File No. 812.00/1333A.
The Acting Secretary of State to the American Ambassador.
Washington, April 14, 1911.
During the fight yesterday at Agua Prieta thousands of bullets struck houses in Douglas, Ariz., jeopardizing the life and property of American citizens engaged in their peaceful pursuits. Two citizens were killed and 11 wounded, including some children. The fighting took place within 10 feet of the boundary, and it is anticipated that there may be more of it at any time.
Inform the Mexican Government immediately that the President feels that urgent and express instructions should be given in order to prevent further jeopardy of American life and property on American territory.
This is the third time that regularly organized Mexican troops have fired into American territory, thereby threatening human life, and you will most earnestly point out that, while the difficulties under which the Mexican Government is acting are appreciated by the President, he would be compelled in self-defense, so to speak, of American lives on American soil, should such incidents recur, to take action which he would desire to avoid by the use of every proper effort.