I also have to announce to you that the Spanish fleet, with the exception of one vessel, was destroyed, and this one is being so vigorously pursued that it will be impossible for it to escape.  General Pando is opposed by forces sufficient to hold him in check.

In view of the above, I would suggest that, to save needless effusion of blood and the distress of many people, you may reconsider your determination of yesterday.  Your men have certainly shown the gallantry which was expected of them.

     I am, sir, with great respect,

     Your obedient servant,

     WILLIAM R. SHAFTER,
     Major-General, Commanding United States Forces.

     Headquarters Fifth Army Corps,
     Camp near San Juan River, Cuba, July 4, 1898.

     To the Commanding General, Spanish Forces, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba.

Sir:—­The fortune of war has thrown into my hands quite a number of officers and private soldiers, whom I am now holding as prisoners of war, and I have the honor to propose to you that a cartel of exchange be arranged to-day, by which the prisoners taken by the forces of Spain from on board the Merrimac, and any officers and men of the army who may have fallen into our hands within the past few days, may be returned to their respective governments on the terms usual in such cases, of rank for rank.  Trusting that this will meet with your favorable consideration, I remain,

     Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

     WILLIAM R. SHAFTER,
     Major-General, Commanding United States Forces.

     Headquarters Fifth Army Corps,
     Camp near San Juan River, Cuba, July 4, 1898.

     To the Commanding Officer, Spanish Forces, Santiago.

Sir:—­It will give me great pleasure to return to the city of Santiago at an early hour to-morrow morning all the wounded Spanish officers now at El Caney who are able to be carried and who will give their parole not to serve against the United States until regularly exchanged.  I make this proposition, as I am not so situated as to give these officers the care and attention that they can receive at the hands of their military associates and from their own surgeons; though I shall, of course, give them every kind treatment that it is possible to do under such adverse circumstances.  Trusting that this will meet with your approbation, and that you will permit me to return to you these persons, I am,

     Your very obedient servant,

     WILLIAM R. SHAFTER,
     Major-General, Commanding United States Forces.

     Army of the Island of Cuba,
     Fifth Corps, General Staff.

     To His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief of the American Forces.