THE LANSING PAPERS, 1914-1920, VOLUME I



of belligerents to buy our arms. (See the last sentence on the first.
page.10)
  In the next place we call attention to the distinction between the
rules applicable to the purchase of ammunition and the rules appli-
cable to ships carrying coal.
  We also take occasion to assert that these principles have been
enforced by this nation with impartiality.
  We are wondering whether it -might not be well, in view of the
criticism we have received, to ask the German Embassy to permit
us to give to the public their protest and our answer. It will meet,
the criticism which has been directed against us by some who seem
to be ignorant of the rules of international law.
  Please let me know whether you have any changes to suggest in
the phraseology, and also whether it is worth while to try to secure
publication.
  With assurances [etc.]                          W. J. BRYAN

763.72111 Em 1/11k
            President Wilson to the Secretary of State

                               WASHINGTON, 26 December, 1914.
  MY DEAR MR. SECRETARY: I think the enclosed reply 11 to the mem-
orandum of the German Government both sound and conclusive, and
I sincerely hope that you will be able, as you suggest, to obtain the
consent of the German Government to the publication of tis cor-
respondence.
      Cordially and faithfully Yours,
                                              WOODROW WILSON

763.72111/1403
            President Wilson to the Secretary of State

                                 WASHINGTON, January 7, 1915.
  MY DEAR MR. SECRETARY: I hope that when the opportunity offers
you will be kind enough to say to the House Committee on Foreign
Affairs that I entirely agree with your judgment that "any action
looking to interference with the right of belligerents to buy arms
here" taken at the present time "would be construed as an unneutral
act." My opinion is very clear, as I think the opinion of everyone
must be who is fully cognizant of all the implications that would
attend such action.
      Cordially and faithfully yours,
                                              WOODROW WILSON

 '0Foreign Relations, 1914, supp., p. 647, last sentence.
 u Ibid., p. 647.



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