President Roosevelt is a square man and has no use for the trusts, but he is only one, and they are so strong and so sneaky that it will take more than one man-even though he be the President of this great republic-to "bust" them. 'I don't wonder that workingmen get dissatisfied when it takes so large a part of their wages to buy plain food in order that the beef trust men may increase their millions. I don't wonder there are strikes. Of course such a strike as that of the teamsters in Chicago hurts the union cause; still, while we allow other countries to empty their criminal and ignorant element into our country, we must expect such things. O, what a great big conundrum this great big world is!

"It's easy enough to be pleasant

When life flows along like a song;

But the one worth while

Is the one who can smile

When everything in life goes wrong."
"MRS. TOM."

Portland, Maine.

Editor Railway Conductor:

The meeting following our delegate's return we listened to a very interesting report of the Grand Convention held at Portland, Oregon, after which ice cream and cake were served by the committee. So far the hot weather has not affected us, as we have had enough to fill the chairs at least. We have had one more member added to our circle since my last letter.

Sister Nauholz, of Columbia Division 37, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, paid our Division a visit last meeting day. We planned to have a picnic on Sister Orr's lawn, in her honor, but the weather man interfered and we had to have it in the banquet room instead. Our husbands were invited, and although there were only five of the Brothers able to be present, they seemed to have a good time.

Come again, Brothers, as the ladies are always beaming with smiles when you are in attendance. And Sister Nauholz, the next time you come we will try to have better weather.

Prosperity Division extends a cordial welcome to all Sisters who visit us.

A letter from Detroit Division 44, L. A., is long past due; maybe I can make up for lost time in this one.

I must say we have some hustling members amongst us, as we have initiated into the mysteries of our Order eight new members this year, with two more for the next meeting.

At our second meeting in June Sister Ingalls, Past President of Iron Queen Division 186, of Two Harbors, Minn., visited our Division and entertained us with a few well chosen remarks. I wish we could have more visitors. I think this is our first in a year.

Thursday, July 27th, the Auxiliary was invited to a "porch party" at our President's home. A surprise was in store for those present when a man with a camera presented himself to take their pic-tures. The group was taken in the back yard, made beautiful with rugs and flags. The surprise

will be complete when this appears in THE CONDUCTOR. Lunch was served and soon all departed for their several homes. Sister Hart is a royal entertainer.

Thursday, August 5th, International Division 48 and Detroit Division 44, Ladies' Auxiliary, gave an excursion to Bois Blanc Park, one of the many pleasure resorts near this beautiful city. Judging others by myself, all had a good time.

I must concur in the opinion of the correspondent from Grand Rapids in regard to our new Secretary of Insurance; she impresses me as a very capable CORRESPONDENT.

woman.

Detroit, Mich.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Hark! did you say Ivy Leaf, Port Jervis, was dead? Well, I guess not, but very much alive, as you would believe if you saw the way they clean-d the tables of good things, after which we took a trolley ride to Bergan Point, and left with the understanding that we were to go to Sister Langly's the next. Well, we went to Waldwick. And such a time and such a table. After dinner we adjourned to the parlor and had music and recitations. After light refreshments we left, voting Sister Langly an ideal hostess.

The last entertainment, but not the least by any means, was held at the home of Sister Mitchell, Clifton Park, N. J. They were met by Sister Bently of Sayre, Pa., and several from Albany Division. Sister Mitchell took them for a trolley ride and they were a merry lot. Brother Mitchell is the envy of West Shore boys, as some of them saw him coming up with such a crowd of jolly good looking ladies, but he is too old a bird to be jollied about it. They left amid a great hubbub of good-byes, "Come up," "Come over," etc. I wish we lived closer. Just think! some in Suffern, Patterson, Waldwick, Jersey City and Weehawken. The next social will be held at Sister Clay's, in Suffern.

These gatherings are just what is needed in an order. I hope they will keep the ball rolling. We expect four members to ride the goat next meeting. IVY LEAF.

Port Jervis, N. Y.

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Eidtor Railway Conductor:

I am not our correspondent, but as she did not attend the convention, and I see the other routes so highly spoken of in THE CONDUCTOR, I feel that some one should tell of our own pleasant trip over the Great Northern. I heartily agree with Sister McCall when she speaks of grateful appreciation to the O. R. C. for making it possible for us to take such a delightful and easy journey across the continent. So here is asking the Sisters to join me in a Chautauqua salute to the O. R. C., the railroad companies, Brother Clark, or to whoever we are indebted for the pleasure of our trip, which I am sure will live in our memories.

We left Chicago May 5th, at 7:30 p. m. Of course it was great fun setting up housekeeping in our small double houses, getting acquainted with our neighbors, and, to many of us, the new experience of retiring in a sleeper; but every one

was settled at last and speeding away towards St. Paul. Many of us had our first glimpse of the Mississippi River the next morning soon after daylight, and indeed every morning of our trip the "Oh, look!" "Isn't it grand!" "Do see!" and other exclamations of delight and wonder called every one but a few laggards and hardened sightseers from bed.

Our first stop was at St. Paul, where we spent several pleasant hours, and were shown through their magnificent new capitol building, a close rival to the national capitol in grandeur and finished with many kinds of marble from all parts of the world and beautiful polished stone from the quarries of Minnesota.

It will take too long to tell of the sights through the Bad Lands, Indian reservations, etc., so I will only tell of a few stops. Through the courtesy of our train conductor, we were entertained during our short stay at Glasgow by the band, which met us at the depot. At one city we were met very cordially by the assistant superintendent, who accompanied us over two divisions. At that place we also exchanged our engine for one beautifully decorated. Some of the conductors with cameras took views of it, which perhaps they will send to the CONDUCTOR for publication, that we may each have one. Our next stop of interest was at Spokane, where the O. R. C. treated us to a trolley ride around the city. We were shown through their beautiful new temple. by Mr. J. Y. Roberts and enjoyed a fine view of the city from the tower. Monday found us in Seattle, where we were greeted and entertained all day most royally by the brotherhood-and now I may add Sisterhood also. the kindness of Mrs. Boyle and Sister McDonald we are indebted for a trolley side out to their beautiful park. Next came a trip through Puget Sound, a walk through the navy yard and in the evening a reception and magnificent banquet was given us at Hotel Washington, which I am sure occupies the most unique and sightly location of any hotel in the world. Night found us back again in our cozy sleepers and off for Portland, after bidding a reluctant farewell to new-found friends. The sights and pleasures of that beautiful city of roses, and the many pleasant trips given us, has been told by readier pens than mine, so I will not try to repeat or add thereto; but with greetings to newmade friends and hopes that we may meet again at Memphis in 1907, will say good-bye. Elmira, N. Y.

Editor Railway Conductor:

MRS. J. L. DURFEY.

Το

suppose the members of Division 123 will expect to see a letter in THE CONDUCTOR this month, so will endeavor to meet the expectation. We do not want other Divisions to think we have become extinct, for we have not.

On May 23 Division 123 was invited by Division 215 to meet at O. R. C. hall in a social session, to which we gladly responded, for we knew what that meant in the way of a good time. The Brothers had a banquet fit for a king. Brother Thornton made the coffee and it was fine. After we were seated at the table Chief Conductor Plummer said Brother Terry had a few words to say to us, at which signal Brothers Bennett and Bushman came

forward with a tray laden with three dozen silver knives and forks, and in a few well chosen words Brother Terry presented them to Division 123. Vice-President Sister Clay, in the absence of our President, Sister Warfield, thanked the Brothers for their beautiful gift.

The O. R. C and L. A. have again moved into a more spacious hall and hope to remain permanently. There are quite a number of conductors' wives that are not members of the Division, but we hope to secure their names to enroll with us before long. We enjoyed a visit from Sister Fox, who has not been able to meet with us for three years, as she is residing in Iowa Falls. It did seem good to see her face in the Division room again.

Brother and Sister Reilly are mourning the loss of their young son. Brother and Sister, our sympathy goes out to you. Austin, Minn.

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Editor Railway Conductor:

DESSIE BOWER.

Notwithstanding the present temperature, our meetings are unusually well attended for the season, which speaks well for the zeal of our Auxiliary. Our meetings are always pleasant and beneficial. On August 20th we were honored with an invitation to attend one of the most notable events of the season-the conductors' picnic at Highland Park. We accepted with pleasure and looked forward to the day. Under the shade of magnificent oaks a bountiful dinner was spread. There was a bounteous plenty of good things, and the man who wouldn't have gotten enough to eat would have been blind or madly in love. In the cool of the evening we boarded a city-bound car, feeling that it had been a day long to be remembered, a day to bring us nearer in the bonds of kindness and love, a day to make us more tolerant of the faults of each other and generous advocates of their virtues. MRS. W. A. DANIEL.

Jackson, Tenn.

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Editor Railway Conductor:

While reading the July CONDUCTOR I came across a letter from the correspondent of Oklahoma Division at Shawnee, Oklahoma, and thought that if someone had to urge her at the end of three months, "by phone," what on earth will the Sisters use to help me get my letter in THE CONDUCTOR. I hardly think I would get off so easy.

All have enjoyed the letters from Brothers and Sisters who had spent a day with us en route to the convention at Portland, and we feel very grateful for the appreciation of our entertaining. I am sure none enjoyed being here any more than we enjoyed having them.

Speaking of the convention brings to mind a promise. Brother Rice of "Way Back East," I will send those agates one of these days.

The Sisters from the Seattle lodge visited us the last meeting in June, and all enjoyed the day, which was finished with a trip to Pt. Defiance Park.

We have had some very enjoyable birthday parties. Each Sister either on her birthday or wedding anniversary is surprised by the Sisters and presented with an appropriate present.

We have six new Sisters since January 1st, and

hope to have more before the close of the year, as there are some lovely women here who are eligible and who would enjoy being with us if they could only have the "ice broken."

Some of the Sisters have their families out camping, and from all reports it is one round of pleasure, and those who are not camping are "batching," the travel is so heavy now that our husbands are on the road all the time. A few years ago it was "Klondike or bust," now it seems to be "the Portland Fair or bust," each train packed to the very limit and everyone trying to see "all" of our glorious country.

Old Sol tried to melt us for three or four days last week, but we were so thoroughly chilled earlier in the season that it had no effect.

The members of Ella Stone Division 163, especially the absent sisters, I will say our Division is doing finely, and Sister Stone makes a most excellent and efficient officer, or President. She also did fine work as a delegate and brought home a most excellent report from the convention at Portland. In appreciation of her work the Auxiliary ladies gave her a handsome present of a set of silver knives and forks. The gift was a great surprise to her.

Sister Humphrey entertained the Ladies of the Auxiliary most delightfully at her home August 3rd, as it was her birthday. The ladies remembered her with a little gift of an easy chair. Sister, we join in wishing you many such birthdays.

Considering the very warm weather, we have a very good attendance at our meetings; but when it is cooler, we hope our Sisters will be more interested and attend the meetings oftener, as we have a most worthy and energetic President and officers, who try to make the meetings both pleasant and entertaining. Come, Sisters, and learn for your selves.

A most cordial invitiaton is extended to all visiting Sisters to visit our Division room and attend our meetings. SISTER PARSONS.

Sedalia, Mo.

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Editor Railway Conductor:

A long-felt want has been supplied by the organizing of San Antonio Division, uniting as it does those who have so much in common. And the united efforts of those good women have already been felt. Joined socially by the bond of true friendship, heroically banded together to alleviate sorrow and distress among those of their own class wherever found and rejoicing with the Brother conductors when there is cause to rejoice, their presence cheering and brightening on many occasions For is not the company of good women always refining and elevating to the noblest of men?

July 12th a thoughtful invitation from the San Antonio conductors brought together the members of the Ladies' Auxiliary, and together they proceeded to the elegant and hospitable home of Brother Geo. Waid, who had been for so long their efficient Chief, and presented him with a chest of

solid silver, which was feelingly received, Brother Waid assuring them that he felt proud to know he had been able to retain their confidence. So we departed, leaving Brother Waid and his estimable wife happy in the consciousness of duty well performed.

Sister Woods, who will be pleasantly remembered as the delegate from the San Antonio Division at Portland, had the misfortune to be bereft of her only son. Be assured, Sister Woods, of our love and constant sympathy, trusting that He who tempers the winds to the shorn lamb will sustain you.

To our Sister Divisions in New Orleans, who are now in deadly combat with that dreaded of diseases, yellow fever, we extend greetings of Sisterly love and sympathy. MRS. T. I. WATTERS.

Editor Railway Conductor:

It is time you were hearing from Eureka Division 194 once again. We are getting along nicely, doing We have some good workers

some good work. among our sisters. Some of our sisters are slow at coming to our meetings. Now, sisters, come out and get interested in our work; then you will enjoy each meeting more. Our goat has had quite a rest, and I am afraid he will be hard to manage; but as there are two petitions out, I think he will soon have some work.

We had a picnic at Idora Park August 10. The sisters took their better halves along to help partake of the good things they had in their baskets. A most enjoyable time was had by all.

We have word that some of our neighbor sisters would visit us our next meeting. We are looking forward to having a grand meeting. We are always glad to welcome any sister. Now, sisters, come out and try and make our Division among the banner MRS. C. F. KING.

ones.

Youngstown, Ohio.

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Editor Railway Conductor:
184 is doing nicely.
Several have been initiated in the last few months.
Also, several petitions have been balloted on.

Our Division gave an ice cream social the 17th of August, at which we cleared a neat little sum.

Sister Uringar will soon leave us, to make her home at Birmingham, Ala. MRS. R. L. BROOKS. East St. Louis, Ill.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Since our last letter to THE CONDUCTOR we have had the pleasure of having our Grand President, Sister Moore, inspect our Division. We always take renewed interest in our work after one of her visits. A reception was held at the home of Sister Klinkensmith so that Sister Moore could meet some of the Brother Conductors.

Members of L. A. battle for right, and we all claim to work together for good results. So let us all take hold and see if we can't succeed in all our undertakings in the future as we have in the past. In unity there is strength; we should unite in putting forth every effort in the interest of our

cause.

Editor Railway Conductor:

After our Delegate returned home from Portland, our Division held a reception and banquet and invited the Brothers and their families. The even

ing was thoroughly enjoyed by listening to recitations, also some toasts and well chosen remarks from our Brothers.

We have been keeping our goat busy of late. We hope to have a sister Auxiliary at San Luis Obispo. Wake up. Brothers of Pacific Division 440; get your wives in line.

Division 84 enjoyed a picnic at East Lake Park this past week.

Hurrah for California! Another sister Division at Fresno. Our hearts are made glad to greet Yosemite Division 219. May her snow-white, unsullied sails never be torn or stained by the storms of dissention and strife, may she never cast anchor in any harbor unless there flies from its ramparts the white flag of peace and prosperity.

Our Auxiliaries are just what our members are, and can be made exactly what they please, active or inactive, keen or dull, narrow or broad. We are too prone to overlook what we consider the "commonplace," the natural talents and virtues which fill our lives with noble deeds. The questions which are decidedly most valuable are the lessons of sisterly love, the cheerful habit of loving in this world, to be a good woman, full of high purposes and noble actions, to be possessed of determination, steadfastness and business methods. Solve these questions and we go far toward solving all questions pertaining to woman and our Auxiliary. MRS. J. E. HARTELL.

Los Angeles, Calif.

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Editor Railway Conductor:

We cordially invite all members of the Ladies' Auxiliary to the Order of Railway Conductors to be present at our "School for District Deputies" on the 16th and 17th of October. We hope all the District Deputies who possibly can will be present and have their districts well represented also. All come prepared to offer something for the betterment of our Order. It will be a good opportunity to offer suggestions for the changes which are to be made in our work during this term. Every one will be sure of a profitable time when we are so fortunate in having one so capable as our Grand President to instruct us. I assure you that the Sisters of 68 know how to make it pleasant for visitors.

We haven't been able to secure a hall this far in advance. Hotel headquarters will be at Hotel Victoria, corner of Ninth and McGee Streets. Special rates of $2.00 a day have been secured.

Any information required will be gladly furnished by secretary of Division 68 or by the District Deputy of this district, or by calling up Blue 4082 or Grand 2574, Bell phones.

This is a good time for me to say a word in regard to the adoption of our Relief Fund. How many of our delegates have talked this subject over in their Divisions. If you haven't, please do so at once, and keep on talking until your delegate in 1907 will be instructed to vote for its adoption. Kansas City, Mo. MRS. I. S. RUBY, D. D

Editor Railway Conductor:

Your correspondent of Bay State Division 413 pleads guilty to a languid, dissatisfied dog-day sort of feeling, which is typical, perhaps, of the season through which we are passing. The crowds of tourists and pleasure-seekers which are hurrying and scurrying in all directions, filling our beach and mountain towns to their utmost limit, all in search of that most elusive quantity, happiness, are responsible, perhaps for most of the disquietude which has taken possession of your unhappy scribe. The traffic conditions in our section, which by the way, is the vacation land during the heated term for all of Southern New England and the Atlantic States, it occurs to us to note the fact that while every fellow and his girl are taking much needed rest and recreation among the quiet solitudes of our northern country, the poor devil of a railroad man has to tighten his belt a couple of notches and spit on his hands for fresh effort.

I am, however, enabled to put in a couple of days each week on the shores of one of the loveliest sheets of water that lies under the sun. "Grand old Sunapee," "Lake among the clouds," "Smile on the Face of Nature." an inspiration to many a poet who has vainly tried to describe her manifold beauties. A romantic environment which has tinctured the writings of historians, and an almost supernatural charm which, ages ago, caused the aboriginal dwellers in the land to mutely worship on its shores, and whether in skitt one glides along over its placid surface, or some other kind of boat, one is ever impressed with the scenic feast which is continually spread before the eye, and the beautiful setting which was vouchsafed by the Creator for this fairest jewel of all. I am a worshipper at this particular shrine, and when I get started I hardly know where to cut the thread.

Our regular meeting day, Thursday, August 10th, was embellished, as usual, by an awfully good feast or feed, whichever you may call it. Our commissary trio did themselves proud, and it was a hungry lot they were up against, and twenty-eight hungry fiends in twenty-nine minutes made the table look like thirty cents. We were pleased to see among the number Brother Luke H. Olney, freight con

ductor on the Western Division, who was so badly hurt at Newton Junction last December his life was despaired of for a long time, and he is still on crutch and cane; but it seems as though time and a good constitution might make him whole.

It rather pleases us old timers to note the outcome of the age limit question. It was but a short time ago that there seemed to be a craze among railway managers for young blood in the service; experience and capacity counted for nothing if it was observed that a man's hair was gray. or that he had crow's-feet about his eyes. The Chicago and Alton, Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul, and the C. B. & Q. have recently announced that they will employ at least 50 per cent. of their men without regard to age. And now the Boston and Maine declares that it will hire men of any age in any capacity. This is very gratifying in more ways than one. Experience and the sober second thought which come of mature years must surely count for something, and really age is not always a criterion of physical ability. Many a man of 55 or 60 has capacity for manual labor and vitality to endure hardships far beyond those who are much younger. And if the age limit theory was adopted through all lines of industry and the matter carried to its logical conclusion, what would become of the millions who would be permanently displaced? Old age pensions would not remedy the matter, for the limit was set far below the years of incapacity. Men who were virtually in the prime of life, and capable of giving their full quota to the industrial activities of the land were put out of action. This is an age of new departures, and many innovations have to be subjected to the crucial test of time an work before one is proved to be of sterling worth Fads and fancies are not realities, and the failure of this particular idea gives us to understand that although our railway managers are generally considered to be very astute, and far-seeing men, they are still human and liable to err.

From common clay are fashioned many kinds and varieties of the "genus homo," and occasionally we find sitting in high and lofty places misfits.

The matter of pensions for railway employes has been given considerable thought on our system,