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44 to which were various documents to which the Secretary refers. says [the italics throughout In this letter the Secretary are the author's]:

 "(1) The government at present existing in Mexico is a de facto government established by military power which has definitely committed itself to the holding of popular elections upon the restoration of domestic peace.

"(2) This de facto government of Mexico, of which General Venustiano Carranza is the chief executive, was recognized by the Government of the United States on October 19, 1915.

"It cannot be said that the de facto government of Mexico is a constitutional government. The de facto government, like the majority of revolutionary governments is of a military character, but, as already stated, that government has committed itself to the holding of elections, and it is confidently expected that the present government will within a reasonable time, be merged in or succeeded by a government organized under the constitution and laws of Mexico.

(6) With regard to the settlement of American claims against the Mexican Republic for injuries to the lives or property of American citizens, the undersigned has the honour to direct your attention to the copy of a letter from Mr. Arredondo (the de facto government's agent in Washington), dated October 7, 1915, and its enclosures heretofore referred to and hereto appended No. 4 and its annexes.

(7) With reference to the assurances given by