File No. 812.00/4481.
The American Ambassador to the Secretary of State.
Mexico, July 24, 1912—11 a.m.
Suspension of constitutional guaranties decided on yesterday. This is practically a declaration of martial law in the States of Sonora, Morelos and Chihuahua, and parts of Durango, Puebla, Tlaxcala and Mexico. The reason given by the Government is the increase of atrocities, violation by rebels of laws of civilized warfare in said States. Commanding general in the zone publicly states that he is unable to deal with the situation, not having strong enough forces. There is a simultaneous revival of rebel activity in both north and south. It may be a movement toward cohesion.