Proceedings of the first Independence congress : held in the city of Manila, Philippine islands, February 22-26, 1930 / Published under the direction of Dean maximo M. Kalaw, executive secretary, University of the Philippines.

228 INDEPENDENCE CONGRESS PROCEEDINGS

American Officers, who before the outbreak of hostilities, implored
them to lend their aid and valuable support.
The Filipino Army is regularly constituted, has a formal organization and fights as a united body, and consequently cannot be considered as mere bands of guerrillas. Under such conditions they
deserve the consideration and privileges that are everywhere accorded
to a legitimately constituted army.
Again, you are aware that General Aguinaldo and his government are de facto a power recognized and obeyed by every Filipino,
and maintain an orderly and regular civil administration in all the
islands, except within the limits of the cities of Manila and Cavite,
which are under American control. This position will justify your
act if you consent to my request. We are only asking for justice and
a fulfilment of the promises which we were led to understand were
made in your name and in that of your great nation.
Your Excellency, the first Magistrate of a mighty Republic, with
such well merited fame of being just, must be generous and magnanimous with a people who, at the first call, have shed their blood
in defense of American interests.
Our unimpeachable deeds entitle us to your consideration and
protection, and I have such complete confidence in your conscientious
judgment that I cannot but rely on you, and I therefore reiterate to
your Excellency my most earnest request for justice, peace and everlasting friendship.
I am, Your Excellency,
Your most obedient servant,
FELIPE AGONCILLO.
Paris, Dec. 13, 1898.
Senator Hoar
Capitol, Washington, D. C.
Filipinos everywhere congratulate you thank you. Hail best
noble efforts against military rule colonial expansion. We want
American alliance citizenship not subjugation, beg you oppose military
occupation.
AGONCILLO.
FILIPINO REPUBLICAN COMMITTEE OF PARIS
Paris, December 14, 1898.
The President of the Extraordinary
Delegation of the Philippine Government.
The President of the Republic, by cablegram of 3rd instant, states
to this committee the following: "Cortazar-Paris-Reference tele