The G.N.R. had inflicted several dismissals, and all companies were doing their utmost to discourage orphan funds. Wages were reduced by 4s. to 6s. weekly, firemen receiving 3s. 6d. for twelve hours service, which actually meant 14 to 16 hours; branch engine drivers received 5s. daily for twelve hours, third class goods men 5s. 6d., and higher classed drivers had sixpence an hour for main line work. Let us come now to the spirit prevailing amongst the men. A Protection Fund was mooted, to which drivers would contribute 1½d. weekly and firemen three-farthings. "Shame," said one, "it ought to have been as many shillings. We should be contributing five and six times as much to the company in lost wages. Mechanics, who get 32s, weekly, are paying one pound quarterly to their union." The G.W.R., the G.N.R., and the North Eastern had already convinced railwaymen of the necessity of a protection fund as well as friendly society benefits. The Taff Vale line was returning eleven per cent. profit and paying drivers 5d. to 7½d. an hour. Firemen and cleaners were sent out on seventy miles journeys with passenger trains, and several moves of this kind stung the men to action. In December of 1879 it had been resolved to form a National Society of Drivers and Firemen.
The real and visible life of the A.S.L.E. & F, as a motive force in the railway world begins with the following historic letter, which is framed and has a place of honour at the Head Office:—
York Place,Griffithstown, Newport,February 9th, 1880.Mr. William Ullyott.
My Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 5th instant to Mr. E. Evans was handed to me on the 8th instant, with directions from our committee to answer it. I am sorry it could not have been done before, as all letters have to be laid before the committee. Trusting this explanation of our seeming negligence will be satisfactory. You will allow me in the name of our men to congratulate you on
