vital need, of providing for a substantial reduction in the tariff
duties on Cuban imports into the United States. Cuba has in her
Constitution affirmed what we desired, that she should stand, in
international matters, in closer and more friendly relations with us
than with any other power; and we are bound by every consideration of
honor and expediency to pass commercial measures in the interest of
her material well being.


This recommendation was merely giving practical effect to President
McKinley's words, when, in his messages of December 5, 1898, and
December 5, 1899, he wrote:

It is important that our relations with this people (of Cuba) shall be
of the most friendly character and our commercial relations close and
reciprocal. * * * We have accepted a trust, the fulfillment of which
calls for the sternest integrity of purpose and the exercise of the
highest wisdom. The new Cuba yet to arise from the ashes of the past
must needs be bound to us by ties of singular intimacy and strength
if its enduring welfare is to be assured. * * * The greatest blessing
which can come to Cuba is the restoration of her agricultural and
industrial prosperity.


Yesterday, June 12, I received, by cable from the American minister in
Cuba, a most earnest appeal from President Palma for "legislative relief
before it is too late and (his) country financially ruined."

The granting of reciprocity with Cuba is a proposition which stands
entirely alone. The reasons for it far outweigh those for granting