Phil was silent. He did not wish to belittle the statesmen of his country, but he could but acknowledge that their conditions were different. A statesman in America was a very rare and precious person. The entire government changed every four years; new statesmen arose every four years to die politically at the end of their term. Policies, therefore, were unstable. Only the great publicists could be depended upon to diagnose a situation. Phil knew that his country was in this greatly handicapped. “Taki, common sense and justice make a statesman. Such men are born, and no amount of study can produce them otherwise. We have enough such statesmen in my country,” he returned proudly. “Perry, you are a faithful champion,” Takishima said, an affectionate ring in his voice, “but even that cannot lessen our danger. Our people believe that America is aiming to control all of China; to use that vast country as a market for her manufactured articles that cannot be sold elsewhere. They believe that Japan will be excluded and sealed forever within its island kingdom.” “But why should they believe such ridiculous nonsense,” Phil cried angrily, “when there is not an atom of truth in any of it?” “Manchuria and Korea,” Takishima continued, “have been won through the spilling of much precious blood. So you can see how such thoughts arouse my people. The Emperor is fearful that something unpleasant will occur during the ‘Alaska’s’ visit, and has issued an order from the throne for all to be courteous to the Americans.” Impey and the “Shimbunshi” letter had danced before Phil’s mind during this long talk with Takishima. “What has caused this sudden misunderstanding, Taki? Who has kept the discussions alive?” Takishima shook his head. “It began when your fleet started for Manila by way of the south of Africa,” he replied, “and has steadily increased in intensity until now, when we are nearer to war than we have ever been without having it.” “Then in a month more it will die a natural death,” Phil said, brightening, “for the fleet is to return next month to the east coast of the United States. The cause then of all this jingo talk will have been removed.” “A month!” Takishima exclaimed grimly. “Much can happen in that time.” “If Japan is truthful when she says she does not desire war,” Phil said, “I can see no cause for worry. We are not seeking a war. We have enough to care for without getting into a fight so far from home.” “But how can Japan be sure that what you say is correct?” Takishima asked quickly. “To whom in America can we go to be assured that she is peacefully inclined?” “To our President,” Phil answered, his eyes flashing proudly, “the most powerful leader in the world. If he gives his word it is law. Even Congress would not dare betray it.