Page:Japan by the Japanese (1904).djvu/12

viii have both these gifts been given. And therefore it may be safely said that the future of this remarkable nation, equipped with every element of perfection, pulsating with loyalty and patriotism, and thorough in every detail, cannot fail to be brilliant. Just what it is that Japan will accomplish nobody who is not of Japanese blood can foretell. But that her emergence as a great nation, recognised by the world, marks an epoch in the world’s history there can be no doubt. Those who fear yellow peril, with Japan as the motive-power of a united Asia, only afford a proof of how little is known of the Japanese and their national feelings. If a united Asia is so dread an apparition and one to be expected so speedily, it must mean that totally diverse nations, varying in religion, race, and ideas can amalgamate into one perfect whole—an idea which the present state of Europe would seem to disprove. If it has been impossible in all these years to take even one step forwards towards the union of the European States, why should it be imagined that the whole continent of Asia, with its millions of people, with its illimitable distances and deserts, can become as one nation? There need be no fear that Asia will unite; but there is a fear that the European nations lacking the thoroughness of their new sister will find in Japan a serious rival to their arrogant claims to direct the internal affairs of other nations. Japan’s future lies along commercial and industrial lines, but the exigencies of Western civilization demand that her fleet and her army shall attain a certain superiority, in order that she shall be ranked as a nation on an equality with the Christian white races. But the ambitions of Japan are peaceful ambitions, and look to the development of markets and the employing of her everincreasing population as the true secrets of greatness. War without commerce is recognised by the Japanese to be no true means of national greatness. Battles and campaigns on land and sea may be used as the opening wedges, but it is the industry and commerce ready to follow in the wake of the war that enable the benefits to be reaped. To be ‘the England of the Orient’ has often been said to be Japan’s ambition. This seems to be always taken to mean that Japan desires naval greatness, to be able to wage wars in all quarters of the globe, and obtain great colonies. But is not that a sad commentary upon our own estimation of our country’s greatness? Is it not