The News Democrat

CREED PREJUDICE
CHARGED BY PRIEST

Lowell. Nov. 5.-That the Law and Order league, composed largely of Protestant ministers, is discriminating against two members of the reform police board because of their religion, is the charge made by the Rev. John M. McRory, O. M. I., of the Immaculate Conception church.

A sensation was created by this new phase of the police board investigation, which is now going on before Mayor Frederick W. Farnham.

Chairman Joseph Jennings and Commissioner John W. McEvoy are on trial, facing charges of malfeasance, incapacity, and neglect of duty.

In an interview with a reporter, Fr. McRory, who in a sermon Sunday attacked the league, said:

"From what I have seen thus far of the proceedings against these two men, I am convinced that the drive being made against them is because they are Catholics. What other view can one take of the case when it is shown that Commissioner Wier, the third member of the board, who is a Protestant, is not included in the drive?

"If it were in Ireland I would not wonder at it and would not say a word. Over there we never did have a show and got kicked out of the country when we dared to take a stand for our rights. But in free America it is different.

"Were there evidence that there was wrongdoing by the commissioners, I would be the first to demand that their official acts be investigated. But when it is apparent that the only reason this discrimination is going on is because they happen to be Catholics, something ought to be said against such action being tolerated."