File No. 812.00/7182.
The American Consul at Durango to the Secretary of State.
Durango, April 18, 1913.
I am requested by the Governor to ascertain whether Americans feel disposed to aid the Mexican inhabitants in defending this city in case of urgent necessity. In replying to the Governor I said that in accordance with international law and according to instructions from my Government, our nationals must observe the strictest neutrality and refrain from interfering between the contending forces. The Governor pointed out that the forces now surrounding the city are not considered to be revolutionists since they are not righting for any political principles, destruction and pillage being their only object in entering the city. Please instruct me fully by telegraph.