Note 12 — Chapter IX · SERVICES TO THE CAUSE OF THE PROTECTION OF HOME INDUSTRY.
Reading edition
The following letter is written by a gentleman thoroughly familiar with the history of tariff legislation at Washington for many years:
WASHINGTON, D. C., Jan. 5, 1880.
Some eight years ago, when a serious reduction in the copper tariff was proposed, I know that Mr. Chandler rendered valuable aid in bringing the facts before the Senate in his clear, terse way—going straight to the mark. Then, as always in practical matters, his prompt manner, his business knowledge, and his immense power of will made him the man to be called on, and he ever responded to the call, and had a power wonderful indeed to "push things." When the act to reduce internal revenue taxes—which had passed the House almost unanimously, and had been perfected by the mutual labors of Congressional committees and representative business men—was before the Senate for final action in March, 1868, an effort was made by Senator Fessenden, of Maine, to add to it as a "rider" a clause affecting the copper tariff, which would surely have delayed if not defeated the measure. Senator Chandler spoke ten minutes, putting concentrated power in his words, and showing the great importance of passing the act and the needless mischief that must come of saddling it with another question. He succeeded in defeating the Fessenden amendment, the act passed without it, and it reduced the annual burden of internal revenue taxation some $60,000,000 (all this internal).
The Senator's views on tariff legislation were broad and comprehensive, recognizing the interdependence of all branches of industry and the importance of such action as should bear with equal justice on all: knowing no East, nor West, nor South—no petty and narrow jealousy between farmer and merchant and manufacturer—but seeking the wise care and healthy growth o£ a varied home industry all over the land.
On these subjects he showed practical sagacity and the same moral courage and bold vigor that marked his great efforts for freedom and justice to all in the last and grandest year, which so nobly closed a public career which will live and grow in the minds of future generations. Very truly yours,
GILES B. STEBBINS.