June 20, 1911

Mr. RUCKER of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, just a minute.

The SPEAKER. The Chair will recognize the gentleman from Missouri [Mr. RucKER].

Mr. RUCKER of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, it was my purpose, after a conference with gentlemen on the other side a few days ago, to wait until the passage of the bill just voted upon and then move to take from the Speaker's table, or ask the Speaker to lay before the House, the resolution relating to the election of Senators by popular vote. I understood that by agreement on both sides this course would be pursued immediately following the passage of the bill which has just been voted on. Relying upon that, and believing that that was the understanding, I told numerous gentlemen so. Now, in order to be fair with myself and to gentlemen on the other side, I want to say we expected to go at it at a time when we had daylight in which to transact the business. There seems to be a desire for debate. The indications are that as much as an hour and a half on a side may be wanted. That much debate now would prolong the session until a late hour, and I find that a large majority of the membership of the House protest against such a prolonged session. I have made this statement in order to put myself right with gentlemen whom I have promised I would ask for immediate action on the bill. A few minutes ago, in conference with gentlemen representing the other side of the Chamber, we agreed that, with the approval of the House, the matter be passed until to-morrow, and then be taken up immediately after the reading of the Journal, and then proceed to consider it and conclude it. The impression now prevails that we will get through in time for all gentlemen who desire to do so to leave the Capitol building by '5 o'clock, or probably a little earlier; but until then I earnestly hope that all gentlemen interested in this question, especially all Democrats, as well as those on the other side of the aisle, will remain here to-morrow and determine the 1 course we will take with reference to the amendment which came to us from the Senate.

Now, I thank the House, Mr. Speaker. for its courtesy. [Ap-