Straus post-haste to Washington, and as a result of what he told
Secretary Bryan instructions were sent to Ambassador Gerard to ascertain
whether the remarks attributed to the Emperor were to be taken as an
indication that the German Government would not be averse to the
exercise of the good offices of the United States in an effort to end
the hostilities in Europe.
The conversation at which the German Ambassador made the statement
occurred at the house of James Speyer, the banker, in New York. Oscar S.
Straus, a member of the Permanent Tribunal of Arbitration at The Hague,
was present. In the course of a discussion of the war in Europe and the
prospects of peace Count von Bernstorff, it is understood, said that,
while he had no advices from the Imperial Government since he had left
Berlin, he recalled that the Imperial Chancellor had told him that he
believed Emperor William would be willing to discuss a proposal of peace
through mediation.
With the permission of Count von Bernstorff, Mr. Straus came to
Washington and told Secretary Bryan of what the German Ambassador had
said. On the following day Count von Bernstorff made a trip from New
York to Washington and had an interview with Secretary Bryan.
It has been understood that Mr.
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