Mr. Hay to Mr. Day.
Washington, October 25, 1898.
Answering your No. 15, the President directs me to say that under no circumstances will the Government of the United States assume any part of what is known as the Cuban debt, which is fully described in the memorandum of the American Commissioners marked “E,” received this morning, nor would the United States engage to use its good offices to induce any government hereafter, to be established in Cuba to assume such debt. It is not believed that there are any debts outstanding incurred by Spain for existing improvements of a pacific character. It should be made clear what is meant by such improvements and what is included. The President regards it as most desirable that in the present negotiations you should adhere strictly to the terms of the protocol. If this proves impossible, you will ascertain as definitely as you can the exact meaning of their suggestions as to local Cuban debt and the evidences thereof and report to the President with your recommendations.