New-York tribune., 1918-11-13
Gary Forese s e. e s
Americas Greatest
Era of Prosperity
But Warns of Perils and
Dangers of Readjust-
ment Period

For the long future we have reason
to believe that the country will be more
progressive and more prosperous than
ever BEFORE" was the way in which
Judge Ebert H. Gary, chairman o the
United States Steel Corporation, yes
terday summed up the post-bellum
business outlook He stressed, how
ever, the possibility that the war with
its cost in men and dollars may bring
temporary periods of reaction and re-
adjus ustments with possible economic
Generalization. Against these, he
warned, we must be on our guard.
Asked to give his opinion as to the
character Of the peace terms, he de-
clared that they should establish equal
protection and opportunity for all. Of
the economic questions which must be
faced in She very near future he said
the underlying factors will be the
procuring of food, clothing and shelter
for those who have suffered most. Only
after the people throughout the world
receive these will they be willing to
consider other matters, he added. Con
tinuing on the subject of future busi-
ness. Judge Gary said:
at is probable that after the dec
laration of peace when it becomes
evident that purchases or deliveries
for military purposes are reduced in
volume, there will be more or less in
corruption III the conduct of general
business. Therefore, it is imperative
that we exercise prudence, delibera-
the attitude and the speech of men. 1t
IS easy to precipitate a feeling of de-
moralization. and no more difficult to
develop a sentiment of confidence and
serenity.
Prosperity Should Continue
There will be normal and certain
volume of business. This should not
be increased by unreasonable or un
fair means. There will remain the
usual avenues. methods and opportuni-
ties for securing and transacting bust
ness with old customers and acquaint
ances. Any spasmodic effort to divert
or interfere with the natural progress,
or to secure more than proper share,
will, as a total net result impede
rather than accelerate prosperity. We
must all trim our sails in accordance
with the drift and amount of business.
If all business men recognize condi
tions and conduct their different lines,
so as to adjust the questions of supply
and demand on legimitate basis, all
will be benefited and may look forward
with confidence. Upon careful survey
of the situation it viii be found there
are many reasons for believing pros
pcrity in this country should be con-
tinued.
THE Uuited States is the richest OF
all countries. 1t possesses onc-tbird
or more of the total wealth of the
world. It has become the leader of
finance, ana in this respect may proper
ly exercise d commanding influence.
Its natural resources are immense and
nre susceptible Of increasing develop
ment, II industry is protected and
fostercd in accordance with its merit
the war burd ens surely, even though
gradually, will be lifted. We shall be
creditor nation with large interest
income, more Virle, more progressive,
more successful, wiser and better than
ever before.
"And Judging the future by the ex-
perienCe Of the last few years, there
will be a disposition, Oh the part of
those IN authority, to assist rather
than to attack business effort. There
will be study, reflection, friendly
concern shown III relation to the needs
and requests Of enterprise and invest
ment. Legislation and administration
will be founded on ascertained condi~
tions, deficiencies and requirements.
Both capital and labor will be protected
and rewarded Employers will lead
IN the effort to promote The welfare Of
their workmen.
"Cooperation will be seen on every
hand. Capital and labor will continue
to cooperate with governmental ad-
miristration, and the latter Will recip-
rocate in every practical and proper
manner. This spirit has been exh bted
IN marked degree in this country and
bv other countries during the last four
years, and its benefits have been de .
monstratcd so clearly that thew will
not permit return to the methods Of
destructive competition.
Large Businesses Probable
CAS- to the volume of business to be
offered curing the next few months or
wears, no one can accurately predict,
but there are reasons to suppose it
will be large.
"The government will continue to
be a large purchaser at reasonable
prices for the finishing Of incompleted