ABSTRACT
In order to approach the Japanese in an agreeable manner, Perry had a decorated box made in which President Fillmore's letter to the Ruler of Japan was deposited for delivery. When he reached Kanagawa, and an officer like a policeman came on board to inquire of the Commander what his business was, Commodore Perry refused to be seen. The visitor talked to a junior officer. A higher officer was sent who was met by a higher officer under Perry. Finally the Governor, or the officer corresponding to what would be the Governor now, came on board, but failed to see the Commander of the fleet. The Japanese finally asked who could see the Admiral and get from him an account of his strange appearance in Japanese waters. It was replied that only a special messenger direct from the Shogun could see him, since Perry was the bearer of a message to Japan from the Great Ruler of his own country. The impression made upon the Japanese by this manner of approach was most favorable. It struck them that Perry was civilized, and quite different from the barbarous white men who came with ruffian-like threats and a show of force. He came in the polite and suasive manner of a Runs"i, or gentleman. Western nations in dealing with the East have been too impatient to get results desired, not remembering that the straight and direct line is more ineffective than the roundabout way of studied politeness. It is not courteous to make a short call, in their rules of propriety. The timed brevity of an afternoon call, as we make it, is to them rude to the host. Time must be woven into the fabric of beauty in the 100m of social exchange and polite intercourse.
