File No. 837.711/18
The Acting Secretary of State to the Minister in Cuba ( Gonzales )
Department’s March 9, 6 p.m. It is desired that when authority for censorship of Spanish mails under direct American control and supervision be granted it be so comprehensive as to permit at the same time a thorough search of the entire ship, passengers, officers, and crew in discretion of American official. This form of search has been carried out for nearly two years by British Government, all neutral vessels being so searched by them. It is being done by the United States. The great importance of having this work thoroughly and efficiently done under United States control and supervision can not be overestimated. Use your best efforts in arranging for immediate creation by Cuba of such a system.