“If Japan had been near to either England or France, war would have broken out long ago.”
Author details
Related authors
Other Townsend Harris Quotes
The United States have no possessions in the east and do not desire to have any, as other countries do.
Townsend Harris 
58% of people like this quote
We were sent to this country by the President, who desires to promote the welfare of Japan, and are quite different from the ambassadors of other countries.
Townsend Harris
57% of people like this quote
When the ambassadors of other foreign countries come to Japan to make treaties, they can be told that such and such a treaty has been made with the ambassador of the United States, and they will rest satisfied with this.
Townsend Harris
57% of people like this quote
Two things are desired in order that intercourse may be had: First, that a minister or agent be allowed to reside at the capital. Second, that commerce between different countries be freely allowed.
Townsend Harris
56% of people like this quote
Since the invention of steamships distant countries have become like those that are near at hand.
Townsend Harris
55% of people like this quote