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Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 162, 14 August 1914, Page 6

'The statement is made to-day, on the authority of the London '' Times,'' that Japan, acting on her own initiative, may attack Kaio-chau, the German concession in China. Should she do so, it will involve a declaration of war against Germany, against whom Japan has no quarrel, and her action will be regarded, particularly in Australasia, with the profoundest suspicion and resentment. It can only be dictated by ulterior motives, and a desire to forestall Britain in the acquisition of Germany's possessions in the Pacific Nor is there any reason to suppose that Japan would content herself with taking Kaio-chau. Why not expeditions to German New Guinea, the Marshall Islands, New Britain, and Samoa? Clearly Japan is out lor what she can pick up, and not because of any desire to help Britain in the present crisis. Russia is too busy to protest at present, whatever she may have to say afterwards, and the only Power with extensive interests in the Far East, and which is free to look after them, is America. Japan's activity is no doubt being duly noted at Washington, and in the scramble for Germany's Eastern trade and possessions the United States is entitled to be heard. It will be surprising, indeed, if Japan doesn't hear from her pretty soon, and unless she acts with a good deal of circumspection there will be more trouble in the Pacific at no distant data.