THE SAMOA TROUBLE.

Gisborne Standard and Cook County Gazette, Volume II, Issue 257, 7 February 1889, Page 2

THE SAMOA TROUBLE.

It now appears that Germany is anxious to withdraw from the position she has taken up with regard to Samoa, and hopes are held out that the storm will soon blow over, perhaps in the end doing much good. One point ip which Bismarck has always displayed the good qualities of a statesman, is that if he has made a mistake or overreached himself, he has the power of making a graceful retreat. The outcome of the trouble will no doubt be that a joint protectorate over Samoa will be established, The Government of the United States has shown against the proceedings of Germany a front which is in marked contrast with that exhibited by England, with better opportunities. We have strongly commented on the eagerness with which all the nations directly concerned have each endeavored to push their own trade, regardless of the rightful interests of the natives; but since there is no prospect of things being restored to their normal state, the best that could be hoped for is that an understanding may ba come to between the three powers. That is the only chance the natives will have of their rights being respected, and it is time some definite settlement were made. We doubt if the whole territory in dispute is worth the loss of life, trouble and expense that have been incurred over it, but then history tells us that nearly all great wars have arisen, from troubles over minor matters. America has taken advantage of the present state of things to become importunate in her demands for establishing the neutrality of Samoa. Were it come to blows the United States alone would not have the chance of a child against Germany, but as matters stand at present Bismarck is fully aware of the terrible fire which one spark would alight. He knows full well that Samoa is not worth risking war over, and that it is more to his purpose to act with mildness at the present juncture. Therefore there does not appear to be much reason t° fear any serious results in regard to Samoa.