File No. 837.00/695.
[Untitled]
Sanguily said to-day that Cuban Government thoroughly understood that American Government reserved right to land forces in its judgment; that all possible facilities in the way of supplies, transportation [Page 254] and cooperation will be given our troops; that his Government welcomed the sending of marines to Guantánamo and that the Cuban troops thus relieved from guard duty would be immediately put in the field. He asked me to transmit the President’s request that the officers in command of our forces be instructed to deliver to the municipal authority any rebels who surrender or are captured by them. This is for the purpose of combating belief among the negroes that by surrendering to Americans they will become prisoners of war and will be released upon the termination of hostilities. Sanguily said that although the Cuban Government thoroughly understood our attitude and the more intelligent Cubans approved the landing of troops, there is still a considerable element of suspicion among ignorant classes. This may complicate situation unless successfully combated by some such means as a definite agreement for harmonious action of Cuban and American forces, which would show the negroes that we are determined to lend our support to the constituted Government. In conclusion Mr. Sanguily stated that although he had no authority from the President to ask for the sending of more troops, he could state that it was the intention of the Cuban Government immediately to employ in active operations any troops relieved by the arrival of our forces.