I had also again attempted to discuss this important matter in my annual report.
I myself reached Washington at about the time this document arrived there, but that part of it dealing with slavery and peonage was cut out without either consulting me or giving me a hearing. I was advised by General McIntyre that the secretary had disapproved it.
In writing to me under date of January 11, 1913, Mr. Dickinson said:—
“I have read with much interest the copy of your communication of October 28, 1912, with the Acting Governor-General in regard to the law prohibiting slavery. The whole matter interests me very much and is very enlightening to me.
“I note what you say in regard to the matter coming up during my administration and the memorandum made by General Edwards. My memory may be badly at fault, but I really cannot recall that this matter ever came to my personal attention. I may have forgotten it among the many hundreds of things that came before me, but I certainly have no recollection in regard to it.”
I am quite prepared to believe that the matter was never allowed to come to his personal attention!
On January 31, 1911, I again introduced this bill in the commission. It was amended in minor details and passed on that date and was duly forwarded to the assembly. There it was introduced on February 2 and on February 3 was laid on the table. I here give the full record. It is significant as showing the lack of interest displayed by the assembly in this important subject.
“An Act prohibiting Slavery
“The Speaker. Commission Bill No. 88 is submitted to the House for consideration. Read the bill.
“The Secretary. [reading]....