“There are few, if any, questions that should attract the attention of 
he law-makers to a greater extent, because of its public import- 
ince. All will concede the vast importance of the commercial and 
nanufacturing interests of the country, and in recognition of their 
mportance these interests have received aid and protection from the 
xyovernment; but no one can say they are of paramount import- 
ince, more than an abundant supply of cheap food for the people, 
10r should the sources of such a supply be sacrificed to either or 
oth of the other great interests. Commerce, manufactures and 
rade concern the opulent or persons in easy circumstances, but the © 
supply of food vitally concerns the struggling masses upon whose 
abor the other interests are wholly dependent. Their labor is in- 
lispensable to the very existence of commerce, manufactures and 
rade, and their interests and wants are of as essential importance, 
ind are as worthy of the protection of Government as the others.”’ 
Respectfully submitted, 
N. K. Farrpank, 
5. P. BARTLETT, 
Gro. BREUNING. 
