Samuel Gompers Letterbooks volume 144 Jan. 8, 1909 - Feb. 10, 1909 ac. 13,745Anderson Chas 54 Appleton WM 58-576-899 Anderson R.E. 104 Anderson Percy L 114 Adams Emmett L. 135 Atchison Wm 153 American Publisher Ass. 162-765 Aves Ernest 183-188 Armstrong L. R. 219 Acton CJ 317 Andrews Geo 502 Atlantic Monthly Co 522 Abrahamson Simon 691 Albert Sam. L. 754 Atchley Jno. P 781 Alpine John 849 Atkinson Thos 853 Atherton Chas R 875 Adams Frederick 884 Alnti Antonio 969Bayer Jacob W 7 Barry Jas W. 37-631 Bausher C.H 112 Bain CL. 11-250-382-534-539-625-838-883 Bairn Edw. P. 152 Barnes J Mahlon 170-620-627 Bickerdike C. F. 184 Baker Charles 249-517 Bandlow Robert 258-259 Barondess Jos 305 552-924 Bill Jas F 436 Beals Chas O 539 Beach John K 569 Barr Frank 678-857 Baudreau Austin 686 Bailey Floyd 694 Beach W.B 780 Balhorn J.C. 802 Barnes Thos W. 874 Barnett H. T. 829 Bernard Florrey J 903 Beamish Rich J 928 Bierman G.M. 940 Alpine Jno. R 954 Berger Victor L 961 Bert Gev. J. 1000 Bacon Robr. 1026 Bramwood J. W. 9 - 459- Brandis Louis D. 24 - 150- Bowen Annie 25 - 893 - Brown M. 797- Bush Wm W. 50- Brown Jas 830- Boyle J. P.51 - Boyle H. L. 900- Bohn Ernest 126- 161- 325 617- 800- 815- Breitenstein [H. A.?] 151- Butler L. W. 971 Breen Paul 163- Bush Walter S 1004 Brown - Fred P. 204 - Bradford W. S. 1022-1027 Butler - L. W. 215 - Brown Maurice 1029 - 1030- [Blincoe?] Mrs. L. A. 248 - Brock - C. C. 256 - Blackey - E. W. 271 - 545 - Brown - P. A. 314 Burt - Jos. B. 363 Buffalo Republic - 365 Brick - Geo. H. - 416 Bray John E. 462 - 806 - 850 - Bradford W. J. 523 - Buchanan Frank L. 535 - Byrne Philip J. 547- [Buoch?] Geo. 567- Boyle W. W. 585 - Brown J. G. 602- 652- Bowen Wm J. 608- Boynton, Arthur J. 771- Burnell Chas. S. 933 Buckalow J. [?] 968 Catlin M. S. 4 - Cardozo E. S. 63-922 Cable J. A. 117-499 - Castiglione Palma G. E. di. 171-1025 Casson Herbert N. 178-367 Cahill J. R. 185 - Caulson C. A. 211 - Carpenter J. A. 255 - Carralin Edw. 339 Carey J. T. 496- 719 - Campbell E. B. 510- 527 - Campbell J. K. 581 - Carr Frederick W. 888 - Carroll John J. 1005-1006Collins Peter W. 10-331- 434 Connolly C. P. 97- Cohen Arthur 140 - Crunelle Andrew 207 - Collins C. G. 230 - Coe George A. 241 - Corder Miss Laura W. 277 - Colgan J. C. 292-516 - Collins D. J. 295 Culkins J. C. 307 Cotterill F. W. 337 476- Coon J. D. 378 Coberly E. W. 381 Cooper Ben. 400 Crouse M. 451 Cooney O. B. 489 - Crabtree Frank 524 - Clemens P. E. 557 - Clifford Eugene 615 - Coleman John 662 - Cope H. W. 690 - Craiger S. M. 732 - Crowley Chas 798. Cunelie Andrew 859- Collins C. G. 865 Cochran Arthur W. 1016Duffey, N.E. 6 Daily News Chicago Ill. 554 Denney, E.J. 14 Davis, W.A. 601 Doty, R.R. 17 Diefender, R.S. 610 Dietz, Ambrose 86 Davis Philip 626 Dobson Wm 100 Davis, J.P. Dempsey John 103 Dyche John A 608 De Nedrey Sam 108 Dickson Geo E. 701 Dafkowski Edw 113 Davis Chas E. 702 Douglas W.L. ??? Co 118 Donovan J.N. 709 Duffy Frank 131-351-466-704-843-1033 Duckworth R.F. 156 Dunham Sam, 721 Dunnigan Andrew P. 157 Denson H.L. 783 Doyle Thos. 159 Drake James B 1019 Dougherty, Harold 175 Dowd E.F. 197 Dorney John M 209 Denis-Herbert W. 260 Dase W.H. 262 Dowling John 208 D'Allessandro D. 274-412 629-909 Dixon Thos. Jr. 294 Driscoll D.D. 306 Dougherty J.W. 352 Day, Jesse L. 379 Duncan James 432 658-94? Denver Express 505 Davis H.H. 508 Eichelberger W.L. 2 812-941 Eagleson, Gilbert 42 Evans, George 196 Executive Council 300-309-384-455 533-562-597-599-632-683 Ellis T.A. 361 Evans E.L. 368 Edmunds, K.R. 373 Eastwold, M.B. 376 Easley, R.M. 454-920 Evans, W.C. 501 East Mary Burke Mrs. 616 Editor Evening Union 653 Ellerkamp, B.E. 832 Exton, Alfred J. 847 Executive Council A.F. of S. 914-983-984 985-983-984 Ellerson, W.L. 993Franklin J.G. 44-283 Friedander F.H 975 Finney Roft. L. 90- Flagler A. 121 Fox E.L 148- French A.M 202-657- Fagin H.L 251- Ford Joseph B. 275- Feener Frank -284 Fear Chas W. 287 751- Flood Emmet T. 329 Fischer Jacob - 355 Flannery P.J. 389 Fehlinger Hans - 409 Feinberg Yeo. 415 713- Fisher R.E 431 Fischer Jno. J. 467- Feeney Frank 485- Fimmer E.G. 497 Fitzgerald Mrs Susan W. 519- Fagin W.R. 645- Ford Cornelius 656- Freer Harry W. 663- Figilah W 679- France Eustare 698- Finch John 717- Freedman J 904 Frayme Hugh 946 Feeley Thomas 961Garretson A. B 72- Goodley L. F. 85- Guyer H. 93 - Gowen Chas R 133- Gallagher Andrew J. 160-359 609-760 76.9- Gahagou - M.J. 200- Gearicle - C.J. 245- Gray -Orvin B. 265= Gardner - W.J. 321 Gilthorpe - W.J. - 353-776-778-919 Glover - Chas. N - 354 Garren - A.W. -364 Gerber - Wm N. 372 Groshaus - Geo 426 Ginny Oliver 458- Grace Lawrence A. 518- Goodrell W.B. 590- Gilthorfee Wm J. 703- Gross Eli M. 749- Gutstadt Herman 764- Gueske Wm 901- Gompus Samuel 915-932-985 Grace Edward S. 936 Gordon A 994 Hawley J.J. 23-83- Henry, Jno. F - 775 Hart Frank P. 56- Hallhumer M. 885- Hebble Ora L 77- Hadlock F.P. 972 Hatch Jas H. 96- Harris J.R. 997 Hadaller Joshua 99- Hays. J.W. 999 Harper M. G. 1055 Heritage C.E. 1034 Hartman Robt. M. 106- Hall Roderich J. 109- [*HA*] Harris Daniel 111- Hart Lee M 119-479 Henry Alice 164-647 Henry - Hon. Robert L. 190-428 Healy - Dennis - 210- Hamilton M. Grout- 224- Harden - R.H. - 425 Herringshaw T- 445 Harris Jas A. 471- Hawley E. P. 492- 661- Hauck Will F. 493- Hayes D. G. 504-804-951 Harris Geo W. 546- Hawkins E. D. 558- Herges F.W. 577- Hayes Max 659- Harris Jas. R. 693 Hart J.W. 699- Haller F. 736- Heller H. 934How Eads Jas. 3- Hirschlerg John 64- Howe Arthur S. 110- Hodge Geo. 124- Horau - F.J. 235- Hohenthal - ELG 263-439 Hodge - Jno 401 Horning Geo. C. -408 Herman Henry S. 495- Houston C. C. 500- Hook A L 513- Howley Geo B. 534- Humfhiey Geo. 564- Hopp F.B. 624- Hurley J.J. 673 Howell W.L. 675- Hurber Wm D. 733-845-952 Hull Howard C. 792- Howe E. E 869 Huber W.. D 101Y Jenkins John J. 30 - 192- Jacobsen Gabriel 116- Jablinowski L. 120- Jahus Louis O. 155- Joseyn J C. 95- Jones S. P. 219- Johnson F. Warren - 247- Jacovitz M. 318- James CLifford 450 472- Jury Alfred F. 572- Javorel W. U. Rev. 718- Jones Richard L. 766- Johns I. L. 834- Jamison Augustus 863- Mr. J. A. M. & Mr. M. L. 917- Joyce Col. John A. 973- Jones Kissiar 1020 Imler J.M. 521- Ireland A.E. 618- Iglesias Santiago 890-Kennedy David 57 Kirchner John S. 60 Kline J.W. 122 Kammin Jos. E. 138 Kurgan John J 165 Kephart, J.C. 199 Kelly-Thomas J. 206 Klinglesmith John F. 231 Krantz Neil 276 Konenka?? S.J. 320 King Z.O. 348 Ketkar S.V. 358 Keefe Dan J. 530-604-756 Kavenez Ausin P. 672 Kreyling David 722 Kiseman C.B. 724 Kaefer J.W. 807 Kreyling David 855 Knight Fred W 1007Lennon John B 12- 227-283 461-762-967-977 Larisey Jas, A. 92- Largu B. A 988 Levi W. 129- Leeveany Harry 169- Lane John A. 203- Latimer J.H. 234- Larger B. A. 237-340 789-877 Ladsen - C. I. 254- Levy David -266- Lyons John 267- Lowery - C.L 273- Levin - Israel - 328 L Levine - Max 370 Lewis - Fhos. L 389-905 Legiun - C 399 Launer - Wm 435 Love Jno M 469- Lang W.m D. 571- Lloyed H. W. 586-773 Lawlor Martin 623- Levy J. Leonard 649- Langdon Emma F. 660- Leonard Lie 669 Lumburn W.W. 670 Larvjer Chas E. 873 Lynch James W 906-032 Leisler W.m D 931 Lang De W 965Menge Edw. 13- Meiler John G 130-341 Mamee Jas. J. 134- Menard E.M 174- Malcomson - A. W. 231- Menlon - J.P. 244- Maufin - Will A. 246- Macstay - A. B. 272- Menkel - Wm 312 Mackey - E.W. 323 MacFarland - Chas. S. -326 Marine Eng'rs Benef. Assoc. -336 Maxwell C. M. 491- Madsen J.A. 587. Matthysse S.R. 688- Maiden Sydrrer 705- Massey Will 714- Madden Jos 743- Maurring John J. 876- Maur - Mikol Maurice 986 Martin Andrew P. 1014-1015 Martin Albert E. 1024 Moore Chas. G. 16- Myers Frederick W. 18-43 - Moffett E. C. 59- Miller Jesse 137- Morton Lew 169- Morrison- W. P. 187 - Morrison's book. # 225- Middlebrook - R. P. 217-871 - Mitchell, Jno. - 298- 332- 395- 396-613- 726- 763- 921- 948 Morrison - Jno. 310 Michelsen C. F. 457- Miller Owen 470 - Mille Gus F. 506 - Moore L. V. 511- Myers Fred J. 541- Murphy Jos. F. 954- Morris Max 633- 950- 995 Montague John O. 742- Moffitt John A. 758-916 Mikol Maurice 897- Morrison Frank. 955-956 Murray. James G. 959-960McNulty F.J 52- McConnell J.W 136 McMullen Patrick 147-463 McCullough R.M 213-377 McCaughy J.D 253 McConnell C.B 319 McConaughy C.H. - 330 McNamee - Jno. F - 380 655-673-833-935-974 McCarthy - Frank - 414 889-970 McCarthy - P.F. 452 611-728 McCarthy Ellie 503- McCabe Owen 514- McLian Wm 540- McCartney Harry S. 642- McNamara J.J. 882- McCullam Wm. F 1001O'Connor Y.V. 19-41-657- Oderkirk Chas L 101- O'Rourke -Jas. A. 269- Neill Chas E 62- O'Neill, Jno. J. 286 Nys A.J. 345-413- O'Connell Jas 299-342 596-801891 Norton, Joe 421 Othinger D.W. 852- Newell Luther J. 473- O'Buin W.J. 918 Nilley Wm 664- Ostrander Archie J. 923 Newell O.W 676- Nolle C.J 712- Neale Philip 831- Nelem Chas. L. 846- Newcomf Walter L. 939Pierce Frederick E. 22-558-630-654-767-791- Parker Milton B. 26-180-894- Perkins Y.W. 34- 243-532-563-586-593-614-707-708-772-937-942-1024 Penn Y.J.55- Powell Jno. B. 752- Pierce Edwin C. 71- Prince Samuel 979 Parry J. F. 74- Pinkley Franklin 991 Perry Ora 84- Pyne Robt. 1010 Post Louis Y. 123- Pape Eanest S. 1021 Phillin Ewing R. 149- Perkins S. W. 1028- Peterson Wm M. 154- Preston George 225-433-779-941 Porter James E -238-785- Page L.A. 291 Pew Martin 349 Pfieffer Leo. J. 350 Pamell Albert 417 Phippen Justice 444 Parterfield E.L. 477- Palmer Theo. Td. 478-636-644-753-945 Packer Lgunalt 488- 658- Punsen Defence Consience 619-628- Quinn Patrick 205- Pasems T.C. 622- Preyzer Theodore 646- Phelps Leo W. 667- Perkins Edgar A 711- Pine Max 740- Pruens James 996Ryan W. D 15- Robinson Herman 34- 360 39- 73- 142- 166- 236- 316- 366- 369- 912- 927- 1011 Roosevelt Theodore 35-1036 Robrich [?] W. 53- Rock [?] 69- Ranck Sam 70 -648- Richter Melvia 168- Rakton J 181 Reid-G.J 186- Robins-Mrs. Raymond 221- Robins-Raymond 240- Roach-James E 242- Roorbach-W C 270- Rindge-F. H. 308 Reid-Stuart 324 496- 551- 720- 880- Ralston & Siddons- 393- 446 729- 966- 751 -982 Raphael- Michael- 411 Roeschin-Laura M- 423 Russell Wesley 460- Richt Carl 486- Rist Frank L 512- Reid Jean T. 525- Rice-Way T. C. 543- Ripley R. A. 549- Rothery John 578. Ratz Henry G 580-1035 Riedal Francis M. 641- Russell Chas. Edward 925-1031 Reiling J. Ford. 725- Risenlaina J 744- Review of [Kincas?] 746- Reynolds John Bronson 811- Rumsay Thomas 989 Rooker Wm Vilpan 992 Schmid W. F. 46-799 Shamp C.L 88- X Savay N Layfayette 878 Sharke W S. 91- Schafer Wm. A 978 Schaffer Chas 107 Shemp J.C. 998 Schoenberg David 143- Secl. Syncidal [?] Der [?] 1008-1009 Sanders A. E. 145- Shea Richard J. 189- Sesma F. 201 - Sheehan. G. J. 202- Savoy. M. Lafayette. 278-X Schlager. Florian. - 282 - Schroeder. Theo. - 343 Shanessy. J. C. 345 699. Shackleton. D. J. - 402 Schuler, -, 429 Sheret. Jino 453 612- Schmid Otto G. 465- Schuff Raul B. 482- Sedgley Wm. E. 566- Schenck F. E. 574- Schmidt Geo. 635- Sheret John 727- Shepard Paul S 827- Shipp Thos. P. 840- Sexton Timothy P. 856- Scharf Chas. 861- Shilley Geritt. 930 Schwab Wm. 961Skemp J. C. 11- 427 464- Smith Wm. J. 28- 229-296 487 Smoot. G. B. 40- Smith Chas. Sprague 76- Sovereign J. R. 78-80- Smith O. P. 89- Sullivan F. J. 95- Skinner H. 125-404 Smith A. W. 146-438 Street J. P. 187- Smith F. A. 198- Steghegan - Miss Emma 208- Snyder - E. J. 212-803- Stern - Edward - 216 - Springer - Carl 220- Smith John A. 223 - Spencer- Wm J. 257- 809- 842-987-1012 Smith - John T. 279 Sheraton - C. H. 290 Smith - H.O. 313-1013 Smith - Hon. W. R. - 356-774 Stemburgh - H. A. - 390-908 Steadman - W. C. 406 787- Sutherland - Geo. - 437 Smale[?] H. 515- Simison Paul J. 536 - Siddons F. L. 553 - Smith J. E 687 Stollnitz H. L. 741- Swan Jas. Sidney 768- Stimson H. A. 788 - Sullivan Jere. L. 881- Strobel R. 910 Sterne L. A. 913 Sutherland B. F 926 Smith Mabel 943-944 Smith M. M. 958 Strief J. H. 962 Slattery Wm 963 Subscriptions for Legal Defence 900 Schafer Wm A. 978 Stickler C. R. 990 Starkey E. W. 1002 S[?]Tirrell Chas. I. 32- Tillett Ben 128-403 Troth Oliver 132- Trott H. F. 289 To Whom it May Concern - 297-382 Talcherker H. A. - 357 Touey - J. M. - 362 Tracy M. F. 494- Tobin John F 560- Thompson Chas C. 590 Thomas H. D. 605- 737- Talkington W. R. 697- Taylor C. T. 700- Tohn D. J. 810- Tate Edw A. 904- Ullner Henry 81- Urick A. 87- Udell Alva 182- Ulrick A.L 507 - Valentine - Jos. F. 293 526- 566- 805-953 Veditz -C.W.A. 344 Von Elm - A 398 Valesh Eva McDonald 490-White Norval 8- Wheler F. J. 47-48- Weber J.N. 185- 1556- Wadsworth John 172-405-996 Wells- W. D. 315- Werkman, J.C. 440 Wellington Geo. W. -447-448 Whyte Jos. G. 590 - Woodman C. W. 621- Walker Henry M 665 - West Chas E. 666- Wennerstrum C. F. 715- Weber Frank J. 723 Weber Gibson 745- White W. H. 747- Waldrop Samuel 793- Walters B. F. 867- Weedman Geo. 964 Welch Wm 1018Witham J. W. 45- Wright Edwin R. 94- Wilson Geo. W. 115- Wright - J. 194- Wilson - James B 214 - Wilson - John A. 232 - Wilson - G. E. 264 - Williams - John 280- Wilson - Jno. c. 285 Wilson. A. G. 468 - Will Marcel 640 - Williams E. R. 671- Winkler- G. W. - 782 Williams Wm D. 795- Wilson Jas. 892- Wylie J. R. 902- Woodruf C. R. 929 Wilson Wallace 80113 Yarros Victor 1 Young C. O. 61 Yeisley Wm. 322 Zuck Chas. 579 Zeitz Frank 8401 M January 8, 1909. Mr. Victor Yarros, c/o Chicago Herald, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Enclosed find check for $50.00 in payment of contribution for the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST: also blank receipt which kindly sign and return. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.2 X. Jan. 8, 1909. Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, York, Pa. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 6th inst., in which you make suggestions as to giving Stereopticon views of the union labels, etc., which will be brought to Mr. Gompers' personal attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.3 X. Jan. 8, 1909. Mr. Jas, Eads How, Chairman, The National Committee for the Unemployed, 1417 Locust St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 5th inst., which will be brought to his personal attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.4 X. Jan. 8, 1909 Mr. M. S. Catlin, President, Local 1167, United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners, Enfield, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th inst. is received and contents noted. You say that a good opportunity is presented for the formation of an organization of labor in Enfield, and you request information as to the address of the representative of the American Federation of Labor in that section. Now let me say first, that we have no special organizer located anywhere near Enfield, though we have a number of volunteer organizers in the state as you will not from the enclosed list of organizations. If any of these are located near Enfield it might be well if you would communicate with them, but in the meantime I would suggest that you write me again giving full information as to the work performed by the men to whom you refer. Of course, you understand that if they are working at a trade coming under the jurisdiction of a national or international union, the matter should be taken up with the execut ive officers of that organization. In the meantime I am sending you a package of literature published by this office which you may find helpful and of interest.5 Mr. M. S. Catlin --2-- Let me say further that if you will bring to the attention of your local union at its next meeting the matter of a volunteer organizer for Enfield, I shall be glad to issue a commission to a good,active trade unionist, upon the recommendation of Carpenters' Local #1167. Hoping to hear from you further and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.6 M January 6, 1909. Mr. . E. Duffrey, 4619 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to advise you that owing to the state of the Federation funds, it is impossible just now to make the appointment of additional organizers. However, a note will be made of your request, and if fould possible at any time in the near future to comply therewith, we will be glad to do so. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.7 M January 8, 1909. Mr. Jacob W. Bayer Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, 1415 Main St., Edwardsville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison relative to the appointment of Nick Teasdale as District Organizer has been brought to my attention. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Teasdale in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.8 M January 8, 1909. Mr. Norval White, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, Steubenville, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant is at hand, in which you give a list of local unions not affiliated with the Central Body, and beg to say that by this mail I am taking the matter up with the international officers of the respective organizations mentioned, requesting them to urge upon their local unions the necessity and advisability of the being represented in the central body, and trust some good may be accomplished. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.9 M January 8, 1909. Mr. J. W. Bramwood, Secretary, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Steubenville, Ohio, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city #238, is not represented in the Trade and Labor Council. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.10 M January 8, 1909. Mr. Peter W. Collins, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Pierick Bldg., Springfield Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Steubenville, Ohio, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city is not represented in the Trades and Labor Assembly. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor11 January 8, 1909. M Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Drawer 199, Lafayette, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Steubenville, Ohio., in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city #438, is not represented in the Trades and Labor Assembly. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.12 M January 8, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Secretary, Journeymen Tailor' Union of America, Box 597, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Steubenville, Ohio, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city # 181, is not represented in the Trades and Labor Assembly. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.13 M January 8, 1909. Mr. Edward Menge, Secretary, National Brotherhood of Operative Potters, Box 181, East Liverpool, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Steubenville, Ohio, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city #20, is not represented in the Trades and Labor Assembly. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantages which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.14 M January 8, 1909. Mr. E. J. Denney, Secretary, Iron Molders' Union of North America, 530 Walnut St., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Steubenville, Ohio, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city #379 is not represented in the Trades and Labor Assembly. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which resolves from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.15 M January 8, 1909. Mr. W. D. Ryan, Secretary, United Mine Workers of America, State Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find two report blanks which were received here unsigned, and which I am returning for your signature. Kindly attend to this at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.16 Z Jan. 8, 1909 Mr. Charles G. Moore, c/o Edward Thompson Co., Northport, L. I., New York. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, who is away on of- ficial business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 6th Inst., which I am sure he will appreciate when it is brought to his attention upon his return. As per your request, I enclose herewith copy of Judge Wright's decision. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers. 17 Z Jan. 8, 1909. Mr. R. R. Doty, New Columbus, Pa. Dear Sir: In the absence o f President Gompers, who is away on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your poem entitled "Forging the Fetters." It will be held for President Gompers' attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.18 Z Jan. 8, 1909. Mr. Frederick W. Myers, Stenographer, The National Civic Federation, 281 Fourth Ave., New York, N: Y. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, who is away on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 7th Inst. with which you enclose stenographic report of his address at the recent meeting of the National Civic Federation. As soon as he can find an opportunity to revise it, upon his return to the office, he will do so and return to you, as per your request. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.19 Z Jan. 8, 1909. Mr. T. V. O'Connor, President, International Association of Longshoremen, 601-4 Elks Temple, Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir: In the absence of Mr. Gompers, who is away on official business, permit me to, in line with his letter to you of the 4th Inst. concerning the organizing of the longshoremen of Baltimore, enclose herein a copy of a letter received from American Federation of Labor Organizer Eichelberger, which letter is self-explanatory. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.20 COPY. York, Pn., January 7, 1909. Mr Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C., Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of your favour of the 4th Inst., forwarded from Baltimore, Md., and in reply desire to say that my recollection of what has been done for the "Longshoremen" of Baltimore, is that we have organized them four times in the past ten years; the last time was two years sincewhich I organized some two hundred of them into a temporary organization by going among them on the docks, and at meetings held here and there. We felt that the number was sufficient to call an open meeting, two days prior to the meeting, two days prior to the meet- ing the firm of Patterson Ramsey and Company, who are the head employers in that city of this class of help, discharged sixty of their men, informing them why they were discharged and that as soon as they (the men) would destroy their cards (up to this time they had no cards to destroy) and relinquish their membership in the union they would re-employ them, all of this the men agreed to give up the union except two and they were out last fall when I was over on the "Point" looking over the situation. About nine years ago we organized these men with ten hundred and thirty-nine charter members; they had a powerful or-ganization which about six months later went upon the rocks due to an unfortunate strike. My experience with the Longshoremen of Baltimore has been through ten years in which time I assisted in organizing the big local and have organized them three times since. There are two charters in Baltimore at this time that21 ---2--- were issued by the International Longshoremen's Association, etc., some four years ago. In all probablity another organization may be obtained when the spring opens, but not now when there are thousands of men out of employment including a great many along shore; it would simply mean a sacrifice of the men that dared to form a union; My God, man, this is a fact in this free country of ours, and I have seen those men suffer through the "Blacklist", and for no other reason than they organized. With kindest regards, I am Fraternally yours, (Signed) R. L. Eichelberger, General Organizer. 22 X. Jan 8, 1909. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, Manager, Lincoln Farm Association, 74 Broadway, New York City My dear Mr. Pierce: Yours of the 4th and 7th, the letters through your clerk are received, and by express the half-tone of Lincoln. You will please accept Mr. Gompers' thanks for your courtesy. sure he was under the impression that you already had the half-tone or otherwise he would have requested you to send the picture and let him have it made. We will return it to you after the publication of the February issue. Mr. Gompers is absent or otherwise he would have written to you personally. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.23 M January 9, 1908. Mr. F. T. Hawley, President, Switchmen's Union of North America, 326 Brisbane Bldg., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir: I am directed by President Gompers to acknowledge receipt of your letter which makes compliant against the Central Body of Ft. Worth, and requesting that the complaint be sumbitted to the Executive Council. The E. C. will meet in this city next week, and your letter will be scheduled with other matters for consideration. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.24 X. Jan. 9, 1909. Mr. Louis D. Brandeis, 161 Devonshire St., Boston, Mass Re - H. Traiser & Co. - Cigar and Tobacco Factories Strippers' Union. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 6th inst., which will be called to his personal attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.25 X. Jan. 9, 1909. Miss Anne Bowen, Secretary, Cigar Factory Tobacco Strippers' Union #6156, 987 Washington St., Boston, Mass. Re - H. Traiser & Co. - Cigar Factory Tobacco Strippers' Union #8156. Dear Madam: In the absence of Presidnet Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of letter of 5th Inst., signed by members of the Strike Committee of your lodge, which will be called to his personal attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.26 X. Jan. 9, 1909. Hon. Alton B. Parker, #3 South William St., New York City. Dear Sir: I read with a great deal of interest the interview pub- lished in the newspapers in which you briefly expressed your views upon the decision rendered by Justice Wright of the District of Columbia Supreme Court in the contempt proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison, and me. You will no doubt have noticed that thus far I have said nothing for publication since my remarks to the court why sentence should not be pronounced. It will not be difficult for you to appreciate the fact that there are lots of things in my mind that I really would like to say but I shall re- frain from so saying in this letter. The purpose of my writing is to ask whether it would be possible for you to come over to Washington some day during the week beginning January 11th. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor is to hold a week's session beginning Monday, and I should very much like to have you meet with our Executive Council and give us the benefit of your advice upon not only the injunction proper and the contempt proceedings, but also in regard to legislation, upon that subject as well as upon the necessary legislation to relieve the organzations of labor from the present27 Hon. Alton B. Parker, --2-- onerous condition, made so by the Supreme Court decision in the case of Loewe vs. The Hatters. On Thursday morning we will have an engagement, but almost any other time that/you would set we could make convenient. If, however, it would suit your convenience to come here Wednesday, it would suit the time of the Executive Council best. In any event, kindly wire your answer as soon as you can. Wishing you the compliments of the season, I have the honor to remain, Yours very truly, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.28 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Wm. J. Smith, President, S. C. State Federation of Labor, 1820 Barnwell St., Columbia, S. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Shortly after my interview with you in my office last week, I left this city on official business, only returning to Headquarters this morning when I immediately went into session with the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which will probably be in session the entire week. However, in conformity with my promise to let you hear from me in regard to the subject matter of your interview with me, and in reply to your letter of January 6th, I am taking this opportunity of writing you, even though briefly, for as you can very readily appreciate the work of the Executive Council is of such a character and so engrossing as to leave me little or no opportunity to give attention to my correspondence. I have talked the matter over with Secretary Morrison as to the state of the Federation funds, and for the life of me I do not see how we could arrange it now so as to comply with your request for the appointment of a special representative in South Carolina, especially to assist in the legislative work. The funds of the Federation, so Secretary Morrison informs me, are at a low ebb by reason of which it has been necessary for us to discontinue some29 Mr. Wm. J. Smith ---2--- of the men who have been at work. We have received request after request from the national and international unions and the state federation of labor for the appointment of special organizers and for assistance in legislative work, to all of which for the reasons just stated I have been compelled to reply as above. If circumstances so shape themselves later on as to permit compliance with your re- quest, you can rest assured that we will gladly do so. Regretting exceedingly that the cirumstances are such as to compel me to write as above, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. N.B. Even after what you heard Secretary Morrison say, I went over the matter with him, to see whether your request coud not be complied with, but it is utterly impossible at this time. Write again SG30 American Federation of Labor Executive Council. President, Samuel Gompers Secretary, Frank Morrison Treasurer, John B. Lennon, Bloomington, Ill. American Federation of Labor Orgd Nov. 14th 1881. Labor Omnia Vincit LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS 'AFEL' First Vice-President, James Duncan, Hancock Bldg., Quincy, Mass. Second Vice-President, John Mitchell, 281 Fourth Avenue, New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, James O'Connell, 402-402 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, Max Morris, 615 Appel Bldg., Denver, Colo. Fifth Vice-President, D. A. Hayes, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Sixth Vice-President, Wm. D. Huber, State Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Seventh Vice-President, Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Eighth Vice-President, John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. 423-425 G ST. N. W. Washington, D. C. M January 9, 1909. Hon. John J. Jenkins, Chairman, Judiciary Committee, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Agreeable to arrangements made between Judge Tirrell and Mr. Holder, Legislative Committeeman of the American Federation of Labor, yesterday, January 8, I herewith make a formal request to you for a hearing before the full Judiciary Committee of the House of Representatives, for the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, between the dates of January 11th and 15th inclusive, except- ing the morning hours of January 14th. The purpose of making this request is to allow the Execu- tive Council of the American Federation of Labor to make a statement before the Judiciary Committee of the House in reference to the ne- cessity of amending the Sherman Anti-Trust law, and the necessity for a bill regulating the issuance of injunctions. This request is made, not for the purpose of opening up the hearings or prolonging the questions under consideration, but merely for the purpose of making a statement, which is not anticipated to take more than an hour, unless questions from members of the Com- mittee, which might possibly prolong the conference. I am sending a similar letter to this to the Honorable 31 J. J. J. 2. Judge Tirrell, so that it will be thoroughly understood that a meeting of the full Committee is what we desire. Hoping this request may be granted, I am, Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.32 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR Executive Council. President, SAMUEL GOMPERS, Secretary, FRANK MORRISON, Treasurer, JOHN B. LENNON, Bloomington, Ill. First Vice-President, JAMES DUNCAN, Hancock Bldg. Quincy, Mass. Second Vice-President, JOHN MITCHELL, 281 Fourth Avenue, New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, JAMES O'CONNELL, 402407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, MAX MORRIS 315 Appel Bldg., Denver, Colo Fifth Vice-Presient, D. A. HAYES, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Sixth Vice-President, WM. D. HUBER, State Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sevent Vice-President, JOS. F. VALENTINE, Commercial Tribune Bldg. Cincinnati, Ohio. Eigth Vice-President, JOHN R. ALPINE, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. 423-425 G. St. N. W. AMERICAN EDERATION OF LABOR ORGD NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS 'AFEL' M Washington, D.C., January 9, 1909. Hon. Charles Q. Tirrell, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Agreeable to arrangements made between yourself and Mr. Holder, Legislative Committeeman of the American Federation of Labor yesterday, January 8, I herewith make a formal request to you for a hearing before the full Judiciary Committee of the House of Representatives, for the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, between the dates of January 11th and 15th inclusive, excepting the morning house of January 15th. The purpose of making this request is to allow the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to make a statement before the Judiciary Committee of the House, in reference to the necessity of amending the Sherman Anti-Trust law, and the necessity for a bill regulating the issuance of injunctions. This request is made, not for the purpose of opening up the hearings or prolonging the questions under consideration, but merely for the purpose of making a statement, which is not anticipated to take more than an hour, unless questions from Members of the Committee, which might possibly prolong the conference. I a, sending a similar letter to this to the Honorable Judge Jenkins, Chairman of the Committee, so that it will be thoroughly33 C. Q. T. 2. understood that a meeting of the full Committee is what we desire. Hoping this request may be granted, I am, Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.34 Washington, D. C., Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 3d. Ave., New York City. See Pouren Defense Committe immediately. Have them mail me today all papers and information in the case. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. Washington, D. C., Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. See Mahlon Barnes today. Have him send me today all information possible in the Mexican c ases. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.35 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Sir: The American Federation of Labor at the last annual Convention thereof, directed the Executive Council to endeavor to secure an "interview with the President of the United States to the end that the traditional right of asylum for political refugees shall be preserved in this republic." This morning there began the first meeting of our Executive Council in Washington since the above direction was given. The Executive Council would be pleased to have the opportunity, on Thursday morning January 14th, 1909, of presenting two particular cases in point as contemplated by the above matter. Learning that the time indicated is agreeable to your convenience, the members of the Executive Council will have the honor of calling upon your for the purpose stated. By order of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Attest: Frank Morrison Secretary. Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President, A. F. of L. To Honorable Theodore Roosevelt, President of the United States, White House, Washington, D. C.36 M January 12, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Will you kindly send me copy of the New York Press, under date of December 23, marked PERSONAL, and oblige, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers Sec. to President Gompers.37 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. James H. Barry, Editor, The Star, 1122-23 Mission St., San Francisco, Cal. My dear Mr. Barry: Your favor dated New Year's Day is just received, and as Mr. Gompers was absent on official business, and his entire time will be taken up XXXX this week with a meeting of the Executive Council, I will not wait until he will have the opportunity of personally writing to you, but am immediately acknowledging receipt of your very delightful letter, addressed jointly to him, Mr. Mitchell, and Mr. Morrison. Since the sentence impose by Justice Wright, he has received letters and telegrams by the hundred, but I am sure he will appreciate none more than yours. Ishall certainly bring it to the personal attention of all three of the gentlemen some time this week while they are in session here. I did not know until I read your letter that you had been sentenced to jail and fined for alleged contempt of court. I am somewhat doubtful, though, that should it become necessary for Mr. Gompers, Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Morrison to serve the sentence imposed by Justice Wright, that it would have the same effect upon Congress as the sentence imposed upon you had in securing the enactment of the California law. So far as I can judge from the newspaper reports, mazagine articles, the widespread range of our 38 Mr. Jas. H. Barry --2-- correspondence, and from personal conversation, the sentence has aroused a widespread and intense wave of indignation. The past two years have been a tremendous fight anyway, but a tremendously fascinating one, and I recognise it as a great privilege to be in the midst of it as I have been and am. I knew quite well that I was a rebel in many senses of the term, coming as I do from my beloved Dixie Land, yet I do not think I had fully appreciated the depths of my rebellious nature until we became involved in the fight of the past two years. Anyway, I have found our further that I am a good fighter. Even if I were not, the fact of being associated with our dear cheif would, I think, force me up to the point of being one. Now, as to Mr Gompers' picture. He gave a sitting about a week ago to one of the local photographers, and I will try to send you one of those as soon as we get them. I shall always recall my visit to San Francisco with feelings of unalloyed pleasure, and I shall never forget Mr. Gompers' many kind friends with whom I became acquainted there, chief among whom is yourself. He speaks of you frequently and always in terms of the warmest friendship and appreciation. I read with the greatest interest the clippings you enclosed from the Star. I am very glad indeed that you sent them specially to us. There is such a great mass of printed matter of this character that this might not have been brought particularly to Mr. Gompers' attention, and I know that he will be specially gratified with your editorials as well as with the statement by Judge McGuire. Reciprocating your kind regards, and asking to be remembered to Mr. and Mrs. Gudstadt, I am. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers39 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 3d. Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 7th came duly to hand, also the copies of American Industries. I find our file is now complete, and thank you for sending us the missing numbers. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.40 M January 11, 1909. Miss A. B. Smoot, Committee Bookbinders Union, 225 B St., N. E., Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Smoot: Upon my return to the office Mrs. Valesh informed me of the desire of your Committee to make an engagement to call upon Mr. Gompers at sometime which would best suit his convenience. I beg to say that the Executive Council convenes today in this city, and will probably be in session during the entire week. It is hardly probable, therefore, that I could make an engagement for you within ten days. However, I will not lose sight of the matter, but will make it at the earliest opportunity, and will so advise you. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.41 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. T. V. O'Connor, President, Int'l. Asso. of Longshoremen 601-4 Elks' Temple Bldg., Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: On August 3d., 1908, Mr. Daniel J. Keege, then President of the Int'l. Asso. of Longshoremen, wrote to me as follows: "In the city of New Orleans there is a colored man by the name of James E. Porter holding a commission as volunteer organizer for the American Federation of Labor. Mr. Porter is a member of a local that was formerly attached to our Organization, but they have not paid any per capita tax for more than a year and have no standing. Therefore, I would ask that the commission now held by Mr. Porter be cancelled, or at least not renewed until the local of which he is a member has paid up its back indebtedness." Therefore, upon the expiration of the term of Mr. Porter;s commission as volunteer organizer it was not renewed. I am now in receipt of a letter from him desiring to know why commission has not been re-issued to him I wish you would please advise me whether your Int'l. Association withdraws its objections to Mr. Porter holding a commission as volunteer organizer of the American Gederation of Labor. Hoping to receive your early reply, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers Presidnet, American F ederation of Labor.42 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Gilbert Eagleson, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 1041 Poplar St., Wilmington, Del. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th inst. received and contents noted. You say that the Central Labor Union has changed the date of its mass meeting from Jan. 21st to Feb. 12th, and you again urge that I should be present and address the meeting. I regret exceedingly to be compelled to reply in the negative, but I already have so many engagements and the pressure of other matters is so great, especially in connection with our legislation pending in Congress, and the court proceedings in the injunction case, that I do not see how it would be possible for me to assume any additional obligations at this time. I do not know what Secretary Morrison's engagements are but would advise that your write him, and trust he can so arrange his affairs as to be able to accept your invitation. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.43 Z Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Frederick W. Myers, Stenographer, National Civic Federation, 281 Fourth Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: I am returning herewith your stenographic report of my speech before the National Civic Federation on Dec. 15th, having gone over the same and made the few corrections that were necessary. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.44 M January 11, 1909. Mr. J. A. Franklin, President, International Boilermakers and Iron Ship Builders, Suite 7-12 Law Bldg., Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant received and contents noted. I shall place before my colleagues of the Executive Council the request you make for a member of the E. C. to take part in the conference between the representatives of your Brotherhood and the representatives of the Bridge and Structural Iron Workers, to be held at the Kaisernof Hotel, Chicago, January 22, and will endeavor to advise you as soon as possible as the conclusion reached. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.45 M January 11, 1909. Mr. J. W. Witham, Panora, Guthrie Co., Iowa. Dear Sir: As the Executive Council is now in session in this city, and President Gompers' time is entirely taken up, he directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 4th instant, and to send you under seperate cover copy of his report to the last annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held in Denver, Colorado, in which he deals fully with the Buck's Stove and Range Company Injunction Case. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.46 M January 11, 1909. Mr. A. F. Schmid, Secretary, Local #44 United Upholsterers Union of New York, Grolls' Hall, 145-147 East 53rd St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th instant is at hand in which you submit an appeal on behalf of your union to the Executive Council, against the decision of the New York Federated Union. In reply I beg to say that Executive Council convenes in this city today, and the matter will be brought before the Council for its consideration. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.47 M January 11, 1909. Mr. F. J. Wheeler, Secretary, General Trades and Labor Assembly, 827 West Adams St., Taylorville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also telegraphed and written me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore, I am making this acknowledgement of your message, and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, At this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantee of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. Impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.48 M January 11, 1909. Mr. F. J. Wheeler, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Assembly, 827 West Adams St., Taylorville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant received and contents noted. You refer to a controversy which has arisen in Taylorville by reason of the Blacksmiths belonging to the "Federation of Labor," as there is not a sufficient number of these workers to form a local union of the trade, and you request advice from me as to whether under these circumstances they have the right to become members of a local union directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. You fail to state, however, to which directly affiliated local union the blacksmiths in question belong. The laws of the American Federation of Labor make provision for the formation of federal labor unions for those workers whose trades are not yet organised, or whose numbers are such as will not admit of the formation of locals of their trades. You also understand that when a sufficient number of workers of any trade to form a local of that trade, are represented in a Federal Labor Union, they are required to withdraw and become affiliated with their respective international organisations, or else directly affiliated to the A. F. of L. In this way the membership of federal labor unions is constantly undergoing changes, but at the same time it gives the only opportunity for such classes of workers to be known and recognizedF. J. W. 2. as union wage earners until such time as they can be identified with the unions of their trades. Let me hear from you further and more definitely in regard to this matter, when I will then be in a position to reply more fully. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.M January 11, 1909. Mr. William H. Bush, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 1367 Texas St., Springfield, Mo. Dear Sir and Brothers: Your favor of the 7th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that Secretary Morrison and I both have received a number of similar letters, and have decided to place the entire matter before the Executive Council of the A. F. of L., which meets in this city today and for the remainder of the week, for the consideration of that body. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.51 M January 11, 1909. Mr. J. P. Boyle, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 26 Covert St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that Secretary Morrison and I both have received a number of similiar letters, and have decided to place the entire matter before the Executive Council of the A. F. of L., which meets in this city today and for the remainder of this week, for the consideration of that body. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.52 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. F. J. McNulty, President, Int'l. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Pierik Bldg., Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 5th inst. signed by Mr. James P. Noonan, acting for you. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor meets this morning at Headquarters. Mr. Gompers is reporting this entire matter to the Executive Council, and has also sent copy of your letter to Organizer M. Grant Hamilton. He will write you further at as early a date as possible. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.53 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Benj. H. Robrish, Secretary, Boston Newsboys Protective Association, 13 Grove St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to acknowledge receipt of invitation to attend the annual ball of your local union which will be held at Copley Hall Tuesday evening, January 26th. I should indeed be pleased to accept the invitation but my engagements are of such a character as to render to impossible for me to do so. Permit me, however, to express my sincere hope for a pleasant and enjoyable evening. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.54 Lf January 9, 1909. Mr. Chas. Anderson, Rock Island Branch of the Socialist Party, Box 169, R. F. D. #1, Rock Island, Ill Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathisers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American perople are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establish-ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.55 LF January 11,1909 Mr. G. F. Penn, Superintendent, Wisconsin Free Employment Office, 903 Tower Ave., Superior, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few man, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the greta cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 56 LP January 11, 1909 Mr. Frank P. Hart, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 824 North 12th St., South Omaha, Neb. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of live have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line. to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.57 LP January 11, 1909. Mr. David Kennedy, Secretary, Greer County Farmers E. & C. Union of America, R. F. D. #1, Blake, Olka. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.58 LF January 11, 1909 Mr. W. A. Appleton, Secretary, General Federation of Trade Unions, 8 Adelphi Terrace, Adam St., Strand, London, England. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establish-ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to ourduties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.59 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. E. A. Moffett, 1045 Segal St., Camden, N. J. Dear Sir: In compliance with request made by Mr. Ralph M. Easley, I beg to advise you that the member of the Cigar Makers' Int'l. Union to which he refers in Philadelphia, is Mr. John S. Kirchner, of 330 Fitzgerald St., Phila., Pa. I am sure Mr. Kirchner will be glad to be of any assistance he can to you, and having that in mind I enclose to you herein a brief note of introduction to him. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labour.60 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. John S. Kirchner, 330 Fitzgerald St., Phila., Pa. My dear Mr. Kirchner: This will introduce to you Mr. E. A. Moffett, of Camden, N. J. Any information or assistance which you can give him will be greatly appreciated by, Yours fraternally, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Thank you and [?] are well61 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. C. O. Young, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Gen. De., Portland, Ore. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3d. Inst. has been duly received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that unless the Constitution of by-laws of the Oregon State Federation of Labor prescribes that the officers to be nominated and elected shall be delegates from their respective organizations, then any member in good standing in any local union affiliated to the State Federation of Labor is eligible for election to any office within the gift of the State Federation. In connection with this matter, I might call attention to the fact that in 1894, when Mr. McBride was elected President of the American Federation of Labor he was not a delegate to that convention. If there is good grounds for opposition to any of the present officers of the State Federation, Then certainly they should not be elected, but in their stead other officers should be chosen who are better qualified to perform the duties required of such officers. Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President,62 X. Jan, 11, 1909. Mr. Charles E. Niell, Commissioner, Bureau of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: I would appreciate it very much if you would kindly forward to Mr. E. S. Cardozo, Ashland, Va., the bulletin published by your Department giving the "increased cost in living" and the "increase in wages as compared thereto, Thanking you in advance for you courtesy, I am, Very truly yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President, American Federation of Labor. [*N. B. Please also send a few copies of any Bulletin in re. above S.G.*]63 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. E. S. Cardozo, Ashland, Virginia. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 4th inst. is received and contents noted. Your desire to know whether the cost of living is not hgiher now than it has been for the last decade and whether the rate of increase in wages of the laborers has been in proportion to the increased cost of living. I beg to say in reply that the increase in wages has not been in proportion to the increased cost of living. This not only applies to mechanics and laborers, but a lso to Government Clerks and other similarly situated who work for a stipulated wage. I have requested the Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor to forward you the bulletin issued by his Department which will give you statistics bearing upon this subject. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.64 x. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. John Hirschberg, Ex-Secretary, Central Trade and Labor Council, 209 N. 25th St., Richmond, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th inst. received and contents noted. Now, in regard to the matter of the appointment of a special organizer for the State of Virginia, I regret exceedingly to be compelled to inform you after further consultation with Secretary Morrison I learn that the Federation funds are in such condition at present as to make it impossible to appoint any additional organizers, certainly not for the next month. I fully appreciate the situation in your territory and it gives me genuine pain to have to write you as above, but if we have not the funds with which to pay the salary and meet the expenses if an organizer for the State of Virginia it would be worse than folly to make the appointment. It might not be amiss to say further that a number of national unions and state federations of labor have made similar requests, to all of which we have been compelled to reply as above. It may be later on we will be able to make the appointment, in which event you can rest assured it will be gladly done. In compliance with your request, I enclose to you herein copies of the two previous letters that we wrote you upon this matter.65 Mr. John Hirschberg, --2-- With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.66 COPY. z. Washington, D.C., July 20, 1909. Mr. John Hirschberg, Secretary, Central Trade and Labor Council, 2503 E. Marshall St., Richmond, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th inst. received and contents noted. Uou say that the convention of the Virginia State Federation of Labor a committee of three was appointed to confer with me in regard to the appointment of a special organizer for the State of Virginia, that this committee desires to call upon me at Headquarters sometime during the week of August 24th, and you request that I should designate an hour and day of that week which would be convenient for me. In view of the political campaign as well as engagements already made, I cannot now say definitely whether I will be at headquarters during the week of August 24th, Should I be here at that time and you committee still desires to some on to Washington I shall be glad to see them and talk over the matter of an organizer for the State of Virginia. However, it might be well for me to say that at present the funds of the Federation are such that there is very little probability of our being able to make any appointments at this time. At the Chicago meeting of the E.C. there were a half-dozen or more requests made from as many different sections of the country for the appointment of special organizers, but owing to financial reasons we have thus far been unable to comply with any of these requests. If your committee is still of the opinion that it will be necessary to have an interview with me I would suggest that you write me again nearer the date above indicated, when I may be able67 --2-- to give you a more definite answer. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor.68 COPY. L. Washington, D. C., Aug. 15, 1908. Mr. John Hirschberg, 209 N. 25th St., Richmond, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th inst. received and contents noted. Now in regard to your committee coming on to Washington to see me, let me say that I only returned to the city a few days ago after a week's absence on official business, and it will be necessary for me to again leave on Monday to keep important engagements in Boston. I will return here for a day or two, then will go to Texas, and from Texas to Illinois, all of which will necessitate my absence for the next few weeks. I do not see how I can arrange at any time in the near future to see your committee. In the meantime let me suggest that you write me just what you have in mid about which you desire to confer with me and the matter will be given as prompt attention as possible. Fraternally yours, (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor. 69 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Thos. Rock, 525 Lexington Ave. New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to advise you that the subject matter of your appeal is one of the matters listed for the action of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting this week. You and the other interested parties will be advised just as promtly as possible as to the conclusion reached by the Executive Council in this matter. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.70 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Samuel H. Ranck, Librarian, Grand Rapids Library, Ryerson Public Library Bldg., Grand Rapids, Mich. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 6th inst. received and contents noted. You refer to your recent purchases of the complete set of proceedings of the annual conventions of the American Federation of Labor, and you desire to know what would be the price for the bound proceedings each year as the convention may be held. In reply I beg to say that the proceedings are bound separately each year in paper covers at 25 cts. per copy. Every two years they are bound together in cloth similar to the volumes you now have and we can let you have them at $2.00 a volume. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompse President, American Federation of Labor.71 X. Jan. 11, 1909, Mr. Edwin C. Pierce, Attorney, 49 Westminster St., Rms. 808-10-12, Providence, R. I. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 5th inst. and to thank you for the clippings enclosed. President Gompers' entire time is being taken up by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which is in session here, and your letter will be brought to his personal attention at the earliest opportunity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.72 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. A. B. Garretson, President, Order of Railroad Conductors, Cedar Rapids, Ia. Dear Sir: Permit me to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the 8th inst., and to thank you for the editorial you enclose. President Gompers is unable to give any attention to his correspondence at present, by reason of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor being in session here, hence this acknowledgement. Very truly yours, [*P. Le Guard*] Secretary to President Gompers.73 x. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 3d. Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th inst. has been duly received and contents noted. Now as to the protest meeting which you say has been arranged to be held at the Grand Central Palace on Feb.17th, I think your suggestion as to the class of men who are to be invited to address the meeting is excellent. As to extending an invitation to Judge Alton B. Parker, I think that he might be invited with all propriety, and would suggest that you do so. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [Sam. Gompers signature] President, American Federation of Labor. [If Judge Parker is invited a committee should call on him. You can reach him over the phone and ascertain when he can receive the committee, SG.]M January 11,1909. Mr. J. S. Parry, c/o Eagles Hall, Oklahoma City, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th instant is at hand and contents noted. Now in reply I beg to say that for reasons which are obvious it has always been my policy to refrain from making any recommendation of any one for a position, either in the Government or otherwise. Besides this, the Executive Council many years ago decided that no one should be recommended for any appointment in the service of the United States or of any of the states. You can very readily understand how difficult and almost impossible it would be for me were I to request the appointment of one person to any position, and then when another application made was made which I would not feel warranted endorsing, for me to decline to consider such request favorably. In addition to the above, you can readily understand the cause which prompts such a decision by following this policy. If we make a recommendation we are responsible for the appointee and his conduct, and it takes away from us the right of criticism of either him or any other one who may have appointed him, either in this or in any other case. Then again, when the influence of the officers of the A. F. of L. is utilized to secure the appointment of a man to an official 75 J. S. P. 2. position under the Government, it weakens our effort to secure not only favorable legislation in the interests of labor, but favorable action on the part of government officials in the administration relative to our follow workers who are employed by the Government. I have no hesitancy in saying, however, that if the people desire Mr. Hendren's appointment, I sincerely trust that it will be made. With Kind regards, and hope to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, [Signature, Sam. Gompers] President American Federation of Labor. 76 X. Jan 11, 1909. Mr. Charles Sprague Smith, Managing Director, Ethical Social League, 318 E. 15th St., New York City. My dear Mr. Smith: Your favor of the 8th inst. received and contents noted. I thank you for your very kind invitation to take dinner with you on Thursday, Jan. 28th, in connection with my trip to New York to deliver an address before the Ethical Social League, but I regret that my engagements are of such a character as to make it impossible for me to accept. I anticipate the pleasure of seeing you at the meeting. Very sincerely yours, [signature of Sam Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.77 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. Ora L. Hebble, Secretary, Miner's Entertainment Committee, Indianapolis Central labor Union, 108 N. Pa. Ave., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir & Brother: Your favor of the 7th inst. received and contents noted. I want to thank you for your very cordial invitation to attend the Miner's Entertainment Committee of the Indianapolis Central labor Union at their annual convention on Jan. 19th at Thomalson Hall, Indianapolis. I should e glad to accept your invitation, but I regret to say that my engagements are of such a character as to make it impossible for me to do so. With all my heart I hope you will have a good time and success. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.78 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. J. R. Sovereign, Secretary, Federal Union #12222, 116 E. 2d. Ave., Spokane, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th inst. is received and contents noted. I want to thank you for the expressions in regard to the recent decision of Justice Wright of the Supreme Court of the District of[g] Columbia. I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison, ane me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of spedch and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, are of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. I note what you say in regard to your intense desire to be acti[v]ely at[a] work in the labor movement, and I shall certainly keep the matter in mind though at present I am unable to give you any great encouragement that the way will be open at any time in the79 Mr. J. R. Sovereign --2-- near future to avail ourselves of your offer. In any event, I thank you for your letter and the sentiment you express. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.80 X. Jan.11, 1909. When Replying Refer to Resolution #78. Mr. J. R. Sovereign, Secretary, Federal Union #12,222, 116 E. 2d. Ave., Spokane, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th inst. in regard to Resolution #78 of the Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor has been duly received and contents noted. You state that Federal Labor Union #12,222 prohibits its members from infringing upon the jurisdiction of the American Brotherhood of Cement Workers, or any other organization. I am writing to the secretary of the Brotherhood of Cement Workers sending him copy of your letter to me, and will write you further upon receipt of reply from him. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 81 X. Jan. 11, 1909. When Replying Refer to Resolution #78. Mr. Henry Ullner, Secretary, Brotherhood of Cement Workers, Rm. 214, Mechanics Bank Bldg, Mason & Market Sts., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of Dec. 4th in regard to the subject matter of Resolution #78 of the Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter just received from the Secretary of Federal Labor Union #12,222, of Spokane, Washington, which is self-explanatory. You will note the statement made by the secretary that that Federal Labor Union has never permitted its members to infringe upon the jurisdiction of your Brotherhood or upon the jurisdiction of any other organization. I wish you would please let me hear from you in regard to this at your early convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 82 COPY. FEDERAL LABOR UNION #12,222. Spokane, Wash., Jan. 4, 1909. Hon. Samuel Gompers,, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Answering your favor of Dec. 24th, I beg to say I was instructed at our last regular meeting to inform you that Federal Labor Union #12222 has never allowed its members to infringe on the jurisdiction of any other union. The similarity of work and the business relations, as well as the fraternal feelings existing between the Cement Workers and the Rod Carriers locals and F.L.U. #12222 are such that we have frequently exchanged service. That is to say, that when either of the two unions mentioned had more jobs than it had members it would draw on #12222 for help, and always received it whenever we had men out of work, and likewise, whenever we had more jobs than members we drew on them for help and in like manner received it. And in all places the scale of wages adopted by the union assisted by us was paid to such of our members as they took to assist them. The same rule prevailed whenever they assisted us. This practice of exchanging help has been more general between the Hod Carriers and #12222 than with the Cement Workers, for the reason that #12222 meets in the Hod Carriers hall and the business agents and the members of both unions mingle together and both use the same telephone, while the Cement Workers meet in another hall and in a remote part of the city. Not until your communication of Dec. 24th was received, did F.L.U. #12222 have any knowledge that any such resolution as it contained had been proposed or adopted at the Denver convention. Furthermore, at the time of its adoption the relationship between Local #68 of the Cement Workers and F.L.U.#12222 was of the XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX most fraternal character, and is still the same so far as we know. At the very time of the adoption of Resolution #78, to which you call our attention, #12222 was furnishing men to assist the Cement Workers at their own request, and we were aiding them in their dispute with F.L.U. #11624. If the Cement Workers have any grievance against #12222 we know nothing of it except the information contained in your letter. Fraternally yours, (Signed) J.R. Sovereign, Recording Secretary, F.L.U. 12222. 116 E. 2d. Ave., Spokane, Wash. 83 X. Jan. 11, 1909. Mr. F. T. Hawley, President, Switchmen's Union, 326 Brisbane Bldg., Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th inst. received and contents noted. I should like to accept your invitation to attend your annual Convention which you say will be held in Peoria, Ill., beginning May 17th, but at this writing I am unable definitely to say whether I can do so. I would like you to write me again, say the first of April, when I may be able to give you a more definite answer. I would not like to make a positive promise now and then matters so shape themselves in connection with the court proceedings, etc., as to render it impossible for me to fulfill my promise. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.84 M January 12, 1909. Mr. Ora Perry, Organizer, Freeport, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your report for the month of January has been received, in which you enclose commission as volunteer organizer for Freeport and vicinity. I very much regret that you can not continue your work as organizer, but I can only accept your resignation, and take this opportunity to thank you for the good work performed by you while acting in that capacity. I trust that although no longer connected with the A.F. of L. as our official representative, you will yet lend your influence wherever possible to the strengthening and advancement of our great cause. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 85 M January 12, 1909. Mr. L.F. Goodley, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 927 Spruce St., Wilmington, Del. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison, relative to the appointment John W. Dorney, as volunteer organizer for Wilmington is at hand. In reply I beg to say that it affords me pleasure to comply with this request and recommendation, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Dorney in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the I.F. of L. for that section. I note that you say Organizer A.R. Saylor is not in any way connected with the Central Labor Union of your city, and his name will be dropped from our list. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President A.F. of L. 86 January 12, 1909. Mr. Ambrose Dietz, Organizer, R.F.D. #3, Bangor, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to advise that your commission is being renewed and forwarded to you under separate cover. I am also sending you some organizers letter heads, in compliance with your request. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. 87 M January 12, 1909. Mr. A. L. Urick, President, Iowa State Federation of Labor, Des Moines, Ia. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 2nd has been received, in which you enclose letter addressed to you by A.B. Clark, Secretary of the Trades and Labor Assembly, Burlington, Iowa, recommending the appointment of George Young as volunteer organizer, and beg to advise you that commission has been issued and forwarded to Brother Young in accordance therewith. I also note that you say one of the names on our list of organizers has been dead for a year. Kindly advise me to whom you have reference, as we have received no notification to mark him off. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 88 MJanuary 12, 1909. Mr. C.L. Shamp, Secretary, Int'l. Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, 2502 North 18th St., Omaha, Nebraska. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is entirely taken with the meeting of the Executive Council, now in session in this city, I beg to call your attention to a letter just received from Organizer Robert L. Finney, Cairo, Ill., in which among other things he says: "Brother C. L. Shamp of the Firemen's Union for sometime kept after me to organize the men in Cairo. I knew it would be a hard go and told him so. He wrote me and told me to try and he would send me a check to cover expenses. I made the attempt and spared no expense. In fact, I spent more than I should have done, but I wanted them organized and went after them. I sent in an itemized expense account, and he has not only refused to allow the sum, but has ignored my letters. Is there no way to collect the amount without going to Court? This is the third time I have been treated this way and believe it should be stopped. The total of the account amounted to $16.40." We have no information whatever in regard to this matter except the above, which Organizer Finney has been advised is transmitted to you. Very truly yours, N. Lee [?] Sec. to President Gompers.89 M January 12, 1909, Mr. O. P. Smith, Logansport, Ind. Dear Sir: I am directed by President Gompers to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 5th instant, in which you enclose clipping, and to thank you for same. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.90 M January 12, 1909 Mr. Robert L. Finney, Editor, Cairo Labor Journal, 707 Ohio St., Cairo, Ill. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is entirely taken up with the meeting of the Executive Council, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 5th instant, and to say that same has been transmitted to Secretary Shamp. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.91 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. H. S. Sharpe, Sec.-Treas., St. Louis Typographical Union #8, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is entirely taken up with the immediate work of the Executive Council, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th inst. and under separate cover the several copies of the St. Louis Republic for which you will please accept his thanks. I shall endeavor to bring [XXXX] to Mr. Gompers' personal attention at the earliest moment the several articles to which you refer. He will appreciate the offer of your services at this time, and will be glad to hear from you further whenever convenient. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.92 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Jas. A. Larisey, 2119 Bellefontaine St., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir: As President Gompers is unable to give any attention to his correspondence this week by reason of the meeting of the Executive Council now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your undated favor past marked Jan. 8th in which you write more in detail in regard to organizing the piano tuners, and request some advice and suggestions from Mr. Gompers. Now, inasmuch as you are located in Indianapolis, let me suggest that you call upon Mr. E. A. Perkins, President of the Indiana State Federation of Labor, Rm. 16, Union Block, Indianapolis. I am sure he will be glad to render any assistance within his power. In both Chicago and New York there are located duly appointed special representatives of the American Federation of Labor, Mr. John Fitzpatrick, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill., and Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 3d. Ave., New York City. Why not correspond with both of them in regard to this matter? They will undoubtedly be in a position to assist you. Mr. Gompers will be glad to hear from you further as to this matter. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.93 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mrs. H. Guyer, 107 E. Mountain Ave., Fort Collins, Colo. Dear Madam: As President Gompers is unable to give any attention to his correspondence this week by reason of his time being entirely engrossed by the immediate work of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 7th inst. in which you request advice as to whether any of the trade union publications would care to publish a novel which you have written. Enclosed you will please find a list of the labor press and trade union journals with any of whom you can correspond direct in regard to the matter. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.94 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Edwin R. Wright, President, Ill. State Federation of Labor, Box 477, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 9th inst. President Gomper's entire time this week will be taken up by the meeting of the Executive Council now in session in this city, and he is therefore unable to give any attention to his correspondence diring that time. I will, however, bring your letter to his attention at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, [*X. Lee Guard] Secretary to President Gompers.95 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. F. J. Sullivan, Box 42, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 9th inst. President Gompers' entire time this week will be taken up by the meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in session here, and he is therefore unable to give any attention to his correspondence for this week. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 96 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Jas. H. Hatch, General President, Upholsterers' Int'l. Union, 145-47 E. 53d. St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th inst. is received and contents noted. I have sent copy of your letter to Mr. C. P. Connolly of St. Louis, with the request that he write you direct in regard to the rug which was part of the exhibit of your organization at the Jamestown Exposition, and which you say was not returned after the close of the exhibit. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.97 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. C. P. Connolly, 1361 Goodfellow Ave., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find copy of a letter from President Hatch of the Upholsterers' Int'l. Union in which he refers to a rug, part of the exhibit of his Int'l. Union at the Jamestown Exposition, and which he says was not returned to him. Will you please give Mr. Hatch any information you can on the subject at your earliest convenience, and at the same time advise me in regard thereto. Thanking you in advance for your prompt attention, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.98 COPY. New York, Jan. 9, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I wish to inform you that part of the Exhibit of our International union, and displayed at the Jamestown Fair on the A. F. of L. section, has never been returned to us. I was under the impression that the man in charge of the section, a Mr. Connolly, would see that all of the goods would be returned to the unions when the fair closed. After a great deal of trouble and a long wait we received a part of the goods last year but a Carpet Rug, part of our display, seemed to have evaporated as all letters addressed to Mr. Connolly in reference to the missing rug have brought no reply. As the letters were not returned to us we assume they reached him O.K. The rug cost $30. and if Mr. Connolly will be kind enough to inform me who it was that was collecting rugs for souvenirs at the close of the Jamestown Fair I shall be pleased to hear from him. In the meantime I would ask the officers of the A. F. of L. to see if they can get a reply from Connolly. Hoping to hear from you at an early date on this matter, I am, With best wishes, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Jas. H. Hatch, General President, U. I.U.99 X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. John A. Hadaller, 105 S. 6th St., Columbia, Mo. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 7th inst. received. Inasmuch as President Gompers' time is entirely taken up with the work of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 7th inst. You say that you are a law student and particularly interested in the study of court decisions in labor cases, You do not indicate the nature of the decisions in which you are interested. I presume you refer to injunction cases. In any event, I am sending you under separate cover copy of public document entitled Injunction Data Filed by Samuel Gompers which gives some of the injunctions which have been issued against labor organizations from time to time. There have been many others but these are some of the most important ones. I am also sending you some of the printed matter published by this office, including copy of Mr. Gompers' report to the last annual convention of the American Federation of Labor held in Denver, in which I think you may be interested. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 100 X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. Wm. Dobson, Secretary, Bricklayers and Masons, Odd Fellows Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir: I am just in receipt of a letter from Organizer Chas. L. Odekirk of Granville in which he says: "As Organizer of this city I have been working to organize the bricklayers and plasterers. I got the necessary number and sent the money, $15.00 for charter. They wrote me saying that this was in Spring Valley's jurisdiction and that they would write the Secretary of that local and get permission. I waited about six weeks and wrote them again. They answered me saying that they had not heard from Spring Valley yet but would that day. I again wrote them. Now, we have waited a long time and have not heard from them. I have written them asking for the return of my $15.00 or the charter. They say I will have to wait until they get a reply from Spring Valley. Now this waiting on them reflects on my honesty to the men who have paid me the money for this charter, and I would be very grateful if you would take this matter up with them and see what you can do for me. We want our money right away or the charter. This is nothing but a fair proposition as the draft was sent Oct. 9th and was paid at Chicago Oct. 23d." I would appreciate it if you would kindly look after this matter at your earliest convenience, and let me have a word in regard thereto. Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 101. X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Chas. L. Odekirk, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Granville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th inst. is received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am writing to the Secretary of Bricklayers and Masons Int'l. Union in regard to the charter application you made some time ago for the bricklayers you organized in Granville and I trust he will be able to give the matter his prompt attention. In the conclusion of your letter you say, 'Now about the jurisdiction of Spring Valley. It is located six miles north of here with Illinois river between here and there which is out over the Highway. In the spring also we want to take in the towns of Mark, Ill., which is located just one mile west of Granville and the the town of Standard which is two miles east of here, so you see we are not butting in Spring Valley jurisdiction and S.V. has never taken care of this territory. Everything else is organized here about except the masons." Please advise me more fully as to the nature of the work performed by the men in question and whether there are any local unions of any trade or calling located at Standard and Mark. If there are no local unions of the trades in either one of these locations, and the men who desire to be organized are in favor of the proposition, I do not apprehend that there will be any objections otherwise imposed. In any event, let me hear from you further, Mr. Chas. L. Odekirk. --2-- 102 and believe me to be, With best wishes, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.103 LP January 11, 1909 Mr. John T. Dempsey, President, Central Labor Union, Room 407 Pauli Building, Scranton, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that it is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say, and therefore I am making this communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.104 LF January 11, 1909. R.E. Anderson, President Local Union #12, International Brotherhood of Paper Makers, Leominster, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow--workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that form the many communications of this character which have been set to me, I believe that I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance that the establish- ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause o the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Grompers President American Federation of Labor.105 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. M.G. Harper, Secretary, Division #14, Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Bristol, Tenn. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.106 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Robert M Hartman, President, General Labor Union, Labor Hall, N. W. Cor. Fourth & Market Sts., Camden, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantee of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realise the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely how to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President. American Federation of Labor.107 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Chas. Schaffer, Secretary, Kalamazoo Trades and Labor Council, P. O. Box 435, Kalamazoo, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathisers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantee of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realise the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely how to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.108 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Sam DeNedrey, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 423 G St. N. W., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that form the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 109 LF January 12,1909 Mr. Roderick J. Hall, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 327 N. 16th St., Kansas City, Kans. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this characters which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance that the establish- ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Grompers signature President American Federation of Labor 110 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Arthur S. Howe, Committeeman, Federated Trades Council 151 South First St., San Jose, California. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principle for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 111 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Daniel Harris, President, Workingman's Federation of the State of New York, 190 Bowery, New York,N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a litter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establish- ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.112 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. C.H. Bausher, Secretary, Bronx Labor Council, 1370 Franklin Ave., Bronx, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establish- ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.113 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Edward Dabkowski, Secretary, United Cement Masons Union #1, 1551 Second Ave., New York,N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible toconvey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establish- ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.114 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Percy L. Anderson, Secretary, Typographical Union #94, 707 Av. E., Bayonne, N.J. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. P.S. Thanks for offer of assistance. The matter will be formulated by the Executive Council and you will be advised. 115 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Geo.W. Wilson, President, Typographical Union #8, Suite 407, No. 810 Olive St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutionalguarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establish- ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 116 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Gabriel Jacobsen, Secretary, Cloak and Skirt Makers' Union, Local #56, 85 Green St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message' Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establish- ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 117 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. J. A. Cable, Secretary, Coopers' International Union of North America, Meriwether Bldg., Kansas City, Kans. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establish- ment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 118 Washington, D.C., Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. C. L. Baine, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Telegram received. Executive Council will hear committee Thursday afternoon or as soon as possible thereafter. In accordance President Tobin's consent am notifying Douglas Company if it cares it can send representative. Samuel Gompers. Charge A. F. of L. Washington, D.C., Jan. 12, 1909. W. L. Douglas Shoe Company, [Boston] Brocton, Mass. By direction Executive Council and complying with your request you are advised that Boot and Shoe Workers will have committee here Thursday afternoon and that a representative of your company will be heard if you so desire. Samuel Gompers. Charge A. F. of L.119 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Lee M. Hart, G.S.-T., Int'l. Asso. Theatrical Stage Employees, State Hotel, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 3d. ins. Owing to the meeting in this city of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, this week, President Gompers is unable to give any attention to his correspondence. Hence this acknowledgement. Your letter will be brought to his attention at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, [illegible signature] Secretary to President Gompers.120 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. L. Jablinowski, 15 Spruce St., New York City. Dear Sir: In response to your favor of the 8th inst., I am sending you under separate cover a copy of "History of Trade Unions". Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.121 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. A. Flagler, 118 Union St., Newark, N.Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 6th inst. received and contents noted. I beg to say that the President of the Textile Workers Union is Mr. John Golden, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. A letter to this ad- dress will reach him in due time. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 122 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. J. W. Kline, President, Int'l. Brotherhood of Blacksmiths and Helpers, 324 Dearborn St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instl to hand and contents noted. I note that your forms will be closed on the 25th of the month for your February issue, and while I cannot positively promise that editorial can be forwarded you by the 25th, it will reach you by the 27th of the month for a certainty. I note that you can extend the time of closing your forms for a few days. Reciprocating your kind wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor, Editor, American Federationist.123 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Louis T. Post, Editor, The Public, 357 Dearborn St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 7th inst., also copies of The Public under separate cover. Owing to a meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in Washington this week, President Gompers is unable to give any attention to his correspondence, hence this acknowledgement. Very truly yours, [illegible signature] Secretary to President Gompers.124 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Geo. Hodge, Publisher, Union Labor Advocate, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th inst. received and contents noted. Under separate cover I am sending the cut which you request of the delegates at Denver, and ask that it be returned when you are through with it. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Editor, AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.125 X. Jan, 12, 1909. Mr. H. Skinner, General Secretary, Typographical Association, Caxton Hall, Salford, Lancaster, England. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. with kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers*] President, American Federation of Labor.126 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Ernest Bohm, Cor. Sec., Central Federated Union, 184 Eldridge St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th inst. received and contents noted. I thank you for sending me official copy of the report of the recent meeting of the Central Federated Union in which the preambles and resolutions were adopted in regard to the recent decision given by Justice Wright. You say that you are directed to request moral assistance for the Rockmens Union and the Excavators Union, both of which are threatened by a dual union organized by the employers. You also suggest that a "strong letter to the Allied Internationals would probably awake them to the necessity of resisting the bosses pet." It should require no assurance upon my part that I shall be glad to do everything within my power along the line you suggest. However, as the Executive Council of the American Fed- eration of Labor is now in session in this city and will be for the remainder of the week, as you can very readily imagine, I will have very little time to devote to my correspondence. I would suggest, that you indicate to me the internationals to which this matter should be addressed.127 Mr. Ernest Bohm-2- With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.128 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. Ben Tillett, secretary, Dock, Wharf, Riverside, and General Workers' Union, of Great Britain and Ireland, 425 Mile End Road, London, England. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance that the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers.*] President, American Federation of Labor.129 X. Jan. 12, 1909. Mr. H. Levi, Secretary Hand and Hand Society 35 W. 129th St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guaranees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. Thanks for your offer of assistance. The matter will be formulated by the Executive Council and you will be advised. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor130 LF Mr. John G. Meiller, Secretary, Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union, 407 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I wish you would please advise me by return mail whether the Dornette Desk and the Haywood Chair are considered all right by your organization. A gentleman came into my office today and made the inquiry of me and I promised to get the information at the earliest possible moment for him. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 131 LF January 13, 1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, P. O. Box 187, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I wish you would please advise me by return mail whether the Dornette Desk and the Haywood Chair are considered all right by your organization. A gentleman came into my office today and made the inquiry of me and I promised to get the information at the earliest possible moment for him. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 132 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Oliver Troth, Secretary Pro Tem, Central Labor Union, N. W. Cor. Fourth & Market Sts., Camden N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instance is received and contents noted. In regard to the subject matter of the illustrated lecture course, let me say that this is one of the matters scheduled for the consideration of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, which is now in session in this city. Of course I cannot foretell what action the Council may take in the matter, but in any event, I will endeavor to advise you at the earliest opportunity. With kind regards, I beg to remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.133 LF January 13, 1909 Mr. Chas. Ro. Gowen, 201 Columbia Building, Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 9th instant is received and contents noted. I would like to comply with your request to furnish you with copy of the evidence submitted in the Buck's Stove and Ruggs Company Injunction Case, but we have only two copies for the records of our office and I do not think it would be possible for you to obtain a copy anywhere. However, I am sending you copy of Justice Wright's decision, sentencing Secretary Morrison, Vice-president Mitchell and me to six, nine and twelve months imprisonment for contempt of court. Thanking you for your kind offer for any service within your power and hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor 134 IF January 13, 1909 Mr. James T. Manee, Secretary, Hartford Central Labor Union, P. O. Box 29, Hartford, Conn, Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th instant is received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that both Secretary Morrison and I have received a number of letters in regard to the controversy between the Douglas Shoe Company and the Boot and Shoe Workers International Union, and have decided to place the entire matter before the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which is now in session in this city. Your letter will be placed among the other papers in this case for the consideration of the Executive Council. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.135 LF January 13, 1909 Mr. Emmett L. Adams, Room 3, Naval Lodge Building, Washington, D.C. My dear Mr. Adams: Your favor of the 11th instant in received and contents noted. I appreciate greatly your courtesy in writing me and in transmitting to me the very kind expression made by the young lady to whom you refer. I wish you would give me her name and her address, for I should like to send her, through our printed matter, some of the things for which the labor movement stands, and which I have expressed. As she evidently feels an interest in this line of human endeavor, she will no doubt be interested in further information upon this subject. Very sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.136 M January 13, 1909. Mr. J. W. McConnell, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Shamokin, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is at hand and contents noted. I regret very much to hear of the conditions existing in Shamokin, but if you it will not be possible to revive interest in the Central Labor Union, I would ask that you kindly return charter to this office. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.137 M January 13, 1909. Mr. Jesse Miller, Org., Middlebrook, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 5th, from the above place, has been received and contents noted. I would suggest, however, that you furnish this office with a permanent address, as we are constantly sending circulars and letters from this office, and we do not wish to have them returned. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*138*] M January 13, 1909. Mr. Joseph E. Kanmin, 753 Glenmore Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 8th instant is at hand in which you request information on the "Closed shop." In reply would say that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the San Francisco and Pittsburg Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlets of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases, by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammermark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N. Y. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate139 J. E. K. 2. is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.140 M January 13, 1909 Mr. Arthur Cohen, 97 Cedar St. New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 11th instant, addressed to American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York City, has been forwarded here, in which you request information and literature favoring the "closed shop" principle. In reply would say, that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "Closed Shop" in my reports to the San Francisco and Pittsburg Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlets of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled, "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases, by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer to you a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N. Y. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you write is fully141 A. C. 2. covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Very truly yours, [signature Samuel Gompers] President American Federation of Labor. 142 M January 12, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant, enclosing letter from Arthur Cohen, addressed to the American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York City, has been received, and beg to say that by this mail I am writing to Mr. Cohen and sending him literature on the “Closed Shop.” Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.143 M January 13, 1909. Mr. David Schoenberg, East High School, Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 6th instant is at hand, in which you state that you are to take part in a debate on the question "That the open shop promotes the welfare of the workingman better than the closed shop, " and you wish some material in favor of the closed shop. In reply would say, that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to San Francisco and Pittsburg Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlets of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work, How, When and Where He Pleases, by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop" published by Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal, " Rochester, N.Y.144 D.S. (?) as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Should there be any published report made of your debate, I will appreciate it, if you will kindly see that copy is sent to me. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 145 M January 13, 1909. Mr. A. E. Sanders, 823 Maggie St., Marinette, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant is at hand, in which you tender your resignation as volunteer organizer for Marinette, stating that you are about to leave the city. I very much regret that you can not continue your work as organizer, but of course under the circumstances, I can only accept your resignation, and take this opportunity to thank you for the good work performed by you while acting in that capacity. I trust that although no longer connected with the A.F. of L. as our official organizer you will yet lend your influence wherever possible to the strengthening and advancement of our great cause. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 146 M January 13, 1909. Mr. A. W. Smith, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 7512 Coles St., South Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison is at hand, relative to the appointment of Albert Michau, as volunteer organizer for South Chicago and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Michau in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With Kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.147 Z Jan. 13, 1909. Mr. Patrick McMullin, Secretary-Treasurer, International Printing Pressmen and Assistant' s Union, Lyric Theatre Bldg., Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th Inst., in which you advise your convention will be held in June, beginning on the 21st, instead of the 14th of that month. I beg to advise that the correction will be made in the list being published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.148 LF Janurary 12, 1909 Mr. E. L. Fox, Randolph-Macon College, Ashland, Va. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is entirely taken up with the important work of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th instant, in which you refer to the manuscript you submitted September 18, 1908. We are still holding the manuscript, but have been unable thus far to publish it as we have been so crowded for space for the publication of matter which was absolutely necessary should be published. It is quite uncertain when we will be able to use it, but if you desire us to do so, we will still hold the manuscript pending a possible opportunity of using it at some time in the future. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.149 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Ewing R. Philbin, 8 College Street, New Haven, Conn. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 6th is received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that I would like to be able to comply with your request to write an article for publication in the Yale Daily News, but I am so overwhelmed with work directly in connection with the labor movement, especially at this particular time, by reason of the court proceedings that I find it absolutely impossible for me to do so. If there is any matter which has been published in the American Federationist which will be suitable for your magazine, I would be pleased to have you use it, of course giving due credit therefor. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.150 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. Louis D. Brandeis, 161 Devonshire Street, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: Re – Traiser & Company President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 11th instant, in which you enclose copy of letter addressed by H. Traiser & Company to Cigarmakers' Local Union #97, under date of January 7th, and also copy of your letter to Mr. Frank H. McCarthy, of same date, both letters bearing upon the above subject. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.151 LF January 12, 1909 Mr. H. A. Breitenstein, Secretary, Enid Trades Council, 503 Chamber of Commerce, Enid. Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that if you will indicate which congressmen it is you have in mind, I shall be glad to give you any information within my power as to their attitude as regards pending legislation in which labor is particularly interested. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.132 LF January 13, 1909. Mr. Edw. P, Baum, Organizer, 303 West Ninth Street, Belleville, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.153 LF January 13, 1909 Mr. William Atchison, President, Local #110, United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners, 2010 Penn, St. Joseph, Mo Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving AMerican people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we content, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers (signature) President, Americal Federation of Labor. 154 LF January 13, 1909 Mr. Wm. M. Peterson, Secretary, Birmingham Typographical Union Local #104, P. O. Box 868, Birmingham, Ala. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is off lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, [Samuel Gompers*] President American Federation of Labor.155 LF January 13, 1909 Mr. Louis O. Jahns, Solicitor, The Continental Insurance Co. 280 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Friend: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers, and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.156 LF January 13, 1909 Mr. R. F. Duckworth, Editor, Farmers' Union News, Union City, Ga. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.157 Z Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Andrew P. Dunnigan, Secretary, Local #77, National Brotherhood of Operative Potters, Box 155, Mannington, W. Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends in all walks of life have also telegraphed and written me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of you committee's letter and to say to you that from the many communications of this character that have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with John Mithcell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.158 Z Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. J. N. Weber, President, American Federation of Musicians, 1344 Broadway, Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, 4nd therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mithcell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regard and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.159 Z Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Thomas Doyle, Secy-Treas., District Council of Cement Workers, 200-18 Guerrero St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain this principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to this line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.160 Z Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary, Labour Council, Labor Temple, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for this great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers,*] President, American Federation of Labor.161 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Ernest Bohm, Cor. Sec., Central Federated Union, 184 Eldridge St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your two favors of the 11th inst. to hand and contents noted. I am informed that the 250 copies of circular letter of Dec. 25th to State Federation and City Centrals were given to you personally while here, and am therefore sending you only a copy of the decision of Judge Wright, under separate cover, as asked for. Withbest wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor162 X. Jan. 14, 1909. American Publishers' Association, Chicago, Illinois. Gentlemen: Your favor of the 8th inst. to hand and contents noted. I am sending you photograph as requested, under separate cover, to illustrate biography. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.163 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Paul Breen, President, Union Services Organization Romaine Bldg., Paterson, N.J. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 12th inst. received and contents noted, and in reply thereto I am enclosing you a new list of organizers, as per my previous letter. Very truly yours Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 164 X. Jan. 14, 1909 Miss Alice Henry, Member Executive Committee, The Women's Trade Union League 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Madam: President Gompers' entire time being taken up with the immediate work of the Executive Council, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th inst., and in reply thereto am sending you, under separate cover, an artists proof to be used in the Advocate per your request. We have no good photographs at present, and am therefore compelled to send you the above reproduction. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 165 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. John J. Keegan, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 2333 Central Ave., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I do not anticipate being in Indianapolis during the Mine Workers' Convention. In fact, my engagements are of such a character as will necessitate my presence in the east. Then again, in regard to the protest meeting which you say will be held under the auspices of the Central Labor Union, I am exceedingly doubtful as to the wisdom or propriety of my attending any of these protest meetings. I have had the matter under consideration in connection with other protest meetings, and have come to the conclusion that it will be better for the interests of labor that I should not attend any of them. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers,*] President, American Federation of Labor.166 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 3d. Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: I am enclosing you copy of letter received from the Hebrew Legitimate Actors' Union, Local #7, of New York City. I have looked carefully through all records in this office and am unable to find anything in reference thereto. I am therefore sending you a copy in the hope that you can supply some information on this subject, and will await a word from you before replying to the Union. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.167 COPY. HEBREW ACTORS' LEGITIMATE UNION, Local #7, Section 2. 106 Forsyth St., New York City, Jan. 9, 1909. Hon. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: The undersigned begs to submit to you the following: As our Local #7, Section 2, of Actors National P. U. in our agreement with Sec. 1, 3, 5 & 6 and witnesseth by the A. F. of L. Central F. Union, United Hebrew Trade and Actors National Protective Union signed by all Sections, and as Section 1 has violated some conditions of the agreement and in order to have the matter settled, we beg of you to be so kind and order a meeting of all parties concerned and the witnesses to the agreement that they may settle the wrongs. Trusting that you will do us the favor and thanking you in advance, we beg to remain, Yours very respectfully, Hebrew Actors' Union Local 7, Sec. 2, (signed) A. Littman, Chairman. Seal. 168 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Miss Melvia Richter, Fin. Sec., Tobacco Strippers Union #10422, 1697 E. 17th Ave., Denver, Colo. Dear Madam: President Gompers' time being taken up entirely with the immediate work of the Executive Council, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 9th inst., which will be brought to his attention at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 169 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Harry Leeveany, President, Mr. Lee Morton, Secretary, Mr. James L. Barry, Business Manager, Local #1, Actors National Protective Union, #6 Union Square, New York City. Gentlemen: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 12th inst., inasmuch as President Gompers' time is entirely taken up with the immediate work of the Executive Council now in session in this city. I am sure that he, Mr. Mitchell, and Mr. Morrison will appreciate your letter greatly. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.170 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. J. Mahlon Barnes, Nat'l. Secretary, The Socialist Party, 160 Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Allow me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 11th inst., by direction of President Gompers, also the information on the case of the Mexican refugees. We just got the papers in time for the purpose we had in mind. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.171 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. G. E. di Palma Castiglione, Manager, Labor Information Office for Italians, 59 Lafayette St., New York City. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is entirely taken up with the immediate work of the Executive Council, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 12th inst. In reply thereto, beg to say our Hawaiian correspondent is Mr. Robert Gosling, Box 661, Honolulu, Secretary of the Central Trades and Labor Council of that city. He will give you all assistance possible. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*172*] LF January 13, 1909 Mr. John Wadsworth, 2 Huddersfield Road, Barnsley, Yorks, England. Dear Friend: Your favor of December 26th has been duly received and under separate cover the copies of the "Howden V. the Yorkshire Miners' Association, 1902 to 1905"; The Conspiracy Case tried in the High Court of Justice, 1904, The Conspiracy Case tried in the Court of Appeal, 1905, and the Conspiracy Case tried in the House of Lords, 1906, for which you will please accept my thanks. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor is now in session in this city and as you can readily appreciate, I am so overwhelmed with work in direct connection with the council meeting, that I can give but little attention to my correspondence. However, I thought that I must write you even though briefly, and send you, in compliance with your request, copy of Justice Wright's decision sentencing Mr. Mitchell, Morrison and me to nine, six and twelve months imprisonment for contempt of court. I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison, and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the173 Mr. John Wadsworth––2 Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, are of lesser umportance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. The members of the Executive Council all wish to be most kindly remembered to you and Mrs. Wadsworth, in which I most heartily join. With kindest regards and hoping to hear from you again whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Please write me soon and regularly S. G.174 M January 14, 1909. Mr. E. M. Menard, Secretary, Vermont State Branch, Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 10th instant is at hand, in which you state that you are in need of a general organizer, and would be willing to pay half the expenses incurred, said expenses to be approved by members of the Executive Board. In reply I beg to say that the Federation funds are in such a condition at present as to make it impossible to appoint any additional organizers, but you can understand that if we have not the funds with which to pay the salary and meet the expenses of an organizer to would be worse than folly to make the appointment. If later we are able to take the matter under consideration, we will be glad to do so. I note what you say relative to Organizer Cruickshank, and his name will be removed from our list in accordance with your request. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers,*] President American Federation of Labor.175 M January 13, 1909. Mr. Harold Dougherty, Park River, N. D. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 4th instant is at hand, in which you state that the Park River High School is going to have a debate on the question "That the Naturalization Laws of the United States should be so extended so as to include Japanese," and request some information on this matter. In reply let me say that immigrants who are in this country and who will not conform to American methods of living, and to the methods pursued by the wage workers in their efforts to better thir conditions must naturally be harmful to workingmen and working women of our country. The strength of this country is in the intelligence and strength of its working people. The need of regulations is now felt, and may be more sharply felt in the near future, when there may be quite a number workmen unemployed and when the possibility is that the number may be augmented, and yet the fact that immigration, with its cheap labor is increasing, and its effect even at the slightest stagnation in the industrial crisis is prejudicial, aye, dangerous, to the interests, welfare and progress of the American workman. It is not the purpose of the American Federation of Labor 176 H. D. 2. shores for the purpose of their own material, moral and social improvement, but our people should certainly protect themselves from indiscriminate immigration. We can not permit the Japanese, with his prejudices, his peculiar "civilization," which he regards as much greater and higher than ours, with his low moral standard of living and his poor conception of our institutions, and his racial antagonism to our hopes and aspirations and ideals to have free and unrestricted access to this country. There is no hope, no possibility of any assimilation between the Mongolian and the Caucausian. It would be most ruinous to us, even were it possible. Nor should the American people or the American workmen be called upon to bear the indicriminate immigration of others, whose presence and influence tend to deteriorate, rather than enhance the progress of our people. As one of the means to the accomplishment of this purpose, the American Federation of Labor has declared that no laborer should come to our country under contract, written or implied, and that a test of illiteracy should be required. The Nashville Convention of the American Federation of Labor pronounced in favor of an educational test for immigrants, and the Boston Convention in 1903, passed the following resolution: "That the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor is hereby ordered to assist the Commissioner General of the United States Immigration in the passage by Congress of an educational clause in the Immigration Law to protect American labor." I would call your attention to articles on pages 95 and 97 of the February issue 1906, of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. This issue contains an editorial on Chinese Exclusion policy, and addresses dealing with various phases of immigration before Conferences on Immigration177 H. D. 3. migration held December 1905, in New York City. I would suggest that you refer to the Proceedings of the Minneapolis Convention of the A. F. of L. which was held in November 1906, especially to the action taken by the Convention upon the subject of Immigration. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 178 LF January 13, 1909 Mr. Herbert N. Casson, 274 West 140th St. New York, N.Y. My dear Mr. Casson: Your favor of the 11th instant is received and contents noted. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor is now in session in this city and I brought to the attention of my colleagues the subject matter of your letter. In connection with this matter, I beg to call your attention to a resolution adopted by the Chicago, 1893, Convention of the American Federation of Labor, which is as follows: "WHEREAS, Discussion of the labor problem does not receive the attention due it by the recognized factors for disseminating knowledge and framing the minds of the people, and WHEREAS, We believe such discussion to be of greatest importance to the welfare and to bettering the conditions of our industrial classes, and WHEREAS, Monthly magazines are numbered among the best literature of the world, therefore be it RESOLVED, That the President of the American Federation of Labor with the advice of the Executive Council, be and is hereby authorized to issue a monthly magazine for the discussion of labor and its interests in all its phases, and be it further RESOLVED, That inducements be offered to agents selected from labor organizations, in various parts of the country to solicit subscribers. RESOLVED, That it is the sense of this convention that steps be taken upon adoption of these resolutions to carry them into execution." You will thus understand that the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST179 Mr. Herbert N. Casson--2 is the official publication of the American Federation of Labor and that it is explicitly directed that it shall be published monthly. Of course that does not involve that no other paper be published but that the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST shall be [XXX] recognized as the official publication of the American Federation of Labor. I firmly believe that a labor paper published weekly would be of great advantage. However, we would not have the authority to publish a weekly paper, except by direction of the convention of the American Federation of Labor. I would like to have the opportunity of discussing the matter with you. It will receive the attention of the Executive Council and possibly some recommendation may be made. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [Please write me.]180 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Hon. Alton B. Parker, #3 South William St., New York City. Dear Sir: In conformity with our understanding, I beg to hand you herewith copies of the Wilson Bill, the Pearre Bill, the British Trades Dispute Act, bill drafted by Congressman Wilson, and the letter submitted by Attorney Gavegan. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*Your presence and suggestions at our E.C. meeting was encouraging and helpful. Hope you and Mrs. Parker returned home safely and well. SG*]181 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. J. Ralston, Bond Bldg., City. Dear Sir: In conformity with our understanding, I beg to hand you herewith copies of the Wilson Bill, the Pearre Bill, the British Traders Dispute Act, bill crafted by Congressman Wilson, and the letter admitted by Attorney Gavegan. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.182 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Alva Udell, 445 Washington St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir: President Gompers' entire time time being taken up with the immediate work of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th inst., which will be brought to his attention at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*183*] X. Mr. Ernest Aves, Cosmos Club, City. Dear Sir: Your two favors of the 13th and 14th received, and contents noted. I am sending you herein letters for Messrs. Bickerdike, Cahill, Reid, and Street, also yourself, and the lists of affiliated organizations requested by you. I am also enclosing lists of the labor press of the country, and some marked copies of reports to the conventions bearing upon the subject of your mission here. Trusting that these will be of service to you, and wishing you all success in your undertaking, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.184 X. Jan. 14, 1909. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Mr. C. F. Bickerdike has been appointed by the Government of Great Britain to make an investigation into the industrial conditions prevailing in the United States, that is, as to the condition of the American working people. Among the specific purposes of this investigation, there may be enumerated wages, hours of labor, conditions of employment, cost of living, housing, rentals, as well as terms of trade agreements between unions and employers, and to what extent the conditions of such agreements prevail. I should appreciate greatly any assistance that men in the labor movement, as well as in any other walk of life, may be enabled to render Mr. Bickerdike in the fulfilment of his mission. Thanking you in advance for such assistance as you may be able to render, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor.185 X. Jan. 14, 1909. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Mr. J. R. Cahill has been appointed by the Government of Great Britain to make an investigation into the industrial conditions prevailing in the United States, that is, as to the condition of the American working people. Among the specific purposes of this investigation, there may be enumerated wages, hours of labor, conditions of employment, cost of living, housing, rentals, as well as terms of trade agreementsbbetween unions and employers, and to what extent the conditions of such agreements prevail. I should appreciate greatly any assistance that men in the labor movement, as well as in any other walks of life, may be enabled to render Mr. Cahill in the fulfilment of his mission. Thanking you in advance for much assistance as you may be able to render, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.186 X. Jan. 14, 1909. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Mr. G. T. Reid has been appointed by the Government of Great Britain to make an investigation into the industrial conditions prevailing in the United States, that is, as to the condition of the American working people. Among the specific purposes of this investigation, there may be enumerated wages, hours of labor, conditions of employment, cost of living, housing, rentals, as well as terms of trade agreements between unions and employers, and to what extent the conditions of such agreements prevail. I should appreciate greatly any assistance that men in the labor movement, as well as in any other walks of life, may be enabled to render Mr. Reid in the fulfilment of his mission. Thanking you in advance for such assistance as you may be able to render, I am, Very truly yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor.187 X. Jan. 14, 1909. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Mr. J. P. Street has been appointed by the Government of Great Britain to make an investigation into the industrial conditions prevailing in the United States, that is, as to the condition of the American working people. Among the specific purposes of this investigation, there may be enumerated wages, hours of labor, conditions of employment, cost of living, housing, rentals, as well as terms of trade agreements between unions and employers, and to what extent the conditions of such agreements prevail. I should appreciate greatly any assistance that men in the labor movement, as well as in any other walks of life, may be enabled to render Mr. Street in the fulfilment of his mission. Thanking you in advance for such assistance as you may be able to render, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.188 X. Jan. 14, 1909. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Mr. Ernest Aves has been appointed by the Government of Great Britain to make an investigation into the industrial conditions prevailing in the United States, that is, as to the condition of the American working people. Among the specific purposes of this investigation, there may be enumerated wages, hours of labor, conditions of employment, cost of living, housing, rentals, as well as terms of trade agreements between unions and employers, and to what extent the conditions of such agreements prevail. I should appreciate greatly any assistance that men in the labor movement, as well as in any other walks of life, may be enabled to render Mr. Aves in the fulfillment of his mission. Thanking you in advance for such assistance as you may be able to render, I am, Very truly yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor.189 LF Washington, D.C. Jan. 15, 1809 Mr. Richard T. Shea, Grand Central Station, New York, N. Y. On reaching Washington call me up by telephone or come to office. (Charge to A.F. of L.) Samuel Gompers190 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Hon. Robert L. Henry, Judiciary Committee, House of Representatives, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: On Saturday January 9th I sent a written request to Judge Jenkins, Chairman of the Judiciary Committee of the House, and Judge Tirrell, Chairman of one of the sub-committees, asking for an opportunity to make a statement before the full committee in behalf of the American Federation of Labor. Copies of these letters I enclose herein. Up to the present I have received no written reply from Judge Jenkins, but Judge Tirrell has replied as follows: "Washington, D.C., Jan. 14, 1909. Samuel Gompers, Esq., President American Federation of Labor, 423 G St., N.W., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: I did not receive your letter of January 9th until yesterday because it was left at my office in the House Building where I only go occasionally as my work is done in my apartment at the hotel where I reside. Your request is to have a hearing before the full Jueiciary Committee of the House of Representatives for the executive council of the American Federation of Labor between the days of January 11th and 15th inclusive, expecting the morning hours of January 14th. Such a request should be made to the Chairman of the Committee as I have no power to order a hearing before the full committee. Yours truly, (Signed) Charles Q. Tirrell."191 Hon. Robert L Henry: ---2--- Mr. Holder, Legislative Committeeman of the American Federation of Labor, reports that he met Judge Jenkins last night and that the Judge informed him that it was an inflexible rule of the Judiciary Committee that the Chairman should make no arrangements for hearings unless so authorized by the responsible Chairman of the Sub-Committee having the matters in interest at hand. I am sending you this information with the request that this matter be brought to the attention of the Committee, and that at least, if a hearing cannot be had, a written answer may be vouchsafed me to the letter which I wrote. Thanking you in advance, I am, Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.192 M January 9, 1909. Hon. John J[L.] Jenkins, Chairman, Judiciary Committee, House of Rrpresentatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Agreeable to arrangements made between Judge Tirrell and Mr. Holder, Legislative Committeeman of the American Federation of Labor, yesterday, January 8, I herewith make a formal request to you for a hearing before the full Judiciary Committee of the House of Representatives, for the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, between the dates of January 11th and 15th inclusive, excepting the morning hours of January 14th. The purpose of making this request is to allow the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to make a statement before the Judiciary Committee of the House in reference to the necessity of amending the Sherman Anti-Trust law, and the necessity for a bill regulating the issuance of injunctions. This request is made, not for the purpose of opening up the hearings or prolonging the questions under consideration, but merely for the purpose of making a statement, which is not anticipated to take more than an hour, unless questions from members of the Committee, which might possibly prolong the conference. I am sending a similar letter to this to the Honorable193 Hon. John L. Jenkins --2 Judge Tirrell, so that it will be thoroughly understood that a meeting of the full Committee is what we desire. Hoping this request may be granted, I am, Very truly yours, (Signed) Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.194 LF Jan. 15, 1909 Mr. J. Wright, Secretary, Tri-City Labor Congress, Box 415, Rock Island, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.195 LF Janyaru 15, 1909 Mr. F. C. Joseyn, Secretary, Alameda Central Labor Council, Central Council Building, 453 Eighth St., Oakland, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many friends, fellow–workers and sympathizers in all walks in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message, and to say to you that from the many communications of this character, which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison, and me, at this crucial time, and the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional gaurantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely [new?] to the line, to devote ourselves, unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.196 LF January 15, 1909 Mr. George Evans, Secretary, Concord Central Labor Union, 135 Rumford St., Concord, N.H. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible toconvey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communications. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, [Signature Samuel Gompers] President American Federation of Labor.197 LF January 15, 1909 Mr. E.F. Dowd, President, Bricklayers and Masons' International Union, No. 2, 196 Lynn St., Holyoke, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to that you from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance that the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to worker harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 198 LF Jan: 15, 1909 Mr. F. A. Smith, Committeeman Central Labor Union c/o 2307 Morgan Ave., Parsons, Kansas Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.199 LF January 15, 1909 Mr. J. C. Kephart, Secretary, Carpenters' District Council 1119 Penn Ave., Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principles of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, andpermanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor200 LF January 15, 1909. Mr. M. J. Gahagan, Secretary, Local #385, International Longshoremen's Association, c/o 3624 Broadway, Galveston, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.201 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. F. Sesma, Secretary, Bartenders' Union, Local #284, 540 Maple Ave., Los Angeles, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my manyduties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.202 Z Jan.15, 1909. Mr. W. M. French, Financial Secretary, The Trade Union League, 115 Bellevue Ave., Atlantic City, N.J. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principles of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards, and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.203 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. John A. Lane, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, Cor. Union and 3rd St., Coshocton, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principles of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards, and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.204 Z Jan. 15, 1909 Mr. Fred P. Brown, Secy-Treas., Mass. State District Union, Int'l. Bro. Stationery Firemen, Holyoke, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principles of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards, and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.205 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Patrick Quinn, Secretary, Marine Trades Council, 67-69 St. Mark's Place, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this ack- nowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I be- lieve I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the consti- tutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards, and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Grompers signature President, American Federation of Labor. 206 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Thomas J. Kelly, Secretary, Carriage and Wagon Workers Trade Council of New York, 199 East 58th St., New York, N.Y.Dear Sir and Brother: Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with Jlhn Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principles of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience )or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards, and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.207 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Andrew Crunelle, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Assembly, 3052 Washington St., Bellaire, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principles of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards, and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.208 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Miss Emma Steghagen, Secretary, Women's Trade Union League, 275 La Salle St., Room 503, Chicago, Ill. Dear Madam: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefor I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards, and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.209 Z Feb. 15, 1909. Mr. John M. Dorney, Special Organizer, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America, 1041 Poplar St., Wilmington, Del. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreserbedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than every for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.210 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Dennis Healy, Gen'l President, Amalgamated Leather Workers Union of America, 4I Swift St., Lowell, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.211 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. C. E. Caulsen, Secretary, L.U. #120, Journeymen Tailors' Union of America, III West 6th St., Topeka, Kans. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for the resolutions sent me. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.212 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. E. J. Snyder, Central Federated Union, 232 West 120th St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.213 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Dr. R. M. McCullough, Secretary, Typographical Union #202, P. O. Box 556, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.214 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Jas. B. Wilson, Secretary, Dist. #15, International Association of Machinists, 23 Park Row, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.215 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. L. W. Butler, Secretary, Central Labor Council, Labor Temple, Los Angeles, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principles of freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.216 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Edward Stern, 4535 Pine St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends in all walks of life have also telegraphed and written me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, but I want to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.217 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. R. P. Middlebrook, Secy-Treas., Federated Trades and Labor Council, Labor Temple, San Diego, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers,*] President, American Federation of Labor.218 Z Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. L. R. Armstrong, President Federated Trades and Labor Council, Venmont and Cypress Sts., San Diego, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffrering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.219 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. S. P. Jones, Rec. Sec., Lodge #44, Int'l. Asso. of Machinists, 1813 Laurel St., Columbia, S. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the pinciples for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. Thanks for offer of assistance. The matter will be formulated by the Executive Council and you will be advised. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am,, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.220 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Carl Springer, Rec. Sec., Musicians' Mutual Protective Union, Local #16, 401 Plane St., Newark, N.J. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with JohnMitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintainthe principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or if a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harderthan ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.221 X. Jan. 15, 1909 Mrs. Raymond Robins, President, The National Women's Trade Union League, 372 W. Ohio St., Chicago, Ill. My dear Mrs. Robins: I feel that I am due you a thousand apologies for not writing to you before this, but I have been so crowded night and day ever since my return from Denver, and especially since Justice Wright's decision in the contempt proceedings, that my intended letter to you has been crowded out. Yes, we received the framed enlarged photograph of the seal of the Women's Trade Union League, and it is now hanging in one of our offices. It is really unpardonable that I did not write to you immediately upon its receipt. I directed one of the clerks to hang it and then it slipped my attention for the time that I had not immediately written you acknowledging its receipt. President Gompers appreciates it very much. There are so many, many things which I would like to say to you but it is useless even to attempt in a letter to say what I have in mind. I will reserve it all until you come to Washington which I hope will be in the near future. I have frequently thought of you and I look forward to your visit. I hope that circumstances may be such that I can go to hear Mr. Robins when he speaks in this city. If Mr. Gompers is in the city when Mr. Robins' meeting is held, he will preside.222 Ms. Raymond Robins --2-- I have been trying to take care of our honored chief, but the pressure is so great that even with my utmost endeavors I cannot relieve him as much as he should have, but you can understand how that is. With kindest regards to both you and Mrs. Nestor, and hoping that I may see you soon in Washington, I am, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.223 X. Jan 15, 1909 Mr. John A Smith, Member, Lodge #406, Int'l Asso. of Machinists, 528 Wales Ave., Bronx, New York City. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' entire time is engrossed by the immediate work of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th inst. containing copy of resolutions adopted by your lodge. I am sure Mr. Gompers will appreciate not only the action of your organization in adopting the resolutions, but also your courtesy in transmitting them to him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.224 X. Jan 15, 1909 Mr. M. Grant Hamilton, 38 Lincoln St., Denver, Colo. My dear Mr. Hamilton: Your favor of the 9th inst. is received today, also clippings enclosed which I have read with a great deal of interest. We have stacks and stacks of editorials, clippings and magazine articles bearing on the contempt case, and I hope soon to get at them to have them properly classified for future reference. Some day they will be of considerable historic value. I was very sorry indeed to hear of your illness, but am glad to note that you are up again and hope you will soon be all right. It seems to me that you ought to get well soon in that climate. The Electrical Workers' case was up before the Council yesterday afternoon. I was in the Council room for a while when both sides were heard. I think you can imagine what the drift of the statements were. With kind regards, and again expressing the hope for your speedy recovery, I am, Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.225 M January 15, 1909 Mr. George Preston, Secretary, International Association of Machinists, McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from the President of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor he calls attention to the fact that your local union #183, has thus far failed to become represented in the State Federation of Labor. The American Federation of Labor, the highest court in the organized labor movement of the country has recognized the necessity for and the helpfulness of State Federations of Labor, and it is a well defined principle and declaration of labor that local unions and central bodies should be represented in State Federations of Labor whenever such bodies are in existence. In the work of the organization of labor, the wisest, most energetic and devoted of us when working individually can not hope to be successful, but by combining our efforts the probabilities of success are thereby just that much increased. This is the recognized working principle in the organization of the wage workers into unions of their respective trades, and the uniting of these locals into international unions. This principle is equally applicable in the case of State Federations of Labor, which are composed of the various unions located226 G. P. 2. in the respective states, and are formed particularly to further labor legislation in the State Legislatures, to see that the laws in the interests of labor are enforced, and to call the attention of the working men and citizens to those legislators and officers who have been unfriendly or antagonistic to the interests of the working people. The combined action of all the local trade unions of a state and the city central bodies, when exerted in favor of a particular measure or in the interest of helping a particular organization is certainly more efficacious than the action of any one union, no matter how powerful it may be. Therefore, apart from it being the clearly defined duty of all local unions and city central bodies to become identified with the State Federation of Labor, it logically follows that self-interest and self-protection should be powerful motives in influencing them into giving their loyal support and co-operation, thereby receiving in return a full measure in time of need. Taken in connection with the work which is being done by the American Federation of Labor in a legislative way, I desire to most earnestly urge that your organization should immediately become part of the State Federation of Labor and give to that body its cordial support and co-operation. Trusting that I may hear from you i regard to the above at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor227 M January 15, 1909. Mr. [J]ohn B. Lennon, Secretary, Journeymen Tailors Int'l Union, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from the President of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor, he calls attention to the fact that your local union # 305, has thus far failed to become repre- sent[e]d in the State Federation of Labor. The American Federation of Labor, the highest court in the orga[n]ized labor movement of the country has recognized the necessity for a[n]d the helpfulness of State Federations of Labor, and it is a well [d]efined principle and declaration of labor that local unions and cent[r]al bodies should be represented in State Federations of Labor wher[e]ver such bodies are in existence. In the work of the organiza- tion [o]f labor, the wisest, most energetic and devoted of us when workin- ing i[n]dividually can not hope to successful, but by combining our effor[t]s the probabilities of Success are thereby just that much in- crease[e]d. This is the recognized working principle in the organization of the wage workers into union of their respective trades, and the unitin[g] of these locals into international unions. This principle is equally applicable in the case of State Federat[i]ons of Labor, which are composed of the various union located 228 J. B. L. 2. in the respective states, and are formed particularly to further labor legislation in the State Legislatures, to see that the laws in the interests of labor are enforced, and to call the attention of the working men and citizens to those legislators and officers who have been unfriendly or antagonistic to the interests of the working people. The combined action of all the local trade unions of a state and the city central bodies, when exerted in favor of a particularly measure or in the interest of helping a particular organization is certainly more efficacious than the action of any one union, no matter how powerful it may be. Therefore, apart from it being the clearly defined duty of all local unions and city central bodies to become identified with the State Federation of Labor, it logically follows that self-interest and self-protection should be powerful motives in influencing them into giving their loyal support and co-operation, thereby receiving in return a full measure in time of need. Taken in connection with the work which is being done by the American Federation of Labor in a legislative way, I desire to most earnestly urge that your organization should immediately become part of the State Federation of Labor and give to that body its cordial support and co-operation. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.229 M January 15, 1909. Mr. William J. Smith, President, South Carolina State Federation of Labor, 1820 Barnwell St., Columbia, S. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant enclosing list of local unions not affiliated with the State Branch is at hand, and I will take the matter up with the respective international unions mentioned. You state that you are waiting to hear my decision in regard to allowing the amount requested, and beg to say that on January 11, I wrote you fully in regard to this matter, and presume our letters crossed. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.230 M January 15, 1909. Mr. C. G. Collins, Secretary pro tem, Monongahela Valley Central Trades Council, Charleroi, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is at hand, in which you gave the list of officers elected at the last meeting of the Council. I note that you have been recommended for appointment as volunteer organizer for that section, and it affords me pleasure to comply with this request, and commission will be issued and forwarded to you under separate cover. There will also be forwarded to you a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure you will find of assistance. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 231 M January 15, 1909. Mr. [?]. W. Malcolmson, LeRoy, Minn. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 11th is at hand, in which you state that you desire some material on the affirmative side of the question "Rescued, That the history of trade unionism in the United States for the past twenty years shows a general tendency detrimental to the best interests of the country." In reply I beg to say that the form of the question is not in accord with the facts in the case, for as has been evidenced by results the organization of the workers into unions of their respective trades has not only been greatly beneficial to the workers themselves, but have resulted to the benefit of the community at large. In view of these facts, therefore, it would not be possible for me to furnish you with material on the affirmative side of the above question. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.232 M January 15, 1909. Mr. John A. Wilson, Secretary, Local Union No. 2407, Huntington, Ark. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant is at hand, and I note [?]at you say relative to the appointment of D. A. Reid of Huntington, a general volunteer organizer for Arkansas, and beg to say that commission was issued to Brother Reid on January 8, on the recommendation of the State Federation of Labor, and no doubt he has received same e[?]e this. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.233 M January 15, 1909. Mr. Jon F. Klinglesmith, Organizer, L.B. 303, Herrin, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant is at hand and contents noted. In compliance with your request I enclose to you copy of the Constitution and By-laws of the Central Trades and Labor Council of Allentown, Pa., which I think you will find of assistance in drafting a Constitution for your Trades Council. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.234 M January 15, 1909. Mr. J. H. Latimer Organizer, Jamestown, North Dakota. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that commission was issued and forwarded to you January 8, and no doubt have you received same before this. In compliance with your request I enclose to you herein pass word for the current term, and am also enclosing your traveling card. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.235 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. F. J. Horan, Secretary, Local #90, Int'l. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 195 Columbus Ave., New Haven, Conn. Dear Sir: President Gompers' entire time being engrossed with the immediate work of the Executive Council of the A. F. of I., now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th inst., and to say that it will be placed with the other papers in this case for the consideration of the Executive Council. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.236 X. January 15, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 3d. Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your two favors of the 14th inst. received and contents noted. I am glad you had the opportunity of talking to Judge Parker and that you have written me so fully in regard thereto. I note the letter you enclose from Mr. John T. McDonough, and in compliance with your request I am sending to you under separate cover copy of the injunction issued by Justice Gould of the District Court, copy of Judge Wright's decision, and also copy of my report to the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor, in which I give the whole history of this case. If you will place these matters in Mr. McDonough's hands I think it will give him the information he desires. I return his letter to you herein. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.237 X. January 15, 1909. Mr. B. A. Larger, General Secretary, United Garment Workers of America, Rm. 116-117-123, Bible House, New York City. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' entire time is eggrossed by the immediate work of the Executive Council, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th, together with check, which has been turned over to Mr. Gompers. In regard to the clipping you enclose, I presume you have seen press reports giving the action of the Executive Council that is, that it has decided to appeal the case of the higher court. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.238 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr James E. Porter, Secretary Dock and Cotton Men's Council, 822 Octavia St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently written by you to this office among other things you refer to the fact that you have not as yet received a renewal of your commission as volunteer organizer for the year 1909 and you desire to know why the commission has not been re[p]issued to you. In reply to beg to say that as you know, any one to hold a commission as volunteer organizer for the American Federation of Labor must be a member in good standing of the organization of his trade, and that organization in full affiliation with the A.F. of L. I am advised by the officers of the Int'l Asso. of Longshore-men that the local union of which you are a member was formerly attached to the Longshoremen's Int'l. Asso. but that it has not paid any per capita tax for more than a year and therefore is no longer in affiliation with the Int'l Organization. Under these circumstances, therefore, you can appreciate the fact that the officers of the Int'l. Asso. object to commission being re-issued to you as volunteer organizer until such time as the organization of which you are a member places itself in good standing with the Int'l. Association, and through that with the American Federation239 James E. Porter --3-- of Labor. I beg to assure you that I shall have no hesitancy whatever in re-issuing the commission to you whenever I am advised by the Int'l. Asso. that your local union has placed itself in good standing and their objection is withdrawn. Hoping to hear from you in regard to this at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.240 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Raymond Robins, 372 W. Ohio St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th inst. in which you offer several suggestions as to the personnel of the Committee on Industrial Education which the Denver convention of the Federation directed should be appointed. This matter will in all probability be taken up by the Executive Council which is now in session in this city, and I am sure Mr. Gompers will appreciate your suggestion. I am making this acknowledgement of your letter as he is so engrossed with the immediate work of the Council as to have no opportunity to give his personal attention, to his correspondence. Asking to be remembered to Mrs. Robins, whom I esteem very highly, I am, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard, Secretary to President Gompers.241 X. Jan. 15, 1909 Mr. Geo. A. Coe, 620 Clark St., Evanston, Ill. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is entirely engrossed with the immediate work of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of Jan. 13th in which you request information as to the action of the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor as regards Industrial Education. I am sending you a copy of the official printed proceedings of that Convention, and would refer you to pages 98 and 234. I might add further taht in all probability this matter will be acted upon by the Executive Council at this session and a Committee appointed at an early date. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President GompersX Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. Jas. E. Roach, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Star Hotel, Columbus, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th inst. is received and contents wanted. In reply I beg to say that unless the constitution of the Columbus Federation of Labor specifically provides otherwise, any member in good standing in the local union of his trade affiliated with the Columbus Federation of Labor, is eligible to any office within the gift of the Central Body. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. G. [?] Perkins, Personal. Moon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th inst. received and contents noted. Now in regard to your suggested as to the Lincoln mass meeting on Feb. 12th, I want to say that I could not attend that meeting with- out attending the protest meeting in the evening of the Chicago Federation of Labor, and as I do not think it would be advisable for me to attend the letter meeting I could not, of course, attend the former. You will excuse the brevity of this reply, but as you can very readily understand I am overcrowded this week by reason of the meeting of the Executive Council. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.244 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. T. P. Menton, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Bureau of Labor and Industry, Topeka, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th inst. received and contents noted. You say: "I wish to ask you whether or not a Central Labor Union has the power to provide in its by-laws for the election of any number of delegates at large and then turn around and elect men as delegate at large over the protest of the locals of which these men as members? It has always been my belief that no delegate could [[?]] in and be a member of a C. L. U. except on duly authorized credentials from his own local union." In reply let me say that through the courtesy of a Central Labor Union any person may be invited to attend and address its meanings. However, no one is entitled to a voice and vote in the proceedings of a Central Body except he be so duly elected delegated from the local union of his trade, unless the laws of the Central Body provide otherwise. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 245 X. Jan. 16, 1909. Mr. C. F. Gearick, R. S., Local 56, Int'l. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 524 E. 7th St., Erie, Pa. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' entire time is engrossed by the immediate work of the Executive Council, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th inst., and to say that this entire matter of the Electrical Workers has been under consideration by the Executive Council, and the national officers of your Organization will notify you of the action taken. Very truly yours, R Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.246 X. Jan. 16, 1909. Mr. Will M. Maupin, Deputy Commissioner, State of Nebraska, Bureau of Labor and Industrial Statistics, Lincoln, Nebr. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th inst. to hand and contents noted. As President Gompers' entire time is taken up with the immediate work of the Executive Council, now in session in this city, I make this acknowledgment. In regard to the subject matter of your letter, let me suggest that you take it up with Mr. Frank A. Kates, the Secretary of the Central Labor Union of Lincoln, whose address is 1020 K St., Lincoln Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.247 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. F. Warren Johnson, 1224 Penn. Ave., City. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your favor of the 14th inst., I beg to enclose to you herein the papers left for me by Mrs. Blincoe. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.248 X. Jan. 16, 1909. Mrs. L. A. Blincoe, 301a3th St., N. W., City. Dear Madam: In conformity with request made by F. Warren Johnson, to send him upon your request the papers you left with me some time ago, I beg to advise you that I am sending them to him by this mail. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.249 X. Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. [?-as] Baker, 220 N St., N. W., City. Dear friend: Having in mind a photograph you made of me, I am writing to inquire whether you have the negative. I do not wish to impose upon your kindness, but I would like it very much if you could make a dom pictures for me, but only with the understanding that I bear the expense, or if you desire and would loan me the negative, I could have made somewhere else. In any event, let me hear from you in regard to the matter, and believe me to be, Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers.250 Washington, D.C., Jan. 16, 1909. Mr. C. L. Baine, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Telegram received just before adjournment. Executive Council insists the matter to which you refer is one between your executive board and the Douglass Company and not between your board and the Executive Council. The Executive Council directs me to urge upon you the necessity of endeavoring by every honorable means to reach an adjustment of the controversy. Samuel Gompers. Charge A. Fo f. L.251 Z Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. H. L. Fagin, First Vice-President, Union Life Insurance Co., Victor Building, Kansas City. Mo. Dear Sir: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends in all walks of life have also telegraphed and written me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, but I want to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principl e of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few man, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 252 Z Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. J. T. Sheehan, Editor Tri-City Labor Review, 219 18th St., Rock Island, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I have your favor of the 14th inst. in which you ask for cuts of the vice-presidents of the American Federation of Labor. I am sorry that we have not them at hand; they are loaned out. I regret that I am not able to oblige you in this matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. 253 z Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. J. D. MacCaughey, Publisher, The News-Advocate, P. O. Box 305, Stockton, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: In compliance with the request contained in your favor of January 4th, I am sending you enclosed herein a copy of the "Labor Press and Official Journals". Permit me to thank you for your expressions of sympathy with Messrs Mitchell and Morrison and myself in regard to the recent court decision. Many other sympathizers in all walks of life have also written me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, but I went to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with us in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Z Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. C.T. Ladson, General Counsel, The Farmers' Educational and Co-Operative Union of America, 43 ½ Whitehall St., Atlanta, Ga. Dear Sir: I am instructed by President Gompers to acknowledge re- ceipt of your favor of the 15th Inst., with which you enclose copy of an editorial which you wrote and which was copied in the "Farmers' Union News", and to thank you for the same. Mr. Gomper s would write you personall were it not for the great pressure of work requiring his attention. Very truly yours, [Signature: R. Lee Guard] Secretary, to Pres. Gompers, American Federation of Labor 255 z, Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. T. A. Carpenter, Fort Dodge, Ia. Dear Sir: President Gompers has instructed me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 15th Inst. and to thank you for your sympathetic and encouraging expressions regarding the recent court decision and also for the newspaper clipping of an article written by yourself which you enclose. Mr. Gompers would write to you personally but for the pressure of important work requiring his attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.256 Z Jan. I8. I909. Mr. C. C. Brock, Editor, Buffalo Republic, 542 Ellicott Sq., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir: Will you kindly return to me at your earliest convenience the cuts of the members of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, which were loaned you some months ago and oblige Yours very truly, Sanil Gromper President, American Federation of Labor.257 X. Jan. 18, 1809. Mr. Wm. J. Spencer, Secretary, Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., 423 Colo. Bldg., City. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to hand you herewith copy of letter from Robert Bandlow, Manager of the Cleveland Citizen of Cleveland, Ohio, which is self-explanatory. He will be glad to hear from you at your convenience. Very truly yours, K. Lee Luart258 Cleveland, O., Jan. 13, 1909. Samuel Gompers, Esq., President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. My dear Gompers: I find myself in a perplexing condition and look to you for some suggestion to solve the problem. The Building T[V]rades Department of this city is about to organize a bricklayers union known as #5. The local connected with the international refuses to join the Building Trade Department. I deplore this shortsightedness of the Building Trades is not identifying themselves with the A. F. of L. and the Central Bodies throughout the land. I don't believe in dual organizations. How to open the eyes of workingmen to the necessity of affiliating themselves with fellow craftsmen has caused me considerable worry. But I don't like to advocate or become a party to disrupting a trade or craft union though they apparently should be called to task in some way. Just now a little tact and diplomacy in handling the Building Trades Department affairs might accomplish great good. No. 5 appointed a committee, I understand, to meet with a committee from the B. T. D. No. 5 submitted some propositions the nature of which I am not conversant with. Instead of notifying the union that its propositions were not acceptable as I am told they were not, the B. T. D. simply broke off negotiations and ordered its business agent to proceed and organize a bricklayers union under jurisdiction of the Department. Do you believe this good policy? Should not a less antagonistic course have been pursued? No. 5 has between 600 and 800 members. They are working under agreement with the masterbricklayers. What is to be the outcome if a hundred or two refuse to join with the B. T. D.? Are we to be charged with working into the hands of the manufacturers association and Builders Supply Association, who would boil with delight at another fight among the wageworkers of the Building Trades? Is it not possible for you to suggest to the national officers of the B. T. D. to use caution in their efforts to force tradesmen into their organization. You know that as a unionist I have repeatedly been charged in trying to disrupt, it has never proved me such, because I am conscious of not having done anything to warrant such claim. I have tried to pacify and with some success, many who become disheartened because of the mistakes made. But I cannot conceive how bulldozing tactics can avail with an organization like the Bricklayers and fear that if these methods are continued it will only be disastrous to our cause. Particularly at this time, when we need unity of action most. In conclusion I can only say that I hope organized labor will be successful in it contention for a free press and free speech. To be deprived of our liberty for a twelve month is not an agreeable aspect, yet better behind bars than shown of our right to battle for labor's cause. But I anticipate our friend, the enemy, will realize his mistake and it will not be necessary for you and your colleagues to languish in confinement. Hoping to hear from you at earliest convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Robert Bandlew.260 X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. Herbert W. Denio, Economic Department, University of Illinois, Library, Urbana, Ill. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 7th inst. to hand and contents noted. I am sending you under separate cover two sets of all the pamphlets and literature published by this office which you will please accept with my compliments. Now as to the official printed proceedings of the annual conventions of the American Federation of Labor, while I should like to present your Department with a complete set of these proceedings, yet I regret my inability to do so for the following reasons. A few years ago the demand had become so great for our official proceedings that it became necessary for us to have the complete proceedings re-published and re-bound, which as you can very readily understand was at a heavy expense to the Federation. We are now prepared to furnish a complete set of the proceedings, bound and indexed, for $15.00. We could furnish some odd copies of the intervening years which you say your library does not have but some of these would be without any index, as in the early years of the Federation when the proceedings were printed and bound they were not indexed. Please advise me further in regard to this matter. 261 Mr. H. W. D. --2-- In compliance with your request I am enclosing a list giving the names and addresses of the secretaries of the affiliated organizations. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor262 X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. W. H. Dase, Chairman Committee, Typographical Union #117, #2 Johnson Bldg., Springfield, O. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of your invitation to participate in the celebration and banquet in honor of the anniversary of the birth of Benjamin Franklin, on January 18th. It should be unnecessary for me to say to you that it would afford me real pleasure to accept you invitation, but I regret to say that my engagements are of such a character as will not permit me to participate in the banquet. I take this opportunity, however, of expressing the sincere hope that the banquet and entertainment may be most enjoyable in every way. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers,*] President, American Federation of Labor.263 X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. E. G. Hohenthal, State Chairman, Conn. Prohibition State Committee, South Manchester, Mass. Dear Sir: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 16th inst. in which you ask for "copy of President Gompers' address at the annual meeting, held in Norfolk last summer." I am rather in doubt as to your meaning, but presume that you want President Gompers' report to the last convention held in Denver. I am therefore sending you copy under separate cover. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.264 X. Jan. 18, 1908 Mr. G. E. Wilson, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, 1719 25th Ave., Gulfport, Miss. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet i find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of Liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. Thanks for offer of assistance. The matter will be formulated by the Executive Council and you will be advised later. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.265 X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. Orvin B. Gray, Secretary, Local Salem, Socialist Party of Ohio, Salem, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am rihgt in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers,*] President, American Federation of Labor.[*266*] Jan. 18, 1909. X. Mr. David Levy, President, Cigar Makers' Int'l. Union #13, c/o Mr. H. Michaels, 1487 5th Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgeme nt of your message and to say to you that from many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitution guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under these circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. Thanks for the offer of assistance. The matter will be formulated by the Executive Council and you will be advised. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.267 X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. John Lyons, Secretary Treasurer, Metal Polishers, Buffers, Platers, Brass Holders, Brass & Silver Workers' Union of N. A., Neave Bldg., Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchel, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*268*] Jan. 18, 1909. X. Mr. John Dowling, Rec. Secretary, Hakcman's Union, Local #224, Int'l. Brothershood of Teamsters, 615 Grove St., San Francisco, Cal. [*266*] Jan. 18, 1909. X. Mr. David Levy, President, Cigar Makers' Int'l. Union #13, c/o Mr. H. Michaels, 1487 5th Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitution guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under these circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.269 X. Jan. 18, 1909 Jas. A. O'Rourke, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 267 1/2 Congress St., Portland, Me. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th inst. received, and I have carefully noted all that you say in regard to the conditions existing among the different local organizations in Portland. I do not know that I have any special instructions in Portland. I do not know that I have any special instructions to offer, except simply to do the best that you can as circumstances may indicate to strengthen and build up the organizations and to revive the interest of the members. As you are upon the ground and familiar with local conditions, it would appear to me that you would be better able to judge as to the most efficacious course to pursue to bring about the desired result than would anyone located to pursue at a distance. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you again whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 270 LF January 18, 1909 Mr. W. C. Roorbach, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 127 E. Perry St., Du Quoin, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to tank you for message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me. At this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor 271 LF January 18, 1909 Mr. E. W. Blakely and Labor Council, 807 W. Clay, St., Richmond, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find It impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison, and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in the communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor272 LF January 18, 1909 Mr. A. B. MacStay, Secretary, Pattern Makers Association of New York, Germania Bank Building, Spring St. Cor. Bowery, New York Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow--workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to that from the many communications of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty--loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. 273 LF January 18, 1909 Mr. C. L. Lowery, Secretary, Local #14 Intl. Bro. of Leather Workers on Horse Goods, 1211 DeBorr Ave., Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and Me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 274 Z. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. D. D'Alessandro, Acting General President, International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers Union, 144 North St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th Inst. has been recieved, in which you ask on what date you could meet me. In reply I beg to advise that I am very much crowded with work but will try and arrange to see you for an hour on Thursday, at about noon. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gomper President, American Federation of Labor. [*275*] X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. Joseph B. Ford, President, The Buffalo Republic, Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your telegram and your letter confirming the same in which you say that the Buffalo Republic will contribute $50. and undertake to raise more as a contribution toward the fund to be raised for the purpose of bearing the expenses involved in appealing the injunction case and the decision in the contempt proceedings to the higher courts. I want to thank you and to assure you that your action in this matter is greatly appreciated by the undersigned. The Executive Council directed that such an appeal to All Organized Labor, Friends, and Sympathizers be issued, and we expect to place this in the mails in the course of a day or two. In the meantime, an advance copy of the appeal has been sent to you under separate cover, as well as furnished to other newspapers and press agencies. Again thanking you, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.276 X. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. Neil Krantz, Rec. Sec., Central Labor Union, 148 E. 15th St. Traverse City, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: I have before me your letter in regard to the fine placed upon Peter Hormouth by the Central Labor Union of Traverse City. You say that Hormouth refuses to pay the fine of $15, and that the C. L. U. appealed to the Cigar Makers' Union to collect it. You then desire to know whether the C. L. U. has a right to place the fine in question. In reply I beg to say that in my opinion the placing of fines by a Central Body is illegal as well as unwise and inexpedient. A Central Body could exert its influence in a different and better way than by the imposition of fines upon members of unions. The results may not be obtained as quickly, but are usually more permanent. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.277 Z Jan. 18, 1909. Miss Laura W. Corder, State Organizer 211 W. Noble Ave., Oklahoma, City, Okla. My dear Madam: Your favor of the 14th Inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that one of the requirements of any applicant for appointment as volunteer organizer of the American Federation of Labor is that he or she should be a member in good standing of a local union affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. If this is true in your case I should have no hesitancy whatever in issuing a commission to you as volunteer organizer upon the re- commendation of the Central Labor Union of Oklahoma City. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers Signature President, American Federation of Labor.278 X. Jan. 18,1909 Mr. M Lafayette- Savoy, President, American Civic Alliance, 43 Cedar St., New York City Dear Sir: Your favor of the 14th inst. to hand, in which you extend me an invitation to attend the annual banquet of the American Civic Alliance, to be held at the Plaza Hotel on February 20th. I should be glad to accept your invitation, but as matters now appear it is scarcely probably that I will be able to do so. However, should I find later on that circumstances will so shape themselves as to permit my accepting the invitation, I will write you further, buy I very much doubt I can be with you. Very truly yours. Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. P.S. Kindly write me again about the end of the month and I may be able to give you more definite information.[*279*] Z. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. John T. Smith, Secretary-Treasurer, Missouri State Federation of Labor, 1112 Locust St., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th Inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that from information received it appears that numbers of central labor unions throughout the country are holding and are arranging to hold protest meetings and I think it would not be an unwise move on the part of the Central Body at Kansas City to hold such a meeting. In a day or two we will send out a circular letter to all organized labor in regard to the further action to be taken by the Executive Council in the injunction and contempt proceedings, copy of which will of course be forwarded to you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 280 X. Jan 19, 1909. Mr. John Williams, Secretary, Amalgamated Asso. of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, Heuse Bldg. Smithfield & Water Sts., Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of translation of letter which I have just received from an iron and steel worker in Austria which is self-explanatory. I wish you would write to him direct and give him any information you can as to the advisability of him and his friends coming to this country and finding employment as iron and steel workers. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*282*] Translation. Kamevchof Lower Austria, Jan. 3, 1909 To the Federation of Labor of North America. I kindly request the Federation of Labor to inform me whether there is any possibility of getting employment in an iron or Steel works, any in either of the following cities: New York, Washington, Chicago or Cleveland? Several men like myself would like to emigrate to America, and not knowing anyone over there to address, in the matter, we take the liberty of making our wishes known to you, and in looking forward to a favorable reply. I am, Very respectfully yours, Florian Schlager Address: Florian Schlager Sensenschmied in Kamerchof, Post Ab Grafendorf Nieder Osterrich, Europe. [*283*] Washington, D. C., Jan. 19, 1909. Mr. J. A. Franklin, Kaiserhof Hotel, Chicago, Ill. Have requested Treasurer Lennon to represent Federation at conference twenty-second. SAMUEL GOMPERS Charge A. F. of L. Washington, D. C., Jan. 19, 1909. Mr. John S. Lennon, Bloomington, Ill. Will you as representative Executive Council attend conference Boiler Makers Bridge and Structural Iron Workers Chicago January twenty-second. Wire answer. Also wire President Franklin Kaiserhof Hotel. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.284 LF January 19, 1909 Mr. Frank Feener, Sedretary, Local #31, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators, etc., 517 Taylor St., Syracuse, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message.. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconveniences or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance that the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon your and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devore ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.285 X. Jan. 19, 1909. Mr. John C. Wilson, 324 3d. Ave. W., Calgary, Alta., Can. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 12th inst. received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am enclosing to you under separate cover a package of the leaflet "American Federation of Labor" which I trust you can use to advantage. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. 286 M January 19, 1909. Mr. John J. O'Neill, Organizer, 378 Olive St., Bridgeport, Conn. Dear Sir and Brother Your favor of the 15th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that at present Organizer Reid is engaged in special organization work at Rochester, N. Y. and it would be very difficult and inconvenient at this particular time, to have him attend the Convention of the Connecticut State Federation of Labor at Hartford. I regret not being able to comply with your request, but under the circumstances it would not be possible to do so. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. 287 X. Jan. 19, 1909. Mr. Chas. W. Fear, Secretary, Legislative Committee, Mo. State Federation of Labor, Baltimore Hotel, Jefferson City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Jan. 14th to hand and contents noted. Let me say that I heartily appreciate your expressions of loyalty and allegiance to the American Federation of Labor and its officers in their fight for the principles involved of human liberty and human freedom. The Executive Council has been in session in Washington during the past week, and before adjournment voted unanimously to carry the case XX of the Buck's Stove and Range Company's suit and the decision in the contempt proceedings for violation of that injunction to the highest courts in the land. Of course, you realize that the funds of the Federation are limited, and the expense involved in carrying on said suits will amount to considerable. A circular is now in preparation and will be forwarded to all the affiliated unions within a short time, asking them to make as liberal donations as possible for them to make for the purpose of carrying on these appeals. Relative to the legislation which you contemplate asking the legislature of your state to pass, let me suggest that an Anti- Injunction law along the lines of the Pearre Bill, H. R. 94, copy of which you will please find enclosed, together with an effective288 Mr. Chas, W. Fear --2-- Fight Hour Law and a comprehensive Employers' Liability Bill be presented to the legislature of your state. Let me suggest that your energies be directed in an effort to have these important measures passed during this session of the legislature. With best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. 289 X. Jan. 19, 1909. Mr. H. F. Trott, 1151 E. Rich St., Columbus, O. Dear Sir: In compliance with your favor of the 18th inst., I am sending you under separate cover copy of the decision of Justice Wright in recent contempt case. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. [*290*] Jan. 19, 1909. X. Mr. Chas. H. Sherton, Secretary, Central Trades Council, 69 St. Michael St., Mobile, Ala. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitution guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under these circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. Thanks for the offer of assistance. The matter will be formulated by the Executive Council and you will be advised. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.291 X. Jan. 19, 1909 Mr. L. A. Page, General Chairman, Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Palmyra, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: I am sending you under separate cover sample copy of the American Federationist, as per your request of the 16th inst. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 292 X. Jan. 19, 1909 Mr. J. C. Colgan, Organizer, American Federation of Labor 291 Clybourn P., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th inst. to hand and contents noted. I have delayed replying, awaiting receipt of the brief filed which you state was sent under separate cover. It has not been received, however, and I am writing to apprize you of that fact. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor293 Jan. 19, 1909. X. Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, Seventh Vice Pres., American Federation of Labor, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother: I am returning you herewith the bound copy of the testimony given in the injunction case. This is in compliance with your request, and with the understanding that whenever the copy is needed here you will promptly return it to us. As Miss Guard informed you when you were here last week, it is impossible to get any additional copies. I was anxious to get copies for the entire membership of the Executive Council. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.294 X. Jan. 19, 1909 Mr. Thos. Nixon, Jr., 15 Gramercy Park, New York City. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of the copy of your book entitled "Comrades" for which you will please accept his thanks. He hopes to be able to read it at an early date. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.295 X. Jan. 19, 1909 Mr. D. J. Collins, Secretary Lodge 102, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America, 85 Monroe St., Norwood, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience, or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*296*] X. Jan. 19, 1909. Mr. Wm. J. Smith, President, South Carolina State Federation of Labor, 1820 Barnwell St., Columbia, S. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th inst. received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am writing to the executive offi- cers of the various international unions having locals in the state of South Carolina, the list of which you previously sent me, requesting their co-operation with their respective locals in the legislative work of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor. If there is any further assistance which I can render, please advise me and it will be cheerfully and gladly done. Wishing you every success, and hoping to hear from you again whenever convenient, I amm, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 297 AH Jan, 18, 1909. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that W.P. Morrison is duly authorized to install the officers and initiate the delegates, of Central Labor Union of Henderson, Kentucky. Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.298 Washington, D.C., Jan. 19, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, 282 4th Ave., New York City. Important conference Brotherhood Boiler Makers Bridge and Structural Iron Workers Chicago January twenty-second. Presence representative our Federation necessary. Inasmuch as you are to be at Indianapolis Saturday will you act as representative. Wire answer Also wire President Franklin Kaiserhof Hotel. Samuel Gompers. Charge A.F. of L.299 Washington, D.C., Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. Jas O'Connell, Kaiserhof Hotel, Chicago, Ill. Important conference Brotherhood Boiler Makers Bridge and Structural Iron Workers Chicago January twenty-second. Presence representative Federation necessary. Will you act as representative. Wire answer. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A.F. of L.300 A January 16,1909. No. 1. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: I enclose to you herein a copy of a letter received some time ago from Mr. T.W. Rowe, President of the American Flint Glass Workers' Union. The letter came here during a period of great stress. I was under the impression that I had sent a copy of the letter to the Council, but find that I did not. Hence, enclose it herein for your information. I am sure you will find it a most delectable production. Yours fraternally, Sam Gompers President Enc'l American Federation of Labor.301 AMERICAN FLINT GLASS WORKERS' UNION Toledo, O. , Dec. 15/1908. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Bro: In the report of the Executive Council of the A.F. of L. to the Denver convention under the title of "Glass Bottle Blowers -- Flints" you will find the following language in paragraph six, page 76 of the daily proceedings of the convention, "When the conference was held at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, President Rowe and his collegues representing of the American Flint Glass Workers Union declared emphatically that they would not carry out and had no intention of carrying out the decision of the Executive Council and to which he and his colleagues on behalf of his organization agreed and accepted." In V.P. Duncan's remarks before the Denver convention he declared that "The Executive Council got that statement from its President as its delegate to endeavor to bring about an agreement between the two organizations." You addressed the Denver convention after V.P. Duncan alleged that you made the report to the Executive Council, as, herein quoted and which I302 --2-- denied you did not deny the statement of V. P. [Dun?] and we assume thereby that you made the report as alleged by V. P. Duncan, as your remarks concerning the report infers. In your remarks to the Denver convention you stated "I wrote not less than a dozen propositions to submit to the conferees for the purpose of consummating and agreement. Even on of the propositions I write and submitted contained the proposition which is [emodie??] in the decision of the Executive Council and each one of them was rejected by the representatives of the Flint Glass Workers Union." If you [?] [?] attend the meetings that were held between the Green and Flint representatives, if you did not have a copy of our minutes of said meetings, if you were unfamiliar with the relations of the American Fling Glass Workers' Union, with the A. F. of L., we my conclude that you simply erred, but, knowing the true facts connected with the entire affair, we feel it our solemn duty to take this exception to the report of the Executive Council, as, herein quoted and to your remarks as herein quoted. The question of intentional, or unintentional falsehood, we will leave to your conscience, or mind, however, we desire to brand the report of the executive council, is herein quoted and your remarks to the Denver convention, as herein quoted, as false. 303 3 S. G. In substa[?]ation of our sincereity we herewith attach [?]ffidavitts affirming our truth in the charge of a false report and also "remarks" concerning our relations with the American Federation [?]f Labor and we wish that you would peruse the minutes of the meetings [?]eferred to in the Executive Council's report and correct the [?]atement you made to the Denver Convention and the report you made [?] the Executive Council as quoted herein. Under separate cover I mail you a pamphlet issued by [?]r Association on the subject of our relations with the A.F. of [?] and in which you will find the minutes of our Washington meeting. [?] may refreshen your memory on the matter. Our only object in pursuing this course, is to have [?]e truth presented to the Trade Unionists of this country who may [?] interested in the matter. Subscribed and sworn to before me by T.W. Rowe. [?]sident and Treasurer, ) A. F. G. W. U. P. Clarke, Secretary,) T. W. Rowe, Prest. & Treas. Wm. P. Clarke, Secy. [?]s the 2nd day of Dec. 1908. (signed) W.B.McCarthy Notary Public Lucas County, Ohio. [?e] of New Jersey) Subscribed and sworn to before me by Ralph Barber [?]erland County) ss member of Executive [council] Board, this fifth day of December A.D.1908. (signed) Ralph Barber. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Notarial seal this fifth day of December A.D.1908. (signed) Thomas Whitaker, Notary Public of New Jersey.304 S.G. State of Ohio) ) ss Franklin Co.) Subscribed and sworn to before me by John F. Tobin, member of the Executive Board, this 14th day of December A.D.1908. J.F. Tobin. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and notarial seal this 14th day of December A.D.1908. Frank R. Schwartz Notary Public Franklin County, Ohio.305 X. Jan. 19, 1909. 165 E. Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 16th inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I expect to be in New York the latter part of the month and although I have a number of engagements I think we may be able to arrange it so that I could have at least a brief interview with you and Mr. Miller. I expect I will reach New York some time during the day of the 28th and my first engagement is an address under the auspices of the Ethical-Social League, #9 Rd. Ave., the Germanic Assembly Rooms. I cannot say now just what time during the day I will reach New York but if I get there in time you could arrange for the interview format afternoon. Let me hear from you again about next Monday the 25th, when I can in all probability advise you definitely. Sincerely yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.306 X. Jan. 19, 1909. Mr. D. D. Driscoll, Sec. Treas., Mass. State Branch, A. F. of L., Box C, Sta. A. Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th inst. is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that the request of the Mass. State Federation of Labor for the Executive Council to issue a circular and send it to organized labor throughout every state in the union except Mass. in the cause of the Foster testimonial, I beg to say that I have submitted the matter to my colleagues of the E. C. for their decision and I will advise you as soon as a conclusion is reached. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.307 X. Jan. 16, 1909. Mr. J. C. Culkins, General Chairman, The Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Albion, Mich. Dear Sir Your favor of the 14th inst. received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I enclose to you herein copies of the Liability Act passed by the 60th Congress, one for government employees, and the other for railroad employees engaged in interstate commerce. The Executive Council now has under consideration the matter of an Employers' Liability Bill which will be applicable to the States, and I may be able later on, when the matter has taken definite shape, to send you a copy of it. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 308 X. Jan. 15, 1909. Mr. F. H. Ridge, President, The Christian Asso. of Columbia University, Eal Hall, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 13 inst. received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that if I can so arrange it I shall be glad to accept your invitation to deliver an address on Wednesday afternoon, at 4:30, March 17th, but I cannot now make a definite promise. I would therefore be glad if you would write me again about the first of March when I hope to be able to give you a definite reply. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 309 X. Jan. 19, 1909. NO. 2. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: [page folded, word cut off] ---y document #81, Dec. 10, 1908, the E.C. was furnished with a copy of the circular issued by the Mass. State Federation of Labor calling for voluntary financial contributions to aid the family of Frank K. Foster, as referred to in resolution #74. By your authority this circular was given your official endorsement. I am now in receipt of a letter from Secretary Driscoll of the Mass. State Federation of Labor in which he says: "In relation to the Foster testimonial: I have been requested by the officers of the Massachusetts State Branch to write to you urging that your Executive Council issue a circular to be sent in the interest of this testimonial to every state in the Unted States with the exception of Mass., and we feel if this were done it would largely increase our fund. We would be pleased to have you take this matter up and let us know the result of the same." You will please advise me whether it is your desire that the circular above requested shall be issued. Hoping to receive your early reply, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers (signature) President, Americal Federation of Labor. P.S. Our circular for financial assistance for legal defense is now printed and is being put into the mails as fast as the addressed are written. X. Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. John Morrison 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 16th inst. received and contents noted. Referring to my letter of the 14th inst. in which I said that the contract for the Pompeian Mfg. Co. and the Frazer Lubricating Co. called for a quarter and an eighth page respectively, opposite the table of contents, I beg to say that the clerk who gave me this information made a mistake as to one of the contracts, that of Frazer Lubricating Co. While that has been published for some time opposite the table of contents, yet the contract does not call for that space. However, the contract given by Alex. McDowell, one-eighth page, one year, to begin with the Feb. issue calls for space opposite the table of contents, as you will note by the enclosed copy of the contract. The contract for the Pompeian Mfg. Co. as you will note by the enclosed copy, calls for same position as heretofore. The original contract called for space opposite the table of contents. 311 Mr. John Morrison ––2–– Very truly yours, Sam Gompers Editor, American Federationist, President, American Federation of Labor.312 X. Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. Wm. Menkel Review of Reviews, 13 Astor Place, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 15th inst. received and contents noted. You request that one of Mr. Gompers' assistants should inform you if in any of his public addresses or in any numbers of the American Federationist he has discussed the subject of the right of labor unions to recognition by employers. In reply I beg to refer you to the following: October, 1900, | Editorial, page 316. November, 1900 | Editorial, page 351. January, 1902 | Article by E Rosenberg, page 15. January, 1902, | Editorial, page 23. August, 1902, | Address to Ministers, page 435. March, 1903, | Editorial, page 173. October, 1903, | Talks on Labor, page 1051. I regret that we have no copies of the several issues of the magazine to which reference is above made other than in the complete bound volumes for each year. However, they can be committed at the Astor Library. Very truly yours, A. Lee Guard. (signature) Secretary to President Gompers. 313 M. January 19, 1909. Mr. Howard O. Smith, Secretary, Montana State Federation of Labor, P.O. Box 723, Helena, Mont. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th instant is at hand, in which you recommend the appointment of Jacob A. Werner, as volunteer organizer for Helena and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Werner in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance. I regret that you can not continue your work as organizer, but of course under the circumstances, I can only accept your resignation, and thanking you for the good work performed while acting in that capacity. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers (signature) President, Americal Federation of Labor. 314 M. January 19, 1909. Mr. Paul A. Brown 178 West First St., Oswego, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that before commission as volunteer organizer can be issued to you it will be necessary to have your application endorsed by the United States and Labor Council of Oswego. Whenever possible appointments of volunteer organizers are made upon the recommendation of affiliated central bodies, thus making these organizations responsible for such appointments and insuring a greater degree of cooperation and unity in the work. Upon receipt of such endorsement the matter will be given consideration. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers (signature) President, Americal Federation of Labor.315 M January 19, 1909. Mr. V.D. Wells, 573 S. First West St., Salt Lake City, Utah. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state that you are on the road in advertising work and wish an appointment as general organizer, and desire to know what steps to take to be appointed. In reply I beg to say that before commission can be issued as volunteer general organizer, it will be necessary for you to receive the endorsement of your International Union. I note that you say you are a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, and if you will have them endorse your application and forward same to this office, this matter will be given consideration. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers (signature) President, Americal Federation of Labor.316 January 19, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: A letter has been received at this office from M. Jacovitz, Secretary Suspender Makers Union No. 9560, Office 98 Forsyth St., New York City, which is as follows: "We expect some trouble with a firm under the name of Stein Brothers. The said firm has deducted one cent on every dozen suspenders made without notice, which aggregate to about one dollar every member a week, and also a committee has been sent up and receiv-- ed no recognition of the said firm. We, therefore, beg you to notify Mr. Robinson to advise and assist us in the action which we should take." "Mr. Jacovitz has been advised that the matter was being referred to you, and would request that you take this matter up with him at as early a date as possible. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.317 January 19, 1909. M Mr. C. J. Acton, Third Vice-President, Arkansas State Federation of Labor, Midland, Arkansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant is at hand and contents noted. In accordance with the request and recommendation contained therein, commission as volunteer general organizer will be issued and forwarded to Brother Dave Reed for the State of Arkansas. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.318 January 19, 1909. Mr. M. Jacovitz Secretary, Suspender Makers Local No. 9560, 98 Forsyth St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that your letter has been referred to Mr. Herman Robinson, with the request to assist you in every way possible in your expected trouble with the firm of Stein Brothers. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.319 January 19, 1909. Mr. C. B. McConnell, Organizer, P. O. Box 81, Wichita Falls, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand, in which you state that you would like a position as organizer, and would say that it is impossible at this time to make the appointment of addi- tional organizers, owing to the state of the Federation funds. A note, however, will be made of your request, and if found possible at any time in the near future to comply with your request, we will be glad to do so. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.320 January 19, 1909. M Mr. S. J. Konenkamp, President, Commercial Telegraphers Union, Room 930, Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th instant is at hand, in which you request the appointment of a general organizer to assist in the work of re-organizing the Commercial Telegraphers. In reply I beg to say that after consultation with Secre- tary Morrison I learn that the Federation funds are in such condition at present as to make it impossible to appoint any additional organizers, just at this time. I fully appreciate the situation, and it give me genuine pain to have to write you as above, but if we have not the funds with which to pay the salary and meet the expenses of an organizer for the Commercial Telegraphers, it would be worse than folly to make the ap-- pointment. It might not amiss to say further that a number of national unions and state federations of labor have made similar re-- quests, to all of which we have been compelled to reply as above. It may be later on we will be able to make the appointment, in which event you can rest assured it will be gladly done. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President A. F. of L. 321 M January 19, 1909. Mr. W. J. Gardner, Secretary, Local No. 2566, U. M. W. of A., Alix, Arkansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand, in which you request that an organizer be furnished for the State of Arkansas. In reply I beg to say that Organizer Henry M. Walker is going to visit Fort Smith in the near future, and other towns inthe State, and he has been directed to include Alix in his itinerary, and I trust some good may be accomplished. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samul Grompers President American Federation of Labor.322 M January 19, 1909. Mr. William Yeisley, Secretary, Local Union 302, U. M. W. of A., Hartford, Arkansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th instantis at hand, in which you request that a special organizer be sent to the State of Arkansas. In reply I beg to say that Organizer Henry M. Walker is to visit Fort Smith in the near future, and other towns in the State, and he has been directed to included Hartford in his itinerary. Trusting that some good may be accomplished by Organizer Walker's visit, I am. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.323 M January 19, 1909. Mr. M. W. Hackey, Secretary, Local Union #989, U. M. W. of A., Denning, Arkansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th instant is at hand, in which you request that an organizer be sent to Arkansas, and beg to say that Organizer Henry M. Walker is going to visit Fort Smith in the near future, and he has been directed to visit Denning during his stay there. Trust that some good to the labor movement may be ac-- complished by Organizer Walker's visit, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor324 M January 18, 1909. Mr. Stuart Reid, Organizer, Room 23, Reynolds Arcade, Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of a letter under date of January 15th, from Organizer John J. O'Neill, Bridgeport, Conn., in which he requests that you be directed to attend the Convention of the State Federation of Labor at Hartford January 19-22, and for your information I am en-- closing to you a copy of my reply. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.325 X. Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. Ernest Bohm, Secretary, Central Federated Union, 184 Eldridge St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th inst. received and contents noted. I have also noted the printed copy you enclose of the resolutions adopted by the Central Federated Union and which you desire endorsed by the American Federation of Labor. If you will kindly send me a dozen copies of this printed circular, I will submit the matter to my colleagues of the Executive Council for such action as they may deem advisable to take in the promises. If it is approved you will be notified accordingly. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.326 Z Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. Charles S. Macfarland, 37 Bayview Ave., South Norwalk, Conn. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 24th Inst. has been duly received, in which you ask me to suggest some picture which will be emblematic of organized labor to be hung in your high school building. In reply let me say that I have given this matter careful thought. Union labor has not yet inspired the artists of today to produce any master piece and the works of the old masters depict a different conception of labor from that now prevailing. At first I thought of the sturdy peasant types of Millet but these suggest strength of body solely and an absence of intelligence. On the whole let me suggest that you use a photograph of a piece of sculpture by Charles Henry Niehaus, entitled "The Driller", which to me suggests a perfect body and a trained mind. The face is intelligent with an expression of classic dignity, and the whole composition suggests control, force and intellect, for which I trust it will be universally acknowledged union labor stands. I saw this picture in a book entitled "American Masters of Sculpture, by Charles H. Caffin, published by Doubleday, Page & Co. It is a reproduction from the Drake monument in Titusville, Pa. Let me also suggest that you read an article appearing 327 Mr. Charles S. Macfarlane, ---2--- in the December number of the "Review of Reviews" entitled "George Grey Barnard: A Virile American Sculptor". In it you will find a picture of his statue "The Hewer", also the description of a group entitled "Labor at Rest". Trusting that these suggestions may be of use to you, I am Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. I am also sending you under separate cover a reproduction of a picture entitled Steel Workers which was published in Harpers' Weekly some years ago, and reproduced in our official magazine THE AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. in the November, 1905, issue, copy of which is being sent you under separate cover. 328 X. Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. Israel Levit, United Garment Workers of America, Local #7, 1718 E. Balto. St., Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: I want to thank you for your very cordial invitation to attend the entertainment to be given under the auspices of Garment Workers' Union #7, on Tuesday evening, March 5th. It would afford me pleasure to accept the invitation but in view of present engagements I very much fear it will be impossible for me to do so. You will permit me, however, to express the sincere hope for a pleasant and most enjoyable evening. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.329 Washington, D.C., Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. Emmet T. Flood, 302 West Congress Street, Chicago, Ill. Telegram received. A few days will not make any difference but we must keep our engagements with officers of unions in other cities. FRANK MORRISON. (Chg. A. F. of L.)333 Washington, D.C., Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. C. H. McConaughy, 4106 16th St., San Francisco, Cal. Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver. Refused to discontinue litigation before the courts. Refused to accept the bank designated for the funds. Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement. The Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers, of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collings and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support. SAMUEL GOMPERS, President. FRANK MORRISON, Secretary. American Federation of Labor. (Chg. A. F. of L.)331 Washington, D. C., Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. Peter W. Collins, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver Refused to discontinue litigation before the courts. Refused to accept the bank designated for the funds. Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement. The Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and you as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize you and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support. SAMUEL GOMPERS, President FRANK MORRISON, Secretary, American Federation of Labor. (C[?]g. A. F. of L.) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President. FRANK MORRISON, Secretary, American Federation of Labor. (Chg. A. F. of L.)332 COPY. X. Washington, D.C., Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Second Vice-Pres., American Federation of Labor, 281 4th Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th inst. came duly to hand as well as the enclosed sheets of the interview had by Mr. Gardner with Justice Wright and issued by the Newspaper Enterprise Association. I could not re-publish the interview in the forthcoming issue of the American Federationist, as it was impossible to hold the issue up longer. It would have required an entire new makeup. I have written to the Enterprise Association for copy of the interview, and ask you that I may hold your copy until I hear from them. If they send me one I will return yours at once, otherwise, I shall have it typewritten and then send you yours. In regard to your suggestion to re-write the "scene in Court", I have not the time and I have not the ability to write another which would be more accurate. For the life of me I cannot see in what particular you regard that sketch as overdrawn. You were present. You heard what was said, and undoubtedly noted the manner in which it was said. The newspaper correspondents who reported to their offices gave a much more vivid account and dwelt upon Judge Wright's manner of delivery, and editorial writers in the daily press and magazines have characterized the language and the manner in which we were condemned in language from which mine falls far short. You know the efforts which we made to have the day for the delivery of the decision changed and the obdurate and abrupt manner in which it was refused. The interview with Judge Wright, of which you sent me copy, the language and the manner of 333 Mr. John Mitchell --2-- the Judge, I think justifies the simple portrayal of the scene in court which I have written. It is true that men may witness a given occurrence and give a different account of it, and that may apply to you and me. I have written the incident as it appeared to me. My chief regret in the matter is that though we may differ as to our conceptions of what was really the scene in court, that you should regard my account of it as overdrawn, and that you did not so state when we went so carefully over it Saturday afternoon and evening. Of course, inasmuch as you object to it, and I cannot write another, and there is no time to have you write an account of it for the forthcoming issue of the American Federationist, I have assumed entire responsibility for that portion of our joint review of the decision. The quotation from Thomas Jefferson in the review is the one which has been used thousands of times and made to apply to every instance where judges or courts have exceeded their authority or jurisdiction, have undertaken to invade personal rights and civil liberty, or to assume the functions of the other co-ordinate branches of the Federal Government. A quotation from an author or writer is accurate and applicable so long as it is in accord with the fundamental idea which the author expressed. In his first inaugural address, March 4th, 1801, President Jefferson said: "Error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it." In another part of that same address, President Jefferson said: "Equal and exact justice to all men, of whatever state or persuasion, religious or political; peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations,--entangling alliances with nine; the support of the State governments in all their rights, as the most competent administrations for our domestic concerns, and the surest bulwarks against anti-repiblican tendencies; the preservation of the general government in its whole constitutional vigour, as the sheet anchor of our peace at home and safety abroad; . . freedom of religion, freedom of the press, freedom of person under the protection of the habeas corpus; and trial by juries impartially selected, these principles form the bright constellation which has 334 John Mitchell --3-- gone before us, and guided our steps through an age of revolution and reformation." I am sure after you have read these you will conclude that when I quote Jefferson as saying-- "It has long been my opinion, and I have never shrunk from its expression, that the germ of dissolution of our federal government is in the judiciary, an irresponsible body working like gravity, by day and night, gaining a little today and gaining a little tomorrow, and advancing its noiseless step like a thief over the field of jurisdiction until all shall be usurped." that we are in exact accord with his every understanding and declaration of self-evident truths, and that it will lie in the mouth of no one to charge us with "juggling" the meaning of his words. I asked Secretary Morrison's view of the matter, and he coincided with me that the quotation should stand. This was before I looked up the other quotations from Jefferson which I have incorporated in this letter. I suppose, therefore, that we shall all have to stand by the matter. It is my purpose to agree with you in all matters and I usually do; but I cannot agree with you in this. I feel satisfied after thinking the matter over, particularly in view of the further quotations from Jefferson, that your judgment will be somewhat modified. Taken as a whole, I think that we shall all of us have cause for pride or at least satisfaction in the statements we make. With kindest regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor.335 [Mr. John Mitchell --4--] [With kindest regards, and best wishes, I am,] [Fraternally yours, ] [Saml. Gompers.] [President] [American Federation of Labor.]336 X. Jan. 21, 1909. rine Engineers Beneficial Asso., New Willard Hotel, Washington, D.C. Gentlemen: I am in receipt of your kind invitation to attend the [??]ker to be given Thursday evening, Jan. 21st, at the above hotel, beg to say that nothing unforeseen occurring, I shall avail elf of your courteous invitation and be present. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 337 X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. F.W. Cotterill, President, Washington State Federation of Labor, 318 5th Ave. N., Seattle, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th inst. to hand and contents noted. I also received the enclosed paper prepared by Mr. C. A. Reynolds which I read with a great deal of interest and satisfaction and ask you to convey my gratification and appreciation to him. Yesterday the forms for the February issue of the American Federationist were closed, and that issue is now running through on the press. If your letter had come to my attention a little earlier I would have been able to utilize the article for this coming issue, but will use it in a later number. As per your suggestion I have issued a commission to Bro. Fred Hudson, as Vice President elect of the Washington State Federation of Labor for the State. Am sending it to Bellingham, Wash. The whole tone of your letter is indeed gratifying and with all my heart I wish you success and ask you to impress upon all our fellow workers wherever you may go, the necessity of standing more firmly together than ever before, to devote ourselves unflinchingly and unreservedly to the great cause of labor, which is indeed the essence of the cause of justice and human freedom.338 Mr. F. W. Cotterill ––2–– With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.339 X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. Edw. Carralin, Ass't. Supt., McGregor Mission, Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 16th inst., I beg to say that the McGregor Mission will be placed upon our mailing list so that hereafter you will receive the American Federationist regularly. I am sending you under separate cover copy of the last issue and also copy of some of the literature published by this office. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*340*] X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. B. A. Larger, Secretary, United Garment Workers of America, 116 Bible House, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Some time ago we received through your union an advertisement put out by the Carhart Clothing Co., being a large colored picture representing a blacksmith, with a leathern apron and square cap, standing at his forge with hammer in hand. The picture was very intelligent and lifelike in appearance, and I am anxious to obtain another copy. Could you secure one and send to us? With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*341*] X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. John G. Meiler, Secretary, Amalgamated Wood Workers Int'l. Union of America, 407-10 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from you in response to a request for information from this office, you say that there were 200 Wood Workers out of employment during the past year. Now, I do not refer to any one city or town, but to your entire union for such information as you may have upon the subject. In answer to my question as to the number of days worked in every year, you say 300 days or more are worked each year. Is this absolutely accurate? There are 365 days in each year, of which there are 52 Sundays, New Year's Day, Lincoln's Birthday, Feb. 12th, Washington's Birthday, Feb. 22nd, Decoration Day in May, Independence Day, July 4th, Labor Day, first Monday in Sept., Election Day in November, Thanksgiving Day, last Thursday in Nov., Christmas Day, Dec. 25th, apart from local holidays. I would like to have your reply to this matter so that I can make an accurate resume of the answer received. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*342*] X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. Jas. O'Connell, Third Vice Pres., American Federation of Labor, McGill Bldg., City. Dear Sir and Brother: I have just received a letter from our friend R. T. Shea, in which he calls attention to the meeting and dinner which we discussed with him, which has been arranged for six o'clock Saturday evening January 30th. Hope that you will arrange to be there. I am to be in New York the evening of January 28th to deliver an address and then to participate in a number of conferences, as well as acting as one of the Arbitrators of the Traiser Tobacco Strippers' Dispute. Let me hear from you as soon as you possibly can. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*343*] X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. Theodore Schroeder, R. F. D. 28, Box 151, Cos Cob, Conn. Dear Mr. Schroeder: Your card came duly to hand and I was very glad to hear from you, and thank you very much for the assistance and suggestion. The names and addresses of our attorneys are Hon. Alton B. Parker, #3 So. William St., New York City, and Messrs. Ralston and Siddons, Bond Bldg., Washington D. C. I have placed your name on our mailing list and shall send you copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, which I think you will find interesting. I also send you a copy of the report which I had the honor to make to the Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor. Hope to hear from you at your convenience. With best wishes, I am, Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.344 X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. C. W. A. Veditz, Secretary and Treasurer, The American Sociological Society, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 19th inst. to hand and contents noted. However, I do not recall at this time the matter of which you speak. I will be glad to do what I can in the matter if you will give me some further information. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*345*] X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. J. C. Shanessy, Secretary, Local #102, Journeymen Barbers' Int'l. Union, Burlington Bldg., 810 Olive St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th inst. received and contents noted, and under separate cover the new pamphlets issued by the American Anti-Boycott Association and also the correspondence with the Aug. Kern Barber Supply Co. for all of which please accept my thanks. I may call upon you again for further data and in the meantime if there is anything of a similar nature which comes to your attention, I would appreciate it if you would forward it to me. The report you make of the splendid success of the meeting to form a label section of the Central Body is very gratifying and it together with every effort made to solidify the ranks of labor give the assurance that the work we are doing for common humanity is bringing its results and reward. You will, of course, understand how much I appreciate your expressions and the expressions of all of our friends and fellow workers in regard to this terrible wrong done not only my colleagues and myself but all labor, all our people. I cannot fittingly express my sense of appreciation and obligation. We must stand together in sentiment, in purpose and principle, devotedly, unflinchingly fighting for the right. I would not only suggest to you read-346 Mr. J. C. Shanessy --2-- ing the matter which will appear in the February issue of the American Federationist, but to make some effort in having our other fellow workers and friends read it. With kindest regards, and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*347*] X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. Marlin Pew, Newspaper Enterprise Association, Press Bldg., Cleveland, O. Dear Sir: Mr. John Mitchell sent me the copy of the interview Mr. Gilsen Gardner had with Justice Wright. Mr. Mitchell requested me to return it to him. I have not seen the interview published in any newspaper and it is not difficult to infer that it was suppressed for obvious reasons. I would like very much if you will send me a few copies of the interview. I regret that I did not get it by Monday for I should then have been able to publish it in the February issue of the American Federationist. Will you give me permission to publish it in some future issue of our magazine? Thanking you in advance, and expressing my appreciation for the lucid manner with which the matter has been brought out in the interview, I am, Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*348*] Jan. 21, 1909. M. Mr. Z. O. King, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 12563, Central City, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Relative to your letter of December 30, in which you make complaint against J. W. Doss retaining his commission as volunteer organizer, I beg to advise that I am in receipt of a letter from William Doss, Secretary Central Trades Council, and for your information enclose copy of same herein. You understand that whenever possible the appointment of volunteer organizers is made upon the recommendation of affiliated central bodies, thus making these organizations responsible for much appointments and insuring a greater degree of co-operation and unity in the work. As Brother Doss was recommended by the Central Trades Council of Central City, it will be necessary to receive an official notification from that Body before he can be discontinued. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, A. F. of L. P. S. You will not what Brother Doss says in regard to your being a professional man and business man, and would like to hear from you in reference to same. [*349*] COPY. Central City, Ky, January 15, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, A. F. of L. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Yours of the 6th of this month in regard to Z. O. King's letter concerning J. W. Doss, will say that said Doss is the man who worked up and helped Brother J. D. Wood to organize the Carpenters and Federation of Labor, the brick masons, the Central Trade Council, and is still working hard to organize other unions of different trades, and all I ask of you is to send some one of your Executive Board down here to go with Brother Doss to the carpenters and brick masons, bar tenders and Central Trades Council, and he will show you that Z. O. King is a business man and a professional man, and if that don't satisfy you I will ask you to send it to the carpenters of this place. Brother J. W. Doss is getting several unions under headway at present and is going to organize them if nothing happens. Fraternally yours, Wm. Doss Secretary, Central Trades Council. [*350*] January 20, 1909 LF Mr. George F. Pfeiffer, Secretary, National Federation of Post Office Clerks 377 Albion St. Milwaukee, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the State Legislature, and then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other International unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 351 LF January 20, 1909 Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the State Legislature, and he then requests you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 352 LF January 20, 1909 Mr. James W. Dougherty, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Bookbinders Room 210, 132 Nassau St., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the State Legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.LF January 20,1909 Mr. W. J. Gilthorpe, Secretary, Brotherhood of Boiler Makers and Iron Ship Builders of America, Room 314, Portsmouth Building, Kansas City, Kans. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the State Legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 354 LF January 20, 1909 Mr. Charles N. Clover, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Suite 570 Monon Building, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the State Legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other International unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.355 LF January 20, 1909 Mr. Jacob Fischer, Secretary, Journeymen Barbers' International Union, Security Trust Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of labor called me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the State Legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can't in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 356 LF January 21,1909. Hon. W. R. Smith, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In compliance with your request of the 20th instant, I beg to enclose to you herein a copy of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure: January 21, 1909 Mr. H. A. Talcherkar, Fergusson road, Bombay, India. Dear Sir: Mr. Shridhar V. Ketkar of Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, writes me that you have requested to have sent to you leaflets and bulletins published by the American Federation of Labor, which will give you information as to the aims, objects and work of the organizations of labor in this country. It is with pleasure that I comply with this request by sending you under separate cover package of some of the literature published by this office. This package will include, among other things, a copy of the Constitution of our Federation , copy of the lists of affiliated organizations and of the official trade journals and labor press. The most helpful matter which you could study would be the official printed proceedings of the annual conventions of the Federation, as well as the complete file of the official magazine, the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, of which I am editor. I am sending you under separate cover, copy of the January issue. Of course, however, you have no opportunity in India of consulting these matters, though if you were a student at Cornell, as I presume you were, you had the opportunity of consulting these publications while you were there. I would appreciate it if you would write to me from time to time, giving me any information you can as to the conditions pre- vailing among the labor class in India. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor. 358 LF January 21,1909 Mr. Shridhar V. Ketkar, Graduate Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 20th instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with your request, it affords me pleasure to send to Mr. H. A. Talcherkar of Bombay, India, some of the pamphlets and other printed matter published by this office. Very truly yours, SamlGompers President American Federation of Labor.359 LF January 21,1909 Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary, San Francisco labor Council, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant is received and contents noted. In regard to the Electrical Workers, I beg to say that this was one of the matters acted upon by the Executive Council at its meeting in this city last week, and the representatives of both sides claiming to represent the International Brotherhood of Electri- cal Workers, were officially advised as to the decision of the Execu- tive Council which was the recognition of the side represented by Mr. F. J. McNulty. Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated their part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts and refused to accept the bank designated for the fund. Mr.McNulty and his associates compiled with their pro- vision in their agreement. The Executive Council, in the interests of the Electrical Workers, of the Brotherhood and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr.McNulty and Mr.Collins as Presi- dent and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and all local unions of Electrical Workers, as well as all organized labor of America are appealed to give that same recognition and support. 360 Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher--2 With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. January 21, 1909 LF Mr. T. A. Ellis, Member, United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners Local #184, 428 D. F. Walker Bldg., Salt Lake City, Utah, Dear Sir: Your favor of the 15th instant, received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that my time is so fully en- grossed with the many and pressing duties of my position as President of the American Federation of Labor, that I have not the time, even though I had the inclination, which I have not, to embark upon any commercial enterprise whatever, no matter how excellent the pro- position may be. However, in so far as the general matter is con- cerned, it will be referred to the Executive Council at its next meeting. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 362 January 21, 1909 LF Mr. J. M. Touey,, Central Real Estate Exchange 1333 F Street, Northwest, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 20th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that thus far the matter of the site for the new building has not been definitely considered owing to the lack of necessary time to devote to such an important subject. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 363 LF January 21, 1909 Mr. Joseph B. Burtt, 1607 Ashland Block, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 16th instant is received and contents noted. I thank you for your offer to send me on approval copy of your new book entitled: "Education and National Character". I am so overwhelmed with pressing and important matters, that I could not promise at this time to read the book at any time in the near future and therefore it will perhaps be well not to send it to me. I have directed that your publication "Fraternal Education" be placed upon our exchange list, and under separate cover I am sending you copy of the January issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor. 364 LF January 21, 1909 Mr. A. W. Garren, Manager, Journal Publishing Company, 18 West 18th St., Erie,, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 19th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that there was submitted to the Executive Council, at its meeting in this city last week, a proposition for the publication of a weekly paper, as indicated in the press report given out. The matter was given considera-- tion by the Executive Council, But as you are doubtless aware, the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is the official publication of the American Federation of Laor. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.365 LP January 21, 1909 The Buffalo Republic 542 Ellicott Square Buffalo. N. Y. Gentlemen: Your favor of the 14th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that there was submitted to the Executive Council at its meeting in this city last week, a proposition for the publication of a weekly paper, as indicated in the press report given out, copy of which was sent to you. The matter was given consideration by the Executive Council, but as you are doubtless aware, the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is the offi- cial publication of the American Federation of Labor. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.[*366*] X Jan. 20, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 3d. Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 19th inst. received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am today returning to you the brief which you submitted in connection with the other papers bearing on the Pouren case which the Executive Council took up with the President last week. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. as you know, he shall in N.Y. to deliver the Lecture Jan. 28. and will likely be at the C. F. U. on Sunday 31st SG367 M January 21, 1909. Mr. Herbert N. Casson, 274 West 140th St., New York City. My dear Mr. Casson: Your favor of the 18th instant is at hand and contents noted. I am free to say to you that the entire matter appeals to me very strongly, and I hope to have the opportunity of seeing you sometime in the near future when we can talk it over. Write me again when you get the chance or when you will come over here, so that we can arrange for an interview. With kind regards, I am, Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.368 M January 31, 1908. Mr. E. Lewis Evans, Secretary, Tobacco Workers' International Union, Room 56, Amer. Nat. Bank Bldg., Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Kindly advise me as to the standing of the United States Tobacco Company of Richmond, Va., with your organization, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.369 M January 21, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 18th instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request, I am sending you under separate cover photographs of President Gompers and Secretary Morrison. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*370*] M January 21, 1909. Mr. Max Levine, 29 Osborne St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 16th instant is at hand, in which you state you are to participate in a debate on "Open vs. Closed Shop," and are to uphold the closed shop side, and wish to be furnished with information, statistics, etc., on this question. In reply would say, that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the San Francisco and Pittsburg Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlets of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases," by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop," published by Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N. Y.371 M. L. 2. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Should there be any published report made of your debate, I will appreciate it, if you will kindly see that copy is sent to me. Very Truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.372 M. January 21, 1909. Mr. William N. Gerber, 901-905 Onondaga County Savings Bank Bldg., Syracuse, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 15th instant is at hand, in which you state you are to debate on the following question: "Resolved, that the open shop shop promotes the interests of the working man better than the closed shop." You do not state on which side you will debate, but judging from the form of the question you will support the non-union shop, and, therefore, it is scarcely to be expected that I should furnish you with information to be used in debating against one of the cardinal principles of the organized labor movement. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*373*] M January 21, 1909. Mr. Karl R. Edmunds, Upper Iowa University, Fayette, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand, in which you request me to send you literature of the subject of the "Closed Shop and its moral and legal justification under present industrial conditions." In reply I beg to say that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the San Francisco and Pittsburg Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlets of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled, "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases" by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N. Y.[*374*] K. R. E. 2. Inasmuch as the subject is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.375 M January 21, 1909. Mr. A. J. Nys, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 1307 Tower Ave., Superior, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been brought to my attention, in which you state that the Trades and Labor Assembly recommends the appointment of Walter Knowlton as volunteer organizer for Superior and vicinity, to succeed J. J. Macoskey. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Knowlton in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.376 M January 21, 1909. Mr. M. B. Eastwold, Le Roy, Minn. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 13th instant is at hand, in which you state that are to debate on the following question "Resolved, That labor organizations have shown for the last twenty years a tendency to be detrimental to the best interests of the U. S." and you desire some material on this question. In reply I beg to say to begin with the form of the resolution is not in accord with the facts in the case, for as has been evidenced by results the organization of the workers into unions of their respective trades has not only been greatly beneficial to the workers themselves, but have resulted to the benefit of the community at large. The proposition, therefore, should not be a negative one but an affirmative one, - That Labor Unions are not detrimental to the best interests of the U. S. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.377 M January 21, 1909. Mr. R. A. McCulloch, Organizer, 300 South Main St., Ennis, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant is at hand, in which you state that the Ennis Trade Assembly is defunct, and desire to know what is to be done with the charter. In reply I beg to say that if there is no possibility of reviving the Trades Assembly, I would kindly ask that you return the charter to this office. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.378 M January 21, 1909. Mr. J. D. Coon, Sioux Falls, S. D. Dear Sir: Your card of the 16th instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request, I am forwarding you under separate cover sample copies of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.379 M January 21, 1909 Mr. Jesse L Day, Secretary, Central Trades Council, Admore, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state that the Trades Council recommends the appointment of D. N. Ferguson as volunteer organizer for Ardmore and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Ferguson in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*380*] M January 21, 1909. Mr. John F. McNamee, Editor and Manager, Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen's Magazine, 806-607 Traction Terminal Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover copy of the December 1907 AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.381 M January 21, 1909. Mr. E. W. Coberly, Secretary B. T. C., 44-25 Tenth Ave., Birmingham, Ala. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand, in which you request the services of an organizer. In reply I beg to say that Mr. Leonard is the only organizer we have in that section, and owing to the state of the Federation funds, it is not possible at this time to make the appointment of additional organizers. However, a note will be made of your request, and if found possible in the near future to send an organizer to Birmingham, we will be glad to do so. Regretting my inability to comply with your request, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.382 AH Jan. 20, 1909. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that J. J. Williams is duly authorized to install the officers and initiate the members of Federal Labor Union #12749 of Ladus Island, South Carolina. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*383*] Z Jan. 21, 1909 Mr. C. L. Baine, Secretary, Boot and Shoe Workers' Union, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th Inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to advise that I am submitting copies of your letter to the members of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor and will advise you just as soon as the matter has been acted upon by the Executive Council. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.384 z Jan. 21, 1909 No. 3. Executive Council, American Federation of Labor. Colleagues: Enclosed you will please find a copy of a letter which I have just received from the General Executive Board of the Boot and Shoe Workers' Union, per L. C. Baine, Secretary. The entire letter is commended to your consideration. The question for consideration by the Executive Council is: Shall the statement be made as requested in the last paragraph of Mr. Baine's letter? Please return your vote upon this proposition at your earliest convenience, and oblige Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.385 Copy Boot and Shoe Workers Union 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, Executive Council, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- On Saturday, 16th Inst., our General Executive Board while in session ordered me to send you the following telegram:- Jan. 16, 1909 Samuel Gompers, 425 G. Street, N. W. , Washington, D. C. Our board desires the Executive Council to give us a sufficient remedy for the injury done our cause through the misuse by the Douglas Company of the Duncan letter. Such remedy will have a beneficial influence in the direction of a settlement with the Douglas Company. C. L. Blaine. This morning we received your reply by wire as follows: Washington, D. C., Jan. 16, 1909 C. L. Blaine, 246 Summer St., Boston. Telegram received just before adjournment. Executive Council insists matter to which you refer is one between your Executive Board and the Douglas Shoe Company and not between your Board and the Executive Council. The Executive Council directs me to urge upon you the necessity of endeavoring by every honorable means to reach an adjustment of the controversy. Samuel Gompers." Your reply was immediately taken up by our Board and this letter was authorized to be forwarded to you for the consideration of the Executive Council having in mind the report of our Committee, who appeared before your Council in Washington on the 14th and 15th Insts., wherein they sought a conference upon a matter which our Board considered was solely between your Council and our Board but yielding to the views of your Council in which it was especially emphasized that we could not deny represents386 --2-- tion to the Douglas Company in the discussion which was bound to involve their interests. Our committee recognized and yielded to the force of this argument which we recognize as sound. Now, therefore, inasmuch as our prayer to your Council of the 16th inst. was that we should have a sufficient remedy for the injury done to our cause through the misuse by the Douglas Co. of the so-called Duncan letter, we believe your refusal to at the least assist us in securing this remedy is not giving us that graternal assistance to which we believe we are entitled. We justify this view from the fact that the letter had its origin through a conference a representative of the Douglas Company had with your Council at its meeting in Washington in September, 1909. You will remember that in our conference with your Council on the 15th inst., Mr. Skeffington, representing the Douglas Co., stated that during the September meeting of the Council he had buttonholed the individual members thereof and had also attended a meeting of the Council urging it to take some action to end the Douglas controversy. As you know, we did not participate in this conference and had no notice of it. You will also recognize what is admitted to be a fact, that this same representative of the Douglas Company appeared at the meeting of the Executive Council in Denver, Col., on the Sunday following the adjournment of the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor, at which meeting of the Council, the so-called Duncan letter was framed and ordered to be sent to this office and a copy of the same furnished to the Douglas Co., that in this second conference of the Douglas representative with your Council we were not given an opportunity to be heard and as the Douglas Co. had used the letter referred to for advertising pur-387 -5- poses and have grossly misrepresented the contents of the letter in said advertising, all of which has worked great injury to our organization and to the cause of labor in general, which we deem especially unfortunate at this time when the ranks of labor should be closing up instead of dividing, we, therefore, again appeal to your Council to take this subject under serious consideration and if you will do nothing more urge the Douglas Co. to retract their misuse of the letter which they admit having inadvertently caused to be published in the Boston Post with misleading and untruthful headlines, which course we believe your Council can cause the Douglas Co. to follow without any sacrifice of dignity upon your part and as a simple act of justice to our Union which has been so grossly misrepresented, not by the inadvertent publication of misleading statements in connection with the Duncan letter but in the reproduction of the same ad in several other publications. We urge your Council to this course, first, because we have already been put to enormous expense to counteract the influence of the misuse of this letter, which expense we have no desire to continue but which we will be obliged to assume to the extent of reaching every portion of the labor movement on this continent for the purpose of explaining our position the motives which have actuated us and the fact that we have suffered a substantial reduction in wages by an old trick in a new form which we must resist with all the fair and proper resources at our command. If, in your wisdom, you do not see fit to give us the relief which we urge upon you, we desire you to accept this as a notice of appeal to the next convention of the American Federation of Labor. We beg to assure you that we shall very much regret to be obliged to take this course for many reasons, chief of which is we do not desire that the enemies of organized labor shall take388 -----4----- any comfort from what appears to be a division in the labor move-- ment, even of the smallest proportions. We believe that a simple statement by your Council to the effect that the letter of Vice-President Duncan was in no sense a decision of the Executive Council in favor of the Douglas Co. and against our Union and that the misleading headlines published by the Douglas Co. in connection with the Duncan letter were not authorized by your Council and are not approved by you, and that the using of the stationery of the American Federation of Labor by the Douglas Co. in connection with the letter of Vice-President Duncan was not authorized by your Council, would have a decidely beneficial tendency in the direction of a settlement and in the absence of such relief, we very much fear that the contest will be prolonged because we believe there is no other honorable course open to us. Fraternally yours, General Executive Board, Boot and She Workers' Unin, By (Signed) C. L. Baine, Secretary.389 Washington, D. C., Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. Thos. L. Lewis, Convention United Mine Workers of America, Indianapolis, Ind. Kindly convey to the delegates to your convention fraternal greet-- ings and best wishes for a most successful convention. Now is the time that tries men's souls. Now is the time to more thoroughly organize and solidify the ranks of labor. Stand true for the cause of justice and human freedom. SAMUEL GOMPERS, Charge A. F. of L. Washington, D. C., Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. P. J. Flannery, Grand Union Hotel, New York City. Executive Council deferred action until next meeting. Won't you kindly extend to delegates fraternal greetings and best wishes for successful convention. Now is the time that tries men's souls. Now more than ever is it essential to organize and press forward for justice and human freedom. SAMUEL GOMPERS Charge A. F. of L.390 X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. H. A. Stenburgh, General Secretary-Treasured, Int'l Hod Carriers Building Laborers Union of America, Realty Bldg., 410-12 E. Market St., Elmira, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: At the meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor held here during the week of January 11-16, inclusive, Mr. James Kirby and W. J. Spencer, President and Secretary, respectively, of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L., had conferences with the Executive Council, and brought to our attention the resolution adopted by the Building Trades Department at its convention held in Denver, November, 1908. The action of the convention consists in the adoption of a report of a committee of which the following is a copy: "We, your Adjustment Committee, beg leave to report the following, in the case of protest filed with this Convention against the meeting of H. A. Stenburgh, D. D'Allesandro and Jerry Cooper, as representatives of the Hod Carriers' and Laborers" international Union. That they be seated with the voice and full votes and that we deplore the unbusinesslike methods employed in the management of the affairs of that Organization, and believe it is impossible to maintain an international organization where such loose business methods of management are practiced, and as a remedy for the existing evil, we strongly advise that all local unions and factions of the organization, and all independent local unions of Hod Carriers' and Laborers' International Union should be brought together through the usual methods into an amalgamated or reorganized union, and, as a means to this end, this Department memoralize the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to instruct the general and Local Organizers of the American Federation of Labor to give prompt attention to the organizing of all Hod Carriers and Laborers now unorganized and affiliate then with the Hod Carriers' and Laborers' International Union, and we further recommend that a Convention,391 Mr. H. A. Stemburgh ---2--- regular or special, be held, preferably within six months, for thorough amalgamation or reorganization of that body, and that the President of the Building Trades Department shall be in attendance at said Convention to give such advice and assistance as the circumstances and his experience in the labor movement may suggest. That when reorganization or amalgamation has been accomplished the American Federation of Labor be asked to place an organizer in the vicinity of the headquarters, who shall, from time to time, give the officers of this organization the necessary advice, which knowledge and experience can give of the administration of the general affairs of a successful labor organization, as well as the practical and necessary detail work of a general office of labor organization, and that in order to make the Convention referred to a success, the suspended and seceding locals of the organzation be given representation therein, in accordance with the laws of the Hod Carriers' and Laborers' Int'l. Union, and that the suspended and seceding locals commence payment of per capita tax to the International headquarters in accordance with the Constitution of the organization, beginning with and for the month of January, 1909. And that this Building Trades Department guarantees all interested parties that no advantage will be given or taken by one faction over another. That the President of this Department shall send to all Hod Carriers' and Laborers' Unions an official circular letter, urging them to adhere to the above recommendations." After mature consideration the Executive Council decided that the undersigned use every effort to bring this subject matter to your attention and to urge that its recommendations and provisions be carried out. Now more than ever it is necessary for the men of labor not only to organize but those who are organized to endeavor to build up and make our organizations more effective than ever before. Circumstances and obstacles all make it more impressive upon the thinking workers that we must be more alert, active, and insistent than ever before. I should be pleased to have you communicate with me in regard to the several points herein covered, and particularly in regard to the improved methods within the organization, a more cohesive, practical policy, and also for the arrangements for a convention as recommended in the report quoted above. Kindly advise me on this at your earliest possible convenience.392 Mr. H. A. Stemburgh ––3–– With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.393 Jan. 21. 1909 X. Messers. Ralston, & Siddons, Bond Building, City. Gentlemen: You will recall that at the meeting of the Executive Council last week, Mr. James Duncan, Vice-President, called your attention to the fact that I was instructed and elected to attend a number of labor conferences in Europe and to visit several countries on the European continent to make an investigation of industrial and social conditions there. In view of the fact that Justice Wright has held me, with my colleagues, guilty of contempt and imposed a sentence, and than an appeal is to be made, and pending a decision I am out of bail bond, he desired to know whether I can make the trip with safety, and if so, whether the bail bond will thereby be forfeited. Both you gentlemen stated that I could with perfect confidence proceed to make the arrangements for my absence from the country from about June 15th or later in that month until early in October. With this view Judge Parker agreed as being the general practice, but was not absolutely sure of the rule or practice in the District of Columbia. What I would like to have from you is a letter confirming your oral statement. Kindly give this matter your early attention so that I may at once make arrangements with my correspondents in394 Messrs. Ralston & Siddons --2-- several different European countries Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 395 X. Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Second Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 281 4th Ave., New York City. Re - Trainer Company. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th inst. with enclosed letter from Mr. E. A. Filene to you came duty to hand. I shall interpose no objection to a brief delay of the meeting of the board of arbitra-- tors in re the above matter. The case should not be deferred too long. I had made arrangements so as to be able to meet with you and Mr. Filene in New York at the time suggested, which, of course, is now askew. However, I am making another engagement for that date. In view of my other engagement and work, I apprehend it may be a little more difficult to arrange for a date for our meeting. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.396 Jan. 21. 1909 X. Personal Mr. John Mitchell, Recent Vice-Pres., American Federation of Labor, 281 4th Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Re Traiser and Company. Your favor of the 20th inst. with the letter of Mr. E. A. Filene enclosed came duly to hand. Of course, I shall interpose no objection to a postponement of the meeting of the Board of Arbitration, but if Mr. Filene were fully acquainted with the laws and practice of the Cigar Makers' Int'l. Union he would not make the suggestion he does to delay the proceedings of the arbitration of the Traiser-Strippers matter upon the ground that the Traiser company had submitted to Mr. Perkins, President of the Cigar Makers' Int'l. Union, the question of a reduction of wages of the Cigar Makers in Boston. The President, The Executive Board, the entire membership of the International Union has met the right, under the laws of that organization, to initiate a movement affecting a matter of wages under the jurisdiction of any one particular local union. It is solely within the power of the members of the local union to take the initiative, the offers and membership just enumerated having the power to approve or veto. So, therefore, no matter how Mr. Perkins may feel upon the subject under discussion, it is not within his power to take action in the premises.397 Mr. John Mitchell --2-- I am writing this for your personal information. Mr. Filene does not understand these matters, and I do not think that I would care to undertake to advise him upon it, particularly pending this matter. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.398 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. A. Von Elm, Hamburg VI Shaeferstrasse 19 1, Hamburg, Germany. Dear Friend: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Inasmuch as I have seen foreign newspapers containing an account, and have heard from a number of our fellow unionists in regard to it, I did rather expect some sort of letter from you in regard to it. However, as I say, I presume that you are aware of it. Under separate cover I am mailing you copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial on the above subject. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purprose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all likelihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to Germany and other parts of Europe. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Have just [?] to Mr. Legien and Mr. Fehlinger.399 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. C. Legien, Berlin S. O. 16, Engel Ufer 15, Berlin, Germany. Dear Sir and Friend: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Inasmuch as I have seen foreign newspapers containing an account, and have heard from a number of our fellow unionists in regard to it, I did rather expect some sort of a letter from you in regard to it. However, as I say, I presume that you are aware of it. Under separate cover I am mailing you copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial on the above subject. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangement to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all likelihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to England and other parts of Europe. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Have just written to Mr Fehlinger400 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. Ben Cooper, County Council, c/o W. C. Steadman, 42 Effingham House, Arundel St., Strand, London, England. Dear Sir and Brother: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Inasmuch as I have seen English newspapers containing an account, and have heard from a number of our fellow unionists in regard to it, I did rather expect some sort of a letter from you in regard to it. However, as I say, I presume that you are aware of it. Under separate cover I am mailing you copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial on the above subject. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all likelihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to England and other parts of Europe. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGomper[?] President, American Federation of Labor.401 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. John Hodge, Delegate, St. Ormond St., London, W. C., England. Dear Sir and Brother: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Inasmuch as I have seen English newspapers containing an account, and have heard from a number of our fellow unionists in regard to it, I presume that you are aware of it. Under separate cover I am mailing you a copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial on the above subject. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all liklihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to England and other parts of Europe. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am. Fraternally yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor.402 X. Jan. 22, 1909. David J. Shackleton, M. P., Weavers' Winders' and Warpers' Association, 51 London Terrace, Darwen, England. Dear Sir and Brother: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Inasmuch as I have seen English newspapers containing an account, and have heard from a number of our fellow unionists in regard to it, I presume that you are aware of it. Under separate cover I am mailing you copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial on the above subject. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all likelihood the decision and sentence of this court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to England and other parts of Europe. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.403 X. Jan. 22, 1090. Mr. Ben Tillett, Secretary, Dock, Wharf, Riverside and General Workers Union, 425 Mile End Road, London, England. Dear Sir and Brother: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Inasmuch as I have seen English newspapers containing an account, and have heard from a number of our fellow unionists in regard to it, I did rather expect some sort of letter from you in regard to it. However, as I say, I presume you are aware of it. Under separate cover I am mailing you a copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial on the above subject. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all likelihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to England and other parts of Europe. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlG[?] President, American Federation of Labor.404 X. Jan. 22, 1909 Mr. Herbert Skinner, Caxton Hall, Chapel St., Salford, Manchester, England. Dear Sir and Brother: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Under separate cover I am mailing you copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial in regard to the above matter. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from the country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all likelihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to England and other parts of Europe. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor. Best wishes also from Mrs. & Miss Gompers.405 X. Jan. 22, 1909. John Wadsworth, M. P., Miners' Federation of Great Britain, Miners' Office, Barnsley, England. Dear Sir and Brother: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Under separate cover I am mailing you a copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial in regard to the above matter. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all liklihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to England and other parts of Europe. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor. Remember me to Mrs. Wadsworth [?] Mrs. & Miss Gompers [?] [?] SG406 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. W. C. Steadman, Secretary, British Trades Union Congress, Parliamentary Committee, 42 Effingham House, Arundel St., Strand, London, England. Dear Sir and Brother: You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Inasmuch as I have seen English newspaper containing an account, and have heard from a number of our fellow unionists in regard to it, I did rather expect some sort of a letter from you in regard to it. However, as I say, I presume that you are aware of it. Under separate cover I am mailing you copy of the February issue of the American Federationist, containing an editorial on the above subject. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early in October, so that in all likelihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to England and other parts of Europe.407 Mr. W. C. Steadman ---2--- With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.408 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. Geo. D. Horning, Cor. 9th and D Sts., N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Enclosed you will find receipt for $100. which you so kindly contributed to the legal defense of my colleagues and myself in the proceedings against us in the courts. Permit me to expres s to you my sincere appreciation and thanks for your contribution. The cause for which we are contending is not that alone for labor, but for the freedom of all our people. With kindest regards and best wishes, and again thanking you for your contribution, I am, Very truly yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor.409 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. Hans Fehlinger, Lachner St., 4a, Munich, Germany. Dear Sir and Brother: Your two favors came duly to hand and contents noted. You are doubtless aware of the court proceedings against John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and myself, Vice-President, Secretary, and President of the American Federation of Labor, respectively. Inasmuch as I have seen English newspapers containing an account, and have heard from a number of our fellow unionists in regard to it, I take it that there has been some publication of these court transactions in the German press. I did rather expect some sort of a letter from you in regard to it. However, as I say, I presume that you are aware of it. Under separate cover I am mailing you the advance sheets of a matter which I am giving to the newspapers, being the editorial of the February issue of the American Federationist. I commend it to your serious consideration and think you will find it interesting reading. The particular purpose of my writing is to say that we are taking an appeal and my counsel advises me that it is their opinion that I can with perfect confidence make arrangements to be absent from this country from about the middle of June until early410 Mr. Hans Fehlinger ---2--- in October, so that in all likelihood the decision and sentence of the court will not interfere with my arrangements to make the trip to Germany and other parts of Europe. I should like to hear from you and hope to have a word from Mr. Legien in regard to the question of the International Trade Union Congress of this year. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*411*] X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. Michael Raphael, 944 Gates Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe that I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchel, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.412 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. D. D'Alessandro, General President, Int'l. Hod Carriers & Building Laborers Union, 410-12 E. Market St., Elmira, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th inst. received and contents noted. Sorry you were unable to keep the date arranged for, but write me in advance and we can probably arrange at some future time for a date mutually convenient. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.413 Z Jan. 22, 1909 Mr. A. J. Nys, Cor. Secretary, 1623 Banks Ave., Superior, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th Inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor still has under consideration the subject matter of the Douglas Shoe Co. We are endeavoring to do every- thing within our power to be helpful. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.414 Z Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. Frank McCarthy, Organizer, 97 Union Park St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 19th Inst. is received and contents noted. Thank you for the clipping which you sent. I will appreciate it if you will send me any clippings of interest which you may note from time to time in the Boston papers. I am unable to say now when the arbitrators in the strippers matter will render a decision but as soon as a de- cision is rendered it will be promptly transmitted to all in- terested parties. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.415 M January 22, 1909. Mr. George Feinberg, 60 Wall St., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 8th instant addressed to 25 Third Ave., New York City, was received here the 20th, in which you inquire if we have any literature on the question of the "closed shop" or "open Shop," and in reply would say that I am sending you under separate cover copies of my reports to the San Francisco and Pittsburgh Conventions, in which I took up this question; also pamphlet of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases" by Frank K. Foster. Trusting you may find these interesting to you, I am, Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.416 M January 22, 1909. Mr. George H. Brick, 317 West 138th St., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 17th instant addressed to 25 Third Ave., New York City, has been forwarded here, in which you state you are to take part in a debate in favor of the "Open Shop," and request liter- ature on this subject. I beg to say that you do not state on which side of this question you are to debate, and as the American Federation of Labor stands for the "Closed Shop" it is scarcely to be expected that I should furnish you with information to be used in debating against one of the cardinal principles of the organized labor movement. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.417 M January 22, 1909. Mr. Albert Parnell, McKensie, Tenn. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand, in which you state you are to debate the question "Resolved, That labor unions are a menace to the people of America," and are to support the negative side. Enclosed you please find list of pamphlets published by this office, some of which would be of assistance and interest to you in the preparation of your argument. Inasmuch as the A. F. of L. represents over 2,000,000 wage workers and is the federated body of the entire organized labor movement of the continent, the history of its growth and progress during the twenty-eight years of its existence would be the most direct and succinct form of obtaining an idea of what the organized labor movement of the country has achieved during the past two decades. For this you should consult the Proceedings of the Annual Conventions of the A. F. of L. and also the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, our official monthly publication, which is now in the 16th year year of its existence. We would not be able to furnish you with complete sets of either the bound proceedings or the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, but you could doubtless secure or consult these at some public library.418 Enclosed you will please find several leaflets stating briefly the aims and objects of the A. F. of L. They are commended to your consideration. I might add further that the evidence is overwhelming that the organization of labor is the greatest preventive of strikes. There are innumberable instances among unions where wages are regulated, hours adopted and grievances adjusted without the loss of a penny or a moment of time through the organizations of the workers of the various crafts whose affairs are conducted in a business-like way. Such adjustments are not brought to the observance of the public through the press, because nothing of a sensational character presents itself in the arrangements. A number of the national organization of the different trades have annual and biennial agreements with their employers for the adjustment of wages, hours, and other conditions of employment, whereby the probability of strikes is very much lessened, if not entirely avoided. In the matter of wages the idea of the trade unions is to steady wages and establish a minimum scale for the weaker individual who would be crushed in the mill of opposition and bring down with him his own craft and all society eventually. There will be no permanency until the toiler secures the full product of his toil. This is the aim of labor. In an educational way the trade unions have arrested the attention of all classes of society; they have given the opportunity to men whose daily labor is to a large extent drudgery, to think and to act. The labor union is the poor man's college and university. In a legistlative way, through the efforts of organized labor, laws have been enacted to secure the safety of miners; for Sunday observance; mechanics' liens; liability laws; accident laws; safety coupler laws; regular payment; abolition or company stores; anti-coer-419 cion and the hours of labor of minors, as well as the abolition of all child labor in most of the States. Many State Federations of Labor have legislative committees in attendance upon the State Legislatures for the purpose of securing legislation in the interest of labor or to prevent the passage of laws that would work to the detriment of organized labor. By referring to the reports of the Legislative Committee of the A. F. of L., as published from year to year in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, it will be noted what work has been done in that way for the enactment of federal legislation in the interests of the wage workers. In a commercial way the effect of the trade-union label is most salutary. The appearance of the union label of any trade organization, or, of the A. F. of L., is a guarantee that the product bearing this label is manufactured under sanitary conditions; that comparatively fair wages are paid to the employees, and that the work in the manufacture of the product is performed in reasonable hours. The thorough establishment and patronage of the union label is the simplest weapon for the people's use pending satsfactory legislation against the evils of the modern trust. While it would not be possible in the brief limits of this letter to give statistics, even if exact statistics had been compiled on the subject, yet it would not be unsafe to say that millions of dollars are annually expended by the trade-union organizations in the way of sick, out-of-work, funeral, and accident benefits. The trade unions in many instances manage insurance departments carrying risks from fifty to three thousand dollars. The trade unions publish their official trade papers dealing not only with trade affairs and trade conditions throughout the country, but also foreign countries. They are an open forum for the expression of the opinion of the members, as well as for general dis-420 discussion. They also publish editorials upon economics. At the same time many of these trade papers publish technical information, designs, drawings, and in many instances offer prizes for the best method of improvement of the mechanical ability of the members of the trade. If more detailed information is desired as to statistics of wages, hours, and other conditions pertaining to the different organizations, it would be well to refer to the Secretary of each trade represented. Trusting the above will be of assistance to you, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. P. S. ––In addition to the above, I beg to refer you to the following publications: Sympathetic Strikes and Lockouts, by Fred. S. Hall. The History of Trade Unions, by Beatrice and Sidney Webb. Industrial Democracy, by Beatrice and Sidney Webb. Human Progress, by Thomas S. Blair. Wealth and Progress, by George Gunton. The Evolution of a Trade Unionist, by Frank K. Foster. Six Centuries of Work and Wages, by Thorald Rogers. Organized Self-Help, by Herbert Casson. Land and Labor, by William Goodwin Moody. The New Right, by Samuel M. Jones. Letters of Love and Labor, by Samuel M. Jones. The Annals of Toil, by J. Morrison Davidson. Relations of Employer and Employe, by John P. Peters. Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration, the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July issue, 1902. Life of Henry George, by Henry George, Jr. History and Functions of Central Labor Unions, by W. Maxwell Burke. Organized Labor, by John Mitchell. Studies in American Trade Unionism, by Hollander and Barnett. A Living Wage, by Prof. John A. Ryan. The Finances of American Trade Unions, by A. N. Sakolski. The Open Shop, by Clarence Darrow. The Neglected Side of Trade Unionism––The Boycott, by Walter Gordon Merritt. The Law and the Gospel of Labor, by Luther Hess Waring. Trade Union Law, by Herman Cohen. Labor Organizations and Labor Politics, by Prof. John R. Commons.421 M January 22, 1909. Mr. Joe Norton, Mount Vernon, Washington. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 9th instant was received here on the 18th, in which you state you are to take part in a debate on the question "Resolved, That labor unions are justified in insisting through all lawful means at their disposal on the closed shop," and are to uphold the affirmative side. In reply would say, that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "Closed Shop" in my reports to the San Francisco and Pittsburg Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlets of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases," by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151- 153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N.Y.422 J. N. 2. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Should there be any published report made of your debate I will appreciate it, if you will kindly see that copy is sent to me. Very truly yours, [*Samuel Gompers,*] President American Federation of Labor.[*423*] M January 22, 1909. Miss Laura M. Roeschen, State Normal School, West Chester, Pa. Dear Madam: Your favor of the 18th instant is at hand in which you state you are to debate the question "Resolved, That Strikes are productive of more good than harm to the working people," and have the affirmative side. In reply I beg to say that the evidence is overwhelming that the organization of labor is the greatest preventive of strike. There are innumerable instances among unions where wages are regulated, hours adopted, and grievances adjusted without the loss of a penny or a moment of time, through the organizations of the workers of the various crafts whose affairs are conducted in a business-like way. Such adjustments are not brought to the observance of the public through the press, because nothing of a sensational character presents itself in the arrangements. A number of the national organizations of the different trades have annual and biennial agreements with their employers for the adjustment of wages, hours and other conditions of employment, whereby the probability of strikes is very much lessened if not entirely avoided. I wish to say that strikes and lockouts have decreased considerably in recent years, and particularly is this so as compared424 L. M. R. with the number of strikes and lockouts which would undoubtedly have occurred had it not been for the beneficent influences of the trade unions. In addition thereto it may not be amiss to say that the largest number of disputes between the workmen and employers have been adjusted by conference and joint agreements. The agreements with the employer, popularly known as the joint bargains by the unions and employers, are not generally heralded by the newspaper and the magazines, and in enumerating these, I do not exclude the labor press, for often one of the conditions of the peaceful adjustments of any con-- troversial points, or the renewal of agreements, is that they shall not be made public. I would refer you also to the following issues of the AMERICAN FEDERALIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, of which I have the honor of being editor, in which are published articles and editorials upon the subject of strikes and which will give you more fully the attitude of organized labor upon this subject: November issue, 1894. February issue, 1900. August " " September " " June " 1896. February " 1901. March " 1897 April " " October " " July " 1902. June " 1903 August " " March " 1905 You no doubt can consult this magazine at some public library. Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.425 M January 22, 1909. Mr. R. H. Harden, Secretary, Local No. 2779, U. M. W. of A., Hartford, Ark. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th instant is at hand, in which you request that an organizer be sent to the State of Arkansas, and beg to say that Organizer Henry M. Walker, is going to Fort Smith in the near future and has been directed to visit Hartford. With kind regards, and hoping that Organizer Walker's visit may result in some good to the labor movement in Arkansas, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.426 M January 23, 1909. Mr. George Groshaus, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, Newark, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th instant is at hand and contents noted. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation of the Trades and Labor Council, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother John Adams, as volunteer organizer for Newark and vicinity. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. In accordance with the information you give Brother Belcher's will be removed from our list of organizers. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.42[?] M January 22. 1909. Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Drawer 199, Lafayette, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 19th instant is at hand, relative to sending an organizer to Birmingham, Alabama, and beg to say that Brother E. W. Coberly wrote to me in reference to this matter, and I advised him that just this time, owing to the state of the Federation funds, it was impossible to send and organizer to Birmingham, but that a note would be made of his request, and when found possible to do so would be glad to comply therewith. Regretting my inability to comply with the above, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.428 M January 21, 1909. Hon. R. L. Henry, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 18th instant, in which you enclose copy of bill introduced by you on December 7, and which he appreciates. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*429*] M January 22, 1909. Mr. Schuler, Mr. Tom A. Wilson, Tacoma High School, Tacoma, Washington. Gentlemen: Your favor of the 15th instant is at hand, in which you state you are to debate the affirmative of the question "Resolved, That the Labor unions are justified in insisting, thru all lawful means at their disposal, on the closed shop, and request statistics, etc., on this subject. In reply would say, that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "Closed Shop," in my reports to the San Francisco and Pittsburg Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlets of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How When and Where He Pleases," by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which430 -2- appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of The Journal," Rochester, N. Y. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Should there be any published report made of your debate, I will appreciate it, if you will kindly see that copy is sent to me. Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.431 LF January 30, 1909 Mr. R. E. Fisher, Secretary, Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, 307 Kansas City Life Bldg., Kansas City, Mo., Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in the state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*432*] LF January 22, 1909 Mr. James Duncan, Secretary, The Granite Cutters' International Association, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he say that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to cooperate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.433 LF January 22, 1909 Mr. George Preston, Secretary, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wn. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to cooperate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.434 LF January 22, 1909 Mr. Peter W. Collins, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers of America, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.435 LF January 22, 1909 Mr. William Launer, Secretary, Glass Bottle Blowers' Assn. of the U. S. & Canada, Room 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, ofthe South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of the other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to cooperate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.436 LF January 22, 1909 Mr. James F. Bell, Local Schenectady Socialist Party, 856 Emmett St., Schenectady, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is the lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor437 LF January 22, 1909 Mr. Geo. Sutherland, Secretary, Mount Helena Miners' Union No. 138, Box 453, Helena, Mont. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are taking to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantee of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.LF January 22, 1909 Mr. Arthur W. Smith, Secretary, South Chicago Trades and Labor Assembly, 7512 Coles Ave., South Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in the communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally Yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.439 LF January 22, 1909 Mr. E. . L. G. Hohenthal, State Chairman, Connecticut Prohibition State Committee, South Manchester, Conn. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 20th instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with the request contained therein, I am enclosing to you herewith, copy of President Gompers' report to the Norfolk Convention of the American Federation of Labor with the page marked on which reference is made to the pen, with which the officers of the convention signed the constitution of the State of Oklahoma, having been presented to him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers Enclosure:440 LF January 21, 1909 Mr. J. C Werkman Secretary, Legislative Committee Ft. Wayne Federation of Labor Ft. Wayne, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th instant is received, in which you enclose copy of Compulsory Arbitration Bill introduced by delegate Bazendale at the recent meeting of the Ft. Wayne Federation of Labor, which was referred to the Legislative Committee, of which you are secretary,, that committee directing you to forward bill to me for advice. Replying thereto, I beg to say that the American Federation of Labor has declared in favor of voluntary arbitration, and is opposed to compulsory arbitration. It may not be amiss to call your attention to a statement which I made in an address before the Arbitration Congress held in Chicago, December 17, 1900, which is as follows: "Arbitration is only possible when voluntary. It never can be successfully carried out unless the parties to a dispute or controversy are equals, or nearly equals, in power to protect or defend themselves, or to inflict injury upon the other party." I am sending to you herein copy of this address which was published in pamphlet form. I would also suggest that if you have a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST that you should refer to my editorials upon this subject in the FEDERATIONIST for March, April,441 Mr. J. C. Werkman--2 issues, 1901. Also if you can refer to the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July, 1902, you can find some helpful matter in that, as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon that subject. "Compulsory courts could not enforce their decrees"except the State would re-establish involuntary servitude; in other words, slavery. And to abolish slavery, even revolution would be justifiable. By reason of the large numbers of workmen, any action which they might take for the purpose of evading award, would practically be a public act and render them liable under such a law. The employer on the other hand, could readily close down his plant by assigning any reason, and then re-open anew under any name or he might close down and "re-organize" his labor force. Either method would help him evade such a law. On the other hand, if the award was enforcible against the will of the employer, it would practically be confiscation. Then again there are other methods by which employers can evade an award, one of which was resorted to recently in New Zealand, where a Court of Arbitration decided in favor of the employees. The employer closed his plant and began ordering goods in his line from England. Whether such an employer could, at some future time, re-open his business and proceed to manufacture with other workmen upon the ground that they are not the same parties, and thus evade the award, I am not quite certain, but I have shown that there are sufficient means by which employers can evade an award. The wage earners are earnestly striving to obtain a living wage, which, when expended in the most economical manner, shall be sufficient to maintain an average-sized family in a manner[*442*] Mr. J. C. Werkman--3 consistent with whatever the contemporary local civilization recognizes as indispensable to physical and mental health, or as required by the rational self-respect of human beings. That living wage changes continually for what constitutes a living wage to-day may be entirely insufficient a decade hence. It may not be amiss to say that one of the chief advocates of the compulsory arbitration law to New Zealand, who was largely instrumental in securing its enactment in that country, is a Mr. Lusk who was in the United States in 1900, and left no way untried to laud the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, urging its adoption by the people of this country. At that time I protested against such a law being applied to our country, and stated that it may seem to act fairly well during fair times, but the law had not been put to a test through periods of industrial depression. The same Mr. Lusk, after having spent several years in New Zealand since 1900, came to the United States about a year ago, and has since publicly admitted that the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand was not a success. As a matter of fact, it is an effort to pursue an unnatural course to meet a natural situation and condition. It would be the most unwise course for labor to pursue to advocate compulsory arbitration as a means of preventing or adjusting labor disputes. Labor wants to maintain industrial peace, but it must be with honor and justice, and it must not conflict with natural human rights. Labor must organize and possess power and wield that power intelligently and discreetly. We want conciliation, and if necessary arbitration, but arbitration voluntary entered into and its terms and awards voluntarily adhered to, but compulsory arbitra_[*443*] Mr. J. C. Werkman--4 tion, never. I might say further, that some time ago I appeared before the Committee of the New York State Legislature having under consideration a compulsory arbitration bill introduced by one of the members and it might be of assistance to you if you could procure a copy of the two hearing before that committee. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.444 Z Jan. 21, 1909. Mr. Justice Phippen, Chalfonte, Atlantic, City, N. J. My dear Sir: Your favor of the 18th inst. received and contents noted with very much interest. You say you would like to read the briefs submitted in the Injunction case and contempt proceedings. I am complying with your request as far as lies in my power by sending to you under separate cover as many of these matters as I have. I would appreciate it if you would kindly return them to me after you are through with them. We have only a few copies even of the ones which I am sending. However, if you care to you may retain the copy of Justice Wright's decision and also copy of the injunction. Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. I am also sending you copies of the February and September issues of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST and marked copy of my report to the 1908 convention of the A. F. of L. You need not return either of these.445 Z Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. T. Herringshaw, Editor-in Chief, American Publishers Association, Lakeside Building, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Replying to your letter of the 20th Inst., I beg to advise that a picture of myself was mailed on January 14th but was addressed to the American Publishers Association and not to you personally. If you do not get it within a few days after receipt of this letter advise me again and I will see that you are furnished with another. Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.446 Z Jan. 22, 1909. Messrs. Ralston and Siddons, Bond Building, Washington, D. C. Gentlemen: The President of the American Federation of Musicians writes me a letter in which he says: "This morning I had a talk with Mr. Gavegan over the phone. Of course it is not within my province to give you my ideas of him in so far as the same affect you, but nevertheless, I cannot help but express the opinion that I consider the gentleman a staunch friend, and admirer of yourself. I know I do not go amiss, that if you desire the services of him in your appeal from the decision of justice Wright, he would render same for nominal hotel and railroad expenses, and no further recompense. I know that you recognize that it is understood that I'm not attempting to influence you on behalf of Mr. Gavegan, but that I am simply mentioning these facts feeling that this Attorney may be of valuable service to you, and feeling thus, I would betray my friendship to you, and would fail in my recognition of your valuable services for Organized Labor were I not to mention it." I desire to ask you whether in your opinion another attorney will be necessary in addition to yourselves and Judge Parker. I want to make answer to the letter from President Weber and would appreciate your advice at your early convenience. Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.447 Z Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. George W. Wellington, Secretary, Louisville Federation of Labor, Box 296, Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Jan. 17th has been duly received in which you refer to the matter of the train men desiring to be represented in the Louisville Federation of Labor. In connection therewith I beg to call your attention to a letter I wrote to you under date of February 8th, 1908. As you may have destroyed this letter I enclose herein a copy. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.448 COPY, Washington, D. C., Feb. 8, 1906. Mr. George W. Wellington, Secretary, Louisville Federation of Labor, Box 296, Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Owing to matters requiring my constant attention it has been impossible to reply to your letters which you wrote here sometime ago. The Norfolk Convention, together with the work outlined there, the carrying out of instructions of the convention, the Executive Council, the legislative matters, suits in court and other duties have simply interfered. Now, in connection with your query, let me say that the American Federation of Labor has always held that no organization which has seceded, been suspended or expelled by the American Federation of Labor shall be represented or given recognition in any central body. The local organizations of the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen have not seceded, been suspended or expelled from the American Federation of Labor, and I have no right or authority to direct your central body to deny local organizations of the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen representation in the Louisville Federation of Labor. I am not unmindful of the claims of the Switchmen's Union, and that the organization should be given all the rights and protection to which it is entitled and I shall be glad to give every assistance within my power to see that these rights and pro-- ttection are accorded. This assurance should need no expression from me. It ought to go without any declaration of that character on my part. I hope that the time may not be far distant when all the Railroad Brotherhoods, including the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen,[*449*] Mr. GEorge W. Wellington----2---- will be affiliated to the American Federation of Labor, and I am firmly of the opinion that so long as the Brotherhoods and their locals maintain an attitude of friendliness and fraternity toward the A. F. of L. and its affiliated unions, they should be encouraged to have their locals represented and thereby pave the way for closer unity and fraternity among all organized workers of our common country. With kind regards and best wishes for the success of our great cause and confidently counting upon your co-operation to the attainment of that purpose, I am Fraternally yours, (Signed) Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*450*] Z Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. Clifford James, Secretary, F. L. U. #7087, Goedde St. Belleville, Ill., Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th Inst. received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that in my circular letter to the affiliated national and international unions and directly affiliated local unions dated Dec. 21st, 1908, I did not advise that any specific course should be followed. I want you to read that circular again and you will find that the Denver Convention of the A. F. of L. directed that the matter of the publication of the "WE DON'T PATRONIZE LIST" in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST should be referred to the national and international unions and directly affiliated local unions for a vote. What was requested in that circular is that these organizations should vote as to whether the "WE DON'T PATRONIZE LIST" shall be republished in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Please advise as to your vote on this matter at your earliest convenience and oblige Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.451 Z Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. Marlette Crouse, Board of Editors, The Journal of American History, New Haven, Conn. Dear Sir: In reply to your letter of the 12th Inst., I enclose herein check for $3.00 in renewal of my subscription for 1909 issue of the Journal of American History. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*452*] Z Jan. 22, 1909. WHEN REPLYING REFER TO RESOLUTION #76. Mr. P. F. McCarthy, Sec.-Treas., Quarry Workers Int'l Union of North America, Scampini Bldg., Barre, Vt. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Jan. 19th received and contents noted. Inasmuch as both you and the Paving Cutters' Union are of the opinion that it would be better for some other representative of the American Federation of Labor to be present during the conference which is to be held in conformity with the provisions of Resolution #76, I beg to suggest the name of Vice-President John Mitchell. If my suggestion is agreeable to you please advise me and I will take the matter up direct with Mr. Mitchell. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*453*] Z Jan. 22, 1909. When Replying Refer to Resolution #76. Mr. John Sheret, Secretary-Treas., Paving Cutters' Union of the U. S. and Canada, Box 116, Albion, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of January 7th received and contents noted. Inasmuch as both you and the Quarry Workers' Int'l Union are of the opinion that it would be better for some other representative of the American Federation of Labor to be present during the conference which is to be held in conformity with the provisions of Resolution #76, I beg to suggest the name of Vice-President John Mitchell. If my suggestion is agreeable to you please advise me and I will take the matter up direct with Mr. Mitchell. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.454 X. Jan. 22, 1909. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Chairman, Executive Committee, Nat'l. Civic Federation, 281 4th Avenue, New York City. My dear Mr. Easley: I just received your telegram asking for ten copies of the statement by Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Morrison and myself which will be published in the February issue. I am sorry but I have given out all of the advance copies to the newspapers, but the magazine will be out in two or three days and I can send you as many copies of that as you may desire. Advise me in regard thereto, and oblige, Sincerely yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.455 X. Jan. 22, 1909. No. 4. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: The Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor adopted the report of a committee upon the subject of Industrial Education. You will find the full report of the committee and the section of the convention on pages 98 and 234 of the printed proceedings of the Denver Convention. It will be necessary for members of the Executive Council to read that report in full. You will observe that the resolution provides that the President, in conjunction with the Executive Council, is authorized to appoint a special committee of at least fifteen, to be composed of a majority of trade union members of this (the Denver) convention. The purpose of my writing to you now is to request the members of the Executive Council to recommend the names of such persons to act as members of this special committee, so that the committee may be appointed and take up at as early a date as possible the investigation of this subject matter of industrial education. As soon as the names are submitted by the members of the Executive Council, I shall again submit the names to the Executive Council for selection.456 Executive Council ––2–– Kindly give this matter your early attention and oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor,[*457*] Z Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. C. F. Michelsen, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 2613 Templeton St., Omaha, Neb. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to say that the name of William Brittain of the Stationary Engineers and Machinists' Union has been recommended to me for appointment as volunteer organizer for Omaha and vicinity. I would like the advice of the Central Labor Union as to whether this recommendation meets with the approval of that body, for if so I shall be pleased to issue the commission. Hoping to receive your early reply, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.458 Z Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. Oliver Ginney, Secretary, Joint Board, 1741 West 33rd St., Denver, Colo. Dear Sir and Brother: Of course it is needless for me to say that I am exceedingly gratified at the turn matters have taken and that I congratulate you and your colleagues upon the honorable termination of the strike. As this strike has been given so much public notice I would very much like to have a letter from you or from your committee in regard to the strike and its termination, and also in regard to the moral and even the little financial assistance we have been able to render. I want this letter for publication in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST and would like for you to let me have it not later than the 5th or 6th of February. With kind regards to yourself and asking you to convey my good wishes to all of the boys, I am Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.459 LF [Jan] January 23, 1909 Mr. J. W. Bramwood, Secretary, International Typographical Union, Rooms 640-50 Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure thepassage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*460*] LF January 23, 1909 Mr. Wesley Russell, Secretary, The Commercial Telegraphers' Union of America, 922 Monon Building, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to cooperate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can to this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.461 LF January 23, 1909 Mr. John B. Lennon, Secretary, Journeyman Tailors' Union of America, Box 597, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.462 LF January 23, 1909 Mr. John E. Bray, Secretary, Amal. Sheet Metal Worker's International Alliance, 325 Nelson Building, Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.463 LF January 22, 1909 Mr. Patrick McMullen, Secretary, International Printing Pressmen's Union, Room 702 Lyric Theatre Building, Cincinnati, Ohio, Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.464 LF January 22, 1909 Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Drawer 199, Lafayette, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to cooperate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.465 LF January 23, 1909 Mr. Otto A. Schmid, "Old College" Hall, Notre Dame, Ind. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 19th instant is received and contents noted. Enclosed you will please find list of the pamphlets published by this office and should you desire any of them, please advise me and the order will be promptly filled. In the meantime I am enclosing several leaflets which indicate briefly the aims and objects of the American Federation of Labor, and also copy of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. which I think you will find helpful in the preparation of your thesis on "The Ultimate Aims of Labor Unions." Now as to my reports to the various annual Conventions of the American Federation of Labor, they are embodied as part of the official proceedings of these conventions, as you should be able to consult a complete set of the proceedings at some public library, though I hardly think you could do so at Notre Dame. However, I am sending you under separate cover copies of my reports to the last three conventions. I would also suggest that you read "Six Centuriesof Work and Wages" by Thorald Rogers. Very truly yours SamlGompers. President, A.F. of L.[*466*] LF January 23, 1909 Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, P.O. Box 187, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your favor of the 16th instant, I beg to advise you that the gentleman who requested information as to the Dornette Desk and Haywood Chair advises me that the former is manufactured in Cincinnati, but he does not know where the latter is manufactured. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*467*] LF January 23, 1909 Mr. John J. Fischer, Secretary, United Garment Workers, Local Union #128, 411 E Laurel St., Syracuse, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suf fering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*468*] LF January 23, 1909 Mr. A. G. Wilson, Secretary, The Granite Cutters' Intl. Assn. of America, Branch Lithonia, Box 75, Lithonia, Ga. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*469*] LF January 22, 1909 Mr. John M. Love, Secretary, United Assn. of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, etc., 401 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other International unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your respective local unions in that state to cooperate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.470 LF January 23, 1909 Mr. Owen Miller, Secretary, American Federation of Musicians, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Some weeks ago President Wm. J. Smith, of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor called on me at my office and among other matters discussed at length contemplated legislative work in that state. I am just in receipt of a letter from him in which he says that there is every indication to expect that they will be able to secure the passage of some favorable legislation at this session of the state legislature, and he then requests that I should write to you and to the officers of other international unions having locals in South Carolina, requesting you and them to write to your representative local unions in that estate to co-operate in this legislative work. President Smith further says that a copy of each bill that is introduced will be mailed to every local union in the state within twenty-four hours after its introduction. Trusting that you will give whatever assistance you can in this matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*471*] M January 23, 1909. Mr. James A. Harris, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 12652, West Jonesboro, Ark. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date is at hand, in which you request that a national organizer be sent to the state of Arkansas. In reply I beg to say that Special Organizer Henry M. Walker is now at Fort Smith. It may be, however, that we can arrange for him later to visit your part of the State, but can not say definitely now. If we can possibly do so, we will be glad to have him take up the work in your section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*472*] M January 23, 1909. Mr. Clifford James, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 7087, C/o Easton's Hall, Belleville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request I enclose to you herein Articles of Agreement between Federal Labor Union No. 7087 and the St. Clair County Gas and Electric Company. I am also sending you pass word for the current term. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*473*] M January 23, 1909. Mr. Arthur F. Newell, 8 Hope College, Brown University, Providence, R. I. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 19th instant, in which you state that you are to uphold the negative of the question "Resolved, That courts with compulsory powers of investigation and award should be established to settle labor disputes in the U. S., and you desire some material on this subject. Replying thereto I beg to say that the American Federation of Labor has declared in favor of voluntary arbitration, and is opposed to compulsory arbitration. It may not be amiss to call your attention to a statement which I made in an address before the Arbitration Congress held in Chicago, December 17, 1900, which is as follows: "Arbitration is only possible when voluntary. It never can be successfully carried out unless the parties to a dispute or controversy are equals, or nearly equals, in power to protect or defend themselves, or to inflict injury upon the other party." I am sending to you herein copy of this address which was published in pamphlet form. I would also suggest that if you have a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST that you should refer to my editorials upon this subject in the FEDERATIONIST for March, April, issues, 1901. Also if you can refer to the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you can find some helpful matter in that, as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon that subject.[*474*] A. F. N. 2. Compulsory courts could not enforce their decrees" except the State would re-establish involuntary servitude: in other words, slavery. And to abolish slavery, even revolution would be justifiable. By reason of the large numbers of workmen, any action which they might take for the purpose of evading award, would practically be a public act, and render them liable under such a law. The employer on the other hand, could readily close down his plant by assigning any reason, and then re-open anew under name or he might close down and "re-organize" his labor force. Either method would help him evade such a law. On the other hand, if the award was enforcible against the will of the employer, it would practically be confiscation. Then again there are other methods by which employers can evade an award, one of which was resorted to recently in New Zealand, where a Court of Arbitration decided in favor of the employes. The employer closed his plant and began ordering goods in his line from England. Whether such an employer could, at some future time, re-open his business and proceed to manufacture with other workmen upon the ground that they are not the same parties, and thus evade the award, I am not quite certain, but I have shown that there are sufficient means by which employers can evade and award. The wage earners are earnestly striving to obtain a living wage, which when expended in the most economical manner, shall be sufficient to maintain an average sized family in a manner consistent with whatever the contemporary local civilization recognizes as indispensable to physical and mental health, or as required by the rational[*475*] A.F.N. 3. self-respect of human beings. That living wage changes continually for what constitutes a living wage to-day may be entirely insufficient a decade hence. It may not be amiss to say that one of the chief advocates of the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, who was largely instrumental in securing its enactment in that country, is a Mr. Lusk who was in the United States in 1900, and left no way untried to laud the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, urging its adoption by the people of this country. At that time I protested against such a law being applied to our country, and stated that it may seem to act fairly well during fair times, but the law had not been put to a test through periods of industrial depression. The same Mr. Lusk, after having spent several years in New Zealand since 1900, came to the United States a few months ago, and publicly admitted that the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand was not a success. As a matter of fact, it is an effort to pursue an unnatural course to meet a natural situation and condition. It would be the most unwise course for labor to pursue to advocate compulsory arbitration as a means of preventing or adjusting labor disputes. Labor wants to maintain industrial peace, but it must be with honor and justice, and it must not conflict with natural human rights. Labor must organize and possess power and wield that power intelligently and discreetly. We want conciliation, and if necessary arbitration, but arbitration voluntarily entered into and its terms and awards voluntarily adhered to, but compulsory arbitration, never. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President A.F. of L.[*476*] M January 23, 1909. Mr. Frank W. Cotterill, President, Washington State Federation of Labor, P. O. Box 1514, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant is at hand, in which you recommend the appointment of Fred Hudson of Bellingham, Washington, as volunteer organizer for that vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with this request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to to Brother Hudson in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance, in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for Bellingham. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.477 M January 23, 1909. Mr. E. C. Patterfield, 3 North Pine St., New Castle, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant is at hand, in which you state that you see by the papers that we are contemplating sending an organizer to your locality, and in that case you would like the position. In reply I beg to say that we have three organizers already at work in the State of Pennsylvania, and at the present time the funds of the A. F. of L. are in such a condition as not to warrant the appointment of additional organizers. However, a note will be made of your request, and if found possible at any time in the near future to comply therewith, your application will receive consideration, and you will advised thereof. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*478*] LF January 21, 1909 Mr. Thos. H. Palmer, Secretary, International Union of Slate Workers, Pen Argyl, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I can only write you now as I did several weeks ago, that is, that the funds of the Federation are not such as to permit appointment of any additional organizers at this time. I again desire to say that I fully appreciate the situation as you describe it to exist, and I regret exceedingly that circumstances are such as to compel me to write as above. You can rest assured that if there is any change in the situation which will enable us to comply with your request, we will be gald to do so. Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*479*] Z Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. Lee M. Hart, Secretary, Theatrical Stage Employees, State Hotel, State and Harrison Sts., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: The receipt of your several letters bearing upon the Omaha situation have been acknowledged, and I take this, my first opportunity to make formal reply thereto. I have before me not only your several letters but all other papers and correspondence in connection with this case, and briefly stated it is as follows: A contract was entered into between E. L. Johnson, Manager of the Burwood Theatre and Local Union #42, I. A. T. S. E. of Omaha, Nebraska, relative to the scale of wages and conditions to run until the end of the season 1909-10. The original contract is in possession of Mr. E. L. Johnson, and is signed by him on his behalf, and by C. E. Dickson, A. J. Allen, and C. W. Porter Contract Committee of Local Union #42. A controversy arose between the organization in interest and the management of the theatre as to wages, which controversy was referred to the Arbitration Committee of the Central Labor Union of Omaha. An agreement was signed by the members concerned in which they "hereby agree to be morally bound by the[*480*] Mr. Lee M. Hart---2--- decision rendered by the Arbitration Committee of the Omaha Central Labor Union." The matter was taken up with the Committee of the Central Labor Union and hearings were given both sides. It appears from the evidence submitted that Louis V. Guy, who is President of the Omaha Central Labor Union, acted as an ex-officio member of this Committee without voice or vote. It further appears that T. W. McCullough, a member of the Typographical Union of Omaha, appeared as counsel for Mr. Johnson, the Manager of the theatre. It further appears that Article IV, Section 7, of the Constitution of the Central Body, reads as follows: "The accused shall have a fair and impartial trial, and shall be allowed until the next regular meeting to appear and reply in person with or without counsel." (The latter must be a member of an affiliated union) The Committee of the Central Labor after hearing all the evidence that was presented decided against the contention of Local Union #42, and the Central Labor Union accepted their report. Mr. Hart takes exception to the report of the Committee, and also to the action of President Guy and Mr. McCullough, and their action in the matter, and appeals to President Gompers for a reversal of the findings of the Central Labor Union of Omaha, and its Committee in this matter. Now I want to ask you when the matter has been brought to such a pass and referred to arbitration, is it possible for me to reverse the decision of a board of arbitration entered into by both sides, who agreed in advance to abide by the decision. I want to do everything within my power to be helpful, not only to your organization but to all organized labor, but under[*481*] Mr. Lee M. Hart---3--- the circumstances as indicated above, I am free to confess that I do not see how I could take any action in the premises. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*482*] Z Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. Paul B. Scuff, Literary Society of the Y.M.C.A., 35 Nassau St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 20th Inst. has been received, in which you advise you are to debate on the question: "Are Employers Justified in Refusing Recognition to Labor Unions", and you ask me for a definition of the word "recognition". In reply I beg to say that the recognition of the Union of the employees is the right to have a representative or representatives in the form of a committee to present their interests to the employers, in other words, the right to be heard by counsel. This, as you know, is the principle recognized in our political and civic life and guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States and of the several states; that is, the right to be heard by counsel. It is merely an application of that principle to the industrial relations of working men with their employers. It is the application of collective bargaining instead of individual bargaining as based upon the poverty and direst distress and almost immediate need of those who must seek employment at any cost. Man in such a condition not only accepts employment under terms that the employer may determine, but he also sets the pace of wages and conditions that all other men must accept or go without employment.[*483*] Mr. Paul F. Scuff----2---- The recognition of the union means the right to be heard by committee, for collective bargaining is predicated upon the principle that fair wages and conditions of employment shall determine the purchase and sale of the labor of the workmen. The division and subdivision of labor and its specialization, brought about by interventions of machines and new tools of labor, have robbed workmen of their power of individual freedom of contract with their employers. Their only opportunity for anything like fair or advantageous terms under which to sell their labor is in associating themselves with their fellow workmen in making a collective bargain, a working agreement; in other words, a union and a contract by the union with employers for their labor, and the conditions under which it shall be sold. The union shop in no sense involves a denial of the right of every man to sell his labor as he may see fit, nor the employer to hire such labor. In fact, it is an affirmation of that right. Employers have the right to hire any labor they may choose, but it does not give them the right to impress workmen or to enslave them, or to drag them into a factory on any terms the employer may choose to grant as an expression of his "kindliness" Employers have the lawful right to make contracts for labor. This right carries with it also the same right of the workmen. It therefore follows that if the workers have the right to sell their labor as they see fit, they have also the right not to sell it to the employers, unless it be through the collective bargain of the union shop. As an illustration, I recently asserted that every man has the right to say "I will not work for[*484*] Mr. Paul B. Scuff---3--- you unless you make a contract with the union to which I belong and agree to employ none but members of that union." To claim that he may not say this is equivalent to saying that he must sell his labor, not as he sees fit, but as the employer sees fit. Can any reasonable answer be made, or criticism be indulged in, when employers find it to their advantage to make a contract with a reputable body of men to employ union labor exclusively and thus eliminate the possibility of strikes, disputes, factions and losses. When there is no recognition of the union, where the employer holds full sway, and the workmen unorganized generally, the lowest wages and the most miserable conditions obtain. This applies particularly to the industries in which the workmen are not organized and the establishments in which they are partially organized. The conditions usually in establishments in which the workmen are unorganized tend to make the employers who are otherwise fairly inclined to pay the highest possible wages and concede the best conditions, follow one of two alternatives: that is to cut down the wages to the lowest paid unorganized workmen or to be thus driven out of business. So that, as a matter of fact an organization of workmen tends to protect the fair minded employer against the under cutting of the unfair employer who runs amuck and who would be willing to destroy the trade by forcing poorer conditions upon the workmen. If there is any newspaper report made of your debate I would be pleased if you would send same to me. Very truly yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*485*] X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. Frank Feeney, Chief, Bureau of Elevator Inspection, Rms. 304-6-8 City Hall, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 21st, in which you invite me to be present at the annual ball of the Elevator Constructors, Union of Philadelphia, to be held February 5th and the proceeds donated to the defense fund in connection with the contempt case, has been duly received. In reply I beg to say that I very deeply regret that I shall not be able to accept this invitation, owing to pressing and important work requiring my undivided attention. However, permit me to extend to you my thanks for the invitation and best wishes for the success of the affair. I also want to express my appreciation of the purpose for which the funds of the entertainment will be contributed. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*486*] X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. Carl Recht, New York Public Library, 222 E. 79th St., New York City. Dear Sir: It is not until this writing that I have had an opportunity of taking up your letter of several weeks ago. You ask two questions in connection with the work of your library, your first question being as to the reason why workmen fail to patronize the library. To that I would reply that men and women who toil long hours employed at fatiguing work cannot be expected to take very much interest in a course of reading. Then again, when they occasionally have an hour's leisure it becomes quite a matter of concern as to the distance they may live from the library. This leads up to your second question, in reply to which I would suggest that every means should be employed to make the fact known that your library is, as I presume it is, a circulating one and that upon application books may be taken to the applicants' homes. I think you will agree with me that it is the concensus of opinion that the loss of books sustained by circulating libraries is comparatively small, and I think I can even go further and say that this opinion is borne out by reports from such libraries. Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*487*] X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. Wm. J. Smith, President, City Federation of Trades, 1820 Barnwell St., Columbia, S. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are taking to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*488*] X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. Launcelot Packer, 1522 K St., N. W., City. My dear Mr. Packer: Referring to the liability bill prepared , as there were two paragraphs on separate slips to be inserted, I have had the whole matter copied and enclose copy herein. I wish you would please advise me if the enclosed is correct, and oblige, Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.489 X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. O. B. Cooney, 600 Mill St., Conneaut, O. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 15th inst. is received and contents noted. You fail to say which organization you represent and upon whose authority you request advice or a decision as to whether the local union of Bricklayers and Masons shall be re-admitted to the Conneaut Central Body. I wish you would please advise me as to this, and in the meantime I desire to say that we are living in the present, looking forward to the future, and not back to the past. Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.490 X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mrs. Eva McDonald Valesh, Martha Washington Hotel, 29 E. 29th St., New York City. My dear Mrs. Valesh: Complying with your request, I would suggest the name of John A. Moffitt to preside at the meeting you mention. Mr. Moffitt is President of the United Hatters of North America, and though he is a very busy man, yet he might be able to devote an evening to the meeting. His address is #11 Waverly Place, N. Y. C. If Mr. Moffit should not be able to serve, I would suggest the name of Mr. John J. Murphy, former President of Typographical Union #6, 70–74 Lafayette Pl., N. Y. C. Sincerely yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.491 X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. C. M. Maxwell, Secretary, Typographical Local Union #6, 70-74 Lafayette Pl., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your kind invitation for me to attend the reception and ball of Typographical Union #6 on Thursday, Feb. 11th, at the Grand Central Palace, has been duly received. I assure you that it would afford me sincere pleasure to accept your invitation, but as matters now stand it is scarcely possible that I will be able to go to New York on that date. I want to thank you for your kind invitation and also to express my sincere hope for an enjoyable evening. With kind regards to yourself, and asking to be remembered to all the boys, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor. My engagements call me to Chicago Feb 12th. Regret but impossible to be with you Feb. 11th. S.G.492 X. Jan 23,1909. Mr. E.P. Hawley, President, Columbus Federation of Labor, c/o 342 S. Champion Ave., Columbus, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th inst. to hand and and contents noted. I have just received a similar letter from Secretary Will F. Hauck and am therefore enclosing to you a copy of my reply to him, which will be self-explanatory, and covers the purpose of your letter. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.493 X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. Will F. Hauck, Secretary, Columbus Federation of Labor, 342 S. Champion Ave., Columbus, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that unless the constitution of the Columbus Federation of Labor specifically provides otherwise, any member in good standing in the local union of his trade affiliated with the Columbus Federattion of Labor is eligible to any office within the gift of that body. As you are doubtless aware, in 1894 Mr. MacBride, though not a delegate to the Convention of the American Federat[u]ion of Labor, was elected as President. Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President, American Federation of Labor.494 X. Jan. 23, 1909. Mr. M. F. Tracy, Secretary, Geneva Central Labor Union, 51 North St., Geneva, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st inst. received and contents noted. Now in regard to the arrangements which you are making for the mass meeting to be held on February 12th, under the auspices of your Central Labor Union, beg to suggest that you correspond with Organizer Herman Robinson, 25 3d. Ave., New York City, who I think is in a position to offer some valuable suggestions. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.495 X. Jan 23, 1909. Mr. Henry S. Homan, Secretary, Federated Trades' Council, 535 Court St., 1st floor front, Reading, PA. Dear Sir and Brothe[?]: Your favor of the 19th inst. received and contents noted. I have also noted the circular letter you enclose in which the Central Labor Union of Reading is invited to attend a public conference on Industrial Education, to be conducted by the Committee on Industrial Education of the Reading Board of Education. You request my advice as to the attitude of the American Federation of Labor on the question of Industrial Education. In reply I beg to refer you to the report of the Executive Council to the Denver Convention of the American Federation of labor, page 98 of the official printed proceedings, copy of which you have, and also report of the committee on education on this subject as given on page 234 of the proceedings. The Executive Council is now considering the appointment of a committee on Industrial Education as directed by the Denver convention. In conformity with your request I return your enclosure herein. Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.496 Washington, D. C., Jan.25, 1909. Mr. Stuart Reid, Rm. 23. Reynolds Arcade, Rochester, N. Y. President Carey requests your attendance Albany conference paper makers and pulp workers. Proceed there immediately. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. Washington, D. C., Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. J. T. Carey, 32 Smith Bldg., Watertown, N. Y. Letter received today. Have directed Organizer Reid proceed Albany immediately attend conference paper makers and pulp workers. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.497 M February 25, 1909. Mr. E. A. Fimmen, Secretary, Iowa Wesleyan University Debating Association, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. Dear Sir , Your favor of the 19th instant is at hand, in which you state you wish for material on the affirmative of the question "Resolved, That present industrial conditions justify the moral and legal sanction of the closed shop principle." In reply would say that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the San Francisco, Pittsburg and Norfolk Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlet of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases," by Frank K. Foster. I could also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N. Y.498 Hoping you may find this material of interest and value to you, I am, Very truly yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.499 M January 29, 1909. Mr. J. A. Cable, Secretary, Coopers International Union of. N. A., Meriwether Bldg., Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your not written on an organizer's report blank received and noted. In reply I beg to say that our records show that commission was renewed and forwarded to you May 16, 1908. If you have not received same kindly advise us and we will issue a duplicated to you. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.500 M January 25, 1909. Mr. C. C. Houston, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, Box 462,Houston, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: A letter has been received at this office from George A. Hally, President of the Colorado State Federation of Labor, in which he recommends the appointment of W. T. Hickey as volunteer organizer for Pueblo and vicinity. Kindly advise us if this appointment meets with the approval of the Trades and Labor Assembly. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.501 M January 25, 1909. Mr. W.C. Evans, 1608 Gavetson Ave., Sioux City, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your two favors of the 18th and 23rd instant are at hand, and beg to refer you to Mr. Ralph Easley, Secretary of the National Civic Federation, 281 Fourth Ave., New York City, who no doubt can furnish you with the number of the Monthly Review of the Civic Federation, which you desire. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.502 M January 25, 1909. Mr. George Andrews, President, Central Labor Union, 1412 Fourth St., Beloit, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our recent correspondence relative to the local unions not represented in the Central Labor Union, I beg to say that I took the matter up with Secretary Frank Duffy, of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and am in receipt of a reply from him, in which he states his Local in Beloit writes him as follows: "Replying to your letter of recent date, in which you inform me that the Local here No. 926 does not affiliate with the Trades Council as per your instructions from Mr. Gompers, will say I have looked up the minutes of each meeting for the year 1908, and find that at each meeting our delegates, of which there are three, have reported invariably "no meeting," so you can we have affiliated as far as we could and better than any other local, our delegates being around should there be enough for a quorum, which there has not been during the year 1908. Further will I state I have looked vouchers for year 1908 and find local has paid per capita tax at rate of five cents per member per month every month of 1908 except December, which month we have not yet received notice of. So you will see we have done our part and more, as nearly all other locals in the city have only donated small sums to the Central Body. Would say further we are about to the point where we shall step out of the central body here, as it is doing no one any good and never has done the carpenters any good and is quite a drain on us financially." Kindly advise us in regard to the above at your convenience. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President A. F. OF L.503 M January 25, 1909. Miss Ellie McCarthy, Secretary Bottle Cainers Union No. 10,535, 316 Fourteenth St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Madam: Your favor of the 20th instant is at hand, in which you enclose receipt for the fourth week strike benefits, also individual receipts. I beg to enclose to you herein draft for $116.00, on account of benefits to 29 members of Local No 10535, for the fifth week, ending June 13, 1908: also blank receipt which kindly sign and return. Report blanks, and individual and duplicate receipts are being forwarded under separate cover. I note that Frances Nicklaus and Margaret Roholm are out of town on account of ill health, and that you will send their receipts immediately upon their return. Please do not neglect this, as it is very necessary we have same for our files. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Frattnerlly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.504 M January 25, 1909. Mr. D. A. Hayes, President, Glass Bottle Blowers Association, 930-931 Witherspoon Bldg., Phila., Pa. Dear Mr. Hayes: Your favor of the 23rd instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover fifty copies of the call for defense fund in the appeal case under date of the 18th instant. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.505 M January 25, 1909. The Denver Express, Denver, Colorado. Gentlemen: Enclosed please find [send] five cents in stamps, for which kindly send me five copies of your paper of January 18, and oblige, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.506 M January 25, 1909. Mr. Gus F. Miller, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 708 Locust St., Des Moines, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of a letter from A. L. Urick, President Iowa State Federation of Labor, in which he states that the Trades Assembly requests that the name of William T. Bradfield be taken from the list of organizers. As Brother Bradfield was recommended by the Trades and Labor Assembly, I would request that you furnish us official notification to discontinue Brother Bradfield, in order that we may have same for our files. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.507 M January 25, 1909. Mr. A.L. Urick, President, Iowa State Federation of Labor, Des Moines, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant is at hand, and in accordance with the information you give the name of B. Bradfield will be removed from our list. I thank you for calling this matter to my attention. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.508 M January 25, 1909. Mr. H. H. Davis, Attorney-at-Law, Centertown, Ky. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 19th instant is at hand, in which you state that you once had a carpenters organization in the Centertown, but that the membership was not sufficient to keep it up, and you desire a charter to organize under the Federation of Labor. In reply I beg to say, that if there is not a sufficient number to form a local union of a trade affiliated with an international union, a federal labor union could be formed, and become directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. I enclose to you herein blank application for charter, which should be filled with the names of seven of the members or officers of the temporary organization, and forwarded to this office, accompanied by a statement as to the nature of the work performed by the members, and also the regular charter and charter outfit fee of $10.00. I am also enclosing a circular "How" which will give you the necessary instructions as to how to form a federal labor union. I note from your letter head that you are an Attorney-at-Law, and beg to say that businessmen, professionial men and employers of labor, are not eligible in a local union directly affiliated to the509 H. H. D. American Federation of Labor I should be glad, however, to hear from you further in regard to this matter. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.510 [X} X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. E. B. Campbell, Secretary, Macon Central Labor Union, Macon, Ga. Dear Sir: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making, to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantee of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.511 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. L. H. Moore, Secretary Treasurer, Arkansas State Federation of Labor, Box 443, Little Rock, Ark. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with Jon Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making, to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of the personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing uponyou and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.512 X. Jan. 25, 1909 Mr. Frank L. Rist, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 1311 Walnut St., Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making, to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of any one, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.X. Jan. 25, 1903. Mr. A. L. Hook, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Local #1212, Box 296, Coffeyville, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.514 X. Jan. 25, 1909 Mr. Owen McCabe, c/o Butter Miners' Union, Butte City, Mont. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making, to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of any one, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor 515 X. Jan 25, 1909. Mr. W. H. Smale, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Wausau, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22d. inst. to hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to inform you that the International Union of the United Brewery Workmen has its headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. Secretary, Mr. Louis Kemper, Cor. Vine and Calhoun Sts. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.516 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. J. C. Colgan, The Union Leader, 88 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 22d. inst., and under separate cover copies of briefs in street railway injunction proceedings, for which you will please accept President Gompers' thanks. He would write to you personally but for the fact that he is on the witness stand in the Lowe Hatters' case and therefore has no opportunity for any attention to his correspondence. Very truly yours, R. Lee Girard Secretary to President Gompers.517 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Chas. Baker, 1220 N St., N. W., City. My dear Mr. Baker: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 20th inst. and under separate cover the photograph of Mr. Gompers, for which you will please accept his thanks. He would write to you personally but for the fact that he is on the witness stand in the Lowe Hatters' case and therefore has no opportunity for any attention to his correspondence. He will appreciate greatly the other pictures which you say you will send later. Very truly yours, R. Lee Girard Secretary to President Gompers.518 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Lawrence A. Grace, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Rm. 2, Labor Temple, Providence, R. I. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st inst. received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting held in this city March 16-20, 1908, had under consideration the matter of the application for charter made by the Federation of State, City and Town Employes Union, Boston. After careful consideration of the entire subject matter, the Executive Council was of the opinion that it would not be to the best interests of the State, City and Town Employees, nor to the best interests of labor generally to issue a charter to such an organization, but that the best interests of all would be served by the continuation of the local unions in direct affiliation to the American Federation of Labor. At the meeting of the Executive Council held in July, 1908, in Chicago, this matter was again brought before the Executive Council and the previous decision was re-affirmed. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.519 X. Jan 23, 1909. Mrs. Susan W. Fitzgerald, Secretary, Boston Equal Suffrage Association, 6 Marlborough St., Boston, Mass. My dear madam: Your favor of the 21st inst. is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that matters have now so shaped themselves as to make it impossible for me to accept your invitation to take part in debate with Mr. Samuel J. Elder upon the question of the use of the injunction. The duties pressing upon me are so insistent and overwhelming that I do not feel warranted at this time in making any additional engagements. I beg to assure you that nothing would give me greater pleasure than to participate in a debate with either Mr. Elder or any other gentleman upon the abuse of the injunction process, but you can readily realize that it is impossible for me to perform the duties of my office if I were to undertake to debate with every gentleman who may be opposed to the rights and interests of labor upon this or upon any other subject. I have written considerable upon the matter. I have discussed the subject of injunctions both in debate as well as in public addresses and lectures, and also in my reports to the conventions, and in editorials through the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I assure you that I employ no idle words when I say that I regret exceedingly that I find it impossible to accept the invitation520 Mrs. Susan W. Fitzgerald--2-- to discuss this question, particularly at this time. I shall on Monday send you a copy of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST containing Justice Wright's decision and sentence and an editorial review of the same. With kindest regards and best wishes, I beg to remain, Yours very truly, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.521 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. J. M. Imler, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 609 W. 26th St., Altoona, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 23d. inst. received and contents noted. I have looked up our records and find that the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is being sent to you at the above address and am at a loss to account for its not being received. Would suggest that you inquire at the post office and have a tracer sent out, as the magazine leaves this office promptly for your address. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.522 X. Jan. 25, 1909. The Atlantic Monthly Co., 4 Park St., Boston, Mass. Gentlemen: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 23d. inst., and under separate cover advance copy of your February issue, and to thank you in his name for your courtesy in forwarding same to him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Girard Secretary to President Gompers.523 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. W. J. Bradford, Secretary, Central Labor Council, Box 1096, Tacoma, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th inst. is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that your invitation to the Executive Council to hold a meeting during the summer in Tacoma, Washington, will be placed before my colleagues at their next meeting, which will be held in this city in April, and you will be duly advised as to the conclusion reached. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.524 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Frank Crabtree, Recording Secretary, Oil and Gas Well Workers Union #12004, Sour Lake, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th inst. received and contents noted. You say that you have been directed by Local #12004 to request information as to the benefits to which your organization will be entitled by reason of its affiliation to the American Federation of Labor and the payment of per capita tax. First let me direct your attention to Article 13 of the Constitution, copy of which is enclosed herein, from which you will note the conditions under which directly affiliated local unions become entitled to financial assistance from the Defense Fund in the case of strikes and look-outs. Your attention is further directed to the enclosed leaflets which indicate briefly the aims and objects of the Federation, and what it endeavors to accomplish in behalf of its affiliated organizations. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[**525**] X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Jean T. Reed, Little Valley, New York. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22d. inst. received and contents noted. In reply to your request that I should deliver an address before the Lily Dale Assembly July 9-Aug. 19th, inclusive, I beg to say that it will be impossible for me to accept your invitation as I expect to spend the summer in Europe. The last annual convention of the American Federation of Labor directed me to visit England and a number of European countries for the purpose of making an investigation of labor conditions and report to the next annual convention. Let me suggest that you extend an invitation to some member of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, whose names and addresses appear upon this letter head. Regretting my inability to comply with your request, I am, Very truly yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[**526**] X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, President, International Molders' Union, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 22d. inst. and to thank you for the copies of the two quarterly reports of Financier Metcalf. If you have any published statements of the total benefits paid by your international union since the inauguration of this system, he would appreciate it if you would send him a number of copies. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[**527**] X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. E. B. Campbell, Secretary, Macon Central Labor Union, Macon, Ga. Dear Sir: In addition to my letter of this date, replying to your favor of the 20th inst., it has just been called to my attention that the Central Labor Union of Macon is not affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. It is for that reason, therefore, that I am addressing this letter to you, and I most earnestly hope that the question of affiliation with the American Federation of Labor will receive the most careful and earnest consideration of your Central Body. We all agree that it is morally wrong for any workman to remain outside of the union of his trade, and all unionists also declare that it is wrong for a local union of trade to remain outside of its International Union. The same reasoning also applies to Central Labor Unions and their affiliation with the American Federation of Labor, for it must be equally morally wrong for an International Union or a Central Body to remain outside of the ranks of the great trade unions of America, which are banded together under the banner of the American Federation of Labor. The position taken by the advocates of isolation of the labor organization when affiliation is necessary, is just as falla-528 Mr. E. B. Campbell --2-- cious and illogical as is the belief of isolation of the individual worker from his union, when organization is so essential to him to protect and further his own and his fellow workers' interests. In becoming affiliated with the A. F. of L. there is no less of any right that members or unions surrender, and the autonomy and independence are guaranteed and maintained. Affiliation and non-affiliation present the contrast between cohesion and repulsion, or between co-operation to aid each others interests, and indiffer- ence to each others conditions; in a word, the recognition of the true meaning of unionism versus non-unionism. In the American Federation of Labor we endeavor to bring about a co-operative effort in order to advance the interests of the toiling masses, to bring to the aid of an organization engaged in dispute the practical sympathy and aid of their organized brothers and sisters of labor. It is an effort to accomplish the greatest good to all concerned, without inflicting upon any of the evil of gov-ernmental authority by an individual or a [number of individuals]. In the face of antagonism of all kinds from all sides, the American Federation of Labor has steadily forged its way to the front, until today, it stands pre-eminently as the living aggressive organized labor movement of the country. To become affiliated with the American Federation of Labor is to manifest a duty which every trade union, and every central and state branch readily recognize. In the work of the organization of labor, the most ener- getic, the wisest and devoted of us, when working individually, cannot hope to be successful, but, by combining our efforts, the probabilities of success are thereby just that much increased, and the combined action of all the unions, when exerted in favor of any one union, will certainly be more efficacious than the action of529 Mr. E. B. Campbell --3-- any one union, no matter how powerful it may be, if exerted in favor of an unorganized or partially organized [?]ss. The rapid and steady growth of the American Federation of Labor, arising from the affiliation of previously isolated, t0- gether with newly formed national unions, the establishment of local unions of various trades and callings, where non before existed; the spontaneous formation of federal labor unions, compos[ed?] of wage workers following various trades in places where there are too few persons employed at any particular one to allow the formation of local unions of those trades, thus furnishing valuable bodies of auxiliaries and recruits to existing unions upon change of abode; the formation of city central bodies and state branches is gratify- ing evidence of the appreciation of the toilers of this broad land of a form of general organization, in harmony with their most cher- ished traditions, and in which trade enjoys the most perfect liberty, while securing the fullest advantages of united action. The financial require[?] of our affiliated organizations are not burdensome. The charter fee is $[????] tax for central bodies is $10.00 per year, payable quarterly. Sincerely hoping that favorable action will be taken on this question by your union and that I will hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor530 M January 26, 1909. Mr. Daniel J. Keefe, Commissioner-General of Immigration, Washington, D. C. Sir: Your favor of the 15th instant was submitted to the Execu- tive Council of the American Federation of Labor during its session recently held here. I have been on the witness stand for several days in the suit brought against the United Hatters of North America, and this together with my other duties has made it impossible for me to communicate with you earlier in regard to the conclusion reached. I beg to say that the Executive Council having under con- sideration your communication suggesting a meeting between Mr. Straus, Secretary of Commerce and Labor and the representatives of the wage earners, directed me to say, that when the Secretary shall call the meeting, the undersigned together with such members of the Executive Council as are able, will be in attendance at the conference. While the questions suggested in the synopsis of the dif- ferent subjects to be considered are of importance, I am sure there are others requiring legislative consideration, that should undoubted- ly receive the careful attention of all interested in the welfare of[**531**] D. J. K. 2. the wage earners, more especially as they affect the right of organization and the exercise of the normal activities of organized existence. Inasmuch as I have many engagements of important character, I should be pleased to be advised in sufficient time in advance as to when the conference is to be held. Respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.532 Washington, D. C., Jan. 26, 1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. What hour during the day is the meeting in Chicago to be held February twelfth? SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[**533**] X. Jan. 26, 1909. No. 5. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: Have been advised by Vice President Duncan of the American Federation of Labor, and Secretary Bain of the Boot and Shoe Workers International Union, that the negotiations undertaken by the Brockton City Committee have failed to bring about an adjustment of the controversy between the Boot and Shoe Workers Union and the W. L. Douglas Shoe Company. I have therefore carried out the resolution adopted by the Executive Council in regards to the matter, and sent a letter to the Boot and Shoe Workers' Union of which the enclosed is a copy. Should any matter of interest arise in regard to this dispute and the proffer of our good offices, I shall keep you advised. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*534*] X. Jan. 26, 1909. Mr. Charles L. Bain, Secretary, Boot and Shoe Workers International Union, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to advise you that at the meeting of the Executives Council of the American Federation of Labor, the undersigned was directed to advise you that in the event of the failure of the negotiations by the City Committee of Brockton to adjust the controversy between your union and the W. L. Douglas Shoe Company, that the Executive Council will tender its good offices in any effort to bring about an adjustment of matters in dispute. Having been advised that the efforts of the Brockton City Committee have not resulted in a termination of the dispute, the tender of the trade of both parties to the controversy, as well as to the great cause in which we are engaged. I will be pleased to hear from you at your earliest convenience in regard to this matter, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President, American Federation of Labor535 M January 26,1909. Mr. Frank L. Buchanan, 1134 Chestnut St. , St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: I am directed by President Gompers to acknowledge receipt of your favor of January 23rd: also copy of the book "The Man with Pick vs. The Man with Book," and to thank you for same. Very truly yours, R. Lee Leon Sec. to President Gompers.536 M January 26 1909. Mr. Paul J. Simison, New Wilmington, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 20th instant is at hand, in which you state you would like to have the opinion and views of American Federation of Labor in regard to Compulsory Arbitration. as a method of settling disputes between labor unions and corporations, as you expect to speak on this subject in an inter-collegiate debate. Replying thereto I beg to say that the American Federation of Labor has declared in favor of the voluntary arbitration, and is opposed to compulsory arbitration. It may be not amiss to call your attention to a statement which I made in an address before the Arbitration con- gress held in Chicago, December 17, 1900, which is as follows: "Arbitration is only possible when voluntary. It never can be successfully carried out unless the parties to a dispute or controversy are equals, or nearly equals, in power to protect or defend themselves, or to inflict injury upon the other party." I am sending to you herein copy of this address which was published in pamphlet form. I would also suggest that if you have a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST for March, April issues, 1901. Also if you can refer to the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you can find some helpful matter in that, as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered[*537*] P. J. S. 3. with whatever the contemporary local civilization recognizes as indispensable to physical and mental health, or as required by the rational self-respect of human beings. That living wage changes continually for what constitutes a living wage today may be entirely insufficient a decade hence. It may not be amiss to say that one of the chief advocates of the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, who was largely instrumental in securing its enactment in that country, is a Mr. Lusk who was in the United States in 1900, and left no way untried to laud the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, urging its adoption by the people of this country. At that time I protested against such a law being applied to our country, and stated that it may seem to act fairly well during fair times, but the law had not been put to a test through periods of industrial depression. The same Mr. Lusk, after having spent several years in New Zealand since 1900, came to the United States a few months ago, and publicly admitted that the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand was not a success. As a matter of fact, it is an effort to pursue an unnatural course to meet a natural situation and condition. It would be the most unwise course for labor to pursue to advocate compulsory arbitration as a means of preventing or adjusting labor disputes. Labor wants to maintain industrial peace, but it must be with honor and justice, and it must not conflict with natural human rights. Labor must organize and possess power and wield that power intelligently and discreetly. We want conciliation, and if necessary arbitration, but arbitration voluntarily entered into and its terms and awards voluntarily adhered to, but compulsory arbitration, never. Very truly yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President 538 P. J. S. 2. upon that subject. "Compulsory courts could not enforce their decrees" except the State would re--establish involuntary servitude: in other words, slavery. And to abolish slavery, even revolution would be justifiable. By reason of the large numbers of workmen, any action which they might take for the purpose of evading award, would practically be a public act and render them liable under such a law. The employer on the other hand, could readily close down his plant by assigning any reason, and then re-open anew under any name or he might close down and "re-organize" his labor force. Either method would help him evade such a law. On the other hand, if the award was enforcible against the will of the employer, it would practically be confiscation. Then again there are other methods by which employers can evade an award, one of which was resorted to recently in New Zealand, where a Court of Arbitration decided in favor of the employes. The employer closed his plant and began ordering goods in his line from England. Whether such an employer could, at some future time, reopen his business and proceed to manufacture with other workmen upon the ground that they are not the same parties, and thus evade the award, I am not quite certain, but I have shown that there are sufficient means by which employers can evade an award. The wage earners are earnestly striving to obtain a living wage, which, when expended in the most economical manner, shall be sufficient to maintain an average-sized family in a manner consistent[*539*] M January 26, 1909. Mr. Charles C. Beale, President, Maine State Federation of Labor, 93 Summer St., Auburn, Maine. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant is at hand, and I note what you say relative to the appointment of John C. Clarks, as special organizer for three months at least. In reply I beg to say that I regret exceedingly to inform you that after consultation with Secretary Morrison, I learn that the Federation funds are in such a condition at present as to make it impossible to appoint additional organizers at this time. I fully appreciate the situation, and it gives me genuine pain to have to write you as above, but if we have not the funds with which to pay the salary and meet expenses of an organizer, it would be worse than folly to make the appointment. It might not be amiss to say further that a member of national unions and state federations of labor have made similar requests, to all of which we have been compelled to reply as above. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President A. F. of L.[*540*] M January 26, 1909. Mr. William McLean, Secretary, Local No. 1167 United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Enfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: The resolution of Local No. 1167, under date of January 12th has been received, and in accordance therewith commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother M. S. Catlin as volunteer organizer for Enfield and vicinity. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President American Federation of Labor.[*541*] M January 26, 1909.Mr. Fred J. Myers, Box 433, Buhl, Idaho. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st instant is at hand and contents noted. You state that it is the desire of the workmen in your vicinity to organize a federal labor union, and would say, that this course will be satisfactory if there is not a sufficient number of any of the trades represented to form a local or a trade affiliated with an international union. A federal labor union is simply a recruiting ground for those wage earners whose trades are not organized, and whose members are not sufficient to form a local union, and it is understood that as soon as the number of workers of any trade represented in a federal labor union become sufficient, those workers are required to withdrawal and form a local union of that trade. I enclose to you herein blank application for charter, which should be filled in with the names of seven of the officers or members of the temporary organization, and forwarded to this office together with the charter and charter outfit fee of $10.00. The application should always be accompanied with a statement as to the nature of the work performed by these laborers. I am also enclosing a[*542*] F. J. M. 2. circular "How" which gives full instructions how to form a federal labor union. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President American Federation of Labor.[*543*] M January 26, 1909. Mr. T. C. Rice-Way, 142 Market St., Newark, N. J. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22nd instant is a hand, in which you state that you are to take part in a debate on the question "Resolved, That the general welfare of the American people demands the open shop principle in our industries," and you desire some information. In reply I beg to say that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the San Francisco, Pittsburg and Norfolk Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you a pamphlet of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases, by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at the cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1805, issue of :The Journal," Rochester, N. Y.[*544*] T. C. H. 2. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Should there be any published report made of your debate I will appreciate it, if you will kindly see the copy is sent to me. Very truly yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President American Federation of Labor.545 M January 26, 1908. Mr. E. W. Blakey, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, 807 West Clay St., Richmond, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Information has reached this office to the effect that one of your organizers in Richmond is dead. Will you kindly advise if this information is correct, and if so, which one. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President American Federation of Labor.546 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. George W. Harris, 542 Cuyler Avenue, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st inst. received and contents noted. Now that you have taken up your abode in Chicago, I hope to have the opportunity of seeing you some times when I visit that city, and by the way, I may be in Chicago next month. I would indeed be glad to act upon your suggestion, but just at present it is not within my power to do so, for it has been difficult for quite some time for us to even meet the expenses of the regular organizers who have been continuously at work for the American Federation of Labor, much less to undertake any additional expenses. I hope, however, that circumstances may be different in the near future and if we can make use of your services in any way we shall certainly be glad to do so. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President American Federation of Labor.546 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. George W. Harris, 542 Cuyler Avenue, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st inst. received and contents noted. Now that you have taken up your abode in Chicago, I hope to have the opportunity of seeing you some times when I visit that city, and by the way, I may be in Chicago next month. I would indeed be glad to act upon your suggestion, but just at present it is not within my power to do so, for it has been difficult for quite some time for us to even meet the expenses of the regular organizers who have been continuously at work for the American Federation of Labor, much less to undertake any additional expenses. I hope, however, that circumstances maybe different in the near future and if we can make us of your services in any way we shall certainly be glad to do so. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President American Federation of Labor.547 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Philip J. Byrne, Organizer, Boot and Shoe Workers' International Union, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 23d. inst. from Muncie, Ind., has been duly received and contents noted, and I thank you very much for calling my attention to the fact that the Central Labor Unions in Crawfordsville, Frankfort, Anderson, and Peru, Ind., can in your opinion be now re-organized. I hope to be able to take this matter up in the near future through one of the special organizers of the American Federation of Labor now at work in the State of Indiana. I want to thank you also for your expression in regard to the recent decision handed down by Justice Wright. In connection therewith I would suggest that you read the statement made by Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Morrison and me, and which appears in the editorial section of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. It is the first and only statement we have made since my statement to the court when sentence was pronounced. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President American Federation of Labor.548 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Geo. B. Howley, President, Minnesota State Federation of Labor, 2214 Fourth St. North, Minneapolis, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st inst. received and contents noted. I am unable yet to make you any definite promise in regard to organizing work in Minnesota. The funds of the American Federation of Labor are still in such shape as to make it inadvisable to undertake any additional work just for the present. We may be able later on, and I hope we will be, to take up the work in Minnesota and the Dakotas, and I would suggest that you write me again in the course of the next three weeks. I am indeed gratified to know that Lincoln's birthday will be properly celebrated by organized labor throughout the State of Minnesota, as recommended by the Denver Convention. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.549 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. R. A. Ripley, Recording Secretary, Local #99, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 30 North Court St., Providence, R. I. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st inst. received this evening and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that at the meeting of the Executive Council held in this city January 11-16, the entire subject matter of the Electrical Workers was taken up, the representatives of both sides being in attendance. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.550 M January 27, 1909. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. My dear Mr. Pierce: Your favor of the 23rd instant is received. Mr. Gompers and I have gone over his New York engagements, and as he has several engagements for each day and evening, I am afraid he will not be able on this trip to arrange for an hour with you as you suggest. In all probability he will return here on Monday the 1st, as the engagement for that date has been postponed. He expects to remain here about ten days when we will go West. He directs me to say that if you can come to Washington before he goes West, he will be glad to take up with you the matter about which you write. Should you decide to come kindly advise either him or me, so that a definite hour may be kept for you. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Gerard Sec. to President Gompers. [*Br.*] [*P.S. Since dictating the above Mr. Gompers has made a date for the 10th. He will leave for the West on the 11th. Mr. Gompers usually stops at the Prince George,*]551 LF Washington, D. C., Jan. 26, 1909 Mr. Stuart Reid, Room 23 Reynolds Arcade, Rochester, N. Y. Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver. American Federation of Labor recognizes Frank McNulty and Peter G. Collins as President and Secretary International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Organized labor the country over should act in conformity therewith. Samuel Gompers (Charge to A. F. of L.)552 X. Jan 23, 1909. Mr, Joseph Barondess, 165 East Broadway, New York City. Dear Mr. Barondess, Your favor of the 23d. inst. to hand and contents noted. In conformity with your request and my promise, I beg to say that I shall be pleased to see you and Mr. Miller at the New York office of the American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York City, on Saturday, January 30th. I have so many conferences to attend on that day that I really cannot now designate an hour for our meeting. I would suggest, however, that you call me up over the 'phone at Orchard 679 and I shall then be better able to determine the hour when I can devote half an hour or so to meeting you and Mr. Miller. With kindest regards and best wishes, I am, Sincerely yours, Sam Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.553 X. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. F. L. Siddons, Bond Building, (Personal.) City. My dear Mr. Siddons: I want to thank you for your letter of the 22d. inst. I assure you that it is deeply appreciated. If I may feel when the times comes for me to join the Great Majority, that my life's work has added somewhat to the uplift of humanity, I shall feel that I have not lived in vain. No matter how hard the struggle may have been, and with how many difficulties I may have had to contend, with all my heart I join in your hope that the "battle will be waged and won with the mighty weapons of voice and pen". Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers554 X. Jan 26, 1909. The Daily News, Chicago, Illinois. Gentlemen: A friend has sent me a clipping from the Daily News of January 23d, in which is published a statement by Miss Jean M. Gordon which she is alleged to have made at the conference on child labor recently held in Chicago. If Miss Gordon stated that the American Federation of Labor is not in accord with [our] every movement against child labor, that it thwarted any plan to limit the hours of labor of children to nine per day, that it or anyone in its behalf had introduced a ten hour bill in Louisiana Legislature or in any way stood for any other than the best possible conditions and the shortest possible workday for children, I say, if Miss Gordon made any such statement as I have summarized, and which is based upon what you publish in regard to her, she either misunderstood or wholly misrepresents the work, purposes, and action of the American Federation of Labor. If there be any body of men which has sincerely propogated the agitation for a shorter workday and the age limit for children to enter the industrial field, it is the American Federation of Labor and its men and women. It is a gross injustice on the part of anyone to state otherwise.555 The Daily News --2-- To Endeavor to correct the false impression created, will you kindly give this refutation a conspicuous place in the Daily News? Closing I may say that I am causing an inquiry to be made as to what basis there may be for Miss Gordon's statement as to applying to anyone, and will endeavor to communicate the result to you when ascertained. Very respectfully yours. Sam Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. 556 LF January 27, 1909 Mr. Joseph N, Weber, President, American Federation of Musicians, Outlook Building, Columbus, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 11th was duly received and contents noted. As soon as I had the opportunity, I took up with our attorneys, Messrs. Ralston and Siddons, your suggestion in regard to Mr. Gavegan. They advised me that they recognize Mr. Gavegan as a man of ability, that when the time comes they will be glad to have him look over the briefs made in our case, and that any suggestions or additions which Mr. Gavegan cares to make will be given thoughtful consideration. I thank you very much for your courtesy in this matter. Hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor.557 LF January 27,1909 Mr. C. E. Clemens, Vice-President Division #125, A. A. of S. & E. R. E. of A. P. O. Box 311, Collinsville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th instant is at hand and contents noted. In compliance with the request contained therein, I am sending to you under separate cover list of unions affiliated to the American Federation of Labor, including internationals, state branches and central labor unions. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.558 LF January 27,1909 Mr. E. D. Hawkins, Marceline, No. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant is received and contents noted. In reply thereto I wish to state that I have sent copy of your letter to Mr. J. F. Tobin, President of the Boot and Shoe Workers Union, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass., who no doubt will furnish you with the desired information. Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.559 LF January 27, 1909 Mr. Charles L. Baine, Secretary, Boot and Shoe Workers' Union, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: When you were here you requested me to send you a number of copies of the circular appeal for financial assistance in the legal defense in the injunction and contempt proceedings, and in compliance with your request. I am sending a dozen copies of the appeal, under separate cover. May I suggest the idea that apart from anything which you think the Executive Board of your organization may do on behalf of the Boot and Shoe Workers Union as such, that the appeal should go for voluntary contributions by the locals and the membership of the locals. In any event, the matter is submitted to you for such action as you may care to take. With best wishes for yourself and President Tobin, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.560 LF January 27, 1908 Mr. John F. Tobin, President, Boot and Shoe Workers' Union, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: We are today in receipt of a letter from Mr. E. D. Hawkins of Marceline, Missouri, and are enclosing herein copy of the same, which is self-explanatory. I have written Mr. Hawkins that you would write him in regard thereto. Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor Enclosure:561 (Copy) Marceline, Mo., January 24, 1909 Mr. Samuel Gompers, 423 G St. N.W., Washington, DC. Dear Sir and Brother: Am going to ask you for some information which I trust you will find time to give. What I want is in regards to the Boot and Shoe Workers Union, as I am contemplating starting a repair shop and making new work and wish to start under union principles exclusively. How can I proceed to get the use of the label on my work? Who is their national president, etc. Am practical workman myself, wish to join the union. There is no shoe union closer than say 125 miles. Can I hold membership somewhere? Trusting you will find time to give me the desired information, and with best regards I am, Yours respectfully, (Signed) E. D. Hawkins.562 [O]X. Jan. 27, 1909. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, NO. 6. COLLEAGUES: At the meeting of the Executive Council held at Headquarters, the undersigned was directed to communicate with Mr. Keefe, Commissioner General of Immigration, regarding the subject matter of the proposed conference of representatives of wage earners with Mr. Straus, Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Labor. The proposed conference and the subjects to be discussed were gone over at our meeting. The undersigned was directed to communicate with Mr. Keefe and to request such of those of the Executive Council to be in attendance who could give their time for that purpose. Mr. Keefe advises me that the conference will be held at the office of the Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Labor ten o'clock, Wednesday morning, February 10th, 1909. I shall be pleased to have the co-operation of such members of the Executive Council who can be in attendance, and it will be additionally important if a conference could be held in the office of the American Federation of Labor the evening before, that is, say 7:30 Tuesday evening, February 9th. I urgently request that members of the Executive Council will immediately advise me in regard to this matter of those who can attend. Fraternally yours Sam Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.563 X. Jan 27, 1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, President, Cigar Makers' International Union, Monon Bldg, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother, Your favor of the 23d. inst. to hand, in which you enclose clipping from the Chicago Daily News of Jan. 23d. I am enclosing you copy of letter I have just written to the Daily News, and I have also written the New Orleans Central Body sending them a copy of the clipping, and asking what grounds, if any, Miss Gordon had for her statements. Thanking you for bringing the matter to my attention, I am, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.564 X. Jan. 27, 1909 Mr. Geo. Humphrey, Secretary, Hotel and Restaurant Employes' Alliance, Local 61, 1137 1/2 Commerce St., Tacoma, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 19th inst. received, in which you send a special invitation to the Executive Council to hold their summer meeting in your city. I will be pleased to lay the matter before my colleagues at our next meeting, which will be in the month of April. Withkind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.565 X. Jan 27, 1909. Mr. Wm. E. Sedgley, Secretary, Local #258, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 156 Lippit St., Providence, R.I. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 23d. inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that at the meeting of the Executive Council held in this city Jan. 11-16, the entire subject matter of the Electrical Workers was taken up, the representatives of both sides being in attendance. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at D enver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associatescomplied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President a nd Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are used to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support. Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.566 X. Jan. 27, 1909. Mr. Joe F. Valentine, President, International Molders' Union, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th inst. received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I enclose you herein several copies of the circular appeal for financial assistance in the legal defense of the injunction and contempt proceedings. May I suggest the idea that apart from anything which yo u think the Executive Board of your organization may do on behalf of the Iron Molders' Union as such, that the appeal should go for voluntary contributions by the locals and the membership of the locals. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours. Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.567 X. Jan. 27, 1909 Mr. George Buoch, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, 323 North Roman St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find a typewritten copy of a statement published in the Chicago Daily News of January 23d. 1909. The clipping of the paper was forwarded to me here and I have had it typewritten so that you may see its contents. I have written a letter to the Chicago Daily News of which the enclosed is a copy. I desire to ask you to write to me in regard to this matter and give any information which you may have upon the subject. Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt and careful attention, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.568 COPY. Clipping from the Chicago Daily News, of January 23, 1909. A. F. of L. FOE TO CHILD? Jean M. Gordon Tells Conference it Defeated Louisiana Short-Hour Bill. Woman Scores Labor Body. Won Clerks' Fight, but Met Employers' Wishes Where Weak One Was Concerned, She Charges. That the American Federation of Labor is not in accord with the work of the agitators against child labor and thwarted legislation in their behalf in the state of Louisiana was the charge made today by Miss Jean M. Gordon, the Louisiana delegate to the child- labor conference. The statement was made in an address entitled "The Forward Step in Louisiana" before the assembled guests in the banquet hall of the Auditorium hotel. Miss Gordon intimated that the bill finally passed by the Louisiana assembly which fixed the ten-hour day as the period of work for woman and child was drafted by men who were working at the instigation of the manufacturers. CHARGES MADE OPENLY. "I am a unionist," declared Miss Gordon, "but I have lost all faith in the assistance which might come from the Federation of Labor. It thwarted our plans in Louisiana and seemed to have drafted the bill governing the limit of workday at the instigation or for the interest of the manufacturer. "Our fight for a child-labor law in the state assembly was bitterly contested by the capitalists' representatives. Think of the shock when we presented our bill demanding a nine-hour day for women and children when we found that the Federation of Labor was before us with a bill asking for a ten-hour day for women and children. "This much-vaunted and great body of men working for the interests of the wage earners demanded a ten-hour day for women whose faces were worn with suffering, want and neglect, and for children who were half developed, half starved and suffering from disease. GOT A SHORT DAY FOR CLERKS. "At the same time the Federation of Labor asked and received an eight-hour day for railway clerks who sit down all day and simply push a pen. They did not think of the woman in the mill bearing a man's burden on her shoulders, or the child doing the work which should be his father's duty. "Until woman can protect herself, and, through her self-protection give protection to the child in whom she is by nature more interested than man, she will gain nothing of avail, nothing permanent. MADE HER SOUL REVOLT. "My soul revolted at the assembly fight, when we were struggling for the welfare of America's future sons and daughters, to have our aim thwarted." Many members of the committee working for the establishment of a federal child labor bureau, will go from here to Washington in order to be on hand at a conference with President Roosevelt Monday.569 X. Jan. 27, 1909. Mr. John K. Beach, Attorney at Law, 865 Chapel St., New Haven, Conn. My dear Mr. Beach: After you left here Mr. Davenport asked me some important questions and to which I made replies which called forth some comment from Mr. Davenport. His comment does not appear in the record, but it disclosed to me that the answers were rather unexpected and important, particularly answers to his regarding the resolutions which were adopted by the Convention in the Ro[?]leff and Berg cases. I refer to that part of the answers in which I referred to the fact of the resolution [?] declaratory that labor would not buy a product of non-union concerns, etc. I think it throws an important side- light on the matter. Then again with Mr. Davenport's consent, I undertook to re-cross-question myself, assuming that you were present and put the question to which I made answer. When you see the transcript, if you object to it I presume neither Mr. Davenport nor the Notary, Mr. Harper, would have any objection to its elimination, end of course, I have no objection to interpose. It seemed to me that I should acquaint you with these matters, for although you would see them, [it occurred to me that I] I should specifically direct your attention to them. 570 Mr. John K. Beach ----2---- With kind regards, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.Jan. 27, 1909. Z Mr. William D. Lang, Manager Berkeley Theatre New York City, N. Y. Friend Bill: I am to be in New York for a few days: on Thursday evening I am to deliver a lecture at the Germanic Hall and then I have a number of conferences during several days. I shall be quite busy and know you will be, but at any rate I would like to see you for a few minutes sometime. I will stop at the Prince George Hotel and divide my time mostly between that place and 25 Third Avenue. With best wishes, I am Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor Jan. 27, 1909 Mr. Alfred F. Jury, Immigration Agent, Dominion of Canada, Water St. Liverpool, England My dear Mr. Jury: I am quite confident you will be somewhat surprised to receive this note from me. Today our mutual friends Mr. Robert Glockling and Mr. Dougherty, President and Secretary of the Brotherhood of Bookbinders, called to see me in connection with a matter of interest to the Bookbinders, and discussing old times and friends I mentioned your name and work in the interest of labor, and we had you on the "dissecting table". I was under the impression that your were still in the Dominion when Bob told me you were Immigration agent for the Dominion with offices at Liverpool, and I expressed the desire to have the pleasure of meeting you on the occasion of my contemplated visit to Europe during the coming summer. He gave me your address and I therefore write for old times sake as well as to see whether I cannot make some arrangement with you whereby I may have the opportunity of renewing our old time acquaintance and friendship. The British trade Union Congress in 1907, through its Parlimentary Committee, extended and invitation to me to visit the Congress as a special representative of the American Labor Movement. The Convention at Norfolk, Va. that year was about to[*573*] Mr. Alfred F. Jury----2--- direct me to accept the invitation but I interposed because of the then pending presidential election in the United Stated. The invitation was repeated in 1906 and the A. F. of L. in Convention unanimously directed me to accept the invitation and to visit other European countries. I take it that the recent court proceedings are somewhat familiar to you and that you are aware I am now under "sentence to imprisonment for one year" for the alleged violation of an injunction. An appeal is being taken both in the Injunction and Contempt Cases, and after consultation with our attorneys I am advised that pending the appeal there will be no difficulty for my undertaking the trip, that is, that the final decision will not be reached before the time my return to the United States is due. It is my intention, unless something should interfere, to be in Europe either the early part or the middle of July. It may be possible that I may take the steamer landing at Liverpool, although that is not definite. In any event, I should like to hear from you in the meantime. If agreeable to you we can exchange letters and later I may be able to say something more definite. I do want to have the pleasure of meeting you. Sincerely hoping that you are in the enjoyment of good health and with the best wishes, in which Bob Glockling and Secretary Dougherty join me, I am Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*574*] M January 27, 1909. Mr. F. E. Schenck, Secretary, Label Fair Committee, 764 Carpenter St., Elmira, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th instant is received and contents noted. You say that a union label fair will be held in Elmira the latter part of March, and you desire to know whether the A. F. of L. could furnish any material to be used as part of the exhibit. I have directed that there be sent you two copies of the Union Label Bulletin; a dozen copies of the pamphlet "History of the Union Label;" and two sets of all pamphlets and literature published by this office. Now as to speakers during the fair, it is scarcely possible we could arrange for them, as we do not attempt to keep a bureau of speakers, but if you will write me again about the time of the fair, if we have any of the special organizers of the A. F. of L. located in a reasonable distance of Elmira, I will endeavor to have them visit the fair and deliver addresses. In connection with this matter let me suggest that you write to Harry Eichelberger, General Delivery, York, Pa., who I think575 F. E. S 2. can give you some valuable suggestions as to the Union Label exhibit. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*576*] M. January 27, 1909. Mr. W. A. Appleton, Secretary, General Federation of Trade Unions, 8Adelphi Terrace, Adam St., Strand, London, Eng. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that since my previous letter to you I have received the three bound copies of the annual report of the Proceedings of the British Trade Union Congress, and have forwarded one copy each to Mr. Furuseth and Mr. Creamer. With kindest regards, I am Fraternally Yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.577 M January 27, 1909. Mr. F. W. Herges, 1431 Seventh Ave., Rock Island, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant is received and contents noted. Now in regard to the matter of organizing the government employes at Rock Island, why not form a federal labour union. That would give the oppotunity for workmen for all trades and callings to become members until such time as circumstancs may warrant the formation of the A.F. of L., Mr. P. J. Carlson, 1320 Thirty-eighth St., Rock Island, Who I am sure will be glad to give you any assistance within his power. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am , Fraternally Yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*578*] M January 27, 1909. Mr. John Rothery, Organizer, Newburgh, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant is at hand and contents noted. I thank you for the clippings enclosed. In compliance with your request, I am sending you under separate cover a package of organizer's letter heads. The matter of the expenses incurred in organizing the local [?]t Walden, will be taken up with the acknowledgment of the application [?]y Secretary Morrison. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.579 M January 27, 1909. Mr. Charles Zuck, Loogootee, Martin Co., Ind. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 23rd instant is at hand, enclosing ten cents in postage, and in compliance with your request, I am sending you under separate cover copy of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.580 M January 27, 1909. Mr. Henry G. Ratz, Organizer, Box 95, Route 3, Kankakee, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request, I am sending you under separate cover a package of organizer's letter heads. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.581 M January 27, 1909. Mr. J. K. Campbell, High School Principal, Wymore City Schools, Wymore, Nebraska. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 20th instant is at hand, in which you state that the High Schools of Nebraska are to debate the question "Resolved, That disputes between capital and labor in the railroad business should be settled by Boards of Arbitration with compulsory powers," and that you are to have the negative side. Replying thereto I beg to say that the American Federation of Labor has declared in favor of voluntary arbitration, and is opposed to compulsory arbitration." It may not be amiss to call your attention to a statement which I made in an address before the Arbitration Congress held in Chicago, December 17, 1900, which is as follows: "Arbitration is only possible when voluntary. It never can be successfully carried out unless the parties to a dispute or controversy are equals, or nearly equals, in power to protect or defend themselves, or to inflict injury upon the other party." I am sending to you herein copy of this address which was published in pamphlet form. I would also suggest that if you have[*582*] J. K. C. 2. a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST that you should refer to my editorials upon this subject in the FEDERATIONIST for March, April, issues, 1901. Also if you can refer to the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you can find some helpful matter in that, as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon that subject. "Compulsory courts could not enforce their decrees" except the State would re-establish involuntary servitude; in other words, slavery. And to abolish slavery, even revolution would be justifiable. By reason of the large numbers of workmen, any notion which they might take for the purpose of evading award, would practically be a public act and render them liable under such a law. The employer on the other hand, could readily close down his plant by assigning any reason, and then re-open anew under any name or he might close down and re-organize his labor force. Either method would help him evade such a law. On the other hand, if the award was enforcible against the will of the employer, it would practically be confiscation. Then again there are other methods by which employers can evade an award, one of which was resorted to recently in New Zealand, where a Court of Arbitration decided in favor of the employes. The employer closed his plant and began ordering goods in his line from England. Whether such an employer could, at some future time, re-open his business and proceed to manufacture with other workmen upon the ground that they are not the same parties, and thus evade the award, I am not quite certain, but I have shown that there are sufficient means by which employers can evade an award.[*583*] F. K. C. 3. The wage earners are striving earnestly to obtain a living [w]age, which, when expended in the most economical manner, shall be [s]ufficient to maintain an average-sized family in a manner consistent [w]ith whatever the contemporary local civilization recognizes as indispensable to physical and mental health, or as required by the rational [s]elf-respect of human beings. That living wage changes continually [f]or what constitutes a living wage to-day may be entirely insufficient adecade hence. It may not be amiss to say that one of the chief advocates o[f] the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, who was largely ins[t]rumental in securing its enactment in that country, is a Mr. Lusk [wh]o was in the United States in 1900, and left no way untried to laud t[h]e compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, urging its adoption by t[h]e people of this country. At the same time I protested against such a law being applied to our country, and stated that it may seem to act fairly well during fair times, but the law had not been put to a test through periods of industrial depression. The same Mr. Lusk after having spent several years in Ne[w] Zealand since 1900, has since come to the United States, and publi[c]ly admitted that the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand was no[t] a success. As a matter of fact, it is an effort to pursue an un[n]atural course to meet a natural situation and condition. It would be the most unwise course for labor to pursue to advocate compulsory arbitration as a means of preventing or adjusting labor disputes. Labor wan[t]s to maintain industrial peace, but it must be with honor and jus[t]ice, and it must not conflict with natural human rights. Labor must organize and possess power and wield that power intelligently and discreetly. We want conciliation, and if necessary arbitration, but arbitration [?] entered into and it[?] [?]584 F. K. C. 4. voluntarily adhered to, but compulsory arbitration, never. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.585 January 27, 1909. M Mr. W. H. Boyle 104 Portsea St., New Haven, Conn. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 25th instant, and to thank you for the suggestions you make, which will be given his careful consideration. Very truly yours, [signature: R. Lee Guard] Sec. to President Gompers.[*586*] LF January 27, 1909 Mr. H. W. Lloyd, Organizer, 606 Charlotte St., Fredericksburg, Virginia. Dear Sir andBrother: Your undated favor is received and contents noted. You desire to know what steps you should take in regard to the charter of the suspended union. You do not state, however, to which suspended union you refer. I presume, however, that it is a local union of an international organization and if so, I would suggest that you take the matter up direct with the Secretary of the International Union. In any event let me hear from you further and believe me to be, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.587 LF January 27, 1909 Mr J. A. Madsen, Business Agent, Local #6, General Longshoremen's Union, 248 Flanders St., Portland, Oregon. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that under the laws, practices and policy of the American Federation of Labor, a charter could not be granted to any organization over the trade of which jurisdiction has already been granted to an existing national or international union, except with the full consent and approval of such organization. I again take this opportunity of urging upon the Long- shoremen of the Pacific the advisability of re-affiliating with the organization of the trade. As you know, the Longshoremen's organi- zation has recognized the decision rendered by the American Federa- tion of Labor in the case between it and the Seamen's organization and has re-adopted its old title and is now known as the Inter- national Longshoremen's Association. Again expressing the hope that the Longshoremen of the Pacific will unite with the organization of the trade, and hoping to hear from you further in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, [Signature: Samuel Gompers] President American Federation of Labor. 588 LF January 27, 1909 Mr. O. W. Perkins, President, Cigarmakers International Union, Monon Buidling, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant is received and contents noted. I also note the clipping you enclosed from the Cincinnati Post. I have several copies of this alleged interview with Judge Wright, one from the Denver Express of January 18th , and return to you herein the one from the Cincinnati Post. However, Judge Wright absolutely denies having given such an interview. Mr. Gardener, on the other hand, emphatically re-- iterates that Judge Wright did give his interview as he reported it, so it rests upon a question of veracity between Mr. Gardener and and Judge Wright. You say that Mr. Perham of the Telegraphers called your attention to the fact that upon investigation he had found that there is no law upon the statute books authorizing Federal Courts to overthrow any act passed by Congress. I fully agree with the opinion expressed by Mr. Perham and this is fully reinforced by very competent men in the legal profession. No less a person than Hon. Walter Clarke, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the state of North Carolina, has written two essays clearly demonstrating [*589*] [?]r. G. W. Perkins--2 that it was never contemplated by the Continental Congress that any court, even the Supreme Court of the United States, should have the authority to annul or declare unconstitutional, any law passed by the Congress of the United States. Chief Justice Clarke, in his study of the debates in Congress when the constitution was adopted, and the comments of participants in the Congress asserts that this very question of conferring upon the supreme Court the right of passing upon the constitutionality of the law passed by Congress, was proposed twice in the Congress and both times defeated. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:[*590*] X. Jan. 27, 1909. Mr. Chas. C. Thompson, Mr. Joseph C. Whyte, Mr. H. B. Goodrell, Trustees of Typographical Union #101, c/o Washington Herald Office, City. Dear Sirs and Brothers: The American Federation of Labor has had its Headquarters in Typographical Temple and thereby been your tenants for more than eleven years, and during that entire period our relations have been one of amity and accord. We have mutually tried to be helpful to each other. You will recall that with the extension of our work we have conferred with a view of extending our facilities in the Temple, but for almost insurmountable obstacles this was incapable of accomplishment. For several years we complained, and protests have been made by our assistants who were required to perform their [?]ork in the basements of the building. These we have also dis[?]ussed with you, but as already stated, you found it impracticable [?]y reason of the structure of the building to afford us the facili[?]ies required, as well as the rectification of the complaints re[?]rred to. Our suggestion for the enlargement of the building s[?]emed also to be impracticable. To rectify these things the conventions of t[?]e American Federation of Labor repeatedly directed the Executive Council to[*591*] Typographical Union --2-- erect an office building for the American Federation of Labor, as well as office facilities for such other labor organizations which might require them. The Executive Council, and particularly Secretary Morrison, Vice-President O'Connell and I, have given the subject very careful consideration, and we have looked at various sites, but to facilitate this project requires time and further consideration. In the meantime, we learn that by reason of an unexp[?]ted removal of several governmental offices from the Ouray Building, these offices in sufficient number have been made vacant, and we have felt it incumbent to take advantage of the opportunity now afforded or to lose it for all time, particularly up to any time when we might have our own structure completed. I ought to add that some of the considerations that prompted the authority for the construction of the A. F. of L. office building, was the fact that the American Federation of Labor has organized several departments, and contemplates the institution of others, those in existence being the Building Trades Department and the Metal Trades Department, and these various departments organized and to be organized are by direction to be accomodated in the same building with the offices of the American Federation of Labor. The purport of this all is to advise you, and I do so with genuine regret, that we will vacate our present quarters in the Typographical Temple on March 1st, 1909, thus giving you about five weeks notice. Secretary Morrison has talked the matter over with Brother Seibold, Secretary of your union, and he expressed himself of the opinion that the above notice would be agreeable to you. He is of the opinion, and it is our sincere hope, that the offices which we will vacate can now or in the near future, be utilized to[*592*] Typographical Union --3-- better financial advantage to your union. Permit me on behalf of Secretary Morrison and myself, as well as for the American Federation of Labor, to express our sincere appreciation of the courtesy which you as the Board of Trustees, as well as Secretary Seibold and Typographical Union, have always manifested toward us. With expression of best wishes for your success, I have the honor to remain, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.593 Washington, D. C., Jan. 27, 1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Vote affirmatively on propositions fourteen and nineteen. Samuel Gompers. COLLECT.[*594*] Z Jan. 28, 1909. IN REPLYING REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 4. Mr. Joseph F. Murphy, President, International Union of Elevator Constructors, 1952 North Nineteenth St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor held in this city, among the matters receiving consideration was Resolution #4 of the Denver Convention of the A. F. of L., introduced by the delegates from the International Association of Machinists in regard to the jurisdictional controversy between the two organizations, and by the Convention referred to the Executive Council. This entire subject matter was thoroughly discussed and carefully considered by the Executive Council and the following was adopted: "It was moved that President Gompers notify the officers of the International Union of Elevator Constructors to immediately withdraw all their members from all work not comprehended in the jurisdiction set forth when charter was issued to their organization; That the assembling and construction of elevators applies exclusively to the places in which the elevators are to be installed and operated. That millwright work is not contemplated or recognized as coming under the jurisdiction of the International Union of Elevator Constructors, and that any direct or indirect claim thereto must be discontinued; that no contract shall be proposed or entered into by the International Union of Elevator Constructors or any of its locals for millwright work.[*595*] Mr. Joseph F. Murphy-----2----- That the officers of the International Union of Elevator Constructors and the International Association of Machinists be invited to meet with President Gompers on February 5, 1909, to determine whether or not this decision has been complied with." Understanding from President O'Connell, of the International Association of Machinists, that it will be more convenient to your organization and equally agreeable for him for the conference to be held on Feb. 4th instead of Feb. 5th, I am writing to you and also to Mr. O'Connell to request each of you to have the representatives of your organizations meet with the undersigned at the office of the American Federation of Labor at 10:30 on Thursday morning, Feb. 4th. Trusting that you will advise me in regard to this matter, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*596*] Z Jan. 26, 1909. IN REPLYING REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 4. Mr. James O'Connell, President, International Association of Mahinists, 402-7 McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 27th Inst. in regard to the conference between the representatives of your Association and the representatives of the International Union of Elevator Constructors, as directed by the Executive Council at its meeting recenlty, I beg to enclose to you herein duplicate of letter I am today writing to President Joseph F.Murphy of the Elevator Constructors, setting the time for this conference, as you will note, for 10:30 Thursday morning, Feb. 4th, and which you will please accept as part of this communication to you. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*597*] Z. Jan. 27, 1909. No. 8. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: Your attention is caled to Resolution #49 adopted by the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor to be found on pages 174-175 of the printed official proceedings of the Denver Convention. You will observe that the Executive Council is instructed to make an investigation of the circumstances surrounding the fact that a Pressman and a Bookbinder, members of their respective International Unions, were charged with murder. It is claimed that these men acted defensively and were guilty of no crime. One of the men charged, Mr. Giffen of the Pressman's Union, has been convicted of a minor degree of homicide and sentenced to five years imprisonment. Mr. Brehm, of the Bookbinders, has not yet been tried, and in an interview with President Glockling and Secretary Dougherty of the Bookbinders, they informed me that it is likely that the case is not likely to be tried against him soon, if ever. However, the Executive Council is directed by the Resolution of the Convention to make investigation of the circumstances surrounding the case and that if the result is found to justify support and defense of these men it be given, and affiliated organizations urged to contribute to the defense fund to secure a[*598*] -----2----- fair and impartial trial for the accused. When the Executive Council was in session here we had so many matters of immediate pressing importance that it was absolutely impossible to reach this resolution. Messrs. Glockling and Dougherty say that notwithstanding the conviction of Mr. Giffen of the minor degree charged against him, yet it is unjustifiable and that the case has lost no degree of its significance by reason thereof. You will please return your vote upon the subject matter of Resolution #49 at your earliest possible convenience and oblige Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*599*] X Jan. 29, 1909. No. 7 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: The Counsel for the Buck's Stove and Range Co. petitioned Justice Wright of the Supreme Court of the District of Columbia to levy the costs of the contempt proceedings against Secretary Frank Morrison, Vice-President John Mitchell and me, and Justice Wright has awarded the claim. The sum has not yet been computed but it is estimated to be about Fifteen Hundred Dollars ($1,500). This in spite of the fact that Mitchell, Morrison and I admitted the main contentions in the complaint answering justification and our constitutionally guaranteed rights and willingness that the matter might be heard by the court occupying a day or two and with arguments. Our Counsel in opposition to the claim to have the costs of the contempt proceedings awarded against us, showed that in view of the admissions that there was no necessity for travelling all over the country taking depositions and testimony covering a period of fifty days; that there was a tremendous amount of duplication, etc., etc., in the evidence, but this d[i]d not avail, Justice Wright awarded the costs against us. Discussing this matter with our attorneys, we showed that having no means or property upon which [to] a levy could be made to execute the amount of the costs, and they advised that a[*600*] -2- be executed for the payment of the costs depending ypon the affirmance or reversal of the higher courts of the injunction and contempt proceedings. If the higher courts shall reserve the decision and sen[?]nces of the lower cou[r]t of course the award of costs will fal[?] by the board. If the higher courts shall affirm the decision the costs will have to be paid or suit be brought for the recovery and judgments hang over the heads of Mitchell, Morrison and me. As advised, the refusal to pay will mean that these judgments will be in perpetual force and would not involve imprisonment for non-payment. Our Counsel advise that the bond for the payment be executed, dependable upon the decision of the higher court. This matter is communicated to you for the information it contains, and also for your vote to approve or otherwise the giving of the bond. Please return your vote upon this matter at your earliest convenience. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. N. B. Your attention is called to the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. You will find therein the decision of Justice Wright published in full as well as a sketch of the scene in the court written by me and a review of the decision by Mitchell, Morrison and me.[*601*] LF January 28, 1909 Mr. W. A. Davis, Secretary, Central Labor Union, P. O. Box 511, Norfolk, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*602*] LF January 28, 1909 Mr. J. G. Brown, President, International Shingle Weavers' Union of America, Room #317 Labor Temple, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regard and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam.Grompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*603*] LF January 28,1909 Mr. T. B. Garrett, President, Topeka Typographical Union #121, 1523 West St., Topeka, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in my communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*604*] M January 28, 1909. Mr. Daniel J. Keefe, Commissioner-General of Immigration, Washington, D. C. Sir: Before leaving the City last evening, President Gompers directed me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of January 27, and to say to you that he is now in communication with the members of the Executive Council relative to as many of them as possible attending the conference with Secretary Straus on Wednesday morning,February 10th. Respectfully, R. Lee Guard, Sec. to President Gompers.605 X. Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. H. D. Thomas, Secretary, United Trades and Labor Council, 717 Superior Ave., N. E., Cleveland, O. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter of Mr. Wm. J. Bowen, President of the Bricklayers and Masons' International Union, in which he enclosed me copies of letters received by him. For your information I enclose copies of those letters. The originals were addressed and sent to Mr. Merrick, President of the Sheet Metal Workers, Louisville, Ky. I ask you to consider this subject matter and bring it to the attention of the United Trades and Labor Council, and to cause an investigation into this matter to be made and report to the undersigned. If you could co-operate with the Building Trades Section or Council of your city in this matter it would be preferable. In any event, I trust that I may have a report upon the subject at the earliest possible moment. Surely trade union principles, the rights and interests of the toilers, are of such transcendant importance that a letter of the character written, and all that it implies, is repugnant and destructive to these very aims and high purposes of our cause. I entertain the hope that it will be found to have been some mistake rather than it be founded upon fact. With kindest regards, I am,606 Mr. H. D. Thomas ––2–– Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*607*] COPY. BUILDING TRADES DEPARTMENT. United Trades and Labor Council Chartered by the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L. June 16, 1908. Cleveland, O., Jan. 13, 1909 Dear Sir and Bro: This council would very much like to correspond with you in regard to the status of the bricklayers in your city, and you will confer a great favor upon us by writing back to us at your earliest convenience and inform us whether: 1st- Are the Bricklayers well organized in your city? 2nd- Are they affiliated with your Building Trades Council? 3rd- Are they co-operating with the other trades in the Council? 4th- Can a Union of Bricklayers be found in your city that will be a part of the Building Trades Council and co-operate with them in an effective manner? 5th- Can you place us in immediate communication with any bricklayers in your city who are at present unorganized, or with any independent Union of Bricklayers in your City, if such exists? The above questions are asked, not from idle curiosity but with a view to place all the different crafts in the Building Trades upon an effective footing, so that we may be made stronger to resist any further encroachments upon us; or to avail ourselves of any and all opportunities that may come to build up the industry and get all the benefits that a strong and united organization is able to procure, in improved conditions and increased pay, whenever business revives or the general conditions are favorable. Any and all information that you may be able to furnish us will be gratefully received, and, if necessary, will be treated as strictly confidential. Hoping to hear from you soon, I am, Yours fraternally, (Signed) John St. Leger, Secretary, Cleveland Council Building Trades Department, 1614 Lakeside Ave., N.E.[*608*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. Wm. J. Bowen, President, Bricklayers and Masons' International Union, Odd Fellow Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th inst. with enclosures came duly to hand and contents noted. Beg to assure you that I was astonished to read the contents of the copy of the letters you enclosed. I shall cause an inquiry to be made into the subject to which you refer. Will be glad to have you write me in the course of a week or two and shall communicate to you the best information I have upon the subject. The reason I ask you to remind me is that I have so very many matters, each of which is of so great importance, that events often crowd others out of their order for attention. The American Federation of Labor has been organized to protect and defend the trade union movement and to advance the interests of the toilers thereby. The American Federation of Labor is not upon destruction bent. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*609*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary, San Francisco Labor Council, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 22d. inst., and to thank you for the opinion of your Supreme Court, which I am sure Mr. Gompers will appreciate greatly. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*610*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. R. G. Diefenderfer, 1417 S. University St., Ann Arbor, Mich. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 24th inst., and in reply I enclose to you herein list of the pamphlets published by this office. Should you desire to consult any of these in the preparation of your paper, your order will be promptly filled. I would particularly suggest that in view of the subject which you will take up, that it would be well for you to read some of Mr. Gompers' editorials published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official monthly magazine of the American Federation of Labor, particularly during the past eighteen months. You should be able to consult a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONISTS at your university. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*611*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. P. F. McCarthy, Secretary, Quarry Workers International Union, Scampini Bldg., Barre, Vermont. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your favor of the 25th inst., I beg to advise you that I have written to Vice-President Mitchell and requested him to act as the representative of the American Federation of Labor in the conference between the representatives of your organization and the Paving Cutters' Union in conformity with resolution #76 of the Denver convention. I have also requested him to write you direct in regard thereto. Of course, any arrangements satisfactory to both parties and to Mr. Mitchell will be satisfactory to this office. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.612 X. Jan. 28, 1909. WHEN REPLYING REFER TO RESOLUTION #76. Mr. John Sheret, Secretary, Paving Cutters' Union, Box 116, Albion, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your favor of the 23d. inst. , I beg to advise you that I have written to Vice-President Mitchell and requested him to act as the representative of the American Federation of Labor in the conference between the representatives of your organization and the Quarry Workers' International Union in conformity with resolution #76 of the Denver convention. I have also requested him to write you direct in regard thereto. Of course, any arrangements satisfactory to both parties and to Mr. Mitchell will be satisfactory to thisoffice. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*613*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. WHEN REPLYING REFER TO RESOLUTION #76. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor. 281 4th Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: I wrote to the secretaries of the Quarry Workers International Union of North America, and the Paving Cutters' Union in regard to the above resolution, whereupon they stated in reply that they would agree to the report of the committee, with the understanding that a representative of the Executive Council should take part in the conference. After considerable further correspondence, they have both expressed the desire that you might act in that capacity. I sincerely trust that you will be able to do so, and would request that you write direct to Mr. P. J. McCarthy, Secretary of the Quarry Workers International Union, Scampini Bldg., Barre, Vermont, and to Mr. John Sheret, Secretary ofthe Paving Cutters' Union, Box 116, Albion, N. Y., also advise me in regard thereto. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*614*] X. Jan. 27, 1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, President, International Union Cigar Makers', Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find copy of a letter which I have just written to Mr. Eugene Clifford, and which you will kindly accept as equally addressed to yourself. I desire to discuss with Mr. Clifford the matter of the union label digest, its preparation, compilation, etc. As indicated, I hope to have the pleasure of being with you on February 12th. Of course, if the services are to be held in the evening, it would be better that conference with Mr. Clifford be had during some part of the day. I know you will make arrangements with him that will best conform to my other engagements a nd convenience. With kindest regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Grompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*615*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. Eugene Clifford, Attorney at Law, c/o Mr. G. W. Perkins, Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: I have had some correspondence and conversation with Mr. G. W. Perkins, President of the Cigar Makers' International Union, relative to the subject matter of the preparation and printing of a Digest of Union Label laws, decisions, practices, etc. You will have the subject in mind by my mere reference to it, for I understand Mr. Perkins has consulted with you upon it. I beg to say that I desire to have the opportunity of going over this matter with you at an early date. I expect to be in Chicago February 12th in connection with the celebration of the centennial of Lincoln's Birthday, and shall be pleased to have the opportunity of talking with you at an hour on that day convenient to us both, after my attendance at the hall where the services are to be held. Mr. Perkins will know my engagements and any arrangement which you make with him will be agreeable to me for that day. Anticipating the opportunity of meeting you soon, with kind regards, I am, Yours very truly, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*616*] X. Jan. 27, 1909. [?]rs. Mary Burke East, 424 Law Building, Indianapolis, Ind. [?]y dear Mrs. East: It is more than kind in you to send Mr. Gompers the two [?]ddresses delivered by visitors to the twentieth annual convention of United Mine Works District #6, held January 12-16, in Columbus, Ohio, and to say further that you are now reporting the International [?]onvention of Mine Workers and that you will send him from time to [?]ime anything which you think will be of interest to him. He appre[?]iates very much indeed the courtesy you have shown from time to [?]ime in sending such matters to him. Everything of the kind is of [?]ssistance. Times have been and are very strenuous, and of course Mr. [?]ompers is pretty well tired out, but we are in the fight to a finish. Do you expect to come East any time in the next few months? [?]f course, if on any of your trips you come this way, we shall ex[?]ect you to look us up. With kindest regards, in which Mr. Gompers joins, I am, Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*617*] X. Jan. 27, 1909. Mr. Ernest Bohm, Secretary, Central Federated Union, 184 Eldridge St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to your two letters of recent date in regard tothe preambles and resolutions adopted by the Central Federated Un[?]on and which you desire end[o]rsed by the American Federation of La[?]or, I desire to advise you that the matter has been submitted to t[?]e Executive Council and you will be advised as soon as conclusion isreached. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*618*] X. Jan. 27, 19 09. Mr. A. E. Ireland, Member, Executive Board, International Association of Machinists, 731 Hazlewood Ave., Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 26th inst. to hand and contents noted. Inreply I beg to say that I am leaving the city tomorrow for an ab[?]ence of some days on official business, but expect to return he[?]re Monday or Tuesday of next week, and will be glad to see you when you are here. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*619*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Buren Defense Conference, 320 Broadway, New York City. [?]entlemen: In connection with the resolution adopted by the Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor, the Executive Council held an interview with the President of the United States upon the extradition of Jan Pouren. I enclose to you herein a copy of the letter submitted to the President at the time of our interview, and the memoranda accompanying it in the above cases. A discussion of fully an hour ensued. I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the President, of which the enclosed is a copy, and also a copy of a letter written by Secretary of State, Elihu Root. It is my purpose to be of the very best assistance possible to aid in the accomplishment of the purpose of the resolutions of the convention, and if you can suggest any matter in connection therewith it will be greatly appreciated and in so far as lies in my power acted upon promptly. Sincerely hoping for success in the cause, I am, Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*620*] X. Jan. 26, 1909. Mr. J. Mahlon Barnes, Delegate, Denver Convention, from the Cigar Makers' International Union, 180 Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In connection with the resolution adopted by the Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor, the Executive Council had an interview with the President of the United States upon the extradition of Ricardo Flores Magon, Antonio I. Villarreal, Librado Rivera, and Manuel Sarabia, I enclose to you herein a copy of the letter submitted to the President at the time of our interview, and the memoranda accompanying it in the above cases. A discussion of fully an hour ensued. I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the President, [i]of which the enclosed is a copy, and also a copy of a letter written by Secretary of State, Elihu Root. It is my purpose to be of the very best assistance possible to aid in the accomplishment of the purpose of the resolutions of the convention, and if you can suggest any matter in connection therewith it will be greatly appreciated and in so far as lies in my power acted upon promptly. Sincerely hoping for success in the cause, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.[*621*] Washington, D. C., Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. C. W. Woodman, Union Banner, Ft. Worth, Tex. Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver. Refused to discontinue litigation before the courts. Refused to accept the bank designated for the funds. Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement. The Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers, of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support. [COLLECT.)] Charge A. F. of L. SAMUEL GOMPERS.[*622*] Z Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. T. C. Parsons, Member, Committee, Union Label Conference, 423 G St., N. W., City. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to enclose to you herein copy of the minutes of the union label conference held at the offices of the American Fe[?]eration of Labor on Jan. 22-23, the minutes having been submi[?]ted to me by Mr. C. L. Baine, who acted as chairman of the confe[?]ence. The resolutions adopted by this conference will rece[?]ve prompt attention. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*623*] Z Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. Martin Lawlor, Member, Committee, Union Label Conference, 11 Waverly Place, Room 15, New York, N. Y. [?]ear Sir and Brother: I beg to enclose to you herein copy of the minutes of the union label conference held at the offices of the American Federation of Labor on Jan. 22-23, the minutes having been sub[?]itted to me by Mr. C. L. Baine, who acted as chairman of the conference. The resolutions adopted by the conference will receive prompt attention. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*624*] Z Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. F. G. Hopp, Member, Committee, Union Label Conference, Room 820, Monon Block, Chicago, Ill. Der Sir and Brother: I beg to enclose to you herein copy of the minutes of the union label conference held at the offices of the American Fe[?]eration of Labor on Jan. 22-23, the minutes having been submitted to me by Mr. C. L. Baine, who acted as chairman of the conference. The resolutions adopted by this conference will receive prompt attention. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*625*] Z Jan. 28, 1909. M. C. L. Baine, Secretary, Union Label Conference, , 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of Jan. 25th, [?]n which you enclose the minutes of the union label conference [?]eld in this city Jan. 22-23. I am transmitting copies of the minutes to the other gentlemen who participated in the conference. The various subject matters which were decided by the conference will be given prompt attention. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*626*] Z Jan. 28, 1909. [?]r. Philip Davis, Supervisor of Licensed Minors, Boston School Committee, 112 Salem St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to enclose to you herein the letter written by Secretary Straus to Mr. How which you left here for him. Mr. Gompers also directs me to advise you that a conference of the representatives of wage earners with Secretary Straus will be held at a very early date and that any data relative to the problem of the unemployed workers which you promised to furnish him will be appreciated. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard, Secretary to Pres. Gompers.627 X. Jan. 28,1909. Mr. J. Mahlon Barnes, Delegate, Denver Convention, from the Cigar Makers' International Union, 180 Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Der Sir: In reference to President Gompers' letter of even date, beg to say that the letter submitted to the President of the United States with the data on the refugee cases, will be mailed to you by later mail. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*628*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Po[?]ren Defense Conference, 320 Broadway, New York City. Ge[?]tlemen: In reference to President Gompers' letter of even date, bg to say that the letter submitted to the President of the United Sates with the data on the case of Jan Pouren will be mailed to you by later mail. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*629*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. D. D'Allesandro, President, International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers Union, 410-412 East Market St., Elmira, New York. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 27th inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to suggest that you do not come to Washington to see Mr. Gompers until Tuesday, February 2d. Mr. Gompers is now in New York and while he expects to return here some time during the day Monday, yet he was not positive when he went away that he would be able to get here. Thus far he has no special engagements here until the fourth of February, and I therefore think that you could see him either on the second or third. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard, Secretary to President Gompers.[*630*] X . Jan. 28, 1909. M. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. [?]y dear Mr. Pierce: I am returning to you by express the Lincoln half-tone and I again thank you in Mr. Gompers' name for your courtesy. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard, Secretary to President Gompers.[*631*] X. Jan. 28, 1909. Mr. James H. Barry, 1122-24 Mission St., San Francisco, Cal. My dear Mr. Barry: In continuation of my letter to you of recent date, I beg to say that I am sending you under separate cover one of Mr. Go[?]pers' photographs. I waited until we got new ones from the photographer here, but they were not at all good and therefore I am sending you one which he had taken in Porto Rico some years ago while he was there. I hope you will like it. I myself think it is a very good one. With kindest regards, in which I am sure Mr. Gompers would join if he were in the city, I am, Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*632*] Z Feb. 1, 1[?]. No. 10. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: In conformity with the action of the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor, the undersigned invited five union label organizations to direct their respective representatives to meet in conference with him at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor on Jan. 22nd. The conference was held on that date and there were given attention to several matters which the Denver Convention directed should be submitted to this union label conference together with w[?] [?] [?]tter [?]ferr[?] to it by [?] at the last meeting of the Executive Council. However, the matter in connection with this conference to which the attention of the Executive Council is particularly directed are the preambles and resolutions adopted by the conference requesting the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to render all possible assistance to the United Hatters of North America in the controversy in which the members of that organization are now engaged with the National Association of Hat Manufacturers, with which the members of the Executive Council are familiar. I trust the members of the Exe[?]tive Council will [?]dvise me as to what their wishes are in this matter. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Pres[?]ent, American F[?]ation of Labor.633 M January 28, 1909. Mr. Max Morris, Secretary, Retail Clerks' International Protective Association, 315 Appel Bldg., Denver, Col. Dear Sir and Brother: You have already received copy of the circular appeal dated January 18, signed by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, addressed to organized labor, its friends and sympathizers, calling for funds for the defense of the appeal in the pending injunction proceedings against the American Federation of Labor. Copy of this appeal has been mailed to the secretaries of the local unions of all affiliated national and international unions. It has been suggested by the officers of a few international unions that it would be better if the international unions would print on the appeal the endorsement of their respective organizations at the same time urgently requesting their members to respond, and they themselves send the appeal direct to their local unions. The opinion has been expressed that such a course would bring very material returns, more so than by the appeal if sent by this office direct. If you think favorably of this suggestion I should be pleased to hear from you in regard thereto. Trusting that I may hear from you at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President A. F. of L.634 The above letter sent to the following organizations. Jacob Fischer – Secretary Barbers. Charles N. Glover – Secretary Blacksmiths. W. J. Gilthorpe – Secretary Boilermakers. James W. Dougherty Secretary Bookbinders. C. L. Baine – Secretary Boot and Shoe Workers. J. J. McNamara – Secretary Bridge and Structural Iron Workers. Frank Duffy – Secretary United Brotherhood of Carpenters. Thomas Atkinson – Secretary Amal Society of Carpenters. John H. Brinkman – Secretary Carriage and Wagon Workers. George W. Perkins – Secretary Cigarmakers. Max Morris – Secretary Retail Clerks. Wesley Russell– Secretary Commercial Telegraphers. James A. Cable – Secretary Coopers. Peter W. Collins – Secretary Electrical Workers. William Young – Secretary Elevator Constructors. R. A. McKee – Secretary Steam Engineers. C. L. Shamp – Secretary Firemen – Stationary. W. F. Costello – Secretary Steam and Hot Water Fitters. B. A. Larger – Secretary Garment Workers. Martin Lawlor – Secretary Hatters. Roady Kenehan – Secretary Horseshoers. Jere L. Sullivan – Secretary Hotel and Restaurant Employes. John J. Manning – Secretary Int'l Shirt, Waist and Laundry Workers. John J. Joyce – Secretary Longshoremen. George Preston – Secretary Machinists. S. J. Pegg – Secretary Maintenance of Way. Chas. R. Atherton – Secretary Metal Polishers. John E Bray – Secretary Sheet Metal Workers. E. J. Denney – Secretary Iron Molders. Owen Miller – Secretary Musicians. J. C. Skemp – Secretary Painters. James Wilson – Secretary Pattern Makers. T. L. Mahan – Secretary Plate Printers. Joseph McIlveen – Secretary Plasterers. John M. Love – Secretary Plumbers. Patrick McMillen – Secretary Printing Pressmen. L. W. Quick, Secretary Telegraphers. Wm. H. Frazier– Secretary Seamen Lee M. Hartt – Secretary Stage Employes. M. R. Welch – Secretary Switchmen. Thomas L. Hughes – Secretary Teamsters. Albert Hibbert – Secretary Textile Workers. E. Lewis Evans – Secretary Tobacco Workers. J. F. Bramwood – Secretary Typographical 635 X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Geo. Schmidt, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, Quincy, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*636*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Thos. H. Palmer, Secretary, International Union of Slate Workers, Pen Arg[h]yl, Pa.. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 26th inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that we mailed copy of the appeal to the local unions of all the affiliated international organizations, the Slate Workers included. Find extra copy enclosed. I want to express my appreciation to you of the action taken by your Executive Board in appropriating $25. to the fund to defend the court proceedings in the injunction case. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*637*] X. Feb. 21, 1909. Mr. J. S. Davis, Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22d inst. received and contents noted. You desire to know how labor strikes are settled at present in this country. In reply I would say that in some instances they are settled through the means of voluntary arbitration, then again by means of agreements mutually entered into between the contending parties. I beg to say that the American Federation of Labor has declared in favor of voluntary arbitration and is opposed to compulsory arbitration. It may not be amiss to call your attention to a statement which I made in an address before the Arbitration Congress held in Chicago, December 17, 1900, which is as follows: "Arbitration is only possible when voluntary. It never can be successfully carried out unless the parties to a dispute or controversy are equals, or nearly equals, in power to protect or defend themselves, or to inflict injury upon the other party." I am sending to you herein copy of this address which was published in pamphlet form. I would also suggest that if you have a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST that you should refer to my editorials upon this subject in the Federationist for March, April, issues, 1901. Also if you can refer to the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July, 1902, you can find[*638*] Mr. J. B. Davis --2-- some helpful matter in that, as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon that subject. "Compulsory courts could not enforce their decrees" except the State would re-establish involuntary servitude; in other words, the State would re-establish slavery. And to abolish slavery, even revolution would be justifiable. By reason of the large numbers of workmen, any action which they might take for the purpose of evading award, would practically be a public act and render them liable under such a law. The employer on the other hand, could readily close down his plant by assigning any reason, and then re-open anew under any name or he might close down and "re-organize" his labor force. Either method would help him evade such a law. On the other hand, if the award was enforcible against the will of the employer, it would practically be confiscation. Then again there are other methods by which employers can evade an award, one of which was resorted to recently in New Zealand, where a Court of Arbitration decided in favor of the employes. The employer closed his plant and began ordering goods in his line from England. Whether such an employer could, at some future time, re-open his business and proceed to manufacture with other workmen upon the ground that they are not the same parties, and thus evade the award, I am not quite certain, but I have shown that there are sufficient means by which employers can evade an award. The wage earners are earnestly striv[e]ing to obtain a living wage, which, when expended in the most economical manner, shall be sufficient to maintain an average-sized family in a manner consistent with whatever the contemporary local civilization recognizes as indispensable to physical and mental health, or as required by the rational self-respect of human beings. That living wage changes[*639*] Mr. J. B. Davis --3-- insufficient a decade hence. It may not be amiss to say that one of the chief advocates of the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, who was largely instrumental in securing its enactment in that country, is a Mr. Lusk, who was in the United States in 1900, and left no way untried to laud the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, urging its adoption by the people of this country. At that time I protested against such a law being applied to our country, and stated that it may seem to act fairly well during fair times, but the law had not been put to a test through periods of industrial depression. The same Mr. Lusk, after having spent several years in New Zealand since 1900, came to the United States a few months ago, and has since publicly admitted that the compulsory arbitration ;aw of New Zealand was not a success. As a matter of fact, it is an effort to pursue an unnatural course to meet a natural situation and condition. It would be the most unwise course for labor to pursue to advocate compulsory arbitration as a means of preventing or adjusting labor disputes. Labor wants to maintain industrial peace, but it must be with honor and justice, and it must not conflict with natural human rights. Labor must organize and possess power and wield that power intelligently and discreetly. We want consiliation, and if necessary arbitration, but arbitration voluntarily entered into and its terms and awards voluntarily adhered to, but compulsory arbitration, never. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*640*] X. Jan 29, 1909. Mr. Marcel Wille, Business Agent, Local 24, Bakery and Confectionery Workers, 1791 Mission St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 22d. inst. and clippings in regard to the recent decision of Judge Seawell of San Francisco. Permit me to thank you for the above and if anything further of special interest should appear I am sure Mr. Gompers will be glad to receive copies. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.641 X. Jan. 29, 190 9. Mr. Francis M. Riedal, Secretary, The Gutenberg Club, 1113 Arch St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor addressed to President Gompers was received by him last evening just befire he left the city on official business. As he was therefore unable to write to you personally, he directed me to acknowledge receipt of your communication and to assure you of his appreciation of his election to honorary membership in the Gutenberg Club. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*6428*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Harry S. McCartney, 145 La Salle Street, Chicago, Ill. My dear Mr. McCartney: Your favor of the 26th inst. received and contents noted. I indeed regret that you have been called upon to undergo anything so severe as an attack of typhoid, but it is gratifying to learn that you are now well on the road to recovery. I sincerely trust that in the near future you [i]will have sufficiently recovered to visit Washington [and]xxx when we can have the opportunity for that promised lunch at Harvey's. I would like for you to notify me a little in advance of the time of your coming to the city, for I should indeed be disappointed were I to fail to see you. I am sending you under separate cover copy of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST in which I have published in full the decision rendered by Justice Wright sentencing Vice-President Mitchell, Secretary Morrison and me to nine, six, and twelve months, respectively, in the district jail, and my editorial review of the decision. I think you will find it interesting. With assurances of my high regard, and hoping to hear from you again at you convenience, I am,[*643*] Mr. Harry S. McCartney --2-- Cordially yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*644*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Thos. H. Palmer, Secretary, International Union of Slate Workers, Pen Argyl, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your favor of the 27th inst., I beg to say that I am sending to you under separate cover one of my photographs which you will please accept with my sincere good wishes. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.645 X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. H. L. Fagin, Vice-President, Union Life Insurance Company, Victor Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 25th inst., and to thank you for [d]calling to his attention the article in the St. Louis Mirror under date of Jan. 25th entitled "Labor here and in Great Britain". We have sent for the magazine and he will be glad to have the opportunity of reading the article. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard, Secretary to President Gompers.[*64[?]*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Theodore Presser, Music Publisher and Importer, 1712 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 27th inst. received and contents noted. Now, in regard to the copyright bill, I beg to say that the Congressional Committee failed to agree upon the bill and decided not to report it to Congress. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*647*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Miss Alice Henry, Office Secretary, The Women's Trade Union League, 275 La Salle St., Rm. 503, Chicago, Ill. My dear Miss Henry: Your favor of the 21st inst. is received and contents noted. I did misunderstand your previous letter, for I thought it was a picture of Mr. Gompers for which you asked. However, since the receipt of your letter, Mrs. Gompers has sent Mrs. Robins one of her photographs which I trust has been promptly received. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*648*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Samuel H. Ranck, Librarian, The Grand Rapids Public Library, Ryerson Library Bldg., Grand Rapid, Mich. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 23d. inst. to hand and contents noted. I a[?] sending you under separate cover paper bound copy of the procee[?]ings of the Denver Convention. It will be better [o]for you to write us at the beginning of each year for a copy of the proceedings, as in the multiplicity of matters constantly arising it might slip our attention. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*649*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Dr. J. Leonard Levy, 1526 Denniston Ave., E. E., Pittsburg, Pa. My dear sir: Your favor of the 21st inst. is received and contents noted. I have not lost sight of my promise to deliver an address for you some time in the early part of this year, but in view of the complications arising out of the injunction proceedings against the American Federation of Labor, its officers, affiliated organizations, their members, friends and sympathizers, and the contempt proceedings against Vice President Mitchell, Secretary Morrison and myself, I find it impossible now to give you any definite promise as to when I could undertake the address. I am really anxious to comply with your request and hope I may yet be able to do so, but at present it does not appear that I can at any time in the near future. Very sincerely yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*650*] X. Jan 29, 1909. Mr. Launcelot Packer, Attorney at Law, 1522 K St., N. W., Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Packer: I phoned to you several days ago to your club that the papers were ready for you, but I presume the man who took the message failed to deliver it. I enclose your original bills on Workmen's Compensation, and also two copies of each. President Gompers is out of the city, but when he returns he said that he wanted to see you further in regard to the Employers' Liability Bill. I will let you know later in regard to that. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.651 Z Jan. 29, 1909 Mr. William M. French, Financial Secretary, The Trade Union League, 115 Belleview Ave., Atlantic City, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 27th Inst. and to thank you for the information contained therein concerning the work you are doing in Atlantic City. I am especially interested in such matters. I have taken the matter up with the Editor of the "Evening Union", as per your request, sending him some of the literature issued by this office. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*652*] Z Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. J. G. Brown, President, International Shingle Weavers' Union of America, Room 317, Labor Temple, Seattle, Washn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd Inst. received and contents noted. I have also read the preambles and resolutions you enclose, adopted by the Seventh Annual Convention of your International Union bearing upon the matter of extraditing political refugees in this country, and particularly referring to Jan. Pouren of Russia. In connection with this matter I beg to call your attention to the fact that in conformity with the resolution adopted by the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor, the Executive Council during its meeting in this city Jan. 11th-16th, had an interview with the President of the United States upon the extradition of Ricardo Flores Magon, Antonio I. Villarreal, Librado Rivera, and Manual Sarabia. I enclose to you herein copy of the memoranda which we submitted to the President in this case. A discussion of fully an hour ensued. I am in receipt of a letter from the secretary of the President, of which the enclosed is a copy, and also copy of a letter written by the Secretary of State, Elihu Root. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of L.[*653*] Z Jan. 29, 1909. Editor, Evening Union, Atlantic City, N. J. Dear Sir: In a letter just received from the Secretary of the Trade Union League of Atlantic City, he advises me that you have expressed a desire to be put in touch with labor publications throughout the country, therefore, I beg to say that I have taken the liberty of placing the "Evening Union" upon our exchange list and would be glad to have you reciprocate. I have directed that copy of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST be sent to you under separate cover. In this issue I have published in full the decision pronounced by Justice Wright sentencing Vice-President Mitchell, Secretary Morrison and me to nine months, six months and one year in jail, respectively, and have also published my review of the decision. Enclosed you will find a list of the official trade journals and labor press. I am sure any of these would be glad to place your paper upon the exchange list if you should so desire. I have also directed that a package of some of the literature published by this office be sent you. You may find it of interest. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*654*] Z Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Fredrick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York, N. Y. My dear Mr. Pierce: Yours of the 28th is received in which you say that you will probably arrange to come to see Mr. Gompers between the first and 7th of February. In addition to Mr. Gompers' engagements indicated in my previous latter, I desire to say that since he left for New York I have made an engagement for him on the 4th which I imagine will take the better part of the day. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*655*] Z Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. John F. McNamee, Editor and Manager, Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen's Magazine, 806-7 Traction Terminal Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir: In the absene of President Gompers, and replying to your favor of the 27th Inst., I beg to say that I am sending to you under separate cover three copies of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, in which are published Justice Wright's decision in full and also an editorial review of the decision by President Gompers. The package is marked "personal" so that it may not fail to be brought to your attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*656*] Z Jan. 29,1909 Mr. Cornelius Ford, President, New Jersey Federation of Labor, 728 Willow Ave., Hoboken, N. J. Dear Sir: On Dec. 8th, you will recall, you wrote to President Gompers as follows: "The last convention of the New Jersey Federation of Labor authorizes the drafting of a measure to be introduced at the next session of the legislature which meets at Trenton in January. In a few days I will be in receipt of a report from a sub-committee of the Federation covering prison labor, as soon as I receive same, will immediately forward same to you." If you can give him any further information in regard to this matter he would appreciate your early reply. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.657 Z Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. T. V. O'Connor, President, International Longshoremen's Association, Elks' Temple, Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 27th Inst. transmitting a copy of a Resolution passed at the annual convention of the Licensed Tugmen's Protective Association. In Mr. Gompers' name, please accept thanks for the same, which I am sure will be appreciated by him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*658*] Z Jan. 29, 1909 Mr. James Duncan, Vice-President, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of Jan. 22nd, in which you refer to Mr. James M. Cumming, 45 Morton St., New York, N. Y. and the desire he has expressed to act as organizer for the American Federation of Labor. As suggested by you, this matter will be placed on file with other letters of a similar character for Mr. Gompers' consideration when the funds of the Federation admit of the appointment of additional organizers. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*659*] Z Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Max Hayes, %Cleveland Citizen, Cleveland, O. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 25th Inst., with which you enclose clipping of a newspaper article concerning an interview with Justice Wright. Permit me to thank you for sending same. I am sure Mr. Gompers will be pleased to receive it. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*660*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mrs. Em[?] F. Langdon, 1395 Lowell Boulevard, Denver, Colo. My dear madam: President Gompers received your letter dated January 16th just before leaving the city on official business, and directed me to acknowledge its receipt and to say to you that he was very p[?]eased to hear from you and hopes to be able to write you persona[?]ly at a later date. In the meantime, in conformity with his further instructions, I am sending you under separate cover several copies of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, one discussing the article you specially r[?]quest and the others containing editorials and other matter relating to the recent court proceedings and the injunction case and ensuing contempt proceedings. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*661*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. E. P. Hawley, President, Columbus Federation of Labor, 53 May Ave., Columbus, O. D[e]ar Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, permit me to ac[k]nowledge receipt of your favor of the 26th inst. which will be [b]rought to his personal attention as soon as possible. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.662 X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. John Coleman, Business Agent, United Trades and Labor Council, 215 Law Exchange, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other fr[?]ends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have al[?]o written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to ea[?]h one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that isin my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement ofyour message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent me, I believe I am rught insaying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are wi[?]h John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in th[?] effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle ofjustice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the free- do[?] of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the pr[?]nciples for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will berestored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our peo- pl[?], the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the estab- lihment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, youwill realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with thi[?] subject in this communication. With kindregards and impressing upon you and all our fri[?]nds, the necessi[y]ty of the time to more closely h[w]ew to the line, to [?]evote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*663*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Harry H. Freer, Secretary, Local #211, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 6 Church St., Atlantic City, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 26th inst. received and contents noted. I beg to say that at the meeting of the Executive Council held in this city January 11-16, the entire subject matter of the Electrical Workers was taken up, the representatives of both sides being in attendance. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.664 X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. William Nuilly, Managing Editor, The Call, 442 Pearl St., New York City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and replying to your favor of the 23d. inst., in which you make several inquiries in regard to industrial education and the attitude of the trade unions toward that movement, I beg to refer you to the official proceedings of the Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor, on pages 98 and 234 which gives the report of the action of that convention upon this subject. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.665 X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Henry M. Walker, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Fort Smith, Arkansas. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 23d. instant, and the accompanying copy of the Franklin Child L[b]abor Bill. Same will be brought to Mr. Gompers' attention at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.666 X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Chas. E. West, 602 E. Congress Street, Detroit, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 23d. inst. is received and contents noted. You ask me to advise you whether you would be entitled to any disability benefit from your organization, at the same time giving the details of such membership and the grounds upon which you base your claim for disability benefit. You fail to say, however, of which organization you are a member, but in any event, the en- tire matter is one which should be acted upon by the officers of your international organization and not by the officers of the Amer- ican Federation of Labor. All such matters are acted upon by the officers of the international or national organizations of the sev- eral trades, and not by the officers of the American Federation of Labor. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*667*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Geo. H. Phelps, Findlay, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of Jan. 16th duly received, but as President Gompers was on the witness stand in the Danbury Hatters' case when your letter was received, he was unable at tha t time to make personal reply. He was then called out of the city on official business, and is now absent, and hence this acknowledgement of your letter until such time as he can give it his personal attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*668*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. John A. Dyche, Secretary-Treasurer, International Ladies' Garment Workers Union, 25-27 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 27th inst., which will be brought to Mr. Gompers' attention as soon as possible. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.669 Z Jan. 30, 1909. Mr. Lee Leonard, Secretary, United Mine Workers' Local #2630, %Mr. William Scaife, 1116 State Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I make this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, [?] are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will ne restored, maintained and permanent[l]y guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconveniene or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.670 Z Jan, 30, 1909. Mr. W. H. Lymburn, Com., Odensburg Trades and Labor Council, 19 Washington St., Odensburg, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this ack- nowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am ri[g]ht in saying that the great mass [l]of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstance, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Vederation of Labor.671 Z Jan. 30. 1909. Mr. E. R. Williams, Secretary, Typographical Union No. 320, 202 South Centre St., Pottsville, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledge-ment of your message and to say to you that from the many communi-cations of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to main- tain the principle of justice and right and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of t[h]e press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Re- public. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing [t]upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift. I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*672*] Z Jan. 30, 1909. Mr. Austin P Kavenez, Secretary, 359 Charles St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 17th Inst., I beg to advise that we have no record of receiving the price of a year's subscription for the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST from the Treasurer of the Waltham C. L. U. to be sent to the Waltham Public Library. In reply to your question as to the last money received for the Waltham C. L. U., the last payment was received May 25, 1908 to the amount of $2.50, paying the dues for November and December, 1907 and January, 1908. The C. L. U. owes dues from February, 1908. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.673 Z Jan. 30, 1909. Mr. John F. McNamee, Editor, Brotherhood of Locomotive Fireman and Enginemen's Magazine, 806-807 Traction Terminal Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 27th Inst., in which you advise you have not received the copy of the December, 1907, issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, I beg to advise that I am sending you today under separate cover another copy. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*674*] Z Jan. 30, 1909. Mr. J. J. Hurley, Organizer, Box 1090, Lebanon, N. H. Dear Sir and Brother: In compliance with the request contained in your favor of the 26th Inst., I enclose herewith copy of the pass word. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.675 Z Jan. 30, 1909. Mr. H. L. Howell, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Assembly, Box 517, Tampa, Fla. Dear Sir and Brother: The following letter was received by me under date of Jan. 28th. It is self-explanatory: Local Union #111, Journeyman Plumbers, etc. Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres. American Federation of Labor. Dear Sir: At a regular meeting of our Union held this evening it was voted that this local go on record as being opposed to the President of the Central Trades and Labor Assembly of this City inasmuch as Mr. Waters, the President of the Assembly, does not work at his trade nor has he done so for the last three years, but is the proprietor of a grocery business here in our City. At the State Federation held in Palatka this week, Mr. Waters on the floor of the Convention made the statement that he was proud to say that he did not, or did not have to work at his trade, and also that he paid the per capita tac of his whole local for the past year to keep the charter. Respectfully, (Signed) E. C. Bar[r]es, Acting Pres. " J. E. Smith, Sec. L. III P. S. Mr. Waters' trade is that of a firemen as he was a member of the local fire department here when they got their charter about three years ago, which again we contend is no trade." Kindly let me have any information on this matter that is in your possession. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Pres., A. F. of L.676 Z Jan. 30, 1909. Mr. O. W. Newell, Medical Lake, Washn. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your poem entitled "The Prisoner", which you submit for publication in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. It will be brought to Mr. Gompers' attention upon his return and you will be further advised. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*677*] Z Jan. 30, 1909. Mr. J. C. Shanessy, Secretary, Local 102, Journeymen Barbers' Int'l Union of America, 810 Olive St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 27th Inst., enclosing some information from the American Anti-Boycott Association, and to thank you for sending the same. Mr. Gompers, I am sure, will be glad to receive it. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.678 Z Jan. 30, 1909 Mr. Frank Barr, Secretary-Treasurer, Central Trades Council, 614 S. Race St., Marion, Ind Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, who is away on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 26th Inst., advising that at a regular meeting of the Central Trades Council it was voted to "Refuse to comply with the request to unseat the Flint Glass Workers." Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*679*] LF January 27, 1909. Mr. William Figolah, Secretary, Amal. Glass Workers Assn., 55 North Clark St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: By direction of the conventions of the American Federation of Labor, several meetings were held and a committee of five appointed, representing international unions issuing union labels. The last meeting was held at this office January 22-23. Several matters were under consideration and action partially taken thereon. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor had under consideration and recommended to the Committee the following preamble and resolutions: "WHEREAS, Under the present method of each label organization pursuing its own way without cooperation with other organizations and without system, confusion follows and necessarily the best results are not secured; therefore be it RESOLVED, That in order to establish cohesion and cooperation and systemization among the various label organizations affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, the President of the, A. F. of L. be and hereby is instructed to invite the Executive officers of the various label organizations to attend a conference in the city of Washington at the earliest date practicable, to consider the formation of a label department of the American Federation of Labor and to devise means for the economical, effective and comprehensive distribution of products bearing the union label; the expense of such department to be borne by each label organization in proportion to its membership. And be it further RESOLVED, That the President of the A. F. of L. be authorized to invite such members of the Executive Council as he may deem necessary to participate in the conference above mentioned."[*680*] -2- The Committee consisted of Samuel Gompers, representing the American Federation of Labor, T. C. Parsons, representing the Typographical Union, Martin Lawlor, representing the United Hatters of North America, F. G. Hopp, representing the Cigar Makers' International Union, and C. L. Baine, representing the Boot and Shoe Workers' International Union. The Committee, consisting of the above named persons, having the preamble and resolutions under consideration, adopted the following: "WHEREAS, it being the opinion of the Union Label Conference Committee that the scope and purpose of the union label embraces such a large field and affects so many different trades and interests, we deem it of the utmost importance that as representative a gathering as it is possible to secure from trades using union labels should be assembled as early as practicable to devise ways and means for the advancement of the labels interests; therefore be it RESOLVED, That this Committee endorse the above resolution of the A. F. of L. Executive Council inviting the executive officers of the various label organizations to attend a conference in Washington "to consider the formation of a label department of the A. F. of L.," etc. RESOLVED, further, That all suggestions and documents bearing upon the use of union labels which have been presented to this Committee be referred to the proposed conference of executive officers of label organizations for their consideration." The Committee further agreed that the undersigned should officially notify, and I do so now notify and invite, representatives from your and all organizations issuing union labels; stamps or cards, to meet at 423-425 G St. N. W., Washington, D. C., at ten o'clock, Wednesday morning, March 3rd, 1909, and there take under consideration not only the subjects matter considered by a committee but the further subject of the formation of a681 -3- UNION LABEL DEPARTMENT OF THE AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, And to advice you further that it is urged that each organization in sending delegates to this conference March 3rd, duly credential their representatives, and that NOT MORE THAN THREE such delegates shall be entitled to a seat in the conference or convention. Sincerely hoping that every organization issuing a union label, union stamp, or union card, will be represented at this conference, March 3rd, that it may tend to greatly further the interests of our fellow workers by more systematic and comprehensive agitation for union label products, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*682*] The attached letter was sent to the following international unions, January 27th, 1909: Actors Bakery & Confectionery Workers Barbers Blacksmiths Boiler Makers Boot and Shoe Workers Brewery Workmen Brick, Tile etc. Broom Makers Brush Makers Carriage & Wagon Workers Carvers, Wood. Cigarmakers Clerks' Retail Cloth, Hat and Cap Makers Coopers' Electrical Workers U. B. of Carpenters Engineers, Steam Engravers, Watch Case Firemen, Stationery Flour & Cereal Mill Employes Fur Workers Garment Workers, United Garment Workers, Ladies Glass Workers, Amal. Glove Workers Gold Beaters Grinders, Pocket Knife Blade Hatters Horse-Shoers Hotel & Restaurant Employes Jewelry Workers Lathers, Wood, Wire and Metal Laundry Workers Leather Workers, Amal. Machine Printers Machinists Marble Workers Meat Cutters & Butcher Workmen Metal Polishers Metal Workers, Sheet Molders, Iron Musicians Painters, Decorators Paper Makers Plate Printers, Steel and Copper Photo-Engravers Piano & Organ Workers Powder & High Explosive Workers Print Cutters Printing Pressmen Saw Smiths Slate Workers Stage Employes Stove Mounters Tailors Teamsters Textile Workers Tip Printers Tobacco Workers Travellers' Goods Typographical Union Upholsterers Weavers, Shingle Weavers, American Wire Wood Workers, Amal. Woodsmen and Sawmill Workers Lithographers Intl.[*683*] X. Jan. 30, 1909. NO. 9. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter from Secretary of the Central Federated Union of New York City, and also copy of the preambles and resolutions addressed to all city central bodies to which he refers, and which he desires endorsed. You will please advise me as to what your wishes are in regard to this matter. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*684*] COPY. OFFICE OF THE CENTRAL FEDERATED UNION, New York. Jan. 18, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor, Dear Sir and Brother: I am directed to enclose you a copy of a resolution against the introduction of local option and the consequent prohibition and to say that the same has been mailed to all State and Central Bodies. We have received replies from many of the Central bodies, endorsing our position in the premises and requesting copies in numbers for distribution to the local affiliations. The Shawnee Trades and Labor Assembly of Okla. replying, desired to know whether the A. F. of L. had endorsed the resolution, and hence this letter to you for the purpose of requesting an endorsement of our position on the matter. The danger to the organized trades accruing from the introduction and enforcement of Local Option is deemed so great, that a large number of directly interested trades in this vicinity have organized a special body for the specific purpose of fighting Local Option and prohibition. Reports received from centers where these fanatics and cranks have succeeded in gaining power demonstrate the disaster wrought among the various trades, members being minus jobs and with no chance to procure other work. Moreover in such places drunkenness has visibly increased, and Local Option instead of becoming a cure has become a curse. Fraternally, with best wishes, (Signed) Ernest Bohm, Cor. Sec.[*685*] Z Jan. 30, I909. Mr. John Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from the Secretary of the Central Federation of Trade Unions of London information is requested as to the number of lace machines in Pawtucket, R. I., and the number of men employed on these machines, and the number of men employed in the manufacture of silk lace in that city. My correspondent advises me that the information is issued by the mayor of Calais. I would appreciate your prompt reply giving me any information you can along the lines mentioned above. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*686*] Z Jan. 30, 1909. Mr. Austin Baudreau, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Union, 95 Meadow St., Pawtucket, R. I. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from the Secretary of the Central Federation of Trade Unions of London, information is requested as to the number of lace machines in Pawtucket, R. R., and the number of men employed on these machines, and the number of men employed in the manufacture of silk lace in that city. My correspondent advises me that the information is desired by the mayor of Calais. I would appreciate your prompt reply giving me any information you can along the lines mentioned above. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*687*] Z Jan. 30, 1909 Mr. J. E. Smith, Secretary, Local III, U. A. of Journeymen Plumbers, etc., Box 42, Tampa, Fla. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 25th Inst. regarding your Union's protest against the President of the Tampa, Fla., Central Body, Mr. Waters. I beg to advise that I have written to the Secretary of the Central Body and requested information on the subject. As soon as I receive a reply from him I will advise you further. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*688*] February 1, 1909. Mr. S. R. Matthysse, c/o Henry Sessler, 103 West 42nd St., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 26th addressed to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you request some literature and information on the negative side in an Open Shop debate. In reply would say that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the San Francisco, Pittsburg and Norfolk Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlet of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases," by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop" published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop" a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N. Y.[*689*] S. R. M. 2. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Should there be any published report made of your debate, I will appreciate it, if you will kindly see that copy is sent to me. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*690*] M February 1, 1909. Mr. H. W. Cope, Organizer, Berwick, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 26th is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that commission was renewed and forwarded to you on January 27, and if you do not receive same kindly notify this office. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*691*] M February 1, 1909. Mr. Simon Abrahamson, Room 701, 215 Montague St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 25 is at hand, in which you request information in support of the "Closed Shop Policy." In reply would say, that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the San Francisco, Pittsburg and Norfolk Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlet of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non Unionist a Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases," by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N. Y. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly request[*692*] S. A. 2. ed to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*693*] M February 1 , 1909. Mr. James R. Harris, Secretary, Central Labor Union, P. O. Box 1514, Seattle, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th ultimo is at hand, and contents noted. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Charles W. Doyle in accordance therewith, as volunteer organizer for Seattle and vicinity. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*694*] M February 1, 1909. Mr. Floyd Bailey, 1019 West 19th St. Cedar Falls, Iowa. Dear Sir: We are in receipt of a letter from the W. W. White, President District No. 13, United Mine Workers of America, Oskaloosa, Iowa, requestion us to send you information on the negative side of the following question: "Resolved, That in all industrial disputes Federal judges should have the right to issue injunctions or temporary restraining order without notice." In reply thereto I be to that in my reports to the conventions of 1893-97-99-1900-01-02, I also dealt with the subject of injunctions, but the only copies of these reports that I have are included in the official bound proceedings of these conventions. Editorially I have dealt with this subject as follows: 1897, Sept. Injunctions unrespected as a factor in Strikes. They must go. 1898, Nov. Injunctions and strikes. 1900, June Judge Freeman's Notorious Injunction. '' July The Happiness not to Know. '' Nov. English Hostility to Injunctions. 1901, June Moreabuse of the Injunction. '' Sept. Rights achieved must be maintained. Judicial Usurpation of Legislative Functions. It even nauseates the Press. 1901, Nov. The Right of Persuasion. 1902, March A Worthy Judicial Exception. '' April Anti-Injunction Legislation. '' May Conflicting Judicial Decisions. '' June Injunctions Can't Restrain Free Speech. 1903, May New Judicial Usurpation Through Injunctions. 1904, Feb. Invading Labor's Rights.[*695*] F. B. 2. 1904, March Misrepresenting the Anti-Injunction Bill. " May The Injunction Mania. 1905, March Some Notions on Injunction Legislation. " July Jenkins on Injunctions and Strikes. A Just Court Decision. " Nov. No Property Right in Labor. 1906, Jan. Two Courts on Picketing. " Feb. Development in Injunction Fight. " March Judge Holden's Injunction Frenzy. " April The Injunction in Labor Disputes Must Go. " July Injunctions extended. Where Next? " Oct. A Fair Injunction Decision - Labor Aims to Make it the Law of the Land. 1907. Jan. Judicial Perversion of Law against Labor. " April Congressional Juggling and Sophistry with the Injunction Issue. " June The Congressional Court Decisions. " Oct. Federal Unjunctions Jolted. Labor's Contention Justified. Taft, The Injunction Standard Bearer. " Nov. Taft, The Injunction Candidate. 1908, Feb. Free Press and Free Speech Invaded by Injunction. Against the A.F. of L. - A Review and Protest. " July Judge Upholds Labor's Injunction Contention. " Aug. The Essence of Labor's Contention on Injunctions. " Sept. The Cry for More (In)Equity. In the July 1904, issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is an article by Edward J. Livernash, entitled - " Injunctions - Why They Should not Apply." In the May issue of 1904 is published a Thesis on Injuncyions, by William Velpau Rooker. In the May issue, 1906, is published an argument by Andrew Furuseth before the Judiciary Committee on the Anti-Injunction Bill March 14, 1906, giving the essential principles of protest against injunctions in labor disputes. These three articles are particularly interesting. I should like to send you copies of the magazine containing all of these matters, but I have none, except in complete bound volume of each year.[*696*] F. B. 3. Then again, when the A. F. of L. Anti-Injunction Bill was considered by the Judiciary Committee of the House and the Judiciary Committee of the Senate in the last three or four Congresses, the representatives of the A. F. of L., including the undersigned, made extensive arguments in support of labor's contentions. These arguments are published in the Senate and House documents of these hearings. You might be able to secure copies of them through the representarive from your district. I should be glad to furnish you copies myself, but have only a few for the records of this office. Under separate cover I am sending you copy of a document entitled "Injunction Data filed by Samuel Gompers" which relates to this subject. You will bear in mind, however, the fact that the injunction cases thus collated are not by any means all of the injunctions issued in labor disputes, but merely the most important ones. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*697*] Z Feb. 1. 1909. Mr. W. R. Talkington, Secretary, Central Trades Council 464 So. Chestnut St., Clarksburg, W. Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I beliefe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain in the principle of justice and right and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*698*] Z Feb. I, 1909. Mr. Gustave Franco, General Secretary, The Labor Party, 165 rue Bleury, Montreal, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that I have in mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*699*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. J. W. Hart, Rec.--Secretary, L. U. #38, 532 E. 102 St., Cleveland, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 29th has been duly received, and in reply to the request for information therein contained, I beg to advise that at the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, at which the representatives of both sides of this Electrical Workers' controversy were present, this entire subject matter was thoroughly gone into. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiate every part of the agreement made at Denver, refuse to discontinue litigation before the courts, refuse to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associate complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, A. F. of L.[*700*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. C. T. Taylor, Rec.--Sec., Bro. of Electrical Workers, L. U. #292, 321 Irving Ave., Minneapolis, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 26th Inst. has been duly received and contents noted. In reply to your request for information upon the subject, I beg to advise that at the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, at which the representatives of both sides of this Electrical Workers' controversy were present, this entire subject matter was thoroughly gone into. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiate every part of the agreement made at Denver, refuse to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, A. F. of L.[*701*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. George E. Dickson, Suite 927, 153 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of January 30th regarding the en[a]ctment of e[m]ployees compensation act. Your letter will be brought to his attention upon his return to headquarters and he will communicate with you further. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretaryto President Gompers.[*702*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Charles E. Davis, Cor. Secretary, Central Labor Council, 116 High St., Hamilton, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receiptof your favor of Jan. 30th regarding the paper makers' strike in your city. Your letter will be bought to his attention upon his return to the office. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*703*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Wm. J. Gilthorpe, Secretary, Boiler Makers and Iron Ship Builders of America, Room 314 Portsmouth Bldg., Kansas City, Kans. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your telegram of even date and to advise that as per your request, five additional copies of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST are being sent you today under separate cover. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*704*] M February 1, 1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, P. O. Box 187, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 26th is at hand, in which you state that you have received a communication from Secretary Ensley of Carpenters Union No. 1510, Birmingham, Ala., relative to sending an organizer to that district. In reply I beg to say that under date of January 14, we received a letter from E. W. Coberly, Secretary of the Birmingham Trades Council, relative to this same matter, and advised Brother Coberly that just at this time it was not possible to send an organizer to that section, but that a note would be made of his request, and if found possible to do so, would be glad to comply therewith. If we are able at any time in the near future to comply with Brother Ensley's request, he will be notified. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*705*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Sydner Maiden, 2220 Normal Street, Cedar Falls, Iowa. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 27th ult., in which you say that you are studying the question of the issuance of injunctions in industrial disputes and you request data and information upon this subject. I beg to refer you to the enclosed editorial written by President Gompers, entitled "Essence of Labor's Convention", and also his report to the last annual convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Denver, Colo., November, 1908. On pages 6 to 26 you will note that he deals very fully with the injunction question. He has from time to time in previous reports to the conventions dwelt upon this subject, as well as in editorials in the American Federationist, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, of which he is editor, particularly in the following issues: 1897, Sept. Injunctions unrespected as a factor in strikes. They must go. 1896, Nov. Injunctions and Strikes. 1900, June, Judge Freeman's notorious injunction. 1900, July, The Happiness not to Know. 1900, Nov. English Hostility to Injunctions.[*706*] Mr. Sydner Maiden --2-- 1901, June, More Abuse of the Injunction. 1901, Sept. Rights Achieved Must be Maintained. Judicial Usurpation of Legislative Functions. It even Nauseates the Press. 1901, Nov. The Right of Persuasion. 1902, March, A Worthy Judicial Exception. 1902, April, Anti-Injunction Legislation. 1902, May, Conflicting Judicial Decisions. 1902, June, Injunctions Can't Restrain Free Speech. 1903, May, New Judicial Usurpation Through Injunctions. 1904, Feb., Invading Labor's Rights. 1904, March, Misrep[e]rese[i]nting the Anti-Injunction Bill. 1904, May, The Injunction Mania. 1905, March, Some Notions on Injunction Legislation. 1905, July, Jenkins on Injunctions and Strikes. A Just Court Decision. 1905, Nov., No Property Right in Labor. 1906, Jan., Two Courts on Picketing. 1906, Feb., Development in Injunction Fight. 1906, Mar., Judge Holder's Injunction Frenzy, 1906, April., The Injunction in Labor Disputes Must Go. 1906, July, Injunction Extended . Where Next? 1906, Oct., A Fair Injunction Decision - Labor Aims to Make it the [n]Law of the Land. 1907, Jan., Judicial Perversion of Law Against Labor. 1907, April, Congressional Juggling and Sophistry with the Injunction Issue. 1907, June, The Congressional Court Decisions. 1907, Oct., Federal Injunctions Jolted. Labor's Contention Justified. Taft, the Injunction Standard Bearer. 1907, Nov., Free Press and Free Speech Invaded by Injunction[s] against The A. F. of L. - A Review and Protest. 1908, July, Judge Upholds Labor's Injunction Contention. 1908, Aug., The Essence of Labor's Contention of Injunctions, 1908, Sept., The Cry for More (In) Equity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President, Gompers.707 Washington, D. C., Feb 2, 1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, Room 820, Monon Block, Chicago, Ill. After consultation believe it advisable that International Union be represented at conference. If you so desire send credential. T. F. Tracy COLLECT[*703*] Washington, D. C., Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. C. W. Perkins, Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. In view of all circumstances be best to eliminate me from proceedings February twelfth at Chicago. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[*709*] M February 2, 1909. Mr. J. N. Donovan, Churchill House, Andover, Mass. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 31st ultimo is at hand, in which you request material for use in a debate on the question "Resolved, That members of trade unions are justified in refusing to work with non-union men," and state that you are on the affirmative side. In reply would say that I took up the question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the San Francisco, Pittsburg and Norfolk Conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlet of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases," by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop" published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wahash Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion betwe n Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of "The Journal," Rochester, N. Y.[*710*] J. N. D. 2. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Should there be any published report made of your debate, I will appreciate it, if you will kindly see that copy is sent to me. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*711*] M February 2, 1909. Mr. Edgar A. Perkins, Rooms 16, 119 West Maryland St., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 26th has been receive, in which you enclose letter from C. J. Noble, Hyndman Pa., and beg to say that I have taken the matter up with Mr. Noble. I thank you for forwarding same to me. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*712*] M February 2, 1909. Mr. C. J. Noble, Hyndman, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 27th addressed to Indianapolis, Indiana, has been forwarded here, and in reference to your inquiry as to manufacturers of wearing apparel employing union labor, I beg to refer you to Secretary B. A. Larger, 116-117 Bible House, New York City, of the United Garment Workers of America, and Albert Hibbert, Box 742, Fall River, Mass., Secretary of the United Textile Workers of America, who will be able to furnish you with the lists you desire. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*713*] M February 2, 1909. Mr. George Feinberg, 60 Wall St., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 27th is at hand, and beg to say that the literature mentioned to you in my previous letter was forwarded to you on the 27th ultimo, and no doubt you have received same. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*714*] M February 2, 1909. Mr. Will Massey, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Vincennes, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore, I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this Crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*715*] M February 2, 1909. Mr. C. F. Wennerstrum,Jr., 738-18th St., Des Moines, Iowa. Dear Sir: Under date of January 26th I received a letter from your father in which he requests me to send you an expression of opinion on "Prison Labor and its effect on Free Labor." In reply I beg to say that I should very much like to enter into details in a letter, but it is an absolute impossibility at this time, I am so crowded with work requiring my immediate attention. I take it that you can obtain copies of the printed proceedings of the Conventions of the A. F. of L., and also the file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I think you can obtain files in the Columbia University Library or the Astor Library. If not, I would suggest that you call on Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave., New York City, who more than likely would have a file. It is worth while examining them, and I will indicate to you for your convenience the issues of both these documents upon the subject. "Official Proceedings Convention Birmingham 1891 - President Gompers report, and the report of the Committee to the Convention, and which the Convention adopted.[*716*] C.F. W. Jr. 2. Report of President Gompers, Nashville Convention Proceedings 1897, and report of Committee on President Gompers report. Report of President Gompers Kansas City Convention 1898. Report of President Gompers Detroit Convention 1899, and action of the Convention. Report of President Gompers Louisville Convention 1900. Report of President Gompers Scranton Convention 1901. Report of President Gompers New Orleans Convention 1902. Report of President Gompers San Francisco Convention 1904. Report of President Gompers Minneapolis Convention 1906. Report of President Gompers Norfolk 1907. Editorials in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST September and October 1904. We have not spare copies of either the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST or official printed Proceedings other than on sale, otherwise I should be glad to forward you copies of them. Trusting that you may be able to consult the above, which are very comprehensive and would be helpful to you, I am, Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*717*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. John Finch, Treasurer, United Mine Workers of America L. U. #2027, Denning, Ark. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*718*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Rev. W. A. Javorel, Station A, Dallas, Texas. Dear Sir: In compliance with the request contained on your post card of the 29th Ult., I am sending you today under separate cover copy of the Official Proceedings of the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor, together with bill for same. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*719*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. J. T. Carey, President, Int'l Brotherhood of Paper Makers, etc., 22 Smith Bldg., Watertown, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Jan. 29th has been duly received and contents noted. I misunderstood your previous letter to mean that you wanted Organizer Reid to attend the meeting at Albany on Jan. 25th, and I wired him to that effect. However, I am writing to him by this mail and requesting him to so arrange his work at Rochester so as to attend your convention in Boston on Feb. 8th. I most sincerely trust that he can be of material assistance in bringing the two organizations of paper, pulp and sulphite workers into one body. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*720*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Stuart Reid, Organizer, 23 Reynolds Arcade, Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: President Carey of the Paper Makers advises me that a convention of his organization will be held in Boston Feb. 8th and that there is some prospect of adjusting matters between the Paper Makers and the Pulp and Sulphite Workers. He specially requests that you attend that convention. I shall be glad, therefore, to have you so arrange your work in Rochester so as to comply with his request. Kindly write him direct in regard thereto as well as to the undersigned, and oblige Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*721*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Samuel C. Dunham, Rawhide, Nevada. Dear Sir: In the absence of Mr. Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 26th Inst, with which you enclose a poem "To Andrew Carnegie". Your communication will be brought to President Gompers' attention upon his return. The copy of the paper "The Nevada Mining News", for which please accept thanks. Under separate cover, a copy of the Fenruary issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is being sent to you. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*722*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Mr David Kreyling, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Union, Walhalla Hall,St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 30th Inst., in which you advise concerning the levying of a five cent assessment in response to the appeal for funds in connection with the injunction and contempt case. I am sure Mr. Gompers will be very much gratified at the action taken and will be glad to hear from you further. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*723*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Hon. Frank J. Weber, Assembly Chamber, Wisconsin Legislature, Madison, Wis. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 28th Ult. with which you enclose a clipping from a newspaper on the subject of injunctions. Your letter will be brought to Mr. Gompers' attention upon his return to the office. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*724*] Z Feb. 2, 1909 Mr. C. B. Kiseman, Secretary, Waiters Union, Local No. I7, 141 South Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, Cal. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of Jan. 22nd containing resolutions of thanks for th assistance rendered your organization by Organizer Arthur A. Hay. I am sure Mr. Gompers will be glad to know that Mr. Hay has been of assistance to you. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*725*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. J. Ferd. Reiling, Secretary, Fort Wayne Federation of Labor, 1018 Erie Street, Fort Wayne, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 26th inst. received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor is now endeavoring to effect an adjustment of the difficulties between the Boot and Shoe Workers organization and the W. L. Douglas Shoe Company. We shall leave no effort un[?]ried and it is hoped that our efforts will be crowned with success. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.726 Z Feb. 1, 1909. I[n] replying refer to Resolution #76. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, 281 Fourth Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Jan. 29th has been duly received and contents noted. I am glad to know that you can meet in conference with the representatives of the Quarry Workers and the Paving Cutters organizations. I do not comprehend that there will be any difficulty whatever in arranging for the conference to be held in New York City so [a]s to suit your convenience, I am writing to the Secretaries of both organizations by this mail and have requested them to write you direct in regard to the matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.727 Z Feb. 1, 1909. In replying refer to Resolution #76. Mr. John Sheret, Secretary-,Treas., Paving Cutters' Union of the U. S. and Canada, Box 116, Albion, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of the 28th Inst., I beg to advise you that Vice-President Mitchell informs me that he will be glad to meet in conference with the representatives of your organization and the Quarry Workers Int'l Union of America, provided you can make it convenient to meet with him in New York as he is unable at present to give the time necessary to make a trip away from the City, I would suggest, therefore, that you write him direct in regard to the matter and at the same time advise me. I take it that it will be equally as convenient for both you and Secretary McCarthy to meet with Mr. Mitchell in New York. I might say further I am writing both to Mr. Mitchell and Secretary McCarthy by this mail. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.728 Z Feb: 1. 1909. When replying refer to Resolution #76. M. P. F. McCarthy, Secretary, Quarry Workers International Union of America, Scampini Bldg., Barre, Vt. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of the 28th Inst., I beg to advise you that Vice-President Mitchell informs me that he will be glad to meet in conference with the representatives of your organization and the Paving Cutters' Union provided you can make it convenient to meet with him in New York as he is unable at present to give the time necessary to make a trip away from the City, I would suggest, therefore, that you write him direct in regard to the matter and at the same time advise me. I take it that it will be equally as convenient for both you and Secretary Sheret to meet with Mr. Mitchell in New York. I might say further I am writing both to Mr. Mitchell and Secretary Sheret by this mail. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.729 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Ralston and Siddons, Bond Building, City. Gentlemen: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which I have just received from an Attorney at Law of Los Angeles, Cal., Charles S. Burnell, in regard to the decision recently rendered by the Supreme Court of California in the case of J. F. Parkinson vs. the Building Trades Council, of Santa Clara Co. I have not as yet made any reply to Mr. Burnell's letter, and before doing so I would like for you to advise me whether you can or care to avail yourself of the offer he makes. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.730 COPY. Los Angeles, Cal., Jan. 25, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, 423-425 G St., N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: I have been very much interested in the newspaper accounts of the sentence imposed upon yourself, John Mitchell and others by the Federal Court of the District of Colombia. The offence consisted -- as I understand it -- in the placing of the Buck Stove Company on the unfair list contrary to the order of the Court. I was one of the Attorneys for the Building Trades Council of Santa Clara County in the case of J. F. Parkinson Co. vs. the Building Trade Council; in which case the very matters involved in your case, as I understand it, came up for decision before the Court. The Superior Court of Santa Clara decided against us and issued a permanent injunction restraining the Building Trades Council and its affiliated unions from distributing "unfair notices" and from placing the Parkinson Company on the unfair list, and notifying the friends of union labor that the Parkinson Co. is an unfair concern. We took an appeal to the Supreme Court of the State, and I wrote the briefs in the case. A decision has just been handed down by the Supreme Court sustaining every point which I made in the brief for the Building Trades Council, and holding that it is perfectly lawful for a labor union to send out "unfair notices", and requesting those in sympathy with union labor to refrain from working for or patronizing a concern that does not conduct its business according to principles approved by organized labor, and that such acts do not constitute an unlawful conspiracy, provided there is no violence or intimidation involved. 731 --2-- The brief in the Parkinson case was the work of three or four months of constant labor, in the course of which I reviewed every case decided in this country, or in England, involving questions relating to organized labor; and I am confident that our Supreme Court arrived at the correct result in deciding the Parkinson case, and if the newspaper accounts of your case are correct the Court had no authority to impose the sentence it did. If I can be of any assistance to your organization, either in explaining the decision in the Parkinson case, or in any other way, I should be very glad to do so. Very truly yours, (Signed)Charles B. Burnell.732 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. S. M. Craiger, 38 East 49th Street, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 29th has been duly received and contents noted. I have also noted a letter you enclose from Mr. L. Becker, Financial Secretary of Carpenters Local Union #309 of New York City. I beg to advise you that I have sent a copy of your letter, together with a copy of Mr. Becker's letter, to Mr. Wm. D. Huber, President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, the national organization of the trade represented by local union #309. All such matters come directly under the jurisdiction of the officers of the organization of the trade interested, rather than the officers of the American Federation of Labor. I have specially requested Mr. Huber to give this matter his immediate attention, and I am sure he will do everything that he can consistent with the laws of his organization, to comply with your suggestion. Reciprocating your good wishes, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.733 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Wm. D. Huber, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, State Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter with enclosure from Mr. S. M. Craiger of New York City which is self explanatory. I also enclose duplicate copy of my reply, and I would appreciate it if you would look into this matter and give it your early attention. I would also appreciate if you would write direct to Mr. Craiger in regard thereto, as well as to advise me as to what action has been taken in the case. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.734 COPY. New York City, Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, 423 G St., N. W., Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Gompers: I enclose a letter to me dated January 14th, from L. Becker, Financial Secretary, L. U. #309, U. B. C. & J. of A., which explains itself. Mr. Helbig, 300 E. 59th St., in whose behalf I wrote Mr. Becker, reported at the Labor Temple, and was informed he would have to pay a new initiation fee of $30. and $3. extra for incidentals. He had paid $25. in the summer of 1907. He has been out of regular employment for a long time, and is liable to be dispossessed. I recently went to a contractor and got a job for him, but he was unable to take it because the employer only had only union men. I am scarcely able to advance Mr. Helbig $33. at this time, as I am carrying a number of people myself this winter. Under the circumstances, and as he seems to have no other way of obtaining the money, could you not help me to have the new fee waived, or at least allow Helbig to pay it in installments? No doubt there is some reason for the provision; and I learned during our association in the Civic Federation to hear your side before trying to form opinions in such cases. Awaiting your reply, believe me, with good wishes, Very sincerely yours, (Signed) S. M. Craiger. 38 E 49th St.735 COPY. UNITED BROTHERHOOD OF CARPENTERS AND JOINERS OF AMERICA, LOCAL UNION #309, New York City, 1612 2d. Ave., Jan. 14, 1909. Mr. Craiger, Dear Sir: I have received your letter concerning Mr. Jacob Helbig, This man was admitted to our Local June 24th, 1907, paid one months dues, and since then I have not seen him again and I do not know him personally either. If he wishes to become a member he will have to come to the Executi[?]e Board which meets Friday evenings at 8 o'clock at the Labor Temple, 243 -247 E. 84th St., 1st floor, room No. 6. Yours very truly, (Signed) L. Becker, Fin. Sec.[*736*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. F. Haller, Attorney At Law, 705 Mutual Life Building, Buffalo, New York. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 29th has been received and contents noted. I am glad to be able to comply with your request for two copies of Judge Parkers' Brief. These are sent to you under separate cover, and I am also sending you two copies of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, in which are published Justice Wright's decision and also my editorial review of same. Thanking you for your good wishes, I am, Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Dear Fred; Let me have a word from you occasionally. Hope you & yours are well. SG.737 Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Harry D. Thomas, Secretary, Ohio Federation of Labor, 717 Superior Ave., N. E., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Jan. 28th has been duly received and contents noted. Now in regard to the matter of representation of the local union of Stogie Makers in the Ohio Federation of Labor, your attention is directed to Section I, article II of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor: "No Central Labor Union, or any other central body of delegates, shall admit to or retain in their councils delegates from any local organization that owes it allegiance to any other body, National or International, hostile to any affiliated organization, or that has been suspended or expelled by, or not connected with, a National or International organization of their trade herein affiliated, under penalty of having their charter revoked for violation of their charter, subject to appeal to the next Convention." This applies also to the state federations of labor. It might not be amiss in connection with the above matter to call your attention to that part of the report of the Grievance Committee of the Minneapolis Convention, which was adopted by the Convention dealing with the subject of the Central Labor Unions which violate the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. For your full information, I quote that part of the738 Mr. Harry D. Thomas ---2--- report herein. It is as follows: "It has been brought to the attention of the Grievance Committee by protests handed to the Committee on Credentials and referred to us, that a number of the Central Bodies affiliated with the American Federation of Labor are violating the laws of that body by seating the representatives of dual and seceding organizations, or those who are antagonistic to the Federation and its affiliated bodies and illegally unseating or refusing to admit delegates, representing National or International Unions affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. Your committee recommends that the Executive Council be instructed to rigidly enforce the laws of the American Federation of Labor governing the action of Central Bodies affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. Any Central Bo[y]d[d]y refusing to comply with the laws shall have its charter revoked." The above has been re[onil]affirmed by subsequent conventions. The American Labor movement has progressed and advanced far in excess of what its old time and most sanguine friends and advocates believed possible in so short a time. It has succeeded in a great measure by reason of the higher intelligence and bet- ter co-operation of its men. The feeling of fraternity and identity of interests, and beyond all, the higher discipline and co-operation have resulted in the conception and practice that a common policy and polity are not only necessary, but essential to the integrity and to the greater success of our cause. It is only by profit[t]ing by the higher in[t]elligence and as thoroughly as possible carrying out the laws and decisions of the highest court in the American Labor movement, formulated by the representa-tives of labor, that still greater progress will ensue and still greater success attend our efforts in the common interests of all. You say that at the meeting of the Executive Board of the Ohio Federation of Labor at which the representatives of the local union of Stogie Makers were present, that after discussing the matter for sometime it was finally decided that it should be Mr. Riley of the Stogie Makers, submitted to President Perkins of the Cigar Makers /and the under-[*739*] Mr. Harry D. Thomas---3--- signed to decide whether the Ohio Federation of Labor would be justified in admitting the Stogie Makers. As President of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to reply to you as above in conformity with the well understood principles, policy, practice and laws of the Federation. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.740 Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Max Pine, Secretary-Treasurer, United Hebrew Trades, 133 Eldridge St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of the 30th Ult. has been received, in which you extend to me an invitation to deliver an address at the celebration of the twenty-first anniversary of the existence of the United Hebrew Trades, on March 2nd, 1909, in the city of New York. In reply let me say that invitation is appreciated by me, but I regret that I shall be unable to accept owing to a previous engagement. With best wishes, and trusting that the celebration will be in every way a success, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.741 Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. H. S. Stollnitz, 503 1/2 R. R. Bldg., Denver, Colo. Dear Sir: Your favor of Jan. 28th has been duly received and con- tents noted. My Secretary did not understand you to mean that you left the two books "Redemption, A Double Dream", and "Glimpses of a Strange World", with her for me to purchase, but rather that you submitted them as so many others constantly do for my informa- tion and possible reference in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. A great number of books, pamphlets, and magazines are sent to me in that way, but I am constantly so crowded with pressing and important work that it is seldom I can find the opportunity even to glance through them. I thank you, however, for submitting your two volumes to me, but I regret to say that I have not yet had an opportunity of reading them. In conformity with your suggestion, I return them to you under separate cover. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*742*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. John O. Montague, Rec. Secretary, Columbia Lodge #174, I. A. of M., 1211 Pa Ave., S. E., City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th Ult., extending an invitation to me to attend the annual entertainment of Columbia Lodge #174 at National Rifles' Hall, this city Feb. 18th, 1909, has been duly received and noted. In reply permit me to say that if I am in the city on that date I shall be very pleased to attend. Thanking you for your invitation, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Even if I cannot be with you on this occasion, I hope it will be enjoyable & successful S.G.743 Z Feb. 1, 1909. Hon. Joseph Madden, Judiciary Committee, State House, Concord, N. H. Dear Sir: Your favor of Jan. 30th has been duly received and con- tents noted. Now in regard to the matter of an Employers' Liability Bill, let me say that we now have under consideration the draft of such a bill and when it is completed I shall be glad to send a copy to you. Replying to the concluding paragraph of your letter in regard to the recent decision of Justice Wright of the Supreme Court of the District of Columbia, I beg to call your attention to the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, copy of which is sent you under separate cover. In that issue is published in full Justice Wright's decision as well as my editorial review of it. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.744 X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. [?]. Rosenbaum, Chairman, Committee on Arrangements, The Social Oyster Club, Bureau of Engraving and Printing, City. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of January 28th, which I find awaiting me this morning upon my return to my office after an absence of some days on official business, I beg to thank you for your invitation to attend the entertainment at Masonic Temple on Monday evening, February 8th, and if possible I shall be present, but as matters now appear it is decidedly uncertain whether I can avail myself of your courtesy. I sincerely trust, however, that the evening will be most enjoyable in every respect. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.745 X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Gibson Weber, Treasurer, Cigar Makers' International Union, 1704 N. Gratz St., Station C, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 30th to hand and contents noted. Your words of commendation of my course are indeed gratifying and I want to express to you the appreciation I feel. I have read with interest the clippings you enclosed. Under separate cover I am sending you a copy of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST in which you will find an editorial review of the decision of Justice Wright. More than likely it will please you. In so far as the question of an assessment is concerned, which you say you propose, permit me to remind you that inasmuch as the matter is so closely allied to my own personality that a decent regard for the amenities require that I shall express no opinion upon that subject. Conscious of the desire always to be helpful to my fellows in the great struggle for the human uplift, I trust that my course may continue to commend itself to your favorite consideration. With kindest regards, and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.746 X. Feb. 2, 1909. The Review of Reviews, 13 Astor Place, New York City. Gentlemen: Please renew my subscription to the Review of Reviews at the old subscription price of $2.50 a year for one year. Enclosed find check for $2.50. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*747*] X. Jan. 29, 1909. Mr. W. H. White, Editor, The Emporia Gazette Emporia, Kansas. Dear Sir: Your favor of Jan. 25th has been duly received and contents noted. I should like to comply with your request for data and information to be used in the preparation of your article for the American Magazine, but for the life of me I do not see how you can give any indication of the work of the American Federation of Labor in one paragraph. The Federation in now entering the twenty-- eighth year of its existence and in that time it has made great strides and has been instrumental in securing great improvements in the condition of the toilers. To attempt to express in one paragraph or even in one page for that matter, what the Federation has accomplished, and what it hopes to accomplish, would not only be entirely unfair to the Federation and its work but your article would be who[o]lly misleading. I am sending you under separate cover copies of the report of the Secretary of the Federation and of the President to the last annual convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Denver, Colo., last November. The Secretary's report contains the only statistics which this office attempts to compile. I am also sending you some of the literature published by this office, to[*748*] Mr. W. H. White --2-- which your attention is directed as indicating very briefly the "aims and aspirations of the Federation". Your attention is particulately called to the statement published by the Cigar Makers' International Union, of which I am Vice-President, which shows the benefits paid by that organization and the decrease in deaths from tuberculosis since the international union was formed. This is the report from only one international union, but similar data from other trades in which you may be interested could be secured direct from the secretaries of those organizations as indicated on the enclosed list. Of course, you understand that to get a general idea of the work of the Federation, it would be necessary for you to consult the official printed proceedings of each year's annual conventions. In a postscript to your letter your desire to know what is the average sum annually paid for the sick dues or strike dues. As indicated above, the payment of such benefits is by the organizations of the various trades, that is, both national and local, and varies as provided by their respective constitutions. The constitution of the American Federation of Labor provides for payment of strike benefits to members of directly affiliated local unions under certain provisions as indicated in Article 13 of the Constitution, copy of which is included in the package of literature being sent to you under separate cover. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*749*] LF February 2, 1909 Mr. Eli. M. Gross, Organizer, Room 405 Railroad Bldg., Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant is received and contents noted. In reply to the first paragraph of your letter, I beg to refer you to Section 1, Article XI of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, which reads as follows: "No Central Labor Union, or any other central body of delegates, shall admit to or retain in their councils delegates from any local organization that owes it allegiance to any other body, National or International, hostile to any affiliated organization, or that has been suspended or expelled by, or not connected with, a National or International organization of their trade herein affiliated, under penalty of having their charter revoked for violation of their charter, subject to appeal to the next Convention." As you are aware it is always the aim and object of the officers of the A. F. of L. to induce every national organization which has remained aloof from the organized labor movement, to become one of the great family of affiliated trade unions under the banner of the American Federation of Labor. Every legitimate influence is brought to bear to bring about the result so much to be desired. When a local of an unaffiliated national declares itself in favor of the A. F. of L.; when it gives its influence in every possible way toward having its national become affiliated, when it[*750*] Mr. Eli. M. Gross--2 takes the stand that its national should become affiliated, and by its vote and actions demonstrates and emphasizes that declaration, then it does not seem a reasonable course on the part of the A. F. of L. to debar such local from representation in an affiliated central body. If, on the other hand, such local is antagonistic to the A. F. of L., and does not favor the affiliation of its national but gives its vote and influence against such a course being pursued, then such local should be classed as "hostile" to the American Federation of Labor, as understood by Section I, Article XI, of the Constitution, and, therefore, should be denied representation in an affiliated central body. You desire to know whether the American Federation of Labor will issue charters to local unions of agents, junk peddlers, or team owners. In reply let me say that heretofore when such applications for charter have been submitted, charters have not been granted. It is hardly probably that the Executive Council would act otherwise in the case in question. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*751*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Charles W. Fear, Chairman, Convention Arrangements Committee, State Federation of Labor, 306 N. Pearl St., Joplin, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 23rd inst. received and contents noted. In reply, I beg to say that I would be glad to accept your invitation to attend the convention of the Missouri State Federation of Labor, which you say meets in Joplin on September third next, but I expect to be in England on that date. As you know, the Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor directed me to visit England and several European countries for the purpose of making an investigation of conditions there, and reporting to the next convention. After a consultation with our attorneys in regard to the status of our appeals in the injunction suit and the contempt proceedings, I am advised that there is no reason why I should not undertake this trip. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*752*] LF February 2, 1909 Mr. John B. Powell, 642 Hamilton Ave., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22nd instant is received and contents noted. I presume you refer to statement made by me in my report to the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held last November, copy of which is enclosed herein. I refer to the marked paragraph on Page 17. I shall read your article which you say will be published in the February issue of the CARPENTER under your nom de plume; Prof. Ezra G. Grey. I have been on the witness stand for several days in the Danbury Hatters Case, and am now leaving the city to keep a number of important engagements in connection with our movement, but I shall endeavor to look over the February issue of the CARPENTER as soon as possible after my return. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*753*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Thos. H. Palmer, Secretary, International Union of Slate Workers, Pen Argyl, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th inst. is received and contents noted. Yousay that the last annual convention directed the executive officer of the international union [o]to draft a bill making provision for Quarry Inspectors in the State of Pennsylvania to be introduced in the next session of the Pennsylvania State Legislature. You further say that a committee of three representative of your international union will go to Harrisburg to appear before the committee on mines and Mining, and that after the bill had been introduced you would like to have Organizers Frayne and Wyatt sent to Harrispburg to lobby in the interests of the bill, and also to appear with you before the committee to show cause why the bill should be passed. While it does not now appear to be practicable to fully comply with your request, yet if you will advise me sufficiently in advance and just when the bill will be taken up by the Committee on Mines and Mining, I will certainly endeavor to have Organizers Frayne and Wyatt meet the Committee from your international union in Harrisburg and to appear before the committee. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.[*754*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Samuel M. Albert, Vice-President, International Union of Slate Workers, 412 Penna. Ave., Bangor, Me. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of January 30th, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter which I wrote to Secretary Palmer of your International Union yesterday, February 1st, which you will please accept as equally addressed to you. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*755*] COPY. Washington, D. C., Feb. 1, 1909 Mr. Th[?]mas H. Palmer. Secretary, International Union of Slate Workers, Pen Argyl, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th Inst. is received and contents note[?]. You say that the last annual convention directed the exec[?]tive officers of the international union to draft a bill making provision for Quarry Inspectors in the State of Pennsylvania to [?]e introduced in the next session of the Pennsylvania State Leg[?]slature. You further say that a committee of three represen[?]atives of your international union will go to Harrisburg to app[?]ar before the committee on mines and mining, and that after thebill had been introduced you would like to have Organizers Frame and Wyatt sent to Harrisburg to lobby in the interests of thebill, and also to appear with you before the committee to show cause why the bill should be passed. While it does not now appear to be practicable to fully comply with [t]your request; yet if you will advise me sufficiently in advance and just when the bill will be taken up by the Committee on Mines and Mining, I will certainly endeavor to have Organizers Frame and Wyatt meet the Committee from your international union in Harrisburg and to appear before the committee. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.756 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Daniel J. Keefe, Commissioner General, Department of Commerce and Labor, Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization, Washington, D. C. Sir: Your favor of January 30th has been duly received and contents noted. I have also noted the letter you enclose addressed to you by Mr. F. J. Sullivan of Springfield, Illinois, who claims to represent the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, in which he asks you to intercede with the Post Office authorities in the interests of the journal which he issues. I beg to advise you that at the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, at which the representatives of both sides of this Electrical Workers' controversy were present, this entire subject matter was thoroughly gone into. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of[*757*] Mr. Daniel J. Keefe --2-- Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. I return Mr. Sullivan's letter herein. I also acknowledge receipt of the list of names of those invited to meet with Secretary Straus on February 10th. As requested, members of the Executive Council have been requested to attend same. Respectfully yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*758*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. John A. Moffitt, President, United Hatters of North America, 11 Waverly Pl., Room 15, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In conformity with the action of the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor, the undersigned invited five union label organizations to direct their respective representatives to meet in conference with him at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor Jan. 22nd. The conference was held on that date and there were given attention the several matters which the Denver Convention directed should be submitted to this union label conference, together with matter referred to it by the Executive Council at its latest meeting. However, the matter to which I especially desire to call your attention are the preambles and resolutions adopted by this conference requesting the Executive Council to render your organization all possible assistance in its controversy with the National Association of Hat Manufacturers, and also requesting that all affiliated organizations shall make a special effort to create a demand for the label of the United Hatters of North America. In conformity therewith, I beg to advise you that I have communicated the above to the Executive Council and the of--[*759*] Mr. John [?]. Moffitt----2---- ficers of the union label organizations have been requested to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of labor on Thursday, March 3rd, to consider the formation of a union label department of the A. F. of L., and also to take up the several matters, the above being one, which the union label conference directed should be submitted to the conference on March 3rd. Assuring you of my earnest desire to render every assistance within my power to your organization, and with a ernest hope of success, I am. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*760*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary, Labor Council, Labor Temple, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st Inst. has been duly received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that since the decision of Justice Wright and the sentence imposed on Vice-President Mitchell, Secretary Morrison and me, I have received hundreds of letters and telegrams protesting against the decision and sentences and expressing sympathy and a desire to be helpful. These communications have come not only from the men of labor but from friends and sympathizers in different walks of life. As you can very readily appreciate it will be absolutely out of the question for me to attempt to make an individual personal reply to these hundreds of letters and telegrams. I therefore dictated a general letter to be used substantially as the bases of a reply to all, the clerks in whose hands these matters were placed having instructions to act according. I recall one day particularly when my mail ran over two hundred letters not to mention about twenty-five or more telegrams. This will give you some indication of the volume of mail handled by my assistan[n]ts in the office. Feeling much a deep sense of appreciation of the wide spread expression of opinion in protest against the action of the [S]Court[*761*] Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher ---2--- and in support of my position, I was, and am, particularly desirous that every such letter shall be given a prompt reply. In all of the hundreds of letters thus sent out the letter received from you under date of Jan. 21st is the only communication which has reached me that a mistake of any character has occurred. Witih kind regards to you and to all our good friends in San Francisco, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. If your Honor Please! Not 3.000 times, but as many times that the blooming thing has seethed my mind. Guilty. S.G.[*762*] Z Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. John [?] Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Jan. 19th was duly received and contents noted. The union label conference met here on the 22nd-23rd and the conference decided that the [u]Union Label Law Digest should be made by Mr. Eugene Clifford of Chicago, and therefore, as you can understand, I am unable to act upon the suggestion you make in regard to Mr. Cohen. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. N. B. I submitted the name of our friend Henry Cohen to the conference. S. G.[*763*] X. Feb 2, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Second Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 281 4th Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 28th I find awaiting me upon my return to Headquarters this morning after an absence of some days on official business. I note your suggestion to Mr. Filene that the meeting should take place on February 15th in order to make a final disposition of the Traiser Company matter. I beg to say that while I desire to conform to Mr. Filene's convenience and I realize the danger of delay, yet it would be impossible for me to attend a conference on that date, for it is necessary in getting [p]out my editorials for the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST for me to be at Headquarters at that time. Let me hear from you further, and believe me to be, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*764*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Herman Gutstadt, 1887 Ellis Street, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Friend: I have just returned to Headquarters after an absence of some days on official business, and find your favor of January 23d. awaiting me. I assure you that I was indeed glad to hear from you and appreciate greatly the sentiments you express. I have received so many letters of a similar character from friends and sympathizers and I feel so deeply the sentiments expressed that I really hardly know how to reply. I can again only repeat that I appreciate all that you say from the very bottom of my heart. With sincerest good wishes and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. In all the above Mrs. & Miss Gompers join me. Let me hear from you often. SG Read Feb. issue American Federationist[*765*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. American Publishers' Association, 511 Lakeside Building, Chicago, Illinois. Gentlemen: Your favor of January 27th received and contents noted. When you sent in the request for a biographical statement of myself for publication in Herringshaw's Encyclopedia, at the same time requesting one of my photographs, I certainly did not understand that that would entail any expense on my part. I sent the photograph simply in compliance with your request and for your convenience. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*766*] X. Feb 2, 1909. Mr. Richard L. Jones, Secretary, Lincoln Farm Association, 74 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir: As important engagements will prevent President Gompers' attending the meeting of the members and directors of the Lincoln Farm Association on Monday afternoon, February 8th, he has therefore requested Mr. Frederick E. Pierce to act as his proxy. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard, Secretary t o President Gompers.767 X. Feb 2, 1909. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, General Manager, Lincoln Farm Association, 74 Broadway, New York City. My dear Mr. Pierce: As President Gompers is unable to attend the meeting of the members and directors of the Lincoln Farm Association on Monday afternoon, February 8th, he would appreciate your acting as his proxy as per the enclosed. He directs me to say further that he has had the official proceedings of the last convention of the Federation specially bound for a number of his friends, you being included. This copy is sent to you under separate cover. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard. Secretary to President Gompers.768 X. Feb. [?] 1909. Mr. James Sidney Swan, 1[?]08 Webster Street, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir: Your favor of Jan 25th has been duly received and contents noted. I receive the International Iron Holders' Journal here regularly and have noted the articles in regard to creating a home for disabled union molders'. I desire to say that the object is a most commendable one, and I sincerely trust that its ultimate object may be in time fully realized. As to the methods and the means by which the home should be created, I would suggest that you consult the officers of the International Union of Iron Molders. It is scarcely necessary for me to say that I will be glad to co-operate with them and you in any way within my power in this, as well as in any other matter of interest to that organization. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. I would suggest your corresponding with President James H. Lynch of the Int'l. Typographical Union, Newton-Claypool Bldg, Indianapolis, Ind., who I am sure will be glad to give you full information as to the methods of conducting the Printers' Home at Colorado Springs, Colo.769 Z Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary, Labor Council. Labor Temple, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 25th has been duly received and contents, also receipt of your telegram of January 11th, which was submitted to my colleagues of the Executive Council then in session in this City, but owing to my editorial work on the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST and other pressing official work which required immediate attention, and also to my being on the witness stand in the Danbury Hatters' case when here, I have not been able until this date to take up the work as outlined by the Council, and hence your failure to receive an answer to your telegram. In addition to your telegraphic request, the Executive Council had under consideration about fifteen applications for the appointment of special organizers or for special organization work. The funds of the Federation have been for the past two months and are now in such a condition as to make it impossible for us to incur any additional expenses at this time along the line of special organization work. We have endeavored in the past and will endeavor in the future to do the very best we possibly can with the funds at our command in the interests of the movement in California as well as in other sections of the country.770 Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher---2--- and I am sure that you will agree with me that if we have not the money with which to meet the expenses of additional organizers it would be worse than folly to place them at work. Of course you have not lost sight of the fact that there is a special organizer of the A. F. of L. in San Francisco, Mr. W. E. Terry, who has been at work there since the first of the year. We shall endeavor to continue Mr. Terry at work in that field just as long as we can possibly do so. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, [Signature: Samuel Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.771 M February 3, 1909. Prof. Arthur J. Boynton, 1104 Tennessee St., Lawrence, Kansas. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 28, is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that our file of the official proceedings of the annual conventions became exhausted, and by order of the convention we had them all reprinted, which of course, was at a great expense. You can readily appreciate, therefore, that we could not donate them, but we have placed the price for a full set at as low a figure as consistent with the expense incurred by the reprints. We can furnish you a set from 1881 to 1907 for $15.00. The AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST bound for each year we could let you have at the following figure: Vol. VIII - 1901 $3.00 Bound in two volumes. " IX - 1902 3.00 " " " " " X - 1903 3.50 " " " " " XI - 1904 3.50 " " " " " XII - 1905 3.50 " " " " " XIII - 1906 3.50 " " " " " XIV - 1907 3.50 " " " " " XV - 1908 3.50 " " " " We would be unable to furnish you with the volumes previous to the Eighth Volume. A duplicate set of all the pamphlets and leaflets published by this office is being sent to you under separate cover,[*772*] A. J. B. 2. which you will please accept with the compliments of the A. F. of L. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.773 M February 3, 1909. Mr. H. W. Lloyd, Organizer, 606 Charlotte St., Fredericksburg, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of February 1, is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say in reference to Federal Labor Union #11816, it will be necessary for them to make application for a new charter. If they have the old seal and books, the charter can be issued under the old number, so that they may be used. In that case the fee will be $5.00. If a new outfit is desired the fee will be $10.00. I enclose herein application blank, which should be filled in with the names of seven of the officers or members of the organization and forwarded to this office with the necessary fee. The application should also be accompanied with a statement as to the nature of the work performed by these men. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you further, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*774*] M February 3, 1909. Hon. M. R. Smith, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 31st ultimo is at hand, and beg to say that the February issue was a little late getting out, but no doubt you have received same ere this. If you have not received it when this letter reaches you, please advise. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*775*] M February 3, 1909. Mr. John F. Henry, Secretary, Central Labor Union, General Delivery, Lawrence, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 29, is received, and in compliance with your request I enclose to you herein copy of a circular which gives the commission allowed to agents for subscriptions to the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*776*] M February 3, 1909. Mr. W. J. Gilthorpe, Secretary, Brotherhood of Boilermakers and Iron Ship Builders, Room 314 Portsmouth Bldg., Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Cape Girardeau, Mo., in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city is not represented in the Central Trades and Labor Council. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*777*] M February 3, 1909. Mr. George W. Perkins, President, Cigarmakers International Union of America, Room 820, Monon Block, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Cape Girardeau, Mo. , in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city is not represented in the Central Trades and Labor Council. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.778 M February 3, 1909. Mr. W. J. Gilthorpe, Secretary, Boilmakers and Iron Ship Builders of America, Room 314, Portsmouth Bldg., Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from G. W. Finkler, First Vice-President of the Kansas State Federation of Labor, in which he advises me that the local union of your organization in Pittsburg, Kansas, is not represented in the Central Body of that city. I have advised Brother Winkler that I was taking the matter up with you, and would request that you urge upon your local the advisability and necessity of being represented central body of Pittsburg, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*779] M February 3, 1909. Mr. George Preston, Secretary, International Association of Machinists, McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from G. W. Winkler, First Vice-President of the Kansas State Federation of Labor, in which he advises me that the local union of your organization in Pittsburg, Kansas, is not represented in the Central Body of that city. I have advised Brother Winkler that I was taking the matter up with you, and would request that you urge upon your local the necessity and advisability of being represented in the central body of Pittsburg, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.780 M February 3, 1909. Mr. W. B. Beach, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, 107 North Painter Ave., Cape Girardeau, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 29th is at hand, and I note what you say relative to the local unions of Boilermakers and Cigarmakers not being represented in the Trades and Labor Council, and beg to say that I am taking up the matter with the secretaries of these respective international organizations, requesting them to urge upon their locals the necessity and advisability of being represented in the central body. With kinds regards, and hoping this may have the desired result, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.781 M February 3, 1909. Mr. John P. Atch[e]ley, P. O. Box 86, Trenton, N. J. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 27th is at hand, in which you state that you desire information to be used in a debate on the question of the "Open Shop vs. the Closed Shop. You do not state, however, which side you are to support in this debate, and of course, it is not to be expected that I should furnish you with information to used in debating against one of the cardinal principles of the organized labor movement. Let me hear from you further. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*782*] M February 3, 1909. Mr. G. W. Winkler, First Vice-President, Kansas State Federation of Labor, 1606 Michigan Ave., Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th ultimo is at hand, and I note what you say relative to the local unions of Boilermakers and Machinists not being represented in the United Trades and Labor Council of Pittsburg, and beg to say that I am taking this matter up with the respective International Secretaries requesting them to take this matter up with their locals, and urge upon them the advisability and necessity of being represented in the central body. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.783 X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. H. L. Denson, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local Union # 523, Box 295, North Yakima, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 27th to hand and contents noted. I beg to advise that at the recent meeting of the Executive Council, of the American Federation of Labor, at which the representatives of both sides of this Electrical Workers' controversy were present, this entire subject matter was thoroughly gone into. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.[*784*] X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. T. L. Mahan, Secretary, International Steel and Copper Plate Printers' Union of North America, 319 S. St., N. E., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the first instant received and contents noted.Needless to say I appreciate your letter very greatly, and am sending you a dozen copies of the appeal under separate cover. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, AmericanF ederation of Labor.785 X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. J. E. Porter, Recording Secretary, Dock and Cotton Men's Council, 822 Octavia Street, New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making, to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.786 X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. Daniel J. Carroll, Secretary, New Jersey State Conference of the B. & M. I. U. 31 Chestnut Street, Princeton, New Jersey. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgement of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making, to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*787*] X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. W. C. Steadman, Secretary, British Trades Union Congress, Parliamentary Committee, 42 Effingham House, Arundel Street, Strand, London, England. Dear Sir and Brother: I am sending you under separate cover specially bound copy of the proceedings of the last annual convention of the American Federation of Labor, which you will please accept with the compliments of the American Federation of Labor. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.788 X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. H. A. Stimson, Local Secretary-Treasurer, Order of the Railroad Telegraphers, Dakota Division, De Smet, South Dakota. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 29th duly received, in which you enclose manuscript on the union label which you desire printed in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, or if we cannot use it, that it be forwarded to the official journal of the United Garment Workers of America. I want to thank you for submitting the matter to me but as we are so crowded for space and have so many manuscripts now ah[r]ead, I cannot give you any definite assurance as to when we could use the manuscript you submit. I have therefore sent it to the Editor of the United Garment Workers' of America, and have requested him to write you direct in regard thereto. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*789*] X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. B. A. Larger, Secretary, United Garment Workers of America, 116-117 Bible House, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find a letter from Mr. H. A. Stimson, of De Smet, South Dakota, and duplicate copy of my reply, which will be self-explanatory. I would appreciate it if you would write to Mr. Stimson direct in regard to the manuscript which he submits for publication in either the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST or in your journal. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.790 The Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Chicago and Northwestern System Division #76, A. W. Tyner Local Secretary- Treasurer, Dakota Division, Elkton, S. D. COPY. De Smet, S. D., Jan 29, 1909. Samuel Gompers, Editor, American Federationist, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Find enclosed an article on the Union Label which I would like to have printed in the journal in which it will do the most good providing it is worthy of publication. If you cannot use it in the Federationist please forward to the United Garment Workers' General Office New York as it might interest them. Fraternally, (signed) H. A. Stimson, L. S. & T. O. R. T.[*791*] X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, General Manager, Lincoln Farm Association, 74 Broadway, New York City. My dear Mr. Pierce: Replying to your telegram of today, Mr. Gompers will be glad to see you at four o'clock on Friday afternoon. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. [*792*] X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. Howard C. Hull, Secretary, Ashville Typographical Union #263, Ashville, North Carolina. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the first instant to hand and contents noted. I have talked the matter over with Secretary Morrison as to the state of the Federation funds, and for the life of me I do not see how we could arrange it now so as to comply with your request for the appointment of a special organizer for the state of North Carolina. The funds of the Federation, so Secretary Morrison informs me, are at a low ebb by reason of which it has been necessary for us to discontinue some of the men who have been at work. We have received request after request from the national and international unions and the state federations of la[n]bor for the appointment of special organizers and for assistance in legislative work, to all of which for the reasons just stated I have been compelled to reply as above. If circumstances so shape themselves later on as to permit compliance with your request, you can rest assured that we will gladly do so. Regretting exceedingly that the circumstances are such as to compel me to write as above, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.793 X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. Samuel Waldrop, Secretary, North Carolina State Federation of Labor, Ashville, North Carolina. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the first instant to hand and contents noted. I have just received a similar letter from the Secretary of Typographical Union #263 of your city, and I enclose you a copy of my reply to him, asking that you accept it as equally addressed to you. I regret exceedingly that I am unable to comply with your request, but you will understand the circumstances from the enclosed copy of letter. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*794*] COPY Washington, D. C., Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. Howard C. Hull, Secretary, Ashville Typographical Union #263, Ashville, North Carolina. Dear Sir and Brother: With favor of the first instant to hand and contents noted. I have talked the matter over with Secretary Morrison as to the state of the Federation funds, and for the life of me I do not see how we could arrange it now so as to comply with your request for the appointment of a special organizer for the state of North Carolina. The funds of the Federation, so Secretary Morrison informs me, are at a low ebb by reason of which it has been necessary for us to discontinue some of the men who have been at work. We have received request after request from the national and international unions and the state fe[?]erations of labor for the appointment of special organizers and for assistance in legislative work, to all of which for the reasons j[j]ust stated I have been compelled to reply as above. If circumstances so shape themselves later on as to permit compliance with your request, you can rest assured that we will gladly do so. Regretting exceedingly that the circumstances are such as to compel me to write as above, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor.795 X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. William D. Williams, Wheat Building, Fort Worth, Texas. Dear sir: Your favor of January 30th has been duly received and contents noted. I beg to assure you that I fully appreciate all that you say in regard to Organizer Woodman, and from time to time, whenever circumstances warranted, he has acted as the special representative of the American Federation of Labor in Fort Worth and vicinity! However, as to appointing him now, or for that matter anyone else, as special organizer, that is absolutely out of the question, for we have not the funds at our command with which to defray the expenses incurred. I think I am within the bounds of actual fact when I say that never a day passes that I do not receive one or more requests from various sections of the country for the appointment of special orgaizers. Many of the men whose appointments are thus sought I know to be tried, true, staunch trade unionists, and who would accomplish much good in the interest of our movement, but you must understand that the Federation is extremely limited as to funds, and no matter how much we may desire to broaden and extend the work we cannot go any further than the funds at our command will warrant. I read with great interest the account of the fight against[*796*] Mr. William D. Williams -2- your nomination for mayor of Fort Worth. I know that it must be very gratifying to you. I want to thank you for the sentiment you express in the concluding paragraph of your letter in regard to the recent court decision. We are standing firm and expect to continue to make a strong, determined and dignified fight for what we believe to be justice and right. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Remember me kindly to Bro. and Mrs. & [niss] Miss Woodman.[*797*] X. Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. M. Brown, Secretary, Cigarmakers' Union #144, 190 Bowery, Cor. Spring Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the first instant, I beg to give you the name and address of the concern in Chicago which manufactures the remedy we have found so effective in rheumatism. They are as followed: Theo. Noel Company, Vitae-Ore Building, Chicago, Ill. With best wishes, that the stuff will help Mrs. Brown I am, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers President, American Federation of Labor. You should check for $2 50/100 which pays for 3 [pa][*798] X. Feb. [?] 1909. Mr. Chas. Crowley, Secretary, Pavers' Union No. 1, 229 E. 47th St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting held in this city January 11-16, having under consideration the subject matter of your appeal against the Central Federation Union of New York City, your appeal, and the appeal of Local #44, United Upholsterers Union of New York, and Grain Workers' Union #11407, against the action of the Central Federated Union of New York City, deferred action until the next meeting of the Executive Council, which will be held in this city April 15th, the Central Federated Union in the meantime to be furnished with copies of these appeals and requested to make answer to the Executive Council either in person or by letter. The Secretary of the Central Federated Union has been so advised and at the same time furnished with copies of the three appeals, and you will please accept this letter as official notification of the Executive Council in this case. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.799 X. Feb. 1 1909. Mr. A. F. Schmid, Secretary, Local #44, United Upholsterers Union of New York, Groll's Hall, 145-147 E. 53d. St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting held in this city January 11-16, having under consideration the subject matter of your appeal against the Central Federated Union of New York City, your appeal, and the appeal of Pavers' Union #1, Grain Workers' Union #11407, [XXX] against the action of the Central Federated Union of New York City, deferred action until the next meeting of the Executive Council, which will be held in this city April 15th, the Central Federated Union in the meantime to be furnished with copies of these appeals and requested to make answer to the Executive Council either in person or by letter. The Secretary of the Central Federated Union has been so advised and at the same time furnished with copies of the three appeals, and you will please accept this letter as official notification of the Executive Council in this case. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*800] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Ernest Bohm, Secretary, Grain Workers' Union #11407, 210 5th St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting held in this city January 11-16, having under consideration the subject matter of your appeal against the Central Federated Union of New York City, your appeal, and the appeal of Pavers' Union #1, and [XXXXX] Upholsterers' Local #44, against the action of the Central Federated Union of New York City, deferred action until the next meeting of the Executive Council, which will be held in this city April 15th, the Central Federated Union in the meantime to be furnished with copies of these appeals and requested to make answer to the Executive Council either in person or by letter. The Secretary of the Central Federated Union has been so advised and at the same time furnished with copies of the three appeals, and you will please accept this letter as official notification of the Executive Council in this case. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.801 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. James O'Connell, President, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: Please find enclosed copy of letter I have this day written to Mr. D. J. Tobin, President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which is self-explanatory, and which I ask you to accept as equally addressed to yourself, relative to the jurisdictional claim over Chauffeurs. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.802 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. J. C. Balhorn, President, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Drawer 199, Lafayette, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Please find enclosed copy of letter I have this day written to Paperhangers' Local Union #490, which is self-explanatory, and which you will please accept as equally addressed to you and act in conformity therewith. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*803*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. WHEN REPLYING REFER TO RESOLUTION #65. Mr. E. Jackson Snyder, Secretary, Paperhangers' Local Union #490, 232 W. 120th Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council [xxx] of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration was resolution #65 of the Denver convention of the American Federation of Labor, in regard to the differences existing between the Paperhangers and the Brotherhood of Painters, Decora- tors and Paperhangers of America. The entire subject matter of this resolution, together with the correspondence which has passed since the Denver convention was carefully discussed and considered and the following was the conclusion reached: "We reiterate our declaration that the conditions upon which amalgamation was effected between the organizations should be adhered to in fact and in spirit. Every effort should be made to have the declaration carried out and faithfully adhered to. The Executive Council discountenances the effort on the part of the Paperhangers' to leave the Brotherhood, as we believe that the Paper Hangers in order to secure their rights should participate in the proceedings of their organization." With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.804 x. Feb. 1, 1909 Mr. D. A. Hayes, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 930 Witherspoon Bldg. Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Please find enclosed a copy of letter which have this day written to Secretary Kaefer of the Stove Mounters' International Union, which is self-explanatory, and which I ask you to accept as equally addressed to yourself. Please keep me advised in regard to this matter, and if you can attend the proposed conference. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 805 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Please find enclosed a copy of letter which I have this day written to Secretary Kaefer of the Stove Mounters' International Union, which is self-explanatory, and which I ask you to accept as equally addressed to yourself. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.806 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. John E. Bray, Secretary, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' Alliance, Nelson Building, Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Please find enclosed copy of letter which I have this day written to Secretary Kaefer of the Stove Mounters' International Union, which is self-explanatory, and which I ask you to accept as equally addressed to yourself. Kindly let me hear from your organization in regard to the proposed conference at your early convenience. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.807 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. J. H. Kaefer, Secretary, Stove Mounters' International Union, 166 Concord Ave., Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its recent meeting, having under further consideration the subject matter of the Stove Mounters' International Union and the Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers International Alliance, authorized the undersigned to communicate with you and with the officers of the Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' suggesting that a conference between your respective representatives be held at Cincinnati at a time mutually agreeable and convenient, for the purpose of adjusting the matters of difference between you, and that Vice-President Valentine should participate in this conference, and also Vice-President Hayes, if he can make it convenient to do so. I would like you therefore to advise me at your early convenience when it would be agreeable to you to go to Cincinnati for the purpose above indicated. I am writing a letter similar to this to the Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' and also to Vice-Presidents Hayes and Valentine. Hoping to receive your early reply, with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.[*808*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. When Replying Refer to Resolution #20. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Among other matters receiving the attention of the Executive Council at its recent meeting, was the subject matter of Resolution #20 of the Denver convention, introduced by delegates from United House Shorers' Union #7417, urging the revocation of the charter of the Sewer and Subway Timbermen's Union #12669, the representatives of local #7417 appearing before the Executive Council in behalf of the resolution. The matter was carefully considered and it was decided that you as the representative of the American Federation of Labor should take the matter up and arrange to have the membership of Local #12669 transfer to Local #7417. You will therefore please accept this letter as official notification of the action of the Council in this case, and act in conformity therewith. You will not, of course, fail to keep me advised fully in regard to the matter. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*809*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Wm. J. Spencer, Secretary, Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., 423 Colorado Bldg., City. Dear Sir and Brother: Among other matters receiving the attention of the Executive Council at its recent meeting, was your letter of December 31st, in which you transmitted action of the Denver convention of the Building Trades Department upon the question of the issuance of State charters. Beg to advise you that the Executive Council deferred action upon this matter until the next meeting, which will be held in this city April 12th. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*810*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. D. J.Tobin, President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, 147 Market Street, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Among other matters receiving the attention of the Executive Council at its recent meeting, was the application made by your Brotherhood for change in title to "International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, and Helpers." The matter was given careful consideration and the Executive Council recommended that a conference be held between the representatives of your Brotherhood and the representatives of the International Association of Machinists, for the purpose of endeavoring to reach some mutually satisfactory understanding as to your respective claims of jurisdiction, the result of your conference to be reported to the next meeting of the Executive Council. I would suggest, therefore, that you take this matter up direct with President O'Connell of the International Association of Machinists, to whom I am also writing by this mail, transmitting a duplicate copy of this letter to you. Asking you to keep me advised in regard to the above, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*811*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. James Bronson Reynolds, Chairman, Executive Council, Friends of Russian Freedom, 500 Fifth Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir: In continuation of my letter to you of January 2d., in regard to the matter of extradition of political refugees in this country, particularly with reference to Jan Pouren of Russia, I beg to advise you that during the meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, held in this city January 11-16, inclusive, the members of the Council had an interview with President Roosevelt upon this subject, the discussion lasting over an hour. We submitted to the President memorandum of the case. I am now in receipt of a letter from the Secretary to the President in which he transmitted copy of a letter from ex-Secretary Root, who was then Secretary of State, of which the enclosed are copies. It is my purpose and desire to be of the very best possible assistance in this matter, and I have so advised the Pouren Defense Conference. If there are any further suggestions which your committee cares to offer, I shall be pleased to hear from you further. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*812*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Harry Eichelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 1427 W. Franklin St., Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Jan. 26th in regard to the matter of Stereoptican views of union labels, illustrated lectures, etc., was placed before the Executive Council at its meeting held in this city Jan. 11-16, and by the Executive Council referred to the Union Label Conference, which was held in this city Jan. 22-23. It was decided at this union label conference to call a conference or convention of the representatives of all the union label trade organizations to meet in this city on March 3d, 1909. The various union label organizations have been invited to meet here on that date for the consideration of forming a union label department of the American Federation of Labor, and also for the consideration of other matters of interest to the union label trades. Your letter will be submitted to that conference. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*813*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. James Kirby, President, Building Trades Department, 423 Colorado Bldg., City. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council, among other matters receiving consideration was that of the Electrical Workers, the representatives of both sides being in attendance. In connection therewith, the Executive Council directed that the officers of the Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor should be advised of the action of the Council in the Electrical Workers' matter, particularly that your Department may co-operate along the lines of the decision reached. The decision in brief, is that inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support.[*814*] Mr. Jas. Kirby --2-- With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*815*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Ernest Bohm, Secretary, Central Federated Union, 210 5th St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its recent meeting having under consideration the subject matter of the appeals of Pavers' Union #1, United Upholsterers Union #44, and Grain Workers Union #11407, against the Central Federated Union, deferred action until the next meeting of the Executive Council, which will be held in this city April 15th. In the meantime, I beg to hand you herewith copies of these three appeals so that the several matters may be considered by the Central Federated Union and reply be made to the next meeting of the Executive Council. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*816*] COPY. PAVERS' UNION No. 1. New York City, Oct. 28, 1908. To the American Federation of Labor, Samuel Gompers, President, 423-425 G St., N. W., Washington, D. C. Gentlemen: In reference to the appeal heretofore filed with you, by Mr. Thomas Rock, a member of our union, and our delegate to the Central Federated Union of New York, from the action and determinations of said Central Federated Union and its committee and officers, we hereby approve of the appeal made by him therefrom, and we hereby in his behalf take appeal from such decisions and determinations of the Central Federated Union in his behalf. Gentlemen, we know Brother Thomas Rock for years as a zealous and honest union man and an untiring and lifelong worker for organized labor, and we know him to be too honorable to be guilty of any of the charges brought against him and that he will in his appeal against the action of the New York Central Federated Union prove his entire innocence to your Executive Council of any charges brought against him. Yours very truly, Pavers' Local Union #1 of New York, (Signed) Chas. Crowley, Rec. Sec., 1362 Leland Ave., Bronx, New York.[*817*] COPY. GRAIN WORKERS UNION #11407. New York, October 11, 1908. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, and the Members of the Executive Council, American Federation of Labor. Dear Sirs and Brothers: At a regular meeting of this chartered organization Oct. 11th, 1908, the following appeal of our deledate to the Central Federated Union, Ernest Bohm, against that body was read and endorsed, and this organization decided to appeal to your honorable Council against the decision of the Central Federated Union, and prays you that justice and fair play will prevail. Fraternally, (Signed) T. Hickey, President, Ernest Bohm, Secretary. "In March, 1905, a meeting alleged to be called under the auspices of the Central Federated Union was held at the Murray Hill Lyceum 23d. St. near 3d. Ave., N. Y. C. At a subsequent investigation it was shown, that this meeting had not been authorized by the Central Federated Union but that a committee had been appointed at the request of the United Portable and Safety Engineers Union #184, for the purpose of securing work at that time for the unemployed. The meeting above referred to was the result. The Central Federated Union a week or two following the said meeting denounced the same as unauthorized. Shortly thereafter a committee to investigate was appointed which finally reported in effect that as some innocent men would be injured and the meeting had been condemned, to drop the matter, which was agreed to. In February, 1908, the case was re-opened it being alleged that delegate [Y]T. Healy of the Int' Bro. Firemen, had a meeting of the[*819*] Grain Workers --2-- Brooklyn Central Labor Union during a discussion, mentioned five delegates of the Central Federated Union as having received $9000. to arrange the Murray Hill Lyceum meeting. The names were given as Hatch, DeVeaux, McCabe, Daly, and Quinn or Quinlan. Another committee to investigate was then appointed. This committee reported finding our delegate Bohm with some others guilty. The testimony in Bohm's case was that he had attended the said meeting and sat upon the platform. This was never denied as it was a public meeting, had been so advertised in the N. Y. World as being held by the committee of the C. F. U. One Walter S. Meeks swore, that Bohm had also attended a meeting of the C. F. U. on a Sunday. Mr. Bohm was not a member of that committee, he had absolutely no reason for attending, and he made affidavit that he had not attended any such meeting on that Sunday or at any other time, either at McCabe's house or any other. Mr. Bohm demanded that the testimony of said Weeks be corroborated by at least one other which could not be done. Mr. Quinn, a former chairman of the C. F. U., so the testimony alleged, testified that he had attended a meeting at a place called Dumb Bell Hall and found some 50-60 delegates of the C. F. U. in attendance. Among those present, the testimony alleged, was Bohm. This Bohm absolutely denied and demanded that at least one other witness corroborate this testimony. Not one did. On September 28th, 1908, Mr. Bohm met Mr. Quinn on the Bowery bear 4th St. and asked him as to this testimony. Mr. Quinn at once denied that he had given any such testimony, but had mentioned that Mr. Henry Bohn, a member of his union, the Coppersmiths Union, had attended the said meeting with him. Delegate T. Healy testified, that during the first investigation Bohm had come to him and asked him to pull off, saying that[*819*] Grain Workers --3-- he would do himself injury and would be driven from the labor movement. The facts are that the first investigation created so much ill-feeling, dragged a long for weeks, that the delegates discussed the matter in groups after sessions, and in listening to such discussions Bohm found a sentiment not friendly to Healy. This actuated him after finding that Healy was pushing the investigation, to go to him, talk the matter over, and finally make use of the words as stated. No one asked Bohm to do this. It is doubtful whether anybody knew that Healy was interested. It was not the first time that Bohm had spoken to Healy on other matters of interest to Healy and he thought nothing wrong in the premises about this incident until the recent investigation committee seemed to lay great strees upon the words. Mr. Healy is not the first nor only person that Mr. Bohm has advised. In this instance it was done without any hidden motive. It was done simply in an endeavor to avoid a possible clash between two opposites. It might not be amiss to say that at this investigation Mr. Healy asked Mr. Bohm if he would certify to this, and Bohm readily consented. Bro. Bohm had absolutely no interest in that meeting, either directly or indirectly, and the testimony presented does not so connect him. The chief witness Weeks, admitted publicly at a meeting of the C. F. U. in July, that he had dishonestly taken money from the C. F. U. and the Marine Trades Council. We submit that in a case of this kind where a man is to be ostracised from the labor movement, in all justice and fair play, there should be stronger, more efficient and substantial evidence presented than from such a source, and witness. Mr. Bohm has not been charged in the $9000. matter, but implicated in attending a public meeting. A. J. Boulton[*820*] Grain Workers --4-- was chairman of that meeting and W. S. Weeks the secretary. Mr. Bohm was actuated in attending the public meeting out of curiosity because a short time before the C. F. U. had arranged a meeting at Beethoven Hall to arouse sentiment in the Slocum disaster which meeting had been a frost. The Murray Hill meeting being alleged to have been under the C. F. U. auspices, and so published in the press, he attended to see if this meeting would be any better attended. He remained but 25 minutes at the most. Mr. Bohm has been in the labor movement since he was 17 years old and has remained active ever since holding many responsible positiond within it, and has never before been placed in any such position. He organized this union. He has held the office of Corresponding Secretary of the C. F. U. ever since the amalgamation of the Central Labor Union and the Central Labor Federation, which is now the Central Federated Union, and never had any opposition at any election to this office until this September when he was re-elected beating his opponent and receiving 83 votes to 46 out of 129 cast."[*821*] COPY. UNITED UPHOLSTERERS UNION OF NEW YORK, Local 44, New York City, Jan. 9, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In behalf of local Union #44 affiliated with the Upholsterers Int'l union of N. A. I submit an appeal to the Executive Committee of the A. F. of L., against the actions, decisions and penalty of the Central Federation Union of New York City, on account of the actions of said Central Federated Union concerning the investigation of a Committee appointed by the Central Federated Union to investigate alleged to have been made by Delegate Timothy Healy, of the Int'l Firemen's Union Local #56 of New York City. The alleged statements were made upon the floor of the Brooklyn Central Body on Sunday, February 9th, 1908, in open meeting. The appeal sent in by Bro. Hatch,dated Sept. 9th, 1918, and addressed to the Executive Committee of the A. F. of L., a copy of which I enclose, fully covers the matter. We understood that all matters affecting the interest of a local union would have to be presented through their International Body, that was the reason the appeal came direct from Bro. Hatch, who happened to be the General President, of the Int'l Union, as well as the party involved in this case. The appeal sent in by Bro. Hatch was fully endorsed by the members of our union without a dissenting vote, a special meeting was called for that purpose, copies of the evidence upon which the Committee of the Central Federated Union based their findings, were obtained from the C. F. U. and they were submitted to a special committee of our union for investigation, and it is the unanimous opinion of the committee and the members of our union after all of the evidence has been read, that deliberate plot had been entered into by certain delegates of the Central Federated Union for the purpose of injuring the reputation and standing of Bro. Hatch, in the labor movement. We have submitted the evidence to our Attorney and he advised us to proceed against them for Criminal Conspiracy as he stated that in all of his experience he had never come across a case that would equal this for a display of deliberate malice. Bro. Hatch has served men of our craft through this country long and faithfully, we know him well and there is no one in the labor movement we hold in greater esteem. We propose to spare neither time nor money to clear his name of the charges that have been made against him by the Political Ring of the C. F. U. In closing I wish to state that all we want is fair play and we ask no favors, but we do ask that this matter be adjusted at once so that Bro. Hatch can have an opportunity of facing his defamers before a body of men who will be guided in their decisions in accordance to the evidence submitted. Fraternally yours, (Signed) A. F. Schmid, Secretary, Local Union #44822 COPY. New Y_rk, Sept. 9, 1908. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In accordance with Article 12, Section 8, Constitution of American Federation of Labor, I herewith file notice of appeal to the Executive Council against the actions, decisions and penalty of the Central Federated Union of New York City, on account of the actions of the said Central Federated Union concerning the recent investigation of a committee appointed by the Central Federated Union to investigate the statements alleged to have been made by Timothy Healy, Delegate of International Firemen's Union Local #56 of New York City. The alleged statements of delegate Healy were made upon the floor of the Brooklyn Central Labor Union on Sunday, Feb' 9th, 1908, in open meeting. The statements were to the effect that Delegate Jas. H. Hatch of the Upholsters Union had arranged with the assistance of four other labor men whose names were also mentioned by Healy, to hold a mass meeting in the Murray Hill Lyceum Hall, in the month of March, 1905. Healy stated that the men whose names he had mentioned had called the meeting in the interests of the Railway Traction Corporation and that they received $9,000.00 for holding said meeting. Delegates Devaux and Hatch, two of the men accused by Healy, demanded an investigation, and asked that the Central Federated Union of New York City appoint a committee to investigate the whole matter. After the Committee was appointed and during the couse of their investigation a motion was made to have the same Committee investigate the Murray Hill Lyceum mass-meeting and the actions of labor men in the political campaign of 1906. It was received by the Central Federated Union when the Committee on Investigation was appointed that all evidence brought before the Committee was to be sworn to before a notary public. When the Committee reported their findings to the Central Federated Union it was clearly shown by sworn affidavits that the Committee had not carried out the mandates of the body that created them, as they had based their findings on evidence of men who refused to swear to the statements made by them During the couse of the investigation of the Murray Hill mass-meeting, I was summoned as a witness before the Committee on Investigation, as I was Chairman of the Central Federated Union at the time the mass-meeting in question was held. I appointed a Committee at the request of a Delegate of Engineers Union Local #184. The Minutes of the Central Federated Union show that this Committee was appointed by request and in the regular manner. The Minutes also show that they were appointed for the purpose of devising ways and means to compel the city officials to open up some work that was then being held up, so as to give employment to the men who were idle at that time. It appears that the so-called fake mass-meeting followed the appointment of this Committee. I was not a member of the Committee, had no connection with the meeting held in the Murray Hill Lyceum, nor was I present at said meet-823 ---2---- ing. But the findings of the Investigation Committee appointed by the Central Federated Union are as follows: Chairman Hatch appointed the Committee and thereby served the interests, and is not clear of the meeting. In the case of Healy concerning his statements on the floor of the Central Federated Union of Brooklyn, they stated that the evidence was conflicting and the case was recommended by the Investigating Committee to be dropped. This was put to an aye and nay vote and the reports of the Committee concurred in. In the case of the men who were accused of participating in the Murray:Hill mass-meeting, a secret ballot was taken, we protested against this cowardly method of voting, as it was the first instance on record that a secret ballot was taken upon the floor of the Central Federated Union we knew its object, and we knew we were to be jobbed by the Black Horse Cavalry of the Labor movement. Results showed that we were right in our opinion. During the couse of te investigation of the Murray Hill meeting, Delegate Healy of the Int. Firemen's Union Local #56 appeared before the Committee. He made a lengthy statement accusing Hatch and others with participating in the Murray Hill meeting, and of receiving money from Chairman Woodruff of the Republican County Committee in the political campaign of 1906. He mentioned a lot of other stuff that only a brain like Healy's or Orchard.s could devise when engaged on a commission of character assassination. Healy was asked by Hatch when he finished his statement if he (Healy) would swear to the statement he had just made or any part of it. Healy replied that he would not. Healy stated that all of the matter he had given to the Committee was told to him by other people including John N. Parsons and Herbert Jennings. Hatch asked Harris, Chairman of the Investigation Committee if he (Healy) was going to stand for that kind of a story. Harris replied that if the statements made by Healy could not be substantiated it would be stricken from the minutes. John N. Parsons, Postmaster of Yonkers, N. Y., and formerly head of one of the factions of the Knights of Labor, and according to his own admission before the committee, he was confidential man eight years for Lemuel Quigg, a well known Corporation Lobbyist. Parsons statement in Healy's Presence before the Committee completely exonerated Hatch from any connection with the mass meeting held in the Murray Hill Lyceum and he showed very clearly that Healy had put his own construction on matter discussed between Healy and Parsons. Parsons is an intimate friend of Healy and the balance of the gang that goes to make up the Healy brigade. Healy's object was to have Parsons connect Hatch in some way with the mass meeting. Several weeks later Parsons again appeared before the Committee and added the following paragraph to his original statement – that in his, Parsons, opinion, Quigg hat got Hatch, McCabe and Daily. I was not present when the added statement was made and was never notified by the Committee about it and therefore never given an opportunity to defend myself or disprove this statement. But this same investigation----3-- Com. reported this matter to the C. F. U. and based their findings upon this class of evidence. Healy's statement concerning what Herbert Jennings, a saloon keeper was supposed to have told him, was never verified, Jennings never appeared before the Committee. But after the Committee on Investigation commenced to tender their report to the C. F. U. and Jennings heard of his name being used by Healy, he swore to an affidavit before a notary public absolutely denying that which Healy claimed that he, Jennings, had told to Healy. But a little thing like a sworn affidavit never for one minute was allowed to interfere or interrupt the farce that was being enacted on the C. F. U. The framed up job to defame certain delegates who stood in the way of the political Night Riders of the Labor Movement in that body, a sacrifice had to be made to establish the fact that certain people had the body in the hollow of their hands, and none dare oppose them. II order to save the men who were behind the plot to discredit certain delegates, and to avoid placing themselves within reach of the laws of this country for criminal conspiracy, they copied the methods of the mine owners Association of Idaho. So they introduced as the star witness a perjurer, one Walter S. Weeks, formerly connected with the Boiler Makers and Iron SHip Builders Union. He is well, but not favorably known by them. He was also secretary of the Marine Trades Council of New York City, and was expelled by that Body for accepting $200.00 graft of the American Federation Magazine, Jan, 1907. His statement before the investigating committee showed that he was well coached, he was there to defame certain men and he never allowed his memory or recollection to go beyond them, in all the events that he so aptly described he could remember only those he wished to involve. His statements were absolutely false in every particular and it was so proven in every particular by all who appeared before the Committee. But of course that made no difference – the Committee accepted his statement in preference to the statement of all other witnesses who appeared. In order to further elevate the labor movement in the eyes of the people of this community, this man Weeks was accorded the privilege of the floor at a regular meeting of the C. F. U. He informed the delegates, visitors and newspaper reporters who were present that he had been a grafter he had sold the C. F. U. for $15.00 during the time he was a delegate to the C. F. U., he had sold the Marine Trades Council for $200.00, but now he had reformed he was sorry for what he had done, he was now a different man and in order to prove his statement he described how he and a few other reformers had beat up some men the night before in the city of Newark, N. J. and sent them to the hospital, he also described how expert he was with a black jack and a gun.825 ----4---- He was cheered to be echo by the delegates of the Body, the reception he received would have made the other well known reformer Orchard turn green with envy. Orchard must feel that he operated in the wrong end of the United States of America. He was looked upon with contempt by Trades Unionists out west, but had he been within the boundary of the C. F. U. he may have been canonized as a hero, and still we wonder when Post of Grape Nut Fame, receives his inspirations for his description of the Labor Leader as portrayed by him in the daily papers. The committee on Investigation interviewed Jas. B. Reynolds and Tim Woodruff in reference to my connections with the Republican campaign of 1906 in this city. Mr. Reynolds is as I understand it, a sort of stool pigeon for the Roosevelt administration. He claims to have been sent to New York City to handle the Labor men in this city, and that handling of labor men is his capital in trade, he has earned a livelihood by telling politicians how he can deliver the labor vote. He appeared before the committee and the statement attributed to him in reference to me and others was accepted by the Committee, we were given no opportunity of facing this cad. The interview the Committee had with Woodruff, Chairman of the Republican County Co, we were not present to face Woodruff and when Woodruff was taged as to what he said at that interview, he wrote a letter giving his statement which was entirely different from what the committee claimed he had told them. But I believe eventually the Committee saw their way clear to convict us on the grounds that we talked with a politician during the political campaign. The damage done by the notoriety and the cry of graft raised by this case has done myself and family irreparable damage as well as the Union I represent. Nothing within the power of the Executive committee can completely wipe out this, the impression created in the minds of those who have heard the manufactured stories, But so far as my organization is concerned I [??ant] vindication at the hands of the Executive Committee and I feel quite positive That I will receive the same after the case has been fully investigated by you. So far as I am personally concerned as a private individual, I will look after the part myself. I will more than repay the gang that is back of this plot and in their own coin. Inconclusion I want to pretest for the following reasons First: according to Article I2- section #8 A. F. of L. constitution, no charges were made against me nor was I notified at any time to appear before the Central Federated Union or a committee of the same to answer charges. Second: The Constitution of the Central Federated Union under the heading of Impeachments, provides how charges against delegates shall be tried. This section was violated in my case. Third: Witnesses were heard by the investigating committee and evidence accepted by said court and the men accused or impli----5-- cated by said evidence were not modified to be present, nor given an opportunity to face their accusers. Fourth: The evidence accepted by the investigation committee was not in accord with the resolution of the Central Federated Union which provided that all evidence should be sworn to before a notary public. Evidence accepted was not sworn to. Fifth: The findings of the investigation committee was not warranted according to the evidence submitted to them. Sixth: The manner in which the case was handled by the Central Federated Union was a direct violation of their own Constitution, every right guaranteed by the Constitution both of the Central Federated Union and the American Fede of Labor was denied the defendants in this case. The above matter constitute my appeal to the executive Council of the American Federation of Labor. Hoping the same will receive prompt attention and that the stain cast upon my reputation will be wiped out and justice rendered to all, I am, with best wishes. Fraterally yours, Delegate of Local #44, General President of Upholsters International Union, C. N. A. 827 M February 3, 1909. Mr. Paul S. Shephard, 911 Union St., Northfield, Minn. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 24th is at hand, in which you state your desire some material for a college debate in regard to the use and right of the injunction. In reply thereto I beg to say that in my reports to the Conventions of 1893-97-98-99-1900-01-02, '05-06-07-08 I also dealt with the subject of injunctions, but the only copies of these reports that I have are included in the official bound proceedings of these conventions. Editorially I have dealt with this subject as follows: 1897, Sept. Injunctions unrespected as a Factor in Strikes. They must go. 1898, Nov. Injunctions and Strikes. 1900, June Judge Freeman's Notorious Injunction. 1900, July The Happiness Not to Know. 1900, Nov. English Hostility to Injunctions. 1901, June More Abuse of the Injunction. 1901, Sept. Rights Acieved must be maintained. Judicial Usurpation of Legislative Functions. It even Nauseates the Press. 1901, Nov. The Right of Persuasion. 1902, March A Worthy Judicial Exception. 1902, April Anti-Injunction Legislation. 1902, May Conflicting Judicial Decisions. 1902, June, Injunctions Can't Restrain Free Speech. 1903, May New Judicial Usurpation Through Injunctions. 1904, Feb. Invading Labor's Rights. 1904, March Misrepresenting the Anti-Injunction Bill.828 [?]. S. S. 2. 1904, May The Injunction Mania. 1905, March Some Notions on Injunction Legislation. 1905, July Jenkins on Injunctions and Strikes. A Just Court Decision. 1905, Nov. No Property Right in Labor. 1906, Jan. Two Courts on Picketing. 1906, Feb. Development in Injunction Fight. 1906, March Judge Holden's Injunction Frenzy. 1906, April, The Injunction in Labor Disputes Must Go. 1906, July Injunctions extended. Where Next? 1906, Oct. A Fair Injunction Decision – Labor Aims to make it the the Law of the Land. 1907, Jan. Judicial Perversion of Law Against Labor. 1907, April Congressional Juggling and Sophistry with the Injunction Issue. 1907, June The Congressional Court Decisions. 1907, Oct. Federal Injunctions Jolted. Labor's Contention Justified. Taft the Injunction Standard Bearer. 1907, Nov. Taft The Injunction Candidate. 1908, Feb. Free Press and Free Speech Invaded by Injunction against the A. F. of L. – A Review and Protest. 1908, July Judge Upholds Labor's Injunction Contention. 1908, Aug. The Essence of Labor's Contention on Injunctions. 1908, Sept. The Cry for More (In) Equity. In the July 1904, issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is an article by Edward J. Livernash, entitled – "INJUNCTIONS – WHY THEY SHOULD NOT APPLY." In the May issue of 1904, is published a Thesis on Injunctions, by William Velpau Rooker. In the May issue, 1906, is published an argument by Andrew Furuseth before the Judiciary Committee on the Anti-Injunction Bill March 14, 1906, giving the essential principles of protest against injunctions in labor disputes. These three articles are particularly interesting. I should like to send you copies of the magazine containing all of these matters, but I have none, except in the complete bond volume of each year. Then again, when the A. F. of L. Anti-Injunction Bill829 P. S. 3. was considered by the judiciary committee of the House and the Judiciary Committee of the e in the last three or four Congresses, the representatives of the A. F. of L., including the undersigned, made extensive amounts in support of labors contentions. These arguments are published in the Senate and House documents of these bearings. You might be able to secure copies of the through the representative from your district. I should be glad to furnish you copies myself, but have only a few for the records of this office. Under separate cover I am sending you copy of a document entitled "Injunction Data Filed by Samuel Gompers" which relates to this subject. You will bear in mind, however, the fact that the injunction cases thus collected are not by means all of the injunctions that have been issued in labor disputes, but merely the most important ones. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.830 M February 4, 1909 Mr. James Brown, Organizer, 2202 East Main St., Richmond, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I be to say that your commission was renewed and forwarded to you January 31, 1909 and if you do not receive same kindly advise us. With Kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.831 M February 4, 1909. Mr. Philip Neale, Secretary, Operative Plasterera Int'l Association, Box 27, Asheville, N. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2nd instant is at hand and contents noted. I have talked the matter over with Secretary Morrison as to the state of the Federation funds, and for the life of me I do not see how we could arrange it now so as to comply with your request for the appointment of a special organizer for the State of North Carolina. The funds of the Federation, so Secretary Morrison informs me are at a low ebb by reason of which it has been necessary for us to discontinue some of the men who have been at work. We have received request after request from the national and international unions and the state federations of labor for the appointment of special organizers and for assistance in legislative work, to all of which for the reasons just stated I have been compelled to really as above. If circumstances so shape themselves later on as to permit compliance with your request, you can rest assured that we will gladly do so. Regretting exceedingly that circumstances are such as to compel me to write as above, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President A. F. of L.832 M February 4, 1909. Mr. B.E. Ellerkamp, Secretary, Local #132, Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, New Windsor Hotel, Asheville, N.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2nd instant is at hand and contents noted. I have talked the matter over with Secretary Morrison as to the state of the Federation funds, and for the life of me I do not see how we could arrange it now so as to comply with your request for the appointment of a special organizer for the State of North Carolina. The funds of the Federation, so Secretary Morrison informs me are at a low ebb by reason of which it has been necessary for us to discontinue some of the men who have been at work. We have received request after request from the national and international unions and the state federations of labor for the appointment of special organizers and for assistance in legislative work, to all of which for the reasons just stated I have been compelled to reply as above. If circumstances so shape themselves later on as to permit compliance with your request, you can rest assured that we will gladly do so. Regretting exceedingly that circumstances are such as to compel me to write as above, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.833 M February 4, 1909. Mr. John F. McNamee, Editor and Manager, Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen's Magazine, Traction Terminal Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 2nd instant I beg to say that I am sending to you under separate cover copy of Judge Wright's decision, as published in pamphlet form. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.834 M February 4, 1909. Mr. I. L. Johns, Shaw University, Raleigh, N.C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 28th ultimo, addressed to our New York office has been forwarded here, in which you state that you desire some information and material on the following question: "Resolved, That there should be a National Board of Arbitration to settle all disputes arising between employer and employe when such disputes terminate in strikes." Replying thereto I beg to say that the American Federation of Labor has declared in favor of voluntary arbitration, and is opposed to compulsory arbitration. It may not be amiss to call your attention to a statement which I made in an address before the Arbitration Conference held in Chicago, December 17, 1900, which is as follows: "Arbitration is only possible when voluntary. It never can be successfully carried out unless the parties to a dispute or controversy are equals, or nearly equals, in power to protect or defend themselves, or to inflict injury upon the other party." I am sending to you herein copy of this address which was published in pamphlet form. I would also suggest that if you have a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST that you should refer to my editorials[*835*] I. L. J. 2. upon this subject in the FEDERATIONIST for March, April, issues, 1901. Also if you can refer to the annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you can find some helpful matter in that, as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon that subject. "Compulsory courts could not enforce their decrees" except the State would re-establish involuntary servitude; in other words, slaver. And to abolish slavery, even revolution would be justifiable. By reason of the large numbers of workmen, any action which they might take for the purpose of evading award, would practically be a public act and render them liable under such a law. The employer on the other hand, could readily close down his plant by assigning any reason, and then re-open anew under any name, or he might close down and "re-organize" his labor force. Either method would help him evade such a law. On the other hand, if the award was enforcible against the will of the employer, it would practically be confiscation. Then again there are other method by which employers can evade an award, one of which was resorted to recently in New Zealand, where a Court of Arbitration decided in favor of the employes. The employer closed his plant and began ordering goods in his line from England. Whether such an employer could, at some future time, reopen his business and proceed to manufacture with other workmen upon the ground that they are not th same parties, and thus evade the award, I am not quite certain, but I have shown that there are sufficient means by which employers can evade an award. The wage earners are earnestly striving to obtain a living wage, which when expended in the most economical manner, shall be sufficient to maintain an average-sized family in a manner consistent with[*836*] I. L. J. 3. whatever the contemporary local civilization recognizes as indispensable to physical and mental health, or as required by the rational self-respect of human beings. That living wage changes continually for what constitutes a living wage to-day may be entirely insufficient a decade hence. It may not be amiss to say that one of the chief advocates of the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, who was largely instrumental in securing its enactment in that country, is a Mr. Lusk who was in the United States in 1900, and left no way untried to laud the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, urging its adoption by the people of this country. At that time I protested against such a law being applied to our country, and stated that it may seem to act fairly well during fair times, but the law had not been put to a test through periods of industrial depression. This same Mr. Lusk, after having spent several years in New Zealand since 1900, came to the United States a few months ago, and publicly admitted that the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand was not a success. As a matter of fact, it is an effort to puruse an unnatural course to meet a natural situation and condition. It would be the most unwise course for labor to pursue to advocate compulsory arbitration as a means of preventing or adjusting labor disputes. Labor wants to maintain industrial peace, but it must be with honor and justice, and it must not conflict with natural human rights. Labor must organize and possess power and wield that power intelligently and discreetly. We want conciliation, and if necessary arbitration, but arbitration voluntarily entered into and its terms 837 I. L. J. 4. and awards voluntarily adhered to, but compulsory arbitration, never. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*838*] M February 4, 1909. Mr. C. L. Baine, Secretary, Boot and Shoe Workers Union, 246 Summer St., Boston Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: As was stated to you in my letter of January 21st would be done, copies of your letter of the 18th instant were submitted to the members of the Executive Council and the entire subject matter of your letter has been given their very careful consideration. I am authorized by the Executive Council to say to you that the letter of Vice-President Duncan addressed to the W. L. Douglas Shoe Company was in no sense a decision of the Executive Council, as the entire subject matter had not been submitted to the Executive Council for the purpose of a decision. The purpose of Vice-President Duncan's letter was to convey the regret of the Executive Council that the controversy between your organization and the Douglas Company had not been adjusted by conferences and at the same time to tender the good offices of the Executive Council in any way your organization might desire, the Douglas Company having already requested our assistance in affecting an adjustment. It should be further stated that the headlines published by the Douglas Company in connection with Vice-President Duncan's letter were in no sense a part of that letter and were not authorized by839 C. L. B. 2. the Executive Council, neither did the Executive Council authorize the reproduction of the official letter head of the American Federation of Labor. As has been previously stated to you and your colleagues, the Douglas Company was requested to refrain from the use of this letter until after the E.C. meeting, with which request the Company promptly complied. Let me repeat what I stated to you when you were here; that I am authorized to tender the good offices of the E.C. in any way that may be productive of re-establishment of the former good relations obtaining between your union and the Company. Sincerely hoping that an agreement with the Company may be effected, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*840*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Frank Zeitz, Secretary, United Trades and Labor Council, 255 Genesee St., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Among other matters receiving the attention of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting held in this city January 11-16, inclusive, was a complaint made by President Kirby and Secretary Spencer of the Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor, to the effect that the Building Trades Department had issued a charter to a Building Trades section in Buffalo, that it is [cei]xx understood that the delegates from the local unions of the Building Trades are being denied admission to the United Trades and Labor Council. At the Denver Convention of the Building Trades Council, the following preambles and resolution were adopted: "That the President of this Department immediately notify all local unions now affiliated with the Local Department in Buffalo that they must affiliate with the United Trades and Labor Council of Buffalo, N. Y., by March 1st. Failing to do so the charter must be recalled, and "Further, That President Gompers of the American Federation of Labor, shall be requested to notify the United Trades and Labor Council of Buffalo, that all Building Trades affiliated therewith eligible to membership in this Department must affiliate themselves with the Local Department of Building Trades on or before March 1st. In the event of failure of any or all trades to abide by this request this Department shall demand their suspension through the American Federation of Labor."841 Mr. Frank Zeitz --2-- This matter was considered fully and the undersigned was authorized to advise you that the American Federation of Labor will enforce the Constitutional provisions relative to Building Trades local unions being admitted to representation on Central Labor Unions, the Central Labor Union of Buffalo included. It is hoped, theretofore, that at the next meeting of your Central Body this matter will be placed before the delegates and action taken in conformity with the above. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.842 X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Wm. Spencer, Secretary, Building Trades Department A. F. of L., 423 Colorado Bldg., City. Dear Sir and Brother: Among other matters receiving the attention of the Executive Council at its recent meeting was a communication from the Board of Delegates of the Building Trades of Brooklyn and vicinity as follows: "At the regular meeting of the Board of Delegates of the Building Trades of Brooklyn and vicinity held yesterday morning, the following resolution was unanimously adopted. "Resolved, That an official communication be sent to the officials of the American Federation of Labor, stating that this body emphatically repudiates the notion of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L. in granting but one [quarter?] to New York City." This matter was referred to the undersigned to take up with the officers of our department for adjustment. I would be pleased, therefore, to hear from you in regard to the above, and to know in what way I can be of assistance. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.843 X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, State Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: our favor of January 23d. has been duly received and contents noted. In regard to the matter of the situation in Buffalo, I beg to enclose you herein copy of letter I am this day writing the Secretary of the Central Labor Union, which will be self-explanatory. Kindly accept same as equally addressed to you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.844 X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Thomas R. Shipp, Secretary, National Conservation Commission, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: Your favor of Jan. 25th has been duly received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to advise you that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its recent meeting appointed the following named gentlemen as the Conservation Committee of the American Federation of Labor: Samuel Gompers, John Mitchell, James O'Connell, D.A. Hayes, Frank Morrison. I should be glad to hear from you further as to what this committee can do to be of assistance. Very truly yours, Sam. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.845 X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Wm. D. Huber, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, State Life Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Among other matters receiving the attention of the Executive Council at its recent meeting was the application made by your Brotherhood for the endorsement of its union label. I beg to advise you that your application was favorably considered and that when the new label bulletin is revised the label of your organization will appear therein. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.846 X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Chas. L. Nelson, Secretary, Saw Workers' Union #12423, 755 Water St., Port Huron, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, your recent communication making application for the privilege of etching the American Federation of Labor label on hand-saws was given very careful consideration and discussion. The undersigned was authorized to advise you, however, that it would not be permissible to grant the use of the American Federation of Labor label in the manner indicated. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*847*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Alfred J. Exton, Secretary, Federation of Labor, Rm. 7, Hilsendegen Block,Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor held in this city, President Alpine of the United Association of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters and Steam Fitters' Helpers, made complaint that the Detroit Central Body had refused to seat the delegates from the Plumbers' local un[o]ion. In connection therewith your attention is called to Section 8, Article 11 of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, which reads as follows: "No Central Body or Department affiliated with the American Federation of Labor shall reject credentials presented by a duly elected or appointed delegation of a Local Union, chartered by a National or an International Union having affiliation with the American Federation of Labor; provided, however, that upon written charges signed by at least three delegates, any delegate of an[?] affiliated Union may, upon conviction after a fair trial, be expelled or suspended. Action of the Central Body, under this section, shall be subject to appeal to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, and no delegation representing Local Unions affiliated, as herein described, shall be suspended or expelled until like action is taken." The hope is entertained that immediate action will be taken by your Central Body to conform to the laws of the American Federation of Labor in this regard as indicated above, to the end that the Plumbers' Local Union may be given full recognition as[*849*] Mr. A. J. Exter --2-- guaranteed by the Constitution. Asking you to advise me in regard to the above at your early convenience, I am, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*849*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. John Alpine, President, United Association of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters and Steam Fitters' Helpers, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Please find enclosed copy of letter I have this day written to the Secretary of the Detroit Federation of Labor, relative to seating the delegates of your local union in that city, which will be self-explanatory. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*850*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. John E. Bray, Secretary, Amal. Sheet Metal Workers Int'l Alliance, 325 Nelson Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Under date of Jan. 29th I am in receipt of a letter from President Ottinger of [t]he Stove Mounters' International Union in which he says: "We are informed that the Sheet Metal Workers International Alliance have been using their best effort to induce our members in the City of St. Louis, Mo., to join their organization. A letter received today from a member of our local union in St. Louis claims they have decided to join in with the organization aforementioned. The work these men are doing is mounting stoves, and comes directly under our jurisdiction. At the last convention in Denver both organizations were instructed to refrain from infringing on each other's jurisdiction and this is a clear violation of that instruction and we hereby protest to you against the said Sheet Metal Workers' International Alliance receiving into their organization any of the members of Local 34 of our organization who have been working in any of [t]he stove shops in the City of St. Louis, or any other of our members anywhere." I have already writen to you and to him in regard to a further conference between representatives of your respective organizations as suggested by the Executive Council at its recent meeting and I have suggested to President Ottinger and now suggest to you that the above be one of the matters considered by your representatives at the conference as above suggested, but I trust in the meantime that you will investigate the complaint made by Mr. Ottinger.[*851*] ---2--- With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*852*] Z Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. D. W. Ottinger, President, Stove Mounters and Steel Range Workers' International Union, 165 Concord Ave., Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will find duplicate of letter written today to Mr. Bray of the Amal. Sheet Metal Workers, in connection with your favor to me of the 29th Inst., which communication you will please accept as addressed equally to yourself. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*853*] X. Feb. 1[?] 1909. Mr. Thos. Atkinson, Dist. Secretary, Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners, 332 E. 93d. St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Mr. Wm. Fyfe, representing your organization, was present in support of the protest made by your organization against your local unions being refused representation in the Central Bodies of Youngstown, Ohio, White Plains, New York, and Wilkesbarre, Pa. Mr. Fyfe further stated that your individual members have been and are being discriminated against by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners. The Council also had under consideration in connection with this matter your letter of Dec. 30th bearing upon this same subject. The undersigned was authorized to notify the secretaries of the several central bodies named that the delegates from your local unions shall be recognized and accorded all the rights and privileges shown to other local unions of affiliated internationals. Letters to that effect will be sent to the secretaries of these several bodies immediately upon the completion of this letter to you. The Executive Council recommended further that you should notify Mr. Wm. D. Huber, President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters[*854*] Mr. Thos. Atkinson --2-- and Joiners of the complaints which have been made to you that the members of your organization are being discriminated against by the members of the United Brotherhood. Assuring you of my desire of doing everything that I can to be helpful to your organization, as well as to all organized labor, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*855*] X. Feb. 1, 1909. Mr. David Kreyling, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its recent meeting having under consideration the correspondence with this office from you and the officers of the Hod Carriers and Building Laborers' International Union, in regard to the refusal of the St. Louis Central Labor Union to seat the delegates from the local of the Hod Carriers of that city, deferred a decision until the next meeting of the Executive Council, which will be held in this city on April 15th, but authorized that in the meantime our efforts should be continued to bring about an adjustment of the matter. I am therefore writing to you to inquire what is the present status of the case, and in what way can this office be helpful. Hoping to receive your early reply, with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*856*] Z Feb. 3, 1909. Mr. Timothy P. Sexton, Secretary, 10th Ward Democratic Club, 1212 Spann Ave., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends in all walks of life have also telegraphed and written me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, but I want to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and righ tand the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*857*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Frank Barr, Secretary, Central Trades' Council, 614 S. Race St., Marion, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration was the protest made by your Central Body as well as several others, against the circular letter issued by the undersigned on Sept. 28th, 1908, by authority of the Executive Council, notifying all Central Bodies and State Federationf oa Labor to exclude all local unions of Flint Glass Workers from representation until that organization has complied with the decision rendered by the American Federation of Labor and to which it agreed at the Minneapolis Convention. I am authorized by the Executive Council to inform you that in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, the local unions of the American Flint Glass Workers can not be allowed representation in Central Labor Unions or State Federations of Labor until such time as the Flint Glass Workers' Organization complies with the [?]ecision of the American Federation of Labor. You are requested to read this letter at the next meeting of the Central Body, to the end that action may be taken in conformity therewith.[*858*] Mr. Frank Barr ---2--- Asking you to advise me in regard to the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*859*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Andrew Crunelie, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Assembly, 3052 Washington St., Bellaire, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration [x]was the protest made by your Central Body as well as several others, against the circular letter issued by the undersigned on Sept. 28th, 1908, by authority of the Executive Council, notifying all Central Bodies and State Federat[u]ions of Labor to exclude all local unions of Flint Glass Workers from representation until that organization has complied with the decision rendered by the American Federation of Labor and to which it agreed at the Minneapolis Convention. I am authorized by the Executive Council to inform you that in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, the local unions of the American Flint Glass Workers can not be allowed representation in Central Labor Unions or State Federations of Labor until such time as the Flint Glass Workers' Organization complies with the decision of the American Federation of Labor. You are requested to read this letter at the next meeting of the Central Body, to the end that action may be taken in conformity therewith.[*860*] Mr. Andrew Crunelie --2-- Asking you to advise me in regard to the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*861*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Charles Scharf, Secretary, Fostoria Trades Assembly, 353 West High St., Fostoria, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration was the protest made by your Central Body as well as several others, against the circular letter issued by the undersigned on Sept. 28th, 1908, by authority of the Executive Council, notifying all Central Bodies and State Federations of Labor to exclude all local unions of Flint Glass Workers from representation until that organization has complied with the decision rendered by the American Federation of Labor and to which it agreed at the Minneapolis Convention. I am authori[?]ed by the Executive Council to inform you that in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, the local unions of the American Flint Glass Workers can not be allowed representation in Central Labor Unions or State Federations of Labor until such time as the Flint Glass Workers' Organization complies with the decision of the American Federation of Labor. You are requested to read this letter at the next meeting of the Central Body, to the end that action may be taken in conformity therewith.[*862*] Mr. Chas. Scharf —2— Asking you to advise me in regard to the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*863*] X Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Augustus Jamison, Secretary, Central Labor Union of Beaver County, 1114 7th Ave., New Brighton, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration was the protest made by your Central Body as well as several others, against the circular letter issued by the undersigned on Sept. 28th, 1908, by authority of the Executive Council, notifying all Central Bodies and State Federations of Labor to exclude all local unions of Flint Glass Workers from representation until that organization has complied with the decision rendered by the American Federation of Labor and to which it agreed at the Minneapolis Convention. I am authorized by the Executive Council to inform you that in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, the local unions of the American Flint Glass Workers can not be allowed representation in Central Labor Unions or State Federations of Labor until such time as the Flint Glass Workers' Organization complies with the decision of the American Federation of Labor. You are requested to read this letter at the next meeting of the Central Body, to the end that action may be taken in conformity therewith.[*864*] Mr. A. Jamison --2-- Asking you to advise me in regard to the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*865*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. C. G. Collins, Secretary, Central Trades Council, Charleroi, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration was the protest made by your Central Body as well as several others, against the circular letter issued by the undersigned on Sept. 28th, 1908, by authority of the Executive Council, notifying all Central Bodies and State Federations of Labor to exclude all local unions of Flint Glass Workers from representation until that organization has complied with the decision rendered by the American Federation of Labor and to which it agreed at the Minneapolis Convention. I am authorized by the Executive Council to inform you that in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, the local unions of the American Flint Glass Workers can not be allowed representation in Central Labor Unions or State Federations of Labor until such time as the Flint Glass Workers organization complies with the decision of the American Federation of Labor. You are requested to read this letter at the next meeting of the Central Body, to the end that action may be taken in conformity therewith.[*866*] Mr. C. G. Collins --2-- Asking you to advise me in regard to the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*867*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. B. F. Walters, Secretary, Allegheny Trades Council, 25 Decatur St., Cumberland, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration was the protest made by your Central Body as well as several others, against the circular letter issued by the undersigned on Sept. 28th, 1908, by authority of the Executive Council, notifying all Central Bodies and State Federations of Labor to exclude all local unions of Flint Glass Workers from representation until that organization has complied with the decision rendered by the American Federation of Labor and to which it agreed at the Minneapolis Convention. I am authorized by the Executive Council to inform you that in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, the local unions of the American Flint Glass Workers can not be allowed representation in Central Labor Unions or State Federations of Labor until such time as the Flint Glass Workers organization complies with the decision of the American Federation of Labor. You are requested to read this letter at the next meeting of the Central Body, to the end that action may be taken in conformity therewith.[*868*] Mr. B. F. Walters --2-- Asking you to advise me in regard to the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*869*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. E. E. Howe, Secretary, Millville Trades Council, 434 High Street, Millville, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration was the protest made by your Central Body as well as several others, against the circular letter issued by the undersigned on Sept. 28th, 1908, by authority of the Executive Council, notifying all Central Bodies and State Federations of Labor to exclude all local unions of Flint Glass Workers from representation until that organization has complied with the decision rendered by the American Federation of Labor and to which it agreed at the Minneapolis Convention. I am authorized by the Executive Council to inform you that in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, the local unions of the American Flint Glass Workers can not be allowed representation in Central Labor Unions or State Federations of Labor until such time as the Flint Glass Workers' Organization complies with the decision of the American Federation of Labor. You are requested to read this letter at the next meeting of the Central Body, to the end that action may be taken in conformity therewith.[*870*] Mr. E. E. Howe --2-- Asking you to advise me in regard to the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*871*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Ralph Middlebrook, Secretary, Federated Trades and Labor Council, 1536 H St., San Diego, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters receiving consideration was the protest made by your Central Body as well as several others, against the circular letter issued by the undersigned on Sept. 28th, 1908, by authority of the Executive Council, notifying all Central Bodies and State Federations of Labor to exclude all local unions of Flint Glass Workers from representation until that organization has complied with the decision rendered by the American Federation of Labor and to which it agreed at the [I]Minneapolis Convention. I am authorized by the Executive Council to inform you that in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, the local unions of the American Flint Glass Workers can not be allowed representation in Central Labor Unions or State Federations of Labor until such time as the Flint Glass Workers' Organization complies with the decision of the American Federation of Labor. You a[Y]re requested to read this letter at the next meeting of the Central Body, to the end that action may be taken in conformity therewith.[*872*] Mr. Ralph Middlebrook --2-- Asking you to advise me in regard to the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*873*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Chas. E. Lawyer, Secretary, Tin-Plate Workers' International Protective Association of America, Rms. 18-20, Reilly Block, Wheeling, W. Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Among other matters receiving the attention of the Executive Council at its recent meeting was the application made by your organization for an [t]extension of your charter rights to include enamellers, galvanizers, and granite-workers. It being understood that these workers are not now under the jurisdiction of any national organization, the Council took favorable action upon your application and directed that your request be granted. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. Enclosed please find blank form which you will please fill in exactly as you desire the charter made out, and accompany the same with $1. for the new charter.[*874*] X. Feb. 2, 1909. Mr. Thomas W. Barnes, Secretary, Fort Worth Trades Assembly, Box 187, Forth Worth, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, a communication was received from President Hawley of the Switchmen's Union in which he made complaint that the Railway Train-men had been seated in the Central Body. The Executive Council referred this matter to the undersigned for correspondence and investigation and report to our next meeting, which will be held in this city on April 15th. I would be obliged therefore, if you would write me fully in regard to this matter, so that I may be in a position to report to my colleagues in conformity with the above. Hoping to receive your early reply, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. Of course, I know from memory some of the matters in connection with these cases, but I would prefer that [the]XXX I have a written report thereon.[*875*] LF February 4,1909 Mr. Charles R. Atherton, Secretary, Metal Polishers, Buffers, Platers, Brass Molders, etc., Neave Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2nd instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with the request , I am sending you under separate cover 20 copies of the circular appeal for funds for the pending injunction proceedings against the American Federation of Labor. I want to thank you for your co-operation in this matter and to assure you that it is greatly appreciated. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*876*] LF February 4,1909. Mr. John J. Manning, Secretary, Shirt, Waist and Laundry Workers' International Union, P. O. Box 11, Station 1, Troy, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 1st instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with the request contained therein, I am sending you 100 copies of the circular appeal for funds for the pending injunction proceedings against the American Federation of Labor. Let me thank you for your co-operation in this matter, which is greatly appreciated. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*877*] LF February 4,1909 Mr. B. A. Larger, Secretary, United Garment Workers of America, Rooms 116-117 Bible House, New York, .N.Y Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2nd instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with the request contained therein, I am sending to you under separate cover 250 copies of the circular appeal for funds for the pending injunction proceedings against the American Federation of Labor. I want to thank you for your co-operation in this matter and to assure you that it is greatly appreciated. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*878*] LF Feb. 4,1909 Mr. N. Lafayette Savay, President, American Civic Alliance, 43 Cedar St., New York City. My dear Sir: Your favor of the 2nd instant is received and contents noted. You say that the date of the banquet to be given by your organization has been changed from February 20th to April 15th, and you desire to know whether I can attend on that date. In reply, I beg to say that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor will hold a meeting on that date and hence it will be impossible for me to accept your invitation. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*879*] LF February 4,1909 Mr. H. T. Barnett, Recording Secretary, Local Union #86, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 29 Peart Pl., Rochester, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the February 2nd to hand and contents noted. I beg to advise you that at the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, at which the representatives of both sides of this Electrical Workers' controversy were present, this entire subject matter was thoroughly gone into. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the international Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*880*] LF Feb. 4,1909 Mr. Stuart Reid, Organizer, Room 23 Reynolds Arcade, Rochester, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the February 2nd to hand and contents noted. I beg to advise you that at the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, at which the representatives of both sides of this Electrical Workers' controversy were present, this entire subject matter was thoroughly gone into. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the international Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. All organized labor of America is appealed to give that same recognition and support. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*881*] LF Feb. 4,1909 Mr. Jere L. Sullivan, Secretary, Hotel and Restaurant Employes' International Allicance, etc. Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the first instant is received and contents noted. I have also noted the circular you enclose signed by your Executive Board and addressed to your local unions, soliciting contributions for the fund in defense of the officers of the American Federation of Labor in the injunction case and the contempt proceedings. Your circular is all right and I thank you for your prompt and enthusiastic compliance with the appeal as sent out. I know that the Federation can always count upon your organization. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*882*] LF Feb. 4,1909 Mr. J. J. McNamara, Secretary, Intl. Assn. Bridge and Structural Iron Workers, 422 American Central Life Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2nd instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover 125 copies of the circular appeal for funds for the pending injunction proceedings against the American Federation of Labor. I want to thank you for your co-operation in this matter and to say that it is greatly appreciated. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*883*] LF Feb. 4,1909 Mr. C. L. Baine, Secretary, Boot and Shoe Workers' Union, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2nd instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover 150 copies of the circular appeal for funds for the pending injunction proceedings against the American Federation of Labor. I want to thank you for your hearty co-operation in this matter and to say that it is greatly appreciated. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*884*] LF Feb. 4,1909 Mr. Frederick Adams, c/o Borough Hall, Brooklyn, New York. Dear Sir: Upon the request of Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave., New York City, I am sending to you under separate cover 1 copy each of Judge Gould's Injunction, the Decision of Justice Wright and my editorial review of the same, the latter being published in the February issue of the American Federationist. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*885*] LF Feb. 4,1909 Mr. M. Hallheimer, Counsellor- At-Law, 774 Broadway, New York City Dear Sir: Upon the request of Mr. Herman Robinsion, 25 Third Ave., New York City, I am sending to you under separate cover 1 copy each of Judge Gould's Injunction, the Decision of Justice Wright and my editorial review of the same, the latter being published in the February issue of the American Federationist. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor[*886*] LF Feb. 4,1909 Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2nd instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am sending to Mr. M. Hallheimer, 774 Broadway, New York, copy of Judge Gould's Injunction, the Decision of Justice Wright and my editorial review of the same, the latter being published in the February issue of the American Federationist. I am also sending copies to Mr. Frederick Adams, at Borough Hall, Brooklyn, N.Y., and if I find that I have a sufficient number of copies to comply with your request, I will send a half dozen of each to you. At any event, I can send half dozen copies of the February issue containing Justice Wright's decision and my editorial review. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*887] LF Feb. 4, 1909 Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the second instant is duly received, in which you say that under separate cover you are sending the correspondence submitted to you some time ago in the complaints of the Copper Plate Printers and the American Federation of Musicians. The same has been duly received and I want to thank you for returning it to this office. With kind regards, I beg to remain, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*888*] LF Feb. 4, 1909 Mr. Frederick W. Carr, Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 29th ultimo, has been duly received and contents noted. I thank you for your invitation to address the students of your college on February 20th, but I regret that owing to other engagements it will be impossible for me to accept the invitation. I receive a number of similar invitations from time to time, and whenever I can spare the time from the multitudinous duties of my office as President of the American Federation of Labor and as editor of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, I accept, for it is a pleasure to have the opportunity of placing before the young men who are just starting in life, the aims, high purposes of our great movement, and what it hopes to achieve for the good of humanity. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*889*] LF Feb. 4, 1909 Mr. Frank H. McCarthy, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 99 Union Park St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2nd instant is received and contents noted, and I have read with interest the clippings you enclose and thank you for sending them to me. Now in regard to the protest meeting of the Boston Central Labor Union on March 14th, I am exceedingly doubtful as to the wisdom or propriety of my attending any of these protest meetings. I have had the matter under consideration in connection with other protest meetings, and have come to the conclusion that it will be better for the interests of labor that I should not attend any of them. Neither have I any suggestion to offer as to who should be invited to address the meeting. I do not apprehend that your committee will have any difficulty whatever in arranging for that. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, SamlGompers. President American Federation of Labor890 LF Feb. 4, 1909 Mr. Santiago Iglesias, Organizer, 43 Cruz St. San Juan, Porto Rico. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 25th has been duly received, in which you ask that a large package of leaflets printed in the Spanish language, of quotations, be sent to you. In reply I beg to say that under separate cover same are being forwarded to you. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenver convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*891*] LF Feb. 4, 1909 Mr. James O'Connell, President, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I would appreciate it if you would kindly advise me whether the membership of your organization includes draughtsmen. Hoping to receive your early reply, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*892*] LF Feb 4, 1909 Mr. James Wilson, Secretary, Pattern Makers' League of North America, Neave Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: I would appreciate it if you would kindly advise me whether the membership of your organization includes draughtsmen. Hoping to receive your early reply, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*893*] LF Feb. [?],1909 Miss Anna Bowen, Member Strike Committee, Cigar Factory Tobacco Strippers 81[??], 987 Washington, Boston, Mass. Dear Madam: Your favor of the first instant is received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that Mr. Mitchell is now in correspondence with Mr. Filene and myself in regard to calling a meeting of our Committee to further consider the matters referred to that committee relating to the questions at issue between your organization and the Traiser Co. I do not know just when the committee will meet, but we hope to be able to take the matter up at an early date. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*894*] LF Feb. 4,1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, President, Cigarmakers' International Union of America, Monon Building, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: If you recall, on December 31st, you sent me a clipping from the New York "CALL" entitled "Porto Ricans Organize-- Another Attempt to Form Real Socialist Party -- Prospects Bright", and you then request information as to how Organizer Iglesias regards the matter. I wrote to Mr. Iglesias, sending him a typewritten copy of the clipping and I am now in receipt of a reply from him, copy of which you will find enclosed herein, from which it appears that the author of the correspondence at Arecibo, as published in the CALL has no standing in Porto Rico as a representative of the labor organizations. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.895 Copy. January 20th, 1909 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President A. F. of L., Washington,D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter dated Jan. 4th came duly to hand, enclosing me a clipping of the "New York Evening Call" which contained a correspondence by Victor Candamo of Arecibo, saying in substance that another attempt had been made at San Juan to form a real Socialist Party, the writer making exaggerated comentaries in regard to the matter. The [trust] truth in the matter is that Armando Chico, the Secretary of the Bricklayers Local No. 10982 of San Juan, and about 20 others workers held a meeting at Mr. Chico's home with the intention of starting a socialist labor party, but of course, without the sympathy or support, either directly or indirectly of the Federation or any labor leader of significance in San Juan or the Island. We do not want here at the present time either socialist or labor party. What we desire and are working for with all our might is labor unions and federation unions. This is the general opinion throughout the Island among our workmen. The Free Federation has adopted in this respect the same policy followed by the American Federation of Labor by letting every member free to choose and vote for the party he likes, thus maintaining our unions free from political interference. In fact we are against anything which smell politics here for the workmen here, we are convinced, are not prepared and will not be for many years to come, to organize labor party. For those reasons it is useless to say that the meeting referred to by[*896*] -2- Mr. Candamo is of no importance whatever, and it has no relation at all with the Federation. It will not be out of the way to state that Mr. Candamo has no reputation at all among the workers, he has no trade or occupation, and used to be a carpetbagger in time of the Spanish regime. He lives now out of little property of his wife, in Arecibo In regard to the complaint he makes against the Federation is just a foolishness on his part. With best wishes and regard, I am fraternally yours, (Signed) Santiago Iglesias Organizer. [*897*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. Mr. Maurice Mikol, 415 East 90th Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the first instant to hand and contents noted. I had important conferences to attend, and the Federation is now in the throes of moving to new quarters. This has disarranged our matters considerably, and is the reason of my somewhat tardy reply. However, I write you so that you may receive it tomorrow, Friday morning. I am sending you copies of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST for January and February, which should also reach you about the same time. You will find them interesting. I wish you would telegraph me, immediately upon receiving this letter, the name of the steamer upon which you will sail, and I will have the eagles made from macerated U. S. paper money expressed to you in care of the vessel, and I will also send you in the same package some further documents. I may be able to get the size of the gloves you say Mr. Morrison desired. If I do, I shall send a letter to you on the boat. As for myself, I do not care to indicate anything that you should purchase. That is a matter that must lie entirely with yourself.[*898*] Mr. Maurice Mikol --2-- If nothing unforeseen should arise, I hope to be in Paris somewhere about the tenth of July. My attorneys have informed me that the appeals will not be decided until some time in the fall, and that it will not interfere with my carrying out the instructions of the Denver convention to visit several European countries. I shall leave the entire matter to the kindness and consideration of yourself and our friends of the labor movement of Paris. I do hope to have the pleasure of meeting a large number of them and confer upon the subjects of vital importance to the workers of both countries. I was unaware that you have delved in the dramatic art, and I can assure you that you have my sincere wish for absolute success. I have never underestimated your ability and talents. I did not know, of course, that they found expression in the direction indicated. Sincerely hoping that you may have a safe and pleasant voyage and trip, as well as safe return, and that I may see you soon thereafter, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. M. B. As for the bet which you lost, "forget it".[*899*] X. Feb 4, 1909. Mr. W. A. Appleton, Secretary, The General Federation of Trade Unions, #6, Adelphi Terrace, Adam Street, Strand, London, England. My dear Mr. Appleton: Your favor of January 22d. was duly received in which you request information as to the number of silk lace machines and operators employed in connection with them in Pawtucket, R. I. The President of the United Textile Workers of America, Mr. John Golden, advises me that there is only one firm manufacturing silk lace in Pawtucket, the American Textile Company, George M. Thornton, Treasurer, and William H. Smith, Superintendent, that they employ about twenty men on as many machines, the greater part of the work of cleaning and finishing the silk lace being done on the old systems of years ago, that is, taken out by women and finished at their homes. The firm employs about one hundred people altogether. If there is any further information which I can give you, please advise me. Very sincerely yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*900*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. Mr. H. L. Boyle, Lansing, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, among other matters considered was your request for endorsement of the American Federation of Labor for your book, "The History of Peace". The Executive Council suggests that if its members are expected to give their endorsement, either individually or collectively, to a book, it would be necessary that they should have the opportunity of reading it. If you care to send copies of the book to the members of the Executive Council, [these]XXXXX their names and addresses appear on this letterhead. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*901*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. Mr. William Gueske, Secretary, United Labor Congress, Mahoning County, Box 219, Youngstown, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Mr. William Fyfe, representing the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners, made complaint that the local union, or unions, of his organization in your city have been denied representation in your Central Body. In connection with this complaint, your attention is called to the fact that the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners, being in full affiliation with the American Federation of Labor, its locals are entitled under the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor to all the rights and privileges accorded to other affiliated bodies. Your Central Labor Union will therefore be helpful in every way within its power to see that these local unions are granted proper recognition according to the Constitution and the action of the Executive Council. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*902*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. Mr. J. R. Wylie, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 34 Barney St., Wilkesbarre, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Mr. William Fyfe, representing the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners, made complaint that the local union, or unions, of his organization in your city have been denied representation in your Central Body. In connection with this complaint, your attention is called to the fact that the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners, being in full affiliation with the American Federation of Labor, its locals are entitled under the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor to all the rights and privileges accorded to other affiliated bodies. Your Central Labor Union will therefore be helpful in every way within its power to see that these local unions are granted proper recognition according to the Constitution and the action of the Executive Council. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*903*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. Mr. Florrey J. Bernard, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 102 Railroad Ave., White Plains, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: At the recent meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Mr. William Fyfe, representing the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners, made complaint that the local union, or unions, of his organization in your city have been denied representation in your Central Body. In connection with this complaint, your attention is called to the fact that the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners, being in full affiliation with the American Federation of Labor, its locals are entitled under the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor to all the rights and privileges accorded to other affiliated bodies. Your Central Labor Union[s] will therefore be helpful in every way within its power to see that these local unions are granted proper recognition according to the Constitution and the action of the Executive Council. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*904*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. Mr. Edw. A. Tate, Editor and Manager, Galesburg Labor News, 143 South Cherry St., Galesburg, Ill. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 2d. instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that the Executive Council is endeavoring to be helpful in every way within its power to bring about adjustment of the differences between the Boot and Shoe Workers' International Union and the W. L. Douglas Shoe Company. I sincerely trust that our efforts will yet be successful. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*905*] Mr. Thomas L. [?]ewis, President, Washington, D. C., Feb. 5, 1909. United Mine Workers Convention, Indianapolis, Ind. This morning's Washington Post publishes dispatch saying at your session yesterday my name was brought into discussion of the cause of the failure of the Alabama strike, charging and accusing me with having opposed the Miners in the interest of the State authorities. If such a statement was made it is absolutely untrue. My assistance in the strike was not asked, and as you know I have no authority to interfere either one way or another unless request for my assistance is made. Surely if I could not aid the Miners, I would not take any action to injure them. My life's work should stand for something as against such accusations or insinuations. SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, Charge A. F. of L . American Federation of Labor. [*906*] LF Feb. 5,1[??]9 Mr. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring further to the charter application of the Jewish Newspaper Writers' Union, I would like very much to have the opportunity of talking this matter over with you as soon as convenient. If you anticipate coming to Washington to attend the Conference of the Union Label Organizations on March 3rd, we can probably arrange for an interview in regard to this during your visit here. Please let me hear from you, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*907*] LF February 5,1909 Mr. I. Freedman, President Jewish Writers Union of Greater New York, 142 Second St., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the first instant and to say to you that the matter of the application of the Jewish Newspaper Writers Union for charter is receiving his attention and he hopes soon to be able to consult with President Lynch of the International Typographical Union in regard thereto. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*908*] LF Feb. 5,1909 Mr. H. A. Stemburgh, Secretary, Intl. Hod Carriers and Building Laborers, Realty Building, Elmira, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: There are matters of great importance which have arisen in connection with your organization, and about which it is necessary that I should see you. Were it possible at all for me to go to Elmira, I should have no hesitancy in doing so, but that is now absolutely out of the question. I therefore ask you to come to Washington and meet me at the new office of the American Federation of Labor, Corner 8th & G Sts. N. W., (Ouray Building) at 2 o'clock Saturday, February 13th. In the interests of your organization, as well as of the general labor movement, I trust that you will not fail to be present at the time and place indicated. Please advise me in regard to this, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*909*] LF Feb. 5,1909 Mr. D. D'Alessandro, President, International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers' Union, 144 North St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: There are matters of great importance which have arisen in connection with your organization, and about which it is necessary that I should see you. Were it possible at all for me to go to Boston, I should have no hesitancy in doing so, but that is now absolutely out of the question. I therefore ask you to come to Washington and meet me at the new office of the American Federation of Labor, Corner 8th & G Sts., N. W., (Ouray Building) at 2 o'clock Saturday, February 13th. In the interests of your organization, as well as of the general labor movement, I trust that you will not fail to be present at the time and place indicated. Please advise me in regard to this, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*910*] LF Feb. 5,1909 Mr. R. Strobel, Secretary, Brewery Workmen's International Union, Local No. 328. Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 25th received, in which you send a special invitation to the Executive Council to hold their summer meeting in your city. I will be pleased to lay the matter before my colleagues at our next meeting, which will be in the month of April. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*911*] LF Feb. 5, 1909 Mr. George Preston, Secretary, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of February first reached this office while I was absent, and I have just been able to come to it. I think your suggestion for your Association to issue a circular direct to your local lodges will bring good results, but I think your circular should also be accompanied by the circular issued by this office. I can furnish you as many as you may require. Advise us as to this, and believe me to be, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*912*] LF Feb. 5,1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your two personal favors of the first instant are duly received and contents noted. In reply I wish to state that the papers, newspaper clippings, etc. which you say you have sent me under separate cover, have all been received and you will please accept my thanks for the same. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*913*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. Mr. L. A. Sterne, President, Stenographers, Typewriters, Bookkeepers and Assistants Union #11773, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3d. instant is received in which you advise me that Local Union #11773, at its last meeting, appropriated $25. for our defense in the injunction case and contempt proceedings. Secretary Morrison will transmit formal receipt for the same. I want to assure you of our appreciation of the splendid manifestation of loyalty to the principles for which the great labor movement of our country stands. Made up as is the membership of your union, that is, largely of the workers in the offices of the labor organizations of Washington, am I not justified in interpreting the generous action of your union in making the contribution, as an evidence of the fact that your members have confidence and faith in the high aspirations of the great labor movement of our country? With best wishes for the welfare of your union, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*914*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. NO. 11, EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: Enclosed please find copy of a letter President Moffitt and Secretary Lawlor submitted by direction of the General Executive Board of the United Hatters of North America. You will observe that the organization asks that the Executive Council levy an assessment. The matter is submitted to the Executive Council for a vote upon the following two propositions: 1. Shall the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor levy an assessment upon affiliated organizations in accordance with Article 12 of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor? 2. If an assessment shall be levied, of how many weeks duration shall the assessment continue? Please vote upon these two propositions separately, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*915*] COPY. UNITED HATTERS OF NORTH AMERICA. II Waverly Place, New York City. February 3, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, 425 G St.; Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- As you are aware, ninety per cent of our entire membership are now on strike in resentment of the action of the National Association of Hat Manufacturers in voting to discontinue the use of our Union Label in all factories controlled by members of their organization. Our members are on strike since January 14th and it is now a fight to the finish— the manufacturers not only refuse to use the Union Label of our organization, but insist on the open shop—and we are determined to resent both. Besides the members of the United Hatters of North America who are on strike, we have also to take care (financially) of about five thousand women who came out with us and are determined to remain out until the end. At a meeting of our board of Directors and General Executive Board held at the University Settlement Building on February 2nd, for the purpose of going over the situation financially, it was unanimously RESOLVED, That the General Executive Board request the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to immediately levy an assessment for the support of our Organization, in accordance with the provisions of Article 12 of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. With only ten per cent of our members working and $70,000. per week required for the support of our members you can readily see that in a short time our own funds will be exhausted, and we urgently request that you call this to the attention of the Executive Council at your very earliest opportuniy. Respectfully yours, (Signed) John A. Moffitt, Pres't, " Martin Lawlor, Sec'y. [*916*] X. Feb. 4, 1909. Mr. John A. Moffitt, President, Mr. Martin Lawler, Secretary, United Hatters of North America, 11 Waverly Place, Rm. 15, New York City. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Your favor of the third instant to hand and contents noted. In accordance with your suggestion I have submitted the matter to the Executive Council. Upon a decision being reached I shall advise you of the result. In connection therewith I beg to remind you of the facts I enumerated in the conversation when you called me up over the long distance telephone yesterday. Very many of our affiliated organizations are in financial stress and have the greatest difficulty to maintain themselves. One of the large international unions, I have been authentically informed, by its President, has more than seventy per cent of its membership unemployed and this has been the fact for more than a year. What with this large number of unemployed, of course, not to the same extent in all organizations, and the effort of the organizations to be of some benefit to their unemployed men, together with the many trade disputes existing, I am very apprehensive as to both the substantial value of an assessnent to your great membership, and the corresponding injurious influence and effect it may have upon many of the organizations.[*917*] Mr. J. A. M. and Mr. M. L. --2-- You know how deeply I am interested in the success of your organization, and with all my heart I wish you a great triumph. Anything within my power to that end I shall gladly and promptly perform. I believe it my duty to you to submit the facts to the attention of yourselves and your colleagues. With kindest regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.918 X Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. M. J. O'Brien, 67 Saratoga Avenue, Rochester, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3d. instant at hand and contents noted. I beg to advise that at the recent meeting of the Executive Council, of the American Federation of Labor, at which the representatives of both sides of this Electrical Workers' controversy were present, this entire subject matter was thoroughly gone into. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. Organized labor the [world] country over is appealed to give their support. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor.[*919*] X. Feb.5, 1909. Mr. Wm. J. Gilthorpe, Secretary-Treasurer, International Boiler Makers and Iron Ship Builders, Suite 7-12 Law Building, Kansas City, Kans. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the second instant received and contents noted. I have also read with a great deal of interest the advance copy of editorial which you will publish in the February issue of your official journal. I congratulate you that you have set forth the matter so clearly and so forcefully. From information which I have received, it appears that the trade journals and the labor press generally are discussing Judge Wright's decision fully and freely. All of that, of course, adds that much strength to the cause for which we are fighting. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. N.B. I would suggest you read the Editorial in this February issue of the American Federationist S.G. [*920*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Secretary, National Civic Federation, 281 4th Avenue, New York City. My dear Mr. Easley: Your favor of the 3d. instant to hand and contents noted. In the question you submit I would suggest the elimination of the words "a constitutional" and substitute in lieu thereof "an inherent" so that the question would read, "has not any portion of society an inherent right to control its purchasing power for its own benefit?" Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.921 X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 281 4th Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Re - Arbitration in the matter of H. Traiser & Co.- Cigar & Tobacco Factory Strippers' Union. Your favor of the third instant to hand and contents noted. As I foresaw when postponement was had that there would be some difficulty to find a date convenient for you, Mr. Filene and I to meet. Ho wever, if you can arrange for the meeting on Saturday, February 20th, I shall make my arrangements so as to have nothing to interfere with my being in attendance on that date. If agreeable, I should be pleased to have the meeting at 281 4th Avenue, New York City. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*922*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. E. S. Cardozo, Ashland, Virginia. Dear Sir: Your favor of the first instant to hand and contents noted. My answer to you was in reference to the immediate situation, not counted decade by decade, for in the decades I am fully convinced that not only wages of the workers but the purchasing power of wages increases. I was under the impression that you referred to the immediate present, and say within the past year or so. Definite statistics of the character your request are not easily obtainable, and I have not the means of furnishing them to you at this time. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.923 Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Archie F. Ostrander, Vice-President, Central Labor Union, 76 Gamden St., Kingston, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the I4th Inst. received and contents noted. I beg to say in regard to the protest meeting which you say will be held in your city the latter part of February, I am exceedingly doubtful as to the wisdom or propriety of my attending any of these protest meetings. I have had the matter under consideration in connection with other protest meetings, and have come to the conclusion that it will be better for the interests of labor that I should not attend any of them. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*924*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Joseph Barondess, 165 East Broadway, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 4th Inst. to hand and contents noted. I regret that we failed to meet while I was in New York. I am unable to say now just when I will be in your city but you might write me again in the course of two or three weeks, when I may be able to indicate a definite time when I can meet you. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.925 Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Charles Edward Russell, The Broztell, Fifth Ave., 27th St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 4th Inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I can arrange to see you sometime during the day Thursday, Feb. IIth, at our new office, Ouray Bldg., 8th and G Sts., N. W. That is the earliest date I can designate, If this is agreeable to you please advise me so I will make no conflicting engagement. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*926*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. B. F. Sutherland, Red Water, Texas. Dear Sir: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also telegraphed and written me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, but I want to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of the liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Thanks for your offer of assistance. The matter will be formulated by the Executive Council and you will be advised. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*927*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 1st Inst. received and contents noted. Since my return I have looked up my engagements and find it will be absolutely out of the question for me to get to New York for Monday, February 15th. I regret this more than I can say but it is beyond my power to accept. I know that the Elks' dinner will be a most interesting and enjoyable occasion. I hope at some other time to have the opportunity of meeting Judge Krotel. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.928 Z Feb. 5, 1909 Mr. Richard J. Beamish, %The Evening Times, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 1st Inst., extending to me an invitation to preside at the Labor Union mass meeting to be held at 919-921 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa., February 20th, has been duly received and contents noted. In reply let me say this invitation is much appreciated by me, and I regret that owing to previous engagements I shall be unable to accept. Trusting that the affair may be in every way a success, and again regretting my inability to accept, I am Yours very truly, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*929*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Clinton Rogers Woodruff, Secretary, National Municipal League, North American Building, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 3rd Inst. has been duly received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that my duties are already so absorbing and engrossing that it would be impossible for me to assume any additional obligations by membership in the National Municipal League as you suggest. Thanking you for your courtesy, I am Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*930*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. George H. Shibley, President, People's Rule League of America, Bliss Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 13th Inst., President Gompers directs me to advise you that the Executive Council will not hold a meeting until April 15th. The Resolutions you submit will be held for the attention of the Executive Council at that meeting. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*931*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. William D. Leissler, Bureau of Printing and Engraving, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Referring to the request you made to one of my clerks for information in regard to the Dornette Desk, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter written me by the Secretary of the Carpenters' District Council of Hamilton County, Ohio, in which he states that the Dornette Desk is manufactured under non-union conditions. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*932*] Copy. CARPENTERS' DISTRICT COUNCIL HAMILTON CO. OHIO. Cincinnati, Feb. 2,1909. Pres. Samuel Gompers, of the American Federation of Labor. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communication of Bro. Duffy asking for information of the Dornette Desk manufactured in this City. I will say that they are not made under union conditions, nor do they intend to have them made under union conditions. Hoping that the above information will be of a benefit to you, and wishing you success, I remain, (Signed) Wm. Reinke, Recording Secretary of Hamilton Co. Carpenters District Council.[*933*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Charles S. Burnell, Attorney-at-Law, 300 B. F. Coulter Building, Los Angeles, Cal. Dear Sir: Your favor of January 25th has been duly received and contents noted. I transmitted copy of your letters to our attorneys, Messrs. Ralston and Siddons, of this city, and they advise me that they have written to you in reply. In addition to their letter I want to express my appreciation of your very kind and courteous offer to be of assistance to our attorneys, inasmuch as you have just concluded the Parkinson case, in which the Supreme Court of California sustained labor's contentions. Again assuring you of my appreciation of your courtesy, I am Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.934 Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. H. Heller, Secretary, Council, Int'l Brotherhood of Teamsters, 161 Eight Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*935*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. John F. McNamee, Editor and Manager, Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen's Magazine, 806-807 Traction Terminal Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd Inst. has been duly received, and I beg to advise it gives me pleasure to comply with your request to place Mr. Charles A. Wilson, Assistant President of your organization on the complimentary mailing list of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Presidnet, American Federation of Labor.[*936*] Z Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Edward S. Grece, Suit 49. Home Bank Building, Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of February 3rd, I beg to say that I am sending to you under separate cover copy of my report to the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor in which I gave a resume of the Buck's Stove and Range Company Injunction Case against the American Federation of Labor. In the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, 1909, copy of which is sent you under separate cover, I publish Judge Wright's decision in full and also an editorial review of the decision. I am also sending you copy of the injunction as issued by Justice Gould. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 937 X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, President, International Cigar Makers' Union, Monon Building, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 2d. instant with enclosed copy of a letter you sent to Mr. H. D. Thomas, Secretary of the Cleveland Central Labor Union, came duly to hand. In connection therewith, beg to call your attention to the fact that I sent a letter to Mr. Thomas, upon the same subject, and for your information enclose a copy of the same herein to you. Any suggestion that you care to make in regard to this matter, I should be pleased to act upon promptly. While I may not have very great hope as to the outcome, yet there is no question but what an effort should be made to adjust it and that [will] at least no blame can be placed upon the Cigar Makers' International Union for apparent failure to take whatever action may be necessary. With kindest regards and best wishes, and hoping to hear from you soon, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*938*] COPY. Washington, D. C., Jan. 26, 1909. Mr. H. D. Thomas, Secretary, United Trades and Labor Council, 717 Superior Ave., N. E., Cleveland, O. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter of Mr. Wm. J. Bowen, President of the Bricklayers' and Masons International Union, in which he enclosed me copies of letters received by him. For your information I enclose copies of those letters. The originals were addressed and sent to Mr. Merrick, President of the Sheet Metal Workers, Louisville, Ky. I ask you to consider this subject matter and bring it to the attention of the United Trades and Labor Council, and to cause an investigation into this matter to be made and report to the undersigned. If you could co-operate with the Building Trades Section or Council of your city in this matter it would be preferable. In any event, I trust that I may have a report upon the subject at the earliest possible moment. Surely trade union principles, the rights and interests of the toilers, are of such transcendant importance that a letter of the character written, and all that it implies, is repugnant and destructive to these very aims and high purposes of our cause. I entertain the hope that it will be found to have been some mistake rather than it be founded upon fact. With kindest regards, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor.[*939*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Walter C. Newcomb, Intercollegiate Debate Council, Hamilton, New York. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 3rd instant received and contents noted. You say you are to argue on the question, "Resolved that the United States should own and control the coal mines of the country". If you will kindly inform me on which side of the question your team is to debate, I will be glad to send you whatever information I can. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*940*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. G. M. Bierman, Secretary, Local #481, Socialist Party, Terrell, Texas. Dear Sir: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*941*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Harry Eichelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, General Delivery, York, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: As I wrote you some days ago, I have called a conference of the union label organizations to be held in Typographical Temple on March 3d., one of the purposes of this conference being the formation of a union label department of the American Federation of Labor. I think it would be well for you to bring your slides over and give an exhibition for an hour before the conference. Let me hear from you in regard to this. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*942*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. C. W. Perkins, President, Cigar Makers' International Union, Monon Building, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: As circumstances have so shaped themselves that I will not go to Chicago for February 12th as I originally intended, when I expected among other things conferring with you in regard to the conference called for the union label organizations on March third in this city, I am writing to request that you kindly write me with any suggestions which you may have to make in connection with this conference. As you know, one of the purposes for which the conference was called was for the consideration of the formation of a union label department of the American Federation of Labor. On behalf of the Cigar Makers' International Union, I would like to have something tangible to submit to this conference. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*943*] Y. February 5, 1909 Miss Mabel Smith, President, Federal Labor Union 11,478, 618 S. Osage Street, Girard, Kansas. Dear Madam: Your favor of January 30th received, and I note the question that has arisen as a result of the sale of the Book Department of the Appeal to Reason, relative to the right of the employes who will lose employment thereby, taking the places of those working in the business Department, on the ground that they have been members of the union for a longer period. I have read the sections of the agreement, copy of which you enclose, but do not find that they would warrant such a demand on the part of the organization, as outlined above. Agreements between firms and organizations usually provide for the employment of union members, and this covers all members alike without any distinction as to the length of the period of their membership in the union. In accepting persons to membership, the union agrees to do everything in its power to [?]otect their interests, and promote the opportunity for their employment under satisfactory conditions, and the latest member [*of*] a union when accepted to full membership, is entitled to [*the*] same recognition as given to any older member. It is unfortunate that[*944*] Miss Mabel Smith, Page 2. conditions should occasion the displacing of any members, but [*if*] the length of membership in the union is the only one on which the question of the right to employment is raised, I will say that according to union ethics and practices, it [*shou*]ld have no bearing on same. If the employes of the business [*dep*]artment, are members in good standing in the organization, and are [*pe*]rforming their duties to the full satisfaction of the firm, the [*unio*]n could not consistently demand their displacement. I understand from the sections of the agreement, which you furnish, that provision is made for the transfer of employes from one department to another, as the work may require or permit, and I trust that there will be opportunity, in this way, to provide for the members who have been affected by the sale of the Book Department. Of course, employers should give some consideration for faithful years of service. With kindest regards and best wishes for the welfare of the organization and members, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*945*] LF Feb. 5,1909 Mr. Thomas H. Palmer, Secretary, International Union of Slate Workers, Pen Argyl, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant is received and contents noted. I have just directed Organizer Frayne, who at present is in Philadelphia, to go to Harrisburg for Monday so as to co-operate with the committee from your International Union in appearing before the committee on mines and mining of the Pennsylvania State Legislature. I find that Organizer Wyatt has been assigned to work from which it will be impracticable at this time to remove him. Sincerely trusting that Mr. Frayne will be of material assistance to your organization, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*946*] LF Feb. 5, 19[09] Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: The Secretary of the International Union of Slate Workers has made the request that you should appear with the committee from his international union before the Committee on Mines and Mining of the Pennsylvania State Legislature on Monday, February 8th. This will probably involve a day or two of your time, and I am writing to you to request that you so arrange your matters as to be in Harrisburg on Monday, the 8th. Please advise me as to the result of the matter, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*947*] X. Feb, 1909. Mr. James Duncan, First Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Hancock Bldg., Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will recall that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, would very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, [that]XXXX each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their time to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of L[?]bor.[*948*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Second Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 281 Fourth Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will recall that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, would very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their time to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New YorkCity. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*949*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. James O'Connell, Third Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will recall that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, would very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their time to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*950*] X. Feb. 5 19[L]09 . Mr. Max Morris, Fourth Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 315 Appel Building, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will recall that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, would very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their time to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*951*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. D. A. Hayes, Fifth Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 390 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will recall that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, wou[o]ld very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their time to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*952*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Wm. D. Huber, Sixth Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, State Life Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will recall that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, would very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their time to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*953*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, Seventh Vice President, American Federation of Labor, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will re[d]call that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, would very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their ti[i]me to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*954*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. John R. Alpine, Eighth Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will recall that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, would very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their time to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*955*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Lincoln Farm Association, the Association for the purpose of making the birthplace of our martyred President a Mecca as well as a perpetual memorial of the great Commoner, is about to issue an appeal. You will recall that the Executive Council, as well as the Convention, gave the project unanimous endorsement. Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, the manager, would very much like to have, and I heartily second the desire, each member of the Executive Council write a sentiment consisting of not more than about one hundred words to the honor and memory of Lincoln. I ask the members of the Executive Council to devote a few minutes of their time to the expression of such a sentiment and to transmit it direct to Mr. Frederick E. Pierce, 74 Broadway, New York City. An early compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*956*] The attached letter was sent to the following: George W. Perkins, President, Cigarmakers' International Union, Monon Building, Chicago,Illinois. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis,Indiana. Wm. D. Mahan, President, Amalgamated Association of Street Railway Employes, Hodges Building, Detroit,Michigan. W. G. Gilthorp, General Secretary, Boilermakers' and Iron Shipbuilders' Union of North America, 312 Portsmouth Bldg., Kansas City,Kansas. Timothy Healy, President, International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, 193 Bowery, New York City, New York.[*957*] A February 6, 1909 Mr. James Kirby, President, Building Trades Department, American Federation of Labor, Ouray Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I have been advised that you have been notified to participate in a Conference at the Department of Commerce and Labor Wednesday morning February 10th. The members of the Executive Council have also been notified and in order that we may have an opportunity of consulting upon this subject you are respectfully requested to meet in Room 510 of the new offices of the American Federation of Labor 801 to 809 G Street northwest. It is the corner of G and 8th Streets. Kindly be in attendance at 7:30 Tuesday evening February 9th at Room 510, so that we may informally consult regarding the subject matter which is to be considered at the following morning's conference. With best wishes, I remain, Yours fraternally, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*958*] Z Feb. 5, 190[?] Mr. M. M. Smith, Mr. F. P. Carmichael, Mr. F. A. Rust, Officers, Seattle Labor Temple Assocation, Labor Temple, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Your favor of recent date to hand and contents noted. I have been exceedingly engrossed with work of the utmost importance and have been unable to give the subject matter of your letter earlier attention. I have written a letter to the Newboys' Union and enclose to you herein a copy thereof. Of course I want to assume the position that they may not be grossly guilty of improper conduct as is contained in your letter. I assume this for the purpose of trying to pla[d]ce the boys upon their honor and if the desired results can be accomplished in this way it is better for their own self-respect. In any event I shall ask you to keep me advised in regard to this and shall expect a letter from the union direct. Sincerely hoping that the change for the better will come and thanking you for bringing this matter to my attention and asking to be remembered to all our friends in Seattle, [?] [?]m Sincerely and fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*959*] Z Feb. 5, 190[?] Mr. James G. Murray, Secretary, Newsboys Protective Union 10141, 2620 East Aloha St., Seattle, Washn. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the officers of the Seattle Labor Temple Association complaining of the conduct of a large number of the members of your union, and this also insofar as the conduct of the officers of your union and the conduct of the members during, before and after the meeting. It is stated that the practice is general for a large number of your members both before and after your meetings to indulge in gambling and gambling games, and this too right in the presence of young boys who are members of your union. It is also stated that the conduct of some of the members of your union tends to destroy the desks, walls and other property of the Temple. Now it is not my purpose to read you a lecture, but your attention is called to the fact that if your union is to be maintained it ought to be helpful in improving rather than injuring the character and conduct of its members. I appeal to the members of your union for the sake of the union, I appeal to them for their own sakes, that this conduct be changed and changed at once. The American Federation of Labor, both of the country[*960*] Mr. James G. Murray---2--- and of your city cannot permit the good name to the injured by such conduct as I have enumerated and about which complaint is made. I do hope that after all some mistake has been made in the matter, but in any event I must ask you to consider this very seriously and bear in mind that the men among you should conduct themselves in a way to set a good example to the younger members and that the younger members themselves must assert themselves as being young men and boys of good, irreproachable conduct. You will please report to me fully upon this subject, for if the complaint is founded upon fact and no improvement takes place I shall report the entire facts to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor for such action as the Council may deem necessary to take. Sincerely hoping that my earnest wish for your welfare may prompt you all to a better future, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*961*] Z Feb. 6, 190[?] Mr. Victor L. Berger,) Mr. Thomas Feelay,) Committee, Mr. Wm. Schwab,) Federated Trades Council, 318 State St., Milwaukee, Wis. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, a[?] this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we ma[?] suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconveni[?]nce or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser impor[?]ance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of [?]ur Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and [?]ll our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to [?]he line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from [?]ow on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the commo[?] uplift I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federatio[?] of Labor.[*962*] XXXXXXXXXXX 801-809 G St. N.W. LF Feb. 8,1909. Mr. J. H. Strief, Secretary, Iowa State Federation of Labor, Sioux City, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*963*] XXXXXXXXXXXX 801-809 G St. N.W., LF Feb. 8,1909 Mr. Wm. Slattery, Secretary, Central Trades Council, 914 N Water Street, Bay City, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*964*] XXXXXXXXXXXX 801-809 G St. N.W., LF Feb. 8, 1909 Mr. Geo. Weidman, Secretary-Treasurer, Watch Case Engravers' International Association of America, P. O. Box 263, Canton, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made, and aremaking to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and a[?] friends, the necessity of the time to more closely hew to [?] to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from [?] to work harder than ever for the great cause of the com[?] I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Go[?] Preside[?], American Federation [?][*96[?]*] XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 801-809 G St. N.W., LF Feb. 6,1909 Mr. Lee W. Lange, Trades and Labor Assembly, Box 63, Muscatine, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time, in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*966*] XXXXXXXXXX 801-809 G St. N.W. LF Febr. 6, 1909 Messrs. Ralston & Siddons, Bond Building, Washington,D.C. Gentlemen: My attention has been called to a very important case bearing out our contentions in the Buck's Stove and Range Company Injunction Suit, made in the argument by Judge Parker and yourselves that a person cannot be held for contempt in violating an injunction issues contrary to law; an injunction which is void. This I am informed does not involve any matter of labor , but it is entirely applicable. The case cited to me is "Colorado Appelate, Dameron vs. Dingree 436". Many of these things come to me, intended to be helpful and when a matter appeals to my judgment as applying to our case in any way, I submit it to you for your consideration. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*967*] XXXXXXXXXX 801-809 G St. N. W. LF Feb. 6, 1909 Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your note is received in which you call attention to the case: "Colorado Appelate, Dameron vs. Dingree 436", and I thank you for it. I have advised our attorneys in regard to the matter and it may be helpful. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*968*] XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 801-809 G St., N. W. Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. J. D. Buckalew, Vice-President, A. F. of L., %Mr. John Doyle, 14 Temple Bar, Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir: Acknowledging receipt of your letter of February 5th until such time as Mr. Gompers can give it his personal attention I beg to advise you that Mr. Frank L. Rist, 1311 Walnut St., is organizer for Cincinnati. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers[*969*] xxxxxxx 801-809 G. St., N. W. Z Feb. 8, 1909 Mr. Antonio Arbuti, 315 Hanover St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 4th Inst., in which you ask if the Italian stone masons of Boston, who are at present unorganized, could organize a branch and receive a charter from the American Federation of Labor. In reply I beg to advise that I have referred your letter to our representative in Boston, Mr. Frank McCarthy, 97 Union Park St., Boston, Mass., with the request that he look after this matter. Undoubtedly you will hear from him within a short time. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*970*] xxxxxxxxxxx 801-809 G St., N. W. Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. Frank McCarthy, Organizer, 97 Union Park St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: The following letter has just been received by me, from Mr. Antonio Arbuti, 315 Hanover St., Boston: "A large number of Italian non-union stone masons would like to know if they could organize a branch of your organization with a charter. Please send me a book of by-laws." I have advised Mr. Arbuti that the matter has been turned over to you for the necessary attention. Will you kindly look after this matter advising at your early convenience? With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*971*] xxxxxxxxxxx OURAY BUILDING, Z Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. L. W. Butler, Secretary, The Central Labor Council, 540 Maple Av., Los Angeles, Cal. Dear Sir: President Gompers instructs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 2nd Inst., with which you enclose the semi-annual report of the Secretary-Treasurer, of the Council and the newly-elected officers of the Council. He is very glad to receive this. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers. [*972*] Z Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. F. P. Hadlock, Organizer, 516 E. Grand Ave., Marshall, Tex. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each onem yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to tge line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*973*] XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX OURAY BUILDING, Z Feb. 8, 1909. Col. John A. Joyce, 226 Md. Ave., N. E. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, in all walks of life have also telegraphed and written me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, but I want to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience of suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*974*] xxxxxxxxxxxxx 801-809 G St., [?]. W. Z Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. John F. McNamee, Editor and Manager, Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen's Magazine, Traction Terminal Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th Inst. to hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that the last information given me in regard to the Alaska-Yukon Exposition was to the effect that a controversy existed between organized labor and the Management of this Exposition. So far as I have been advised the controversy has never been adjusted. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Am making further inquiry in re above & will again advise you. S.G.[*975*] Z Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. F. H. Frielander, Beck Theatre, Co., Bellingham, Washn. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 3rd Inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that my duties are so many and pressing that I could not undertake this year the series of lectures you suggest. Very truly yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*976*] Z Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. James Powers, Fin. Secretary, L. B. U. #9649, 46 Elkins Street, Franklin, N. H. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th inst. received and contents noted. I beg to say in reply that I have been officially advised that Mr. Fitzgerald is no longer connected with the Pulp and Sulphite Workers and that prospects are favorable for the amalgamation of that organization with the Paper Makers. In any event, a special representative of the A. F. of L. will be in Boston today to meet in conference with the representatives of the two contending organizations. It is most sincerely hoped that all the questions of difference can be amicably and satisfactorily adjusted. With best wises, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*977*] M February 8, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: The demands on my time are so great, I find it impossible to affix my name to each and every warrant for the month of January, and have, therefore, authorized the use of a rubber stamp, the same being a fac simile of my signature on warrants as follows: No. 20428 January 2, 1909, to an including January 30, 1909,No. 20629, amounting to $14275.76. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*978*] M February [?], 1909. Mr. William A. Schafer, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Boonville, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 29th is at hand is at hand, in which you request the services of Brother M. Grant Hamilton, to attend the First District Labor Conference, to be held in Boonville, March 11, 1909. In reply I beg to say that Brother Hamilton has been ill, and just returned to work the first of February. He is now engaged with the Electrical Workers controversy, which will take up his entire attention for sometime to come. I do not see that it will be possible now to send him to Boonville, but if you will write us again the latter part of this month, we will see what we can do. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*979*] M February 8, 1909. Mr. Samuel Prince, 275 Seventh St., New York City. Dear Friend Sam: Your favor of the 4th instant to hand and contents noted. The action you have taken in the matter to help raise funds for the legal defense in the Injunction proceedings against Mitchell, Morrison, and me, meets with my entire approval. As to your question let me say that I know of no one who has approached Mr. Parsons or any other one belonging to the organization he represents. More than likely something may be done in that direction. If you will get your action going you might talk to someone who could put into operation in another direction. The expenses of the legal defense and appeals in both the original injunction and contempt proceedings, involves an immense sum, far beyond the means of the individuals or the funds of the Federation. Thanks for the clippings. With best wishes for success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*980*] New York, N. Y., February 10, 1909. SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR LEGAL DEFENSE. In the injunction and Contempt Proceedings against the American Federation of Labor, its officers, and its affiliated organizations, under which Samuel Gompers, John Mitchell, and Frank Morrison, have been sentenced to imprisonment for one year, nine months and six months respectively, and in which proceedings the freedom of assemblage, the freedom of speech, and freedom of the press are involved; these priceless constitutional guarantees now being so valiantly contended for, and recognizing the immense expenditures involved in these cases of first importance, the undersigned subscribe the amounts set opposite their respective names for the legal defense of Gompers, Mitchell, and Morrison, and for the preservation of the inherent rights of free press and free speech. NAMES AMOUNTS[*981*] X. Feb. 5, 1909. Ralston and Siddons, Bond Building, City. Gentlemen: Today I am in receipt of a letter from Hon. William Velpeau Rooker, of Indianapolis, Indiana. Mr. Rooker is the attorney who appealed and argued the case of Bessette— I forget the exact title of the case, you will remember it. Some favorable decision was rendered to the United States Supreme Court in the case. Mr. Rooker wrote an article for the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST at my request which I enclose. I believe that he is in the front rank of the legal profession of Indiana. In his letter he says that since the decision and sentence, some of my friends have entreated him to tender his legal services and that he knows how thoroughly I am provided with counsel and he has therefore declined to take any step. The day of his writing to me he was approached by a man of high authority who said that his work was the "guide post" of the judiciary in contempt cases, and that he, Mr. Rooker, owed it to society to take part in my case on the writ of error to the Circuit Court of Appeals. Mr. Rooker answered as he had others. He was finally prevailed upon to ask me what the situation in the case [?] Mr. Rooker adds that it is true, as his frie[?][*982*] Ralston and Siddons --3-- suggested, that it is only by virtue of his work in the Bassett case that I am now at liberty and can prosecute an appellate proceeding. I have every confidence in Mr. Rooker's ability and sincerity, but I do not know exactly how to make suitable reply, for I want the views you yourselves entertain, as well as the view which you think Judge Parker entertains. Will you kindly drop me a note in regard to this matter so that I can make suitable answer to Mr. Rooker. If you care to write to him direct, address him at the Lincke Building, Indianapolis, or Noblesville, Indiana. In any event, kindly let me hear from you as early as convenient, and oblige, Yours sincerely, Saml.Gompers. President, AmericanF ederation of Labor. P. S. As we are moving into our new offices, and have not as yet gotten all of our matters straight, I find that I cannot just now put my hand on the copy of the May issue, 1904, of the American Federationist, in which Mr. Rooker's article appears. Perhaps you have a copy. If not, I will send it to you later. Saml.Gompers.[*983*] AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR Executive Council. President, SAMUEL GOMPERS. Secretary, FRANK MORRISON. Treasurer, JOHN B. LENNON, Bloomington, Ill. First Vice-President, JAMES DUNCAN, Hancock Bldg., Quincy, Mass. Second Vice-President, JOHN MITCHELL, 281 Fourth Avenue, New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, JAMES O'CONNELL, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, MAX MORRIS, 315 Appel Building, Denver, Colo. Fifth Vice-President, D. A. HAYES, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Sixth Vice-President, WM. D. HUBER, State Life Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Seventh Vice-President, JOS. F. VALENTINE, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Eighth Vice-President, JOHN R. ALPINE, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR ORGD NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE, MAIN 3871-2. CABLE ADDRESS, 'AFEL.' 423-425 G ST. N. W. Ouray Building, Washington, D. C. X. Feb. 8, 1909. NO. 12. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: Enclosed you will find a letter addressed to myself, from Mr. M. Grant Hamilton, Organizer for the American Federation of Labor, and who has acted as a representative of the American Federation of Labor in the Electrical Workers' dispute. You will remember the decision rendered by the Executive Council recognizing Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively, of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. With that, of course, has gone the recognition of all other officers who are loyal to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and recognized the agreement reached at Denver. As stated in Mr. Hamilton's letter, in order to best protect the Brotherhood in its rightful claims, it will be necessary to recognize and incorporate the name of Mr. J. E. McCadden as Grand XXXXXXXr Treasurer of the Brotherhood, and I submit the proposition that Mr. McCadden's name be added in the decision rendered by the Executive Council at its meeting here last month. Please return your vote on this proposition at your earliest convenience,984 Executive C ounell---3--- and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*985*] COPY. Washington, D. C., Feb. 8, 1909. Samuel Gompers, Esq., President, American Federation of Labor. Dear Sir and Brother: In the matter of the Electrical Workers, owing to the fact that the secessionists have instituted many suits at law and in equity affecting the finances of the organization, it is imperative that the name of J. E. McCadden, grand treasurer, appear in conjunction with the names of F. J. McNulty, grand president, and Peter W. Collins, grand secretary, in the decision reached by the Executive Council. In the decision reached by the Council, for all purposes of the movement itself, it is conclusive enough, but in this particular case it is necessary to speify the name of J. E. McCadden, grand treasurer, in order that the funds of the brotherhood may be protected, and that the suits at law and in equity may be successfully defended. Hoping that it may be possible to set upon this suggestion at once, as that is also imperative, I am Yours fraternally, (signed) M. Grant Hamilton, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor.[*986*] Z Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. Maurice Mikol, 18 Rue Ba[?]bette, Paris, France. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Feb. 5th was duly received and contents noted. Immediately upon receipt I sent out and the six eagles bought and forwarded to your New York address as requested by you. They only cost sixty cents. I will hold the remaining $2.40 until you direct me what I shall do with it or to whom I shall forward it. In conformity with my promise, I am sending to you under separate cover some additional literature published by this office which I trust will reach you safely. I have handed your letter to Mr. Morrison with the request that he write you direct as regards the gloves. Reciprocating your good wishes, and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*987*] Z Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. W. J. Spencer, Secretary-Treasurer, Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., 801-809 G St., N. W., City. Dear Sir: President Gompers has directed me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 5th submitting an agreement between the Operative Plasters' International Union and the American Brotherhood of Cement Workers, and to thank you for the information furnished. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*988*] Z Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. B. A. Larger, General Secretary, United Garment Workers of America, Bible House, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th Inst. duly received. I beg to advise I have received the lithographs bearing facsimile of a blacksmith, and desire to thank you for your kindness in securing same for me. It is appreciated by me. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*989*] Z Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. Thos. Rumsey, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Clarke's Hall, Toledo, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your letter. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this acknowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time in the effort we have made, and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right, and the Constituional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to [t]]our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*990*] Z Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. C. R. Stickler, Secretary, Union No. 584, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America, 161 Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 31st has been duly received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that the suggestion you make as to the course to pursue in the interests of your local union should be taken up with the Executive officers of the Brotherhood of Paper Hangers for as you can very readily understand as each International organization has entire jurisdiction over its own trade union affairs, the officers of the American Federation of Labor would not be warranted in taking any such action with the locals of an International unless the International officers would so request. I want to assure you, however, that it is my desire to be helpful in every way I possibly can to your organization as well as to all organized labor and if the matter about which you write is brought to my attention through the executive officers of your International Brotherhood I shall be glad to do whatever I can to be helpful. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President[*991*] Z Feb. 9, 1909. Franklin Pimbley, Recording Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, L. U. 696, P. O. Box 599, Tampa, Fla. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Feb. 6th has been received. In reply let me say that any member in good standing in the union of his trade is eligible for election to any office within the gift of the union. Your question is general in character and I have replied in general terms. I would like to hear from you further in regard to the matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*992*] xxxxxxxxxxx 801-809 G St., N. W., Z Feb. 8, 1909. Mr. William Velpau Rooker, Noblesville, Ind. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 1st Inst., which was received here on the 5th, and to say to you that he will write to you in a few days and in the meantime he thanks you most sincerely for your letter and the offer you make. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*993*] X. Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. W. L. Ellarson, Secretary, Local #191, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Labor Temple, Everett, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 31st to hand and contents noted. I beg to advise that at the recent meeting of the Executive Council, of the American Federation of Labor, at which the representatives of both sides of this Electrical Workers' controversy were present, this entire subject matter was thoroughly gone into. Inasmuch as Mr. Reid and his associates repudiated every part of the agreement made at Denver, refused to discontinue litigation before the courts, refused to accept the bank designated for the funds, and Mr. McNulty and his associates complied with every provision of the agreement, the Executive Council in the interests of the Electrical Workers of the Brotherhood, and of the general labor movement, recognized Mr. McNulty and Mr. Collins as President and Secretary respectively of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The Electrical Workers local unions are urged to recognize Mr. Collins and Mr. McNulty as such bona fide officers of the Brotherhood. Organized labor the country over is appealed to give their support. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. Pres. American Federation of Labor. [*994*] X. Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. A. Gordon, Recording Secretary, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local #77, Room 13, Labor Temple, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the second instant and to thank you for the contribution made by your organization to the legal defense fund. He appreciates it greatly and would write to you personally but for the very great pressure of other important matters, requiring his immediate and undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*995*] X. Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. Max Morris, Fourth Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 315 Appel Building, Denver, Colo. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from Mr. John Wadsworth , of #2, Huddersfield Road, Barnsley, Yorks, England, in which he requests me to send him copy of the newspaper containing an account of the recent railroad collision in Colorado. I would appreciate it very much if you would kindly have one of the Denver papers sent to him. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*996*] X. Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. John Wadsworth, Delegate, British Trades Union Congress to Denver Convention, 2, Huddersfield Road, Barnsley, Yorks, England. My dear Mr. Wadsworth: Your favor of January 25th has been duly received and contents noted. Yes, I received a copy of the price lists and agreement of the Yorkshire Miners' Association, and I thank you for the same. It was an oversight that I did not acknowledge same before. I also received the book of views of Barnsley for which you will please accept my thanks. It was very kind of you indeed to remember me in this way. The contempt case and the injunction case will probably not come up until some time next fall. This will afford me the opportunity of making the trip to England and to the continent. I look forward with great pleasure to the opportunity of again meeting you, Mrs. Wadsworth, and Mr. Skinner. I shall endeavor to get a copy of the Denver paper containing an account of the recent railroad collision and send it to you. I am unacquainted with those who were injured or killed by the accident. Reciprocating the kind regards of yourself and Mrs. Wadsworth in which Mrs. Gompers joins, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml.Gompers. President, [?]on of Labor[*997*] X. Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. J. R. Harris, Secretary, Central Trades Council, Box 1514, Seattle, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Not having heard anything from you recently as to what has been done in regard to the Alaskan-Yukon expedition. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word upon this subject. Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*998*] X. Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators, and Paperhangers of America, Drawer 199, Lafayette, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant received and contents noted. Now in regard to the circular appeal, beg to say that we will send it out from the office direct to the local of your Brotherhood. Probably a word in your official journal in regard to that matter might be helpful. You say that President Balhorn will be in Washington in the near future. I sincerely trust that he can arrange as to make his visit here at a time when I am at Headquarters so that I may have the opportunity of seeing him. You know I am quite frequently called away upon important business. You might suggest to him to let me know in advance. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*999*] X. Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. J. W. Hays, Secretary, Executive Council, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am sending to you by express today 900 copies of the appeal. I am indeed gratified to know that your international union will give the same an endorsement and send them out to your local unions. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*1000*] M February 9, 1909. Mr. George T. Bert, 217 Scott St., Youngstown, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of February 5, is at hand, in which you state that you would like us to place you if it is possible. I presume you mean as salaried organizer, and beg to say that just at this time it would not be possible to appoint you, as the Federation funds are in such a condition at present as to make it impossible to appoint any additional organizers. However, a note will be made of your request, and when found possible to appoint new organizers, your request will be given consideration. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*1001*] M February 9, 1909. Mr. William F. McCollum, Secretary, Local #971, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Reno, Nevada. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 1st instant is at hand, in which you state that V. D. Wells heartily endorsed by your Local as general organizer for the A. F. of L. In reply I beg to say that before commission is issued to Brother Wells, it will be necessary for him to receive the official endorsement of the Central Trades and Labor Council of Reno, as volunteer organizer's commissions are always issued upon the recommendations of central bodies where such are in existence. Upon receipt of such endorsement the matter will be given prompt consideration. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*1002*] M February 9, 1909. Mr. E. W. Starkey, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 418 Roosevelt Ave., Shawnee, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of February 1, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been brought to my attention, in which you state the Trades and Labor Assembly recommends the appointment of C. Tullis, as volunteer organizer for Shawnee and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Tullis in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*1003*] M February 9, 1909. Mr. Wallace S. Wilson, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 3 Delord St., Plattsburg, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 29th is at hand, in which you state the Trades and Labor Assembly recommends the appointment of J. C. Malamphy, as volunteer organizer for Plattsburg and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Malamphy in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*1004*] M February 9, 1909. Mr. Walter S. Bush, Secretary, Peoria Trades Assembly, 225 North Adams St., Peoria, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 26th is at hand, in which you request us to send an organizer to Peoria for a while to help build up the organizations in that city. In reply I beg to say that I fully appreciate the situation in your territory, but it is impossible just now to send an organizer to your section, owing to the state of the Federation funds. However, a note will be made of your request, and if found possible later to do so, will be glad to comply therewith. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.1005 M February 9, 1909. Mr. John J. Carroll, Central Bldg., 143 Liberty St., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 4th instant is at hand, in which you state that you are to take part in a debate on the question of the "Open Shop" and are to uphold the "Closed Shop," and desire some literature on the subject. In reply would say, that I took up question of the union shop commonly referred to as the "closed shop" in my reports to the Sand Francisco, Pittsburg and Norfolk conventions, copies of which are mailed to you. I am also sending you pamphlet of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from the time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the offical publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work, How, When and Where He Pleases," by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow entitled "The Open Shop," published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabasg Ave., Chicago, Ill., and listed at ten cents per copy. I would also call attention to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop", a report of which appeared in the February 17, 1905, issue of the "The Journal," Rochester, N.Y.1006 J. J. C. 2. Inasmuch as the subject matter of which you will debate is fully covered in the matters referred to above, you are kindly requested to refer to the literature being sent to you under separate cover, as I have not the necessary time to discuss the matter at length in this letter. Should there be any published report made of your debate, I will appreciate it, if you will kindly see that copy is sent to me. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.1007 X. Feb. 9, 1909 Mr. Fred M. Knight, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 7 Henry St., Haverhill, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the sixth instant received and contents noted. In regard to the matter of controversy between the Boot and Shoe Workers International Union and the Douglas Shoe Company, I beg to say that the Executive Council has done and is now doing everything that it possibly can to be helpful in effecting an adjustment. It is hoped that our efforts will yet be crowned with success. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Grompers President, American Federation of Labor.1008 X. Feb. 9, 1909. Secretary, Syndicat General de Dessinateurs, Corris & Assimiles, Maison des Federations 33, Rue Grange-aux-Belles, Paris, France. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of January 15th to hand and contents noted. I appreciate greatly your sentiments, but I regret to say that we have no union of draughtsman affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. However, the President of the International Association of Machinists advises me that while his Association des not accept into membership men who work exclusively as draughtsman, yet every first-class machinists is more or less of a draughtsman, and where he is working at this particular line in connection with the machinists' trade he is admitted to membership in the International Association of Machinists. The President of the pattern Makers League of North America advises me that this organization is now considering the advisability of admitting draughtsman to membership. Thinking that you may be interested in the literature which this office publishes in the French language, I am sending copies of the name to you under separate cover. I should be pleased to hear from you again whenever convenient. Before closing I might say that I anticipate visiting1009 Secretary --2-- Paris some time next summer, probably in July, when I shall hope to have the opportunity of meeting you. Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.1010 80I-809xxxx Feb. 8, 1909 Mr. Robert Pyne, The Labor Standard, 43 Brown St., Hartford, Conn. Dear Sir: Your favor of February 2nd has been duly received and contents noted. I fully agree with you that more information along the lines of interest to labor could be given through the medium of a weekly letter and I have been requested a number of thes before this to take up some plan similar in character to the one you suggested. Of course you appreciate the fact that I could not undertake to do so in any one instance and refuse to do so in another, and while I would like to be helpful in every instance yet at the present I do not see how it would be practicable for me to do so. Very Truly yours, [signature Sam Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.1011 z. Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 5th Inst., and in reply beg to advise that I expect probably to be in New York about the 20th and my be able to see Mr. Joseph Barondess, Mr. Miller and the co-publishers of the Hebrew paper, "The Warheit", then. The marked copy of the "New York Evening call" has been duly received. Please accept thanks for same. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, [signature Sam Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor. 1012 Feb. 9, 1909. z- Mr. W. J. Spencer, Secretary-Treasurer, Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., #4I2-4I4 Ouray Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter just received from Secretary Smith of the Montana State Federation of Labor, he says among other things: "The Plasters and the Plumbers, also a non-affiliated organization, are working hard now to forma Building Trades Council. Several of the Building Trades' locals do not think the town is big enough to support a trades assembly and a building trades council, [they] and if they are compelled to go into the building trades council, they will have to leave the trades assembly, much as they would regret it. I have conended all along that all locals must be affiliated with and remain in the American Federation Trades Assembly before they would be graned a charter by the Building Trades Department. I have been requested to write you and urge you to protest to the officers of the Building Trades Department against the granting of a charter to a building trades council in Helena until all unions affiliate with and agree to remain with the Helena Trades and Labor Assembly." In view of the fact that an application for a charter will doubtless be made to your department by the Building Trades of Helena I thought it well to advise you of the above and have so informed Secretary Smith. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, [Sam Gompers signature] President, A. F. of L.1013 z. Feb. 9, 1909 Mr. Howard O. Smith, Secretary, Montana Federation of Labor, Box 723, Helena, Mont. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th Inst. received and contents noted. In regard to the matter of he Building Trades Council let me say that the Constitution of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L. provides that local unions of the Building Trades must be represented in the Central labor Union of the locality before they will be admitted to representation in the Building Trades Council. However, I am advising the officers of the Building Trades Department of your letter to me so that they may have the matter in mind when they take up the subject of issuing the charter to the Building Trades Council of Helena. As to the jurisdictional controversy between the Brotherhood of Cement Workers and the Operative Plasters, I am advised that a signed agreement has been entered into between the representatives of both organizations and it is hoped by this agreement that further cause for friction between the two organizations will have been removed. With best wishes, I am Fraternally your, [Sam Gompers Signature] President, American Federation of Labor.1014 Z Feb. 9, 1909 Mr. Andrew P. Martin, P. O. Box 207, Tucson, Arizona Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 4th inst. in which you ask for my opinion on the relation of the militia to labor, I beg to say a man who is a wage earner and honorably working at his trade or calling to support himself and those dependent upon him, has not only the right to become a citizen soldier, but that right must be unquestioned. The militia, i.e., the citizen soldiery of the several states in our country, supplies what otherwise might take its place- a large standing army. The difference between the citizen soldiery of the United States and the large standing armies of many [European] countries is the difference between a republic and a monarchy - it is the difference between the conception of liberty and tyranny. While organized labor stands against the arbitrament of international or internal disputes by force of arms, yet we must realize we have not yet reached the millennium; that in the age in which we live we have not the choice between armed force and absolute disarmament, but the alternative of a large standing army1015 Mr. Andrew P. Martin---2--- and a small one supplemented by a volunteer citizen soldiery - the militia of our several states. With this both wisdom and policy, as well as principle, should warrant our trade unions in not taking any cognizance of the matter at all, allowing each member to follow the bent of his own inclinations, insisting only that he shall be a wage earner, a faithful member of his union, and true to the cause of labor - the cause of humanity. Very truly yours, [Signature Sam Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.1016 February 10,1909. M Mr. Arthur W. Cochran, 1542 West Garrison St., Fremont, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of February 7th is at hand, relative to organizing a Woman’s International Union Label League, and beg to refer you to Mrs. Anna B. Fields, Elwood, Indiana, Secretary of the Woman’s International Union Label League, who will furnish you with all information necessary to organize such a League. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.1017 M February 10, 1909. Mr. William D. Huber, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, State Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find correspondence from and in connection with one William Doss, of Central City, Ky. He claims to be a carpenter, and upon the recommendation of the Central Body of Central City, was issued a commission as volunteer organizer on November 27, 1908. Attached to the correspondence is a summary of the case, all of which is submitted to you for your consideration with the request that you kindly give me any information or advice that you can in regard to Mr. Doss. I am sending you the original correspondence which I request you to kindly return with your reply. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.1018 M February 10, 1909. Mr. Williams Welch, 38 Grant Place, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: I am directed by President Gompers to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 3rd instant, and to say that he read the same with a great deal of interest. Very truly yours, [??????????] Sec. to President Gompers.1019 M February 10, 1909. Mr. James B. Drake, Organizer, Rooms 202-203 Hood Bldg., Birmingham, Ala. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of February 4th is received relative to the expiration of your commission, and beg to say that same does not expire until February 28, when it will be re-issued and forwarded to you. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.1020 M February 10, 1909. Mrs. Kissiar Johes, 678 Park Ave., New Iberia, La. Dear Madam: Your favor of the 4th instant is at hand, and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that our records show that Domestics Protective Union #12013 has been suspended for non-payment of dues, and it will, therefore, be necessary for your organization to get a new charter, and enclose to you herein application blank. This blank should be filled in with the names of the seven of the officers or members of the organization, and forwarded to this office with a statement as to the nature of the work performed. If you desire to retain the old number, and use the books and seal of the old organization, you can do so. In that case the charter fee will be $5.00. If, however, you desire to start as a new organization , the charter and charter outfit fee will be $10.00. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you further, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 1021 M February 10, 1909. Mr. Ernest G. Pape, Secretary, Int'l Brotherhood of Woodsmen and Saw Mill Workers, 1613 Second St., Eureka, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: A letter has been received at this office from Mr. A. J. King, Pioneer, Ga., relative to organizing the hewed timber and the tie- makers. He states there are about 100 men who desire to organize. If these men come under the jurisdiction of your organization, kindly furnish Mr. King with the necessary information and literature to ef- fect an organization. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Grompers President American Federation of Labor.1022 M February 10, 1909. Mr. W. S. Bradford, Secretary, Amalgamated Food Workers Int'l Union of America, Local #277, 211 Tomlinson St., High Point, N. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 1st instant is at hand, in which you request that a resident organizer be appointed for the State of North Carolina. In reply I beg to say that I have talked the matter over with Secretary Morrison, as to the state of the Federation funds, and I do not see how we could arrange it now so as to comply with your request for the appointment of a special organizer for the State of North Carolina. The funds of the Federation, so Secretary Morrison informs me, are at a low ebb, by reason of which it has been necessary for us to discontinue some of the men who have been at work. We have received request after request from the national and international unions, and state federations of labor for the appointment of special organizers and for assistance in legislative work, to all of which for the reasons just stated, I have been compelled to reply as above. If circumstances so shape themselves later on as to permit compliance with your request, you can rest assured that we will gladly do so. 1023 W. S. B. 2. Regretting exceedingly that circumstances are such as to compel me to write as above, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.1024 M February 10, 1909. Mr. Albert E. Martin, P. O. Box 95, Walden, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that before commission can be issued to you as volunteer organizer for Walden, it will be necessary for you to receive the official endorsement of the Central Labor Union of that city. You will understand this is the rule always by this office in the appointment of volunteer organizers where central bodies exist. Upon receipt of this endorsement the matter will be given prompt consideration. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you further, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 1025 X. Feb. 10, 1909. Mr. G. E. di Palma Catiglione, Manager, Labor Information Office for Italians, 59 Lafayette St., New York City. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 9th instant, which came to hand this morning just before he left to attend the conference called by Secretary Straus. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 1026 X. Feb. 10, 1909. Hon. Robert Bacon, Secretary of State, Washington, D.C. Sir: On January 14th, together with my colleagues of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, I handed to President Roosevelt a letter signed jointly by my colleagues in regard to the extradition of the Russian and Mexican political refugees, with particular reference to Jan Pouren. Secretary Loeb advised me that the papers have been turned over to your department. I neglected to retain a copy of our letter to the President, and I would therefore appreciate it if you would kindly have a copy made and sent to me. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy, I have the honor to remain, Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. 1027 X. Feb. 10, 1909. Mr. G. W. Perkins, President, Cigar Makers' International Union, Monon Building, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant to hand and contents noted. I am glad you talked the matter over with Mr. Clifford relative to the Union Label Digest. At present it is impossible for me to say whether I can make Chicago for March first, and yet I may be able to do so. I take it for granted that you will be one of the delegates of the Cigar Makers' International Union to attend the union label conference to be held in this city beginning the morning of March third. In view of the fact that the inauguration of the President elect will take place on March 4th, you can readily understand that traffic from all over the country toward Washington will be to the fullest limit of the capacity of the roads, and I would therefore suggest that as soon as possible after receiving this, you make reservation for the train leaving Chicago early on the morning of March 2nd. It might be well to make the reservation for me so that we can both have lower berths. I think there is a train leaves Chicago early in the morning over one of the roads due here about eight o'clock. I want to be here in time for the opening of the conference. If I go to Chicago, I will then accompany you on the train returning here. 1028 Mr. G. W. Perkins --2-- If I come to Chicago for the first it might be well for you to arrange a conference some time during the day for Mr. Clifford and me. With best wishes, and anticipating the please of seeing you soon, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 1029 X. Feb. 10, 1909. Mr. Maurice Brown, 190 Bowery, New York City. Friend Maurice: Your favor of the 8th instant to hand and contents noted with a great deal of interest. I sincerely hope that Mrs. Brown will be benefitted by the result of the matters which we discussed orally and in correspondence. I ask you to kindly remember me to her. It was very gratifying to learn of the action of Union #144 in both particulars you mention. I am sure that a strong, dignified protest by the hosts of labor at the meeting would do much to clarify the air and to create public sentiment to restore to the workers the rights from which they have been shorn. It may not be amiss for me to suggest that both in the speeches as well as in resolutions which may be adopted, the fact of relief from the operations of the Sherman Anti Trust Law should not be omitted. This is quite as important as relief from the judicial invasion of the rights of free assemblage, free speech, and free press, and are of as great importance, surely, as the liberties of Mitchell, Morrison or myself. Of course, this should not be omitted, but the other two must not be lost sight of. If the editorials in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, reviewing the Supreme Court decision and1030 Maurice Brown --2-- reviewing Justice Wright's decision are carefully read, I think that they will help to form a good basis for resolutions. Of course, this is in the way of suggestion. The first editorial to which I refer was published in the March, 1908, Federationist, the other in the February, 1909, issue of the American Federationist. I appreciate, too, the action which which you say union 144 took relative to contribution toward the defense fund. You may not be willing to admit the "soft impeachment" but I imagine it is not difficult for me to infer who the "socialist" was who advocated the higher appropriation, but as a matter of fact all union men, so long as they are decent union men, look alike to me, without regard to their theoretical or political preferences. Anyway, I want to thank you for your assistance in the matter. After all, the fight that I am making is not a personal contest, but one in furtherance of the rights and liberties of the workers and of all the people. With best wishes, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 1031 X. Feb. 10, 1909. Mr. Charles Edward Russell, The Broztell, Fifth Av., 27th Street, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 8th instant, advising you will be unable to come to Washington for the promised interview on Thursday, the 11th, owing to a previous engagement, has be duly received. In reply I beg to advise you that it will be entirely agreeable to me for you to call here, say about noon on Wednesday, February 17th. Although I am and shall be very much engrossed with my work, yet it will be my pleasure to afford you ample time to accomplish the purpose of your visit. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.1032 Z Feb. 9, 1909. Mr. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter in which information is requested as to whether the employees of the Hearst newspaper are more highly paid than employees in corresponding grades of work on other newspapers. If you can give me any further information along these lines I would appreciate it greatly. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. In addition to giving me the information I wish you would convey it to Mr. Louis Reese, Grand Ave., Newburgh, N. Y., as he is the gentleman who make the inquiry from me.1033 Z Feb. 10, 1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Box #187, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find the monthly report of your organization to the American Federation of Labor. Will you kindly see that the same is signed and returned to this office. You will note the signature has been omitted. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.1034 Z Feb. 10, 1909. Mr. C. E. Heritage, Secretary, Branch #14, Glass Bottle Blowers' Assn., Woodbury, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Permit me to thank you for your message. Many other friends, fellow-workers and sympathizers in all walks of life have also written and telegraphed me, and while I would like to reply to each one, yet I find it impossible to convey in a letter all that is in my mind to say, and therefore I am making this ack- nowledgment of your message and to say to you that from the many communications of this character which have been sent to me, I believe I am right in saying that the great mass of liberty-loving American people are with John Mitchell, Frank Morrison and me, at this crucial time in the effort we have made and are making to maintain the principle of justice and right and the Constitutional guarantees of the freedom of speech and of the press. Regardless of personal results, we are confident that the principles for which we contend, and for which we may suffer, will be restored, maintained, and permanently guaranteed to all our people, the workers included. Temporary inconvenience or suffering of anyone, or of a few men, is of lesser importance than the establishment of equal justice to all the people of our Republic. Under the circumstances, and in view of my many duties, you will realize the impossibility of my dealing more fully with this subject in this communication. With kind regards and impressing upon you and all our friends the necessity of the time to more closely hew to the line, to devote ourselves unreservedly to our duties, and from now on to work harder than ever for the great cause of the common uplift, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 1035 Z Feb. 10, 1909. Mr. Henry G. Ratz, Organizer, Route 3, Box 95, Kankakee, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your post card of Feb. 2nd, advising you have not re- ceived the letter heads recently sent you have not been received, came duly to hand. I have today forward to you another supply of letter heads which I trust will reach you in due time. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.COPY. Washington, D. C., Jan. 14, 1909. Hon. Theodore Roosevelt, President of the United States, Washington, D. C. Sir: Accompanying this, the undersigned beg to submit memoranda upon the subject of the right of asylum in the United States for political refugees and also specific cases involved. The incidents related in the memoranda are from the most reliable sources avail- able to us. This matter is submitted to you for your consideration, in hope that you may safeguard the right of asylum in the republic of our country. We have the honor to remain, Very Respectfully yours, (signed) Sam'l. Gompers, " James Duncan, " John Mitchell, " Jas. O'Connell, " Max Morris, " D. A. Hayes, " Wm. D. Huber, " Jos. F. Valentine, " John R. Alpine, " John B. Lennon, " Frank Morrison, Executive Council, American Federation of Labor.