Statement by Count von Bernstorff, German Ambassador at Washington, Sept. 23.
It would seem from certain published reports that the destruction of this grand old edifice was the result of malice or envy. This is ridiculous. All that I have to say on this matter is that I am positive that the attack on the cathedral at Rheims was not willful.
For my part, I feel much more for the thousands of men who have sacrificed their lives, although I regret as much as any man the destruction of such a beautiful work of art.
"SPARE THE CATHEDRAL."
German Government Disclaimer Issued by Count von Bernstorff, Washington, Sept. 23.
The German Government states officially in contradiction of the report made by the Havas Agency that German artillery purposely destroyed important buildings at Rheims, that, on the contrary, orders were given to spare the cathedral by all means.
THE FRENCH ARE BLAMED
Official German Dispatch from Berlin, Received in Amsterdam, Sept. 23.