“The best possible regulation of rates would, of course, be that regulation secured by honest agreement among the railroads themselves to carry out the law.... The power vested in the Government to put a stop to agreements to the detriment of the public should, in my judgment, be accompanied by power to permit, under specified conditions and careful supervision, agreements clearly in the interest of the public.... But the vitally important power is the power to fix a given maximum rate, which, after the lapse of a reasonable time, goes into full effect, subject to review by the courts.” The President further says: “I urge upon the Congress the need of providing for expeditious action.... The history of the cases litigated under the present commerce act shows that its efficacy has been to a great degree destroyed by the weapon of delay, almost the most formidable weapon in the hands of those whose purpose it is to violate the law.” A summary of the principal provisions in some of the rate bills that have been brought before Congress will illustrate the various methods proposed for the better control of railroads. The Dolliver Bill provides that, when the Interstate Commerce Commission, after full hearing upon complaint, is of the opinion that a rate is unjust, unreasonable, or unduly discriminatory, it shall fix a just and reasonable maximum rate to go into effect 30 days after notice. The power applies to joint rates, fares, and charges, as well as to those within a railroad system. Broad provision is also made to cover the fixing of mileage rates, car rentals, etc. The Commission may order a carrier to cease and desist from any regulation and practice found to be unjust, unreasonable, or unduly discriminatory. All orders are to go into effect 30 days after notice unless the Commission extends the time to 60 days, or the order has been suspended or modified either by the Commission or by decree of a competent court. A penalty of $5,000 for each day an order is disobeyed, and for each separate offence, is provided for against any carrier, officer, representative, or agent who knowingly fails or neglects to obey any order as aforesaid; and the Commission may also apply to the Circuit Court for injunction, or other proper process, to compel obedience. Appeal may be taken to the Supreme Court. Railroads must give 10 days’ public notice of advances in rates, and 3 days’ notice of reductions, but the Commission may in its discretion allow changes on less notice.