File No. 812.00/18125
Generals Scott and Funston to the Secretary of War
16. After an amicable conference covering hour and a half with Obregon and Juan Amador, their last statement was that their Government would not ratify agreement Obregon had signed which was approved by our Government, on the grounds that no date was set for complete withdrawal and the agreement was therefore too indefinite and a danger to Mexico.
To this was replied that a date could not be set for it is hoped that a cooperation with Mexican Government would bring about such a condition of safety on our border that we could withdraw, but only if the condition was present, not any specified date, which date might find the necessary condition unfulfilled.
Obregon was reminded of his having concurred in and signed the agreement. He replied that this showed that Mr. Carranza had [Page 544] more sense than he had. Obregon submitted a verbal agreement to be made between military commanders not to be ratified by either Government nor reduced to writing for the occupation of both sides of the border.
He spoke sending General Trevino and troops from Coahuila and Gomez from Sonora to Chihuahua, our troops to begin withdrawal and theirs to follow them to the border.
We feel that the whole proposition is redolent with bad faith, that Mexicans are convinced that they are not able to carry out agreement even if ratified and they desire to keep the United States troops quiet until Mexican troops are in position to drive them out of Mexico by force.
Obregon was asked to submit his proposition in writing at his earliest convenience. He promised to do this to-night or to-morrow.
He was told that he could not be encouraged to hope that such a proposition would be agreeable to our Government, but we would submit it when received.
We expect many attacks along whole border similar to latest attack in Big Bend Rio Grande.
Our line is thin and weak everywhere and inadequate to protect border anywhere if attacked in force.
There is no adequate reserves. There are many calls for help on border which can not be given and we think the border should at once be supported by at least 150,000 additional troops.
We have struggled for a different result with all our intelligence, patience and courtesy, hoping against hope for a peaceful solution but are now convinced that such solution can no longer be hoped for.
In order to give some added protection to border points exposed to raids it is recommended militia of Texas, New Mexico and Arizona be called out at once, final action as to that of other States to be deferred until receipt by us of Obregon’s proposal.
- Scott
- Funston