NEGRO CONVENTION, BRIDGE CASE, HEAVY SHOWER, RETAIL CLERKS, LUKER-CLARK AND MOOT-FULLER WEDDINGS, AND LIGHTNING'S PRANKS

 

Booker T. Washington.

Cortland Evening Standard, Thursday, August 20, 1903.

A NEGRO CONVENTION.

National Business League at Nashville.

BOOKER T. WASHINGTON SPOKE.

Rapid Growth of Organization in Five Years—Way to Win Confidence and Esteem of the American People. Disadvantages of Negro and Jew in Europe Compared.

   Nashville, Tenn., Aug. 20.—Following is an abstract of the address delivered last evening by Booker T. Washington before the National Negro Business league:

   The National Negro Business league assembled here constitutes, I think I am safe in saying, the largest and perhaps the most representative secular organization among our people in this country. Its growth during the five years since its first organization at Boston, has been at a very rapid rate.

   More and more, I am glad to see, the black man is beginning to appreciate and take advantage of the opportunities for commercial and business development in this country. It is much wiser for us to emphasize opportunities than grievances. The world soon gets tired of the man or the race with a grievance. We must learn to be bigger than those who would insult us. We must learn to hold up our heads, and march bravely forward in spite of obstacles and discouragements. The mere fact that there can assemble in this beautiful state capitol building in a Southern state hundreds of colored men and women, from all parts of the country, representing as you do nearly every line of business in which the white man is engaged, is an indication of growth which is more potent and helpful than much abstract argument. The race that can produce such an assembly of men and women after only 40 years of freedom is one to be proud of.

   We shall succeed in winning our way into the confidence and esteem of the American people just in proportion as we show ourselves valuable to the community in which we live, in all the common industries, in commerce, in the welfare of the state, and in the manifestation of the highest character. The community does not fear as a rule the vote of the man, no matter what his color, who is a large taxpayer. It is not the negro who owns a successful business or works at a trade who is charged with crime.

   While we are in many cases surrounded with disadvantages, when we compare our condition and opportunities with those of the Jew in many parts of Europe, it is easy to see that almost every opportunity denied the Jews is open to us.

   The greater the difficulties to be overcome, the more strength we shall gain by succeeding. Every house owned, every farm cultivated, every bank account, every store operated, every tax receipt, is one influence which will operate tremendously in our favor.

   The negro is not ungrateful for all the benefits he has received at the hands of the white people of this country, and should on every proper occasion never fail to express this gratitude in no uncertain language. But the mere fact that we are not easily satisfied, and seek still further opportunities of advancement, is an indication of the value of the race. People who are easily satisfied are people of few wants. Wherever you find a race that is easily satisfied, and one that has few wants, there you will find a race that is of little value to its country, industrially, commercially, or in any other direction.

 

POMPEII IS THREATENED.

Lava of Vesuvius Has Taken a Course Like That of 1,800 Years Ago.

   Naples, Aug. 20—Vesuvius continues active and eruption has now lasted two weeks. On nights when there is no moonlight the spectacle is magnificent, the crater belching flames and smoke to the height of nearly 4,000 feet.

   In spite of the legend that Naples will be destroyed by Vesuvius, the Neapolitans truly believe that their patron saint San Gennaro, will stop the flow of lava with a gesture, should it advance too near Naples.

   The stream of lava, after flowing 2,650 feet in the direction of Ottajano has stopped, while the other stream is still moving and has reached a point 2,550 feet towards Pompeii.

 

Merchants' Bridge.

PAGE FOUR—EDITORIAL.

The St. Louis Bridge Case.

   An interesting question is raised in the demand of the secretary of war upon the owners of the Merchants' bridge at St. Louis to show cause why the charter should not be forfeited for violation of the conditions under which the grant was made and the bridge erected.

   At the time the charter was granted the Eads bridge enjoyed an absolute monopoly of communication across the Mississippi and was charging tolls which the public considered excessive. So strong was the feeling that it was insisted that the charter for the new competing bridge should contain clauses for the revocation of the grant if the owners consolidated with any other bridge company, entered into any pooling agreement or its officers became the officers of the other bridge corporation. The Terminal association, composed of the railroads entering St. Louis, is said to have acquired control of both the Eads and the Merchants' bridges. It imposes a charge of 25 cents upon every passenger, whether he walks or rides, and $1.25 upon every freight car. This tax upon transpontine traffic has resulted in the creation of the town of East St. Louis, although upon a swamp, because manufacturers desired to escape the toll.

   The outcome of the pending litigation, in which the validity and wisdom of the antimonopoly provision of the charter are to be tested, will be awaited with general interest. While the question is vital to St. Louis, it is of concern to the rest of the country by reason of the principle involved.

 

Main Street, Cortland, N. Y.

A HEAVY SHOWER.

Cortland Visited by Worst Storm of the Season.

THE STREETS TURNED INTO RIVERS.

Sluiceways Blocked and Gutters Flooded—Drenching Downpour Came Just as Stores and Shops Were Closing.

   Cortland experienced the most severe rainstorm ot the season yesterday afternoon and last evening. The day was hot and sultry and just the day to generate thunder showers. It was a day which is called a "cyclone breeder" in the West, and the shower was by no means unexpected.

   The shower began to gather in the north about 4 o'clock and as it commenced to grow dark and the wind increased it was evident that the city was to experience a severe storm. Just before it began to rain the wind blew a gale and it was almost impossible to see on the streets on account of the dust.

   When it did begin to rain shortly before 5:30 o'clock, the water came down in sheets. In ten minutes [Tompkins] street in front of the postoffice was covered with water from curb to curb on all sides the entire square formed by the intersection of Main, Tompkins, and Port Watson-sts. being covered with water. The sluices were unable to carry it off and it came up over the walks to within six feet of the postoffice. It is said that the lower part of Port Watson-st. seemed a veritable river, being full from curb to curb.

   At the corner of Main and Court-sts. the water rose above the walks and flowed into the Randall garden.

   The new sluices under the Lackawanna tracks on Railroad-st. were unable to carry the flood and there was an overflow there for a short time. Employees of the Cortland Beef company endeavored to persuade one of their number to float through the channel, he to do so for $10. It took less than two minutes to get the $10 but the sum was evidently too small and the passage was not made. It was suggested that perhaps the water in Dry and Otter creeks rose high enough to induce some of the property owners there to subscribe more towards clearing out the channels of the streams and that it would be a good time for the committee to go among them for that purpose.

   The rain came at a bad time for those working in stores, shops, etc., and many did not get home until late, others started out at once and rode their wheels through water that reached the pedals. It continued to rain hard at frequent intervals until well into the night, but not enough to flood the streets as during the first part of the big shower.

 

CAUGHT IN THE SHOWER.

E. B. Richardson and Dr. M. R. Smith Have an Automobile Experience.

   Dr. M. R. Smith of McGraw had his first experience with an automobile yesterday afternoon. Upon invitation of E. B. Richardson of the City Cycle Co. he took a ride with that gentleman to Tully. The doctor bought a brand new automobile cap before starting out.

   The trip to Tully was accomplished without accident or mishap. On the return, however, they encountered the storm about a mile this side of Little York. As the rain increased the wheels of the machine began to slip, and as the downpour continued the automobile, as well as the riders, was drenched and literally soaked.

   The machine refused to go, owing to the combined influences of mud and water, and the assistance of Mr. Gutchess, who lives on the Little York road, was enlisted to bring the two to Cortland. The machine was left until the roads should become more passable and the prospects for a pleasure trip more inviting. They reached Cortland shortly after 9 o'clock. The doctor does not contemplate visiting his patients in an automobile just yet.

 

A Communication.

   To the Editor of The Standard:

   Sir—Local branch No. 870, R. C. I. P. A. wishes to express its thanks to the affiliated unions, and to the merchants and people of Cortland who have assisted them by their hearty support in the endeavor to secure the same rights extended to those of other crafts.

   It is known to every one that the mechanics, professional men, and even the Italian laborers who dig in the ditch rarely ever exceed ten hours of work in a day. Why then should the clerk be compelled to work twelve, fourteen, and even sixteen hours? Is his or her work any easier than that done by the others? Are the salaries any larger? Are the powers of endurance any greater?

   It would seem that some people consider the clerk a prodigy, at least as far as power to endure physical and mental work is concerned.

   In the large cities arrangements have been made whereby clerks need not work half the night after working all day. The stores are either closed or a new force takes up the work in the evening. In all other concerns this plan is followed. Why should it be considered unreasonable because they have asked the same right?

   The plan of closing so as to give the clerk a chance to get the amount of sleep and recreation necessary has been successful and it is to the trading public that they are largely indebted because they have found a majority of the people willing to do their trading in the day time.

   (Signed) E. M. Watrous, J. J. Ogden, W. C. Wolcott, Committee.

 

LUKER-CLARK.

Impressive Wedding Ceremony In Grace Episcopal Church Last Evening.

   Grace Episcopal church was last evening the scene of a very pretty wedding, the contracting parties being Charles Ross Luker and Frances Jane Clark, both well known and popular young people of this city.

   The church was decorated with ferns, golden rod and flowers, and with the brilliant lighting presented an attractive appearance. Before the ceremony and while the guests were arriving, the following musical program was rendered by Miss Jennie Guild at the organ.

   Allegro, C. H. Whittier

   Gavotte in B flat, Hendel

   Norwegian Wedding March, Soderman

   As the bridal party entered the church the Lohengrin wedding march was played by Miss Guild and at the close of the ceremony the Mendelssohn march was heard as the wedding party passed down the aisle.

   The ceremony was performed by Rev. W. B. Clarke of Seneca Falls, formerly of Cortland, assisted by Rev. W. W. Way, rector of the church. Harry A. Vail of Cortland acted as best man and Mss Alma O'Brien was bridesmaid. The ushers were Messrs. Herman W. Carver, Charles P. Dunbar and Charles H. White of Cortland and Frank F. Gray of Stony Point. The bride, preceded by the ushers and maid of honor, entered the church leaning upon the arm of her father, Mr. Nathaniel O'Brien, by whom she was given in marriage. She wore a handsome bridal gown of white silk mull over white satin, with a veil fastened with rosebuds and carried a large bouquet of bride roses.

   The maid of honor wore white dimity and carried a shower bouquet of pink carnations.

   A reception and wedding dinner followed the ceremony at the home of Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien on Washington-st. at which about thirty of the near relatives and friends of the bride and groom were present. The house was tastefully trimmed with sweet peas, asters, golden rod and ferns. Miss Grace Theis presided at the lemonade bowl, which was upon the enclosed porch and Mrs. O'Brien was assisted in serving by Miss Florence Park, Miss Allport and Miss Frost.

   The bride was generously remembered in the way of gifts, which included silver, linen, cut glass, articles of furniture and handsome pictures. Mr. and Mrs. Luker left on the midnight train for a wedding trip of about two weeks, after which they will be at home in Cortland.

   Among the guests from out of town who were present at the wedding were: Miss Rebecca Mosher of Rochester, the bride's aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Gates and family, Mr. Thomas Luker, Miss Eleanor Wright of Little York, Miss Eleanor E. Miller of Rochester, Prof. George D. Sykes and Frank F. Gray of Stony Point.

 

MOOT-FULLER.

A Cortland Man Claims His Bride in Lincklaen, N. Y.

   A pretty and quiet home wedding occurred Wednesday at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. C. R. Fuller in Lincklaen, when their youngest daughter, Mertie L., was united in marriage to Mr. Arthur Moot of Cortland.

   The ceremony took place at 11 o'clock and was performed by Rev. W. Jasper Howell, pastor of the First Baptist church of Cortland, assisted by Rev. F. G. Webster, pastor of the Congregational church of DeRuyter, N. Y. Irving Moot of Valley Mills, a brother of the groom, was best man and Miss Kirby L. Bradford of Homer was the bridesmaid. The wedding march was played by Mrs. F. M. Davis of Pitcher.

   About twenty-five guests from Cortland and elsewhere, besides the home friends, witnessed the ceremony. Hearty congratulations followed the ceremony and the wedding dinner was a bountiful feast. There were many beautiful presents, including silverware, furniture and a purse of nearly $200.

   After a brief wedding journey, Mr. and Mrs. Moot will be at their home, 6 Union-st., Cortland.

 

CALVERT FAMILY REUNION.

Held Wednesday at the Home of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Haskins.

   The third annual reunion of the Calvert family was held at the home of Frank Haskins near South Cortland yesterday and was attended by between sixty and seventy members of the family. People were present from New York, Brooklyn, Corning, Grand Rapids, Mich., and from various places in Cortland, Tompkins, Onondaga and Cayuga counties. Before sitting down to dinner two photographs of the family were taken and a third while they were at dinner, the photographers being Earl S. Haskins and Mr. Patchell.

   Shortly after dinner the president, Marvin Wood, called the assembly to order. Mr. Wood was re-elected president and Lamont Calvert, secretary and treasurer. The president called upon Rev. John B. Calvert, who reviewed the history of the family from 1780 to the present day in a most interesting manner. N. F. Webb, G. H. Hyde and Ben M. Jaquish of Brooklyn also spoke interestingly. The married and single men had a game of baseball in the afternoon in which the benedicts were worsted.

   Letters of regret were read from various members of the family. Everything passed off in a most enjoyable manner until in the return trip when many of the family were caught in the rain shower.

 

LIGHTNING'S PRANKS.

House on T. C. Scudder Farm Struck Last Evening.

   During the thunder storm which swept over this vicinity last evening, lightning struck the house on the T. C. Scudder farm, occupied by George Severance, on the back road to Homer. The roof was somewhat damaged and some of the clapboards were torn off. The bolt struck the chimney and also entered a room occupied by one of the men who works for Mr. Severance. The man received a slight shock but suffered no serious injury. A mirror in the room was completely shattered, the glass being broken into pieces so small that not one the size of a five cent-piece could be found.

 

BREVITIES.

   —An Italian giving his name as Corloman Mastrofort had the middle finger of his right hand taken off at Wickwire's [wire mills] this afternoon. He was taken to Dr. Higgins' office to have the injured hand dressed.

   —Potatoes are attaining a marvelous growth this season and some record breaking sizes are being reported. One of the Carmen variety was dug on the W. L. Bean farm at McGraw this morning that tipped the scales at 2 lbs. 3 1/2 oz.

   —The annual reunion of the Delevan family was held at the Cortland park yesterday. About seventy-five members of the family were in attendance and a most enjoyable time is reported. A full account of the gathering will appear latter.

   —Excelsior Hook & Ladder company No. 3 left on the 8:11 train this morning for Gloversville where they will participate in the annual parade of various fire departments in the firemen's convention which is being held at that place this week.

   —New display advertisements today are—L. & K. Freeman, Special sale of ladies' hats, page 6; Mitch, Men wanted, page 5; Hollister Bros., Perfection bread, page 5; Brokerage Co., Consumer's picnic, page 8; G. H. Wiltsie, Anniversary sale, page 5; M, A. Case, Fair week special, page 5; City Drug store, Spices, page 5.

 

REIGN OF TERROR, BULGARIAN LEADER KILLED, NEW MILITIA ACT, ASSEMBLY PARK, ITHACA BAND, AND COMMON COUNCIL

 

Bulgarian Insurgent Band.

Cortland Evening Standard, Wednesday, August 19, 1903.

REIGN OF TERROR.

Turkish Troops Unwilling to Protect Christians From Fanatical Mussulmans.

   Sofia, Bulgaria, Aug. 19.—A reign of terror is reported to prevail at Uskub, where the Christian inhabitants are afraid to leave their houses. The Vali has issued the strictest orders to the Mussulman population to remain quiet and not molest their Christian neighbors; but the Mussulmans meetings in the mosques have resolved at a given signal to massacre the whole Christian population, immediately the first insurgent band appears near Uskub, or on any other pretext. The Christians are terrorized.

   The Turkish troops, who are their only public protection, do not show the slightest disposition to aid them. The attitude of the Turkish troops was recently plainly manifested when a train load of soldiers shortly after leaving Uskub fired on and killed three of the Bulgarian workmen who were repairing the track.

 

Boris Sarafov.

Bulgarian Leader Killed.

   Sofia, Bulgaria, Aug. 19.—According to a report from Uskub, Michailovski, the Bulgarian leader, was killed in the fighting at Krusshevo, while Boris Sarafoff, the noted insurgent chief, has been surrounded at Prassbalkan in the southern part of the Monastir vilayet.

   The night train service between Salonika and the Serbian frontier has been suspended. Forty-three battalions of Turkish reserves in Europe have been called out.

 

Russia Formulating Demands.

   Constantinople, Aug. 19.—A report has gained considerable credence among the general public of the city today to the effect that Russia is formulating fresh demands on the Porte including the appointment of a Christian governor general for Macedonia.

   Diplomats doubt the idea.

 

PAGE FOUR—EDITORIAL.

The New Militia Act.

   In the current number of the North American Review Lieutenant Colonel James Parker discusses the scope and import of the militia act of 1903 from the standpoint of a soldier of the regular army.

   Colonel Parker points out that, while the execution of the new law has been somewhat delayed by reason of the time required to study and interpret its provisions, yet much has been accomplished already in carrying it into effect. An inspection, for instance, is now going on by army officers to determine in each state the strength and efficiency of the militia. How large an undertaking this is alone may be gathered from the fact that there are in the national guard of 118,000 men and officers over 2,300 companies stationed in 1,196 towns. As the reports from the various states come in, showing the number of qualified militia, the new magazine guns and equipments are, upon the requisition of the governor, shipped to replace the old arms.

   In general, the attitude of the states toward the new law is one of enthusiastic approval, and they are all arranging to comply with the requirement that each year every organization shall have at least twenty-four drills and five days' field service. It is believed that many young men who would not otherwise enter the national guard will now do so in order to acquire the training that will qualify them to compete for places on the war department roll of eligible volunteer officers. Thus a new and valuable element will enter the ranks, raising the standard of the personnel. Colonel Parker trusts that we may presently see the acquisition by the government of several tracts of land which will permit the execution of maneuvers by the army and national guard on a large scale. The main difficulty is the expense, for in the more thickly settled states land suitable for the purpose cannot be bought in tracts of 20,000 to 30,000 acres for less than $50 to $100 an acre.

   Prominent among the advantages of the act are the great improvement in the efficiency of the national guard which will undoubtedly result as a consequence of governmental supervision and aid, better arms and equipment and more thorough training and, above all, the formation of a competent system of national defense without the necessity of maintaining a large standing army, which is undesirable under a republican form of government.

 

ASSEMBLY PARK.

Active Preparations for Farmers' Day—Entertainment—Personals.

   Active preparations are being made for the greatest Farmers' day ever held at Assembly park. The date is Saturday, Aug. 22, and it is for the citizens of Onondaga and Cortland counties.

   Everybody is talking about this occasion, both old and young, and it is expected that a large number of people from all over central New York will be present.

   The principal feature of the occasion will be a debate between Congressman M. E. Driscoll of Syracuse and Abe Gruber of New York on "The Canal Question." Every one is deeply interested in this subject. Special pains will be taken by the management to accommodate every one who comes.

   The Onondaga Indian band will be present all day. There will be sports, including a baseball game between Tully and Pompey, tennis games, etc.

   These features are outside of the regular assembly entertainments. The Peterson sisters, successors to the famous Park sisters, will entertain both afternoon and evening.

W. C. T. U. Meetings.

   At the temperance congress today, the Rev. G. A. Bronson discussed the encouraging features of temperance reform.

   Miss Fanny Crosby, the famous hymn writer, spoke at the morning evangelistic meeting.

   Miss Lillian, the soprano soloist, at the afternoon meeting sang "Jesus Savior Pilot Me."

The Round Table.

   At the Tuesday morning session of the Round Table, Mrs. Elizabeth Snyder Roberts read a few lines from Ruskin to open with.

   Mr. Geo. T. Hastings of Homer delivered an address on "Chili." He described the country with its mountains, some of which are 5 miles high. We find here glaciers and deserts, rich mineral products, of which copper and silver are chief; great fields of nitrates, which can be cut like clay, and from which all government expenses are paid. Some very large estates extend across the country and here we may see the old feudal system still in vogue. The people are of Spanish origin, showing in their faces the mixture of Indian blood. All speak the Spanish language, and the extreme wretchedness of poverty may be found side by side with the rich.

   The Catholic church, which has a strong hold on the people, is in the same stage of development that we find it in Spain during the inquisition. The newspapers of the country are controlled by the English, and Presbyterian and Methodist missions of the United States are doing good work.

   Miss Maude P. Cody, of Cortland Conservatory of Music, recited ''Mr. Bouton's Photograph Gallery," and "Sunday's Lonesome for a Little Boy."

   Mr. Kenneth Bruce, son of the Hon. Wallace Bruce of Brooklyn, spoke on "Tennyson's Idylls of the King." He called the Arthurian history a great bubbling spring in the midst of English literature.

Program for Wednesday.

   Mr. Kenneth Bruce speaks at the Round Table on "Nathaniel Hawthorne" and at 2:30 p. m. on "American Genius."

   Carroll E. Smith of Syracuse is booked on the Round Table program for "Recollections of Prominent People."

   Mrs. F. D. Reese of Cortland will speak at the W. C. T. U. meeting upon "The Effects of Alcohol Upon Heredity."

   Wednesday evening there will be a concert in the auditorium by the Peterson sisters.

Assembly Park Personals.

   The following are registered at Hotel Chautauqua:

   Kenneth Bruce, Brooklyn, Zoe O. Welch, McGraw, and Mary E. Rogers, McGraw.

   The following program was given Tuesday evening under the supervision of Miss Maude P. Cody of the Cortland Conservatory of Music:

 

   Great credit is due to Miss Cody for the interesting program of last evening. Many of the numbers were such as to incite the admiration and applause of the audience to a large degree.

   We would like to make special mention of the recitation by Carl Peck, entitled "Boys' Rights," and the monologue by Miss Welch, entitled "Behind the Curtain."

   The recitations by Exilda Per Lee were good, and the pantomime by Miss Rogers was a wonderful exhibition of facial expression and gesture.

 

CORTLAND COMMON COUNCIL.

Action on the Telephone Matter Deferred Two Weeks.

TO GIVE TIME FOR INVESTIGATION.

Representative of Long Distance Company Present at the Meeting—Says Other Cities Have Granted Privileges Asked for—Aldermen Discuss Condition of City Streets.

   The regular meeting of the common council was held in the office of the city clerk last evening. Mayor Charles F. Brown and Aldermen E. M. Yager, E. R. Wright, Geo. H. Richards, C. E. Ingalls, R. S. Pettigrew and Vern W. Skeele.

   The minutes of the preceding meeting were read and approved. Mr. James, representative of the American Telephone and Telegraph company, came before the council and said that he regretted that the mayor had seen fit to veto the resolution passed by Aldermen at their last session, permitting his company to set poles and string wires along the streets of Cortland. He said that in not one of the 12,000 cities and towns connected by the lines of his company did the company do local business, it being their desire simply to have as many cities and large towns as possible in their circuit for long distance work. They have no friends in Cortland and desire recognition, and an invitation from the council to enter the city. Inasmuch as there has been considerable comment concerning the haste with which the aldermen passed the resolution he asked the council to defer action two weeks until all who desired could look more closely into the matter before their final decision. He asked them to inquire from Ithaca, N. Y., where resolutions of the same nature are in effect, in order to ascertain the manner in which his company does business.

   On motion of Alderman Skeele action was deferred two weeks.

   The aldermen had their hammers out for the board of public works in regard to the manner in which the board has been caring for the city streets. The council was of the opinion that more money should be expended on the main traveled streets, especially those leading into the city. Owego-st. was reported to be in an especially deplorable condition. On motion the council adjourned.

 

Ithaca Band, Leader Patrick Conway front and center.

LARGER THAN EVER.

The Ithaca Band Will Have Fifty Men Here on Friday.

   The largest band ever appearing in Cortland will be at Cortland park next Friday afternoon and evening when the Ithaca band of fifty pieces gives the last concerts of the season. When here in July they carried twenty-six men but on account of their annual tour taking in Rochester, Buffalo, Toronto and Philadelphia the band has been increased by the addition of some of the finest soloists in the country and will have fifty men on that occasion.

   A special excursion will be run from Ithaca to give Ithacans an opportunity to hear the band larger and better than they have ever heard them. The programs for Friday are as follows:

 

   A dance will be held the evening of the concert. Admission free to [street] car passengers.

   Moving pictures and dance at the park this Wednesday evening. Music by Cortland Orchestra. Picture specialty, Coronation Pageant.

 

BREVITIES.

   —New display advertisements today are—Opera House, Bennett-Mouton Co., page 5.

   —M. Kennedy, who underwent an operation for appendicitis at the hospital three weeks ago is rapidly recovering and expects to leave the hospital Friday. The operation was performed by Dr. H. T. Dana and was entirely successful in every way.

 

COLUMBIAN SENATE REJECTS TREATY, PANAMA DISSATISFIED, SOBER INCIDENT, T. H. DOWD COMMUNICATION AND BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS

 

Tomas Herran.

Cortland Evening Standard, Tuesday, August 18, 1903.

UNANIMOUS AGAINST IT.

Colombian Senate Rejects Hay-Herran Treaty.

MANY AMENDMENTS PROPOSED.

Statement by New York Counsel of Panama Canal Company—Much Dissatisfaction in the Panama Department—Fears of a Secession Movement on the Isthmus.

   Washington, Aug. 18.—Dr. Harran, the Colombian charge d'affaires, has received an official cablegram from the Colombian secretary of state, dated August 13, containing the brief announcement of the senate's rejection of the treaty on the day previous.

   When word was received that the Panama canal treaty had been rejected by the Colombian senate, William Nelson Cromwell of Sullivan and Cromwell, New York, made the following brief statement, as counsel for the Panama Canal company:

   "A committee of the Colombian senate on the 5th inst. recommended the treaty with a number of amendments. Our cable advices state that various parliamentary motions have been made, more or less involving these amendments, and a recent one indicates that the treaty is not acceptable without amendment but this is not regarded as final."

   The reason given for the rejection of the treaty by the Colombian senate, it is said here, was the alleged encroachment on Colombian sovereignty, which its opponents contended, would result from the treaty. This information was contained in a dispatch received by Dr. Herran, the Colombian charge, from Foreign Minister Ricos at Bogota. This dispatch showed the treaty had been rejected unanimously by the senate.

 

PANAMA DISSATISFIED.

Rumors of a Secession Movement by People on the Isthmus.

   Panama,, Aug. 18.—'The unanimous rejection of the Panama canal treaty by the senate is the talk in all circles. The question on all lips is what will become of Panama. The only consolation the Isthmians have is that the rest of the republic, with the exchange at a very high figure and with an upward tendency, will suffer a great deal more.

   It seems that the government never expected the treaty to be ratified, and it was not supported at all in the senate.

   General Lucio Velazoo, an old veteran and a distinguished army officer, has been appointed military commander of the department of Panama. It is thought fears, caused by the rumors of a secession movement on the isthmus, may have influenced the appointment.

 

Preparing For a New Treaty.

   Bogota, Columbia, Aug. 18.—It is reported that President Marroquin has been authorized by congress to make a new treaty which will not require further ratification, but that the bases given for the treaty will probably prove unacceptable to the United States.

   It is considered, however, that the authorization will furnish a basis for reopening negotiations with the United States.

   It appears that one of the objections to the ratification of the treaty was that the Panama Canal company did not come to a previous arrangement with the Colombian government for the transfer of the concession.

   The action taken by the senate moreover seems to have been influenced by the communication made by the American minister in which the introduction of any amendments to the treaty was objected to.

 

PAGE FOUR—EDITORIAL.

Sober Incident.

   The sober second thought at Danville, Ill., is evidently getting in its work. The indictment of eighteen persons implicated in the late shameful lynching disturbances there is a most hopeful sign. Public sentiment is rallying to the support of the officers of the law who were faithful and firm in the discharge of their duty and refused to temporize with the mob. The fact is beginning to dawn on thinking persons, even in localities where there is more or less sympathy with lynching when the victim is a colored man, that mob rule means the destruction of all law, order and public safety.

 

A COMMUNICATION.

T. H. Dowd in Regard to Long Distance Telephones.

A REPLY TO THE MAYOR'S VETO.

The Long Distance Company Not Asking for a Franchise, but for a Welcome—Would Thereby Avoid Litigation—No Intention of Engaging in Local Business—Would Make Long Distance Work Easier and Less Expensive.

   To the Editor of The Standard:

   Sir—The American Telephone and Telegraph company, commonly known as the "Long Distance Telephone company" requested the common council of this city at their meeting held on the 4th of this month, to adopt a resolution providing for connecting Cortland with its "telephone and telegraph system."

   The matter was fully discussed at the meeting, and at the request of the council, City Attorney Hatch, who had been previously advised that such a request would be made, addressed the board with an exhaustive statement with reference to the law involved. In his remarks, the city attorney set forth what seemed to him to be certain objections to the resolution requested. His objection was centered upon the lack of necessity for adopting a resolution of this nature, but he made no suggestion as to any additional restrictions that might be incorporated in the resolution.

   The council, after a full discussion, in which the representative of the Home Telephone company actively participated, adopted the resolution by a unanimous vote. Three days afterwards the mayor vetoed the resolution accompanying the same with a statement of his reasons for so doing.

   The Long Distance company regrets its application has met with opposition from the mayor and the city attorney. It presented its request to the municipal government of our city, believing that a relationship could be established between it and the city which would result in their mutual welfare. It desires the good will and friendship of the people of Cortland. Without such a feeling existing, it could be so obstructed and harassed that any effort upon its part to enter the city with or without the resolution, would be entirely impracticable; and it believes, if the people of Cortland dispassionately and without prejudice will examine its proposition, that they will be impressed with the honesty of purpose which bas actuated the company's application.

   In the first place, the company has not applied for a franchise and, as the mayor states in his veto, the city has not the power to grant it a franchise. The law places this authority exclusively in the state and, at the meeting of the common council this proposition was fully ventilated and understood by all present. The representative of the company stated that he did not ask for a franchise, and the mayor, in persistently referring in his veto to the resolution as a franchise, was unintentionally guilty of a misrepresentation.

   Municipalities guard with a jealous care, their inherent rights, and the giving away of franchises is an exercise of power upon the part of officials which is always closely scrutinized. The unintentional misrepresentation of the mayor had therefore a tendency to prejudice the public mind against the resolution and hold it up to our citizens as endeavoring, by deceit and untrue statements, to obtain something which the city could not lawfully give.

   The American Telephone and Telegraph company asked for the adoption of the resolution with a clear and defined purpose which can be easily explained. A perusal of the decision of Judge Spring in the Barbite case, cited in the mayor's veto, and which is the law of our state, will disclose the company's position. In his decision, Judge Spring used the following language:

   "The right of telephone and telegraph corporations to use the public streets and highways for the construction and maintenance of its lines is given in unmistakable language, and the consent of the local body is not required. This franchise, therefore, comes directly from the legislature."

   But it will be observed a little further on that the local municipality has certain powers which it may exert over the corporation when it attempts to use its franchise given by the state. The decision continues:

   "When a corporation of this kind is to avail itself of the legislative grant, the manner of its exercise, the location of its poles, the stringing of its wires, etc., are within the control and regulation of the local legislative body. That is one of the police functions committed to the municipality."

   As the mayor says, this decision is the law of our state. It declares that the city cannot give a franchise, but that it can control absolutely the company in its exercise of its franchise.

   The resolution, therefore, is a regulation adopted by the city by which the Long Distance company is controlled in the construction of its line in our city.

   It, therefore, by the written statute of the city, avoids any possible clash, legal or otherwise, that might occur in the future between the company and the municipal government of the city.

   Other cities of our state, (Ithaca, for example) have adopted exactly the same resolution which has been passed by our common council, and it has been the experience of the American Telephone and Telegraph company that such action upon the part of the city has invariably resulted in the mutual advantage of both parties.

   This company undoubtedly has the right to enter the city and build its lines without the aid of such a resolution. The Home Telephone company built its plant in Cortland without any action in relation thereto by the city government and encountered considerable opposition, which resulted in expensive litigation. That company, "was officered, organized and financed by citizens of this city," to use the language of the mayor. It was identified with local interests and yet it was vigorously opposed when it began the erection of its poles.

   The Long Distance company without such local influence at its back would, if it attempted to invade our streets arbitrarily, be so obstructed as to make its entry here virtually impossible. The resolution is an invitation to the company by the city to enter Cortland and it would undoubtedly do away with this anticipated opposition. The mayor states three objections for vetoing the resolution.

   First—That the resolution was adopted with unseemly and ill advised haste. Since its adoption, two weeks have elapsed, and the council has had this time for calm and mature deliberation. If nothing has developed during this period to change the opinions of the aldermen, this objection of the mayor is without force. The aldermen voted unanimously in favor of the resolution after being fully informed as to its terms and intent; and its adoption was not ill-advised or hasty.

   The mayor declares, secondly, that this right should not have been given to a foreign corporation gratuitously, perpetually and irrevocably when the same right had already been refused a local company and others willing to pay a substantial consideration therefor. The common council declared that it is ready to give the Home Telephone company the same resolution as that adopted in favor of the American company. The supreme court of this state has decided that a city cannot receive compensation for enactments of this nature. This law was thoroughly explained to the council by City Attorney Hatch at its last meeting. If it now seems right to the common council to adopt this resolution is it logical to assert that they should not do so because several years ago they had erroneously refused to take similar action with reference to another company?

   The mayor's third and last objection is that the resolution has not guarded the city against a monopoly. In other words, he declares by his last objection "keep out the stranger company, kill competition, and then we will prevent monopolies." He argues if the Long Distance company enters into competition with a local company, it will cause an increase in our telephone rates. This reasoning is so absurd that it hardly merits refutation. The only way to keep down rates is to encourage competition. As a matter of fact, the Long Distance company will only do a long distance business. It has no desire to injure any local interests. In not one of the 12,000 towns and cities throughout the United States reached by its lines, does it do a local telephone business, nor is there any intention of doing so here.

   It would be a benefit to the best interests of the city to have this company's lines in Cortland. The attorney for one of our leading manufacturing industries said to Mayor Brown in my presence that direct connection with the Long Distance company's lines would save our manufacturing interests, at least, $1,000 annually, as it would obviate the paying of tolls over another company's lines in order to reach the Long Distance company's system at either Ithaca or Onondaga Valley. The connecting of Cortland with the Long Distance company's system would benefit the manufacturing and other business interests of our city. To exclude this company, would be an injury to all those interests.

   It asks for nothing that is illegal. It seeks nothing by means of false pretenses. The resolution is frank and honest and should be treated fairly and squarely. It subjects the company to the absolute control of our board of public works in building its line, and expressly provides that no additional poles shall be placed upon our main street. He interests of our city are fully protected by the resolution, and there can be no doubt but that the board of aldermen will courageously affirm at tonight's meeting the decision taken by them two weeks ago.

   Thos. H. Dowd, Cortland, Aug. 18, 1903.

[Mr. Dowd was the elected district attorney of Cortland County—CC ed.] 

 

BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS.

Plans to Improve Streets—Port Watson-st. to be Macadamized.

   A postponed meeting of the [Cortland] board of public works was held in the office of the city clerk last evening. Those present were, Chairman S. S. Knox, C. W. Collins, C. F. Wickwire, and F. H. Cobh.

   The minutes of the preceding meeting were read and approved.

   A petition, signed by residents of the northwestern part of the city, requesting the board of public works to co-operate with them in clearing out the channels of Otter creek and Dry creek in order to prevent inundation, was presented to the board. The signers have circulated a subscription paper and have obtained $56 to aid in defraying the expense that would be incurred. The board thought $56 a small sum for them to subscribe [if] the conditions are as bad as are represented. They thought that if there was any great danger of inundation a property owner would be willing to pay more than $1 to have it averted. As the subscription paper has not as yet been thoroughly circulated, the matter was put over until the next meeting.

   A number of the residents of Prospect-st. came before the board and presented a petition, signed by all but three of the property owners on the street, requesting that the street be put on grade. The street is on a sidehill, there being practically no gutter on the upper side of the road. They thought that if the roadway could be cut down a foot on the upper side and filled in correspondingly on the lower side, the street would be in a much more satisfactory condition. The matter was referred to the superintendent of public works and the city engineer.

   The matter of paving Port Watson-st. was next brought up. It was practically decided to advertise for bids at the next regular meeting and issue the contract this year if the bid or bids meet the approval of the board.

   The payroll for the first half of the month, and the bill for installing the sewers in Lincoln-ave. and Maple-ave., were audited and ordered paid.

   On motion, the board adjourned.

 

BREVITIES.

   —There will be a regular meeting of Grover Post, No. 98, this evening at 8 p. m.

   —The ladies of the Presbyterian church will meet in the chapel for sewing tomorrow afternoon at 2:30 o'clock.

   —The attendance at the East Side Congregational mission Sunday was forty-eight and the collection amounted to 73 cents.

   —Where The Standard is sent by mail, the month and year to which subscription is paid always appear on the address label at head of first page of paper. Subscribers have only to look at this label to know just how their account stands.

   —The Ithaca News of last Saturday published a fine portrait of Chief Justice of the Court of Appeals Alton B. Parker and under it these words "Governor Taft of the Philippines will probably be appointed to succeed Secretary Root in the war department." Ithaca is a little too near Judge Parker's old home in Cortland county to try to post his portrait off for Governor Taft's, and so the inference is that the misfit was an error and not intentional.