The Japanese in the islands have become very bold and defiant.
They have been holding mass-meetings, and denouncing the action of the government in very strong terms.
It would seem that the Hawaiian government had acted none too soon in the Japanese immigration question, for, were the Japanese stronger in numbers, the indications are that they would try and take possession of the Sandwich Islands for themselves.
The cruiser Philadelphia has arrived in Honolulu. She has been sent to this post to protect our citizens in the islands, in case of trouble with Japan.
The Marion is also stationed at Hawaii, and the Secretary of State considers the situation so serious that he will keep two of our war-vessels on duty there, until all fear of disturbance is passed.
The people of Hawaii, as we have already told you, are most anxious to be annexed to the United States; and it appears as if President McKinley were willing to consider the proposal, though he has said nothing publicly to that effect.
It is, however, fully understood that he will take no steps whatever until after the Tariff Bill has been disposed of.
In Hawaii, they seem to be expecting that each incoming steamer will bring a Minister from the United States, who will be authorized to conclude the annexation treaty.
A story is told that an officer of the Hawaiian National Guard wished to resign his commission. The President of the Hawaiian Islands, Mr. Dole, hearing of it, urged him to remain.
The officer said he had seen enough service, and would prefer to retire and make way for a younger man.