Evening star. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 1904-12-31
JAPS' MORAL SUPPORT
Reason for Encouragement
by Anglo Saxons.
SERVICE OF AMERICA
RUSSIAN-FRENCH ALLIANCE
MADE CONDITIONS PRECARIoUs.
Trouble With Foreign Representatives
Appeared to Have Been
Continuous.
SERVICE OF AMERICA

(From the Publishers Clearing Company, Wash
fngton, D. c.
In her present war against Russia, Japan
has the moral support of the whole Anglo
Saxon race. The Russian-F'rench alliance
in the east made England's position ex-
tremely precarious, and the latter found it
necessary several years ago to cultivate the
friendship of Japan because she needed as
sistance. Consequently, treaty of alliance
was negotiated with Japan. The attitude
of Germany toward Japan is less certain,
but nevertheless it is friendly. Americans
are also inclined to view Japan's successes
with more or less satisfaction because of
our national interest in Japan's welfare.
In the past America has aided Japan
in every possible way and our efforts have
always been appreciated.
The general policy Of America in the east
has always been to deal justly. No matter
how weak the opponent has been America
has consistently treated oriental countries
with kindness and equity. However Japan
has been exceptionally favored by our pro-
lection and assistance in years past, and
this bond Of friendship is constantly grow
ing closer. Our diplomatic relations with
Japan form one of the most glorious pages
Of our whole history. Our aid has largely
contributed to Japan's present success, and
what We did was done with little expecta-
ton of material reward. However,
America has the eternal gratitude of every
Japanese citizen, as well as the friendship
Of their government.
Service Of America.
The first and greatest service of America
to Japan was the opening of the country to
western civilization in 1854 by Commodore
Perry. OF course. this would have been ac-
complished sooner or later by some Euro
pean power. but this fact does not detract
from the honor due Perry for being the first
to demand the opening. However, even
greater honor must be awarded America for
the peaceful method by which the opening
by the use Of armed force would have been
a comparatively easy matter, and Perry
was doubtless inclined to give his war;
ships little exercise. But he was held in
check by his instructions from Washing
ton, which prohibited the use of force. Con-
sequently, he used the diplomatic method
of effecting his purpose, and his firm, Dig
nified attitude during the treaty negotia-
lions gained many friends for America.
But after japan was forced into the arena
Of world-poltics her position was as incon-
gruous as before the opening of the coun-
try. She had no diplomats and her rulers
were ignorant of the ways of the diplomatic
world. Fortunately for Japan, however,
Townsend Harris was appointed consul
general from America. From some years
previous to his appointment he had been en-
gagged as merchant IN the oriental LrdQe,
and from personal observation he had be-
come thoroughly acquainted with the east
ern question. Moreover, he completely un-
derstood the mysterious workings of the
oriental mind and it's unique business meth
DDS. His services to Japan were many and
valuable He gave them their first lessons
in diplomacy and international law, theo-
retical as well as practical He also taught
them how to organize their consular serv-
ice and many other governmental matters.
Return Of shimonoseki Indemnity.
Another magnanimous act Of America
was the return of the Shimonosed indem-
nifty. Through this incident America re-
ceived the sum OF $3.50. 125, while the dam
age she suffered only amounted to $1D. a2g.
Four nations-America, England. France
and Holland-had extorted an immense In