NEWS OF THE WEEK.
THE opening of the Japanese Diet on Thursday was marked by one of the most significant events in the modern history of Japan. The Emperor in person de- livered the Speech from the Throne, Containing guarded references to the present crisis. The Lower House unani- mously voted a reply condemning the Ministry in unequivocal terms, and declaring that though a crisis of unparalleled im- portance had been reached in the nation's destiny, Ministerial measures were quite inadequate to meet it, since their policy was opportunist at home and casual abroad. "Considering which things with profound solicitude, we earnestly pray his Majesty to exercise his enlightened judgment thereon." It is regarded as inevitable that the Lower House will be dissolved at once. Japan has proved an apt pupil in constitutional methods ; but the truly remarkable thing in the incident is not the use for the first time of a particular mode of censure, but the spirit which inspires the nation in this crisis of its destiny. The Katsura Cabinet has shown itself eminently moderate and conciliatory ; but its attitude has clearly failed to represent that of the Japanese people. Russia must face the fact that if she fights Japan, she will fight a nation only too eager to get to grips with her. The Japanese are anxious to have the question settled, and if this settlement is to be peaceful, it must come soon.
