File No. 837.13/3a.
The Acting Secretary of State to the American Minister.
Washington, January 6, 1913—7 p.m.
Including, as it does, other than political offenders, this Government fears that the amnesty bill, if enacted as passed by the House, would create an unfortunate impression that common crimes were allowed to go unpunished in Cuba, and that thus crime was not dealt with in the manner found necessary in all countries to the adequate protection of life, property, and individual liberty. You will make clear orally to the Government of Cuba this apprehension which arises from the friendly interest which the Government of the United States necessarily takes.