Samuel Gompers Letterbooks Volume 151 Nov. 9, 1909 - Dec. 22, 1909 ac. 13. 745Auburn Silk Mills 21 Atkinson Thos. 38-920 Alpine John R. 70-132-255-309-334-884 Allis Asselstine W. D. 105-730 Alexander De Abra S. 298 Anston J. R. T. 556 Avery Martha Moore 557 Anderson O. N. 564 Avery Rachail Foster 638-1011 Allen W. H. 648 Appleton W. A. 723 Akers Dwight L. 763 Adams C. H. 828 Armsdorf Henry G. 863 Abrahams Henry 874-996Barrett Chas. S. 8-827 Baker Sylvestar A. 45-174 Baumeister Albert 48 Barker Wharton 143 Bennett A. W. 264 Berres Geo. L. 308 Bessinger Geo. 397 Bates J. J. 400 Becks Gertrude 582-789 Bert Geo. T. 631 Barnard Miss Kate 686 Biggar H. H. 709 Bangham Chas. F. 773 Ballinger Richard A. Hon. 840-970 Bushnell Paul 924 Barr S. R. 929Bradford G.P. 2 Black J. E. 11 Bu[?]che Fred A. 86 Brennan J[?]e 113 Burmaster H. J. M. 124 Burket Louis 142 Bray John E. 151 Bodine Geo. [c]. 160-238-239-316 Bullock Henry W. 170-560 Bloom J. E. 196 Blanton H. C. 200 Buttell Jas. 211 Brill Maurice M. 240 Bowden John F. 247 Briscoe R. E. 249 Brinkman John H. 265 Bolan Marie 542 Briggs[-] A. E. 594 Boyle Jas. P. 672-889-908-928 Brais E. J. 745 Brown Demarchus c. 762 Braucher S. H. 880-973 Bryan W. E. 89[?] Buffalo Republic 991Chiajery Nicholas 36 Cady Paper Co. 42 Canader Frank 51 Cass Gus. A. 83 Carlisle News Co. 88 Cameron Frank W. 94-413 Chapell L. T. 106-671 Chapman E. H. 107-670 Cannon Jos. G. 296-443 Carpenter Fred W. 419 Castles W. W. 435 Carroll Jas. T. 577 Caborn M. 595 Cawcroft Ernest 660 Cevasco L. A. 667 Carter W. S. 716-726-736-856-1015 Cass Chas. R. 775 [Ca?]ter W. S. 865] Chandler Wm. E. 987 CAClarke W. F. 103 Cohen Simon 109-220-418 Collins Peter W. 182-452 Cohen Henry 263 Cowles Jas. L. 607 Cross S. C. 708-774 Connolly John B. 743-999 Commons John N. 749 Arnnesen J. F. 760 Conway H. J. 772 Clark M. L. 806 Cutman Seigfried 820 Curran Richard H. 879 Crozier Wm. 946 CLDiaz Daniel 3 Dunn Thos. H. 20 Davis Morgan 67 Dole E. P. 112 Doukel L. H. 123 Duncan Jas. 128-180-253-275-447-550-917 Duffy Frank 163-176-417-435-900 Durett Frank 164 Dougherty Jas. W. 187 Douglas R. L. 202 Dawson M. M. 536-665-892-906 Deneen M. M. 100 Delahay Wm. 633 Dyche John Alex 645-939 D. D'Alesandro 657 Dillingham Wm. P. 681 Dundas Wm. 729 Dickinson Jacob M. Hon. 844 Dobson Wm. 854 Dackendorf P. J. 953Executive Council 9-62-34-291-314-471-545-585 807-859-865-941-942-985-1016 Eldridge E. E. 59-543-723-932 Eisner Nathan 78 Eaton Chas. 198-581 Easley Ralph M. 208-232-469-625-639-695-751-761 799- Emery W. J. 408 Eliot Chas. W 617-1001 Evans Jno. N. 700- Ember R. Co. 765 Eaton Horace M. 803-972 Editors of Life 861Fagerstrom E. M. 30 Fairgrievs Ales. 41 Forrester Harry 99 Fischer Jacob. 154 Fannin Lewis. 156 Fisher R. E. 183 Fauntleroy C. H. 218-609 French M. 250 Fahy John 254 Furuseth Andrew 256 Fairley W. R. 261 Festy Octave 312 Foster Frank K. 457 Frey John P. 567 Fehlinger Hans 570 Flynn J. J. 583-794 Fitzpatrick J. J. 612 Fitzpatrick Frank 676 Fravel F. R. 701 Ferguson Peter 705 Ferris William 824 Finney H. J. 950 Fair S. F. 959Gillespie Wm. 25 Graham A. A. 50 Gallant Wm. 95 Glackin Edward J. 161 Gallagher Andrew J. 105-231-231-292-481 Golden Alex. 125 Gilthorpe Wm. J.186-733 Gompers Samuel 229-639-642-692-713-727-728-750 Gibson G. W. 279 Golden John 409-649-691-849-925 Gardner L. A. 411-678 Greenawalt E. C. 421-563-608-940 Gilotti Angelo 440 Gompers Louis 565 Goldsmith Michael 616-997 Graydon Samuel 623-914 Grace Lawrence A. 666 [Golden John] [691] Gorton J. N. 693 Guard R. Lee 735 Gregory S. S. 739-910 Gusdorff & Joseph 766 Griggs Sam 770 Gass Gustav A. 915 Gill A. H. 974Harrison H. 46 Heer A. G. 82 Hammond H. A.108 Hawes Oscar B. 118 Hays J. W. 155-259-432 Hayes D. A. 209-864 Harris Arthur W. 214 Hatch Jas. H. 277-280 Hannah Edw. I 289 Hays Max S. 390 Hawley F. T. 398-406-482-547 Hamilton M. Grant 414 Hart Lee M. 454 Harris Daniel 525 Hahn B. W. E. 601 Harding John C. 655 Henderson G. M. 694-816-896 Hawley F. T. 720 Haas Gus 793 Heflin J. J. 800 Henry John S. 825 Harvey Geo. 968 Hayes D. A. 971Huber Wm. D. 26-131-331-1006 Holm N. F. 28 Hill C. E. 29 Hunt Harry E. 37 Howell H. L. 47-741-907-930 Hoodless J. 73 Hornaday A. D. 204 Hill A. D. 216-591- Hogan Stephen C. 273 Holland C. J. 698 Howard Winifred 810 Hirsch Ed. 815-897 Hitchcock Frank H. Hon. 842 Homan Henry S. 955Ironsides Alex 246-786 Iglesias Santiago 319 Jaflinkowski Ludwig 193 James Clifford A. 244 Jones E. Clarence 675-1080 Joyce Thos. 744 Jentoft 893[Kirby Wm. J. 27] Kaufmann E. 43 Kinsilla J. T. 68-161 Kidd Thos. I. 80 Karns J. M. 175 Kramer Wm. F. 185 Kirkpatrick M. E. 252 Kramer Wm. F. 283 Kindred B. F. 304 Kline Jos. W. 308-936 Kirby J. L. 27-309 Kellogg H. M. 482 Kern Julius 637 Kleiber Victor 685-852 Knox P. C. 817 Kiefer Daniel 1004 Kreyling David 902 Kandlhofer Karl 927Lennon John B. 34-114-120-149-456-674-813-814-886 Legien C. 74-317-426-428-474-537 Love John M. 153 Lewis T. L. 157-205 Leonard Chas.169 Launer Wm. 181 Letroade A. 227 Lopez Eugenio Sanchez 233 Lynch Jas. M. 251-260-661-885 Lee Chas. H. 549 Lovejoy Owen R. 100 Low Seth 568 Leonard Jas. 618 Loeber Florence 654 Lee W. G. 714--734-857 Lambert W. A. 758 Lubin David 777 Lincoln Hotel 809 Laidler Harvey W. 818 Lane W. M. 822 Landers Sam 833 Larger B. A. 860 Lozonde Frederick 876 Lovejoy Oscar R. 887 La Salle Extension University 931 Lawyer Chas. E. 981Mellen Jas. H. 52 Macfarland Chas. S. 110 Maxwell Chas. M. 148-470 Mahon W. D. 212 Main Geo. 219 Maloney Robt. S. 224 MacArthur Walter 262 Manning John J. 552-605 Maomasters B. F. 584 Menton T. R. 596 Meyers M. J. 791 Mendell A. C. 823 Meyer Geo. V. L. Hon. 841-969 MacVeagh Franklin Hon. 845 Maxwell W. J. 855 Mackay M. 875Myrvold Peter 92 Morrison Frank 119-136-158-329-663-734-754-830 Mitchell John 129-138-159-206-307-320-327-554-662-877-882 Millard C. A. 167 Miller Owen 179 Morgan H. P. 192 Morrison John 213-412-561 Miller Hugo 258 Morton Lew 321 Modern View 405 Morris J. F. 420 Montgomery N. J. 450 Morris Max (Mrs.) 461 [Morton Geo. L. 606] Miller Chas. H. 611 Moffat E. A. 683 Muller Geo. 738 Mutch Jas. 783 Miller Harriet M. 916 Mitchell J. A. 957 Murdoch K. A. 967McCord C. E. 17 McCoy Alice 85 McIlvaine F. W. 122-903-919 McMullen Patrick 152 McLeod B. 194 McArdle P. J. 237-628-912-983 McHugh Jas F. 269 McCarthy P. F. 271 McNulty F. J. 415-531-1013 McLaughlin J. J. 423-635 McKee Robert 436 McCraith August 459 McEachern Ed. 622 McNamee John F. 632 McIlvaine F. W. 644 McHughes P. J. 847 McNeill C. Leonard 956 McDonald John A. 1004Nusbaum Lester 69 Neill Chas. P. 201-299-527-764-909 Nichols T. D. 210 Nagel Chas. 300-528-858 Nester Agnes 326 Norton Geo. L. 606 O'Connell Jas. 33-130-188-207-310-529-664-829 O'Sullivan M. 61 O'Daniel Chas. W. 171 O'Brien J. 223 O'Connor J. J. 332 O'Connor T. V. 333 O'Brien Michael 891 N OParker Alton B. 32-65-89-481-656 Phillip A. M. 54 Piggott W. M. 58 Perkins G. W. 66-98-115 Parker G. F. 72 Peters John P. 90 Peterson Jas. B. 111-634 Poetzsch Hugo 121 Prince J. D. 126-539-976 Preston Geo. 178 Pfeiffer Geo. E. 184 Privett J. C. 225 Perham H. B. 287-627-731-1002 Panoramic Camera Co. of Canada 318 Pegg Samuel J. 393 Packer Launcelot 395 Pinchot Clifford 396-995 Panken Jacob 401 Parker W. B. 593 Pitts Clarence Elwyn 677 Patterson H. 737 Pollard I. W. 805 Powell John B. 937 Quick L. W. 150-286 Quinn F. C. 404Reid Stuart 10-127 Rossler John E. 16 Richards Levi H. 22 Roach John 23-834 Robins Raymond 24 Ryan F. H. 31 Ralston, Siddons & Richardson 65-77-77 Richardson E. L. 140 Reichers Chas. 144 Robinson Herman 168-394-544-610-614-668-767 Roszelle E. M. 226-1005 Roe H. E. 245 Rosenberg Abraham 322-559 Reid J. J. 438-530-688-1007 Russ Earl E. 463 Reilly Jos. P. 472 Roach Jas. E. 532 Ross Winfield 597 Ransdell Jos. R. 679 Ross W. A. 725 Rumsey Thos. 742 Ripert Anthony 768 Roper R. H. 769 Rossi Egisto 787 Rectenwold John P. 790-964 Reece Thomas 802 Root Elihu 923Shearod B. F. 6 Shoop Max P. 56 Schwellenbach Lewis 84-573 Sherman Jas. S. 297-441 Schwartz Ulysses 402 Serra Joaquin Rodriguez 571 Sanford C. M. 589 Sheraton Chas. H. 621 Shoonover R. E. 653-954 Shibley Geo. H. 673 Shvittan Geo. 724 Schurman J. G. Dr. 846Smith O. P. 1 Stuebner G. L. 18-87 Stedry Jos. E. 53 Smith Wm. J. 146-629 Skemp J. C. 177-190 Stevens Samuel R. 191 Stevenson R. J. 222 Spencer Wm. J. 228-281-306-465-792 Sladovich George 242 Snyder John A. 248 Snyder E. Jackson 323 Stone M. E. Jr. 407 Skelly S. W. 410 Sullivan Jere L. 535-921 Smith A. W. 580 Sulzer Wm. 630 Spears F. H. 652 Strauss Theo. W. 683-988 Stein Geo. 689-850 Smith H. A. 697 Swanson Lew. 706 Stadler J. 707 Stone Warren S. 711 Strayer Paul Moore 740-934 Smart W. B. 779 Smith Florence S. 795 Stubbs E. J. 831 Soman Louis A. 873Szabo Edwin 898 Sheraton Chas. H. 922 Smith H. A. 989 Sinclair H. A. 992 Smith August 1000 Taylor J.D. 57 Tuley J. L. 71 Tolman W. H. 76-424-748-992 Taft Wm. H. 100-102-147-295-445-478-1008 Thompson Chas. C. 213 Taley J. L. 217 Tobin John F. 449 Tawney Jas. A. 468 Tannenbaum Ferdinand 555 Tyler H. D. 569 Thompson G. H. 592 Turckheim I. R. 620-780 Thomas Harry D. 623-624-998 Tole Jas. 651 Townsend A. Liston 835 Townsend Chas. E. Hon. 851 Tobin Daniel J. 853Van Kluck Mary 93 Vogt Paul L. 197 Valentine Jos. 430 (See Book, # 252 Ms. pp. 337) - 548 - 646 - 647 Villard Ernest 746 Vishnesky John 771Wackleman Ward N. 7 Webb De Witt 35 Wangemann A. 55 Weber G. A. 96-172 Walk Jas. W. 399 Weisel Chas. 747 White Henry 753 Wessel H.B. 862 Whelan John 881 Weed T. L. 949 West L. M. 963 Weil Berthold 965-994Williams Arthur A. Shoe Co. 19-696- Williams Wm. D. 39 Williams P. P. 195 Wilson Jas. 199-429 Wilson W. B. 257 Wilson J. Havelock 324 (Book #252 See Ms. pp. 337) Wirth Irwin J. 578 Wyatt Cal 579 Wright Edwin R. 658 Williams J. C. 690- Wilbur C. L. 710-838 Wilson James Hon. 839 Wickersham Geo. W. Hon. 843 Winslow Irving 938Younger Maud 4 Young Wm. 371 Yeabower C. C. 558 Young Wm. Sr. 659 Zimmer Otto H. 40 Zeitz Frank 302Prince Goerge Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canda XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 9, 1909. Mr. O. P. Smith, Delegate Indiana State Federation of Labor, Massey Hall, Toronto, Canada. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge reciept of your favor of November 4th, in which you enclsoe clipping from the editorial section of the Indianapolis News, dealing with the recent decision of the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia in the contempt cases growing out of the Buck's Stove and Range Company Injunction Suit. He thanks you for your courtesy. Verty truly yours, Secretary to President President2 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 9, 1909. Mr. G. P. Bradford, Secretary Local Union #336, Cigarmakers' Intl. Union of America, Box 262, Ybor City Station, Florida Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of November 1st, I beg to say that I have arranged with President Perkins to visit Tampa the latter part of this month, and nothing unforseen occuring, I shall undoubtedly fulfill my promise. He will give you full information in regard thereto. With best wishes for success and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.3 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 9, 1909 Mr Daniel Diaz, President Joint Advisory Board, Local #336, C. M. I. U., c/o Box 262 Ybor City Station, Tampa, Florida Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of November 1st, I beg to say that I have arranged with President Perkins to visit Tampa the latter part of this month, and nothing unforseen occuring, I shall undoubtedly fulfill my promise. He will give you full infromation in regard thereto. With best wishes for success and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 9, 1909 Miss Maud Younger, 3474 18th Street, San Francisco, California. My dear Miss Younger: Your favor of OCtober 31st has been handed to me by our friend, Mr. Kelly. I was indeed pleased to hear from you again. I have not by any means forgotten you, nor lost sight of the interesting letters which you have written me from time to time, but much as I have desired to send a word to you, it seems that it has been impossible for me to do so. Even now I can write but briefly, for I am here in this city attending the 29th Annual Convention of the Federation, and as you can very readily imagine, my time is fully engrossed with the immediate work of the Convention. However, I could not resist taking the time to send you a few lines of greeting and to say how glad I am to hear from you. As you doubtless noticed through the press, I was in Europe for four months this summer, and only returned to this country three or four weeks ago. Then again, as you have of course noticed through the press, the Court Proceedings in the Buck's Stove and Range Company Injunction Case and the resultant contempt proceedings have been occupying much of my time. Messrs.5 Miss Maud Younger--2 Mitchell, Morrison and I are now resting under a sentence of imprisonment for [crossed-out] twelve [/crossed-out] nine [crossed-out] nine [/crossed-out] six and [crossed-out] six [/crossed-out] twelve months respectively for contempt of court. What will be the outcome I am unable to foretell. You may, perhaps, be interested in the summary of this case, which I have made in my annual report to this Convention. I am, therefore, sending you a copy of my report under seperate cover and commend it to your consideration. I note your suggestion as to my again visiting California. I hope to be able to do so, though at present I cannot say anything definite upon the subject. Let me hear from you again when you feel disposed to write, and believe me to be, sincerely and cordially yours, President American Federation of Labor.6 M November 9, 1909. Mr. B. F. Shearod, Organizer 610 South Armstrong Ave., Denison, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant is received, in which you state you are to hod a meeting of the farmers on November 5, and you desire some information relative to getting a charter for a farmers' organization. In reply I beg to say that the President of the Farmers' Educational and Co-operative Union of America, in Charles S. Barrett, Union City, Georgia. I am by this mail writing to Mr. Barrett, requesting him to furnish you with all necessary information and literature to effect such an organization, and you will no doubt hear from him in regard thereto. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.M November 9, 1909. Mr. Ward N. Wackleman, Crawfordsville, Ind. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 7th instant I beg to say that I am sending you under separate cover copy of the report which I made to the Denver Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held last November. Your attention is called particularly to that section of my report dealing with the political campaign. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor8 M November 9, 1909. Mr. Charles S. Barrett, President, Farmers' Educational and Co-operative Union of America, Union City, Georgia. Dear Sir and Brother: A letter has been received at this office from Organizer B. F. Shearod, of Denison, Texas, in which he states that he is at present in Zack, Texas, and expects to hold a meeting of the farmers on November 5th, and desires infromative relative to charter, etc. I have advised Mr. Shearod that I was taking the matter up with you, and would request that you furnish him with all necessary information to effect such an organization. Thanking you in advance for your complaince with the above, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.9 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR ORGD. NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT 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, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, James O'Connell, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington D. C. Fourth Vice-President, D. A. Hayes, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, WM. D. Huber Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Seventh Vice-President, John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. Perham, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS, 'AFEL.' 801-809 G St. N. W. [Washington D. C.] Nov. 10, 1909 Toronto, Canada. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: Vice-President Huber has shown me letters and telegrams in which he is urged to prevail upon me to telegraph Mr. Arthur A. Hay, our organizer at Los Angeles, to come to Toronto and defend his course as against the attacks made upon him. Mr. James Kirby, President of the Building Trades Department, has also called upon me with that purpose in view. I do not feel warranted under the circumstances in taking upon myself the authority of telegraphing Mr. Hay and incurring the expense for the purpose named. I am submitting this matter to you, however, and ask you to vote upon the following: Shall President Gompers telegraph Organizer Hay at Los Angeles to come to Toronto at once for the purpose of defending his course? Please return your vote to me at once so that I can be governed by the decision of the Executive Council. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.Nov. 10, 1909 Stuart Reid, Manhattan Hotel, Washington, D. C. I regard to report committee industrial education very highly and as being valuable. Request authorization to sign your name as to complete full membership. SAMUEL GOMPERS.11 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada LF xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Nov. 10, 1909 Mr. J. E. Black, Secretary Federal Labor Union #12692, Woodland, Maine. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of November 3rd. in regard to the matter of agreement between your organization and the St. Croix Paper Company and the agreement between the Brotherhood of Papermakers and that company. I beg to say that President Carey has just handed me draft of agreement between his Brotherhood and the Company which is satisfactory and which he anticipates will be signed about the 20th instant. I enclose a copy of that agreement herein. President Carey, as I sated above, contemplates signing this agreement on behalf of his Brotherhood on November 20th. It will be well, therefore, that the agreement between your organization and the St. Croix Paper Company should be prepared and submitted at as early a date as possible, for, as you will note, the agreement between the Paper Makers and the Company does not include your organization, thought it makes provision for all of the other employes of the Company other than members of the Brotherhood to become members of your Federal Labor Union.12 Mr. J. E. Black--2 As you will note from the above date line I am dictating this letter while attending the Annual Convention of the Federation and therefore have not before me the file of correspondence on this case, but am dictating from my memory as to the statistics of the case. I would like you to let me hear from you in regard to this matter at your earliest convenience, addressing me as above. Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor13 Copy. ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT:- made this day of November, 1909 between the St. Croix Paper Company for their mill at Woodland, Maine, by and through Mr. I. B. Hosford, President of the said Company, and the International Brotherhood of Paper Makers, by and through Mr. J. T. Carey, President of the above named organization, for a period extending from this day until changed as below specified. I. The St. Croix Paper Company agrees that it will not Knowingly employ any paper makers who are not members of the International Brotherhood of Paper Makers. II. It is mutually agreed by the International Brotherhood of paper Makers and the St. Croix Paper Company that all machinists, carpenters, millwrights, electricians, steam engineers, firemen, pipers and their helps, and machinists helpers, painters, tinsmiths, blacksmiths, and their helpers, and other operatives in the employment of the St. Croix Paper Company, may become members in good standing in Federal Union #12632. Provided, however, that in case any controversy arises between the two Unions respecting the Union to which any employee shall be admitted, that controversy shall be determined by the Unions without involving the St. Croix Paper Company therein: and providing further that the St. Croix Paper Company in such case may continue to employ such employee until such determination of the controversy of the aforesaid Unions. III. The rate of wages in force on this date shall remain unchanged during the life of this agreement. IV. The running time of this Paper Mill shall be from eight O'clock on Monday morning until eight O'clock on Sunday Morning, a period of six full days of 24 hours each: provided, however, that when by reason of the flow of the river the water power condition requires a different running time, the St. Croix Paper Company may14 -2- vary the running time accordingly, not, however, exceeding in any week six full days of 24 hours each. V. Eight hours shall constitute a full day's work for all our workers and nine hours shall constitute a day's work for all day workers. VI. This agreement to cover both Paper Makers and Pulp, Sulphite and Paper Mill Workers and if at any time the Pulp, Sulphite, and Paper Mill Workers wish to transfer to the International Brotherhood of Pulp, Sulphite and Paper-Mill Workers organization, they can do so, providing the local organization at Woodland, Maine desires this transfer and same is approved by the International Brotherhood of Paper Makers and St. Croix Paper Co. VII. Either party desiring any changes to this agreement or the termination of same, shall give to the other party thirty days notice in writing of such changes or termination of this agreement. VIII. The St. Croix Paper Company may, if in their opinion it becomes necessary, run their paper machine between eight o'clock Sunday morning and eight o'clock Monday morning, but no employee shall be compelled to work between said hours nor be discriminaed against or lose his position for refusal to work between such hours. The purpose of this article is to enable the St. Croix Paper Company and their employees to meet exceptional conditions by voluntary and mutual agreements without the inconvenience or delay which would be incidental to obtaining the approval of the International Brotherhood of Paper Makers. IX. In case of any grievance arising it shall be settled between a committee of this organization, party to this agreement, and the Superintendent or Manager of the Mill, and in their failure15 -3- to agree upon a settlement, such grievance shall be referred to the President of the said St. Croix Paper Company and of the International Brotherhood of Paper Makers for adjustment. In their failure to agree upon any disputed point, said Presidents shall choose the third party whose decision shall be final and binding to both parties to this agreement. ST. CROIX PAPER COMPANY By____________________President INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF PAPER MAKERS BY_____________________________President.16 LF Toronto, Ontario, Canada, November 10, 1909 Mr. John E. Rossler, Sec. Hair Spinners Union #12 353 414 Forest St. West, Baltimore, Md. Check for $36.00 in payment of lockout benefits for the members of Local #12353 By who Sent F.L. Faber How Nov.10.190917 M November 10, 1909. Mr. C. E. McCord, Gulfport, Miss. Dear Sir: Your card of the 4th instant has been received, in which you state you think you could handle the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST profitably, and I enclose to you herein a circular, which gives the commission allowed to agents upon all subscriptions sent in by them. Trusting that we may hear from you further in regard to this, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.18 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada November 11,1909 Mr. G. L. Stuebner, 12th St. & Division Ave., Long island City, New York. Dear Sir: Kindly let us have coy at your earliest convenience for your advertisement in the December issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, as per contract we hold from you. Thanking you in advance for your prompt attention to the above, and asking you to address your reply to our Washington office, I am, Very truly yours, Ed'r. American Federationist President American Federation of Labor P. S. We have cut but no copy.[*19*] Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 11, 1909 Arthur A. Williams Shoe Company, Holliston, Massachusetts. Gentlemen: In continuation of my letter to you of September 16th, in regard to your contract for 1/4 page advertisement, one year, in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, I am writing to request that you kindly send us copy for the December issue. Thanking you in advance for your prompt attention to the above, and asking you to address your reply to our Washington office, I remain, Very truly yours, Ed'r American Federationist President American Federation of Labor.20 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada LF xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx November 11, 1909. Mr. Thomas H. Dunn, 424 Queen St. W., Toronto, Ont. Canada. Dear Sir: In continuation of my letter to you of October 26th, I beg to request that you let us have copy immediately of your 1/4 page advertisement in the December issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, in conformity with contract we hold from you. Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and reply, addressing your reply to our Washington office, and thanking you for your patronage, I am, Very truly yours, Editor American Federationist President American Federation of Labor. P. S. We have cut but no copy.21 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 11,1909 Auburn Silk Mill, Auburn, New York. Gentlemen: Kindly let us have copy at your earliest convenience for your advertisement in the December issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, as per contract we hold from you. Thanking you in advance for your prompt attention to the above, and asking you to address your reply to our Washington office, I am, Very truly yours, Ed'r. American Federationist President American Federation of Labor. 22 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 11,1909 Mr. Levi H. Richards, Gatun Hospital, Canal Zone, Panama. Dear Sir: Your favor of October 26th is received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that your application for membership in the organized labor movement should be made to the officers of the union of the trade at which you are employed. I am writing to our Washington office, directing that a list of affiliated national and international unions, giving the names of their respective secretaries be sent to you so that you can correspond direct with the secretary of the international union of the trade at which you are employed. If there is any further assistance which I can render, please advise me. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor. 23 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 11,1909. Mr. John Roach, Secretary Heavy Leather Workers' Union #106 Essex Hall, Cor. Bank and Rutgers Sts., Newark, N.J. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 6th, in which you enclose manuscript for publication in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. As his time is wholly taken up with the immediate work of the Annual Convention of the Federation now in session in this city, he is, therefore, unable at present to read your manuscript, but he thanks you for submitting it to him. It will be held for future reference and if found available, he will be glad to publish it in the magazine. He also directs me to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia. He will be glad to hear from you further whenever convenient. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.24 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 11,1909 Mrs. Raymond Robins, Queen's Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada. My dear Mrs. Robins: I do not know whether Mr. Gompers has had the opportunity of speaking to you in regard to your request for him to address the meeting at Cooper Union, when he goes to New York the 22nd and 23rd. I spoke to him about it and he said that on the evening of the 22nd he can make a brief talk to the girls at Cooper Union. I am glad that he has been able to arrange it. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.25 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 11,1909 Mr. Wm. Gillespie, 408 East Green St., Urbana, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of November 6th, I beg to say that I shall be glad to have you continue to hold your commission as volunteer organizer for Urbana and vicinity if that is the desire of the Urbana Central Body. Hoping to hear from you further whenever convenient, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 26 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR ORGD. NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT 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, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, James O'Connell, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, D. A. Hayes, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, Wm. D. Huber, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio Seventh Vice-President, John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. Perham, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. Long Distance Telephone, Main 3871-2 Cable Address, 'AFEL.' 801-809 G. ST. N. W. [Washington D.C.] Nov. 12, 1909 Toronto, Canada. Mr. W. D. Huber, President/ United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Toronto, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the matter of organizer Arthur A. Hay, of Los Angeles, and the suggestion that he should be directed to come on to Toronto for the purpose of defending his course, I bet to say [tha] I placed the matter before the Executive Council of the A. F. of L., as I hesitated to assume the responsibility of directing him to come in view of the expense involved by such a long trip. The consensus of opinion of the E. C. is that it would be inadvisable to have Mr. Hay come on. Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.27 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR ORGD. NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT 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, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, James O'Connell, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, D. A. Hayes, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, Wm. D. Huber, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio Seventh Vice-President, John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. Perham, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. Long Distance Telephone, Main 3871-2 Cable Address, 'AFEL.' 801-809 G. ST. N. W. [Washington, D.C.,] Nov. 12, 1909 Toronto, Canada. [*Jas. L.*] Mr. Wm. J. Kirby, President, Building Trades Department A. F. of L., Toronto, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the matter of Organizer Hay of Los Angeles and the suggestion that he should be directed to come on to Toronto to defend his course, I beg to say that I placed the matter before the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. as I hesitated to assume the responsibility of directing him to come in view of the expense involved by such a long trip. The consensus of opinion of the E. C. is that it would be inadvisable to have Mr. Hay come on. Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor28 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12, 1909 Mr. N. F. Holm, The Swedish Strike Relief Committee, 527 No. Centre Ave., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date has been duly received, in which you refer to letter to me under date of October 13th, in which you say you send a typewritten copy of a circular with signatures of different union men attached. I have the file of correspondence bearing upon the subject of the Swedish Strike Relief Committee, in which is included your letter of October 13th. Attached to your letter of October 13th is a typewritten circular from the national headquarters of the Socialist Party, dated September 16th, addressed to the National Executive Committee and signed on the typewriter by J. Mahlon Barnes, National Secretary. I do not find any record of any other circular than this. Should you desire this returned to you, I shall be glad to do so. Fraternally yours, Secretary American Federation of Labor.29 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. Canada XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12, 1909 Mr. C. E. Hill, Member Joint Executive Board Commercial Telegraphers Union of America, 362 Brock Ave., Toronto, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of November 9th I beg to say that I shall undoubtedly do everything I can to carry out your suggestion and shall take action in the matter. Your suggestion in regard to your name not being mentioned in connection with this matter will be strictly regarded. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.[*30*] Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12, 1909 Mr. E. M. Fagerstrom, Federal Labor Union #12835, 108 2nd St., Miami, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 4th is received and contents noted. Not being familiar with the local condition in Miami and the circumstances connected with the case to which you make reference, I feel considerable hesitancy in giving the advice you request. Therefore, let me suggest that you confer with our organizer in Miami, Mr. G. W. Coates, Box 506. He will doubtless be able to advise and counsel with you as to the best course to pursue in the premises. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. [*31*] Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12, 1909 Mr. F. H. Ryan, Stratford Typographical Union #139 20 Jones St., Stratford, Ontario, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that if the Central Labor Union of Stratford will give me a list of the locals not affiliated with that body I shall take the matter up with the secretaries of their respective national and international unions to the end that every effort may be made to have them comply with the provisions of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. governing such matters. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. [*32*] Washington, D. C., Nov. 26, 1909. Hon. Alton B. Parker, #3 So. William St., New York City. Am strongly of the opinion you should be present in Court when application for certiorari is made Monday morning. In addition conference with the President may be advisable regarding legislative matters. In the meantime a committee of the Executive Council will confer with the President tomorrow, Saturday. Please wire answer. Samuel Gompers. Charge A. F. of L. 33 X. Nov. 26, 1909 Mr. James O'Connell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to call your attention to the fact that having written to the President of the United States regarding his meeting a committee consisting of the resident members of the Executive Council, he has advised me that he will meet us at the White House, at twelve o'clock tomorrow, Saturday, November twenty-seventh. I [???typed info unreadable???] this office at 11:30 tomorrow morning for the purpose of proceeding to the White House. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.Washington, D. C., Nov. 26, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Bloomington, Ill. Please transmit check to Secretary Morrison immediately for Four Thousand Dollars. Accept this as authority for same. Letter follows. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[*35*] Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12, 1909 Mr. De Witt Webb, 85 King Street, St. Augustine, Fla. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 4th instant and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia. He would write you personally but for the fact that his entire time is engrossed with the work of the annual Convention of the Federation now in session in this city. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers. 36 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12, 1909 Mr. Nicholas Chiajery, Metal Polishers' Local Union #113 111 Pansy St., Rochester, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is received and contents noted. In regard to your request that I should visit Rochester I beg to say that at present I am unable to give you any definite answer, for I already have such a number of engagements ahead. You might write me again after the adjournment of our Convention, say about the first of December, when I may be able to write you more definitely. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 37 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Nov. 12,1909 Mr. Harry E. Hunt, Counsellor At Law, 1421 Ford Bldg., Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 7th addressed to President Gompers has been forward to him to this city where he is at present attending the 29th Annual Convention of the A. F. of L. When your previous letter of last august was received President Gompers was travelling in Europe. He only returned to this country about three or four weeks ago and has not had any opportunity of looking over the matter which you submitted to him and the receipt of which was acknowledged during his absence. He will not have the opportunity for some weeks yet, as his time at present is wholly engrossed with the immediate work of the Convention. After the adjournment of the Convention he has a number of engagements which will necessitate his travelling from city to city for quite some time. The matter will be held, however, and will be brought to his attention at the first opportunity. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers. 38 Washington, D.C., Toronto, Ont. Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12, 1909 Mr. Thos. Atkinson, Secretary Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners Room 76 Bible House, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th instant and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia. He would write to you personally, but for the fact that his entire time is engrossed with the work of the annual Convention of the Federation now in session in this city. He would be pleased to hear from you again whenever convenient. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers. 39 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12,1909 Mr. William D. Williams, Railroad Commission of Texas, Austin, Texas. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 3rd instant and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia. He would write to you personally, but for the fact that his entire time is engrossed with the work of the annual Convention of the Federation now in session in this city. Under separate cover I am sending you copy of President Gompers' report to this Convention, in which he reviews the entir e case. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.40 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 12, 1909 Mr. Otto H. Zimmer, Secretary, Twin City Trades and Labor Council, P.O. Box #665 Berlin, Ontario, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: Secretary Morrison has handed me your letter of November 8th in regard to my visiting Berlin on Sunday, November 14 or 21st, together with Vice-president Mitchell, for the purpose of addressing a public meeting. In reply I beg to say that before coming to Toronto and since my arrival here I have received a number of similar invitations, but the work of the Convention is so engrossing that I have found it impossible to accept any invitations which will necessitate my going out of the city. I regret my inability to comply with your request at this time. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [*No.*] President American Federation of Labor.41 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Nov. 12,1909 Mr. Ales. Fairgrievs, Roundup, Montana. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 2nd addressed to President Gompers and which has been forwarded to him here where he is at present attending the 29th Annual Convention of the Federation. As his time is wholly taken up with the immediate work of the Convention he is unable at present to give any attention to his correspondence. You will therefore kindly accept this acknowledgment of the receipt of your letter until such time as he can give the matter his personal attention. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.42 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 13,1909 Cady Paper Company, Chicago, Ill. Gentlemen: On September 11th, as you recall, we wrote you as follows: "We hold contract from you for 1/2 page advertisement, yearly, in the American Federationist. We failed to send us copy in time for the advertisement to commence with the September issue. Kindly let us have copy not later than the 15th of this month, so that we may commence the publication of your adv. in the October number." I would appreciate it very much if you would immediately send us copy of your advertisement so that it may appear in the December issue of the American Federationist. We wrote you for copy also for the November issue, but you failed to send it. Kindly give this matter your prompt attention, and oblige, Very truly yours, Ed'r. American Federationist President American Federation of Labor.43 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR ORGD. NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT 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, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, James O'Connell, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, D. A. Hayes, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, Wm. D. Huber, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio Seventh Vice-President, John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. Perham, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. Long Distance Telephone, Main 3871-2 Cable Address, 'AFEL.' 801-809 G. ST. N. W. [Washington, D. C.,] November 13, 1909 Price George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. Mr. E. Kaufmann, 41, 43 University Place, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: It has been suggested that I write a letter regarding the appointment of Mr. Herman Robinson to some important executive position in the municipal government of New York. I feel a great reluctance in doing this; for, conscious of Mr. Robinson's ability and faithfulness to serve the cause of labor efficiently, I would prefer that his services in this field might be uninterrupted. However, I am confident that if Honorable William J. Ganor, Mayor elect of New York, were inclined to appoint a representative labor man to an important executive position in the municipal government of New York, he would find in Mr. Robinson a conscientious, capable and faithful public servant. Having for a long period of years known Judge Gaynor's splendid record and his attitude upon questions effecting the people and their rights, I feel confident that he would want to surround himself with officers of his appointment who have a conscientious regard for duty to the people and a sympathetic attitude to the working people. In connection with this matter I can say to you that in any event I should not favor the appointment of Mr. Robinson for the mere44 sake of a position under the government, but, if the position is of such a character that his duties would also have an influence toward the protection of the rights and the betterment of the conditions of the workers, it would, I know, be in line with Mr. Robinson's years of work in the past and follow his own inclinations in the future. Personally I think that Mr. Robinson's co-operation either in the cause of labor or in public office of great value. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 45 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 13, 1909. Mr. Sylvester A. Baker, Bottle Cap, Cork and Stopper Workers Union #10875, 1 Wilson St., Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 6th, addressed to President Gompers, which has been forwarded to me from our Washington office. Both he and Secretary Morrison, as you can very readily understand, are wholly engrossed with the work of the Annual Convention of the Federation now in session in this city. As we have not with us our files or letter press copy books, I am unable now to give you any definite information as to what has been done in the matter of organizing the Hair Spinners in the several cities to which you refer. I would suggest that you write Secretary Morrison in regard to this after the adjournment of the Convention, say about December first. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.46 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 13, 1909 Mr. H. Harrison, Secretary, Hod Carriers' and Building Laborers' Local Union #51, 8 Prince St., Atchison, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 7th is received and contents noted. I do not know that I clearly understand just what you have in mind when you say: "We have here an international Hod Carriers and Building Laborers' Union, and a charter to that affect and we find that it does not affiliate with all others and why." Please write me further and more fully upon this subject. Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 47 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada, LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 13, 1909 Mr. H. L. Howell, Secretary, The Central Trades and Labor Assembly, P.O. Box 517, Tampa, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 4th instant, I beg to advise you that nothing unforeseen occurring, I expect to visit Tampa the latter part of this month. President G. W. Perkins can advise you further in regard to this matter. Please pardon the brevity of this letter, but my time is almost entirely taken up with the engrossing work of the Convention of the Federation now in session in this city. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 48 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 13, 1909. Mr. Albert Baumeister, Secretary, Intl. Union of Hotel, Restaurant and Bar-Workers, S. O. 16, Engelufer 15, Berlin, Germany. My dear Mr. Baumeister: Your favor of October 30th has just been received and I was indeed glad to have a word from you. I also have the letter you enclose, which you request I should deliver to the publisher of one of the daily papers of this city, so that he may send his paper to you during the session of our Convention. I am doing better than that, for I have had four or five of the daily papers which give the best reports of our Convention, clipped and am sending them to you under separate cover. I am also sending you copies of the officers reports, including my own and there will be sent you each day copy of the daily proceedings. I think you will find the matter I am sending particularly interesting. The Decision of the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia confirmed the decision of the lower Court, coming as it did just a few days prior to the opening of our Convention has, as you can well imagine caused wide spread comment and discussion. My report contains a review of the entire case. What will be the final outcome, I am, of course, at this time unable to say. We will use every lawful means to maintain our rights. 49 Mr. Albert Baumeister--2 I am in the midst of the work of the Convention and, therefore, cannot write you at any great length, much as I would like to do so. I trust, however, that you will write me again and as often as convenient, for I shall always be glad to hear from you and to write you whenever opportunity permits. Thanking you for your personal expressions in regard to myself, and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. P.S. Enclosed find two pages from the Fifth Day's Proceedings of our Convention, which gives the statement I made to the Convention as to the present status of the injunction case and contempt proceedings. In looking over the XXXXXXXXXXXXXX first day's proceedings containing my report to the Convention, you will note the heading of those sections bearing upon this subject. S. G. 50 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. A. A. Graham, 517 Kansas Avenue, Topeka, Kansas. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of recent date, in which you enclose manuscript for publication in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST entitled "National Absorption and Differentiation, A Law of Nature". President Gompers is attending the Convention of the American Federation of Labor now in session in this city, and is therefore unable to give any attention to his correspondence at present. Your letter and manuscript will be held for his personal attention and should the latter be found available for the columns of the American Federationist, he will be glad to use it. I thank you in his name for your courtesy in sending it to him. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.51 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. Frank Canader, Lowell Labor, Lowell, Mass. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 9th addressed to President Gompers which was forwarded to him here, where he is attending the Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, now in session in this city. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers. 52 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. James H. Mellen, 133 Summer Street, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: I beg acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 11th, addressed to President Gompers who is here attending the Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, now in session in this city. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers. 53 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. Jos. E. Stedry, 185 N 16th St., Portland, Oregon. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 4th, addressed to President Gompers and forwarded to him here, where he is attending the Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor. I thank you for sending the editorial to him taken from the Evening Telegram of Portland of November 4th. I shall certainly bring it to his attention at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.54 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. A. M. Phillip, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 21 Grand Ave., Middletown, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 8th is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that the matter about which you write, that is, the charges preferred against Mr. H. R. Thorp, whom I presume is a delegate to your Central Labor Union, through you fail to state in your letter, is one for action on the part of the Central Labor union. As to the legality of such charges being preferred by two or by three delegates to the central body, that is a point which is entirely immaterial. The questions are: Is it really worth while to prefer charges? Will that course advance the cause of labor? These after all should be the determining questions. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 55 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada, LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. A. Wangemann, Western Representative, International Single Tax Press Writers Corps, General Delivery, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 10th instant, in which you enclose article written by you upon the subject of the recent decision of the District Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings, and for which you will please accept his thanks. Very truly yours, Secrerary to President Gompers. 56 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. Max P. Shoop, President, Amherst College Debating Union, Amhert, Mass Dear Sir: Your favor of the 10th instant has been forwarded to me from our headquarters in Washington to this city where I am at present attending our Annual Convention. In reply I beg to refer you to that section of the report of the Executive Council to this Convention dealing with the subject of Old Age Pensions. I am sending you copy of the printed proceedings of the second day's session, which includes the report of the Executive Council, and would refer you to Pages 97 and 98. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor. 57 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. J. D. Taylor, Organizer, 116 Grand Ave., Oklahoma City, Okla. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 8th, which has been forwarded to him here, where he is attending the Annual Convention of the Federation. He thanks you for the full and comprehensive report you make regarding conditions existing in Oklahoma City and he notes your suggestion as to the need of a special organizer in that section. He is unable to give this matter his attention just now, but you might write him again about the middle of December. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.58 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 15, 1909 Mr. W. M. Piggott, President, Utah State Federation of Labor, 375 24th St., Ogden, Utah. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 7th is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I am decidedly of the opinion that it would be to the best interests of the labor movement in Utah in its legislative work, for it to secure the cooperation of the Western Federation of Miners. Certainly if both bodies are endeavoring to secure practically the same legislation they should work together to that end. Pardon the brevity of this letter, but my time, as you can imagine, is very much engrossed with the work of the Annual Convention of the Federation now in session in this city. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. Co-operation may bring closer affiliation. [*59*] AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR ORG'D NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT 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, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y Third Vice-President, JAMES O'CONNELL, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, D. A. HAYES, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, WM. D. HUBER, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, JOS. F. VALENTINE, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Seventh Vice-President, JOHN R. ALPINE, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. PERHAM, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. 801-809 G ST. N. W. LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE, MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS, 'AFEL' 801-809 G. ST. N. W. [Washington, D. C.,] Nov. 16, 1909 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. Mr. E. E. Eldridge, Secretary, F. L. U. #12362, Galeton, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th inst. has been forwarded to me here where I am attending the annual convention of the Federation. You also enclose strike report blank filled in for November 6th togehter with individual duplicate receipts. I note that in the report blank you have added the names of Arthur E. Sullivan/ James Capo and John Voloski; also Frank Merton who, as I stated to you in my letter of November 1st, was not entitled to benefits until December 10th inasmuch as he had not been a member of F. L. U. #12362, or rather, would not have been a member for one year as provided by the Federation constitution, until December 10th. His name, therefore, can not be allowed under the constitution until December 10th. You failed to return individual receipts for S. Fendro, A. Pagano and J. Amanacher, but instead sent in receipts for James Capo, Walter E. Brown and John Volski, whose names did not appear on the report blanks of October 29th. These names also can not be allowed. I am returning these receipts to you, and in place thereof you will please send me receipts signed by [James Capo/ Walter E. Brown and John Volski][*60*] 2 E. Fendro, A. Pagano and J. Amanacher, the blanks for which are enclosed. The name of Walter E. Brown does not appear on the report blank, although you have sent individual receipt signed by him. Therefore until this matter is straightened out, I can not under the provisions of the constitution direct that further benefits be sent you. We have to make an accounting to the auditing committee of the Federation for every dollar expended from the funds, and our records in this case as in all other matters must be accurately kept. I enclose another balnk report which you will fill in with the names of your members appearing on the report blank of October 29th, unless in the meantime any of these members should have secured work, in which event they would not be entitled to benefits. The names appearing on the report blank for October 29th are as follows: Sam Cadamon S. G. Gillis S. Fendro A. E. Eldridge A. Pagano Guy Button John Garey P. Sinianne W. Fugrer John Behrman Joe Faber F. Carlson E. B. Kinsley John Rigo E. H. Mattune Ray English Joe Dudish Carl Rockwell Isaac Kelly Roy Lockwood R. Love J. Amanacher Frank Menton (not eligible) Walter Safford C. Apgar E. C. Nosch Vincent V. Fredo H. J. Little When returning the blank do not fail to send receipts ofr E. Fendro, A. Pagano and J. Amanacher. If since the payment of the previous week's benefits other members have become eligible by having become [affiliated for one] members for one year, or, in other words, the term of their membership in your union having reached a year in duration, their names also should be added to the list. Hoping to hear from you immediately and asking you to address your reply to our Washington office, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor61 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR LABOR OMNIA VINCIT ORGD NOV. 15TH 1881. 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, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, James O'Connell, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice President, D. A. Hayes, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, Wm. D. Huber, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Seventh Vice-President, John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. Perham, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE, MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS, 'AFEL.' 801-809 G. ST. N. W. [Washington D. C.,] Nov. 16, 1909. Toronto, Canada. Mr. M. O'Sullivan, President, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers Int'l Alliance, Toronto, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the conference I recently had in my office here with you and Mr. Ottinger, of the Stove Mounters' International Union, I beg to say that he has submitted to me a brief statement as to the claims of jurisdiction of his organization. Of course/ it was understood that you also would furnish me with the claims of your Alliance or the furtherest limits you could go in the effort to reach some middle point upon which both could agree. May I hope that you will advise me as to this, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR LABOR OMNIA VINCIT ORGD NOV. 15TH 1881. LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE, MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS, 'AFEL.' 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, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, James O'Connell, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice President, D. A. Hayes, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, Wm. D. Huber, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Seventh Vice-President, John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. Perham, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. 801-809 G. ST. N. W. Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada No. 80 LF [Washington, D.C.] November 16, 1909. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: By Document #24, March 23, 1909, the Executive Council endorsed the scale of wages adopted by Federal Labor Union #7087 of Belleville, Ill. to be presented to the St. Clair County Gas and Electric Co. of Belleville. A similar scale was also endorsed by the Executive Council in 1908. The 1909 scale which was approved by the Executive Council and signed by the company, expires January 1, 1910. The organization now makes application for the endorsement of a wage scale between it and the St. Clair County Gas and Electric Co. to go into effect January 1, 1910 until January 1, 1911. Enclosed please find copy of the wage scale thus submitted. It is the same as the one submitted to the Executive Council March 23, 1909, by Document #24, except with the addition of the Paragraph #7 which calls for the "man working in purifying room to receive $2.00 per day, except when doing outside work, when he shall receive the prevailing wage for that work." The question submitted to the Executive Council for a vote is: Shall the wage scale of F. L. U. #7087 of Belleville, Ill.[**63**] --2-- be approved and the members of that organization be entitled to benefits from the defense fund should it be necessary for them to inaugurate a strike to enforce the same? F. L. U. was chartered 1898 and pays per capita tax upon 164 members. Benefits are being paid to the following organizations: The Printer Roller Makers' Union #10638 of Chicago, 12 members, one week's benefits due. Hair Spinners' Union #12353, Baltimore, 9 members, one weeks benefits having been paid. Federal Labor Union #12362, Galeton, Pennsylvania, 35 members. Kindly return your vote upon the above and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.64 Copy. ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT. Between Federal Labor Union #7087 & St. Clair County Gas & Electric Company. Belleville, Ill. Dec. 1909. We, the Federal Labor Union No. 7087 of Belleville, Ill. submit the following agreement to the St. Clair County Gas and Electric Company, to go into effect January 1, 1910 and remain in effect until January 1, 1911. Article 1, All Stokers to receive $2.10 per day. " 2, All Stokers' Helpers to receive $2.00 per day. " 3, Eight Hours to constitute a day's work. " 4, Water Gas Operator to receive $2.25 per day. " 5, Water Gas Operator when doing other work to receive the General Scale. " 6, Water Gas Operator's Helpers to receive the General scale. " 7, Man working in Purifying room to receive Two ($2.00) dollars per day, except when doing outside work, when he shall receive the prevailing wage for that work. " 8, One Service man to receive $65.00 per month. " 9, All other Labor, whether around the Plant or on the outside, to be paid according to the General Scale of Federal Labor Union No. 7087 of Belleville, Ill. " 10, Eight Hours to constitute a day's work; time and one-half for overtime, Sunday, Decoration Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas. Signed this - - - - - - - - - - - - - day of - - - - - - - - - - 19 _____________________________ For the St. Clair County Gas & Electric Co. Endorsed by The (Signed) John J. J. Joffray, President Clifford James, Secretary Trades Assembly, For the Federal Labor Union #7087, of Belleville, Ill, Belleville, Illinois Seal.65 Toronto, Canada Nov. 16, 1909 Ralston, Siddons & Richardson, Bond Bldg., Washington D. C. In view of turn of events urge you to request Judge Parker meet you for early conference and also to be in Washington Sunday for conference in which we can participate. We are also wiring Judge Parker to same effect. SAMUEL GOMPERS FRANK MORRISON JOHN MITCHELL FRANK MORRISON Toronto, Canada, Nov. 16, 1909 Hon. Alton B. Parker, 3 South William St., New York City. We strongly urge conference you and Ralson and Siddons as soon as possible in view off the fact that Federation convention will not close until Saturday evening and we can not reach Washington before Sunday that you will kindly met us in conference in Washington that day. SAMUEL GOMPERS JOHN MITCHELL FRANK MORRISON.66 xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Nov. 16/ 1909 Prince George Hotel, Toronto Mr. G. W. Perkins, President, Cigar Makers' International Union, C/o G.B. Bradford, 1612 8th Ave./ Ybor City, Tampa, Fla. Dear Sir and Brother: Yours of the 15th received and contents noted. I very much doubt now that I will be able to make the Tampa trip. I presume you have seen the press reports to the effect that the court has refused the extension of time asked in our case and therefore it will be necessary forus to be in Washington Monday morning. We are arranging to be there on Sunday for a conference with our attorneys. Will try to write you again. Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 67 Printed form for rest of this letter. Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Can. M. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 16, 1909 Mr. Morgan Davis, Tecumseh, Nebraska. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 8th instant is at hand, in which you state that your High School is to debate the question "Resolved, That Labor Unions are beneficial," and you desire some information upon this subject. Enclosed you will 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-nine 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 17th year of its existence . We would not be able to furnish you with complete sets of either the hound proceedings or the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, but you could doubtless secure or consult these at some public library.68 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 17, 1909 Mr. J. T. Kinsella, President, Steam and Hot Water Fitters, Massey Hall, Toronto, Canada Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of November 8th, I beg to say that I am just in receipt of a letter from Wm. J. Spencer, Secretary-Treasurer of the Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor, in which he says: "I beg leave to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th instant, and desire to say in reply that we are taking up the subject of which you write with the Providence Building Trades Council. Let me say, however, that this is the first intimation we have had of the complaint and, accordingly, we are writing the Building Trades Council inquiring upon what grounds the Steam Fitters were unseated, and requesting at the same time that rightful recognition be accorded the local union of that craft." Just as soon as I receive any further information upon this subject I will write you further. In the meantime, with kind regards, believe me to be, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 69 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 17, 1909 Mr. Lester Nusbaum, Chairman, Associated Hebrew Charities, Rochester, N.Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 12th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that owing to previous engagements it will be impossible for me to comply with your request to deliver an address on the evening of December 21, 22 or 23rd in connection with the fair which will be conducted by the Associated Hebrew Charities. Regretting my inability to comply with your request, I am, Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor70 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 17, 1909 Mr. John R. Alpine, General President, United Assn. of Journeymen Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters,etc. Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: On October 19th, in reply to my letter to you of October 14th, you advised me that you would immediately write to your local union at Enid, Oklahoma, in regard to the matter of their affiliation with the Trades Council of that city. In connection therewith, I beg to stay that I am now in receipt of another letter from the Secretary of the Trades Council of Enid that thus far the Plumbers Local Union has failed to send delegates to the central body. Will you kindly take this matter up again at your early convenience, to the end that your Enid Local Union may take prompt steps to comply with the provisions of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. governing such matters. Thanking you in advance for your prompt attention to the above, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.71 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 17, 1909 Mr. J. L. Tuley, Secretary, Trades Council, Lock Box 1072, Enid, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that On October 19th President Alpine of the International Association of Plumbers wrote me that on that date he was writing to his local in Enid, in regard to its becoming affiliated with the central body. Inasmuch as you state that the local has not yet sent delegates to your central body, I am again writing to President Alpine and am sure that he will take the matter up at his earliest convenience. Please keep me advised in regard thereto and believe me to be, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.72 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 17, 1909 Mr. G. F. Parker, Organizer, Grand Junction, Colorado. Dear Sir: By direction of President Gompers, whose time is wholly engrossed with the Convention of the American Federation of Labor, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 7th, together with The Charter of the City of Grand Junction, Colorado, and for which you will kindly accept his thanks. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.73 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 17, 1909 Mrs. J. Hoodless, Eastcourt, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. My dear Madam: By direction of President Gompers, whose time is wholly engrossed with the Convention of the Federation now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the eleventh, together with the Report on Trade Schools in relation to Elementary Education, and for which you will kindly accept his thanks. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.74 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 17, 1909 Mr. C. Legien, c/o Mr. Albert Baumeister, S. O. 16 Engelufer 15, Berlin, Germany. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 30th was duly received and contents noted. I immediately read your letter to the Annual Convention of the Federation of Labor now in session in this city and you will note from the enclosed page extract from the proceedings of the fifth day, your letter was the made part of those proceedings. The enclosed extracts also give stenographic report of my remarks to the Convention, in which, in reply to the request of one of the delegates, I gave a brief summary of the present status of our injunction case and the consequent contempt proceedings. I am sending copy of my report and also daily printed proceedings to Mr. Baumeister, which I presume are intended for you equally. If you will refer to that section of my report dealing with my European trip, you wil note my recommendation as regards the question of the affiliation of the American Federation of Labor with the International Secretariat. I would like you to request Mr. Baumeister to give you the opportunity of reading my letter to him of the 13th inst.75 Mr. C. Legien--2 As you can very readily understand, my time is very fully engrossed with the work of the Convention, so as to afford me very little opportunity to give to my correspondence. I will, therefore not attempt now to write you at greater length, but hope to be able to do so at a later date. In the meantime I shall be glad to hear from you often and whenever convenient. Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. [*N. B. Will cable you in a day or two about affiliation of the International Secretariat. Am hopeful of success, S. G.*]76 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 17, 1909 Dr. W. H. Tolman, 25 West 39th St., New York, N.Y My dear Sir: Your favor of the 13th instant is received and contents noted. If I can get a hold of two extra badges, I shall be glad to comply with your request to send them to Mayor Nathan of Rome and also to Prof. Martini, Director of the Labor Bureau of that city. I fear, however, that I will be unable to do so as I think the supply of badges is exhausted. Yes, the matter about which you gave me the memorandum through Miss Guard has been placed before the Convention and is now in the hands of the Committee and will be reported back to the Convention in due course of time. With kind regards, I remain, Sincerely yours, President American Federation of Labor. Write me often.77 Toronto Nov 18/09 Ralston, Siddons & Richardson Bond Bldg., Washington, D.C. Telegram received. Is it essential for us to be in Washington Sunday? Can't we hold conference Judge Parker in New York as originally arranged for Tuesday November twenty-third? Wire answer and you communicate with Judge Parker and obviate necessity of his and our going to Washington Sunday and permitting us to finish up our duties here. Samuel Gompers John Mitchell Frank Morrison. Ralston Giddons + Richardson Bond Bldg., Washington, D.C. Judge Parker telegraphs he will be in Washington Sunday for conference. [Samuel Gompers.]78 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909 Mr. Nathan Eisner, 287 Grover Street, Brooklyn, N.Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 10th instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am sending to you under separate cover copy of my report to the present Convention of the Federation in which I review the Buck's Stove and Range Company injunction case and resultant contempt proceedings, by reason of which Vice-president Mitchell, Secretary Morrison and I have been sentenced to nine, six and twelve months imprisonment. You say that the society of which you are Secretary will shortly have a debate upon the subject of the Union Shop and that you will take the side of labor and would, therefore, like such data and information as would be helpful to you in the preparation of your debate. I am directing our Washington office to send you printed matter bearing upon this subject. It will reach you in the course of a few days. I would suggest further that when the official printed proceedings of this Convention are out it would be well for you to secure a copy. 79 Mr. Nathan Eisner--2 They can be gotten from our Washington office. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.80 LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909 Mr. Thomas I. Kidd, 31-33 West 32nd St., New York, N.Y. My dear Mr. Kidd: Your favor of the 11th instant only reached me yesterday. It got among some mail for the delegates at the Convention Hall and in that way did not get to my hand until yesterday. I am sorry for I would certainly have sent you each day's proceedings of the Convention as they came out. Any way I am sending you such copies as we have, though that does not include the first and second day's proceedings as they are exhausted, except those copies which will be necessary to hold for our records until the complete proceedings are published after the close of the Convention. However, I have a separate copy of President Gompers' report, in which I know you will be especially interested and I am sending that also under separate cover. I find too that I can also send you some of the newspaper clippings of the first few days which I think probably will interest you. Of course you have seen through the press reports that it will be necessary for Mr. Gompers, Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Morrison to be in Washington on Monday next to place themselves in the hands 81 Mr. Thos. I. Kidd--2 of the court in connection with the recent sentence imposed by the Supreme Court of the District, and confirmed by the Court of Appeals. You can imagine what is the tenseness of feeling among the delegates but I will not attempt to discuss the matter herein. If matters are so arranged that Mr. Gompers will not have to go to jail, he will probably go to New York on Monday afternoon or the evening and be there all the next day and probably the next night, and although he has a number of engagements, yet you and he might have the opportunity at least to say "hello". With best wishes for you in every way, in which I am sure Mr. Gompers would join did he know I were writing, I am, Sincerely yours, Secretary to President Gompers82 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909 Mr. A. G. Heer, 1202 So. 18th St., Centerville, Iowa. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 12th instant, I beg to say that the official printed proceedings of the present Convention will not be ready for distribution until some weeks after the adjournment of the Convention. I would suggest that you write Secretary Morrison at our Washington office the latter part of December, when he will be able to give you definite information as to whether the printed proceedings are ready for distribution. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.83 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909 Mr. Gus. A. Gass, Business Agent, Federal Labor Union #7087, 4 Pine St., Belleville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant is at hand, in which you enclose the wage scale which your organization desires to submit to the St. Clair County Gas and Electric Company, to go into effect January 1, 1910. It was forwarded to me from our Washington office, to the above address. In reply I beg to say that I have submitted the matter to the Executive Council and as soon as a decision has been reached, I will advise you further. In the meantime, and with best wishes, believe me to be, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 84 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909 Mr. Lewis Schwellenbach, 1023 5th St., Spokane, Washington. Dear Sir: Replying to your card of recent date and which has been forwarded to me here by our Washington office, I beg to request that you write me more fully as to the nature of the information which you desire to be used in the preparation of the debate in which you contemplate taking part. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor. 85 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909 Miss Alice McCoy, Room 507 Ouray Bldg., Washington, D.C. My dear Miss McCoy: Please send to Mr. Nathan Eisner, 287 Grove Street, Brooklyn, N.Y. the Open Shop literature. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.86 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909 Mr. Fred A. Bueche, Jefferson County Trades & Labor Assembly, Stuebenville, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I cannot now make any definite promise to visit Steubenville, although I should indeed be glad to have the opportunity of doing so. You have no doubt noticed through the press reports what has been the action of the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia in the Buck's Stove and Range Company Injunction case and resultant contempt proceedings. By reason of that, therefore, I may be unable to make any definite promise as to my future engagements. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 87 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909 Mr. G. L. Stuebner, 12th St. & Division Ave., Long Island City, New York. Dear Sir: In continuation of my letter to you of November 11th, I beg to say that we have the copy for your advertisement, but not the cut. Kindly let us have cut at your earliest convenience, sending it to our Washington office, and oblige, Very truly yours, Ed'r. American Federationist President American Federation of Labor.88 PRINCE GEORGE HOTEL, TORONTO, CAN. M XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 18, 1909. The Carlisle News Company, Majestic Bldg., Denver, Colorado. Gentlemen: Your favor of the 8th instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request, I am sending you under separate cover sample copy of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official magazine of the American Federation of Labor. The price of the magazine is $1.00 per year, and enclose herein a circular which gives the rate of commission allowed to agents. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.89 Nov 19. 1919 Hon. Alton B. Parker, 3 South William St., New York City Inasmuch as the court has extended time will the original arrangements for conference on Tuesday your office to be satisfactory? Please wire answer. SAMUEL GOMPERS90 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont., Canada. Z xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Nov. 19, 1909. Rev. John P. Peters, 225 West 99th St., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir: President Gompers has instructed me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 16th Inst. and to thank you for the report to the Convention of the Social Service Commission of the Diocese of New York, which you enclose. He would write personally but his time is fully taken up with the work of the convention of the American Federation of Labor now in session in this city. Very truly yours, Secretary to Pres. Gompers.91 CABLEGRAM. Form 1545. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. November 17, 1909 To Legien, Berlin. [Convention] Federation voted to affiliate International Secretariat. Gompers. _____________________________ Dr. to The Western Union Telegraph Co. For message to ___________________by_________________ dated___________190 No. of Words _________________Rate ________________Amount $____________ (Sgd.) _________________________________________ Sender. 92 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 19, 1909 Mr. Peter Myrvold, Director Det Nationale Afhold Sforbund, 2427 14th Ave. South, Minneapolis, Minn. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is wholly engrossed with the work of the Convention of the Federation, now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 12th instant, which was forwarded here from our Washington office. It will be brought to his attention as soon as possible. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.93 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 19, 1909 Miss Mary Van Kleeck, 325 East 31st Street, New York, N.Y. My dear Madam: Replying to your favor of November 15th, I beg to advise you that the Convention of the Federation now in session in this city has directed that the report of the Industrial Education Committee be published in pamphlet form for distribution. We hope to get this out at as early a date as possible, but at present I cannot indicate to you definitively just when that can be done. You might write our Washington office again in the course of the next six or eight weeks, when I may be able to give you more definite information. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.94 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 19, 1909 Mr. Frank W. Cameron, Editor, Tacoma Labor Advocate, 5432 Union Ave., Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is wholly taken with the work of the Convention now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th instant which will be brought to his attention as soon as possible. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers. 95 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 19, 1909 Mr. William Gallant, Constable, Post Box 124, Parma, Mo. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 14th instant is received and contents noted. You say that there are about 150 men who are ready to be organized into a union and you request that an organizer of the American Federation of Labor should be sent to your city immediately. I wish you would give me more detailed information upon the subject, that is, at what kind of work are these men employed and is there any organization of any trade located in Parma and vicinity. In fact give me the fullest possible information, addressing your reply to our Washington office, when I will then be in a position to indicate more definitely what we can do in the premises. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.96 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 19, 1909 Mr. G. A. Weber, General Secretary, Octavia Hill Association, 510 South Seventh St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 16th instant has been duly received and contents read with a very great deal of interest. Your suggestion as to a paper on the labor movement in foreign countries for each issue of the American Federationist is a most excellent one and if it can be carried into effect, I am sure it would prove to great interest to the readers of the American Federationist. With the experience which you say you have had along this special line of work, it would appear to me that a monthly paper of the character suggested, prepared by you would be of value, of interest and of help to the great cause which we have the honor of represent. I note what you say as regards the matter of remuneration and to be entirely frank with you, I want to say that the American Federationist is not in a position to offer any remuneration for such work. You indicate your desire, in the event of our inability to make any remuneration, to give the work without cost, because of the great interest which you feel in our movement. The American Federationist is not published as a moneymaking matter, but for its educational value and for organization purposes 97 Mr. G. A. Weber--2 and while we have many contributors of great value and interest, yet they are always gratis. I note what you say in regard to the foreign bulletins which you would desire to consult each month, in the preparation of these papers. I am unable to say now whether our office receives the bulletins you indicate, but I rather think they do. However, when I return to headquarters I will have the matter looked up and will write you further in regard thereto. If we do not receive them I will correspond with the labor department of the several countries you name and request them to place us on their mailing list. Let me hear from you further, and believe me to be, Appreciatively and cordially yours, President American Federation of Labor.American Federation of Labor Executive Council. President, SAMUEL GOMPERS. Secretary, FRANK MORRISON. Treasurer, JOHN B. LENNON, Bloomington III. First Vice-President, JAMES DUNCAN, Hancock Bldg., Quincy Mass. Second Vice-President, JOHN MITCHELL, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y Third Vice President, JAMES O'CONNELL, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington D. C. Fourth Vice-President D. A. HAYES, 950 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, WM. D. HUBER, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, JOS. F. VALENTINE, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Seventh Vice-President, JOHN R. ALPINE, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. PERHAM, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. 801-809 G. ST. N. W. LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE, MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS, 'AFEL.' [Washington, D. C.,] November 20, [1]09 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. Mr. G. W. Perkins, President, Cigar Makers' International Union, C/O G. P. Bradford, 1612 8th Ave., Ybor City (Tampa), Fla. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my note to you a few days ago, I regret to say that it will now be impossible for me to go to Tampa as I promised the latter part of this month. The court has extended the time for handing down its mandate until the 29th of this month, and of course, as you understand, I must be in Washington on that date so as to appear in court, and, therefore, I wouldhvae time for the trip to Tampa and return to Washington by the 29th. Kindly convey to all over friends there my sincere regret that circumstances have so haped themselves as to prevent my keeping my engagement. I hope for the sucees of your trip[.] the organization of the cigar makers for their own protection, and the best interests of the movementin general. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, 99 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 20, 1909 Mr. Harry Forrester, Attorney and Counselor at Law, 845 Ellicott Square, Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 8th addressed to President Gompers has been duly received and I have been holding it hoping that he would have the opportunity of making personal reply. However, he has been so crowded with the immediate work of the Annual Convention of the Federation now in session in this city, committee meetings, conferences and Executive Council meetings incident to the Convention that he has been unable to give his personal attention to his correspondence. I am, therefore, writing to make this acknowledgement of the receipt of your letter and to suggest that you confer with Mr. Frank Zeitz, 255 Genesse Street, Buffalo, N.Y., Secretary of the United Trades and Labor Council of Buffalo, as to your suggestion of delivering a series of addresses before the different organizations of that city. As Secretary of the United Trades and Labor Council Mr. Zeitz will be in a position to speak authoritatively for the labor movement of Buffalo. 100 Mr. Harry Forrester--2 You suggest that you would like to see Mr. Gompers as he passes through Buffalo on his return trip to Washington. As he is going from here direct to New York on Sunday evening, I am afraid he will not have the opportunity. In any event you might write him again later to our Washington office as to the result of your conference with Mr. Zeitz. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers. Toronto, Ont., Nov. 21, 1909. Hon. Charles S. Deneen, Governor of Illinois, Springfield, Illinois The terrible disaster at Cherry shows necessity enactment best measures so far as human ingenuity can devise to prevent recurrence. The Illinois Legislature should make suitable appropriation to aid widows, orphans and other dependants of killed and injured miners. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor directs that these matters be called to your attention and you respectfully urged to incorporate same in your call for special session. SAMUEL GOMPERS, President American Federation of Labor. COPY. Toronto, Ont., Nov. 21, 1909. Hon. William H. Taft, President United States, Washington D.C. Executive Council American Federation of Labor respectfully urges among other important matters affecting labor legislation, you will recommend to Congress the establishment of the Childrens Bureau. SAMUEL GOMPERS, President American Federation of Labor. Toronto, Ont., Nov. 21, 1909. Owen R. Lovejoy, Care of White House, Washington, D.C. By direction of Executive Council I have just sent the President the following telegram: "Executive Council American Federation of Labor respectfully urges among other important matters affecting labor legislation you will recommend to Congress the establishment of a Childrens Bureau." SAMUEL GOMPERS. 101 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxNovember 21, 1909. Honorable Edward J. Clackin, State Senator, 265 South Morgan Street, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir: I have received your favor of November 18th enclosing letter and petition, asking my assistance in urging the Gouvernor of Illinois to insert in his call for the special session of the Legislature a provision for an appropriation to relieve the widows and orphans of the victims of the mine disaster at Cherry. I beg to advise that this was brought to the attention of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at a meeting this morning, and in accordance with their actions I immediately wired the following to Gouvernor Deneen: "Honorable Charles S. Deneen, Gouvernor of Illinois, Springfield, Illinois. The terrible disaster at Cherry shows necessity enactment best measures so far as human ingenuity can devise to prevent recurrence. The Illinois Legislature should make suitable appropriation to aid widows, orphans and other dependants of killed and injured miners. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor directs that these matters be called to your attention and you respectfully urged to incorporate same in your call for special session." Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.102 L. Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Ont. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx November 21, 1909. Honorable William H. Taft, President of the United States, Washington, D. C. Sir: Today I had the honor of forwarding you a telegram of which the following is a copy: "Honorable William H. Taft, President United States, Washington, D. C. Executive Council American Federation of Labor respectfully urges among other important matters affecting labor legislation, you will recommend to Congress the establishment of a Childrens' Bureau. Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. This is written to confirm the above. In addition, I beg to inquire whether it would be convenient for you to meet a committee of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor consisting of Mr. John Mitchell, Mr. James O'Connell, Mr. Frank Morrison and the undersigned, on Thursday or Friday, November 25th or 26th. A word from you regarding the above to my Washington address will be greatly appreciated. Thanking you in advance, I beg to remain, Respectfully, President American Federation of Labor.103 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 20, 1909 Mr. W. F. Clarke, 2282 Queen Street East, Toronto, Canada. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 11th instant addressed to President Gompers has been duly reported and I have been holding it hoping that he would have the opportunity of making personal reply. However he has been so crowded with the immediate work of the Annual Convention of the Federation now in session in this city, committee meetings, conferences and Executive Council meetings incident to the Convention that he has been unable to give his personal attention to his correspondence. Replying to your request for reference to some publication dealing with the history of the labor movement in this county, I beg to your attention to the enclosed list pamphlets published by the American Federation of Labor and particularly the one entitled "History of Trade Unions". Should you desire any of this, kindly advise us at our Washington office and the matter will be given prompt attention. I should think you would also find it of value and interest in your study of the labor movement if you would consult the 104 Mr. W. F. Clarke--2 complete official proceedings of the Annual Conventions of the Federation. They also could be secured through our Washington office. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.105 Form 1545 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLES SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Toronto, Canada. November 21, 1909 To Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary Labor Council, 316 14th St. San Francisco, Cal. Your telegram, as well as letters and other telegram received relating to dispute between the Newspaper Solicitors and Newspaper Carriers Unions and the San Francisco Call. The Executive Council decided that declaring a firm unfair in effect is simply similar to the declaration of a strike; therefore, no firm or its product should be declared unfair by a local trade union directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor until application has been made and approved by the Executive Council. The substance of this telegram was also telegraphed to the secretaries of the two unions interested. Samuel Gompers. Form 1545 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLES SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Toronto, Canada, November 21, 1909 Mr. W. D. Asselstine, To 114 Kempton Ave. Oakland, California Relative dispute your unions and the San Francisco Call, the Executive Council decides that declaring a firm unfair in effect is similar to the declaration of a strike, therefore no firm or its product should be declared unfair by a local trade union directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor until application has been made to and approved by the Executive Council. This decision is in compliance with the rules and laws of the American Federation of Labor and applies to the case in question. Samuel Gompers (Charge to A. F. of L.) Dr to The Western Union For Message to No. of W106 Prince George Hotel, Toronto, Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 20, 1909 Mr. L. T. Chapell, Secretary Pro Tem, Central Labor Council, 53 Platt St., Hornell, N.Y. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is wholly engrossed with the work of the Convention of the Federation now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th instant, enclosing constitution and By-laws of the Central Labor Council, which was forwarded here from our Washington office. This matter will be held for President Gompers' attention as soon as possible after his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.107 Prince George Hotel, Toronto Canada. LF XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX November 20, 1909 Mr. E. H. Chapman, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 201 Mill St., Port Chester, N.Y. Dear Sir: As President Gompers' time is wholly engrossed with the work of the Convention of the Federation now in session in this city, I beg to acknowledge receipt of the By-Laws of the Central Trades and Labor Assembly of Port Chester, N.Y., which was forwarded here from our Washington office. This matter will be held for President Gompers' attention as soon as possible after his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers.108 M November 26, 1909 Mr. H. A. Hammond, Secretary, Guernsey Valley Trades and Labor Assembly, 944 Steubenville Avenue, Cambridge, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 12th is at hand, in which you state the Trades and Labor Assembly recommends the appointment of Robert Segg, Robert Gallop and Charles Baugman, as volunteer organizers for Cambridge and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to them in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to them a package of literature and documents published by this office which I am sure they will find of assistance in the discharge of their duties as the representatives of the A. F. of L. for that section. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, [signed] Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.109 M November 26, 1909. Mr. Simon Cohen, 1422 1/2 E. Fayette St., Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of November 24th received this morning I beg to inquire whom it in you represent, and for what purpose your Committee desires to confer with President Gompers. Kindly advise me as to this at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.110 M November 26, 1909. Mr. Charles S. Macfarland, The Congregational Parsonage, 37 Bayview Ave., South Norwalk, Conn. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 23rd instant, and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and Mr. Gompers. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated. He would write you personally in reply, but has only returned to the office today after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*111*] M November 26, 1909. Mr. James B. Peterson, 160 Bleecker St., New York City. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 21st instant, and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and Mr. Gompers. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated. He would write you personally in reply, but has only returned to the office today after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.112 M November 26, 1909. Mr. E. P. Dole, Elk's Club, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 15th instant, and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and Mr. Gompers. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated. He would write you personally in reply, but has only returned to the office today after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers. [*113*] M November 26, 1909. Mr. Jere Brennan, Heckscherville P. O., Pottsville, Pa. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 22nd instant, and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and Mr. Gompers. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated. He would write you personally in reply, but has only returned to the office today after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*114*] X. Nov. 26, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find certificates of deposit which you sent me the first of this month for examination by the auditing committee of the Federation. Kindly acknowledge receipt, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.115 X. Nov. 26, 1909. Mr. Geo. W. Perkins, President, Cigar Makers' International Union, Monon Bldg., Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Mr. Santiago Iglesias, President of the Porto Rican Federation of Labor, who is now in the United States incident to the Convention of the American Federation of Labor, called at my office here and discussed with me a number of matters affecting the conditions of the labor movement in Porto Rico. He told me that he had a brief conversation with you in Toronto, but that you were so exceedingly busy there that your time was limited so that you could reach Tampa, and that therefore you could not give the matter the full consideration on which he had in mind to present. Substantially, I am repeating his statement. It is that there is no doubt of a growing desire on the part of the Cigar Makers of the Island to organize in locals of the international union but that it is also true, by reason of the temperament of the people and their lack of understanding of the basis of the practical laws of the international union, that they some times imagine it is within their right to enter into a strike whenever their enthusiasm so directs them. In other words, they think that they can go on strike without any obstacle or necessary authority from any other source to either approve or disapprove their course, or to put it still more plainly, 116 Mr. Geo. W. Perkins --2-- that the international union should pay them strike benefits whenever they go on strike, whether the strike is authorized or unauthorized. I am informed that in Porto Rico a Joint Advisory Board was created for the purpose of aiding the unions, to advise with the unions, and in a measure help to curb hasty and ill advised strikes, and that in the exercise of these functions some of the Cigar Makers Unions have regarded this as an unwarrantable interference with their right to strike at any time, for any cause, or for no cause at all. Of course, I know that a Joint Advisory Board such as exists in Porto Rico is not the legal body for such purposes as is understood by the Constitution of the Cigar Makers International Union, but it is composed of men who having had the best experience in the labor movement, some of them in the United States and other countries, while others again in the Island itself, they are deeply anxious for the protection and the promotion of the rights and interests of the Porto Rican workmen, and they realize what the international unions of the American Federation of Labor are doing and they do not want that this spirit of union solidarity, of unionism between the United States and Porto Rico shall be injured in the slightest. They apprehend that unless something is done of a practical nature, the ties between the unions of Porto Rico and the United States may be weakened, with injurious results particularly to the Porto Rican Workmen. You know that I have had some experience in these matters. I visited Porto Rico, studied the conditions of the workers there six weeks. I think I know them as well as does any American who does not live there. My judgement, my sympathy, and my sentiment go out to the Porto Rican people, and in addition to this, I am strongly impelled to the idea that some direct or quasi authority should be117 Mr. Geo. W. Perkins --3-- given the Joint Advisory Board of Porto Rico in order to help advise, to help to guide the unions of the Island, and to prevent hasty, illy considered strikes, and which may provoke such hostile action on the part of employers as to lead to disastrous lockouts. I have this suggestion to make for your consideration; that is, that you submit to the Executive Board of the International Union a proposition which, if approved by the E. B. should be submitted to the local unions of Porto Rico, the basis of the proposition being as follows; that the President of the Cigar Makers International Union, by and with the consent of the Executive Board, appoint a Joint Advisory Board, to consist of five trade unionists of Porto Rico, and that no strike be inaugurated by any local union of the Island, that no application for strike be submitted to the Cigar Makers' International Union, until it has received the approval of the Joint Advisory Board as herein proposed. Of course, such a proposition would require the approval of the local unions of Porto Rico, but I am persuaded with if this proposition is referred to the local unions of the Island during a period when they are not engaged in a contest, it will receive their calm consideration and approval. Certainly something should be done to prevent a condition arising which will be injurious to the Porto Rican Cigar Makers, as well as the international union itself. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.118 M November 26, 1909. Mr. Oscar B. Hawes, 5224 Greene St., Germantown, Phila, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 21st has been duly received and contents noted. In reply I regret to say that since my letter to you of November 9, which I wrote in Toronto, circumstances have so shaped themselves as to make it impossible for me to accept your invitation to address the Mens Club at any time in the near future. I was in hopes at the time I wrote you previously, that I could comply with your request, but I now find it absolutely impossible. I would suggest that you might extend an invitation to Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer of the American Federation of Labor, whose name appears on this letter head or some other member of the Executive Council. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*P.S. Perhaps some other time during the winter. S. G.*][*119*] X. Nov. 26, 190 9. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor, Ouray Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to call your attention to the fact that having written to the President of the United States regarding his meeting a committee consisting of the resident members of the Executive Council, he has advised me that he will meet us at the White House at twelve o'clock, Saturday, November twentyseventh. I suggest that we meet at this office at 11:30 tomorrow morning for the purpose of together proceeding to the White House. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.120 X. Nov. 26, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: This is to confirm telegram I sent you today requesting you to send Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor, the sum of Four Thousand Dollars: "Washington, D. C., Nov, 26, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Bloomington, Ill. Please transmit check to Secretary Morrison immediately for Four Thousand Dollars. Accept this as authority for same. Letter follows. SAMUEL GOMPERS." Secretary Morrison will send you receipt for the amount sent, and the accounts settled the end of the month. I trust that you and Mrs. Lennon and Barbara reached home safely and are in the best of health. Sincerely and fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.121 M November 26, 1909. Mr. Hugo Poetzsch, Berlin No. 55, Berlin, Germany. Dear Sir: Your favor of October 25th was received here just after I left headquarters to attend the annual Convention of the Federation in Toronto, Canada, and hence I have been unable to make earlier reply. Needless to say I was very glad to hear from you. I suppose through our friends Baumeister and Legien, you have had the opportunity of looking over the proceedings and daily reports of our convention as well as some of the newspapers reports I sent you. You say you have not received the two last issues of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, and I am, therefore, directing that they be sent to you under separate cover. I assume that the issues since the date of your letter to me have already reached you, and I am, therefore sending the August and September issues. These contain a summary of my news letters. Hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, and with kind regard, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President A. F. of L.[*122*] M November 27, 1909. Mr. F. W. McIlvaine, Secretary, United Trades and Labor Assembly, 204 East Main St., Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 24th is received and contents noted. Now in regard to the meeting to be held at Frankfort January 10, 1910, for the reorganization of the State Federation of Labor, in my opinion the circular requesting the local unions throughout the state to be represented at this meeting should be issued by your Trades and Labor Assembly. I should be glad, however, to give it an official endorsement and an appeal to be made part of it, urging the organizations throughout the state to be represented at the meeting. Send me draft of the circular just as soon as you get it prepared, and I will give it my immediate attention. Hoping to hear from you further at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.123 M November 27, 1909. Mr. L. H. Doukel, Station 2, Salisbury, N. C. Dear Sir and Brother: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 20th instant, in which you enclose copy of a leaflet you anticipate re-publishing. When these are published he would be glad to have you send a few copies to him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*124*] M November 27, 1909. Mr. H. J. M. Burmaster, P. O. Box 50, McDonoghville, La. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 20th instant, and to thank you for the kind words of congratulations upon his re-election to the presidency of the A. F. of L. He would write you personally in reply but has only returned to the office today after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.125 M November 27, 1909. Mr. Alex. Golden, 2 Elbert St., Schenectady, N. Y. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 21st instant, and to thank you for the kind words of congratulations upon his re-election to the presidency of the A. F. of L. He would write you personally in reply but has only returned to the office today after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers. 126 M November 26, 1909. Mr. J. D. Pierce, Apollo, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 23rd instant, and to thank you for the kind words of congratulations upon his re-election to the presidency of the A. F. of L. He would write you personally in reply but has only returned to the office today after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers. 127 M November 27, 1909 Mr. Stuart Reid, 550 Eastern Ave., Lynn, Massachusetts, Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the United Trades and Labor Assembly of Louisville, Ky., in regard to a meeting to be called at Frankfort, January 10, 1910, for the re-organization of the Kentucky State Federation of Labor. In connection therewith he says: "There is some doubt as to the payment of dues to the State Federation by several organizations and we would like some instructions from you in regard to the matter. Mr. Reid when here advised that we pay no more dues to the present organization, and many of the local unions are in arrears from 3 to 6 months. It is the question with us whether they will be allowed representation at this Convention when it meets. We would respectfully ask your advice in this matter and if you can enlighten us we will be under obligations." I have yet replied to this portion of Mr. McIlvaine's letter, but am awaiting advice from you. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*128*] Z Nov. 27, 1909. In replying refer to Proposition #80. Mr. James Duncan, Vice-President, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: During the Toronto Convention, on November 16th, by document No. 80, I submitted to the Executive Council the wage scale of Federal Labor Union #7087 of Belleville, Illinois. Thus far I have not received your vote upon this proposition. Kindly advise me in regard thereto and oblige Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.129 Z Nov. 27, 1909. In replying refer to Proposition #60. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, 10096 Metropolitan Building, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: During the Toronto Convention, on November 16th, by document No. 80, I submitted to the Executive Council the wage scale of Federal Labor Union #7087 of Belleville, Illinois. Thus far I have not received your vote upon his proposition. Kindly advise me in regard thereto and oblige Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 130 Z Nov. 27, 1909. In replying refer to Proposition #80. Mr. James O'Connell, Vice-President, 407 McGill Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: During the Toronto Convention, on November 16th, by document #80, I submitted to the Executive Council the wage scale of Federal Labor Union #7087 of Belleville, Illinois. Thus far I have not received your vote upon this proposition. Kindly advise me in regard thereto and oblige, Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*131*] Z Nov. 27, 1909. In replying refer to Proposition #80. Mr. William D. Huber, Vice-President, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: During the Toronto Convention, on November 16th, by document No. 80, I submitted to the Executive Council the wage scale of Federal Labor Union #7087 of Belleville, Illinois. Thus far I have not received your vote upon their proposition. Kindly advise me in regard thereto and oblige Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.132 Z Nov. 27, 1909. In replying refer to proposition #80. Mr. John H. Alpine, Vice-President, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: During the Toronto Convention, on November 16th, by document No. 80, I submitted to the Executive Council the wage scale of Federal Labor Union #7087 of Belleville, Illinois. Thus far I have not received your vote upon this proposition. Kindly advise me in regard thereto and oblige Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.133134 X. Nov. 27, 1909. No. 82. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: At our Toronto meeting the Executive Council decided to hold the next meeting at Headquarters beginning Friday, January seventh, 1910. We set this time for the meeting because of the fact that a great conference was to be held at Washington for the purpose of furthering the movement for more uniform legislation among the several States, and because the American Federation of Labor was to be represented at that conference. While in New York I was informed that owing to the fact that the Governors of several States desired to participate in the conference for uniform legislation, and that they are to be in Washington about the middle of January to discuss another important subject, it was likely that the conference on uniform legislation might be postponed until about the middle of January. Today I am in receipt of a letter from Vice President Mitchell in which he advises me that the conference on uniform legislation has been definitely fixed to open on Monday, January seventeenth, and he suggests that the Executive council meeting be called to meet on Monday the tenth, or Tuesday the eleventh, of January, instead of Friday the seventh as originally planned.135 Executive Council ---2--- The purpose of my writing now is to advise you of the above, and to suggest the thought that it might suit the convenience of the members of the Executive Council to meet at the time suggested by Mr. Mitchell, or if that time be inconvenient, to meet at the close of the uniform legislation conference, beginning Wednesday the nineteenth, or Thursday the twentieth of January. If the dates suggested by Mr. Mitchell are agreeable, members of the Executive Council could attend the U. L. conference at the close of our meeting. If the later date suggested is more agreeable, members of the Executive Council could attend the U. L. conference first, and then the Executive Council meeting later. Of course, so far as I am concerned, the later date would be much more convenient, for it would give me the opportunity of attending to the editorial writing and the getting out of the February issue of the American Federationist. In any event, I should be pleased to hear the suggestion of the members of the Executive Council upon this subject, so that a definite date for our meeting in January may be determined. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.136 X. Nov. 27, 1909. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor, Ouray Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Friend: You will recall that at the conference we held with Judge Parker and Mr. Ralston in the former's office in New York, our opinion was asked upon the following matter: that in the event of the Supreme Court of the United States granting the writ of certiorari, whether we should take the initiative in asking the Court to advance the case, or concur should the other side ask to have the case advanced, or whether we should insist upon the ordinary course being pursued, and the case placed upon the calendar. We promised to advise our counsel of the course we would pursue, but owing to the fact that we were all of us so busily engaged in matters demanding our immediate attention, we were unable to get at the matter at all. It is for that reason I am writing. Personally, I am more strongly of the opinion I expressed at the conference; that is, for practical results as well as all advantages, our best course would be to ask that the case be advanced. It is not likely that there will be a change of opinion by the Court, whether the case is heard in three or four months or in a year from now. The decision would in all liklihood be the same. If the Supreme Court should sustain our contention and137 Mr. Frank Morrison ---2--- reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals, it will, of course, settle the matter in its entirety. On the other hand, should the Supreme Court sustain the Court of Appeals, the interest of the people will not have lagged too much, and a better opportunity for legislative relief would then be at hand. In not less than half a dozen instances, men have come to me and expressed the opinion that by reason of the stay granted by the Court, "it is indefinite in character and the case will never be called." Viewed from every point, the conclusion which I have reached is expressed above. However, inasmuch as we shall be required to advise our counsel as to the action they should take. I kindly ask you to inform me of your views at the earliest possible moment. Of course, I shall be entirely governed by the views you and Mr. Michell entertain. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. P.S. Am sending a similar letter to Mr. Mitchell.[*138*] X. Nov. 27, 1909 Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Building, New York City. Dear Friend: You will recall that at the conference we held with Judge Parker and Mr. Ralston in the former's office in New York, our opinion was asked upon the following matter; that in the event of the Supreme Court of the United States granting the writ of certiorari, whether we should take the initiative in asking the Court to advance the case, or concur should the other side ask to have the case advanced, or whether we should insist upon the ordinary course being pursued, and the case placed upon the calendar. We promised to advise our counsel of the course we would pursue, but owing to the fact that we were all of us so busily engaged in matters demanding our immediate attention, we were unable to get at the matter at all. It is for that reason I am writing. Personally, I am more strongly of the opinion I expressed at the conference, that is, for practical results as well as all advantages, our best course would be to ask that the case be advanced. It is not likely that there will be a change of opinion by the Court, whether the case is heard in three or four months or in a year from now. The decision would in all liklihood be the same. If the Supreme Court should sustain our contention and[*139*] Mr. John Mitchell --2-- reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals, it will, of course, settle the matter in its entirety. On the other hand, should the Supreme Court sustain the Court of Appeals, the interest of the people will not have lagged too much, and a better opportunity for legislative relief would then be at hand. In not less then half a dozen instances, men have come to me and expressed the opinion that by reason of the stay granted by the Court, "it is indefinite in character and the case will never be called." Viewed from every point, the conclusion which I have reached is expressed above. However, inasmuch as we shall be required to advise our counsel as to the action they should take, I kindly ask you to inform me of your views at the earliest possible moment. Of course, I shall be entirely governed by the views you and Mr. Morrison entertain. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. P.S. Am sending a similar letter to Mr. Morrison.[*140*] Z Nov. 27, 1909 Mr. E. L. Richardson, Secretary, Irish Trades Union Congress, 7 Melrose Avenue, Fairview, Dublin, Ireland. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 20th has been duly received and I was indeed glad to have a word from you. Yes, in the issues of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST while I was abroad were published extracts from my weekly newsletters which were published in full in a number of daily papers throughout the country. I have directed that the Irish Trades Union Congress be placed upon our exchange list to receive the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST regularly and am also directing that the issues commencing with July, 1909, be forwarded to you so that you may have the opportunity of reading at least part of my review of European conditions as they appear to me. I am sorry that I am unable to send you the letters in full, as you express the desire to read them. I am also sending you a copy of my report to the last annual convention of the Federation, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20th. I think you will probably find it of interest. On next Monday, November 29th, the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia will hand down its mandate in the contempt proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and myself, and our attorneys on our our behalf will make application for a writ of certiori.141 Mr. E. L. Richardson----2-- We will of course continue to fight by every legal means at our command for the maintenance of free speech and free press. Let me hear from you occasionally and do not fail to send my any matter published by your Congress which you may deem of interest. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Best wishes to you and to all our friends whom you may meet. S.G.142 Z Nov. 27, 1909. Mr. Louis Burket, Organizer, 287 Bowman St., Wilkes Barrie, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th Inst. received and contents noted. I have also noted the letter you enclose addressed to you by Secretary Hayes of the International Typographical Union in regard to the newspaper writers. I would suggest, therefore, that you make formal application for charter to the American Federation of Labor, when the matter will be submitted to my colleagues of the Executive Council. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 143 M November 27, 1909. Mr. Wharton Barker, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: I have just returned to my office this morning after an absence of three weeks attending the annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, and holding important conferences in New York after the close of the Convention. One of the first matters to receive my attention is your favor of November 19. As you can very readily understand I am extremely crowded at present with accumulation of work incident to my long absence from my office as well as work outlined by the Convention. I am, therefore, unable at this time to indicate any special date when I could arrange for the suggested interview with you. You might write me again in the course of the next two weeks when I may be able to give you more definite information. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 144 Z Nov. 27, 1909 Mr. Charles Reichers, c/o Co-operative Clothing Company, 1082 Broadway, Brooklyn, N. Y. My dear Mr. Reichers: While in Toronto a letter was forwarded to me from our Washington office from Mr. Charles P. McInerney, Vice-President of the Director Union Telegraphers Aid Society, who was for three years Secretary-Treasurer of Commercial Telegraphers' Local Union No. 16, and copy of said letter is enclosed herein. I wish you would please give me some information in regard thereto and oblige Yours very sincerely, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*(copy.)*] 145 New York, Nov. 15, 1909. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The writer was for three successive years Secretary- Treasurer of the Commercial Telegraphers Union of America, New York Local No. 16. The result of our strike in 1907 and the attitude of the telegraph companies made it necessary my seeking a new field of endeavor. I became a salesman and have, I am pleased to state, made good. Mr. Charles Reichers of the Co-operative Clothing Co., with which I am now connected, informs me that he has made you UNION MADE GARMENTS and that you have expressed a satisfaction with work performed. If you would be pleased to write me a letter stating your ideas on UNION MADE GOODS in general and the Co-operative clothing in particular you would be rendering a fellow unionist a splendid service and said letter would, I am certain, be extremely helpful in creating a more general demand for UNION MADE GOODS amongst men of labor. Fraternally yours, (Signed) Charles P. McInerney[*146*] Z Nov. 27, 1909. Mr. William J. Smith, President, South Carolina State Federation of Labor, 1820 Barnwell St., Columbia, S. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of November 21st, I beg to say that in compliance with your request I am writing to the secretaries of the various national and international unions the list of whose locals you give as not being affiliated with the South Carolina State Federation of Labor, requesting them to take the matter up with their respective locals, and I sincerely trust that good results will thereby be secured. I note what you say in regard to having Organizer De Nedrey visit Columbia during the convention of your State Federation on January 3rd. I cannot now make any definite promise in regard thereto for I think it is exceedingly doubtful that we will be able to act upon your suggestion. You might write us again, however, about the latter part of December, when I hope to be able to advise you more definitely. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*147*] LF November 29, 1909 Hon. William H. Taft, President of the United States, Washington, D.C. Sir: Enclosed please find a copy of the Eight Hour Bill, H. R. 15651, which this morning I promised to forward you today. The Bill is the one introduced in the First Session of the 60th Congress by Hon. J. J. Gardner of New Jersey. Very respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:148 LF November 29,1909 Mr. Charles M. Maxwell, Secretary, Typographical Union #6, World Building, New York, N. Y. Dear Friend Maxwell: Just before leaving for the other side, I sent out a few letters to a limited number of friends in the labor movement and men who know the late August McGraith, former secretary of the American Federation of Labor. I asked them to subscribe something toward the relief of Mrs. McCraith and her boy. $114.00 were subscribed and enclosed you will find check for that amount, drawn in your favor by Secretary Frank Morrison. You will please add this to any fund which you may have for Mrs. Mc Craith's benefit. It is a very small amount, it is true, but it is all that could be had both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle to whom I could address a letter on the subject. Sincerely hoping that the same may contribute in part to the relief of Mrs. McCraith, and that the future may be brighter for her, I remain, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:[*149*] X. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Secretary, Journeymen Tailors' Union of America, Bloomington, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3d., 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number [is] are your local unions Nos. 17, 201, and 305, at Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your local and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3d. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give the matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance, and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*150*] X. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. L. W. Quick, Secretary, Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Star Building, St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3d., 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number is your local union #118 at Charleston. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretary of your local and urge upon him the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3d. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you ." Trusting that you will give the matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance, and hoping your will advise me in regard thereto, I am , Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President. American Federation of Labor.[*151*] X. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. John E. Bray, Secretary, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' Int'l. Alliance, 325 Nelson Building, Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3d., 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number is your local union #152 of Columbia. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your local and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented by the Convention on January 3d. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give the matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance, and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*152*] X. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. Patrick McMullen, Secretary, International Printing Pressmen's Union, Lyric Theater Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3d., 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your local unions Nos. 177 and 233, at Columbia and Spartanburg. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on Jan. 3d. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give the matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance, and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*153*] X. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. John M. Love, Secretary, Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, and Steam Fitters Helpers, of United States and Canada, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd., 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your local unions at Charleston, Spartanburg, and Sumter. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3d. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give the matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance, and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*154*] X. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. Jacob Fisher, Secretary, Journeymen Barbers' International Union, 222 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3d., 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number is your local #223 of Columbia. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretary of your local and urge upon him the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3d. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give the matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance, and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*155*] X. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. J. W. Hays, Secretary, International Typographical Union, 640-50 Newton Claypool Bldg. Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3d., 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your locals #385 and #341, at Greenville and Spartanburg. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give the matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance, and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*156*] Z Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. Lewis Fannin, Blackfork, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22nd Inst. is received, in which you state that the Clay Miners desire to be organized in the American Federation of Labor and you desire some information on this subject. In reply I beg to say that I am taking the matter up with Mr. T. L. Lewis of the United Mine Workers of America, State Life Building, Indianapolis, Indiana, requesting him to write you direct giving you full information as to the organization of the Clay Miners. You will probably hear from him in the course of a few days. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*157*] Z Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. T. L. Lewis, President, United Mine Workers of America, 114 State Life Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from Mr. Lewis Fannin of Blackfork, Ohio, in which he requests information in regard to the clay miners of that district. I would appreciate it if you would kindly write to him at your early convenience, giving him the data he desires. I have advised him that I would take the matter up with you and you would advise him in regard thereto. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federal of Labor.[*158*] M November 27, 1909. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter addressed jointly to you, Vice-President Mitchell and myself. I have received quite a number of letters in regard to the decision of the Court in our case, but those addressed jointly will be copied and transmitted to you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*159*] M November 29, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter addressed jointly to you, Secretary Morrison and myself. I have received quite a number of letters in regard to the decision of the Court in our case, but those addressed jointly will be copied and transmitted to you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federal of Labor.[*160*] M November 29, 1909. Mr. George C. Bodine, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, 514 Dumaine St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 20th is at hand, in which you state the Central Trades and Labor Council recommends the appointment of Mr. John Stadler, President of the Street Carmen's Union of New Orleans as volunteer organizer for New Orleans and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Stadler in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by his 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'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*161*] M November 29, 1909. Mr. J. T. Kinsella, President, International Assn. of Steam and Hot Water Fitters & Helpers, Room 205, Merrick Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of November 8, from Toronto, Canada, in regard to the trouble at Providence, R. I. between the Building Trades Council of that city and your local union, as I advised you I took the matter up with Secretary Spencer of the Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor. I am now in receipt of a letter from him in which he says: "Referring again to your inquiry concerning the refusal of the Providence R. I. Building Trades Council to seat the local of International Steam Fitters, I beg to say that we are in receipt of a communication in answer to our inquiry in which the following is submitted as the reasons why the Steam Fitters have been denied seats: 'OFFICE OF PROVIDENCE R. I. BUILDING TRADES COUNCIL. Providence, R. I., Nov. 4, 09. "TO Whom it May Concern: "The Providence Building Trades Department suspended the International Association of Steam Fitters from membership for reasons as follows: "They refused to enter into a joint agreement with the U. A. as per the endorsement of the department. "They accepted without principle or honor into their union men whom the U. A. fought into union recognition at a loss of hundreds of dollars to them and the Department. "They have manufactured cards for non-union men to meet trade union emergency. "They have hidden their identity as union men at times when their support was needed in co-operation with the Department.[*162*] J. T. K. 2. "They have refused on all occasions to unite with the Council in sympathetic action, even when the fight was for their own men. "They have offered their services in displacing other union men whenever the needs of employers required. "Their agents when acting as such have deliberately told their men not to unite in support of the action of the Council. "They have done everything bad that a non-union man would do and many things bad he would not do. "For these and many other reasons, the council deemed it for the best interests of the trade union movement that such an organization should be set apart from the Building trades. If these reasons are not sufficient we can supply many more when needed and called upon.' If you have any further comment to make, I would be pleased to hear from you at your earliest convenience." I would be glad to have you advise me further in regard to this at your early convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federal of Labor.[*163*] M November 29, 1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenters' Bldg. , Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of November 22nd in regard to the trouble of your local union and the local union of Shipwrights, I beg to say that I have just written to Secretary Thomas Durett, Secretary International Union of Shipwrights' Joiners and Caulkers, requesting him to give this matter his prompt attention. As soon as I hear from him I will advise you. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor[*164*] M November 29, 1909. Mr. Thomas Durett, Secretary, International Union of Shipwrights' Joiners and Caulkers, 108 Marshall St., Elizabeth, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find a copy of letter just received from Secretary Duffy of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners in regard to the trouble of the local union of the U. B. and your local union at Miami, Florida. I would appreciate it if you would kindly give this matter your early attention, in compliance with Secretary Duffy's request. Kindly let me hear from you in regard to this at your early convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*165*] UNITED BROTHERHOOD OF CARPENTERS & JOINERS OF AMERICA. Indianapolis, November 24, 1909 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith find copy of complaint lodged at this office a short time ago by Union #993 of Miami, Florida against the action of the Shipwrights, Caulkers, and Joiners Union in admitting house carpenters to their ranks. That the Shipwrights are taking an undue advantage of our organization is plainly evident and I would therefore request that you take this matter up with the International Officers of that organization and see if something cannot be done to remedy conditions now existing. Thanking you in advance for anything you can do for us in this matter and with best wishes and kindest regards, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Frank Duffy, General Secretary.[*166*] (COPY) Union No. 993 Miami, Fla., Nov. 12,1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, Gen. Sec., Dear Sir and Brother: I am instructed by Union 193 to write you concerning the following. We have an agreement with Union #76, Shipwrights, Caulkers and Joiners to recognize each others working cards. The membership fee of 76 is five dollars and ours is ten dollars. They take advantage of this agreement and take in members working at house work that never worked at ship work and probably never will. A man will come here and go to work and if they can they will get him in and the man is usually willing to join 76 instead of joining our Union as they will take him in cheaper than we will. We dont believe they have any right to accept house carpenters any more than we have to take in ship carpenters. The Union requests that you take the matter up with the General Office of the Shipwright, Calukers and Joiners Union and see if they will not put a stop to the practice. Fraternally yours, H. E. Hendrick R. S. 628 11th St., Miami, Fla. [*167*] M November 27, 1909. Mr. O. A. Millard, 5956 Cabanne Ave., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 23rd instant, and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and Mr. Gompers. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated . He would write to you personally in reply, but has only returned to the office after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*168*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of Bottle Cap, Cork and Stopper Workers Union #10875 of Baltimore, calling attention to a previous letter in which he gave a list of concerns in New York and Brooklyn in that line of work and about which you were written on July 7th in regard to making some effort to organize their employes. I do not find, however, that we have received any report from you upon this subject. I would appreciate it, therefore, if you would kindly let me hear from you in regard thereto at your early convenience and oblige Yours fraternally, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor[*169*] Z Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. Charles Leonard, 4210 Cote Bulliante, St. Louis, Missouri. Dear Sir: Your postal card dated November 26th has been received. In reply I beg to advise that the President of the Amalgamated Meat Cutters and Butcher Workmen of North America is Mr. E. W. Potter, 124 Park Avenue, Utica, New York. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*170*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Henry W. Bullock, 415-416 Law Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 28th and to thank you for the clipping you enclose from the Terre Haute Star as well as express his appreciation of your letter and the sentiments you convey therein. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.[*171*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Chas. W. O'Daniel, 143 Branch St., Spartanburg, South Carolina. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 2[8t]h received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am sending to you under separate cover a package of organizing literature published by this office and also list of affiliated organizations, giving the names and addresses of their respective secretaries. I should be glad to hear from you further at your convenience. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*172*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. G. A. Weber, Philadelphia Housing Commission, 510 South Seventh St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 23rd Inst. received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that all of the foreign bulletins and publications to which you refer are on our exchange, though upon having the matter looked up I find that while we have copies of all of them yet some numbers of each have failed to reach us. If you will write me which months' issues you particularly desire I will send on to you the ones that I have and should I not have all of them I will write to the various foreign departments for them. In addition to the bulletins which you name I find we have several other foreign publications among which the following are the bulkiest in size and the most numerous in quantity: Jaarverslag Central Bureau Voor Sociale Adviezen Amsterdam. ---------------------------- Porotokol Der Derhandlungen Des Zwieten Kongresses Der Gerwerksonhaftew Deutchland Hamburg. ---------------------------- Le Le Movement Socialiste Paris[*173*] Mr. G. A. Weber ----2---- [?] Revue Occidentale Organe Du [Posi?visme] Director Pierre Laffitts, Paris. Congress Socialiste International Brussells. Office Du Travail Notices et Comptes endus. Paris. Annuavie Statisque Paris. Internaciona Socialisto First copy dated Oct. 1803 but no location of publication. Annuavie Des Syndicats Professionels, Paris 108-1909. Funfter Internationales Berich liber die Gewerkschaftsbewegung Internationalen Sekretaries Berlin 907. Trusting that I may hear from you again at your convenience, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.174 Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Sylvester A. Baker, Secretary, Bottle Cap, Cork and Stopper Workers' Union #10875, 1 Wilson St., Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 6th has been duly received, with which you enclose a list of companies manufacturing bottle stoppers. In July of this year a similar letter was received from you, and, as advised you under date of July 7th, I took the matter up with our organizer in New York, Mr. Herman Robinson. I cannot find that any reply has been received from him and have again written him upon the subject. Immediately upon receipt of a reply from him I will communicate with you further. If you do not hear from me in the course of the next month write me again. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*175*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. J. M. Karns, McKendree College, Lebanon, Illinois. Dear Sir: Your undated postal card, post marked November 26th, had been duly received and contents noted. You request information as to the labor movement beginning with its early history down to the present day. I would suggest that you secure a copy of "The Ancient Lowly" by Osborne Ward. In addition to that I am sending to you under separate cover copy of a pamphlet published by this office entitled "History of Trade Unions", by Wm. Trant. I also enclose list of the pamphlets which we publish and should you desire any of them your order will be given prompt attention. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. I would also suggest that you consult the official printed proceedings of the annual conventions of the American Federation of Labor. You should be able to have access to these in some one of the public libraries.176 LF November 30, 1909 Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 31, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your local unions Nos. 159 Charleston, 1558 Gaffney, 1682 Lancaster, 1368 Laurens, 1897 Spartanburg, and 1025 Walterboro. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject, President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly: some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention: again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers. President, A.F. of L. 177 LF November 30,1909 Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Drawer 199, Lafatette, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January [?] 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number if your local union No. 844 at Greenville. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretary at your local and urge upon him the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject, President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly: some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*178*] LF November 30, 1909 Mr. George Preston, Secretary, International Association of Machinists, 402-407 McGill Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your local unions Nos. 547 Abbeville, 188 Charleston, 206 Florence and 545 Georgetown. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communication with me upon the subject, President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, A.F. of L.[*179*] LF November 30, 1909 Mr. Owen Miller, Secretary, American Federation of Musicians, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number in your local union at Charleston. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretary of your local and urge upon him the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject, President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all those were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, A.F. of L.180 LF November 30, 1909. Mr. James Duncan, Secretary, The Granite Cutters' International Assn. of America, Hancock Bldg., Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number is your local union at Charleston. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretary of your local and urge upon him the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject, President Smith says: "Requesting the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large Convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.181 LF November 30, 1909 Mr. William Launer, Secretary, Glass Bottle Blowers Association of the U. S. and Canada, Rooms 930-931 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number is your local union No. 103 at Columbia. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretary of your local and urge upon him the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject, President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our State Branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large Convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.182 LF November 30, 1909. Mr. Peter W. Collins, Secretary, Intl. Bro. of Electrical Workers of America, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number is your local union No. 89 at Georgetown. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretary of your local and urge upon him the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject, President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.183 LF November 30, 1909 Mr. R. E. Fisher, Secretary, Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, 307-310 Kansas City Life Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your local unions Nos. 15 and 14 at Charleston and Florence. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.184 LF November 30,1909 Mr. George E. Pfeiffer, Secretary, National Federation of Post Office Clerks, 377 Albion St., Milwaukee, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number is your local at Rock Hill. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretary of your local and urge upon him the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.185 LF November 29, 1909 Mr. Wm. F. Kramer, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Suite 570-585 Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your local unions Nos. 454 Charleston, and 257 Florence. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.186 LF November 19,1909 Mr. W. J. Gilthorpe, Secretary, Brotherhood of Boiler Makers and Iron Ship Builders of America, Suite 7-12, Law Building, Kansas City, Kans. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your local unions Nos. 50, 235 & 424 at Charleston, Columbia and Florence. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.187 LF November 29,1909 Mr. James W. Dougherty, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Bookbinders, 132 Nassau St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I am advised by President Smith of the South Carolina State Federation of Labor on January 3rd, 1910, a convention of the State Branch will be held in Columbia, South Carolina. Many local unions throughout the state are not represented in the State Federation of Labor. Among the number are your local unions Nos. 163 and 167 at Columbia and Charleston. I am writing to request that you take the matter up with the secretaries of your locals and urge upon them the necessity of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the State Federation and to be represented at the Convention on January 3rd. In communicating with me upon the subject President Smith says: "Request the international unions to write their locals to get busy, and join our state branch, in order to be able to make a large showing, as reports will reach the ears of the legislators, and they will be governed accordingly; some very important bills, left over from this year will be up for final disposition, and it is important that it be a large convention; again, if all these were affiliated it would not be necessary to seek financial aid from you." Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and thanking you in advance and hoping you will advise me in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.188 X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. James O'Connell, President, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your attention is called to resolution No. 54, introduced by Mr. Frank A. Feeney, of the Elevator Constructors International Union to the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor. For covenience I enclose a copy of that resolution to you herein. Resolution No. 54, together with resolution No. 68, introduced by yourself, Eugene Sarber, C. W. Fry, J. J. Keppler, and Thomas Van Lear, of the International Association of Machinists, copy of which you will also find enclosed, were referred to the Committee of Adjustment at Toronto. Later, you and your associates withdrew resolution No. 68. The Adjustment Committee reported to the Convention upon resolution No. 54 as follows: "That the President of the American Federation of Labor be instructed to immediately institute an investigation in regard to the controversy of the Elevator Constructors of Chicago. If it is found that the claim of the Elevator Constructors Union is correct with reference to the situation in Chicago, in our opinion, the men now on the jobs of the striking Elevator Constructors should be taken off and the controversy in Chicago should be adjusted by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, or some representative member of the Executive Council." While this subject was under consideration at the Convention, the following addition to the report of the Committee was proposed:189 Mr. James O'Connell ---2--- "That the Machinists be requested to remove their men pending an investigation." The amendment was adopted as an addition to the report of the Committee and in that form adopted by the Convention. You are aware that my time has been fully occupied with other matters requiring my attention, particularly those referring to the proceedings before the Courts. Late last night I received the following telegram: "Chicago, Ill. Nov. 29, 1909. Samuel Gompers Ouray Building, Washington, D. C. Machinists have failed to carry out Toronto Convention relating to Elevator Constructors. To avert general building trades strike an immediate compliance is imperative. What steps have been taken to enforce decision? Please wire answer at once. (Signed) James Kirby." Of course, I have been unable to telegraph Mr. Kirby any definite information, but I communicate the above to you, first, with the statement that I shall at the earliest possible moment take up the question to institute an investigation in regard to the Chicago controversy, and second, to convey to you the expressed wish of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, "That the Machinists be requested to remove their men pending an investigation." Will you kindly advise me at once what action has been taken by you to comply with the above request, or what action you will take, and when, to carry out the request made. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.190 LF Washington, D.C., November 30, 1909 Mr. J. C. Skemp, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Ind. Kindly advise me by telegraph the date of opening Brotherhood Convention at Cincinnati and probable time the Convention will last. Samuel Gompers.191 M November 30, 1909. Mr. Samuel R. Stevens, Organizer, 1521 West 12th St., Bedford, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your two favors of November 26th have been received, and beg to advise that your commission was renewed and forwarded to you November 27. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 192 M November 30, 1909. Mr. H. P. Morgan, 1714 Fourth Ave., Sioux City, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your favor of recent date is at hand, and in reply I beg to enclose to you herein copy of a pamphlet by the undersigned entitles "No Compulsory Arbitration", in which I discuss fullly the subject of compulsory arbitration. If you could refer to a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor, of which I am editor, and consult the issues of March and April, 1901, you would find several editorials which I wrote upon the subject. Also if you could refer to the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July, 1902, you would secure some very valuable matter as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon this subject. Very truly yours, Sam. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*193*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. Ludwig Jablinowski, 15 Spruce St., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 24th is at hand, and in compliance with your request I enclose to you here list of organizations affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*194*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. D. McLeod, McLeod's Hotel, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Friend: Your favor of Nov. 21st was duly received and I appreciate very much hearing from you. I want to thank you for your attention to Mrs. Gompers on her return from Toronto to Washington when she stopped over in Buffalo. She told me of your kindness and that her brief stay in Buffalo was most pleasant by reason of your courtesy and attention. She told me of the picture taken and that it was very good. I would like very much to have a copy of it. With best wishes for you and thanking you for your offer of assistance and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers[*195*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Rev. R. P. Williams, Third and C Sts., N. W., City. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of November 27th, I beg to say that it will be necessary for me to be in New York on December 6th and 7th and hence it will not be possible for me to address the Men's Club of your church on Tuesday, December 7th, as suggested by you. If I am in the city on the first Tuesday of January, that is January 4th, I will be glad to accept your invitation. I have made a memo. of the matter and would suggest that you write me again the [latter part] middle of December. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*196*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Capt. J. E. Bloom Department of the Colorado, E & C Building, Denver Colorado. My dear Capt. Bloom: Your favor of November 26th has been received and I was exceedingly pleased to hear from you. In compliance with your request I am sending to you under separate cover copy of the eleventh day's proceedings of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. in which is reported, though not in full, discussion upon the subject of Old Age Pensions. I am also sending to you a copy of the report of the Executive Council contained in the second day's proceedings, in which this subject is treated in detail. Included in the package is a copy of my report, which I think you will find of interest. Should you desire it when the proceedings are published in bound form I should be glad to send a copy to you. With assurances of my high regard and hoping to hear from you again whenever convenient, I am Very sincerely yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*197*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. Paul L. Vogt, Asst. Professor of Economics, State College of Washington, Pullman, Washington. Dear Sir: I am directed by President Gompers to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 15th instant, and to say that the articles mentioned were published in the Philadelphia Ledger, and extracts from them were published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST for July and August. If you desire these issues we can send them to you at ten cents per copy. Very truly yours, Sec. to President Gompers.[*198*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. Charles Eaton, Mr. J. R. Miller, Mr. A. B. Loebenberg. 749 East Lawrence St., Decatur, Ill. Dear Sirs: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of the Preamble and Resolutions, and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and Mr. Gompers. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated. He would write to you personally in reply, but has only return to the office after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*199*] Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. James Wilson, Gen'l President, Pattern Makers League, 1008-9 Second National Bank Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 26th Inst. received and contents noted. I am considerably in doubt now whether it will be possible for me to go to Cincinnati any time during the week of your convention. Our attorneys made application yesterday to the Supreme Court of the United States for a writ of certiorari. The application will be considered by the court and it will probably be a week or so before the decision is rendered. Of course you will appreciate I want to be within the jurisdiction of the court when the decision is given. I have an engagement in New York for December 6th and another one in Troy for December 12th. I do not even know now whether I will be able to keep these two engagements. If matters so shape themselves later as to enable me to go to Cincinnati I will advise you. It is needless for me to here repeat the assurances of my sincere desire to visit Cincinnati and the Painters' Convention. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers[*200*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. H. C. Blanton, East Falls Church, Virginia. Dear Sir: Your card of November 26th is received, and in reply beg to say that I am requesting Dr. Neill, Commissioner of Labor, to send you Bulletin 74 Bureau of Labor, January 1908, which gives a summary of the Employers' Liability Laws in the various states throughout the U. S. : also summary of Workmen's Compensation Acts of various countries, which I think will give you the information you desire. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*201*] M November 30, 1909. Dr. Charles P. Neill, Commissioner of Labor, Bureau of Commerce and Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Will you kindly send to H. C. Blanton, East Falls Church, Virginia, copy of Bulletin 74, Bureau of Labor, January 1908. Thanking you in advance for you compliance with this request, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*202*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. R. L. Douglas, 23 East Lee St., Lawrence, Kansas. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 19th instant is at hand, in which you request me to refer you to the early history of the fight between the Federation and the Buck's Stove and Range Company. In reply I beg to say that I am sending you under separate cover copy of my report to the Toronto Convention, in which a review of the whole case is given. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*203*] M November 30, 1909. The Charles C. Thompson Company, 338-344 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 24th instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request I enclose to you herein list of International Unions affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*204*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. A. H. Hornaday, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, Roundup, Montana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant is at hand, in which you state Local #2646 of the United Mine Workers of America has withdrawn its delegates from the Trades and Labor Council. By this mail I am taking the matter up with President T. L. Lewis, in accordance with your request, requesting him to urge upon his local the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to becomed affiliated with the central body as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting this will have the desired result, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*205*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. T. L. Lewis, President, United Mine Workers of America, 1114 State Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Roundup, Montana , in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city No. 2646 has withdrawn its delegates from 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.206 X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*207*] X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. James O'Connell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*208*] X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Secretary, National Civic Federation, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.209 X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. D. A. Hayes, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.210 X. Nov. 30, 1909. Hon. T. D. Nichols, Scranton, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August Mc-Craith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.211 X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. James Brettell, Mingo Junction, Ohio. Dear Sir: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.212 X. Nov. 30,1909. Mr. W. H. Mahon, President, Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes of America, 45 Hodges Block, Detroit, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.213 X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.214 X. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. Arthur W. Harris, #1 Clermont Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor dated November 20th is received today and contents noted. In reply to your request for information in regard to the history of the injunction suit of the Buck's Stove and Range Company against the officers of the American Federation of Labor, et al, I beg to say that I am sending to you under separate cover copy of my report to the last annual Convention of the Federation held in Toronto Nov. 8-20, and also my report to the preceding Convention of the Federation held in Denver, 1908, in which I review the entire case. Included in this package you will find copy of the decision of Justice Wright sentencing Vice-President Mitchell, Secretary Morrison and myself respectively to nine, six and twelve months imprisonment for contempt of court, and my editorial review thereof. I would suggest further that you call upon Mr. Frank Rist, 1311 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, who I am sure will be able to give you the opportunity of referring to a file of the American Federationist, the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor, of which I am editor, and in which I have published numerous editorials from time to time bearing upon this subject.[*215*] Mr. A. W. Harris --2-- With best wishes, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*216*] X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. A. D. Hill, Secretary, Fishermen's Protective Union #12852, Box 225, Miami, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant received and contents noted with a great deal of interest. In reply thereto let me suggest that you have your name recommended to me by your Central Labor Union, and I will be glad to issue you a commission as volunteer organizer for Miami and vicinity. You understand, of course, that the issuance of such a commission is upon the recommendation of a Central Body if there is one in existence in the locality, or otherwise upon the recommendation of the organization of which the applicant is a member. Hoping to hear from you further at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*217*] X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. J. L. Tuley, Secretary, Enid Trades Council, Enid, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of recent date in regard to the non-affiliation of the local union of Plumbers in the Central Body of Enid, I beg to say that I am just in receipt of a letter from Mr. John R. Alpine, President of the Journeymen Plumbers International Association, that he has again written his local union in Enid in regard to their taking immediate steps to become affiliated with the Trades Council, and if necessary he will send a special representative of his Association to Enid in regard to this matter. With best wishes, and hoping to hear form you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*218*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. C. H. Fauntleroy, 520 Olive St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 23rd instant, and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and Mr. Gompers. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated. He would write to you personally in reply, but has only returned to the office after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*219*] M November 30, 1909. Mr. George Main, Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 15th instant, and to thank you for the sentiments you express in regard to the recent decision of the Court of Appeals in the Contempt Proceedings against Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and Mr. Gompers. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated. He would write to you personally in reply, but has only returned to the office after an absence of three weeks on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*220*] LF November 30,1909 Mr. Simon Cohen, 1422 1/2 E. Fayette St., Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th instant to hand and contents noted. You say you desire to have a committee meet me regarding an address by me in connection with the Cloak Makers' strike, which has been in progress for several months and the injunction under which two of the striking Cloak Makers have been sent to jail for six months each. In connection therewith permit me to say that my impression is that it would be better if such a mass meeting were held under the auspices of the Baltimore Federation of Labor, and I should have no hesitancy in making an arrangement to address a mass meeting at a time mutually convenient to discuss the subject to which you refer. I understand that the Baltimore Federation of Labor will meet tomorrow, Wednesday evening. It might be well to bring the matter to the attention of that body then. If a committee will come to Washington Saturday afternoon about two o'clock, I should be glad to see such a committee. Of course you understand that I am very busily engaged with important work, and I shall count upon the courtesy of the committee so that my time may not be too much encroached. [*221*] Mr. Simon Cohen--2 With best wishes and hoping to hear form you and the committee at your earliest convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.222 M November 27, 1909. Dear Sir: You will confer a favor upon the American Federation of Labor and its affiliated branches by granting an interview to the bearer Mr. R. J. Stevenson, who is authorized to procure business announcements and advertisements for the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for the year Nineteen Hundred and Nine. The American Federation of Labor is composed of 118 International Unions, representing 27,000 local unions, 39 State Federations of Labor, 584 City Central Labor Unions, and 580 independent local unions. The membership of the American Federation of Labor is approximated at 2,000,000, and the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is the only official publication issued by the American Federation of Labor to this vast army of consumers. It is, therefore, a medium of great value to legitimate business houses who advertise in it. It is owned and published by the American Federation of Labor, and all profits accruing therefrom go into the general treasury of that organization. Agents are not authorized or allowed to accept payments of any kind. All contracts should be made upon the official blanks of the American Federation of Labor. All payments should be made by check payable to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, and mailed to this office direct. No donations of any character are accepted. Any courtesies extended to the bearer will be greatly appreciated and reciprocated by our organization. Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.[*223*] M January 1, 1910. Dear Sir: You will confer a favor upon the American Federation of Labor and its affiliated branches by granting an interview to the bearer Mr. J. O'Brien, who is authorized to procure business announcements and advertisements for the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for the year Nineteen Hundred and Ten. The American Federation of Labor is composed of 118 International Unions, representing 27,000 local unions, 39 State Federations of Labor, 584 City Central Labor Unions, and 580 independent local unions. The membership of the American Federation of Labor is approximated at 2,000,000, and the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is the only official publication issued by the American Federation of Labor to this vast army of consumers. It is, therefore, a medium of great value to legitimate business houses who advertise in it. It is owned and published by the American Federation of Labor, and all profits accruing therefrom go into the general treasury of that organization. Agents are not authorized or allowed to accept payments of any kind. All contracts should be made upon the official blanks of the American Federation of Labor. All payments should be made by check payable to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, and mailed to this office direct. No donations of any character are accepted. Any courtesies extended to the bearer will be greatly appreciated and reciprocated by our organization. Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.224 M November 29, 1909. Mr. Robert S. Maloney, Aldermen, Lawrence, Mass. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 20th is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that most undoubtedly I think the attitude you took in regard to the employment of union men on the paving work of the municipal government of your city was right and proper, and I congratulate you upon the course you followed. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*Thanks for congratulations. I hope that I may deserve the good opinion of my fellow man. S. G.*][*225*] M November 29, 1909. Mr. J. C. Privett, Organizer, Box 271, Jacksonville, Fla. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 21st received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that after making the engagement for Tampa, Florida, owing to the action of the District Court here in the contempt case, against Vice-President Mitchell, Secretary Morrison and myself, it was necessary for me to be at [headquarters] Washington, and hence I was unable to make the trip to Tampa. I appreciate your invitation to stop over at Jacksonville, and would indeed [to] have been glad to have the opportunity of doing so had I gone to Tampa. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.226 M November 29, 1909. Mr. E. M. Roszelle, 855 Main St., Hartford, Conn. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of November 23rd, I beg to say that I am of the opinion that you should accept the appointment as member of the High School Commission of Hartford, Conn. In connection with this matter I am sending to you under separate cover report of the Industrial Education Committee of the A. F. of L. which was made to the recent annual Convention of the Federation held in Toronto, Canada. The Executive Council and myself also reported upon this subject, and the Convention in approving these reports directed that they should be jointly published in pamphlet form. We are now preparing this matter for publication. I shall be glad to send you a copy as soon as it is out if you will write me again as a reminder. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.227 M November 29, 1909. Mr. A. Letroade, Organizer, 569 Hamilton St., Vancouver, B. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 16th instant, I beg to enclose to you herein list of central bodies affiliated to the A. F. of L., from which you will note that there are a number of central bodies in the Dominion of Canada, which are chartered by and affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. Most undoubtedly the central body of Vancouver should also follow in line with the many other central bodies of the Dominion under the banner of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*228*] LF Washington, D. C., Nov. 30,1909 William J. Spencer, Friggs House, Chicago, Ill. Please have Building Trades Department take up action Toronto Federation Convention on Resolution one hundred eighteen. Samuel Gompers. (Charge to A. F. of L. )229 L. Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Ouray Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 27th received, in which you ask what should be the course pursued by our attorneys if the Supreme Court granted the writ of certiorari applied for today. You seem to be of the opinion that the quicker we can get a decision from the Supreme Court in regard to this particular case the better for the American Federation of Labor. If I was certain that the decision was going to be in our favor, then I would certainly agree with you. While I can not see how the Supreme Court can render an adverse decision, in the face of the arguments presented, yet that was the state of my mind in regard to the District Court of Appeals. I could not see how, with their opinions in front of them, they could do other than reverse Justice Wright. For that reason there is great danger that the Supreme Court may find some tortuous road which they can travel to sustain Justice Wright, and at the same time avoid the question of free speech and free press. Hence, I am of the opinion that the best interests of the American Federation of Labor would be served if the work referred to the Executive Council by the Toronto Convention230 Mr. Samuel Gompers--2 was carried into effect and the contemplated meetings held by the members of the Executive Council in the cities to be named by the resident members of the Executive Council. There is now a fund of information to furnish to organized labor at the prospective points, as well as to the six hundred or more affiliated Central Bodies. One of the matters that I have in mind and which was discussed briefly at the meeting with attorneys in New York, was the proposition of printing a number of thousands of the dissenting opinion of Justice Shepard and mailing it to every clergyman in the country as well as to the editors of the press. The longer this matter is delayed the greater will be the discussion editorially. I attach herewith copy of an editorial from the Toronto GLOBE, which gives you an idea of how the editor of the old, reliable and conservative GLOBE of Toronto looks at this particular case. It is worth a hasty perusal, if not a careful reading. I can not agree with the opinion that has been expressed that the Supreme Court would hold this case indefinitely; in other words, that it would never be reached for trial. If the writ is granted, there will be three cases involving the same principles before the Supreme Court. A decision on either one will probably settle these cases, in a manner, so far as the American Federation of Labor is concerned. With best wishes, I remain, Yours fraternally, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor. Encl.[*231*] Form 1545. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to.} Washington, D. C., Nov. 30, 1909. To Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Cal. Yesterday I sent you the following telegram: "Executive Council has taken no action publishers protest on charter." That is clear and definite. I do not understand purpose of threat. Letter follows. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. TELEGRAM. Washington, D. C., Nov. 29, 1909. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary, San Francisco Labor Council, San Francisco, Cal. Executive Council has taken no action publishers protest on charter. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.232 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. ORG'D NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT 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, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y. Third Vice-President, JAMES O'CONNELL, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, D. A. HAYES, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, Wm. D. HUBER, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, JOS. F. VALENTINE, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Seventh Vice-President, JOHN R. ALPINE, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. PERHAM, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. 801-809 G ST. N. W. LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE, MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS, 'AFEL' Washington, D. C., November 30, 1909 Mr. Ralph M. Easley, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. My dear Mr. Easley: Will you do me the kindness to send me at once copy of the address delivered by Honorable Seth Low at the annual meeting of the National Civic Federation, the opening address which he delivered on Monday morning last? If you can promptly let me have this, I should be additionally obliged to you. Sincerely yours, President American Federation of Labor.233 X. Nov. 26, 1909. Mr. Eugenio Sanchez Lopez, Acting President, Free Federation of Labor of Porto Rico, 29 Luna Street, San Juan, Porto Rico. Dear Sir and Brother: In the temporary absence from the Island of Mr. Santiago Iglesias, President of the Free Federation of Labor of Porto Rico, I am impelled to write you, and through you to the organized workers of Porto Rico, upon a few matter of the utmost importance. At the outset, it should be needless for me to say that the American Federation of Labor is not only in entire sympathy with the working people, and the people generally of Porto Rico, but also appreciate the bond of unity and fraternity, and that everything has been, and will be done for the purpose of protecting and promoting the in- terests and rights of the Porto Ricans. So far as I am personally and officially concerned, it ought not to be necessary for me to say how deeply I am in accord with these thoughts. However, what I I want to impress upon the minds of the unorganized workers of Porto Rico is that it is essential that the conduct of the affairs of the union, and the union members, must be such as to comply with the laws of the American Federation of Labor, as well as the laws of the international unions of which local unions in Porto Rico are a part.234 Mr. Eugenio Sanchez Lopez --2-- I am not unmindful of the natural characteristics of Porto Ricans, nor would I suggest anything that would in any way dissipate them, but enthusiasm and temperament, though great qualities in themselves, unless they are controlled by intelligence in organized labor particularly, they are likely to lead to such a course as is calculated to injure rather than benefit. It is my desire to avoid misunderstanding, and I therefore repeat the thought in another way; that is, that enthusiasm and temperament are good, but in the unions as well as the conduct of the members, must be such as will not violate either the written laws or the spirit of the laws of organized labor. Calmness, and deliberate action, coupled with enthusiasm and temperament, must bear results. Haphazard, hasty action may bring a momentary satisfaction, but it also brings reaction and defeat. This is a lesson which [should] the history of organized effort among the workers of the whole world proves without the slightest deviation. All the ills which have grown up in Porto Rico in four hundred years cannot be rectified in a day. It takes time, patience and perseverance, and these intelligently directed will bring what may seem slower, but absolutely surer advantageous results. There is no progress which can be made in the improvement of the condition of the working people, and of the people generally of Porto Rico, which would be too fast for me, but I am also conscious of the law of growth and progress the world over, and any studious, thinking person will know for himself that the apparently slow growth is the surest permanent growth. It is the natural growth. In addition to the above, I might add that if thoughtful, practical action is taken by the organized workers of Porto Rico, it will have its beneficial influence also upon the unorganized workers, who will more readily join the unions, and it will also235 Mr. Eugenio Sanchez Lopez --3-- instill a greater respect in the minds of the people generally in Porto Rico. In view of the fact that the American Federation of Labor is not only endeavoring to aid our fellow workers of Porto Rico, but also the people generally, it seems to me to be the duty of the energetic organized trade unionists of Porto Rico to more generally respond for cooperative work to go among the unorganized workers and bring them within the beneficent fold of our labor movement. I doubt that you can convert the enemies to your unions by argument. A great American once said, "Time and circumstance make more converts than reason". In the same degree that you organize the working people of Porto Rico into unions of labor, you will have brought about the time and the circumstances which will compel the enemies of your movement to a better reason and to a better understanding, and with it all the workers will gain a greater degree of their own personal respect, the respect of each other, the confidence and control of yourselves and to work on for a better life, and a better day for the men, women and children of Porto Rico. The international unions are doing their level best. They are doing their duty. They have the right to expect, and they must insist, upon the Porto Rican union men and women doing theirs. If the workers of Porto Rico fail to do their duty, the responsibility of the loss and the injury, will be upon themselves alone. It is to impress Porto Rican union men of their duty, as well as the opportunities which are afforded, that I write this letter. Let us all unite in sentiment, in purpose, to do our full duty, and the future will be brighter and better for us all. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you and our[*236*] Mr. Eugenio Sanchez Lopez ---4--- other Porto Rican workers as frequently as convenient, I am. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*237*] X. Nov. 27, 1909. Mr. P. J. McArdle, President, Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel, and Tin Workers of North America, House Building, Smithfield and Water Streets, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant to hand and contents noted. I have just dictated a circular call, and will immediately send it out to the printer and as soon as received from him will have it forwarded to the offices of the National and International Unions affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. I will also forward a copy to your office. Thanking you for your good wishes, which are sincerely reciprocated, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*238*] LF November 30, 1909 Mr. George C. Bodine, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, 514 Dumaine St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reply to your favor of November 20th and in connection with my accompanying letter of this date, I beg to say that the Executive Council has decided that the subject matter of the labor situation of New Orleans should be given special consideration and that in all likelihood, in the near future, a committee of the Executive Council or representing it will visit New Orleans. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.239 M November 30, 1909. Mr. George C. Bodine, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, 514 Dumaine St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30 is at hand, in which you state that at the last meeting of the Council held November 18th you were directed by the unanimous vote of the Council to write and request that if possible a salaried organizer be placed in your city. In reply I beg to sat that it is impossible to send a special organizer just now to New Orleans. However, your request will be borne in mind, and if possible at any time in the near future to act in accordance therewith, and the funds of our organization will warrant, your application will receive consideration and you will be advised thereof. Regretting my inability to comply with your request, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 240 Z Nov. 30, 1909. Dr. Morris M. Brill, 18--20 West 34th St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: I want to thank you for your favor of November 27th and the suggestion you make therein in regard to the subject matter of boycotting. In connection therewith I call your attention to the November, 1907, issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, copy of which I am sending to you under separate cover. You will note my editorial upon the subject of boycotting in which I reproduce the reference to this subject from Prof. Woodrow Wilson's history. I infer from your letter that this matter has never before been called to your attention. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. Under separate cover I am also forwarding to you a copy of my recent report to the Convention of the American Federation of Labor held at Toronto this month. You will find the subject discussed there. I should like you to have a copy of the report of the committee having that subject under consideration, and which the Convention adopted, but it is not in final form. If, however, you will write me in the course of two weeks, I should be glad to furnish you a241 Mr. Morris M. Brill--2 copy of the proceedings containing that report. 242 LF November 30, 1909 Mr. George Sladovich, Hicks Bldg., Room 17, 314 Baronne St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 20th instant received and contents noted. The conference of the representatives of the various national and international unions which the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. directed should be held, has just been called. Enclosed find copy of the call. As to your suggestion in regard to the organization of foreign laborers, I beg to say that the organizations affiliated to the American Federation of Labor do not debar from membership any wage earner because of his nationality. There are numbers of members in the various affiliated organizations who are foreign born. In fact, it would avail but little if we admitted to membership only the American born workman if the foreign workmen who are brought here at the instance of the great corporations were not induced to cast in their lot with their American brothers, for their mutual protection and advancement, but as you can very readily understand, the organization of this class of workers is by no means an easy task. We need their cooperation and assistance; they need the moral support243 Mr. George Sladovich--2 of the American workmen. We are doing the best in their behalf as well as in our own behalf. Let me hear further from you in re the above or upon any other matter in the interest of labor. Will you kindly advise me as to your position in regard to the labor interests or the labor movement? With kind regard, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:244 M December 1, 1909. Mr. Clifford A. James, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 7087, A and Spring Sts., Belleville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: As stated in my letter dated November 18, from Toronto, Canada, to Gus A. Gass, Business Agent of Federal Labor Union #7087. your agreement was submitted to the Executive Council, and beg to advise you that same has been approved. This approval carries with it the authorization of your union to go out on strike if necessary in order to maintain your position, and your members thereby be entiled to benefits from the defense fund, in accordance with sections 4 and 5 of Article XIII of the Constitution. I sincerely trust, however, that it will not be necessary for your organization to have recourse to the extreme measure of going out on strike in order to secure the enforcement of your agreement, and I want to take this opportunity of expressing the hope that no action will be taken without the matter being given careful consideration. I also trust that you will keep me advised fully just what is done, and the results achieved. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from your whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President A. F. of L. [*245*] M December 1, 1909. Mr. H. E. Roe, 907 S. E. St., Oskaloosa, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 28th is at hand, and in compliance with your request, I enclose to you herein list of National organizations. The proceedings of the Convention will not appear in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, but will be published in book form at 25¢ per copy. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*246*] M December 1, 1909. Mr. Alex Ironsides, Secretary, Vermont State Federation of Labor, Barre, Vermont. Dear Sir and Brother: Relative to your commission as organizer I beg to say that same has been issued and forwarded to you under separate cover, and trust that there will be no further delay in your receiving same. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.247 M December 1, 1909. Mr. John F. Bowden, Knoxvilled, Tennessee. Dear Sir and Brother: Your report for the month of November has been received, and I not that you have moved from Whitwell to Knoxville. In reply I beg to say that as commission as volunteer organizer was issued to you for Whitwell, and as you are now a resident of Knoxville, I would kindly ask you to return same, and if you desire a credential for Knoxville, it will be necessary for you to receive the endorsement of the Central Labor Union of that place. Upon receipt of this endorsement the matter 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.[*248*] M December 1, 1909. Mr. John A. Snyder, Agent, Adams Express Company, Folks, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 30th is at hand, and in compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover sample copy of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, and enclose herein a circular which gives the rate of commission allowed to agents on subscriptions. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.249 M December 1, 1909. Mr. R. E. Briscoe, General Delivery, Sacramento, Cal. Dear Sir: Your favor of recent date is received and noted. I am sending you under separate cover sample copies of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, and enclose to you herein a circular which gives the rate of commission allowed to agents on subscriptions. Hoping to hear from you further relative to this matter, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.250 M December 1, 1909. Mr. M. French, Secretary, Lawton Co-operative Trades and Labor Assembly, Lawton, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 21st is at hand, in which you state that the Trades and Labor Council, recommends the appointment of W. M. Lane as volunteer organizer for Lawton and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Lane 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.251 Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communicated dated November 16th from Mr. M. E. Kirkpatrick, Cor. Rep. of the Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, Box 164, Granite City, Illinois, in which he asks for information as to why the Larkins' Soap Company is considered unfair to organized labor. I have advised him that I would refer the matter to you and that you would doubtless advise him direct by an early mail. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor252 Z Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. M. E. Kirkpatrick, Cor. Rep., Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, Box 144, Granite City, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 16th addressed to Secretary Morrison has been handed to me for reply. In regard to the matter of the Larkins Soap Company, I am writing to President James M. Lynch of the International Typographical Union, requesting him to give you the information you desire as to this company. You will doubtless hear from him by an early mail in regard to this matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.253 X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. James Duncan, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Hancock Bldg., Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.254 X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. John Fahy, President, United Mine Workers of America, District #9, Shamokin, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*255*] X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. John R. Alpine, President, United Association of Journeymen Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, and Steam Fitters Helpers, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*256*] X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Andrew Furuseth, 44 East Street, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*257*] X. Dec. 1, 1909. Hon. W. B. Wilson, Blossburg, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*258*] X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Hugo Miller, International Typographical Union, 640-50 Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you . Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*259*] X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. John W. Hays, Secretary, International Typographical Union 640-50 Newton Claypool Building Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*260*] X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, 640-50 Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small . but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*261*] X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. W. R. Fairley, Pratt City, Alabama. Dear Sir: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*262*] X. Nov 30th, 1909. Mr. Walter MacArthur, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 44 East Street, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*263*] X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Henry Cohen, 625 Symes Building, Denver, Colorado Dear Sir: In further acknowledgement of the receipt of your contribution to the fund in behalf of the widow of the late August McCraith, formerly Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to advise you that your contribution, together with the contributions of other interested friends, the total amount being One Hundred Fourteen Dollars, has been forwarded to the Secretary of Typographical Union #6, of New York City, with the request that it be transmitted to Mrs. McCraith. It is true that the amount is small, but it is all that could be had, both by reason of the limited time and the limited circle of those to whom I could address a letter upon the subject. For your contribution, on behalf of Mrs. McCraith, I beg to thank you. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*264*] M November 1, 1909. Mr. A. W. Bennett, Secretary, Trades Council, 828 Minnesota Ave., Chickasha, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand relative to Local # 187 of the Carriage and Wagon Workers. I am by this mail taking the matter up Secretary Brinkman, and as soon as I hear from him will write you. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.265 M December 1, 1909. Mr. John H. Brinkman, Secretary, International Carriage and Wagon Workers Union, 520 Sixth St. , N. W. , Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find copy of letter received from the Trades Council of Chickasha, Oklahoma, relative to refusing to seat the delegates from local #187 of the Carriage and Wa gon Workers. I have advised Secretary Bennett that I was taking the matter up with you, and would ask that you kindly give this matter your attention. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.266 Copy. TRADES COUNCIL. Chickasha, Okla. Nov. 14, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Dear Sir and Brother: There has been some correspondence between your office and myself with regard to our Central Body refusing to seat the delegates from Local 187 Carriage and Wagon Workers recently organized at this place. I think Mr. Morrison advised me that he would take the matter up and advise me, but as yet I have not heard from him with regard to the matter. I wish to further state that a Mr. R. B. Human is proprietor of a custom blacksmith and repair shop and carriage paint shop. Up to about a year ago his blacksmiths were members of the Blacksmiths Local 466 and his carriage painter was a member of Local 1005 Brotherhood of P. D. & P. of A. He also signed a contract with our Central Body (copy of which I herewith enclose) and was given a display card to paste up in his shop stating that the place was fair to organized labor. About a year ago he violated this contract by refusing to employ union men. By employing non-union painters at lower wages and working them longer hours, he practically ruined the business of the Brotherhood carriage painters who have an eight hour day at a scale of $3.20. Local 1005 P. D.& P. of A. exhausted every means within its power to induce Mr. Human to employ Brotherhood Painters, but being unsuccessful declared his place unfair and carried the matter up to the central body. The central body then used every reasonable effort to get him right but failed to accomplish the desired result and he was placed unfair by the Central Body.267 ---2--- Mr. Human then filed suit against the Central Body, its officers and members of all unions affiliated in the sum of $5000. and applied for an injunction to prevent us placing him on the unfair list. The central body went into court and beat both cases. This party has made various and repeated threats that he would break our central body and make its officers walk out of town. Failing to damage us from the outside this party devised the novel idea of organizing a union over whose members he has absolute control and get them seated in the central body where trouble could be started from the inside. When the charter for Local 187 C. & W. W. was examined it was found that not a single applicant in whose favor the charter was issued was engaged in the work of manufacturing vehicles of any kind. Among the charter members is the name of his bookkeeper and collector, exclusive horse shoer, wood repair workman and journeymen blacksmiths. Also his carriage painter. The trades council believing that Local 187 C. & W. W. was not organized for the purpose of benefiting its members and that the members were not eligible to the C. & W. W., but were eligible to unions already affiliated with the central body and that to seat the delegates from this alleged union would cause contentions, strife and divisions to such an extent as to seriously cripple the labor movement in this city, it was unanimously voted to not seat the delegates from 187 C. & W. W. At last meeting I was instructed by majority vote to take up this matter again and see if the C. & W. W. Intl. will not in the interest of unionism recall the charter of Local 187 as Mr. Human positively refuses to deliver the fair card which the Trades Council issued to him and which he has forfeited by violating his contract268 --3-- and is fraudulently posing as a union man by keeping the card on display in his shop. Hoping you may succeed in getting this matter adjusted to the best interests of the labor movement, I am, Yours truly, (Signed) A. W. Bennett, Secy. 828 Minn. Ave. P.S. Mr. R. B. Human's bookkeeper is Secretary of Local 187 and I have his word for it that he (Human, the employer) is in possession of all the correspondence being conducted with regard to that local. A. W. B.269 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #58. Mr. James F. McHugh, Secretary, Journeymen Stonecutters' Association of North America, 520 Sixth St. N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: A delegate from the International Union of Pavers, Rammermen, Flag Layers, Bridge and Stone Curb Setters at the Toronto Convention of the Federation introduced a resolution requesting the right of jurisdiction to be granted to that organization over Blue Stone Cutters. The matter was discussed at length upon the floor of the Convention, and the Convention directed that the entire subject should be referred to the executive officers of the stone cutting trades organization affiliated to the A. F. of L., so that they may hold a conference and decide upon such course of action as may be deemed most advantageous to the trade in general and which will be satisfactory to all interested parties. It is with this purpose in view, therefore, that I am writing to you and also a letter similar to this to the executive officers of kindred organizations. I would suggest to you and them that a conference be held at as early a date as may be mutually convenient, and agreeable. I would, therefore, be pleased to have you advise me what date would be most convenient to you.[*270*] ~2~ Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 271 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #58. Mr. P. F. McCarthy, Secretary, Quarryworkers' International Union of North America, Scampini Building, Barre, Vt. Dear Sir and Brother: A delegate from the International Union of Pavers, Rammermen, Flag Layers, Bridge and Stone Curb Setters at the Toronto Convention of the Federation introduced a resolution requesting the right of jurisdiction to be granted to that organization over Blue Stone Cutters. The matter was discussed at length upon the floor of the Convention, and the Convention directed that the entire subject should be referred to the executive officers of the stone cutting trades organizations affiliated to the A. F. of L., so that they may hold a conference and decide upon such course of action as may be deemed most advantageous to the trade in general and which will be satisfactory to all interested parties. It is with this purpose in view, therefore, that I am writing to you and also a letter similar to this to the executive officers of kindred organizations. I would suggest to you and them that a conference be held at an early date as may be mutually convenient, and agreeable. I would, therefore, be pleased to have you advise me what date would be most convenient to you.272 Mr. P. F. McCarthy--2 Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.273 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #58. Mr. Stephen C. Hogan, Secretary, International Association of Marble Workers, 715 Eagle Ave. New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: A delegate from the International Union of Pavers, Rammermen, Flag Layers, Bride and Stone Curb Setters at the Toronto Convention of the Federation introduced a resolution requesting the right of jurisdiction to be granted to that organization over Blue Stone Cutters. The matter was discussed at length upon the floor of the Convention, and the Convention directed that the entire subject should be referred to the executive officers of the stone cutting trades organizations affiliated to the A. F. of L., so that they may hold a conference and decide upon such course of action as may be deemed most advantageous to the trade in general and which will be satisfactory to all interested parties. It is with this purpose in view, therefore, that I am writing to you and also a letter similar to this to the executive officers of kindred organizations. I would suggest to you and them that a conference be held at as early a date as may be mutually convenient, and agreeable. I would, therefore, be pleased to have you advise me what date would be most convenient to you.274 Mr. Stephen C. Hogan--2 Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.275 LF November 30, 1909. When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #58. Mr. James Duncan, Secretary, The Granite Cutters' International Association of America, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: A delegate from the international Union of Pavers, Rammermen, Flag Layers, Bridge and Stone Curb Setters at the Toronto Convention of the Federation introduced a resolution requesting the right of jurisdiction to be granted to that organization over Blue Stone Cutters. The matter was discussed at length upon the floor of the Convention, and the Convention directed that the entire subject should be referred to the executive officers of the stone cutting trades organizations affiliated to the A. F. of L., so that they may hold a conference and decide upon such course of action as may be deemed most advantageous to the trade in general and which will be satisfactory to all interested parties. It is with this purpose in view, therefore, that I am writing to you and also a letter similar to this to the executive officers of kindred organizations. I would suggest to you and them that a conference be held as early a date as may be mutually convenient, and agreeable. I would, therefore, be pleased to have you advise me what date would be most convenient to you.[*276*] Mr. James Duncan--2 Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.277 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #143. Mr. James H. Hatch, President, Upholsterers' International Union of North America, 145 East 53rd St., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: As you recall, during the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, you introduced a Resolution #143 in regard to the controversy between your International Union and the International Association of Car Workers. The committee to which that resolution was referred recommended, and the Convention approved, that as no conference had been held between the representatives of the respective organizations as provided by the laws of the Federation, that such a conference should be held for the purpose of adjusting the questions in controversy. I am, therefore, writing to you and to Secretary Gibson of the International Association of Car Workers to suggest that arrangements be made at as early a date as convenient and practicable for a conference to be held, so that the opportunity may be afforded of discussing the matters of difference between your organizations, and if possible, reaching some mutually satisfactory agreement. I am writing a letter similar to this to Secretary Gibson and would appreciate it if both you and he would advise me in regard thereto[*278*] Mr. James H. Hatch--2 at your early convenience. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*279*] LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #143. Mr. G. W. Gibson, Secretary, International Association of Car Workers, Room 1205 Star Building, 356 Dearborn St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution #143 of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, introduced by President Hatch of the Upholsterers' International Union, I beg to advise that, in conformity with the action of the Convention, I have just written to the President of the Upholsterers' International Union and beg to enclose to you herein duplicate copy of that letter, which you will please accept as equally addressed to you. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:[*280*] LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #128. Mr. James H. Hatch, President, Upholsterers' International Union of North America, 145 East Fifty-third St., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution #128 of the Toronto Convention, introduced by you as a delegate from the Upholsterers' International Union of North America, I beg to advise you that, in conformity with the action of the Convention, I have just written to the secretary of the Building Trades Department of The A. F. of L. and beg to enclose to you herein duplicate copy of that letter, which you will please accept as equally addressed to you. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:281 LF November 30,1909. When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #128. Mr. William J. Spencer, Secretary, Building Trades Department, A. F. of L. , Rooms 412-414 Ouray Bldg . , Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to call to your attention to the subject matter of Resolution #128 of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, introduced by the delegate from the Upholsterers' International Union of North America, and which the Convention directed should be referred to the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L. with instructions to that Department to enforce the provisions of the Federation law. The preambles and resolution are as follows: "WHEREAS, the Building Trade Councils in the cities of San Francisco, Cal., Oakland, Cal., San Jose, Cal., Sacramento, Cal., have affiliated with the unions of carpet mechanics and shade hangers; and WHEREAS, The Upholsterers' International Union of North America has complete and entire jurisdiction of carpet layers, cutters and measures, shade cutters and hangers; and WHEREAS, The carpet mechanics and shade hangers and cutters' unions affiliated with the above mentioned bodies have seceded from the Upholsterers' International Union of North America; and WHEREAS, Resolution #56 was introduced at the Denver Convention of the A. F. of L. calling for the unseating of these unions from central bodies of Building Trades, the committee to which it was referred recommended that it be referred to the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L., with instructions that Section No. 1 of Article No. 11, of the Laws of the American Federation be enforced; and WHERAS, The unions antagonistic to the Upholsterers' International Union are still seated in the Building Trades bodies and have within this present year formed themselves into a dual National Union for the purpose of antagonizing the legitimate union affiliated with the A. F. of L. : be it RESOLVED, That the Executive council of the American Federation of Labor insist that the officers of the Building Trades Department of282 Mr. Wm. J. Spencer---2 the American Federation of Labor be required to take immediate action for the purpose of compelling the local Building Trades Departments in the above mentioned cities to unseat the unions of carpet mechanics and shade hangers and cutters not affiliated with the Upholsterers' International Union of North America." I trust that the above matter will be given early consideration by your Department, and that you will advise me in regard thereto. I am writing to president Hatch of the Upholsterers' International Union by this mail, advising him of the action taken in this matter. With kind regards I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.283 LF November 30, 1909. When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #65. Mr. Wm. F. Kramer, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Suite 570-585 Monon Building, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In conformity with the action taken by the Toronto Convention on Resolution #65, introduced by the delegates from your Brotherhood, I have just written to the Secretary of the Metal Trades Department of the A. F. of L., transmitting to him copy of the preambles and resolutions and requesting that it be given the prompt attention of his Department. He will communicate with you direct in regard thereto. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.284 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter, kindly refer to Resolution #65. Mr. A. J. Berres, Secretary, Metal Trades Department, A.F. of L., Room 513 Ouray Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: There was introduced at the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor a resolution #65, by the delegates from the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths. That resolution is as follows: "WHEREAS, The International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths and Helpers, affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, which charter of affiliation was granted in the year 1890, has jurisdiction over all the men employed in the blacksmith trade; and WHEREAS, There are some other organizations admitting to membership blacksmiths and helpers in violation of the recognized and admitted jurisdiction of the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths and Helpers, which is injurious to the welfare and progress of the men engaged in the blacksmith trade, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the Twenty-ninth Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, that the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths and Helpers is the only organization having jurisdiction over Blacksmiths and Helpers, and recommend to the men engaged in the trade to affiliate themselves with their fellow-craftsmen by becoming members of the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths and Helpers; and be it further RESOLVED, That the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor notify all General and Special Organizers of the Federation to organize the men in the blacksmith trade into the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths and Helpers; be it further RESOLVED, That the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor shall cause to be stricken out of the books of instructions to organizers the word "Blacksmith" or "Helper" wherever it appears, except under the jurisdiction of the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths and Helpers."285 Mr. A. J. Berres--2 The committee to which the above was referred recommended, and the Convention approved, that the above matter should be referred to the Metal Trades Department of the Federation, with the understanding that all trade organizations that may be affected by the action contemplated must be called into conference and be part of the meeting which takes final action on this matter. You will please accept this letter as final notification of the action of the Convention in this case. I trust that it may receive the early attention of your Department. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.286 LF November 30,1909 When replying to this letter, kindly refer to Resolution #137. Mr. L.W. Quick, Secretary, Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Star Building, St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution #137 of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, introduced by two delegates from the order of Railroad Telegraphers, I beg to advise you that, in conformity with the action of the Convention, I have just written to the President of the Railroad Employes Department of the A.F. of L. and beg to enclose to you herein duplicate copy of that letter, which you will please accept as equally addressed to you. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers President American Federation of Labor Enclosure: 287 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #137. Mr. H. B. Perham, President, Railroad Employes Department, A. F. of L., Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to call your attention to the subject matter of Resolution #137 of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, introduced by the delegate from the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, and which the Convention directed should be referred to the Railroad Employes Department of the A. F. of L. with instructions to that Department to consider the same. The preambles and resolutions are as follows: "WHEREAS, There are more than [?], 600,000 persons employed upon the railroads of North America, of which less than 500,000 are organized; and WHEREAS, It is essential to the best interests of all concerned that this vast army be brought into the folds of unionism; and WHEREAS, There was organized at the Denver Convention of the A. F. of L., a Railroad Employes' Department, thereby causing a great awakening among the railroad employes of the country and a great desire to be organized; and WHEREAS, Charters have been issued to many of the large railroads for system federations, and no general plan having been devised for the proper execution of the work of organizing; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Convention urge upon the Railroad Employes' Department, the immediate employment of organizers by the system federations established from time to time on the various railroads; and be it further RESOLVED, That this Convention recommend the employment of each organizer on a commission basis at a rate of not less than two dollars ($2.00) per capita for new members and twenty-five cents (25) per capita for transfers."288 Mr. H. B. Perham--2 I trust that the above matter will be given early consideration by your Department, and that you will advise me in regard thereto. I am writing to Secretary Quick of the Order of Railroad Telegraphers by this mail, advising him of the action taken in this matter. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.289 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter, kindly refer to Resolution #58. Mr. Edward I. Hannah, Secretary, International Union of Pavers, Rammermen, Flag Layers, Bridge and Stone Curb Setters, 249 E 57th St., New York N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: At the Toronto Convention of the Federation, the delegate from your International Union submitted a resolution, requesting the Convention to give its consent to your International Union accepting and organizing the Blue Stone Cutters within its ranks. The Matter was discussed at length upon the floor of the Convention and it was directed that the entire subject should be referred to the executive officers of the various stone cutting trades organizations, in order that a conference may be held between them, so as to afford the opportunity of giving consideration to this entire subject matter and deciding upon such source of action as may be satisfactory to all interested parties. Therefore, in conformity with this action of the Toronto Convention, I am now communicating with the executive officers of the various Stone Cutting Trades organizations affiliated to the A. F. of L., to the end that the spirit and purpose of the Convention, in this matter, may be fully carried out.290 Mr. Edward I. Hannah--2 I will endeavor to write you further in regard to this matter as soon as I am in a position to give you any definite information. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. P.S. I have sent similar letter to this to the following gentlemen: James F. McHugh, Sec. Journeymen Stonecutters' Association of North America; P. F. McCarthy, Sec. Quarryworkers' International Union of North America; Stephen C. [?]ogan, Sec., International Association of Marble Workers; and James Duncan, Sec. The Granite Cutters' International Association of America.291 LF December 1, 1909 No. 83. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: At the last meeting of the Executive Council, it was decided that the members of the E. C. residing in Washington should arrange for a tentative route for three groups of the Executive Council in a lecturing trip to and from the Pacific Coast, and to hold meetings of the E. C. at Portland and Seattle and other cities on the coast. After the adoption of the motion, I asked the members of the E. C. to advise me of some of the principal points particularly affecting their trade, which each would like to visit. The purpose of my writing now is to remind the members of the Executive Council to write me upon this subject at the earliest possible moment. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.292 X. Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary, San Francisco Labor Council, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Your telegram of the 27th instant reached me on Sunday the 28th. I was in conference, and on yesterday, the 29th, I was in court. Early in the evening I gave your telegram immediate consideration and answer. For convenience I repeat your telegram: "San Francisco, Cal. Nov. 27, 09. Samuel Gompers, 819 G St., N. W., Washington, D. C. On behalf Newspaper Solicitors, I gain request immediate ruling on publishers protest. Delay dangerous to Unions welfare. Wire definite reply. (Signed) ANDREW J. GALLAGHER." To that I replied as follows: "Washington, D. C., Nov. 29, 09. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary, San Francisco Labor Council, San Francisco, Cal. Executive Council has taken no action publishers protest on charter. (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS." You now send me the following telegram: "San Francisco, Cal., Nov. 30, 09. Samuel Gompers, 809 G St. N. W., Washington, D. C. Unless definite reply as to newspaper solicitors charter is received by December third executive committee of Council will recommend definite action to Council on solicitors complaint. (Signed) ANDREW J. GALLAGHER."293 Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher: ---2--- To that I have just sent you the following telegram: "Washington, D. C., Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Cal. Yesterday I sent you the following telegram: 'Executive Council has taken no action publishers protest on charter.' That is clear and definite. I do not understand purpose of threat. Letter follows. (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS." As I stated, It is difficult for me to see where my answer is indefinite, or what about it should induce you to state that unless a definite reply is received by December third, recommendation will be made definitely as to [what] action by the Council on "Solicitors complaint". The Newspaper Publishers Association protested against the charters being retained by the Newspaper Solicitors Union. Another protest was regarding a proposed boycott which was to be levied against the San Francisco Call. Upon the latter, by direction of the Executive Council, I telegraphed you from Toronto as follows: "Toronto, Canada, Nov. 21, 1909. Andrew J. Gallagher, Secretary Labor Council, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Cal. Your telegram, as well as letters and other telegram received relating to dispute between the Newspaper Solicitors and Newspaper Carriers Unions and the San Francisco Call. The Executive Council decided that declaring a firm unfair in effect is similar to the declaration of a strike; therefore, no firm or its product should be declared unfair by a local trade union directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor until application has been made and approved by the Executive Council. The substance of this telegram was also telegraphed to the secretaries of the two unions interested. (Signed SAMUEL GOMPERS." Upon the question of the protest of the Newspaper Publishers' Association regarding the Solicitors Union charter, the matter was read to the Executive Council and action thereon deferred, so that as a matter of fact it is clearly understandable that that294 Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher --3-- action as well as my telegram to you of Monday, was as definite as it was possible to be. I can only urge calm, deliberate dignified action, that will not only attain the very best results for all concerned, but that will cast no reproach upon the good name of our cause and our movement. We may not be able to attain our highest aims at once. Let us not pursue a course which will have the slightest semblance of division in our ranks, which may cost us the loss of better results. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you soon and often, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.295 M November 30, 1909. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO THIS RESOLUTION #69. Sir: By instruction of the 29th annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909, I beg to call your attention to Resolution #69 of that Convention, which reads as follows: "BE IT RESOLVED, By the American Federation of Labor in Convention assembled: That we as a body indorse the deep water way projects throughout the country, and we heartily recommend to Congress that money be appropriated for the purpose of carrying on construction of waterways in different parts of the United States: and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the President of the United States, President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Chairman of the Rivers and Harbors Committee, Washington, D. C." The hope is entertained that the subject matter of the above may be given your sympathetic consideration and action. I have the honor to remain, Very respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Hon. William H. Taft, President of the United States, Washington, D. C.296 M November 30, 1909. When replying to this letter kindly refer to this resolution #69. Sir: By instruction of the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909, I beg to call your attention to Resolution #69 of that Convention, which reads as follows: "BE IT RESOLVED, By the American Federation of Labor in Convention assembled: That we as a body indorse the deep water way projects throughout the country, and we heartily recommend to Congress that money be appropriated for the purpose of carrying on construction of waterways in different parts of the United States: and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the President of the United States, President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Chairman of the Rivers and Harbors Committee, Washington, D. C." The hope is entertained that the subject matter of the above may be given your sympathetic consideration and action, I have the honor to remain, Very Respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Hon. Joseph G. Cannon, Speaker House of Representatives, Washington, D. C.297 M November 30, 1909. When replying to this letter kindly refer to this resolution #69. Sir: By instruction of the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909, I beg to call to your attention Resolution #69, of that Convention, which reads as follows: "BE IT RESOLVED, By the American Federation of Labor in Convention assembled: That we as a body indorse the deep water way projects throughout the country, and we heartily recommend to Congress that money be appropriated for the purpose of carrying on construction of waterways in different parts of the United States: and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the President of the United States, President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Chairman of the Rivers and Harbors Committee, Washington, D. C." The hope is entertained that the subject matter of the above may be given your sympathetic consideration and action. I have the honor to remain, Very respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Hon. James S. Sherman, President of the United States Senate, Washington, D. C.298 M November 30, 1909. In reply kindly refer to the Resolution #69. Sir: By instruction of the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909, I beg to call your attention to Resolution #69 of that Convention, which reads as follows: "BE IT RESOLVED, By the American Federation of Labor in Convention assembled; That we as a body indorse the deep water way projects throughout the country, and we heartily recommend to Congress that money be appropriated for the purpose of carrying on construction of waterways in different parts of the United States; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the President of the United States, President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Chairman of the Rivers and Harbors Committee, Washington, D. C. The hope is entertained that the subject matter of the above may be given your sympathetic Consideration and action. I have the honor to remain Very respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Hon. De Alva S. Alexander, Chairman, Rivers and Harbors Committee, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C.299 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #67. Sir: The recent Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, directed that there should be transmitted to you and to Secretary Nagel, a copy of preambles and resolutions #67 of that Convention. In conformity therewith I have just written to Secretary Nagel and enclose to you herein a duplicate copy of that letter, which I ask that you kindly accept as equally addressed to you. At your convenience I would appreciate an expression from you upon the subject treated in preambles and resolutions #67. Very respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Attest: Secretary. Hon. Charles P. Neill, Commissioner of Labor, Washington,D. C.300 LF November 30, 1909 When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #67. Sir: I have the honor to transmit to you herewith copy of preambles and resolutions #67 submitted to and approved by the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held in Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909. They are as follows: "WHEREAS, The Congress of the United States has authorized an appropriation for a national investigation into the condition of women and children in the industries of our country; and WHEREAS, The Federal Supreme Court and the Supreme Courts of twenty-seven States have established the legality of limiting the hours of women's labor, and have decided as constitutional the principle of protective legislation for working women; and WHEREAS, The rapid increase of women workers in the factories, mills and shops of the nation is fraught with industrial and social consequences of the utmost importance to the national welfare; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the American Federation of Labor in Convention assembled respectfully asks the Hon. Charles Nagel, Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Labor, and the Hon. Charles P. Neill, Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor, to create in said Bureau of Labor a specific department for the investigation, and report from time to time upon the condition of working women in the United States, with special reference to protective legislation directed to the preservation of the health, safety and morals of the motherhood of our people; and be it further RESOLVED, That we respectively urge upon said Secretary and Commissioner the wisdom, propriety and justice of appointing a woman as the head of such department; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of these resolutions, signed by the President and Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, and bearing the official seal, be mailed to the Hon. Charles Nagel, Secretary of Commerce and Labor, and the Hon, Charles P. Neill, Labor Commissioner of the United States."301 Hon. Charles Nagel--3 The hope is entertained that the above matter will receive your careful consideration and commend itself for your favorable action. Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Attest: Secretary. Hon. Charles Nagel, Secretary, Department of Commerce and Labor, Washington, D. C.302 Z Dec. 1, 1909. In replying kindly refer to Resolution No. 92. Mr. Frank Zeitz, Secretary, United Trades and Labor Council, 255 Genesee St., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Among other matters receiving the consideration of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. was Resolution No. 92, introduced by the delegates from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners. The resolution reads as follows: "WHEREAS, The business of the United Trades and Labor Council of Buffalo, N. Y., has not been conducted in accordance with the laws of the A. F. of L. and, WHEREAS, Independent local organizations have been admitted to membership in violation of Article XI, Sec. 1, of the laws of the A. F. of L., and are still retained therein; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That a member of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. be sent to Buffalo, N. Y., within thirty days from date of adjournment of this convention for the purpose of reorganizing the United Trades and Labor Council of that city in accordance with the laws of the A. F. of L.; and be it further RESOLVED, That President [Kirby?] of the Building Trades Department be requested to visit Buffalo as soon as possible for the purpose of reorganizing the Local Building Trades Department of that city in accordance with the laws of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L. The committee to which the above matter was referred recommended, and the convention approved, the following:303 Mr. Frank Zeitz. --2-- "Your committee recommends that if the United Trades and Labor Council of Buffalo, N. Y., and the local Building Trades Department of that city do not comply with the laws of the American Federation of Labor and the Building Trades Department thereof within thirty days, by unseating all ineligible trades and seating all eligible trades, a representative of the American Federation of Labor and a representative of the Building Trades Department, proceed to Buffalo, and if necessary recommend to the A. F. of L. and the B. T. D. that said charters be revoked, and immediately reorganize the Trades and Labor Council and the local Building Trades Department, in accordance with the laws of the A. F. of L. and the Building Trades Department thereof." I am writing this to officially advise you of the action of the convention in this matter and to request that you write me within the thirty days limit, as set by the convention, as to what has been done by your United Trades and Labor Council and the local Building Trades Department of your city to conform to the declaration and decision of the convention. I desire to say further that I am writing a letter similar to this to the executive officers of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L.. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.304 Dec. 1, 1909 In replying kindly refer to Resolution No. 55. Mr. B. F. Kindred, Secretary, Tri-City Labor Congress, Box 264, Rock Island, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: At the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. the delegate from the Tri-City Labor Congress introduced preambles and resolution # 55. The committee to which the subject matter of these preambles and resolution was referred recommended to the convention and the convention concurred in the recommendation that they should be adopted when amended to read as follows: "WHEREAS, The Ordinance Officers in charge of the Rock Island Arsenal, are doing all in their power to reduce wages and establish the piece work system among the workers employed in the shops and factories at that arsenal; and WHEREAS, we believe that this reduction of wages, establishment of the piece work system, and by the employment of boys under sixteen years of age, by these officers, are detrimental to organized labor now in the Government employ at this arsenal and in other places where the Government are employing mechanics and laborers; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the President of the American Federation of Labor request the Legislative Committee of the American Federation of Labor to meet the Committee of the Federated Arsenal Employees about the 10th of December, 1909, in Washington, D. C., to lay this matter before the proper Ordinance Officers, with a view of a settlement favorable to the employees of this arsenal." The object of my writing to you is to give you official305 Mr. B. F. Kindred---2-- advice as to the action of the convention in this matter and to ask that you request the representatives of the federated arsenal employees to communicate with me in regard to the above matter so that action may be taken in conformity with the intent, spirit and purpose of the convention. Trusting that I may hear from you at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.306 Z Dec. 1, 1909. In replying kindly refer to Resolution #92. Mr. William J. Spencer, Secretary-Treasurer, Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L., Rooms 412-14, Ouray Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution No. 92 of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., in regard to the trouble in Buffalo, N. Y., between the local Building Trades section of that city and the United Trades and Labor Council, I beg to enclose to you herein duplicate copy of a letter which I have just written to the Secretary of the Central Body and which I ask you to kindly accept as equally addressed to you and a part of this communication. Asking you to let me hear from you at your early convenience in regard to the above matter and sincerely trusting that an adjustment will be reached with the time prescribed by the Toronto Convention, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.307 X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: I just had a talk with Mr. Ralston, one of our attorneys, and inquired whether it would be necessary for you, Mr. Morrison, and myself to be in Washington on Monday, December sixth. He feels confident that the Supreme Court of the United States will grant the writ of certiorari, and of course, in that event, there would be no necessity for our presence in Washington; but, on the other hand, should the Court deny the writ, we must be within the jurisdiction of the court, surrender, and then application be made for a writ of habeas corpus. The reason of my inquiry to Mr. Ralston was because of the engagement I have to preside over and address a mass meeting at Cooper Union for the organization of the Seamen of the Atlantic Coast, and I wanted to be absolutely sure in my mind as to whether I could keep that engagement. I write to you of these things simply as a reminder that you will carry out your declared intention of being in Washington on Monday morning, December sixth. With best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.308 Form 1545. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,00 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filled Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Washington, D. C., Dec. 1, 1909. To Mr. George L. Berry, Lyric Theater Bldg., Rms. 802-7, Cincinnati, Ohio. The Toronto Convention directed me to institute investigation regarding controversy Elevator Constructors - Machinists of Chicago. Have appointed you, President Alpine of the Plumbers, President Kline of the Blacksmiths to meet in Chicago, Briggs House, ten o'clock Monday morning, December sixth. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. Form 1545. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,00 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filled Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Washington, D. C., Dec. 1, 1909. To Mr. Jos. W. Kline, 324 Dearborn St., Chicago, Ill. The Toronto Convention directed me institute investigation regarding controversy Elevator Constructors - Machinists of Chicago. Have appointed you, President Alpine of the Plumbers, President Berry of the Printing Pressmen to meet in Chicago, Briggs House, ten o'clock Monday morning, December sixth. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.309 Form 1545 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,00 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filled Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Washington, D. C., Dec. 1, 1909. To Mr. John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. The Toronto Convention directed me institute investigation regarding controversy Elevator Constructors - Machinists of Chicago. Have appointed you, President Kline of the Blacksmiths, President Berry of the Printing Pressmen to meet in Chicago, Briggs House, ten o' clock Monday morning, December sixth. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. Form 1545 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,00 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filled Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Washington, D. C., Dec. 1, 1909. To Mr. J. L. Kirby, President Building Trades Dep't., Briggs House Chicago, Ill. Have appointed PresidentsAlpine of the Plumbers, Berry of the Printing Pressmen, Kline of the Blacksmiths as committee investigate Elevator Constructors controversy in Chicago. Have directed them to meet Briggs House, ten o'clock Monday morning, December sixth. SAMUEL GOMPERS. President, American Federation of Labor. Charge A. F. of L.310 X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. James O'Connell, President, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring further to the controversy in Chicago between the Elevator Constructors and the Machinists, which the Toronto Convention of the Federation directed I should cause to be investigated, I beg to say that I have appointed President Alpine of the Plumbers, President Kline of the Blacksmiths, and President Berry of the Printing Pressmen, as a committee to make this investigation, and have directed them to meet at the Briggs House, Chicago, at ten o'clock Monday morning, December sixth. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.311 X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. William Young, Secretary, International Union of Elevator Constructors, 1952 North 19th St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring further to the controversy in Chicago between the Elevator Constructors and the Machinists, which the Toronto Convention of the Federation directed I should cause to be investigated, I beg to say that I have appointed President Alpine of the Plumbers, President Kline of the Blacksmiths, and President Berry of the Printing Pressmen, as a committee to make this investigation, and have directed them to meet at the Briggs House Chicago, at ten o'clock Monday morning, December sixth. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.312 X. Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Octave Festy, 25 rue Jacque, Neuilly sur Seine, France. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 11th has been received and contents noted. I regret it but I can only make the suggestion to you that I did in my letter to Mr. Keufer, and that is that you endeavor to place the articles you write upon the French labor movement with the labor press of the United States. I enclose herein a list of the labor press and official trade journals. Of course, I cannot give you any assurances whether any of these publications would be able to use your articles but in any event you might correspond and inquire. I doubt very much, however, if any of them could use any matter written in French. It would be better, therefore, that you should write English or have your articles translated into English after they are written. Of course, if the articles you would write are suitable, I would publish them in the American Federationist and of course pay a proportionate share for the articles. It would be necessary, however, to have the articles translated into English before you send them to America. Let me say, too, that there is no reason why you could not assume a literary name other than your own, and thereby preserve your incognito. I would therefore suggest that in your313 Mr. Octave Festy --2-- future correspondence with me you write your name, but on the article write the name you will assume. Kindly convey my regards to Mr. Keufer. Reciprocating your kind regards, in which Mr. Sullivan, who is now here, joins, and hoping to hear from you further, I am, Yours very sincerely, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.314 M December 2, 1909. No. 84. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: About two years ago I saw in a Chicago paper a statement published that Miss Jean Gordon of New Orleans, had made a speech in which she denounced the American Federation of Labor, charging it and our men with blocking and thwarting legislation for the protection of women and children. I immediately wrote a letter to the Chicago Daily News repeating the statement in so far at least as it affected the American Federation of Labor, and stated that I would have an investigation made in regard to the conditions in New Orleans. I wrote to the Central Labor Union asking them for an admission, denial or explanation of Miss Gordon's charge in so far as it affected the New Orleans Central body or the Louisiana State Federation of Labor. I received a reply signed by Robert E. Lee, Secretary of the Trades and Labor Council. Voluntarily a report has now come to me under date of November 12, 1909, authorized and directed by the New Orleans Central Trades and Labor Council, in which this entire subject matter is covered, and because of its importance and of the value of the information contained therein I have had copies thereof made and enclose315 E. C. 2. same to you herein. Your attention is respectfully called to it. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.316 M December 2, 1909. Mr. George C. Rodine, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, 514 Dumaine St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: I want to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 19, in which by direction of the Central Trades and Labor Council, you enclose copy of the report of the Committee appointed by the Council, to investigate the report of the charges made by Miss Jean Gordon of New Orleans in a speech which she delivered in Chicago, in which she charged the Trades and Labor Council and the Louisiana State Federation of Labor in blocking and thwarting legislation in favor of women and children. You will be interested in knowing that I am sending a copy of this report to the members of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. for their information. At the same time I want to express my appreciation of the full and comprehensive report made upon the subject. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*317*] M December 2, 1909. Mr. C. Legien, Secretary, National Centers of Trade Unions, S. 0. 16, Engel Ufer 15, Berlin, Germany. Dear Sir and Brother: The photographer in Toronto who took the group picture of the delegates to the Toronto Convention will send one to you. You will please accept this with the compliments of the Federation. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.318 M December 2, 1909. Panoramic Camera Company of Canada, 127 Sherbourne St., Toronto, Can. Gentlemen: I am writing to request that you kindly send one of the large group pictures of the delegates to the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. which were taken by you to the following address: "C. Legien, S. 0. 16, Engel Ufer 15, Berlin, Germany." I would like you to put on this picture "Compliments of the A. F. of L." and send bill to this office. Thanking you in advance for your prompt attention to the above, I am, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*319*] M December 2, 1909. Mr. Santiago Iglesias, San Juan, P. R. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to our recent interview with the President, and his promise to give me a copy of his address which he delivered in Chicago last September, I beg to say that I now have the copy he promised, and enclose a copy of it to you herein. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.320 M December 2, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: As you will recall during our recent interview with the President he promised to let me have copy of the address which he delivered in Chicago last September. He has fulfilled his promise, and in compliance with my promise to you to send you a copy as soon as received, you will please find it enclosed herein. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.321 R Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. Lew Morton, Secretary, Actors' International Union, No. 8 Union Square, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In as much as I desire to publish in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST a list giving the dates when and cities where the annual conventions of the International Unions will be held during the coming year, I would be obliged if you would kindly fill out the attached blank and return it to this office. Thanking you in advance for your prompt compliance, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Name of organization_______ Date of next annual convention_______ City where convention will be held_______ Copy of this letter sent to all International Unions.322 M December 2, 1909. Mr. Abraham Rosenberg, President, International Ladies' Garment Workers Union, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Sometime during this Toronto Convention you mentioned to me the subject matter of a very sweeping injunction which had been recently issued, I think in your city. In any event I am writing to inquire if you can furnish me copy of that injunction, as I am particularly anxious to see it. Thanking you in advance for your prompt compliance with the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.323 M December 2, 1909. Mr. E. Jackson Snyder, Paperhangers Organizations, 232 West 120th St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the last instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that my going to Cincinnati to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters depends upon the decision of the Supreme Court of the United States upon our application for writ of certiorari. It is expected that the court will hand down its decision next Monday. If it is granted the carrying out of the sentences will depend upon the Supreme Court's decision on the writ. If the court will sustain our contention of course that will mean that the case will in all likelihood be dropped. If it does not sustain us, why then it means the sentences begin the day the decision is rendered and then, of course, must begin in greater earnestness and concentration of effort the movement to secure Congressional action. If it is possible for me to go to Cincinnati I shall certainly do so, but as you understand from the above it all depends upon the decision of the court. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President A. F. of L.321 Z Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. J. Havelook Wilson, 52 Charles St. New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In connection with my engagement to preside over the meeting at Cooper Union, New York City, on Monday evening, December 6th, and also to deliver an address, I thought it advisable to write you that our application for the writ of certiorari has been made to the Supreme Court of the United States and it is expected that it will hand down its decision on next Monday. While we believe the court will grant it, yet on the other hand, should our application be denied we must be within the jurisdiction of the court and in that event of course it will be impossible for me to keep my engagement with you. Then again, should the Court decide in our favor and the decision be given in time for me to get an afternoon train which will put me in New York by 8 o'clock in time to reach Cooper Union and fulfill my engagement. I shall certainly be there. I am writing you this so that you may be fully informed as to the exact situation and will understand that if it is325 Mr. J. Havelock Wilson---2--- physically possible I shall be present at the meeting in conformity with my promise. In any event my earnest wish is that the meeting at Cooper Union may be an entire success and that the Seamen will thoroughly organize for the protection and promotion of their rights and interests. On Monday, when the Supreme Court shall have rendered its decision either granting or denying the writ, I shall send you a telegram stating whether I can be at the Cooper Union meeting or otherwise. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.326 LF December 2, 1909 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #67. Miss Agnes Nestor, Secretary, International Glove Workers' Union of America, Room 506 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Madam: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution #67 of the Toronto Convention, introduced by you as delegate from the International Glove Workers' Union of America, I beg to advise you that, in conformity with the direction of the Convention, I have transmitted copy of Resolution #67 to the Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Labor and to the Commissioner of Labor of the United States. I shall advise you as to what replies are made to my communications. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. America Federation of Labor.327 M December 2, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Chairman, Industrial Education Committee, A.F. of L., 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: As you doubtless recall at the meeting of the Industrial Education Committee in Toronto on Saturday, November 19, it was decided that you, Secretary Morrison and I should act as a sub-committee to wait upon the Commissioner of Labor and the Secretary of Commerce and Labor with the object in view of getting them to make an investigation as to how industrial education is promoted and conducted. I am, therefore, writing to you and Secretary Morrison to inquire as to the time it would be most agreeable and convenient for you to carry out the instructions of the Committee as above indicated. It might not be amiss for me to say here, provided I am permitted by the court, it will be necessary for me to visit the Convention of the Painters in Cincinnati, the latter part of next week, and keep an engagement of long standing in Troy on the 12th, and to attend a conference of the Presidents of national and international unions which in conformity with the direction of the Toronto Convention has been called to meet in Pittsburg on December 13. I would ask you, therefore, to kindly have these matters in mind when considering the328 J. M. 2. above . Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President AmericanFederation of Labor. [*I am writing similarly to Mr. Morrison. S. G.*]329 M December 8, 1909. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: As you doubtless recall at the meeting of the Industrial Education Committee in Toronto on Saturday, November 19, it was decided that you, Vice-President Mitchell and I should set as a sub-Committee to wait upon the Commissioner of Labor and the Secretary of Commerce and Labor with the object in view of getting them to make an investigation as to how industrial education is promoted and conducted. I am, therefore, writing to you and Mr. Mitchell to inquire as to the time it would be most agreeable and convenient for you to carry out the instructions of the Committee as above indicated. It might not be amiss for me to say here, provided I am permitted by the court, it will be necessary for me to visit the Convention of the Painters in Cincinnati, the latter part of next week, and keep an engagement of long standing in Troy on the 12th, and to attend a conference of the Presidents of the National and International unions which in conformity with the direction of the Toronto Convention has been called to meet in Pittsburg on December 13. I would ask you, therefore, to kindly have these matters in mind when considering330 F. M. 2. the above. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*I am writing similarly to Mr. Mitchell. S.G*]331 LF December 2, 1909. When replying kindly refer to Resolution #92. Mr. William D. Huber, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution #92 of the Toronto Convention of the Federation, introduced by the delegates from your Brotherhood in regard to the controversy in Buffalo, N.Y. between the United Trades and Labor Council and the Building Trades Council of that city, I beg to advise you that, in conformity with the action of the Convention, I have communicated with the Secretary of the United Trades and Labor Council, as well as the Secretary of the Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor, officially advising them of the action of the Convention upon this matter and requesting them to inform me within the time limit set by the Convention, that is, 30 days from its adjournment as to whether the matters in controversy have been adjusted or otherwise, that a representative of the Federation and a representative of the Building Trades Department should be appointed to proceed to Buffalo in the interests of adjusting the matter in conformity with the action of the Convention. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President. A.F. of L. [*332*] LF December 2,1909 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #69. Mr. J. J. O'Connor, President , International Longshoremen's Association, 601-4 Elks' Temple, Detroit, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution #69 of the Toronto Convention, introduced by the delegates from your Association, I beg to advise you that, in conformity with the direction of the Convention, I have transmitted copy of Resolution #69 to the President of the United States, President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Chairman of the Rivers and Harbors Committee. I shall advise you as to what replies are made to my communications. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.333 Z Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. T. V. O'Connor, President, International Longshoremen's Association, 1003-4 Mutual Life Building, Buffalo, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30th was received yesterday and contents noted. On yesterday I had a conference here at headquarters with Organizer James E. Roach, and directed him to proceed to New York City for the purpose of assisting the longshoremen of that port. Mr. Roach advised me that his boy is in the hospital in Albany, where he had gone to have an operation performed. He particularly desired to go to Albany first to visit his boy for a day or two. I agreed to this and he expects to be in New York on next Monday and hopes to meet you there. I note your reference to the seceding local of Grain Elevator Employes of Chicago and you may rest assured that if application for charter is made to the A. F. of L. by that organization you will be promptly advised. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federal of Labor.[*334*] Washington, D. C, Dec. 2, 1909. John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Illinois. Presidents Berry and Kline have accepted appointment also for time and place of meeting. You will please meet with them as best you can. Importance makes postponement impossible. Samuel Gompers.335 AH Dec 2, 1909. Mr. T. A. Wickersham, Colorado Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Enclosed herewith you will find our check for $327.50 in payment for rent of this office, $30.00 in payment for rent of the Union Label Trades Department and $30.00 in payment for rent of the Metal Trades Department. We are unable to send you check to cover rent of the Building Trades Department, owing to the fact that Mr. Spencer is out of the city. Kindly return receipt to this office and oblige. Very truly yours, - Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.336 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. Homer D. Call, Secretary-Treasurer, Amalgamated Meat Cutters & Butcher Workmen of N. A., #1101 Cortland Avenue, Syracuse, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th has been received, enclosing check for $5.00 and order for twenty copies of the report of proceedings of the Toronto Convention. These will be forwarded as soon as we receive them from the printer in the course of ten days. Receipt for the remittance is herewith enclosed, for which accept thanks. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.337 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. Otto E. Fischer, Secretary, Bakery & Confectionery Workers' International Union of A, #212 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th has been received, enclosing check for $3.75 and order for fifteen copies of the report of proceedings of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. Your order has been properly entered, and as soon as the proceedings are received from our printer, will be filled and forwarded. Receipt for the remittance is enclosed herewith. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federal of Labor. Enc'l.338 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. John J. Joyce, Secretary, International Longshoremen's Association, Mutual Life Building, Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th has been received, enclosing check for $200.00 covering per capita tax of your organization on 20,000 members for the months of October, and November, for which accept thanks and find receipt enclosed herewith. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.339 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. James McHugh, Secretary, Journeymen Stone Cutters' Association of North America, 520 East Sixth Street, N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30th has been received, enclosing check for $27.40 in payment of per capita tax on 5480 members for the month of November, for which accept thanks and find receipt enclosed herewith. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federal of Labor. Enc'l.340 AH Dec. 2,1909. Mr. George Preston, Secretary, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30th has been received, enclosing check for $243.19 covering per capita tax of your organization on 4965[8?] members for the month of October, for which accept thanks and find receipt herewith enclosed. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.341 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. Emil Doerr, Cor-Secretary, Central Labor Union, Watertown, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 28th has been received, enclosing money order for $2.50 covering dues of your Central Body to this office for August, September and October, for which accept thanks and find receipt enclosed herewith. I note that you have changed your address to #906 North Second Street. It is not necessary to record this change in your bond record. We have entered same on our list of secretaries. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.342 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Arthur A. Hay, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, #201-Union Labor Temple, Los Angeles, California. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 22nd has been received, relative to application for charter which was sent by Mr. Engle to Mr. Brinkman, secretary of the International Carriage and Wagon Workers' Union. We have this day written to Mr. Brinkman, sending him a copy of your letter with the request that he give same his attention at once. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.343 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. W. B. Roberts, Postmaster, Post Office, Toronto, Ontario. Canada. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 30th has been received, in which you enclose a sample of printed matter intended to be delivered to the delegates of the Convention of the American Federation of of Labor recently held at Toronto, but which reached that city too late for delivery. I would suggest that you refer the matter to the American Flint Glass Workers' Union, 928-32 Ohio Building, Toledo, Ohio. You will note that the wrapper of these pamphlets bear the return address of the sender. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.344 AH Dec. 2, 1909. National Surety Company, #115 Broadway, New York, N. Y. Gentlemen: Replying to your favor of November 29th, relative to application for bond of Jacob Soboski, treasurer of Boiler Maker's Union Local #251, Schenectady, New York, I beg to state, that we have sent the application to the applicant for the proper signature, and have requested him to return same to this office as early as possible, with the necessary amount of premium, when the matter will be given prompt attention. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federal of Labor.[*345*] AH Dec 2, 1908. Mr. Jacob Soboski, Treasurer, Local #251, Boiler Makers & Helpers' Union, #525 Lenox Road, Schenectady, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Our bonding agent, the National Surety Company of New York, has referred to us your application for bond, with the statement that the premium has not been received, and request is also made that the application should bear the signature. We are enclosing same to you herewith, and request that you return it to this office with the premium $6.00, and also fill out the simple form of application, herewith enclosed, then the matter will receive our attention. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor. Encl.[*346*] AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. John L. Rosser, Mt. Rainer, Maryland. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date has been received, and in compliance with your request, we have forwarded to you under separate cover package of organizing literature for distribution. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.347 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. D. Slight, Secretary Railroad Helpers & Laborers' union #12806, Scandia Hotel, Patrick St. Winnipeg, Manitoba, Can. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 7th was received here on November 11th, and in reply I beg to state that we wrote you under date of August 20th in reply to your inquiry concerning buttons. We have only two styles of button or badge, the rolled gold badge at fifty (50) cents each or $5.00 per dozen, and the celluloid button at five (5) cents each or $2.00 per hundred. If the members or Railroad Helpers & Laborers' Union #12806 desire any other style of button, I would suggest that they write to Whitehead and Hoag Company, Newark, New Jersey, and request a catalogue. We are enclosing sample of the celluloid button but do not furnish free sample of the rolled gold badge. Facsimile of the rolled gold badge is shown on the last page of our price list. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.348 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. L. H. Moore, Secretary-Treasurer, Arkansas State Federation of Labor, Box #443, Little Rock, Arkansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 23rd has been receiving, encloding twelve (12) cents in postage stamps for which we have forwarded one copy of the April 1909 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST to Mr. Jacoway. Articles and editorials bearing upon the Buck Stove and Range Company case, have appeared in twenty issues of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. History of the case will be printed shortly in pamphlet form. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.349 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. W. E. Preston, Secretary-Treasurer, Local #30, International Association of Machinists, #197 East Ninth Street, Portsmouth, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 24th has been received, and in reply I beg to state, that we have only two local unions in Roanoke, Virginia, directly affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. One is, Federal Labor Union #8037, of which Mr. W. C. Key, 536 Isle Avenue, S. E, is the secretary, and there is the Locomotive Hostlers & Helpers' Union #11894, Secretary is, Mr. N. F. Beach, #308 First Avenue, N.W. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.350 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. B. A. Larger, Secretary, United Garment Workers of America, 116-117-123 Bible House, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 18th has been received, also shipment of labels as per bill of lading of November 5th, containing one case of labels, one million in ten thousand rolls and five hundred thousand in five thousand rolls. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.351 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. F. H. Wyant, Rec-Secretary, Horse Nail Makers' Union #10953, Seymour, Connecticut. Dear Sir and Brother: You favor of November 24th has been received, enclosing check for $5.00 covering per capita tax of your organization 50 members for the month of November, for which accept thanks and find receipt enclosed herewith, together with due stamps equivalent to the amount of tax remitted. I regret that you failed to receive three copies of the agreement form for the use of the label, and we have forwarded you another set in yesterday's mail. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.352 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. John M. Love, Secretary, United Association of Journeymen Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, & Steam Fitters Helpers of U. S. & Canada. 401–406 Bush temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of a letter from O. P. Smith, Secretary of Trades Assembly of Logansport, Indiana, in which he states that at the last meeting of the Trades Assembly, communication was received from the local union of plumbers to the effect, that the plumbers were going to withdraw from the Assembly, assigning no reason for the action other than the statement that "We are going to withdraw". I would kindly ask that you communicate with your local union at your earliest opportunity and instruct that arrangements be made as early as possible to comply with the provisions of the constitution of the American Federation of Labor, by sending full quota of delegates to our Central Body. Thanking you in advance for giving this matter your attention, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.353 AH Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. P. W. McIlvaine, Cor-Secretary, United Trades and Labor Assembly, #204 East Main Street, Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 27th has been received, in which you give a list of the local unions in your city which have not affiliated with your Central Body. We have written to the International organizations at interest, requesting that they instruct their locals to become properly represented in your Central Body, in accordance with the provision of the constitution of the American Federation of Labor. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.[*354*] AH Dec. 2, 1909. United States Express Company, Washington, D.C. Gentlemen: Under date of November 9th, we shipped by your company, one package to Frank J. Weber, #318 State Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. We are in receipt of a letter from the consignee under date of November 27th, to the effect that this shipment had not been received. Kindly trace and show delivery on this shipment and oblige. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.355 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Frank Weber, Business Agent, Federated Trades Council of Milwaukee, #318 State Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 27th has been received, and in reply I beg to state, that the account book ordered by you under date of November 6th, were forwarded to you by U. S. Express on November 9th. We have this day written to the Express Company to trace this shipment. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.355 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Joseph McIlveen, Secretary, Operative Plasterers' International Assn. of U. S. & Canada, #2909 Wylie Avenue, Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of a letter from O. P. Smith, Secretary of the Trades Assembly of Logansport, Indiana, in which he states that as yet the local union of Plasterers of that city has not become re-affiliated with the Central Body. I would kindly ask that you again write to the secretary of your local union, requesting that arrangements be made as early as possible to comply with the provisions of the constitution of the American Federation of Labor, by sending full quota of delegates to our Central Body. Thanking you in advance for giving this matter your attention, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.357 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. O. P. Smith, Secretary, Trades Assembly, #409 North Street, Logansport, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th has been received, and I note your statement relative to the local union of Plasterers and Plumbers, which have not affiliated with the Central Body of Logansport, Indiana. We have this day written to the secretaries of the respective International Bodies, requesting that they instruct their locals to become properly represented in the Central Body in accordance with the laws of the American Federation of Labor. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.358 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. A. L. Studer, Secretary, Local 92, International Association of Machinists, #1413 Grand Avenue, Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 28th has been received, and in reply I beg to state, that the report of proceedings of the Toronto Convention, will not be ready for issuance before December 15th. The price is twenty-five (25) cents per copy remittance to accompany order. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.359 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. F. C. Kinney, Secretary, Local #865, United Mine Workers of America, Arnot, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th has been received, and in reply I beg to state that the address of Vice-President Mitchell, at the Toronto Convention is not yet ready for issuance. Your request has been noted, and as soon as we receive the pamphlets from our printer, we will send you three dozen copies. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.360 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith you will find application for charter for Carpenters and Joiners' Union of Hominy, Oklahoma, received at this office. You will also found our check for $10.00 herewith enclosed, transfer of charter fee. Blank form of receipt is also enclosed which you will kindly sign and return to this office. Copy of the application has been retained here for our files. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.361 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. J. L. Ikard, Decherd, Tennessee. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 27th has been received, and in compliance with your request we have forwarded to you under separate cover, some literature, which I trust will be of assistance to you in your study of the Trade Union movement. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.362 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Alfred J. Exton, Secretary, Detroit Federation of Labor, Room 7, Hilsendegen Block, Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30th has been received, and in reply I beg to state, that report of proceedings of the A. F. of L. Convention will be ready for issuance about December 15th; the price of same is twenty-five (25) cents per copy, $20.00 per hundred. One copy will be mailed free to each delegate to the convention. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary American Federation of Labor.363 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. J. J. Radican, Rec-Secretary, Local #30, United Order Box Makers & Sawyers of America, #429 St. Pauls Avenue, Jersey City, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 25th has been received, and in reply I beg to state, that the report of proceedings of the last convention will be ready for issuance about December 15th. The price of same is twenty-five (25) cents per copy. A copy, however, will be sent free to each delegate to the A. F. of L. convention. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.364 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. Robert M. Hartman, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, #618 Clinton Street, Camden, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 26th has been received, and in reply I beg to state, that application for charter for Brass Band, should be submitted to Mr. Owen Miller, secretary of the American Federation of Musicians, #3535 Pine Street, St. Louis, Mo. I note what you say relative to having spent four days in organization work in connection with the Street Car Men, for which you have not received reimbursement, but that the Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway has paid the organizer's fee. All of our International Organizations are expected to bear their own organizing expenses, as the American Federation of Labor has not sufficient funds to undertake any more work along this line than has been mapped out, and can only recognize bills for work done in accordance with instructions from this office. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.365 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. J. Rogers, Stigler, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date came duly to hand, enclosing money order for $15.40 and application for charter for carpenters and joiners' union of Stigler, Oklahoma. These workers belong under the jurisdiction of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, and the application, together with the amount of remittance, have been forwarded to the secretary, Mr. Frank Duffy, address, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.366 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. T. W. Sheehan, Secretary, Central Labor Union Port Jervis, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: Under date of October 22nd, we received check from Port Jervis, New York, for $2.50 bearing the signature of N. P. Blood. There was no letter accompanying the check, and we wrote to Mr. Blood at the time of receiving the check, asking for full information. Up to this writing, however, we have not received a reply. Kindly advise whether or not this check was from your Central Body, and the purpose for which it is intended. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.367 AH Dec. 1, 1909. Mr. T V. O'Connor, President, International Longshoremen's Association, Mutual Life Building, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 23rd has been received, and application for charter for Federal Labor Union, to which you refer was duly received at this office, and charter issued. I trust the organization will meet with success. Thanking you for your good wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.368 Y. December 2, 1909. TO THE MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: I received a letter under date of November 6th from Arthur A. Hay, from which I herewith quote a part: "On Friday night Carpenters' Union, No. 158, the largest union in the city reaffiliated with the Central Labor Council. Credit is entirely due to the work done by Organizer Fredrickson. The Building Trades Council also sent delegates but as one of them was from a non-affiliated union and according to the laws of the Central Labor Council, not eligible, the whole delegation walked out. This action was due to the efforts of Organizer Rosendahl of the Carpenters who has always opposed the Central Labor Council. He endeavored to get all the building trades unions to take similar action but failed. A majority of the building trades are now affiliated with the Central Labor Council and the prospects are bright for the remainder to do likewise." You will note that there is a disposition on the part of the Building Trades to get into the Central Labor Council of Los Angeles. I might also say that Mr. Sexton, a delegate from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, had a conference with me in regard to the Los Angeles situation, and he promised that as soon as he got back to Los Angeles he would use his influence to have all the369 building trades are eligible join the Central Labor Council, and in that way, clear up the Los Angeles situation, so that it will be possible for the work to be carried on in a satisfactory manner. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secertary, American Federation of Labor.[*370*] C December 2, 1909. Hotel Daly, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Gentlemen: We are in receipt of your favor, enclosing check for $5.00, in payment for 1--16 page advertisement in the November '09 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Enclosed find receipted bill for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.371 C December 2, 1909. Hart and Crouse Company, Utica, New York. Gentlemen: We are in receipt of your favor of November 29, enclosing check for $8.33, in payment for 1-4 page advertisement in the November '09 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federal of Labor.[*372*] C December 2, 1909. The Cleveland Twist Drill Company, Cleveland, Ohio, Gentlemen: We are in receipt of your favor, enclosing check for $12.50, in payment for 1-4 page advertisement in the November '09 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for which accept our thanks. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.373 C December 2, 1909. Mr. L. A. Sandlass, Advertising Agent, 205 City Street, Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir: We are in receipt of your favor of November 29, enclosing check for $15.94, in payment for 1–4 page advertisement in the Sept. Oct. & November, '09 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for Hunters Rye. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor.374 C December 2, 1909. Hambly Brothers #44 Lombard Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Gentlemen: We are in receipt of your favor, enclosing check for $15.00, in payment for 1–4 page advertisement in the November '09 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Enclosed find receipted bill for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor.375 C December 2, 1909 Mr. Clifford Powell, President, Tree Climbers, Pruners and Tenders Association #12807, #2[?]2 9th Street, Brooklyn, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor, enclosing money order for $.50, in payment for Traveling Cards, same having been forwarded under separate cover. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.376 C December 2, 1909. Mr. W. M. Shumaker, Secretary, Central Labor Union #129 W. Main Street, Wabash, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 28, enclosing money order for $3.34, in payment of dues for your organization for the months of June, July August and September '09. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.377 C December 2, 1909. Mr. Jas. Seat, Fin-Sec.&Treas., Trades and Labor Council, #869 Manassas Street, Memphis, Tennessee. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 25, enclosing check for $5.00, in payment in payment of dues for your organization for the months of August '09 to and including January '10. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor.378 C December 2, 1909. Mr. R. J. Doron, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 344 Harrison Street, Marquette, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 26, enclosing express order for $5.00, in payment of dues for your organization for the months of August to and including January '10. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.379 C December 2, 1909. Mr. Patrick Hannan, Treasurer, Central Labor Union, #395 Main Street, Holyoke, Massachusetts. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 29, enclosing money order in payment in payment of dues for your organization for the months of August, September and October '09. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.380 C December 2, 1909. Mr. Herman Wirth, Chairman of Trustees, Federal Labor Union, #7087, A & Spring Street, Belleville, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 29, enclosing check for $28.80, in payment of per capita tax for the months of October, November and December, '09. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.381 C December 2, 1909. Mr. Kaspar Thegen, Secretary, Flat Janitors, #12361, 115 S. Homan Avenue, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor enclosing money order for $3.50, in payment of per capita tax for the months of October and November '09: also for due cards, same having been forwarded under separate cover. Enclosed find receipt for the same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*382*] C December 2, 1909. Mr. Henry T. Strohmeyer, Treasurer, Well Drivers, #12523, Valley Stream, Long Island, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor, enclosing money order for $2,70, in payment for per capita tax for the month of November, '09; also for due cards, same having been forwarded under separate cover. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.383 C December 2, 1909. Mr. L. S. Vaughan, Secretary Highway Laborers Protective #12324, 2011 Valentine Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor, enclosing money order for $2.00, in payment of per capita tax for the month of October, '09. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.384 C December 2, 1909. Mr. C. W. Rose, Secretary, Federal Labor Union #12475, Box 233, Hawley, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor, enclosing money order for $1.80, in payment of per capita tax for the month of October '09. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.385 C December 2, 1909. Mr. Sylvester A. Baker, Secretary, Bottle, Cap, Cork and Stopper Workers, 10875, #1 Wilson Street, Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor, enclosing money order for $17.50, in payment of per capita tax for the month of November, '09. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor. 386 C December 2, 1909. Mr. Arsenio Coiro, Secretary, Rockmens Protective, #12712, 349 East 114th Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 30, enclosing check for $20.00, in payment on account of per capita tax for the November, '09. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.387 C December 2, 1909. Senorita Dolores Santana, Secretario, Womens Protective Union #12742, Resbalon, Yabucoa, Puerto Rico. Muy Senorita Mia y Hermana: Es en mi poder la estimada de V. fechada recién con la suma inclusa de $2.00, como pago del impuesto, per capita de su organizacion de 10 miembros, por el los meses de Agosto y Septiembre, '09. Incluyo à V. un recibo de la referida suma y ademàs el equivalente en sellos. Con los voto e mas sinceros por su prosperidad. Fraternalmente suyo, Frank Morrison Secretario, American Federation of Labor.[*388*] C Deciembre 2, 1909. Senor Gregorio Manuel, Fin-Secretario, Federal Labor Union, #12671, Federacion Libre, Naguabo, Puerto Rico. Muy Senor Mio y Hermano: Es en mi poder la estimada de V. fechada recien con la suma inclusa de $1.70, como pago del impuesto, per capita de su organizacion de 17 miembros, por el los mes de Agosto, '09. Incluyo a V. un recibo de la referida suma y ademas el equivalente en sellos. Con los votos mas sinceros por su prosperidad. Fraternalmente suyo, Frank Morrison Secretario, American Federation of Labor.389 C Deciembre 2, 1909. Senor Antonio Colon, Secretario, Agricola #12826, Arecibo, Hato Abajo, Puerto Rico. Muy Senor Mio y Hermano: Es en mi poder la estimada de V. fechada recien con la suma inclusa de $3.40, como pago del impuesto, per capita de su organizacion de 34 miembros, por el los mes de Noviembre, '09. Incluyo a V. un recibo de la referida suma y ademas el equivalente en sellos. Con los votos mas sinceros por su prosperidad. Fraternalmente suyo, Frank Morrison Secretario, American Federation of Labor. 390 PERSONAL Z Dec. 2, 1909 Mr. Max S. Hayes, 979 Parkwood Drive, Cleveland, Ohio. My dear Max: Your favor of November 26th at hand and contents noted. I was glad to hear from you. I, too, was disappointed at not getting a chance to talk to you at Toronto. Physically and mentally it was the convention of all that occupied my every moment. There was not even time for an hour's social session with dear friends or with even casual acquaintances. The hurry and work of the four months abroad, the immediate application in writing the reports, the convention itself, with the fluctuations between judgments, decisions, and expectations were not contributory to ease or peace of mind. You have heard of the steps taken in regard to further presentation of the case before the Supreme Court of the United States. That court has taken under consideration the application for the writ of certiorari and will, it is thought, hand down the decision Monday, December 6th, whether the writ will be granted. If it is granted the carrying our of the sentences will depend upon the Supreme Court's decision on the writ. If391 Mr. Max S. Hayes --2-- the court will sustain our contention of course that will mean that the case will in all likelihood be dropped. If it does not sustain us, why then it means the sentences begin the day the decision is rendered and then, of course, must begin in greater earnestness and concentration of effort the movement to secure Congressional action. With it all I am trying to carry out the instructions, directions and policies as enunciated by the convention as well as doing the hundred and one things that are essential in the work of the Presidency of the A. F. of L. I am writing this to give you an idea that I have not been idle and to assure you that I should have been glad to have the opportunity of a really interesting chat with you regarding Cleveland and Ohio affairs as well as affairs of the labor movement in general. I cannot help expressing to you the deep conviction that I feel that your splendid talents are devoted in a mistaken direction and that if they were properly applied they would prove of great constructive value to the progress and advancement of the interests of the workers and to you it would be the greatest mental satisfaction. I would deem any time devoted to a talk with you on these things as the best I could spend on anything, but more of this anon. Replying to your question, I would say that it is doubtful that I can be in Cleveland or vicinity within the next month. If the Supreme Court grants the writ of certiorari I can leave here Monday afternoon in time to get to a meeting in New York City at Cooper Union, ever which I am to preside and before which I am to deliver an address, a meeting for the organization392 Mr. Max S. Hayes ---3-- of the Seamen of the Atlantic Coast. I would then go from there to Cincinnati to attend the convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers. I cannot stay there for more than a day or so for I then have to go to Troy, N. Y., and on December 13th attend the conference of the International Presidents at Pittsburg in regard to the Iron, Steel and Tin Plate Workers' progress. Of course this is contingent upon what I may be permitted to do I assure you that I appreciate the kind expressions of both you and Mrs. Hayes, and the invitation which you extend. I do not know yet that one of these days I shall surprise you and take advantage of the invitation and without another word come out and settle. Seriously, I want you to convey to Mrs. Hayes my very kindest and best wishes and to ask you to accept the same for yourself. Let me hear from you often and believe me to be Sincerely and fraternally your, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.393 LF December 2, 1909. When replying to this letter kindly refer to Resolution #24. Mr. S. J. Pegg, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes, Vanol Bldg., 3900 Olive St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution #24 of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., introduced by the delegates from your International Brotherhood, I beg to advise you that, in conformity with the direction of the Convention, I have transmitted copy of Resolution #24 to the President of the United States, Speaker Cannon, Vice-president Sherman and Congressman Tawney of the Committee of Appropriations. I shall advise you as to what replies are made to my communications. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.394 LF December 2, 1909 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #160. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: By Resolution #160 of the Toronto Convention, it was directed that the Board of Arbitration of the city of New York should be notified of the re-affirmation of the former decisions of the Federation Conventions as regards to the question of jurisdiction of the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators. I am, therefore, requesting that you kindly give me the name and address of the president or secretary of the Board of Arbitration of New York City, so that I can communicate with him in regard to this matter. Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.395 LF December 2, 1909 Mr. Launcelot Packer, Cosmos Club, Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Packer: I am somewhat in doubt just where you are located at present, but presuming that any communication sent to you in care of your club, as above, will be forwarded, I am writing to inquire when you think you will be in Washington. I would like very much to have a talk with you in regard to having bills printed upon the subject matter of Employers' Liability and Workmen's Compensation Acts and consulting with you generally upon the subject. In our report to our recent Annual Convention held in Toronto, Canada, November 8–20, the Executive Council dealt with the subject at considerable length and the Convention directed that certain steps should be taken. I am, therefore, quite desirous of talking the matter over with you fully. As you can very readily understand, I am even more crowded than usual, but yet this is one of the very important matters to which I must give my attention. Trusting that I may hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Very sincerely yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*Was glad see and hear you in N. Y. S. G.*]396 LF December 2, 1909 Mr. Gifford Pinchot, Chairman, Joint Committee on Conservation, 43 Wyatt Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: At the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor held at Toronto, Canada, November 8–20, the Executive Council of the Federation, in making its annual report to the Convention, among other matters dealt with the subject of the Conservation of Natural Resources. Enclosed is a copy of the report upon this subject as submitted by the Executive Council. The Convention approved the report and directed that the Federation Conservation Committee should be continued. I am writing you to advise you officially of the action of the Federation Convention upon this matter and to say further that our Committee holds itself in readiness to cooperate with the Conservation Committee in any way within our power. I hope to hear from you at your convenience. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:397 LF December 2, 1909 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #20. Mr. George Bessinger, Secretary, Intl. Jewelry Workers' Union of America, 19 Norton St., Newark, N.J. Dear Sir and Brother: The Toronto Convention of the Federation, when considering the subject matter of Resolution #20, introduced by the delegate from your International Union, directed that the President of the American Federation of Labor should make an investigation of the complaint set forth in Resolution #20. I am, therefore, writing to advise you that I am now making this investigation and as soon as I am in a position to give you any information as to the result thereof, I will again write you. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.398 Washington, D..C., Dec. 2, 1909. F. T. Hawley, St. Paul, Minn. Telegram received. Wire me briefly cause of strike. Samuel Gompers.399 X. Dec. 2, 1909. Dr. James W. Walk, 737 Corinthian Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa. My dear Sir: Your exceedingly kind letter of Nov. 29th was duly received, and I want to assure you of my very great appreciation of your kind words and the generous sentiments you express. It is exceedingly gratifying to me to know that the news letters I wrote in connection with my recent trip abroad have so commended themselves to your favorable and grateful consideration. Others have been kind enough to write me expressing the pleasure which the perusal of these letters has given them. It has been repeatedly suggested to me that these letters should be published in book form. I am now seriously considering the matter. Should I finally determine to do so, it would afford me pleasure to send a copy of the book to you. Again expressing my appreciation of your letter, I am, Very sincerely yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. May I ask you whether you would have any objection should I find it advisable to give your letter for publication?400 M December 3, 1909. Mr. J. J. Bates, El Reno, Oklahoma. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 30, and to thank you for the very kind senti-ments you express. He has received a number of similar letters, all of which are greatly appreciated by him. As he has been so pressed with important matters in connection with the recent annual Convention of the Federation, and also in connection with the court proceedings in the contempt case, he has been prevented from making personal reply, and hence this acknowledgment to you. He will be glad to hear from you whenever convenient. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.401 M December 3, 1909. Mr. Jacob Panken, Councillor at Law, Temple Court 3–5 Beekman St., New York City. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 24, in which you enclose copy of opinion recently handed down by Magistrate Butts in a labor case. He appreciates your courtesy in bringing this matter to his attention, and will thank you for any similar matter which may come to your attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*402*] M December 3, 1909. Mr. Ulysses Schwartz, 5520 Madison Ave., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 27th has been duly received and contents noted. In reply to your request for data to be used in the preparation of your essay on "Freedom of the Press, Historically and Legally Considered," I beg to say that I am sending to you under separate cover all of the printed matter which I can spare from the records of our office in connection with the Buck's Stove and Range Company against the American Federation of Labor et al. and the resultant contempt proceedings. I fully appreciate of what value it would be to our cause if we could have all of the data bearing upon this subject printed in pamphlet form for distribution, for we receive many requests for it. However, this as you understand, would entail considerable expense, and I regret to say that we are unable at present to incur such expense. However, we expect to publish in the very near future, and by direction of the Convention held in Toronto November 8–20, a brief pamphlet containing some of the leading facts in this case. In the meantime as stated above, I am sending you such printed matter as is available, and trust it will be of assistance[*403*] U. S. 2. to you. May I ask when your essay is completed and printed that you send me a copy marked PERSONAL. If you will confer with Mr. J. J. Fitzpatrick, Room 501, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill., he will be glad to give you an opportunity of consulting a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, of which I am Editor. I published a number of editorials dealing with this subject. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.404 M December 3, 1909. Mr. F. C. Quinn, Editor, New York Ledger, 88–90 Center St., New York City. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 30, in which you enclose editorial from the Ledger of November 27. I shall certainly bring the matter to Mr. Gompers' personal attention, and thank you for your courtesy. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.405 M December 3, 1909. The Modern View, 210 Olive St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of a copy of your magazine "The Modern View," and to thank you for same. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*406*] Washington, D. C., Dec. 3, 1909. F. T. Hawley, St. Paul, Minn. With all my heart I wish you honorable adjustment or final success. Samuel Gompers, (Charge A. F. of L.)[*407*] M December 3, 1909. Mr. M. E. Stone, Jr., Publisher, Metropolitan Magazine, 3 West 29th St., New York City. Dear Sir: I have your favor of November 20th in which you call my attention to an article published in the December issue of the Metropolitan Magazine entitled "The Solution of the Poverty Problem through the Trade Unions." You say you have sent me copy of this under separate cover, but thus far it has not reached here. Kindly have copy sent me marked PERSONAL, for I would like to have the opportunity of reading the article to which you refer. Thanking you for calling the matter to my attention, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*408*] M December 3, 1909. Mr. W. J. Emery, President, Michigan Federation of Labor, 131 Congress St., East, Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th is received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that I am sending you under separate cover some of our leaflets and other printed matter which I think you will find of assistance in organizing a central body at Owosso. I certainly trust that you will be successful in this work, and would appreciate it if you would let me hear further from you in regard thereto. I thank you for your kind expressions in regard to my re-election to the presidencyof the A. F. of L., and what I have endeavored to accomplish in regard to the rights of free press and free speech. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*409*] M December 3, 1909. Mr. John Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 30th ultimo received and contents noted. Secretary Morrison has spoken to me in regard to your communication to him as to the Silk Workers of Marion, Ohio, and we have talked the matter over. I do not see how we could make any arrangement now to appoint a man. Now as to your suggestion for one of the special organizers to be sent to Marion, I regret exceedingly to say that I do not see how at present we could manage it. Every organizer has been assigned some special important work to which it is necessary to give his undivided attention for the present. We may be able later to so arrange the itinerary of one of the Federation organizers as to include Marion. A memorandum will be made of the matter, and we will endeavor to do the very best we possibly can. I regret exceedingly to write you as above, but under existing circumstances it is the best we can do. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President A. F. of L.[*410*] M December 3, 1909. Mr. S. W. Skelly, Organizer Sparta, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th is at hand, and contents noted with a great deal of interest. Now as to your suggestion for one of the special organizers be sent to Sparta, I regret exceedingly to say that I do not see how at present we could manage it. Every organizer has been assigned some special important work to which it is necessary to give his undivided attention for the present. We may be able later to so arrange the itinerary of one of the Federation organizers as to include Sparta. A memorandum will be made of the matter, and we will endeavor to do the very best we possibly can. Regretting my inability to comply with your request, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.411 Z Dec. 3, 1909. Mr. L. A. Gardner, Editor and Manager, "Kicks and Comments," Official Journal C. L. U., Warren, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 13th, addressed to me at Toronto, Canada, during the convention of the Federation was duly received but as you can very readily understand I had no opportunity what- ever to reply, owing to the work of the convention being so ab- sorbing and engrossing. I have not time now to argue with you the matter which you present. However, if you have any suggestion to make in regard to increasing the circulation of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST whereby better terms can be secured in any way for the advantage of the A. F. of L. and the publication itself I shall be glad to have you submit them to me and I assure you they will be given the very best consideration. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.411 Z Dec. 3, 1909. Mr. L. A. Gardner, Editor and Manager, “Kicks and Comments," Official Journal C. L. U., Warren, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 13th, addressed to me at Toronto, Canada, during the convention of the Federation was duly received but as you can very readily understand I had no opportunity what- ever to reply, owing to the work of the convention being so ab- sorbing and engrossing. I have not time now to argue with you the matter which you present. However, if you have any suggestion to make in regard to increasing the circulation of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST whereby better terms can be secured in any way for the advantage of the A. F. of L. and the publication itself I shall be glad to have you submit them to me and I assure you they will be given the very best consideration. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*412*] Z Dec. 3,1909. Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Referring to the matter in regard to the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST presented by Mr. L. A. Gardner of Warren, Pa., and about which you conferred with him at length during the Toronto Convention, I beg to enclose to you herein for your information duplicate copy of letter which I have just written to Mr. Gardner. Any other information upon this subject which may come to me will be promptly transmitted to you. Of course you will reciprocate. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*413*] Z Dec. 3, 1909. Mr. Frank W. Cameron, Editor, Tacoma Labor Advocate, 5432 Union Avenue, Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favors of November 6th and 9th were forwarded to me at Toronto, where I was attending the annual convention of the Federation. I did not have the opportunity then of replying as my time was wholly engrossed with the immediate work of the convention. I have read with interest your letters and the circulars you enclose. There were quite a number of editors of labor papers who were in attendance at the Toronto Convention. As to the forming of a union of labor editors it would seem to me exceedingly peculiar because there are not more than one or two of such labor editors and writers in each town and it would be an exceedingly peculiar union that could have have such a small number in any place. However, I am deeply interested in the subject of the recognition of the value of the labor papers. Let me hear from you further and often and believe me to be, with best wishes, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*414*] Z Dec. 3, 1909. Mr. M. Grant Hamilton, Organizer, 38 Lincoln Street, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 17th was handed to me in Toronto. As I told you there, your surmise must be an error for I do not believe that any official of the American Federation of Labor has said anything that would case any reflection upon your integrity. The public utterances of the officer to whom you refer must have convinced you that your inference was wrong and my assurances accurate, and, as I further told you in Toronto, I decline to accept your resignation as organizer and therefore return the commission to you herein which you placed in my hands in the city. With assurances of my high regard and best wishes for success, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*415*] LF December 3,1909 Mr. F. J. McNulty, President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers of America, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from Mr. Frank Duffy, of which the following is a copy: "Indianapolis, December 1st,1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, 801 G St. N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Special Committee appointed by and with the consent of the Twenty-ninth Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held in Toronto, Canada, last month, to adjust the difficulties existing between the Electrical Workers of the country held a meeting in the Prince George Hotel, Toronto, immediately after the close of the Convention and decided that they would meet in Springfield, Illinois on Thursday, December 9th, 1909. I would, therefore, ask you to notify the McNulty and the Reid factions so that they will be prepared to place their cases before us withous causing us much delay. I expect we will be detained in Springfield several days. Hoping you will comply with my request, and with best wishes and kindest regards, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Frank Duffy, General Secretary." Mr. Duffy is writing for the Special Committee consisting of Frank Duffy, James P. Frey and A. L. Urich, selected to adjust the dispute existing between and amalgamate the two bodies claiming to be the International Union of Electrical Workers. You will please take notice to be in attendance at the hearing before the Committee, which is to be held at Springfield, Ill.[*416*] -2- Thursday, December 9th, 1909. A similar letter to this is being transmitted to Mr. J. J. Reid. The American Federation of Labor has the right to expect that this subject shall be approached with dignity, intelligence and determination to bring about unity and harmony in the ranks of the Electrical Workers of America, and it is my sincere wish that America's toilers will not be disappointed. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*417*] LF December 3, 1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, For Electrical Workers' Special Committee, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the first instant to hand and contents noted. In compliance with your request I have just notified Mr. McNulty and Mr. Reid and for the information and the records of your Committee, I enclose copy of each letter sent. Inasmuch as you have not designated a time or address at which the Committee is to hold its meeting, before which the representatives of both sides are to appear, I would suggest that you ascertain some information upon the subject, so that both parties may be definitely advised as to the hour and place of meeting. I should be glad to undertake the notification and thus relieve you or the other members of the Committee of unnecessary burdens. Wishing you success, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. Enclosures:[*418*] LF December 3, 1909 Mr. Simon Cohen, 1422 1/2 E Fayette St., Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Baltimore Federation of Labor, in which he says that the letter I sent you was read before the meeting and that the body refused to endorse the meeting for reasons set forth by the secretary and which it is not necessary to repeat herein. The purpose of my writing is to suggest the fact that it is scarcely necessary, under these circumstances, to have the committee of your organization trouble to come to Washington. I beg to assure you, however, that I sincerely hope that your movement will be successful in protecting the rights and interests of the Cloak Makers. With best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*419*] M December 3, 1909. Mr. Fred W. Carpenter, Secretary To the President of the United States, White House, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: I want to thank you for your letter of November 30, enclosing copy of the President's address in Chicago, September 16, 1909. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*420*] M December 3, 1909. Mr. J. F. Morris, Secretary, Illinois State Federation of Labor, Pierik Bldg., Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th is at hand and contents noted. Now in regard to the matter of appointing Mr. Frank Farrington, as special organizer for Illinois, the State Federation of Labor to bear half the expenses, I beg to say that after consultation with Secretary Morrison as to the state of the Federation funds, I find that it will be impossible at present to make any additional appointments. I have before me now on my desk half dozen letters from many different points, all urging and requesting appointment of special organizers in their respective districts. I can only repeat what I said to you in my previous letter that is, we will endeavor to do the best we can under the circumstances, but at present I am unable to give you any definite promise as to what can be done in the premises. Regretting my inability to write other than as above, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*421*] M December 3, 1909. Mr. E. E. Greenawalt, President, Pennsylvania Federation of Labor, 438 Nevin St., Lancaster, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 9th in regard to appointment of special organizer for the State of Pennsylvania was duly considered by the Executive Council at one of its meetings in Toronto during the Federation Convention. At the same time there were a number of other similar applications considered, [and] that is, applications were referred to the undersigned for such action to be taken as might be warranted by the state of the Federation funds. Upon consultation with Secretary Morrison I find that at present the appointment of additional special organizers is not within our power. The state of the Federation treasury is in such a condition as not to permit the assumption at this time of additional financial obligation for this line of work. In the past few days we have received letters of similar character from other state federations of labor, and to all of which we have been compelled, although regretfully, to reply in line with this letter to you. I can only say if circumstances shape themselves differently later we will be glad to give the matter our best consideration, and do everything we can to be helpful. In the meantime I trust you have[*422*] E. E. G. 2. not lost sight of the fact that the regular staff of the salaried organizers of the A. F. of L. have devoted a great deal of time during the past two or three years to various localities throughout the State of Pennsylvania. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*423*] M December 3, 1909 Mr. J. J. McLaughlin, President, Telegraphers Legislation Board, 1516 North Dover St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 25th has been received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I doubt the wisdom of my taking any action in the matter you suggest. As to the endorsement of the candidacy of Hon. John O. Steats, I am of the opinion and have so stated when similar matters have been presented to me, that it would be better and more advisable for all such cases to be acted upon by the local and state movement. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. P. S. I enclose to you herein the three letters you enclose as per your request. S.G.[*424*] Z Dec. 3, 1909. Dr. W. H. Tolman, Director, Museum of Safety and Sanitation. 29 West 39th St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 29th has been duly received and contents noted with much interest. As to your suggestion in regard to delivering your lecture before different organizations of labor, I would suggest your taking the matter up with the secretaries of the central bodies of New York, Brooklyn, Boston, Philadelphia, Pittsburg, Erie, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago, and St. Louis. I am of the opinion that they would take up the matter with interest. The following is a list of their names and addresses: Mr. Ernest Bohm, Secretary, Central Federated Union, 210 Fifth St., New York City. Mr. J. P. Boyle, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 345 Cornelia St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Mr. Henry Abrahams, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 11 Appleton St., Boston, Mass. Mr. Charles Hope, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 44 North Fourth St., Philadelphia, Pa. Mr. J. A. Keeler, Secretary, Central Trades Council, 524 Fourth Ave., Pittsburg, Pa. Mr. Theodore Eichorn, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 234 W. 23rd St., Erie, Pa. Mr. James Farasey, Secretary, C. Fed. of Labor, 15 Wade Building, Cleveland, Ohio.[*425*] Mr. W. H. Tolman ---2--- Mr. C. E. Ackerman, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 1311 Walnut St., Cincinnati, Ohio. Mr. M. N. Nockels, Secretary, C. Fed. of Labor, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Mr. David Kreyling, Secretary, Trades and Labor Union, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, Mo. In corresponding with them of course you will refer to me. I shall be glad to co-operate with you in any way that I can. There is one thing that I should like to suggest for such consideration as you may determine as to its importance. There is so much meat in all of your lecture that it may be exceedingly difficult to determine what should be omitted, but the fact is, in order to say all that you wish to present, you speak too fast for the audience to grasp all that you say, and therefore much of the influence is lost. In my judgment it would be better if you would leave one-third unsaid and more slowly and comprehensively present the remainder. You will understand that I am not making any adverse criticism. I submit the suggestion as one who admires both your personality and your work and who aims to be helpful in a great human cause. I want to assure you of my personal appreciation of your thanks for the help which think I have rendered. It is my great desire to be helpful in every way within my power in every effort which is made for the general welfare and uplift of humanity. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*426*] X. Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. Carl Legien, Secretary, National Centers of Trade Unions, S. O. 16, Engel Ufer 15, Berlin, Germany. Dear Friend Legien: When your cablegram and letter were received at Toronto, I was so constantly and busily engaged with the affairs of the Convention, as well as the Court's decision, that I was unable to do more than send you a cablegram stating that the American Federation of Labor had decided by unanimous vote to become affiliated to the International Secretariat. This is to confirm the cablegram, and I ask you to advise me at your convenience when the financial obligations and payments begin? I should be pleased to have a formal notice from you to that effect, and also the amount due [fr?] per thousand members. If my memory serves me right, it is one and one-half marks per thousand members annually. Of this, however, I am not sure. I should also like to know when the payments are due, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. The report or letter on the American labor movement for the yearly report will be completed in a day or two, but I am not sure that I can have it ready for the mail accompanying this letter. I shall appreciate it, however, if you can hold the printing of the report back until the next mail, if it should not reach you with this.[*427*] Mr. Carl Legien --2-- The Convention at Toronto was beyond question the most important ever held in the history of the American Federation of Labor. The constructive work will, I am sure, bring fruitful and beneficial results. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you as often as you can find it convenient, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federationof Labor.[*428*] X. Dec., 2, 1909. Friend Legien: A few days ago Mrs. Gompers and Miss Hompers bought two picture books of sights and views of Washington. The large one is intended for Frau Ihrer, and smaller one for Mr. Baumeister. They were sent in your care, and it will please my folks and myself if you will present them to Frau Ihrer and Mr. Baumeister with our compliments. A splendid photograph was made of the delegates to the Toronto Convention, and as already stated in a previous letter, I have ordered a copy from the photographer to be sent by him direct to you, and which you will accept with our compliments. I think you will like it. If I get the chance I shall write you regarding Kautsky's article in the Neue Zeit. I understand that he has written a second article but I have not seen it. With best wishes to you, Mr. Sassenbach, Mr. Baumeister, and all our other friends, trusting that the New Year may be a prosperous one for you and for the cause of labor, I am, Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers.429 X. Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. James Wilson, President, Pattern Makers' League of North America, Rooms 1008-09 Second National Bank Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother, In continuation of my letter of a few days ago I desire to say that in all liklihood I may be in Cincinnati Thursday of the coming week to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers, but of course I cannot tell, and hence cannot make a positive engagement. In any event, I doubt the wisdom of arranging for a mass meeting when my visit can only be problematical or doubtful. If the Supreme Court shall decide to grant the writ of certiorari, I shall then be able to come. I think we shall know this on Monday and I will send you a telegram imme-diately upon the decision being announced. Even if the decision be favorable, that is, if the writ is granted, it would be of doubt- ful wisdom for a public mass meeting to be held, but I should be glad then to meet you and a number of our other friends on Thursday evening, December ninth, but as I say I will telegraph you on Monday. With best wishes to you and our friends, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.436 X. Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. Jos. Valentine, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: A number of friends in Cincinnati, understanding that by direction of the Toronto Convention I am to be in your city during the coming week while the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers are in session, have suggested that a mass meeting be held during my stay in Cincinnati, and that I ad- dress the same. Our friend, James Wilson, has written to [you] me on his own and in their behalf upon the subject. I have advised them what I now desire to say to you, that is, that I doubt the wisdom of arranging for a mass meeting when my visit is so uncertain. If the Supreme Court shall decide to grant the writ of certiorari, I shall then be able to come. Even if the decision be favorable, that is, if the writ be granted, it would be of doubtful wisdom for a public mass meeting to be held, but I should be glad to meet you and a number of our other friends on Thursday evening, December ninth. Your letter of a few days ago with enclosures came duly to hand, and I was glad to hear from you. With kind regards and best wishes to you, your associates,[*453*] Mr. Jos. Valentine ---2--- and our many friends, I am, With best wishes, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor[*432*] X. Dec. 3, 1909 Mr. J. W. Hays, Secretary-Treasurer, International Typographical Union, 640-50 Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: There is a matter about which I should like to consult a book publishing house for the printing of a book, and before doing so would ask you to give me a list of the names of book publishers which are entitled to and do use the union label. An early answer and compliance will greatly oblige. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 433 X. Dec. 2, 1909. Mr. W. W. Castles, Secretary, Building Trades Council, 114 1/2 West Fourth St., Pueblo, Colo. Dear Sir and Brother: Secretary Morrison has just called to my attention your note to him, written on the bottom of a letter addressed to you by Secretary Spencer of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L., under date of October 25th. The subject matter of your note being the application for the appointment of Mr. Leftwich as salaried organizer for Pueblo. In connection with this matter, your attention is called to the fact that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, at its meeting held in this city October 18-24, decided to bear the expenses of a special organizer for the State of Colo- rado for one month, provided the Colorado State Federation of Labor would continue the work for another month, and President McLenman was so advised. Secretary Morrison has just written President Mc-Lenman again requesting him to recommend to me the name of the party whom the Colorado State Federation of Labor desires should be ap-pointed to this position. As soon as we hear from Bro. McLenman, the matter will be given prompt attention by this office. Under these circumstances, therefore, it would not be possible for us to make an additional appointment in the State of Colorado. I might not be amiss to say that we have received a[*434*] Mr. W. W. Castles ---2--- number of similar applications from the executive officers of other State Federation of Labor, but owning to the state of the Federation funds we are unable to make any additional appointments. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.435 Z Dec 3, 1909. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 24th was duly received but owing to the very great pressure of other matters after my return from New York, where I went from Toronto to fulfill a number of en-gagements, I was unable to get to your letter as well as to a number of other communications until this date. It is, there- fore, now too late to take any action in regard to the meeting of the National Society for the promotion of Industrial Education in Milwaukee but no doubt the proceedings of that meeting, includ- ing the addresses will be printed and available for reference. Reciprocating your good wishes, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.436 Z Dec. 3, 1909. Mr. Robert McKee, Secretary, International Union of Steam Engineers, 606 Main St., Peoria, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November23rd has been duly received, to- gether with the copy of he International Steam Engineer for November. I [wrote] read the article to which you call my attention but I did not recognize in it "a scurrilous attack" upon the members or any member of your General Executive Board. Of the facts of the case I do not know and therefore am not able to judge. I am strongly of the opinion that what is more essential to the Engineers than breaking into the open with personalities is united effort on the part of the officers as well as in the ranks. I have not had a word of conversation with President Comerford or with anyone directly or indirectly for him or in his behalf. In fact his side of the matter in dispute has not been presented to me at all. You and Mr. Winn did place your contention before [em] me, if not entirely at least fairly fully. While there may be much in what you and Mr. Winn have said, and after reading the article to which you call my attention, I re- peat, I cannot find the "scurrilous attack" on any member of the Executive Board and I cannot help but repeat the admonition of[*437*] Mr. Robert McKee ---2--- a friend to quit your fighting and get together. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*438*] LF December 3, 1909. Mr. J. J. Reid, Box 42, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from Mr. Frank Duffy, of which the following [?] "Indianapolis, December 1st. 1909 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, 801 G St., N. W. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Special Committee appointed by and with the consent of the Twenty-ninth Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held in Toronto, Canada, last month, to adjust the difficulties existing between the Electrical Workers of the country held a meeting in the Prince George Hotel, Toronto, immediately after the close of the Convention and decided that they would meet in Springfield, Illinois on Thursday, December [?], 1909. I would, therefore, ask you to notify the McNulty and the Reid factions so that they will be prepared to place their cases before us without causing us much delay. I expect we will be detained in Springfield several days. Hoping you will comply with my request, and with best wishes and kindest regards, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Frank Duffy, General Secretary." Mr. Duffy is writing for the Special Committee consisting of Frank Duffy, James P. Frey, and A. L. Urich, elected to adjust the dispute existing between and amalgamate the two bodies claiming to be the International Union of Electrical Workers. You will please take notice to be in attendance at the hearing before the Committee, which is to be held in Springfield, Ill.439 Mr. J. J. Reid --2 Thursday, December 9th, 1909. A similar letter to this is being transmitted to Mr. F. B. McNulty. The American Federation of Labor has the right to expect that this subject shall be approached with dignity, intelligence, and determination to bring about unity and harmony in the ranks of the Electrical Workers of America, and it is my sincere wish that America's toilers will not be disappointed. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.440 AH December 3, 1909. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Angelo Gilotti is hereby duly authorized to install the officers and initiate the members of Federal Labor Union #12857 of Hazelton, Pa. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.441 LF December 3, 1909. When replying kindly refer to Resolution #24. Sir: By instruction of the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909, I beg to call your attention to Resolution #24 of that Con- vention, which reads as follows: "RESOLVED, that this Twenty-ninth Convention of the American Federation of Labor, representative of the wage-earners of the nation, views with serious concern the enormous appropriations made by Con-gress of the U. S., so much in excess of what rigid economy would require. We urge upon our Government the utmost economy of expenditure, consistent with the proper administration of the affairs of the nation, thereby lessening the taxation, and adding to the comforts of the wage-earner, the bone and sinew of the nation, and we urge that any increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administra-tion be applied to the payment of the national debt, thus lessening the burden of taxation. RESOLVED, That we urge the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to use its best efforts to promote the use of arbitration, by the nations of the earth, for the adjustment of all international questions which arise and fail of adjustment through diplomatic channels. War which forces man to kill his fellow-man, war by which the many are forced to sacrifice their lives to gratify the passions of a few is repugnant to the concepts of our civilization. We view with sincere gratification the growth of an international sentiment opposed to this barbarous method of the past, and we urge our Executive Council to use their best efforts in assisting in the development of those principles founded upon man's duty to his fellow-man, which must eventually make wars impossible through the application of the spirit and methods of arbitration and conciliation; RESOLVED, That this, the Twenty-ninth Convention of the American Federation of Labor, views with deep concern the enormous appropriations made by the Congress of the United States, so much in excess of what rigid economy would require; we urge upon our Government the utmost economy of expenditure, consistent with the proper administrations of the affairs of the nations, thereby lessening the taxation and adding to the comfort of the wage-earner.442 --2-- We further urge that any increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administration be applied to the payment of the national debt: RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be sent to the President of the United States, the presiding officers of the Senate and Congress, and to Chairman Tawney of the Committee of Appropriations." Trusting that this matter will receive your careful and favorable consideration, I have the honor to remain, Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Hon. James S. Sherman President of the United States Senate, Washington, D. C.443 LF December 3, 1909. When replying kindly refer to Resolution #24. Sir: By instruction of the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909, I beg to call your attention to Resolution #24 of that Con- vention, which reads as follows: "RESOLVED, That this Twenty-ninth Convention of the American Federation of Labor, representative of the wage-earners of the nation, views with serious concern the enormous appropriations made by Con- gress of the U. S., so much in excess of what rigid economy would require. We urge upon our Government the utmost economy of expenditure, consistent with the proper administration of the affairs of the nation, thereby lessening the taxation, and adding to the comforts of the wage-earner, the bone and sinew of the nation, and we urge that any increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administra-tion be applied to the payment of the national debt, thus lessening the burden of taxation. RESOLVED, That we urge the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to use its best efforts to promote the use of arbitration, by the nations of the earth, for the adjustment of all international questions which arise and fail of adjustment through diplomatic channels. War which forces man to kill his fellow-man, war by which the many are forced to sacrifice their lives to gratify the passions of a few is repugnant to the concepts of our civilization. We view with sincere gratification the growth of an international sentiment opposed to this barbarous method of the past, and we urge our Executive Council to use their best efforts in assisting in the development of those principles founded upon man's duty to his fellow-man, which must eventually make wars impossible through the application of the spirit and methods of arbitration and conciliation; RESOLVED, That this, the Twenty-ninth Convention of the American Federation of Labor, views with deep concern the enormous appropriations made by the Congress of the United States, so much in excess of what rigid economy would require; we urge upon our Government the utmost economy of expenditure, consistent with the proper administrations of the affairs of the nations, thereby lessening the taxation and adding to the comfort of the wage-earner.444 --2-- We further urge that any increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administration be applied to the payment of the national debt: RESOLVED, Than copies of this resolution be sent to the President of the United States, the presiding officers of the Senate and Congress, and to Chairman Tawney of the Committee of Appropriations." Trusting that this matter will receive your careful and favorable consideration, I have the honor to remain, Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Hon. Jos. G. Cannon, Speaker, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. 445 LF December 3, 1909. When replying, kindly refer to Resolution #24. Sir: By instructions of the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909, I beg to call your attention to Resolution #24 of that Con- vention, which reads as follows: "RESOLVED, That this Twenty-ninth Convention of the American Federation of Labor, representative of the wage-earners of the nation, views with serious concern the enormous appropriations made by Con- gress of the U. S., so much in excess of what rigid economy would require. We urge upon our Government the utmost economy of expenditure, consistent with the proper administration of the affairs of the nation, thereby lessening the taxation, and adding to the comforts of the wage-earner, the bone and sinew of the nation, and we urge that an increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administra-tion be applied to the payment of the national debt, thus lessening the burden of taxation. RESOLVED, That we urge the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to use its best efforts to promote the use of arbitration, by the nations of the earth, for the adjustment of all international questions which arise and fail of adjustment through diplomatic channels. War which forces man to kill his fellow-man, war by which the many are forced to sacrifice their lives to gratify the passions of a few is repugnant to the concepts of our civilization. We view with sincere gratification the growth of an international sentiment opposed to this barbarous method of the past, and we urge our Executive Council to use their best efforts in assisting in the development of those principles founded upon man's duty to his fellow-man, which must eventually make wars impossible through the application of the spirit and methods of arbitration and conciliation; RESOLVED, That this, the Twenty-ninth Convention of the American Federation of Labor, views with deep concern the enormous appropriations made by the Congress of the United States, so much in excess of what rigid economy would require; we urge upon our Government the utmost economy of expenditure, consistent with the proper administrations of the affairs of the nations, thereby lessening the taxation and adding to the comfort of the wage-earner.446 --2-- We further urge that any increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administration be applied to the payment of the national debt; RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution be sent to the President of the United States, the presiding officers of the Senate and Congress, and to Chairman Tawney of the Committee of Appropriations." Trusting that this matter will receive your careful and favorable consideration, I have the honor to remain, Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Hon. William H. Taft, President of the United States, Washington, D.C.447 LF December 3, 1909. When replying kindly refer to Resolution #58. Mr. James Duncan, Secretary, The Granite cutters' International Association of America, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find copy of letter just received from Secretary Hannah of the International Union of Pavers, Rammermen, etc. etc. I do not wish to make any mistake in this matter, for I realize how delicate is the situation. Are you of the opinion that I erred in sending an invitation to Secretary McCarthy for the Quarrymen? Do you believe that the "Blue Stone Cutters" should be invited? Having more perfect knowledge of these points than I have, I ask you for the benefit of your advice. With best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:448 Copy. INTERNATIONAL UNION PAVERS, RAMMERMEN, FLAG LAYERS, ETC. New York, Dec. 2, 1909 Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres. American Federation of Labor. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of Nov. 30th to hand, in regard to Resolution #58. We will be pleased to take this question up any time it is con- venient to the interested trades referred to. Bro. Gompers, I cannot see why Bro. P. H. McCarthy, Secy. of the Quarryworkers should be called in on this conference as I understand the action on the motion was to refer it to the Stone Cutting trades, which in my opinion would mean the Marble Cutters Journeymen, Stone Cutters, Granite Cutters, and as the quarrymen are not in this calling I respect- fully call this to your attention. I would ask your opinion if the Blue Stone Cutters throughout the States of New York or through their executive officers can have representation. Bro. Gompers I would be pleased to have you use your good office to have this question settled as you know what a strong and well organized body the Blue Stone Cutters are in this State and which are so closely connected with the industry of the International Union and wishes to affiliate with us. With kind regards and good luck in your noble standing for the right of the people, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Edw. I. Hannah Gen. Secy.449 LF December 2, 1909 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #26 Mr. John F. Tobin, President, Boot and Shoe Workers' Union, 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution #26 of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, introduced by the delegates from your Union, I beg to advise you that, in conformity with the direction of the Convention, I have transmitted copy of Resolution #26 to the Secretary of the Central Labor Union of Salem, Mass., and enclose duplicate copy herein, which you will kindly accept as equally addressed to you. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:450 LF December 3, 1909 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #26. Mr. N. J. Montgomery, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 9 Bowditch St., Peabody, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: The delegates from the Boot and Shoe Workers' Union to the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor introduced Preambles and Resolution #26, which were adopted by the Convention. For convenience, I quote the Preambles and Resolution herein. They are as follows: "WHEREAS, The Central Labor Union of Salem, Mass., a chartered body of the American Federation of Labor, has publicly declared itself in favor of dual organizations of shoeworkers hostile to the legitimate union of the shoe trade; and, WHEREAS, The conclusions of the Salem central body are based upon misrepresentations in which they falsely charge that the Boot & Shoe Workers' Union issued its union stamp in factories while trouble under the auspices of an independent union was in progress; therefore, be it RESOLVED, by the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., that the Salem, Mass., Central Labor Union be instructed to at once reverse its action because of its interference with the matters belonging exclusively to the Boot & Shoe Workers' Union, whose right to issue or refuse to issue its Union Stamp regardless of the wishes or interests of persons now members of the legitimate union of the shoe trade is fully recognized by this Convention." The action of the convention in approving the above is in direct conformity with the provisions of Section 9, Article XI of the Constitution of the Federation which provides that:451 Mr. N. J. Montgomery --2 "No Central Body shall take part in the adjustment of wage contracts, wage disputes or working rules of Local Unions, affiliated with a National or International Union, unless the laws of the National or International Union permit, except upon the request or consent of the executive officer of the National or International Union affected." You will please accept this letter as official notification of the action of the Convention. The hope is entertained that prompt steps will be taken by your central body to comply therewith. Asking you to advise me in regard to the above at your early convenience, and with best wishes for success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.452 LF December 3,1909 Mr. Peter W. Collins, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers of America, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the Federation, in its report to the Toronto Convention, called attention to the efforts which had been made during the year to bring about an adjustment of the jurisdictional controversy existing between your Brotherhood and the Theatrical Stage Employes International Alliance, as regards the matter of the Moving Picture Machine Operators. The committee to which this matter was referred recommend- ed, and the Convention approved, that the President of the A. F. of L. should continue his efforts to bring about another conference between the representatives of the two organizations involved, for the purpose of endeavoring to adjust this controversy. It is with this object in view that I am writing to you and also to Secretary Lee M. Hart. I would appreciate it, therefore, if you and he would enter into correspondence upon this subject and endeavor to arrange a time mutually satisfactory and agreeable when your respective representatives can meet for the purpose of holding453 Mr. Peter W. Collins--2 a conference as above indicated. Asking you to advise me in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.454 LF December 3, 1909 Mr. Lee M. Hart, Secretary, Theatrical Stage Employes International Alliance, State Hotel, State and Harrison Sts., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the Federation, in its report to the Toronto Convention, called attention to the efforts which had been made during the year to bring about an adjustment of the jurisdictional controversy existing between your organization and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers or America, as regards the matter of the Moving Picture Machine Operators. The Committee to which this matter was referred recommended, and the Convention approved, that the President of the A. F. of L. should continue his efforts to bring about another conference between the representatives of the two organizations involved, for the purpose of endeavoring to adjust this controversy. It is with this object in view that I am writing to you and also to Secretary Peter W. Collins. I would appreciate it, therefore, if you and he would enter into correspondence upon this subject and endeavor to arrange a time mutually satisfactory and agreeable when your respective representatives can meet for the purpose of holding a conference as above indicated.455 Mr. Lee M. Hart --2-- Asking you to advise me in regards to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.456 M December 3, 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 November, and have, therefore, authorized the use of a rubber stamp, the same being a fac simile of my signature on warrants as follows: No. 22374, November 1, 1909, to and including No. 22689, November 30, amounting to $18499.24. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.457 LF December 4, 1909 Mrs. Frank K. Foster, Ashmont, Massachusetts. My dear Mrs. Foster: The Executive Council of the Federation in making its Annual Report to the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., expressed in fitting language the loss sustained by the labor movement in the death of your husband, our friend, brother and co-worker, Frank K. Foster. I quote that portion of the report of the Executive Council. It is as follows: "On June 27th, at Waverly, Massachusetts, our friend and follow-worker, Frank K. Foster, was called to join the great majority. To those who knew him no words extolling his great intellect are necessary; to those who did not know him, yet have read his thoughts, it need only be said that, either on the platform advocating labor's cause, or in the editorial sanctum drawing on his brain power in the inculcation of human liberty and betterment, his every effort was a classic. During his life, Brother Foster was at one time Secretary of our Federation and held other important official positions in the labor movement, never failing to render valuable service to the cause so near and dear to his heart. In labor annals his masterful reply at Faneuil Hall to the attack of former President Eliot, of Harvard, on trade unionism will ever be remembered and cherished." The committee to which this subject, together with the reference made to the death of Vice-President Max Norris and ex-secretary August McGraith, reported and the Convention approved, the following:458 Mrs. Frank K. Foster--2 "Your committee concurs in the Executive Council's tribute of sorrow paid to the great loss sustained by our movement in the deaths of late Vice-President Max Morris, Secretaries August McCraith and Frank K. Foster, and it is with deep regret that we note the passing of those three valued men from our midst; and as a mark of respect we call upon the delegates assembled to extend the heartfelt sympathy of all members to the families of the deceased in their sad bereavement, and that this action by the Convention be communicated to them." While I instinctively shrink from the possibility of re-opening wounds which in all such cases nature and time so mercifully at least in part, assuage, yet in carrying out the instructions of the Convention I feel convinced that it will be an additional source of comfort to you and yours, to know that the delegates to the first Convention of the Federation held after the death of your husband did not fail to pay a fitting tribute to his memory. In thus officially transmitting to you the action of the Convention, I desire again to assure you of my continued friendship, sympathy and heartiest good wishes, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor459 LF December 4, 1909 Mrs. August McCraith, c/o Mr. Charles M. Maxwell, World Building, New York City My dear Mrs. McCraith: The Executive Council of the Federation in making its Annual Report to the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. expressed in fitting language the loss sustained by the labor movement in the death of your husband our friend, brother and co-worker, August McCraith. I quote that portion of the report of the Executive Council. It is as follows: "It is not often that it becomes necessary in our report to you to report the demise of three well-known and active men in the labor movement. We now refer to the death of former Secretary of our Federation, August McCraith, which occurred during the year. While not actively engaged in the labor movement in an official capacity at the time of his death, yet Mr. McCraith efficiently served as Secretary of the American Federation of Labor during the years of 1895-6. His work was greatly constructive. He will be remembered by many, and the news of his death was a great shock and grief to his numerous friends." The committee to which this subject, together with the reference made to the death of Vice-President Ma Morris and Brother Frank K. Foster, reported and the Convention approved, the following: "Your committee concurs in the Executive Council's tribute of sorrow paid to the great loss sustained by our movement in the deaths of late Vice-President Max Morris, Secretaries August McCraith and Frank K. Foster, and it is with deep regret that we note the passing of those three valued men from our midst; and as a mark of respect we call upon the delegates assembled to extend the heartfelt sympathy of all members to the families of the deceased in their sad bereavement, and that this action by the Convention be communicated460 Mrs. August McCraith--2 to them." While I instinctively shrink from the possibility of re-opening wounds which in all such cases nature and time so mercifully, at least in part, assuage, yet in carrying out the instructions of the Convention I feel convinced that it will be an additional source of comfort to you and yours to know that the delegates to the first Convention of the Federation held after the death of your husband did not fail to pay a fitting tribute to his memory. In thus officially transmitting to you the action of the Convention, I desire again to assure you of my continued friendship, sympathy and heartiest good wishes. Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.461 LF December 4, 1909 Mrs. Max Morris, 1258 Elizabeth Street, Denver, Colorado. My dear Mrs. Morris: The Executive Council of the Federation in making its Annual Report to the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., expressed in fitting language the loss sustained by the labor movement in the death of your husband, our friend, brother and co-worker, Max Morris. I quote that portion of the report of the Executive Council. It is as follows: "It is but fitting in this report that we should refer to the deep loss the labor movement has sustained in the death of Vice- President Max Morris, on June 6, 1909. Not only labor men, but public men and many business men of prominence and hundreds of people who knew him intimately, in public, business or in a social way, during his lifetime, feel in his death that they have suffered a great personal loss. He was known throughout the country as one of the leading and best representatives of the trade union movement. He was elected Vice-President and member of the Executive Council at the Kansas City Convention, A. F. of L. in 1898. For thirteen years he acted as Secretary-Treasurer of the Retail Clerks' International Union and as editor of its official journal. Under his direction and by his work, faithfulness and ability, the International Association grew strong and influential, improved the condition of the Retail Clerks of the country and added materially in the moral and social uplift of the workers and of the people generally. He served in the State Legislature of Colorado as a member of the House. He was three times selected by the labor vote and accomplished much in securing the enactment of laws in the interest of labor and of the people generally. He represented the best thought462 Mrs. Max Morris --2 and activity of our cause in the labor movement of the West and represented the A. F. of L., the bona-fide trade union movement in the highest and most effective form. At our June meeting we adopted a series of preambles and resolutions which later we had handsomely engrossed and presented the same to Mrs. Max Morris, the widow of our deceased beloved brother and colleague." The committee to which this subject, together with the reference made to the death of ex-secretary August McCraith and Brother Frank K. Foster, reported, and the Convention approved, the following: "Your committee concurs in the Executive Council's tribute of sorrow paid to the great loss sustained by our movement in the deaths of late Vice-President Max Morris, Secretaries August McCraith and Frank K. Foster, and it is with deep regret that we note the passing of those three valued men from our midst: and as a mark of respect we call upon the delegates assembled to extend the heartfelt sympathy of all members to the families of the deceased in their sad bereavement, and that this action by the Convention be communicated to them." While I instinctively shrink from the possibility of re-opening wounds which in all such cases nature and time so mercifully, at least in part, assuage, yet in carrying out the instructions of the Convention I feel convinced that it will be an additional source of comfort to you and yours to know that the delegates to the first convention of the Federation held after the death of your husband did not fail to pay a fitting tribute to his memory. In thus officially transmitting to you the action of the Convention, I desire again to assure you of my continued friendship, sympathy and heartiest good wishes. Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*463*] LF December 4,1909 Mrs. Earl E. Russ, Box 774, Niagara Falls, N. Y. My dear madam: By direction of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to transmit to you herewith copy of the preambles and resolutions adopted by the Convention upon the demise of your husband while attending that Convention. They are as follows: "WHEREAS, An All-wise Providence has removed from our midst our esteemed brother and fellow-worker, Earl E. Russ, who, while in attendance at this the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, representing Federal Union #7479, of Niagara Falls, N. Y., met with an accidental death on November 9,1919; and, WHEREAS, In the death of Delegate Russ, our labor movement has lost a respected and worthy member and faithful worker; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the officers and Delegates of the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, extend their heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved wife and children of our deceased brother in their great sorrow; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be spread on the records of this Convention and a copy forwarded to the wife of our deceased brother. " While officially transmitting the above to you, I desire to take this opportunity of assuring you of my personal sympathy in your great bereavement. I realize that upon such an occasion as this, words count for but little, but yet I could not refrain from endeavoring to convey to you, in some measure, some expression of464 Mrs. Earl E. Russ--2 my sympathy. With assurance of my regard, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.465 LF December 3, 1909. Mr. William J. Spencer, Secretary, Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., Rooms 412–414 Ouray Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the Federation, in making its annual report to the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, when dealing with the general subject matter of the Amalgamated Carpenters and the U. B. of Carpenters stated: "Complaints continue to be made by the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners that the delegates from their local unions are denied representation in the various central bodies by reason of the protest of the local unions of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, the central bodies in some instances taking the position that the locals of the Amalgamated Society are dual organizations. We are endeavoring to enforce the provisions of the Constitution of the A. F. of L., and have notified a number of central bodies that if they do not admit delegates from these local unions their charters will be revoked. The situation, as you can very readily appreciate, is most unsatisfactory, and demands your earnest consideration." The consideration to which the matter was referred recommended, and the Convention approved, the course followed by the Executive Council in enforcing the laws bearing upon the subject, and directed that the entire subject matter be referred to the Building Trades Department of the Federation, with instructions that the laws be enforced in the premises. You will, therefore, accept this letter as official notification of the decision of the Convention in466 Mr. William J. Spencer--2 this matter, and take action in conformity therewith. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above, at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.467 LF December 2, 1909. When replying kindly refer to Resolution #24. Sir: By instruction of the 29th Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8–20, 1909, I beg to call your attention to Resolution #24 of that Convention, which reads as follows: "RESOLVED, That this Twenty-ninth Convention of the American Federation of Labor, representative of the wage-earners of the nation, views with serious concern the enormous appropriations made by Congress of the U. S., so much in excess of what rigid economy would require. We urge upon our Government the utmost economy of expenditure, consistent with the proper administration of the affairs of the nation, thereby lessening the taxation, and adding to the comforts of the wage-earner, the bone and sinew of the nation, and we urge that any increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administration be applied to the payment of the national debt, thus lessening the burden of taxation. RESOLVED, That we urge the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to use its best efforts to promote the use of arbitration, by the nations of the earth, for the adjustment of all international questions which arise and fail of adjustment through diplomatic channels. War which forces man to kill his fellow-man, war by which the many are forced to sacrifice their lives to gratify the passions of a few is repugnant to the concepts of our civilization. We view with sincere gratification the growth of an international sentiment opposed to this barbarous method of the past, and we urge our Executive Council to use their best efforts in assisting in the development of those principles founded upon man's duty to his fellow-man, which must eventually make wars impossible through the application of the spirit and methods of arbitration and conciliation; RESOLVED, That this Twenty-ninth Convention of the American Federation of Labor, views with deep concern the enormous appropriations made by the Congress of the United States, so much in excess of what rigid economy would require; we urge upon our Government the utmost economy of expenditure, consistent with the proper administration of the affairs of the nations, thereby lessening the taxation, and adding to the comforts of the wage-earner.468 -2- We further urge that any increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administration be applied to the payment of the national debt; RESOLVED, That copies of the resolution be sent to the President of the United States, the presiding officers of the Senate and Congress, and to Chairman Tawney of the Committee of Appropriations." Trusting that this matter will receive your careful and favorable consideration, I have the honor to remain, Very respectfully yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. Hon. James A. Tawney, Chairman Committee of Appropriations, House of Representatives, Washington, D.C.469 X. Dec. 4, 1909 Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Secretary, National Civic Federation, Metropolitan Building, New York City, Dear Sir: In my remarks at the dinner at the Hotel Astor, I departed considerably from my prepared address, or rather added some things to it. I know that you have a stenographer present who took down the speeches, and I would be obliged to you if you could let me have a copy of my remarks as reported to you. Thanking you in advance, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.470 X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. C. M. Maxwell, Secretary, New York Typographical Union #6. 616-18 World Building, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December first received and contents noted. In regard to the decision of the Court of Appeals of the State of New York confirming the jail sentence of twenty days against the ex-officials of #6 for violation of an injunction issued in 1906, I am writing to request that if possible you kindly send me copy of the opinion of the judge sentencing these members of your organization, for I should very much like to have it. I would also appreciate it if you would give me a brief statement of the case, the names of the men, and the points in contention before the Court. I would be under additional obligation if you could let me have this information in the course of the next few days. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*471*] NO. 85. X. Dec. 4, 1909. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: As you have already been advised, the great conference for the discussion of Uniform Legislation by the States will meet in Washington, January 17th, 1910, and for two or three days thereafter. The thought has occurred to me that inasmuch as we are to be represented at that conference, that some agreement ought to be had upon the subjects which we would like to have considered and approved by that conference. The purpose of my writing is at ask the members of the Executive Council to write to me conveying their suggestions as to what propositions should be formulated and presented at the conference for consideration and action. If the Executive Council is to have a meeting in advance of the conference, I may codify and present to our Council the recommendations in appropriate form. I ask each member of the Executive Council to give the matter his best consideration and to kindly comply with the request at the earliest convenient moment. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.472 X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. Joseph P. Reilly. Box 1269, New Haven, Conn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30th came duly to hand and contents noted. You say that you have the name of a friend in New Haven who is a power in the Republican machine in the State of Connecticut, and is a close friend of President Taft; that the gentleman is satisfied that if he is allowed to use his good offices with the President that he can offset the serving of any sentences imposed upon Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Morrison, and me. In other words, that in the event of the Court's declining to maintain our contention, the sentences imposed by Justice Wright on Mitchell, Morrison, and myself, need not be served, by reason of the fact that a pardon would be secured from the President. You ask me whether this offer is acceptable to me, and I frankly answer that it is not. If I were guilty of some crime, or violation of some law, if I had committed some offense involving moral turpitude, perhaps I might be so selfish as to then save my unworthy carcass from suffering. That for which Mitchell, Morrison, and I stand under sentence involves principles of right, justice, and equality before the law, freedom guaranteed by the Constitution of our country, and473 Mr. Jos. P. Reilly --2-- in the assertion and maintenance of these principles and rights there can be no compromise. They must be contested to the end to the highest judicial tribunal of the country, and if failure is encountered there, then to the conscience of the court of last resort, the people, and the Congress of the United States. Almost at the same moment that your letter reached me, I received a telegram containing simply this old time quotation, "Stone walls do not a prison make nor iron bars a cage", and this represents my view of the situation. The United States would be very narrow, would be a small, limited jail, if all that is meant by free press, free speech, and trial by jury is denied by the courts of our country. I beg to assure you that I appreciate the kindness which prompted you to write as you did, as well as the willingness of your friend and my old shop mate, Mr. Belasco, to aid in carrying out your project of asking President Taft for a pardon, but I sincerely hope that my friends and the well wishers of our cause will not make my task more difficult or my burdens heavier to bear by following any such course. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.474 X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. Carl Legien, Secretary, N. C. of T. U., S.,O. 16, Engel-Ufer 15, Berlin, Germany. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 9th with enclosures came duly to hand, one from General Secretary Rigola of the Confederazione Generale del Lavoro, of Turin, Italy, the other from L. Jouhaux, Secretary Confederation Generale du Travail, of Paris, France. In connection with the appeal from Italy for funds, by reason of the strike of the Gas Workers of several cities, I should say that an appeal has been issued by the American Federation of Labor in aid of the strike in Sweden, and another circular for the same purpose was issued by direction of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. I enclose to you herein copy of both appeals. These appeals for financial assistance have been issued in spite of the fact that we have three great strikes still in operation, and two of which were started in the early part of this year, and one since July, 1909, two of them being the Iron, Steel and Tin Plate Workers, and the United Hatters of North America, and the other the Seamen of the Lake and Coast, and the coastwise trade. We are constantly having some great strike involving numberless men. In America the trade union movement is aggressive and militant in475 Mr. C. Legien --2-- defending, protecting, and promoting the interests of the workingmen. We are confronted with the most formidable organization of employers who antagonize our every effort, so that we are required to be constantly in the field of positive activity. The membership of our unions is not only paying high dues, but they are frequently assessed and in addition appealed to for voluntary contributions, in one way or another, to support the workers in a given contest. On Monday week, that is, December 13th, a conference will be held at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of devising ways and means to raise funds to financially assist the men on strike in the Iron, Steel and Tin Plate trade. The conference is to consist of the executive officers of the national and international unions, and I am to preside. I mention these things merely to call attention that much as our fellow workers would be glad to financially help the struggling toilers of all countries, such appeals should only be made in some great contest, and that appeals of comparatively minor character should be confined within the territory of the country. A few days ago I received a letter from the National Committee of the Labor-Socialist-Party of Spain, of which the following is a translation: "NATIONAL COMMITTEE OF THE LABOR-SOCIALIST-PARTY." Madrid, Nov. 2 1909. To the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Washington. Esteemed Comrades: As we find ourselves in distressed condition, we make this appeal for aid to you, and to our comrades of this country as well. The combined opposition offered by the Labor-Socialist- Party and the General Union of Workmen against the government declaring war to Marruecas received the approval of the International Socialistic Congress at Stuttgart, but caused the old Government to put into execution drastic measures against us. For instance, open- air meetings were prohibited; the right to hold peaceable reunions of our party was even refused; and when we protested to the authorities against these outrageous measures being perpetrated, our civil rights are denied to us. The most prominent leaders in the great labor centers were put to jail without trial or provocation. The publication of our newspapers was discontinued by confiscation.476 Mr. C. Legien ---3--- In Cataluna, a labor insurrection became quite prominent, and lasted for several days. In Alcoy and Calahoua workingmen were brutally handled by the troops recruited by the Government for the African service. If anyone dared to oppose the views of the Government, they were immediately treated as criminals. The people became a human hunting game for the pleasures of those absolutists who were nothing but barbarians. Citizens were thrown in the tombs of Montjuich in large numbers, to be shot as Francisco Ferrer met his death. On account of this era of repression, thousands of families were left penniless, and hundreds of others crossed the French frontiers to escape the penalty of death. But now, with the advent of the new Government, we hope to receive better treatment. So as to meet the frightful misery of these unfortunates, it becomes necessary for us to ask for assistance from the Brothers throughout the world. We are in a deplorable condition, an as we were assured of your desire for the welfare of oppressed people, we took the liberty to address you this letter with the hope that it will receive serious consideration. I address you in the name of the Spanish workingmen and in my name. (Signed) Pablo Iglesias, President. It is easily understandable that in the case of the strike of Gas Workers of Italy, which started November 2d., and the appeal for funds which reached me December first, and which would take a week to receive the vote and approval of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, if such approval were given, it would take some weeks before there would be any sort of a response at all. It is not difficult to understand, therefore, that before a dollar of money could reach Italy the Gas Workers' strike, by the very nature of the trade, would be ended. I write these matters to you, not for the sake of finding fault, but simply to give you a glance at the situation. In connection with the circular letter of Secretary L. Jouhaux, of the French C. G. T., I should say that I should regard it as in rather poor taste and impractical instead of an invasion of the rights of the trade union movement of Spain. The resolution of the C. G. T. is not in [combination] condemnation as such, it is in criticism, but there is no doubt that it will result in a controversial correspondence477 Mr. C. Legien ---4--- calculated to mar rather than harmonize international relations of organized labor. If my opinion were asked, I should express a difference from the tactics and methods of the organization of the working people of Spain, as I might differ from certain phases of the workingmen's movement of some other countries: but claiming for the workers of America the right of our activities as our judgment and experience dictate, I can only yield to the movements of other countries the right which we ask for ourselves here. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you often, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*478*] LF December 6, 1909. Sir: When a few days ago, with other representatives of labor, we were accorded an interview with you to present several claims of those we represent in the matter of legislation, I stated to you our objection to the appointment of Judge Lurton to the bench of the Supreme Court, and a case or so was mentioned as indicating his narrow [minded] view, as shown in opinions reversing decisions where injured workmen had been awarded damages in the courts below. The statement that he was the judge who announced the opinions was not correct, but, as I understand it, he is the senior, member of the court and concurred in all these decisions. In the Delk case, where Judge Severance announced the opinion of the court, he concurred in it and took pains to say, "I entirely concur in the conclusion of the court and interpretation given to the car coupler act," etc., while Judge Richards, the other judge, strongly dissented. A re-argument was allowed, but both Judge Severance and Judge Lurton still held to their first opinion reversing the lower court, while Judge Richards called attention to the fact that the Supreme Court, in the Taylor case so-called, had taken an entirely different view of the law, holding that it was the intent of the Congress to abolish the rule of reasonable care and due diligence where equipment was being used in a condition contrary to law. The original report of479 Hon. William H. Taft--2 the Dellk case will be found in the Federal Reporter, Volume 158, p. 931; Judge Richards dissenting opinion, p. 145 vol 162, upon rehearing. The Supreme Court has granted a writ of certiorari in this case; see p. 578 of United States Reports, Volume 212. As to the Hazelrigg case, p. 151, volume 170, Federal Reporter, I had the impression that Judge Lurton wrote the opinion, but I find that Judge Severance wrote it, while Judge Lurton concurred. As to where the court reverses the lower court because it did not give instructions regarding contributory negligence, when the cars could have been uncoupled from the other side of the train, any one familiar with railroading knows how impossible it is to walk around a train to uncouple a car, or to expect some other man engaged in other work to do it. The reasons given by this decision are, to a practical railroad man, untenable. Mr. President, at a time when enlightened public opinion is bringing about a better understanding of the rights of the injured worker and the protection due those dependent upon him, when your own utterances have given hope and encouragement that the old time harsh rules of law, which have borne so hard upon those less able to bear it, would be modified, it is discouraging should Judge Lurton, holding the views he does, go upon the Supreme Court Bench, there to perpetuate and continue his ideas of justice to those who toil. That court upon vital questions affecting the worker is so closely divided, will not his elevation seriously injure the work you are undertaking in relieving the lot of the stricken ones among those who toil? In behalf of these, I respectfully ask you to consider480 Hon. William H. Taft --3 this matter most seriously. Will not the elevation of Judge Lurton to the United States Supreme Court Bench be interpreted as an endorsement by you of his position upon this and kindred subjects? Your statement to me that our estimate of Judge Lurton was erroneous caused me to pause, and in the meantime to make an investigation, and I am reliably informed that in the long course of his career in the administration of justice upon the bench, his trend of mind has never shown that broad interpretation of law or sympathy for the cause of those who suffer as the results of industrial accidents. I have the honor to remain, Very respectfully your, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Hon. William H. Taft, President of the United States, Washington, D. C. 481 Washington, D. C. Dec 6, 1909. Hon. Alton S. Parker, #3 So. William St., New York City. Supreme Court granted writ of Certiorari. At last the principles of justice and right for which we are contending are to be determined by the highest judicial tribunal of our country. Congratulations! SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. Washington, D. C., Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Cal. Pretests from every printing trade involved received against declared intention Labor Council imposing boycott on San Francisco Call. In interest of entire labor movement and all principles involved in trade unionism, I urge compliance with my telegrams and letter sent you by direction of Executive Council. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[*482*] Washington, D. C., Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. H. M. Kellogg, President, Newspaper Publishers Association, Chicago, Ill. Am acting as Federation laws and Executive Council direct. In matters of issuance of charters and their cancellation, we will be prompted by our sense of right and justice rather than upon immediate demands made upon us. SAMUEL GOMPERS. COLLECT LF Washington,D.C. Dec. 6,1909 F. T. Hawley 326 Brisbane Building Buffalo, N.Y. Telegram received, Engagements impossible meet you Chicago. Can meet you Cincinnati, Thursday or Friday, where I shall by direction Toronto Convention meet Brotherhood of Painters in Convention assembled. Samuel Gompers. (Charge to A.F. of L.) [*483*] Washington, D. C. December 6, 1909. Mr. W. B. Parkes, Guelph, Ontario. Charter outfit forwarded U. S. Express November thirtieth to Frank Magnoli. Frank Morrison. Charge A. F. of L.[*484*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. Louis A. Weigel, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, #512 Jackson Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 30, enclosing money order for $5.00, in payment of dues for your organization for the months of April '09 to and including September '09. Enclosed findreeipt forte amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*485*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. P. A. Day, Treasurer, Central Labor Union, #313 4th Street, Miami, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 30, enclosing express order for $2.50, in payment of dues for your organization for the months of August, September and October, '09. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*486*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. Paul J. Paulsen, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, Lock Box 192, (Sweetwater County) Rock Springs, Wyoming. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of November 26, enclosing check for $2.50, in payment of dues for your organization for the months of October, November and December, '09. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*487*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. J. F. Barr, Secretary-Treasurer, Central Trades and Labor Union, c/o City Hall, East St. Louis, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of December 2, enclosing check for $5.00, in payment of dues for your organization for the months of July '09 to an including December, '09. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*488*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. Simon A. Henry, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, 805 East Main Street, Chillicothe, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of December 1, enclosing money order for $5.00, in payment of dues for your organization for the months of July '09 to and including December, '09. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*489*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. Geo. A. Bitz, Secretary, Brushmakers International Union, #6, 207 Manhattan Avenue, Brooklin, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of December 2, enclosing money order for $2.25, in payment for Ledger, same having been forwarded under separate cover. Enclosed find receipt for the amount remitted, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor. [*490*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. Tim Bnassel, Secretary, Stationery Firemen, Local #4, #35 Elm Street, Holyoke, Massachusetts. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor enclosing check for $10.00, donation to the legal defense fund of the American Federation of Labor. Enclosed find receipt for the amount forwarded. In behalf of the officers of the American Federation of Labor I desire to express our appreciation, and thank the members of your union for their generous donation. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*491*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. I. M. Staub, Secretary, Federal Labor Union #8139, Box 152, McSherrytown, Pennsylvania Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor enclosing money order for $4.00, in payment of per capita tax for the month of November '09. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*492*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. Harry Tuite, Secretary Riggers Protective, #10298, #10 Howard Street, San Francisco, California. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor of December 1, enclosing money order for $2.40, in payment of per capita tax for the month of October, '09, also for due cards same having been forwarded under separate cover. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*493*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. Michele Pennetti, Secretary Rockmen and Excavators, #12438, 175 Willow Street, Yonkers, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of your favor enclosing money order for $26.30, in payment of per capita tax for the month of November, '09. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*494*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. Arthur McCarthy, Recording Secretary Ass't Foremens Association, 2nd Grade Dept. Street #12847 #1521 First Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 3 received, enclosing money order for $10.00, in payment of per capita tax for the month of November, '09. Enclosed find receipt for same, together with stamps equivalent to the amount remitted for per capita tax, for which accept our thanks. You will also find enclosed 100 stamps. One is to be placed upon the card of each member on the space alloted to the month for which he has paid dues to you. The extra stamps are forwarded in order that you may have them on hand to place upon the cards of the members as they pay the succeeding month's dues to you. When you collect each month's per capita tax and forward it to this office its equivalent in stamps will be returned to you, and in this manner, after payment of the first month's per capita tax, you will always have stamps in advance. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*495*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. L. J. Akers, Recording Secretary, Federal Labor Union,#12668, 1907 H Street, Bedford, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: The per capita tax of your Union will start with January 1910. It is payable monthly, ten cents for each member in good standing. The per capita tax for January will be due Feb. 1, '10, and should be forwarded on or before February 15, 1910. Enclosed please find sample due card (with stamp thereon, properly canceled) to be purchased by Local Unions for issuance of their members. When the first month's per capita tax is received from a Union, its equivalent in stamps, representing ten cents each, will be returned to the Secretary, who will place one on the book of each member having paid his dues for the month for which the per capita tax has been forwarded to this office. An extra set of stamps will also be forwarded at the same time in order that the Secretary will have stamps on hand to place upon the cards of members as they pay the succeeding month's dues to him. After the first payment of per capita tax but one set of stamps will be forwarded each month, equivalent to the amount remitted therefor, and are to be placed upon the cards of the members as they pay the succeeding month's dues to the Secretary. Great care should be exercised by the officers of your Union[*493*] to see that the obligations are met promptly. If paid regularly the dues will not be heavy, but if allowed to accumulate they may grow into such an obligation as will be a buden for your Union to meet. Aside from this, exercise of care and promptness in the minor details of the Union will imbue a spirit of thoroughness and caution in matters of graver concern affecting its interests, which will prove of untold assistance in the general development and success of your organization. Fraternally yours, Secretary, American Federation of Labor.497 C December 6, 1909. Mr. L. J. Akers, Recording Secretary, Federal Labor Union, #12868, 1907 H Street, Bedford, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In some instances our Local Unions, through neglect to acquaint themselves with the laws governing the defense fund, have failed to observe the requirements which must be enforced to qualify their members for benefits in case of strike or lockout, and are thereby deprived of the financial assistance to which they would otherwise have been entitled. In order to avoid the possibility of any misunderstanding on the part of your organization in regard to the conditions under which benefits from the defense fund are granted, Article XIII of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. is herein quoted in full: ARTICLE XIII.--DEFENSE FUND FOR LOCAL TRADE AND FEDERAL LABOR UNIONS. Section 1. The money of the defense fund shall be drawn only to sustain strikes or lockouts of Local Trade and Federal Labor Unions, when such strikes or lockouts are authorized, indorsed, and conducted in conformity with the following provisions of this Article: Sec. 2. In the event of a disagreement between a Local Union and an employer which, in the opinion of the Local Union, may result in a strike, such Union shall notify the President of the American Federation of Labor, who shall investigate, or cause an investigation to be made, of the disagreement, and endeavor to adjust the difficulty. If his efforts should prove futile, he shall take such steps as he may deem necessary in notifying the Executive Council, and if the majority of said Council shall decide that a strike is necessary, such Union shall be authorized to order a strike, but that under no circumstances shall a strike or lockout be deemed legal, or moneys expended from the498 defense fund on that account, unless the strike or lockout shall have been first authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council. Sec. 3. When a strike has been authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council, the president of the Local Union interested shall , within twenty-four hours, call a meeting of said Union, "of which every member shall be regularly notified," to take action thereon, and no member shall vote on such question unless he is in good standing. Should three-fourths of the members present decide, by secret ballot, on a strike, the president of the Local Union shall immediately notify the President of the American Federation of Labor of the cause of the matter in dispute; what the wages, hours, and conditions of labor then are; what advances, if any, are sought; what reductions are offered, if any; state the number employed and unemployed; the state of trade generally in the locality, and the number of persons involved, union and non-union. Also the number of members who would become entitled to the benefits herein provided should the application be authorized and approved. Sec. 4. No Local shall be entitled to benefit from the defense fund unless it has been in continuous good standing for one year; and no member shall be entitled to benefit from said defense fund unless he has been a member in good standing in the American Federation of Labor for at least one year. Sec. 5. When a strike has been inaugurated under the provisions of Sections 2 and 3, the American Federation of Labor shall pay to the BONDED OFFICER OF THE UNION INVOLVED, or his order, for a period of six weeks, an amount equal to four ($4) dollars per week for each member. Each Local Union shall require its treasurer to give proper bond for the safe keeping and disbursement of all funds of the Local. No benefit shall be paid for the first two weeks of the strike. The Executive Council shall have the power to authorize the payment of strike benefits for an additional period. Sec. 6. No member of a Local Union on strike shall be entitled to weekly benefits unless he reports daily to the proper officer of the Local Union while the strike continues, and no member who shall receive a week's work, three days to be a week, shall receive benefits. Any member refusing other work while on strike (providing said work is not in conflict with labor's interests) shall not be entitled to any benefits. SEC. 7. ANY UNION INAUGURATING A STRIKE WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SHALL NOT RECEIVE BENEFITS ON ACCOUNT OF SAID STRIKE. Sec. 8. In case of lockout the Executive Council shall have power to pay benefits if, upon investigation, it is found that the Local Union whose members are involved did not by their action or demands provoke the lockout by their employer. Sec. 9. During the continuance of a strike the executive board of the Local Union shall make weekly reports to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, showing the amount of money distributed for benefits, and to whom paid, furnishing individual receipts to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor from all members to whom such benefits have been paid, and all other facts that may be required. Sec. 10. Before a strike shall be declared off a special meeting of the Union shall be called for that purpose, and it shall require a majority vote of all members present to decide the question either way. Sec. 11. In the event of the defense fund becoming dangerously low through protracted strike or lockout, the Executive Council499 of the American Federation of Labor shall have the power to levy an assessment of ten cents on each member of Local Trade and Federal Labor Unions, assessments to be restricted to not more than five per year; and further, that there shall always be a surplus of five thousand ($5,000) dollars in the defense fund. SEC. 12. NO LOCAL SHALL BE ENTITLED TO ANY OF THE BENEFITS OF THE DEFENSE FUND UNLESS IT REQUIRES ITS MEMBERS TO PAY NOT LESS THAN FIFTY (50) CENTS PER MONTH. Sec. 13. Local Trade and Federal Labor Unions shall set aside for the maintenance of a local defense fund not less than five cents a month for each member. You will please read this at the next meeting of the Union, and the members are requested to give careful attention and consideration to same. Fraternally yours, Secretary American Federation of Labor.[*500*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. W. Brewer, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, #404 2nd Avenue, Carnegie, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: The dues of the Central Labor Unions to the American Federation of Labor are $10.00 per yeaer, payable quarterly, $2.50. Yours will begin with December. The first quarter will become due March 1, 1910, and should be paid on or before March 15, '10. With every wish that your organization will be entirely successful in protecting and advancing the interests of the movement in your vicinity, as well as assisting in its general development, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor.501 C December 6, 1909. Mr. Wm. Krenke, Secretary, Stone Planermens Union, #12866, #521 18th Street, Bedford, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: The per capita tax of your Union will start with January 1910. It is payable monthly, ten cents for each member in good standing. The per capita tax for January will be due Feb. 1, '10, and should be forwarded on or before February 15, 1910. Enclosed please find sample due card (with stamp thereon, properly canceled) to be purchased by local Unions for issuance to their members. When the first month's per capita tax is received from a Union, its equivalent in stamps, representing ten cents each, will be returned to the Secretary, who will place one on the book of each member having paid his dues for the month for which the per capita tax has been forwarded to this office. An extra set of stamps will also be forwarded at the same time in order that the Secretary will have stamps on hand to place upon the cards of members as they pay the succeeding month's dues to him. After the first payment of per capita tax but one set of stamps will be forwarded each month, equivalent to the amount remitted therefor, and are to be placed upon the cards of the members as they pay the succeeding month's dues to the Secretary. Great care should be exercised by the officers of your Union502 to see that the obligations are met promptly. If paid regularly the dues will not be heavy, but if allowed to accumulate they may grow into such an obligation as will be a burden for your Union to meet. Aside from this, exercise of care and promptness in the minor details of the Union will imbue a spirit of thoroughness and caution in matters of graver concern affecting its interests, which will prove of untold assistance in the general development and success of your organization. Fraternally yours, Secretary, American Federation of Labor.503 C December 6, 1909. Mr. Wm. Krenke, Secretary, Stone Planermens Union, #12866, #521 18th Street, Bedford, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In some instances our Local Unions, through neglect to acquaint themselves with the laws governing the defense fund, have failed to observe the requirements which must be enforced to qualify their members for benefits in case of strike or lockout, and are thereby deprived of the financial assistance to which they would otherwise have been entitled. In order to avoid the possibility of any misunderstanding on the part of your organization in regard to the conditions under which benefits from the defense fund are granted, Article XIII of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. is herein quoted in full: ARTICLE XIII.--DEFENSE FUND FOR LOCAL TRADE AND FEDERAL LABOR UNIONS. Section 1. The money of the defense fund shall be drawn only to sustain strikes or lockouts of Local Trade and Federal Labor Unions, when such strikes or lockouts are authorized, indorsed, and conducted in conformity with the following provisions of this Article: Sec 2. In the event of a disagreement between a Local Union and an employer which, in the opinion of the Local Union, may result in a strike, such Union shall notify the President of the American Federation of Labor, who shall investigate, or cause an investigation to be made, of the disagreement, and endeavor to adjust the difficulty. If his efforts should prove futile, he shall take such steps as he may deem necessary in notifying the Executive Council, and if the majority of said Council shall decide that a strike is necessary, such Union shall be authorized to order a strike, but that under no circumstances shall a strike or lockout be deemed legal, or moneys expended from the504 defense fund on that account, unless the strike or lockout shall have been first authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council. Sec. 3. When a strike has been authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council, the president of the Local Union interested shall, within twenty-four hours, call a meeting of said Union, "of which every member shall be regularly notified," to take action thereon, and no member shall vote on such question unless he is in good standing. Should three-fourths of the members present decide, by secret ballot, on a strike, the president of the Local Union shall immediately notify the President of the American Federation of Labor of the cause of the matter in dispute; what the wages, hours, and conditions of labor then are; what advances, if any, are sought; what reductions are offered, if any; state the number employed and unemployed; the state of trade generally in the locality, and the number of persons involved, union and non-union. Also the number of members who would become entitled to the benefits herein provided should the application be authorized and approved. Sec. 4. No Local shall be entitled to benefit from the defense fund unless it has been in continuous good standing for one year; and no member shall be entitled to benefit from said defense fund unless he has been a member in good standing in the American Federation of Labor for at least one year. Sec. 5. When a strike has been inaugurated under the provisions of Sections 2 and 3, the American Federation of Labor shall pay to the BONDED OFFICER OF THE UNION INVOLVED, or his order, for a period of six weeks, an amount equal to four ($4) dollars per week for each member. Each Local Union shall require its treasurer to give proper bond for the safe keeping and disbursement of all funds of the Local. No benefit shall be paid for the first two weeks of the strike. The Executive Council shall have the power to authorize the payment of strike benefits for an additional period. Sec. 6. No member of a Local Union on strike shall be entitled to weekly benefits unless he reports daily to the proper officer of the Local Union while the strike continues, and no member who shall receive a week's work, three days to be a week, shall receive benefits. Any member refusing other work while on strike (providing said work is not in conflict with labor's interests) shall not be entitled to any benefits. SEC. 7. ANY UNION INAUGURATING A STRIKE WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SHALL NOT RECEIVE BENEFITS ON ACCOUNT OF SAID STRIKE. Sec. 8. In case of lockout the Executive Council shall have power to pay benefits if, upon investigation, it is found that the Local Union whose members are involved did not by their action or demands provoke the lockout by their employer. Sec. 9. During the continuance of a strike the executive board of the Local Union shall make weekly reports to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, showing the amount of money distributed for benefits, and to whom paid, furnishing individual receipts to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor from all members to whom such benefits have been paid, and all other facts that may be required. Sec. 10. Before a strike shall be declared off a special meeting of the Union shall be called for that purpose, and it shall require a majority vote of all members present to decide the question either way. Sec. 11. In the event of the defense fund becoming dangerously low through protracted strike or lockout, the Executive Council505 Of the American Federation of Labor shall have the power to levy an assessment of ten cents on each member of Local Trade and Federal Labor Unions, assessments to be restricted to not more than five per year; and further, that there shall always be a surplus of five thousand ($5,000) dollars in the defense fund. SEC. 12. NO LOCAL SHALL BE ENTITLED TO ANY OF THE BENEFITS OF THE DEFENSE FUND UNLESS IT REQUIRES ITS MEMBERS TO PAY NOT LESS THAN FIFTY (50) CENTS PER MONTH. Sec. 13. Local Trades and Federal Labor Unions shall set aside for the maintenance of a local defense fund not less than five cents a month from each member. You will please read this at the next meeting of the Union, and the members are requested to give careful attention and consideration to same. Fraternally yours, Secretary American Federation of Labor.506 L. December 6, 1909. Mr. Frank B. Crown, C/o The Law Reporter, 518 Fifth Street, Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Crown: On page 300 of the Tenth Day, Afternoon Session, the report of the committee should come immediately after Resolution No. 140. The printers placed it after motion to adopt, the people by whom it was discussed, etc. If this error has not been corrected, kindly see that the change is made to correspond with the above. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.507 AH December 3, 1909. Mr. F. E. Etzler, Secretary, Labor Legislative Committee, Middletown, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 27th came duly to hand, in which you make inquiry relative to securing charter for your Legislative Committee. In reply I beg to state, that the American Federation of Labor grants charters only to unions of bona fide wage workers whose purpose is increasing wages and bettering the conditions of the wage earners. Our State organizations and City Central Bodies are expected to look after the legislative matters in the state legislatures and in the respective cities. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.508 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Thos. Van Lear, Business Agent, Lodge #32, International Association of Machinists, #1929 University Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 3rd has been received, and your letter to Mrs. M. B. East, has been mailed to her proper address, #424 Law Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. This is Mrs. East's business address according to our records. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.509 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. P. J. Walsh, Secretary, Central Labor Union, P. O. Box #526, Oil City, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 1st came duly to hand, enclosing money order for $2.50, which has been applied as dues of your Central Body to this office for August, September and October '09. Kindly accept thanks for the remittance, and find receipt enclosed herewith. We have this day written to the National Surety Company, New York, requesting them to change the name of your organization, of which Mr. J. D. Helmers is treasurer, and substitute the word "Central Labor Union" from Local #830 Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, and I would also request that you return receipt to this office for correction in accordance therewith. The reason the above was made out in this manner was due to the fact, that Mr. Helmers had filled in the application blank to read "Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners #830", and of course the bond was made in accordance with the information given in the application. I am enclosing to you herewith copy of the pass-word for the current term, in compliance with your request. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary A. F. of L.510 AH Nov. 30, 1909. Mr. Francis T. Hemel, Secretary, Saw Grinders' & Polishers' Union #12017, C/O R. D. #29, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 20th has been received, enclosing money order for $11.70 covering per capita tax on 39 members, for the months of September, October and November, for which accept thanks and find receipt herewith enclosed, together with equivalent amount of due stamps. Further reply will be given your letter in separate communication. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.511 AH Dec. 6, 1909. National Surety Company, #115 Broadway, New York City, N. Y. Gentlemen: Under separate cover we have forwarded to you change notice on bond of John D. Helmers, treasurer of Central Labor Union of Oil City, Pennsylvania, which was, through error, entered as Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners #830. Kindly make this change in the name of the organization as per form of notice and oblige. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.512 AH Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. B. L. Beall, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, Box #556, Aberdeen, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 22nd came duly to hand, and in reply I beg to state, that remittance of $5.00 was received from your organization under date of November 19th, and was applied to cover dues for July, August, September, October and November, receipt for the amount was mailed to J. N. Caron, treasurer, on November 20th. The notification which you received of arrears in dues, was mailed from this office on November 15th, and you will note that your remittance was not received here before November 19th. Thanking you for your good wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.513 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. F. F. A. Allman, Secretary, Federal Labor Union #12822, Main Street, Empire, Canal Zone, Panama. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 19th has been received, enclosing money order for $3.75; $1.50 of which has been applied to cover per capita tax on 15 members for month of November 1909 in accordance with your report. Receipt for that amount, together with due stamps equivalent to the amount of tax remitted. The balance $2.25 for which you request union labels is held, inasmuch as it is necessary to have a signed contract with this office before the labels can be used. We are enclosing to you herewith three (3) copies of contract form, which should be signed by the firm desiring the use of the labels, and by the President of your union, and returned to this office for the approval of President Gompers, after which two copies will be returned to you, one to be held by the firm and the other by the union, and the third is held at this office for our records. Price of the labels is 75 cents per 1,000, $5.00 per 10,000. Samples are enclosed herewith. We are not in a position to direct you to a firm from which you will be able to purchase swords.514 Mr. F. F. A. Allman-------#2. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.515 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. J. R. Commons, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 2nd has been received, and in compliance with your request enclosed herewith you will find copy of our list of International organizations, also list of Labor Press and Official Journals. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.516 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Hugh Corgan, Secretary, Local #1370, United Mine Workers of America, Morris Run, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 1st has been received, and in reply I beg to state, that the speech of Vice-President John Mitchell at the Toronto Convention will be published in pamphlet form and issued from this office. As soon as we receive a supply from our printer, we will comply with your request for several copies. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.517 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. John Sebring, Secretary-Treasurer, #358 Terrace Avenue, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 2nd has been received, and in compliance with your request, you will find herewith enclosed copy of list of International organizations affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.518 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Chas. Lawyer, Secretary-Treasurer, Tin-Plate Workers' International Protective Association of A., Cor. 14th & Market Street, Wheeling, W. Virginia. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 1st has been received, enclosing money order for $1.25, for which we have forwarded to C. W. Spriggs, 530 Clinton Street, Steubenville, Ohio, one 100-page ledger. Kindly accept thanks for the remittance, and find receipt enclosed herewith. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.519 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Ralph V. Brandt, Secretary-Treasurer, Wood, Wire & Metal Lathers' International Union, #401 Superior Building, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 1st has been received, enclosing checks for $25.00 and $1.00, in payment for per capita tax of your organization on 5,000 members, for the month of December 1909, and for four (4) copies of proceedings of the Toronto Convention. Kindly accept thanks for the remittance, and find receipt enclosed herewith. The proceedings are not yet ready for issuance, but as soon as we receive a supply from our printer, your order will be filled and forwarded to you. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.520 AH Dec 6, 1909. Mr. Wm. H. Johnson, Treasurer, International Union of Slate Workers, Box #154, East Bangor, Maine. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 1st has been received, enclosing check for $9.00 in payment of per capita tax on 1800 members, for the month of November 1909, for which accept thanks and find receipt enclosed herewith. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.521 AH Dec. 6. 1909. Mr. Wm. Van Bodegraven, Secretary-Treasurer, International Brick, Tile & Terra Cotta Workers' Alliance, Room 409, 56 Fifth Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 1st has been received, enclosing check for $15.02 in payment for per capita tax on 3004 members for the month of November, for which accept thanks and find receipt enclosed herewith. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.522 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. M. R. Welch, Secretary--Treasurer, Switchmen's Union of North America, #326 Brisbane Building, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 27th has been received, enclosing check for $78.82 in payment for per capita tax for your organization, for the months of October and November, for which accept thanks and find receipt enclosed herewith. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.523 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Wm. Young, Secretary, International Union of Elevator Conductors, 1952 N. 19th Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 2nd has been received, enclosing check for $17.50 covering per capita tax of your organization, 2,000 members for the month of November 1909, and for 30 copies of proceedings of the Toronto Convention. The proceedings have not yet been received from our printer, as soon as we receive a supply, your order will be filled and forwarded. Kindly accept thanks for the remittance and find receipt herewith. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enc'l.524 AH Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. J. K. Kreutzinger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, #637 Pearl Street, Mt. Vernon, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 28th has been received, and in reply I beg to state, that our records show the Central Labor Union of Mt. Vernon, Indiana, has been suspended for nonpayment of dues, and in order to be reinstated they will be obliged to make application for new charter. I would, therefore, kindly ask that you return the old charter and die of seal to this office. The die should pried from the seal and sent by mail with the charter in order to avoid express charges. Fraternally yours, Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor.525 X. Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Daniel Harris, President, Workingmen's Federation of the State of New York, 190 Bowery, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: You know that the Legislature of the State of New York has authorized Governor Hughes to appoint a Committee to investigate and to report upon the subject of Employers' Liability and Compensation. The Committee has held several sessions and seems sincerely in earnest in the endeavor to obtain the very best possible information upon the subject. Talking the matter over with some of those who are deeply interested in the subject, it was suggested, and the suggestion commends itself to me, that a Committee representing the Workingmen's Federation of the State of New York, together with a Committee from the New York Central Federated Union, and one or two other central bodies, meet together for the purpose of considering this subject and formulating in concrete shape some suggestions in addition to the oral testimony submitted, as to what amendments to existing law our fellow workers desire to have made, and also an explanation of their attitude on the subject of Compensation, with special reference to the Workmen's Compensation Act of Great Britian. Under separate cover I am sending you copy of the report which both the Executive Council and I made to the Toronto Convention as well as the action of the Convention thereon. It may be helpful526 Mr. Daniel Harris --2-- to you and your conferees upon the subject. Inasmuch as the Commission will be desirous of reporting at as early a date as possible, I would further suggest that you communicate with Mrs. Eastman, Secretary of the Commission, Metropolitan Building, Twenty-Third Street and Madison Avenue, New York City. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*527*] X. Dec. 6, 1909. Dr. Chas. E. Neill, Commissioner, Bureau of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: The Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, having under consideration the subject matter of Industrial Education, and the report of our special committee upon that subject, directed that a Committee consisting of Mr. Mitchell, Mr. O'Connell, Mr. Morrison, and myself, call upon the Secretary of Commerce and Labor and the Commissioner of Labor, with a view of having the Bureau of Labor make a thorough investigation into the various phases of this subject, and the Committee so authorized now ask whether you can jointly meet us on Monday morning, December 20th, at your office? Of Course, if the date is not convenient, kindly set another, and in any event, I shall be obliged for an answer at your convenience. I am sending a letter similar to this to the Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Labor. Very Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*528*] X. Dec. 6, 1909. Hon. Charles Nagel, Secretary, Department of Commerce and Labor, Washington, D. C. Sir: The Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, having under consideration the subject matter of Industrial Education, and the report of our special committee upon that subject, directed that a Committee consisting of Mr. Mitchell, Mr. O'Connell, Mr. Morrison, and myself, call upon the Secretary of Commerce and Labor, and the Commissioner of Labor, with a view of having the Bureau of Labor make a thorough investigation into the various phases of this subject, and the Committee so authorized now ask whether you can jointly meet us on Monday morning, December 20th, at your office? Of course, if the date is not convenient, kindly set another, and in any event, I shall be obliged for an answer at your convenience. I am sending a letter similar to this to the Commissioner of Labor. Very respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*529*] X. Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Jas. O'Connell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: I am enclosing you herewith copy of letter this day mailed to Dr. Chas. E. Neill, Commissioner of Labor, and Hon. Charles Nagel, Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Labor, in which I ask for a conference on the subject of Industrial Education on Monday morning December 20th. Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Morrison and I have agreed upon that date, and I would ask you to kindly conform to the same, if possible for you to do so. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*530*] X. Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. J. J. Reid, Box 42, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sit and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of the third, I beg to say that I have just received telegram from Mr. Frank Duffy of the Special Committee, in which he informs me that the conference will take place at ten o'clock, Thursday morning, December ninth, at the St. Nicholas Hotel, Springfield, Illinois. Representatives of your organization will therefore be in attendance at the time and place stated. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*531*] X. Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Frank J. McNulty, President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of the third, I beg to say that I have just received telegram from Mr. Frank Duffy of the Special Committee, in which he informs me that the conference will take place at ten o'clock, Thursday morning, December ninth, at the St. Nicholas Hotel, Springfield, Illinois. Representatives of your organization will therefore be in attendance at the time and place stated. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*532*] LF December 6, 1909 Mr. James E. Roach, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, c/o Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave. New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: On January 10, 1910 a convention will be held at Frankfort, Ky. for the purpose of re-organizing the Kentucky State Federation of Labor. The conditions in the labor field in the city of Louisville, as well as the State of Kentucky, have, to say the least, been unsatisfactory. I do not desire to go into the matter in detail herein, but the object of my writing to you is to say that I desire you, as the representative of the Federation, to attend this Convention. Before going to Frankfort, it would be well for you to come to headquarters so as to have the opportunity of looking over all of the papers and correspondence in connection with the general subject matter of conditions throughout the state, and in the City of Louisville. When you come on here, you will then be given your credentials to attend the convention as the representative of the Federation. With kind regards, I beg to remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*533*] C December 6, 1909. Mr. W. Brewer, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, #404 Second Avenue, Carnegie, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: The application of your Central Body for certificate of affiliation came duly to hand, and in compliance with this request we take pleasure in issuing the same. I desire to extend to your organization as representing the labor movement in your city, a hearty welcome into the fold of the American Federation of Labor, and sincerely hope that the alliance thus formed will still further cement the ties already existing between your union and those throughout the jurisdiction of the American Federation of Labor. I beg to assure you that we thoroughly reciprocate the fraternal spirit manifested, and will hold ourselves in readiness at all times to assist your organization to the fullest extent of our ability. You are respectfully requested to report to this office at regular intervals provided by the constitution of the American Federation of Labor, and at such other times as anything may come under your observation of interest to our movement. You are also kindly asked to notify this office upon receipt of your charter, and give the name of your organization in all of your communications to this office.[*534*] Inclosed you will find two leaflets, "Hints" to unions, etc. It is suggested that they be read and pasted in your minute book for future reference. In framing by-laws for your Central Body you will find them of considerable assistance. Inclosed find receipt for $10.00 paid by your union for certificate of affiliation. Same [?] was forwarded [?] to you on December 2, '09. Seal ordered December 1, and will be expressed with outfit as soon as we receive same. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*535*] M December 4, 1909. Mr. Jere L. Sullivan, Secretary, Hotel and Restaurant Employes' Int'l Alliance, Commericial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 2nd instant in which you enclose clipping from one of the Brandford, Ontario papers of November 16. Your letter reaches him just as he is leaving for New York to keep an important engagement. From New York he goes to Cincinnati to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters as directed by the Toronto Convention of the Federation. Not being able to reply to your letter now he directs me to acknowledge its receipt, and to say that he hopes to see you in Cincinnati, Thursday and talk with you in regard to the matter about which you write. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*536*] M December 6, 1909. Mr. M. M. Dawson, 141 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir: In conformity with President Gompers promise to you, you will please find enclosed herein list of affiliated national and international unions giving the names and addresses of their respective secretaries. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.537 Z Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. C. Legien, Secretary, National Centers of Trade Unions, S. O. 16, Engel Ufer 15, Berlin, Germany. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will find the report which I promised to send you in compliance with your request. I am to appear in court today and I do not know what the result will be. I have authorized my name to be placed on a clean copy of the report. I mention this fact because the report will not bear my signature. If the Supreme Court decides to grant the writ of certiorari for which we are appealing, it will take a few months before the argument is had upon the case. If the writ is granted I shall immediately thereafter leave the city today for about two weeks, on [the most] important work attending conferences, meetings, etc., as directed by the Toronto Convention. If the court does not grant the writ, I shall, of course, with Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Morrison, be placed under arrest. I am taking this precaution to send you this report, hoping it will be in time. Under separate cover I mailed to you copy of the petition to the Supreme Court of the United States, and also the printed argument in support of the petition.538 Mr. C. Legien----2---- With best wishes and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.539 Z Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. J. D. Pierce, Organizer, General Delivery, Apollo, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which Secretary Morrison has received from the Secretary of Hat Trimmeres' Union #11594 of Webash, Indians, and which he turned over to me for consideration. I cannot begin to tell you how shocked I was on perusing its contents, and to be a very frank with you, the frequent receipt of letters of this character makes me heart-sore. Not only have you unwarrantably borrowed money from people whom you have neglected to pay, but you have often shown your utter indifference to communicating with them, and in this instance the loan of money was made by a union of poor working girls. I know that your salary is not high, but, having consented to work for the salary, I deem it your bounden duty to live within its limits. I ask you to transmit promptly to Miss Marie Bolan, Secretary of Hat Trimmers' Union #11984, 184 Elm St., Wabash, Indiana, check for $30.00, and I shall expect to be advised authentically that this has been received by her within the next two weeks. This loan and other loans have not been made to you personally but as a representative of the American Federation540 Mr. J. D. Pierce---2--- of Labor and it must be paid. Wish best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.541 COPY. Wabash, Ind., Nov. 29, 1909. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Some time ago Organizer J. D. PIerce was sent to Wabash to adjust some trouble of the Hat Trimmers 11594 of that place, he being sent by A. F. of L. Before he left he asked as a loan from this organization a loan of $30.00, which was given to him, he promising to return as soon as he received his check from headquarters, but sorry to say it has been almost six months and we haven't heard from his since. It was the vote of the organization of said Hat Trimmers that I write this to you. Not wishing to be unkind to Mr. Pierce, as I did not know his whereabouts to remind him of the loan as he has evidently forgotten it. Hoping to be advised from you on this little matter in behalf of the Hat Trimmers of Wabash, Indiana, I am Fraternally yours, (Signed) Marie Bolan, Sec'y, Hat Trimmers, 184 Elm St., Wabash, Indiana.542 Z Dec. 6, 1909. Miss Marie Bolan, Secretary, Hat Trimmers' Union #11594, 184 Elm St., Wabash, Indiana. Dear Madam: Your favor of November 29th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been brought to my attention. In reply I beg to say that I have written to Organizer J. D. Pierce in regard to the matter of the loan of $30.00 which your union made to him during his recent visit to Wabash. You will please inform me immediately upon the receipt of this money from Mr. Pierce, or if you do not receive it by December 20th, please notify me upon that date. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*543*] LF December 6, 1909 Mr. H. E. Eldridge, Secretary, Federal Labor Union #12362, Galeton, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reply to your favor of December 2nd in regard to your local being represented in the Railroad Employes Department of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to say that under the laws of this Department, only national and international unions representing different branches of railway work are eligible to membership. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*544*] LF December 4, 1909 Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Please get me copies of the Neue Zeitung for the last six months. It can be gotten at the headquarters of the Socialist publication. With kind regards, and thanking you in advance for your kindness, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*545*] X. Dec. 6, 1909. NO.87. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: Enclosed you will please find copy of the petition in the application of "Gompers-Mitchell-Morrison", requesting the Supreme Court of the United States to grant the writ of certiorari. I also enclose to you herein a copy of the argument in support of the petition. Before this reaches you, you will have already learned that the Supreme Court today granted the application for the writ of certiorari. Thus the Supreme Court of the United States will take cognisance of the entire material facts and principles involved in the case. Counsel for the Buck's Stove and Range Company, Mr. Darlington, asked Mr. Ralston, of our counsel, to agree to the advancement of the case on the docket, and inasmuch as Mr. Mitchell Mr. Morrison and I had agreed beforehand that the case should be advanced, there is no doubt but what the decision will be reached earlier than ordinarily. I leave this afternoon for New York to attend a mass meeting for the more thorough organization of the Seamen of the Atlantic Coast, and then in accordance with the directions of the Toronto Convention, proceed to Cincinnati to attend the Convention[*546*] Executive Council --2--. of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers in the Paper Hangers dispute. From there I attend two meetings, and am then to be in attendance at the conference, to be held by direction of the Toronto Convention, at Pittsburg, Pa., in support of the Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Plate Workers, and other organizations affected by the controversy with the attitude assumed by the United States Steel Corporation. These engagements will keep me away from the office until Wednesday evening, December [seventeenth.] 15th. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*547*] Washington, D.C. Dec. 7, 1909. Mr. F. T. Hawley, St. Paul, Minn. President Gompers leaves New York today for Cincinnati. You can reach him through Vice President Valentine. R. LEE GUARD. Charge A. F. of L.[*548*] M December 7, 1909. Mr. Joseph F. Valentine, Sixth Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Mr. Valentine: President Gompers leaves New York sometime this afternoon for Cincinnati. He was not sure when I left him in Philadelphia yesterday afternoon at which hotel he would stop. I am sending him by this mail in your care some important papers, and would appreciate it very much if you would kindly see to it that they reach him as quickly as possible after his arrival in Cincinnati. With kind regards to both you and Mrs. Valentine, I am, Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.549 Form 1545. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Washington, D. C., Dec. 4, 1909. To Mr. Chas. H. Lee, Providence Journal Office, Providence, R. I. My oral opinion is repeated now that with the return of the Musicians Union Mr. Gamble is justly entitled to Presidency Central Body. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. ___Dr. to The Western Union Telegraph Co. For message to __ by __ dated __ 190 No. of Words __ Rate __ Amount $__ (Sgd.) __ Sender.550 X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. James Duncan, First Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: As you know, I have in accordance with the direction of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., issued a call for the Executive Officers of the International Unions to meet at the Monongahela House, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, Monday, December 13th, 1909. The Convention also directed that I attend that conference. I write for the purpose of saying that unless I can be at that conference to preside over its deliberations, you as First Vice President should do so. I take it that you will be in attendance there representing the Granite Cutters Interantional Association, but in any event, I repeat, if I am not permitted to be there, you should. I take it that it is unnecessary for me to call attention to the fact that while we ought to, within the full limit of our power, assist the men and the organization in whose particular interest this conference was called, that great care and caution are necessary lest some very serious mistake be made which is likely to react to the injury of the men, and the cause of labor. Possibly I may be able to attend the conference. It will all depend upon the decision of the Court. If I am permitted by the551 Mr. James Duncan --2-- Court's action, I shall be in attendance. In any event, I earnestly desire your attendance there, and in the possible contingency of my enforced absence that you will preside over the deliberations of the conference. With kindest regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.552 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. ORG'D. NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR Executive Council. President, SAMUEL GOMPERS. Secretary, FRANK MORRISON. Treasurer, JOHN B. LENNON, Bllomington, Ill. First Vice-President, JAMES DUNCAN, Hancock Bldg., Quincy, Mass. Second Vice-President, JOHN MITCHELL, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N. Y Third Vice-President, James O'CONNELL, 402-407 McGill Bldg., Washington, D. C. Fourth Vice-President, D. A. HAYES, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Fifth Vice-President, WM. D. HUBER, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Sixth Vice-President, JOS. F. VALENTINE, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Seventh Vice-President, JOHN R. ALPINE 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Eighth Vice-President, H. B. PERHAM, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE, MAIN 3871-2 CABLE ADDRESS, 'AFEL.' 801-809 G ST. N. W. Washington, D. C., December 4, 1909 Mr. John J. Manning, Secretary, Laundry Workers' International Union, 602 2nd Ave., Troy, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: It is with the greatest regret that I write you to say that circumstances have so shaped themselves as to make impossible for me to fulfill my engagement to attend the memorial exercises on the 12th inst., to be held in the memory of our dear friend the late Michael Muldoon. When I made the engagement, I did not forsee that the Toronto convention would direct me to attend the convention of the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators in Cincinnati next week and the conference of the executive officers of the affiliated national and international unions in Pittsburg on the 13th, and neither did I know that our application for writ of certiorari would be made to the Supreme Court of the United States. As you have seen through the press reports, the application was made last Monday. It is expected that the court will hand down its decision next Monday, the 5th. If the court grants the writ, then I will be able to proceed to Cincinnati, and in due time to Pittsburg for the opening of the conference on Monday morning the 13th. Should the court not grant the writ, then Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and I will surrender ourselves. I write you these matters so that you will understand553 the position in which I am placed. I also had an engagement to go to Tampa shortly after the close of the Toronto convention, but by reason of our case coming up in court, I was compelled to write to our friends there as I am to you now cancelling that engagement. It would be physically impossible for me to be in Troy Sunday afternoon and evening and reach Pittsburg in time to preside over the meeting on Monday morning, even supposing the court takes such action as will permit me to leave its jurisdiction. I want you to believe me when I say I am heart sick and disappointed at the thought of not being able to be present. Brother Muldoon was my life-long friend. I knew him well, how steadfast and true he was as a union man and as a man and friend, a man who loved his fellow man, one who sacrificed much in the great cause in which we are enlisted; indeed, there can be no question but that he sacrificed his life in his great work and devotion to the cause of labor and of humanity. I wanted to be present at the memorial exercises and have the opportunity of expressing something of the high regard in which I held him, something of my appreciation of his splendid work. It grieves me that I am denied that privileges. Again expressing my deep regret, I am, Fraternally yours, President America Federation of Labor.[*554*] LF Washington, D. C., Dec. 7,1909 Mr. John Mitchell, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N.Y. By reason of Toronto Convention directing President Gompers to attend conference executive officers National Unions Pittsburg December thirteenth he was compelled to cancel engagement to deliver address Muldoon Memorial services Troy the twelfth. John J. Manning six hundred two second Avenue Troy urges you should act. Please advise him. R. Lee Guard (Charge to A.F. of L.)555 LF December 7, 1909. Mr. Ferdinand Tannenbaum, Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Indiana. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 3rd is received and contents noted. You say that you will shortly take part in a debate upon the question: "Resolved, That the best interests of the laboring classes of the United States would be subserved by their organization into a national and separate political party", and you request me to advise you where you can obtain copies of the addresses made before the different Conventions of the American Federation of Labor, when the subject of political action was under discussion. In reply, I beg to say that the only reports made of such discussions are embodied in the official printed proceedings of the various Conventions. You should be able to refer to these proceedings at some one of the public libraries. In connection with this general subject matters your attention is called to those sections of my report to the two last Annual Conventions of the American Federation of Labor, in which I dealt with this matter. Copies are sent to you under separate cover. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, A. F. of L.556 LF December 6, 1909 Mr. J. R. T. Auston, Grand Secy. - Editor, Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Despatchers, Agents and Signalmen, Sibley Building, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 2nd instant and to thank you for the sentiments expressed therein, and for your good wishes in regard to himself. He would write to you personally, but is just leaving the city to fulfil a number of engagements made by direction of the Toronto Convention. He would be glad to hear from you whenever convenient. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.557 LF December 7, 1909 Mrs. Martha Moore Avery, 468 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, Mass. My dear Madam: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 29th, which he appreciates very highly. He directs me to say to you that he has had under consideration for sometime the matter of the publication in book form of the letters which he wrote upon his European trip. He is glad to know that you found them interesting. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers558 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. C. C. Yeabower, President, Local Union #26, Intl Bro. of Electrical Workers, 404 Eye St. N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the second instant is received and contents noted. I regret that we are unable to send you copy of the Ninth Day's Proceedings of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. containing the report of the Committee on Laws upon the subject of the Electrical Workers differences, as our supply of these is entirely exhausted. I beg to state, however, that as soon as the Printed Proceedings of the Toronto Convention are received from the printer, which will be sometime during the next few weeks, I shall be glad to send you copy. With kind regards, I beg to remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.559 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. Abraham Rosenberg, President, International Ladies' Garment Workers Union, 25 Third Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December third and to thank you for the two copies of injunctions which you enclose and which you called to his attention during the Toronto Convention of the Federation.. He would write to you personally, but is just leaving the city to keep a number of important engagements in conformity with the directions of the Toronto Convention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.560 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. Henry W. Bullock, Attorney at Law, Suites 415-416 Law Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 2nd which he read with much interest and he thanks you for the suggestions you offer. He will be pleased to hear from you further. Very truly yours, R Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.561 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Enclosed please find copy of letter which I have just received from the Secretary of Woolen Weavers' Union # 600 of Woonsocket, R. I., which is self-satisfactory. I have made no reply to this letter thus far, and before doing so would like your advice as to the information he desires in regard to Mr. H. S. Mills. Hoping to receive your early reply, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure: Copy. WOOLEN WEAVERS' UNION #600 Woonsocket, R. I. Dec. 3, 1909 Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres. of A. F. of L. Dear Sir and Brother: I wish to advise you that Woolen Weavers' Union of Woonsocket has contracted with H. S. Mills to issue a handbook or book-let and as he referred us to you I would like to know if you could recommend him, or give us any information concerning him, as this is urgent matter to us please answer at your earliest convenience. Fraternally yours, (Signed) Frank Fitzpatrick, Sec.563 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. E. E. Greenawalt, President, Pennsylvania Federation of Labor, 438 Nevin Street, Lancaster, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the fourth instant is received and contents noted. As stated in my previous letter, we will do the best we can in behalf of Pennsylvania. In your postscript you refer to the special convention of the State Branch to be held at Harrisburg next Thursday, December 9th and request that I should be present. In reply I beg to say that by direction of the Toronto Convention I shall, if permitted by the court, be in Cincinnati on that date to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Paper Hangers and Decorators. Then from there I go to Pittsburg to attend the conference of the executive officers of national and international unions as further directed by the Toronto Convention. You will thus see that it will not be within my power to attend your convention of the 9th. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.564 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. G. H. Anderson, 6148 Gambleter Pl., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: In reply to your letter of December 3rd, President Gompers directs me to send to your under separate cover copy of the reports of the officers of the Federation to the last Annual Convention, including his own, as well as some of the printed matter published by this office, including copy of the American Federationist, the official monthly publication of the A. F. of L. of which Mr. Gompers is editor. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. [**565**] X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. Louis Gompers, 28, Place Vendome, Paris, France. Dear Friend: Your favor of November third has been duly received, and we were all exceedingly glad to hear from you. I presume by this time you have received the picture of my father which I sent you, and also the copy of my report to the last annual Convention of the Federation, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20. We had a most interesting Convention, as well as its being one of the most important ever held in the history of our Federation. I received this morning several clippings from the Paris papers giving a brief cable account of my re-election to the Presidency of the American Federation of Labor. I would appreciate it, if not too much trouble, if you would kindly send me any clippings of this character which might come to your attention. We have made an appel to the Supreme Court of the United States for the write of certiorari. It is expected that the Court will give its decision on Monday next, whether the writ will be granted. If it is granted the carrying out of the sentences will depend upon the Supreme Court's decision on the writ. If the court will sustain our contention, of course, that will mean that the case will in all liklihood be dropped. If it does not sustain us, then[**566**] Mr. Louis Gompers --2-- it means the sentences begin the day the decision is rendered, and then of course must begin in greater earnestness the concentration of effort the movement to secure Congressional action. You asked me for the status of the case, hence the foregoing. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. [**567**] X. Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. John P. Frey, Member, Special Committee, Electrical Workers, 530 Walnut St., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: It occurred to me that I would better write you a line to say that I assume that the Federation will bear the expenses incurred by you as member of the special committee on the Electrical Workers matter. Of course, I expect that both organizations of Electrical Workers interested in the amalgamation will bear the expenses of the representatives that each organization has appointed. I write this as a reminder. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[**568**] X. Dec. 6, 1909. Hon. Seth Low, 30 East 64th Street, New York City. My dear Mr. Low: I regretted exceedingly to have missed you last week when you called on me at my office. Occasionally when I am very much crowded with work, I find it necessary to remain at my house and have my secretary join me there in order to consider important matters and plan out future work. The day that you called I had remained at home for this purpose and when I came to the office I was told that just five minutes before I came in you had been here. I called you up at the New Willard several times, but was unable to get you, and after returning home that evening, I again called, but still without success. Again expressing my regret that I should have missed you, and hoping for the opportunity of seeing you soon, either here or in New York, I am, Sincerely and cordially yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 569 X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. H. D. Tyler, Secretary, Brockton Joint Label League, Room 5, 26 Center St., Brockton, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your undated favor is received today and contents noted. You say that the Brockton Joint Label League will hold a label exhibit in Brockton, January 3-7, 1910, and you extend to me an invitation to visit the exhibit and deliver an address any evening which will be most convenient to me. I want to thank you for your invitation and at the same time to assure you of my earnest hope for the success of your exhibit. As you know, the American Federation of Labor is doing everything within its power in the way of education and agitation along union label lines. This is particularly true of the Union Label Department which has been formed during the past year as part of the A. F. of L. Now as to your invitation, I regret to say that my engagements already made are of such a nature as to make it impossible for me to accept the invitation. With kind regards, and again expressing the hope for the success of your exhibit, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.570 X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. Hans Fehlinger, Lachner St. 4a, Munich, Germany. Dear Friend: Your favor of November fifteenth has been duly received, and read with a very great deal of interest. In fact, I regard your letter as of such exceeding interest I am writing to request your permission to have it published. I hesitate to do so without first consulting you, and I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard thereto at your early convenience. I shall be glad to send you copy of the official printed proceedings of the Toronto Convention just as soon as the complete bound copy is published. In the meantime, in compliance with your request, I am sending you copy of the reports made by Secretary Morrison and myself to the Toronto Convention, though I imagine that by this time you have received the copy of my report which I directed should be sent to you the day the Convention opened, that is, November eighth. With kindest regards, in which Mrs. and Miss Gompers join, and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.571 X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. Joaquin Rodriquez Serra, Attorney, Labor Union of the Philippine Islands, Box 105, Manila, P. I. Dear Sir: Your favor of October 25th has just been received, and I have also before me your previous letter, to which partial reply was made by my secretary. Of course I should like to see the workers of the Philipine Islands organized, and organized as far as possible upon the plan outlined by the American labor movement, that is, the organization of the workers in their separate trades and callings, each having a union for itself and a General Federation to be made up of bona fide representatives of the membership of the various unions to be conducted in the interests of the working people and for the benefit of the Philippine people in general. If my words have any weight, any influence at all, I trust that they may be directed in such a course as will persuade the Philippine workers to calm, dignified and practical action, and to bear in mind that progress is not as fast as we would wish it to be, and that ills of thousands of years cannot be eradicated in a day. It may be in some time in the future, when the organization of the workers in the Philippines has assumed some position nearer that of the form of the American labor movement, that affiliation572 Mr. Joaquin Rodriguez Serra --2-- may be established to the American Federation of Labor. In the meantime, all may rest assured that anything which the American Federation of Labor, or which I may be enabled to do for the protection and advancement of the rights and interests of the Philippine people, will be cordially and readily performed. I should be glad to hear from you again whenever convenient. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*573*] X. Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. Lewis B. Schwellenbach, 1023 Fifth Avenue, Spokane, Washington. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 23rd has been duly received. You say that you are to take part in a debate on the negative side of the question, "Resolved, that the juries should be abolished", and that you will be required to deal with the subject of the jury as a social and political institution; you then request me to give you such information as I can that will be helpful to you in the preparation of your debate. In the old days when the physical prowess of the individual dominated, his will became supreme and he gathered unto himself a number of physically stalwart men and they conquered. He with the greatest physical prowess was the leader, and the one who finally constituted himself king. Those of his menials, slaves or subjects who fought against his authority, those who violated the rules, laws and proclamations issued by the king, were brought before the king and punished by him as his whim might dictate. This was equally true as to the innocent persons against whom the king or any of his satellites or favorites had some particular grudge or purpose to serve. Charges of that sort were made and the king was the sole judge574 Mr. Lewis B. Schwellenback---2--- as to the guilt or innocence of the accused and the extent of the punishment. In the course of time the abuses which grew up under such a system made life, honor and virtue an easy prey to the wiles of the unscrupulous or of the varying moods of the king. Indeed, so general did the abuses become that to attend to every detail was more than the king found time to do, and he appointed judges, who were responsible to him alone, for carrying his edicts into effect. These judges, anxious to serve, to bask in the smiles of the king for favors received and for others yet to come, become more severe in their punishments, more general in their convictions, and, fearing to incur the disfavor of their sovereign, were touched less by sympathy, sentiment, or mercy, [*than he.*] Indeed, the abuses became so general that a mighty revolt occurred among the people, who demanded and secured from the king the document of human liberty, Magna Charta. Among the things which the people wrung from an unwilling king was the right of twelve representatives of the people themselves to act as a jury to determine the guilt or innocence of the person charged with violating the law. Let me quote a few paragraphs from the Magna Charta, wrung from King John by the English people at Runnymede, June 15, 1215. Section 38 of Magna Charta reads: "No bailiff, on his own simple assertion, shall henceforth put any one to his law, without producing faithful witnesses in evidence." Section 39: "No freeman shall be taken, or imprisoned, or disseized, or outlawed, or exiled, or in any way harmed * * * * * save by the lawful judgment of his peers. * * * * *575 Mr. Lewis B. Schwellenbach --3-- Section 63: "Wherefore we will and firmly decree * * * * * that the subjects of our realm shall have and hold all the aforesaid liberties, rights and concessions, duly and in peace, freely and quietly, fully and entirely, for themselves and their heirs, from us and our heirs, in all matters and in all places, forever, as has been said. * * * * * * *" One of the causes set forth in the Declaration of Independence for the severance of the American Colonies from the British crown is thus set forth in the immemorial document: "For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury." When the people of the United States established their independence and formed a more perfect union, to establish justice and ensure domestic tranquility, they adopted a constitution. Article 3, section 2, of that Constitution reads in part: "The trial of all crimes, except in cases of impeachment, shall be by jury." * * * * You will note that I have not submitted to you any argument on this question, but have simply stated a few facts known to every school boy; and yet, in this year of grace, 1909, the subject, "Resolved, that juries should be abolished", is to be discussed in a Western State of the Republic of the United States as if it were debatable! But may I say in conclusion, the thought occurs to me that you young men are not really debating this question under the necessity of [bettering] settling your minds as to which side has the truth in regard to it. Most probably you would all fight gallantly in defense of trial by jury were any tyrannical power to try to abolish it in this country. You are convinced as your fathers have been, that it is one of the bulwarks of your liberties. If this be so, are you not trifling with morality -- that is to say the truth itself -- is consenting to utter, or have one of your friends utter,576 Mr. Lewis B. Schwellenbach ---4--- words that violate your sense of right and of patriotism? It is very well for college authorities to inspire students with a love of learning, but learning ought to be gained by legitimate methods. The student who pays more attention to mere literary form or to the arts of elocution than to the substance of his thought and sentiment, trifles with his better nature. He runs the danger or substituting showy acquirements for the essentials of character. Instead of hollow rehearsals in rhetoric and oratory, it would be better for your teachers to instill in you a repugnance for any one who, even in make-believe, familiarizes himself with repeating what he does not believe. Instead of striving for the petty victories of the debating club, you should early learn the inestimable value of inflexibly adhering, in every word and action, to the truth, in order to gain the moral triumphs of life that ensue upon the up- building of character. If you are ever assigned to speak on the side of a question that calls upon you to trifle with a serious principle of private or public morals, I pray you to lose the laurels of the petty forensic arena to gain the crown of your own self-respect and lasting self- approval by refusing to take part in the unworthy proceeding. Imagine what our nation might be if composed of glib, polished, accomplished falsifiers. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.577 M December 4, 1909. Mr. James T. Carroll, Manager, Catholic Columbian, Columbus, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 2nd instant reaches me just as I am leaving the city, and it is impossible at this moment for me to comply with your request. Upon my return to my office, which will be in the course of ten days, I shall be very glad to take up the subject matter of your letter and write to you fully. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.578 M December 6, 1909. Mr. Irwin J. Wirth, Secretary, United Labor Congress, P. O. Box 219, Youngstown, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30th is at hand, in which you state that at a regular meeting of the United Labor Congress, held November 26, John Graney was unanimously endorsed as volunteer organizer for Youngstown and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with this request and recommendation, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Graney 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'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.579 M December 6, 1909. Mr. Cal Wyatt, Tod House, Youngstown, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 1st has been received relative to the appointment of Brother John Graney, and in reply beg to say that we are also in receipt of a letter from the United Labor Congress endorsing Brother Graney, and commission has been issued and forwarded to him. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.580 M December 6, 1909. Mr. A. W. Smith, Secretary, South Chicago Trades and Labor Assembly, 7512 Coles Ave., South Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor dated November 23rd was received here December 4, in which you state that the Trades and Labor Assembly requests the withdrawal of the volunteer organizer's commissions held by H. W. McGary and Albert Michau, and in accordance therewith their names will be removed from our list. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.581 M December 7, 1909. Mr. Charles Eaton, Organizer, 749 East Laurence St., Decatur, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30th has been received relative to charter and outfit of Laborers Protective Union #12828, and beg to say that charter and outfit were received November 20th, for which please accept our thanks. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.582 M December 7, 1909. Miss Gertrude Beeks, Secretary, Welfare Department, National Civic Federation, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. My dear Miss Beeks: Your favor of December 4th enclosing stenographic report of the address made by Mr. Gompers at the first session of the annual meeting of the Civic Federation on November 22-23, was received yes- terday. He revised it yesterday afternoon on the train on his way to New York, and I return it to you herein. This morning yours of the 6th enclosing the stenographic report of his address at the banquet is received. From New York he goes to Cincinnati and Pittsburg, and I am sending the manuscript on to him, and hope that he will have the opportunity of revising it in Cincinnati, but I doubt he can do so. In any event, I will try and return it to you at the earliest possible moment. With sincere regards, I am, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard. Sec. to President Gompers.583 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. J. J. Flynn, Secretary, Brotherhood of Railroad Freight Handlers, 409 South Halstead St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from Organizer Gus Haas, Dayton, Ohio, in which he says that an opportunity presents itself for him to organize the shippers and packers of Dayton. I am writing to enquire whether your organization claims jurisdiction over this class of work. Please advise me in regard thereto at your early con- venience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.584 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. B. F. Macmasters, Manager, The Columbia Law Reporting Company, 135-137 Broadway, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the second instant is at hand and contents noted. Yes, I recall having met you in Milwaukee at the Cigar Makers' meeting about twelve or thirteen years ago, and I am glad to know that you have gotten so well established in your special line of work. Yes, my duties as President of the American Federation of Labor necessitate my visiting New York quite frequently and though I am always, as you can imagine, exceedingly busy on these trips, yet I would be pleased at some convenient time to have the opportunity of renewing our acquaintance, even though briefly. I shall certainly keep your suggestion in mind and if at any time in New York I should have need of the services of a member of your corps of reporters, I shall be glad to call upon you. Very sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.585 NO. 86. X. Dec. 6, 1909. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: You will recall the discussion we had and the action we took at our meeting in Toronto on Sunday, after the adjournment of the Convention, in regard to the trouble in San Francisco with the San Francisco Call. Within the last day or two I have received a letter and a number of telegrams bearing upon this subject, several of the telegrams and the letter having come from Mr. H. N. Kellogg, Presi- dent of the Newspaper Publishers' Association of Chicago. For the information of the members of the Executive Council, I enclose herein copies of Mr. Kellogg's letter and telegrams, marked "Exhibit A", copy of my telegraphic reply, marked "Exhibit B", copy of my telegram to Andrew J. Gallagher of San Francisco, marked "Exhibit C". copy of telegram from George A. Tracy of San Francisco, marked "Exhibit D", copy of telegram from James J. Freel of Brooklyn, marked "Exhibit E", copy of telegram from President James M. Lynch, marked "Exhibit F". You will notice that I very emphatically resent the demand of the Newspaper Publishers' Association. In all liklihood we will be required to take this matter up further at our meeting in January, but in the meantime it seemed to me that the members of the Executive Council should be furnished586 Executive Countil - 2 - with copies of the correspondence as indicated herein. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.587 EXHIBIT A. COPY. "AMERICAN NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION, Chicago, Ill., Dec. 4, 1909. My dear Mr. Gompers: Referring to the matter of the cancellation of the charter for the Solicitors Union of San Francisco beg to say it seems to me your Council must reach the conclusion after consideration of the documents submitted and the protest of Messrs. Lynch and Freel against the continuation of this union, that its charter should be cancelled. If, however, you should not reach this conclusion kindly defer final decision, and call a meeting for some future date and permit representatives of the San Francisco publishers, and the American Newspaper Publishers Association to appear before your Council and present arguments in support of their views. A compliance with this request will be sincerely appreciated. Very truly yours, (Signed) H. N. Kellogg, Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. " ----------------------------------- "Chicago, Ill., Dec. 4, 1909. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Am informed San Francisco Labor Council declared intention last night to boycott Call against protest of allied printing trades thus disregarding your telegram of November twenty first. Please act at once and vigorously. It is an outrage to even consider boycotting a good union Newspaper. American Newspaper Publishers Association demands prompt action and immediate cancellation of charter of solicitors union. Please wire me advising what you do. (Signed) H. N. Kellogg." --------------------------------------------------- "Chicago, Ill., Dec. 6, 1909. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Every "Sense of right and justice" imperatively demands that the injustice of a boycott be not inflicted upon "fair" publishers employing union men. Will you inform me of your decision and action regarding the proposed boycott in San Francisco. (Signed) H. N. Kellogg." ------------------------------------------------- "Chicago, Ill., Dec. 6, 1909. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Wired Saturday regarding threatened boycott of San Francisco Call. Please wire stating what action you have taken if any. If nothing has yet been done please act at once and vigorously. (Signed) H. N. Kellogg." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------588 EXHIBIT B. "Washington, D. C., Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. H. N. Kellogg, President, Newspaper Publishers Association, Chicago, Ill. Am acting as Federation laws and Executive Council direct. In matters of issuance of charters and their cancellation, we will be prompted by our sense of right and justice [?] upon immediate demands made upon us. (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EXHIBIT C. "Washington, D. C., Dec, 6 1909. Mr. Andrew J. Gallagher, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Cal. Protests from every printing trade involved received against declared intention Labor Council imposing boycott on San Francisco Call. In interest of entire labor movement and all principles involved in trade unionism, I urge compliance with my telegrams and letter sent you by direction of Executive Council. (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EXHIBIT D. "San Francisco, Cal., Dec. 4, 09. Frank Morrison, Headquarters A. F. of L., Washington, D. C. Labor Council last night declared intention boycotting Morning Call account newspaper [?] editors request. Action taken [?] protest printing trades Unions and [?] [?] [?] or consent American Federation this will be disastrous fight. If solicitors wont obey American Federation, they are not worthy to hold charter. Strongly advise prompt action. (Signed) Geo. A. Tracy." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EXHIBIT E. "Brooklyn, N. Y., Dec. 4, 1909. Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Have just been notified that San Francisco Labor Council proposing to Boycott San Francisco Call a newspaper employing Union men in all its mechanical departments in behalf of our Union. I emphatically protest and request Executive Council to take immediate steps to prevent consummation of this outrage. (Signed) James J. Freel." --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EXHIBIT F. "Winnipeg, Man., Dec. 5, 1909. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Understand San Francisco Labor Council intends boycott of Call. Unless stopped will mean most serious situation for us and therefore protest. (Signed) James [?] Lynch." --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------589 M December 8, 1909. Mr. C. M. Sanford, Platteville, Wisconsin. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 3rd instant is at hand, in which you say that the Milwaukee State Normal School is to debate the following "Resolved, that labor unions as conducted during the past twenty-five years have shown a tendency detrimental to the best interests of the United States," and desire information and literature on this subject. In reply I beg to say that 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 has 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 beneficial to the country, rather than prejudicial. Under separate cover I am sending you a few documents which are published by the American Federation of Labor, setting forth the methods which are pursued as well as the principles for which we stand. I am also sending you copy of the February issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for 1901, which contains a brief resume of the statements I made in addresses to students and the Professor of Cornell University.590 C. M. S. 2. May I ask if anything is printed or published upon the debate that you will forward the same to me? Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 591 M December 8, 1909 Mr. A. D. Hill, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Bos 225, Miami, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant is at hand, and beg today that commission as volunteer organizer for Miami and vicinity is issued and forwarded to you under separate cover. There is also forwarded to you a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure you will find of assistance in the discharge of your 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. 592 M December 8, 1909 Mr. G. H. Thompson, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 921-18th St., Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 30th is at hand, in which you desire to know the cost of a cut of the labels of the different internationals. In reply I beg to say that we have just gotten out a revised union label bulletin, from which we are going to have electros made. I can not say just at this time what the price will be, but it will be just sufficient to cover the cost of having them made. If you will write again in the course of a week or two, and I will probably then be able to advise the cost and when they will be finished. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.593 M December 8, 1909. Mr. W. B. Parker, Organizer 56 Paisley St., Guelph, Ontario Dear Sir and Brother: Your report for the month of November has been received, and beg to say that the charter outfit was forwarded November 30, 1909, and trust same has been received. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*594*] M December 8, 1909. Dr. A. E. Briggs, 1005 K St., N. E., Sacramento, Cal. Dear Sir: I am directed by President Gompers to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 18, enclosing notes for Mr. Gompers consideration. They will be brought to his attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.595 M December 8, 1909. Mr. M. Caborn, Labor Information Office for Italians, 59 Lafayette (formerly Elm) St., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 1st instant is at hand in which you request us to send copy of the Official Report of the last Conference of the National Civic Federation, and in reply I beg to refer you to Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Secretary of the National Civic Federation, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. He can no doubt furnish you with the Report you desire. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor596 M December 8, 1909. Mr. T. P. Menton, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Bureau of Labor and Industry, Topeka, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th ultimo is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that after consultation with Secretary Morrison I find that at present the appointment of additional special organizers is not within our power. The state of the Federation treasury is in such a condition as not to permit the assumption at this time of additional financial obligation for this line of work. In the past few days we have received letters of similar character to all of which we have been compelled, although regretfully, to reply in line with this letter to you. I can only say if circumstances shape themselves differently later we will be glad to give the matter our best consideration. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 597 M December 8, 1909. Mr. Winfield Ross, Blair, Nebraska. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 27th is at hand in which you state the Inter-High School is to debate the following question "Resolved, that Labor Unions are, on the whole, beneficial," and that you believe in the affirmative side. Enclosed you will 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-ninth year 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 17th 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.598 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 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. 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 not. The labor union is the poor man's college and university. In a legislative 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 of company stores; anti-coer-599 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 satisfactory 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 upon 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-600 cussion. 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, Samuel 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.601 M December 8, 1909. Mr. B. W. E. Hahn, Blair City Schools, Blair, Nebraska. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 1, is at hand, in which you request material on the question "Resolved, That labor unions are on the whole beneficial." You have, however, failed to state on which side of the question you are to debate. I presume from the tenor of your letter it is the affirmative, and have just written letter similar to this to Mr. Winifield Ross, of your town. Enclosed you will 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 if its growth and progress during the twenty-ninth year 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 in the 17th 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 share or consult these at some public library.602 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 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. 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 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 legislative 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 couple laws; regular payment; abolition of company stores; anti-coercion603 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 satisfactory 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 upon 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 discussion.604 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, Samuel 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.605 M December 8, 1909. Mr. John J. Manning, Secretary, Laundry Workers' International Union, 602 Second Ave., Troy, N. Y. Dear Sir: Upon receipt of your telegram to President Gompers yesterday in regard to requesting Mr. Mitchell to make an address at the Michael Muldoon memorial meeting, next Sunday, December 12, I immediately wired Mr. Mitchell advising him of your request and asking him to communicate with you direct in regard thereto. Mr. Gompers had left the city for Cincinnati when your telegram was received. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.606 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. Geo. L. Norton, 401 N Leves St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant has been duly received and contents noted. In reply to your inquiry regarding having the "Old Federated No. 5464" reorganized and charter issued to them, I would state that since that organization has gone out of existence there has been formed the International Brotherhood of Stationary Fireman affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. If the men about whom you write are stationary firemen they will, of course, have to obtain charter from the International claiming jurisdiction over that class of workmen. If they are city firemen, then the American Federation of Labor can issued charter to them. Kindly furnish me with the desired information on this matter, when I will again take it up with you. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*607*] LF December 8, 1909 Mr. James L. Cowles, Secretary-Treasurer, The Postal Progress League, 361 Broadway, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the third instant, which will be brought to his attention as soon as possible after his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*608*] LF December 6, 1909 Mr. E. E. Greenawalt, 438 Nevin Street, Lancaster, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December fourth is just received just as I am leaving the city for ten days absence on important work as outlined by the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor. I am, therefore, making a hurried reply and would say that I am not sure that we are going to have an additional member of the Legislative Committee. The appointment of an additional member has not yet been considered, for obvious reasons. Please pardon the brevity of this letter, for the reasons above indicated. With assurances of my personal regard and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*609*] LF December 8, 1909 Mr. Cornelius H. Fauntleroy, Attorney and Counsellor at Law, 520 Olive St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the fourth instant which will be brought to his attention as soon as possible after his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.610 LF December 6, 1909 Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the fourth instant is received and I read it with a great deal of interest and am in full accord with the views you express. When Mr. Mitchell was here, I spoke to him in regard to the situation. I trust that the effort to bring about an adjustment of the contest between the Waist Makers and the manufacturers will be successful. They are new recruits in the labor movement. They have little or no experience. It is simply impossible for them to remedy all the wrongs and ills that have grown up in the trade for so many years. If the strike comes to a conclusion with some substantial concessions to the organization, they will be doing well. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.611 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. Charles H. Miller, Member, Local #195, J.B.I.U. of A., Box 874, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th has been duly received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to suggest that you have the Central Labor Union of Seattle write me in regard to the subject matter of your candidacy for the mayorship of Seattle. I will then endeavor to give the matter the promptest attention possible. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.612 LF December 6,1909 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #20. Mr. J. J. Fitzpatrick, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Rooms 501-3, 277 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: By Resolution #20 of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, the President of the Federation was instructed to make a thorough investigation of the merits of the claims of the Jewelry Workers as set forth in that resolution, with a view of securing an adjustment of the matters to which reference is made therein. For convenience, I quote Preambles and Resolutions #20, which are as follows: "WHEREAS, Local No. 18 of the Jewelry Workers at Chicago was railroaded from representation in Chicago Central Body at the request of a firm that used questionable methods with their Label, and the work of organization was hindered by firms in Boston and New York, who found ready allies in several unions to lend their aid to defeat us in thoroughly organizing our industry, by granting the use of their label in shops where one to two employes were secured where one hundred to two hundred were eligible to our union, thereby making it appear to those unfamiliar with the industry that question of jurisdiction or disagreement was with the workers, when in face it was a lineup for the protection of said employers; and WHEREAS, Local in New York was denied the seating of their delegates, also seating of delegates in Central Body, on evasive claim that we controlled no shop there when application was presented there, thus depriving us of our right to present our claims and privileges as granted us in our International Charter; WHEREAS, There has been an erroneous impression created by some employers evading the organization of Jewelry Workers in their establishments and using the labels of other crafts to mislead organized labor; we hereby affirm that the Jewelry Workers label shall be recognized covering articles of jewelry and novelties, badges613 Mr. J. J. Fitzpatrick--2 and buttons; therefore be it RESOLVED, That all assistance be rendered the Jewelry Workers to increase the growth of their organization, and Central Bodies be instructed to give unbiased and fair treatment to the Jewelry Workers in preference to employers in said industry; be it further RESOLVED, That the American Federation of Labor, in Convention assembled in Toronto, November, 1909, demand of all affiliated unions when purchasing badges, novelties or jewelry for presentations or other purposes, that said articles bear the Jewelers Union Label." I am, therefore, writing to you as the special representative of the Federation in Chicago, with the request that you make an investigation of the complaints made as to the situation in Chicago. Of course you will report fully to me as to the result of your investigation and at the same time making such recommendation as you may deem advisable in the premises. I am writing a letter similar to this to Organizer Robinson of New York City and I would appreciate your and his prompt attention to the matter. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.614 LF December 6, 1909 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #20. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: By Resolution #20 of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, the President of the Federation was instructed to make a thorough investigation of the merits of the claims of the Jewelry Workers as set forth in that resolution, with a view of securing an adjustment of the matters to which reference is made therein. For convenience, I quote preambles and Resolutions #20, which are as follows: "WHEREAS, Local No. 18 of the Jewelry Workers at Chicago was railroaded from representation in Chicago Central Body at the request of a firm that used questionable methods with their Label, and the work of organization was hindered by firms in Boston and New York, who found ready allies in several unions to lend their aid to defeat us in thoroughly organizing our industry, by granting the use of their label in shops where one to two employees were secured where one hundred to two hundred were eligible to our union, thereby making it appear to those unfamiliar with the industry that question of jurisdiction or disagreement was with the workers, when in fact it was a lineup for the protection of said employers; and WHEREAS, Local in New York was denied the seating of their delegates, also seating of delegates in Central Body, on evasive claim that we controlled no shop there when application was presented there, thus depriving us of our right to present our claims and privileges as granted us in our International Charter; WHEREAS, There has been an erroneous impression created by some employers evading the organization of Jewelry Workers in their establishments and using the labels of other crafts to mislead organized labor; we hereby affirm that the Jewelry Workers label shall be recognized covering articles of jewelry and novelties [?]615 Mr. Herman Robinson --2 and buttons; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That all assistance be rendered the Jewelry Workers to increase the growth of their organization, and Central Bodies be instructed to give unbiased and fair treatment to the Jewelry Workers in preference to employers in said industry; be it further RESOLVED, That the American Federation of Labor, in Convention assembled in Toronto, November, 1909, demand of all affiliated unions when purchasing badges, novelties or jewelry for presentations or other purposes, that said articles bear the Jewelers Union Label." I am, therefore, writing to you as the special representa- tive of the Federation in New York, with the request that you make an investigation of the complaints made as to the situation in New York, and as far as you can by correspondence, as to the situa- tion in Boston as set forth in the above quoted preambles and res- olutions. Of course you will report fully to me as to the result of your investigation and such recommendation as you deem advisable to make in the premises. I am writing a letter similar to this to Organizer Fitzpatrick of Chicago and I would appreciate your and his prompt attention to the matter. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.613 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. Michael Goldsmith, Bartenders' Union Local #108, 1856 E 6th St., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: Acknowledging receipt of your favor of the 3rd instant, I beg to advise you that President Gompers has, by direction of the Toronto Convention, gone to Cincinnati to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Paperhangers and Decorators. From there he will go to Pittsburg to attend a conference of the executive officers of the national and international union on December 13th. I am, therefore, making this acknowledgement of the receipt of your letter and at the same time to advise you that it has been referred to Secretary Morrison. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.617 LF December 8, 1909 Dr. Charles W. Eliot, President, National Conservation Association, Fifth Avenue Building, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the first instant and to say to you that I will endeavor to call your letter to his attention as early as possible after his return, which will not be for about ten days. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.618 LF December 6, 1909 Mr. James Leonard, 2315 Royal St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December second is received and contents noted. I am dictating this and it is authentic, though it will not be under my personal signature. I am writing you just before leaving to fulfill important engagements as directed by the Toronto Convention. I have seen the matters to which you refer and regret, more than I can tell you, that it is simply impossible for me to take any action in the premises. If I were to re-open this case there are men in Jacksonville who would publish the whole matter connected with you in every detail. I wish in the interests of yourself and your good wife that you should, and I must, let the matter remain where it is. I know your years of good work in the interests of labor and there are but few things which have occurred in the labor movement which caused me more genuine sorrow than when the incidents transpired which made it necessary for the severance of your official connection with the labor movement. I wish it were otherwise. I wish I could do something, for personally I assure you that I have a great regard for your attainments, ability and sincerity and the best of wishes619 Mr. James Leonard --2 for you and Mrs. Leonard. As one who knows what otherwise might result, I would advise you to put out of your mind the possibility that you can act, at least for some considerable time to come, as an organizer for the American Federation of Labor. I trust that you may find some congenial, and I hope more lucrative, occupation. With kindest regards to you and Mrs. Leonard, and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.620 LF December 8,1909 Mr. I. R. Turckheim, 300 Brook Ave., Bronx, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 5th which will be brought to Mr. Gompers' attention upon his return and he will endeavor to reply. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.621 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. Charles H. Sheraton, International Seamen's Union of America, 514 Dumaine St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the third instant is received and contents noted. In reply to your request, I am sending to you under separate cover one of my photographs, which you will please accept with my sincere good wishes. If you will write direct to Mr. Mitchell, whose address appears on this letterhead, you will no doubt be able to secure one of his. I am referring your request for Secretary Morrison's photograph direct to him and he will reply thereto. The name of the photographers who made the picture of the delegates to the Toronto Convention is the Panoramic Camera Company, 127 Sherbourne St., Toronto, Canada. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.622 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. Ed. McEachern, President, The Cleveland Federation of Labor, 1856 E Sixth St., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: Acknowledging receipt of your favor of the 3rd instant I beg to advise you that President Gompers has, by direction of the Toronto Convention, gone to Cincinnati to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Paperhangers and Decorators. From there he will go to Pittsburg to attend a conference of the executive officers of the national and international union on December 13th. I am, therefore, making this acknowledgment of the receipt of your letter and at the same time to advise you that it has been referred to Secretary Morrison. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.623 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. Harry D. Thomas, 717 Superior Ave. N.E., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: Acknowledging receipt of your favor of December 2nd, I beg to advise you that President Gompers has, by direction of the Toronto Convention, gone to Cincinnati to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Paperhangers and Decorators. From there he will go to Pittsburg to attend a conference of the executive officers of the national and international unions on December 13th. I am, therefore, making this acknowledgement of the receipt of your letter and at the same time to advise you that it has been referred to Secretary Morrison. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.624 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. Harry D. Thomas, 717 Superior Ave. N. E., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: Acknowledging receipt of your favor of the 4th instant I beg to advise you that President Gompers has, by direction of the Toronto Convention, gone to Cincinnati to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Paperhangers and Decorators. From there he will go to Pittsburg to attend a conference of the executive officers of the national and international unions on December 13th. I am, therefore, making this acknowledgment of the receipt of your letter and at the same time to advise you that it has been referred to Secretary Morrison. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.625 LF December 7, 1909 Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Chairman Executive Council, The National Civic Federation, 10096 Metropolitan Building, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the second instant, I beg to advise you that the Executive Council, at its meeting in Toronto, just after the close of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, decided that as many as possible of the members of the Executive Council should attend the conference on Uniform Legislation which has been called by the National Civic Federation, to be held in this city, January 17-18-19, 1910. In all probability the Executive Council will hold a meeting at headquarters about the time of the Conference on Uni- form Legislation. In that event, doubtless all of the members of the Executive Council will attend the Conference on Uniform Legis- lation. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.626 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Samuel Graydon, Arch Booster, The Boost Club of New York 201 E. 12th Street, New York City. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December fourth in which on behalf of the Board of Governors of your Club, you extend an invitation to President Gompers to be your Guest of Honor at your Sixth Anniversary Banquet at the Hotel Astor on Friday, January 28th. Mr. Gompers is now in the West by reason of a number of important engagements, and is not expected to return to his office for a week or ten days. I will endeavor to bring your letter to his attention at the earliest possible moment after his return, when he will write you personally. In the meantime, I thank you in his name for the courtesy of your invitation. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.627 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. H. B. Perham, President, Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Missouri. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your very interesting and important letter of December fifth, together with newspaper clipping in regard to a recent de- cision by a South Carolina court. I shall certainly bring your letter to Mr. Gompers' attention at the earliest possible moment after his return next week. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.628 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. P. J. McArdle, President Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, House Bldg., Smithfield and Water Streets, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the sixth instant, in which you suggest his delivering several addresses in Ohio and Pennsylvania in the interest of your Association. Mr. Gompers is now on his way to Cincinnati to attend the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Paper Hangers and Decorators as directed by the Toronto Convention, and from there he will go to Pittsburg and preside over the confer- ence of the Executive Officers of National and International Unions, on Monday, December thirteenth, when you will no doubt have the opportunity of personally speaking to him in regard to this matter. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.629 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Wm. J. Smith, President, South Carolina State Federation of Labor, R. F. D. #3, Columbia, S. C. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the fifth instant in which you make a report of the work you have thus far done under the arrangements made with you by this office for you to do organizing work to the extent of One Hundred Dollars. You also enclose bill for $29.60 which will be handed to Secretary Morrison, who will send you check covering the same. Please make report to President Gompers of the further organization trips that you make. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.630 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Hon. William Sulzer, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and acknowledging receipt of your favor of the seventh instant, I beg to thank you in his name for your courtesy in continuing his office upon your list to receive the Congressional Record for the remainder of the Sixty-First Congress. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.631 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Geo. T. Bert, 217 Scott Street, Youngstown, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and acknowledging receipt of your favor of November thirtieth, I beg to thank you in his name for the offer of your services to the Federation. Should he be able to avail himself thereof, he will write you direct. In the meantime, memorandum will be made of your letter for future reference. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.632 X. Dec. 6, 1909, Mr. John F. McNamee, Editor, Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen's Magazine, 807 Traction Terminal Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the first, also the copy of December issue of your magazine, both of which will be brought to his personal at- tention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.633 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Wm. Delahay, Secretary. Amalgamated Society of Engineers, 74 Lafayette Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the sixth instant to hand and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that the Constitution as revised by the Toronto Convention, has not yet been reprinted, but I will be glad to let you have a copy when it is, and would suggest that you write me again in the course of the next four or five weeks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.634 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. James B. Peterson, 160 Bleecker Street, New York City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the sixth instant in which you enclose manuscript for publication in the American Federationist, which will be held for his personal attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.635 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. J. J. McLaughlin, President, Telegraphers Legislative Board, 1516 North Dover Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and replying to your favor of December sixth, I beg to enclose to you herein list of affiliated National and International Unions, giving the names and addresses of their respective secretaries. You can no doubt secure direct from them the list of their local unions in the State of Pennslyvania. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.633 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Chairman, Executive Council, National Civic Federation, Metropolitan Building, New York City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December sixth in which, in compliance with his request, you send him a copy of the address delivered by Presi- dent Low at the opening session of the annual meeting of the Civic Federation. Permit me to thank you in his name for your courtesy. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.637 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Julius Kern, 128 West 87th Street, New York City. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of December fourth, I am sending to you under separate cover copy of the reports made by Secretary Morrison to the annual Conventions of the Federation in 1907 and 1908, from which you will note the actual membership upon which per capita tax was paid to the Federation. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.638 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mrs. Rachel Foster Avery, Chairman, National American Women's Suffrage Association, Committee on Petition to Congress, 1823 H St., N. W., City. My dear Madam: Beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 5th, from Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, addressed to President Gompers. As he is now in the West fulfilling a number of important engagements, I make this acknowledgment of the receipt of your letter until such time as he can give it his personal attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.639 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, c/o Mr. Joseph Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. My dear Mr. Gompers: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which was received here yesterday from the Secretary of the International Ladies' Garment Workers Union, requesting financial assistance from the Executive Council. There was so many things requiring my attention yesterday that I did not even get the opportunity of reading the mail until last night after dinner, or otherwise the enclosed would have been sent to you yesterday. I have notified Secretary Dyche that you were absent, that I would try to get into communication with you, or otherwise you would make reply to him as early as possible after your return on the fifteenth. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard640 COPY. INTERNATIONAL LADIES' GARMENT WORKERS UNION. 25-27 Third Ave. New York, Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am instructed by the General Executive Board of our International Union, which met yesterday at this office, to apply to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor for Financial assistance for the strike of Waist Makers of Local 25 of this International Union. So far we succeeded in settling with about 200 smaller shops and from four to five thousand have gone back to work under union conditions. There are over 100 firms still on strike with about 12,000 strikers. We are certain that if we can provide them with financial assistance for the next few weeks we will win, there is no doubt about this, for the season is now just commencing and in the middle of January there will be a great scarcity of hands and the manufacturers will have to capitulate. You will understand that it is impossible to levy a tax on those working to keep up the 12,000 people on strike. We are collecting in shops for the strikers, and this brings in a handsome sum, but we cannot keep up this huge mass of strikers from such collections, only organized labor at large, coming to our assistance, will enable us to keep up our people another four or five weeks, then we are sure of victory. The magnitude of the strike far exceeded our expectations. The union prior to the strike, consisting of a few hundred people 641 --2-- never expected that something like over 30,000 would respond to the call. Many of them returned to work the first week, but there are still 12,000 out. You can understand that this mass enrolled as members of the union during the strike and our object is, to retain as many of them in our organization as possible, and this can only be done, by brining the manufacturers to accept the union conditions. You will see from this that neither our International Union nor the local was prepared to finance 12,000 strikers. But, the union, however, was compelled to call out this general strike, for this reason; As soon as a shop began to organize the employers would lock out or discharge their union hands and there was nothing left for our Organization to do either to give up local 25 entirely or to call a general strike. We did not want to go out of that field, without giving the employers a good fight. The result of this call for a general strike has far exceeded our expectations, but we cannot let the other 12,000 strikers go back to work without doing all that is possible to finance them in order to keep them up until the height of the season. I hope you will take this into consideration and all you can and see that the Executive Council shall do all in their power to provide us with assistance financially. Fraternally yours, (Signed) John A. Dyche, General Secretary-Treasurer.642 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, C/O Mr. Jos. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. My dear Mr. Gompers: You will recall that you wrote Secretary McIlvaine, of the Trades and Labor Assembly of Louisville, Kentucky, that if he would send you the draft of the circular calling the Convention of the State Federation to meet at Frankfort on January tenth, that you would give it your official endorsement. He has just sent in this draft, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. I have advised him of your absence, and that I would try to reach you, or in any event that you would take it up immediately upon your return on the fifteenth. Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard643 COPY. UNITED TRADES AND LABOR ASSEMBLY, Louisville, Ky., Dec. 5, 1909. Mr. Secretary:- Dear Sir and Bro:- The Kentucky State Federation of Labor will be reorganized in Frankfort on January 10th, 1910, under the auspices of the United Trades and Labor Assembly of this city, cooperating with the American Federation of Labor. We urgently urge that your organization send representatives on that occasion. There will be business before that body that will be of interest and value to all delegates present and with your organization's assistance we hope to elect an efficient Executive Board that will serve with credit to organized Labor throughout the State. Hoping this will meet with the approval of your Local, we beg to remain, Fraternally yours, (signed) F. W. McIlvaine, Cor. Sec. Fraternally yours, (Signed) John P. Recktenwald, President.644 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. F. W. McIlvaine, Secretary, United Trades and Labor Assembly, 204 East Main Street, Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the fifth instant, in which you enclose circular for President Gompers' approval. I am endeavoring to reach Mr. Gompers, who is now in the West, with your letter, but in the event of my inability to do so, it will be one of the first matters to be brought to his attention upon his return about the fifteenth of the month. I am unable to give you a list of the unions throughout your State, but am enclosing a list of the National and International Unions, from whom you can obtain a list of their locals. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.645 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. John A. Dyche, Secretary-Treasurer, International Ladies' Garment Workers Union, 25-27 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the sixth instant, in which you make application to the Executive Council for financial assistance in behalf of the striking Waist Makers. I am endeavoring to reach Mr. Gompers, who is now in the West, with your letter, but in the event of my inability to do so, it will be one of the first matters to be brought to his attention upon his return about the fifteenth of the month. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.643 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Jos. Valentine, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. My dear Mr. Valentine: I am sending Mr. Gompers today, in your care, some important papers. I am not sure but that he will have left Cincinnati before this letter reaches there. In that event, will you kindly forward it to him to the Colonial Hotel, Pittsburg, and oblige, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 647 LF December 9, 1909 Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. My dear Mr. Valentine: We have just received a letter from an ex-official of the Immigration Restriction League of Brooklyn, N. Y., W. H. Allen by name, in which he desires to know whether the places of the union men formerly employed by the Buck's Stove and Range Company were filled by foreign labor. He then says: "If they were, it seems to me it would make a good argument in favor of more drastic immigration laws, and it would be used as such by this League." Thus far no reply has been made to Mr. Allen's letter other than to acknowledge its receipt. If you can give any information as to the above, it will be held for Mr. Gompers' attention upon his return and he will appreciate your kindness. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.648 LF December 9, 1909 Mr. W. H. Allen, Ex-Com. Immigration Restriction League, 358 Grand Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 2nd instant, which will be held for his attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 649 LF December 9, 1909 Mr. John Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which I have just received from Mr. P. J. McHughes of Philadelphia, Pa. in regard to the organization of the dyers of that city. I have not yet made any reply to this letter and will hold it, awaiting advice from you. Hoping to receive your early reply and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:[*650*] Copy. P. J. McHughes, 2257 Hope St., Philadelphia, Pa. 12/6/09. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres. of American Federation of Labor, 423 G St. Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: Permit me to inform you that the dyers of Phila. are organized again, but are making poor progress. There is a deal of dissension amongst 4/5 of them. They do not want to join union because they don't belong directly to American Federation of Labor. They don't want to connect with U. T. W. or T. W. of Phila. & vicinity. They claim the Lace Curtain Weavers of Phila. belong and why should they not? You will confer a favor upon me by giving all particulars. Awaiting in anticipation an early reply, Yours fraternally, ( Signed ) P. J. McHughes.651 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. James Tole, President, Typographical Union #6, 616 World Building, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 7th instant and under separate cover, the papers in the case of the Typothetae against Typographical Union #6, by reason of which a jail sentence and fine were imposed upon three of the ex-officials of your union and two members. Permit me to thank you in Mr. Gompers' name for your prompt attention to this matter. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 652 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. F. H. Spears, President Springfield Federation of Labor, P. O. Box 100, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of November 26th which will be brought to his attention as soon as possible after his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.653 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. R. E. Shoonover, North Miami Rural Station, Miami, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 28th is at hand, in which you desire to know if the copper-lead-zinc miners are affiliated with the A. F. of L. In reply I beg to say that when you affect the organization of the copper-lead and zinc miners make application for charter to this office and the matter will be given prompt attention. Hoping to hear from you further at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.654 LF December 8, 1909 Miss Florence Loeber, Corresponding Secretary Era Club, 1729 Marengo St., New Orleans, La. Dear Madam: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 6th instant, in which you enclose copy of the resolution adopted by the Era Club, endorsing the action of the American Federation of Labor as regards Industrial Education. Mr. Gompers will be gratified with the action taken by your club and the matter will be brought to his personal attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.655 LF December 8, 1909 Mr. John G. Harding, Organizer, Typographical Union #16, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 7th instant and to thank you in his name for sending him the list of check book publishers which he requested through Secretary Hays. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 656 Z Dec. 9, 1909. Hon. Alton B. Parker, 3 South William St., New York City, N. Y. My dear Judge Parker: Replying to yours of the 8th Inst., I beg to say that President Gompers is in the West and is not expected to return to his office before the 15th. I am sure that the next time he goes to New York he will be glad to advise you and arrange for an hour mutually convenient to see you. He left Washington for New York on Monday, immediately after the decision of the Supreme Court, leaving New York the next day for Cincinnati Of course we were all exceedingly gratified with the action of the court. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers. 657 Z Dec. 9, 1909. Mr. D. D'Alessandro, General President, International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers' Union, 410-12 East Market St., Elmira, N. Y. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on Official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 7th Inst. In regard to the trouble your organization is having with the Building Trades Department in New York City. Your letter has been turned over to Secretary Morrison for attention, and he will take it up with the officers of the Building Trades Department. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers. 658 Z Dec/ 9, 1909. Mr. Edwin R. Wright, President, Illinois State Federation of Labor, Box 477, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 7th Inst. has been received in the absence of President Gompers on official business, as directed by the Toronto Convention. Your letter, together with a lot of other letters, is being held for Mr. Gompers' attention upon his return, when it will be taken up at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.659 Z Dec. 9, 1909. Mr. William Young, Jr., President, Typographical Union No. 2., 131 North Fifteenth St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, permit me to thank you for the information which you furnish, in compliance with his request to Mr. Lynch, as to the book publishers who caqn place the union label on their work. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.660 Z Dec. 9, 1909. Mr. Ernest Cawcroft, 48 Fenton Building, Jamestown, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 7th Inst. received. President Gompers is absent on official business and will not return for a week or ten days. Your article "Where Yanks Meet Orientals", is being held with a number or manuscripts submitted for publication in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. The matter has been prepared for the January issue of the magazine and your article will not appear in that issue. Just when Mr. Gompers will use it, I am unable to say. In any event, should it be published, copy of the magazine will be promptly mailed you. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.661 Z Dec. 9, 1909 Mr. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, permit me to thank you for calling his attention to the extract taken from Colliers' Weekly of November 27th. I will obtain a copy of that issue and hold it until Mr. Gompers returns. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.662 Z Dec. 9, 1909. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, 10096 Metropolitan Building, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Just before leaving the city on Monday, the 6th Inst., President Gompers spoke to you in regard to arranging for the conference on the subject of industrial education with Secretary Nagel of the Department of Commerce and Labor, and Dr. Neill of the Bureau of Labor, on Monday, December 20th. I beg to advise you that letter is received this morning from Secretary Nagel, stating that he will be glad to meet the Federation Committee on Monday morning, December 20th, in his office. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.663 Z Dec. 9, 1909. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary, 801-809 G St., N. W., City. Dear Sir: Just before leaving the city on Monday, the 6th Inst, President Gompers spoke to you in regard to arranging for the conference on the subject of industrial education with Secretary Nagel of the Department of Commerce and Labor, and Dr. Neill of the Bureau of Labor, on Monday, December 20th. I beg to advise you that letter is received this morning from Secretary Negel, stating that he will be glad to meet the Federation Committee on Monday morning, December 20th, in his office. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers. 664 Z Dec. 9. 1909 Mr. James O'Connell, Vice-President, 407 McGill Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and in continuation of his letter to you of the 6th Inst. in regard to the conference with Secretary Nagel and Dr. Neill on the subject of industrial education, I beg to advise you that a letter is received from Secretary Nagel this morning in which he states that he will be glad to meet the Federation Committee on Monday morning, Dec. 20th, in his office. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.665 M December 9, 1909. Mr. M. M. Dawson, Councellor at Law, 141 Broadway, New York City, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 7th instant is at hand and contents noted. As stated to you by President Gompers during your interview with him a few days ago in his office, at which I was present, he will send a circular letter to all of the affiliated organizations requesting full data as to their payment of benefits to their members, both by the national unions themselves and the local unions or lodges. Just as soon as this accurate data is obtained Mr. Gompers will be glad to give it to you. In the meantime, I am sure you will be interested in the enclosed report made by the Cigarmakers International Union, of which Mr. Gompers has been a member and officer for a long period of years. In fact, his membership dates from his early boyhood. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers. 666 M December 9, 1909. Mr. Lawrence A. Grace, Secretary, Central Federated Union, Room 1, Labor Temple, Providence, R. I. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of recent date, I beg to say that President Kinsella, of the International Association of Steam and Hot Water Fitters and Helpers, advises me that he expects to have a representative of his Association visit Providence next week and co-operate with Organizer Frayne in making the investigation. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenver convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.667 M December 9, 1909. Mr. L. A. Cevasco, Norwich, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 6th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that when you go to New York, I would suggest that you call upon the official representative of the Federation, Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave., who will be glad to give you any assistance in his power. I am advising him by this mail of your communication to me. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.668 M December 9, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which I have just received from L. A. Cevasco, Norwich, N. Y., which is self- explanatory. I have advised him that when he goes to New York, it would be well for him to confer with you as to the matter he has in mind. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.669 COPY. L. A. Cevasco WHOLESALE TOBACCONNIST NORWICH, N. Y. Dec. 6, 1909. Samuel Gompers, New York City. Dear Sir: I am writing you in regard to some trouble I have had with the local union as I expect to be in New York Sometime between the 5th and 10th of Jan. I would like to know if I could make an appointment to see you or somebody who does business in your place when you are away to place the matter before you in person. Thanking you for an early and favorable reply in advance, I beg to remain, Very truly yours, L. A. Cevasco.670 M December 9, 1909. Mr. E. H. Chapman, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 201 Mill St., Port Chester, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to acknowledge receipt of the amended by-laws of the Trades and Labor Assembly, and to say that same is hereby approved. The constitution is returned to you herein. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.671 M December 9, 1909. Mr. L. T. Chapell, Secretary pro tem, Central Labor Council, Hornell, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 8th is at hand, enclosing amended By-laws of the Central Labor Council, and beg to say that the by-laws as amended are approved. I enclose same to your herein. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from your whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.672 M December 9, 1909. Mr. James P. Boyle, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 345 Cornelia St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir: Replying to your letter of the 5th instant in which you request President Gompers to address a mass meeting under the auspices of the Brooklyn Central Labor Union in behalf of the recently organized Lasters in the Hannan Factory, I beg to advise you that he is in Cincinnati attending the Convention of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, as directed by the Toronto Convention. From there he will go to Pittsburg and preside over the conference of the officers of national and international unions, as also directed by the Toronto Convention. As to whether he can accept your invitation I can not now say. In any event we will endeavor to bring the matter to his attention as early as possible after his return and then advise you definitely. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.673 M December 9, 1909. Mr. George H. Shibley, Bliss Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 2nd instant enclosing suggestions "Labor Troubles and The Way Out," and to say that same will be brought to his attention at the earliest opportunity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.674 M December 9, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers and replying to your favor of December 6, I beg to say that just before leaving the city for New York, Cincinnati, and Pittsburg, last Monday, he wrote to Mr. Frey that his expenses while acting in behalf of the Electrical Workers would be borne by the Federation. Asking to be remember to Mrs. Lennon and Miss Barbara, and with sincere good wishes, I am, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.675 M December 9, 1909. Mr. E. Clarence Jones, President, American Embassy Association, 505 Fifth Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Acknowledging receipt of your favor of the 5th instant I beg to advise you that President Gompers is absent on official business and is not expected to return before the 15th of the month. I will endeavor to bring your letter to his attention at the earliest possible moment upon his return, when he will write you direct as to the suggestion you make relative to the Federation endorsing and co-operating with your Association. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.676 M December 9, 1909. Mr. Frank Fitzpatrick, Secretary Woolen Weavers Union No. 800, W[?], R. I. Dear SIr: In the absence of President Gompers, and replying to your favor of the 3rd instant, I beg to suggest that you write to the President of you International Union, Mr. John Golden, who I think will be able to give you full information as to Mr. H. S. Mills, about whom you inquire. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.677 X. Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Clarence Elwyn Pitts, No. 8 Grant Block, Oswego, New York. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and replying to your favor of December sixth, I beg to advise you that the name and address of the Secretary of the Workingmen's Federation of the State of New York is Mr. Daniel Harris, 190 Bowery, New York City. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.678 X. Dec. 5, 1909. Mr. L. A. Gardner, Editor, "Kicks and Komments," Warren, Pa. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the sixth instant, and will bring it to his attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.679 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Sir: In connection with the work of the Nation Rivers and Harbors Congress now in session in this city, and over which you are presiding, your attention is called to a resolution adopted by the last annual Convention of the Federation held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20. The resolution to which I refer, No. 69, reads as follows: "BE IT RESOLVED, By the American Federation of Labor in Convention assembled; That we as a body indorse the deep waterway projects throughout the country, and we heartily recommend to Congress that money be appropriated for the purpose of carrying on construction of waterways in different parts of the United States, and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the President of the United States, President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Chairman of the Rivers and Harbors Committee, Washington, D. C." This matter has already been brought to the attention of the President, the Presiding Officer of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, and the Chairman of the Rivers and Harbors Committee, as directed by the Toronto Convention, and in view of the great interest which Labor has in the deep waterway projects as indicated by the resolution above quoted, it seemed to me that your Congress should be advised of the action by our last annual Convention. I have the honor to remain,680 --2-- Very respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Hon. Joseph R. Randell President, National Rivers and Harbors Congress, New Willard Hotel, Washington, D. C.681 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Sir: The Joint Commission on Immigration having an investigation of that subject under consideration, it seemed to me that the attitude of the American Federation of Labor upon that subject should be made known to the Commission, and I therefore submit to you the following. The New Orleans Convention, 1902, adopted an educational test,-excepting wives, children under eighteen, and parents over fifty -- all adult immigrants to be able at landing to read in some language the Constitution of the United States. This was reaffirmed by the Boston Convention, 1903. This Convention also adopted a resolution (No. 65) protesting against the wholesale immigration of foreign labor. The Pittsburg Convention, 1905, adopted a resolution declaring against assisted immigration, also to have immigration laws so amended as to provide that ports of entry shall be confined to those on the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and the Gulf of Mexico. This Convention also declared for an educational test. The Minneapolis Convention, 1906, reaffirmed the actions of the previous Conventions upon the subject of immigration. The Norfolk Convention, 1907, reaffirmed the action of previous Conventions upon this subject, expressed disappointment that the educational test had not been incorporated in the new 682 -- 2-- Immigration Law and making it clearly understood that agitation in behalf of the educational test was not merely for the purpose of securing a better class of immigrants but to reduce the volume of immigration. The Denver Convention, 1908, again declared for the educational test. The Toronto Convention, 1909, reaffirmed the action of previous Conventions. In addition to the above, I should like to inquire whether it would suit the convenience of the Commission to hear a few members of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in an oral statement upon this subject of Immigration? I am dictating this just before leaving the city on business engagements which will take me away from Washington until December 18th. Any time after that mutually convenient will afford me an opportunity to make arrangements to have a few members of the Executive Council meet with your Commission. Trusting that the above may commend itself to the favorable consideration of yourself and the Commission, I have the honor to remain. Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. William P. Dillingham, Chairman, Joint Commission on Immigration, U. S. Senate, Washington, D. C.683 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. E. A. Moffett, Special Agent, The Immigration Commission, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the second instant was received by Mr. Gompers just as he was leaving the city for a ten day's absence on official business. In it you make reference to the action of the American Federation of Labor upon the subject of Immigration at the annual Conventions held in New Orleans, 1902; Boston, 1903; Pittsburg, 1905; Minneapolis, 1906; Norfolk, 1907; Denver, 1908. You then request that Mr. Gompers should make any corrections or additions thereto as he may find necessary, and also request advice as the the action of the last Convention held in Toronto, Canada, November, 1909. Mr. Gompers left the city on Monday, immediately after the decision of the Supreme Court, and therefore as he was unable personally to give your letter his attention, he directed me to verify from the official proceedings of these several Conventions, the references you had made to the action of the Conventions upon the subject of Immigration. I beg to say that I have carefully gone over the official proceedings of these Conventions, and find that there is no correction684 Mr. E. A. Moffett --2-- or addition to be made to the extracts you have taken. I note in your letter that you refer to the Pittsburg Convention as 1904. This should be 1905. The Toronto Convention reaffirmed the section of previous Conventions upon this subject. In the postscript to your letter, you suggest that if Mr. Gompers has any impressions as to immigration [and] that he would care to have embodied in your report, that you would be most thankful to receive them. Apart from what he has repeatedly stated in his annual reports to the Conventions, and the declarations of the Conventions in regard thereto as to the educational test and assisted immigration, with which you are thoroughly familiar, your attention is called to letter No. 14 of the series of News Letters which he wrote during his trip abroad last summer. This letter is dated September 26th and was written from Naples. As it contains some very valuable information upon the subject of Immigration, I enclose a copy herein. It may be of assistance to you. As it is the only copy which I have for our records, may I request that you kindly return it after it has served its purposes. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*685*] X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. Victor Kleiber, Secretary, International Molders' Union, 530 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the seventh instant in which you request that the confidential blank calling for statement of unemployed, which was last filled in by the late Secretary, Mr. Denney, should be sent to you as a guide for filling out blanks in future. I beg to say in reply, that the last one filled in by Mr. Denney has been destroyed after being used, but enclosed you will please find the blank form. These are sent out regularly the latter part of each month and should be filled in and returned to this office by the first of the next succeeding month, so that it, together with the information thus furnished by other International Unions, may be used in the preparation of the chart for the unemployed as published each month in the American Federationist. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.686 X. Dec. 9, 1909. Miss Kate Barnard, Commissioner, Department of Charities and Corrections, Guthrie, Oklahoma. My dear Miss Barnard: Your favor of the second instant was received here December sixth, just as President Gompers was leaving the city, immediately after the decision of the Supreme Court of the United States, to fulfill a number of engagements in the West as directed by the last annual Convention of the Federation. I am therefore making this acknowledgement of the receipt of your letter until such time as he can give the matters about which you write his personal attention, which will probably not be for at least ten days or two weeks. In reply to your postscript, I beg to say that Arizona and New Mexico have not State Federation [*affiliated*]. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.687 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. Theo. E. Strauss, Secretary, 526 W. 9th Street, La Crosse, Wis. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, as directed by the Toronto Convention, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the eighth instant, which will be brought to his attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.688 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. J. J. Reid Box 42 Springfield, Illinois. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, as directed by the Toronto Convention, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the eighth instant, which will be brought to his attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.689 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. George Stein, Organizer, New York Typographical UNION No. 6, 616-18 World Building, New York City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, by direction of the Toronto Convention, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the ninth instant, and thank you for sending list in compliance with Mr. Gompers' request to Mr. Hays. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. [*690*] X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. J. C. Williams, Henderson, North Carolina. Dear Sir: Your favor of the eighth instant received and contents noted. I am referring your request to Mr. John Golden, President of the Textile Workers Union, Box 742, Fall River, Massachusetts, asking him to write you direct and give the information desired. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.691 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. John Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: You will please find enclosed copy of letter from J. C. Williams, of Henderson, North Carolina, in which he asks for some information relative to organizing Cotton Mill Employees. I am writing him today stating that his letter has been referred to you, and that you will answer him direct. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.692 COPY. Henderson, N. C., Dec. 8, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, _____ Dear Sir: Will you kindly place me in communication with the Sec'y. of some active local Cotton Mills employe's Association, or labor union. I wish to get some information relative to organizing Cotton Mill employes. The workers of this Town wish to get lined up and have requested me to help them out. Any information or assistance will be greatly appreciated, by, Most truly yours, (Signed) J. C. Williams.[*693*] M December 9, 1909. Mr. J. N. Gorton, 427 Spruce St., Scranton, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 29th is at hand, in which you enclose copy of Constitution and By-laws of Amusement Park Employees' Union No. 12720, which you submit for approval. I note in your by-laws you have no stated time for adjournment, and would suggest that a clause be inserted that the meetings shall adjourn at 10:30 P. M. unless otherwise ordered by a two-thirds vote of the delegates present. Oftentimes business is transacted at a late hour, many of the delegates having been compelled to leave the meeting hall, that is not for the best interests of the organization and causes much dissatisfaction. By having a stated time for adjournment of the meeting, this will be obviated. With this amendment the by-laws are approved. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.694 X. Dec. 10, 1909. M. G. M. Henderson, Secretary, Baltimore Federation of Labor, 500 East Fayette Street, Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the ninth instant, I will advise him, after his return next week, as to the meeting in Baltimore, on Sunday, December Nineteenth. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*695*] X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Chairman, National Civic Federation, Executive Committee, Metropolitan Building, New York City. My dear Mr. Easley: You recall the Gregory pamphlet on injunctions, copy of which you sent Mr. Gompers. He loaned it to a friend who has not yet returned it, and as he directed me to use some matter from this pamphlet during his absence, I am writing to inquire if you could kindly let me have another copy or direct me where I could get one? Thanking you in advance for your reply, I am, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.695 M December 10, 1909. Mr. A. A. Williams, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 12809, Portales, N. M. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date is at hand, enclosing copy of By-laws of Federal Labor Union No. 12809, which I submit for your approval. I note in your by-laws that you have no stated time for adjournment, and would suggest that a clause be inserted that the meetings shall adjourn at 10:30 P. M. unless otherwise ordered by a two-thirds vote of the delegates present. Oftentimes business is transacted at a late hour, many of the delegates having been compelled to leave the meeting hall, that is not for the best interests of the organization and causes much dissatisfaction. By having a stated time for adjournment of the meeting this will be obviated. With this amendment the by-laws are approved. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.697 M December 10, 1909. Mr. H. A. Smith, Box 754, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you enclose your commission as volunteer organizer for Tulsa and vicinity, and stating that you have gone into business. 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 from time to time, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.698 M December 10, 1909. Mr. C. J. Holland, Brooklyn Evening High School, Commercial High School Bldg., Albany & Dean Sts., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir: I am in receipt of a letter from Mr. W. A. Ross, requesting me to furnish you with literature and information on "The Closed Shop" as you are to uphold that side in a 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 San Francisco, and Norfolk conventions: also Pittsburg, 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 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.699 C. J. 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 kindly see that copy is sent to me. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.700 M December 10, 1909. Mr. John Wesley Evans, Lonaconing, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th instant is at hand, and in compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover sample copy of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. In response to your inquiry relative to Mr. Chris Evans, I beg to say that he is one of our organizers, and his address in Nelsonville, Ohio. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.701 M December 10, 1909 Mr. F. R. Fravel, 1016 15th St., N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22nd instant addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been brought to my attention, in which you request some data for discussing the proposition that the Labor Unions have or have not been a detriment to the country for the las decade, more particularly, and also since their formation in the worlds history. Enclosed you will 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 nine 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 17th 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.702 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 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. 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 legislative 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 of company stores; anti-coercion[*703*] 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 satisfactory 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 upon 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 discussion.704 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 assistance to you, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel 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. 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 the 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.705 M December 10, 1909. Mr. Peter Ferguson, President, Trades and Labor Assembly, Salem, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 3rd is at hand, in which you state the Trades and Labor Assembly recommends the appointment of Monroe H. Younger, as volunteer organizer for Salem and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Younger 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.706 M December 10, 1909. Mr. Lew Swanson, Secretary, Box Makers and Sawyers Local Union No. 267, 67 South 17th St., Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 7, in which you refer to previous letter, which you say was handed to Mr. Gompers at the Toronto Convention by John T. Smith. If you have a copy of this letter, I would appreciate it if you would kindly send it to us, as I have gone carefully through all of the papers and correspondence brought back from the Toronto Convention, and am unable to locate the letter to which you refer. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy, I am, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.707 Z Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. J. Stadler, Organizer, 827 Eleanora St., New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of Dec. 7th has been duly received and contents noted. I am pleased to note your determination to lend your every effort in advancing the interests of the labor movement and I trust you may meet with the greatest possible success. In compliance with your request, I am enclosing herein a list of the organizations affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.708 Z Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. S. C. Cross, C/O Strayer's College, Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 3rd Inst, which will be given his attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.709 Z Dec. 9, 1909. Mr. H. H. Biggar, Mt. Allison University, Sackville, N. B., Canada. Dear Sir: Your favor of Dec. 3rd has been duly received and contents noted. In reply I beg to enclose to you herein copy of a pamphlet by the undersigned entitled "No Compulsory Arbitration", in which I discuss fully the subject of compulsory arbitration. If you could refer to a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor, of which I am editor, and consult the issues of March and April, 1901, you would find several editorials which I wrote upon that subject. Also if you could refer to the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you would secure some very valuable matter as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon this subject. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.710 Z Dec. 9, 1909. Dr. C. L. Wilbur, Census Bureau, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In conformity with President Gompers' promise to you during your recent interview with him in his office, I enclose to you herein list of national and international unions affiliated to the American Federation of Labor, and there will be mailed to you in a few days circular letter that President Gompers has addressed to these organizations on the subject of the co-operation of the labor movement with the Census Bureau in the matter of ascertaining mortality data. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.711 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. Warren S. Stone, Grand Chief, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Enginemen, Society of Savings Bldg., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: For some time Federal Labor Union #12362, at Galeton, Pa., has been engaged in a trade dispute with the company by which its members are employed. The matter was investigated by this office, the action of Local #12362 approved by the Executive Council, and the members allowed benefits from the Defense fund of the American Federation of Labor under the provisions of Article 13 of the Constitution. They are now being paid benefits, which will be continued, if necessary, for the full period of time allowed by the Federation Constitution. Under date of the fourth, I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of Local #12362, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will note the statement made as regards the united action of the several local lodges, your included, whose interests are more or less involved in the controversy in which the members of Local #12362 are engaged. I am submitting this to you at the request of the Secretary of Local #12362, and would be pleased to have whatever cooperation you can give through your local lodge in bringing about an honorable adjustment of the controversy.712 Mr. Warren S. Stone --2-- Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.713 COPY. Galeton, Pa., Dec. 4, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Dear Sir and Bro: I have been instructed to write you, that at a joint meeting of the four Brotherhoods organizations, namely B. of L. E., B. of L. F., B. of R. T., and O. R. C. of the B. and S. R-way, held Sunday, Nov. 21, 1909, they voted to help us in every way possible to obtain settlement, and wrote their respective Grand Lodges to that effect, and received the reply that their Grand Lodge officers would gladly take the matter up providing the different organizations involved in this strike notify their Grand Lodge officers and have them communicate with them in regard to this. We have been asked to do this by representatives of the four orders, claiming that their Grand Lodge officers requested them to have the Executive Board of this strike notify their respective G. L. officers as to the stand [of] the Brotherhood has taken as they are as much interested in the outcome of this struggle as we are, as they are about to present a new schedule for a standard rate of wages and if our strike is won inside of thirty days would be a benefit to them. We would sincerely beg you to take this matter up with the Brotherhood Grand Officers and advise as soon as you get an answer. Find enclosed receipt for full amount of strike benefits for week ending Nov. 26th, and thank you for the same. Will send report blank and individual receipts under separate cover. We have four mounted State officers here but there has been no trouble of any kind but the men are getting uneasy. I saw a car man from the shop last night and he told me they were putting up a big bluff but were getting no work done and the trainmen are bound to make them come to time. Please advise me as soon as possible the outcome of your communication with the Brotherhood officials. Thanking you in advance for your kindness, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) R. E. Eldridge, Sec. Local #12362.714 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. W. G. Lee, Grand Master, Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: For some time Federal Labor Union #12362, at Galeton, Pa., has been engaged in a trade dispute with the Company by which its members are employed. The matter was investigated by this office, the action of Local #12362 approved by the Executive Council, and the members allowed benefits from the Defense Fund of the American Federation of Labor under the provisions of Article 13 of the Constitution. They are now being paid benefits, which will be continued, if necessary, for the full period of time allowed by the Federation Constitution. Under date of the fourth, I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of Local #12362, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will note the statement made as regards the united action of the several local lodges, yours included, whose interests are more or less involved in the controversy in which the members of Local #12362 are engaged. I am submitting this to you at the request of the Secretary of Local #12362, and would be pleased to have whatever cooperation you can give through your local lodge in bringing about an honorable adjustment of the controversy.715 Mr. W. G. Lee --2-- Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*716*] X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. W. S. Carter, President, Brotherhood Locomotive Firemen, Peoria, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: For some time Federal Labor Union #12362, at Galeton, Pa., has been engaged in a trade dispute with the Company by which its members are employed. The matter was investigated by this office, the action of Local #12362 approved by the Executive Council, and the members allowed benefits from the Defense Fund of the American Federation of Labor under the provisions of Article 13 of the Constitution. They are now being paid benefits, which will be continued. if necessary, for the full period of time allowed by the Federation Constitution. Under date of the fourth, I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of Local #12362, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will note the statement made as regards the united action of the several local lodges, yours included, whose interests are more or less involved in the controversy in which the members of Local #12362 are engaged. I am submitting this to you at the request of the Secretary of Local #12362, and would be pleased to have whatever cooperation you can give through your local lodge in bringing about an honorable adjustment of the controversy.[*717*] Mr. W. S. Carter --2-- Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.718 X. Dec. 10, 1910. Mr. A. B. Garretson, Grand Chief Conductor, Order of Railway Conductors, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: For some time Federal Labor Union #12362, at Galeton, Pa., has been engaged in a trade dispute with the Company by which its members are employed. The matter was investigated by this office, the action of Local #12362 approved by the Executive Council, and the members allowed benefits from the Defense Fund of the American Federation of Labor under the provisions of Article 13 of the Constitution. They are now being paid benefits, which will be continued, if necessary, for the full period of time allowed by the Federation Constitution. Under date of the fourth, I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of Local #12362, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will note the statement made as regards the united action of the several local lodges, yours included, whose interests are more or less involved in the controversy in which the members of Local #12362, are engaged. I am submitting this to you at the request of the Secretary of Local #12362, and would be pleased to have whatever cooperation you can give through your local lodge in bringing about an honorable adjustment of the controversy.719 Mr. A. B. Garretson --2-- Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.720 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. F. T. Hawley, President, Switchmens Union of North America, 326 Brisbane Bldg., Buffalo, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: For some time Federal Labor Union #12362, at Galeton, Pa., has been engaged in a trade dispute with the company by which its members are employed. The matter was investigated by this office, the action of Local #12362 approved by the Executive Council, and the members allowed benefits from the Defense fund of the American Federation of Labor under the provisions of Article 13 of the Constitution. They are now being paid benefits, which will be continued, if necessary, for the full period of time allowed by the Federation Constitution. Under date of the fourth, I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of Local #12362, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will note the statement made as regards the united action of the several local lodges, yours included, whose interests are more or less involved in the controversy in which the members of Local#12362 are engaged. I am submitting this to you at the request of the Secretary of Local #12362, and would be pleased to have whatever cooperation you can give through your local lodge in bringing about an honorable adjustment of the controversy.721 Mr. F. T. Hawley -2- Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.722 X. Dec. 10, 1909. Mr. A. E. Eldridge, Secretary, Federal Labor Union #12362, Galeton, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the fourth instant received and contents noted. In compliance with your request, and in line with the action taken by the several local unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods as indicated in your letter to me, I am now in correspondence with the Executive Officers of the Brotherhoods and trust that through the cooperation of these several local lodges an honorable adjustment of all matters in controversy between your organization and the Company may be secured. Hoping to hear from you further at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*723*] X. Dec. 11, 1909 Mr. W. A. Appleton, Secretary, General Federation of Trade Unions, 8, Adelphi Terrace, Adam Street, Strand, London. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of November 29th, in which you enclose letter from Professor Geo. Shvittan, of the Imperial University at St. Petersburg, I beg to advise you that I have placed him upon our mailing list, sending him some of our printed matter. With kind regards to you and all of our friends, and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*724*] X. Dec. 11, 1909. Prof. Geo. Shvittan, The Imperial University, St. Petersburg, Russia. Dear Sir: Through the courtesy of Mr. W. A. Appleton, of the General Federation of Trade Unions of London, England, I have your letter to him of November 17th, in which you request him to have the American Federationist sent to you. I have directed that your name be placed upon our mailing list to receive the magazine regularly. I am also sending you under separate cover some of our printed matter, which I think you will find of interest. I now am considering the matter of publishing in book form a series of the News Letters I wrote during my four months trip through Europe last summer. If this should be done, and you would feel any interest in the report I make of my investigation and study of labor conditions abroad, I should be glad to have copy sent to you. In any event, hoping that I may hear from you at your convenience, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*725*] X. Dec. 11, 1909. Mr. W. A. Ross, Commercial High School, Brooklyn, New York. Dear Sir: Your favor of the seventh instant is at hand, and in accordance with the information contained therein I am sending to C. J. Holland, of the Brooklyn Evening High School, Commercial High School Building, Albany and Dean Streets, Brooklyn, literature and information on the union shop, or as it is called, the "Closed Shop," inasmuch as you state he is to uphold that side of the debate. Inasmuch as Mr. McNally will debate on the side of the non-union, or as it commonly called, "Open Shop", of course, I could not undertake, and would not be able to furnish him with any printed matter in support of that side of the question. I thank you for your good wishes as to the final outcome of the review of our case by the Supreme Court of the United States. We are in hopes that the case can be advanced to a hearing at an early date. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*726*] X. Dec. 11, 1909. Mr. W. L. Carter, President, Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, Peoria, Illinois. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business by direction of the Toronto Convention, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the ninth instant, which will be brought to his attention immediately upon his return on the fifteenth. In the meantime, if possible, I shall endeavor to reach him on the road so that he can give you the information you desire at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. [*727*] Form 1545. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Washington, D. C., Dec. 11, 1909 TO Samuel Gompers, C/o Jos. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, O. President Lee's chief clerk wires as follows: Telegram received. President Lee will arrive at office this afternoon and can be personally seen at Cleveland next few days." R. EEE GUARD CHARGE A. F. of L. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ________Dr. to The Western Union Telegraph Co. For Message to________ by________ dated________ 190 . No. of Words________ Rate________ Amount $________ (Sgd.)________ Sender.[*728*] Form 1545. THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Washington, D. C., Dec. 11, 1909 TO Samuel Gompers, Colonial Hotel, Pittsburg, Pa. (Hold until arrival) President Lee's chief clerk wires: ""Telegram received. Pres- ident Lee will arrive at office this afternoon and can be seen personally at Cleveland next few days." R. LEE GUARD CHARGE A. F. of L. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ________Dr. to The Western Union Telegraph Co. For Message to________ by________ dated________ 190 No. of Words________ Rate________ Amount $________ (Sgd.)________ Sender.[*729*] Z Dec. 11, 1909. Mr. William Dundas, Secretary, Newspaper Carriers' Protective Union #12831, 3942 Seventeenth St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Relative to the dispute between your union and the Newspaper Solicitors and the San Francisco Call, the Executive Council, at its last meeting, having this matter under consideration, decided that declaring a firm unfair in effect is similar to the declaration of a strike; therefore, no firm or its product should be declared unfair by a local trade union directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor until application has been made to, and approved by, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor. This decision is in compliance with the rules and laws of the American Federation of Labor and applies to the case in question. You will please adopt this letter as official notification of the action of the Executive Council in this matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.730 Z Dec. 11, 1909. Mr. W. D. Asseltine, Secretary, Newspaper Solicitors' Union #12766, 114 Kempton Ave., Oakland, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Confirming my telegram to you from Toronto under date of November 21st. I beg to say that relative to the dispute between your union, the Newspaper Carriers, and the San Francisco Call, the Executive Council, at its last meeting, having this matter under consideration, decided that declaring a firm unfair in effect is similar to the declaration of a strike; therefore, no firm or its product should be declared unfair by a local trade union directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor until application has been made to and approved by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor. This decision is in compliance with the rules and laws of the American Federation of Labor and applies to the case in question. You will please accept this letter as official notification of the action of the Executive Council in this matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 731 (copy) Form 2 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to.________19 To Henry B. Perham President Railroad Employes Department. American Federation of Labor. St. Louis, Mo. Can't you call special meeting Department or of Executive Board at St. Paul [Annapolis] in few days to cooperate and advise with officers of Switchmens Union to READ THE NOTICE AND AGREEMENT ON BACK. Form 2 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to.________19 help bring about honorable adjustment switchmens strike: Such action it seems would materially aid in more harmonious action among all railroad employes for the future. An announcement that you READ THE NOTICE AND AGREEMENT ON BACK.THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT C. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. would act as suggested would have its beneficial result in as present contest Samuel Gompers.733 [*pasted in book*] Form 2 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPGH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT G. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to.________1909 copy Cincinnati Dec. 11. To Wm J Gilthorpe. Kansas City Kan. yours and several other telegrams received inviting me to address mass meeting December fourteenth Protest granting franchise Regret impossibility my being in attendance Toronto Convention READ THE NOTICE AND AGREEMENT ON BACK. Form 2 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPGH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24, 000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT G. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to.________19 TO Federation directed me to be here at important conference thirteenth and fourteenth S. G. READ THE NOTICE AND AGREEMENT ON BACK.734 Form 2 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT G. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check copy SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Dec 10th (Cinn. O.) 1909 To Frank Morrison 801 G. St N.W. Washington D. C. Try and place a couple of our special organizers at President Hawley's disposal to aid in adjustment switchmens strike. (Signed) Samuel Gompers Collect READ THE NOTICE AND AGREEMENT ON BACK. Form 2 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24,000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT G. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check copy SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Cinn. O. Dec 10th 1909 TO W. G. Lee Prest. Brotherhood Railway Trainmen Cleveland Ohio Can't you co-operate with President Hawley to bring about honorable adjustment in Switch- mens Strike? Harmonious action now, it [would] seems to me would solve present misunderstandings and future obstacles. signed Samuel Gompers READ THE NOTICE AND AGREEMENT ON BACK.735 Form 2 THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY. INCORPORATED 24, 000 OFFICES IN AMERICA. CABLE SERVICE TO ALL THE WORLD. ROBERT G. CLOWRY, President and General Manager. Receiver's No. Time Filed Check SEND the following message subject to the terms on back hereof, which are hereby agreed to. Cin. O. Dec. 10. 1909. To R. Lee Guard. 801 G Street. Washington, D. C. Telegram matter received Send additional matter to [Pittsburg] Colonial Hotel Pittsburg [until] until Sunday. Samuel Gompers [*Collect*] READ THE NOTICE AND AGREEMENT ON BACK.[*736*] X. PITTSBURG, PA., Dec. 12, 1909. Mr. W. L. Carter, President, Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, Peoria, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from my secretary, in which is enclosed your letter of December the ninth, addressed to me at my Washington office. In it you request information as to the record of Judge Horace H. Lurton, who is now being considered by President Taft for appointment upon the Supreme Bench of the United States to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Justice Peckham. The best reply that I can make to you is to give you copy of the letter which I wrote President Taft in regard to Judge Lurton on December sixth. You will find copy enclosed herein. As you will understand from the tenor of my letter to the President, I had in an interview with him, together with several members of the Executive Council, verbally protested against the appointment of Judge Lurton. The latest information from Washington is that the vacancy on the Supreme Court Bench has not yet been filled. I trust that you will let me hear from you as to what steps you take in this matter. With best wishes, believe me [to be,] Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.737 X. Dec. 13, 1909. Mr. H. Patterson, Secretary, Sioux Falls Aerie No. 318, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 8th instant, which will be brought to his attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.738 X. Dec. 11, 1909. Mr. George Muller, Manager, Educational Bureau, Pennsylvania State Brewers Ass'n. 416-20 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business by direction of the Toronto Convention, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the tenth instant. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.739 M December 13, 1909. Mr. S. S. Gregory, Attorney-at-Law, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: A friend has just called to my attention the pamphlet entitled "Address to the Graduating Class of the John Marshall Law School of Chicago," and I would like very much to secure several copies if you would kindly advise me where I can get them. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.740 M December 13, 1909 Mr. Paul Moore Strayer, Pastor, The Third Presbyterian Church, Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 10, and to say that same will be brought to Mr. Gompers attention at the earliest opportunity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.741 M December 13, 1909. Mr. H. L. Howell, Secretary, The Central Trades and Labor Assembly, P. O. Box 517, Tampa, Fla. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 10, and to say that your letter will be brought to his attention at the earliest opportunity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.742 M December 13, 1909. Mr. Thomas Rumsey, Clark's Hall, 314 Cherry St., Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 10th has been received in the absence of President Gompers. Same will be brought to his attention as early as possible after his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.743 M December 13, 1909. Mr. John B. Connolly, Secretary, Ohio Federation of Labor, Room 11, Temple Bar Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 7th instant, and to say that same will be brought to his attention at the earliest possible moment. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.744 M December 13, 1909. Mr. Thomas Joyce, Secretary, Local No. 120, United Association of Plumbers, Gas Pitters, etc., 717 Superior Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 10, and to say that same will be brought to his attention at the earliest opportunity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.745 M December 13, 1909. Mr. E. J. Brais, Secretary, Local No. 162, Journeyman Tailors Union, 717 Superior Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 10th has been received in the absence of President Gompers, and beg to say that same will be brought to his attention at the earliest opportunity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.746 M December 13, 1909. Mr. Ernest Villard, Secretary, International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers Union, 410-12 East Market St., Albany, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 11th has been received in the absence of President Gompers, and beg to say that same will be brought to his attention at the earliest opportunity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.747 M December 13, 1909. Mr. Charles Weisel, Secretary, Carpenters' Local Union No. 1108, 3553 West 32nd St., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 9, and to say that same will be brought to his attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.748 M December 13, 1909. Dr. William H. Tolman, Director, Museum of Safety and Sanitation, 29 West 39th St., New York City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 11th, and to say that same will be brought to his attention upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.749 M December 13, 1909. Prof. John N. Commons, Department of Political Economy. University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wis. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 10th instant, and in compliance with your request there is returned to you under separate cover the copy of the History of the American Federation of Labor, by Morton A. Aldrich, which you loaned Mr. Gompers sometime ago, and for which you will please accept his thanks. We have not gotten another copy of this for the records of our office. You ask for briefs and testimony in the Buck's Stove and Range Company to be used in your preparation for a course of lectures. We will be glad to send you copies of those we have printed, but will not be able to furnish you the entire history of the case. You will probably find these of assistance in the preparation of your lectures. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*750*] December 13, 1909. Samuel Gompers, Colonial Hotel, Pittsburg, Pa. The name of the party about whom Mr. Carter of the firemen wrote you has been sent in to-day for confirmation. R. LEE GUARD CHARGE A. F. OF L.Berlin, July 28th, Mr. R. M. Easley, Metropolitan Life Building, New York City, Dear Mr. Easley: It has been my intention for some time to write you, but it has simply been impossible. I have travelled so much and my time has been fully occupied. There are many things which I have seen of great interest of an industrial commercial and social character. Apart from the letters which I have sent to the United States for publication, there is an abundant lot of material for important contributions to the understanding of our people of European conditions. I am so thoroughly engrossed with meeting labor men in all the cities where I go, that I really have not had the opportunity of availing myself of the courtesies which others not directly in the ranks of labor have offered me and my party. I missed Miss Marbury and Miss Morgan in Paris by hair's breath in spite of the fact that they both wrote me, I wrote them once and they called at my hotel once. If they do not return to "God's Country" before the end of August I hope to see them in Paris. The latter part of the week I leave here for Vienna and the other place on my itinery. I was rather disappointed at752 2, not receiving a word from you during the trip. Hope nothing is amiss. The folks are standing the trip very well and having a good time, so am I, but it consists mostly of conferences, meetings and investigations. With kindest regards and best wishes in which the folks and Mr. Sullivan join me, I am Sincerely yours,753 Berlin, July 28th Dear Mr. White: Your favor of the 21st and copy of the letter, the original of which you sent to the United States, indeed, all your letters came duly to hand, and I beg to assure you it caused me genuine regret that I was unable to have the pleasure of meeting you during my stay in Paris. I found, however, that every moment was bespoken on matters which admitted of no postponement if I hoped to be of any service to the Work people in France, and that I believe you will agree with me was of first importance. Nothing unforeseen occurring, I expect to be in Paris the last few days of August and the first of September, and if you are in Paris at that time I shall deem it a duty as well as it will be a pleasure to call upon you at the Embassy and to have the opportunity to talk over a few matters of interest. Though belated, permit me to thank you for your consideration in regard to the review of July 14th, which by the way, I saw to advantage. On behalf of Mrs. Gompers and Miss Gompers, as well as myself the good wishes you express are earnestly reciprocated. Very truly yours, Hon. Henry White, American Embassador Paris, France.754 Berlin, July 28th, Mr. Frank Morrison, Sec. American Federation of Labor, 801-9 G Street, Washington, D. C. U. S. A. Dear Friend Frank: Your favor of the 9th inst. to hand with enclosures, all of which I read and perused with the greatest interest. I have found it exceedingly difficult to get either mail, letters or packages promptly while in Europe. I left London July 10th and left word for letters to be forwarded to me to Paris, and from thence to several places where I went and yet here we have the 28th and your letter only reached me yesterday, and it had waited for me but a few hours. I received a note from Miss Guard, advising me that your youngest brother died after a very brief illness, and I immediately sent a postal card to you expressive of my very deep sympathy with you and yours in the great loss. Fortunately up to that trying incident you have sufferred no loss in your family and I can readily understand what a first break of this character must mean to you and to your parents and brothers. I wish that when you write to them to kindly convey my sincere expressions of sympathy and condolence.755 2, I am much interested in what you write relative to the general work, as well as some of the specific matters of interest in connection with our movement. These particularly in reference to the iron and steel workers movement and contest, the electrical workers, the Flints etc. Of course, it goes without saying that I earnestly hope that every one of our efforts shall prove successful to the interests of the working people of our country. Apart from the matters of conflict within our own rank, the one movement which seemed to me of great importance was that of the Iron & steel Worker's contest against the so called "open shop" with its attendant reduction of wages. When Mr. McArdel and I had the conference in Washington in regard to this matter, I felt it to be the highest duty to encourage the impending movement to resist and to aid the men and the organization to the fullest. It seemed to me that the pendulum in the existence of the Iron and Steel workers organization could be given an impetus to swing in the direction of revived hope and success. It was with that thought in mind I wrote you the letter while in Washington and conferred with you orally later the purpose of rendering every assistance to the Iron and Steel Workers of which the funds, organizers and opportunities at the command of the American Federation of Labor. Just as you say, the press is by its silence endeavoring to create the impression that the movement is ineffective or abortive, but I feel confident that if the contest is earnestly waged it will do much if not to gain an immediate victory, that is, to secure the results at once that its effect and influence upon the men and the trade will be good and that the organization will again take its place as one of the7[56?] - 3 - foremost and active trade unions of America. I have been working very hard since I left Washington; one cannot learn the conditions existing in Europe without devoting time to it. I have met the leading men of the Labor movement in all the cities and countries which I visited; visited the headquarters and offices of general trade Unions, National Federations and International Bodies; have had magnificent facilities afforded me to acquire information, and visited the homes of many of our fellow workers. The official and personal treatment of myself and my party is all that could be desired. I have seen somethings not connected with the Labor Movement, but not much, as my say, my time has been taken up fully both day and late until the night. I am awfully sorry to learn of the death of that great Trade Unionist, Orator, Poet and Publisist, Frank K. Foster. I received a letter from my dear Friend Vice President Duncan, advising me of that fact. I have thus far been unable to write brother Duncan but I shall kindly ask you to either send a copy of this letter to the members of the Executive Council or have it condensed and give them the substance. Will you kindly convey to Secretary Spencer and through him to the Executive Board of the Building Trades Department, my sincere appreciation for the sentiments expressed and conveyed to me in the cablegram sent me to London and which was forwarded to me here by mail. You might also ask Miss Guard to express to the Nebraska State Federation of Labor my keen gratitude at the preamble and resolutions which the State Federation Convention adopted in regard to my European trip and Mission.757 - 4 - Will you also please have Miss Guard write to Vice President Perham acknowledging the receipt of his letter and a copy of the article he wrote for the American Federationist. I should be pleased also if you can let Miss Guard see this letter; it is not an easy matter to have stenography and typewriting done intelligently and quickly in Continental Europe. I venture to express this opinion at this time for I have found a young lady to whom our language is not strange and who readily does the work. You will understand that I would not care to express this opinion under other circumstances in a letter. The end of this week I leave for Vienna, and of course would like to hear a word occasionally from you and Miss Guard and from many other Officers and friends in the neighborhood. I am rather disappointed that I did not get a word from our friend Tracy. For Heaven's Sake see to it that no more cigars are sent to me to Europe. I have not yet received or seen one of them, and suppose I shall have considerable trouble in either claiming them while in Europe or to have them returned to the United States. Mrs. Gompers and Miss Gompers and Mr. Sullivan as well as myself are standing the trip well, the ladies are having an enjoyable time; my enjoyment consists principally in the work and meeting new men as well as old friends. I trust that you, Mrs. Morrison and all folks, friends and office associates are all in the best of health and I ask that you kindly remember me to them all. Sincerely and fraternally yours PRESIDENT OF AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR.758 M December, 14, 1909. A. Lambert, Secretary, Gas Workers' Union No. 12740, San Diego, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 5th is received today, in which you say that your organization contemplates submitting to the company by which your members are employed a new schedule of wages on the first of January, and you are writing to this office requesting advice in regard thereto, I take it that in the event of your members becoming involved in a controversy with the Company should the schedule of wages not be granted, that you would expect financial assistance from the A. F. of L. Now let me first call your attention particularly to article XIII of the Constitution of the A. F. of L., copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will observe Section 2, Article XIII as the Constitution provides that in the event of any disagreement between a local union and an employer, which, in the opinion of the local union may result in a strike, the union is required to notify the President759 W. A. L. 2. of the A. F. of L., who will investigate, or cause to be investigated, the disagreement and endeavor to effect an adjustment of the difficulty. If an adjustment is not brought about it will be necessary for the President of the A. F. of L. to notify the Executive Council, and if the Council approve the strike, the union will be notified that it is authorized to enter upon the strike and be entitled to the benefits provided by the constitution. Your attention is called further to the same section, wherein it provides imperatively that no strike or lockout shall be deemed legal or moneys expended from the defense fund on that account unless the strike or lockout shall have been authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council. Your attention is also called to Section 7, Article XIII, which reads as follows: Any union inaugurating a strike without the approval of the Executive Council shall not receive benefits on account of said strike." I would therefore, suggest, that you submit to this office copy of the wage scale adopted by your organization, so that it may in turn be submitted to my colleagues of the Executive Council, for such action as they may deem advisable to take in the premises in conformity with article XIII. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.760 M December 14, 1909. Mr. J. F. Cunneen, 1942 North Robey St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 11th received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I am now considering the matter of having my European news letters printed in book form, although I have not definitely decided. Of course, if I decide to have it done, it will be quite sometime before the volume will be ready for distribution. You might write me again in the course of the next two months, when I will be able to give you more definite information. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.761 M December 14, 1909. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers please accept my thanks for your kindness in sending copy of the Gregory pamphlet. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.[*762*] M December 14, 1909. Mr. Demarchus C. Brown, Librarian, Indiana State Library, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 10th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that we can let you have the complete bound proceedings of the Conventions of the American Federations of Labor for $17.00 for the set. The proceedings of 1908 and 1909, which will be bound together will not be ready for some weeks yet, but the previous years could be gotten now if you desire them. Please advise me whether we shall accept you letter as an order, and oblige, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American President of Labor.763 M December 14, 1909. Mr. Dwight L. Akers, Librarian, City Club of Chicago, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Replying to your postal card of the 10th instant, I beg to say that I am sending you under separate cover proceedings of the 1905-6-8 annual conventions of the A. F. of L. bound in paper at 25 cents per copy, for which please find enclosed bill. The proceedings of the 1909 Convention are not yet out of the hands of the printer, but can be secured from this office in the course of the next three or four weeks at 25 cents per copy. Thanking you for your order, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.764 Z Dec. 14, 1909. Dr. Charles P. Neill, Commissioner, Bureau of Labor, City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and replying to your favor of the 11th, I beg to say that Secretary Nagel wrote Mr. Gompers on December 8th that he will meet the Committee at his office on Monday morning, December 20th, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.765 Z Dec. 14, 1909. The R. Ember Co., 1016-1018 East Baltimore St., Baltimore, Maryland. Gentlemen: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th Inst. in which you refer to a letter written you by him under date of November 15th. I do not find any record here of Mr. Gompers having written to you on that date and would, therefore, appreciate it if you would kindly send me copy of the letter to which you refer. Thanking you in advance for your prompt reply to the above, I am Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.766 Z Dec. 14, 1909. Gusdorff & Joseph, 117 N. Howard St., Baltimore, Md. Gentlemen: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of December 13th in which you refer to a letter written you by him under date of November 15th. I do not find any record here of Mr. Gompers having written to you on that date and would, therefore, appreciate it if you would kindly send me copy of the letter to which you refer. Thanking you in advance for your prompt reply to the above, I am Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.767 Z Dec. 14, 1909. Mr. Herman Robinson, Organizer, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Will you kindly obtain and send to me a copy each of the October 14th, 1909, and the November 25, 1909, "Independent" at your earliest convenience? Thanking you in advance, I am Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.768 Z Dec. 14, 1909. Mr. Anthony Ripert, R. Secretary, L U. #1365 United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, 2218 Freeman Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on Official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 11th Inst., in which you request the revocation of the charter held by the Cleveland Federation of Labor, which will be brought to his attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.769 Z Dec. 14, 1909. Mr. R. R. Roper, Rec. Sec., Brass Molders Local Union No. 132, 2317 E. 29th St., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 12th Inst., requesting the revocation of the charter now held by the Cleveland Federation of Labor, which will be brought to his attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.770 Z Dec. 14, 1909. Mr. Sam Griggs, Secretary, Cleveland Branch Journeymen Stonecutters' Assn. of N. A., 8121 Medina Ave., N. E., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th Inst., in which you request the revocation of the charter now held by the Cleveland Federation of Labor, which communcation will be brought to President Gompers' attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers. [*771*] Z Dec 14, 1909. Mr. John Vishnosky, Recording Secretary, L. U. #430, I. M. U. of N. A., West 31st St., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 12th Inst., in which you request that the charter held by the Cleveland Federation of Labor be revoked. Your letter will be brought to Mr. Gompers' attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.772 Z Dec. 14, 1909. Mr. H. J. Conway, President, Retail Clerks International Protective Association, 315 Appel Building, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: A letter has just been received by me from Mr. Charles F. Baughman, Box 16, Cambridge, Ohio, which reads in part as follows: "I am now engaged in an endeavor to organize the retail clerks in this city and would be pleased to have you put me in touch with the international officers of that organization, I have not been able as yet to procure their address." I have advised him that I would take the matter up with you and no doubt you would write him direct at an early date. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.773 Z Dec. 14, 1909. Mr. Charles F. Baughman, Delegate, Guernsey Valley Trades and Labor Assembly, Box 16, Cambridge, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 10th Inst. has been duly received and contents noted. The President and acting Secretary of the Retail Clerks' International Protective Association is Mr. H. J. Conway, 315 Appel Building, Denver, Colorado. I have today written to him asking him to get in touch with you and no doubt you will hear from him shortly. I trust that you may be successful in organizing the clerks of your city. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.774 Z Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. S. C. Cross, c/o Strayers' College, Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir: Among other matters which I find awaiting my attention upon my return is your favor of the 3rd Inst., contents of which have been noted. First, I want to thank you for your very kind expressions in regard to myself and the work I am attempting to do, not only in behalf of the labor movement but of the people generally of our country. It is gratifying to know that I have the sympathetic co-operation and support of so many of our public spirited, thoughtful and broad-minded citizens. I note your suggestion as to the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST and will be glad to have you, at your convenience, submit one of your articles to me. Of course, as you can very readily imagine, many manuscripts are submitted to me, a great many more than I can find space to use in the magazine, but I am always glad to have the opportunity of seeing these manuscripts, for often in that way I secure valuable matter for publication. Again thanking you for your letter and hoping to hear from you further, I am Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.775 Z Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. Charles R. Case, President, State Federation of Labor, 1518 16th Ave., North, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Upon my return to headquarters after absence on official business for ten days, I find your favor of the 3rd Inst. awaiting me. You say that the Washington State Federation of Labor will meet in annual convention on January 11th, and you extend to me an invitation to be present at that convention, or, in the event of my inability to do so, to appoint one of the members of the Executive Council to represent the Federation. I should indeed be glad to comply with your request but I fear that is out of the question at this time. The Executive Council will hold a meeting in this city the middle of January, and, as you can very readily understand, it will be necessary for the members to be present here at that meeting, and even though the other engagements were such as would permit their accepting your invitation, yet there would not be sufficient time for them to go to Washington and return here for the meeting of the Executive Council. However, you will be interested in knowing that the Executive Council is arranging for the different776 Mr. Charles R. Case ---2-- members, in groups, to make a trip through the West next year and to hold meetings of the Executive Council in several cities along the Pacific Coast. We hope to include Seattle in this trip, but of this you will be advised later. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor777 M December 15, 1909. Mr. David Lubin, International Institute of Agriculture, Rome, Italy. My dear Mr. Lubin: Your letter of November 22nd I find awaiting me upon my return to headquarters after an absence of ten days on official business. I was exceedingly pleased to hear from you, and read your letter with a great deal of interest. In compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover two copies of the November issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, as I presume that is the one to which you have reference. I am now considering the matter of publishing in book form the series of letters I wrote upon my European trip. I have not fully decided but I think I shall do so. In any event if they are published in this way I shall be glad to send to you a copy. In view of the interest which you say His Majesty, the King of Italy, has manifested in my mission to Italy, and particularly as you gave him a copy of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST containing some of my report upon the subject, if you think he would be pleased to have me do so, I shall be glad also to send him a copy of the entire set of letters if I should finally decide to publish them in book form. I presume by now you have received a copy of my report[*778*] D. L. 2. to our last annual Convention, held in Toronto, Canada, November 8-20 which I directed to be sent to you. I thought perhaps you might be interested in reading what I had to say to the Convention as regards my trip abroad. I appreciate greatly all the kind expressions in regard to myself: I trust that I may prove worthy of them. My great object in life is to serve my fellow men to the fullest and best of my ability, and devote to the uplift of all humanity all of the ability and power which I may be endowed. Thanks for the copy of your report of the recent trip you made through the Balkan states and Turkey. Let me hear from you whenever convenient, and believe me to be always, Sincerely and cordially yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. P. S. On the 13th the newspapers here published a cablegram from Rome giving a very brief resume` of the meeting of the International Institute of Agriculture on the 12th Inst. I sincerely hope that the gathering has been successful and will bear fruitful results.779 LF December 15, 1909. Mr. W. B. Smart, President, Columbus Federation of Labor, 681 Gilbert St., Columbus, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant I find awaiting me upon my return to headquarters. Now in regard to the local union of Bricklayers and Masons becoming affiliated to the Columbus Federation of Labor, while it is true that this National Union is not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor, yet as we are endeavoring to bring about its affiliation and are constantly working toward that end, it is my judgment that the local union in Columbus, if is it in favor of the affiliation of its International with the A. F. of L. that it should be allowed representation in the Columbus Federation of Labor. As you are aware, the Operative Plasterers' International Association of the United States and Canada is now chartered by and affiliated to the Federation. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.780 LF Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. I. R. Turckheim, 300 Brook Ave., Bronx, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 5th has been duly received and contents noted. You refer to a recent meeting in New York City and to Mr. J. s. Bache, who you say, according to the picture made of the meeting, was in attendance. In reply, let me say that I do not know Mr. Bache. Your reference to him is the first information I have as to his existence. While in New York there was a gathering of labor men, business men and publicists at which gathering a discussion was had from all points of the subject of employers' liability for accidents or workmen's compensation for accidents and vocational sicknesses, in other words, that industry should bear the burden rather than the injured workmen or the families of the workmen who may lose their lives. More than likely in a gathering of that sort some "undesirable" may be in attendance. I have not seen the picture to which you refer and hence would not know, even if his picture did appear therein, for not having met him, I would be unable to locate him in the group picture. I should be please if you would send me a copy of the picture and point out the man to whom you refer and I may then be in a better781 Mr. I. R. Turckheim ---2--- position to avoid even meeting him. You ask, "How can a man with his (referring to J. S. Bache) reputation enjoy your social and private company?" I reply that he does not. You then refer to this same man as "getting right into your (my) good graces" etc. I reply that he has not. In regard to the subject of the position of labor men and labor organizations and the trusts, your views have gone entirely astray from the real facts and merits of the question. Let me reiterate most emphatically here and now that the trade union is not, and from its very nature can not be, a trust. It is sometimes derisively called a trust by those who expose their own ignorance of economic first principles in making such a statement. The trade union is the voluntary association of the many for the benefit of all the community. The trust is the voluntary association of the few for their own benefit. The trade union puts no limit upon its membership, except that of skill and character, it welcomes every wage-worker. In fact, its strength and influence rest in its universal adoption by the wage-workers as the permanent and potent method of voicing their needs. Were every wage-worker in the country a member of organized labor, still would there be no labor trust. Trusts consist of organizations for the control of the products of labor. Laborers have not a product for sale. They possess their labor power; that is, their power to produce. Certainly there can not be a trust in anything which has not been produced. Hence, for this if for no other potent reason, it is economically unsound as well as it is untrue to designate organizations of labor as trusts.[*782*] Mr. I. R. Turckheim ---3--- The trade union, through association, makes production more effective, but unlike the trust it does not seek a monopoly of the benefits for the few. The trade union ever seeks to distribute the benefits of modern methods of production among the many. It sets an example that trust promotors may well follow. As producers, as wage workers, the organized men of the country are demonstrating their ability to cope with the situation. They are, as a result of their own efforts, securing fairer wages, more reasonable hours and conditions of employment. It is only fair to say that the greatest and most enlightened combinations of capital in industry have not seriously questioned the right and, indeed, the advisability of organization among employes. There is economy of time and power and means of placing responsibility in "collective bargaining" with employes which bring the best results for the benefit of all. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*783*] X. Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. James Mutch, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 20 Nelson Street, Barre, Vermont. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from Secretary Ironside of the Vermont State Branch in which he says that at a meeting of the Executive Bord of that body at Burlington, on December fourth, he was instructed to request that the commission held by volunteer organizer John F. Sadlier, of Barre, be recalled. He then refers to the correspondence with Secretary Morrison last summer while I was abroad as the basis upon which this action was taken by his Executive Board. I have before me all of the correspondence in this case. I find that just before I returned to Headquarters from my European trip, that Secretary Morrison wrote you a letter, of which the enclosed is a copy, and that thus far no reply has been received from you. I take it that the request and recommendation of the Executive Board of the Vermont State Federation of Labor are also the request and recommendation of your Central Body, and I have therefore directed that Mr. Sadlier's name be discontinued from our records as volunteer organizer for Barre and vicinity. Asking you to let me hear from you in regard to this at your early convenience, I am,[*784*] Mr. Jas. Mutch --2-- With best wishes, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*785*] COPY. Z. Washington, D. C., Oct. 12, 1909. Mr. James Mutch, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 20 Nelson St., Barre, Vt. Dear Sir and Brother: Our records show that on June 18, 1909, upon the recommendation of your central body, a commission as volunteer organizer for Barre and vicinity was issued to J. F. Sadlier. Under date of October fifth a letter is received from the Secretary of the Vermont State Federation of Labor as follows: "Please find enclosed hand bill which is self-explanatory and issued by a man who holds a District Organizer's commission from your office. We have been making every effort to clean out the Industrial Workers of the World from the Italian printing shops here, and have been partially successful; but when we have men like Mr. Sadlier patronizing those places, and on the other hand parading as an apostle of labor, it is time to recall the commission he is so openly violating." I find that Mr. J. F. Sadlier, 24 Elm St., successor to Sadlier and Dawson, is having printing done which bears the label of the I. W. W. instead of that of the Typographical Union. The I. W. W. label is not recognized by the American Federation of Labor nor by the International Typographical Union. I should like to have some explanation as to why an Organizer endorsed by the Central Body should have his printing done under conditions unsatisfactory to the American Federation of Labor and to the International Typographical Union. I wish the matter would be investigated. To assist you I would suggest that you call and see Mr. S. R. Dady, 26 Hill St. Secretary of the Typographical Union #402, of Barre, Vt. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) FRANK MORRISON, Secretary, American Federation of Labor.[*786*] X. Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. Alex. Ironside, Secretary, Vermont State Federation of Labor, 32 Ayers Street, Barre, Vermont. Dear Sir and Brother: Your undated favor was received here December 8th, contents of which are noted. You say that at the meeting of the Executive Board of the Vermont State Federation of Labor, held at Burlington on December fourth, you were instructed to request that the commission held by volunteer organizer John F. Sadlier, of Barre, be recalled, the reasons for this request being fully set forth in previous correspondence with this office. I have all of this correspondence now before me, and have just written to the Secretary of the Central Labor Union of Barre, advising him of the action of the Executive Board of the State Federation, and that Mr. Sadlier's name will be discontinued upon our records as volunteer organizer for Barre and vicinity. I am unable as yet to say anything definite to you as regards having Organizer Frayne return to Vermont, but I have not lost sight of the matter and hope to be able to so arrange matters as to have him do so in the not distant future. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.787 M December 15, 1909. Mr. Egisto Rossi, Commissariato Dell' Emigrazione, Rome, Italy. My dear Mr. Rossi: I received your very interesting letter of November 10, just after the close of our annual Convention in Toronto, and owing to the work outlined by the Convention in Toronto, which has necessitated my absence from the office for a great portion of the time, I have been unable to reach your letter until this date. I will look through the photographs taken while in Rome, and if I have another of the one taken at Pompeii, will send it to you. I suppose you have learned before this that the Supreme Court of the United States has granting our application for a writ of certiorari, and the case will be reviewed by that court. We feel quite hopeful that our contention will be sustained by the Supreme Court. I note what you say in reference to the criticism made by Dr. Eliot of the American Labor Unions and my reply thereto, and in compliance with your request I am sending you the press report of the address delivered by President Eliot, as well as copy of my reply, both of which were published in the newspapers throughout the country. I thank you for your courtesy in directing that the copies of the Bulletin of Immigration be sent me. They have not yet reached me788 E. R. 2. but I presume they will come by later steamer. Mr. Sullivan is here with me, and joins me in best wishes to you as well as to Professor Rossi. We frequently speak of our interesting visit to Rome and the many friends whom we met there. With assurances of my high regard, and hoping to hear from you from time to time, I am, Sincerely yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.789 Z Dec. 15, 1909. Miss Gertrude Beeks, Secretary, Welfare Department, National Civic Federation, 10096 Metropolitan Building, New York, N. Y. My dear Miss Beeks: In further reply to your favor of December 6th, I beg to herein return corrected copy of my remarks which I made at the banquet held during the annual meeting of the Civic Federation. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.790 M December 15, 1909. Mr. John P. Rectenwold, President, United Trades and Labor Assembly, Beck's Hall, Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor dated December 15th was received here on the 15th, in which you state the Trades and Labor Assembly recommends the appointment of Peter Campbell, as volunteer organizer for Louisville and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Campbell 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.791 M December 15, 1909. Mt. M. J. Meyers, 3144 North California Ave., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that at present the appointment of additional special organizers is not within our power. The state of the Federation treasury is in such a condition as not to permit the assumption at this time of additional financial obligation for this line of work, and can only say, if circumstances so shape themselves later we will be glad to give the matter our best consideration, and do everything we can to be helpful. With kind regards, and regretting my inability to comply with your request, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*792*] M December 16, 1909. Mr. William J. Spencer, Secretary, Building Trades Department American Federation of Labor, Ouray Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 10th instant, which I find awaiting me upon my return to headquarters I beg to advise for some time previous to the Toronto Convention of the Federation, we had quite some correspondence in regard to a complaint made by the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners against the Central Bodies of Seattle, Washington, White Plains, N. Y., Wilkesbarre, Pa., and Youngstown, Ohio, by reason of these central bodies denying representation to the local unions of the Amalgamated Society. The Executive Council had these complaints made in mind when it made the report it did to the Toronto Convention. I request, therefore, that the above will be given prompt attention by the Building Trades Department as indicated in your letter of December 10, and that you will advise me in regard thereto. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 793 M December 15, 1909. Mr. Gus Haas, General Organizer A. F. of L., 429 Linwood St., Dayton, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of December 3, in regard to organizing the shippers and packers of Dayton, I beg to advise that application for charter should be made to Mr. J. J. Flynn, International Secretary of the Brotherhood of Railroad Freight Handlers, 409 South Halstead St., Chicago, Ill. I have requested Mr. Flynn to write you direct, giving you full information as to charter fee, etc., and you will doubtless hear from him at an early date. With Kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 794 M December 15, 1909. Mr. J. J. Flynn, Secretary, Brotherhood of Railroad Freight Handlers, 409 South Halstead St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 10th instant I beg to request that you kindly write Organizer Gus Haas, 429 Linwood St., Dayton, Ohio, giving him full information as to organizing the shippers and packers of that city, etc., etc. Hoping this will be given your early attention, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.795 M December 14, 1909. Miss Florence S. Smith, Librarian, Free Public Library, Beatrice, Neb. Dear Madam: Your favor of December 9th is at hand, in which you state the High School Boys are preparing a debate on the question "Are labor unions beneficial, " and you desire some publications in regard thereto. Under separate cover I am sending you some printed matter published by this office, Constitution of the A. F. of L., and my report to the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, and think you will find these of assistance. Inasmuch as the A. F. of L., represents over 2,000,000 wage earners and is the federated body of the entire organized labor movement of the continent, the history of its growth and progress during the twenty-nine 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 17th 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.796 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 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. 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 legislative 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 of company stores; anit-coercion[*797*] 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 satisfactory 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 upon 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 discussion[*798*] 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, Sam'l 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.799 M December 14, 1909. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th instant, in which you enclose letter from President Butler of Columbian University, in which he encloses a syllabus of the Columbian course on labor, and suggesting that it be brought to the attention of the President of the American Federation of Labor. I will bring the matter to his attention as soon as possible after his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.800 M December 15, 1909. Mr. J. J. Heflin, Organizer, Fredericksburg, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant is received and contents noted. I regret that you are not making such progress in your lo- cality as you would desire, but I am pleased to note that you have not become discouraged, but will keep up the good work. That is right, and I desire to give you every assistance within my power. You ask for information as to membership in your Federal Labor Union of those workman who are engaged in the building and other trades, and those members are insufficient for the time being to form a local union of their trade. Federal Labor Unions are simply a recruiting ground for those workers whose trades are not yet organized, 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 respec- tive international organizations, or else directly affiliated to the A. F. of L. In this way the membership of federal labor unions is con- stantly undergoing changes but at the same time it gives the only op-801 J. J. H. 2. Opportunity for such classes of workers to be known and recognized as union wage earners until such time as they can be identified with the unions of their trades. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.802 M December 15, 1909. Mr. Thomas Reece, Governing Director, The International News Correspondence Service, 418-422, Strand, London, W. C. England. Dear Sir: Your Favor of December 1st is at hand; also copy for the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for which I enclose International Money Order for $3.00: also blank receipt which kindly sign and return. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.803 Z Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. Horace M. Eaton, 27 Broad St., Lynn, Mass. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 13th Inst. I find awaiting me upon my return to headquarters after ten days absence on official business. You enclose Mss. which you suggest should be published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, to be paid for at the regular contributor's rates. I would thank you for submitting the matter to me, though I have not yet had the opportunity of looking over the manuscript, but hope to do so in the course of a week or two. In the meantime, as to the matter of honorarium, I would say that the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is not in a position financially to offer remuneration for such articles submitted. As a matter of fact, numbers of manuscripts are submitted to me, many more than I am able to use by reason of lack of space, the writers being glad to be afforded the opportunity of having their matter published, and therefore,if published I am afraid that the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST would be unable to make any financial return. Should you not desire me to hold the manuscript under these conditions, please advise me, when it will be returned to you. 804 Mr. Horace M. Eaton----2---- I delivered your message to Secretary Morrison and he joins me in the kindest wishes to yourself, Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*805*] M January 2, 1910. Dear Sir: You will confer a favor upon the American Federation of Labor and its affiliated branches by granting an interview to the bearer, Mr. I. W. Pollard, who is authorized to procure business announcements and advertisements for the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for the year Nineteen Hundred and Ten. The American Federation of Labor is composed of 118 International Unions, representing 27,000 local unions, 39 State Federations of Labor, 585 City Central Labor Unions, and 583 independent local unions. The membership of the American Federation of Labor is approximated at 2,000,000 and the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is the only official publication issued by the American Federation of Labor to this vast army of consumers. It is, therefore, a medium of great value to legitimate business houses who advertise in it. It is owned and published by the American Federation of Labor, and all profits accruing therefrom go into the general treasury of that organization. Agents are not authorized or allowed to accept payments of any kind. All contracts should be made upon the official blanks of the American Federation of Labor. All payments should be made by check payable to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, and mailed to this office direct. No donations of any character are accepted. Any courtesies extended to the bearer will be greatly appreciated and reciprocated by our organization. Very respectfully, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.[*806*] M January 2, 1910. Dear Sir: You will confer a favor upon the American Federation of Labor and its affiliated branches by granting an interview to the bearer, Mr. M. L. Clark, who is authorized to procure business announcements and advertisements for the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for the year Nineteen Hundred and Ten. The American Federation of Labor is composed of 118 International Unions, representing 27,000 local unions, 39 State Federations of Labor, 585 City Central Labor Unions, and 583 independent local unions. The membership of the American Federation of Labor is approximated at 2,000,000 and the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is the only official publication issued by the American Federation of Labor to this vast army of consumers. It is, therefore, a medium of great value to legitimate business houses who advertise in it. It is owned and published by the American Federation of Labor, and all profits accruing therefrom go into the general treasury of that organization. Agents are not authorized or allowed to accept payments of any kind. All contracts should be made upon the official blanks of the American Federation of Labor. All payments should be made by check payable to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, and mailed to this office direct. No donations of any character are accepted. Any courtesies extended to the bearer will be greatly appreciated and reciprocated by our organization. Very respectfully, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.807 X. Dec. 15, 1909. NO. 89. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: In my letter to the Executive Council under date of November 27th, Document No. 82, I asked for suggestions as to date of holding the next meeting of the Executive Council. In accordance therewith the following suggestions were made: Mr. Mitchell, January 10th or 11th. Mr. Huber, January 10th. Mr. Perham, January 10th. Mr. Morrison, January 11th. Mr. Hayes, January 20th. Mr. Duncan, January 20th. Mr. Valentine, January 20th. Mr. O'Connell, Jan.10th or Jan. 20th. Mr. Alpine, Jan. 10th or Jan. 20th. I might have taken the willingness of Vice-Presidents O'Connell and Alpine for either date, but prefer that the matter be definitely decided by the Executive Council by direct vote, and therefore submit the following: Shall the next Executive Council meeting be held at Headquarters of the A. F. of L. January 10th, 1910, or January 20th, 808 Executive Council --2-- 1910? Please return a direct vote upon the dates named. An early response will facilitate the time by which due notice may be given. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. [*809*] X. Dec. 15, 1909. The Lincoln Hotel, Pittsburg, Pa. Gentlemen: Enclosed please find check for $2.25, bill for which you sent me. It was due to no fault of mine that it was not paid, for there was sufficient time for the breakfast bill to have been handed to your desk between the time it was served and the time I paid the bill. Had I thought that the bill had not been included in the one presented to me, I should have called your attention to it. However, I am glad to have your notice and shall be pleased to have you acknowledge receipt. Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.810 M December 15, 1909. Miss Winifred Howard, 210 Lexington Ave., Rochester, N.Y. My dear Miss Howard: I have been requested by your father to send you some literature covering the subject of "Injunctions" that may be helpful in your debate. If there are any points in which I can be helpful let me know. President Gompers in his reports to the Conventions of 1893-97-98-99-1900-01-02-05-07-08, dealt with the subject of injunctions, but the only copies of these reports which we have are included in the official bound proceedings of these conventions. He has also dealt with the subject editorially as indicated on the enclosed list, which he has prepared for the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, in which such articles are published. 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.[*811*] 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 bound volume of each year. I find, however, that I can send you copies of President Gompers reports to the last three conventions of the A. F. of L. and I would refer you to the sections dealing with the subject of the injunctions. I am also sending you copy of the February issue, which contains Justice Wright's decision in full as well as Mr. Gompers editorial review of it. Then again when the 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., 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 representative from your district. I should be glad to furnish you copies, but have only a few for the records of this office. I would also call attention to a document entitled "Injunction Data Filed by Samuel Gompers" which relates to this subject. This gives some of the most important injunctions issued by the Federal Courts. You will bear in mind, however, the fact that the Injunction cases thus collated are not by any means all of the injunction812 W. H. 3. that have been issued in labor disputes, but merely the most importand ones. If you have an extra copy of your debate I should be pleased to receive it: also any published notices that may be made thereon. Trusting the information contained herein may be helpful, I am, Very truly yours, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.813 X. Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Today I sent you the following telegram: "Washington, D. C., Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. John B. Lennon, Bloomington, Ill. Please transmit to Secretary Morrison check for Three Thousand Dollars. (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS." This is to confirm the message. We have received a bill from Judge Parker for Twenty Eight Hundred Dollars, ($2800.00) for his fees in case thus far. Taking legal fees as they now are understood, the Judge has been exceedingly moderate in his claims upon us. You will hold the telegram and this letter as your warrant for the transmission of the money to Secretary Morrison until the end of the month, when the regular order of financial procedure will be made between you and Secretary Morrison. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.814 Washington, D. C., Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. John S. Lennon, Bloomington, Ill. Please transmit to Secretary Morrison check for Three Thousand Dollars. SAMUEL GOMPERS Charge A. F. of L. 815 X. Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. Ed. Hirach, North and Baltimore Streets, Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir and Brother: I have just written to Mr. Henderson accepting the invitation to address the meeting on Sunday evening, the nineteenth. I will let either you or him know by Saturday by which train I will go to Baltimore. I am looking forward with pleasure to seeing you, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.816 X. Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. George Henderson, Secretary, Maryland State Federation of Labor, 102 East Lexington St., Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of this date, I beg to advise you that I shall be glad to accept the invitation to address the meeting at Baltimore on Sunday evening, December the nineteenth, at eight P. M. I will advise either you or Mr. Hirsch Saturday as to the train by which I will travel to Baltimore. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*817*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Hon. Philander C. Knox, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send a copy of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.818 X. Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. Harvey W. Laidler, 236 Halsey Street, Brooklyn, New York. Dear Sir: Your favor of December fourth I find awaiting me upon my return to Headquarters, after an absence of some time upon official business. In reply to your request for data upon the subject of the boycott, to be used by you in the preparation of your paper for the Department of Political Science, Columbia University I beg to enclose to you herein copy of an editorial which I published in the October, 1899, issue of the American Federationist. I would also refer you to my editorial in the November, 1907, issue of the American Federationist, entitled, "Is the Boycott Un-American?" I am sending you copy of this issue under separate cover. I would suggest that you consult the files of the American Federationist, and of the printed official proceedings of the annual Conventions of the Federation, all of which I think you find in the library of your University. I have dealt with this subject editorially from time to time, and also in my reports to our annual convention, and then again some most interesting discussions upon this subject have occurred upon the floor of the Convention. Particularly was this true during the last annual Convention of the Federation, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909. The819 Mr. Harvey W. Laidler --2-- official printed proceedings of this Convention, however, have not as yet been completed, though we hope to have them out in the course of the next few weeks. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. P.S. Your attention is also called to the report which I made to the Norfolk, Virginia, Convention, 1907, of the American Federation of Labor, in which I deal with this subject. I refer you to pages 20-21 of this report, copy of which is sent to you under separate cover.820 X. Dec. 15, 1909. Mr. Siegfried Gutmann, 165 East 82d. Street, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor received here November 23d. I find awaiting me upon my return to Headquarters, after an absence of some time upon official business. In reply to your request for data upon the subject of the boycott, to be used by you in your debating society, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of an editorial which I published in the October, 1899, issue of the American Federationist, entitled "Is the Boycott Un-American?" I am sending you copy of this issue under separate cover. I would suggest that you consult the files of the American Federationist, and of the printed official proceedings of the annual Conventions of the Federation. I have dealt with this subject editorially from time to time, and also in my reports to our annual conventions, and then again some most interesting discussions upon this subject have occurred upon the floor of the Convention. Particularly was this true during the last annual Convention of the Federation, held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, 1909. The official printed proceedings of this Convention, however, have not as yet been completed, though we hope to have them out in the course821 Mr. Siegfried Gutmann --2-- of the next few weeks. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. Your attention is also called to the report which I made to the Norfolk, Virginia, Convention, 1907, of the American Federation of Labor, in which I deal with this subject. I refer you to pages 20-21 of this report, copy of which is sent to you under separate cover.822 M December 16, 1909. Mr. W. M. Lane, Organizer, Box 564, Lawton, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th instant is at hand, in which you request me to send you the addresses of several secretaries of international unions, and in accordance with this request I enclose to you herein list of National and International Unions, which gives the names and addresses of their respective secretaries. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Grompers, President, American Federation of Labor.823 M December 16, 1909. Mr. A.C. Mendell, Secretary, Local No. 548, Journeymen Barbers' Int'l Union, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant is at hand, in which you request us to send you a list of organizers and central bodies, and in accordance therewith enclose same to you herein. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Grompers, President American Federation of Labor.824 M December 16, 1909. Mr. William Ferris, Secretary, Federation of Labor, 317 Genesee Ave., Saginaw, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 10th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state that the Federation of Labor recommends your appointment as volunteer organizer for Saginaw and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to you in accordance therewith. 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 in the discharge of your 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 Grompers, President American Federation of Labor.825 LF December 16, 1909 Mr. John S. Henry, Secretary, Board of Arbitration of the City of New York, 1123 Broadway, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: At the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held November 8-20, 1909, there was a resolution #160, introduced by the delegate of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America. It is as follows: "WHEREAS, The Board of Arbitration in New York City, in a dis- pute between the Painters and the Iron League, as to the painting of iron used in the construction and reconstruction of buildings, has rendered a very unfair decision to the Painters of New York City, in deciding that painting on structural ironwork was not painter's work, ruling that such work should be done by non-painters, appren- tices, helpers and laborers, though admitting that the coating applied is paint and is applied with the brush; and WHEREAS, This ruling has injured the interests of craftsmen employed in the painting trade to a very large extent, and has taken from the painters in New York City hundreds of thousands of dollars in wages; and WHEREAS, This work is now being done by men who received there- for very low wages, a difference of almost $2.00 per day between the wages paid to the painters of New York City and these apprentices, helpers, laborers, and the so-called non-painters; therefore, be it RESOLVED, By this, the Twenty-ninth Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor in regular session assembled, that we hereby condemn the action of the Iron League and the Board of Arbi- tration of New York City, and the decision of Dr. Peters as unjust and unfair to the painters now members of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of American; and, be it further RESOLVED, That this Convention hereby renews its former de- cisions in upholding the contentions of the Brotherhood of Painters, that all painting in the construction and reconstruction of buildings belongs to the painting trade; be it further[*826*] Mr. John S. Henry--2 RESOLVED, That the Board of Arbitration be notified of the re-affirmation of its former decisions, and that the Building Trades Union of New York City be requested to give the Brotherhood of Painters all possible assistance in securing this work for union painters and take steps at once to set aside the decision of the Arbitration Board." The Convention directed that the Board of Arbitration of New York should be notified of the re-affirmation of the former decisions of the Federation Conventions as regards the question of jurisdiction of the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators. I am, therefore, conveying the resolutions to you with the hope that action will be taken to reverse the award, in compliance with the facts recited in the foregoing preambles and resolutions. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.827 Z Dec. 16, 1909. Mr. Charles S. Barrett, President, Farmers' Educational and Co-operative Union of America, Union City, Ga. Dear Sir and Brother: Mr. C. H. Adams, volunteer organizer of the American Federation of Labor, 527 (or 529) S. 12th St., Independence, Kansas, has written requesting information as to how to organize the farmers of his locality. I have advised him that I would request you to take the matter up with him direct. I trust that he may be successful in the attempt to organize the farmers of his part of the country. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.828 Z Dec. 16, 1909. Mr. C. H. Adams, Organizer, 527 (or 529) S. 12th St., Independence, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: The request contained on your report for November for information as to how to start an organization of the farmers has been noted. In reply I beg to say that the Farmers' organization is not affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. If you will write to Mr. Charles S. Barrett, President, Farmers' Educational and Co-operative Union of America, Union City, Georgia, he will doubtless give you the desired information. I am writing him today requesting him to get in touch with you. I shall be very pleased with any success with which you may meet in organizing the farmers of your locality. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*829*] Z Dec. 16, 1909. Mr. James O'Connell, Vice-President, 407 McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: As you are aware, on Monday, December 20th, the resident members of the Executive Council are to have an interview with Secretary Nagel and Commissioner of Labor Neill. Will you kindly meet me in Room 508 of the A. F. of L. offices at ten o'clock Monday morning, when we will together go to the office of Secretary Nagel? Directly after this interview, will you again kindly come to the same room when we will endeavor to formulate routes for the various groups of the Executive Council on the organizing tour to and from the Pacific Coast? A similar letter is being addressed to Secretary Morrison. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*830*] Z Dec. 16, 1909. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary, 801-809 G St., N. W., City. Dear Sir and Brother: As you are aware, on Monday, December 20th, the resident members of the Executive Council are to have an interview with Secretary Nagel and Commissioner of Labor Neill. Will you kindly meet me in Room 508 of the A. F. of L. offices at ten o'clock Monday morning, when we will together go to the office of Secretary Nagel? Directly after this interview, will you again kindly come to the same room when we will endeavor to formulate routes for the various groups of the Executive Council on the organizing tour to and from the Pacific Coast? A similar letter is being addressed to Vice-President O'Connell. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.831 Z Dec. 16, 1909. Mr. E. J. Stubbs, Rec. Sec., L. U. 428, Int'l Bro. of Electrical Workers, Box #741, Bakersfield, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th Inst. is at hand and contents noted. You request information as to the present status of the Electrical Workers' case.The matter is reported in full in the proceedings of the Toronto Convention, and you can secure copy from this office just as soon as they come from the printers', which will probably be in the course of two or three weeks. I would suggest that you write again in about two weeks placing your order for a copy, which is sold at 25 cents. The Special Committee, one member each appointed by each side of the Electrical Workers, and one by the A. F. of L., met in Springfield, Illinois, on December 9th, and it is hoped that through the efforts of the Committee that the amalgamation of the two branches of Electrical Workers will be effected. The circular issued by Mr. F. J. Sullivan, copy of which you enclose, was brought up on the floor of the convention and was repudiated by Mr. J. J. Reid, representing the Electrical Workers, and by all parties concerned.832 Mr. E. J. Stubbs----2--- With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. [*833*] Dec. 16, 1909 Z Mr. Sam Lenders, Editor, Weekly Bulletin of the Clothing Trades, 116-117-123 Bible House, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I want to thank you for the favor of the 14th Inst., in which you enclose clipping from the New York Call of last Saturday. Somebody else had also called the clipping to my attention, notwithstanding, I am very glad you send these matters to me from time to time as you happen to see them. Again, thanking you and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*834*] Dec. 16, 1909. Z Mr. John Rosch, Secretary, Local 106 of the Amal. Leather Workers' Union of A., 103 Camden St., Newark, N. J. Dear Sir: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 11th Inst., with which you send clipping, both of which will be brought to President Gompers' attention at the earliest possible moment. The clipping is most interesting and I know he will be gratified to have it. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers. 835 Dec. 16, 1909 Z Mr. A. Liston Townsend, 629 Diamond St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 7th to hand and contents noted. In reply would say that in almost every instance where the piece system of employment has been in operation, it has caused dissatisfaction among the employes, and particularly so in trades in the iron industries, such as the machinists, molders, metal polishers and others. There are local unions of these organizations in existence in Philadelphia, and from whom you could undoubtedly obtain a detailed statement as to the operation of this plan. My information is that many objectionable features arise from the piece plan system, and one of them is that of incompetency. When employers put this plan in operation either under the piece plan or another known as the premium system, they practically compel the operator to work at the highest possible speed to endeavor to learn in the shortest possible time in which a given piece of work can be done, setting a price for the payment in accordance with the time consumed. Some men naturally more speedy than others in turning out a piece of work naturally makes it necessary for those who are not so speedy to836 Mr. A. Liston Townsend---2-- turn out the same amount of work in the same given time, when conditions are not at all equal, and they find that a new scale of wages is put in operation for all concerned, which brings about a reduction in wages to those employed in that industry. Besides, under the piece work system the employer or those under him will accept work of an inferior quality that would not be accepted from those who work by the week or day. The whole system of piece work is one of cheap labor and the cheapest kind of labor at that. There is perhaps no city in the country where the perniciousness of the piece work system stands out more forcibly than it does right in the City of Philadelphia in the Baldwin Locomotive Works. This whole plant in its entirety so far as mechanical construction is concerned is operated on the piece work basis, and the wages and conditions of those who are employed there are vastly inferior to those employed in similar industries where work is performed by the day. With the speed up of machinery and the operators of these machines working on the piece work system, the ultimate result is that within a short period of time it makes very young men old, and those compelled to work at the high tension thus exacted, in many instances, makes of them physical and mental wrecks. The result of long experience and observation on the part of officers of many of our organizations has proven conclusively to them that the day work system is not only more satisfactory, but proves more lasting and with better results in various products.837 Mr. A. Liston Townsend ---3--- I might suggest to you that you look up the business agent of the International Association of Machinists in Philadelphia, Mr. Edward Keenan, Room 318, Odd Fellows Temple, Broad & Cherry Sts. He can give you more detailed information as to the operation of the piece work system in that trade than I have the time or opportunity to do. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.838 M December 16, 1909. Dr. C. L. Wilbur, Census Bureau, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In connection with the conference which you, Mr. Dawson and I had regarding the subject of the co-operation of the labor movement with the Census Bureau to ascertain mortality data, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have forwarded to each of the executive officers of all the national and international trade unions of America. I trust that it will be helpful in the work of your Bureau. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*839*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send a copy of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. James Wilson, Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, D. C.[*840*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send a copy of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. Richard A. Ballinger, Secretary of the Interior, Washington, D. C.[*841*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send a copy of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. George v. L. Meyer, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. [*842*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send a copy of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. Frank H. Hitchcock, Postmaster General, Washington, D. C. [*843*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send a copy of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. George W. Wickersham, Attorney General, Washington, D. C. [*844*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send a copy of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. Jacob M. Dickinson, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. [*845*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send a copy of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. Franklin MacVeagh, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. 846 Dec. 16, 1909. Z Dr. J. G. Schurman, President, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 13th Inst., I beg to say that we are pushing as rapidly as possible the work on the pamphlet on Industrial Education, but it is not yet ready for distribution. Just as soon as it is received from the printers I shall be glad to send a copy to you but to prevent any possibillity of the better being overlooked, I would request that you kindly write me again as a reminder. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*847*] Z Dec. 16, 1909. Mr. P. J. McHughes, 2257 Hope St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th Inst. was duly received and contents noted. Upon its receipt I wrote to President John Golden of the United Textile Workers of America, giving him copy of your letter to me and requesting such information as he might be able to give as to the statement you make in regard to the dissatisfaction among the Dyers of America because they are not allowed direct affiliation with the American Federation of Labor. In his reply President Golden states: "I cannot understand what objection these people have to affiliating with our International Union. When we were working under a low per capita tax some years ago, many of the Philadelphia local unions used that as an argument for not wishing to affiliate with our body; and I admitted at that time there was some reason in argument; now that we have got away from the small quarterly tax, I know of no other reason that can be advanced for refusing to join us. We have made splendid progress in Philadelphia during the past year, for proof of this I am enclosing you copy of a paper known as the Textile Worker, this paper is issued as you will note by the Central Union of Textile Workers of Philadelphia, which was until recently composed almost entirely of local textile unions unaffiliated with our International Union, and at the present time we have no official connection whatever with the paper. It is true the Lace Curtain Weavers hold a charter direct from the American Federation of Labor; this organization is one of those National Textile Unions that was not amalgamated with the United Textile Workers when we got together in Washington, D. C. in 1901,[*848*] Mr. P. J. McHughes----2--- the other National Union holding a charter direct from the A.F. O.L., being the National Mulespinners. The latter however did affiliate with us at the commencement and has always been loyal, there being a general understanding that when the United Textile Workers had established itself, and placed its per capita tax on a reasonable basis the movement to disband the national mulespinners would then be taken up. As you no doubt are aware we have raised our tax from Five Cents per quarter in 1901 to Twenty Cents for Month at the present time; and there is in our opinion no argument now as to these National craft unions coming in line. It is our intention during the coming year to make an attempt to bring this about; and no doubt the good offices of the American Federation of Labor will be requested to assist in the work." * * * * * * * "I might say in conclusion that we have at the present time a local union of Dyers and Mercerizers in Philadelphia; organized on Sept. 1st, and they have already paid per capita tax on sixty-six members for the month of November, with a report that they expect to increase very materially in the near future." I take it that the Dyers whom you represent are not members of the local union of Dyers in your city now affiliated with the United Textile Workers. My advice is that you and your colleagues should either become part of the Dyers' Union already in existence in Philadelphia or organize another local and make application to President Golden for charter. This class of work is recognized as coming directly under the jurisdiction of the United Textile Workers of America and therefore, under the Constitution and laws of the American Federation of Labor, a charter could not be issued to an organization representing a class of work coming under the jurisdiction of an affiliated national or international union. I trust, therefore, you will take the matter up immediately with President John Golden, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. I am writing him by this mail requesting that he communicate with you in regard to the matter. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, A. F. of L.849 Dec. 16, 1909. Z Mr. John Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th Inst. received and contents noted. In regard to the Dyers of Philadelphia, about whom I wrote you on December 9th, I beg to enclose to you herein duplicate copy of letter which I have just addressed to the representative of these workmen and which you will please accept as part of this communication to you and act in conformity therewith. It should be unnecessary for me to say that the A. F. of L. will be glad to help in every possible way in bringing about the total organization of the textile workers trade. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.850 Z December 16, 1909 Mr. George Stein, Organizer, Typographical Union No. 6, 616 World Bldg., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th Inst. is received and contents noted. You say that Harper Brothers is a strictly union house and could publish the book. What I would like to inquire further from you before writing Harper Brothers is whether they could print the book with the label on it. Please advise me as to this at your earliest conveniene. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*851*] Z Dec. 15, 1909. Hon. Charles E. Townsend, House of Representatives, City. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 14th Inst., I beg to say that I did receive an invitation to deliver an address at Jackson, Michigan, before the Chatauqua Association next July but I was unable to accept it. I receive a number of such requests but my duties and engagements in direct connection with my work as President of the American Federation of Labor are so many and pressing that it is but seldom I can accept such invitations. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.852 Z Dec. 16, 1909. Mr. Victor Kleiber, Secretary, International Molders' Union of North America, 530 Walnut St., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th Inst. Received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that, as stated in my previous letter, after using the data furnished by Secretary Denney on the state of unemployment in the trade the filled in blank was destroyed, as were all of the similar blanks furnished by other national and international unions. Neither do I keep a record of these reports in a book or in any other form, the data being furnished me in confidence. After the chart is made up the data is then destroyed. I return the blank to you herein and trust you will let me have the information by the first of the month. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.853 LF December 16, 1909 When replying, kindly refer to Resolution #155. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, 222 E Michigan St., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 14th instant, I beg to advise you that your letter will be placed with Resolution #155 for the consideration of the Executive Council at its next meeting, which will be held in this city some time during the month of January. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.854 LF December 16, 1909 Mr. William Dobson, Secretary Bricklayers and Masons International Union, 710 Odd Fellows Temple, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find two circular letters which I have sent to the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions. I am sending copy to you and would appreciate greatly your cooperation in the matters set forth in these circulars. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.855 LF December 16, 1909. Mr. W. J. Maxell, Secretary Order of Railroad Conductors, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find two circular letters which I have sent to the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions. I am sending copy to you and would appreciate greatly your cooperation in the matters set forth in these circulars. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter, and thanking you in advance, I am. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Enclosures:[*856*] LF December 16, 1909 Mr. W. S. Carter, President Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, Peoria, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find two circular letters which I have sent to the executive officers of all the affiliated national and international unions. I am sending copy to you and would appreciate greatly your cooperation in the matters set forth in these circulars. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures:857 LF December 16, 1909 Mr. W. G. Lee, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find two circular letters which I have sent to the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions. I am sending copy to you and would appreciate greatly your cooperation in the matters set forth in these circulars. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Enclosures:[*858*] X. Dec. 16, 1909. Sir: I am writing to request that you kindly send [a copy] two copies of your annual report for the use of this office. Thanking you in advance, I am, Respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. Charles Nagel, Secretary of Commerce and Labor, Washington, D. C.[*859*] NO. 90. X. Dec. 16, 1909. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL. AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: In accordance with the instructions of the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., the conference of the Executive Officers of affiliated International [?] Pittsburg, Pennsylvania December 13th and 14th. I am enclosing herewith a copy [?] Call to the conference, also more particularly, a copy of the Plan of Action and Appeal unanimously adopted by the conference. Your attention is particularly invited to the latter document. You will observe that it requests the Executive Council to issue an appeal not later than January first, 1910, for the purpose of voluntary financial assistance in support of the men on strike against the aggression of the United States Steel Corporation, the men under the jurisdiction of the Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, and the International Tin Plate Workers Protective Association. The recommendation is submitted to the Executive Council with request that the vote [?] here at the earliest possible moment, so that if approved the circular may be issued on time. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.860 Z Dec 17, 1909. Mr. B. A. Larger, Secretary, United Garment Workers of America, 116 Bible House, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from Mr. Altman in which he advises me that the Executive Board of the Garment Workers is now in session and requests that I should send you copy of the recommendations and resolutions adopted at the Pittsburg conference. You will please find it enclosed herein. The matter has been submitted to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor and if approved by the Executive Council, the circular appeal for financial assistance will be promptly issues. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 861 Z Dec. 17, 1909. The Editors of Life, 17 West Thirty-first St., New York, N. Y. Gentlemen: Replying to your favor of the 16th Inst, I beg to say that if you will write to Harris-Ewing Company, Photographers, Washington, D. C., I think you will be able to secure one of my * latest photographs. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. [*I have none. S.G.*]862 X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. H. B. Wessel, Secretary, Ohio Valley Trades and Labor Assembly, 303 Boro Street, Wheeling, W. Va. Dear Sir and Brother: I have been advised that the Circuit Court of Appeals has reversed the decision of Judge Dayton on the injunction issued against the employes of the National Telephone Company. I would be very pleased indeed to have a copy of the decision of the Circuit Court. If there is any expense incurred in securing this copy, it will of course be borne by this office. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*863*] Z Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. Henry G. Armsdorf, University of Wisconsin, 619 Frances St., Madison, Wisconsin, Dear Sir: Your favor of November 20th was duly received, but owing to circumstances beyond my control, I have just been able to reach it. In response to your request for literature on the subject of the minimum wage, I am sending to you under separate cover a copy of our official publication, THE AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, for April, 1898, in which you will find published a reprint of my argument on the subject of a minimum living wage in a debate with the late Edward Atkinson, in which I took part. I hope you will find it interesting. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.864 Z Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. D. A. Hayes, Fourth Vice-President, 930 Witherspoon Building, Philadelphia, Pa. My dear Mr. Hayes: Replying to yours of the 16th, I beg to say that President Gompers contemplates publishing his European letters in book form but has not yet definitely decided. I think, however, that it will be done. In any event, we can let you know as to this in the course of a few weeks. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.865 Z Dec. 17, 1909. NO.91. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: You will recall that the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. had under consideration the report of the Adjustment Committee on Resolution #54. You will find the matter fully of pages 293 and 294 of the printed and bound official proceedings of the Toronto Convention. For convenience I quote the report of the Committee as adopted by the Convention: "That the President of the American Federation of Labor be instructed to immediately institute an investigation in regard to the controversy of the Elevator Constructors of Chicago. If it is found that the claim of the Elevator Constructors Union is correct with reference to the situation in Chicago, in our opinion, the men now on the jobs of the striking Elevator Constructors should be taken off and the controversy in Chicago should be adjusted by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, or some representative member of the Executive Council." While this subject was under consideration the following addition to the report of the Committee was proposed: "That the Machinists be requested to remove their men pending an investigation." The amendment was adopted as an addition to the report of the Committee and in that form adopted by the Convention. In compliance with the Convention's instructions, I appointed a committee consisting of Mr. John R. Alpine, President866 Executive Council ----2--- of the United Association of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, and Steam Fitters' Helpers; Mr. J. W. Kline, President of the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths; and Mr. George L. Berry, President of the International Printing Pressman's Union for the purpose of making an investigation in regard to the con- troversy of the Elevator Constructors of Chicago. In the meantime I wrote a letter to President James O'Connell of the International Association of Machinists and con- veyed to him that request of the Toronto Convention, to which he replied in part as follows: "If you will notify me of the time you expect to have the investigation made, who is to make it, and the date is set when he will proceed with the investigation, I have every reason to believe the request made through the A. F. of L. will be complied with." When I appointed the Committee to make the investiga- tion I notified the Executive Officers of the International Association of Machinists and the International Union of Elevator Constructors, both of whom informed me that the representatives of their respective organizations would be in attendance. Today I am in receipt of the report of the Committee which has made the investigation, and you will find a copy of that report herein enclosed. You will note the recommendation the Committee makes in its report. In the letter of transmission the Committee states: "The building conditions in this city (Chicago) are in a very unsettled state, and the building trades as well as the employers are anxiously awaiting a decision in this case." It is because of this condition as stated by the Com- mittee and because of the large interests of all parties concerned867 Executive Council---3--- that the matter is submitted to the Executive Council and I urgently request that a vote upon the recommendations of the committee be transmitted here at the earliest possible moment. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.868 COPY. Chicago, Ill., Dec. 16, 1909. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. We, the Committee, appointed by President Gompers in ac- cordance with the decision of the Toronto Convention, to investi- gate the conditions relative to the Machinists and Elevator Con- structor's controversy, ask leave to report our findings as follows: Two meetings between the contesting parties and the com- mittee were held in the Briggs House, Chicago, December 7th and 8th respectively, and one meeting was held between the interested par- ties also at the Briggs House, December 8th, at which meeting Bro. Berry was present. These meetings were without results, so far as a settle- ment of the controversy was concerned, and the representatives of both organizations declared that they were satisfied they had pre- sented their respective arguments completely. The Machinists manifested a desire to arbitrate, but the Elevator Constructors maintained that nothing would suffice save the removal of all machinists from the contested work. The Machinists made the following proposition to the Elevator Constructors: If the special committee were able to bring about an ad- justment whereby all unemployed Elevator Constructors in Chicago were to be reinstated under the conditions and working rules and wage scale agreed to, would you be willing to have special committee recommend to the Executive Council that they shall proceed to send out amalgamation plan, the Machinists to agree that they will sup- port wage contentions to the extent of withdrawing their men from the Otis Elevator Company; all Elevator Constructors now out of work or who were in the employ of Otis Elevator Company May 1st-869 --2-- 1909, to file application at office of Elevator Constructors within fifteen days after a truce is declared and agreed to by special committee and both parties to the controversy? This was rejected by the Elevator Constructors. Since your committee felt that a full investigation would not be effected without receiving the version of the employers principally concerned, a visit was determined upon by the committee with the Otis Elevator Company December 9th - by Brothers Alpine and Kline, and the entire situation was reviewed from the employers standpoint. The representatives of the Machinists and Elevator Con- structors agreed to meet with Brothers Alpine and Kline at the offices of the Otis Elevator Company on December 11th - with the hope that some mutual satisfactory arrangement would be effected which would relieve a situation rapidly growing more intense. This conference, however, proved fruitless. The Elevator Constructors' were immovable. The Company manifested a desire, and were anxious to assist us in effecting a settlement. The Machinists were also willing at this time to agree to a reasonable proposition that the Elevator Constructors may offer. Nothing however, would satisfy the latter but the imme- diate removal of all the Machinists from the disputed work. The Company at this time made the following proposition: We will employ one hundred Elevator Constructors, out of work, imme- diately, or an equivalent of one Elevator Constructor to one Machinist, and helpers likewise. They also agreed to pay the Five Dollars and ($5.20) twenty cents to all Elevator Constructors and Machinists, pending action of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L., or until the first of May. This, be it understood, is the wage rate for which the Elevator Constructors are on strike.870 --3-- This proposition was agreed to by the Machinists, but imme- diately rejected by the Elevator Constructors. In other words, any and all propositions and overtures were rejected by the Elevator Constructors, and your committee realizing that further discussion was useless, the meeting adjourned. In summing up our investigation, it shows that the con- troversy between the Constructors and Machinists has extended over a period of several years, and the feeling has become more intense from year to year. Conferences have been held between Local and International Officers of both organizations in an endeavor to settle the dispute, with no results. The proposition to amalgamate has been talked on for nearly a year, and hostilities had practi- cally ceased, pending the consumation of the plan. It had been de- cided by both Organizations to meet in Chicago May 3rd - 1909 to consumate the plan or amalgamation. The Machinists who had notified the Otis Company in March 1909, of their intention to cover all of the installation of machin- ery in their agreement, under the advise of their General Officers, allowed their members to remain at work after the first day of May, 1909, even though their agreement expired on that date, in order that no trouble might arise during the deliberations of the two Organizations in their attempt to perfect amalgamation plans. It was understood by the Machinists that the Elevator Constructors would do likewise; however, this they did not do, and removed their men the first day of May before the Joint Executive Council had met. This in itself we consider showed bad faith on the part of the Elevator Constructors, and according to the evidence offered the New York Meeting, showed that it was the desire of the meeting that hostilities should cease during the attempt to amalgamate. The Machinists made no attempt to force the acceptance of871 --4-- their agreement on the Otis Elevator Company until the Elevator Constructors had refused to send out the proposed plans of amalgamation agreed on by the joint meeting. As soon as they refused to do this, however, the Machinists, in conjunction with other trades connected with the Associated Building Trades, notified the Officials of the Otis Elevator Company of their desire and intention to formulate an agreement covering all of this work. Such an agreement was drawn up on June 12th - 1909, was signed by the various organizations and endorsed by the Associated Building Trades, and work commenced and is being performed at this present time. The removal of the Machinists would have, we think, at this time, a tendency to complicate the situation instead of helping it, as the trades working in conjunction with the Machinists on this work would undoubtedly make trouble for the Constructors in behalf of the Machinists and themselves. In addition to this the fact that the Metal Trades Department may become envolved in the shops and embroil other crafts not directly interested in this difficulty. An additional reason why it would be inadvisable to order the Machinists to desist work on the contested claims is the fact that the Associated Building Trades Council will undoubtedly consolidate with the Building Trades Department Local Section on or before January 1st - 1910. This action is the order of the Building Trades Department and all signs indicate that the consolidation will ensue. We feel therefore, were we to take radical action such action would have a tendency not alone to create additional strike between the Machinists and Elevator Constructors, but would also have a tendency to impede the progress made by the Building Trades Department - and which progress seems in a fair way to result satisfactorily.872 --5-- All things considered, we, your committee, would recommend that all Elevator Constructors who went out on strike May 1st - 1909 - should return to work at the rate of Five Dollars and Twenty cents per day ($5.20) which represents the wage demanded - and they shall work in peace and harmony with the Machinists until such time as the Executive Council shall perfect the amalgamation plan adopted by the Toronto Convention, and in which we heartily concur. Respectfully submitted, (Signed) John R. Alpine, " J. W. Kline, " Geo. L. Berry.873 M December 17, 1909. Mr. Louis A. Soman, c/o Mr. H. Michaels, Sec. Local #13, C. M. I. U. 152 Lenox Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 15th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that more than twenty years ago, I was nominated for State Senator by both parties in the State of New York, but declined the nomination. I was offered the nomination for Congress, but declined. While attending the Convention of the Cigarmakers International Union in 1893, I was nominated for delegate to the New York Constitutional Convention. I telegraphed my declination to the election officers, and when I returned to New York after the close of the Convention, I found that they did not recognize my telegraphic declination as final, and my name was therefore placed upon the ballot. I do not seriously consider that I was a candidate or even a delegate to the Constitutional Convention. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.874 M December 17, 1909. Mr. Henry Abrahams, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 11 Appleton St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant came duly to hand, in which you enclose manuscript of an article prepared by Louis D. Brandeis, but the part of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST containing contributed articles had already gone to press before your letter reached me, hence I shall be unable to publish it in the January issue. However, I shall take pleasure in doing so in February issue. I would like to inquire whether the article will be for the exclusive use of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I trust you are well. Our friends Furuseth and Tracy are here while I am dictating this, and join me in best wishes to you. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.875 M December 17, 1909. Mr. M. Mackay, 18 Assabet Ave., Concord Jct., Mass. Dear Sir: In reply to your card of the 13th instant, I am sending to you under separate cover copy of my report to the last annual Convention of the Federation held at Toronto, Canada, November 8-20, in which I give a review and brief history of the Buck's Stove and Range Company Injunction case against the American Federation of Labor. The entire history of the case will shortly be published in pamphlet form by this office, and you can secure a copy by writing here in the course in the next three or four weeks. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.876 M December 17, 1909. Mr. Frederick Lozonde, Photographer, King St., Toronto, Canada. Dear Sir: As you remember during the Convention of the American Federation of Labor in Toronto, November 8-20, a group of delegates including Mr. Thomas F. Tracy, Jere Cronin, Daniel Harris and myself, had a group picture made and paid for them in advance. Thus far we have not received any of the pictures, and I am writing to inquire from you as to when it will be ready and when we may expect them. Asking you to let me hear from you at an early date, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.877 M December 16, 1909. When replying please state number of resolution - 49. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: At the meeting of the Executive Council held in Toronto, November 21, among other matters referred by the Convention to the E. C. was Resolution No. 49, in troduced by a delegate of the United Association of Plumbers, Steamfitters, etc., which reads as follows: "WHEREAS , The officers of the Cleveland Baseball Club definitely promised the Building Trades Council of the United Trades and Labor Council that a union clause would be inserted in all contracts for their new baseball stands, now being erected: and WHEREAS, The general contract for the erection of said stands has been let without [th] said union clause, and the stands are now being erected with non-union men: and WHEREAS, Every reasonable effort has been made by the officers of the Building Trades and the United Trades and Labor Council of Cleveland to induce the officers of the Cleveland Baseball Club to live up to their promises and employ union help, without avail: therefore be it RESOLVED, That every effort possible be made to induce members and friends of organized labor from patronizing the Cleveland Baseball Club in all cities where the American League plays." The Executive Council directed that this matter should be referred to you for effort at adjustment. You will, therefore, accept this letter as official notification of the action of the Executive Council in this matter. I would appreciate it if you would advise me878 J. M. 2. as to the result of your efforts to adjust the matter about which complaint is made. in Resolution No. 49. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.879 M December 16, 1909. Mr. Richard H. Curran, Reservoir Ave., Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council at its meeting in Toronto, Canada, during the Convention of the Federation, had under consideration a letter from Mr. S. H. Braucher, Metropolitan Bldg., 1 Madison Ave., New York City, representing the Play Ground Association of America, in which he requested that the Federation should appoint representatives to attend the annual Convention of the Play Ground Association, to be held in Rochester, June 7-10. I am authorized by the Executive Council to write you that you, Mr. John Whelan, and Mr. Michael O'Brien, were appointed by the E. C. to act as the representatives of the Federation at this Convention. I sincerely trust that nothing will occur to prevent you and the other two gentlemen from acting in this capacity. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.880 M December 16, 1909. Mr. S. H. Braucher, Metropolitan Bldg., 1 Madison Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of November 10th was placed before my colleagues of the Executive Council during one of their meetings in Toronto, while the annual Convention of the Federation was in session in that city. You suggested that representatives of the Federation should be appointed to attend the Convention of the Play Ground Association of America, to be held in Rochester, June 7-10, 1910. I am pleased to inform you that the Executive Council took favorable action upon this matter, and Mr. Richard H. Curran, Reservoir Ave., Rochester, N. Y., Mr. John Whelan, 32 South Ave., Rochester, and Mr. Michael O'Brien, 67 Saratoga Ave., Rochester, were appointed as the Federation representatives. I have just written to these gentlemen advising them of their appointment, and requesting that they hold themselves in readiness to attend the Convention on June 7-10 next. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.881 M December 16, 1909. Mr John Whelan, 32 South Ave., Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council at its meeting in Toronto, Canada, during the Convention of the Federation, had under consideration a letter from Mr. S. H. Braucher, Metropolitan Bldg., 1 Madison Ave., New York City, representing the Play Ground Association of America, in which he requested that the Federation should appoint representatives to attend the annual Convention of the Play Ground Association, to be held in Rochester, June 7-10. I am authorized by the Executive Council to write you that you, Mr. Michael O'Brien, and Mr. Richard H. Curran were appointed by the E. C. to act as the representatives of the Federation at this Convention. I sincerely trust that nothing will occur to prevent you and the other two gentlemen from acting in this capacity. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor882 M December 16, 1909. When replying please state number of Resolution - 27. Mr. John Mitchell, Second Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: At the meeting of the Executive Council held in Toronto, November 21, after the adjournment of the Toronto Convention, among other matters referred by the Convention to the E. C., and given attention at that meeting, was Resolution No. 27, which reads as follows: WHEREAS, The contention between Typographical Union No. 6 of New York City and the Butterick Publishing Company having reached a stage where it is clearly a fight between all organized labor and organized capital; and WHEREAS, An attempt is being made to place union men in jail for asking their friends not to purchase scab goods: and WHEREAS, The pattern trust, to bolster its dwindling profits, sends out false reports that it has settled with the union: therefore be it RESOLVED, by this Convention, That when we reach our home cities we will endeavor to spread the truth about the difference between the Butterick Publishing Company and the Typographical Union No. 6: that we advise the organized workmen and women not to purchase the Delineator, the New Idea, or the Designer, fashion magazines, and to urge them not to use the Standard, New Idea, or Butterick patterns." The Executive Council directed that this matter should be referred to you for investigation and report at our January meeting. You will, therefore, please accept this as official notification of the883 J. M. 2. action of the E. C. in this matter. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*Of course I am aware of the progress being made in this case SG*]884 M December 16, 1909. When replying please state number of Resolution - 49. Mr. John R. Alpine, President, United Association of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, etc., Room 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution No. 49, introduced by the delegate from your organization at the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., and by the Convention referred to the Executive Council, I beg to advise that this was one of the matters taken up by the E. C. at its meeting in Toronto, Sunday, November 21, after the adjournment of the Convention. The matter was referred to Vice- President Mitchell for effort at adjustment, and as soon as there is any information of a definite character to impart to you upon this subject you will be advised. I am merely writing this to inform you that the matter is receiving consideration in due course. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.885 M December 16, 1909. When replying please state number of resolution - 27. Mr. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the subject matter of Resolution No. 27, introduced by the delegates of your International Union at the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L., and by the Convention referred to the Executive Council, I beg to advise you that this was one of the matters taken up by the E. C. at its meeting in Toronto Sunday, November 21, after the adjournment of the Convention. The matter was referred to Vice-President Mitchell for investigation and report to the E. C. at its meeting which will be held at headquarters in January. As soon as there is any information of a definite character to impart to you upon this subject you will be advised. I am merely writing this to inform you that the matter is receiving consideration in due course. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*Of course, I am aware of the progress being made in the case. S.G.*]886 M December 16, 1909. When replying please state number of resolution - No. 7. Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: At the meeting of the Executive Council held in Toronto, November 21, after the adjournment of the Toronto Convention, the E. C. in giving consideration to the subject matter of Resolution No. 7, introduced by the delegate from the Journeymen Tailors Union of America, and referred to the Executive Council with instructions to arrange a conference with the representatives of the Journeymen Tailors and others interested, for the purpose of settling any controversy that exists, referred the entire subject matter to you and the undersigned. I am, therefore, writing to you to inquire whether you have done anything in the matter, and if so what. Of course, it is unnecessary for me to say to you that I hold myself in readiness not only to do everything within my power to carry out the instructions of the Convention and the Executive Council in this matter, but also to be helpful to you and the organization you represent. Hoping to receive your early reply and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President A. F. of L.887 M December 16, 1909. Mr. Oscar R. Lovejoy, Secretary, National Child Labor Committee, 105 East 26th St., New York City. Dear Sir: During the meeting of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. held in Toronto, Canada, November 21, after the adjournment of the Convention, Vice-President Mitchell advised the member of the E. C. of a communication he had received from the officers of the National Child Labor Committee relative to the proposed Children's Bureau. The matter was given consideration by the E. C. and in conformity with the action taken the following telegram was immediately sent to President Taft: "Toronto, Ontario, Nov. 21, 1909. Honorable William H. Taft, President United States, Washington, D. C. Executive Council American Federation of Labor respectfully urges among other important matters affecting labor legislation, you will recommend to Congress the establishment of a Children's Bureau. Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor." At the same time I addressed a telegram to you hoping that it would reach you while you were waiting upon the President at the White House. I was notified later, however, that my telegram was not delivered, and hence I am now writing to officially advise you of the888 C. R. L. 2. action taken by the Executive Council. For your information and a complete record of this case, copy of my telegram to you for November 21st is follows: "Toronto, Ontario, Nov. 21, 1909. Owen R. Lovejoy, C/O White House, Washington, D. C. By direction of the Executive Council I have just sent the President the following telegram: "Executive Council American Federation of Labor respectfully urges among other important matters affecting labor legislation you will recommend to Congress the establishment of a Childrens Bureau. Samuel Gompers." Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.889 M December 16, 1909. When replying please state number of resolution - 66. Mr. J. P. Boyle, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 345 Cornelia St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: The delegate from the Brooklyn Central Labor Union at the Toronto Convention of the Federation endorsed a resolution in regard to the local unions in Brooklyn which are thus far unaffiliated with the Brooklyn Central Labor Union or which are affiliated with the Brooklyn Federation of Labor. The Convention referred this matter to the Executive Council, which had its meeting in Toronto, November 21, after the adjournment of the Convention, and it in turn referred it to the undersigned. Inasmuch as Resolution 66 gives only a partial list of those locals which are unaffiliated with the Central Labor Union or which are affiliated with the Brooklyn Federation of Labor, I am writing to request that you kindly give a complete list of these locals. The matter will then be taken up promptly with the executive officers of their respective national and international unions in conformity with the provisions of the constitution of the A. F. of L.890 J. P. B. 2. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.891 M December 16, 1909. Mr. Michael O'Brien, 67 Saratoga Ave., Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council at its meeting in Toronto, Canada, during the Convention of the Federation, had under consideration a letter from Mr. S. H. Braucher, Metropolitan Bldg., 1 Madison Ave., New York City, requesting the Play Ground Association of America, in which he requested that the Federation should appoint representatives to attend the annual Convention of the Play Ground Association, to be held in Rochester, June 7-10. I am authorized by the Executive Council to write you that you, Mr. John Whelan and Mr. Richard H. Curran were appointed by the E. C. to act as the representatives of the Federation at this Convention. I sincerely trust that nothing will occur to prevent you and the other two gentlemen from acting in this capacity. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.892 M December 17, 1909. Mr. M. M Dawson, 141 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir: I beg to enclose to you herein copy of the circular with accompanying blank, which I have just sent out to affiliated national and international unions, as well to the Railroad Brotherhoods, requesting information as to the benefits paid by them. I shall be glad to give you the benefit of the information thus obtained, and will transmit it to you at the earliest opportunity after it is received. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. 893 X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. Wm. Jentoft, Box 124, Crosby, North Dakota. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 13th instant received and contents noted. You refer to the matter of the unprotected condition of the lumber yard Managers throughout the country, the injustices from which they suffer, which are due in your opinion to their unorganized condition. You then request me to advise you what in my opinion can be done in the premises. Now, let me say first that the membership of the organizations affiliated with the American Federation of Labor is composed of bona fide wage earners, that is, men working at their trade or calling at a specified wage per day or week or month as the case may be. I take it that the Managers of lumber yards, while no doubt working for a certain wage or salary per week or month, yet as Managers they have charge of the business of the plant, hiring and discharging the employes, in fact, act in the capacity of the representatives of employers. The laws of the Federation provide that business men, professional men, employers of labor, are not eligible to membership in organizations directly affiliated to the Federation. I am writing you thus as to the general principles of the matter, and would like to hear from you further and more in detail.894 Mr. Wm. Jentoft --2-- There is affiliated to the A. F. of L. a National Organization known as the Internantional Brotherhood of Woodsmen and Sawmill Workers. While I am not in a position at this moment to state whether this organization accepts to membership the the employes of lumber yards, yet upon receipt of further information from you, I shall be glad to take the matter up with the President of the Brotherhood, Mr. A. Livingston, Lothrop, Montana. In the meantime, should you so desire, you might correspond with him direct. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.895 LF December 16, 1909 Mr. W. E. Bryan, Organizer 1013 West 4th St., Topeka, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is received and contents noted. It reached here just when I was having a most interesting interview with Mr. A. A. Roe, Legislative representative of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen and the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. I shall indeed be glad to have the opportunity of a long talk with Mr. Roe, for it our desire in our legislative work as far as possible, to have the cooperation of the legislative representative of the Brotherhoods. I hope to see Mr. Roe from time to time during the session of Congress and will be glad to render him any assistance within my power. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor896 X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. George N. Henderson, Secretary, Maryland State Federation of Labor, 102 East Lexington Street, Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my note to you of a few days ago, I beg to say that I shall leave Washington on Sunday afternoon, over the Pennsylvania, by the train due at the Union Station, Baltimore, at 6:35. Anticipating the pleasure of meeting you and our other friends, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*897*] X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. Ed. Hirsch, North and Baltimore Streets, Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my note to you of a few days ago, I beg to say that I shall leave Washington on Sunday afternoon, over the Pennsylvania, by the train due at the Union Station, Baltimore, at 6:35. Anticipating the pleasure of meeting you and our other friends, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*I must try to get the 9.50 train back to W.*]898 LF December 16, 1909 Dr. Erwin Szabo, Chief Librarian, Budapest Municipal Library, Budapest, Hungary. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 4th instant is received and read with much interest. It affords me pleasure to comply with your request to send you some of the printed matter published by this office. I am directing that package be sent you under separate cover and I trust it will reach you promptly. I have also directed that your Library be placed upon our mailing list to receive the American Federationist, the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor, of which I am editor. As soon as the printed proceedings of the Toronto Convention are out, I shall be glad to have copy sent to you. Hoping that I may hear from you from time to time, and with assurances of my high regard, I am, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.899[*900*] LF December 16, 1909 Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reply to your favor of October 29th, in regard to the situation in Tampa and the non-affiliation of Carpenters' Local Union #696 with the Central Trades and Labor Assembly of that city, I beg to say that I gave a copy of your letter to Mr. G. W. Perkins, President of the Cigar Makers' International Union of America, and requested him, when visiting Tampa, to make an investigation of the matters to which you refer. I am now in receipt of a reply from him, in which he says: "Before I went to Tampa you gave me a copy of letter herewith returned, with the request that I investigate, which I did. While in the past everything in Tampa may not have been transacted strictly in accordance with the laws, rules and regulations, yet in that respect they are not unlike a great many other places that have done the same thing through local influences and lack of knowledge. Tampa has in the past had its factions and its differences, as well as its bitter personal squabbles. At present however Mr. Waters has resigned, and Mr. A. Seneriz is now the president. Mr. Seneriz is a cigarmaker and member of Union 500. He may have formerly represented the Cooks and Waiters, but now he represents Union 500, Tampa, Fla. a bona fide organization of cigarmakers affiliated with the Cigarmakers' International Union. All of the other officers are bona fide members, and represent their own unions, with the exception of Mr. J. A. Roberts, the treasurer, who will retire at the end of the present term. Now just a word concerning Mr. Roberts, who as you know was our former vice-president, and in the past was as true-blue a[*901*] Mr. Frank Duffy--2 union man as ever stood in shoe leather, with a courage possessed by few men. I know Mr. Roberts personally and know personally of some of his heroic actions, when he proved beyond the question of dispute that he is a staunch union man, with magnanimous courage. Jimmy Roberts kept the movement alive there at a time when it was necessary that the handful of trade unionists there sleep on their guns. I know that Roberts, whose courage I am sure is A No. 1, was virtually compelled to, and did and does not, carry a gun. Mr. Roberts has been shot at more than once, and at one time was shot in the back, and at close range, but luckily had a heavy over- coat and the bullet struck a heavy piece of leather which held his suspenders intact, where they cross in the back. In spite of this the bullet went clear through but only made a slight abrasion of the skin. I also know that Jimmy Robert's faith in the Central Labor Union and the movement there was so strong that he loaned the Central Labor Union money from time to time and that at one time they actually owed him $700.00. He could have retired long ago if he could have gotten this money, which he has gradually been able to get back, and I believe that last was paid, or he told me he expected to get the last of it a week ago Sunday. In any event he told me he was to retire at the end of this term, which will be on or about January 1st. I visited the Trade and Labor Assembly of Tampa, and had the pleasure of speaking to them, and while I don't wish to be understood as saying that everything was precisely as it should be, yet under the circumstances, there is absolutely no just reason why any union man or any union should refuse to become affiliated." If the Carpenters' Local Union has not already become affiliated with the Tampa Trades Assembly, I trust that you will take the matter up further with the Secretary in view of President Perkins' report and urge that prompt steps be taken to conform to the constitutional laws of the Federation governing such matters. Trusting to hear from you at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.902 LF December, 16, 1909 Mr. David Kreyling, Secretary, Trades and Labor Union, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: It is our desire and invention to have the November, 1910 issue of the American Federationist particularly indicative of the St. Louis Convention. The object of my writing to you is to enquire if you can get for me some good pictures, from which electros or cuts can be made, of the city hall and other public buildings of St. Louis, as well as of the city itself. Of course any expense attached to this will be borne by this office. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.903 X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. F. W. McIlvaine, Secretary, United Trades and Labor Assembly, 204 East Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reply to your favor of the 5th instant, which was received here during my absence on official business, I am enclosing copy of a proposed Convention call, together with an official endorsement of the same, which you may use as you see fit. I am also enclosing lists of the local unions of your State. Trusting that the Convention will be a success in every way, and that much good work may be mapped out for the future, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. P. S. The list of unions will follow this letter in a day or two.904 Louisville, Ky., Dec._____1909. TO ALL LOCAL UNIONS AND CENTRAL BODIES OF KENTUCKY: Dear Sirs and Brothers: The Kentucky State Federation of Labor will meet at ______________ hall, Frankfort, at ten o'clock, January tenth, 1910. The meeting will be held under the auspices of the United Trades and Labor Assembly of Louisville, co-operating with the American Federation of Labor. It is essential that the labor movement of our State shall find its best expression in our State Federation, and that the interests and rights of the workers of our State shall be best, faithfully, and honestly served, every organization is earnestly requested to send delegates to this Convention. The business before the Convention will be of the highest interest and importance, not only to the delegates present but the rank and file they represent. It is the purpose not only to declare for clean-cut policies of the trade union cause, but to elect an efficient and faithful Executive Board which will serve with honor, credit, and advantage to all the workers throughout the State. Trusting that this Call will meet with the prompt approval and election of delegates by all bona fide local unions and central bodies, we beg to remain, Yours fraternally, (Signed) JOHN P. RECKTENWALD, President, (Signed) F. W. MCILVAINE, Corresponding Secretary.[*905*] X. Dec. 17, 1909. The Call above issued by President Recktenwald and Secretary McIlvaine by direction of the Louisville United Trades and Labor Assembly, is in accord with the best interests of the workers of Kentucky and of the country. It is therefore endorsed, and all organizations entitled to representation are urged to be represented by their full quota of delegates. Fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.906 X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. M. M. Dawson, 141 Broadway, New York City. My dear Mr. Dawson: As you recall, when you had an interview with President Gompers in his office on December fourth, he read you a letter which he had just written that day to Mr. Joseph P. Reilly, of New Haven, Connecticut, in regard to a suggestion made by Mr. Reilly that a certain party in New Haven, a close friend of President Taft, would petition the President for a pardon for Mr. Gompers, Mr. Mitchell, and Mr. Morrison, should the court's sentences be enforced. You requested Mr. Gompers to let you have a copy of his reply to Mr. Reilly, and he promised that he would do so later. It is in conformity with that promise, therefore, that the enclosed is sent to you. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.907 X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. H. L. Howell, Secretary, The Central Trades and Labor Assembly, Box 517, Tampa, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reply to your favor of December tenth, which I find awaiting me upon my return to Headquarters, I beg to say that in all probability I may be able to go to Tampa the latter part of January. I cannot definitely promise just now, but would suggest that you write me again about the tenth or twelfth of January, when I will be able to give you a positive answer one way or another. Of course, you appreciate the fact that the expense involved in such a long trip is a consideration, but yet I am exceedingly anxious to visit Tampa, particularly as it was necessary for me to cancel the engagement I had made to go there upon the invitation of the Cigar Makers International Union. However, write me again as above indicated, and I hope to be able to give you an affirmative reply. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.908 X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. James P. Boyle, Secretary, Central Labor Union of Brooklyn, 345 Cornelia Street, Brooklyn, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reply to your favor of December fifth, which reached this office during my absence, I regret to say that my engagements are such as will make it impossible for me to accept your invitation to address a meeting to be held under the auspices of the Central Labor Union within the next few weeks. In acknowledging receipt of your letter, you were advised as to the official reasons for my absence from Headquarters. I was only able to return Wednesday, the fifteenth instant. The work which has been laid out by the Convention and the Executive Council for me to do, within the next few weeks, not to mention committee meetings, conferences, editorial work on the American Federationist, and some attention to my correspondence, is such as will require my undivided attention for some time to come. I regret exceedingly not being able to accept your invitation, and desire to express my most earnest hope for the success of the meeting, and the thorough organization of the Lasters. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.909 M December 20, 1909. Then replying please state number of resolution - 38. Dr. Charles P. Neill, Commissioner of Labor, Department of Commerce and Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: At the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. a resolution was introduced, No. 56, and adopted by the Convention as follows: WHEREAS, Labor Bulletin No. 150 issued by the United States Government, states that the average annual production of the wage earners in the United States is about $2,500, while their average annual income is less than $500; and WHEREAS, If their figures are true, they are of vital and fundamental importance to the working class; be it RESOLVED, That the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor request the Department issuing the Bulletin for details with reference to the relationship of the average wages to the average value of production, and publish the same when secured, in The AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST." The Executive Council of the Federation at its meeting in Toronto, November 21, referred the above matter to the undersigned I am, therefore, writing to you to request that you kindly give me any information you can in regard to the above, so that I may be in the position to carry but the instructions of the Convention and the Executive Council in this matter. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.910 M December 18, 1909. Mr. S. S. Gregory, Attorney-at-Law, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: The several pamphlets containing your address before the graduating class of the John Marshall Law School, June 18, 1909, are received, and I want to thank you for your prompt and courteous compliance with my request. I can make good use of these, and I want to again express my appreciation of your address and the great interest with which I read it. I might say further that my interest is not impaired by what I think an unnecessary and unjustifiable attack upon "many of the leaders" of organized labor. More than likely you class me in that same category of "knaves and fools" or both. It is not necessary to the pamphlet to place our men in an unnecessary and unfavorable light before the audience you directly addressed and the much larger audience that will read your address. I wish I could have you see that what we have done and what we have tried to do. I wish I could have the opportunity of a chat with you upon the very point you make in regard to the labor leaders, for I entertain the belief that you would then have reason at least to change your impression in regard to us.911 S. S. G. 2. Hoping that I may have the opportunity of seeing you in the not distant future, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.912 M December 18, 1909. Mr. P. J. McArdle, President, Amal. Association of Iron, Streel and Tin Workers, House Bldg., Smithfield & Water Sts., Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: I have just reached your favor of December 6, in regard to the suggestion you make as to my addressing several meetings in the interests of the Steel Workers, and about which you spoke to me when I saw you in Pittsburg. I will be able to give you a definite answer in a few days, that is, just as soon as the Executive Council determines when its next meeting will be held. In all probability that will some time in January. My desire is to help, as I said to you in Pittsburg, and I want to do so to the very fullest of my opportunites and with whatever strength and ability I may have. The plan and appeal adopted by the conference in Pittsburg is already in print, and will appear in the January issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, which has now gone to press. I have also submitted it to the Executive Council as to its approval for the issuance of the appeal on January 1. This was the first matter to be given my attention upon my return to headquarters on Wednesday morning. I will advise you later as to the above. 913 P. J. Mc. With best wishes for our ultimate success, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. P. S. Since dictating the above, I have just received yours of the 17th. Yes, I expect to be in my office on the 22nd, and will be glad to see you should you come. I wish you would send me a telegram in advance of your coming. SG914 X. Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. Samuel Graydon, Arch Booster, The Boost Club of New York, 201 East 12th Street, New York City. My dear Sir: In further reply to your favor of December 6th, I beg to say that I should be glad to accept your invitation to be the guest of the Boost Club at the Sixth Anniversary banquet at the Hotel Astor, on Friday, January twenty-eighth. [*1910*]. You suggest that I should make a brief address and that you would like to have me advise you as to the subject on which I will talk. If agreeable to you, I shall address my remarks upon the subject of "Labor's Progress and Human Uplift." Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.915 Z Dec. 18, 1909. Mr. Gustav A. Gass, Business Agent, Federal Labor Union No. 7087, #4 Pine St., Belleville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th Inst. has been duly received and contents noted. You say that the members of the Granite and Cement Workers' Union of East St. Louis have been coming up in your city for the past five months, taking work which really belongs to your members, and you ask that I give this matter attention. In reply I beg to request that you furnish me with the number of this E. St. Louis Union, as I am unable to locate a Granite and Cement Workers' Union on our list of directly affiliated unions in the state of Illinois. On receipt of this information I will take the matter up in an endeavor to straighten out the difficulty. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.916 Z Dec. [?], 1909 Miss Harriet M. Miller, 313 Irving Avenue, Syracuse, N. Y. Dear Madam: I want to thank you for your favor of the 16th Inst. I read it with interest and I trust I may prove worthy of the sentiments you express. It is my desire, above everything else, to be of service to my fellows and of help in the uplift of all humanity. I would be glad if you would send me the copies of the magazine containing the article to which you refer: "The Power of Anthracite". I am sure I shall be able to use them and perhaps republish the article, or cause it to be republished. In any event, I beg to thank you for the encouragement your letter gives, and I hope to hear from you as often as you can make it convenient. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.917 X. Dec. 18, 1909. WHEN REPLYING REFER TO RESOLUTION #58. Mr. James Duncan, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th instant with enclosures received and read with a great deal of interest. Without at this time entering into the other features of the letter, I would like to inquire from you before proceeding further, whether the matter of the Blue Stone Cutters being dropped from membership from the Pavers and Rammermen's International Union, is not the matter which upon your motion at the Toronto Convention was "referred to the stone cutting trades for conference and adjustment"? I have no preconceived notions in regard to the matter at all, but is it not a fact that if these Blue Stone Cutters are ousted from membership in the Pavers and Hammermen's International Union, would not the necessity for a "conference and adjustment" disappear? Those whom I might address as you suggest in the last paragraph of page eight of your letter, would, I am of the opinion, "come back" with the answer that is was Delegate Duncan of the Granite Cutters, who proposed that the subject be referred to the stone cutting trades for a "conference and adjustments. I would like your further opinion upon this phase of the latter, and in the918 Mr. James Duncan --2p-- meantime I thank you for marshalling the facts in the case in chronological order. Reciprocating the compliments of the season, and hoping for pleasant Holidays and a prosperous New Year, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor[*919*] X. Dec. 18, Mr. F. W. McIlvaine, Secretary, United Trades and Labor Assembly, 204 East Main Street, Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter of yesterday, I am enclosing you herewith a list of the unions of Kentucky, made up from the official magazines sent to this office. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.920 M December 20, 1909. Mr. Thomas Atkinson, Secretary, Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners. Room 76, Bible House, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that if you will give me the information requested in my circular letter for your organizations in the United States and Canada, I would like to have you make a note of the bottom of the blank to the effect that your organization also has lodges in Great Britain and her colonies, and that these lodges come under the benefit system of the Amalgamated Society. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*The data is for the United States and Canada*]921 Z Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. Jere L. Sullivan, Secretary-Treasurer, Hotel and Restaurant Employees' International Alliance and Bartenders' International League of America, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: In compliance with the request contained in your favor of the 17th Inst., I enclose herewith four copies of the statistical blank. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.922 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. Chas. H. Sheraton, International Seamen's Union of America, 514 Dumaine Street, New Orleans, La. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th instant received and contents noted. I supposed by this time you have received the photograph which I sent you. I hope some time to visit New Orleans again, and of course, I should be glad to meet the members of the Club and have some sort of a "Tenyard" session. Reciprocating the good wishes of you and Brother Bodine, and wishing you the compliments of the season, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.923 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Sir: I would appreciate it very much if you would kindly have sent to me copy of the latest report on Foreign Relations issued by that State Department, which I understand was in 1906. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy, I am, Very respectfully yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. Elihu Root, United States Senate, Washington, D. C.924 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. Paul Bushnell, The Western High School, City. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 10th instant, I beg to suggest that you get Bulletin #74 of the Bureau of Labor, which gives a summary of the Employers' Liability Laws in the various States throughout the United States. I think this will give you the information you seek for the preparation of your debate. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.925 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. John Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: I am enclosing you herein a copy of a letter received from Karl Kandlhofer, of Vienna, Austria. I have replied giving him your address as President of the Textile Workers, and ask that you write him direct, giving him the desired information. Thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.926 COPY. Eberreichsdorf. My dear Mr. Gompers: In view of the fact that I recently learned through the late papers of our Union that you, my dear Colleague, expressed yourself as saying, during your last visit and tour of observation in Europe, as well as during the meeting of the International Manufacturers' Congress in Paris, (Or International Congress of Unions) that all organized members who should emigrate to America would be very warmly welcomed, in spite of the fact that our Federation Secretary, Anton Hueber, of Vienna, Austria, very bitterly opposed you during the debate. I therefore beg you to send me the addresses of some Philadelphia and Brooklyn manufacturers of braids, cords, laces, etc. where the plaiting or braiding machines are used, -that is where cotton, wool, artificial silk and pure silk are used for hat braids and dress trimmings. Kindly let me know to whom I could go for information if I should imigrate, or would you be kind enough to send me a letter of introduction to use as a reference upon my arrival. What is the address of the American Textile Worker's Union? Trusting that you will send me the requested information in order that I may emigrate very shortly, I beg to remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Karl Kandlhofer, Ebberreichsdorf, #13 Banhof Street, Vienna, Austria. Kindly answer at your earliest convenience.927 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. Karl Kandlhofer, 13 Bahnhof Street, Ebberreichsdorf, Vienna, Austria. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date received and contents noted. In reply thereto, beg to state that the President of the United Textile Workers of America is Mr. John Golden, Box 742, Fall River, Massachusetts. If you will write to him, he can give you all information in regard to the textile industry in this country. In fact, I am sending him a copy of your letter, with the request that he write you direct, giving all possible information. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.928 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. James P. Boyle, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 345 Cornelia Street, Brooklyn, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of he 17th instant received and contents noted. In reply to your suggestion that Vice President John Mitchell address the meeting on January tenth, I would say that the Executive Council now has under consideration the matter of holding a meeting at Headquarters the week beginning January tenth. If the meeting is held on that date, and I am of the opinion that such will be the case, of course I take it that Vice President Mitchell will be in attendance here. However, you might take the matter up direct with him. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.929 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. S. R. Barr, Superintendent, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company, Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 13th instant received, also copy of the article showing advantage of the Relief Department connected with the Company, for which you will please accept my thanks. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.930 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. H. L. Howell, Secretary, The Central Trades and Labor Assembly, Box 517, Tampa, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of the 17th, I beg to say that I now find that in all probability I will not be able to make the trip to Tampa until some time about February 20th, or between the 20th and the last of the month. I will endeavor to advise you definitely as to this as the earliest opportunity. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.931 M December 20, 1909. La Salle Extension University, Administration Bldg., 2715 Michigan Ave., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th instant, and by express the Volume 4 of your series entitled "Business Administration." You will please accept my thanks for your courtesy in this mater. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec. to President Gompers.932 M December 20, 1909. Mr. A. E. Eldridge, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 12362, Galeton, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant is received, in which you desire to know whether the members of your organization would be allowed further benefits from the defense fund of the A. F. of L., Secretary Morrison having sent you checkin payment of the sixth week benefits ending December 10. The Constitution of the A. F. of L. provides for the payment of benefits for six weeks, and that the Executive Council shall have the power to authorize the payment of strike benefits for an addition period. I am, therefore submitting your application to the Executive Council, and will advise you as soon as the matter is decided. As per my letter to you of December 10, i wrote to the executive officers of the Railroad Brotherhoods, transmitting copy of your letter to me of December 8. I am in receipt of reply from the firemen, engineers, conductors and trainmen, in which they state that they are taking the matter up with the other railroad organizations, and will advise me further as to the result. I note your suggestion as to my conferring with President93 A. E. E. 2. O'Connell of the International Association of Machinists, and I will speak to him in regard to the matter at the first opportunity. I may probably see him today or tomorrow. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.934 M December 20, 1909. Rev. Paul Moore Strayer, Pastor, The Third Presbyterian Church, 380 Oxford St., Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of December 10th reached this office during my absence and was acknowledged upon receipt. I did not return until the 15th and today is the first opportunity I have had to give this matter attention. After giving further consideration to your suggestion in view of the work outlined by the Toronto Convention, I do not see how it would be possible for me to accept the invitation to visit Rochester and deliver several addresses. The work outlined by the Toronto Convention was such that already it has been necessary for me to cancel two important engagements, one of which I made immediately after my return from Europe. It is simply impossible for me to fulfill them much too my regret. Upon a resolution by the delegates from the Pacific coast, the convention by unanimous vote directed me to make an organizing and lecturing trip through the country to the Pacific Coast. The Executive Council at its meeting in Toronto, just after the adjournment of the Convention in Toronto, decided that the members of the E. C. should divide into groups to visit twenty or more places going to and returning from the Pacific Coast. We are now endeavoring to prepare different routes by which the several groups of the member of the E.C. will travel to and return from the Coast.935 Rev. P. M. S. 2. As you can imagine this will occupy quite sometime. Then there is a plan of work decided upon by the Conference of the executive officers of the international unions held in Pittsburg, December 13, in behalf of the striking tin and steel workers. It is my imperative duty to be of every assistance in my power. In that campaign I shall visit different localities and address meetings. Then there are other conferences and committee meetings as directed by the Executive Council of the Toronto Convention, not to mention the work on the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, and giving [your] attention to the correspondence at headquarters, as well as devoting time to the legislative work in behalf of our movement, now that congress is in session. Taking all these matters into consideration I am reluctantly compelled to advise you that I do not see any prospect for my going to Rochester as suggested by you, when I say you in Toronto, and referred to more in detail in your letter of December 10. If at any time in the course of the next four or five months circumstances so shape themselves as to afford me an opportunity, I will take the matter up with you further. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.936 M December 20, 1909. When replying please state number of resolution - 54. Mr. J. W. Kline, President, International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Suite 570-584 Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your special delivery favor of the 16th instant has been received, in which you enclose a report of the committee appointed to investigate the contention between the Elevator Constructors and Machinists organization. I immediately submitted a report and recommendation to the Executive Council, and when the Executive Council decides upon the course of action as recommended by your committee, the matter will be promptly taken as recommended by your committee, the matter will be promptly taken up with the executive officers of the two organizations interested. With kind regards, and thanking you and the other members of the committee for your prompt action in this matter, and sincerely hoping for success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.937 X. Dec. 18, 1909. Mr. John B. Powell, 642 Hamilton Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir: Your kind favor of the 14th instant to hand, also enclosed poem. I thank you very much for the compliment implied, but I doubt the wisdom of publishing a poem in the American Federationist laudatory of myself, and as you can understand, particularly when it is purchased. I do not make any pretension to possessing the attribute of over-modesty, but certainly the amenities in this case forbid. Under the circumstances, I can see no other course than to thank you for your kind offer but enclose the poem to you herein. With best wishes, I am, Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.938 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. Erving Winslow, 20 Central Street, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: Replying to your notice of the conference to be held at the Plaza Hotel, New York, on January 3d., 1910, at ten o'clock in the morning and for the remainder of that day, I beg to say that in all liklihood [sic] I shall attend. I request, however, that my name be not placed on the program as one of the speakers, as I prefer not to address the meeting. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*939*] X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. John A. Dyche, G.S.--T., International Ladies' Garment Workers Union, 25-27 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 6th was received at Headquarters during my absence, attending the Painters' Convention and the conference in Pittsburg, December thirteenth, and as my time has been taken up since my return with the work on the American Federationist and conferences which had been previously arranged, this is the first opportunity I have had in which to give the matter attention. I am today submitting a copy of your letter to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, but inasmuch as a circular has been issued in behalf of the workmen in Sweden, by direction of the Toronto Convention, also a circular appeal in behalf of the Steel and Tin Workers, it is exceedingly doubtful that an appeal issued now in behalf of the striking Waist Makers would bring sufficient returns to defray the expense of printing and mailing. However, I will notify you at once, when the Executive Council has taken action, as to the results. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*My best wishes for success*]940 X. Dec. 20, 1909. Mr. E. E. Greenawalt, President, Pennsylvania Federation of Labor, 438 Nevin Street, Lancaster, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th instant received, in which you enclose report of the Special Convention of the State Federation of Labor held at Harrisburg December 9-10, and I thank you for your promptness in sending the report to me. In view of the sentiments you express as to co-operation of the Pennsylvania State Federation of Labor with those who will assist the Iron and Steel Workers, I am enclosing to you herein copy of the Plan and appeal as adopted by the Pittsburg conference on December 13th. This will be published in the American Federationist and has been submitted to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor for the authorization of the issuance of the circular by January first, 1910. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.941 M December 20, 1909. No. 95. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: By document No. 75, the Executive Council authorized the payment of benefits to members of the Federal Labor Union No. 12362, of Galeton, Pa., the members of that organization having been locked out by the management of the Shops of the Buffalo and Susquehanna Railroad. Six weeks benefits have been paid, Secretary Morrison having forwarded the last check today, $198.00 on 32 members. The organization makes applications for the continuation of the payment of benefits. No advice has been given as to the probability of an early adjustment of the matter. The question submitted to the E. C. for a vote is: Shall the payment of benefits be continued to Federal Labor Union No. 12362, and for how many weeks. Benefits are being paid to Hair Spinners Protective Union No. 12363, Baltimore, Md., on three members. They have already received benefits for five weeks, the sixth week being still due. Please return your vote upon the above at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.942 NO. 92. X. Dec. 20, 1909. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter from Secretary Dyche of the International Ladies' Garment Workers in America, in which he makes application to the Executive Council for financial assistance in behalf of the striking Waist Makers, members of his local union #25 of New York City. The enclosed reached Headquarters during my absence, attending the Painters' Convention and the conference in Pittsburg, December the thirteenth, and as my time has been taken up since my return with the work on the American Federationist and conferences which had been previously arranged, this is the first opportunity I have had in which to give attention to Secretary Dyche's letter. However, he saw me in Pittsburg during the conference and spoke to me in regard to the matter. The proposition submitted to the Executive Council for a vote is -- Shall a circular appeal for financial assistance in behalf of the striking Waist Makers be issued by the American Federation of Labor? I advised Secretary Dyche that the matter has been submitted to the Executive Council; that in view of the circular issued in behalf of the workmen in Sweden engaged in a strike, as directed943 Executive Council --2-- by the Toronto Convention, and the appeal of the Steel and Tin Workers, it is exceedingly doubtful that an appeal issued how in behalf of the striking Waist Makers would bring sufficient returns to defray the expense of printing and mailing. Please return your vote upon the above at your early convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*944*] COPY. INTERNATIONAL LADIES' GARMENT WORKERS UNION, 25-27 Third Avenue, New York, Dec. 6, 1909. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am instructed by the General Executive Board of our International Union, which met yesterday at this office, to apply to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor for financial assistance for the strike of Waist Makers of Local 25 of this International Union. So far we succeeded in settling with about 200 smaller shops and from four to five thousand have gone back to work under union conditions. There are over 100 firms still on strike with about 12000 strikers. We are certain that if we can provide them with financial assistance for the next few weeks we will win, there is no doubt about this, for the season is now just commencing and in the middle of Jan. there will be a great scarcity of hands and the manufacturers will have to capitulate. You will understand that it is impossible to levy a tax on those working to keep up the 12000 people on strike. We are collecting in shops for the strikers, and this brings in a handsome sum, but we cannot keep up this huge mass of strikers from such collections, only organized labor at large, coming to our assistance, will enable us to keep up our people another four or five weeks, then we are sure of victory. The magnitude of the strike far exceeded our expectations. The union prior to the strike, consisting of a few hundred people never expected that something like over 30, 000 would respond to the945 --2-- call. Many of them returned to work the first week, but there are still 12000 out. You can understand that this mass enrolled as members of the union during the strike and our object is, to retain as many of them in our organization as possible, are this can only be done, by bringing the manufacturers to accept the union conditions. You will see from this that neither our International Union nor the local was prepared to finance 12000 strikers. But the union, however, was compelled to call out this general strike, for this reason; As soon as a shop began to organize the employers would lock out or discharge their union hands and there was nothing left for our Organization to do, either to give up local 25 entirely or to call a general strike. We did not want to go out of that field, without giving the employers a good fight. The result of this call for a general strike has far exceeded our expectations, be we cannot let the other 12000 strikers go back to work without doing all that is possible to finance them in order to keep them up until the height of the season. I hope you will take this into consideration and do all you can and see that the Executive Council shall do all in their power to provide us with assistance financially. Fraternally yours, (Signed) John A. Dyche, General Secretary-Treasurer.946 X. Dec. 29, 1909. Sir: From reports made and grievances recorded in the Twenty-ninth Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, held at Toronto, in November, 1909, it was made evident that the industrial conditions at the Rock Island Arsenal are far from satisfactory, both for the employes and the United States Government. Reports were made that the wage scales have been reduced, and that the prevailing rate of wages paid by municipal and private employers within the statutory circumscribed radius are higher than wages for similar labor in the Rock Island Arsenal. The highest authority in the land believes "that we are on the eve of a substantial business expansion", and, fortunately for our industrial progress, this opinion appears to be widespread among our people. In response to this optimistic feeling, wage scales in many lines of industry are being increased. The United States Government in its manufacturing departments should, therefore, consistently keep the pace of improvements in the income of its employes, and the wage scales of the employes of the United States Arsenal at Rock Island should at this time be substantially increased, in order to bring them up to prevailing rates paid by other employers. Complaint is made that there appears to be no regularly appointed wage board at the Rock Island Arsenal, such as exists in947 ---2--- other departments of the Federal public service; changes in the wage scale and conditions of employment are frequently introduced and enforced without opportunity of consultation with the representatives of the men involved, as to the advisability, justice and practicability of such changes. Such practices result to the disadvantage of the workers; they cause confusion and dissatisfaction, and the Government suffers as a consequence, because the workmen obtain employment elsewhere as speedily as they can, and this action deprives the Government of trained men, and consequently incurs a loss by the Government to have to constantly break in new men. I, therefore, beg to submit to you the suggestion that in this age of industrial progress and efficiency of the wage workers, the rich and powerful Government of the United States should be the first to recognize the just claims of labor, both skilled and unskilled, in its various departments; and the United States Government, as an employer of labor, should set an example for the States, the municipalities, and for individual employers in dealing with its employes. Complaint is made by the employes of the Rock Island Arsenal, that the chief cause for dissatisfaction is the absence of a satisfactory minimum rate for the mechanics in the several departments, and especially, the lack of a specific minimum rate for the unskilled laborers. Indeed, evidence has been submitted establishing the fact that the rates for remuneration to the workmen in the Arsenal have been recently reduced. During the recent depression in business throughout the United States, laborers generally succeeded in averting a reduction in their wage scales, and as an agreeable consequence, the wheels of industry were not stopped as long as usual under similar depressions. 948 --3-- Consequently, it appears unreasonable that the Government of the United States should attempt to enforce reductions of wages in the face of the stability of wage scales in private employment. If reasonable economies in the administration of public works are necessary, it would be well to follow the advice given by President Taft, in his recent message, from which I quote: "We cannot, in view of the advancing prices of living, hope to save money by a reduction in the standard of salaries paid. Indeed, if any change is made in that regard, an increase rather than a decrease will be necessary." Thanking you in advance for your attention to the matters herein contained, with the hopes that you for your Department may speedily arrange a satisfactory settlement of the grievances existing at the Rock Island Arsenal, I have the honor to remain, Yours very respectfully, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. General William Crozier, Chief of Ordnance, Washington, D. C.949 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Mr. T. L. Weed, Chief Clerk Department Commerce and Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 17th instant received, and I thank you for your promise to send this office two copies of the Secretary's Annual Report for 1909. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.950 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Mr. H. J. Finney, Organizer, Ray, North Dakota. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th instant received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter which I wrote Mr. Jentoft on December 17th, as in that letter I fully covered the subject of organizing the lumber dealers. However, let me hear from you further in regard to the matter, and believe me to be, With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor[*951*] COPY. Washington, D. C., Dec. 17, 1909. Mr. Wm. Jentoft, Box 124, Crosby, North Dakota. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 13th instant received and contents noted. You refer to the matter of the unprotected condition of the Lumber yard Managers throughout the country, the injustices from which they suffer, which are due in your opinion to their unorganized condition. You then request me to advise you what in my opinion can be done in the premises. Now, let me say first that the membership of the organizations affiliated with the American Federation of Labor is composed of bona fide wage earners, that is, men working at their trade or calling at a specified wage per day or week or month as the case may be. I take it that the Managers of lumber yards, while no doubt working for a certain wage or salary per week or month, yet as Managers they have charge of the business of the plant, hiring and discharging the employes, in fact, act in the capacity of representatives of employers. The laws of the Federation provide that business men, professional men, employers of labor, are not eligible to membership in organizations directly affiliated to the Federation. I am writing you thus as to the general principles of the matter, and would like to hear from you further and more in detail. There is affiliated to the A. F. of L. a National Organization known as the International Brotherhood of Woodsmen and Sawmill Workers. While I am not in a position at this moment to state whether this organization accepts to membership the employes of lumber yards, yet upon receipt of further information for you, I shall be glad952 Mr. Wm. Jentoft --2-- to take the matter up with the President of the Brotherhood, Mr. A. Livingston, Lothrop, Montana. In the meantime, should you so desire, you might correspond with him direct. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor.953 M December 21, 1909. Mr. P. J. Dackendorf, Pressmen and Assistants' Union No. 233, 159 Spring St., Spartanburg, S. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 17th is at hand, in which you state that at the regular meeting of Pressmen and Assistants Union No. 233, Mr. Charles O'Daniel, was recommended for appointment as volunteer organizer for Spartanburg and vicinity.. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to him 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 or 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'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.954 M December 21, 1909. Mr. R. E. Schoonover, North Miami Rural Station, Miami, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th instant is at hand, and I enclose to you herein blank application for charter, which should be filled in with the names of seven of the members or officers of the temporary organization, and returned to this office with the charter and charter outfit fee of $10.00. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you at an early date, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.955 M December, 21, 1909. Mr. Henry S. Homan, Organizer 508 Court St., Reading, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your report for the month of December has been received, in which you request the address of the Electrical Workers Affiliated to the A. F. of L. In reply I beg to say that the Secretary of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers is Peter. W. Collins, and his address Plerick Bldg., Springfield, Ill. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 956 M December 21, 1909. Mr. G. Leonard McNeill, Massachusetts Accident Company, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of the Proceedings of the International Association of Accident Underwriters, and to thank you for same. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Sec, to President Gompers.957 M December 21, 1909. Mr. J. A. Mitchell, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 17th instant is at hand, in which you state you are to take part in a debate, the issue being the Open Shop vs. The Closed Shop. 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 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.958 J. A. 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 by 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, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.959 M December 21, 1909. Mr. S. F. Fair, Reading, Minn. Dear Sir: Your undated favor has been received, in which you state that you have the question "Resolved, That Labor Organizations in the United States are beneficial to the Commonwealth" for discussion in your debating society, and desire some information on the affirmative side. Enclosed you will 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-nine years of its existence would be the most direct and succinct form of obtaining an idea of what the organized labor movement 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 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.[*960*] 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 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. In the matter of wages the idea of 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 legislative way, through the efforts or 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 of company stores; anti-coercion[*961*] 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 interests 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 satisfactory 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 upon 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 discussion[*962*] 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, 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 and Labor Politics, by Prof. John R. Commons963 M December 21, 1909. Mr. L. M. West, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 8413, 110 Church St., Gastonia, N. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant is at hand, and enclose to you herein a circular which give the rates allowed to agents on subscriptions to the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you further I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.964 M December 20, 1909. Mr. John P. Recktenwald, President Trades and Labor Assembly, 3724 Rudd Ave., Louisville, Ky. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant received and contents noted. You suggest that one of the local volunteer organizers of Louisville should be authorized "to take full charge of reorganizing the Kentucky State Federation of Labor" at Frankfort, January 10, 1910, and you then recommend Mr. H. C. Searl, for that mission. In reply I beg to say that several weeks ago I arranged for one of the special organizers of the A. F. of L. Mr. James E. Roach, to attend the Convention of the Kentucky State Federation of Labor. Mr. Roach will come to headquarters before going to Frankfort, and will be given the opportunity of examining all of the papers, correspondence and records in connection with the reorganization of the State Branch. I think you will agree with me that better results can be obtained through the assistance of an outsider rather than with a man who is identified with the local movement. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President A. F. of L.965 M December 21, 1909. Mr. Berthold Weil, 14 West Eighth St., New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 28th instant is received and contents noted, in which you propound a number of questions, to answer which in detail would consume a great deal more time than I would be able to devote to one letter. However, I am sending you under separate cover some of our printed matter and reports, which will give you the information you desire, upon the subjects of industrial education, the union shop, the boycott, etc., etc. For the membership of the Federation I would refer you to the report made by the Secretary of the Federation, to our last annual Convention, held in Toronto, Canada, November 8-20. Copy of this report is included in the package sent you. I would suggest that you go to the Astor Library, and consult the files of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, and the official printed proceedings of the American Federation of Labor. In my editorials in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, and in my reports to the annual conventions of the Federation, and which are embodied in the official printed proceedings, I have dwelt at length from time to time with the various966 B. W. 2. subjects about which you request information. I am sure you will appreciate the fact that in view of the many letters which I receive of a character similar to yours, that it is not within my power to reply to each question categorically. You should have no trouble in securing the information you seek in the manner indicated above. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Let me hear from you again. S.G.967 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Mr. K. A. Murdoch, Metropolitan Hotel, Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Murdoch: In compliance with my promise, I enclose to you herein your questions and my answers are given in our interview this afternoon. I was very glad to meet you, and to have our interesting chat on Australian conditions. Wishing you the compliments of the season, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.968 [?] Dec. 21, 1909. Col. George Harvey, c/o Harper & Bro., Franklin Square, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: During my four months trip in Europe, I sent to the United States a series of letters upon European conditions, and since my return the series has been completed. They have been published in the Sunday newspapers in a large number of cities, twenty-two letters in all. They have been copyrighted by my representative for me. Since their publication, I have received many high commendations in regard to the letters, and the suggestion has been made that they should find some more permanent for; that is to say, that they are worthy of publication in a book. The purposes of my writing is to inquire whether you would care to publish the letters in book form and under such terms which may prove mutually agreeable. Will you kindly advise me in regard to this matter at your early convenience, and oblige Yours very respectfully, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.969 X. Dec. 30, 1909. Sir: Your favor of the 17th instant received, and I beg to thank you for your courtesy in sending copy of your annual report. Respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Hon. George V. L. Meyer, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.970 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Sir: I beg to thank you for your favor of the 17th and your courtesy in enclosing a copy of your Annual Report for 1909. Respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. Richard A. Ballinger, Secretary of the Interior, Washington, D. C.971 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Mr. D. A. Hayes, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th instant received and contents noted. I am unable just at present to furnish you with twelve copies of the article which is to appear in the American Federationist under the heeding "Labor and the Steel Trust", but I am sending you five copies, all that I have, except one that I am retaining for reference until the magazine comes off the press. The circular has not yet been printed, but if approved by the Executive Council, and I am of the opinion that it will be, it will be printed at the earliest possible moment and I will be glad to send as many copies to you as you may desire. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 972 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Mr. H. M. Eaton, 27 Breed Street, Lynn, Massachusetts. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor the 19th received and contents noted. In compliance with your request, I return herein your manuscript entitled "The Blessings of Liberty." As I was unable to use it in the January issue and was so crowded with other more pressing matters that required my attention, I did not attempt to read the manuscript and have not read it yet, and as there is so much matter already outlined which it is necessary to publish in the February issue, I know it would be impossible to get it into that number, and therefor, acting upon you suggestion that you will be able to use it elsewhere, I return it to you herein and thank you for your courtesy in sending it to me. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. [*Let me hear from you at your convenience. Merry Christmas*]973 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Mr. H. S. Braucher, Secretary, Playground Association of America, Metropolitan Building, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 20th instant received and contents noted. Now as to your suggestion that I should attend the meeting of the Playground Association on June the ninth, the Executive Council having appointed representatives of the Federation to attend this meeting, I beg to say that while the date is too far in advance for me to make a definite engagement now, yet in view of the fact that Federation representatives have been appointed, I question the advisability of the attendance of any further representatives. However, if I find later that I can act upon your suggestion, I shall certainly give the matter careful consideration. With kind regards, I am, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.974 M December 21, 1909. Mr. A. H. Gill, Mr. J. R. Clynes, Fraternal Delegates from the British Trades Union Congress, London, England. My dear Sirs: While in attendance at the Convention of the American Federation of Labor held last month, you are aware that the following resolutions were introduced and unanimously adopted: RESOLVED, That the American Federation of Labor in Convention assembled, place upon record its appreciation of and admiration for that great tribune of the people in the British Parliament, Lloyd-George, Chancellor of the British Exchequer, for his herculean support through the British Budget of the welfare and interests of the whole people of his country, as opposed to the opposition he has aroused among the aristocracy therein, in their defence of property; RESOLVED, That we recognize in that contention the economic struggle in which we are also engaged, viz, whether in the advancement of civilization the rights of the people, or the interests of property shall be paramount; and, that in our broad gauged internationalism we here and now send back to Great Britain through its Fraternal Delegates to this Convention the God-speed of the assembled delegates to Lloyd George and to his associates in the great effort being made through the pending adoption of the British Budget of a great and grand principle directly affecting the best interests of the masses of the people. It seemed to me that an authentic copy of these resolutions should be in your possession for such disposition as you might deem necessary and advisable.975 A. H. G. While disavowing in any manner any interference with the internal affairs of your country, the American Federation of Labor could not refrain from expressing the interest our people in America feel for the principles for which the mass of the people of Great Britain are now contending, and for whose success we earnestly hope. With kind regards and best wishes to you and to all friends of justice and progress, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.976 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Mr. J. D. Pierce, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, General Delivery, Apollo, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Quite a number of newspapers are editorially attacking the movement we have inaugurated in Pittsburg to help the men who are employed by the United States Steel Corporation. I have not the slightest doubt but what it is prompted by the influence of the Corporation Managers. They would go to great lengths to minimize our efforts or pervert our purposes. I am enclosing to you herein a copy of an editorial from the Chicago Inter Ocean of December sixteenth, 1909, under the caption, "What Are the Gompers Grievances?" With the justification of our movement I shall be able to deal without assistance. The purpose of my writing to you, however, is to call your attention to the paragraph beginning with the words, "As to the alleged suppression of free assembly and free speech, the general public must ask, 'WHERE'?" At the Pittsburg meeting you gave a detailed account of the matters to which this part of the editorial refers. Others confirmed many of your statements and added others, but all agreed that yours was the most clear and comprehensive in detail. The purpose of my writing is to ask you to at once write me fully the details of the facts you related in your statement at977 Mr. J. D. Pierce --2-- Pittsburg, giving names, dates, addresses, etc., etc. If you can get some of the men to write a few words stating that in so far as your statement is concerned as applying to them it is true, and of course if it is true, it will add to the importance of the statement as verification. It is highly important that this should be in my hands as soon as possible, and say within a week from now. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.978 COPY. EDITORIAL FROM THE CHICAGO INTER OCEAN, DECEMBER 16, 1909. ---------------------------------------- WHAT ARE THE GOMPERS GRIEVANCES? Samuel Gompers and nine other officials of the American Federation of Labor met at Pittsburg on Tuesday and issued what is evidently meant to be a declaration of war against the United States Steel corporation. Now, a combat between an organization of capital representing about 60 per cent of the country's steel production and an organization of wage-workers numbering, we believe, more than 2,000,000 men may be a very serious matter. The general public plainly have a right to know what are the causes that move Mr. Gompers and his associates to engage in a strife whose consequences may be so far-reaching. We may assume that Mr. Gompers and his associates have good causes, but what are they? That assumption cannot be permanently made unless these causes are clearly stated and shown to be adequate and justifying. And it must be observed with regret, for the sake of the men who are asked to hazard their livelihood in the strife, that such causes are far from clearly set forth in the indignant manifesto issued by Mr. Gompers and his associates. In several hundred words to the effect that "a crisis has arisen in the affairs of labor," that the Steel corporation has "declared war on labor" and has "decreed that organized labor shall be crushed," etc., etc., we have been able to find but three statements purporting to be a specific grievance. These are that: 1. On June 1 the Steel corporation proclaimed its decree that the right of the workers to associate for their common protection was no longer to be recognized or tolerated. 2. Accompanying that decree was a notice of further reduction979 --2-- of the already scant wages of the workers. 3. At the instance of the Steel corporation, officers of local and state governments have tyrannized over citizens, invading the constitutionally guaranteed rights of free assembly and free speech. We believe that the second count in this indictment is in part true - that the Steel corporation has to some extent reduced wages. That these wage were "already scant" many will be inclined to doubt, though it may be so. They will remember that two and three years ago, when various industries and enterprises were hampered for lack of workers at any wages they could pay, the Steel Corporation seemed to find no trouble in getting all the men it needed. The necessary conclusion is that the Steel corporation was then paying wages above the average. Whether it has now reduced them below the decent average of the communities where paid is an assertion which may be true, but which is not proved by the Gompers manifesto. The other two counts contain news which is highly important if it happens to be true. In the first it appears to be asserted that the Steel corporation has denied the right of its employes to belong to trade unions at all. That is not the general understanding of the situation. The understanding is that the Steel corporation simply declared that it would in no way discriminate between union and non- union men -- that it would employ either as they presented themselves and were found available -- that it would, in brief, run its plants as "open shops." Mr. Gompers and his associates and followers will find it a very difficult task to persuade the overwhelming majority of American citizens that a man's right to take any job offered at wages that suit him should be denied simply because he does not choose to belong to a labor union. If Mr. Gompers can assign no better980 --3-- grievance than the "open shop" for the war he has declared his cause is lost before the battle begins. As to the alleged suppression of free assembly and free speech, the general public must ask, "Where?" The steel corporation has large works in and about Chicago. Its employes in the communities. in question seem to be holding meetings whenever they like and saying at those meetings, and wherever else it suits them to speak, whatever they deem to be for their interests or the public welfare. Nothing has been heard of any interference by the local authorities with their rights of free assembly and free speech. Where has there been such interference? We fear that here Mr. Gompers is merely ventilation his personal grievance, the result of his own refusal to obey the courts, pending decision of a point at issue. However that may be, the American Federation of Labor would do well to issue a supplementary statement of the concrete facts in this case.[*981*] X. Dec. 21, 1908. Mr. Charles E. Lawyer, Secretary, Int'l. Tin Plate Workers Protective Association Room 20, Reilly Block, Wheeling, West Virginia. Dear Sir and Brother: Quite a number of newspapers are editorially attacking the movement we have inaugurated in Pittsburg to help the men who are employed by the United Steel Corporation. I have not the slightest doubt but what it is prompted by the influence of the Corporation Managers. They would go to great lengths to minimize our efforts or pervert our purpose. I am enclosing to you herein a copy of an editorial from the Chicago Inter Ocean of December 16th, 1909, under the caption, "What Are the Gompers Grievances." With the justification of our movement I shall be able to deal without assistance. The purpose of my writing to you, however, is to call your attention to the paragraph beginning with the words, "As to the alleged suppression of free assembly and free speech, the general public must ask, 'WHERE'?" At the Pittsburg meeting you gave several instances of the matters to which this part of the editorial refers. The purpose of my writing is to ask you to at once write me fully the details of the facts you related in your statement at Pittsburg, giving names, dates, addresses, etc., etc. If you can get some of the men to write a few words stating that in so far as982 Mr. Chas. E. Lawyer --2-- your statement is concerned as applying to them it is true, and of course if it is true, it will add to the importance of the statement as verification. It is highly important that this should be in my hands as soon as possible, and say withing a week from now. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.983 X. Dec. 21, 1909. Mr. P. J. McArdle, President Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, House Bldg., Smithfield and Water Streets, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: Quite a number of newspapers are editorially attacking the movement we have inaugurated in Pittsburg to help the men who are employed by the United States Steel Corporation. I have not the slightest doubt but what it is prompted by the influence of the Corporation Managers. They would go to great lengths to minimize our efforts or pervert our purposes. I am enclosing to you herein a copy of an editorial from the Chicago Inter Ocean of December 16th, 1909, under the caption, "What Are the Gompers Grievances?" With the justification of our movement I shall be able to deal without assistance. The purpose of my writing to you, however, is to call your attention to the paragraph beginning with the words, "As to the alleged suppression of free assembly and free speech, the general public must ask "WHERE?" At the Pittsburg meeting you gave several instances of the matters to which this part of the editorial refers. The purpose of my writing is to ask you to at once write me fully the details of the facts you deleted in your statement at Pittsburg, giving names, dates, addresses, etc., etc. If you can[*984*] Mr. P. J. McArdle ---2--- get some of the men to write a few words, stating in so far as your statement is concerned as applying to them it is true, and of course if it is true, it will add to the importance of the statement as verification. It is highly important that this should be in my hands as soon as possible, and say within a week from now. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*985*] X. NO. 94. Dec. 21, 1909. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATON OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES: In compliance with the action of the Toronto Convention, and as subsequently directed by the Executive Council, Vice Presidents Mitchell and O'Connell, Secretary Morrison and I, had a conference with the Secretary of Commerce and Labor, Mr. Engel, and the Commissioner of Labor, Dr. Neill. We made a formal request of the Secretary and Commissioner to undertake an investigation of the entire subject of industrial education, both in the United States and in other countries. Although a definite affirmative answer was not given, from the tone of the statements made by both officers, no other inference was possible than that a most comprehensive investigation of the subject of industrial education will be undertaken by the Bureau of Labor during the coming year, that is, immediately after the present investigation of women and child labor is completed, which we are informed will be in the course of a few months. In connection with this latter investigation, I should say that Commissioner Neill stated that in some way or other partial features of the investigation of women and child would be permanently continued. At the same conference we brought to the attention of the[*986*] Executive Council --2-- Secretary and Commissioner Resolution #67 as adopted by the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor relative to the establishment of a specific permanent department for the investigation and report upon the condition of working women in the United States with a view to protective legislation and the propriety of appointing a woman as the head of such department. Under date of November 30th I communicated with both officials upon this subject. They at the interview repeated what they had stated to me in letters, that the matter of the establishment of a permanent bureau would be fully considered, and more than likely favorably determined. As to the appointment of a woman as the head of the bureau, the statement was made that the only question that they had to determine would be the competency rather than deciding as to whether the head of the bureau should be a man or a woman. This communication is to the Executive Council for the information it contains. I ask the members of the Executive Council to accept the compliments of the season, and my best wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.987 X. Dec. 22, 1909. Hon. William S. Chandler, 1421 I Street, N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: During our conversation today in my office you indicated your willingness to meet me here at any time convenient for the purpose of examining the papers about which we talked. I am writing to inquire if 12 o'clock on Tuesday, December 28th, will be convenient for you to come. Please advise me as to this, and oblige, Very sincerely yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*988*] X. Dec 22, 1909. Mr. Theo. E. Strauss, F. S. Local #135, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 526 West 9th Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin. Dear Sir and Brother: Owing to absence from Headquarters on official business, I have just been able to reach your favor of December seventh, in which you say: "As we are in arrears to both Collins and Murphy, and we do not care to pay to either of them until this dual trouble is settled, will we be allowed to seat a delegate at the convention, if one is called by the A. F. of L." I reply most certainly not, unless both sides interested agree. I am therefore writing to Mr. J. J. Reid and Mr. Frank J. McNulty, advising them of your letter to me and of my reply thereto. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*989*] X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mr. H. A. Smith, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 754, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th instant received and contents noted. I also have before me your letter of December 6th in which you return your commission as Volunteer Organizer inasmuch or you have withdrawn from membership in the Barbers Local Union by reason of the fact that you had opened a shop of your own and had become an employer, therefore being ineligible of membership in the local under the laws of that organization. I have carefully read all that you say as regards your desire to continue actively in the movement, and I assure you that we want your sympathetic cooperation and assistance in every way in which you can give it. However, inasmuch as under the laws of the International Union in which you hold your membership you are no longer eligible to membership therein, of course you would also be ineligible to membership in a local union directly affiliated to the Federation, and therefore would be ineligible to hold a commission as Volunteer Organizer for the A. F. of L., though thus being debarred from taking an active part in the movement as a member of a local union affiliated to the A. F. of L., yet I am sure there will be many opportunities presented to you as a business man to manifest and demonstrate your unchanged sympathy, cooperation and loyalty to[*990*] Mr. H. A, Smith --2 - the great principles for which the organized labor movement stands. I would be very glad to have your write me from time whenever you may feel that there are any matters of interest about which you desire to communicate. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.991 X. Dec. 22, 1909. The Buffalo Republic, Buffalo, New York. Gentlemen: Your telegram of December the thirteenth was delivered to me at Pittsburg, but I was unable to make the reply you requested, and hence I am simply writing this as an acknowledgement of the receipt of your telegram and to express my regret that I could not do as you requested. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*992*] X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mr. H. A. Sinclair, Business Agent, Building Trades, 69 Canal Street, Grand Rapids, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the tenth instant to hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that when your letter was received, the January issue of the American Federationist had already gone to press. However, if it will not be too late, I will endeavor to make some reference to your letter in the February issue. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.993 X. Dec. 22, 1909. Dr. W. H. Tolman, Director, Museum of Safety and Sanitation, United Engineering Societies' Building, 29 West 30th Street, New York City. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 11th instant has been duly received. I am glad that you took my criticism of your lecture in good spirit. I thought that you would or I should not have ventured to write as I did to you. Now, as to the other matter to which you refer in your letter, in which way do you think we could make our endorsement of the Museum? Let me suggest that you draft such a statement and submit it to me, and I in turn will place it before my colleagues of the Executive Council. Of course, I do not promise to accept the draft of the statement just as you submit it, but at any rate, let me have your idea upon the subject and it will be helpful. Both the Executive Council and myself want to aid to the very fullest of our ability. Hoping to hear from you further at your convenience, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.994 M December 22, 1909. Mr. Berthold Weil, 14 West 84th St., New York City. Dear Sir: In addition to my letter to you of yesterday, and in further reply to yours of December 18, you say that at one time Bebel, the Leader of the Socialists Party in Germany in the Reichstag, in reply to a statement made that his party wished to prohibit homework, said " We do not wish anything of the sort: that would be hard and cruel." I wish you would advise me where I can obtain an authentic copy of this statement made by Mr. Bebel. Thanking you in advance for your prompt reply, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.995 M December 22, 1909. Mr. Gifford Pinchot, Chairman, Joint Committee on Conservation, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 14th instant has been duly received, in which you advise me that James C. Gipe has been appointed by you to succeed Mr. Shipp as Secretary of the Joint Committee on Conservation. You can rest assured that the Committee of the Federation will be glad to co-operate with Mr. Gipe in any way that will advance the purpose for which the Conservation Committee was formed. I desire to acknowledge receipt of the report of the National Conservation Commission, for which you will please accept my thanks. Very sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. [*It may not displease you, at this time, particularly, to say that I have faith in you. S. G.*]996 M December 22, 1909. Mr. Henry Abrahams, Secretary, Cigarmakers Local Union No.97, 987 Washington St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant received, and I want to congratulate you and the members of Local No. 97, upon the magnificent work they have done. It is a record to be proud of, and I am particularly gratified that such a record is made by a union of Cigarmakers. Wishing you the Compliments of the Season, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.997 M December 22, 1909. Mr. Michael Goldsmith, Member, Organization Committee C. F. of L., 1856 East Sixth St., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: I have just been able to reach your letter of December 3, which was received here during my absence on official business as directed by the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. The receipt of your letter has already been acknowledged, and I am now writing to advise you that the entire subject matter of the application for the revocation of the charter of the Cleveland Federation of Labor will be submitted to my colleagues of the Executive Council at their meeting which will be held in this city sometime next month, and I am so advising the applicants. I am free to express the opinion, however, that it is doubtful that the Executive Council will revoke the charter of the organization, whose only offending has been that it has stood loyally by the decisions of the Conventions of the American Federation of Labor. Wishing you the Compliments of the Season, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.998 M December 22, 1909. Mr. Harry D. Thomas, 717 Superior Ave., N. E., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Owing to my absence from headquarters on official business by direction of the Toronto Convention, I have just been able to reach your two favors of December 2nd and 4th, the receipt of which has already been acknowledged. Now in regard to the matter of the application for the revocation of the charter now held by the Cleveland Federation of Labor, I beg to say that I have no right to take up the matter, but the entire subject will be placed before my colleagues of the Executive Council at their meeting which will be held in this city sometime next month. I am free to express the opinion, however, that it is doubtful if the Council will revoke the charter of the organization, whose only offending has been that it has stood loyally by the decisions of the conventions of the American Federation of Labor. Wishing you the Compliments of the Season, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.999 M December 22, 1909. Mr. John B. Connolly, Secretary, Ohio Federation of Labor, Room 11, Temple Bar Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 7th addressed to Secretary Morrison was handed to me by him on my return to headquarters after an absence on official business as directed by the Toronto Convention. You request that I should send out a letter to all local unions as well as nationals and central bodies, in regards to the situation in Ohio. In reply I beg to advise you that the matter will be placed before my colleagues of the Executive Council at their meeting which will be held in this city sometime next month, and you will be advised as promptly as possible as to the decision reached. Wishing you the Compliments of the Season, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.1000 M December 22, 1909. Mr. August Smith, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Clark's Hall, Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reply to your favor of December 10, which reached this office during my absence on official business, and was acknowledged upon receipt, I beg to advise that your letter together with a similar letter from the Ohio Federation of Labor will be placed before my colleagues of the Executive Council at their meeting which will be held in this city sometime next month, and you will advised as promptly as possible of the decision reached. Wishing you the Compliments of the Season, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.1001 M December 22, 1909. Mr. Charles W. Eliot, President, National Conservation Association, 1170 The Fifth Avenue Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir: Owing to my absence from headquarters on official business I have just been able to reach your letter of December 1. In reply I beg to say that I am in sympathy with any movement that has for its purpose the conservation of the natural resources of our country. To that end I am doing the best I can as a citizen, as a man, and as President of the American Federation of Labor. For sometime I have been in close touch with Mr. Gifford Pinchot, Chairman, Joint Committee on Conservation, and cooperating with him and his Commission, and through him with any other associations or commissions which is working toward the same end, that is, for the Conservation of our Natural Resources. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*1002*] M December 22, 1909. Mr. H. B. Perham, Eighth Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of December 5th to hand and contents noted. It is only after my return to headquarters that I saw it, and have been busy since with work demanding my immediate attention. The Supreme Court of the United States granted the writ of certiorari as you know, and we are very much gratified as well as hopeful for the result. To get the case before the Supreme Court for review is what we most desire, and our attorneys feel very confident that the Supreme Court will sustain our contention. Our attorneys have agreed with the attorneys of the Buck's Stove and Range Company to petition the Court to push the case forward on the calendar, so that it may be taken up at an early date. We are not yet advised as to whether the court will do this, but I trust our request will be granted. Now as to your suggestion regarding Justice Wright and Justice Gould, the Executive Council decided that action should be taken along these lines, but it has been simply held off for tactful reasons. If the Supreme Court of the United States shall maintain our contention, there can be no question but the course suggested1003 H. B. P. 2. by you will be utilized. I am in accord with you as to the necessity of the people stoutly contending for their rights, and it is the duty of men in responsible positions at any hazard to themselves to accept the consequences of that contention. I thank you very much for your words of congratulation and commendation, all of which I prefer to interpret as a tribute to the movement as is understood and carried on by the American Federation of Labor. Wishing you the Compliments of the Season, and with best wishes for a prosperous new year, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*1004*] X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mr. John A. McDonald, Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company, 643 Bennington Street, E. Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 17th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I have no alternative other than to follow whatever course may be outlined by the Convention of the Federation and by the Executive Council as being in the best interests of the Federation, of its affiliated organizations, and of the movement in general. This applies not only to the decision reached as regards the issuance of charters to insurance agents but as regards any matter upon which the Conventions of the Federation and the Executive Council have rendered decisions. Of course, should you and your colleagues desire again to make formal application for charter for a union of insurance agents, the matter will be duly placed before my colleagues of the Executive Council for their consideration. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*1005*] X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mr. E.M. Rozelle, 855 Main Street, Hartford, Conn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that we are pushing as rapidly as possible the work on the pamphlet on Industrial Education which the Toronto Convention of the Federation ordered should be issued. The report which the Committee submitted to the Convention will be embodied in that pamphlet, and I regret, that I am unable to comply at this time with your request for half a dozen copies. However, if you will write me again in the course of the next few weeks, I hope to be able to send you the complete pamphlet. I note what you say in regard to Organizer Stuart Reid, and we shall endeavor to have him remain in Hartford as long as we possibly can. I am glad to know that his work is bringing good results in the movement in Hartford. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 1003 X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mr. Wm, D. Huber, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Friend: I want to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 18th instant, together with the memorandum book, both of which are greatly appreciated. Reciprocating your good wishes for a Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 1007 X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mr. J. J. Reid, Box 42, Springfield, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find duplicate copy of letter which I have just written to Mr. Theo. E. Strauss, Secretary of Local #135, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, of La Grosse, Wisconsin, which is self-explanatory. It is submitted to you for your information and such reply as you may desire to make. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*1008*] X Dec. 22, 1909. Sir: At at conference of representative labor men held at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, December 13th and 14th, among other things adopted was the following: "In view of the great wrongs perpetrated by the United States Steel Corporation, not only against the workers, but the public generally, we recommend that a committee be appointed by this conference to wait upon the President of the United States, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and such members of either House of Congress as may be deemed advisable for the purpose of laying before them the grievances from which labor suffers at the hands of this Corporation. And that the Committee herein provided demand a thorough investigation as to the legality of the actions and the existence under the law of the United States Steel Corporation." In compliance with that declaration the following committee was appointed: James O'Connell, Chas. E. Lawyer, G. W. Perkins, J. D. Pierce, P. J. McArdle, J. W. Hays, T. L. Lewis, The committee has asked me to inquire from you whether it would be agreeable and convenient for you to meet them at the White House, some time during Thursday, January sixth, 1910, for the purpose of presenting to you the subject matter referred to. Will you kindly advise me at your early convenience whether I may inform[*1008*] X Dec. 22, 1909. Sir: At a conference of representative labor men held at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, December 13th and 14th, among other things adopted was the following: "In view of the great wrongs perpetrated by the United States Steel Corporation, not only against the workers, but the public generally, we recommend that a committee be appointed by this conference to wait upon the President of the United States, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and such members of either House of Congress as may be deemed advisable for the purpose of laying before them the grievances from which labor suffers at the hands of this Corporation. And that the Committee herein provided demand a thorough investigation as to the legality of the actions and the existence under the law of the United States Steel Corporation." In compliance with that declaration the following committee was appointed: James O'Connell, Chas. E. Lawyer, C. W. .Perkinds, J. D. Pierce, P. J. McArdle, J. W. Hays, T. L. Lewis, The committee has asked me to inquire from you whether it would be agreeable and convenient for you to meet them at the White House, some time during Thursday, January sixth, 1910, for the purpose of presenting to you the subject matter referred to. Will you kindly advise me at your early convenience whether I may inform 1009 --2-- the members of the committees as to your wishes in the matter? Samuel Gompers, as Chairman of the Conference, was made a member of the committee above referred to. I have the honor to remain, Yours very respectfully, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Hon. William H. Taft, President of the United States, Washington, D.C.[*1010*] M December 22, 1909. Mr. E. Clarence Jones, President, American Embassy Association, 505 Fifth Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Replying further to your favor of December 5, I beg to assure you that I am fully in accord with the purposes of the American Embassy Association. You suggest a resolution being passed by the American Federation of Labor endorsing the Association. Your attention is called to the fact that the Federation has just closed its last annual convention in Toronto, Canada, last month, and will not meet again until November 1910. I shall be glad to hear from you and be of any assistance within my power in advancing the purposes for which your Association was formed. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*1011*] X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mrs. Rachel Foster Avery, Acting Chairman, National-American Woman Suffrage Association, Committee on Petition to Congress, 1823 H Street, N.W., City. Dear Madam: I have just been able to reach your favor of December fifth, which reached my office during my absence on official business and was acknowledged upon receipt. I beg to assure you that I will be glad to do anything within my power to be helpful, and therefore I enclose to you herein a brief statement to all organized labor which you are at liberty to have printed and sent out as you may deem advisable. Wishing you the compliments of the season, I am, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*Don't forget the Union Label*][*1012*] HEADQUARTERS AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, 801-809 G St., N. W., Washington, D. C. Dec. 22, 1909. TO ALL ORGANIZED LABOR: The petitions circulated by the National-American Woman Suffrage Association for signature and then presentation to the Congress of the United States, have been widely distributed among trade unionists and those friendly to equal suffrage. However, many of the petitions after being signed, have not been thus far forwarded to the Association. The American labor movement stands committed for equality of opportunity, for equal pay for equal work, whether performed by men or women. It also stands for equal rights before the law and that implies equal suffrage in the selection of those who shall administer and execute the law. The purpose of my writing is to urge not only the general signing of the petitions, but after they are signed that they be sent to Mrs. Rachel Foster Avery, 1823 H Street, N. W., Washington, D. C. Trusting that all will array in this effort to secure justice, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. [*Don't forget the Union Label.*][*1013*] X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mr. Frank J. McNulty, President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find duplicate copy of letter which I have just written to Mr. Theo. E. Strauss, Secretary of Local #135, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, which is self-explanatory. It is submitted to you for your information and such reply as you may desire to make. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.1014 X. Dec. 22, 1909 Mr. Daniel Kiefer, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 11th instant is received and contents noted, and I was sorry that I did not see you when in Cincinnati, but I hope to yet have the opportunity of meeting you either here or in that city. I want to thank you for the copy of your letter to the Cincinnati Star upon the subject of the contempt cases. As to the other matter of the proposed bread ordinance, I know too little about the details to be able to discuss it. I am trying now to get some information upon the subject and hope to be successful, when I may be in a position to write you further. In the meantime, wishing you the compliments of the season, I am, Very sincerely yours, Sam. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Let me hear from you at your convenience. [*1015*] X. Dec. 22, 1909. Mr. W. L. Carter, President, Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, Peoria, Illinois, Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of December 20th, I beg to say that if you can let me have the data requested in my circular letter in your annual report which will be prepared in the month of January, 1910, it will be in ample time for my purposes. Wishing you the compliments of the season, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.1016 Z Dec. 22, 1909. NO. 95. Executive Council, American Federation of Labor. Colleagues: The proposition contained in document #89, submitted to the Executive Council for a vote, in reference to the date of holding a meeting of the Executive Council, has been decided in favor of January 10th, 1910. In accordance with the above decision, I beg to advise you that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor will hold a meeting at headquarters, 801-809 G St., N.W., Washington, D.C., beginning at 10 o'clock Monday morning, January 10th, 1910. In addition to the many important matters which will come up before the Executive Council for consideration and action, the matter of arranging routes and groups for the organizing, lecturing tour of the Executive Council and the holding of a meeting on the Pacific Coast will be considered and acted upon and in this, of course, each member of the Executive Council will be personally interested. It is urged that all members make arrangements to attend the Executive Council meeting from its beginning to closing session. 1017 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL----2---- Wishing you all the compliments of the season, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.