Woodrow Wilson to Washington L. Capp

I fear that you have learned rather too informally of the new and exceedingly important duty to which I have taken the liberty to assign you, and if that has caused you any inconvenience I beg to apologize.
I am sure that you will realize the necessity that existed for prompt and definite action, leaving no elements of conjecture in the settlement, and I want you to know that my selection of yourself for the task which it has been necessary that General Goethals should lay down was based upon a very great confidence in your character and ability. I beg that you will accept the assignment as an evidence of my friendship and trust.
I have no doubt that General Goethals will be very glad to confer with you about every phase of the business that will need your attention, and I have this to suggest: I am told that General Goethals has brought into association with him some very energetic and capable men and it may be that you will find it to your advantage to retain them at your own side in this undertaking into which you have been so suddenly thrust.

Cordially and sincerely yours,