File No. 312.11/1073.
The American Ambassador to the Secretary of State.
Mexico , February 12, 1913—noon .
Americans driven from their homes by the firing or by the occupation of their homes by troops have thronged the Embassy this morning. I anticipate that their number will increase and probably other nationalities will seek the Embassy’s protection. As the sanitary conditions resulting from this would become intolerable, I am distributing the larger number among adjoining houses, allowing to remain here at night only those who can sleep in beds or on sofas. Will the Department please advise me whether I am authorized to extend a general supervision over and care for these people?