Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Address of the President to Congress December 4, 1917

File No. 837.00/1339

[Untitled]

American Legation,
Habana, May 8, 1917—1 p.m.

Referring to my cable of April 29, midnight, last paragraph. Believe the prompt reenforcement Guantanamo naval station with from 500 to 1,000 marines very desirable. I do not anticipate increased activity of rebels but their activities concentrated in Guantanamo valley and with marines to guard railroad and properties between Guantanamo and Santiago federal forces can move quickly bring rebels and bandits to terms.

President Lewis of Guantanamo and Western Railroad extending from naval station to point near Santiago today asked for protection. It can be readily given if marines are at station. Property on the lines of road incidentally can be furnished increased protection.

Additional forces may be employed without publicity and in such a manner as to be perfectly acceptable to Cuban Government.

Gonzales