I assure the United States of the allegiance and unquestioning support of our people, and petition that we be granted one or more representatives on the commission that is to decide the future of our Islands." [65] It would appear, therefore, that the President had more information on this subject than was transmitted by General Anderson! Not only did the latter passively refrain from recognizing Aguinaldo's pretensions, but on July 22, 1898, he wrote to him as follows:-- "I observe that your Excellency has announced yourself Dictator and proclaimed martial law.

As I am here simply in a military capacity, I have no authority to recognize such an assumption.

I have no orders from my government on the subject." [66] The effort to keep Americans in ignorance of the true state of affairs was kept up until further deception was useless.

Consul Williams, for instance, wrote on June 16, 1898:-- "For future advantage, I am maintaining cordial relations with General Aguinaldo, having stipulated submissiveness to our forces when treating for their return here.

Last Sunday, 12th, they held a council to form provisional government.