of Governor Herbert R, O'Conor 9

the almshouses do not reflect credit upon Maryland, and it is my determination
to give attention to this situation so that needed improvement may be effected.

We know from history, as well as from our own observation, that the part
played by government in the personal affairs of each individual has steadily
increased since the founding of this State and this Country. This could not
be otherwise unless government failed to keep pace with the complicated condi-
tions arising from the changes in our rural and urban life. The increase in
our population, the concentration of large numbers in our cities and the de-
velopment of industries with the consequent specialization of effort have made
us more dependent one upon the other. These developments have created social
problems requiring the aid of government in their solution so that the life of
the State and Nation can proceed harmoniously with due regard for the con-
flicting interests and rights of the many classes of our people.

The growth of social legislation representing, as I believe it does, the
crystallized judgment and the political philosophy of the majority of our
citizens, does not represent in any true sense a departure from the principles
of individual liberty upon which our State was founded. Rather it illustrates
the ability of a Democratic government to grow with, and foster the develop-
ment of, civilized society. It is proper that you should know that I favor such
sound, progressive legislation.

Four primary social needs must be driven "line abreast" under the rein
of economy and the spur of efficiency in a State worthy of the name. These
are: (1) Law and Order; (2) Public Health; (3) Roads and other means of
transportation; and (4) Education.

Law and order comes first because without public order none of the
other necessities can be realized. Safety from physical violence is, however,
but one form of safety. Forward-looking health policies are as necessary as
police regulations in combating menaces to health. Without enforcement of
sound health regulations, life in a modern State would be tragically insecure.
We look to modern science and sanitation to provide a defensive wall of pro-
tection. Without good roads and highways and opportunities of transportation,
the proper standard of living cannot be maintained. Finally, popular education
is based upon the belief that enduring social and business organizations and
good government depend upon the participation of an intelligent citizenship and
that popular education will, undoubtedly, raise the level of intelligence and
improve living conditions.

Under all these headings occur matters of detail, but of very important
detail. In connection with the maintenance of law and order we must not give
exclusive attention to capturing and jailing offenders. We must not fail to
take advantage of opportunities through a properly organized parole system
to reclaim worthwhile characters. Not only will there be a saving from an
economic standpoint, but potential criminals may be turned into law-abiding
citizens if the proper supervision, counsel and assistance are given by the State
when there is the opportunity and basis for so doing.

Through the intelligent administration of a well-organized and adequately
staffed parole system, unlimited possibilities present themselves in the effort
to reduce crime. A definite reduction in crime is assured if we reduce the
number of criminals. Experience has shown that the number of criminals can
be reduced if the State proceeds along well-directed lines in the study of the