gentlemen assemble to bid me farewell on the eve of my departure to Geneva, where I go as the employees’ representative.
“Twenty years ago I joined the labour movement, not so much with a view to my personal advancement as in the hope of being able to make at least some little contribution to our country, to our country’s industries. But in the early days of the movement there were some capitalists who failed to appreciate my true motives, and I met with all kinds of rebuffs. Then, thinking of my country’s industrial future, I would at times turn my face to heaven and fight back my tears.
“When I reach Geneva I am determined to fight all attempts to handicap the development of our national industries, and to emphasize the peculiar position those industries hold.
“I have friends at Geneva. We will arrange things. With a little tact we can settle a victory for the workers. At the same time the question of the Eight-Hour Day, or the Minimum Wage or the Right of Collective Bargaining—all can be arranged so as to give you no cause for alarm. You must trust me.
“Now I would Like to propose a toast.”
He raises his glass and all stand up and give ringing cheers.
“Viscount Shibugaki, Banzai!”
“The Imperial Industrial Club, Banzai!”
“Mr. Akaji Akai, Banzai!”
