hich the
country will obey and respect.

The Government of the United States does not stand in the same case
with the other great Governments of the world in respect of what is
happening or what is likely to happen in Mexico. We offer our good
offices, not only because of our genuine desire to play the part of
a friend, but also because we are expected by the powers of the
world to act as Mexico's nearest friend.

We wish to act in these circumstances in the spirit of the most
earnest and disinterested friendship. It is our purpose in whatever
we do or propose in this perplexing and distressing situation not
only to pay the most scrupulous regard to the sovereignty and
independence of Mexico--that we take as a matter of course to which
we are bound by every obligation of right and honor--but also to
give every possible evidence that we act in the interest of Mexico
alone, and not in the interest of any person or body of persons who
may have personal or property claims in Mexico which they may feel
that they have the right to press. We are seeking to counsel Mexico
for her own good and in the interest of her own peace, and not for
any other purpose whatever. The Government of the United States
would deem itself discredited if it had any selfish or ulterior
purpose in transactions where the peace, happiness, and prosperity
of a whole people are involved. It is acting as its friendship for
Mexico, not as any selfish interest, dictates.

The present situation in Mexico is incompatible with the
fulfillment of international obligations on the part of Mexico,
with the civilized development of Mexico herself, and with the
maintenance of tolerable political and economic conditions in
Central America. It is upon no common occasion, therefore, that the
United States offers her counsel and assistance. All America cries
out for a settlement.

A satisfactory settlement seems to us to be conditioned on--

(_a_) An immediate cessation of fighting throughout Mexico, a
definite armistice solemnly entered into and scrupulously observed;

(_b_) Security given for an early and free election in which all
will agree to take part;

(_c_) The consent of Gen. Huerta to bind himself not to be a
candidate for election as President of the Republic at this