The weekly democratic statesman. [volume] (Austin, Tex.) 1871-1883, 1874-07-16
DOES ORGANIZATION co ONq


Are Democrats alive to the importance of
organization9 Do they remember
that the time is rapidly drawing nigh when
they will be called upon to select standard
bearer for Congress in the Fifth and other
districts9 1t would be we'll for them to
read often the call for conyentinn. &, may
Be ta garhered rdose S65 are the friends and
supporters of true and tried Democratic
principles 1t will not do to say that we
have such large majority that there is
no use for any exertion. 1t matters
not if we are far more numer-
GUS than our opponents. The only way
that we can make numbers effective and
powerful Is by organization. Then all are
made alive to the interests at stake; to the
objects in view; to the work which must be
done; and how that work must be accom-
plished. How absurd would it be for
general to move On an organized army OF a
few thousand well drilled men with an
army five times as large, but without or
ganization, without discipline, now gath
cred into rings, anon rushing heller skelter,
here and there, the few calling to the many
and all making confusion worse con-
founded. How quickly coHld such a
body be dispersed by a few well
directed shots. Now, while we do
not require the drill OF the soldier,
we do need the organization of citizens
who desire to go intelligently to work for
the purpose of placing in the field true and
well-tried men, those who know their duty,
the wants of their constituents, and how to
carry out their wishes; and then, having
placed them in the field, rally to their sup
port, bring out supporters, STIR up the luke
warm, arouse the Indifferent, and thus
gather together on the day Of election a
host who march beneath the ban
ner of Democracy, and unitedly cast
their suffrages for the men of their
choice. Such organizations are effective,
and accomplish a good work. But if,
on the other hand, no efforts are made to
bring out the full Democratic strength, the
enemy will take advantage of the situation
and elect their own men. Then, when too
late, vain regrets will be expressed, and
each viii attempt to fasten the cause Of de-
feat upon his neighbor. Such course is
childish and unworthy of grown people
who know the value of the ballot Organ
ize; bring out the Democratic host; discuss
the merits Of the different men whom you
prOposei and be prepared to give a clear ex-
preston Of your choice, and ready to give a
hearty and full support to the nominees
After the election yoa can go home proud Of
the result, with easy consciences and with
out the fear Of being told that you did not
do your duty.
Now is the time to place good and able
men in Office; not simply to gratlfy their
own ambition, but such as viii bo able to
command attention and influence the Con-
gress to pass such laws as are absolutely
necessary for our good and prosperity.
We do not send men to Congress merely
to enjoy themselves, regardless Of the In
fuence which they viii WELD as wise and
discreet Legislators. Better not send any.
than to be represented bg men who have
neither the capacity nor reputation to gain
friends and shape legislation; or who,
although brilliant and able. arc yet
in utter antagonian to the body by
thicr fery and reckless course. We must ex-
ercise discretion. Let Us gain wisdom from
experience. and not rashly shut our eyes to