The British Government has now recognised the new Republic of
Panama, the delay having only been caused by a wish to understand more clearly whether Panama accepted any of the financial responsibilities of Colombia. It appears that she does, though her contribution will not be large. The mission of protest entrusted by Colombia to General Reyes has entirely failed, the Government of Washington adhering to its decision to recognise and defend Panama. It now only remains to obtain the sanction of Congress to recent negotiations, and according to the correspondents, this is sure to be granted, an immense majority of the people entirely approving of President Roosevelt's proceedings. As the amounts to be paid have been settled, and there is a large surplus in the American Treasury out of which to make advances, the work of completing the canal ought to be commenced this year. When it will be finished must depend upon the supply of labour; but American engineers are not remarkable for patience, ready-money payments will soon bring labourers, and barring accidents like epidemics or earthquakes, the canal should be opened for traffic in 1910. The expenditure of human life will be considerable, but can be kept down by a wise hygiene, quinine, and floating hospitals.
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