The Cuban Question and the Prospect of Autonomy

A writer in the New Century Review, discussing the subject from a thoroughly pro-Spanish standpoint, entertains great hope of the early settlement of the Cuban trouble. He pays a compliment to the patriotism of the Spanish people and, unlike other writers, seems to have no fear for the solvency of the Government, but he thinks "the inference is reasonable that a prospect exists of some system of autonomy in Cuba, such as will save Spanish honor, satisfy American sentiment and bring to an end the prolonged strife that is ruining all industries in the island."

The writer appears to speak with authority, and we may hope that he has good reason to predict the settlement of the conflict. It would be much easier to arrange terms of peace if the Spanish Government were to take the initiative than it will be if our Government is placed in the position of forcing Spain to give way. To this we may come eventually, for, as the most conservative men in the present administration see as clearly as Mr. Cleveland's advisers saw more than a year ago, the insurrection cannot be permitted to go on for many months. It has degenerated to a mere succession of skirmishes that can be prolonged indefinitely by the combatants, and if the Spanish Government does not end it by formulating a plan suited to the wishes of the people of Cuba our Government must.