Chris, perhaps your memory is at fault, because I am sure you remember that we updated our mission statement while you were still on staff, some years ago, and that it is free access on the "about the journal" page here: http://www.nature.com/nature/about/index.html
Nature's mission statement
First, to serve scientists through prompt publication of significant advances in any branch of science, and to provide a forum for the reporting and discussion of news and issues concerning science. Second, to ensure that the results of science are rapidly disseminated to the public throughout the world, in a fashion that conveys their significance for knowledge, culture and daily life.

What has been corrected is the "original" mission statement.

You also missed that the editorial is not closed access but is open at
http://blogs.nature.com/nautilus/2007/08/women_and_men_of_science.html

best wishes
Maxine.