File No. 812.00/17663
Special Representative Rodgers to the Secretary of State
7. Secretary of Treasury Cabrera by authority and direction of General Carranza called this evening to explain Mexico attitude certain features protocol. Stated these views could be better explained [Page 503] by frank discussion here and intimated desire for transmission confidentially.
First point: Border limit of protocol. Mexico proposition: Colorado River of [to?] Piedras Negras. This limitation desired principally to avoid political difficulty which would arise in Lower California if that border included. Situation there described as critical and delicate at present and would be aggravated if protocol extended to that border. Line between Piedras Negras and Gulf Coast not so important, but Mexico thinks had better be excluded in order to make it appear that border of Chihuahua and Sonora only considered of importance.
Second point. Mexico contends that there should be reasonable limitation of distance from border, and also of time, for punitive expeditions; and that character of force should be stipulated; that is, that stipulation should be for cavalry and quick-moving artillery; this for reason that infantry and other artillery hard to explain and would cause trouble Mexico especially. Number of troops not very important.
They consider protocol without such restrictions dangerous to both countries and ask us to consider fact that any broadening will be difficult to explain in Mexico especially, and will probably lead to misunderstandings in northern Mexico, where situation is always somewhat dangerous and especially at present, even though necessity for present punitive expedition is now well understood. Cabrera stated Chief hoped private explanation here would be beneficial both countries.
During conference invited attention Cabrera to attitude General Nafarrate, Tampico, and was informed authorities here regard him as example danger arising under general protocol.
Mentioned matter use Northwestern Railway transportation supplies. Was informed General Carranza, while sympathy with purpose, believes it would be better to withhold for the present open consent, but suggests United States designate civilian consignees for freight various points, and then orders quick despatch would be given.
Was assured all these views are those of General Carranza and General Obregon. Given under authority and offered in spirit friendliness. Although not so requested to state, think subjects of this telegram for Department alone. Stated Mexican Ambassador-designate has been instructed along these lines, but not so fully as to political reasons involved.