The Louisiana Democrat. [volume] (Alexandria, La.) 1845-1918, 1883-12-26
Gov. McEnery's Speech to the State
Convention.

Gov. McEnery was nominated by
vote of 22O 4-12 against 17s s-12, cast
for Francis T. Nichols, the announce
ment of which almost "raised the roof" |
from off the Capitol building. A COM
mittee of two were appointed to in
form him of his nomination, and on
his taking the platform, he said in
substance, as follows:
Gentlemen of the State Democratic
Convention of Louisiana-In accepting
the distinguished honor Of this nominal
ton by the Democratic party for Gov
ernor of the State of Louisiana, I will
say that I appreciate with gratitude
more than I can express. Under 9th
er circumstances it would be an honor
filling the measure of any mans ambi-
ton; but under those which have at
tended this campaign, there are feel
ings which rise above all ambitions,
springing from the proud satisfaction
that my administration Of the Execu-
tive Office has been approved and my
honor vindicated by an overwhelming
majority Of the people of Louisiana.
This has not been accomplished by
breaking down the reputation of 9th
ers. No mans fortune, name or repu-
tation has been destroyed that mine
might rise upon the sad ruins. I have
relied for my official vindication upon
the truth that would 60 forth from my
friends and neighbors. Without in
consistency I can pay the same tribute
to the worth of the gentlemen whose
names have been mentioned in connec-
ton with this nomination that I did in
1876 and 1879. They are gentlemen
whose names a1e inseparably associa-
ted with the honor and glory of our
State. But let the dead past bury its
dead, and all the bitterness which has
been engendered during this canvass
pass into the end of oblivion. 1t may
be expected that I should congratulate
the Democratic party upon the healing
of late dissensions and the restoration
Of harmony, but there is no occasion
for this, as there has never been any
dissension in the party. It's vitality is
such that it requires stronger force
than personal preferences to destroy it.
AS quickly as flash of inspiration the
assembled delegates realized what
hopeless task it was to make the party
organization secondary to personal
ends, and rebuke has been given
this day in the assembled household
which has been most graciously &C
copied. A peaceful blessing rests up
on it to last as long as Republican in
situations exist and there is a necessity
for the party. I have grateful &C
acknowledgements to make to every por-
ton of the State, and glad am I to say
that seetionalism has been lost sight of
and that North and South, East and
West Louisiana have, in this cam
paign, been united. This administra-
ton has been approved, and I will en-
deavor to carry out the wishes Of the
people in continuing the same policy
in the Executive office. A patient
hearing will be given with the same
attention to the humblest and the
proudest Of our citizens, the door Of
the Executive shall always be open
and ready access will be invited at all
times.
The institutions of the State will be
further encouraged for greater useful.
ness; and for our common schools
will again repeat what I stated in my
last message. I am in favor of the
most liberals appropriations for school
purposes, and regret that there should
be any limitation on taxation for this
purpose. The 1920 miles Of levees
will receive my constant watchfulness,
and l hope to see the day near at hand
hand when the people Of the alluvial
districts can complacently look upon
} the angry waters Of the Mississippi
River, without apprehension or fear,
but will welcome the swelling tide to
carry water under control to thei1
fields and sugar-houses.
The finances Of the State shall re.
3 ceive my most earnest attention, until
the bonds Of Louisiana shall rank with
the best in the markets, and every man
who renders public service shall be
, promptly paid in cash. This last has
g already been reached, but I hope ere
long that not even an hours delay
shall intervene.
= In fact Louisiana's shield has already
l emerged from the dark clouds which
l obscured it and come out in the sun.
: light. 1t will be my duty to keep il
bright, SO that, turn it as you may, il
will always reflect her glory.
In conclusion, let me say that be.
long to no ring, except that which has
, encircled itself around your coast and
! kept away pestilence when it was max.
ing efforts to pass through the gate.
ways Of our commerce. I belong to nc
monopoly, except the exclusive priv.
: lege which exercise of conducting the
State government, according to my
judgment, while | am solely RESPONSE.
, BILE under the laws for it's benefits OF
: its wrongs. I belong to no lottery,
I: except that which has the great prize
, which you have rendered me from the
hearts Of the people.
THE nomination of s. D. Meme
ry for Governor by the Democratic
State Convention, will be hailed with