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About The Corvallis gazette. (Corvallis, Or.) 1862-1899 | View Entire Issue (April 29, 1898)
onntf OUrk VOL. XXXV. CORVAIiLIS, BENTON COUNTY, OREGON, FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 1898. NO. 7. 5 Naval Fleet Ordered to Blockade Havana. SPAIN REJECTS ULTIMATUM MinUter Woodford In Given His Pass ports and Diplomatic Relations Be tween the United States and Spain Are Declared to Be Severed. Washington, April 23. War between the United States and Spain is a fact, though not officially declared so by congress. The stirring events of yesterday were succeeded today with rapidity by others of more importance, culminating in the afternoon in orders for the departure of the North Atlantic squadron for Ha vana. This practically is an act of war, so that the war between this coun try and Spain may fairly be said to date from today. Two minutes after the opening of the Btate department this morning, came word from Minister Woodford that the Spanish government, having antici pated and prevented his intentions to present the president's ultimatum, he had asked for his passports. The ad ministration, in a public statement, announced that it regarded the action of the Spanish government as render ing unnecessary further diplomatic ac tion on the part of the United States, and further stated that it regarded the course adopted by Spain as one placing upon that country the responsibility for the breach of friendly relations. Mr. Woodford's telegram resulted in the calling of a special cabinet meeting to arrange an outline for a plan of cam paign, or rather to determine how to begin the execution of the plan of cam paign already prepared by the strategic boards of the army and navy depart ments. The Blockade of Havana. The result was the immediate order for the Atlantic squadron to begin the blockade of Havana. How much further than this the cab inet progressed in its deliberations it is not possible to say, for the obvious reason that the time has now come when the interests of the government requrie that the movements of the ships and troops should be guarded with the greatest care from undue publicity, in order to prevent the enemy from tak ing advantage of information. The North Atlantic squadron, under Captain Sampson's command, is a splendid array of fine vessels, and this force is quite competent to blockade all the ports in Cuba, or at least all of the ports, connecting by rail with Havana, and so likely to be used to supply that place in the event of seige with food and munitions of war. This statement is to be taken with the understanding that it does not con template the coming to Cuban waters of the Spanish fleet. In such case, however, the probable policy would be to abandon the blockade and endeavor to force the Spanish fleet to battle. Minister Woodford's action during the day, as reported to the state depart ment in a late telegram, indicated that he was following a carefully prepared programme. A significant feature of his message was the statement that the Spanish government notified him that it regarded the withdrawal of Minister Polo yesterday as terminating diplo matic negotiations, showing that it was not disposed to accept the expressed in tention of our government to continue Minister Woodford as a medium of communication any longer. Mr. Woodford also announced that he had instructed Consul-General Bowen, at Barcelona, to call upon all American consuls to withdraw. He further stated that he had in formed the Spanish government, after asking for his passports, that he had placed the American legation in Mad rid and American interests in Spain generally in the hands of the British ambassador. The ambassador, Right Hon. Sir H. Fry-Drumruond Wolf, is not at present in Madrid, so American interests will be confided to the Brit ish charge, Sir George E. Bonham. To all intents and purposes, this re lieves the state department from fur ther negotiatins as to Cuba, save those relating to privateering, neutrality ob servances and the like. Sending of Troops to Cuba. Captain Sampson's fleet, which has been ordered to Cuba, later on will be supported by troops which will be dis patched to Cuba as soon as in the opin ion of the president it is possible to use them advantageously in the occupation of the island. Meanwhile, as rapidly as troops can be rushed to Key West and other points on the South Atlantic and Gulf coasts, they will be hurried forward. It is estimated that it will take 10 days to concentrate an army sufficient in size with supplies to make the campaign. It is the purpose to gather these troops and make a sharp, decisive movement. Immediately upon the passage of an army volunteer bill by congress, the president will call for 100,000 men. Of this force, it is in tended to use 80,000 men in Cuba, in conjunction with the regular army, now already assembled or assembling at points of concentration. The re maining 20,000 men will aid the ar tillery departments in guarding the sea coast and in manning the heavy guns of the coast defense. The ro vers Notified. It was found necessary to frame a notice to the powers of the attempt of our government to establish a blockade of Havana, a notification required by international law. The navy department today, aside from giving the orders to the squadron, continued the work of adding to the navy, and purchased another ship at Norfolk as an auxiliary cruiser, and some amall yachts. The news of the actul beginning of 'war was received with gravity at the department, and there were many spec ulations as to the ultimate outcome. II I 1 The Ultimatum to Spain. Following Is the text of the presi lent's ultimatum to Spain, as given 3Ut this morning: "April 22, 1898. Woodford, Minis ter of the United States, Madrid: You have been furnished with the text of the joint resolution voted by the con gress of the United States on the 19th inst., and approved today, in relation to the pacification of the island of Cu ba. In obedience to that act, the pres ident directs you to immediately com municate to the government of Spain said resolution, with a formal demand .ipon the government of Spain to at jnce relinquish its authority and gov ernment in the island of Cuba and withdraw its land and naval forces from Cuba and Cuban waters. In tak ng this step, the United States hereby disclaims any disposition or intention to exercise sovereignty, jurisdiction or control over the island, except for the pacification thereof, and asserts its de termination when that is accomplished to leave the government and control of the island to its people under such free and independent government as they may establish. "If by the hour of noon on Saturday next, the 23d day of April, instant, there be not communicated to this gov ernment by the government of Spain full and satisfactory responses to this demand and resolution, whereby the ends of peaoe in Cuba shall be assured, the president will proceed without fur ther notice to use the power and au thority enjoyed and conferred upon him by said joint resolution to such sxtent as may be necessary to carry the same into effect. SHERMAN. " The following statement regarding the sending of the ultimatum to Spain was issued today: Yesterday, April 22, 1898, at about 11 o'clock, the department of state served notice of the purpose of this government by delivering to Minister Polo a copy of the instructions to Min ister Woodford, and also a copy of the resolution passed by the congress of the United States on the 19th. Immedi ately after the receipt of this notice the Spanish minister forwarded to the state department a request for his pass ports, which were furnished him yes terday afternoon. The United States minister at Madrid was at the same time instructed to make a like com munication to the government of Spain. This morning the department re ceived from Minister Woodford the following telegram, stating that the Spanish government had broken off diplomatic relations with this govern ment. This course on the part of Spain renders unnecessary any further diplomatic action on the part of the United States: "Madrid, April 22. Early this morning, immediately after the receipt of your telegram, and before I had communicated the same to the Spanisli government, the Spanish minister of foreign affairs notified me that diplo matic relations had been broken be tween the two countries, and that all Official communications between then respective representatives have ceased. I accordingly asked for safe passports. I shall turn the legation over to the British embassy and leave for Paris this afternoon. I have notified the consuls. "WOODFORD." THE OREGON IN DANGER. Feared That the Spanish Squadron Will Head Off the Battle-Ship. Washington, April 23. It Was sug gested at the navy department that it is possible the Spanish squadron, which sailed from Cape Verde islands today, is heading to cut off the fine battle ship Oregon, now on its way from the Pacific coast to join Captain Sampson's command. There is also some fear that the Oregon may bo taken at an unfair advantage, without knowledge of the existence of war, by the Span ish torpedo-boat destroyer Temerief, which is now at Buenos Ayres. Pos sibly, with a view of avoiding a con flict in the straits of Magellan, where she would be at a disadvantage, the Oregon has been ordered to go around Cape Horn. The Oregon sailed from Callao the 9th inst., since which time nothing has been heard from her. It is believed she is now nearing the por of Montevideo, Uruguay. The formidable Spanish torpedo-boat is supposed to be somewhere in that vicinity awaiting the arrival of the Or egon, and some fear is expressed that she may creep on her unawares and, consequently, considerable relief will be telt when the arrival of the Oregon at some South American port is re ported. It is probable that when the Oregon reaches Rio de Janeiro or Bahia, she may be joined by the Bra zilian cruiser Nictheroy, recently pur chased for the United States navy, and the two vessels will come to the United States together. Weyler Will Take a Hand. London, April 23. The Madrid cor respondent of the Daily Telegraph says: Bullfights have been arranged in all of the large towns, the proceeds to be devoted to the national defense fund. It is still asserted that General Weyler will command an army corps. Run on a Barcelona Bank. London, April 23. A dispatch from Barcelona says the act of the Bank of Barcelona, in withdrawing a large sum from the local branch of the Bank of Spain, caused a run on the latter insti tution, but all demands were met. Malaga Correspondent Leaves. Malaga, April 23. The United States consul, R. M. Bartleben, hae started for Gibraltar. The American flag over the consulate has been re moved, and the archives transferred tc the British consulate. Spain Calls Out Her Reserves. London, April 23. A dispatch from Madrid says War Minister Corres authorized the call of 80,000 reserves. Three vessels loaded with troops left Caliz; destination unknown. Rogers Receiving; Applications. Olympia, April 23. Now that wai with Spain has Degun, the executive office is crowded with people who are anxiously looking for an opportunity tc serve their country, mostly in an offi cial capaoity. Governor Rogers has received two applications from women who would like to serve as army nurses. The Danish manufacturers of clay products are adding improved macbiu iry of the latest style to their yards ind are putting thmselvea in position io turn out the beat sort of clay manu btcturts of all kind. 181 mm Nashville Takes a Span ish Steamer. BROUGHT HER TO KEY WEST The Bneaa Ventura the Unfortunate Vessel The Skipper Surprised, as He TMd Not Know That War Had Been Declared Prize Crew Put on Board. Key West, April 25. The United States fleet was about 12 miles off Sand key light this morning at 7 o'clock when the Spanish merchantman Buena Ventura was sighted bound north. The gunboat Nashville ran her down and put a shot across her bows from the 4-inch gun on the port side aft, manned by Lieutenant Dillingham. The Spaniard ignored the shot, but another closer to her bows brought her to. A prize crew, under Ensign Ma gruder, was put aboard. Captain Luzairaga, in command of her, was astounded. He said ho did not know that war had been declared, but when he was informed of the state of affairs, he shrugged his shoulders and accepted the situation philosoph ically. The Nashville has taken on stores and will return to the fleet, carrying Ensign Magruder, who will be received by Ensign Carleton, of the Snow. A body of marines is pacing the deck of the Spaniard, and her crew of 28 are lounging about the decks in nonchalant fashion. Not a man is in irons. According to prize laws, Captain Maynard will turn the prisoners of war over to the United States district ittorney, who will decide the question of their dsiposition. The Buena Ventura is a tramp steam er of 1,155 tons, and hails from Bilboa, Spain. She has a cargo of lumber, loaded at Pascagoula, Miss., and was bound for Rotterdam. The news of the capture of the Span iard set the people of Key West frantic with enthusiasm. All work was sus pended, and the docks were crowded with people. Commodore Lyons, of the Dolphin, has delivered to United States District Attorney Stripling the papers of the Buena Ventura. He will libel the ship in the United States admiralty court. Satisfaction at the Department. Washington, April 25. The report that the gunboat Nashville had cap tured a Spanish merchant ship gained rapid circulation throughout the navy department shortly after noon today. It caused much excitement, and was eagerly discussed as an outward evi dence of the actual existence of war. Secretary Long, however, had not re ceived word of the capture, except through newspaper sources. Notwith standing this, naval officers credited the report and discussed it as though it was an accepted fact. It was said that a part of the crew had been placed on board, and the captured vessel had a valuable cargo, including considerable coal. Among the officials, the report caused much satisfaction, although it was said the capture of a Spanish warship would have been more acceptable. There is said to be no question as to the right of taking Spanish merchant ships at this time. Two of these Bhips left Galveston within the last day or so with considerable cargoes of cotton on board. Another Spanish ship is said to be en route from Vera Cruz, Mexico, with 1,000,000 pesetas on board, representing the subscription of Vera Cruz to the Spanish in Cuba. Volunteer Army Bill Signed. Washington, April 25. The volun teeer army bill was signed by the pres ident at 3:06 P. M. The bill, as agreed to, reduces the time of enlistment from there years to two. The amendment authorizing the president to organize independent troops was retained, but limits the number to 3,000. The bill leaves it optional for regiment and com pany militia officers to receive commis sions from governors. The senate re ceded from the amendment attaching an engineer officer to the staff of each brigade commander. Topeka Reported Lost. London, April 25. The Diily Mail says that it is stated in Falmouth ship ping circles that the American cruiser Topeka, which left Falmouth the even ing of Tuesday, April 19, was in col lision with the bark Albatross, at mid night, Thursday. According to the Mail, the captain of the Albatross asserts that after the collision the steamer, whose name he did not ascer tain, flashed a light and suddenly dis appeared. He believed she foundered. United States Censorship. Key West, April 25. The United States government has established a cenorship of telegTams, forbidding the transmission of code messages to or from Havana. This begins at once. Monadnock Goes North. Vallejo, Cal., April 25. The United States steamship Monadnock has left for sea, en route to Puget Bound. In her coat of gray paint the Monadnock is not visible at sea 1,000 yards distant. Woodford in Paris. Paris, April 25. General Stewart L. Woodford, the United States minister to Spain, accompanied by tlie party with which he left Madrid, arrived in this city at 7:45 o'clock this evening. Will Bombard Manila. London, April 25. The American squadron at Hong Kong, according to a dispatch from Shanghai, has sailed for Manila, which it will attack. The dispatch says: "Three steamers, recently purchased by the United States government, will follow the fleet with coal. The ap proaches to Manilla are mined. It ii reported here that the priests and com mercial classes in the Philippines are in favor of a peaceful surrender, rather than to suffer a bombardment, but that tho mili tar are determined tomay" PACIFIC COAST SAFE. Warships In These Waters More Than a Match for Spain. Mare Island Navy Yard, April 25. "WTe are prepared today to capture or destroy any force that Spain could pos sibly send against the Pacific coast." said Rear Admiral Kirkland. "In the first place, the Spanish government has no vessels in Paoific waters nearer than the Philippines. We have a greater force than Spain, and can easily take care of the opposing fleet. The next possibility lies in sending a fleet through the Straits of Magellan. Even if Spain had the ships, they would be practically useless after they got into the Pacific, through the lack of coal. "We have two monitors, the Monad nock and the Monterey, that are more than a match for any vessel in the Spanish navy. Besides these , two we liave the Bennington and Mohican, which are now en route from the Ha waiian islands. The Charleston will be in commission by May 1, and if it were necessary we could have the Yorktown and Philadelphia in fighting trim by the Ut of June. "What 1 rely upon largely io com plete our coast defenses are the ten vessels recently acquired. Another valuable adjunct to our Pacific roast defenses is the two torpedo-boats now nearing completion at Portland and one on the Sound. This number can be increased materially if the necessity presents, since each requires only 60 days for building." A MASTERLY STROKE. United States Acted Wisely in Declar ing Against Privateering. New York, April 25. A dispatch to the Tribune from London says: The announcement that the United States, in the event of hostilities, will not re sort to privateering and will be gov erned by the four rules of the declara tion of Paris, is considered a masterly stroke in diplomatic circles While England's sympathy has been witb America from first to last, Spain ha: gained some tactful advantages as negotiations have proceeded. The point has been scored, not by many, but by a few English journals, that while Spain has made a series of con cessions to America, congress in the end has compelled her to fight. All the continental journals have agreed in de scribing the negotiations as one-sided, with Spain in the position of offering one sacrifice after another, without pleasing American opinion. It was important that the state de partment, while justifying war on humane principles, should restrict the area of disturbance as much as possible and guarantee security for neutral com mercial interests. This has been done by tho official announcement from Washington that the government will adhere to the principles of the declara tion of Paris. Nothing could be more satisfactory to England, France and Germany. It is pledged that the United States will respect the four rules of the declaration of Paris, dis countenance privateering, protect neu tral goods under any flag and the ene my sailing under a neutal flag, with the single exception of contraband of war, and recognize the necessity of making a blockade effective in order to render it binding. These four pledges will be the safeguards of European commerce in the pending war. So far as the American practice is concerned, Spain will be placed on the defensive. She will be compelled to repeat these assurances or else alienate European sympathy. The judgment in diplomatic circles is that America has adopted a course which will embarrass Spain, conciliate the commercial and mercantile classes of England and the continent and strengthen the position of the United States. Every one of the four rules of the declaration of Paris is in favor of America in tho event of hostilities. Diplomats perceive at once that Amer ica has nothing to lose and much to gain from the abolition of privateering and the proteetion of neutral commerce and private property under any flag, and the establishment of the principle that a blockade in order to be binding must bo effective. It would be to the manifest advan tage of the United States if both bel ligerents were under obligations to re spect the declaration of Paris. The state department, by taking high grounds in the interest of civilization, may force Spain to follow it. If Spain draws back, owing to a wanton desire to capture and destroy private property at sea, it will be an offense against the commercial interests and moral opin ion of Europe. This is the judgment of diplomatists, members of parliament and representa tives of mercantile England, and they sincerely hope that the announcement of the American intention in today's papers will be followed by similar as surances from Spain. It cannot be doubted that the adherence ot the United States to the declaration of Paris will strengthen English feeling in favor of America and greatly impair the anti-American sentiment on the continent. It will be an appeal to self-interest all around, yet will have a moral justification in the high aims of civilization. Old Glory Burned. Madrid, April 25. This evening a crowd 6,000 strong carrying flags and shouting "Viva Espanal" "We want warl" and "Down with the Yankeesl" burned the Stars and Stripes in front of the residence of Senor Sagasta, who was accorded an ovation. New York, April 25. A dispatch to the Herald from Saint Thomas, says a revolution has broken out in the Ponce district of Porto Rico, and there is riot ing all through the island. Blanco's War Declaration. Havana, April 25. Captain-General Blanco has published a decree confirm ing his previous decrees, and declaring the island to be in a state of war. He also annuls his former similar de crees granting pardon to insurgents, and places under martial law all those who are guilty of treason, espionage, crimes against peace or against the in dependence of the nation, seditious re volt, attacks against the government or against the authorities, and against those who disturb public order, though only by mean of printed mattei. 1 The President Issues His FIRST TIME IN THIRTY YEARS The Call Is for 135,000 Men to Fight the Spaniards Apportionment of the Volunteers by States National Guard Will Have Preference. Washington, April 26. The presi dent today called upon the people of Hi j United States, for the first time in 30 years, to manifest their martial strength, the call this time being to a united people to go forth to battle with a foreign country. The call is for 125,000 volunteers. The secretary of war created a new army corps. The two, taken together, witli regular army soon will move on Cuba, and that meanhile the volunteers will be equip ped and drilled. The president's proclamation, while pctually issued, was not certified to the governors of the states and territories, and will not be until Wednesday. The reason is twofold. In the first place, the war department wishes to avoid destroying the present organization of the National Guard, which is to be called into service first. The Guard regiments are composed of 12 com panies, and being officered more nu merously that the regular army, would have to be changed to correspond to the army organization in order to com ply with the order as it exists. The pending Gull bill, however, provides for meeting just such an emergency, and permits the use of the National Guard, as organized. This is more impotant than would appear at first, inasmuch as many of the National Guard have volunteered only on condi tion that they may serve as now organ ized. The second consideration which in fluenced the department in postponing the certification of the call until Wednesday is a desire to make sure that adequate arrangements can be completed by quartermasters and the commissary departments for feeding and transporting the number of men called for. This is no light task, as the volunteers must be taken by the government at a certain point in each state where they are to be col lected by the governors. . The Proclamation. The president's proclamation fol lows: "By the President of the United States A Proclamation: "Whereas, By act of congress, en titled an act to provide for the increas ing of the military establishment ot the United States in time of war, and for other purposes, approved April 22, 1898, the president was authorized, in order to raise a volunteer army, to is sue his proclamation calling for volun teers to serve in the army of the United States. "Now, therefore, I, William Mc Kinley, president of the United States, by virtue of the power vested in me by the constitution and by-laws, and deeming sufficient occasion to exist, have thought fit to call, and hererby do call, for volunteers to the aggregate number of 125,000 to carry into effect the purpose of said resolution, the same to be apportioned as far as prac ticable among the several states and territories and the District of Colum bia, according to population, and to serve for two years, unless sooner dis charged. Tho details of this order will be immediately communicated to the proper authorities through the war de partment. "In witness whereof, I have here unto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed. "Done at Washington, this 23d day of April, 1898, and of the independence of the United States the 122d. "WILLIAM M'KINLEY. "By the President, "JOHN SHERMAN, "Secretary of State." Telegrams have been coming from every sestion to Secretary Alger from governors and militia officers convey ing information as to the length of time, surprisingly short, in many cases, that would be required by them to gather their forces ready for muster. Points of Mobilization. The men, as fast as mustered in by regular army officers in the various states, will be brought to one of thiee great depots, viz., Washington, Rich mond or Atlanta, where they will be organized to meet the requirements of ordinary army tactics. The fact that Richmond is named as one of these points is taken in some quarters as an evidence that General Fitzhugh Lee is to receive a volunteer commission, either as one of the four major-generals or as one of the nine brigadier-generals provided for. It is believed to have been largely at his instance that Richmond was selected as one of the points of concentration. In anticipation of the president's call, vast numbers of letters and tele grams have begun to flow in on Secre tary Alger, offering service as volun teers in the army. So numerous are those communications that the secre tary has asked the press to notify the people that such communications should be directed to the governors of states and territories. A Capture by the Ericsson. On Board Flgship New York, off Havana, April 26. The torpedo boat Ericsson captured a Spanish fishing boat last night under the guns of Mor ro castle. The Helena's Prise. Key West, April 26. The gunboat Helena captured the Spanish steamer Miquel Joves early this morning. The Jove's cargo is composed of cotton and stave;. The prize is estimated to value' $400,000, the cargo alone being worth $150,000. She belonged to the Fermi lo line, of Barcelona. FIRED ON THE FLEET. Morro Castle Opened on the North At lantic Squadron. On Board the Flagship New York, off Havana, April 26. During the early morning, the Morro castle bat teries again opened fire on the fleet, but without the slightest effect. There have been no casualties among our forces up to this hour, and not a single shot has been fired against the batteries. At 3 o'clock this morning the De troit mdae a rich haul, capturing the Spanish merchant steamer Catalina, bound for Cadiz. She carried a large quantity of provisions, which she in tended to land in Havana. Ensign Christy, from the Detroit, and four marines and six bluejackets were put on board of her and she steamed off for Key West. The Wilmington and Porter, when dawn broke, were both seen towing prizes in the shape of small schooners. The Wilmington's capture was laden with charcoal, and the Porter's, the Sophia, had rum and sugar aboard. They were both towed to Key West. The torpedo-boat Porter, commanded by Lieutenant Fiemont, is doing great work, and if she keeps on at this rate, her crew will have no end pf prize money to divide. About 9 o'clock this morning, the New York proceeded several miles closer inshore. Not a breath of wind stirred; the sea and the heat was ter rible. An Effective Blockade. On Board the Flagship New York, off Havana, April 25. Morro castle opened fire on the fighting squadron of the United States, at 11 o'clock last night. About 10 shots were sent in the direction of our ships. Not one of them took effect, and no shots were fired in return. The Spaniards evidently had seen the lights of the New York while the latter was signaling to a ship of the squadron. The fire was reported by the officer of the deck. Ensign J. R. Edito, to Cap tain Chadwick, who was asleep at the time. The young officer asked the cap tain in command whether the New York had not better discontinue sig aling. "No," muttered Captain Chadwick, with the utmost coolness. "There is no necessity for stopping the signals. Go ahead." A little later, Captain Chadwick was on the forward bridge, whence he watched the tongues of flame shoot out from Morro castle. He glanced in the direction of the Spanish fortifications for a few seconds, and then turned his back on them in silent contempt, and went back to his bed, perfectly certain the Spaniards could do no damage at five miles, which was then the approxi mate distance of the flagship from Morro castle. Another officer said: "The Spaniards probably became nervous and decided they could not sleep without some fireworks. They can't hit anything anyway." There was no excitement on board the flagship during Morro castle's futile attempt at gunnery. The discipline was really splendid. In fact, at this hour many people on board the flagship do not know that Spain's first guns of war have been fired, and that the New York was their target. Morro castle light, which was burn ing brightly all tho evening, was put out at midnight. The Spaniards evi dently realized, though rather late, that the sole use of Morro lights at that time had been to serve as a guide for the fleet of the United States. No Fears for the Oregon. Washington, April 26. The most important development today in regard to the movements of the various ships of the navy was an official statement issued by Secretary Long to the effect that the department is fully aware of the whereabouts of the battle-ship Oregon and the gunboat Marietta, but for prudent reasons positively declines to say where the vessels are, whether or not they have been ordered to return to San Francisco, or, in fact, to make any statement respecting them, further than that it has no apprehension for their safety. It is known that the department has taken steps to havo the commander of the Oregon met by friends and warned of the outbreak of hostilities ami of the presence of a Spanish torpedo gunboat at Buenos Ayres in the path of the wahsrip on her way to the North At lantic squadron. Three More Prizes. New York, April 26. A dispatch to the Press from Key West says: The gunboat Wilmington captured the Spanish schooner Candiga.with a deck load of charcoal for Havana, where it is extremely valuable for fuel. At this writing, the Cushing is bearing down on a schooner to the southeast. The breeze is slow and while she has on all sail, the Cushing will overhaul her shortly. She has the start, but the Cushing has the steam. The tor pedo boat Porter today captured the Spanish schooner Antonio, laden with sugar for Havana. The Antonio was sent to Key West with a prize crew of four men, under Cadet Dubers. Key West, April 26. The govern ment has taken control and all press matter will be handled subject to the decision of the censor. Telegraphic communication with Havana has been abandoned. They Call It Piracy. Madrid April 26. The capture of the Spanish steamer Buena Ventura by a United States gunboat off Key West has aroused great indignation, the Spaniards claiming that hostilities are not yet supposed to have begun. The citizens of the city characterize the seizure as an act of piracy, being in defiance of international law, and "characteristic of the Vaukees. " The Catalina Captured. Key West, April 26. Ensign Chris ty, witb a crew of 16 men from the cruiser Detroit and four from the flag ship, brought into port this morning the captured Spanish steamer Cata lina, Captain Fano, 3,491 tons, which left Cadiz March 7, and was bound from New Orleans for Barcelona via Havana, for which latter port she was making when taken. The Catalina was captured about 4 o'clock Sunday morning, 12 miles from Havana. She is eairying a cargo of 6,000 bundles oi staves. fill Hill I Passed Congress With out Dissenting Vote. THE PRESIDENT REQUESTED IT The Measure Went Through Without a Dissenting Vote Naval Appropria Kill Passed Secretary Sherman Re signs Judge Day Appointed. Washington, April 27. A formal declaration that war exists between the United States and Spain passed both branches of congress today. The dec laration was made in accordance with the recommendation of the president, engrafted in a message sent to congress this morning. The measure was first adopted by the house, and later agreed to by the senate. The senate passed the naval appro priation bill, carrying large amounts of money for the improvement of our sea-fighting arm of the federal service. The Hull army reorganization bill was passed by the senate, and now goes to conference; Secretary Sherman re signed, as chief of the state depart ment, to be succeeded by Assistant Sec retary Day, and the latter by John B. Moore, of New York, an acknowledged authority on international law, and the war department called on the several states for their quota to the volunteer army of the United States. These make up the important events of the day. It was not announced when Secre tary Sherman's resignation would take effect, the secretary abandoned his original idea of leaving at once, and it is thought he will remain until Judge Day qualifies as his successor. The selection of Judge Moore, who iy now professor of law at Columbia university, New York, to succeed the latter, was warmly welcomed by all of the state department employes. A prize commissioner was appointed this afternoon in the person of Com mander John A. Wynne, a retired naval officer. He will be stationed at Key West, where he now resides, and it will be his duty in conjunction with two other members, to be selected as a part of the commission, to make appraise ments of the value of prizes and to assist the prize courts in their work. A few telegrams came from Key West, announcing the arrival there of the prizes whose capture has been re ported through the press. Nothing could be obtained as to the intentions of Commodore Schley in so hastily rushing away the flyers Columbia and Minneapolis from Hampton Roads, but it is believed that their purpose is to shelter the Paris or some of the liners from attack of some Spanisli cruisers. There was talk of establishing a supply depot in the Philippines to meet the conditions in Asiatic waters. Our fleet there now has no home, and under neutrality laws, the stay of the ships at any port is limited to a few hours. This is unpleasant, besides involving the expenditure of a great deal of coal, so that it may become necessary for Commodore Dewey to seize a port in the Philippines and fortify it as a base of supplies. The department today purchased two tugs, the Hortense, of New Orleans, and the Mary Willick, of Galveston. The feature of interest at the war department was the dispatch to the governors of the states and territories, of circulars, notifying them how many men they would be expected to furnish as volunteers, how they should be ap portioned among the three arms of tho service, and where they should rendez- ! vous as a United States army. A good j many details to be arranged in order to i carry out the project for the mobiliza tion ot the volunteers, but these are rapidly being disposed of. The rendezvous for the troops to be mustered in the service of the volun teer army in the Pacific states and ter ritories has been designated by Secre tary Alger as follow California San Francisco. Colorado Denver. Idaho Boise. Montana Helena. Oregon Portland. Utah Ogden. Wyoming Cheyenne. THE BLOCKADE PERFECT. Vigorous Chasing of Every Moving Light That Appears, On Board the Flagship New York, off Havana, April 27. The early morning hours today were taken up by a vigorous chasing of moving lights. The only vessels spoken were the Brit ish schooner Iolantht-, of Windsor, N. S. She was allowed to proceed. She was just out of Matanzas. No shots have been fired since yesterday morn ing on either side. The Dolphin and the yacht Eagle arrived from Key West this morning. The Dolphin carried the officers and prize crews who had been placed on the steamer Pedro and the Echooner Antonio. All were glad to get back, although they said they had had no trouble with their prizes. The torpedo-boat Porter made a dar ing trip into the shore under cover ol darkness last night, and Lieutenant Fremont, her commander, landed with a small party and obtained valuable information. The blockade continues under beautiful weather conditions. Washington, April 27. Secretary Long this afternoon said Captain Samp eon had been appointed acting rear admiral. It is supposed he will be named later as rear admiral. Searching Neutral Vassela. Madrid, April 27. The Official Gazette today publishes the instructions of the Spanish government respecting the right to search neutral vessels. In brief, they set forth that warships may detain merchantmen in any non-neutral waters for the purpose of verifying the authenticity of the flag and for examin ing the cargo, if the vessel is bound for a hostile port. The British board of trade has decid ed to establish a museum of commer cial samples. LATER NEWS. The state department sent notice to all foreign nations of congress having declared war, and that war has existed since April 21. Reponses have already begun to flow in. A neutrality procla mation was issued by the British gov ernment. Amciig the first to take cognizance of the existence of a state of war were the British colonies. This in a measure supports the contention of this government that war actually ex isted before the declaration by congress. The conference report on the army reorganization bill was passed by both houses of congress and signed by the president. No progress was made on other pending war measures. Secretary Day's nomination was sent to and confirmed by the senate. The cabinet has decided that no Spanish prize ship shall be released previous to the passing upon of their respective cases by the courts. A Hong Kong dispatch says the Phil ippine islands insurgents are massing around Manila, and a massacre of the Spanish is feared. The Mangrove took in the big steam er Panama, of the Ceballos line, a Spanish auxiliary cruiser, off the Cuban coast, and brought her prize to Key West. The Panama is a steamer of 2,800 tons, and carried a valuable cargo, including stores for the Spanish army in Cuba. She sailed from New York April 20. The capture of so large a steamer by so small a vessel as the Mangrove is regarded as a notable achievement, and there was unusual rejoicing at Key W est over the capture. A rebellion is again imminent in Spain. Towns are in the hands of riot ers at frequent intervals daily. The authorities are totally unable to con trol tho mob. All revolutionary parties are active and the stability of the pres ent monarchy is threatened. A royal decree proclaiming neutral ity has been issued by the government of Great Britain and printed in the London Gazette. This was followed by the issuance of proclamations of similar import by a majority of the British colonies in all parts of the world. As a result of the issuance of this decree, the international laws re specting vessels sailing under the flags of belligerent powers will be strictly enforced in the ports of the British empire. Two more Spanish prizes have been captured by the gunboat Newport. The Newport brought in to Key West the Spanish sloop Paquette and the Spanish schooner Tireno, Cuban coast ing vessels, captured off Havana. . Cuban advices are to the effect that the insurgents are forcing the fighting. The Spanish, fearing assault by land and sea, are hurrying their troops into the cities. Insurgents have appeared in force within 30 miles of Havana. There was a raid by them just before Bocade Jaruco early in the morning, and the combatants must rJc .bad a full view of the blockading squadron. The house committee on naval affairs has decided to report a disagreement with the senate amendments to the naval bill, and ask for a conference. i?outelle, Hillborn and Cumminng will be the house conferees. It has been announced by tho Rich ard Silk Company, of Chicago, that if any of their employes desire to go to war, his salary will be continued dur ing his absence, iiis position will be re tained until his return, and if he is killed $2,500 wil' be giv-en by the firm to his family. There was a meeting on Trafalgar Square, London, Sunday afternoon to protest against Spanish barbarities in Cuba and the Philippines. "Tom'' Mann, Louise Michael and Lathrop Tathington, an American, who was greeted with cries of "Good old Yan kee," made speeches. Resolutions fa voring free Cuba were adopted amid cheers. CONTRABAND OF WAR. Character of Merchandise That Is Lia ble to Seizure. Inasmuch as there exists a great amount of misapprehension, not only among foreign countries, but also among American shippers, as to the character of merchandise that is con traband and liable to seizure during tne progress of war, the following un official but authentic statement has been obtained from a high official of the government: In determining, according to the law of nations, whether merchandise is contraband of war, it is classified: 1 Absolute contraband. 2 Occasional or conditional contra band. 3 Goods not contraband. The first class includes all goods of an essentially warlike character. The second class includes provisions, naval stores, coal, horses, certain kinds of machinery, certain forms of steel, iron, etc., that are destined for the use of the enemy. They are contraband or not, according to occasion and condi tions as to their character, shipment and destined use. Every such caes de pends upon its own facts. The third class includes articles not suited to warlike use, such as church service and musical instruments, house hold waies and goods of such like, and including many that are purely of a mercantile character. A New York World dispatch from Madrid says that a revolution is im minent there. The correspondent says no one can tell what will be the result of her rapidly increasing domestic troubles the cabinet crisis; the dis sentions among her statesmen and warriors; the intrigues of the Carlists, the plotting of Weyler and Romero Robledo, and the popular agitation. United States warships made demon strations against Cardenas and Mariel on the 20th. A London paper is in receipt of ad vices from its Paris correspondent to the effect that France is inclined to go to Spain's aid. He says: "The Amer ican methods of dealing with Spain have excited unanimous indignation. France will not let Spain go down without a sustaining hand." The same paper professes to have informa tion that Chile is likely to attack San Francisco, working in conjunction with Spain attacking the Eastern coast. In Berlin and Lei psic cyclometers an attached to cabs, so that the occupant may know his legal fare.