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310 the United States may not become increasingly intimate and friendly. Economic and political cooperation will then be possible in a positive way. It has been possible heretofore only in spite of lack of understanding on the part of both peoples and in spite of failure to realize their unity of interests. Coöperation and interdependence must succeed the distrust and "independence," so prominent, often, in the past. If Mexico is strong and "independent," in the broader sense of that word, she will be a friend of the United States, an ally in the defense of the principles in foreign policy for which the United States stands, and a bulwark against possible attack from the south. These she will be from principle and because her own best interests demand it. For the best interests of the United States no other standard of action is necessary. A friendly, strong, and independent Mexico will bring greater economic advantages than the annexation that certain classes of Mexicans fear and some citizens of the United States desire. It would contribute more to American political security. A friendly neighbor is a better bulwark than a disaffected province.

The arguments for a cordial understanding between Mexico and the United States are so compelling that it is hard to believe that they will be disregarded by those who guide the fortunes of the two republics. Without a strong and safe United States, Mexico can not be strong nor can its independence be assured. If Mexico is a weak and hostile nation, the United States is not safe, and an essential of the foreign policy of all American states is rendered less secure.