File No. 812.00/23452h.
The Secretary of State to the Special Commissioners.
Washington, May 30, 1914.
If Mediators insist upon armistice—which you think possible—call their attention to the fact that the Convention signed at The Hague in 1907 specifically states that mediation does not suspend hostilities unless suspension is provided for by special agreement. This can only be construed as meaning that the suspension of hostilities ought not to be insisted upon. It is all right where both parties are willing but a demand for an armistice should not be permitted to prevent mediation.
Referring to the request of the Mexican representatives for an early signing of a protocol, it might be well to remind them that it is impossible to agree upon a protocol until the Mediators have arrived at a plan which promises to restore permanent peace. If Huerta is willing to retire now, there is no objection to his doing so. He can turn the government over to anyone whom he pleases and leave the country. The mediation can then proceed, Huerta’s appointee surrendering to the man selected by the Mediators when mediation is completed.