China is called a vast political desert. The oases are the foreign concessions or spheres of influence of Great Britain. France. and Japan. Without such spheres. it is alleged. no communication could be had with the Chinese. I read the philanthropic as.sertion that "Japans stern and positive policy toward China has for its aims the protection of Japanese lives and property and the safeguarding of Japan interests." Japan is obliged. It is urged. to pursue that course to prevent being crowded off the Asiatic mainland. Her absorption of Korea. her occupation of Manchuria. Is indispensable to the growth of Japan.