Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Annual Message of the President Transmitted to Congress December 5, 1898

Mr. Sewall to Mr. Sherman.

Legation of the United States,
Honolulu, H. I., March 2, 1898.

No. 120.]

Sir: I have the honor to report that the news of the disaster to the U. S. S. Maine has caused a widespread feeling of sympathy and grief throughout this community and group.

Having no instructions, upon receipt of the news from Admiral Miller I went to his residence, when he read me his telegram from Secretary Long.

At the admiral’s suggestion I notified the Hawaiian Government that the colors would be placed at half mast on the ships of his squadron until further notice.

On the same day the Hawaiian minister of foreign affairs addressed me a note expressive of sorrow (inclosed).

The commissioners of Portugal and France, and residents generally, verbally extended their sympathy.

On the 26th instant the Hawaiian Legislature adopted a resolution of sympathy, the flag was directed to be placed at half mast over the senate chamber, and as a token of its sympathy the house adjourned.

I have, etc.,

Harold M. Sewall.

[Inclosure in No. 120.]

Mr. Cooper to Mr. Sewall.

Department of Foreign Affairs,
Honolulu, H. I., February 25, 1898.

Sir: I received with profound sorrow the information conveyed in your letter of the 25th instant of the calamity to the United States ship Maine, and note that Admiral Miller has directed that the colors of his squadron be placed at half mast until further notice.

In token of the sympathy of this Government for the Government of the United States in the loss of its gallant officers and men, the garrison flag will be placed at half staff during to-morrow the 26th instant.

I have, etc.,

Henry E. Cooper,
Minister of Foreign Affairs.