File No. 812.00/11564.
The Secretary of State to Chargé O’Shaughnessy.
Washington, April 21, 1914, 6 a.m.
767. We are informed that local Mexican authorities at Vera Cruz are planning to remove Mexican soldiers from Vera Cruz to City of Mexico and tear up track today. Keep in touch with Canada and without giving to Foreign Minister the information received impress upon him the necessity of keeping road to Vera Cruz open for the protection of foreign residents who may desire to leave. Represent to him that this is a matter of utmost importance.
Senate has adjourned till noon today when House resolution supporting President will be passed, but, as resolution is not necessary to justify the President in his action, he is at liberty to take such action as he may deem proper, except declaration of war, without waiting for the resolution to pass.
Inform us promptly of any change in the situation. If your communications are interfered with, notify us immediately through some other legation.