Mr. Day to Mr. Woodford.
Washington , March 20, 1898 .
President is at loss to know just what your telegram 19th covers, whether loss of Maine or whole situation. Confidential report shows naval board will make unanimous report that Maine was blown up by submarine mine. This report must go to Congress soon. Feeling in the United States very acute. People have borne themselves with great forebearance and self-restraint last month. President has no doubt Congress will act wisely and immediate crisis may be avoided, particularly if there be certainty of prompt restoration of peace in Cuba.
Maine loss may be peacefully settled if full reparation is promptly made, such as the most civilized nation would offer. But there remains general conditions in Cuba which can not be longer endured, and which will demand action on our part, unless Spain restores honorable peace which will stop starvation of people and give them opportunity to take care of themselves, and restore commerce now wholly lost. April 15 is none too early date for accomplishment of these purposes. Relations will be much influenced by attitude of Spanish” Government in Maine matter, but general conditions must not be lost sight of. It is [Page 693] proper that you should know that, unless events otherwise indicate, the President, having exhausted diplomatic agencies to secure peace in Cuba, will lay the whole question before Congress.
Keep President fully advised, as action of next few days may control situation.