The Delta independent., 1894-10-10

|
society, the development of our indus
tries and the interests of the state at
large, and is menacing law, order and
good government, they have come in
solid phalanxes to the polls and cast
their ballots for men representing dif-
ferent political organization than their
own, not because they have experienced
a change Of faith, not because they lost
confidence in the virture of the princi-
pies underlying their party; not because
they have, or intend permanently to
sever their allegiance with it; not bo-
cause they have changed their political
connections, or desire to form new
party, but for the purpose OF admins
tering a severe repuke and placing their
seal of disapproval upon dishonest off-
cials and political harpers,i whose sole
aim and object is directed to the gratifi-
cation of their personal ambitions.
| A few years ago the people became
dissatisfied with tho class Of men who
had forced themselves upon the public
through political intrigues. and posed as
representatives of the Republican party,
and Republican principles. The cry be-
came universal among the conservative
element of all parties that rebuke was
necessary, that the astute politician and
ring makers who labored assiduously for
self-interests, and who by their conduct
had brought disgrace upon that party
which had, more than any. materially
aided in the development OF the state,
should be retired from political life into
oblivion, that their ring machinery
should be smashed to atoms, and the
entire political atmosphere renovated.
But the people in turning their ewes in
the direction OF reform committed ia
tai error-they allowed from the begin
ming number of broken down Politi-
clans and designing men Of sinister mo-
| tives, who were quick to descern the
drift of public opinion to hoodwinl them.
These dispicable hypocrits, possessing
not an atom Of sincerity, or integrity.
suddenly discovered an opportunity for
themselves to slide into office. Unani-
mously they set up doleful lamenta-
ton over the corruption among the old
parties, and became the most strenuous
and ardent advocates OF reform back
| ed by number of sincere and honest
people, who felt and firmly believed that
the best interest OF all would be promot-
ed by inaugurating a reform movement,
and who, honest themselves, believed
in the protestation OF these designing
teaches, allowed them to assume leader
ship, backed them by their support.
Thus We entrusted for more dishon-
est, corrupt and dangerous political ma
chine, under the innocent emblem OF
reform, to catch honest support, honest
votes and gull honest people. They
have mot with temporary success, but
as the leaders OF this reform have shown
their insincerity, and men Of question
able character. lacking integrity and
ability and the requisite elements OF sue
cess A short test will convince every
one that it is doomed to an ignomonious
failure, and it's dismemberment and dis
solution will speedily follow.
The glittering structure called Popu-
lism and built upon empty promises will
disappear as suddenly as the wonder
ful and deceptive mirage OF tho desert.
For the honest and sincere advocates
and supporters OF reform in the Popu
list party we have nothing but the high
est consideration and entertain for them
profound respect, conceding to them
full liberty to entertain honest opinions,
and to act as their best judgment die.
tates. The Populist movement in its
inception appeared to be founded upon
high ideals, and for the purpose Of pro-
noting the best interest Of all concern
ed. Upon these pretexts and principles
it gained the support Of tho law abiding
and order loving people in all parties
who were dcsirous that government
should be conducted for tho greatest
| good Of all.
But has the Populist party wherever
it has obtained power demonstrated that
it put into practice the principles it is
supposed to advocate? Has it fulfilled
even in remote degree the promises ii
| made the better element who rallied to
its support and placed it in power? On
the contrary, experience has taught us
that Populist rule is fraught with dan
gers to tho community and state. How
can it be otherwise?
Misrulc, corruption, official incompe-
.ency and open defiance OF law which
has followed in a quick train since the
Populists came into power is the sad
spectacle Witnessed by the people who
| placed it there.
We need not be surprised at this. 1t
is the logical result Of the acts OF an or
ganization whose leaders sail UNI er false
| rnloru The ,prt;yo. that have , ,,tuofo1