File No. 812.6363/220
Special Agent Silliman to the Secretary of
State
Querétaro,
February 2, 1916.
Sir: The Department’s telegram of February 1,
4 p.m., quoting Bevan’s summary of a decree issued by General Aguilar on
February 15 and conveying the Department’s instruction to me, was
received this morning.
I have the honor to transmit herewith carbon of my representation in this
case.
I have [etc]
[Inclosure]
Special Agent Silliman to the Acting
Secretary of Foreign Relations
Querétaro,
February 2, 1916.
My Dear Mr. Secretary: Referring to the
decree issued by General Aguilar of the State of Vera Cruz on
January 15, 1916, to take effect on date of issuance, I am
instructed to ask General Carranza whether this decree was issued by
his authority and if so, whether it is to be temporary or permanent
in its nature. I am also instructed to inquire the reasons for the
issuance of this decree. I am further instructed to add that the
American Government reserves the right, after further consideration,
to protest against the application of this decree to American
citizens and to say that in any event, the provisions against
seeking protection of their Governments by interested nationals,
cannot be regarded as binding in so far as American citizens are
concerned.
I have [etc.]
