moted by this
Government, but had its origin in what seems to have been a reactionary
and revolutionary policy on the part of Queen Liliuokalani, which put
in serious peril not only the large and preponderating interests of the
United States in the islands, but all foreign interests, and, indeed,
the decent administration of civil affairs and the peace of the islands.
It is quite evident that the monarchy had become effete and the Queen's
Government so weak and inadequate as to be the prey of designing and
unscrupulous persons. The restoration of Queen Liliuokalani to her
throne is undesirable, if not impossible, and unless actively supported
by the United States would be accompanied by serious disaster and the
disorganization of all business interests. The influence and interest of
the United States in the islands must be increased and not diminished.

Only two courses are now open--one the establishment of a protectorate
by the United States, and the other annexation full and complete. I
think the latter course, which has been adopted in the treaty, will be
highly promotive of the best interests of the Hawaiian people, and is
the only one that will adequately secure the interests of the United
States. These interests are not wholly selfish. It is essential that
none of the other great powers shall secure these islands. Such a
possession would not consist with our safety and with the peace of the
world. This view of the situation is so apparent and conclusive that no
protest has been heard from any government against proceedings looking
to annexation. Every foreign representative at Honolulu promptly
acknowledged the Provisional Government, and I think there is a general
concurrence in the opinion that the deposed Queen ought not to be
restored.

Prompt action upon this treaty is very desirable. If it meets the
approval of the Senate, peace and good order will be secured in the
islands under existing laws until such time as Congress can provide
by legislation a permanent form of government for the islands. This
legislation should be, and I do not doubt will be, not only just to the
natives and all other residents and citizens of the islands, but should
be characterized by great liberality and a high regard to the rights of
all people and of all foreigners domiciled there. The correspondence
which accompanies the treaty will put the Senate in possession of all
the facts known to the Executive.

BENJ. HARRISON.