William Taft actually said...

The Navy Department has no objection to the proposed salvage operations, but the Department of State holds the view that these wrecks are public property of the United States, which may be alienated only by an act of Congress or by a convention having the force of law.

08/20/1911

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More William Taft Quotes

"We are a great power in the world, and we may be, and hope we are, a great power for usefulness."
"I am glad to be here, if, by being here and saying so, I can convince you that the so-called chasm between you and people who seem for the time to be more fortunate is not a chasm."
"I know him by what he has done."
"I am glad to come here and to testify by my presence as to my sympathy with the great work of Dr. Klopsch in this mission."

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