Speech #470030221

Without stopping to inquire into the motive of the Hayes administration in this proceeding. whether its action was in obedience to a conviction that the measure was in itself right and expedient.. or to a public sentiment. so strong and universal as to demand the utmost vigor in the diplomacy necessary for the removal of all impediments to its progress. it must be apparent that the result of this diplomatic action has been to add a new phase to the qiestion in respect of the adoption of the measure itself In order to fully appreciate this fact it may be proper to indulge in historical reminiscence for a moment. For many years complaints had been made against the introduction into the United States of the peculiar people who conm from China. and the Congress. after careful consideration of the subject. so far appreciatedthe evil complained of as to pass a bill to interdict it. The executive department had. prior to that action. with diplomaticeesse. approached the imperial throne of China with intent. as was said. to ascertain whether such an interdiction of cooly importation. or immigration so called. into the United States would be regarded as a breach of friendly relations with China. and had been informed by the diplemate to whom the delicate task had been committed that such interdiction would not be favorably regarded by the Chinese Government. Hence. when Congress. with surprising audacity. passed the bill of interdiction the Executive. believing in the truth of the informationgiven him. thought it prudent and expedient to veto the bill. but itinediately. in pursuance of authority granted by Congress. he appointed three commissioners to negotiate a treaty by which the consent of China should be given to the interdiction prolposed by Congress. Thcse commissioners appeared before the Government of China upon this special mission. and presented the request of the Government of the United States affirmatively. positively. and authoritatively made. and after the usual diplomatic ceremonies. representations. misrepresentations. avowals. and concealutents. the treaty was made. the concession ranted. and the interdiction agreed upon.