File No. 812.00/5662.
The American Consul at Vera Cruz to the Secretary of State.
Vera Cruz, November 27, 1912.
Sir:* * * The actual capture of Diaz at the municipal palace was an act of treachery, pure and simple. The first Federal troops to arrive there showed a white flag and called on Diaz and his men not to shoot, as they were friends and had come to join him, at the same time asking for orders. In view of this he refrained from harming them and as his men came down from the roof of the palace to embrace their friends their guns were taken away from them and Diaz was left helpless and alone. General Beltrán’s men came through and took advantage of the neutral zone, which both commanders had agreed to respect. * * *
People all over the State are murmuring and discontented and are expressing their disapprobation and censure at the conduct of General Beltrán over Diaz, who has probably many times as many adherents as at the time of the taking of Vera Cruz. In fact the whole State seems to have come to be in sympathy with him.
It would not in the least surprise me to see Beltrán himself rise against the Madero Government. He has lost much prestige with the people and the army by the treachery practiced on Diaz and the only way to redeem himself with the people is to join Diaz and help him win out.* * *
The present feeling toward the United States, so far as the State of Vera Cruz and the isthmus country is concerned, continues, to be more friendly, in my opinion and in that of competent judges among the foreigners, than ever before. The conduct of the American Government [Page 871] in its protection of the lives and property of foreigners and natives, and that of Commander Hughes of the Des Moines in particular, is lauded, and expressions of gratitude and approval are heard on all sides.
I am [etc.]