In marked contrast to the lofty assumptions of superiority which characterized the samurai of Old Japan, was the equally marked assumption of inferiority which characterized the rest of the people, or nineteen-twentieths of the nation.  I have already sufficiently dwelt on this aspect of national character.  I here recur to it merely to enforce the truth that self-arrogation and self-abnegation, haughtiness and humility, proud, high-handed, magisterial manners, and cringing, obsequious obedience, are all elements of character that depend on the nature of the social order.  They are passed on from generation to generation more by social than by biological heredity.  Both of these sets of contrasted characteristics are induced by a full-fledged feudal system, and must remain for a time as a social inheritance after that system has been overthrown, particularly if its overthrow is sudden.  In proportion as the principles of personal rights and individual worth on the basis of manhood become realized by the people and incorporated into the government and customs of the land, will abnegating obsequiousness, as well as haughty lordliness, be replaced by a straightforward manliness, in which men of whatever grade of society will frankly face each other, eye to eye.

But what shall we say in regard to the assumption made by young Japan in its attitude to foreigners?  Are the assumptions wholly groundless?  Is the self-confidence unjustified?  Far from it.  When we study later the intellectual elements of Japanese character, we shall see some reasons for their feeling of self-reliance.  The progress which the nation has made in many lines within thirty years shows that it has certain kinds of power and, consequently, some ground for self-reliance.  Furthermore, self-reliance, if fairly supported by ability and zeal, is essential in the attainment of any end whatever.  Faint heart never won fair lady.  Confidence in self is one form of faith.  No less of peoples than individuals is it true, that without faith in themselves they cannot attain their goal.  The impression of undue self-confidence made by the Japanese may be owing partly to their shortness of stature.  It is a new experience for the West to see a race of little people with large brains and large plans.  Especially does it seem strange and conceited for a people whose own civilization is so belated to assume a role of such importance in the affairs of the world.  Yet we must learn to dissociate physical size from mental or spiritual capacity.  The future alone will disclose what Japanese self-reliance and energy can produce.