Page:Under Dewey at Manila.djvu/112

90 "If that's the case, we ought to help the poor people, war or no war!" cried Larry, heartily.

"That thought is exactly the thought of those who have lately taken hold, to send supplies to Cuba and to aid in every way possible the poor, sick, and dying. Up to date several hundreds of thousands of the poor people have died from exposure and the want of nourishment, and the whole Christian nation is crying out that such inhumanity must cease. But Spain wants no one to interfere, stating that to give succor to the rebels will only prolong the disturbance which she will soon end."

"Never mind; we ought to help, whether Spain likes it or not, that is my idea of it, Mr. Wells."

"The efforts of the Americans in Havana and elsewhere have stirred up much bad blood, and it was to protect those Americans that the Maine was sent into Havana harbor. Now that the Maine has met with such a sad fate I presume the feeling upon both sides is more bitter than ever. I should not be surprised to hear of a riot in Havana, in which many Americans might be slain."

"But if that court of inquiry finds that the Maine was blown up by some Spanish agents, won't that