LABOUR IN MADRAS 147 SUFFERING AND DISCIPLINE The Tramwaymen's suffering is intense. Because the Union is there, because they are banded together, because they are a well-disciplined organized body, do not think that they are without suffering. The men may not speak, they may not make themselves obnoxious, they may not show signs of displeasure or irritation or impatience because morning and evening men like Mr. Kumarswami Chetty go there to explain, keep them under control, check, persuade and show them what their duty is. What would have been the condition without this Union it is difficult for me to conjecture. I do not think that these more than thousand men could have kept themselves quiet and peaceful citizens, showing an indomitable spirit and a courage and perseverance without a Union. That is a point which you have to bear in mind, the good side of the Union in spite of Mr Powell and Sir Clement Simpson. If there had been no Union, there would have been looting in the city. But for it there would have been undesirable expressions of the impatience and irritation of the men. For, remember, even Indian crowds are made up of human beings with some feelings. If we have them under control, if we bave persuaded them to behave like gentlemen, it goes to the credit of the Indian temperament. I challenge Mr. Powell to hold one thousand Englishmen in the condition which he has imposed on the Tramwaymen of Madras. (Cheers.) It would not be possible for him. Mr. Powell would have been sent about his business if he were in England. (Laughter). It is not a matter for laughter. Come with me during the morning and evening, and see what the intense suffering of these people is. Then you will
