Walter Hines Page to William Jennings Bryan

The abbreviated dialogue of my telegram of November 11, 7 p. m., I fear was misleading. Sir Edward Gray was definitely, positive, exceedingly friendly, even cordial, and he seemed to me to give all we asked. I did not understand your instructions to mean that you wish him to take the initiative against Huerta and this he made plain, cordially and emphatically. He does not regard it as proper for his Government to take aggressive attitude because that would imply active British intervention; which the British Government does not regard as its duty nor does it regard such active intervention as desirde d by the United States. But if Huerta shows by word or act that he counts on British aid in any form he will be promptly informed that the British Government will not give it. This seemed to me wholly satisfactory. Any further course wlould imply British readiness for active intervention which as I understand it we do not ask for nor desire. Please inform me if I am mistaken. Sir Edward Gray left question of possible mediation between Huerta and the United States open teill he should hear from other Governments, when it may be they will voluntarily advise Huerta to retire. I will promptly report what he says on that hend. His talk was in letter and spirit in keeping with Prime Minister’s Guildhall speech which Sir Edward inspired and possibly dictated. This speech has been enthusiastically received here by whole press and nation and a wave of cordial American friendship is now sweeping over the whole Kingdom. At many public dinners and gatherings intense satisfaction is expressed at cordial understanding as voiced by Prime Minister We feel here that we have gained our whole wish and contention and the British Government and Nation understand that our whole contention has been granted.
My suggestion about publication was meant to change tone of American yellow press and to pull Carden’s teeth. I will see Sir Edward at the earliest possible hour about consent to publication.
Only remaining difficulty as it appears to me is Carden about whom I sent separate telegram. I heartily hope the British situation here seems satisfactory to you and the President. oIt is so meant to be by the British Government and by the Nation.
Cowdray publishes letter this morning denying any financial aid to Huerta except a small subscription through the Bank of Mexico ( ? ) of his loans. General feeling towards Huerta has completely changed here. His elimination is regarded as certain and imminent and as desirable; but they regard this as the task of the United States with their cordial approval and not as their task.