Page:Messages of the President of the United States on the Relations of the United States to Spain (1898).djvu/118

 Rh

February 21, 1898.

Great need divers get effects and bodies from wreck; two now employed; twelve or fifteen could be used. One hundred and forty-three bodies buried. Very few found to-day. Over one hundred supposed to be confined in ship. Sailors now in two Spanish hospitals number eleven. Visited them yesterday; all will recover, except two; are comfortable and well cared for.

Havana, February 18, 1898.

I have the honor to transmit herewith a translation of a communication from the Governor and Captain General, expressing sorrow for the loss of the Maine.

Consul-General.

February 19.

The Government of the United States has already begun an investigation as to the causes of the disaster to the Maine through officers of the Navy especially appointed for that purpose, which will proceed independently. This Government will afford every facility it can to the Spanish authorities in whatever investigation they may see fit to make upon their part.

2em

February 22, 1898.

Copper cylinders' ammunition found intact in 10-inch forward magazine, starboard side, this morning. Seems to show that magazine now exploded. Evidence beginning to prove explosion on port side by torpedo.