Sir. I regret that the bill does not go further than it does. but I trust that the information acquired under its provisions will lead to legislation that will prohibit the introduction into this country of indigent labor under the contract system. I am in favor of opening our ports for the introduction of emigrants who seek our land as a home. In common with our native and foreign born citizens I extend a hearty welcome to all such. But. sir. it is well known that capitalists in their individual partnership or corporate capacity have been and are now engaged actively in various directions in contracting for labor. in the gross. from among the most indigent and degraded fbreign multitudes of Europe and Asia. at minimum rates of wages. which must come in competition with our home labor and reduce in price or supplant it entirely. What has already taken place in the recent past is amply sufficient to fill our minds with apprehension as to our future condition and demand at our hands timely selfprotection.
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emigrants foreign born