The World. [volume] (Martinsburg, W. Va.) 1891-1896, 1892-02-12
BLAIEE's LETTER.
Views of Its Effect Upon the Presi-
Dental Situation.
SENATOR oULLoM IN THE FIELD.

vention.
WASHINGTON, Feb. 9.-Opinions differ
widely as to the effect upon national
politics of Mr.. Blaine's letter. Polite
ians seem to be practically unanimous
in the belief that the secretary, in writ
ing it, turns his back on the nomination
for the presidency, it being generally
conceded that he could be his party's
candidate if he would but consent. This
belief is shared by leaders of both great
parties.
Representative Ellis, chairman of the
committee Oh the revision of laws, was
in his committee room conversing with
several members, and said that he had
expected the withdrawal. 1t would I'M
doubtedly tend to increase the chances
of President Harrison for the nomina-
ton. But not for election said Rep
resentatlve Montgomery who was pac-
ing on the floor of the committee room.
Judge Montgomery expressed no sur
prise at the withdrawal of Mr.. Blaine.
Cuilom in the Field.
1t is developed here, 81 consequence
of Mr.. Blaine's letter of withdrawal.
that Illinois will probably have a strong
candidate for the presidential nomina-
ton in the person of Senator Cullom.
The senator desires delegation favora-
bic to him from his own state. and that
he will endeavor to gain strength from
other states is assured When ques-
toned by reporter Senator Cullom
said:
81 am not surprised. I had intima-
tons OF its coming from various sources,
and, indeed, from the secretary himself,
but nothing definite. If it is construed
by his friends to mean an absolute re-
fusal, as | have NJ doubt it will be (the
senator had not then seen a copy of the
letter., it opens the field for the nominal
tion"
"Does that mean that you will enter.
SENATOR"
Eyes, it does. l have said to my friends
that. having given Illinois thirty years
of earnest service-eight in the state
legislature. six in the governors chair,
eight in the lower house of congress,
and nine in the senate would esteem
it great honor to have the delegation
to the national Republican convention
from Illinois support me for the presi.
Dental nomination"
Chauncey NJ. Depew's Opinion.
NEW YORK. Feb. 9.-After reading
Mr.. Blaine's letter Mr.. Depew said: 1t
is the most important announcement
that has been made IN the presidential
canvass. Blaine was certain of the
nomination. There would have been
no name seriously considered III opposi-
ton to him. Mr.. Blaine is still in
position to largely dictate the nominal
ton. The party's devotion to him has
prevented the consideration of other
names. The denomination of President
Harrison has by this letter, in my opin-
ION, been assured.
Suppose the New York delegation
goes to Minneapolis solid for you, Mr..
Depew?" suggested the reporter.
81 really don't know anything about
what the New York delegation may dor
replied Mr.. Depew.
Senator Hill Expected 1t.
"This announcement is no surprise to
me" said Senator HILL, "but its form is
not exactly such as had supposed it
would be-" The ex-governor did not
seem to think that it would have any
particular effect upon the nations desti-
didate, whoever he might be. is certain
to be defeated. President Harrison, he
continued, was almost sure of a renomi-
nation. 'He has all the federal machin-
cry in his hands, and can easily get the
nomination if he chooses to take it.
Ex-Governor Foraker's Views.
CINCINNATI, Feb 8. 49, Ex-Governor
Foraker ON Blainefs letter of declination,
says: MIR. Blaine will stand in history
without rival. Twice when he was a
candidate for the nomination it was re-
fused him. Once when nominated he
was defeated. Such record would de-
stroy the power, influence and prestige
of almost any other man. But instead
he has constantly grown greater. stronger
and nearer to the hearts of the people.
until, as result, he had had literally
forced upon him an opportunity to make
the unprecedented record of twice de-
Ginning a nomination which would have
meant in each instance an election.
Somebody once said in substance that
to refuse to be bishop is greater than
to be bishop. The same can be said
OF the presidency, and especially Of Mr..
Blaine, who has twice refused it.
LAS a Republican, deeply regret Mr..
Blaine's determination. In saying this
l don't mean to disparage President Har-
rison."
From General Alger.
DETROIT, Mich, Feb. 9.-General
Russell A. Alger appeared to be sur
prised at the announcement of Mr..
Blaine's withdrawal from the race. II
didn't believe he said, ''that Mr.. Blaine
would write it, but good many people
told me they thought he would [ think
that the time for red fire III conven-
lions has gone by and believe that the
delegates Will be selected with the view
OF careful consultation when they get
together at Minneapolis, and that there,
after comparing notes, they will do
what is best. 1t would be healthy
thing for the party to have several
presidential candidates"
1t Means Harrison.
CHICAGO, Feb. 9-Blaine's withdrawal
IS the political sensation of the hour.
The members of the numerous Blaine
clubs are much chagrined, but Harri-