I have at the same time the honor of bringing to your Excellency's
knowledge that the German authorities will detain French merchant
vessels in German ports, but will release them if within
forty-eight hours complete reciprocity is assured.
My diplomatic mission having terminated, all that remains for me to
do is to request your Excellency to provide me with my passports
and take whatever measures your Excellency may deem necessary to
effect my return to Germany with the personnel of the embassy and
of the Bavarian Legation and the Consulate General of Germany at
Paris.
With sentiments of my highest consideration.
SCHOEN.
* * * * *
Is it necessary, gentlemen, that I should call attention to the
absurdity of the pretexts brought forward as grievances? Never at any
time has any French aviator gone into Belgium; no French aviator has
committed an act of hostility either in Bavaria or any other part of
Germany. European public opinion has already done justice to these
miserable inventions.
We immediately took all needed steps against this attack, which violates
all laws of equity and rules of public law. The carrying out of these is
progressing with thorough system and absolute calm.
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