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THE GREAT AMERICAN CANALS

were also generally inclined to the adoption of adequate measures of relief; but the question which arose now was concerning the manner in which the relief should be given. Two ways were open: the state bonds could be placed in the hands of the commissioner of loans and be sold at par, and the proceeds paid over to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company; or, the bonds could be delivered to the president and directors of the company and sold by them at par, or be exchanged at their nominal value for the evidences of debt of the company. Apparently, there was no substantial difference between these two propositions, but, because of the views and feelings that originated and entered into the controversy, a broad line of distinction was drawn between the two plans. Each had its advocates and the supporters of each were equally immovable—consequently the legislature adjourned without making any appropriation at all. In this emergency the company took into consideration the course most proper to be adopted in regard to continuing the work on the canal. When called upon to