File No. 839.00/1335.
[Untitled]
Santo Domingo, June 20, 1914, 8 p.m.
Dominican Government asks immediate explanation of the threat which Bordas claims Commander of South Atlantic Squadron has made to fire upon the Government troops commanded by President Bordas unless Bordas refrains from using artillery at Puerto Plata. Minister of Foreign Affairs intensely excited declaring Commander’s conduct unjustified and a violation of neutrality as well as a menace to Dominican Nation’s sovereignty. The Dominican Government claims the alleged threat was for the purpose of preventing the reduction of besieged town by Government troops which would end revolution.
Fearing hasty and ill-considered action that might be embarrassing to Administration I have requested that the incident may be not considered until I have time to receive your instructions. Without questioning the necessity of the Commander’s action I regret to report that I believe said action menaces influence the Department has been gradually securing for the good of this country.