_N 'OW that the Administration has officially proposed that we join the countries which have signed the protocol putting into force the statute of the Permanent Court of International Justice, it seems proper to examine in some detail what it is that we are to expect from such a step. To determine whether it is a desirable step or not, we are justified in looking beneath the surface of the plausible arguments advanced by advocates and opponents of the proposed undertaking, in order to decide our action on its merits and not on sentimental hopes or fears. For that reason it is proposed to examine somewhat critically the powers of the newly created Court, its relation to similar institutions already in existence and in what respect the new Court may be regarded as a step in advance. On examining the new Court in the light of history and experience, we may be in a better position to judge the case on its merits. We are informed by the advocates of our "joining" the Court that the new international Court is a cherished Ameri-