The New York herald. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1840-1920, 1869-04-17
The Administration and the Cuban Ques-
ton.

We are informed by news from Washington
that the Secretary of State has awakened from
his Rip Van Wrinkle sleep of conservatism on
the Cuban question, and that he really con-
templates indicating the national honor in the
case Of Spanish outrages on the American flag
and American citizens. 1t is said he will 90
so far even as to demand prompt reparation
and apology from Spain for these outrages, ''if
the reports about them be true" So far 1t is
all very well, and considering the character of
Mr.. Fish and the hesitating conduct of the
administration, the American people may say
''the smallest favors are thankfully received"
But why this ''if?" Is it not notorious that
Spanish authorities have committed outrages
on our citizens and flag On the high
seas and even in the waters of
friendly POwera The facts are palpable
enough and the cause sufficient TO order
the American feet to make reprisals. We
suppose Spain will apologize or do anything
else TO prevent our government from helping,
directly or indirectly, the Cubans.
But would it not be more consistent with
our national honor and the highest policy to
first strike blow by way Of retaliation and
hear the apology Of Spain afterwards, If Spain
should be disposed to apologize There Is, as
was said, ample cause for such course in the
outrages perpetrated. Besides, no better
opportunity could be desired to carry out
American policy and the wishes of the
American people with regard to Cuba and
Cuban independence. Place England, France
or any other great Power in the position of the
United States, and see how soon blow would
be struck that would settle at once and for.
ever Spanish insults, diplomatic palaver, the
rule of Spain in Cuba and the independence Of
the Cubans. To paraphrase Shakespeare
language, there is tide in the affairs OF
nations which, If taken at the food, leads on
10 national fortune. In the case OF Cuba the
tide is now at the food. Let our government,
comprehend this and seize the opportunity.
Timid old fogies who caanot see beyond
their noses may foolishly talk about our OBJ.
legations to Spain as friendly Power ant
characterize any decided Intervention Of the
United States as filibustering But such al
argument would be puerile, narrow-minded
and show q want Of comprehension of tn
principles that govern great nations. To pre-
serve and perpetuate the principles or system
upon which nation Is founded, to surround
nation with all the bulwarks Of national ex
istence, and to promote its interests, expansion
and grandeur by every attainable means ar
the objects pursued by all governments an
constitute their highest ambition. The teri
flibustering cannot be applied TO grea
nation. Nor are the friendly relations be
tween countries permitted TO interfere wit
questions Of high policy and important ma
tional interests. No great Power Is deterre
by such considerations. We need not 90 f,
back TO history 10 show this fact.
Why did Prussia seize and incorporate th
German States Why does Russia push he
conquests in Asia and Europe? Why doe
! England subjugate India aud every other par