I hope I do not underestimate the weight of the arguments on the other side. I was greatly impressed with the eloquent appeal of the gentleman from New York and the fervent words of the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. MANN . and I have listened with interest and profit to the arguments of many other gentlemen on that side of the question. but I remain unconvinced. for I still believe that. everything considered. the literacy test is the wisest and most effective method of dealing with the serious situation that confronts us. Many gentlemen opposed to this bill have contended that there is no demand for such legislation. but none of them have undertaken to explain why. if that be true. that there is such an overwhelming nmajority of this great body. fresh from the people. in favor of it. My observation has uniformly been that when such a situation exists It is responsive to the demands of the people who sent them here. That this literacy test will work hardships in individual cases. and will sometimes exclude those who would make desirable citizens. must be admitted. but we must also remember that oftentimes in the administration of the affairs of government such considerations must give way to the higher one of national expediency. Of course. I had rather admit an illiterate patriot than ain educated anarchist or disturber. and I wish it were practicable to segregate them on that basis. but it is not. .
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literacy test