[87] “The policy which you will pursue in the United States is the following one:—­

“Make them understand that whatever may be their intention towards us, it is not possible for them to overrule the sentiments of the people represented by the government, and they must first recognize it if we are to come to an agreement.  Still do not accept any contracts or give any promises respecting protection or annexation, because we will see first if we can obtain independence.  This is what we shall endeavour to secure; meanwhile, if it should be possible to do so, still give them to understand in a way that you are unable to bind yourself but that once we are independent, we will be able to make arrangements with them.”—­P.I.R., Books C-1.

[88] P.I.R., 5. 7.

[89] In a letter written on that date to Agoncillo he says:—­

“Notwithstanding, I enclose you the credentials as requested; thereby you will see that in addition to your representing us at Washington, you may assist the commission they have formed for the purpose of determining the future condition of the Philippines.

“But you must act in such manner that they may not be able to say that we have accepted the said commission, because it is my wish to protect [protest?  D. C. W.] at all times against their being charged with determining our destiny.  You must bear in mind that the policy of the government is to obtain absolute independence, and if perchance we should know by the course of events that such cannot be the case, we will then think of protection or annexation.”—­P.I.R., Books C-1.

[90] On August 30, 1898, Aguinaldo wrote Agoncillo:—­

“It is said that General Merritt is going away to take part in the work of the Commission.  On this account it is important that you proceed as quickly as possible to America, in order to know what takes place.  If perchance we should go back to Spanish control, ask them to help us as the French helped them during their own revolution and ask also the terms.”—­P.I.R., Books C—­1.

[91] Taylor, 18 AJ.

[92] See p. 61.

[93] Ibid.

[94] Some time during August, 1898, Sandico wrote a letter to Aguinaldo of which the postscript reads as follows:—­

“P.S.—­If you think of appointing me as Delegate to Manila, please send me my credentials.  There are also annexationists here [i.e., in Manila.—­D.  C. W.].”—­P.I.R., 416. 3.

[95] Now Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippine Islands.  He is a man of excellent character, high attainments and great ability.  He held important legal positions under the Spanish government.  In October, 1898, he was appointed Secretary of Foreign Relations of the “Philippine Republic,” but never served as such officer.  He was given the degree of Doctor of Law by Yale University in 1904.

[96] Dr. T. H. Pardo de Tavera, one of the most brilliant living Filipinos.  He had spent many years in Paris, was a talented physician, and under American rule served for more than seven years as a member of the Philippine Commission.