The Fight for the Land Grant

Congressman Howell, of Illinois, on Saturday last presented to the House of Representatives a petition, signed by 1400 citizens of Washington Territory, praying for the forfeiture of the Northern Pacific land grant, and stating that the late resolution of the Seattle Chamber of Commerce does not correctly represent the sentiment of that locality. The petition referred to was circulated in this city and sent to Mr. Howell because it was known that he would see that it was properly presented for the consideration of Congress. The 1400 names thereon represent but a tithe of those which could be procured by the mere labor of extending opportunity for subscribing their names. Ninety per cent of the citizens of this Territory demand immediate and unconditional forfeiture of every acre of the land granted to the Northern Pacific Railroad not earned in strict compliance with the law. All the bluster and howl of the hireling press cannot cover up or rub out this fact. When a demand, as in this case, goes before Congress, that body is in duty bound to take decided action.