of national dignity is affronted. Japan regards as highly humiliating the proposals now before Congress in several forms to make general Asiatic exclusion laws. This situation is the more painful to her because until lately our relations have been so ideal. In spite of recent rebuffs and unkind words and treatment, there is a remarkable spirit of patience and moderation. But it can not be denied that her friendly feelings and her admiration for America have considerably cooled."
Japan's attitude
The assumption that Japan wants the Philippines has no foundation. The Japanese commission which examined the islands years ago reported that the climate prohibited successful colonization. It is doubtful whether Japan, whose interests are on the Continent, would care to accept them as a gift if she had the expense of fortifying them. Our own naval expense has been doubled in consequence of our Pacific possessions. The annual war-scare about Japan, which has flared up regularly just before the vote on naval appropriations, has been created by a few fanatics who wanted excuse for a huge navy.
