er these stories be true or false, it is very well known that the
Spaniards do not treat their prisoners kindly, and there is good ground
for suspicion in this case.

Our Consul was so disturbed by the news that was brought to him, and by
the sights that he saw in the jail, that he sent word to the government in
Washington, asking that warships be sent to Havana to protect the American
prisoners who are in Cuban jails.

There have been, and still are, a number of our citizens under arrest in
Cuba, and the case of Mrs. Rodriguez, about whom you read in Number 16 of
THE GREAT ROUND WORLD, followed so closely by the death of Dr. Ruiz, has
made General Lee feel that the Americans in Cuba need some better
protection than they have at present.

The government however, has refused him the help he asked for, and it is
reported that the Consul-General has sent in his resignation, preferring
to give up his office rather than remain in Cuba without the power to help
his countrymen.

This news has created the greatest excitement. The government denies that
it is true, and declares that General Lee has neither asked for warships
nor sent in his resignation. But signed telegrams come from Havana,
stating that the whole matter is quite true, and that the General cabled
his resignation, so that there might be no delay in its reaching our
government.

Both Houses of Congress are demanding to be told the whole truth about the
matter. Senators, who, as a rule, are very loyal to the government, are
asking for explanations, and insisting that all the papers and letters in
Mr. Olney's hands that relate to the subject shall be given to the
Senate.

Havana is also highly excited. The report that General Lee had asked for
warships set the Spaniards afire. They threatened, and raged, and became
so angry and indignant that the Marquis de Ahumada, the governor of
Havana, was afraid that riots would break out.

He therefore sent for the colonels of the various volunteer troops in the
city, and assured them that the reports were altogether false, and that
Mr. Cleveland and Mr. Olney were the faithful friends of Spain.

Despite the governor's proclamation, the Spaniards openly declare that if
an American man-of-war enters Havana harbor they will attack the American
Consulate, and declare war on the United States.

Meanwhile, people are wondering what turn Cuban affairs will take, after
they are in the hands of the new President.

The Span