He refers to the government established
In the island of Neeros as successful. And
outlines its salient features. Of the Sulu
group he gives the features of the treaty
entered Into betweon this country and the
sultan, and of that portion of tno treaty
relating to slavery in the islands says:
Article X provides that any slave in the
archipelago of Jolo shall have the right
to purchase freedom by paying to the master
the usual market value. The agreement
by Gen. Bates was made subject to
confirmation by the President and in fn.
ture modifications by tho consent of the
parties In Interest. I have confirmed said
agreement, subject to the action of the
congress, nnd with the reservation, which
I have directed shall be communicated to
the sultan of Jolo, that this agreement Is
not to be deemod in any way to authorize
or give the consent or the United States
to the existence or slavery in the Sulu
archipelago. I communicate these facts
to the congress for Its Information and
action.
