Page:Japan by the Japanese (1904).djvu/15

Rh of her most able and far-sighted monarch can never be measured in words. Some idea may be gained from the series of Imperial edicts, speeches, and proclamations with which the book begins. They are landmarks in the history of the progress of Japan since the accession of the present Emperor to the throne, which enable us to understand more clearly than before the way in which His Majesty has guided his nation to success. I can only record here my admiration for his achievements and my gratitude for his consideration. All my efforts to compile the book would have been in vain had it not been for the active and unceasing co-operation of many of my Japanese friends. Principal among these I must mention Mr. Sakatani, Baron Sannomiya, Baron Suyematsu, Baron Shibusawa, Mr. Yamazaki and Mr. Kodama of the Finance Department, and the Hon. K. Tsudzuki. My thanks can only repay in very small degree their many kindnesses, and I trust that the benefit to Japan resulting from the publication of the book in the way of spreading information may be a more adequate recompense to them and to all those who have contributed to the work. This book represents much toil, much time, and much effort cheerfully spent by all for the sake of Japan. I am proud to have been associated with this patriotic work of those whom I am happy in being able to call my friends. Believing as I do that a few years will show Japan to be one of the greatest of the great nations of the world, I am glad to have thus been able to assist towards establishing a better and fuller understanding of the country and of its people.

June 7, 1904.