Since the invention of steamships distant countries have become like those that are near at hand.

The nations of the West hope that by means of steam communication all the world will become as one family.

If I write in my name to the agents of England and France residing in Asia and inform them that Japan is ready to make a commercial treaty with their countries, the number of steamers will be reduced from fifty to two or three.

The expense of a war could be paid in time; but the expense of opium, when once the habit is formed, will only increase with time.

In time of war steamships and improved arms are the most important things.

If war should break out between England and Japan, the latter would suffer much more than the former.

The President wishes the Japanese to be very prudent about the introduction of opium, and if a treaty is made, he wishes that opium may be strictly prohibited.