Bisbee daily review., 1916-12-22

"I have learned from several quar- , ters that a wrong impression was made by the statement which l made this morning and | wish to correct i that impression.
 My intention was to suggest the very direct and necessary interests which this country, as one of the neu- tral nations has in the possible terms which the belligerents may have in mind and l do not intend to intimate that the government was considering any, change in it's policy of neutrality which it has constantly pursued in the face of constantly increasing difficul- ties.
 '1 regret that my words were open to any other construction as I now realize that they were. l think that the whole tone and language of the note to the belligerents show the pur- pose without comment on my part. It is needless to say that I am unre- servedly in support of that purpose and hope to see it accepted"
 At the White House no comment whatever was made on the note itself or on the two statements by Secretary Lansing.
 The German embassy gave no out ward evidence of concern over the sudden developments.
 Entente diplomats. at first at an ut ter loss how to handle the unexpected situation. became convinced that clearer understanding of the necessi- ties and purposes of the United States proved that their fear of . move fav- orable to Germany was not contem- plated, and that this country would not try to force peace on Europe. Their view grew that the United States feared that unless the peace proposals go through now, a period of ruthlessness and retaliation may set in on both sides, which may inevi- tably force this country into action.
 Allies Friendly
 It is indicated. therefore. that the allied diplomats will advise their gov ernments to view the note in friend V spirit and go as far as possible to- wards meeting the Washington gov ernments wishes.
 Secretary Lansing in calling in the diplomatic representatives of the be- ligerents made it clear to them indi- vidually that the United States ex- pected the replies of their govern nents to be absolutely frank in all de tails. The idea was gathered that the United States was looking forward forming itself into a clearing house t least for views and probably for terms.
 The general understanding was that he purpose of this action was to en- able the envoys to communicate to their own governments the underly irg purpose of the Presidents action Ii this time.
 Keep Terms Secret
 Further, the opinion prevailed that the United States wished to be fully HUI lltI Ol dli ttAh h4o. NIlOSC -elating to territory. It is felt in va -ious diplomatic quarters that while statements regarding terms. especial ly those concerning territory, might readily be passed along by the United States. they must not. if the negotia- ions are to have the slightest chance of success, be conveyed to the public generally Should definite territorial terms be made public it is feared cer tain section of public opinion in the countries affected would foment addi- tional endorsements.
 The world diplomatic corps tenn porarily moved to Washington during the day because of the Presidents note. Secretary Lansing's statement, and the anxiety of the diplomatic corps to understand the American pos sibility. By noon all the ranking dip lomats from the belligerent countries had called at the state department, necessitating for the first time in months, extreme care to prevent meetings between representatives from hostile states. The Presidents note was declared today to be hit around the circle" without intention of favor or conforming either bellig- erent, group to the prejudice of the other. Nevertheless. certain facts are cited as indicating beyond doubt where the chief tension lies at pres ent in the relations Of this country as