File No. 837.00/717.
The American Minister to the Secretary of State.
Habana, June 9, 1912.
Disorders in Habana and suburbs have for some days been assuming character of race war. In spite of threats to deal severely with trouble-makers, the authorities are showing weakness. Americans, other foreigners, and many Cubans extremely apprehensive and appeal for sending of a war vessel. The size of our colony and large number of American women it contains places heavy responsibility upon our Government as regards possible consequences of racial trouble. I feel that a war vessel should be sent immediately for moral effect and to calm general apprehension.