TheCodeBreakers
deciphered cable dispatches 1 [the Zimmermann telegram] and 11
[ordering Eckardt to negotiate at once for the proposed alliance], how the
originals and decodes were kept, and, in particular, whether both
dispatches were kept in the same place." Six days later, it picked up the
clue that Hall had carefully planted: "Various indications suggest that
the treachery was committed in Mexico. The greatest caution is
indicated. Burn all compromising material."
Eckardt mustered impressive details to exculpate himself: "Both
dispatches were deciphered, in accordance with my special instructions,
by [Dr. Arthur von] Magnus [the legation's corpulent secretary]. Both, as
is the case with everything of a politically secret nature, were kept from
the knowledge of the chancery officials. . . . The originals in both cases
were burned by Magnus and the ashes scattered. Both dispatches were
kept in an absolutely secure steel safe, procured especially for the
annaabi.ee 
