Burlington weekly free press. [volume] (Burlington, Vt.) 1866-1928, 1902-01-23

battle of Santiago and of the campaign.
which preceded It, Nothing finer is to be
found in the history of the American navy
than Clark's performance in bringing the
Oregon around Cape Horn at fast-cruiser
speed. When he reached the east coast of
South America he was met with rumors
that the Spanish squadron was in those
waters and that he might encounter it at
any moment. But Clark was not afraid.
For several days the Oregon was in fight
ing trim, decks cleared for action.
Capt. Clark cabled the government from
Bahia, Brazil, that in case of a meeting
with the Spanish ships he believed he could
fight them off or cripple them. An inter-
esting story of his plans is now told In case
of an encounter with the enemy he pro-
posed to turn the Oregon around. to draw
the enemy after him. Then. when they
were scattered over the sea in the long
stern chase, he planned to turn about all
of sudden and engage the hostile ships
one by one. Naval men say they have no
doubt that il Clark had met Cerveras
squadron he would have been able to dis
pose of them almost as thoroughly as they
We're afterwards disposed of at Santiago.
According to President Rooscvclt's be-
lief Clark's feat in bringing the oregon up
through the Caribbean Sea while she was
in danger of attack from all the ships of
Ccrvoras squadron was a most gallant ac-
ton, and one which outranks in import
ancc, in actual bravery ana In fine exam
nlC any other naval performance during
tho war with Spain. In the preliminary
campaign on the Cuban coast Clarl, hand
led the Oregon faultlessly and no com
plants were ever made against him.
When the battle came on he sent the Orc
son at an amazing speed after the fast
Colon and TO this day it is a matter of
dispute among naval experts which ship
poured most shot into the Spaniard, the
oregon or the Brooklyn. At least honoIs
are easy. 1t is also conceded that Clark
did as much as any other officer to win
the fight. and the only reason why he has
not attracted as much attention as Schloy
is because he did not have as high rank,
being only a captain of Il ship, while
, Schlcy was in command of the western
squadron of Admiral Simpsons fleet.
"Thc friends Of Admiral Schlcy are well
pleased with the honor which the prcsi-
dent has bestowed upon Captain Clark,
clark was loyal to Schley curing the in
Vcstigation before the court of inquiry and
uttered not one word in dcroEation of his
superior officer, by whose side he had
fought so well at Santiago.
"lf the President can ind the way he
will secure promotion for Captain Clark
before June A special act of Congress
will be necessary to make him either "a
rear admiral or a vice admiral, but it is
likely to be done. At the present time
Captain Clark is eighth on the list of cap
tains. From this flag number to the honor
of representing the American navy at the
, Kings coronation is great jump and one
earned by solid merit
1t is evident from this that President
Roosevelt could not have made a more
happy selection for special representative
of the navy at King Edwards corona-
zion, no matter from what point of view
the matter is considered and it can lie
seen that this honor will help to secure
for Capt Clark the full recognition which
he has deserved at the hands of the Amer
, lean people.