US Secretary of State Cordell Hull meets with President Franklin Roosevelt about Japan's bombing of USS Panay

The transcript describes the Secretary's responsibilities, including counseling patients and conferring with the President. At the White House, he receives a solemn paper from Mr. Roosevelt. The Mikado sends a message demanding full reparation, a complete apology, and guarantees against future indiscriminate bombings. The transcript concludes with a focus on ensuring the safety of American gunboats.

What guarantees are being requested in the communication?

What is the significance of the American gunboats mentioned in the text?