The next three photos suggest why Laurier's dream never materialized. This 1907 photo captured together the two chief props of Japanese immigration -- the representative of the powerful Japanese imperial government and the Canadian employer of Asian labour. The Laurier government showed General Baron Kuroki, personal representative of the Emperor, all the courtesies extended to the high officials of most favoured nations. Lieutenant-Governor, James Dunsmuir, walking beside Kinroki, had served previously as premier of the province and, as a large colliery owner, was a conspicuous employer of Oriental Iabour. Dunsmuir, by refusing assent to a bill refusing admission to immigrants unable to speak a European language, infuriated anti-Asian spokesmen and convinced them to demonstrate their concern.
