The New York herald. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1840-1920, 1848-02-10

FREE Observation-Disclosures FOR THE Pre-
sIDKNcY-Both the leading journals at Washing
ton-the Inteiiigencer and the Union-complain
of the respective journals and factions in New
York, belonging to each party, on account of
their discussions, discussions, and dispositions
upon the subject of candidates for the next presi.
dency.
The hteiligencer gives great credit to the
talent and enterprise OF the wing press, but
thinks they exhibit great want of tact aud sound
discretion in entering upon discussions upon the
prospects and merits of Mr.. Clay and General
Taylor. The Union, in similar strain,
thinks very highly of the vote of New York, and
of its weight in deciding the next presidency,
but takes to task the democracy of this State,
for its quarreling, its contentious, and discus
sions upon different party matters.
The ideas entertained by the journals of Wash
ing'on of the management of newspapers, must
be very different from that which prevails in such
spirit-stirring, populous place as this city,
or this State. In Washington, every move
ment Of both parties must be carried on
in secresy and intrigue, with deception and
falsehood, an affectation Of gentlemanly man
ners, but with Intentional dupery. The con-
tests between the two sections of the whig party
In Washington, hardly break out into open day
there, because Washington is not the place for
liberal discussion or manly freedom of debate,
unless it be on the broad party grounds. These
remarks will also apply to the democracy there,
as regards the candidates for succession to Mr..
Polk.
In fact, the freedom of the press, breaking
forth out of the shackles of party despotism, can
only be practically displayed in great and popu-
lous cities and States such as New York. But
this freedom is one of the greatest benefits and
advantages Of journalism in free country.
The whole question between Mr. Clay and Gen.
Taylor-the merits of the different candidates
the probabilities of success--wll be fully discus
sed, settled, and determined upon, and the
public mind enlightened, by the Independent
New York press, long before the conven-
ton meets in Philadelphia. Such course
of discussion is, no doubt, of great ad-
vantage in free country, and in large
populous region, however disagreeable it
may be to the little cliques of a narrow place,
such as Washington, or to the leaders offactions
and lotteries. 1t is manifestly absurd and ridicu-
lous to witness the dignity and gravity of the
Washington journals, when they plume them
selves upon their superior dignity over the New
York press. They live entirely by pap; they are
paupers upon the public purse they are des
titute of all spirit and enterprise; yet they
have the impertinence and folly to set them
selves up, as advisers and censors, above jour
nails whose circulation and influence is ten
times that of theirs.
We say to the independent press of all parties,
60 on and discuss the merits of the candidates.
We will back you. Do not submit to any cliques.
Well see that you have fair play. Ascertain by
public opinion, who is the best and most popu-
lar candidate, fix him in the public mind, and
your game is certain. Go ahead-hang the ex-
pense.