The German Government, which has arranged for a Con- ference
of America, Germany, and Great Britain to settle the fate of Samoa, is indignant at some American nominations for the purpose. Mr. BlaMe has selected as one Commis- sioner Mr. Bates, who recently discussed the question in a tone which even American critics declare disqualifies him for such a post. He has also selected Mr. Sewall, the anti- German Consul-General in Samoa, not, indeed, as Commis- sioner, but as purse-bearer to the Commissioners,—that is, in fact, as prompter and referee for facts. The Cologne Gazette has been instructed to say in reference to these appointments. that they do not indicate any desire in Washington for a satisfactory arrangement. The Chancellor will not, it is said, object ; but he conceives that the Americans, having every- thing new, have a new idea of diplomacy. It is believed at Washington that the Government will accept no terms except the absolute autonomy of Samoa, and that Mr. Bates and Mr. Sewall have been appointed to make that decision clear.
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