and in a thousand battles which overflow
the pages of history. O Lord, give it us now! Let the nations
see that against the right of might there is the might of right!

To all beloved sons, from our heart We have pleasure in sending
you our pastoral benediction, in the name of the Father, and the
Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen.

Given in our palace in Madrid on the 23rd of April, 1898.

_Jose Ma_
_Archbishop-bishop of Madrid-Alcala_.

This Allocution calls to mind Spain's last struggle with Mexico. Was
it a battle of the saints? The Spaniards relied on Santa Isabel;
the Mexicans appealed to Santa Guadalupe, and the latter came out
victorious.

In Manila, as the critical day approached, Gov.-General Augusti issued
his general order as to special military service and his proclamation
to the Philippine people. The latter is couched in vituperative and
erroneously prophetic language, but both can be better appreciated
from the following translated texts:--

_Special Military Service_

Whereas it is necessary to adopt every possible means for the
defence of this territory and to render assistance to the army
and the fleet in the approaching operations against the United
States of North America, I order:

1. It is hereby declared that a state of war exists.

2. All public functionaries of the State and the municipalities,
not exceeding 50 years of age and not physically unfit, are obliged
to take up arms in defence of the country and serve whenever they
are required. They will proceed, at once, to their offices and
lodge their names and serve under their present chiefs.

3. All Spaniards and sons of Spaniards (although not born in the
Peninsula) above the age of 20 and not more than 50, living in
the Provinces, are also hereby required to take up arms.

4. All those not comprised in the foregoing are at liberty to
serve as Volunteers.

(_a_) All native Spaniards who are not employed in the
public offices.

(_b_) All those who are under 20 and more than 50 years of age,
and who are strong enough to endure the fatigue of a campaign.

(_c_) All foreigners (except North Americans) who are domiciled
in Manila or in the capitals of the Provinces.

5. The General Sub-Inspector will organize these Volunteers,
and distribute them as required for defensive purposes.

6. Public f