The fact that other countries instantly recognized Panama, and
that President Roosevelt's action was completely and emphatically
endorsed by Secretary Hay, proved that the Panama incident was an
example of the promptness, wisdom and courage in the conduct of
foreign relations which leads alike to justice and the
satisfactory settlement of difficult problems. For not the
bitterest opponent of Mr. Roosevelt's administration ever dared to
cast a shadow of doubt upon the honesty of Secretary Hay. The
canal is now built, thanks in large part to President Roosevelt,
and we have had a chance to see that wise decisions may often be
reached swiftly; whereas dawdling, hesitation and timidity, which
are sometimes mistaken for statesmanship, are more than apt to
end, not only in general injustice, but in practical failure.
The war between Russia and Japan took place during President
Roosevelt's term of office. After it had been going on over a
year, and Japan had won victories by land and sea, the President
asked both countries to open negotiations for peace. He continued
to exert strong influence in every quarter to help bring the two
enemies to an agreement. Only since his death has it become
generally known how hard he worked to this end. A peace conference
was held at Kittery Navy Yard in Maine, and a treaty was signed
which ended the war.
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