was the very antithesis of the bill introduced and, naturally, organized labor rebelled against its passage. If the press throughout the country

will take the same position as the Record-Herald, the Senate will have no difficulty in seeing their way clear to pass the original bill.

An order has been promulgated by President Roosevelt that brought a feeling of general dismay to government employes who have been in the habit of ignoring the head of their respective departments in securing increases in salary.

The order reads:

"All officers and employes of the United States, of every description, serving in or under any of the executive departments, and whether so serving in or out of Washington, are hereby forbidden, either directly or indirectly, individually or through associations, to solicit an increase of pay or to influence or attempt to influence in their own interests, any legislation whatever, either before congress or its committees, or in any way serve through the heads of the department in or under which they serve, on penalty of dismissal from the government service."

On the face of the above order it appears drastic in the extreme, but when the government policy is examined on

other lines it will be seen that President Roosevelt's order is in perfect harmony with it. If the head of the department is to be ignored he can have no discipline, no organization and cannot receive results expected.

The order hits various post-office employes who had been asking congress for an increase of their pay, and also the men in the revenue cutter service. the pharmacists in the marine hospital service, and other classes of government employes who have been trying to induce congress to raise their salaries.

We see no injustice that can come to government employes out of this order unless the heads of the respective departments ignore the petitions which have heretofore been addressed to congress. The possibilities in this connection seem limited, however, and in our opinion there can come no hardship from a literal observance of the order.

Is it worth while that you jostle a brother
Bearing his load on the rough road of life?

Is it worth while that we jeer at each other
In blackness of heart? that we war to the knife?
O, pity us all in our pitiful strife.

Pity us all that we jostle each other!

Pardon us all for the triumphs we feel

When a fellow goes down 'neath his load on the heather,

Pierced to the heart! Words are keener than steel,

And mightier far for woe or for weal!

Were it not well in this brief little journey
On over the isthmus down into the tide,
We give him a fish instead of a serpent
Ere folding his hands to be and abide
Forever and eye in the dust at his side?

Look at the roses saluting each other,

Look at the herds all at peace on the plain; Man and man only makes war on his brother, And laughs in his heart at his peril and

pain,

Shamed by the beasts that go down on the plain.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Fidelity Auxiliary 158 is the name adopted by the L. A. to the Order of Railway Conductors at Chillicothe, Ills., and the same was duly organized March 3rd, the work being explained and exemplified by Mrs. Sewell of Chicago and Mrs, Clendennen of Streator, the former being deputy organizer and the latter Grand Marshal of the Order. The same evening a public installation of officers was held, followed by a banquet which was a subject of congratulation to each member. The tables were beautifully decorated and arranged and presented a very inviting appearance. It was estimated that one hundred railroad men with their wives and friends participated. Mrs. W. L. Anderson was elected President and Mrs. Frank Sorrick, Secretary and Treasurer. Prior to the banquet the members of the organization listened to some very entertaining speeches, which were admired and appreciated.

Our organization opens with twenty-one members under very flattering prospects for success. The officers elected are able and willing to do good work, and the entire organization is composed of good, womanly women who start in earnestly to work for the good of the O. R. C. and the Ladies' Auxiliary. Fidelity Lodge No. 158 wishes very earnestly to thank the O. R. C. for the many favors shown them in this, the beginning of their career, and especially Messrs. Thorpe, Breese and Drake for their untiring efforts in overcoming all obstacles that stood in the way of organizing the Auxiliary. The Order assumed the expense of our banquet and furnished us the hall for a year. For all such substantial favors, besides many little acts of kindness, we are deeply grateful.

Our trainmaster's wife, Mrs. Saunders, has been quite ill for some time but, I am happy to say, is improving. In closing let me say a few words in appreciation of our motto-Charity, Truth and Friendship. This embraces the essence of perfection. We should endeavor to keep this motto before our eyes and bind it on our heart and if at any time there arises (as there is apt to do) a spirit of criticism or faultfinding, let us not give way to it until every word our motto contains is brought to bear upon it. Many centuries ago it was written, "There is none perfect-no, not one," and through all the years that have come and gone since then time has not withered nor has age decayed that truth. Charity covereth a multitude of sins-so

Editor Railway Conductor:

The conductors have given up the hall they occupied for so many years, and moved into a more modern and less expensive one. The old saying is, "Beggars must not be choosers," so we accept the quarters with them as we get the hall free of rent. It was like leaving home, as we organized there five years ago with seventeen charter members. We now have a membership of thirty-six. Several of the Sisters have moved away within the past few months and will be greatly missed-one of them, Sister Ruppe, our musician. When we were organizing some of the good Brothers gave us six months to live in harmony, others a year (and, by the way, I will not have to leave home to find one of them). It has proven that the older we grow the more dear we are to each other in cares and troubles. As one let me make mention of our Secretary and Treasurer, who is ever ready with hand and purse to do good for others.

In December we gave the Order of Railway Conductors a turkey supper, which was enjoyed by all. Although the coldest day of the year Brother and Sister White came twenty-two miles and went home at midnight. That was a journey a great many would not venture to make. When we have installation I think the Brothers must forget, but a more generous body of men could not be found.

On May 17 we are to give a social and dance, and am sure it will be a success as the committee in charge are all business. We had two dinners and social afternoons with Sisters Trahy and Wolfe. Now that the busy time has come to the housewife I do not think we will have any W. A. CHITTENDEN.

more.

Aurora, Ill.

Editor Railway Conductor:

On April 17, 1902, Auxiliary 36 gave a ball which was a grand success. Being an Auxiliary to Division 56 we expected them over in a body but if it had not been for Brother J. K. Allyn and wife who came from Buffalo, Division 56 would not have been represented. Brother Lundrigan and wife also came from Buffalo, and

also Brother C. Meyers and wife from Division 54 were with us. The Sisters of Auxiliary 36 must have had engagements for the 17th of their own, as only eight Sisters were in attendance. Brothers Randall, Hoogkamp and Kilmer were the extent of Division 359, but they did their part and we appreciate it. Brother Hoogkamp acted as Chief, and you ought to have heard him. Brother Kilmer attended the door and Brother Randall waited on the ladies. (He's just O. K.)

Mrs. G. W. We are very We are ex

Our Secretary and Treasurer, Hearsh, is moving to New York. sorry, but hope it is for the best. pecting two new applications, and I hope a great many more as we have been very quiet, there having been a great deal of sickness. We are hoping the year 1902 will prove more prosperous. We were very much pleased to meet Brother and Sister Lundrigan. We are always pleased to meet any Brother or Sister from out of town, as they are always welcome. Albany, N. Y.

MRS. J. P. KILMER.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Auxiliary 51 is proud of our past year and started out this year in a flourishing condition, and have well-attended meetings. At this writing we have heard that we are to lose two of our Sisters. Sisters Hibbinger and Devitt are expecting to move away. Sister Miller, who has been home on a visit, leaves the 14th for the southwest to join her husband. We are glad to welcome back to our meetings our Past President, Sister Bonter, who is recovering from a severe illness.

At our last meeting we were very much surprised to receive a communication from Brothers Bonter and McArdle stating they had secured the names of seven ladies who wished to become members of our Order. Accordingly, Sister Bonter was granted seven petitions. That's right, Brothers, let the good work go on. I understand when these Brothers get the names of three more, making ten in all, Auxiliary 51 is to give them a banquet. This goes to show we only need to do a little hustling and we can increase our membership.

On the 11th of this month Division 119 and Auxiliary 51 gave a progressive pedro party at hall. Our aid society, which meets once a month, was entertained last month by Sisters Coleman and Brill, and this month by Sisters Grout and Stump, and all who do not attend these meetings miss good times. wishes to all.

Ft. Wayne, Ind.

Editor Railway Conductor:

With best SUSIE.

Auxiliary 79 continues to prosper. We are to initiate a new member at our next regular meeting. Two meetings were held during March. At the first one we missed a great many of our Sisters. Our Secretary, Sister Connors, read a communication from Sister Moore, Grand President, asking us if we would have the union school of instruction in Rochester some time in April. Our President put it before the Auxil

iary. The result was that our Secretary was instructed to say that as our Auxiliary is small we felt that we couldn't afford it just now. Some of our Sisters attended the school at Elmira and interested us very much while explaining what they learned while there, and as it is just what we all need the entire Auxiliary will attend at least one day wherever the school will be held next month. We think we are never too old to learn, especially anything that will help us with our work. MRS. J. J. CLEARY. Rochester, N. Y.

Editor Railway Conductor:

After an absence of three months in San Diego, Cal., the delightful city so perfectly described in December CONDUCTOR, I am pleased to be home and with the Sisters. Auxiliary 11 held their regular meeting April 2nd, and it is very encouraging to see the interest manifested. Also the improvement in attendance. So many being out of the city during the winter, on returning are taking up the work with renewed interest. Sister Deniston was quite ill, but is able to meet with us again, and it is a pleasure to see her in her chair. We are preparing for our tenth annual hop in May, with our usual good time and large crowd. If we could have these socials oftener how much nicer it would be! We ac cept with pleasure the invitation from Auxiliary 68 to attend the school of instruction, and we wish it were possible for every member to attend. We need these instructions if we wish to advance. MRS. L. C. MUSSER.

St. Louis, Mo.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Auxiliary 24 elected officers in January for the new year. Although we are a small Auxiliary, we can keep on time and are ready to move along with the leader. We have lost a few members by transfer, but their vacant places have been filled by new ones. We have an application to work on next meeting day and prospects of two more soon. As the severe winter weather is about over we expect to have a better attendance. We are all glad to get out in the sunshine, so a walk to the lodge room will be nice exercise.

We are very sorry for the death of Sister Lea H. Shaffer, of Auxiliary 88, as she was one of our charter members.

Sister Reynolds is in very poor health, has been confined to her room for four or five months. We all hope for her speedy recovery. With best wishes to all sister Auxiliaries and O. R. C. CORRESPONDENT. Derry, Pa.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Auxiliary 39 is progressing nicely with a splendid corps of officers for 1902. Officers were installed the first meeting in January, and this was quite a pleasant affair, as we had invited the conductors of Division 149 to be with us after the installation ceremony was over. We indulged in the very amusing game of

"carrying the beans." All seemed to enjoy this game and each one tried for the prize, but Sister Calahan was the successful winner. The prize was a beautiful point lace collar. After this we served an elegant lunch, which was enjoyed as much as the game. In fact, when we assemble in our hall in social session we forget that there is anything else but pleasure for us, and as the hours draw to a close we feel more united than ever. Our meetings are very well attended, and now as the disagreeable winter has passed we hope to go to work with renewed energy and make 1902 a most successful year. Wishing for each O. R. C. and their Auxiliary a pleasant and profitable year. MRS. P. B. WILKINSON.

Jackson, Tenn.

Editor Railway Conductor:

We are glad to have Sister Whiteman with us again, she having been confined to her home by sickness for a couple of months. Sister Yeager invited the Ladies' Anxiliary to come to her house on April 3rd to do some quilting. Of course they accepted the invitation when they were told they would get a free supper. Also, on April 17th Sister Randall invited them to her house for a similar event. The writer regrets her absence to indulge in the festivities at the above places on account of moving to Lewistown. MRS. HARRY RIDDLE.

Sunbury, Pa.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Items of interest are as scarce as hen's teeth. We have a very small membership, and at the same time have some of of the stay-aways and drones, but we have the promise of a better attendance for the ensuing year, as one of our Sisters says she has just awoke from a long sleep and will be an active member from now on. Let the other Sisters follow her example and do likewise. We had the pleasure of a visit from three of our Sunbury Sisters. We enjoyed the few hours spent together very much. Come again, Sisters.

With best wishes for all Ladies' Auxiliaries and O. R. C. Divisions. MRS. F. H. FEY.

Renovo, Pa.

Editor Railway Conductor:

It is a great pleasure to me to introduce to Brothers and Sisters and all readers of our highly prized CONDUCTOR, High Rock Auxiliary 160, L. A. to O. R. C., which was organized on April 9th, in the hall of Division 354, O. R. C., by Sister L. H. Bender, assisted by Sisters Bixley, Cox, Curran and Clabaugh of Auxiliary 81 of Baltimore. Much credit is due Sisters Wooden and Blair for their never tiring efforts in secura sufficient number of charter members. And their reward was success.

We had public installation in the evening and had a very good attendance of Brothers of Division 354.

Our organizer, Sister Bender, convinced us she was master of the situation. After the installation we had music and recitations and a fervent welcome by Brother H. C. Wolf, Chief

of Division 354. Refreshments were then served and all enjoyed themselves immensely. We are scheduled to meet the second and fourth Thursdays of each month in the hall of Division 354. We held our first regular meeting on the 24th, and all went well. The Sisters seem to be interested, and I feel confident that all will go well with us. We have a membership of fifteen, all charter member, but hope for our ranks to be increased by others who are eligible to membership who did not come in as charter members.

Now, we appeal to the conductors' wives of Hagerstown to come join us. We need you. Our main purport is that we can be so situated that by various honorable and prudent means we can be a support and some assistance to the branch of labor organization which it becomes us our duty as beneficiaries.

We are all beneficiaries, that is an undeniable fact, and we should strive to do what it is our duty to do in the way of rendering help. Ladies, whose husbands are members, you should come and join us. We will treat you right. Let not some small imaginary object be your excuse and reason for staying out. We know it isn't the financial pull that is your reason. Make up your mind and join us. Hagerstown, Md.

Editor Railway Conductor:

MRS. T. B. DAVIS.

Since our last meeting in March our Auxiliary has increased three in number-Mesdames Morser, Boden and Bronick have made themselves a part of us. At our last meeting in March we were pleasantly entertained by music and solos rendered by local talent, after which refreshments were served. A quilt was finished and sent to the Home, the top of which (quilt) was donated by Sister Babcock, who is a faithful attendant, as well as some others that belong to Auxiliary 41. If the Sisters were all as faithful we would have a grand good lodge, but under the present circumstances we are getting along nicely, and I do so wish the Sisters would make attending the meetings a part of themselves and consider it a duty that they owe to themselves as well as to the Order. Auxiliary 41 presented Sister Ball, our retiring President, with a Past President's pin as a remembrance of her appreciated kindness and service. Sister Ball responded thankfully in a few well chosen words. Auxiliary 41 could well thank Sister Ball for her regular attendance during her term of office, for she was faithful and prompt as could beland is now. Wishing all Auxiliaries God speed and success to Railway Conductors and THE RAILWAY CONDUCTOR. Pueblo, Colo.

Editor Railway Conductor:

MRS. PHIL SMITH.

Am pleased to say Auxiliary 68 is getting along fine. We are getting ready for union meeting, which, of course, keeps us busy. The meeting is to be held on the 5th, 6th and 7th of June. We hope all members who see this will be present. Our committee has tried to notify

all Auxiliaries within a certain radius of Kansas City. If any failed to get notice, you will please read this and be with us. Grand President Sister Moore will be with us, and great good can only result from our coming together. Division 55 have, as usual, been very kind to us in offering us their hall for this occasion, which we accept with many thanks. With greetings to every Sister and every Division, we will hope to meet many of you soon. Kansas City, Mo.

Editor Railway Conductor:

MRS. H. C. SHIPP.

The members of Auxiliary 68, are arranging to hold a school of instruction in Kansas City, Mo., on June 5th and 6th. They will be assisted by Auxiliaries 17, 116, 126 and 128. Sister Moore, Grand President, will be with us. All members who can possibly do so, are cordially invited to attend. Hotel accommodations will be secured for all who desire them, by informing our Secretary. PEN.

Kansas City, Mo.

Editor Railway Conductor:

With four new members and two more for May our goat is working overtime. Socially we have not been idle. The card party at Sister Baldwin's was quite nice, and our annual ball was very swell. Sister Ives, as chairman, is deserving of great credit for her untiring efforts. Auxiliary 23 has been quite fortunate in entertaining Grand Officers. Sister Turner was our guest recently and gave us a good talk on the good of the Order. Come again, Sister Turner. Sister Higgins came our way last summer and was entertained nicely. It is supposed she reached home, as we have never heard of or from her since. Sister Graham desires to express her appreciation to Columbine Auxiliary for courtesies extended to her better half while ill at Salida hospital.

That is right; be good to the boys. There is no one better than our car hands. We expect to pay you a visit this summer and hope to find the latch string out.

The pleasure was ours of attending Grand Division in 1897 in the same party and found Brother Norton and wife very pleasant people to know. By the way, if any of that same party has an extra copy of the photograph taken at Multnomah Falls, Oregon, of the car and party, would be pleased to secure it as our copy failed to materialize.

Brother Theo. Johnson of Division 44 has been compelled by ill health to return to California, and we wish to say to all Sisters and Brothers who may meet him to extend to him the hand of fraternal friendship, even so will I do unto you. It is very sad to leave your home and friends and go forth among strangers. Nay, we will not say strangers, for during the year just passed when we were so fortunate as to accompany our "gude

mon" to the land of perpetual sunshine, we realized that fraternal love and sympathy was a visible article. Their hearts and homes were opened to the strangers at their gates, and many pleasant hours and congenial friendship was the result. A more faithful little band of workers than Auxiliary 84 cannot be found in the Order. Many of the older and larger Auxiliaries would do well to take them for example, especially their floor work. The pleasant smile, the cordial hand clasp, how much it means to the lonely hearts. Costing nothing, yet priceless, truly it is the coin of the realm. It is not to be wondered at that twice a month we trav eled twenty miles to meet with Division 111 and Auxiliary 84.

Dear "Angels," in spirit we are often with you -sharing your sorrows and joys. May your tribe increase. Many thanks, Brother Tamales, for the bouquet, but how about that rag social? Our costume will be scrumptious, and we hope to have the honor for the first cake walk. With best wishes to our absent Sisters, all L. A. and O. R. C. COLUMBINE.

Denver, Colo.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Auxiliary 126 is getting along nicely. Since my last write-up we have taken in several new members and are expecting still more. We gave our annual ball March 31 (Easter Monday), and had fine success. Sister Morse of Denver, Colo., was with us; visited us a week and had a pleasant time. Sister Underwood was the next one to serve. All turned out and had a nice time. She gave a penny game (to guess the most names on a penny), and our president, Sister Allen, won first prize, which was a China cup and saucer. Our vice-president, Sister Callahan, got the booby prize.

We are sorry to lose Sisters Rutter and Myers -Sister Rutter having moved to Caldwell, Kas., and Sister Myers to Kansas City, Mo. We wish them a pleasant life in their new homes. A bright blue-eyed baby girl came to brighten the home of Brother and Sister Stalker. The dear little angel was received with a great welcome. Brother and Sister Gudgel are also the proud parents of a baby girl-Sister Gudgel being so proud that she is going home on a visit next week. Sister Fletcher, who has been sick for almost two months, is able to be up and around: we hope she will get along nicely now. We presented her with a nice boquet of carnations which was highly appreciated. Our president presented Sisters Rutter and Myers with a past president's pin apiece, and Sisters Landy and Rathfan with a nice souvenir spoon. We also regret to lose Sister Marshall, she having moved to South Dakota. Brother and Sister Noah have just returned from a pleasure trip in the south visiting Birmingham and Memphis.

With best wishes to our Sister Auxiliaries and success to THE RAILWAY CONDUCTOR. Ft. Scott, Kans.

MRS. C. R. HAVERLY