Arkansas true Democrat., 1860-10-13
The Next Senator.


 host of names have been suggested, and if we are to judge by this criterion alone, no State in the Union is so fruitful of talent and statesmanship. Hon. R. w. Johnson has announced his positive disinclination for reelection, but many of his friends seem unwilling to allow him to retire. His pure character, his answering integri ty and his disinterested patriotism have en- deared him to all parties, and it is no small praise to say that no one ranks higher among democrats or commands such uni versal respect from the opposition. Every one feels confident that in his hands the interests of the State and of the South will be secure-4so far as the power and inliu- ence of any one man can protect them. It may be that the legislature will re-elect him noleBs volens, as we arc satisfied he is the first choice of the otate.
 But taking it for granted that Col John sons friends, in obedience to his wishes, will not present his name, we know of no aspirant who has more fattering prospects than Hon. Geo. c. Watkins. His talents his high character and his industry alike qualify him forthe post. He has ever been a consistent democrat, and is now earnestly working for the cause of Breckinridge and Lane The weight of his name alone is sufficient guaranty in this State of the soundness and the patriotism of our ticket. Judge Watkins has also the advantage of having no personal enemies. In ths-StaS election he supported the regular nominee, and, though strongly solicited to. become the disorganizing candidate, he resisted the temptations which finally seduced Judge Rector from the true faith and principles of his party.
 Gen. $. II. Hampstead has many warm admirers, who will probably press his claims forward at this time. He has the ability and the dignity to fill the position credtably to the State and to himself. He is likewise cordial supporter of Breckin- ridge and Lane, and no man in the Stato would probably make better Senator.
 Hon. Thomas Fletchcr's name has been mentioned in connection with the position. He is well-known as high-toned gentle man, good democrat, and an unostenta- tious citzen--just such man as we like to see promoted. Several counties, we un- derstand, have declared for him.
 The friends of Dr. c. B.. Mitchell have also suggested his name in this connection The brilliant canvass last summer proved Dr. Mitchell one of the best speakers in the State, and though defeated he came out of the contest with increased reputation, and the respect and esteem of many who oppos- ed him through partisan bitterness. His able vindication of the democracy has given him high status in his own party, while his uniform courtesy, his fine social quali- ties, and his generous heart have endeared him to many of the opposition.
 Many other names have been suggested, but we believe the next Senator will be se- eeted out of the above list. Hon. Albert Rust, who at one time seemed the favorite, will perhaps receive the support of the few Douglas men in the legislature but has ef- Actually marred his senatorial prospects by clnging to the fLittle Giant" " and not, as he at one time seemed to think, by the opposition of the Johnsons" or favort sm for Gov. Conway. We are satisfied that the ]" sober second thought" shows him the fallacy of his nasty conclusions.
 Wewritc the above in reply to numerous inquiries as to prominent candidates for the senatorship, and we may at some future time notice other friends with whose election we would be satisfied. What we have written is given as mere speculation and without any intention of committing us to the sup port of any man mentioned.