837.00/1800: Telegram
The Minister in Cuba (Long) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 15—4:50 a.m.]
241. Department’s October 11th, 3 p.m. Increase of marines at Camaguey would insure safety for property in three sensitive provinces of Santa Clara, Camaguey and Oriente. Both Santa Clara and Oriente more sensitive than Camaguey which is located between them. Present garrison of Camaguey so small that in case of emergency it would not be safe to reduce its strength by sending detachments to other sensitive provinces. However, if this garrison is greatly increased detachments may be held in readiness to proceed to other sensitive provinces [in] case of disturbances. No definite information from plantation owners in district mentioned that attempts have been made to destroy property. Most effective destruction consists of burning cane. A firebrand does that work in an instant. However, property in all three sensitive provinces is in jeopardy and suggested increase of marines would be an insurance against the possibility of such excitement.
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