The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1884-05-06
THE CHICAGO NOMINEE.
Who Will Probably Be the Man-Senator Har-
rison's Strength.
Philadelphia American.

Philadelphia American.
In certain important particulars, the prospect
of a good result at Chicago is encouraging
There is evidence that the action of the conven-
ton is not fore ordered, but that 1t IS to come
from elaboration and Judgment. Despite the
pledges and instructions which many delegates
will bring with them, a very large and perhaps
greater number arS free to choose deliberately,
and are intent upon using their freedom: M
1t will be taken for granted, we think, InS! thls
does not signify uncertainty as to the conven-
tons choice, but quite the opposite. 1t points
to a sure line Of action. 1t means that a candi-
date will be taken who is not offensive to any
element of the party, and who cannot be justly
or even plausibly assaulted by the partys oppon-
ents. 1t means that he shall be, in the first
place fit, and that his fitness shall be attested by
his capable performance of high public duties
1t means that in the discharge of these duties he
shall have shown himself true to the public trust
1t means that his record shall be admittedly
free from stain or reproach, and that his char
acter shall be that of a man of honor.
All this, however, is personal. The democratic
action of the Chicago convention should include
more. 1t should signify to the country by its
choice of a candidate for President that it means
to treat great public questions with discretion,
but, at the same time, with courage. 1t should
give the assurance that the commlttal OF the
country's interests to a Republican executive for
another four years will mean a adj
ministration, and not merely one OF negatlon
and avoidance. 1t should represent, as did the
choice of General Garfield, a response to the
hopes and wishes OF the American people-the
assurance that the path chosen will be forward,
and that the steps in it will be taken steadily. 1t
should signify that the Republican party is for
reform, willingly, and not with a mental reser-
vation-that it will strive to improve things from
choice, and not because the whip OF pubIc
opinion, or the fear of party opponents drives it
to do so.
Such a candidate, personally, and such a one,
as representative of the Republican partys vital
forces, the Chicago convention will find, If 1t
acts with a just delberation and upon a SOUND
judgment. Such a candidate it must find In Or
der to enter the field with the reasonable expec-
tation of success.
To whom, then, shall the convention turn} The
field is narrow, the list of candidates brief. Iii
as certain, now, as the limitations of human
foresight make possible that the conditions and
qualities which are demanded point to the noml-
nation of General Harrison at Chicago. he
meets the demands of the occasion. He is known
by his good service. He is clean-handed. he is
capable. He is deserving. He represents that
character of perseverance and effort which from
small beginnings Uses to high achievement He
would unite ali elements of the party, and offend
none. His nomination would .insplre them all.
and give none encouragement or depression. He
would draw many new votes and not repel any.
His very name, significant of a long line OF
American patriotism, presents the inspiration or
success.
1t is unnecessary to make comparisons, even
if it were desirable. The nomination of General
Harrison comes not by pulling other men down,
or setting any one aside, but by the fact that he
is the man for the hour, To him may be com
mitted appropriately and confidently the work
which was placed in Garfeld's hands, but which
fate struck aside from them. His nomination
will not be one of hesitation, or compromise, or
of preferring negative men; it will be, on the
contrary, that recognition of, and response to
the demand of the situation which is the proof
that the public choice deliberately and freely
made will ever preserve the public interests.
Many men have great merits, but in every
exigency one more than others is indicated to
meet it, and for this one the convention of next
month will not err in taking General Harrison
as the man.