The aegis & intelligencer. [volume] (Bel Air, Md.) 1864-1923, 1883-02-09
The Political Situation.

The political situation, as far as il relates
to the present condition of the Democratic
party in Maryland, is being earnestly dis
cussed 1t is agreed by all who have the in
terests of the party and of the State ut heart
that the old machine method of making nom
nations at the diCtation of n few men must
be cast aside and the rank and file of the
party be permitted to have voice in the
nomination of those f whom they are ex-
pected to cast their votes. Whilst the con-
dtion of affairs in our party is well calculated
to make Democrats pause and consider before
making their nominations, il must not be
supposed that the Republican party is in any
better plight. That party is torn by rival
factions, but it has the advantage of
solid colorcd vote, certain to be cast with
unquestioning faith for any set of candidates,
bearing the Republican party endorsement,
no matter how they may secure their nomi'
nation. We believe that majority of the
voters of Maryland are attached to Demo-
cratic principles and are unwilling to turn
the State over to Republican domination;
but they have grown FESTIVE under the rule
of bosses, and although the affairs of Mary
land have generally been well managed,
many voters have become indifferent about
. voting, when to vote is merely to confirm
and ratify the edicts Of selfconsttuted lead
ers The remedy for this state of affairs is
two.lold In the first place the voters of the
l., in ha
nominations, and in the second place honest
and competent men must be put forward as
candidates That the latter will follow the
former we have no doubt. Among the offices
to he filled this fall is that of Governor. For
this position number of prominent gentle
men have been named, and whilst any Of
them may possess the requisite ability and
integrity to fill the office credtably, few of
them, perhaps, could command the united
support of the party, without which success is
is doubtful. Wehave here in llarforda gentle
man who we think, combines in himselfall the
elements required for successful Democratic
candidate for Governor-IIon. II. w. Archer.
To natural abilities Of high order he unites
long practical experience in business affairs,
n digniiied department, great energy, and
what is more important than all besides,
sterling honesty and Roman firmness of
character, We therefore cheerfully give
place to the following communication, and
can heartily endorse all that our correspond
ent says touching Mr.. Archer's qualifications
for the rubernatorial chair;
For GOyernOr-HOn. Henry w. Archer.
Mr.. EDITOR: For month or two past the
Baltimore newspapers have contained articles,
chiefly copied from other journals, relating to
the future management of the Democratic party.
Some of these articles have also named several
gentlemen as suitable candidates for the Demo
cratic nomination for Governor in the coming
campaign. Permit me TO name, through your
columns for that position, Hon. II w. Archer,
Of Hartford county, as one who would, if nomi-
mated, he unquestionably elected; who would
do credit to the party and fill the gubernatorial
chair with dignity and ability. Mr.. Archer's
position in the party is one possessed by few men
of his standing and influence. Whilst taking
IN active interest in all that relates to the good
government of the State, he enjoys the conf
dencc of the leaders and the rank and file of
all the diversified elements into which the De-
mocmcy of Maryland appears to be Divided
Better still, he would, more than any other man
who might be named, unite and gather around
him the large body of voters who have lately
been acting outside Of the regular party organi-
cation, but who have no intention of entering
the Republican ranks.
Mr.. Archer's qualification for Governor of
our noble old State are conceded by all. His
high ability, his unhnching integrity, his en-
larged views of public policy and thorough
knowledge of affairs of State; his experience in
the practical details of business, all combine
to fit him for the exalted position to which
those who know him best would like to see him
elevated, but to attain which Mr.. Archer him
self would not in n single iota lower the high
standard of his life and character
From conversations with leading men of the
party from various parts of the State, ! am
satisfied his nomination is one of the strongest
the party could make, and that it would give
entire satisfaction to the Democrats of
MARYLAND.