Louisiana capitolian. (Baton Rouge, La.) 1879-1881, 1880-08-03


| and prosperity, and Of that liberty we
so highly prize and intend, at every
hazard, to preserve. But no form OF
government, however carefully devised;
| no principles, however sound, Will pro-
tect the rights Of the people unless the
administration is faithful and efficient.
1t is vital principle in our system that
neither fraud nor force must be allowed
| to subvert the rights Of the people.
When fraud, violence or incompetence
controls, the noblest constitutions and
wisest laws are useless. The bayonet is
not a fit instrument for collecting the
votes of free men. 1t is only by full
vote, free ballot and fair count, that the
people can rule in fact, as required by
the theory of our government. Take this
foundation away and the whole structure
falls. Public office
IsA TRUST, NOT A BOUNTY
bestowed upon the holder.
| No incompetent or dishonest person
should ever be entrusted with it,, or if
appointed they should be elected. The
basis of substantial practical service re-
| form must first he established by tho
people in filing the. executive Offices
| If we fix a high standard Of qualitica-
tons for Office and sternly reject the
corrupt and incompetent, the result will
| be decisive in governing the action OF
the servants whom they cntrnst with
the appointing power. The war Of the
Union was successfully closed more than
| fifteen years ago. Al classes Of our
people must share alike the
| BLESSINGS OF THE UNION,
and are equally concerned III its per
petuity and ju the proper administration
of public affa'rs. We are in a state OF
profound peace, Henccforth let it be our
> purpose to cultivate sentiments Of
friendship and no amnesty against bur
fellow-citizens. Our material interests,
varied and progressive, demand our
constant and united efforts. A scdulous
and scrupulous care of public credit, TO-
cether with wise and economical man
agement.of our governmental expendi.
lures, should be maintained in order
that llabor may be lightly brrdened,
and that all pesons may be protected IL
their rights to the r,uits of their own in
dustry.
Ii The time has come to enjoy the sub
stantial bcnetitSeOf reconciliation. Al
one people, we have common interests
let us encourage the harmony and sener
GUS rivalry among our own Industries
which will revive our languisbing mer
r; chant marine, extend our commerce
with foreign countries, assist our mer
chants, manufacturers and producers t
develop our vast natural resources an
g, increase the prosperity and happines
of our people.
If elected, shall, with divine favor
labor with what ability possess, t
K discharge my duties with fidelity, &C
cording to my convictions, and sha
take care to protect and defend tn
" Union, and to see that the laws be faitl
fully and equally executed in all part
IF Of the country alike. Twill assume til
responsibility, fully sensible Of the fac
that to administer rigidly the function
of government is to discharge the mo-
sacred duty that can devolve upon a
er American citizen.
lam, very respectfully,
al WINFIELD S. HANCOCK.
J To Hon. John W. Stevenson president OF u
convention Hon. John p. Stockton cha
10 man, and others of tho committee Of the N
of tional Democratic Convention.
C;ro ,,o CoproI,o Du1wnisnr hottie