File No. 812.00/17903
[Untitled]
Following just received from Pershing:
Namiquipa, April 17, 1916.
115. Replying your 106, following resume” of attitude Mexican people and recommend.
There have been apparent attempts by the de facto Government forces to cooperate in efforts to capture Villa. In some instances efforts cooperate possibly sincere efforts capture Villa. My opinion is, general attitude Carranza has been one of obstruction. This also universal opinion Army officers this expedition. Carranza forces falsely report all acts against Villa forces and death of Villa leaders. Activity Carranza force in territory through which we have operated probably intentionally obstructive.
Marked example obstruction refusal allow our use of railroads. Captious criticisms by local officials against troops passing through town prompted by obstructive spirit. Columns often delayed for this reason when continuous pursuit was very important. Guerrero fight would have been complete success [Page 522] but for treachery Mexican guide. The populace at every critical stage this campaign have circulated misleading information regarding whereabouts Villa band and assisted in escape.
Inconceivable that notorious character like Villa could remain in country with people ignorant his general direction and approximate location. Since Guerrero fight it is practically impossible obtain guides even from one town to another except by coercion. Small bands Carranza troops under guise Villistas have often fired upon our columns.
The further we advance south the less friendly the people have become. The centers population and among members various factions deep-seated sentiment against presence of troops exists. No opportunities lost by our officers explain conditions protocol. At first people exhibit only passive disapproval American entry into country. Lately sentiments have changed to hostile position. The movement of Government troops through Sonora towards our line of communication must be regarded with grave suspicion. Recent outbreak in Parral against troops undoubtedly premeditated. Believe this represents general attitude of both Carranza and Villistas. Little difference between them. Carranza Government may express regret at treacherous indignity inflicted upon our troops at Parral but Government impotent present recurrence should we continue pursuit Villa. National control over local government cannot be said to exist this section. Protection to individuals from pillage by both factions not in any case afforded.
In fact, anarchy reigns supreme in all sections through which we have operated. In view these facts, future promises Carranza Government could not be depended upon.
In order to prosecute our mission with any promise of success it is therefore absolutely necessary for us to assume complete possession for time being of country through which we must operate; and establish control of railroads as means of supplying forces required.
Therefore recommend immediate capture by this command of City and State of Chihuahua, also the seizure of all railroads therein, as preliminary to further necessary … [blank]