out in February, 1895."

He goes on to say that the friendly offers of mediation made in April,
1896, by this Government, were refused by Spain. He mentions the cruel
policy of driving the peasants into the towns, the abuse of the rights
of war which were perpetrated, speaks of Minister Woodford's mission,
and finally shows that action on our part was rendered unnecessary by
the death of Canovas and the coming in to power of Sagasta.

He declares that the present Government of Spain seems determined to
give liberal Home Rule to the island of Cuba, and to give it in spite of
the serious objections raised by certain powerful political parties in
Spain.

In the face of these facts, he asks Congress to give Spain time, before
making any demands, to end the war.

He refuses to recognize the belligerency of Cuba, and bases his decision
on the action taken by President Grant in 1875, when the situation in
Cuba was similar to the present state of affairs.

He quotes the following words of General Grant:

"A recognition of the independence of Cuba being, in my opinion,
impracticable and indefensible, the question which next presents itself
is that of the recognition of belligerent rights in the parties to the
contest. In a former message to Congress I had occasion to consider this
question, and reached the conclusion that the conflict in Cuba, dreadful
and devastating as were its incidents, did not rise to the fearful
dignity of war...."

He declares that as regards filibustering, he thinks the Government has
simply done its duty. He leaves the Cuban question practically as it
was, asking Congress to wait and see how the Home Rule principle works
before taking any further steps.

He promises that if, in the future, intervention in the affairs of Cuba
seems necessary, he will face the necessity without hesitation.

HAWAIIAN ANNEXATION is treated very clearly by President McKinley.

He thinks the time is ripe for annexation, and recommends that the
treaty shall be confirmed as speedily as possible.

He seems to think there is no doubt that Congress will pass the treaty,
for he goes on to recommend that Home Rule shall be given to Hawaiians
as soon as the islands shall belong to the United States.

He reports progress on THE NICARAGUA CANAL, states that the surveys and
examinations are being made, and that he hopes soon to have a full
statement to submit to Congress.

THE SEALING QUESTION received some consideration