The Daily state journal. [volume] (Alexandria, Va.) 1868-1874, 1873-09-10

10 the Editor Of The State Journal:
You will readily believe that among the
English settlers in the state are some who
were accustomed to take an active
part in the politics of the old country.
While all. so far as | know,
have prudently abstained from sim
liar conflicts on this side (since they could
not pretend to master the situation at
glance, and have. as yet, no vote with
which to give expression to their opinions
if formed, it is inevitable that those
who have passed two or three years in
the state should begin to take interest
in the action of rival politicians. And this
interest must strengthen, now that both
parties are mastering for a contest charged
with the veal or woe Of Virginia during
another governmental term, if not for a
longer period. How grave is the import
ance of the character Of the legislation of
the next few years? If that legislation be
wise, lust aud vigorous, the state may be
confirmed in her slowly-returning prosper
ity, and may make long step upon the
path of almost unexampled progress. But
if her political rulers, during that period,
manifest the usual incapacity of sell-seekers,
the mischief wrought will be almost ire
parable. How closely, therefore, should
all good citizens scrutinize the declarations
and actions of both parties. What is pro-
fessed as the programme of the future, and
who are they by whom the profession is
made, are now the all-important questions.
Will you permit an Englishman who
has heartily identified himself with
all Virginian interests, and who had
some considerable political experience
before crossing the Atlantic, to make
brief comment on the political posi-
ton as he understands it, and to seek infor-
nation from you, or your readers, on
points seeming to need clearer party def
milton. At present, it is difficult to decide
where a sincere desire for the common
veal should place him. Long established
sympathy with the Republican party Gas
known across the seas), and with the slave
in the days of his oppression, conflicts with
a clear perception OF the mistake in the
immediate conferment Of the franchise
upon the negro, and Of its undoubted
abuses.
The only clear title to the name ola great
party is the honest advocacy Of o great
policy, when appealing for public support;
and the equally honest endeavor to give
effect to that policy when in office. By
this test alone should Conservatives and
Republicans be judged at the present
time. What, then, are the items Of great
policy in the present crisis? Clearly these
among others
The maintenance Of the state credit, not
only as matter of right, but as matter
of expediency in view Of financial neces-
sites for public works needed in the
development of the state.
The combination of liberality with
economy in the administration of finances,
which only statesmen, looking at the wei
fare of the state, and not at personal emolu-
ment, can realize.
The absolute refusal to regard with
special favor any class or sectional interest.
Probably neither party will disclaim
these items as inseparabe from political
programme deserving neral appreciation.
But which can the most honestly adopt that