succeed Justice Shiras. Governor Taft declined because of the peculiar condition of affairs in the Philippines. President Roosevelt acquiesced at that time, but in January, 1903, he cabled again, insisting that he could not again permit a declination. But a great meeting was held by the leading Filipinos to protest against Governor Taft's resigning the governorship, and he declined a second time an appointment to the highest position in his profession of the law.
His administration of affairs in the Philippines continued until December 23, 1903, when he sailed for the United States, and on February 1, 1904, he succeeded Mr. Root as secretary of war. On April 30, of the same year, he was the official representative of President Roosevelt at the elaborate ceremonies of the opening of the Louisiana Purchase exposition at St. Louis.
During four years of his close connection with affairs in the Philippines, Governor Taft secured remarkable results. He soon gained the confidence of the natives, and later he accomplished the extremely difficult task of convincing them that our home Government really and earnestly desired their welfare. In the establishment of a suitable form of government he planned wisely, and throughout his official course he administered affairs judiciously. He gave to the people his very best efforts. The vast improvement in their condition, the safety of life and property, the establishment of courts and schools, the building of roads, the improved sanitary conditions and financial affairs of the island, are most convincing evidence of his skill and efficiency. Here as elsewhere he put character into his work. He was faithful to the trust reposed in him.
While very hopeful as to the future of the Philippines, Secretary Taft holds that it is now too early for our Government to make definite promises regarding their independence. He holds that the natives should be taught that "liberty is a God-given boon to those who seek it and deserve it, and that only experience and effort can prepare a people to enjoy it." But he has no doubt that our Government will treat the natives of the islands with the highest degree of fairness and consideration. In a recent address he said: "I have an abiding confidence in the power of the American people to reach a right conclusion and put it into effect against the selfish purposes of special interests. It takes time, but the people always win in the end."
