Staunton spectator. [volume] (Staunton, Va.) 1849-1896, 1858-06-22
British Aegress,ons.

From the late news from Havana, it is evident
that SO far as any aggressions upon our flag have
been committed they have been in violation or
excess of instructions, and will be promptly dis
avowed by the British Government. The Brit
ish Consul, Mr.. Crawford, has assured General
Concha that the visitations of American vessels
have been unauthorized, and that the officers in
command of the offending cruisers will unques-
tionably be sent home and court-martialed
The news from England is also favorable to a
peaceable settlement of the pending difficulties.
Mr.. Fitzgerald stated in Parliament, in reply to
questions, that the American Government had
made grave charges against certain British Off.
GERS but no official account had been received
from those officers. He could only say that if
occurrences such as those complained of had &C.
Cured they would be viewed with the deepest
regret by the Government and immediate expla-
nations given. The fullest information should
be laid before Parliament as early as possible
Meanwhile, he had only to add that orders had
been sent out to the officer in command of the
squadron in Cuban waters to make every inquiry
into the subject, and that the greatest caution
and forbearance should be exercised towards
vessels bearing the American flag.
The London Times, in a leader on the search
ing of American vessels reiterates its objections
against the policy of maintaining a squadron
which has proved soineffctua for the end in view.
1t says, whatever the right of the case, and how
ever far Americans may be ready to go at pres
emit for peace sake, we cannot but look forward
to day when it will be more disagreeable, and
at the same time more unnecessary, for the Amer
leans to submit, and still greater let down for
our pride togve away. After passing some cen.
sure upon the apathy of the American Govern.
ment in the suppression of the slave trade, it
as follows: 1--WE do not compel her
to the virtue she has not. Before very long the
mere attempt must bring on fearful war. Is
there no such thing as giving up crusade which
began with error, has been optional, and is found
to be Intellectual.
In the city Article of the Times some refec
tions are made on the same subject, and it is
asked whether, supposing America to be unwil-
ling to find ships for the slave trade if there
might not be an agreement made for one or two
American officers to be received as permanent
guests on board British vessels, while serving OIL
such duties, and for all searches to be conducted
under the auspices of such American officers.
The Daily News editorial on the same subject
regards the affair as disagreeable one, butthnks
it is premature to jump at conclusions without
hearing both sides of the question. 1t discredits
the reports made by some of the American cap
tains.
The London Post thinks if ipjury has been sus-
tanned England cannot refuse the reparation de-
manded by Cass, and calls for such forbearance in
the matter complained of as will not endanger
the friendly relations between the countries.
The London Star thinks the danger is immi.
nent, unless the British Government recede from
its untenable position.