File No. 839.00/1810
Minister Russell to the Secretary of State
Santo Domingo, May 1, 1916, 2 p.m.
House of Representatives under pressure of Arias passed impeachment proceedings against President this morning. Senate to be convened at once and it is likely to approve action of House. [Page 223] Quorum in House forced by soldiers of Arias. Whole proceeding seems to be illegal and the President has issued proclamation to the people citing perfidy Arias and has issued an order dismissing him and commander of fort. Prairie expected to arrive tomorrow and I am convinced under no circumstances should we accept present conditions. We must stand by the President at all hazards in spite of any action of this present Congress. Any further parleying with Arias will lessen our prestige.