The deplorable strife in Cuba continues without any marked change
in the relative advantages of the contending forces. The insurrection
continues, but Spain has gained no superiority. Six years of strife give
to the insurrection a significance which can not be denied. Its duration
and the tenacity of its adherence, together with the absence of
manifested power of suppression on the part of Spain, can not be
controverted, and may make some positive steps on the part of other
powers a matter of self-necessity. I had confidently hoped at this
time to be able to announce the arrangement of some of the important
questions between this Government and that of Spain, but the
negotiations have been protracted. The unhappy intestine dissensions of
Spain command our profound sympathy, and must be accepted as perhaps
a cause of some delay. An early settlement, in part at least, of the
questions between the Governments is hoped. In the meantime, awaiting
the results of immediately pending negotiations, I defer a further and
fuller communication on the subject of the relations of this country
and Spain.
I have again to call the attention of Congress to the unsatisfactory
condition of the existing laws with reference to expatriation and the
election of nationality.
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