The times., 1901-04-26

mission. was the first to speak, and he
was followed in order by President Ca
| pote. Judge Llorente, General Betan-
| court, and General Portuondo. Ques-
tions were freely asked by the delegates
and replied to by the Secretary of War
and General Wood. The result was ap-
| parent at the close Of the meeting when
General Portuondo declared that the in
terview was very satisfactory The
principal clause under discussion re-
( lates to the consent of Cuba that the
United States may exercise the right to
intervene"
Secretary Root went into a full and
complete explanation Of the meaning
of this section, pointing out that it is
mainly for the preservation of the in
dependence of Cuba. He declared that
in the absence Of a recognition by Cuba
Of the right of the United States to in
tcrvene, should ii be necessary to ac-
lively protect Cuba against any foreign
Power, the position of the United States
would be weakened lie thought.
therefore, that Cuba should, fer her
own self defence. recognize the right of
the United States to intervene should it
be necessary to do so TO preserve Cuban
Independence, or should 1t be necessary
for the protection of life, property, and
individual liberty.
He held that it naturally followed
that Cuba should permit the United
States to have coaling or naval sta
tions, which would be of great advan-
tage TO the United States in The event
Of being called upon 20 maintain Cuban
independence, or should they be needed
for the defence of the United states in
the event of war with any foreign ma
ton.
Secretary Root showed how the tradi-
tions of the United States were all op-
posed to the idea Of any foreign Power
securing a foothold in Cuba. and how
the terms OF the Plat amendment were
intended 10 prevent any foreign Power
frcm securing control of the island
which might thereby threaten the in
dependence of Cuba.
While the question Of the Isle of Pines
was touched upon. it received but Little
consideration.
The discussion ended for the day
about o'clock and the delegates hur-
ried 10 the Richmond Hotel, where a
reception was rendered them by Gen
eral Wood, Secretary Root being also
present. Secretary Root will give the
luncheon today, and the
~ill be continued at another
To be held in the War Depart /
nent. 1t is expected that the commits /
sion will conclude its work at this meet 1
ing If this expectation is fulfilled /
General Wood will leave tonight for /
and viii be followed in a few
days by the members of the commits /
SIGN.
One feature Of the visit of General
Wccd to Washington and his confer
NICE with the President is Of particular
interest 10 Cuba. The economic condi-
ion of the island was presented by
General Wood in very positive terms.
He declared to the President that the
condition in the island demanded that
be done toward modifying
he duty imposed by the United States
N Cuban imports, and he made a for
nal recommendation that the duty on
ugar and tobacco be reduced. His rec
was made so strongly
hat it is said that the President will
lrge upon Congress that some legisla-
ion be enacted looking to such reduc-
ion.
Last night the President entertained
he delegation at dinner, at which a
lumber of Senators. Representatives,
nd other officials were present. Cuban
naifers were informaiIY discussed.