Dr. Bose then came back to India, in June 1915, _via_ Japan. During his
stay, in Japan, he acquainted himself with the efforts of the people and
their aspirations towards a great future. He found that, "in
materialistic efficiency, which, in a mechanical era, is regarded as an
index of civilisation, they have surpassed their German teachers. A few
decades ago, they had no foreign shipping and no manufactures. But,
within an incredibly short time, their magnificent lines of steamers
have proved so formidable a competitor that the great American lines in
the Pacific will soon be compelled to stop their sailings. Their
industries again, through the wise help of the State and other
adventitious aids, are capturing foreign markets. But far more admirable
is their foresight to save their country from any embroilment with other
nations with whom they want to live in peace. And they realise that any
predominant interest of a foreign country in their trade or manufacture
is sure to lead to misunderstanding and friction. Actuated by this
idea, they have practically excluded all foreign manufactured articles
by prohibitive tariffs."[40] "Is our country slow to realise the danger"
asks Dr. Bose "that threatens her by the capture of her market and the
total destruction of her industries? Does she not realise that it is
helpless passivity that directly provokes aggression?... There is,
therefore, no time to be lost and the utmost effort is demanded of the
Government and the people for the revival of our industries...."[41]