CALL AUTO LEAGUE A FRAUD.

The New York Times
August 4, 1916

Postal Authorities Act on Complaint of Advertising Clubs.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 3.—As the result of an investigation which it conducted at the request of the Associated Advertising Clubs of the World, in their campaign for "truth in advertising," the Post Office Department today issued a fraud order against the International Automobile League, Inc.; the International Automobile League Tire Company of Buffalo, and A. C. Bidwell, President of both concerns.

The request for investigation was made to the Post Office Department by Merle Sidener of Indianapolis, Chairman of the National Vigilance Committee of the clubs. Post Office department records show Bidwell had been had been indicted by a Federal Grand Jury at Rochester, charged with using the mails to further a scheme to defraud, and that he and two agents have been indicted in Fayette County, Pa.

The fraud order is also based upon a series of acts held to be illegal and with intent to defraud. Post Office officials say the promoters realized a large amount.