File No. 818.00/382
The Chargé in Costa Rica ( Johnson) to the Secretary of State
Arrests in great numbers again being made. Nearly 1,000 men forcibly recruited to meet attack anticipated. In view of unconfirmed news Tinoco received, reported in my April 3, 8 p.m., troop trains sent to Limon and Puntarenas. Town in state of considerable excitement. School closed to house recruits.
I have learned confidentially that Gonzalo Fernandez, a brother-in-law of Tinoco, is leaving for Panama within a day or two with a proposition from Tinoco to retire in favor of some one of his choosing, first, however, making an agreement with the United States in regard to the Canal and Cocos Island, money to be paid to his successor. I have been approached very informally as well, but have given encouragement only to proposition relating to retirement.