The Providence news. (Providence [R.I.]) 1891-1906, 1898-10-12
ALGER's ANSWERS.

II
| Ine Six Questions Propounded by the
Investigating Commission.
Washington. Oct 1.-THE following is
Secretary Alger's reply to the questions
OF the war investigating commissioni
l-Plan Of campaign proposed immedi-
ately after the declaration of war; was
II intended TO move at once on Havana,
Or that the campaign should be postponed
until the autumn?
Answer-Immediate blockade by the
navy OF the important ports of Cuba, as
directed by the presidents proclama-
tion; the holding Of troops at points
nearest to Cuba to be available In any
emergency which might arise, and es-
pecially to be ready for prompt assist
ance in esse the operations of the navy
should make the use of land forces desir-
able. Early in May a plan was par.
TALLY matured to land force at Mariel,
a point about 26 miles west OF Havana.
reports having been received that In its
immediate vicinity were high grounds.
well watered and suitable for camping
troops preparatory 10 a movement upon
Havana later IL IL was deemed advisa-
bic, the thought being that possibly an
assault might be made upon the forces
defending that city before the rainy
season set in. Orders were issued 10
that effect in May but subsequently
plans were changed on account of fur
ther information that there would be
great danger TO the health OF the troops
In that vicinity, and also on account of
the uncertainty OF the movements of the
enemys fleet. IL was then determined
10 Keep the forces In the United States
at points as near Cuba as possible for
immediate embarkation should an emer-
gency demand ii. The Santiago cam
paign proved to be that emergency. II
should be added further that 1t was be-
lieved, after consultation with medical
authorities, that troops camping i'm |
southern states during the summer |
would become somewhat acclimated for |
their service in Cuba.
2-When was the Santiago campaign |
determined upon?
Answer-The Santiago campaign was
made necessary by the presence of Ad- |
miral Cervera's fleet I'm Santiago harbor
but had previously been contemplated
as one point on the coast where a recon-
noisance In force was to be made TO as
certain the strength of the enemy in the
different localities in eastern Cuba.
3-Why was Tampa selected as the
base of operations?
Answer-On account OF the shipping |
facilities at that point and its compara-
lively short distance from Cuba. rem
dering any movement Of the troops pos
sible on short notice as the progress of
the blockade or any other sudden condi- |
tion might require.
4-Why were summer camps organized
ut Fernandina, Jacksonville and Tampa?
Answer-All of the early camps in the
south were selected with special regard
for the health of the troops and their
for prompt movement by
rail and water. The camp at Fernan-
dina was organized on the recommenda-
tion OF the major general commanding
the army. The camp at Jacksonville |
was selected on the recommendation OF
Major General Lee, II. S. W. command
ng the Seventh army corps. A perma-
1ent camp was never contemplated at
Tampa. Troops were sent there prepar-
ttory for embarkation and were kept
here to be ready for any emergency and |
ater TO embark for Porto Rico; and upon
he signing of the protocol the troops.
,eing no longer required al Tampa, were !
ent to Huntsville. Ala, a camp selected |
~ officers detailed to ascertain the best
amping site. having in view health and ,
omfort of the soldiers.
5-When was the Porto Rico campaign ,
determined upon? :
Answer-The Porto Rico campaign ,
ad been long under consideration and s
he orders TO carry 1t out were issued ,
une 26. 1898. =
6-Why were the troops held on trans .
orts after embarkation at Tampa? G
Answer-Troops were held on trans s
orts after embarkation at Tampa on .
ccount Of advice received from Commo- 4
ore Remy that Spanish cruiser sec
nd class and Spanish torpedo boat de- r
troyer seen by Eagle, Nicholas channel, v
uba; destroy convoy" p
AVEN'T DISCUSSED PHILIPPINES .