Jasper County Democrat, Volume 2, Number 36, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 9 December 1899 — President’s Message. [ARTICLE]

President’s Message.

P' RESIDENT jraXLETS tiM fumitl message art defivtovd to Oangross until the aivwal day md 330 WW words, and m regarded a* cow *6 tbr ■»*** important ever emaum ing freon the W fcctwHonwe. Tbe leading fez Trow* off Sto ws«agr relate to tin* now fftpwmdrarira and to th* financial gaeritam. JsevepcSgnty as to be established ilmrugiHun all the ffc*- „ ipi >iue Islands an! to Jo* peranaurMntHy maintained. Ors govevumeiH ta to be extended Ihremcbovrt tie islands as rape idly as possible. Artetrovtaoi is xnvried to the report of the I’liikpiiines cw«i3Ji!ta**>ai as to why h is imjetssilde for the Facto! States to part - with the isfataids amd ats so the jrreal eontmwia] advaan.&p<* iim bidding them. OvS gw-wuswofl in Onto ■»- der military control is rereunnutaiAfd saatil some substantial jimcws* bas bona made through the medium etf -snffrag*toward the establishment of an intapetndent form of goveramrofl- For IVat* Rita* he asks the appoimnwril of a rivii itjevernor and tin- election Inr the jestfta -rtf a conneil or legislature, pro; .erty and educational qualifications 1e be jo'esrtiibwd foevoters. Immediate legislation is -suggest - ed for Hawaii. On the financial question Tin- Ptvsiibaifl recommends that the gold. standard be provided for by law. and ibe -iMeveribearing obligati*** ■off the l'roiled State* be speeitieally made payable te gold.. The regulation of trusis and gnat e«-<mu*-tr-cial eomliinatioiis so as t* fiwwaiit Tbe stifling of competition, but miitbowt um any way hampering the de*wl< ffaneut off American - masofartwra* and swnunswie. is urged.

The President., in tbe ofsantg paragraph. refers feelingly to the recent death Of Vke-i*resident Holiart and Then jtweeeds in substance as follows; The Fifty-sixth O-mgres* <.»«ineues mi its first regular sessiim mirth The ortMittiy in a eondhion of aaauteal prosper iiy. ">tf tmiversal good m ill among The peqj-fte at home, and in relations of pe»<e- and friendship with every governnatnt .of nbr world. Our foreign Miumame has sbsmui great increase in v«baw and walac. Tto combined imjxrrts and oxpwat* for the year are the largesT ever shown by a s» gle year in all our history. fftatr exports fe for IHHP alone ex<w«ded by au«ne tliiam a billion dollars our imports a:ad exports combined in 1N744. Tbe imports per capita are 29 per ohi less Than in llffWt while the export* per capita are 3b per cent more than in IKJtt. sbwtnteg the ent larged capacity of the Fniled State* a* satisfy the want* of its «n im-rcasnatg population, as well as To esartribtme a* those of the peoples *vf other watitau*. ExjHirts of agricultural prodwts rnwre $784,77G.l 43. Of uiatiuftoTmwd predmrt* we exported in value tPCKtaSC.! ffV «i-wv-ernment receipt* from all tanara* fer The fiscal year ended J une TJit. INfet irwftiwßitag 911.7H5.314.14. part payment off ahe CVwtral Pacific Rail Toad imbbtedoess. agpnegated JWt9,882, l <lW4 Xi. Otsiteaus rofetipfl* fvere $2tei.12H,4N1.4.*. and those fitsan internal revenue $273.4-Tr.KilJM_ For The fiscal Tear the expindilrores mere 30*1<Ktt.r*G4.G2. leaving a detail off For the fiscal year guided Jew 30. IK!TO, the internal reasflmi- rooeipts were increased aismt Condition of tbe Tiwh«n.

Tbe present gratifying sttwatgllb ■♦iff the treasury is shown by l3be CavC iSurt Ihec. 1. 189 M. tile available <easSi balance on* $278.004,K37.'72. of which was in gold coin aud bnfliou. The notions of confidence which prevail ahirwsghoot the country have brought g*M «*»* more getters! use and cnnunn* sweipfl* are now almost entirely paid iu that <*«». The strong eondhion of the vreu-snjry with respect to cosh <m hattd and the favwaMc showing made by thc revenws have xu*Ae it possible for the Heere'tarv off the Tineas -itrr to take action mider the pnwv’i»«u* off •.section 3G91. Rev hs-d Ntatrote*. vdUtuscc to tbe sinking fund. The Trea-suty IVpartment therefore offered to fours those dnrine November FZo.trtSMVSt off the 5 per cent loan of 11*14. -or the 4 per <vsa fund ed loon of HffC, at tlx- ■•nat! tuariaHl price. Tbe stHxvss off this operatStsi w** sufficient to induce the Government to continue tbe offer to purchase l*«ud< to aud including tbe 33d day <ff Ikeoeuaher. instant. _ .

Increased activity iu indurtry. with it* welcome attendant—a longer **nffJbiymeu« for labor at higher wages—give* to the body of the pe<qde a larger power to absorb the circulating medium. It is ffwrthvr true that year by year, with larger atvts* of land under cultivation, the iroevea+nwg volume of agriouh nrai joWlixfs. rtim. corn ami wheat, calls for a larger veQwaar of money supply. In its earlier history the -national banking act seemed to sawwr a rea-soualde avenue through which needful additiwat* to the circulation «>uld taw time to .tame be made. Changing co»dit*<wj* have afrq*air rtktly render<*d it now inoperative to that end. The attention of F-eatgress Is inspect folly iirvil-od to this important ■tatter with the view of ascertaining whether or not such rcasonalde m<>dri*<atsok <aa is- ninth* in tlx* national banking art a* - will render its ♦s-rvk'e more Tv-qtcorwve to the people's needs. To Maintain Gold UtariiiA

I urgently recommend that ’e -uvqqwsn the existing gold standard and to maintain "the parity in vshu of the vh-otos off the two metals (gold and sflveri and the i equal jiower of every dollar at affl tames in the market aud iu tbe payment off debts.” the Secretary off the Ttymswry be given additional power and vharged with the duty to sell United States btmfls , and to employ such -other effemve xneaw* ! as may lw ro-cessary to these ends. Th» authority should include the power to: sell bonds on long and short time, as vow- ' ditions may require, and should prwrade for a rate of interest lower than that j fixed by tbe, act of Jam. 14. MCS. The financial transact tans -off the ffertwsimemt j are conducted upon a gold haws. We \ are maintaining tin- parity off all the money issued or coined by authority off the Government. We are doing these things with tbe mown* at hand. Happily at tbe 1 ire-sent time me are nos compelled to resort to loans to swjqdy gold. It has been done in the pari, however, and mav have to he dwae ■ the: future. It behooves w. therefore, to provide at ante the heri mean* to meet tbe emergency whew it arises, and the heat means are these which at* the assri certain and economical. Owr vecripte s»v equal stir expenditures; dedtaaemt tewmr* tamper create _ alaym. Iri nsjremwve the fuU^aad'nrevotary* power «Tthe Secretary off the Treasury aatd ioapsar ffims <W«dild d and to aphrid the pnesm^pted ■

1 rwtKT 90. hag as tbe remarkable growth ■ off nr Uttwi iudiwtries remains unarcouipiißißoj bo progress oo tbe seas. There w w* luck off . oustitntumal authority for bgastetino. wbbrb shall give to the country ■■ i iiiili— strength commensurate with its hahmCriaE achiecciuents ami with its rank smwac the aattous of the earth. The ■rttkrr gierot nations have not hesitated to 3iid»p« the required means to tlevelop their ihiiythiif as a factor in national defense, ar*. sue- off the surest and speediest neaart off ohtahriag f'>r their producers a shame ih foreign markets. lake vigilance aun4 e«o«« «* our part cannot fail to impotive- o«r situation. The expense is as artchiagr compared to the advantage to be artbexed. . ■- talk Atteatitta to Trusts. Fomsbfnatiias of capital organized into nrwsfis to eawtroi the conditions of trade raroag our ckfeeens. to stifle competition, ttunin pcodactijai and .determine the prices off pewduets awed and omsume.l by the jexupbf are yatdty provoking public discuso* ya. 4 should early claim the attention off the FVaweress. The industrial cimimissi.ou. created by the act of Congress of June t%. IKBtV. has been engug.sl in exnwaded bearings upon th*' disputed quesTi»«« ifcxoffved in the subject of combiroatieots in restraint of trade and compe--BBt6*oi_ They have not yet .simpleted their iiai*esfiiaaitu*u of this subject, and the convftoHnart ami recommendations at which the? may arrive are undetermined. It 5s uttiversilly eomysled that combinanibor* whiwh engross or coutiol the market off aay pacCtcalar kind of metvhandise> or womiwodiiTy necessary to the general <*onlmneniny- hy suppressing natural and ordinary ewmipetitioa. whereby jirices are undm?y eoJfitißeed to the general consumer, amc ebuwxbrtxs not only to the common haw. ftrat aLsss to the public welfare. There Must he- a remedy for the evils involved ss swfhi wegaaizatioas. Whatever power tlbe Fwogress possesses over this most jasuipHTtiaait: subject sh«sil*l be promptly asiMMrSamried and assert cl. A* get to* protect tra.le and commerce agtimtsT icaJaafal restraints and monopoly*- wac* passed by t'ougress the 2d of JmO«_ ISt’tk. The provisions of this statwße .-are- eouaprehensive and stringent. It deefiares every ewarract or combination in She- ffocußi off a trust or otherwise, or conspiracy in. the restraint of trade or cwnaaerwe- among the- several States or with ffbuedcai nanious. to be unlawful. It dea.MwiiiresiTes os a eriniiaal every person who make* any such contract or engages in :aay *mch csimhination, or conspiracy, and ' pcoviihcs a paoishmeut by fine or impris■oaaieuia. It! invests the several t’ireuit CHMnrttsoff Tbe- Faitevi States with jnrisdic tuooi I* peeveuT ansi restrain violations of J Tbe act. and make* it the duty of the •several l otted States district attorneys, umdbir tbe direction, off the Attorney 15enettak to irtrititiite pco**ee*iings in equity to pcevewt and restrain such violations. It farther- ewoffer* upon any person who -JW,ill be- iajKLted in hi* business or property by any other person or corporation by reitsooi «»ff anything forbidden or devil red to be imlawfuL by the act the power- to *w therefor in any Firvuit Court of the Farted States, without respect to the amiwmit iia coattwversy. and to re«-over three-fold the* damage* by him sustained aod nW cost* off tbe suit, including rea--muiiabfte attorney fee*. It will be perceived that tbe aet Ls aimed at every kind of eomibiiniatiiooi in the nature of a trust or 1 nuoaop.-dy bn, restraint of interstate or in!i teffmatbooiil commerce.

Th* pßWfsecwitißn hy the United States ! off offenses warier the aet of IN!*> has been | ffveqiuminDy resorted to in the federal ! e»«art*. auad wrtabfie efforts in the restraint off aatevriate eommeree. suc h us the T)rsuHiiiiß**<»iiiri Freight Association and the Jesuit Traffic Association, hare been suwecesriwffir opposed and suppressed. Sedate legadbttaa; for relief from the j evils off trusts ha* failed to- accomplish ffwffly that object. Thus ta probably due j to a great extent to the fact that the dif- | ffe-terot States take Afferent Tiews as to I the proper way to discriminate between evri tiori iksgErb-MSs combinations and those awweiiatttaats which are beneficial and nee-e-satry to the brndnes* prosperity of the crtßMij. 1* ta apparent that uniformity off hictahattasi upon, thta subject in the several Skate* ta naneh to be desired. It is to he h-ped that sweh uniformity may be obtaiiu»c<l aari that nears may be found for the Fwmrress within tbe limitations of it* ewatriStwlMaAl power so to supplement »» effective rede «4 State legislation as !to snake- a complete system of laws ! thiii inrhuait the United States adequate to | ciaapeH a general observance of the saltt--1 tary rale* to which I have referred. Review off F oversew Relation*. | A review off owr relations with foreign I rials* ta presented with sack recommendations- at* are deemed appropriate, la -spy lari aixaital message I - adverted to I the- riaijas off the Austro-Hungarian doreramcnit for iandemwty for the killing of ! serrate Austrian and Hungarian subjects | by the anatomies of the skate of l*ennI sytvawiia. at Latirtaaer, while suppressing an utetawM! tiuralt off miners. Sept. 10, II NSC. In view of the- verdict off acquittal tvodlervd by the eutsrt before which the sheriff and hta deputies were tried for moirirr. and following the established dsetitee that the Go-verwment may not he held accowaitaMe foe injuries suffered bfjr imlivuteah at th* hands off tbe public aattoritfit* while acting in. the line of riaty te oppressing disturbances of the : pnhilik- peace, thta Governnkent was couriraineri to decltee liability to indemnify \ the swffevrts. “

The Belgian te*verament has mitigated the rertrirttaoM- oa the imp*Mrtation or cattle ffrwtni the Farted States, to which 1 referred te acy lari annual message. A CHWveuitMw off extradttioct with Brazil, sagned Hay 14. 180*7.. has been ratified by She Braaffian Legislature.. The ribirni gsowteg out off th* seizure of the Auorriran-owwed newspuper. the l*anaima Star and lleraAL by the authorities off Otaaahte ha* been settled, after a controversy off several year*. Th* good wiß off Ftdombia toward our cwwatnry ha* becw testitiol anew by the cwvrizxl extewsiwo off factlitie* to the Nicarzgtnaa canal commission te their appaoaichßng texestigattaw of the Uunitmu cawal and other projected routes across th* Irihanw* off Dnriero. Th* contract off the Maritime Canal Fampatay of Xwaragna was declared forfeited by th* Xicaragnaa ttavmant the VMh off Ortoher. on th* groom! of nonfwirtilllWrni wit ton th* ten years'tern stip■toted te th* «o«trart. Th* Maritime ha* lodged a protest | pvrnwiMes Which appear worthy of ronsiderattaa. Thta < tavern went experts that Xwaragaa wff afford the protestants a fkffi and fair to at teg wpoo the merits of the case. The Nicaraguan canal commission, which had been engaged npoa the work of eranaraatten and smmty. tor a ship canal vd its lobarn. and radt it* report, was dzonriyad My SI. aai Jan* lO a new crnmnteafisav haawna an the hthaiina canal n | aai ii j auin the tcona ass th* art awnteri March hr the mar off examining the Amcrican wthauni with a stow to determining Cra a €MM3I mm that Jrifcman, '.» - - * • » - r ..• *

with it« probable cost and other essential details. This commission, under the presidency Of Rear Admiral John G. Walker, U. 8. Jl. (retired), entered promptly upon the work intrusted to it, and is now carrying on examinations in Nicaragua along the route of the Panama canal, and in Darien from the Atlantic, in the neighborhood of the Atrato river, to the Bay of Panama, on the Pacific side. The great importance of this work cannot be too often or too strongly pressed upon the attention of the Congress. American Interest* in China.

The interests of our citixens in that vast empire have not been neglected during the last year. Adequate protection has been secured for our missionaries and some injuries to their property have been redressed. In my message to Congress of Dec. 5, 1808, 1 urged that the recommendation which had been made to the Speaker of the House of Representatives by the Secretary of the Treasury the 14th of June, 1808. for an appropriation for a commission to study the commercial and industrial conditions in the Chinese Empire and report as ta the opportunities for, and obstacles to, the enlargement of markets in China for the raw products and manufactures of the United States, should receive at your hands tbe consideration which its importance and timeliness merited, but the Congress failed to take action. I now renew this recommendation. Paris Exposition of 1900. Preparations for the representation <>f the industries, arts and produets of the United States, at the world’s exposition to lie held in Paris next year continue on an. elaborate and comprehensive scale, thanks to the generous appropriation provided by Congress and to the friendly interest the French Government has shown in furthering a typical exhibit of American progress. There has been allotted to the United States a considerable addition of space. The American exhibit at Paris should, and I am confident will, be an open volume, spreading abroad a clearer knowledge of the worth of our productions and the justice of our claim to an imi>ortaut place in the marts of the world. Cordial Relations with. Germany. Our relations with Germany continue to be most cordial. The Increasing Intffcacy of direct association has been marked during the year by the granting permission in April for the landing on our shores of a cable from Borkuin, Kmdem, on the North Sea..by way of the Azores, and also by the conclusion Sept. 2 of a parcels post convention with the Germnn Empire. The several governments of the empire seem reluctant to admit the natural excellence of our food products and to accept the evidence we con stantly tender of the care with which their purity Is guarded by rigid Inspection from the farm, through the slaughter house and the packing establishments, to the port ot shipment. It is to bo honed that In time the two governments will act iu common accord toward the realization of their common purpose to safeguard the public health and to the insuring of the purity and wholesome, ness of all food products imported by either country from the other. Joint High Commission. in my last annual message I referred to the pending negotiations with Great Britain In respect to the Dominion of Canada. By means of an executive agreement a joint high commission has been created for the purpose of adjusting all unsettled questions between the United States and Canada, embracing twelve subjects, among which were the questions of fur seals, the fisheries of the coast and contiguous inland waters, the Alaskan boundary, the transit of merchandise In bond, the alien labor laws, mining rights, reciprocity in revision of the agreement respecting naval vessels In the great lakes, a more complete marking of parts of the boundary, provision for the conveyance of criminals and for wrecking and salvage. Much progress has been made by the commission towards the adjustment of many ot these questions When it became apparent that an Irreconcilable difference of view was entertained respecting the delimitation of the Alaskan boundary. An adjournment was taken until the boundary should be adjusted by tbe two governments. The subject has been receiving the careful attention which Its Importance demands, with the result that u modus vlvendi for provisional demarcations In the region about the head of Lynn Canal has been agreed upon. Neutrality in Boer War.

This government has maintained an attitude of neutrality in the unfortunate contest between Great Britain and the Boer States of Africa. We have remained faithful to the precept of avoiding entangling alliances as to affairs not of our direct concern.' Had circumstances suggested that the parties to the quarrel would have welcomed uny kindly expression of the hope of the American people that war might be averted good offices would -have been gladly tendered. Upon the withdrawal of the British agent from Pretoria the United States consul was authorized, upon the request of the British government and with the assent of the South African and Orange Free State Governments, to exercise the cnstomary good offices of a neutral for the care of British interests. In the discharge of this function I am happy to say that abundant opportunity has been offered to show the impartiality of this government toward both the combatants. Treaty with Japan. The treaty of commerce and navigation between the United States and Japan Nov. 24, 18M. took effect in accordance with the terms of its nineteenth article the 17th of July last, simultaneously with the enforcement of like treaties with the other powers, except France, whose convention did not go into operation until Aug. 4, the United States being, however, granted np to that date all the privileges ana rights nceorded to French citizens under the old French treaty. Cable to Philippines. The Japanese government has shown a lively Interest in the proposition of thf Pacific Cable Company to udd to Its projected cable lines to Hawaii. Guum nnd the Philippines a branch connection with the coast of Japan. Without repeating the observations of my special message of Fel*. 10. 1809, concerning the necessity of a cable to Manila. I respectfully Invite attention to It. 1 recommend thnt. in ease the Congress should not take measures to bring abont this result by direct action of the government, the postmaster general be authorized to Invite competitive bids for the establishment of a cab!e. Events in Samoa. Important events have occurred in the Samoan Islands. The election, according to the laws and customs of Samoa. of n successor to the late king, Malleton Uuupepa, developed a contest as to the validity of the result, which issue, by the terms of the general act, was to be decided by the chief Justice. Upon his rendering n judgment In favor of Malietou Tnnu, the rival chief. Mataafa. took up arms. The active intervention of American and British war ships became imperative to restore order, at the cost of sanguinary encounters. In this emergency n joint commission of rep. resentattves of the United States. Germany, nnd Great Britain was sent to Samoa to Investigate the situation and proride n temporary remedy. By Its active efforts a peaceful solution was reached for the time being, the kingship being abolished and a provisional government established. Recommendations unanimously made by the commission for a permanent adjustment of the Bamoan question were taken under consideration by the three powers parties to the general act. But the mwe they were examined the more evident It became that a radical change was necessary In the relations of the powers to Samoa. A satisfactory arrangement waa concluded between the governments of Germany and England, by virtue of which England retired from Samoa In view of compensations In other directions, and Itoth powers renounced In favor of the United States all their rights and claims over and In respect to that portion of th* group lying to the east of the 171st degree of west longitude, embracing the islands of Tntulla, Ofoo, Olosengm and Manna. 1 transmit to the Senate, for Its constitutional action thereon, a convention, which, besides the provision* above mentioned, «lao guarantees us the same privileges and conditions hi respect to commerce and eommorctat vessels In all of the Islands of Samoa as those possessed by Germany. Trtsty wfth Spain. My annual message sf last year was necessarily devoted in great part to a consideration of the Spanish war, and of the results It wrought and the conditions It Imposed for the ttture. lam gratified to announce that

V the treaty of peace has restored friendly relations between the two powers. Effect has been given to its most important provisions. Home Buie for Cuba. The withdrawal of tbe authority of Spain from the Island of Cnba was effected by the Ist of January, so that the full re-establish-ment of peace found the relinquished territory held by us In trust for the Inhabitants, maintaining, under the direction off the executive, such government and control therein as should conserve public order, restore the productive conditions of peace, so long disturbed by tbe Instability and disorder which prevailed for the greater part of the preceding three decades, and build up that tranquil development of the domestic state whereby utone can be realized tbe high purpose, as proclaimed in the joint resolution adopted by the Congress the 19th of April, 1898, by which the Ln'.ted States disclaimed any disposition or Intention to exercise sovereignty, jurisdiction or control over Cnba, except for the pacification thereof, and asserted its determination when that was accomplished to leave the government and control of the Island to its people. The pledge contained In this resolution is of the highest honorable obligation and must be sacredly kept. America’s Great Responsibility.

This nation has assumed before the world a grave responsibility for the future good government of Cuba. We have accepted a trust, the fulfillment of which calls ror the sternest Integrity of purpose and the exercise of the highest wisdom. The new Cuba yet to arise from the ashes of the past must ueds be bouud to us by ties of singular Intimacy and strength If Its enduring welfare Is to be assured. Whether those ties shall he organic or conventional, the destinies of Cuba are In some rightful form and manner Irrevocably linked with our own. but how and how far Is for the future to determine in the ripeness of events. Whatever be the outcome, we must see to It that free Cuba be a reality, not a tome: a perfect entity, not a hasty experiment bearing within Itself the elements of failure.

By the treaty of peace the Spanish people on the island have until April 11, 1900, to elect whether they will remain citizens of Spain or become citizens of Cuba. Until then It cannot be definitely ascertained who shall be entitled to participate In the formation of the government of Cuba. By that time the results of the census will haye been tabulated and we shnll proceed to provide for elections which will commit tile municipal governments of the island to the officers elected by the people. Meantime and so long as We exercise control over the island the products of Cuba should have a market In the United States on as good terms and with as favorable rates of duty as are given to the West India Islands under treaties of reciprocity which shall be made. Diplomatic Relations Resumed.

Following the exchange of ratifications of the treaty of peace the two governments accredited ministers to each other. Spain sending to Washington the I)nke of Arcos, an eminent diplomatist, previously stationed In Mexico, while the United States transferred to Madrid Bellamy Storer, Its minister at Brussels. This was followed by the respective appointment of consuls, thereby fully resuming the relations Interrupted by the war. Judicial intercourse between the courts of Cuba and Porto Rico and of Spain has been established, as provided by the treaty ot peace. The Cuban political prisoners lu Spanish penal stations have been and are being relensed and returned to tbelr homes In accordance with article <> of the treaty. Negotiations are about to he had for defining the conventional relations between the two countries, which fell into abeyance by reason of the war. X trust that those will Include a favorable arrangement for commercial reciprocity under the terms of sections 3 and 4 of the current tariff act. Venezuela Boundary Award. , Tbe international commission of arbitration. appointed under the Anglo-Venezuelan treaty of 1897. rendered an award. Oct. 3 last, whereby the boundary line between Venezuela and British Guiana Is determined, thus ending a controversy which has existed for the greater part of the century. The award, as to which the arbitrators were unanimous, while not meeting the extreme contention of either party, gives to Great Britain a large share of the Interior territory in dispute and to Venezuela the entire mouth of the Orinoco, Including Barlma Point and the Caribbean littoral for some distance to the eastward. The decision appears to be equally satisfactory to both parties. Treaties Under Tariff Act. The fourth section of the tariff act. approved July 24, 1897, appears to provide only for commercial treaties which should be entered Into by the President and also ratified by the Senate within two years from Its passage. Owing to delays, Inevitable In negotiations of this nature, none of the treaties Initiated under that section could be concluded In time for ratification by the Senate prior to its adjournment tbe 4th of March fasti Some of the pending negotin tlons, however, were near conclusion at that time, and the resulting conventions have since been signed by the plenipotentiaries. of reciprocity have been signed during the congressional recess with Great Britain for the respective colonies of British Guiana. Barbados, Bermuda, Jamaica and Turks and Caicos Islands, and with the Republic of Nicaragua. Important reciprocal conventions have also qeen concluded with France and with the Argentine Republic. The Interest taken by the,various States forming the International Uni n of Amer can Republics In the work of Its organic bureau is evidenced by the fact that for the first time since Its creatlou In 1890 all the republics of South and Central America are now represented In it. Its maintenance Is therefore assured for the next ten years. Peace CongrtM at The Hague. In response to the Invitation of his majesty the Emperor of Russia, delegates from twenty-six countries were assembled at The Hague May 18, as members of a conference In the Interest of peace. The final act of the conference Includes conventions upon the amelioration of the laws and customs of war on land, the adaptation *o maritime warfare of the principles of the Genera convention of 1864 and the extension of judicial methods to International cases. The convention for the pacific settlement of international conflicts embodies the leading features of the American plan, with such modifications as were rendered necessary by the great diversity of views and Interests represented by the delegates. While earnestly promoting the Idea of establishing a permanent International tribunal, the delegation of the United States was not unmindful of the Inconveniences which might arise from an obtrusive exercise of mediation, and In signing the convention carefully ftlarded the historic position of the United tates. Increase in Army. Since my last annual message and in obe,lienee to the acts of the Congress of April 22 and 26, 1898. the remaining volunteer force enlisted for the Spunlsh war, consist ing of 34,834 regulars and 110.202 volunteers, with over 6,000 volunteer officers, has been discharged from the military service. By the act of March 2, 1899. Congresff/ave authority to Increase the regular artuy ta, a maximum not exceeding 65,000 enlisted men and to enlist a force of 35,000 volunteers, to be recruited from the country at large. By virtue of this authority the regular army has been increased to the number of 61,999 enlisted men and 2,248 officers, and new vol. unteer regiments have been organised aggregating 33.050 enlisted men aqd 1,924 officers. Two of these volunteer regiments are made up of colored men, with colored Une officers. The new troops to take the places of those returning from the Philippines have been transported to Manila to tbe number of 681 officers snd 26,322 enlisted men of the regular nnny, and 591 officers and 15,386 enlisted men of the new volunteer force, while 504 officers and 14,119 men of the volunteer forte ore on the ocean en route to Manila. The force now In Manila consists of 905 officers and 30.578 regulars and 594 officers and 15,388 of the volunteers, making an aggregate of 1,499 officers and 45,966 men. When the troops now under orders shall reach Manila, the force In the archipelago will comprise 2,051 officers and 03,488 men. During the last jrear we have reduced our force In Cnba and Porto Rico. Postal Needs in Island*. In restoring peaceful conditions, orderly role and civic progress In Culm, Porto Rico and, so far ns practicable, In the Philippines, the rehabilitation off the postal service has been an essential and Important part of the work. American trained officials have been assigned to the directing and executive post tlons, while natives have t|fc4 chiefly employed In making up the body of the force. The development orthe service in all of the islands has been rapid and aocceaafful. It has moved forward on American lines, with a'mfhssjriwn tbepeople”msil'lsriHties far greater and more reliable than any they have ever before enjoyed.

Fortunately, since the revival es pr asp era ns times the revenues have grown mark Caster than the expenditures, and there Is e»t«f Indication that a short period will witness the obliteration of the annual deficit. Reforms suggested in the report off the Postmaster General, would. In his opinion, wet only put the postal service at owe* on a self-sustaining basis, and I commend the subject to the consideration of the Congress. Naval Prestige Maintained. The navy has maintained the spirit sad high efficiency which have always characterised that service, and has lost none of the gallantry in heroic action which has «dgnalized Its brilliant and glorious past. The nation has equal pride in its early and later achievements. Its habitual readiness far every emergency has won the confidence and admiration of the country. The people are Interested In the contlnned preparation and prestige of the navy and will Justify liberal appropriations for Its maintenance and Improvement. I heartily concur In the recommendations for the Increase of the navy, as suggested by the Secretary. Army and Navy Pension*. The 30th of June. 1899. the pension roll off the United States numbered 991,519. These Include the pensioners of the army and navy in all our wars. The number added to the rolls during the year was 40,991. The number dropped was 43,186, and tbe number of claims disallowed Was 107,919. The amount disbursed 1 for army and navy pensions during the year was $138,355,052.95, which was .<1.651,461.61 less than the sum of appropriations. Preliminary Work off Census. In accordance with the act of Congress approved March 3i-4K». the preliminary wock in connection with the twelfth census is now fully under way. The officers requited for the proper administration of the duties imposed have l*eou selected. The provision for securing a proper enumeration of the pops lation, as well as to secure evidence of the industrial growth of the nation. Is broader and more comprehensive than any similar legislation in the past. Under the authority of the act of Congress approved July 7, 1898, the commission, con sisting of the Secretary of the Terasury, the Attorney General and the Secretary of In. terlor. has made an agreement of settlement, which has had my approval, of the indebt edness to the government growing out oi the issue of itonds to aid in the construction of the Central Pacific and Western Pacific railroads. The agreement secures to the government the principal and interest c 4 said bonds, amounting to 58,812,715.48. The whole Indebtedness was about $3(1.000,009. more than half of which consisted of accrued interest, for which sum the govern ment has realized the entire amount, less about $6,000,000, within a period of two years. Progress of Agriculture. The Department of Agriculture is constantly consulting the needs of producers in all the States aud Territories. It is introducing seeds and plants of great value and promoting fully diversification of crops. Grains, grasses, fruits, legumes and vegetables are Imported for all parts of the United States. Under this encouragement the sugar beet factory multiplies In the North and far West seini-tropical plants are sent to The South and congenial climates are sought for the choice productions of the far East. The subject of Irrigation when it is of vital importance to the people Is being carefully stndled. Markets are being sought and opened up lor surplus farm and factory products in Europe and Asia. The outlook for the education of the young farmer through agricultural college and experimental stations. with opportunities given to specialize In the department of agriculture, is very promising. There is widespread Interest in the Improvement of our public highways at the present time, and the Department off Agriculture is co-operating with the people in each locality In making the l>est possible roads from local material and In experimenting with steel tracks. r Philippine Inland Problem. Dec. 10. 1898, the treaty of peace between the United States and Spain was signed. It provided, among other things, that Spain should cede to the United States the archipelago known ns the Phlllpphie Islands, that the United States shonld pa? Spain the sum of $20,000,000, and that the civil rights and political status of the native inhabitants of the territories thus ceded to the United States should be determined by the Congress. The treaty was ratified by the Senate Feb. 6, 1899, and by the government of Spain March 1 following. The ratifications were exchanged April 14, and the treaty publicly proclaimed. March 2 the Congress voted the sum contemplated by the treaty and the amount was paid over to the Spanish government May 1. In this manner the Philippines came to the United States. Tbe islands were ceded by the government of Spain, which had been In undisputed possession of them for centuries. They were accepted, not merely by onr authorized commissioners In Paris, under the direction of the executive, but by the constitutional im well-considered action of the representative* of the people of the United States In both bouses of Congress. I had every reason to believe, and I still believe, that this transfer of sovereignty was in accordance with the wishes and the aspirations of the great mass of the Filipino people. From the earliest moment no opportunity was lost of assuring the people of the Islands Of our ardent desire for their welfare and off the Intention of thin government to do everything possible to advance their lntererts. In mv order of May 19, 1898. the commander of the military expedition dispatched to the Philippines was Instructed to declare that we came not to make war upon the people that conntry, “nor upon any party or rac tlon among them, but to protect theaa tn their homes. In their employments and In their personal and religious rights. , Dec. 21, after the treaty was signed, the commander of the forces of occupation was instructed “to announce and proclaim In the most public manner that we come, not as Invaders and conquerors, but as friends, to protect the natives In their homes. In tbelr employments and In their personal and religious rights.” The same day, while ord«* Ing Gen. Otis to see that the peace shonld be preserved In Iloilo, he was admonished that: “It Is most important that there should be no conflict with the Insurgents. Jan. 1, 1899, urgent order* were rriGrtited that the kindly Intentions of this government should be In every possible way communicated to the insurgents. The 21st of January 1 announced my Intention of dispatch!ug to Maffila a commission composed of -three gentlemen of tne highest character and distinction, thoroughly acquainted with the Orient, who, in association with Admiral Dewey and MaJ. Gen. Otis, were Instructed to “facilitate themost humane and effective extension of authority throughout the Islands, and to secure with the least possible delay the benefits of a wise and generous protection or ute ana property to the Inhabitants." These gentlemen were Dr. Jacob GonM Schurrjan, president of Cornell University. Charles Denby, for many years minister to China, and Prof. Dean C. Worcester, of the University of Michigan, who tajUanade a most careful study of life la the Philippine*.

Aguinaldo’s Claim Disprove*. While the treaty of peace was under con federation Ip the Senate these comnUmltmera set out on thefr mission of good will and liberation. But before their arrival at Manila the sinister ambition of a few leaders of the Filipinos had created a situation full at embarassment for ns and most grievous In Its consequences to themselves. The dear and Impartial preliminary report sf the commissioners, which 1 transmit herewith, gives so lucid and comprehensive a history of the present Insurrectionary movement that the story need not be here repeated. It is enough to say that the claim of the rebel leader that he was promised independence by nny officer of the United States In return for his assist ance has no foundation _ln fact and la categorlcally denied by the very witnesses who were called to prove It. The most the Insurgent Wader hoped for when be «»eMrk to Manila was the liberation of the islands from the Spanish control, which they had been laboring for years without suceess to throw off. ’ . The prompt accomplishment of this work by the American army and navy gave him other Ideas and ambitions, and Insidloss suggestions from various quarters perverted the purposes and Intentions with which he bad taken no arms. No sooner had surarmy captured Manila than the Filipino farces began to assume an attitude of suspicion and hostility which the Utmost efforts at our officers and troops were tmahle taffisarm or modify. Their kindness and forbearance were taken aa a proof sf cowardice. a&fe'ixr.srss: Mth, 'bt-SeMte of the rolled Stetee for a vote upon the treaty, an attack, evidently th c P Amerio* ij*U nes.^hlch*resulted* n a terribly destructive and sanguinary repulse of the Insurgents. +—i. — Order of KxtermLaatioa. - Ten day* later as order of the tnsurgeat government was Issued to its adhereats Whs

IRK , . - ' % nets JduTnt 8 •'e*ork ihe night off the 15(h “yjffsSidirtsii** ’hzNto[ famnirti^ wbjlhll. IwmSm A cawMOb firHhgr goad fortune into the hand* off oor lErita and they wete »Mc to take Siam L a to raw sa» wfakh (Mr arrival In flaaih. What they fooad can beat he act lank la Ihtr on maaffia: •‘Dfriw-»Mc as war Is. the we We were attacked by a buML aditsMtarsws and enthodastke army- No alternative was left to ns except igwsaaiaMh* retreat- Whatever the fntnre off tbe PMBoplaeo may be. there is no course «pa to os now except the prosecwtfea off the war until the insurgent* are reduced toaahsatadaaL Tk^taa-bee-B a* time since the Artmths ass the I Spanish squadron by Admiral Dewey when 1 it was possible to withdraw our taw, taw tbe islands, either with honor to aarniiw or with safety to the luhakdtant*."' The course thus cieuh in ffirated ha* been unflinchingly partuued- The teheUaw must be put dawn. Clvß goveramrM cannot he thoroughly established amtll order I* *eWltk a devotion and gallantry worthy ass its most htilSaal history, (he Sumy, ahly and loyally assisted by the navy, ban carried on this unwelcome, hut atm righteous campaign with richly deserted tacma. Although their operations have been somewhat interacted and checked by * rainy season of unusual rbdeucr and dantho. they hare gained ground steadily In every direction, and now kwk forward confidently to a speedy csmpletiim of their task. The unfavorable circumstances connected with » active campaign have art been permitted to Interfere with the equally Important work of ncoartrertko.

American Kale in Bala. The authorities off th* Sain Islands have accepted the succession off the railed Staten to the rights off Sftix and onr fiag fioots over that territory, Th* Mth ass Aaffart, 1899, Brig. 6ml J. C. Bates. C. S. Totuteers. negotiated *■ agreement with the Sultan and Ids principal chiefs, which 1 transmit herewith. By article I, the sawerrtgnty off the United States over the whole archipelago of Salu and its hpidiaito I* declared and acknowledged. The United States wilt give fhU protection tn the Sub an tn case any foreign nation shonld attempt to import upon kn. The United States will not sWI aay idari off the Sulu archipelago to any foreign nation without the roauent ass the Sultan. Any slave In the airMpertgo ass Sulu shall have the right to purchase freedom. The agreement by Gen. Bates wan made subject to comfirmatian by the Resident and to future modifications, Thda agreement is not to he deemed in anyway to authorize or give the consent ass the United States to the existence off stavety In the Sola archipelago. 1 commune«t-»then* farts to the Oaugrert tar its inform itkim and action. Everything indicates that with the yedy suppression off the Tagalo re he Bum life in the archipelago will soon tvsuate Its ordteary course nr der the protection off onr savereignty. and the people off those favored islands will enjoy a prosperity and n freedom which tbry have never before known. Now Rente with Crtgren. Tbe future government off the Phtßspinen tests with the Congress off the Untied States. Tbe islands lie under the shelter of oor Bag. They are ours by every title off law and equity. They cannot be abandoned. Iff we desert them we leave them at —re to anarchy and finally to tarhartsaa. We Bans them, a golden apple off discord, among the rival powers, no owe of which couM permit another to seine them unqoertl—ed. Their rich plains and valley* would be the occur of endless strife and btaadshrd. Tbe suggertßh has been mode that we could renounce jtnr authority over the Islands and. glpHSg them iodependear». could retain a protectorate over them. This preposition wilt »M be found. I am sure, worthy of your serious attention. Such an arrange ment would Involve at the satict a crml breach off faith. It would place the pence able and loyal majority, n* ask anthhag better than to accept oor authority, at the mercy off the nfmciti of armed laiutgtm*. It would make us wipmilkb Car the arts off the tn—nent leader* and give as an power ta control theaa. It would charge os with the task off protecting them against each other and defending them against any he eign power with which they-chum ta quarrel- In short, it would take from th* Congress off the United States the power *( declaring war and vert that tienmaduan prerogative la the Tagalsn leader ass the hour. It does not seem derivable that I ria—K recommend at this time a sweeter and final form off government far throe Mauds. When pence shall he re sued It mfU he the duty off Congress to usuMimt a plan of rinmnnsmt which shall establish and ssalntaria free dim and order and pence In the Philipp ten. Until Congress shall have made inawa the formal express*— off Its wHL I shall an* the authority vested In so* by the ConUlutlaa and the statutes to aphaU the sovereignty of the United States tn these dtatsut islands as tn all ether pKrca shut oar Bag right fatly Baste. has nexatloa l approved Jair'l. BBL While by that re aslntl— the Benahße ass Banal ns an Independent nation waweatfayfinhed. Its property anSupanSSaws vested In th* United gtrtmrets rumpkeitv iMahnahmewt far effected. The people ass then* Maads are entitled to the benefits and prtvßegtn ass sur Constitution. It I* manifestly Impost sat, therefore. be^pnjued^aa into judicial district, providing far the appolataaeat ass n fudge and other proper officers, and mthada off procedure In appellate proceeding*, and that th* government of this and prodded for. _ _ __ A necessity far Immediate liddulw relief exists ia the Territecy of Alaska, tab Manually the only law ptoriffing a riril government far this tevtUmy Is the art off May 17, 1881- This la meager lu ll* jarari shorn and Is fitted mly lbr the odmbdstm tlon of affairs In a corottyjppurs^^tehoh* priwthTw' vmlhdtstX tline territorial organization dSfsfi he ptwrided. Government off Forts Rica. I recommend that hgHlntfsn to the anme end he had with isference tn thegavunmint of Porto Blco. The Mmejjsjffi* sass the fwfltTbdand. It riTdtafiiahle that th* govern meat off the inland wader th* law sff hriligerent right, now aailnclined through th* Executive Department, th«n»i b*gapi rude! by an admbdstratlaa entirely dtfihlbim that CmgewpM shwhr Che rtgsnUntion at a t imp irary gartrumeaff. whteh shaß provide for the appoint—t by Che Uteri dent, nub jeette t infiimaUia by th* Beaut*, of a governor and nurh other officers as th* general triaad may subjects off a local autarr as* partaking off a federal character n krqirisMvt camacfl, acriTo ke subject to the tgwS'tffjflje and utmost be yewfouudty wad Ste ri them M^ae^riat nevrm^pxm