File No. 812.00/11594.
Consul Canada to the Secretary of State.
Vera Cruz, April 21, 1914, 4 p.m.
Marines and bluejackets landed at 11.30 this morning immediately taking possession of cable office, post office, telegraph office and customs house, also railroad terminal and yards with rolling-stock. Notwithstanding firing from housetops we are masters situation so far without use heavy guns. Firing all around Consulate several shots having struck building. Steamer Ypiranga stopped outside by Admiral Fletcher. Our men now simply defending themselves but may have to use big guns from ships if Mexican troops do not cease firing soon. Some resistance from naval, soon silenced by guns on Prairie. At this time reported four our men killed, twenty wounded. American newspaper men and several other Americans in Consulate. Several Americans including some women who refused to go aboard refugee ship now marooned in hotels within firing-line. Trains from Mexico City did not arrive. Am now making efforts reach General Maas, Commandant of Port, requesting him in name of humanity cease firing to prevent necessity our ships bombarding city. This telegram sent at first opportunity.