I’ve attached a scan of the Robert Lansing letter showing the Kuntz spelling and the mailing address used by Kunz/Kuntz at Tiffany’s (405 Fifth Avenue). I see a number of web references that use the Kuntz spelling, though don’t doubt that Kunz was George’s correct and preferred spelling (virtually all independently published accounts of the early 20th century follow the convention of Kunz). Perhaps Lansing’s use of Kuntz on his reply letter was an artifact of dictation and transcribed phonetically.

Kay’s very helpful comments on the itinerary of Kunz indicate that my inferences on George’s presence on the Lusitania were undoubtedly wrong, and his letter to the State department must have simply been to voice an opinion on the subject, not to reflect a personal observation.

Ten years or so ago I scoured many of the available resources regarding the January 30th voyage in an effort to confirm/refute Kunz’ presence on the Lusitania (including Lusitania expert Eric Sauder), though to no avail. Now the answer appears to be that, no, Kunz did not personally witness the “abuse of neutral flags” as I had imagined.

Thanks so much to Kay and her helpful information on the Kunz itinerary in the days/weeks following that voyage. Just another example of the tremendous benefits that The E-Sylum brings to us all.

Robert Lansing’s 1915 letter to George F. Kunz should have been addressed to 401 Fifth Avenue, not 405 Fifth Avenue. Tiffany & Co.’s official address was 401 Fifth Avenue in the time period 1905 – 1940, located at the SE corner of 37th Street.

Tiffany & Co. moved to its present location (727 Fifth Avenue @ 57th Street) in 1940, vacating 401 Fifth Avenue; although 401 still stands with other owners and uses.