We call attention elsewhere to the strained relations which may
by and by exist between the United States and Spain. General Grant, as we read his action, may very soon be tempted to say the war in Cuba must end, even if he does not say that slavery in Cuba must be abolished. The Spanish Government, in its some- what unexpected proposal to enfranchise all slaves in Porto Rico, is evidently anxious to give the President some earnest of its intention to abolish slavery in Cuba, whenever that policy becomes safe. Indeed, it is said it would abolish it now, but that the Volunteers threatened, on hearing the news, to declare Cuba independent. In the debate on the Navy in the American House of Representatives (December 3), General Banks admitted that the new swift war steamers were required to meet events which might happen any day in the Gulf of Mexico, and quoted the Secretary for the Navy as his authority. Another member openly named Spain as the probable cause of danger, and six steamers were voted by a heavy majority. The American Navy is in such a condition that even Spain is formidable, but the moment war broke out, ironclads would be purchased at any price anywhere.
