political status of the native inhabitants." The Congress having added
the sanction of its authority to the powers already possessed and
exercised by the Executive under the Constitution, thereby leaving with
the Executive the responsibility for the government of the Philippines,
I shall continue the efforts already begun until order shall be
restored throughout the islands, and as fast as conditions permit will
establish local governments, in the formation of which the full
co-operation of the people has been already invited, and when
established will encourage the people to administer them. The settled
purpose, long ago proclaimed, to afford the inhabitants of the islands
self-government as fast as they were ready for it will be pursued with
earnestness and fidelity. Already something has been accomplished in
this direction. The Government's representatives, civil and military,
are doing faithful and noble work in their mission of emancipation and
merit the approval and support of their countrymen. The most liberal
terms of amnesty have already been communicated to the insurgents, and
the way is still open for those who have raised their arms against the
Government for honorable submission to its authority. Our countrymen
should not be deceived. We are not waging war against the inhabitants
of the Philippine Islands. A portion of them are making war against the
United States. By far the greater part of the inhabitants recognize
American sovereignty and welcome it as a guaranty of order and of
security for life, property, liberty, freedom of conscience, and the
pursuit of happiness. To them full protection will be given. They shall
not be abandoned. We will not leave the destiny of the loyal millions
the islands to the disloyal thousands who are in rebellion against the
United States. Order under civil institutions will come as soon as
those who now break the peace shall keep it. Force will not be needed
or used when those who make war against us shall make it no more. May
it end without further bloodshed, and there be ushered in the reign of