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114 its utmost interest." From that day to this the island has disturbed our statesmen and played an important part in our foreign policy. The United States, always greatly interested in the government and general welfare of this wonderful island, has reached that period when it is absolutely necessary to her that Cuba should have a progressive, legal, and peaceful administration. The ties of commerce have been so strengthened and the investments of her people there so increased, that she can no longer look on with indifference to the one or disregard the rights of the other. The geographical and strategical position of the island too appeals for a closer connection with the great American Republic. Anchored at the mouth of the Gulf of Mexico, whose waters wash the shores of five American States; in position to protect the trade of the Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio valleys; standing like a huge sentinel to watch over the proposed transit across Nicaragua; with shores indented with splendid harbors; with an ideal and unrivaled winter climate and immense resources—Cuba, whether an independent republic or later Americanized and annexed to the United States, is destined at last to emerge from the dark shadows of the past, and stand side by side with those countries who have their place in the broad sunlight of peace, progress, and prosperity.

—For several of the pictures in this article we are indebted to The International Society, of 91 and 93 Fifth Avenue, New York, the publishers of General Lee's forthcoming book on Cuba. For the first picture on page 107 we are indebted to the Rev. E. A. Watkins of Albany, New York.