File No. 300.115/1058
The Ambassador in Great Britain (Page) to the Secretary of State
London, November 2, 1914.
[Received 11:45 p.m.]
[Telegram]
964. Your 433, October 31. Sir Edward Grey promises to give me such a report as you ask on the ship Kroonland at earliest moment possible. Its detention is not a seizure.
Sir Edward informs me that his Government found evidence that the copper on the Italian steamers San Giovanni and Regina d’Italia was destined for belligerent territory. This Government therefore prohibits its delivery and will itself buy it and pay for it. The delay of the steamers was caused by the fact that the Copper was at the bottom of the ships. They have been allowed to proceed under guarantee that the copper will be delivered to British authorities on return voyage.