first step to the
annexation of these islands by us.

Japan declares herself opposed to such a union, and will do her best to
prevent it.

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.

The President is said to have answered him:

"I shall consider it a personal favor if you will remain until after the
annexation."

"How long will that be?" asked the officer.

"It is very close at hand," was the President's reply.

This looks as if we would have great news from the Sandwich Islands ere
long.

This probability of annexation explains the reason why Queen Liliuokalani,
the Queen of the Sandwich Islands, has been in Washington this winter.

You remember that we told you how President Cleveland tried to restore to
her her lost throne, and that he failed to do so.

When the Queen arrived in Washington this season it was at once supposed
that she had come for some purpose; and either intende