Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Address of the President to Congress December 5, 1916

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]

John R. Silliman

[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.]

John R. Silliman