Evening star., 1896-08-25

land and the administration. When Mr..
Cleveland was at Lakewood making up his
cabinet prior to entering upon his second
term. Ex-Governor Francis was summoned
there. and a strong impression existed for
a time that he would be given a portfolio
He had been mayor of St. Louis and twice
governor of Missouri, and before Mr.. Cleve-
lands nomination the last time became
certainty was pressed for the presidential
nomination. At the time he was talked of
for cabinet position 1t was said that he
had been bitterly opposed by faction in
his state and that remonstrance against
his selection was forwarded to Mr.. CleVe-
land. Governor Francis is well known in
Washington. He has been here frequently,
and is exceedingly popular. He was here
cnly few days ago. and 1t was thought
when he left that he had gone to Gray
Gables. Despite the high honors he has
already achieved, he Is still comparative
ly young man, strong and vigorous and of
a genial disposition. Although taller in
stature he somewhat resembles Secretary
Morton in personal appearance. He has
f1orid complexion, sandy hair and mustache
He is said to be a man Of considerable
neans. He was said to be millionaire
few years ago
Ex-Governor D. r. Francis is nearly for
ty-six years of age having been born at
Richmond. Madison county, KY, October
l 1880 His education was received In w ASH
fngton University. ST. Louis, his fami-
ly having moved to ST. Louis. In 1870 he
graduated, receiving the degree of b. A.
His first employment was with grain
commission house, continuing until 1877,
wien he began business for himself In
1884 the D. r. Francis & Brother commits
sen house was established. result Of the
growth of his firm. That same year he be-
came president of the Merchants Ex-
change. His first political position was
that of delegate to the national democratic
convention Of 1854. In April, 1885, he was
elected mayor of St. Louis, having been
nominated a dark horse on the 1S5th
ballot In 1888 Mr.. Francis was elected
governor of Missouri. At the expiration of
his term in 1892 he resumed the manage
ment of his old friend, which had been kept
up by the members Of the house.
What Secretary Smith Says.
Secretary Smith briefly outlined his plans
In an interview today. He said:
Il will retire from office on September l.
and 1t is my purpose to return to Atlanta
the fact that l intend to support Bryan
and Sewall. l have always voted the reg
ular democratic ticket and shall make no
exception this year. 1t Is my purpose to
devote my time to the practice of law and
to my private business. ] have, however,
signifed my willingness to make two or
three speeches in Georgia for the state and
national ticket, but the time necessary for
the resumption of attention to my profess
sional aid private business will not permit
me to enter actively into the campaign out
side of my own state"
Gov. Francis' Arrival.
Gov. Francis. Secretary Smiths success
sor. will reach Washington some time be-
fore Tuesday, and is now closing Up his
affairs in Missouri. He has already for
mally signified his readiness to qualify on
the 1st proximo, when the resignation of
Mr.. Smith takes effect. The latter will leave
Immediately for the south.