Adjutant-General's Office, Washington, D. C., August 17, 1898.
Major-General Merritt, Manila, Philippine Islands:--The President
directs that there must be no joint-occupation with the insurgents.
The United States is in the possession of Manila city, Manila
bay and harbor, and must preserve the peace and protect persons
and property within the territory occupied by their military and
naval forces.
The insurgents and all others must recognize the military
occupation and authority of the United States and the cessation
of hostilities proclaimed by the President.
Use whatever means in your judgment are necessary to this end. All
law-abiding people must be treated alike.
By order of the Secretary of War.
H. C. CORBIN, Adjutant-General.