File No. 887.60/1102
Consul Griffith to the Secretary of State
Santiago [ undated ; received February 17, 1917, 6.40 p.m.].
Petrel at mouth harbor. Revolutionists to prevent entrance Cuban gun boats attempted four the morning of 16th to seal harbor entrance by sinking two merchant vessels. Commander Petrel prevented the same and commander in chief instructs him must not permit blockade of this harbor. Revolutionists have plenty of ammunition but guaranteed this office and commander Petrel protection life and property Santiago both native and foreign. The people excited, business paralyzed, national bank closed, others contemplating the same, various protests entered by Americans. Minister has been advised.