Smyrna times., 1923-01-03

Appropas to the meeting of the Del
aware Legislature the Wilmington
Every Evening gives some timely ad-
vice. "There is no doubt" it says,
''the people of Delaware expect more
of the next Legislature than was ex-
pected of any of its predecessors for
many years. The conditions of the
political campaign that resulted in its
election were such as to give ample
warrant for this expection.
F. at is now for the members of the
Legislature, especially those compris-
ing the Democratic majority in each
branch, to so act as to convert these
expectations entertained by the people
into realities.
ITO state in detail how this many be
done would be a difficult task. No
matter what plan might be formulated
by any individual, or any newspaper,
exceptions would be taken and hos
tile criticism advanced.
"The majority members have GER
tain things to do, in order to make
good the pledges contained in the
Democratic State platform of the last
campaign. This is a duty they must
perform to the best of their ability
Already steps have been taken to have
this part of the sessions work duly
performed. And other matters will
come up for consideration.
The one item of practical advice
that may be extended without fear of
criticism is that all the members
should resolve from the first to make
this session working session. They
should insist upon an early introduc-
tion of all important legislative pro-
jects. To this end, it might bring
good results to Immediately fix an in
violate limit for the reception of new
business-say after the expiration of
thirty days, which would offord ample
time.
Next, the members should so ar
range affairs as to be prepared to give
full attention to all the business that
is sure to come to them. They should
not sit at their desks with one eye
continually on the clock. ready for a
motion to adjourn when train time ar
rived.
"Also, there should be ample ar
rangements for committee sessions,
for the prompt and full consideration
of measures, so that all committees
would be fully prepared to explain
the measures committed to them in
committee, when reported to the bod
les for action.
"And no opportunity should be ne
elected for affording the people ample
opportunity 70 be heard upon pend
ing measures in which they may be
interested. This may necessitate re-
naming in Dover at nights, occasion
! ally, even frequently, but this would
prove no hardship.
"In a word, work-steady, persist
ent, intelligent work-should be the
slogan of this Legislature. The indif-
ferent, slipshod methods of the past
should be resolutely barred.
"And each member should act for
; himself, not at the dictation of any
selfish politicians, or assumed party
leaders with personal ends to serve.
"Such program surely would re-
suit in busy and profitable session.
FINALLY, in addition to the resolu-
tion to place time limit of 30 days
on new business, it should be resolved
that the session shall be concluded, il
good form and with all necessary worl
accomplished within the limit of sixty
days tentatively ordered by the Con
stitution in denying compensation fol
a session prolonged beyond that time.
The Houston (Texas) Post ha.
been conducting "spend it at home