February 5th, Aguinaldo issued a second proclamation in which he said that the outbreak of hostilities was “unjustly and unexpectedly provoked by the Americans.”  He also spoke of “the constant outrages and taunts which have been causing misery to the Manilans,” and referred to the “useless conferences” and contempt shown for the Filipino government as proving a “premeditated transgression of justice and liberty.”  He called on his people to “sacrifice all upon the altar of honor and national integrity,” and insisted that he tried to avoid as far as possible an armed conflict.  He claimed that all his efforts “were useless before the unmeasured pride of the Americans,” whom he charged as having treated him as a rebel “because I defended the interests of my country and would not become the instrument of their dastardly intentions.”  He concluded by saying: 

“Be not discouraged.  Our independence was watered freely by the blood of martyrs, and more will be shed in the future to strengthen it.  Remember that efforts are not to be wasted that ends may be gained.  It is indispensable to adjust our actions to the rules of law and right and to learn to triumph over our enemies.  We have fought our ancient oppressors without arms, and we now trust to God to defend us against the foreign foe.”

The Official Battle Bulletins.

The messages following were received in the order given.

“Manila, February 5.—­Adjutant-General, Washington:  Have established our permanent lines well out and have driven off the insurgents.  The troops have conducted themselves with great heroism.  The country about Manila is peaceful, and the city is perfectly quiet.  List of casualties to-morrow. Otis.”

“Manila, February 5.—­To the Adjutant-General:  Insurgents in large force opened attack on our outer lines at 8:45 p. m. last evening; renewed attack several times during night; at 4 o’clock this morning entire line engaged; all attacks repulsed; at daybreak advanced against insurgents, and have driven them beyond the lines they formerly occupied, capturing several villages and their defense works; insurgent loss in dead and wounded large; our own casualties thus far estimated at 175, few fatal.  Troops enthusiastic and acting fearlessly.  Navy did splendid execution on flanks of enemy; city held in check, and absolute quiet prevails; insurgents have secured a good many Mauser rifles, a few field pieces and quick-firing guns, with ammunition, during last month. Otis.”

“Manila, February 5.—­To Adjutant-General:  Situation most satisfactory.  No apprehension need be felt.  Perfect quiet prevails in city and vicinity.  List of casualties being prepared, and will be forwarded as soon as possible.  Troops in excellent health and spirits. Otis.”

“Manila, February 7.—­Adjutant-General, Washington:  The insurgent army concentrated around Manila from Luzon provinces, numbered over 20,000, possessing several quick-firing and Krupp field guns.  Good portion of enemy armed with Mausers, latest pattern.  Two Krupp and great many rifles captured.  Insurgents fired great quantity of ammunition.  Quite a number of Spanish soldiers in insurgent service who served artillery.