Page:The Presidents of the United States, 1789-1914, v. IV.djvu/284

240 LIVES OF THE PRESIDENTS "(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 elec tion in which all will agree to take part ; "(c) The consent of General Huerta to bind himself not to be a candidate for election as presi dent of the republic at this election ; and "(d) The agreement of all parties to abide by the results of the election and co-operate in the most loyal way in organizing and supporting the new administration." The Mexican Government was to be assured that the United States wished to play any part in this settlement which it could play honorably and con sistently. It pledged itself to recognize and assist an administration so set up. Could Mexico give the civilized world a good reason for rejecting these good offices? Mr. Lind executed his delicate mission with singular tact, firmness and good judgment, but the proposals he submitted were rejected in a note of Foreign Minister Gamboa which was laid before the Congress in printed form. This rejection the President was constrained to believe was due to misinformation, first, as to the friendly spirit of the American people in this matter, and, second, be cause they did not believe that the present Adminis tration spoke for the people of the United States.