He never disputed the principle of the inviolability of American ships on the high seas; but the Admiralty maintained that some of these men are officers in the German Army and are now receiving officers' pay.

I think that that is probably true.

Nevertheless, the Admiralty had bungled the case badly and Sir Edward simply rode over them.

They have a fine quarrel among themselves and we got all we wanted and asked for.
Of course, I can't make out the Germans but I am afraid some huge deviltry is yet coming.

When the English say that the Germans must give up their militarism, I doubt if the Germans yet know what they mean.