File No. 838.00/1333.
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Yesterday forenoon sent patrol to Haut du Cap; afternoon sent patrol Petitanse. Both patrols passed Cacos outposts whose commanders [Page 492] wished them to wait until communication could be held with Caco chief but no opposition was encountered when patrols pushed on. Today at 6 a.m. sent out 2 patrols 40 men each, first to Plain du Nord via Haut du Cap, second to Haut du Cap via Petitanse and Carrefour de Trous. Patrol ordered to push through, to take no offensive action, but to defend themselves if attacked. First patrol met numerous Caco outposts but went on. About 8.30 a.m. firing became general near Haut du Cap, both patrols engaged. Colonel Cole with marines sent to support patrol and remainder of Connecticut’s landing force landed. About 12.30 p.m. second patrol returned Cape Haitien; Colonel Cole with other patrol and support remained at Haut du Cap, firing continuing at that time. Ten marines wounded; counted forty dead Cacos on Haut du Cap road. The sending out of these patrols necessary to insure free entry of food and supplies to Cape Haitien and not considered in nature of offensive operations. Colonel Waller leaving Port au Prince tonight on board Eagle for Cape Haitien.