File No. 812.00/16536.
Special Agent Belt to the Secretary of State.
General Carranza does not desire that he be considered President stating that many men have been recipient this title which was merely assumed. Prefers title “in charge of the Executive power of the Republic” the same as has always used; the title First Chief applies more to the interior. He does not know exact form recognition will be extended but expects same to be of de facto Government. States that he is only legal authority remaining from old regime, still retaining Governorship of Coahuila. Responsibility for property and lives of foreigners will be assumed throughout the Republic. Those districts not yet in control will be somewhat difficult for time being. Such guaranties given in proclamation more generally known. During fighting in north will not endeavor to call general elections, first calling municipal elections. After these will come elections for governors of states. The so-called preconstitutional period will last a year more or less. Stated in interview with press today that there was no reason why he should not become a candidate for President. Has never had that character before; only First Chief of Constitutionalist Army in charge of the Executive Power, and Governor of Coahuila. No law prohibiting his being candidate. When asked whether he would be candidate he replied did not know; shortly might be, in event he was called. Trusts that foreigners will not in future intermeddle in politics; this will no doubt prevent much future trouble. Treating of religious question, stated that only Catholics that have meddled in politics have been punished. All religious toleration in Mexico will prevail as in past. He was asked by one member of press if he had choice as to who should be the Ambassador; he replied that the Ambassador should have a thorough knowledge of Mexico and conditions as they are today.