History of the second Pan-American congress, with notes on the Republic of Mexico

Front matter

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Preface

IN the following pages I have given my personal impressions of that most interesting and historic event, the Second Pan-American Congress, reviewing the work accomplished in order that the reader may have a general understanding of the scope, purposes and achievements of this international council. The various official publications to appear in the course of time will not, by the very reason of their character, outline many interesting facts in connection with this Congress ; nor can they give the intimate history, the inner meaning, motives and intrigue which w T ere an essential part of the same, and which existed as a very live factor in the moulding of the different resolutions adopted. The daily press of the United States and Latin America gave more or less extensive accouuts of the happenings as they occurred from day to day. These notes are a resume of my daily cablegraphic service to both North and South America, with such commentaries as are required for the average reader's elucidation. Any criticisms are kindly meant, for I am an optimist on the subject of a better understanding between the United States and the people of Latin America, as well as among the Latin Americans themselves. Notwithstanding the heterogeneity of race, creed and tradition, I believe that the educational campaign inaugurated through the medium of these con-

8 Preface

gresses, and the mutual interests which politically and commercially bind the various countries of this hemisphere will, in time, unquestionably bring about sufficient practical results to make those interested in this international propaganda feel that their work has not been in vain. Future generations will think gratefully of the pioneers in this movement for a better understanding between the independent nations of Pan-America, which effort means so much, morally and materially, for their welfare, and will remember those earnest lawmakers, who by adequate legislation are now seeking to provide for contingencies that are bound to come.

It is a pleasure to record my gratitude to the Mexican Government, its delegation and to the delegates in general for their courteous treatment. To Messrs. Urbina and Dufoo of El Impartial, and Guernsey, Hudson and Simonds of the Mexican Herald, as well as to many other good friends, I give thanks for numerous kind attentions.

The Author.