300.115(39)/310: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in the United Kingdom (Johnson)
1609. Lykes Bros. Steamship Co., Inc. advise that steamship Winston Salem arrived Downs November 28; was subsequently released and proceeded to Rotterdam where it arrived December 11; that 2,782 bales of cotton were seized by British authorities who are apparently requiring vessel to return the cotton either to London or some other British port. Company advises it has no information regarding reasons for seizure. This Government is desirous of getting all American vessels out of the combat area as soon as possible. Therefore, please endeavor ascertain reasons for the seizure of the cotton in question and arrange to release vessel from obligation to return the cotton to England allowing cotton to remain in custody of company’s Rotterdam representatives pending determination as to final disposition thereof. Report fully.