It saved discussion." [122] This statement is incorrect.

I myself was present the following year when the declaration was read on the Luneta to a considerable gathering of Filipinos among whom were many school children, and it has often been read since.
The landing of American troops at Paranaque and their going into camp near that town on July 15 caused much excitement, and a lively interchange of telegrams between Insurgent officers followed.

[123] They were suspicious of the intentions of the Americans, [124] and trouble soon began.
On July 16 General Noriel telegraphed Aguinaldo as follows:-- "An American has come here who says that he is a Colonel of the Army whom we should obey; and that it is your desire.

We did not listen to him, awaiting your order." On the back of the telegram is written the following:-- "Reply .-- You should not obey.

What this American Colonel says is a lie.