Prohibition is already succeeding to a re
markable extent in Oklahoma, despite the
handicap of interstate commerce violations
and the bands of outlaws which still infest
parts of Indian Territory, now that the
strong arm of the federal government has
been withdrawn. In Oklahoma City, the
metropolis of the State, prohibition is work
ing splendidly.
TO BE INCREASED.
Freight rates will be increased all along the
line as a result of a meeting of railroad presi
dents of all the Eastern trunk lines held yes
terday afternoon at the offices of the Trunk
Line Association, No. 143 Liberty street.
George F. Baer, president of the Reading
Railroad Company, presided. The conference
lasted several hours, and every phase of the
freight problem was discussed. It was not
decided when the increased rates shall go into
effect. The following statement was given
out:
“The present business situation, as it par
ticularly affects railroads, was discussed.
There was a strong feeling that, while the
rigid economies which have been introduced
should be continued and the expense of oper
ation should be curtailed, so far as it is con
sistent with safety and proper maintenance,
still the roads must increase their revenues
if there is to be a sufficient margin of profit
to make possible the obtaining of moneys
needed for extensions and improvements to
the service.
“The traffic officials of the different rail
roads have been for some time engaged in
making a study of freight rates, and are in
favor of an increase varying with the different
classes and commodities. It is generally be
lieved by those attending the meeting that
present conditions required that an increase
be made, and the meeting adjourned for each
road to give further consideration.”.
