File No. 812.00/17774
[Untitled]
27. In relation to use Northwestern Railway for forwarding supplies. This morning officially informed by Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs that, as a result of his conference yesterday with General Carranza, directed to state that it will be absolutely impossible to issue any instructions to Chihuahua authorities as to protecting and forwarding supplies for American troops by railway. One reason assigned for this conclusion is that publicity was given in American press to our secret understanding making it appear Mexican authorities officially recognized use railway. In this connection stated that even Mexican Ambassador uninformed as to understanding. Claimed that such publicity has embarrassed Government here. Further, that if Mexican Government assumed any responsibility would increase danger of attack on trains by bandits.
Under explanation this decision it was suggested that present methods of forwarding supplies be continued. When asked if that meant that supplies could be consigned by railway independent of Government protection reply was “Well, we know that you will not let your men starve.”
Undoubted meaning this decision that officially Government will not sanction use railway nor issue any instructions but will not object [Page 509] to supplies being forwarded in ordinary manner. As previously stated in 25, April 4, 1 p.m., Cabrera has ordered expeditious entry.
Believe officials here expect supplies will be delayed and thus compel withdrawal some portion of forces soon. In this connection invite attention to Cabrera statement contained in 17, March 31, 5 p.m. My opinion is that motive of present attitude, which is directly contrary to private agreement announced in 13, March 30, 3 p.m., is hope of embarrassment punitive expedition and securing early withdrawal without asking directly for same.