The Birmingham age-herald., 1917-03-11

son have proved that this administra. ton is progressive, broad in it's views and to a quintescent degree, nonpar- tisan.
 So conclusively has the above beer | demonstrated that in the opinion ol democratic congressman, MT. Burlesor stands as high as either of the 2 sen ators who by means of their filibuster made the nation appear "contemptible in the eyes of the world"
 In other words, there is a bone oi contention. That bone is the forth coming executive order putting ali postmasters under civil service.
 SOUTHERNERS PROTEST An effort was made to incorporate the civil service provision in the post office appropriation bill. After the measure had passed the House, an amendment to that effect was tackled on in the Senate. In conference, the House indignantly rejected the amend ment and the Senate yielded.
 Some days ago. MT. Burleson, who had labored and lobbied in behalf of his pet scheme sent for certain con gressmen with whom he desired to dis cuss a matter affecting their dis tricts" When these members appeared before Burleson he informed them that the President would issue an executive order putting all postmasters under civil service The congressman, espe- cially those who hail from the south, emitted a yell
 MT BurIeson is alleged to have in formed them that they could kick as much as they pleased, but that the mat ter in question had been definitely de- termined.
 DARK POSSIBILITIES MT. Burlesons says that the President will put his idea into effect in the in- terest of economy and efficiency. when pressed further for details, he de- clared that in competitive examinations no discrimination would be shown, and that if a negro established the highest grade in any competitive test, that negro would be given the job. As a result, it is possible that in some southern cities in the future negroes for life will sit among the official elect as postmasters and smile as their patrons squirm under the gross in- dignity.
 Southern members are up in arms. While they oppose the change because it will eliminate their patronage, their first consideration is the dark possi- biHty involved They declare that no republican President, however strong in anti-southern sentiment, ever dared to make 1t possible for negro in an examination to win a postoffice in an important center. They are surprised that a democratic President, however little his regard for the south might be- would use the executive power in manner they think so offensive.
 POSTMASTERS EXCITED
 The details of the proposed scheme have not been published. For that very reason every postmaster in the United States is up in the air. Telegrams from every section are pouring in to mem bers of Congress, and the burden Of each Is, How does it affect me?'
 From what can be learned, the Presi- dent will issue an executive order un- der the terms of which the next suc- ceeding postmasters in every city of the United States will be chosen as result of competitive examinations
 Present postmasters will be permit ted to serve out their terms. In the event of death or resignation, how ever, successors will be chosen by ex- animation. The provisions will be eff fective also on assistants and all oth- CTS employed in the postoffice service of the government.
 Disgruntled congressman declare that the order is the result of the ad- ministrations desire to curry favor with @ House, the controlling party or which will be for months in doubt, if, indeed, it is ever positively established.