837.00/2888: Telegram

The Ambassador in Cuba (Guggenheim) to the Secretary of State

139. No disorder at Habana since yesterday afternoon when knowledge of suspension of constitutional guarantees became general. Provinces reported quiet.

Publication of all important Habana daily and weekly newspapers in press association last night agreed to suspend in order not to submit to Government supervision. Two Government dailies and foreign-language newspapers still published.

In rioting yesterday afternoon, Arturo Tagle y Soria, claiming native American citizenship, was gravely wounded. Accounts of disinterested American witnesses substantially agree that he was among group ordered to disperse by troopers. He was slow in movement and when urged forward by machete blows he turned in anger and wrested machete from soldier and employed weapon against him and troopers who came to their comrade’s assistance with machetes and was shot while so engaged. His affidavit and affidavit of a Cuban witness are not in agreement with foregoing. He disclaims all responsibility but admits striking trooper in self-defense. Claims birth at Key West, January 10, 1906, and to be member coast artillery unit National Guard there. Father, Luis Felipe Tagle, resides 1108 Division Street, Key West.

Guggenheim