File No. 837.00/578.

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[Extract]
No. 173.]

Sir: Referring to previous correspondence concerning the “Independent Colored Party” I have the honor to transmit herewith a copy and translation of a telegram received by me this morning from certain members of that party, complaining of the action of the Cuban authorities in breaking up a meeting at Cruces in Santa Clara Province.

This continual agitation of the “Independientes de Color” carries with it an element of considerable danger to public order, for while only a small proportion of the negro population is affected by the Estenoz movement his followers are sufficiently numerous to form the nucleus of a revolt that in any case, even were the Government able to cope with it, would be extremely harmful, and if ably led and financed by other discontented elements might result in a repetition of the events of 1906.

I have [etc.]

A. M. Beaupré.
[Inclosure.—Translation.]

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Mr. Beaupré:, Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States to the Republic of Cuba, Habana: Pray tell President Taft to accept our most solemn protest in the name of the Independent Colored Party against outrages against our persons and our rights by armed forces of the Cuban Government. We protest to civilization and ask for guaranties of our lives, families, interests, rights and liberties. Weary of injustice and abuses, we look to the protection of your Government under article three of the Platt Amendment.

Hipólito Aranguren
(et al.)