Consul-General Steinhart to the Secretary of State.
Your cable received and directly communicated to the President, who asks ships remain for a considerable time to give security to foreigners in the island of Cuba, and says that he will do as much as possible with his forces to put down insurrection, but if unable to conquer or compromise, Cuban Congress will indicate kind of intervention desirable. I appreciate reluctance on our part to intervene, especially in view of Secretary Root’s recent statements. Few, however, understand Cuban situation and a less number are able to appreciate the same. This is, of course, without any reference to superior authority. Palma applied public funds in public works and public education, but not in purchase war material. Insurrectionists for a considerable time prepared for present condition, hence Government’s apparent weakness at the commencement. Yesterday’s defeat of rebels gives the Government hope. Attempts useless from the start.