815.00 Revolutions/100: Telegram
The Minister in Honduras (Lay) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5 p.m.]
100. Following from Vice Consul, Tela. May 17, 10 a.m. Ferrera expected to arrive Progreso about noon. Government despatched about 250 men San Pedro Sula direction Progreso by rail. I am informed that no Government troops Progreso now and Mayor Progreso has advised residents leave town. Tela authorities advise me 100 troops in Tela, attack Tela expected tomorrow and local insurrection support probable. If Ferrera demands train to Tela, should Consulate advise company refuse?
Warship assignment advisable at once. Should Tela be attacked should neutral zone be established, warship present or not? Have advised Marblehead now Puerto Cortes and Admiral Smith. Have advised Vice Consul Tela that neutral zone should not be established unless lives of Americans and foreigners cannot be amply protected by Government forces or evacuated on one of company’s ships and warships and armed force should not be landed in any case unless absolutely necessary and the approval of the authorities should be first requested. Please rush answer whether Department approves.