Explanation of cartoon
Here, Secretary of State John Hay, depicted wearing the American hat, is sealing the deal with the great powers of Europe for the Open Door policy. They would now all have access to China's markets with fair competition and no monopolies. They also promised to respect certain Chinese rights. However, the Chinese man to the right is confused because Hay hasn't talked to the Chinese about his plan.
background
Europe was increasingly becoming interested in China and began to claim land and economic spheres of influence in the country. America was worried about the dividing of China because of possible European monopolies in the Chinese markets. America was also worried about their missionary strongholds in the country. Secretary of State John Hay created the Open Door policy in which the great powers would respect certain Chinese rights and have fair competition in the Chinese markets. The Chinese weren't consulted about this policy, however.