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be found even a hint that a strike was ordered or a notification given of the intention to order a strike for the purpose of accomplishing any other result than that of securing the discharge of the members of the plaintiff association and the substitution of members of the defendant associations in their place. Such a purpose is not illegal within the rules laid down in the opinion of Judge Vann, nor within the authorities cited therein; on the contrary, such a motive is conceded to be a legal one. It is only where the sole purpose is to do injury to another, or the act is prompted by malice, that it is insisted that the act becomes illegal. No such motive is alleged in that finding. It is not hinted at. On the contrary, the motive which always underlies competition is asserted to have been the animating one. It is beyond the right and the power of this court to import into that finding, in contradiction of another finding or otherwise, the further finding that the motive which prompted the conduct of defendants was an uulawful one, prompted by malice and a desire to do injury to plaintiffs without benefitting the members of the defendant associations.

"I doubt if it would ever have occurred to anyone to claim that there was anything in that finding importing a different motive from that specially alleged in the finding, had not the draftsman characterized the notice given to the employers by the associations of their intention to strike as 'threats.'

"The defendant associations, as appears from the finding quoted, wanted to put their men in the place of certain men at work who were non-members working for smaller pay, and they set about doing it in a perfectly lawful way. They determined that if it were necessary they would bear the burden and expense of a strike to accomplish that result, and in so determining they were clearly within their rights, as all agree. They could have gone upon a strike without offering any explanation until the contractors should have come in distress to the officers of the associations asking the reason for the strike. Then, after explanations, the non-members would have been discharged and the men of defendant associations sent back to work. Instead of taking that course, they chose to inform the contractors of their determination and the reason for it.

"It is the giving of this information, a simple notification of their determination, which it was right and proper and reasonable to give, that has been characterized as threats' by the Special Term, and which has led to no inconsiderable amount of misunderstanding

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since. But the sense in which the word was employed by the court is of no consequence, for the defendant associations had the absolute right to threaten to do that which they had the right to do. Having the right to insist that plaintiff's men be discharged and defendants' men put in their place if the services of the other members of the organization were to be retained, they also had the right to threaten that none of their men would stay unless their members could have all the work there was to do. "A man has a right under the law to start a store and sell at such reduced prices that he is able in a short time to drive the other storekeepers in his vicinity out of business, when, having possession of the trade, he finds himself soon able to recover the loss sustained while ruining the others. Such has been the law for centuries. The reason, of course, is that the doctrine has generally been accepted that free competition is worth more to society than it costs, and that, on this ground, the infliction of damages is privileged.

"Nor could this storekeeper be prevented from carrying out his scheme because, instead of hiding his purpose, he openly declared to those storekeepers that he intended to drive them out of business in order that he might later profit thereby. Nor would it avail such storekeepers, in the event of their bringing an action to restrain him from accomplishing their ruin by underselling them, to persuade the trial court to characterize the notification as a 'threat,' for on review the answer would be: A man may threaten to do that which the law says he may do, provided that, within the rules laid down in those cases, his motive is to help himself.

"A labor organization is endowed with precisely the same legal right as is an individual to threaten to do that which it may lawfully do."

Chief Justice Parker's decision appeals to us as logical in every line. So clearly has he drawn his conclusions and so carefully has he brought out every point in opposition to Judge Vann that its fairness stands forth resplendent in every line. It appears to be characteristic of some of our judges to render their decisions within certain applications that have come down to them never looking for the broad sense of the law which gives to all alike the same advantage. If our next congress would be guided by the opinion of Chief Justice Parker in framing a law "to limit the meaning of the word conspiracy" it

would make no mistake. In all great events upon history's pages we find wherein some master mind has arisen to point out the course. The necessity of a master mind now presents itself to point out the course congress should

take to relieve us of the hardships that are being imposed upon us while we are striving to obtain under the last resort we have-the strike. We earnestly hope that Chief Justice Parker may prove to be that man.

The Course That Will Lead To Victory.

The Independent publishes an opinion on the condition of the coal strike which is clothed in common sense from beginning to end and meets our approval entirely. It says, in part:

Let the mine workers at the convention, provided a settlement is not reached beforehand, declare to the world that they have entered upon contracts which they consider sacred; that they have struggled for years to secure these contracts, and now have the satisfaction of knowing that their employers, who resisted them even more bitterly than the anthracite operators, heartily acknowledge that by means of them their business is more prosperous and reliable than before. Let the mine workers declare that they do not intend to throw all classes of workmen out of employment by stopping the supply of coal contrary to their agreements. Let them indorse the strike of the anthracite workers and show that bituminous workmen are earning 20 per cent. to 50 per cent higher wages for similar work secured through their organization. Then let them assess all bituminous workers 25 per cent. of their wages, to be collected every pay day, to support their anthracite brethren. A self assessment of this amount on the 200,000 bituminous miners would yield fully $500,000 each week. Let the mine workers appeal to other wage earners who are permitted to continue work because the mine workers continue to furnish coal. Let them appeal to the general public, which dreads the prospect of another twenty years of oppression in the anthracite mines like that which preceded the strike of 1900. That this appeal would not be in vain is warranted by the successful strike of the miserable dock

workers of London in 1889, when a committee, with Cardinal Manning as a member, secured in contributions over $200,000.

The strength of a stand like this by the mine workers ought to appear, from their standpoint alone, as incomparably greater than that of a sympathetic strike. It would be a noble guaranty to the world that labor unions can be trusted. Every union in other trades which now has trade agreements with its employers, would receive a body blow if the mine workers break their agreements. If trade unionism is really necessary for the protection of the workers, then it can be extended only by living up to the obligations which come with power. If it rests on force alone, and not also on conciliation and faithfulness to agreements, then it were better that the nation at large, along with all employers, should organize at once to meet this new despotism before it gets too strong. But, on the other hand, if a small group of employers, like the anthracite operators, refuse to Ideal with an honorable and responsible body of their employes, and proceed to drive them down to conditions of poverty under the false plea that they cannot be trusted, then the nation will join with the workers and come to their support. The mine workers can then accept the challenge to a mere test of endurance. Not only the mine workers, but all classes of labor and the general public are deeply interested in the decision of the coming convention. It is a vital question to all concerned whether the largest labor organization in the world will advance in the line of peaceful conquest through agreements or will attempt the violent policy of embroiling the entire country in its local affairs.

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This department is intended to serve the same purpose among the wives, mothers, daughters and sisters of our members that the Fraternal Department serves among our members. The rules at head of Fraternal Department will also apply to this one.

Editor Railway Conductor:

A very delightful meeting of the Ladies' Auxiliary to Order of Railway Conductors was held June 14. All day session was the program, and one we will not forget, at least for a while, as our Grand President, Mrs. J. H. Moore, of Toledo, Ohio, was with us, for which we feel highly honored. The day was very warm and our attendance was large, but not so many but that there was room for more. Those who did not come out to hear our Grand President made a very sad mistake, and in time to come may feel sorry they missed the opportunity. Our afternoon session was very enthusiastic. We had one new initiation and our Grand President gave us a good lesson for the good of the Order. No one can estimate the value and encouragement we received from the lesson she gave, only those who were there to hear. We cannot tell you-it was the same old story, the faithful few were there, and it calls to memory a verse or two written by Ella Wheeler Wilcox called, "Two Kinds of People."

"No, the two kinds of people on earth I mean, are the people who lift and the people who lean. Wherever you go, you will always find the world's masses are always divided in just these two classes; and oddly enough you will find, too, I ween, there is only one lifter to twenty who lean. In which class are you? Are you easing the load of over-taxed lifters who toil down the road? Or are you a leaner, who lets others bear your portion of labor and worry and care?"

While our Grand President and myself were at Palestine we were royally entertained at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Sleight, whose beautiful home with a lovely lawn is ideal for entertaining guests. The home was beautifully decorated with the colors of our Order. Everything possible was done for the pleasure and comfort for all. Saturday night a reception was given in the hall by the Auxiliary ladies from nine until eleven. Light refreshments were served. Sister Moore was presented with several little souvenirs in and out of the hall by different members of the Auxiliary. There being no program for the evening the time was spent socially so that our Grand President could become more acquainted with the members of Auxiliary 134, also Division 77, of which the faithful few were there. Sisters Curlin, Thrasher, Wilkins and Thomas, of Auxiliary 156, met with us and were entertained by friends while in Palestine. The ladies of Auxiliary 156 presented your humble servant with a picture

containing the members of their Auxiliary, for which I thank them and shall always hold it dear, as I appreciate the gift very much. Sister Anderson, as usual, was on hand with "Trilby," which did good work and saved many a long step through the heat of the sun and burning sand.

Sunday afternoon Sister Moore was driven about the city so that she might see for the first time Palestine. She was also driven out past Judge Reagan's home, who is the last and only member left of the Jefferson Davis cabinet, which place in time to come will be considered one of the leading sights to be seen in the city. Sister Moore left in the evening to visit Auxiliary 156. We hope to have her again with us sometime in the near future. In these days we cannot too closely cherish all the sacred memories and lofty adeals that are inter-woven in the Ladies' Auxiliary to the Order of Railway Conductors of America spoken by our Grand President.

Auxiliary 134 is still holding its own; once in awhile a new member will bob up and take the sacred vows of our Order.

Sister Sleight is contemplating a long journey to the Rocky Mountains for health and will be gone for a year. That is a long time, Sister, for you to be separated from your friends. I believe I would very much like to go along, and I think if I should come in contact with many more snakes and insane persons I will be ready for the journey by the time you leave. Ada Mitchel's death was indeed a very sad one, as also Mr. and Mrs. G. S. Noble's little daughter, Mary, whom all loved so dearly.

Brother and Sister Galoway have been blassed with another boy-God bless him. Wishing all Auxiliaries good luck this year, and should any Sisters come this way I would gladly welcome them. God bless each and all.

I would like the address of the "Carter family." who left Salt Lake early in the spring for Helena, Mont. Henderson, Tex.

Editor Railway Conductor:

MRS. F. A. NOBLE.

The election of officers of Auxiliary 88 passed off very pleasantly. The Auxiliary held public installation. The Brothers of 172 were invited to be present to witness their work. Immediately after installation the newly installed President, Sister Lucket, presented Past President Sister Maffit with a handsome rocking chair as a token of love and esteem in which

she is held by them. In accepting the gift Sister Maffit said her heart was in the work and offered many thanks to the Auxiliary. After the presentation all did justice to a very inviting luncheon. After all appetites had been satisfied they all returned to their homes, wishing we would have many more such gatherings.

Brother Dushane presented the Auxiliary with a handsome lamp. It was decided by the Auxiliary to raffle it off. Sister Smith and Sister Merritts were the Sisters who did the work. Sister Smith having the larger sum of money, she was entitled to the lamp. Sister Merritts was presented with a set of doylies. Both were well pleased. We are working to swell our treasury, but not for glory. Sister Watt, of Gallitizen, presented the Auxiliary with a very nice quilt to be chanced off. Come, Sisters, don't be afraid, and take a chance.

Now as the year is past six months, I will say all members stand by your officers, help with the work and we will swell in number and prosper in the treasury. Members should turn out promptly; it makes the meetings more interesting to have a large number present. We have some who don't attend for various reasons, but we are still waiting for them. Sister Grove and Sister McCuredy have been on the sick list, but are improving. Hoping that all members shall have been restored to good health ere this and wishing all Auxiliaries a most successful MRS. JENNIE D. MAFFIT.

year.

Altoona, Penn.

Editor Railway Conductor:

It is with pleasure I announce to the readers of THE CONDUCTOR that Auxiliary 9 is increasing in membership. The Alleghany Sisters held a measuring social which was a success and added quite a sum to our treasury. The reception held at Pitcairn by Brothers and Sisters Neff and Early for the benefit of our convention fund was a success socially and financially. We are not lacking in what so many of our sister Auxiliaries are complaining of-poor attendance. We always have a large attendance. Just at present we are looking forward to our annual picnic to be held at Kennywood Park on July 31. All the Brothers and Sisters are invited. I have surely appreciated the kindness of the Sisters of Auxiliary 9. My thanks are due the Auxiliary for flowers and delicacies during my sickness, which is an excuse for my negligence as correspondent. With kind wishes to all O. R. C. and L. A. Divisions. Pittsburg, Pa.

MRS. PHILIP MOONLY.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Our school of instruction of which I spoke in my last letter was, I am safe to say, enjoyed by all and proved a source of great benefit to us as well as Division 79, who joined us. It is with many regrets your correspondent must say she was not able to attend only the opening session of our school as we were moving in our home at that time, and the Sisters will all agree it would

not be the proper thing to leave a husband at such a time to attend the school if you expected to find him good natured on your return. Therefore, I am not able to give to our Sister Auxiliaries much that transpired, but feel safe to say the work was all gone through with nicely before our Grand President bade us adieu, as she never leaves her work half done, and believes in the saying, "If you want a thing well done, do it yourself." I notice the sisters are quite free to criticise since the school, and it appears to me they behaved very nicely and are endeavoring to carry ont Sister Moore's instructions to the best of their ability.

Another new member was iniatiated at our last meeting. One by one we are gathering them in and our meetings are growing in interest each month. Sisters who stay away from the the lodge room on meeting day are sure to miss ever so much which would benefit them in some ways, and every floor member in attendance gives our officers added encouragement to do their work.

Where is our brother correspondent of Division No. 2? Are you laying off or are you simply failing to perform your duties as correspondent? Nothing has been heard of the Division through the Fraternal columns this year. Let us hear from you, for you certainly are doing a work which is deserving of mention.

Do not have our summer with its pleasure draw us from our meetings, but those who do not leave the city for the summer months work all the harder to make up for what the other good sisters would do were they here. With best wishes to all Auxiliaries.

Buffalo, N. Y.

MRS. E. B. MATTESON.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Auxiliary 57 is still progressing slowly. We are expecting and working to increase our membership before the coming of the convention. We desire to make the visit to our Smoky City of all the Brothers and Sisters one to be remembered. Sister Riley and Sister Dunlap of Auxiliary 96 visit us occasionally, and the visits we enjoy. Sister Heacock of our Auxiliary celebrated the twentieth anniversary of her marriage. An invitation was extended to Brothers and Sisters of Division 281 and Auxiliary 57, together with other friends. The invitation was accepted by a majority of the Brothers and Sisters and an excellent time was participated in. Sister Heacock was the recipient of many costly presents. After enjoying a gorgeous repast and the hospitality of our worthy Sister, we wished them many happy anniversaries and that Auxiliary 57 may be invited to all and grow in membership as the years go by. We also held a benefit euchre at Sister W. S. Harley, our president's, home. This event was one of success in every way. Regardless of the inclemency of the weather, about sixty couple were present and an enjoyable time was had by all-Brother Harley, C. C., of 281 included. There were eight prizes awarded, of which

Brother Harley received the first. We are so satisfied with the success and pleasure we received that we are inclined to believe Brother Harley will throw his doors open to us at least once a month. Sister Harley makes a first-class hostess on all occasions. In conclusion, I offer the best wishes of Auxiliary 57 for a prosperous period for all sister auxiliaries. MRS. W. M. SHIPLEY.

Pittsburg, Pa.

Editor Railway Conductor:

About March 15th, Mrs. R. W. Kelly and Mrs. T. Abernathy decided to try and organize a ladies Auxiliary to the Order of Railway Conductors, and circulated a petition, getting twenty names. Then they called a meeting and appointed Mrs. R. W. Kelly secretary pro tem, and she sent names and petition for a charter. On April 13th we called another meeting to elect officers. Mrs. Emma Kelly was elected president and Mrs. Mary E. Stowe secretary. On April 19th we gave an ice cream social, and collected a snug little sum of $37.75 for our new treasurer. And on May 1st we were duly organized by Deputy Grand Organizer, Mrs. J. F. Ingraham of Ft. Worth, Tex. In the evening we gave a public installation of officers. Mrs. Ingraham gave a short address, which was appreciated by all; also Brother Parmeley, chief of 394, and others. Refreshments were served to all and each had a jolly good time, after which our grand organizer was escorted to the M., K. & T. depot by her many friends. The visitors all wished Wynoma Division 162 of South McAlester, I. T., first and only Auxiliary in the grand and glorious Indian Territory, all success. On May the 15th, we asked for a special dispensation to elect members of Shawnee, O. T. Our visiting members were Mrs. Freeman of Auxiliary 85 and Mrs. Callahan of Auxiliary 147. It was surely a jolly crowd of Shawnee people.

Trusting that all L. A.'s and O. R. C.'s will have a prosperous year.

South McAlester, I. T.

MRS. CLARA STONE.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Auxiliary 93 is prospering very well. Three regular meeting days have been carried on with a good number of Sisters present.

A School of Instruction was held in Boston, Mass., May 1st and 2nd. Fourteen of our members had the pleasure of attending the meeting, which was held with Auxiliary No. 93. Am sorry to say your correspondent was detained on account of sickness and death in her family. The meeting was enjoyed immensely by those who participated, I am told. Our grand president was with them and gave them lots of valuable instruction, beside greeting them all in her usual kind manner. The ladies of Auxiliary 59 entertained the visiting members so exquisitely that our Auxiliary took the earliest opportunity to return kindness to them, and invited them to visit 93 at Concord June 3d.

Twenty-five responded to the invitation, were

present at our regular meeting, dined with us, and afterward took a trolley ride out to contoocook River park, then back to the city. As some of the ladies began to feel a bit thirsty, the soda fountain poured out some of the finest drinks for a crowd imaginable. We then escorted our visitors to the station, and after adieus and farewells we stopped and wondered if they wouldn't "ask us down" to Boston before long.

I will endeavor to give you a report of our memorial service. A vote was taken by Division 335 to invite the Sisters to join them for the purpose of holding this service. Sunday, June 15th, at 2:00 p. m. twenty Brothers and Sisters of the O. R. C. and L. A. to O. R. C. assembled at Capitol Hall. Five vacant chairs were placed side by side, decorated with flowers and tied with white ribbon to remind us that as many of the faithful boys had passed down to the "peaceful valley" to receive their reward. A program had been arranged that was carried out in a very appropriate and impressive manner amid great sadness. After the exercises a roster of the dead was read, with impressive eulogies to each. And for those conductors and wives that assembled at Capitol Hall for that memorial service, I will add, surely the master will keep record and it will be treasured in Heaven.

Concord, N. H.

MARY ELIZABETH COLE.

Editor Railway Conductor: Auxiliary 128 must be in a flourishing condition, as on the evening of June 3d, at the home of Mrs. A. E. King, senior sister, they gave a lawn social, serving over one hundred people with ice cream and cake. Through the courtesy of the mechanical department, the lawn was handsomely decorated with the colors of the order, represented by lanterns, and brilliantly lighted with headlights. Music was furnished by the Mandolin Club. Many of the young people took advantage of it to trip the light fantastic, while in an adjoining room card playing was carried on. We understand the committee have a snug sum to replenish their treasury after paying all expenses. All expressed themselves as highly pleased with their evening's entertainment. Come again, Sisters, and don't wait too long. AN ONLOOKER.

Dodge City, Kan.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Auxiliary 86 elected officers in January for the new year and we are progressing nicely. Our president, Sister Tanney, is not with us as much as we would like, on account of ill health. Our former president, Sister Heagy, attended the Union meeting at Kansas City.

We gave a farewell party to Sister Dodge at Sister Warren's house. We regret very much to lose Sister Dodge, but hope she will find as many new friends in Minnesota as she leaves old ones behind. Sister Averill is talking of leaving us too, but we hope Brother Averill will decide to remain here, as Sister Averill has always been a good member and she would be greatly missed.

We still continue to have our Kensingtons

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