tainly
gratifying and, to some extent, unexpected; and that it is largely due
to the chivalrous character and diplomatic talents which the Sirdar
displayed on that occasion. [Cheers.] I do not wish to be understood as
saying that all causes of controversy are removed by this between the
French Government and ourselves. It is probably not so, and I daresay we
shall have many discussions in the future; but a cause of controversy of
a somewhat acute and dangerous character has been removed and we cannot
but congratulate ourselves upon that. [Cheers.]

I will only say that alike in his patient and quiet forethought, lasting
over three years, in his brilliant strategy on the field of battle, in
his fearless undertaking of responsibility and his contempt of danger,
and last but not least in the kindness and consideration which he
displayed for men who were for a moment in a position of antagonism to
himself--in these things he has shown a combination of the noblest
qualities which distinguish the race to which he belongs and by the
exercise of which the high position of England in this generation in the
world and in her great Empire has been won. [Loud cheers.]

WILLIAM THOMAS SAMPSON

VICTORY IN SUPERIOR NUMBERS

[Speech of Rear-Admiral William T. Sampson at a banquet given in
his honor by citizens of Boston, Mass., February 6, 1899. Hon.
Richard Olney presided on the occasion.]

MR. PRESIDENT AND GENTLEMEN:--I rise to thank you for your most
generous greeting for myself, for my friends, and for all of the Navy
that you have included in the various remarks which have been made. I
want you to understand that I do not take it all to myself, but that
this is divided with all the men; and while with great hesitation I
attempt to make a speech at all, I feel that this is an opportunity
which should not be thrown away. I do not propose to say anything, as
you might expect, about the battle of Santiago, but I would like to say
a few words about the lessons which we have learned, or should learn,
from that battle.

First, I would say that neither that battle nor any other that I know
of, was won by chance. It requires an adequate means to accomplish such
a result. That battles are not won by chance, you have only to consider
for a moment a few--one or two--of the principal battles of the world.
Not that I mean to class the battle of Santiago as one of the great
battles of the world--but just as an ill