The south-western. [volume] (Shreveport, La.) 1852-1870, 1861-07-24
CONGRESSIONAL Election.

Mr. EDToR:-Whle our people 50 intensely en-
gagged in contemplating the alabscrbing theme OF war
and the countrys defence, there is much danger that
matters bearing as great Importance on their future
welfare may be neglected; and, this neglect may be
hereafter traced whatever ills may beall the Conted-
eracy.
have been brought to this reflection by the apparent
apathy and indifference the part of the people, or at
least of those who heretofore have assumed the priv
cgc OF thinking for Them in reference to all matters OF
civil character. Such danger is incident to all po-
tca troes revolutions, and it is only by the proper
action of the thinking and reflective portion that it
be made apparent to the masses. Then the hope OF
success outSrps all other considerations and the means
by which it is to be accomplished are held in little or
reference to their future influence on the status of the
country.
1t is of cours, all important that the military should
be made efficient as possibility the direction of a
watchful attention to that quarterly providing the
competent officers to command lt-by seeing that
the wants of our volunteers and others amply pro-
vded for and i'll fact by requiring the performance of
all things which will lessen the seventies and ealamities
incident to their perious and exposed situations But
our duty does not end here In fact to enable the
country which is full of resources, carry their
obligations it is absolutely necessary that our best most
active and talented should be placed in the high and
sponsibe places.
There be disposition to solicit spirit of
this kind and to be evident from the manner
in which the prctensions of certain individuals
biity that of most important civil offices will
be filled by persons totally incompetent Such is par
tcuary the in regard member for congress,
and it is to that Office particularly alIude-
1t is amusing observe how modcstly these Sotens
and Lycurguses Of modern times side forward to the
front of the stage when called by their country through
the pen of some sycophantc scribbcr. He is over
powered with establishment andalmost sinks to the floor
under terrible weight OF duty and by lis conduct and
language bu truth which he intends to be taken
/ for a lie when he SAYS he is Incompetent, and others
better qualified might have been chosen" To speak
literally and plainly it is insult and mockery to the
good OF north Louisiana to present seriously the
names of certain grandiloquen gentlemen in times like
these for the highest and most important office in the
gift of the people 1t is time to bestow passing
thought that class whose distinction has hitherto had
for its sole merit the uectonate arguments advanced in
/ supporting the claims OF political pets.
! Whether the country has drifted within the influence
of the terrible political maestrom from want OF
sufficient sagacy the part Of the people in choosing
their rulers and representatives the part of those
after having been chosen it is proper just for
us to consider There is time taste for such dis
custom But is the time for the proper exercise OF
the good judgment and wisdom of the people in the
choice of their representatives The best heads and
hearts of the country must be at their sefce and that
modcsy and natural reserve, which 20 hand i'll hand
with true aud lofty patriotism will disclose, when prop
erly appealed to the right persons who would be willing
to give their talents and energies to the country.
North Louisiana has many sueh who wouIdlay aside,
fer WHILE the close and assiduous attention their pTi
affairs require in order to assist putting pc
ca machine in a fair and successful way Of working
1t is your duty, Mr. editor well its that OF every jour
nalst at present TO enforce upon the people the dire
necessity Of bringing these matters calm and serious
consideration. Noefy OF party Or clique should be lis
tened to for moment or allowed to disturb in the least
the honest search for the wiscst and best qualified
| amongst rs.
Imly be asked Well Sir you have been kind enough