The Nebraska Advertiser

BACK FROM MANILA.

Gen. Smith Arrived at San Francisco on Transport Thomas.

The Officer Who Ordered Samar Made a Howling Wilderness Overcome With Emotion When Told of His Retirement.

San Francisco, Aug. 2.-Gen. Jacob Smith arrived yesterday from Manila on the transport Thomas. Gen. Smith positively declined to say anything for publication and would not even allow reporters to approach him. Through his aide, Lieut. M. H. Shields, Gen. Smith said that he would not be interviewed as he did not care to subject himself to further criticism.

Gen. Smith, tried by court-martial for having ordered the island of Samar transformed into a howling wilderness, was doomed on his arrival to learn for the first time that President Roosevelt had retired him from active duty. When the Thomas reached quarantine station Maj. Duval, of the transport service, boarded the ship with his secretary and met Gen. Smith and Lieut. Shields at the door of the general's cabin. A sealed document was handed to Gen. Smith. It contained the official notification of President Roosevelt's action and, upon reading it, Gen. Smith retired, overcome with emotion.

Gen. Smith, who is wearing civilian attire, appears exceedingly nervous and worn. His 62 years are plainly read in his every action and his intimate friends fear that he is breaking down under the severe strain to which he has been subjected to in recent months.