The Lakeland evening telegram. (Lakeland, Fla.) 1911-1922, 1915-06-09
MR.. BRYAN'S RESIGNATION

The resignation of Mr.. Bryan from
the Cabinet, at this grave crisis in
the nations career, comes as a dis
tinct shock to the country, coupled
18th feeling of deep disappoint-
ment. While the people have recog-
nized the wisdom and ability of Mr..
Wilson. and have in no uncertain
manner demonstrated their conf
dence in his power to cope with the
most serious situation that has con-
fronted any president since Lincoln,
that confidence has been fostered
and strengthened by the feeling that
his policies have had the sustaining
influence of Bryan's counsel and CO.
operation. The two men have been
pictured in the public mind as
working together in complete har-
mony and unison for tie shaping
and perfecting of those policies
which would impel the nation safe
ly through the troublous times that
have come upon us. A disagreement
as to the character of these policies
was unlocked for and the circum-
stances will cause sincere regret
throughout the country.
We cannot, with the information
before us, believe that Mr. Bryans
resignation is justifiable. Having ac-
cepted the responsibilities that go
with the position with which he was
honOred, his first duty was to his
country, and we cannot conccde that
conditions, so far as apparent, We're
such as to relieve him of the obliea-
tions which he voluntarily assumed,
and which at this juncture almost
partake of the nature of a sacred
trust. Had there been in the execu-
tive's chair man of impetuous and
hot-blooded disposition, unwilling to
listen to argument or to be governed
by the calm dictates of right and
reason. there might, perhaps, be pal
liation, If not Justification, for Mr..
Bryan's detection. Bht it is diff
cult to reconcile Mr.. Wilson's utter
ances and actions with the idea that
anyone could not work in conjunc-
tiOn with him in the cause of peace
If there has ever been a man who,
in like trying times, has maintained
more peaceful attitude, or who has
shown a greater willingness to lis
ten to the cool, dispassionate coun-
sells of sober judgment, we cannot
recaly the chronicle of such in our
reading of history. And yet Mr..
Bryan resigns because he fears Will
son, the man of peace. will plunge
the country into war!
If Mr.. Bryan's contention is cor
rect that the course of the Admins
tration will involve the nation in
war, he has fastened by his own ac-
tion this very contamination, for he
has withdrawn from the only posi-
tion where he could effectually press
his own views and attempt to modify
those of his associates. OF course,
it is easier to quit than to fight on
amid complications, opposition and
embarrassment; but it is inglorious
ease that is purchased by such a
course.
Mr.. Bryan's withdrawal from the
Cabinet is to be regretted; but it
will not shake the confidence of the
people in the Chief Executive.
Whatever course he may decide upon
will have the full endorsement and
approval of the masses. If he feels
that he has done all that can be
done without sacrificing the nation
al honor to preserve peaceful rela-
tions, and that more vigorous meas
ures to enforce this country's rights
are necessary, the nation will stand
behind him Peace or war, the peo-
pie are with WILSON.