The Green Forest tribune., 1900-09-20
THE PHILIPPINES.
The Present Situation as Seen
 by M. R. Russell.

The Present Situation as Seen by M. R. Russell.
 PENERANDI, P. l., Aug. 1, 1900.
 Dear Readers of THE TRIBUNE: There have been so many con- flicting reports sent out from this country to the United States con- cerning the situation in these Is- lands that l have decided to ex- plain for you the actual condition here as I see it. I have even contracted myself in my state- ments on this subject in former letters to THE TRIBUNE, but, of course, I explained the matter each time as the conditions ap- peared to me.
 When we arrived on the Is- lands, almost a year ago, we were led to believe that we would have the hardest campaign that the Americans had ever anticipated. Insurgents were reported in read mess to attack us on all hands. This was not in keeping with the facts, notwithstanding 1t can truthfully be said that we have been through many dangers and hardships, On our arrival here, it seemed that the Insurgents all disappeared, going out of exist ence. Until we came to Peneran- da, we were never able to engage any of their forces.
 The enemy has been complete ly routed in all of our engage ments and their camps destroyed. During the spring, everything quieted down and we came to the conclusion that we had "the sit uation well in hand," as described by Gen. Otis. But on the night l. of July 4th, when all at once the tables were reversed, it be- came apparent that this part of the country was alive with hos- tile natives and that they intended to wipe US out of existence if they could.
 There seems no doubt about the proposition that the Insurgent army is hinging great hopes upon the result of the Presidential elec- ton in the United States, and are stimulated to action on that ac- count.
 Numerous engagements are had between the Insurgents and our troops that are never given to the public. In many such in stances, Americans are wounded and even killed.
 The Peace Commission have so far accomplished nothing by their offer of S30 each for guns, and transportation home to F'ilipinos who will lay down their arms.
 In view of past experiences and present conditions, 1 am of the opinion that this country will have to be heavily garrisoned with soldiers for S long time to come. At least, l consider that there is no immediate prospects of surrender on the part of the Insurgent army. It is known that they now have over 10000 armed troops.
 A large force of Americans under command of Gen. Funston is now in the mountains south of here engaging the forces of Gen. Lacona, who is leading the Insurgents of this Province. Few casualties are reported from them so far.
 It is mistake to think that the Insurgent army in this country consists of mere guerrilla bands. They are becoming organized in large bodies and are under com- mand of recognized leaders.
 It is now officially announced that the removal of volunteer troops will be commenced early in November, and that they will be returned in the order that they were landed here. This makes it altogether probable that l will be able to spend Christmas with the folks at,fome.
 As ever,
 M. B. RUSSELL. Corp. Go. I, 34 U. $. V.