The record-union., 1894-07-14
DEBs' PROPOSITION.
Basis of Settlement on Which He VII
End the Strike.

Basis of Settlement on Which He VIII
End the Strike.
CHICAGO, July Is. following is the text
of the proposition made by Debs to the
railway managers:
''To the RatLwoy Mdnagers-GENTLE-
MEN: The existing troubles throughout
the Pullman strike having assumed con-
tinental proportions, and there being no
indication of relief from the widespread
business Generalization and distress in
cideDt thereto, the railway employees,
through the Board of Directors of the
American Railway Union, respectfully
make the following proposition, as a
basis of settlement:
".rhey agree to return to work in a
body at once, provided they shall be re-
stored to their former positions without
prejudice, except in cases, if any there
be, where they have been convicted of
crime.
This is a proposition looking to an
immediate settlement of the existing
strike on all lines of railway, and is in
spired by purpose to subserve the pub
lie good. The strike, smaller and COM
paratively unimportant in its inception,
has extended in every direction until
now it involves or threatens not only
every public interest but the peace, se-
curity and prosperity of our common
country. The contest has waged
fiercely. It has extended far beyond the
limits of interests originally involved
and has laid hold of vast number of in
dustries and enterprises in no wise re-
sponsible for the differences and disa-
greements that led to the trouble. Fac
tory, mill, mine and shop have been
silenced. Widespread Generalization
has sway. The interests of multiplied
thousands of innocent people are suffer-
ing. The common welfare is seriously
menaced. The public peace and tran
quillity are imperiled. Grave apprehen-
sions for the future prevail. This being
true, and the statement will not be con-
troverted, we conceive it to be our duty
as citizens and as men to make extra
ordinary efforts to end the existing strike
and avert approaching calamities whose
shadows are even now upon us.
IF ended now, the contest, however
serious in its consequences, will not have
been in vain. Sacrifices have been made,
but they will have their compensations.
Indeed, if lessons shall be taught by ex-
perience, the troubles now SO widely de-
pIored will prove blessing of ines
Unable value in the months and years to
come.
1.-The difference that led up to the pres
ent complications need not now be dis
cussed. At this supreme juncture every
consideration of duty and patriotism de-
mand that remedy for existing troubles
be found aud applied. The employees
propose to do their part by meeting their
employers half way. Let it be stated
that they do not impose any condition of
settlement except that they return to
their former positions. They do not ask
the recognition of their organization or
of an organization.
Believing this proposition to be fair,
reasonable and just, 1t is respectfully sub
mitted with the belief that its acceptance
will result in the prompt resumption of
traffic, the revival of industry and the
restoration of peace and order. Respect
fully, EUGENE V. DEBs, President;
&c. V. HOWARD, Vice-President;
SYLVESTER KELIHER, Secretary,
American Railway Union.n