Besides, I hope that you will allow the troops to enter because we have given proofs many times of our friendship, ceding our positions at Paranaque, Pasay, Singalon and Maytubig.

Nevertheless, if it seems best to you, and in order to enter into a frank and friendly understanding and avoid any disagreeable conflict before the eyes of the Spaniards, I will commission Don Felipe Buencamino and others, who will to-day go out from our lines and hold a conference with you, and that they will be safe during the conference." [160] Aguinaldo and his associates pressed the demand for joint occupation.

On August 13 Admiral Dewey and General Merritt informed the government that since the occupation of Manila and its suburbs the Insurgents outside had been insisting on this, and asked how far they might proceed in enforcing obedience in the matter.
They were informed by a telegram dated August 17 that the President of the United States had directed:-- "That there must be no joint occupation with the Insurgents.

The United States in the possession of Manila city, Manila bay and harbor must preserve the peace and protect persons and property within the territory occupied by their military and naval forces.

The insurgents and all others must recognize the military occupation and authority of the United States and the cessation of hostilities proclaimed by the President.