File No. 312.52/156c.

The Secretary of State to Special Agent Carothers.112

[Telegram.]

Have been shown Associated Press dispatch stating that Villa is anxious to have the Spanish Ambassador at Washington know that [Page 791] Spaniards in Torreon may expect no mercy. He is reported as requesting that the Ambassador be advised that Spaniards had better get out while they can. Please see Villa at once and say that the United States cannot believe that the report is authentic but we feel compelled to protest in the most emphatic terms against cruelty to foreigners whether Spaniards or citizens of other countries. We are sure that Villa will on reflection realize the importance of observing the rules of war and respect the person and property of foreigners.

Bryan
.
  1. Same telegram to the Consuls at Chihuahua and Hermosillo. See also footnote 114.