File No. 812.00/4091.

The American Consul at Chihuahua to the Secretary of State.

[Telegrams.—Paraphrases.]

Headquarters sought my opinion as to proclamation referred to in my May 29, noon. I told them the document was extremely vicious and would be taken as an invitation to violence, and in the United States would be taken as a threat against Americans unprecedented among civilized peoples. In consequence of my representations the proclamation will be issued in greatly modified form. At interview mentioned safe conduct was promised for Americans. I am, however, to-day making additional representations as per Department’s May 30, 3 p.m. Much bitterness among rebels toward Americans because they claim that if the laws relating to introduction of munitions of war had not been executed they would have been victorious. Situation somewhat better, however.

Letcher.