Speech, of Mr. Knox at a luncheon given by him on board the “Maryland” at Amapala, Honduras, March 9, 1912.
Ladies and Gentlemen: I wish, on my own behalf and on behalf of my party, to express our appreciation of the friendliness and hospitality that we have received since we have been here, and this afternoon I want to especially acknowledge our appreciation of that test of good will which is evidenced by the long journey that those among you have made from the capital city, to the coast under most trying circumstances. I do not know of a higher test of friendship than the one which you have thus given us. Our reception in Honduras has been especially pleasing. Indeed, I might almost say that nothing could excel the kindliness that has been shown to me and to my party since we reached Central America. There is one thing that I can imagine might excel it, and that is the malice and wickedness with which those who desire to prevent closer relations between the United States and Central America have, through false reports, endeavored to create the impression that the Central American people have not received this mission with kindliness and with sympathy. When I get back to my Government my report shall be that up to the time that we have left Amapala not a single incident has marred the pleasure of our visit, not a single thing in the way of bounteous and generous hospitality has been lacking, and that we shall all feel that this visit has been worth much to us and we hope it has been worth something to you. As I started out to say, I want this afternoon to express my special appreciation to those who have come from Tegucigalpa here to meet us, and I propose their health, their long life, their prosperity, and their happiness.