The torpedoing of an American liner, resulting in what the Telegraph reports describe as “the murder of over forty non-combatants” is hardly likely to improve the situation between Germany and the USA. Neither will “the knowledge that the German Government is holding Mr. Gerard {the American Ambassador in Berlin} and his staff as hostages pending the departure of Count Bernstorff” {the German Ambassador in Washington} (page 7). You almost get the feeling that Germany was resigned to going to war with the USA sooner or later so was perfectly prepared to take actions which would bring that day closer.