Memphis daily appeal. [volume] (Memphis, Tenn.) 1847-1886, 1883-06-15
J. HI. Field Favers an Extra Session.

COLUMBUS, Miss June TO- 1883.
DKAR SIR-Your letter was received day before
have answered at once. Others have written me
on the same subject OF course favor an extra
pose named have written 10 the Hon. A G..
Norvell, of Yazoo, who seems TO have the matter
In charge, representing, perhaps, the Lsyee Con-
levee matters should be the only subject of legis-
lation. suppose he has written TO every member.
soc no reason why there should be hesitation on
this matter. large part of the State of Missis-
sippi, and the richest in production per acre. is in
absolute need of protection which only legislation
can give. They do not apply4or favors, but stand
upon privileges that should be respected. They
desire to perfect an autonomy for their own pres
at once place themselves in an attitude of HIGHER
tribute to the State Taxable property in person
atty msltiplies and values in realty ascend-in-
creasing the revenue from this source. Idon't be-
long to that class Of economists who refuse to
spend money when its expenditure certainly pur
chsses benefits that insure greater wealth and dccre
npe income. To look at the question from
the standpoint of profit alone TO the State,
But this IS 'AiG not "dl AHA large aomias nnmber
of citizens stand endangered as to person and
property and simply ask the privilege of taxing
come to their rescue. The State is a creation of
the people for such purposes and it fails in intent
impoent or indifferent to its trusts. II is absurd
inconsistent and violatve of democratic political
along the line Of popular sovereignty where It is
possible to indulge it without harm general in
terests. Hence, investing this river district with
optional powers for LEGISLATION as TO themselves,
in manner not to conflict at all with State inter
ests lthey at the same time submitting to all the
regular and general State methods in practice for
State and county purposes) can result in no harm,
out good 1t Is wrong against that section not to
recognize their rights; and it is also wrong
against the integrity of the State not to interpose
In behalf OF the preservation OF its members waen
SO much is at stake
This subject is not at all like, nor to be thought
of and decided as was the yellow-fever appropria
ton, or the call for such an appropriation by extra
session OF the legislature. That proposed a char
1ty-a gift TO sufferers. will not say here las ii liz
needless) whether it was right that case or not
TO meet in extra session. Isimply say they are not
parallel cases In the present case permanent dis
tress threatens and sections involved ask to be
permitted to legalize methods of raising money on
the basis OF their el0n property to defend them
reserved to the state 1 refer to the yelow-feyer
matter as have heard it stated in objection to
extra session on the ground urged. In my opin-
ion, if the overhowed section does not get the
legislation sought, coming sessions of the Legis-
lature will be burdened with appeals for remission
OF taxes, which, II not granted, will amount to
confiscaton OF property throughout the district
If granted or not the State will be the sufferer
The precedent for remission of taxes is harmful,
and l have ever opposed it. Taxes should be
equal, uniform and proper, and then collected. II
the State repossesses herself OF these by for
struct the levees in that case or have no pur-
chasers and, in the interim lose taxes on lands
Economy and right OF person loudly demand an
extra session and at once. think in the event of
session the district interested should have their
plans All ready, thoroughly digested. SO as not to
State You doubtless know that members at
extra sessions are paid per diem. Hence the
onus resting upon the members of the river dis
tricts not 10 uselessly cause delay. l have no
doubt the Governor will act for the best after
| thorough investigation. suppose as vet no one
knows his views on the subject
Whatever course the Governor may adopt shall
be accepted by US, Tor his eye commands the situ-
alton and his character favors the presumption
| that he will do right. Yours very truly,
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