, and the
attractive form in which they were presented secured general attention.

A criterion of the extent and success of our participation and of the
thoroughness with which our exhibits were organized is seen in the
awards granted to American exhibitors by the international jury, namely,
grand prizes, 240; gold medals, 597; silver medals, 776; bronze medals,
541, and honorable mentions, 322--2,476 in all, being the greatest total
number given to the exhibit of any exhibiting nation, as well as the
largest number in each grade. This significant recognition of merit in
competition with the chosen exhibits of all other nations and at the
hands of juries almost wholly made up of representatives of France and
other competing countries is not only most gratifying, but is especially
valuable, since it sets us to the front in international questions of
supply and demand, while the large proportion of awards in the classes
of art and artistic manufactures afforded unexpected proof of the
stimulation of national culture by the prosperity that flows from
natural productiveness joined to industrial excellence.

Apart from the exposition several occasions for showing international
good will occurred. The inauguration in Paris of the Lafayette Monument,
presented by the school children of the United States, and the designing
of a commemorative coin by our Mint and the presentation of the first
piece struck to the President of the Republic, were marked by
appropriate ceremonies, and the Fourth of July was especially observed
in the French capital.

Good will prevails in our relations with the German Empire. An amicable
adjustment of the long-pending question of the admission of our
life-insurance companies to do business in Prussia has been reached. One
of the principal companies has already been readmitted and the way is
opened for the others to share the privilege.

The settlement of the Samoan problem, to which I adverted in my last
message, has accomplished good results. Peace and contentment prevail in
the islands, especially in Tutuila, where a convenient administration
that has won the confidence and esteem of the kindly disposed natives
has been organized under the direction of the commander of the United
States naval station at Pago-Pago.

An Imperial meat-inspection law has been enacted for Germany. While it
may simplify the inspections, it prohibits certain products heretofore
admitted. There is still great uncerta