Evening Star Newspaper, March 28, 1896, Page 10

10 TO ATTACK CUBITAS (Continued from First Page.) attempt been made by the Spaniards to dis- lodge him. And yet for several months 6,090 government troops were stationed at Puerto Principe, only twenty-four miles away. How about the nominally Spanish capital of the Island of Cuba? The whole world knows the story of a dozen succes- sive defeats administered to the Spaniards In the provinces of Matanzas and Havana. It knows how an army of nearly 35,000 government troops was hurled back from Colon to the city of Matanzas. It knows how Gen. Campos, the greatest of Spain's military commanders, almost panic-strick- en, hurried himself and a part of his forces to make a stand against the enemy almost at the entrance to the palace of the cap- tain general! Great Excitement Im Havana. The populace of Havana has for weeks been in a state of the greatest excitement, and for days at a time Spanish authority fn the Island of Cuba was virtually para- Tyzed. Gomez marched his army almost to with- in range of the cannon of the enemy, and for two weeks the civil and military power of Spain cenfined itself within the narrow scope of the city limits. Weyler has not accomplished more than Campos. On the contrary, to whatever Maximo Gomez. rause it may be attributed, the rebel move- ment has increased very materially in Strength since his arrival. 4lready in Havana are heard murmurs against him, and well-informed people even now prophesy his early recall to Madrid and the reappointment of Gen. Campos. Without reference to anything that has occurred the latier fs still Spain's favorite. He Is still the idol of the masses and the hope of the nation. He is yet the un- trowned king of the Spanish people. ‘ampos May Return to Cuba. ossible The return of Campos to Cuba at the end pf summer would rot be a surprise to those here who are in a position to know the in- side drift of national affairs. He 1s not anxious to come, for, despite his unswerv- Ing loyalty to Spain, the old commander loves Cuba and ker people—and he would rn to wage a relentless and bar- baric war—but he would gladly take up the reins of government again could be bring peace, about. The fri . Campos here urge that perscrally he was braver than Wey- ler, who has not as yet ventured beyond sight of the city. Weyler himself must appreciate the fact that winter is practical- ly over and that not more than three weeks Intervene before the rainy season will set In fn earnest. It is evidently a part of his plan to keep the fighting in -he vicinity of Havana while he mobilizes a strong force at Puer- to Principe; hoping then before summer commences to have Cisneros and the other officers of the civil government in his hands. The Importance of Cubit: Cuhitas is important for more reasons than ene, being not alone the capital of the republic, but the chief store house and manvfacturing rendezvous. Several chem- ists, experts in the compounding of ex- plosives, are there, working under the direc- tion of the secretary of war, and turning out an abundance of dynamite, giant powder and the like. The deadly stuff that has de- stroyed a majority of the railroads through- out Cuba was made at Cubitas, among the cloud: President Cisneros in his mountain home 1s by no means isolated, as to communica- tion, from the other leaders of the move- ment. A comparatively perfect mail sys- tem was established some months ago, and it fs quite an easy matter to communicate between Havana and the rebel capital. This mail system {s by no means confined to the uses of the republican government for the transmission of official matter, but 1s a part of thg only mail service in vogue in two-thirds of the tsland. In the greater parts of the provinces of Matanzas, Santa Clara, Camaguey and Santiago de Cuba the old Spanish system ts no longer In existence. Bareaus of the Republic. On every hand one finds postmasters, Iet- ter carriers and others employed in the mail service, and all appointed by and holding office under the republican government. Nor is the civil sway of the Cubans con- fi lone to this particular branch. In the sections already referred to the Cuban prefecto has taken the place formerly held by the Spanish alcaide, and administers the law of the land. = The inhabi advice, to settle dis to make claims for or against “the government.” These matters are not disputed by the Havana authorities, who know they have not the power to make them otherwise. In « note sent by your correspondent to President Cisneros, some ten days ago, the opinion was expressed that should the Spaniards make an attack upon Cubitas Mr. Cisneros and his fellow officers might short- ly thereafter be sojourning in the Cabanas Capt. Gen. Weyler. © prison at Havana, President Cisneros, with his usual prompt- Ress and courtesy, replied at some length touching upon various important phases of the Cuban situation, now so widely attract- ing attention. A Letter From Cisneros. The letter, written in English, and in the President's own hand, is as follows: EXECUTIVE HEADQUARTERS, REPUBLIC OF CUBA. CUBITAS, March 17, 1896. I take pleasure in acknowledging your very esteemed communication of the 10th of March. It came in the regular~way and reached me yesterday, Z ‘We have known for some time that the Spaniards were thinking of an:attack upon Cubitas, but we have not allowed the thought to worry us in the least degree. You are aware of the strength and safety of our position, and I will not need to detail all the reasons for the feelings of ‘sécurity we possess. There are less men at Cubitas now than at ary time within three months, but the number will not be increased. . . = Should the Spaniards make an attack, something I doubt very much, indeed, I as- sure you we will be prepared to give them such a reception as hirelings attacking a republican capital deserve. Still I am confident you should not give the idea of a Spanish attack any thought. ‘There will be nothing of the kind for sev- eral reasons, but principally because Spain has not enough soldiers in Cuba to capture this position, and, secondly, because she finds her time very much taken up by our gallant men In the fleld. ~ No Uneasiness Felt. Of course, we have fully understood the cencentration of a large force of the enemy at Puerto Principe, but, as I have already stated, we feel no uneasiness whatever. On the contrary, an attack would be most agreeable to us, as it would allow us to convince the American people, and espe- cally Congress, that we not only have an established seat of government, but one that we can hold against all comers. It has pained me to a considerable degree to learn that incorrect statements regard- ing our capital were being published in the United States, and that such statements were used against the holy cause of Cuba in the legislative halls at Washington. I weuld rot for 2 moment think of criticis- ing the words or works of the American Congress, or a member thereof, but I do know that several misstatements have Leen made of late on the floor of the Sen- ate. They were undoubtedly unintentional- ly n-ade, and arose, perhaps, from a lack correct information. I am sure no mem- ber of that very honorable body would will- ingly and deliberately injure us in our struggle for freedom. You ask what was thought at Cubitas when the news came of the resolutions fa- vering belligerency passing Congress. You can well imagine what joyous news it was to us all, although we had believed for Taany months that the great American peo- ple would give us the recognition we de- served. Looks for a Proclamation. At this time. the Cuban republic can rightly claim recognition as an independent nation, and I feel certain that before an- other three months passes President Cleveland will issue a proclamation to that effect. We rule a large extent of territory, more than one-half of the total area of the island, by civil laws; something Spain does rot do with the other half or portion. Taxes for the support of the republican government are collected regularly in four of the six provinces. We are not com- pelled to use force or to sell out estates in making the collections, because the people are willing and anxious to support the Cu- ban government. On the other hand, ts pain not using threats, force and such as to draw from the people their un- willing tribute? As an argument, against, the recognition of belligerency or independence the state- ment is made that we have no pert. That is true. We Fave taken many poris just as we have taken hundreds of towns of the interior, but because of a lack of artillery cur armies have been unable to hold them. It is not full justice to use such an argu- ment to delay recognition from the United States. All the people of Cuba ask at pres- ent is the opportunity to arm themselves; end it would then be but the matter of a very brief period when Spanish power would be wiped from the soll of the island. There are today a score of nations with- eut a port or a seacoast. Why should not the other nations of the earth declare the fcrmer unworthy-ef or at least not entitled to the independence they possess and rob them of it? Extent of the Republic. ‘Those sections of the Island of Cuba which are controled by the republic, and where our civil laws are in force, are en- tirely free of disturbance, and-oné could rot believe, riding for 200 miles through the interior, that a war existed. The fighting rages in those sections which the Spaniard claims to control, and a summing up of the matter could be stated in the sentence “that peace reigns in the republic of Cuba, but war exists In Spain’s (?) portion of the island "’ Upon leaving Cuba, Gen. Campos, for whom all Cubans have profound re- spect, remarked that he carried the Spanish flag with him. He knew that flag no longer waved over the greater portion of the is- land, and that with the inauguration of barbaric methods against our patriotic peo- ple the whole world would be pleased at the downfall of tyranny in Cuba. By no means have we lost hope in the matter of full recognition from the United States. For several reasons the Jegislative and executive branches of the American government may be inclined to give Spain as much leeway as possible, byt we have confidence in their ultimate action. We are certain that cur Americap jprotaers and sisters are with us In’ our battle for free- dcm, and being certain we have no-misgiv- ings for the future: Spain has surely made a great effort to crush the Cuban rebellion. In all her wars with her former American dependencies she did not send as many troops across the Aulantic. This fact is all important when it is considered that Spain 3 infinitely more powerful three generations ago. It goes to prove that her present gfforts are herculean for her, and that no stone has been left unturned in the endeavor to whip liberty’s defenders. Spanish Resources Exhausted. The Spanish government has practically exhausted the sources of physical strength for its army, to say nothing of its wretched financial condition. Spain has been Iiteral- ly drained of young men for the army, and she has of late been compelled to draft soldiers from her African possessions, as well as from the Phiillpine Islands, in the distant Indies. The Spaniards pretend to be ove?flowing, as it were, with patriotism. All through their proclamations, speeches and editorials runs a very prominent vein of wordy ardor and love for country. Spanish students can £ loudly in the streets, swear vengeance against the United States and stone Ameri- can consulates, but when they are asked to cross the ocean and take up the sword for Spain jn Cuba they hastily and respect- fully decline. One scarcely knows what in- ference to draw from thts, but’I am in- clined to believe that they know the cause of Cuba is blessed by heaven, and they do not care to opposé us. You ask me for my views regarding an- nexation. The fact that I am, and for nearly twenty years have been, an Ameri- can citizen, and more proud of it than of anything else connected with earthly 38, Should in itself be suffictent to give a proper idea of my feelings upon that question. Cuba is properly American—as much so as is Leng Istand—and I believe there can be but one ultimate disposition of it—be in- eluded in the great American rhood of states. I em not authorized to speak for Gens. Gomez and Maceo,or in fact for any of the other leaders vf: the rebellion, put I do know that each and all are ‘intensely American in hepe and sentiment. In clos- ing let me again thank your paper in the name of. the people ef Cuba ‘for its noble stand in the holy cause of liberty. And allow me to extend, through your in- fluential journal, dn invitation ‘to . the American government to send a represen- tative to Cubitos, ‘| SALVADOR CISNEROS-BETANCOURT, 5 President. Other Letters Received. = When, the corresporftent of The Star wrote to the Cuban president he also ex- tended an invitation to Gen. Maxfmo Go- mez and Gen. Antonio Maceo to give their ideas of belligerency, progress of the war, Prospects, etc. Both of these able leaders responded, and with almost . surprising Eromptness, considering that their armies have been on the march almost continually for thé past fortnight. The Gomez letter, written near the Ma- ‘tanzas border, was secured by John T. Rays, an American on the staff of the rebel commander-in-chief, and was delivered by him to an insurgent mail carrier at a point not more than twelve miles from the city of Havana. His ride ‘was a daring one and full of danger, but for some months he has been in charge of the delivery of Gen. Go- mez's personal mail, and is not easily. ‘dis- mayed. At Caron de Posos, some weeks ago, he was severely wounded and nearly captured by the Spanish troops, but his flery steed carried him safely back into the rebel camp. ! A word more concerning Rays will not be amiss. Six months ago he went to the army of Gen. Gomez to act as assistant correspondent for a leading New York p per. The head correspondent was in Ha- vana. Upon the advent of Weyler the lat- ter became frightened, and, fearing he might get into trouble with “the butcher,” repudiated his correspondent who was with the rebels. Gomez, learning this, charged Rays with being a spy and ordered him shot. Rays, of course, protested and ask- ed that four days be allowed him in which to communicate with friends in Havana and establish his claim to being a newspa- per man. He then wrote a note to The Star correspondent, and Gen. Gomez was in- formed by return mail that Rays was your correspondent’s assistant. His life was spared, and he has since done some very good work in the Cuban cause. Gen. Gomez to The Star. IN THE FIELD, NEAR SANTA CRUZ, 4 March 15, 1896, Time is always precious with me and my army, but I cannot refuse the request of a Paper that has stood by Cuba from the very beginning for a statement regarding the progress of the war. I do not believe the battle of Cuban lib- erty can be won by words or letters, al- though I fully appreciate the weight of public opinion and the assistance to be gained by a proper presentation of our case to the world. Still, I am confident the American people know and sympathize with the causes that have brought the Present rebellion about, and that all the paid friends of Spain could not in a cen- tury turn the hearts of Americans against us. You ask me to furnish an estimate of the amount of property owned by citizens of the United States that has been destroyed. That would be quite impossible for me. I can assure you, however, that not one dol- lar’s worth of American property has been destroyed with the knowledge and consent of our officers. Of course, It was not to be expected that American property would in every instance escape, but we have guarded it with zealous care, just as we have the lives of American citizens. ‘Tne Cuban republic will, I assure you, be able and willing to pay for all the losses caused by this war. It will be In a better position to do so five years after indepen- dence is secured than Spain would ever be, though she might be successful in the prés- ent war. Watching England. Today Spaiu is submerged in debt. She owes England over $200,000,000, and will never be able to pay more than the inter- est, unless she might be allowed to turn the Cuban custom houses over to English control, an attempt she was about to make just previous to the recall of Gen. Campos, In this connection it may be said that we are not looking for English sympathy. We know that England has long had her eye on Cuba, and I am firmly of the opinion that but for the grand message of Pres dent Cleveland with reference to Venezue- la the custom houses of our {sland would now be controlled by the Bank of England, and thousands of red-coated soldiers wou! be assisting Spain in her work of destru tion to I'fe and liberty. When I read Pre: ident Clevelard’s message, and learned that Congress was ready to back him, I did, in- deed, rejoice, for the two told me that Spain's po: jon of Cuba was far from being agre le to the government of the United States. I think I understand President Cleveland. Judging by his past actions, I am sure he will speak when he thinks the right time has arrived. Of course, we have long thought that time was here, but we are looking at the question from different points of view. Again I repeat, he will speak when to him the moment has arrived, you may believe, Spain will hear his Gomer’s Opinion of Weyler. What do I think of Weyler? I might answer that question by another. What is the universal opinion regarding him? He has made himself supremely ridiculous in the eyes of the world, and even in the eyes of Spain, that most ridiculous of nations. I was inclined to believe that he had done all his talking before leaving Spain, but, in- stead of that, I find he is nearly worn out and hoarse from proclamations and long speeches since his arrival in Havana. His military judgment is far inferior to that of Gen. Campos, and we have marched with even greater ease from one section of the country to the other. Gen. Campos (I must do him justice), placed his men to the best possible advantage, and it was only through the fortunes of war that we were so successful in our long march from the Oriente. Weyler a Benefit to Cuba’s Cause. Weyler’s coming has benefited the Cuban cause in many ways. His record was ageinst him, and the world knew that Spain intended to be cold-blooded and inhuman when sho sent him. The people of Cuba knew this also, and thousands of men who were not inclined to join one side or the other while Gen. Campog remained are now bearing arms under our flag. The majority of Spaniards are not fiends and butchers by any means, and when a human devil is sent to lead them in the work of murder and outrage they naturally refuse to follow him. Although massacres have occurred, end although homes have been ruined and wemanhood outraged, by order of Weyler, the lovers of liberty may thank God that he was sent to command Spain’s army in Cuba. We are charged with burning houses, de- stroying railroads and bridges, and laying growing flelds waste—and the charges are in a measure true. We have carried out such plans, believing that in such a cause and against such an enemy we were right. But no man can truthfully say that we have outraged God and Icve and humanity even for liberty’s sake. I am here to lead an army against Spain; against her army, her tow her revenues, and I shall wage it so long as the Almighty Father gives me strength. M. GOMEZ. A Prediction. Capt. Stuart, formerly a British army officer, but for nearly a year with Gen. Antonio Maceo, and from whom at different times communications have been published in the American papers, sends the following Jetter froma his chief. Capt. Stuart prefaces the letter with the statement that the hand- seme rebel general is in fine health and spirits and the idol of his followers. Capt. Stuart further adds: “The general health of the army is good, and a vast improve- ment fs noticeable from six months ago in the matter of arms, ammunition, clothing and food. Personaliy, I think Weyler a blunder. To be sure, there are more battles and more killed and wounded of late, but the reasons-are not given by Weyler. The rebels are so much stronger and so much bolder that I myself am surprise Please mark this prediction: Before the end of summer there will not be a Spanish soldier outside of the cities, and, with a little more artillery in our hands, but few of the cities will be holding out.” Considerable importance should be at- tached to the words of Capt. Stuart. Dur- ing the past five months he has been in al- most uninterrupted communication with. your correspondent, and in no Instance where. ke has made important statements have facts failed to show the good basis of his judgment. . Maceo's Letter. SECOND ARMY, Pinar del Rio. It appears to me almost absurd to be ques: tioned as to the progress of the war when events themselves should speak so plainly. The fact that Gen. Gomez fs now in Matan- zas province and that my command is in Pinar del Rio-province, widely apart, should alone tell of the new strength we separate- ly, as well as collectively, feel, to say noth- ing of the score of reverses suffered by the enemy all through the island recently.” Have we noticed any effect of the ac- tion of the American Congress? Most as- | suredly we have, and the benefit has been Cubans “who hesi- | indeed very material. C tated: before"have since flocked ‘to our standard, and the army of-the republic ig at least 15,000 men stronger than it was one month ago. Not only that, but. several very good expeditions have landed with men and arms, and several more now on the way will, I am certain, be successful. The leaders of these expeditions informed me that heretofore the greatest difficulty they kad to contend with was the eluding of American naval and revenue vessels along the coast, and that it was no great treuble to slip in elmost anywhere along the coast of Cuba. Of course, you understand that Spain has a comparatively ofg fleet surrounding the islind: But have you not noticed that our land forces have kept their ficet as well as their ermy rather bisy? The Sparilards are fearful lest some of the ports fall-into our hands, and their navy has all it oan “THE EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, MAROH 28, 1896-TWENTY-FOUR PAGES, Easter. Easter, Easter. Easter, : Easter, Easter, Easter, Easter. Easter. Eastet, Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter, Easter, Easter, Easter, Easter. Easter. Easter, Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter, Easter, Easter, Easter. Easter. Easter, Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. . Easter, Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. ‘ ‘ 3 Easter, noe ss All orders taken = Easter. ; Monday will be. , Faster. Easter. -_ 4°: fi Easter. Easter. fl delivered Satur- Easter ster. se ° East Hasiete meh day. 9 Apr il 4th. ea aster. HIT: eet. % Easter, East. "DO you want a special to-order Suit for Easter? Faster ster. Easter. Easter. Li = Z ° $ Easter. Boies Sati Bee Prices 1O upwards— — ; . 5 , Easter. mx Do y sugvant a special to-order Coat and Waiscoat for Easter? Kastor. Easter. Blue or Black Clay weave ; $ Rane Easter, Be Diagonal wors! + = Easter. : oa Prices “IO upwards— Faster. Easter. ° Ras Ete. DO you want a special to-order Overcoat for Easter? — ee Bue, Black or axed $ Easter. aster. cheviots—Blue or H Easter. Easter Seerpoieeal eats Prices 1O upwards— Easter. Fate. Do you want a pair of Trousers for Easter? Encisr. Easter. : Easter. Easter, A large assortm © $ Easter. Easter. cated cere P rices 3 upwards— fevg Easter. 5 Easter. Easter. ‘ Easte Easter. yoo F Street— and - Easter. aoe Mertz « Mertz, i Easter. Baltimore Store, “i . ° Faster. Easter 6 Fast Baltimore street— New ERA Tailors-- La Sy as S ster, Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Taster. Easter. Easter. Taster. Taster. Taster. Easter. Easter. Laster. Easter. ster. Faster. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Easter. Taster. Laster. Faster. Taster, aster. Easter. Easter. Ea ter. Easter. Easter. Taster. Easter. Easter. Taster. Easter. “Easter. Easter. Easter. Taster. Easter. aster. Easter. Easter. Easter Easter. Easter. Easter. aster. Easter. Easter. Easter. Taster. Easter. Easter. Laster. Easter. Laster. Easter. Easter. Easter, do to keep watch of the towns along the coast. Fooling the Spantards. When last marched my army into Pinay del Rio, and when Gen. Gomez followed, 50 did almost the entire land force of the enemy; and her navy was all ordered to the Pinar del Rio coast line. While they were watching us at this end of the island three of the best expeditions of the war raade successful landings in the far east. Please do not believe that in writing these trings I am divulging our secret tactics. The latter are changed often, and the Spaniards are welcome to the reading and studying of anything I have written. Since my communication to you in De- eber we have added an artillery corps, to be frank with you and our other not very formidable yet. Stull, "e is little to complain of, and so long th as wo capture an occasional field gun from the enemy, and an occasional one is brought over by our friends from the United States, or Mexico, or Santo Do- mingo- we are satisfied with the progress in this direction. At Colon we captured four cannon, and the number has been in- creased to eleven, taken from the Span- jar Five good guns have been landed by our friends, and we have a fair supply of artillery ammunition. But we are not experimenting with it or westing any, for the tlm? may soon come when it will be used to excellent advantage. You may fig- ure this out to suit yourself. Cubans Like the Summer. Yes; you may he certain we will con- tinue active during the summer. Heat or rain cannot come between us and the goal we are striving to reach. You will under- stand that we like the surmmer. Our men do not fall victims to the fever, while the Spaniards dle like sheep in a pen. Last summer the: Havana officials spent the greater portion of their time denying reports of yellow “fever ‘im the Spanish ranks, while thousands of their soldiers died unattended, and were buried without their deaths being reported even to the government, to say nething of their friends. We are informed by late dispatches that Spain proposes to send reinforcements to the number of 30,000 men to Cuba during® the summer. I will be sorry for the poor fellcws who are thus drafted away from heme to fight in a cause the majority of them dislike, and in a country where al- most certain death awaits them. But let Spain send her reinforcements. She could not with 250,000 soldiers put, down, this re- Hellion. “Although we are daily receiving arms.and ammunition, we .are constantly compelled to turn men away; but it will rot always be so, and I will venture to say that within two months wo shall have 75,000 fully armed men in the field. We cculd have double that number if we had the arms for them. We are praying for belligeren and for arms and for artillery. Give us these, and before the year 1897 comes around you will witness a Cuban president installed in the captain general's palace at Havana. God bless Cuba, and God bless the Amer- ican people. ANTONIO MACEO, Licutenant General. ees AMUSEMENTS. Allen’s Grand Opera House.—General Fellx Agnus and Miss Louise Malloy’s charmt: g and most interesting work, “A Woman of War,” will be presented at the Grand Opera House Monday night, in dramatic form;.-by a company in every way qualified for the task. Miss Virginia Stuart, @ young actress richly endowed with his- tricnic force, willl mpersonate a true,warm- hearted, patriotic southern girl, an under- taking in which she is in every way fitted and in which rendition she has already achieved a large measure of success in the leading theaters of New England, New York and Philadelphia in the north, and Savannah, Atlanta, Augusta and other cit- jes in the south. The company in support of the star is said to be a masterful one, every person in it having been chosen for his or her aptitude to effectively play the particular role assigned. The scenic en- vironments will be thoroughly adequate, and the play will deal with facts known to all who braved the terrors of war in and around Port Hudson, where tie action of the play takes place. When Gen. Agnus first wrote his story reviewers declared that the character of the girl of the south was overdrawn, and the author retorted that 4t was taken frem life. The play is laid in and around Port Hudson, which 1s ably defended by a Captain Lattimer, in the confederate service, whose sweetheart, Alice Bartherley, liyes just beyond, - but within tho fedefal'Iimes. Miss Alice is sus- pected of supplying information to the be- steged, and, uppn being discovered, 1s ar- rested and trieq by fourt-martial, but her devotion to hey case not only won for -herself the respect of her judges, but an offer of assistayee ftom a Union officer to ‘ably defend her; being condemned to be shot, she, through -the instrumentality of this same officer, mg with the aid of her lover, is rescued: Some of the members of the cast arc: Geo. 1), Parker, T. J. Quinn, Percy Plunkett. Zenaide -Willlams and Gabriella McKéén. | Lefayette Square @pera House.—The com- ing week at the Lafayette Square Opera House promises.to be a notable one indeed, as. the opening. night of the engagement. there will serve t© introduce Miss Ada Rehan and Mr.’ Augustin “Daly's Company in’ their latest New York triumph, ‘The Cour.tess Gucki#” The title of the- play is derived from a familar or nickname given. ‘to the countess herdine,. impersonated by Miss Rehan. The scene of the play is laid at Carlsbad, in 1819. This place and time admit of quaint and showy costumes, and the characters are of ‘the society gathered at the’ famous Spe. The story is one of romances and several loves and lovers. The ccuntess has had her romance. When six- teen she had refused to marry the old general. She did worse, and-married ari- other to please her friends, and was happy when death took him away. Years later the old general rcappears and again -be- sieges her heart, but an audacious nephew of the general storms her and captures her before the gencre! is ready for battle. It is the part of Miss Rehan to play a woman of the world, of the Austrian type, which she is sald to do charmingly,-chiding the fool- ish, engaging in battles with the smart ones, rebuking the bores and advising the tender end timid. All in ali her characterization of the countess is pronounced as fresh, as breezy and as delightful as spring morn- ing. “The Countess Gucki” wiil be seen Monday and Tuesday evenings and Satur- day afternoon of the coming week, and will be followed in turn by “The Last Word,” Wednesday evening; “The Belle’s Strata- gem” and “The Honeymoo: Thursday ‘School for Scandal,” Friday even- ing, while the “Taming of the Shrew” will be the bill for the last night of the engage- ment. New National Theater.—Mr. E. H. Sothern in “The Prisoner of Zenda” will be the at- Bacon at the New National Theater next week. Academy of Music—The play at the Academy of Music next week will be “His Absent Boy.” Kernan's Lyceum Theater.—All who wit- ressed the performance of the Rentz- Santley Company last ceason wiil be glad to hear that the company will appear at Ker- ran’s Lyceum next week in an entirely new garb. In fact, Manager Leavitt promises everything to be new ard up to date this season. Mr. Charles Lovenberg has written a new first part, entitled “Twill Be Club,” a satire on the popular play “Trilby;” also an original burlesque, “Robin Hood, jr.,” presenting all the charecters made famous by the Bostonians A new series of living pictures, selected from famous paintings, many sensational surprives, latest popular scngs, clever performers, maznificent cos- tumes and handsome women will help to make up an interesting program. Prom- inent among the specialty and burlesque artists are Lottie Ellictt, Belle Black, Maude D'Arcy, Francis Bryant, Leslie and Tenley, Fisher and Crowell and Van Leer and Bar- ten. The Stoddard Lectures.—Monday evening John L. Stoddard will begin his annual visit to Washington, which has been looked for- ward to with the highest anticipation by his numerous friends here. He will appear at Metzerott Hall, and he comes with his fresh- est sheaves of entertainment and edification, prepared to delight in full measure, as of yore. For the opening on Monday even- ing Mr. Stoddard will reveal the beauties of Naples and its notable surroundings, which filled In many busy hours of his last sum- mer's trip. Both as to interest of subject and beauty of illustration, he believes this to be an ideal lecture, and his revelations of the disinterred streets of Pompeil have proved one of the most remarkable things he has done. This lecture will be repeated on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. It will be followed on Thursday evening by the new lecture on Constantinople, which has proved one of the favorites of the year in all the cities, filled as it is with what every one wants to hear about, in these days when the Turk and his ways are so much in evi- dence. This lecture will be repeated on Fri- day and Satirday evenings. The second veek will be signalized by the presentation of the lecturer's new and already famous lecture on Napoleon, and by a brilliant lec- ture on “The Glories of India.” It is gratifying to know that large and fine audi- ences for Mr. Stoddard are already assured. Mr. Curtis on China.—Mr, Wm. E. Curtis, the well-known correspondent of the Chi- cago Record, will deliver his interesting lecture on China at the Congregational Church on Tuesday night, March 31, for the benefit of the repair fund of that church. The lecture is prepared from notes made by Mr. Curtis during his visit to China last summer, and will be profusely Mlustrated by stereopticon slides, many from original photographs taken during the trip. Mr. Bentley P. Murray, the expert of the Geo- graphic Society, will operate the lantern. Mr. Fabian’s Recital.—The arrouncement that Mr. S. M. Fablan, the pianist, will appear at Universalist Church, Wednesday evening, April 8 is creating great interest among the many music lovers. Mr. Fabian was born in California, but completed his musical studies under the directicn of sev- eral of the greatest masters of the world. During five months of 1883 he was a class- mate of Stevenhagen, Reiseraur and Si- lottl, and together they studied with the Abbe Liszt at Weimdr. Fabian's first teacher was Moszkowski, and later on he studied with von Bulow and Dr. E. Franck. He made his first public appearance at Berlin, with Mme. Etelka Gerster, achiev- ing a phenomenal success. He next ap- peared with the Berlin Philharmonic Or- chestra, cn which occasion he played the Beethoven “Emperor” concerto as his opening number, closing with Chopin's E minor. Fabian accompanied Mme. Joa- chin on a professional tour, and then went to Berlin, where Rubenstein had begun his historical concerts. He followed the great maestro to Leipzig, and at the close of the concerts left for St. Petersburs, where he was called professionally. Re- turning to Berlin he remained a short time and then sailed to America. After filling Dumerous engagements in this coun- try, Fabian finally settled in Baltimore, where he is connected with the Peabody Institute. In this recital Mr. Fabian will have the assistance of Mr. R. S. Pigott, whose beautiful voice lms won him an en- viable position emong the artistie bari- tones of the country. Rob. Roy Smith's romantic opera, “Rob Roy,” re- turns toWashington Easter week for a fare- well engagement at the Lafayette Square Opera House. Its success here last fall’ was such as to lead Mr. Whitney to ar- rarge for another hearing of the opera, as neat season his splendid organization ap- pears in another romantic opera on an Irish subject. Few light opera companies can present such a strong list of principals as Mr. Whitney has in Miss Juliette Cor- den, Miss Lizzie: McNichol, Miss Anna O'Keefe, Mr. Wm. Pruette, Mr..Wm. Mc- Laughlin, Mr. Joseph Sheehan and Richard F. Carroll, all of. whom, except .Mr. Shee- han, have been: with ‘the company since Its organization néirly two years &go. With such a company, the beautiful scenery and Scottish costumes, and De Koven’s charm- ing music, a production of: the greatest merit 18 assured and last fall’s giccess will unquestionably be repeated. The Elks’ Benefit.—A strong and inter- esting program has been arranged for the sacred concert by Washington Lodge, No. 15, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, in ald of the “charity fund,” to .be given at the New National Theater Easter. Sunday evening, April 5. Those that have kindly volunteered their services for the occasion comprise Mary Sanders and Percy Winter, prime favorites of the National Theater Summer Comedy Company; Ha- ley’s Washington Military Band, Mary Heien Howe, Anita Cluss, William E. Brod- erick, the eminent New York basso; Apollo Quartet, Washington Saengerbund, the Madrids, William H. Conly, Mae B. White- sell, Sol Minster, Elite Quartet, Prof. Wm. Waldecker, Thomas F. McNulty, I. Leslie Gossin, E. B. Hay, Prof. R. F. Cardella and Esputa’s Orchestra. The Elks do a great deal of charity in the course of a year, and the public always generously respond to any appeal of the order. With such an ob- ject and such a list of attractions the thea- ter should be filled. Col. Ingersoil’s’ Lecture.—Col. R. J. In- fersoll will lecture at the New National Theater tomcrrow night on “Libenty of Man, Woman and Chiid. Henry Watterson on Lincoln.—The lecture to Le given tomorrcw, Sunday, night at La- fayette Square Opera’ House promises to be cne of the most interesting platform events of the searon. Mr. -Watterson’s brilliancy as a writer and his suce 48 an oraior are well known here, where he has many personal friends and warm admirers. He had the advantage of a personal acquain’ ance with President Lincoln, and his e: irate of the martyr President high one. Wherever this lecture has been sive Mr. Watterscn hes been greeted with large audicnces, who have Hstened in rapt attenticn to bis eloquence and masterly word painting. The genius of Abraham Lincoln has been the theme of the foremost orators of this country, but in Mr. Wat- terson it has fourd a’ man who was a southerner, a confederate officer, but whos keen sense of justice and broad catholi i- is a very mind gives a just estimate of the man who. next to Washington, occupies the | highest place in the history of the Ameri- can republic. It4s expected that the opera house will be filled tomorrow night. Columbia Musical Parlors.The Wash- ington public will have an opportunity to hear Mr. Jules Levy, the world’s greatest cornetist. He was passing through the city, on his way from New York, and stop- ped long enough to play to the grapho- phones. Records of all Mr. Levy’s most popular successes were made, and have been put on exhibition, wi them. They include Folks at Home,” “Blue Bells of Scotland and “Hearts,” the latest selection of Chas. K,.. Harris, author of “After the Ball.” There is much that fs new to be seen and hesrd on the kinetoscopes and grapho- phones. The selections on the grapho- phones include “The Darkies’ Jubilee,” a charming banjo duet, by Messrs. Cullen and Collins, Washington's famous barfjo- ists, and “Narcissus,” V. L. Ossman's beau- tiful banjo solo. People’s Course of Lectures.—On Monday evening at the Universalist Church Rey. Howard Wilbur Ennis will present as the last entertainment of the people's course a lecture on “Lake Champlain and Its Mem- ories,” illustrated by a large number of beautiful stereopticon photographs. The Ice Palace—The Ice Palace closes April 11, two weeks from tonight. On April 8 the management of the rink has announced that a carnival will ho held, which will surpass anything of the kind ever held in the eastern states. It will be unier the auspices of Society ladies and gentlemen, and will be for the benefit of the endowment fund of the Home for the Incurables. While no attraction is an- nounced for next week there will be no lack of skaters to fill the ice and spectators to occupy the chairs, for nearly every one in the city who is at all devoted to the sport is making as much use of the little time remaining before the rink is closed as possible, and all the sessions are crowded, morning, afternoon and evenirg. Skaters next week, then, will be allowed the use of the ice uninterrupted from § o'clock until 10:30, The afrangements for the carnival are about compleied. Boxes will be built around the edge of the ice field znd every precaution will be taken to make the affair as select as possible. Miss Loie Fuller.—Miss Loie Fuller ar- rived In Washing-on last night and fs stop- ping at the Arlington. At the matinee this afternoon she was greeted by a crowded and enthusiastic house and the sale for to- night Is even larger than the afternoon sale was. Her invention of the especial kind of dances that have made her so fa- mous was accidental, but she realized its value and has since become famous in two continents, Western Presbyterian Church Concert.— A concert will take place at the Western Presbyterian Church April 8, for the pur- pose of raising money to liquidate local in- Gebtedness,and there is every evidence that it will be a complete success. The talent aanounced Is of the highest order and is headed by Miss Fielding C. Roselle, ora- torio contralto of New York city. others who will psrticipate are Mrs. irg, soprano; Mr. James Watson, basso; Mr. Melville D. Hensey, tenor; Miss Anita Cluss, harpist; Miss Appleby, violinist, and the Temple Male Quartet. Seats are now on sale at Droop'’s music store. The Hinrichs’ Opera Company.—Musie lovers of this city can anticipate, with much pleasure the coming cf the Hinrichs’ French and Italian Grand Opera Company, which will be heard at Allen's Grand Opera Huse for the season of two weeks, com- mencing Easter Monday, April 6. The .com- pany was organized for the purpose of giv- ing a winter season of grand- opera in Thiladelphia. A number cf wealthy citl- zens of that city having guafaniced the en- terprise to the extent of $500). The sea- scn begin cn November 12, 1805, with the first performance in America of Ernest Reyer’s heroic opera of urd,” and eon- tinued uninterrupted for fourteen weeks, during which time twenty-four of the most famous French and Italian grand operas were’ presented. During the forthcoming ergagement in this city the operas that will be presented are to be selected from the most successful of the operas given in Philadelphia. . The leading sopranos are Miss Minnte Tracey, an American girl, with @ soprano voice of dramatic quality, and Mile. Amelie Loventz, the leading soprano. of the Grand Opera House of Paris, who is] sirgihg in this country by permission of the Girectors of that institution. The mezzo scpranos and contraltos of the company are Miss Katherine Fleming, Mlle. Amelia Grsssi and Mile. Synneberg. The tenors are M. Jules Gogny, M. Brizio Pirola and Sig. Fernando Michelena. The baritones are M. Louis de Backer, Perry Averill and Sig. Pietro Canova. The bsssos include Mens. Eugene Lorrain, Sig. Alfonso Rosa and Sig. Casimiro Saporetti. There is a large chorus, most of which were engaged in Italy last summer, and an orchestra, which has been selected by Director Hin- richs from among the instrumentalists of the large cities of the country. Manager Allen has arranged with Mr. Hinrichs to give the entire season at regular prices. The sale of seats commences at the box office at Allen's id Opera House Tues- day morning,- March 31, at-9 o'clock. | ern extras, 23 cents a pound; choice, = = ————— WHOLESALE PRODUCE MARKET. Ese. Slightly Lower—Other Products Prac y Unchanged. As was indicated last week, there has been no material change in either the prices rrevailing in or the condition of the local wholesale produce market. It is true that eggs are a fraction lower today, but the aifference is so slight as to have no real in- fluence on the market. Butter remains as last reported in about every particular, al- though the market continues to be weil cleaned up, especially in fine goods. This is true, too, of cheese. For poultry there is quite a guod demand, particularly for live stock, the supply of which has beez what light during the week. Spring chi bs are beginning to arrive in good condi- hon and fairly large quantities, but prices remain about as last quoted. Vegetables and fruits remain practically uncham, although the supply of spring goods are rapidly increasing. Beef and other mea‘s are in good condition and supply, with un- changed prices. The market is ‘well sup- plied throughout, and its condition is firm and active. There is really nothing new to be said of the butter market today, the supply being met by a sufliciently large demand, whi neither is remarkable. Fine goods well cleaned up, however, and there quite a good demand for lower grades. some- is 2 No Material change in prices is expected short- and those ailing today are those sin and other west- Es Choice bakers’ stock, tarbs, 16; dairy print, 1 western, 10 to 15 Maryland and Vir- sinla creamery, 18; dairy packed, 1 There is stil quite a large supply of cheese on hand, although the quality is not always the most desirable. and fine goods are in geod demand. Last week's s continue: New York state cream, lar cents a pound; fats, 12%, and pony i4. Eggs are still lentiful, so much so that prices for nearby fresh have dropped half a cent doze: It m: be that the firsts, 1% seconds, It, 1244 to 15; New Yor 2 ster cemand will jraise prices slightly, but if the present Weather continues the diffe: erce will be very slight. Today's ‘Nearby fresh, 11% cents a dozen: weetery 1%; southern, 10, 2nd keat or guinea stock, 4 to 5. ; The demand for poultry is encouragingly large, although it has not advanced pring chickers are arriving in good con- dition, and fairly large quant prices will not be changed, it is though: ior some time. Pri evailing tod Drawn tur 1G to 17 cents a pound. live, 10 to 15 chickens, 10 to 1 ed, 12 to 1 dresse 4 to 6; capor. to 18; duc and geese, 6 to + Spring chic Vegetables and fruits remain Igst reported, both Cabbages, as a as to supply and pricet $5 to $10 per hundred: new. $4 50 a barrel; potatoos, enis a 1; sweet red, B to a eastera shore sweet potatoes, $3.50 to $4 a barrel; yams gn? haymons, © to Sf a barrel $1 to $1.50 a hundred yellow on:ons, $1 to $2 a_barrely new, 40 to 60 cents a bushel; kale, 75 cent h, $3 to $4 a barred: lett rot 30 to $1 to S150 a rel; strawberries, cauliflower, $4 to al rnips, $l va berrel; Virginia white beans, ; Black-eyed peas, 75 cents to $1 3 cele 0 7 cents a dozen; Florida tomato to ¢ : rat barrel, faney table apples, $2 to $3. fancy California orange: Messina lemon: Only the slight fractional chan in prices weekly observed are to be noted. the ecndition of the market remaining oiher- wise unchanged: Live cattle, from 2 to 44 cents ® pound » 4 to 51-4: to 4; cows, with calves, $20 to $15: 5 to 7 cents « pound, and dressed h 4 to 7. He Had a From the Baffato Express. Apropos of the passage of the Tair @ sood story Is told of one of the c legislators who helped it vhrovzh. legislator was in New York rc one of the many purpe ly call legislators to the metropolis. associate got tozether a party of and uiiertook to show him the s the town. After si the Central Park mo jects which are suppo: st coun- trymen, the city member thought he try an experiment and led his party the Hoffman House bar room. he country legislator did e he was gong tll he was » side and had been lined up to the his companion: natty that so frew “Now, then,” said his guide, “what are you going to hav The country legislator's face fell “What are the of you KO have?" he aske: -,,""Never mind that,” said the entertainer, “you just name anything you want. It is my treat “What will it cos the country, dubiou: “Any sum from the other. about t "N tell you,” said the c perately, don’t drin but if you'll excuse me this time, I'll get my boots blacked hi —-——-+0-+. —_.. Independent of Servants, From the Liben tte. Even in his late years, Tolstol has not ceased simplifying his manner of life. He |. has banished servants from his dining room at meal times. At the table everybody helps himself, and,as the dishes are to be brought from the kitchen, his two daughters take turns in playing waitress. Vegetarianism is the rule at the table; for bimself, Toistoi never. permits an exception, although the other members of the family 9ccasionally eat‘fish or fowl. Milk and butter have been forbidden in the house for the last six months. The usual menu for dinner is mushroom soup, vegetable croquets, pre- served fruit, baked potatoes and boiled beets. There is no dessert or coffee. ————_+o+ The lowa hovee has passed a bill com- pelling picycl:sts to dismount when ap- Pproaching teams show fright, and assist in quicting the teams. we