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Unity House,

Euston Road. London. N.W. 1.

13th October, 1919.

This being the first occasion on which I have ever addressed a message through the "Locomotive Journal," it is fitting that it should be to express my heartfelt and sincere thanks to every member of the A.S.L.E. & F. for the magnificent spirit of comradeship and loyalty displayed in the struggle through which we have just emerged so successfully.

The battle was not only for railwaymen. It was for Labour throughout the whole country, but it was the railwaymen who had to bear the brunt of the blow, and right well they did it. But to me, however, the outstanding feature was that, in spite of the differences between our Unions in the past, when the struggle came all these differences were swept aside, and only the principle was considered. I, as a locomotiveman, am proud of every driver, fireman, and cleaner in the country. They had nothing to gain in the fight, but everything to lose. Nothing can ever wipe the memory of this out, and it has certainly linked us closer than ever before.

Allow me also to congratulate your Executive Committee on the bold stand they took all through; although not involved, they never feared the result. Also, of your General Secretary. Mr. Bromley, I would say that he proved to myself a loyal partner, never once attempting to interfere, never once doubting the course taken, but always at my side, merely asking what he could do and how best it could be done. Just as you ought to be proud of your own part, it should also be some consolation to know that I am equally proud of you. That the other grades of the railway service will always appreciate your action, and if needs be show it in an equally practical manner, is the sincere belief and wish of

Yours fraternally,

J. H. Thomas.