17 FEBRUARY 1917, Page 2

In acknowledging the official notification of the rupture of diplo-

matic relations between the United States and Germany Mr. Balfour has very properly taken occasionte-eonvey to Mr. Page, the Ameri- can Ambassador, the deep appreciation of the 'British- Uoveintant of the care and devotion shown:. by the United States' Government in taking charge of British interests in Gerinany since-the outbreak of the war. His Majesty's Government, Mr. Balfour continues, 'are especially grateful for all that has been done • bythe United States Diplomatic and Consular officers in Germany for -British -prisoners of sear. 'These efforts, moreover, haVe not been achieved without much labour and, in some cases, in the lac:- of strenuous German -opposition: -The parents, relations, and frieAs of -British prisoners of war will cordially echo every _word of *bat Ms. Balfour says in acknowledging these invaluable services,. and in conveying the profound gratitude and deep indebtedness - of 'the British Government to Mr. Gerard and his staff. The charge" of British interests in Germany has now been transferred to.- the Netherlands Minister at Berlin.