File No. 839.00/1818
The Secretary of State to Minister Russell
Washington , May 7, 1916, noon .
Your May 6, 6 a.m., received May 7, 10 a.m. Caperton reports to Navy Department May 6, midnight, that President has canceled request that city be occupied by our forces and has placed his resignation in your hands May 6, 9 p.m.
While naturally desirous that bloodshed be avoided, Department believes that manifestly irregular manner of impeachment renders it particularly desirable that President be upheld by every possible and proper means. Previous instructions to you and to naval forces grant authority for such action as you may deem advisable.
Additional marines are being sent and Caperton so advised.