The Montgomery advertiser., 1902-07-18

tions which they cannot entirely control and which hold the lands for the purpose of lawful gain and are alone competent 10 sell them. It may well be that the prices which we will feel justified in offering for the lands will be acceptable. The whole matter may thus be disposed of by friendly agreement, in conformity to the ordinary methods pursued in business affairs. believe that the good under standing which has been reached between the United States and the ecclesiastical authorities in Rome cannot fail to do away with the probability Of friction or difficulty. In the same manner l VIII al- rect the general commanding in the Phil ippines to ascertain by the customary methods. what buildings belonging to the church have been occupied by American troops and for what periods; what dam age has been done and in each case what reasons, If any, exist for denying an ob- ligation to pay rentals and damages; and l shall hope that the conclusion thus reached will be satisfactory to the church.
 For Benefit of All.
 "A similar treatment of all these sub jects mentioned in your proposition may with equal readiness be followed. While 1t is to be regretted that the authorities having control of the religious orders do not see their way to make a definite agreement for the withdrawal from Ma nila ofthe friars formerly Tn the parishes, yet 1t is hoped that pending the settle- ment of these various matters they will reach the conclusion that it Is wise to do the same thing of their own motion and irrespective of any agreement to that effect. However. that may be, you should assure the authorities of the church that we shall at all times do all in our power to continue the good understanding al- ready reached and to agree upon such action as shall be for the benefit of all; and further assure them of our high ap- preciation of the courtesy and considera- ton with which the expression of your views and wishes have been received.
 "As preliminary to the treatment now proposed it Is desirable that the authort- ties of the church should arrange to for ward to you as soon as practicable 1uller definite lists (a) of the property which they are willing to sell and of the pre- else relations which they hold to the title of those properties. If their relation to the title Is by ownership of the stock, then the total stock of corporations amount of stock which they hold and the officers of the corporations; b) of the churches. convents, etc, which they clam to have been occupied by American troops and for which rentals or damages are
 claimed, and with the details of the claim; (c) of the church properties, fer-
 nal title to which remained in the span ish crown at the time of cession and for nal conveyance of which from the Gov ernment is desired. It should be observed as to these that no. authority has been granted by Congress to make such con veyance unless ti be as a part of gem eral settlement, including purchase of the lands; (d) a statement of the various charitable and educational trusts which the authorities of the church consider should be regarded as devolved upon the church rather than upon the State.
 Root,
 "Secretary of War;