The Helena independent. [volume] (Helena, Mont.) 1875-1943, 1890-04-23
Rates of Wages.

AS"VCS Va sS"SSS'
The interests of all classes of citizens are
so closely allied with the laboring element
that the rates of wages both for skilled and
unskilled employees is a matter of public
concern. Aside from the humanitarian
features, it is best for capital in every
branch of investment that wages be on such
a scale of liberality within certain bounds
as to permit of the largest purchasing
power. difference of half dollar day
is matter of but small concern to the cap
italists. but to the workman it frequently
means the difference between comfort and
discomfort.
The laborers of Helena do not now re-
ceive any greater remuneration than
| faithful rendition of services justlties, and
under the guidance of wisely managed as
sociations there has been no such clashing
of interests as to call for organized inter-
vention.
The past freedom from strikes. it is to be
hoped, will be marked element of future
progress. Employers seem content to pay
existing rates, and members of the crafts
appreciate the fact that strife only pro-
| vokes importations of contract men.
l think that any effort on the part of
agencies of any kind to solicit the immigra-
tion of workmen by publication of rates of
wages or otherwise should be deprecated.
The citizens of Montana do not want the
state uOOu6u WlIu IlGil DeNOlO tue CdpdClly
for employment, who would in their anxiety
for work underbid and bring about per-
manent lowering of wages. The industries
of Montana do not compete In any sense
with labor outside the limits of the state.
and no necessity exists for reduction of
| per diem on that account.
What is most needed are such representa-
tons of the natural advantages of this Sec
ton, made only through publications that
will reach the capitalists and farmers, as
will induce development of the mines and
ranches, the building of irrigation canals
and railroads.
When avenues for the employment of
labor are open the needed muscle will be
here in ample force by natural means with
out an embarrassing superabundance.
Because of my present ignorance of the
details of the city government have taken
the liberty of discussing at some length
matters more general in their nature.
feel an assurance that your wisdom and
business experience will enable you to sue
cessfuliy grapple with all difficulties usual
" met with i'll the administration of a rap.
idly growing municipality. but there II
need that we use both official and personal
influence TO awaken the city to a sense OF
wider activities. The gods help those wht
help themselves, and it only becomes us K
exhibit determination to build and I'M
prove to secure such a rush OF outside energy
and capital as will put our beautiful city o
Helena in the van of all competitlon
While il is an essential of republican torn
of government that party ties exist and b
freshened up by occasional contests at tn
polls, it should be kept in mind that IN
city government craftsmanship should ceas
) with the appointment of administratis
/. agents. We are here as the servants OF ia
/ people. to conduct honestly and impartial
, to the best of our ability the business G
: the city. and for that only.
ii Deeming it advisable that the taxpayer