My object in introducing this letter is twofold. First. to show that Franklin was "a goldbug ." and secondly. to prove that Manila is not so far away from San Francisco to.day in point of time as Franklin had to wait in New York for a craft to sail for England. I repeat what I have before said. that. practically speaking. time and distance have been eliminated in the affairs of men. and that our commercial relations with Asiatic people. constantly increasing in volume and profit. compel us as a prudent nation to use all means that we may rightfully to encourage and defend the same. It is asked. "Why does not the President declare his policy?" He has a duty to perform. and not a policy to enforce. His duty is clear. well defined. and free from doubts.