Mexican Civil War

After the defeat of the rebels at Puebla a fortnight ago, the second stage of the war was begun by the battle of Guadalajara, which is the third largest city in Mexico and one of the richest farming districts on the western coast.

President Obregon left Mexico City for the battlefront and on the day of his arrival the Federal forces announced a crushing defeat of the rebels. Two hundred rebels were captured.

Next day, the rebels, who claimed several minor victories on the eastern front, surprised Federal General Lazaro Cardenas and he, his staff and 300 cavalry were made prisoners. The Federal forces were afterwards withdrawn from the Guadalajara area and it was reported that the battle may not begin for two weeks. A battle was, however, reported imminent on the eastern front at Tehuacan.

President Obregon was reported to have offered amnesty to all revolutionary generals if they laid down their arms within 15 days. He later said: "There will be mercy only for those who are not responsible for the revolt."

By far the most important news bearing on the war was the decision of the U. S. Government to supply President Obregon with war material to put down the Huerta rebellion. It was thought that the munitions will include from 10,000 to 15,000 Springfield rifles, as much as 10,000,000 rounds of ammunition and possibly some military aeroplanes. (See National Affairs.)