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218 State, replied to this optimistic cable in almost savage style. Said he:

"There remain general conditions in Cuba which cannot be endured, and which will demand action on our part unless Spain restores honourable peace. * * * April 15 is none too early date for accomplishment of these purposes. * * * It is proper that you should know that, unless events otherwise indicate, the President, having exhausted diplomatic agencies to secure peace in Cuba, will lay the whole question before Congress."

On the 24th the Spanish Cabinet submitted a plan. They agreed to an immediate armistice, provided the Cubans would do the same; and agreed to submit terms of peace to the Cuban Congress, in the meantime having granted that Congress authority to negotiate peace.

Certain it is that they were "coming across," as the phrase goes.

But Secretary Day was not to be satisfied