File No. 812.00/2912.
The Acting Secretary of State to the American Ambassador.
Washington, February 26, 1912—11 p.m.
Consul at Ciudad Juárez advises Department of a communication from General Emilio Campa to notify all foreigners to seek a place of safety as his command will attack the city without delay. Immediately bring this matter to attention of both President Madero and Foreign Office. Refer to the matter in Department’s February 26, 6 p.m., and say, with all possible seriousness and earnestness, as under express directions from the President, that it is absolutely necessary to prevent firing into American territory at El Paso; otherwise consequences which it is to the best interest of both countries to avoid will almost surely follow. Urge immediate telegraphic action by the Mexican Government. Renew suggestion that if Juárez is inadequately defended by Federal troops the Mexican Government may, in view of the peculiar situation existing and the possible eventualities, deem it best either that such troops shall make such defense as they contemplate outside of Juárez, and in a place that would not threaten the lives and property of American citizens on American territory, or possibly withdraw without making defense in immediate neighborhood.