duties, he still continues to rule in Cuba, having refused to give up
his command until he sails.

He has issued a report in which he states once more that he has nearly
crushed out the rebellion. He draws a lively picture of the desperate
state of the island when he was appointed governor, and then shows the
great improvements he has made.

According to his statement, Havana is in an absolutely healthy
condition, and great preparations have been made for continuing the war
now the rainy season is over; he also praises the fine condition of the
hospitals in Havana--statements which have all been proved false time
after time.

Every failure or defeat that he has met with he attributes to the want
of soldiers. He declares that he had not enough men under his control
properly to garrison Holguin or Victoria de las Tunas, and it was for
this reason that they fell.

He has to say something in his own defence, but it is doubtful if many
people will be deceived by this wonderful report.

* * * * *

Spain has asked for an explanation of the _Silver Heels_ affair.

Minister de Lôme has called the attention of the State Department to the
case, and asked why the officers on the revenue cutter allowed the
vessel to escape them.