File No. 812.512/392.
Vice Consul Bevan to the Secretary of State.
Tampico, August 13, 1914.
Several American firms were notified verbally this morning that war contributions would have to be paid within twenty-four hours. Nafarrate is out of town and subordinate is in Chargé. Subordinate agrees not to take any action until return of Nafarrate tomorrow. Same discriminatory list is being used. Spanish firms that have already made payments have been ordered to pay again double what they paid first time. American firms will likewise have no guarantee against same treatment should they make any payments. Bather than pay companies will close up and have requested that consular seal placed on their doors. Respectfully request instructions.