the act of 1882 was not because of the restriction. proposed per se, but because of the interpretation sought to be attached to the word "laborers." To give greater significancy to the interpretation, President Arthur had declared in his veto message that the American commissioners inserted in their draft of the treaty a provision that the words "Chinese laborers" meant all immigration other than that for "teaching, travel, study, and curiosity," to which the Chinese objected. The conflict, he thought, could be avoided by simple use of the word in a law as it was used in the treaty. That this was his view is further and absolutely confirmed by his action in connection with the subsequent act (now a law) of 1886. As a historical fact, the bill had been drafted by Senator Fair, of California, and the three Federal judges of the Pacific coast who were principally charged with the administration of the law in reference to Chinese immigration. There can be no question that it represented the sentiment of the great Pacific section. When introduced, it was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, of which Senator Harrison was a member. It was reported back on the 26th of May, with recommendation of passage. The Record shows Senator Harrison absent and not voting when it was finally considered. But we are not left in doubt as to his position concerning it. Senator Sher man, in reporting it to the Senate, stated clearly and distinctly that the bill had received the unanimous support of the committee-meaning the entire committee. This, it will be seen, could not have been if Senator Harrison had not concurred with all his colleagues. In conclusion, we think it has been fairly proved beyond any doubt that General Harrison is not so far friendly to the Chinese as to be inimical to the desire of his fellow-citizens of the Pacific coast to restrict the coming of the former to the United States. By General Harrison is now in the prime of life, clear in mind, vigorous of body. His character, both public and private, is absolutely stainless. He loves his family, his fellow-men, his country, and his God. Such a man cannot be inflated by success or embittered by disappointment. acceptance of the nomination of his party he has signified that he holds himself subject to the popular will. Whether he is chosen or set aside by the people, his future will be in perfect harmony with his past. In other words, the writer who finishes this biography, beginning where we leave off, will find his subject exactly what it has been to us-too pleasant to be accounted a task. |