The Governor resumed his reading of the labour bill, but was aroused
from his contemplation of its provisions by the entrance of Mr. Amos
Acton. Mr. Acton was secretary of a manufacturer's association. He
was tall and spare. His hair was sandy in hue, and his mouth twitched
nervously.
"Your Excellency, I came to see you about that picketing bill. If it
becomes a law our manufacturers will be driven from the State. They
are now seriously handicapped by the vigorous provisions of existing
laws. I trust your Excellency will not add to our present burdens."
"I have read the bill, Mr. Acton. It seems conservative, with full
provision for the protection of life and property."
"That's not the question. When Union men strike we must have the Non-
Union men to fill their places; but this bill says the Non-Union man
shan't work."
"It says the Union man may persuade him, peacefully, not to work."
"We all know what that means. If he does work, he will be called a
'scab' and his family will be ostracized in every possible way."
"It is hard to draw the line," said the governor. "You say, or imply,
that every man has a right to work for whoever will employ him.
Granted. But do you always give him work when he wants it? Do you pay
him what he asks, or do you not fix the rate of wage? You must
realize the fact that collective bargaining has superseded dealing
with the individual.
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