BARRY TO MILLER, JANUARY 21, 1899

HDQRS. DEPT. PACIFIC AND EIGHTH ARMY CORPS
Manila, P. I., January 21, 1899.

The COMMANDING GENERAL,
First Separate Brigade, Eighth Army Corps, Iloilo, Panay.

SIR: I am directed to inform you that there will be sent out to-day by steamer St. Paul to Iloilo a number of discharged native-Spanish troops, to wit, to the number of about 600. These discharged soldiers live in the southern islands, and it is thought that they will give less trouble if landed at Iloilo than if landed at other points. You will therefore please receive them at Iloilo or in the vicinity. The vessel transporting them, with its guard — a company of the First Tennessee Volunteers — will be directed by you to return immediately to this port.

In regard to the collection of duties on merchandise at iloilo, you were informed that your suggestions on that subject, received through Colonel Potter, would be submitted to Washington for decision. They were so submitted, and the following cablegram has been received in response:

"Washington, January 19.
"Otis, Manila:
The President desires no forcible measures to be used for the present in collecting customs duties at Iloilo.
"Corbin."

You will therefore be guided by these instructions, which are in line with those sent you from these headquarters. Matters here remain in a very excited condition, and conflict with the insurgent troops is avoided only by the skillful supervision of officers. Please report the condition of affairs at Iloilo.

Very respectfully, yours,

THOMAS H. BARRY
Assistant Adjutant-General.