Thomas Watt Gregory to Woodrow Wilson

In reply to your note of January 16, 1918, concerning information received by you of a concerted plot to destroy American and British shipping in every port, shipyard and at sea on January 22, 1918, I have the honor to advise you that Mr. J. Edward Guelph, the man who sent this piece of information to you, has heretofore come to the attention of the Department on one or two occasions, by offering information of plots of various kinds. Some investigation of him was made in 1915 and again early in 1917, and since the receipt of your letter further inquiries have been made. I quote for your information two telegrams received from the Agent in Charge of the office of the Bureau of Investigation at Los Angeles:
"Replying to your telegram re John Edward Guelph mental condition reported normal except by Williams, probably best acquainted Guelph of persons interviewed who states heavy drinker. Guelph undoubtedly has extensive and intimate knowledge European political conditions. Guelph apparently has no following this vicinity and is not taken seriously by any persons interviewed. Unable see Van Denberg or McDonald both out of city. Dr. Allison close personal friend thinks little weight should be given this. Will make further investigation and can arrange meeting Guelph personally if desired. He called this office few days ago reported minor matters".
"Replying to your telegram Guelph just returned from his home Sierra Madre where had three hours interview he doing practically all the talking. Am satisfied he has no definite information and is suffering from dementia manifesting itself as grossly exaggerated egotist. Dr. Roads accompanied me and heard conversation and agrees my conclusions. Guelph resides cheap rundown summer hotel style fRAM E building surrounded by dilapidated tent houses. He talked continuously to us but adduced no information, facts or conclusions unobtainable by any close student of European and Indian questions. Stated he could not reveal source information concerning destruction shipping No OK (?), but that it came from various people in divers foreign countries and not from anywhere United States. Could not give details as to how destruction was to be effected but wanted change subject this matter mentioned. He believes himself predestined fulfil old biblical prophecy and unite the two royal lines and is given to prophesying himself. I believe this warning is one of his prophecies and has no foundation outside disordered mind trying convince world how great a man he is. Do not consider any reliance whatever be placed his statements."Despite the apparent unreliability of the man who has given the information concerning the plot, it seemed advisable to send telegraphic instructions to agents of this Department at every port to take all reasonable extra precautions to prevent the consummation of any such plot in cooperation with the Collectors of Customs and other interested officials and citizens. These instructions were sent prior to the receipt of the second telegram quoted above.