Page:Engines and men- the history of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen. A survey of organisation of railways and railway locomotive men (IA enginesmenhistor00rayniala).pdf/69

 first six months; and, for remainder of illness, 6s, per week. Twelve shillings per week whilst seeking employment, for 12 weeks: and 6s, per week for the ensuing 14 weeks. Twenty pounds to be paid at the death of a member, and £5 at the death of a member's wife. Should it be deemed necessary, at any time, for any portion of the members to be withdrawn from their employment, such members to receive twelve shillings per week whilst out, and two shillings per week for each child under ten years of age. Any member being discharged for having taken an active part in any question relating to hours or wages, or the well-being of his fellow-workmen, to receive a lump sum of £100, and fifteen shillings per week whilst seeking re-employment. By doing this we hope to disarm that tyranny from which many have suffered, and deter many from taking that position which they should take when differences arise. We have no desire to interfere with that discipline which is as necessary to the safety of the public on railways as it is to ourselves, but merely to protect the men whom we send forward as our representatives. On the Great Western Railway alone 1,938 men signed the petition to the directors. Assuming that one=half tare enginemen, 969 at 5s, each—£242 5s,, and 969 firemen, at 2s, each—£96 18s.; making a total of £339 3s, for entrance fees alone. To this add a year's subscription of 1s, per week, which will make a sum of £5,337 19s, before the Society would be called on to pay any money out. Your Society should not cost more than £200 the first year for an active, energetic secretary. The money raised by the various Lodges to be kept in their own hands until the Delegates from the various lines decided where or how it should be invested. The Secretary to receive £150 per annum, and the remaining £50 would pay travelling expenses, etc. His duty would be to organise the Society, audit the various branch books, and report to a central committee, who would have sole control over the movements of the Organising Secretary.

Your obedient servants,

THE COMMITTEE.