The posts now in
existence and others to be built provide for accommodations for, and if
fully garrisoned require, 26,000 troops. Many of these posts are along
our frontier or at important strategic points, the occupation of which
is necessary.
We have in Cuba between 5,000 and 6,000 troops. For the present our
troops in that island cannot be withdrawn or materially diminished, and
certainly not until the conclusion of the labors of the constitutional
convention now in session and a government provided by the new
constitution shall have been established and its stability assured.
In Puerto Rico we have reduced the garrisons to 1,636, which includes
879 native troops. There is no room for further reduction here.
We will be required to keep a considerable force in the Philippine
Islands for some time to come. From the best information obtainable we
will need there for the immediate future from 45,000 to 60,000 men.
I am sure the number may be reduced as the insurgents shall come to
acknowledge the authority of the United States, of which there are
assuring indications.
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