File No. 812.00/9134.
The American Chargé d’Affaires to the Secretary of State.
Mexico, October 8, 1913—midnight.
538. The fall of Torreón into the hands of the rebels is now generally admitted. One of the leading Carrancista deputies informed me that he believes this to be a turning point in favor of Carranza. The Government assures me that its troops, which have been successful in other parts of the north, will now concentrate in the vicinity [Page 836] of Torreón. I do not fear trouble in Mexico City, but increased revolutionary activity in other parts may ensue. Commercial and banking circles very panicky. I have the honor respectfully to suggest that more war vessels be within reach of Mexican ports and military forces in readiness for transportation, as in an emergency a demonstration of force would be most potent in bringing Mexicans in general to a sense of political responsibility.