The Washington herald. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1906-1939, 1910-01-14
Mccall on "Cannonism. 4"

"Cannonism" Is the title Of a timely
article in the current issue of the Satur-
day Evening Post, which may be read
with profit by those who would know
what is really Involved In the epithet-
"Cannonism.'
II is a notable contribution TO Contem-
.poraneous discussion, because II comes,
not from a partisan Of high distinction
lnseparably amllated with the ruling
powers. whatever they be, but from a
Republican ef established reputation for
Independence in thought and action and
who halls from a district that demands
free-handed representation In Congress
Hon. Samuel W. Mccall Of Massachu-
sets.
The term "Cannonism," he says, and
truthfully. involves an Indictment not
merely of a man, but Of the American
Speakership, including, also, the general
procedure Of the House of Representa-
tives and its value as the popular legis-
iaGht tiiuIlDSi VI tiit biNlt'oN i4otiVA
In the world A great body. as a whole
the House is fairly representative OF the
American people, and it reflects the best
qualities that have been imputed to them
Therefore. TO admit the existence Of
"Cannonism" would In Mr. McCHn's
opinion. require us to draw differences
far from complimentary to the American
people"
He traces the career of Mr.. Cannon.
drawing an excellent peR-picture Of him,
and remarks, in passing, that those who
are disturbed at the Speakers ''pictur-
esQue methods Of expression would have
been no less disturbed In the case OF
Lincoln" Even his political enemies admit
that he has been a force for real econ
omy, and has saved the country millions
Of dollars" and Mr.. Mccall adds that a
careful inspection OF Dir. Cannon's record
viii not justify the opinion that he is
narrow and lacking in real political en-
terprise, end that he has shown himself
only slightly responsive 10 those progress
s!ve ideas Of broad public character
that lie outside the usual run OF party
questions"
The Massachusetts statesman, in re-
viewing 8Ir. Cannon's career in Congress
at length, shows that he has been not
only economical, but at the same time
has steadfastly supported measures tend
ing to conserve and develop the natural
resources Of the country and promote the
general good.
But it Is HIS discussion Of the system
II control OF the House. rather than his
just analysis Of the Speakers Congress
slona record and his personal tribute to
him as a man, that gives paramount and
timely Importance 20 Mr.. McCaWs arti-
cles. He finds, as every fair-minded
student Of affairs must come TO know,
that what is called Cannonism, against
which dissatisfied people are railing, is
really a system developed by the House
itself. and adhered 10 as necessary TO
transact the public's business. He says
in conclusion:
The American sysakerslip is a Development
nodded by more than century Of fierce struggle.
controlled now by party and now by another.
and it Is better ntted 10 or needs than would
be an importation from q different kind Of govern
menJ For 10 takes TeTy little Of political pdilos5-
ply 10 discern the superiority 4 those govern
mental agencies that are a growth and al adap-
tation % the conditions olc0Untered in actual
experience"
Mr. Mccall may not convince. but he.
al any rate. gives an able presentation
Of the case of the regulars.