The danger created by the presence of German cruisers in
the harbour of Manilla is not over yet. The Germans will not obey hints as to their movements, fraternise in the city openly with the Spaniards, and appear inclined to side with them, if not against the Americans, against the native insurgents. Recently, the Captain of the ` Irene ' even threatened to fire upon the latter when they were attacking Grande Island, in Subig Bay, and compelled them to desist. They reported the matter to Admiral Dewey, who sent two gunboats to the spot with orders to " investigate " the matter. The gunboats shelled Grande Island and induced it to sur- render, and the Irene' steamed away. It is possible that the German officers are acting without instructions, as the German Ambassador in Washington assures the authorities there that Germany is most friendly, but when the bombardment begins Admiral Dewey may find many reasons for complaint. He is waiting for the remainder of the reinforcements as his huge monitors have not arrived, and as General Merritt, who is to be the ad interim Governor of the Philippines, wishes to have all his troops in readiness to act in case the insurgents should get infuriated. They swarm in the city, and have Malay blood in their veins.
