812.00/15122a Suppl.
The Secretary of State to President Wilson
My Dear Mr. President: I am just in receipt of your Mexican statement which you were kind enough to send over. I think the amendments you have made improved it, although, as you remember, it was quite satisfactory to me yesterday with the exception of one word.
However, as you ask for suggestions, permit me to inquire whether, on the first page, about one-third of the way down, it would not be wise to substitute the words “its authority denied” instead of “robbed of authority.” This is merely a suggestion intended to avoid use of the word “rob.” It is not, however, a material change.
The last sentence I notice you have substituted the words “for other means” for the word “elsewhere” which was under discussion. My object in calling attention to the word “elsewhere” yesterday was that it did not express what I understood to be your intention, namely, to leave yourself free to know what to do. The change which you have made removes the suggestion that you would necessarily turn to other persons than the present leaders in Mexico and to that extent corrects the commitment which might have been understood from the use of the word “elsewhere.” The phrase “look for other means” does not quite express your thought as I understood it although it comes nearer to it than the word “elsewhere,” if I understand your point in view.
What I fear is that the papers will attempt to put a construction upon it which will exclude the possibility of recognizing either one of the factions if, upon investigation, you should find it better to recognize one of those factions than to invite the organization of a new faction. It is possible that by the time you are ready to act Carranza might exert an influence that would justify his recognition. It is possible that it might be wise to encourage Angeles if he should show sufficient support.
I think the words “to decide what means should be employed” would leave us more latitude than the words “look for other means.” However, this is merely a suggestion as you know your own wishes in the matter. It is merely submitted out of a desire to render you any assistance that I can.
I shall ask to have this note sent you at once and you can advise Mr. Tumulty as to the release of the statement. If he will then advise me when it is released, as it is, or with such changes as you may desire, I will have it sent to Mexico City, to Carothers and to Silliman.
I am [etc.]