26 



unexpected condition develops. The pre- 

 vention of any such outcome is to be aimed 

 at, and I can conceive of no prophylactic 

 measure that promises more certain protec- 

 tion against "bread tickets," "meatless 

 days," and the rationing of the American 

 people, than the early organization of a Na- 

 tional Food Commission, with "power to 

 act'.'' 



It is hardly necessary to point out that 

 the organization of a National Food Com- 

 mission is an emergency procedure entirely, 

 designed to meet abnormal conditions 

 created by the European war and the forced 

 participation of this country in it. It 

 should not supersede, nor interfere with the 

 activities of the present departments of the 

 < rovernment : on the contrary, its efforts 

 should aim at as perfect cooperation and 

 collaboration with these as may be possible, 

 in order that it may achieve the specific 

 purpose for which it is to be organized, with 

 the highot degree of efficiency and success. 

 By utilizing the wealth of information of 

 the Departments of Agriculture and of 

 Commerce and Labor, a very great saving 

 oi time and effort may be accomplished. 

 Obviously, great tact and intelligence will 

 be needed in carrying out the purpose, and 

 in performing the special duties of a Na- 

 tional Food Commission. But with the ex- 

 ercise of care and crood sense, it is reason- 



