Chapter 12
The Secret Service of Japan“Three years ago,” Mr. Katahashi
proceeded, “when we first recognized that Japan would be obliged to
fight Russia for her existence as a free and independent country,
his imperial majesty the Mikado appointed me head of the
intelligence department.
“I perceived that it would be necessary for me to establish
centers in the chief European capitals, and to have at my command a
corps of agents whose comings and goings would not attract the
attention that is usually given to the movements of persons
connected with the staff of an embassy.
“In our case precautions were necessary which would not have
been recognized in the case of another country.
“On the one hand, our Government has laid to heart the profound
advice of Herbert Spencer, that wha
