U.S. Fails in Move To Curb Protesters
by Paul W. Valentine
Washington Post Staff Writer

Concerned with the current upsurge in Impeach-Nixon and other demonstrations planned near the White House, the government yesterday unsuccessfully sought to block a recent court order enlarging the maximum number of demionstrators permitted in the area.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals refused to stay the effect of a lower court order issued last Aug. 28, raising the permissable limits from 100 to 500 demonstraors on the sidewalk in front of the White House; and from 500 to 3,000 demonstrators in adjacent Lafayette Park.

Acting on an urgent note, the the U.S. Attorney's office here in concurrence with the Secret Service cited a half-dozen assorted protests and demonstrations scheduled near the White House today and Sunday.

It asked that an Aug. 28 order, issued by District Judge - George L. Hart, be stayed pending a full appeal by the government.

Failing at the Court of Appeals level yesterday, spokesmen said early last night the government was still considering an emergency appeal to the Supreme Court, "but the crush of other events" made such a move unlikely.

Two major demonstrations are scheduled today:

A rally and teachin sponsored by the committee to Impeach President Nixon starting at 11a.m. at the Ellipse fo;;owed by a march around Lafayette Park and a possible silent vigil lasting until 4 p.m. Organizers expect 5,000 participants.

Daylong leaflet distribution and talk session on the WHite House sidewalk sponsored by the Washington Area Impeachment Coalition. Up to 500 persons expected.

On Sunday afternoon, workers for the Divine Light Mission, the organization of the 15-year-old "perfect master" Guru Maharaj Ji, say some 15,000 persons will attend a "Soul Rush" concert at the Sylvan Theater followed by a night-time candle light "procession of peace" of up to 3,000 followers to Lafayette Park. Rennie Davis, veteran anti-war leader and now a divine light convert, will be on hand.

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