File No. 812.00/2940.
[Untitled]
Mexico, February 27, 1912—10 p.m.
Consular agent at Torreón reports conditions throughout the Laguna district very critical, with provisions hardly sufficient for two weeks. Situation dangerous at mines and haciendas, which are now completely isolated. More than 1,500 foreigners in Torreon and no railway and infrequent telegraph service. Says 53 Americans are holding the Velardena mining camp against insurgents and have driven them off, but expect them to return in larger force, and ask protection. I have made vigorous representations and have advised the German minister, who is deeply interested.
In the State of Vera Cruz situation grows worse generally and a band of insurgents, estimated from 1,000 to 2,000, is invading the Tamaulipas and Vera Cruz oil district, where millions of American money are invested and a large American population resides. Have made representations.