It is a pleasure for me to mention in terms of cordial appreciation the timely and useful work of the American National Red Cross, both in relief measures preparatory to the campaigns, in sanitary assistance at several of the camps of assemblage, and, later, under the able and experienced leadership of the president of the society, Miss Clara Barton, on the fields of battle and in the hospitals at the front in Cuba. Working in conjunction with the governmental authorities and under their sanction and approval, and with the enthusiastic co-operation of many patriotic women and societies in the various States, the Red Cross has fully maintained its already high reputation for intense earnestness and ability to exercise the noble purposes of its international organization, thus justifying the confidence and support which it has received at the hands of the American people. To the members and officers and all who aided them in their philanthropic work, the sincere and lasting gratitude of the soldiers and the public is due and freely accorded. In tracing these events we are constantly reminded of our obligations to the Divine Master for His watchful care over us and His safe guidance, for which the nation makes reverent acknowledgment and offers humble prayers for the continuance of His favors. [Illustration: William McKinley] ILLUSTRATIONS. PAGE. Clara Barton, from a portrait taken about 1875 Frontispiece. The International Committee of the Red Cross, Geneva, Switzerland opp. 16 Clara Barton, taken about 1885 opp. 17 The First Red Cross Warehouse, Washington, D.C. 21 National Red Cross Headquarters in Washington, from 1892 to 1897 22 Some of the First Members of the American National Red Cross 43 A Group of American National Red Cross Members 44 A Group of American National Red Cross Members 55 Suburban Headquarters, American National Red Cross 56 Some Red Cross Decorations Presented to Clara Barton 83 Chronological Historic Tree 84 Clara Barton, taken about 1884 113 "Josh V. Throop" 114 Camp Perry 143 Red Cross Headquarters 144 Johnstown, Pa., before the Flood of 1889 155 Red Cross Hotel, Locust Street, Johnstown, Pa. 156 Red Cross Furniture Room, Johnstown, Pa. 163 Typical Scene after the Flood at Johnstown, Pa., May 30, 1889 164 In Memoriam 174