701.4112/87: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in Mexico (Schoenfeld)
319. Embassy’s 224, June 18, 9 p.m., and 225, June 18, 10 p.m. Inform Cummins that it is important that he depart from Mexico at the earliest possible time in order to minimize possibility of friction which would be deplored.
Inform Minister for Foreign Affairs informally that the Department is gratified to learn that Cummins will be afforded “usual facilities”, which means of course that he will be assured all usual diplomatic immunities in connection with his departure. At the same time you will say that it is the earnest hope and expectation of this Government that Cummins will be given the necessary time to pack his baggage and depart from Mexico. You will say further, if necessary, that this Government would regret to see any steps taken by the Mexican Government which would in any way restrict Mr. Cummins’ personal liberty or comfort in Mexico during the time when he is making all reasonable efforts to depart from Mexico. You are instructed in particular to inform the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the unfortunate impression which such restriction would create on the mind of the American people, who are in full sympathy with the general aspirations of the Government of Mexico. [Page 454] The Government of the United States would consider it indeed unfortunate if any circumstance should arise which would alienate American sympathy from the Government of Mexico.
It is to be hoped that the Government of Mexico will not under any circumstance violate the premises of the British Legation. Should such a violation appear to be imminent you will inform the Minister for Foreign Affairs of this Government’s regret were the Government of Mexico to pursue such a course. You will explain that this Government bases its action on the fact that it is now in charge of the archives and effects of the Legation and incidental to that charge must protest. Of course it would be undesirable to intimate that such protest will be made, unless actual danger of violation is imminent.
The Department believes that your action as stated above must appeal to the good sense of the Government of Mexico and will prevent a situation which would be a cause of regret to all of Mexico’s friends.