To the Senate of the United States: EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, February 1, 1900. In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of January 24, 1900, I transmit herewith a copy of the report and all accompanying papers of Brig-Gen. John C. Bates, in relation to the negotiations of a treaty or agreement made by him with the Sultan of Sulu on the 20th day of August, 1899. I reply to the request and said resolution for further information that the payments of money provided for by the agreement will be made from the revenues of the Philippine Islands, unless Congress shall otherwise direct. Such payments are not for specific services but are a part consideration due to the Sulu tribe or nation under the agreement, and they have been stipulated for subject to the action of Congress in conformity with the practice of this Government from the earliest times in its agreements with the various Indian nations occupying and governing portions of the territory subject to the sovereignty of the United States. WILLIAM MCKINLEY. EXECUTIVE MANSION, February 2, 1900. To the Senate and House of Representatives: I transmit herewith, for the information of the Congress, a report of a commission appointed by me on January 20, 1899, to investigate affairs in the Philippine Islands. WILLIAM MCKINLEY. EXECUTIVE MANSION, February 21, 1900. To the House of Representatives: I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of State, in response to the resolution of the House of Representatives of February 19, 1900, calling upon him to inform the House of Representatives 1. If "Charles E. Macrum, as consul of the American Government, informed the State Department that his official mail had been opened and read by the British censor at Durban, and if so, what steps, if any, have been taken in relation thereto; and 2. What truth there is in the charge that a secret alliance exists between the Republic of the United States and the Empire of Great Britain." WILLIAM MCKINLEY. EXECUTIVE MANSION, March 5, 1900. To the Senate: In response to the following resolution of the Senate of January 17, 1900, requesting the President JAN 2 1918 |
