The Anderson intelligencer. [volume] (Anderson Court House, S.C.) 1860-1914, 1868-09-16
To the Several Democratic Clubs in AM
u derSon District.

the undersigned ventures TO- address a few
thoughts o.the officers and members of the differ
ent Democratic Clubs in this District, and through
them the entire people, in relation to the duties
devolying upon every man at this juncture. We
are now in the midst, of an eventfu campaign,
soon to terminate in the triumph Of principles
dear to every lover of enlightened liberty, or the
perpetuation Of power for another four years in
the hands of party, aotunted by.base motives
end unscrupulous in their vindictive expressions
of PROSTATE people. Every hite man in this
section is fully prepared to declare his principles
and assume position. in this contest. Either one
or the other party recommends itself to his judg
ment and convictions, and it may be useless to
urge such. considerations as patriotism, pride or
reputation as an, inducement for white men now
allied with the Radical party to retrace their steps.
Their clioics, hass been made; and the lines are
distinctly drawn. Like Ephraim of old, they aro
..joined to their idols or the hope Of re-
ward in some way-and fer one, would let them |
| alone. But the deluded and unfortunate people, !
now being led to their destruction by designing
bad men of our own race, ought to receive light
and instruction. It is solemn duty owe TO
present and future generations that they be warn
ed against evil teachings and corrupt advisers.
The peace and happiness of our country depends
mainly upon the conduct of the two races for the
next few weeks. Patience, forbearancc and mod
GRAFTON among the whites will possibly avert col
lison and strife. Be firm and decided in the
enunciation of principles, and prudently develope
n sound policy for future action, But with this
decision, hrmness and prudence, seek to instl cor
rect ideas among the freedmen, and endeavor by
kindness 10 make them forsake the folly and blind
ness by which they have been led estrny from their
former masters. Prove to them, in word andlin
deed, that we seek nothing beyond the permanent
ksecurity and prosperity of oil classes, and that the
Democratic party is determined to mete' out even
ehanaed justice, to black and white alike. Show
Ethem that adherence to their:only friends will gain
Efayors and sesure reasonable rewards, but make
Eno promise that will not be faithfully performed.
! Indulge in no threats nor violent language or
abusive epithets to the negroes. Remember their
fidelity in days past, and seek to win them back
from the brief estrangemen of the last three years.
Wemust also rightly impress the negro in re-
gard to the exercise of the right of sufTuge. The
history of events leading to the enfranchisement
of the colored male population in the South, to-
gether with the condemnation Of UNIVERSAL suf-
frage by the great States of the North and West,
are certainly familiar to all intelligent citizens,
and the facts comprise the best argument to
convince the negro that the privilege has been
the sole purpose of controlling the Presidential
election. When that event has transpired, whether
or not the Democracy gain control of tho govern
ment, the Radicals will cease to foster this ele
mcnt, and will allow the condition of affairs in the
South to be regulated by the ordinary means. The
result will be thai the wealth, intelligence and re-
spectabjity of each State, including South Caro-
lima, must necessarily control the rcins of govern
ment, and drive cut the interlopers who are now
assuming to direct our own affairs. This will
leave the negro.to be dealt with as policy and JUS
tice to ourselves may demand, and let him UNDER
stand plainly and distinctly that upon the conduct
I:of his race to-day depends the magnanimity here
after 10 be exercised towards him. Let him know
that the. ballot has been placed in his hands only
Temporarily, under any circumstances, and that
the privilege will be withheld at some time
even though the coming election should be
be adverse to our interests. That we are deter
mined to re-conquer our homes by peaceful
though inevitable means, and that the decision
made ct this time must and shall have an influence
on. our actions in the future. Advise him to stay
awny from the polls, unless he is prepared TO cast
in his lot, for veal or woe, with the white people.
who ore the rightful owners of the soil, and whose
ancestors discovered The country and developed its
resources.
Such, fellow citizens, is o brief outliae of the
proper course to be pursued, in my humble judg
meut It may be unworthy and without merit, as
it is assuredly incomplete; but the thoughts here
presented contain my sincere convictions Of duty,
and-I have preferred to offer them formally to
your consideration, rather than in the capacity of
journalist.
While addressing you on these TOPICS it may not
be amiss to say few words in regard to the Of
ganization of the Democratic party in this District
Fourteen LEGAL clubs have already asscnted to the
formation of District Central Club, and doubtless
the others will elect permanent members in due
time to unite the entire party by the next regular
meeting which will be held on Saleday in October.
During the coming mouth much mny be effected to
secure an overwhelming majority in this District
for SEYMOUR and BLAIR, and that majority may
possibly carry tho State. Is not the incentive
strong enough 10 the energies of every man?
There should be no laggards in our ranks, and
mono should hesitate to make every needful sacri-
fee to secure that result The proper condact of
the campaign will require ON expenditure Of sew
eralhuudred dollars. Already, in consequence of
the good name and reputation of our District being
put in jeopardy by Radical contestants against the
expressed wishes of the people, expenses have been
incurred to sustain our Representatives and pre-