Remarks, Hon. J. B. White
Chairman White—It is long past the time for our meeting, but we have not had the last word from Governor Hadley. He wired me night before last of an accident, and that his physician said it would not do for him to come yesterday. Last night we had another telegram, saying he was afraid he could not come, and that we had better not depend on him. I also received a letter. Then I wired him again, but have no reply, so it is barely possible that he will be here in time to speak to us this afternoon. The committee has gone down to meet the 2:50 train. In his letter, he says:
“I want to thank you again for your kindness in giving me such a prominent place upon your program, and were it not for the fact that I know your meeting will be a complete success with Governor Wilson alone, it would be an added regret—my inability to be present.”
I know many of you came expecting to hear Governor Hadley, and he certainly will give us a splendid address if he comes. He appointed a commission in the State of Missouri, of which I have the honor of being a member, and we have had meetings at the Governor’s mansion, and we are trying to induce the Legislature of Missouri to pass a good law in favor of Conservation of all natural resources. I cannot report as to our progress as I would like, so I will not say anything about what we have done. We know what we are trying to do.
The newly elected President is not here, and he insists that I take his place until he comes. We will now listen to “The Story of the Soil,” from one who has given it great thought and attention. He has brought about good results that will be of benefit to the farmer and to every one who lives in the country, and therefore of benefit to all the citizens of our common country. I have pleasure in presenting Mr. H. H. Gross, President of the National Soil Fertility League, who will speak on “The Story of the Soil.” (Applause.)