File No. 312.11/3726a.
The Secretary of State to all American Consuls in Mexico.
Washington , April 22, 1914 .
In pursuance of the President’s purpose to enforce amends for indignities offered, the naval commander at Vera Cruz took possession of the customhouse, cable office, post office, and telegraph and railroad terminals which were directly connected with the customs collection. Immediately thereafter an attack upon our marines was begun by unorganized bands of Mexicans, whose fire drew our men into a general contest, and it became necessary in order to establish peace in Vera Cruz to take the whole city. Up to eight o’clock last night four American soldiers were killed and twenty wounded. This Government will advise those in command that this Government does not desire to interfere with civil government at Vera Cruz.
In view of the present critical situation, you are instructed to urge all Americans to leave Mexico as soon as possible.