Martial law in the West Indies and future US rule
The piece argues martial law enables the conqueror to establish enduring republican institutions in Cuba and Porto Rico. It asserts military rule will wane as self government grows, compares US occupation to British and French colonial models, and envisions a stabilized, semi military administration with civilian protection and gradual self rule. It cites historical precedents in Mexico, the Confederacy, and India to justify orderly military governance.