File No. 818.00/164
[Untitled]
San José, June 2, 1917—1 a.m.
Your May 29, 7 p.m. Attitude of element representing public opinion becoming very critical towards de facto Government. Prevalent opinion all classes that the country has never had more arbitrary, corrupt administration. Letters now opened at will. Foreign newspapers withdrawn from mails, native newspapers made innocuous. Daily Impartial no longer prints critical matter. Spy system greatly extended. Forced recruiting has been proceeding in country districts until estimated Government has 5,000 men under arms but no ammunition. Normal strength 500 officers. Object of visit of Joaquin to the United States supposed to be to obtain munitions. Government extremely alert and is active against radical opposition, satisfying itself for the present mostly by watching them but there are a few political prisoners and will be many more when our attitude is known. This morning Government newspaper gives out recognition will now come in less than a month when new constitution decreed by Monday is examined by the Department. * * *
Efforts of advocates here of Constitutional Government likely to be futile as long as Government has sufficient funds to pay troops and police which will be for some time to come. Government seriously embarrassed financially with exchange now four to one but could hold out against people who do not resist effectively.