File No. 312.11/8327
Consul Dickinson to the Secretary of State
San Luis Potosi, December 29, 1916, 11 p.m.
Efforts to get in touch with Torreon by wire or wireless futile. Banditti apparently have taken Torreon. About fifteen hundred foreigners remained there after departure of British Consul with other foreigners.
If Department desires I will get foreigners out of Durango district. It is respectfully suggested timely authority and instruction be given me. I consider they are in danger should Villa take Torreon. An imperative decision of Department and foreign Embassies Washington seems advisable. Just at present I can direct their departure from Durango to safety and secure good service without leaving this city. A telegraphic reply is respectfully requested.