Daily Kennebec journal. [microfilm reel] (Augusta, Me.) 1870-1975, 1916-04-21
Bakers Statement

Bakers Statement
Mr.. Baker explained today that he
himself had suggested the plan of send
ing Gen. Scott at conference with that
Office and his assistant, Maj. Gen. Bliss,
the night before the order was given.
I'm weighing the situation on the
border" he said, 1.-The inadequacy of
the Geographic reports received and the
lack Of knowledge of conditions sur
rounding the forces on the border and
in Mexico was so apparent that it SEEM
ed desirable that an effort be made to
ascertain by personal consultation the
full views of Gen. Funston and all of
the information he has" The sugges-
ton was approved by both officers.
Additional reports from Gen. Perish
ing outlined in border advices today,
probably will be ready for consideration
by the cabinet tomorrow. AS the last
meeting of the Presidents official adj
visors was devoted almost wholly to
the German situation, 1t seems probable
the Mexican problem will be fully re-
viewed by the cabinet then for the first
time since Gen. Carranza urged the
withdrawal Of the expedition.
Threatening Move
Reports from Mexico reaching the
state department also Will be available
As far as known these tell of increased
rather than lessened difficulties sur
rounding tn expedition. An instance of
this is the report that an unknown num-
Der of Carranza troops had been moved
by their immediate commander to the
Parral region, where Gen. Pershing's
most advanced base now is located. The
observer who reported this added that
while the movement, he believed, was
not authorized by the de facto govern
ment, it was intended as hint that
the Americans must not move further
southwark. Apparently only a small
force was involved and officials here re-
garded it significant rather than serl-
out 1t was suggested, however. as
added proof that the outlying Carran-
"a garrisons are not entirely under the
control of the war minister.
Note Acknowledged
The diplomatic situation showed no
change during the day, although it be-
came known that the United States al
ready had acknowledged Carranza's note
asking that negotiations for the with
drawal Of the American troops be taken
I'D. He was assured his arguments were
being studied, but there was nothing to
indicate today that a reply stating the
position of the United States was being
drafted. Unquestionably data is being
assembled. particularly as to the ques-
lions of fact involved in the misunder-
standing which the Carranza note al
leges has existed as to the attitude OF the
de facto government toward the present
expedition. There are other questions Of
fact, of a purely military nature. how
ever, and these can hardly be disposed
of until a full report from the border is
available.
No additional advices came as to the re-
ported death of Villa. although Mexico
City advices last night renewed specula-
ton on this subject. The last word to
the state department from the Carranza
capital cast much doubt on the rumor
and the change in sentiment by Carranza
officials indicated in news dispatches has
not been communicated as yet. So far,
apparently, no military officer on the Dor
der or in Mexico has thought the report
worth transmitting to the war depart
ment. No steps have been taken by the
Washington government to investigate
the matter.