RECOGNITION OF CUBAN BELLIGERENCY. 419

That this language accurately describes the present situation we must believe from all trustworthy evidence as to the nature of the struggle that has reached us. It is our evident duty to observe strict neutrality, and to take no step which would give the insur- gents an international status, and thus hold out to them delusive and fatal hopes. It is reassuring to see that in his annual Mes- sage the President has acted with care and moderation, and in accordance with the requirements of law. Joseph H, Beale, Jr. 55