Evening Star Newspaper, January 15, 1897, Page 1

THE EVENING STAR. age oe PUBLISHED DAILY EXCEPT SUNDAY, AT THE STAR BUILDINGS, 1101 Pennayivania Avenue, Cor. 11th 8t, by The Evening Star Newspaper Company. 5. H. KAUFFMANN, Pree’t. New York Offce, 49 Potter Building. The Evening Star is served to subscribers im the eity by carriers, on their own od ees we or 44 cents. month. ee cents each. y mail—anywhere in the United = or Canada—postage cents P"faturday Quintaple Sheet Star, $1 per year, with foreign postage added. $3.00. mace (Entered at the = rand se oe Tn ta at be a tenn Retes of advertising made known on application. a he £vening Star. No. 13,689, WASHINGTON, D. CG, FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 1897-TWELVE PAGES. TWO CENTS, If you wank today’s news todav you can find it only in The Star. WILL TAKE Adjournment of the Senatorial Fight at Springfield, Il. MADDEN GRATEFUL 10 HIS FRIENDS No Opposition to Senator Teller's Re-Election. — WHAT MR. PLATT SAYS SPRINGFIELD, Il, January 15.—With every train that has left Springfield today has gone a crowd of tired politicians, scarcely a handful of legislators assem- bling in the house this morning when the speaker called that body to order, and they remained in session only long enough for the chaplain to call upon the Lord to bless them. When this official had finished hit Guties an adjournment was taken until e’clock Monday evening. A similar session was held in the senate, and from now until Monday Springfield will be practically deserted. In the strug- gle for the United States senatorship the political leaders have been for the most part working night and day for the last forty-eight hours, and to them a cessation of hostilities until Monday came as an ac- eeptable relief. Alderman Martin B. Madden, who with- érew from the contest last night in favor of ex-Congressman W. E. Mason, slept fearly until 10 o'clock this morning. He fame down stairs looking cheerful, and said that he was well satisfied with himself and that he felt grateful to his friends for the efforts they had made in his behalf. “I shall go home feeling satisfied that all of them were faithful to me, and shall re- sume my former position in life with none but the best of feelings for all.” Mr. Madden left the city on the 11 o'clock train for Chicago. Representative Lori- ter opened his headquarters as a candidate this morning, and unless he changes his mind he will remain here during the leg- fslative recess. The millionaire packer, Samuel W. Aller- ton, was the first senatorial candidate to ®ppear in public this morning. He was un- vsually jovial, and said that the with- @rawal of Madden had greatly increased Ris chances of svecess. The friends of Revresentative Hitt we: . Cut bright and early doing missionary work among the members before their departure for home. His manager expressed great confidence this morning that he would go into the caucus with enough votes to pre- vent the nomination going to any candi- date on the first ballot Col. Clark E. Carr and his friends are active, but are not talking a great deal, though the withdrawal of Madden has given Col. Carr great hopes. Developments are eagerly awaited re- garding the candidacy of Wm. J. Calhoun of Danville, who turned the tide to Mc- Kinley in the Illinois state convention, pre- ceding the presidential nomination. TELLER PRACTICALLY UNOPPOSED. He Will Be Re lected to the Senate January 19. DENVER, Col.. January 15.—The mem- bers of the Colorado legislature will vote for United States senator to succeed Hen! M. Teller at noon Tuesday, January 19. ‘The re-election of Senator Teller was made ® cardinal principle in the platform upon which nearly every member of the general assembly was elected, and there will be ractically no opposition to his re-election. m the joint session it is certain that not more than seven of the one hundred votes Will be cast agalnst Teller, and there may not be so many. The utter hopelessness of the opposition may result in giving him almost a unanimous vote. NOT WORTH ANSW: RING. That Mr. Platt Would Decline. NBW YORK, January 15.—Mr. Platt,who last night received the republican execu- tive caucus nomination for United States senator, was approached today by a re- porter, who questioned him as to the truth mn a rumor that he would decline an elec- ton. “It ts sald now that you are practically the unanimous choice of the caucus.” the reporter suggested, “you will decline the honor.” The State fonsense,"” was the answer. “That's such rot that it's really not worth while answering it.” The Situation at Ralcigh. elal Dispatch to The RALEIGH, N. January 15.—There was a dramatic incident at noon today. Serator Butler met the committee of the Populist bolters and told them plainly that 4 they did not return to the caucus they should be crushed to atoms and driven from the party. He was asked would be Evening Star. by the committee what the result in case the caucus re- fused to take this action toward the boit- ers, and replied hé would himself do tt. The « mittee at this became angry and told him if these were his terms they would MeCask that if he » his never return. bolters wa’ chairman of the did not get terms he would never said men consent Two of the boiters, D. Hardison, return. midnight last night This reduces the number of the bolters to teen. It is asserted that there are cc four republicans who are ants. hard. and that the latter needs six- ulist votes to elec alist ma:n caucus adjourned after afler agreeing to dispose of the hip matter tonight. It fs now un- nator Butler will tonigat man. There are no end of sur- “as to who this may be, but nobody undertake to predict. =e us PAR IN A CHURCH. Reid Parker and ed to the caucus Presented Against the Bishop of London. LONDON, Jan -During the cere- mony Mary-le-Bow today confirm- ing the election of Dr. Merdell Creighton, as bishop of London, in succession to Dr. Protest at St Temple, now archbishop of Canterbury, John Kensit, a layman, read a protest against Dr. Creighton’s election on the Bround of the prelate’s alleged desire to “undo the work of the reformation by in- troducing the trinklets of Rome.” Kensit added that Dr. Creighton had been unfaithful to the promises made at his ordinetion to drive out all erroneous doctrines and punish the “disobedient clergy who are trying to introduce Romish doctrires.”" The vicar general refused to Usten to the protest and Kensit protested again, twice asking, why the vicar general did not call upon ‘objector: and wr aud sto come forward cal ‘orth applause and stamping of _ feet, “mingled with cries of “Heat jeer. and counter this is a chureh,” ae” °f “"emember After the ceremony Kensit and his friends distributed copies of the protest among those present. , A REST|THE NEXT SENATE/DFATH OF MR, Members of That Body Who Will Retire on the 4th of March. Names of Those Who Have Thus Far Been Elected or Nominated by Controlling Parties. Thirty senators retire at noon on the 4th of next March, and the legislatures of sev- eral states are now wrestling with the problem of electing successors. In most of the states there have either been elections or else nominations by the parties control- ling the legislatures. The news of these contests has been printed from time to time, and some of the results were achieved so long ago that they may have passed out of mind. To bring the senatorial situation up to date, therefore, The Star prints to- day a table showing the names of the retir- ing senators and the names of those who have thus far been elected or nominated by controlling parties. It is as follows: Retiring senator. Succeesor. Allison, Towa, reg Allison, rep. Blackburn, Ky., dem. Blanchard, La.; dem. McEnery, dem. Brice, Obloy “dem. rown, Utah, rep. Call, Fia., dem. Cameron, ‘Pa. Dutots, idan Gallinger, Gfson, M1 Gordon, Ga., dem: 4x, dem. Hansbrough, N. D. Hansbrough, rep. Hi, or dem Platt, rep. Irby, S.C.) dem Earle, dem. Mitchell, rep. orrill, ‘rep. . Fep den rep. lati, Tp. ‘Pettus, dem. est, dem : E Spooner, 1 Vooriees, Ind., de ‘airbanks, Balloting is now in progress in Idaho, where Dubois is a candidate for re-election, with Claggett, populist, opposing him and leading the field. On joint ballot the legis- lature stands: Populist-democrats, 41; sil- ver republicans, 28; straight republican, 1. Party caucuses are about to be held in Illinois, North Carolina and South Dakota. In Ilinois the legislature stands: Republi- cans, 126; Cemocrats, 75; populists, 3. Ex- Congressman Mason is now the leading candidate. In North Carolina the legis- lature stands: Republicans, 66; populists, 38; democrats, 45. Senator Pritchard is a candidate for re-eiection and expects to be chosen with pepulist and perhaps demo- cratic support. In South Dakota the leg- islature stands: Populists, 62; republicans, . Senator Kyle stends for re-election, but is opposed in his party. Representa- tive Pickler has been given the -republi- can nomination. g Other state legislatures which have yet te choose Senators stand thus: Kentucky— Republicans, 65; democrats, 68; populists, Florida—Democrats, %; “republicans, populists, 3. Arkansas—Democrats, | 1 pSpulists, 14; republicans, 3. Nevada: verites, republicans, 6; democrats, independents, 2. Kansas—Populists, 91; re- publicans, 00; democrats, 11; silver repub- licans, 3. Washington—Populists, 84; re- publicans, 28. Colorado—Populists, 47; re- publicans, 27; demoerats, 24; silverite, 1. ‘There {s practically no question as to the return of Senator Jones of Arkansas and Teller, the latter by a combination of populists and other votes. The present chances favor the re-election of Senator Squire. Senator Brown of Utah will, it 1s expected, be succeeded by a democrat, for the legislature, the exact figures in relatfon to which are not at hand, is over- whelmingly pro-silver and anti-republican. pectinases THE STEEL BOARD. It Has Acted Promptly and Effectively Upon Two Important Matters. The newly reorganized steel board has acted promptly and effectively upon the two important matters awaiting its decis- fon, and as a result the work upon the bat- tle ships Kearsarge and Kentucky will proceed at once, to the relief of the hun- dreds of workmen at Newport News whose employment has been suspended while all of hundreds of steel plates on hand there were being slowly inspected. The board held its first meeting yesterday evening and received the detailed report of Con- structor Dashiel, who had been delegated to visit the steel works and the ship yards and inspect the steel plate on hand. The first result of this work by Mr. Dashiel Was to render unnecessary the creation of a special board to examine the steel at the Union tron works in San Francisco, intend- ed for the battle ship Wisconsin. The constructor’s visit to the Bethlehem works, whence these plates are supplied, showed that the steel was up to specifications in all respects, so the orders to the California board were held up. So far as the steel at Newport News is concerned, the board de- cided to do away with the time-consuming and unnecessary process of testing, and so spoiling almost every plate. This was ef- fected by ordering the plates to be assorted by numbers into “heats.” If in working a plate breaks down, one or two plates of the same heat will be tested, and upon this test will depend the acceptance or rejection of the whole group. Lastly, the board made some alterations in the general specifications under which the steel plate is made. The tensile strength requirement is made more elas- tie, varying with the percentage of carbon contained within reasonable limits, so as to make it easier to secure steel of the de- sired degree of ductility. —o THE NATIVES. The Massacre of a British Party to Be Avenged, LONDON, January 15.—The Daily News announces that Lord Salisbury has con- sented to @ punitive attack upon the King of Benin, in the Niger coast protectorate, on account of the recent massacre of a British expedition and a number of Kroo- imen and native carriers. The attack will, however, be delayed about a month, until the arrtval of fresh officers from Engiand. The expedition will comprise nearly a thou- sand men and will be a determined expe- dition to avenge the massacred Europeans, The men-of-war Widgeon, Thrush, Alecto, Philomel and Phoebe will anchor off New Benin during the operations. A dispatch froma Brass, Guinea coast, dated January 14, announces that Captain Boisragon and Consular Officer Locke, two of the party, headed by Consul Phillips, which was almost annthilated by the na- tives of Benin city while on a peaceful mission to that district and unarmed, have been saved after wandering in the brush for a week. Both men were wounded and there is no hope of any further res- cues. Twenty of the native carriers have returned. es TO RETIRE THE CLERKS. Representative Gillett’s Bill Exempts Veter and Their Widows. A bill fixing the age for retirement from the classified civil service was today in- troduced by Representative Gillett of Mas- sachusetts. It provides that any office in the classitied service held by a, person--who at the time of the passage of. the act ‘is over stxty-two years of age,-shall become vacant in three years. Every office. in the WILLIS The Minister to Hawaii Succumbed to a Long Ilness, REMAINS TO BE TAKEN 70 KENTUCKY How His Reports Stayed the President's Hands. HELD IN HIGH ESTEEM WA SAN FRANCISCO, January 15.—The steamer Monwai, which arrived at mid- night, brought advices from Honolulu to the effect that United States Minister Al- bert S. Willis died at 9:30 a.m., January 6, after an illness covering several months, resulting from the attack of pneumonia he suffeted on his vacation to the United States. In April last the minister and family left Hawaii for a visit to their old home at Louisville. While in San Francisco, on the return trip, the minister contracted a se- vere cold, which settled upon his lungs. This was the immediate cause of his death. At noon, October 31, while leaving church, his horse ran away and threw Mr. Willis to the ground. He was taken to a physician's office, and soon recovered suffi- ciently to return to his home at Waikiki. He never left it again. Fever increased, and the cold taken in San Francisco soon developed into pneu- monta. This settled so firmly upon the lungs that it could not be checked. All human effort was expended without avail. Three physicians labored incessantly and held frequent conferences upon the case. A few days before Christmas the case was pronounced hopeless. Soon after the death of the minister all the consular governments’ and shipping flags were lowered to half-mast. Expres- sions of regret were general, and the wife and son have the sympathy of the whole community. Funeral Services. At the request of Mrs. Willis, the fu- neral services took place at the Central Union Church at 3 p.m. on January 7, Rev. D. P. Biernie, pastor of that church, and Rev. J. M. Monroe, pastor of the Christian Church, of which the deceased was a\member, conducting the services. The details of the funeral were left to United States Consul General and Charge d’Affaires Ellis Mills, at whose request the government took the funeral in hand. The funeral procession was the most imposing since that of Kalakaua. The remains were deposited temporarily in a vault at Nuuanu cemetery, until the 18th instant, when the casket was to be placed on board the steamship Australia, for transportation to the United States. It was not knawn when the Monowai left whether an escort would be sent with the remains, but it was the opinion of a num- ber of citizens that a representative of the foreign office should be detailed as an ‘ort to accompany the remains to Louis- ville and turn them over to the officials there. HELD IN HIGH ESTEEM. Had Many Amiable Qualities and oxnensed Unusual Abilities. Mr. Willis was held in high esteem dur- ing his career in Congress. He was a man of many amiable qualities and possessed ability much above the average of Con- giess. When he was selected to succeed Mr. Blount as minister to Hawaii he found himself placed in a different and em- barrassing situation. The unpopularity of the policy which Mr. Cleveland had adopt- ed toward Hawaii rendered it difficult for aman of an American spirit and a lover of liberty to maintain himself with credit as American minister to that country. Mr. Willis did not escape the criticism which had fallen abundantly upon his predecessor, but subsequent events, as well as the correspondence with the State De- partment, have shown that he exerted his influence to save the administration from falling deeper into the error involved in Mr. Cleveland’s Hawaiian policy. It ap- pears probable that if it had not been for the representations made by Mr. Willis, Mr. Cleveland would have taken an aggres- sive course looking to the re-establishment of the deposed monarchy. Held Back the President. When Mr. Willis reached Hawaii he found the provisional government fully es- tablished, and his reports to the depart- mert such as to discourage Mr. Cleve- Jand in his design to put the ex-queen heck on her throne. Mr. Willis’ course was not always what the American peo- ple wuld have had it, but it has been recognized that he did the best that was porsible under his instructions, and that in reality it was due to him that Mr. Cleveicnd’s administration was restrained from perpetrating a most violent outrage upon the new republic. In this Mr. Willis showed thet his real sympathies were with the republic. Had he been more open in his sympathy he would rrobably have lost all influence with his own government, and been unable to accomplish what he did toward modifying Mr. Cleveland’s violent policy. How He Was Regarded in Hawaii. While in Washington last May Mr. Willis said to a Star reporter: “The feeling of the Hawaiian people and the government is not only friendly and amiable toward us, but is very cordial. My residence in Hawaii from the time of my going there to my departure on leave of absence has been very agreeable and pleasant; without anything jarring or dis- cordant, except for about a week during the excitement of the revolution. I could not desire more cordiality and manifesta- tion of friendly feeling than I have re- ccived from both the citizens and the gov- ernment of Hawaii. Everything is peace- ful, beautiful and delightful on the island. The legislature was about closing up its work when I left, and it accomplished geveral important things. The immigra- tion question and a number of other questions are of great importance, but the ‘government has manifested wisdom and eapacity in dealing with the question: ieee SF — The islands are enjoyng a of phenomenal prosperity, and the “people. of sugar have mede money dant. =a “I, as the representative of my country, | have received nothing byt the warmest hos- | pitality. They are a cordial, hospitable peo- ple. They do not harbor resentments. Tne delightful climate aud the disposition of the people seem to make them speedily forget whatever has irritated them. Their amiabll- ity dominates.” ‘The President Deeply Affected. The news of the death of Minister Willis was received with deep regret in Washing- ton, where he was s0 well known in offictal and social circles. At the time of his last visit to Washington it was apparent that his health was in an extremely precarious condition, and this fact he fully realized himself. ‘Sti! be felt that if he could suc- ceed in returning ‘to the Hawaltan Islands without suffering a re! he would ultt- mately regain his, health in the mild and equable island climate. * President Cleveland deeply affected at the news of the ministers death. He said that he had known Mr. Willis for many years, and in official life had been closely associated with him. He was an honest and a thoroughly capable man, whom the President held in the highest esteem, and of’ whose death he learned with the deepest regret. Minister Willis’ Career. Albert Sydney Willis was born near Shel- byville, Ky., about fifty-five years ago. He was the son of a well-known physician. When Albert wea twelve years of age his father died. After @ short wid»whood Mrs. Willis married J. L. Clemmons, a “Louis- ville attorney, and went to Louisville to live. Albert was sent to the public schools. Later he entered the High School, and took the full five years’ course, graduating with distinction: fter graduation he taught a little school out on the Bardstown road. While illling this post he studied law, and later matric- ulated at the Louisville Law School. In 1868 he graduated from the law school and began practice. In the early seventies he was elected to the office of county attorney, which posi- tion he held until his election to Congress In 1876, when he succeeded Mr. Henry Wai- terson, who had been selected to fill the unexpired term of E. ¥. Parsons. He be- came a favorite licutenant of Mr. Carlisle, and maneuvered his forces for the speaker- ship, to which office Mr. Carlisle was elect- ed for the first time in the Forty-eighth Congress. Mr. Carlisle then made Mr. Wil- lis chairman of the rivers and harbors committee, which responsible post he ably filled. Mr. Willis served five terms in Con- gress. In 1886 he was succeeded by Asher G. Caruth. He returned to Louisville and resumed the practice of his profession. In September, 1893, Mr. Willis received the appointment as minister to Hawall. He accepted and assuméd the post. Mr. Willis arrived at the island during the most crit- ical moment in its history. Queen Liliuo- kalani had been deposed, and another gov- ernment had taken’the place of the mon- archy. The most intense! interest existed as to what course the President wouid adopt. Mr. Cleveland intrusted his secret orders to Mr. Willis, and they were to the effect that Queen Lil. should be reinstated in the event of her granting immunity to all polltical offenders. hia she declined to do. The recent state of affairs is well known. In 1876 Mr. Willis married Miss Florence Bulaney. They have one son, Albert 8. Willis, jr., who is at Honolulu. ee CONSUL SPRINGER. | immense crops and high price | VIC He Has an Interview With: Secretary Olney gn Cubae Affairs, Mr. Springer, United States vice consul general at Havana, fs in this city on leave of absence from hig pést. He has had a personal interview, with Secretary Olney, and set out fully” all that took place in Havana during General Lee's absence from that city while he. (Mr. Springer) acted as consti! general, and also the status of affairs at the date of his own departure for the United States. Mr. Springer was also in conference today with Assistant Secretary Rockhill touching the condition of American citizens now in confinement in Cube and the various claims now he- fore the State Department preferred by persons who have guffered in person and property from the war. Senor Quesada, the charge d'affaires of the Cuban junta here, is just recovering from an ill- ness which has confined him for the past week to his bed. . Personal Mentio Mr. Eckels, controller of the currency, has gone to Chicago on business relating to the affairs of the Illinois National Bank. Capt. F. Rodgere, commanding the battle ship Massachusetts, js at the Metropolitan Club, on leave of absence. Lieut. Commander William Swift of the Indiana is at the Army and Navy Club for a few days. Capt. W. B. Gordon of the ordnance de- partment is at the Ebbitt on leave of ab- sence. Major Philip F. Harvey, surgeon, has been granted leave ef absence for two months. The leave of Lieut. €. W. Fenton, 7th Cavalry, has been extended one month. He is at the Army and Navy Club. Major General Nelson A. Miles, com- manding general, United States army, was elected president of the Military Service Institution at a. general meeting of the members held at Governor's Island, N. Y., Wednesday. Senor Gonzalo de Quesada, charge d'affaires of the Cuban Jegation, is confined to his bed at the Raleigh by illness, and has been and still is unable to attend to his personal correspondence. Representative McLaurin of South Caro- lina has brought his family to Washington to remain until the close of the extra ses- sion. He has secured the house at 2026 I street northwest. Walter F. Macnichol left this morning to join Sol Sm{th Russell:in Chicago as treas- urer. Clerk Joseph Y. Pottg and Decket Clerk J. Hall Colegate of the Police Court have been confined to their homes by illness dur- ing the past few days. |. ! Mr. W. P. Fowler, jf., who has been con- fined to his home _ past week, is improv- ing, and hopes to be out in a few days. Repairs Needed by the Montgomery. AgsistantSecretity McAdoo received a telegram. this mornipg| frem Commander Sicard, commanding ‘the New York navy yard, saying.that-new propeller blades are required= for: the. eruisg¢r Montgomery in consequence of her lent off Governor's Island, New. York harbor, last Wednesday, and that she cannot repaired before the 2ist instant. This will prevent her going to Tampa,” on the 20th in- stant, during the the Gulf Coast Defense Association, @¢ sms originally in- tended. Anather swill. be substi- tuted. ar Omcers [plected. At the last regular seeting of General J. M. Schofield Regular Army and Navy Union, foMlowing officers were Installed to serve for 1897: Com- mander, G. W. Giddens; senior vice com- mander, J. Bond; junior vice commander, H. J. Bowker; adjutant, D. O. Drennan; paymaster, T. Morris; quartermaster, L. J. Melchior; officer of the rath. M. J. De- haplain, H. ponal; it; executive committee; SiEvans, p “Foster ond-C.-| » Senator Chandler t zed. to introduce the adelphia, at. LETTER FROM GOMEZ|THE CAMERON RESOLUTION The Cuban General-in-Chief De- scribes the Situation. SPANISH CONCENTRATED ON THE COAST The Insurgents Are in Full Control of Eastern Provinces. STRONG AND CONFIDENT « —__-+___. Senor Gonzalo de Quetada of the Cuban legation today gave a Star reporter a translation of an important letter written by Gen. Maximo Gomez, the Cuban gen- eral-in-chief, to Senor Tomas Estrada Palma, the representative in the United States of the Cuban repablic. The commu- nication gives a most interesting outline of the policy of Gen: Gomez. It was dated Camaguay, November 30, 1896, and is as follows. “It is some time since I have written you and I have done it on purpose so as to have something of tmportance to tell you, and waiting, as it ts my custom, that everts wovld justify my optnions in re- gard to the war to which I give my aid. It is time now to communicate to you something in regard to the termination of the summer campaign and the beginning of the winter, in which period we have just entered. “I will commence by telling you that the reinforcements lately arriving from Spain, according to their own confession, do not resch 40,000 men, as emphatically promised by the government. The govern- ment, pushed by the impatience of Weyler, advanced the time in which it should have sent the reinforcements, taking into con- sideration the necessities of the climate, and it can be said that they have hardly covered the losses which they suffered in the summer campaign, their hospitais be- ing crowded with victims of malarial and yellow fever. From this it can be easily explained that in order to fight Maceo, the largest number possible of soldiers have had to be taken from other parts of the fsland, weakening indispensable garri- sons. This has given us time and oppor- tunity to commence energetic operations in other places, in Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo, for exampie, where the Span- ish operations are very limited, and in Camaguay, where, after the battle of KI Desmayo, the capture of Guimaro, and other battles, the Spanish have been obliged to concentrate finally on the coast. “The last battles given by Maceo in Pinar del Rio and the resistance of our forces in the provinces of Havana, Matanzas, Las Villas, at the beginning of this winter's cam- paign, show that the Spaniards would not be able to obtain any advantage over our treops, much less when I intend to enforce our troops with all kinds of elements in those territories. Weyler Was Too Hasty. “As I have said before, General Weyler was in too much haste when he sent his soldiers to the field, and this hurry with which we proceed will offer us the ad- vantage that when the full season to oper- ate comes the reinforcements that he has received will be already spent. And in case the Spanish government makes a supreme effort to send them a few more, these will arrive too late. “We have obliged the enemy te concen- trate in great forces, and they have had to abandon many points which they occupied in Las Villas and in the military depart- ment of the east. Some of these places are of military importance—others of none. And this determination to concentrate his troops has placed him on the defensive in vast territories full of resources for us, and where our troops can move with en- tire liberty. We have to look for the enemy in the east in order to take the offensive, and have to go even to their fortresses in order to make them fight. In all the east- ern part of the island our arms are suc- cessful everywhere, and there are signs that the enemy is giving up the struggle. This inclines us to believe that the idea is absurd’ that Spain has any hopes of pacify- ing the island. Resources of Ini rgents, “Our provinces are abandoned, and even if the Spaniards make any efforts to de- Stroy them we will always have sufficient for the necessities of our army in this ad- mirable island, so fertile. The population of Cuba in its greater part, if it has not emigrated, is in the fields, as they offer food and individual seeurity. The health of our army 1s satisfactory—due to our habits of life in the open air. The resources sent by you have arrived safely in our camp. We are now strong, resolved and well-armed, and this winter’s campaign finds us under the best auspices for the battle. The false news of so-called victories given out to the publi¢ by the enemy through the public press, in order to de- ceive the world, are reasons which lead us to believe that Spain considers herself lost in Cuba, and that her object at present is to prolong the war a short time, and, as best she can, for the benefit of those in power, while the Spanish people, hard- working and poor, will spend their blood, sending to the Island of Cuba hundreds of thousands of the best of her children to die in a useless and sad manner. The bitter stories brought by the deserters to our ranks—and they are many—and to those who become our prisoners of war, as to how they are transported, how they are moved and treated, inspire us with such pity that as soon as they join our army We cannot but consider them as forced vic- tims of the same tyranny. “1 must finish here, and finish by saying to you not to send us more cannons, for we have enough with what we have received, but you can send us ammunition—a great deal of ammunition—for those cannons.” ——_—__<_o-_____ SENATORIAL CAUCUS. No Changes in the Bill for a Bi- metallic International Conference. The adjourned republican senatorial cau- cus, which was held in the Senate marble room today, did not result in any changes in the bill for an international bimetallic conference as drafted by the caucus com- mittee. It was stated in the caucus that there had been some interchange of views with democratic senators, and that some of them had expressed the opinion that the word “unlimited,” a3 well as the word “free,” should be used in describing the mintage which: such # conference as is pro- posed would be called to secure, .but the caucus decided not to make the addition. The discussion which took place developed that the senators were of opinion that the one term realiy 2mbruced the other. It Was stated that the language employed was precisely the language which had been uged in the legislation providing for the four previous confercnzes on the same~sub- Ject, and it was urged that any change in wording might injure ihe prospects of se- curing a conference with the European ably de oh ondhys ab Dhekoae Trees representatives? iri. ne The Philadelphia at Caliae. 1 received Navy Department today of Admiral Mr. Sherman’s Desires in Regard to It Have Been Respected. Wants the Next Administration Un embarrassed—What Spain is Anxious fer — The explanation of the sudden cooling off of the Senate foreign relations committee toward the Cameron Cuban resolution is found in the final announcement of the selection of Senator Sherman for Secretary of State. The fact has been known by the members of that committee for some time. Mr. Sherman as chairman of the foreign relations, committee and pros- pective Secretary of State is in a position to secure the reporting of his wishes with relation to foreign affairs by his colleagues on the committee. He made it known that it would accord with the wishes of the new administration to have the Cuban question remain unembarrassed by con- gressional action pending the Inauguration. Mr. Sherman’s friends insist that he is not unfriendly to Cuba, but that he still ad- heres to the positiun he assumed when the question of Cuban independence first arose. hey say that his antagonism to the Cameron resolution was based eutirely on the desire that the new administration should be left to deal with the question if it should not b> settled by Mr. Olney. They insist, therefore, thai as Secretary oF erate he will favor an aggressive Cuban polic; Spain’s Anxiety. As conceras a settlement of the Cuban quest‘on by Spain at this time the facts ap- pear to be that Spain realizes that the war in Cuba is exhausting her resources, and that ske will not be able to put down the rebellion. She, therefcre, wants, before this administration draws to a close, to lead the United States into an agreement which will place Mr. Cleveland more direct- ly in antagonism to Cuban independence. The best available information is that Mr. Cleveland would be glad of such a conce: sion as this implies on the part of Sp in and would care little fos the sentiments of the insurgents; but Mr. Olney takes a dif- ferent view of the matter, and will not be apt to accept such terms as Spain is likely to suggest. The attitude Mr. Cleveland is represente] as holding amounts to a will- ingness to interfere only to an extent that will not involve the separation of Cupa from Spain. His feeling toward Cuba seems to be about whit it was toward Hawaii, and is influence! largely by a de- sire to maintain the consistency of 1 lamented Hawaiian policy. The Monroe Doctr! This was disclosed in an interview he had some time ago with a very distin- guished man, who tock occasion to con- gratulate him upon the policy of upholding the Monroe doctrine. He replied to the congratulation that he fully believed tn the Monroe doctrine. “But,” he added, re- peating twice, “It does not apply to islands; it does not apply to islands!” The sentiment disclosed here is what has governed Mr. Cleveland in his Cuban pol- icy, and made him unwilling to yield to Mr. Olney or to regard public sentiment. The Spanish government, understand: this, and knowing, also, that no cance: sions that do not give Cuba her liberty will be accepted by the insurgents, can afford to make insineere offers, with the view of influencing public sentiment in this country. It is expected that whatever there is being secretly done under the pre- tense of a desire for pacification will drag out through this administration. ee REFORMS FOR CUBA, Reported Decision of Ministry. LONDON, January 15—A dispatch to the Pall Mall Gazette from Madrid says that at a cabinet meeting just held, the queen re- gent presiding, it was agreed to introduce reforms in the Island of Cuba, and a royal decree on the subject will be published on the king's fete day It Is added that it is possible that Julio Sanguilly, the American citizen recently sentenced at Havana to imprisonment for life on the charge of conspiracy against the government, will be granted a free pardon. No Negotiations With America. MADRID, January 15.—Senor Canovas Del Castillo, the Spanish premier, in an in- terview, declares that absolutely no nego- tiations are proceeding between Spain and the United States on the subject of Cuba. He explained that he is ignorant of the source of the rumors, and only desired to state that they are completely unfounded. On the other hand, it is declared that early In February the government will publish a decree providing for Cuban re- forms, allowing as much autonomy as the sovereignty of Spain will permit. —_—_ ART CIRCLES SURPRISED. the Spanish Election of Mr. Sargent Due to the Younger Academic LONDON, January 15.—Benj. Williams Leader, A.R.A.,” was on everybody's lips as the new academician, and the election of Mr. Sargent yesterday was therefore a surprise. It was due to the influence of the younger men In the academy. On the first ballot each received ten votes, and on the final ballot Mr. Sargent received 32 votes and Mr. Leader 20 votes. Mr. Alfred Parsons’ election as an clate was a reward more for his black and white work in America than for his paint- ings. He is regarded as belonging to the American set. The election of the Americans has been greeted with universal satisfaction. Mr. Sargent was warm!y congratuiaied by his brother artists, and the newspapers tuis morning express full approval. The Daily News says of the subject: “The academy has jone admiraoly and has manifested its intention to invest the expression, ‘Academici with a more non- orable significance than usually attaches to it in an artistic sense. Sargent has beaten his master, Carolus Duran, on his cwn ground. He has surpassed Romney in a painter’s skill, while his vivaecity is only equaled by Millais. He is ‘alos: worthy of the jealousy of Velasque: ‘The Dally Graphic say: “When the most British and conserva- tive academy thus elects Americans we may fairly wonder at our mugnanimity and large-mindedness. Suc’ incidents pro- oie international cmity, being not an empty compliment, but genuine con: nomage frankly offered. = mee —_—_ THE CHARGE IGNORED. The Grand Jury's Action im a Libel ‘Case Brought by Mr. Conn. The grand jury this afternoon reported to Chief Justice Bingham, in Criminal _—_OO— ELECTRIC LIGHTING eae Important Action of the Senate Dis- trict Committee, THE COCKRELL RESOLUTION ADOPTED Work of the Potomac Company May Be Stopped. cn ceapiaenae A LENGTHY DISCUSSION amma pial, ‘The Senate committee on the District of Columbia took action today in regard to the electric light controversy, which may de the forerurner of congressional action to stop the Potomac Electric Power Com- pany in its work of laying conduits for its wires, and will be regarded by many as a severe reprimand for the District Commis sioners. The committee voted to make a favorable report on the Cockrell joint resolution re lating to the laying of electric subways { the District of Columbia. 5 This report will be made to thé Senate on Monday, and it is extremely probat that the Senate will pass the joint resolu- tion and the fight will then be transferred to the House of Representatives. Wi Stop If the joint r the House and signed by the President the work of tearing up the streets, In order that the Potomac Electric Power Com- pany’s conduits may be put down, will be stopped, and that company, it is i by those who have studied the legal 4 of this question, will have no recourse ex- cept perhaps in the prosecution of a claim for the loss it will have incurred in prose- cuting its work up to the time of the pas- sage of the joint resolution. The Cockre When the Senate committee met this morning there were present Messrs. Me- Millan, chairman: Proctor, Gibson, Martin, Smith, Baker, Faulkner and Bacon. Th important. busin before the committee was the Cockrell joint resolution, which is as follows Whereas it is provided by the act of June 11, 1806 Guth Statutes, page 401), that no underground electric-lightin duits shail be laid th wires or con- District ting in the in lumbia east of Rock creek, exce} extension of the existing electric-lighting service within certain specitied territorial limits; and w the Se nd House are both investigating, through Uheir respective com- mittees of the District of Columbia, the subject of the laying of ele 5 $ in the streets, ruads, avenues and alleys of the District of Columbia, as recommended hy the Commissioners of the sald District in their letter of February 8, 1896, and as provided by Senate bill 2031 and House bill 520 accompanying said letter: Therefore, Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of America in Congress as- sembled, That until definite action is taken by Congress regarding the construction of said general subway system it shall be unlawful to open any streets, reads, ave- nues or alleys in the District of Columbia fcr the purpose of laying electrical wires, cables cr conduits therein, excepting in che extension of the existing @lectric lighting service within <he territorial limits § fied in said act: Provided, however, That in cases where the public interests shall, the opinion of the Commissioners of ‘the District of Columbia, require an immediate extension of existing service, permits may be issued therefor, and atso for all neces- sary house connections to the United States Electric Lighting Company in the terri- tory lying east of Rock creck, and to ¢ Potomac Light nd Power Company the territory lying west of Rock cr Commissioner Truesdell’s Argument. ‘There was quite a lengthy discussion over the question involved In the joint tion. Commissioner Truesdell had a « ple days previously argued for two hours to show the committee why the Potomac Power Company should be allowed to « tinue to lay its subways, and it is ge ally believed that he considered that arguments would prevail and that no tion adverse to the course he approy would be taken by the comm What Maj. Powe! a. When the three Commissioners were fore the Senate committee a few days ago, Maj. Powell, the Engineer Commissioner, had talked in advoca of the position taken by the board of Commissioners in granting permits to allow the Potomac company to dig up the streets in order that they might lay subways for their wires, to be used in fulfilling contracts for publ Nghting for the current fiscal year. That contract was signed by all the Com- missioners, Commissioner Ross withholding his signature for a time pending inquiries he made regarding the propriety of the board’s action In granting a contract to the Potomac company, when the United States Electric Lighting Company had previously done the work, and claimed that the Com- missioners had no authority to grant per- mits for such lighting except to themselves. Appropriations Committee ignant. There is no doubt that that potent fac- tor in legislation, “senatorial courtesy,” had some influence in deciding the Senate committee to order the favorable rm on the Cockrell joint resolution. The Senate committee on appropriations claimed that when it passed upon legi tion in favor of the Potomac Electric Power Company that company had agreed that it would confine its operations west of Rock creek, leaving the territory east of that stream to the United States Company. In bidding for and securing a contract evst of Rock creek the committee members claim that the Potomac company broke faith with them and there has been a very decided feeling of indignation in the ap- propriations committee over the action of the Potomac comipany ever since it invaded the territory erst of Rock creek. The action of the Senate committee on the District of Columbia today places that committee in line with the committee on appropriations. There is little doubt that the Senate will promptly indorse the action of the committee on the District of Colum- bia. While the Potomac Company has proceeded legally and under a strict tnter- pretation of the law bearing on electric lighting in the District of Columbia mem- bers of the Senate appropriations commit- tee are no less indignant because they claim that their “understandirg” should have beer respected by the Potomac Com- pany. What the Potomac People Cia It is claimed by those interested in the Potomac company that the “understand. ing” regarding territory to be allotted to the Potomac and the United States com- in res re his