HAPPY PRESENTATION BY EMPLOYEES Christmas morning Mr. C. M. Owen, the popular and efficient local freight agent of the Illinois Central Railroad company, was made the recipient of a handsome present by the clerks and other employees of the freight office as a token of the friendship and esteem in which this popular official is held by his employees.

The employees assembled in the freight office and Mr. Owen was called in. He was taken completely by surprise and was almost overcome when Mr. Charlie Sevier, the chief clerk at the freight office, in a few well-chosen remarks, presented him, on behalf of the department, a handsome goldheaded umbrella and a beautiful leather traveling case, containing military brushes, tooth brushes, combs and other useful toilet articles.

Mr. Sevier,during his presentation speech, told of the thorough and capable manner in which the affairs of the local office had been conducted since Mr. Owens took charge and expressed the wish on behalf of himself and co-workers that the genial agent might prosper and live to see many happy Christmas days.

Mr. Owens responded in a happy and touching manner. He told of how proud he was to have such loyal and capable men in his employ, and assured them that every time he used the umbrella to keep the hot rays of the sun or the raindrops from him or used the military brushes to polish his grey locks of hair, that it would be a pleasant reminder of the honor bestowed upon him by each employee of his office on the Christmas of 1907.-The Jackson, Tenn., Whig.

DUFF DE VITT EXPELLED. After a thorough investigation and regu lar trial, at which DeVitt failed to appear after due notice had been served, Duff DeVitt, formerly vice-president of Cleveland No. 47, was expelled from membership in that lodge and the Brotherhood for conduct unbecoming an office and member; for making false and misleading statements to brother members at Toledo during the time of their trouble; for obtaining money from the lodge upon false representations and for representing himself to the brothers at Toledo as being duly delegated by members of Cleveland Lodge No. 47 to go to Toledo and advise with and assist the members there.

EMPLOYEES OF L. R. & N. CO. STOP WORK WHEN SALARIES ARE

REDUCED.

"There is no strike on our line; the only thing is that some of our clerks felt as if they would like to take a holiday and they failed to report for duty Tuesday morning. I have three or four men at work, some of those who went out will come back, and that is the whole situation. We are not delayed in any respect; business is going on just the same as ever, and every one of our trains is on time," said Local Agent F. F. Haddix of the Louisiana Railroad and Navigation Company yesterday evening, when he was asked about a report that the clerks in that company's employ had gone out or strike.

"Is it true that a conference was held today between the company officials and the strikers?" he was asked.

"It is not true; there is not one of the officials in the city, and besides, this thing is all in my hands."

"Is it true that the men quit because of a cut in salaries?"

"Well, yes," was the half-reluctant reply. "There was a cut of 10 percent, but that applied to every employee of the company, every man working on the line, and the company's circular announcing the cut explained that this was due to the financial trouble; the idea was to get things into better condition for a month or two."

"Was it announced that the cut was only for a couple of months?"

"Yes, only temporarily."

"How many of your men are out strike?"

on

"See here, I told you that this is not a strike; the grand total of the men who left their jobs is just eleven. They were not organized into any union-none of my men are."

"Will you put them back to work?"

"Well, some I will, and there are some that can't work here anymore. I won't have men who try to stir up trouble."-New Orleans Press.

VOTE ON WAGE SCALE ENDED. Chicago, Dec. 27.-The vote of the membership of the Order of Railway Conductors and the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen on the newly proposed wage scale will be canvassed today at a meeting here. President A. V. Garrettson, of the conductors' organization, and P. H. Morrisey, president

ROLL OF DISHONOR.

Frank W. Pell; last known address, I. & G. N. Annex, Palestine, Texas. See April, 1906 Clerk.

R. S. Price; last known address, Memphis, Tenn. See April, 1906, Clerk.

R. H. Munn; last heard from at El Paso, Texas. See May, 1906, Clerk.

Juan Conchola; last known address, Aguascalientes, Mexico. See November, 1906, Clerk.

C. C. Evans; last known address, care L. & N. R. R., Cincinnati, Ohio. See May, 1907, Clerk.

Arthur. J. Peebles; last heard from scabbing on the S. P. at Houston, Texas. See August, 1907, Clerk.

TIRED OF BUYING CIGARS.

One of our organizers recently met a delinquent member and the following dialogue ensued:

Organizer-"Good

morning, Bill, I've come to square you up with the Brotherhood."

Bill "Not for me. I'm tired of buying cigars for Grand Lodge officers. Its cost me $8 in the last two years, and I don't want no more of it."

Org. "How much wages do you earn now?"

Bill "Well, I am only paid $1.50 a day." Org. "How much do you think you are worth?"

Bill "I ort to have $2.50 a day."

Org. "Then you are paying $300 a year for cigars for stockholders in your railroad company. How long can you stand that without getting tired?"

Bill-"Say, I guess I ain't got sense enough to come in out of the rain. Fix me up and I'll be Johnny-on-the-spot' with my dues as long as I live, and I'll tell all the 'jerries' I know what a fool I've been."Advance Advocate.

A BIG TIME.

The readers of the Journal possibly have not heard much about Covington Lodge No. 19 recently, but I must tell you about the swell time the boys had at the annual election of officers, held at lodge headquarters Decembr 23, 1907. It had been decided to go right ahead with the election, and after the result was made known, to at once proceed with the program, for the evening's,entertainment.

After a spirited contest, Brother John Shea was elected president, E. P. Shields re-elected for vice-president, in token of the masterly manner in which he conducted the lodge during the year when it was not possible for President Tarvin to be on hand; Charles W. Murrey, the old political war horse, whose temperance views came near landing him the city clerkship, was unanimously elected again as treasurer of No. 19. Brother Tarvin, the retiring president, was put up and shot at for secretary, and not being an "artful dodger," naturally got "stung." The officers elected desired to go on record as promising their very best services, and we predict a successful year all round.

Because of No. 19 being famous in lodge circles for its hospitality, an immense number of our Cincinnati brothers were present and dear old Cincinnati No. 39 did herself proud.

Brother P. C. Tarvin, who is always there with the bell on when there is anything doing in lodge circles, acted as master of ceremonies, and it was his pleasure, for the opening number, to introduce Brother W. P. Gahan, who was booked to address us upon the subject of "Leadership and the Man," and for 30 minutes he held the audience spellbound in a very masterly address. The writer has known Brother Gahan for quite á number of years, and in common justice to him, must say that he is absolutely honest, fearless and a sincere student of economic questions. His address was received with marked attention, and while Brother Gahan enjoys the social features in connection with the B. of R. C., he is intensely alive to the real questions involved, and his earnestness has done much, not only for Covington lodge, but for Cincinnati lodge as well.

There were a couple of Irish brothers from Coxville, scheduled for a turn, entitled "A Brother Act." Unfortunately for those present, Brother Maher, of the Vaudeville team of O'Dowd & Maher, received a telegram from Oscar Hammerstein offering them $2,000 a week at the Hippodrome in New York city, provided they would not put their sketch on before reaching New York. This, of course, was the one drawback of the evening, but things were somewhat evened up when O'Dowd made Geo. Cohan seasick with a bunch of songs and dances, while Maher caused much merriment while trying to look natural with a mineral water glass in his hand.

The next on the program was a Hebrew monologue, delivered in fine style by Brother Pierce. He made a "hit" of large proportions.

Brother Tarvin next introduced Brother Joseph O'Donnel, who rendered in superb style the "Holy City." Brother O'Donnell comes from a family of singers. His brother John is winning laurels now in opera in New York city. Brother O'Donnell, upon the conclusion of his song and in reponse to an encore, made a very graceful little talk, expressive of Cincinnati lodge's appreciation of Kentucky hospitality.

We were fortunate in having with us Mr. John Maloney, who entertained us with songs and stories galore. This gentleman possesses considerable talent.

The president-elect of Covington lodge, who by the way, is a man of considerable tálent and ability, told some rattling good stories, and when you get him started there is none better, and the boys were busy crying for

more.

You can readily imagine that the inner man was well taken care of, and we owe it to Brother Murrey to assert that he clung to his post all evening with great persistency.

The manner in which all present conducted themselves was creditable to all concerned.

Let us never forget the social features, brothers, and above all things come out to the regular meetings; show your intelligence, debate, argue and vote fearlessly for those things, which in your estimation, stand for the betterment of our beloved order.

The writer wishes to convey through the columns of our Journal to the Brotherhood throughout our land a happy and prosperous New Year, frought with the victories and achievements so honestly due the B. of R. C. BLUE GRASS.

ROCHESTER No. 56.

At a regular meeting of our local held December 3 the report of the New York Central Adjustment Board was read, and while it was not as favorable as had been hoped for, nevertheless it met with our hearty approval, and a letter to that effect was drafted to the chairman of the committee, a copy of same being forwarded to our grand president. We recognize the fact that during the present financial stringency recognition is a pronounced victory, paving the way, as it does, for future negotiations.

On Thanksgiving eve we held our second annual dance in Culver hall, which was attended by over 100 couples. Music was furnished by the 54th Regiment Orchestra of seven pieces. Lunch and refreshments were served by the committee in charge and the hall was tastefully decorated by Mr. F. F. Sabey, one of Rochester's most enterprising decorators, who also furnished the decorations for our fifth annual banquet held in the pretty dining room of the Clinton hotel, December 5. "Mine Host" Geo. W. Johnson, proprietor of the hostelry, and wife, had prepared an appetizing menu to which Our members and speakers sat down promptly at 9 p. m., and of which little remained, some little time later. Mr. Johnson and his manager, Mr. M. E. O'Brien, are to be commended on the vast transformation which they have brought about in this hotel in the past few months. After all had partaken sumptously, President Reynolds welcomed our members and guests and named "Jerry" Dunn, our efficient secretary and treasurer, as toastmaster.. Brother Dunn, in a capable manner, introduced Hon. John D. Lynn, one of Rochester's foremost attorneys, who was followed by Brother H. I. Rigby of Geneva Local No. 61. Mr. Harry Sherman, one of our foremost labor men, was the last speaker of the evening. Moll's orchestra furnished music from 8:30 p. m. until midnight, after which the members, unanimous in their belief that our fifth annual banquet had eclipsed all others, wended their way from the brilliantly lighted lobby to their various homes.

The executive committee is to be congratulated on the fact that the dance was a distinct financial success and that our treasury is in far better condition than ever before; brought about by the success of the picnic and dance. The cost of the banquet was assumed by the local, and at no individual expense to the members.

On December 3 nominations of officers for the ensuing year were made and on December 17 our annual election of officers took place. Frother Chas. A. Murphy, the oldest member of our local and the only charter member remaining, was the unanimous

choice for president. Brother Hanmer was elected vice-president, Bother Dunn reelected Secretary-Treasurer, Brother Winleigh, sergeant-at-arms, Brother Fisher chaplain, and Brothers Paul, Jermyn, Lote, Cleary, Yant and Turney members of the executive board. The installation of officers will take place January 7.

Brother B. H. Reynolds, our retiring president, will, on January 1, take up organization work in the capacity of organizer, and although we thereby lose our most energetic member, the Grand Lodge is the gainer, as his untiring efforts in our behalf since he became one of us, but more especially since becoming our president, has placed Rochester Local No. 56 on a firmer and better standing than ever before. The Grand Lodge is to be congratulated on its choice of this sterling young man; and that he may carry with him the same energy and perseverence as has marked his membership with usthereby insuring success-is the earnest hope of Rochester Local No. 56. Our only regret is that instead of being assigned to the New York Central, as we had hoped, he will go to the D. & H. system, but through the columns of The Clerk we will at least have the satisfaction of hearing from him оссаsionally.

With fraternal regards to all locals, I will close. CORRESPONDENT.

DALLAS No. 45.

Wth one hundred couples in line, Brother F. P. Brown and Miss Irene Lewis led the grand march at our first annual ball, given last Friday night, December 20, at the Cliff hotel. The affair was a success and everybody enjoyed a delightful evening.

This was our first annual ball and we came out in good shape. We met with a few obstacles, however, on account of the holidays being so near at hand and the financial stringency still pressing down upon us. Next year we hope to have double our success and nothing will be left undone to make the affair a grand and brilliant occasion never to be forgotten; we cleared $150; guess that wasn't going some.

What's the matter with those fellows who have sent in their applications and have not been up to be initiated? Get behind them. brothers, and corral them up; put a bridle and halter on them and drive them up to the lodge room, we have an abundant supply of alfalfa, and will give Bill a good hearty meal and then turn him loose on them. He will make Panhandle Pete's goat look like thirty cents.

Our worthy Brother Alex. Kennedy, for twenty-two years a faithful and hard working employee of the T. & P. and a number one good man, was on December 1 pulled off to reduce the force. We are glad, though, that on December 20 he was sent for and put back to work again. He has for the past two years been bulk track clerk, but he is now delivering freight in the warehouse. Good luck to you, Brother Kennedy. Brother H. B. Mueller, revising in the T.

& P. auditor's office, is spending the holidays at his old home in St. Joseph, Mo.

Brother T. J. Roots, ex-cashier at Sweetwater for the T. & P., but now revising in the auditor's office, spent Xmas with his family in Kerens, Texas.

Brother F. P. Brown and wife spent Christmas with their family in Longview, Texas. Brother Brown is also on the revising desk in T. & P. auditor's office.

Effective January 1, 1908, Brother J. P. Dueson, revising clerk in the T. & P, auditor's office, will be made chief clerk of the agent's accounts. Good luck to you, Brother Dueson.

Dallas No. 45 had the honor of a pleasant visit from our worthy and estimable Grand President, Brother Wilbur Braggins, during the month. He delivered some very interesting addresses which were very beneficial to us. We will be glad to have you with us again, Brother Braggins. Brother Innerarity was also with us; always glad to see you, Brother J. B.

Everything being quieted down now is our time to get busy. Wake up, brothers of No. 45, let's bring old 45 up to 200. We can do it. All it needs is some good hustling. The material is here in Dallas, so get busy, let's get them. Don't let their paltry excuses discourage you; if you can't land them, turn them over to another brother, let him try his hand. We can get them, don't let anything stand in your way-go right after them. "The more, the merrier," so get busy,

get busy.

WALLACE H. WINFIELD.

WILMINGTON (DEL.) No. 67.

We notice that not many of the lodges are writing for the Journal. Apparently they do not realize what a vast amount of interest this effort is to the Brotherhood at large.

Wilmington Lodge is only one month old, having been organized November 17, 1907, and the writer being new at the business has scanned the correspondence columns closely to see what sister lodges are doing along this line.

Outside of New York state we notice that most of the membership has been in the West and South but with the institution of Wilmington Lodge starts the grand movement in an entirely new section, in the little state of Delaware, which has heretofore been unknown to the Brotherhood. Even though a small state she has the distinction of having to pass through her narrow confines one of the greatest trunk lines of the country, the Pennsylvania R. R., terminating in a new handsome union depot at the nation's capital.

Wilmington clerks have long felt the need of organization and one or two efforts were previously made to organize, but through circumstances prevailing at the time, were unable to get the ship started on its proper course, but the present move, so far, seems to be most successful.

With only one meeting held, November 3, 1907, the boys seemed to have become SO inspired with the spirit of organization that

they at once applied for the services of an organizer, which was readily complied with and on November 17, 1907, Brother A. L Beebe, national organizer, paid us a visit; there being 45 present, all signed the appli-cation for charter and were properly organized as Wilmington Lodge No. 67.

At the conclusion of tonight's meeting we are 102 members to the good, so you see we are making rapid progress and much alive; in fact, the clerks are just simply falling over each other to get into the organization so anxious are they to join.

We also have been very fortunate in getting some minstrel talent in our ranks and are now preparing for an elaborate minstrel show to come off in the near future to raise some funds for our treasury.

Since the institution of No. 67 we learn that a lodge has been established in Philadelphia, another new and most important point; another instituted at Sunbury and others in sight at Harrisburg and Baltimore. So you see there is something doing on the Pennsylvania.

We sincerely hope that within a very short time the entire Pennsylvania System will be taken into the order and some special efforts made throughout that large state of Pennsylvania where we notice but one lodge.

Writing of an article by our sister lodges is of great information and interest to all, especially to the new membership who are eager for as much information as they can obtain.

Best wishes to all and the most of success, WILMINGTON NO. 67.

EAST ST. LOUIS No. 165. At last! Here we are, do you know us? Well, brother members, as we have only been organized a short time, Local 165 (E. St. Louis, Ill.) has not taken the chance of publishing an article through these columns of the Journal. We have been organized since the latter part of August, 1907, and started with fifteen charter members. Since that time we have been adding new members at nearly every meeting. We are here to stay and are out for the leadership of Illinois, and I hope we shall succeed in doing so. We have quite a few applications from nonmembers and it is our desire that all of them will join the Brotherhood and hope that others will come from the lonely wayside. Most of the nons have been waiting for our start and strife through the Brotherhood, before they would join; but as we now have a bunch of members who will always stand by the dear old motto "Don't give up the ship," look out for us. We have members on whom we can depend, and each and every one is a worker from heart as well as with the tongue. We have taken four new members into our fold since our last meeting and still have eight more applications under consideration for next meeting, all of whom I expect to see become hard working members. A certain company entering East St. Louis is trying to get the bill clerks to work