The Princeton union. [volume] (Princeton, Minn.) 1876-1976, 1899-11-23
OPINIONS DIFFER,
Some Think Aguinaldo's Whole Army
Has Escaped-Others Not So Sure.

Some Think Aguinaldo's Whole Army
Has Escaped-Others Not So Sure.
New YORK, Nov. pa dispatch to
The Herald from Manila says: The
opinion Of many military mon and of
residents and foreigners is that Aguin-
aldo has escaped by changing the seat
of war into the northern part of the
island. They think he has taken con-
siderable army with him. This, if true,
will necessitate a new series of opera
tons on our part and Aguinaldo has
gained temporary strategic advantage.
Those holding this view point to the
fact that the insurgents never intended
to hold the alleged capital at Tarlac, as
q permanent capital, as it was only
slightly fortified. They also claim that
the railroad being left intact, while
much rolling stock was burned and de-
stroyed, indicates that a rapid retreat
was made several weeks back.
This retreat must have been accom-
plished at the time Lawton began his
San Isidro movement. Therefore, the
insurgents have had time to move out
their principal supplies and munitions.
It is also fact that our circle of troops
has been closed up so far without ma
terial resistance, except in the region.of
escape to the north, near Wheaton's
column. The captured supplies, too,
have proved insignificant, compared
with those that would be required.
Aguinaldos supposed army in this VAL
ley was estimated at from 10000 to
10000. Their known large quantities
of artillery are still unaccounted for.
Otis and schwan Differ.
The opinions Of General Otis and
General Schwan differ somewhat from
this view. They say that they do not
know whether or not Aguiualdo with
his army has escaped into the Tabacco
valley or to the north. If so they doubt
whether he escaped with any consider
able force. They believe that Aguin-
aldo himself has gone. They also be-
ieve that considerable number of the
insurgents force is scattered in small
bands within our lines as amigos.
Generals Otis and Schwan think that
within d hours we will control the
Manila-Dagupan valley. The occupa-
ton of this territory is now more of a
mechanical than military problem.
There may possibly be some desultory
fighting.
General Otis says that the railroad
repairs will be rushed. New rails will
be laid and the bridges raised. These
will be operated throughout in a short
time. The general opinion here is that
we have gained tremendous advantage
over the insurgents. Satisfaction is ex.
pressed everywhere. Commercial me1
hope that the valley will be quickl,
and permanently garrisoned and thai
their interests will be protected.
It is impossible to say how large q
force Aguinaldo has been able to holt
together, or whether, after the loss O
the railroad people in the north will
still support him. This Who'll,
movement has shown the ad
vantage of cavalry for expedition
operations in the Philippines. The fal
campaign has been remarkably vieo1
GUS. Transportation is still inadeq uate
With the mules that are coming tn
movement of the troops will be muc
facilitated. The roads and trails ar
drying. The last heavy rains of tn
leason have probably fallen. It is bt
iieved here that Aguinaldo's retreat t
the north in no wuy affects the COZ
fronting insurgent force south c
Manila