14 TRAXSACtlONS OF THE ILLINOIS' 



through their representatives, to repeal laws that give dissatisfaction. I 

 think this is one of the important features to look at, in this controversy 

 between the parties. I understand that the railroad companies, in ac- 

 cepting a charter containing any ])rivilcges, do so at the peril of having 

 these privileges withdrawn, for sufficient reasons. In asking and receiv- 

 ing privileges from the State, they are supjjosed to subserve the interests 

 of the State. So that this question of public opinion is what we are after. 

 Let this Society, and let our public joufnals speak out — and then 

 when the question comes up for action, the decision of courts and 

 judges will be likely to accord with the will of the people; until that 

 time arrives we shall have to V^t"^ pcf^^ging away. [Laughter.] 



Mr. Wier — There is another regulation which the railroads have in 

 regard to nursery stock baled, and in boxes. If I send apple trees 

 for example, in boxes, the charges are for first-class freight ; if in bales 

 double first-class freight. Why this discrimination is I do not know. I 

 can bale a hundred apple trees so that they can go just as safely as in 

 boxes. 



Mr. Dunlap — I think I can explain this matter. This regulation 

 of freight • rates in regard to boxed and baled nursery stock was made 

 when the roads first commenced to ship trees to the West. It was found 

 that trees not in boxes reached their destination in bad order — and the 

 railroad parties had to pay for the dead trees, in many cases ; but there 

 is not now, as formerly, the danger from this cause, and trees are safely 

 shipped in bales. 



The only reason a change has not been made is, that the matter has 

 not been brought before the railroad officials when they meet in council 

 to fix their rates. The Illinois Central road now charges first-class rates 

 for trees in bales and second-class rates for trees in boxes. I think there 

 is no doubt, if this Society would recommend to the railroad companies 

 a change, it could be had without difficulty. It would encourage the 

 shipment of trees, and ultimately increase the traffic of the roads. I 

 believe all the Western railroads are willing to come into this measure ; 

 the only thing wanted is to get the subject before them when they meet 

 in council. Eastern roads, I believe, charge third-class rates on nur- 

 sery stock ; so that some of the roads are coming down as fast as their 

 consciences will allow. [Laughter.] 



Mr. Galusha — I want this committee, if appointed, to take steps 

 to secure a reduction of fares to the members of this Society, attending 



