Clara Barton Diaries and Journals Beb 26-July1, 1898 (2v.) DIARY-1898 NOTES ON CUBA Washington 1115 am.. Tuesday 26 Charlotte 10 pm " " Columbia 12.47 am Wed 27 [?]ockwell 9.15 am " " Tampa 5.20 pm " 27 The second little book that contains notes on Cuba - following the red Book in which the notes were commenced Addresses of persons on the way to and in Cuba 1898. . On page marked 00. names of correspondents, Reporters, etc. Mr and Mrs Plant of Plant System Tampa, Fla- Mr. & Mrs Frank Holder Yonkers N.Y. friends of Anna Preslin Phillips--Mrs Holder was daughter of Chas Davis who lived in the long house of Brothers Ste. in at Oxford. went to [schabl?] to me-- Mr. Holder is President of the great carpet works of Yonkers--was a Mass Soldier-- Mrs Scovill on boat from Tampa to Cuba Mrs.--daughter of Dr Bennet I [niu?ed??] at [Speleylranics?] At Key West - Mrs. Lake, wife of a jeweler in Key West, and who was a friend of Mamie by correspondence, and she visited me at Shalom is a native of New Hampshire - took us to ride in Key West. Havana Mrs. Fannie B Ward correspondent in Havana Consul General Fitzhugh Lee at Hotel Ingleterre consulate Mr Amoda G. Suarez, asst of Genl Lee, and of Mr Elwell Wm Hobb is purser of Steamer Vigillantee on board boat Mrs Pius lives at No 48 this St in Havana. 1898 Artemisa March 4 Mayor = Alcalda Enrique Zayas Secretary Jose Llorens Doctor Guillam Losans RR Station Agt Adolf Carreras Jafe Est Western Road 1898 February Saturday 26 Staff arrived Ware house S 27 cleaned hospital M 28 all went to call on consul. sent 2 loads hospital T March 1 opened hospital Genl Lee called W 2 Went to Matumas Procter, Col Egan, Hubbell T 3 Went Bank, street car Madam Bettina Bot hospital things March 4, Friday March F 4 to Artemissa. Proter, Col. Staid over night. station agents S 5 at Artemissa saw dis. home at noon. Sun. 6 Went to Sangue le Grand. Procter-- Col. Egan. Elwell. Staid at Sangue hotel over night Mon 7 left Sangue for Cienfugos- arrd 6 PM T 8 Left Cienfugos 7 a.m. for St. Domingo Motonzos & Havana Cottrell came W Procter left-- Klopsch came 9 sent letter C.H. Lily Maren came night Mr. & Mrs. G. H. Fisher for Dr. Hall 1898 [*T 10*] Klopsch came to see us - all the com. of the yacht. Huestas Mony Galagher - Smith all come to hospital - saw clinic beautiful work. [*F 11*] Went shopping. Table napkins for home & Hospital. Klopsch came in evening wants me to use all the mony I want to. Talks with Genl Lee [Te?n] has his talk with Lee Deeds to go to Matanzes M Duncan last legs [*S 12*] Went to address all Gusmann's goods- Letter from 'lover' Glad, pounded tender heart- Letter for Grand Duchess [*Sun. 13*] Mr. Klopsch Genl Lee called with the two Spanish ladies Elwell & C B went to call on the family that Madam a Shila lady 8 children M. Klopsch telephones that the Bowery Mission is burned & 11 lives lost, we decide to go to Ware house tomorrow. [*Mon 14*] Went to ware house at 6. get out goods - to H & towns Klopsch came at 9. W H [cl??] 11 a little softer than yesterday but raising cane. [*T 15 *] home - C.C. wrote to S.E B - CB thought to go N tomorrow but decided to wait - Call from Mrs. Geo Barnum [*over*] of Phil. Took advice from her and cards to Spanish authorities. Went to asylum. Photo--went to dine with Klopsch at Angleterre. Warehouse so nearly empty that Elwell is worried. [*W 16*] Called on Don Jose. went to call on Don Jose [congusto?] at Palace Dined with Mrs Geo Barnum Engleterre = Hubbell came home from Sagua & Matanzas. [*T 17*] At 10 AM went to call on Genl Blanco at 4 PM to call on Com. at Palace. - Bot crockery & lamps coming home - Invited to Suarez at night too tired to go. (Pacification) [*F 18*] Elwell & Egan at WH got out all in it M Klopsch came with M Redding of N.Y. Herald to get Egan to go on the new Committee. with Gusmann & Genl Lee for [campfire?]. [*Sat 19*] Feast day. no work. Elwell to town by telephone to meet Klopsch. I try to get up accts but can't get help together. get tired out for all day. Cottrell & Egan goes to town to find out about last pay has of time [*Sun 20*] Wrote letter for journal Tel from Steve M 21 Went with Dr Lesser & Bettemer to call on Archbishop Dr Hubbell left for Matanzas T 22 Decided to go home to take Egan & Cottrell Mr. Sexton came from Matanzas got ready for Archbishop at H. didn't come. decided to go to Wash., Egan & Cottrell, packed, drew checks saw Consul Lee W 23 Archbishop came. blessed the hospital. started for Wash. - boat Cottrell cant go - off - sea sick to Key West - arr'd 9+ night- better got up saw reporters Egan bot fruit. went on to port Tampa pleasant sail till next day 1898 Th 24 around Port Tampa at 2.30 - took some at Inn (the only hotel) wrote no charge - obliging host I. H. Murdick - left 4.45 for Tampa -short run, (55) arr Tampa Bay Hotel - met the Nichols - and a bevy of nice persons - reporter of World- Sun, etc. L [Landter???] M. Hathaway asst Mr. Brown - met Bishop of Harrisburg " Rector St. Pauls Church " Mr. Sexton there - dined by invitation of host - sent dispatches to Lesser Mrs. Reed Fanny David and R. Reeds for passes everywhere - Left for Charleston & on not via Jacksonville but by Way Cross March 1898 F. 25 good sleep in pullman car till morning. near "Swanee River". fruit for breakfast - tables for eating supper in train. S 26 Get home today Arr. 6 1/2 - Sen Proctor State Dept. Glen Echo sent trunks. Emma sick = Gray Sun 27. Steve came. Emma better Gray - Expect M Sheren & Wordwell - did not come Mrs Reed staid home. we waited till 4 for guests. then Steve & C. B. went to train - saw Sheren at Arlington, found app at Judge Days Monday 10 am came home late. Egan went for satchel March 28 Mon 28 Went into town. S.E.B Egan 8 1/2. Met Sheran in Park on way to State Dept. Interview with Judge Day. Decided I must return to Cuba. Committee given power to Operates on Island. Lunch Capital - Saw Mr Rosevelt Asst Navy - Saw M. Hanna - 2 hours had persuaded Steve to stay & attend to Main business. Sheran left Arlington at 4 PM Steve & C. B. had interview with M Hanna came home Settled up things for the field Steve left - 10 PM T. 29. Dr. Lesser & Bellina cam pained. Told of Klopsch Left at 4. for N.Y.. I write S E B to deal with Klopsch I send tel for check Ask S E B to pay Lesser 400. am to tired to work [We?] talk loud W 30 Egan Mrs Reed and CB go to city. First to Gibsons to order stationery - large quantity as rec. by S E B (Friday) To Loan & Trust, drew checks paid box for this year 12.00 per little box. To Brentano's, order cards (Friday) Bot maps and books To capitol - lunched No senate - to House saw Mr. Cummings & Smith - Kehoe - will do errands us Went to see Barker - Parks came home late got back letter Steve - March 1898 T 31 Mrs. Reed Egan self went again to city - [direct?] to capital - Saw Mr. Proctor Hanna - to state dept saw Mr. Adee - gave me an official paper to Navy Lieut Smart telephoned S E B to come [amien?] - he would come in morning. F April 1 Steve came at 8 M. Cob later & all went to State Dept. Mr. Sherin there - vexed Steve had audition with Judge Day. at 4 PM. Sherin left Steve brought me check 5000.00. Train delayed, could not get home till next morning. Sat April 2 1898 2 Bellina came to help me get off. Mosart came Dr. Egan took them out 9 AM. Mrs. Beckley still sews = I pack trunks. Hinton comes, Decide that Miss Jennings go News dubious. Hon Mc Mann of Va comes, wants his brother to go to Cuba Settle with Emma she is to have $12 a month owe 35. Bettina will go back, soon. I invite Dr Gardner & Nola Leave all the letters with Mrs Reed. Take checks 5000, leave all money orders & small checks with her. Mr. Sears comes evening goes out with us Pa Sta. 9 1/2 Mr Hitts at car will see Mr Alger in Red +. Sun April 2 3 on train from Washington to Charlotte & Jacksonville not quite well, cant write on this road. rough Mon 4 on train Tues 5 Tampa to Key West W 6 arr Havana Havana 7 April 7 [*Thurs.*] First day back. Trunks came up. Strong talk of war. After breakfast Dr Hubbell & Mr Elwell drive to palace to visit Congosto & Blanco most cordially received. "Thought when the paper said this morning that I was coming back that things couldn't be as bad." Had pleasant interview with both, could protect so far as their faces were concerned but couldn't guarantee the lawless element The Mob, the voters. Congosto would take me to his house & protect me with his life. They feel very sore Friday Havana Friday April 8 Cable from S.E.B. to meet supplies at [rainey] [p??ts] I reply, telling state of things & asking his advice. replies to "take no chances." We decide to leave tomorrow. the four nurses sew for me. do up my summer suit beautifully. I pay all my help This takes till night. pack and go to bed, tired, uncertain Saturday April 9 /98 Leave Havana [*Sat Apr. 9*] Up early - Trunks all packed To consulate - Dr. Bruner over sea - on board Hariette cross to Key West. [*S 10*] In Key West. up to Port Tampa All day in boat. [*M 11*] Arr Port Tampa morning Mrs Genl Lee accident Sent off letters - special train Up to Tampa. Hotel closed went to Arno [*12*] At Arno - trunk in fumigation. See Father Tyrrell PM Col Wright. not so much need. get list of Supplies needed. James called. Mrs. Stolley Tampa Miss Metz School [*Wd 13*] at Arno, Kindergarten - school Mr Wright - Removed to New home. Pic'nic - Com called. Hubbell goes to N.Y. advises to go to Wash tell him we are housekeeping Stormy day at Wash [*Thurs. 14*] At Lorens. Trunks came saw father Tirrell. letter from S.E.B. can [He??ded] [Cubans?] get words from Southwick at Key West - stuff there. Hubbell returns from N.Y. to Wash S.E.B wires to stay here, S.A.R. calls - first day housekeeping - fine - all trunks get circulars out Day goes govt. rates Tampa 15 Friday 15 Apr Another windy day Wrote Steve lovy letter Sent telegrams S.E.B. - 2 N. am. Review - wires again for few Words by 20th. Letters to Egan & C. B. From Lesser- overaction- Mrs. Towne & Mrs. Porch spent evening in parlor- chatted- Went to ride with Miss Mettz Of Kindergarten- Elwell left for Key West at night. [*Sat 16*] War News Fine day- Dr Egan gave skill to nurses. I commend scrap B Extra says troops coming- Tampa to be a center. Telegram from S.E.B. You come to Wash- leave staff got passes Florida Central & Columbia Dr Hyatt proposes Naval Red Cross. Up- Tampa & train I write up all letters. The Ky letter- Men do banking get passes- a busy afternoon at last I pack satchel in ten minutes- Make no change leave Cottrell $50- he had drawn check for 200 + leave 7.30. wait at station till nearly 9, having driven at a gallop to get there Took train. and berth. I Knew nothing more tell [*Sun 17*] Arrived Jacksonville a half hour too late- train gone 20 minutes. Would not go to hotel but had breakfast in the restaurant & had a table fixed in a corner and wrote & read all day till 4. When Mr Jacksonville a friend of Egans came and took us a long ride. On the way called at telegraph Station. We had sent dispatches to N.Y, Wash. Tampa in morning. Found dispatch from Cottrell Elwell at Key West. Wanted authority. Gusman had been there. Wired S C B in Egans' name. I would not give authority for Elwell Has his authority from the Committee twice over and does not keep his papers with him or loses them and then gets disputed There will be constant trouble with that other committee And I will not get into it Later train 8 o clock for Washington On train for Jacksonville 7 o clock [*M 18*] Up and dressed before any one in train. & am Keeping this scrabble up. Commenced to write An article for North American Review. Got on rather well Commenced it by saying that “Perhaps next to the actual “doing of the work at a field “of relief- the most difficult "thing was the telling of it.” [*Tues 19*] Egan gone on to N.Y. I write on article etc. Expect Steve, Lesser & Bet - to come at night. get house ready. Emma's poor Benny has died. Fanny better Barker up here yesterday over Continued 19 [*Tues. 19*] Dispatch from SEB For Hubbell & I to go to NY. - Ans.- “Hubbell & I will leave At midnight- raining hard” Got ready and went - Took sleeper. And 7 1/2 Wired Egan NY.- C. C. [*Wed 20*] Dr slept late. I lost patience. sat in train till nearly two hours were gone. Took case for Steve, got to W. Square just in time for breakfast. S E B nurses overworked, getting broken down. needs a helper & a balance wheel- to keep him out of mistakes. North American Review had wired yesterday to ask if I had their dispatch. Replied that I was suddenly called Washington Go N.Y tonight would hand them article whole or in part next day. I felt that I could give them something and was not disturbed when Mr called at Steves today. the 20th to See the article. I gave him what I had to be set up, and finished the rest. Mrs Dr Newman came to tell me that [M??tt?] Holly was at Murray Hill She could not come that Night. reported from Sun & World. Mr. Sherrien Dr. Lesser, Bettina Egan Cole. Egan had not [gon?] on to Boston. had seen pope R. H. There was over Continue 20 too much arranging by themselves about nurses I could not be with them and feared they would get into trouble, too fart. I thought to go home, but Steve would not permit had a talk with Mystic after retiring - Proof of article for N A Reun came to be overlooked for 9 tomorrow Thursday 21 April/98 Thus 21 The proof of article had to be overlooked while doing it Miss Holly came. I had her help and then stayed till nearly noon. A good visit - promised her photos for the artist on Albany State House War news gets bad Steamer to sail Sat 23 Hubbell to go in charge Mr Borys will go. Mr Butler Duncan. Mr Howard has been with us each day. I like him try much and want him to go with me he prefers to wait - M Cole will go to Tampa with us. Three Cuban Doctors called at evening. waiting for Lesser over Continue Thursday 21 Thur. 21 Mrs Raymond came while Doctors were here Steve asked her to make some flags. She was delighted Lesser & B[ilton?] came. They had arranged for ten nurses to go on the ship. S.E.B objected. I approved. it was too much show for the time too soon. no authority- Lesser [?]esced, disappointed. finally all went to station to see Dr H & G off for Wash at midnight. While getting car tickets Lily Mason poped up & commenced to apologize for a nasty article she said Charlotte Smith had published in the Telegram - I said a few words and left her. The Drawing room was given up. I slept some , had a head ache 00 Havana 1898 W.S. Meriwether New York Herald Hotel Ingleterra Alphonso W. Fritot Union Ticket Agent Jacksonville Fla. Fitzhugh Lee Consul Genl U.S.A. at Habana Cuba Amanda G. Suarez Consulate. Habana Reporter of Times Union Jacksonville, Fla 1898 Friday April 22 Glen Echo Fri 22 - From train 7-1/2 we went to look for Lucy Graves. She will go to Cuba with us. Went to M.D. Goriens to Good[years?] to see M Perkins bot londs 1/2 lb 75. to see Florence Mr Perkins said he had just seen Mr Pullman. he was going out to G.E. we went out home G.P. had been here & gone I saw nothing of him a telegram came at night - they were at National Hotel never came back - Dr H went at night to NY to ship next day. Many letters. decision of War Dept. in regard to Red + Sat Apr 23 GE. Ship sailed 3-1/2 Sat 23 I had general cleaning up about the premises. calls from Fanny B Ward " Co. R J H[unton?] gave them photos. they both want to go to Cuba with us Tel from Blake Baron Fernandina to go with me I did not go to town. A poor negro run over by car - Felt so sad, anxious. Though G would come, but the day passed Mrs Perkins & Flor came and mended me up. I could not make change to pay them. Lucy Graves came, wrote 2 letter to Steve. ++ Sent for groceries. Mrs Reed & niece came Sunday Apr 24 Glen Echo [*Sun 24*] Call 9 1/2 from M Howels of the Outlook who wants to send a man to be with us & to write for Outlook. Consent if we may see all he writes. Dr Egan arrived same time went through business papers with Mrs Reed. felt too sore and broken to do any thing. The state of things is The State of Texas went yesterday expects to arr Key West Thursday We plan to leave here tomorrow Monday night to meet her - I learn by let. that Lesser is hurt by Mrs Raymonds raising the flag on St of Tex. = naturally Mr Cob is to come and go with me to Tampa. On State of Texas are Dr Hubbell, Mr Duncan, Bang Mann - Heavy rain. Went to City - Depot Glen Echo Dull. rainy [*Mon 25*] Up early. Egan went to meet Cob 8 1/2 - missed him. Cob came to G. E. Mrs Reed & C.B went 9 1/2 - Loan & Trust. Met Egan. Could not cash chk of Upman. Havana - Sent long message telephone to Steve. had it done in NY. discount 8pe $1200.+ While waiting all this called & State Dpt Judge Day in Canton. went to White House Saw Mr McKinley. referred me to Adee went to him. he went to Navy dept Navy must have authority to act. Mr Adee wrote letter to Sec Long took it to Navy - acted upon Sec Long came to greet us gave letter of intro to naval commander this placed us right at sea. We are to report to com. Key West till we leave. Then to Ad samson Go out to G. Echo. M Cob there Bettina came 6 pm. we take dinner and make long evening Over Monday continued (Explanation) when I found by dispatch from Steve that Dr L & B - would not go at present I feared a rupture in my ranks at the field and telegraphed them that we shd wait over till Tuesday noon for them, this changed our time and made our passes better This decided Bettina to come at once to Wash. for explanation She was most reasonable - it is better for them to wait till there is something for nurses to do. we go now for food - It was vexatious to them to see Mrs Raymond raise the flag - but Bettina saw that it was not a greater grievance than others have to bear. Our household this night is C.B Mrs Reed Bessie Reed Bettina, Egan Cob, Tuesday Leave for Tampa Tues 26 Must take 930 train from house to catch 11:15 rainy - disturbed by money arrangement of Dr made too late got off in hast. Took only satchel & telescope. At train met Lucy Mr Hitz. Mrs Ward Mrs. Murray Col. Hirston - he [will by?] to go - Mrs Ward tells me that Lily Mason has just called on her with terrible stories of me. She lives with Charlotte Smith I don't know where, if in NY or Wash. I gave some hurried directions to Mrs Murray, but don't know if best to carry them out. Of our party are CB, Egan M Cobb, Lucy Graves. We make ourselves as comfortable as possible. Have our dinner of baked beans and travel on just where or for what no one knows retire early On train for Tampa [*Wed 27*] Rainy, dull. had met the Toleferoes of Jacksonville on board. We reached Jacksonville early think to wait 20 minutes for breakfast - find we have only five, rush to train. Blake Barton comes in car wants to go, sends dispatch later on train, Blake Barton comes in car wants to go, sends dispatch later on train, we answer Come. Wire back for Mrs. Ward Wire N.Y. Wire Tampa that we arrive 5.30 which is 6.30 Get a good pick up breakfast at Baldwin, get a lunch of Cake & strawberries to take on travelling good - day fine. I dictate letter to Mrs Murray to get depositions, but not connect Counsel. Arr. Tampa. find Dr. & Erroles and staff all there, get home, dusk, supper Miss Jennings there. On to Key West [*Thurs 28*] Send word to Genl Wode he is the son of "old Ben" he calls with Lieut Alma We take carriage and visit camps. 9th inft 4th inft cape Hall - all genial, glad to see us. Mrs Toune had arranged her church tea for tomorrow but changes the day to Tues All the Military are invited and all came at 4 PM. I receive with Rev Dehart. the Episcopal clergyman. a lovely entertainment of all Tampa, Tel Atlanta to send on supplies for com care Father Tyrill who is ill. Others of com call for them Cubans. we still adhere to Father Tyrrill. pack trunks pay rent to May 12 $62.00 Genl Wode wants rooms, we hold house if we desire, must [*over*] If the people desire me to return to Cuba, an distribut their gifts I am willing to do so - In the present condition of affairs I cannot do this without the fullest and strongest authority - from our government - The proper division of this relief should be as follows - The New York committee to collect ship, and place the relief on the island. General Lee to be responsible for the receipt of such supplies reporting to the government as at present, and conferring with the N Y committee. The Red cross, to receive the supplies, through the consuls if there, and be responsible for their distribution reporting to the N.Y. committee as the responsible agent of the government [*Brot over*] wire from Cuba if we want them longer. get our luggage ready in haste. I leave one trunk. take personal - steamer and box for book & papers M Cobb & Miss Graves find by the writer at Times office and bring up all the correspondence and business papers; At 7.30 train leaves for the Mascot & Key West. We all take it - Dr & Errola Miss Graves, four nurses Dr Egan - Cottrell, Elwell McDowell. Have engaged Elwell at $100 Mr & Mrs Plant came out to see us at hotel, and came to reception. Usually lectures for Key West at $10 each Miss Jennings goes Washington We reach boat at and leave at 10 o clock [*Mascot & Key West*] [*Friday 29*] I remained in bed till 3 PM, tried to write but don't know what to say dressed & had pencil sketch made by English Artist Landed - found Hubbell - & the passengers of State of Texas Capt Young. She is far off Went to Call on Commander Forsythe. handed papers he referred us to Capt Harrington of the Puritan, who came on to our tug - sent by Bryson of General- delivered copies of papers- and went on to the ship A nice ship - well named Supper- Mr Mann historian Mr Bangs Mr. Duncan - supper rooms. bed State of Texas April/ 98 [*Sat 30*] On board ship. Capt. Harrington called had sent over paper by special dispatch boat at midnight to Admiral Sampson near Havana. had no later intelligence of movements, the navy is ready and equal to the reducing of any of the ports but there are no land forces equal to holding them. Thinks is will be ten day before the military will be in force to make a combined attack. It seems to me that this delay under the circumstances is only a continuation of Wyler's method, and that most of the sufferers will be past the need of food before we can get any to them. Preparation for girls to go ashore. I decide no, but to go to church tomorrow. S.S. State of Texas [*Sun. May 1*] Nurses go to church under care of Mrs. Gardner. call from the Offices of the SS Panther - formerly the Venezuela. Capt Major of Newport - 600 men on board Do not approve the rush to arms. Approve the deliberation of the government. Waited in expectation of a reply from Admiral Sampson called by invitation of Capt Harrington of SS Puritan to meet his ship. delightful visit Capt a friend Admiral Sampson spoke with him of plan of seeing Blanco. to get food ashore. That I would go under Flag of Truce. Capt H. would write Admiral S. that night I would write also. S S State of Texas [*98*] [*Mon May 2*] Wrote Ad. S. before I was up,- copied it autograph and gave to M Cobb to take to Capt Harrington on Puritan to send to Admiral - M. Cobb did not find Capt H. and retained the letter. meanwhile came a call from a typical Navy man Capt. Chadwick he is one of the persons that fill the space all up in an instant He had to say that the Ad had received word of our arrival. Our papers - and had sent his reply which he delivered to me. He said the plan of the blockade was to keep food out of Cuba, while mine was to get it in. I talked with him very low and slow - mentioned that I had addressed a letter to the Ad. which he wished to see. I read it to him [*continued*] from the Press Book - he grew more considerate, said I had best see the Ad. he would take me. The New York had moved up from Havana to a few miles from us. The Capt took the steamer a large beautiful ship and escorted me to the N.Y. - the sea was rough. a little too much. I could not land on N.Y. & the Ad came on [?] the He said we did not seem to agree. I said we should not disagree, that I had consulted with Capt Harrington & had written a letter to be submitted to him. I gave it - he read it, & replied that our objects were precisely opposite, that he had no faith that Blanco would permit food to be given to any but his soldiers, still he held Blanco to be an honorable man [*over*] [*Continued*] he the Ad. would send me to Havana under flag of truce if I insisted. still he had no faith in it, and did not approve . I had no authority from the govt, nor any one else to do this and declined to go under such conditions. Our meeting was most friendly, at the close We spoke of the prospects. He most decidedly disapproved the plan of waiting for troops they had enough - the navy cd cover all the army force that was needed to land & take posession. The navy of the Philipians was destroyed by ours. Their own remained the Cape Verd to be found & destroyed. & he was to start next morning in search of it. This was confidential and I so held it. returned at dusk. sick and tired. S S State of Texas [*98*] [*Tues May 3*] M Cobb had prepared on the NY. that our letters he sent to Hd Qrs in the hope of the Ad. that so plain a statement of things here, might hurry them there, we decided to do it The Ad reread his letter & said it was his sentiments & he approved of sending it by dispatch. We had no govt rates in face at Key West. We wrote a preface to my letter took it to the Consor -to telegraph office. Called S.E.B. for rates, left it to be sent when govt rates arrived. The girls sewed with Enola on flags & [bra??ads]. found cloth I had brot. Dr made stamp. cut crosses all worked well. Mrs Graves & Mr Cobb went ashore and wrote on type writer cannot borrow nor buy. but have cabled for one to S.E.B. C. C. took up letters. I dictated to Luz. past letters S. S. State of Texas [*98*] [*Wed May 4*] The Govt rates came, the long messages went to SEB in the hope that he would take it to Wash. I cabled Kennan, who says he is helping in Wash before coming here. Sent invitation to Mrs Lake to spend day. She came at 2 & stayed till 8 - a happy day for her A Cuban delegation came at evening. We are trying to get up the back letters, into files S S State of Texas [*98*] [*Thur May 5*] The household all took a sail in the harbor a happy family In the morning something suggested the explanation of the Red Cross. I took the one copy of the history as a text and went through it with them. occupying from 2 to 3 hours. I never had a more attentive and interested audience. They thought they knew something of the subject. A telegram from S.E.B had said he would go to Wash with the long dispatch today. Col Kelton & Lieut Moses calls in the evening There is great question what the next move will be S. S. State of Texas [*98*] [*Friday May 6*] All these days are clear, fine, sunny, warm there has been no rain since Oct The wells are dry. Enold took the girls over to use a sewing machine. Bot tape & neckties a la G. P. for me. I paid her Bill $5.00 Gave C 11.C to pay men Mc Dowell 60 Elwell 100 Cottrell 125 Tampa bill Mc D 38 Wrote S E B in regard to Com. following the tel of yesterday Was type written & sent Letters of the Boston Click - who have gone to the Pres & cabinet to have Rev Diaz made the distributor of supplies in Cuba. The papers are referred to me by the Asst Sec of State. Move = McKennon has discovered from the Depts that I am not to be allowed to land, and he is not coming at all. it is just as well. I never expected it fully. Phil appoints Dr McNiell to represent the Red cross of Phil. I am glad of this. if I have the pwr to be glad of any thing. McMann has written a letter to the Omaha Herald concerning their Shipment of Thurston supplies. Rev Frazier of Cong ch dined with us. very pleasant. com to buy paper -covered press Books. El Bejucal 3/4 hour by RR to Winne Pop. 8000 in all reconcentrados 2500 no hospital need " 300 public charity food Daily death 10 to 12 persons. Fever. wasting of blood no clothing. Time of train - 6 AM daily John Hitz Mr Hitz volta B ?? 35 & Q Tel no " . 1430 Telegraph " Kennan 1331 conn ave. Bank - check on Com. $1400. 5 - $100 dem. 6 - 50 " 10 - 20 20 -10 20 - 5 35 - 2 30 - 1 = 1400 State Dept. Day Capitol - Proctor. Black skirt Corset waste Ribbons Veils combs - fine coarse switches comb Back- Shoe laces Black wastes - Carbon paper - Envelopes hdkfs - 668.27 Wardo Bank - $.100- Ramesford Memoranda Flat irons basen - paper boxes irons 1.00 ribbon .35 " 1.40 lace .35 ?? .90 Sponge - hammer 4.00 Diary - 1898 Notes on Cuba Record Clara Barton. SS State of Texas. May 7 1898. S.S. State of Texas. This is the third small book in which have been written notes of Cuba. The first a red book commencing with the first of the field - The second a long thin little gray book, picked up incidentally ending with May 6. There small books are to be copied into a larger book when the time can be found to do it. 1898 Sat [Saturday] May 7. 3 S.S. State of Texas The first rain here since October - dull day. Last night's mail having brot [brought] letters from S.E.B. [Barton] containing his letters with official recommendations upon resolutions passed by the1st Baptist Church of Somerville Mass [Massachusetts] signed by Rev. [Reverend] Mr. Barrows & others all recommending the appointment of Mr. Diaz a distributor of supplies in Cuba. and the properties having been made for him to be placed in charge of the distribution. with much else of a similar nature - I used all the first half of the day in dictating replies. to S.E.B. and the other parties. After dinner when to the shore in the Puritan's launch sent in consequence of the rough sea. Wrote Lucy. Gave over to type write Went to bank and drew from [Com?] in N.Y. [New York] $5000[keeping?] $25. [dis???t] continued 4 Commandant Forsythe came personally to identify me I left my signature. The money was counted by both Dr. Hubbell and Mr. Cobb and found to be one hundred & fifty dollars short which was rectified. we wrote [c??????] to Mrs. Lake. the jewelry store. made a call, and walked to Mr. Hyatt's a very pleasant call. to drug store - got alcohol violet water - soaps - dentifrice sponge. Met Mr. Bryson Learned that a Herald [re????ic] is ill of fever. cannot get a nurse Dr. Egan proposes that one of our nurses go. Speak with Dr. Egan & Enola of too much familiarity of one captain with the nurses Notice comes from S.E.B. of a dispatch in papers that Admiral 5 Sampsen and Commandant Forsythe both strongly objected to my going to Cuba with the Texas with any females. S.E.B. recommends that I leave nurses at Key West if objected to. The notice came in the Herald of the Committee formed in N.Y. [New York] of 25 leading men of wealth & position. Also notice of the sailing of the S.S. Solace equipped as a hospital Red Cross ship - It would not be strange if the powers ordered me from the field, in view of this official vessel coming into use - It would be in keeping with the doings of our people. I feel in all this turmoil of ambition, and strife for place, as if surrounded by a herd of wolves - Their howls do not terrify, but they make me want to escape. 6 S.S. State of Texas Sunday May 8 [*1898*] - clear but a storm evidently approaching. In view of the reports of S.E.B. that we could take no "females" on our ship and also that one of the nurses was going to nurse a Herald reporter (Pelt) I thought it best to have a talk with them all this morning, and had them all assemble in the smoking room, and spoke with them. It seemed to take well. We got off the packages, letters and inclosures concerning the Resolution of the 1st Baptist Church and Rev. Barrows & Rev. Diaz. Mr. Bryson, good soul, sent us over his type writer (a Smith). Excellent! A talk of moving forward. Mrs. Lake came over. Am informed that 6 or 8 Spanish prize fishing boats are without food but the fish in their tanks. we decide to send them food tomorrow - they are Cubans & some Americans among them. 7 S. S. State of Texas Monday May 9 [*1898*] Mr Kennan arrives clear fine. cool day. The papers came from the US Marshal, having been called in court for the request to the Red Cross to furnish food to the captives on the prize ships (15) in the harbor. The food was taken from the ship supplies, carried over by the launch of the Panther, and distributed among the ships crews. They had only live fish and brown sugar to eat. At 10 1/2 a little row boat came up with Mr Kennan on board, he arr'd last night. Mrs. Kintown. Mr Kn. took notes for a letter to the Outlook, and left by courtesy of the launch Phil. to return this P.M. I prevailed on a few of the co. to try to take Spanish lessons, with Mr Elwell for teacher! he went to town to get 6 Books, "Spanish at a glance" and we commence tomorrow. I gave M Cottwell in hand $125.00 to meet current needs, and acct for same. We find that Dr Barnett, our druggist 8 is without means of living. he has all his money in Havana with part of his family - will return with us to do good service - I hand him $50.00 Mr & Mrs Kennan returned and dined, will come tomorrow to stay he sent a dispatch of two hundred words and will write a letter tomorrow for the Outlook. We got off several letters. I wrote Dr. Lesser, Mrs Reed, Miss Jennings The men found some of the 20 ships entirely without food, gave food for 2 weeks to all. They have made a long and hard day. done good work A good article explaining the N.Y Committee in the World. A likeness of Genl Lee in "Life" with comments. Got Spanish books and took the first lesson of Mr Elwell to be studied for 9 S.S. State of Texas Tuesday May 10 [*1898*] clear cooler. The work of the day was the distribution of food among the 20 prize ships in the harbor. 2 boats were loaded with about two tons from the ship and Mr Cobb, Dr Egan, Dr Gardner, Mr & Mrs Kennan went out some 6 miles and made the distribution. Capt Harrington of the Puritan sent his launch and took me to the prize ship = "Pedro" - some 2 miles out Mrs. Gardner & Mr Elwell went with me The ship is a transport between Spain Cuba, N.O. Boston England etc - she put in at Havana not knowing of the war was captured with 35 men and 5 days provision on board, was going to N.O. They have only some fish in their well. & some oil - no other food for days. The Capt is a man of thought - does not blame any one. says Spain is foolish - that her rabble make the [?war?] = he knew all about the Red + and wishes it could get the men into some neutral port to wait 10 Enola took the girls over to town to make some little purchases I gave each of them $5.00 $20.00 As a gift, not salary. They were very grateful but delicate about taking it feeling that the good time they are having more than compensates them. The men returned late, having supplied some 20 boats with 100 to 150 men. 11 S.S. State of Texas Wednesday May 11. [*1898*] Rainy - dull A little more distribution - Reports of the work since Florida - in Key West. and the boats written up. - one copy sent, as addressed, to S.E.B. - a copy sent to Sec. Day. A letter from Mr. Cobb, and one from me to S.E.B. showing the necessity of a yacht or launch for our work - It would be very well, in fact indispensable to effective work. but, how much work have I ever done that was really effective? and for reasons like this. The old simily of "boring the auger hole with a gimlet". but I shall continue the work after that fashion - The effort in life seems to me, not to be, win, but to escape. A letter from Mrs Reed, she does not feel right that her letters have not reached her. It has been hard to keep up with the wants and needs of every one under all our hindrances - Mrs. Reed sends clipping I had seen before L M S. S. State of Texas 1898 12 Thursday May 12. clear day This morning mail brot two letters I shall be likely to remember - The mail was large, and we worked hard on it. Mr. Kennan came. he told his messages from the heads of Depts & the leading people. The "War Dept. was so jealous" No letter from SEB for a week - he must be away The distribution among ships goes on At evening went to pay a call on Capt Harrington of the "Puritan" Dr & Enola, Bub. Egan Cobb Littlest boy on board - Conner of Washington - D St. Capt sent us him in his launch - and will come in morning to take me to commander of Port. The object of my visit was to [notify] remind the Navy that if all went off and left us without notification, we must stay right here - Letter from Mrs. Reed, tells of Lily Masons reports in Washington 1898 SS State of Texas 13 Friday May 13 clear Slept little last night. woke early unrefreshed. Capt Harrington came early, took us ashore to Commander office, he was in great hurry. I would not sit down showed him Dept papers - gave him copy Looked over mail - Telegram from N.Y. SEB away. Scheerin wants to buy meat here. Klopsch objects - a meeting will be held tomorrow night to decide - S.E.B will be back. I called for a long call on Mrs Kennan Met cor. of Chicago Record - White - wants his wife to come=consented - Met Maj. Corchran - of "Panther" - 800 troops Mr. Kennan came to go with our folks to distribute tobacco to ships (Matches) we purchase it at .30 a lb. - a call from chief engineer of Panther - Mr. McDowell not well. Spanish goes better - Letter from Col Elwell - wants John to come home Mrs Jennings writes of Lily Masons' reports in Washington 1898 SS State of Texas Saturday May 14 - Dull [rainy?] This day broken up by moving from the hot room. to the smokers room. Dr H bot 3 tables - camp stools - Mr & Mrs Kennan came to stay- have 2 rooms. Rvn White - clric Recard came to call. thinks his [wife?] will come Enold & CB went to Key West to make all purchases, got ribbons white & red - lace-edgings-- News that Ad. Sampson is hunting the Spanish fleet of Purto Rica. Box by Express from Mrs. Reed. She must go home in 2 weeks and would like to stay -- The Transport "Gussie" tried to land aims for insurgents and met Spaniards, had a short brush, and retreated McDowell has been ill 2 days seems to have exposed himself to the sun, hard headache -- Mr Cobb gets testimonials from all the prize ships -- take letters from them to send home. 1898 SS Slate of Texas Sunday May 15 clear cooler The girls, Dr & Mrs. Gardner go ashore to visit the graves of the Maine and attend the funeral of another dead soldier -- Mr Bigelow & Lieut Nolan of SS Gurrie called - were just in from the retreat. Bigelow is on London Times had long talk -- he favor Spain more than most of us do -- disapproves Am Generalism -- the yellow I opened the Ex Box. found foreign letters -- one from Spain -- wants questions ansd -- & pictures. Germany Seria Portugal offers to act between Spain & US Red Cross. France sends check; notes of August Belmont Mrs Kennen has ill turn -- Mr Cobb has a pain, Nola & I turn nerves & put on Mustard, Less warm-- Expectation moving soon-- No mail out today. List of choice letters sent by Mrs Reed will try to enter them on next page 16 17 S.S. State of Texas - Key West Monday May 16 [*1898*] Clear. cooler. windy. Nola & CB. went ashore for small shopping ribbons buttons, muslins, sozodont Cobb & Dr E. bot scales. letterpress. gift notes Met Cor. Quigley. laid his article to him. denied ever writing it. let him off for a [knave?] M Knight of London Times here. goes to Cuba. I send copies of Admiral Sampsons & my letters to Senor Congosto. Calls from Rev. Frazer - Rev. Jacksonville Mr. Hyatt I write Mrs Reed. tell her to send mail here. Let Emma take the house. all stay as they are, but if Barker stays he is to have one $ and Emma $2. - for nursing him. no rent no family - The report of unit of Comte to President McKinley & Depts - A ship proposed by Surg. Genl. Sick on board all better. News of general starvation in Havanna the people getting like the reconcentrados 1898 S.S. State of Texas = Key West 18 May 17. Tuesday Clear, cool, for a summer This day has been given to getting of a large mail. C.B wrote in room from day light to Mrs. Reed, Sue Brown, Mr. Briggs & Emma Jones - congratulations ++++ to Chinese minister Wash. Can the starring Chinese in Cuba, recommend their country accepting the Red Cross - The call has come from NY consul Genl call from Episcopal minister of Key West Tables in new office papered McDowell continues ill. Mr Mann is not satisfied with his position as recognized on the boat. This comes to C.B. through the offices. It is recommended that the com. of N.Y. find something more worthy of his talent and standing, a letter signed by all of them goes to the "Key West" at 10, night. Mr Cottrell arranges money letters and checks sends latter to Mrs. Reed to collect Sends also the French draft of $4,470.70 to Riggs Bank to be held for use - when needed 1898 S.S. State of Texas Key West May 18 Wednesday 19 18. Clear, warm - fine day This day has not seemed to go well mainly because we could not get placed C.B dictated letters till noon. personal friendly letters - long & hard to write Enola went ashore - bot tumblers fishing twine, useful things. Moved Mac to other end of boat Dr clothes the major - makes paste Mr. Elwell goes Tampa to look after conditions and supplies. 20 S S State of Texas Key West Thursday May 19. [*1898*] Got office in better shape. Telegram from SEB. Spoke of it to Mr Kennan and called offices to gather in office and took measures of approval We shall doubtless feel the change lest we hope it will not be too great notes of the meeting will be put in the Press Book of this date An English Dr called wants to go with the Red Cross - We dont want him - Capt moved out 5 miles to the S.S. Concho. to get provisions he had brought for this ship. he went on shore with other captains before, was late - count not get boat off. anchored in stream and lay all night, half sea sick. when he was spoken to and asked to go on to our 21 " anchorage. he replied that he was " not to be bluffed - he knew the charter " and that he commanded this ship " an it would stay where it was tonight We were a few nods from the Concho. we took supper. the Capt took a boat and went over to the Concho for the evening. Mr Cobb and Dr H came to me and reported the above, and also gave the opinion that he had been a little surley since he felt himself slightly corrected for carelessness in department among the young ladies - although it was only a general talk to all. I at once sent for one of the ladies and cautioned her. she saw it all. and there will be no trouble with her in future There will have to be some change and a stricter discipline among our own men. at least a better show of it. 22 SS State of Texas Key West 1898 Friday May 20 fine, warm We found ourselves scarce 100 [??ds] from the Concho. The Capt had staid on our ship. We steamed back to our old anchorage. The feeling is note good. McDowell better Mr Kennan wanted letters to Comtt Fesyth And Admiral Sampson, which he took to Flags Ship N.Y. got little news. some ship moving out. I resumed my dictation, 20 letters - We sent out a mail of nearly 50 letters Another came back - one from Dr Lesser a report of the aux committees in detail They have trouble with Phil. and with the ignorance of the govt in Red + I wrote Sir Vincent - Barrington Mr Richard Bartleman V C. Maloza must have left Spain. Still more trouble abt, Mr Mann & the boat. A man fell through the ship to the hole of Oseeola, our surgeons went at the call, but the ship surgeon of the Panther came and took him in hand to the his guest of Dr Egan. 23 1898 S.S. State of Texas Key West Saturday May 21. another fine day breezy & cool on board, hot on shore McDowell a little better, still a patient. A call from Mr T. F Fauman. cor of London Standard - 25. ruede la Paix the Paris cor. of Standard, a friend with him. could not understand position of our Red Cross. why we were not in great preparation for wounded & sick - I made a labored explanation of our methods. and that this ex. was started while at peace & not yet accomplished. at length Mr Kennan joined us and gave his testimony that our War Dept did not want nor accept us. That the government did not realize the position. was not informed. as to its relations to the treaty and was acting adversely in the lack of ignorance Another call from Mrs Lee of Dallas editor of a magazine - "Period" brot letter from Mrs. Earhart N.O. who is at Tampa. C.B. read attentively the Report of Dr Lesser of all the doings of committees, and ended by writing to S.E.B. -- Dr Lesser & Mr Wardwell 24 as strong letters as possible to the relations of the Red Cross to the treaty & theirs to the treaty. There letters were sent out at night, press copied. S E B. in the Book "Personal" -- the others "Official" -- We are still very doubtful of the results Those men are trying to do something they know little about, and are likely to endanger or ruin the entire organization in as much as they assume the point of consulting with the Government direct -- and of fixing allegations which cannot be annulled by the National It seems to us that the danger to us is too great to allow them to go on -- & far along in the evening Mr. Kennan was called into the office, and the proposition made that we steam to Tampa tomorrow morning. and CB Mr K and whoever else thought best go to Washington and help to straighten things out. If we are only a civil charitable society like the DAR or WCTU. let us know it. let the 25 country know it, and be no longer deceived by our false pretense. if we have no status under the treaty, and it is all rested - and vested in the War Dept let it be known. and let us retire -- We have no desire to try to serve a cause in which we are neither recognized nor wanted. if our Government, in the knowledge of the situation makes this decision, then we will lay aside all further support make it known to the world that America has no universal relief body, That its people prefer to work only for themselves. and thus we have in reality No longer a Red Cross -- That our people prefer to aid its sick and wounded through its War Dept and therefore there is no existing body in the US. through which other Red Cross Societies can aid. That this being the decesion of our Government after mature conversation with it. We decide that 26 our only course. regretful, humiliating and sad as it is. Must be to so inform the other nations and return to them the funds already sent, a larger sum than has been contributed by all our own people to us for war relief - and call all clered. It is possible we have done our work so poorly as to necessitate a course like this on the part of our President and his cabinet, still it would not be strange if some day an other President - and cabinet, better informed and with broader views should revive the subject and call for a revision of the Treaty of 1882. It was decided that the Capt [Captain] be directed to steam for Tampa early in the morning - Telegrams were sent to S.E.B. Lerrer Wardwell word to Solomon to be prepared to come to Washington, that we would leave Tampa Monday night. 1898 SS State of Texas Left Key West for Tampa on ships. 27 Sunday May 22 At 8 on the morning we steamed out of Key West harbor for Port Tampa, leaving a city of conjecturing people. What are they going for & where. for a little while I remained up, but we had to go outside. The sea was rough, and nearly all found their beds for the rest of the day. I had given Lucy the three letters of M. Moynier to copy. She was not able. Dr. Gardner wrote a strong paper which we will take. Mr. Duncan decides that he will go to New York and see his people who are a little uneasy about him. We think to leave the ship in charge of Dr. Hubbell & Egan and write papers to that effect, and also for the Captain to respect their orders.- The party for Washington stands C.B. [Clara Barton] Mr. Kennon - Mr. Cobb. SS. State of Texas = On bd- Port 1898 28 Tampa-Tampa Monday May 23 Twenty four years ago today, I reached Worcester, having been brot through from Washington to take my last look at poor dying Sister Sally. She could not wait and I arrived to find that she had gone two hours before. Poor sweet soul, ready for the Heaven ready for her, if for any - at all events rest. which she so needed- a useful life, with its joys, its sorrows its loves and its carer had ended, and the liver passed to the beyond. Then followed my years of weakness and woe- how I lived them I cannot conceive, and sometimes I find it an equal mystery. - Why, Vester and Bernard and poor dear Minnie have all passed on - and I here, twenty four years older. well, strong, and still striving with the world: not one soul near me that I knew, or had ever heard of then. It is quite another world, in a few years I shall be to them what the others are to me; a memory - nothing more But I have forgotten that this is a continued 29 mere business, work-a-day journal - and not a diary- The sea grew calm. we came to anchor at Port Tampa about 9 1/2. used the rest of the day till 4 in getting ready for the help we added two to our number. Dr. Hubbell and Mrs. Kennon. We placed Dr. Gardner in Dr. Hubbells place in the ship. Took one large trunk the press Books. All papers we could think of. left fifty dollars with Dr. Egan & Mr. Corttell each - and Dr. Hubbell also and paid $30 to Mr. Corttell that Dr. H. had expended in purchases. Nola was as good as gold, helped me off in all things. The "Herald" says that Dr. Steinberg is placed in all active charge of Red Cross matters for this country - etc etc. if so, I have nothing to say - I suppose - and indeed what should I care. I have done all I could with what I had to do with. At 4 P.M we rowed out to Port Tampa, took train for Tampa, Tampa 30 bay hotel. A mixture of Officers, reporters and sightseers. The first to encounter was the visitors of day before. Mrs. Lee of Dallas, & the 'Period' - next- Mrs. Earhart - of N.O. a true type of the "women of the Period". determined to see and to get all there was to be seen and had, pushing women, still good active workers in their way. Mr. Kennon called on Genl. Shafter- who came down stairs to call on me. he made a pleasant call, is a large, short desperately swelled out man, still a rather fine looking person. he knows nothing of the future. Met several reporters, all pleasant but starved for news, hundreds in and about Tampa. Met Mrs. Cummings. the daughter in law of Chester & Deborah Borden Cummings of Charlston. M. Cobb drove to Mrs. Toune who came at once, glad and bright - we must go home with her to stay 31 we drove up, house full, met Lieut Hutton & wife. Col. & Mrs Liscom who had met me at Sorosis dinner. Mrs. Porch came in to insist on my sleeping in her home - she first thing was to show one Margaret picture painted for her in Chicago - a landscape little scene, and old nod. hill clump of trees with lovely trunks as she could so well make - It meant a great deal to me, and takes its place in my memory A good nights sleep in a lovely room The parlor chamber. This, like Mrs. Townes own house beside it was designed by Mrs. Towne, who has excellent taste. She is a loving enthusiastic woman. The picture of health but "that cough" is the "canker in the core", she will be likely to go early. Mrs. Porch will, I fear, be left with the children. We found Mr. Elevell there. he had done splendidly in the relief - has full papers, want to earn in which makes 1898 on train, Tampa to Wash Tuesday, May 24 Another bright clear day 6 am. carriage came to take us to station all left in good time. the morning Red cross news not very good said our "hospital ship" was up at Tampa to gain the transports, the NY papers tell of the troubles of the Red cross, - War Dept - etc. The day hot dusty - a common car, no accommodations too rocky to write. I read a novel for a wonder, not worth reading nor writing Met a few persons. A Mr Hovey of the great Hovey families. he is of NY is called to Chatanooga to take a contract of a million dollars. govt coal - a fine natured typical man, - A young Jacksonville man born in Mississippi is a lumber man, could not see the methods of the war - wants to do anything he can for us. Stop at Waldo for dinner wait at Jacksonville from 4 to 7. supper. I take tea. - and take train - Evening news in Sun of a Steam Tug & hospital ship for Red Cross. splendid, if true. we gain heart a little retire early. have a whole section 1898 train - Jacksonville to Wash Wednesday May 25 Up at 4, to get window closed, cold damp & dirty, laid down again till 5. dressed for the day. no one else up, barely morning my section made up clean and sat down by myself to write up this groggy diary fearful. but may be better than nothing, when there is nothing else to refer to for the passage of time -- The day passed like any day of travel Met long trains of soldiers going to Tampa & Jacksonville. It became known on one of them that The Red Cross was on our train Ev got carried through the train & the men rose up as they passed and reached out of the windows shouting and cheering -- Met Mrs Poole of Detroit where son had enlisted in Co M. 1st Wisconsin. I gave cards for Sen Mitchel & Gen. Arrd Wash 10 Pm. our home, 11 train. - Dr. H. Mr Cobb & CB The Kennans staid in the city. Barker & Mrs Reed & niece at house Elder up county at work 1898 Glen Echo. - 34 Thursday May 26. Sat up late - or rather early 3 1/2 am. searching drawers for papers. = copies of identifications of the recognition of Red + sent to Geneva. and all letters etc given at the time of Treaty. Found all that seemed necessary to satisfy Mr Kennan who was fearful of our status with the Government I am unable to assure or to convince him that we need nothing. That all that was settled with the ratification of the treaty that all the talk about non recognition was the result of ignorance or malice -- The only danger laid in the ignorance of the Govt Officials; Mr Kennan who had never looked deeply into the subject, and needed almost as much instruction as a stranger felt that it was imperative that all be gone over, and established and to convince him. I brought to light the old credentials so long ago given - with such labor, and toilsome patience It was late this morning when I woke. Mrs Reed was nearly ready 35 for he leave by train for Boston. we had breakfast. and a few minutes with Mrs Reed arranged all her well kept financial accounts. and placed her money in hand, in my charge I handed her $200 dollars - the $100. for her expenses of travel to and from Boston during the time - and $100. for her lively assistance. she was sure it was too much. I was sure it was not enough. She will return in a few weeks or months if needed. Mrs. Murrey came to tell of Camp Alger. and the desire of the L.L.Ws to take charge of its relief And to speak of the Bill, in the hands of Mr Henry. and which had been re arranged by the Govt in some way. I feared it was not made clear enough and Mr Cobb went over all the old Bills to amend Mr Cobb went to town. Emma cleared up after plasterers. 2 paid plasterers $10.00 M C returned late. not satisfactory day Glen Echo- 1898 36 Friday May 24 It was settled that we must go to the city as early as possible. to see as many persens as we could- Mrs. Kennan had been out yesterday Mr. K. was at work on his "Outlook" letter, have not seen him, but he has been to Depts to reach for documents of Red Cross, but could not find them Good reason - the Govt never did any thing about the work. I did it all, and have all the proofs & papers The Govt consenting to the proposals of the International com. made through its official medium. We went directly to Mrs. Murry's office, and found she had made an arrangement with "Corporal Tanner" to go with me at 2 PM to call on Sec Alger. I had not even asked it, but accepted the arrangement and went with Mrs. M to the Loan & Trust bldg to find Tanner. -- We went to the War Dept. Mrs. Murry not 37 waited long for the Sect. to return from lunch. genial & kind as ever - The Corporal had been troubled fearing I should not display sufficient vim and force in my remarks, and ventured to suggest that he hoped I had not lost my "old time rigor and wd succeed in making myself felt." I replied that I had no arguments to make, I had nothing to ask. of "The Sec. only that he would understand "me. (That I would like him to be "set right in regard to the false position "in which the tone of the press "placed me - ) I presumed the Corporal "would be very much disappointed in me': I think he thought so too. As I sat down by the Sec. I called The "Corporal" to come and sit by us - I said to the Sec. much the same that I have written above, but it was hard to say even that. I had been so sore all day, the tears had been so near the surface 38 that it was well nigh impossible to keep them them back, and crowd the words by them. Tanner listened a few minutes - very few - when he drew up and looking the Sec full and sharp in the face said, "Alger, "you know I am a blunt man -- "that I speak what I think, -- here is "a woman wounded to the heart "and you are helping to do it. through "the jealousies and injustice of your "office this is being done - And this "is not the women that either you "or I should see harmed or trampled 'on". The Sec looked aghast - and turning to me asked what it all meant". in a few words I told him of the clique among his officials. he aske me to name them. I pointed out his Surgeon Genls Dept. and gave the points that would confirm - He bade me have no more concern - he would deal with those individuals." and I hastened away. fearing to trust 39 myself longer. There was no one else I wanted to see, and the question of N.Y came next we found a long distance telephone. spoke with Steve who said come to N.Y. tonight. it was now 5 1/2. we dined - went out to Glen Echo. packed satchel and the three left Glen Echo 10 1/2 for N.Y. - had paid for Telephon 4.80 ... .. .. tickets & letter 12.00 took section and half. retired and slept well. But here comes the crowning feature of this eventful Friday - at the telephone store asked if I had not read Judge Days letter of today. we had read nothing all day. on going out the bot. a Tribune and read the letters of the Sec of State. both to the Com of N.Y. and to the Secretaries and Dept of the Army and Navy. -- It was all done for me. The strain of years had been taken off - The recognition. The Bill - and all expectations. I looked at me to see if it were me 40 New York Saturday May 28 [*1898*] Train on time. breakfast in rest. cars to 3 Wash. Sqr. another breakfast Steve less rushed Call from Mr. Wardwell & Col Faun sec. of Relief Com. They wish me to remain until after their genl meeting of Tuesday. Monday being a holiday. Call from Mrs. Butler Duncan N. 5th ave. to dine with them Sunday Dr Luz and Robt. good as gold we went to ride. Herald reporter. young lady went with us. I told her the attitude of the Herald towards us. and boldly sent the word back to them. that I knew their position was both surprised and hurt by it. that they were the only really hostile paper in all the large dailys. that I did not understand their course. that while I did'nt fear, they hurt me - I hope she does the errand - 41 New York - Sunday May 29. [*1898*] A day of reporters, and newspapers C.B. went to dine at the Duncans- a lovely house - charming people Mrs. Paul Dana the daughter and two little girls - our Mr. Duncan there had a long talk with all after lunch about Red + work committees societies etc - Mr Duncan saw me home - found Mr Solomans - then came the two Cuban Doctors Salzosa & Carbonel- N reporter of NY World staid to get information of Steve he did now know me - M Graves of Sun and other papers did see me- Mrs Lindly came this morning from Dr Hall - long talk as she is a speaker- letter from Cerentes' di Boozza- Dr Luz Robt & friend - Mrs Hamm. bot $12. dolls. told of opposition of Mt Vernon to Red + Mrs. Walworth offering - Mrs Raymond treasurer of op society - full hard day meet more people to help us organize New York- 1898 42 Monday May 30 Decoration day. weather clearing - cool- This being a "holiday", no progress could be made-Lesser & Bettina came home from Boston early. The Cuban Doctors Solyoso & Carlanele came at night - Mr. Cobb came to work on the extracts from "history of Red Cross." The day is hard, lonesome from the very rush and presence of people. The D. A. R. under Mrs. Walworth are organizing in force to work for the Govt. through the Surgeon General. a meeting was held tonight at which Dr. Lesser & Wardnell spoke, and Mrs. Walworth followed them. with the arguement that what they gave went direct, and to our own people, and was not given to our enemies. 1898 New York 43 Tuesday 31 Mr. Kennan came in from his Jersey home. Mr. Cobb is looking about launches and putting the Red Cross letters into the printers hands. Reporters are on every hand. never was so great an opportunity to get all published one might ever want to say. I promised the N.Y. Herald a little letter that should contain my reference to their early help 15 years ago. Went with Dr. Hubbell to call on Mrs. Geo. West at the Belgravia. Dr. H & Bertha lunched together and Mrs Helen and C.B - took our carriage for home. $4.++ At evening had calls from Mr. & Mrs. Wardnell. & Mr.& Mrs. [Forier?] the daughter of Chas Halpine - Mr. Solomons present - Kennan in and out - Cobb, - The conversation turned on the subject of the committees and were not agreeable, full of ignorance, and want of confidence. I became disgusted, and worn out. wished I had nover heard of a committee Reports if fighting in Santiago de Cuba 1898 New York - leave for Washington Wednesday June 1 This was the day not to meet the committee of the Relief. New members must be put on the National to make up for those I would take away Went to Waldorf to ask Mr Baldt he accepted - & recommended Job Hedges and Mayor Grace. Called on Job Hedges - he thinks he is too young, wants to consider. At 4 pm went to Chamber of Commerce to meet com. found there Mr. Wardwell, Gov- Morton - Mr Lowe - Mr Touer - sec - Suab Dr Shrady - Mr Solomons - of [?] Mr Kennan - Steve - Cobb - C.B - Mr Warduell introduced - C.B. told them the story of the Nat Com. who they were All seemed to be satisfied. Mr Kennan addressed them giving the laws & rules that should govern the relations of the two committee. ships & launches were spoken of. all understood the relations better. We would be reasonable in our demands. and they would acceed to any reasonable request & the meeting adjourned at almost night. a general hands- shaking and expressions of good will followed - and the row of reporters were met and spoken with - told that the meeting was most satisfactory the NY press thanked for past circulation and friendliness - and we separated & went home - Dr Lerrer & Bettina & Mosart - Dr Salzosa and in short the house full till near 10- when it seemed to C.B. that it was her place to go to Washington, the rumors of a more are too rife to be resited Gave to Steve the power to act for me in my absence - to add such members as thought wise. picked up & packed up and Dr Hubble & CB started at 11, for the train for Washington Bot tickets - 6. sleeper 4 - took car. met McElroy - retired & slept well - 1898 Washington, DC 46 Thursday June 2 Fine morning-up dressed and wrote up back diary in car - 1898 Washington DC 47 Friday June 3 48 Saturday June 4. 1898 Washington 49 Sunday June 5 Clear fine day- All home. M. Cobb ran typewriter all day- made copies for Steve. con. boats Wrote for C.B. [Clara Barton] a long letter to Steve detailing the work of the last 2 days. Mrs. Spencer dined--told of L.M's. visit Mr. Leech of old Hilton Head memories called eve [evening] 1898 Washington 50 Monday June 6 Went early to town to see Sec War pleasant call. Got replies to Judge Days letter from both Sec. of War & Navy Went to Bank, drew notes Went to Mr. Kenmans, to Warners- to dentist - had an nerve killd had to wait over if for nothing else Mr. Kenman speaks with Mr. Porter about membership in Red + Dr remains home Mr & Mrs Kenna coming out tomorrow. We have difficulty in getting stuff for a dinner 51 Tuesday June 7 Waited long for the Kennans to come at length Mr K came, with the news that Mrs Sec Porter wanted to go to Cuba with us & that they would drive out today. Mrs Kennan came later. we had a good dinner - Mr & Mrs. Porter came at 5 PM She will go to Cuba - We had a meeting of old time Elected as members of Natl Mr D.L. Cobb. Sec. Porter. Dr Egan. Mr Such called, he goes to Manilla paymaster Rochester clerk. 52 1898 Wednesday June 8 Went into town with Mr Cobb & Dr H. Mr Kennan sent letters of armament to new opportunities Permission granted by the Secretary of War & Navy for the Red Cross to afford relief in the camps of soldiers C.B. went with Mrs. Kennan to buy skirts & dresses - got 1 dress 1 gray & 1 white skirt Dine at Mr Dolls - Mr Kennan & Mr Cobb decode to go to NY to settle the business with the two committees Mrs. Porter who had thought to go with us to Cuba decides not to go. +++++ C.B will remain home and work on copy of Book Grew very tired of all this am so sore of heart that I can scarcely carry the burden of life - 1898 Washington G. E 53 9 Thursday June 9 Clear bright day no one home but Dr H & C B read up the Report made in 93 to the members of the Red Cross on the subject of a reincerferation [?] Find it will do for a link in the new Edition of the History Dr goes to town to see if Mr Briggs can do the typewriting. Mr Briggs comes at 5, takes the [Bella?} book home with him to do the copying, will aid in getting it ready for the printer. Dr sees some friends in town finds that Mrs. Charlotte Smith is endeavoring to prevent the passage of the Protection Bill. - Mrs. Tanner called, to see about permission to work in Camp Alger Mrs Muney gone west - Rev Mr Zimmerman of Johnstown memory called, will have charge at Santiago Cuba when taken Washington G.E. 1898 54 10 Friday June 10 1898 Fine weather. clear - warm. Mr. Kennan & Mr Cobb still in NY only Dr H & C.B home. No change of news from Cuba. Santiago still the "Port of entry". Mrs Kennan came with letter from Mr. K. - There was prospect of trouble and derision in the NY relief com. do not agree among themselves do not trust us he says - The ladies ask to be admitted, and the com I gather, oppose. Mrs K had seen the Porters and Mrs. Porter would go to Key West Mrs Electa Smith sent for reply to letter of Capt Castle of 6 auditers office in regard to the sending of Dr Bissell of St Paul to the [Wisconsin?] regements at Manilla. I had not known how to answer. having no power A second messenger got a reply that as far as I could say she could go - but must bear her own expenses. Mr Knight called to introduce his hand of unfermented non alcoholic wine. - C.B. looks up the records and prepares to take them this us to be copied in the 55 large books. Dr H. goes to town to see after telegrams that may have come - Mr Briggs has finished to type write the matter for the History. I decided to put in the Report of the Port Royal field from our Report to the Vienna Conference this will make a clear record to date We have a serious search for our boxes of books. find them in upper vault - get them out of boxes on to shelves in the Vault. Barker is very weak, but patient & cheerful. no word of complaint. his "right-smart" is so pitiful. - Elder is still in the country working with Parks - Mrs. Kennan sends up by messenger two dispatches from Mr K. he says that some one quite strange will be sent to camp Alger to take charge. That "Mr. Warner may assist." I had previously given my opinion and of course could not withdraw. but can be still and wait developments - 56 1898 Washington - Glen Echo Saturday June 11. 1898 Wash. G.E. 57 Sunday June 12 Get up very early to get to Mrs K. to meet Dr Gill at 9 oclock. and go to Camp Alger. Dr H Mrs K & CB set out in carriage. met Dr Gill, drive back & took him with us to Camp, dusty ten mile drive. Commander General Graham pleasant - Medical Director - Dr Gerrard a Swiss - No women wanted in Camp but everything else wanted that woman had a mind to send. not pleased with the director. but a good Camp Mr Warner will have a little to do to set his face at work at that camp. I take list of wants. we go home at 6. Dr Gill goes out to stay at G.E no one there to get supper, we get it & straighten out as well as we can - Emma has a sick baby - something as Must go to town again early to speak with N.Y. 58 Wash. GE. 1898 Monday June 13 Breakfast slow - all slow - as we were leaving a letter came from Talcott Williams to the Treasurer of the Natl Red Cross Wanting to be supplied with the accounts of the receipts & expenditures of the N. R C for the last three years - C.B. dictated reply at once. for Dr Hubble to write & sign. sending Armenian Report and referring him to [Review?] of [Reviews?] The reply left the house in twenty minutes after the inquery came - We went to town, very late - Must get all things ready to go tomorrow at 11 15. Southern [Recal?] Went to see Mrs Porter - she goes Went to call on Judge Day at Office - he is unchanged 1898 Wash. to Tampa - En route Tuesday June 14 Left Glen Echo 9. AM. for train southern route to Jack. & Tampa - Penn Station Company. Mrs Sec Porter. Mr Geo Kennan Rev. Dr. Kent - Dr J B Hubbell. Clara Barton passes over entire [roads?] Mr Kennan had come from NY at night had succeeded with the committees in N.Y. Mr Cobb stays to secure the boats and will come on one of them from N.Y. Mr Kent will leave at Jacksonville - We are mutually pleased at his going Our days travel was fine. but I had slept so little that I could scarcely hold up - Mr Kennan gave interesting account of N.Y. [doings?] At Wash. met Mr B L Warner at his office - he has his commission, will accept position. Mrs Tanner there. - all interest- Took meals in car. retired early got one nights sleep 60 En route - Jacksonville - 1897 Wednesday June 15 slept late. an accident to another train had delayed us till Jacksonville was doubtful, an effort to hold the Tampa train proved fruitless and we found ourselves booked for a day in Jacksonville - Mr Kennan had brot to me - H. Enver Pacha (General de brigade d état mayor Envoy militaire (de l'Armee Imperiale Ottoman (1705 N. H Avenue) (and his secretary Mr. Henry C Finklestein - This Turkish officer was making observation of our war. I gave him an Armenian Report with which he seemed pleased. We went to hotel Winslow. We had telegraphed to Sec Mayor Jordin a friend of Dr. Gills, and to Mr [Glenmore?] whom we met before both of them met us at the train. We went to the Hotel, dined, and met Genl Lee who placed 2 carriages at our disposal and under escort of Mayor. We went the round of the camps. mainly vols - beautiful location, fine water in greatest abundance. The temper of the troops was excellent, the hospital 61 seemed comfortable, still they said they were in need of many things, which no doubt Dr. Kent will put them in a way to get. here is a chance for the N Y auxiliaries on our return to hotel, met General Lee again - he was especially agreeable to Miss. Porter. We dined, met the Mayor Knight Met Miss Annie Wheeler, daughter of [Hon?] Jos Wheeler, Maj Gen & Me - who wants to go with us. - and Mrs. Blake-Watkins who brot letters from Lady Aberdeen & the Canadian Red + We took train for Port Tampa at 7 - found good accommodations, slept well, until morning weighed anchor at 7 oclock and sailed for Key West once more where we would await orders from the Govt I read a letter from John Morlan who is at Port Tampa. waiting to find something to do Poor fellow, would he like to be on this ship? 62 Port Tampa 1898 Thursday June 16 Up early to get a chance to dress- wrote up diary a little - met our Turkish friends, took breakfast and arr'd at Port Tampa 10 to 11 - Met Dr Egan - & Mr. Cottrell at train Baggage did not come - this made us lose the tide and we had to stay in the harbor till next day- All had gone well; and all seemed harmonious. We assembled on the boat, settled ourselves and waited. no real work was attempted We found here Miss Jennings and Mrs. White of the Chicago Record A Miss Benjamin - magazine writer who is at the Port desired to go with us, but we have to decline keeping a free hotel for Newspaper correspondents 1898 Enroute Port Tampa to Key West on board S S State of Texas - 63 Friday June 17. Beautiful day - sea like a pond sail at 7 am- C.B. cleared up some of the waiting matter with the help of Miss Graves. it seems a great rest to get once more to a real clerk - Enola has one of her headaches and has to keep her bed. Mrs. Porter writes a reply to the Station Red Cross - I am glad of her knowledge of French - We have no knowledge of the course of the troops and transports We have on board the agent of the Post Office money order Dept to be established in Cuba - he had missed his connection and goes with us - Enroute Port Tampa to Key West 1898 64 Saturday June 18 Another perfect morning - no sea on reached Key West after lunch, not much work done. men went ashore for news -letters sent to Tampa. Telegrams here - 2 from Warner "Had we better commence local Red + work here to get contributions and supplies 2 will get matters straightened out soon - Do you want a good woman for "nurse, strong and healthy with medical "education: will pay her way down B.H Warner 3 June 17 N.Y. Wardwell com. now ask that they may appoint clerk as cashier to supervise expenditure in field and keep our books. Cobb and myself emphatically 'refuse any act embodying such expression 'of suspicion and lack of "confidence. What is your decision? "Auxiliary ready and anxious to work "direct with us Barton" Later on we sent the following - 65 in effect -Meat ready. Shall [we] take on tomorrow. cost about $1200, on whom shall we draw" Barton (Clara At one o clock in the night comes "the following "Draw on committee= "Shall we remit five thousand? "Send us financial statements to "June fifteenth" Barton" (Steve) Held counsel with Mr. Kennan and decide to stand firm by Steve & Cobb - and ourselves. We cannot consent to such apparent confession of inability or lack of integrity. our replies will convey this decision. Mr. Kennan calls on General Reemie on the naval Hq ship to tell him of our intention of leaving for the fleet. he approves - says go to Santiago and report to Sampson- Other dispatches came to Kennan & Mrs. Porter - Mrs P will leave us when we go on, we regret her going- Mr. White came and took his wife ashore this P.M. 66 1898 Sunday Jun 19. Bright-clear, not hot,- Thought to go ashore and show the distributions to Mrs. Porter - arranged it with staff - were left in town with no boat in sight till 2 p.m. Went to cemetery where the Main men are buried. Ship taken up alongside prize ships and 20 tons jerked beef taken on Visited distribution to send following telegram "Barton - 3.W.S.N. "Feeding fifteen hundred destitute Cubans "here: have only ten days food left. If committee "designs continue work here it should authorize "Hyatt beg jerked beef from Marshall [Horr?] at "3 and fraction cents. Nothing better or cheaper can be had Consult Cobb - Barton Also "Barton 3. W.S.N. Emphatically endure "your position in reference to supervision cannot "entertain any proposition savoring of "suspicion if insisted on refuse cooperation "with committee Barton Telegram from Mr. Kennan to Mr. Wardwell as follows - 67 William J. Wardwell Office Standard Oil Co 26 Broadway NY Telegrams from you and Speyer seem indicate that committee lacks confidence in our integrity. Doubt whether we can work together with such stale feeling If committee has more trust in some other organization let it drop our name and arrange for amicable reparation. We are deeply 'grateful for moral support and aid it has given us but do not ask it to compromise itself by association with organization that it distrusts. Will write more fully. Leave for Cuba tomorrow Also B.H. Warner Washington No objection to working raise supplies if needed. Have no need of nurse. Will leave Key West tomorrow Barton 68 Also Pierson War Department Washington Leave here tomorrow - follow fleet. Please tell Briggs Barton We had thought to get off at day break but so many matters remained that we decided to remain - take the ship up to the dock and finish up in the morning before leaving. The mail that had been sent to Tampa, came back but C.B. was too sleepy to go over it and it remained unread. Comodore Reamy had called while we were in town Dr. Lesser & Bettina came on the Mascot - at evening - Mrs Porter who was going to the shore tonight stayed over till morning 1898 Off for fleet & Cuba 69 Monday June 20 Clear, bright, warm day The meat that had been put on board yesterday had to be settled for and the men went ashore to see the Marshal, who in turn came on board bringing with him Surgeon Daly of the Staff of Genl Miles - who felt it his duty to inform me that we would not be safe - that we would have no protection as we were not complying with the military regulations. That our ship should be white with a red "Strake" about it he called for a copy of the regulations that he could read them to me to let me know what the law was - we could furnish him no copy in English but gave him a large copy in French which he did not read to me, but I did to him and 70 asked who we would be in danger from? That we were all of us out of law with all the nations of the world but Spain & France, that none of us were legal except by a special agreement between us and Spain. and that I would like to find ourselves in Spanish hands for they would respect the Red cross; He suggested that our ship be painted white, but I informed him that it was a chartered ship and we had no right to change it - and on the whole proceded to tell them how it came to pass that they had the power to have a hospital ship with any "stroke" he took it on and we settled into most amicable relations. He is of Pittsburg - he decided to have a transport sent to take Miss Wheeler over to me & Miss Phipps of Pittsburg when Genl Miles returned 71 The next question was the taking of Mr Warner with us I decided yes. and he goes then. The Post Office offer Then a seaman from the St Louis who wants to get to his ship Then Mrs. White of the Chicago Record - This made up our party. Mrs. Porter went ashore and finally the whistle blew and we moved on amid [chees?]. craving hats and [slippery?] [flages?] Later we removed an office room to the center of the ship and commenced our correspondence in earnest. Miss Graves & Mr Cottrell both helping [in] [crossout]. 72 on ship- Tuesday June 21 1898 Still clear and warm Wrote all day commencing with the mail we had taken on board unopened. next the recent letters brought from Washington there fully unopened We found our new offices a great relief - cooler, light steady. Before bedtime we commenced to round the point of the island The sea grew rough. We sat out in the dark & the wind a little while I went again to my table and wrote until I became aware that all was not right - went to my room got out of my wet clothing and on to my bed, Bub came and helped me to straighten out - settled me a little with soda & water and I went through the night as one must a rolling pitching night at sea. 1898 On board State of Texas, round west point of Cuba 73 Wednesday June 22 I believe I have the correct date for I am writing up from memory as there has been at least one day in which I could not have kept a record it would have saved the story of a life - and yet the time seems so long to look back to that it seems like 3 or 4 days rather than one. Perfectly ill, helpless, wet, could not lift my head from the soppy pillow, even to change it - the pillow I mean I didn't try to change the head, it would not have been marketable. 74 Southern coast of Cuba 1898 Thursday June 23 The storm abated - more calm The people began to stir about, poor sick Nola got up and came to look after me. I began to look after myself and got up, removed myself to the new office laid down on the settee, with a couple of pillows, sat Lucy Graves on the floor beside me and dictated letters till 8 o clock at night - only once raising up; ate a slice of toast bread and half a cantelope - we have an astonishing pile of dictation ready for the type writer All on board struggled up. the only [few?] who I think were not affected were Warner Bangs & Sister Anna who acted all day as stewardess 1898 Southern coast of Cuba 75 SS Ship State of Texas Friday June 24. The sea calm - a little swell, just enough to unfit poor sailors for business. All up but Bettina who remains very sick. The Dr. is little better. I get out to my table early and commence dictation and continue till 3 PM. when we are all set in commotion by the appearance of an armed ship approaching. She came in near distance; hailed we ran up our flag. She dipped hers and turned away, leaving us as calm as before - we have now no knowledge of the doings of the world for nearly a week - I leave off dictation and Lucy commences to put in type the mass she already has & We are now skirting the land all the way and most wild and picturesque it is. One can see how impossible it will be for the Spanish ever to drive the insurgents out of these hills An army can grow its substance, feed & sustain itself and fight on to the end of time I go to bed rather early but cannot go to sleep - I think over a great deal and conclude that things have happened well Some good has come, some lives better ++ 76 Santiago & on to Saturday June 25 1898 This morning found us among the fleet at Santiago. All the ships [?] Mc Dowell celebrated by catching a shark Mr Kenman called on Ad Sampson (N.Y. who's says the landing made by the Marines at Guantamo is held, that they are firmly on land, and have had some fighting The Solace is there, - thinks we had as well go there as the most active point, we consult, and leave abt ten am The run is abt 40 miles which we are to make by dinner. I take in for the first time a couple of hours of the charming scenery the sea is smoothe, we turn in to the harbor of Guantanamo about- 6 am, a fine harbor deep, protected on three sides. The camp of the landed marines of the Panther and a small camp of Cubans are on our right. Genl McCalla sent compliments and a launch telling us where to anchor between the Haitian & Marblehead At 8 we were grateful by a call from the Commander of the Solace-Com 77 A Dunlap. who came to pay his early respects. staid long, was most cordial, and ended by offering to send his fine launch at 10 tomorrow to take us all to visit the Solace and its 50 wounded men. This was a courtesy that- I knew well how to appreciate. Mr Kennan called on Capt. Mc Callain charge of the fleet, who will call on us tomorrow. We hear of more sad results of the encounter of the Rough Riders on Friday than had been [ref???] by Ad. Sampson - who had probably not learned all when he saw Mr Kennan We decide to call on the camp tomorrow, after the Solace, and see if we find a way after to reach the destitute We push on our letters, get them as well ready as possible but do not get them off, preferring to wait a more certain route than Jamaca. We have with us the new post master Louis Kempner - all slept well 78 State of Texas - Guantanamo harbor and off for the wounded Sunday, June 26, 1898 The morning fine, all dressed for the visit to the Solus. Breakfast A call from Dr. Gardner surg [surgeon] Dolphin and the paymaster - came to borrow ligatures - got them of Dr. Lerrer a very large Boston man. The launch of the Solus comes. we all go. it returns to take a second party - 23 of us and a goodly company I was proud of my staff. The ship was all that could be desired large, clean, roomy, airy. The patients as well as they could be made at home - The four men nurses wore their brassards, standing beside the tables in the operating room. I introduced them to the young ladies and spoke with them of the old war we went fully over the ship and left with a feeling of the deepest gratitude that I had been permitted to live to see the fruition of the work I had so cherished We came back to the ship to 79 get our mail ready to send by the new P.M. who would go to the scene of the Friday's fighting. The launch of the Sun & Journal were to take him and our 80 letters to mail: found that the reporter who had been in the battle and lost a comrade were in the launch sent for him, found that Young Hamilton Fish and c. Capen had been killed that the wounded were not cared for that help was needed, called a crime of war, and decided to draw out at once and steam for the port, wherever it was The Capt [captain] took his orders. The men went to the hold of the ship to get out supplies Medical, we lunched and rounded out of the bay at 1 1/2 P.M. All have get into working dress, all ready for whatever may be needed. It is the Rough Riders we go to and the relief may be also rough but it will be ready. A better body of helpers could scarcely be gotten together. 80 Monday June 27. see type written diary 81 Tuesday June 28 see type written diary 82 Wednesday June 29 see type written diary by Miss Gares 83 Thursday June 30 see type written diary by Miss Gares 84 to be added to diary 1898 Friday July 1 Cooler not quite light, Mr. Kennan returned from San Antonio passing the fortifications. & saw the preparations for an attack He found that quarantine cut us off from unloading there. and it looked as if we might get them in at Santiago soon. We wired Sec Long, asking him to tell the President. The distributions we were making. Thought to go to Guantanamo tonight and leave 50000 rations with Capt McCalla and return Sat. The battle ships drew up before the long line of green about 4 miles from us, and from the point that ran out into the bay there seemed something to call attention The gun boats sent out volleys of smoke, and the attack was on We steamed up to bay towards Santiago and witnessed it 85 in an hour or so the firing ceased The forts seemed demolished We returned to our quarters and anchored. Sent off despatches - Sec Long. Capt McCalla. SEB for nurses - some 12, with "beds" Then the boat came back from the shore - bringing the news of a fearful fight - and thousands killed and wounded - 4000 it was said. We allowed one half for exaggeration. All hands went over equipped for work They tell us the men are lying all over the ground for 3 miles - at the front - that we are within a mile of Santiago & will take it tomorrow. At midnight the boats came back for cots - we sent 100. All went but Nola Miss Graves, Miss Jennings, Cottrell & myself. I am not quite well and must not venture 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 congratulations to both. best wishes Happy life - Bon voyage tender adieu goodest night. 200 Transcribed and reviewed by volunteers participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.