212 SOCIETY NAVAL ARCHITECTS AND MARINE ENGINEERS. 



the suggestion of the Government of the United States, and the advice of the American 

 delegation was influential upon a great many particulars which entered into this convention. 

 The conference was composed of men trained to the sea and experienced in the administra- 

 tion of the laws relating to maritime affairs, and its unanimous conclusions carry weight on 

 the matters of which the convention treats. The American delegates, who took an active 

 part in the framing of every article and regulation of the convention, are agreed that the 

 international standards for the safety of life at sea thus proposed to be established are 

 higher than those of any nation now in force, and that the ratification of the convention will 

 secure benefits for humanity by the joint action of maritime nations which could not be ac- 

 complished by any one nation, however powerful upon the sea. There are probably points 

 in detail in which the convention may be criticized, especially by particular interests, but 

 in its entirety it is high testimony to the will and ability of nations to put aside special and 

 local considerations in order to promote the progress and welfare of mankind. By its terms 

 the ratifications shall be deposited not later than December 31, 1914. Early and favorable 

 action, accordingly, is recommended. 



Respectfully submitted. 



W. J. Bryan. 



Department of State, 



Washington, D. C, March 13, 19 14. 



