It is generally believed in Washington that the Cruiser Bill
will pass through the Senate, as the opponents of the Bill no longer think it practicable to prolong their filibuster. There is much doubt, however, whether the friends of the Bill will be able to carry the time limit. If the time limit falls out, the President will get his way and the Bill will simply commit the country to the principle of building fifteen cruisers, without saying when they shall be built. It must be added, however, that the President is ready to recommend an immediate appropriation as some solace to the Navy party. In the meantime, Mr. Britten, who recently communicated with Mr. Baldwin on the naval question, has stated that Mr. Hoover had told him that he was in favour of a strong Navy. Mr. Britten formed the further impression that Mr. Hoover would be pleased if the time limit were carried. Mr. Hoover immediately telegraphed to the President that he had made no such statement, public or private, and that he " warmly supported " the Presi- dent's own wishes.
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