“They have not come to make war on the people of the country, who for centuries have been oppressed, but, on the contrary, they bring protection not only to yourselves, but to your property, will promote your prosperity and bestow upon you the immunities and blessings of our enlightened and liberal institutions and government. “It is not their purpose to interfere with the existing laws and customs which are wholesome and beneficial to the people, so long as they conform to the rules of the military administration, order, and justice. This is not a war of devastation and desolation, but one to give all within the control of the military and naval forces the advantages and blessings of enlightened civilisation.” _July 28._ The expedition destined for Porto Rico, under command of Major-General Brooke, left Newport News. Four transports and the auxiliary cruisers _St. Louis_ and _St. Paul_ comprises the fleet. The Navy Department made public the following telegram: “U. S. S. MASSACHUSETTS, PONCE, PORTO RICO, July 28. “Commander Davis with _Dixie_, _Annapolis_, _Wasp_, and _Gloucester_ left Guanica July 27th to blockade Ponce and capture lighters for United States army. City of Ponce and Playa surrendered to Commander Davis upon demand at 12.30 A. M., July 28th. American flag hoisted 6 A. M., 28th. “Spanish garrison evacuated. “Provisional articles of surrender until occupation by army: first, garrison to be allowed to retire; second, civil government to remain in force; third, police and fire brigade to be maintained without arms; fourth, captain of port not to be made prisoner. “Arrived at Ponce from Guanica with _Massachusetts_ and _Cincinnati_, General Miles and General Wilson and transport, at 6.40 A. M., 28th; commenced landing army in captured sugar lighters. “No resistance. Troops welcomed by inhabitants; great enthusiasm. “Captured sixty lighters, twenty sailing vessels, and 120 tons of coal. “HIGGINSON.” _July 29._ The advance guard of General Henry’s division, which landed at Guanica on Tuesday, arrived at Ponce, taking en route the cities of Yauco, Tallaboa, Sabana, Grande, and Penuelas. Attempts by the Spaniards to blow up bridges and otherwise destroy the railroad between Yauco and Ponce failed, only a few flat cars being burned. At Yauco the Americans were welcomed in an address made by the alcalde, and a public proclamation was issued, dated “Yauco, Porto Rico, United States of America, July 27th.” _July 31._ In General Miles’s despatches to the War Department, the following statements are made regarding the condition of affairs on the island: