Alexandria gazette. [volume] (Alexandria, D.C.) 1834-1974, 1884-08-25
Blaine's Corruption,

Charles H. Bergner, ESQ.,, surprised every
one by indicating that he is not inclined to
vote Tor Blaine. Mr. Bergner is lawyer.
His father was the postmaster for many
years, the public printer and editor and
publisher of the Harrisburg Erening Tele-
graph, the central party organ of the State.
Dying few years ago, bis son succeeded to
the ownership Of the paper and in 1876 was
its editor-in. chief
Everybody wanted an explanation.
1t is commonly believed" said Mr.. Berg
ner, that Blaine was defeated for the nom
nation in 1876 because he was obnoxious 10
the Cameron ring. There is nothing further
from the truth and the only color for the
statement lies in the fact that Senator
Cameron was opposed to him. His defeat
was accomplished by disclosure made by
William II. kembe, who was a delegate
irou the Fourth District, Philadelphia, and
tad no reference direct or indirect to the
relations between Senator Cameron and Mr.
Blaine.
After the sixth ballot had been COM
pleted," continued Mr.. Bergner, sit became
evident that the issue would be decided on
The next The Pennsylvania delegates had
been voting for John F. Hartranft in obedi-
erce 10 the resolution of the State conven-
ton. In order that the State might make
Itself felt in the succeeding ballot the dele
gnlion withdrew for consultation. While
they were engaged thus the late Morton
NcMichael and General Bingham addressed
themsel,e earnestly TO the delegates in adj
vocacy of voting for Blinc At the con-
clusion Of Mr.. McMichael's remarks it was
evident deep impression had been made.
JUST as the votes were about to be taken,
NJ. kemble arose. He asked the delegates
To pause in the matter, and gave his opin-
ion that the nomination of Blaine would
bring defeat TO the party. He referred to
The damaging stories that would be told and to
The doubtful record Mr.. Blaine had made during
his public life. He drew from his pocket two
can, cllcd checks, and continued: L never had
any legitimate business transactions with Mr..
E'ain'. They are signed by me. made payable to
his order and endorsed and returned to me
through the ordinary channels of such things
When Mr. Blaine WAS Speaker Of the House of
Congress | was interested in some pending legis-
Ii; on | asked his assistance in way of u favor
a!ir ruling He agreed to rule as | asked for
- 900. ] paid him the money with this check
frxhibtinr the 5000 check. Subsequently
Elaine came to me and demanded $500 more
and WAS obliged to yield and make the second
payment with this check (eyhibiting the - 500
ch@ X. New, said MIR. hclnble. i defy any man
t" say that ever had any other business transac
ton "ih Blaine. aud defy any man to dispute
the grnnincncss of this endorsement in Blane's
handwriting. IL he is nominated by this conven
ti"n will give these facts to the public, and his
tcrcat IL certain to follow. l have no objection
10 man being bought, if he will stay bought,
hut | protest against him demanding the pay
twice
The effect Of this speech was electrical" con-
TIMED Mr.. Rergner. when Kemblc sat down
he htn,le, the cancelled checks around among the
delegates and they were examined carefully,
critically had them in my hand and am salts.
fled that they we're genuine. Immediately after
the vote was taken and the delegation decided to
c;.>t its :ntc for Hayes. That vote decided the
issue against Blaine.
While the baotins in the Chicago convention
of $3.50 was In progress, Gen. Simon Cameron,
abiding tn the matter said to Neighbour
that it evident that the people for
Blaine, but owing to the evidence against him it
would be fatal 10 nominate him. y Harrisburg
Letter 10 UnTem tIh.) Ledger.