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

File No. 312.115/2662

[Untitled]

[Telegram]

Department of State,
Washington, July 20, 1916, 5 p.m.

223. Reference Department’s June 20, midnight, June 21, 3 p.m., June 21, 4 p.m., June 29, 4 p.m., July 12, 5 p.m., July 14, 5 p.m., July 14, 7 p.m., July 14, 10 p.m., all relating to the seizure or confiscation by Mexican authorities of American properties or lack of protection thereto resulting in its loss.

Additional incidents are burglarizing American Consulate, Nogales, about June 21, in consequence of withdrawal of guard which collector customs promised Consul would be maintained, and seizure and taking from Piedras Negras to Sabinos about June 23 by orders General Zuazua, military commander, Coahuila State troops, seven thousand goats and sheep belonging I. N. Boicourt, American citizen.

Bring all above to attention appropriate authorities, reciting previous representations, if any, and say in view these large number of acts committed or permitted by officials evidencing unfriendliness to Americans, this Government expects disavowal these acts by de facto Government and immediate and energetic action in way of restoration property where it still exists, adequate compensation for property destroyed, and punishment of responsible persons. Request early response.

Polk