W. L. Saunders to Woodrow Wilson

TELEGRAM.1 PO JM 120 NL840am 15thNew York, June 14, 1917.
On my return to New York this morning I conveyed your message to Mr. Franklin and his associates, at a special meeting at India House. They have before them the Goethals Rousseau report on ship protection. They have expressed earnest interest in the matter, stating that they are ready and anxious to do everything practicable to protect merchant ships and cargo. They had, following my conference with them last Monday, submitted this report to expert engineers and marine architects. As soon as the experts have reported, another meeting will be held, at which they will call together all the shipping men in New York, for the purpose of taking definite action. We expect that this meeting will be held within one week. W. L. Saunders