In behalf of these people, I earnestly ask the Department that some prompt measures be taken to further relieve them. They are absolutely helpless—no work, shut up in cities and towns like rats in a trap to starve. We have fifteen or eighteen families (American reconcentrados) who own property in the country, and were they allowed to go to their homes, could make a good living. All these have begged and pleaded with authorities (under Blanco's order) to go, and in every case refused.
Since the 24th of May, 1897, to December 26, 1897, seven months, we have given food and medicines and relief to an average of 305 persons, American citizens, at a cost of $8,175.48 Spanish gold. This amount received from Havana on account of Cuban relief fund to date. We require a little over $800 (bills not rendered) to settle last two weeks' ration bills and three weeks' medicine.
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I am, etc.,
United States Consul.
[Inclosure in No 99.]
CUBAN DESTITUTION.
Circular letter dated January 8, 1898, from Department of State, received yesterday.
This intimates that help is to be extended by the United States to the starving people in Cuba. The news of this relief has been known for the past two weeks and has extended all over the province. This consulate has been overwhelmed with people of all classes asking to be remembered when this relief comes.
I submit a few facts illustrating the suffering in this province alone. There are in Matanzas Province over 90,000 people who are in actual starving condition and require food, clothing, and medicines.
In addition to above, there are thousands of families (of the better classes, formerly well to do) who to-day are living on one meal a day, and that very scant. They have sold or pawned furniture, jewelry, clothing, etc., to eke out an existence until all is gone, or nearly so. Too proud to beg, they suffer in silence, and many die of starvation. The daughter of a former governor of this province was seen begging on the streets (incognito) of this city. Many of these people call on me privately at my residence asking and praying for God's sake to be remembered when this relief comes from the United States. One has to be here, know and mingle with these people, to fully realize the terrible destitution and misery existing in Cuba. It is to be hoped that this relief from the United States will come quickly, for hundreds are dying daily in this province of starvation. Conditions are dreadful, and no relief afforded by Spanish authorities.
I would advise that food and supplies for this province be sent direct to Matanzas, thus avoiding the railroad freight, drayage, etc. Supplies can be landed direct to warehouses (by lighters), which have been offered free of charge. The figures and facts I have stated indicate the large quantities of food and supplies required to give even temporary relief; also some cash will be required to handle and distribute supplies.
I am, etc.,
United States Consul.
Matanzas, Cuba, January 18, 1898.
Mr. Brice to Mr. Day.
No. 100.]
Matanzas, February 8, 1898.
Sir: I have the honor to inform the Department that U. S. cruiser Montgomery arrived in this port February 3, 1898, 10.34 a. m., leaving for Santiago de Cuba on February 5 at 6 p. m.
The usual courtesies were extended this consulate; also friendly visits
