Vera Cruz Is Shocked.

New York Times 100 years ago today, February 24, 1913:
Crime Regarded as an Evidence of Despotism's Return.
    VERA CRUZ, Feb. 23.— Notwithstanding private advices were received here this morning of the death of Madero and Suarez, absolutely no official notification has been given of the occurrence.
    The killing of the two former officials has created a profound and painful impression among all classes in Vera Cruz, and while outspoken anti-Maderistas appeared to welcome the news, many prominent citizens and officials declared that the affair was another evidence of despotic rule. The officials, however, declined to be quoted, although some ventured the prediction that Mexicans generally would be inclined to resent the death of the country's recent rulers. There was no sign of a demonstration in Vera Cruz to-day, but a strong undercurrent of feeling prevailed.
    It is reported that Ernesto Madero, the former Finance Minister, will arrive in Vera Cruz to-morrow by special train.
    The newspaper Opinion, of which Francisco N. Arias, a member of the Chamber of Deputies, who has been prominent in his opposition to the Madero Government, prints the following editorial comment:
    "This is the prologue of events none can foresee. It is a question whether it is a typical case of the fugitive law, resting as an indelible stigma on the newest regime. Or will any believe that that brutal act will be considered in the future as necessary to the eradication of a diseased member of the body politic? God must decide.
    "Meanwhile, stunned and perplexed by the most painful impression resulting from the tragedy, we commend our readers to the consideration of this political crime."