Independent Democrat. [volume] (Canton, Miss.) 1842-1844, 1842-11-05
From the Washington City Spectator.
PRINCIPLES AND MEN.

ITOm Tue w umtHSGON OHy OPSes~so''
PRINCIPLES AND MEN.
We see much exultation expressed by
the anti-popular party at a fancied prospect
of disunion in the democratic ranks. II is
even spoken of as an inevitable result. 1t
is felt to be the onl y method of securing the
triumph of principles obnoxious to the peo-
pie. FdS est dG hOSte dOceri.
Although we cannot separate the ques-
ton of men from that of principles, we val
ue the former, politically speaking, only as
representatives of the latter. Whatever
may be our personal preference, we hold
them subordinate 10 the cause which we
advocate. If the Presidency were mere
ly personal question, we might consult our
hearts; as its object is higher, we must be
governed by our reason. The only way
to secure and perpetuate the ascendency OF
democratic principles, which are those of
order and liberty, is to concentrate our for
ccs. Without this, we may and will be
beaten by inferior numbers. This our en-
emies feel, and are artfully endeavoring to
SOW division in our ranks, Divide and
conquer, is their motto. Having no con-
fdence in their own strength with the peo-
pie, they would turn our invincible arms a.
gainst ourselves. To defeat this subtle
purpose, and to compass our own wise and
honest ends, there is no legitimate, or, in
deed, practicable method, but to abide by
the fair decision of convention fresh from
the ranks of the people. individual pref
erences are moi held subordinate to the
general wish or welfare, nothing can be ac-
complshed. This is experienced in all
human affairs requiring concurrent action,
which demand previous consultation, effect
i've organization, and an authoritative de.
csion.
Fortunately, the Democratic party has
more than one man of honorable charac-
Ter and sound principles, worthy, now or
hereafter, of the highest mark of popular
confidence. II fairly and frankly cho-
sen, in accordance with tho time-honorcd
and well-tried usages of our party, who
ever among its worthy leaders is thus de-
signated, shall command our cordial SUM-
port.
We are happy 10 know, from no small
Of observation and consulta-
ton, that such are the general feelings
and determination which pervade the Re-
publican ranks, including the gentlemen
to whom popular attention has been d.
rected as candidates for the highest office
in the gift of the people. Not one of
them will permit personal views to defeat
or rather hazard the principles and pur-
pose to which they all are pledged. The
fate OF those prominent men who have
been seduced by ambition from the path
of political recttude, is a beacon for the
future. Personal schism has been from
the beginning, and will always be, politi.
cal suicide. 1t may crafty revenge, or
soothe disappointment, but it is ever most
fatal to ITSELF The vindictive satisfaction
is short-lived; the stain which il leaves is
indeible. The shore is strewn with such
wrecks; the beach is white with the skeIe-
tons of unfieshed ambition. Popular ia
vorItes, dazzled by prosperity which they
deem self-created and sustained, have Of
ten, like the builders of Babel, sought 10
reach the clouds by their own efforts.
They have boon invariably foiIed in their
projects, and the monuments of their folly
remain objec of public derision or aver
sion. 1t would be painful, indeed, to wit
ness new examples of political selfde-
But we have no such appre-
tensions. We have reason to know what.
indeed, we should have inferred from their
characters, that the Republican leaders
will chcerfuIIy abide the decision of a
popular convention, if fairly chosen, and
lis sense honestly ascertained.
The only question, then, is that of time.
We have been in favor of period imme-
lately succeeding the election of men,
oers Of the next Congress. If however,
he rally of our indefatigable opponents
Ipon single candidate, shall be found TO
give their organization and designs de-
;ided superiority, it may become necessa-
~ to anticipate the period designated.
This, we think, should be matter of con-
'ultation with our friends, with whose de-
;ision we have not the presumption to in
erfere. Our only intention was TO an
bounce our own determination in the most
manner, and to impress upon
Ill, the policy, the absolute necessity. of
which can only be secured bv
previous consultation and authoritative de-
;ision, in accordance with the old and
usages of the Democratic par
y. This must be obvious TO all who pre-
er the triumph of principles to that of
nen, or a man, which would be equally
without the means indicated
A GOOD PLAN FOR BOILING IRISH PoTA-
roEs.-Put them IN boiling water and