Henry B. Thompson to Woodrow Wilson

In the old Princeton days you have invariably been patient with me in listening to advice. Considering our changed relationship, the use of the word advice now would sound almost as an impertinence. Nevertheless, I feel that a crisis has been reached on which I ought to give you my opinion.
The question of your signing or not signing the Sundry Civil Appropriation Act which contains the rider exempting labor unions and farmer's associations from the provoisions of the Sherman Act has given me real anxiety.
I know that I voice the sentiments of hundreds of your friends who have as high appreciation of and admiration for you as I have, and have the welfare of your administration sincerely at heart, when I say that the approval of the bill on your part would be a source of profound sorrow to them. I am aware of the difficult situation in which you are placed, of the political exigencies and political interests, of the danger of a divided party, and all that; nevertheless, in the last analysis and stripped of all collateral issues the principle embodied in the rider is inimical to our form of government.
I have been all my life in close touch with labor and have a sincere sympathy with their ideals, and I believe in my association with them I have commanded their respect, and with this knowledge I cannot feel it is to their interest to have such exemption offered. It will result in class feeling that is injurious to both employer and employee.
I know you will appreciate that my high regard for you and my old friendship is my only warrant for intruding in such a matter.