File No. 837.00/1222b
The Secretary of State to Minister Gonzales
Washington, March 14, 1917—6 p.m.
The Navy Department has received the following message from the commander of the United States vessel stationed at Guantanamo which Colonel Jane desires to have forwarded to President Menocal:
After 24 hours have elapsed since requesting conference leaders now ask five days armistice to permit sufficient time for conference and answer from you. Await orders. Signed Colonel Jane.
The Navy Department states that the commander of the U. S. S. Montana believes that as it is essential before conference, armistice requested is important, and considers that by conference basis of settlement can be reached. He stages that the situation at present is quiet but if no action is taken or if a battle takes place in that vicinity he considers it certain great damage will follow to foreign and American property, no matter with what result. He strongly recommends that this view be presented to President Menocal by you.