Arizona republican., 1905-05-28
Enlisted for the Fight.


 tions expressive of the sentiments of the republican and democratic parties and of the people as citizens. with the organization of a league whose work will be to defend Arizona interests in the statehood controversy, comprise Arizona's response to the organization of a joint statehood league in New Mexico.
 And in addition to the fact that the two leagues are diametrically opposed in their aims in this essential differ ence: The Arizona league represents the unanimous voice of the citizens of this territory. whereas the league or ganized at Albuquerque some weeks ago is merely representative of a fac ton. It is not a misnomer to call the Arizona expression unanimous, for while there may be here and there a citizen of this territory who is willing to acquiesce in the proposed jointure. the sentiment against jointure is so absolutely overwhelming as to be sub stantially the sentiment of the entire electorate. It is impossible to conceive of the people of any state or territory being so thoroughly in accord on any other question as are the people of Arizona in their determination to re- fuse joint statehood. On the other hand, in New Mexico there is a large opposition to the merger scheme.
 Having enlisted with enthusiasm for the fight, the people of Arizona should stay in the field until the fight is won. That the fight can be won by wise and energetic endeavor is the encour- aging feature of the situation. AL though the danger is quite as press ing as at any time in the past. it can be overcome by the right kind of work. But, as pointed out by Govern or Kibbey, Delegate Smith, ex-DeIe- gate Wilson and MT. F. NJ. Murphy in the convention yesterday afternoon. it is work which calls for the partici- patton of every citizen. It should not be assumed by the individual that his duty was finished with taking part in or approval of yesterdays proceedings It should not be assumed that, now that a league has been formed, all the duties of the struggle fall upon the officers of the league. Every man should bear his part. It is the duty of every man in Arizona to write to Un- ited States senators and urge the cry ing injustice of the proposed bill
 As Delegate Smith we'll said. his er- forts in defense of his constituents may be fruitless unless they sustain him unwaveringly 'untn the battle Is ended. Happily. MT. Smith has the satisfaction of knowing that in oppos- ing the destruction of Arizona's au- tonomy. he has the undivided support of the people regardless of politics This in itself when emphasized as it was yesterday, is bound to be an in spiration to our delegate, but to be most effective, the influence of the people must be constantly exercised MT. Smith must not be permitted to feel, when he returns to Washington. that the protests of the people are only spasmodic, and that they expect him and a few others of the terri tory's leading men to stand unsup- ported in the breach.
 Good judgment was shown in the se- lection of officers. The presidents are representative and influential men, and especial wisdom was shown in the selection of the chief executive ofic- ers-John c. Adams as president, William B. Cleary as secretary, and William D. Fulwiler as treasurer They are men of exceptional intelli- gence and energy, and each of them is noted for his ability as an organ izer. They happen to be close personal friends. and will get along finely to- gether. Moreover. each of them is on excellent terms with Mark Smith, and that Is an important fact. Their as- sistance to MT. Smith will be all the more valuable because they have his confidence and because they have con fdenee in him.