New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1898-03-30
RECEIVED WITH HONOR.
HIS NEIGHBoRs WELCOME THE CAPTAIN OF THE
MA1NE-HE HAS NOT YET PREPARED
LOSS OF HIS VESSEL

A FORMAL REPORT On HE
LOSS OF HIS VESSEL.
Washington. March 29.-Captan Sigsbee, Of
the wrecked steamer Maine arrived in Washing
ton at 7:41 o'clock this morning. He was ac-
companied by Paymaster Ray, Chief Engineer
Howell Naval Cadet Holden and Dr. Hene-
berger. The last-named started Immediately for
his home in Virginia The Captain was I'm
,nediateIy driven 10 his home, No. 1852 Riggs
Place. His neighbors on both sides Of the
square had profusely decorated their houses
with flags and bunting. and many OF his friends
and felow-officers had sent large bouquets Of
American Beauty roses and floral designs OF
anchors. etc. as an expression Of their friend
ship and esteem.
When he went TO the Navy Department 10 re-
port his arrival he said he had not yet made any
formal written report TO the Department on the
loss Of the Maine, but would do so as soon as he
had a little time at his disposal. AS to the
cause Of the wreck. Captain Sigsbee said that
he could add nothing to his testimony before
the Court Of Inquiry. which had already been
published.
The Spanish officials were making an inquiry
into the cause of the disaster. but what their
conclusions were, II any had been arrived at,
he did not know A few divers. under the d!-
rection Of some non commissioned officer. were
working leisurely about the wreck, but he had
understood that the Court paying special
attention 70 outside matters. They found he
had heard, that there were no dead nsh IN
the harbor after the explosion. and also that
the explosion did not create such a disturbance
Of the water as might have been expected had
the force come from the outside. However, this
was only hearsay, he having no knowledge OK
their proceedings.
The Captain said th0t every one Knew
the general feeling among Spaniards in Havana
was bitter against this country, Dut ne UIu no'
know whether the proposed sending OF Govern
ment aid would meet with any serious opposi-
ton. He knew very little OF the gehcIdI s4lud-
tion and therefore had formed no opinion as
70 whether this country was likely 10 become
involved in d with Spain KesldehtS ot
Havana he said, knew little or nothlHs oI
what occurring in Madrid beyOn Wha'
Is reported in American newspapers.
Captain Sigsbee IS well known at tne De
partnent, having served as chirf or me llyu!QQ-
graphic Office and his return after the dramatic
and tragic experience he has passed lHIouEh
attracted the greatest interest Of officials, SUD
ordnates and the throngs Of visitors VINO just
now happen 10 be making the Navy Departneht
q centre OF their observations A large party OF
school teachers surrounded him soon after ne
entered the building and each one in turn was
presented and received handshake from the
commander Of The Maine. Everywhere he was
greeted with expressions u the most affection
ate character from his Old naval associates. He
had little 10 say concerning the Maine disaster,
and in fact there was a general desire among
naval officers 90 give Captain Sigsbce some re
lief from this subject
Secretary Long says that no determination
has been reached thus far 10 Captain SlSS-
bees next assignment. But OF the high
officials Of the Navy Department remarked, the
commander Of the wrecked battle-shlp can have
almost anything he wants
A board is considering what shall be done
with the wreck Of the Maine. At first 1t seemed
possible 20 save some part Of the ship. and Ger
tany the big guns and turrets But this has
been almost abandoned. and the board now sit
ting is expected TO report 20 Secretary Long IN
day or two on what final steps shah be taken.