File No. 812.512/899.
The Secretary of State to Special Agent Silliman.
Washington, November 18, 1915.
Department advised that, generally speaking, conditions in Mexico affecting mining properties are still very unfavorable so that operations are yet almost at standstill, with transportation interrupted and access to mines in many cases impossible.
In this view it seems particularly unjust to insist upon increase in mining taxes due this month, or to require payment in gold coin, said now to be worth seven times paper currency of enforced circulation.
Bring to attention of appropriate authorities and earnestly request reduction in taxes to fit existing disturbed conditions. Add that unless such reduction be made, many operators will apparently be unable to make payment.