The United States, as we argued last week, have been
com- pelled to intervene in Cuba. Last Saturday Mr. Taft, acting under authority from Mr. Roosevelt, proclaimed himself Pro- visional Governor, and took charge of the administration. In his proclamation he explained that the step was necessary on account of the failure of the Cuban Congress, and declared that the occupation would be maintained only long enough to restore order and public confidence. When this end is accomplished, elections will be held to 'determine the constitu- tion of the Government. Orders have been issued for the despatch to Cuba of the first expeditionary force of six thousand men, the command of which is to be taken by General Funston, and during the week Marines have been landed from the American squadron. The Cuban flag is still flown, and the inhabitants of the island who are not in the field seem to regard the occupation with equanimity and unconcern. The disbandment of the Government Volunteers has begun, and Disarmament Commissions have been sent out to the rebel camps. Mr. Taft, like his predecessor General Wood, has begun a campaign against yellow fever, which seems to be reappearing in Havana.
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