Items of Interest August 12, 1905 Issue

Items of Interest

On the 5th, on board the yacht Mayflower in Oyster Bay, Long Island, President Roosevelt completed his high task of bringing together representatives appointed by Japan and Russia to treat for peace. A little before twelve o'clock the President left his summer home at Sagamore Hill and took a launch for the Mayflower lying at anchor in the harbor. Half an hour later the Japanese, who had arrived on board the Tacoma from New York, boarded the Mayflower and were received by the President. A little after one o'clock the Russians, who had been brought from New York on board the Chattanooga, came alongside and were received. Shortly after this greeting the two groups of envoys were presented to each other. To relieve any possible strain in the meeting the President very soon suggested that they all repair to the luncheon awaiting them in the cabin. During this function the President said: "It is my most earnest hope and prayer, in the interest of not only these two great Powers, but all mankind, that a just and lasting peace may speedily be concluded between them."

President Roosevelt soon left the Mayflower, after shaking hands with all, and returned to his home. Later the Japanese were taken to the Dolphin, the Russians remaining on board the Mayflower. About five o'clock these two vessels, convoyed by the Galveston, weighed anchor and proceeded slowly for the Portsmouth Navy Yard, where the conference is to take place. The party was expected to reach Portsmouth Monday morning, but fog in Newport delayed progress and the functions arranged for that day. receptions by the Navy Yard officials and the Governor of New Hampshire, had to be postponed a day.

The executive committee of the Isthmian Canal Commission has practically decided to suspend attempts at digging the canal until better preparation for the work has been made. By paying the laborers in a regular, systematic manner it is believed that the present disorganization will be overcome. Governor Magoon has informed the Government of Panama that the Canal Commission has decided to establish commissariat stations for the supply of food, etc., for canal laborers along the zone, excluding Panama and Colon. Until now the United States has refrained from doing so on account of the protests of Colon and Panama merchants, but reports to Governor Magoon state that laborers cannot buy what they need in many instances, and for this reason are refusing to work. Refrigerators will be installed, and the railroad and steamers will import food from the United States.

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