The Indiana State sentinel. [volume] (Indianapolis) 1868-1895, 1888-10-03
AN OLD SOLDIER ON MATsoN,
The Democratic Candidate for Governor
A True Friend of the Boys in Blue.


A True Friend of the Boys in Blue.
To THE EDITOR-Sir: In not political, ma
tional and state contest like the present, per-
sonal qualities in candidates are generally neg
lected or overlooked in the desire for the sue
cess OF the nominee of the party. But in the
present instance Indiana has candidate for
governor whose manifestations of interest in a
very much neglected class of individuals is a
special recommendation to him for support.
have reference to Col. c. c. Matson, candidate
for governor of Indiana, and his soldier COM
rades, regardless eff their political predictions.
Col. Matson has shown himself to be a close
and warm friend TO all who, like HIMSELF
served their country in time OF difficulty and
danger. While his sympathies in their be-
half have gone out alike toward all
who in any way have become
identified among the nations defenders, that
may indicate too great respect Tor the more
prominent characters in the great drama, he
has nevertheless proven his deepest regard
for the humblest soldier by his official con-
duct. Comrades you have true and tried
friend in Col. Matson. Not only has he done
his official duty faithfully, but as an individual
ne has given his special attention TO individual
cases OF application Tor pension, where his in
fuence has been of invaluable service TO the
applicant, as | am personally aware. As gov
ernor of the state his interest in behalf of sol
diers will not be abated, but his power and
ability in securing the just rights of his soldier
constituency will be enhanced No national
interest of soldiers can be seriously inperil-
ed by the election of a governor as it would
under the present circumstances, and if soldiers
will consult their party interest they will sup
port Col. Matson for governor, no what may
be their prejudices or their views on the tariff
question. As soldiers we have an interest in
national questions in common with other peo-
pie and may differ in our opinions in regard to
such questions. But in mattsrs pertaining TO
our army experience we have special and
mutual interest in which we should all be
agreed. l. as the least worthy of those who
went to the war, TO fill up lndiana's quota Of
volunteers, have had occasion 10 be under
obligations to Col Matson for special fayors.
If he has been generous and kind enough to
interest himself in my behalf as a private in
the Seventh regiment Indiana volunteers, what
would he not be willing to do for comrades
more worthy who are residents of his own
state. Soldiers, more than any other class,
should show gratitude for favors. Gen. Hovey,
his competitor, has soldier reputation, but he
is without the reputation and credit of being a
special friend to the private soldier. Comrades
should bear in mind that their numbers are
rapidly decreasing, and soon their influence
can no longer be made felt in political efforts
to benefit their own interests, and whatever
is to be done must be done by concert of action.
ELLIOTT WINsCoTT,
Co. X, Seventh Ind Inftry, Vols.
Syracuse, n. Y, Sept. %.