The quotations already given from Insurgent records show plainly that the principal thing for which the Filipinos were waiting was the ousting of Spain from the Philippines by the United States; those which follow show that war was by no means inevitable as a result of a a decision at Paris adverse to Filipino hopes, for the question of whether a United States protectorate, or even annexation to the United States, might be considered, was left open to a very late date. [79]

It has been claimed not only that the Insurgents whipped the Spaniards without our assistance, but whipped them so thoroughly that Spanish sovereignty had practically disappeared from the islands at the time Manila surrendered.  It has further been alleged that “decrepit” Spain “could not possibly have sent any reinforcements to the Philippines.  Besides, the Filipinos would have ‘eaten them up.’” [80]

But the Filipinos had fought Spain before and were by no means sanguine.  Their more intelligent and reasonable men clearly foresaw that they could not win unaided.  Senor Antonio Regidor was at the time residing in London.  He was a Filipino of unusual intelligence and exceptionally good education.  He took a keen interest in the situation, and on July 28, 1898, telegraphed Agoncillo as follows:—­

“In the name of the Filipinos, you should immediately send a telegraphic message to MacKinley, requesting him not to abandon the islands, after having fought as brothers for a common cause.  Pledge him our unconditional adhesion, especially of well-to-do people.  To return to Spain, in whatever form, would mean annihilation, perpetual anarchy.  Filipinos en masse should visit the consuls at Hongkong, Singapore.  London commerce support it.  Influence Aguinaldo to accept American flag, flying it everywhere, thus obliging them to remain.” [81]

This leaves no room for doubt as to Regidor’s views, but Agoncillo did not share them.  He replied on July 29:—­

“Provisional government’s aspiration is independence.  Make this campaign.” [82]

Regidor was not to be persuaded.  On July 30 he replied as follows, addressing his communication to Basa: 

“America vacillating as to remaining fears conflicts later with natives international question other difficulties necessary to encourage her all of you submit united unconditionally raising American flag great demonstrations necessary to influence outside opinion show islands resolved united America high circles advise in view present circumstances only feasible programme is protectorate.” [83]

Obviously, Agoncillo was somewhat impressed by this cablegram, for on August 1 in a letter to Aguinaldo he made the following statements and inquiries:—­