Page:American Diplomacy in the Orient - Foster (1903).djvu/147

 nearer approach to this continent, and the intercourse which American vessels have with it,—such vessels constituting five sixths of all which annually visit it,—could not but create dissatisfaction on the part of the United States at any attempt, by another power, should such attempt be threatened or feared, to take possession of the islands and colonize them, and subvert the native government. Considering, therefore, that the United States possesses so very large a share of the intercourse with those islands, it is indeed not unfit to make the declaration that their government seeks nevertheless no peculiar advantages, no exclusive control over the Hawaiian government, but is content with its independent existence, and anxiously wishes for its security and prosperity. Its forbearance in this respect, under the circumstances of the very large intercourse of its citizens with the islands, would justify this government, should events hereafter arise to require it, in making a decided remonstrance against the adoption of an opposite policy by any other power."

This positive declaration of the interest and purpose of the government of the United States had the desired effect in Europe. Mr. Richards and Haalilio met Sir George Simpson in London, and without much difficulty brought the British government to an agreement to recognize the independence of Hawaii. More difficulty was encountered at Paris, but after due explanations as to the policy of the island government respecting the Catholic religion, the French government consented to