File No. 812.00/10438.
The American Ambassador to Great Britain to the Secretary of State.
London, Nov. 11, 1913—7 p.m.
Department’s November 7, 10 p.m. I said today to Sir Edward Grey some appreciative words regarding his Guildhall speech. Later, in giving his answer, promised last Saturday, as to the British Government’s attitude toward Huerta, Sir Edward unhesitatingly declared that they would lend no support to Huerta as against the United States.
Question: What do you mean by support?
Answer: Aid of any sort as against the United States.
Question: How would that be made effective?
Answer: If Huerta asks for our aid we shall tell him we can not lend it.
Question: Suppose he does not ask it?
Answer: If he shows he expects it.
Question: Will you declare that to Huerta?
Answer: I will instruct Carden that if Huerta asks for aid or shows by act that he expects it, he (Carden) is to inform him that he shall not have it.
Sir Edward stopped short at saying that without such act or request from Huerta he would instruct Carden to take the initiative in approaching him. It is possible that he may have in mind a wish to hear first from the other Governments he is consulting. He said he would continue the conversation with me after he had heard from the other Governments, mentioning in particular France, Germany, and Spain.