"The work of the United States' evacuation commission was now over. The
labors of both parties terminated with honor for all concerned."

After the parade the bands and various trade organizations went to
General Henry's headquarters. General Henry in a speech said:

"Alcalde and Citizens: To-day the flag of the United States floats as an
emblem of undisputed authority over the island of Porto Rico, giving
promise of protection to life, of liberty, prosperity and the right to
worship God in accordance with the dictates of conscience. The forty
five States represented by the stars emblazoned on the blue field of
that flag unite in vouchsafing to you prosperity and protection as
citizens of the American Union.

"Your future destiny rests largely with yourselves. Respect the rights
of each other. Do not abuse the government which accords opportunities
to the individual for advancement. Political animosities must be
forgotten in unity and in the recognition of common interests. I
congratulate you all on beginning your public life under new auspices,
free from governmental oppression, and with liberty to advance your own
country's interests by your united efforts."

General Henry then introduced Colonel John B. Castleman, who spoke with
great effect as an old Confederate.

The alcalde replied in part:

"We hope soon to see another star symbolic of our prosperity and of our
membership in the great republic of States. Porto Rico has not accepted
American domination on account of force. She suffered for many years the
evils of error, neglect and persecution, but she had men who studied the
question of government, and who saw in America her redemption and a
guarantee of life, liberty and justice.

"Then we came willingly and freely, hoping, hand in hand with the
greatest of all republics, to advance in civilization and progress, and
to become part of the republic to which we pledge our faith forever."

When the Spanish flag was hauled down all over the island and the Stars
and Stripes raised in its place, General Brooke became the chief
executive of Porto Rico. Actually, but not in name, he was the military
governor of the island. The plan of a military governor for Porto Rico,
to hold until the Washington authorities deem it wise to substitute a
purely civil administration, has not been fully arranged. From October
18 until the plan of the Government has been put into effect, General
Brooke, or the military officer who