The Diplomatic Warfare.

Manawatu Herald, 2 April 1904, Page 3

The Diplomatic Warfare.

Japan up to date has not only worsted her foe at sea, but in the r diplomatic arena she has come out Evening Post’s correspondent, writing from Tokio). Perhaps modern history supplies no better illustration of an impressive and paralysing coup than the defensive treaty with Korea which Mr Hayasbi has completed. Just before the outbreak of hostilities, Russian influence was strong eaoughatthe Korean Court to induce the monarch of that serio-comic kingdom to add to the gaiety of nations by declaring that the might of his burlesque array would not be enlisted on one side or the other. Barely has the laughter which his inconsequential and ludicrous announcement induced subsided than the really important notification is made that Korea has become the alley of Japan. This defensive treaty may have consequences which will perhaps alter the whole aspect of the war. It is possible that under the terms •£ the Franco-Russian •declaration of 1902 France may be compelled to become a belligerent. Should that be so, England must also take a hand. Even supposing that the Korea-Japan treaty does not bring about a much-feared European war, it virtually improves Japan’s position. Hitherto, by certain overt acts against Russia within Korean territorial bounds, notably at Seoul and Chemulpho, and also by her action in landing forces in the peninsula, J apan has admittedly sailed very close to violating the aw of nations. Now, however, with little Korea clinging convulsively to her kimono, Japan can play at baiting the Russian bear in the Korean back-yard to the top of her bent.