The Times thought it very remarkable that the New York newspapers discovered on the same day that the United States were bound to put themselves in the best possible position for defending the common interests of themselves and Great Britain in China. It concluded:
"Providence in the nick of time has given them the Philippines."
The armistice proclamation was followed at once by orders from the War Department to the several commanding generals in the field directing that all military operations be suspended.
This was the text of the message to General Miles:
"Adjutant-General's Office,
Washington, Aug. 12, 1898.
"Major-General Miles, Ponce, Porto Rico:
"The President directs that all military operations against the enemy be suspended. Peace negotiations are nearing completion, a protocol having just been signed by representatives of the two countries. You will inform the commander of the Spanish forces in Porto Rico of these instructions. Further orders will follow. Acknowledge receipt.
"By order Secretary of War.
"H. C. Corbin, Adjutant-General."
These orders, coming as they did, undoubtedly prevented the sacrifice of many valuable lives before San Juan. But they were anything but popular among the American troops, for they reached the various divisions just as each was about to strike a decisive blow.
The Spaniards, however, it is said, received the news with loud manifestations of delight.