Page:Mead - The Overthrow of the War System.pdf/123

 How America might lead

America can set now a new international standard by showing that it is a one-sided policy to spend "millions for defense but not one cent" for the deliberate, systematic cultivation of the non-military defenses of just laws, international service and an intelligent under- standing. The price of one single torpedo- boat-destroyer would provide lectures on Oriental problems in every college; for exchange of visits of American and Asiatic statesmen and for wide newspaper publicity as to important facts which are little known. All this would largely allay trouble.

One dollar spent now on preventive measures against friction and ill-will would probably save us a thousand that may be needed later if Asia arms. Now is the supremely critical period when we may make friends or foes. At this time, when policy has not crystallized, women can perform a great international service. Every woman's club should discuss our duty to the Orient. Every matron who can invite as a guest to her home some Oriental student will be amply rewarded by acquaintance with a bright youth, who may wield great power