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approaches most closely to international law. This is not a mere statement of my own—that is to say, of Okuma individually. It is my declaration as a representative of the Meiji era. The kind of diplomacy that changes with its director is most pernicious and dangerous. There have been many instances of temporary success obtained by extraordinary geniuses or through extraordinary diplomacy; but such successes are as fragile as towers built on sand. That is what I mean by saying that foreign policy is fixed, immovable and unchangeable, and that foreign policy which changes with its director is pernicious. This has been the definite and settled view held since the first years of the Meiji era, though there may have been occasional errors. It is my intention to follow loyally and sincerely the principle I have just referred to, with due regard for the national Constitution, and in obedience to the spirit of progress, and I do not think there can be much error in carrying out such a policy.

Happily, our foreign relations are at present very cordial. I am assured that whatever slight differences may exist will be readily settled. These foreign relations will, in my opinion, eventually lead to a most cordial friendship towards Japan. Powers that, up to the present, have felt more or less coldly towards us will turn out to be the most friendly.

In respect of the general policy—that is, the policy of the Meiji Government—I have made but slight observations in addition to what has already been frequently stated. Before closing I desire to make a few more remarks. Since Japan, as I have already said, has entered the comity of nations, there is no doubt that all her foreign affairs will be more complicated than ever; and as Japanese interests, commerce, and other matters, abroad must extend, the expenses for legations and consulates, which are essentials of diplomacy, cannot be avoided. But since Japan’s position in the world has risen, the work she must do abroad is daily augmenting. The nation is ceaselessly expanding, so that her flag is to be seen in Europe and America. She is now no longer what she was in the days of her seclusion. I believe it really necessary that her diplomatic expenditures should gradually increase.