Japan would like some of the Dutch abundance (they grow rich on oil and rubber, fat on Bols gin and rijsttafel), and would brook no interference to her ambition to dominate the South Seas.

Life in The Netherlands Indies is abundant. Dutch colonials grow rich on oil and rubber, fat on Bols gin and rijsttafel (“rice-table,” a huge meal which requires a dozen natives to serve). Their activities at clubs are so serious as to be nearer worship than relaxation. The social hierarchy is…