Spirit of Jefferson. [volume] (Charles Town, Va. [W. Va.]) 1844-1948, 1874-09-08
THE "HARMoNY MoVBMENTu IN
HARDY COUNTY,.

cateo naImouy among al democrats 1rreSpec
tive of their former affiliations. In thisspeech
hedeprecated the idea of denominating Demo
Gratis, as Jacob Democrats, Camden Demo
Gratis, or any other mans democrats. In res
Spouse to this sentiment, Mr.. j. N. Camden
wrote a letter to Mr.. sprigg, which we find
printed in the Counter and Advertiser, a paper
which was opposed to Mr.. Camden's election
to the Office of Governor in 1872. We give
it in full:
PARKERsBuRe. August ID, 1874.
Gen. Joseph Sprigg:
Dear iSr:- 81 have just read the proceed
ings of the Democratic Conservative Conven.
ton of Hardy county, together with your
remarks Of the Convention, as published in
the Courier aud Advertiser.
am glad to see the position taken by you
in favor of uniting aud harmonizing the party
1t is the only position for party with
principles to occupy. The idea of the Demo
cratic party of this State being designated by
the Jacob or Camden wings, or banging to
the tail of any mans kite. is simply ridicu>
lous, and absurd, and so far as am concerned.
L feel it to be particularly so, since I am
neither the originator, nor the exponent of any
way entitled to such distinction.
have always been Democrat from con-
viction, and believer in the usages. customs
and organization of the party, as have known
it all my life. There can be but one Demo
cratic party in our State. unless there is more
than one set of Democratic principles, and as
there seems to be no distinction in our party
founded upon different political principles. it
follows thst such division can only result IN
an element of strength to the Republican
party; since it contributes to that extent to
the defeat Of the Democratic party. I know
that great many good lIemocrats-many of
whom were entranchised through the eff
cheney of the Democratic and Conservative
organization, would repel the idea of c"mbin-
ing with the Republican party, for the over,
thrown of the Conservative party. from which
they had received such substantial benefits.
and reinstating in power the party that had
been so proscriptive, they have not looked
upon it in this light, and yet they con
tributing to this result, IN the most effective
manner possible. by preventing such organiza
tion and concert Of action as will remain and
make effective its strength.
There are unfortunately too many men in
our party, who are democrats only when it
suits their purpose to be SO, aud when from
lack OF strength, or other cause they fail to-
control the party, Ell her State or county, for
their personal advancement or in the interest
of their triends-throw aside party allegiance,
break with the organization, and by the u,is-
management aud help of the now ready aud
waiting republican minority, set up a personal
party OF their own; but you never this
take place in republican counties it is only
where democratic majorities make it to the
interest of the republican party that it is done
There IS always some trouble in giving en-
tire satisfaction in any party organization /;
there must always be some asprants defeated
because all can't VIM at the same time but
we must bear in mind that concessions are
necessary to maintain harmony. in all organi
cations, and we must yield to the majority the
right to control. l depreciate the idea OF per-
sonal politics, the sacrifice of the party for
personal ends. IF party organization is
worth anything. it is for its principles The
Republican party with Republican principles
is entitled to more consideration than a com>
bination than a combination of Democrats and
Republicans Officiating politically without
principles in common.
L believe in the conservatism of the Dem
ocratic party. and am heartily in favor of
Cancellation and harmony. and, like you, |
would disregard any man o. set of men who
stand in the way Of its unity and effective
organization.
And | repeat to you again, frankly and in
all sincerity, do not intend to permit myself
to stand in the way of reconciliation and
harmonious corporation.
have never held political Office in NY
life. nor voluntarily been candidate for of
fee but once. After the close of the war, l
with others, took an active interest in the re-
peal of the registration and disfran chising
laws, that then disgraced our State, which led
to my nomination for Governor in 1868,
against my wish and protest; and my nccep-
lance was urged on the ground that could
afford to make the sacrifice. In 1>72 while
j desired the nomination. | made no efforts
which any man might not hnnorab M Ike to
obtain it l was nominated, and, under a
peculiar condition of things, was defeated
at the polls Let that be the end OF it, as it
was the cad of my representative relation to
the party.
cannot see why the story of my political
aspirations should Brighten children and timid
people. since l have Eever held an office and
asking for none now Can those who criticise
me most say more?
desire to do anything consistent with self
respect to conciliate and unite the party IF
necessary, let me he forgotten, politically bur
keep our party together. and its principles and
organizations bright and warm in the hearts
of the peorle of our State.
I fully endorse vour efforts in that direction
and hope that the action taken in Hardy will
be followed with success all over the State
Very truly yours.
in. CAMDEN.