Freight Rate Discussed by Mr. Prouty

Mr. Charles A. Prouty of the Interstate Commerce Commission gave a most enlightening lecture in Emerson A last evening on "The Freight Rate."

Mr. Prouty explained how great and far reaching an effect the freight rate had upon the development of natural resources, the increase or restraint of trade and industry, and even upon the lines along which modern civilization shall advance. This may be shown by a concrete example. The rate from Chicago to New York is less than from intermediate points to either terminus. The result is that producers are forced to do business at railroad centres. A decision of the Commission to change this condition would alone do much in the interest of humanity by withdrawing the impediment to rural industrial expansion.

Mr. Prouty insisted upon the fact that the railroad question is still to be settled. As it is to be settled by public opinion, that opinion must be intelligent in order to judge impartially.