John D. Works to Woodrow Wilson

I went over the California situation very carefully last night with Mr. Lane. He is very strongly of the opinion that none of us should interfere with what is going on in the Legislature. He tells me that he is in close touch with Mr. Caminetti who can be thoroughly trusted in the matter and who is of the opinion that nothing will be done of which any foreign nation will have just reason to complain.
I am inclined to believe after this interview with Mr. Lane that he is right and that it would be better, at least for the present, to let things take their course. I think he was looking at it from a little different point of view than my own. He was considering it, I found, from the point of view of the Democratic party and the effect any interference by a Democratic President might have upon the future of that party. I had in mind more particularly the question of conflict that might arise, or complications between our government and other nations. Of course Mr. Lane was broad–minded enough to take that feature into account also.
Unless you see some urgent reason for interference or suggestion on my part I shall feel inclined to follow Mr. Lane’s suggestion and say nothing. Of course anything that I might do after the papers have published the fact of my being called to the White House to consider this question, would be attributed to you and it undoubtedly would be maintained that you were taking the position in opposition to the best interests of California in opposing this measure intended to protect our people from the encroachments of citizens of another nation.
I shall be very glad to hear from you further on the subject if you should desire anything further at my hands.