THE WAR.

New Zealand Times, Volume LXVIII, Issue 3504, 5 August 1898, Page 2

THE WAR.

FLOATING OP THE STRANDED CRUISER. By Telegraph.—Press Association.— Copyright, Washington, August 3. The American cruiser Columbia, which went ashore at Ponce, on the coast of Puerto Rico, has been re-floated. Widespread desertion of Spanish soldiers to the American army is taking place. THE SITUATION AT MANILA. Washington, August 3. Reports from Manila state that Aguinaldo has threatened to massacre Bishop Nozaleda and others of the clergy who are among the refugees at Cavite. As it is feared that serious trouble will arise with the insurgents. Admiral Dewey and General Merritt have been ordered to suppress anything in the nature of a riot. THE PEACE NEGOTIATIONS. Received August 1, midnight. Washington, August 3. M. Gambon, French Ambassador at Washington, acting as a fully accredited commissioner and envoy on behalf of Spain, has had an hour’s interview with President McKinley. It is supposed that he handed Spain’s reply to the peace negotiations. Possibly, however, he only asked for elucidation as to the details. No official statement has been made, and the impression prevails that Spain has hot accepted the terms unreservedly. It is understood that President McKinley is disposed to exercise patience, but it he sees a disposition to “shilly-shally ” he will cancel the oiler, TOWN CAPTURED BY THE CUBAN REBELS. Washington, August 4. General Garcia reports that he has captured Mayan and 500 Spaniards.