Wilson's Ultimatum to the Kaiser
Speaks for Democratic Nations
Rejects Pope's Peace Proposal
WASHINGTON — President Wilson
has expressed the convictions of the
democratic nations of the world in rejecting the peace proposal of Pope Benedict on the ground that the present rulers of Germany cannot be trusted.
The president's note, which is certain
to play an important part in history,
was made public this morning. It
follows:
"August 27, 1917.
"To His Holiness, Benedictus XV,
Pope:
"In acknowledgement of the communication of your holiness to the
belligerent peoples, dated August 1,
1917, the president of the United
States requests me to transmit the
following reply;
"Every heart that has not been
blinded and hardened by this terrible
war must be touched by this moving
appeal of his holiness, the pope, must
feel the dignity and force of the
honor which
mane and generous motives
prompted it, and must fervently wish
that we might take the path of peace
he so persuasively points out. But it
would be folly to take it if it does not
in fact lead to the goal he proposes.
Our response must be based upon the
stern facts and upon nothing else,
is not a mere cessation of arms he
desires; it is a stable and enduring
peace.
This agony must not be gone
peace.
through with again, and it must be a
matter of very sober judgment what
will insure us against it. 