"I do not agree with those gentlemen who think we would wrest
the Philippine Islands from Spain and take charge of them
ourselves. I do not think we should acquire Cuba, as the
result of the existing war, to be annexed to the United States."
I reinforced this protest as well I could. But I went on
to state the reasons which had actuated me in favoring the
measure, and that my unconquerable repugnance to the acquisition
of territory to be held in dependency did not apply to that
case.
I cited the Teller resolution, and declared that it bound
the American people in honor, and that its principle applied
to all Spanish territory. I maintained that there was nothing
in the acquisition of Hawaii inconsistent with this doctrine.
I think so still.
I was bitterly reproached by some worthy persons, who I suppose
will always find matter for bitter reproach in everything
said or done on public matters. They charged me with speaking
one way and voting another. But I am content to leave the
case on its merits, and on the record.
The war went on. The feeling of the country was deeply excited.
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