Samuel Gompers Letterbooks Volume 167 Mar. 25, 1911 - Apr. 20, 1911 AC 13.745Alpine, Jno. R. 95, 476, 489, 642, 707, 828, 834 Adams, Thos. H. 211 Appleton, N. A. 216, 940 Allen, C. B. 423 Atkinson, Thomas 463 Ashton, N. A. 505 Anderson, J. F. 661 Albrecht, J. M. 771 Ambach, Frank 749 Adams, Chas. E. 863 Anderson, Lee 918 Allen, John L. M. 974 Barth, L.A. 6 198-605-946 Belmont, August 49 Babcock, B.L. 99 Beveridge, Albert J. 183-185 Berres, H.J. 193 [Beazely] Beazley, Rosalind 242 Bennett, A. N. 259 Bell, G. D. 409 Baker, M. S. 445 Barton, F. J. 491 Beck, J. D. 496 Bean, Frank S. 591 Benson, Allen L. 650-758-875 Back, John K. 703 - 726 - 802 Bedford, J. F. 709 Bagg, S. F. 725 Becker, G. H. 884 Bechtold, Geo. 885 - 1020 Barrett, Chas. S. 939 Bater, E. A. 985Butterworth, Frank 52 Bowden, W. 117 Bray, John E. 121 Burkett, L. U. 261 Bradsher, Harry E. 266 Bourne, [John] Jonathan, Jr. 295 Boydston, S. M. 299-737 Brunk, E. E. 311 Browne, L. D. 369 Bohm, Ernest 517-815-874 Brown, Fred P. 596 Brown, Edwin A. 616-736 Bogue, A. E. 724 Brown, E. Blue, Wm. 744 Buhr, Victor 808 Butler, J. 861 Bron, J. 938 Blatch, Harriet Stanton 1006 Brasel, E. K. 1009 Burrows, John M. 1030Carpenter, D. H. 307 Cornerou, C. R. 382 Cavaness, Wilfrid 431 Carraher, Michael 531 Chandler, W. W. 767 Christeson, Peter U. 847 Case, Chas. R. 888 Campbell, J. B. 954 Carter, W. S. 958 Carraher, Michael 1003 Call, Mae Mc Kinstry 1013Crowley, Chas. B. 30 Correa, Victoria 139 Conlon, P. J. 232-607 Culp, Samuel Guy 26[4]5 Cowen, J. P. 313 Crandall, Reed 315 Cobley, J T. 332 Cochren, A. M. 348 Coates, Wm. J. 376-794 Collins, Peter W. 465-905-1117 Cornerford, Matt [4] 67-818 Crouch, Frank Monroe 604 Clark, John R. 626 100 Coleson, G. R. 751 Cullop, Wm [William]. A. (Hon.) 820 Clark, J. W. 937 Cotterill, Frank W 1007Duncan, Jas. 22 - 234 - 468 - 585 - 697 - 782 901 - D'Alesandro, D. 41 - 388 - 469 - 520 - 526 - 533 - 572 1002 Douglass, M. H. 134 Dyche, J. A. 145 - 186 - Dunn, A. M. 168 - Duffy, Frank 236 - 237 - 356 - 488 - 662 - 670 1014 - 1033 Dauenhaner, R. J. 280 Darter, Grant 433 Dilno, Louis 456 Drexel, John 530 Dunne, John R. 551 Duhane, Jos. 568 Daly, Will 620 De Jong, Thys 720 Duke, S. B. 778 Davis, E. J. 790 Dixon, Lincoln (Hon.) 811 Didion & Co., L. 827 Davies, W. H. 829 Draper, P. M. 860 Davis, Albert 890 Dolan, C. T. 892 Dolson, Wm. 929 Dunn, Geo. D. 936 Darley, W. R. 965 Duffy, J. P. 988 Drexel, John 1004 DExecutive Council 20-65-122-170-222-379-528 576-635-679-699 Eichelberger H. L. 33-96-115-128-482-508-536 588-592-777 Eichhorn, Theodore 109-671 Eastman, R. E 156 Easley, R. M 206-270-521-522-640 Emmerton , E. J. 375 Ed[g]dy Charles B. 394-669 Edgell, Geo. B. 407 Estabrook, T. J. 415 Eschenbrenner, Josephina J. 494 Evans, Chas. L. 716 Enslen, W. F. 850 Egan, J. P. 945 EF Frider, C. M. 1 1002 Frayne, Hugh 2 - 10 - 18 - 50 - 56 - 112 - 143 - 189 - 191 - 534 631 - 690 - 742 - 804 - 842 - 997 - 999 Freeze, Louis 4 Flynn, Thos. H. 73 - 162 - 490 - 825 Feinauer, William 119 - 621 Farrand, Livingston 241 Fichner, Robert 277 Fisher, A. C. 323 Floyd, F. N. 359 Fahey, Chas. T. 393 [Fitzpart] Fitzpatrick, J. J. 451 - 675 - 798 - 852 - 872 - 982 1034 Ford, Cornelius 481 Fischer, Otto E. 499 Fifield, Clarence O. 538 Fehlinger, Hans 546 Fuhan, Frank 602 Foster, Earl 680 Flour & Cereal Mill Employes' Locals 706 Frey, John P. 787 Frazier, Wm. H. 927 [Friruseth?], Andrew 966-995 Flynn, J. J. 979Gardner, Frederic W. 49-511-648-956 Grant, Geo. A. 87 Generonsa, J. C. 90 Golden, John 107 Greenawalt E. E. 160 Gunter, James A. 321 Gladieux, A. 421 Greer, R. S. 515-889-975 Gooch, Jas. Y. 561 Gallagher, Andrew J. 719 Guntner, Geo M. 786 Guetafein, Geo. M. 853 Gann, Robt. E. 868 Garetson , A. B. 895 X-991 Gomperz, Rosa 906 [*Garretson, A. B. 911 X*] Harvey, Jas. W. 5 Harris, Daniel 39-570-830 Hayes, D. A. 57-273 Hayes, J. W. 108 Hannahan, Jos. J. 118 Hewett, Frank B. 149 Hatch, P. 201 Hadley, Herbert S. 202 Hedrick, Geo F. 239 Hatch, James H. 256-689-734 Herman, Will 281-657-693 Heath, O. M. 303 Hargroves, H. V. 319 Hall, George 336 Helzel, H. R. 342 Hammon, Paul G. 386 Hammers, Burt 437-970 Hathway, G. A. 439 Hean, Robert R. 507 Hartley, H. H. 565 Hawthorne, Jas. 587-676-1000 Hawkins, W. W. 634 Hohlt, Geo. B. 749 Healy, Anthony A. 836 Hesherger, E. R. 848 Hatch, Jas. H. 911 Hean, Robt. R. 943 Hawley, A. W. 959Hart Lee M. 986Huddell, A. M. 55-896 Hudnall, W. G. 84 Hoefgen, Wm. L. 85 Hubschmitt, Frank 102 [*300*] Hodges, R. E. 167 Hughes, C. L. 278 Huber, Wm. H. 294 Hostetter, S. A. 317 Howell, H. L. 383-395 Hill, Thomas A. 387 Hickey, L. 429 Hogan, Stephen C. 471 Hurley, J. 477 Huddleston, Leo. M. 478 Howe, Frank G. 542 Howley, Geo. B. 544 Hoope, Henry W. Jr. 609-856 Hilfers, Henry F. 682 Huber, Fred 713 Hutton, Jas. 745-971 Hutchen, M. C. 773 Himmel, Jas. A. 839 Honk, W. F. 883 Hibbert, Albert 950 Hutton, Quince 971I J Iglesias, Santiago 86-131-135-503 Insley, F. E. 215 Irvin, F. A. 357 Ide BrOs. Co. 924 [Johnson , R. S] (Killed) [240] Jones, Jerome 246 - 275 - 384 Jenkins, H. M. 371 Johnson, Marshall 399 Joel, H. W. 739 Jones, Richard Lloyd 809Keefe, Daniel J. 11-47-62 [Ki] Kinsella, J. T. 148 Kelsey Carl 161- Kline J. W. [187] 128-257-656-730-731 Kitzmiller, C. H. 231-597-899 Kimball, C. R. 354 Kerle, W. H. 411 King, R. 417 King, Thos. 443 Kreyling, David 498-886-1023 Kellington, A. E. 599-704 Koester, Walter 627 Kellogg, Paul U. 685 Kramer, Will F. 916 Kelly. S. C. 1011Lennon, John B. 28-46-291-514-870 Lubuscher, A. L. 77 Lubin, David 78-380 Lynch, Jas. M. 100-630 Lewis, David J. (Hon.) 106 Lane, W. D. 686 Long, Job Jr. 219 Lows, S. H. 223 Le Hew, C. G. 301 Lawrence, L. L. 365 Lane, Thomas 200-413 Lount, Hyacinth 450 Le Soudier, H. 458 Losch, Adolf v. 460 Lasatu, J. M. D. 677 Legien, Carl 864 Ladson, C. J. 955 Leahy, D. H. 973 Labadie, J. 1010 Lazard, Mat. 1012 LMA Mahon, W. [?]. 42-64-290-610 Mance, J. T. 60 Macey, R. H. & Co. 142 Muscribach, J. Al. 151-589-785 Meiler J. 153-[483] Mahan, T. L. 217 [*400*] Meiler John G. 228-483-612-1015 Mavell, WIlliam P. 255 Maloney, J. O. 340 Mahar, Dennis 378 Maiden, Jos. 584-841 Melish, T. H. (Rev.) 603 Melton, Victor H. 708 Marell, Wm. P. 732 Mason, L. W. 701 Merrill, J. C. 714 Mahan, T. L. 1019Morrison, John 13-391-571-740-928 Mountford, Harry 16-63-243-449 Mitchell, John 26-51-58-74-204 Moyer, Chas. H. 34 Miller, Gus 140 Morris G. O. 181 Miller Owen 203-960 Morehouse, S. W. 214 Myers, Fred 305 Moylan, R. S. 373 Mills, Ernest 385 Monaghan, M. L. 540-969 Morris, E. C. 668-803 Morton, Farley 688 Mulholland, Frank L. 703-799-984 Moore, H. L. 909McCarthy, Frank H. 75-150 McDonald, Steve 104 McGraw, James 120-172 McArdle, P. J. 283-696 McNulty, Frank J. 297-586-903 McNott, Alena Miss 367 MacMillan, J. C. 435 McNamara, Thos. 461 McSorely, Wm J. 470 McHugh, Jas. F. 479 McKinley, H. L. 678 McMahon, B. J. 718 McDonald, J. H. 747 McIntosh, J. M. 763 McAndrew, A. 819 McLaughlin, F. J. 821 McKinney, Delbert C. 917 McLennan, John 923 McFadden, A. L. 925 McArthur, Walter 989 McKinstry, Mae Call 1013Nichols, Otto 79-326 Nolta Geo. A. 197 Nockles, E. N. 252-575-645 Nielsen, Louis 447 Noffke, Wm. 567-851 Near, J. M. 580 Nord, Wm. A. 624 Neilsen, Dagmar J. 887 Newman, Wm. A. 944 O’Brien, Wm. H. 54-1016 O’Connor, T. V. 111-824-891-967 Olson, G. H. 169 Olsen Sue Hamilton 188 Oedarner, C. H. 401 O’Connell, James 459-472-672-717 O’Sullivan, M. 473 O’Brien, P. J. 622 Overly, Eugene A. 843Perkins, Edgar A. 72 Puham, H. B. 76-729 Pierce, J. D. 97 Prescott, W. B. 103 Philadelphia Ledger, [?gr.] 116 Page, M. H. 147 Peebles, W. L. 158 Pace Elma 194 Paulsen, Paul J. 279 Piche, Albert C. 352 Patter, C. L. 361 Persinger, H. L. 397-524 Podpac, Franz 606 Pace, Elena M. 617 Partington, John 628 Parker, Alton B. 703-832 Pierce, C. D. 723 Pariseau, Edw. G. 710-839 Prisett, J. C. 792 Pratt, C. O. 100 Paris, D. E. 835 Perkins, G. W. 845 Plante, Louis 857 Preston, Geo. 917 Pfeiffer, John J. 921 Pace, E. R. 981 Robinson, Herman 37 Roehri, Al. 130-579 Ryan M. Q. 196-292-541-654-721-1004 Randell, Chaice B. 213 Richie, J. M. 244 Reynolds, Jas. A. 271 Reid, J. J. 296 Ross, James A. 324 Runion, Clyde, 344 Rudnall, W. G. 389 Ribey, A. T. 419 Ryan, F. M. 462 Reynolds, Jas. P. 480 Romanoli, Louis T. 493 Rowe, H. S. 519 Richsteiner, C. J. 527 Reid, Stuart 583 Rodrick, Geo. F. 641 Ridgway, Hugh E. 658 Ruhler, Chas. 715 Rodgers, S. L. 769 Riddle, M. L. 783 Ralston, Siddons & Richardson 810 Ransille, L. 813 Reece, Thom. 844 Rynerson, G. M. 845 Robinson, Thos. 846 Reeves, R. S. 893 Sherman, John Weaver 43-574 Sanchez, Maria 138 Seals, Charles D. 155 Sassenbach M. 208 Samuel, Richard 330 Shirley, J. N. 425 Sample, S. T. 441 Sculley, T. A. 475 Scheen, Victor 497 Short, W. H. 509-877 Saladin, Frank 559 Shackels, J. H. 663 Shearod, B. L. 781 Senthall, R. F. 855 Sheraton, Chas. H. 862 Shrodring, H. C. 942 Scholey, M. J. 957 Shannessy, J. C. 962Spencer, Wm. J. 12 - 98 487 - 613 - 952 Stine, R. O. 88 Sullivan J. W. 165 Sheraton, Chas. H. 166 - Sparks Harvey 199 Skelly, H. A. 267 Sweeney, Michael 284 Skemp, J. C. 293 - 474 -655 - 722 - 733 Sullivan, Jere L. 325 - 826 Silger, Edwin A. 363 600 Strachan, Grace C. 506 Sweeney, Thomas 513 Suitor, Fred W. 531 - 1003 Sivitzer, J. J. 614 Sigleton, W. H. 618 Swinney, S. H. 646 Stoper, M. R. 664 Sulzer, Wm. (Hon.) 687 Stien, Henry 757 Sullivan, Chas. A. 761 Smith, Paul J. 775 Stratton, S. A. 867 Swift, W. H. 871 Smith, Wm. 941 Spelman, F. C. 977 Smith, Chas. B. 980 SITobin, Daniel J. 61 - 557 - 673 - 684 - 795 Tracy, Thos. F. 81 - 224 - 779 - 972 Tazelaar, Jacob 218 Templeton, J. E. 254 - 728 To Whom it may concern 269 Tubbs, M. V. 346 Tobin, John F. 391 Tomkins, D. R. 405 Thompson, P. 427 Thompson, C. H. 578 - 976 Tustison, N. R. 710 Taylor, John M. 755 Taylor, Zula 788 Triggs, F. E. 840 Taylor, Robt. L. (Hon.) 902 Tutxel, Frank 913 Taber, W. A. 1027 TUllner, Henry 464 Valentine, Jos. F. 91- 392 - 859 U VWhitehead, John 127 Walsh, John M. 248 - 558 Walker, B. S. 334 Whiting, Attis T. 350 Walker, R. W. 403 Western Union Telegraph 502 Wagner, Chas. 564 - 735 Wasser, V. E. 629 Watson, Charles E. 632 Watson, Brice 633 Weston, Geo. F. 869 Webster, Marion 887 Waldie, D. E. 922 White, Pircy 926 Wessel, H. B. 1025 WAWyatt, Cal. 23 - 537 - 582 Woodman, C. W. 24 - 263 - 894 Wilkinson, S. W. 35 Williamson, Pratt 309 Wolfenberg, E. R. 338 Wickersham, Geo. W. (Hon.) 563 - 854 Woodman, J. W. 753 Wright, R. C. 765 Wyer, Malcolm G. 817 Wilkinson, C. 897 Woodmanse, R. E. 935 WIYoung, C. O. 212 Young, Wm 466 Yates, Chas. F. 759 - Yocker, W. F. 793 Yates, Chas. A. 801 Yonker, H. S. 930 Zwally, G. C. 623 YZ [*686*]1 COPIED. MAR 25 1911 DAY LETTERGRAM Washington, D.C.March 25,1911 Mr. C. M. Feider Labor Temple Omaha Nebraska Appreciate invitation to address mass meeting March thirty-first. Have important engagements in the south for that date. Regret inability to be present. Best wishes for success. Samuel Gompers President, A.F. of L (Charge to A.F. of L.)[*2*] M March 24, 1911. COPIED. MAR 25 1911 Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to advise that the Executive Council has approved the application of Bed Spring Makers Union No. 12103 for lookout benefits, for five weeks, and I enclose to you herein strike report blanks, which kind ly have filled in and returned to this office. In connection with this matter I beg to call your attention to the following statement which our books show is the membership paid on during the last twelve months by Local No. 12103: March 1910, 100 members April ", 100 " May ", 30 " June ", 30 " July ", 30 " August ", 35 " Sept. ", 35 " Oct. ", 40 " Nov. ", 40 " Dec. ", 40 " Jan. 1911 45 " Feb. " 45 " Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.3 H. P. P.S. Of course you will have in mind that for the first two weeks of the lockout, under the constitution of the A. F. of L., the men will not be entiled to benefits from the defense fund.[*4*] z March 25, 1911. COPIED. MAR 25, 1911 Mr. Louis Feeze, Secretary, Local No. 72 American Brotherhood of Cement Workers, P. O. Box 1060, Helena, Mont. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant has been duly received, regarding a communication received by your organization from the Secretary of Bricklayers Union No. 6, in which he advises: "This union stands with the Stonemasons' Union in regard to not laying brick or stone on any concrete foundation, that takes the place of brick or stone, unless the mixing and placing of same is superintended by a member of #4 or #6 union." In reply I beg to say that this is a matter which you should take up with the executive officers of your International Association. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.5 March 24, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911*] M Mr. James M. Harvey, Secretary, Machinist Helpers Union No. 13108, 1831 E. S. Grand Ave., Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date received enclosing copy of constitution and by-laws, and beg to say that same are hereby approved. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*6*] M March 25, 1911. COPIED MAR 25 1911 Mr. L. A. Barth, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Room 4, Talbott Block, Indianapolis. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer Edgar A. Perkins has just written to me advising me of the question which came up before the meeting of your Central Labor Union on March 13, as to the eligibility of a member of a trade union, who is also a member of the Woman's Union Label League representing the latter organization as a delegate to your Central Body. For your information I enclose to you herein copy of Org. Perkin's letter, and in conformity with the request made therein I am now writing you. The question raised in his letter is as follows: "Can an active member of a trade union thus represent the Label League? Has the League any different status in this particular than a federal labor union ? Is it not a fact that representation at any stage of the League in any federated body is purely honorary?" In reply let me say that the locals of the Woman's Trade Union Label League can only be represented in affiliated central bodies and state federations of labor by fraternal delegates, that is delegates not being entitled under the law to a vote upon any matter under discussion. This law applies equally to the Conventions "Can an active member of a trade union thus represent the Label League? Has the League any different status in this particular than a federal labor union? Is it not a fact that representation at any stage of the League in any federated body is purely honorary?" In reply let me say that the locals of the Woman's Trade Union Label League can only be represented in affiliated central bodies and state federations of labor by fraternal delegates, that is delegation not being entitled under the law to a vote upon any matter under discussion. This law applies equally to the Conventions[*7*] L. A. B. 2. of the American Federation of Labor. The fraternal delegates from the ministerial associations, from the International Woman's Trade Union Label League, from the farmers' organizations, etc., etc., while accorded every courtesy and shown every consideration in the annual conventions of the A. F. of L. yet are not allowed the privilege of voting upon matters before the house. This question of the delegates from the label leagues being allowed to vote in the central labor union meetings has come up again and again before the central bodies, to all of which I have replied as above. The privilege of a voice in the affairs of central body or in the conventions of the American Federation of Labor by delegates from the National Women's Trade Union Leagues, Women's International Trade Union Label Leagues, Federal Council of the Churches in Christ, American Federation of Catholic Societies, Wage Earners' Suffrage League, American Society of Equity, has its influence and ir should rightly have its influence, but the question of finally voting upon matters affecting the vital interests of the workmen, members of the unions, should be left with the delegates from those unions interested or with the membership themselves. After all, the fraternal delegates from these organizations are intended to give sympathetic advice and support to the organized labor movement. Therefore, such delegates should have a voice but not a vote nor are they eligible to be elected to any office of the central body, or as a delegate from the central body to the conventions of the State Federations or the conventions of the American Federation of Labor. Indeed, the Constitution of the A. F. of L. prohibits even federll labor unions from electing a member of a local[*8*] L. A. S. 3. that body who may at the same time be a member of a local trade union from being a delegate to a central body, state federation, or conventions of the A. F. of L., and quite recently the Constitution of the A. F. of L. was amended so as to exclude members of a local trade union from being members of a federal labor union. I quote these facts simply to show you the consistent course pursued by the trade union movement as represented by the American Federation of Labor, that in the determination of the vital interests affecting the working people, members of the trade unions must themselves decide by their vote. Then again under the law and practice of the American Federation of Labor no delegate to the central body should be allowed to represent any local union other than the union of his own trade. If a delegate to the central body is filling the office of President, Secretary or holding any other official position in the central body and his term of delegate expires before his term as president or secretary is out, unless the constitution of the central body explicitly provides otherwise, there is no reason why he should not complete his term as President or secretary, and be eligible to re-election to such position, but I again repeat that no delegate would be allowed to represent in a central body other than the local of his own trade. I ask that this letter be read at the next regular meeting of your central body. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President A. F. of L.9 COPY Indianapolis, March 22, 1910. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Dear Sir: At the meeting of the Central Labor Union of this city, held on the night of March 13, the question arose as to the eligibility of a member of a trade union, who was also a member of the Woman's Union Label League, representing the latter organization as a delegate to the Central Labor Union. The circumstances giving rise to this phase of the discussion is as follows: The President of the Central Labor Union, E. W. McGinnis, up to the first of the year was a delegate from the Typographical Union No..1 Under the law of the Central Labor Union the seats of all delegates expire on the last day of the year. Mr. McGinnis was President of the Central Labor Union when his term expired as delegate from the Typographical Union,, but his term as President of the Central Labor Union did not expire for some six weeks later. Mr. McGinnis was not returned as a delegate from the Typographical Union No. 1. That he was not returned as a delegate was known to Mr. McGinnis during the month of December. According to information Mr. McGinnis joined the Woman's Union Label League in December and was elected as delegate to the Central Labor Union for the term beginning with the first of the year. At the semi-annual election held in February Mr. McGinnis was re-elected President. The question is: Can an active member of a trade union thus represent the Label League? Has the League any different status in this particular than a federal labor union? Is it not a fact that representation at any stage of the League in any federated body is purely honorary?[*10*] -2- In order that this question may be definitely settled I would advise that you write the Secretary of the Central Labor Union, L. A. Barth, 3009 North Capitol Avenue. Fraternally yours, Edgar A. Perkins, Organizer. COPIED. MAR 23 1911[*11*] LF March 24,1911 [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911*] Mr. Daniel J. Keefe, Commissioner General of Immigration, Immigration Department, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: I regret to learn that it is not contemplated that the report which you made of your observations in the Hawaiian Islands will be printed. I am sure that it must be interesting, for the correspondence which reaches me from various sources in Hawaii discloses many peculiar conditions and situations which are exceedingly interesting and which would prove so to our people in the United States. However, if the report is not to be printed, I should esteem it a very great courtesy if you could let me have either to copy or for reading for my own information, a typewritten copy of the report if you have one to spare. Thanking you in advance for any courtesy which you may be able to show me in this matter, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*12*] LF March 24, 1911 [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911*] Mr. Wm. J. Spencer, Secretary Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., Ouray Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother, Referring to the letter which I wrote President Short under date of March 11, in which I suggested that the Building Trades Department should met at the same time and place when the Executive Council will be in session. This letter I addressed to President Short during the meeting of his Executive Board in Chicago and I would be obliged if you would advise me what action was taken upon my recommendation. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.13 LF March 24, 1911 [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911*] Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Ave., New York,N.Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22nd instant is received and contents noted. I beg to say that Attorney Jackson H. Ralston of this city was shown a copy of Bill 804, Int. 734 in the New York Assembly introduced by Mr. Foley, February 27, 1911. He states that on Page 3 of the bill where it says: "Nor shall it prohibit a corporation or voluntary association from employing an attorney or attorneys in and about its own immediate affairs or in any litigation to which it is or may be a party" is the only clause that might interfere with a voluntary association acting for some one that was not a member of the organization, but he questions whether any argument could be made on that particular clause of the bill if taken in its entirety. The elimination of part of line 13, on page 3, also 14 and 15, and 16 except the word "nor", would, in his opinion, prevent the possibility of that question being raised. He further said that the bill was intended to prevent corporations being entitled to practice law or furnish legal service or advice. I take it that it is directed particularly against corporations formed for the purpose of furnishing legal counsel to whoever may desire to have it.14 Mr. John Morrison--2 It seems to me therefore that the bill is a good one. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.15 LF March 25, 1911 [*COPIED. MAR 23 1911*] Mr. Hugh Frayne,Organizer American Federation of Labor 25 Third Ave., New York,N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant is received and contents noted. In regard to the Italian Colonial Congress to be held in Philadelphia, March 27th, I beg to say that I have already been in correspondence with Organizer Eichelberger and with Organizer Romagnoli of the Tailors' Union, the latter of whom will officially represent the American Federation of Labor at the Congress. Mr. Eichelberger also will be there. I thank you also for writing me in regard to it. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.16 X. March 24, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911*] Mr. Harry Mountford, Secretary, White Rats Actors' Union of America, 1553 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 23d. to hand and contents noted. I thank you for sending me a copy of the letter you sent to the Executive Committee of the New York C. F. U. In connection with this, let me say that I have just written to Mr. Herman Robinson, Commissioner of Licences of New York, and expressed the view that the Actors would necessarily be in the best position to determine as to whether a proposed law is beneficial to them or otherwise. I asked him to withdraw his support from the Brennan Bill pending before the legislature, bearing upon the rights and interests of the Actors. In my letter to Commissioner Robinson I have also recounted the conference I had with him and also with yourself, and the expression of my view that a friendly conference should be held, so that points of agreement might be reached rather than to diverge and conflict. I informed him of your willingness to have such a conferende, at which I should participate, and I now undertake to say that upon the occasion of my next visit to New York I shall write both you and Mr. Robinson requesting a conference at which I can participate for the purpose of arriving at some point of agreement, friendliness and co-operation.17 Mr. Harry Mountford -2- With best wishes, and hoping for results in the interests of the theatrical performers and success of the White Rats Actors' Union of America, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.18 March 24, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911.*] X. Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: We have had a Button Workers Union in Muscatine, Iowa, for a considerable time. It was composed exclusively of the men. Some few months ago it was decided to endeavor to organize the women in the union. The employers then locked all the workers out! They have been in that position for the past five weeks. At the request of the union I authorized Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer of the American Federation of Labor, to go to Muscatine and to aid in the effort for adjustment, but thus far without avail. He informs me that the spirit of the workers is good and they will hold out for a very long time in the hope of that victory will come to them. I am very anxious that they shall be secured in the right to organize, both men and women. I am enclosing you herein a newspaper clipping showing the propositions for the adjustment of the conflict which Mr. Lennon and the officers of the committee submitted. However, this has not been accepted. Mr. Lennon writes me informing me that Mr. Leo H. Hirsch, 129 Worth Street, New York, is one of the independent button manufacturers of Muscatine, who recently has closed down his establishment, evidently joining hands with the button manufacturers who are in an Association. 19 Mr. Hugh Frayne -2- I would suggest that you endeavor to have an interview with Mr. Hirsch and see whether he cannot be persuaded to accord to the Button Workers the right to organize. Surely no one will dispute that the working people should be organized for their mutual protection and advancement. If it were possible for me to be in New York to meet Mr. Hirsch, I should be glad to do so. If you care to ask some other representative man to accompany you on a visit to Mr. Hirsch, you may do so. Wishing you success, and hoping to hear from you soon and often, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. COPIED20 March 24, 1911. [*COPIED MAR 23 1911*] NO. 29. X. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: Resolution #37 of the St. Louis Convention on pages 168 and 285 of the official printed proceedings was referred to the Executive Council with instructions to determine the question as to who shall have jurisdiction over single wrapping mail matter, that is, the International Typographical Union or the Brotherhood of Book Binders. At the Executive Council meeting held in this office January 16-27, the matter of this controversy relating to the jurisdiction over single wrapping was referred to the undersigned for the purpose of holding a conference with President Lynch of the International Typographical Union, and President Glockling of the Brotherhood of Bookbinders, for the purpose of bringing about an adjustment. On last Tuesday I had a conference with these gentlemen in New York, but it was not possible to bring about any adjustments. Both insist that inasmuch as they were unable to come to an agreement, that the matter shall be determined by the Executive Council, in accordance with the instructions of the St. Louis Convention. It seems that the matter cannot very well be determined by the Executive Council by correspondence, and I therefore suggest that the subject matter be deferred for consideration and action until21 Executive Council -2- the next Executive Council meeting. Please return your vote upon this suggestion at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.22 March 25, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911*] X. Mr. James Duncan, Granite Cutters' International Association, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: The Secretary of the Central Labor Union of Quincy, writes that he has been instructed to request that Organizer Frank McCarthy be sent to Quincy, as it is felt there that he is more familar with conditions in that locality than anyone else. I have not yet made any reply to Secretary Nelson's letter, and would be glad to have your advice in the premises. Organizer McCarthy, as you know, is not upon the regular salaried li t of the A. F. of L., and it is about all we can do to meet the salary and expenses of the men already at work. Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 23 March 24, 1911. COPIED. MAR 25 1911 X. Mr. Cal Wyatt, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, General Delivery, Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 23d. instant received, in which you make report of your visit to Urichsville, Ohio, in connection with Clay Miners' Union #9985. I thank you for your prompt attention to the matter, the good work you have performed, and the comprehensive report you made in regard thereto. I am gratified to know that the entire matter is now adjusted. I shall await report from Local #9985 as to the result of the meeting to be held on Sunday. March 26th. Please do not fail to return me all of the correspondence in this case. I presume you overlooked it when you wrote. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.24 March 25, 1911 COPIED. MAR 25 1911 LF Mr. C. W. Woodman, Union Banner, Ft. Worth Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Acknowledgement of the receipt of your two favors which reached here during my absence has already been made. I have read them with a great deal of interest. Needless to say that I am very much pleased with the action taken by the Farmer's Organization in repudiating the bill introduced to the Texas State Legislature for the establishment of a big cotton factory to be operated by convicts. If the bill had been enacted and such a factory established, it would have resulted not only in injury to the Farmers, to the labor movement, but to our citizenship in general. But it is needless for me to go into a discussion of the convict labor question in this letter, for you know so well my views upon this subject and I have so fully and freely expressed them editorially in my reports to the conventions of the American Federation of Labor and upon the public platform. I read your editorial which you enclosed, with the greatest interest. I congratulate you upon it. I would suggest that you read carefully the article in the March issue if the American Federationist by G. W. Perkins in which the entire subject matter of initiative and referendum is25 Mr. C. W. Woodman--2 discussed at length, I note that the trips that you desire to make during the summer are to Galveston, Houston, San Antonio, Denison and Thurber. I think matters can be arranged so that you can devote two or three days during the summer to each of these points. Now as to the President of the Brick Makers plan at Thurber, Mr. Edgar L. Marsden, who lives in New York City. I am acquainted with the gentleman. I do not know when I will be in New York again, and therefore as Mr. John Mitchell is well acquainted with him I am writing to request him to endeavor to have an interview with Mr. Marsden and see what can be done in regard to the contemplated shut-down of the establishment in Thurber. With best wishes for success, and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.26 LF March 25, 1911 COPIED. MAR 25 1911 Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter just received from Organizer C. W. Woodman of Ft. Worth, Texas, he says: "The manager of the Thurber Company called on me yesterday in reference to the brick plant there. It is the only union plant in the state or in the South, wages are considerably higher and hours shorter than in competing plants, and competition is very keen. Certain changes must be made or the company is going to close the plant. Thurber, you will recall, is thoroughly unionized 100% strong. The company would not change this if it could. When I say this it will give you some idea of the seriousness of the trouble. I suggested that the president of this concern, Mr. Edgar L. Marsden, who lives in New York City, arrange for an audience with you and Butterworth of the brickmakers and then lay the whole matter before you. To shut this plant down will give our whole movement a black eye. I think the management is going to ask you to go into the question with them and I am quite sure you will find a solution." Knowing that you are well acquainted with Mr. Marsden I am writing to inquire whether you could not arrange some time mutually convenient to interview him and Mr. Butterworth of the Brick Makers for the purpose of going over this entire situation. Several years ago there was a great deal of trouble among the Brick Makers at Thurber and we finally succeeded in27 Mr. John Mitchell--2 organizing the plant. You can appreciate what it would mean if the establishment was now to be conducted on a non-union basis. Please let me have a word from you in regard to this and if you can act upon my suggestion, I will then take the matter up with Mr. Butterworth or you could write to him direct if you so desire. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. COPIED MAR 25 1911 28 LF March 25, 1911 COPIED MAR 25 1911 Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer American Federation of Labor Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: The St. Louis Convention, by Resolution #119, directed that a conference be held between the representatives of the Painters and the representatives of the Brotherhood of Car Workers. Since the adjournment of the convention, I have been in continuous correspondence with the officers of both organizations. The conferende has been called for two separate dates, when at the last moment either one or the other of the two organizations were unable to be represented and the conference was called off. It now appears that arrangements can be made for the conference for the middle of April, probably around April 20th or 25th. The Painters suggest that it should be held in Chicago. if the 25th is decided upon and Chicago the place, would it be possible for you to act as the representative of the A. F. of L? Then there is another conference as provided by resolutions 22 and 81, in which the representatives of the Painters, Carriage and Wagon Workers, the Blacksmiths and the Upholsterers will participate. I think this conference could be called for29 Mr. John B. Lennon --2 Chicago on the 24th. If these two conferences can be arranged for the 24th and 25th of April would it be possible for you to attend both as the representative of the A. F. of L? Please advise me as to this at your early convenience and I will then take the matter up further with the several organizations interested. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. COPIED MAR 25 191130 LF March 25,1911 COPIED. MAR 25 1911 Mr. Charles B. Crowley, Secretary International Printing Pressmen and Assistants Second National Bank Building, Cincinnati, O Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 23rd instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that the small photographs which I have are no good and I would rather that you did not use them for reproduction in your annual year book. Why not have the large photograph I sent you photographed on a smaller scale and then have a cut made of that? I am sending you under separate cover an artist proof of myself which I regard as very good and if you can have a cut made from that, that would be entirely satisfactory to me. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.31 COPIED. MAR 25 1911 LF March 25, 1911 Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of yesterday in the Italian Congress to be held in Philadelphia next Monday, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have just received from Organizer Hugh Frayne. The Congress is evidently of greater importance than I had inferred from Mr. Romagnoli's letter. I think it would be well if you would attend as many of the sessions as you can conveniently do so, consistent with the other work which you have in mind. Please keep me advised fully in regard to the matter, and oblige, Fraternally yours Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure: P. S. I assume Brother D'Alessandro will be in attendance the conference, and trust that you will impress upon him the necessity of impressing upon the delegates the sympathetic and co-operative attitude of the A. F. of L. to organize and to help the Italian workmen.32 COPY. New York, March 24, 1911 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor Ouray Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I have just been informed by Mr. Salvatore Ninfo, of the Italian organizers of the International Union of Ladies Garment Workers, that a conference will be held in Philadelphia beginning Monday, March 27th, and will continue for four days ending on Thursday, the 30th. the Congress is advertised as the Italian Colonial Congress and is being promoted by the King of Italy who, it is stated has appropriated $80,000.00 for this purpose. It is the intention of the Congress to discuss the general welfare of the Italian people of this country. On Tuesday, the 28th, the question of the Italian working men and women being affiliated with organized labor with be the subject. Organizer Ninfo of the Ladies Garment Workers, Caroti of the Women's Trade Union League and an Italian organizer whose name I cannot recall, of the United Garment Workers, are going to be in attendance. I am calling this matter to your attention to suggest that perhaps it might be a good idea if Organizer Eichelberger is still in Philadelphia, to have him look up this meeting and find out the particulars and report same to you. I am not aware of the hall in which the meeting will be held but as no doubt it will be a large affair there will not be much trouble in finding out the hall in which it is held. With best wishes, I beg to remain, Fraternally yours (Signed) Hugh Frayne, General Organizer American Federation of Labor 33 [*For copy see page 32*] LF March 25, 1911 [*COPIED. MAR 23 1911*] Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of yesterday in regard to the Italian Congress to be held in Philadelphia next Monday, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have just received from Organizer Hugh Frayne. The Congress is evidently of greater importance than I had inferred from Mr. Romagnolf's letter. I think it would be well if you would attend as many of the sessions as you can conveniently do so, consistent with the other work which you have in mind. Please keep me advised fully in regard to the matter, and oblige, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure: P. S. I assume Brother D'Alessandro will be in attendance at the conference, and trust that you will impress upon him the necessity of impressing upon the delegates the sympathetic and cooperative attitude of the A. F. of L. to organize and to help the Italian workmen.[*34*] [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911*] LF March 25, 1911 Mr. Charles H. Moyer, President Western Federation of Miners, 605 Railroad Building, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Through one of my correspondents I have received typewritten copy of the circular letter which you issued to the members of the Western Federation of Miners, under date of February 15th, and I have also seen it in that official journal about that data. I would appreciate it very much if you would do me the kindness to send me 15 copies of this circular. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*35*] [*COPIED. MAR 23 1911*] X. March 25, 1911. Mr. S. W. Wilkinson, c/o R. M. A., Bedford City, Va. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22d. instant is received and contents noted. Enclosed you will please find list of pamphlets published by this office, any of which we will be glad to send you upon receipt of your order. I would suggest that in your study of the labor question you should read Thorald Hogars' "Six Centuries of Work and Wages", and also "The Ancient Lowly" by Osborne Ward. Your say that you want to get a brief history of all or certainly the most important labor unions that have been organized in this country. You will note from the enclosed list the national and international unions affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. These are practically all the national unions of the country, except those of the Railroad Brotherhoods, which aren't listed therein, and the Bricklayers and Masons' International Union. So far as I know, there has been no history of these various organizations compiled in one volume, no more than has the histroy of the American Federation of Labor itself. If you desire to study the history, the aims, the objects, the work of any particular one of these organizations, the secretary whose name and address appear on the list will be glad to furnish you such printed matter as he36 Mr. S. W. Wilkinson -2- may have at his disposal. For a brief reference to the American Federation of Labor, your attention is directed to the enclosed leaflets. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. COPIED. MAR 23 1911[*37*] [*COPIED. MAR 23 1911*] X. March 24, 1911. Mr. Herman Robinson, 277 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st instant to hand and comments noted, also the enclosures. I also read the copy of the communication sent to the Executive Committee of the New York Central Federated Union by Mr. Harry Mountford, Secretary of the Board of Directors, White Rats Actors Union of America, bearing date March [16?]th. I should say that Mr. Mountford, Mr. Hill and myself had a conference in regard to an entirely different matter; that coincidently the subject matter of this Brennan Bill was discussed, the conference and discussion taking place a day after you brought the matter to my situation. Today I am in receipt of a letter from him in which he also gives me a copy of his letter to the Executive Committee of the New York C. F. U. Now, of course, I do not care about discussing the personal references or reflections indulged in by either, but it seems to me that Mr. Mountford points out serious defects in the bill, provisions which would react against the interests of the members of the theatrical profession, and [su?]rely the organization of the theatrical performers ought to be the best judges of what a law should be to protect and promote their interests. I would not for a moment entertain any doubt but what are prompted38 Mr. Herman Robinson - 2- by your best judgement, but I am sure that when the ranks of labor you would protest in the name of your union and in the name of labor, if any public official attempted to advocate the passage of a law which you and your union agreed was inimical to the interests of the workers. I therefore strongly urge that you should withdraw your support of the Brennan Hill, and yield to the judgement of the White Rats Actors Union of America in regard to this matter. When talking with you, and following day talking with Mr. Mountford, I expressed my regret at the feeling which each entertained toward the other, and I am decidedly of the onion that if you end Mr. Mountford, instead of being separated and working along points of disagreement, were to have a conference with the absolute intention of trying to reach an agreement, that a mutual understanding could be reached by which you and he could co-operate to really protect the interests of the performers. I should say that Mr. Mountford was in entire accord with me in regard to this matter, and hoped that I could have the conference immediately. Of course, that was out of the question, for I had to return to Washington. I hope that you are also in this frame of mind, and I shall be very glad upon the occasion of my next visit to New York to advise both you and him in advance and see whether an arrangement could not be made for a friendly conference. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 39 X. March 25, 1911. [*COPIED MAR 23 1911*] Mr. Daniel Harris, President, New York State Federation of Labor, 190 Bowery Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Judging from all the information which reaches me, as well as that which is published in the newspapers, it seems quite evident that Mr. Sheehan will withdraw from the Senatorial race, or that he will be eliminated by some other process. It is not necessary here to discuss the causes or the justice or injustice of the situation. The situation is as we find it. You will recall the discussion we had in regard to this matter some few weeks ago, and it seemed to me that if Mr. Sheehan for any reason is no longer a candidate, your time and opportunity has arisen, to see to it that some labor man should be pushed to the front for the position of United States Senator. If that is deemed inadvisable, some man who is well known to be in entire sympathy with the cause of labor should be put forward. I repeat what I said to you and to some of our other friends in conference, that under no circumstances was my name to be considered at all. I would not accept the position if it were tendered to me, and I really believe that it would be an utter impossibility to elect me, even though I were inclined that way. No better opportunity has presented itself in a long time[*40*] [*COPIED. MAR 23 1911*] Mr. Daniel Harris -2- to make a ten-strike for labor than the present, particularly in the movement for the election of the United States senators by direct vote of the people. The legislature of New York is Democratic. It has been in session over two months and yet the majority party has failed to elect a United States Senator. You should take advantage of this opportunity as President of the New York State Federation of Labor to present through the press Labor's position, criticising the situation as it exists, and incidentally mentioning the names of a few labor men, and a few other men devoted to the cause of labor, and say that inasmuch as under the law the legislature must elect, that body could go far and fare far worse than by the election of either one of these men for United States Senator from the State of the New York. I trust this matter will commend itself to your favorable consideration, and that you will let me hear from you in regard thereto at your early convenience. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.41 March 25, 1911. X. Mr. D. D'Alessandro, President, International Union of Hod Carriers and Building Laborers, Box 597, Albany, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: Please find enclosed copy of letter I have just written Mr. John Weaver Sherman, Chairman Legislative Committee, Massachusetts State Federation of Labor, in regard to the case of Miss Filomena di Cesare, which is self-explanatory, and which you will please accept as equally addressed to yourself. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*42*] [*COPIED. MAR 25 1911*] X. March 25, 1911. Mr. W. D. Mahon, President, Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes of America. 45 Hodges Block, Detroit, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find clipping from this morning's Washington Post and last night's Evening Star, in regard to the street car mail boxes. I would like to have a word from you as to this, and at the sane time to assure you of my desire of being helpful in any way that I can. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally Yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.43 x. March 25, 1911 Copied Mar,9 1911 Mr. John Weaver Sherman, Chairman, Legislative Committee, Mass. State Federation of Labor, 60 Pemberton Square, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: When I received the letter of yourself and Mr. D. D'Alessandro in regard to the case of the Italian young woman, Filomen Di Ceasare, now detained at Boston, I transmitted the original letters to the Commissioner General of Immigration, Mr. Daniel J. Keefe, with the request that his Department review the case and advise me in regard to it. I also immediately sent the following telegram to Mr. D'Alessandro: "Washington, D. C., March 24, 1911. Mr. D. D'Alessandro, 2 1/2 Charter Street, Boston, Mass. Letters received. Have submitted them to Commissioner General of Immigration, of which the following is a copy: Washington, D. C. March 24, 1911 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, 801-809 G. St., N. W. Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: I have received your letter of this date inclosing communications addressed to you by Messrs. Sherman and D'Alessandro, of Boston, Mass., regarding the case of the young Italian woman44 Mr. John Weaver Sherman -2- Filomena di Cesare now detained at Boston. The record here shows that the sailing is scheduled to occur from Boston April 8. This woman was rejected and her appeal dismissed by the Department principally because of the admissions of Giuseppe Gianandrea before the board of special inquiry and because it appears that the applicant intends to marry him if landed. It is true, the record shows the applicant was guilty of a moral indiscretion a number of years ago, but that is not the principal fact against her. Giuseppe Gianandrea's testimony was in part as follows: Q Have you, yourself lived with any woman in the past? A Yes. Q For how many years? A I used to change every 4 or 5 months. Q Have you any children by any of those women? A No. Q How long since you had the last one? A 6 or 7 months ago. Q Was she an Italian woman? A Yes. Q Was she a married woman? A Yes. She is married; she was glad and I was glad to separate. Q Where was her husband while you lived with her? A her husband was working here. Q Were they separated? A No sir. This woman landed here with another man some time ago and the husband learned of it and forgave her and they lived together again. Q How many women have you lived with the past 17 years while you have been in America? A About twenty. Q Did any of them every give you any money they earned in any manner? A No sir. They used to take all my money. Q Did you ever get legally married to any one? A No sir.' You can readily understand that both the Bureau and the Department were loath to allow a young woman to land for the purpose of marrying a man of such lax moral principles. However, if your correspondents desire to present any evidence that would change the complexion of the case, it is suggested that the same be forwarded to the Commissioner of Immigration, Boston, to whom a copy of this letter has been referred. A copy is also enclosed for your convenience in writing Mr. Sherman. Respectfully, (Signed) DANIEL J. KEEFE Commissioner - General." Of course this testimony given by Guiseppe Gianandrea before the Board of special inquiry at the Port of Boston, shows that he is not such a sort of man they government would be willing to admit a foreign woman to enter the United Staes for the 45 Mr. John Weaver Sherman -3- purpose of marrying him. Indeed, I cannot see how the woman's two brothers could even consent to their sister undertaking to marry the man in question. You will observe the Commissioner General Keefe states that if you or Mr. D'Alessandro desire to present any evidence that would change the complexion of the case, you should forward the same to the Commissioner of Immigration at Boston. I believe that if Miss. Di Cesare for herself declared that she will not marry Giuseppe Gianandrea, and her brothers undertake to guarantee that she will not become a public charge, she will be admitted. I wish you would let me hear from you in regard to the above matter, and oblige, Yours fraternally, President, American Federation of Labor.46 X. March 25, 1911. COPIED. MAR 23 1911 Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Muscatine, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of your favor of recent date, stating that Leo Hirsch, of New York City, is one of the leading button manufacturers of Muscatine. I have written to Organizer Hugh Frayne, of New York City, asking him to have an interview with Mr. Hirsch, for the purpose of persuading him to grant the workers the right to organize. As soon as I hear from him I will advise you further. With best wishes, and hopes for success, I am, Fraternally yours. Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.47 COPIED. MAR 23 1911 March 25, 1911. X. Your favor of the 24th instant is at hand, and contents noted. I am forwarding copy of your letter to my correspondents, Mr. John Weaver Sherman and Mr. D. D'Alessandro, and thank you for information you give me. Kindly return the two letter from Mr. Sherman and Mr. D. D'Alessandro so that our filee will be complete. Respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President, America Federation of Labor. Hon. Daniel J. Keefe, Commissioner General of Immigration, Washington, D.C. COPIED. MAR 23 191148 [*COPIED. MAR 28 1911*] *[COPIED. MAR 27 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. August Belmont, Chairman, Department on Compensation and Industrial Accidents, National Civic Federation, One Madison Avenue, New York City. My dear Mr. Belmont: Your favor of March 24th is received and contents noted. You advise me that the Executive Committee of your Department will meet at three P. M. on Wednesday April the 19th, at 10096 Metropolitan Building, to consider plans for future work relative to Workmen's Compensation. I cannot now say definitely whether I will be able to attend the meeting, but I hope to do so. It will depend in a large measure upon whether the Supreme Court of the United States hands down its decision upon our appeal case. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.49 X. March 28, 1911. Mr. Frederic W. Gardner, Southern Hotel, St. Louis, Mo. [*COPIED MAR 28 1911*] My dear Mr. Gardner: Mr. Gompers received your letter of the 23d. just a few minutes before his leaving this city for Atlanta and therefor he was unable to reply to it. He directed me to acknowledge its receipt and to say to you that he hoped to write you as soon as possible after his return from Atlanta, which would be the latter part of this week. He regrets very much to know that Mrs. Gardner is still suffering so intensely from neuralgia, and hopes that with the approaching spring weather she may regain her usual health. Mrs. Gompers is improving and is now able to sit up some each day. You ask when it is likely that the Supreme Court will hand down its decision in the contempt appeal case. The court took a recess two weeks ago until Monday, April the third. It is expected that the decision will be handed down on that date, though of course there is no way by which this may be definitely know. I imagine when it is given it will be promptly flashed on the bulletin boards of all the leading cities. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.50 COPIED. MAR 28 1911 X. March 28, 1911. Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant is received, and I thank you for your very comprehensive report of your interview with the Whitehead and Hoag Company on the afternoon of March the 22d. You of course will not fail to keep me fully advised as to what is the final remit of your conference with the representative of the Company. I trust that the entire matter will be satisfactorily straightened out. Hoping to hear from you further, and with best wishes for success. I am, Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.51 X. March 26, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 28 1911*] Mr. John Mitchell, Vice- President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 27th instant is received and contents noted. I thank you for your prompt compliance with my request to take up with Mr. Marston the matter of the contemplated shut-down of the brick making plant at Thurber, Texas. Acting upon your suggestion I have just written to Mr. Butterworth advising him of what you say and requesting him to get in immediate communication with you. You should hear from him in the course of a few days. He can be reached at: Mr. Frank Butterworth, Room 409, 56 Fifth Avenue, Chicago, Ilinois. Sincerely trusting that you will be successful in accomplishing something in behalf of the men of Thurber, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.52 X. March 29, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] Mr. Frank Butterworth, President, Int'l. Brick, Tile and Terra Cotta Workers' Alliance, Room 409, 56 5th Avenue, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Organizer C. W. Woodman, of Fort Worth, Texas, he informed me as to the conditions in the brick plant at Thurber and that the company anticipates closing the plant down the first week of May. He expressed the opinion that if this is done it would be a most disastrous blow to organized labor. He therefore suggested that I should get in communication with Mr. Marston of New York City, the President of the Company, and with you, for the purpose of arranging a conference and seeing if something could not be done in behalf of your organization. As my engagements are of such a character as to make it very indefinite as to when I could give this matter my personal attention, and as Vice-President John Mitchell is well acquainted with Mr. Marston, I placed the matter in his hands. He now writes me as follows: "I called Mr. Marston on the telephone and learned from him that it is the intention to close the brick plant at Thurber about the first of May. Mr. Marston says -- and he has told me this on several occasions when I have talked with him -- that the company cannot continue the present arrangement with the union, for the reason -- he says -- that the company is losing money and is compelled either to close down or to have an arrangement with the union that will enable the company to operate profitably. He will be glad to53 Mr. Frank Butterworth -2- see Mr. Butterworth with me at any time we can call upon him. I am leaving here Wednesday night and shall not return before the middle of next week; therefore I suggest that you arrange to have Mr. Butterworth come here for Monday morning, April 10th. I am compelled to leave for the west on Wednesday, April 12th, and shall not return until about the 21st of April. I shall be very glad to assist in every possible way in securing a settlement that will prevent this proposed shut-down of the brick works at Thurber." I would therefore suggest that you get in immediate communication with Mr. Mitchell, so that definite arrangements may be made for a conference. Please let me have a word from you as to this at your early convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.54 X. March 28, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 28 1911*] Mr. William H. O'Brien, President, Central Labor Union, 38 Mt. Vernon St., Dorchester, Mass. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 22d. instant, which will be brought to his attention immediately upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard, Secretary to President Gompers.55 X. March 28, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 28 1911*] Mr. A. M. Huddell, Local #4, International Union of Steam Engineers, 386 Harrison Ave., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 21st instant, which will be brought to his attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.56 X. March 28, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 28 1911*] Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir: Before leaving the city Saturday for Atlanta, President Gompers directed me to acknowledge receipt of your report on your investigation of Egg Inspectors' Union #11254, with which he is very much gratified. If Mr. Ronenberg appeals to Mr. Gompers against the action taken by local #11254, you will be promptly advised, so that you can be present when the matter is taken up for hearing. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.57 X. March 28, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 28 1911*] Mr. D. A. Hayes, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. My dear Mr. Hayes: Both of your letters of the 24th addressed to President Gompers reached here on Saturday, just an hour or two before his leaving for Atlanta. He regrets that you will not be able to comply with his request to write an article for publication for publication in the American Federationist, but he appreciates fully the circumstances which prevent your doing so. As there were so many immediate matters to which it was necessary for him to give his attention before leaving, he could not at that time take up the matter of an organization for Bridgeton, New Jersey, as you suggested. This will be given attention, though, as soon as possible after his return, which will be the latter part of this week. I regret not having been able to advise you of this earlier, but as I accompanied Mr. Gompers part of the way to Atlanta so as to enable him to complete some necessary work, I only just returned to the office, and hence could not write you earlier. Mr. Gompers desired me to convey to you his sincere good wishes, and to express the hope that you will rapidly regain your health. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.58 X. March 28, 1911. COPIED. MAR 28 1911 Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant received and contents noted. I regret that your engagements are such that you will not be able to represent the A. F. of L. at the two conferences in Chicago as suggested in my letter to you of the 23d. However, I am now endeavoring to make other arrangements. In postscript to your letter, you refer to the matter of when the next meeting of the Executive Council will be held. I have talked this matter over with several members of the Executive Council, and while in New York recently with Vice-President Duncan. What I had in mind was this; that we certainly should have an Executive Council meeting before Vice-President Duncan leaves for the other side. That would imply that the meeting should be held about the middle of June. However, another matter had also to be considered and that was in the event of the Supreme Court of the United States deciding against us, we certainly ought to have an Executive Council meeting before the time that you and Brother Morrison and I would have to go to jail. We had been expecting the court to render its decision and hand down its opinion February 20th, and every Monday since we59 Mr. John Mitchell -2- have been disappointed. The court has taken another recess and will reconvene April third. Everyone who has spoken with me upon the subject, has expressed their confident belief that the court will render its decision on that date. My inclination and judgement are that I would request the Executive Council to attend a meeting within two weeks after the time the decision would be rendered. I regret that I cannot at this time give you more definite information upon the subject. With sincere good wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.60 March 22, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 23 1911*] Mr. J. T. Manee, Organizer, 32 Asylum St., Hartford, Connecticut. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of March 22, in President Gompers' absence, and to thank you for the clippings you enclose relative to the strike of the stage employers. Same will be brought to his attention at the earliest opportunity. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 61 M March 28, 1911. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, etc., 222 N. Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. COPIED MAR 28 1911 Dear Sir: President Gompers received your letter of the 22nd just and hour or two previous to his leaving headquarters on a mission of importance connected with the movement, and he, therefore, had no opportunity of making personal reply thereto. He directed me to acknowledge receipt, and to say to you it has not yet been decided when the next meeting of the Executive Council will be held, but when it has been decided upon that you will be duly advised. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.62 COPIED. MAR 28 1911 M March 28, 1911. Hon. Daniel J. Keefe, Commissioner General of Immigration, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: President Gompers will appreciate your kindness in forwarding to him typewritten copy of your report and observation on the industrial conditions in Hawaii. You will please accept his thanks for your courtesy. I shall not fail to bring the report to his attention at the earliest opportunity after his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.63 M. Marh 28, 1911. Mr. Harry Mountford, Secretary, White Rats of America, 1553 Broadway, New York City. [*COPIED. MAR 28 1911*] Dear Sir: Replying to your letter of March 27, I beg to advise you that President Gompers is in Atlanta on official business, and so far as I know does not expect to go to New York for sometime to come, certainly not this week. Very truly yous, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.64 M March 28, 1911. Mr. W. D. Mahon, President, Amalgamated Assn. of Street and Electric Railway Employees. 45 Hodges Block, Detroit, Michigan. COPIED. MAR 28 1911 Dear Sir: Before leaving the city on Saturday last President Gompers directed me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of March 20, and to thank you for your compliance with his request for data and information as to the subway strike in New York City some years ago. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.65 NO. 30. X . March 28, 1911. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COPIED. MAR 28 1911 COLLEAGUES: Enclosed you will find copy of a letter which I received from Mr. R. Flores Magon, who writes for the Junta of the Mexican Liberal Party. You will also find enclosed copy of my reply. I also enclose to you herein an extract from the official printed proceedings of the Toronto A. F. of L. convention, containing a resolution unanimously adopted by the convention, declaratory of the attitude of labor upon war, and the instructions of the Executive Council to use its best efforts to prevent. Within a reasonable time I suppose I shall receive a reply from Mr. Flores Magon, and then shall submit it to the Executive Council as to whether the request of Mr. Magon shall be accorded and protest entered in the name of the A. F. of L. and lodged with the President of the United States. Until then you will please keep in mind the documents herein submitted. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.66 COPY. Washington, D. C., March 18, 1911. Mr. R. Flores Magon, Headquarters of the Junta of the Mexican Liberal Party, 519 1/2 E. 4th Street, Los Angeles, Cal. COPIED. MAR 28 1911 Dear Sir: Your favor of the 11th instant to hand and contents noted. It is impossible to attempt to convey to you the intense interest I feel in the military movements how being conducted under direction of the President of the United States. It is difficult and may be simply a matter of surmise of the ultimate purpose of these "maneuvers". Thinking, earnest Americans who love our Republic and the principles upon which it is founded can only entertain the hope that your apprehensions may be unfounded. I say this not simply for the preservation of the rights of the people of Mexico to the government of their own affairs, but also for the integrity of the United States and the liberty of our people. After receiving your letter with its request to me to enter protest, my first impulse was to refer the matter to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor for decision, but before so doing I should say to you that I have not seen concretely stated the principles and purposes for which the revolutionary movement in Mexico was begun. I do not refer to the negative side, but to the affirmative. I think the American people should be told by the authorized spokesmen of the revolutionary movement of Mexico, what it aims to accomplish as a constructive power if entrusted with67 Mr. R FLores Magon -2- the powers of government of Mexico. If the present regime is to be supplanted by another, the present revolutionary party, without fundamentally changing the conditions which shall make for the improvement of the workers' opportunities, and a greater regard for their rights and their interests, then the American labor movement can look upon such a change with entire indifference. If you will communicate to me the information which I seek, I shall in turn communicate it to my colleagues of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. for their instructions in the premises. I assume that you are aware that it would be impossible for me to take any definite action upon so momentous a matter as the one under consideration without the approval of my colleagues. I repeat, however, that it is my sincere hope that the military movements of the troops of the United States may have no further purpose than at first stated by President Taft, "maneuver and mobilization of the forces for educational purposes'. Hoping for an early reply, I am, Very truly yours, (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President American Federation of Labor.68 COPY. Extract from proceedings of the Toronto, Convention of the A. F. of L., November, 1909. "The committee recommended that Resolution No. 24 be amended to read as follows: Resolution No. 24 - By Delegates A. B. Lowe and T. W. Cassidy of the Maintenance of Way Employees: Delegate O'Sullivan - What does that carry with it? Delegate Frey - It carries with it the request that the Executive Council is requested to use its best efforts to bring about the conditions requested in the Resolution. "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 fall 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 our69 -2- 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. 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 the Chairman Tawney of the Committee of Appropriations. On motion, the recommendation of the committee was concurred in.70 COPY. Headquarters of the Junta of the Mexican Liberal Party, 519 1/2 E. 4th St., Los Angeles, Cal., March 11, 1911. TO Samuel Gompers, President of the American Federation of Labor, Washington D. C. Sir: The Mexican Liberal Party appeals to you - to you directly and officially, as head of the largest body of organized labor in the United States. It appeals to you in a cause as just and holy as ever history recorded; it makes an appeal, therefore, that you cannot and, we are sure, will not resist. It is time that the workingmen of the United States speak out, and it is for you to give the word, promptly and decisively. The slavery against which we are righting is the slavery your American Federation of Labor was organized to fight. The chains that the money power has fastened on us are the chains against which you fret. Our cause is your cause, but your cause in its extremest, most pitiable and, therefore, most irresistible firm. We are in revolt against unspeakably atrocious slavery, forced on us and supported by the American money power. The Standard Oil Co., the Guggenheims, the Southern Pacific Railway, the Sugar Trust -- all that Wall Street autocracy against which you and the great masses of your nation are making such vigorous protest -- are the powers against which we of Mexico are in revolt. They have dispossessed us of our lands and rendered us homeless by the hundreds of thousands; they have left us the choice of exile or imprisonment in such hells as the Valle Nacional. To support this Wall Street inferno American soldiers are being called to arms. Already by the tens of thousands they are being sent to our borders, that they may aid in stamping out the 71 -2- last spark of that freedom which is supposed to be the basis of your Republic. It is time for affective protest, and it is you who can make it most effectively. The issue is clear, unmistakeable, beyond evasion. We repeat that our cause is your cause, and we call on you to give it voice -- promptly, clearly and decisively. Yours, for human liberty, (Signed) R. Floresmagon. SEAL Junta Organizadora Del Partido Liberal Maxicano COPIED. MAR 28 191172 M March 28, 1911. Mr. Edgar A. Perkins, Organizer, Room 16, Union Block, Indianapolis, Indiana. COPIED. MAR 28 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant received and contents noted. I beg to say in reply that I have just written to Secretary L A. Barth of the Central Labor Union, in conformity with your request, and for your information enclose to your herein copy of that letter. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.73 X. March 28, 1911. Mr. Thomas H. Flynn, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Monongahela House, Pittsburg, Pa. COPIED. MAR 28 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Secretary Morrison wrote you Saturday in reply to your letter relative to whether he or I could address meeting in Pittsburg, on Sunday afternoon April the second, stating that it would be impossible for us to do so, and suggesting that you should extend an invitation to Vice-President Mitchell. At the same time I also wrote to Mr. Mitchell in regard to the matter, and I am now in receipt of a reply from him in which he says that unless circumstances so shape themselves as to make it imperative that he should go to Indanapolis for Sunday, April the second, that he should be glad to be present and address the meeting of railroad men at the Lyceum Theater in Pittsburg on Sunday afternoon. He further says that he can be reached at the Hotel Henry, in Pittsburg. He expects to reach there, I understand, on Thursday morning. I would therefore suggest that you get in immediate communication with him. Kindly let me have a word from you in regard to this at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.74 X. March 28, 191. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, 10096 Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. COPIED MAR 28 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th instant is received and contents noted. I am glad to know that you think you will be able to address the meeting in Pittsburg on Sunday afternoon, April the second. I have just written to one of the A. F. of L. organizers there, advising him of this, and requesting him to get in immediate communication with you at the Hotel Henry upon your arrival there. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.75 M March 28, 1911. Mr. Frank H. McCarthy, Organizer, 97 Union Park St., Boston, Mass. COPIED. MAR 28 1911 Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers and replying to your favor of the 24th instant, in compliance with your request I enclose to you herein copy of letter which you wrote him under date of June 12, 1910. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard. Secretary to President Gompers.76 COPIED. MAR 29 1911 X. March 29, 1911 Mr. H. B. Perham, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Star Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th instant at hand and contents noted. You enclose a letter written by W. S. Peebles, representing sub-local #1, of Electrical Workers' Local #1, of St. Louis, Missouri. You request that I should reply thereto, and I have therefore written the gentlemen giving him the information he desired. Wish best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.77 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. A. L. Leubuscher, Water Mill, New York. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 Dear Sir: Your two favors of March the 17th and 27th have been duly received and contents noted. As you have already been advised by my secretary, I was out of the city when your first letter reached here, in which you enclosed matter, suggesting that it should be published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. You will therefore understand the delay in my taking the matter up with you further. I beg to thank you for your courtesy in sending the matter to me. I regret to say, however, that it is hardly suitable for the columns of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST and therefore in compliance with your request I return it to you herein. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor, EDITOR, AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.78 N March 29, 1911. Mr. David Lubin, Delegate, Internationale Institute D'Agriculture, Rome, Italy. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 My dear Mr. Lubin: I have at last succeeded in getting the documents, and as per our understanding I am sending you by express a package containing 5,000 copies which I trust will reach you promptly. I regret the delay very much, but it seems that there was so much work ahead of this in the Government Printing Office that it was impossible to have it gotten out earlier. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.79 M March 29, 1911. IN REPLY PLEASE STATE NUMBER OF RESOLUTION - 36. Mr. Otto Nichols, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 764 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn, N. Y. COPIED MAR 29 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st instant received and contents noted. Upon looking up the resolution of the St. Louis Convention in regard to union label fair held by your Central Labor Union, I find in Resolution No. 36, introduced by the delegate from the New York State Federation of Labor, concurred in by the Convention, read as follows: WHEREAS, There has been successfully carried on for a number of years by the Brooklyn Central Labor Union, what is known as the Union Label Fair, which has effectively promoted the sale of union made goods. Realizing that the plan would be more effective if such fairs were held in different parts of the country and promoted by the American Federation of Labor, and through them the manufacturers of union-made articles throughout the country would be induced to exhibit; be it RESOLVED, That we endorse the plan conducted by the Brooklyn Central Labor Union and recommend the same to the American Federation of Labor Convention, to be held in St. Louis, and that the delegate of this body be instructed to present the same to the convention for action.80 O. N. 2. I am taking the matter up with Secretary Tracy of the Union Label Trades Department of the A. F. of L., and will see what can be done in regard to the matter of union label fairs in different sections of the country. The Union Label Trades Department at this time is conducting a series of moving picture shows, in which are exhibited the union label of the different trades. At the same time a brief lecture or talk is given in connection with the use of this label. These moving picture shows I understand from Secretary Tracy are proving very effective, and also productive of great good in the better education of our people and their better understanding of the union label and what it means and stands for. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.81 M March 29, 1911. Mr. Thomas F. Tracy, Secretary, Union Label Trades Department A. F. of L., Room 708 Ouray Bldg., Washington, D. C. [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: For your information I enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have just received from the Secretary of the Central Labor Union of Brooklyn, N. Y., together with copy of my reply. I wish you would kindly let me have a word from you as to what your department has done or contemplates doing as regards the suggestion relative to union label fairs. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.82 COPY CENTRAL LABOR UNION OF BROOKLYN. Brooklyn, N. Y., March 21, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: As you are aware the Central Labor Union has held several Union Label fairs, at which no effort was spared to aid their purpose in promoting the better recognition of the union label, and after four years of hard work, we find that the results have not proven satisfactory, as store dealers do not carry a line of union products, with but few exceptions: the business men seem to fight, shy as much as possible from handling a general line of goods. When workingmen try to get a union made article, they are frequently offered some goods that appear to have been on the shelf for some time, and owing to the lack of variety shown to them, have little opportunity of purchasing things they require, with the Union Label, and in many instances the blame is attributed to indifference of the wage earner, and in not demanding the union label. It has really been a work of supererogation among all who took part in the several fairs held, and it was for the lack of interest shown by the Retail Dealers that led the body, after careful consideration, to instruct it's delegate to the A. F. of L. Convention to present a request, urging the A. F. of L. to permit the use of it's namefor future fairs, and that a circuit of labels fairs be arranged to go from town to town, as demands for such exhibits are made.83 -2- Our delegate reported that the matter had been referred to the Executive Council by the Convention, and up to date we have not heard anything regarding the attitude of the Council on this question, and, therefore, the body has instructed me to request that you inform me as to how the Council acted on this matter. Fraternally yours, OTTO NICHOLS, Corresponding Secretary.84 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. W. G. Hudnall, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 611 13th Street, Lynchburg, Va. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of March the 24th in regard to the strike of the Shoe Workers in your city, I would be glad if you would keep me advised from time to time as to the final result of the strike. I am just in receipt of a letter from President Tobin, of the Boot and Shoe Workers' International Union, in which he encloses copy of a letter which he wrote you under date of March the 24th. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.85 M March 29, 1911. Mr. William L. Hoefgen, President, Texas State Federation of Labor, Box 1113, San Antonio, Texas. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st instant is received and contents noted. In regard to the matter of the investigation of the Flour and Cereal Mill Employes International Union as directed by the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L., let me say, that this matter has been receiving the attention of the Executive Council and myself ever since the adjournment of the Convention. You can rest assured that we are endeavoring to do the very best we can in the interest of the men employed in the Flour and Cereal Mill industry, as well as in the interest of the labor movement in general. I hope to be able to advise you later of the application for charter for Flour and Cereal Mill Employes of San Antonio. I would suggest that you write me again in the course of a few weeks when I may be able to advise you definitely. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from your whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President A. F. of L.86 M March 29, 1911. Mr. Santiago Iglesias, Organizer, 11 Allen St., San Juan, P. R. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant is received and contents noted. You say that the strike of the Cigarmakers in Bayamon and San Juan has been settled, the men having returned to work on the terms agreed upon by the Strike Committee, the Company and yourself, and the manufacturers resumed work on Monday, February 6. I take it, therefore, from your letter that the members of the Tobacco Strippers Union No. 12722 having resumed work on the same day that the cigarmakers did they were only out a few days, and are not entitled to any assistance from the defense fund of the A. F. of L. However, I will await further advise from you as per my letter to you under date of March 15. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.87 M March 29, 1911. Mr. George A. Grant, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Box 375, Cle Elum, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant is received and contents noted. I would like you to advise me whether the Electrical Workers to whom you refer in your letter are employed by the mine operators in an around the mines or whether their employers are engaged in mining. Kindly give me this information at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.88 M March 28, 1911. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 Mr. H. O. Stine, Organizer, Prescott, Arizona. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 21st is received and contents noted. You say that you are in Arizona for a couple of weeks by reason of your wife's health, and you then desire to know whether you could be of any further assistance to the A. F. of L. by continuing to act as volunteer organizer. Our records show that commission was issued to you as organizer for, Cle Elum, Washington, and that you were discontinued from our list by reason of having removed from that city. When you are again permanently located, and you will have the central body or the union in which you hold membership, in case there should be no central body, endorse your name I shall be glad to again issue you a commission as volunteer organizer [as volunteer organizer]. You will understand that this is the procedure usually followed in such cases. In regard to the matter of organizing the retail clerks in Cle Elum, I beg to say that on January 19, 1911, I wrote you to Los Angeles, California. In that letter I said: "Relative to the balance of the commission which you say is due you for organizing the retail clerks, I beg to say that we have89 R. C. S. 8. no record at this office of having received such an application. I wish you would kindly advise us when this application was forwarded to this office. With kind regard and hoping to hear from you further I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. COPIED. MAR 29 191190 N March 29, 1911. Mr. J. C. Generouss, Organizer, 8 Pearl Street, Westfield, Massachusetts. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th instant is received and contents noted. I regret very much to learn that you should have suffered such an accident, and am glad to know that you are now able to get about, and trust that you will speedily regain your health and strength, I should be glad to have you advise me as to the result of the suit for damages which you have brought. With best wishes for success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.91 X. March 26, 1911. Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, President, Molders' Union of North America Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] My dear Mr. Valentine: Just before leaving the city Saturday for Atlanta, President Gompers received a letter from Mr. Gardiner. He was unable to make a reply but hopes to take the matter up as soon as possible after his return, the latter part of this week. In the meantime, he directed me to send a copy to you, which you will please find enclosed herein. With kind regards to both you are Mrs. Valentine, I am, Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers92 COPY. The Buck's Steve and Range Company, Saint Louis. Frederico W. Garner, President March 23, 1911. Samuel Gompers, Esquire, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Gompers: I want to thank you most sincerely for you kind and courteous letter of the Eighteenth. I take it for granted, that as you do not object to what I am trying to do, personally, that you approve of my doing all I can to bring about the right results. I want to thank you most sincerely for what you are doing, and am fully aware that it will take a great deal of time, persistence and patience to bring about the desired results, and I am sure I can count on your help to the utmost. I think I ought to tell you confidentially, that I have discovered a state of affairs which is far from what I expected. Almost from the very hour of the settlement of our difficulties, it commenced to be apparent to me, that certain of the labor leaders, in our vicinity, have made up their minds that they could use our Company in doing practically anything they wanted to do, for the purpose of whipping other manufacturers, in our industry, into line. I took it for granted that the settlement of our difficulty in itself, was a big enough thing for any broad minded labor leader to take the position that we were friendly with organized labor, willing to do everything that could, in reason, be expected of us to advance the cause, and that if any demands of any kind were made, that we93 -2- would be the very last they were demanded of. It seems that instead of that, we are the very first to receive such demands. Some of them have gone to the extreme of trying to get us to do certain things, because The Majestic Manufacturing Company, who make Steel Ranges only and run no foundry, are doing certain things; while my understanding of the matter is, that we were not be asked to do anything that was not done by Manufacturers, of our kind, in St. Louis. None of us have thrown a straw in the way of our men being unionized, and now we are faced with a demand from the Polishers for a nine hour day; with a demand from the Mounters for a nine hour day, and a lot of other things; and from the Brotherhood of Foundry Employes, through our friend Mr. Bechtold, for a nine hour day, and a general advance in wages, ranging from fifteen to forty per cent. higher than is paid by our competitors in this market. Now I am going to try to settle all of these matters myself, without bothering you. Under the rules of The Stove Founders' National Defense Association, we must treat directly with our men, instead of with The International Labor Union Officers; and if we treat with them, it would be through the Association. There is one point that you may be called in to settle, and that is: whether, when the agreement was made at Cincinnati, in which Messrs. Cribben and Hogan agreed that we were to be placed upon a parity with other concerns running Union shops in this City, if it was not intended to refer to concerns like The Bridge and Beach Manufacturing Company and The Charter Oak Stove and Range Company, who are our only legitimate competitors in this City on a full line of goods. In my humble opinion, it is a great pity that some of the94 -3- labor leaders are not broader minded, and farther seeing men. If a very small percentage of them were like yourself, the interest of labor would soon be wonderfully advanced. I write you in this strain, more as a friend than as the Head of Organized Labor, but I am "up against it" in a good many different directions, and I cannot help expressing my disappointment that things are not far more like I expected they would be; and the last thing I expected was, that labor leaders would even dream of such a thing as using us as an instrument to bring about certain results in other Factories. To be plain about the matter, I thought that if anything was wanted that we would be the very last to be asked to do it. Mrs. Gardner is still suffering terribly from Neuralgia, and I am much worried on account of her. I am very sorry indeed to hear that Mrs. Gompers has been confined to her bed, and am hoping that with the beautiful spring weather, she will be able to go out and get some good fresh air and recover rapidly. I wish you would tell me who is to decide in the contempt case, and when it is likely to come up. Outside of yourself and Messrs. Mitchell and Morrison, I am sure no one could be more interested than I am, in the outcome of this matter, and I would like to know all about it. Warmest regard and best wishes. Yours sincerely, (Signed) Frederic W. Gardner.95 [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. John R. Alpine, President, United Association Journeymen Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters and Steam Fitters' Helpers. 411-416 Busch Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: In absence of President Gompers on official business, I beg to acknowledge receipt of you favor of the 23d instant, which will be brought to his attention upon his return to headquarters. Mrs. Gompers is improving somewhat, and is able to sit up a little each day, although it will be some time before she will regain her usual health. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.96 X. March 29, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] Mr. H. L . Richelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Please accept President Gompers' thanks for the information which you give in your letter of March the 25th, in regard to the Brotherhood of Railroad Mechanics. It will be of value to him and I will call the matter to his attention after his return from the South the latter part of this week. Very truly yours, R Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.97 [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. J. D. Pierce, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, The Lochiel, Harrisburg, Pa. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and in continuation of previous correspondence with you in regard to the Brotherhood of Railroad Mechanics in Philadelphia, I beg to say that Organizer Eichelberger, under date of March the 25th, writes to Mr. Gompers as follows: "Supplementary information in relative to the 'Brotherhood of Railroad Mechanics': The organization has been chartered under the laws of the state of Deleware, is in operation on the B & O. Phils. & Reading as well as the Penn. R. R. system. Dues are fifteen cents per week; some lodges pay $5.00, and some $4.00, per week sick benefit, with $200 at death after six months membership, Philadelphia Lodge meets at 'Younders' Hall, 4115 Lancaster Ave., every other Wednesday, next meeting April 5th, some time during the summer, as soon as I obtain the date will advise you. During week there was some little disturbance in the boiler shop of the Penn. R. R. this city in relation to one of the foremen and the matter was adjusted by committee from this brotherhood of mechanics." Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.98 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. Wm. J. Spencer, Secretary, Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., Ouray Building, City. [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] Dear Sir: Please accept Mr. Gompers' thanks for the copy of the minutes of your Executive Board meeting, held in Chicago, March 14-18. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.99 [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. B. L. Babcock, Willet, New York. My dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, and replying to your favor of March the 25th, I beg to enclose you herein list of pamphlets published by this office dealing with various phases of the labor movement. I would also refer you to Therald Rogers' "Six Centuries of Work and Wages"; to "The Ancient Lowly" by Osborne Ward; "Organized Labor" by John Mitchell; "Labor in Europe and America", by Samuel Gompers. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.100 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, Newtown Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: I have carefully gone over the letter written you by Mr. W. D. Prescott, under date of March 20th, and which you handed to me in New York City when I recently met your there. I am in entire accord with Mr. Prescott's suggestion that the Post Office Department should be conducted entirely for the convenience and welfare of the general public, and also that there ought to be one man who is thoroughly familiar with post office affairs, appointed by the President on the Commission created by authority of Congress for the study and report of the entire subject matter of second class postage. Since my return to Washington I have talked this matter over and the best information I have is that the President has appointed and aims to appoint men who are entirely unfamiliar with the subject; that they are expected to study the question without any previous bias or predilection, and I suppose without any information. Surely, no one will deny the advantage which has come to the people from the establishment of the rural free delivery. It has done wonderful good, yet the cost to the government has been enormous. Everyone realizes too that the government should protect itself101 Mr. James M. Lynch -2- from imposition, from fake publications, that is, the use by these publications of the second class postal rate. The bona fide publications, whether they be the magazines, the labor or fraternal press, and those devoted to the dissemination of knowledge and science, should, it seems to me, have the fullest, freest, opportunity of the present second class rates. Of course, I have not a word of adverse criticism of the gentleman whom the President has already appointed, and I doubt not but he will appoint another very capable man, but it would be a pity if [for] the commission was made up without at least having one ran upon [who] it who possesses the experience of technical knowledge of the operations of the Post Office Department. Of course I have not given up the idea of trying to have such a man considered by the President, but I have not much hope for success. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. I am writing to Mr. Prescott sending him copy of this letter to you.102 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. Frank Hubschmitt, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 184 Main Street, Paterson, N. J. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th instant received and contents noted. I was glad to hear from you with the report you make of the work which you are doing. I coincide with the opinion you express as to the possibility of organizing the Textile Workers of Paterson if continuous effort is made. I sincerely trust that you will be successful. In compliance with your request, I have directed that a rubber stamp be made and forwarded to you as follows: "If you are desirous to know more about the union or wish to have one started please send a postal to Frank Hubschmitt, District Organizer, 184 Main Street, Paterson, N. J." With kind regards and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.103 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. W. B. Prescott, The Inland Printer, 120-130 Sherman Street, Chicago, Ill. [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] My dear Mr. Prescott: I saw Mr. Lynch in New York recently and he handed me your letter to him under date of March 20th. I have written him in regard to the matter and enclose to your herein duplicate copy of my reply which you will kindly accept as equally addressed to you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.104 M. March 25, 1911. Mr. Steve McDonald, President, Central Labor Union, c/o 643 West Marker St., Scranton, Pa. COPIED. MAR 29 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 23rd received and contents noted. You say your Central Labor Union recently adopted a resolution which reads as follows: RESOLVED, That when a building in the course of construction, or work of any kind is declared unfair by this Central Labor Union, and the work or the building is listed in the unfair list, no union men will be permitted to work upon same. Any delegate or local union violating this law shall be expelled from the Central Labor Union, and before being re-instated shall pay a fine of not less than two hundred dollars." You request my decision as to whether the Central Labor Union was legally within its rights in adopting the resolution as above quoted and whether it has the power to enforce it. I beg first to call your attention to Section 7, Article XI of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. which reads as follows: "No Central Labor Union, or other central body of delegates, shall have authority or power to originate a boycott, nor shall such firm or corporation on an unfair list until the Local Union desiring the same has, before declaring the boycott, submitted the matter in dispute to the Central Body for investigation, and the best endeavors on its part to affect an amicable settlement. Violation of this section shall forfeit charter."105 S. Mo. 2. Your attention is further called to Section 9, of the same Article which provides: "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." I take it that the resolution above quoted was duly adopted by your central body at a time when all affiliated organizations were afforded the opportunity of being represented and expressing their views thereon. This procedure having been followed and it having been decided to declare the building as unfair, it becomes the moral duty of all affiliated local unions to abide by the action of your central body, and to render such assistance as they can. However, your attention is called to this fact that the matter of withdrawing workingmen or performers is a subject which the unions of the trade or profession must themselves determine. It is not within the power of a central body, nor is it in the power of the American Federation of Labor itself, to order men on strike. As to the question as to whether the central body has power to place a fine upon a local union for failure to abide by the cental body's decision, I answer in the negative. The central body must exercise its influence in a different and better way than by the imposition of fines. The results may not be attained as quickly by following the course I indicate, but the results are surely more permanent. The A. F. of L. has no power to impose a fine upon an affiliated organization. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President A. F. of L.106 [*COPIED. MAR 29 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Hon. David J. Lewis, Cumberland, Maryland. My dear Mr. Lewis: Your favor of the 24th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that when sending out the invitation for the conference here on April fifth, I understood that you were a member of the Miners' Union. I see from your letter that you do not belong to any organization, but in view of your close association with organized labor and the declarations you have made in support of labor's demands, I do not see why you should not participate in the conference. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.107 [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. John Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. Dear Sir: President Gompers will appreciate your letter of March the 27th and will await with interest your further report as to the result of your investigation in Brighton Mills, Passaic, New Jersey, these mills having been repeatedly referred to in connection with what is termed "greater efficiency" and "scientific management". Mr. Gompers is now absent from the city and you will kindly accept this as acknowledgement of the request of your letter pending his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.108 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 LP March 30, 1911 Mr. J. W. Hays, Secretary Joint Conference Board, Allied Printing Trades Council, Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 25th has been received in which, on behalf of the Joint Conference Board of the Allied Printing Trades Council, you submit report of the proceedings of that meeting insofar as is applicable to the several matters referred by the Executive Council at the January meeting. As regards the matter of the issuance of charter by the International Typographical Union to Newswriters, I have officially advised Mr. Gus Miller, Treasurer of the German Journalists Union of New York and Vicinity that the International Typographical Union will assume jurisdiction and issue charters to such organizations and that he should again make formal application for charter to your International Union. Copy of your letter has been submitted to my colleagues of the Executive Council for their information and consideration pending further consideration and action at our next meeting. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.109 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. Theodore Eichorn, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 234 West 23d. Street, Erie, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our recent correspondence in regard to the local unions of several International Unions which are thus far unaffiliated with your central body. I beg to say that President O'Connor of the International Association of Longshoremen, writes me that there are three locals of his Association in Erie, Pa. He has written to them relative to their becoming affiliated with your Central Body. He has not as yet received any reply, but he has no doubt but that in the course of time he will be able to have them take the necessary steps to become affiliated in conformity with the provisions of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. He suggests that if you as Secretary of the Central Labor Union would visit these locals and confer with them in regard to the matter, it would be greatly helpful to him. Referring to the general subject matter of the local unions of Longshoremen being represented in affiliated Central Bodies, President O'Connor says that the record of his office show that during the past eighteen months about 130 of his local unions which had been previously unaffiliated with the central bodies and state federation of labor, have now fallen into line and are in full110 Mr. Theodore Eichborn -2- affiliation. He further says that he will continue to exert every effort at his command to have every local of his Association become represented in Central Bodies wherever such bodies are in existence. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.111 [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. T. V. O'Connor, President, International Longshoremen's Association, 1004 Mutual Life Building, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 27th instant is received and contents noted. I have just written to Mr. Eichhorn, Secretary of the Central Labor Union of Erie, advising him of your activities in the matter of having your locals in Erie become represented in the Central Labor Union, and suggesting that he should co-operate with you in this course by visiting your locals and urging upon them the necessity and advisability of conforming to the provisions of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. I am greatly interested in the report you make as to 130 of your locals during during the past eighteen months having fallen into line and become affiliated with central bodies and state federations of labor. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.112 [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to the Badge Makers' Union #11555 of Jersey City, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter from the Secretary of that organization in which he gives the desired information as to the membership of his union. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.113 COPY. DECORATORS BADGE MAKERS AND COSTUMERS, UNION #11555, Jersey City, March 25th. 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres. A. F. of L., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I received your letters of March 24th, March 3d, and Jan. 13th. The reason that I did not answer myself was that I sent word to our Secretary, Miss Millie Bothe, to send the list of our members as you requested. After getting your letter of March 23d. I went to Miss Bothe's house and found her still sick in bed and very low. So I did not say anything about the union to her, and I notified all the members to be present at our meeting of Friday eve. March 24, so I found find out where they are employed at present. So at our meeting last night only these members attended: Miss K. Curran, Mr. F. J. Curran, Miss Jordan, A. Kirchgessner, R. Kirshgessner, Phil Warn, Jr., Mr. J. Wilkinson, Miss A. Kummel, Miss W. Dohler. The following members are employed at the present time: Miss K. Curran, ) Employed by the firm of John Curran, Clinton Ave., Mr. F. J. Curran ) West Hoboken, Badge Makers and Decorating, Both make badges and sew and put up decorations. (shop) Miss H. Kirchgessner ) Employed by Katie Kirchgessner Co., Washington Mr. R. Kirchgessner ) St. Hoboken, Badge Makers, Costumers and Decorators, Both make badges, and sew and put up decorations. (store) Mr. Phil Warn, Jr. ) Employed by the Flag Decorating Co., 330 Barrow St. Jersey City, make and put up decorations only. (shop) Mr. J. Wilkinson ) Employed by M. and J. Bothe Co., Newark Ave., Jersey Miss Jordan ) city, Badge Makers and Costumers, make badges and Miss A. Kummel, ) fix costumes. ( store) and in Brooklyn sometimes. Mrs. W. Dohler, Employed by the Union Badge Co., West Hoboken, (shop) makes badges only.114 -2- All these have shops and stores where they sell and make badges and mask costumes. They do not manufacture the goods they have for sale. All parts of badges are made by Jewelry Workers, Printers, etc., and the firms above buy all these in parts and the Badge Makers put them together to make a badge. In an all ribbon badge they cut parts and send them to the printers to have the name of the club or Association printed on them, and then they sew all parts together. There is no whole badge made by any of the firms where our members are employed, except a plain ribbon badge where no bar or printing is on. I have written to the rest of the members, Mr. G. Hermann, Mr. Decurex, Mr. Jacobs, Mr. Goldsmith, (and Miss. M. Bothe who is not working at present) to let me know where they are employed at present, and as soon as I get the answers I will go there and see whether it is a shop or a home and will let you know later. I think that some of them are not working at all at badge making at present, as things are very slow now. In looking over some of the books of our Secretary, I find they are a little mixed up on account of her being sick, as everything has always been left to the Secretary to attend to. We are getting her books in shape by a committee of three. Yours fraternally, (Signed) Phil Warn, Jr., President, Local #11555, A. F. of L. 211 York St., Jersey City, N.J.115 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. My dear Mr. Eichelberger: Acting upon your suggestion of the 25th instant, I have written to the Managing Editor of the Philadelphia Ledger and requested him to send us copy of the Sunday edition of his paper, February 26. If we cannot get it that way, then I suppose we will have to give the matter up. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.116 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 X. March 29, 1911. Managing Editor, Philadelphia Ledger, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: I would esteem it a great favor if you would kindly have sent to me copy of the Sunday edition of your paper of February 26. I understand there is a special article in that issue which I particularly desire to secure. I enclose five cents in stamps in payment therefor. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.117 COPIED. MAR 30 1911* X. March 29, 1911. Mr. W. Bowden, Southwestern University, Georgetown, Texas. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 24th instant, in which you enclose copy of your argument in a debate upon the question "Resolved, That Labor Unions are justifiable in insisting upon the closed shop." He will appreciate your courtesy in sending the matter to him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers118 [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. Jas. J. Hannahan, Secretary, International Union of Steam Engineers, 6303 Harvard Avenue, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Organizer William Feinauer, of Fremont, Nebraska, he says that a local union of Stationary Engineers was organized some time ago in Fremont, but that thus far he has been unable to induce them to send delgates to the Central Labor Union. I would appreciate it very much if you would kindly take this matter up immediately with the Secretary of your local in Fremont, to the end that prompt steps may be taken to have that body comply with the requirements of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. as set forth in Article 11, Section 2. Thanking you in advance for your attention to this matter, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.119 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. William Feinauer, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 64 So. Logan Street, Fremont, Nebr. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22d. instant is received and contents noted. I am writing to Mr. Jas. J. Hannahan, Secretary, International Union of Steam Engineers, in regard to his local union at Fremont becoming affiliated with the Central Labor Union. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.120 [*COPIED MAR 30 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. James McGraw, 319 Market Street, South Williamsport, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 26th instant is received, in which you ask me to help locate your son, Ellwood McGraw. I am writing to Mr. John E. Bray, of the Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' International Alliance, 325 Nelson Building, Kansas City, Mo., asking him if he can locate him in any of his local unions. Upon receipt of a reply from him I will write you further. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.121 COPIED. MARCH 30 1911 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. John E. Bray, Secretary, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' International Alliance, 325 Nelson Building, Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter under date of March 25th, from Mr. James McGraw, 319 Market Street, South Williamsport, Pa., as follows: "Would kindly ask you to help me locate my boy, Ellwood McGraw. He belongs to the Steel Lathers Union in New York in year 1908. Have heard of him being in Boston, Mass., on January, 1911. I would be very thankful to you if I could locate him so that I could write to him because he is the only child I have and I am up in years and not well any more. If you can locate him please write to me." Kindly let me know if you can locate him, and I will write the father accordingly. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.122 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 LF March 30, 1911 NO. 31 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: The official minutes of January, 1911 meeting of the Executive Council show the following: "After disposing of the hearing on the question of single wrapping, President Lynch stated he desired to appear before the Executive Council in company with President Freel of the International Stereotypers' and Electrotypers' Union of North America relative to the matter of the Federation issuing charters to employes of newspaper offices not now covered by the five international organizations of the printing trades, and joint request was made of the officers of the American Federation of Labor to refrain from issuing charters to newsboys, newspaper writers, newspaper solicitors, mail deliverers and newspaper carriers until the joint conference of the Printing Trades organizations had an opportunity to discuss the matter at their next meeting in March, 1911." In due course of time this matter was taken up with President Lynch of the International Typographical Union. Under date of March 25th, Secretary Hays on behalf of the Joint Conference Board of the Allied Printing Trades Council, submits report as to the action taken by that Board at its recent meeting. Copy of Secretary Hays' letter is enclosed herein. You will note therefrom that the International Typographical Union will assume jurisdiction and issue charters to unions of newswriters. I have officially advised Treasurer Miller123 E. C. -2 of the German Journalists Union of New York and vicinity, whose application for charter has been pending before the Executive Council for quite sometime, that he should again make formal application for charter to the International Typographical Union. You will further note the protest against the issuance of charter by the A. F. of L. to unions of Newsboys, of Carriers of Newspaper Solicitors, Printer Roller Makers, etc. etc. The matter is submitted to you for your information, and consideration pending our next meeting, when the entire subject will be scheduled for further consideration, final decision and action. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.124 COPY. INTERNATIONAL TYPOGRAPHICAL UNION. Indianapolis, Indiana, March 25, 1911. Samuel Gompers, President A. F. of L., 801-809 "G" St., N. W., Washington. D. C. My dear Mr. Gompers: At a meeting of the Joint Conference Board of the Allied Printing Trades Councils, which was succeeded at the last meeting by what is to known as the International Allied Printing Trades Association, consideration was given to you communication of the 2nd int. referring to the chartering by the American Federation of Labor of newsboys, newspaper writers, newspaper solicitors, mail deliverers and newspaper carriers. At this meeting the action of President Lynch, of the International Typographical Union, and President Freel, of the International Stereotypers' and Electrotypers' Union in the position they took before a meeting of the executive council of the American Federation of Labor was endorsed. In addition to this, the board adopted the following report of a committee appointed to draft a proposition for submission to your executive council: "At a meeting of the Joint Conference Board held on Monday, March 6, President James. J. Freel, of the International Stereotypers' and Electrotypers' Union, reported the details of a statement they made to a meeting of the executive counil of the American Federation of Labor, held in Washington, D. C., the week of January 16, 1911. In effect that statement was as follows: That Presidents Freel and Lynch had protested against the American Federation of Labor chartering unions of workers associated with the printing industry, such as newsboys' and carriers' unions, 125 -2- solicitors' unions, printers' roller-maker unions, newswriters' unions, etc.; that the presidents aforesaid had requested that the entire subject should be referred to the next meeting of the Joint Conference Board of the allied printing trades, to consider the advisability of chartering these unions, and if they are to be chartered to make recommendations to the American Federation of Labor executive council as to the workers that should be chartered and as to those to which charter should not be issued, and also up to the particular international unions of the printing trades which should have jurisdiction over unions that are to be chartered. The Joint Conference Board endorsed the statement that had been made to the American Federation of Labor executive council by Presidents' Freel and Lynch, and then referred the entire subject to a committee composed of President Lynch, of the International Typographical Union; President Freel, of the International Stereotypers' and Electrotypers' Union; and Secretary-Treasurer Crowley, of the International Printing Pressman and Assistants' Union, to make report and recommendations. Your committee recommends: "That our board of governors protest to the American Federation of Labor executive council against the further chartering of newsboys' and carriers' and newspaper solicitors' unions on the ground that the chartering of such unions is of no value to the trade-union movement, and, as to newsboys and carriers, only tends to complicate local situations and endanger the organizations of adult labor that are in existence and have established fair conditions. Wherever newspaper solicitors' unions have been organized they have been only temporary and in every instance have shifted their burdens to the shoulders of the stable and permanant organizations, and have thereby jeopardized contracts and conditions established under these contracts. "As to the newswriters, typefounders and printers' roller-makers, the International Typographical Union will assume jurisdiction and charter unions of newswriters and typefounders, and the International Printing Pressmen and Assistants' Union will charter unions of roller makers. Where application is made for charters for unions of workers at avocations other than those specified, the board of governors asks that these applications shall be referred to our board for consideration and disposition." It is believed that this will explain to the executive council of the American Federation of Labor the position of the printing crafts as regards the organizing of people working about printing plants who have not in the past been affiliated with any of the regular International unions It is also believed that this will cover the points which you referred to the Joint Conference Board126 -3- some time since through an action of the last convention of the Federation of Labor. This referred to an organization roller- makes in Chicago, I believe. Trusting that the position of the Allied Trades Association will set with the approval of the officers and executive council of the American Federation of Labor, I remain Fraternally yours (Signed) J. W. Hays.127 [*COPIED. MAR 30, 1911*] Z March 30, 1911. Mr. John Whitehead, Secretary, District Council of Philadelphia, Pa., United Textile Workers of America, 721 E. Madison St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that Special Organizer H. L. Eichelberger is now in Philadelphia, located at the Brill Hotel. I have today written to him sending him a copy of your letter and would suggest that you get in touch with him regarding the matters concerning which you write. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.128 [*COPIED MAR 30 1911*] Z Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will find a copy of a letter just received from Mr. John Whitehead, Secretary of the District Council of Philadelphia, United Textile Workers of America. This letter is self-explanatory. I have advised Mr. Whitehead that you were at present in Philadelphia and that a copy of his communication has been forwarded to you. No doubt he will write you direct. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.129 COPY. DISTRICT COUNCIL OF PHILADELPHIA, PENNA. United Textile Workers of America. Philadelphia, March 29, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Dear Sir: Is there any way I could learn when an organizer of the A. F. of L. is coming to Philadelphia? Or - - - when an organizer is in Philadelphia for the purpose of organization. Having been unable to attend several meetings of non-union strikers where I believe local unions could have been established and volunteers being incapable or insufficient in number. It would be of some assistance could we have the aid of experienced organizers on such occasions. Hoping to hear from you, thank you for same, Truly, (Signed) John Whitehead, Sec'y. 721 E. Madison St., Phila., Pa. 130 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 X March 30, 1911. Mr. A. Roehri, Jr., Secretary, Mineral Water Bottlers' Union No. 11317, 62 Valley St., Orange, New Jersey. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 28th instant has been duly received, with which you enclose a copy of the agreement you intent to present to your employers, showing the changes made from the agreement entered into last year. Will you please send me at your earliest convenience, twelve copies of this agreement in order that I may submit same to my colleagues of the Executive Council for approval. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.131 COPIED MAR 30 1911 M March 29, 1911 Mr. Santiago Iglesias, Organizer, 11 Allen St., San Juan, P. R. Dear Sir and Brother: I enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have just received from Tobacco Strippers Union No. 18571, of Caguas, P. R., in which you will note they have declared a strike, the demand being an increase in wages. Before taking action in the matter I would like to hear from you in regard to same. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.132 COPY TOBACCO STRIPPERS UNION NO 12571. CAGUAS, P. R. March 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, New York, Esteemed Sir and Brother: We, the undersigned of this document and legal officers of the Tobacco Strippers Union No. 12571, of Caguas, P. R. in accordance with Article XIII of the American Federation of Labor constitution, wish to submit to you the following for your consideration. On the 7th day of this month the tobacco workers declared a strike which affected the four largest factories of this locality. The reason of the strike call is due to a petition offered by our brothers of the trade for an increase in wages. Several members of Union No. 12571 were then employed in these factories, and the number of tobacco strippers involved in this movement is 75, of which ten are organized and only 6 are entitled to receive the benefits granted by the constitution as stated in Article 13. The purpose for which the strike was declared was for an increase in wages, better sanitary conditions, and for other reasons of great importance. This report is submitted to you for your consideration with the firm belief that you will give it your approbation, together with the Executive Council, as our claim is based on justice and its acceptance will contribute greatly to bring confidence among the members of this union and labor organization in general.133 -2- Hoping to receive from you shortly, we remain, Fraternally Tomasa Algarin President Victoria Correa, Financial Sec. Number of members in good standing: Name Index Initiated Carmen Vergara 79 May 1908 Roman Pena 95 Aug. 1909 Tomasa Algarrin 95 Oct. 1908 Josef Zayas 91 July 1909 Julia Rosa 93 Oct. 1909 Maria M. Rodriguez 25 Sept. 1907 Adress of writer Victoria Correa, Box 131, Caguas, P. R.134 COPIED MAR 30 1911 M March 30, 1911. Mr. M. H. Douglass, Librarian, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, Dear Sir: Your card of the 24th instant received, and I enclose to you herein index to Volume XVII, in compliance with your request. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.135 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 M March 30, 1911. Mr. Santiago Iglesias, Organizer, 11 Allen St., San Juan, P. R. Dear Sir and Brother: A letter has been received at this office from Banders Protective Union No. 12869, Caguas, P. R., and of which I enclose copy to you herein. Kindly give this matter your prompt attention, and let me hear from you at your earliest convenience in regard thereto. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.136 COPY Banders Protective Union No. 12869. Caguas, P. R. March 16, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: We The undersigned, the legal officers of the "Amlladoras" Protective Union No. 12669, of Caguas, P. H., in accordance with Article 13 of the American Federation of Labor constitution, wish to submit the following case: On the seventh day of this month a strike was declared for an increase in wages in four tobacco factories of this locality, where was employed many union brothers of this local. On account of this strike some 20 "Amlladoras" were involved in it, of which 8 were organized, and of these 8 only 6 are entitled to receive benefits granted by the Constitution as mentioned in Article XIII. The Tobacco Workers strike had for object an increase in salary, better sanitary conditions, more respect and consideration to employes, and for other reasons more or less importance. The approval of this petition on by you and the Executive Council will be in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, and at the same time have the proper effect upon the slanderers of this locality and the most soothing object lesson of unionism in our membership. With best wishes to you, we remain, Fraternally yours, Guiana Algorri, President Maria Sanchez, Secretary.137 NAMES INDEX DATE OF INITIATION Jesus Rios 5 January 1910 Ana Jiminez 1 " " Irenis Sanchez 5 " " Maria Sanchez 6 " " Maria Rivesa 8 " " Domingo Reyes 10 " " This is an exact report of the members in good standing. Address of writer Maria Sanchez 30 Radial St.138 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 M March 30, 1911. Mr. Maria Sanchez, Secretary, Banders Protective Union No. 12869, 30 Padial St., Caguas, P. R. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I have referred the matter to our official representative in Porto Rico, Organizer Santiago Iglesias, with a request that he give it his immediate attention. You will no doubt hear from him at an early date. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*139*] [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] M March 29, 1911. Mr. Victoria Correa, Secretary, Tobacco Strippers Union No. 12571, Box 131, Caguas, P. R. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of present date received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I have referred the matter to our official representative in Porto Rico, Organizer Santiago Iglesias, sending him copy of your communication, and requesting him to [advise] me in regard thereto, so that further action may be taken by t[h]is office. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.140 [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] LP March 30, 1911 Mr. Gus Miller, Treasurer German Journalists Union of New York and Vicinity, 84 Knickerbocker Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir: In continuation of my letter to you of March 8th, in regard to the conference of the representatives of the Printing Trades organizations, etc., I beg to say that Mr. J. W. Hays, on behalf of the Joint Conference Board of the Allied Printing Trades Council has just written me under date of March 25, officially advising me of the action taken by the Joint Conference Board as regards the matter of charter application of News Writers, Printer Roller Makers, etc., as follows: "As to newswriters, typefounders and printers' roller-makers, the International Typographical Union will assume jurisdiction and charter unions of newswriters and typefounders, and charter unions of roller makers. Where application is made for charters for unions of workers at avocations other than those specified, the board of governors asks that these applications shall be referred to our board for consideration and disposition." I would therefore suggest that your union should again make formal application for charter to the International141 Mr. Gus Miller - - 2 Typographical Union, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.142 [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] LP March 29, 1911 When replying, kindly refer to Resolution #83 R. H. May & Co., Private Office, New York, N. Y. Gentlemen: Your favor of the 28th instant is received and contents noted. Inasmuch as I do not now anticipate going to New York for quite some time, and as Vice-President Mitchell left New York last night to be gone for quite some time, I have sent a copy of your letter to Mr. Hugh Frayne, and requested im to call upon your Mr. Straus. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.143 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 LF March 29, 1911 When replying, kindly refer to Resolution #83 Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to the matter of our recent conference with Mr. Percy S. Straus, representing R. H. Macy & Co., I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have just received from that Company. As I do not now anticipate going to New York for quite some little time, I would be glad to have you take up with Mr. Straus the matter referred to in the enclosed and make report to me as to the result of your conference with him, and at the same time such recommendations as seem to you may be warranted. Should you desire any of the correspondence in this case, please advise me, and it will be sent on to you. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor Enclosure:144 LP COPY. R. H. Macy & Co. Private Offices, New York, March 28, 1911 Dear Sir: We again refer to your favor of the 21st ultimo, receipt of which has been previously acknowledged by us. The delay in answering the questions you ask has been unavoidable, owing to the absence from the city of our Mr. Percy S. Straus, who is familiar with the matters to which you refer. He has had made a careful examination of our records in order to confirm or refute accurately the statements made in the affidavit submitted by you, and finds a great number of them inaccurate and misleading. If, on one of your visits to New York, you feel disposed to compare these statements with the facts as proven by our records, our Mr. Straus will be pleased to offer you every facility for so doing. If you prefer, this same courtesy will be gladly extended to either Mr. Mitchell or Mr. Frayne. Very truly yours, (Signed) R. H. Macy & Co. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres, American Federation of Labor 801 G. St., N. W., Washington, D. C.145 z. March 30, 1911. Copied Mar. 30, 1911 Mr. J.A. Tyche, Gen'l Secretary-Treasurer, International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union 11 Waverly Place, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favors of the 17th and 27th instants to Secretary Morrison came duly to hand and contents noted. He and I have been to Atlanta, Georgia, for the purpose of making arrangements for the November convention of the American Federation of Labor and the matter was therefore deferred until our return. He turned the letters over to me for answer. You say that a discussion has arisen as to the construction to be placed upon the provision in the constitution of your organization which reads as follows: "All decision of the L.U. of the G.E.B. shall be binding until reversed by the higher tribunal." You say that you would like to have the practice of the A.F. of L. upon this subject. In connection therewith let me say that there can be no division of opinion upon that constitution therewith let me say that there can be no division of opinion upon that constitutional provision. The decisions are binding and remain in force until reversed by any higher tribunal which may exist in your international Union. Now as to the practice of the A. F. of L., Let me say that on September 23, 1909, by direction of the Executive Council,146 Mr. J. A. Dyche--2--. Secretary Morrison communicated with the representatives of organized labor of Cleveland, Ohio, in which the information was given that the revocation of the charter of the Central Body of Cleveland was binding until reversed by a higher authority should that decision by reversed. Under date of July 15, 1910, in a communication to Secretary Brandt of the Wood, Wire and Metal Lathers' International Union, used the following language: The executive council directs me to advise you that its decision rendered in this case stands and that the notice of the appeal of you International Union to the St. Louis convention cannot [at? paper fold] as a stay of the decision. You of course understand that the trade union movement is composed of workmen organized in their unions, that these unions are well as the International Unions, as is also the American Federation of Labor, are purely voluntary associations; that there is no power which can enforce discipline except the discipline voluntarily assumed by the organized labor movement. It is, therefore all the more essential that when the properly constituted authorities in the labor movement render a decision it must of necessity be and remain in force until reversed by the duly constituted higher authority in the labor movement. I have given you not alone the expression of my opinion but the practice as it obtains in the American Federation of Labor. With best Wishes, I am Fraternally yours, [signature, Samuel Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.March 30, 1911. Mr. M. H. Page, President, Central Labor Council, Globe, Arizona. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant is received, in which you state the Central Labor Council recommends the appointment of Fran E. Boyd a volunteer organizer for Globe and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Bye 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, President American Federation of Labor.148 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 M March 30, 1911. Mr. J. T. Kinsella, President, Int'l Assn. of Steam, Hot Water and Power Pipe Fitters and Helpers, Room 205 Merrick Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant is received, and in compliance with your request, I am sending you under separate cover commission as general volunteer organizer for the United States; also package of literature and documents which I think you will find of assistance. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.149 M. March 30, 1911. Copied Mar 30 1911 Mr. Frank B. Hewett, Box 92, Sheffield, Pa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 28th instant is at hand, in which you request me to furnish you the names of the labor men in Congress. They are as follows: W. B. Wilson, Blossburg, Pa. Miner Democrat Robert E. Lee, Pottsville, Pa. Blacksmith Democrat Jon A. Martin, Pueblo, Col. Fireman Democrat Wm J. Cary, Milwaukee, Wis Telegrapher Republican Victor L.Berger, Milwaukee, Wis. Printer, Socialist Frank Buchanan, Chicago, Ill. Iron Worker, Democrat James T. McDermott, Chicago, Ill. Telegrapher, Democrat Chas. B. Smith, Buffalo, N. Y. Telegrapher, Democrat Henry George, New York City Printer, Democrat Thos. S. Reilly, Meriden, Conn. Printer, Democrat Carl C. Anderson, Fostoria, Ohio, Musician, Democrat Isaac H. Sherwood, Toledo, Ohio, Printer, Democrat D. Mc Gillicuddy, Lewiston, Maine Democrat J. Campbell Cantrill, Georgetown, Ky. Farmer, Democrat E. Roberts, Carson City, Nev. Miner, Republican John R. Farr, Scranton, Pa. Printer, Republican James P. Maher, Brooklyn, N.Y. Hatter, Democrat Very truly yours, [Signature, Samuel Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.150 I. March 30, 1911 Copied Mar. 30 1911 Mr. Frank H. McCarthy, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 99 Union Park Street, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which I have just written to the Boston Chamber of Commerce, and which is self-explanatory. I am sending the enclosed to you for your information and to request that you make such investigation as you can in regard to this alleged Railroad Employees Magazine and that you will advise me in regard thereto as soon as you can conveniently do so. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.151 X. March 29, 1911 Copied Mar 30, 1911 Mr. J. A. Meisenback, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 717 Peoria Street, Peru, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 26th instant is received. You enclose sample of the label which you say is used upon what is supposed to be union made boxes. You further say that this was handed to you by a local cigar manufacturer and that you were requested to take the matter up with me and endeavor to ascertain if there is such an organization as the box makers affiliated with the A. F. of L. I beg to say that the Box Makers and Sawyers' International Union is not affiliated with the A. F. of L. This organization has made application for charter, but protest was entered by the Wood Workers' International Union. Only a matter of a week or ten days ago I again wrote to the Secretary of the Wood Workers in Regard to the matter, as the Box Makers and Sawyers' International Union had again written me urging their desire to become part of the organized labor movement of the country under the banner of the A. F. of L. I hope that circumstances may so adjust themselves as will in the course of time enable us to issue a charter to the Box Makers and Sawyers', or to make arrangements whereby they may become part of the Wood Workers' International Union. In view of your letter, I am again writing to Secretary152 Mr. J. Al. Meisenbach -2- Meiler of the Wood Workers in regard to the matter and am also requesting him to give me the names and addresses of box manufacturers who use a union label and who manufacture cigar boxes. I would suggest that you write me again in the course of ten days or two weeks in regard to the matter, when I may be able to give you more definite information. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.153 COPIED. MAR 30 1911 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. J. Meiler, Secretary, Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union, 3538 North Albany Avenue, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of a few days ago in regard to the Box Makers and Sawyers' International Union becoming part of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to say that under date of March 26th, Organizer J. Al. Meisenbach, or Operu, Illinois, 'Enclosed please find sample of supposed Union Label of the Box Makers. The same was handed to me by a local cigar manufacturer who has been buying boxes with this stamp upon them for some time. Recently a traveling man told him that it was not a genuine stamp -- that it was a counterfeit and a stamp used only by the bosses who manufactured the boxes. I was directed to take the matter up with you in an endeavor to ascertain if there is such an organization known as the Box Makers affiliated with the A. F. of L. If so, I fail to find it in the directory. Kindly enlighten me on this point, as you being interested in the cigar industry, you, perhaps, could inform me where to purchase Union-made and stamped cigar boxes." For your information I enclose herein a duplicate copy of my reply to Mr. Meisenbach which I ask you to consider in connection with his letter to me as above quoted. I would appreciate it very much if you would kindly let me hear from you in regard to the above matter, and at the same time if you will give me a list of the box manufacturers using the union label and manufacturing cigar boxes.[*154*] [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] Mr. J. Meiler -2- Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, [*Sam Gompers*] President, American Federation of Labor. X. March 29, 1911. Mr. J. Meiler, Secretary, Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union, 3538 North Albany Avenue, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of a few days ago in regard to the Box Makers and Sawyers' International Union becoming part of the American Federation of Labor, I beg to say that under date of March 26th, Organizer J. Al. Meisenbach, or OPeru, Illinois, writes me as follows: Enclosed please find sample of supposed Union Label of the Box Makers. The same was handed to me by a local cigar manufacturer who has been buying boxes with this stamp upon them for some time. Recently a traveling man told him that it was not a genuine stamp--that it was a counterfeit and a stamp used only by the bosses who manufactured the boxes. I was directed to take the matter up with you in an endeavor to ascertain if there is such an organization known as the Box Makers affiliated with the A. F. of L. If so, I fail to find it in the directory. Kindly enlighten me on this point, as you being interested in the cigar industry, you, perhaps, could inform me where to purchase Union-made and stamped cigar boxes." For your information I enclose herein a duplicate copy of my reply to Mr. Meisenbach which I ask you to consider in connection with his letter to me as above quoted. I would appreciate it very much if you would kindly let me hear from you in regard to the above matter, and at the same time if you will give me a list of the box manufacturers using the union label and manufacturing cigar boxes.155 Copied Mar 30 1911 X. March 29, 1911. Mr. Charles D. Seals, 412 Penn Avenue Pittsburg, Pa. My dear Mr. Seals: I was glad to get your letter of March the 26th and to know that you are now permanently employed. I wish you ever success. No, I do not expect to go to Pittsburg for next Sunday. As a matter of fact, I have only just returned from a trip to Atlanta and it will be impossible for me to leave headquarters just now to go to Pittsburg or elsewhere. In all probability Vice-President John Mitchell may be able to address the meeting in Pittsburg on Sunday afternoon, and I have written Organizer Flynn in regard thereto. I thank you for your kindly reference to my family. Mrs. Gompers has been quite ill for the last six weeks, but now is able to sit up a little and I hope she will speedily regain her health and strength. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you from time to time, I am Fraternally Yours, President, American Federation of Labor.156 [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. R. F. Eastman, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 432 Fremont Street, Olympia, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22d. instant received and contents noted. You recommend that a commission as volunteer organizer should be issued to Robert Frick, who you say is a valuable member of the Committee on Organization. I presume you refer to the Committee on Organization of the Olympic Central Labor Union. Now, let me suggest that you have your recommendation endorsed, or the recommendation made by the Olympia Central Labor Union for a commission to be issued to Mr. Frick as volunteer organizer for Olympia and vicinity. It will be given immediate attention. Or if you refer to the commission being issued as volunteer organizer for the State of Washington, if you will have the recommendation made by the Washington State Federation of Labor, I will be glad to issue a commission in conformity therewith. You understand, of course, that this is the procedure always followed in such cases, and therefore makes the Central Labor Union of the State Federation of Labor partly responsible for the appointment of any volunteer organizer, and further, insures their co-operation in the work. I was very much interested in the report you make of the organization of the several local unions of different trades.157 Mr. R. E. Eastman -2- I am sure the national organization represented will be greatly gratified. I received today copy of printed report from the State Federation of Labor of the legislative work accomplished during the recent session of the State Legislature. I would like you to send me several additional copies in an envelope marked personal. Hoping to hear from you again at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.158 [*COPIED. MAR 30 1911*] X. March 29, 1911. Mr. W. L. Peebles, Representative, Sub-local #1, Local #1, Int'l. Brotherhood Electrical Workers, Wellington Hotel, St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Vice-President H. B. Perham has referred to me your letter to him of March the 25th, in which you request advice as to whether the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. has rendered any decision upon the question of the disputed point of jurisdiction between the Theatrical Stage Employes' International Alliance and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. In regard to the general subject matter of jurisdiction over moving picture machine operators, I beg to advise you that the seventeenth annual convention of the American Federation of Labor held at Nashville, Tennessee, 1897, decided that all work done back of the curtain is to be done under the jurisdiction of the Theatrical Stage Employes' International Alliance. This declaration of the Nashville Convention, however, did not include either engineers or firemen. Some claim arose between the Theatrical Stage Employes and the Brotherhood of Electrical Workers as to disputed points of jurisdiction. This matter, however, was referred to the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. to bring about an adjustment. By direction of the Executive Council I have participated in several con-159 Mr. W. L. Peebles -2- ferences between the representatives of the two organizations. as further directed by the St. Louis convention of the A. F. of L. held in November, 1910, I have been in correspondence with the executive officers of the two national organizations with the object in view of arranging another conference at a time mutually convenient. I have not yet been able to arrange the conference at a time convenient for both organizations, but I trust that I may succeed in making satisfactory arrangements in the very near future. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.160 [*COPIED. MAR 1911*] [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] Z March 31, 1911 [?] E. E. Greenawalt, President, Pennsylvania Federation of Labor, 203 Keystone Bailing, Lancaster, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th instant received and I have read the letter written to you by Mr. Diehl, Secretary of the Sub-District No 3, United Mine Workers of America, of Lilly, Pa., and as per your request I return it herewith, having retained a copy for our files. I have sent a copy of it also to Organizer Flynn at Pittsburg, requesting him to go down to Patton and see what can be done to help out the silk mill employees there. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.161 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] Z March 31, 1911. Mr. Carl Kelsey, Secretary, American Academy of Political and Social Science, West Philadelphia Station, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Replying to yours of the 28th, I am as yet unable to say definitely whether I can attend the meeting of the Academy on the 7th and 8th of April. I shall certainly endeavor to do so but it is impossible for me to say now definitely. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.162 MAR 31 1911 March 31, 1911. Z Mr. Thomas H. Flynn, Organizer, 20 Maple Terrace Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find copy of a letter from President Greenawalt of the Pennsylvania State Federation of Labor, to- gether with a copy of a letter written him by Mr. Jere Diehl, Secretary of Sub-District No. 3, United Mine Workers of America, Lilly, Pa. Patton, I understand, is but a matter of seventy-five or a hundred miles from Pittsburg and I would therefore like to have you go there as soon as you can conveniently do so, look over the ground and see what can be done in behalf of the silk mill workers, reporting to me. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.163 COPY. PENNSYLVANIA FEDERATION OF LABOR. Lancaster, Pa., March 25, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President. American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Herewith a letter that is self-explanatory. It came here while I was away from home, hence the delay in action. I have written Brother Diehl to the effect that our Pennsylvania Federation of Labor is not in a position financially to send an organizer to help these people, and that I am forwarding his letter to you. Kindly do what you can for them and oblige, Yours fraternally, (Signed) E.E. Greenawalt President, Pennsylvania Federation of Labor.164 COPY. SUB-DISTRICT NO. 3, UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. Lilly, Pa., March 17th, 1911. Mr. E.E. Greenawalt, Hamsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: I received a phone message from Patton, Pa., last evening informing me of a strike in that town, by the silk mill employees, about one hundred of them; the strike as I understand originated from some grievance, and it appears the mill workers wish to be organized into the textile workers union. They would like to have a State Federation organizer visit them as soon as possible, and organize a local union there. They seem to be very much in earnest and I believe this will be a good opportunity to organize that mill. Patton is an enterprising little town situated on the Gresson branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad with a population of about six thousand. All other labor is organized there, the United Mine Workers' Local Union has a membership of about seven hundred. Hoping that arrangements can be made so that an office of the Textile Workers union can be in Patton in the very near future so that these people may be placed in a position, through organization, to demand their rights. I remain, Yours fraternally, (Signed) Jere Diehl P.S. Would be pleased to hear from you immediately as these workers are anxiously awaiting information. (Signed) J. D.COPIED. MAR 31 1911 COPIED. MAR 31 1911 Z March 31, 1911. Mr. J. W. Sullivan, 1937 Stillwell Avenue, Via Parkville Sub-Station, Route 686, Brooklyn, N. Y. My dear Mr. Sullivan: Mr. Gompers will appreciate it very much if you will kindly send him two or three copies of your pamphlet on Socialism. I had one copy here on my table for reference but let someone have it a few days ago, thinking that we had a full supply in the office. Very sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Pres. Gompers.166 [*COPIED. MAR 31*] M March 31, 1911. Mr. Charles H. Sheraton, Organizer, 314 West St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your report for the month of February has been received, and I note that you request us not to send any more blanks, as you are going South. Will you kindly furnish us your address where communications from this office may reach you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor[*167*] [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] M March 31, 1911. Mr. R. E. Hodges, Cedar Falls, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 24th instant is at hand, in which you request some material on the Canadian Industrial Disputes Act, and 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.168 [*COPIED. MAR 21 1911*] M March 31. 1911. Mr. A. M. Dunn, Business Manager, 311 East Fourth St., Los Angeles, Cal. Dear Sir: Your letter received and we will be pleased to place the California Outlook upon the exchange list of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, in compliance with your request. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.169 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] Mr. D. H. Olson, Red Wing Seminary, Red Wing, Minn. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 22nd instant is at hand, in which you request information and material on the "Closed Shop." You fail, however, to state which side of the question you are to deabte. Kindly advise me as to this. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 170 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] LF March 30, 1911 NO. 52 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAUGES: Your especial attention is called to the matter which follows and enclosures. The St. Louis Convention of the American Federation of Labor had before it copy of preambles and resolutions of which the enclosed, marked "A", is a copy. The committee reported as follows upon the resolution: "The committee recommended concurrence in the amended resolution. A motion was made and seconded that the recommendation of the committee be concurred in. The question was discussed by Delegate Howley. In reply to a question, Vice-President Perham, chairman of the committee said: 'This resolution provides that the entire matter in relation to this international union be investigated by the Executive Council. The committee concurs in that part of the report. That part of the report which refers to the label of the American Federation of Labor being placed upon the products of the mills has been left open and not concurred in by this committee on account of the clash that now exists as to the proper label to be placed on the products of those mills. That question also should be investigated by the Executive Council, and investigated on its merits.' The questions was further discussed by Delegate Russi, who explained at length the conditions under which the men in some of the locals still remaining in the International were working. He spoke in favor of concurring in the report of the committee. He also spoke in favor of taking the present label off the product of the flour and cereal mills and using the label of the American Federation of Labor. Delegate Kamper discussed the question at some length, stating that his organization, the Brewery Workers, was very much interested, as the breweries used various products of the flour and 171 E. C. --2 cereal mills and they wished to have this product made under union conditions. The motion to concur in the report of the committee was carried." As you will note, the Convention directed a certain course to be followed by the Executive Council at our last meeting, the matter of the revocation of the charter was referred to Secretary Morrison and the undersigned, first, to ascertain all the information possible. I forwarded a letter to Mr. Kellington, of which the enclosed is a copy marked "B". To this letter I received from Secretary Kellington a reply in which he gives the present status of the International Union. Copy of his letter is enclosed herein marked "C". From his letter it will be seen that if the jurisdiction members are included there are 399 members in good standing in the International Union of Flour and Cereal mill Employes. Having received the names and addresses of the local unions from Secretary Kellington, I addressed a letter to these locals for the purpose of having his figures verified. I received 11 replies, showing a total membership of 189. There are surely in a rough estimate over 100,000 flour and cereal mill workers in the United States. Your attention is called to the fact that Secretary Kellington had failed to keep the organization in good standing, and it was only after Secretary Morrison had called his attention to the fact that resolution had been received at headquarters stating that they could not secure any information from him, that the 172 E. C. --3 organization was placed in good standing up to September 1910 and then on a very greatly reduced membership. On October, 1908, the membership was 800, and then reduced from January 1909, until December, 1909 to 475. For January, 1910 to October, 1910 they paid on 268 members. On February they paid for November, December, January and February on 358 members. A number of local unions have written that they can strengthen their membership if directly affiliated to the A. F. of L., but that confidence has been lost in the International Union as to its ability to perform any work in the interests of the members of the draft. An application for charter for a union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes, accompanied by the charter fee, is now being held at the office of the American Federation of Labor. At the meeting of the Executive Council in January the following decision was given: "On Resolution No. 49, directing the Executive Council to investigate the affairs of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes, and if conditions justified it to revoke the charter of the Internation Union and issue new charters to the remaining local unions direct with the American Federation of Labor, it was moved and adopted that the matter be referred to President Gompers and Secretary Morrison to carry the action of the Convention into effect with the power to revoke charter of the International and issue charters to the local unions of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes direct from the American Federation of Labor without cost." Although this power has been conferred upon us by the Convention and the Executive Council, we are disinclined to take action without direct and formal approval of the same by the Executive Council. We therefore recommend to the Executive Council the adoption of the following proposition:173 E.C. --4 RESOLVED, That the charter now held by the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes shall be withdrawn, that charter shall be issued by the A. F. of L. without charge to such local unions which are part of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes, and that this privilege shall hold good for 30 days after notification to these local unions. Please return your vote upon the above at your earliest possible convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.174 COPY. "A". "WHEREAS, The affairs of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes are in such bad condition that they need to be investigated, the international union having decreased in membership in the last six years from 21 votes to 3 votes in the convention of the A. F. of L., as the report of the secretary of the A. F. of L. will show; and WHEREAS, The financial condition of the International Union is so bad that notice has been sent to our local union that in case of trouble it can not pay strike or lockout benefits. (There is no international president, as the last one was expelled for non-payment of dues. There has not been a financial statement issued from headquarters for more than a year. Our local union has not received a communication nor answers to its letters from headquarters except receipts for money sent in payment of per capita tax): and WHEREAS, The condition of the Internation Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes is so bad as to discourage the few remaining locals and cause them to disband, which would be avoided if attended to at once; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Executive Counsil of the A. F. of L. be instructed to investigate the affairs of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes; and be it further RESOLVED, That if conditions are found to be in bad shape, have the secretary of the A. F. of L. revoke the charter of the international, and have the charters of the remaining few locals unions transferred back to the A. F. of L. and issue new charters as Federal Labor Unions.175 COPY. B Washington, D. C., Feb. 10, 1911 WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #49. Mr. A. R. Kellington, Secretary International Union of Labor and Cereal Mill Employes. 316 Corn Exchange, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting held in this city January 16-27, had under consideration the subject matter of Resolution #49 of the St. Louis convention of the A. F. of L., introduced by the delegate from the San Antonio Trades Council, approved by the convention and reading as follows: "WHEREAS, The affairs of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes are in such bad condition that they need to be investigated, the international union having decreased in membership in the last six years from 81 votes to 3 votes in the convention of the A. F. of L., as the report of the secretary of the A. F. of L. will show; and WHEREAS, The financial condition of the international union is so bad that notice has been sent to our local union that in case of trouble it can not pay strike or lockout benefits. There is no International president, as the last one was expelled for non-payment of dues. (There has not been a financial statement issued from headquarters for more than a year. Our local union has not received a communication nor answers to its letters from headquarters except receipts for money sent in payment or per capita tax); and WHEREAS, The condition of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes is so bad as to discourage the few remaining locals and cause them to disband, which could be avoided if attended to at once; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. be instructed to investigate the affairs of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes; and be it further RESOLVED, That if conditions are found to be in bad shape, have the secretary of the A. F. of L. revoke the charter of the International, and have the charters of the remaining few local 176 Mr. A. E. [?ellington] --2 unions transferred back to the A. F. of L. and issue new charters as Federal Labor Unions. The Executive Council referred this matter to Secretary Morrison and the undersigned to carry into effect the action of the convention, and if upon investigation it be found advisable and to the best interests of the trade, as well as the labor movement in general, to make arrangements whereby the local unions of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes will become directly affiliated to the A. F. of L. to issue such charters without cost to such locals. I am therefore writing to request that you give me at you earliest convenience a list of the unions now affiliated to your international, the names and addresses of their respective secretaries, and the membership represented by each. Trusting that you will give this matter your prompt attention and reply, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 177 COPY. "C" INTERNATIONAL UNION OF FLOUR AND CEREAL MILL EMPLOYEES. February 21, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I have yours of Feb. 10th and I have carefully noted contents of same. In reply permit me to say that I am as per you r request sending herewith a list of Secretaries of our local unions together with their addresses. I cannot, however, help entering a protest as to the Resolution #49 as passed by the St. Louis Convention, as it originated from a politician in San Antonio, and one who, I understand has not been a mill worker for years, but has used the union of his craft to further his own political interests. This I have in writing from former members of this San Antionio local. It was ordered by a majority vote that he take a retiring card, but he having a friend in the chair, claimed it took a two-thirds vote to carry. I have no an application for a charter signed by some 26 former members of the Local mentioned who withdrew leaving only 16 members who seem to stand by the politician. It is true that we have decreased in membership as a whole, but this is much due to the strike in Minneapolis where seventeen hundred of our members were involved. The firms here now have nearly all of the men scared so that they scarcely dare say their [*178*] S. G. --3 lives are their own. There is, however, a chance of getting them organized again and that is what we are trying to do at this time. We went bake after the strike and have been struggling along ever since and are just now in a position where the receipts are more than paying present running expenses and at the same time paying some of our debts. If we are allowed to continue, I believe we will still come out with an organization that will some day be credit to our trade and the American Federation of Labor. It would seem now that this man Rossi has come to the conclusion that if cannot rule the flour mill employee of San Antonio, he will make an effort to ruin. Wishing you every success, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) A. E. Kellington Int. Sec. Treas.[*179*] COPY. LIST OF LOCALS. Local #1 40 members A. E. Kellington, 4210 Hiawatha Ave. Minneapolis, Minn. Local #3, 13 members W. H. Robers, Brooklyn, N. Y. Local # 11, 9 members H. R. Baldwin, Youngstown, Ohio Local #21, 21 members A. T. Rainey, Faribault, Minn. Local #35 15 members Carl Woolcott Harrisburg, Ill. Local #39, 29 members 1810 Green Bay Str. La Crosse, Wis. Local #44, 9 members Albert Sladky, De Pere, Wis. Local #49, 12 members J. Kelly, Hastings, Minn. Local #51 8 members Chas. Naney Petersburg, Ind. Local #58, 7 members E. Miller Du Quoin, Ill. Local #59 7 members C. T. Johnson, Chetek, Wis. Local #60 14 members Ben Amann O'Fallon, Ill. Local #61, 13 members W. C. Eaton, Pinckneyville, Ill. Local #62, 14 members H. A. Norton Fort Scott, Kas. Local #69, 8 members W. H. Lill 313 SO. 2nd Str.West Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Local #70, 14 members John Berthoux Trenton, Ill. Local #71 20 members John Scheidinger 1802 7th Ave. S.E. St. Cloud, Minn. Local #72, 16 members Chas. Groos, 1917 Monterey St. San Antonio, Texas Local #77 7 members G. F. Hills Anthony Kansas Local #80 15 members J. Ramirez 202 Labor Temple Los Angeles, Cal.180 -2- [*COPIED MAR 31 1911*] Local #31 7 members Chas. Thurgood, Vincennes, Ind. Local #34 7 members Everett Wells Harper, Kas. Local #93 7 members J. Champion New Athens, Ill. Local #94 8 members R. Fairbrother Lethbridge, Alberta, Can Local #95, 7 members A. B. Wallace Girard, Kas Local #96, 7 members O. G. Plumlee Mulkeytown, Ill. Local #100 7 members F. C. Ettling, Freeburg Ill Local #103 12 members W. G. Eifler Booneville, Ind. (With 39 jurisdiction members) 181 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] Z March 31, 1911. Mr. G. O. Morris, Organizer, P. O. Box 180, Blue Rapids, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: As requested in your favor of the 28th instant, I am sending to you under separate cover a package of the letter heads used by the organizers of the A. F. of L. These are furnished free. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.182 [*COPIED. Mar 31, 1911*] LF Washington, D.C., March 31, 1911 Mr. J. W. Kline, 570 Monon Bldg., Chicago Ill Telegram received. Secretary Mavell requested conference latter part of April. Have been trying to arrange it but thus far unsuccessful. Will write you soon as arrangements can be made. Samuel Gompers President, A. F. of L. (Charge to A. F. of L.)183 M March 31, 1911. Hon. Albert J. Beveridge, c/o Consul-General of the United States, Ottawa, Canada. [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] Dear Senator: As per your request you will find enclosed a general letter of introduction to the representative active men in the labor movement of Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec. I trust that you will have an interesting and pleasurable trip through Canada, and shall be glad to hear from you at your convenience. Very sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. P. S. Attached is a list of the names of the members to whom you should present your letter.[*184*] P. M. Draper, Secretary, Trades and Labor Congress Drawer 515, Ottawa, Canada. John A. Flett, Organizer, 195 Sherman Ave, South, Hamilton, Ontario. Alphonse Verville, Organizer, 2026 Sanguinet St., Montreal, Quebec. M. Walsh, Organizer, 1 St. James St., Quebec, Quebec. William Lodge, Secretary, Allied Trades and Labor Association, Box 51, Ottawa, Canada. G. H. Brunet, Secretary, Federated Trades Council, 301 St. Dominique St., Montreal, Canada Ed. Souchard, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, 392 St. John St., Quebec, Quebec.[*185*] M March 31, 1911. TO THE REPRESENTATIVE LABOR MEN IN CANADA: This will serve to introduce to you Ron, Albert J. Beveridge, former senator of the United States, from the State of Indiana. Senator Beveridge is having a trip through several provinces of Canada, for the purpose of investigating labor conditions as they prevail in the dominion. He will greatly appreciate any courtesy extended to him in his investigations, and I should be so reciprocate in any way within my power to a representative from Canada. Sincerely and fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED MAR 31 1911*]186 COPIED MARCH [??] 1911 March 30, 1911. X. Mr. John A. Dyche, Secretary International Ladies Garment Workers' Union, Room 41, 11 Waverly Place, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th instant to hand and contents noted. Regarding the invitation which you extend me to address a meeting at Cooper Union to organize the white goods workers of the City of New York, for the abolition of the terrible conditions under which they work and to secure for them improvements, I beg to say that either of the dates you mention would be about equally agreeable to me, that is, May 26th, or June Third. The difficulty is that I cannot now make engagements so far ahead. You know that it is expected that the Supreme Court of the United States will hand down its decision almost any Monday, and of course I cannot anticipate what that decision will be. If it were not for that, I could say offhand that I would be with you. Write me again in regard to the matter. I may be enabled to give you a definite answer in the course of a week or two. Thurs far I have not received a copy of this month's journal but shall read it as soon as it comes in. I am very glad to learn of the prosperous condition of your organization and sincerely hope that it may continue to grow in membership, in finances, and in spirits.187 Mr. John A Dyche -2- I was very glad to meet the members of your organization and am gratified to learn that their feeling toward me is one of kindly appreciation. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally Yours, President, American Federation of Labor.188 [*COPIED MAR 31 1911*] X. March 30, 1911. Miss Sue Hamilton Olsen, "The Woodley". Columbia Road, City. My dear Madam: Your favor of the 26th instant came duly to hand and contents noted. Replying I beg to say that if you will call at 2122 First Street, N. W., on Sunday, April second, about 1:45. I should be glad to see you. Though it be Sunday, I know I shall be busy up to that time, but we shall have the opportunity of going over any matter you may have in mind for half an hour. Very respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.189 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] X. March 30, 1911. Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th instant to hand and contents noted. In your report of March 24th you state that in accordance with the directions of my letter to you under date of March 8, Egg Inspectors' Union #11254, A. F. of L. held a meeting at which Mr. E. F. Ronenberg was removed from the office of Business Agent, and that at another meeting held by the union Tuesday, March 26, the former action of the union in removing Mr. Ronenberg from the position of Business Agent was rescinded and he was restored to that office. In view of the charges made against Business Agent Ronenburg, and in view of the conditions which threaten the very existence of the union, as well as injure the interests of the Egg Inspectors, you are hereby directed to call upon the officers of the union for the purpose of considering and acting upon the charges preferred by Brother Charles Schneeweiss against Business Agent E. F. Ronenberg. The constitution of the Egg Inspectors' Union #11254, A. F. of L., Article Five, Section One, provides: "Any elective officer may be impeached for a violation of his office or for an infringement of the provisions of the Constitution and By-Laws, and all charges preferred against him shall190 Mr. Hugh Frayne -2- be in writing and shall be referred to a Committee of Five selected by the Union, which committee shall inquire fully into the merits of the case, and report the same as early as possible to this Union for its decision. Should the Committee report unfavorably, the impeached Officer shall be entitled to a fair trial before being dismissed from office. During the impeachment and trial of such officer, he cannot occupy the chair nor assume the duties of his office. A temporary appointment must therefore be made by this Union to continue in force until the case is disposed of." In accordance with the section of the Constitution of the union quoted, when the changes had been read to the union the officer in question, that is, the Business Agent, cannot assume the duties of his office and the union will appoint some member in good standing of the union to act as Business Agent. You will give this matter your immediate attention and see to it that the Union pursues the course already stated and for the protection of the interests of the Egg Inspectors, as well as the good name, safety, and perpetuation of the union. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.191 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] X. March 30, 1911. Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Of course you will govern yourself according to the suggestions contained in the accompanying letter. In looking over the Constitution, I find the provisions as quoted in that letter and it may be that Mr. Ronenberg has had the advice of counsel and relies upon the fact that he was not given a trial as provided, but it is also true that the very fact that charges are preferred against him suspends him from office until the committee reports and the union acts. Should the committee report the charges well founded Mr. Ronenberg's suspension from office may be made permanent. Then again, your attention is called to Article 3, Section 4 of the Constitution, which provides as follows: "The Business Agent shall be elected the last meeting of April and installed the first meeting in May of each year". Thus the trial may not be ended very much before that time or the union's action may not be had much before the time, and in any event, in view of the present feeling and judgement of the members of the organization, when they are summoned to a meeting for the annual election, they will certainly be in a position to elect a man both competent and faithful.192 Mr. Hugh Frayne -2- I would suggest also that you would recommend to the union that it change its Constitution so that the election of Business agent will occur at the same time when the other officers of the organization are elected, that is, in the last meeting in December, and the last meeting in June of each year. Brother Morrison and I have gone over this matter jointly and the accompanying and this letter are the result of our joint advice. Please report to me whenever necessary upon this subject. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.193 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] Z March 31, 1911. Mr. A. J. Barres, Secretary, Metal Trades Department of the A. F. of L., Ouray Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to yours of the 29th instant, I regret to say that I am unable as yet to give you any definite promise as to placing an organizer in Boston in behalf of the Metal Trades, for all of the special organizers at present are so placed on assignments that it is impossible as yet to make any change. I hope to be able later on to take this matter up with you and to so arrange as to have one of the A. F. of L. organizers go to Boston in behalf of the Metal Trades. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American federation of Labor.194 [*COPIED MAR 31 1911*] Z March 31, 1911. Miss Elma M. Pace, 212 Blount St., Raleigh, N. C. Dear Madam: Your favor of the 27th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that there is no reason in the world why the stenographers and typewriters of Raleigh should not be organized into a union and become directly affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. There are already affiliated to the A. F. of L. the following organizations in this line of work: Stenographers, Bookkeepers, Clerks and Assitants' Union #11773, Miss Dagmar J. Nielsen, Secretary, 4309 8th Street, N. W., Washington, D. C. Bookkeepers and Assistants' Union #13092, Mr. Michael A. Graham, Secretary, 3350 Beach Ave., Chicago, Ill. Stenographers and Typists Association #12755 , Miss Mabel E. Dopson, Secretary, Room 39 - 92 La Salle St., Chicago. Stenographers, Typewriters, Bookkeepers and Assistants' Union #11597, B. E. Hinkle, Secretary, 642 Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Bookkeepers, Stenographers and Accountants' Union #12646, Miss Inez J. Gardner, Secretary, 43 East 22nd St., New York, N. Y. Let me suggest that you take up the matter of organizing the stenographers and typewriters with Mr. W. H. Singleton, Organized of the A. F. of L., 526 Oakwood Avenue, Raleigh, N. C.: or with Mr. E. L. Fesperman, Secretary, Central Labor Union,195 Miss Elma M. Pace ---2. Box 151, Raleigh; or with Mr. S. Waldrop, Secretary of the North Carolina State Federation of Labor, 41 Woodfin Street, Asheville, N. C. As you mark your letter personal and confidential I hesitate to write to either of these gentlemen direct, but if you will let me have a word from you further in regard thereto I shall be glad to correspond with them. I might add that I am now in correspondence with our official representative in Richmond, Va., and have no doubt but that in due course of time the stenographers and typewriters of that city will be organized, and affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. Hoping to hear from you further, I am Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.196 M March 31 1911. [*COPIED. March 31 1911*] Mr. M. F. Ryan, President, Brotherhood of Railway Carmen, 503 Hall Building, Kansas City, Missouri. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant received, in which you request that commission as volunteer organizer be issued to George A. Nolte. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Nolte as general volunteer organizer for the United States. 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 as the representative of the A. F. of L. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.197 M March 31, 1911. [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] Mr. George A. Nolta, 1801 Harrison Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: A letter has been received at this office from President N. F. Ryan, of the Brotherhood of Railroad Carmen, in which he recommends your appointment as volunteer organizer of the A. F. of L. It affords me pleasure to comply with this request and recommendation and commission will be issued and forwarded to you as general volunteer organizer for the United States. 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. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from your whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.198 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] M March 31, 1911. Mr. L. A. Barth, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Room 41 Talbott Block, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 21st instant to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state the Central Labor Union recommends the appointment of Joseph Hamley as volunteer organizer for Indianapolis and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Hamley in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to you 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.199 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] M March 31, 1911. Mr. Harvey Sparks, Secretary, Cigarmakers Local Unon No. 127, 1822 Western Ave., Mattoon, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant is at hand, in which you state Local No. 127 recommends the appointment of R. F. Craddick as volunteer organizer for Mattoon and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Craddock 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.200 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] M March 31, 1911. Mr. Thomas Lane, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, 1109 L. St., Atchinson, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 23rd instant is at hand, in which you state the Trades and Labor Council recommends the appointment of Samuel A. Cunningham as volunteer organizer for Atchison and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Cunningham 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. P. S. We have on our list as organizers for Atchinson A. L. Fleming and C. D. Monger. Kindly advise if [you] the Trades and Labor Council desires to continue them as organizers.[*201*] [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] M March 31, 1911. Mr. P. Hatch, Secretary, Central Labor Council, Walden, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state the Central Labor Union recommends the appointment of National Nutt as volunteer organizer for Walden and vicinity to succeed L. Wright. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Nutt 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.202 [*COPIED. MAR 31 1911*] Washington, D. C., March 31, xx 1911. Hon. Herbert S. Hadley, Governor of Missouri, Jefferson City, Missouri. Have seen copy of bill passed by Missouri Legislature and now before you awaiting your signature, providing limitation of nine hours per day for labor of women of the State. In the interest of humanity, for the sake of the women of our time and the people of the future I sincerely hope you may see your way clear to sign the bill and thus enact it into law. SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor (Charge A. F. of L.)203 COPIED. MAR 31 1911 Washn, D. C., March 31, 1911 Owen Miller, #3535 Pine Street, St. Louis, Missouri, Just telegraphed Governor Hadley as follows: "Have seen copy of bill passed by Missouri Legislature and now before you awaiting your signature, providing limitation of nine hours per day for labor of women of the State. In the interest of humanity, for the sake of the women of our time and the people of the future I sincerely hope you may see your way clear to sign the bill and thus enact it into law." SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor. (Charge A. F. of L.) 204 [*COPIED APR 1 1911*] Z March 31, 1911. Mr. John Mitchell, Vice-President, No. Claremont Avenue, Mr. Vernon, New York. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th instant to hand and contents noted. I have read the copy of your letter to the United Mine Workers' Journal and am as profoundly impressed with it as I was when you related the instances in our recent conversation. I am sure it will have the marked effect upon the rank and file of the Miners' Union as well as upon our fellow workers generally. It will reach others who are not in any way connected with the organized labor movement. It may be true that the story which you have told in your letter is not as strong as you would like to have made it but there are some things which you cannot find the heart to say because it hurts to point out not the seeming but the apparent and actual ingratitude of the Miners' Union but the balance of the story itself will carry conviction I am gratified that you not only have written the letter for publication in the Mine Workers' Journal but that you will draft other letters for successive issues. It is necessary that the story be told. The injustice which evil schemers have done you and not only you but the entire labor move-205 Mr. John Mitchell. --2. ment should be exposed. I presume you have seen that the same attempt has been made in regard to myself and will be in regard to other men. If we are all courageous enough, stand out and tell the story fully and candidly and let the whole world know that our actions have been properly and purely to defend, protect and promote the interests of the working people and to further the movement of labor [ ? ], we shall have done our fellow workers and our movement a great service. I welcome your contribution toward enlightenment of the workers upon this subject and shall look forward with keen interest to your future letters thereon. Many thanks for your solicitous inquiries and kindly expressions in regard to Mrs. Gompers and her health. I am glad to say that though still confined to her bed she is somewhat improved. The Doctor says it will be quite sometime before she will be able to be around. With kindest regards and best wishes to you and yours, I am Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. N.B. Please give me the address where mail or telegrams can reach you most direct after April 1st. S.G. 206 COPIED. APR 1 1911 Z March 31, 1911. Mr. R. M. Easley, Chairman, National Civic Federation, 1 Madison Ave., New York, N. Y. My dear Mr. Easley: Your favor of the 30th inst. with enclosures came duly to hand. I read them with the greatest of interest and assure you of my great appreciation of the views you express in your letter to Mr. Ernest H. Abbott of the "Outlook". I have not yet seen the statement by Mr. Taylor in which he declares that the destruction of the union would be the logical result of the success of his ideas. If Mr. Taylor employed that language anywhere I wish you would point it out to me. I think you are doing a good piece of work in having the other side looked into scientifically of this new mania misnamed "efficiency". I have not yet received the copy of the proceedings of the annual meeting of a few years ago. I suppose you have seen my article in the April issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST upon the subject of "The Miracles of 'Efficiency'". I think you will like. It is a fair contribution to the subject. Let me hear from you if you learn or 207 COPIED. APR 1 1911 Mr. R. M. Easley---2. COPIED. APR 1 1911 come across anything more upon this subject. With best wishes, I am Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.208 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] Z March 31, 1911. Mr. M. Sassenbach, c/o Mr. C. Loglen, Berlin S. O. 16, Engel ufer15, Berlin, Germany. Friend Sassenbach: Your favor of the 20th instant to hand and contents noted. I was glad to hear from you and hope you will write often. Complying with your request, I am sending you Nos. 1, 2 and 3 of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST for this year, and I am also sending you a copy of the official printed proceedings of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L., of 1910. In your letter you did not state which volumes you wanted Nos. 1, 2 and 3 of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST but I am taking the chance of sending you the numbers of this year. At the St. Louis Convention there were a number of delegates who approached me with the desire of nominating me for delegate from the A. F. of L. to the International Secretariat Conference at Budapest but I advised tham that I would not be a candidate and when the time came I nominated our First Vice-President, Mr. James Duncan, who was elected without a dissenting voice or vote.209 Mr. M. Sassenbach -- 2 I do hope that you will be at Budapest. I am sure you will find Mr. Duncan a most intelligent, conscientious and energetic workers as well as a great defender of the cause of the labor. The only disadvantage from which I think Mr. Duncan may suffer is the fact that he speaks the English language exclusively. It will not take him very long, however, to have a full understanding of the proceedings and the tread of events. I am sure you will like him. I am free to say to you that I should very much like to be able to be at Budapest and meet you, Legion, Baumeister and other friends whom I made during my European tour. I am afraid, however, that I shall not be able to make it. Indeed I am almost confident of that fact. You know that we are awaiting the decision of the United States Supreme Court as to the sentences of Frank Morrison, John Mitchell and myself. The Court heard the arguments of the counsel on both sides January 27-29 but reserved its decision and we are expecting it any day. We are much diappointed that the decision has been delayed. Mrs. Gompers has been confined to her bed for nearly two months suffering greatly. She heard the argument made before the Court and her apprehensions in regard to the results as they may affect me brought on a very severe illness. She has been delirious nearly half the time and during her delirious condition she imagines that I am suffering all sorts of tortures. She is somewhat improved this last day or two but it will be a long time before she will be herself again. If the Court's decision210 Mr. M. Sassenbach---3-- should be against us and she should learn it I am really afraid as to the consequences to her. My daughter is in excellent health. She and the wife an Mr. Sullivan join me in best wishes to you. I have not heard from our friend Legien in quite sometime. I wish you would show him this letter and remember me kindly to him and our other friends. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience and often, I am Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.211 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] Z April 1, 1911. Mr. Thomas H. Adams, Organizer, P. O. Box 773, Pheonix, Arizona. Dear Sir and Brother: Your undated favor received and contents noted. If you will refer to the list of organizations affiliated to the A. F. of L. which was furnished to you at the time your commission was issued you will note that the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners is one of the organizations in full affiliation with the A. F. of L. I am sure that Secretary Duffy will be glad to send you any data or printed matter you may desire. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.212 COPIED APR 1 1911 Z April 1, 1911. Mr. C. O. Young, Organizer, P. O. Box 709, Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 25th ultimo has been duly received. You say that you have requested President Case of the State Federation of Labor to send me copies of the several labor bills which passed the State Legislature. I have not yet received them but I presume they will come in due course of time, but it might be well if you would speak to him again as a reminder. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 213 COPIED APR 1 1911 COPIED COPIED APR 1 1911 APR 1 1911 M April 1, 1911. Hon. Choice B Randell, House of Representative, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 27th instant and under separate cover the copies of your several speeches. He has not yet had the time to look them over owing to the pressure of other matters, but he hopes to do so in the near future. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 214 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] M April 1, 1911. Mr. S. T. Morehouse, MacHaffie School, Springfield, Mass. Dear Sir: Replying to your request of recent date, I am sending to you under separate cover copy of a pamphlet on immigration recently published by this office. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.215 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] M April 1, 1911. Mr. F. R. Insley, Secretary, Clay Miners Union No. 9985, 513 West High St., Uhrichsville, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 29th is at hand and contents noted. I have already received a report from Organizer Wyatt, of the settlement of the matter, and am exceedingly glad to know that the entire matter has been satisfactorily adjusted. With best wishes for the success of your organization, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.216 [*COPIED. APR 1 191*] M April 1, 1911. Mr. W. A. Appleton, Secretary, General Federation of Trade Unions, 8 Adelphi Terrace, Adam Street, Strand, London, Eng. Dear Mr. Appleton: Your favor of the 18th instant received, and I thank you for your compliance with my several requests of recent date. Under separate cover I have the bound copy of your official report for 1902, in which appears my article about which I recently wrote you. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.217 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] M April 1, 1911. Mr. E. L. Mahan, Secretary, International Steel and Copper Plate Printers Union of N. A., 318 S St., N. R, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to organizing the Steel and Copper Plate Printers in England and Europe. Mr. Appleton of the General Federation of Trade Unions under date of March 18, writes me as follows: "I am sorry for the delay in sending you Information concerning the Steel and Copper Plate Printers. It has been difficult to obtain any information at all because they are practically unorganized in England, only a few of them being included in the Printing Trades Federation. These obtain the minimum weekly rates organizing in the districts in which they work. I have not yet been able to get details as to these rates but I hope to obtain them shortly and will forward the same on to you. You must please accept my apologies for the delay in answering your questions, but I have had the greatest difficulty in obtaining Information from the secretaries of Unions who might be interested; I think they felt rather ashamed of the fact that the Copper Plate Printers were not organized." If there is any further assistance which I can give you in this matter, please advise me. With best wishes and hoping to hear from your whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.218 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] M April 1, 1911. Mr. Jacob Tazelaar, c/o The Artisan, Holyoke, Massachusetts. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of the 14th instant, I beg to say that the President of the Central Labor Union of Brattleboro writes me that a mass meeting will be held in that city on April 17, You will, therefore, please hold yourself in readiness to visit Brattleboro on that date and attend that meeting. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.219 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] M April 1, 1911. Mr. Jon Long, Jr., President, Central Labor Union, Battleboro, Vermont. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of March 28, I beg to say that the Organizer Tazelaar has been instructed to hold himself in readiness to attend the meeting in Brattleboro on April 17. With best wishes for the success of the meeting, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 220 See page 202 for last page of letter COPIED April 1, 1911 I.F NO. 33 destroyed EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR COLLEAGUES: In view of the fact that the United States Supreme Court may at any time hand down its decision in regard to Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and the undersigned, and that we thereby will be deprived of the opportunity of visiting Atlanta for the purpose of making arrangements for the November Convention of the A. F. of L., Secretary Morrison and I planned to go to Atlanta early for the purpose of making these arrangements. Dr. Short, President of the Building Trades Department and Mr. Tracy, Secretary of the Union Label Trade Department also sent to Altanta [Atlanta] for the purpose of making arrangements for their respective conventions, which are to be held about the same time as that of the A. F. of L. We have secured the Auditorium and the annex for our respective conventions. The hall is commodious, light and pleasant and apparently has good acoustic properties. We have been promised to have the halls without any charge. Shortly we expect to have this in writing. Thus for the promise has been made to us orally by the Mayor of Atlanta, as well as the representative labor movement of that city. There are a number of commodius hotels upon which we[*221*] [*see page 222 for 1st page of this letter*] COPIED APR 1, 1911 E. D. --2 shall report to you later, and we then shall submit the name of the hotel to be designated as the headquarters. incidental to our visit to Atlanta, the Atlanta Federation of Trades held a great mass meeting at which it was my privilege to address a large gathering of labor men with quite an attendance of men and women in other walks of life. It was the general consensus of opinion that our visit and the meeting aided in stimulating a good opinion of the cause and of the movement in which we are engaged. The above is sent you for information on that when the subject matter is communicated to you in a later letter, you will be better prepared to vote upon the questions of hall, as well as hotel accommodations and headquarters. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours. Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 222 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] LP April 1, 1911 NO. 33 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: In view of the fact that the United States Supreme Court may at any time hand down the decision in regard to Messrs. Mitchell, Morrison and the undersigned, and that we thereby will be deprived of the opportunity of visiting Atlanta for the purpose of making arrangements for the November convention of the A. F. of L., Secretary Morrison and I planned to go to Atlanta early for the purpose of making these arrangements. Mr. Short, President of the Building Trades Department and Mr. Tracy, Secretary of the Union Label Trades Department also went to Atlanta for the purpose of making arrangements for their respective conventions, which are to be held about the same time as that of the A. F. of L. We have secured the auditorium and the annex for our respective conventions. The hall is commodious, light and pleasant and apparently has good acoustic properties. We have been promised to have the halls without any charge. Shortly we can expect to have this in writing. Thus the promise has been made to us orally by the Mayor of Atlanta, as well as the representative labor movement of that city. There are a number of commodius hotels upon which we223 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] Z. March 31, 1911 In replying please refer to Resolution #54. Mr. S. H. Laws, Editor, The Jackson Labor, Press, Jackson, Tennessee. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 27th instant has been duly received, in which you offer your services as delegate to the conventions of the Tennessee Counties organizations of farmers. This entire subject was referred by the St. Louis convention to Mr. Thomas F. Tracy, Secretary of the Union Label Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor, Room 708 Ouray Building, this City, and I have today taken the matter up with him, requesting him to communicate with you direct. No doubt you will hear from him in a short space of time. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.224 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] Z March 31, 1911. In replying please refer to Resolution #54. Mr. Thomas F. Tracey, Secretary, Union Label Trades Department, A F. of L., Ouray Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to Resolution #54 of the St. Louis Convention relative to some representative of labor attending the conventions of the Tennessee counties organization of farmers. I beg to say that under date of March 27th Mr. S. H. Laws of Jackson, Tenn., who edits the Jackson Labor Press, offers his services to act as the representative of labor in attending these meets. A copy of his letter is enclosed herein. As you will note, it is jointly addressed to you, Secretary Morrison and myself. Inasmuch as this entire subject matter was referred to you by the convention I am writing Mr. Laws to that effect and that you will take the matter up with him direct. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 225 COPY. THE JACKSON LABOR PRESS. Jackson, Tenn., March 27, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres., A. F. of L., Frank Morrison, Sec., A. F. of L., Thomas F. Tracy, Pres., Label League. Washington, D. C. Dear Sirs and Brothers: I am mailing each under separate cover a copy of Jackson Labor Press. We have a town of about 1,500 card men who seem to appreciate our efforts. The farmers Union have no state organ. We are reaching out to them with some success. A good, live union paper was needed very much here. I was very much interested in Resolution #54 which was passed at the St. Louis Convention recommending that a representative of A. F. of L. be sent to visit the country farmers convention in Tennessee. Tennessee has 96 counties but only 37 have active country organizations. At present several counties have several locals but have not yet formed county organizations. All of West Tennessee has county organizations. For your information I will give the counties that have organizations: Haywood, Carroll, Coffee, Hickman, Shelby, Fayette, Henry Waren Bradley Lauderdale Hardeman Benton White Polk Dyer McNary Weakley Humphreys McMinn Obion Chester Harden Huston Monroe Gibson Madison Lawrence Stewart Marion Crockett Henderson Lincoln Montgomery Tipron Decatur Franklin Dickson. You can see that Jackson is the most logical point from which to visit these meetings they are held quarterly; it will necessitate quite a lot of traveling, hence the railroad fare will be the largest item. I have taken Jackson as a basing point and find that 25 counties can be made at a cost of $150.00 for transportation charges; this will not be more and possibly less226 -2- as two or more counties near each other might meet in succession, but you will bear in mind that it will take three months to make those, so you can see that a resident of Jackson has the advantage provided he is qualified to do the work. I am anxious to visit those counties in the interest of our paper, but I am not able to do so on account of lack of means. I will give my time to the cause if the A. F. of L. will pay me transportation and hotel fare, which will not be over $250.00 of $300.00. When West Tennessee has been covered (if it is done before the first of July) I have the assurance of the state organizer that he will arrange rallies and take the counties in order and visit them with me. This will be in counties up the state that have week county organization and those that have no county organization I can and will arrange to cover the state if it be the desire of the committee. As to my qualification will state that I am Secretary of the T. and L. C., was a delegate to the St. Louis convention, am organizer for A. F. of L. here. If I am selected for the job will prepare for work. The state organizer lives in this county and is a warm personal friend of mine. The Secretary and also the President [lives] live in neighboring towns. I am eligible to membership in the organization and mean to join soon. You can see what advantage I have. If arrangements have already been made or the committee thinks best to send someone else I will be ready to help in any way I can. It there is any more data the committee wants I will gladly get it for them. Our Central Body has spent more money and time in sending committees to visit the farmers in their counties and state meetings and believe that it is very important that this is kept up and we mean to keep it up as far as we are able. We have the hearty cooperation of county and state 227 -3- officials but we will have to go after the rank and file of the membership. We have great faith in our paper reaching them. The best farmers union writers in the state (and they have some good ones) have promised to contribute regular we will enlarge the paper so as to accommodate our people and them to so what the see in the paper they will see it is indorsed by their officials hence we believe will be great medium to educate them along trades union lines we will have one or more label in each issue. We already have a number of farmers in our subscription list. I will not worry you further but will repeat that if at any time I can be of any service to the committee I will be glad to serve them. I am going to after the farmers. I believe we can reach them and think now is the time. Trusting I will hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am Yours for co-operation, (Signed) S. H. Laws, Lock Box 14.228 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] Z April 1, 1911. Mr. John G. Meiler, Secretary, Wood Workers' International Union of America, 3538 North Albany Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find copy of a letter which I have just received from Mr. C. H. Kitzmiller of Bemis, W. Va. I have not made any reply to Mr. Kitzmiller's letter other than to acknowledge its receipt and to say that I would confer with you as to the matter of his local union withdrawing from your International Union and becoming affiliated with some other International or with the A. F. of L. direct. Kindly let me have a word from you in regard to this at your early convenience and oblige Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.229 COPY. Bemis, W. Va., Mar. 29, 1911 Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres. A. F. of L. Dear Sir: Believing that you as President of the American Federation of Labor must certainly be ever ready to extend the helping hand to a labor organization, whether it consist of a few or many members, I take the liberty of writing you for a little information. And in order that you may the more clearly understand the situation, I will begin by explaining that we are employed in the manufacture of lumber and through a misunderstanding of the constitution as to those eligible to membership, about thirty (30) of us, last month, secured a charter from the Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union. And now finding that practically none of us are eligible, we have done the only thing we believe possible to do under the circumstances and have withdrawn as a body, and as individuals, from the above Union. This, I may say, we have done with all due respect to the Union as we believe it to be a worthy organization. But we wish to still maintain an organization among us, realizing that should we not do so, our failing would greatly hinder organized labor among lumber workers, in this section of our State, at least. And now what we would like to have is a charter of our own, independent of any other organization's, under which we can meet and maintain our organization and organize in other nearby towns. Any information that your can give us as to whether we can get a charter of this mind, and to whom we should apply for it, or any advice that you can give us regarding 230 -2- this matter will be highly appreciated. I will say in conclusion that at our meeting last night we voted that for the present we should be known as the American Brotherhood of Lumbermen and all propositions to connect ourselves, as a body, with any of the new existing Lumbermen's Brotherhoods of Unions was voted down. Hoping for an early reply, I am Fraternally yours, (Signed) C. H. Kitzmiller, Sec. P.S. Enclosed stamped, addressed envelope for reply. C. H. K.231 [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] Z April 1, 1911. Mr. C. H. Kitzmiller, P. O. Box No. 33, Bemis, W. Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th ultimo has been duly received and contents noted. I have today written to Mr. John G. Meiler. Secretary of the Wood Workers' International Union, [?] North Albany Avenue, Chicago, Illinois sending him a copy of your letter to me and asking him to write me his views on the subject. Upon receipt of a reply from him, I will write you further. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*232*] [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] Z April 1, 1911. Mr. P. J. Conlon, First Vice-President, International Association of Machinists, 407 McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th ultimo received and contents noted. Let me say first, in reply to the opening paragraph of your letter in regard to the expiration of your commission as volunteer organizer for the A. F. of L., that our records show that your commission does not expire until May 5th, 1911, when I shall certainly be glad to have it renewed if that is your desire. I am exceedingly glad that you have written me in detail as regards the action taken by the several organizations whose members are employed in the shops of the Norfolk & Western Railway Company, including Hostlers and Helpers' Union #11894 of Roanoke, Virginia. It is very important indeed that this information should be on record at headquarters and that the Executive Council should be fully advised in regard thereto in the event of the members of Local #11894 becoming involved in the strike, together with several other locals on that system. I have, therefore, written to the Executive Council and have placed the matter fully[*233*] Mr. P. J. Conlon---2. before my colleagues. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*]234 COPIED. APR 1 1911 LF March 31, 1911 Mr. James Duncan, First Vice-President American Federation of Labor, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: I read with the greatest pleasure and interest your paper on "Efficiency". It is a splendid presentation of the sub- ject. I shall use it for the May issue of the AMERICAN FEDERA- TIONIST. May I express the hope that you will not have it published elsewhere before that time? I am glad that you prepared the matter and yet I agree with you that it is a pity you did not have the opportunity of speaking after Mr. Brandeis concluded his address. In a letter just received from a friend, I understand that Mr. Taylor, the "Father of efficiency", made a declaration that under his scheme it means a destruction of trade unions. I should like very much to see some verification of that statement, provided of course Mr. Taylor made it. I have no doubt but that it would mean that very thing, for it would reduce the number of skilled workers to the very barest minimum and impose law wages upon those of the skilled workers who would be thrown into the army of the unskilled at a very low wage.235 Mr. James Duncan--2 I hope you will find time to read my article on the miracles of 'efficiency' in the April issue. I think you will find something of interest in it, that it is a fairly good contribution upon the literature of that subject. I took particular pains to bring in the testimony that Mr. Harrah, President of the Midvale Steel Company gave before the committee on labor several years ago. It was in that company that Mr. Taylor first conceived and put into practice his so-called ideas of efficiency management. Mr. Harrah tells the tale and it is really a horrifying one. Our friend John Mitchell has written a letter for publication in the forthcoming issue of the Mine Workers' Journal and it is splendid. In a letter in which he sends me a copy of his letter, he says that he is going to follow it up with a number of other letters. You know that the change of officers in the U. M. W. of A. occurs tomorrow, Saturday. I wish you would let me know definitely the time of your contemplated departure from our shores for the other side. I know the delicate position in which you are placed by reason of there being a contest for International secretaryship of your Association, but there is no apprehension upon that acore, and besides you may rely upon my discretion that I shall not make public our correspondence. I would like to know also the points that you care to reach on the other side. I will then try to suggest an itinerary, as per the Executive Council decision. Wish the best of luck and good wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. [*236*] [*COPIED APR 1 1911*] LF March 31,1911 Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th instant to hand and contents noted. I thank you also for copy of letter which you sent here written you by Mr. Mahlon Barnes, Secretary of the Socialist Party, in regard to the complaint alleged by you against J. W. Slayton and the representations made by him in regard to his standing in the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners. I am sure you are very proud to know that in spite of the fact that Slayton is a non-union man, Mr. Barnes styles him your and his "Brother". Will you do me the kindness of sending Mr. Barnes' original letter to me just for perusal? I want to examine something in connection with it which I shall inform you at some future time. Of course I will return Mr. Barnes' letter to you immediately upon examining it. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, A.P. of L.237 [*COPIED APR 1 1911*] LF March 31, 1911. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I greatly appreciate your courtesy in sending me a copy of the letter written to you by Recording Secretary Wm. Stocket of Local #55 of Denver, and also your Letter of March 29th. It is quite evident that your letter to #55 had its desired effect. I feel confident that the committee of #55 for transcended the power and authority vested in it by the union and that after all the membership is loyal to the U. B., as well as the general purposed of the American Labor movement as represented by the American Federation of Labor. Of course it is not generally understood the work and advantage which the American Federation of Labor is performing and securing for the toilers of our country. All we can do is the best that lies in us to impress upon the wage earners the necessity of unity, as well as the necessity of federation among the organized bodies of the wage workers of our country Again thanking you for your cooperation and courtesy,238 Mr. Frank Duffy --2 With best wishes and always being glad to hear from you, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*239*] [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] M April 1, 1911. Mr. George F. Hedrick, President, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Quite a number of the Presidents of the International Unions affiliated to the American Federations of Labor hold commissions as volunteer organizer. It occurred to me that in all probability that you would find such a commission of help and assistance. If my suggestion meets with your approval I shall be glad to issue you a commission as volunteer organizer for the United States. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*240*] COPIED. APR 1, 1911 M April 1, 1911 Mr. R. S. Johnson, 3754 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 27th instant received and contents noted. In reply thereto I beg to say that as stated in my previous letter, the entire subject matter of your complaint against the officers of the Lathers International Union should be taken up direct with them and not with the President of the American Federation of Labor. Each international organization is guaranteed [entire?] jurisdiction and control over its own affairs. If you feel that you have grounds of complaint against the President and Secretary of the International Union, then you should appeal to the General Executive Board, or if necessary to the convention. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*241*] COPIED. APR 1 1911 M April 1, 1911. Mr. Livingston Farrand, Secretary, The National Association for the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis, 105 East 22nd St., New York City. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your notice that there will be a meeting of the Board of Directors of the National Association for the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis on Saturday afternoon, April 15, at 4:00 P. M., Cosmos Club. If I am in the City on that date I shall certainly endeavor to be present. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor. [*242*] COPIED. APR 1 1911 COPIED. APR 1 1911 LF March 31, 1911 Mrs. Rosalind Beazley Orlando Kentucky My dear Madam: Your favor of the 28th instant is received, and under separate cover copy of your book "Virginia Rose" and other stories, for which you will please accept my thanks. I have not had time to look it over, but hope to do so in the near future. In regard to the meeting of the Union Label appearing upon your book, I would suggest that you take this up with Mr. James M. Lynch, President of the International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.[*243*] COPIED APR 1, 1911 LF March 31, 1911 Mr. Harry Mountford, Secretary White Rats Actors Union of America, 1559 Broadway, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: This morning's Washington Post contains an editorial which seemed to me to be so fair and complimentary that I deem it my pleasure and duty to have clipped it and to enclose it to you herein. I am sure you will be glad to peruse it and perhaps if you care, reproduce it in THE PLAYER. Sincerely and Fraternally yours President American Federation of Labor Enclosure:[*244**] COPIED. APRIL 1 1911 LF April 1,1911 Mr. J. M. Richie, Organizer Box 448 Lethbridge, Alta., Canada Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 24th has been duly received and contents noted. Now in regard to the matter of the employes of the two milling companies, I beg to say that the formation of any union is primarily for the benefit of the workers and not merely as an advertisement of the business of any particular concerns or company. You say that the employes of one company, the Taylor Company, are organized into a local union of the International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes and this company uses the label of that International Union: you further say that the employes of another company, The Ellison Company, desire to become organized, but that the Taylor Company objects. I am sure you will agree with me that it is not the true concept of the trade union movement that any organization should be used merely as a vehicle for advertising the goods of any company. There is no reason why the employes of the Ellison Mill, and of any other flour and cereal mills in that locality, should not make application for and be received into membership[*245*] Mr. J. M. Richie --2 the local union of the trade. I would be glad to have you give this matter your attention and let me hear from you further in regard thereto. With best wishes for success, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.LF March 31,1911 Mr. Jerome Jones, Chairman Committee of Arrangements, 406 Austell Bldg., Atlanta, Ga. Dear Sir and Brother: Our delegation got back here on time and we, each of us got into harness very soon. I want to assure you and all our other friends of Atlanta that we had a most interesting and agreeable sojourn in your city, and I wish that you would convey the expressions of our gratitude to all who contributed thereto. Of course I feel grateful too that my address was so well received by our fellow unionists and other friends who were at the meeting. There was cause for a time of regret when on the train Tuesday afternoon I first saw a copy of the Atlanta Evening Journal which contained so distorted an account of the meeting as was published in that issue. You know that I made no sensational speech, and you know that I did not attack the Supreme Court, or any other court, and certainly not in scathing terms. Indeed the very report is contradictory in itself for it states that I attacked the Supreme Court of the United States for deciding unconstitutional the Workmen's Compensation Law, when as a matter of fact the decision was made by the Court of the State of New York,[*247*] Mr. Jerome Jones--2 I really believe that the published report of my utterances was an inadvertence rather than an intentional injustice to me. The editorial in the Monday evening's issue of the Atlanta Journal demonstrated a kindly disposition toward me, and an appreciation of the work I try to do. You and the members of the committee, as well as his Honor, Mayor Winn, orally informed me that we could have the use of the Auditorium and the annex known as Taft Hall for the Conventions of the American Federation of Labor and the two Departments. I should very much like to have a written statement by the duly constituted authorities of the city of Atlanta, who have the power to give us the use of these Halls for our conventions. The date we shall require these halls is from and including November 9 until December 8, 1911. There are three or four conventions: the convention of the American Federation of Labor; the Union Label Trades Department; the Building Trades Department; the Railroad Employes Department, and perhaps the Metal Trades Department. I am very glad to be able to say to you that Mrs. Gompers is somewhat improved, although she is still suffering and confined to her room. It will be several weeks before she will be able to get around. Remember me kindly to Mrs. Jones, and all our friends. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you soon, I am, Fraternally yours. President American Federation of LaborMarch 31, 1911. Mr. John M. Walsh, Member, Machinists' Local Union No. 634, 369 E St., South Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant is at hand and contents noted. The matter to which you refer occurred in the Boston Convention of the American Federation of Labor. At that time I was informed by the delegation from the International Association of Machinists that they fully understood the vote of the members of the I. A. of M., and that they felt confident that had the members had the opportunity of determining for themselves they would have acted as the delegates to the Boston Convention of the A. F. of L. voted. The choice was between myself an absolute trade unionist who had given my whole life to the movement, or another who was a political partisan first and a trade unionist afterwards. There are other matters which prompted the delegates to the I. A. of M. to the course they pursued, but inasmuch as the man who was running against me is now dead, it seems most indelicate to refer to the matter at all. Mr. James J. Creamer, one of the delegates to the I. A. of M., Boston Convention, asked for the privilege of placing my name in nomination for the presidency of the A. F. of L., the result of the vote was 12,448249 J. M. W. 2. for me and 1236 for my opponent. You can, therefore, readily observe that had the four delegates from the I. A. of M. voted against me, how little the result would have been changed. It is absurd and an untruth for anyone to say that Mr. O'Connell took it upon himself to instruct the colleagues to vote for me. I suppose you are aware that at many conventions before the one held at Boston my election and re-election has been practically or entirely by unanimous vote. Replying to your second question, I should say that Mr. Kline has been President of the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths for more than twelve years; that Mr. Gilthorpe has been Secretary of the Brotherhood of Boilermakers and Iron Ship Builders for more than twenty years; that Mr. Tobin has been President of the Boot and Shoe Workers for nearly twenty years; that Mr. Ryan has been President of the Bridge and Structure Iron Workers for more than fifteen years; that Mr. Huber has been President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners for sixteen years; that Mr. Perkins has been President of the Cigarmakers for more than twenty years, that Mr. Ricketts has been President of the United Garment Workers of America for more than fifteen years; that Mr. Hayes has been President of the Glass Bottle Association for seventeen years; that Mr. Duncan has been Secretary-Treasurer of the Granite Cutters International Association for more than twenty years, that Mr. Moffitt has been President of the United Hatters of North America for more than fifteen years; that Mr. O'Connell has been President of the International Association of Machinists for nineteen years;J. M. W. 3. that Mr. John Mitchell was President of the United Mine Workers for more than twelve years; that Mr. Valentine has been President of the Iron Molders Union for more than twelve years; that Mr. Wilson has been President of the Pattern Makers League of North America, for more than twelve years; that Mr. Lynch of the International Typographical Union has been President for more than twelve years; that Mr. Barham has been President of the Railroad Telegraphers for more than fifteen years; that Mr. Golden has been President of the Textile Workers for more than twelve years; that Mr. Tobin has been President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, etc., for more than eight years; that Mr. Mulcahy has been President of the Wood Workers International Union for more than fifteen years. Besides this, Mr. Stone has been President of the Brotherhood of Railroad Locomotive Engineers for more than ten years; Mr. Garretson has been President of the Railroad [Telegraphers] Conductors for more than ten years. In the instances where I have given you the names of the secretaries instead of the presidents they are as a rule the acting executive officer. With the exception of a few years I have been President of the American Federation of Labor since its Institution in 1881. Of course, there is no reflection upon any man who has not served as an executive officer in the trade union movement for many years. I am simply replying to your question. It means that when a man had gained experience and has faithfully served the membership and labor generally, this faithfulness and service and experience should not be lightly thrown away. They are assets which result to the advantage of the working man and the movement generally. No business man or corporation would ever dispense with experienced faithful employ-J. M. W. 4. es, so long as they capable of giving effective services. Trusting that the information which you request has been fully given, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.April 1, 1911. Mr. E. N. Nockels, 275 La Salle Street, Chicago, Illinois. Friend Nockels: I am in receipt of your note and the enclosures, being editorials and cartoons from the Chicago Daily Socialist. Do you know that I am really glad that you and Fitz and Robins and others have been attacked by the Socialist Political Party press? I have had your comradeship in the activities of the labor movement, and in the attacks of the Post-Kirby and Davenports, and I am glad that I shall not be longer deprived of your comradeship in the equally venomous attacks of the Socialist press. In a letter just now to Brother Fitzpatrick I congratulated him upon having received the trade union reward of merit at the hands of the Socialist politicians. It must be a source of satisfaction to you and your colleagues attacked that the Chicago Federation of Labor and its affiliated unions and the rank and file of organized labor of Chicago have invariably expressed their respect for and confidence in the ability, sincerity, and faithfulness with which you and the active workers in the trade union movement of Chicago have performed your and their duties toward labor. When the campaign is over, it would not be amiss to have these editorial attacks on hand and in the calmer moments show them253 COPIED. APR 1 1911 Mr. E. N. Nockels -2- to the rank and file and the representative men in the labor movement in Chicago. Again accept my hearty congratulations! Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.April 1, 1911. Mr. J. E. Templeton, Secretary, Buck's Stove and Range Company, St. Louis, Missouri. My dear Sir: Your favor of March 28th has been duly received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that I am now sending out a special individual letter to our representatives in the various cities you name, requesting them to have committees appointed to wait upon the dealers you name in their respective localities, for the purpose of officially and formally advising them of the friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company. I trust that good results will accrue and trust that this will be helpful to your sales department. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*255*] COPIED. APR 1 1911 I. April 1, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTIONS #22-61 Mr. William P. Mavell, Secretary, International Carriage and Wagon Workers' Union, 403 South Division Street, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to the conference between representatives of your International Union, representatives of the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, and the Upholsterers' International Union, as per Resolutions #22-61 of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L., I am writing to you and to the officers of the Blacksmiths and Upholsterers to inquire if it would be convenient for your representatives to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor on Wednesday, April the 19th? Will you kindly advise me as to this at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor[*256*] [*COPIED. APR 1 1911*] X. April 1, 1911. When Replying Please Refer to Resolutions #22-81. Mr. James H. Hatch, President, Upholsterers' International Union of North America, 159 East 57th Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to the conference between representatives of your International Union, representatives of the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, and the International Carriage and Wagon Workers' Union, as per Resolutions #22-81 of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L., I am writing to you and to the officers of the Blacksmiths and Carriage and Wagon Workers to inquire if it would be convenient for your representatives to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor on Wednesday, April the 19th? Will you kindly advise me as to this at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*257*] COPIED APR 1 1911 X. April 1, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #22-81. Mr. J. W. Kline, President, International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, 570 Monon Bldg., Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your telegram of this date, I have just wired you as follows: "Telegram received. Secretary Mavell requested conference latter part of April. Have been trying to arrange it but thus far unsuccessful. Will write you soon as arrangements can be made." I am just writing to Secretary Mavell of the Carriage and Wagon Workers' International Union, and President Hatch of the Upholsterers' International Union, inquiring whether it would be convenient for them to meet in conference here to headquarters on Wednesday, April the 19th. For the last two weeks I have been in correspondence with several members of the Executive Council, endeavoring to arrange with them to act as the representative of the A. F. of L. at this conference, but their engagements are such as to prevent. If the conference be held at headquarters, then Secretary Morrison and I will have the opportunity of representing the A. F. of L. I wish you would be please advise me to your early convenience whether the258 Mr. J. W. Kline -2- time and place will be agreeable and convenient to you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*259*] [* COPIED. Apr 3 1911*] X. April 3, 1911. Mr. A. W. Bennett, Secretary, Chickaska Trades Council, 828 Minnesota Ave., Chickasha, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be ap-260 Mr. A. W. Bennett -2- pointed by your central body to wait upon the J. C. Schow Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interest of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President. American Federation of Labor.261 COPIED. APR 8 [*, *] 1911 K. April 1, 1911. Mr. L. U. Burkett, Secretary, Central Labor Union, General Delivery, Bartlesville, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stove and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor is friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be ap-262 Mr. L. U. Burkett -2- pointed by your central body to wait upon The Cherokee Hardware and Furniture Company, The Mendel Hardware Company, and the Block-Miller Hardware Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.263 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] LP April 3, 1911 Mr. C. W. Woodman c/o Union Banner, Ft. Worth, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your two favors of March 28th and 29th have been duly received and contents noted. You say that at the recent city election there was the largest Socialist vote ever polled in Ft. Worth, that is, 118 and you seem to be considerably disturbed over the situation. I have read with a great deal of interest the editorial from the Ft. Worth Record of Wednesday morning, March 29 on "Socialist Administration for Ft. Worth." As you understand, the Socialists have a platform that would rehabilitate the whole world in a day. That is really worth while in a platform should be the declarations of the trade union movement. If appears from your letter that through some cause or other the trade unionists have left the field of activity and the handfull of Socialists have occupied it, and hence the alarm expressed in the editorial from the Record.264 Mr. C. W. Woodman --2 I have noted carefully all that you say as regard the political situation in Texas. As I said in my letter of March 25 we will be glad to have you attend the State Federation of Labor Convention and make several trips along during the spring and summer to the several cities you name, but to have you start out regularly through the state on campaign work, that is not within my power to have you do. Even now it is just as much as we can possibly manage with the Federation treasury to meet the salary and expenses of the regular organizers who devote all of their time to the Federation work and occasionally a few days of extra work from others such as arranged for with you in my previous letter. I regret not to be able to comply with your request and act upon your suggestion, for I appreciate the situation as you describe it to me, and your desire to give the very best that is in you to the great work in which we are enlisted; but as you can understand, with such a limited treasury, the agitation and educational work of the Federation is greatly hampered. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*265*] [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] M April 3, 1911. Mr. Samuel Guy Culp, Amarillo, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 30th to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, and beg to say relative to issuing you a commission as volunteer organizer for Amarillo, that if you will forward us the official endorsement of the Local union of which you are a member we will be glad to issue you a commission as volunteer organizer. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you further, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*266*] [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] M April 5, 1911. Mr. Harry E. Braisher, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 18750, 118 East Lament St., Bozeman, Montana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 26th ultimo is at hand enclosing written agreement between your union and the Bozeman Milling Company, and which you state has been signed by the Company, and that your union has succeeded in getting a raise of fifty cents a day. I am exceedingly glad to hear that your agreement was signed without any trouble, and of the increase you have obtained, and trust the good work may continue. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.267 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] S April 3, 1911. Mr. H. A. Skelley, Secretary, Workmen's Industrial Home Association, 411 West Second Street, Davenport, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 51st ultimo has been duly received, in which, on behalf of your organization, you extend to me an invitation to deliver the Labor Day address at Davenport this year. In reply I beg to say that this invitation is appreciated by me, but as you know the demands upon my time are overwhelming, and there are so many unforeseen circumstances which may arise between now and the date in question, making my presence elswhere absolutely imperative until I hesitate to make any edefinite engagements so far in advance. Then again, the Supreme Court of the United States has not yet rendered its decision on the contempt cases of Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Morrison and myself, and in the event of such decision being against us we would have to serve the sentences by Judge Wright of nine, six and twelve months in jail. A note has been made of your communication, and should I find later that I can accept you will be duly advised sufficiently in advance to make the necessary arrangements.268 Mr. H. A. Skelley---2 With kind regards and assurances of my good wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.269 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] AH April 3, 1911. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, This is to certify that Mr. Jasper N. Mahey is hereby duly authorized to install the officers and initiate the members of the Federal Labor Union #13184 of Amarillo, Texas. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.270 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] X. April 3, 1911. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Secretary, Executive Committee, National Civic Federation, Metropolitan Bldg., New York City. My dear Mr. Easley: Your telegram of the first instant reached here after office was closed Saturday afternoon, and I am sending you the first thing this morning twenty five copies of the April issue, AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.271 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Mr. James A. Reynolds, Twenty-fifth District, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 29th has been duly received, together with the two copies of your bill which has now become a law; "To Provide For the Election of Judicial Officers By Separate Ballot." It is a most excellent measure and I congratulate you. There is another matter in connection with the subject of this law about which I want to write you and that is, I would like to know whether you would not be willing to write an article upon this new law from the view-point of labor and the real nonpartisan judiciary, which would be independent from any political party but would result in having men elected to the bench who possess the requisite ability and faithfulness to fearlessly administrate the laws and men who are the choice of the more intelligent, discerning constituency. It seems to me that such an article would be very timely and exceedingly interesting to the readers of the American Federationist and at the sametime give wider 272 Mr. James A. Reynolds --2 publicity to the Ohio law. Let me know if you can undertake this and if so, what I might look for the article. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*273*] [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Mr. D. A. Hayes, President Glass Bottle Blowers' Assn. of the U.S. &. Canada 930 Witherspoon Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa Dear Sir and Brother: I have just been able to reach your letter of March 24th, receipt of which has already been acknowledged. You say that your local union at Bridgeton, New Jersey complains that the attendance of the delegates from the various local unions to the meetings of the Trades Council is very meagre; that the local unions are losing ground; that the majority of the membership has become absolutely indifferent and that therefore you have been requested by your Bridgeton local to ask that one of the special organizers of the American Federation of Labor be sent to Bridgeton not only in the interests of the movement of that city, but the other towns throughout South Jersey. I regret to say that at present it is absolutely impossible for us to arrange to have one of the special organizers take up the work in Bridgeton and South Jersey. To send a man there would, as you know, involve his remaining for a period of several months. At this time with our very limited number of organizers and the important work of a general character in[*274*] Mr. D. A. Hayes--2 other sections of the country, it is not possible to arrange to have one of the men go there. I wish you would kindly have your Bridgeton local furnish me with a list of the local unions whose delegates have failed to attend the meetings of the central body. I will then take the matter up with the executive officers of their respective national and international unions to the end that proper steps may be taken to have them attend the meetings of the central body be provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. Let me say further that we may be able to have some one visit Bridgeton or South Jersey for a day or two occasionally as opportunity affords and you can rest assured that we will be glad to do so whenever circumstances are such as to permit us. I sincerely trust that you are feeling very much better and that the world goes well with you. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.275 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Mr. Jerome Jones, Organizer 408 Austell Bldg., Atlanta, Georgia. Dear Sir and Brother: When I was in Atlanta recently, Mr. Robert Fochsen, Secretary of the Georgia State Federation of Labor spoke to me in regard to having you make a trip through the state in the interests of the State Federation of Labor. I requested him to write me after my return to headquarters and he has done so. He says: "The State Federation is going to make a determined effort to improve the legislative condition of the wage workers and we need the active co-operation of all unions in the state. I have made several efforts during the past year to secure the affiliation of the locals but have met with indifferent success. There are still more than an hundred locals that are not affiliated and we think that a personal appeal will be the only means of getting them. Jerome Jones is well known all over the addresses. We are sure that he can do more effective work than any other man we know of. We are not in a position to pay the expense of this work and so we are appealing to you to have it done for us." I am now writing to say that if the work as outlined by Mr. Fechner can be fairly and amply completed in the course of two or three weeks of you time devoted entirely to it, I shall be [*276*] Mr. Jerome Jones --2 COPIED APRIL 8 1911 glad to have you undertake it. Kindly let me have a word from you in regard to this at your early convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.277 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] LF April 3, 1911. Mr. Robert Fechner, Secretary Georgia Federation of Labor, P. O. Box 268, Savannah, Ga. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of March 29th, I beg to say I have just written your Organizer Jerome Jones and have informed him that if he can complete the work as indicated by you in the course of two or three weeks of his time, I shall be glad to have him undertake it at the expense of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor [*278*] [*COPIED APR 2 1911*] M April 3, 1911. Mr.[?. ?.] Hughes, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, Kima, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 24, to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state the Trades and Labor Council recommends the appointment of Clarence F. Hathaway as volunteer organizer for Kima and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Hathaway 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.279 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] M April 3, 1911. Mr. Paul J. Paulsen Secretary, Sweetwater County Trades and Labor Council Box 198, Rock Springs, Wyoming. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 26th to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state the Trades and Labor Council recommends the appointment of Thomas W. Crofts as volunteer organizer for Rock Springs and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Crofts in acceptance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of literature and documents published by the 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.280 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] M April 3, 1911. Mrs. H. J. Hauenhauer , 1525 South Rampart St., New Orleans, La. My dear Madam: Your favor of March 24th received and contents noted. I regret very much to know that your husband's health is not such as you would wish it to be, and I would be glad to be in a position to be of some assistance to you. I note your suggestion for the contribution of a small purse to defray his expenses to the spring, but I am sure that further reflection upon the matter will convince you of the impracticability of such a course being followed by either Secretary Morrison or myself. First, we could not consistently do as you request, and should similar requests be made of us then refuse., and of course, we could not continue from time to time to place the burden of such requests upon the employes of the A. F. of L. office. I would suggest that you take this matter up with the organization in which Brother Hauenhauer holds his membership, and see if they could not devise means by which he could take a trip. With the hope of his speedy restoration to health, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.[*281*] [*COPIED. APR 2 1911*] M April 1, 1911. Mr. Will Herman, Secretary, Tin, Steel, Iron and Granite Ware Workers No. 10943, 2034 Dewey Ave, Granite City, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to Local Lodge No. 2 and the Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, I beg to say that President McArdle, under date of March 30, writes me as follows: "I have been absent from our office the greater part of the month, which will account for your letter of the 21st remaining unanswered so long. I will say in reference to the subject matter of our recent correspondence that I had a conference with Organizer Heely and a committee representing Good Friday Lodge No. 8, Illinois at Granite City on March 12th. The chief reason given for their desire to withdraw from our organization is that the dues are too high. In addition to that those advanced by Secretary Herman of #10943 in his of the 18th to you were also stated. My position in this matter is that we had no power to surrender jurisdiction over these men, who have been with us a number of years, and that our convention would have to act if such action was to be taken. Until such time as our convention passes on the matter, I will regard it as my duty to protest against their withdrawl and affiliation with any other organization. As our convention meets on May 2, I think they should present their case there. I feel sure that if they can show that their position as organized workers is[*282*] [*COPIED. APR 8 1911*] [W]. H. 2. going to be strengthened, there will be no serious objections to their withdrawal. It should be understood, however, that the members of No. 8 are indebted to our Association for assessments levied during our recent strike, and if this indebtedness is not liquidated it will likely operate against a favorable consideration of their proposal [?] be withdraw, in case they decide to make it to the convention. We can hardly be expected to encourage a local to withdraw while indebted to us even though they might have sound reasons otherwise for so doing. I think it would be well for you to advise them, either through Mr. Herman or Mr. Heely, to present their request and their reasons to our convention to that definite decision may be had. Until such a decision has been, we will regard it as our duty to protest against their admission into any organization affiliated with the A. F. of L. " I would, therefore, be glad to have you take this matter up further with the officers of Lodge No. 8 in conformity with the policy outlined by President McArdle. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.[*283*] COPIED. APR 8 1911 M April 1, 1911. Mr. P. J. McArdle, President Amal. Assn of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, House Bldg., Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of March 30th I beg to say that I have written to the Secretary of the Tin, Steel, Iron and Granite Ware Workers No. 10943, Mr. Will Herman, sending him copy of your letter to me, and requesting him to take the matter up further with the officers of Lodge No. 8, in conformity with the policy outlined in your letter. Of course, you understand that the American Federation of Labor would not consent to the members of Local No. 8 withdrawing and becoming members of Local No. 10943, unless it would be with the full consent of your International Association. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.284 [*COPIED APR 2 1911*] Y. March 31, 1911. Mr. Michael Sweeney Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box #321, Golden, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of March 21, in which you ask me for information as to the wording of an ordinance for a small city in order to establish the eight-hour workday for all city work, I enclose you herewith copy of the Colorado law on "Hours of Labor on Public Works," which you can find in the Colorado annotated statues, and which upon close examination, I find is a fairly effective law for the purpose required in your City. The only thing remaining for you to do would be to draft a suitable ordinance for the city use in conformity with this statutory provision. It is possible that the former officials of Golden have not been sufficiently interested in enforcing this state law, which, as you will note, is applicable in "any county, township, school district, municipality or incorporated town. It will, therefore, redound to your credit and that of your associates who are union men in the City Council, to see to it that this law is properly observed and enforced by a suitable city ordinance. You will understand, of course, that your city attorney or county285 Mr. Michael Sweeney --2. attorney, as the case may be, upon the work being done, are the responsible officials to enforce this State law in your city and county; and in accordance with the usual experience, if they know that you and your associates are sufficiently vigilant, they will not wait to be prompted, but will attend to this duty along with others and see that there will be no cause for complaint. I also furnish you sketches of a suitable provision to be included as a PREVAILING RATE OF WAGES ORDINANCE, but would recommend that you that you take this subject up separately from the ordinance governing the eight-hour day, so that in case a test should be made and it is declared untenable because of no statutory authority by the State, that an adverse decision against this feature would not render ineffective the eight-hour ordinance. Trusting that you may be in every way successful in this very laudable effort, and that you will keep me advised as to the outcome, with best wishes and many regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*286*] SKETCH no. [?] COLORADO EIGHT-HOUR LAW. Hours of Labor on Public Works. Section 2801a. In all work hereafter undertaken in behalf of the State or county, township, school district, municipality or incorporated town, it shall be unlawful for any board, officer, agent or any contractor or subcontractor thereof to employ any mechanic, Workingman or Laborer in the prosecution of any such work for more than eight hours a day. Section 2801b. Nothing in section one of this act (2801a shall be construed so as to prevent work in excess of eight hours a day in emergency cases: Provided, that hours in excess of eight a day shall be treated as constituting part of a subsequent day's work. And, provided, That in no one week of seven days shall there be permitted more than forty-eight hours of labor. Any violation hereof shall be unlawful. Section 2810c. Any employer, board, officer or contractor who shall violate the provisions of sections 1 or 2 (2801a or 2801b) of this act shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and on conviction thereof shall be punished by fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500) or by imprisonment in the county jail not more than one hundred (100) days or by both fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the court.[*287*] SKETCH NO. 2. COMBINATION OF AN EIGHT-HOUR DAY AND PREVAILING RATE OF WAGES ORDINANCE. EIGHT-HOUR PROVISION. Each contract to which the county of ___________or the City of ____________is a party which may involve the employment of laborers, workmen, mechanics or other per diem employes, shall contain a stipulation that no laborer, workman, mechanic or such per diem employe in the employ of the County, City, Contractor, subcontractor or other person doing or contracting to do the whole or a part of the work contemplated by the contract, shall be permitted or required to work more than eight-hours in any one calendar day, except in cases of extraordinary emergencies caused by fire, flood or danger to life or property. PREVAILING RATE OF WAGES ORDINANCE. The wages to be paid for such a legal day's work as herein before defined to all classes of each laborers, workmen, mechanics or per diem employe's upon all such public works, or upon any material to be used upon or in connection therewith, shall not be less than the prevailing rate for a day's work in the same trade or occupation in the locality within the county or city where such public work on, about or in connection with which such labor is performed in its final or completed form is to be situated, erected or used. Each such contract hereafter made shall contain a stipulation that each such laborer, workman, mechanic or per diem employe employed by the county, city, contractor, and subcontractor or other person on, about or upon such public work, shall receive such wages herein provided for. Each contract for such public work hereafter made shall contain a provision that the same shall be void and of no effect unless the person or corporation making or performing the same shall comply with the provisions of this section, and no such person or corporation shall be entitled to receive any sum nor shall any officer, agent or employe of the county or the city pay the same or authorize its payments from the funds under his charge or control to any such person or corporation for work done upon any contract which in its form or manner of performance violates the provisions of this section. [*288*] SKETCH NO. 2, CONTINUED. Any employer, board, officer or contractor who shall violate the provisions of this act shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and on conviction thereof shall be punished by fine of not less than one hundred dollars nor more than five hundred dollars or by imprisonment in the county jail not more than one hundred days or by both fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the court.[*289*] SKETCH NO. 3. COPIED. APR 8 1911 MINIMUM RATE FOR LABORERS. The minimum compensation to be paid for Labor upon all work performed under the direction, control, or by the authority of any officer of this county or city acting in this official capacity, or under the direction, control of any officer thereof acting as such, is hereby fixed at _______ dollars per day; and a stipulation to that effect must be made a part of all contracts to which the county or the municipal corporation therein is a party. NOTE: Please note on Sketch No. 3 where the minimum rate is set for laborers you can add, if you please, minimum rates for each trade or you may draft a separate ordinance for each trade that will be in conformity with the prevailing rate existing in Golden. Such ordinance could be readily amended in future to conform to such as the separate trades increased rates succeeded in obtaining through the economic power of their organization. [*290*] COPIED. APR 8 1911 X. April 1, 1911. Mr. W. D. Mahon, President, Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes of America, 45 Hodges Block, Detroit, Michigan. Dear Sir andBrother: Your favor of the 30th ultimo received and contents noted with a great deal of interest. You say that you have in mind the preparation of an article dealing with the fraternal and beneficial side of the trade union movement and that you have gradually secured a great amount of valuable information in connection therewith. You then desire to know whether you should prepare the article for publication in the American Federationist, or to be issued in pamphlet form. Yes indeed, by all means prepare it for the American Federationist. That is just the kind of matter that I particularly desire for our official magazine. No matter if the article will be very long, it can very easily be run in two or more issues. I wish you would give me an idea about when you would be ready so that I can arrange accordingly for its publication. Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally Yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor I hope you will [?] [?] [?] [*291*] COPIED. APR 8 1911 X. April 1, 1911. Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 29th ult. received and contents noted. I regret that your engagements are such as will prevent your complying with my request to act as the representative of the A. F. of L. in the conferences as directed by Resolution #119 and Resolution #22-81 of the St. Louis Convention. I am now trying to arrange to have the conferences held at headquarters when Secretary Morrison and I can participate therein. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.292 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] X. April 1, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #119. Mr. M. F. Ryan, President, Brotherhood of Railway Carmen, 503 Hall Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to the conference between the representatives of your International Union, and the representatives of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators, and Paperhangers, as per Resolution #119 of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L., I am writing to you and to the officers of the Railway Carmen to inquire if it would be convenient for your representatives to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor on Thursday, April the 20th? For the last two weeks I have been in correspondence with several members of the Executive Council, endeavoring to arrange with them to act as the representatives of the A. F. of L. at this conference be held at headquarters, then Secretary Morrison and I will have the opportunity of representing the A. F. of L. I wish you would please advise me at your early convenience whether the time and place will be agreeable and convenient to you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.293 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] X. April 1, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #119. Mr. J. O. Skemp, Secretary, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators, and Paperhangers, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to the conference between the representatives of your International Union, and the representatives of the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen to inquire if it would be convenient for your representatives to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor on Thursday, April the 20th? For the last two weeks I have been in correspondence with several members of the Executive Council, endeavoring to arrange with them to act as the representatives of the A. F. of L. at this conference, but their engagements are such as to prevent. If the conference be held at headquarters, then Secretary Morrison and I will have the opportunity of representing the A. F. of L. I wish you would please advise me at your early convenience whether the time and place will be agreeable and convenient to you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*294*] [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] M April 3, 1911. Mr. William H. Huber, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: A letter has been received at this office from Charles B. Eddy, Secretary of the Central Labor Union, 1031 Vassar Avenue, South Bend, Indiana, as follows: "As I believe it is the policy of all international trade unions to insist that all local bodies affiliate with local central bodies I wish to call your attention to the fact that the Mishawaka Carpenters' Union do not affiliate with the South Bend Central Labor Union, and have refused to do so after being solicited. Mishawaka is under the jurisdiction of South Bend, as the two cities are practically one, and several other organizations in this city have many union men living and working at that place as members and we also have local unions from that place already in the local central body. If anything can be done to impress upon the Mishawaka carpenters the benefits of affiliation with the local body, we will appreciate it." I have advised Brother Eddy that I was taking the matter up with you, requesting you to urge upon your local the advisability and necessity of being represented in the Central Labor Union, in accordance with Section 2, Article XI of the Constitution. Thanking you in advance for your compliance with the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.295 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Personal Hon. Jonathan Bourne, Jr., United States Senate, Washington, D. C. My dear Senator: Having occasion to refer to "A Mine of Faulte" I recall that last November I sent it to you and Mrs. Bourne. May I ask that you kindly return it at your convenience? With the assurance of my high regard of both you and Mrs. Bourne, I am, Very sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. P.S. The reason I am so particular about asking for this copy is because it was presented to me by a griend. S.G. 296 [*COPIED. APR 3 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Mr. J. J. Reid, Beacon Chambers, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of March 30th I beg to say that the last information I had from President McNulty was to the effect that the matter of the preliminary meeting between the representatives of two bodies of Electrical Workers had been referred to his Executive Board. As he has not as yet advised me as to what action has been taken by his Executive Board, I am again writing him and as soon as I hear anything further from him I will again communicate with you. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.297 COPIED Apr 3 1911 X. April 3, 1911 Mr. Frank J. McNulty, President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: On March 3d. you wrote me that your Executive Board was then in session and that my letter in regard to a conference with Mr. Reid and his colleagues, as directed by the Executive Council, had been referred to your Executive Board. You further state that you would write me as soon as a decision had been reached. This far I have not heard anything from you. Mr. Reid writes me, under date of March 30, desiring to know what had been done in regard to the matter of a preliminary meeting for the purpose of expediting the joint convention. You know that the Executive Council received direct and specific instructions from the St. Louis Convention for the purpose of doing everything within its power to bring about unity among the organized Electrical Workers of America, and the Executive Council outlined a method by which the desired result could be accomplished. It is fair and reasonable to all parties concerned, and you will realize that any action or failure to act, would react upon anyone or any organization responsible. Time is passing along and action should be taken and this office notified, so that the preliminary 298 Mr. Frank J. McNulty -2- conference might be held and jointly work for the unification of the Electrical Workers of America. Please let me hear from you in regard to the above at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.299 [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 3, 1911. Mr. S. M. Boydston, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 233, Wilburton, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Store and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends[*300*] Mr. S. M. Boydston, #2, and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that you should call upon the Exposition Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*301*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VC April 3, 1911. Mr. G. G. Lehew, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Albia, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*302*] COPIED. APR 4 1911 Mr. G. G. LeHew, #2. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon [?k] [Humeston?], to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Yours fraternally, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*303*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 3, 1911. Mr. O. M. Heath, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Arkansas City, Kansas, Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*304*] [*COPIED. APR 4, 1911*] Mr. O. M. Heath, #2. I would therefore suggest that you would wait upon Kirkpatrick and Shaffer, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.305 [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 3, 1911 Mr. Fred Myers, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 1101 Walker street, Fort Scott, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the travelling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stove and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. 306 Mr. Fred Myer, #2. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Armstrong Hardware Co., to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.307 [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 3, 1911 Mr. D. H. Carpenter, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Horton, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that the could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which we recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possible do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. 308 Mr. D. H. Carpenter, #2. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon Scott and Thomas, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with the company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.309 [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 4, 1911 Mr. Pratt Williamson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 11 1/2 Jefferson avenue, Iola, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please fine copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the 310 Mr. Pratt Williamson, #2. encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon L. Sleeper & Son, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*311*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 4, 1911 Mr. E. E. Brunk, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 18 North 6th st., Argentine, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*312*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Mr. E. E. Brunk, #2. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Glandville Brothers, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*313*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 4, 1911. Mr. J. P. Cowen, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 315 South Mechanic street, Emporia, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the Supreme Court of the United States, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*314*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Mr. J. P. Cowen, #2. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the J. C. Dunn Furniture Company and Haynes Hardware Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the best interests of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*315*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 4, 1911. Mr. Reed Crandall, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 725 East 8th street, Newton, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of the circular which was recently issued by this office, in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not be anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the316 Mr. Reed Crandall, #2. encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Mesers, Duff and Son, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*317*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 4, 1911. Mr. S. A. Hostetter, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Neodesha, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*318*] Mr. S. A. Hostetter, #2. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Arthur Furniture Company and Lines Brothers, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the interest of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*319*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] VE April 4, 1911 Mr. H. V. Hargroves, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Abilene, Texas. Dear Sir and brother: From time to time the presidents of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*320*] Mr. H. V. Hargroves, #2. [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Boone-Mueller Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the best interest of the company, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.321 COPIED. APR 4 1911 VE Mr. James A. Gunter, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 200 Lamar avenue, Paris, Texas. Dir Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*322*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Mr. James A. Gunter, #2. I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon Rodgers–Wade Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interest of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.323 COPIED. APR 4 1911 LF Washington, D. C. April 4, 1911 Mr. A. C. Fisher American Industrial and Commercial Agency Co. Toledo Ohio Telegraph received. per your request I can see you here briefly Thursday afternoon. Samuel Gompers (COLLECT)324 COPIED. APR 4 1911 LF April 3, 1911 Mr. James A. Ross, Editor and Manager The Gazetteer and Monthly Magazine 97 Florida St., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir: Your favor in regard to the organization of the colored dining car waiters, porters, etc. has been duly received and has been referred to Mr. Jere L. Sullivan, Secretary of the Hotel and Restaurant Employes' International Alliance and Bartenders' International League of America, who will write you direct in regard thereto. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*325*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Mr. Jere L. Sullivan, Secretary Hotel and Restaurant Employes, etc. Intl. League of America, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find letter which has been addressed to me by James A. Ross, editor and manager of the Gazetteer and Monthly Magazine of Buffalo, N. Y. You will note what he says in regard to [the] organizing the dining car waiters, cooks, porters, etc. I have advised him that his letter is being referred to you and that you would communicate with him direct in regard thereto. Kindly give the matter your early attention and let me have a word from you in regard thereto. Please return the enclosed with your reply, as I am sending you the original letter. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor, Enclosure:[*326*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Otto Nicols, Corresponding Secretary Central Labor Union, 764 Metropolitan Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 29th in regard to Resolution #36 of the St. Louis Convention, dealing with the subject matter of Union Label Fairs, as I stated in that letter, the matter has been referred to the Union Label Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor. I am now in receipt of a letter from Secretary Tracy of that Department, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will note that Mr. Tracy, to whose Department the St. Louis Convention referred Resolution #36, is of the opinion in view of the facts as set forth, that the establishment of a series of Union Label Fairs, as indicated in your letter, would be impractical and unsuccessful. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.327 LF Copy. UNION LABEL TRADES DEPARTMENT OF THE A.F. OF L. Washington, D. C., April 1, 1911. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 29th relative to the subject matter as contained in Resolution #36, as adopted by the last Convention of the American Federation of Labor, came duly to hand and contents noted. In reply would say that this resolution was also considered at the last Convention of the Workingmen's State Federation of Labor, of New York, held at Niagara Falls last year. At that time I discussed informally with Mr. Morris DeYoung, who was the delegate from the Brooklyn Central Labor Union to that Convention, the entire subject matter of Union Label Fairs. Let me say that these Union Label Fairs have been held in many localities during the past year, but have not proved very successful. There are various reasons for this; among them being, first, that it is a difficult matter to induce manufacturers to make a display of Union Labeled products at these fairs, because of the expense attached to the same, that is, the cost of installing an exhibit, together with the cost of those who they would have to pay to be in charge of the same. Then again the Central Labor Unions under whose directions these Union Label Fairs are held, are not in328 Mr. Samuel Gompers--2 a position to purchase any large amount of articles and place the same on sale. You will note that the resolution as introduced and adopted declares the Union Label Fair held by the Brooklyn Central Labor Union was successful; while on the other hand the letter of Secretary Nicols of that organization states that, "after four years of hard work, we find that the results have no proven satisfactory." Then goes on and requests that a "circuit of label fairs be arranged to go from town to town." As to this proposition I beg leave to state that in my judgment, it is not practical. To do this would necessitate the expenditure of a considerable amount of money in buying what would only be samples of various products bearing the Union Label, which in itself would not necessitate a great financial outlay, but it would require the services of someone, together with railroad fare, hotel and other expenses, which amount of money this Department with its limited income would be unable to expend. The great trouble is in many instances, that while our members and friends who are desirous of purchasing Union-made goods, and ask for the label upon the same, and when told by the retailer that they have not that article with the Union Label in stock, they immediately proceed to buy of the same dealer an article not bearing the Union Label and which undoubtedly is non-union made, thereby giving the dealer at least the impression that they are not sincere in their efforts to purchase Union-made commodities. Let me say that this Department has issued a directory containing a list of all manufacturers who are using the Union Label of the various organizations affiliated upon their products. Fifteen329 Mr. Samuel Gompers--3 thousand copies of the same having been published, and that issue is now almost entirely exhausted, and demands are coming in to this office every day for them in large and small quantities. There is no question but what the demand for Union-made products has been on the increase and is steadily growing, but I fail to see where in establishing a circuit of Union Label Fairs, that at the best could not remain in any city or town longer than a day or two, where any material results could be accomplished. Hoping that this information fully answers your inquiries, and with best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Thomas F. Tracy Secretary-Treasurer.330 M April 4, 1911. Mr. Richard Samuel, Secretary, Miners' Local Union No. 916, Box 425, Hiteman, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis, has advised me of the difficulty the travelling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do [to] [p]ut an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore, suggest that a committee should be [ap-]331 R. S. 2. pointed your local union to wait upon the “Hiteman Supply Company” to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with the Company. I would appreciate if you would let me have a word from in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*332*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] M April 4, 1911. Mr. J. T. Cobley, Secretary, Miners Local Union No. 1121, Hocking, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed333 J. T. Cobley 2. [ap-]pointed by your local union to wait upon "The Hocking Supply Company" to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with the Company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.334 M April 4, 1911. Mr. B. S. Walker, Secretary, Musicians Local Union No. 305, Buxton, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be ap-335 B. S. W. 2. [ap]pointed by your local union to wait upon "The Monroe Mercantile Company" to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with the Company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.336 COPIED. APR 4 1911 April 4, 1911. M Mr. George Hall, Secretary, Cigarmakers Local Union No. 328, 219 West Adams St., Creston, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis, has advised me of the difficulty the travelling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instead stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be ap- 337 George Hall 2. pointed by your local union to wait upon "The Mickel McGregor Furniture Company" to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with the company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 338 COPIED. APR 4 1911 M April 4, 1911. Mr. E. H. Wolfemberg, Secretary, Typographical Union No. 484, c/o Model Printing Co., Muskogee, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis, has advised me of the difficulty the travelling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be ap- [*339*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] E. R. W. 2. pointed by your local union to wait upon the Shirrar and Bartleson Hardware Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests or organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with the company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*340*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] M April 4, 1911. Mr. J. O. Maloney, Secretary, Carpenters Local Union No. 1943. Box 354, Henryetta, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis, has advised me of the difficulty the travelling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be appointed341 J. O. M. pointed by your local union to wait upon the Mackey Hardware Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with the company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. [*342*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] M April 3, 1911. Mr. H. R. Helzel, Secretary, Typographical Union No. 565, 711East Delaware St., McAlester, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis, has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendlyrelations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases now pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be appointed[*343*] [*COPIED. Apr 4 1911*] H. R. H. 2. by your local union to wait upon the G. M. Chaney Furniture Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.344 Z April 4, 1911. Mr. Clyde Runion, Secretary, Trades Council, 424 So. Blaine St., Wellington, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be ap-345 Mr. Clyde Runion--2. appointed by your central body to wait upon the French Hitchcock and Son to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*346*} [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. M. V. Tubbs, Secretary, Industrial Labor Council, Girard, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed347 Mr. M. V. Tubbs---2. [ap]pointed by your central body to wait upon I. H. Shannon to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the best interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*348*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. A. M. Cochren, Secretary, Trades Council, Mulberry, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed[*349*] Mr. A. M. Cochren--2. by your central body to wait upon the Miller Brothers and Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes,I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*350*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. Otis T. Whiting, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, 222 E. First Avenue, Hutchinson, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother:. From time to time the President of the Buck’s Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove desires for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck’s stores and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude or organized labor to the Buck’s Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relation now existing between organized labor and the Buck’s Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck’s Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor’s friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the Hoey Hardware Co. [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] 351 Mr. Otis T. Whiting—-2. to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor’s present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*352*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. Albert C. Piche, Secretary, Trades and labor Assembly, Wichita, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck’s Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck’s stoves and ranges, the dealer in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck’s stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck’s Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck’s Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor’s friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] 353 Mr. Albert C. Piche- - -2. pointed by you central body to wait upon the Levy’s Furniture Co., to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor’s present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*354*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. C. R. Kimball, Secretary, Central Labor Council, 239 N. 2nd Street, Salina, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck’s Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon store dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck’s Stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck’s Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck’s Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck’s Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor’s friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed [*355*] Mr. C. R. Kimball--2. pointed by your central body to wait upon the Vallet Pond Hardware Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word form you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*]Copied APR 4 1911 LF April 3, 1911 Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 30th ultimo is received and I carefully noted all that you say in regard to the situation in Albany. In reply, let me say that we have arranged to have Organizer J. D. Pierce to go to Albany in the very near future for the purpose of endeavoring to unite the warring factions of that city and restore harmony and cooperation of action among the various organizations affiliated with the central body, or to take such action as will restore unity in the labor movement of that city. Thanking you for your letter and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.357 [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. F. A. Irwin, Aecretary, Central Labor Council, 303 E. 15th Street, Pittsburg, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's Stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possible do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed[*358*] Mr. F. A. Irwin--S. by your central body to wait upon the Pittsburg Stove Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclose circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*][*359*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] Z April 3, 1911. Mr. F. W. Floyd, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 2307 Morgan Avenue, Parsons, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis had advised of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's Stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed360 Mr. F. W. Floyd---2. [ap]pointed by your central body to wait upon Ellis and Martin to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor360 Mr. F. W. Floyd---2. by your central body to wait upon Ellis and Martin to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*361*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 3, 1911. Mr. C. L. Potter, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 847 Pennsylvania St., Lawrence, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possible do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friend and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be ap-362 Mr. C. L. Potter---2. by your central body to wait upon Mr. Herman Brocker to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*363*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 3, 1911. Mr. Edwin A. Silger, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Lock Box 322, Independence, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's Stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be ap-[*364*] Mr. Edwin A. Silger---2. [ap]pointed by your central body to wait upon the Central Hardware Company and J. A. Jakowsky to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*365*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 3, 1911 Mr. L. L. Lawrence, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 809 West 11th St., Coffeyville, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's Stove and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be ap-[*366*] Mr. L. L. Lawrence---2. pointed by your central body to wait upon the Ishman Hardware Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*367*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 3, 1911. Miss Olena McNatt, Secretary, Trades Council, 1016 North 26th St., Birmingham, Ala. Dear Madam: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be ap-[*368*] Miss Olean McNatt---2. pointed by your central body to wait upon the W.H. Ferris Furniture Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*369*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] Z April 3, 1911. Mr. L. D. Browne, Secretary, Central Trades Council, P. O. Box 206, Mobile, Alabama. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relation now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be ap-[*370*] Mr. L. D. Browne---2. appointed by your central body to wait upon the Kelly-Brady Hardware Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*371*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] Z April 3, 1911. Mr. H. M. Jenkins, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 61 Albany Ave., Waycross, Ga. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed[*372*] [*COPIED. APR 3 1911 Mr. H. M. Jenkins---2. appointed by your central body to wait upon the Watt Hardware Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*373*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] Z April 3, 1911. Mr. R. S. Moylan, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, Box 283, Savannah, Georgia. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's Stove and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed[*374*] [*COPIED*] Mr. R. S. Moylan---2. appointed by your central body to wait upon the Haverty Furniture Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*375*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. E. J. Emmerton, Secretary, Local #112, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Box 623, Butte, Montana. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 29th ult., and to thank you for the clipping you enclose. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*376*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. Wm. J. Coates, Second Vice-President, Washington State Federation of Labor, 311 Sprague Ave., Spokane, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 29th received and contents noted. You state that as Chairman of the Organization Committee of the Central Labor Union, you have been requested to write me in regard to the jurisdiction over moving picture machine operators. Now, in regard to this general subject matter, I beg to advise you that the seventeenth annual convention of the American Federation of Labor held at Nashville, Tennessee, 1897, decided that all work done back of the curtain is to be done under the jurisdiction of the Theatrical Stage Employes' International Alliance. This declaration of the Nashville Convention, however, did not include either engineers or firemen. Some claim arose between the Theatrical Stage Employes and the Brotherhood of Electrical Workers as to disputed points of jurisdiction. This matter, however, was referred to the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. to bring about an adjustment. By direction of the Executive Council I have participated in several conferences between the representatives of the two organizations. As further directed by the St. Louis convention of the A. F. of L.[*377*] [*COPIED*] Mr. Wm. J. Coates -2- held in November, 1910, I have been in correspondence with the Executive Officers of the two national organizations with the object in view of arranging another conference at a time mutually convenient. I have not yet been able to arrange the conference at a timeconvenient for both organizations, but I trust that I may success in making satisfactory arrangements in the very near future. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*378*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. Dennis Mahar, Chairman, Committee, Schnectady Typographical Union #167, 269 State Street, Schnectady, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 31st received and contents noted. I beg to assure you, and through you the other officers and members of Typographical Union #167, of my appreciation of your invitation to attend the banquet of celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the organization, on the evening of May 20, and for the purpose of making an address. It would afford me pleasure to accept your invitation, but I fear that in view of my present engagements it would not be within my power to do so. With very best wishes for success and an enjoyable evening, and hoping to hear from you again whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*379*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] April 4, 1911 LF No. 35. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: I recently saw a copy of a circular letter issued by President Moyer of the Western Federation of Miners, under date of February 15th to the membership of the Western Federation of Labor, in conformity with the decision given at our January meeting. Upon my request he has sent me a number of copies of that circular. You will please find one enclosed herein, which should be kept as part of your records in this case. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor Enclosure:[*380*] [*COPIED APRIL 4, 1911*] April 4, 1911 X. Hon. David Lubin, Delegate, Institut International d'Agriculture, Rome, Italy. My dear Mr. Lubin: Your favor of March the 22d. is just received and contents noted. By this time you will have received my letter to you of a few days ago and I hope the express package containing the five thousand copies of the document. Several days after my letter to you of the ninth of March confirming my cable, the telegraph company notified me that the cable was not delivered in Rome by reason of the party being unknown. I took the matter up with the Manager of the company. I told him the the cablegram was addressed just as you directed and that you were well known in Rome. He said that the failure to deliver cablegrams in diplomatic circles and otherwise was a very common occurrence, owing to the system of cables and telegrams on the other side. I wanted him to cable repeating the address as being correct, but he said that would be just the same as a second cablegram, and therefore, knowing that you would have my letter a day or two later, I let the matter drop. It is too late now to make the insertion in the five thousand copies of the document you request, as they were expressed to you some days ago.[*381*] [*COPIED*] Hon. David Lubin -2- You say that you are enclosing a copy of the communication you sent to the Minister of Agriculture of France, but it was not enclosed. I wish you would send it to me in your next letter. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you frequently, I am, Very sincerely yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*382*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] April 4, 1911. X. Mr. C. R. Cameron, Chairman, Invitation Committee, National Democratic Achievement Banquet, Murat Temple, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of March the 30th, I beg to say that it will be impossible for me to go to Indianapolis to attend the Jefferson's Birthday Banquet on April the 13th, as I have important engagements in the East for that date. Thanking you for the courtesy of your invitation, I am, Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*383*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] X. April 3, 1911. Mr. H. L. Howell, Secretary, Central Trades Assembly, 1322 1/2 Franklin St., Tampa, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March the 27th addressed to me at Atlanta, Georgia, has just reached my hands, it having been forwarded here as it was received in Atlanta after I had left that city. Even if it had reached me in time owing to other engagements it would have been impossible for me to have accepted your invitation to return to Washington by way of Tampa. You know the early part of this year I had intended going to Tampa and so expressed myself, but it did not seem from my correspondence that my visit there at that time was necessary or desired. With kind regards and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*384*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] X. April 3, 1911 Mr. Jerome Jones, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 14 1/2 N. Forsythe St., Atlanta, Ga. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 31 received and contents noted. I am very sorry that I did not know that Mrs. Harris and her son wanted to see me. I need scarcely say to you how very much pleased I would have been to have again seen them. However, I look forward to meeting them again next November during the convention of the A. F. of L., that is, if I am permitted to attend that convention. When you see them I would like you to convey my sincerest regards and good wishes. I wish you would let me have a word from you as to your meeting with the Executive Board of the State Federation. Thanks for your kind inquiry in regard to Mrs. Gompers. She is improving slowly but the sudden changes in the weather here affect her disagreeably. She is able now to be up and around the room, but it will be quite some time before she will be strong enough to go out. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*P.S. Mrs G is by [?] [?] [?] with [?]*][8385*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Ernest Mills, Secretary-Treasurer Western Federation of Miners, 605 Railroad Building, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Please accept my thanks for your letter of March 29th and the 15 copies of President Moyer's circular letter of February 15th, which I requested he should send me. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*386*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 4,1911 Mr. Paul G. Ham[m]ond, 528 12th [S]t., New K[e]nsington, Pa. Dear Sir: In reply to your postal card of the 2nd instant just received, I am enclosing you price list of labor literature published by this office. Should you desire to obtain any of data on [th]e enclosed list, we will be glad to fill your order. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*387*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 4,1911 Mr. Thomas A. Hill, Secretary Turpentine Workers Union #13113, 105 Sidney St. W. S., Bay City, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 25th is received in which you enclose three copies of the Union Label contract signed by the President of your organization and the Michigan Turpentine Co., and which you submit for approval by the undersigned. You say that this company wants to put the American Federation of Labor label on every bottle of turpentine, small tar cans holding less than 1/2 pint and all other small products of which thousands are turned out weekly. Before signing the agreement, I would like for you to advise me further and more definitely just exactly what are the other products besides turbentine and small tar cans, upon which this company desires to use the label. Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor[*388*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Mr. D. D'Allesandro, President International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers' Union 82 State St., Albany, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Organizer James Hawthorne, of Troy, New York, he says: "Inasmuch as the International Union saw fit to come into my district to establish a local known as 207 Hod Carriers and Building Laborers and give the commission to one Brother D'Alessandro, as organizer I demand through the American Federation that the commission be turned over to me or my commission as organizer will be declared vacant immediately, as I will not be dictated to in regard to my duties by any body other than the American Federation of Labor. I have several moves on foot to bring about the formation of unions of different crafts in this vicinity which I propose to drop now if this International is not forced to pay me my commission for the formation of Local #207 which I claim is my right as Organizer in this vicinity. I will further state that the Brother in the formation of said local ignored me as organizer in this district. Would further say that I know no man has the right to come in to my locality and organize a local of any kind without first consulting me. I also thoroughly understand that the commission on all locals formed in this locality belong to me, therefore as your organizer in this matter I demand the proper protection from the American Federation of Labor." I have not yet made any reply to Mr. Hawthorne and before doing so would like to have a word from you in regard to the above. Hoping to receive your early reply, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*389*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] April 3, 1911 Mr. W. G. Rudnall, Organizer 611 Thirteenth St., Lynchburg, Va Dear Sir and Brother: I have read your favor of March 30th with a great deal of interest and am again communicating with President Tobin of the Boot and Shoe Workers Union, sending him copy of your letter to me for whatever action he may be able to take in the premises. Hoping to hear from you further at your convenience, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*390*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Mr. John F. Tobin, President Boot and Shoe Workers Union 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to the Boot and Shoe Workers of Lynchburg, Va. I beg to say that Organizer W. D. Hudnall writes me further under date of March 30th, as follows: "I will try and give you some news in regard to the Shoe Workers strike. The strike is unsuccessful so far, but the most of them are still out, but some have gone back and Mr. Armstrong has gone somewhere else. He said to the strikers on Monday night to report for work Tuesday morning that the trouble was settled, but when they reported for work ten were taken back and the rest were informed that they would be sent for when needed. So the strikers are not satisfied at all and it was told me today that they held a meeting last night and resolved to stick together in the future. Now, I believe that these people can be gotten into the Boot and Shoe Workers Union if they will send a good organizer here now and let him stay some time for it will take him sometime to do it. I am writing Pres. Tobin in regard to this. I am gathering information in certain charges against Armstrong and the Craddock Terry Co. and will write you again." It seemed to me that you should have the above information for whatever action you may be able to take in the premises. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*391*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] April 5, 1911 LF Mr. John Morrison 25 Third Ave., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of March 30th is received and contents noted. You request copy of the Manufacturers Census taken last May by United States special agent Fox River Valley District. I made inquiry and am advised that this will not be published before the first of May. I, therefore, suggest that you write me again about that time as a reminder and I will endeavor to have a copy sent to you. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*392*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, President, Molders' Union of North America, 530 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of April first, I beg to say that we shall endeavor to have organizer [Tagelaer?] remain in Holyoke just as long as we possibly can. I cannot now say definitely when it will be necessary to send him to another field, but you may rest assured we will do our best to comply with the request of organized labor of that city. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*393*] [*COPIED APR 4 1911*] X. April 3, 1911. Mr. Chas. T. Fahey, Secretary, Holyoke Typographical Union No. 253, 125 Newton Street, Holyoke, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your undated favor received today, I beg to say that we shall endeavor to have Organizer Taselaar remain in Holyoke just as long as we possibly can. I cannot now say definitely when it will be necessary to send him to another field, but you may rest assured we will do our best to comply with the request of organized labor of your city. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*394*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] X April 3, 1911. Mr. Charles B. Eddy, Secretary, General Labor Union, 1031 Vassay Ave., South Bend, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 29th is at hand, and I note what you say relative to the Carpenters Union at Mishawaka, and I am by this mail writing to President Huber, of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, requesting him to urge upon his local the advisability and necessity of being represented in the General Labor Union in accordance with Section 2, Article XI of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, and trust this may have the desired result. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*395*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Y. April 4, 1911. Mr. H. L. Howell, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Assembly, Box #317, Tampa, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends[*396*] Mr. H. L. Howell---2 and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the Tampa Hardware Company and Hodge & Sherman, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*397*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Y. April 4, 1911. Mr. H. L. Persinger, Secretary, Trades Council, #200 E. First Street, Austin, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and rangers, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will find a copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possible do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled[*398*] Mr. H. L. Persinger---2 entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the Swan Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*399*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] April 4, 1911. Mr. Marshall Johnston, Secretary, Trades Council, #721 Lewis Street, San Antonio, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers from the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stove and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled[*400*] Mr. Marshall Johnston ----2 entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon "The Household Furniture Company," to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.401 Y. Copied Apr 4, 1911. April 4, 1911. Mr. J. H. Oedamer, Secretary, General Labor Council, #615 Main Street, Dallas, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*402*] Mr. C. H. Oedamer---2 I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the Haverty Furnishing Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*403*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Y. April 4, 1911. Mr. R. W. Walker, Secretary, Trades Assembly, Box 167, Fort Worth, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stoves and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possible do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled[*404*] Mr. R. W. Walker ----2 entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the Veihl-Crawford Co. and Fakes and Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*405*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Y. April 4, 1911. Mr. D. R. Tomkins, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, Box 21, Palestine, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stove and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possible do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends[*406*] Mr. D. H. Tomkins ----2 and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the Silliman Hardware Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth by the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*407*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Y. April 4, 1911. Mr. George B. Edgell, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council 315 Delaware Street, Leavenworth, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*408*] Mr. George B. Edgell ---- 2 I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the Atwater Hardware Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*409*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Y. April 41, 1911 Mr. G. D. Bell, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 533 Park Avenue, Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of the Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of a circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends[*410*] Mr. G. D. Bell----2 and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the Holzmark Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*411*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] April 4, 1911. Mr. W. H. Kerle, Secretary, Industrial Council, #1311 West Tenth Avenue, Topeka, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of a circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled[*412*] Mr. W.H. Kerle------2. entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon the firm of Mcahizer and Spielman, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*413*] Y. COPIED. APR 4 1911 April 4, 1911. Mr. Thomas Lane, Secretary, Trades and Labor Congress, #1400 L. Street, Atchison, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitudes of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do to put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is en-[*414*] Mr. Thomas Lane----2 entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon Mr. Theodore Intfen, to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*415*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Y. April 4, 1911. Mr. T. A. Estabrook, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, #511 Third Street, Fort Madison, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitudes of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that[*416*] Mr. T. J. Estabrook-------2 all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon Mr. J. C. Ineggering, to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*417*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Y. April 4, 1911. Mr. R. King, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, #511 Drake Avenue, Centerville, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all[*418*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Mr. R. King ---- 2. labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon Mr. C. A. Patman, to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regards to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*419*] [*COPIED. APR 4, 1911*] Y. April 4, 1911. Mr. A. T. Rebey, Secretary, Co-operative Trades and Labor Assembly, Box # 505, Lawton, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all[*420*] Mr. A. T. Rebey ---- 2. labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your central body to wait upon "The Benbow-Norton Hardware Co." to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*421*] [*COPIED. APRIL 4 1911*] M. April 4, 1911. Mr. A. Gladieux, Secretary, Miners Local Union No. 210, Weir, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the travelling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be appointed[*422*] A. Gladieux 2. appointed by your local union to wait upon the "B. W. Crowe & Company" to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with the Company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regards to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*423*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. C. B. Allen, Secretary, Typographical Union No. 408, P. O. Box 55, Ottawa, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be appointed[*424*] Mr. C. B. Allen ---- 2. appointed by your central body to wait upon Mr. George W. Lathrop to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*425*]' [COPIED. APR 4 1911] April 4, 1911. Mr. J. W. Shirley, Secretary, Boiler Maker' L. U. #403 P. O. Box 505, Hossington, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitudes of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do to put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be appointed [*426*] Mr. J. W. Shirley ---- 2. [*COPIED.*] appointed by your local union to wait upon The George Nuss and Co., to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interest of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*427*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. P. Thompson, Secretary, Boiler Maker' L. U. #393 P. O. Box 334, Goodland, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitudes of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do to put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*][*428*] Mr. P. Thompson ----2. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your local union to wait upon Mr. John W. Bock to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*429*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. L. Hickey, Secretary, Machinists' L. U. #671, Ellis, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed [*430*] Mr. L. Hickey--2. appointed by your local union to wait upon Mr. George Henderson, to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interests of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I should appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*431*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. Wilfrid Cavaness, Secretary, Typographical Union #608, c/o The Tribune, Chanute, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be appointed[*432*] Mr. Wilfrid Cavaness----2. appointed by your local union to wait upon Mr. C. E. Davis and Mr. G. C. Dates, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I should appreciate if if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*433*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. Grant Darter, Secretary, Miners' L. U. #1088, Cherokee, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*434*] Mr. Grant Darter ---2. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your local union to wait upon the Cherokee Hardware Co. to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*435*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. J. C. MacMillan, Secretary, Miners' L. U. 2425, Route No. 3, Columbus, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would, therefore, suggest that a committee should be appointed[*436*] Mr. J. C. MacMillan ----2. appointed by your local union to wait upon Mr. H. A. Scovell to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*437*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. Burt Hammers, Secretary, Miners' L. U. #2864, Route 1, Scammon, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed[*438*] Mr. Burt Hammers---2. by your local union to wait upon the J. T. Small and Co. to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the best interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*439*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. G. A. Hathway, Secretary Carpenters' L. U. #1356, 804 E. 3rd Ave., Winfield, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*440*] Mr. G. A. Hathway--2. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your local union to wait upon the J. G. McGregor Hardware Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*441*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. S. T. Sample, Secretary, Boiler Makers' L. U. #523, P. O. Box 329, Pratt, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.442 [*COPIED*] [*COPIED*] Mr. S. T. Sample---2. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed by your local union to wait upon the Hopper Hardware Co., to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*443*] [*COPIED. APR 4, 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. Thos. King, Secretary, Miners' L. U. #1701, Route No. 8, Osage City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that Company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed444 [*COPIED*] Mr. Thomas King ----2. by your local union to wait upon Charles J. Rapp to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President. American Federation of Labor. [*445*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. M. S. Baker, Secretary, Carpenters' L. U. #663, 120 E. 4th St., Junction City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, and would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed[*446*] Mr. M. S. Baker---2. [appointed] by your local union to wait upon Hickey and Dickson to formally and officially advise him of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President. American Federation of Labor.[*447*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] Z April 4, 1911. Mr. Louis Nielson, Secretary, Retail Clerks' L. U. #799, Care Pettit and Lamb, Herington, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. I would therefore suggest that a committee should be appointed448 Mr. Louis Nielson [*COPIED Apr 4 1911*] pointed by your local union to wait upon the C. N. Tufts and Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*449*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Harry Mountford, Secretary, Board of Directors White Rats Actors' Union of America 1553 Broadway, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 8th was duly received and contents noted. Delay in answering same has been caused by the fact that our new lists of affiliated organizations had not yet been printed. They have just now been received from the printer and in compliance with your request I am sending you, under separate cover three copies of the same. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel L. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.450 [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mrs. Hyacinth Lount, 2004 N Charles St., Baltimore, Md. My dear Madam: Your favor of April 3rd has been duly received and contents noted. I should like to be in a position to comply with your request, but I regret to say that at present there is no vacancy on the clerical force in the offices of the American Federation of Labor. I can only say that I shall be glad to place your name and address upon our records for future reference in the event of any vacancy occurring. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.451 [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. J. J. Fitzpatrick, Organizer Room 501, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Illinois, Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copies of two letters I have received from R. S. Johnson of Chicago, and copy of my reply dated March 17th, in answer to his letter dated March 14th. I note that he has seen you. He states that you advised him that in order to get a charter for a local union of Metal Polishers it would be necessary for him to correspond with me. You will note what he says in his letter of March 27th. I cannot understand the situation. I do not know the circumstances. I do not want to write him any further. You are upon the ground and I would like for you to get in communication with him, saying that I have referred the entire matter to you, at the same time suggesting that you should advise him that his course of action should be in accord with the local union of Metal Polishers in Chicago. I note with great deal of interest that you have received the trade unionists' reward of merit at the hand of the Socialist politicians of Chicago.[*452*] Mr. J. J. Fitzpatrick --2 With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you in connection with this at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosures:453 LF Copy. R. S. Johnson, 3754 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill., 3/14/11 Mr. Samuel Gompers. President, A. F. of L. Dear Sir and Brother: I want you to give me full instructions as to cost and tell me just how to go about it, I want to form an independent Lathers Union in the City of Chicago. I have enough practical lathers to take charge of any job in the city and we want to become affiliated with the A. F. of L. I was down to see Mr. Fitzpatrick of the C. F. of L. and he told me that in order to get a charter I would have to correspond with you. I assure you that our local will not conflict with the W. W. and M. L. I. U. now in Chicago, but will maintain as high a wage scale and the same working hours. I represent men who have been discriminated against by the locals of the L. I. U. now in Chicago and are at present being hindered in their attempts to earn a livelihood. This is a matter of vital importance to all concerned, so please answer at once giving full information in regards to every detail and technicality. Expecting an immediate reply and thanking you in advance, I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) R. S. Johnson.[*454*] LF Copy. Washington, D. C., March 17, 1911 Mr. R. S. Johnson, 3754 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is received and contents noted. You desire advice as to organizing an independent union of lathers in Chicago, to be directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. I beg to say in reply that under the laws of the American Federation of Labor a charter could not be issued to any organization, the trade of which properly comes under the jurisdiction of an existing organization, unless it be with the consent of the affiliated body. Under these circumstances you will very readily appreciate the fact that unless the Lathers' International Union would give its consent to the A. F. of L. issuing a charter to the local union of lathers in Chicago, favorable action could not be taken upon any such application. I would recommend that you take the matter up direct with the executive officers of the International Union of Wood, Wire and Metal Lathers, Mr. Ralph V. Brandt, Secretary, 401 Superior Building, Cleveland, Ohio. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.455 LF' COPY 3754 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. March 27, 1911. Mr. Samuell Gompers, Pres. A. F. of L., Dear Sir and Brother: You favor and of the 17th instant duly received and in reply to your recommendation that I take the matter up with the executive officers of the Wood, Wire and Metal Lathers International Union I would like to say; I have explained the matter to Mr. Brandt and Mr. Mcsorley and they have not given me a square deal, that is why I wrote to you. Had they not discriminated against me I would have had no cause to take the matter up with you. I would like for you to take the matter up with them for me, give it your personal attention. I was turned down by the Chicago local even though I had a paid-up due book and a clear transfer. I took up the matter with Pres. McSorley and Sec. Brandt and they did not do one thing to see that I got justice although I was in good standing and never had been fined or suspended. I am not the only one treated this was. I know of several more. It is simply a case of drawing the color line, and I ask you to see that justice be dealt me. My number at headquarters is 7218, so you can look at my record if Pres. McSorley permits and see for yourself that I am not getting justice. Hoping to hear from you soon, I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) R. S. Johnson.456 [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] LF April 3, 1911 Mr. Louis Dilno, Recording Secretary Trades and Labor Assembly, Box 560, Great Falls, Montana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 25th is received and contents noted. Secretary Morrison and I are also in receipt of several letters from Organizer D. E. Waldie. The communications from both of you deal with the matter of the appointment of Mr. Waldie as special organizer for Great Falls and vicinity. I beg to say in reply that we are not at all unmindful of the situation as set forth in the several letters received from you and as indicated in your telegram of March 24th. We should like to be in a position to act upon your recommendation and request for Mr. Waldie's appointment as special organizer, but owing to financial reasons it is absolutely impossible for his appointment to be made. Of course you appreciate the fact [?] we are constantly in receipt of just such urgent [?] [? tions] from other sections of the country. The funds [?tion] are [*457*] Mr. Louis Dilno--2 Extremely meagre. We have been and are doing everything within our financial means in the way of special organization work. It would be worse than folly to appoint additional men and then not have the funds with which to meet their expenses and the salaries which would be due them. As you know, last year from May 4 to August 24 we had special organizer C. O. Young stationed at Great Falls. You will agree with me that in view of the numerous requests constantly received for the assistance of special organizers to have one man to devote his entire time for nearly four months certainly shows the intention and desire of the American Federation of Labor to assist to the very fullest limit of its ability. It would appear with that much assistance the movement should be able to continue the work on its own responsibility. I request that you kindly show this letter to Mr. Waldie and ask him to accept it as equally addressed to him. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*458*] [*COPIED . APR 4 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 H. Le Soudier, 174 et 176 Boulevard Saint-Germain Paris, France. Dear Sir: Your card of March 25th has just been received and contents noted. As per your order, I am sending to you by parcels post, the bound volumes of the American Federationist from 1901 to 1910 inclusive, for which you will please find invoice enclosed and which I trust will be given your prompt attention. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure: In view of your being a book seller a discount of 10% is allowed on the invoice. Let me further add that upon inquiry, I find that it is very much cheaper to send by express instead of by parcels post, therefore the books have been shipped by express.459 COPIED. APR 4 1911 X. April 4, 1911 Mr. James O'Connell, President, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: I have just had a request from one of my correspondents in Austria for the address of some of the largest and most substantial machine factories, the object being, as my cor[??} to have an entirely new machine constructed. Will you kindly give me this information at your earliest convenience, and invoice. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*460*] [*COPIED. APR 4 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Herr Adolf v. Loach, Johannisburg, Germany. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of March the 22nd. I beg to say that I had your previous letter translated, as I do not either write or read German script, though I speak the German language and read the German print without difficulty. It would be impossible for me to undertake to advertise for you for information in regard to Friedrich Stich, who you say was a merchant and who you say died somewhere in the United States. I would suggest that if you will write to the Advertising Department of the New York World, New York City, U. S. A., stating what you desire and sending an International Post Office Money Order to pay for the advertisement, the matter will be given their attention. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*461*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LV April 4, 1911 Mr. Thomas J. McNamara, Secretary Intl. Assn. of Heat & Frost Insulators and Asbestos Workers, 1661 a Elliot Ave., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he call attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*462*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. F. M. Ryan, President Intl. Assn. of Bridge and Structural Iron Workers, American Central Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*463*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Thomas Atkinson, Secretary Amal. Society of Carpenters and Joiners, Room 76, Bible House, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.464 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Henry Ullner, Secretary American Brotherhood of Cement Workers, Mechanics Bank Building, Mason & Market Sts., San Francisco, California. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*465*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4,1911 Mr. Peter W. Collins, Secretary Inl. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Pierik Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Union could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*466*] [*COPIED APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Wm. Young, Secretary International Union of Elevator Constructors, 1952 North 19th St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers Organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*467*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Mat Comerford, President, International Union of Steam Engineers, 309 Temple Bar Annex, Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*468*] [*COPIED APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. James Duncan, Secretary Granite Cutters' International Association Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 469 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. D. D'Alessandro, President Hod Carriers and Building Laborers International Union, 32 State St., Albany, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*470*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Wm. J. McSorley, President Intl. Union of Wood, Wire and Metal Lathers, 401 Superior Bldg., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*471*] [*COPIED. APR 8 1911*] LF April 4,1911 Mr. Stephen C. Hogan, Secretary International Association of Marble Workers, 715 Eagle Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*472*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. James O'Connell, President International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may be render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*473*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. M. O'Sullivan, President Amal. Sheet Metal Works Intl. Alliance, 325 Nelson Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Union could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*474*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. J.C. Skemp, Secretary Bro. of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Drawer 89, Lafayette, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*475*] [*COPIED*] [*APR 5 1911*] LP April 4, 1911 Mr. T.A. Scully, Secretary Operative Plasterers International Association 442 East Second St., Middletown, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*476*] [*COPIED*] [*APR 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. John R. Alpine, President United Assn. of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, etc., 401 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*477*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4,1911 Mr. J. Hurley, President, The International Brotherhood of Composition Roofers, 312 Clark Ave., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Publishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*478*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 4,1911 Mr. Geo. M. Huddleston, President , International Union Slate and Tile Roofers, 601 4th St. N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Publishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor479 [*COPIED. Apr 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. James F. McHugh, Secretary Journeymen Stone Cutters' Assn. of North America 520 6th St. N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.480 [*COPED Apr 5 1911*] LF April 4, 1911 Mr. Jas P. Reynolds, Secretary Intl. Ceramic, Tile Layers and Helpers, etc. Union, Harmony, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter recently received from Secretary Bohm of the New York Central Federated Union he calls attention to the fact that the Metal Polishers Union of New York City has for some months endeavored to secure from the chandelier manufacturers union conditions for the men in their employ. He expresses the opinion that the Building Trades Unions could be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. I am, therefore, writing to request that you kindly take this matter up with your New York locals, to the end that they may render whatever assistance they can to the Metal Polishers organization in the effort which it is making to secure union conditions for the men of that trade. Thanking you in advance for whatever you may be able to do in the matter, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*481*] [*COPIED APR 5 1911*] LF April 5, 1911 Mr. Cornelius Ford, Organizer, 808 Bloomfield St., Hoboken, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother Your favor of the 3rd instant is at hand and contents noted. I am very much pleased indeed that you were finally able to secure a satisfactory adjustment of the trouble between Bedstead Makers Union #12781 and the Mesrole Bed Company. I fully approve the corse you followed in this matter and congratulate you upon securing an adjustment. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*482*] [*COPIED*] [*APR 5 1911*] M April 6, 1911 Mr. H. L. ?ichelberger, Bri? Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. ???? Sir: Replying to yours of the 4th I would say that there was someone I don't know who, who informed Mr. Gompers that he saw the articles in the Sunday Philadelphia Ledger the week previous to the date when he spoke to Mr. Gompers. I presume as you are unable to locate the article we may as well let the matter drop. Very truly yours, R. L. G???? Secretary to President Gompers[*483*] [*COPIED*] [*APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #38. Mr. John G. Meller, Secretary, Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union of America, 5538 N. Albany Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: You will recall the action taken by the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor endorsing the agreement for the amalgamation of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and the Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union into one organization, also the report of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. made to the St. Louis Convention in regard thereto. The Executive Council's report to that convention is as follows: "The Toronto Convention endorsed an agreement for the amalgamation of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and the Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union into one organization and instructed your Executive Council to carry into effect the details of the proposed agreement. At our meeting last March we directed our president that if either organization failed to ratify the agreement, he should call a conference of the executive officers of both organizations in conjunction with one member of the Executive Council, for the purpose of carrying out the instructions of the Toronto Convention. President Gompers immediately entered into correspondence with the executive officers of both organizations with that purpose in view. The Executive Board of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters gave the opinion that as the plan of consolidation as authorized by the Toronto Convention is practically the same as previously adopted by the Minneapolis Convention and approved by a referendum Vote of the entire membership of the United Brotherhood, under date of May 13, 1907, that the vote still stands, and that a matter once[*484*] Mr. John G. Miler -2- disposed of by referendum vote of the entire membership becomes the action of the entire organization unless ordered by the next general convention to be re-submitted for a vote. Later, after the national convention of the United Brotherhood, we were advised that the convention accepted the plan of consolidation with the Amalgamated Wood Workers as proposed by our last annual convention, the consolidation to take effect November 1, 1910. The delegates from the Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union, as shown by the official proceedings of the Toronto Convention, opposed the passage of the report of the Committee on Adjustment on this subject. The General Executive Council of the Amalgamated Wood Workers and the membership at large approved this notion. The officers of the Amalgamated Wood Workers therefore expressed themselves as willing and ready to confer with the representatives of any body of organized workers with a view to the settlement of controversies, by they declined to enter into any conference with the U.B. of Carpenters with the object of affecting an amalgamation of the two organizations. We were reluctant to exercise the implied power contained in the action of the Toronto Convention, in so far as concerned the revocation of the charter of the Amalgamated Workers, inasmuch as the United Brotherhood of Carpenters has accepted the Toronto agreement if amalgamation and the Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union has rejected it, we recommend that unless the latter organization complies with the decision of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor and becomes amalgamated with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters on or before April 1, 1911, the action and decision of the Toronto Convention shall become effective on that date." That report was referred to the Adjustment Committee. After due consideration the committee made the following report: "On that portion of the report of the Executive Council under the caption 'United Brotherhood of Carpenters -- Amalgamated Wood Workers', the committee reported as follows: Your committee recommends the adoption of the recommendation of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, namely: 'That unless the Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union comply with the decision of the Toronto Convention of the American Federation of Labor, and become amalgamated with the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, on or before April 1, 1911, the action and decision of the Toronto Convention shall become effective on that date." After a thorough discussion of the entire matter when several motions were made, it was finally decided that "the same course be taken in regard to the Amalgamated Wood Workers and Carpenters as was taken by the St. Louis Convention in regard to the Elevator Constructors and Machinists and that it be referred to the Executive Council and a further effort made to bring about an honorable[*485*] Mr. John G. Meiler -3- able amalgamation". For your information I quote the action taken by the St. Louis Convention in regard to the Elevator Constructors and Machinists, as follows: "The Committee on Adjustment made this report. We therefore recommend that the terms proposed by the International Association of Machinists be accepted and adopted by the Elevator Constructors' International Union as a basis for settlement of the differences between those organizations; that the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. be instructed to use its good offices without delay to consummate the amalgamation of the Machinists and Elevator Constructors' International Union; and that the Executive Council for the American Federation of Labor become a party to the plan of amalgamation and settlement as a guarantee to the absolute fulfillment of its terms. We, your Committee, further recommend that the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. be authorized and instructed to take such action in the premises as may be deemed necessary to accomplish the desired result." Taking this action of the St. Louis Convention just quoted, substitute the names of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and the Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union instead of the International Association of Machinists and the Elevator Constructors' International Union where these names occur and the action of the St. Louis Convention in regard to the Wood Workers and Carpenters applies. When these matters were under consideration by the Executive Council, Secretary Morrison and the undersigned were instructed to take up this matter with both organizations in interest, and endeavor to bring about the amalgamation. In compliance therewith, this letter is addressed to you and a similar letter will be addressed to the officers of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners with a view of either having a conference, or by correspondence, and through either of these mediums to carry out the instructions of the American Federation of Labor. All will realize the importance of this matter, and the fact that the Executive Council is bound to carry into effect as fully as possible the instructions given. All of the officers of the organizations in interest are 486 Mr. John G. Ketler -4 therefore strongly urged to give the above their early and favorable consideration. Hoping to have a reply at your earliest possible convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. [*487*] [*APR 5 1911*] LF April 5, 1911 Mr. Wm. J. Spencer, Secretary, Building Trades Department, A.F. of L., 412 Duray Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant is received and contents noted. In compliance with your recommendation, I have issued commission to volunteer organizer for the United States to Mr. William Lynn, general organizer for the United Association of Journeyman Plumbers and have forwarded it to him to Richmond Hotel, Richmond Va., together with such printed matter and documents as well be of assistance to him in this work. Thanking you for the recommendation, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor [*488*] [*COPIED.*] [*APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 28. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will find a copy of a letter addressed to Mr. John G. Meiler, Secretary of the Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union of America, in connection with the instructions of the St. Louis Convention of the American Federation of Labor and per order of the Executive Council. For convenience I would be pleased if you will accept this copy of the letter as equally addressed to the officers of the United Brotherhood through you. The suggestions and requests contained therein also apply to you and your colleagues, I strongly urge that every effort be made by the United Brotherhood and its officials for the purpose of helping in bringing about the desired result, that is, amalgamation. Thank you in advance and counting upon the co-operation of yourself and associates, and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor[*489*] [*COPIED*] [APR 5 1911*] M April 5, 1911 Mr. John R. Alpine, President United Assn. Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, etc., 401 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill Dear Sir and Brother: Mr. Wm. J. Spencer, Secretary of the Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor has just suggested to me the advisability of issuing a commission as volunter organizer of the United States to Mr. William Lynn, general organizer for the United Association of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters and Steam Fitters Helpers. I take it that this meets with your full approval and I have issued a commission in conformity therewith. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.[*490*] [*COPIED.*] [*APR 5 1911*] LP April 4, 1911 Mr. Thomas H. Flynn, President Organization Committee, Federated Railroad Trades, 50 Grape St., Mt. Oliver Sta., Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant is received and contents noted. You say that it would be most difficult for you to leave Pittsburg now to go to Patton, as requested in my previous letter. Let me say in reply that it is unnecessary for you to go until after the conference on Wednesday or until two or three days thereafter, if necessary. When I placed the matter in your hands, I took full consideration of the work in which you are engaged. I consider it necessary that you should go to Patton, make an investigation of the situation there and report to me and I will then be in a position to know just what can be done in the premises. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*491*] [*COPIED.*] [APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. F.J. Barton, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 540 Athabasca Ave., Edmonton, Alta., Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: I have just received your very interesting letter of March the 27th and have read it with a great deal of interest. I congratulate you upon the good work which you have accomplished. In compliance with your request, I enclose to you herein list of organizations affiliated to the A.F. of L., together with the names of addresses of their respective secretaries. If there is any further data or printed matter which you desire, please advise me when it will be promptly sent to you. I note that the Trades Council has made arrangements to pay your salary for some time to come so that you can devote your entire time to the work of organization in your locality. It might be that some of the printed matter from this office would be of assistance to you in this work. If so, I should be glad to send it on. Having succeeded in organizing and making application for charters for the United Garment Workers, Printing Pressmen, and being about ready to make application for charter for the Bakers, I do not think that you have any cause to be discouraged with the work you have done, I fully realize that the way of an organizer is not all roses, but that he encounters many thorns. Let me hear from you492 Mr. P. J. Barton -2- again, and with best wishes for success, believe me to be, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*493*] [*COPIED*] [*APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. Louis T Romanoli, Organizer, Local #56, Journeymen Tailors' Union, 2410 South Clarion St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the second instant received, in which you make report of the Italian Congress held in Philadelphia a few days ago. You say that you will shortly send me the printed proceedings of that meeting. I shall await with interest your further report. I am making note of the entire matter for reference to my colleagues of the Executive Council. I have referred your bill of Ten Dollars for expenses incurred attending the conference to Secretary Morrison, who will send you check covering the same. With wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*494*] X. April 4, 1911. Miss Josephine J. Eschenbrenner, Membership Secretary, National Child Labor Committee, 105 East 22d. Street, New York City. My dear Madam: Your kind letter of the 31st. ult. came daily to hand. I assure you that I count it an honor to be invited to become a member of The National Child Labor Committee, but I think you will realize that both as a union man and as President of the American Federation of Labor, I have done and am doing my full share in the effort to secure more humane conditions which shall protect the children of our country and much shall safeguard them against exploitation. It may not be amiss to say that I was honored by an invitation of the State Legislature of Indiana to address that body, which I did about two months ago. In the course of my address I took great paints to dwell upon the necessity for a most effective law against child labor. In the evening of that same day, I appeared before a joint committee of the Indiana Legislature, and as strongly as I could advocated the enactment of a stringent child labor law, (the bill which Mr. Keegan, a member of the House, introduced). Some of my friends paid me the compliment of saying that my effort aided in the enactment of the bill.[*495*] Miss Josephine J. Eschenbrenner -2- Through the efforts of organized labor, the Texas State Legislature has just passed a revised child labor law, raising the age limit from 13 to 15, and in mines and breweries from 15 to 17, and providing further that no child under 18 can be sent to any place where its morals will be corrupted. I do not wish to underestimate at all the good work which your Child Labor Committee has performed and is performing in this humane effort. I think it is not unfair or over-vain for me to say that the American Labor movement and I are also doing our full share in this line of work. With every wish for success, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, and assuring you of my helpfulness whenever I can be of assistance, I am, Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*496*] [*COPIED*] [*APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. J.D. Beck, President, Int'l. Association of Officials of Bureaus of Labor, Madison, Wisconsin. Dear Sir: Your favor of March 31st is received and contents noted. You say that some time during the summer, at a date to be fixed by the Executive Committee, the International Association of Officials of Bureaus of Labor will hold its annual meeting in Lincoln, Nebraska. You then extend on behalf of the Association an invitation to me to visit Lincoln during the convention, for the purpose of delivering an address. While I appreciate the courtesy of your invitation, I very much fear that it will be impossible for me to accept your invitation. In fact, in view of the uncertainty as to when the Supreme Court of the United States will hand down its decision in our appeal cases, I cannot undertake to make any engagements so far in advance. Regretting my inability to accept your invitation, I am, Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.[*497*] [*COPIED*] [APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. Victor Scheen, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Council, Hamilton, Montana. Dear Sir and Brother: I have read with a great deal of interest your favor of March the 27th and am very glad that you gave me the information in regard to the new Senator from Montana, Judge Meyers, that is, that he has expressed himself as always being with labor in its demands. I shall certainly keep this in mind, and shall be glad to have the opportunity of meeting the Senator and hope to do so in the near future. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 498 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION NOS. 62-67 AND 64. Mr. David Kreyling, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 3535 Pine Street, St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the first instant in which you advise me of the efforts you have made in behalf of the Bakers' organization, and in conformity with my letter to you of February 9th in connection with Resolutions #62-67 and 64 of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L. It would certainly appear from the situation as you state it to exist, that at present there is nothing further which can be done in the matter, except that it rests with the organizations of Labor themselves to make their position felt with the American Baking Company and the McKinney Bread Company. Again thanking you for all that you have done in this matter, and with the best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.499 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTIONS NOS. 62-67 AND 64. Mr. Otto E. Fincher, Secretary, Bakery and Confectionary Workers Int'l. Union of America, 212 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our recent correspondence in regard to the resolutions of the St. Louis Convention above named, dealing with the questions at issue between the McKinney Bread Company and the American Baking Company and your International Union, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have just received from Organizer David Kreyling, and which is self-explanatory. I should be glad to be of any further assistance within my power. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*500*] COPY. St. Louis, Mo., April 1, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to yours of Feb. 9th, 1911, bearing on resolutions #62-64-67, of the St. Louis Convention, I will say that in compliance with your instructions I in conjunction with Mr. Peter Seisel, local representative of the Bakery Workers Int'l. Union, called on Mr. Adolph Boettler, President of the American Bakery Company, with a view of adjusting the differences existing between his company and the Bakery Workers Int'l. Union, when commission was made known to Mr. Boettler, he claimed that he did not feel justified in taking this matter up with the Committee himself, but he assured us that he would submit our request for a conference to the Board of Directors at their meeting to be held in the afternoon of the day of our visit, and that if the Board of Directors decided to grant our request we would be notified. Yet hearing from Mr. Boettler or the Board up to date, I get in touch with Mr. Boettler on the phone today when the informed me that he had submitted the matter to the members of the Board as he promised to do, and the Board passed the matter up without taking any action thereon. This action on the part of the Board, and the information received from Mr. Boettler, that he and the rest of the members of the American Bakery Company have made up their minds not to unionize their plants has convinced me that there is not a possible chance to accomplish anything with this company until the struggle of the Bakery Workers is made more effective against said Company by the members of organized labor.501 -2- Mr. Beisel and myself also called on Mr. McKinney of the Mc Kinney Bread Company of St. Louis. Mr. McKinney received the committee with all due courtesy, and discussed the situation with the Committee for almost two hours but he would not be convinced that it would be to his interest to make peace with the Bakery Workers International Union. Mr. McKinney, like the members of the American Bakery Company, claims that the boycott on their products has not injured their business one iota. To the contrary they have increased their output yearly, and I regret to admit that this claim is borne out by facts, as the McKinney and some of the other plants have to some extent been enlarged since the boycott has been placed against them, with these conditions prevailing it is impossible to do any business on unionizing lines with Mr. McKinney, any more than with the American Bakery Co. but I am still in hopes that the members of organized labor will in the near future make full use of the power at their command and aid the Bakery Workers in unionizing these plants. Fraternally submitted, (Signed) David Kreyling, Organizer.502 Copied. APR 5 1911 April 5, 1911 Manager, Western Union Telegraph Company, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: On March 9, I sent a cablegram to David Lubin in Rome as follows: "Washington, D.C., March 9, 1911. Lubin, Ceres, Rome. Your wishes carried out. Gompers. Charge A.F. of L." Several days afterwards I was notified by your office that the cable gram was undelivered because the party to whom it was addressed was unknown. I am now in receipt of a letter dated March 22, from Mr. Lubin, in which the first part of his letter he refers to the non-receipt of the cablegram as follows: "I have your welcome letter of March 9th, but I am sorry to say that I have not received the cable you speak of, though you gave the right cable address on your letter, which is "Lubin - Ceres - Rome." I have had no trouble heretofore in receiving cables this addressed." Will you kindly have this matter investigated, and make a refund of the payment of the cablegram. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.503 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. M Washington, D. C., April 6, 1911. Mr. Santiago Iglesias, 11 Allen Street, San Juan, P. R. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 24th ultimo has been duly received, in which you advised me as to the time when the members of Tobacco Workers Union No. 12722 were locked out in connection with the strike of the Cigarmakers, and when the strike was settled and the men returned to work. Secretary Morrison has already written you sending you check for the payment of benefits for six weeks upon the membership of Local Union No. 12722, as shown by the per capita tax which has been paid to this office. I want to call your attention particularly to the fact that you will carefully look after the payment of the benefits, and see that the records are properly kept, and that only those members who have been in continous good standing in Local No. 12722 for a period of one year shall be paid benefits. You will not fail to take their individual receipts for each week's benefits, sending the orig-nal receipts to this office and retaining the duplicate.504 S. I. 2. As you will note the check [is check] is made out for the full six weeks as authorized by the Executive Council, and for the 13 members as shown by our books here. However, you should not pay this entire amount to each member at one time, but pay two weeks at a time and take their receipts therefor. The full amount for the six weeks is being sent to you, because of the length of the time which has elapsed since the lockout has occurred, and the length of time which it requires for a letter to be sent to you and a reply to reach this office. In returning the individual receipts and blanks filled out, I want you to make a full financial report to me so our records in this case may be kept straight. Of course, you will have in mind the fact that if any of the 13 members are not eligible to benefits under the constitution of the A. F. of L., that the corresponding amount of money is to be returned to this office. Kindly advise me fully as to this in your report. I note your reference to the strike of the Cigarmakers in Caguas, and of the 33 cigarmakers who have been arrested and are now under secret investigation. You say that 14 of these arrested men are members of the Cigarmakers Union in Caguas. Of course, you will not fail to keep me advised fully as to the final result of this strike, and what disposition has been made in the case of the 33 arrested men. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.505 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 5, 1911 Mr. Wm. A. Ashton, Organizer for Teamster's Intl. Union, 781 Eight Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In a number of Socialist papers I have seen statements giving varying accounts of the recent strike of the expressmen in the city of New York. One of them just coming to hand is the CLEVELAND CITIZEN, which reads as follows: "The New York expressmen's strike seems to have been lost again. Mayor Gaynor, who 'settled' the previous strike, at the request of the Civic Federation, refused to give the unionists any satisfaction and lectured them for once more walking out although they produced sufficient proof of discrimination against union men on the part of the corporations. The express companies are bound to break up the union and have been weeding out active members, the 'agitators', and will doubtless follow up their new advantages conceded by Gaynor. The strikers are particularly bitter toward William A. Ashton, A. F. of L. organizer, who is charged with having betrayed them and demand his removal." I would like you to write me a statement and let me have it as soon as possible, giving the facts in the case, the action of yourself and of the organizations at interest. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.506 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] LF April 5, 1911 Miss Grace C. Strachan, The Interborough Association of Women Teachers of the City of N. Y. 1308 Pacific St., Brooklyn, N. Y. My dear Madam: In behalf of Mrs. Gompers and myself I beg to acknowledge receipt of your very courteous invitation to attend the annual dinner of your Association, which will take place at the Waldorf-Astoria, at seven o'clock on Saturday, April twenty-sixth. I regret to say, however, that owing to Mrs. Gompers' very serious illness it will not be within our power to accept the invitation. Thanking you for your courtesy, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*507*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] Z April 5, 1911. Mr. Robert R. Hean, Rec. Secretary, Central Labor Union, 607 South Duke Street, Lancaster, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 31st received and contents noted. I regret very much that you have been unable to secure a speaker for the mass meeting which the Central Labor union had contemplated holding under date of April 13th. I again express my regret that my engagements are such as to make it impossible for me to come on for that date. I trust you may be able later to make satisfactory arrangements with some good speaker. You ask for information as to whether there is an official flag that could be furnished to be used for decorating purposes on Labor Sunday. In reply let me say that the A. F. of L. has never adopted a flag and therefore I am unable to comply with your request. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 508 COPIED. APR 5 1911 X. April 4, 1911. Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the second instant is at hand in which you reply to my letter of the 30th in which I wrote you sending you copy of the letter written me by Mr. John Whitehead of the Textile Workers. Yes, you are correct in your inference. I had no intention what-ever of "calling you to account". I merely wanted you to know what Mr. Whitehead had said for there was no doubt in my mind whatever as to your doing your whole duty to the very best of your ability in Philadelphia, as well as any other city where you may be assigned. With Kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor509 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] Z April 5, 1911. Mr. W. H. Short, Secretary, New York Peace Society, 507 Fifth Avenue, New York, N. Y. My dear Sir: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to my engagement to deliver an address before your Society on April 18th, I beg to say that the Secretary of the New York Central Federated Union has written me calling attention to the address upon the subject of universal peace which you delivered several weeks ago before that body. He further says that upon your request credentials were given you to visit other organizations of labor in New York City but that later these credentials were withdrawn upon the protest of representatives of the Irish-american and German societies, stating that the New York Peace Society is not a society for universal peace but rather for an alliance between England and the United States. I am not in a position to expres [[express]] an opinion upon this phase of the subject but I merely desire to say that if we want international peace we certainly want national peace and peace in the ranks of labor. May I ask that you kindly let me have a word from you in regard to the foregoing [*510*] Mr. W. H. Short ---2. [*COPIED.*] [*??? 1911*] at your early convenience and oblige Yours very truly, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.511 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] Z April 5, 1911. Mr. Frederic W. Gardner, Chairman, Board of Directors, Buck's Stove and Range Co., St. Louis, Missouri. My dear Mr. Gardner: You have already been advised by Miss Guard, in answer to your letter of March 23rd, of my absence from headquarters, I am taking this first opportunity since my return to answer your letter. As you have already been advised, I have sent out a number of individual, personal letters to our organizers and to the secretaries of central bodies requesting them to appoint committees to call upon dealers in their respective cities, particularly in the cities in list of which was given me by your office, to officially and formally advise these dealers of the friendly relations now existing between organized labor and your Company and that it is the desire of organized labor, to the very fullest limit of our ability, to give the widest publicity possible to the fact of the restoration of such harmonious relations. I again want to assure you that I have done, am doing and will continue to do everything I possibly can in this regard. I have carefully read and re-read your letter. I wish you would tell me definitely just what is wrong and whether I can be of any assistance. I have sent a copy of your letter to512 Mr. Frederic W. Gardner--2. Vice-President Valentino and it may be that before you receive this letter he has sent you in regard thereto. I most sincerely trust that Mrs. Gardner is feeling very much better. Mrs. Gompers is somewhat improved but as yet is able to sit up only part of the time and still suffers greatly. It is hardly possible that she will be able to be out for weeks yet to come. Reciprocating your good wishes and hoping to hear from you further, I am Very sincerely yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 513 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] Z April 5, 1911. Mr. Thomas Sweeney, East Side Square, Carlinville, Illinois. Dear Sir: Replying to the inquiry contained in your favor of March 23rd I beg to say that the dispute existing between organized labor and the Washburn-Crosby Milling Company has not been adjusted. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 514 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] M April 5, 1911. Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: The demands on my time are so great that I find it impossible to affix my name to each and every warrant for the month of March, and have, therefore, authorized the use of a rubber stamp, the same being a fac simile of my signature on warrants as follows: No. 27343, March 1, 1911, to and including March 31, No. 27635, amounting to $12,771.34. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. 515 [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] Z April 5, 1911. Mr. R. S. Greer, Organizer, 1514 Railroad Avenue, Beaumont, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 21st has been duly received and contents read with an unusual degree of interest. Organized labor of Texas is to be congratulated upon having secured the passage by the Legislature of a bill for the eight hour law to be applied to contrast work to be done by the State and counties. You say the bill is now awaiting the Governor's signature for it to before law. I take it that there will be no doubt as to his signing it. In any event you will kindly let me have a work in regard thereto. I note with a great deal of interest the other measures which labor has secured in Texas, that is a law to have the air appliances inspected before any train can leave the terminal, by an inspector who shall have has at least four years experience: a revision of the child labor law raising the age limit from 13 to 15 and in mines and breweries from 15 to 17, and that no child under 18 can be sent to any place where its morals will be corrupted. I can congratulate organized labor upon the good work it has accomplished. I note what you say in regard to sending a special organizer to Texas, but I fear at this time it will be impossible for516 Mr. R. S. Greer---2. us to do so. The very limited number of organizers now at work for the American Federation of Labor have been assigned to most pressing and important work to which the interest of the movement require they shall give their undivided attention. It may be later on we can arrange to have someone visit Texas but we cannot now make any definite promise in regard thereto. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you often, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*517*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] Z April 5, 1911. Mr. Ernest Bohm, Secretary, Central Federated Union, 210 East 5th St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 1st received and contents noted. You say "The Metal Polishers, Buffers, etc., complain that in the proposed new formation of the plan of arbitration, it is contemplated to sidetrack them and they in turn demand that the employing Electric Lighting and Bronze Erectors' Assn. are refused admission. This has been referred to you." I wish you would advise me more definitely as to the foregoing, particularly as to what it is you have in mind in referring to the "plan of arbitration". That section of your letter dealing with the United House Shorers, Movers, etc., has been referred to Secretary Morrison, as he has been conducting the previous correspondence on this case. In the concluding paragraph of your letter you refer to the New York Peace Society and the meeting which is to be held under the auspices of that Society on April 18th. I am investigating the Compliant you made on March 18th but I am not now in a position to express an opinion one way or the other.[*518*] Mr. Ernest Bohm---2. I wish you would give me some further information in regard to this subject. I take it that one of the fundamental principles of the labor movement is to do all we can, to exert every influence within our power to prevent war between nations, in which, after all, the working people must form the great mass of the soldiers to do the fighting, to be wounded or killed, and thereafter the working people to bear the brunt and burden of taxation. If for a moment any proposed agreement or treaty had for its object antagonism toward another country I thing we should undoubtedly protest, but where a proposed treaty is that the government of two or more countries agree in advance that all matters of differences between them which they cannot themselves adjust shall be referred to a court of arbitration is one which sincere, thinking trade unionists, men who love their fellow man, should welcome with enthusiasm and support with all their power and influence. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*519*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] Z April 5, 1911. Mr. H. S. Rowe, American Academy of Political and Social Science, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir: Referring to previous correspondence, I regret to advise that it will be impossible for me to attend the meeting of the American Academy of Political and Social Science on April 7-8th, owing to the serious illness of Mrs. Gompers. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*520*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] M April 5, 1911. Mr. D. D'Alessandro, President, International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers of America, 2-1/3 Charter St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 2nd received and contents noted. I thank you for sending me the clippings from the Philadelphia papers giving report of the proceedings of the Italian Congress held in that city last week, and which you attended as the representative of the Italian workmen of this country. You say that you have been elected one of the members of the Executive Council of this Italian Congress, and you want my advice upon several matters in connection therewith. The first time you come over to Washington I shall be glad to talk the entire matter over with you. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*521*] [*COPIED. APR 5 1911*] X. April 5, 1911. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Secretary, Executive Committee, National Civic Federation, Metropolitan Building, New York City. My dear Mr. Easley: Can you obtain for me a copy of the decision of the New York courts declaring unconstitutional the Workmen's Compensation Law of New York State? I should appreciate it greatly. Sincerely yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*522*] [*COPIED*] [*APR 5 1911*] X. April 4, 1911. Mr. Ralph M. Easley, Secretary, Executive Committee, National Civic Federation, Metropolitan Building, New York City. My dear Mr. Easley: Your favor of the the third instant to hand and contents noted. I thank you for sending me the pamphlet "Shop Management" by Mr. Frederick W. Taylor , of Philadelphia, Pa. I have read a great deal of the pamphlet with interest. The part you blue pencilled, page 1479, is the most innocent in the expressions of the effort of Dr. Taylor and his associates in trade union destruction. I would suggest that you read the pamphlet, at least from pages 1445 to the end, page 1480. I wish that I had had the pamphlet before I wrote the article in the April issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, and I could then have quoted the expressions of Mr. Taylor and others. It completely refutes the utterances of Mr. Brandeis in so far as the "shop management" and so-called "efficiency" schemes are concerned, in regard to trade unionism. There is not one of the advocates of this scheme except Mr. Brandeis, who does not predicate it upon the destruction, the elimination, the abandonment of organized labor. Can you direct me where I can get a number of copies of this pamphlet? I should be glad to order them. I expect to be in town Friday and Saturday. I had an engagement in Philadelphia, but the work here compels me to stick523 Copied APR 5 1911 Mr. Ralph M. Easley -2- close to headquarters. With best wishes, I am, Sincerely yours. Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Copied APR 6 1911 Z April 6, 1911 Mr. H. L. Persinger, Secretary, Austin Trades Council, 200 East First St., Austin, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 29th received and contents noted. You refer to the trouble between Painters' Local Union #221 and your Central Body in connection with the International Theatrical and Musical Union, a non-affiliated body with two union painters as charter members, these painters holding membership in local #221. Let me say in reply that this so-called International Theatrical and Musical Union is a small concern organized to be in rivalry with the American Federation of Musicians. Indeed these few men who have organizes this union with the long title hold the same position to the American Federation of Musicians as does the so- called Brotherhood of Motormen to the Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employees of America. It is organized to depress wages and make improved conditions of the musicians difficult. I am sure that you will agree with me that for a man to be recognized as a union musician, he should be a member of the American Federation of Musicians. Men who are working at their trades, as machinists, tailors, painters, ect., if they hire them- selves out as musicians, certainly cannot be recognized as union 525 Mr. H. L. Persinger---2. musicians. That they are union machinists, union tailors, union painters, etc., if members of their respective trades, no one could dispute, but to be known as a union musician, it is necessary that they should be members of the American Federation of Musicians. if a man were a member of the American Federation of Musicians and undertook to do the work of a painter or tailor, be would not be regarded as a union painter or tailor upon the strength of his membership in the A.F. of M., but he would be required to become a member of the tailors of painters union. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers*] President, American Federation of Labor526 COPIED. APR 5 1911 Z April 5, 1911. Mr. D. D'Alessandro. President, International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers of A., 9-1/3 Charter St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of even date with reference to the Italian Congress held at Philadelphia, which you attended or a representative of the Italian workmen of this country, I should be pleased to have a full report of this Congress from you, which I may use for a report, or for general dissemination in order that it may be of some advantage to our fellow-workers of Italian birth, or perhaps for publication in the AMERICAN FEDERA-TIONIST. Trusting to hear from you in regard to the foregoing at your early convenience, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.527 COPIED. APR 5 1911 Z April 5, 1911. Mr. C. J. Rechsteiner, Organizer, 22 Park Street, Carbondale, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: As requested in your favor of the 4th instant, I have made the requester change in your address, and it will appear as above on the list of organizers. I regret that you have had any trouble in receiving your mail. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*528 COPIED. APR 8 1911*] No. 36. X. April 5, 1911. EXECUTIVE COUNCiL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: You know that for some time we have to a considerable degree concentrated the efforts of our organizers in orgarizing the operating and mechanical departments of the Pennslyvania Railroad. This was attended with a considerable degree of success, despite the open and secret efforts of the management of that company. Recently the management of the company issued a secret letter to their Division Superintendents, directing that in laying off men those who are members and who would not cease their membership in any organization of labor, should be discharged. At a meeting in Pittsburg, particularly composed of railroad employes, a number of speakers delivered addresses, among them Vice-President John Mitchell. During his address he read an original letter of the character above mentioned. It created the greatest consternation and indignation, and it was there and then decided that a meeting should be held at the Monongahela House, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, this, Wednesday, morning, April fifth. At the meeting were representatives of the Railroad Brotherhoods, the International Association of Machinists, the Brotherhood of Boiler Makers and Iron Ships Builders, the Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, and other organizations in interest, including the A. F. of L. [*529*] Executive Council -2- I tried to get into communication with Vice-President Mitchell to have him remain at Pittsburg to attend the conference as the representative of the A. F. of L. or to return there if he had left. Having departed from Pittsburg, he stated that it was impossible for him to return to that city for this morning. In consequence of imperative duties here as well as the severe illness of Mrs. Gompers, I felt that it was impossible for me to go to Pittsburg to attend the conference, and I therefore requested Secretary Morrison to proceed to that city and represent the A. F. of L. He left for Pittsburg last evening, and today I received a telegram from him stating that the officers of the organizations primarily in interest are in attendance. The intention of the conference is to enter a protest and to make representations to the company of the unfair and hostile attitude assumed by its management, and to take such further action as may be necessary to safeguard the workmen employed upon the Pennsylvania Railroad, to organize for their own and for their mutual protection. The matter is submitted to the Executive Council not only for the information contained above, but that the action of the President of the A. F. of L. in assigning Secretary Morrison to this duty be approved or otherwise by the Executive Council. Please return your vote at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, [*Samuel Gompers*] President, American Federation of Labor.[*530*] LF April 5,1911 [*COPIED.*] [*APR 6- 1911*] When replying, kindly refer to Res.#21. Mr. John Drexel, President Stone Derrickmen and Riggers' Union No. 6721. 508 W 32nd St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 6th in regard to further conference between the representatives of your union and the several other organizations as referred to in Resolution #21 of the St.Louis Convention, I beg to advise you that conference has been called to meet at ten o'clock on Saturday morning, April 23rd at the New York office of the American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue. I trust you will not fail to have your organization represented at that conference. A letter similar to this is being sent to the executive officers of the several other organizations interested and also to organizer Hugh Frayne, who will represent the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, [*Sam'l Gompers.*] President American Federation of Labor.[*531*] COPIED. APR 6- 1911 LF April 6,1911 Mr. Michael Carraher, Secretary Tunnel and Subway Constructors Intl. Union 150 East 125th St., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 6th in regard to further conference between the representatives of your Association and the several other organizations as referred to in Resolution #21 of the St.Louis Convention, I beg to advise you that conference has been called to meet at ten o'clock on Saturday morning, April 22nd at the New York office of the American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue. I trust that you will not fail to have your organization represented at that conference. A letter similar to this is being sent to the executive officers of the several other organizations interested and also to Organizer Hugh Frayne, who will represent the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*532*] LF April 6, 1911 When replying to this letter, kindly refer to Res. #21. Mr. Fred W. Suitor, Secretary Quarry Workers Intl. Union of North America Scampini Bldg., Barre Vermont. [*COPIED. APR 7- 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 6th in regard to further conference between the representatives of your Association and the several other organizations as referred to in Resolution #21 of the St. Louis Convention, I beg to advise you that conference has been called to meet at ten o'clock on Saturday morning, April 22nd at the New York office of the American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Ave., I trust you will not fail to have your organization represented at that conference. A letter similar to this is being sent to the executive officers of the several other organizations interested and also to Organizer Hugh Frayne, who will represent the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*533*] [*COPIED*] APR 7-1911 LF April 6, 1911 When replying to this letter, kindly refer to Res. #21. Mr. D. D. D'Alessandro, President International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers Union 82 State St., Albany, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 8th in regard to further conference between the representatives of your International Union and the several other organizations as referred to in Resolution #21 of the St. Louis Convention, I beg to advise you that conference has been called to meet at ten o'clock on Saturday morning, April 22nd at the New York office of the American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue. I trust that you will not fail to have your organization represented at that conference. A letter similar to this is being sent to the executive officers of the several other organizations interested and also to Organizer Hugh Payne, who will represent the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*534*] [*COPIED APR 7-1911*] LF April 6, 1911 Mr. Hugh Payne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring further to the matter of another conference between the representatives of the Stone Derrickmen, Quarry Workers, Hod Carriers, Bridge and Structural Iron Workers, etc. as directed by Resolution #21 of the St. Louis Convention, I beg to advise you that I have issued official call for the second conference to be held in your office at ten o'clock, Saturday morning, April 22nd, you to represent the A. F. of L. In connection with this general subject natter, I enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have received from Stone Derrickmen's Union #6721 of Chicago, and to which I have yet made no reply. It seems to me that the matters referred to therein could better wait for the consideration of the conference. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:[*535*] COPY. Stone Derrickmen and Riggers' Union, No. 6721. Chicago, March 21, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Esq., Dear Sir and Brother: [*COPIED. Apr ?? 1911*] Yours of the 6th instant received, and was put before the meeting last Thursday and we are waiting for a reply from the St. Louis Union or Mr. Brice, as to how they feel in regards to the matter. Our members are in favor of joining the Quarry Workers International Union of America, so we have wrote to Mr. Brice to that effect. I saw Frank Ryan of Bridgemen's Union, and he wants us to join his organization. It would benefit us in wages but not in our class of work, as the stoneyards in Chicago are not organized, and they are willing to join our organization, so we think that would benefit us a good deal. Another question I was instructed to ask you and that is about Denver. Our men from Chicago are forced to join the Ironworkers union before they could work there, and the con[s]tractor is a Chicago stonesetting contractor and intended to take a lot of men from Chicago to Denver, but we do not think it right that our men should pay $25.00 to work at our own class of work that we hold a charter for, and we intended to start a local there, and I would ask you if you don't think it fair to let our men work there until such time as this matter is settled. Mr. Ryan told me that he had control of all derricks [xx?] in the buildings, but I have heard that he has not, and I would like to ask you if he has control of all derricks, and when he got the control of them, that our organization does not think it right that theironmen can claim our work so long as we hold a charter for same work, and if you will kindly answer our question we would be ever so much obliged. Hoping to hear from you soon, we thank you in advance and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, (signed) John Drexel, Pres. Stone Derrickmen and Riggers Union. Bill Taylor, Rec. Sec.[*536*] [*COPIED APR 7-1911*] X. April 5, 1911. Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Will you please let me have as soon as convenient an account of the action of the Italian congress, held in Philadelphia March 27-28-29, which you attended, and at which Louis Romagnoli, Organizer for the Tailors, also attended. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*537*] M April 6, 1911 [*COPIED APR 7-1911*] Mr. Cal Wyatt, c/o Hugh Frayne, 25 Third Avenue., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 5th received; also the correspondence relative to the Uhrichsville matter, for which I thank you. Fraternally yours, [*Sam'l Gompers.*] President American Federation of Labor.[*538*] [*COPIED APR 7-1911*] M April 6, 1911. Mr. Clarence O. Fifield, Organizer, 76 Main Street, Livermore Falls, Maine. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 1st instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that the report blanks sent out each month to our organizers are to be filled in and returned to this office by the 25th of each month, in order that same may be published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST for the following month. In answer to your question as to whether or not an organizer can attend the meetings of the central body when not a delegate, I beg to say that this is a matter of which the central body itself should be the judge. However, if an organizer from the American Federation of Labor has business before the meeting he should undoubtedly be admitted, and when an organizer has direct instructions from the undersigned to visit a central body, these instructions should not only be complied with, but it should be sufficient warrant for a central body to accord that right. Relative to your other inquiry I would say that there would be no objection to your organizing a local union in any locality539 C.O.F.2. cality, providing you do not encroach upon the jurisdiction of another organizer. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*540*] [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*] LF April 6,1911 When replying kindly refer to Res. #21. Mr. W. L. Monaghan, Secretary, Stone Derrickmen's Union #12878 4455 Gravois Ave. St Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 6th in regard to further conference between the representatives of your union and the several other organizations as referred to in Resolution #21 of the St. Louis Convention, I beg to advise you that conference has been called to meet at ten o'clock on Saturday morning, April 22nd at the New York office of the American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue. I trust that you will not fail to have your organization represented at that conference. A letter similar to this is being sent to the executive officers of the several other organizations interested and also to Organizer Hugh Payne, who will represent the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*541*] [COPIED. APR 7-1911*] LF April 6, 1911 When replying to this letter, kindly refer to Res. #21. Mr. M. F. Ryan, President Intl. Assn. of Bridge & Structural Iron Workers, American Central Life Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 6th in regard to further conference between the representatives of your Association and the several other organizations as referred to in Resolution #21 of the St. Louis Convention, I beg to advise you that conference has been called to meet at ten o'clock on Saturday morning, March 22nd at the New York office of the American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue. I trust that you will not fail to have your organization represented at that conference. A letter similar to this is being sent to the executive officers of the several other organizations interested and also to Organizer Hugh Payne, who will represent the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*542*] Z April 6, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 7 1911*] Mr. Frank G. Howe, P. O. Box No. 35, Norman, Oklahoma. Dear Sir: Your favor of March 23rd received and contents noted. You say that you will shortly take part in a debate on the question of the minimum wage and you request information to be used by you in the preparation of your argument. In reply let me say that in the April, 1898, issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, on page 25, there is published an argument on this subject which I had with Mr. Edward Atkinson. The article is entitled "A Minimum Living Wage". As it is hardly possible that you could secure a copy of it in Norman, I have a typewritten copy made and enclose it to you herein. By referring further to your letter I note that the question for your debate is as follows: "Resolved, That it would be advisable to adopt a minimum wage in the field of the sweated industries of United States", and that "minimum wage" in the sense in which the question is put would be a living wage, and that "sweated industries" means contract labor in garment making, cigar making, etc. You will of course bear in mind that there are many obstacles in the way of establishing a national minimum scale of [*543*] Mr. Frank G. Howe---2. wages. Consideration must be given to the fact of different climatic conditions, of industries which are local in character, the characteristics of the people, their industrial development as well as educational advantages and otherwise, the higher concept of the standard of living, and that though we have not accomplished that which we may desire in view of the many difficulties in the way, we are doing and have done much to establish a higher standard of life which means a higher minimum scale and better living wage, and better conditions generally. I would also suggest that you secure a copy of Bulletin No. 77 of the Bureau of Labor, July, 1908, which deals with the question of wages and hours of labor from 1890 to 1907. Trusting that the above given information may be of service to you, I am Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*544*] X. April 5, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 7 1911*] Mr. Geo. B. Howley, President, Minnesota State Federation of Labor, 2214 4th Street North, Minneapolis, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: In connection with our correspondence and particularly the interests of labor, both in Minnesota, as well as in various parts of the country, I deem it my duty to write you. Of course, you can understand in an office such as the American Federation of Labor, it is necessary to have the services of at least one clipping bureau. Through it much information is received regarding the activities of men in the labor movement. For a a considerable time I have had information regarding the work of the labor movement of Minnesota, and your name has appeared therein quite frequently. During the last campaign your name was associated with a movement to elect to the legislature of your state a man whose record in regard to the labor movement was anything but fair or sympathetic. It was even suggested that this man was opposed to another candidate whose sympathies and whose record had always been with labor. I know that the man whose election you advocated was elected, and that since then in the legislature he has practically led the opposition to labor legislation. You know too that the American labor movement has been for more than twenty five years and is now committed to the principle [*545*] Mr. Geo. B. Howley -2- of direct legislation, or rather the initiative and the referendum, and yet it is stated that when a bill of this character was before the legislature you in a public statement in the press absolved the members of the legislature from the pledge in favor of this bill which they had given before election. Of course you understand that I shall not attach absolute reliance to every statement I see published in the newspapers, and therefore I am writing to you upon the subject for informaton. Sincerely hoping that the statements made are not true, and hoping to hear form you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*546*] [*COPIED> APR 7-1911*] X. April 5, 1911. Mr. Hans Fehlinger, Hinterbruhl 2, Muenchen, 41, Munich, Germany. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 25th duly to hand and contents noted. I shall write to Mr. Duncan in regard to your suggestion and inquire from him what services it would be possible for you to render him in connection with his delegateship to the International Secretariat at Budapest. I shall advise you later in regard thereto. I know that Mr. Baumeister of Berlin has for several years, and is expected this year to act as official translator of the conference, and I am sure he is competent to perform that duty. Yet I am sure that there is some advantage in being able to understand more than one language, for I know that frequently the force of an expression is lost by translation into another language. But as I say, I am sure Mr. Duncan will get along well and that he will acquit himself creditably I am confident. You ask for some literature relating to the history of the American Federation of Labor, especially literature concerning the early development of what I am gratified you call our "grand organization". I am awfully crowded for time and therefore can't do much in this direction. Yet I am sending you under separate cover a package of five pamphlets, four in English and one published in German, as follows:[*547*] Mr. Hans Fehlinger -2- #1, Trade Unions, Their Origin and Objects, Influence and Efficacy, by William Trant, M.A. You will find the latter part blue pencilled helpful. #2, a copy of the pamphlet which we used at the Expositions at St. Louis, 1904, and Jamestown, 1907. #3, The Outlook, with an article of Labor's Struggle for the right to Organize. #4, a pamphlet [xx] "Amerikanischen Gewerkvereine" by Henry W. Farnam. #5, Economic Studies, by Morton A. Aldrich, Ph.D. You may keep Nos. 1 and 2, but must urgently request you to return pamphlets 3, 4, and 5. Number 3 is scarce, and #4 and #5 are out of print. In pamphlet #4 there are some misapprehensions in regard to the then existing labor organizations. It cannot be disputed that one criticism made was well founded. In the old time it was considered quite the ordinary thing for men to reach political office over the shoulders of the workingmen. It must also be stated though that quite a number of these men became among the foremost men in American public life and statesmanship and were generally in sympathy with the struggles of the working people of the time. More than thirty years ago about a dozen trade unionists, relizing the necessity of the thorough organization of the working people, and the injury which came to the organizations and to the workers from leaders getting into better financial positions in industry and advancing themselves politically, these less than a dozen men pledged themselves to each other than under no circumstances would they accept any position either industrial, commercial, administrative or political life. They proposed and declared they were going to devote their entire lives to the labor movement. There are three men of that original dozen still alive. They, as well548 Mr. Hans Fehlinger -3- as those who have died, kept the faith, and their example has had a most marked influence upon the labor movement of America. By the way, this pamphlet, "Amerikenuschen Gewerkvereine" written by Henry W. Farnam, was published by Duncker and Humblot, Leipsic, Germany, in 1879. It may not be amiss to call your attention to the fact that from 1873 to 1882 the United States experienced probably the greatest industrial and financial panic it has had in its history, and that the labor organizations were nearly crushed out of existence. In connection with pamphlet #4, I want you to read the last paragraph of page 39. It is exceedingly interesting and true, and yet requires elucidation more than I have time to give it. The comparison between the organizations in England and America is hardly a fair test when one knows the conditions. The British trade unions began as "friendly societies" with "provident" features, that is, to provide for sick benefit and burial benefits, and then as time went on they extended their benefits. The British unions had to do this because the law forbade their organizing in any other way. On the other hand, the American trade unions when they began to organize, did so as industrial factors, industrial militant organizations. Of course, it is unthinkable that trade unions could be formed in a country where industry was in its primitive condition and where agriculture overwhelmingly predominated, and such was the case in the United States, until the Civil War. Then again, the existence of slavery and slave labor and free labor. When the trade unions began to really form, they inaugurated and for a long period they continued the policy of being purely militant organizations. The question of sick benefits, burial benefits, and other providential features were not deemed at all requisite. As a matter of fact, a large number of fraternal organ-549 Mr. Hans Fehlinger -4- izations were instituted, of which a tremendous number of the working people of the country were members and are members, and it is not difficult to understand how hard it now becomes to persuade men in the trade unions to adopt these features in the unions, when they are already members of fraternities, associations, and insurance companies, wherein they are already provided for and protected by these benefits. Yet in spite of all this, I am sure that I am within the limit of truth when I say that there are some American trade unions which expend more money in the payment of benefits and in insurance than any other organization of labor in the world of similar numbers. It is also gratifying to be able to say that considerable progress is being made in the extension of the beneficial and providential features in the trade unions of the United States. In connection with this it may not be uninteresting to call your attention to a few editorials which I published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, in 1896. I remember that I had some corres-pondence upon the subject of these editorials with our friend Legien, who republished them, or part of them, in the Correspondensblatt, of the "Generalkommission der Gewerkschaften Deutschlands". In pamphlet #5, I want to call attention to page 30. The error is obvious and I can't understand how the writer, Prof. Aldrich, fell into it. The method of the number of delegates to which an organization is entitled, and the number of votes to which the delegate is entitled, is the fairest and most democratic of any of which I know anything, real representation in accordance with taxation and the number of workers represented. I should have said I am sending you six pamphlets, for I shall send you a copy of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST for December, 1901, giving an editorial on the system of representation.[*550*] Mr. Hans Fehlinger -5- You have gotten me in the way of thinking so that I am almost impelled myself to write the early history of the American Federation of Labor of the American labor movement as I recall it and understand it. If it were not for other important pressing duties, I would get to it at once, but I suppose he who is engaged in the fight has not very much time to write its history. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.551 [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*] LF April 5, 1911 Mr. John R. Dunne, Secretary Newspaper Mail Deliverers' Union #9463, 25 Frankfort St., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: As I have already advised you, a copy of the letter which you wrote under date of March 10th, setting forth the contention of your local union which as regards the question of juris- diction between it and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters was sent to President Tobin. I am in receipt of a communication from him in which he encloses copy of a letter written him by the business agent of Local#617 of Jersey 01ty in regard to the drivers employed on the Hoboken Observer. You will please find enclosed herein copy of Mr. Tobin's letter and also copy of the enclosure to which he refers. I would like to hear from you in regard to the matters set forth therein. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.552 LF Copy. Jersey City, N.J. March 30, 1911 Mr. D. J. Tobin, General President, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your communication of March 22nd on hand: also copy of manifold from you, which was transmitted to you by President Gompers in reference to the Mail Deliverers Union. In going over the large communication I notice this organization wants to get a slice of ours in claiming a part of the Teamsters' Union. They make the assertion we are acting as strike breakers on a certain stable known as the Hoboken Observer, which I most emphatically deny, or, if they can come to this county and pick a strike breaker in any section of it we are willing to give those same gentlemen any amount of money that they will ask for. What an assertion: That our International Union has on its books, paying per capita tax, men who would go out and scab a job on his fellow workmen. There is no use of me going on with a lot of unfounded statements and call men untruthful, or say anything that will hurt their feelings. I want to state frankly that there are eight drivers, union men, and members of Local #617, Local 561 and 432, working on the Hoboken Observer and under a signed contract dating from February 20th, 1911, to Feb. 20th, 1912, and there are also four helpers on four of those wagons. These are all the men who are employed there and who belong to our Union and according to our constitution and the name of our International Union, and I was the one that organized this stable when they bought their own[*553*] Mr. D. J. Tobin--2 wagons and horses, and I do not believe in turning any of these men over to another organization after getting conditions for the men. Any one who doubts my word, I will refer them to the Business Agent of the Iron Workers, Mr. Dobbs. This was a bosses' fight and we do not intend to take sides with either party. This man, O'Neill owns twelve wagons and all his men are working for him. We do not want any of our men to go in and take their places. We would not tolerate it for one minute and we have no men in our organization that would do so. On the other hand the Observer people bought the wagons and applied to our Local for drivers. I did not know any of the Managers of the Observer at the time, but when any one calls on our Local for men or any other Local of our International Union, it is our duty to attend to the matter. I have thoughtfully gone over this matter before acting on the same and have taken the matter up with the Executive Board of our Local and we then drew up the agreement with the Observer people. I want you to bear in mind this one fact: There were no men on those wagons before our men went there. Those people bought them and applied to our Local for drivers, which we gladly supplied and got them good conditions, and as far as O'Neill is concerned he is a different party altogether, his men belonging to the Mail Deliverers' Union. So you can see the difference, we have no dispute to settle with the opposite party, namely the Mail Deliverers' Union. If they were to come and ask for the paper drivers as we call them then what is to stop the bricklayers or excavators from coming in and asking for the building material drivers? Have not they the same right to do so as those people have 554 Mr. D. J. Tobin--3 They are all drivers there. There has been a political boost behind this move. We know it, and in the whole affair those people are in a bad mix up. If they made a mistake it is not our fault; neither was it the fault of the A. F. of L. The employment of the Hoboken Observer is union from the foundation to the roof, and all agree with us, that we were right. When the Mail Deliverers asked the Iron Workers' Union through its Business Agent, Mr. Dobbs, about the matter, he told them that it belongs to the Teamsters' Union and nobody else had any right to drive a wagon, only a member of the Teamsters' Union, and he also informed the Mail Deliverers that his organization would stand by the teamsters, because no law was violated. O'Neill's men were working for O'Neill and this was a new job which was created. So we got the stable first and intend to keep it. We are not criticising the A. F. of L. on any decision it has rendered, but all drivers we claim jurisdiction over and any dispute arises we want to know it can be settled without us surrendering our rights to any other party, and we want you, Brother Tobin, to take your stand and show those people that we are standing on our rights. Any claims made by any one organisation, or members of the same, are absolutely false and without foundation. We are always living up to and doing business in accordance with the law of our International Union, working under the same, and we must at all times try to build up our International Union; instead of that those people want to come and take a slice of it away. First Vice-President Val, Hoffman and General Organizer Wm. Ashton, when I explained the situation to them, told me I was right and so informed Bro. Hugh J. Frayney, and showed him [*555*] Mr. D.J. Tobin--4 where we were within our rights and the Observer people are so satisfied with out men in the clean way they do the work laid out for each of them, that the statement in the communication sent by the Mail Deliverers is without foundation, and if any one doubts my word, refer them to the management of the Observer people. Trusting that this information will be satisfactory to all concerned and any questions in relation to the whole matter that you may desire I am at all times willing to furnish you; also any facts about the case you may further need and if necessary to furnish them from outside sources I know Mr. Dodds of the Iron Works will gladly do so. I want to thank you for the stand you have always taken on behalf of our International, knowing your hear is always in the movement to better the conditions of every local u nion and I know that you will take the right stand now and any further information desired I will gladly furnish it. With best wishes to yourself and the members of the General Executive Board, I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) J.J. Hurley 214 9th St., Jersey City, N.J. COPY.556 LF Copy. April 1, 1911 COPIED. APR 7, 1911 Mr. J. J. Hurley, 214 Ninth Street Jersey City, N. J. Dear Sister and Brother: Your communication relative to the trouble in the Hoboken Observer at hand and I was much pleased with same. I am making a copy of your report on this question and sending the same to President Gompers today. Your information on this subject was complete and satisfactory and you can rest assured that any assistance that I can give you in holding these drivers, I will be only too glad to do so. I have written along these lines to President Gompers, claiming that all of these drivers belong to us no matter what they are working at, and I still hold that those men whom you have in your organization and are employed by the Hoboken Observer are yours by every law governing our organization and by every right under which our charter has been granted. Trusting that you are well, with kindest regards, I am, Fraternally yours D. J. Tobin General President.[*557*] [*COPIED.*] [*APR 7 1911*] LF April 5,1911 Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, etc., 222 E Michigan St., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 1st instant in which you enclose copy of letter written you by your Local #617 of Jersey City, in regard to the Teamsters employed on the Hoboken Observer and in regard to which a controversy exists between your local and Newspaper Mail Delivers' Unions #9468. I am sending copy of your letter to the Secretary of Local #9465 and will await reply from him. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor[*558*] LF April 5, 1911 Mr. John M. Walsh, Member Machinists Local Union #634 369 E St., South Boston, Mass. [*COPIED.*] [*APR 7 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to my letter to you of March 31 in which I give you the number of years the executive officers of the international unions have served, I beg to say that the stenographer made a mistake in quoting Mr. Garretson as having been president of the Railroad Telegraphers for more than ten years. It should have been the Railroad Conductors, as Mr. H.B. Perham is the President of the Railroad Telegraphers. Trusting you will make this correction in my previous Letter, I remain, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.[*559*] LF April 6, 1911 Mr. Frank Saladin, President Federal Labor Union #13128, 12 Shriver Ave., Massillon, Ohio [*COPIED.*] [*APR 7 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April first is received, together with the copy of wage scale and agreement which has been jointly adopted by your organization and the several other organizations whose members are employed by the Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad Company, and which you say is to go into effect the first of May. I take it that in the event of any trouble arising between the members of your union and their employers, you would desire and expect financial support from the American F ederation of Labor. In connection with this I desire to call your attention to article XIII of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, a copy of which I herewith enclose. You will note from Section 4 of Article XIII that it is provided that before a local union is entitled to benefits from the defense fund, it must have been in continuous good standing for at least one year. Inasmuch as your union was chartered under date of January 26, 1911, it does not come within the constitutional provision, hence is not eligible to benefits form the defense fund.560 COPIED. APR 1911 Mr. Frank Saladin--2 Though your union is not eligible to benefit from the defense fund, it is unnecessary for me to assure you that you have my very best wished for success, and that I am wiling to do everything within my power consistent with the constitution and the laws of the American Federation of Labor to be helpful. Sincerely trusting for the success of your organization and the several other local unions in this matter, and asking you to keep me advised in regard thereto, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:[*561*] [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*] LF April 6. 1911 Mr. James Y. Gooch, Secretary, Federal Labor Union #8806 Carlinville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 30th is received and contents noted. You say that a member of your organization was elected constable two years ago; that he is also deputy sheriff; that during the strike on the Illinois Trackmen System the sheriff was called on for protection and he sent the deputy sheriff, who is a member of your organization, out to patrole the road. The members of your organization thought that this member had no right to patrole the road and that at the last regular meeting of your organization it was decided not to take any more dues from him, but to let the matter drop without saying anything further. You then say that as Secretary of Local #8806 you have some doubts as to whether the action taken was legal and you therefore request my opinion. I do not see how it is possible for your union to refuse to accept dues of the member in question if he offers to pay them, that is provided your union takes no further action, and that other action as I here suggest, that is that in [?] view of the fact that the American Federation of Labor has expressed itself to the effect that no good results would accrue to the[*562*] Mr. James Y. Gooch--2 organized labor movement of the country by the organization of policemen, sheriffs and such security officers of the government in affiliation with the A. F. of L. Policemen, sheriffs, etc. are commissioned public officers and are not followers of any trade or even calling within the meaning and purpose of our movement. Therefore policemen, sheriffs, etc. are not eligible to hold membership in any union affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. As to the particular member in question of your organization, if he so desires, he should be given a withdrawal card or he should resign from the organization. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*563*] [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*] LF April 6, 1911 Hon. George W. Wickersham, Attorney General of the United States, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: I would appreciate it greatly if you would kindly have sent to me copy of the address which you made in Providence, Rhode Island on the evening of April 1st at the banquet for the New England Manufacturing Jewellers and Silversmiths' Association. I have seen the press reports of your remarks and am so deeply interested that I particularly desire to have the opportunity of reading your entire speech. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy, I am, Very respectfully yours, President American Federation of Labor.564 [COPIED. APR 7-1911*] Mr. Charles Wagner, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council. P.O. Box 625, Honolulu, Hawaii. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 19th received and contents noted. You say that on behalf of a number of union men in Hawaii last October you forwarded $12.00 to the Columbia Knitting Mills of Philadelphia, for an order of knit goods, but that thus far you have not received the goods nor refund of the money, although you have written to the Company in regard to the matter. You further say that if you can not straighten it out you will to refund the $12.00 from your own pocket. In reply I beg to say that if you will send all the cor- respondence which has passed between you and this Company, I will place the matter in the hands of our Organizer in Philadelphia and see if he can straighten it our for you. Hoping to hear from you again at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, N.B. Send on the correspond- ence, but in the meantime I will endeavor to have the matter straightened out. Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*565*] M April 6, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 7 1911*] Mr. H. H. Hartley, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, Grand Junction, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 1st instant is at hand, in which you state the Trades and Labor Assembly recommends the appointment of quince Hutton as a volunteer organizer for Grand Junction and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Hutton in accordance therewith. There will also be forward to you 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. I note what you say relative to Brother Parker, but inasmuch as Brother Parker holds a commission as general organizer, and there is no reason why there can not be two organizers in one town, I will not remove his name from our list, unless specially requested to do so by the Central Body. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*567*] [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*] M April 6, 1911. Mr. William Noffke, Secretary, Oregon State Federation of Labor, 353 -18th St., Portland, Oregon. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 27th ultimo is at hand, and I note the list of officers elected by the State Federation of Labor, and that you desire commissions issued to them, and in accordance with this request commissions will be issued and forwarded to Brothers J. A. Madson, F. Poole, Charles Splawn and John R. Foresman. Our records show that Brothers Daly, Hill, Woods and yourself already hold commission as volunteer general organizer for the State of Oregon. I am also issuing commission as volunteer general organizer for the State, to C. H, Thompson, who now holds a commission as district organizer for Astoria. 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. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*567*] P. S. I also wish to call your attention to the fact that the the following names appear on our records as organizers for the State of Oregon. These men have been recommended from time to time by the State Federation of Labor. Kindly advise if the State Federation still desires them to be continued as organizers for the State of Oregon. H. M. Lorntsen Astoria, Oregon J. L. Moore " " J. F. Cassidy Portland " L. Gee " " C. H. Gram " " Chas. Grassman " " R. D. Hayner " " J. L. Wheeler " " Lucy White " " A. W. Dennis Salem " J. F. Wisner " "[*568*] [COPIED. APR 7-1911*] X. April 5, 1911. Mr. Joseph Dehane, 85 East End Avenue, New York City. Dear Friend: Your favor of the fourth instant with tabulated statement came duly to hand, and I want to thank you for it. It is just what I wanted. I saw a copy of it some time ago, but cannot be sure whether it was here or in New York. In looking it over I find that in that bulletin issued by Mr. Barnes it contains what purports to be the vote of 294 unions. However, there are 476 unions in the International Union, hence the reports of 182 unions are omitted. I thank you also for the copy of the circular issued in connection with the last Saturday's election of Union #144. The manner of its printing shows to what a pass things have come. Last Thursday our friend Dan Harris sent me a letter and enclosed a ballot, and desirous of sending in a properly marked ballot in order to vote in the election, I sent a letter to Dan asking him to send me a telegram collect indicating the trade unionists on the ballot. There were a number of names of men whom I did not know and I wanted to make sure and I was willing to bear the expense for the information and to have the privilege of casting my vote. That letter was due in his office Friday morning, and if he had telegraphed me as I requested, I could have sent my vote on[*569*] Mr. Jas Dehane -2- Friday so that it would have reached New York in time. However, I am glad to get the news from you that Dan did win. I should like to know the names of the officers and committees and delegates elected. I regret to say that Mrs. Gompers has not progressed at all within this past week. On the contrary, she had quite a setback Sunday, and has not been xx out of bed since. It is now nearly two months that she has been suffering. I trust that you and your folks are in the very best of health. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you as often as convenient, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*][*570*] COPIED. APR 7- 1911 X. April 5, 1911. Mr. Dan Harris, 190 Bowery, New York City. Dear Friend Dan: I was awfully disappointed at not receiving the telegram from you which I requested in the letter which I wrote you last Thursday. The question of payment from the telegram I would have gladly borne as I advised you. I wanted the privilege of voting for trade union officers of #144 and had my ballot partly marked, particularly in regard to the men whom I knew. I am just in receipt of a letter from our friend Joe Dehane in which he informs me that you were re-elected, notwithstanding the determined opposition made against you. Permit me to congratulate you, and particularly to congratulate the union. Your experience and devotion will be exceedingly helpful to the members of our craft. Will you do me the kindness of letting me have a few copies of the circular issued in connection with the election in #144, the one printed in "Yiddish" and English. I would like to have them for my file. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you soon and often, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*571*] [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*] X. April 5, 1911. CONFIDENTIAL Mr. John Morrison, 318 West 51st Street, New York City. My dear Mr. Morrison: A few days ago, Organizer Flood and I had a talk about two men who seemed to have some peculiar connection with other associations and incidentally with labor organizations, and about whom considerable suspicion existed as to their sincerity in the labor organization. If an earnest man in the labor movement who is much interested in this has made inquiry as to whether there is any news which would be conveyed in regard to the matter, I wish you would advise me. Of course if the men are all right and straight so far as the labor movement is concerned, we would like to know it. On the other hand, if they are simply emissaries of employers who injure and frustrate the interests and activities of the working people, we also would like to know it. I wish you would make inquiry in regard to it and let me have some definite information at your earliest possible convenience. Thanking you in advance, and with best wishes, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*572*] [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*] X. April 6, 1911. Mr. D. D'Alessandro, President, Hod Carriers and Building Labors Int'l. Union, Box 597, Albany N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from Commissioner General of Immigration, Mr. Daniel J. Keefe, in which he informs me that the decision in the case of Filomena Di Cesare, which decision provided for her deportation from the United States, has been reviewed, and that her landing has been authorized. Commissioner Keefe calls attention to the fact that Miss Cesare has been turned over to Miss Eleanor M. C[??]leton, President of the Boston Italian Society, who gave assurance that Miss Cesare will be taken in charge by the Society; that she will be placed in domestic service with a good family; that so far as possible she will be prevented from joining the man to whom she was originally destined, "at least until he demonstrates that he has reformed hi ideas concerning morality". Mr. Keefe adds that taking these representations and the contents of my previous letter into consideration, the decision as above was reached. I trust that you will be helpful in having Miss Cesare so conform her conduct as to bring no cause for regret upon any who participated in the effort to prevent her deportation.[*573*] Mr. D. Dalessandro -2- With best wishes, I am. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 7-1911*][*574*] Mr. D. D'Alessandro -2- With best wishes, I am , Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. X. April 5, 1911. COPIED. APR 7- 1911 Mr. John Weaver Sherman, Chairman, Legislative Committee, Massachusetts State Federation of Labor, 60 Pemberton Square, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 25, In regard to the case of Miss Filomena di Cesare, I beg to enclose you copy of letter which I have just written Mr. D. D'Alessandro, which you will please accept as equally addressed to yourself. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*575*] COPIED. APR 7- 1911 Washington, D. C. April 6, 1 E.M. Nockels, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Telegram received. Am remaining in Washington. There is no necessity for my coming to Chicago tomorrow or in the immediate future. What do you think of approaching representative men both sides of building trades contention and have them select representatives come to Washington and confer with representatives Building Trades Department and me? Wire answer. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[*576*] COPIED. APR 7- 1911 M April 7. 1911. NO. 37. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: On March 15, 1910, by document No. 28, there was submitted to the Executive Council the wage scale of Mineral Water Bottlers Union No. 11317 of Nevark, N. J. The scale was approved by the Executive Council. The union secured its adoption and without any controversy. The Secretary of Local No. 11317 now submits scale for 1911, which is practically the same as the scale approved by the Executive Council for 1910 except Article [V.?] To that article is adding " a days work $3.50 per day." Copy of the scale is enclosed herein to take effect May 1, 1911 to April 30, 1912. Local No. 11317 was chartered June 9, 1903, and has paid per capita tax for the past year as follows: April 1910 50 members May " " " June " " " July " " " Aug. " " " Sept. " " " Oct. " " " Nov. " " " Dec. " " " Jan. 1911 " " Feb. " " " March " " "577 E. C. 2. At present we are paying benefits to Bed Spring Makers Union No. 12103, New York City - five weeks, and to Tobacco Strippers Union No. 12722, Bayamon, P. R. - six weeks. The executive Council has endorsed the wage scale of Federal Labor Union No. 7087, Belleville, Illinois, Undertakers Union No. 9049, San Francisco, Cal., 50 members: Baggage Messengers Union #10567, 50 members: Paste Makers Union #10[66]7, 20 members. The question submitted to the Executive Council for a note is: Shall the wage scale of Mineral Water Bottlers No. 13317 be approved, and the members thereof be entitled to go on strike in the enforcement of same. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.April 9, 1911. Mr. C. H. Thompson, Organizer, 577 Bond St., Astoria, Oregon. Dear Sir and Brother! We are in receipt of a letter from Secretary [???] of the Oregon State Federation of Labor, recommending that admission be issued to the members of the Executive Board of the Oregon State Federation of Labor for the State of Oregon. In compliance with this request and recommendation I am sending for [??] separate cover commission as general organizer for the state, and world ask you to return the commission you how hold as volunteer organizer for Astoria and violinity. Wish kind [??], and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I kin, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor[*579*] [*COPIED.*] [*April 8, 1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. Al Ro[????], Secretary, Mineral Water Bottlers Union No. 17317. 82 Valley St., Orange, N.J. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant is at hand, and under separate cover copies of agreement to take effect May 1, 1911. In reply I beg to say that same has been submitted to the Executive Council for approval, and you will be notified when a decision is reached. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor[*580*] LF April 7, 1923 [*COPIED.*] [*April 8 - 1911*] Mr. J. M. Near, Organizer Crookston Minnesota. Dear Sir and Brither: Your favor of the 4th instant, together with your monthly report has been duly received and contents noted. Judging from your letter you are an exceedingly busy man and I can very readily understand that with the many duties devolving upon you as secretary of your local union, president of the Trades Assembly and editor of the "Eye Opener", you have very little time to devote to the work of organizing. However, I am glad that you are doing what you can and I am always glad to hear from you and glad to be of any assistance within my power. As you will note from the instructions to organizers various affiliated national and international unions have made provisions for the payment of varying fees to the A. P. of L. organizers then making application for charters for local unions or their respective trades and callings. The Brick Layers and Masons, International Union, as you know, is not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.581 Mr. J. M. Near - 2 With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*582*] LF April 7, 1911 [*COPIED.*] [*APR 8 - 1911*] Mr. Cal Wyatt, Organizer 25 Third Ave., New York,N.Y. Dear Sir: Your favor of April 6th enclosing clippings from several papers giving accounts of the parade in memory of the New York fire victims of the shirt waist factory, came duly to hand and Mr. Compere wants to thank you very much for your kindness sending the clippings to him. He is very glad indeed to get them. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*583*] LF April 7, 1911 [*COPIED.*] [*APR 8 - 1911*] Mr. Stuart Reid, Organizer Longs Hotel, Hartford, Conn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is received in which you make report of the situation at Norwich, New York as regards the strike of Local Union #12700. I note that you will continue to give this organization whatever assistance you can and I trust you will be successful in securing a final amicable adjustment. Please keep me advised fully in regard to the matter. Wish best wishes for success, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor[*584*] LF April 7, 1911 [*COPIED.*] [*APR 8 - 1911*] Mr. Joseph Maiden, 4th Vice-President Minnesota State Federation of Labor, 281 Banfil St., St. Paul, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your undated favor received today, I beg to say that if you will send me the leaflet to which you refer so that I may know what it is you have in mind, I will be glad to send package of 100 or more, as you request. Hoping to receive your early reply, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor[*585*] LF April 7, 1911 [*COPIED.*] [*APR 8 - 1911*] Mr. James Duncan, Vice-President American Federation of Labor Hancock Building, Quincy, Mess. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find proof of your address on "Efficiency" which I contemplate publishing in the May issue of the American Federationist. Kindly make any changes you may desire and return to me at your earliest convenience. Wish best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor Enclosure:[*586*] [*COPIED. [*APR 8 - 1911*] LF April 7, 1911 When replying kindly refer to Resolution #13. Mr. F. J. McNulty, President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Pierik Bldg., Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to Resolution #13 of the St. Louis Convention as to conference between the representatives of your Brotherhood and the representatives of the Theatrical Stage Employees, will you please advise me immediately if it will be convenient for your representatives to meet in conference here at the headquarters of the A. F. of L. on the morning of April 24th? Please advise me at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor[*587*] X. April 7, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 8 1911*] Mr. James Hawthorne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 771 River Street, Troy, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of April third, I beg to say that I duly received your letter of March the 23d. and am investigating the matter of your complaint against Organizer DlA'essandro. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*588*] April 7, 1911. [*COPIED*] [*APR 8- 1911*] Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant is received, stating that you attended two sessions of the Italian Congress, and enclosing numerous newspaper clippings giving an account of the movement, for which please accept my thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President. American Federation of Labor.[*589*] April 8, 1911. X. [*COPIED. APR 8- 1911*] Mr. J. Al. Heisenbach, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 717 Peoria St., Peru, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 29, in regard to union made cigar boxes, I beg to advise you that Mr. Frank S. Bean, of Wood Workers local union of St. Louis, writes me giving names of the following concerns as manufacturers of union cigar boxes: Maser Cigar and Paper Box Company, 2d. and Elm Streets, St. Louis, Mo. St. Louis Cigar Box Company, 1119 N. Broadway, St. Louis, Mo. J. J. Wiedmann Cigar Box Company, 813-819 Clark Ave., St. Louis, Mo. "This is all of the factories that [??] use our label. We have several cigar factories here that do not use union boxes but enjoy union cigar makers." I am also in receipt of a letter from the District Council of Cincinnati, O., of Amalgamated Wood Workers,/giving the following information: "I have been requested by John G. Meiler , Gen. Sec. of the Amalgamated Wood Workers, to send you a list of the firms of our city that have got the use of the Amalgamated Wood Workers' Union label in their cigar boxes. They are as follows: The Bastian Cigar Box Co., 223 West Liberty St. Cincinnati, O.590 Mr. J. Al. Meisenbach -2- Owen and Sandman Box Company, 18 West Milwaukee Ave., Cincinnati, O. Hoestman Cigar Box Company, 121 Gage Street, Cincinnatti, O. B. Scheffer, Lexington Fike, Covington, Ky." [*COPIED Apr 8- 1911*] Any further information which I get upon this matter will be promptly transmitted to you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.X. April 7, 1911 COPIED. APR 8 - 1911 Mr. Frank S. Bean, St. Louis Legal, Amalgamated Woodworkers' International Union of America, 696 Hancock Ave., St. Louis, MO. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the third instant is received, in which you give me the names of the firms in St. Louis manufacturing cigar boxes bearing the union label. I have transmitted the information to my correspondent, and thank you very much for your attention to the matter. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*592*] X. April 6, 1911. COPIED. APR 8-1911 Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find copy of letter which I have just received from the Secretary of the Honolulu Trades and Labor Council, and also copy of my reply. I am sending the enclosed to you pending further letter from Mr. Chas. Wagner, giving copies of the correspondence which passed between him and the Columbia Knitting Mill of Philadelphia. As soon as I hear from him I will write you further, sending you copies of the entire matter which he sends me. In the meantime you may be able to get some information upon the subject or be of some assistance. Trusting that I may hear from you, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*593*] COPY. HONOLULU TRADES AND LABOR COUNCIL. Secretary's Address, P. O. Box 625. Honolulu, H. I. March 19, 1911. Samuel Gompers, President A. F. of L., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Allow me to draw your attention to the workings of the Columbia Knitting Mills of Philadelphia, Pa. COPIED. APR 8-1911 In answer to their letter of Aug. 17, 1910, and always ready to help to spread the sale of union labeled goods, I got up an order for some of their hosiery and forwarded $12.00 to their address on October 20, 1910. After waiting in vain for three months for some kind of an answer, I wrote to them asking what had become of my money order. Under date of Jan. 12, 1911, they answered, that the goods had been shipped and to send them an affidavit that I had never received them that they may collect from the Express Co. I sent them a statement of facts, he same time requesting them to return the money as the boys got tired of waiting for their hosiery and preferred to have their money back. I have not heard anything more of them since. Now it is my candid opinion that no goods have every been shipped and this firm largely plays on the sympathy of union men and will do more to prejudice people against union made goods than any sweat-shop firm. Take my case for instance. I am personally responsible for the amount collected from the Bros. and will have to dig up out of my own pocket to make good the amount for my too ardent desire to spread the union label. 594 --2-- Of course I could employ a lawyer, pay him a retaining fee of $50.00 and then make him some more additional payments in the endeavor to collect my $12.00, but I am not going to do it. But I do believe the sections of this firm should be [??en] the widest publicity and I would suggest the contents of my leer be published in the Federationist to warn other union men and sympathizers from getting plucked. [Hope?] you will take the matter up in order to protect union men and [the? Union??] label from imposition, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Chas. Wagner.595 COPY Washington, D. C. , April 5, 1911. Mr. Charles Wagner, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, P. O. Box 625, Honolulu, Hawaii. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 19th received and contents noted. You say that on behalf of a number of union men in Hawaii last October you forwarded $12.00 to the Columbia Knitting Mills of Philadelphia, for an order of knit goods, but that thus far you have not received the goods nor refund of the money, although you have written to the Company in regard to the matter. You further say that if you can not straighten it out you will have to refund the $12.00 from your own pocket. In reply I beg to say that if you will send all the cor- respondence which has passed between you and this Company, I will place the matter in the hands of our Organizer in Philadelphia and see if he can straighten it out for you. Hoping to hear from you again at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, (signed) Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. N. B. Send on the correspondence, but in the meantime I will endeavor to have the matter straightened out.596 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] X. April 7, 1911. Mr. Fred P. Brown, Secretary, Massachusetts State District No. 1, International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, 26 Wolcott St., Holyoke, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the seventh instant is received and con- tents noted. In reply I beg to say that arrangements have been made with Mr. Tazelaar to remain in Holyoke until the first of May, and whether he can remain there after that time will depend largely on whether or not it will be essential to transfer him to work in other fields, as there is great pressure being brought upon the office to send organizers to various points. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.597 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] LF April 7, 1911. Mr. C. H. Kitzmiller, Secretary Bemis, West Virginia Dear Sir and Brother: As stated in my letter to you of April first, I wrote to Secretary Meiler of the Amalgamated Woodworkers Inter- national Union, sending him copy of your letter to me and re- questing him to advise me whether his International Union would consent to the withdrawal of the local union you represent from his International and its affiliation to the American Federation of Labor. I am now in receipt of a reply from him, in which he says that you have returned to him the charter which was issued to your organization and that not having any desire to stand in the way of the organization of the men you represent, he recommends that charter should be issued by the A. F. of L., with the under- standing that when circumstances may warrant, the members of your organization who are eligible to membership in existing international unions should be required to transfer to their respective inter- national jurisdictions. You will please find enclosed herein blank form of application for charter which should be filled in and returned598 Mr. C. H. Kitzmiller--2 to this office, together with the requisite charter fee of $5.00 and $5.00 for outfit and supply, when the matter will be given prompt attention. On the back of the blank form of charter should be plainly stated exactly the line of work performed by the applicants and the men they represent, for if it will be found that the men properly come under the jurisdiction of existing organizations, application will be transferred to that International. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. P. S. When sending in your application, please indicate whether Lumber Workers, or Federal Labor Union. COPIED. APR 8- 1911 COPIED. APR [?] 1911599 X. April 6, 1911. COPIED. APR 8-1911 WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #49. Mr. A. E. Kellington, Secretary, International Union of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes, 316 Corn Exchange, Minneapolis, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: In my letter to you of February tenth, to which you re- plied February twenty-fist, I quoted Resolution #49 of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L. which was approved by the convention, directing that the Executive Council should make an investigation of the affairs of the Flour and Cereal Mill Employes' International Union, and directing further under certain conditions that the charter of your International Union should be withdrawn. The Executive Council had this matter under consideration at its meeting held at headquarters last January and referred the entire subject to Secretary Morrison and the undersigned, as you have already been advised. In compliance with the request I made of you for the list of the unions affiliated to your International Union, and the names and addresses of their respective secretaries and the membership represented by each, you furnished me such a list under date of February twenty-first. Your letter showed that there were twenty- nine local unions, represented in your International Union, with a600 Mr. A. E. Kellington -2- membership, including jurisdiction members, of 399. I thereupon addressed a letter to the secretaries of these Locals for the purpose of having your figures verified, and for an expression of opinion from them as to whether in their opinion, under the existing conditions, the International Union should be continued, or whether the locals should become directly affiliated to the A. F. of L. I received replies from twelve unions, repre- senting a membership of 142. Eight of these locals which replied desire direct affiliation to the A' F. of L. Two stated they preferred to remain as they are. The other two expressed no opinion. Your attention is also called to the fact that you as Secretary failed to keep the International Union in good standing and that it was only after Secretary Morrison had called your atten- tion to the fact that resolutions had been received at headquarters stating that the unions adopting such resolutions could not secure any information from you, that you then placed the organization in good standing up to September, 1910, and then on a very greatly reduced membership. For January, 1910, to October 1910, you paid upon a membership of 268. In February you paid for November, December, January and February, on 358. I am sure you will agree with me that even at a rough estimate there must be over 100,000 flour and cereal mill workers in the United States, and that an International Union claiming to represent the men of this trade cannot be recognized as valid when it acknowledges but 29 local unions, comprising a membership of 358. Therefore, I am authorized by the Executive Council to request you to return to this office the charter now held by you for the Flour and Cereal Mill Workers' International Union, and authorized to further advise you that the 29 local unions of your Interna-601 Mr. A. E. Kellington -3- tional Union, as given by you, will be immediately notified of the withdrawal of the charter of the International Union, and that charters will be issued to them free of cost to have them become directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor until such time as through the efforts of the American Federation of Labor, the Flour and Cereal Mill Workers throughout the country shall have become so thoroughly organized into local unions as to warrant the re-organization of the International Body. Please let me hear from you in regard to the above at your early convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*602*] X. April 7, 1911. [*COPIED APR 8-1911*] Mr. Francis Feehan, President, District #5, United Mine Workers of America, 416 Ferguson Block, Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the fifth instant is received, and contents noted. I am glad to learn of the success of your District Annual Convention. Thanks for the report of the Convention, received under separate cover. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Glad that the visit of Bro Mitchell was helpful. I knew it would be. [??? ??? ???] SG603 X. April 6, 1911. COPIED APR 8, 1911 Rev. T. H. Melish, Church of the Holy Trinity, 157 Montague Street, Brooklyn, N. Y. My dear Mr. Melish: Your favor of the fourth instant received and contents noted. In compliance with your request, it affords me pleasure to enclose to you herein letter of introduction to your associate, Rev. Frank Monroe Crouch, who you say leaves for Europe on April 27. I also enclose a list of some of the representative labor men in Germany, France, and England to whom he should present his letter. Reciprocating your good wishes, and the kind regards, I am, Very sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.604 X. April 6, 1911. COPIED APR 8-1911 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This will serve to introduce to you Rev. Frank Monroe Crouch, Associate Pastor of the Church of the Holy Trinity, of Brooklyn, New York, U. S. A. Mr. Crouch is an earnest student of the labor movement and has acted from time to time as fraternal delegate to the Central Labor Union of Brooklyn. He is desirous of meeting representative labor men in the several countries in Europe which he anticipates visiting, and to make such investiga- tion of labor conditions there as his time and opportunities may permit. Any courtesies extended to him will be greatly appreciated by, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*605*] List of Labor men to whom letter of introduction should be presented: Mr. Carl Legien, Int'l. Secretary, National Centres of Trade Unions, Berlin S. O. 16, Engel-Ufer 15, Berlin Germany. [*COPIED APR 8 - 1911*] Mr. M. Baumeister, c/o Mr. Carl Legien. Herr Hans Fehlinger, Hinterbruhl 2, Muenchen 41, Munich, Germany. M. Auguste Keufer, 20 Rue de Savoie, Paris, France. Mr. L. Jouhaux, 33 Rue de la Grange-aux-Belles, Paris, France. Mr. W. A. Appleton, Secretary, General Federation of Trade Unions, 6 Adelphi Terrace, Adam Street, London, England. Mr. W. C. Steadman, Secretary, Mr. C. W. Bowerman, Ass't. Secretary, British Trades Union Congress, 42-44 Effingham House, Arundel St., Strand, London, England.606 X. April 7, 1911. COPIED APR 8-1911 Mr. Franz Podpec, Asslinghnette, (Division) (Abtlg.) Martjnwerk, Krain, Austria. Dear Sir: Your favor of March the 16th has been duly received and contents noted. You request me to give you the addresses of some of the largest and most substantial machine factories, as you de- sire to have an entirely new machine constructed. As you do not state what kind of machine you contemplate having constructed, I am somewhat in doubt as to the manufacturers to whom to direct you, but in any event I quote you a few of the largest and most substantial union machine factories: Allis Chalmeres co., Chicago, Illinois, Hos Printing Press Co., New York, Morgan Engineering Works, Alliance, Ohio. General Electric Co., Schnectady, N. Y. I should say further that the Allis Chalmers Company makes any machine from a needle to a battleship. Trusting that this information may be of assistance to you, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.607 X. April 7, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 8- 1911*] Mr. P. J. Conlon, Vice-President, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the fifth instant is received, quoting the large machine factories working under a union agreement or under- standing as to hours, wages, etc., for which please accept my thanks. The information has been transmitted to my Austrian correspondent. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.608 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] X. April 6, 1911. Mr. L. A. Barth, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 3009 N. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: I want to thank you for your favor of the fourth instant and for the prompt action taken by your Central Labor Union in compliance with my recent letter requesting that a committee be appointed by your Central Body to wait upon the stove dealers in your city and officially and formally advise them of the friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company. The copy of the letter you enclose that you wrote to Messrs. Rhodes and Burford meets with my entire approval. Again thanking you for your prompt attention to the mat- ter, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.609 [*COPIED. APR 8 1911*] X. April 6, 1911. Mr. Henry W. Hoops, Jr., 331 Orange Road, Montclair, New Jersey. Dear Sir: Your favor of the fourth instant is rece[i]ved and contents noted. It is impossible for me to say now when I shall again go to New York City. In the meantime, I would suggest that you kindly write me again indicating just what it is about which you wish to see me, and it may be that the next time I go over I can arrange an hour when we can meet. Of course, you understand that my trips to New York are always business trips, and that I am exceedingly busily engaged practically every hour of my stay there. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, [No signature] President, American Federation of Labor.610 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] LF April 7, 1911 Mr. W. D. Mahon, President, Amal. Assn. of Street and Electric Railway Employes 601 Hodges Bldg., Detroit, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother; Your favor of the 5th instant is received and contents noted. I shall await with interest your article upon the benefit features of trade unions. I know it will be valuable and in- teresting. I also note your recommendation as to my report to the Atlanta Convention, and due note will be made thereof. Now as to your next annual convention, which you say will meet in St. Joseph on Monday, September 11th, it is impossible now to make any definite promise as to whether I can attend. I shall be glad to do so if it be at all possible, but I think it is exceedingly doubtful. First, there is the uncertainty of the decision of the Supreme Court on our appeal case. It has not yet been rendered, nor do we know when it will be handed down. If the Supreme Court does not sustain our contention, then of course it means that Secretary Morrison, Vice-President Mitchell and I will be called upon to serve the sentences of six, nine and twelve months imprisonment as imposed by Justice Wright. On the other hand, the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. usually holds its last meeting611 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] Mr. W. D. Manon--2 before the convention in the middle of September. If that meeting is held this year, it will be just about the time when your con- vention assembles. However, I will make a memorandum of the date of your convention and if I can attend it, I will certainly be glad to do so. With best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.612 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] LF April 7, 1911 Mr. John G. Meilor, Amal. Woodworkers Intl. Union of America, 3538 North Albany Ave., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant is received and contents noted. Acting upon your recommendation, I have written to Mr. C. H. Kitzmiller of Bemis, West Virginia, sending him blank form of application for charter, advising him that you, on behalf of your International Union, would offer no objection to the men he represents being chartered direct by the American Federation of Labor. I have requested him to indicate plainly and fully on the application for charter just what is the nature of the work performed by the men, for it may be that they would properly come under the jurisdiction of the International Brotherhood of Woodsmen and Saw Mill Workers. If so, of course the charter application will be transferred to that International Union. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.613 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] LF April 7, 1911 Mr. Wm. J. Spencer, Secretary. Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., 412 Ouray Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is at hand, In which you advise me of the conversation Congressman Roberts of Nevada had with you yesterday. I beg to say that Mr. Roberts also called me up over the phone and I have made arrangements to see him in the course of a few days, for the purpose of discussing legislation in which labor is interested. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*614*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911] LF April 6, 1911 Mr. J. J. Switzer, Secretary Federal Labor Union #12475 Hawley, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 4th is received and contents noted. Your letter is in continuation of our previous correspondence in regard to the Union Label contract between your organization and Mr. Harry Kays, who manufactures canvass gloves. You say that Mr. Kays employs no one to assist him in the work except a son and daughter, that he pays them at the rate of 12c per dozen, that at this rate they make from $1.50 to $1.75 per day of nine hours. There is another question yet to be taken up before decision is given as to whether Mr. Kays could be granted the use of the American Federation of Labor label. Are his son and daughter members in good standing [?] F. L. U, #12475? If they are, then there is no reason why, in view of the above conditions, Mr. Kays should not be granted the use of the A. F of L. label upon the canvass gloves he manufactures. However, for this to be done, it must be clearly understood that the duly appointed officer of your union must be the guardian of the labels as they are purchased from this office and that only a sufficient number of labels is given out to Mr. Kays at one time to cover one week's work, and no[*615*] Mr. J. J. Switzer--2 more. The officer of your organization must be thoroughly satisfied that there is no accumulation of labels on hand by Mr. Kays. Hoping to hear from you further, with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. [*April 7, 1911*] [*April 6, 1911*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*]616 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] Mr. Edwin A. Brown, Alexandria Hotel, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir: Your favor of March 29th duly received and contents noted. I beg to say that I am in sympathy with your idea as to the free Municipal Emergency Home, that is, as far as I can understand it from your letter. I would like you to write me more fully with such suggestions as you may care to make and any proposition which you have in mind as to the way in which I could be of assistance. Hoping to hear from you further, I remain, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*617*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] LF April 7,1911 Miss Elena M Price, 212 Blount St., Raleigh, N. C. My dear Madam: Your favor of the fifth instant is received and contents noted. I have just written to Mr. W. H. Singleton, one of the official representatives of the American Federation of Labor in Raleigh in regard to the matter of conferring with you upon the subject of organizing the stenographers of Raleigh. Enclosed you will please find duplicate copy of my letter to Mr. Singleton. I have no doubt that you will hear from him at an early date. I ask you kindly to accept the communication enclosed as part of this letter to you. I shall be glad to hear from you further upon the subject at any time you may feel disposed to write, and shall await with interest Mr. Singleton's report as to what the prospects are for organizing the stenographers of Raleigh. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:618 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911] LF April 7, 1911 Mr. W. H. Singleton, Organizer, 326 Oakwood Ave., Raleigh, N. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I have recently received several letters from Miss Elena M Pace, 212 Blount St., Raleigh, North Carolina in regard to the matter of organizing the stenographers and typewriters of your city. Miss Pace is employed as a stenographer she informs me, and is greatly interested in the welfare of the stenographers and typewriters and very desirous of forming an organization of these workers in the city of Raleigh. Her first letter to me was marked confidential and in reply to her I stated that in view of her letter being so marked, I hesitated to take the matter up with the American Federation of Labor representative in Raleigh and vicinity. I however gave her your name and the name of Mr. [Pesperman?], Secretary of the Central Labor Union and suggested that she should get into communication with both of you. She now writes me that as she has not the time to take any active part in the movement, she says she hesitated to call upon you, but that if there is anything which you can do with her assistance, she will be most grateful. She further says that she could furnish a list of stenographers of Raleigh, but that she does[*619*] Mr. W. H. Singleton--2 does not care to have her name associated publicly with the movement to organize them. I would, therefore, suggest that you get in communication with Miss Pace, arrange for a mutually convenient time to confer with her and get the necessary information from her in regard to the names and addresses of the stenographers in your city and see what can be done in the way of awakening their interest in the matter of forming an organization. You will of course not fail to regard Miss Pace's request that her name be not associated publicly with the movement. Trusting that you will give this matter your early attention, and asking you to let me hear from you in regard thereto, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*620*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] Washington, D. C., April 9. 1911 Will Daly, c/o D. W. Robinson, 224 Columbia Street, Portland, Oregon. Telegram received. Organizer Young must carry out itinerary assigned him when he can return to Portland for a limited period. It has also been arranged that he shall spend sometime at Spokane. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. (Charge A. F. of L.)[*621*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 9, 1911, Mr. William Feinauer, Organizer, 64 South Logan St., Fremont, Nebraska. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of March 29, relative to the stationary engineers not being represented in the Central Labor Union, I beg to say that I took the matter up Secretary Hannahan of the International Union of Steam Engineers, and am in receipt of reply as follows: "Received your favor of March 29th. In reply desire to state that we have no local in Fremont, Nebraska. The only locals we have in Nebraska are in Omaha and Lincoln." Perhaps you have reference to the Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen. We have an International of Steam Engineers, and also of Stationary Firemen. As your letter says Stationary Engineers, we took the matter up with Secretary Hannahan, but as he states he has no local in Fremont, we will await advice from you before taking the matter up with the International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*622*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. P. J. O'Brien, 229 Clinton Ave., Albany, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 2nd is at hand, and in compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover a package of organizer's letter heads. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*623*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. G. C. Zwaily, Secretary, Lodge No. 57, Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, Shreveport, Louisiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of March 31st was received here April 5th, in which you request the names of some standard shoes that are Union made. In reply I beg to enclose to you herein list of manufacturers using the union label, published by the Union Local Trades Department of the A. F. of L., and on pages 18-26 you will find the firms using the Boot and Shoe Workers label. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.624 M April 6, 1911. COPIED APR 8-1911 Mr. William A Nord, Principal, Arroyo Grande Union High School, Arroyo Grande, California. Dear Sir: Your favor of March 31st was received here April 7th, in which you state you are preparing for a debate on the question of the "open and close shop", and propound several questions which you wish me to answer. As I have discussed the question of the union shop so fully in editorials in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST and there are so many requests made to me for information along this line I had these editorials published in pamphlet form and send copy to you under separate cover, together with a copy of a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases", by Frank K. Foster. Your attention is also called to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow entitled "The Open Shop", published by the Hammersis rk Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Illinois. I am sure you will appreciate the fact that as the subject is so fully discussed in the printed matter I am sending you and to which I referred you, that in view of the many demands made upon my time I can not undertake in an individual letter to discuss625 [???] it at greater length. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*626*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. John R. Clark, Organizer, Temple, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of recent date is received, in which you request that your commission be renewed and forwarded to you, and in reply would say that this will be done upon its expiration, April 18. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*627*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. Walter Koester, 2504 Olive St., Cedar Falls, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your favor of March 30th is at hand, in which you request some material for a debate on the Canadian Industrial Disputes Act, and 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 the editor, and consult the issues of March and April 1901, you could find several editorials which I wrote upon that subject. Also if you could refer to the Annals of the American Society of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you could secure some very valuable matter as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon this subject. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*628*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. John Partington, 2515 Olive St., Cedar Falls, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 1st instant is at hand, in which you request material on the Canadian Industrial Disputes Act, and 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 the editor, and consult the issues of March and April 1901, you could find several editorials which I wrote upon that subject. Also if you could refer to the Annals of the American Society of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you could secure some very valuable matter as that issue contains a number of addresses delivered upon this subject. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.629 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. V. E. Wasser, 1107 Duff Avenue, Ames, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 5th instant is at hand, in which you request some material on the Canadian Industrial Disputes Act, and 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 the editor, and consult the issues of March and April, 1901, you could find several editorials which I wrote upon that sub- ject. Also if you could refer to the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you could secure some very valuable matter as that issue contains a number of addresses de- livered upon this subject. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*630*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. James M. Lynch, President, International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant is at hand, in which you state that you are in receipt of a letter from Local 253, in which they request you write this office to have Organizer Tevelaar remain in Holyoke. In reply I beg to say that we shall endeavor to have Organizer Tevelaar remain in Holyoke just as long as we possibly can. I can not now say definitely when it will be necessary to send him to another field, but you can rest assured we will do our best to comply with the request of organized labor in Holyoke. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.631 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] LF April 8,1911 Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, 25 Third Ave., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I would appreciate it very much if you would obtain for me two copies of a pamphlet entitled "Shop Management" by Frederick W. Taylor, price 90c each. This pamphlet can be gotten from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 25 West 35th St., New York, N. Y. Thanking you in advance for your compliance with the above, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.632 April 8, 1911 COPIED APR 8, 1911 Mr. Charles E. Watson, Box 243. Salina, Kansas. Dear Sir: I am directed by President Gompers to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 2nd instant, and to thank you for the interesting clipping you enclose. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 633 AH April 8, 1911 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Mr. Price Watson is hereby duly authorized to install the officers and initiate the members of Federal Labor Union #13189, Carterville, Ill. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. COPIED APR 8- 1911634 X. April 8, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 8 1911*] Mr. W. W. Hawkins, Secretary, Locomotive Hostlers and Helpers, #11894, Box 94, Crewe, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of [March] April 5, I beg to advise you that the entire subject matter of the contemplated action of your local in connection with the other local unions employed in the shops of the Norfolk and Western Railway Company in the matter of improved conditions of employment, wages, hours, etc., has been submitted to the Executive Council of the A. F. of L., together with copy of the Constitution and by-laws of the Norfolk and Western [xxxx] Federated Trades as adopted at the meeting of March 22. Just as soon as a decision is reached by the Executive Council, you will be promptly advised. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*635*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] Z April 8, 1911. NO. 34. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: Under date of March 29th I am in receipt of a letter from Mr. P. J. Conlon, First Vice-President of the International Association of Machinists, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will note upon reading his letter that in all probability the Locomotive Hostlers and Helpers' Union No. 11894 of Roanoke , Va., will have become involved in a strike with the several other local unions whose members are employed by the Norfolk and Western Railway Company. You will further note that these several organizations have affiliated under the title of Norfolk and Western Federated Trades, with the purpose of securing, through united action of all of the crafts represented in the Norfolk and Western Shops better conditions and better wages for the men. A copy of the constitution of the Norfolk & Western Federated Trades is enclosed herein. You will further note that the different organizations whose members are employed in the shops all along the Norfolk & Western system are now voting upon the proposition of whether a strike shall be called. The vote, if affirmative, to be sub-[*636*] EXECUTIVE COUNCIL---2. to the executive officers of the various National and International Unions involved for their official sanction. The only local union directly affiliated to the A. F. of L. represented in this Norfolk & Western Federated Trades, as I am advised, is Locomotive Hostelers and Helpers' Union #11894 of Roanoke, Va.. Of course should a strike be sanctioned by the different International Unions whose locals are involved this would also involve a strike of Local #11894. Therefore, in the event of a strike being called, the following preposition is submitted for the vote of the Executive Council: In the event of the members of Local #11894 of Roanoke, Va., becoming involved in a strike through the united action of the various local unions whose members are employed in the shops of the Norfolk & Western Railway Company, shall its members thereby become eligible to financial assistance from the defense fund of the A. F. of L. for the same period of time as strike benefits are allowed by the several International Unions to their respective locals: Local #11899 was chartered May 22, 1905, and has paid per capita tax from April, 1910, up to and including March, 1911, upon fifty members each month. The Executive Council has approved the wage scales of #7087 of Belleville, Illinois, on 55 members. Of Undertakers' Union #9048, San Francisco, 50 members. Of Baggage Messengers' Union #10167, San Francisco, 50 members. Of Paste Makers' Union #10587, San Francisco, 20 members.637 Executive Council --3 Benefits are now being paid to Bed Spring Makers' Union #13108, New York City, on thirty members, and to Tobacco Workers Union #12722, of Porto Rico, on 13 members. In explanation of the delay in submitting this matter to the Executive Council, it should be said that this letter was dictated on March 31, and has been held waiting the receipt of the Constitutions from Roanoke. Please return your vote upon the above at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. In connection with the first paragraph of Mr. Conlon's letter it should be stated that our records show that his commission as volunteer organizer does not expire until May 5, 1911.638 COPY. INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS. Washington, D. C. March 29, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, City. Dear Sir and Brother: I deem it my duty as one of your organizers - although my commission expired March 5th and has not been renewed - to acquaint you with a situation of affairs on the Norfolk & Western Ry. you should be familiar with, as it involves a federal union known as Locomotive Hostlers & Helpers Union 11894 of Roanoke, Va. To make a long story short I will say that the different crafts on this system individually tried to secure improved rules and a wage increase at various times this Spring, and failed in each case, so they decided to federate and attack the Company jointly. A meeting was called for that purpose at Roanoke. March 20th and 8 crafts affiliated with international organizations affiliated with the A. F. of L., presented credentials: and, this federal organization 11894 of the A. F. of L. The Convention was in session five days, adopted by-laws - copy of which I enclose - and also drew up a joint schedule to cover all crafts in the federation. The advisability of affiliating with the Railway Department was discussed, and for the present it was deemed inadvisable as it offered too many complications to mix shop and transportation department organizations, and try to secure a joint schedule that would fit both branches of the railroad industry. The question of affiliating with the Metal Trades Department was discussed and it offered complications on account of the local federation having the Railway Car Men which organization is not represented internationally with the Metal Trades Department. So for the time being it was decided to keep the organization intact as a voluntary organization for present purposes639 -2- and take to the question of affiliation later. Now the matter I want to get at is this. Our general committee presented the General Manager of the N. & W. with a copy of the joint rules and an increased rate of five cents per hour in the rates of all hourly men represented in the federation, and a proportionate increase to men working piece work. The General Manager empathetically refused to entertain any demand for an increase in wages, but would consider the rules after three days conference he offered a set of revised rules and insisted on them being placed before the men for acceptance without any increase. You appreciate the refusal of the men to accept the rules offered in equivalent to a strike vote and all men in the [fed- eration?] so understand it. The vote is now being taken all [points?] in the system with instruction if an affirmative vote is received it shall be at once sent to respective International headquarters for official sanction. I am writing you so that if you receive the vote from local 11894, that you will understand the situation. This local was represented in the Federation by a delegate named W. W. [?aw?s]. I have underscored the by-laws at essential places so that you can appreciate the requirements at a glance. I might say in closing I was at this meeting representing the Machinists. Five other international officers were also in attendance from the Boilermakers, Plumbers, Sheet Metal workers, Blacksmith and Painters. Fraternally yours, (Signed: F. J. Eccles First [Vice?]-President[*640*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] Z April 8, 1911. Mr. Ralph M. Hasley, Chairman, National Civic Federation, 10096 Metropolitan Building, New York, N. Y. My dear Mr. Hasley: In conformity with the promise I made you you will please find enclosed herein copy of the article I wrote upon the National Civic Federation for the General Federation of Trade Unions of Great Britain, entitled "An Industrial Experiment". It was published in the official proceedings of that organization from July 1901, to June, 1902. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*641*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. George P. Hedrick, President, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant is at hand, and contents noted. In accordance therewith it affords me pleasure to issue commission to you as general volunteer organizer for the United States. I am also sending 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. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.642 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] Z April 8, 1911. Mr. John R. Alpine, United Association of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters and Steam Fitters Helpers of the U. S. and Canada, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Mr. W. M. Davies, Secretary, International Association of Steam and Hot Water Fitters and Helpers of America, Room 205 Merrick Building, 351 West 63rd St, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sirs and Brothers: For several days telegrams were received at this office making inquiries whether I expected to go to Chicago during the latter part of this week. I had made no arrangements to be there, hence replied in the negative; at the same time I telegraphed Mr. E. W. Nockles, Secretary of the Chicago Federation of Labor, who was one of those making telegraphic inquiry, that I should be pleased to have him approach the representative men among the Building Trades for the purpose of having them select some repre- sentatives to come to Washington and confer with representative officials of the Building Trades Department and me. The existing contention in the Building Trades Department of Chicago as well as of the entire country impel me to this suggestion.643 Mr. John M. Alpine, Mr. W. M. Davies------------2------ In connection therewith this fact must also be borne in mind, that at the January meeting of the Executive Council the Building Trades Department submitted the subject of the action of that Department's St. Louis convention respecting the Inter- national Association of Steam and Hot Water Fitters, etc.; the Executive Council having this matter under advisement at the January meeting, it authorize the President of the American Federa- tion of Labor to co-operate with the offices of the Building Trades Department for the purpose of brining about the amalgam- tion of the International Association of Steam and Hot Water Fitters, etc. and the United Association of Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters, etc. As already stated, having the Chicago and other local situations in mind as well as the general instructions of the Executive Council, it seemed to me that if the representatives of the two organizations primarily in interest in this controversy, that is the Plumbers and Steam Fitters, were to select their duly constituted representatives to meet with the offices of the Build- ing Trades Department as well as myself and such other associates of the A. F. of L. whom I could bring to council, the awful situation which now presents itself might be obviated or overcome and the plans laid whereby harmonious relations could be established with the view of unity and amalgamation. It is quite evident that these contentions are not only injuring the organized labor movement but must necessarily result to the detriment of the men engaged in the plumbing and steamfitting trades as well as in the entire building trades.[*644*] Mr. John R. Alpine Mr. W. H. Davies, -------- 3 ---------- Not only for the purpose of carrying out the direct instruction of the Executive Council but with the additional purpose of being of some service to the men in the organizations primarily interested, the good name of our cause, and its future welfare, I write to ask whether the representatives of your organizations will not send duly constituted officers or representatives of your respective International Unions to meet at Washington. D. C., on Monday, April 17th, the officers of the Building Trades Department, and the undersigned to be the present at the conference in the endeavor to be helpful im the course suggested in the foregoing. Kindly wire me if the date suggested would be agreeable to you. Trusting that the suggestions may commend themselves to your favorable consideration and action and that I may hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am Sincerely and fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*645*] [*COPIED. APR 8- 1911*] X. April 8, 1911. Mr. E. N. Nockels, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 295 La Salle Street, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my telegram in regard to the Building Trades situation, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of the letter which I have just sent to President Alpine, of the United Association of Plumbers, and to Secretary Davies, of the International Association of Steam and Hot Water Fitters. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.646 X. April 7, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] Mr. S. H, Swinney, Editor, The Positivist Review, c/o Watts and Company, 17 Johnson's Court, East Cheap Side, London, England. Dear Sir: I am sure you will be surprised to have a letter from me, but I feel that the cause which prompts me to write will be justified in your eyes. The great interest which you have felt in the cause of the toiling masses, your contributions respective to them, and because I know that you are associated with the Positivist movement and that you had some correspondence with and knew of a great trade unionist and Positivist in Mr. Hugh McGregor, I have to announce, and announce it with the greatest regret and sympathy, that Hugh McGregor is no more; that he passed from this life the morning of February twenty-fifth. It is not my purpose to pronounce an eulogy upon the late Mr. McGregor, but I cannot refrain from saying that I have been associated with him for nearly forty years and that he has been true to himself and true to his fellow man and that his great attain- ments and knowledge were always at the command of the struggling masses for better conditions and for a brighter and better day. I count it a privilege to have been permitted to know well so magni-647 Mr. S.H. Swinney -2- ficent a character and so sterling a man as the late Hugh McGregor. With profound respect, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*][*648*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] X. April 8, 1911. Mr. Frederic V. Gardner, Manager, Buck's Stove and Range Company, Southern Hotel, St. Louis, Mo. My dear Mr. Gardner: In continuation of our recent correspondence, I enclose to you herein copy of a letter written by the Central Labor Union of Indianapolis to the agents for your products in that city. The letter is self-explanatory, and was written in response to the general letter I sent out to the cities where your agents experienced difficulty in regard to organized labor. With best wishes, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.649 [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] COPY. CENTRAL LABOR UNION. Indianapolis, Ind., April 1, 1911. Messrs. Rhodes and Burford, #111 E. Washington St., City. Gentlemen: Acting upon the advice of President Samuel Gompers, of the A. F. of L., the Indianapolis Central Labor Union, at its last meeting, instructed me to "Officially" notify you, as agents, that the Buck's Stove and Range Co. is fair to Organized Labor and is indorsed by the A. F. of L. and the General Labor Union of this city. In furthering the request of Pres. Gompers, I inclose you copy of letter and circular, as printed in the minutes of the last regular meeting. I know of no better way of giving "the greatest possible publicity" referred to in the same, than by giving you permission to publish this letter for advertising purposes if you so desire. Very respectfully yours, (Signed} L. A. Barth, Secretary.[*650*] [*COPIED. APR 8-1911*] X. April 7, 1911. Mr. Allen L. Benson, c/o Pearson's Magazine, New York City. My dear Mr. Benson: I want again to say that I enjoyed our very interesting conversation yesterday, at which we discussed several matters, particularly the order of the Second Assistant Post Master General in regard to the Postal Clerks. In connection therewith, I am sure you will be interested in a circular letter which Senator LaFollette has just sent out in regard to the order issued by the Second Assistant Post Master General. I enclose to you herein copy of that circular letter, together with blank form of questions to which reference is made therein. I think these will be helpful to you in preparing your article. I have not yet had a chance to look over that letter which I read to you yesterday on the questions and answers. I hope to do so in a day or two and to send copy of it to you. You will not fail of course when your article comes out to let me know, so that I may get a copy of the magazine. We get a number of the magazines at headquarters, but I do not believe we receive Pearson's Magazine. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.651 RAILWAY MAIL SERVICE Office of Supt.________Div. ______________________, Mar, 15, 1911. Sir: I herewith quote you a letter received from the Department: "Referring to the reports that postal clerks at various points are forming lodges of secret organizations of railway postal clerks, I desire that steps be taken at once to acquaint all in the service that such action is regarded as inimical to the interests of the Government. All clerks, when they enter the service, take an oath to well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office to which they are appointed and to perform all duties required of them and to abstain from everything forbidden by the laws in relation to post offices and post roads. It is incompatible with their obligation to the department that they should assume another oath with a secret organization in the service which may at any time interfere with the obligations which they have assumed upon entering the service. This is not to be construed as interfering with any right which a clerk may have of acting personally and individually with reference to organizations outside the postal service. You are directed to advise all railway postal clerks as to these principals of employment and views here expressed and that they shall be governed thereby." Please do not publish this in your orders, but let it go out by word of mouth. Very respectfully,652 GENERAL ORDER NO. 1904. LAST PAGE PAGE THREE. [?] [?] NOTICE- Post Office Department Second Assistant Postmaster General, Division of Railway Mail Service, Washington. D.C., March 13, 1911. Mr. E. J. Ryan, Sup't R.M.S., Boston, Mass. Sir: I am sending you herewith a copy of a letter from the Honorable Second Assistant Postmaster General in regard to the re- ported movement among the clerks to organize lodges of secret organi- zation in the service. Please publish the same in your General Orders for the information and guidance of the clerks. Respectfully, ALEX GRANT, General Superintendent Post Office Department, Office of Second Ass't Postmaster General, Washington, D.C., March 13, 1911 [?] Alex Grant, General Sup't. Division of Railway Mail Service. Sir: Referring to the reports that postal clerks at various points are forcing Lodge of secret organizations of railway postal clerks. I desire that steps be taken at once to acquaint all is the service that such action is regarded as [initial?] to the interests of the Government. All clerks when they enter the service take an [oath] to well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office to which they are appointed and to perform all the duties required of them to abstain from everything forbidden by the laws in relation to [post?] office and post [roads?]. It is incompatible with their [obligation?] the Department that they should assume another oath with a [secret?] organization in the service which may at any time interfere with obligations which they have [?] upon entering the service. is not to be construed as interfering with any right which a [?] may have of acting personally and individually with reference [organizations] outside of the postal service. You are directed to advice all railway postal [clers?] to these principles of employment and views here expressed they shall be governed thereby. Very respectfully, JOSEPH STEWART, Second Ass't Postmas'653 GENERAL ORDER NO. 1904 LAST PAGE PAGE THREE Sec [?] NOTICE Post Office Department Second Assistant Postmaster General, Division of Railway Mail Service, Washington, D.C., March 13, 1911. Mr. E. J. Ryan, Sup't R.M.S., Boston, Mass. Sir: I am sending you herewith a copy of a letter from the Honorable Second Assistant Postmaster General in regard to the reported movement among the clerks to organize lodges of secret organization in the service. Please publish the same in your General Orders for the information and guidance of the clerks. Respectfully, ALEX GRANT, General Superintendent Post Office Department, Office of Second Ass't Postmaster General, Washington, D.C., March 13, 1911 [?] Alex Grant, General Sup't. Division of Railway Mail Service. Sir: Referring to the reports that postal clerks at various points are forcing Lodge of secret organizations of railway postal clerks. I desire that steps be taken at once to acquaint all is the service that such action is regarded as inimical to the interests of the Government. All clerks when they enter the service take an oath to well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office to which they are appointed and to perform all the duties required of them and to abstain from everything forbidden by the laws in relation to post office and post roads. It is incompatible with their obligation to the Department that they should assume another oath with a secret organization in the service which may at any time interfere with the obligations which they have assumed upon entering the service. This is not to be construed as interfering with any right which a clerk may have of acting personally and individually with reference to organizations outside of the postal service. You are directed to advice all railway postal clerks as to these principles of employment and views here expressed they shall be governed thereby. Very respectfully, JOSEPH STEWART, Second Ass't Postmaster General.[*654*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] LF Washington, D.C., April 10 1 Mr. M. F. Ryan, 503 Hall Building, Kansas City, Mo. Please wire me immediately whether your Brotherhood will be represented in conference with Painters this city April twentieth. Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor (Charge to A. F. of L.)[*655*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] LF Washington, D.C., April 10 1 Mr. J. C. Skemp, Drawer 99, Lafayette Ind. Am endeavoring to arrange conference on April nineteenth for this city between Carriage and Wagon Workers, Blacksmiths and Upholsterers as per Resolution twenty-two. Please wire if your Brotherhood can be represented at time and place stated, Will telegraph you regarding conference of the twentieth. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor (Charge to A. F. of L.)[*656*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] LF Washington, D. C. April 10 1 J. W. Kline 670 Monon Building, Chicago, Ill. Please wire immediately if your Brotherhood will be represented conference this city April nineteenth. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. (Charge A. F. of L.)[*657*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Washington, D. C., April 10, 1911 Will Herman 2034 DeWey Ave., Granite City, Ill. Telegram received. Course pursued by number eight absolutely wrongful. Ten nine four three can not be permitted to act as indicated in your telegram Important letter upon this subject follows. I urge that charter of number eight be not sent to Pittsburg. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[*658*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Y. April 7, 1911. Mr. Hugh B. Ridgeway; Stanmore, Elsbourne Road, Tooting Common, London, S. W. Dear Sir: Your favor under date of February 14 has just reached me, it having been sent across the continent to Seattle, Washington, instead of Washington, D. C. I hasten now, however to reply, and informed you that under separate cover, I am sending to you copy of a speech made by the Honorable Robert L. Owen, United States Senator from Oklahoma, on June 15, 1909. This speech contains under one cover elaborate tables of wages paid to skilled and unskilled workmen in the various branches of industry in the chief American cities. They are official, obtained either from the reports of the Bureau of Statistics, the Bureau of Labor or the Census Bureau. By a careful study of these tables you will obtain most realistic information, and when read with the text of the speech, you will see how potential the labor organizations of the United States have been in securing for themselves protection in their wage rates. Permit me to call your attention to a few of the tables[*659*] Mr. Hugh B. Ridgeway----2 commencing on page 43, you will note tables of wages covering all occupations in railroad employment, 1897 to 1907. This you will observe, embraces general officers, men in train operation, mechanics in shops and unskilled labor. Since 1907, the last date those tables covered, there has been further increases obtained by the men in train operation, mechanics in shops, telegraph operators, etc. amounting to an average of about 7-1/2 per cent. increase over the whole country. These tables, you will observe, are continued in groups covering the whole United States, on pages 44 and 45. On pages 46 and 47, you will see a very complete and comprehensive table of wages paid to the mechanics in the building trades, specifying each occupation, the rate of pay received per hour in 47 different cities of the United States; these wages may be considered standard in adjoining localities and are complete to January 1, 1909. Since that time some increases have been obtained in some of the localities enumerated. On pages, 48, 49, 50, 51 52, 53, 54, you will see the last official statement made by the United States Bureau of Labor of wages paid and average hours per week worked in a number of manufacturing industries, ranging from clothing to silk goods, in alphabetical order. You will also observe explanatory foot-notes following the total of each occupation, showing per centage of wages in comparison to product paid to workers, together with information showing the amount of tariff on the several products and theMr. Hugh B. Ridgway----S condition of organization among the employed in these occupations; the greatest lesson of which may be learned is that only in those trades that are well organized are the wages adequate. There are many volumes of documents in existence in the United States giving wage rates, etc., but none to my knowledge, that is more complete and more comprehensive than the tables contained in this speech I am now sending you, and which are perfectly reliable. Hoping that this may answer your purpose, and that you will feel perfectly free to call upon me for any further information I may be able to impart, I remain, Yours very truly, President, American Federation of Labor.[*661*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] M April 10, 1911 Mr. J. P. Anderson, Organizer, 1806 Henrietta Street, East St. Louis, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you request that the commission you hold for East St. Louis and vicinity be changed to General. In reply I beg to say that I will be glad to issue you commission as general volunteer organizer of the United States if you will forward me the endorsement of the International Union of which you are a member, to this effect. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you further, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.662 [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] M April 10, 1911. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenteral Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Sometime ago I wrote you relative to your local in Elkhart, Indiana, not being represented in the Central Labor Union. In reply dated March 12, you say that you have been in communication with your Elkhart union on this subject, and hope to be able to prevail upon them to again take up their affiliation with the Central Labor Union. Under date of April 7th we are in receipt of another letter from the secretary of the Central Labor Union, in which he says the Carpenters Local Union No. 565 has not joined the Central Body. I wish you take this matter up again with your local union, and let me hear from you in regard thereto. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.663 [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] M April 10, 1911. Mr. J. H. Sheckels, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 908 Bower St., Elkhart, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th instant is at hand, and I note what you say relative to the local union of Carpenters not yet having joined the Central Labor Union. In reply I beg to say that I am by this mail writing to Secretary Frank Duffy of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, calling this matter to his attention, and will advise you upon receipt of his reply. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.664 [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] M April 8, 1911. Mr. M. R. Stoper, 608 West McGherry St., Normal, Ill. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 30th instant is at hand, in which you state you are working up a debate on the subject of Compulsory Arbitra- tion of labor disputes, and you desire an expression of opinion from me. Replying thereto I beg to say that the American Federation of Labor has declared in favor of voluntary arbitration, and is op- posed to compulsory arbitration. It may not be amiss to call your attention to a statement which I made in an address before the Arbi- tration Congress, held in Chicago, December 17, 1900, which is as follows: "Arbitration is only possible when voluntary. It never can be successfully carried out unless the parties to a dispute or controversy are equals, or nearly equals, in power to protect or defend themselves, or to inflict injury upon the other party." I am sending to you herein copy of this address which was published in pamphlet form. I would also suggest that if you have a file of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST that you should refer to my ed- itorials upon this subject in the FEDERATIONIST for March and April665 M. R. S. 2. issues, 1901. Also if you can refer to the annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, July 1902, you can find some helpful matter in that as that issue contains a number of ad- dresses delivered upon that subject. "Compulsory courts could not enforce their decrees except the State would re-establish involuntary servitude: in other words, slavery. And to abolish slavery, even revolution would be justifi- able. By reason of the large numbers of workmen, any action which they might take for the purpose of evading award, would practically be a public act and render them liable under such a law. The employer on the other hand, could readily close down his plant by assigning any reason, and then re-open anew under any name or he might close down and "re-organize" his labor force. Either method would help him evade such a law. On the other hand, if the award was enforcible against the will of the employer, it would practically be confiscation. Then again there are other methods by which employers can evade an award, one of which was resorted to several years ago. There a court of arbitration decided in favor of the employes. The employ- er closed his plant and began ordering goods in his line from England. Whether such an employer could, at some future time, re-open his business and proceed to manufacture with other workmen upon the ground that they are not the same parties, and thus evade the award. I am not quite certain, but I have shown that there are sufficient means by which employers can evade an award. The wage earners are earnestly striving to obtain a living wage, which, when extended in the most economical manner, shall be sufficient to maintain an average sized family in a manner consistent with whatever the contemporary local civilization recognizes as in-666 M. H. S. 3. [distenable?] to physical and mental health, or as required by the ra- tional self-respect of human beings: That living wage changes con- tinually for what constitutes a living wage to-day may be entirely insufficient a decade hence. It may not be amiss to say that one of the chief advocates of the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, who was largely in- strumental in securing its enactment in that country is a Mr. Lusk who was in the United States in 1900, and left no way untried to land the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand, urging its adoption by the people of his country. At that time I protested against such a law being applied to our country, and stated that it may seem to act fairly well during fair times, but the law had not been put to a test through periods of industrial depression. The same Mr. Lusk after having spent several years in New Zealand since 1900, came to the United States a few years ago, and has since publicly admitted that the compulsory arbitration law of New Zealand was not a success. As a matter of fact, it is an ef- fort to pursue an unnatural course to meet a natural situation and condition. It would be the most unwise course for labor to [??????] to advocate compulsory arbitration as a means of preventing or ad- justing labor disputes. Labor wants to maintain industrial [leader??], but it must be with honor and justice, and must not conflict with nat- ural human rights. Labor must organize and assess power and wield that power lever intelligently and discreetly. We want conciliation, and if necessary arbitration, but arbitration voluntarily entered into, and its terms and awards voluntarily adhered to, but compulsory ar- bitration, never.667 M. H. S. 4. At the annual meeting of the Civic Federation held in New York, December 17, 1907, when the subject "Is Compulsory Arbitration Practicable" was under discussion, Mr. Lusk was one of the speakers, and it was then that he admitted that the Compulsory Arbitration Law of New Zealand was a failure. Summary of his address was published in the National Civic Federation Review of February 1908. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*668*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] X. April 8, 1911. Miss E. G. Morris, 3 Claremont Avenue, Mount Vernon, New York. My dear Miss Morris: Your favor of the fifth, addressed to President Gompers, is at hand, in which you enclose letter written in French, from Louis Plante, of Thetford Mines addressed to Mr. Mitchell. Can you tell me in what state Thetford Mines is located, or is it over the border in Canada? Upon receipt of this information Mr. Gompers will be in a position to write to Mr. Plante fully. With kind regards, I am, Very truly yours, R Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*669*] [*COPED. APR 10 1911*] April 10, 1911. Mr. Charles H. Eddy, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 1031 Vassar Avenue, South Bend, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of April 3rd, I beg to say that President Huber of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners advises me that under the laws of his organization he could not require his local at Mishawaka to become affiliated with your Central Labor Union at South Bend. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*670*] [*COPIED. Apr 10 1911*] Z April 10, 1911. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant is received and contents noted. I am exceedingly gratified to know that your local union at Erie, Pennsylvania, has at last become affiliated with the Central Labor Union of that city, and I want to thank you for your co-operation and assistance in this matter. I have read with interest the letter which you wrote to your Erie local, a copy of which you enclose to me. With kind regards, and best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*671*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Z April 10,1911. Mr. Theodore Eichhorn, Secretary Central Labor Union, 234 West 23rd St., Erie, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: Some little time ago, as you recall, you wrote to me in regard to the local union of carpenters at Erie not being represented in the Central Body. I beg to say that I took the matter up with Secretary Duffy of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners. He now writes me under date of April 5th that arrangements have been made whereby his Erie local will again become represented in your Central Labor Union. With best wishes, I am. Fraternally yours, Sam'l. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*672*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Z April 10,1911. Mr. James O'Connell, President, International Association of Machinists, 407 McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter received from Organizer J. C. Merrill of Moncton, New Brunswick, he says: "If it is allowed to have two volunteer organizers in one locality, I think it would be in the interests of our work to have a commission issued to Charles W. Bleckney - sort of a "roving" commission. Mr. Bleckney is a machinist, President of District Lodge No. 62, covering the Government R.R. system in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, P. E. Island and part of Quebec. So, you see, he has great opportunities for organizing work, frequently traveling over the line. I am satisfied too, that he is a true union man." If the suggestion made by Mr. Merrill meets with your approval I shall be glad to issue a commission to Mr. Charles W. Bleckley as volunteer organizer for the Dominion of Canada. Please let me have a reply to this at your earliest convenience and oblige Fraternally yours, Sam'l. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*673*] Z. April 10, 1911. In replying please refer to Resolution 135. [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: On January 4th I wrote to you and to Secretary Fischer of the Bakers' International Union, as follows: "In continuation of our correspondence in regard to arranging a conference between the representatives of your International Brotherhood and the Baker & Confectionery Workers International Union, as per Resolution #136 of the St. Louis Convention, you are hereby formally invited to have the representatives of your organization meet with the representatives of the Baker and Confectionery Workers at ten o'clock on Friday morning, April 7th at the headquarters of the A. F. of L. in Chicago, Rooms 501-3, 277 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. As a result of this conference I most certainly hope that all questions at issue between your respective organizations will be amicably adjusted." At the same time I also wrote to Organizer Fitzpatrick notifying him of the conference and requesting him to make arrangements in conformity therewith. On January 6th Secretary Fischer advised me that the representatives of his International Union would be present at the time and place set for the conference. The matter then passed out of my mind as having been arranged and that there would be no necessity for further attention on my part until the report of the conference was made to me.Mr. Daniel J. Tobin - 2. Under date of April 7th Organizer Fitzpatrick writes me as follows: "about January 4, 1911, you wrote me in regard to a meeting which was to be held in the Headquarters of the C. F. of L. on Friday morning, April 7th, between the Int. Bakery Workers and the Int. Teamsters' Union. You requested me to see that the representatives of the organizations named would be accommodated at headquarters. This morning about 10 o'clock three representatives of the Bakery Workers appeared, but there was no one present to represent the Teamsters. I called up the Teamsters' local office, and they knew nothing of the conference, then I had them call up the headquarters at Indianapolis, Ind., by 'phone, with the result that Daniel Tobin said he understood that a meeting was to be held some time about the first of April but that no date was agreed upon." I regret very much that the representatives of your Brotherhood were not present to participate in the conference as arranged. As you recall, you wrote me on December 12th, 1910, in reply to my request as to when it would be most convenient for you to take part in the conference. You stated that it would be impossible for you to give any attention to the matter on or before January 15th; that if I would notify you prior to that date you would make arrangements to have the representatives of your Brotherhood meet with the representatives of the Bakers' Int'l Union. I wish you would please let me have a word from you in regard to the above at your earliest convenience and oblige Yours fraternally, President, American Federation of Labor.[*675*] April 10, 1911 Z If replying please refer to Resolution No. 136. Mr. John J. Fitzpatrick, Organizer, [*Copied Apr 10 1911*] Room 501-275 La Salle st., Chicago, Illinois. Dar Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of April 7th in regard to Resolution No. 136 of the St. Louis Convention and arrangements mde for a conference in your office on April 7th between the representatives of the Bakers and Teamsters, I beg to enclose to you herein duplicate copy of a letter which I have today written to Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which is self-explanatory. with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*676*] Z April 10, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Mr. James Hawthorne, Organizer, 771 River Street, Troy, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to your recent letter in which you make complaint against President D. D'Alessandro of the International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers' Union, I beg to say that I send a copy of your letter to Mr. D'Alessandro, and in reply he says: "In reply to yours of April 3rd, which refers to Organizer James Hawthorne, of Troy, New York, will say that this man has never done any work for this organization since he became district organizer. Now, after we have organized a good local in that city, he comes up and wants the commission without rendering any assistance whatever. Mr. Hawthorne wrote to this General Office for the commission for that new local but this office paid no heed to him because he has done absolutely no work. I cannot say any more along this line as I met Mr. Hawthorne but once and that was outside the door of the hall after I had delivered the charter to the local in question. If he intended to do any work along this line why did he not previously organize this local? There was a fine chance for him in that city for I went there only two nights and organized over two hundred (200) men." In view of the statement made by President D'Alessandro as above quoted the incident may be considered as closed. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers American Federation of Labor. April 10, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Mr. J. M. D. Lasater, Organizer, Thurber, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is received and contents noted. We are glad to know that Federal Labor Union #11449 has taken prompt action in compliance with my decision as regards the ineligibility of certain parties to hold membership in that organization. I note what you say as regards the two electricians who are employed at the Electric Light Plant and the Brick Yard, and hold membership in Federal Labor Union #11449. If there is no local union of electricians in Thurber in which they could hold membership then they should retain membership in the Federal Labor Union and certainly are not eligible to membership in Fireman's Union. In reply to the question in the concluding paragraph of your letter, I would say that there is no clothes cleaners' organization affiliated to the A. F. of L. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.April 10, 1911 [* COPIED APR 10 1911*] Mr. H. L. McKinley, Organizer, 171 Franklin Street, Portland, Maine. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that you have my full permission to have republished in any paper you may desire the warning of the American Federation of Labor to business men as regards unauthorized solicitations for publication of advertisements as published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I should be glad to have you do so so as to better guard the good name of organized labor and protect the interests of friendly business men. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.LF April 10, 1911 [* COPIED APR 10 1911*] No. 38 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR COLLEAGUES: Mr. John Moffitt, President of the United Hatters of North America just called me up over the telephone and informed me that the Federal Court of Appeals has reversed the decision of the Lower Court in the decision and award against the members of the United Hatters of North America, in the sum of $222,000. It is the suit brought by Loewe and Company, hatters of Danbury, Conn. I am also in receipt of a telegram from the counsel in the case confirming Mr. Moffitt's telephone message. The Court in reversing the decision has ordered a new trial. The members of the Executive Council will no doubt read this report in the newspapers, but this for official information, as well as congratulations. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*680*] April 10, 1911. [* COPIED APR 10 1911*] Mr Earl Foster, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma. Dear Sir: Your favor of April 6th received and contents noted. You say that you will shortly take part in a debate on the question of the minimum wage and request information to be used in the preparation of your argument. In reply let me say that in the April, 1898, issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, our official monthly publication, there is published an argument on this subject which the undersigned had with Mr. Edward Atkinson. It is entitled "A Minimum Living Wage". I enclose herein a typewritten copy. You will of course bear in mind that there are many obstacles in the way of establishing a national minimum scale of wages. Consideration must be given to the fact of different climatic conditions, of industries which are local in character, the characteristics of the people, their industrial development as well as educational advantages, and otherwise; the higher concept of the standard of living, and that though we have not accomplished that which we may desire in view of the many difficulties in the way, we are doing and have done much to establish a higher standard of life which means a higher minimum scale and better[*681*] [*COPIED. APR [?]*] Mr. Earl Fester----2. living wage, and better conditions generally. I would also suggest that you secure a copy of Bulletin No. 77 of the Bureau of Labor, July, 1908, which deals with the question of wages and hours of labor from 1890 to 1907. Trusting that the information given may be of service, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. P.S. By a peculiar coincidence Mr. Clark, one of the debaters for the University of Missouri, called at my office today for information in the debate in the negative of the proposition. I took occasion to say that he had a very bad side to defend.[*682*] Z April 10, 1911. Mr. Henry P. Hilfers, Secretary, Essex Trades Council, 68 South Orange Ave., Newark, N. J. [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Under date of April 7th President Tobin of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters makes complaint that your Central Body has refused to recognize the delegates from his Local No. 475. The reason given for this action on the part of your Central Body as given by President Tobin is as follows: "As I get the information, the cause of the trouble was that the brass polishers had some trouble with the Star Spring Bed Company. This local union of ours had a contract signed there and they wanted our men to go out in sympathy with them and the men refused, and because of their refusal to break their contract and go on strike in sympathy with the brass polishers, they were unseated in the Central Body." He then requests that I should take the matter up with your Central Body in conformity with the laws of the American Federation of Labor, to the end that the delegates from his local #475 should again be seated. Your attention is called to Section 5 of Article 11 of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. which reads as follows: "No Central Labor Union, or other central body of delegates, shall have the authority or power to order any organization, affiliated with such Central Labor Union, or other central labor body, on strike, where such organization has a national organization, until the proper authorities of such National or International [*683*] Mr. Henry Hilfers---2. organization have been consulted and agreed to such action." Your attention is further called to Section 8 of Article 11, which reads: "No Central Body or Department affiliated with the American Federation of Labor shall reject credentials presented by a duly elected or appointed delegation of a Local Union chartered by a National or an International Union having affiliation with the American Federation of Labor; provided, that upon written charges signed by at least three delegates, any delegate of an affiliated Union may, upon conviction after a fair trial, be expelled or suspended. Action of the Central Body under this section shall be subject to appeal to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, and no delegation representing Local Unions affiliated, as herein described, shall be suspended or expelled until like action is taken." Therefore, in view of the Constution of the A. F. of L. governing such matters as above indicated, I sincerely hope your Central Body will take prompt measures to act in conformity therewith. You are also requested to advise me in regard to the foregoing at your earliest convenience. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*684*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Z April 10, 1911. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, etc., 222 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 7th instant, in which you make complaint against the Central Labor Union of Newark, N. J., having unseated the delegates from your local union #475, I beg to say that I have just written to the Secretary of that Body and for your information I enclose a copy of that letter herein. With kind regards and best wishes, I am. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*685*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Z April 10, 1911. Mr. Paul U. Kellogg, The Survey, 105 East 22nd St., New York, N.Y. My dear Mr. Kellogg: Your favor of the 7th instant is received and contents noted. You say that Mr. W. D. Lane, representing the Survey, is making inquiries as to labor conditions in the express service of New York so that in case of any further strikes the Survey will have first-hand information as to the underlying cause. You further say that the Survey anticipates following up the cases of discharge which are alleged against the Adams Express Company of union men without sufficient cause. You then request that as the Survey is not and its work is not so well known to the representative men of the labor movement that you will appreciate a letter which Mr. Lane could use in his effort to secure first-hand information for your magazine. You will please find enclosed a letter of introduction which I trust will be of assistance to Mr. Lane in his work in behalf of your magazine. Very sincerely yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*686*] [*COPIED. APR 10 1911*] Z April 10, 1911. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The bearer, Mr. W. D. Lane, representative of the "Survey", is investigating labor conditions with a view of securing for the "Survey" the most concrete and exact data, particularly as applies to labor conditions in the express service of New York so that in case of further strikes the "Survey" will have first-hand information as to the underlying causes of such strikes. Any information of assistance which can be given to Mr. Lane will be appreciated by Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*687*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Z April 10, 1911 Hon. William Sulzer, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 4th instant is received and I want to thank you for your courtesy in having my name continued on your list to receive the Record for the 62nd Congress. I assure you that it is greatly appreciated. I also desire to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 6th instant in which you enclosed copies of your bill for the creation of a Department of Labor with secretary having a seat in the Cabinet. You may rest assured that I will do everything that I can to be helpful in trying to have this bill enacted into law by the present session of Congress. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Sincerely and fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*688*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mrs. Farley Morton, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 119 Lee Avenue, Waycross, Ga. Dear Madam: Your favor of the 7th instant to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state the Trades and Labor Assembly recommends the appointment of T. C. Sauls and M. O. Walace as volunteer organizers for Waycross and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Sauls and Walace 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. Our records show that we have on our list as volunteer organizers for Waycross and vicinity J. C. Pumphrey and C. G. Lewis. Kindly advise us if the Trades and Labor Assembly desires to continue them as volunteer organizers. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*689*] Z April 10, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. James H. Hatch, President, Upholsterers' International Union of N. A., 159 West 57th St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant has been received, in which you protest against Badge Makers' Union #11555 of Hudson County, N. J., accepting members decorators from the city of Brooklyn, N. Y. In reply I beg to say I have sent a copy of your letter to Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, 25 Third Avenue, New York City, as the official representative of the A. F. of L., requesting him to look into the matter and advise me. Upon receipt of a reply from him I will write you further. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*690*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Z April 10, 1911. Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to correspondence we have recently had in regard to Badge Makers' Union #11555 of Hudson County, New Jersey, I beg to enclose to you herein a copy of a letter which I have just received from President Hatch of the Upholsterers' International Union. As you will note, he protests against the members of Local #11555 having accepted to membership decorators in the city of Brooklyn. As you have been representing the A. F. of L. in the correspondence with this local as regards the matter of the union label it seemed to me that it would be better that the complaint of President Hatch should also be taken up with you. I have written Mr. Hatch that the matter has been referred to you as the official representative of the A. F. of L. I trust you will give it your attention as soon as you can conveniently do so consistent with your other work, and that you will write me in regard to the matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*691*] COPIED. APR [?] 1911 COPY. [*C.*] UPHOLSTERERS' INTERNATIONAL UNION OF N. A. New York, April 5, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, of American Federation of Labor, Dear Sir and Brother: It has come to my notice that a Union of Badge Makers known as #11555, Hudson County, New Jersey, has accepted as members decorators from the City of Brooklyn, N.Y. The members of the Upholsterers Int'l Union have done flag bunting and cheese cloth decorating ever since that material has been used for that purpose. This material is used for decorating ball rooms, automobile shows, pure food shows and in fact, shows of all kinds that are usually held in halls by Manufacturer's Ass'n. The walls are decorated in different colors bunting or cheese cloth and so are the booths erected for the purpose of display. All of this goods is tacked on and there are a few men in the business who do this work exclusively and we have them as members of our organization, but the majority of this work is usually done by upholsterers as we do not favor the plan of any greater sub-division of our trade by permitting a new lot of men to be broken in to do this class of work. It appears that one of two men from Brooklyn who have joined this New Jersey Local are employers and very naturally work any hours they see fit and in competition with other men who are endeavoring to earn a livelihood as journeymen and at the same time [hold] uphold our standard rate of wages. The Brooklyn Central[*692*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] -2- Labor Union which is somewhat interested in this controversy and I would kindly request that they be notified that all journeymen qualified to do the work in question, namely, flag and bunting decorating be requested to file their application for membership in Local Union 44 of the Upholsterers Int'l Union as they have jurisdiction over this work. Awaiting a reply, I am, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Jas. H. Hatch. Gen'l Pres. U.I.U.[*693*] M April 10, 1911. Mr. Will Herman, Secretary, Tin, Steel, Iron and Granite Ware Workers No. 10943, 2034 DeWey Avenue, Granite City, Illinois. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a night telegram from you in which say: "Good Friday Lodge No. 8 of A. A. of I. S. T. W. surrendered their charter to National Lodge: severed all connection and are now disbanded. We have called a special meeting for next Saturday to initiate them. Wire instructions. Action of Joint Committee. Secretary 10943." I am very much astonished that Good Friday Lodge No. 8 should have acted in the manner you describe, particularly in view of the fact that I sent you letter quoting the following protest from a letter addressed to me by President McArdle of the Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers. The quotation of that letter is as follows: "My position in this matter is that we had now power to surrender jurisdiction over these men, who have been with us a number of years, and that our convention would have to act if such action was to be taken. Until such time as our convention passes on the matter, I will regard it as my duty to protest against their withdrawal and affiliations with any other organization." You can readily understand that the American Federation[*694*] W. H. 2. of Labor will not consent to having workers belonging to an affiliated International Union seceding from that organization and becoming part of a local union affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. In President McArdle's letter he calls attention to the fact that if the Convention of the Amalgamated Association, which takes place on May 2, passed upon the matter, there is little doubt that any serious objection would be entertained to Local No. 8 being released from membership to the Amalgamated Association and becoming part of the Tin, Steel, Iron and Granite Ware Workers No. 10943. He further calls attention to the fact that the members of No. 8 are indebted to the Amalgamated Association for as [payments] levied during during the recent strike; that if this indebtedness is not liquidated it would operate against favorable consideration by the Convention of the proposition to withdraw. You are requested to advise Lodge No. 8 of the Amalgamated Association to again take up its charter and existence and act in accordance with the suggestion of President McArdle, to maintain the local lodge and be represented by a delegate at the convention, or if the means are not at hand to send a representative, make a formal written case and petition and forward to President McArdle for presentation to the Convention for its action thereon. Secondly, As Secretary of Local No. 10943 you are herby advised that those members of Good Friday Lodge No. 8 be not admitted as members of Local No. 10943 either on Saturday or any other time until the entire subject matter is adjusted in accordance with trade union law and as outlined in the communication. I am confident[*695*] W. H. 3. that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor will not permit or consent to any other course being pursued by Local No. 10943. Assuring you of my desire to be helpful in every way and urging upon you and Lodge No. 8 to act in conformity with the law and practice of the bona fide labor movement, and thus avoid any grievous wrong being committed, and hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*696*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] M April 10, 1911. Mr. P. J. McArdle, President, Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, House Bldg., Pittsburg, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will find a letter which I [X] have just written to Secretary Will Herman of Tin, Steel, Iron and Granite Ware Workers No. 10943 of Granite City, Illinois. The letter quotes a telegram which I received and my reply, and hence the case is before you in its entirely. I do hope that the course indicated will be pursued, and that you will do your level best in order that the interests of all may be best safe-guarded. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours President American Federation of Labor.[*697*] COPIED. APR 12 1911 X. April 8, 1911. Mr. James Duncan, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Hancock Bldg., Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: A few days ago I received a letter from Hans Fehlinger, of Munich, Germany. You have no doubt read of his intelligent and comprehensive letters which he has written and which I have been pleased to publish regularly in the American Federationist. I think he is one of the most pronounced trade unionists in Germany and one of the best informed upon the trade union movement of Germany, yes, of Europe and of America. His articles in the German labor press, as well as in the American Federationist, show this. His correspondence with me discloses that even to a greater degree. Of course, you can understand that it is impractical to publish all that a man may write. The purpose of my recounting these facts is that in his letter he makes inquiry as to whether he can be of service to you on the occasion of your visit to Budapest or any other part of the European continent. He speaks English well but writes it better. On the occasion of my visit to Europe two years ago, I met him by appointment in London. We were together for a few days. He then went to Germany and when I reached Berlin I again met him in the (Generalkommission der Gewerkschaften Deutschlands) Executive[*698*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. James Duncan -2- Council of the German Trade Union Federation. He was appointed to travel with me for several weeks through Germany and Austria. He then travelled to a few other points with me at my request, for which he would only accept partial reimbursement and expenses. I imagine that he would go to Budapest as a student and writer, and it might be well to have his assistance even if already there. If you meet him he may not impress you very strongly by reason of the fact that of course he thinks in German while talking in English, but as I say, he is a very thoughtful man and inasmuch as he has written me in connection with it, I could not do less but communicate with you on the subject. If you care to, you can write here or write to him direct at the following address: Herr Hans Fehlinger, Hinterbruhl 2, Muenchen 41, Munich, Germany. I do hope that you will be able to let me know soon as to the time of your leaving Uncle Sam's domain. I trust too that you and Mrs. Duncan are well and that Stanley has entirely recovered from his recent awful experience, and will make the progress I know you desire for him and for which I sincerely hope. I regret to say that Mrs. Gompers is still confined to her bed and suffering greatly. This is now nearly eight weeks that she has been ill in an awfully painful condition. Sincerely and fraternally yours Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*698*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. James Duncan -2- Council of the German Trade Union Federation. He was appointed to travel with me for several weeks through Germany and Austria. He then travelled to a few other points with me at my request, for which he would only accept partial reimbursement and expenses. I imagine that he would go to Budapest as a student and writer, and it might be well to have his assistance even if already there. If you meet him he may not impress you very strongly by reason of the fact that of course he thinks in German while talking in English, but as I say, he is a very thoughtful man and inasmuch as he has written me in connection with it, I could not do less but communicate with you on the subject. If you care to, you can write here or write to him direct at the following address: Herr Hans Fehlinger, Hinterbruhl 2, Muenchen 41, Munich, Germany. I do hope that you will be able to let me know soon as to the time of your leaving Uncle Sam's domain. I trust too that you and Mrs. Duncan are well and that Stanley has entirely recovered from his recent awful experience, and will make the progress I know you desire for him and for which I sincerely hope. I regret to say that Mrs. Gompers is still confined to her bed and suffering greatly. This is now nearly eight weeks that she has been ill in an awfully painful condition. Sincerely and fraternally yours Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*699*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 8, 1911. NO. 39. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES : Under date of March 28, I submitted to the Executive Council Document #30, of which the enclosed is a part. The enclosed is a copy of the reply received from R. Flores Megon, of the Junta of the Mexican Liberal Party. You will please take these documents in connection with original document #30, and return your vote whether the protest requested shall be made in the name of the American Federation of Labor. Please return your vote at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President. American Federation of Labor.[* 700*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] COPY. Office of the "Junta" of the Mexican Liberal Party. 519/2 E. 4th St., Los Angeles, Cal. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, 801 G St., N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- For the courtesy of your prompt reply to my appeal on behalf of the Mexican Liberal Party I beg to thank you most sincerely. We felt that we should not appeal in vain. Certainly you, your organization and the American public, should be told exactly why Mexico is in revolt. It is because, as stated in our appeal, the Mexicans have been driven by the millions from their lands. Through corrupt political chicanery, infinitely more potent than, and fully as cruel as, any conquest by the sword, the money power has seized those lands. Thus, having rendered the people helpless, it has instituted a system of chattel and wage slavery probably unparall[el]ed for its atrocity. Against this we are in revolt. You say that if we are fighting merely to supplant the present regime by another, "without fundamentally changing the conditions which shall make for the improvement of the workers' opportunities, and a greater regard for their rights and their interests, then the American labor movement can look upon such a change with entire indifference." Indeed, sir, you have expressed most concisely the exact position of our party. From the first we have understood clearly that this is an economic war: one that goes directly to the heart of the labor question and proposes to give the worker the full product of his toil. We have understood from the very first that the labor[*701*] -2- movement of the world, and should, remain entirely indifferent to any change of presidents or cabinets; that the substance and not the mere shadow is wanted. Accordingly our party adopted at the outset '"Land and Liberty" as its motto, and our brief declaration of principles states that we are struggling for "possession of the land, reduction of the hours of labor and increased wages." If our people can win for themselves industrial liberty they will work out their own salvation. But if American labor stands idly by, and permits them to be crushed by militarism, at the behest of the money power, they will drag with them, to the lowest depths, their immediate neighbors - the American workingmen. Our cause is your cause, and you cannot be unaware that the brutality with which most righteous strikes have been suppressed in Mexico has encouraged incalculably the strike-breakers in the United States. In "Barbarous Mexico" John Kenneth Turner ends his chapter entitled "Four Mexican Strikes" with the statement that the American capitalists "are looking to Mexican cheap labor to help them break the back of organized labor in the United States, both by transferring part of their capital to mexico and by importing a part of Mexico's laborers into this country." These words are literally true. All along the Southern Border the pitiful wages Mexican exiles are forced to accept are lowering the standard of American labor. Again we say-"Our cause is yours." We ourselves cannot doubt for one moment that American troops have been despatched to our borders by the tens of thousands solely because monopoly has felt itself in danger. We could cite[*702*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] -3- instances by the score in which they have proved invaluable allies to the corrupt despotism against which we are in revolt. Apart from humanitarian considerations it is to the direct personal interest of organized labor to stand shoulder to shoulder with us in this struggle, aiding us not merely with its sympathy but, as monopolists support monopolists, with substantial aid. The money power is solidly arrayed against us, and, although we are doing wonders with pitifully slender resources, without the sinews of war we cannot bring this essentially labor struggle to a successful issue. Again thanking you for your courteous and prompt reply, we reiterate our conviction that ours is a struggle in which you cannot, and will not wish to, stand neutral. Accordingly we look with confidence to early action by your council, at your sympathetic initiative. Yours most sincerely, (Signed} R. Flores Magon[*703*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] COPY. DAY LETTER. Washington, D. C., April 10, 1911. Hon. John K. Beach, 865 Chapel St., New Haven, Conn. Accept heartfelt congratulations upon court's decision on appeal Hatters' case reversing judgment of lower court. The decision will have a far reaching and steadying influence in the cause of justice and right. The brief and argument in appeal case were masterful. Samuel Gompers. (Charge A. F. of LI) [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Washington, D. C., April 10, 1911. Hon. Alton B. Parker, 37 Wall St., New York, N. Y. Accept heartfelt congratulations upon court's decision on appeal Hatters' case reversing judgment of lower court. The decision will have a far reaching and steadying influence in the cause of justice and right. The brief and argument in appeal case were masterful. Samuel Gompers. (Charge A. F. of LI) [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Washington, D. C., April 10, 191. Hon. Frank L. Mulholland, The Nicholas, Toledo, Ohio. Accept hearties congratulations upon court's decision on appeal Hatters' case reversing judgment of lower court. The appeal will have a far reaching and steadying influence in the cause of justice and right. The brief and argument in appeal case were masterful. Samuel Gompers.[*704*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] LF April 10, 1911 When replying kindly refer to Res. #49. Mr. A. E. Kellington, Secretary Local #1, Flour and Cereal Mill Employes, 4210 Hiawatha Ave., Minneapolis, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: By direction of the St. Louis Convention of the American Federation of Labor, and as per Resolution #49 of that convention, the condition of the Flour and Cereal Mill Employes' International Union has been carefully investigated. It has been found that there are a number of local unions represented in that International Union, with a total membership of 353. The Executive Council, in conformity with the action of the St. Louis Convention, has therefore directed the withdrawal of the charter of the International Union. Secretary Kellington has this day been officially notified of this action and requested to return the charter to headquarters. The Executive Council further authorized that charters should be issued direct by the A. F. of L. to the local unions of the Flour and Cereal Mill Employes free of cost. This will hold good thirty days from the date of this letter, or until May 10, 1911. Blank form of application for charter is enclosed herein. I trust your organization will take immediate steps to have it properly filled in and return to headquarters, when charter will be immediately[*705*] Mr. A. E. Kellington--2 issued and forwarded to you. In a rough estimate, there must be at least 100,000 flour and cereal mill workers throughout the United States. The American Federation of Labor will do everything within its power to organize these workers in direct affiliation to the A. F. of L. As soon as a sufficient number of locals is organized to warrant the re-organization of the International Union, that course will be promptly followed by the American Federation of Labor. Inasmuch as the International Union has, for any practical purpose ceased to exist and its charter has been withdrawn, it is suggested that your union should not transmit any per capita tax further to Secretary A. E. Kellington. Your attention is called to the fact that the local unions will become entitled to the strike or lock-out benefits from the defense fund as provided by Article XIII of the Constitution of the A. F. of L., copy of which you will also find enclosed. Asking you to let me hear from you in regard to the above at your earliest convenience, urging that action be taken and the charter application be filled in and mailed to the undersigned within the prescribed limit of thirty days, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Attest: Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor. P. S. The A. F. of L. Union Label will be available through the local unions for union products.[*706*] April 10, 1911 The attached letter also went to the following local Unions of Flour and Cereal Mill Employes: Local #3, W. H. Roberts, 1442 Herkimer St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Local #11, H. R. Baldwin, Box 192, Youngstown, Ohio Local #21, A. T. Rainey, Faribault, Minn. Local #35, Carl Woolcott, Harrisburg, Ill. Local #39, M. Amsrud, 180 Green Bay St., La Crosse, Wis. Local #44, Albert Sladky, DePere, Wis. Local #49, J. Kelly, Hastings, Minn. Local #51, Chas. Haney, Petersburg, Ind. Local #58, E. Miller, DuQuoin, Ill. Local #59, C. T. Johnson, Chetek, Wis. Local #60, Ben Amann, O'Fallon, Ill. Local #61, W. C. Eaton, Pinckneyville, Ill. Local #62, M. A. Norton, Fort Scott, Kans. Local #69, W. H. Lill, 313 So. 2nd St. West, Cedar Rapids, Iowa Local #70, John Berthoux, Trenton, Ill. Local #71, John Schiedinger, 1802 7th Ave., S.E. St.Cloud, Minn. Local #72, Chas. Gross, 1917 Monterey St., San Antonio, Texas. Local #77, G. F. Hiltz, Anthony, Kansas Local #80, J. Ramirez, 202 Labor Temple, Los Angeles, Cal. Local #81, Chas. Thurgood, Vincennes, Ind. 417 S 10th St. Local #84, W. J. Rodger, Benton, Ill. Local #88, Everett Wells, Harper, Kas. Local #93, J. Champion, New Athens, Ill. Local #94, R. Fairbrother, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. Local #96, C. G. Plumlee, Mulkeytown, Ill. Local #100, F. C. Etiling, Freeburg, Ill. Local #103, W. H. Eifler, Booneville, Ind. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*]707 COPIED APR 12, 1911 LF Washington, D.C. Apr. 12 John R. Akpine 401 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Just received the following telegram from Secretary Davies, International Association: "Your communication of April eighth received and contents very carefully noted and in reply am pleased to state that our international association has appointed a special committee to meet with the officers of the American Federation of Labor and the United Association for the purpose of drawing up a working agreement and providing for harmonious relations between our organization and the United Association but it must be thoroughly understood that this committee has no power or authority to consider or enter into amalgamation. Should the above be agreeable we can guarantee our committee will be on the ground April seventeenth, nineteen eleven. Wire answer." What say you to suggestion. Wire answer. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. (Charge to A.F. of L)[*708*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. Mr. Victor H. Melton, Murphrysboro, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th instant is received and contents noted. I am somewhat in doubt as to whether you wish to form a Women's International Union label League, or a Union Label Department, affiliated with the A. F. of L. If the former, you should address Mrs. Anna B. Fields, Harting Block, Elwood, Indiana. If you wish to form a Union Label Department, kindly address Mr. Thomas F. Tracy, Secretary, Union Label Trades Department, A. F. of L., 708 Ouray Building, Washington, D. C. Trusting this will give you the desired information, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*709*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Z April 11, 1911. Mr. J. F. Bedford, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, P. O. Box 1572, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Under date of April 5th I am in receipt of a letter from organizer M. R. Tustison in which he says: "Last fall the Int'l Association Steam, Hot Water and Power Pipe Fitters No. 73, applied for membership to the Denver Trades and Labor Assembly and through the efforts of the Steam Fitters and Plumbers connected with the Building Trades Council were not allowed a seat in the Assembly, the above organization claiming it to be a dual organization. They want to come in again and want my support. Would you kindly give me your opinion whether No, 73 is or is not entitled to delegates to Trades Assembly? Work here is picking up a little and the outlook encouraging." I beg to enclose to you herein a copy of a letter which I have just addressed to him and would be obliged to you if you would also convey to me the information requested therein. Counting upon the co-operation of the Denver Trades and Labor Assembly, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*710*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Z April 11, 1911. Mr. N. R . Tustison, Organizer, 1225 W. 9th Street, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant to hand and contents noted. You say that last fall Local Union No.73 of the Int'l Association of Steam and Hot Water Fitters applied for admission to the Denver Trades and Labor Assembly and that through the efforts of the Building Trades Council as well as of the Plumbers and Steam Fitters Local representation was not allowed on the ground that the Steam Fitters' local was dual in character. Before replying definitely upon this subject I should like to inquire from you the exact date of the organization of the Plumbers and Stea Fitters' Local and the date of the organization of the Steam and Hot Water Fitters Local of Denver. The entire matter is a delicate subject which we are endeavoring to have adjusted. While the incident you mention is local in character, yet it is broader for it involves the question of these organization generally. It is my earnest desire to be helpful in reaching the proper conclusion, and I therefore request you to give me fuller information thereon.[*711*] Mr. N. R. Tustison--2. I am also writing to Secretary Bedford of the Denver Trades and Labor Assembly, sending him a copy of this letter. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*712*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. Mr. James McGraw, 319 Market Street, South Williamsport, Pa. Dear Sir: In continuation of my letter to you of March 29th, I beg to say that I am now in receipt of a letter from Mr. John E. Bray, Secretary, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' International Alliance, in which he states that a careful reference to his files does not reveal any member by the name of Ellwood McGraw. I am therefore unable to aid you in this matter. Regretting my inability to supply the information you desire, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*713*] X. April 11, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. Fred Huber, Secretary, United Neckwear Cutters' Union, #6939, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April the fifth has been duly received, in which you enclose union label contracts between your organization and several Neckwear Manufacturers. The contracts with Harris and Bernstein, and with Friedman Brothers and Son Neckwear Company, Williams Brothers, and Kunstler and Heyman, are all made out for forty-nine hours per week and they have been signed and two copies of such are returned to you under separate cover. The contract for Jacobsen and Kumesh is made out for eight and one-half hours per day, which is fifty-one hours per week. I wish you would please advise me if it was intended that this letter contract should be forty-nine hours per week. If so it should be written in the face of the contract. I return them to you herewith so the proper changes can be made. In one of the contracts for Friedman Brothers and Son Neckwear Company, you failed to fill in the date. Do not fail to do this before placing it in the records of your organization. In one of the contracts for Kunstler and Hayman, you failed to fill in the forty-nine hours per week. This copy is returned to you also. Do not fail to fill it in before it is placed with [*714*] Mr. Fred Huber -2- your records. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*715*] The remaining three pages of this letter are in neostyle form, [??] regularly in stock, and of which a letter press copy can not be made. II April 11, 1911 [* COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. Charles Ruhler, Baldwin, Kansas, Dear Sir: Your favor of the 6th instant is at hand, in which you state that you are studying the labor union question, and desire some information thereon. 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 study of this question. 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 thirty years of its existence would be the most direct and 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, and official monthly publication, which is now in the eighteenth year of its existence. We would not be able to furnish you with complete sets of either of bound proceedings or the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, but you could [???] less [source?] or consult these at some public library.[*716*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. Mr. Chas. L. Evans, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 1605 Chess Ave., Parsons, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: I want to thank you for your favor of the fourth instant and for the prompt action taken by your Central Labor Union in compliance with my recent letter requesting that a committee be appointed by your Central Body to wait upon the stove dealers in your city and officially and formally advise them of the friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*717*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. Mr. James O'Connell, President, International Association of Machinists. McGill Building, City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the tenth instant is received and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that Organizer C. O. Young must carry out the itinerary assigned to him, when he can return to Portland for a limited period. It has also been arranged that he shall spend some time at Spokane. We will do our best to comply with the wishes of organized labor of Portland, but we have several pressing requests from other cities for the assistance of a special organizer, and there are several places Mr. Young must visit. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*718*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. Mr. B. J. McMahon, Organizer, American Federation of Labor. 980 Allis Street, Milwaukee, Wis. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the sixth instant received and contents noted. In regard to your commission as volunteer organizer for the A. F. of L. it was renewed on April sixth and forwarded to you. I presume that you have received it before this. I note what you have been doing in the matter of organizing the Postal Clerks and I trust that you will be successful in the work. We doubt you have seen through the press reports of what we have been doing here and the letter sent out by Senator LaFollette. In the event that you have not, I enclose a copy of the letter herein. You desire to know whether the Mail Carriers for the rural free delivery routes when organized should make application to the Letter Carriers Association, or to the American Federation of Labor. The application should be made to the former. I am now in correspondence with the Letter Carriers and the Post Office Clerks, by direction of the Executive Council, with the object in view of endeavoring to bring the two bodies together under one head in full affiliation to the American Federation of Labor. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*719*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. Mr. Andrew A. Gallagher, Secretary, San Francisco Labor Council, 316 14th St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Please accept my thanks for your favor of April the third and under separate cover the copies of the bills in the interest of labor before the last California State Legislature. I have not as yet had time to look over them, but hope to do so in the near future. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*720*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. Mr. Thys De Jong, Secretary, Local #126, Journeymen Tailors' Union of America, Box 402, Macon, Georgia. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the fifth instant is received and contents noted. You desire to know on what authority the Building Trades Council can send a delegate to a Central Labor Union. In reply I beg to call your attention to Section 10, Article 11 of the Constitution of the A. F. of L., which reads as follows: "Local Unions of National or International Unions affiliated with the Departments attached to the American Federation of Labor, in any city where a Local Department exists, shall not be eligible to membership in any Local Department unless they are connected with the chartered Central Body, nor shall they be eligible to membership in the Central Body unless they are affiliated with the Local Department." You will thus understand that the local Building Trades Council as such is not entitled to a delegate in a central body. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*721*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #119. Mr. H. F. Ryan, President, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America, 503 Hall Building, Kansas City, Missouri. Dear Sir and Brother: You are herewith formally invited to participate in conference between the representatives of your organization and the representatives of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, to be held in the office of the American Federation of Labor at ten o'clock on Thursday morning, April 20th. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*722*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #119. Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: You are herewith formally invited to participate in conference between the representatives of your organization and the representatives of the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen of America, to be held in the office of the American Federation of Labor at ten o'clock on Thursday morning, April 20th. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*723*] X. April 11, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. C. D. Pierce, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Central Hall, Miami, Fla. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the fifth instant is received and contents noted. I am conveying the information to Mr. A. E. Bogue, Secretary of Local #76, International Union Shipwrights, Joiners, Caulkers, Boat Builders and Ship Cabinet Makers, and enclose you a copy of that letter which is self-explanatory, and which you will please accept as equally addressed to yourself. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*724*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 11, 1911. Mr. A. E. Bogue, Secretary, Local #76, International Union Shipwrights, Joiners, Caulkers, Boat Builders and Ships Cabinet Makers, Box 121, Miami, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: As I stated to you in my letter of March 22, I sent copy of your letter [to] of March 14 to Secretary Pierce of the Miami Central Labor Union, with the request that he make reply to the complaint you made therein. I am now in receipt of a letter from him under date of April 5th in which he says: "By unanimous consent of the nine locals affiliated with this Central Body each local was requested to send in the names of two candidates from which to select a general business agent, each local to have one vote in the election. All the locals, except 76, endorsed P. A. Day who at the time was business agent for 993, the Carpenters. Local 76 sent in the names of L. E. Higgins and A. E. Bogue. The election held April 3 resulted in unanimous vote being cast for P. A. Day, six locals being represented at said election." Therefore in view of the action of the Central Labor Union as set forth in the above I do not deem that the matter is one for any action on the part of the President of the A. F. of L., hence the incident may be considered as closed. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*725*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 1, 1911. Mr. S. F. Bagg, 120 Boylston Street, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of April the fifth, I beg to say that at present I do not anticipate visiting Boston at any time in the next few months. I would suggest that if you are not coming over to Washington that you should write to me about the matters you have in mind. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*726*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. John K. Beach, 865 Chapel St., New Haven, Conn. My dear Sir: Your favor of the 10th instant is at hand and contents noted. Of course you received my telegram of yesterday in reply to your telegraphic notification of the decision of the Court in the Hatters' case. I is needless for me to attempt to say how gratified I am at the decision of the Court. I am particularly anxious to have a copy of the opinion which I note you expect to send to me today. I trust that you will be able to do so. You say I suppose you are expecting also a decision in your own case tomorrow, as I learn that the Supreme Court adjourned until eleven o'clock, and I hope that this may be a good omen. I don't clearly understand this, and thought probably your stenographer may have mistranscribed her notes. I note that you expect to come to Washington sometime in the course if the next few days. I will certainly be glad to have an opportunity of seeing you. [*727*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Hon. J. K. B. 2. Secretary Morrison joins me in reciprocating your kind regards. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*728*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] LF April 11 1911 Mr. J. T. Templeton, Secretary, The Buck's Stove and Range Company St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 6th instant I beg to say that I am today writing a personal letter to our representatives in the several cities which you name, in line with similar letters which I sent out a week or so ago.. With best wishes for success, I am, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*729*] [*COPED. APR 12 1911*] LF April 11, 1911 Mr. H. B. Periam, President The Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Star Building, St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th instant is received and contents noted. I should indeed be glad to accept your invitation to attend the convention of your Brotherhood, which you say will convene in the Labor Temple at Toronto, Canada on Monday, May 8th. I very much feal, however, that in view of my present engagements it will be impossible for me to so arrange affairs as to accept your invitation. If I find later that I can do so, you can rest assured that I will be exceedingly glad to have the opportunity of meeting and greeting the officers and delegates at your convention. In any event, I request that you shall convey to them my fraternal greetings and sincerest good wishes for a successful convention. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*730*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Washington, D. C., April 12, 1911. J. W. Kline, 579 Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Telegram received. Conference definitely settled for April nineteenth. Letter follows. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.731 X. April 12, 1911. When replying, kindly refer to Res. Nos. 22 & 81. Mr. J. W. Kline, President, International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, 570 Monon Building, Chicago, Ill. [*COPIED APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: I have just sent you a telegram as follows: "Telegram received. Conference definitely settled for April nineteenth. Letter follows." As I advised you on April first, I wrote to the executive officers of the several other organizations interested in the conference on April the 19th. They advised me that that date will be agreeable to them and therefore the conference has been promptly called for April 19th at theheadquarters of the American Federation of Labor. I trust your brotherhood will not fail to be duly represented. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*732*] X. April 12,1911 WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTIONS #22-81 [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. William P. Mavell, Secretary, International Carriage and Wagon Workers, 403 South Division Street, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: You are hereby formally invited to a conference to be held at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor at ten o'clock on the morning of April 19th between the representatives of your organization, representatives of the Upholsterers' International Union, representatives of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Secretary Morrison and the undersigned representing the A. F. of L. Sincerely trusting that the questions at issue between the several organizations may be adjusted to the satisfaction of all interested parties, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. ,[*733*] X. April 12, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTIONS #22-81. Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. [*COPIED APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: You are hereby formally invited to a conference to be held at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor at ten o'clock on the morning of April 19th between the representatives of your organization, representatives of the Upholsterers' International Union, representatives of the International Union of Carriage and Wagon Workers, Secretary Morrison and the undersigned representing the A. F. of L. Sincerely trusting that the questions at issue between the several organizations may be adjusted to the satisfaction of all interested parties, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*734*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] X. April 12, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESULTIONS #22-81. Mr. James H. Hatch, President, Upholsterers' International Union of N. A., 159 West 57th Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: You are hereby formally invited to a conference to be held at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor at ten o'clock on the morning of April 19th, between the representatives of your Organization, representatives of the Brotherhood of Decorators, Paperhangers and Painters of America, and representatives of the International Union of Carriage and Wagon Workers, and Secretary Morrison and the undersigned [xxxx] representing the A. F. of L. Sincerely trusting that the questions at issue between the several organizations may be adjusted to the satisfaction of all interested parties, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.735 X. April 12, 1911. Mr. Charles Wagner, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, Box 625, Honolulu, Hawaii. [*COPIED APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of April fifth, I beg to say that our official representative in Philadelphia, Organizer Michelberger, to whom I referred your recent letter, writes me as follows: "In relation to matter referred to me by you appertaining to Mr. Charles Wagner, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, P. O. Box 625, Honolulu, Hawaii, who states he purchased from the Columbia Knitting Hills of Philadelphia, Pa., bill of goods consisting of hosiety for which he paid the sum of $12.00 under date of October 20th, 1910. Mr. Wagner further informs you that to date, March 19, 1911, he received no return for the money paid. The matter has been investigated by me and I find the concern out of business, having been detected in questionable dealing; cases similar to the one mentioned in your correspondence have come to light and so far all claims have been paid, but same have come through the office of Brother John Golden of the United Textile Workers of America. Brother Golden informs me that if you will have the facts in the case submitted to him he will endeavor to have the claim satisfied." Therefore, just as soon as you send the necessary data as above indicated, I will promptly transmit it to Secretary Golden of the United Textile Workers of American his attention. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.736 X. April 12, 1911. Mr. Edwin A. Brown, Hotel Alexandria, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir: Your favor of the eighth instant addressed to me in care of Room 401 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, has just been forwarded to me. Evidently you wereunder the impression when you wrote that I was to be in Chicago. Had I been there or were I going there, I should be glad to have the opportunity of seeing you. Very sincerely yours, President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*737*] X. April 12, 1911. [*COPIED APR 12 1911*] Mr. S. M. Boydston, Vice-President, Oklahoma State Federation of Labor, Wilburton, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: I want to thank you for your favor of the ninth instant and for the prompt action taken in compliance with my recent letter requesting that you wait upon the stove dealers in your city and officially and formally advise them of the friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Co. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*738*] X. April 11, 1911. [*COPIED APR 12 1911*] Mr. Allen L. Benson, c/o Pearson's Magazine, New York City. Dear Sir: In connection with the story you are preparing for Pearson's Magazine, it seemed to me that the following quotation might be of help to you: "THE POWER OF COURTS TOREVIEW. -- The courts had no jurisdiction to review the action of the appointing officer in the moving an employee," (Taylor v. Taft Secretary of War, 24 App., D. C., 95). This is taken from the Acts of Congress referring to the Civil Service power of courts to review. It shows the right of Congress to declare that an act shall not be reviewable by, or subject to, the action of any court. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*739*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] M April 12, 1911. Mr. H. W. Joel, 38 Sidney Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th instant is at hand, in which you tender your resignation as volunteer organizer for Cambridge and vicinity, stating that you have not the time to attend to it. Of course, under these circumstances, I can only accept your resignation, and take this opportunity to thank you for the good work performed by you which action in this 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. Relative to commission being issued to M. D. Collins, I beg to say that before this can be done it will be necessary for Brother Collins to forward the official endorsement of the Central Labor Union. You will understand that this is the course always followed in the appointment of volunteer organizers when there is a central body in the vicinity. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President A. F. of L. P.S. Your bill of expenses will be handed to Secretary Morrison.[*740*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] M April 12, 1911. Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to contract for advertisement for the Wolfe Brush Company of Pittsburg. Enclosed you will please find copy of letter from this Company under date of April 3. I have not yet made any reply thereto and I would like your advice. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Ed. AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.[*741*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] WOLFE BRUSH COMPANY Pittsburgh, Pa., April 3, 1911. American Federationist, 801-809 G St., N. W., Washington, D. C. Gentlemen: We are in receipt of your April number, and note that our advertisement appears therein on page 262. We have notified you that this advertisement was not placed at our direction and this is to notify you that I will not pay for same. Very truly yours, Wolfe Brush Company. H. M. Baxter.[*742*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] M April 11, 1911. IN REPLY PLEASE STATE NUMBER OF RESOLUTION - 14. Mr. Hugh Frayne, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Under date of April 10th Secretary William Blue of Elevator Operators and Starters Union No. 13076 writes me as follows: "I have been instructed by the above organization to call your attention to the decision of the St. Louis Convention, 1910, giving jurisdiction to Elevator Conductors Union, over all Elevators, and request that you instruct the Elevator Constructors Union No. 1, of New York City regarding this matter in order that they cease from infringing on our jurisdiction." The resolution to which he refers is No. 14, of the St. Louis Convention which reads as follows: "WHEREAS, The Chicago Elevator Conductors and Starters' Union No. 11959 has been duly organized and chartered by the American Federation of Labor; and WHEREAS, The jurisdiction of the Elevator Conductors and Starters' Union has not been defined and no mention of said organization is made in the A. F. of L.'s instructions to organizers: therefore, be it Resolved, That the jurisdiction of the Chicago Elevator Conductors and Starters' Union No. 11959 be and is hereby defined as follows: "That the Chicago Elevator Conductors and Starters' Union No. 11959 shall have the right to operate all passenger and freight elevators installed in buildings, and to operate all elevators that carry passengers, furniture, freight and merchandise in buildings in the course of construction, when such buildings are tenanted, and be it further[*743*] [?]. F. 2. RESOLVED, That the American Federation of Labor instruct its organizers to organize into unions all persons engaged in the operation of elevators as above described in all cities where such unions are not already organized." The Committee to which Resolution 14 was referred recommended concurrence in the resolution with the addition of the following "That this shall not include the hoisting of such building material to be used on the premises." The Convention passed Resolution 14 with the amendment as recommended by the Committee. The complaint of Local No. 13076 is placed in your hands as the official representative of the A. F. of L. in New York City, with the request that at your earliest convenience that you take the matter up in line with the action of the St. Louis Convention. Please let me have a word from you in regard to the matter, and oblige. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*744*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] M April 12, 1911. IN REPLY PLEASE STATE NUMBER OF RESOLUTION - 14. Mr. William Blue, Secretary, Elevator Operators and Starters Union No. 13076, 601 First St., Hoboken, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother, Replying to your favor of the 10th instant in which you refer to the action of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L. as regards the matter of jurisdiction of Elevator Constructors Union No. 1, I beg to say that I have sent copy of your letter to Organizer Hugh Frayne, 25 Third Avenue, New York City, official representative of the A. F. of L. with request that he give the matter his early attention. No doubt he will get into communication with you in the course of a few days. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*745*] LF April 11,1911 [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. J[ames] Hutton, Secretary S[ton]e Cutters Local Union, 73 E Center St., Provo,Utah. Dear [Sir] and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*746*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. James Hutton--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Bartow & Blake Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*747*] LF April 11, 1911, Mr. J. H. McDonald, Secretary Local Union #712, United Brotherhood of Carpenters 1013 Greenup St., Covington, Ky Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*]Mr. J. H. McDonald--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon Fischer Bros. Company and Dines Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to theabove. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*749*] LF April 11,1911 [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. Geo B. Hohlt, Secretary Musicians' Local Union #363, Stillwater, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*750*] Mr. Geo. B. Hohlt--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Simonet Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*75?*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] LF April 11,1911 Mr. G. R. Coleson, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Box [875?], Huron, South Dakota. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*752*] Mr. G. R. Coleson--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Waibel Hardware Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*753*] [*COPIED. APR 1[?] 1911*] LF April 11,1911 Mr. J. W. Woodman, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Box 104, Aberdeen, South Dakota. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*754*] Mr. J. W. Woodman--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Crocker-Owens Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*755*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] LF April 11,1911 Mr. John M. Taylor, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, [508?] 4th Ave. N. E., Brainerd, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*756*] Mr. John M. Taylor--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon T. L. Lively, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*757*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] LF April 11,1911 Mr. Henry Steen, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, [118?] [E?] Fifth St., Winona, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*758*] Mr. Harry Steen--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon Morrison Bros., to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*759*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] LF April 11,1911 Mr. Charles F. Yates, Organizer, Trades Council, Johnson City, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*760*] Mr. Charles F. Yates--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Duncan-Baker Hardware Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*761*] COPIED. APR 12 1911 LF April 11 1911 Mr.Charles A. Sullivan, Organizer, Harrisburg, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St.Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*762*] [*COPIED APR 12 1911*] Mr. Charles A. Sullivan - 2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Duncan-Baker Hardware Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Yours fraternally, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*763*] LF April 11, 1911 [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. J. M. McIntosh, Secretary Labor Council, Box 735, Kern Co., Bakersfield, California. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*764*] [COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. J. M. McIntosh---2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Haberfeldt Furniture Company to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it of you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Yours fraternally, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*765*] LF April 11, 1911 [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. R. C.Wright, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 732 Hayes, Ave., Colorado Springs, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's Stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to endorsement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*766*] [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Mr. R. C. Wright--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon Lowell & Meserve, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Yours fraternally yours, Sam'l. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*767*] LF April 11,1911 Mr. W.W. Chandler, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Grand Junction, Colorado. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St.Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stove and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that Justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*768*] Mr. W. W. Chandler--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon Messrs Bannister Bros., to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Yours fraternally, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. April 12 1911*][*769*] April 11, 1911 [*COPIED. APR 12, 1911*] Mr. S. L. Rodgers, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 234 North Myers St., Tucson, Arizona. Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St.Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*770*] Mr. S. L. Rodgers--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the furniture department of Steinfeldt Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I, am, Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. COPIED. APR 12 1911[*771*] LF April 11,1911 Mr. J. M. Albrecht, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 1135 Orchard St., Newport, Ky. [*COPIED. APR 12, 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an to end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*772*] Mr. J. M. Albrecht -- 2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon Fischer Bros. Co., Hoffman Hardware & Seed Co., H [?]ingee & Son, and Louis Marx & Bro., to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*][*773*] LF April 11,1911 Mr. M. C. Hutchen, Organizer, American Federation of Labor 714 Fifth St., Henderson, Kentucky [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will also please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathizers.[*774*] Mr. M. C. Hutchen--2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the Levy Furniture Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the best interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organized labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED APR 12 1911*][*775*] LF April 11, 1911 Mr. Paul J. Smith, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Marion, Ill. [*COPIED APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: From time to time the President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis has advised me of the difficulty the traveling representatives of that Company have encountered when calling upon stove dealers for the purpose of having them place orders for the Buck's stoves and ranges, the dealers in many instances stating that they could not handle the goods, would have no sale for them, because of the attitude of organized labor to the Buck's Stove and Range Company. Enclosed you will please find copy of circular which was recently issued by this office in regard to the harmonious and friendly relations now existing between organzed labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and calling attention to the fact that the management of that company could not by anything it could possibly do put an end to the cases pending in the United States Supreme Court, and that justice and right demand that all should be informed that the Buck's Stove and Range Company is entitled to the encouragement and patronage of all labor's friends and sympathisers.Mr. Paul J. Smith -- 2 I would therefore suggest that you should wait upon the [Duncan-Baker?] Hardware Company, to formally and officially advise them of the facts as set forth in the enclosed circular. You will appreciate that it is not only to the interest of the companies, but to the best interests of organised labor that the greatest possible publicity should be given to labor's present relations with that company. I would appreciate it if you would let me have a word from you in regard to the above. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [Samuel Gompers?] President American Federation of Labor[*777*] Mr. H. L. Eichelberger, Organizer, Brill Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir: Your favor of the 8th instant has been duly received, with which you enclose clippings in relation to the convention of the American Academy of Political and Social Science. Please accept thanks for the same. I am sure Mr. Gompers will be pleased to have them. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to the President, American Federation of Labor[*778*] April 12, 1911 Mr. S. B. Duke, Secretary, Local Union #257, Cigar Makers' Int'l Union, 324 W. Walnut St., Lancaster Pa. [*COPIED. APR 12 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 10th instant, in which you ask for the names of the union stockings manufacturers, has been duly received. I have referred it to Mr. Thomas F. Tracy, Secretary of the Union Label Trades Department of the A. F. of L., Room 708 Ouray Building, Washington, D.C., with the request that he reply to it direct. No doubt you will hear from him in a short space of time. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor[*779] Z April 12, 1911 Mr. Thomas F. Tracy, Secretary, Union Label Trade Department, A. F. of L., Room 708 Ourey Building, City. COPIED. APR 13 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: The following letter, dated April 10th, has just been received by law, from Mr. S. B. Duke, Secretary of Cigarmakers' local Union No. 257, 324 W. Walnut Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania: "Will you please forward me a few names of union stockings manufacturers?" I have advised Mr. Duke that his communication has been referred to you for a reply. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. COPIED. APR 13 1911 April 12, 1911. I. [??]. [??]. N. Parisean, Secretary, Local 586, Journeyman Barbara International Union, 768 Broadway, Gery, Indiana. Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of April ninth in which you enclose manuscript for publication in the American Federationist. The matter will be brought to President Gompers' personal attention at the earliest opportunity and you will be advised in regard thereto. In the meantime I beg to thank you in his name for your courtesy in submitting the manuscript to him. If it is not found available for the columns of the American Federationist it will be be promptly returned to you. Very truly yours, *R. Lee Gured* Secretary to President Gompers.April 12, 1911. x. Mr. L.W. Mason, President, Mr. E.L. Shearod, Secretary, Federal Labor Union #12614 Dension, Texas. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Your favor of the ninth [nstant] received and contents noted. In reply let me say that the Constitution of the A. F. of L. Article 11, Section 6, provides for the organization of separate local unions composed of colored [workmen] and separate Central labor Unions composed of the delegates from these local unions of colored workmen when it is deemed to the best interests of the movement that such a course should be followed. I am now in correspondence with the Secretary of the Denison Trades Council in regard to the matter of the organization of central body of colored workmen in Denison. Federal Labor Union #12614 not bing represented in the Denison Trades Council, neither its officers nor members are entitled to attend the meetings of the Trades Council. I infer from your letter that some trouble has arisen between your local and the Trade Council because of either you or some of your fellow officers attenting the meet ngs of that body. I shall write you further upon receipt of a reply from Mr. Riddle, Secretary of the Central Labor Union. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Smal. Gommers President, American Federation of Labor.782 Copied Apr 13 1911 LF Washington, D.C., April 13, 1 James Duncan Hancock Building, Quincy Mass. Please let me have immediately corrected galley proof your article i sent you several days ago. Samuel Gompers (Charge to A. F. of L.)783 X. April 12, 1911 [Copied Apr 13 1911] Mr. M. L. Riddle, Secretary, Labor Trades Council, 1324 West Morton Street, Denison, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Under date of April 9th the Secretary and President of Federal Labor Union #12614 (colored) write me as follows: "The time has come that I will need to dall on you for help in this case. Nowthat is this, at a meeting of the Denison Trades Council held on the 5th of April, 1911, there was a communication read for the Boiler Makers local of Denison, Texas, stating that they would withdraw their membership from the Trade Council if that negro continue to meet the Council. Now we never have had affiliation in the Trade Council and you know that are not constitutional, but that was all right with me for we have been trying to get a trade council for our own in Denison. Now the Trades Council moved that I would stop attending the Council until they got that matter straight. Now I will tell you that I don't believe that they will ever get it straight unless you straighten them so we want you to tell us what to do about it. Now if the Executive Council say for local #12614 to stop meeting the trade council of Denison, we will stop so let us know at once whether or not to meet the Council." In connection with the above matter your attention is called to Article 11, Section 6, of the Constitution of the A. F. of I, which provides for the organization of separate unions of colored workmen and separate Central Labor Unions composed of the delegates from local unions of colored workers, when in the judgement of the Executive ONuneil and all parties interested that is the best course to pursue in the interests of the labor movement. Article 11, Section 6 reads as follows: 784 Mr. M. L. Riddle -2- "Separate charters may be issued to Central Labor Unions, Local Unions, or Federal Labor Unions, composed exclusively of colored members, where, in the judgment of the Executive Council, it appears advisable and to the best interest of the Trade Union movement to do so." The negro workers must be organized in order that they may be in a position to protect themselves and in some way feel an interest with our organized white workmen, or we shall unquestionably have their undying enmity. This is not a question of love or sentiment, but the hardest kind of practicability and common interest. If we do not in some way make friends of the colored workmen, the employer will not be slow to take advantage of our hostility or indifference and use the colored workmen to defeat the endeavors of the white workmen in every effort to either obtain improvement in our condition or to resist deterioration. I would therefore suggest that at the next regular meeting of your Trades Council the matter of the organization of a separate central labor union composed of the delegates of the organizations of colored workmen should be given consideration. I am sure the Executive Council would have no hesitancy in issuing charter to such a body if upon investigation it be found that the best interests of the labor movement of Denison would thereby served. Hoping to hear from you in regard to the above matter at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*785*] [*COPIED. APR 14 1911*] X. April 13, 1911. Mr. J. AI. [?]eisenbach, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Peru, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of April 6th, in regard to union made cigar boxes, I beg to say I am in receipt of a letter from Mr. Geo. M. Guntner, member of the General Council Amalgamated Woodworkers, of 25 Folsom Street, Roslindale, Mass., in which he states that union made boxes are manufactured by the following concerns: The Alberti Box Co., Cambridge, Mass. S.T. Streider Co., 171 Ruggles St., Boston, Mass. National Box Co., 164 Canal St., Boston, Mass. The Tilton Box Co., Manchester, Mass. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.786 X. April 13, 1911 Mr. Geo. M. Guntner, Member, General Council, Amalgamated Woodworkers International Union of America, 25 Folsom Street, Roslindale, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant is received, giving me the names of union cigar box manufacturers using the union label, in your [v]icinity, for which please accept my thanks. I have given the information to my correspondent. Reciprocating your good wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [Signature] Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor787 X. April 13, 1911. Mr. John P. Frey, Editor International Molders' Journal, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother: I appreciate your letter of the tenth. Am indeed glad to know from you as well as from others who have commun[ic]ated with me upon the subject that the news letter is being so favorably received. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, [Signature] Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.788 X. April 12, 1911. Miss Zula Taylor, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Fort Scott, Kansas. Dear Madam: Your undat[e]d favor received here on the tenth instant. You say that you contemplate organizing "everything in sight under instructions of the State Federation of Labor", and you request me to send you application blanks and literature. I take it that you have under way the matter of the organization of local unions of different national and international unions. I would therefore suggest that you write to the secretaries of the International unions of the various trades you have in mind, who would be glad to give you full data, information, and such printed matter as may be necessary to assist you in the work of organizing locals of their respective trades and callings. Now as to the matter of the organization of a Central Labor Union at Fort Scott, you will please find enclosed several circulars entitled "How", giving full information as to the necessary steps to take to form a Central Body. I also enclose blank form of application for charter, which upon the organization of the Central Body should be properly filled in and sent to this office, together with the necessary charter fee of Five Dollars, and Five Dollars for outfit should latter be desired.789 Miss Zula Taylor -2- Hoping to hear from you further with formal application for charter for a Central Labor Union of Fort Scott, I am, Fraternally yours, [SIgnature] Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.790 Z April 12, 1911. Mr. E. J. Davis, Organizer, 1375 East Fifty-seventh St., Los Angeles, California. Dear Sir and Brother, Under date of February 27th I wrote you making inquiry in regard to the "Fraternal Brotherhood", but have not as yet received any reply from you. My letter may have been mislaid so I enclose a copy of it herein. If you can give me any information in regard to this matter I shall be glad to have you do so. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, [Signature] Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.791 COPY. Feb. 27, 1911. Mr. E. J. Davis, Organizer, 1375 East Fifty-seventh St., Los Angeles, California. Dear Sir and Brother: One of my correspondents has requested information from me as to the "Fraternal Brotherhood", it appearing from a circular letter sent out from Los Angeles about six or eight weeks ago, that the Fraternal Brotherhood has discontinued its membership in the Merchats [sic] and Manufacturers Association. I wish you would give me full information as to who represents the Fraternal Brotherhood or as to what it represents. Hoping to receive your early reply, and thanking you in advance, I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. 792 Z April 12, 911. [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Mr. J. C. Privett, Sec'y-Treasurer, The Florida State Federation of Labor, Jacksonville, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 10th instant received and contents noted. I am greatly interested in what you say as regards the several bills in the interests of labor which will be introduced at the present session of the Florida State Federation of Labor. I most sincerely trust that the committee may be successful in securing their enactment. I note your suggestion as to the financial assistance in bearing the expenses of the Legislative Committee but I regret to say that the A. F. of L. has no fund from which to draw such expenses and therefore it will not be within our power to extend the assistance you request. I might say that a number of similar requests have been received from several states, to all of which we have been compelled to reply as above. With best wishes for the success of the legislative campaign of the Florida State Federation of Labor and asking you to keep me fully advised, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. [*793*] [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] Z April 12, 1911 Mr. W.F. Yocker, Secretary, Local Union No. 74, Int'l Assn. of Stea and Hot Water Fitters and Helpers 3501 E. 23rd St., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 7th instant received and contents noted. You refer to the controversy between your local union and the Plumbers' Local Union and request me to advise you as to what should be done. Now in regard to the general subject matter of the United Association of Journeymen Plumbers and the International Association of Steam and Hot Water Fitters and Helpers let me say that I am endeavoring now to arrange a conference between the representatives of these two International bodies to be held at the headquarters of the A.F. of L. at a very early date. When that conference is held I shall endeavor to have the subject matter of your letter given consideration. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*794*] Z April 12, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] Mr. W. J. Coates, Organizer, 311 Sprague Avenue, Spokane, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 4th instant received and contents noted. In it you enclose a letter from the local Steam Fitters' Union. Now in regard to the general subject matter of the United Association of Plumbers and the International Association of Steam and Hot Water Fitters and Helpers let me say that I am endeavoring now to arrange a conference between the representatives of these two International bodies to be held at the headquarters of the A. F. of L. at a very early date. When that conference is held I shall endeavor to have the subject matter of your letter given consideration. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*795*] X. April 12, 1911. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #136. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs Stablemen and Helpers of America, 222 E. Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Ind. [COPIED APR 13, 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the tenth instant has been received and contents noted. I presume by this time you have my letter to you of the same date. You say that as your executive board was in session on the seventh, the date when the conference between representatives of the Brotherhood and the representatives of the Bakers' International Union was to be held in Chicago on April seventh, as per Resolution #136, and that therefore it was impossible for you to personally attend the conference. You further say that you delegated certain representatives of your International Union in Chicago to represent your Brotherhood just as I had "delegated Brother Fitzpatrick to represent the A. F. of L."; but that the representatives of the Bakers refused to meet the representatives appointed by you, claiming that they had agreed to meet only you. You then desired to know whether the Executive Council or the undersigned contemplate rendering any decision on the subject matter involved in Resolution #136. Let me say first that by referring to the action of the[*796*] Mr. Daniel J. Tobin -2- convention as appearing on page 287 of the official printed proceedings you will note that the President of the A. F. of L. was directed to arrange a conference between the representatives of the two organizations with the object of bringing about a satisfactory agreement between them. The convention did not authorize the appointment of a representative of the A. F. of L. I merely advised Organizer Fitzpatrick of the conference having been called to be held in his office on April seventh no that he might make the necessary arrangements for the accomodation of those participating in the conference. There was no question as to his taking part in the conference whatever. While the St. Louis Convention did not designate that the representatives of your Brotherhood in this conference should be members of you executive board, yet I take it that inasmuch as the matter to be considered at the conference is one involving the interests of both organizations, it seemed to me that the purpose of the conference would be better and more expeditiously served if one or more members of your executive board [were] would represente your Brotherhood at such a conference. If you will advise me when it will be convenient for the representatives of your Brotherhood to participate in a conference with the representatives of the Bakers' International Union, I will again take the matter up with the executive officers of the latter organization and when a mutually convenient and agreeable time and place can be decided upon I will again issue a formal call for the conference. As you will further note from the official printed proceedings of the St. Louis Convention as set forth on page 287, neither the Executive Council nor the President of the A. F. of L. is authorized to give any decision in this matter.[*797*] Mr. Daniel J. Tobin -3- Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED APR 13, 1911*][*798*] X. April 18, 1911. [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION #136. Mr. J. J. Fitzpatrick, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 275 La Salle Street, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of the tenth instant in regard to Resolution #136 of the St. Louis Convention, I beg to enclose to you herein copy letter which I have just written to President Tobin of the Teamsters. It seemed to me that you should be in possession of the matter and hence the enclosed is sent to you. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*799*] X. April 13, 1911. [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Mr. Frank D. Mulholland, 1311 Nicholas Block, Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir: It seemed to me that the enclosed copy of the George Johas Glass Company vs. The Glass Bottle Blowers Association and others in the New Jersey Court of Errors and Appeals would be of interest to you. It was sent me by one of my correspondents and I have had copies made as per the enclosed. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*800*] X. April 13, 1911. Mr. C. O. Pratt, Chairman, Executive Board, Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes of America, Lock Box 337, Philadelphia, Pa. [*COPIED APR 13, 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: In going through a lot of papers that have been on my desk for quite some time, I find a letter you wrote me the latter part of last December in regard to a compulsory investigation bill which you desired to introduce in the Pennsylvania State Legislature. In some way your letter became buried in a pile of other papers and no reply was made to it. I find, however, that later on I wrote very fully upon the subject to President Mahon, and I have no doubt but that he advised you in regard thereto. Hence I am merely writing this as an acknowledgement of the receipt of your letter and an explanation of my failure to make prompt reply thereto. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*write me often*][*801*] X. April 13, 1911. Mr. Chas. A. Yates, Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Assembly, Room 202, Duguid Bldg., Syracuse, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the ninth instant is at hand and contents noted. You say: "We desire to take up with you a question that for some years has been agitated pro and con and is now a much mooted question in our Central Body. What we wish is, a definite answer to the proposition 'Does a central body of organized labor have the right to penalize a union affiliated for non-observance of a decision of the majority of the unions affiliated and can we insist on the payment of a fine in the enforcement of such discipline.'" My reply is in the negative. The central body must exercise its influence in a better way than by the imposition of fines. The results may not be attained as quickly by following the course I indicate, but the results are surely more permanent. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*The A.F. of L. has no power to impose a fine on any organization or [on?] [itself?]*][*802*] [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] X. April 13, 1911. Hon. John K. Beach, 865 Chapel Street, New Haven, Conn. Dear Sir: Please accept my thanks for your letter of the 11th, together with copy of the opinion of the court in the Loewe case. In all probability I shall publish it in the May issue of the American Federationist. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.803 COPIED APR 13 1911 X. April 13, 1911. Miss. E. O. Morris, 3 Claremont Avenue, Mount Vernon, New York. Dear Madam: Please accept my thanks for sending me copy of the second of Mr. Mitchell's letters to the United Mine Workers' Journal. I shall be glad to have copy of each one as he prepares them. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*804*] X. April 12, 1911. COPIED. APR 13 1911 Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which I have just received from Mr. Victor Buhr, Secretary of the Painters District Council of New York City. I have no information in regard to this matter other than the enclosed letterand am therefore referring the matter to you for such reply as you may desire to make. Hoping to receive your early reply, and wish best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*805*] COPIED APR 13 1911 COPY BROTHERHOOD OF PAINTERS, DECORATORS AND PAPERHANGERS, DISTRICT COUNCIL OF NEW YORK CITY. New York, April 11, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, Headquarters, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The writer has been instructed by District Council #9 to communicate with you regarding the attitude of the American Federation of Labor in this vicinity relating to the orginizating of Painters outside of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America. District Council #9 desires to inform you that our books have never been closed nor do we propose to close them. Our initiation fee is now $25.00, and has always been reasonable when compared with the benefits our members enjoy. Some union destroyers have lately tried to organize so-called painters into a union known as the alteration painters and their desire is to get into the Brotherhood of P. D. and P. of A. at either no initiation fee whatsoever or a very cheap rate, something like $3.00 each. The matter has been taken up by Organizer Frayne, submitted to our National Headquarters who sent on Vice-President Kelley to have this matter looked into. District Council #9 decided that those men can come into the Organization providing they are mechanics and can pass the examination and pay the required initiation fee. This possibly may not be of very much interest to you but we would like you to consider whether it is in the interest of established national unions to have any consideration given to upspringing[*806*] -2- springing rival organizations who have no other purpose than to cause strife and dissension among the organized workers. It appears that Mr. H. Frayne, Organizer of the A. F. of L. has given considerable encouragement to the so-called alteration painters and hence it can be explained that 3,000 are willing to join the Brotherhood of Painters providing we take them in for nothing or at least very little. Those men are not painters and would be of no benefit whatsoever towards our national labor movement in so far as a good many of them follow other callings beside painters, for instance, peddling, etc. The very attempt to make a distinction between [the] a painter and an alteration painter is an infringement on the rights of painters guaranteed by the American F. of L., and the meddling of such people interferes with the natural growth of our organization in this vicinity. I am not supposed to write this letter as a matter of criticism on the part of the Organizer in this vicinity but to advance reasons why secession should not be encouraged through the pretence that men can join again through some rival body at the cheap rate. When we first heard of the alteration painters they were supposed to be 500 strong. They raised their numbers to 3,000 and if the Organizer of the A. F. of L. keeps on meddling with them any longer every incoming steamer will swell their number another thousand who all claim that the painting industry owes them a living. The Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators have done everything possible to enroll every man in our craft into our organization and [why] while the attitude of Mr. Hugh Frayne may be commendable from [*807*] --3-- a general point of view to organized workers as far as numbers are concerned, we must have also in mind the interest of our members who have worked for years for the building up of our organization to what it is today and who are still doing their share towards its advancement, so that they will not be overrun by an inferior element not able to command wages and hours established in our craft. W,e therefore expect you to advise Mr. Frayne in future to keep his hands off rival painters unions in this vicinity as long as D. C. #9 is in a position to control the situation. Expecting that this communication will have the desired effect, I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Victor Buhr, Secretary, N. Y. D. C. #9. COPIED. APR 13 1911808 COPIED APR 12 1911 X. April 12, 1911. Mr. Victor Buhr, Secretary, Painters' District Council of New York City. 1648 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant received and contents noted. Inasmuch as your letter is a protest against the course followed by Organizer Hugh Frayne as regards the Painters, I have sent copy of your letter to him for such reply as he may desire to make in the premises. When I receive his reply I will endeavor to write you further. In the meantime, with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*809*] [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] LF April 13, 1911 Mr. Richard Lloyd Jones, Colliers Weekly, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir: Enclosed you will please find bill as submitted to us by the concern which addressed and wrapped the 50,000 pamphlets. Kindly send check direct to me and it will be promptly transmitted and receipted bill sent you. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure:[*810*] [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] X. April 13, 1911. Messrs. Ralston and Siddons and Richardson, Bond Buliding, City. Gentlemen: It seemed to me that the enclosed copy of the Georage Jonas Glass Company vs. The Glass Bottle Blowers Association and others in the New jersey Court of Errors and Appeals would be of interest to you. It was sent me by one of my correspondents and I have had copies made as per the enclosed Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*811*] X. April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] Hon. Lincoln Dixon, House of Representatives, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: You requested me a few days ago to give you some information as to the appointment of Boiler Inspectors under the new Locomotive Boiler Inspection Act. In conformity therewith I beg to advise you that a Chief Inspector and two Assistant Chief Inspectors must be appointed by the President of the United States, by and with the advice and consent of the United States Senate. The chief inspector and his two assistants must be selected with reference to their practical knowledge of the construction, and repairing of boilers and to their fitness and ability to systematize and carry into effect the provisions relating to the inspection and maintenance of locomotive boilers. Fifty locomotive boiler inspection districts covering the United States are arranged so that one district inspector shall have charge in such a district. The said fifty district inspectors must be in the classified service and appointed after competitive examination according to the law and the rules of the Civil Service Commission governing the classified service. Applicants for such positions as district inspectors will be rigidly examined concerning their knowledge of construction, repairing, operation[*812*] -2- testing, inspection and their practical experience in such work, all of which is to be part of the examination by the Civil Service Commission. The Interstate Commerce Commission will make its appointments for such district inspectors from the eligible list furnished by the Civil Service Commission. No person interested directly or indirectly in any patented article used on any locomotive shall be eligible to hold office of either chief inspector, assistant, or district inspector. Trusting that this will give you the desired information, I am, Respectfully yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*813*] Z April 12, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] Mr. L. Ranselle, Secretary, L. U. 1020, United Bro. of Carpenters and Joiners, 104 Green Street, Palestine, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of April 5th I beg to say that thus far I have been unable to get any information in regard to the Fraternal Brotherhood to which you refer. I am still investigating the matter and if I learn anything definite upon the subject I shall be glad to write you further. It might be well if you would write me again as a reminder. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*814*] [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] M. April 12, 1911 Mr. J. C. Merrill, Organizer, Box 332, Moncton, N.B. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 5th received enclosing submission. In accordance with the information contained in your letter commission as general volunteer organizer will be issued to Charles W. Bleckney. 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 to him in this work. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.LF April 13 ,1911 [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Mr. Ernest Behm, Secretary Central Federated Union, 210 East Fifth St., New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence in regard to the trouble between the Metal Polishers of New York City and the chandelier manufacturers, I beg to advise you that President Comerford of the International Union of Steam Engineers, to whom I wrote, requesting his assistance in the matter, writes me under date of April 11th, as follows: I am in receipt of your letter dated the 4th instant, in which my attention is called to the difficulty existing between the Metal Polishers of New York City and the Chandelier Manufacturers and requesting me to have our local unions in this city to assist the Metal Polishers as much as possible. I will gladly do as you suggest and urge our Locals to do whatever they possibly can in this direction. I notice Secretary Bohm of the Central Federated Union expressed the opinion that the Building Trades can be of great assistance to the Metal Polishers. If his opinion is correct then the proper course for him to pursue, in my opinion, is to appear before the Building Trades Council and request that their assistance be given the Metal Polishers. However, I will urge the members of our organization here to do all they possible can when the matter comes before the Council." I shall be glad to transmit to you any further replies which I may receive from the various organizations of the Building Trades.[*816*] Mr. Ernest Bohm--2 With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED APR 13 1911*][*817*] LF April 13, 1911 [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Mr. Malcolm G. Wyer, Librarian The State University of Iowa Iowa City, Iowa Dear Sir: Your favor of the 10th instant is at hand and contents noted. In reply I beg to say that we can let you have the complete set of the bound printed proceedings of the Annual Conventions of the American Federation of Labor for $17.00. The proceedings of the St. Louis Convention as yet are only in paper covers, and you already have copy of that. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*818*] [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] LP April 13, 1911 Mr. Matt Comerford, President International Union of Steam Engineers, 309-310 Temple Bar Annex, Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Acknowledging receipt of your favor of the 11th instant, I want to thank you for your prompt attention to and compliance with the request contained in my letter to your of April 4th, With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*819*] LF April 13, 1911 [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Mr. A. McAndrew, President Tobacco Workers' International Union, American Natl. Bank Bldg., 3rd & Main Sts., Louisville, KY. Dear Sir and Brother: In compliance with your request of April 11th I am sending to you under separate cover one of my photographs which I hope you will accept with my sincere good wishes. I beg to thank you for your congratulations upon my re-election as First Vice-President of the Cigarmakers' International Union and as delegate to the Convention of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*820 *] X. April 13, 1911. Hon. William A. Cullop, Room 144, House Office Building, Washington D. C Dear Sir: In compliance with your request for a good child labor law, I refer you to Bulleton 85 of the United States Bureau of Labor, Pages 701-704, giving the child labor law of the States of Ohio, and to pages 795-796 of the same bulletin, being the law of the state of Washington. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation Labor. P.S. You can see copy of Bulleton #85 in the rooms of the Committee on Labor of the House of Representatives or in the Library of Congress. [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*][*821*] LF April 13, 1911 Mr. F. J. McLaughlin Organizer 1491 Nuuanu Street Honolulu, Hawaii [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which I have just received from President T. V. O'Connor of the International Longshoremen's Association, enclosing copy of a letter written to him by Mr. David Ewaliko, Secretary of the Independent Longshoremen of Hawaii. As you will note. President O'Connor requests that the organizer for the American Federation of Labor in Hawaii should get into communication with the Secretary of the Independent Longshoremen's Union in regard to the matter about which he writes to Mr. O'Connor. I should be glad to have you give this matter your attention as soon as you can and would be pleased to hear from you in regard thereto. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor Enclosure:[*822*] LF Copy. INTERNATIONAL LONGSHOREMEN'S ASSOCIATION Buffalo, N. Y. April 12, 1911 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor 801 G St. N. W. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will find copy of letter received from David Ewaliko, Secretary of the Independent Longshoremen of Hilo, Hawaii. My purpose in writing you on this matter is to ascertain if the American Federation of Labor has an organizer in Hawaii. If so, is he located near Hilo and would it be possible for you to arrange with him to either visit, or write the Secretary of the independent longshoremen? Thanking you in advance for anything you may do in this matter, I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) T. V. O'Connor.[*823*] LF Copy. Hilo, Hawaii, March 16, 1911. J. A. Madsen, Esq., Secretary-Treasurer, Pacific District 248 Flanders St., Portland, Oregon. Dear Sir and Brother: I have received your letter dated February 13, 1911, and the same was read before the meeting of the local union and on behalf of said union I was instructed to extend its vote of thanks and appreciation to your most brotherly letter inviting the union to join hands with the International Longshoremen's Association through your Pacific District. It is the unanimous desire of its member to affiliate with the Pacific District and through you with the International Longshoreman's Association. Perhaps you would like to get full information of the conditions of Labor which exist here in the part of Hilo and I will explain as follows: The Matson Navigation Co., is employing mostly Japs and few Hawaiians, theirs foremen is a Japanese, receiving a salary of $60.00 per month. The Jap getting from $1.25 to $1.50 per day for 10 hours work. Hawaiians getting from $2.00 to $2.50 per day for the same number of hours. The only trouble with the longshoremen here they would not work alongside of a Jap' The sugar interests of these Islands prefer to have cheap labor and cheap labor they employ. The same condition applies with the handling of lumber. The Japanese and Filipino does all the handling on land, receiving from $1.00 to $1.10 per day. Citizen labor same. Now you can readily see the condition which exists here at the present time. The only salvation left to us, the working class, is to join hands with you and in that case might remedy the evils that have been fosters on these Islands. I think if your district can send a delegate down here to investigate the labor conditions it might be a good thing for the International Longshoremen's Association to know exactly the conditions of labor better than we could tell you. Please advise us further on this matter. As soon as our application is signed by the members I will forward you same, with the money. Hoping your District will do all in its power to unite us for the good cause. Fraternally yours (Signed) David Ewaliko Secretary Hilo Longshoremen[*824*] LF April 13, 1911 [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Mr. T. V. O'Connor, President International Longshoremen's Association, 104 Mutual Life Building, Bufdalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant in which you enclose copy of letter from David Ewaliko, Secretary of the Independent Longshoremen of Hilo, Hawaii, has been duly received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am this day writing to our organizer in Honolulu, Brother F. J. McLaughlin, sending him copy of your letter to me and asking him to give this matter his early attention, and that he get into communication with the Secretary of the Independent Longshoremen's Untion. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*825*] LF April 13, 1911 [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] Mr. T. H. Flynn, Organizer, Parlor D, Monongahela House Pittsburg Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant is receive and contents noted. I am indeed gratified that you were able to adjust matters at Patton, Pa., and so greatly to the advantage of the silk workers. Acting upon your recommendation I have issued a commission to Mr. James Mitchell of the United Mine Workers Local #842 of Patton, as volunteer organiser for Patton and vicinity. It will be sent to him by an early mail, together with such printed matter and other data as will be of assistance to him in the work. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*826*] LF April 13, 1911 COPIED. APR 13 1911 Mr. Jere L. Sullivan, Secretary Hotel & Restaurant Employes Intl. Alliance, etc., Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio Dear Sir and Brother: I am just in receipt of a letter from L. Didion & Co. P. O. Box 3, Grand Central, New York, N. Y., publishers, in which they request printed matter and descriptive literature relating to your union. I have written them that I would take the matter up with you and therefore request that you send them such printed matter as you have and also copy of your official journal, "The Mixer & Server." With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*827*] LF April 13, 1911 L. Didion & Company P. O. Box 3 Grand Central New York, N. Y. Gentlemen: Your favor of the 12th instant is received and contents noted. You request sample copies of any printed matter and descriptive literature which I may have regarding the Hotel and Restaurant Employee International Alliance and the Bar Tenders International League of America. the Secretary of that organization is Mr. Jere L. Sullivan, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati Ohio, and I have requested him to send such matter to you. His organization publishes an official journal, "The Mixer and Server" and I further requested that he should send copy to you and give you his advertising rates. I note the circular notice you enclose of the book your company publishes in German and which you say will soon appear in English. I should be glad if you would send a copy of he English translation of it tome when it is out for notice in the American Federationist. Very truly yours, President, A. F. of L.[*828*] [*COPIED APR 13, 1911*] April 13, 1911 Mr. John R. Alpine, 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. If Secretary Davies persists that amalgamation shall not be discussed at conference and you insist that amalgamation be discussed, it would be useless for me to call a conference at Washington. I ask you as I am telegraphing Mr. Davies as to advisability of holding conference without restriction of subjects to be considered. Wire answer whether you consent. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[*829*] [*COPIED APR 13, 1911*] Mr. W. H. Davies, 205 Merrick Building, 351 West 63d. St., Chicago, Ill. Responding to my request for conference at Washington you replied that committee will be here if amalgamation is not discussed. Am asking you as I have telegraphed Mr. Alpine whether you committee will participate in conference at Washington without restrictions? Wire answer. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[*830*] [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] X. April 13, 1911. Mr. Daniel Harris, 190 Bowery, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: There is a matter about which I should like to have your opinion immediately. There is an amendment to the Child Labor Law before the Legislature of Illinois, so as to permit children to take part in theatrical productions under certain circumstances and conditions. The amendment provides for an investigation by the factory inspector of the state, and upon their report and recommendation a judge of one of the circuit courts shall have power to issue or refuse to issue a permit for such children to take part in a theatrical performance. I recall the fact that at one time children were not permitted to take part in theatrical performances in the State of New York, and that the law was amended some time ago so as to permit of their taking part upon obtaining certain permits. Will you please advise me what are the requirements for any child under fourteen years of age to take part in theatrical performances in the State of New York? I would also like to know whether that amendment to the Child Labor Law of New York has had any bad result in any industry?[*831*] Mr. Daniel Harris -2- I would be exceedingly obliged to you if you will write a reply to this tomorrow, Friday, so that I can have the answer here Saturday morning. Thanking you in advance for the assistance which you will render me in the matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*][*832*] X. April 13, 1911. COPIED APR 13, 1911 Hon. Alton B. Parker 37Wall Street. New York City. My dear friend: Your favor of the 11th and 12th instants to hand and contents noted. I have turned over the bill which you render to Secretary Morrison who will transmit check in payment. I thank you for enclosing the clipping from the New York World containing your interview commenting upon the decision reversing the judgement of the lower court in the Loswe vs. Lawlor, et al. case. It interested me very much and I regret that the other newspapers suppressed it. That one fact will indicate the attitude of mind and course of the newspaper proprietors. Here is a case of first importance, involving [the] great underlying principles, and yet one paper publishes it in part, another slights it by a mere phrase and others do not publish it all. We must never lose sight of this fact, that the proprietors of the newspapers are themselves large employers of labor and they are not inclined to stand for the principles of right and justice when it directly or indirectly, or even remotely, applies to their relation of employers toward their workmen. More than likely the larger space which the World gave may be in a measure attributed to its recent experience in the[*833*] Hon. Alton B. Parker --2-- courts when the government sought to make its proprietors defendants in a "criminal libel case". I could not be other than appreciative of the splendid efforts which you have put forth in our cases, and it is not only because of the masterful manner and matter which you brought to the attention of the court in your argument, but in our personal contact and the expression of your deepest conviction being in accord with the contentions which we make and which you ably presented to the court, I feel that you are in personal and private harmony with your professional advocacy of our cause. Nothing can be lost by the expression of an opinion regarding the outcome of our cause before the the United State Supreme Court, certainly nothing which I may say to you in this letter. Somehow I fancy you will be disappointed in your anticipation of "an equally favorable outcome of the contempt case". I "feel it in my bones". Many thanks for your kind expressions in regard to myself and good wishes for Mrs. Gompers. I regret to say that she is still confined to her bed and suffering greatly. With kindest regards and best wishes to yourself, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*834*] [*COPIED APR 14, 1911*] LF Washington, D. C. April 14, 1911 Mr. John R. Alpine 401-6 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill In response to my telegram to Secretary Davies asking whether he will have his committee meet here without restriction he telegraphs following reply: "Recent referendum vote of our organization decided against amalgamation and at the meeting of our executive board held March seventeenth to nineteenth inclusive they selected a committee and instructed them as per referendum against amalgamation. This committee is at your disposal." Please wire me if you will participate in conference with above understanding. Samuel Gompers {Charge to A. F. of L.)[*835*] [*COPIED APR 14, 1911*] Mr. P. E. Paris, Hampshire Paper Company South Hadley Falls, Mass. Dear Sir: By direction of President Gompers I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 11th instant in which you say that you are sending Mr. Gompers under separate cover a trial box of Old Hampshire Bond Stationery. Although the stationery as not yet come to hand, he thanks you in advance for your kindness in sending it to him. No doubt it will come on an early mail. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers[*836*] Y. April 11, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 14 1911*] Mr. Anthony A. Healy, President, Metal Trades Council, Huntington Avenue, Newport News, Virginia. Dear Sir and Brother: I have your kind favor of April 7, and in reply thereto, permit me to say that the decision of the Attorney-General on the eight-hour provision that was contained in the Naval Appropriation Bill for the year 1910, is as follows: "I think it clear that the provision in the Naval Appropriation Act must be construed to apply simply to work done upon the vessel itself at the place where it is built, and not as applying to the manufacture of machinery or other material elsewhere which is to enter into the construction of the vessel. This would limit the provision to work upon the vessel at the shipyards." I may say that this limitation of the interpretation of the eight-hour clause in the bill above referred to, as applied to the construction of the vessels authorized by Congress, may be in accordance with the letter of the law, but it is not in conformity with its spirit. During the session of Congress just closed more and better progress was made with eight hour legislation on [*837*] Mr. Anthony A. Healy----2. construction of battleships and other vessels for the Navy than in 1910. This matter is fully covered and reported in the Legislative Committee Report, which you can find in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST for the month of April. I am very pleased to learn of your making such substantial progress in your vicinity, and that you are so well pleased with the work Brother Smith is doing with you. Again with best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 14 1911*][*838*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] X. Mr. Edw. G. Pariseau, Secretary, Local #686, Journeymen Barbers' International Union, 766 Broadway, Gary, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reply to your favor of recent date in which you submit manuscript for publication in the American Federationist I beg to say that I was pleased to have the opportunity of reading your article, but I regret to say that as we have recently published so many articles and editorials along the same lines as the matter with which you deal, I hardly think your article would be timely for publication just now. Why not send it to some of the official trade journals or labor press as indicated on the enclosed list? you might be able to find publication in that way. Again thanking you for your courtesy, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor EDITOR, AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. [*839*] X. April 14, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 14 1911*] Mr. Jas. A. Himmel, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 141 Haight Street, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 8th instant received and contents noted. In connection with the matter of organizing the Railroad Postal Clerks, you suggest that you should be authorized to devote your entire time to organization work at the expense of the American Federation of Labor. I beg to thank you for the offer of your services, and appreciate the fact that you would of course be able to accomplish more in the interests of our movement if you were in a position where you could devote your entire time to the work. However, the great question to be considered is the financial condition of the A. F. of L. As a matter of fact, we are at present doing to the very fullest limit of our financial ability in the way of special organization work. I cannot now give you any encouragement that your appointment as salaried organizer would be probable or possible. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*840*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] X. April 14, 1911. Mr. F. E. Triggs, c/o Iowa State College, Ames, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your favor of thee 13th instant has been duly received and contents note. In reply thereto 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, 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 matter, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*841*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. Jos. Maiden, Vice-President, Minnesota State Federation of Labor, 281 Banfii Street, St. Paul Minnesota. Your favor of the 11th is received and contents noted. I am sending you under separate cover 150 copies of the leaflet Economic Demands, as per your request. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*842*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant is received, and under separate cover two copies of "Shop Management" by Frederick W. Taylor, for which you will please accept my thanks. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*843*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] M April 14, 1911. Mr. Eugene A. [Overly?], Secretary, [?] and Labor Council, 2116 14th Ave., N. Nashville, Tennessee. Your favor of the 10th instant is at hand, in which you request that an organizer be sent to Clarksville and around Nashville, as much good could be done. I very much regret that we can not comply with your request, but we are doing everything we are able to do along the line of special organization work, with the hands at our command. [?] organizers in the field are engaged in important work in other sections of the country, and at the present time we are unable to make new appointments. Note, however, will be made of your request and if found possible in the near future to comply therewith will be glad to do so. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*844*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. Thomas Reece, 118-122 Strand, [?] [?] London, England. Dear Sir: Your favor of March 30th is at hand, with enclosed article for the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I am sending to you herein [?] international Money Order fir $3.00: also bland receipt which kindly [?] and return. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*845*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Washington, D. C. April 14, 1911. Mr. G. W. Perkins, Monon Building Chicago, Ill. May first, eighteen eighty-six -- nineteen hundred eleven, the silver anniversary of the establishment of the eight hour work [?] throughout the jurisdiction of the Cigar Makers' International Union of America. Permit me to extend congratulation on the magnificent results of that most potential measure inaugurated twenty five years ago. Yours fraternally, SAMUEL GOMPERS First Vice-President. COLLECT. NIGHT LETTER GRAM April 14, 1911. [*COPIED APR 14, 1911*] Mr. G. M. Rynerson, 270 1/2 Adler St., Room 304, Portland, Oregon. Telegram received. Organizer Young ha been assigned an itinerary which it is necessary for him to carry out. When that is complete will endeavor have him return to Portland. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge of A. F. of L.[*846*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] M April 14, 1911. Mr. Thomas Robinson, P. O. Box 108, Portland, Oregon. Dear Sir and Brother: We are in receipt of a letter from Secretary William [McAfee?], of the Oregon State Federation of Labor, in which he recommends your appointment as volunteer organizer for Marshfield and vicinity. In accordance with this request and recommendation commission will be issued and forwarded to you: also package of literature and documents published by this office which I am sure you will find of assistance to you in this work. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. [*847*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] M April 14, 1911. Mr. Peter M Christesom, Secretary, Trades and Labor Council, 417 I. O. O. F. Building, Danville, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor or the 11th instant is at hand, in which you state that the Trades and Labor Council recommends the appointment of yourself as volunteer organizer for Danville 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, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*848*] M April 14, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 14 1911*] Mr. E. R. Hesberger, Secretary, Brewery Workers Local No. 303, Boise, Idaho. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor dated February 20th was received here April 13, in which you state that Local No. 303 of the United Brewery Workmen recommends the appointment of [G?]. L. West as volunteer organizer for Boise and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother West 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 form you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*849*] [*COPIED. APR 14 1911*] M April 14, 1911. Mr. Frank Ambach, Secretary, Federated Trades Council, 1156 Willow St., Green Bay, Wisconsin. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is received in which you state that the Trades Council recommends the appointment of Otto Tonne as volunteer organizer for Green Bay and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Tonne 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. Kindly advise if the Trades Council desires Felix Hiermeret and Ernest Bath continued as volunteer organizers. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*850*] COPIED APR 14 1911 M April 14, 1911. Mr. W. F. Whelen, Secretary, Central Trades Council, 612 East Swaysee St,. Marion, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 10th instant is at hand, in which you state that the Central Trades Council recommends the appointment of Orville Clapp as volunteer organizer for Marion and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Clapp 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. Kindly advise if the Trades Council desires Franz Millay to remain on our list as organizer. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*851*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. William Noffke, Secretary Oregon State Federation of Labor. 357 Sixteenth St., Portland, Oregon. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 6th instant is at hand, in which you recommend the appointment of Thomas Robinson as as volunteer organizer for Marshfield and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Robinson 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. The name of [J. J.?] Wheeler will be removed our list as you state he is no longer in the movement, With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours,, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*852*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] X. April 14, 1911 Mr. J. J. Fitzpatrick, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 275 La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant at hand with enclosure. I had not seen copy of the circular letter issued by Mr. Kirbyunder date of March the 29th. I am very glad indeed that you sent it to me and if any similar matter should reach your hands I would like you to send copies to me. I am very much gratified indeed that the news letter is being so appreciatively welcomed by the labor press. It is our intention to send this letter out each week. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*853*] [*COPIED APR 14, 1911*] April 14, 1911. Mr. C. G. Gustafsen, Iowa City, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 11th instant is at hand, in which you request some information on the question "Resolved, That a system of [compulsory?] industrial insurance is desirable in the United States. constitutionally granted." In reply I beg to say that a proposition similar to the above was submitted by one of the delegates at the San Francisco Convention of the American Federation of Labor, but it was rejected. We believe in insurance in the union, and many of our International unions have established a system of benefits in case of act of work, loss of tools, sickness, death, traveling and other benefits and insurance features. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*854*] X. April 14, 1911. [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Hon. George W. Wickersham, Attorney General, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: Please accept my thanks for your courtesy in sending me copy of address which you made at Providence, R. I., at the banquet of the New England Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths' Association. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor[*855*] X. April 14, 1911. [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. R. F. Southall, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Quanah, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the tenth instant received and contents noted. You refer to controversy between the local unions of Carpenters and Teamsters and the action of the Central Body in connection therewith, and then request my advice. In reply I beg to call your attention to Section 9, Article 11, of the Constitution of the A. F. of L. which reads as follows: "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, expect upon the request or consent of the executive officer of the National or International Union affected." The entire dispute between the two local unions is a matter for adjustment on the part of the two national organizations involved. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*856*] X. April 14, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 14 1911*] Mr. Henry W. Hoops, Jr., 331 Orange Road, Montclair, New Jersey. Dear Sir: Your favor of April the 12th received, and I have carefully noted all that you say in regard to the formation of a "Union Labor Party". Without taking up either your or my time in going into this subject at any length, I merely refer to the enclosed printed matter issued by the American Federation of Labor,declaratory of its principles and policy as regards non-partisan political action. However, should I have the opportunity at any time when I am in New York, I should be glad to see you and talk the matter over. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*857*] X. April 14, 1911 [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. Louis Plante, Thetford Mines, Province of Quebec, Canada. Dear Sir: Your favor of March the 23d. which you sent to Second Vice-President Mitchell in New York City, has just reached my hands. You say that you are secretly organizing the men working in the asbestos mines of your locality, and you request some printed matter or circulars which will give you information in regard to the work of the American Federation of Labor, and how you should proceed in further organizing the men in question and making application for charter. We have had some of the circulars issued by the American Federation of Labor printed in the French language, copies of which are enclosed herein. I also enclose Constitution of the A. F. of L. in the English as this is not translated into French. I also enclose blank form of application for charter which should be properly filled and returned to this office, together with the necessary charter fee of Five Dollars and Five Dollars for outfit and supplies, wen the matter will be given prompt attention. Do not fail to state on the back of the charter application the exact line of work in which the applications are engaged. If it be found that they properly come under the jurisdiction of an affiliated national organization, their charter application will be turned over[*858*] Mr. Louis Plante -2- to the secretary of that organization, otherwise the charter will be issued direct by the American Federation of Labor. Hoping to hear from your further, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED APR 14 1911*][*859*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] X. April 14, 1911 Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant at hand and contents noted. Referring to Documents 30 and 39, you say: "I am unable to tell whether it is a protest against the United States massing its troops on the Mexican Border, a protest against existing industrial and economic conditions in Mexico, or some statement which would be an endorsement of the Mexican Revolutionary Party." In reply I beg to advise you that it is practically a protest against the United States massing its troops on the Mexican Border, against existing industrial and economic condition in Mexico, and is also an endorsement of the Mexican Revolutionary Party. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*Please return [?] [?]*][*860*] X. April 14, 1911. [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. P. M. Draper, Secretary, Trades and Labor Congress of the Dominion of Canada, Drawer 515, Ottawa, Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: One of my correspondents in Buffalo just called my attention to the argument in the Dominion Parliament when the eight-hour bill was up for consideration. Would you kindly send me copy of the bill marked personal, and at the same time give me any information [?] [?] in connection therewith as to its present status or likelihood of its passing, etc. Thanking you in advance for your attention to the matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*861*] April 14, 1911. X. [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] April 14, 1911. Mr. J. Butler, Second Vice-President, International Association of Bridge and Structural Iron Workers, 116 E. North St., Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the tenth instant received and contents noted. I thank you for calling to my attention the matter of the eight-hour bill now under consideration by the Dominion Parliament. I am making an inquiry in connection with the matter and may have something to say about it in an early issue of the American Federationist. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*862*] X. April 14, 1911. [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. Chas. H. Sheraton, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 314 West Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 9th instant is at hand and contents noted. You say that you will leave in the course of a few days for the south and while there will attend the convention of the Alabama State Federation of Labor. I will be glad to have you convey to the assembled delegates my fraternal greetings, and to express the earnest hope that the deliberations, discussions and work of the convention may redound not only to the good of the labor movement in Alabama, but of the labor movement in general. I would appreciate it if you would kindly write me a word upon the adjournment of the convention as to any matters of special importance and interest which transpire. With kinds regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*863*] PINK' Washington, D. C., April 14, 1911. [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. Charles E. Adams, President, Cleveland Chamber of Commerce, Cleveland Ohio. A good citizen. A man who does not live for himself alone, one who is concerned in the welfare of his fellows, who will, if necessary make sacrifices to rectify wrongs, to eliminate evils and make every effort for the common uplift; to endeavor by every means within his power to see to it that these principles shall find expression in the laws and in the administration of the affairs of the government of his city and his state and his country. SAMUEL GOMPERS. COLLECT.[*864*] X. April 14, 1911. [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. Carl Legien, S. O. 16, Engel-Ufer 15, Berlin, Germany. Dear Sir and Brother: It is quite some time since I have heard from you or that I have had the chance to write you. I have been so engrossed with my work and duties and responsibilities that I did not get a chance to write you. I noted with some surprise the article in your Correspondensblatt in reference to the two representatives of the National Association of Manufacturers who were on a mission through Germany to gather information upon employers' liability laws and workmen's compensation laws. Mr. James A. Emory is the lawyer of the national Association of Manufacturers, and is the paid lobbyist against any legislation which the American labor movement seeks. Mr. Emory's associate is also a representative of the National Association of Manufacturers, which as you know is antagonistic to organized labor. Mr. James Duncan, the delegate from the A. F. or L. to the Budapest International Secretariat meeting, has not yet finally determined when he is going to leave the United States for Europe, but I think he will leave some time the middle of July. I feel certain that he will visit several cities in Germany, and of course will call upon you in your office at Berlin. You will find him a[*865*] [*COPIED APR 14 1911*] Mr. Carl Legien -2- painstaking, intelligent, earnest representation of organized labor and a most genial companion. I wish you would let me know the exact date of the opening of the meeting at Budapest so that Mr. Duncan may make his arrangement to conform to it. The St. Louis Convention directed the Executive Council to take under advisement the issuance of a weekly news letter and we have inaugurated it. I have sent you one weekly news letter dated April 8th, and will tomorrow send you the one of April 15th and shall continue sending them to you weekly. You will remember that Karl Kautzky in his article attacking me made the statement that the sentences of a year's imprisonment for myself, nine months for John Mitchell, and six months for Frank Morrison, was merely a farce and that there is nothing to it? Well, we have had the very best lawyers in the United States to present and argue our case before the various courts, including the Supreme Court of the United States. As I informed you the argument occupied two days, January 27-29. We have been expecting the court to hand down its decision any Monday, and current rumor has it that the court will render its decision on Monday the 17th. If it does you will likely have some sort of cable information before this letter reaches you. In a letter from our leading lawyer, Judge Parker, he expresses confidence that the court will decide in our favor. In my letter to him in reply I expressed my opinion that he will be disappointed, and I feel that I ought to say that to you. Of course I am hoping for the best, but there is a decided difference between hopes and judgement. I can tell you that at the St. Louis Convention there were very many men who spoke to me to urge me to become a candidate for delegate to the International Secretariat. I was desirous that Mr. Duncan should go, and the additional fact which prompted me not to be a candidate for delegate[*866*] Mr. Carl Legien -3- to Budapest was that I felt that I had no right to take a chance at being elected and then being compelled to serve a term in prison. When the Agenda for the Budapest meeting is printed, I shall appreciate it if you will send me a few copies. Also advise me whether you will issue a form of credential for the delegates. If you do please send one to me. I regret to say that ever since the argument was made in our case in the court, Mrs. Gompers has been very seriously and painfully ill. She has been confined to her bed now more than nine weeks. She is often delirious and during those times her mind wanders and she talks of imprisonment and the tortures which she supposes they are inflicting upon me. Of course, that part of it is simply her mental wandering and the result of her nervous, painful condition. My daughter and Mr. Sullivan are well and join me in the very best wishes to yourself, to Sassanbach, Baumeister and our other friends. I hope to hear from you as early and often as you can make it convenient to write. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*867*] [*COPIED APR 15 1911*] LF April 15, 1911 Mr. S. A. Stratton, Chairman, Entertainment Committee Machinists Local Lodge #174, 610 G St. N. E., Washington. D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is received and contents noted. I beg to thank you for your invitation to attend the banquet to be given under the auspices of Local Lodge #174 on Thursday evening, April 20th at the New Fredonia Hotel. In view of my present engagements I very much doubt the possibility of my being to accept, but in the event that I find later that I can do so, I shall certainly be glad to have the opportunity of meeting and greeting the members of your Lodge. With the best of wishes for an enjoyable evening, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Shall endeavor to attend SG[*868*] LF April 15, 1911 [*COPIED APR 15 1911*] April 15, 1911 Mr. Robert E. Gann, President Alabama State Federation of Labor, Anniston, Alabama Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant is received and contents noted. I beg to assure you of my appreciation of your cordial invitation to attend the Convention of the Alabama State Federation of Labor, which you say meets in Birmingham on April 24th. I should indeed be glad to be in a position to accept, but I regret to say that owing to my engagements here it will not be possible for me to do so. A few days ago I had occasion to write to Organizer Sheraton of the Seamen, who said that he was going South and that he would attend your Convention. I requested him to convey my fraternal greetings to the assembled delegates and officers and to express my sincere good wishes for a successful Convention. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*869*] LF April 15, 1911 [*COPIED APR 15 1911*] Mr. Geo. F. Weston, Labor Editor Galveston Tribune Galveston, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant is received and contents noted. I am exceedingly pleased that our weekly news letter is being so well received. Letters of congratulations reach us from every section of the country. I think the news letter will be very helpful and can but result in much good. It is exceedingly gratifying to me to know that through the Galveston Tribune the news letter is read by every union man in Galveston. Yes, we receive the Galveston Tribune regularly and you can rest assured that if at any time I can avail myself of your kind offer, I shall indeed be glad to do so. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*870*] M April 15, 1911. [*COPIED APR 15 1911*] Mr. John B. Lennon, Treasurer, American Federation of Labor, Bloomington, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Please send Secretary Morrison draft for $3,800, (Three Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars) and hold this as your authority therefor. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*871*] LF April 15, 1911 [*COPIED APR 15 1911*] Mr. W. H. Swift, Organizer 246 Pleasant St., Bridgewater, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is received and contents noted. In reply thereto, I beg to say that the Bricklayers and Masons International Union is thus far not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor, though we hope that in the not distant future affiliation will be brought about. In the meantime, should you succeed in organizing the Bricklayers and Masons, application for charter should be made to Mr. William [?], Secretary, Odd Fellow Building, Indianapolis, Ind. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*872*] [*COPIED APR 15 1911*] Washington, D. C., April 15, 1911. Mr. J. J. Fitzpatrick, 331 So. LaSalle St., Chicago, Ill. Letter received regarding subject amendment Child Labor Law concerning children in theatrical performances. Will be in position in few days to give you definite answer. Suggest Chicago Federation of Labor entrust matter with full power to its executive board. If that course be pursued telegraph me Monday and I shall endeavor to reply definitely. SAMUEL GOMPERS. President American Federation of Labor. Charge A. F. of L.[*873*] [*COPIED APR 15 1911*] April 15, 1911 Dear Mr. Benson, I have just read a most excellent article in the Atlantic Monthly for April, entitled "Nullifying the law by Judicial Interpretation." It seemed to me that you might find it helping in connection with the article you are preparing. Very sincerely yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor Mr. Allen L. Benson c/o Pearson's Magazine, New York City.[*874*] [*COPIED APR 15 1911*] X. April 15, 1911. Mr. Ernest Bohm, Secretary, Central Federated Union, 210 E. 5th St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant to hand. I have read witih keenest interest the substance of the statement made before the executive committee of Central Federation Union, in opposition to the meeting to be held at Cooper Union, April 18, in favor of international peace, and the statement made by you that the consensus of opinion prevails that I should not attend the same. In connection therewith permit me to say that I am astonished that any action should be taken or declaration should be made by any body of organized labor, and particularly the central body of organized labor of New York, against any effort that can in any way be helpful in abolishing international war, and establishing international peace. Organized labor in its earliest history, particularly in the United States, has declared in favor of arbitration of international disputes, and by all means the abolition of international war. The conventions of the American Federation of Labor have since its beginning so declared. Indeed it is inconceivable that workmen organized in unions could possibly take any other position, for they themselves must bear the burden. At the Toronto Convention of the A. F. of L. a resolution[*875*] Mr. Ernest Bohm -2- was introduced by two delegates (resolution #24) and because the committee failed to make a comprehensive favorable report upon it, the resolution was recommitted. Later the committee reported the resolution in amplified form and it was unanimously adopted. For convenience I quote the resolution to you as adopted by the convention: "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 fall of adjustment through diplomatic channels. War which forces man to kill his fellow-man, way 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 principals 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 administration of the affairs of the nations, thereby lessening the taxation and adding to the comfort of the wage-earner. We further urge that any increase of revenue over the just needs of honest administration be applied to the payment of the national debt." That is the last, unanimously adopted, declaration of organized labor of America upon this subject. It voices the earnest, honest sentiment that men shall not be butchered in war: that men shall learn to love rather than to hate each other; regardless of the fact that they happen to have been born in different countries. It is a protest against the burdening of the toilers with taxation for war, instead of for education for the pursuits of peace, and for a higher concept of common brotherhood. I enclose to you herein a copy of a letter which I have just written to Mr. W. H. Short, upon the subject of abolition of international war and the establishment of international arbitration . I request that it be considered in connection with, and made part of this letter to you.[*876*] Mr. Ernest Bohm --3-- Out of respect for what you say is the concensus of opinion which prevails that I should not attend the meeting. I have concluded to acquiesce to that opinion. I do so, however, protesting to the New York Central Federated Union, and through it to the great rank and file of the toilers, [for the fact that] inasmuch as their lives and their interests have not been given the consideration this momentous question deserves. When earnest active men in the labor movement of our country, men who love their fellows here and elsewhere, can be denied the right to aid in the effort to safeguard humanity against brutality and the abolition of war, we have reached the point of a danger line in the very heart, life and spirit of the labor movement. I feel confident that the future will demonstrate beyond a doubt that a grave error has been committed by the organized labor movement of New York in the position taken upon this Cooper Union meeting. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*877*] X. April 15, 1911. Mr. W. H. Short, Secretary, New York Peace Society, 507 5th Avenue, New York City. [*COPIED. Apr 15 1911*] My dear Sir: Circumstances have arisen of which you know, and to which I do not care here to refer, but which made it practically impossible for me to be at the mass meeting to be held at Cooper Union on Tuesday evening, April 18th. I regret this very much, for I should like to have in person been present and to address the assemblage upon the subject of International Peace, its necessity and humanity. The American labor movement, like the labor movement of all the world, stands committed to the substitution of mediation, conciliation, and arbitration for international war. It is not a new thought [that]with the men of labor, it is one of early protest and earnest promulgation and agitation. One of my most interesting experiences when attending the Congress of the international labor movement at Paris, in 1908, was a monster mass meeting at which the representatives of organized workers of their respective countries delivered addresses in their own languages, deprecating war, urging international arbitration, and the establishment of fraternity among the men of all countries. It was my pleasure on that occasion to speak on behalf of the workers of America.878 Mr. W. H. Short -2- Quite apart from the altruistic and humane sentiments which the workingmen share with others in the effort to abolish the arbitrament of international disputes by resort to war, the workingmen recognize that, though others may fall, the brunt of war is borne by them, not only upon the field of battle itself, but in bearing the bu[v]rdens which war thereafter entails. Of all the people who suffer from war, the toilers are most intensely interested. They are the great burden bearers of its resultant horrors and sufferings. It is, therefore, not difficult to discern why they have from their first gatherings and at almost every gathering thereafter committed themselves unalterably and vitally to the abolition of war, and, through a duly constituted international court of arbitration, the adjudication of all international contentions which cannot be settled through the ordinary channels of conciliation and diplomacy. War is the practice of the most consummate skill in the art of destruction - destruction of human life and human product. Peace affords the opportunity to develop the best that is in man, both productive and constructive. It is the noblest attribute of men's duty to man, the world over. It is a travesty upon intelligence to assert that men trained in the art of, and organized for war and destruction, make for peace. Incidentally, in every occupation or profession an individual may see the wrong that may be in it and protest against the tendency, but the men who have given either their whole lives or many years thereof to the study of the art of war must be expected to hope and work and bend every effort for the creation of an opportunity by which they can bring their art and profession into practice. It is as unthinkable for financiers to long exist without money, doctors without patients, lawyers without clients, wage- 879 Mr. W. H. Short -3- earners without work, as soldiers without war. If we hope to reach the time when wars among the nations shall be no more, its consummation and the efforts toward its attainment must be made, not by those who are trained in the profession of the soldier nor by those who bind their faith to his influence for peace, but by the men who love peace for the sake of peace and for the sake of humanity. The building by Great Britain of her first Dreadnonght I regarded as the monumental blunder of this generation. England has been known for many generations as "perfidious Albion." Her power she used like a giant and a brute; but side by side with the growing intelligence of the people of our country, the people of England, as reflected in her ministry and government, took on a more humane view of power - to possess power and to use it gently; and her progress and influence, side by side with the progress and influence of the people and the government the United States for universal peace, permeates over the nations of the earth. It was the building of the first Dreadnought that set the world by the ears again to consider what could and should be done by each nation in order to build Dreadnoughts for themselves. And now we do not know which counry will build more Dreadnoughts. There is much for people, for the peace and the safety of the peoples of the countries of the world, to dread from those Dreadnoughts. We want peace as a substitute for war, and in the last analysis arbitration to determine the justice and the right between nations. In addition to the immediate results of a war (wholesale killing) there is one element to which seldom any attention is given. War is an interruption of the natural progress of the people in attending to their own welfare. It is an interruption of the orderly 880 Mr. W. H. Short -4- development of the spirit of unselfish service to our fellows. It is an interruption of the best concept of altruism and good fellowship and good will. Every war that has come upon the people of the nations has retarded the spirit of progress and kindness. Instead of the enormous expenditure for arsenals and armories, battle ships and navy yards, we would have them devoted to schoolrooms, colleges and universities; to university extensions, manual training and technology; to make parks and playgrounds, air spaces, breathing places; to weed out misery and poverty and stamp out their [a]ill-begotten child, the great white plague which is ravaging so many of the masses of our people. We would have our people taught the arts and sciences, to be of service, to teach them love and good will, the love of the good, the true, the beautiful, and the useful. "Were half the power that fills the world with terror, "Were half the wealth bestowed on camps and courts "Given to redeem the human mind from error, "There were no need of arsenals and forts.' While it may not be a practical proposition to ask for immediate disarmanent of all countries, the time and the intelligence of our people surely demand that the extraordinary increase in the armed naval and military forces be limited and restricted rather than expended and extended. We cannot continue to increase the enormous burden and expense. We must call a halt sometime. Wh y not now. We welcomed the establishment of the International Court at the Hague and entertained the hope that its benign influences may be extended and make for universal peace. We recognize that in the last analysis, and in order to prevent any reaction that may lead to greater and more repeated wars and bloodshed, the success for international peace by arbitration must come from higher intelligence and a better conception of the sacredness of human life. In the 881 Mr. W. H. Short -5- broad domain of human activity there is no force so potent and which will be so powerful to establish and maintain international peace and human brotherhood as the fraternization of the workers of the world in the international labor movement. Labor sincerely declares that the time must come, and come soon when the world will recognize that peace is as essential to the full development of industry, to commercial and civilized life, as is air to human life. In all civilized countries there is an earnest effort afoot among the people for rational development along evolutionary lines to solve the material, political, moral, and social problems confronting them. These must no longer be retarded or interrupted by brutal wars -- wars which regard the white flag of purity and peace as the manifestation of the "yellow streak" of cowardice in the make-up of noble and high-minded and humane people. May we not look forward to the time, have we not the right to hope that all other means failing, the wage-earners of the world will be so thoroughly organized and will understand their interests and their rights so well that they will refuse to permit themselves to be arrayed against their brother workmen of another country for the purpose of furthering the machinations of tyrants, whether political or commercial? The movement of labor makes for the fraternity of man, and the peace of the peoples of the nations of the earth. The organization of the toiling masses in the several countries tends to the recognition of the fact that their interests are identical, not inimical; that we have the same or very nearly the same contest for the establishment of a higher conception of human rights and that in the same proportion as our fellow workers shall organize, unite and federate, shall we not only help to further public opinion, but largely constitute that public opinion by the 882 Mr. W. H. Short -6- the very unity [??]and the common polity which guide us. Organized labor stands for peace, industrial as well as international, carping critics to the contrary notwithstanding. We want International Peace, all mankind yearns for it, humanity demands it. In our day there is no reason why international disputes shall not be adjusted by a policy of conciliation and arbitration. We should and shall throw the weight of our influence and power in the effort to establish this means to avoid armed conflict, but if those in power wantonly seek to plunge their people into war, then the voice of the masses must be heard in emphatic and determined protest. Bespeaking for the movement of universal peace every success, I have the honor to remain. Yours very truly, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*883*] X. April 15, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 15 1911*] Mr. W. F. Houk, Commissioner of Labor, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 12th instant to hand and contents noted with a great deal of interest. President Howley has been here and has discussed with me the subject matter which formed the correspondence between us. Having heard but one side of the matter, it would be decidedly unfair for me at this time to express a definite judgment. When opportunity affords, I shall make an investigation, or cause one to be made, wherein the facts may be ascertained and the blame placed where it should belong, or perhaps better still, to reconcile the forces of organized labor and bring about a united movement in the interest of the workers of Minnesota. Again thanking you for your letter, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*884*] X. April 15, 1911. Mr. G. H. Becker, Secretary, Minnesota State Examining Board of Barbers, [*COPIED. APR 15 1911*] 10 East Ninth Street, St. Paul, Minn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant to hand and contents noted, with a great deal of interest. President Howley has been here and has discussed with me the subject matter which formed the correspondence between us. Having heard but one side of the matter, it would be decidedly unfair for me at this time to express a definite judgment. When opportunity affords, I shall make an investigation, or cause one to be made, wherein the facts may be ascertained and the blame placed where it should belong, or perhaps better still, to reconcile the forces of organized labor and bring about a united movement in the interest of the workers of Minnesota. Again thanking you for your letter, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor[*885*] April 15, 1911 Mr. George Bechtold, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Foundry Employes. 2005. Broadway, St., Louis, Mo. [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 13th inst. which reached here to-day and to say to you that he hopes to be able to write you some time next week. At present he has a number of important conferences, editorial work on the American Federationist, etc., as will prevent his taking up the matter about which you write at present. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*886*] April 15, 1911 [*COPIED. APR 15 1911*] Mr. David Kreyling Secretary, Central Trades and Labor Union, 3535 Pine Street, St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 12th instant, which reached here today, and to say to you that he hopes to be able to write you some time next week. At present he has a number of important conferences, editorial work on the American Federationist, etc., as will prevent his taking up the matter about which you write at present. Very truly yours, R Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*887*] [*COPIED. APR 17 1911*] X. April 17, 1911. Mrs. Marion Webster, President, Miss Dagmar J. Nielsen, Secretary. Stenographers, Typewriters, Bookkeepers and Assistants Association, No. 11773, Washington, D. C. Dear Mrs. Webster and Miss Nielsen: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your joint letters of the seventh instant, which will receive his attention at the first opportunity. Very truly yours, R Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*888*] April 17, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 17 1911*] Mr. Charles R. Case, President, Washington State Federation of Labor, 1518 16th Ave., North, Seattle, Wash. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of April the 11th, together with copies of the several laws just passed by the Washington State Legislature. He is deeply interested in your report and the matter you send him, all of which will be of value and assistance to him. He hopes to be able to write you personally in regard to the matter at a later date, but just at present his time is so fully engrossed with conferences, legislative work, committee meetings, etc., as to prevent his doing so. He will be pleased to hear from you again whenever convient. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*889*] X. April 17, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 17 1911*] Mr. R. S. Greer, Vice-President, Texas State Federation of Labor, 1514 R. R. Ave., Beaument, Texas. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of April the 13th with clippings, for which you will please accept his thanks. The information you give will be of value and assistance to him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*890*] X. April 17, 1918. [*COPIED. APR 17 1911*] Ron. Albert Davis, Home of Representatives, Harrisburg, Pa. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to thank you for your favor of April the tenth, in which you by request of Mr. J. J. McLaughlin, enclose copy of House Bill #400. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*891*] X. April 17, 1911. Mr. T.V. O'Connor, President, International Longshoreman's Association, 1004 Mutual Life Bldg., Buffalo, New York. [*COPIED. April 17 1911*] Dear Sir: Your favor of April the tenth addressed to President Gompers was received here April the eleventh. It has been held awaiting his personal attention. He has been so overwhelmed with conferences, committee meetings, legislative work incident to the extra session of Congress, editorial work on the American Federationist, etc., that he has not yet been able to reach your letter, as well as a number of other communications that have been held for his personal attention, and hence I am making this acknowledgement of its receipt. I hope that he will be able to take up his correspendence more fully in the course of the next week. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*892*] X. April 17, 1911. Mr. C. T. Dolan, Secretary, International Broom and Whisk Makers' Union, 3359 Lincoln Ave., Chicago, Ill. [*COPIED. APR 17 1911*] Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the third instant, in regard to the lockout in which your organization is involved, and to ask if you can obtain for him copy of the notices which you state were posted in the factories, to the effect that the asked advance would not be granted, and that the factories were closed to union men from that date. He would write to you personally but he is so overwhelmed with pressing and important work, which for the present requires his undivided attention. He will be glad to receive the copy of the notice, when he will take the matter up with you personally. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*893*] X. April 17, 1911. Mr. R .J. Reeves, Secretary, General Executive Board, Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes of America, 603 Hodges Block, Detroit, Mich . [*COPIED. APR 17 1911*] Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favors of the fifth and sixth instants, and to thank you for the information you give therein in regard to the mail box on street cars. He would write you personally but he is so overwhelmed with pressing and important work which for the present requires his undivided attention. He will be glad to hear from you whenever convenient. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*894*] X. April 17, 1911. COPIED. APR 17 1911 Mr. G. V. Woodman, c/o Union Banner, Fort Worth, Texas. [*COPIED APR 17 1911*] Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the fifth instant and to thank you for the information you give therein in regard to the organization of the employes at the brick plant at Fort Worth, and also as to the result of the recent election. He would write to you personally but he is so overwhelmed with pressing and important work which for the present requires his undivided attention. He will be glad to hear from you whenever convenient. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*895*] X. April 17, 1911. Mr. A. B. Garretson, President, Order of Railway Conductors of America, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. [*COPIED. APR 17 1911*] Dear Sir: Your favor of April the ninth addressed to President Gompers, was received here April the twelfth. It has been held awaiting his personal attention. He has been so overwhelmed with conferences, committee meetings, legislative work incident to the extra session of Congress, editorial work on the American Federationist, etc., that he has not yet been able to reach your letter, as well as a number of other communications that have been held for his personal attention, and hence I am making this acknowledgement of its receipt. I hope that he will be able to take up his correspondence more fully in the course of the next week. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*896*] X. April 17, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 17 1911*] Mr. A. M. Huddell, Hoisting and Portable Engineers' Union No. 4, 386 Harrison Ave., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the ninth instant, which has been held awaiting his personal attention. He has been so overwhelmed with conferences, committee meetings, legislative work incident to the extra session of Congress, editorial work on the American Federationist, etc., that he has not yet been able to reach your letter, as well as a number of other communications that have been held for his personal attention, and hence I am making this acknowledgement of its receipt. I hope that he will be able to take up his correspondence more fully in the course of the next week. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. [*897*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] LF April 17, 1911 Mr. G. Wilkinson, Secretary Trades and Labor Assembly, 140 Plant Ave., Waycross, Georgia. Dear Sir and Brother: On February 8th I wrote you conveying to you the action of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in the matter of the protest against the delegate from the Women's Union Label League being allowed to vote in the proceedings of your body. I have not yet received any reply to that letter and for convenience I beg to quote it herein. It is as follows: Mr. O. Wilkinson, Secretary Feb. 8, 1911. Trades and Labor Assembly, 140 Plant Ave., Waycross, Georgia. Dear Sir and Brother: On October 18, 1910, replying to a letter from you dated October 17th, I advised you that the Women's Union Label League, under the laws of the American Federation of Labor should not be allowed representation in your central body except by a fraternal delegate, such a delegate not being entitled to a vote upon any proposition under consideration by the central body. On January 2nd I was advised by Organizer Lewis that your central body had disregarded the ruling of the President of the American Federation of Labor in this case and had accepted the delegates from the Women's Union Label League on the same basis as that accorded to local unions of affiliated national and international unions. On January 15th the undersigned was advised by the officers of the Machinists Local Lodge #552 that they had withdrawn their delegate from your central body until such time as the ruling of the President of the American Federation of Labor had been complied with.898 Mr. C. Wilkinson - 2 At the meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor held in this city January 16-27 I reported the entire matter to my colleagues and placed before them all of the correspondence in the case. I was authorized to advise you that the decision and ruling of the President of the A.F of L. is sustained by the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. and that the Trades and Labor Assembly of Waycross is directed to comply with the same. You will therefore please read this letter at the next meeting of your central body to the end that action be taken in conformity therewith. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours (Signed) Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor." I am now in receipt of a letter from Secretary Skemp of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America in which he encloses letter from his Local in Waycross, stating that it has withdrawn its delegates from your central body by reason of the fact that five representatives of the Women's Union Label League have been allowed a seat in the central body and to vote on all questions before that body. You will, therefore, please let me hear from you in regard to this matter at your earliest possible convenience so that I may be in a position to know what further action to take in conformity with the constitution of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*899*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] LF April 17,1911 Mr. C. M. Kitzmiller, Secretary Bemis West Virginia Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 12th is received, in which you continue our correspondence in regard to the men you represent becoming affiliated with the A. F. of L. You say that while the proposition to apply at once to the A. F. of L. for charter was favorably received, it was decided that further information should be secured regarding the affiliation before definite action is taken. You then desire to know that if charter should be granted to you and your colleagues as a lumber organization, to be known as American Brotherhood of Lumbermen, would you have the right to extend organization work and grant charters to locals you might organize? You desire to know further that if in making application for charter under the above name and title, jurisdiction would be granted you over "all American workmen in and around saw and planing mills, lumber yards and woods, this to include log trainmen, trackmen, camp cooks, commissary employes, lumber inspectors and graders, in fact all workers connected with the lumber industry". Let me say first that it is exceedingly doubtful900 Mr. C. H. Kitzmiller --2 that the Executive Council would issue a charter to your body as a national organization, as it is against the policy of the American Federation of Labor to grant charters to national organizations unless the organization making application represents a fair proportion of the organized workmen trade. Then again, there is already affiliated to the A. F. of L. the International Brotherhood of Woodsmen and Saw Mill Workers, A. Livingston, Secretary, with headquarters at Lothrop, Montana. It would be in direct violation of the laws, principles, policy and practice of the A. F. of L. to issue charter to any organization whose jurisdiction conflicts with an existing organization unless the latter gives the consent thereto. I would, therefore, again suggest that you make formal application for charter to the A. F. of L. as a local union, when the charter will either be granted by the A. F. of L. or the application be turned over to the national organization. Hoping to hear from you further, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*901*] LF April 17, 1911 Mr. James Duncan, Secretary The Granite Cutters' International Association of America, Hancock Building, Quincy, Mass. [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: On March 25th I wrote you as follows: "The Secretary of the Central Labor Union of Quincy, writes that he has been instructed to request that Organizer Frank McCarthy be sent to Quincy, as it is felt there that he is more familiar with conditions in that locality than anyone else. I have not yet made any reply to Secretary Nelson's letter, and would be glad to have your advice in the premises. Organizer McCarthy, as you know, is not upon the regular salaried list of the A. F. of L., and it is about all we can do to meet the salary and expenses of the men already at work." I presume you have overlooked the above in the pressure of other matters, but as I have not as yet made any reply to the Secretary of the Central Labor Union of Quincy I thought it would be better to write you as a reminder and to request your advice as to the above. Hoping to receive your early reply and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.902 X. April 17,1911. Hon. Robert L. Taylor, United States Senate, Washington, D. C. COPIED APR 18 1911 My dear Senator: I was very deeply interested on Thursday evening in the masterful address which you made at the Scottish Rite Masons' dinner. There was a brief report of your address in the Post Friday morning. I would like very much indeed to have your entire speech, and if you have the manuscript of it I would appreciate it greatly if you will have copy sent to me. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy, I am, very truly yours. President, American Federation of Labor.[*903*] LF April 17, 1911 Mr. F. J. McNulty, President International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers of America Pierik Bldg., Springfield, Ill. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which I have just received from the Secretary of the Arkansas State Federation of Labor, in which he states that the two local unions of Electrical Workers in Little Rock have united under the national organization unaffiliated to the American Federation of Labor. It seemed to me that this information should be conveyed to you and hence the enclosed. I should like to hear from you in regard thereto. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor Enclosure:[*904*] LF Copy. THE ARKANSAS STATE FEDERATION OF LABOR. Little Rock, Ark. Apr. 12, 1911 Mr. Samuel Gompers Washington, D. C. [*COPIED. ???*] Dear Sir and Brother: The McNulty-Collins Electrical Workers of this city have united with the Reid-Murphy faction. They are also about to organize the linemen in the same faction. What should be the relation of our Central Bodies in this city to these two organizations, also please inform me if any definite arrangements have been made to unite the factions. Fraternally yours, (Signed) L. H. Moore Secretary-Treasurer Box 167 Little Rock, Ark.905 COPIED. APR 19 1911 LF April 17, 1911 Mr. Peter W. Collins, Secretary International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers of America Pierik Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which I have just received from the Secretary of the Arkansas State Federation of Labor, in which he states that the two local unions of Electrical Workers in Little Rock have united under the national organization unaffiliated to the American Federation of Labor. It seemed to me that this information should be conveyed to you and hence the enclosed. I should like to hear from you in regard thereto. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor Enclosure:[*906*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] X. April 15, 1911. Mme. Rosa Gompers, Audrassystrasse 20, Budapest, Hungary. My dear Madam: Your exceedingly interesting letter of March 24th came duly to hand and contents noted. I want to assure you that it was gratifying to hear from you and to have your solicitous inquiry regarding my family and myself: I note what you say regarding the information which was conveyed to you that I was to come to Budapest during the coming summer to attend the labor conference which is to be held there, and I was especially pleased to note your expression of hope that my course would wend its way to Budapest that we might have the opportunity of meeting, and I sincerely wish that that could be, but we shall both be disappointed upon that score, at least for this summer. The American Federation of Labor will be represented, but I am not the chosen delegate. At the convention of our Federation last November, it was the general desire that I should go as the delegate to Budapest, but I felt that I had no right to allow the delegates to elect me for several reasons, but particularly because our case is pending before the highest court in our country, and I expect shortly the decision will be handed down, probably before this letter reaches you, and I do not anticipate a favorable decision. The struggle of the people for right, four 907 Mme. Rosa Gomperz -2- justice, for freedom, is not ended, and in the past some men have been compelled to suffer and I suppose others will have to suffer in the present, and in the future. I would be distressed beyond expression if you for a moment entertained the idea that anything which I have said or done reflects upon the labor movement or myself in any discreditable manner. Whatever comes, I hope you will believe that I have tried and am trying to do my level best to be helpful to the working people of our county and of our time and for the future. Now in regard to Dr. Freidenthal, I should say that I did receive a letter from him and consulted my father and other members of my family regarding some historic incidents, but as you know, I am so thoroughly engrossed in my work and my duties, that it is not an easy matter to devote time from that to personal considerations, even matters of personal interests. I gathered some of this matter, when I was greatly pleased to receive a copy of the book, "The History of the Gomperz Family". Of course, now it is entirely too late to give that matter consideration for the book is already printed, and I have read it with deep interest and concern, and pride in the splendid achievements of members of the family of which I am firmly convinced we are a branch. It is additionally gratifying to me to learn that you have entirely recovered your health and are in good spirits. Certainly your autograph letter, as well as its content and the manner of expression, demonstrate a vigorous character, kindly disposition, and mental alertness. I regret exceedingly to be compelled to say that my wife, Mrs. Gompers, has been and is still very seriously and painfully ill. She heard the argument in our case, and knowing that this was the last word that could be said in my behalf, she is suffering greatly. 908 Mme. Rosa Gompers -3- It is her fears as to what may come to me. I regret that she does not look upon this matter as philosophically as I do, understanding that if the worst should happen, there is no reflection to my discredit, or dishonor. That for which I am contending will be the law of the land in the near future, as sure as the sun rises and sets. Though disappointed at not being able to come to Budapest at this time and to have the pleasure of meeting you, seeing you, and conversing with you, I do hope that you may be spared and enjoy good health and a long life, and that the future may hold in store for us the opportunity of our meeting at some later time. My dear father is living in New York, and I conveyed to him in a letter your kindly greeting and good wishes. Trusting that I may hear from you whenever convenient, and that it may be often, I am, Sincerely and affectionately yours, Sam. Gompers. P.S. In a letter just received from my dear Father he sends his affectionate greetings to you. He is in good health and spirit. S.G.909 [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] LF April 15, 1911 Mr. L. H. Moore, Secretary-Treasurer Box 167, Little Rock, Ark. Arkansas State Federation of Labor. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant is received and contents noted. You say that the two local unions of Electrical Workers in Little Rock have united under the National organization of Electrical Workers unaffiliated to the American Federation of Labor, that they are now going to organize the linemen and you desire to know what stand the Central Body in Little Rock should take in regard to the matter. I have no alternative than to advise you as directed by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 1, Article XI, which reads: "No Central Labor Union, or any other central body of delegates, shall admit to or retain in their councils delegates from any local organization that owes its allegiance to any other body, National or International, hostile to any affiliated organization, or that has been suspended or expelled by, or not connected with, a National or International organization of their trade herein affiliated, under penalty of having their charter revoked for violation of their charter, subject to appeal to the next Convention." The officers of the A. F. of L. have no authority to follow any other course than that as set forth by the Constitution 910 Mr. L. H. Moore --2 as above quoted. With kind regards, I remain Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor[*911*] LF April 18,1911 [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. James H. Hatch, President Upholsterers' International Union of America, 159 East 57th St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your favor of March 21st, in which you ask for the names and addresses of the principle European unions of upholsterers, I beg to say that I took the matter up with Mr. W. A. Appleton, Secretary of the General Federation of Trade Unions of England, and am just in receipt of a reply from him giving the following information: National Furnishing Trades Association, Secretary: Alex. Gossip, Moorgate Chambers 72 Finsbury Pavement, London Liverpool Upholsteresses Trade Union, Secretary: Miss M. Gorton, Cocoa Rooms St.Luke's Place, Bold St., Liverpool Amal. Union of Upholsterers of Gt. Britain & Ireland Secretary: L. Leckie, 28 Lady Somerset Road, Highgate Road, London, N. Machester Upholsteresses Association, Secretary: Miss E. Boocock, St.Ann's School, Queen St., Deansgate, Manchester. Upholsterers Trimming Makers Union (London) Secretary: J. H. Morgan, 11 Hillery Road, Walworth, London, S.E. Carpet Planners of the City of Dublin, Secretary, T. Murphy, 41 York St., Dublin, Ireland. [*912*] Mr. James H. Hatch-2 London West End Upholsterers' Trade Society Secretary: J. Sholl, 33, Chesham Buildings, Gosvenor Square, London, W. Trusting the above information will be of assistance to you, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. [???] [??] 1911*][*913*] M April 18, 1911 [*COPIED APR 13 1911*] Mr. Frank [T??t???], Secretary, Machinists Helpers and Laborers ' Union No. 12906 32 Chester St., St. Thomas, Ont. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 11th instant has been duly received and contents noted. You enclose copy of the wage scale and agreement which you say your organization contemplates submitting to the management of the Pere Marquette Railroad, East of the Detroit River, to go into affect May 1st. Before submitting the matter to the Executive Council I wish you would please write me giving me the following information: Are all the men employed in your line of work at the shops on this railroad in St. Thomas, members of this organization? Are all the employes of these railroad shops in St. Thomas, in other line of work, members of their respective organizations? Give the names and numbers of these different organizations. Are they also working under a signed agreement with the management of the shops, and if so, when does it expire? Does the wage scale of your organization mainly conform to the wage scales of the other local unions whose members are employed[*914*] F. T. 2. by the same shops? Have your officers conferred with the officers of the other local unions as to the advisability of submitting the scale, and the probability of its being granted by the management of the Company? In fact, I want the fullest and most detailed information in regard to the matter, so we can intelligently place it before my colleagues of the Executive Council. It may not be amiss in connection with the above matter to call your attention to the provisions of Article XIII, copy of which is enclosed herein. Your will observe Section 2, Article XIII of 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 President 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 the Executive Council. Your attention is also called to Section 7, Article XIII which reads as follows:915 F. T. 3. "Any union inaugurating a strike without the approval of the Executive Council shall not receive benefits on account of said strike." Therefore, in view of the provisions of the Constitution as above set forth I would recommend that no action should be taken by your organization until the Executive Council has had the opportunity of considering the matter. Please let me hear from you at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*916*] M April 18, 1911 [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. William F. Kramer, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, 570-585 Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Ionia, Michigan , in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city No. [?86], is not represented in the Trades and Labor Assembly. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*917*] M April 18, 1911 [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] Mr. George Preston, Secretary, International Association of Machinists, McGill Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Ionia, Michigan , in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city No. 486, is not represented in the Trades and Labor Assembly. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a Local Union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Body, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*918*] M April 18, 1911 [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. Lee Anderson, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, 408 Johnson St., Ionia, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant is at hand, and in accordance with the information contained therein, I am by this mail writing to the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths and the International Association of Machinists, requesting them to urge upon their locals the advisability and necessity of being represented in the Trades and Labor Assembly as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article XI. Trusting this may have the desired result, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*919*] M April 18, 1911. COPIED APR 18 1911 Mr. Delbert C. McKinney, Morningside College, Sioux City, Iowa. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*} Dear Sir: Your favor of the 12th instant is at hand, in which you state you are to debate the following question: "That all labor and trade unions should be compelled to incorporate." As to the question of the incorporation of trade unions let me say that, it is not the object or desire of the labor unions to become incorporated. If a natural incorporation law was urged before Congress, and trade unions were not exempted from the operation of that law, we would use every means at our command to try and defeat. Such a law would undoubtedly work injury to the trade unions of the country if they were compelled to incorporate under it. I might add further that the subject of the incorporation of trade unions has not been taken up at any great length in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST: however, it has been touched upon at different times. As a matter of fact the question has only been seriously recommended by some faddists and some opponents of labor organizations within the recent past. Just a few years ago we had to meet these same people when they advocated compulsory arbitration - which thanks to our lucky stars has been given its proper justice - and now this[*920*] D. C. McK. 2. notion of compulsory incorporation. In my reports to the annual conventions of the American Federation of Labor for 1901, 1902, 1903 and 1904, I dwelt at considerably length upon the subject of the incorporation of trade unions. I am sending these reports to you under separate cover, and think if you will refer to them, they will throw some light upon the subject, and particularly as to the attitude of organized labor. I would also call your attention especially to pages 79 and 103 of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST of February 1903, being an article by Hon. Clarence S. Darrow entitled "Should Trade Unions Incorporate?" and an extract from a speech delivered by the undersigned in a debate with the Hon. Louis Brandeis before the Economic Club of Boston. This magazine is also being sent to you under separate cover. Trusting you may find the above helpful, I am, Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*921*] M April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. John J. Pfeiffer, Secretary, Int'l United Brotherhood of Leather Workers on Horse Goods, 209-210 Postal Building, Kansas City, Missouri. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant, enclosing commission of E. J. Baker, has been received, in which you state that he is no longer connected officially with your Brotherhood, and will, therefore, have no use for the commission. In accordance with this information Mr. Baker's name will be removed from our list. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*922*] M April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. D. E. Waldie, Organizer, Box 471, Great Falls, Montana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your undated favor received, and in reply I beg to say that your commission was renewed and forwarded to you the date of its expiration, April 15th. Kindly advise if you do not receive same. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*923*] M April 17, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. John McLennan, President, Colorado State Federation of Labor, 430-432 Charles Building, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand, and beg to say that commission was issued and forward to Brother Quince Hutton on April 7, as volunteer organizer for Denver and vicinity. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*924*] X. April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Ide Brothers Company, P. O. Box 68, Albany, New York. Gentlemen: Replying to your favor of April the 14th, I beg to enclose to you herein list of labor press and official trade journals which will give you the addresses of the several journals which you desire. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor, EDITOR, AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.[*925*] X. Apr. 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. A. L. McFadden, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Goldfield, Nevada. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the tenth instant is at hand, in which you say that in your report as organizer for March you mention some of the legislative measures in the interest of labor which the Nevada State Legislature had passed. You say that since sending in this report you learned that the Governor has vetoed everyone of these measures. I wish you would get exact information as to this at your earliest convenience, and let me have it. Thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*926*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. Percy White, Boston Post, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: Replying to your telegram of the 17th instant, I beg to refer you to my article in the April issue of the American Federationist, entitled "The Miracles of Efficiency". I am sending copy of this issue to you under separate cover, and I think the article in question will give you full data to use in the preparation of your story on the scientific management of labor. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*927*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. William H. Frazier, Secretary, International Seamen's Union of America, 1 1/2 A Lewis Street, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Will you kindly forward me for the files of this office, a copy of the proceedings of your 1909 Convention, held in New York City. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*928*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Avenue, New York City. Dear Sir: In compliance with your request of April the 14th, I am writing to the International Seamen's Union, asking them for a copy of their proceedings of the convention held in New York City, and will forward same to you as soon as received here. As we have no other copy please return it for the records of our office, in a package marked personal. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*929*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. William Dobson, Secretary, Bricklayers and Masons International Union, Odd Fellow Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter just received from Organizer W. H. Swift, of Bridgewater, Massachusetts, he advises me that he has been endeavoring to organize the Bricklayers and Masons of that locality. I advised him in reply that the Bricklayers and Masons' International Union as yet is not affiliated to the A. F. of L., and that if he succeeded in organizing them he should make application for charter to you. You will no doubt hear from him in due course of time. In the meanwhile, should you care to communicate with him, he can be reached at 246 Pleasant Street, Bridgewater, Mass. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*930*] Y. April 17, 1911. Mr. H. S. Yonker, Supervisor of Practice Teaching, State Normal School, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Dear Sir: I have your favor of April 10, in which you inform me that you are investigating the relation of education and wage earning power, and that you "would like very much to get data on the question of the amount of skilled labor is idle on the average compared with unskilled labor, etc." You also inform me that you have applied to the United States Labor Bureau and the Labor Bureau of Massachusetts and have so far been unable to get any data on this subject. The subject you make inquiry concerning is in fact a complex one, but I find after due examination that the United States Census Bureau in its report on "Statistics of Occupations," issued in the year 1904 from the data which was collected for the 12th Census for the year 1900, gives in substance, a concrete answer to your inquiry. I quote from the same in order that you may have this information early, but I also suggest that you[*931*] Mr. H. S. Yonker----2 examine this volume analytically in order to get more information on the subject you are now studying. In manufacturing and mechanical pursuits there were 1,631,057 males and 294,346 females, or a total of 1,925,403 persons, out of employment during 1900 for a period of from one to twelve months. In trade and transportation there were 444,278 males and 55,907 females, or a total of 500,185 persons unemployed during the year 1900 for a period of from one to twelve months. In domestic and personal service there were 1,209,787 males and 358,334 females, or a total of 1,568,121 persons out of employment in the year 1900 for a period of from one to twelve months. In the professional service there were 111,547 males and 219,019 females, or a total of 330,566 persons out of employment during the year 1900 for a period of from one to twelve months. In the agricultural pursuits there were 1,830,803 males and 313,886 females, or a total of 2,144,689 persons out of employment during the year 1900 from one to twelve months. This gives a grand total in all of the separate divisions of industry as above noted, of 5,227,472 males and 1,241,492 females, or a total of 6,468,964 persons of all occupations who were out of employment during the year 1900 in the United States for a period of from one to twelve months. I furnish you herewith the totals, tabulated, of persons as engaged in the occupations above mentioned, so that you can, if you choose, work out your own percentages: [*932*] Mr. H. S. Yonker----3. Agricultural pursuits, 10,381,765, both sexes. Professional service, 1,258,538, both sexes. Domestic and Personal Service, 5,580,657, both sexes. Trade and transportation, 4,766,964, both sexes. Manufacturing and mechanical pursuits, 7,085,309, both sexes. The 26th Annual Report of the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the State of New York for the year 1908, issued April 14, 1909, gives the following percentage of unemployed members of representative trade unions in that state at the end of each month, for the year 1908, as follows: January 36.9 February 37.5 March 37.5 April 33.9 May 32.2 June 30.2 July 26.8 August 24.6 September 24.6 October 23.1 November 21.5 December 28.0 The State of New York publishes no statistics as to the unemployed who are not members of labor organizations. The Bureau of Statistics for the State of Massachusetts, in its last report on employment in that State, dated July, 1910, gives the following per centages of unemployed members of labor organizations for the following periods: Quarter Ending-- March 31, 1908, $17.90 June 30, 1908, 14.41 Sept. 30, 1908, 10.62 Dec. 31, 1908, 13.94 March 31, 1909, 11.42 Quarter Ending-- June 30, 1909, $6.36 Sept. 30, 1909 4.80 Dec. 31, 1909, 9.36 March 31, 1910, 7.06 June 30, 1910, 6.99 I am sending you under separate cover a copy of the "Proceedings of the Conference with the Representatives of Labor, held[*932*] Mr. H.S. Yonker -----4 in the office of the Secretary of Commerce and Labor, February 10-11, 1909." You will observe on pages 21 and 22, and elsewhere, the reference that I made in that conference to the number of unemployed that had been reported to me through the various international unions, and you will observe that these figures compare very generally with the official statistics that I have herein quoted from the 26th Annual Report of the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the State of New York. You will, of course, know that the several tabled heads here given, such as agricultural pursuits, professional services, domestic and personal service, relate to what may be termed "unskilled labor." Under the other heads, trade and transportation, manufacturing and mechanical, the skilled and unskilled trades are not separated in the total figures I quote; but if you will closely examine the authority I quote, you will be readily able to find what part of the unemployed in these two separate lines of industry is composed of skilled and unskilled labor and the number of unemployed in each. All the figures quoted above and those referring to the statement made by me at the February 19th conference have reference only to the periods stated. As to the application of these figures to the immediate present, it is problematical. From the reports reaching my office I am quite confident that there has been a great diminution in the number of the unemployed both in the aggregate and in the percentage.934 Mr. H. S. Yonker ---5. Hoping that this may be of assistance to you in your investigation of "The Problem of the Unemployed," I remain, Yours very truly, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*935*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Z April 18, 1911 Mr. R. E. Woodmansee, Editor, The Illinois Tradesmen, 407 Myers Building, Springfield, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant received and contents noted. It is exceedingly gratifying to us to know that the weekly news letter is so favorably received by the labor press. A number of the labor editors have written to us and they all express themselves as being greatly pleased and that the weekly news letter will fill a long-felt want. It is our desire and intention, as directed by the St. Louis Convention and the Executive Council, to continue this feature regularly. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.936 COPIED. APR 18 1911 Z April 18, 1911. Mr. George D. Dunn, Manager, Tacoma Labor Advocate, Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant received and contents noted. It is exceedingly gratifying to to us to know that the weekly news letter is so favorably received by the labor press. A number of the labor editors have written to us and they all express themselves as being greatly pleased and that the weekly news letter will fill a long-felt want. It is our desire and intention, as directed by the St. Louis convention and the Executive Council to continue this feature regularly. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.937 COPIED. APR 18 1911 Z April 18, 1911. Mr. J. W. Clark, Editor, Grays Harbor Post, Aberdeen, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th instant received and contents noted. It is exceedingly gratifying to us to know that the weekly news letter is so favorably received by the labor press. A number of the labor editors have written to us and they all express themselves as being greatly pleased and that the weekly news letter will a long-felt want. It is our desire and intention, as directed by the St. Louis Convention and the Executive Council, to continue this feature regularly. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.938 COPIED. APR 18 1911 Z April 18, 1911. Mr. J. Bron, "Novy Mir", Kaselap Weekly, 842 Brooms St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th instant has been duly received, and in reply I beg to advise that you have been placed on the exchange list of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, our official monthly publication, and also on the list to receive a weekly news letter sent out by this office to the labor press of the country. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.939 COPIED. APR 18 1911 LF April 18, 1911 Mr. Charles S. Barrett, President The Farmers' Co-operative National Union Union City, Georgia. Dear Sir and Brother: Kindly send me, marked "personal", copies of the official printed proceedings of your conventions for the years 1908, 1909 and 1910; also two sets of amy pamphlets and printed matter which your union sends out. Thanking you in advance for your compliance with the above, and with kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.940 COPIED. APR 18 1911 LF April 18, 1911 Mr. W. A. Appleton, Secretary The General Federation of Trade Unions, 8 Adelphi Terrace, Adam Street, Strand, London, Eng. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 5th instant in which, in compliance with my request, you give the names and addresses of the Upholsterers Union in England, is received and contents noted. Kindly accept my sincere thanks for your kindness in sending this information to me. With best wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.941 COPIED. APR 18 1911 M April 18, 1911. Mr. William G. Smith, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Box 364, Lancaster, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 15th instant to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention in which you state the Central Labor Union recommends the appointment of George Ryan as volunteer organizer for Lancaster and vicinity, in place of Organizer O'Brien, who has removed from Lancaster. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and rec- ommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Broth-Ryan in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of litera- ture and documents published by this office which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representa- tive 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.942 M April 18, 1911. COPIED. APR 18 1911 Mr. H. C. Shroding, Secretary, Trades Council, Latrobe, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant to Secretary Morrison has been brought to my attention, in which you state that the Trades Council recommends the appointment of Frank Buerger as volunteer organizer for Latrobe and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Buerger 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.943 M April 17, 1911. COPIED. APR 18 1911 Mr. Robert R. Hean, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 607 South Duke St., Lancaster, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant is at hand, in which you state the Central Labor Union recommends the appointment of Henry Tillbrook, as volunteer organizer for Lancaster and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Tillbrook in accordance therewith. There will also be forwarded to him a package of litera- ture and documents published by this office which I am sure he will find of assistance in the discharge of his duties as the representa- tive 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.[*944*] April 17, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. William A, Newman, Secretary, Local No. 96 Int'l Assn. of Machinists, 2817 Champaign St., Mattoon, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant is at hand, in which you state that Local No. 96 recommends the appointment of E. W. Johnson as volunteer organizer for Mattoon and vicinity. It affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commission will be issued and forwarded to Brother Johnson 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.[*945*] X. April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. J. P. Egan, Editor, The Toledo Union Leader, 314 Cherry St., Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 15th received and contents noted. You say that you notice in the Fort Wayne Labor Times Herald a story of internal differences in the Indianapolis Central Body, in reference to a letter written by me to the secretary of that Central Body. You then request that I should send you a copy of that letter. I presume you refer to the letter which I wrote to the Central Labor Union under date of March the 25th, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. Further on in your letter you suggest that the A. F. of L. should favor more extended and general campaign of trade unionism or rather extend its press service. I presume that when you wrote your letter you had not in all probability received our weekly news letter. This service was inaugurated on April the 8th, and in conformity with the directions of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L. and the Executive Council. From reports which reach us our weekly news letter is being received generally with great approbation. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.946 Washington, D. C. March 25, 1911. COPIED. ARP 18 1911 Mr. L. A. Barth, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Room 4, Talbott Block, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer Edgar A. Perkins has just written to me advising me of the question which came up before the meeting of your Central Labor Union on March 13, as to the eligibility of a member of a trade union, who also a member of the Woman's Union Label League representing the latter organization as a delegate to your Central Body. For your information I enclosed to you herein copy of Org. Perkins' letter, and in conformity with the request made therein I am now writing you. The question raised his letter is as follows: "Can an active member of a trade union thus represent the Lable League? Has the League any different status in this particular than a federal labor union? Is it not a fact that representation at any stage of the League in any federated body is purely honorary?" In reply let me say that the locals of the Woman's Trade Union Label League can only be represented in affiliated central bodies and state federations of labor by fraternal delegates, that is, delegates not being entitled under the law to a vote upon any matter under discussion. This law applies equally to the Conventions of the American Federation of Labor. The fraternal delegates from the ministerial associations, from the International Woman's Trade Union Label League, from the farmers' organizations, etc., etc., while accorded every courtesy and shown every consideration in the annual conventions of the A. F. of[*947*] Mr. L.A. Barth -2- L. yet are not allowed the privilege of voting upon matters before the house. This question of the delegates from the label leagues being allowed to vote in the central labor union meetings has come up again and again before the central bodies, to all of which I have replied as above. The privilege of a voice in the affairs of central body or in the conventions of the American Federation of Labor by delegates from the National Women's Trade Union Leagues, Women's International Trade Union Label Leagues, Federal Council of the Churches in Christ, American Federation of Catholic Societies, Wage Earners' Suffrage League, American Society of Equity, has its influence and it should rightly have its influence, but the question of finally voting upon matters affecting the vital interests of the workmen, members of the unions, should be left with the delegates from those unions interested or with the membership themselves. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] After all, the fraternal delegates from these organizations are intended to give sympathetic advice and support to the organized labor movement. Therefore, such delegates should have a voice but not a vote nor are they eligible to be elected to any office of the central body, or as a delegate from the central body to the conventions of the State Federations or the conventions of the American Federation of Labor. Indeed, the Constitution of the A.F. of L. prohibits even federal labor unions from electing a member of that body who may at the same time be a member of a local trade union from being a delegate to a central body, state federation, or conventions of the A.F. of L., and quite recently the constitution of the A.F. of L. was amended so as to exclude members of a local trade union from being members of a federal labor union. I quote these facts simply to show you the consistent course pursued by the trade union movement as represented by the American Federation of948 Mr. L. A. Barth --3-- Labor, that in the determination of the vital interests affecting the working people, members of the trade unions must themselves decide by their vote. Then again under the law and practice of the American Federation of Labor no delegate to the central body should be allowed to represent any local union other than the union of his own trade. If a delegate to the central body is filling the office of President, Secretary or holding any other official position in the central body and his term of delegate expires before his term as president or secretary is out, unless the Constitution of the central body explicitly provides otherwise, there is no reason why he should not complete his term as President or Secretary, and be eligible to re-election to such position, but I again repeat that no delegate would be allowed to represent in a central body other than the local of his own trade. I ask that this letter be read at the next regular meeting of your central body. With kind regrets, I am, Fraternally yours, (signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor. 949 COPY. Indianapolis, March 22, 1911. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Dear Sir: At the meeting of the Central Labor Union of this city, held on the night of March 13, the question arose as to the eligibility of a member of a trade union, who was also a member of the Women's Union Label League, representing the latter organization as delegate to the Central Labor Union. The circumstances giving rise to this phase of the discussion is as follows: The President of the Central Labor Union, E.W. McGinnis up to the first of the year was a delegate from Typographical Union No. 1. Under the law of the Central Labor Union the seats of all delegates expire on the last day of the year. Mr. McGinnis was President of the Central Labor Union when his term expired as a delegate from Typographical Union, but his term as President of the Central Labor Union did not expire for some six weeks later. Mr. McGinnis was not returned as a delegate from Typographical Union No. 1. That he was not to be returned as a delegate was known to Mr. McGinnis during the month of December. According to information Mr. McGinnis joined the Women's Union Label League in December and was elected as delegate to the Central Labor Union for the term beginning with the first of the year. At the semi-annual election held in February Mr. McGinnis was re-elected President. The question is: Can an active member of a trade union thus represent the Labor League? Has the League any different status in this particular that a federal labor union/ Is it not a fact that representation at any stage of the League in any federated body is purely honorary? In order that this question may be definitely settled I would advise that you write the Secretary of the Central Labor Union, L.A. Barth, 3009 North Capitol Avenue. Fraternally yours, (Signed) Edgar A. Perkins, Organizer. [*950*] X. April 18, 1911.1 [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. Albert Hibbert, Secretary, United Textile Workers of America, Box 742, Fall River, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: I have your favor of the 16th instant, in which you advise me that 114 members of your local union in the City of Toronto, Canada, have been locked out for the reason that they refuse to sign a document forbidding them to join a labor union. You further say that the lockout has been endorsed by your International Union; that the men are now receiving benefits as provided by your Constitution. If you so desire, I shall be glad to send copy of your letter to Organizer John A. Flett, who is now stationed at Montreal, and request him to give any assistance he can to the members of your organization, but I hesitate to do so at present, as I infer from your letter that the matter is being well taken care of by the representatives of your International Union. In the meantime, your letter reaches me in ample time for a notice of the situation prevailing in Toronto to appear in our weekly news letter which will be sent out the last of this week to all the labor press and official journals. I should be glad if you would advise me as to the final outcome of the Toronto situation so that due notice may be given in our weekly news letter. [*951*] Mr. Albert Hibbert -2- With best wishes for success, and assuring you of my desire to be helpful in every way within my power, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*][*952*] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. William J. Spender, Secretary, Building Trades Department, A. F. of L., Ouray Building, City [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which I have just received from the Secretary of the local Building Trades Council of Jackson, Michigan, in which he requests advice as to representation in his Council and which I have advised him would be referred to you as Secretary of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L. Kindly give this matter your early attention, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*953*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] COPY. BUILDING TRADES COUNCIL, Jackson, Mich., April 13, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: We have received our charter and are instituting a Local Building Trades Council. As there is some question arisen as to the eligibility of the U.B. of Carpenters and Joiners to join at this time I have been instructed to ask your advice on the subject. Thanking you in advance for any information you may impart us, I beg to remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) Jno. B. Campbell, Sec. Jackson Building Trades, 108 Center St., Jackson, Mich.[*954*] [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. J. B. Campbell, Secretary, Building Trades Council, 106 Center Street, Jackson, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 13th instant in regard to the organization of a local Building Trades Council in Jackson, I beg to say that I have referred your letter to Secretary Spencer of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L., with the request that he take the matter up with you direct. You should hear from him by an early mail. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*955*] X. April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. C. T. Ladson, Peck Building, Atlanta, Georgia. Dear Sir: Please accept my thanks for your favor of April the 13th in which you enclose copy of the Journal of Labor of March 26, 1909, containing report of the address you delivered concerning Justice Wright's decision in sentencing Vice-President Mitchell, Secretary Morrison, and myself to nine, six, and twelve months' imprisonment in the District jail. I read your speech with interest and want to thank you for sending it to me. You request that I should return the paper, but I ask that you let me hold it for the present. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*956*] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. Frederic W. Gardner, Buck's Stove and Range Company, Southern Hotel, St. Louis, Mo. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] My dear Mr. Gardner: Your very kind favor of the 15th instant is received, and under separate cover the two wrist purses which you so kindly sent to Mrs. Gompers and myself. I have sent one to her and she desires me to convey to you her appreciation of your courtesy. I too thank you for your thoughtfulness and I am sure that the purses will be most convenient. Reciprocating your kind regards, I am, Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*957*] LF [*COPIED. APR 19,1911*] Washington. D.C., April 18, 1911 Mr. M. J. Scholey, Mayor Kenosha, Wisconsin Telegram received. Several years ago the American Federation of Musicians voluntarily and unanimously decided that their members would not participate in parades or demonstrations with musicians who are not union members. The condition which you state was not brought about in this particular case. [you] [state.] Am communicating with Owen Miller, Secretary American Federation of Musicians, 3535 Pine St, St. Louis, Missouri. Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor COLLECT.[*958*] [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] LF Washington, D.C. April 18,1911 W. S. Carter Peoria, Ill. With deepest regret I have to announce that Edward Moseley member your organization, Secretary Interstate Commerce Commission passed away this morning. Funeral Thursday afternoon, four o'clock. Accept my sincerest sympathy and condolence. Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor (Charge to A.F. of L.)[*959*] [*COPIED. APR 13 1911*] LF Washington, D.C. April 18,1911 A. W. Hawley, Peoria, Illinois. With deepest regret I have to announce that Edward Moseley member your organization, Secretary Inter-state Commerce Commission passed away this morning. Funeral Thursday afternoon four o'clock. Accept my sincerest sympathy and condolence. Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor (Charge to A.F. of L.)[*960*] LF April 18, 1911 [*COPIED.*] APR 18 1911] Mr. Owen Miller, Secretary American Federation of Musicians, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: This morning M. J. Scholey, Mayor of Kenosha, Wisconsin endeavored to have a long distance telephone communication with me, but it was so unsatisfactory that a word here and there was conveyed to me by relays of the telephone operators and I then suggested that if there was any matter of importance, the Mayor might telegraph me. I have just received the following telegram from him at 4 P.M.: "New City Hall to be dedicated Saturday April 22nd. Parade of all unions and societies none but union musicians employed and all in the city engaged a number of societies having their own band wish to join in parade union musicians refuse to march unless others are stopped. Governor of State to be here and hundreds of visitors from outside. No principle of labor involved. Disgruntled politicians mostly socialists endeavoring to embarrass the city administration. Ninety per cent of union labor men opposed to the stand taken. Wish you would send representative. Respectfully, M. J. Scholey, Mayor." To which I have sent the following telegraphic reply:[*961*] Mr. Owen Millers--2 "Telegram received. Several years ago the American Federation of Musicians voluntarily and unanimously decided that their members would not participate in parades or demonstrations with musicians who are not union members. The condition which you state was not brought about in this particular case. Am communicating with Owen Miller, Secretary American Federation of Musicians, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, MO." [*April 18, 1911*] It seemed to me that you should be in possession of this information and to take such action as you may deem necessary in the premises. [*COPIED COPIED APR 18, 1911*] With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor .[*962*] X. April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. J. C. Shannessy, Organizer, Journeymen Barbers' International Union, Hotel Alabama, East. 13th St., New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 14th instant addressed to Secretary Morrison has been referred to me for reply. You say: "I have appointed H. R. Thorp as Local Organizer for New York. He formerly resided in Middletown, N. Y., and commissioned for three or four years by you as Local Organizer, and as I understand, has done some very fine work for several of the International Organizations and the A. F. of L. If consistent, I should be pleased to have you favor him with a Local Organizer's commission from the A. F. of L." Our records show that on March 24, 1910, on the request and recommendation of the Central Labor Union of Middletown, Mr. Thorp was discontinued as volunteer organizer for the A. F. of L. in the vicinity. I have quite a file of correspondence on the case, and would be glad to show it to you if at any time you should call at headquarters. In the meantime, I enclose to you herein copy of letter from Journeymen Barbers' Local Union #435, of Middletown, N. Y., addressed to Secretary Morrison under date of March 17, 1910. In view of this letter from your Middletown local, and the official request of the Central Labor Union of that city, you can very readily understand that there was no alternative left me than to withdraw Mr. Thorp's commission. Under these circumstances I should hesitate to re-issue it unless upon the request of the963 Mr. J. C. Shanessy -2- Middletown Central Body and of your Local #435. Please let me hear from you in regard to the matter at your early convenience. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. [*964*] [*COPIED. APR [??] 1911*] COPY. JOURNEYMEN'S BARBERS LOCAL UNION NO. 435. Middletown, N. Y., Mar. 17, 1910. Mr. Frank Morrison Dear Sir and Brother: I am a delegate to the C. L. U. and President of the Journeymen Barbers of this city and vicinity and when this recommendation was made by the C. L. U. I made the motion, it was seconded by E. R. Kenny, another member of our local who is President of the Trustee committee of our local, that A. M. Phillip be appointed as District Organizer here. As the protest of H. R. Thorp being presented to A. F. of L. I would suggest his credentials be discontinued as soon as possible for his actions toward the C. L. U. of this city will soon disorganize the C. L. U. Through his stubborn personal spite actions he has driven one-third of the locals out of the C. L. U. No later than last night the Painters voted to withdraw their delegates through spite sentiment of his and if the A. F. of L. endorses such a man as H. R. Thorp,we will not have a Central Body long to take the troubles of different locals to. We have work for an organizer here now, the Retail Clerks and Straw Hat Workers, but they won't let him organize them because they dislike him, but he is like the dog in the manger, anything to be spiteful. If he can't be the whole thing he is not satisfied. He had our local out of the Central Body for about 18 mo. at one time just because he could not run the whole Central. This is not a personal letter of my feelings, but a letter for the welfare of the organization in general. Yours fraternally, (Signed) Wm. E. Smith, 120 E. Main Street. SEAL.965 X. April 18, 1911. Mr. W. R. Darley, Box 323, White Plains, New York. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Dear Sir: Your favor of the 12th instant is received and contents noted. I regret to say that I was called out of the city when your play was given here and therefore did not have the opportunity of witnessing it. Several labor men who did see your play and who spoke to me about it, expressed themselves as being very greatly pleased. I hope yet that I may have the opportunity of seeing it. Very sincerely yours, Sam Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*966*] X. April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 18 1911*] Mr. Andrew Furuseth, President, Sailors' Union of the Pacific, 44-46 East Street, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Your two favors of recent date, the last one dated April tenth, have been duly received and contents noted. In your first letter you say that you were not getting on so well as you had anticipated, but as you do not say anything in your last letter as to your physical condition, I infer that you are improving. In any event, I hope so. Thanks for the copy you enclose of the letter [and] written by the National Association of Manufacturers to the Union Lumber Company. I wish you would send me any further matter of a similar character which may come to your hand. In compliance with your request for information as to the membership of several committees of the House of Representatives, I enclose herein cop[i]y of all of the committees, thinking you may have need of it. I note with interest your reference as to the situation at Los Angeles. Of course you will not fail to give me any further information along th[e]is line which may co[j]me to you. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you often, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*967*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. T. V. O'Connor, President International Longshoremen's Association, Mutual Life Bldg., Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the tenth instant came duly to hand, also enclosure. I have been so engrossed with work requiring immediate attention that I have been unable to get to your letter. I only just saw it. It matters little to me what you do with the letter. It is a personal attack upon me, unjustified, improper, and advocates a political party in the official trade union journal of the I.L.A. If you desire to publish that article, you may do so, but do not depend upon or expect me to write a reply, for I shall not do it. I understand your trade union journal to be for the trade union, not for the advocacy of a political party, nor for attacking a trade unionist who has carried out the policy and principles of the trade union movement, as unanimously approved by the delegates to the Denver Convention and subsequent conventions. If you publish that article, you simply open up the columns of your journal to that sort of matter, of a political partisan character, and which will know no end. I am very much in doubt whether your correspondent is the author of the letter sent you. These people have regularly organized literary bureaus in their political party machinery. They have the contributions of millionaire faddists and so-called "intellectuals"[*968*] Mr. T.V. O'Connor -2- who aim to weaken and destroy the trade union movement, and direct their shafts against the most active trade unionists. The trade unionists who are engaged in the struggle to help their fellow workers, are too busily engrossed in this struggle to enter into literary controversies meaning nothing except injury to the interests of the workers. Personally, I have not the time to devote from my duties to a squabble with every fellow who imagines he can engage me in a controversy, creating confusion, or leading to seed. This letter is written for such advice that you may find in it, but is not for publication. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*969*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911 COPIED. APR 26 1911*] April 19, 1911. Mr. M. L. Monaghan, 4455 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, Mo. As the delegate from your local union to St. Louis Convention introduced Resolution twenty-one and conference is to be held at New York City Saturday April twenty-second, in regard to it, I ask you to advise me whether your union will be represented at the conference? Please wire answer. SAMUEL GOMPERS President American Federation of Labor. Charge A. F. of L.[*970*] X. April 18, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] Mr. Burt Hammers, Secretary, United Mine Workers ofAmerica, Local #2864, R. R. #1, Scammon, Kansas. Dear Sir andBrother: I want to thank you for your favor of the twelfth instant and for the prompt action taken by your union in compliance with my recent letter requesting that a committee be appointed to wait upon the stove dealers in your vicinity and officially and formally advise them of the friendly relations now existing between organized labor and the Buck's Stove and Range Company. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*971*] X. April 19, 1911. [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] Mr. Quince Hutton, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Grand Junction, Colorado. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 13th instant is received and contents noted. I presume you refer to forming a branch of the Union Label Trades Department of the A. F. of L., and am therefore referring your request to Secretary Tracy of that Department, who will give you full information. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*972*] X. April 19, 1911. Mr. Thomas F. Tracy, Secretary, Union Label Trades Department, A. F. of L., Ouray Building, City. [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from Organizer Quince Hutton, Grand Junction, Colorado, which reads in part as follows: "I would like to ask for some information in regard to organizing a label league, butchers and bakers union. Any information pertaining to my office will be thankfully received, as there is much work to be done here." I have written him that his letter has been referred to you and that you will send him full information. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*973*] X. April 19, 1911. Mr. D. H. Leahy, Secretary, Local #69, International Alliance Theatrical Stage Employes, Holyoke, Massachusetts. [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] Dear Sir and Brother: Replying to your favor of the 17th instant, I beg to say that we shall endeavor to have Organizer Tazelaar remain in Holyoke just as long as we possibly can. I cannot now say definitely when it will be necessary to send him to another field, but you may rest assured we will do our best to comply with the request of organized labor of your city. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*974*] M April 18, 1911. Mr. John L. M. Allen, 400 West 150th St., New York City. [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 19th instant, and to thank you for the enclosures you make. He has not yet had the opportunity of looking over them carefully, but anticipates doing so, and appreciates your courtesy in sending them to him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*975*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] M April 19, 1911. Mr. R. S. Greer, Vice-President, Texas State Federation of Labor, 1514 R. R. Ave., Beaumont, Texas. Dear Sir: By direction of President Gompers, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 13th instant with enclosed clipping, and to thank you for same. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.976 M April 19, 1911. Mr. C. H. Thomson, Organizer, Box 542, Astoria, Oregon. COPIED. APR 19 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 18th instant is at hand, and I note what you say relative to the preparations made for Labor Day. It is impossible, however, for me just now to make any definite promise relative to a speaker for that day. If any of our organizers are near Astoria at that time, we will be glad to comply with your request, and would suggest that you write me again nearer that date. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 977 M April 19, 1911. Mr. F. C. Spelman, Secretary, Twin City Federation of Labor, Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. COPIED. APR 19 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 16th is received, in which you say that at the meeting of the Champaign-Urbana Federation of Labor, October 12, it was unanimously decided that all official matter should be withheld from "past local officers and others who are not entitled to receive the same, and especially William Gillespie who has been very antagonistic to Organizer R. E. Hatch in making the work very hard in many instances." You then give the newly elected officers of the Twin City Federation of Labor. Let me say, first, that your letter is not personally signed, but your name is written on the typewriter. Of course, you understand that anyone could write such a letter and sign your name on the machine. I would, therefore, suggest that in future communications to this office your name should be signed with the pen. As to Mr. Gillespie, our recorts show that he was dropped from our books as organizer on September 2, 1910, and his commission returned to this office. 978 F. C. S. 2. In giving the names of the newly elected officers of your central body you fail to give the name of the corresponding secretary which should appear upon our list. Please let me have this information at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor. 979 LF [*COPIED APR 19 1911*] April 19, 1911 Mr. John J. Flynn, Secretary Brotherhood of Railroad Freight Handers 816-824 Harrison St., Chicago, Ill Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant is received and contents noted. I am exceedingly pleased that our Weekly News Letter is being so well received. Letters of congratulation reach us from every section of the country. I think the News Letter will be helpful and can but result in much good. It is exceedingly gratifying to me to know that you are anticipating giving space to the Weekly News Letter in your Journal. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*980*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] LF April 19, 1911 Hon. Charles B. Smith, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Replying to your favor of the 18th instant I am glad to comply with your request to place your paper "The Cataract Journal" of Niagara Falls, New York upon our list to receive the weekly news letter. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*981*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] Y. April 19, 1911. Mr. E. R. Pace, President, District Lodge No. 16, I. A. of M., #604 Saunders Street, Raleigh, N. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 5, with enclosures, came duly to hand. I have noted contents of your letter with great interest, and especially your very able speech in the House on the Child Labor Bill. I have great hopes for the State of North Carolina in the matter of legislation, and hope you will not become discouraged. Other legislation in the interest of Labor will follow in time. I note that you state that you will "stand at the door every time they meet," and I want to say that with such expression as this, and such a man as yourself in the lead, success is bound to crown your efforts. I thank you for your prompt return of H. R. No. 239, and hope that you will not hesitate to call upon us at any time that we can be of service to you. With best and kindest wishes, I remain, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*982*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] LF April 19, 1911 Mr. John Fitzpatrick, 331 South La Salle St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: As I wired you in reply to your favor of April 10th in regard to the proposed amendment of the Child Labor Law of Illinois, I immediately began to make inquiries as to the amendment of the Child Labor Laws of New York State, which permit children to be employed upon the stage under certain conditions and whether this amendment has proven satisfactory to organized labor. After some correspondence with the President of the New York State Federation of Labor and the Chairman of the Legislative Committee of that body, the latter writes me under date of April 14th as follows: "At request of Pres. Harris, just received, I am mailing to you the law in this State bearing on your inquiry. Called Com. Williams at his home on 'phone and he says he is unable to answer as to results because it is under Penal Law and not under Labor Law. The enclosed law is cut from Labor Department Report. Hoping this is satisfactory and that it may reach you in time, I am, Fraternally, T. D. Fitzgerald, Chairman, Leg, Com." I also enclose the copy of the Child Labor Law to which Mr. Fitzgerald refers.983 Mr. John Fitzpatrick -- 2 Trusting that the above will be of assistance to you and your committee and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor Enclosure: [*984*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] LF April 19, 1911 Mr. Frank L. Mulholland, Nicholas Bldg., Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant is received and contents noted. I am indeed sorry to learn that Mrs. Mulholland has been so ill and can fully realize the heavy load that is lifted from your heart now that the doctor advises you that she is entirely out of danger. We hope that she will speedily be restored to her health. Mrs. Gompers is improving slowly, but is still suffering greatly. She is able now to be up and around the room a little, but even under the most favorable circumstances, it will be weeks before she will be able to be out. Reciprocating your kind regards, I am, Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers. Health and happiness to Mother and Babe SG[*985*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] M April 19, 1911. Mr. E. A. Bates, Secretary, New York State Federation of Labor, 256 South St., Utica, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant is at hand, and in response to your inquiry for information as to the status of the American Association for Labor Legislation, I beg to say that this Association is doing good work, and that it would to the interests of the New York State Federation of Labor to co-operate with them. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.M April 19, 1911. COPIED. APR 19 1911 Mr. Lee M. Hart, Secretary, Theatrical Stage Employees' International Alliance, State & Harrison Sts., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find copy of letter received from Organizer Duffy of East Liverpool, Ohio, which is self-explanatory. I have advised Brother Duffy that I was taking the matter up with you, and would request you to write to him direct. Thanking you in advance for your compliance with the above, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of [*987*] COPY. East Liverpool, Ohio, April 16, 1911. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I now have under consideration the organization of ushers of our local theatres. These men are just about to strike for what they term just compensation for the work they perform. They have presented demands to the managers of the theatres and have been flatly refused. They came to me for assistance and I am instructing them in the best way possible. I realize that according to the Federation Constitution, they should affiliate with the Federal Labor Union, now established here, but they are anxious for a charter of their own, realizing that there is no National organization of ushers they think they are justly entitled to a charter of their own. They have an organization of about fifteen members, and they feel that if they are successful it will be the means of beginning a National organization of ushers. Hoping to hear from you on this matter at the earliest possible date, and with best wishes to you, I remain, Yours fraternally, J. P. Duffy.988 [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] M April 19, 1911. Mr. J. P. [?uffy], Organizer, 300 Pine Street, Liverpool, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your favor of the 8th instant in regard to organizing the ushers of the theatres, I beg to say that I have re- ferred your letter to Secretary Lee M. Hart of the Theatrical Stage Employes International Alliance, State Hotel, State and Harrison Streets, Chicago, Illinois, as I am under the impression that these men should come under the jurisdiction of this organization, and requesting Mr. Hart to write to you direct. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from your whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*989*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] M April 18, 1911. IN REPLY PLEASE STATE NUMBER OF RESOLUTION - 135. Mr. Walter Macarthur, Coast Seamen's Journal, 44-45 East Street, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 13th received and contents noted. You state that upon the request of the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association of San Francisco, you write for information as to what action was taken by the Executive Council upon Resolution No. 135. In reply I beg to say that the minutes of the last Council meeting held at headquarters in January show that the following action was taken: On Resolution No. 135, St. Louis Convention, relative to inviting the licensed officers on merchant vessels and the licensed members of the Marine Engineers to affiliate with the American Federation of Labor, and that the question of issuing separate charters for their affiliation into an amalgamated organization be left with the Executive Council, it was moved and adopted that it be referred to President Gompers to carry the instructions of the Convention into effect: Mr. John J. Moriarty, representing the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association No. 35, of San Francisco, California, appeared before the Executive Council in regard to the matter of affiliation of the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association to the American Federation of Labor. He said that the proposition to affiliate with the American Federation of Labor was defeated by their Convention at St. Louis in December, notwithstanding that the committee on "Good and Welfare" brought in a favorable report upon same,[*990*] Walter Macarthur 2. Secretary Morrison reported that he attended the conven- tion of the Masters, Mates and Pilots last evening and explained the laws of the American Federation of Labor and the relationship to the Federation of International unions affiliated therewith. A communication was read from Organizer David Kreyling of St. Louis, under date of January 24, 1911, in which he informed President Gompers that in accordance with instructions, he appeared before about thirty delegates attending the Convention of the National Marine Engineers Beneficial Association at the Planters' Hotel, on January 16, in company with Organizer Shanessy of the Barbers, in re- gard to the affiliation of this organization with the A.F. of L. His letter stated that the Committee on "Good of the Order" reported favorably on the proposition to affiliate with the A. F. of L. but it was defeated by the Convention. You will thus see that we have been doing everything within our power to bring about the affiliation of this organization. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Good luck. Write again & often. S.G.991 [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] X. April 18, 1911. Mr. A. B. Garretson, President, Order of Railway Conductors of America, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the ninth instant reached here the 12th and I was so engrossed with important work which could not be deferred that I laid your letter aside in the hope of soon finding a ray of light beyond the immediate pressing duties. I now know that unless I 'break in" an answer will be too long delayed. You say there is a sentiment among a portion of the membership of the O. R. C. to eternally bar men who have at some time proven faithless to their fellow workers and acted as "strike breakers" during the progress of a contention between workmen and their employers. You ask me to advise you as to what the attitude of the American Federation of Labor is toward such faithless men. Replying I should say that the A. F. of L. in the very nature of its makeup could take no effective action upon a matter of this character for as you know the A. F. of L. has no individual membership. I can give you the attitude of a number of the organizations. I can give you my views and the course that I have pursued. The attitude of the labor organizations in regard to men who have "refused to obey the mandate of the union representing their craft on strike or [hav] who have entered the service of the employer[*992*] Mr. A. B. Garretson --2-- against whom a strike was in progress", varies. Most of them impose fines of from $25.00 to $200.00. Others provide a probationary period from a month to three months in addition to a fine. Some provide a reprimand in a meeting of the local organization. Nearly all insist upon the payment of back dues up to the time of their suspension or expulsion. In all cases which I know in which fines are imposed, an opportunity is afforded for payment in installments. I know of no organization which permanently bars a "strike breaker" from membership. Personally, and in my course in the labor movement, I have held and hold that "While the light holds out to burn, the vilest sinner may return". I take this position because of many viewpoints. A few are from the practical and humane. Looking at the matter practically, it is disadvantageous, even to the loyal, intelligent workmen, who realize the necessity of protecting themselves by associated effort, to permanently bar a "strike breaker" from membership. They realize it is unwise to enlarge the number of non-unionists and anti-unionists. They desire to avoid creating a sentiment and feeling of bitterness in the hearts of non-unionists who must feel that the hands of their organized fellow workmen are raised against them, for they further realize that as a matter of self-defense these non-unionists must be hostile to the extension of the influence and power of the organization, and that they may feel impelled to do any and everything within their power to prevent the extension of unionism. Humanely, I am against, and the organized labor movement I am glad to say is against, the infliction of capital punishment, the taking of human life. We deny the right of society to take away that which it has not power to give, human life. If an organization of labor has not the power to practically enforce permanent[*992*] Mr. A. B. Garretson --2-- against whom a strike was in progress", varies. Most of them impose fines of from $25.00 to $200.00. Others provide a probationary period from a month to three months in addition to a fine. Some provide a reprimand in a meeting of the local organization. Nearly all insist upon the payment of back dues up to the time of their suspension or expulsion. In all cases which I know in which fines are imposed, an opportunity is afforded for payment in installments. I know of no organization which permanently bars a "strike breaker" from membership. Personally, and in my course in the labor movement, I have held and hold that "While the light holds out to burn, the vilest sinner may return". I take this position because of many viewpoints. A few are from the practical and humane. Looking at the matter practically, it is disadvantageous, even to the loyal, intelligent workmen, who realize the necessity of protecting themselves by associated effort, to permanently bar a "strike breaker" from membership. They realize it is unwise to enlarge the number of non-unionists and anti-unionists. They desire to avoid creating a sentiment and feeling of bitterness in the hearts of non-unionists who must feel that the hands of their organized fellow workmen are raised against them, for they further realize that as a matter of self-defense these non-unionists must be hostile to the extension of the influence and power of the organization, and that they may feel impelled to do any and everything within their power to prevent the extension of unionism. Humanely, I am against, and the organized labor movement I am glad to say is against, the infliction of capital punishment, the taking of human life. We deny the right of society to take away that which it has not power to give, human life. If an organization of labor has not the power to practically enforce permanent[*993*] Mr. A. B. Garretson --3-- expulsion from the union, and hence from work at the trade or occupation, then the permanent expulsion and exclusion is ineffective, indeed is farcical. On the other hand, if the organization has the power to permanently expel from the union, and thereby exclude the workman from employment, that, too, is capital punishment, for it effectually deprives the workmen of the opportunity to live. I would not have you believe for a moment that I am in love with the "strike breaker", but I cannot help pitying them more than I blame them, for indeed, in the great cause of justice and humanity for which the labor movement stands, they know not what they do. As one who endeavors with whatever power and ability he possesses, I stand for unionism, with all that it implies, earnest, consistent, persistent and militant aggressive unionism of a constructive character, to defend, promote, and advance the rights, the principles, the justice, and the uplift to which the toilers are entitled. I would not care to burden this letter with my experiences in the circles of unionism in advocating that men who have broken the faith with their fellows and who have placed a stigma upon themselves might be given a chance to return to the fold. This particularly applies to those who have experienced a change of heart, who have seen the error of their ways, who by their association with their fellows, by their earnest and consistent work, desire to prove that they are worthy of membership in a union, worthy of the name of man, and to have an opportunity to live down their past, to make a fresh start with honor to themselves, with credit and advantage to their fellows, and with success and glory to the organization. Indeed, it has often come under my observation that those who have at some time proven faithless and untrue to their fellows and to themselves have been among the most intelligent, energetic and trustworthy advocates and defenders of the cause of organized labor.994 Mr. A. B. Garretson -4- Depend upon it, that unless the organized workers will endeavour to recruit and re-recruit the unorganized, be they undorganized for any reason, the employers will take advantage of the situation to their own benefit and to the detriment of the workers. Trusting that the above expression of views may commend itself to your favorable consideration and action, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*995*] Z April 19, 1911. Mr. Andrew J. Furuseth, Preseident, International Seamen's Union of America, 44 East St., San Francisco, California. COPIED. APR 19 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter which I recently received from a friend of mine in New York he says that there seems to be, among those who know Mr. Charles H. Sheraton, a feeling of doubt regarding him, though there is nothing definite which he can learn. My friend, learning of these rumors, has been trying to get some reliable information but says that he finds it very difficult to get anything tangible. He thinks, however, that he is now in the way of getting reliable and accurate information and he then further suggests that one of the general officers of your International Union is in New York, a Mr. Griffen, and that it seems to him (my friend) that Mr. Griffen would be in a position to get some information if the general officers of your International Union have confidence in Mr. Griffen's discretion, trustworthiness and ability. It seemed to me that you should be advised of the information which has come to me and as above indicated. As my friend wrote me a personal letter I do not feel at liberty to disclose his name. Let me have a word from you996 Mr. Andrew J. Furuseth---2. In regard to this at your early convenience, and belive me to be, with best wishes, Yours fraternally, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*997*] COPIED. APR 19 1911 Z April 19, 1911, Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Mr. Joseph B. Williams, Secretary of the Amalgamated Musicians' Union of Manchester, England, will attend the convention of the American Federation of Musicians as English delegate. I know Mr. Williams well and have been in correspondence with him. He writes me that he will leave England on the Caronia on the 25th of April, due to arrive in New York on the second of May. I presume, of course, that the local union of Musicians in New York, either for itself or through the American Federation of Musicians, has appointed a committee to officially meet Mr. Williams upon his arrival. I wish you would make inquiry as to this so if such arrangements have been made I would be glad to have you go with the committee to receive Mr. Williams upon his arrival and convey to him my personal greetings and good wishes. He says in his letter to me that if it be at all possible he will visit Washington during his stay in this country. Of course you understand that I am in no way making any official arrangements for Mr. Williams' reception, for I have no desire whatever to interfere in any way with any arrangements[*998*] [*COPIED. APR [??] 1911*] Mr. Hugh Frayne---2-- which may have been made, but I merely want you, because of my friendship for him, we meet him and extend any fraternal good wishes and greetings. With kind regards and best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*999*] Z April 10, 1911. PERSONAL. [*COPIED APR 19 1911*] Mr. Hugh Freyne, Organizer 25 Third Avenue, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In addition to the enclosed letter, you of course understand that your meeting Mr. Williams does not involve any question of entertainment, etc., as that, of course, will be provided for by the counties of the musicians. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*1000*] [*COPIED. APR 19 1911*] Z April 19, 1911. Mr. James Hawthorne, Organizer, 771 River Street, Troy, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of April 11th received and contents noted. I regret exceedingly the tone of the letter you write me in response to my recent communication to you. I was in hopes that the matter in dispute had been adjusted in some way which might prove satisfactory to all concerned. Your statement discloses the reverse. Surely nothing that I have done or said or which the American Federation of Labor has done or said should warrant you in assuming the attitude you have. If you have a just claim it certainly should be given proper attention and I am earnestly desirous of doing all that I can to aid in that effort. As a union man of long standing surely you could not want to convey the idea that because of the matter going the reverse of what you desired you break a union of workmen which you say you hoped to form. More than likely you have given expression to such a thought in anger and that you would never seriously think of undertaking to carry it out. If there is anything which I can do to be helpful in bringing about a better understanding between you and President[*1001*] Mr. James Hawthorne--2. D'Alessandro or any other person in the labor movement I should be glad to hear from you. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.1002 COPIED 20 1911 LF Washington,D.C. April 20 Mr. Hugh Frayne, 25 Third Ave., New York, N.Y. Inasmuch as Stone Derrickmen's Union of St.Louis introduced resolution 21 at St.Louis Convention and the union advises me it will not be represented at proposed conference New York City, Saturday, April 22, there is no necessity for a conference , at least at present and it is therefore either postponed or cancelled. Will advise with you later. Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor (Charge to A.F. of L.) COPIED APR 20 1911 LF Washington, D. C. April 20 D. D'Alessandro, 82 State St. Albany, N. Y. Inasmuch as Stone Derrickmen's Union of St.Louis introduced resolution 21 at St.Louis Convention and the union advises me it will not be represented at proposed conference New York City, Saturday, April 22 there is no necessity for a conference, at least at present and it is therefore either postponed or cancelled. Will advise with you later. Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor (Charge to A.F. of L.) 1003 COPIED APR 20 1911 LF Washington, D.C. April 20 1 Mr, Michael Carraher, 150 East 125th St., New York,N.Y. Inasmuch as Stone Derrickmen's Union of St.Louis introduced resolution 21 at St.Louis Convention and the union advises me it will not be represented at proposed conference New York City, Saturday, April 22 there is no necessity for a conference, at least at present and it is therefore either postponed or cancelled. Will advise with you later. Samuel Gompers. President, A.F. of L. (Charge to A.F. of L.) COPIED APR 20 1911 LF Washington,D.C. April 20 Fred W. Suitor, Scampini Building, Barre, Vermont Inasmuch as Stone Derrickmen's Union of St.Louis introduced resolution 21 at St.Louis Convention and the union advises me it will not be represented at proposed conference New York City, Saturday, April 22 there is no necessity for a conference, at least at present and it is therefore either postponed or cancelled. Will advise with you later. Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor (Charge to A.F. of L.)1004 LF [*COPIED APR 20 1911*] Washington, D. C. April 20 1 John Drexel, 440 Sullivan St., Chicago, Ill. Inasmuch as Stone Derrickmen's Union of St. Louis introduced resolution 21 at St. Louis Convention and the union advises me it will not be represented at proposed conference in New York City, Saturday, April 22, there is no necessity for a conference, at least at present and it is therefor either postponed or cancelled. Will advise with you later Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor (Charge to A. F. of L.) LF [*COPIED APR 20 1911*] Washington, D. C. April 20 1 M. F. Ryan, American Central Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Inasmuch as Stone Derrickmen's Union of St. Louis introduced resolution 21 at St. Louis Convention and the union advises me it will not be represented at proposed conference in New York City, Saturday, April 22, there is no necessity for a conference, at least at present and it is therefor either postponed or cancelled. Will advise with you later Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor (Charge to A. F. of L.) 1005 COPIED. APR 20 1911 [LF Washington, D. C. Apr. 20 1911 Miss Harriet Stanton Blatch 46[?]G. Expect to be in New York Tuesday. Can see you Victoria Hotel four o'clock that afternoon. Samuel Gompers. COLLECT.]1006 COPIED. APR 20 1911 LF Washington, D.C., Apri.20, 1911 Miss Harriet Stanton Blatch Forty-six East Twenty-ninth St. New York, N.Y. Expect to be in New York Tuesday. Can see you Victoria Hotel four o'clock that afternoon. Samuel Gompers COLLECT.April 20, 1911. [*COPIED APR 20 1911*} Mr. Frank W. Cotterill, Organizer, Box 124, Medford, Oregon. Dear Sir and Brother: Your note attached to your monthly report as organizer has been duly received and contents noted. You say that you would like to ask through the AMERICAN FEDERALIST if the international unions affiliated to the A. F. of L. will do their part in helping to organize the men employed in their respective trades in Medford and vicinity. Let me say that if you will give me a list of the trades and the names and numbers, I shall be glad to take the matter up by personal letter with the executive officers of the several national and international unions interested. I note what you say about allowing "isolated members to pay dues or per capita tax direct to headquarters". As to this feature let me say that the constitution of a number of international unions provides for a system of jurisdiction membership, so that where there is not a sufficient number of men working at the trade in any locality to form a local union, yet these menneed not be debarred from mem- bership in the international union. Such jurisdiction members, however, would not be entitled under the laws of the American Federation of La-1008 F. W. C. 2. bor to representation in an affiliated central body. Hoping to hear from you again at your convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*1009*] [*COPIED. APR 20 1911*] X. April 20, 1911 Mr. E. K. Brasel, 725 S. West Street, Galesburg, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 16th instant is received and contents noted. You do not state what organization it is you represent, but I take it that you are a member of the Brick Makers' local union. I beg to say that I have had considerable correspondence with Secretary William Van Bodegraven, of your International organization, in regard to the Purington Paving Brick Company, and have been endeavoring to do everything that I could to be helpful. Of course you understand that I could not undertake to correspond with the local unions of the national organization upon any matters affecting the organization of the trade, for it would not only involve duplicate correspondence and work, but would necessarily tend to confuse. I therefore suggest that you write to Mr. Van Bodegraven and I have no doubt but that he will be glad to let you see my correspondence with him. Assuring you of my desire of being of every assistance within my power, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.April 20, 1911. Mr. J. Labadie, The Labadie Shop, Detroit, Michigan. Dear Friend Jo: Yea, I received your pamphlet and booklet and appreciated them very much. They have been right at my hand on my desk ever since they came in. I have been so overwhelmed and crowded, however, that I have not attempted to write you, but I felt sure that you would understand. I thank you very much for sending it to me and am always glad to get anything of the kind that you may feel disposed to send, even though I may not write you every time upon receipt. With the best of wishes, I am, Sincerely and fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*1011*] [*COPIED APR 20 1911*] M April 20, 1911. Mr. S. C. Kelly, Organizer, 1624 F St. San Diego, California. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 12th instant, in which you make report of conditions as they exist in San Diego and vicinity as regards the Building Trades, and also report as to various laws in the interest of labor passed by the California State Legislature, for all of which please accept his thanks. Very Truly Yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.1012 X. April 20, 1911. Mr. Mat. Lazard, Chief of the Publication Division, 24, rue de Babylone, Paris, 7e, France. COPIED. APR 20 1911 Dear Sir: Your favor of March 23d, is received and contents noted. It affords me pleasure to place your name on the exchange list to receive the American Federationist regularly, and the current issue is going forward under separate cover. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor, EDITOR, AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. [*1013*] [*COPIED. APR 20 1911*] X. April 20, 1911. Mrs. May McKinstry Gall, R. R. Free Delivery #4, Lansing, Michigan. Dear Friend: Your favor of the 13th instant has been received and contents noted. After considering the matter, I would suggest that someone should call upon the officers of the local union, and place the facts before them. I have no doubt but that they could do something for your father, and I am sure that if it can be it will be done. If I could, I would do this myself, but it is not within my power to do so. Reciprocating your good wishes, andhoping to hear from you further, I am, Sincerely yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*1014*] [*COPIED. APR 20 1911*] X. April 20, 1911. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 12th instant is received and contents noted. I am now writing to Secretary Meiler in regard to the pamphlet entitled "FACTS" which you say has been recently issued by that organization, and will endeavor to get full information in regard thereto. Thanking you for bring this matter to my attention, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.April 20, 1911. Mr. John G. Meiler, Secretary, Amalgamated Wood Workers' International Union, 3538 N. Albany Ave., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Secretary Duffy of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners in a communication recently received from him advises me of the fact that there has recently been issued by your organization a pamphlet entitled "FACTS" also containing a speech stated to have been delivered by Mr. Andrew Furuseth at the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. o f L.. I would be very much obliged indeed if you would kindly send a few copied of this pamphlet to me. Thank you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, (unsigned) President, American Federation of Labor. April 20, 1911. Mr. William H. O'Brien, President, Central Labor Union, 987 Washington St., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: In the Boston Traveler of April the 15th, I read with great interest and appreciation the statement you made in which you set forth your reasons for declining appointment to the Board of Civil Service Commissioners. I congratulate you upon the position you have taken. It is the proper course and policy to pursue. When the labor movement develops men of ability they should give that ability to the cause of labor. Frequently the employers, business men, and politicians undertake to lure men away from the ranks of labor by flattering offers of position of emolument. I again congratulate you on the stand you have taken. With assurances of my high regard, and hoping to hear from you occasionally, I am, Fraternally yours, (unsigned) President, American Federation of Labor.1017 COPIED APR 20 1911 X. April 20, 1911. Mr. Peter W. Collins, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill?inois. Dear Sir and Brother: Since the meeting of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. at headquarters last January , I have written President McNulty several letters in connection with a conference between the representatives of your Brotherhood and Mr. Reid and his colleagues, as directed by the Executive Council. The last letter I wrote President McNulty was under date of April third, as follows: "Washington, D. C., April 3, 1911. Mr. Frank J. McNulty, President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Pierick Building, Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: On March 3d. you wrote me that your Executive Board was then in session and that my letter in regard to a conference with Mr. Reid and his colleagues, as directed by the Executive Council, had been referred to your Executive Board. You further state that you would write me as soon as a decision had been reached. Thus far I have not heard anything from you. Mr. Reid writes me, under date of March 30, desiring to know what had been done in regard to the matter of a preliminary meeting for the purpose of expediting the join convention You know that the Executive Council received direct and specific instructions from the St. Louis Convention for the purpose of doing everything within its power to bring about unity among the organized Electrical Workers of America, and the Executive Council outlined a method by which the desired result could be accomplished. It is fair and reasonable to all parties concerned, and you will realize that any action or failure to act, would react upon anyone or any organization responsible. Time is passing along and action should be taken and this office notified, so that the preliminary conference might be had and jointly work for the unification of the Electrical Works of America.1018 Mr. Peter W. Collins -2- Please let me hear from you in regard to the above at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, (Signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor." I am sure you appreciate how necessary it is that action be taken in conformity with the decision of the St. Louis Convention of the A. F. of L. and the Executive Council at its recent meeting. I therefore request that action be taken immediately by the officers of your Brotherhood, to the end that the preliminary meeting may be held as directed by the Executive Council. Will you please let me hear from you in regard to this at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 1019 X. April 20, 1911. Mr. T. L. Mahan, Secretary, International Steel and Copper Plate Printers' Union of North America, 219 S Street, N. E. City. COPIED. APR 20 1911 My Dear Mr. Mahan: Your favor of the 16th instant received and contents noted. Now in regard to Miss Torrens, who you say is anxious to secure a position as stenographer and typewriter at the headquarters of the A. F. of L., while I should indeed be glad to oblige you, yet at present there is no vacancy. However, I have made a note of her application, and should a vacancy occur at any time, the matter will be given due consideration. I take it, of course, that Miss Torrens is a member in good standing of the Stenographers, Bookkeepers, Typewriters and Assistants' Union #11773, of Washington, D. C. You understand of course, that all of the employes of the office of the American Federation of Labor must be members of Local #11773. Reciprocating your good wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml.Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor, 1020 M April 20, 1911. Mr. George Bechtold, Secretary, International Brotherhood of Foundry Employes, 200 South Broadway, St. Louis, Mo. COPIED. APR 20 1911 Dear Sir and Brother: Acknowledgment of the receipt of your favor of April 13th has already been made, and I taking this my first opportunity to make reply thereto. You say: "During the month of March, 1911, the Foundry Employes of this City presented to the Stove Manufacturers of St. Louis a request for the prevailing union wages, shop conditions and extra compensation for overtime. In accordance with the agreement entered into July 19th, 1910, at Cincinnati, Ohio, the same request was made of the Buck's Stove and Range Company of St. Louis, Missouri. In connection with this permit me to call your attention to Article one and two, of said agreement. Several conferences were had with the Management of the Buck's Stove and Range Company, and I must say we were very courteously treated, but informed that they were members of the Stove Founders National Defense Association which did not permit them to deal with any officer of an organization, but that they would gladly adjust this matter with a committee of their employees. To this we readily agreed, but the result has been a disappointment. Conditions today are such that I feel it necessary for you to use your good office to adjust this matter, and we earnestly appeal to you to do so. We will abide by any settlement you may make for us. Detailed information is at hand for you or your representative." 1021 G. B. 2. Mr. Frederic W. Gardner, President of the Buck's Stove and Range Company has already written me saying that you very courteously furnished him with copy of your letter to [him] me. He then goes on to say that according to his understanding of the rules and the laws of the Stove Founders' National Defense Association, that his Company is not to call upon the officers of the Association until the Company has failed to settle any differences which may arise with its own workmen. Therefore, as already explained to you by Mr. Gardner he could not take up the matter with you as an officer of your International Brotherhood until he has exhausted every effort to bring about satisfactory relations with the employes of his Company. He further says that he and Mr. Lee Van Cleave have had a meeting with the other stove manufacturers of St. Louis with a view of completing arrangements for a nine hour day, which would include the foundry employes as well as the other employes in the shops of the Buck's Stove and Range Company: that this effort would no doubt be successful if your Brotherhood will withdraw its opposition. Mr. Gardner further says that he has investigated the average prices paid for labor in the shops of the leading competitors of his Company throughout the West and South, and he finds that his Company is now paying the average price in all departments over which your Brotherhood has jurisdiction, although he says a slightly higher wage rate is paid at Belleville, Illinois, which is only one out of a dozen of the localities in competition with his Company. I have given you in substance the information as given me by Mr. Gardner.[*1022*] G. B. 3. I ask that you and the officers of your Brotherhood consider the matter most carefully, for it seems that your Brotherhood should not lose this opportunity for establishing the nine hour day for the entire trade in the city of St. Louis. In any event I ask that the entire matter be given the careful consideration of your colleagues and yourself, and that you will advise me in regard thereto at your earliest convenience. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.1022 G. B. 3. I ask that you and the officers of your Brotherhood con- sider the matter most carefully, for it seems that your Brotherhood should not lose this opportunity for establishing the nine hour day for the entire trade in the city of St. Louis. In any event I ask that the entire matter be given the careful consideration of your colleagues and yourself, and that you will advise me in regard thereto at your earliest convenience. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*1023*] [*COPIED. APR 20 1911*] M April 20, 1911. Mr. David Kreyling, Secretary, Trades and Labor Union, 3535 Pine St., St. Louis, Missouri. Dear Sir and Brother: I have just been able to reach your favor of April 12th the receipt of which has already been acknowledged. You say: At the meeting of the Central Trades and Labor Union of St. Louis held on April 9/11 the local union of Sheet Metal Workers No. 247 and other affiliated locals submitted requests for aid, in order that they may be enabled to bring into the fold of their locals the men employed at the plant of the Buck's Stove and Range Company. This they claim they have been unable to accomplish up to this date. The request of the Sheet Metal Workers was complied with by the Secretary being instructed to render such aid as laid in his power, the requests of the other locals were held in abeyance until we could hear from you. This action was taken because the delegates of the C. T. and L. U. did not feel justified to go into this matter any deeper, for fear they would interfere with plans, or arrangements of yourself, or any of the international officers in interest. Therefore I was instructed to write you requesting you to advise us as to just how far the C. T. and L. U. can go in this matter without running any chances of interfering with the plans of anyone." In connection with this general subject matter I have just written to Secretary Bechtold, of the International Brotherhood of Foundry Employes, and beg to enclose to you herein carbon copy of my letter to him, and ask you to consider it as part of this communication to you. Under existing circumstances it would appear that before any steps are taken by your Central Labor Union in compliance with the request of the locals in organizations the employes of the Buck's Stove and Range Company that it would be well to con-1024 D. K. 2. sult with the executive officers of the several national and international unions involved. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.1025 COPIED. APR 20 1911 M April 20, 1911. Mr. H. B. Wessel, Secretary, Ohio Valley Trades and Labor Assembly, High St., Fulton, Wheeling, W. Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant is at hand, and I have noted with a great deal of interest all that you say in regard to the affairs of the United Steel Corporation in that section of the state. I thank you for sending the information to me. I will be of assistance and help. I have not yet received a copy of your labor paper to which you refer, but I presume it will come by a later mail, and I will be glad to have the opportunity of looking it over. Now, as to the mass meeting which you say will be held sometime next month,and to which you extend to me an invitation to make an address. I beg to say that it will be impossible now for me to give you any definite promise as to whether I can or can not be present. I would first like to know the exact date when the meeting will be held, and then my acceptance will depend largely upon the decision of the Supreme Court of the United States in our appeal on the contempt proceedings now pending before the court. We expect the decision to be handed down anyMonday. You might write me again1026 H. B. W. 2. when the exact date of the meeting will be decided when I may in a position to give you a definite answer. You request that Organizer Philip J. Byrne should be authorized to remain in Wheeling for three or four months. Let me say Mr. Byrne, I am under the impression, is employed as organizer for the Boot and Shoe Workers Union, and is not a general organizer for the American Federation of Labor. I suggest, therefore, that you write direct to President John F. Tobin, of the Boot and Shoe Workers Union, as to the matter of continuing him as organizer for a longer period. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor P. S. President Tobin's address is 246 Summer St., Boston, Mass.1027 M April 20, 1911. COPIED APR 20 1911 Mr. W. A. Taber, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 11617, Herrin, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 17th instant is at hand, in which you enclose wage scale adopted by your organization, and which you desire approved by the Executive Council. You state that you have been instructed and requested that be presented immediately and returned to you as soon as possible. Let me say first that the scale fails to give the name of the Company by which your members are employed nor the date when it goes into effect, and when it will expire. You will please give me this information immediately. In addition thereto I would also request that you give me the following information: Are the members of your union are employed by more than one company? If so, give the name of each company, and the number of your members employed by each. Are the other men employed by such company or companies also members of organized labor? If so, give the names of the organizations. Is your union now working under a formal agreement and wage scale? If so, when does it expire.[*1028*] W. A. T. 2. How do the wages and hours of labor sought to be obtained by your local through the agreement you submit compare with wages and hours in similar lines of work in your locality. If there are other organizations whose members are employed by the Company or companies employing your members are such organizations working under formal written agreements. If so, does the wage scale of Local No. 11617 mainly conform to the wages and hours under which the other organizations are working. As you will understand I want full and detailed information. You do not say that your organization anticipates any trouble or if in the event of any trouble you expect financial assistance from the defense fund of the A. F. of L., but to obviate any trouble or misunderstanding of the matter your attention is called 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 of 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 President 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 strike and be entitled to the benefits provided by the Constitution. Your attention is called further to the same section.1029 W. A. T. 3. 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 the Executive Council. Your attention is called further 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." In view of the requirements of the Constitution, keep us fully advised. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.1030 M April 20, 1911. [*COPIED APR 20 1911*] Mr. John M. Burrows, Secretary, Machinist Helpers and Laborers No. 12892, Carleton Place, Ontario. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 10th instantis at hand and contents noted. You say that your organization is making an endeavor to secure an increase in wages for the Machinist Helpers from 16cent to 23 cents an hour, and also you are endeavoring to secure the nine hour day. You do not say whether or not this has been made in the shape of a formal written wage scale and agreement to your employers. I wish you would advise me as to this, and if your demand has been made as a formal written wage scale and agreement, you will please send copy to me. I would also like you to give me the following information: The name of the Company employing your members. Are all your members employed by this one Company. Are all the employes of the Company union men. If so state the different organizations represented. Have these organizations agreements with the Company. Does the demand not being made by Local No. 12892 for the increase in wages and nine hour day conform in the main to the hours 1031 J. M. B. 2. and wages of the other organizations represented in this establishment. How do the wages and hours sought to be established by Local No. 12892 compare with the wages and hours in same lines of work in similar establishments in your locality. In fact, I want full and detailed information. You do not say that your organizer anticipates any trouble or if in the event of any trouble you expect financial assistance from the defense fund of the A. F. of L., but to obviate any trouble or misunderstanding of the matter your attention is called 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 XXII of 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 President 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 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 the Executive Council. [*1032*] J. M. B. 3. Your attention is called further 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." In view of the requirements of the Constitution keep us advised fully. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.1033 X. April 18, 1911 COPIED. APR 20 1911 MDr. Frank Duffy, Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Please accept my thanks for your letter of April the 5th in which you enclose the original letter sent you by Mr. Barnes of the Socialist Party in regard to John W. Slayton. The information will be of help to me. I return Mr. Barnes' letter as you request. With best wishes, I am, Fratarnally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.1034 Z April 20, 1911. Mr. John J. Fitzpatrick, Organizer, COPIED. Room 501, 275 La Salle St., APR 20 1911 Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Acknowledging receipt of your favor of April 7th in regard to Mr. R.S. Johnson of the Metal Lathers' organization, I beg to advise you that I have placed copies of the entire correspondence in the hands of President McSorley of the Metal Lathers, for his advice. It seemed to me that the matter was one which should be placed before him as it directly affects the interests of his organization; I shall, therefore, await his advice before writing you further upon the subject. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.