University Missourian

LONG ARM OF THE GRAFTER.
When a Franchise Grab Comes Up "Influence" Reaches Far.

A telephone franchise without compensation was granted to a new company in Philadelphia, and the notorious "trolley franchise grab" took place. It was Ashbridge who threw an offer of $1 million dollars cash for one of the franchises unopened, on the floor.

All street railways of Philadelphia at that time were under the management of the Union Traction Company. It was necessary to introduce special legislation to authorize the building of subway and elevated railroads. This was rushed through at unheard-of speed and immediately signed by the governor.

Franchises were at once introduced in Philadelphia and rushed through before the people really knew what was taking place. They granted rights to build thirteen elevated and underground and surface railways without any limit on the term of the franchises and absolutely without compensation to the city. To Boss McNichol, naturally, the Rapid Transit Company gave the contract for building the eastern half of its subway. "Live and let live!"

Citizens prominent in independent movements have seen their business injured. One great merchant was officially blackmailed. One of the most prominent men who opposed a traction ordinance received a hint from banking sources, which led him to withdraw.

Philadelphia is sometimes called the worst governed city in the United States.-Collier's.