NP, WJ 10/27/1863

From the Wilmington Journal
 
October 27, 1863
 
To the Stockholders W. & W. R. R. Co.:  {Wilmington & Weldon RR}
Gentlemen,
   As your Annual Meeting is approximating, I beg to call your attention to a subject of ve4y grave importance to a class of persons closely connected with and dependent upon you -- your employees. Since the war commenced, only a small increase of wages and salaries has been made. During that time, the cost of living has very greatly increased; so much so, that now ten dollars will not buy as much Bacon, Meal, and plain clothes as one dollar would have purchased in 1860. The probability is that all articles of necessity will greatly advance in price during the next twelve months. If your employees were only able to support their families and lay by a small amount for "a rainy day: previous to the war, what will become of them during the coming year, if their pay is not increased? I see from the Journal that your dividend this year has been very large. The probability is that they will be at least as large the coming year. Many of your employees are sacrificing health, and some of them daily risking their lives. Most of them have dependent families. Their claims are strong -- their wants urgent. I have no doubt your Board of Directors have, and will have every disposition to make a liberal increase of pay, but they may have some doubts as to your approval. Will you not take such action at your next meeting as will remove all doubt? Such is the prayer of one who knows and feels the necessity.
An Employee

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