AN APPEAL TO CONGRESS.

Hokitika Guardian, 27 February 1917, Page 2

AN APPEAL TO CONGRESS.

For Power anti Authority.

Statemeni by Mr Wilson

(Anstraiian &N Z. Cable Association)

(Received Feb 27, »t 12.30 p,m.) Washington, Feb 26

President Wilson tecited the circumstances cf the Honstonic and Lyman Law as evidence of German determination to disregard the rules of humidity and intrrnaticnal law. He pointed cut how American Commerce had suffered.

“ Oar commerce is eufferirg, rather in apprehension than in fact, rather because so many of our ships are timidly keeping to tlieir borne portP| than because Ammcan ships have been sank.”

The situation at present is substantially the sumo us when he addressed Congress last, except tor this tying np of American Commerce. , An overt act, however, had not occurred, but the expressions of purpose ou Germany’s part have given ground for the impression that if an overt act is avoided, it was because the German submarine commanders acted with unexpected discretion and restraint’’

The situation was fought with tbe gravest dangers and possibilities, and the necessity for definite action may come at acy time. Therefore, as Congress is about to expire be (Mr Wilson) asked for full authoiity and power frem Congress Co deal with the situation, whatever way was necessary, with the purpose of the lives and commerce of the American people.