The Birmingham age-herald., 1912-01-16
CONTRAST IN MEETINGS
 sOF BIG PARTY LEADERS
BY WALTER HARPER

Washington, January 15.-(Special.)- The atmosphere surrounding the meeting of the executive committees of the two great political parties in Washington was markedly different The committeeman and the camp followers of both parties rendesvoused in the lobby of the. New Willard hotel.
 In the camp of the democrats there was unmistakable confidence. Gloom sur rounded and enveloped the camp of the republicans. Samuel Blythe declared that the gloom resting over the republicans was Is feet deep all over the marble heor.' It was a fact. II was apparent to even the non-interested 1oungers about the hotel. The gloom was everywhere except in the parlors of the White House. It was not allowed to intrude upon the sacred precincts of the President. And yet the President was the cause of all the gloom. It was very distinct that the republican leaders have despaired of Taft as the leader of the party this year. They are convinced that they cannot win with him as the nominee of the party. It is a question with them if they can
 
 up.
 But they are in the embarrassing posi- ton of being forced to accept Taft even though 1t means certain defeat.
 The meeting of the democratic commit tee presented quite another condition. The democratic prospects are very bright. The party is under obligati to no man and has large assortment of good men to choose from. The majority of the pros poets are good men and available. Most any of them can win against Taft or any other man that can be put up by the op- position. Some are stronger than others, but there is distinct and commendabe disposition on the part of the democrats to harmonize. There is better prospect for harmony among the democrats than among the republicans.
 There was no appearance of gloom or uncertainty among the democratic com- mitteemen or the camp-followers of the party. The Jackson day dinner with the active attendance of a number of the presidential prospects, was an event of harmonious confidence. All the canor- dates and prospective candidates received a respectful hearing and impartial ap- plause Others who did not attend had their friends present and had the men themselves been present they would have received equal consideration.
 In the actual deliberations of the committee there was no disturbing ele- ment that will have it's effect on the ultimate success of the party. There were differences of opinion and conten- tion for varying policies. but these were fought out on a high plane and settled.
 The business deliberations of the re- publican committee was without a hitch. It was all over in a very short time. They had but little to do. There was but one or two things they could do. There was nothing to discuss. All action affecting party policy was pre- meditated and prearranged. It was Taft. It could be nothing else. The committee closed it's eyes twisted up it's face and took it's medicine But it was a bitter dose. The individuals as individuals did not attempt to conceal the fact that the dose was bitter.
 The tragedy of the whole proceed ing was the effect the gloom had on the committeeman from the south who know nothing but the mellow voice of the administration. They were dumb founded at the anti-Taft sentiment. They were utterly overcome by the gloom. Though they tried to look cheer ful, they returned to their homes to carry out instructions-do the only thing they can do--but with sadly shaken confidence
 If Mir. Taft continues in the dark and is not informed of his absolute inavaii- ability he will continue in the race ani will be nominated. If he is made wise to the situation he will probably continue in the race because he cannot gracefully do otherwise. The party is chained 10 him. body and soul, and he must march serenely to the slaughter.
 Colonel Roosevelt wants to save the situation and stands ready to offer him self up for sacrifice. There is general opinion in Washington that Taft and Roosevelt have clear understanding pe- tween themselves. Roosevelt will not op- pose Taft if Taft remains in the race and Is supported by d majority of the party. But if Taft weakens and there is breaK