The Sentinel=record., 1917-02-03

Washington, Feb 2-All administra tion officials are gratified and sur prised at what they interpret as practically unanimous opinion of the country on the situation so uneXpect- edly precipitated by Germanys sub marine warfare declaration Not only nearly all of the large metropolitan newspapers are declared to accept as a basic principle tho belief that Amer. ica's interests and honor have been attacked.
 One official said today that this viewpoint which had been awaited be fore any announcement has had great effect on the formation of a decision. The administration is known to feel that while the German an- nouncement iustifiee any action that may be demed pest, t>a administra- tion could not outdo public opinion.
 Europe sailings of all ships flyng the American flag should be post poned. according to the opinion of state department, Secretary Lansing in annuncmg that message to this effect had been sent to the Interna- tional Mercantile Marine in regard to the sailing of the American steamer St Louis for England tomorrow, was emphatic in saying no orders had ben issued against her sail, but that the opinion of the department had been given that it would be wiser to n of ha g,, the broader issue of the controversy with Germany
 The state department feels that the sailing of vessels. the departure of Americans from Germany and the safe passage of other Americans across the Atlantic should for the mo ment be left entirely to the discretion of the individuals concerned on their personal judgement of the situation. Wherever possible. however, is earnestly desired that no risks be taken until the formal decision of the country on the whole issue has been announced All the smaller collateral incidents relating to that larger issue will then fall into line No long de- lay is expected.
 Germany is understood by officials here Co be in the dark as to America s probable position Not till the Amer. ican course has been formally an. rounced at home f is understood, will Germany receive her answer. No hints, intimations or indirect messages will be conveyed. Many cablegrams have been exchanged between the state department and Ambassador Gerard since the German pronounce ment, it is stated but none of the cially is the ambassador being fully in- formed as to the state of public opin- ion in this country
 American diplomats abroad are un- der standing instructions it developed today, to warn Americans at any time that il may be necessary for them to leave a belligerent country On that ground, il is understood, the state de- partment will not issue a formal no tice through Ambassador Gerard for lN G the situation has become utterly hope less. Until then the ambassador is expected 10 keep them fully enough informed of developments and. per haps to add his personal opinion to guide them to wise decision There are estimated now to be about 5000 American citizens in Germany, of whom about three-quarters are former Germans.
 A similar situation prevails with Americans in France and other en- tente and neutral European countries. The situation will be kept as fully be fore them as possible in order Lhat they may base their judgement l he facts Then. when final decision is made ny this country as to the great