So important does the protection of the seals seem to our Government,
that when the news came that England might not join in the conference if
Japan and Russia were represented there, it was decided to hold the
meeting, whether Great Britain joined or not. But, being anxious to keep
on the best of terms with our English cousins, the Government sent a
most pressing invitation to England, begging her to attend the
conference, and hear what the scientists had to say about the seal herd,
even if she would not take any part in the discussion.
In view of this, England has consented to attend the meetings, but will
not say whether she will take any part in the proceedings.
The English papers say they cannot see what interest the Russians and
Japanese have in the Bering Sea dispute. The United States is, however,
extremely anxious that these two countries should be at the meeting to
give their opinion about the proper manner and season in which to hunt
seals.
It is intended that several scientists who have studied the habits of
the seals shall appear before the members of the conference, and give
their views about the condition of the herd. Professor D'Arcy Thompson
for England, and Professor David Starr Jordan for America, will be among
the number.
Russian and Japanese experts are also to make statements on the subject;
but a report from Canada says that the Canadian representative intends
to ask that these gentlemen shall not be allowed to speak, as she does
not think they are sufficiently well acquainted with the life and habits
of the seals to be able to offer an expert opinion.
Pages:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25