Taft Arrives in Philippines; Church Lands Sale Assured
GOVERNOR TAFT has arrived in the Philippines, where he was received with a great demonstration of welcome by both the foreign residents and the natives. In a speech the governor stated that the sale of the church lands to the government was assured, and that the money would not go to the friars, but would remain on the islands. The chief contest involved in the negotiations between the government and the Vatican is that pertaining to the schools. The Vatican is determined to retain control of the department of public instruction. The “apostolic delegate” at Manila has received secret instructions from Rome, giving precise information regarding the points to be insisted on in the remaining negotiations with Governor Taft, and the hope is expressed by the papal secretary of state that a “satisfactory solution” of the educational question will be reached.