File No. 812.512/658.
The Secretary of State to Special Agent Silliman.
Washington, May 28, 1915.
Consul, Guadalajara, reports central and state governments demanding payment again of taxes collected during occupation Convencionistas. Department believes that Carranza will recognize generally accepted principle of international law that property owners are entitled to pay taxes to persons in de facto authority, of which principle Department has from time to time advised interested American owners of property in Mexico, and upon your bringing matter to his attention will immediately issue orders to authorities to desist from this unjust action. Matter urgent and Department will appreciate being advised at once of Carranza’s attitude and action taken.