Speech #520113718

I believe that this quarantine question should go into the hands of the Federal authorities and be lodged there. and nowhere else. Especially do I believe this with respect to the great port of New York. More than 90 per cent of all. the immigration to this country comes through that port. It is impossible for the State authorities. with any appliances they now have or any that they are likely to get. to afford the necessary facilities to protect the country against the invasion of disease which is likely to happen. The London Times the other day. in a long article giving statements made by sanitarians of Europe. conveys the idea that there is a widespread opinion among the sanitarians of Europe today that the seeds of cholera have been sown all over those states. All the great seaport towns during the past summer have been victims of the cholera. The great steamship lines running from European ports come directly to the port of New York. and many of them have had cholera on board their ships. It will be imossible to keep it out even if you suspend immigration. although think that would be a very great aid. But. sir. what we require is to place this whole question where it rightfully belongs. in the hands of the Federal Government.