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.

Two things are desired in order that intercourse may be had: First, that a minister or agent be allowed to reside at the capital. Second, that commerce between different countries be freely allowed.

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

The United States have no possessions in the east and do not desire to have any, as other countries do.

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 of the United States thinks that for the Japanese opium is more dangerous than war.