New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1905-03-06

though IN slightly different language, and the
complete dependence OF the United States the
most humape principle in international politics
in every form OF dispute will have been accom-
plished as a result OF the efforts OF President
Roosevelt.
1t must not be supposed. however. that it is
only on the dramatic stage OF international pol
tiles that the administration of Theodore Roose-
Welt has accomplished triumphs.
THE REAL BIG STICK"
One of the most striking and yet one of the most
widely misunderstood policies of the President
is that sometimes characterized 5 his advocacy
of the big stick" In one OF his public speeches
the President deprecated the habit OF boasting.
and referred with appreciation TO an old adage
which runs Speak softly and carry big
stick" The expression was seized upon by those
who opposed the upbuilding Of the navy. in
creased efficiency for the army and the general
Improvement of the military establishment OF
the nation Since then every proper resentment
Of an injury TO an American citizen. every ap-
peal for the maintenance Of navy, every rec
ommendation for increased efficiency Of the
army. has been slightngly termed Eooseyelts
big stick policy" The President is an ardent
advocate OF that military strength in a nation
which corresponds to perfect physical develop
ment in the Individual He well appreciates
that it is not the strong man. the man who Is
skilled in the art OF self-detenee, the man who
possesses courage, that is either coward or a
bully. and so he believes that the nation which
possesses military power will command respect.
will practise sef-restraint under prOvocation.
but Will be in position 10 resent insult when
| the exercise Of patience has ceased 10 be "A
| virtue. He is convinced that thorough prepared
ness is insurance against war that nations
| which might otherwise be tempted TO drive this
| country TO the. extremity of war will hesitate
| and think long. with the knowledge that the
United States is entirely prepared to defend
itself and to strike hard if IL strikes at all
| Holding these views, President Roosevelt has
/ consistently and uniformly urged the necessity
OF navy of the first class, trained to the high
| est state of efficiency Experience as Assist
ant Secretary of the Navy at Il time when the
| nation obliged to recruit a naval force al
| most on a moments notice, wh-u urgent neces-
| sity compelled the purchase OF auxiliary
| sells and supplies at extortionate prices from
| men who did not scruple to make their coun-
| try's necessities the occasion for unwarranted
| profits demonstrated to Mr.. Roosevelt the I'M
| possibility Of making up for lost time when
! was about TO be declared and consequently he
| has been particularly insistent adhering TO
| the letter of Washington's admonition. In time
| of peace prepare for war"
With regard to the army. however. the Presi-
! dent has pursued somewhat different course.
| His faith In the bravery and adaptaFiIity o;
| the American man leads him 10 believe that
| minimum of military training will At the aver
| age American citizen TO carry arms in his
! try's defence. and he advocates, therefore, a
| comparatively small army. He insists. how
| ever that such standing army shall be main
! tanned shall attain the highest state OF perfec-
| military force. Under his supervision the com
| prehensive military plans of Secretary Root
| have been carried to successful completion. and
| to-day the State militia is being so reorganized
| that it shall always prove powerful and well
| trained reserve force. from which the govern
| ment may draw achievements in time Of need.
PHIIIppINE DEEEI npMENT