Pike County Democrat, Volume 30, Number 32, Petersburg, Pike County, 15 December 1899 — Page 2

Chief Executive’s Annual Comi munication Sent to the Congresst. IIS VIEW OF THE COUNTRY’S CONDITION. n*MMlkt iht Nktlon'i Orowlni Commen*, and Farora the Uold Standard- Pled (tea i to Cuba Moat bo Kept—The Philippine Qneotton Dlaeoaoed—Other Matters of Interest.

Washington,Dec. 5.—The president's message, as sent to congress, makes 15,000 words. The following is a succinct synopsis: The message says congress Is called to mourn the death of Vice-President Hobart, whose private life was pure and elevated, while his public career was even distinguished by lsrge capacity, stainless Integrity and exalted motives. FINANCIAL. CONDITION. Oar Commerce Shows Orest Increase— Kecommrnds the Gold Standard. The country Is In a condition of unusual prosperity, of universal good will among the people at home and In relations or peace and friendship witfj every government In the world. Our foreign commerce has shown great increase. Combined Imports are the largest ever shown by a single year In all our history. For 1S99 alone they exceeded by more than $1,000,000,000 our Imports and exports combined In 1870. Of manufactured products we exported $338,592,146. The only years In all our history when the products of our manufactories sold abroad exceeded those bought abroad were 1888 and 1399. Government receipts, Including $11 • 198,314.14, part payment of the Central Pacific railroad Indebtedness, aggregated $610,982,004.35. Customs receipts were $200,128,481.75, and those from Internal revenue were $273,437,161.51. For the fiscal year the expenditures were $700,593,564.02, leaving a deficit of $89,111,659.67. The secretary of the troasury estimates that the receipts for the current fiscal year will leave a surplus of $40,000,000. For the year ended June 30, 1899, the internal revenue receipts were increased about $100,000,000. The present gratifying strength of the treasury Is shown by the fact that on December 1, 181*9, the available cash bal vin e was $278,004,837.72, of which $239,"ft4.'>05.36 was In gold coin .and bullion. Customs receipts are now almost entirely paid In grold.

Receipts exceeded expenditures for the first five months of the current fiscal year by $13,413,389.91, and the secretary of the treasury estimates that there will be a surplus of $40,090,000 at the end of the year. It was deemed advisable to resume compliance with the sinking fund law, ignored for eight years because of deficiencies. The treasury department purchased during November $18,4 )S,G30 of beads, taa- i turing 1004 and 1007. The premium paid was $2,253,531, and tiie net saving in interest was about 82,885,000. Increased no ivlty in industry, with Its welcome attei. ant, a larger employment for labor at higher wages, gives to the body of the people a larger power to absorb the circulating medium. Congress *3 invited to ascertain whether or not such reasonable modifications can be made'In the national banking act as will render its •ervlee more responsive to the people's needs. The president again urges that national banks be authorized to organise with a capital of $25,000, and that to support the existing gold standard and to | maintain "the parity in value of the coins of gold and silver and the equal power of every dollar in the market and in the payment of debts,” the secretary of the treasury be charged with the duty to sell United States bonds and to employ such other effective means as may be necessary to these ends. While there is now no commercial fright, the present is the most fiting time to make adequate provision to Insure the continuance of the confidence In the ability and purpose of the government to meet all its obligations in the money “which the civilized world recognizes as the best." "The financial transactions of the government are conducted upon a gold basis," the president says. "We receive gold when we sell United States bonds and use gold for their payment. We are maintaining the parity of all the money issued or coined by authority of the government. We are doing these things with the means at hand. Happily, at the present time, we are not compelled to resort to loans to supply gold. It may have had to be done in the future. It behooves us, therefore, to provide at once the best means to meet the emergency when it arises. Those now authorized have the virtue neither -of directness nor economy. "In this connection, I repeat my former recommendation that a portion of the gold holdings shall be placed in a trust fund, from which greenbacks shall be redeemed upon presentation, but when once re--deemed shall not thereafter be paid out.' -except for gold.” The value of an American merchant marine to the extension of our commercial ■-trade and the strengthening of our power upon the sea invites the immediate action -or congress. The past year has recorded exceptional activity in our ship yards. Our coast trade shows results for the past year unequaled in our records or those of any other power. We shall fail to realize our opportunities, however, if we blind ourselves to the necessity of securing our share in the valuable carrying trade of the world. "Last year American vessels transported a smaller share of our exports and imports than during any former year in all our history, the president says, and the measure of our dependence upon foreign ■shipping was painfully manifested to our people. The other great nations have not hesitated to adopt the required means to develop their shipping as a factor in national defense, and, as one of the surest -and speediest means of obtaining for their producers a share in foreign markets. NLtdke vigilance and effort on our part can "v not fall to improve our situation, which is regarded with humiliation at home and with surprise abroad. Even the seeming sacrifices which at the beginning may be involved will be offset later by more than equivalent gains. I am satisfied the Judgment of the country favors the policy -of aid to our merchant marine.” OUR RELATIONS WITH CUBA. We Mast See That Free Cuba be a Reality, Not a Hasty Experiment. In the joint resolution adopted by the -congress on April 19, 1898, the United .States disclaimed any disposition or intention to exercise sovereignty, jurisdiction of control ov# Cuba, except for the .pacification thereof, and asserted its deiti urination when that was accomplished to leavo the government and control of the island to its people. "The pledge contained in this resolution," the president •ays. "is of the highest honorable obligation, and must be sacredly kept. I belieye that substantial progress has been made in this direction. Ail the administrative measures adopted in Cuba have aimed to fit it for a regenerated existence. This nation has assumed before toe world a grave responsibility for the future good government of Cuba. Wo have accepted a trust, the fulfillment of which calls for 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 needs be bound to us by ties of singular intimacy and -strength if its enduring welfare is to be assured. We must see to it that free Cuba be a reality, not a name, a perfect entity, not a hasty experiment bearing within itself the elements of failure. The .areatest blessing which can come to Cuba is the restoration of her agricultural and Industrial prosperity, which5 will give employment to idle men and re-establish the pursuits of peace. This Is her chief and immediate need. The census of the islwas completed on November 80. By

th« treaty of peace, the Spanish people ou the island have until April 11, l5oo, to elect whether they will remain citizen* of Spain or become citisens of Cuba. By that time the results of the census will have been tabulated,' and we shall proceed to provide for elections, which will commit the municipal governments of the island to the officers elected by the people. The experience thus acquired will prove of great value, establishing a general system of Independent government for the island. 80 long as we exercise control over the island the produots of^ Cuba should have a market in the United* States on as good terms and with as favorable taxes of duty as are given to the West Indian islands under treaties of reciprocity which shall be made." * - THE PHILIPPINE: ISLANDS. The Story of How They 'Were Acquired Belated, and the Part Aguinaldo Has Played. The treaty of peace, between the United States and Spain provided what Spain should cede to the United States the archipelago known as the Philippine islands, that the United States should pay Spain 120,000,000, 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 congress. *‘I had every reason to believe," the president says, "and 1 still believe that this transfer or sovereignty was in accordance with the wishes and the aspirations of the great mass of the Filipino people. From the earliest moment no opportuni - ty was lost of assuring them of our arddent desire for their welfare. In my order of May IS*. 189S, the commander of the military expedition was instructed to say that we came not to make war upon the people of |hat country, ‘nor upon the party or faction among them, but to protect them in their homes, in their employments. and in their personal an& religious rights.' That there should be uo doubt as to the paramount authority there, on the 17th day of August it was directed that ‘there must be no joint occupation with the insurgents,’ that the United States must preserve the peace within the territory occupied by their military and naval forces; that the Insurgents and all others must recognize the military occupation and authority of the United States. On the 21st of December, after the treaty was signed, the commander of the forces of occupation was instructed ‘to announce and proclaim in the most public manner that welcome, not as invaders, as conquerors, but as friends, to protect the natives in their homes, in their employments, and: in their personal and religious rights.’ On the same day, while ordering Gen. Otis to see that the peace should be preserved in Iloilo, he was admonished that it is most important that there should be no conflict with the Insurgents.’ On the 21st of January 1 announced my intention of dispatching to Manila a commission composed of tnreo gentlemen of the highest character and distinction, thoroughly acquainted with the orient, who, in association with Admiral Dewey and Maj.-Gen. Otis, were instructed ‘to facilitate the most humane and effective extension of authority throughout the islands, and to secure with the least possible delay the beuetlts of a wise and generous protection of life and property to the inhabitants.’ No Promises to AgunmiUo. “While the treaty of peace was under consideration in the senate these commis

slonera set out on their 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 of embarrassment for us and most grievous in its consequences to themselves. The claim of the.rebel leader that he was promised independence by any officer of the United States in return for his assistance has no foundation in fact and is categorically denied by the very witnesses who were called to prove it. The most the insurgent leader IfOpea for when he came back to Manila was the liberation of the islands from the Spanish control, which they had been laboring for years without success to throw off. The prompt accomplishment of this work by the American army and navy gave him other ideas and ambitions, and insidious suggestions from various quarters perfected the purposes and intentions with which he had taken up arms. No sooner had our army captured Manila than the Filipino forces began to assume an attitude of suspicion and hostility which the utmost efforts of our officers and troops were unable to disarm or modify. Their kindness and forebearanoe Were taken as proof of cowardice. The Americana Attacked. “The aggressions of the Filipinos continually increased until, finally, just before the time set by the senate of the United States for a vote upon the treaty, an attack, evidently preparted in advance, was made all along the American lines, which resulted in a terribly destructive and sanguinary repulse of the Insurgents. Ten days later an order of the Insurgent government was issued to its adherents who had -remained in Manila, in which Gen. Otis justly observes that ‘for barbarous intent it is unequaled in modern times. It directs that at 8 o’clock on the night of the 15th of February, the ^Mritorlal militia’ shall come together iimhe streets of San Pedro, armed witlfwheir bolos, with guns and ammunition where convenient; that Filipino families only shall be respected, but that all other Individuals, of whatever race they may be, shall be exterminated without any compassion after the extermination of the army of occupation, and adds: ‘Brothers, we must avenge ourselves on the Americana and exterminate them, that we may take ouf revenge tor the Infamies and treacheries, which they have committed upon us. ^ave no compassion upon them; attack with vigor.' "A copy of this fell by good fortune Into the hands of our officers, and they were able to take measures to control the rising. which was actually attempted on the night of February 22, a week later chau was originally contemplated. Considerable numbers of armed Insurgents entered the city by waterways and swamps, and, in concert with confederates Inside, attempted to destroy Manila by fire. They were kept in check during the night and the next day driven out of the city with

ncavy joss. The Commissioners’ Story. "This was the unhappy condition of affairs which confronted our commissioners. What they actually found can best be set forth in their own words: “ ‘Deplorable as war is, the one in which we are now engaged, was unavoidable by us. We were attacked by a bold adventurous and enthusiastic army. No alternative was left to us except ignoratnous retreat. “ ‘It is not to be conceived of that any American would have sanctioned the surrender o£ Manila to the Insurgents. Our obligations to other nations and to the friendly Filipinos and to ourselves and our flag demanded that force should be met by force. There has been na time since the destruction of the Danish squadron by Admiral Dewey wheA it was possible to withdraw our forces from the island, either with honor to ourseives or with safety to the inhabitants.’ ‘‘The courseLthus clearly indicated has been unflinchingly pursued. The rebellion must be put down. Civil government can not be thoroughly established until order Is restored. ‘‘The unfavorable circumstances connected with an active campaign have not been permitted to interfere with the equally Important work of reconstruction. A notable beginning has been made in the establishment of a government in the island of Negros. Its people unreservedly proclaimed allegiance to tne United States and adopted a constitution looking to the establishment of a popular government. The government actually set up eventually proved unsatisfactory to the natives themselves. A new system was put into force. * Government for Negros. "It was ordered that the government of the island of Negros should consist of a military governor, appointed by the United States military governor of the Philippines, and a civil governor and an advisory council elected by the people. The seat of government was fixed at Bacolod. The military governor exercises the supreme executive power. The civil governor advises the military governor on all public civil questions, and presides over the advisory council. He, in general, performs the duties which are performed by secretaries of state.” The advisory council consists of eight members elected by thb people within territorial limits. A voter must be a male dtiaen 21 years old He shall be able to speak, read apd write English, Spanish or Visayan language, or he must own real property worth 1500, or pay a rental on real property of the value of *1,000. He must have resided in the Islands not leas than one year preceding, and iiuihe

district to which he offers to register as a voter, not less than three months Immediately preceding the time he offers to register. He must register. Prior to such registration he shall have paid alt taxes due by him to the government. The military governor has the right to veto all hills or resolutions adopted by the advisory council, and his veto is final if notdtsa^roved by the military governor „ The advisory council dischargee all the ordinary duties of a legislature. The judicial power Is vested In three judges, who are to be appointed bv the military governor of the Island. Inferior couita are to be established. Free public schools are to be established throughout the populous districts of the Island, to which the English Ian- I guage shall be taught. The military governor, sub Sect to the ! approval of the military governor «>f the Philippines, decides all questions not specifically provided for and which do r.ot come under the Jurisdiction of the advisory council. ON TRUSTS AMO COMBINES. They 8hoald Early Claim the Attention of Congrees-The Law of 1890. "Combinations of capital organised Into trusts to control the conditions of trade among our citizens, to stifle competition, limit production and determine the priced of products used and consumed by the people are justly provoking public discussion," Mr. McKinley states, "and should early claim the attention of congress. The subject Is one giving rise to many-divergent views. It Is universally conceded that combinations which en - gross or control the market of any-par-tlcular commodity, by suppressing natural and ordinary competition, whereby prices are unduly enhanced to the general consumer, are obnoxious, not only to the common law, but also to public welfare. Whatever power the congress possesses over this most important subject should be promptly ascertained and asserted. An act to protect trade and commerce against unlawful restraint and monopolies was passed by congress en the 2d of July. 1890. It declares every contract: or combination, or conspiracy In the restraint of trade or commerce among the several states or with foreign nations, to be unlawful. It denominates as a criminal every person who maxes any such contract of engages In any such combination of conspiracy and provides a punishment.' The prosecution by the United States of offenses under the act of 1890 has been freqeuntly resorted to In the federal courts, and notable efforts in the restraint of interstate commerce, such as the Transmlssouri Freight association and the Joint Traffic association, have been successfully opposed and suppressed.

OTHER MATTERS''Ol^INTERKST. Strength of the Army, Alaskan Boundary, Relations with Germany, Etc. The regular army has been Increased 61,999 enlisted men and 2,248 officers, and new volunteer regiments have been organ- ( lzed, aggregating 33,050 enlisted men and 1,524 officers. Two of these volunteer regiments are made up of colored men, with colored line officers. The new trops to the places of those returning from the Philippines have been transported to Manila to the number of 581 officers and 26,322 enlisted men of the regular army, and 594 officers and 15,388 enlisted men of the new volunteer force, while 50-1 officers and 14,119 men of the volunteer force are on the ocean en route to Manila. The force now In Manila consists pf 905 officers and 30,578 regulars and 594 officers and 15,388 of the volunteers, making an aggregate number of 1,499 officers and 45,906 men. When the troops now under orders have reached Manila the force in the archipelago will comprise 2,051 officers and 63,483 men. During the past year we have reduced our forces in Cuba and Porto Rico. In Cuba we now have 334 officers and 10196 enlisted men; in Porto Ricp, 87 officers and 2,855 enlisted men and a battalion of 400 men composed of native Porto Ricans; while stationed throughout the United States are 910 officers and 17,317 men, and in Hawaii 12 officers and 453 enlisted men. About the Alaskan Boundary, By means of an executive agreement, a joint high commission had been created for the purpose of adhiattna ail unsettled questions between the United States and Canada embracing 12 subjects, among which were the question of fur seals, the fisheries of the coast and contiguous inland waters, the Alaskan boundary, ^ho transit of merchandise in bond, the alien labor laws, mining rights, reciprocity in trade, revision of the agreement respecting naval vessels in llu ; reat lakes, a more complete marking oi ..arts of the boundary, provision for the conveyance of criminals, and for wrecking and salvage. Much progress had been made by the commission tovsmrd the adjustment of many of these questions, when it became apparent that an irreconcilable difference of views was entertained respecting the delimitation of the Alaskan boundary. In the failure of an agreement as to the meaning of articles 3 and 4 of the treaty of 1825, between Russia and Great Britain, which defined the boundary between Alaska and Canada, the American commissioners proposed that the subject of the boundary be laid aside and that the remaining questions of difference oe

proceeaea wun, some or wmcn were so far advanced as to assure the probability of a settlement. This being declined by the British commissioners, an adjournment was taken until the boundary should be adjusted by the two governments. The subject has been receiving the careful attention which its Importance demands, with the result that a modus vivendi for provisional damarkation in the region about the head of Lynn canal, has oeen agreed upon; and it is hoped that the negotiations now in progress between the two governments will end in an agreement for the establishment and delirintation of a permanent boundary. Onr Relation* With Germany. Our relations with Germany continue to be most cordial. The increasing Intimacy 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 Borkum, Emden, on the North sea, by way of the Azores, and •also by the conclusion, on September 2, of a parcels post convention with the German erpplre. In all that promises closer relations of intercourse and commerce and a better understanding oetween two races having so many traits in common,*’ the president says, “Germany can be assured of the cordial cooperation of this government and people. We may be rivals in many, material paths, but our rivalry should be generous and open, ever aiming toward the mutually beneficial advancement of each in the line of its especial adaptabilities. It is to be hoped that in time the two governments will act in common accord toward the realization of their common purpose to safe-guard the public health and to insure the purity and wholesomeness of all food products imported bv either country from the other. Were the congress to authorise an Invitation to Germany, in connection with the pending reciprocity negotiations, for the constitution of a joint commission of scientific experts and practicaLmen of affairs to conduct a searching investigation of food production and exportation in both countries and report to their respective legislatures for the adoption of such remedial measures as they might recommend for either, the way mights be opened for the desirable result indicated.” Subsequent to the exchange of our peace treaty with Spain, Germany acquired the Caroline Islands by purchase. Asiuirances have been received from the German government that the rights of American missionaries and traders there would beXconslderately observed. \ Onr Neutrality In the Boer War. } This government has maintained an altitude 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 any kindly expression of hope of the American people that war might be averted, good ofllces would have been gladly tendered. The United States representative at Pretoria was early instructed to see that all neutral American interests be respected by the combatants. This has been, an easy task in view of the positive declaration that the property rights of our citizens should be observed. Upon the withdrawal of tho ! British agent at Pretoria, the United Slates consul \va? authorized upon the I voquest of the British government and with the assent of the South African and Grange Free State governments, to exerl else the customaiy good offices-of a neu4 x.

tral for the care of the British InU»*esta. “In the discharge of this function I ant happy to say that abundant opportunity has been afforded to show the impartiality of this government towards both tho combantants." Cable to Manila trued. The Japanese government has shown a lively interest In the proposition of tho Pacific Cable Co., to add to Its projected cable lines to Hawaii, Quam and the Philippines, a branch connection with tho coast of Japan. It would be a gratifying consummation were the utility of the contemplated scheme enhanced by bringing Japan and the United 8tates into diroet telegraph relation. “I reccommend. Us case the congress should not take measures to bring about this result by direct action of the government, the postmastov general be authorised to invite competitive bids for the establishment of a cable to Manila,*' the president says, “the company making the best responsible bid to be warded the contract; the successful company to give ample bonds to Insure the completion of the work within a reasonable time." Claims growing out of the seizure of American sealing vessels In Behring sea have been under discussion with the government of Russia for several years, with toe recent happy result of an agreement to submit them to ths decision of single arbitrator.

TBe samoan Inland*. The arrangement under which Samoa was administered proved impracticable and unacceptable. To withdraw and abandon the islands to Germany and Great Britain would not be compatible with our interests in the archipelago. To relinquish our rights in the harbor of Pago Pago, the best anchorage in the Pacific, the occupancy of which had been leased to the United States in 1878 by the first foreign treaty ever concluded by Samoa, was not to be thought. We could not have considered any proposition for the abrogation of the tripartite control which did not confirm us in all our lights and safeguard all our national Interests In the islands. A satisfactory arrangement was concluded between the governments of Germany and of England by virtue of which England retired from Satmoa In view of compensations in other directions, and both powers renounced in favor of the United States all their rights and claims over and in respect to that portion of the group lying east of the'171st degree of west longitude, embracing the islands of Tutulla, Ofoo, Olesenga and Manua. Claims have been referred by white residents of Samoa on account of injuries alleged to have been suffered ^through the acts of the treaty governments in putting down the late disturbances. A convention has been made between the throe powers for the investigation0 and settlement of these claims by a neutral arbitrator. The Csnr’a Peace Conference. A definite project for a permanent international peace tribunal was included in the instructions to the peace delegates of tho United States. The convention for the pacific settlement of international conflicts embodies the leading features of the American plan with such modification as were rendered necessary by the great diversity of views and interests represented by the delegates. The mediation provided fbr by the convention is purely voluntary and advisory. The delegation of the United States was not unmindful of the Inconvenience which must arise from an obstructive exercise of mediation, and in signing the convention carefully guarded the historic position of the United States by the following declaration: "Nothing in this convention shall be so construed as to require the United States of America to depart from its traditional policy of not intruding upon, interfering with, or entangling itself in the political questions or policy of internal administration of foreign states; nor shall anything contained in said convention be construed to imply a relinquishment by the United States of America of its traditional attitude towards purely American questions.”. The Pension Question. On the 80th of June, 1899, the pension roll of the United States numbered 991,il9. 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 by reason of defith, remarriage, minors by >ogal limitation, failure to claim .within three years, and other causes, was 43.1S6, and the number of claims disallowed was 107.910. During the year 89,054 pension certificates were Issued, of which 32,077 were for new’ or original pensions. The amount disbursed for army and navy pensions during the year was $13S,355,052.9o. which was $1,651,461.61 less than the sum of tho appropriations. With the approval of tho secretary of the interior, the commissioner of pensions recommends that, in order to make the practice at all times uniform and do justice to the dependent widow, tho amount of income allowed, independent of the proceeds of her daily labor, should not be less than $250 per annum, and he urges that the congress shall so amend the act as to permit the pension office to grant pensionable status to widows under the terms of the third section of the act of June 27, 1890, whose income, aside from the proceeds of daily labor, is not in excess of $250 per annum. “1 believe this to be a simple act of iustlce, and heartily recommend ‘it,” says Mr. McKinley. The Domestic Postal Service. The domestic postal service continues to grow with extraordinary rapidity. The expenditures and the revenues will each exceed $100,000,000 during the current year. Since the revival of prosperous times, tha revenues have grown much faster than the expenditures. Some classes of mail matter wrongly exercise the privilege vf the pound rate which it should have paid instead of a postal deficit for the last fiscal year of $6,610,000, there would have beeh on one basis a surplus of $17,637,570, and'on another of $5,733,836. The reform thus suggested, in the opinion of the postmaster general, would not only put the postal service at once on a self-sustaining basis, but would permit great and valuable improvements. The Navy. The navy has maintained the spirit and high efficiency which have always characterized that service, and has lost none of the gallantry in heroic action which has signalized its brilliant and glorious past. The officers have shown peculiar adaptation for the performance of new and delicate duties which our recent war has imposed. It can not be doubted that congress will at once make necessary provision for the armor plate for the vessels now under contract and building. Provision of the act of March 3, 1899, limiting the price of armor to $300 per ton should be removed. F.ehn of the Louisiana Lynching*. The recurrent manifestations of blind mob furv directed at dependents or natives of a foreign country suggests that the contingency has arisen for action by congress in the direction of conferring upou the federal courts jurisdiction in this class of international cases where the ultimate responsibility of the federal government may be involved. Echoes From the Messsire. The Dawes commission reports that it has enrolled four of the'nations m the Indian territory. Liberal appropriation for educational purposes in the Indian territory Is urged. The postal system of Cuba, though remaining under the general guidance of the postmaster-general, was made essentially Independent. Though Porto Rico and the Philippines hold a different relation to the United States, yet for convenience of administration the same principle of an autonomous system has been extended to them. Conventions of reciprocity have been signed during the congressional recess with Great Britain for the respective colonies of British Guiana, Barbadoes, Bermuda, Jamaica and Turks and Caicos islands, and with the Republic of Nicaragua. Important reciprocity conventions nave a}so been concluded with France and with the Argentine Republic. Preparations for the representations cf the industries, arts and products of ihe United States at the World's exposition, to be held in Paris ne: * year, continue on an elaborate and comprehensive scale. A retired linen draper went into putting the scholars through an examination in geography. “What is the capital of ’Ollanii?” he asked. “Capital H!” was the crushing rejoinder from the smart boy of the class.—Youth’s Companion. Little Beth had never before seen a skimmer. “My,” she exclaimed, “who ever saw such u moth-eaten dipper as that!”—Youth’s Companion. an English school one day and

n h am. The American Column Has a Fout Hours* Battle with Aguinaldo’s Guard. fHE LOCATION OF THE OTHER COLUMNS. lMha.bltMi.tB of the Tonna Occupied by Our Troop* Join lu Repairing the Trail and Carrying Subsistence—The Revolt in Xegroa lain, portaut. Washington, Dec. 10.—The war department has received the following from Gen. Otis: > Dispatch Prom Gen. Young. Manila, Dec. 9.—A dispatch from loung, at Vigan, yesterday, says escaped Spanish prisoners report a four hours’ engagement, on the 3d inst., between his troops and Aguinaldo’s guard near Cervantes, 50 miles southeast of Yigan, with heavy loss to enemy, who is being pursued. Our loss •was one killed and six wounded; inhabitants of town occupied join the troops in repairing the trail and oar tying subsistence. - Pushing On to San Jose. S' Have pushed a column to San Jose, south oi Dangued. Howse’a column is on the rear trail; Batchelor’s battalion of the Twenty-fourth is out of neaeh, north of Bayonbong.evidently descending the river. Natives report that fighting occurred 20 miles ngrtlt. Navy reaches A parti to-monsovs^^Ai column of MacArthur’s troops, fhe-'Twenty* fifth, is reported near Subijt bay; Lawton is in Bulucan province io-ny with sufficient troops to overcome opposition and scatter the enemy.” Probably Hare** Command. It is probable that the troops which engaged, Aguinaldo’s guard are Hane’i command, as he was reported to in close in the insurgent leader’s, rear. Gen. Otis also cables as follows re garding the revolt in Negros: The Revolt in hegros. “Information received that the Ne gros revolt was of minor importance; Byrnes is in rapid pursuit of the disaffected party; Hughes is in the mountains of Puuay, en route to Cadiz,”

DIRECTOR ROBERTS* REPORT. Receipts and Cotnase of Gold and Silver Durlnw the Past Year Greatest la Oar History. Washington, Dec. 11.—Mr. Roberts the director of the mint, in his annual report, says: '‘The mint and assay offices operated upon more bullion..and in the aggregate more coinage was executed during the last fiscal year than in any previous year, amounting' in value to $148,497,190, against $147,693,104 in the fiscal year ended June 30, 1S981 Domestic deposits were the largest in our history, amounting to $76,252,487, against $69,S81,120 in the year proceeding, but there was a falling off in foreign coin and bal*s. The coinage of gold was the greatest in our history, amounting to $108,177,189, against $64,1 634,805 in the preceding year, ami might have been considerably larger if tbe capacity of the mints had been greater. The stock of gold bullion on l hand increased from $96,688,582, on July 1, 1898, to $119,882,772 on July 1, 1899. The coinage of silver dollars from bullion purchased under the act of July 14, 1890, was $18,254,709, against $10,O02,7S0 in the preceding year, and the coinage of subsidiary silver I 877.65, against $6,4S2,S0I. ‘ __ I GUARD AGAINST THE PLAGUE. ! - Heu illations to Prevent Its Introduce ' tloiv Into the United States from Santos and Oporto. i Washington, Dee. 11.—Surgeon-Gen-i eral Wyman, of the Marine Hospital i service, in view of the oificially-report ; ed prevalence of the plague in Santos, Brazil, and Oporto, Portugal, and the local conditions at those ports, has issued regulations to prevent its intro* duction into the United States, which regulations are to remain in force unlil 30 days after the official announcement of the cessation of the piogue in those cities. GREAT BRITAIN’S PUISSANCE. A French Authority Says She la Heady for Instant War With All the World.

Paris, Dec. 11.—The Figaro published an interview with M. Lockroy, former French minister of marine in the course of which he says: “The British navy is twice as strong as ours. It is able to oppose simultaneously the navies of France and the triple alliance. Everywhere French fleets are stationed they are confronted by twice or thrice their strength. “France must have cables. Great Britain’s bases of supply are all connected, and the British are ready for war to-morrow, if necessary, wiflj» every nation of the globe.” Million Dollar Fire at Avguata, Ga. Augusta, Ga., Dec. 11.—A fire which had ita origin in a dry goods store here shortly after two o’clock yesterday morning, burned four hours and laid waste a solid block in the center yf the business portion of the city. The damage will approximate $1,000,COu. There were no casualties. Spanish Prisoners at Manila. 1 Madrid, Dec. 11.—An official dispatch from Manila says that 229 Spaniard.! who were formerly prisoners in thu hands cf the Filipinos have arri. • £ tbeie.

■m State ot Ohio, Cm oh Toledo, Lucas Cocntt, Frank J. Cheney makes oath that het*< senior partner of the firm of F. JU~ A Co., doing business fit the city of ' County anti State aforesaid, and that firm will pay the sum of One Hundred Jars for each and every case of catarrh U_ Mnnot be cured by the use of Hall’s Catan Cure. TPTLANK J. CHENEY. Sworn to before no and subscribed in my ssr* ** t w’&Ias&k d l£*jf§lr, , _ Notary Public. Hall s Catarrh Cure ui taken internally and acts directly on the blood and mucous surfaces of the system. Send for tes ‘ free. F. J. CHENEY A CO., To Sold by druggists, 75c. Hall’s Family Pills are the best. Evidence. Friend^ guess your father much ^bout raisin' cattle as any, t Farmer’s Son—1 guess he does. ... of our cows has just had a two-headed Pnffc ! C ''l 'Winter in the South, season approaches when one’s thoughts turn toward a place where the in* conveniences of a Northern winter may bit escaped. No section of this country off such ideal spots as the Gulf Coast on line of the Louisville & Nashville Railr between Mobile and New Orleans. - Iti sesses a mild climate, pure air, even temperature and facilities for hunting and fishing enjoyed by no other section. Accommodations for visitors are first-class, and can be secured at moderate prices. The L. A N. R. K. is the only line by which it can be reached in through cars from Northern cities. Through car schedules to all point* Florida by this line are also perfect. Write for folders, etc., to Geo. B» Horner, t). P. A., St. Louis. Mo. Sad Catastrophe. Mr*. Golde Nugget—I cannot see any callers to-day, Nanette. '--^111 Nanette (five minutes later to ealler)— Monsieur, I haf *e plaisure to inform vouzat madarae -is blind to-day. — Philadelphia North American.

Winter Tour*. Should you desire information regard! California, Arizona, Texas or Mexico, aw the long limit, low rate, round trip ticket* sold to principal points, the various routes via which the tickets can be purchased, or regarding One way first and second class rates, through sleeping car lines, fStst Class and Tourist, call upoir or address W. G. Neimver, Gen’l Western Agent, Southern Pacific Co., 238 Clark'St., Chi«&K8£': H. Connor, Com’l Agent, ChamberlCoramerce Bldg,, Cincinnati, O., or W. J. fterg* Tray. Pass. Agt., 220 Ellieott Sq., Buffalo, N. Y. Saving.—“Did you save the counthrv, Pat? “How's that?” ‘‘Be your vSr “No, begorry.” But I saVed the rent.”— Philadelphia North American. Solid Traiiu«to Northern Mfrhisn*. The Chicago, Milwaukee St St. Paul Railway is now running solid, trains of palace sleeping cars, dining cars-(serving meals a la carte) and first-class day coaches, through from Chicago to Calumet, Houghton, Hancock and other points in the CopSer Country without change of cars, with irect connection for Marquette, Negauipee, Jshpeming, etc., and passengers from the East, Sngtth and Southwest will find this a most deltmble route. . j&v All coupon ticket agents sell ticket? via. the Chicago,. Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway. ■ .... • It depends on your point of view whether you apnsider him the best man or the worst man who wins in a prize" fight.—Chicago Chronicle. _ The Beat Prescription tor Chills and Fever is a bottle of Gkovk’s Tasteless Cou.l Tonic. It is simply iron and quinine in a tasteless form. No cure-no pay. Price.&V Cyclist—“I’m ‘run down,’ doctor.” Factious Doctor—“Well, you’ve run down a good many people in your time, so it’s only tit for tat.”—Fun. ' -- To Coro a Told to Ooo Bay Take Laxative Bromo Ouinine.Tablets. All druggists refund money If it fails to cure. 25c. f druggists refund money If it fails to cure. 25c. Most men begin to save after they have spent all.—Ram s Horn. >

OLDEST MAN IN AMERICA Tells How He Escaped the Terrors of Many Winters /Using Peruna.

Mr. Isaac Brock, the Oldest Man tn the l United States. -||||& Mr Isaac Brock, of McLennan county, Tex., has attained the great age of III years, having been born in 1788, He is an ardent friend to Peruna and speaks of it in the fob lowing terms: “During my long life I have known a great / many remedies for coughs, colds, catarrh / and diarrhoea. I had always supposed the^e / affections to be different diseases* but I have learned from Dr. Hartman’s bookstha*—T these affections are the same and are proper- J ly called catarrh.' ■ —7 “As for Dr. Hartman’s remedy, Peruna, I have found it to be the best, if not the only reliable remedy for these affections.;}, “Perana hai been my stand-by for many years, and I attribute my goad health and my extreme a»e‘ »this remedy. It exaetly meets all my re* qalrements. ' - “I have come to rely upon it almost entirely for the many little things for which I need medicine. I believe it to be especially valuable to old people.” * Isaac Brock. Catarrh is the greatest enemy of old age. A person entirely free from catarrh is sure to live to a hale and hearty old age. A free book on catarrh sent by the Peruna Medi* cine Co., Columbus, O. » M;

/DrBuirSS Cures all Throat and Lung Affection*. COUGH SYRUP the genuine. Refuse substitute^^^ Dr. Butt's Pitts cur* Dyspepsia. Trial, 30/orse. A For the Ladies. PRIESMEYEi^ EVERY PAIR GUARANTEED. Ask Your Dealer For Them. t