The
first one that he examined conferred certain valuable privileges, in
perpetuity, upon a corporation without requiring any compensation for
the franchise. The property thus alienated from public use had been
paid for by the people's money. In response to a vigorous push on an
electric button, the private secretary appeared.
"Send for Senator Downing. I must see him immediately."
His Excellency thought, "How can the people's so-called
representatives give away the property of the people so
indiscriminately? It would not do to mention it, without proof, but I
am convinced that all such public robberies are for private gain. Ah,
good-morning, Senator."
Senator Downing was a short, heavily-built man, with dark hair, black
eyes, and a jaw and chin indicative of bull-dog pertinacity.
"In your bill, Senate 513, I notice that the railroad Company is not
called upon to pay for the great privilege conferred."
"Why should they? It simply gives them a quick connection with tide-
water, and reduced transportation charges means lower prices."
"How will prices be regulated?" was the Governor's query.
"As they always have been," replied the Senator brusquely. "Supply
and demand--"
"And by combinations called trusts," added the Governor. "Cannot some
provision be made by which the Company will pay a yearly rental? It
will reduce the burden of taxation just so much.
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