ANXIOUS FOR ONE MORE GOOD WORD.

Auckland Star, Volume XLVIII, Issue 34, 8 February 1917, Page 5

ANXIOUS FOR ONE MORE GOOD WORD.

CORRESPONDENT'S INTERPRETATION OF. AMERICAN SENTIMENT. _TtAYtNO FOR PEACE WITH HONOUR* LONDON, February 7. The "Washington correspondent of the "Cologne Gazette," Mr. George Barthelme, claims that he has been requested by high authorities to convey to the German people the assurance of the Government that Mr. Wilson's j attitude does not indicate any warlike desire. America construes Mr. ' Wilson's reference to any "overt act," and the possibility of a further appeal, to Congress, as —firstly, an expression of confidence that some way out will lie found, and, secondly, as not containing a threat of war. The general opinion, the correspondent says, is that the President could So nothing but sever relations to make good his former Note. He continues: •There is now an opportunity for Germany to provide an opening. The first essential for the maintenance of friendly relations is to refrain from the destruction of American ships and to emphasise that no unrestricted submarine war is contemplated, only a blockade within the narrowest limits compatible with the necessary aims. The greatest care must be taken, and it will be necessary not to interfere with innocent American commerce. Every precaution must be taken to limit the destruction of neutral ships carrying contraband, and in the case of enemy vessels to ships and cargo, safeguarding, wherever possible, the lives of passengers and crews in accordance with recent practice. .. "Germany should then propose a joint commission for negotiation as to f_e code governing the blockade and submarine warfare. Naturally such an ' offer would involve delay, and specially mark the ancient friendship between ] both countries. America and Germany could then consider the prospect ot ' calling a conference of Powers, the possibilities of which Lave been closed by _ssty action. Only a very small circle of Americans is clamouring for I hostilities. The huge majority, consisting of men of the highest standing, noblest character, and loftiest ideals, have thorough goodwill for Germany. and are praying for peace with honour. The country ia anxiously awaiting one more good .word."