The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1885-12-05
Notwithstanding the Fact that He Was Nomi.
mated by Senator Edmunds and Received
Unanimous Party Endorsement.
A Spirited Discussion of the Qualities
of Indiana Building Stone.
How Commissioner Black Evades the Civil.
Service Law-An Important Order Con-
corning Fees in Pension Cases.
THE SENATE PRESIDENCY.

General Logan Declines the Unanimous Nom
ination of the Republican Caucus.
Special to the Indianapolis Journal.
WASHINGTON Dec. 4-General Logan's nomi-
| nation for President pro ten. of the Senate by
the Republican caucus this afternoon was not a
surprise to anyone; indeed, it was fully expect
ed. as stated in the Journals special last night.
But the declinaton of General Logan to accept
the position was surprise to almost everybody.
few were informed as early as last night by
General Logan that he would not accept butbe-
You'd those few his action was not expected. His
enemies say he would not have been nominated
had it not been known that he would decline.
This is untrue. He undoubtedly spoke truth
fully when he said, in his remarks to the mem
bers of the caucus, that the position is not one
to his taste. General Logan's friends tonight
authorized the following as his reasons. further
than stated to-day, for declining the presidency
of the Senate:
First-He believes that the Hoar presidential
succession bill, which leaves the President of
the Senate out of the lire of promotion will be
passed, and that will prevent his succeeding to
the executive chair in case of the death or dis
ability of Mr.. Cleveland.
Second-He has no taste, and feels that he has
no special qualification for presiding over leg
islative body. The duties of the Office are very
taxing, and require the constant attention Of
whoever holds it, When the Senate is in ses-
sion he cannot be absent from Washington more
than day or two at time.
Third-He thinks that he can make better
reputation on the floor, and by participating in
debates and legislation of the Senate can pro-
mote his prospects for the Republican nominal
ton for the presidency in 1888 He expects that
there will be considerable discussion and some
legislation upon important topics during the
present session. and does not wish to be pre-
vented from taking an active part.
Fourth-He wants to be in q position where
he can attack the administration without en-
barrassment or reserve when opportunity offers,
and expects that occasions when he can show
his fighting qualities will be frequent. He pro-
poses to lead fight against the confirmation of
the nominees of President Cleveland who have
been appointed in places of suspended Repub-
lican officials. He will endeavor to prevent con-
firmation of some of the federal appointees in
Illinois, particularly the postmaster at Chicago
and the district attorney for the Southern dis
trict. 1t is General Logan's purpose, however,
to oppose the confirmation of the successor of
every Republican who was removed from office
before the expiration of his term without cause
He thinks he could not do this if he were Presi-
dent pro tenn, as he would then be OCCUPYING a
semi judicial position.
It's all conjecture, at this time, who will be
chosen President pro tempore of the Senate.
Generally Mr. Allison, of Iowa, is most freely
and favorably mentioned. Mr. Sherman could
get it if he would ask for it, it is said. Senator
Harrison is often spoken Of too. but is not seek
ing the position. Senator Edmunds does not
seem to want it, and there appears to be no dis
position to force it upon him.