William McKinley: “Neutral vessels lying in any of the ports to which the blockade is by the present proclamation extended will be allowed…”

Then I felt constrained to convene the Congress in extraordinary session to devise revenues to pay the ordinary expenses of the Government.

The Republic has marched on and on, and its step has exalted freedom and humanity.

Strong hearts and helpful hands are needed, and, fortunately, we have them in every part of our beloved country.

It is hereby ordered that upon Tuesday the ninth (9th) instant...shall be excused from duty at one o'clock P.M. for the remainder of that day to enable them to participate in the exercises of the unveiling of the statue erected to the…