City officials were defended against the charge of being bribe takers and their inaction was attributed to their desire to do favors and pose as "good fellows" in an address by Miss Jane Addams at the memorial meeting of the Teachers' federation at Fullerton hall yesterday morning.
"People have a disposition not to give offense," declared Miss Addams, "and in fear of being considered priggish and not a 'good fellow' they pass things by, overlook evils and violations of law which should not be overlooked. I do not believe that the city officials are bribed, but they neglect to enforce the law because they want to do a favor, want to be considered 'good fellows.'
"Perhaps this stern lesson of the Iroquois fire given by a stern teacher will be remembered. Kindliness in a loose good nature is the cause of the present lawlessness.
"Men should not allow personal influence or personal good nature to stand in the way of duty. While this city is still in its present mood and is showing the keen interest manifest everywhere in the enforcement of law, we should draw lessons from the terrible disaster to guide us in the future."
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