File No. 312.41/300.
The Acting Secretary of State to the Secretary of the Navy.
Washington, November 19, 1914.
Sir: I have the honor to inclose herewith a copy of a memorandum from the British Ambassador at this capital, dated November 17, 1914, requesting that, in view of a possible attack upon Tampico, the Senior Naval Officer of the United States in Mexican waters be instructed to give such protection as may be possible to the lives and interests of British subjects, and to afford them refuge in the event of danger.
I have the honor to suggest therefore that the Admiral in command in Mexican east coast waters be instructed to extend such protection as may be possible to the lives and properties of Americans, British, and other foreigners at Tampico, and to afford them refuge in the event of danger.
I have [etc.]