Mr. Day to Mr. Woodford.
Washington, April 5, 1898—12 midnight.
The President highly appreciates the Queen’s desire for peace. He can not assume to influence the action of the American Congress beyond a discharge of his constitutional duty in transmitting the whole matter to them with such recommendation as he deems necessary and expedient.
The repose and welfare of the American people require restoration of peace and stable government in Cuba. If armistice is offered by the Government of Spain the President will communicate that fact to Congress.
The President’s message will go to Congress to-morrow. It will recount the conditions in Cuba; the injurious effect upon our people; the character and condition of the conflict, and the apparent hopelessness of the strife. He will not advise the recognition of the independence of the insurgents, but will recommend measures looking to the cessation of hostilities, the restoration of peace and stability of government in the island in the interests of humanity, and for the safety and tranquillity of our own country.