Richmond Planet

This may be our last battle. We believe that it is the beginning of our final triumph. MAY 17, 1923 JOHN MITCHELL, JR THE RICHMOND PLANET Virginia State Library. JOHN MITCHELL'S RINGING DEFENSE. Wants Depositors to Receive Dollar for Dollar of Their Earnings Asks for Reopening of Mechanics Savings Bank Institution Not Insolvent. VOL. XL. NO. 29 JOHN R Greets Mo Church Cares Wants Depos Their Earn ics Savi A crowd variously estimated to be from twelve to fifteen hundred people including some white people thronged the spacious Fifth Street Baptist Church, Friday night May 26th to listen to an address delivered by John Mitchell, Jr., President of the Mechanics Savings Bank and Editor of the Planet. The rostrum had been tastefully decorated with cut flowers and under the effulgent rays of the brilliantly lighted editions shed their fragrance up on the assembled throng. Hundreds or people are said to have been unable to obtain admission. Rev. J. H. Binnord, D. D. presided, Rev. W. E. Brown served as secretary. SPEAKER INTRODUCED. Rev, T. J. King, D. D., pastor of the church and President of the Virginia Baptist State Convention conducted the devotional exercises. At the conclusion, Rev, James H. Binford introduced President John Mitchell, Jr. Applause swept the audience as he came to the front and greeted that vast throng, which gathered to listen to all that he had to say. He said: Mr. Chairman:—I am more worried about what not to say than I am about what to say. This conviction has been in the nature of a national calamity, so far as the colored folks are concerned. As for the same race of people in this city, they are stunned and are asking themselves the question "What protection has any one of us, when in a brief space of time, not only our accumulations, but our reputations are taken away without a legitimate reason." PECULIAR CONDITIONS So far as I am individually concerned, my primary fault no doubt has been my effort to make something out of nothing, to lift my people up to the clarified atmosphere of finance, where white people bask in the sunlight of golden prosperity, with proper helpers and supporters below to keep them there while I had to grasp material here and there, ill-fitted for the tasks assigned to them. I am paying the penalty, no doubt and so be it. Clarence Mackey, in his "Eternal Justice" says: "A man is thought a knave or fool, or bigot plotting crime Who, for the advancement of his race is wiser than his time. For him the hemlock shall distill for him the axe be bared. For him the gibbet shall be built, for him the stake prepared. Him, shall the scorn and wrath of men pursue with deadly aim. And malice, envy, spite and lies shall desecrate his name. But truth shall conquer at the last, as round and round we run. And ever the right comes uppermost and ever is justice done." The Mechanics Savings Bank was chartered November 20 1901, by fifteen others and myself. We put up sixteen hundred dollars. Its gross assets have renched over Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars. ($700,000.00.) The charter was drawn and secured by Attorney George W. Leclair. It provided that the Bank could hold property agregating ten acres. This was before the organization of the State Corporation Commission and the Banking Division thereunder. The white officials have always been lenient in their dealing with our institutions. "But another king arose that knew not Joseph. Regulations had been made and laws enacted that did not permit a banking institution to hold real-estate and the Mechanics Savings Bank was ordered [Portrait of a man in formal attire, facing left, with a serious expression.] to dispose of its real estate DEPRECIATING ASSETS If you own a house and you were ordered to get rid of it at once, you would necessarily have to do so regardless of its value. This would entail a loss upon you. In this case the loss was on the depositors. As the bank's charter was granted before the organization of the Banking Division and the State Corporation Commission the law could not be retroactive, that is, it could not legally affect the charter of the Mechanics Savings Bank. We had no other recourse but to obey and we got rid of the property as rapidly as we could, but finally decided to organize the Bonded Realty Company, a holding company for the Bank. THE BONDED REALTY COMPANY The cost of the charter was paid out of our pockets and at no time was any salaries paid or any profit realized by the transaction. The corporation was organized to aid the Bank. Coloree people do not engage in enough commercial business to support a bank. It was necessary to resort to dealings in RICHMOND, VIRGINIA, SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 1923 EDITOR JOHN MITCHELL, JR. real-estate. As a result of these transactions I have made about $200,000.00 for the institution. I purchased a lot in the neighborhood of Lee Monument for $2,800.00. It was sold over my protest, being joined in this by the late A. D. Price for $6,500.00 and it is now worth $10,000.00. I purchased No. 4 W. Broad Street for $11,500.00 and sold it through Messrs. J. D. Carneat and Son. for $25,000.00 cash. I purchased 310 E. Broad St. for the Bank through Messrs. Pollard and Bagby many years ago for $17,750.00 and sold it year before last for $60,000.00. LARGE PROFIT. This is a gross profit of $42,750.00. I did not receive one penny of compensation on any of these sales and my salary was $20.00 per week. Yet they would have you believe that a man, who would do this, would steal from the Bank. In January, 1922 the Chief Bank Examiner announced that there were $83,500.00 worth of notes of the Bonded Realty Co. unsecured. This was startling information to me. The Cashier had not informed me of any such condition and the Bank examin- (Continued on Page 4.) MITCHELL DEFENSE FUND Collection Newspaperman Editor B. J. Davis, Atlanta Collection Friend M. F. Longist Mary F. Dews William Jenkins Mrs. Alice Norrail L. T. Johnson Rev. Robert J. Jackson Mrs. P. M. B. Hodge R. W. Whiting Mrs. Angle Burnett DIED—Thursday, May 31, 1923, at 11:55 A.M. M. Claiborne E. Cunningham, at his residence in Woodland Cemetery He leaves a wife, daughter, nieces, and nephews to mourn their loss. His funeral will take place Sunday, 1:00 P. M. from the Second Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Z. D. Lewis officiating. Interment in Woodland Cemetery. PRIZE WINNERS IN THE LOUISIANA PEONAGE CASES UNCOVERED JOLLY M PUZZLE BY NEW ORLEANS BRANCH. N. A. A. C. P. First Prize—John H. Fuller, 700 Spruce St., Danville, Va. Score, 78; $3.00. Second Prize—Mary E. Whitehead 1137-32nd St., Newport News, Va. Score, 72; $2.50. Third Prize—Beulah McKenzie, R. F. D. No. 3, Box 18, Prospect, Va. Score, 71; $2.00. Fourth Prize—Mrs. Lucy B. Chiles 316 W. Leigh St., Richmond, Va. Score, 69; $1.50. Fifth Prize—Roy Olverson Box 330, Pulaski, Va. Score, $5; $1.00. Sixth Prize—R. D. Jones, 113 W. Milton St., Readville, Mass. Score, 64; $2.00. Exercises of the Commencement week begin June 3rd and continue through the 7th. The baccalaureate sermon takes place Sunday, June 3rd: 3:20 P. M. at Hartshorn Memorial College. The Rev. H. F. Stillman, D. D., Secretary of Evangelism the American Baptist Home Mission Society will be the speaker. On Tuesday, June 5th, 2:30 P. M. the Academy will have its class day exercises while at night President W. P. F. Sauce of Brown. University will be the speaker at Hartshorn. On the next afternoon the class-day exercises of the College and Theological departments of the University will be held. At 8:30 P. M. the Rev. R. J Langston, principal of Smallwood-Cory Memorial Institute will deliver the graduating address of the Academy. On Thursday, June 7th, is commencement day propet Beginning at 10:00 A.M. alumni will meet at which one the figure will be a memorial ad dress in home of the late Rev. Prof Joseph Endosmith, D. D., by the Rev. W. P. Hayes, New York City. The business session of the alumni convenes at 2:00 P. M. At 4 P. M. the twenty-fourth annual convocation address will be delivered by Dr. C. V. Roman, author, physician and teacher. physician and teacher of Nashville Tennessee while at 6:30 the alumni dinner will be served. The number of graduates is somewhat larger than in former years. The academic graduates are C. E. Artis, W. E. Barco, H. R. Boffman, W. O. Bowley, L. L. Chamberlain, W. R. Claytor, W. E. Cook A. R. Cox, F. W. Davis L. E. Derritt, J. M. Edgar, W. M. T. Forrester, B. C. Gregory, T. Hare E. J. Hall, R. L. Hinkson, C. A. Irvin, E. Jackson, George Jackson J. J. Jones Jr., W. J. Kerr, R. B. Kyles, A. G. Macklin, J. F. Martin, J. R. Moore, C. L. Mullen; J. I. Parks Ray Patton, F. W. Plerce, B. F. Pinn; E. Price; G. D. Puteofy, T. S. Russell, H. C. Roane, B. Speaks, O. Stevens, E. B. Sugga H. R. Taylor, R. P. Williams, P. D. Wilkerson, Jr.; J. S. Woolridge, Jr. Mr. Kerr is the ranking student of the academy. From the College the following men receive the bachelor's degree: L. M. Tobin Valedictorian, Dudley Mallory, solutatorian, M. W. Akins, R. W. Almond, T. W. Barnett, A. A. Branch, L. Cornfitter, R. D. Cunningham G. T. DeLoach; T. Goode, W. W. Greene, S. W. Greene, A. S. Hale, C. E. Jackson, W. J. Wones G. W. Liverpool, George McDonald, R. B. Powell, A. J. Pryor, I. Robinson, H. M. Ruffin, C. G. Segar, S. Stovan, W. T. Taylor, W. D. Verby. In the theological department, candidates for the degree of bachelor of divinity are Charles Samuel Clarke, A. B. and Arthur Williams and for the degree of bachelor of theology is Charles James Smith. Other theological graduates are Joseph Arrington and Howard Williard Brooks. For the Degree of Master of Arts (In Education) the following are candidates: Bessie C. Edwards, A. B.; Isom Gilbert Gladden, A. B. B. D.; Joseph Spurgeon Johnson, A. B.; Rory Horace Johnson, A. B. B. D.; and William Lee Ransome, A. B. B. D. D. D. A Great Debate will be given at the Sharon Baptist Church Monday night, June 4th. 8:30 P. M. Subject: Should the Church Change Its Present Attitude on the Dance? Affirmative: Rev Royal Starke, M. J. E. Horn: Negative: Mr. J. J. Finner, Jr. Mr. J. B. Huling. Addition 10 Cents. A. H. DR. PAYNE'S ANNIVERSARY. The Forty-third anniversary of the Rev. Evans Payne, D. D., will be celebrated at the Fourth Baptist Church as follows: Sunday June 3rd, 11:15 A. M., and 8:00 P. M. Sermon by Rev. W. F. Graham, D. D. pastor of the Holy Trinity Baptist Church Philadelphia Pa Tuesday June 5th, 8:00 P. M. sermon by Rev. O. B Simms, B. D., pastor Rising Mt. Zion Baptist church Thursday June 7th, 8:00 P. M. serm on Rev. T. J. King D. D., pastor Fifth Street Baptist church. Sunday June 10th, 11:15 A. M. serm on Rev. R. H. Johnson, B. D., pastor Sharon Baptist Church. Sunday June 10th 8:00 P. M. sermon by Rev. W. L. Ransome, D. D. pastor First Baptist Church South Richmond. The choirs of each church represent ed have been requested to accompany their pastor. The program is also inter spersed with musical and literary numbers. YOUNG MORRIS HOME OFF TOUR. Norfolk, Va., May 28.—(Special correspondence)—Having completed a notable tour through the South and East, where he was acclaimed by several thousands persons of both races in seven weeks. Charles Satchell Morris, Jr. of Norfolk, Va., distinguished young orator and publicist, returned to his home here today. Probably no figure on the American platform has drawn greater crowds than the eloquent young Virginian. In the very heart of Dixie the orator discussed the present exodus in all of its phases, declaring that "the Negro will only remain in the South, when the South guarantees in unmistakable terms that liberty shall not be abrogated by race, nor trampled by color." Immediately following his arrival here he departed on a three weeks' trip through North Carolina, where he will speak under the auspices of Chambers of Commerce of that State. He will also appear in many institutions that have herefore been closed to the Negro. On Memorial Day, Mr. Morris will be the annual orator at the colossal celebration to be staged in the Federal Cemetery at Salisbury, N. C. to be held by the Ministerial Alliance. A record breaking crowd of more than 10,000 persons are expected, to be in attendance. It was announced here today that the noted orator is in receipt of an invitation from the white Baptist of California urging him to visit that State. —(E. C. Washington, Jr.) CASES UNCOVERED BRANCH, N. A. A. C. P. A report made public by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, 70 Fifth Avenue New York City, gives details of the recent Louisiana peonage case exposed through the investigation undertaken by the New Orleans Branch of the N. A. A. C. P. The victims of the peonage were Mrs. Emma Johnson and her two nine year old daughters, of Picayune, Miss Isisplp, who were enticed to Tangipahon Perish in Louisiana with the promise of transportation and board and pay of 1 cent for every box of strawberries picked. A labor agent and a colored woman enticed them. When they had arrived at Tickwaf, Louisiana, they were carried to the strawberry farm of Benjamin Kinch con, 9 miles from the station and held in a state of slavery, with no sleeping accommodations and poor food chiefly of corn bread and syrup and were forced to work from sunrise until sun down. Hezzie Pringle the woman's brother, found his way to the farm and offered to pay whatever debt his sister and her children owed Kinch con if he would release them, Mr. Kinchon beat Pringle with a club and would have shot him if his wife had no begged him to spare Pringle. The wife hid the revolver, enabling Pringle to escape to New Orleans, where he reported the case to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. The Association presented the facts to United States Attorney Burns who ordered Federal Agents to bring the berry pickers on the Kincheon farm to New Orleans for questioning and to arrest the colored women who had enticed them. These orders were carried out and Mrs. Emma Johnson, her two nine year old daughters and several other people were brought before the Federal Courts in New Orleans. This case was handled by Dr. G. W. Lucas, President of the New Orleans Branch, N. A. A. C. P. and by the Grief Committee of the Branch, composed of Messrs. Jas. F. Gayle, F. B. Smith and Jas. A. Sample. --- —Mr. Henry W. Burrell of Cleveland Ohio who has been visiting his sister, Mary A. Hayes of 704 E. Bates street, city has returned. —Mr. Ferrel Meadows, of Glen Allen, Va., in company with his son, Mr. Jesse Meadows called on us. JUDGE JAYNE ACCEPTS PLACE ON N. A. A. C. P. BOARD. Declares Its Work ('Sanest Effort' For Negro Rights in Country Today. Judge Ira W. Jayne of the Michigan Circuit Court, Third Circuit, has accepted membership upon the Board of Directors of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. it was announced today at the Association's headquarters. 70 Fifth Avenue, New York City. In his letter of acceptance, Judge Jayne characterized the Association's work as the sanest effort for Negro rights in the country today, saying: "I have enjoyed my work with the local branch very much and anticipate that membership on the Board will give me a greater opportunity to take part in what I believe to be the best directed and sanest effort towards securing Negroes their just rights that we have in the country today." Sunday, June 3rd, 3:30 P. M. Ebenezer Baptist Church. Hear Dr. Carter Ashton Jenkins. Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, preach on the above subject at the Ebenezer Baptist Church Sunday June 3rd at 3:30 P. M. Tr. Jenkins will be accompanied by a quartette from the Calvary Baptist Church. Be on time, excellent music. Auspices of the Dyer-Tefft Junior Missionary Society of the Ebenezer Baptist church. Mrs. Ora B. Stokes, Supt.; Miss Maria E. Burke, Pres.; Miss Kulah N. Cunningham, Sec.; Miss Inca Frye Treas.; Dr. W. H. Stokes, Minister. THE RICHMOND PLANET, RICHMOND. VIRGINIA THREE ```markdown ``` --- A STATEMENT TO THE PUBLIC: We stake forty-five years' reputation for honesty, integrity and honorable action against ten months' aspersions of our enemies and those who desire to profit by the failure of the greatest financial institution of the colored people. Our primary object and desire is to reimburse any of our people who have invested in any enterprise fostered by us We solemnly swear now, as we swore upon the witness stand, that not one dollar of our forty-five years' accumulation has been the result of dishonorable actions or sharp practices. We insist that the money alleged to be missing cannot be traced to us either directly or indirectly and that of all the people involved we are the greatest sufferer, even as our honesty has been our greatest asset. The money belonging to us and to the organizations with which we are affiliated was taken by others or was accredited to other accounts, so that when checks were drawn upon the account there was no money to meet them. There was no other course for us to pursue, other than to assume complete responsibility Our ledger sheets at the Bank had been stolen, removed in order to cover up these peculations and to make us the victim. We had not transferred our property. It was all in our own name and while the liability chargeable to us from this source was approximately ($64,000) Sixty-four Thousand Dollars, we surrendered assets (real estate) which conservatively handled, will bring over ($100,000) One Hundred Thousand Dollars, which is ($36,000) Thirty six Thousand Dollars more than the alleged liability. We have never had charge of a record in the Mechanics Savings Bank in twenty years' service. We could not have made a false entry upon the books of that concern. We had no reason so to do when we had surrendered property with a gross rental of ($11,000) Eleven Thousand Dollars. We have defended colored people, secured their release from jails, penitentiaries and stopped executions upon the gallows. We are now called upon to defend ourselves. Certain it is, that the people whom we have defended will stand by us. As for the better class of Southerners, their testimony in our behalf is an outstanding feature of this crucial period of our existence. We are trusting in God. In the language of Shakespeare, we are saying to our traducers and slanderers- There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats For I am armed so strong in honesty that they pass me by Like the idle wind, that I respect not. A full, free and square vindication is demanded by us and we believe we shall obtain it. JOHN MITCHELL, JR. Richmond, Va., May 9, 1923. --- FOUR Published Every Saturday by John Mitchell, Jr. at 311 North Fourth Street, Richmond, Va. All communications intended for publication should be sent to reach us by Wednesday. Entered at the Post Office at Richmond, Virginia as second class matter. SUBSCRIPTION RATES One Year ... $ 2.00 Six Months ... 1.10 Three Months ... .80 Evergreen Subscriptions ... 2.50 SATURDAY... JUNE 2, 1923 We have always believed in eternal justice, the supremacy of right over wrong. Running for Governor on colored folks ticket is a costly experiment. We have paid the price. Good white people will assert them selves eventually, just as good colored ones will make their influence felt. Selfish schemers may win today, but they will lose out tomorrow or the next day or the day thereafter. We have always believed that the colored people would stand by us, for the reason that we have always stood by them. This is a world of trouble of trials and bereavements and the sooner we become convinced of this fact, the better. Some of these agents of the devil can over-reach themselves, especially when a person has a mouth and a good newspaper to combat them. Trying to injure our reputation throughout the country has failed just as we predicted it would fall for the reason that too many white and colored people know us and our friends are not dead. The Mechanics Savings Bank must function again the enemies of the colored folks to the contrary notwithstanding. The good white folks outnumber the bad and the leading State officials are all right. Our treatment in this city has created a sensation throughout the country and our friends everywhere are assocated at the audacity of the movement and the cold-bloodedness of those who should have known better. We have received promises of support from many of our white friends too and the indications are that this outrageous attack upon our honor and upon our integrity will fail. FACTS AND FIGURES The Mechanics Savings Bank of Richmond, Va., is not now and has never been insolvent. The auditors employed by the receivers reported that the shortage was about two hundred thousand dollars, but they did not state to the public or to the jury in the Hustings Court of this City how they arrived at this conclusion. They threw out negotiable paper of the institution to the amount of ($135,82.79.) One Hundred and Thirty-five Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty-two Dollars and Seventy-nine Cents. They valued the bonds on the Strand Theater at less than par and while they are worth par deducted ($13,000,00). Thirteen Thousand Dollars on this account. They placed the stock of the Pythian Caranthe Industrial Association as being worthless, when it represented ownership in the Pythian Temple, 727 N. Third St., a three story building on which there is not one penny's worth of mortgage or liability of any kind and which cannot be duplicated for less than Fifteen Thousand Dollars. This was throwing out assets to the amount of $150,462.79, which assets should be restored. The actual shortage stated by them is ($203,013.35) Two Hundred and Three Thousand and Thirteen dollars and T thirty-five cents. Deducting the shortage or items thrown out by them, the actual shortage will be Fifty- Two Thousand. Five Hundred and Fifty Dollars and Fifty-six cents. When it is remembered that we put an property on which the gross rental --- alone was in excess of Eleven Thous and Dollars per year and the bond was One Hundred Thousand Dollars, by what scheme of reasoning can it be worked out that the Mechanics Savings Bank is insolvent? Outside of the money due the depositors, the only other creditor of the Bank is the American National Bank and Fifty-five Thousand Dollars will pay in full the amount due that corporation. Now the depositors have come forward waiving 80 per cent. of their deposits and accepting 20 per cent in cash and waiting a reasonable time for the remainder due them would further reduce the liability by approximately Three Hundred Thousand Dollars and force the reopening of the institution. Under this arrangement and by Main Street interests, the depositors would stand a chance of receiving dollar for dollar, while under the receivers' management with legitimate legal charges, they would be lucky if they received twenty per cent. PRESIDENT MITCHELL SPEAKS IN FULTON. Mitchel Defense Clubs Organized Resolutions Adopted. A rousin gmeeting was held at the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Fulton, last Tuesday night. Mr. John Tyler presided with Mr. Wm. A. Braxton, secretary. Mrs. Ethel Flemming sang a solo. Mrs. C. A. Cobbs sang: "God Will Take Care of You." The speaker was deeply affected. Mr. W. Valentins also sang a solo. Then Rev. W. E Brown introduced President John Mitchell, Jr., of the Mechanics Savings Bank. He spoke for about forty minutes relative to the Mechanics Savings Bank, being frequently applauded. The church was packed to its capacity. At the conclusion Mrs. Sylvia L. Scott spoke of her work organizing clubs and the following resolutions were unanimously adopted. Whereas, we the citizens of Fulton have known John Mitchell, Jr., former than twenty years and his reputation for honesty and square dealing has been his greatest asset and we have not during this time observed any act on his part to cause us to lose confidence in him and, Whereas, his leadership has been of the highest order and his upright conduct has been the source of commendation on the part of all clases and Whereas his unselfish conduct in aid and helping the oppressed and the championing of the rights of his people has given him a standing in this country second to none of our leaders, therefore, Be it Resolved that we take this method of assuring to him our united and undivided support. Resolved Second, that we pledge to him our full support and recommend the appointment of a committee of seven to organize Mitchell Defensa Clubs in this section. Resolved Third, that we pledge our support in his effort to reopen the Mechanics Savings Bank and urge the people everywhere to aid and assist in this laudable undertaking. Resolved Fourth, that this miscarriage of justice in his case constitutes a serious menace to the colored people of this State and we ealt upon the authorities to correct this blunder before it is too late. Mitchell Defense Clubs were organized and the following Committee appointed to carry on the work. Mr. C. B. Jefferson, Dr. J. O. Dawson, Mrs. Joseph Taylor, Mrs. Laura Bess, Mr. Frank Jeker, Mrs. Rhoda Dawson, and Mr. John Tyler. Benedict on was announced by Rev. C. A. Cobbs, pastor of the church. PENSYLVANIA ANTI-LYNCH BILL SIGNED BY GOV. PINCHOT. Participation in a lynching constitutes murder, by the terms of the Stevens Anti-Lynching Bill, passed by bota Houses of the Pennsylvania legislature and now signed by Governor Pincot of that State, according to announcement today by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. The Bill also provides that anyone attempting to take from an officer a prisoner who has sought the protection of the court because of race prejudice or other cause may be奖金 $10,000 and imprisoned 10 years. An officer guilty of letting his prisoner be taken may be奖金 $5,000 or imprisoned for five years. Counties in which a lynching occurs must forfeit $10,000 payable to the victim's dependents or to the State. This measure modelled upon the Dyer Anti-Lunching Bill was sponsored in the Pennsylvania legislature by the legislative department of the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs which worked unceasingly for the enactment. SHARON BAPTIST CHURCH SUNDAY, JUNE 3rd, 1923. Location: Corner of Leigh and First Streets. Sunday School Lesson: "Jeremiah the Prophet of Courage" Jeremiah 35: 5:14, 18, 19. The pastor Rev. R. H. Johnson, Jr. B. D., will preach at each service. Subjects:—11:30 A. M. "The Consecrated Life." 3:30 P. M. Communion Sermonette. 8:15 P. M. "Following Jesus." 6:00 P. M. Young People's Meeting. Regular prayer Meeting every Wednesday at 8:00 P. M. Our friends and visitors are cordial invited to attend any services of the church. We welcome strangers in our midst. We thank each and every one for the very splendid showing made on the occasion of our regular May Rally. It proves that we have learned the lesson of the stewardship of substance. Let us practice same at all times. Rev. R. H. Johnson, Jr. B. D. pastor; W. L. Johnson, Clerk. THE RICHMOND PLANET, RICHMOND, VIRGINIA A RINGING DEFENSE A RINGING DEFENSE (Continued from Page 1) ers from the Banking Division had not made any report concerning the same. I called for a complete audit of the Bank. The Chief Bank Examiner insisted on a bond of $100,000.00 to be signed by all of the Directors. GUARANTEED AGAINST LOSS. I guaranteed the Directors against loss. I had also asked for an audit of my personal account. The Cashier stated to me that the "boys," mean ng the creers had charged up thirty thousand dollars of the notes of the Bonded Realty Company, to my personal account. It took several months for tax auditors to complete the work and they reported the Bank all right and that there was no sign of crookedness. I went to see the Chief Examiner and asked him to permit me to assume the liability. I listed my property with him and he agreed to do this. When he had drawn up the papers I found that he had arranged the notes to draw six per cent interest. This was not in the nature of a bond, but a liability and I saw at once that this was virtually an effort to have me apear as though I was purchasing immunity. AN EMPHATIC STATEMENT I would see myself dead and damned before I would do this. I signed the notes and the mortgages, drawing a line through the interest charges. These notes have never been returned to me. Without further notice to the directors, he closed the bank, while it was doing business and was paying checks over the counter. Counsel assured me that the bank would be re-opened in 10 days after receivers were app pointed. Instead, a call for pass-books was made and then followed the announcement that the bank would not be re-opened until all of the pass books had been turned in and balanced. I was in favor of the balancing of the pass-books, having told the Board of Directors previously that this was the only proper way to ascertain the actual condition. TO REOPEN THE BANK. I proposed that the bank be reopened at once and the balancing of the pass-books be continued by the auditors. The Receivers declined to permit this to be done. I knew that it would take anywhere from six months to six years to do this. Then followed arrests and persecutions which brought out a scandal, which threatened to destroy the institution. It was only after the examination and a report of affairs in my personal business at the Planet office that I found out that between sixty and seventy thousand dollars had been taken from my personal account and that of the Order of Knights of Pythias. There was nothing for me to do, but to assume responsibility and I signed a bond for one hundred thousand dollars to protect both the bank and the Order of Knights of Pythias from loss. TOOK THE MONEY. My money and that of the Order having been misapplied or misappropriated, when the checks went there, there was no money to meet them. I am travelling much of my time and have suffered from the lack of competent clerical help. When the cashier reported to me that there was an overdraft. I usually gave notes to cover the same. As I paid all claims against the Order of Knights of Pythias out of my personal account and those of the Order of Calanthe the same way, sometimes I paid them before I and gotten orders for them from the G. K. of R. and S., or had drawn the money from the regular treasury. I built the Order up from nothing to some sixty thousand dollars. I have advanced money to the Order when it had none. When there was a run on the Mechanics Savings Bank many years ago, I signed a note pledging my property in order to bring up the wagon load of money from the American National Bank. THAT PECULIAR OVER-DRAFT. On June 30, 1922, the cashier informed me that after I had drawn checks for the Order amounting to approximately fifty-three thousand dollars, I was twenty-eight thousand dollars over-drawn. I told him I would get orders for the amount. I did not know whether the Order owed me or I owed the Order. He declined to receive the notes. Under Section 1, Article VI of the Grand Lodge Constitution I have the power to suspend the rules and regulations of the Order. At on-time when there was small pox at Portsmouth, I called the Grand Lodge off at a session under this provision. I gave the cashier a draft upon the funds of the Grand Lodge signed by me as Grand Chancellor. This made it a secured over-draft as against an unsecured overdraft. There was no concession about it, with the statement that I would secure regular orders in due course to take up the same. NO CONCEAL MENT There was no concealment about it. There could be no concealment for it went on record with a corporation which was subject to official supervision. The castier took these drafts and carried them and put them in his sate on Second Street when they should have been held in the bank. He did not testify that I told him to do this, but he said he did it for his own protection. He claimed that I told him to make an entry upon the books of the bank. I said that I did not. With some of the leading white and colored citizens of Richmond testifying to my character and with no one testifying for him, he being caught in conflicting statements, a jury took his word as against mine and convicted me. I have never been able to buy liquor at $15.00 per quart. I have never been able to take care of six women. A man who can support one is doing all that an ordinary man can do. THE STATEMENT OF THE CASE. This then is a statement of the case I have travelled all over the country, North and West calling upon colored people to come on back home, that the white people would give them their treatment. When they come, they are according to this jury to find me in the penitentiary. I met a colored man, on Clay street a few days ago. His eyes bore a startled expression and he said to me, "Mr. Mitchell, I heard that you had been convicted to the penitentiary. Is it true?" I told him it was, "I am going away tomorrow," he said and passed along. I have been for ten years or more trying to bring about a friendly relationship between the white and the colored races and yet he a brief season, all of my property and interests are sacrificed. CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR The commonwealth's attorney appealed to the jury about my begging a candidate for Governor, that I wore a high hat and a long tailed coat and a white jury convicted me. So far as I am personally concerned, I care little. I believe that there is a God that rules in the affairs of men, that what will be will be. I do not fear the pententiary. They cannot scare me with the electric chair. Of the two the electric chair is preferable. It ends quicker. There is no suffering afterwards. I have five lawyers. I shall have ten before they ever get me into the pententiary. I have no fear. I fear no one but God. They thought they had me. They waited until I had given up all of my property and then they thought I had no money with which to pay the lawyers. It reminded me of Samson and Delilah. She found out the source of Samson's strength was in his hair and then she got him into a stapor, cut off his hair and exclaimed, "Samsor, the Philistines are upon thee." THE PEOPLE RALLY These people thought the source of my strength was in my property and when I had signed that away, they attempted to put me into the penitentiary, thinking that I would not be able to raise money to pay my lawyers. But they forgot that there is a treasury never empty, the pockets of the people. I have saved other people in the shadow of the penitentiaries and the gallows. Certainly, I shall be able to have the colored folks stand by me. If the colored people stand solid, I can win. These people talk about stealing. Has any one done any more stealing than the white folks? Would a man, who gave up all of his property if properly handled would yield over one hundred thousand dollars, steal nineteen thousand dollars from the institution that he was supporting? WANT TO SELL HOME HOUSE. I turned over property to White trustees, the rental of which was gross over $11,000.00. They sold two pieces of this property at $6,750.00 less than the lowest valuation and twenty thousand and dollars less than its worth. As this commission on this sale was 5 per cent or $3,000.00 and the loss in value twenty thousand, the depositors were the losers to this amount. An effort is now under way to sell even my own residence to land speculators at far be low its actual value and thereby to put me in the street with neither house nor home. This is the way I am treated in a city, in which I have resided all of my life. The cost of a legitimate receivership will be so expensive that depositors would hardly realize twenty per cent and the bank would be in litigation from five to ten years or longer. It will be seen then the only proper course for the depositors would be to get rid of the receivership at once. I do wish the depositors, the cooks, butlers, wash-women, who had their earnings in the bank to get dollar for dollar. THAT COURT SUIT. At the time, they were charging me with stealing, I was on a note of the Mechanics Savings Bank for Twenty thousand dollars and that institution had received the money and a suit is now pending against me for twenty two thousand dollars in the Circuit Court of this city. This suit had been brought by the American National Bank which bank loaned the money to the Mechanics Savings Bank I have done the best I could. When the black ticket was nominated, I recommended that local Democratic tickets be put on our State ticket in a complimentary way in order to foster a better feeling amongst the races. Now, John Mitchell, Jr., is a candidate for the penitentiary. I conclude with the quotation from Mrs. Ella Wheeler Wilcox: "I know as my soul grows older, and mine eyes have clearer sight. That under each rank wrong some where. Three lies the root of right. That each sorrow has its purpose. By the sorrowing oft unguessed. But as sure as the sun brings morning. Whatever is, is best. THE END OF THE CHAPTER. Applause had greeted the speaker. Applause had greeted the speaker from time to time and at the conclusion the Secretary read the following resolutions, which were unanimously adopted. The meeting adjourned after Mitchell Defense Clubs had been organized and many had subscribed to the defense fund and others had placed the money on the table. The following resolutions were adopted; We, your Committee on Resolutions, beg leave to make the following report: Whereas we have known John Mitchell, Jr., for many years and his residence amongst us has been punctuated by acts of heroism, self-denial and a patriotic desire to aid his people and to serve the section of te country in which he resides, and Whereas, he is connected with the Christian church and a member of the Fifth Street Baptist Church, and Whereas, his unselfish devotion to the interests of his people has been shown for more than two decades, he having risked even his life in the defense of the helpless and the oppressed and Whereas, the efforts of his later life in bringing about the harmonious relationship between the white and col- ored races has been an outstanding factor, and Whereas, his unselfish sacrifice in surrendering all of his property to protect the depositors of the Mechanics Savings Bank from loss, stands without a parallel in the history of banking and his efforts, even now, to lessen the expense and to reopen the mechanics Savings Bank in order that the depositors of that institution may receive dollar for dollar of their hard earned savings, merits our approval. Therefore, be it; Resolved 2nd, that inasmuch as the President of a banking institution does not have charge of the ledger accounts of a banking institution and therefore is not responsible for entries made therein, that these resolutions be presented to the Banking Division and the departments of the State Government registering our protest. Resolved third, that a committee be appointed to wait upon the Receivers and that counsel be authorized to communicate with the State Corporation Commission and the Judge of the Chancery Court of this City with a view to securing information as to what is necessary to secure the reopening of the Mechanics Savings Bank. Resolved fourth, that we call upon all of our people to support their race enterprises and to aid the St. Luka Penny Savings Bank, the Second Street Bank and the Commercial Bank and Trust Company. Resolved fifth that the action and attitude of the better class of white citizens is hereby commended and that we extend to the Richmond, Va., Times-Dispatch and the Richmond Evening Dispatch our thanks for their friendly attitude towards our people during this grievous period. Resolved sixth, that we disapprove of the attempt to liquidate the assets of the Mechanics Savings Bank and those of John Mitchell, Jr., at prices far below the real value and urge that this action be suspended until such favorable conditions are prevailing to the end that the largest sums of money may be obtainable for the benefit of the depositors. Resolved seventh, that we recommend and urge that Mitchell Defense Clubs be organized throughout this city, state and country and that the necessary funds be raised to conduct his defense and to save him from the humiliation and expense which this case entails. Resolved eighth, that we pledge to him our united support and send notice to the world that we shall stand by him in this hour of his dire distress and unjust humiliation. Resolved ninth, that in view of the present unsettled condition of our people and the feeling of general unrest and a desire to leave this section of the country, this unfortunate occurrence has done more to increase this feeling than anything which has taken place during the past twenty-five years. LAW—BACKED BY N. A. A. C. P. Governor Smith Signs Measure Requiring Klan to File Membership Lists. The Ku Klux Klan will be required to file lists of their members in New York State, according to a bill backed by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, 70 Fifth Avenue, New York City and now signed by Governor Alfred Smith. The Association's Director of Publicity appeared in Albany at hearings on the measure and advocated its passage. Besides requiring the klan to file lists of members with the Secretary of State, the law requires notice of any concerted action to promote or defect legislation or to support or defeat canidates for office thus requiring the klan to operate in the open. According to the New York World which has consistently fought for the measure legislators in other states are sending in requests for copies or the law and it is expected it will be in produced in other state legislatures. The law, furthermore, prohibits circulation of anonymous letters or unsigned printed or written matter. If the klan communicates with anyone it will have to be upon klan stationery. WINS CIVIL RIGHTS FIGHT IN NEW JERSEY TOWN. Harry J. Simms, of Vineland, New Jersey, has written to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, 70 Fifth Avenue New York, announcing his victory in a civil rights fight against a restaurant of his town... where services had been refused him because of his being colored. Mr. Simms was informed that he would be charged one dollar extra for service because he was colored. Mr. Simms put the facts before his attorney with the result that the proprietor of the restaurant, Mr. Harry Steen, paid $50 in cash, made a public apology through an advertisement and made a written guarantee that all citizens would in future receive equal treatment in his restaurant. WOMAN'S BAPTIST STATE EDU CAIONTAI CONVENTION. Lynchburg, Va.—The Woman's Baptist State Educational and Mission convention of Virginia will meet June 29-24. 1923 at the Second Calvary Baptist church of Norfolk, Va. Send names to Mrs. Lizzie Willis, 815 Gooff Street, Mrs. M. Waller Richardson, Corresponding Secretary. 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Clay Street, Richmond PAYS SICK AND DEATH BENEFITS—RELIEVES THE TRESSED—TEACHES UNITY, ECONOMY, THRIFT, INDUC AND FOR THE MUTUAL PROTECTION OF ITS MEM Lodges Are Organized With Twenty or More Members LIVE WORKERS WANTED—GOOD FIELDS AND ABUN OPPORTUNITY FOR PROMOTION. Why Not Organize A Lodge? "Your Satisfaction Is Our Su For further information write— A. W. HOLMES, Founder and Supreme Ma O. E. Clay Street, Richmond, Va. BEATH BENEFITS—RELIEVES THE DIS-UNITY, ECONOMY, THRIFT, INDUSTRY, VUAL PROTECTION OF ITS MEMBERS, NIZIized With Twenty or More Members. NINTED—GOOD FIELDS AND ABUNDANT UNITY FOR PROMOTION. Lodge? "Your Satisfaction Is Our Success." Further information write— Founder and Supreme Master Home Office, 210 E. Clay Street, Richmond, Va. PAYS SICK AND DEATH BENEFITS—RELIEVES THE DISTRESSED—TEACHES UNITY, ECONOMY, THRIFT, INDUSTRY, AND FOR THE MUTUAL PROTECTION OF ITS MEMBERS Lodges Are Organized With Twenty or More Members. LIVE WORKERS WANTED—GOOD FIELDS AND ABUNDANT OPPORTUNITY FOR PROMOTION. Why Not Organize A Lodge? "Your Satisfaction Is Our Success." For further information write— A. W. HOLMES, Founder and Supreme Master and thous for i also Can and silky. Perfumed with a balm of a thousand flowers. The best known remedy for iteavy and Beautiful Black Eyebrows, also restores Gray Ha₂ to its Natural Color. Can be used with hot iron for Straightening nt by Mall, 50c: 10c Extra for Postage. AGENTS OUTFIT 1 Shampoo, 1 Pressi tion for Selling, $2.0 S. D. LYONS, 316 Nor DAY PHONE, RAN. 4903 W. A. PRICE OUTFIT—1 Hair Grower, 1 Temple Oil, 1 Pressing Oil, 1 Face Cream and Direc- tilling, $2.00. 25 cents extra for postage. 316 North Central, Oklahoma City, Okla. 9003 NIGHT PHONE, MAD. 5,5-W RICE COMPANY AGENTS OUTFIT—1 Hair Grower, 1 Temple Oil, 1 Shampoo, 1 Pressing Oil, 1 Face Cream and Direction for Selling. $2.00. 25 cents extra for postage. DAY PHONE, RAN. 4903 NIGHT PHONE, MAD. 5,5-W W. A. PRICE COMPANY FUNERAL DIRECTORS AND EMBALMERS Spacious Rooms for Meetings and Entertainments. OFFICE AND WAREROOMS 700 N. 17TH STREET, RICHMOND, VIRGINIA Thos. D. Rodgers, Pres.; W. A. Price, Treas.; Nathantel Roy, Mgr. PHOTOS—We Offe. You the Latest and Most Artistic Photos at a More Moderate Figure than you can Obtain Elsewhere. Special Attention Paid to Children. We will also be Pleased to Quote You Prices on Exterior and Interior View Work. ENLARGING AND COPYING FROM OLD PHOTOS A SPECIALTY. GEORGE O. BROWN, Photographer 603 NORTH SECOND STREET. RICHMOND, VIRGINIA ```markdown ``` ROBERT C. SCOTT, Funeral Director FIRST CLASS LIVERY. OFFICE 2220 E. MAIN ST. TELEPHONE, RANDOLPH 2073. ALL NIGHT AND SUNDAY CALL RAN. 2703. RICHMOND, VIRGINIA. A. D. PRICE. 212 EAST LEIGH STREET FUNERAL DIRECTOR, EMBALMER AND LIVERYMAN All Orders Promptly Filled at Short Notice by Telegraph on Telephone. Halls Rented for Meetings and Nice Entertainments. Plenty of Room with all Necessary Conveniences. Large Picnic or Band Wagons for Hire at Reasonable Rates and nothing but First-class Automobiles and Carriages, Etc. Keep Constantly on Hand Fine Funeral Supplies. Open All Day and Night. PHONE MADISON 577—Man On Duty All Night—RICHMOND, VA (RESIDENCE NEXT DOOR) THE NEGRO'S ROCK OF GIBRALTAR THE AFRICAN BLOOD BROTHERHOOD 2299 Seventh Avenue, N. Y. City. (National Headquarters) Intellectual, Social and Protective Benefits. Initiation Fee, $1. Monthly Dues, 25 cents. Writers and Speakers Wanted. Good proposition for live wire Organizers. Organize a Post in your community. Sokols and Educational Groups. --- GOOD FOR FIVE VOTES. Read The Planet for information concerning the world's "doings" and watch our advertisements. May map you will see the very thing you have been looking for. EAST INDIA HAIR GROWER Will Promote a Full Growth of Hair, will also restore the Strength, Vitality and the Beauty of the Hair. If your Hair is Dry and Wiry try EAST INDIA HAIR GROWER. If you are bothered with Falling Hair Dandruff, Itching Scalp, or Hair Trouble, we want you to try a jar of EAST INDIA HAIR GROWER. The remedy contains medical properties that go to the roots of the hair, stimulates the skin, helping nature to do its work. Leaves the hair soft Correspondence. ROANOKE ITEMS. ROANOKE, VA., May 29.—Rev. George P. Miller, of Mt. Zion A. M. B. Church, the ‘local deacon, filled the pulpit’ Sunday morning, with great! credit to the occasion, as well as to his calling. His subject was, “Life.” Rev. Hatcher preached Sunday morning to the graduating class of Christiansburg College. ‘The Doctor was home to fill his pulpit at night, after having driven his car to Chris- tlansburg and back. He delivered a sermon from a very important sub- Jeet, “Why Worry?” His text was, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Ye betieve in God, believe also in ma” After the sermon men and women festified to their experiences in answered prayers and restoration to health of friends. Rev. Hatcher and C. H. Howard returned from Kittrell College, where they attended the commencement exercises last Euesday and Wednes- day. They are trustees of the school from Mt. Zion A. M. B. Church. The ‘exercises were very grand. Rev. Hatcher is much indisposed at this writing, having contracted a severe cough. Mr. Thomas Stanficlé has been in- disposed since last week at his home, 634 Ninth Avenue, N. B. He is im- proving. Mr, H, Green, who left the city two years ago to attend a convention in Petersburg, returnod here to attend the Baptist State Convention. Mr. Green {s looking fine and his friends were glad to greet him. Mrs. Berta Howard, 302 Seventh Avenue, N. W. who has been suffer- ing with rheumatism is much better, Mr. Robert ‘Toliver, of Seventh Avenue is still indisposed and feeble. Mr. Nick Burford of Blue Ridge Springs, died Friday, May 25, after a short illness. ‘The funeral services took place Sunday afternoon. Mr. Burford was well known and highly respected. The Agent worked with hm 39 years ago at Blue Ridge. He leaves to mourn thelr loss, a devoted and loving wife and a host of friends of both races. He was a staunch Christian. Many Roanokers attended the funeral. W. R. Banister will move to his new ‘pool parlor, 11 Norfolk Avenue, near Barnes’ Drug Store. It is three stories brick, and the two upper stiories will be used for rooming for travelers. CHICAGO NEWS. "The Appellate Court affirmed a judgment in an interesting case last Week in the suit entitled Nelsoa Brothers et al against Edward FP. Jones. The decision established a new principle governing the financing com panies in the purchase of automobiles ‘on time. ‘The defendant bought an automo- bile from the Ford Ageney in Evans- ton making his down payment, The deil was financed by Neison Brothers ‘of Evanston who agreed to carry tive an dthett insurance for one year prem “jums paid in advance ‘The’ machine was stolen and te Insurance Com pany and Nelson Frothers sought to ‘avoid payment by cliiming tat the machine, was stolen while being usec for taxi cab purposes and that such use of the machine voided the policy. Attorney Walter M. Farmer, represent €d the defendant contended that tie financing company in such cireum- stances acted as insurers against tir and theft and that if the knowledge of the provision yoiding the policy was not brought to the defendant's know! edge, they are liable to the defendant for the loss of his machine in 90 poz cent of the list price. ‘The Appellate Court took the same view of the case and affirmed the find ing of the lower Court which gave the defendant judgment for $715.50; 99 per cent. of the list price. Mrs, Sarah E, Garrison, daugiter ruler of Pride of Chicago Temple No. 741. B.P. 0. E,W, is proud of the success which this ‘temple has made during her administration as daughtes ruler. Wm, Crudup, @ member and officer of Ebenezer Baptist. church, wes! known citizen is Improving somewhat at Provident Hospital where he has heen fll for several weeks. Mother's Day was largely colebrated at Allen's A. M. B, Chapel. 30th and Dearborn streets of whieh Rev, T. Les Ue Scott is pastor. Fifteen were added to the church. The choir sold flowers to the amount of $32.00, Mrs. Dora Hawley mother of Mes: @ames Anderson and Crenshaw, milli hers 2468 8. State street has gone East and will visit among other cities New York with relatives and friends. Funeral services for the late daught er Bewlah Williams were held from Arnett Chapel, Morgan Park of whieh she was a devout member. Rev. H. KE. Walden. pastor officiating. Mrs. Wit- linms was n great worker of Pride ef Morgan Park Council, A. U.K. ant Dz of A. M_T. BAILEY 18 OPENING WAY | FOR MEMBERS OF THE RACE M. 'T. Bailey president the Bailey Realty Co., 3628'S. State street, whe ‘tas sold more than sixteen blocks of property to members of the Race in Morgan Park is closing ont in the next few days all original purchase | tots and has 9 negotiation on which | mey result in bringing under control and management more than $250,000 worth of lots and other property to be at the disposal, on easy terms, to members of the Race coming from ait parts of the country. ‘Thus he has truly opened the way in this section of the country for the members of the Race. —__-=-- WYTHEVILLE NEWS. ‘The revival at | Franklin St. M. 8. Church conducted by Miss Blizabeth M. Wilson, is gaining favor cach day. ‘The Holy Spirit is moving upon the hearts of men. nited efforts of the churely membership of our towns every where in evidence, May the Lord continue his blessings upon us. Go on S.ster Wilson, The services at the Baptist and A. M. KE, church were well attended. Rev, ‘T. W. Hebron preached the annual sermon for the Keystone Lodge No 471 and the Miner Lodge No. 473 of Abingdon, Sunday 27th, ‘The two lodges have ‘a membership. of 38 and 82 respectively. Mr. Joln M'ner, Dep» ty, Mr. Albert Cloud W. C., Mrs, Jose phine Moors P.D.. Mr. Floyd Clark Master of Ceremonies. Mrs. Alice Cot ‘ten delivered a strong, well-timed and instructive address. Abingdon rose to Praise these two Good Samaritan tte Messrs. Albert Holliday and Tony land Ohio. ‘one | Mr. and Mrs. Harold G, Davis of De ‘troit Michigan and Mra. Janie Trigg ‘of Pulaski, Va, were in Wytheville, ‘gusst of relatives last week | Mr. Frederick Monroe of Durham N.C. and Miss Willie Monroe why |has been teaching in West, Va., are ithe guests of their mother, Mrs, Jen nie Monroe in North Wytheville. | Mr. Garland Chapman and bttie niece Edith Lee Chapman visited Dub lin and Pulaski Sunday. Mrs. M. J. Stepteau and grand-daugh te: Virginia Stepteau returned — this morning afer spending a few weeks 1n Giliam, W. Va. Little Janie Crockett has the meas les. Mr. Willie Harper went to Roanoxe Saturday to take civil service exami nation, We wish him much success. | Mrs. Homer Hairston end litte nephew left Friday for W. Va, Institute to attend thé commencement; while |there she will be the guest of Mr. and |Mrs, Delmar Prillerman, Misses Evelyn Chapman and Myrtic Hampton will leaye for Pulaski to_a1 tend the Epworth League Conventio: | Little Myrtle Chapman is home again from Dublin Va, Mrs. Gertrude Allen wishes to thank her many friends and especially her pastor for their many acts of kindnes: curing her illness. Trusting that taey wiil continue to pray for her. Messrs. Rueben Holliday, Emmet Carter and Mrs. B, M. Hepron went to JIvanhoe | Saturday “night to aitina Itheir lodge of Gallitee Fasherman. 1 “SEEING” BY SKIN NOW IS AN ADMITTED FACT. | = |Group of Eminent French Scientists | Convinced of ‘Truth of Farigoule s ‘Theory. | |G.HAT ADVANCE IN TWO YEARS Totally Blind Abie to Distinguish O1 acts, Numerals and Colors, Says American Medicine. A clear explanation of the method iby which a French scientist is said tu have taught blind persons to ‘see’ through their skins, the truth of which is now admitted by French specialists, is contained in these comments on the subject by American Medicine: “Some two yeurs ago we reported in these columns the interesting expert- oats of Professor Louis Farigoule of ‘the University of Paris in extra-rett- nal vison, Professor Farigouie haa tromed several soldiers blinded in the war to see with their skins, to recog: nize objects, read numbers, distingt- ish colors by holding their hands up to tirem palms out. ‘The experiments which were still in an early stage, nev ertheless indicated enormons possibtn ties, but for two years nothing was again heard of either Professor Fari- goule or his theories. “The reason 4s now revealed. It ap- Dears that the scientists of our day have learned little from history. ana the modern savant with unorthodox views is as open, if not to persecution at east to Irostility, as in past centur les. Professor Farigoule's demonstra- tions two years ago were met with se vere hostility by his colleagues and contemporaries and being a modest, sensitive man, he preferred to with draw from the public eye, pursuing his studies privately. “He hoped, however, that in the meantime some student, with an impar tial passion for scientific truth would take up his theories, put them to. the test and thus verify his findings. But no one came forward and it began to appear that a discovery of real scien tifle importance was being permitted to die of neglect through incredulity. FARIGOULE'S PATIENCE. | Aten tate ge youre the worl wa. giving an amazing amount of ere: dulity to the theories of obscure phar- macists from Nancy. chemists promis. ing youth and long life to those wiro would partake of their magic elixirs and other trifling innovations which smacked of the sixteenth century. Pro fessor Farigowle was a patient man, but patience has its limits. He there: fore decided to abandon his pacific methods and to become more aceres sive, not because he sought publicity but because he felt his obligations to science. He thereupon recently called a conference of specialists, unbelievers as well as helievers, to attend a seance in Paris, “The seance was well attended, Hm nent biologists. neurologists, specialis: of many branches gathered at the secnce. In the two years of retirement THE RIOHMOND PLANET, RICHMOND, VIRGINIA Yes, the owners of the Mechanics Savings Bank, representing approximately three hu individuals, the depositors, representing about three thousand, not including the holde Christmas Savings Club Cards, the white and colored people of this city, who are vitally ; ested in retaining the confidence of the colored peoole of this cummounity and the good opini the white and colored peuple of the United States, are waiting, : They all want to know the approximate amount of the assets to re-open the Mech Savings Bank. The amount is stated in the following extract from the decree signed by the Judge of the Richmond Chancery Court— But how much more is needed? The Receivers assert that they cannot determine this amount until all the.pass-books of the depositors have been turnedin and balanced. To meet this condition the depositors, in meeting assembled, by unanimous vote, decided to share in any liability in excess of the amount already ascertained. This relieves the situation and enables the Receivers to strike a balance and submit the same to the Court with such a recommendation as may, in their judgment be fair to the people whom they represent. This then will necessarily end the delay as the Receivers have been unofficially reported to be in favor of re-opening the Bank and willing to do all in their power to help the colored people of this community. The issue is plain. Personal feeling and animosities should not figure in this matter. Let us re-open the Mechanics Savings Bank in order that those depositors who are ur- gently in need of some of their money may be able to get it and those who wish to deposit their savinés may be permitted so to do. The depositors stand pledged uut to make any run on the Bank Cther issues and conditions can be met as they are preseuted The primary purpose at this time is to do business again. Let us ascertain the approximate amount of liability, put up the assets necessary and with the aid and support of the good white people and the colf-sacrificing colored ones, backed by an abiding faith in the Almighty God, let us re-open the Bank. JOHN MITCHELL, JR. THE BLACK HEBREW vi IU AUK 4d 4 PICTURE OF CHRIST J i J LK PRICE $1.00 One of these Large Life Size Pictures should be in each and every Negro Home, Church, School-room, Lodge Hall and TMace of Business. Send all cash, money-orders or registered letters to the $. S. F.PICTURE COMPANY, 1251 27th Street, Newport News, Virginia 5000 AGENTS WANTED to handle these Pictures, but they must be recommended by an Ordained Minister in good standing in charge of some Church. Professor Farigoule had made great progress, and his pupils showed a dis tinct and impressive advance. One of these pupils, blindfolded was present: ed with letter-blocks, numerals ana colored skeins of wool. Holding i's hands up before them, he was able to ‘see’ them and name them. The specti ists present were permitted to impose any difficulties, to try any variations 80 as to convince themselves that no trickery was being employed. (There had been charges of a signalling sys. tem between the professor and his pu i's.) “The ests resisted all these efforts an the specialists, having themselves verified the genuineness of the unique performance they witnessed, at the end of the seance read'ly signed a testimonial crediting Professor Fart gole with the discovery of a real sclentific theory of great importance . Whe experiments in extra-retinal vis ion, being certified to by acknowledz el authorities. have now taken a grip on the public interest and the subject is at last receiving the publicity it muerits, PATIENTLY WAITING. ‘tAnd it being represented to the Court that the closing of said bank by te plaintiff was because of the presence in its assets of obligations of the Bonded Realty Company, Inc., amounting to the sum of $83,500.00, which are not secured to the satisfaction of the plaintiff and it being further repre- sented to the Court that there is a reasonable prospect of the defendant being able, within a short time, of satisfying the plaintiff as to said obligations of the Bonded Realty Company, Inc., and as to the entire solvency of said bank, it is fur- ther ordered that said receivers be authorized and instructed to report to the Court, at the earliest possible date, togeth- er with a statement of the assets and liabilities of said bank, such offers and plans as may be submitted to them by the defendants, or others on its behalf, with a view of satisfying the requirements of the plaintiff and effecting a prompt dis- charge of said receivers, and the return of the assets of said Mechanics' Savings Bank, of Richmond, Va. to its proper authorities.'' fae “Explaining his theory, Professor Farigoule declares that. extra-retinat vision involves the functioning of a serse until now ignored—what he ca!'s the paroptic sense. ‘This sense reposes in cells, discernible under the microscope in the skin. These celis he calls the ‘ocelles,’ veritable ‘eyes, rudimentary, microscopic, but complete.’ It is the training of these ‘ocelles' in the blind whictr results in something close to actual vision, Ask- cu what the blind may hope for from his exper.ments, Professor Farigoule said: ‘New York Times, May 24, 1923.) eanLOledE DANONE) Unnatural and mucous dis- charges can be avoided by de stroying the germs of infectious diseases, $1.10 at all druggists VIRGINIA—In the Clerk's Office ot the Circuit Court of the County of Chesterfield, the 18th Lay of May 1923. REBECCA ROSEMON, Plainuit vs. JOSEPH ROSEMON, Defendant. REBECCA ROSEMON, Plaintitt vs. JOSEPH ROSEMON, Defendant. ‘The object of this suit 1s to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony, by the Plaintif! from the Defendant, on the ground of desertion, And an affidavit having been made and filea that the defendant, Joseph Rosemon is not a resident of the State of Vir- ginia, it is ordered that he appear with in ten days after due publication of this order once a week for four suce?s sive weeks in the Richmond Planet, a newspaper published in the City ‘of Richmond and do what ,may be neces sary to protect his interest herein. ‘Teste: PHILIP V. COGBILL, A Copy Teste: Clerk. J. B. BYRD, f, ¢. ’ VIRGINIA:—In the Law and Equity Court of the City of Richmond, the 18th Day of May 1923. MOLLIE B. BUTTS, Plaintif against In Chancery, JAMES BUTTS, Defendant. The object of this suit fs to obtain an absolute divorce from the bond or matrimony, by the plaintiff from tho aefendant, on the ground of adultery. And an affidavit having heen made and filed that the defendant is not a rest. dent of the State of Virginia,, it is or dered that he appear here within ten days after due publication of this or. der and do what may be necessary to protect his interests herein. , A Copy, ‘Teste: LYTHER LIBBY. Clerk. J. E. BYRD, p. a. 1 "5 ) OTHER PEOPLE JUDGE YOU NOW BY YOUR FURNITURE! When you can get Furniture and Rugs from an Old Established house lke JURGENS—that’s known to sali the best quality goods, just as renson able as elsowhere—why not give your frends 4 good tmpression, It will givo us the greatest pleasure io show you our wonderful stock of home making, comfort giving Furniture and Rugs and—don't fail to ask our salesmen about our Banking Pi. which gives you 5, i0 or 15 months fn which to pay for aay purchase 6, 0 ESTABLISHED 1880. | ADAMS AND BROAD Loreto te toto toto tose te sory C. P. HAYES Successor to A. HAYES’ SONS FUNERAL DIRECTORS 727 N. SECOND STREET RESIDENCE, 735 N. SECOND ST. 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DWALEZ: IN FANCY GROCERIWS, FRESH MEATS, VEGETABLES, FISH AND OYSTERS, PHONE, MADISON 1687 FRANCE WILL HAVE LARGEST BLACK ARMY IN THE WORLD AS NEW MILITARY LAW GOES INTO OPERATION IN THE COLONIES SOLUTION TO THE JOLLY "M" WORD PUZZLE SIX French Youth Immeasurably Relieved By New Military Law, But African Natives Conscripted on Larger Scale. (Crusader News Service) Paris, May 31. — (By Mail) General de la Croix in Le Temps is perhaps the first military expert to draw attention to the paradox that, although the new French military law practically cuts the army in half by reducing the term of compulsory service from three years to eighteen months, the army numerically will not be much altered in France. Although it was known that the law abolished the old distinction between the European French army and the Colonial army, composed mainly of French volunteers serving in French overseas possessions and the purely African Army, it had not been observed to what this lack of distinction might lead—the amalgamation of the Algerian and other North African troops with the army in France, thus making up the former seventy-one infantry divisions, as they were before the law becomes operative and reduces them to sixty-four. The Colonial Army will also supply the garrisons in France with nine battalions of "machine-gun chasseurs", which will bring up the number of these battalions to twenty-three. In the same way the number of tank regiments is to be increased from fifteen to twenty-three. Hence, while the new law immeasurably relieves the youth of France from arduous and unpleasant military duty, it does not in the same proportion reduce the military strength of the country, since the colonial peoples are called in to bear the burden that is lifted from the shoulders of the French population. Although the law provides for a standing army in France with 500 colonies which must not exceed 550,000 the manipulation of the law will bring the army in France alone up to a total of 420,000 men. GARVEY'S COUNSEL QUITS. Withdraws When Defendant Choose to Conduct His Case Himself. The trial of Marcus Garvey, President of the Black Star Line and pro lector of other enterprises, and three of his business associates on an indictment charging use of the mails to defraud investors, had not fairly begun yesterday in Federal court before signs of disagreement between Garvey and C. W. McDougald his counsel, appeared. Shortly thereafter Mr. McDougald, with the consent of the court withdrew from the case. He explained that Garvey had expressed dissatisfaction with the way he was handling the case and had suggested taking charge of the defense, with Mr. McDougald acting merely in an advisory capacity. Garvey therefore was left to conduct his case alone. Leo H. Healy, counsel for the North American Steamship Corporation when Garvey bought the S. S. Yarmouth in 1919, testified that he had been impressed by Garvey's personality and had almost bought stock in the Black Star Line himself. A Negro real estate broker testified that Miss Amy Ashwood, who later married Garvey, had bought a house in West 131st street, making the initial payments in checks of the Black Star Line. Another witness was Joshua Cockburn a pilot, who had charge of the Yarmouth. He told of trips made by Yarmouth, when she was in poor repair, to China and the West Indies, with passengers and feet. During these trips he said, much of the stock of the line was sold to the passengers (New York Times May 23.) DECLARES PROHIBITION BENE FITS NEGROS MOST. (Preston News Service) Chicago, Ill., May 25.—According to a statement issued from the headquarters of the N. W. C. T. U. prohibition has done more to the American Negro than anything except freedom. Recently a survey was conducted by the Union Signal, the official organ of the Temperance Union in an effort to determine what effect prohibition had upon the Negroes of this country. It is reported that the survey brought hundreds of Fetters and that the most common answer was that next to freedom, prohibition has done more for the Negro than any other legislation or welfare movement. Get The Planet at your door every week for a year. Send $2 and the paper comes next week. THE RICHMOND PLANET. RIGHMOND. VIRGINIA OVER ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND NEGROES WENT NORTH IN LAST SIX MONTHS AS EXODUS FROM THE SOUTH GAINS NEW IMPETUS, SAYS BOARD Migrants Still Pouring North-Industrial Centers Attract Most Because of High Wages-Immigration Restrictions are Helping the Movement-Conference Boards Survey. (Crusader News Service.) New York May 31—The migration of Negro workers from the savage South to the industrial centres of the North has been closely investigated by the National Industrial Conference Board, 10 East 39th Street, this city, and in a statement yesterday the board says that in the last six months more than 100,000 Negroes left the South to military facilities for the North and its opportunities. "This movement has to a considerable extent been along vertical lines" the statement says. "Negroes from Georgia and the Carolines drifting North to the Atlantic seaboard states and New England; Negroes from Alabama and Tennessee moving northward in the Middle Western States, and Negroes from Louisiana, Tennessee and Arkansas finding new homes in the States further West. Speaking of the methods used to bring Negro workers North where the movement is not spontaneous (as it is in many cases), the Board finds that "two methods have been used in the main: First, employers have sent labor agent into the Southern States who, in turn, have employed local agents for the purpose of encouraging Negroes to move Northward with the hire of free transportation, steady employment and high wages. The Southern States have restricted the activities of these labor agents by placing large license fees upon their activities and in finding those who attempted to evade. In other cases, agents attempting to induce Negroes to leave have been driven out and threatened. The second method has been indirect employee solicitation by word of mouth or letter. Negroes already employed who have come from the South write voluntarily or are asked to write to their friends and relatives in the South. They describe the conditions and urge their friends to follow them to the North. This method is bringing thousands of Negroes almost daily into the indus trial centres of the North. The consequences of this movement, particularly from the cotton-raising States, have JOHN SMITH-GENERAL STORE QUICK SALES SMALL PROFITS MAY 26 AT GRAND THEATRE 10 AM-5 PM already raised the fears of Southern employers and planters he depend on an ample supply of Negro labor to get their work done." NO INSUPERABLE PROBLEM "On the other hand," the statement continues "the influx of Negroes into Northern communities has brought with it some very definite problems, the first of which is the relation of the white and Negro races. Observers of both races, however, who have been in close touch with the situation, believe that this is by no means an insuperable problem. The so-called race rios which have occurred in various places (two years ago) cannot be directly traced to industrial rivalry. In fact, the contrary seems to be the case. White and Negro labor of the same grade apparently work together peacefully. There is scarcely more friction between white and Negro than there is between native whites and immigrant whites. The Negro, only be cause he is more easily designated, be comes a target for jealousy, and suspicion. FIND THEM EFFICIENT. "The housing problem, however, is more real and most Northern cities have made no provision whatever for a Negro population, which, true to the instincts of any race, likes to congregate itself in districts by itself. Even in this respect, however, the Negro meets with less opposition from persons of bis own labor status than from whites of the somewhat higher labor grades. (Labor Aristocracy, petty bourgeoisie, etc.)" "When it comes to the efficiency of the Negro workman, opinions differ. A large employer writes as follows of the Negro workmen: "We have employed Negroes in our shops for a great many years. In looking back over their service record we find continuous service records of five years, ten years, fifteen years, twenty years, twenty-five years and even thirty years. These Negroes have faithfully, loyalty and honestly performed the service that was required of them. I have found that with proper supervision the colored man could not only do skilled work, but would also maintain a standard 02 quality and production as established in the shop."' "Another employer writes: 'We began employing Negroes in considerable numbers as recently as 1916. We have found them dependable and punctual. They lose no more time because of sickness—in fact, not as much—as the average white worker. We are convinced that he has the making of a man just the same as the average white man has if he is properly treated."' "On the other hand," says the report, "some employers have had an unsatisfactory experience. A large Eastern iron and steel establishment finds the Negro workers unsteady and unreliable, especially those without families. VIRGINIA:—In the Law and Equity Court of the City of Richmond, the 19th Day of May, 1923. BELLE CLARKE, plaintiff against In Chancery. CAMILLAS CLARKE Defendant. The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce from the bond of matrimony by the plaintiff, Belle Clarke, from the defendant, Cammillas Clarke upon the ground of desertion for more than three years; and an affidavit having been made and filed that the defendant, Cammillas Clarke, is not a resident of the State of Virginia it is ordered that he appear here within ten (10) days after due publication of this order and do what is necessary to protect his interest in this suit. A Copy, Teste: LUTHER LIBBY, Clerk GILES B. JACKSON, p. q. SAFETY FIRST! BIG CITY DAILY MURDER BLACK HAND MYSTERY SUICIDE THE FATHER OF OWNER GRATES A LOTS SCANDAL DIVORCE POISONED! BY BOOTLEG! KIDNAPPED BY BRANDITS KILLED IN NAZING SHOT WHILE PRAYING ROBBED WIRECK ANOTHER CRIME DOPED TO DEATH IT'S A GOOD THING THAT MOST OF US LIVE IN SMALL TOWNS! STRAIT-TEX HAIR TONIO Refining and Straightening Tonic for Fri- ky or Coarse, Stubborn Hair. 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JOHN --- We Print Any and Everything 'Print-able" ```markdown ``` --- 311 N. 4th St., THE RICHMOND PLANET. RICHMOND. VIRGINIA SEVEN ```markdown ``` NEWS AROUND RICHMOND --- EIGHT FULTON NOTES The services last Sunday at the McCalvary Baptist Church were excellent. Our pastor with the assistance of his Corp of Officers and judicious members are putting forth great efforts to finish paying for the church. Lot us not forget the services tomorrow, Sunday School 9:30 A. M. After the morning services we will proceed to the Baptismal waters over by the Government Road at 1 P. M. The evening being sacramental service, we are looking forward to a grand time with our many friends in the name of the Lord. Remember our weekly prayer meeting services every Wednesday evening 8:30 P. M. Last Sunday night the Rev. W. H. Jackson of Philadelphia, Pa., preached for us. He also spoke during the Sunday School services presided over by M'ss E. A. Logan the assistant Superintendent. Last Sunday the people of the First Baptist church. Bermuda Hundreds, had a joyful time. A powerful sermon was preached by the pastor Rev W. L. Tuck. After the morning services they entered into the Communion services which was served by the pastor. A good many friends of the Church were present including Rev Mrs. Alice Tuck and Rev C. B. Jefferson, Corresponding Secretary of Richmond Baptist Sunday School Union. At 8:30 P. M. the Nursery of the National Ideal Benefit Society Inc., held their 30 anniversary services at the church. Sermon by the Rev C. B. Jefferson. The program was in charge of the Matron. Mrs. J. Brown and the Counselor Mrs. M. Whitmore of Bermuda. After these services Rev. W. L. Tuck presented his resignation in order to take charge of the Grave! Hill Baptist Church. The members regretted very much to accept the same. The Deacon Board spoke in the highest terms of praise of the Reverend, especially Deacon E. Miller at whose home the Church prepared as the stopping place of Rev. Tuck while at the Hundreds. He will supply the pulpit for 90 days. A great time is anticipated at the termination of the Rally tomorrow at the New Vine Baptist church, Charles City, Co. Va. Rev. W. L. Tuck pastor. The regular Union meeting of the Richmond Baptist Sunday School Union which was scheduled to meet with the Union Level Baptist Sunday School June 3rd, has been changed to WISHING US WELL Norfolk, Va. May 13. 1923. Mr. Mitchell:— Dear friend and brother.—I wanted to write to you for a long time to let you know that my confidence in your has never been shaken. I have pleaded with my people to stand still and not get excited; that you had not stolen anything; that you would replace that which was out at the time. Mrs. Fannie Ash and I have talked it over and decided that it was one's fate especially, when we try to do right. Re member when Christ was here what they said of Him. So there will come a time in our life as christians, to face the crisis. I am praying for your acquittal and if the law will, give justice, it will be done. I remain. Yours truly, F. H. and L.. A BLACKSTONE REMINDER Blackstone, Va. May 14, 1923. Mr. Mitchell. Dear Sir and Bro.,—I am writing, you because I heard you were sick. Hope you are better now. I am asking you not to worry over what is on hand, but trust the Lord and He will make all things right. You shall have my prayers. From your friend indeed. J. L. ROYAL. MADISON STANFIELD SPEAKS Roanoke. Va.. Roanoke, Va. Sir John Mitchell, Jr. I was greatly relieved of no little burden when I read the proceedings and results of your trial last Tuesaan. I have always contended your fidelity and innocence of ever having wronged any man or men. I shall pray Gods favor upon you as the days go by, hop that all may be made clear and plain and that the innocent may not be caused to suffer further for the guilty. I hope to remain yours in F. C. and B. MADISON STANFIELD Franklin, Va. May 21, 1923. Mr. John Mitchell, Jr. 311 North 4th Street, Richmond, Virginia. Dear Brother:—I learned to love you when you came to our city upon one occasion when the two Lodges had violated laws of our Grand Lodge because you dealt with them honestly, fairly and just and I know it is not in you to do any other than to deal honestly and fairly with your fellow man. I am praying that all will soon be well with you, our hero again. My meet 3:30 P. M. at the Rising M. Ziou, Baptist Church. We thank the Rev. O. B. Simms, B. Tr., pastor for allowing us to meet at Zion though he had a short notice. Rev. C. B. Jefferson Corr. Sec., Miss E. A. Logan, Asst. Sec. THE Y. M. C. A. NOTES A very happy hour with the class for the explanation on the Sunday School Lesson last Saturday 5 P. M. Dr. W. H Stokes teacher. This was the closing for the season. Both teacher and members are delighted with the work that was done. A special program, paper, songs, and solos. The teacher was very kindly remembered by the members. His closing words were crowded with inspiration and all parted in one accord. Watch for the opening September 29th, 5 P. M. Saturday. Refreshments were served and all were satisfied. The Junior Bible class, senior and educational classes closed last Tuesday 5 P. M. The program was a very interesting one Certificates for school arship were awarded. A gold medal, first honor was given by Rev. A. D. Daly; a silver medal for second honor given by Dr. A. A. Tennant. Every heart was glad. Everybody in his place for services boys and men last Sunday. At the building 9:30 A. M. prayer services for the workers. A very helpful hour with the women of the penitentiary 10 A. M. Glad to have one of our members with us, Mr. G. T. Walker of the Second Baptist Church. The meeting in the City Home conducted by Chairman James Dunn 10 A. M. was enjoyed by all. Chairman Wim. Thomas was very mindful of the work in the City Jail. 1 P. M. at the building a large number of boys guttered and heard a very timely address by President R. P. Danier. Subject: Sowing and Reaping. Over the top for the Lorda a great Gospel meeting conducted by the Usa- rs Board of the 6th Mt. Zion baptist church. Chairman Straus knows jus- how to lead. His chorus sang from the soul. Come again. The Lord is pleased with such fellowship for Him. On time Sunday 9:30 A. M. at tra- Y. M. C. A. the workers. 4 P. M. the boys. 5:30 P. M. at the building the Lord has never lost a battle and He wont lose this because there are some of His own children praying the one prayer, for an honest just and square deal for you. We know full well you are innocent, of what your enemies have accused, but with that faith in the Almighty God, He will be lease you to be braver and stronger than ever before, or as long as your life lasts. With a praying race of the best folks of the same which I term as Gods army. I am yours commending you to Him in F. C. and B. —JOHN E. GARY. Charlotte C. H., Va. Mr. John Mitchell, Jr. My Dear Mr. Mitchell: I note with very deep regret that your request for a new rial has been denied you and I am writing to say that I trust you will have more favorable consideration when your case comes up before the Supreme Court. With renewed assu- ances of my sympathy, I am Fraternally yours, J. MURRAY JEFFRESS. R. W. G. L. A VOICE FROM ATLANTA GA. Hon. John Mitchell, Jr., Editor, Richmond Planet, Richmond, Va. My Dear Brother John—This is to express to you my most sincere sympathy and keenest regret in your unfortunate dilemma and to assure you of my unshaken confidence in your integrity. I cannot bring myself to believe that you have intentionally defrauded anybody—the verdict of the court to the contrary notwithstanding. I do not believe that you in your declining years, after having fought for the right of your people, and made the many sacrifices you have, and as dear as the bank of which you were the founder, was to you, that you would willfully, wickedly and criminally strike it down and defraud the people you have done so much to uplift. If I can assist you in any way, I shall be glad to do it. I am enclosing you a little check for $10.00, as an evidence of my sincerity. I do not know that you need it, but if you do, I shall be glad to do more. With the hope that you may in the end be vindicated and praying to that end, I am Yours very cordially. A VOICE FROM NEWPORT NEWS My Dear Friend:—I congratulate THE RICHMOND PLANET. RICHMOND. VIRGINIA The Baptist State Sunday School Union of Richmond, South Richmond and Vienna will meet with the Swans boro Sunday School Sunday, at 3:30 p.m. All Sunday Schools belonging to our district are asked to be present as election of official offices and ports of the last year's work will be made by the secretary. A very agreeable surprise was led on Mr. William E. Lewis, of 2519 Bainbridge Street, Southside, on last Wednesday night by his madam, Mrs. Lillie Lewis. The party gathered and enjoyed themselves until midnight and when the fact was announced that the gathering was celebrating his birthday, Mr. Lewis was struck as though by a lightning bolt from a clear sky. Refreshments were served and a fine evening was spent. Dr. H. G. Carter, superintendent of the Plediment Sanatorium, Burkeville, Va. will deliver an address at the St. Luke Auditorium, St. James and Baker streets, Sunday evening, June 10, at 5:00 P. M. His subject will be, "The Prevention and Cure of Tuberculosis." Dr. Carter is one of the greatest authorities on Tuberculosis in America and his address are marvels of thought along this and other health lines. The meeting is fostered by the Richmond Medical Society and the Negro Organization Society in the interest of erecting a chapel at the sanatorium. A musical program is also featured. JOHN MITCHELL, MAKES PLEA FOR REOPENING OF BANK Claims Mechanics' Savings Bank Never Was and Is Not Now Insolvent. "For ten years I have been traveling over the North and West pleading with the colored folks to come back home, back to the South and especially to Richmond where the colored man is well treated, and now they will come back and find John Mitchell, in the penitentiary." "It was different when John Mitchell wore a swallow tail coat and a high hat and was a candidate for Gov- ernor. Then the white folks kept my telephone ringing every five minutes but now the dog is dead," said John Mitchell, Jr. at a mass-meeting of colored people at Fifth Street Bapt- ist church last night. Claiming that his conviction was a national calamity and that the Mechanics Savings bank never was an is not now insolvent, Mitchell, appeal to the colored people of Richmond for support in his efforts to have the Dear Mr. Mitchell: I want you to know that your friends in Blackstone especially Evening Star Court are deeply concerned and interested in your welfare and extend you the deepest sympathy. For my part, I know of no one who has actually fought harder than you to righten affairs, nor one who has held up better than you under the awful strain. We hope your suffering and great humiliation may me crowned with success. I am praying for you Mr. Mitchell. Your friends are praying for you. May the angels of heaven comfort you. May He who is the only justice stay with you. Be strong, forgive the enemies; The Lord strengthen and keep you. Command me if there is any service in me. I am sure your friends every where are the same. Your friend and well-wisher, SHERMAN S. FURR A VOICE FROM PORTSMOUTH VA. Portsmouth, Va., May 28, 1923. Mr. John Mitchell, Jr., Richmond, Va. My Dear Brother:—I am writing to extend my deepest sympathy in this fiery trials, ever believing you will come out pure gold. It is not for the wrong you have done, but to crush a true noble spirit; rest assured that the Courts of Calanthe of Northside have unshaken confidence in you and we are continuing to pray that right will prevail, that you will come out victor, a stronger, more determined man to fight for right and God, will be pleased crown you with success and make you like Job, surrounded with more friends and His bourtiful band will supply all your needs. If there is any thing I can do to make your burdens lighter, you have only to speak. I have succeeded in keping Courts together. Only a few dropped out and we are praying that you may be as Daniel; tho in the Lion's den believe and trust the Lord and you will not be harmed. A WORD FROM PENNSYLFANIA Dear John:— I have discussed your case with your many friends here and throughout the State of Pennsylvania and I find them all to agree with me that none but a coward could or would commit the act that you are charged with and no man can say that John Mitchell, Jr. has a yellow streak or ever showed the white feather. We realize that you are in the clutches of your foes, but your friends who outnumber them, are unshaken in their confidence in your integrity and will so continue until the highest tribunal in the land says you are guilty which I hope will never be the gurity which --- janitors of the Federal Episcopal Bank will conduct a special gospel meeting for men. One of the officers will speak Be on time men for a good time. Come. Prayer is the only sure weapon Please do not forget the Y. M. C. A. OPERETTA. CINDERELLA IN FLOWERLAND Cinderella in Flowerland will be stage ed at the True. Reformers Hall Friday day night, June 5th. Characters: Cinder ella, Daisy, Evelyn Harris; Proud Sisters Hollyhock, Marjorie Circus, Tiger Lily, Marion. Page; Godmother Nature, Rosella Clarke; Bonnie Bee Page, George Brown, Jr.; Butterflies: Laverne and Geraldine Brown, Hermi- one and Sally Peyton, Robnette Jones Adelaide White, Mamie Fields, Joseph Hewlett; Robin Red, Princes Herald, Earnest Harris; Prince Sun shine of sunbeam Castle, Joe Circus; Guest at Bally: Pansy, Victoria Holmes Violet, Ethel Banks; Sweet Brier, Daphine Lee; Narcissus Inez B ning; Mignonette, Thelma Hill, But turp, Mary Smith; Daffodil, Editi Herdon; Lily Belle, Lillian Cumber land; Rose, Dorothy Patterson; Popy Virginia Bolden; Sweet Pea, Elizabeth Glenn. Sanbeams: Evelyn Swan. Lillian Swan. Nannie Coleman. Goldie Fields. Audrey Carter. Dorothy Mathews. Charlotte Jackson. Raindrops: Calvin Royal. James Johnson. Cooly Johnson. Edward Pollard Randolph Marks. Baby Johnson. Protague. Mary Johnson. General Admission 25 cents. Miss Marietta L. Chiles. Manager; Miss Marie Williams. Pianist; Mrs. Fannia Clarke. Assistant. --- In Memoriam. in loving remembrance of my dear Aunt Carrie White Pitchford, who de- parted this life three years ago. May 28. 1920. When crystal streams though endless. Flow over golden lands of sand. Where I some day expect to meet; And clasp my Auntie's hand. DOLLAR DAY ON SOUTHSIDE Dollar Day will be held at Second Baptist Church, South Richmond, at 3:30 Sunday. Extra special services. The pastor, Rev. E. E. Smith will address the meeting. Local talent will furnish the program. All are welcome. you on the fight you have been making for justice and fair play and I wish to assure you that I am numbered with an unknown large number of friends who are working both day and night to help you win in the end and up to this moment; we feel that you will overwhelmingly win. Keep praying, working and believing and read a part of the 37th chapter of the Psalms of David each day and have no fear of the outcome. Many friends know that you are innocent and that you are being charged for banking negligence that you were not guilty of and that others are responsible for, but their day is coming, don't worry and you will live to see it. My Dear Mr. Mitchell:—Permit me, one whose personal respect you always had, to express my deepest sympathy for you in this hour of trial with you. It seems to me unthinkable that you, after so many years useful, beneficial, and sacrificial service for your people would descent to perpretrate the glaring fraud of which you are accused. With me it is not believed to have been done as charged. It seems to me that you are a victim of your own friends for whom you have done the most. But there will be Judas Iscariot lots as long as humanity lives in its mortal state. Yours sincerely —GEO. A. MELVIN. A VOICE FROM CAPE CHARLES Cape Charles Va. May 30, 1923 Sir John Mitchell, Jr.. 311 North 4th Street, Richmond, Va. Dear Sir and Bro:—We the under- sign desire to write you a letter to let you know that we are in deep sym- pathy with you in your great terror you are going through, which we sin- cely believe is caused by sins of others. Knowing you as we have few many years and knowing you have stood for honesty, just and right, princi- ciples we will never believe if all the world of your enemies should falsely accuse you, that you ever had any other er motive than honest, just and right principle. We further believe and know that you are being tried as Jesus was. Not for your sins, but for the sins of oth- ers. We are praying that all may be well with you soon. Yours in F. C. and B.. SIR S. J. LOGAN. DR. D. W. PALMER. S. S. UNION WILL MEET. SURPRISED HIM A VOICEFROM BLACKSTONE. Blackstone, Va. Mar 15, 1981 Your sincere friend. JENNIE V. JACKSON 632 Worsham, St. Dapville, Va. Yours in F. H. and L., LUCY LOCKETT Philadelphia, Pa. May 23, 1923 bank reopened. Mitchell spoke for more than an hour to a crowd of over 1,000 colored people, who packed the church to capacity and who interrupted his remarks with frequent applause. He stated that for over two years he had paid the dividends of the institution out of his own pocket that for five years the institution had been harassed by the rulings of the state corporation commission. PROPERTY VALUE REDUCED In the final audit of the bank, no said the building with a value of $100,000 was listed at $45,000 and all other real estate given a proportionately reduced value. Loans and discounts were not mentioned at all, said Mitchell, with the result that the bank was insolvent to the extent of over $100,000. He said that efforts were being made to force the sale of the property at sacrifice and that if the stockholders would demand a fair examination of affairs the bank could be reopened within seven days' time. HAD PUT UP FUNDS Mitchell said that he had personally put up $100,000 in security to protect the stockholders of the bank, and that at no time had anything been proven against his honesty. He attributed the institution's difficulties to a banking system that few white men could understand and no colored man pretended to understand, and said that he had requested six prominent bankers on Main Street to sit on a commission that would examine the bank's affairs. Two of them had accepted the invitation. At the close of his speech a long set of resolutions were read and adopted providing for the appointment of a committee to confer with the receivers of the bank, and that counsel be authorized to communicate with the state corporation commission and the Chancery Court with a view to securing the reopening of the institution. The organization of defense clubs were provided for to raise funds to aid Mitchell in his appeal from the three-year sentence hanging over him, and the meeting went on record as having full faith in his honesty and integrity. (News Leader, May 26, 1983) COLORED CITIZENS SEEK RE OPENING OF MECHANICS BANK Twelve hundred colored citizens met in Fifth Street Baptist Church last night and adopted resolutions providing for the appointment of a committee to meet with receivers, and authorized counsel to confer with the State Corporation Commission and the Judge of the Chancery Court as to the proper steps necessary for the re-opening of the Mechanics Savings Bank. Faith in the integrity of John Mitchell, Jr., president of the Bank, who was recently sentenced was expressed and plans were made for the raising of a fund for his defense. (Bright) (16. Worland Va., Times Dispatch May 26. 1923.) I trust God will guide you to vindication and I pen you these lines of sympathy and confidence that they may enable you to press your battle to the end so that your foes may be made to weep instead of smile. I am as ever, Your friend, B. G. COLLIER. A VOICE FROM WEST VIRGINIA Hon. John Mitchell, Jr., Richmond, Virginia. Dear Sir and Brother:—Inclosed find check for two dollars, which pays my subscription to the "Planet." I have been following with a great deal of interest and anxiety, your case in the courts relative to the Bank. Permit me to say that my faith in your honesty and integrity is as strong now as it has ever been and you know it has always been very great. I notice that the case will be carried to a higher court and I hope that in it you will be vindicated. With kindest regards and best wishes, Sincerely yours, J. RUPERT JEFFERSON. A VOICE FROM RHODE ISLAND. SERGEANT MORRELL SPEAKS. Jamestown, R. I. My Dear Mr. Mitchell—Please find inclosed check for the continuation of my subscription to your paper. At the same time I wish to express to you deepest sympathy in this your hour of persecution, your reputation for square dealing and integrity in your community and in a wide area of these United States will refute the efforts of your traducers to defile and humilate the name of an honorable man. They cannot shake the confidence of those who know you and with regret their efforts to do so. I feel as confident of your vindication as if that fact had been already accomplished. Keep the faith and good courage, continue the fight as of yore victory is yours. A VOICE FROM SOUTH CAROLINA DR. JOHNSON SPEAKS. My Dear Sir:—I wish to extend to you my heart-felt and sincere sympathies in this hour of your trouble. I cannot believe that you are consciously guilty of any wrong doing in the matter. I have noted for years your splendid services in behalf of our people; and now it does seem too sad to realize that your enemies have for a time at least the advantage of your Martyrs have beaten many a pathway If so, call and see L. J. HAYDEN, Manufacturer of Pure Herb Medicines 220 W. Broad Street. My medicines will relieve you, or no charge, no matter what your disease, sickness or affliction may be, and restore you to perfect health. I use nothing but herbs, roots; barks; gum; balsam leaves; seed; berries; flowers and plants in my medicines. They have relieved thousands that have given up to die. MY MEDICINES CURE THE FOLLOWING DISEASES: Heart Disease, Blood, Kidney, Bladder; Piles in any form; Vertigo; Quinny; Sore Throat; Dyspepsia; Indigestion; Constipation; Rheumatism in any form; pains and aches of any kind, Colds, Bronchial troubles; Skin Diseases; all Itching Sensations; Female Complaints, LaGrippie, Pneumonia; Ulcer; Carbuncles; Boils; Cancer in its worst form without use of knife or instrument; Eczema Pimples on face and body, Diabetes of Kidneys, Bright's Disease of Kidneys. My medicines relieve any disease, no matter what nature, or your money refunded. Medicines sent anywhere. For full particulars, write, send or call on L. J. HAYDEN, 220 West Broad Street. W. I. JOHNSON'S SONS, INC. FUNERAL DIRECTORS, EMBALMERS WEST LEIGH STREET HIGHMONT, NURGHT Prompt Service. Orders in or out of the city solicited. The Finest Caskets and the Cheapest furnished on short notice. Marriages and Social Functions Also a Specialty. Richmond, Va. July 8, 1915. A perfect cure has been effected by L. J. Hayden's Pure Herb Medicine. After waiting thirteen years and have not suffered from the horrible disease, Gravel, I desire to make a statement to L. J. Hayden. Thirteen years ago twelve leading physicians of my city treated me for Kidney trouble and gravel without the desired benefit. These doctors advised me to be operated on, as that was the only chance for me. I was advised to go and get some of L. J. Hayden's Herb Medicine and try to cure being operated on. I did so, and in twenty four hours after using his medicines I passed at least a half dozen gravel, some as big as a large pea. Since that time I have not suffered with the gravel. I highly recommend L. J. Hayden's medicine to all suffering humanity. I am. J. A. PAGE. 4 Auburn Ave., Richmond Va. W. I. JOHNSON FUNERAL DIRECTOR 10 WEST LEIGH STREET, Prompt Service. Orders in or out Caskets and the Cheapest Marriages and Social Fun DAY OR NIGHT SERVICE to the tops of glory and from the soft moistened with their blood have grown fruits which fed the hearts and enriched the lives of countless heroes throughout the ages. Such, I believe is your destiny and I trust that Heaven may give you the grace and grit to bear it nobly, and smile through your tears until "the morning dawneth." New York, N. 7 May $1.10 Gen. Jno. Mitchell Jr., Richmond, Va. My Dear John:—May I assure you of my deep sympathy in your recent struggles and misfortunes which have befallen you. I want to assure you that I am sure that you are absolutely innocent of any intention of doing anything that was wrong concerning the Mechanies Savings Bank, for I voted for you as G. C., of Virginia many years ago. I have held you in high esteem for many years and want you to know that my admiration and faith in you are still unshaken. May the good Lord bless you in com- ing out all right in this ordeal. Yours in F. C. and B.. COL. W. H. POLLARD. Formerly of Richmond but now of 2089 Madison Avenue, New York City. Martinsburg, W. Va., May 20 1923. Hen. John Mitchell, Jr. Editor The Planet, Richmond, Va. My Dear Friend:—I want you to fully realize that at no time have I lost confidence in your honesty. Courts don't always apply the Golden Rule, but I feel almost confident that the Supreme Court of Virginia will take care of you. However, whatever may be the res- ult—if against you I shall go to my grave loving you and believing you an innocent man. With best wishes, I Ever and forever yours. J. B. CLIFFORD P. S. Have thought and talked about you so much and would have written you are this, but an old soldier up in the seventies and not being well for weeks is my excuse. God bless you. Boston, Mass... May 20, 1922. John Mitchell, Jr. It is with both pleasure and solemnity that I pen this in praise of your great worth and uncompromising labor for those in the south supposed to be free but as yet part free, but mostly enslaved. You have ever been their brave and courageous champion and come what may they will recognize you as such. At present they feel you are a martyr having dared to assert your right as an American citizen and you for them are made to suffer, but come what may dear one, your true friends cannot be fooled and they will stand by you to the limit for they still believe you true and honest The . I was cured of a very bad case of Rheumatism by two bottles of L. J. Hayden's wonderful Herb Medicine, after suffering a long time with the dreadful disease. I was unable to move hand or foot, and after I had taken three doses of the medicine I was able to get out of my bed and walk across the floor, and only two bottles of the medicine has made me a perfectly well man in every respect. I cannot give Mr. L. J. Hayden too much praise for what he other suffering ones to him, and they have also gotten cured. My daughter was also cured of Rheumatism and Indigestion by Mr. J. Hayden's Herb Medicines No. 232 W. Broad Street, Richmond, Va. I recommend Mr. L. J. Hayden as one of the greatest healers of the sick on earth. Respectfully. J. D. TAYLOR. 2419 E. Grace St., Richmond Va. N'S SONS, INC. ERS, EMBALMERS RICHMOND, VIRGINIA of the city solicited. The Finest furnished on short notice. actions Also a Specialty. PHONE MADISON 686 writer not unlike yourself was once a native of your city but when in 1888 he saw that real freedom could not be obtained in the South, left it and live or die, sink or swim, survive or perish he will never return. So God bless you brother Mitchell and may you defeat your enemies at though it may be a Herculean task. Yours truly. H. C. BRUNO. F. I. I eat the candy stand at and road streets when a boy. Fitzklin, Va. May 20, 1923 Hon. John Mitchell Jr. 311 North 4th Street Richmond, Va. Dear Sir and Brother:—It is with regret that I have to write you just a few lines of cheer in this your hours of trouble. Let me say to you that I have spent sleepless nights since your trials began, but God is not dead, neither is he asleep in due time will He set you free from this worry, which we are rusting will be at the next session of the Supreme Court. I go to God for you with many prayers and tear dimmed eyes. Your enemies in a few days will be crushed to the walls, because they are trying to kill one of the best men of our race what I would term as the cream of the race. I shall ever believe in your honesty and integrity as a man. God is with you and behind you stands the best of the Negro race for your early ease of mind. Be strong, hold on and fear not for He who holds the destiny of the world in His hand will hold John Mitch ell clear to the world as one striving to uplift the fallen of our people. With prayers going up to Him who rules and super-rules. I am yours for a hasty relief in F. C. and B. W. W. URQUHART. Columbia, S. C., May 16, 1923. Hon. John Mitchell, Jr. Hon. John Mitchell, Jr. Though in far-away South Carolina I have been praying to God and writing my influential friends in Richmond in your behalf. So when I read the Times-Dispatch this morning and saw where you will have another chance I praised God, "from whom all blessings flow." To my mind there is either a Negro or white man in the woodpile. Is it possible that a set of jurors would be discharged over night, return the next morning, possibly after roaming the streets and return a verdict of guilty? God is not dead, though justice sleeps. I am still hopeful that things may be settled amicably and if needs be as you have well said, that you go shoeless and clothless to satisfy the depositors and other claims. And as a depositor I would rather see you in that condition than to see you deprived of your freedom and liberty. May God help others to see it in this light and start as once to assist in its consummation Yours for a square deal. (REV.) W. H. SKIPWITH ---