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| Commanding General Nelson Miles. |
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| Russel A. Alger. |
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| Commissary General Charles Eagan. |
Cortland Evening Standard, Saturday, December 29, 1900.
ALGER DEFENDS EAGAN.
Inside History of the "Embalmed Beef" Scandal.
GEN. MILES BITTERLY ASSAILED.
Former Secretary of War Says Charges Made by Miles Were Not Based on Fact And Caused the Removal of an Honest, Capable Official.
NEW YORK, Dec. 29.—The North American Review in its next issue will contain an article on "The Food of the Army During the Spanish War," by Former Secretary of War Russell A. Alger. The article says in part:
"The commission appointed by the president at my request to investigate the conduct of the war department in the war with Spain, commonly known as commission, met on the 29th day of December, 1898. On the 21st day of December the major general commanding the army of the United States appeared before the commission.
"General Miles refused to be sworn or affirmed as every other of the 495 witnesses had been, declaring in substance that he 'would make his statements without being sworn and was responsible for what he said.'
''Although the commission had been sitting for nearly three months the charges with respect to canned and refrigerated beef were now made for the first time; and stranger and more inexcusable and more unsoldierly still, during all those months, with this pretended knowledge of facts which, if they existed, should have been made known to the secretary of war for the protection of the army—General Miles never mentioned the subject. Nor did I ever hear a rumor of chemically-treated beef being purchased for the army until the general's testimony was given before the commission.
"Upon Commissary General Charles P. Eagan the charges fell with the suddenness and sharpness of a blow from an assassin's knife out of the dark.
"The allegation that I had inspired or had any knowledge of General Eagan's intended attack upon the statement of General Miles is absolutely untrue.
"The language of General Eagan could not be overlooked. He was tried by court martial for conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman and for conduct to the prejudice of good order and military discipline. Of these charges and specifications, he was found guilty and recommended to be dismissed from the service. The sentence of the court, however, was commuted to suspension from rank and duty for six years until his retirement.
"The suspension of General Eagan from the functions of his office until his retirement stripped the service of an honest and able officer. His court martial was not the outcome of General Miles' charges, but the result of intemperate and unmilitary language conceived in an indignation pardonable, perhaps, in its existence, but unpardonable in its mode of expression.
"The allegations of General Miles that canned fresh beef was not a part of the army ration and that it was issued as the 'pretense of an experiment' were not only contrary to fact, but were made absolutely without a particle of evidence or excuse.
Not Even Honest In Making Charges.
"If we are to believe written evidence to the contrary, it does not appear that General Miles was even honest in making his dilatory charges that the tinned beef was issued as the pretense of an experiment and that it was not a part of the ration.
"On the 17th of June, 1898, his most confidential staff officer signed a letter by 'direction of the major general commanding the army' instructing the depot commissary at Tampa to furnish to General Nunez 10,644 pounds of canned roast beef, to be issued from the 'subsistence stores of the army.' If we are to accept the reading of this letter as correct, it proves that General Miles knew that canned fresh beef was a part of the ration; that he knew there was a large quantity of it at Tampa for issue to the troops, and that he so far approved of its use as to direct that the ration be furnished in large quantities to our allies.
"It was never intended by the commissary department that canned beef should be used other than as an emergency or travel ration.
"Fresh canned beef was preferable over corned canned beef because of the fact that the salt in the latter produced a thirst, a decided objection in a tropical country; but the tinned beef should have been used only when cooked with vegetables and properly seasoned. In this statement lies the secret of the source of complaint against canned fresh beef.
"The ration was not used to any great extent in the camps in the United States, but only on the transports to Cuba and Porto Rico and for a short time in Cuba by part of Shafter's army in the trenches, where objection to its use could also be raised on account of the inability to cook and serve it suitably. A few issues were also made in Porto Rico. And yet, despite the improper preparation of the food, owing to unavoidable circumstances resulting from military necessity, no complaint of its unpalatability reached the war department.
"After the charges made by General Miles, the most expert and scientific men in the country were therefore employed by the government to further the investigation.
"The court of inquiry visited several of the large packing houses, accompanied by Dr. Bigelow. The results of personal examinations and of the investigations of the experts employed, conclusively showed that there was not one jot or title of evidence or excuse for the statement that canned fresh beef was the pulp after the beef extract had been removed.
"The imputation with respect to canned fresh beef were most carefully and thoroughly examined and reported upon by two impartial tribunals, one being composed of eminent citizens, ex-soldiers and a distinguished general officer of the regular army (I refer to the war investigation commission); the other, the court of inquiry, consisting wholly of officers of the regular army of high rank and unimpeachable integrity, especially assembled to investigate this question. There was no subject to which the Dodge commission devoted more time or more thoroughly investigated than the assertions of the senior major general of the army.
Charges Without Foundation.
"What did these tribunals find? That there was no foundation for the charge that canned fresh beef was not a part of the ration or that it had been furnished as the pretense of experiment or that it was the pulp from beef.
"General Miles arrived at Tampa on June 1 for the purpose of rendering such assistance to the commanding general of the Santiago expedition as his military experience and high rank could give. If General Miles did not look into the question of food for the Santiago expedition he was as culpable as though he had failed to inspect all other important matters. Besides finding that canned fresh beef was unsuitable when not cooked with vegetables the court of inquiry also expressed the opinion that the purchase of 7,000,000 rations by the commissary general during the first two months of the war with Spain, was a 'colossal error' for which there is no palliation. This, of course, is a question for judgment as between the court of inquiry and General Eagan.
"General Miles' charges with respect to refrigerated beef were much more serious than his imputations regarding canned beef. His allegations, in substance, were that the beef furnished the army had been artificially preserved by injecting into it chemicals which were injurious to health; that he had overwhelming proof that this 'embalmed beef' had been treated with chemicals.
"As a matter of fact, the inventor of the Powell process of treating meat swore that the beef exhibited by him at Tampa was treated by fumigation, and that neither boric nor salicylic acid was used at all in the operation. Dr. Daly made himself further ridiculous in his letter to General Miles by referring to the taste and smell of decomposed boric acid in the meat condemned by the board on the 'Panama.' Scientific evidence was submitted to the effect that boric acid does not decompose when used as a meat preservative and that it has neither taste nor odor.
"The allegation that the food furnished the army was the cause of much sickness seems to have been as little investigated or to have had as little warrant for its utterance as the other disproved charges."
In conclusion, ex-Secretary Alger says:
"While the allegations of General Miles were not based upon fact and were conclusively disproven by two separate tribunals unimpeachable in their composition and methods of investigation, the irreparable damage had been done. A brave, honest and faithful officer, suffering under the lash of such cruel, unwarranted and unjustified imputations, while exonerated from the heavy odium of those charges was, as a result of them, sacrificed on the altar of his own passion, righteous in its existence, but inexcusable in its expression. Besides this, a false impression had been created throughout the country as to the food furnished the army which may never be removed. The charges of General Miles, twice proven false in spirit and substance, are therefore the more heinous in their effect. Yet the present congress promoted General Miles to be lieutenant general and has thus far failed to give to General Shafter the rank of major general to retire upon in his old age and this, after his magnificent campaign at Santiago, as well as his former distinguished services."
VERDICT AGAINST NURSES.
Jury Finds Hilliard's Death Was Due to Injuries Received at Bellevue.
NEW YORK, Dec. 29.-The jury in the inquest into the cause of the death of Louis H. Hilliard last night rendered a verdict declaring that he had come to his death from asphyxiation and fractured ribs, caused by Jessie R. Davis, Edward O. Dean and Clinton L. Marshall.
The jury also censured the Bellevue hospital authorities for laxity of methods.
Despite the protests of Assistant District Attorney McIntyre, Davis, Dean and Marshall were released in $5,000 bail each.
PAGE FOUR—EDITORIALS.
Twentieth Century Motive Power.
What will be the motive power of the twentieth century is one of the questions being asked at this time, when we are passing the century mark. So marvelous have been the developments in steam and electricity during the past 100 years that we may look for still more marvelous developments in the next hundred. No one can foretell to what extent human ingenuity may compel the forces of nature to do the work of man. Wave power and sun power are forces which may yet be utilized in turning the wheels of industry and supplying the propulsive energy of commerce.
The wave power inventor is at work and seems almost to have solved the problem of making the sea do the world's work.
Some day this great invention is likely to be perfected, and then it will be in order to see a transformation of our seashores into continuous machine shops. There is no doubt that power derived from such a source would be much cheaper than that derived from fuel. The fuel problem is not yet pressing, but if industries multiply in the coming century at the ratio that has prevailed during the closing century the generation of 100 years hence may sorely feel the pressure of this need. Increased use of cataract water power, such as at Niagara, has served somewhat to check the development of this crisis, and doubtless in the course of a few decades the water power will be utilized to the limit now dreamed of by enterprising promoters.
The sun power inventor is also at work, hoping to transform the sun's energy into a mundane motive force. In the light of past developments no one need marvel if the sun and the sea shall furnish the motive power of the twentieth century.
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| Edwin H. Conger. |
Conger to Resign.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 29— Friends of Minister Conger intimate that he will shortly resign his position as the diplomatic representative of the United States at the Chinese capital. They say he feels acutely the criticisms that have been made by the state department regarding his conduct of the negotiations during the preparation of the note containing the demands of the powers upon China.
Death of Prof. Tyler.
Prof. Moses Coit Tyler, head of the department of American history in Cornell university, died at his home in Ithaca yesterday after an illness of some weeks from cystitis. His age was 65 years. Prof. Tyler has several times preached in the Grace church in Cortland and was well known here. His death will be a great loss to the educational world.
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| Samuel N. Holden. |
COMMON COUNCIL
Holds a Brief Meeting—Audits Bills and Accepts Bonds of Constables.
A regular meeting of the common council of the city of Cortland, N. Y., was held at the office of the city clerk of said city on the 28th day of Dec., 1900, at 7:30 P. M. There were present, Samuel N. Holden, Mayor, and A. E. Buck, Wm. G. McKinney and E. D. Wood, aldermen.
On motion of Mr. Buck, seconded by Mr. Wood and declared carried:
Resolved, That the clerk of this board have authority and direction to draw further orders on the chamberlain of this city in the aggregate amount of $229.16 pursuant to and in favor of the respective persons and in the respective amount specified and certified by the board of supervisors of Cortland county to this board on Dec. 12, 1900, duly filed, being this city's share and portion of accounts against the former town of Cortlandville, as shown by schedule thereto annexed, and being in addition to the sum of $2,622.08, heretofore audited, and that the same be drawn on the general city fund by order dated Dec. 20, 1900, and payable on or after Feb. 20, 1901.
The following bills were allowed and ordered paid:
Day Baker, expenses to Syracuse $4.89
Clark & Angell, poor audit, 4.82
Police payroll, 185.00 [monthly]
The official bonds of A. Goldsmith and Jas. E. Edwards, city constables, each in the penal sum of $1,000, with C. W. Stoker and Henry A. Dickinson as sureties on the former, and John Miller and R. Bruce Smith on the latter, were presented, and, on motion of Mr. McKinney, seconded by Mr. Wood, and declared carried:
Resolved, That each of the same be approved by this board and placed on file.
On motion, the meeting adjourned.
Approved Dec. 28, 1900, SAMUEL N. HOLDEN, Mayor.
The Dog Helped Out.
Late yesterday afternoon a stranger was leading a very tired cow along Main-st., Cortland, when about opposite Clayton-ave. the animal slipped and fell. She seemed not at all anxious to regain her footing, so the large crowd of men who gathered about took a hand in helping her up. The efforts, however, were not appreciated by the animal, and so were without avail and she was left alone in the street. Very soon a small dog ventured out toward her, and the cow arose, much to the satisfaction of the owner.
To Move to Cuyler.
Mr. Mills G. Frisbie has purchased from Whitmarsh Bros. of Cuyler the mill property at that place owned by them and will take possession Feb. 1. Mr. Frisbie will move his family to Cuyler about the 1st of March and will give his personal attention to the business of the mill. He has rented his farm in Scott, where he now lives, to Mr. Clarence Patchen of Homer, who will take possession March 1.
THE CHARITY BALL.
GRAND SUCCESS AND BRILLIANT SOCIETY EVENT.
Taylor Hall was Filled with Dancers—Floor was Perfect—Beautiful Display of Costumes—Handsome Decorations—Excellent Music—Those Who Were There.
The charity ball for the benefit of the Cortland hospital, which from every point of view was expected to be the most brilliant society function of the winter, occurred last night in Taylor hall, and was a most enjoyable as well as successful affair. There were perhaps not as many dancers as had been anticipated, but the floor was comfortably full, probably about eighty taking part in some of the dances, while many holders of floor tickets sat as spectators either in the seats reserved for them along the walls or in the gallery. A considerable number of tickets were purchased by those who were unable to attend, but who wanted to help the good cause along. So that altogether the management feels that the ball was a success from the financial point of view.
The decorations were very beautiful and made the bare old hall look highly attractive. Flags formed a leading feature and these were arranged in artistic manner, while holly gave a suggestion as to the season. The stage upon which was seated Daniels' orchestra of eight pieces was heavily banked with palms. Incandescent lights of the red, white and blue colors added materially to the pretty effect. The wiring for the electric lighting was all done by Harold Gillette and Hugh Duffey, Jr., who proved very efficient in their assistance to the committee on decorations.
The new floor recently put down by Mr. Mallory was tried for the first time and when waxed proved a delight to all the dancers. It was as nearly perfect as a floor could well be.
The music was the best that Daniels' full orchestra could provide, and was eminently satisfactory to all. This well known leader has many admirers all through this vicinity who think that his assistance is the one thing needful to make a dance a success. Mr. Daniels contributed his services to the hospital absolutely free and nearly all of his men gave half of their services for the benefit of the cause.
About 9 o'clock the people began to assemble and soon after that hour the orchestra began its preliminary concert. It was about 9:30 when the opening two-step was begun and the graceful dancers began to fill the floor. There were sixteen dances upon the program, of which seven were two-steps and five waltzes. Many of these were encored and repeated, and eight extras were also added to the program, so that altogether it was 3 o'clock before the ball was over.
At about midnight a fine supper was served at the Candy Kitchen by Rood & Co.
[A long list of those in costumes and their identities, as well as identities of those who purchased tickets, was not copied from this publication—CC ed.]
Growth of Syracuse University.
Syracuse university has 1,704 students registered in its various departments. The university was opened in 1871 with forty-one students in its one department. Now it has five departments with an increase of 1,663. Last year the number registered was 1,402. This is certainly a wonderful growth, and most of it has been accomplished under the management of Chancellor Day.
Death of Lawson E. McKee.
Mr. Lawson E. McKee died at 3 o'clock this afternoon of typhoid fever at the home of his brother Mr. J. L. McKee, 17 Owego-st. Mr. McKee has been living near the brick schoolhouse until a week ago last Wednesday when he moved his family into the city and on the evening of the same day was taken ill at the home of his brother. Arrangements for the funeral have not yet been completed.
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Death of Robert Purvis.
Mr. Robert Purvis of 19 Union-st., died at his home last night at the age of 75 years, 2 months and 8 days. He had been ill for several weeks. The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock on Monday afternoon at the house. A more extended obituary notice will be given later.
BREVITIES.
—The Christmas music of the morning at the Presbyterian church will be repeated on Sunday morning.
—Grover Corps, No. 96, will hold their meeting Monday, Dec. 31, at 2:30 o'clock, instead of on Tuesday, Jan. 1.
—Edward Colwell, a tramp umbrella mender, was given five days in county jail this morning in police court for public intoxication.
—Voegel & Deming's minstrels gave a fine entertainment last night, but the audience was small on account of the multiplicity of other attractions.
—New display advertisements to-day are—Buck & Lane, Plumbing, etc., page 6; Mitchell & Strowbridge, Meats, etc., page 5; C. F. Brown, Right prices, page 8.
—The band of "The South Before the War" company attracted a crowd today as it paraded at the noon hour. The company plays at the Opera House tonight.
—Midnight mass will be celebrated in St. Mary's church next Monday night, thus ushering in the new century. The choir will repeat the Christmas music on this rare but solemn occasion.
—The annual sunrise prayer-meeting of the Congregational church will be held in the lecture room of the church New Year's morning at 8 o'clock. Entering upon a new century, it is hoped to make this meeting of more than ordinary interest and helpfulness.
—Watch night services will be held at the First M. E. church Monday night beginning at 8:30 o'clock with a praise and prayer-meeting. The Homer-ave. M. E. church will unite with First church in these services, and Rev. H. L. Rixon will preach the sermon at 9 o'clock.
—All Odd Fellows are requested to meet at the Vesta lodge rooms Sunday at 1 P. M., to attend the funeral of Mr. Wallace Gardner. Prayer will be offered at the house, 12 Cleveland-st., at 2 o'clock and the funeral will be held at 2:30 o'clock at the Universalist church, Rev. U. S. Milburn officiating.
—On Tuesday evening (New Year's) there will be an organ-piano recital, with vocal and violin solos, given in the Congregational church. In connection with the music a part of the evening will be given over to a social time. The entertainment is free and all are invited to enjoy the evening with us. The program will be published in The STANDARD on Monday evening.
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