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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Major General Nelson A. Miles to Rear Admiral William T. Sampson, Commander, North Atlantic Fleet

Headquarters of the Army,

On board U. S. S. Yale – Off Siboney [Cuba].

July 16, 1898.

Sir:

     There appears to be a little delay in the full surrender of the Santiago garrison, which I attribute more to the formalities than anything else. There can be no doubt of the purpose of the Spanish to surrender. They did so, in fact, in a formal, positive manner. The terms of capitulation were agreed to, and have been signed by the Commissioners of both Armies.1 At the request of the Spanish officials delay has been granted until they can hear from Madrid, which they seem positive will bring confirmation of their action. I hope the desired result will soon be a matter of fact, and am glad that the Navy has been able to contribute such an important part.

     A copy of the agreement of capitulation signed by the Commissioners is herewith enclosed for your information.2

Very respectfully,          

Nelson A. Miles

      Major General Commanding

 ( 1 Enclosure )3

Source Note: TDS, DNA, AFNRC, M625, roll 235. Address open: “Admiral Sampson, Commanding U. S. Naval Forces in Cuba Water.” Stamp in right-hand corner on Headquarters of the Army stationery: “RECEIVED/FLAG-SHIP N. A. STATION/JUL 16 1898.”

Footnote 1: The commissioners were: Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, Maj. Gen. Henry W. Lawton, Lt. John D. Miley, Brig. Gen. Frederico Escario, and Lt. Col. Ventura Fontan.

Footnote 3: The enclosure was not included with the document.

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