AMERICA AND SPAIN.

Press, Volume LV, Issue 10130, 1 September 1898, Page 5

AMERICA AND SPAIN.

THE SPANISH COMMISSIONERS. Uoxited Press Association —By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. MADRID, August 30. The commissioners selected to represent Spain at the Peace Conference, to be held at Paris, include Senor Leon Castillo, the Ambassador in Paris, the Duke Najera, and Senors Urrutia, Marcoartu, and Aber_uzu. (Per Martfosa, at Atjcklaxd.) SAN FRANCISCO, August 11. AQUINALDO AND HIS FOLLOWERS. Aquinaldo, the leader of the Insurgent forces, at one time showed a disposition to disregard the authority of the United States officials, but was quickly brought to his senses when General Merritt, appointed to the command of the new military station, arrived with his forces. Aquinaldo appears to be a man of considerable intelligence, and judicious advisers seem to have had little difficulty in convincing him of the futility of attempting to maintain government as an independent nation, even it there were a possibility of organising such a government by the courtesy and with the aid of the Americans. Two propositions made by the Insurgent chief indicate an easy' .solution of the problem of the insurgents. First, Aquinaldo asked of General Merritt that the rebel troops should be permitted to march through the streets of Manila when the city surrenders. This will be permitted, as it will be a harmless gratification of the vanity of the natives, and at the same time it will be easier with the native troops in line to prevent their committing excesses. Second, Aquinaldo suggests the formation of Philippine regiments with American officers. This is consideted a highly important matter, possibly a key to the whole situation on the island. The insurgents are particularly bitter towards the Spanish priests of the island—so much so, indeed, that Pope Leo recently warned the Washington officials that the rebels were plotting to murder all the priests, and begged their protection. Orders were accordingly at once sent to General Merritt and Admiral Dewey, who are entirely able to control the natives so far without any threat of force.