21 DECEMBER 1901, Page 2

We note with the utmost satisfaction the ratification by the

American Senate of the Hay-Pauncefote Isthmian Canal Treaty. Under the terms of the Constitution a two-thirds majority was required, and it was expected that the opposi- tion would number fifteen. In the result, however, only half. a-dozen voted for the rejection of the Treaty, which was ratified by the overwhelming majority of seventy-two to six. This was, on the face of it, a conspicuous tribute to the influence of President Roosevelt, who in recommending the measure had described it as "important to his Administut. ,tion "; but the chief credit for the removal of what threatened to be a serious obstacle in the way of the Anglo-American entente cordiale is undoubtedly due to the unwearied exertions of Mr. John Hay and Lord Paunce.fote.