Mr. Day to Mr. Hay.
Washington , July 18, 1898 .
Since telegram of yesterday offer has been received from Spanish Trans-Atlantic Line for transporting Spanish prisoners. We would give such ships, having only such armament as merchant ships usually carry, safe conduct on inward and outward voyage, provided they commit no unneutral act. We desire to know immediately at what Spanish port transports will be received. If American or neutral ships are used, we desire in case of contagion that quarantine station be established ashore, so ships can depart promptly. We desire, whatever the nationality of ships, to make following terms: Spain to provide medical and surgical attendance for prisoners on transports. United States furnish medical supplies. United States furnish rations, but Spain to designate one officer for each ship as commissary to see that rations are sufficient. Spanish officers to assume police regulation of ships.