In his “Resena Veridica” written later for political purposes, Aguinaldo has definitely claimed that Dewey promised him that the United States would recognize the independence of the Filipino people.  I will let him tell his own story, confronting his statements with those of the admiral.

“May 19, 1898.

“The McCulloch started at eleven o’clock on the morning of the 17th of May for the Philippines; we anchored, between twelve and one o’clock on the afternoon of the 19th, in the waters of Cavite, and immediately the launch of the Admiral—­with his aid and private secretary—­came to convey me to the Olympia, where I was received, with my aid, Sr.  Leyva, with the honors of a general, by a section of marine guards.” [43]

Relative to this matter, Admiral Dewey has testified:  [44]

“The Chairman.  You, of course, never saluted the flag?

Admiral Dewey.  Certainly not; and I do not think I ever called Aguinaldo anything but Don Emilio; I don’t think I ever called him ‘General.’

The Chairman.  And when he came on board ship was he received with any special honors at the side?

Admiral Dewey.  Never.”

The “Resena Veridica” continues:—­

“The Admiral received me in a salon, and after greetings of courtesy I asked him ’if all the telegrams relative to myself which he had addressed to the Consul at Singapore, Mr. Pratt, were true.’  He replied in the affirmative, and added, ’that the United States had come to the Philippines to protect its natives and free them from the yoke of Spain.’

“He said, moreover, that ’America was rich in territory and money, and needed no colonies,’ concluding by assuring me, ’to have no doubt whatever about the recognition of Philippine independence by the United States.’  Thereupon he asked me if I could get the people to arise against the Spaniards and carry on a rapid campaign.” [45]

As we have seen, Dewey sent only one telegram to Pratt about Aguinaldo.  It merely directed that the latter be sent.

“I then expressed to him my profound acknowledgement for the generous help which the United States was giving the Filipino people, as well as my admiration for the magnificence and goodness of the American people.  I also stated to him that ’before leaving Hongkong, the Filipino Colony had held a meeting, at which was discussed and considered the possibility that—­after defeating the Spaniards—­the Filipinos might have a war with the Americans, if they should refuse to recognize our independence, who were sure to defeat us because they should find us tired out, poor in ammunitions and worn out in the war against the Spaniards,’ requesting that he pardon my frankness.