The record-union. [volume] (Sacramento, Calif.) 1891-1903, 1898-03-12

WASHINGTON, March 1l-Projects
for the settlement of the Cuban ques-
ton are numerous, but most of them
are regarded in official circles as un-
worthy of serious consideration. One
plan, however, has been presented to
the President, which has received the
approval in a general way Of leading
men, whose counsels have weight with
the Administration, and there is reason
to believe it is the subject of studiouS
reflection in the Cabinet. The proposed
plan gives to Cuba all the rights priv
ileGes and immunities enjoyed by Can
ada, Spain reserving to herself only
such rights as England exercises over
her colonies. The statement as pre-
scented to the Administration is as fol-
lows:
Constantly recurring untoward incl
dents in the relations of Spain and this
country. and the overwhelming evidence
of shocking condition of affairs IN
Cuba, which of themselves justify some
interference, have brought the country
to a state of feeling which, while most
anxious for peace. demands such speedy
action as viii bring the whole affair to
a close. Can We bring it to a close and
avoid the clash with Spain? But one
way seems to be open.
If we insist upon immediate Cuban
Independence we must back the de-
mand by force, for neither Spain nor any
country with any self-respect could toll
crate such interference in what we must
recognize is her domestic quarrel, with
out resentment and resistance. While
we should doubtless succeed, it would
involve ta1rihla loss and still
further suffering to Cuba. and would al
this juncture be of unquestionable BEN
eft to her That she is unfit as whole
for self government just yet is the opin-
ion of many intelligent and impartial
outside observers who have studied her
people and prevailing conditions.
IF we are to intervene as compul-
sorry arbitrator are they to be left
wholly out of account, together With
Spain, and only the insurgent party con-
sidered? Fair arbitrations are not con-
Quoted on so one-sided a basis. Sup
pose now we say 10 Spain that in the
interest of humanity and peace. and for
the preserva ton of our own commercial
interests. we insist upon a cessation of
hostilities, and that we viii take adj
vantage OF II to inform the Cubans that
for the sake OF the same compelling con-
siderations they must concede some
thing. SPANS plight is unquestionabIy
critical one and she could honorably
listen TO such a proposal. The Cubans
on the other hand. would certainly hear
respectfully any views we present TO
them in regard to a settlement and could
not fail 20 follow them.
The precise terms can be worked out
later RtIt il l. mot ,1prpl soma ble n ex-
pect that should Spain offer such self
government as the whole world would
recognize as fair, putting Cuba in the
same condition as an English colony and
Withdrawing from the island as soon
as quiet is restored, all but nominal
military force we might properly insist
on its acceptance. This would be a sub
stantial victory for Cuba, would leave
Spain to retire With self-respect. and
would leave Cuba better off than though
now made Independent Spain has
vainly tried to put down the insUrrec-
ton; the insurgents have vainly tried
to drive Spain out and establish q Gov
eminent, and the only way 10 bring
about speedy peace is to take into con
sideration the claims rights and feel
ings of both parties.
Tine time may possibly come when,
by the operation of the law OF our po-
litical existence. Cuba will fan to use
peacaably. If this prove correct. the
method suggested paves the way for
that. by giving her an opportunity to
gain some experience in lf-goVern-
ment first. If she is to be independent
as very possibly may turn out to be
the cage by and by, preliminary stage
of genuine autonomy 1vofItd best rs.e-
pare her for it. Nor is it desirable at
this time for the United States to nm
dertalse the responsibility Of govern
ing her 1t is unwise and unnecessary
for the United States To assume politi-
cal or financial responsibility in the
case. either or both of which most OF
the plans. so far advanced. involve
IF il should be shown that the Span
ish Government officials are innocent Of
any completely in the disaster to the
Maint and d prompt disaVowal is
made, with an expression of regret ane
an offer to arbitrate the question OF re
sponsibiity and the amount of nden-
nifty, If any WAS found due. the United
States could hardly resist the principle
% arbitration IL settling the question
The Maine disaster. however. is a
distinct incident and should be consld-
cred by itself"