tion and had the courage not only to urge the matter in committee, but on the floor of the convention, and his lucid explanation made it clear to the majority that the law was unjust. If the overtime law of the last three years was unfair (if not unconstitutional) to the regular it is equally true that the proposed amendment by Mr. Nolan would be one of the heaviest blows ever inflicted on the sub. At present conditions are gradually adjusting themselves in New York, and, as was predicted two years ago, there is a noticeable reduction in the number of subs, and fewer new arrivals in town, undoubtedly due to the removal of the incentive created by the five-and-a-half-hour law.

As election time approaches in New York the overtime law subject has been injected into the campaign by office and delegate aspirants, and it is rumored that a proposition will be submitted at the May meeting of No. 6 seeking to instruct the delegates to the next convention to work for the repeal of the law. It seems to me rather a late date (eight months after the convention) to resur rect this question.

The overtime law has been adjusted, it is presumed satisfactorily, and the subject should not be revived; but the priority question is still unsettled, and it is hoped that something definite may be done at San Francisco. that local option would New York, N. Y.

With Mr. Nolan, I agree go far toward a solution. SAM MCCANDLESS.

LOCAL COMMITTEES ON SUPPLEMENTAL

EDUCATION.

The attention of the International Typographical Union membership is called to the question as to whether or not it would be wise for local unions, at their next annual elections, to appoint a new standing committee, to be known as the "committee on supplemental education," the province of said committee being to assist the International Typographical Union in its work in that field. Such a committee should endeavor to bring the attention of job and ad men (especially the younger generation) to the desirable features of the I. T. U. Course, and recommend to the local unions the most effective methods of placing its benefits within reach of the apprentice members.

This committee might search the local public libraries, and compile for the use of the membership a list of the books and magazines therein contained relating to or bearing on printing and the allied arts, specifying as to each publication the particular department of the library in which it is deposited-art, science, reference, circulating, or the reading room-and thus send the man with an artistic soul or romantic interest delving in the fields of bibliography, philology, archology, architecture and plastic art, so that when called upon to produce a title page, program or circular pertaining to some particular period, locality or product of the past, he may use the type or material synchronizing with that period, locality or product, and make use of its appropriate symbolism for decorative effects.

For instance, we have a certain series of type named after one Della Robbia. Who or what was he? What was his nationality? What was his influence on the community and the period in which he lived, and what contribution did he make to the field of art that his name should be thus made familiar to printers? Was some particular style of lettering in vogue, during his time, in writing, printing, or in architectural or sculptured designs?

Much material in the way of symbolizing may be picked up from the study of the basketry and blanket work of the American Indian, and motifs worked out therefrom for conventionalized border designs and other decorative schemes. How many

of us know what mineral pigments or vegetable dyes were, because of their availability, invariably used by Indians of the various pueblos, and therefore why certain color combinations are especially appropriate to be used in printing relating to Indian pottery, basketry, or weaving?

The above is enough to suggest the outlook for such a committee. Members of local unions having any ideas to propose or any suggestions to make regarding supplemental education could turn them over to the proposed committee for consideration.

Criticism or discussion of this proposition, hostile or otherwise, is invited by the writer, in the hope that something of value may be developed. Springfield, Mass. GEORGE J. MURCH.

THE PRINTER'S DREAM FARM.*

In the rose-dawn of life's early morning,
When the freshness of youth mounts the brow,
He was wearily inking the roller,

With his thoughts far away on the plow. Though he never had seen the green meadows, Nor had tasted real milk, sweet and warm

A child of the smoke-reeking city

He planned to some day own a farm.

He passed through the stage of two-thirder; He learned how to pound the machine; But above the click and the rumble

He thought of the farm rich and green. The foreman was gruff and fault-finding, And sometimes the burdens were sore. Then he thought of the farm by the river And the little boat tied to the shore.

His face it grew old and wrinkled,

And Father Time whitened his hair.
Then ofttimes his courage was fleeting
And he was near giving up in despair.
But through the gloom and the darkness
There came a rare vision so sweet,
And in the fair dreamland of fancy
Was a farm with its green fields of wheat.
But one night his old head fell forward;
On the keyboard his fingers were still,
And the machinist said to the bankboy:
"I'm afraid that's the last of poor Bill."
The foreman raised his head gently;

But human aid's power had passed.
A smile o'erspread the cold features-
He'd gone to his dream farm at last.

*Every printer plans to end his days on a farm -and dies in the harness. St. Louis, Mo.

DICK WORK.

ALL the beauty in the world, 'tis but skin deep. -Ralph Venning.

SAN FRANCISCO, CAL.

A side trip that visitors from out-of-California points should take when they see San Francisco next August is to the wonderland of Yosemite valley and the Mariposa big tree grove. These beautiful resorts are only about thirty miles apart, and 155 miles from San Francisco in an air line. Set high up in the Sierra Nevada mountains, with the perfume of pines and firs to soothe the senses, and with nature offering the best at her disposal, the journey may now be taken quickly and comfortably.

In bygone years there was only a stage line running along the dusty mountain roads. A preferable way to travel was to walk from the termination of the nearest railroad point. By so doing the scenery could be enjoyed to better advantage, and the excellent accommodation houses along the route provided all that was necessary for the inner man. For a real vacation, this method, or that of camping out, is superior to the fly-by-night train, although calling for time and preparation.

Now the transportation companies have the problem down to a science, and delegates and their friends can easily, in a few days, seek that pleasure and profit that comes from such an outing.

The Yosemite valley is a natural gorge in the eastern portion of Mariposa county. Its elevation is about 4,000 feet. Its length is seven miles, from half a mile to a mile in width, and is sunk to a perpendicular depth of about 4,000 feet below the general level of the adjoining country. The floor of the valley contains 1,141 acres, and through its center flows the Merced river.

The United States, by an act of congress approved June 30, 1864, granted Yosemite valley and the Mariposa big tree grove to the state of California. In 1905 the California legislature receded and regranted to the United States this park, and it is now under the control of the interior department.

One's education as a traveler is not complete until the prismatic effect of the sun's rays on the stately waterfalls of Yosemite have been viewed. The fall named after the valley drops 3,000 feet in three leaps. Those accustomed to the short distance Niagara consumes in sending over its tons of water can hardly realize such a fall as Yosemite. Then come the willowy Bridal Veil falls, aptly named, and the best of all, in the opinion of many-Vernal falls.

The gigantic rocks that rear their heads heavenward are worth seeing alone-the Half Dome, El Capitan, Cathedral Spires, the Three Brothers, and others.

It is impossible to do more, at this time, than

refer in general terms to the beauty spot of California. In the summer and fall, owing to the long dry spell that is invariably the state's portion, the weather is a rare inducement to stay out of doors, and the combination of green sward, massive cliffs, waterfalls of various sizes, and scenery unexcelled anywhere, gives to the Yosemite valley a renown that is world-wide.

Galen Clark discovered the Mariposa grove in 1857. The trees were called by the natives "Wahwo-nah" (Indian for big trees). Scientists have given the name "Sequoia" to the species. There are in the neighborhood of 621 trees in the two groves, and Mr. Clark is authority for the statement that the average hight is about 275 feet, though some few have been found to exceed 325 feet. Their average diameter at the ground is twenty feet, though there are some that exceed thirty feet. Their altitude varies from 5,750 feet to 7,140 feet, and their age has been variously estimated at from 5,000 to 8,000 years in fact, the learned gentlemen who delve into these matters have had many a quarrel over this point. It is a consolation that probably they know as much about it as the rest of us.

The best-known tree in the grove is "Wawona." Readers are more or less familiar with its picture showing the tunnel, ten feet square, through which the road runs, as well as the stages and other vehicles laden with passengers. Other Sequoias are named. Famous Americans have bequeathed their cognomens to splendid trees, and the new woman is represented by a plate on a superb specimen which bears the inscription "Susan B. Anthony."

The circumference of most of the trees in the Mariposa grove is almost unbelievable. They are indeed to be classed among nature's wonders. The Calaveras grove in another county contains as large, if not larger, trees, but Mariposa's proximity to Yosemite valley gives it the advantage of superior advertising facilities.

In another direction, and easily accessible from San Francisco, are springs of curative qualities in the midst of magnificent scenery. People who have traveled the world over have expressed themselves as delighted to have had the opportunity of seeing these resorts in Lake county.

In every direction, north, south, east-but not west-there is a wealth of scenic beauty to attract the traveler. Mountains and valleys extend their welcome. The graceful redwood trees and foliage of all description add their charm. That the prospect pleases is as true as when those words were first written, for California is a state that will, in the years to come, have a popu' ion compared to which the people of the present day will

form but a small proportion. This means that now, before settlers make their homes in out-ofthe-way places, that the great out-of-doors of which we are so proud may be viewed to the best possible advantage. The woodman's ax and the call of civilization mar a great deal of primitive beauty, and while California is so constituted that it may truthfully be said that these forces will never deprive her of the indescribable power to lure, yet he who would woo nature at her best prefers to be far away from the toot of the locomotive engine or the glare of bright lights.

This is written for a purpose. It is an invitation to participate. Why travel long distances, or short, and merely see the metropolis by the Golden

naturally come many an ardent wish to secure a copy of this book. It will be impossible to fill the demand, unless there is the most hearty co-operation on the part of those who enjoy good printing and who follow specimens of typography that lead.

Subscriptions for the official souvenir will be received up to and including June 15. Members of the International Typographical Union, or others interested, may secure a copy by forwarding $2 to L. Michelson, secretary-treasurer San Francisco Typographical Union, room 237, 787 Market street. More than one copy may be ordered, of course, the rate to be $2 for each book. It is necessary to send the money with the order, so that an accurate order for printing may be given.

Gate? Perhaps the trip may never be your portion again. Plan to stay a week or two after you get here and see the real sights. If that is done, there will come many a moment of thankfulness that good advice was followed, and to the children of succeeding generations will be told the history of the trip "out west" to the romantic California shore.

Mention was made in the March letter of the joy that is coming in the form of the official souvenir for the fifty-seventh annual convention of the

International Typographical Union. The plans are bearing fruit. A book that will be all that is claimed is to be issued. Every device known to the art of arts will be called upon to do its share toward the general result. There will

In a publication of this character and size it is absolutely impossible to tell how many copies to print unless the preliminary requirements are fulfilled. The high grade of work and the size, to say naught of the value of the literary section, make it obligatory that extra orders be placed at an early date. It will take some time to print and bind the souvenir, and as there will be a demand of unprecedented proportions after the work is complete, it behooves those who want a copy of the best piece of printing ever turned out in the west, or possibly in the world, to send in their order, or orders, before the fifteenth day of next June.

In the next communication the writer expects to give an outline of the plans of the committees

in charge of entertainment and reception. They are working valiantly, and have surprises in store. Unions all along the Pacific coast are showing their loyalty to the International Typographical Union and their desire to add all that is possible to western hospitality by arranging for trips for delegates and visitors, as well as co-operating with the printers of San Francisco in the heavier work. The metropolis has a unique record in the labor world. In proportion to size, it probably is the best organized city in the world, and many of the problems that confront the trade union movement are destined to be worked out on the Pacific coast. When you add to this the advantages of climate and scenery, and the August assemblage of notables and others in the ranks of printerdom, all joined to a determination to do the very best we can to make everybody welcome, it will readily be seen that San Francisco's cordial extension of the right hand of fellowship is not founded on any false premise. WILL J. FRENCH.

The following bills favorable to organized labor were passed at the recent session of the California legislature and have been signed by the governor: Employers' liability and workmen's compensation, which abolishes the fellow-servant rule and assumption of risk and also modifies the contributory negligence clause; eight-hour bill for women; trade mark and label bill, designed to protect the union label; seamen's bill, which repeals the section of the penal code that makes it a misdemeanor to entice seamen to desert; child labor bill, forbids employment of minors under the age of 18 years between the hours of 10 P. M. and 5 A. M.; the full-crew bill, fathered by the railroad brotherhoods, and which provides that full crews must be carried on all trains. A constitutional amendment providing that the state board of education "may" cause text books to be printed and distributed free to the pupils in the common and elementary schools of the state, was passed and will go to a referendum vote. This amendment is not so specific as that drawn up and advocated by No. 21, which made free distribution compulsory.

Thomas J. Carroll, on the exempt roll of No. 21, but who was for many years employed in the composing room of the Bulletin, died in Oakland on March 21, age 58 years.

Late in March Secretary Michelson received word from Indianapolis that his mother, who is a resident of that city, had suffered a stroke of paralysis.

As an extra inducement for members to be active in the matter of looking up printing that does not bear the allied printing trades label, the label committee of the union is now offering theater tickets to the person bringing in the most samples. Two tickets are given away each month as a prize.

J. R. Putnam has resigned his position as machinist on the Examiner to take charge of the linotypes on the Oakland Tribune.

Sergeant-at-Arms David G. Lewis celebrated his seventy-fifth birthday on April 12.

The Union Printers' Mutual Aid Society, at its

quarterly meeting on April 9, 1911, voted to invest $5,000 of its surplus money in the bonds of the new Labor Temple and the Geary street municipal railroad. The apportionment is $2,000 to the temple and $3,000 for the railroad bonds.

The secretary reports that during the monthMarch 15 to April 15-seventy traveling cards were received. As a consequence there has been a considerable addition to the ranks of our unemployed members. This is particularly unfortunate at this time, as work has been very dull in the job branch for the past two months. The total earnings of all members show a falling off of from $5,000 to $10,000 a month from those reported for November, December and January.

An effort is being made to organize a printers' club in this city, and prospects are that it will be a go.

H. H. Gould and W. R. Meredith left this city on April 6 for a trip to Europe. They will also visit the land of the Pharaohs, and will be absent about four months.

The union at its March meeting amended its election laws, and the coming election will be held under them. The chapel system is retained, in so far as the receiving of ballots is concerned, but the counting will be done by a canvassing board of eight members, to be elected by the union.

James King Phillips, the oldest member of No. 21, and who has been an active worker in the ranks of organized labor for many years, resigned as a delegate to the Asiatic Exclusion League at the last meeting, and contemplates spending his declining years on a government claim which he has taken up in the eastern part of the state. He expects to plant an orchard and care for it until it reaches maturity. Mr. Phillips is still hale and hearty, and believes that if a man takes proper care of himself he can live just as long as he wills to live.

As I am writing this letter the morning papers contain news that the brewery workers have won their strike in Los Angeles, and that inside of thirty days every man who came out will be back at work. And this has taken place in Otistown! Further than this, reports are coming in to the effect that the iron trades unions are in pretty good shape in their fight. H. L. WHITE.

THE MISSOURI SPECIAL TO 'FRISCO,

The St. Louis correspondent in last month's JOURNAL referred to the plan of the St. Louis delegation for the trip to the Pacific coast, and suggested all interested to write to the undersigned for particulars.

We have been in receipt of many letters of inquiry, and these have been filed so that when the plan has fully developed full information will be forthcoming.

When the information in THE JOURNAL was given the correspondent we had in mind taking from St. Louis our usual congenial bunch, supplemented by those coming through St. Louis. Since that time there has been a get-together of the St. Joseph, Kansas City and St. Louis hosts, and the

plan now is for a special train-the Missouri Special. This train is to be equipped with all the comforts and conveniences to make the journey pleasant. The arrangements from the St. Louis end are now being planned by H. M. Dressell, of the Wabash railway, who has given us such splendid service in the past. If you have ever made the trip with the St. Louis bunch you know what that

means.

We will have room for everybody, and everybody is invited to go with us. Immediately after the election we will have our circulars printed and sent to all delegates. If you are not a delegate and desire information, write and all infor mation will be forwarded. An effort is now being made to get as low a rate as possible, and we assure you of as low a rate as any other route and a much more pleasant time. We want to show you. Don't complete your arrangements until you have written us, then we know that you will be on the Missouri Special. Write for information to Frank O. Martin, St. Joseph, Mo.; W. F. Spang, Kansas City, or Charles Hertenstein, 408 Burlington building, St. Louis, Mo. CHARLES HERTENSTEIN.

LOS ANGELES, CAL.

On April 12 was held the first "get-together" session of the allied printing trades, and that it was a success is beyond doubt. A glance at the menu would prove whether or not the gathering was of a distinctly beneficial character. It is expected and hoped that the succeeding meetings will bring out a larger attendance and stimulate an increased interest in trade topics. Upon a knowledge of these vital subjects depends the success and prosperity of the employer, and upon his measure of prosperity depends in like measure the prosperity of the journeyman; therefore, it behooves the journeyman to acquire all the knowl edge possible regarding his own line of business, for 'tis well said that "a little knowledge is a dangerous thing."

On April 12 was formed in Portland, Ore., an organization known as the Pacific Coast Employers' Association. This is the "union" that is going to free the employers from the galling and enthralling shackles of the union labor tyrants and relieve them of the merciless domination of an oppressive oligarchy of piratical industrial plunderers (vide the Times). But the breweries in Los Angeles signed up three days afterward. An organized effort is to be made to declare the "open shop" on the entire Pacific coast and to combat the eight-hour day. The efforts of this little band of business heroes (?) to stem the tide of advancing economic and industrial progress, ever and ever gaining strength and virility as it forges forward and upward, are enough to induce hilarious cachination on the part of the Egyptian sphinx. And the most amusing part of it all is that these astute votaries at the shrine of "big business" prattle ceaselessly and earnestly regarding their interest in "progress," and actually expect their chatter to be taken seriously by the public. If it has to be done, now is just as good as any other time to

have a one great, grand battle and have it over with. We have had guerrilla warfare and bushwhacking long enough; now let the forces be marshaled for a decisive engagement. I venture the assertion that when this is done and the inevitable peace pact is signed that it will be a good time before either party tries open warfare again. It will be good for both sides.

Organizer Stein was elected president of the allied printing trades council, and Otto H. Schaeffer was elected a member of the executive board of the council, which shows that we are doing some business there.

On Sunday, May 14, will be held the great combined picnic of the allied printing trades at Playa del Rey. It promises to be an event of great importance in printing circles, and with reasonable prices quoted and the entertainment promised, should have an enormous attendance. A fine list of sports has been arranged, among which I note two baseball games, two tugs-of-war, a wrestling match, tub races, sack race, swimming race, fat men's race, and several other races and jumping contests. As a "get-together" measure this picnic is the best idea promulgated for several years.

Printers are getting in evidence at the Sunday night meetings being held in the Labor Temple. Recently Joe Phillis delivered an address on the "open shop," and Claude Sheckels has delivered two addresses recently, his latest being "Why I Am a Socialist." Our Labor Temple is now the scene of the most intense activity, there being "something doing" every day and night. The Political Club and the Mutual Organization League are doing business night and day, and the negro and Mexican laborers are flocking to the standard of unionism. A recent week was reported as a dull week, "only" seventy-four members being added to our ranks. Seventy-five teamsters were added to the local organization in one week very recently. The brewery workers' strike was formally declared off on April 14, and the men returned to work on the 17th. This strike began May 11, 1910, and ended in a complete victory for the men. And this was done in Los Angeles, mind you, gentlemen, the fountain head of "industrial freedom." One big structural steel job was unionized some weeks ago, and, in view of the great number of "skyscraper" buildings to be erected in the near future, prospects look bright for a settlement of the metal trades strike, and especially as the metal trades are ready and willing to concede part of their original demands.

A new linotyping-for-the-trade concern, known as the Western Linotyping Company, has been established by Messrs. Randall, Reed and Foltz. They have already in a few weeks of operation secured a very good clientele of customers....J. D. Gilmer is reported as being quite ill at this writing. He and his son Robert have moved their machine plant to the basement of the W. P. Jeffries building....W. W. (Bill) Bird has emigrated from the Angel City, but not as a permanent programnothing like that...."Dan" Williams became possessed of a long strip of paper, and with it in his possession started on the long jump straight through