indicate that the ship had been engaged in unlawful work.

The crew have been subjected to a severe examination. Each man has had
to make a statement before the court.

The master and mate of the vessel swore that the _Silver Heels_ left New
York bound for Wilmington, N.C. Her cargo consisted of one hundred tons
of coal designed for sale in Wilmington.

On account of head winds she could not approach the coast, but was
buffeted about until a few days ago, when she cast anchor in Wilmington
harbor.

The two officers declared that no other cargo than the coal had been on
board, and that there had been no passengers.

The collector found the amount of coal in the ship that the master and
mate swore was there--and so far everything goes to prove that they have
been telling the truth.

The statements of the crew have been sent on to the Government, and the
vessel will be kept in custody as long as it is necessary in order that
a proper investigation may be made.

* * * * *

After thinking matters over, the Spaniards have decided that President
McKinley's Message was not so friendly to them as they at first
supposed.