I have made these references to the Philippine Islands because I want to say that. under the circumstances. I am heartily in favor of the annexation of the island of Puerto Rico. but am unalterably opposed to the permanent retention of the Philippine Islands. except so much as may be necessary for naval stations. concessions for which can be easily secured. When we establish a colonial system of government (and it can never be anything else) upon these Asiatic islands. we not only throw to the winds the cherished principles of the Republic. but abandon the Monroe doctrine. for if we claim for ourselves the right to enter this foreign field for the forcible acquisition of territory. with what consistency can w6 deny to European powers a similar right on the American continent? But the case is essentially different with Puerto Rico. Its proximity to our mainland. the character of its inhabitants. and the willingness with which they accept our sovereignty. together with the advantagescommercial. sanitary. and strategicall unite to enable us to make her an integral part of our domain. without any violence to principle or any danger of foreign entanglements.