FLORENCE YESTERYEARS: 104 years ago
August 12, 1898
According to advice received from Havana, Captain General Blanco appreciates the fact that he must withdraw himself and his forces from the island of Cuba. He had previously expressed determination to hold out in Havana to the death. In a recent proclamation, he made known to the Spanish people of Cuba that Spain had been forced to sue for peace and that there would be no more war.
The reply of the Spanish government to the peace conditions laid down by the United States was received by the French ambassador on Aug. 9. There is complete reticence in all quarters as to the text of the reply, but there is reason to believe it is not an unqualified acceptance of the American terms. The administration has not yet given serious consideration to the personnel of the peace commission, but it is sure that no one will be appointed that is not in accordance with the President's views on the Philippines. Mr. McKinley favors keeping at least Manila Harbor and the bay and sufficient territory around it for its support and protection, if not the whole of Luzon Island.
