Matter of Application of Martin

Upon the application of Fred J. Martin a writ of habeas corpus was issued by this court. Martin had been arrested upon a charge of violating the terms of a statute entitled “An act regulating the hours of employment in underground mines and in smelting and reduction works” (Stats. 1909, c. 181, p. 279), approved March 10, 1909. The provisions of the act are as follows:—

“Section 1. That the period of employment for all persons who are employed or engaged in work in underground mines in search of minerals, whether base or precious, or who are engaged in such underground mines for other…