Daily Kennebec journal., 1881-01-01

except the martyred Lincoln. He has been
able to walk through partisan contests
and to be trusted and honored by oppon-
ents of every shade Of feeling. and TO de-
serve eulogies for his spirit and bearing
which would be extravagant when ap-
piled to any other statesman. In this
State where from local reasons the At |
tempt has been made to keep down his
reputation and popularity he could to-day
draw within the republican organization
more votes than any other candidate tor
the highest position, from all classes who
could act freely and without fear Of losing
their official places.
Mr.. Blaine could therefore start at the
head of the cabinet with stronger sup
port within the party than could be Sc
cured for any other person whatsoever.
He represents the living. progressive ele-
'nents Of the party. He is practical
man, and wins friends and disarms eni-
mics. It is understood that he would not
accept the position Of secretary OF the
treasury. The State department requires
less drudgery, calls for the broad views
and large discussion in which Mr.. Blaine
especially shines, and get it is naturally
the place for the real premier. In the
cabinet as in every other relation Mr..
Blaine will very easily be recognized as
born leader. Since the accession of the
republican party the Secretary Of State
has been the center OF brilliant social cir
Gle; he has illustrated the most genial and
hospitable side OF American manhood to
Representatives of foreign countries. Of
fetal and voluntary, and has dispensed a
liberal cheer to the visitors who are called
in the national capital. Superior to Sew
ard in wit and readiness of table talk
which would make the reputation OF a
professional racontenr. not inferior to Fish
in the elegance of his entertainments and
beyond all men in the heartines Of his
bearing. rivaling Evarts in his scholarship
and courtly department where these are
fitting. Mr.. Blaine would continue and en-
large the record of that courtesy and lib
erality which have demonstrated that
American society needs not shrink from
comparison with that OF any other capital
Ought Mr.. Blaine to accept the posi-.
ton? By all means. certainly. He is in
the Senate one of many. and the next few
years are to develop no large questions
upon which he can render distinctive ser
vice or add to his well-earned fame
Whenever he may desire at the occurrence
OF a vacancy Maine will be only too glad
to return him to seat there. In the cab
met he can be of real use to tho President
and to the nation. His clearness of vision
and his skill in managing men will moi
simply bring success, but will at the out
set put to fight adverse influences which
would surround many another in like po
sition. The republican party all over ths
continent will take courage from his ap
pointment. and feel additional confidence
, in the incoming administration. This
choice demonstrates the sagacity and tht
common sense of President Garfield. i
will rally about him every element in the
party in every State. Not least in this
State will it prove q bond Of unity. Mr.
Blaine will get that rest which his long
!abors demand, with sufficient activity t.
satisfy his stirring and vital nature. The
sources OF our information justify conf
dence that Mr.. Blaine will be invited t.
be Secretary Of State. and that he will &C
cept the position. The President. th'
party and the nation may well be congrat
ulated upon the selection. and we believe
4 that the acceptance will be wise course
for Mr.. Blaine, as we are certain it will
be the dictate Of genuine patriotism.