This was one of the most flagrant of the frauds which I was instructed to prevent. and after many months of study and research. investigation. and inquiry we were able to secure the rejection by collectors of customs of those whose certificates were fraudulent. This has been done by strict investigation of the applicants and such inquiry as is possible on this side of the water. But in a majority of cases the poor deluded coolies. who have frequently mortgaged their possessions as well as their future earnings for the costs of the certificate and travel. admit that the statements contained in their certificates are untrue. that they have never been anything but laborers. and that they are not entitled to the status claimed. The representatives of the steamship and railroad companies engaged in carrying the Chinese frankly declare that they are "selling transportation." and that itis not their duty to inquire whether or not their passengers may land upon arrival. Their agents work up the Chinese passenger traffic in China as a matter of business. Prominent Chinese firms. recognized as mercantile establishments in the United States. are heavily engaged in the business of supplying these certificates and bringing the coolies here upon these fraudulent papers. And further: These Chinese coolies. masqueradingas merchants. students. etal.. are very carefully coached. eig furnished with verbal printed. or written instruc tions. copies of vhich I shall be pleased to lay before you. if desired. Vast profits have been made by the alleged Chinese merehants located in this country in tie promotion of this illicit traffic. and the socalled Chinese marchants. students. etc.. imported in this manner are nid to be held in virtual bondage for some years. until they have. by their earnings. repaid the sums agreed upon. with interest and extra charges.