Evening Star Newspaper, July 25, 1923, Page 2

== BAKER INDORSE BONDISSUEFORDL, Explanation of Probosal Would Win Big Support, Says Federation Head. Commissioner Oyster's proposal for a bond issue to enable the city to pave its streets, build schools, install high | pressure fire hydramts and make similar improvements was strongly indorsed today by Charles A. Baker, president of the Federation of Citi- zens' Assoclations. “I beNeve that if the question were put before the people of Washington, as 1t Is put to the residents of other cities there would be an overwhelm- ingly favorable vote¥ said Mr. Baker. The president explained that while he could only speak personally at this time, he felt reasonably sure that the question of a bond issue would be brought to the attention of the federa- tion in the fall’ by one of its member associations. ; Means of Catching Up. "1 am stmnglx in favor of a bond jssue,” he said. "It is the only practi- cal, sensible wi of catching up on municipal work lag during ahe the that necessarily had to war period. 1t is the way by which other muni- cipalities meet extraordinary im- provements. 1 believe Commissioner Oyster is on the right track in this} Commissioner stated today his mind was open (o receive consider fairly any valid objec- might be raised to his e hat and tions that roposition. P uunot help feeling.” he said, “that with so many urgent needs to be met that we should at least con- sider the possibilities of getting au- thority from Congress to sell bonds. HUNTS FOR MOTHER OF ABANDONED BOY Detc‘clive on Trip to Investigate New Information in Hotel Mystery. I | Information obtained last night by Detective O'Brien suggested possible solution of the abandonment of a baby boy found in a room in the Willard Hotel last Saturday morning. The de- tective left the city today, hoping to learn something additional of “the woman in mourning” wanted on a charge of abandonment. It has been definitely determined !»he 1s not Mrs. Harry Jones of Harris- burg, Pa., but resided in small town in a nearby state. The child was born in Columbia Hospital June 26, it was learned by the police, and was left in the hotel room not many days after the mother was discharged from the hospital According to statements of the po- lce, the mother is not wealthy, nor is she a soclety woman. It is thought she will be located and arrested in a few day Action in Juvenile Court today re- sulted in the baby being turned over to the board of children's guardians pending investigations. MISS HOUCK CHARGES MERCILESS GRILLING (Continued from First Page.) the coroner's inquest that Mr. Kepner had ordered her to burn the clothing both he and his dead wife wore the day of the tragedy, contradicting an- other statement of the husband dur- ing his own testimony before the same body. Mr. Kepner had said he could not remember just what he had | done with the clothing he wore that tatetul afternoon, June 18. While Addie was still on the stand an incident orcurred which almost | smashed the tense atmosphere that gripped the courthouse today. Sheriff Jones rushed suddenly up from his of- | fice, on the lower floor, demanded ad- | mittance to the grand jury room and A moment later came racing out with State Attorney Aaron R. Anders, the latter hatless and excited. Both leaped into an automobile and disappeared. That was about noon, and when they returned half an hour later neither would give an explanation. Session Delayed. Eszra Houck, jr., brother of Mrs. Kepner, was about to take the stand when that incident occurred. The session of the grand jury, however, had to be recessed until the state's attorney returned and both Addle Tyler and the young Mr. Houck were escorted to an anteroom to await the pleasure of the investigators and the county prosecutor. Efforts 1o follow the fleeing state officers were blocked until they got out of sight and left the crowd of newspaper men and spectators in a high state of nervous excitement. When the grand jury recessed for luncheon a member of that body de- clared that new evidence had been obtained which, he thought, would be presented this afternoon and would clear up the Kepner murder { correspondent fwhen all L. WHITE BUSBEY IN POLITICAL POST Former Representative Cannon’ Secretary Assistant to G..0. P. Chairman Adams. IS ERWIOT L. WHITE BUSBEY. L. White Busbey, for many years private secretary to Representative Joseph G. Cannon—part of the time | while Mr. Cannon was Speaker of the House—has been made assistant to John T. Adams, chairman of the re- publican national committee. Mr. Busbey succeeds the late Sumner Curtls, who was killed in an automo- bile accident near Denver during the recent visit of President Harding and his party to that place. Mr. Busbey was widely known as a newspaper man before he became secretary to Mr. Cannon, and was here for the Chicago Inter-Ocean POINCARE’S DOWNFALL IS BELIEVED LIKELY (Continued from First Page.) Supply previously obtained from Ruhr itself. - Will Not Trust Germans. French statesmen who are not in- terested in supporting Poincare’s ad- ventures in economic coercion, but who are as vehement in expressions of nationalism as anybody in Europe, say that the vital question of the hour is the will to pay. The Rubr s worth many times its cost, they in- sist. if it makes Germany realize her defeat and the obligation to pay her States debts. That is why United Secretary of State Hughes' suggestion of a committee to investigate the facts about Germany's capacity to pay does not interest France. Even if the facts were established, would Germany pay if she thought she could escape the obligations? The French have scen the Germans wri gle too much in the last three years to trust any one on the other side of the Rhine. France will believe Germany when the private bankers of the world and foreign govern- ments generally have underwritten and guaranteed Germany's promises. Of course, thé continued policy of isolation will get France nowhere. The French see this more plainly than they did six months ago. They miss the comeradeship ' of Great Britain and Italy more then they dare admit. And if the truth were known Belgium 1s'by no means as ready to follow France as blindly as she appeared to be at the outset of the Ruhr excursion. The fact that impressed the writer most about his trip through France was that the latter misses Great Britain and feeds her. One hears dehAunciations about the British selfishness, even British treachery, in failing to par- ticipate in the Ruhr invasion, but is said and done the French know that passive resistance would end tomorrow and Germany would sit up and take notice if the French and British could agree. Tnion Must Come. Just now the British are making another effort to join hands with the French. Poincare gives every evi- dence of alertness, combined with the fear that he may not be able to agree to the British proposals for | Joint action in the reparations con- troversy. But whatever he fails to do now, he or some other premier will be' compelled to do before the snow flies again. Europe cannot ge along ‘without concerted actio! Economic disturbances of today al- ready are breeding seeds of tomor- row's war. Germany has coal, France has iron. The two must be brought together. America could never have become economically prosperous but for the fact that Pennsylvania's coal and Michigan's ore were brought to- gether in other states of the same Union. The reparations controversy is not a matter of law, sentiment and national pride, but of dollars and cents and industrialism. Economic peace must come to Europe before there can be an assurance against a repetition of the last great war. mystery within a few hours. Asked whether or not there would be an indictment, the juror said he could not commit himself until he had heard just what ,this new matter might be. Clalms New Witnesses. Teo Weinburg, chief counsel for B. Evard Kepner, sat on a comfortable bench before the tribunal hege, en- joying a mountain sunbath while he was being quizzed by newspapermen. Asked the result of his visit toxWash- ington yesterday, the lawyer expre: ed himself as highly pleased and said he had obtained some witnesses that he might call on later, but would not bother at this time, “Nelther Mr. Kepner nor myselt,” he said, “are very much concerned over what the grand jury might do. The witnesses 1 mentioned will not be asked to appear before the jurors, but should events make it necessary 1 shall bring them in as witfibsses before a court of justice. More than that I am not permitted to say while the grand jury is in session. You | must_remember, as a_ lawyer, I am} an officer of the court’and must not influence a grand jury ome way or the other.” £ Heretofore the grand jury has been | In the habit of recessing promptly at | 4 o'clock, but it was intimated thati this afternoon they would remain in session long enough to hear all wit- nesses. Whether or not they would then begin balloting on the question of an indictment was an open ques- tion, but most persons believe they would prefér to wait until tomorrow, as an unprecedently hot battle be- tween the two factions—one for an indictment and the other for quash- ing the case ag a suicide—is certain to take place,’ and would probably hold the jurors in te courthouse throughout the night. AR Mrs. Joseph Mulvasic of Mahoney City, Pa.. is one of the few women living_who mined coal in Belgium and France. She is now past seven- ven years of a: nd but years old when she was first put to work in the mines. I | | i REASON FOR CHANGE “PURELY BUSINESS”| Arthur P. Davis, formerly chief of the reclamation service of the In-| terfor Department, was superseded as head of the service by D. W. Davis, former Governor of Idaho, as a “purely business measure,” Acting Secretary E. C. Finney declared to- day. Power interests seeking spe- clal privileges in the southwest, and particularly in the Colorado river basin, had nothing to do with the change, Mr. Finney declared. The ‘former head of the service was offered a position as consulting engineer, a subordigate post to that created ‘for his sUbcessor, but des clined 1t, 4. P. Davls is not a business man in"the true sense of the word, Mr. Finney declared, but is essentially an engineer. The twenty-odd recla. mation projects which the Interior Department now maintains in the west and on which it is colleeting money from settlers and farmers, de- mand a business man and not an en- gineer at present, as the engiheering work has been practically completed, he_added. - Removal of A. P. Davis as head of the reclamation service and sub- stitution of D. W. Davis as director is stated to be in -direct line with Secretary Work's policy of efficiency in the business of government. KEWICHOW TROOPS REBEL Chinese Force Under Hsi-cheng Attacks Gen. Yang Sen. By the Associated Press. ICHANG, Province of Hypeh, China, July 25.—It Is reported from Chung- king that Kewichow troops, under Gen. Chao Hsi-cheng, have revolted against Gen, Yang Sen, the a Loyang leader, Gen. Wu Pel attacked position on = Survey ~ shows Hand Strengthened by Situation Involving Radicals. BY ROBERT T. SMALL. The democrats will control the Senate during the next session of There has been much talk balance of power” resting with the radical republicans and the two farmer-labor members. After a careful survey of the situation and taking into account the state of mind of the radicals, the democrats have decided that they hold the whip hand and the organization of the new Sen- ate in December will proceed along lings laid down by them. Committee chairmanships will not 80 to the democrats, but will be dic- tated by them. The democrats can upset any plans that may be made by the conservative republicans, and {1f the appointment of committees is carried to the floor of the Senate, as now reems inevitable, the democrats Will be-all powerful In the assign- ment of members, for in & floor fight { the democrats have a right to vote | on the republican members of a com- | mittee as well as on the democratic. The democrats expcet uot onlv (o be in commaud of every situation arising on the floor of the Senate, but to control committee actions as | well, and every one who knows an thing about legislation at the Capi- tol knows that virtually every im- portant decision 18 made behind the closed doors of committee rooms. Power In Committeen. The new Senate committees will be made up of nine republicans and seven democrats. Among the repub- lican members of such important com- mittees as flnance, interstate com- merce and féreign relations, there will be at least a scattering of pro gressives and radicals. La Follette and his followers are going to fight for a majority of the republican places. But in any event the demo- crats will need the assistance of only one &o-called republican absolutely to block or command committee action, The conservative or old line repub- licans are depending upon democratic assistance to maintain the traditions of the Senate in giving the chairman ship of the more important commit tees to the senior republican member | of the committec. | The progressive and radical repub- | licans are depending upon democratic assistance to upset all the old tradi- | tions, and to turn the committees up- | side down. i Strange as it may seem both repub- | lican factions are likely to get the| asgistance they crave. The democrats will fight to main- tain_the old system of doling out | committee chairmanships, and fur- thermore they will undoubtedly as- | sist the radicals In their fight for ! recognition in the committee mem- | berships. In other words the demo- crats want the seniority rule to con- tinue, for they say they expect tol have full majority control of the| Senate within' the next two years and will then desire to organize the committees along the old line Thrive on “Ructions.’ But the democrats are_entirely out of sympathy with the old guard re- publican plans to “pack” the com- mitees with conservatives. They will aid and abet the progressives in stir- | ring up all the trouble p ible Democracy thrives on “ructlons” with- in the republican fold. The possibility of democratic success at the president- | fal polls in 1524 depends largely upon the split within the republican ranks and naturally as this split is more in evidence in the Senate than any other place, the demacrats will line themselves’ up at times with both republican factions. - In 'this way they expect to Show the in-| eapacity of the republichn majority in the Senate, as now constituted, to conduct the ‘public business The La Follette followers will fight desperately to upset the seniority rule, despite the fact that the rad ical senator from Wisconsin is the ranking member of both the finance and the interstate commerce com- mittees and in the ordinary course of events might expect to be elevated to the chairmanehip of one or the other of these important legislative bodies. The radicals know perfectly well that if Senator La Follette should come up for the chalrmanship of either committee, under the sen- iority rule the conservative elements of the party would forget all about precedent and tradition and vote him down and out if they had the power to do so. Old Hands at Wheel. The democrats are further strength- ened in the new Scnate by having 50 many old hands @t the committee Wheels. Whereas, five republican vacancies exist on the finance com- mittee, there.is but one democratic vacancy. Only John Sharp Williams of Mississippi will be missing from the democratic side of the table, and he retired voluntarily. Senator Simmons of North Carolina will continue to lead the democratic forces and will have the say as to whether or not there shall be any futher tariff legis- lation at the coming session of Con- gress. At the present writing the demo- crats belicve the tariff is working so poorly they would like to have it stay on the statute books until after the next presidential election. All of the democratic plans call for a “do nothing” session of Congress. iComing on the eve of a presidential iyear, the session will be governed throughout by politics. SHOT IN HEAD FATAL T0 COLORED PURSER Samuel Newman Dies of Wound Received on Excursion—Man Held in Slaying. { i ! i | Samuel Newman, colored, purser on the excursion steamer, E. Madison {Hall, who was shot through the head on the excursion grounds Sunday night, dled in the hospital in Alex- | andria, Va., last night. The scene of the shooting was in Prince Georges county, Md., and Con- stable Thomas H. Garrison today made a formal request of the police to surrender Emanuel Freeman, col- ored, twenty-elght, 3056 H street southwest, charged With the murder. A request also was made for the surrender of Gertrude Cole," colored, nineteen, 238 Parker street northeast, who was arrested Sunday night on the arrival of the steamer at the foot of 8th street southwest, when Free- man also was arrested. She.is charg: ed with being accessory. Rose Allen, resident of South Wash- ington, another River View excur- slonist, also 18 named in a magis- trate’'s warrant as an accessory, and Constable Garrison has asked the lo- cal police to arrest her. It is alleged Dby the Maryland constable that one n{ the women passed the weapon to Freeman and that the other took it from him after the shooting. Arrangements for holding an in- quest over the body of the slain purs- er have not been comipleted, but it probably will not be held for two or three d: It is probable that requi- sition papers will have to be obtained for Freeman. —— A new giant electric crane-shovel has been developed that can pick up twelve tons of earth and- rock at every “bite.” The massive excavator welghs 365 tons and is moved from place to place on double tracks. {have every possible protection against | fev {Michigan: | world, ought to have every poseible \Workhouse Prisoners Play Fair When Trusted, Says Moyer Prisoners at the District workhouse at Occoquan, Va., have been playing base ball on an open diamond during the past two years without a single escape or an attempted get-away, Wil- liam. H. Moyer, general superintendent of penal institutions, told the Gommis- sloners in his annual report foday. “Although the prisoners have shown a more active interest In prison work than last year,” said the superintend- ent, “they have also shown a more ac- tive interest in recreation, and it is to this fact that I ascribe their increased activities in prison work. Brick Oatput Big. The workhouse turned out 2,811,000 brick during the twelve months ended July 1, an increase of 69,200 over the previous year, despite a breakdown in the mlc'?Ihery that left the plant idie for a tinfe. Three inmates alone turned out brooms to the value of $2,333, which were used in District institutions, The Evening Star several days ago printed the populatien figures of the District jail for last year, but Gene Supt. Moyer today “summarises the records of the jail, Occoquan work- house and Lorton réformatory as fol- ows: o “At the jail the average population increased from 290 in 1922 to 320 in 1923; at the reformatory, from 179 in 1922 to 199 in 1023, and at the work+ house, from 269 in 1922 to 341 jn 1923, making a total increase In average population in these institutions of 122. The total dally average popula- tion was 882 in 1921, 738 in 1922 amd 860 in 1923, Coxts Kept Down. “It is gratifying to note that, not- withstanding this comparatively large increase in average daily population, the expenditures were kept within the appropriation, excepting in the matter of an additional appropriation of $10,- 000 for the purchase of coal for keep- 48 VOTES ARE PLEDGED FOR HIGH-PRESSURE PLAN (Continued from First Page.) Yes, set me down as vigorously favor- the proposition | Senator Arthur Capper of Kansas, | hairman of the committee on claims: | “I think it most important that the downtown section of the city should | fire. and I shall be glad to support an | adequate appropriation for the in-| stallation of the necessary additions to the water systen For Improving Capital. ator Furnifold McL. Simmons of North Carolina, ranking democrat on the committee on finance: “Of course I am not familiar with lllll! subject, but I have no hesitation In| saying that in a general way I am in favor of Congress co-operating with the city in making Washington what it should be—uan ideal eity in} Wi f nator Woodbridge N. Ferris of | present I am not ac- quainted with this situation, but rest| assured that as United States senator | {T shall try to serve the best intereats | jof the capital.” i Representative Hull of Teanessce, committee: “I shall be only tou glad ! to give every attention and con- ideration to the proposed aporopri- ation for a high-pressure system for Washington. 1 think there is much merit in the statement of facts re- garding th'e need for this legista- tion.” Interested In Profect. Rep. Daniel R. Anthony, jr., chair- man of the appropriations committee’s subcommittee on the Army budget: “This is the first I have heard of the proposition to Install additional wa. ter pressure for fire protection i Washington. I was very glad to sup- port and to attach to my bill last vear the item for the increased water ( supply for Washington. Should the | present fire protection be found upon { investigation to be inadequate from the standpoint of water pressure, 1 would be very glad, indeed, to co- operate along the lines of improving | it. 1 would be very glad to be advised | Jjust what is the pressure at the fire hydrants in the business section of Washington_ at the present time and just where ‘the present method of ! supplementing it by steamer pressure | fails to work satisfactorily.” Representative Willlam™ 8. Vare, | former member of the appropriations | committee, who i3 now a member oi the Pennsylvania state senate, but who has been re-elected to the House: ‘I am in full accord with the propo- sition, of having a high-pressure | water ‘System fnaugurated in the Dise trict of Columbla. Philadelphia has! had such .a system in the businese | part of the city for many years! and it is regarded as not only in- creasing the efficlency of fire service | and protective to property, but lowers | the cost of Insurance. 1 am serving | as a state senator in Pennsylvania at the present time, but should I| declde to return to Washington 1| will be glad to be helpful in the matter. Stromgly Favors Projeet. Representative oy G. Fitzgerald ! of Ohio, a very active member of the | House ~District committee, which | would pass upon the proposed legis- lation: “I am strongly in favor of a high-pressure and thoroughly ade- quate water supply system for Wash- ington. Our construction in this country, compared with that of Eu- rope tends to an enormous fire loss of something like $300,000,000 here. I am strongly in favor of fire protecting construction wherever possible, but above ail of any for safeguarding and protecting egainst fire and adequate measures for extinguishing those which do occur. Washington, the most beautiful and marvelous cily in the protection thrown around it.” | Representaitve Florian Lampert of | Wisconsin, who is being urged by his friends to be next chairman of the House District committee: “I am with you on_ this proposition. It should have been done long ago. Representative Ralph Gilbert of Kentucky, ranking democrat on the House District committee: "It is! strange my attention had not been called to this proposition before. The ruggestion rather appeals to me, but I do not like to commit myself without having a thorough investi- gation of the situation. Of course. Washington should have adequate fire protection. When I return to! ‘Washington in the fall I will be glad to give the mattér carly attention. Edmonds Pledges Ald. Representative George W. Edmonds of Pennsylvania, author of the ship subsidy legisiation and a strong ad-| vocate of the model insurance code for the District: “I am happy to tell you that I will support an appropri- ation for a high-presure water sup- ply for Washington. I think thisis a necessity and I know the value of it from our experience in my home city of Phlladelphia. I will be glad to assist in whatever way I can.” Representative Richard N. Elliot of Indiana: “I have not made any investigation of thid question, but if upon investigation it appears to be necessary for the Didtrict to have such & fire system I know of no rea- son why 1 should not support it It has been my policy, as a member of Congress, to cut out ail un- necessary appropriations possible, but 1 do not believe that our National Capital should be placed in jeopardy in _order to save a little mone: Reprosentative Charleés E. Fuller of Iilinols, chairman of the commi tee on invalil pensions:. “T pleased™ to advise you that I am for the protection of government prop- | stand on this question wi | the {of Texas: {chalrman of the democratic national | | posal. { position to support this legislation.” i ger supply. | household effects were concerned. So | time whether T am for it without a THE EVENING STAR, WASHINGTON, D. ., WEDNESDAY, JULY 25, 1923. DEMOCRATS T0 UM NEATU. . SENATE | { ing the brick plant at the workhouse in operation.” The execution of condemned men in the District by hanging Is character ized by the superintendent as a “rellc of barbarity.” It seems strange, he sald, that such a method should exist “almost within the shadow of the na- tion's capital. “The officials at the jail perform this duty as well and as humanely as it cAn be done, but even this falls far short of the best method of inflicting capital punishment.” Seeks Better Water. One of the outstanding recom- mendations of Mr. Moyer is that steps be taken to provide a modern water supply for the workhouse and re- formatory. “Wells have been sunk In the hope | of reaching good water in sufficient quantities to meet the needs of these Institutions, but thus far this has not | been successful,” reads tho report. Mr. Moyer gives his Indarsement to a proposed bill to provike for the commitment of all District convicts to the District fnstitutions, instead of sending large numbers of them to outside penitentiaries. This practice, he ways, Involves a large and increasing expense, where- as they could be Incarcerated at the city’s institutions with very little ad- ditlonal cost. New Buildings Progress. Seven unlts of the permanent build- ing program at the reformatory are | complete and three others are under | construction, The superintendent | recommends that the structures now finished be provided with heat, light and water and otherwise equipped be- fore others are started. The superintendent expresses the belief that the industrial railroad be- tween the reformatory and work- house will be completed this year. Accompanying the report of Mr. Moyer is a detalled statement (rnmi Julian A. Schoem, assistant superin- tendent in charge of Occoquan, out- lining the accomplishments of that | institution for the year. dectdedly in favor of providing for high-pressure water scrvice in the downtown section, at least, in the city of Washington and wiil cheer- fully favor the necessary appropria- | tion therefore. Against Delaying Pla Represontative Edwin E. Miiler, Illinois: “I am not familiar with the conditions of Washingtgn so far as the water supply is concerned. How. ever, I.shall favor any appropria- tion neces: o give the city full protection, wnd 1 do not favor any delay In s doing. From the state- ment of the case as presented to me it would scem that an appropria- tion of $500,000 to start the work would not be unreaconable.” Representative Charles L. Faust of Missouri: “Based on the statement of facts given me, my Inclination would be very strongly to favor the installation of some system that would provide more juate safe- guards against the possibility of destructive fires. 1 deem It the duty of Congress to provide without stint necessary equipment for the National Capital—and as much as possible each year for its beautific: tion mnd for the comfort of f{ts citizens.” Sces Merit in Proposal. Representative W. B. Bowling of Alabama: “This appears to be a meri- torious proposition, and I am now in- clined to give it my support.” { Representative Joseph J. Mansfield “You can put me down being In favor of everything reaso bly necessary to gi to the city of Washington a water pressure that will be ample for all requirements. Of course, the necessary showing will have to be made before the commit- tee on appropriations. In all prob- ability the recommendation of the director of the budget would be very likely to control in the matter.” Representative Percy Quin of Mi. sissippi: “I do not know until inve: tigation is made how I will vote on the high-pressure water system pro- 1L believe in the best protec- tion against fire and hope to be in a ad Would Favor Legislation. Representative Sid C. Roach, eighth | district, Missourl: “I am of the opin- | ion now that I would favor such an appropriation. I do not know of any reason just mow why I should not. As a business proposition it would Seem to be the thing to do.” Representative C. C. Dickinson sixth Missouri: “With a friendly and opgn mind, I will consider support- ing the appropriation.” Representative Willi ; elghth Qistrict, Kansas: “It is rather difficult to take a positive stand until | I am more familiar with the condi- tions and revenue. I do feel, how- cver, there should be something done to procure a high-pressure system for the capital for several reasons. First, on account of so much being at stake | in case of a conflagration in the (‘hy,’ There are many government build- ings that are not fireproof and a great fire would no doubt be a fearful loss to the government itself. Polnts Out Fire Peril. “Besides, I appreciate the fact that the water pressure in the capital at times Is very weak, even for domestic uses, and that the citizens of the Dis- trict are constantly called upon, espe- clally in the summer time, to con- serve the water because of the mea- I have seen- the time when 1 feit, should there be a fire in the apartment in which I live, there would be no escape S0 far as our A. Ayr naturally I am for high-pressute | water service, and I feel that some- things should be done, but I would not want to say positively at” this thorough investigation as to how the expense should be met. “I have always felt the National Capital was under obligations to the District of Columbla, or rather the city of Washington, but that the | District should at all times be ready to do ity part regarding these im- provements. After listening to the ! hearings upon this, I can give a posi- | tive answer as to how I stand, but| prior to that I feel I should not be positive.” Representative C. A. Christopherson, first district, South Dakota: "I would prefer to withhold any fixed opinion until after the appropriations com- mittee has passed upon the merits of the plan. If the committes approves | and recommends the appropriation, I| have no doubt but that Congress will accept the committee's judgment. 1 realize fully the necessity for the best | possible fire protection, but do noi care to commit myself until the com- | mittes haw investigated the matter iy ‘Will Study Proposition. Representative Edward J. King, Illinols: “I will give this matter my best consideration when Congress opens. ‘The statements I have re- celved make me favorably inclined toward the-proposition. Representative George N. Young, second district, North Dakotay "It would seem to me that the committee on appropriations ought to give care- ful consideration to this proposal, So far as I can see now, I expect to be gulded by the feport of that co mittee.” Refire!enut(ve John J. Boyland, fif- teenth district, New York: “I am pleased to advise you that I will be very glad to support such an appropriation. No possible means of protection should be overlooked in order to give adequate fire protection to the city of Washing- ton. It certainly would be a reflection upon the nation if fire should occur ith resultant loss of life and property. Tne historical bulldings of Washington, of which we are the presemt-day cus. todians, should be preserved and safe- guarded In every possible manner, in order that we may pass them on to pos- erity. Rest assured that I will co-op- erate In every way to secure the appro- pHation for this splendid purpose.” Representative John F. Quayle, sev- enth district, New York: “I am a strong bellever in making adéquate provisions [erty and government records, and have ioften wondered what might happen if JUDGE DISMISSES POISON-PEN CHARGE Refuses to Sustain Indfct- ments Returned Against George Maxwell. NEW YORK, July 25.—The indict- ments charging George Maxwell, presi- {dent of the American Associatioi of Authors, Composers and Publishers, with forging and sending to Allan A. Ryan and others poison-pet letters at- tacking the characters of Mrs. Ryan and a half dozen other women, were dismissed by General Sessions Judge Meclntyre today. Mrs.” Beatrice Gallatin, wife of Albert Gallatin, socially prominent, today came to the defense of Maxwell. Mrs. Gallatin, named with Mrs. Al- lan A. Ryan in'a brief filed yesterday by Assistent District Attorney Ma- loney opposing a motion to dismiss indictments returned against Max- well, denied she ever had accused Maxwell, a former piano tuner, of having penned the motes, Her hus- band, however, had taken to the dis trict attorney’s office a letter connect- ing her name with that of Maxwell. Helped by Maxwell. “Mr. Maxwell,” said Mrs. Gallatin, “gave Mr. Gallatin and me every possible assistance in trying to find the wrtier of the letters. “I met Mr. Maxwell at a dinner party. That was in December. 1 did not see-him again for a month, when wo met again at a dinner. Then he had dinner with Mr. Gallatin and me and rater we were his guests at din- n Then the letters began to come. I did not, as stated, meet Mr. Max- well at the home of Mrs. Eva Burn- side. 1 never thought Mr. Maxwell wrote those letters. I knew him But three monthe and only slightly. “Mr. Gallatin took the letters to he district attorney and retained brivate detectives. Inasmuch as Mr. Maxwell's name was included in the letters we naturally consulted with him. He gave us every possible as- sistance. He was a mostly gentle- manly, high-minded person. Sent Himself Notes. Maloney in his brief contended that in attacking the character of women In poison-pen letters he was alleged to have sent husbands, the ex-plano tuner sent himself a sim- ilar note to make it appear that he, too, was a victim of the author. Leferring to the contention of the progecutor that Maxwell knew what the letter to Gallatin contained, de- spite the fact that one page of the communication was missing, Mrs. Gallatin said: “I belicve something of the sorts was done by detectives, but 1 know none of the detafls of that incident. Mr. Gallatin and I were convinced, however, that Mr. Maxwell knows no more about the authorship of the let- ters than we do.” POLICEMAN IS CLEARED OF DISORBERLY CONDUCT Judge Schuldt Warns, However, Apgainst Discussion of De- cisions of Court. Policeman W. A. Shotter of the first precinct was defendant in the Police Court today, before Judge Schuldt, charged with disorderly conduct in the hallway of the Police Court build- | ing July 17. He was acquitted, but Judge Schuldt, in dismidsing the case, warned policemen that when cases in which they are interested have been disposed of in court they must not dis- cuss or comment upon the decision or disposal of the court. The evidence in the that Shotter was the witness in traffic against G. W. Murray, a former po- liceman, with offices” at 352 Munse: building. who was convicted of a mi- case showed complaining case, July 17, {rived home, has consistently refused to DR. MUIR, PASTOR 34 YEARS, RESIGNS Senate Chaplain to Leave Temple Baptist Church Puplit in REV. DR. J. J. MUIR. Rev. Dr. J. J. Muir, chaplain of the United States Senate, has tendered his resignation as pastor of the Tem- ple Baptist Church, 10th and N streets, where he served for thirty- four years. His resignation was read at the services last Sunday and will become effectlve in October. Rev. Dr. Mulr will continue his of- fices as chaplain of the Senate. Be- fore gaillng yesterday to Furope on the Aquitania he received many re- quests to keep his old charge. Dr. Muir replied that he intended living here at his home, 1317 Kenyon street, but would not take up another pa torate. He hag Leen active fu the minlistry for fifty years. Dr. Muir will remain abroad until September 9. During his trip he will spend most of his time in England and Scotland. He will preach at the Paddington Chapel, London, the first two Sundays of his stay. Born in Ireland, Dr. Muir was edu- cated in Europe. He was ordalned a clergyman of the Baptist Church in | the United States in 1869. He has| subsequently held charges in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania He accepted . the pastorship of the | Temple Baptist Church here in 1589, 1 He was appointed chaplain of the Senate in 1921, and has filled that po- sition since that time. EXPECT LAUNCHING OF JOHNSON BOOM iSenator to Give European Views at Testimonial Din- ner in New York Tonight. By the Assoclated Press, NEW YORK, July 25.—Senator Hi- ram Johnson, who returned Monday from a tour abroad, tonight will enunclate his views on foreign rela- tions at a testimonial dinner which | his friends have intimated will be the | occasion for the launching of & boom | for his nomination for the presidency v the republican party next year. Senator Johnson gho, since he ar- discuss either domestic or foreign poli- nor charge of violation of the traffic | tics, tonight will set forth European regulations; in the hallway and called him a liar, and then followed that up by apply- ing similar epithets to Miss Minnie C. Largent of 513 11th street north- west, who was a Wwitness in the case for Mr. Murray. Shotter denied the charges, saying that he did not call Murray or Miss Largent a liar., DALE SEEKS SENATE SEAT. MONTPELIER, Vt, July 25— Reprerentative Porter H. Dale last night announced he would be a can- didate for the United States Senate at a special clection to be held to hame a successor to the late Senator {Willtam P. Dillingham. fire started in any of the bulldings where irreplacable records are Kept. I understand that the government does not carty Insurance and therefore, so far as insurance itself is concerned, a high pressure system would not be an ald. Tt would undoubtedly be of con- siderable benefit to the business people of Washington in the matter of reduced insurance costs. “I am of the opinion that all cities of any size should have a high-pressure system for fighting fires, and I believe that if New York city and the borough that after the close of { impressions gleaned during four and the case Shotter approached Murray | one-half months traveling in seven countries. He has promised to set forth the attitude which “in my hum- ible opinion we should adopt toward : Europe." Though he has indicated that he will not discuss home affairs and will not state his probable attitude at the 1024 republican convenion, his friends predict that his message to the Amer- ican people tonight will contain more than merely European impressions. 4,000 Invitations Insued. Four thousand invitations have been sent out for the dinner. It is expected that many representative republicans and a number of members of Congress will attend. Senator Moses of New Hampshire, a more confirmed opponent of the been before, also will be a speake An informal call on Mayor E was made by Senator Johnson. The conference aroused considerable com- the fact that Mayor Hylan, in_a re- cent speech at Ogdensburg, N. gave observers a start when he d clared voters were drifting toward a of Brooklyn were not equipped with high-pressure systems, the fire losses would be greater than they are. I am perfectly willing to say that I may be considered in favor of any reasonable expenditure that will reduce fire hazard in_the National Capital.” Representative Knud Wefald, ninth district, Minnetota, who succeeds the veteran Representative Steenerson, chairman of the Post Office com- mittee: “From the facts before me I should say that T would support ch an appropriation, especlally as this year only $500,000 to start the work is to be ed. In a general way I know that the city of Wash- ington is not administered as it ought to be. I have read that the schools there are a_ long way ffom being what they should be. I think that the city of Washington should have the same kind of decent treatment in all respects that other cities of its ize have.” Hudson Backs Project. Representative Grant M. Hudson, sixth district, Michigan,' who suc- ceeds Representative Patrick H. Kelley, a veteran member of the ap- propriations committee: “From the facts as presented to me I would be inclined to favor such an appro- priation, not only for the protection of government property but for the city as well. You can count on my support.” Representative O. J. Kvale, seventh district, Minnesota, who succeeds Representative Andrew J. Volstead, recently chairman of" the judiciary committee: “Do not feel that 1 am well enough acquainted with the con- ditions obtaining in Washington to entitle me to an opinion in the prems ises until later on. From this als- tance the high-pressure proposition seems reasonable. Representative William W. Arnold, twenty-third district, Illinois: “I know nothing whatever of the con- ditions, but assure you I will take pleasure in looking into the matter when it is presented and try to In- form myself as to lts merits and advisability.” Representative William P. Holaday, ‘Who eicoeeds ‘“Unicle Joe”- Cannon: “The proposed improvements in the water service for the downtown sec- tion of the city of Washington ap- pear desirable, but I am not ace ?uflnl&d with the sityation and there- ore dannot state definitely what my 1 be." third party and away from the ranks of the democrats and republicans. Previous Conference. It also was recalled that Sanator Johnson and Mayor Hylan, whose ad- ministration is supported by news- papers owned by William Randolph | Hearst, held frequent conferences two years ago when New 20 Mty - tained the senator as special counsel in a legal battle over the transit sit- uation. £ SEEK TO SOLVE MYSTERY. Police Searching for Owner of Gar- ments Found in Bushes. A water and land search is being made by the police to establish the identity of owners of articles of wearing apparel found in the bushes near the bathing beach Monday. it was not until yesterday that the garments were turned over to the olice. They consist of blue over- alls, blue shirt, red sweater, pair of ( gloves and underwear. No hat was found. Harbor police dragged the river, While police of the other pre- cincts made inquiries throughout the city. K The clothing does not tally with the description of that worh by any bne reported missing, the police say. SUDDEN ILLNESS FATAL. Navy, Yard Employe’ Dies After Stroke in Luneliroom. Milton P. Townsherid, \dixty-three years old, 422 Kentue avenue southeast, ' yesterday Fridon was taken suddenly i1l while in a lunch- room at 631 Pennsylvanla avenue southeast. He was taken to Casualty Hospital, where he died last night. Coroner Nevitt gave a certificate of death from cerebral hemorrhage, and the body is resting in the chapel at Hysong's. The deceased was em- ployed in the navy yard. Arrange- ments for the funeral will not be completed until Mrs. = Townshend reaches home from Cahada. She s expected to réAch here tomorrow morning. who recently returned from abroad, | league of nations than he had ever | lan ! ment In political circles in_view of | PRESIDENT'S PARTY RESTS ABOARD SHIP Menderson Creeping Dowwm Coast and Will Reach Van- couver Tomorrow. ON BOARD THE U. S. 8, HENDER- SON WITH PRESIDENT HARDING, July 25.—Speech composition for Mr. Harding and resting for Mrs, Hard- ing comprised the, principal business of life aboard the Navy transport Henderson today as she crept forward jthrough the inside coast of British Columbia toward Vancouver, Where the President is to receive the greet- ings of Canada tomorrow. First in the President’s thought at this time is an address at Seattle, the first point he will touch after reach- ing the states, when he is expected to give some of the conclusions reached by him-om his Alaskan voy- age. FIVE LUNCHES PLANNED. Seattle Clubs to Entertain Alaska Party. SEATTLE. Wash.,, July 25.—Five luncheons Friday for members of the party of President Harding, who is to arrive that morning from Alaska via Vancouver, B. C., have been author- ized in _cable communication with George B. Christian, the President's secretary. The President will take lunch at the Seattle Press Club, Sccretary of the Interior Work will be the prin- cipal guest of the Arctic Club, Secre- tary Hoover of the Chamber of Com- merce and Secretary Wallace of the Rainier Club. The women of the party, with the exception of Mrs. Harding, will be entertained at the Sunset Club. Mrs. Harding, it is announced, will take part in no activities except to ride, in a, parade with her husband and 'to sit on the platform from which he makes his principal address. Friday has been proclaimed a holi- day by Mayor Edwin Brown, who asked the citizens to keep the lights burning in and about their homes until midnight. The Henderson, a cording to word recelved from Sew ard, Alaska, is to remain here o two hours after the President leaves her, and s to depart fér San Diego, where the President Is expected to re- embark to go to Porto Rico through the Panama canal. From Yesterday's SEA BATTLE LOOMS WITH RUM-FLEET Liquor Runners Threaten to Fill Dry Navy Full of Lead if Attacked. By the Associated Press NEW YOORK, July 25.—Marine war- fare between coast guards and the rum fleet off the Jersey coast looms among the .Interesting possibilities of the summer rum-running drive. Commander A. J. Ahearn of the coast _guard cutter Seminole, return- ing_from patrol about the fleet, re- ported to Capt. Reed, local chiettof the coast guard service, that he had heard threats to “fill the prohibition agents full of lead “If they fire on Capt. Reed ordered. The threats against the government forces came from' the British schooner Thorndyke, according to Ahearn. Late last night, he said, the Seminole ran alongside the Thorndvke and seized a motor dory laden with twenty ses of liquor. It was then, he that the threat to “fill 'em with cad” was voiced. The seminole de- parted with her prize before any shots were fired. The rum fleet, Ahearn covers a stretch of thir off the coast and includ British, French -and regist you, return it Norwegian From Yesterday's 5:30 Edition of The Star. SOVIET-JAPANESE PARLEY BREAK SEEN Excessive Demands of Latter in Recognition Conference Be- lieved to Be Cause. 4 @y the Associated Press MOSCOW, July 24—TIt is under- stood in reliable quarters here that ipreliminary negotiations looking to an_untimate reopening of relations {with Japan seem likely to be broken joft owing to what are characterized as the excessive demands of Japan An official statement on the subject i3 expected shortly. M. Karakhan, one ister Tchitchérin's ha of near ea ; will probably Re appointed Russia’s representative in China. He Is expected to leave for China by the end of next week. of Foreign Min- sociates, in flairs at From Yesterday's 5:30 Edition of The Star. SPEEDERS PAY HEAVILY. Two Fined $100 Each, While Others Pay Up to $45. Three defendants, charged with reckless driving of their automobliles, were nssessed ‘heavy flnes in the Traffic Court yesterday. Erkay Pavion was fined $25, Charles Stockton, §100. and Thomas J. Finley, $100, and an additional fine of 318 For ‘a minor Violation of a traffic regulation. Speeders paying fines were: Carl Sontag, Edward J. Bruce and Herbert Russell, each, paid $20; Charles Col- lins, colliding, $40, leaving without making his Jdentity known, $40; Sam- uel W. Carter, speeding and no per- mit, $45; Burton Buslin, speeding on the Conduit road, $20; Harry Lowe, colliding, $25, and no permit, $5 From Yesterday's 5:30 Edition of The Star. Wireless Guides French Planes in ~ 250-Mile Flight By the Assoefated Press. PARIS, July 2.—A French gov ernment airplane has success- fully completed a flight from the St. Assises awireless station to Tours ang return, a total of about 2560 miles, steering only by the “wireless. The Indications were received on an aparatus called the radio gonlometer, which showed the airplane’s position with rela- tion to the wireless station. This device enabled the pilot to make the journey with an error of only two per cent in direction in the outward flight and with e‘l‘fllre accuracy in the in flight, The test was announced as satis- factorlly proving the practicability of such a method for night flying. \ i gl i Cold water is bettdr for floor scrub- bing than warm, as it will dry quickly and not sink inte the boards, causing them to rot. . - J B 4