Chapter 23, The Lieutenant Colonel Summary and Analysis

After news arrives that Spanish occupation in Cuba destroys the presses, the Maine sails for the island. Roosevelt fights battles personally and professionally. At home, Edith fights typhoid and Roosevelt responds with his usual remedy of courage and exercise. He also battles financial problems, due to his taxes, which prove higher than he hoped after declaring himself a resident at Oyster Bay. In Washington, he urges action in Cuba. Surprisingly, Secretary Long seconds Roosevelt's warnings and sends the Maine directly to Havana.

The President issues warnings to the Spanish minister in Washington, who assures McKinley of his country's cooperation. However, the minster writes a scathing letter about McKinley to the rulers in Spain. The letter, intercepted by the press, makes headlines and the minister leaves in disgrace. On February 15, the Maine sinks in Havana harbor...