File No. 812.00/12775a.
The Secretary of State to Vice Consul Silliman.
Washington, August 6, 1914.
Say to General Carranza we regret exceedingly that any lack of attention or consideration has been shown Carbajal delegates. They were sent in good faith and to facilitate peaceful transfer of authority. If the conditions were unreasonable they could have been declined in such a manner as to permit withdrawal thereof. They should have free means of communication with Carbajal so as to [Page 581] hasten agreement. There is no doubt that Carbajal will do whatever is necessary to effect peaceful transfer of authority. Conditions presented by Carbajal delegates were only suggested and not intended as necessary conditions. We are informed that Carbajal is willing to withdraw all conditions except amnesty for political offenders and guaranties of life and property, and these General Carranza ought to be willing to give. They also desire an understanding that the city police shall be regarded as neutral for maintenance of order and be afforded full guaranties. This would seem advisable so as to permit the army to withdraw, otherwise there might be a period of disorder between withdrawal of army and time Constitutionalists are prepared to maintain order. Urge these considerations upon General Carranza.