In replying to this point the State Department refused to give any definite answer, saying that it was a matter to be settled by Congress or the courts.
This reply was sent to the Japanese minister, who immediately cabled it to his Government.
The next step in this matter must be taken by Japan, and there is a good deal of anxiety as to what it will be.
The arrival of the steamer from Honolulu was eagerly watched for, as it was thought that the news from Hawaii might give some idea of the temper of the Japanese.
Every one was therefore very delighted to learn that the Japanese had taken no aggressive steps.
The steamer brought news of a slight alarm in Honolulu, but it had amounted to nothing.
A report had been spread that the Japanese warship Naniwa was about to land her marines and take possession of the Hawaiian Government buildings and custom-house.
The news soon reached Admiral Beardslee, who is in command of the cruiser Philadelphia.
Since the Philadelphia has been in port the Admiral has held weekly drills of the crews of his own ship, and also of the Marion, which has long been on the Hawaiian station.
At the time the news reached him, the crews were ashore drilling.