Thomas Watt Gregory to Woodrow Wilson

I acknowledge receipt of yours of June 4th enclosing one of the identification cards and application blank for enrollment in the American Protective League. You state that your attention has been called to this association and that it seems to you it would be dangerous to have such an organization operating in the United States, and you ask if there is any way in which we could stop it.
On June 2d I received a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury in regard to this League in which the Secretary stated he was sending a copy to you.
Briefly stated, the American Protective League is a patriotic organization, composed of from eighty to one hundred thousand members, with branches in almost six hundred cities and towns, was organized with my approval and encouragement, and has been tremendously helpful in the work of the Bureau of Investigation of the Department of Justice. It has no official status and claims none. Its members serve without the slightest expense to the Government, and not a single officer or member receives compensation from any source.
I herewith enclose copy of my reply to Secretary McAdoo's letter and sincerely hope that in the midst of your many burdens you may find time to read this complete statement of the organization, purposes, work and character of the American Protective League. On reading this I am sure you will agree with me that it should be encouraged and that its work is not subject to any real criticism.
I herewith return the two enclosures which accompanied your letter.The President,The White House.Enc.