From under the curtain of official
silence, drawn closely over every
move, came various indications as in
dex fingers pointing toward the prob
able course of the United States. It
was undisputed the government would
not permit Germany's announcement
to stand without challenge. But
whether President Wilson's answer
will be solemn warning of a break
of diplomatic relations if Germany's
campaign of ruthlessness is carried
Into execution or actually a severance
of relations without further waiting,
was undisclosed.
Secretary Lansing began by denying
himself to all callers. Notwithstanding
it was the regular day for receiving
representatives of foreign governments
at the state department, he declined
to receive such persons as the Brit
ish and Japanese ambassadors and
they were turned over to subordinate
officials.
It became known then that Mr.
Lansing was engaged at work "on
something for the President."
Wilson and Lansing Confer.
The secretary went to the White
House, taking with him some docu
ments, and instead of going to the
executive offices went to the man
sion where he and the President con
ferred undisturbed for more than an
hour.
When he left the President, Mr.
Lansing refused absolutely to talk of
the situation or to answer any in
quiries.
May Go to Congress.
On a previous occasion the Pres
ident told members of the committee
that before breaking relations with
any country he would inform them.
Senator Hitchcock, ranking Democrat
ic member, was at the White House,
but was given no information.
The usual cabinet meeting will be
held when for the first time all the
the members may know definitely of
the President's attitude.
It was stated the President had
made no arrangements for going be
fore Congress, but it was considered
possible he might decide to adopt
this step at any time.
