The crew have been subjected to a severe examination. Each man has had to make a statement before the court.
The master and mate of the vessel swore that the Silver Heels left New York bound for Wilmington, N.C. Her cargo consisted of one hundred tons of coal designed for sale in Wilmington.
On account of head winds she could not approach the coast, but was buffeted about until a few days ago, when she cast anchor in Wilmington harbor.
The two officers declared that no other cargo than the coal had been on board, and that there had been no passengers.
The collector found the amount of coal in the ship that the master and mate swore was there—and so far everything goes to prove that they have been telling the truth.
The statements of the crew have been sent on to the Government, and the vessel will be kept in custody as long as it is necessary in order that a proper investigation may be made.
After thinking matters over, the Spaniards have decided that President McKinley's Message was not so friendly to them as they at first supposed.
They have arrived at the conclusion that the part of the Message which refers to intervention on our part in case Home Rule does not succeed, is highly offensive to them.
Señor Sagasta is reported to have said that if the United States should try to interfere between Spain and Cuba, Spain would be found ready to protect herself and defend her national honor.