Remarks to a Committee of Working Women

I need not tell you that a group of women like this appeals to me very deeply indeed. I do not have to tell you what my feelings are, but I have already explained,--because I felt obliged to explain,--the limitations that are laid upon me as the leader of a party. Until the party as such has considered a matter of this very supreme importance and taken its position, I am not at liberty to speak for it; and yet I am not at liberty to speak as an individual, for I am not an individual. As you see, I either speak to it in a message as you suggest or I do not speak at all. That is the limitation I am under and all I can say to you ladies is that the strength of your agitation in this matter undoubtedly will make a profound impression.