Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, The Lansing Papers, 1914–1920, Volume I

763.72/3236: Telegram

The Ambassador in Italy (Page) to the Secretary of State

Rome, February 6, 1917—1 p. m.
[Received 6 p. m.]

827. My telegram 800.⁹⁴ From the same source I learned day before President’s move severing relations a message to President was prepared by Vatican declaring in effect Germany’s attitude not unexpected in “well balanced circles” since England is attempting Germany’s political destruction, adding that President holds in his hands decision of peace or war in his power to forbid exportation from America of money, food, munitions. Memorandum declares this conformable to perfect neutrality and adds otherwise war will proceed more frightfully than ever, but if President would embargo exports peace will certainly ensue to immortal glory America and benefit of humanity. Intention was to request me to forward memorandum as direct message.

Nelson Page

94. Foreign Relations, 1917, supp. 1, p. 22.