That Panama tolls is the worst.

We are dead wrong in that, as we are dead right on the Mexican matter.

If it were possible (I don't know that it is) for the President to say (quietly, not openly) that he agrees with us--if he do--then the field would be open for a fight on Mexico; and the reenforcement of our position would he incalculable.
Then we need in Washington some sort of Bureau or Master of Courtesies for the Government, to do and to permit us to do those little courtesies that the English spend half their time in doing--this in the course of our everyday life and intercourse.

For example: When I was instructed to inform this Government that our fleet would go to the Mediterranean, I was instructed also to say that they mustn't trouble to welcome us--don't pay no 'tention to us! Well, that's what they live for in times of peace--ceremonies.
We come along and say, "We're comin' but, hell! don't kick up no fuss over us, we're from Missouri, we are!" And the Briton shrugs his shoulders and says, "Boor!" These things are happening all the time.

Of course no one nor a dozen nor a hundred count; but generations of 'em have counted badly.