812.00Sonora/854: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Mexico (Morrow)
344. Following telegram received this morning from U. S. S. Moody at Guaymas dated April 27, 5 p.m.:
“On April 26, 6 p.m. rebel troops passed through Cajeme north. Unconfirmed report that these insurgents cut off by burned bridges between Navajoa and Cajeme have joined federal forces. On April 27 Topete in Guaymas states that rebels will evacuate and not defend city but oppose landing of federal troops there from gunboat Progreso. General Topete and staff left Guaymas at 11 a.m. One thousand insurgents left Empalme at 3 a.m. Two troop trains about 30 cars each left at noon. Each was shelled by Bravo. Insurgents state that Ortiz is destination. Notices dropped on Guaymas that air raid will take place April 28. Have planned to take on board all American citizens and assist in the removal of about 500 foreigners. Mexican steamships Washington and Bolivar captured by rebels in March have unconditionally surrendered to government gunboat. Guaymas will be completely evacuated by night of April 27.”
Referring to Department’s 328, April 25, 3 p.m.,65 you may, if you have not already done so, bring the contents of 328 to the attention of the Mexican Government and say that while now refraining from formal representation regarding the matter you wish at the same time to suggest that to avoid injuries to foreign life and property which will inevitably give rise to future discussions between the two governments, the Mexican Government may wish to undertake the bombardment of such places as Guaymas only upon urgent military necessity and after ample warning given. Unless places such as Guaymas are either fortified or are used as concentration points for rebel forces, the Mexican Government might conclude that in view of the presence of foreigners and foreign interests, active military operations might be avoided.