The book's account places Wilson's response during his 1916 election campaign, when he wanted to avoid a public dispute over U-53. It also connects his restraint with hopes of resuming peace mediation after the election. In private, he warned the German ambassador that sinking neutral ships off the American coast could not be justified to the public. He asked that the operation not be repeated.
Notable Point · 1:14:51-1:15:41
Wilson's private warning after U-53's coastal raid
The book contrasts Wilson's restrained public response with a private warning against further submarine attacks near the American coast.