File No. 812.00/14009a.
The Secretary of State to Special Agent Silliman.
Washington, December 13, 1914.
We are much disappointed and distressed to learn that executions are taking place. Please bring every possible influence to bear on [Page 629] authorities in behalf of political prisoners. See if you can secure permission for political prisoners to leave the country. Do everything in your power to save Iturbide. He acted for Carbajal and turned the city over to the Constitutionalists, thus saving much loss of life as well as preventing disorder. It would be most unfortunate if he were dealt with harshly.
Impress upon the authorities the importance of cultivating the respect of foreign nations, whose good opinion will be necessary in establishing proper international relations.
Be constant and continuous in your effort to protect from harm or insult the representatives of religious orders. Inform us whether religious exercises are interfered with and report any complaints which have been made to you by the representatives of any church or religious organization.