iven in the first
instance in every part of the islands in the language of the people.
In view of the great number of languages spoken by the different tribes,
it is especially important to the prosperity of the islands that a
common medium of communication may be established, and it is obviously
desirable that this medium should be the English language. Especial
attention should be at once given to affording full opportunity to all
the people of the islands to acquire the use of the English language.

It may be well that the main changes which should be made in the system
of taxation and in the body of the laws under which the people are
governed, except such changes as have already been made by the military
government, should be relegated to the civil government which is to be
established under the auspices of the Commission. It will, however, be
the duty of the Commission to inquire diligently as to whether there
are any further changes which ought not to be delayed, and if so, they
are authorized to make such changes subject to your approval. In doing
so they are to bear in mind that taxes which tend to penalize or repress
industry and enterprise are to be avoided; that provisions for taxation
should be simple, so that they may be understood by the people; that
they should affect the fewest practicable subjects of taxation which
will serve for the general distribution of the burden.

The main body of the laws which regulate the rights and obligations of
the people should be maintained with as little interference as possible.
Changes made should be mainly in procedure, and in the criminal laws to
secure speedy and impartial trials, and at the same time effective
administration and respect for individual rights.

In dealing with the uncivilized tribes of the islands the Commission
should adopt the same course followed by Congress in permitting the
tribes of our North American Indians to maintain their tribal
organization and government, and under which many of those tribes are
now living in peace and contentment, surrounded by a civilization to
which they are unable or unwilling to conform. Such tribal governments
should, however, be subjected to wise and firm regulation, and, without
undue or petty interference, constant and active effort should be
exercised to prevent barbarous practices and introduce civilized
customs.

Upon all officers and