The Reply proceeds to assert that the ' Lusitania's •
guns were concealed beneath the deck. It also states that the British Admiralty advised merchantmen to use neutral flags and to try to ram German submarines. Consequently the German commanders are unable "to observe the customary regulations of prize law which they had before always followed." Finally, it is declared that the 'Lusitania' was carrying Canadian troops and five thousand four hundred cases of ammunition. In fine, the Cunard Company used American passengers as a screen, and thus violated American law, which forbids passengers to travel in ammunition ships. The Cunard Company was, therefore, "wantonly guilty" There can be no doubt—this is the last and most astounding statement in the rigmarole—that the rapid sinking of the 'Lusitania' was caused by the explosion of ammunition. Otherwise the passengers would probably have been saved. The Reply has aroused indignation and disgust throughout the United States. President Wilson's reply has not been published at the time we write. But it is not thought by any one that he will consent to enter upon long and futile discus- sions with Germany, to be followed perhaps (according to what seems to be the German plan) by more long and futile discussions at the Hague.
Previous page
