File No. 312.52/212.
Special Agent Carothers to the Secretary of State.
I have just interviewed Carranza based upon your telegram April 6. I have requested reply in writing. Verbally Carranza expressed his unwillingness to interfere with Villa’s orders; that it is his desire that all Spaniards in Mexico leave country before he gets to Mexico City because he would have to order many of them executed if caught; that he has positive proofs that the Spanish element in the country is responsible for the maintenance of the Huerta regime through financial support and the arming of men on their ranches under pretense of defense against bandits; that the Torreon contingent will have to leave if so ordered by Villa. When I questioned him as to possibility of many returning upon proving their neutrality he stated that he would take no action whatever before going south personally, expecting to leave within two or three days. From his and Villa’s attitude I take it that Chihuahua and Torreon incidents will serve as precedents throughout progress of revolution. They are conscientious in their belief that these measures are necessary for the pacification of the country. Will telegraph text of reply upon its receipt. The order of expulsion was given by Villa in Torreon in my presence after the most vigorous influence had been brought to bear upon him by me and members of his staff. This caused me to come here at once realizing nothing further could be accomplished there.