Robert Lansing to Woodrow Wilson

You will recollect that at the last Cabinet meeting the question was brought up of issuing regulations governing the departure from the United States during the war of aliens, except enemy aliens, and that Secretaries Baker and Daniels disclaimed any knowledge of the matter. Inasmuch as I shall be unable to be present at the Cabinet meeting tomorrow, I enclose a copy of a letter from Mr. Baker, dated October 22nd, saying that the War Department is vitally interested in this subject and making certain recommendations in regard to the regulations. In a letter, dated October 17th, a copy of which is enclosed, the Secretary of the Navy informed me that it seemed wise to the Navy that all aliens desiring to depart from the United States should undergo a preliminary examination and suggested that regulations should be prepared on the subject. I also append copies of letters from the officers in charge of the Military Intelligence service and of the Office of Naval Intelligence in regard to these regulations. I attach also a summary of the proposed regulations and drafts of the regulations themselves.

If the regulations meet with general approval their administration could be undertaken by the Bureau of Citizenship of this Department, which being conversant with passport matters seems to be well equipped for this new work, except that a slight increase in personnel will be necessary.

With assurances of respect, etc., I am, my dear Mr. President,