Burlington weekly free press. [volume] (Burlington, Vt.) 1866-1928, 1909-05-13

SO6N.
NY hands are up DO your 'rorst."
me up with a set of views Is that the
idea? Seems to me you're the sort Of
man I'm looking for
The other smilingly shook his head.
II wouldn't dare fix up n United
States senator with set of views" he
said. Il only mean that think what
a man is is important I've been do
Ing W. shington for a number Of years.
I've had an exceptional opportunity to
see how politics work. don't be-
lieve in party politics don't believe
in parties. but do believe In men"
Langdon nodded approvingly. then a
twinkle shone In his eyes
I'VE don't believe In parties in Mis-
sissippi' he drawled. We've only
one-the Democratic party-and a few
kickers"
Hnines grinned broadly at this de-
scTipton of southern politics.
what was this you were saying
about national politics." continued the
Mississippian. I'm a beginner. you
know. and I'm always ready to learn"
This is new thing-a reporter
teaching a senator politics" laughed
Haines
Senator Langdon Joined in the merri.
ment.
II reckon reporters could teach emit
ed States senators lots Of things, Mr..
IIaines, II the senators had sense
enough to 60 to school. Now, I come
up here on a platform the chief prin-
ciple Of which is the naval base for
the gulf. Now, how are we going to
put that through? My state wants It,"
You're probably sure it will be a
wonG -rful thing for the country and
the south" suggested Haines.
"Of course
But why do you think most of the
congressman and senators will vote
for IT."
The southerner took of his hat. lean
ed back and gazed across the lobby
thoughtfully.
Seems to me the benefit to the south
and country would be sufficient reason,
Mr.. Haines." he finally replied.
The newspaper mans brain worked
rapidly. Going over the entire con-
versation with Langdon and what he
had seen Of him. he was certain that
the Mlssissippian believed what he
said-that. moreover. the belief was
deeply rooted. His long newspaper
training had educated Haines In the
ways Of men, their actions and mental
processes - what naturally TO expect
from a given set Of circumstances He
"a - g.
this unassuming old man before him,
who did not know and probably would
be slow to understand the hypocrisy,
the cunning trickery Of lawmakers
who unmake laws.
"Sufncient reason for you. senator"
Haines added. you have not been In
politics very long. have you:" he
auer1ed dryly.
A wry smile wrinked the Mississip.
plans face.
Been in long enough to learn some
unpleasant things I didn't know be.
fore" He remembered Martin San.
ders
will you allow me to tell you a
few more" asked Haines.
Langdon inclined his head in &C.
quiescence. Reckon Id better know
the worst and get through with it,"
well. then. senator. somebody from
Nebraska will vote for what you want
in the way Of the naval base because
he'll think then you'll help him de-
nand money to dredge some muddy
rrcek that he has an interest In.
Somebody in Pennsylvania will vote
Tor 1t because he owes a grudge and
wants to hurt the Philadelphia ship
people.
You'll get the Democrats because
IT'S for the south, but If your bill was
Tor the west coast they might fight Il
Tooth and nail. even with the japanese
1eet cruising dangerously near.
And the Republicans may vote fol
It because they see chance to claim
glory and perhaps break the sold
south in the next presidential cam
paign. You catch the idea?"
what" exclaimed the astounde(
Langdon.
well. who in hades will vote for Il
because It's for the good Of the United
ytates?" he gasped.
II believe you will. senator" replied
Haines, with ready confidence.