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

Any nation that refuses to hold intercourse with other nations must expect to be excluded from this family.

If you make a treaty first with the United States and settle the matter of the opium trade, England cannot change this, though she should desire to do so.

Japan and China are isolated and without intercourse with other countries; hence the President directed me to attend to or watch the state of affairs in China also.

Open the doors to all. Let the children of the rich and the poor take their seats together and know of no distinction save that of industry, good conduct, and intellect.

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

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.