Fight In Conference

AYnshington, July. 12.- Tlie flght in conference over lumber is understooa to be the sharpest conlroversy that lias been thus far developed. Every effert has been made to keep the matter secret, but it is understood that aiï of the conferees except one Michigan senator have abandoned the $2 rate, and are only dlvided as between 1 and a coinpromise rate of $1.50. At present the draft of the best opinión is toward au ultímate decisión in favor of $1.50. Congressman Crump today laid before the conference number of protests received by him against placing cedar fence posts on the free list. The petitioners assert tlmt the actioa taken by the senato was dictated by the railroads who want tenee posts, telegraph pules. rallroad ties, etc, fïee of luty. Cougressman Snover UMde au urgent ap:i-;il to the conference cc-nwHittee to place stave and shingle bolts ou tlie iree list. It is hardly likely tiiat any changes will bc made in those iu';visions of the bill uot in dispute beteen the two houses.