The railroads, as the country well knows, are a powerful force, but the various brotherhoods of railroad workers are also component parts of a powerful organization. Some 300,000 workers, many of whom are highly skilled men, are represented by the officers of the latter who are parleying with the railroad interests.

According to latest reports, there is strong probability that the employees will call for a vote on a general strike. In view of the attitude of their leaders, it is to be feared there can be only one outcome. It is possible, though not highly probable, that the proposed investigation by the Interstate Commerce Commission will result in a settlement between the conferees. Meanwhile, the public is confronted with the possibility of shortage in many lines, due to lack of transportation, which will be more stringent even than that which has already resulted from the war.

In his attack on the administration, Justice Hughes shows signs of having anything but a judicial temperament. And yet the Republicans objected to Brundes.

New Troubles in Mexico
NEW disorders in Mexico, attacks by bandits on a ranch this side the border and rumors of a widely organized movement to place Felix Diaz in the presidency of the distracted republic, add to the already sufficient reasons why American troops should not be withdrawn at this juncture. 