expected to carry on the conflict. This decree was gazetted in
Madrid on Sunday, April 24, in the following terms:

Diplomatic relations are broken off between Spain and the United
States, and the state of war having begun between the two
countries numerous questions of international law arise which must
be precisely defined chiefly because the injustice and provocation
come from our adversaries and it is they who, by their detestable
conduct, have caused this grave conflict.

We have observed with strictest fidelity the principles of
international law and have shown the most scrupulous respect for
morality and the right of government. There is an opinion that the
fact that we have not adhered to the declaration of Paris does not
exempt us from the duty of respecting the principles therein
enunciated. The principle Spain unquestionably refused to admit
then was the abolition of privateering. The government now
considers it most indispensable to make absolute reserve on this
point in order to maintain our liberty of action and uncontested
right to have recourse to privateering when we consider it
expedient, first by organizing immediately a force of cruisers
auxiliary to the navy, which will be composed of vessels of our
mercantile marine and with equal distinction in the work of our
navy.

Clause 1--The state of war existing between Spain and the United
States annuls the treaty of peace and amity of Oct. 27, 1795, and
the protocol of Jan. 12, 1877, and all other agreements, treaties,
or conventions in force between the two countries.