Gen. Huerta's Plea.

New York Times 100 years ago today, May 10, 1913:
    Provisional President Huerta's politely worded demand for recognition by the United States of the present temporary Government of Mexico is not likely to change the policy of President Wilson in relation to that troubled republic. An equally polite reply may be made without offense and the matter left just where it stands. As for the relations of our Ambassador at the Mexican capital, as he was duly recognized by two former Presidents of the Mexican Republic, they are not likely to be affected seriously by Gen. Huerta's intimation that, while unrecognized, the Provisional Government must abstain "from treating any official matter, with the exception of urgent affairs and ordinary procedure." Treatment of "urgent affairs" and "ordinary procedure" is all we can reasonably expect at present. Gen. Huerta promises that American citizens in Mexico shall have the protection of his Government. As for the settlement of pending American claims, nothing can be done in that direction in the present state of the Mexican treasury. Gen. Huerta's plea means that the Government of Mexico cannot raise funds while the United States withholds recognition; but that reason cannot impel President Wilson to extend formal recognition if he has other good reasons for withholding it.
    Meanwhile the position of Ambassador Wilson is extremely delicate, and it has not been made less so by the iteration from the State Department that he is kept in office because the appointment of a successor would necessarily imply recognition of Gen. Huerta's Government. This explanation is extremely unfair to one of the most tactful and competent members of our Diplomatic Service. Every one can see that there are other and better reasons for retaining Ambassador Wilson in the post he has filled with so great distinction.