The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1902-10-11

NEW YORK, Oct. 1o.-"What do you
mean by politicians? I want you and all
other operators to understand that I am
the Governor Of New York, the chosen rep
resentative of seven million people. and
that I am here in this matter solely in
that capacity and to relieve. IL possible.
an intolerable situation. And what is
more / intend TO use every power at my
command to do it,
Governor Odell made this statement to-
day TO President Baer of the Reading road.
in the presence Of United States Senators
Platt, Of New York, and Quay and Pen
rose. OF Pennsylvania. 1t the cul-
m!nation Of a rather heated interview in
the Office of Senator Platt. and the result
of the first meeting between Governor
Cdell and President Baer.
Mr.. Baer was not in the best of humor
when, accompanied by z. B. Thomas.
chairman of the board Of directors OF the
Erie Railroad, he entered Senator Platts
office. The conference was begun by a
statement made by Senator Penrose that
the situation was becoming so serious that
some solution must be found at once. He
suggested that the operators should incline
to some concessions toward settlement.
Baer. that we are to recognize the exist
ence Of a labor union, tell you right now
that the operators will consider no such
proposition"
Governor Odell was on his feet In an in
stant. Holding a half-burned cigar in his
hand and white with excitement, he said:
"Are we to understand that no kind of
conciliatory proposition will receive con-
of he Nf be
'I did not say that" answered Mr.. Baer,
will not accept political advice or allow the
interference OF politicians In this. our af-
fair"
Then II was that Governor Odell made
the statement attributed to him at the be-
ginning of this article.
President Baer. evidently appreciating
that he had gone too far bowed to Gov
ernor Odell and said: Governor, 1 beg
your pardon. No personal affront was in
tended. and We will listen to any sugges-
tions you may have TO make, but again
repeat that must refuse to recognize
the union as represented by Mr. Mitchell"
IT believe" said the Governor. that your
position from a public view is absolutely
untenable. II coal operators, railroad men
and other business men can combine for
mutual profit and protection. there is no
reason why laboring men should not
What Is the proposition? said Mr.. Baer
coldiy.
Just this" said Governor odell ct am
sure tndt the ldDoT ORGANIZATION OF Wnlcn
Mr.. Mitchell Is head desires him to be fair
with the general public. II the operators
will consent TO give the men cents a ton
Increase I will personally present ii to the
miners. and believe they will accept it, 1t
Is a fair proposition
Does this mean, Governor Odell that we
are to recognize the miners union?" Mr.
Baer asked.
sIt certainly does" answered Governor
Odeil. and there is no reason why you
should not"
Mr.. Baer and Mr.. Thomas rose to go. Mr.
Thomas remarking that the matter would
be presented to the other operators and
that an early answer would be forthcoming
Mr. Baer said:
I'VE are 10 meet a committee OF the man.
ufacturers' Association on Tuesday. and
we may have an answer then"
The conference broke up. Mr.. Baer and
Mr.. Thomas Withdrawing. Senators Platt
Penrose and Quay talked over the matter
for short time, and then they, too sep-
arated. the two Pennsylvanians ANNOUNCE
ing that they would go back 10 Harrisburg
and discuss the situation with Governor
Stone
Governor Odeu was not In a talking
mood sohen he left the conference He
went directly TO the Fifth-avenue Hotel.
and during most OF the afternoon received
callers Mayor Low. Anson @. McCook.
Edwarc Lautsrbach. Representatives Less