"Your Excellency, good morning!" William Jennings Bryan greeted with a beaming smile.
Although the United States harbored aspirations of one day becoming a world power, it was evident that there remained a considerable distance to traverse. In contrast, the German Empire appeared to be but a step away from global dominance. Thus, even when faced with merely an ambassador from the German Empire, Secretary Bryan dared not adopt an air of superiority.
"Good day, Secretary. I apologize for intruding so early," Ambassador Glass replied coolly. His words of apology were belied by the absence of any contrition on his face.
"Ambassador, it is for matters of state, so I completely understand. May I inquire what brings you to see me today?" Bryan asked, sensing the ambassador's demeanor might portend ill intentions.
"Secretary, I formally represent the German Empire to express our protest. Your nation's violation of neutrality by supplying weapons and war materials to England and France has severely harmed the interests of the German Empire. We cannot allow this situation to persist. Therefore, we demand that the United States immediately cease all deliveries of arms and supplies to the Allied powers to prevent further damage to our bilateral relations!" Glass declared.
Bryan's countenance darkened at the ambassador's words. He was fully aware of America's support for the Allies; indeed, it was a strategy devised by the U.S. Cabinet to weaken Germany's strength in preparation for future competition for global supremacy. Previously, the Germans had turned a blind eye to these actions, but now they had boldly acknowledged them. It was evident that following their victory on the Eastern Front, Germany had grown emboldened and no longer feared an American alliance with the Allies.
"Damn it, it seems the balance has been disrupted. The Germans now believe they hold the upper hand and regard us with disdain," Bryan mused, realizing the implications for the United States.
"Ambassador, I believe there has been a misunderstanding. The United States has steadfastly adhered to its neutral stance. We have not violated neutrality in any manner," Bryan firmly denied the ambassador's accusations.
Admitting to such actions would severely damage America's reputation and immediately thrust U.S.-German relations into hostility. Though the Americans had been attempting to undermine Germany, they dared not confront them openly, at least not yet.
"Secretary, if this is indeed a misunderstanding, then that would be ideal. However, the German Empire will not tolerate misunderstandings evolving into reality. We will take appropriate measures. If it is proven that this is not a misunderstanding but a reality, then none of us will emerge with dignity intact," Glass warned.
"Rest assured, Ambassador. The United States will uphold its neutrality. We have always regarded Germany as our friend and will ensure our relations remain intact," Bryan assured him.
After exchanging a series of meaningless pleasantries, Ambassador Glass took his leave.
As the office door closed, Bryan's expression soured considerably.
"Damn those Germans! Do they truly think they have won the war and become the world's overlords?" he fumed.
Having vented his anger, Bryan called for his secretary.
"Prepare the car; I must go to the White House. Also, inform the other cabinet ministers still in Washington to gather there," he instructed.
"Yes, Secretary," the secretary nodded, promptly setting about his task.
Ten minutes later, Bryan was en route to the White House, with other cabinet ministers likewise hurrying to join him. They understood that something significant was afoot.
Half an hour later, President Woodrow Wilson, Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan, and several cabinet ministers convened in the White House conference room, where they quickly lit up cigars, shrouding the room in smoke.
"Secretary, what on earth has transpired?" President Wilson inquired, still perplexed by the unfolding events.
"Mr. President, esteemed ministers, the Germans are aware of our covert support for the Allies," Bryan reported.
"Weren't they already aware of this?" Vice President Marshall responded, astonished. Given Germany's intelligence capabilities, it was nearly impossible for the U.S. to keep such information concealed.
President Wilson furrowed his brow.
"Yes, the Germans have indeed known all along, but they pretended otherwise until now. The issue at hand is that the German ambassador has officially warned us, demanding that we cease all supplies of weapons and war materials to the Allies, or face repercussions! Clearly, the Germans have fundamentally altered their stance," Bryan explained.
"What? The Germans dare to issue us a warning? Do they not realize that such actions could very well force us into the arms of the Allies? That would bring them no benefit at all," exclaimed Treasury Secretary McAdoo.
It is crucial to note that, despite the war having erupted only six months prior, America's sales of various war materials to the Allies had already accelerated its economic growth. Any disruption to that would have severe repercussions for the U.S. economy.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it appears we are once again faced with a difficult choice. The Germans have laid their cards on the table; they wish for us to cease our covert machinations. What should we do?" President Wilson sighed. If possible, he hoped the war would prolong itself, as the longer it continued, the more benefits America could reap. When the Old World lay in tatters, the United States could seize the opportunity to claim global leadership.