The Washburn times. [volume] (Washburn, Wis.) 1896-1976, 1901-10-24
JOHN G. SPOONER.

To what extent the opposition to
the return of Sena tor Spooner may
materialize is at present difficult
problem. But if the republicans of
Wisconsin permit any serious oppo-
sition it will be an instance of gross
ingratitude. Senator Spooner has
not only had no superior among the
representative from Wisconsin in
the senate, but he is the peer of the
ablest members of that august body.
Upon his first entrance, young 10
years and comparatively inexperi-
enced, he at once became conspicu-
GUS as a debater and legislator.
While taking a prominent part in
the discussion of all leading ques-
tions, there was about him no as
sumption or obtrusiveness. His con-
duct has at all times been marked by
modesty and courtesy. In a very
short time he acquired that conf
dence and self reliance that only
genuine manhood and true wisdom,
complimented by sound ano varied
knowledge, can insure. The people
of Wisconsin, long before the close
of his first term, realized that they
had made no mistake in honoring
John G. Spooner.
When the political revolution I'M
seated him he returned to private
life with the consciousness of duty
well performed, and with the respect
and confidence of ali the people.
When the republicans wanted a
leader of their forlorn hope in the
contest for the governorship they
instinctively turned to Spooner. AL
though much against his interests
and inclination he responded to the
call, made gallant fight and car
ried his party near to victory. When
fortune again brought the republi-
cans into power they were not un-
grateful, and spon taneously and UNI
animously restored to him his hon
ors. 1t was a graceful compliment,
well bestowed and we'll deserved.
Will anyone tell US why the COM
pliment should not be repeated?
The second term of his senatorship
has been even more fruitful OF tri-
umph than the first. He has prov
en- himself a sound constitutional
lawyer, master of statescraft, a
safe advisor and a fearless champion.
He has measured swords with the
ablest debators in the Senate, and
has been victor in every encoun ter.
II has reflected credit and honor
upon his state as few of his prede-
cessors have done. He has been
true to every pledge, to every obi
cation. None, even among his
bitterest opponents, if he has such,
can deny his eminent ability, his in
tegrity, his fitness, his faithfulness.
Why, then, should he be turned
down. Where is his equal among
probable or possible candidat es.
Does Wisconsin want to make her.
Self conspicuous by her ingratitude?
Does she want to exhibit the spec
tacle of great state dismissing a
statesman from her service aud sup
planting him with a mediocre?
We want 70 such experiments.
There have been enough of them.
This state is honored in both her
Senators. Why should the standard
be lowered? And mark, any change
likely to be made will lower the
standard. Keep it up to it's present
advanced position. Let the repub-
licans of Wisconsin see to it that not
only shall the party be guil'less of
ingratitude. but that it shall COM
nit no such folly as dismissing a
man who, under all condi tions, has
reflected honor upon his state and
party -Rhinelander New North.