Note and Comment

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Jul 7, 1904

A GREAT cry for “reform” has been raised by the “Slocum” disaster on the East River, but probably few people have any idea how far reform must be carried in order to guard effectively against the possibility of future catastrophes due to criminal negligence. From some statements that are made bearing on the causes leading up to the “Slocum” horror, it appears that it may even be necessary to reform Congress. The Washington Times, for example, says:—

It is stated on high authority that a bill providing for the remodeling of steamship lines on plans which would make the traffic safe, was defeated, in Congress by the merchant marine interests. The representatives of these interests argued that it would be cheaper to run the risk of accident than to make the sweeping changes recommended.