Mr. Hay to Mr. Day.
Washington, November 5, 1898.
Yours of November 4, special, and that of Senator Davis received. The President has no purpose to question the Commission’s judgment as to the grounds upon which the cession of the archipelago is to be claimed. His only wish in that respect is to hold all the grounds upon which we can fairly and justly make the claim. He recognizes fully the soundness of putting forward indemnity as the chief ground, but conquest is a consideration which ought not to be ignored. How our demand shall be presented and the grounds upon which you will rest it he confidently leaves with the Commissioners. His great concern is that a treaty shall be effected in terms which will not only satisfy the present generation, but, what is more important, be justified in the judgment of posterity. The argument which shall result in such a consummation he confides to the Commission. He appreciates the difficulties and embarrassments and realizes the delicate work before you, but that the Commissioners will be able to conclude a treaty of peace satisfactorily to the country, justified by humanity and by precedent, is the belief of the President and your countrymen generally.