The New York Times from New York, New York • Page 5

HEARING OH THE CHARTER 1. Gov. Black Listens for Several Hours to Arguments Fcr and Against the Measure. VARIOUS STRONG PROTESTS. Charles Stewart Smith, John E.

Par--- aora, and Others Speak Against tha Organic Act, Which Is Defended by Qen. Tracy, ex-Mayor Gllroy, and 1 ex-Judge Dillon. ALBANT, April 10. Got. Black gave a aeertng oa the Greater New York Charter to-day.

The opponents of the charter made a strong showing, both aa regards numbers nd argument The delegation from New Iork City, which arrived here on the Empire State Express shortly after 11 o'clock, comprised over sixty persons who are closely allied with and students of municipal government Charles Stewart Smith, the organizer of this movement, and John E. rrons presented the principal arguments against the charter. Others present were Joseph Larocque, Lewis L. Del Held. Horace EDemingt and William B.

Hornblow-er. for the Bar Association; J. Noble Hayes, Dorman B. Eaton. James W.

Pryor, for the City Club: A. Barton Hepburn, for the Clearing House Association; Alfred E. Marling, Richard Deevea. and John Doyle, for the Real-Estate Exchange, and CoL Will-lam E. Rogers.

In behalf of the Union League Club. The others In the delegation were James T. Woodward. A. Frlssell, John P.

Nicholson Kane, John M. Bowers. G. Waldo Smith. Jefferson XL, Levy, A.

A- Levey, -Dr. Thomas E. Satterthwalte, John Connelly, John O. Agar. Benjamin P.

Romaine. S. Da Wall- tearss, Moses Ottinger, M. K. Jesup, Le Grand B.

Cannon, Charles B. Hubbell, E. Ellery Anderson, Austen O. Fox, William Jay. H.

B. Turner, Isaac N. Sellgman. J. J.

Sinclair, Salem H. Wales, Isaac T. Smith, rank R. Lawrence, O. Williams, B.

B. Freeman. John Wllmarth. W. W.

Sherman, B. W. Bishop, C. A. Brlsted, T.

H. Betts, Oeorge W. Young, W. Bayard Cutting. Joaepta S.

Auerbaeh. Edward Mitchell, W. A. Short, A. L.

White. Mr. Garland, Vice president First National Bank; F. It. Houghton.

Q. Haven Putnam, James M. Plumb. E. H.

Perkins, John D. Crtmmlns, Bray ton Ives, R. W. GUder, J. W.

God-. WV J. Schieffalln. H. J.

Fairchlld. and Si. Tborneli. Silas B. Dutcher.

Gen. Benjamin F. Tracy, Judge Moore. ex-Judge Dilion, Mayor Gleason. and William De Witt, of the commission which prepared the Greater i lorlt Charter, were present, but de-r ciined at the opening of the hearing to Mate whether they would present any ar- aliments in behalf of their work or -ttefore the arrival of the opposing- dele-ratkio, the members of the Greater New i ork Commission unexpectedly tiled Into the chamber and took seats near the Governors desk, and some surprise was expressed at their appearance.

The contesting delegation arrived at 11:30 o'clock, and when the Governor entered the chamber a look of surprise came over his face when saw that the Executive Chamber, which large room, was completely XUied. Mr. Punoii Opeu the DIscbuIob. After a short conference between the Governor and the leaders of the opposing delegation, the heariag wa opened, at 11:40 o'clock by John E. Parsons.

In bis opening remarks he said that be and his friends did not appear -to find fault with the Greater xsew lork Commissioni or with the Legislature for the action It had taken on the measure, but to point out serious defects in tne charter. He called attention to the fact that it was the opinion of many that the charter had not been considered any too carefully by the Legislature. Very tneagre hearings had been given by the Legislature, and the first real hearing was J'Ot given until tae charter had reached the hands of Mayor Strong. The result of that ilea ring was well known. He said that the main argument in favor of the charter waa that its advantages outweigh Its disadvantages." The disapproval of the Governor would give the necessary delay for "a revision.

There was -absolutely no necessity to rush the charter through. The report of the commission acknowledged the weakness of the charter When It suggested amendments to the Constitution which would be necessary to remove any doubt as to the constitutionality of the charter, if the vote of the people refused to accept these amendments, the Government of the greater city would be thrown into absolute Parsons said that James C. Carter was unable to be present, and he introduced Mr. Pryor. who read a letter from Mr.

Carter in which he declared the charter to be a piece of mischievous legislation. Charles Stewart Smith followed with a vigorous appeal for the Governor to veto the charter in order that the people affected by consolidation might have time to Btudy the charter and offer amendments to perfect it. The people of that city had no opportunity to prebent their views to the commission after the charter had been revised and completed. What is that?" asked Gen. Tracy.

"I say." replied Mr. Smith. that no opportunity was given to the citizens of New York to study the charter after the final draft had been completed." Continuing. Mr. Smith said: We ask you.

Governor, to veto this charter and thereby give the people of New York City the opportunity to study It for a year. Scarcely a person la opposed to consolidation, but they would like to have something Jo aay as to the manner in which they shall be governed." Mr. Smith said that the enactment of the charter meant the political overthrow of the Republican Party. Morris K. Jesup was the next speaker.

He said that individually he was opposed to consolidation, but If-it had to be effected he was of the opinion that the charter proposed would work financial ruin, not only to New York City. but also to every square Inch of territory to be consolidated, and it wouid be many years before the city would regain It financial and commercial supremacy. Horace E. Demlng was next introduced as representing the Bar Association of New York. He said that there was no public pinion in New York City which favors the charter.

He said that when the question of consolidation was put to the people only so per cent, of them voted In favor of It. Qaestioaa by Gen. Traey. Gen. Traey asked several questions at this point as to the detail of the vote, and when Mr.

Deming concluded that part Of his argument, he (Tracy) asked if it was not a fact that the vote Just mentioned was ce largest one ever given on a public question in that territory, even on the adoption af the new f'onKIit iitlnn Mr TVmlnir auM be. could not answer the question. Well. I replied Gen. Tracy, "it ia a fact.

No pne question ever before submitted to the fceopie in that territory received such a ItM-ge vol-." air. Deming contended that an evidence of thel weakness of tho charter was the introduction iu the Lejftilature of twenty or nirfcv bills to amend It a week after It had been jJIvsjhT. PoiutSt one provision of the charter;" Sila Gen. r' which, needs aniewiment to lr.tie It orera All of them may operate," replied Mr. Deming.

but how VIH Lhev oncralaT Look at the provision creating the Municipal Assembly. Ttint tody is not to hava power to regulate hi flying of kites or the piling of snow in any particular place in the city without svval legislative enactment. Is that a goodl provision? L. Delafield iVxt spoke. He said that the many provisions creating the city department were conglomerations of the existing statutes relating to the different localities to be consolidated and were crude and inoperative.

In the case of the creation the Police Department, every one could Imagine the Police Commissioners Were expected to do. But he tietled any one. ven the members of the Greater New York Commission, to tell from reading the police Provision what power Is given to ths Poll ja Commissioner. Edward Mitchell oontinued "las argument opponitivn to the charter. A.

S. Low of Brooklyn speke briefly, arguing that the Governor should veto the charter so that It could be referred to a vote ths people. At the conclusion of bis re-' recss was taken at lS o'clock tiBtil 1 JIM o'clock. After tb Httfdar Rs. Tba arguments In opposition to the char-lr wre continued when the bearing was mud, at li'Jb o'clock, and Joseph La-rocqua vew the first speaker.

Hs declared tbat th charier would rob the Common THE NEW wealth of the preeent City of Naw York of all Its practically speaking, by ntw. clt-v Inasmuch as It would v-Hous count to annosevl. This usur- contended, without tSZf Uw VM unconstltu- oioted at length from many courts in subetantlatloh of Jl contended that ex-Judge wii th "nbers of the Wil.lrw.h chn-t. In one of his collect 1 rumcnt waa wpraaonUnc the Unloa t'ub. was the next speaker.

He fi aaalnat the method of I i. taxation provided for. and flauxes In netall to show that tha Uy of Xw York undue share of the expense of the great city t- he croatxt. He oi-lnlon thAt the only way la uhlcn the taxation In the new city could '2-w 1 wa" by mnK each borough pay for its own Improvements snd expenses, except that a common fund should be created, to be subscribed to equally by each of tha boroughs, for the payment of the salaries th officials of the greater city. Le T' cnuon.

'bo of the Unloa League Club, argued agalnat the charter. He said It was one of tije worst pieces of legislation eer drafted. He did not know of a single person In New York City who favored the charter. George q. Williams of the Chemical National Bank and John P.

Townsend of tha Bowery Savings Bank argued that bank depositors would be hurt by the Increased taxation which would be thrust upon the present City of New York, in that the securities of tha city would be depreciated In value. Alfred E. President of the Real Estate Exchange of New York City, spoke at length against the charter. ivl3o Smith of the Board of Trade and Transportation spoke next. He said that he was opposed to the charter, because nobody wanted It.

To be sure, the people had once voted for consolidation, but when they did so they were of the opinion that they would have an opportunity to pass upon the charter which was to govern them. This right had been denied, and the people, through their representatives here to-day, appealed to the Governor to veto the charter, so that they could have an opportunity to study It. A. A. Levy was the next speaker.

He aid that during the recess he had asked a Judge of the Court of Appeals what would be the result if the charter, as now constituted, was put in operation, and the Judge replied: "Litigation." STERXB ASKS FOR A VETO. Strong Letter from the tw York Attorney Opposing the Charter. The following letter from Simon Sterne of New York was banded to Gov. Igack: New York, April 17, 1897. To Hon.

Frank S. Black. Governor of the State of New Y'ork: Sir: Imperative professional engagements which do not admit of adjournment alone prevent me from Joining in person the representatives of all the organized professional and business interests of New York City to ask you to veto the bill recently passed by the Legislature and known as the Greater New Y'ork charter. It 13 true that a majority of the citizens of New York voted in favor of consolidation, but It is reasonable to suppose that this vote was given on the assumption that the Greater New York charter would be a monumental work, founded upon experience, would have enlisted in its practical accomplishment the ablest men in New York, that abundance of time would be afCorded to them to produce a legislative measure Harmonizing the Incongruous laws which now govern the municipalities which are, to be united, and that a great opportunity would be afforded to guard the public treasury against extravagance and incompetency, and that no too great sacrifice would be imposed upon any portion of the city to be consolidated by the terms of settlement between the associated bodies' politic. It was also hoped that In the organization of the municipal legislative body a recognition of the principles of minority representation would give to each section of our community an opportunity to elect representatives of their own choosing, so as to emancipate the voters of New York from the thraldom of party machinery and allow greater freedom for the Issues of a municipal campaign to be fought out on lines affecting the municipal welfare only and not disturbed by questions of National politics.

It was also hoped that substantially and freely a larger measure of home rule would be afforded to the citizens of New York when their city will comprise almost half Jthe voters of the State. In all these expectations the citizens of New Y'ork have been sorely disappointed, and therefore ask for time for the reconsideration of the terms of the instrument of consolidation and for the prior enactment of the Constitutional amendments which will secure to the municipality the benefits of a united government, unhampered by the continuance of county government, and to give to Its citizens minority or proportional representation, to prevent the absolute domination of some one political organization in Its Government, and thereby enslave the greatest city of the Union for its personal and partisan ends. The citizens of New York also ask for due time for the, amendment of the sections of the bill, so that Its many defects. Iniquities, and provisions of questionable constitutionality may be eliminated, and the great fear of confiscation through excessive taxes, by well guarded provisions, be lifted from the owners of real estate In that part of the consolidated city which has heretoore been known as New Y'ork. Perhaps, never before in the history of the municipality of New York has there been such unanimity of apprehension of evil from State legislation as Is felt and expressed as to the measure which we ask you to disapprove.

It is safe to say that this feeling has already adversely affected real estate values in the City of New York, and the consummation of the mischief by your approval would still more largely and ln- iuriously affect such values. But were it "own that by a large view of your duty this ill-digested and dangerous bill would be vetoed and that time would be afforded for the elaboration of a scheme of consolidation founded in fair dealing and wisdom, a corresponding rise and activity would ensue In real estate values, instead of doubt, depression, and loss. No better test of real benefits or injuries could be had than this gauge of value. If consolidation under any conditions would give to New York City the impetus and advan-tnges which the enthusiastic supporters of the measure before you claim for it the first reflex of its passage would" have been In an advancing market for real estate. The contrary result is its effect I.

therefore, ask you to heed the protects of the Chamber of Commerce, of the liar Association of the City of New Y'ork of tbe Board of Trade, of the Real Estate Exchange, of the City, Reform. andnJnlon League Ciubs, and of the many citizens, vi ho. Independently of organized action, unite rn asking at your hanos a veto of this measure. This veto will not be a reversal of the popular vote In favor of consolidation, but will grant such delay as win enable a union of municipal Interests Jo be formed which will be fruitful of benefits In place of evils and regrets These observations are not Intended as a reflection upon the gentlemen who framed the charter. Many of them are men of eminent ability and probity.

Several ef them I count among my own friends, who doubtless with reluctance, signed a charter which contained the defects of a roany-rteaded Pullce Department and a dual chamber which tends to destroy responsibility, but all of them would candidly admit that the time allotted by the last Legislature for the completion of the stupendous work whieh they were called upon So perform was much too short to enable them to create such a measure as they must have desired to produc. and since its submission to the Legudature, no such thought, deliberation, nor time has been, by the law-making body, given to It to have remedied. In any particular, the defects from which the draft of the bill Buffered. I am, respectfully yours. SIMON STERNE.

Abram S. Hewitt's Rexwoastrauice. Ex-Mayor Abram S. Hewitt was not able to be present but sent the following remonstrance: The gravity of the situation has nerer surpassed In the history of the State of New York, and no Governor baa been compelled to face a greater reHponblbtllty or has had a greater opportunity to render publia service. To tne ths Question appears to be fundamental.

The principle of self-government upon which our political system is founded, la involved In the decision which 'the Governor may make. At no stage of tha movement for ths consolidation of the cities have the people had any voice whatever in deciding the kind of govern iiifciil under which they are to live after the consolidation takes effect. They have passed a Judgment in favor of consolidation, but that Is a very different question from the form of municipal government to be adopted, iu which thus far the people hava bad no voice. The law creating the Charter Commission was passed against the approval of the Mayor New York and tha Mayor of Brooklyn. The Commissioners were named by the Governor, and they did their work In secret, no opportunity being given for the people either to consider U-e propositions of the charter or to pass YORK TIMES TUESDAY.

'APRIL' 20. mm 1 1 Pills and purgatives which act quick iy upon the bowels, irritate and cstroy the mucous linings of th stomach and bowels. A continued use of such remedies inflan les the stomach and bowels. The i se of the genuine imported Carls jad Sprudcl Salt is highly recon iraended because its action is du solely to its solvent and stimi lating properties, without irrita ing the stomach. Best results ire obtained when out-door exert ise can be had.

Obtain the genui ne imported article only. Judmn lertt upon Its merits. It has been out throuith the Legislature nractlcallv without discussld n. and in spite of the condemnation of all ttie commercial, legal, and -social or- ganlzat til ns representing the Intelligent opinion tf the leading citizens of New York and BrUoklyn. iyn.

lr merely ernmen proposed legislation had been adaptation of the existing gov-of the City of New York, or that l.vn to the consolidated cltv. the of Brookly problem of its would have been relieved of most ificultles. but tho proposed charter is not an amendment to any existing system nment. On the contrary, it nro- of govern vides a hew scheme of government, and in eludes 14 ns provisions many features, some of whlc tried at the pas are uninea ana otners have been condemned by the experience of IJI DEKESSE OF THE CHARTER. Gen.

rmoy, ex-Mayor Utlroy, dge Dillon, and Others Make Argimcnti. Gen. Benjamin F. Tracy began an elab orate ddtense of the charter at 3:4 nVlrx k. He said that this was the first time the Greater New York Commission had been called upon to answer the great amount of criticisiJ that has been made against the charier.

ne reviewed in detail tho evenw in con ing ud connection non with the consolidation lead-the appointing of tha aimmlnlun 4re the charter. That commission has hail nothing to do with consolidation, lation was effected bv the tima Ww uonsoll which eJreated the cpmmission, and under that lair consolidation will take effect on Jan 1 isus. ana If this charter is not a chaotic condition of win adopted be in because existence in the Greater New York no sencme or government for the city ha oeen aaoptea. He then reviewed me that personnel mei or the commission, and said majority of the men who com- the th a commission were acknowledged experts labored Ion municipal government, and had unceasingly on their work and were satisfied mat tney bad done their duty, the criticism that has been nuda tr a wi I not Khe charter," he said. "Is the only I that can be made.

vhr. I feel criticisni more he member honored than ever before at being a of the commission that drafted the charter. He Par A tiled the resolutions adopted by the demnlnjJ Delation of New York City con-the charter as an unworthv act to come fdom suoh a prominent association. The i criticisms made In that resolution must have been made without a thorough knowl-the provisions of the charter, and he took each criticism offered, and edge of in detail by exp fhorf.r explaining the real provisions of the (attempted to prove that they were unfounded Tjirano contended that the' argument of Mr. to the effect that the charter an entirely new corporation, and robbed the present City of New therefor xora or rts private property, was ridiculous, the language creatlmr the irreater city sp taken I specifically said that the territory a was annexed to the present tNew York, and that the new citv City or snail York.

bi known as the City of New Tracy said that the criticisms made against ithe charter were unwarranted be-iey cannot be founded UDon fact. In cause i 1o the criticisms on the method of be believed that thev were ahao- taxation iuieiy i tory to In snlri Wlthout weight because, If the terri- pe consoiioatea was to be one city it snouia De one in substance, and of it should pay the same tax. arter. as it stood, was one of the all part i ne best cl charters ever given to any city in the United purpose ibilltv States. It was not drafted for the jof protecting the city from the pos- an exceptionally oaa or corrupt em, put to give tne city one or governments possible, and he was the be ot tne this pu opinion that the charter accomplished qpose.

He thn tended that li the suggestions of er critics giving to the Mayor ab-wer of removal, and providing for chanter solute a sing -headed Police Commission, were lncorpo rated in the charter, an. autocracy would be created and the Mayor would have more son in aiitocratlo power than any other per- he world, except the Czar of Rus- sla. Tracy argument was received with applause. Ahdrew H. Green's Letter.

In thl course of a long letter to Gov. Black Andrew H. Green said: The bill now before you Is not the work of an indiscriminate body of men, but of those by law charged with the responslbll-preparatlon after seven months ot Ity of it protrac tLd discussion and examination. It is the nainstaking labor of men not only qualifier to put in proper lorm tne proposed but of those who, from long ex-ln the actual working of municipal ieglsiat penenca affairs are capable and competent to wisely ascertain tne neeas or tne communities lor which In ttey act. knowle Ige of the wants of the community and th experience required to frame the necessa measures to supply these wants, gentlemen who have framed this Than bill it uld scarcely be possible that a more Judicious selection could be made to accoin-great task set for them.

push th Whl a the Mayor of New Y'ork proposed rt the charter because he believed lole Its merits outweigh its iuse he believes that under it con- to support as a and bee solldatidii can be safely brought he subbequf ntly proposed some few amend- ments, tion of fesoeciallv relating to the constitu te Board of Police, the general Bu- reau of LbUt-ction, ana the Mayor power of removal "An (examination of the amendments at they all aim at one result, and to bring about an increase of the shows tt that is power the Mayor, already increased to verge of safety. This Is very hu- the verl man and Miost officials find it both convenient ble to have their powers and agreeable emolu linen ts increased, but this by no means always tails in with the public interests. It Is not sd rprlsing mat one occupying an offl-lon should fancy that his own pow- ctal posi era sho ia be increased witnout weighing the dlsdd vantage of a diminution of the powers 4t other oniciais acting for the same ir and at the same time. The community spirit or our Government and the desire of our peoj any offi Is not to give despotic powrs to we nave gone zar enough in that dire Should L'llUU. the charter become a law.

th present Mayor would not be in a position to avail hi mseir oi tne anienamenta he pro- poses i' tney, too, were to oe adopted, will be inaugurated bv th The charter Mayor lectea ror ureater New York, rong would not get rid of the rut. Mayor ures to charter. rrhich he bbjects by defeating the Those features exist to-day. and would continue to exist. He Is in the nosi.

tion. thfwefore. of one who seeks to prevent consolid provisio tion and to reject all the beneficial of the charter slmblr becaun cannot Have his own way In respect to ex-iijeelions. lsting Yourl signature only Is now required to consummate iv-tnis Deneucent scheme of con-demanded by the votes of onn solldatioh hundred and seventy-six thousand one bun- dred an seventy or tne electors of the dis- nlallv Manr.rnMl trict especially concerned, Others for tha Charter. Mayo Gllroy read the chanter of ih charter relating to the sinking fund.

nvr which tfciere was soma criticism, and he said tbit ths mars reading of tha section answeretl all arguments against It. He a an read a Iktter from Seth Low. in which Mr. that he was sorry that he nnuM Low tail not be dresent to, in a measure, uphold the work od 11 UVIIMIV0IW)( Ex-Ju in a le ligtby defense of the work of the Lti rt 4 ha iW1 a sarl 1 commissi mission iiad ben loyal to the act creatinr sad follow ixl to a letter the dictate, (act- He argued In datail many ot It. and of that the poir laughed I urvuit.

wus, ary iraojr, mnl at tha idea that a near municipal corporation in Warns tsrJlUfJ VTCIICU. rtnnMiiRlfirt nf Just TMllnn'si A At tni 'rasa. Vfllllam C. De Witt sailed attention nPrs of tha charter In relation to iv.S.lu,HJnM'm, Prtuclples of the City Gov element, and asked what crttlclMn had been thcm- 110 "id the crlt-th? Har Association was the small-P work ever done by any body of PJ3 -The criticisms by that frivolous, he thought. Vfrln was adjourned at 6:30 o'clock.

woul not te tha course a tho matter, but It believed thut he will sign the charter. IIBASOXS FOR A VETO. A Letter Gov. BImIc front tha CHI-a CosBssittea. Tha committee of cltlgens which went to Albany to present their protest against tha Greater New York charter prepared and sent to Gov.

Black, after their return to tha city last night, the following letter: V-wrkf BUck n' SUf ot lrter Greater ti.t eeds upon the theory that down to th m.n?lu?lcrDaJ ministration, or 1 Particular, should be a Uw which can only amended by an appeal to the hutk Henc thi enormous lta uence. also, which complexity, and obscurity! MfiJlfX competent men of undoubted dJSToVSJ capacity hava criticised and deplored. Hence, a so, the wisdom and oDooiSJJi? PoUcr ia aiwmg a reasonable 2nnliLror dicusslon and suggestion and for needed correction. i. to "ia reasonable request Is that under the terms of Chapter 488 of 7" of 11Hr Greater New York comes Lnrt Ct eV8nt on Jan- 18U8, will ensue unless there Sr.al,HO existence under which th fonolIdted te-ritory shall be governed.

JL th law referred to the consolidated territory wlU be Greater Je.T-K0rk'0,l.,'?n'"L It is not true that chao will ensue If this proposed charter is vetoed and fails to become klaw. The Law of 1W expressly provides for this contingency. It provides that the various parts of this territory shall remain under their existing governments until a new government Is framed and enacted Into law to take their placet be no chaos, and no harm to any public Interests will result opportunity is riven for discussion, criticism, and amendment- If IVrf- th P0Pular feeling in favor of the charter be what Us advocates represent, and the merits of the charter be what Ji of the Charter Commission be-i ceTtainly are the last persons to object to such an obviously reasonable course. Their work will In this way, aid ln i wayi have Justified itself, aiid will command the approval of the peo- We beg to remind you that thus far the vir whlch the P'e Ne lorg have had any opportunity to express their feelings toward this proposed been through the Mayor, and be as their representative has vetoed it. Unless the citizens of New York are to uPn them a government against which, through every avenue of expression at present open to them, they most earnestly protest, there Is no reason in itW.

iir '1 Publlc Policy why this charter to th ea that well-founded criticism of its provisions be removed, and the people of this city have an to "Press their opinion upon the form of government under which they are to live. remind you that tho bill under which the question of consolidation to the people and the report wiii "commission which draughted that bin ejrprenaly promised such an opportunity In case the principle of consolidation met with approval Very respectfully yours. JOHN E. PARSONS. JOHN M.

BOWERS. JOSEPH AUERBACH, HORACE E. DEMING, LOUIS L. DELAFIELD, JOSEPH LAROCQUE. E.

ELLERY ANDERSON. New York, April 19, 1807. CALLS IT DESPOTISM. City Vigilance League Ctters Its Pro-test Aajalast the Charter. The City Vigilance League has sent out the following circular, signed by W.

T. Mc-Elveen. Chairman of the State Campaign Committee: The cause of municipal reform and righteousness ln this city Is terribly Imperiled, and we earnestly bespeak a moment's attention to our critical situation. "You are aware that; the Greater. New Tork charter is now in the hands of the Governor of the State, and we are prayerfully and anxiously awaiting his action.

We are persuaded that much good will result If he will veto that measure, and that untod evil will follow his approval of It. Its passage would plunge us Into confusion, and furnish the wire puller and political manipulator only increased opportunity to ply their dirty trade. The members of the Charter Commission confess that this bill Is the product of haste, and that sufficient time was not aiinwoH them to give to it the attention and con-ft siueration a matter or such moment required. The Bar Association and other legal fraternities protest against the passage of this charter, because of its many gross legal defects, errors, and omissions. They declare that It Is full of contradictory statements, and that some very simple matters concerning the immediate duties and prerogatives of municipal officers cannot be settled except ln court.

The measure properly Is not a charter nor a code, but an Indiscriminate enactment of existing laws and conflicting amendments. The various medical societies, the Academy of Medicine, the County Medical Society, the International Homeopathic Society, and others complain that many of the sanitary provisions are unwise, unscientific, unnecessary, and unjust; and the Architectural League and various builders' associations have pointed out the many deficiencies and mistakes In that part of the measure ln which they are particularly interested. The taxpayers associations and Real Estate Exchanges have shown that the measure has many- economic faults. Others have emphasized the- ur.preparedness of certain sections of the proposed territory for consolidation; still others have objected that four sets of county officials In one municipality will result in confusing clashes of authority, numerous Inconveniences, and expensive litigations. The multiplication of offices will mean the division of responsibility and the promotion of Jobbery and corruption.

While we recognize the force of these legal, economic, and political objections, we specially protest against that latest phase of American legislation 'Jamming pushing by cheer force an obnoxious measure through the halls of legislation without its being read and discussed, simply because the dictator of the State cays It must be passed. Are we a free people or the serfs of a boss? Is this a Government of the people, by the people, and for the people, or is it a despotism? We are not opposed to consolidation, but we are opposed to oppression. We desire that American privilege of governing ourselves. We wish we might start an avalanche of opposition to this Iniquitous measure throughout the Empire State. Cannot we count upon you to voice your feeling on this matter ln an earnest request to the Governor of the State not to approve this measure? The political bossism which now is planning to blight New York and Brooklyn will bave no hesitation In placing Its tainting hands on the other cities and towns of this State, if it succeeds In this evil endeavor.

Our request is that you write the Governor immediately your protest against the passage of this measure." AMERICAN GEOCEEY COMPANY. Motion for a Receiver Arsaed la the L'alted States Coart at Trtaloa. TRENTON. April 19. Argument on a motion for the appointment of a receiver for the American Grocery Company of New York was heard by Judge Klrkpatrick, lathe United States Circuit Court, to-day.

The court reserved decision. The American Grocery Company Is a New Jersey corporation which Is capitalized at $3,000,000. It was orgunlxed ln 1SU4. and was a reorganization of the Thurber-Why-land Company, which went Into the hands -of a receiver In 1893. The application Is" made on account of alleged mismanagement by Its President and Directors.

Judge Bheldoa'a Pabllo Bequests. ROCKFORD, 11L. April will of Judge B. R. Sheldon, former member of the State Supreme Court, was probated to-day.

He leaves an estate of over $300,000, and among the bequests are $100,000 to his Alma Mater, Williams College, and $100,000 to tha Hampton tVa.) Institute. Suleida with a. Jaekkalfe. BRIDGEWATER; April 19. Ell Miner, a farmer, aged fifty, committed suicide to-day by severing aa artery ln his leg wttb a Jackknife.

His mother and brother committed suicide a few years ago. PAGES. Be Private Bianco System of supplying; New York 7 Telephone Service tpcciaOr adapted to large BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS, DEPARTMENT STORES, APARTMENT HOUSES, AND HOTELS. No more "Bury" Lines. Illuitrated Pamphlet free on request.

An Agent will call if desired. ITEW YORK TELEPHONE CO. It Certlaadt St. IIS West 31 tk St. MEDIUM PRICES.

Low priced ready made clothing is not always cheap, but often very expensive. While our prices are not high, quality is always good. Spring Oven-oats all colors and $10 to $23. Spring Suits-same price. Our entire second floor is devoted to Merchant Tailoring.

Stock- and facilities unequaled. Cutters and workmen first-class. rTHOMMOH's sons CVa I 245 BROADWAY Parle Place. Importing Tailor and Clothlar. 1 DTO1 "Pient.

Don't try till Mil. II Mil I I 'suit John H. Woodburv. 12T W. 42d N.

T. 26 years' experience in curing all skin diseases. Send 10c for Beauty Book and eamplcof either Woodbury's Facial Bomp or Facial Cnub, REVOLUTIONARY SONS UNITE. A Proposition to Combine Two of the Societies Adopted at a Meet- ing in Philadelphis, PHILADELPHIA. April 19.

The General Society of the Sons of the Revolution met ln special session to-day to consider the proposition of consolidating with the Sons of the American Revolution. The subject waa debated behind closed doors. Thirty-two States were represented, and the vote upon the question, of consolidation stood 16 for and 14 against. Virginia split And the New Hampshire delegate waa not la the room at the time ot voting. 1 A resolution was adopted appointing A.

H. Pugh. Ohio; F. B. Abbott.

Massachusetts; Timothy L. Woodruff, New Tork: Horace K. Tenney, Illinois, and Gail lard Hunt of the District of Columbia a committee with full power to fill any vacancies In behalf of the General Society of the Sons of the Revolution. The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution la-requested to appoint a similar committee, and the two committees will meet and come to an agreement. If possible, respecting a new general constitution and a plan of union between the societies.

It waa further resolved that both societies should bold general assemblies at Cincinnati, Oct. 12, 1897, to take action upon the report of the Joint committee. 1 The officers of the General Society of the Sons of the Revolution who were present to-day were Judge Garrett D. W. Vroom, First Vice President, who presided In place of.

ex-Go v. John Lee Carroll of Maryland, who Is abroad; John Bcreven, Second Vice President; James M. Montgomery, Secretary; W. H. Harris, Assistant Secretary; Richard McCall Cadwallader, Treasurer; Henry Cadle, Assistant Treasurer; the Rev.

Dr. Benjamin Whipple, Chaplain; F. E. Abbott, Registrar; Oalllard Hunt, Historian, VOTE ON ARBITRATION MAY 5. So Ordered by the SenateOpponents of Treaty Expect to Have Their Full Vote Beady That Day.

WASHINGTON, April 19. The Senate today in executive session decided that the vote on the arbitration treaty should be taken May at 4 o'clock In the afternoon. There was little opposition to fixing the time for the vote, although Senator Davis urged an earlier date than the one fixed on. Mr. Davis's first suggestion was that the vote be taken the 3d of May.

When: objection was made he proposed May 4, aid then May fi. There was no opposition to the last-named date. It is understood the opponents of the treaty expect to have all their strength in the Senate by May KENTUCKY SENATORIAL CAUCUS. It Is Expected the Republicans Will Drop Dr. Hnnter.

FRANKFORT. April 13. There was but little interest in the joint session of the General Assembly at noon to-day. According to agreement entered into by the steering committees of the parties, but one ballot was cast for each candidate, after which perfunctory duty the joint session adjourned. It looks as If there will be an election at the extra session after all.

as a number of the Republican leaders have taken up the plan to hold another caucus and select a nominee other than Dr. Hunter. A prominent Republican said this morning: "A Senator be elected at this cession, and he will be either Martin or a Republican whose nomination Hunter will, of course, dictate." It is said that Senator Jones, Chairman of the Republican caucus, will call a new caucus for either to-morrow night or Wednesday morning. When asked If he would withdraw. Dr.

Hunter replied evasively, and those Republicans who bave bad lightning rods up are doing some tall hustling. YOUNG WENTWOETH CONFESSES. He Tells Hott He Tried to Poison His Father and Stepnaotuer. EXETER, N. April 19.

Frank Went-worth. the sixteen-year-old boy who was arrested Saturday and lodged ln Exeter jail on the charge of having attempted to poison bis father and stepmother, Mr. and Mrs. George H. Wentwortb, of Newton.

N. has made a confession, stating that be put parte green In the tea while getting breakfast. He gives as his excuse for the act that he despised bis stepmother on account of her continually "giving htm fits." but says that he had no ill feeling toward hla father. Young Wentwortb says that while at work Friday, April 9, be found a quantity of parts green, which he took home with him. The next morning he arose at 5:30 o'clock and prepared the breakfast.

He placed a quantity of the poison ln the teapot, and, claiming that he was feeling quite ill, went to bed and refused to eat any breakfast. Later ln the day he left home and went to stay with friends at West Newbury, where he was arrested. Wentworth'B father went to Haverhill, as usual, en Saturday morning. April 10. but during the day became very ill.

although be remained a work. When he returned to his home at night be found that his wife had been sick all day. An Investigation was started, with tbe result that the poison war. found tn the teapot. A warrant was at once issued, for young Wentworth'B arrest.

He was promptly indicted by tbe Grand Jury on a charge of attempting poisoning. It Is expected that the case will come up next week at the session of the Superior Court. Married ea Iter Deathbed. CLEVELAND, Ohio, April 18. Mrs.

John Pacey-Hobbs. who waa married upon her deathbed to Ca.pt John T. Hobbe, on Thursday, died this morning. She was sixty-two years old. FRENZI1H THE WHEAT PIT War Europe Caused Wild Fluctuations: in May and July Futures on the Produce Exchange.

RAPID ADVANCE AT THE START. After Going Up Store Than Six Points on Early a Reaction Cam Some Speculators Are Pre- dieting 'Dollar Wheat" and 'Better. The uctuatlons Uv contract wheat, tbe May and July futures, made the professional market at the Produce Exchange, without European quotations to guide, very llrelx for the first wo hours of speculation yesterday. That? Joe i McMaboo, who receives the Chicago quotations, blackboards them, and attends to tbe dials, was for a time tbe busiest man In New York, is aa assertion It Would not be easy to. dispute.

The gong clanged at 1030 A. VL to a yell from the wheat pit, or rather from the operators in the pit. which was crowded, and a fringe around tt three and four deep. All the traders were excited, and the Initial transactions were ln a turmoil consequent to tbe effort of each man to outvoice bis neighbor in bidding or offering. While the purely speculative market bad been largely discounted in the last week of five trading days by war rumors, the May future advanced ln that time cents a bushel, the declaration by Turkey of war against Greece put etterr trader oa his mettle, and the opening quotations for May wheat were from 6 to 6 points over Saturday's closing quotation.

responding to the Chicago opening, 77 to 77. SS. Quarter of an hour the operator of the New York quotation dial for May wheat registered the price as best be might with' a different price shouted ln half a dosen places ln the pit In the same moment, and the quotation, mounting to at a jump. In a babel of excitement, the price of the future touched 83v4. a gain of 6 over Saturday a closing price, in half an hour.

Then came the turn of the profit takers, and brisk selling by scalpers brought about a decline. Foreign buying orders had been exhausted, ana selling orders came apace with the result cf lowering the quotation In morning session to the lowest point of the day, 60. a clear gam, however, of 3 over Saturday's close. The trading after this simmered down to ordinary scope for an hour, when a rush of Chicago quotations on a rising scale stimulated tbe Exchange prices, and the ruling future went up In Jumps until it waa recorded at 82. Trading languished except for fits and starts until the closing of the market, when the quotation for May wheat was 0174.

At the close of the market the situation was discussed with animation, and predictions as to the top-notch price of tbe present week were many and In some casea extravagant. Dollar wheat waa one of the wildest forecasts. Not a few recalled the us so-Turkish war of 1877 and the Jump in wheat from 11.23 to 1.76 a bushel, and the Franco-Prussian advance from around 72o to 9L30. Less bullish sentiment was that the market would not go much higher unless other powers besides Greece and Turkey Joined in the conflict. This opinion was fortified by the complacent condition of international money markets.

With Turkey and Greece alone In the field. 11 was argued, no great demand for American cereals and provisions could be created. JJy contract wheat waa in sympathy with May. Closing on Saturday at 70. it opened at RJtt.

the same price as May, jegtto 83. sold down to 8o, and cloaed Corn and cats were a shade-Influenced. Corn. May future, closed on Saturday at 2f4. opened at 30.

sold to 30. and down to 29T4. and closed at 80. July corn's range was: Opening. 33; high.

32; low. 81; close, 1 of opening market the turmoil in the wheat pit Interested hun-7w 5f.vllt2.rs who ere ln tbe gallery of the Produce CHICAGO'S MARKET WA WIU." There Was aa Advaace ef Four Ceats, hat It Was Not Mala talaea. CHICAGO. April 19-After a very exciting opening to-day at an exceptionally great advance ln Us price, wheat simmered down to about its usual subdued nervousness. Tbe final outcome was that May closed worth 75 cents and July 7475 as compared with 73 cents and 73 centsrespectively, Saturday afternoon.

The other markets bad somewhat similar experiences. Except ln the case of provisions, no advance was established for the day. The outbreak of hostilities between Turkey and Greece overshadowed all else In its influence on the markets. As was expected, at the opening the news that war had actually begun produced consternation among tbe shorts, and tbe utter disregard of caution displayed by a majority of them was clearly Indicated by tbe prices Cey paid at their first onrush. May wheat, which Saturday closed at TSi cents, started this morning in one mighty bound Shi to 4V cents higher.

So great was the excitement that men standing side by side in the pit were doing business at a difference of from half a cent to a cent per bushel. After the first wild scramble vbe excitement began to subside. The market heaved and sank, and heaved again great irregular billows for an hour before its motion got calmed Realizing during this time was enormous. Line after line of long wheat was thrown on the market and acted like oil on stormy waters. Indeed, this fact probably prevented what many whes? toU3r' namely, eighty-cent Cudahy.

Linn, and Barrett were the most conspicuous sellers during the first hour, the two former supposed to be taking profits on long stuff, while the Utter sold for the short account. Cudahy and Linn were credited with clearing something like each as a result of the dav'a transactions. John W. Gates of the Illinois Steel Company and W. T.

Baker also won fceav THE FEDERATION OF LABOR. The Execotlve Council Calls ea Presl-- deat McKInley. WASHINGTON. April 19. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor Is holding a meeting In this city.

By previous arrangement, the Executive Council called upon President McKInley to-day at the House, where a conference was held lasting an hour. Various propositions of interest to labor and legislation in the Interest of the wage earners were discussed. A petition was" presented asking for the pardon of W. Clark, who is confined in Thomaston PriBon, Maine, under charge of mutiny. The Executive Council, while urging the appointment of no particular person for any office, urged upon the President the Inad-vlsabillty of appointing persons to important offices to administer laws in the Interest of labor who were not ln sympathy with labor organisations.

nana: Stockholders Assessed. NASHUA, N. 1L. April of 431 shares stock of the failed Sioux City National Bank of Sloug City. Iowa, today received notice from H.

Farns-worth. the attorney for the receiver, that suit would be instituted against them In the United States courts Jo compel them to show cause why they should not pay an assessment of $73 per share, which has been levied for the purpose of paying the Indebtedness of the bank, the affairs of which are now going through the winding-up process. Tbe local stockholders have engaged counsel and will fight the assessment. Aaaapolls's Trial Tharsday. WASHINGTON, April Secretary of-the Navy haa issued the formal ordera for the trial of tbe gunboat Annapolis, bullt-by Lewis Nixon at Elizabeth port.

N. J. Tbe trial will take place next Thursdsy over the Long Island course under tbe inspection ot the regular trial board. i Appointed, Naval Cadets. WASHINGTON.

April VH-The President has appointed Oeorge A. Deerlng of tbe District of Columbia and T. V. McNalr, son of Admiral McNalr, alternate cadets at Urge at the Naval Academy, Mrs." Tipton' Tea RooHm 54 West JCth Street. jfftUIKT CORNER TUB HZAKT Or TIT HClPJIXO DISTRICT.

WHEUE LADI." 11 7 REST AMD REFRESH THEMSELVES PATRONIZED Br TH9 BEST PEOPLK. Opposite 5leeI-Cooper M0 EREAKFAST TABLE COV.PLET" without my 43 KIrnd ot Coffee. Vt las plow the ladies as well as my L.rnJi Always uniform In quality and f.aoc ierj for price list of choice Family Groceries. J. CALLANAM.

Successor to calujas tizr, 41 and 43 Vesey SL church TmcER'cdsiiT The Easter Elections ia Protestant Episcopal Congregations in and About New York. Easter elections In the Protestant Episcopal churches held yesterday In this city and. at neighboring points resulted In the following selections of officers: Xtw Yark CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION. Fifth Avenue and Tenth Btreet. Wardens DanUl F.

Appleton and William K. Lothrop; Vestrymen Oeorge Blagden. Robert S. Holt, Edward N. Taller, John B.

Ireland. Henry E. Howland, August Belmont, Howard li. Henry, and Joseph 8. Auerbaeh.

ALL SOULS' CHURCH. Madison Avenue and Slxty-sUth StreeL Wardens Frederick D. Tappen and Edward M. Brown; Vestrymen H. A.

Rogers. Gustav H. Schwab. A. Tilt, Dr.

Robert Abbe, E. 11. Landun, Frank Fuller. A. Hepburn, and C.

Convent. ST. MATTHEW'S CHURCH. 'Vest Eighty-fourth Street. Wardens James H.

Falconer and M. W. Lanandon; Veatry men-Timothy Hogan, Edward Berry, Augustus Kelly, Ira Bliss Stewart. John S. Sutphen.

Edward Barnes, Eugene M. Hanson, ana fi. H. Taylor. ALL ANGELS' CHURCH.

EIrhty-flrst Street and West End Avenue. Wardens-Charles Hoffman, and David M. Holmes; Vestrymen J. Van Vechten Olcott. E.

Rene! Smith, WUUam M. Flannaran. L. LaUln Kellogg. George C.

Clarke. William M. Perrine, Capt. A. T.

Mahan. and Cassias M. Wicker. ST. IGNATIUS'S CHURCH.

Weat Fortieth Street. Wardens Charles F. Zabris-kie and John W. Emerson Vestrymen-Nelson Millerd, Richard W. Within gton.

El-ward Marcus, Col. N. 8. Brinton. Robert A.

McKJm. Charles T. Chambers. WUUam b. Young, and George L.

Hawkins. CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY, Lex. lngton Avenue: Wardens Charles if. Russell and Robert Betty; Vestrymen Edmun I Dwight. Edward G.

black, Edward F. Beddall. WUUam Law, Randolph Hurry, Syam Anderson. Percy R. pjne, and Frederic K.

Trowbridge. CHURCH OF THE HOLT NATTVITT. One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Street an.l Seventh Avenue: Wardens William K. Hawa and Frank Rldgway; Vestrymen Samuel Everltt, Brother Gilbert O. B.

Charles A. Garthewalte, Alphonse E. Phaneuf, Noyes Streeter, Henry W. Plant. William K.

Lounsbery, and Duane Baker. ALL fSAINTS CHURCH. Henry and Bcammel Wardens Thomas Greg-ojTrand Hugh Nesbltt: Vestrymen-Jam's fo. Morgan, illlam H. Fennell, John T.

George SUck. Charles Richmond. Charfe? nd ST. PAULS CHURCH. Third Avenue and One Hundred and Seventieth Street: 8rIe? WUliam R.

Hil- Vestrymen James a Brlnckerholt. W. Boyden. F. E.

Kw-ard. O. McB. Smith, G. H.

Budlong, N. Cotter, and H. F. Taylor. pFiFSFJ? DISCI-.

wTn.Si 3fht3rninta Street: Wardens-xXiii and RoUln M. Morgan: Chrisman, United States Navy; George Coleman Robert N. Dlsbrow, M. DT; El-ward R. Satterlee.

and George R. Trimble. 'xPSSP OP Z1N AND TIMOTHT, Jewell Smith and Frederick -W. De Voe-Vestrymen-M. Taylor Pyne.

A. HowaTj olSrt Mflbank, Mortlm Fargo WillUra a Hawk. Charles H. Lan. Dr.

Clement Cleveland, and Robert L. Harrison. i-: I raURCH OF THE HOLY FAITH. One Hundred and Sixty-sixth StreetT east It K. Clark and Wiiiv.F- Ickwood; Vestrymen William 8J'i'UKvBrsJ CHURCH.

Convent Avenue and One Hundred and Forty-first Street. Wardens Alexander Lv- McDonald and Jonathan. Sprague Bard; Vestrymen-Charles Broudbent, Henry B. Bates. John H.

Morrison, William F. Weeks. James E. Boyd, Wilbur F. Rockwell, FertlW nand P.

Earle, and WllUam H. Shaw. Brooltlyau lST. MARTIN'S CHURCti. Carroll Park.

Wardens Philip Wamsley and Dr. S. E. f.tJu?"i,ytrymen-a..R. W.

Dannatt. R. a. Walbridge, A. Ogden Hunttlng, H.

Randolph ElUot, W. A. Metcalf. and T. li.

Croftul CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANT. McDon-ough Street and Tompkins Avenue. Wardens Orrtn D. Person and J. W.

Watklns: estrymen Charles E. Hotchklss, George 8. Adrian, Richard C. Addy. Isaac 8ulgr.

G. K. Whltbeck, William E. Fort. Thomas Parramore, and Neville McEvoy.

LUKE'S CHURCH, Clinton Avenue. Brooklyn: Warden William H. Fleeman and John D. Bluxome; Vestrymen Joseph B. Plgot.

James W. White, Charles A. Hr iler, W1UU H. Brumley, Lambert V. B.

Cameron, William Ptukney Hamilton. Cornelius Eldert, and Frank H. Sellman. ST. BARNABAS'S CHURCH.

Busbwlcs Avenue, Brooklyn: Wardens George W. Hartt and George B. Goodwin; Vestrymen, Charles Bennett John Morgan. Frederick Alfred. Joseph H.

Courtenay, William C. Wllmer, Jacob H. Fredericks, Algernon W. Millard, and William H. French.

Ia Other Places. ST. JAMES'S CHURCH. Hyde-Park-on Hudson: Wardens James Roosevelt and Archibald Rogers; Vestrymen J. K.

Roose- velt, J. A. Roosevelt, John Hopkins. S. B.

Sexton, II. 8. Hoyt. 8. N.

Kane, IL P. Rog. ers, and E. T. Gerry.

ST. JOHN'S CHURCH. Larchmont: War-dens G. Lowrey and C. Hunting; Vestrymen William Murray Charles Singer, Gerald Brretto, Geraia Hay ward, George Ide, and C.

Little. CHRIST CHURCH. West Isllp. L. I.j Wardens Alfred Wagstaff and James W.

Eaton; Vesirj'men Dubois Wag-staff, James K. Cooper. H. I. Nicholas, George li.

Magoun, and Frank Eastty. ST. PETER'S CHURCH. Port Chester. WtstchesterCounty: Wardens John F.

Mills and Nicholas F. Palmer: Vestrymen Will--torn P. A be nd roth, Edward Brown Robert B. M. Cook, James Leviness, George W.

Studwell. Abram V. Whltcman. Wia-lam L. Ward, and John White.

ST. JOHN'S CHURCH. Huntington, I.t Wardens Edwin B. Duseuborry and Edwlri J. Van Schalck: Veatrymen George F.

Borr, Joseph Irwin, Dr. R. H. Derby. W.

Wilton Wood. H. PUtt, Thomas Young. Thomas Mason, and Charles Street. COMPENSATION FOR EDITH.

SEHR The Coart Errors and Appeals Cea-Iras the Jadgaaeat ta Her Behalf. TRENTON. N. April 19. The Court of Errors and Appeala to-day affirmed the decision of the Essex Circuit Court giving Judgment In favor of Edith Behr against the Consolidated Traction Company of Newark.

v- Miss Behr is the girl recently sentenced In Elizabeth to three months for perjury while on trial for assault and battery. In September, while accompanying li-r father to market, their wagon was struck by a trolley car and she was thrown out and slightly Injured. She recovered a verdict against tbe company and the case was appealed. Te save Aetor Gentry's Life. HARRISBURO.

April 10." The Board of Pardons heard argument this afternoon on application for a commutatloa ot sentence to life Imprisonment ln the case Of James B. Gentry, who killed Ma Torke, the actress, two years ago in I delphla. Action was postponed until morrow saomMg,.