701.4112/73: Telegram
The Chargé in Mexico (Schoenfeld) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:15 p.m.]
212. Embassy’s 198 dated June 4, 3 p.m. and despatch 8570 dated June 9. Cummins is virtually a prisoner in British Legation which [Page 449] is now under open surveillance by Mexican authorities. He fears an attempt may be made to enter Legation by force to take him. For that reason he is now in touch with the Chilean Minister, who in the absence of the American Ambassador is dean of the diplomatic corps. His purpose is to enter a vigorous protest before that body in case of a violation of the Legation. Please instruct me for such an eventuality.
As set forth in my above-mentioned despatch the British Government’s position is that they will cancel the mission of Sir Thomas Hohler if orders to expel Cummins are carried out. Otherwise Cummins will be given leave when Hohler arrives. Cummins has informed me that Mexican Government is highly indignant because London is supporting him, but I personally doubt if Mexican Government will violate British Legation. Present situation is untenable.