File No. 812.00/4708b.
[Untitled]
Washington, August 21, 1912—3 p.m.
Department’s 907, of July 19. Vicksburg, which sailed from San Diego August 22, will proceed first to Guaymas, arriving there about August 28, and later proceed to the other west-coast ports in her itinerary. So inform Mexican Government.
In view of the situation that has arisen in Sonora the Vicksburg has secret orders to remain at Guaymas for the protection of American citizens and American interests in that region until it is possible to foresee with more or less certainty what will be the course of events.
The Des Moines will make a casual visit to the east-coast ports similar to that outlined for the west coast, and will start some time [Page 828] during the first week in September, going first to Tampico, and touching later at Vera Cruz and Progreso, and possibly at Coatzacoalcos. You will be informed of itinerary later. Make same representations to the Mexican Government for her as for Vicksburg.