The San Francisco call., 1899-01-26

applause which continually broke out
from the Democratic side. For almost
two hours his words poured forth.
When he had finished Dolliver came
ta the defense of the administration
one Of the ablest debaters and perhaps
the most eloquent member Of the
House. his reply set the Republicans
wild with enthusiasm. He described
how the President had been fairly driv-
en- into war by those who now sought
10 embarrass him before peace was
definitely obtained, and his eulogy Of
the President, patiently meeting all the
perpleXing problems which Deset MIN
as the great events of the year moved
on, aroused his side and the galleries
10 cheers. These rang out again and
again as he paid an eloquent tribute
to Admiral Dewey, and broke out in re-
rewed volume when he declared that
the course of some members at both
ends of the Capitol was almost trea-
sonabIe." But the highest pitch of ex-
citement was reached when Johnson
and DOlliver got to close quarters
toward the end of the latter's speech.
Johnson pressed the defender of the
administration to disclose the Presi-
dents ultimate purpose regarding the
Philippines, but DOlliVer for some time
adroitly evaded a direct response. AT
last he contented himself with declar-
ing that this was not the point at is
sue: that the first thing was to end the
war by ratifying the treaty. The fu-
ture of the Philippines was a question
for the future. 1t was in every respect
a remarkable debate.
Gibson CR) of Tennessee was the first
speaker. He advocated the passage Of
the Hull bill. In the course of his re-
marks ne argued that it was too soon for
US to decide upon a permanent policy re-
garding the Philippines. Our present pol
o Icy should be delay until we had thor
Oughly investigated the situation.
Johnson (R.) of Indiana then took the
floor in opposition TO the bill. AS he arose
the Democrats applauded and squared
themselves around in anticipation of some
sensational utterances.
while the President, in the presence of
what he may conceive to be a popular de-
mand," he began. lis hurrying the army
alien people a government against their
will. l propose fearlessly. without regard
to make a plea for liberty and an argu-
ment against the perpetuation of inJus-
tice.
I'VE are on the verge of a crisis" said
Johnson. Those who failed to rush for
ward in support of the schemes of the i'm
.perialists are being denounced here and in
the public press as 'Spaniards,' and men
who fail to do their duty. My answer is
break his silence and openly state that we
do not propose to enslaye the people of
the Philippines, my word for 1t, the pres
ent strained relations in the islands will
cease, those who were but yesterday our
allies will return to their homes. and
there will be no necessity for this pro-
posed increase in the standing army"
But this would not be done. the speaker
added What meant this hasty disavowal
OF Senator Foraker's statement that the
administration had no intention OF hold
ing the islands permanently? II the ad-
Ininistration did not mean 10 hold the
Philippines what meant this clamor of
the administration press? Why had the
Presidents Commissioners demanded the
absolute cession of the islands instead of