THE WORLD WAR: PERIOD OF AMERICAN NEUTRALITY 349



the message is a long one but I think the matter is of sufficient im-
portance to advise our Ambassadors in detail as to the exact situation.
Furthermore, I think we should have in mind that this will go on the
files of the Department and it may be necessary some day to give it
publicity.
  As soon as you have passed upon it will you kindly return it in order
that it may be enciphered and sent?
      Faithfully yours,
                                                ROBERT LANSING

763.72/2480:.
             President Wilson to the Secretary of State

                                   WASHINGTON, 8 March, 1916.
  MY DEAR MR. SECRETARY: Thank you for letting me see this.37 I
have suggested only one change (on page 6 38) in order that you might
not even seem to admit any excuse for Zwiedinek's misrepresentation
of your position.
      Faithfully Yours,
                                                         W.W.

763.72/2522
            The Secretary of State to President Wilson

                                   WASHINGTON, March 30, 1916.
  MY DEAR MR. PRESIDENT: I send you herewith the translation of
an identical memorandum which was received a few days ago by
this Government from the Ambassadors of France, Great Britain,
Italy and Russia, and the Minister of Belgium.39 The memorandum
is in reply to the letter of January 18 40 in reference to the disarma-
ment of merchant vessels.
  I also enclose a proposed answer to be sent to each of the Am-
bassadors and the Minister. I would be obliged if you would let me
know if this answer ineets with your approval. I assume that it will
close the incident.
      Faithfully yours,
                                                ROBERT LANSING

 O Telegram referred to supra.
 ' Insertion of the words "never said anything of the kind but had";
for con-
text, see Foreign Relations, 1916, supp., p. 204, par. 6.
   Ibid., pp. 211, 213.
   Ibid., p. 146.