THE LANSING PAPERS, 1914-1920, VOLUME I



701.6711/103i
The Secretary of State to the Courwelor for the Department of State
                            (Lansing)

                                WASHINGTON, September 16, 1914.
  MY DEAR M. LANSING: The President has not indicated his wishes
in the matter of the Turkish Ambassador's interview. I have sug-
gested to him over the phone that in ordinary times it would seem a
reason for immediate recall, but at this time it was wise to make some
allowances rather than run the risk of making the situation more
acute over there.
  We cannot well overlook the matter, and it occurs to me that it
might be well to write him a letter saying that we regret exceedingly
to note from the tone of his letter that he feels justified in violating
the well-established rules universally observed among diplomats-
and that he has unfortunately allowed himself to be irritated by a
very inconsiderable portion of the press of the United States-for it
is impossible that he should have been able to read many of the
large number of papers published in this country. That this Gov-
ernment is recognizing the tension caused by the acute situation in
Europe and is not disposed to deal as strictly with his breach of
etiquette as would seem proper in ordinary times and that if he feels
that he can render his country service by remaining here he will
express in due form his regret at his public utterances, and give
assurance of his intention to conform to those requirements which
are necessary if diplomatic intercourse is to be conducted in that
friendly spirit which the amicable relations of the countries make
proper.
  I simply suggest the above for the consideration of yourself and the
President, in case the latter thinks that something ought to be said
at this time.
      Yours very truly,
                                                   W. J. BRYAN

701.6711/104&
         President Wilson to the Acting Secretary of State

                               WASHINGTON, September 17, 1914.
  MY DEAR Mi. LANSING: I return herewith the extraordinary letter
of the Turkish Ambassador.' I believe that Mr. Bryan before leaving
last evening made some suggestions as to a letter to be sent the

'Ante, p. 68.



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