Speech #530024132

Hence I denounce the provisions of this unjust law. known as the Geary law. which outrages every principle of Christianity and humanity. The Territory of Utah has the requisite population. and is knocking at the doors of Congress to be admitted as a State of the Union. I cite this as an argument in favor of restricted immigration. because I am in favor of the restriction of foreign Mormon immigration. and every member knows that in that Territory the people are almost entirely foreigners. who have not the slightest knowledge of American laws or American institutions. to say nothing of American morals. The pending bill should be passed in the interest of justice and humanity. The Chinese had every reason to believe that the decision of the Supreme Court would be in their favor. and they were advised by the Six Companies not to register. If we fail to pass this bill to extend the time of registration. then if the law is to be enforced. 85.000 Chinamen must be immediately deported at the point of the bayonet. and the taxpayers of this country must pay the expense. which the chairman of the committee said would amount to $7.000.000. which I submit. in the present condition of the country. we are not prepared to pay. My learned and scholarly colleague. the member from the Seventh district . who is to speak later. will. I am sure. voice the sentiments of our State in advocating the passage of this bill. and I am sure there is no difference of opinion on party lines in the State which I have the honor to represent in regard to the infamy of the bill known as the Geary act.