“Just previous to his departure, I had a second and last interview with General Aguinaldo, the particulars of which I shall give you by next mail.
“The general impressed me as a man of intelligence, ability, and courage, and worthy the confidence that had been placed in him.
“I think that in arranging for his direct cooperation with the commander of our forces, I have prevented possible conflict of action and facilitated the work of occupying and administering the Philippines.
“If this course of mine meets with the Government’s approval, as I trust it may, I shall be fully satisfied; to Mr. Bray, however, I consider there is due some special recognition for most valuable services rendered.
“How that recognition can best be made I leave to you to decide.
“I have, etc.”[15]
It will be noted that Pratt explained to Aguinaldo that he had no authority to speak for the government; that there was no mention in the cablegrams between Pratt and Dewey of independence or indeed of any conditions on which Aguinaldo was to coöperate, these details being left for future arrangement with Dewey; and that Pratt thought that he had prevented possible conflict of action and facilitated the work of occupying and administering the Philippines.
The particulars as to the second and last interview between Aguinaldo and Pratt were embodied in the following letter:—
“No. 213. Consulate-General of the United States.
“Singapore, April 30, 1898.