founded guesses, all worked into terrifying headlines that have no foundation whatever. In each country, doubtless, there are irresponsible persons that war would aid or make prominent, who try to give seriousness to such a discussion, but when one considers the real feelings of the two peoples as a whole, when one considers the situation from the standpoint of sanity and real patriotism in each country, it is difficult to characterize in polite or moderate language the conduct of those who are attempting to promote misunderstanding and ill-feeling between the two countries.

"It gives me pleasure to assure the people of Japan that the good-will of the American people toward Japan is as warm and cordial as ever it was, and the suggestion of a breach of the amicable relations between them finds no confirmation in the public opinion of the United States. It is exceedingly gratifying for me to have as my companion in my visit to these shores, Mr. O'Brien, the Ambassador to Japan from the United States. We have been friends for years. I am sure you I will find in Mr. O'Brien all that could be desired in one whose chief official duty it will be to preserve the friendship between our

two countries.

"I have always referred to the enthusias

tic welcome which was accorded our party of American Congressmen two years ago by the people of Japan. So great was the kind

ness of His Majesty the Emperor and the officers of the Government that we were overcome with our welcome. Coming now to this country for the fourth time, I am an old story, and am not entitled to any other welcome than that to be accorded an old friend who comes often. The distinction of being the Emperor's guest another time, I do not deserve, and should feel it my duty to decline, enjoyable as the honor is, but for the fact that I know that His Imperial Majesty graciously adopts this course not as a personal matter but to signify to the American people and government the continuance of his friendship for the United States. It gives me the greatest pleasure and is a great honor for me to be able to bring a reciprocal message of good will from our President and our people."

CHAPTER VIII.

LTHOUGH the whole world knew of
John Hay's "open door" in China,

there had been no little speculation as to what that meant. There were some who thought it was merely a diplomatic phrase of the American Secretary of State, which might be ignored by the traders of other nations if they could only make special arrangements with the Celestial Empire. "It is only the Yankee bluff," said these sanguine folk, and possibly some Chinese statesmen thought this too. But Secretary Taft disillusioned these individuals. Not one of them is now laying plans on the theory that America will tolerate any other policy than fair play for all on China's part. There are to be no special privileges. America proposes to stand steadfast by China's side against all threats or even hints that suggest privilege. By virtue of her Filippine possessions, the United States and China are now neighbors, and Secretary Taft declares-not officially, it is true, but none the less emphatically-that they are and will continue earnest and sincere friends. The open door for all.

Mr. Taft's speech in Shanghai was an illumination. Shanghai is the one city of China

considered a true nerve center. Here public opinion is made. He availed himself of his opportunity to tell his audience what America stood for out in China, and to illustrate how Americanism meant good-fellowship, fair play, and in short a square deal all round. Here is his deliverance:

"MR. CHAIRMAN AND GENTLEMEN: For the courtesy and hospitality evidenced by this beautiful banquet, I wish to express to you