BERLIN via Amsterdam, Feb. 18, 1915 (UP) - While the complete text of the German reply to the American note protesting against the contemplated submarine blockade is withheld pending its being made public in Washington, summaries printed here make it evident Germany stands firmly by her original intention.
Great Britain having refused to lift her food embargo, Germany takes the position that she is well within her rights in ordering the sinking of British merchantmen. It is also explained that in giving 14 days previous notice of the contemplated blockade, Germany has done all that could reasonably be expected of her.
The note is said to be couched in terms of sincere friendship. It points out, however, that the allies have been buying unlimited quantities of supplies in America, and that not only conditional but absolute contraband is freely being exported from the United States to England and France. The government explains that it is most anxious there should be no misunderstanding or disagreement with the United States, and pays high tribute to the extremely friendly relations at present existing.
The charge is made that England's methods of warfare are in direct contradiction of the principles of international law, and the claim is made that at all times Germany has strictly adhered to the principles of the declaration of London.
England, it is charged, has contemptuously defied all neutrals, and her action in insisting on the right of search and detention is said to show that she has no respect for the rights of neutrals generally.
The German government renews its previous recommendation that American ships avoid the war zone around England, inasmuch as it has been properly proclaimed, and as Germany has demonstrated that the British government has misused neutral flags on its shipping.
