On the first of February we intend to begin
submarine warfare unrestricted. In spite of this, it is our intention to
endeavor to keep neutral the
If this attempt is not successful, we propose
an alliance on the following basis with
You are instructed to
inform the President of Mexico of the above in the greatest confidence as soon
as it is certain that there will be an outbreak of war with the United States
and suggest that the President of Mexico, on his own initiative, should
communicate with Japan suggesting adherence at once to this plan; at the same
time, offer to mediate between Germany and Japan.
Please call to the attention of the President
of Mexico that the employment of ruthless submarine warfare now promises to
compel
Zimmerman
(Secretary of State)