817.00/4366
The Secretary of the Navy (Wilbur) to the Secretary of State
Sir: The following despatch which has been sent this date to the Commander of the Special Service Squadron in Nicaraguan waters is quoted for your information:
“The following instructions for your guidance; neutral zones should be of local nature only and solely for the protection of lives [Page 820] and property of Americans and foreigners. There should be nothing in the nature of intervention or interference with the internal affairs of Nicaragua. Arms and ammunition found in the neutral zones at Rio Grande and Puerto Cabezas should be returned to owners. Ammunition held for inspection should be returned unless you know of some reason for holding same not yet disclosed, in which case advise us fully at once and await instructions. But in the future no arms or ammunition or armed forces of either party should be allowed to pass through the neutral zones. Keep the Department fully informed of any action taken by the forces under your command and any recommendations in the premises. Your action up to date is fully approved.”
Respectfully,