The Austin weekly statesman. (Austin, Tex.) 1883-1898, 1883-11-08
THE VIRGINIA STRUGGLE.

Or the elections to be held on the
9th instant, more interest centers on
that in Virginia than in all the other
states. This interest is felt in all
parts of the Union, and both political
parties look on with hope. Should
Malone be successful it may be safe
to conclude that he will be able
to carry the old state next year for
the Republican candidate for
the presidency. Hence the fed
eral power at Washington is deeply
interested in this election, and no in
fiuence in behalf of Malone Is allowed
to pass without such influence being
exercised for all it may be worth.
Malone is now the open opponent of
Democracy, there being no other
isue, as of old, upon
which to base his position.
In the last federal contest he pro-
claimed himself Democrat, claiming
to lead the genuine Democrats of Vir-
ginia, and because of this he was OPP
posed by many Republicans, whom he
may Il reafter hope to use. If he do
not O., aly avow himself a Republi-
can, b IS one at heart now, and all Re
publi.lns will aid him in consequence.
AS it is, just now, much opposition
manifests itself among Republicans
as to the endorsement and aid he has
received from Washington. Hereafter
he may openly avow his intention to
give the Republican nominees the
electoral vote of Virginia, and as it is
going to be doubtful race for
the Republicans he will receive all the
endorsement he may need. Malone
has followed the course we predicted
for him from the first. He has sold
himself to the worst elements in the
Republican party, and his price has
been no mean thing; it is the federal
patronage Of Virginia, and all the per-
quisites arising therefrom. Demo
Gratis who now follow him any fur
ther, do SO with their eyes open as to
his intention to lead them right into
the Republican herd. A Washington
! correspondent of a Republican paper
says the administration is tired
of Malone and wants to get
rid of him. This, of
course, is delusion for Democrats
who hold dust in their eyes, but the
statement viii not pass muster with
those who keep their eyes skinned"
The administration, of course, would
haye the country believe it has not
entered into despicable trade, not
because of any high-minded impulses,
but because it would deceive. Not
only do true Democrats consider with
scorn these articles Of agreement, but
there are many honest Republicans
who must be deceived as to the agree
ment. No doubt can be entertained
as to the trade, and the admin
istration and Malone are now
in that sort of accord which
springs from combination between
rascals. 1t may be borne in mind
that the administration organ in
Washington, not long ago, admitted
it would be impossible to carry the
next presidential election for the Re
publicans without some electoral
votes from the South. It counted on
the votes of Virginia and of North
Carolina. and probably of West Vir-
ginia and Florida. The basis of such
trades is easily understood. The con-
test, therefore, in Virginia means
more than Malone fight; it is one
for the presidential nomination as
well as election. Well informed men
of both parties in Virginia think Ma
home may be defeated; and in the
meantime it may be well for geod men,
even here in Texas, to pray for the de-
ivcr;snce of Virginia. Her coat-of-
arms is Liberty standing upon pros
trate Tyranny. May the emblem be
uphold now as in the days Of her glory.