Page:Messages of the President of the United States on the Relations of the United States to Spain (1898).djvu/115

 86

January 27, 1898.

Just visited General Parrado, Acting Governor-General, with Sigsbee and two of his officers. We were most cordially received, and Parrado returns visit by going aboard Maine to-morrow.

January 28, 1898.

Acting Governor-General Parrado and staff went with me this morning to return visit of Sigsbee. Inspected the Maine, were entertained and given the appropriate salute. Expressed pleasure at their reception and admiration for the splendid battle ship.

February 4, 1898.

Secretary of the Navy thinks not prudent for a vessel to remain long in Havana; sanitary reasons. Should some vessel be kept there all the time? If another sent, what have you to suggest as to kind of ship? Telegraph your views.

February 4, 1898.

Do not think slightest sanitary danger to officers or crew until April or even May. Ship or ships should be kept here all the time now. We should not relinquish position of peaceful control of situation or conditions would be worse than if vessel had never been sent. Americans would depart with their families in haste if no vessel in harbor on account of distrust of preservation of order by authorities. If another riot occurs, will be against Governor-General and autonomy, but might include anti-American demonstration also. First-class battle ship should replace present one if relieved, as object lesson and to counteract Spanish opinion of our Navy, and should have torpedo boat with it to preserve communication with Admiral.

February 5, 1898.

Montgomery arrived Matanzas 10.30 a. m. yesterday.