817.00/4936: Telegram

The Minister in Nicaragua (Eberhardt) to the Secretary of State

170. Sandino with far superior numbers is reported to have attacked the 87 American marines and Nicaraguan National Guard at Ocotal early yesterday morning and to have suffered decisive defeat after some 16 hours fighting when our aeroplanes made the rout complete, marines losing 1 killed and 2 badly injured. Sandino is reported to have lost about 200. It is not supposed that Sandino will offer much further serious resistance. Feland is sending detailed report.

Eberhardt