SPAIN AND THE STATES – C W Lee’s Diary

SPAIN AND THE STATES   –  WAR VIRTUALLY BEGUN.

Though there has not yet been actual declaration of war between the United States and Spain diplomatic relations with the two countries have been completely suspended and the conflict has virtually commenced. The Spanish Government, it is stated, did not wait for the official notification of the American ultimatum, but gave Woodford his passports in anticipation to prevent its official delivery. It is, however, reported from another source that the Spanish Premier sent a reply to General Woodford stating that Spain refused to withdraw her forces from Cuba, and that the reply was accompanied by the Minister’s passports.

 

The question of diplomatic correctness, however, is as nothing compared with the serious state of things that now stares the world in the face. The United States Flying Squadron at Key West, under Captain Sampson, has been ordered to blockade Cuba immediately preparatory to the invasion of the island by the American troops, which are rapidly being concentrated on the seaboard of the Southern States.

 

Simultaneously the departure of the Spanish fleet, which has been mobilising at the Cape Verdi Islands 3,000 miles from Cuba is announced, but its destination is unknown to outsiders. It will probably meet the American Squadron in Cuban waters, where a decisive naval engagement may take place before we are much older. One important point should not be overlooked.

 

There is a rumour in New York that the Pacific Squadron has been ordered to the Philippines, the most important Spain’s colonial possessions.

 

 

 

BNA © NORTHERN DAILY MAIL AND SOUTH DURHAM HERALD

FRIDAY, APRIL 22nd, 1898