Omaha Daily Bee Newspaper, January 4, 1895, Page 5

k ¥ f 4 N - i THE OMAHA DAILY BEE: FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 1895 HOLCOMB 1N OFFICE] (Continued from Second Page.) last resort if necessary, in order to definitely establish the rights of the state. It this be not done it will be for you to consider whether a new law be enacted or whether 10 let the present ome stand until the busi- ness of the state shall have grown up to it, when, under the present ruling, it could be put in operation, AUTOMATIC CAR COUPLERS. By a law enacted in the year 1891 and to Ro into effect in January, 1895, companies operatng lines of rallroad in this state are required to provide thelr cars with automatic couplers and their locomotive engines with power or “drive brakes.” As the lines of roud in this state are parts of great systems extending widely into other states and over which a multitude of cars and engines are used Indizeriminately, a compliance with the law necessarily requires much time and a great outlay of mone tie enactment of this law congi an act ap- proved March 2, 189 tod a simila act applicabla to of the United States engaged in_interstate commerce, but fixiog the time when it shall go into effect January, 1808, In order to subject com- panies in this state engaged in Interstate as well as in state commerce to no needless em- barrassment for expense in the adjustment of their cars and engines and with a view to_avoiding any conflict of jurisdiction under different laws 1 would recommend that the law of 1801 be amended g0 as to conform in fts esseutinl points to the law of the United States, and that the time for its going into operation bo extended to January, 1598, The Russian thistle, a most dangerous pest and one which has proved very damaging to some of the ates on onr north, has in- vaded our territory, and no effizt should be omitted to expel it. The maliis has been called to the attention of our people by Pro. Beasey of the Siate university and by action taken by the Boards of Agriculture and Horticulture. Any aid that legislation can give toward its exterm nation and in re- sisting its vasion should ne given. Chapter 57 of the session laws of 1889, which had for its object the amendment of the law relating to the descent of the property of intestates, was recently, in the case of Trum- ble vs Trumble, found in volume 3 braska Reports, ared invalid by supreme court because of certain violations of the constitution occuring in its pa It may be proper, therefore, for you to sider whether the settlement of ostate: der the act before it tutional should not be action of yours. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS. It is no doubt evident to you that experi- un- declared unconsti- legalized by some ence has shown that the present state con- stitution, which was adopted twenty years ago, is in need of amendment and that pro- vision should be made for submitting any proposed amendments at the earliest day possible. Among the amendments which havo been suggested are: st—An ent of the to five or seven members, Sccond—An amendment of the article rela- tive to the supreme investment of the permanent #chool fund. Third—An commission with q Fourth—Itequiring all birth to become full citiz ing the right to vote. Fifth—Glving the legislature authority to ereate additional executive officers under the Festriction of a three-fourths vote of the legislature and approval of the governor, It should be so arranged that the vote on any proposed amendments should be priuted on separate ballots or given such place on the regular ballot as not to be overlooked or disregarded by the voters, Until an increase of the supreme court is effected by a constitutional amendment the commission whose appointment was provided for by an act of the legislature of 1893 and whose term of office is limited by the act to three years, should be continued. TAKING A STATE CENSUS. Tho constitution makes it incumbent upon the legislature to provide by law for an enum- eration of tle Inhabitants of the state in the year 1885 and every ten years thereafter. It i3 presumed that the legislature will do What the constitution enjoins and that you will provide for an enumeration this year. ‘There has been little change in number and location of inhabitants since the national census of 1890, and but little benefit is to be derived from the required census. When it Is cons dered further that such an enumera- thon would cost about $30,000 you would be forgiven by all but those anxious to do the work If you were to dizobey this injunction of the constitution. Representatives the dairy inter- ests of the state ask that attention be called to the importance of the enactment of some law which will provide the means for distinguishing oleomargarine or butterine from pure batter. In protecting their own, they are not disposed to assail another ‘Industry, but they insist that the product of each should stand on its own merits and that buyers and consumers should not be deceived Into the use of one to the prejudice of the other. The request seems 0 be a reasonable one. NATIONAL GUARD. The value of a national guard (an organi- zation which Is too frequently regarded as ornumental and useless) has been well dem- onstrated in this as in other states during the troublesome times through which the country has recently passed. Twice in the short history of Nebraska has its services been required. The existence of a well or- ganized militia in a state Inspires a respect for law and tends 'to repress turbulecce ‘which might otherwise break forth and do damage to life, property and reputation of the state beyond the cost of its maintenance. ‘The Nebraska National Guard, under the ef- flcient direction of Adjutant General James D. Gage, was never more thoroughly organ- ized, equipped and disciplined than today, ‘The material of which it is composed is most excellent and a feeling of pride runs through the whole organization, from general to pri- vate, which promises effective servico in case of need. The general goverament con- tributes annually $6,972.96 in quartermaster and ordnance supplies, conditioned that the state maintain a reasonable military force. I recommend a reasonable appropriation for the use of the guard. In the report of the adjutant general will be found full Informa- tion concerning the Natlonal Guard of the state, including an account of it service in repressing disturbance at South Omaha in August last. PUBLIC SCHOOLS. The report of the superintendent of public instruction shows that, owing, no doubt, to the stringency of the times, there was a fall- ing oft in the money expended for the sup- port of public schools in the year 1894 as compared with the year 1893—from $5,149,748 in 1893 to §4,745,500 in 1894, At the same time it is gratitying to note that the average daily attendance at kchool rose from 161,152 in 1893 to 171,198 {n 1894, The State Normal school at Peru 18 in a flourishing condition, and is doing much good in meeting the demand for a higher grade of teachers for the common sehools of the state, A pifisant visit to that institution assured me that the work done there is thorough, and the condition of things as I fourd them testifies to the zealous care exercised by the Board of Education and the pride it has in its charge. My attention has been called to the fact that the supply of water there has recently falled. As the buildings are not insured this matter should have prompt attention. THE STATE UNIVERSITY. The State university, under the active and energetic direction of its present chancellor, has obtained a wonderful growth in attend- ance and has taken high rank among similar institutions of the land. In considering the ts of the university as respects room, it 13 well to consider that quite a large fraction of those enrolled are in attendance upon the preparatory school and are not university Btudents proper. This preparatory depart- ment 15, in a sense, a high school, which, with its superior advantages, naturally in. vites a large local attendance. Of the 1,156 upils In attendance, and whose place of Fes- idence 15 given in the last report of the re- gents, 671, or about 60 per cent, are eredited to Lancaster county, and presumably mostly from the city of Lincoln. The regents an- nounce their determination to gradually drop the preparatory work. This conclusion is a proper one. 1t will not only limit the work Of the institution to the object contemplated 1o the law establishing it, and for which the bounty of the general government and the support of the state are liberally glven, but will be something of a guide in determining whether any additional room should be pro. wvided, and if so, how much. ‘The comprehensive report of the regents covering the biennial period just closed will be laid before you, and will give you much desired information respecting the institu- © Mlon, It closes with a statement of its 'sons_of foreign s before acquir- of needs, which inelude the large sum of $455,- 000 for new buillings and appurtenances, and repairs of old ones, besides the usual amount for current expenses. The request comes at a time when both the condition of the treasury and tie condition of our people can illy respond to it. While I share in the Just pride the people of the state fesl in the university, and eppreciate the Importance and desirability of providing the higher edu- cation for our young, yet I cannot the suggestion that with the state, as with and ability to pay It must be copsidered in conneetion with the question of desirability. OTHER STATE INSTITUTIONS. 1 eannot undertake in the compass of this message to make special reference to all the state institutions, 1 have only done so in cases where I have thought such reference desirable, In the reports made by their sev- eral heads will be found an aceoust of their this communication will be found an account of the amount of money that has been ex- pended for the maintenance of each and for what purpose expended. I have received and pald over to the state treasurer funds as follows Drafts from the ederal government alf of Soldi and Sailors' 5 s $19,164.97 t proceed nds in Nebr 16, ot returney sale 10's fair fees.... from furniture. . Total seseetanne 3 In relinquishing an_ offic came to me In a mauner highly complimentary, I do s0 with the consciousness of having tried to be of service to the people of the state who have £o frequently honored me. How well I have succeeded they must decide. I shall carry with me pleasant recollections of the Kindly relations which have existed between myself and those with whom I have been as- soclated, or had to deal with in an official GOV IRNOR HOLCOMB'S 1 UGURAL. Deals with the Bal t Law, Rellof, Irriga- tion, Railroad Leglslation and Economy. The inaugural message of Governor Hol- comb was as follows Fellow citizens of the legislative department of the state of Nebraska: 1 have been called by my fellow-citizens of Nebraska to serve them as governor of the state. In your presence I have just taken the pre- sribed oath of office, and, agreeable to time- honored custom, 1 will now address you briefly before entering actively upon the dis- chargo of the important duties of the office. I am Indeed deeply impressed with the grave responsibilities I have assumed. I am fully aware of the manifold and arduous duties attaching to the office to which I have just been inducted. Were I called upon to encounter at one time all the perplexing difl- culties to be met, well might I be appalled at the magnitude of the undertaking; but, encouraged by an earnest desire to faithfully administer the duties of the office, I am hope- ful of being able to master these difficulties singly as they arise with a reasonable degree of satisfaction to the people of the state, of whom I am but an humble servant. It shall be my disinterested and unselfish purpose to direct my entire efforts to the faithful and mpartial observance of the constitutional pro- vision, which declares ‘“that the supreme executive power shall be vested in the gov- ernor, who shall take care that the laws are faithfully executed” to the end that govern- ment may prevail, and the rights of each and every citizen be zealously guarded and pro- tected. In assuming the onerous duties of this office, I am able to content myself with the thought that there is a right way and a wrong way to decide each perplexing question, and, with a firm determination to ascertain the right and then adhere to it, I hope the burdens may be lessened, the work simplified and the duties fully discharged. ~ Although possess- ing various political beliefs, we, as legislators and executive, should have but one great ob- Ject in view, to discharge the duties imcum- bent upon us in a business-like manner for the common good of all. Each of you, as a legislator, has been elected as the advocate of the praiciples of some political party, but today you represent all the people of your district. In my capacity I shall earnestly endeavor to be the governor of all the people. As the representatives of political ideas you WL probably have but one duty to perform, tho election of a United States senator; in your capacity as representatives of the peo- ple of your district you will doubtless have many matters of great importance to con- sider. The proncunced majority of one political party in both branches of the legislature will doubtless insure the election of a representa- tive of the state in the senate of the nation without unnecessary delay. In disposing of the business of my fellow citizens in the capacity of governor, I solicit your counsel and hearty co-operation. I apprehend that our relations will be mutually cordial and agreeable and redound to the good of the entire people, whom we alike serve. Possessing no knowledge of the various departments of the state government, other than enjoyed in common by all our citizens, it is not my intention, nor do I deem it to be my duty, to enter Into a de- talled discussion of the management and re- quirements of these departments. In his message my distinguished predecessor, Governor Crounse, has given you much valu- able information and advice to aid you in the discharge of your duties. Its compre- hensiveness and completeness in detail com- mends it to you as legislators and to me as his succsssor for our caretul consideration. UNTRAMMELED SUFFRAGE. The preservation of the sanctity of the ballot is necessary to the perpetuation of self-government, It is by tfie ballot that the volce of the people is heard and their will registered touching all matters connected with the affairs of the state. A failure to give to each elector the privilege of casting his ballot, without fear or favor, according to the dictation of his consclence, s to that extent a failure of popular government. Each citizen posessing the right of fran- chise should have untrammeled freedom in expressing by his vote his individual senti- ments agreeable to his own conception of duty as a citizen without regard to his sta- tion in life, his education, his occupation or the degree of intelligence with which he has been endowed by his Creator. It Is your duty to sacredly guard this right to your fellow electors and to reduce to the absolute mini- mum any infringement of it. Especially does it seem to me that the employes of the larger corporations should, by wise leglsiation, have such protecting cars thrown about them that they may in the exercise of the right of suffrage act without any fear whatsoever from the displeasure of thelr employers, whose political convictions may be different from their own. It {s undenied that the Australian Ballot law was a needed reform and has done much towards purifying elections in Nebraska, but I am confident it would grant a priviege without mischief if the law should be amended by you so that the elector can designate, where it is possible, his choice of candidates and-at the same time express by his ballot his political convictions. I would respectfully, suggest that each poiitical party have a fair percentage of the vote in any district should have representation on the election board, and that not more than two judges should be selected from any one political party, There can be no more im- portant subject for the earcful consideration of law makers tham the protection of the purity of the balot, and T would most re- spectfully call your attention to our exlsting election ‘laws and invite a comparison to those of other states to the end that amend- ments may be made rendering bribery and and undue influence of the voter more nearly impossible and facilitating the more rapld and accurats counting of votes. DROUTH SUFFERERS I regret the necessity demanding a care- ful consideration of the actual want of a great number of our people caused by the drouth of last year. Nature has bountifully blessed Nebraska. Her climate fs unexcelled and her soil responds generously to the labor of the husbandman. For years prior to 1890 there was an uninterrupted era of good erops. Rapidly the domain of the rancher was en- croached upon by the farmer. From varlous states came an energetic class of good citi- zens to make thelr homes in western Ne- braska. Generally they were poor, and de- pended upon the first season's crop to supply themselves and families with all the im- medlate necessities of life, and until 1890 they never relied in valn, Then came on» sea- son when the accustomed rains failed to fall and hot winds swept over the country, carry- ing devastation to the fields of growing graln. Since then there have becn altermately good and poor crops, culminating in the general drouth of 1894 While this drouth extended repress | the family or individual, the question of cost | transactions and an estimate of their wants | while in the table which will be appended to | practically over the entire country, It was particularly disastrous in the western part of the state. Distressed by combats with pre- | vious partial crop fallures, many farmers | with only moderate means were wholly un- | prepared to meet the drouth. Many had been unable, on account of the short time of thelr | residence, to store up grakn sufficient to mest the exigencies of this extraordinary occa- | sion. Some removed from the e, but the great majority, possessing the utmest faith in the country, remained, determined to hold on to their possessions In the drouth stricken | district. 1t patiencs and long suffering make | people deserving, the harvest of 1895 should be bountiful. Our great state is able to take care of its own poor, and many of the county boards have, with commendable energy, provided work with compensation for the able-bodied needy | in their own countics, but there is still ne- y for quick relief to be extended to y portions of the state, so that all her people may be comfortable during the present winter and have aa opportunity to seed and work their ground for the coming harvest. I know some claim that the legislative body has no right to make the people donate to the needy, and that such work should be left | to individuals who are charitably inclined; | but every government Is in duty bound to| provide at public expense the necissities to sustain life to its own needy inhabitants, and | especially is this the case when the needy | are without fault on their part | The relief commission cre: of 1890 is still in existen 1t was re- vived and the vacaucies filled by my pre- decessor, Governor Crounse, and has been actively engaged in the work of assisting the deserving needy by distributing food and clothing furnished by charitably in- clined people from every section of the country. These commissioners have doubt- less expended money in the work, relying on the legislature to make provizions to In- demuify them for necessary expenses in- curred, and their services will be required until sced is sown in the spring for an- other crop. In order to effectively carry on the work of assiscing the deserving drouth sufferers with the least possible ex- pense, T would respectfully suggest that the laws of 1890 be remodeled and that reliet appropriations sufficient to supply the nece sities of these people during tha winter be placed in charge of the commissioners for distribution, under such safeguards as mo be deemed wise, in order that only the needy recelve ald, and that no unnecessary ex- pense be incurred. HOW TO MAKE IT PRACTICAL. ed by the law ‘1 feel confident that the great railways of the state will the distribution with free transportation, or, at least, with greatly reduced rates. I would further suggest that legislation be had so that each county in the more severely afflicted portions of the state may be able to vote bonds, which may be made a very proper mode of investment for a large sum of the now idle permanent school fund, in order to provide ready means to secure seed to sow and grain for sto for the coming crop season. 1If on Investi- gation 1t is deemed wise and practical, it will be well to consider whether special assessments may not be levied on the land where the seed is furnished, or by some other means require of the beneficiary to repay in installments the value of the grain furnished, together with interest commen- surate with tho rate the bonds bear. It is well to bear in mind that the people thus to be favored are not asking for charity. They are a hardy set of farmers who have been struggling against adversities over which they have had mo control, and they ask temporary assistance merely to tide over the present difficulty, and will gladly make repayment for all the seed and grain thus furnished. This subject I regard as one of pressing importance, demanding your first energles in your work as legislators in order that suitable enactments may be made as speedily as possible, and at the same time with due consideration of the work to be done, so that the result of your labors shall meet the exigencies of the occasion and also re- celvo that degree of deliberation and care which should characterize all legislation. I trust, gentlemen, that you will at once direct your attention to this subject and make such disposition of it as in your wis- dom you may deem proper. IRRIGATION MOST IMPORTANT. One of the most important subjects you will have to deal with during this session, and one far reaching in its results, is ir- rigation. The subject has been gradually growing In favor with the people, especially west of the one hundredth principal meridian. Its merits have been Investigated and proven by actual tests, and it Is now an accepted fact that very large areas in the western portion of the state, where the small amount of rainfall renders the maturity of crops precarious, can, by a proper system of ir- rigation and because of the excellence of the soil and the otherwise favorable cli- matic conditions, be made to yield most bountifully and 'with unvarying certainty. The subject is a lve one. Too much care cannot be given to the esactment of laws to meet every requirement of our local con- ditions in this regard. Tha great waterways in the state and on its borders have heretofore in early spring run banlk-full of water. In the early summer they have joined with the waters of the Mississippi and Ohio, and many seasons have spread devastation over the fertile bottoms of Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessce, Mispissippl and Louisiana, while tion ‘of a portion of Nebraska. was in many places withered and dying for want of water. The government has seen fit to expend millions of dollars in the construction and maintenance of great levees to protect the property and lives of the people residing along the rivers in the south. Would it not conserve a double purpose and be productive of inestimable good to both sections if the government would direct its efforts toward turning the waters of the western tribu- taries of the Mississippi river into great res- ervoirs and thence into irrigating ditches for the development of sections of the coun- try which now produce very little? A proper system of frrigation would doubt- less make the fertile plains of Nebraska and similar states produce an inexhaustible sup- ply of the sweetest vegetables and best cereals, and thus by spreading the water in the spring time would reclaim the great river bottoms of our southern neighbors and make them the kings of corn and cotton countries. I am not familiar with the practical work- ings of irrigation, but your body contains some members who have given considerable time to the investigation of the subject, and a few who have had years of practical ex- render valuable service in advising and render valuable servico An advising and framing practical legislation. From the in- vestigation I have been able to give to this important subject I do not hesitate to recommend a district irrigation law, to be fromed from the good which may be found in Wyoming laws on the subject, and to be guarded by a clause enabling the users of the water' to control its distribution and price, o that It may be.to them a source of pecuniary benefit rather than an engine of oppression in the hands of speculators. A good law on this subject so framed as to protect the rights of those directly inter- ested In irrigation will substantially er courage the work, and drouths and conse- quent suffering will no longer menace the | welfare of the people. RAILROAD LEGISLATION, The fundamental law of the state declares that the rallways in Nebraska are public highways and shall be free to all persons for the transportation of their property and persons thereon, under such regulations as may be preseribed by law. It gives to the legislature power to pass laws fiom time to time establishing a reasonable maximum rate of charges for the transportation of pas- sengers and freight. It also declares that the legislature shall enact laws to correct abuses and prevent unjust discrimination and extortion in charges by express, tele- graph and railroad companies. The railroads of this state have been one of the most important factors in bringing about its rapid development, and it s of utmost importance to all citizens of Ne- braska that his great interest be sustained | and encouraged. To the construction of the present extensive system of railways in braska may be ascribed in a great measure the material prosperity of the state. It is an erroneously conceived idea, and | quite prevalent, that the interest of the railways and the people of the state are inimfeal. | In fact, the success of each lies principally | | in the prosperity of the other. The earn ings of the raflroads depend on the amount of business tue people ar able to do, and the people in turn of business the peopie are able to do, the people in turn must look to the railw ¥ for the tramsportation both of thelr surpli commodities to market and of the art of consumption they must obtain from others. Hetween the two there should Ilulu-‘ rally exist the utmost degree of reciproeity. Nutwithstanding the feeling known to exist among the people that they have been bur- | a dened by oppressive(;fetes on transporta- tion, T am certain that there is no demand on thelr part for ay’ unjust action that would tend to eripple' the great highways of commerce. Justly by the railway corporations, and in turn’ demand only falf treatment in the matter of charges ferifveight and passenger transportation. The subject has been one of constant fric- tion and annoyance 'batween the people and the railroads for severalsyears past. In vari- ous ways and at different times attempts have been made at legislation for the purpose of settling this question, but so far they have been without complete snccess, rhe Board of Transportation as it now exists under the law is entirely unsatisfactory and is generally regarded as of little value to the people. Railroad commissioners elected by the people, with power to regulate all charges of this character, would, in my judg- ment, nearest approach a proper solution of this difficult problem. This, however, cannot be done without amending the constitution. There has been one submission of the ques- tion to the people and it failed to receive the requisite vote, yet I am persuaded it was more the result of the excitement at- tending a political campaign, causing the people to averlook this important question, than 1t was of disapproval or want of real interest in the matter on the part of the people, 1 am of the opinlon that if a constitutional amendment creating a board of railroad com- issloners, with ample power in the prem- could be submitted to the people, it a0 recelve, thelr approval by an over- whelming majority, and I believe this vexed question could be nearer settled satisfactorily in that than in any other manner. SHOULD APPEAL FROM BREWER. Different attempts have been made to enact into law a maximum freight rate bill, culminating in the passage of the house roll number 33 during the session of the preceding legislature. This bill was approved by the governor, and but for the proce in- Junction issued out of the federal court would now be in operation. You are each doubtless ot somewhat familiar with the history of the case and the recent decision handed down by Judge Brewer of the United States circuit court. The question now naturally arising is whether the decision shall be accepted as final or provisions be made for appealing the case and tl this very important matter from a court of last resort. The points in controversy are of vital interest to the people of Nebraska. It would doubtless be better if an final decision by the highest judiciai tribunal of the land could be obtained in order th there might be a full, fair and accurate un- derstandiug as to the respective rights of the people and the railroad companies touching the questions involved. T have no intimate knowledge of the his- tory of the case, of the issues raised therein or of the cvidence adduced on the hearing of the case. From reading the opinion of the learned judge deciding the case, I understand that every disputed question is found in favor of thoe state save the one of the alleged unreasonableness of maximum charges as fixed by the bill. With all due respect to the distinguished judge, and thor- oughly appreciating the difficulties as ex- pressed by him surrounding a question of this kind, T am inelined to the belief that the conclusion reached is based on an erroneous conception as to the proper basis for esti- mating the costs and earnings of the roads. In the first place, it occurs to me that justice and equity would indicate that the proper basis for the purpose of fixing fair and just vates would be a present reasonable value of tho roads, rather than what may have been expended in_their construction by useless ex- travagance, bad management or the increased expenditures at such'a time as compared with the present. [ Another element in this ease, which seems to me to be wortlly of consideration, and which I fail to find’any notice of in the de- cision of the honorable judge, is that of the reasonableness of the expenditures for oper- ating the roads, and which are taken out of the gross earnings, theraby reducing the net earnings. If these operating expenses are unreasonable, it reduces the amount which goes to meet the demands of the bondholders and stockholders. It would seem that if the stockholders come into court, alleging that the rates fixed by the bill are tao low, they should be required to make a full and complete showing, not only as to the net earnings of the roads, but also the Income from all sources, and ali expendi- tures, and for what purpose made. Kree transportation, rebates, i’ any, and other like sources of expenditure or failure to collect revenue rightfully belonging to the road are all elements to be considered in order to ar- rive at a wise and just decision in a case of that kind. With the Information you have already received, and, after consultation with those who have had charge of this case, if you, in your wisdom, deem it expedient to acquiesce in the decision rendered by Judge Brewer, 1 have no doubt of your ability to enact a law which will be fair to the people, just to the railroads and at the same time violate no constitutional rights of either. FREE TRANSPORTATION. The subject of granting free trarsportation to persons holding the more important offices in the state has occupied the attention of the public mind more or less and has been a fruitful theme of*discussion in Nebraska for several years. I understand that the state of New York, with her great mileage of rail- roads, has very recently adopted a constitu- tional provision prohibiting the issuance to or the acceptance by the different elective officials in that state of free passes to travel on railroads. It may well be questioned whether Nebraska, by legislative enactment to accomplish a similar purpose, may not very properly emulate the example of New York. It Is a custom of long standing and univer- sal practice for railroad officials to grant frea transportation to state oficials and members of the legislature. I do not appre- hend that these passes are given with the intent of unduly influencing official action or legislation favorable to the corporations, nor do I believe the users of this transportation feel that they are placed under any obliga- tion that would render them incapable of honest ard unprejudiced action. They are doubtless given as a matter of courtesy and accepted as such. The motive involved is perhaps different from that in the case of the individual who carries free transporta- tion because of his alleged political Influence, or the indiscriminate use of free transporta- tion at political conventions and during cam- paigos, whereby a fair and impartial expres- sion of the will of the people is prevented. 1 am of the opinion that the very general The peoplei are willing to deal | creby obtaining final decision on | carly and | issuance of passes to individuals ts pernicions in its influence, has a tendency to debauch the public mind, and should be opposed to the same extent as the possession of free transportation by those in official life. In cither Instance there must naturally follow a corresponding reduction In the net earnings of the railroads and an Incidental increase in the cost of transportation to the individ citizen not so favored. 1 can tes no differ- ence in principle in discrimination in_passen- ger traffic than in freight traffic. The sy tem is wrong in principle, and I respectfully recommend to your careful consideration the propriety of enacting a law to prevent the issuance of fres transportation and fts ceptance by officials or persons in prival lifo save the bona fide employes of the rail- road companies. ARBITRATION. The oft-recurring difficulties between the larger institutions and corporations in the state and their emplcyes seem to demand the attentlon of law makers. ome mode of ar- bitration looking toward a sett 1t of these | difficulties in their Inciplency—long before | they have a med undue proportions, threat ening the peace and welfare cf the state— and preserving to both employers and em: ployes their right under the law, would seem | | to be a satisfactory solution of the matter. CLOTH and Ii\il](l and 30VS INTE T ON STATE WARRAN There 1s now, and has been for some fime past, & large floating indentedness existing | against the state, evidenced by remistered | warrants on the state treasury. These war- rants are of undoubted security, thereby | making them much ht for as an inv | ment by those engaged in that business, | | Under the law they draw interest at t rae of 7 per cent per annum, causing them | to command in the market as s istered a premium of from 1 to It occurs to me a great savin made to the state and an injury lone it the interest on state n as reg- per cent might be done to no warrants be m led to believe crest at the | ent will always \n‘] value as an investment. A SITY OF ECONOMY. It Is needless for me (o attempt to impress on you the n ity for the greatest possible economy in the public busine with the proper administration of the reduced 1 to 1% per cent. 1 state warrants drawing and that | rate of 5% worth their 6 por of state. By economy is not meant such par- nony as will curtail the usefulness of institutions or render less eflicient branch of the state business, but such watch- ful care in the expenditures as will reduce to the minimum the burdens of the payers, which have been rendered especi oppressive by the present depressed tions in all branches of busine Tho press of other business prevented me from giving more attention to subjects vou will probably have to consider during It occasion requires I shall te further by specjal messag I am desirous of extendingto you as legis- lators all means within my power which may in any way assist you in enacting wise and just legislation. And I trust when the work of this session Is done it may redound to the good of all the people of the entire state, I trust that your work during the short time your labors will be required will fully demonstrate the wisdom of the people in selecting you as their representatives in tha legislative department. Relying for guidance upon the All Wise Ruler of the destinies of nations, let us take up the work to which we have been called by our fellow citizens and disc our duties honestly, fearlessly and faithfully. PROPOSED, condi- NINE NEW LAWS Scnators Open the Flood of Bills Promptly at the First Opportunity. LINCOLN, Neb., Jan. 3.—(Special)—The senate this forenoon commenced its efforts to bring the Consolidated Statutes of Ne- braska nearer to absolute perfection, accord- ing to the legislative mind, than it is at present. Most of the semators hardly ex- pected an opportunity to introduce their favorite measures today, and the first call only brought out nine bills, Watson of Otoe, taking the senate by surprise, secured the coveted honor of having his name affixed to senate fiie No. 1. The first bill has for its purpose an amendment to the law in- corporating cities of the first class having less than 25,000 and more than 8,000 in- habitants, and to legalize all the proclama- tions, acts, doings and procecdings of the governor of Nebraska, etc. The bill is de- signed to legalize and correct some technical errors in the administration of the city g errment of Nebraska City. The bill in no way affects the general provisions of the law applying to cities of the class referred to, Senate file No. 2, by Senator Graham, to amend the Consolidated Statutes of Nebraska, section 5,032, provides that the owner of any real estate against which a decree of fore- closure has been rendered in any court of record, and the owners of any real estate levied upon to satisfy a judgment or decree of any kind, may redeem the same from the lien of such decree or levy at any time be- fore the sale of the same by paying into court the amount. of such judgment, together with all interests and costs; and any such real estate may be redeemed by the owner or any judgment creditor between the day of sale and the time when such sale shall be confirmed by a court of competent jurisdic- tion by paying into court the amount bid by the purchaser for such real estate at sherift’s sale, with interest from date of sale to day of redemption. TACKLED THE THISTLE. Senate file No. 3, by Campbell of Nance, provides for the destruction of the Russian thistle, It is simple and direct, and pro- vides that every man shall destroy the ob- noxious weeds on his own premises. Thistles growing on the public highways shall be destroyed by the road supervisors and the cost taxed up against the abutting land. It also provides a penalty for violation of the law. Senate file No. 4, by Bressler of Wayne, also provides for the destruction of the Rus- sian _thistle. Its provisions are similar to the bill for the same purpose offered by Campbell. Senate file No. §, by Crane of Douglas, 15 a bill applying especially to Douglas county. It amends the law relating to officers’ salaries s0 as to provide that in counties having more than 75,000 inhabitants the county judge shall be entitled to a salary of $3,000 per annum, Senate file No. 6, also by Crane of Doug- “(Continued on venth Page.) on your paiflt and wood work, too. And what a difference to every one in the house wh and easily and without any fuming and fretting! ought to get together and insist on Pearline, Peddlers and some unscrupulous grocers will tell you, 7 **this is a5 good as” or * the same as Pearline.” 1T'S e ‘K} a.re FALSE—Pearline s never peddled: if your grocer sends you ation, be honest—send it back. “2 JAMES PYL! ew York, AMUSEMENTS DUFFY'S FURE MALT WHISKEY. All Druggists, ITCHING HUKORS e speedily Oh! What a in the evening—when a woman has cleaned hou Pearline, instead of the old-fash- ioned way. take water to) but Pearline can difference all day with It's so much easier. There isn’t a thing anywhere about the house (that you'd save you time and work on it. Saves that wearing rubbing en the cleaning is done quickly You men BOY P’S &EaT Friday Night and Saturday Matinee, January 4 and 6. | First time in this city of the | Sandow Trocadero Vaudevilles The Greatest Spectalty Show tn the World, Headed by the Deeriess SANDOW. The Strongest Man on Earth. Apolio and | | Hercutes Combined. | “9® Fine Specialties on the Bill 8 | Usual peices at night | Matinee prices—First floor, #¢ and balcony e and b, We make a clean sw and ends in the line. If we can ONTI NENTAL Ulsters = = *Ulster eep of all the odds ulster and overcoat fit you you'll get the most wonderful bargain you ever had, chin you self, and You you — 150 kind—half meltons — PHESRR " Overcoats— mens Overcoats—the $15 price on Saturday— I eys — beavers and chillas, in broken sizes—If fit your its half $7.50 ‘Il get twice as good an ulster as payiforaiicseree in ¢ urda Men’s Pantaloons iy LSS Ay Cor. 15th and Douglas Sts. Beginning our Great January Clearance Saloof « « .+ L - | Mens Fine Overcoats Boys’ Ulsters— 25%o0 We have less than a hundred to sell--so if you want an time to buy it is Saturday, for they go at July prices; ages 14 to 19, IT. ulster, the Boys’ Suits— In two clearing-up lots--of High Cost’ Suits-—Pick them up whil at these two prices, for the cloth and lining cost more; sizes 6 to 14—-in all wool cheviot and cassimeres —not a suit in the lot worth less than g5.00, $2.50 $3.50 e you can | Boys’ Knee Pants— 500 pairs — some more of the same grade we sold a week ago will be ready Saturday at Wha'ever the lowes CONTI SR el ‘ Ulsters— Special discounts on the broken sizes — In every known cloth or col- 4 ? b or, with big collars good and long. At 88 At 89 At 810 NEN Boys’ Caps— Gloih Cape 100 t0 be cleared up Saturday 1O C at 10c, 16¢, Z5e. 250 ¢ price is we make it, NG HDUIAL . DOUCLAS IS THE BEST, HOE FIT FOR A KING, 5. CORDOVAN, 2 FRENCH & ENAMELLED CALF, /045350 FINE CALF & KANGAROD. 4 $3.50POLICE,3 SoLES. $2. WORKIN, 9280 N, £2,$1.75 BOYS SCHOOLSHOER. $28092 91,78 2372 BEsTDONGOLA i S0 EORGATALOGUE i DECCKTON, A435, 3" Over Onc Miltion People wear the W. L. Douglas $3 & $4 Shoes All our shoes are equally satisfactory They glve the best value for the money. They equal custom shoes In styl L Thalr wearing qualitiea are unsurpassed. The prices are unlform,---stamped on sole. From $1 to $3 saved over other make If your dealer cannct supply you we can, Sold by A. W. Bowman Co, N. 16t1, st C.J. Carlson, i218 W, 22t ). 81, W. W Fianer, Park:r and Leaven- wert st J. Newman, 424 85, I3th. 8:. Kolly, Stiger Co. Faryam & I5t) .sté T- 8, Cressey, 2609 N st 8o. Omaha. L $ HeNKY BOLLY. Manufactured in Loulsville s Co guaranteed to be as good as any manufa outside of this state. Henry Bolln. uality ured AMUSEMENTS, T 3 |ForgEsk TU-NIGUMT AT 8 e MUH»!;@LACK : They ave all right In “RINNIGAN’SBALL.?? MATINEE SATURDAY, COMING =W Dec. 6.—"SHIP OF BTAT BEMPIRE % PRIC ephone 1501 J. R” W. BUI WIEK JANUARY 6 Commencing with Matinee Sun The Great Ametican Melo-Dia SHIP OF STATE, Coming, Jan. 13-16 — — Joha L. Bullivan, Manager Colonial Chairs, You want one of these In your libraty or living room. They have grown to be as much a necessary part of the furniture of a modern bouse as a plano or a leather casy chair, There are over fifty different styles, all copies of genuine colonial originals, but for the three essentials of comfort, beauty of outline, and historic suggestiveness there is no patiern so popular as this, It embodies the high back with lery back above, the ‘‘dug’ the broad arm rests, the tapering cross braces, the nearly every well known feature of the 15th century construction. We take special pains with the marquetry of our colonial frames, and at the low price at which we are selling these chairs there Is nothing that can compare with them at the price in this country. Charles Shiverick & Co, FURNITURE of Every Descrintian the gale or recessed seat, Temporary Loeation, 1200 and 1205 Douglus Stras MILLARD HOTEL BLOCK. B