Naval History and Heritage Command

Admiral William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations, to Vice Admiral William S. Sims, Commander, United States Naval Forces Operating in European Waters

Chronological Copy.

Cablegram Received  December 28th, 1917.

Origin Opnav, Washington                     Ser. No. 1861

1861. There are about ten sailing vessels lying in Italian port which it is the intention of the Shipping Board to take over and operate in the South American trade. When shipping Board has completed arrangement plan with Rear Admiral Niblack1 to give them an escort or tow to Gibraltar and from there a safe offing in the Atlantic.

Benson.

4:25 A.M.