None of the ships engaged in trade will be taken over, except in case of vital necessity. They would all be taken in that case.
A board of navy officers already is dealing with the merchant marine question, and will cooperate with the shipping board in whatever is done. Some ships may be diverted under charter to supply the fighting fleets or scout patrols, if necessary, but because of the fact that it is believed the major ships of the navy would not be actively engaged, it is improbable that a great supply line will be set up.
WOULD CO-CONSTRUCTION
AND SKY-WOKK
Navy officials were disturbed by press reports of a strike in the Curtiss Aeroplane Company's factory, with which the government has placed large orders. Tomorrow a conference of the various aeronautical organizations will be held at the War Department to discuss means of hastening air production, and the situation at the Curtiss plant may be taken up then. The President has power to take over the establishment if necessary. A joint army and navy board reported today that, in its opinion, the development of the air services of both military arms of the government should be coordinated and consolidated to a large extent.
Orders to enroll women for nurse work in time of war as a part of the naval reserve forces were sent out today to commandants of naval districts and recruiting officers. Details for the enlistment of women as clerks, typists, radio telephones, and such occupations already have been completed. 