Wood County reporter. [volume] (Grand Rapids [i.e. Wisconsin Rapids], Wis.) 1857-1923, 1903-01-01

sNdSuluS IOu, DSC- OBSERVATION-DISCLOSURES
opposition is developing to the ratif-
cation of the Cuban reciprocity treaty.
It is not taking quite the form the op-
position to Cuban legislation took last
spring, but it is sufficient in substance
to give concern to the friends of the
treaty.
From time to time, as opportunity
offers, the president is discussing the
matter with senators, particularly
those known to have objected to the
enactment of legislation extending
tariff concessions to the Cuban repub-
lie. Several weeks ago it appeared a
treaty would be ratified without diff
Guilty; but some senators now are TAX
ing as strong grounds against the
treaty as they took against the legisla-
ton proposed at the last session of
congress. These senators are of two
classes, those who are opposed on
principle to any tariff tinkering' and
those who represent states whose pro-
ducts may be affected by the conces-
sions extended to Cuba.
Senators Of the first class might be
induced to support the treaty, mas
much as it does not involve, i'll their
view, an attack on the system of pro-
lection, were it not for their apprehen-
sion that ratification of the Cuban
treaty may lead to a demand from
other countries that they, too, be &C
corded special tariff concessions. 1t
has been indicated to the president
that in the event of ratification OF the
pected from Germany within thirty
days for concessions similar to those
accorded Cuba. The most distinct de
sire of the German emperor, it is
pointed out, is for an extension of the
foreign commerce of his empire. He, |
Of course. regards Cuba as a nation
foreign to the United States, and so
far as that point is concerned, on all
tours with Germany. If tariff con-
cessions are granted Cuba, Germany
under the most favored nation clause, |
will request that she be given similar |
concessions. That request may take |
the form, almost, of demand. If it |
De not granted, the fear is expressed |
hat Germany may initiate legislation
hat will be inimical to the Industrial |
development of this country, as far as
Germany is concerned, even if it
should not curtail American commerce
already established in Germany and
is possessions. The same argument
S applied to other countries.
no.
erence with Senator Scott of West
during which they discussed
he reciprocity question. Senator
Scott is DESTROYS that nothing should
De done that in the end might result
n any concession on the part of the
policy.
The president, it is understood, be-
ieves the pending treaty with Cuba
will be ratified. He desires it should
De ratified as promptly as possible and
with as little friction as may be. He
sees in the proposed ratification no
possible assault on the tariff system |
Of this country and believes it would |
be simply a redemption Of the prom
Use, direct or implied, made the Cuban |
people. In this view the president is
by a large majority of the |
senators. While some |
trouble is anticipated in effecting the |
ratification Of the treaty. it is believed |
generally that ratification will not be |
delayed seriously.
Will Not Call Session.
Havana, Dec. 30.-After a lengthy |
between President Palma |
and the members of the cabinet and |
leading senators, it has been decided |
not to call an extra session of the |
senate to discuss reciprocity with the |
United States. Palma is anxious to
bring the discussion of this measure
to an immediate conclusion and has
urged the senate to resume its session
January 5, but this is found impracti-
cable.
United States Minister Squires has
begun negotiations in the
matter of securing a coaling station |
on the island of Pines. 1t is under
stood the United States asks for one !
naval and three coaling stations.