File No. 312.41/95.
Consul Edwards to the Secretary of State.
Ciudad Juarez , February 19, 1914 .
Department’s February 19. This Consul visited General Villa in his private office this afternoon and informed him of instructions of Honorable Secretary of State Bryan, at the request of British Ambassador. General Villa stated that he was anxious that my Government and the British Government should know the facts with reference to William Benton and that he is dead. That Benton came to his house armed and attempted to kill him. Villa produced large pistol which he said Benton brought with him. I will convey the facts to the family and send full particulars to the Department by next mail.