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diff --git a/22037.txt b/22037.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a0d934e --- /dev/null +++ b/22037.txt @@ -0,0 +1,9722 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Life, Public Services and Select +Speeches of Rutherford B. Hayes, by James Quay Howard + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Life, Public Services and Select Speeches of Rutherford B. Hayes + +Author: James Quay Howard + +Release Date: July 10, 2007 [EBook #22037] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LIFE OF RUTHERFORD HAYES *** + + + + +Produced by Bryan Ness, Marcia Brooks, and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This book was produced +from scanned images of public domain material from the Google Print +project.) + + + + + + + + + +[Illustration: RUTHERFORD B. HAYES.] + +THE LIFE + +PUBLIC SERVICES AND SELECT SPEECHES + +OF + +RUTHERFORD B. HAYES + +BY + +J. Q. HOWARD + +CINCINNATI +ROBERT CLARKE & CO + +1876 + + + + +Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1876, by +ROBERT CLARKE & CO. + +In the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. + +Stereotyped by OGDEN, CAMPBELL & CO., Cincinnati. + + + + +CONTENTS. + + +CHAPTER I. + +ANCESTRY. + + Line of Descent--Family Tradition--Indian Fighters--Grandfather + Rutherford--Chloe Smith Hayes--Father and + Mother--Characteristics--Tribute to a Sister--General Character + of Ancestors 9 + + +CHAPTER II. + +BOYHOOD AND EDUCATION. + + Birthplace--University--Springs--Kossuth's Allusion--Early + Instructors--Sent East--College Life--Began the Study of Law--At + Harvard Law School--Story, Greenleaf, Webster, Agassiz, and + Longfellow--Admission to Bar 15 + + +CHAPTER III. + +AT THE BAR. + + Commences Practice--First Case--Partnership with Ralph P. + Buckland--Settles in Cincinnati--Becoming Known--Literary + Club--Nancy Farrer Case--Summons Case--Marriage--Law + Partners--City Solicitor 22 + + +CHAPTER IV. + +IN THE FIELD. + + Appointed Major--Judge Advocate--Lieutenant-Colonel--South + Mountain--Wounded--Fighting while Down--After Morgan--Battle of + Cloyd Mountain--Charge up the Mountain--Enemy's Works Carried by + Storm--First Battle of Winchester--Berryville 31 + + +CHAPTER V. + +FROM MAJOR TO MAJOR-GENERAL. + + Opequan--Morass--First Over--Intrepidity--Official + Reports--Assault on Fisher's Hill--Battle of Cedar + Creek--Commands a Division--Promoted on Field--His Wounds--A + Hundred Days under Fire 43 + + +CHAPTER VI. + +IN CONGRESS. + + Nomination--Refuses to Leave Army--Election + Incident--Election--Course in Congress--Services on Library + Committee--Votes on Various Questions--Submits Plan of + Constitutional Amendments--Re-nominated by + Acclamation--Re-elected by Increased Majority--Overwhelmed with + Soldiers' Letters--Character as Congressman 51 + + +CHAPTER VII. + +ELECTED GOVERNOR OF OHIO. + + Party of States Rights--Their Convention--Platform--Nomination of + Thurman--Republican Convention and Platform--Nomination of + General Hayes--Opening Speech at Lebanon--Thurman at + Waverly--National Interest Aroused--Hayes + Victorious--Inaugural--First Annual Message--Second Annual + Message 62 + + +CHAPTER VIII. + +SECOND ELECTION AS GOVERNOR. + + Re-nomination--Democratic Platform--Nomination of + Rosecrans--Declines--Pendleton Nominated--Hayes at + Wilmington--Election--Second Inaugural--Civil Service + Reform--Short Addresses--Letters--Annual Message--Democratic + Estimate of It--Davidson Fountain Address--Message of 1872--Work + Accomplished 90 + + +CHAPTER IX. + +THIRD TIME ELECTED GOVERNOR. + + The Senatorship Declined--Army Banquet Speech--Third Time + Nominated for Congress--Glendale Speech--Declines a Federal + Office--Making a Home--Nomination for + Governor--Platform--Serenade Speech--Democratic Convention and + Platform--Marion Speech of + Hayes--Woodford--Grosvenor--Schurz--Inflation Drivel--Interest + in the Contest--Honest Money Triumphant--Third Inaugural 124 + + +CHAPTER X. + +NOMINATION TO THE PRESIDENCY. + + Early Suggestions--Letters on Subject--Garfield Letter--Action of + State Convention--Cincinnati Convention--Course of his Friends-- + First and Second Day's Events--Speech of Noyes--Balloting-- + Nominated on Seventh Ballot--Officially Notified--Habits--Personal + Appearance--Family--Letter of Acceptance--Character as a Soldier, + Magistrate, and Man--Domestic Surroundings 143 + + +APPENDIX. + + I. Speech at Lebanon, Ohio, August 5, 1867 167 + + II. Speech at Sidney, Ohio, September 4, 1867 202 + +III. Speech on his Re-nomination, June 23, 1869 222 + + IV. Speech at Zanesville, Ohio, August 24, 1871 231 + + V. Speech at Marion, Ohio, July 31, 1875 241 + + VI. Speech at Fremont, June 25, 1876. 256 + + + + +LIFE + +OF + +RUTHERFORD B. HAYES. + + + + +CHAPTER I. + +ANCESTRY. + + _Line of Descent--Family Tradition--Indian Fighters--Grandfather + Rutherford--Chloe Smith Hayes--Father and Mother--Characteristics-- + Tributes to a Sister--General Character of Ancestors._ + + +George Hayes, of Scotland, came to America by the way of England, and +settled at Windsor, in the Colony of Connecticut, in 1682. He married, +in 1683, Abigail Dibble, who was born on Long Island in 1666. From these +ancestors the direct line of descent to the Republican candidate for +President of the United States is the following: + +George Hayes, Abigail Dibble. +Daniel Hayes, Sarah Lee. +Ezekiel Hayes, Rebecca Russell. +Rutherford Hayes, Chloe Smith. +Rutherford Hayes, Sophia Birchard. + +The earlier family traditions connect the name and descent of George +Hayes with the fighting plowman mentioned in Scottish history, who at +Loncarty, in Perthshire, turned back the invaders of his country, in a +narrow pass, with the sole aid of his own valorous sons. + +"Pull your plow and harrow to pieces, and fight," said the sturdy +Scotchman to his sons. They fought, father and sons together, and won. A +like command seems to have come down the centuries to an American-born +son--"Tear your briefs and petitions to pieces, and fight." He also +fought, and, though sorely wounded, won. Shall the crown of valor be +withheld by a free people that was once bestowed by a Scottish king? + +Daniel Hayes, the third of the ten children of George Hayes, was born at +Windsor, in 1686. At the age of twenty-three, while fighting in defense +of Simsbury--now Granby--to which town his father's family had removed, +he was captured and carried off by the French and Indians. He was held +as a prisoner in Canada for five years, and being a young man of great +physical strength and vigor, the Indians adopted him as one of their +race. His freedom was finally purchased through the intervention of a +Frenchman, the colonial assembly of Connecticut, sitting at New Haven, +having made an appropriation of public funds in aid of that specific +purpose. An account of the captivity of this early defender of New +England homes is found in Phelps' "History of Simsbury, Granby, and +Canton." The wife of Daniel Hayes was the daughter of John Lee, who was +noted for his bravery in fighting Indians. + +Captain Ezekiel Hayes, who gained his title in the military service of +the Colonies, married the great-granddaughter of the Rev. John Russell, +the famous preacher of Wethersfield and Hadley, who concealed the +regicides at Hadley for many years. + +Rutherford Hayes, the grandfather of the subject of our biography, was +born at New Haven, Connecticut, July 29, 1756. He married, in 1779, at +West Brattleboro, Vermont--whither he had removed the year before--Chloe +Smith, whose ancestry fill a large space in the "History of Hadley," +several of whom lost their lives while fighting in defense their own and +neighboring towns. From this fortunate and happy union, which continued +unbroken for fifty-eight years, have sprung a race of accomplished women +and honor-deserving men. One daughter married the Hon. John Noyes, of +New Hampshire, who served in Congress 1817-19, and died in 1841, at +Putney, Vermont. A daughter of this marriage is the mother of Larkin G. +Meade, the sculptor; whose sister is the wife of William D. Howells, the +novelist, and present editor of the _Atlantic Monthly_. Another daughter +of Rutherford and Chloe Smith Hayes married the Hon. Samuel Elliott, of +Vermont, who attained distinction in Congress and as an author. + +In a diary still existing, kept by Chloe Smith Hayes when she was eighty +years of age, are found evidences of this good woman's intellectual +cleverness and vigor, and abounding proofs of her fruit-bearing piety +and affectionate tenderness for her offspring and kindred. At this +advanced age she seems a philosophical observer of natural phenomena and +political events--minutely describing eclipses, floods, and storms--and, +while moralizing over the inauguration and death of President Harrison, +giving expression to the shadowy hope that wise and good men would take +the helm of government, and, rebuked by the presence of death, be taught +the lesson of mortality. Rutherford, the grandfather, bore the +commission, dated 1782, of Governor George Clinton as an officer in the +military service of the State of New York. + +Rutherford Hayes, the father of Governor R. B. Hayes, was born at West +Brattleboro, Vermont, January 4, 1787. On the 19th day of September, +1813, he was married, at Wilmington, Vermont, to Sophia Birchard, +daughter of Roger Birchard and Drusilla Austin Birchard, of that place. +The Birchards had emigrated from England to Saybrook and Norwich, +Vermont, as early as 1635. They soon became men of note in Norwich and +Lebanon, and many of their descendants have continued to be men of mark +since that time. The family has had representatives in Congress from +Illinois and Wisconsin, and noted members of it in the pulpit in New +York and elsewhere. + +Rutherford Hayes was engaged in business as a merchant at Dummerston, +Vermont, until 1817, in which year he removed to Delaware, Ohio, with +his family, consisting at the time of a wife and two children. In +January, 1820, a daughter--Fanny--was born, and in October of the +following year, a daughter, at the age of four, was lost. In July, 1822, +Rutherford Hayes, the father, died of malarial fever; at the age of +thirty-five; and on the 4th of the following October was born Rutherford +Birchard Hayes, the since distinguished son. Three years later, the +widowed mother was called to suffer a most distressing calamity in the +death, by drowning, of Lorenzo, aged ten, a hopeful and helpful son. + +The father of Governor Hayes was a quick, bright, accurate, active +business man. He possessed both energy and executive ability. He had the +independence which intelligence gives, and his dry humor served him well +in exposing shams and exploding humbugs. He was rigidly honest, and was, +in the words of one of his neighbors, "as good a citizen as ever lived +in the town of Delaware." He could do a great deal of work, and do it +well. He was a witty, social, popular man, who made warm friends and few +enemies. + +The mother of Governor Hayes united force of character with sweetness of +nature. Her self-reliant energy is shown by her making a trip, in the +summer of 1824, to Vermont and back--a distance of sixteen hundred +miles. The journey had to be performed by stage, and consumed two months +in going and returning. She made a second journey to New England when +Rutherford was nine years old. Her amiability of disposition made her +the favorite guest at the homes of her neighbors. The straightened +circumstances of a family deprived of its head required the aid of +industry and economy. She was known, in village parlance, as a "good +manager." Afflictions which would have made perfect a more faulty +character purified her own. She died in Columbus, Ohio, October 30, +1866, at the age of seventy-four. She had been a consistent member of +the Presbyterian Church for fifty years. + +Mrs. William A. Platt, the sister of Governor Hayes, who died July 16, +1856, at the age of thirty-six, was a lady whose virtues and good deeds +are enduring memories in Columbus homes. The Hon. Aaron F. Perry, of +Cincinnati, in a public address, made this allusion to her worth: "Mrs. +Platt, in the prime of a happy womanhood, passed beautifully away; not +a white hair on her head, not a wrinkle on her brow, not a cloud upon +her hopes; but in the full maturity of life and love she has gone where +life and happiness are perfected." He whose character it is our duty to +make known reflects this tender light from two lives: "She loved me as +an only sister loves a brother whom she imagines almost perfect, and I +loved her as an only brother loves a sister who is perfect. Let me be +just and truthful, wise and pure and good for her sake. How often I +think of her! I read of the death of any one worthy of love, and she is +in my thoughts. I see--but all things high and holy remind me of her." + +The conclusions which we draw from the examination of the records of the +ancestral descent of Rutherford B. Hayes are, that his progenitors have +in each generation displayed courage and capacity to fight limited only +by the strength of the enemy to hold out. It was a habit they had to +fight on the side in the right, and on the side that won. Three of his +immediate ancestors--Elias Birchard, Israel Smith, and Daniel +Austin--gave proofs of valor and patriotism in the War of Independence. +Another characteristic of the Hayes stock is the almost uniform tendency +toward longevity. It is a robust race, presenting an extraordinary +number of large families. The divine injunction to increase and multiply +has been obeyed with religious fidelity. Upon the whole, the stock is +good, and bids fair to become better. As men suffer discredit from +disreputable progenitors, they ought to enjoy credit from reputable +ancestors. + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +BOYHOOD AND EDUCATION. + + _Birthplace--University--Springs--Kossuth's Allusion--Early + Instructors--Sent East--College Life--Began the Study of Law--At + Harvard Law School--Story, Greenleaf, Webster, Agassiz, and + Longfellow--Admission to the Bar._ + + +The town of Delaware, the county seat of the county of Delaware, is +located near the center of Ohio, twenty-five miles northwest of +Columbus. It is a prosperous place of seven thousand people, the most of +whom live in comfortable-looking, newly-built homes, and has been +hitherto chiefly known for its University and its Springs. The Ohio +Wesleyan University is the most flourishing literary institution of the +great Methodist denomination in the West. The White Sulphur Spring is a +fountain of healing and happiness to the whole region around, and is +regarded with added interest since Kossuth came to drink of its waters, +and, in reply to a welcoming address, eloquently said, that "out of the +Delaware Springs of American sympathy he would fill a cup of health for +his bleeding Hungary." + +Three squares from these Springs, near the center of the town, and in a +two-story brick house on William street, Rutherford Birchard Hayes was +born. This has long been Delaware's pride, and will be its fame. The +income of his widowed mother, who was bereft of her husband four mouths +before her son's birth, was derived from the rent of a good farm lying +two miles north of Delaware, on the east side of the Whetstone. This +income, used with frugality, enabled her to commence the education of +her children. They were sent first to the ordinary schools of the town. +The first teacher who enlisted the affections of her since distinguished +pupil was Mrs. Joan Murray, a most worthy woman, whose funeral Governor +Hayes quite recently attended. He began the study of the Latin and Greek +languages with Judge Sherman Finch, a good classical scholar and a good +lawyer, of Delaware, who had been at one time a tutor in Yale College. +Judge Finch heard the recitations of his pupil in his office at +intervals of leisure from the duties of his profession. The pupil taught +his sister each day what his instructor taught him. + +Through the agency of his uncle, Sardis Birchard, his guardian, who at +this time took charge of his education, Rutherford was sent to an +academy at Norwalk, Ohio. Here he remained one year under the +instruction of the Rev. Mr. Chapman, a Methodist clergyman of scholarly +attainments. In the fall of 1837, to complete his preparation for +college, he was sent to quite a noted school at Middletown, Connecticut, +kept by Isaac Webb. Mr. Webb, being a graduate of Yale, made a specialty +of preparing students for admission to Yale College. His scholars came +from every part of the United States. In one year, his Ohio pupil's +preparatory course was completed. The character established by him at +this school is made known in the concluding portion of a commendatory +letter addressed by Isaac Webb, his instructor, to Mrs. Sophia Hayes, +which reads: + +"The conduct of your son has hitherto done 'honor to his mother,' and +has secured our sincere respect and esteem. I hope and trust that he +will continue to be a great source of happiness to you." + +The first prize for proficiency in Latin, Greek, and Arithmetic was +awarded at this academy to "R. B. Hayes." + +In the fall of 1838, at the age of sixteen, young Hayes entered Kenyon +College, Ohio, after passing satisfactorily the usual examination for +admission. This institution is situated forty miles north of Columbus, +in the village of Gambier, which is celebrated for the secluded beauty +of its lawns and groves. The College was founded by Bishop Chase, with +funds collected by him in England, the principal donors being Lord +Gambier and Lord Kenyon. The institution was long under the fostering +care of Bishop McIlvaine of blessed memory. + +Young Hayes excelled as a debater in the literary societies and in all +the college studies; but his tastes especially ran to logic, mental and +moral philosophy, and mathematics. In the words of a college mate, now a +very distinguished lawyer, he was remarkable in college for "great +common sense in his personal conduct; never uttered a profane word; +behaved always like a considerate, mature man." In the language of +another able member of the legal profession, who followed after him at +Kenyon: "Hayes had left a memory which was a fascination, a glowing +memory; he was popular, magnanimous, manly; was a noble, chivalrous +fellow, of great promise." + +On the general points of character, conduct, and scholarship, it is +conclusive to say that, when graduation-day came, Rutherford B. Hayes +was found to have been awarded the valedictory, which was the highest +honor the faculty could bestow upon a member of his class. Although the +youngest in years, he was found the oldest in knowledge. In three +journals published in August, 1842, the month and year of his +graduation, we find exceptionally warm commendations of his valedictory +oration. The Mt. Vernon _Democratic Banner_ said: "All who heard this +oration pronounced it the best, in every point of view, ever delivered +on the hill at Gambier." + +In the class with Governor Hayes were Lorin Andrews, afterward President +of the College, who fell in the war for the Union, and the Hon. Guy M. +Bryan, late member of Congress, and present speaker of the Texas House +of Representatives, who, although engaged in the rebellion, has paid a +manly tribute to his College classmate since the presidential +nomination. + +In other college classes at the same time were Stanley Matthews, now one +of the ablest lawyers in the United States; Hon. Joseph McCorkle and +Hon. R. E. Trowbridge, afterward members of Congress from California and +Michigan respectively; and Christopher P. Wolcott, who subsequently +filled with high distinction the office of attorney-general of Ohio, and +was also assistant secretary of war. + +Kenyon College and its graduates bestowed additional honors upon the +valedictorian of the class of 1842. In 1845, he was invited back by the +faculty to take the second degree, and deliver what is known as the +Master's oration. He was invited also by the alumni to deliver the +annual address before them, both in 1851 and in 1853. All these honors +he modestly declined. + +Soon after graduating, Mr. Hayes began the study of the law in the +office of Thomas Sparrow, of Columbus. Mr. Sparrow was a lawyer of high +standing, whose integrity was proverbial. Although a Democrat in +politics, he was regarded by his political adversaries as the purest of +pure men. This worthy instructor certifies to the "great diligence" and +"good moral character" of his student on the latter's departure to +attend a course of law lectures at Harvard. A taste for the legal +profession had been very early developed by young Hayes. The proceedings +of courts had possessed to him in boyhood peculiar interest. + +Judge Ebenezer Lane, long a Justice of the Supreme Court of Ohio, an +intimate associate of Sardis Birchard, the patron uncle, had early +turned the thoughts of the guardian of the nephew in the direction of +the law. + +Rutherford B. Hayes entered the law school of Harvard University, August +22, 1843, and finished the course of lectures, January 8, 1845. The law +institution was at this time under the charge of Mr. Justice Story, +whose eminence as a jurist is only surpassed by that of his bosom +friend, the great Chief Justice, John Marshall. He enjoyed the +friendship and counsel of Story, and also that of Prof. Simon Greenleaf, +who bears testimony to his diligence, exemplary conduct, and demeanor. +He kept a minute record, still preserved, of all the trials and +proceedings of the moot courts, presided over by Professors Greenleaf +and Story, and pages of authorities are cited where "R. B. Hayes" +appears as counsel for the fictitious plaintiff or defendant. It might +have been safely assumed that a young man of his quick perceptions while +in the atmosphere of Boston would make the most of his opportunities and +advantages. He attended the lectures of Prof. Longfellow on the +literature of foreign languages. He profited by the lecture-room talks +of the great scientist, Agassiz, upon the grand theme of nature. +Watching his opportunities, he heard Webster deliver his model arguments +before juries, and his great political speeches in Faneuil Hall. He +visited John Quincy Adams at his home in Quincy, with a party of his +fellow-students, who, when he learned that some of his visitors were +from Ohio, read to them a part of an address Mr. Adams was about to +deliver on the laying of the corner-stone of the Observatory on Mt. +Adams, near Cincinnati. + +He renewed and prosecuted with ardor the study of the French and German +languages, both of which he now translates with ease, and speaks the +former with reasonable fluency. + +Leaving with regret the classic shades of Cambridge, and parting from +fellow-students such as George Hoadly, Manning F. Force, and the since +famous orator, J. B. L. Curry, of Alabama, he returned to Ohio an +educated young man. He was fitted for the battle of life which he has +since so courageously fought, so far as America can afford facilities +for procuring a complete, symmetrical education. Impatient to begin the +struggle in his profession, he proceeded to Marietta, where the +ambulatory Supreme Court of Ohio was then sitting, and having passed +before an examining committee, composed of Messrs. Hart, Gardiner, Buel, +and Robinson, was duly admitted to practice in the courts of the State +as attorney and counsellor at law. The certificate of admission, which +is dated March 10, 1845, has so good a name attached to it as that of +Thomas W. Ewart, clerk. The Plymouth of the West had therefore the honor +of welcoming to the bar the rising son of the West. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +AT THE BAR. + + _Commences Practice--First Case--Partnership with Ralph P. + Buckland--Settles in Cincinnati--Becoming Known--Literary + Club--Nancy Farrer Case--Summons' Case--Marriage--Law + Partners--City Solicitor._ + + +The young lawyer, R. B. Hayes, full of hopefulness and ambition, +commenced the practice of the law at Lower Sandusky, now Fremont, +Sandusky county, Ohio. This growing town of Northern Ohio was selected +because it was the home of the uncle whose extensive business +connections would naturally throw more or less law business into the +nephew's hands. + +His first case was one against a sheriff's sureties, the sheriff having +become insolvent. There were five or six bondsmen, who employed as many +different lawyers, who of course made a fierce fight to protect the +pockets of their clients. The pleadings were difficult under the old +practice, and the slightest technical defect in them would adroitly be +taken advantage of by the defendants' attorneys. But so accurately had +the pleadings been drawn, and so well had the case been worked up by the +young lawyer, that no flaw could be found, and his suit was at all +points successful. + +After this success he had a good run of office business, and was +employed both in the defense and prosecution of criminals. In April, +1846, he entered into a law-partnership with Ralph P. Buckland, an +older practitioner in good practice. Mr. Buckland subsequently became a +conspicuous member of the Ohio Senate, and a gallant officer of the rank +of brigadier-general in the war. He became a member also of the +Thirty-ninth Congress. + +One of the most important cases tried by Hayes while a member of this +firm was an action to prevent or enjoin the building of a railway bridge +across the Bay of Sandusky, on the ground of its obstructing navigation. +The cause was tried before Judge McLean, in the United States District +Court at Cincinnati. Thomas Ewing, who was one of the opposing counsel +in the case, continued to compliment Hayes during life for this maiden +effort in a United States Court. + +In November, 1848, in consequence of bleeding at the lungs and other +alarming admonitions of failing health, Mr. Hayes left Fremont to pass a +winter with his friend, Guy M. Bryan, in Texas. A half year of boating, +fishing, hunting, and scouring the prairies brought about a physical +revolution. He came back as sound as a dollar--that is, a coin +dollar--and has so remained ever since. + +In December, 1849, he put in execution a design for some time +contemplated, and on Christmas eve arrived in Cincinnati. He had +consulted professional friends in Cincinnati about seeking the stimulus +of a wider field for permanent occupation, and was doubtless influenced +somewhat by the advice received. One who had been with him at Harvard +wrote: "I have not flattered the face of man or woman for years, but I +think honestly that the R. B. Hayes whom I knew four years ago would be +sure to succeed at this bar, if he can afford to live and wait." +Another professional brother, on terms of intimacy, wrote: "With your +energies, talents, education, and address, you are green--verdant as +grass--to stay in a country village." On the 8th of January, 1850, the +new candidate for public and professional favor took possession of an +office on the south side of Third street, between Main and Sycamore, +opposite the Henrie House. His office companion was John W. Herron, with +whose appearance and manners the new comer seems to have been well +pleased. The first year in Cincinnati brought little professional +business, but no day was passed in idleness. His studies were +systematic, and his reading comprehensive in both law and literature. +Shakespeare, Burke, Webster, and Emerson were his inseparable +companions. He sought to widen the circle of his acquaintances, and add +daily to the number of his friends. Having been a member of the order of +Odd-Fellows and Sons of Temperance in Fremont, he united again with +those organizations in Cincinnati. The addresses he was invited to +deliver at Odd-Fellow's lodges and at many more public places were very +numerous. In this way he made reputation as a public speaker, if not +money. He was not only becoming known, but becoming favorably known. + +The widely renowned literary club of Cincinnati, which he joined in +1850, and of which he remained an active member for eleven years, +awakened his social sympathies and ardent interest. To the reading of +essays, and to the discussions on political, social, and moral +questions, he always listened, and in the latter often took part. In +debate, he was strong, eager, clear, and logical. He had an aptitude at +seeing principles and getting at the kernel of questions. Among those +who during these years participated in the social or literary +entertainments of the club-room were Chief Justice Chase, Thomas Corwin, +Thomas Ewing, father and son, General Pope, General Edward F. Noyes, +Stanley Matthews, M. D. Conway, Manning F. Force, W. K. Rogers, John W. +Herron, D. Thew Wright, Isaac Collins, Charles P. James, R. D. Mussey, +and many others of ability and distinction. In January, 1852, the +opportunity for "getting a start" in his professional career came. While +making a sensible, energetic little speech in behalf of a criminal +indicted for grand larceny, named Cunningham, he attracted the attention +and won the commendation of Judge R. B. Warden, then president judge of +the criminal court, who thereupon appointed the modest young attorney +counsel for Nancy Farrer, whose case became the great criminal case of +the term, if not of the times. + +Nancy Farrer had poisoned all the members of two families. She had a bad +countenance, a sinister, revolting look. It is not strange that she +should have been considered by the court and jury that tried her, and by +the entire public, a qualified candidate for the gallows. Hayes, in +defending his client, had to contend against the passions, the +indignation of the public, and the predispositions and prejudices of +judge and jury. The judge who tried the case was not the one who +appointed the comparatively unknown attorney as counsel. Hayes saw +instinctively the immense importance of the case, and knew intuitively +that a crisis had come in his career. He set laboriously to work to +establish an impregnable line of defense. + +He found on examination of the proofs that the supposed murderess was +totally irresponsible, because of hereditary idiocy and insanity. Her +father had died of drunkenness in a Cincinnati hospital, and her mother +went about under the insane hallucination that she was a prophetess. +Nancy's conduct and conversations while employed in the wholesale +poisoning business showed that she had no moral comprehension of what +she was about. But the plea of insanity had been so often and so +vehemently pressed in defense of prisoners who were sane that it seemed +to be of no avail in defense of one who was not. The cry of insanity, +like that of "wolf," had been so repeatedly raised when there was no +insanity, that it was not heeded when there was. Notwithstanding an +argument which for legal learning and forensic eloquence attracted the +attention of the press and bar, and established the counsel's +reputation, the poor, insane idiot was convicted of murder in the first +degree. Hayes at once obtained a writ of error, which the district court +reserved for decision in the Supreme Court of the State. The case was +argued and determined in that court at the December term, 1858, and +reported in 2 Ohio St. Reports. R. B. Hayes appeared for plaintiff in +error, and George E. Pugh, attorney-general for the State. The earnest +and determined advocate of Nancy Farrer carried his points, obtained a +new trial, and greatly enhanced his professional reputation. The then +official reporter of the Supreme Court of Ohio, who heard this argument, +says: "It was a truly admirable effort, and the peroration was +indescribably pathetic. But on this occasion, as on all others, Mr. +Hayes was singularly modest." Although a new trial was granted, through +the concurring opinions of Justices Corwin, Thurman, and Ranney, Nancy +Farrer was never again tried. She was sent to a lunatic asylum. + +Hayes next gained reputation through his connection with the notorious +James Summons murder case. He was employed by the older counsel in the +case to take notes of the testimony and record the rulings of the court. +The trial occupying many days and many differences arising between +counsel with respect to the rulings of the court, it was found that the +accuracy of the notes of the junior attorney was in every instance +confirmed by the court itself. When the time came for the final +arguments to begin, the leading counsel asked each a day for each side. +Judge Thurman, then presiding, on consultation with Judge Piatt, +announced that the court could only give the leading counsel two hours +each, but that they would allow Mr. Hayes one hour additional. +Notwithstanding the court was assured that Mr. Hayes was not strictly +employed in the case, Judges Thurman, Matthews, and Piatt insisted upon +hearing him, and he was accordingly heard. His unpremeditated argument +was clear, convincing, impassioned, and impressive. It was one of the +best speeches of his life. The case went up to the Supreme Court with +the junior as the leading counsel. + +We now reach an event in the course of this narrative, which, +controlling as is the influence it has upon all lives, has been +immeasurably potent in its influence upon the life and fortunes of +Governor Hayes. + +On the 30th of December, 1852, he was married to Miss Lucy W. Webb, by +Prof. L. D. McCabe, of the Ohio Wesleyan University. The marriage took +place at No. 141 Sixth street, Cincinnati, the bride's home, in the +presence of about forty friends. Lucy Ware Webb was the daughter of Dr. +James Webb and Maria Cook Webb. Dr. Webb was a popular gentleman and +successful practicing physician in Chillicothe, Ohio. In 1833, he died +of cholera in Lexington, Kentucky, where he had gone to complete +arrangements for sending to Liberia slaves set free by himself and his +father. The grandfather of Mrs. Dr. Webb was Lieutenant-Colonel Cook, +who in 1777 was serving in a regiment commanded by Colonel Andrew Ward, +in the army of the Revolution. Both Governor and Mrs. Hayes are, +therefore, descendants of soldiers of the Revolution, most worthily +uniting in their lineage jointly the dawn of the second century with the +dawn of the first. The six years following 1852 were years of full +practice and exacting labors, in which disappointments were few and +successes many. These were years in which solid foundations were laid +for as solid a reputation as it was possible for the men among whom he +moved to build up. + +In January, 1854, he formed a law-partnership with R. M. Corwine and W. +K. Rogers, under the firm name of Corwine, Hayes & Rogers. This proved a +partnership of friendship as well as business, being in every way +satisfactory and agreeable. Mr. Rogers is now the close companion of his +old partner in these later and more eventful years. Mr. Corwine died a +resident of Washington City, a year or two since. + +In April, 1859, he was, without solicitation, chosen city solicitor by +the city council of Cincinnati, to fill the vacancy caused by the death +of Judge Hart, and on the 9th of that month entered upon the discharge +of his official duties. His chief competitor for this office was Caleb +B. Smith, since a member of Mr. Lincoln's cabinet. The vote in the city +council on the first ballot was: Mr. Smith, 13; Mr. Disney, 12; Mr. +Hayes, 3. On the seventh ballot, Mr. Hayes had 17; Mr. Ware, 12; and Mr. +Disney, 3. On the thirteenth ballot, Mr. Hayes was declared elected, +having received 18 votes to Mr. Ware's 14. His election was due to the +vote of Mr. Toohey, a Democratic councilman of the Thirteenth Ward. The +election of Hayes to his first office was most favorably received. + +The Cincinnati _Commercial_, of December 9, 1858, said: "R. B. Hayes, +Esq., one of the most honest and capable young lawyers of the city, was +elected city solicitor last night by the city council to fill the +vacancy occasioned by the death of Judge Hart. It would have been very +difficult to have made any other selection of a solicitor equally +excellent and as generally satisfactory." + +The Cincinnati _Enquirer_, of the same date, said: "Mr. Hayes, the city +solicitor elect, is a lawyer of good acquirements and reputation, and is +well qualified for the position." + +Charles Reemelin, in a letter to the New York _Evening Post_, wrote: "I +know of no young man in our city of higher promise than Mr. Hayes, and +we hope for him a bright future." + +The estimate of the people seemed to correspond with that of the press, +for in the following spring he was elected to the office to which he had +been appointed by a majority of two thousand five hundred and +thirty-six on the popular vote. His Democratic opponent was W. T. +Forrest. + +He filled the office of corporation counsel for three years, during +which time, as legal adviser of the municipal government of a great +city, he passed judgment upon questions involving large interests, and +discharged with high fidelity the duties of an important trust. As city +solicitor, the opinion which perhaps aroused the most general attention +and interest, was one delivered in February, 1859, denying the right of +the city council to contract debts for waterworks purposes, without +additional authority from the General Assembly. He was opposed to the +increase of taxation and creation of new debts, on principle. In April, +1861, in common with the entire Republican ticket, he was defeated for +re-election as city solicitor. His vote, however, was larger than that +of any candidate on his ticket. He had suffered a similar defeat in the +fall of 1856, when a candidate for Common Pleas Judge, his party being +in a decided minority in Hamilton county. Had the election of 1861 +occurred two weeks later, when the great uprising came with the fall of +Sumter, the Republican war ticket, not the Democratic compromise ticket, +would have carried the day. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +IN THE FIELD. + + _Appointed Major--Judge Advocate--Lieutenant-Colonel--South + Mountain--Wounded--Fighting while Down--After Morgan--Battle of + Cloyd Mountain--Charge up the Mountain--Enemy's Works Carried by + Storm--First Battle of Winchester--Berryville._ + + +That a loyal citizen of the antecedents, ardent patriotism, and +impulsive nature of Rutherford B. Hayes would enter the army in the war +for the Union, was to be looked for as a thing of course. He had been in +the habit of obeying every call of duty, and could not therefore disobey +when duty called loudest. He regarded the war waged for the supremacy of +the constitution and the laws as a just and necessary war, and preferred +to go into it if he knew he "was to die or be killed in the course of +it." He had been a most earnest advocate of the election of Mr. Lincoln +to the Presidency, and had been an anti-slavery man of established +convictions long before the candidacy of Fremont for the Presidency. He +did not think the Union should be destroyed to make slavery perpetual. +He desired to mitigate and finally eradicate that evil. He had prayed +for the election of General Harrison for the sake of the country; he had +cast his first vote for Henry Clay, his second for General Taylor, and +his third for General Scott. But the old Whig party having ceased to be +a living organization, he gave his whole heart to the Republican party +and its cause, and by political speeches, and in other ways, helped +forward the movement in favor of equality of rights and laws. The insult +to the flag at Fort Sumter aroused to the intensest pitch the patriotic +indignation of a united North. At a great mass-meeting held in +Cincinnati, R. B. Hayes was selected to give expression to the loyal +voice, by being made chairman of the public committee on resolutions. It +is not needful to add that these resolutions had all the fire and +intensity of the popular feeling. The knowledge that it was his purpose +to enter the Union army having reached Governor Dennison, that officer +appointed Hayes major of the Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, June +7, 1861. With this appointment was coupled the appointments of W. S. +Rosecrans as colonel, and Stanley Matthews as lieutenant-colonel of the +same regiment. Colonel Rosecrans, with the other field-officers, had +just set to work organizing the new regiment, when Rosecrans was +appointed brigadier-general, and ordered to take command of the Ohio +troops moving in the direction of Western Virginia. Upon the promotion +of Rosecrans, Colonel E. P. Scammon, an officer of military education, +was placed in command of the Twenty-third. + +After a brief period of discipline at Camp Chase the regiment was +ordered, on the 25th of July, to Clarksburgh, West Virginia, and on the +29th went into camp at Weston. We shall not follow it in this or in +subsequent campaigns, in its marching, scouting, skirmishing, or +counter-marching. It is enough to say, that in this first campaign it +assisted in clearing the whole mountainous region of Western Virginia +of a formidable enemy. + +Major Hayes was appointed by General Rosecrans, on the 19th of +September, 1861, judge advocate of the department of Ohio, the duties of +which service he discharged about two months. He received his first +promotion, to the rank of lieutenant-colonel, October 24, 1861. Passing +over less important events, we come to the first serious battle in which +he was engaged. + + +THE BATTLE OF SOUTH MOUNTAIN + +Was fought on Sunday, September 14, 1862, a beautiful, bright September +day. The enemy were in possession of the crest of the mountain, where +the old National road crossed it. The army of McClellan, with Burnside +in advance, were pressing up that mountain by the National road as its +center. General Cox's division of Burnside's corps was in advance. The +brigade to which Lieutenant-colonel Hayes was attached was in advance of +the division. His regiment was in advance of the brigade. He was ordered +to pass up a mountain path on the left of the National road and feel for +the enemy, advancing until he struck him; to push him up the mountain if +he could; in short, to open the engagement. Lieutenant-colonel Hayes +pushed into the woods, came upon the enemy's pickets, received their +fire, and drove them in. He soon saw a strong force of the enemy coming +toward the line of his advance from a neighboring hill, and went to meet +them. Hayes charged into that force with a regimental yell, and, after a +fierce fight, drove them out of the woods in which he found them, into +an open field near the summit. He then drove them across the field, +losing many men and capturing and killing many of the enemy. + +Hayes, having just given the command for a third charge, felt a stunning +blow, and found that a large musket ball had struck his left arm above +the elbow, carrying away and badly fracturing the entire bone. Fearing +an artery might be severed, he asked a soldier to bandage his arm above +the elbow, and a few minutes after, through exhaustion, he fell. +Recovering from a state of unconsciousness while down, in a few moments, +and observing that his men had fallen back to the woods for shelter, he +sprang to his feet, and, with unusual vehemence, ordered them to come +forward, which they did. He continued fighting some time at the head of +his men; but falling a second time, from exhausted strength, he kept on +giving orders, while down, to fight it out. + +Major Comly, the second in command, then came to him to learn the orders +under which the regiment was fighting, and deeming it best to assume +command, owing to the critical condition of Lieutenant-colonel Hayes, +gave orders that the wounded hero should be carried from the field. In +an almost illegible narrative, written with the left hand just after the +battle, we find this modest record, by the intrepid sufferer in this +event: "While I was down I had considerable talk with a wounded +Confederate lying near me. I gave him messages for my wife and friends +in case I should not get up. We were right jolly and friendly. It was by +no means an unpleasant experience." + +The enemy in this action continued to pour a most destructive fire of +musketry, grape, and canister into the Union ranks. Lieutenant-colonel +Hayes again made his appearance on the field with his wound half +dressed, and fought until carried off. Soon after, the rest of the +brigade coming up, a brilliant bayonet charge up the hill dislodged the +enemy and drove him into the woods beyond. The Twenty-third regiment in +this engagement lost within eight men of half the entire force engaged. + +South Mountain is inscribed on all the standards of this gallant +regiment, and surrounds with a sad halo of glory the names of the living +and the graves of the dead. + +At the time this battle was fought, Lieutenant-Colonel Hayes was not +under pay, having been mustered out of the Twenty-third regiment to take +command of the Seventy-ninth. His wound preventing him from becoming +colonel of the Seventy-ninth, he was, on the 24th of October, 1862, +appointed colonel of his own regiment, _vice_ Scammon, promoted. It was +while at home recovering from his wounds that his wealthy uncle, Sardis +Birchard, urged Colonel Hayes, to whom he was devotedly attached, to +leave the army, on the ground that he had done his share, promising to +himself and family abundant support; but he would not listen to the +suggestion, and before his wounds were healed went back. + + +AFTER JOHN MORGAN. + +In July, 1863, while Colonel Hayes, under superior officers and in +connection with other forces, was engaged in skirmishing, scouting, and +harassing the enemy in Southwestern Virginia, an episode occurred which +illustrates his force and decision of character and energy in action. +Happening to ride to Fayetteville, a distance of fifteen miles from +camp, to learn the news, he was startled by the telegraph operator with +the intelligence that John Morgan was in Ohio, and was at that moment +making for Gallipolis to recross the Ohio river. Here was a cry of help +from home. His own State invaded, and his own friends and kindred in +danger! His decision was instantaneous to go to the rescue. He sent over +the wires to his adjutant, then at Charleston, the message: "Are there +any steamboats at Charleston?" And being informed there were two, he +instantly ordered them to be sent to Luke creek, the highest navigable +point on the Kanawha. Colonel Hayes then galloped back to camp, and, +after bringing all his powers of persuasion to bear, succeeded in +getting permission to take two regiments and a section of artillery, and +go in pursuit of Morgan. In thirty minutes after the orders were read to +the soldiers, the column was on its march. The road was mountainous, the +darkness dense, the route almost impassable, but the Kanawha river was +reached at the break of day. The steamers were both in sight, and on +these the eager men and the artillery were embarked. By daylight the +next morning this timely succor was at Gallipolis. That town was saved +from a rebel raid, and the hot pursuit of John Morgan commenced. Warned +by spies, he had turned his retreat in the direction of Pomeroy. Hayes +re-embarked his force, and steamed up after him. Again disembarking his +men, Hayes came in collision with the raider, who retreated after +getting a taste of the quality of his adversary. But Morgan being beset +on all sides was forced to surrender, and was made a prisoner with many +of his men. Their next raiding was done from the inside to the outside +of the walls of the Ohio penitentiary. + + +BATTLE OF CLOYD MOUNTAIN. + +In the spring of 1864, General Crook moved with an army of about six +thousand men to cut the main lines of communication between Richmond and +the great Southwest. In this expedition Colonel Hayes commanded a +brigade. General Crook, who is called "Gray Fox" by the warriors of +Sitting Bull, is one of the shrewdest generals in the world in the way +of tricking an enemy. On this expedition he marched up the Kanawha, and +sent his music and one regiment toward the White Sulphur Springs, while +his army went the other way. He charged his music to make noise enough +for an army of ten thousand. The enemy, who were fortified on the road +by which Crook's army was actually to pass, left Fort Breckenridge, and +marched off fifty or sixty miles in the direction that Crook's band of +music had gone. His army then hurried on, and marched right into the +fort without firing a shot. To have taken it without stratagem would +have cost much delay and many lives. In the meantime, the enemy hurried +back, and, collecting an army under General Jenkins, fortified a +position on the crest of Cloyd mountain. The base of the mountain was +skirted with a stream of water two or three feet deep, and the approach +to it was through a meadow five or six hundred yards wide. The enemy, +who were strongly entrenched, opened upon Crook's force so soon as it +reached the road that was within range of their artillery. It was +evident the fortifications could not be carried without very determined +fighting. A small force, after making a stout struggle, dropped back +repulsed. Crook ordered Colonel Hayes' brigade to cross Cloyd's meadow, +charge up the hill, and take the batteries. Hayes formed in the edge of +the woods, and marched out with as perfect a line as ever was formed on +parade. He moved on, and was soon under fire. The enemy opened heavily, +bringing down men along the whole line. A slow double-quick was ordered, +the alignments being kept good until the edge of the woods was reached. + +The fortifications could not be seen. There was only in sight a woody +hill, and below it a stream to cross. Hayes, the brigade following, +dashed through the creek to the foot of the last hill, which was so +steep that the cannon could not be depressed sufficiently to damage +them. After halting for a minute to take breath, the brigade charged, +with a terrific yell, up the hill. The instant they passed the curve of +the hill, as fearful a fire met them as men are ever called to face. The +whole line seemed falling, officers and men going down by scores. But +not a man stopped; all who were not hit went on. Hayes shouted to his +men to push on to the enemy's works. They were carried by assault, many +of the enemy being bayoneted beneath ingenious barricades that they +deemed impregnable. The enemy were killed or driven out, and their +cannon captured. For ten minutes it was a desperate, give-and-take, +rough-and-tumble fight. The artillerymen attempted to reload when the +assaulting party was not ten paces distant. The enemy retreated to a +second ridge of the mountain, and made a determined effort to form a +line, but the pursuit was too hot for the effort to be successful. +Reinforcements arriving, they endeavored to make a third stand, but were +easily driven off in full retreat. Thus ended the battle on the +mountain, where the enemy's fort on its summit was carried by storm. + + +BATTLE OF WINCHESTER. + +What is known as the first battle of Winchester, fought July 24, 1864, +illustrates the pluck and endurance of Hayes under disaster. Here, as in +the last battle, he commanded a brigade in a division of General Crook's +army, of West Virginia. Two brigades, under Colonel Mulligan and Colonel +Hayes, were ordered to go out and meet what was supposed to be a +reconnaissance in force of the enemy. Hayes was ordered to join his +right on Mulligan's left, and charge with him. They were to attack +whatever there was in front. They could see only two skirmish lines in +front. Hayes soon saw appearances of the enemy off on the left. Mulligan +was informed there were signs of an enemy forward on the right. +Indications were correct. The enemy were coming down upon them in +overpowering force on both flanks and in front. Mulligan said his orders +were to go forward, and he was going forward. Hayes thought it was as +well to go forward as to go any other way, as there could be but one +result. Soon after charging, the enemy opened a deadly fire with +artillery on the left flank, and infantry close in front. In five +minutes Colonel Mulligan fell, pierced with five balls. The enemy had +double the force in front, and overlapped the right flank a quarter of a +mile. This was a better place to be out of than in. The lines melted +away under the destructive fire. The deafening roar of artillery and +musketry prevented all commands from being heard. The Hayes brigade fell +slowly back to a hill inaccessible to cavalry. There it formed, and held +back the yelling pursuers. At this point Lieutenant-Colonel Comly was +wounded. The cavalry, whose failure to furnish information of the +presence of the enemy had brought on the disaster, had disappeared from +the scene. Colonel Hayes' brigade, which was exposed to the cavalry of +the enemy, marched in a half square, fighting steadily in front and on +both flanks. Once the brigade was concealed in a belt of woods until the +enemy's cavalry came within pistol-shot, when the whole line suddenly +rose and poured its fire into their ranks. After that, the pursuit +ceased. From morning until midnight, Colonel Hayes, having lost his +horse, was fighting and encouraging his men on foot, saving his command +from annihilation, and displaying personal bravery of the highest order. + + +BATTLE OF BERRYVILLE. + +This was one of the fiercest fights of the war. It was between a South +Carolina and Mississippi division, under General Kershaw, and six +regiments of the Kanawha division. + +The occasion of this battle was this: Sheridan sent a body of cavalry to +get in the rear of Early's army and cut off his supplies. To do this +there were two roads up the pike--one through Winchester and one ten +miles east of Winchester. Ten miles east of this place, through +Berryville, was the enemy's headquarters, and Sheridan's object was to +throw a force past them which would turn and strike them in the rear. In +order to protect that body so that it could get back again--not be cut +off on its line of retreat--Crook was ordered to take possession of the +pike where the road from Winchester crosses it. The enemy, understanding +the plan, moved to take possession of the same crossing. They first +attacked with a small force, and were driven back. Being reinforced, +they drove back in turn the regiments in advance of the Union force. +Colonel Hayes had a line a quarter of a mile long sheltered behind a +terrace wall, the ground in front being level with the top of the wall. +He sat on his horse watching the tumultuous advance of the enemy. The +Union advance lines, being driven back in precipitate retreat, ran right +over Hayes' brigade. The enemy followed close on their heels. Hayes let +them get within two rods, when the whole brigade rose, and with a yell +delivered a deadly volley at the enemy's legs. They then jumped upon the +terrace and charged bayonet, driving the pursuing enemy back like a +flock of sheep. He pushed them to their second or reserve lines, where +they rallied at dark, and stubbornly maintained their ground. + +Colonel Hayes' brigade went at double quick pace into action, their +leader at the head of the column. The Twenty-third and Thirty-sixth +Ohio, and the Fifth and Thirteenth Virginia, constituted at this time +his brigade. From dark until almost ten o'clock the cannonading was +continuous and the fighting terrible. Hayes, although never more exposed +to danger, enjoyed the grand illumination and the thrilling excitement. +Both divisions withdrew at the same hour, and the engagement was not the +next day renewed. In this short action Colonel Hayes, by his courage and +gallantry, added to his popularity as an officer among both officers and +men. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + +FROM MAJOR TO MAJOR-GENERAL. + + _Opequan--Morass--First Over--Intrepidity--Official + Reports--Assault on Fisher's Hill--Battle of Cedar Creek--Commands + a Division--Promoted on Field--His Wounds--A Hundred Days under + Fire._ + + +BATTLE OF OPEQUAN. + +Sheridan's battle of Winchester, or Opequan, was fought on the 19th of +September, 1864. The battle had a bad beginning, but a glorious ending. +There were five hours of staring disaster, and five of inspiring +victory. Sheridan, in assuming the offensive, in September, was +compelled to fight Early in the latter's chosen and particularly +advantageous position, at the mouth of a narrow ravine near Winchester. + +Concerning the earlier, or disastrous part of the engagement, it is +sufficient for our present purpose to say that Sheridan moved all except +one corps of his entire army down this gorge, deployed in the valley +beyond, fought a bloody fight, and was driven back in confusion along +his line of advance. At noon the enemy were rejoicing over the victory, +and their friends in Winchester were jubilant. The reserves of Sheridan +were sent for. General Crook, in person, brought the reserve corps into +action at one o'clock. He made for the enemy's left flank, and pushed +direct for a battery on their extreme left. The brigade of Colonel Hayes +was in front, supported by Colonel White's old brigade. The order was +to walk fast, keep silent until within one hundred yards of the guns, +and then with a yell charge at full speed. These brigades had passed +over a ridge and were just ready to begin the rush, when they came upon +a deep morass, forty yards wide, with high banks. The enemy's fire now +broke out with fury. Of course the line stopped. To stop was death, to +go on was probably the same; but the order was "Forward." Colonel Hayes +was the first to plunge in; but his horse, after frantic struggling, +mired down hopelessly in the middle of the boggy stream. He sprang off +and succeeded in reaching the enemy's side. The next man over was +Lieutenant Stearne, adjutant of the Thirty-sixth Ohio. + +Shot and shell were falling in the water as they crossed, and were still +falling. When Hayes regained the opposite bank he motioned rapidly, with +his cap in hand, for his men to come over. Some held back, but many +plunged into the bog, and struggled across to their leader. Some sank to +their chins while holding their arms and ammunition over their heads. +Before fifty men had gotten over, Hayes shouted: "Men, right up the +bank," and there were the rebel batteries without any support. So the +artillerymen were bayoneted in the act of loading their guns. They never +dreamed that any Union force could cross the barrier before them. The +batteries were captured, the enemy's position successfully flanked, and +his whole force driven back five hundred yards to a second line of +defense. Here, strongly posted, he delivered a fearfully destructive +fire. The advancing line was brought to a standstill by the storm of +grape and balls. Officers in advance were falling faster than others, +but all were suffering. Things began to look dark. At the most critical +moment, a large body of Sheridan's splendid cavalry, with swords drawn, +wound slowly around the right, then at a trot, and finally, with shouts, +at a gallop, charged right into the rebel lines. Hayes, now in command +of the division, his division commander having fallen, pushed on, and +the enemy in utter confusion fled. Crook's command carried the forts +which covered the heights, and Hayes led the advance of that command. +His division entered Winchester in pursuit of Early far in advance of +all other troops. The spirit of Early's brave army was broken. Its loss +in this battle was nearly seven thousand men. + +The day following the battle of Opequan, Stanton telegraphed Sheridan: +"Please accept for yourself and your gallant army the thanks of the +President and the department for your great battle and brilliant victory +of yesterday." An official report of Colonel Comly, commanding the +Twenty-third Ohio, thus refers to Colonel Hayes, division commander: "He +is everywhere exposing himself recklessly, as usual. He was the first +one over the slough; he has been in advance of the line half the time +since; his adjutant-general has been severely wounded; men are dropping +all around him; but he rides through it all as if he had a charmed +life." + + +FISHER'S HILL. + +The assault on South Mountain, or Fisher's Hill, occurred on the 22d of +September, three days after the battle of Opequan. Sheridan was in hot +pursuit of Early, and had followed him up the Shenandoah valley, +overtaking him in position at Fisher's Hill. This is a ridge stretching +across the valley where it is only about three miles wide. There is a +creek running in front of the ridge. Early had fortified the ridge, and +was in strong position. Sheridan was disposed to attack him in front, +trusting to the demoralization from the recent defeat for an easy +victory. + +Crook insisted upon trying to turn their left flank. It was finally +determined that it could be done. He was ordered to take Hayes' +division, which led the advancing column. Crook and Hayes rode side by +side at the head of the men. Pretty soon Crook and every officer, except +Hayes, dismounted. The latter had a horse that could go wherever a man +could. The command went up mountains, pushed their way through woods, +and slid down ravines and gorges. When the enemy's left was supposed to +be passed, they turned by the flank and bore down on his rear. Hayes +galloped down a ravine, flanked by mountains, until he came right upon +the enemy's guns. He rode back, ordered his division to charge with a +yell, and the enemy, seized with a panic, fled. The charge was one of +great impetuosity, each man trying to reach the entrenchments first. +Every gun was captured. The brilliancy of this victory consisted in +flanking the enemy from the side of a mountain, where Early said only a +crow could go. But Colonel Hayes climbed there on horseback, at the head +of his command. + + +CEDAR CREEK. + +On the 19th of October, 1864, was fought the battle of Cedar creek, so +memorable in the annals of war. It wiped out Early and his army. It gave +the rebel general Gordon a seat in the United States Senate. It made +Sheridan lieutenant-general. It made Colonel Hayes a brigadier-general +and Governor of Ohio. + +Sheridan, supposing Early's army too much broken by recent defeats to be +dangerous, had gone on a visit to Washington, leaving his force in +command of General Wright. It was posted near Middletown, in the rear of +Cedar creek, and on both sides of the Winchester pike. Ten miles to the +westward, beyond the creek, were the enemy's camps. Two things induced +Early to risk one more battle--the absence of Sheridan, and his own +reinforcement with twelve thousand men. Early left camp on the night of +the 18th, and, passing round with his entire army between Massanutten +mountain and the north fork of the Shenandoah, forded the Shenandoah at +midnight, and noiselessly formed in line of battle in the rear and on +the flank of the Union army. The plan of attack was a bold one, and +seemed the inspiration of genius. The ford that gave the enemy a +crossing, which should have been well guarded by cavalry, was stupidly +left exposed. At daylight, while Thoburn's division were sleeping in +their camps, Early's onslaught was made. Generals Gordon, Pegram, +Kershaw, and Wharton charged with the rebel yell upon the left rear of +Crook's entire command. The assault, under the circumstances, was +inevitably successful, and the whole Union force was hurled back on the +Nineteenth corps and the Kanawha division, commanded by Colonel Hayes. +The enemy overlapped both flanks, and pushed forward with irresistible +impetuosity. Crook's command had already lost seven pieces of artillery, +and was in rapid retreat. The men meeting the enemy's charge, knowing +that they were outflanked and the enemy had gotten in their rear, fought +desperately, but not hopefully. The whole line was pushed slowly back. +Colonel Hayes, on seeing his right breaking up, rode over and with +vehemence gave orders to stand firm. But the line melted away, leaving +him alone and exposed. A whole volley came aimed at him, filling the air +and killing his horse with twenty balls. The horse going at great speed +when it fell, threw its rider with great violence to the ground, +dislocating an ankle and badly bruising him from the head down. He rose, +and though fired at by the pursuing enemy at forty paces, escaped +further wounds or capture. Colonel Hayes procured the horse of his +orderly, and with great exertion gradually brought his men to a stand. +Here they were alternately preparing their breakfasts, and when orders +were given, instantaneously forming lines. + +At ten o'clock the Union army received a reinforcement more powerful +than was the enemy's of twelve thousand men. Sheridan had come, and with +him confidence had come. He almost instantaneously inspired a beaten +army with his own electric energy and unconquerable hope. "Boys, we must +go back to our camps," he said; and they went. The army was recreated +into a compact, advancing, aggressive organization. "The whole line will +advance," said Sheridan, and it advanced. + +The enemy was charged a first and a second time, with infantry in the +center and cavalry on the left and right. Custer's cavalry kept swooping +down on the rebel flank, gathering them in as a sickle gathers grain. +The gallant Colonel Hayes, too modest to seek promotion, though long +discharging the duties of a major-general, as commander of a veteran +division, fought in the center, forcing back the rebel line to Cedar +creek. Here it broke in confusion, abandoning seventy pieces of +artillery, arms, camps, and transportation. The pursuit ceased not until +there was no longer an enemy to pursue. Early this time "stayed +whipped." In the Shenandoah valley he ceased to take much interest in +subsequent events. + +It was on the field of this most complete victory of the war that +Sheridan clasped the hand of Hayes and said: "Colonel, from this day +forward you will be a brigadier-general." Ten days after the battle the +commission came. The gallant Crook presented him with the insignia of +his new rank, and he wore them. On March 13, 1865, he was promoted to +the rank of brevet major-general "for gallant and distinguished services +during the campaign of 1864 in West Virginia, and particularly at the +battles of Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, Virginia." + +General Hayes was wounded four times in battle. From one wound he has +never entirely recovered. He was struck by a shell, just below the knee, +while on horseback. He did not get off his horse at the time, but +remained at the front throughout the battle. The wound now troubles him +when ascending stairs. According to the excellent authority of +Adjutant-General Hastings, Hayes was under fire sixty days in 1864. He +must therefore have been exposed to death on one hundred days during the +war. + +A soldier who would thus risk life and limb to preserve the Union is +perhaps entitled to have something to say concerning the government of +it. He who is willing to die for the republic, will see that the +republic suffers no harm. + +The qualities of General Hayes as a soldier will be reviewed when we +come to speak of his characteristics as a civil magistrate and as a +man. + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + +IN CONGRESS. + + _Nomination--Refuses to Leave Army--Election + Incident--Election--Course in Congress--Services on Library + Committee--Votes on Various Questions--Submits Plan of + Constitutional Amendments--Re-nominated by Acclamation--Re-elected + by Increased Majority--Overwhelmed with Soldiers' + Letters--Character as Congressman._ + + +On the 6th of August, 1864, while General Hayes was absent from Ohio in +the field, he was nominated by the Republican Convention of the Second +Congressional District of Cincinnati for Congress. This was the result +of the spontaneous action of his friends, and was brought about through +their agency alone. The nomination was neither sought nor desired. The +following extract from a letter written in camp, and bearing date July +30, 1864, makes known the then existing state of the case: + +"As to the canvass that occurs, I care nothing at all about it; neither +for the nomination nor for the election. It was merely easier to let the +thing take its own course than to get up a letter declining to run, and +then to explain it to everybody who might choose to bore me about it." + +The first information of the nomination for Congress was conveyed to +General Hayes through the letter of a friend written the day after the +convention met, which information was received on Monday, August 22d, +while preparing for battle, and on the same day he did a "good thing" in +the way of taking prisoners while charging on the rebel lines. Two days +after, with the enemy in front, he wrote this "private" letter on the +subject of going home to canvass: + + CAMP OF SHERIDAN'S ARMY, + + NEAR CHARLESTOWN, VA., _August_ 24, 1864. + + FRIEND S.:--Your favor of the 7th came to hand on Monday. It was + the first I had heard of the doings of the Second District + Convention. My thanks for your attention and assistance in the + premises. I cared very little about being a candidate, but having + consented to the use of my name I preferred to succeed. Your + suggestion about getting a furlough to take the stump was certainly + made without reflection. An officer fit for duty who at this crisis + would abandon his post to electioneer for a seat in Congress ought + to be scalped. You may feel perfectly sure I shall do no such + thing. We are, and for two weeks past have been, in the immediate + presence of a large rebel army. We have skirmishing and small + affairs constantly. I am not posted in the policy deemed wise at + headquarters, and can't guess as to the prospects of a general + engagement. The condition and spirit of this army are good and + improving. I suspect the enemy are sliding around us toward the + Potomac. If they cross we shall pretty certainly have a meeting. + + Sincerely, + + R. B. HAYES. + +An incident of this canvass caused at the time it occurred intense +feeling and indignation. The Democrats were having a large mass meeting +in Cincinnati, with an immense procession. Among the banners or +transparencies carried in the procession was one large, +coarsely-executed affair, representing General Hayes dodging bullets +while running from the enemy. As Hayes was at that very moment at the +front fighting the enemy, this assault in the rear was not deemed by +Union-loving men to fall within the rules of legitimate political +warfare. Some soldiers of the "Old Kanawha" division happening to be at +home recovering from wounds, had their indignation aroused to such an +uncontrollable pitch that they insisted upon ignominiously trampling +down the libelous transparency and its bearer. They had seen General +Hayes bare his breast a hundred times to the bullet-storm of battle, and +thought they were better judges of what constituted courage than men who +stayed at home occupying their time in passing resolutions that the war +was a "failure." These old veteran comrades of Hayes were moving in +compact line to charge on the procession, when a number of good +citizens, in the interest of order and to prevent a riot, had the +obnoxious banner removed. It is but just to say that Democrats of the +better sort totally disapproved of this public indecency and excuseless +outrage. + +During the canvass for Congress, and while in the thickest of the bloody +fight at Opequan, the soldiers under General Hayes kept crying out: "We +will gain a victory to-day, Colonel, and elect you to Congress;" "One +more charge, and you go to Congress!" These brave defenders of the +Republic well knew the effect of a Union victory upon a pending +election. When the soldiers' vote was taken on Tuesday, the 11th of +October, not a man in the Twenty-third or Thirty-sixth Ohio regiment +voted the Democratic ticket, and but fifty-three voted the Peace ticket +in the entire division commanded by General Hayes. The result of his +first contest for Congress, or rather candidacy, for there was no +contest on his part, was his triumphant election by a majority of two +thousand four hundred and fifty-five votes. His competitor was Joseph +C. Butler, a banker, capitalist, and most respectable gentleman. Eight +days after the election, the battle of Cedar Creek was fought, so that +the news of two victories came to the faithful soldier at the same time. +Conducting a congressional campaign on the front, rear, and flanks of +the enemy, worked well. To Hayes the cause of the Union was such a +sacred cause that he could not cease fighting the enemies of that Union +so long as there remained an armed enemy to fight. + +The war being ended, he took his seat on the first day of the first +session of the Thirty-ninth Congress, which assembled December 4, 1865. +Among the able or notable men in that Congress were Shellabarger, +Bingham, Schenck, Spaulding, and Garfield, from Ohio, and Thad. Stevens, +Conkling, Kerr, E. B. Washburne, A. H. Rice, Raymond, Niblack, John A. +Griswold, Farnsworth, Orth, Cullom, Dawes, Blaine, Voorhees, and +Randall, from other States. The first session was mainly occupied with +the question of reconstruction. The central questions during the +subsequent sessions were those growing out of the impeachment of +President Johnson. General Hayes voted consistently with his party on +these two classes of questions. He was the only new member, except one, +who was given the chairmanship of a committee, being placed at the head +of the joint committee of the House on Library. The other members were +Wm. D. Kelley, of Pennsylvania, and Calvin T. Hurlburd, of New York. As +chairman of the committee on the Library of the United States, to employ +the language of its accomplished librarian, he had "a clear discernment +and quick apprehension of all things that needed to be done;" he "threw +his influence in favor of the most liberal and permanent improvement." + +During his term of service on the committee, the Library was expanded by +the addition of two wings, increasing threefold its space. The "Force +Historical Library" was added, to the acquisition of which General Hayes +devoted months of zealous labor. It is now one of the most valuable +parts of the great Library. He procured in the House the passage of the +Senate bill to transfer the Library of the Smithsonian Institution to +the Library of Congress. He introduced a joint resolution to extend the +privileges of the Library to a larger class of public officers. He +reported back and recommended the passage of a copyright bill for +securing to the Library copies of all books, pamphlets, maps, etc., +published in the United States. + +In dealing with the subject of art while on this committee, Hayes showed +artistic taste and judgment. He voted to reject works without merit, +such as busts and portraits, and favored giving government commissions +to real artists of conceded genius and established standing. + +One of the first votes of General Hayes in Congress was cast in favor of +this resolution: + +"That the public debt created during the late rebellion was contracted +upon the faith and honor of the nation; that it is sacred and inviolate, +and must and ought to be paid, principal and interest; and that any +attempt to repudiate or in any manner impair or scale the said debt +should be universally discountenanced by the people, and promptly +rejected by Congress if proposed." + +Early in the session a resolution was introduced "that the committee on +appropriations be instructed to bring in a bill increasing the +compensation of members of Congress." Mr. Hayes voted for Mr. E. B. +Washburne's motion to lay the resolution on the table. This is the whole +of his record on the back pay and front pay questions. General Hayes +during the session voted for a resolution commending President Johnson +for declining to accept presents, and condemning the practice as +demoralizing in its tendencies and destructive of public confidence. +This vote needs no explanation to enable it to be understood. + +He also submitted the following resolution, which was read, considered, +and agreed to: + +"That the committee on military affairs be instructed to inquire into +the expediency of providing by law for punishing by imprisonment or +otherwise any person who, as agent or attorney, shall collect from the +government money due to officers, soldiers, or sailors, or to their +widows or orphans, for services in the army or navy, or for pensions or +bounties, and who shall fraudulently convert the same to his own use; +and to report by bill or otherwise." + +This was timely action aimed to remedy what has since become a gross +abuse and most serious evil. Its purpose was to check robbery and secure +to soldiers and sailors their own. + +In 1865, General Hayes submitted to leading Republicans in Congress, and +subsequently to the Republican caucus, these resolutions, which became +the basis of the action of the party: + +"_Resolved_, That it is the sense of the caucus that the best if not the +only mode of obtaining from the States lately in rebellion guarantees +which will be irreversible is by amendments of the national +constitution. + +"_Resolved_, That such amendments to the national constitution as may be +deemed necessary ought to be submitted to the house for its action at as +early a day as possible, in order to propose them to the several states +during the present sessions of their legislatures. + +"_Resolved_, That an amendment, basing representation on voters instead +of population, ought to be promptly acted upon, and the judiciary +committee is requested to prepare resolutions for that purpose, and +submit them to the house as soon as practicable." + +When the ratification of the amendments taking their origin from these +resolutions became a matter of supreme concern, Mr. Orth and Mr. Cullom, +now the Republican candidates for Governor in Indiana and Illinois, in +conjunction with Mr. Hayes, drafted the following letter, which was +signed by Republican members of Congress and forwarded to Governor +Brownlow, of Tennessee: + +"The undersigned members of Congress respectfully suggest, that, as +Governor of the State of Tennessee, you call a special session of the +legislature of your state, for the purpose of ratifying the +constitutional amendment submitted by the present Congress to the +several states for ratification, believing that upon such ratification +this Congress will, during its present session, recognize the present +state government of Tennessee and admit the state to representation in +both houses of Congress." + +The session of the legislature was called, the fourteenth amendment +ratified, and the Tennessee members admitted to seats in Congress in +July, 1866. This ratification was the one required to render the +amendment valid. + +In the fall of 1865, General Hayes delivered very earnest political +speeches in about twenty counties in Ohio, in advocacy of the election +of his military comrade, General Jacob D. Cox, as governor of the state. +We find many of these speeches partially reported, and from one +delivered in the West end, in Cincinnati, September 28, we take this +extract: + +"The Democratic plan of reorganization is this: The rebels, having laid +down their arms and abandoned their attempt to break up the Union, are +now entitled, as a matter of right, to be restored to all the rights, +political and civil, which they enjoyed before the rebellion, precisely +as if they had remained loyal. They are to vote, to hold office, to bear +arms, immediately and unconditionally. There is to be no confiscation +and no punishment, either for leaders or followers--no amendment or +change of the constitution by way of guaranty against future +rebellion--no indemnity for the past, and no security for the future. +The Union party objects to this plan, because it wants, before rebels +shall again be restored to power, an amendment to the constitution which +shall remove all vestiges of slavery, and an amendment which shall +equalize representation between the States having a large negro +population and the States whose negro population is small." + +In August, 1866, General Hayes received the endorsement of a +re-nomination to Congress by acclamation. There was no opposing +candidate. He entered at once into the canvass. He delivered a speech +almost every afternoon or evening until the day of the election. He +frequently spoke outside of his own district, to aid his friends. The +questions at issue were the reconstruction measures of Congress and of +President Johnson, and the merits of the new constitutional amendments. +In a public speech delivered in the Seventeenth Ward, in Cincinnati, +September 7, 1866, he discussed at great length the questions of the +day. In conclusion he said: + + "The Union party is prepared to make great sacrifices in the + future, as in the past, for the sake of peace and for the sake of + union, but submission to what is wrong can never be the foundation + of a real peace or a lasting union. They can have no other sure + foundation but the principles of eternal justice. The Union men + therefore say to the South: 'We ask nothing but what is right; we + will submit to nothing that is wrong.' With undoubting confidence + we submit the issue to the candid judgment of the patriotic people + of the country, under the guidance of that Providence which has + hitherto blessed and preserved the Nation." + +The canvass was an active and exciting one; but General Hayes was +re-elected over a competitor of so high standing as Theodore Cook, by a +majority of two thousand five hundred and fifty-six. It is noticeable +that while there was a Republican loss of seven hundred in the first +district, compared with the vote for Congressmen in 1864, in the second +district there was a gain of one hundred over the vote of two years +before. + +General Hayes took his seat in the Fortieth Congress, which convened +March 11, 1867. He was re-appointed chairman of the library committee, +with John D. Baldwin, of Massachusetts, and J. V. L. Pruyn, of New +York, as associate members. General Hayes' three years in Congress were +almost continuously employed in exacting labors in looking after the +pensions and pay of soldiers, and in making provision for their +families. Cincinnati had sent a great many soldiers into the war, and +all who had wants sent their petitions to the only representative of +Hamilton county who had served in the army. The soldiers of his old +division, scattered over the country, sent their applications to him as +a sympathizing friend. He had as many as seven hundred cases of this +kind on hand at one time. His time was therefore necessarily consumed in +running to the departments and in answering soldiers' correspondence. +This service of love was of course gratuitously and most cheerfully +rendered; but it withdrew him more or less from his duties on the floor +of Congress. + +He was not consequently a speech-maker in Congress, but a business-doer. +His innate good sense taught him that the public business was pushed +forward, not by talking much, but by talking little. Like Schurz, who +became the intellectual leader of the Senate, like Senator Edmunds and +most strong men, he kept silent while new to the business of +legislation. He was constantly consulted by the chief men in his party +because he possessed that most essential quality in a public man--good +judgment. He did no talking for himself, but an immense deal of working +for others. Every soldier was his constituent, whether he lived in Maine +or Nebraska. He placed self not first, but last. + +He had no thought of fame or higher place, but silently served those +that loved him, and to the maimed or needy tried to make the burdens and +loads of life lighter. He doubtless thought that "he who lives a great +truth is incomparably greater than he who but speaks it." + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + +ELECTED GOVERNOR OF OHIO. + + _Party of State Rights--Their Convention--Platform--Nomination of + Thurman--Republican Convention and Platform--Nomination of + Hayes--Platform--Opening Speech at Lebanon--Thurman at + Waverly--National Interest aroused--Hayes Victorious-- + Inaugural--First Annual Message--Second Annual Message._ + + +The questions at issue in the great political canvass of 1867, in Ohio, +were closely allied to the one whether the National Government had a +constitutional right to maintain its existence. It was many years after +the war of the Rebellion before the Democratic party could be induced to +admit that the war had settled anything. The question of State or +National supremacy or sovereignty, settled a hundred times by argument +and twice by arms, was still persistently argued by them as an open +question. The State Supremacy or State Rights party fought the +constitution at the time of its adoption, on the ground that it +established a supreme central government, and were defeated. They +opposed putting down the Whisky Rebellion, in Pennsylvania, under the +leadership of Jefferson and Randolph, and were outvoted in the Cabinet +by Washington, Hamilton, and Knox. They forced their disintegration +doctrines into the Supreme Court, and were there vanquished by the +resistless logic of Chief Justice Marshall. The same old doctrine +assumed the form of nullification under the teachings of Calhoun in +South Carolina, and was stamped out by Jackson. It appeared again in the +great debate between Hayne and Webster, and was annihilated, so far as +argument can put an end to any heresy. But it reappeared in 1861, with +Davis, Stephens, Lee, and Breckenridge as its most powerful advocates +and exponents. + +The identical questions discussed in Washington's Cabinet, when there +was a Whisky Insurrection to be put down, were discussed by Lincoln and +Davis, by Meade and Lee, at Gettysburg, and by Grant and Pemberton, at +Vicksburg. Is a State or is the Republic supreme, has been the central +question dividing parties for a hundred years. The Democracy are still +talking about "sovereign and independent states," as if there were more +than one sovereign State on the continent--the Republic itself. + +The Democratic State Convention, which met at Columbus, January 8, 1867, +forgetting that "war legislates," continued harping on the old State +Rights theme. The temporary chairman of the convention, Dr. J. M. +Christian, varied the monotony a little when he elegantly said: "We have +come here not only to celebrate an honored day, but to nominate men of +noble hearts, determined to release the State from the thralldom of +niggerism, and place it under the control of the Democratic party." + +Mr. George H. Pendleton, the permanent chairman, delivered a rhetorical +State rights speech, in which he said: "The Democratic party has always +maintained the rights of the States as essential to the maintenance of +the Union." + +The platform or resolutions of the convention, reported by Mr. C. L. +Vallandigham, contained a great deal of the same sort of thing, +supplemented with this resolution: "That the Radical majority in the +so-called Congress have proved themselves to be in favor of negro +suffrage by forcing it upon the people of the District of Columbia, +against their almost unanimous wish, solemnly expressed at the polls; by +forcing it upon the people of all the territories, and by their various +devices to coerce the people of the South to adopt it; that we are +opposed to negro suffrage, believing it would be productive of evil to +both whites and blacks, and tend to produce a disastrous conflict of +races." + +The convention nominated, by acclamation, Hon. Allen G. Thurman for +Governor. Judge Thurman had served one term in Congress and five years +upon the Supreme Bench of the State, and was a gentleman of high +personal character, and a lawyer of extended reputation and commanding +abilities. + +The Republican State Convention assembled at Columbus, June 19, 1867, to +nominate candidates for governor, lieutenant-governor, and other State +officers. The three candidates most talked of for governor were Hon. +Samuel Galloway, Adjutant-General B. R. Cowen, and General Hayes, then +representing the Second District in Congress. Mr. Galloway had served in +Congress, had long been one of the most active members of the Republican +party, and was popular because of his abilities as a stump speaker. +General Cowen had devoted much time to the organization of the State in +his own interest as a candidate, and was possessed of considerable +managing ability. Public opinion, however, in Northern, Southern, and +Western Ohio had concentrated upon General R. B. Hayes before the +convention met. The times seemed to demand a military man for leader, +and, in the language of the Cincinnati _Commercial_, there were "no +better military records than his, if they are to be rated by brave, +faithful, steadfast service." General J. D. Cox was not a candidate for +re-nomination. General Hayes was the idol of the soldiers. As early as +1865, his old division, while he himself was absent on a distant field +of duty, held a meeting between skirmishes with the enemy, and passed +resolutions nominating him for Governor of Ohio for the canvass of that +year. The soldiers went so far as to send circulars to the different +counties of the State, embodying their resolutions. When General Hayes +first heard of these proceedings he gave immediate and peremptory +instructions to have them stopped. He forbade the use of his name in +such connection, on pain of his permanent displeasure. + +The Convention of June, 1867, was almost imprudently courageous in the +enunciation of sound, but then unpopular, principles. It placed the +Republican party "on the broad platform of impartial manhood suffrage as +embodied in the proposed amendment to the State Constitution," and +appealed to the "intelligence, justice, and patriotism of the people of +Ohio to approve it at the ballot-box." The platform emphasized the +point--always well taken--that the United States is a Nation. + +On this platform General Hayes was nominated for Governor on the first +ballot, receiving two hundred and eighty-six votes to two hundred and +eight cast for Mr. Galloway. The nomination was accepted for him by a +friend in his absence. The honor which came to him unsought was borne +with the modesty of a soldier. + +On the evening of the nominations, Mr. Fred. Hassaurek delivered in +Columbus a very able speech in favor of manhood equality, in the course +of which he said: "The men who now lead and officer the Democratic party +are the most dangerous enemies of the country, of its peace, prosperity, +and welfare. Let both sections of the country unite to give a final, +crushing blow to the influence of Democratic leaders. Let the serpent be +fully expelled from Paradise, and our country will soon be a Garden of +Eden again." + +General Hayes, having resigned his seat in Congress, opened the campaign +of '67 in a comprehensive speech, delivered at Lebanon, August 5, +aggressive in tone and full of bristling points. It was equivalent to a +charge along the whole of the enemies' line--a species of tactics which +he had learned the advantage of in the valley of the Shenandoah. We +refer the reader to this clear, resolute, vigorous speech, reprinted in +full in the Appendix, for the grounds upon which the Republican leader +demanded a popular verdict against his political adversaries. The speech +showed that he deserved the eulogies of the press which followed his +nomination, among which were those of Colonel Donn Piatt--a judge of +ability, to say the least--who had written: "The people will find his +utterances full of sound thought, and his deportment modest, dignified, +and unpretending.... Possessed of a high order of talent, enriched by +stores of information, General Hayes is one of the few men capable of +accomplishing much without any egotistical assertion of self." General +James M. Comly had said: "More than four years' service in the same +command gave the writer ample opportunity to know that no braver or more +dashing and enterprising commander gave his services to the Republic +than General Hayes. He was the idol of his command. No man of his +soldiery ever doubted when he led. In principle he is as radical as we +could desire. His vote has been given in Congress on every square issue +for the right. He is no wabbler or time-server. He no more dodges votes +than he did bullets." + +Judge Thurman--now Senator A. G. Thurman--opened the campaign on the +Democratic side in an elaborate speech, delivered at Waverly, August +5th, and reported in the Cincinnati _Commercial_ of August 6th. He +vigorously defended the course and action of the Peace Democracy in +Ohio, and assailed Mr. Lincoln and his administration with an +extravagance of language that weakened the force of many of his +arguments during the campaign. He intemperately asserted that there was +"scarcely a provision of the Constitution" that had not been +"shamelessly and needlessly trampled under foot" by "these enemies of +our Government," including as "enemies" the Congress and Cabinet that +supported and maintained the war for the Union. These and other +unfortunate allusions, such as that to the "poison of Abolitionism," +enabled General Hayes to effectively retort at Sidney, and at other +points. So much of the Sidney speech as refers to Judge Thurman's +Waverly speech is reproduced in our Appendix. + +The contest waxed warm between these able antagonists, and the number of +speeches that each delivered was only limited by his powers of physical +endurance. Meetings were held night and day, from the beginning until +the close of the canvass. Much more than the governorship was involved. +A United States Senator, for six years, was to be chosen by the incoming +Legislature. But, above all, the vital principle of manhood suffrage, +and the righteousness or unrighteousness of the war to preserve the +Union, were issues to be decided. + +As the contest grew in magnitude it aroused a national interest. Morton, +Julian, Orth, and Governor Baker came from Indiana to aid Hayes in the +struggle; Shelby M. Cullom, and John A. Logan from Illinois; Schurz from +Missouri; Governor Harriman from New Hampshire; Chandler from Michigan; +and Gleni W. Schofield from Pennsylvania. The home talent--and no State +ever had more--was in the field in force. There were men of conceded +abilities, such as Aaron F. Perry, Shellabarger, Hassaurek, W. H. West, +Judge Storer, and John A. Bingham, and men of reputation like Governors +Cox and Dennison, Galloway, John C. Lee, and Senators Wade and Sherman, +who manifested the most earnest interest in the canvass. + +Judge Thurman was not so ably seconded, although Vallandigham, +Pendleton, Ranney, H. J. Jewett, Durbin Ward, George W. McCook, Frank H. +Hurd, and other well-known leaders contributed aid to the extent of +their ability. + +In this canvass General Hayes gave proofs of that boldness and moral +audacity for which he is remarkable. In every community in which he went +he was besought by committee-men, soldiers, and others, to say nothing +about the suffrage amendment. Negro suffrage, at that time, was +exceedingly unpopular. He rejected, with some feeling, these timid +counsels. He maintained, everywhere, the inherent justice of equality at +the polls and before the law, and insisted that the man who was willing +to give up his life for the Union should have a voice in its government. +By this bold course he made votes for the amendment, but lost votes for +himself. The result of the campaign had this peculiar feature, that +while General Hayes and the Republican State ticket were elected, the +main issue of the contest was defeated by fifty thousand majority. The +prejudices of a hundred years could not be removed in a hundred days. +Had Judge Thurman and his aids concentrated the fire of their batteries +upon the suffrage redoubt--the weak point in their adversaries' +lines--they would probably have gained a sweeping victory. As it was, +Thurman carried the Legislature, and secured a seat in the United States +Senate. General Hayes was elected by the small majority of two thousand +nine hundred and eighty-three votes, running somewhat ahead of his +ticket. + +He was inaugurated as Governor of Ohio, in the rotunda of the Capitol, +January 13, 1868. On that occasion, in the presence of the Legislature +and judicial departments of the State Government, and a large concourse +of citizens, he delivered the following inaugural address: + + _Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives, and + Fellow-Citizens:_ + + The duty devolved on the governor by the constitution of + communicating by message to the General Assembly the condition of + the State, and of recommending such measures as he deems + expedient, has been performed at the present session by my + predecessor, Governor Cox, in a manner so thorough and + comprehensive that I do not feel called upon to enter upon a + discussion of questions touching the administration of the State + government. + + I can think of no better reward for the faithful performance of the + duties of the office which I am about to assume than that which, I + believe, my immediate predecessor is entitled to enjoy,--the + knowledge that in the opinion of his fellow-citizens of all parties + he has, by his culture, his ability, and his integrity, honored the + office of Governor of Ohio, and that he now leaves it with a + conscience satisfied with the discharge of duty. + + I congratulate the members of the General Assembly that many of the + questions which have hitherto largely engaged the attention of the + law-making power, and divided the people of the State, have, in the + progress of events, either been settled, or, in the general + judgment of the people, been transferred for investigation and + decision to the National government. The State debt, taxation, the + currency, and internal improvements, for many years furnished the + prominent topics of discussion and controversy in Ohio. In the year + 1845 the State debt reached its highest point. It amounted to + $20,018,515.67, and in the same year the total taxable property of + the State was $136,142,666. With a disordered currency, with + business prostrated, with labor often insufficiently rewarded, the + burden of this debt was severely felt, and questions in regard to + it naturally entered into the partisan struggles of the time. Now + the State debt is $11,031,941.56; the taxable property of the State + amounts to $1,138,754,779; and there is no substantial difference + of opinion among the people as to the proper mode of dealing with + this subject. + + State taxation was formerly the occasion of violent party contests. + Now men of all parties concur in the opinion that, as a general + rule, every citizen ought to be taxed in proportion to the actual + value of his property, without regard to the form in which he + prefers to invest it; and differences as to the measures by which + the principle is practically applied rarely enter into political + struggles in Ohio. + + Party conflicts and debates as to State laws in relation to banking + and the currency constitute a large part of the political history + of the State. But the events of the last few years have convinced + those who are in favor of a paper currency that in the present + condition of the country it can best be furnished by the National + Government, either by means of National banks or in the form of + legal tender treasury notes. State legislatures are therefore + relieved from the consideration of this difficult and perplexing + subject. + + Internal improvements made by State authority, so essential to + growth and prosperity in the early history of the State, no longer + require much consideration by the General Assembly. Works of a + magnitude too great to be undertaken by individual enterprise will + hereafter be, for the most part, accomplished by the government of + the Nation. + + The part which patriotism required Ohio to take in the war to + suppress rebellion demanded important and frequent acts of + legislation. Fortunately the transactions of the State growing out + of the war have been, or probably can be, closed under existing + laws, with very little, if any, additional legislation. + + If not mistaken as to the result of this brief reference to a few + of the principal subjects of the legislation of the past, the + present General Assembly has probably a better opportunity than any + of its predecessors to avoid the evil of too much legislation. + Excessive legislation has become a great evil, and I submit to the + judgment of the General Assembly the wisdom of avoiding it. + + One important question of principle as old as our State government + still remains unsettled. All are familiar with the conflicts to + which the policy of making distinctions between citizens in civil + and political rights has given rise in Ohio. The first effort of + those who opposed this policy was to secure to all citizens + equality of civil rights. The result of the struggle that ensued is + thus given by an eminent and honored citizen of our State: "The + laws which created disabilities on the part of negroes in respect + of civil rights were repealed in the year 1849, after an obstinate + contest, quite memorable in the history of the State. Their repeal + was looked upon with great disfavor by a large portion of the + people as a dangerous innovation upon a just and well-settled + policy, and a vote in that direction consigned many members of the + legislature to the repose of private life. But I am not aware that + any evil results justified these apprehensions, or that any effort + was ever made to impose the disabilities. On the contrary, the new + policy, if I may call it so, has been found so consistent with + justice to the negroes and the interests of the whites that no + one--certainly no party--in Ohio, would be willing to abandon it." + + An effort to secure to all citizens equal political rights was made + in the State constitutional convention of 1851. Only thirteen out + of one hundred and eight members in that body voted in its favor; + and it is probable that less than one-tenth of the voters of the + State would then have voted to strike the word "white" out of the + constitution. + + The last General Assembly submitted to the people a proposition to + amend the State constitution so as to abolish distinctions in + political rights based upon color. The proposition contained + several clauses not pertinent to its main purpose, under which, if + adopted, it was believed by many that the number of white citizens + who would be disfranchised would be much greater than the number of + colored citizens who would be allowed the right of suffrage. + Notwithstanding the proposition was thus hampered, it received + 216,987 votes, or nearly forty-five per cent of all the votes cast + in the State. This result shows great progress in public sentiment + since the adoption of the constitution of 1851, and inspires the + friends of equal political rights with a confident hope that in + 1871, when the opportunity is given to the people, by the + provisions of the constitution, to call a constitutional + convention, the organic law of the State will be so amended as to + secure in Ohio to all the governed an equal voice in the + government. + + But whatever reasonable doubts may be entertained as to the + probable action of the people of Ohio on the question of an + extension of the right of suffrage when a new State constitution + shall be formed, I submit with confidence that nothing has occurred + which warrants the opinion that the ratification by the last + General Assembly of the fourteenth amendment to the constitution of + the United States was not in accordance with the deliberate and + settled convictions of the people. That amendment was, after the + amplest discussion upon an issue distinctly presented, sanctioned + by a large majority of the people. If any fact exists which + justifies the belief that they now wish that the resolution should + be repealed, by which the assent of Ohio was given to that + important amendment, it has not been brought to the attention of + the public. Omitting all reference to other valuable provisions, it + may be safely said that the section which secures among all the + States of the Union equal representation in the House of + Representatives and in the electoral colleges in proportion to the + voting population, is deemed of vital importance by the people of + Ohio. Without now raising the grave question as to the right of a + State to withdraw its assent, which has been constitutionally given + to a proposed amendment of the Federal constitution, I respectfully + suggest that the attempt which is now making to withdraw the assent + of Ohio to the fourteenth amendment to the Federal constitution be + postponed until the people shall again have an opportunity to give + expression to their will. In my judgment, Ohio will never consent + that the whites of the South, a large majority of whom were lately + in rebellion, shall exercise in the government of the Nation as + much political power, man for man, as the same number of white + citizens of Ohio, and be allowed in addition thereto thirty members + of Congress and of the electoral colleges, for colored people + deprived of every political privilege. + + In conclusion, I am happy to be able to adopt as my own the + sentiments so fitly expressed by the speaker of the House of + Representatives of the present General Assembly. I sincerely hope + that the legislation of the General Assembly and the administration + of the State government in all its branches may be characterized by + economy, wisdom, and prudence; that statesmanship, patriotism, and + philanthropy may be manifest in every act, and that all may be done + under the guidance of that Providence which has hitherto so + signally preserved and blessed our State and Nation. + +Certain principles are laid down in this address. One is that every +citizen ought to be taxed in proportion to the actual value of his +property. Another is that too much legislation is an evil to be avoided. +A third is that equality of civil rights justly belongs to all citizens, +notwithstanding the vote at the recent election to the contrary; and a +fourth, that representation according to voting population is a sound +principle, and the people of Ohio must stand by the Fourteenth Amendment +to the National Constitution. The Democratic legislature were +endeavoring to withdraw Ohio's previous ratification. This admirable +address needs no further comment. + +Governor Hayes took an active part in the State canvass of 1868, being +assisted by Hon. James G. Blaine, who spoke with marked effect in +Columbus, October 9th. + +At the session of the legislature in November, 1868, the governor +delivered his first annual message. + + _Fellow-citizens of the General Assembly:_ + + Upon your assembling to enter again upon the duty of legislating + for the welfare of the people of Ohio, the Governor is required by + the constitution to communicate to you the condition of the State, + and to recommend such measures as he shall deem expedient. The + reports of the executive officers of the State, and of the heads of + the State institutions, are required by law to be made to the + Governor on or before the 20th day of November of each year. Since + that date, sufficient time has not elapsed for the publication of + the reports, and I shall therefore not be able, at the opening of + your present session, to lay before you a detailed exposition of + the affairs of the various departments of the State government. It + will be my purpose in this communication to invite your attention + to a few brief suggestions in relation to some measures which are + deemed important, and which may be considered and acted upon, if + you think it advisable, in advance of the publication of the + official reports. + + The financial affairs of the State government are in a satisfactory + condition. The balance in the treasury on the 15th of November, + 1867, was $677,990.79; the receipts during the last fiscal year + were $4,347,484.82; making the total amount of funds in the + treasury, during the year, $5,025,475.61. + + The disbursements during the year have been $4,455,354.86; which + sum has been paid out of the treasury from the several funds, as + follows, viz: + + General revenue fund $1,518,210.35 + Canal fund 14,939.39 + National road fund 18,829.36 + Sinking fund 1,472,226.33 + Common school fund 1,426,868.80 + Bank redemption fund 16.95 + Soldiers' claims fund 3,781.68 + Soldiers' allotment fund 482.00 + Balance in treasury, November 15, 1868 570,120.75 + ------------ + Total 5,025,475.61 + + + The amount of the public funded debt, November + 15, 1867, was $11,031,941.56 + + During the year, the redemptions were-- + On the loan of 1860 $14,650.67 + Of foreign union loan of 1868 191,166.00 + Of domestic loan of 1868 136,088.13 + Of loan of 1870 157,361.33 + ---------- 499,266.13 + ---------- + Debt outstanding, November 15, 1868 $10,532,675.43 + + Small temporary appropriations are required as promptly as + practicable for each of the following objects, the existing + appropriations having been exhausted, viz: Expenses of the + Presidential election; expenses of the General Assembly, trustees + of benevolent institutions, care of state-house, gas for + state-house, expenses of legislative committees, binding for the + State, and the new idiotic asylum. + + In pursuance of an act passed March 18, 1867, a board of + commissioners, consisting of Aaron F. Perry, of Hamilton county, + Charles E. Glidden, of Mahoning county, and James H. Godman, + auditor of State, was appointed by my predecessor, Governor Cox, + whose duty it was "to revise all the laws of this State relating to + the assessment and taxation of property, the collection, + safe-keeping, and disbursement of the revenues, and all the laws + constituting the financial system of the State," and to report + their proceedings to the next session of the General Assembly. The + report of the commission was laid before you at your last session. + It disclosed many imperfections and inconsistencies in the existing + legislation touching the finances and the urgent necessity for an + elaborate revision of that legislation. Their report was + accompanied by eight separate bills, consolidating the present + laws, removing contradictions, and supplying defects, but + introducing no radical change in the general principles of our + financial system. These bills have already been somewhat considered + by both branches of the General Assembly, but no definite action + upon them has yet been had. I respectfully recommend an early + consideration of the bills, and their adoption, with such + amendments as, in your judgment, the public interests may require. + + The destruction of the central lunatic asylum by fire, during the + night of the 18th inst., causing the death, by suffocation, of six + of the patients, and incalculable distress and suffering to the + remainder, will require investigation and prompt action on your + part. In rebuilding the asylum, the erection of a fire-proof + building will occur to you as alike the suggestion of prudence and + humanity. + + This calamity also suggests the propriety of examining the + condition of the other institutions of the State, with a view to + providing them with every proper means of security against a + similar disaster. + + The interests of common school education, in my opinion, will be + promoted by the early adoption of county superintendency, as + provided in a bill on that subject now pending in one branch of the + General Assembly. I therefore earnestly recommend the consideration + and passage of the bill. + + The commissioner of common schools is required, in the discharge of + his duties, to pay out each year, for traveling expenses, about + $700. The propriety of refunding to him, out of the State treasury, + his traveling expenses, will probably not be called in question. + + During the last summer, a cattle disease, commonly known as the + Spanish or Texas cattle fever, occasioned much alarm in the grazing + counties of the State, and in a few localities caused serious loss. + On the recommendation of the State board of agriculture, in the + absence of effective legislation, it was deemed proper to appoint + commissioners to take such measures as the law authorized to + prevent the spread of the disease. A proclamation was issued to + prevent, as far as practicable, the introduction, movement, or + transportation of diseased cattle within the limits of the State. + The railroad companies and the owners of stock promptly complied + with the requirements referred to, and the injury sustained by the + cattle interest was happily not extensive. It is believed that, + upon investigation, it will be found necessary to confer, by law, + upon a board of commissioners appointed for that purpose, or upon + the executive committee of the State board of agriculture, power to + "stamp out" the disease wherever it appears, by destroying all + infected cattle, and to prohibit or regulate the transportation or + movement of stock within the State during the prevalence of the + disease. To the end that proper investigation may be had, I + respectfully recommend that authority be given to appoint five + commissioners to attend a meeting of commissioners of other States, + to be held for the consideration of this subject, at Springfield, + Illinois, on the 1st of December next--said commissioners to report + the results of their investigation in time for action by the + present General Assembly. + + I submit to your consideration the importance of providing for a + thorough and comprehensive geological survey of the State. Many + years ago a partial survey was prosecuted under many difficulties + and embarrassments, which was fruitful of valuable results. It is, + beyond doubt, that such a work as it is now practicable to carry + out will, by making known the mining, manufacturing, and + agricultural resources of the State, lead to their development to + an extent which will, within a few years, amply reimburse the State + for its cost. + + The annual report of pardons granted and the commutations of the + sentences of convicts required by law; a statement in detail of the + expenditure of the governor's contingent fund; the semi-annual + report of the commissioners of the sinking fund, for May; copies of + proclamations issued during the last year; and an acknowledgment of + the presentation to the State of several of the portraits of former + governors of Ohio, are transmitted herewith. + + The most important subject of legislation which, in my judgment, + requires the attention of the General Assembly at its present + session, relates to the prevention of frauds upon the elective + franchise. Intelligent men of all parties are persuaded that at the + recent important State and National elections great abuses of the + right of suffrage were practiced. I am not prepared to admit that + the reports commonly circulated and believed in regard to such + abuses, would, so far as the elections in Ohio are concerned, be + fully sustained by a thorough investigation of the facts. But it is + not doubted that even at the elections in our own State frauds were + perpetrated to such an extent that all good citizens earnestly + desire that effective measures may be adopted by you to prevent + their repetition. No elaborate attempt to portray the consequences + of this evil is required. If it is allowed to increase, the + confidence of the people in the purity of elections will be lost, + and the exercise of the right of suffrage will be neglected. To + corrupt the ballot box is to destroy our free institutions. Let all + good citizens, therefore, unite in enacting and enforcing laws + which will secure honest elections. + + I submit to your judgment the propriety of such amendments to the + election laws as will provide, first, for the representation of + minorities in the boards of the judges and clerks of the elections; + and second, for the registration of all the lawful voters in each + township, ward, and election precinct, prior to the election. + + That the boards of elections ought to be so constituted that + minorities as well as majorities will have a fair representation in + them, is so plainly just that in some parts of the State, even in + times of the highest political excitement, such representation has + been obtained, in the absence of law, by arrangement between the + committees of the rival political parties. It is not probable that + any mode of selecting judges and clerks of elections can be adopted + which will, in every case, accomplish this object. But in all cases + where the strength of the minority is half, or nearly half as great + as that of the majority, the desired representation of the minority + may be insured with sufficient certainty by several different + plans. For example, it may be provided that at the election of the + three judges who are to decide all questions at the polls, each + elector may be allowed to vote for two candidates only, and that + the three candidates having the highest number of votes shall be + declared elected, and in like manner that, at the election of the + two clerks of elections, each elector may vote for one candidate + only, and that the two candidates receiving the highest number of + votes shall be declared elected. + + I do not lay much stress on the particular plan here suggested, but + your attention is invited to the importance of a fair + representation of the minority in all boards of elections, not + doubting that your wisdom will be able to devise a suitable measure + to accomplish it. + + All parts of the State of Ohio are now so closely connected with + each other, and with other States, by lines of railway, that great + and constantly increasing facilities are afforded for the + perpetration of the class of frauds on the elective franchise, + commonly known as "colonizing." In the cities, men called + "repeaters," it is said, are paid wages according to the number of + unlawful votes they succeed in casting at the same election. + + The increase of population adds to the difficulty of detecting and + preventing fraudulent voting, in whatever mode it may be practiced. + It is manifestly impossible, amid the hurry and excitement of an + election, that the legal right to vote, of every person who may + offer his ballot, should be fully and fairly investigated and + decided. The experience of many of the older States has proved that + this can best be done at some period prior to the election, so as + to give to every legal voter, in an election precinct, an + opportunity to challenge the claim of any person whose right is + deemed questionable. Laws to accomplish this have been in force in + several other States for many years, and have been carried out + successfully and with the general approval of the people. Believing + that an act providing for the registration of all legal voters is + the most effective remedy yet devised for the prevention of frauds + on the sacred right of suffrage, and that a registry law can be so + framed that it will deprive no citizen, either native born or + naturalized, of his just rights, I respectfully recommend to your + earnest consideration the propriety of enacting such a law. + +The comprehensive geological survey of the State recommended in this +message was promptly brought about through the able co-operation of the +Hon. Alfred E. Lee, representing Delaware county in the House of +Representatives, who drew up and reported a bill on February 9, 1869, +making provision for the important object in view. Through the +intelligent activity of Governor Hayes and Representative Lee, the bill +became a law, April 2, 1869. The thorough scientific survey of the +State, since completed under the supervision of Professors Newbury, +Andrews, and Orton, has been of immeasurable value in the way of +developing the mineral resources of Ohio. + +Governor Hayes in this message demands laws to secure honest elections, +because "to corrupt the ballot-box is to destroy our free institutions." +He recommends laws securing the representation of minorities on election +boards, and advocates stringent registry laws. + +In the second annual message, delivered at the close of his first term, +which we give below, he recommends increased powers to the State board +of charities; better provision for the chronic insane; the establishment +of a State agricultural college; the founding of a home for soldiers' +orphans, and restoring the right of suffrage to soldiers in the national +asylum, to college students, and others who had been disfranchised under +Democratic legislation. He urged also the ratification by Ohio of the +Fifteenth Amendment. We shall speak of the gratifying result of these +recommendations in our next chapter. + + _Fellow-Citizens of the General Assembly:_ + + In obedience to the constitution, I proceed to lay before you the + condition of the affairs of the State government, and to recommend + such measures as seem to me expedient. + + The balance in the State treasury on the 15th of November, 1868 was + $570,120.75; the receipts during the last fiscal year were + $4,781,614.49; making the total amount of available funds in the + treasury during the year ending November 15, 1869, $5,351,735.24. + + The disbursements during the year have been $4,913,675.10, which + sum has been paid out of the treasury from the several funds as + follows, viz: + + General revenue fund $1,577,221.18 + Canal fund 41,783.74 + National road fund 22,069.69 + Sinking fund 1,775,938.52 + Common school fund 1,496,633.80 + Bank redemption fund 28.17 + ------------ + Total $4,913,675.10 + + Leaving a balance in the treasury, November 15, 1869, of + $438,060.14. + + The estimates of the auditor of State of receipts and expenditures + for the current year are as follows: + + Estimated receipts from all sources, including balances $4,791,144.50 + Estimated disbursements for all purposes 4,477,899.60 + ------------ + Leaving an estimated balance in the treasury + November 15, 1870, of $313,244.90 + + The amount of the public funded debt of the State, November 15, + 1868, was $10,532,675.43. During the last year the fund + commissioners have redeemed of the various loans $516,093.57, and + have invested in loans not yet due $160,643.59, leaving the total + debt yet to be provided for $9,855,938.27. + + The whole amount of taxes, including delinquencies, collectible + under State laws during the year 1869 was $21,006,332.44. The + auditor of State reports the total amount of taxes, including + delinquencies, collectible during the current year at + $22,810,675.84, an increase of the taxes of 1870 over 1869 of + $1,804,353.40. + + In 1869 there was collected for the sinking fund, to be applied to + the payment of the principal and interest of the State debt, the + sum of $1,370,101.12. In the present year there will be collected + for the same purpose the sum of $808,826.61, or $561,275.51 less + than was collected last year. + + A large proportion of the taxes collected from the people are for + county, city, and other local purposes, and do not pass through the + State treasury, but are disbursed within the counties where they + are collected. During the current year the taxes, exclusive of + delinquencies, to be collected for all State purposes except for + the common school fund, amount to $2,542,025.27, while + $18,187,400.92 are to be collected for local purposes. + + The foregoing statements from the report of the auditor of State + show that the taxation of this year for State purposes other than + for payments on the principal and interest of the State debt + exceeds the taxation of last year for the same purposes by the sum + of $609,601.50, and that taxation for local purposes this year + exceeds that of last year for the same purposes by the sum of + $1,695,725.38. The local taxes this year are about 44 per cent. + greater than they were three years ago, and are 10 per cent. + greater than they were last year. + + The increase of taxation for State purposes is in part due to the + amount collected for the asylum building fund, which exceeds the + amount required last year for building purposes by almost $300,000. + Making due allowance for this, the important fact remains that both + State and local taxes have largely increased. + + A remedy for this evil can only be had through the General + Assembly. The most important measures to prevent this rapid + increase of taxation, which have heretofore been recommended, are a + revision of the financial system of the State in accordance with + bills prepared by a board of commissioners appointed for that + purpose, in pursuance of an act passed March 18, 1867; short + sessions of the General Assembly; adequate fixed salaries for all + State, county, and municipal officers, without perquisites; and + definite and effectual limitations upon the power of county + commissioners, city councils, and other local authorities to levy + taxes and contract debts. + + The constitution makes it the duty of the legislature to restrict + the powers of taxation, borrowing money, and the like, so as to + prevent their abuse. I respectfully suggest that the present laws + conferring these powers on local authorities require extensive + modification, in order to comply with this constitutional + provision. Two modes of limiting these powers have the sanction of + experience. All large expenditures should meet the approval of + those who are to bear their burden. Let all extraordinary + expenditures therefore be submitted to a vote of the people, and no + tax be levied unless approved by a majority of all the voters of + the locality to be affected by the tax, at a special election, the + number of voters to be ascertained by reference to the votes cast + at the State election next preceding such special election. Another + mode is to limit the rate of taxation which may be levied and the + amount of debt which may be incurred. It has been said that with + such restrictions upon the powers of local authorities the + legislature will be importuned and its time wasted in hearing + applications for special legislation. The ready answer to all such + applications by local authorities will be to refer them to their + own citizens for a decision of the question. The facility with + which affirmative votes can be obtained under the pressure of + temporary excitement upon propositions authorizing indebtedness may + require further restrictions upon the power to borrow money. It is + therefore suggested, for your consideration, to limit the amount of + debt for a single purpose, and the total amount for all purposes + which any local authority may contract to a certain percentage of + the taxable property of such locality. + + The evils here considered are not new. Fourteen years ago Governor + Medill, in his annual message, used the following language, which + is as applicable to county and municipal affairs now as it was when + it was written: "The irresponsible and extravagant system of + administration which prevails in some of our counties and cities + furnishes the principal cause for the exactions which are so + generally complained of. There public contracts are given to + favorites, which occasion the most lavish expenditures. There also + we find officers with incomes which shock all correct ideas of + public compensation. These things have their effect upon the + general tone of public morals. County reform is a duty enjoined by + every consideration of public virtue." + + The whole of this important subject is commended to your candid + consideration. + + The management of the affairs of the penitentiary, during the past + year, has been good; discipline has been maintained; under kind and + judicious treatment the prisoners have been industrious and + orderly, and the pecuniary results are satisfactory. The number of + prisoners, on the 31st of October, 1869, was 974, and the number of + convicts admitted during the year ending on that day was 347. This + is a decrease compared with the preceding year, of 27 in the + number of convicts admitted, and of 67 in the number confined in + the penitentiary. + + The earnings during the year ending October 31, + were $175,663.06 + The expenses were 143,635.83 + ---------- + Excess of earnings over expenditures $32,027.23 + + Last year the earnings were $171,037.45 + The expenses were 141,794.95 + ---------- + And the excess of earnings over expenses + were $29,242.50 + + A large proportion of the convicts, when admitted, are quite young. + The age of about one-third does not exceed twenty-one years. More + than two-thirds of the inmates of the prison are now under thirty + years of age. It will occur to any one who considers these facts + that, under our system of prison discipline, too little effort has + heretofore been made to reform these young men. A high authority + has said, "No human being is so debased and wicked that he can not + be reclaimed." It is believed that, under a wise system, the young, + at least, can be reformed and prepared for useful and worthy + citizenship. The present system has two capital defects--the + mingling in intimate association of the young with the hardened + criminals, and the failure to educate the convicts in habits of + thrift and self-control. The defects are in the system. The + convict, when he leaves the penitentiary, is exposed to greater + temptations than ever before, and the result of his prison life is + that he has less power to resist evil influences, and, too often, + less disposition to resist them. I do not enlarge upon the + objections to the present system; it is not claimed to be + reformatory. In a recent report, the directors said: "The great + mass of convicts still leave the penitentiary apparently as + hardened and as dangerous to the State as they were when they were + sentenced." The vital question is, how to remove this reproach on + our penal legislation. In considering it, I commend to you the + remarks of the board of State charities on the Irish convict + system. The distinguishing merit of that system is, that "it + enlists the co-operation of the prisoner in his own amendment, + without withholding from him the punishment due to his crime." If + the adoption of that system, with such modifications as our + condition requires, is deemed an experiment which it is inexpedient + for the State to try until its advantages are better understood, I + submit that the least that ought now to be attempted is to provide + for a classification of convicts, so as to separate beginners in + crime from hardened offenders. Whether this can best be done by + alterations and an extension of the present penitentiary or by the + erection of a new one, is for your wisdom to determine. + + In several other States voluntary associations have been formed to + provide for, encourage, and furnish employment to discharged + convicts, and their efforts have been of incalculable benefit to + this unfortunate class. If a similar association should be formed + by the benevolent citizens of Ohio, they will reasonably expect to + receive proper assistance from the General Assembly, and in that + expectation I trust they will not be disappointed. + + The total number of persons of school age in the State, in 1869, + was officially reported at 1,028,675--an increase of 11,108 over + the previous year. The total number enrolled in the public schools + in 1869 was 740,382--an increase of 8,610 over the year 1868. The + average daily attendance in the public schools in 1869 was + 434,865--an increase over 1868 of 24,144. + + The total taxes for schools, school buildings, and all other + purposes, the present fiscal year, is $6,578,196.83--an increase + over the taxation of the previous fiscal year of $616,795.68. Of + this increase of taxation, the sum of $17,833.86 is in the State + taxation for school purposes, and the sum of $598,991.82 is the + increase of local school taxation. + + The State commissioner of common schools, in his report, will + recommend the adoption of county superintendency, the substitution + of township boards of education to provide for the present system + of township and sub-district boards, a codification of school laws + and other important measures, to which your attention is + respectfully called. + + Prior to the organization of the board of state charities in 1867, + there was no provision for a systematic examination of the + benevolent and correctional institutions under the control of the + State and local authorities. The members of the board serve without + pecuniary compensation. It is simple justice to them to say that + they have faithfully performed the thankless task of investigating + and reporting the defects in the system and in the administration + of our charitable and penal laws, and have furnished in their + reports information and suggestions of great value. If it is true + that an abuse exposed is half corrected, it would be difficult to + overestimate their work. They have, their reports show, discovered + abuses and cruelties practiced, under color of law, in the midst of + communities noted for intelligence and virtue, which would disgrace + any age. Let the board be granted increased powers and facilities + for the discharge of their duties, and it will afford + security--perhaps the best attainable--to the people of the State, + that the munificent provision which the laws make for the poor and + unfortunate, will not be wasted or misapplied by the officials who + are charged with its distribution. + + During the last year more than nine hundred persons, classed as + incurably insane, have been lodged in the county infirmaries, and + almost one hundred have been confined in the county jails. Besides + these a large number of the same class of unfortunates have been + taken care of by relatives or friends. The State should no longer + postpone making suitable provision for these unfortunate people. + The treatment they receive in the infirmaries and jails is always + of necessity unsuited to their condition, and is often atrocious. + To provide for them, I would not recommend an increase of the + number of asylums for the insane. It is believed by those best + acquainted with the subject, that both economy and the welfare of + the patients require that the chronic insane should be provided for + by additions to the asylums already built, or to those which are + now building. It is probable that in this way such patients can be + supported at less expense to the people of the State than in + infirmaries and jails. However this may be, their present condition + imperatively demands, and, I trust, will receive, the serious + consideration of the General Assembly. Although commonly classed as + incurable, it is quite certain that, by proper treatment, in + suitable institutions, the condition of all of them will be vastly + improved, and, it may well be hoped, that many of them can be + entirely cured. + + The expediency of establishing an asylum for the cure of inebriates + has not been much considered in Ohio. The encouraging results + which are reported by the officers in charge of the State inebriate + asylum of New York, induce me to recommend that the General + Assembly provide for a full investigation of the subject. + + The agricultural and mechanical college fund, created by the sale + of land-script issued to Ohio by the National government, amounted, + on the first instant, to $404,911.37-1/2. The State accepted the + grant out of which this fund has been created, February 10, 1864, + and is bound by the terms of acceptance, as modified by Congress, + to provide "not less than one college on or before July 2, 1872, + where the leading object shall be, without excluding other + scientific and classical studies, and including military tactics, + to teach such branches of learning as are related to agriculture + and the mechanic arts." The manner in which this fund shall be + disposed of has been amply considered by preceding General + Assemblies, and in the messages of my predecessors in the executive + office. I respectfully urge that such action be had as will render + this fund available for the important purposes for which it was + granted. It is not probable that further delay will furnish + additional information on any of the important questions involved + in its disposition. Much time and attention has been given to the + subject of the location of the college. No doubt it will be of + great benefit to the county in which it shall be established, but + the main object of desire with the people of the State can be + substantially accomplished at any one of the places which have been + prominently named as the site of the college. I therefore trust + that the friends of education will not allow differences upon a + question of comparatively small importance to the people at large + longer to postpone the establishment of the institution, in + compliance with the obligation of the State. + + A large part of the work required to complete the "Soldiers' + Record," in pursuance of an act passed March 17, 1864, has already + been done, at an expense of about $8,000, and the propriety of + making an appropriation sufficient to enable the adjutant-general + to complete it is respectfully suggested for your consideration. + + During the war for the Union, the people of this State acknowledged + their obligation to support the families of their absent soldiers, + and undertook to meet it, not as charity, but as a partial + compensation justly due for services rendered. The Nation is saved, + and the obligation to care for the orphans of the men who died to + save it still remains to be fulfilled. It is officially estimated + that three hundred soldiers' orphans, during the past year, have + been inmates of the county infirmaries of the State. It is the + uniform testimony of the directors of county infirmaries that those + institutions are wholly unfit for children; that in a majority of + cases they are sadly neglected; and that even in the best + infirmaries the children are subject to the worst moral influences. + Left by the death of their patriotic fathers in this deplorable + condition, it is the duty of the State to assume their + guardianship, and to provide support, education, and homes to all + who need them. The people of Ohio regret that this duty has been so + long neglected. I do not doubt that it will afford you great + gratification to give to this subject early and favorable + attention. + + All agree that a republican government will fail, unless the purity + of elections is preserved. Convinced that great abuses of the + elective franchise can not be prevented under existing legislation, + I have heretofore recommended the enactment of a registry law, and + also of some appropriate measure to secure to the minority, as far + as practicable, a representation upon all boards of elections. + There is much opposition to the enactment of a registry law. + Without yielding my own settled convictions in favor of such a law, + I content myself, in this communication, with urging upon your + attention a measure of reform in the manner of conducting + elections, the importance and justice of which no one ventures to + deny. The conduct of the officers whose duty at elections it is to + receive and count the ballots, and to make returns of the result, + ought to be above suspicion. This can rarely be the case where they + all belong to the same political party. A fair representation of + the minority will go far, not only to prevent fraud, but, what is + almost of equal importance, remove the suspicion of fraud. I do not + express any preference for any particular plan of securing minority + representation in the boards of judges and clerks of elections. + Various modes have been suggested, and it will not be difficult to + adopt a means of attaining the desired result which will harmonize + with our system of election law. + + The re-enactment of the law securing to the disabled volunteer + soldiers who are inmates of the National asylum, near Dayton, the + right of suffrage in the county and township in which said asylum + is located, which was repealed April 17, 1868, and the repeal of + the legislation of the last General Assembly, imposing special + restrictions upon the exercise of the right of suffrage by students + and by citizens having a visible admixture of African blood, are + measures so clearly demanded by impartial justice and public + sentiment that no argument in their support is deemed necessary. + + I transmit herewith the report required by law of the pardons + granted during the year ending November 15, 1869, a report of the + expenditures of the Governor's contingent fund, copies of + proclamations issued during the year, and several communications + accompanying gifts to the State of portraits of former Governors. + + The most important measure which it will be your duty to consider + at your present session is the proposed amendment to the + constitution of the United States. I do not feel called upon to + discuss its merits. The great body of that part of the people of + Ohio who sustain the laws for the reconstruction of the States + lately in rebellion believe that the fifteenth amendment is just + and wise. Many other citizens who would not support the amendment + if it was presented as the inauguration of a new policy, in view of + the fact that impartial suffrage is already established in the + States most largely interested in the question, now regard the + amendment as the best mode of getting rid of a controversy which + ought no longer to remain unsettled. Believing that the measure is + right, and that the people of Ohio approve it, I earnestly + recommend the ratification of the fifteenth amendment to the + constitution of the United States. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + +SECOND ELECTION AS GOVERNOR. + + _Re-nomination--Democratic Platform--Nomination of + Rosecrans--Declines--Pendleton Nominated--Hayes at + Wilmington--Election--Second Inaugural--Civil Service Reform--Short + Addresses--Letters--Annual Message--Democratic Estimate of + it--Davidson Fountain Address--Message of_ 1872--_Work + Accomplished._ + + +The State Convention of the Republican party of Ohio, which met at +Columbus, June 23, 1869, nominated Governor Hayes for a second term by +acclamation. + +So acceptable was his two years' administration of the chief executive +office of the State, that no competitor entered the lists against him or +contended with him for the nomination. On the question of his +re-nomination the unanimity in his party was absolute. He appeared +before the convention, in response to its invitation, and delivered the +speech printed in the Appendix to this volume, which sounded the +key-note of the campaign. We ask the reader to turn, at this point, to +this speech, as it is impossible to epitomize it without filling as much +space as is filled by the speech itself. The well-founded and +well-supported charges he made against the Democratic Legislature of the +State brought upon him the savage strictures of the Democratic partisan +press, showing that he had penetrated the weak point in his adversaries' +somewhat defenseless defenses. + +The Republican platform condemned the reckless expenditures of the +Legislature, its efforts to disfranchise soldiers, students, and all +having African blood in their veins, and squarely declared for the +ratification of the fifteenth amendment. + +The Democratic Convention, which assembled July 7, 1869, denounced the +fifteenth amendment, and had much to say about the reserved rights of +the States. The platform contained these resolutions, which sound, at +this day, like an inscription from the tombs of the Ptolemys: + + "_Resolved_, That the exemption from tax of over $2,500,000,000 in + government bonds and securities is unjust to the people and ought + not to be tolerated; and that we are opposed to any appropriation + for the payment of interest on the bonds until they are made + subject to taxation. + + "_Resolved_, That the claims of the bondholders, that the bonds + which were bought with greenbacks, and the principal of which is by + law payable in currency, should nevertheless be paid in gold, is + unjust and extortionate; and, if persisted in, will inevitably + force upon the people the question of repudiation." + +Here we have the bald proposition to repudiate the interest on the +public debt unless it is taxed contrary to law, as made known by +repeated decisions of the Supreme Court of the United States; and +secondly, the direct threat to repudiate the principal of the National +debt unless it is paid off in broken promises to pay. As the greenback +is simply a debt or a due bill, this paying debts with debts was a +patentable discovery in the science of finance. Taken in connection with +the declaration of Vallandigham in the canvass before, that the whole +bonded debt should be immediately "paid" in greenbacks, the resolution +simply meant that the war debt should not be paid at all. This robbing +the men whose money saved the Republic was not acceptable then to the +farmers and laborers of Ohio, and will probably not now be more +acceptable to the capitalists of New York. It is well, however, to +recall the antecedents of a party that first tried to get into power +through discreditable expedients, before resorting to a declaration of +honest principles in finance. + +The convention took a "new departure," and, putting aside Ranney and +Pendleton, nominated General W. S. Rosecrans for governor, who was then +absent from the country. This nomination was mainly brought about +through the zealous efforts of Messrs. Vallandigham, Callen, and Baber. + +The opinions General Rosecrans entertained of his new-found friends were +not favorable. In a letter dated February 3, 1863, from Murfreesboro, +Tennessee, General Rosecrans, in speaking of the slave-holding +insurgents, had used this language: + + "Wherever they have the power they drive before them into their + ranks the Southern people, and they would also drive us. Trust them + not. Were they able they would invade and destroy us without mercy. + Absolutely assured of these things, I am amazed that any one could + think of 'peace on any terms.' + + "He who entertains the sentiment is fit only to be a slave; he who + utters it at this time is, moreover, a traitor to his country, who + deserves the scorn and contempt of all honorable men." + +Rosecrans declined the nomination, and George H. Pendleton, after just +enough hesitation to impart a proper value to his consent, consented to +fill the vacant place at the head of the ticket. + +Governor Hayes, aided by Senator Morton, opened the active campaign in a +speech delivered at Wilmington, August 12, devoted mainly to the +discussion of National and State finances. In the course of this speech +Governor Hayes said: + + "When the rebellion broke out, what was its chance for success? It + had just one--a divided North. A divided North was its only chance. + A united North was bound to crush the rebellion within two years + after the firing on Sumter. A divided North encouraged the + aristocratic enemies of free government in every land to build + Alabamas and Shenandoahs that scourged the seas and swept away our + commerce from the ocean. A divided North encouraged the Emperor of + France to proclaim to everybody that sooner or later he proposed to + intervene. A divided North encouraged rebel leaders to believe that + sooner or later our armies must disband and come home. + + "Now, I say to you that Pendleton was the selected and chosen + leader of the Peace Party of the Northwest--the leader of the party + that _made_ a divided North. They talk of the debt and the great + burden of taxation. We talked sadly of the loss of valuable lives + that went down in the storm of battle. I say to you that the fact + of a divided North doubled the debt and doubled the loss of + valuable lives." + +The campaign was an important one to Mr. Pendleton. Had he been +successful he would undoubtedly have been the Democratic candidate for +the presidency. A leading journal of the State said: "The gubernatorial +contest is but a side-show. We are already entering upon the next +presidential canvass, and Ohio is the key to the position." +Nevertheless, Republican success was too certain to make the contest so +warm a one as that of two years before. The State had been organized by +townships and school districts and polled. So accurate was this poll +that predictions as to the result, sealed and filed a week prior to the +election by each of the members of the Republican State Executive +Committee, the writer being one, varied only from two hundred to three +thousand votes of the final result. Hayes' majority in '69 was 7,506--a +little above the average majority. The canvass was fought largely upon +the issue of the greenback payment of the debt. The Pendleton plan of +indirect repudiation failed, and the rag infant was decently interred, +to await an inglorious resurrection. + +Governor Hayes was re-inaugurated January 10, 1870, on which occasion he +delivered the following address: + + _Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives:_ + + In the annual message transmitted to the General Assembly a few + days ago, a brief exposition of the condition of the State + government was given, and such measures were recommended as the + public good seemed to me to require. It will therefore not be + expected that on this occasion I should again discuss subjects + pertaining to the usual routine of legislation. + + The most important questions concerning State affairs which in the + ordinary course of events will engage the attention of the people + of Ohio, during the term of office upon which I now enter, are + those which relate to the action of a Constitutional Convention + authorized to be called by a vote of the people at the October + election in 1871. The present organic law provides for submitting + to the electors of the State, once in twenty years, the question of + holding "a convention to revise, alter, or amend the constitution." + It is no disparagement of the work of the last Constitutional + Convention to say that experience has already demonstrated the + wisdom of this provision. It would be strange, indeed, if the last + eighteen years had developed no defects in the constitution of + 1851. + + It is, perhaps, not improper at this time to call attention to some + of the amendments of the existing fundamental law which the next + Constitutional Convention will probably be required to consider. + + The provision of the present constitution which prohibits the + General Assembly from authorizing "any county, city, town, or + township, by vote of its citizens or otherwise," from giving aid to + any "company, corporation, or association," was designed to remedy + an evil of the gravest magnitude. Unlimited power to authorize + counties, cities, and towns to subscribe to the stock of railroad + companies had burdened the people of the State with indebtedness + and taxation to an extent which threatened bankruptcy. Experience + has shown, however, that the clauses of the constitution on this + subject are so sweeping that they are almost equivalent to a + prohibition of the construction of railroads, except where those + who control the existing railroad lines furnish the means. In many + localities, the people are thus deprived of the only artificial + instrumentality for intercourse with other parts of the State and + country which is now regarded as valuable. By reason of it, + important sources of wealth in large sections of the State remain + undeveloped. It is believed that amendments can be framed, under + which effective local aid can be furnished for the building of + railroads, and which, at the same time, shall be so guarded and + limited as to prevent a dangerous abuse of the power. + + For many years political influence and political services have been + essential qualifications for employment in the civil service, + whether State or National. As a general rule, such employments are + regarded as terminating with the defeat of the political party + under which they began. All political parties have adopted this + rule. In many offices the highest qualifications are only obtained + by experience. Such are the positions of the warden of the + penitentiary and his subordinates, and the superintendents of + asylums and reformatories and their assistants. But the rule is + applied to these as well as to other offices and employments. A + change in the political character of the executive and legislative + branches of the government is followed by a change of the officers + and employs in all of the departments and institutions of the + State. Efficiency and fidelity to duty do not prolong the + employment; unfitness and neglect of duty do not always shorten it. + The evils of this system in State affairs are, perhaps, of small + moment compared with those which prevail under the same system in + the transaction of the business of the National government. But at + no distant day they are likely to become serious, even in the + administration of State affairs. The number of persons employed in + the various offices and institutions of the State must increase, + under the most economical management, in equal ratio with the + growth of our population and business. + + A radical reform in the civil service of the general government has + been proposed. The plan is to make qualifications, and not + political services and influence, the chief test in determining + appointments, and to give subordinates in the civil service the + same permanency of place which is enjoyed by officers of the army + and navy. The introduction of this reform will be attended with + some difficulties. But in revising our State constitution, if this + object is kept constantly in view, there is little reason to doubt + that it can be successfully accomplished. + + Our judicial system is plainly inadequate to the wants of the + people of the State. Extensive alterations of existing provisions + must be made. The suggestions I desire to present in this + connection are as to the manner of selecting judges, their terms of + office, and their salaries. It is fortunately true that the judges + of our courts have heretofore been, for the most part, lawyers of + learning, ability, and integrity. But it must be remembered that + the tremendous events and the wonderful progress of the last few + years are working great changes in the condition of our society. + Hitherto population has been sparse, property not unequally + distributed, and the bad elements which so frequently control large + cities have been almost unknown in our State. But with a dense + population crowding into towns and cities, with vast wealth + accumulating in the hands of a few persons or corporations, it is + to be apprehended that the time is coming when judges elected by + popular vote, for short official terms, and poorly paid, will not + possess the independence required to protect individual rights. + Under the National constitution, judges are nominated by the + executive and confirmed by the Senate, and hold office during good + behavior. It is worthy of consideration whether a return to the + system established by the fathers is not the dictate of the highest + prudence. I believe that a system under which judges are so + appointed, for long terms and with adequate salaries, will afford + to the citizen the amplest possible security that impartial justice + will be administered by an independent judiciary. + + I forbear to consider further at this time the interesting + questions which will arise in the revision and amendment of the + constitution. Convinced of the soundness of the maxim that "that + government is best which governs least," I would resist the + tendency common to all systems to enlarge the functions of + government. The law should touch the rights, the business, and the + feelings of the citizen at as few points as is consistent with the + preservation of order and the maintenance of justice. If every + department of government is kept within its own sphere, and every + officer performs faithfully his own duty without magnifying his + office, harmony, efficiency, and economy will prevail. + + Under the providence of God, the people of this State have greatly + prospered. But in their prosperity they can not forget "him who + hath borne the battle, nor his widow, nor his orphan," nor the + thousands of other sufferers in our midst, who are entitled to + sympathy and relief. They are to be found in our hospitals, our + infirmaries, our asylums, our prisons, and in the abodes of the + unfortunate and the erring. The Founder of our religion, whose + spirit should pervade our laws, and animate those who enact and + those who enforce them, by His teaching and His example, has + admonished us to deal with all the victims of adversity as the + children of our common Father. With this duty performed, we may + confidently hope that for long ages to come our country will + continue to be the home of freedom and the refuge of the oppressed. + + Grateful to the people of Ohio for the honors they have conferred, + I approach a second term in the executive office, deeply solicitous + to discharge, as far as in me lies, the obligations and duties + which their partial judgment has imposed. + +The most striking part of the address is that which relates to reform in +the civil service of the State and the Nation. Governor Hayes proposes +to reform the civil service of the State _by means of a constitutional +provision in a new State constitution_. This method of reformation is +radical, and, we believe, original. It suggests the pertinent query, +whether reform in the civil service of the Nation can not be best +accomplished through a new provision in the National constitution. Can +permanency and stability be secured in the civil service of the Republic +in any other certain way than by a constitutional amendment? Civil +service reformers need hardly waste their time discussing methods and +systems less radical and fundamental. It must be recorded to the honor +of Governor Hayes that he, more than six years ago, suggested the only +true solution to the civil service problem, by proposing to place that +service beyond disturbance from the fluctuating fortunes of political +parties. He has, therefore, been an advanced civil service reformer more +than the sixteenth of a century; not, like Mr. Tilden, for six months +prior to a presidential election. + +In December, 1869, he wrote to a friend in Congress: "We must have a +genuine retrenchment and economy. The monthly reduction of the debt is +of far more consequence than the reduction of taxation in any form. I +hope, too, you will abolish the franking privilege and adopt the general +principles of Trumbull's bill and Jencke's bill. It would please the +people and be right and wise." + +It is hardly needful to add that the bills referred to were the best +civil service bills then before Congress. + +In this same address, the governor boldly declares against the heresy of +an elective judiciary, and favors the system established by Madison, +Hamilton, and Washington, which has given us a Jay, a Story, and a +Marshall. + +During the occupancy of his office as executive of the State, Governor +Hayes, on a vast variety of occasions, was called upon to deliver +speeches and addresses on all classes of subjects. These efforts are +all admirable in their way, and give evidences of fine literary taste, +great good judgment, and what Dickens called "a sense of the +proprieties." + +We can find space for portions only of a few of these addresses. In an +address of welcome on the occasion of the great exposition of textile +fabrics, held in Cincinnati, in August, 1869, the governor of Ohio said: + + "We meet at a most auspicious period in our country's history. Our + greeting and welcome to citizens of other States are 'without any + mental reservation whatever.' It is plain that we are entering upon + an era of good feeling, not known before in the life-time of the + present generation. For almost half a century the great sectional + bitterness which is now so rapidly and so happily disappearing, and + which we know can never be revived, carried discord, division, and + weakness into every enterprise requiring the united efforts of + citizens of different States. Now the causes of strife have been + swept away, and their last vestiges will soon be buried out of + sight. Good men will no longer waste their strength in mutual + crimination or recrimination about the past. The people of + different sections of our country will hereafter be able to act, + not merely with intelligence and energy, but with entire harmony + and unity; in any enterprise which promises an increase of human + welfare and human happiness. + + "This association, then, is working in perfect accord with the + spirit of the times. The development of new resources, the opening + of new paths to skill and labor, the discovery of new methods, the + invention of new machinery and implements, and the employment of + capital in new and useful pursuits--these are the objects which + associations like this aim to accomplish. All who encourage these + things, and who desire to aid in such achievements, deserve a + hearty welcome wherever they may go, and will, I assure you, always + find it, as you do now, in the State of Ohio." + +Soon after the death of Secretary Stanton, and near the beginning of the +governor's second term, a meeting of members of the Ohio bar was held +in the room of the Supreme Court of Ohio, to take action with reference +to the loss of their former associate and friend. On this occasion +Governor Hayes said: + + "I shall not undertake to describe the life and character and + services of Mr. Stanton. Few men--very few men--ever possessed such + learning, such intellect, such energy, such courage, such will, + such honesty, such patriotism, in one word, such manhood, as + belonged to him. All of his great powers and qualities he gave to + the performance of duty, and with them he gave also life itself. + + "Our profession rejoices that Mr. Stanton was an eminent lawyer. + Our State rejoices that he was her great son. Our country and our + age may well rejoice that he lived in this age and in this country. + The members of our profession, the people of our State and of the + Nation, and all mankind do honor to themselves in striving to do + honor to the memory of such a man as Edwin M. Stanton." + +It can be readily understood why a robust, positive, hard-fighting +soldier like Hayes, should so ardently give his admiration to a +firm-sinewed, iron-nerved, masculine man like the great minister of war. + +On the 13th of April, 1870, the colored people of Central Ohio +celebrated the adoption of the Fifteenth Amendment at an immense meeting +held in the opera house in Columbus. Governor Hayes, as their chosen +orator, delivered the following brief address, which seems the +inspiration of one who has the logic of history in his head and humanity +in his heart: + + FELLOW-CITIZENS:--We celebrate to-night the final triumph of a + righteous cause after a long, eventful, memorable struggle. The + conflict which Mr. Seward pronounced "irrepressible" at last is + ended. The house which was divided against itself, and which, + therefore, according to Mr. Lincoln, could not stand as it was, is + divided no longer; and we may now rationally hope that under + Providence it is destined to stand--long to stand the home of + freedom, and the refuge of the oppressed of every race and of every + clime. + + The great leading facts of the contest are so familiar that I need + not attempt to recount them. They belong to the history of two + famous wars--the war of the Revolution and the war of the + Rebellion--and are part of the story of almost a hundred years of + civil strife. They began with Bunker Hill and Yorktown, with the + Declaration of Independence and the adoption of the Federal + Constitution. They end with Fort Sumter and the fall of Richmond, + with the Emancipation Proclamation and the Anti-Slavery and Equal + Rights Amendments to the Constitution of the Nation. These long and + anxious years were not years of unbroken ceaseless warfare. There + were periods of lull, of truce, of compromise. But every lull was + short-lived, every truce was hollow, and every compromise, however + pure the motives of its authors, proved deceitful and vain. There + could be no lasting peace until the great wrong was destroyed, and + impartial justice established. + + The history of this period is adorned with a long list of + illustrious names--with the names of men who were indeed "Solomons + in council and Sampsons in the field." At its beginning there were + Washington, Franklin, and Hamilton, and their compeers; and in the + last great crisis Providence was equally gracious, and gave us such + men as Lincoln, and Stanton, and George H. Thomas. + + All who faithfully bore their part in the great conflict may now + with grateful hearts rejoice that it is forever ended. + + The newly-made citizens who seem to carry off the lion's share of + the fruits of the victory--it is especially fitting and proper that + they should assemble to congratulate each other, and to be + congratulated by all of us that they now enjoy for the first time + in full measure the blessings of freedom and manhood. + + Those, also, who have opposed many of the late steps in the great + progress--it is a satisfaction to know that so large a number of + them gracefully acquiesce in the decision of the Nation. + + The war of races, which it was so confidently predicted would + follow the enfranchisement of the colored people--where was it in + the elections in Ohio last week? In a few localities the old + prejudice and fanaticism made, we hope, their last appearance. + There was barely enough angry dissent to remind us of the barbarism + of slavery which has passed away forever. Generally throughout the + State, and especially in the cities of Cincinnati, Cleveland, + Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo, where the new element is large, those + who strove to avert the result over which we rejoice, leaders as + well as followers, were conspicuous in setting an example of + obedience to the law. + + Not the least among the causes for congratulation to-night is the + confidence we have that the enfranchised people will prove worthy + of American citizenship. No true patriot wishes to see them exhibit + a blind and unthinking attachment to mere party; but all good men + wish to see them cultivate habits of industry and thrift, and to + exhibit intelligence and virtue, and at every election to be + earnestly solicitous to array themselves on the side of law and + order, liberty and progress, education and religion. + +The following letters, written during 1870, have come under our +observation. We reproduce them because they exhibit to some extent +opinions and character. + +In one dated March 1, 1870, these passages occur: + + "I also agree with you perfectly on the spoils doctrine. This you + would know if you had read my last inaugural. I am glad you do not + bore yourself with such reading generally, but you are in for it + now, as I shall send you a copy. I, too, mean to be out of + politics. The ratification of the Fifteenth Amendment gives me the + boon of equality before the law, terminates my enlistment, and + discharges me cured." + +Another letter, dated June 2d, in reply to a stranger in Baltimore, +shows his tender regard for the private soldier, whether he be living or +dead: + + "I acknowledge with great gratification the receipt of your letter + of the 30th, informing me of your patriotic attention to the grave + of an Ohio soldier in your city on Decoration Day." + + "Be pleased to accept my thanks for your generous action, and for + courtesy of your letter." + +To a friend in Congress he writes, on June 13th: + + "You will as astonished as I was by this decision as to the right + of the soldiers to vote at the Dayton National Asylum. But there it + is. How can we get rid of it? Can you pass an act of Congress that + will avoid it? I feel like saying that the soldiers must vote as + usual, and test the case again. I merely call your attention to it + with a view to Congressional action. You recollect the act ceding + jurisdiction expressly provided that residents of Ohio retained the + right to vote." + +To the president of the Commercial Union of New York he wrote, June +20th: + + "I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the + 10th instant, inviting me to attend a meeting of the Commercial + Union of the State of New York, to be held in the city of Rochester + on the 15th of July next, and to express my regret that prior + engagements will prevent me from being present on that occasion. + The subject to be considered--cheap transportation between the East + and West--is of importance to the whole country, and especially to + the State of Ohio. Earnestly hoping that the deliberations of the + meeting will greatly promote this object, I remain, etc." + +January 3, 1871, Governor Hayes delivered the following important annual +message: + + _Fellow-Citizens of the General Assembly:_ + + The official reports, which the law requires to be annually made to + the governor, show that the affairs of the various departments of + the State government and of the State institutions have been + conducted during the past year in a satisfactory manner. I shall + not attempt to give a synopsis of the facts and figures which the + reports contain. The most important parts of them have been spread + before the people of the State by the newspaper press, and the + details which may be desired with a view to legislation can be best + obtained from the reports themselves. + + I also refrain from making many recommendations. Believing that too + frequent changes of the laws and too much legislation are serious + evils, I respectfully suggest that upon many subjects it may be + well to defer legislation until the people have acted upon the + question of calling a constitutional convention. If such a + convention shall be called, it is not improbable that the General + Assembly will be clothed with powers essentially different from + those conferred by the present fundamental law in respect to the + judiciary, railroads, intemperance, and many other important + subjects, and that the legislature itself will be so constituted as + to secure to minorities a fairer representation than they now + enjoy. + + The balance in the State treasury on the 15th of November, 1869, + was $438,060.14; the receipts during the year were $4,399,932.53; + making the total amount of available funds in the treasury during + the year $4,837,992.67. + + The disbursements during the year have been $4,071,954.57; leaving + a balance in the treasury, November 15, 1870, of $766,038.10. + + The estimates of the auditor of State for the current year are as + follows: + + Estimated receipts from all sources, including balances, + $5,670,205.10; estimated disbursements for all purposes, + $5,163,976.01; leaving an estimated balance in the treasury, + November, 15, 1871, of $506,229.09. + + The public funded debt of the State on the 15th of November, 1869, + after deducting the amount invested in loans not yet due, was + $9,855,938.27. During the last year there has been redeemed of the + various loans, and invested in loans not yet due, the sum of + $123,860.36, leaving the total debt due November 15, 1870, + $9,732,077.91. + + The fund commissioners were prepared to pay off a larger amount of + the debt than has been actually discharged during the year, but + none of the bonds of the State were due, and some of the holders + demanded ten or twelve per cent premium, and others refused to + surrender their bonds at any price. + + The constant and rapid increase of taxation demands consideration. + The following table, showing the taxation for different purposes + in 1860 and in 1870, and the increase of taxation in ten years, + sufficiently exhibits the nature and extent of the evil. + + +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ + | AMOUNT OF TAXES LEVIED. | + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |For what purpose. | 1860. | 1870. | Increase. | + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |County taxes | $1,309,137.46| $1,975,088.71| $665,951.25| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Bridge taxes | 487,538.40| 1,474,148.18| 1,036,609.78| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Poor taxes | 260,607.20| 657,116.42| 396,509.22| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Building taxes | 228,444.13| 783,960.73| 505,516.60| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Road taxes | 394,424.77| 1,199,767.26| 805,342.49| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Railroad taxes | 538,869.50| 461,848.72| ..........| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Township taxes | 349,360.86| 734,585.65| 385,224.79| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |T'p and sub-district | | | | + |and district school | 1,487,247.44| 4,960,771.87| 3,473,524.43| + |taxes | | | | + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Other special taxes | 349,236.33| 1,152,335.09| 803,098.76| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |City and town taxes | 1,506,083.86| 5,447,766.96| 3,941,683.10| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Delinquent taxes | 453,013.46| 667,188.69| 214,175.23| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Other than State taxes | 7,313,963.41| 19,464,578.28| 12,227,685.65| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |State taxes | 3,503,712.93| 4,666,242.23| 1,162,529.30| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + |Totals |$10,817,676.34|$24,130,820.51|$13,390,164.95| + +-----------------------+--------------+--------------+--------------+ + + This table shows that in ten years the State taxes have increased + thirty-three per cent, and that local taxes have increased almost + one hundred and seventy per cent; in other words, that less than + one-tenth of the increase has been in State taxes, and more than + nine-tenths in local taxes. + + The increase of local taxation has been far greater than the growth + of the State in business, population or wealth. It is not to be + doubted that this burden has grown to dimensions which seriously + threaten the prosperity of the State. + + No full and exact statement can be made from the official reports + as to the amount annually collected from the property-holders of + the State in the form of special assessments for what are termed + local improvements, but it is certain that this burden is also + great and rapidly growing. + + The auditor of State reports cases in which such assessments have + been made, amounting to half of the cash value of the property on + which they were levied, and, in one case which he refers to, the + assessment was double the value of the property. + + In respect to these evils it is undoubtedly easier to find fault + than to provide a remedy. No single measure will remove them. + Probably no system of measures which the General Assembly can adopt + will of themselves accomplish what is desired. A complete reform is + impossible, unless the city, county, and other officers are + disposed and thoroughly competent to do the work of cutting off + every unnecessary expenditure. + + Much, however, can be accomplished by wise legislation. Let the + General Assembly firmly adhere to the policy of the constitution, + and refuse to enact special laws granting powers to tax or make + assessments. Let such powers be exercised only in pursuance of + general laws. Local authorities should be empowered to levy no + higher rate of taxation than is absolutely required for practical + efficiency under ordinary circumstances. In extraordinary cases + general laws should provide for the submission of the proposed tax + or assessment to the people to be affected by it, under such + regulations that it can not be levied unless at least two-thirds of + the tax-payers approve the measure. + + One of the most valuable articles of the present State constitution + is that which prohibits the State, save in a few exceptional cases, + from creating any debt, and which provides for the payment at an + early day of the debt already contracted. I am convinced that it + would be wise to extend the same policy to the creation of public + debts by county, city, and other local authorities. The rule "pay + as you go" leads to economy in public as well as in private + affairs; while the power to contract debts opens the door to + wastefulness, extravagance, and corruption. + + In the early history of the State, when capital was scarce and + expensive public works were required for transporting the products + of the State to market, public debts were probably unavoidable; but + the time, I believe, has come when not only the State, but all of + its subordinate divisions, ought to be forbidden to incur debt. The + same rule on this subject ought to be applied to local authorities + which the constitution applies to the State legislature. Experience + has proved that the power to contract debt is as liable to abuse by + local boards as it is by the General Assembly. If it is important + to the people that the State should be free from debt, it is also + important that its municipal divisions should not have power to + oppress them with the burden of local indebtedness. + + It would promote an economical administration of the laws if all + officers, State, county, and municipal, including the members of + the legislature, were paid fixed salaries. + + Under existing laws a part of the public officers are paid by fees + and a part by fixed annual salaries or by a per diem allowance. The + result is great inequality and injustice. Many of those who are + paid by fees receive a compensation out of all proportion to the + services rendered. Others are paid salaries wholly inadequate. For + example, many county officers and some city officers receive + greater compensation than the judges of the Supreme Court of the + State. The salaries paid to the judges ought to be increased; the + amount paid to many other public officers ought to be reduced. To + do justice, a system of fixed salaries, without fees or + perquisites, should be adopted. The people of Ohio will, without + question, sustain an increase of the salaries of judges and of + other officers who are now inadequately paid; but it can probably + best be done as a part of a system which would prevent the payment + to public officers of enormous sums by means of fees and + perquisites. To remove all ground of complaint, on account of + injustice to present incumbents, the new system should apply only + to those elected after its adoption. + + In addition to considerations already presented in favor of a + revision of the rates of taxation which local officers and boards + are authorized to levy, another controlling reason is not to be + omitted. By the recent revaluation of real estate the total basis + of taxation for the State at large will probably be increased + almost forty per cent, and in many of the cities the increase will + be nearly one hundred per cent This renders it imperatively + necessary to revise the present rates, so as to prevent the + collection and expenditure of sums much greater than the public + good demands. + + Under prudent and efficient management the earnings of the + penitentiary continue to exceed its expenses, and at the same time + gratifying progress has been made in improving the condition and + treatment of the prisoners. The hateful and degrading uniform of + past years is disappearing; increased means of education, secular + and religious, are afforded, and the officers of the institution + exhibit an earnest desire to employ every instrumentality + authorized by existing laws to restore its inmates to society + improved in habits, capacity, and character. + + While much has been done in our State during the last twenty-five + years for the improvement of prison discipline, it is not to be + denied that much more yet remains unaccomplished. + + Assuming that the time has not arrived to attempt a radical change + of our prison discipline, the following practical suggestions, + consistent with the present system, are offered for your + consideration: A convict is now allowed a deduction from the period + of his sentence as a reward for good behavior. The power to extend + the period of the sentence as a punishment for bad conduct would + also, under proper regulations, exercise a wholesome influence in + the discipline of the prison. + + The importance of classification among convicts is now universally + admitted. For economical or other reasons the establishment of an + intermediate prison will perhaps be deemed inexpedient at this + time. It is believed, however, that by employing convict labor the + additional buildings and improvements required for a satisfactory + classification can be erected on the ground adjoining the old + prison, recently purchased and now enclosed, at a small expense + compared with the cost of a new prison. This plan, it is hoped, + will receive your careful consideration. + + It is also recommended that the Board of State Charities be + empowered to aid discharged convicts to obtain honest employment. + An annual appropriation of a small sum for this purpose, in the + course of a few years, would probably save a large number, who, + without such help, would again return to a criminal course of life. + + The most defective part of our present prison system is probably + our county jails. It is supposed about 8,000 persons pass through + our county jails each year. They are generally persons charged with + crimes and awaiting trial. But lunatics and petty offenders in + considerable numbers are also confined in these places. The young + and the old, the innocent and the guilty, hardened offenders and + beginners in crime, are commonly mingled together in the jails, + under few restraints, without useful occupation and with abundant + leisure and temptation to learn wickedness. The jails have been + fitly termed nurseries of crime. Plans of jails, not too expensive, + have been furnished by the Board of State Charities, which provide + for the absolute separation of the prisoners. It is recommended + that the law shall require all jails to be so constructed as to + entirely prevent this promiscuous and dangerous intercourse. + + Your attention is particularly called to the recommendation of the + Board of State Charities that the proper authorities of all of the + cities of the State should be required to make full reports + annually to the legislature, through the governor, of the + statistics of vice and crime and of the work of the police + department in such cities; and also to the suggestion that + prosecuting attorneys should not be allowed to enter a _nolle + prosequi_ in any case of an indictment for a crime punishable by + imprisonment in the penitentiary or by death, without the written + approval of the attorney-general first given upon a written report + to him of the facts. + + The importance of this is sufficiently shown by the fact that in + 1869 the number of cases in which a _nolle prosequi_ was entered + exceeded fifteen hundred. + + The Girls' Reformatory at White Sulphur Springs contains forty-nine + inmates, and it is now demonstrated that the number is likely to + increase as rapidly as the welfare of the institution will allow. + Whatever doubts may have been reasonably entertained as to the + necessity for such an institution prior to its establishment, the + report of the directors and superintendent and a thorough + investigation of the facts will, it is believed, satisfy you that + the institution is a very important one, and ought to be liberally + supported. + + The report of the superintendent and trustees of the Soldiers' + Orphans' Home will engage your earnest attention. The duty of + providing for the education and support of the children of the + soldiers of Ohio who fell in the war for the Union was fully + recognized by the resolutions and acts of your last session. It is + not doubted that your action was in accordance with the will of the + people of the State, and they earnestly desire that the duty of + caring for the soldiers' orphans shall be performed in a manner + that will worthily express the affection and gratitude with which + these wards of the State must ever be regarded by a just and + patriotic community. I therefore respectfully recommend that the + legislation deemed necessary by the board and officers in charge of + the institution be enacted as promptly as practicable. + + The report of the geological survey, to be laid before you, + exhibits the encouraging progress of that work. The future growth + of Ohio in wealth and population will depend largely on the + development of the mining and manufacturing resources of the State. + Heretofore, our increase in capital and numbers has been chiefly + due to agriculture. Important as that great interest will always be + in Ohio, the recent census shows that we may not reasonably + anticipate, in future, rapid growth in population or wealth from + agriculture alone. Without calling in question the great and + immediate benefit to accrue to agriculture from the geological + survey, it is yet true that the tendency of its exhibition of our + vast mineral wealth is to encourage the employment of labor and + capital in mining and manufacturing enterprises. Let the work be + continued and sustained by ample appropriations. + + It is necessary that the General Assembly, at its present session, + should adopt the requisite legislation to carry into effect the + following requirement of the constitution: Sec. 3, article 16, of + the constitution, provides that "at the general election to be held + in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy-one, and in each + twentieth year thereafter, the question, 'Shall there be a + convention to revise, alter, or amend the constitution?' shall be + submitted to the electors of the State, and in case a majority of + all the electors voting at such election shall decide in favor of + such a convention, the General Assembly, at its next session, shall + provide by law for the election of delegates and the assembling of + such convention." + + In conclusion, I feel warranted in congratulating you on the + favorable judgment of your constituents upon your action on the + important subjects which were considered at your last session, and + in expressing a confident hope that what remains to be done will, + under Providence, be so wisely ordered that the true interests of + all the people of the State will be greatly and permanently + advanced. + +Without comments of our own, we will simply give the opinions of +Democratic journals concerning this message. + +The Cincinnati _Enquirer_, of January 4, 1871, said: + + "The message of Governor Hayes is a plain, straightforward, and + sensible document, and in every respect is creditable to him." + +The Columbus _Crisis_ said: + + "The annual message of Governor R. B. Hayes, printed in this issue, + is a very fair and plain statement of the condition of the affairs + of the State, and is especially commendable for its brevity and + practical purport." + +The Steubenville _Gazette_ characterized this message as-- + + "An excellent and appropriate document--short and + comprehensive--and, as it should be, devoted wholly to State + affairs." + +The Cincinnati _Commoner, ultra_ Democratic, declared: + + "The message is brief, but full of wisdom, and deserves the study + of every citizen." + +The correspondence of 1871 from the executive office reveals letters +like these: + + "I long since, in conversation, announced my wish and purpose to + withdraw from the race for important positions in public affairs. I + meant this announcement to apply both to the office I now hold and + the senatorship. That purpose remains unchanged." + +A letter of May 5th, to a distinguished New York journalist, says: + + "Your article on the Ohio governorship is of course satisfactory to + me, but you will not object to two corrections. I have not been and + shall not be a candidate for re-nomination. I probably could + without effort have been renominated, but usage and personal + inclination were against it. The more serious error is: You omit to + name the Republican candidate who is nearly certain of the + nomination and election. General Edward F. Noyes, of Cincinnati, a + brave and popular soldier, who lost a leg in the Atlanta campaign; + an eloquent and attractive speaker, and a gentleman of integrity + and purity of character, will, I think, without question, be + nominated. He is the sort of man you would support heartily if you + lived in Ohio." + +On the 6th of October, 1871, Governor Hayes delivered the striking +address we give below, on the occasion of the inauguration of the +celebrated Davidson fountain, in Cincinnati. This fountain, in design +and execution, is a work of art of extraordinary merit. + + _Fellow-Citizens:_ + + It is altogether fitting that the citizens of Cincinnati should + feel a deep interest in the occasion which has called together this + large assemblage. It is well to do honor to this noble gift, and to + do honor to the generous giver. This work lends a new charm to the + whole city. + + Longfellow's lines in praise of the Catawba that grows on the banks + of the Beautiful River gives to the Catawba a finer flavor, and + renders the Beautiful River still more beautiful. When art and + genius give to us in marble or on canvas the features of those we + admire or love, ever afterward we discover in their faces and in + their characters more to admire and more to love. + + This work makes Cincinnati a pleasanter city, her homes more happy, + her aims worthier, and her future brighter. + + But this fountain does not pour out its blessings for Cincinnati or + for her visitors and guests alone. Cincinnati is one of the central + cities of the Nation--of the great continent. It is becoming the + convention city. Witness the National assemblies in the interest of + commerce, of industry, of education, of benevolence, of progress, + of religion, which annually gather here from the most distant parts + of America. This monument is an instructor of all who come. Whoever + beholds it will carry away some part of the lesson it teaches. The + duty which the citizen owes to the community in which, and by + which, he has prospered, that duty this work will forever teach. No + rich man who is wise will, in the presence of this example, + willingly go to his grave with his debt to the public unpaid and + unprovided for. Many a last will and testament will have a + beneficent codicil, suggested by the work we inaugurate to-day. + Parks, fountains, schools, galleries of art, libraries, hospitals, + churches--whatever benefits and elevates mankind--will here receive + much needed encouragement and support. + + This work says to him who, with anxious toil and care, has + successfully gathered and hoarded--Do not neglect your great + opportunity. Divide wisely and equitably between the few who are + most nearly of your own blood, and the many who in kinship are only + a little farther removed. If you regard only those reared under + your own roof, your cherished estate will soon be scattered, + perhaps wasted by profligate heirs in riotous living, to their own + ruin, and you and your fortune will quickly be forgotten. Give a + share--pay a tithe to your more distant and more numerous + kindred--to the general public, and you will be gratefully + remembered, and mankind will be blessed by your having lived! + + Many, reflecting on the uncertainty of the future, will prefer to + see their benefactions distributed and applied while they are still + living. Regarding their obligations to the public as sacred debts, + they will wish to pay as they go. This is commendable; perhaps it + is safest. + + But at some time and somehow the example here presented will and + must be followed. All such deeds are the parents of other similar + good deeds. And so the circle within which the blessings flowing + from this fountain are enjoyed will forever grow wider and wider, + and the people of distant times and places will rejoice to drink, + as we now do, healthful and copious draughts in honor of its + founder. + + Here, this matchless structure will link together, in perpetual, + grateful remembrance, the names of Tyler Davidson and Henry + Probasco! Ever honored be those names in the city they have so + greatly honored! + +The message of Governor Hayes, on retiring from office at the close of +his fourth year, calls attention to the encroachments upon the rights +and interests of the people by railway corporations, and discusses at +length the important subject of securing economy, efficiency, and purity +in the administration of the local governments of cities and towns. For +its able discussion of these and other subjects, this message of 1872 +commends itself. + + _Fellow-Citizens of the General Assembly:_ + + The finances of the State government are in a satisfactory + condition. The balance in the State treasury on the 15th of + November, 1870, was $766,038.10; the receipts during the last + fiscal year were $5,241,184.91; making the total amount of + available funds in the treasury during the year ending November 15, + 1871, $6,007,223.01. + + The disbursements during the year have been $5,259,046.74, leaving + a balance in the treasury, Nov, 15, 1871, of $748,176.27. + + The estimates of the auditor of State of receipts and expenditures + for the current year, are as follows: + + Estimated receipts from all sources, including balances, + $5,206,366.27. + + Estimated disbursements for all purposes, $4,776,035.73. + + Leaving an estimated balance in the treasury, November 15, 1872, of + $430,330.54. + + The public funded debt of the State November 15, 1870, after + deducting the amount invested in Ohio stocks, was $9,730,144.36. + + During the past year the debt has been reduced $729,415. + + Leaving the total debt yet to be provided for, $9,000,729.36. Of + this amount, the sum of $44,518.31 has ceased to bear interest, the + holders thereof having been notified of the readiness of the State + to pay the same. This leaves the total interest-bearing debt of the + State, $8,956,211.05. + + The taxes levied in 1870, collectible in 1871, were as follows: + + State taxes $4,666,242.23 + County and local levies 18,797,389.59 + Delinquencies and forfeitures in former years 667,188.69 + -------------- + Total taxes, including delinquencies collectible + in 1871 $24,130,820.51 + + The taxes levied in 1871, collectible in 1872, were as follows: + + + State taxes $ 4,350,728.28 + County and local levies 18,604,660.12 + Delinquencies and forfeitures 632,275.84 + -------------- + Total taxes and delinquencies collectible + in 1872 $23,587,664 24 + + It will be noticed, with gratification, that the annual increase of + taxation, to which the people have been long accustomed, has been + checked, and that the taxes, both State and local, have been + somewhat reduced. + + The increase of local indebtedness still continues. The returns + made to the auditor of State are imperfect, but enough is shown to + warrant the opinion that during the past year the indebtedness of + the towns and cities of the State has increased not less than one + million of dollars, and that their aggregate indebtedness now + equals the indebtedness of the State. I respectfully repeat, as the + remedy for this evil, the recommendation heretofore made, that all + public debts be prohibited, except in cases of emergency, analogous + to those specified in sections 1 and 2, article 8, of the + constitution. + + The report of the adjutant-general shows that there has been + collected by him from the United States during the year, on account + of the State war claims, the sum of $145,304.60, making the total + amount of war claims collected $2,826,247.94. It is probable that + about $100,000 more can be collected on these claims without + additional legislation by Congress. This will leave about $400,000 + of claims unpaid, which, it is believed, when presented to + Congress, with proper vouchers and explanations, will be provided + for by special act. As long, however, as the board of military + claims exists, these claims will continue to increase, and it would + not be advisable to seek Congressional action until the State, by + closing its accounts with individuals, shall be able to ask for a + final settlement. + + It is therefore recommended that the statutes providing for the + allowance of claims against the State by the commissioners of + military claims be repealed; the repeal to take effect at such date + in the future as will afford opportunity for the presentation and + allowance of all just claims. + + The report of the commissioner of common schools shows that, upon + the whole, the educational interests of the State continue to be + very prosperous. He presents, however, for your consideration, a + number of changes in the school laws, which he deems essential to + further progress. The proposed reforms are treated of in his report + under the following heads: normal instruction, supervision, a + codification of the laws, and the township system. + + The commanding position which Ohio has held in the great + transactions of our recent civil and military history is largely + due to the educational advantages enjoyed by her people. Every + measure which tends to continue and increase those advantages + merits your earnest and favorable consideration. + + For many years the most eminent teachers and friends of education + have urged the necessity of establishing institutions for the + instruction of teachers in the principles and duties of their high + and honorable calling. A few thousand dollars of the school fund + applied every year to this purpose will, it is believed, make the + expenditures for school purposes vastly more beneficial to the + State. + + There are serious objections to the present mixed system of school + management by means of township boards and sub-district directors. + It is believed that this system ought to give place to the purely + township system, in which all of the schools of the township are + under the exclusive control of a board of education chosen by the + electors of the township. This plan is in conformity with that + which has been adopted with satisfactory results in most of our + towns, and is sustained by the experience of other States in which + the purely township system has been tried. + + In several counties of the State colored children are practically + deprived of the privilege of attending public schools. The denial + of education to any citizen of Ohio is so manifestly unjust that it + is confidently believed that the legislature needs only to be + informed that such a wrong exists to promptly provide a remedy. + + The official reports of the penitentiary, the Reform School for + Boys, the Reform School for Girls, and the benevolent institutions + of the State, which will be laid before you, show that the work of + these institutions has during the past year been well done. They + will, without question, receive from you all needed encouragement + and support. It seems proper, however, to direct your attention to + the urgent necessity of such legislation as will empower the boards + of trustees and directors charged with the erection of buildings + for the insane and for the orphans of deceased soldiers, to + complete them as soon as practicable. + + By the census of 1870 the number of insane persons in the State was + 3,414. The number of patients under treatment in the insane asylums + of the State was, last year, only 1,346. The trustees of the + Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphans' Home report that the number of + orphans in Ohio needing care is about eight hundred, and that the + number cared for is only about two hundred and fifty. These facts + sufficiently demonstrate the importance of the suggestion here + made. + + I renew the recommendation heretofore made that the legislature + provide for the erection of suitable monuments at the graves of + General Harrison and General Hamer. + + General Harrison has many titles to the grateful remembrance of the + people of Ohio. He was one of the pioneers of the West, a soldier + of honorable fame in two wars against the savages and in the war of + 1812, a secretary and acting governor of the Northwest Territory + before Ohio was organized, a law-maker of conspicuous usefulness at + the State capital and at Washington, and was chief magistrate of + the Nation at the time of his death. To honor him is to honor all + who were eminent and useful in the early settlement of Ohio. + + General Hamer served with distinction four times in the General + Assembly; was the speaker of the house of representatives; was six + years a member of Congress from the Brown county district, and died + in Mexico in 1846, a volunteer from Ohio, in the service of his + country, with the rank of brigadier-general. At the time of his + death the General Assembly, with entire unanimity, "resolved that + the body of the deceased be brought from Mexico and interred in the + soil of Ohio, at the expense of the State." Having undertaken, as + the duty of the State, to give the remains of General Hamer a + fitting burial, the legislature can not regard that duty as + completely performed until an appropriate monument has been built + at his grave. + + Since the adoption of the present constitution the governor's + duties have compelled him to reside at the capital. If any change + is made in respect to the powers and duties of the executive in the + revision about to be made of the constitution, the change, it is + probable, will increase rather than diminish his duties. The + evident impropriety of subjecting each new incumbent of the office + to the inconvenience and expense of procuring and furnishing a + suitable residence for the short period of a governor's term of + office has led, in many States, to the purchase of a governor's + mansion. Three of the States adjoining Ohio have adopted this + course. It can not be doubted that Ohio will, at no distant day, + follow their example. The rapid increase in the value of real + estate in Columbus in consequence of its present growth and its + promise of continued prosperity in the future gives force to the + suggestion that if the State is to purchase a governor's residence + at all it would be well to do it promptly. + + The importance of wise legislation on the subject of railroads, in + a State having the geographical position which belongs to Ohio, can + not be over-estimated. The greater part of the trade and travel + between the commercial and manufacturing States of the East and the + agricultural States of the West, and of the business of the + continental railways which connect the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, + passes over the railroads of this State. Fourteen years ago, + Governor Chase, speaking of the railroads of Ohio, said: "This vast + interest, affecting vitally so many other interests, has grown + suddenly to its present dimensions without system, without general + organization, and, in some important respects, without + responsibility." Then the railroads of the State carried annually + about a million of passengers, and their gross receipts were about + six millions of dollars a year. Last year they carried twelve + millions of passengers, and their gross receipts exceeded thirty + million of dollars. + + All of the just powers of the corporations which conduct this + immense business are derived from the laws of the State. If these + laws fail to guard adequately the rights and the interests of our + citizens, it is the duty of the General Assembly to supply their + defects. Serious and well-grounded apprehensions are felt that in + the management of these companies, which are largely controlled by + non-residents of Ohio, practices, not sanctioned by the law, nor by + sound morality, have become common, which are prejudicial to the + interests of the great body of the people, and which, if continued, + will ultimately destroy the prosperity of the State. + + Regarding railroads as the most useful instrumentality by which + intercourse is carried on between different sections of the + country, the people do not desire the adoption of a narrow or + unfriendly policy toward them. But it should be remembered that + these corporations were created, and their valuable franchises + granted by the legislature to promote the interests of the people + of the State. No railroad company can sacrifice those interests + without violating the law of its origin. It is not to be doubted + that the authority of the General Assembly is competent to correct + whatever abuses have grown up in the management of the railroads of + the State. + + The late commissioner of railroads and telegraphs, in his last able + and valuable report, directs attention to a large number of what he + terms "clear and palpable violations of law" by railroad companies, + which are of frequent occurrence. + + In relation to the rates prescribed by law for the transportation + of persons and property, he says: "There is not a railroad operated + in the State, either under special charter or the general law, upon + which the law regulating rates is not in some way violated nearly + every time a regular passenger, or freight, or mixed train passes + over it." + + As to the laws regulating the occupation of streets and alleys by + railroad tracks, the speed of locomotives in towns and cities, and + railroad crossings, he says that statutes which he regards as + wholesome are, "it is notorious, wholly ignored by some companies, + and only partially obeyed by others." + + He quotes the laws forbidding railroad officials from being + interested in fast freight, express, or transportation companies, + and from dealing in railroad securities, and adds, that "the + violation of these laws is believed to be very common among + railroad officials." + + The commissioner also gives examples of the "increase or watering + of stock" by railroad companies, and remarks, "the foregoing + statements are the more striking in view of the fact that the + stockholders in the company have been in receipt of regular + semi-annual dividends for seven years of from six to ten per cent + per annum." + + The significance of this remark of the commissioner lies in the + fact that the rates which railroad companies may charge for the + transportation of passengers and freight may be prescribed by the + General Assembly, whenever the net profits amount to ten per cent + on the capital actually invested. + + The interests involved are of such magnitude that all legislation + ought to be based on the fullest and most accurate information + which a careful investigation can furnish. I, therefore, recommend + that a commission of five citizens, of whom the railroad + commissioner shall be one, be organized, with ample powers to + investigate the management of the railroad companies of the State, + their legal rights, and the rights of the State and its citizens, + and to report the information acquired, with a recommendation of + such measures as the commission shall deem expedient. + + During the past year, the traveling public has enjoyed, in Ohio, + remarkable immunity from railroad accidents. According to the + reports of the railroad companies to the commissioner, not a single + passenger has lost his life by the fault of the railroads in the + State during the year. But the number of persons, "other than + passengers," and of "employees" who have lost their lives, is quite + large. One hundred and fifty-seven persons are reported to have + been killed, and it is without doubt that many deaths have occurred + which have not been reported. Many of these fatal accidents + happened in the streets of towns and cities, and at street and road + crossings. It is perfectly practicable to protect citizens from + these dangers, by enforcing proper regulations as to the speed of + trains, and as to the occupancy and crossing of streets and roads. + Your special attention is called to this subject. + + One of the most difficult and interesting practical problems which + now engages the thoughts of the American people is how to maintain + economy, efficiency, and purity in the administration of local + affairs, and especially in the government of towns and cities, + without a departure from principles and methods which are deemed + essential to free popular government. Many of the most important + functions of government are in the hands of the local authorities. + They are directly charged with the expenditure of large sums of + money, with the protection of life and property, and with the + administration of civil and criminal justice. These duties, in one + way or another, touch nearly and constantly the interests and + feelings of every citizen. Upon their faithful performance depends + the prosperity, happiness, and safety of the community. It is true + that as yet Ohio is happily, in a great measure, free from the + operation of causes which in the commercial metropolis of the + country recently led to such extraordinary corruption in the + government of that city. But those causes do not belong alone to + the great cities of the East. They are already at work in our + midst, and they are steadily and rapidly increasing in power. No + political party is altogether free from their influence, and no + political party is solely responsible for them. We have laws + prohibiting almost every conceivable official neglect and abuse, + and penalties are affixed to the violation of those laws which can + not be regarded as inadequate. The difficulty is to secure their + enforcement. Those whose duty it is to detect and prosecute are + often interested in maintaining good relations with the + wrong-doers. The contractors for public work and supplies not + infrequently have a community of interest with those who are the + agents of the public to let and superintend the performance of + contracts. Where these abuses exist there is apt to be a large + circle of apparently disinterested citizens, who labor to conceal + the facts and to suppress investigation. What the public welfare + demands is a practical measure which will provide for a thorough + and impartial investigation in every case of suspected neglect, + abuse, or fraud. Such an investigation, to be effective, must be + made by an authority independent, if possible, of all local + influences. When abuses are discovered, the prosecution and + punishment of offenders ought to follow. But even if prosecutions + fail in cases of full exposure, public opinion almost always + accomplishes the object desired. A thorough investigation of + official corruption and criminality leads with great certainty to + the needed reform. Publicity is a great corrector of official + abuses. Let it therefore be made the duty of the governor, on + satisfactory information that the public good requires an + investigation of the affairs of any public office or the conduct of + any public officer, whether State or local, to appoint one or more + citizens who shall have ample powers to make such investigation. + + If by the investigation violations of law are discovered, the + governor should be authorized, in his discretion, to notify the + attorney-general, whose duty it should be, on such notice, to + prosecute the offenders. The constitution makes it the duty of the + governor to "see that the laws are faithfully executed." Some such + measure as the one here recommended is necessary to give force and + effect to this constitutional provision. + + In compliance with the constitution, the last General Assembly + submitted to the people the question of holding a convention "to + revise, alter, or amend" the constitution, and at the October + election a large majority of the voters of the State decided in + favor of a convention. It is the duty of the General Assembly, at + its present session, to provide by law for the election of + delegates and the assembling of the convention. + + The vote on the question of calling the convention which formed the + present constitution was taken at the October election, 1849. At + the next session of the General Assembly an act was passed which + provided for the election of delegates to the convention the first + Monday of April, 1850, and the convention was convened on the first + Monday of May following. + + In conclusion, I wish to make my grateful acknowledgments to the + people of Ohio for the honorable trusts they have confided to me, + and to express the hope that the harmony, prosperity, and happiness + which they now enjoy in such full measure may, under Providence, be + perpetual. + +Hayes, during his two terms as Governor, proposed and carried through +the following measures of the first importance to the welfare of the +State: + +He recommended and had completed a comprehensive Geological Survey of +Ohio. + +He secured the establishment of a Soldiers' Orphans' Home. + +He had the powers of the Board of State Charities restored and enlarged. + +He had provision made for the care, by the State, of the chronic +insane. + +Under his direction the graded system was adopted in the State Prison +and prison reforms introduced. + +Minority representation on Election Boards was secured. + +The Agricultural and Mechanical College was founded, trustees appointed, +and the institution organized. + +Portraits of the Governors of Ohio were placed in the State collection. + +The suffrage amendment to the Constitution of the State was adopted. + +The fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the United States was +ratified. + +The Lincoln Memorial, an admirable work of art, was placed in the +capitol. + +The right of soldiers in the National Asylum to vote was restored. + +The students' privilege of voting while attending college was given +back. + +The odious "visible admixture" law was repealed. + +The St. Clair papers were purchased, and letters and manuscripts +relating to pioneer history collected. + +A Reform School for Girls was established and made successful. + +The State debt was reduced, and all increase of debt opposed. + +Can any Governor of any State say that he has done a better business? + + + + +CHAPTER IX. + +THIRD TIME ELECTED GOVERNOR. + + _The Senatorship declined--Army Banquet Speech--Third Time + nominated for Congress--Glendale Speech--Declines a Federal + Office--Making a Home--Nomination for Governor--Platform--Serenade + Speech--Democratic Convention and Platform--Marion Speech of + Hayes--Woodford--Grosvenor--Schurz--Inflation Drivel--Interest in + the Contest--Honest Money Triumphant--Third Inaugural._ + + +Just as Governor Hayes was vacating the office of chief executive of +Ohio, to which he had positively refused to be re-elected, he was +offered and declined the Senatorship from that State. The proofs of this +fact are before us. The circumstances were these: A Senator in Congress +was to be elected by the State Legislature, in January, 1872, to succeed +John Sherman. Mr. Sherman had secured the nomination and election of a +majority of Republicans who were favorable to his own re-election; but +the Republican majority on joint ballot was small. Before the meeting of +the Republican caucus, a sufficient number of members to control the +result, with the aid of the Democrats, proposed to Governor Hayes to +stay out of the caucus, and, uniting the entire opposition to Sherman, +secure his defeat. + +Hayes had authoritative assurances that the Democratic members would +support him, with a view of defeating Sherman; while the Independent or +anti-Sherman Republicans, who held the balance of power, were +importunate that he should allow himself to be their compromise +candidate. But he firmly rejected all these overtures, and forbid the +use of his name in connection with the matter in any manner whatever. A +leading State Senator declared it "was most extraordinary to see the +Senatorship refused, with the Presidency in prospect." + +On the 7th of April, General Hayes delivered a speech in Cincinnati in +response to the toast "Our Country," which contains thoughts worthy of +reproduction. It was upon the occasion of the fifth annual banquet of +the Army of the Tennessee. After some general introductory remarks, the +orator said: + + "Consider the history of our country. It is the youngest of the + nations. We are just beginning to look forward to the celebrations, + five years hence, of the completion of the first century of its + existence. This brief period, so crowded with interesting events, + with great achievements in peace and war, and adorned with + illustrious names in every honorable walk of life, has witnessed a + progress in our country without a parallel in the annals of the + race. + + "Add to these considerations the visions of greatness and + prosperity which the future opens to America, and we shall begin to + see by what titles our country claims from all of her children + admiration, gratitude, and loyal love. + + "Those who are accustomed to take gloomy views of every event and + every prospect, will perhaps remind us that all the parts of this + picture have their dark side; that this extended and magnificent + territory of ours must needs have rival interests hostile and + dangerous to unity; that people differing in race, nationality, + religion, language, and traditions will, with difficulty, be fused + into one harmonious Nation; that written constitutions do not make + a government unless their provisions are obeyed or enforced. As to + our boasted history, they will point to pages darkened with grave + crimes against the weaker races; and as to our future, they will + tell us of the colossal fortunes which, under the sanction of law, + are already consolidating in the hands of a few men--not always the + best men--powers which threaten alike good government and our + liberties. + + "In reply to these views, it can not be denied that in a wide + domain like ours, inhabited by people not always harmonious, + something more than written constitutions are required. A mere + paper government is not enough. The law, if not voluntarily obeyed, + must be firmly enforced. To accomplish this there must be wisdom, + moderation, firmness, not only in those who administer the + government, but in the people, who, at last, are the government. + + "The great task is to educate a whole people in these high virtues, + to the end that they may be equal to their opportunities and to the + dangers that surround them. The chief instrumentalities in this + education are the home, the school, the platform, the pulpit, and + the press, and all good men and women are the educators. + + "Doubt and difficulty and danger lend to every human enterprise its + chief interest and charm. Every man who fought in the Army of the + Tennessee at Shiloh knows that the gloom and despondency in which + the first day's battle closed, gave an added glory to the victory + of the second day; that the victory is always most highly prized + which, after a long and desperate struggle, is snatched at last + from the very jaws of disaster and defeat. + + "If, in the future of our country, trials and conflicts and + calamities await her, it is but the common allotment of Providence + to men. The brave and the good will (here always) find noble work + and a worthy career, and will rejoice that they are permitted to + live and to act in such a country as the American republic." + +In July, 1872, Ex-Governor Hayes received a petition, signed by the most +influential men in the second Congressional district in Cincinnati, +asking him to accept a nomination for Congress. Scores of letters and +telegrams were sent to him at Fremont, where he was detained by illness +in his family, urging upon him the duty of sacrificing personal to +public interests and consent to become a candidate. He refused +absolutely. The nominating convention met August 6th, and the following +telegram tells the story: + + "In spite of your protests, you were nominated on first ballot. + Great enthusiasm, and whole party lifted up. We assured Republicans + that Governor Hayes never retreated when ordered to advance. Things + are looking bright. + + "RICHARD SMITH." + +Two days after, a petition was forwarded, signed by two hundred +influential Republican and non-partisan voters of the second district, +containing the words, we "most urgently solicit you to accept the +nomination given you." + +His acceptance being demanded on the ground of duty, he returned to +Cincinnati and made the canvass. At Glendale, on September 4, he +delivered a lengthy speech, from which we take these extracts: + + _Fellow-citizens:_ + + My purpose in addressing you this evening is to spread before the + people of the second district my views on the questions of National + policy which now engage the public attention. + + In the present condition of the country, two things are of vital + importance--peace and a sound financial policy. We want + peace--honorable peace--with all nations; peace with the Indians, + and peace between all of the citizens of all of the States. We want + a financial policy so honest that there can be no stain on the + National honor and no taint on the National credit; so stable that + labor and capital and legitimate business of every sort can + confidently count upon what it will be the next week, the next + month, and the next year. We want the burdens of taxation so justly + distributed that they will bear equally upon all classes of + citizens in proportion to their ability to sustain them. + + We want our currency gradually to appreciate, until, without + financial shock or any sudden shrinkage of values, but in the + natural course of trade, it shall reach the uniform and permanent + value of gold. With lasting peace assured, and a sound financial + condition established, the United States and all of her citizens + may reasonably expect to enjoy a measure of prosperity without a + parallel in the world's history. + + When the debates of the last presidential election were in + progress, four years ago, there were troubles with other nations + threatening the public peace, and, in particular, there was a most + difficult, irritating, and dangerous controversy with Great + Britain, which it seemed almost impossible peaceably to settle. Now + we are at peace with all nations; the American government is + everywhere abroad held in the highest honor; and an example of + submitting National disputes to the decision of a court of + arbitration has been set, which is of incalculable value to the + world. + + * * * * * + + Four years ago, and for a considerable period since, the public + peace has been broken or threatened in a majority of the late slave + States, by bands of lawless men, oath bound, disguised, and armed, + who, by terror, by scourging, and by assassination, undertook to + deprive unoffending citizens, both white and colored, of their most + cherished rights, for no reason except a difference of political + sentiment. Now these organizations have, it is claimed by their + political associates, disbanded. Large numbers of citizens in those + States, heretofore hostile to the recent amendments to the + constitution, and to the equal rights of colored people, declare + themselves satisfied with those amendments, and ready to maintain + the constitutional rights of colored citizens. Notwithstanding the + predictions of our adversaries, that to confer political rights + upon colored people would lead to a war of races, white people and + colored people are now voting side by side in all of the old slave + States, and their elections are quite as free from violence and + disorder as they were when whites alone were the voters. In a word, + peace prevails in the South to an extent which, under the + circumstances, the ablest statesmen among our adversaries three + years ago pronounced impossible. The watchword of the Republican + party four years ago was "Let us have peace." A survey of every + field where the public peace was then imperiled, of our affairs + with foreign nations, with the Indians, and in the South, shows + that the pledge implied in that famous watchword has been + substantially made good, and that, if the people continue to stand + by the government, the peace we now enjoy will be continued and + enduring. + + + CIVIL SERVICE REFORM. + + There are several questions relating to the present and the future + which merit the attention of the people. Among the most interesting + of these is the question of civil service reform. + + About forty years ago a system of making appointments to office + grew up, based on the maxim, "to the victors belong the spoils." + The old rule--the true rule--that honesty, capacity, and fidelity + constitute the highest claim to office, gave place to the idea that + partisan services were to be chiefly considered. All parties in + practice have adopted this system. Since its first introduction it + has been materially modified. At first, the president, either + directly or through the heads of departments, made all + appointments. Gradually, by usage, the appointing power in many + cases was transferred to members of Congress--to senators and + representatives. The offices in these cases have become not so much + rewards for party services as rewards for personal services in + nominating and electing senators and representatives. What + patronage the president and his cabinet retain, and what offices + congressmen are by usage entitled to fill is not definitely + settled. A congressman who maintains good relations with the + executive usually receives a larger share of patronage than one who + is independent. The system is a bad one. It destroys the + independence of the separate departments of the government, and it + degrades the civil service. It ought to be abolished. General Grant + has again and again explicitly recommended reform. A majority of + Congress has been unable to agree upon any important measure. + Doubtless the bills which have been introduced contain + objectionable features. But the work should be begun. Let the best + obtainable bill be passed, and experience will show what amendments + are required. I would support either Senator Trumbull's bill or Mr. + Jenckes' bill, if nothing better were proposed. The admirable + speeches on this subject by the representative of the first + district, the Hon. Aaron F. Perry, contain the best exposition I + have seen of sound doctrine on this question, and I trust the day + is not distant when the principles which he advocates will be + embodied in practical measures of legislation. We ought to have a + reform of the system of appointments to the civil service, + thorough, radical, and complete. + +The people of the United States will be agreeably surprised to learn +that, four years ago, not only the sentiments, but almost the identical +language of the recent letter of acceptance upon the subject of this +great reform was publicly proclaimed by the Republican candidate for the +presidency. + +In 1872, when the Presidency was not in his thoughts, he advocated with +great force the doctrines which Independent Republicans especially +commend him for maintaining to-day. These opinions it would then be +foolishly needless to say are honest; they are deep-rooted convictions +of long growth. + +The elections went heavily against the Republicans in Hamilton county, +in 1872. Mr. Eggleston, the sitting member of Congress from the First +District, was beaten three thousand five hundred and sixty-nine votes; +and General Hayes was defeated by General H. B. Banning, whose majority +was one thousand five hundred and two. Compared with the result in the +First District, Hayes ran a thousand votes ahead of his ticket. He had +performed his duty and was satisfied. + +A few months later he was offered, by the President, the office of +Assistant Treasurer of the United States, at Cincinnati, which +appointment he respectfully declined. + +The years 1873 and 1874 were employed by General Hayes in making and +adorning a future home for himself and his family, near Fremont. He +planted over a thousand trees, and filled his grounds with vines, +shrubs, and flowers. + +In January, 1874, his patron uncle and life-long friend Sardis Birchard +died, leaving his favorite nephew heir to a considerable estate. It +elevates our estimate of human nature to find that this heir-apparent, +or rather heir inevitable to a handsome fortune, diminished the amount +he would naturally inherit by persuading his uncle to make bequests, +amounting to seventy-five thousand dollars, to the citizens of Fremont +for a Public Park and a Free Public Library. It is not necessary to add, +that this unselfish course of action makes known character, nor to say +what kind of a character it makes known. + +The Republican State Convention, which assembled at Columbus, June 2, +1875, nominated General Hayes a third time for the office of Governor. +He received the news of the nomination while playing base ball with his +children at their home in Fremont. The circumstances of this nomination +were extraordinary, and the honor it implied exceptional. The facts, in +brief, were these: The Hon. William Allen having been put in nomination +by the Democrats, for the office of Governor, in 1873, mainly through +the influence of his nephew, Senator Thurman, was elected by a small +majority in October of that year. Mr. Allen, as Governor, made himself +active in the direction of economy and the reduction of taxation, and +seemed to increase his popularity because of the high reputation he +enjoyed for personal integrity. Early in 1875 it became apparent that he +would secure, without opposition, a re-nomination. It became equally +apparent, also, that the Republicans would encounter no slight +difficulty in defeating him. He was in possession, he had the _prestige_ +of victory, and was immensely popular with his party. It was the +plainest dictate of policy and duty for the Republicans to proceed with +extremest caution and put in nomination their very strongest man. +Personal ambitions and interests must be put aside in every great +emergency, when the success of a cause is at stake. What every great +emergency needs is a MAN. The eyes of the Republicans of Ohio were at +the same period of time turned toward Hayes as that leader--that man. He +was written to, from every portion of the State, to consent to become +again a candidate. His uniform reply was, that he had retired finally +and absolutely from public life, and that his tastes and interests would +keep him at home. Some, receiving these responses in the spirit in which +they were given, looked around for other candidates. In Cincinnati there +was a strong local influence favoring Judge Taft, the able and most +estimable gentleman who is now Attorney-General of the United States. +Governor Hayes repeatedly announced that he would, under no +circumstances, be a candidate against his friend, Judge Taft, and urged +the delegates from his county to support Taft, which they did. +Notwithstanding these facts, when the Convention met, the delegates, +according to the public statement of General Grosvenor, were four to one +in favor of Hayes' nomination. On the first ballot, two hundred and +seventy-four being necessary to a choice, Hayes received four votes less +than four hundred, and Taft one hundred fifty-one. The nomination was +made unanimous on motion of Judge Taft's son. + +Finding himself once more an involuntary candidate for office, Governor +Hayes lost no time in getting ready for the supreme struggle, thus far, +of his life. Visiting, three weeks later, the home of his relative, +General Mitchell, in Columbus, he was serenaded by the Hayes Club of the +capital city, and, in response to their calls, foreshadowed the great +issues of the approaching campaign. Without circumlocution, he said: + + "If it shall turn out that the party in power are opposed to a + sound, safe, stable currency, I have no doubt that in October the + people will make a change. If it shall turn out that the party in + power were guilty of gross corruption in the legislative + department, and that when that corruption was exposed the majority + shielded those who were implicated, I have no doubt the people will + make a change. If it shall turn out that the party in power yielded + to the dictation of an ecclesiastical sect, and through fear of a + threatened loss of votes and power has suffered itself to be + domineered over in its exercise of the law-making power, there + ought to be, as I doubt not there will be, a great change. If it + shall turn out that the party in power is dangerously allied to any + body of men who are opposed to our free schools, and have + proclaimed undying hostility to our educational system, then I + doubt not the people will make a change in the administration." + +The convention which nominated Hayes had adopted some sensible +resolutions. It declared, first, that: + + "The United States are one as a Nation, and all citizens are equal + under the laws, and entitled to their fullest protection. + + "_Third._ We are in favor of a tariff for revenue with incidental + protection to American industry. + + "_Fourth._ We stand by free education, our public school system, + the taxation of all for its support, and no division of the school + fund. + + "_Eleventh._ The observance of Washington's example in retiring at + the close of a second presidential term will be in the future, as + it has been in the past, regarded as a fundamental rule in the + unwritten law of the Republic." + +The Democratic State Convention met on the 17th of June, and was +presided over by Judge Rufus P. Ranney. It renominated Governor Allen by +acclamation and a rising vote amidst great cheering. + +The governor delivered an intemperate speech upon the occasion, in which +his denunciation was about equally divided between the old alien and +sedition laws and Grant's administration. Samuel F. Cary, nominated for +lieutenant-governor, made a loud speech. Pendleton, Ewing, Thurman, +Allen, and Cary spoke at the ratification meeting in the evening. + +The platform contained the sound proposition that the president's +services should be limited to one term, thereby endorsing a material +part of Governor Hayes' letter of acceptance in advance. It also +contained what some have called the rascally, others the asinine +propositions that the volume of currency should be made and kept equal +to the wants of trade; that all National Bank circulation should be +promptly and permanently retired, and legal tenders be issued in their +stead, and that the payment of at least one-half of the customs should +be in legal tenders. + +Senator Thurman, much to the surprise of his eastern friends, acquiesced +in, or at least failed to denounce this inflation platform. He forgot +the proverb that it is the bold man who wins. Had he made a ringing, +thirty-minutes, hard-money speech on the occasion, no power on the +continent could probably have kept him out of the White House. This was +the day of his destiny, but the day of his destiny is over. + +The public and non-partisan estimate of this Democratic platform is +fairly reflected in the editorial utterances of the Cincinnati +_Commercial_ of June 18th, to the effect that: + + "This platform is a declaration of war upon the National credit. + The programme of repudiation is made particularly clear.... The + contest in Ohio this summer in an extraordinary degree concerns the + Nation." + +The Chicago _Times_ said: + + "If Allen be elected, the immediate effect is very sure to be a + prodigious rise in the threatening and dangerous tidal wave of + inflation and repudiation. The political tradition which goes by + the name of the Democratic party, will be forthwith pervaded in + every part by an active and aggressive repudiation sentiment." + +The inflation Democracy were not only hopeful but boastful. Governor +Allen made and repeated the prediction that he would be re-elected by +from 60,000 to 70,000 majority. He said that he would not compromise +with Hayes on 20,000. It was represented that the hard times were caused +by the Republicans, and that the people wanted "more money," which +interpreted meant more debts or due bills. Much was said on the stump +about what "the people think," forgetting that the material question is +not what they think, but what they ought to think. + +Governor Hayes was not unmindful of the national and international +importance of the contest. Knowing that the Democrats had carried the +State the year before by a majority of 17,000 on their State ticket and +24,000 on their Congressional ticket, he did not underrate the +difficulties to be contended with in the struggle. Several Republican +members of Congress had taken the inflation shute, and were continually +writing him not to be too decided; that a little more currency would be +a good thing. But he buckled on his hard-money armor, and going into the +contest early, delivered at Marion, Lawrence county, the sound and solid +speech which closes this volume. Thus, in the midst of the miners and +furnace men who were suffering most from hard times and clamoring most +loudly for more money, Hayes boldly proclaimed his sound currency creed, +and opposed inflation to the extent of a dollar. + +Strong men came from other States to aid him in this battle against +odds. The strongest in this kind of battle were Stewart L. Woodford, of +New York, and Schurz and Grosvenor, of Missouri. General Woodford, in +the dozen debates he conducted with General Ewing, the ablest of the +inflationists, developed debating abilities of the first order, and +exhibited a complete mastery of the science of finance. + +Colonel Wm. M. Grosvenor showed the same powers on the stump he had +shown as a writer, and presented arguments which will probably remain +unanswered for some centuries to come. + +Carl Schurz appeared late in the field, upon the call of two hundred +merchants of Cincinnati, who assured him that the cause of "National +honor and common honesty" was involved, and delivered a half dozen +superb speeches. Senator Morton, Senator Oglesby, Senator Windom, and +Senators Sherman, Dawes, and Boutwell took part in the canvass. + +Attorney-General Taft, Ex-Governor Noyes, Garfield, Monroe, Foster, +Danford, and Lawrence strengthened the State forces. + +We can not waste time upon the dreary drivel on the inflation side of +this campaign. Men who have not learned the elementary principles of the +science of political economy, who have not mastered the definitions, as +we say, in geometry, could say nothing intelligible to the finite +understanding. The speeches were as "incoherent" as the New York _World_ +proved the platform to be. They all contained doctrines, however, in +perpendicular antagonism to the financial doctrines of the St. Louis +convention. When the inflationists learn what money is--what its office, +its function is--they may be able to resume the discussion of finance +with their opponents in the Democratic party. + +After a campaign which called forth almost daily leaders from the press +of New York and London, and aroused the interest of Europe, General +Hayes was a third time elected governor of Ohio by a majority of 5,544. + +The character of the contest lifted him from a State leader to a +national, an international man, and made the presidency a possibility. +We now leave the reader to engage in the profitable pleasure of reading +the only Ohio governor's third inaugural: + + _Fellow-citizens of the General Assembly:_ + + Questions of National concern, in the existing condition of public + affairs, may well be left to those officers to whom the people, in + conformity with the constitution of the United States, have + confided the important duties and responsibilities of the various + departments of the general government. + + During the term for which you have been elected, the constitution + of the State devolves on you the task of dealing with many subjects + very interesting to the people of Ohio. The duty of communicating + to you the condition of the State, and of recommending measures + deemed expedient, was performed at the opening of your present + session by the distinguished citizen who has preceded me in the + executive office. In complying with the usage which requires me to + appear before you on this occasion, I am, therefore, relieved from + the necessity of entering upon any extensive examination of the + subjects which will claim your attention. There are, however, a few + topics on which brief suggestions may, perhaps, be profitably + submitted. + + The attention of the legislature has often been earnestly invoked + to the rapid increase of municipal and other local expenditures, + and the consequent augmentation of local taxation and local + indebtedness. This increase is found mainly in the cities and large + towns. It is certainly a great evil. How to govern cities well, + consistently with the principles and methods of popular government, + is one of the most important and difficult problems of our time. + Profligate expenditure is the fruitful cause of municipal + misgovernment. If a means can be found which will keep municipal + expenses from largely exceeding the public necessities, its + adoption will go far toward securing honesty and efficiency in city + affairs. In cities large debts and bad government go together. + Cities which have the lightest taxes and smallest debts are apt, + also, to have the purest and most satisfactory governments. + + The following statement, showing the increase of municipal taxation + and indebtedness in the cities and large towns of Ohio, ought to + arrest attention: + + In 1871, in thirty-one of the principal cities and towns of the + State, the average rate of taxation was twenty-three and one-tenth + mills on the dollar. The total amount of taxes levied for all + purposes was $8,988,064. The total indebtedness was $7,187,082. + + In 1875, in the same cities and towns, the average rate of taxation + was twenty-eight and three-tenths mills on the dollar. The total + amount of taxes levied for all purposes was $12,361,934. The total + indebtedness was $20,800,491. + + The salient points in this statement are, that in four years the + rate of municipal taxation has increased almost 25 per cent; the + total amount of municipal taxes has increased over thirty-seven per + cent, and municipal indebtedness has increased about one hundred + and ninety per cent, or more than thirteen and a half millions of + dollars. If this great increase of burdens affected directly the + whole people of the State, they would give their agents in the + legislative and executive departments of the State government no + peace until effective measures to prevent its continuance were + adopted. But, in fact, the whole people of the State are deeply + interested in this subject. The burdens borne by the cities and + towns must be shared, in part at least, by all who transact + business with them. The town and the neighboring country have a + common interest, and, in many respects must be regarded as one + community. + + It has been said that the discretion committed to the local + authorities, however limited and guarded, must be necessarily + large; that in respect to the imposition of the largest proportion + of the burden imposed upon the citizen, they constitute the real + legislature; and that for the prevention of the evils we are + considering, the people must exercise the greatest care in the + choice of citizens to fill the important local offices. Experience + does not seem to justify the expectation that an adequate remedy + can be obtained in this way. + + I submit that to the subject of local indebtedness the General + Assembly should apply the principles of the State constitution on + the subject of State indebtedness. + + It is not enough to require in every grant of special authority to + incur debt as a condition precedent that the people interested + shall approve it by their votes. It is well known how easily such + elections are carried under the influence of local excitement and + local rivalries. If the rule of the State constitution which + forbids all debts except in certain specified emergencies is deemed + too stringent to be applied to local affairs, the legislature + should at least accompany every authority to contract debt with an + imperative requirement that a tax sufficient to pay off the + indebtedness within a brief period shall be immediately levied, and + thus compel every citizen who votes to increase debts to vote at + the same time for an immediate increase of taxes sufficient to + discharge them. + + The wisdom of the policy long since adopted of placing a judicious + limitation on the power of municipal authorities to levy taxes has + been vindicated by experience. It must, however, ultimately fail to + accomplish its object if the increase of municipal indebtedness is + allowed to go on. To authorize a town to contract a debt, whose + expenditures already require taxation up to the limit allowed by + law, is, in its necessary effect, tantamount to a repeal of the + limitation. + + Under the provisions of the eighth article of the constitution, + already referred to, the State debt, notwithstanding the + extraordinary expenditures of the war, has been reduced from over + twenty millions, the amount due in 1851, until it is now only about + seven millions. An important part of the constitutional provisions + which have been so successful in State finances is the section + which requires the creation of a sinking fund and the annual + payment of a constantly increasing sum on the principal of the + State debt. Let a requirement analogous to this be enacted in + regard to existing local indebtedness; let a judicious limitation + of the rate of taxation which local authorities may levy be + strictly adhered to, and allow no further indebtedness to be + authorized except in conformity with these principles; and we may, + I believe, confidently expect that within a few years the burdens + of debt now resting upon the cities and towns of the State will + disappear, and that other wholesome and much needed reforms in the + whole administration of our municipal government will of necessity + follow the adoption of what may be called the cash system in local + affairs. + + Among the most interesting duties you will have to perform are + those which relate to the guardianship and care of the unfortunate + classes of society and to the punishment and reformation of + criminals. According to the latest official reports the State is + responsible for the support and care of about fifteen thousand of + her dependent citizens. The State is also bound to see that many + thousands more, who are imprisoned for longer or shorter periods on + account of crime, have just and wise treatment. There is annually + expended in the performance of these duties a sum exceeding two and + a half millions of dollars. The people of Ohio feel a profound + interest in what are known as the benevolent, reformatory, and + penal institutions of the State. + + In order that the General Assembly might from time to time receive + full and accurate information as to the efficiency of the + management of these institutions, and of the county and city jails, + infirmaries, and work-houses, it was enacted in 1867 that a Board + of State Charities be established. It was intended that this board + should be composed of citizens of intelligence and benevolence, who + would serve without compensation. They were "to investigate the + system of the public charitable and correctional institutions of + the State, and to make such recommendations as they might deem + necessary." They were also required to make annually a full and + complete report of their doings to the legislature. In pursuance of + this law a board was organized, which, at a trifling expense to the + State, did much valuable work. By reason of their investigations + and reports, important improvements were introduced into the + infirmaries and jails of the State, and the general efficiency of + our penal and reformatory system was increased. In 1872 the General + Assembly, without due consideration, it is believed, repealed the + act creating the board. I respectfully recommend that the Board of + State Charities be re-established. + + It is believed that an investigation in the interest of economy + will discover that several offices, somewhat expensive to the + State, may, without detriment to the public service, be either + abolished, or so consolidated as to accomplish a material saving to + the treasury. + + Agreeing generally with the sentiments of Governor Allen's recent + message, I desire especially to concur in what is said on the + subject of the National Centennial Celebration. + + No community in the world has been permitted by Providence to enjoy + more largely the blessings conferred on mankind by the great event + of 1776 than the people of Ohio. Ohio and her interests had no + existence one hundred years ago. They are the growth of less than a + century. The people naturally wish that their State, and her + history, and her advantages should be widely known. No other such + opportunity for their exhibition will probably occur for several + generations. + + Let your session be short--avoid all schemes requiring excessive + expenditure, whether State or local, and your constituents will + cheerfully approve the appropriation required to secure to Ohio a + fitting representation in the approaching celebration of the + Nation's birth. + + Before taking the oath of office, I desire to make my + acknowledgments to my predecessor, Governor Allen, for the friendly + and considerate way in which he has treated me, both during and + since the recent political contest in Ohio; and to express the + wish, in which I am sure you and all the people whom he has served + will unite with me, that, returning to his beautiful home + overlooking the ancient capital of our State, he may enjoy for many + years to come the best blessings which belong to this stage of + existence. + + + + +CHAPTER X. + +NOMINATION TO THE PRESIDENCY. + + _Early Suggestions--Letters on Subject--Garfield Letter--Action of + State Convention--Cincinnati Convention--Course of his + Friends--First and Second Day's Events--Speech of + Noyes--Balloting--Nominated on Seventh Ballot--Officially + Notified--Habits--Personal Appearance--Family--Letter of + Acceptance--Character as a Soldier, Magistrate, and Man--Domestic + Surroundings._ + + +No able man can for a long time fill the office of chief magistrate of +one of the three great States of the Union without having his name more +or less mentioned by his friends in connection with the presidency. As +early as October, 1871, the president of the Chamber of Commerce of +Cincinnati, at a large public meeting held in that city just prior to +the fall election, introduced Governor Hayes as the next Republican +candidate for President of the United States. + +In 1872 a modest poet was inspired by the surrounding sentiment to sing: + + "We bow not down to yonder rising sun, + As did the Parsee worshiper of old, + But bend in homage when its race is run, + And watch it sink in purple-fretted gold. + And thus to thee, oh Hayes! the tried, the true, + On battle-field and in the civic chair, + Our heart's deep gratitude, thy meed and due, + (As closes far too soon thy proud career), + Goes out with benedictions pure and high: + Oh may thy set be brief, and, like the sun, + Rise thou again--thy light to fill the sky, + A brighter course of glory still to run, + Till millions now unborn shall hail thy name + In ages yet to come, with grand acclaim!" + +Early in 1875 he was overwhelmed with letters urging upon him the +acceptance of the third nomination for governor. Many of these letters +presented as an inducement in favor of acceptance that if he ran for +governor and succeeded in beating Allen, the prize of the presidency +would be within his reach. To one of these letters from a leading editor +he replied on April 10: + + "The personal advantages you suggest rather tend to repel me. The + melancholy thing in our public life is the insane desire to get + higher.... But now I can't take that direction, and I will be ever + so much obliged if you will help drop me out of it as smoothly as + may be." + +To a member of the State legislature he wrote: + + "Content with the past, I am not in a state of mind about the + future. It is for us to act well in the present. George E. Pugh + used to say there is no political hereafter." + +In the canvass of 1875, so much were the hearts of the people set upon +having their great State leader the National leader, that the masses +were invited in announcements for political meetings to come out and +hear "the next President of the United States." + +As illustrating the firmness of Governor Hayes in adhering to +convictions, we give below a letter addressed to Hon. James A. Garfield. +It must be remembered that at the time this letter was written the +paper money madness prevailed through Ohio and in Congress to an +alarming extent. + + EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, STATE OF OHIO, } + COLUMBUS, _March 4, 1876._ } + + _My Dear General:_ + + I have your note of 2d. I am kept busy with callers, + correspondence, and the routine details of the office, and have not + therefore tried to keep abreast of the currents of opinion on any + of the issues. My notion is that the true contest is to be between + inflation and a sound currency. The Democrats are again drifting + all to the wrong side. We need not divide on details, on methods, + or time when. + + The previous question will again be irredeemable paper as a + permanent policy, or a policy which seeks a return to coin. My + opinion is decidedly against yielding a hair's breadth. + + We can't be on the inflation side of the question. We must keep our + face, our front, firmly in the other direction. "No steps + backward," must be something more than unmeaning platform words. + "The drift of sentiment among our friends in Ohio," which you + inquire about, will depend on the conduct of our leading men. It is + for them to see that the right sentiment is steadily upheld. We are + in a condition such that firmness and adherence to principle are of + peculiar value just now. I would "consent" to no backward steps. To + yield or compromise is weakness, and will destroy us. If a better + resumption measure can be substituted for the present one, that may + do. But keep cool. We can better afford to be beaten in Congress + than to back out. + + Sincerely, + R. B. HAYES. + +Here is high courage and lofty political morality. The letter proclaims +the grand truth that the only inquiry worthy of a statesman is, not what +the tendency of public opinion is, but what ought it to be? + +To a delegate to the Cincinnati Convention he wrote, under date of April +6: + + "Having done absolutely nothing to make myself the candidate of + Ohio, I feel very little responsibility for future results. When + the State Convention was called it seemed probable that if I + encouraged my friends to organize for the purpose, every district + would elect my decided supporters. But to make such an effort in my + own behalf, to use Payne's phrase on repudiation, 'I abhorred.'" + +The Republican State Convention, which met March 29, had passed, by a +unanimous vote, and with boundless enthusiasm, the following resolution: + + "The Republican party of Ohio, having full confidence in the + honesty, ability, and patriotism of Rutherford B. Hayes, cordially + presents him to the National Republican Convention, for the + nomination for president of the United States, and our State + delegates to that Convention are instructed and the district + delegates are requested to use their earnest efforts to secure his + nomination." + +We shall not stop to trace the growth of the Hayes sentiment in other +States. When the Sixth Republican National Convention assembled in +Cincinnati, on June 14, 1876, the situation was this: Hayes was the +first choice of every one for the second place on the ticket, and every +one's second choice for the first. He and his friends had in no way +antagonized other candidates, and had been guilty of no uncharitableness +of judgment toward them. In the convention, he was modestly presented as +the one candidate who could harmonize all interests, and unite all party +elements. His friends argued that he combined merit and availability to +a higher degree than any one whose name was before the convention. + +The spirit of the convention was good, and there seemed a willing +response to this portion of the opening prayer: + + "By Thy grace, give to them a spirit of concord, that harmony may + prevail in their counsels; a spirit of wisdom that may discern and + use the right means to promote the end for which they are convened; + a spirit of patriotism, that the prosperity of the Nation may + overshadow all personal or sectional desires; a spirit of courage, + that they may be faithful to the deepest convictions of duty." + +Ex-Governor Morgan, of New York, Chairman of the National Executive +Committee, in his opening address, pertinently said: + + "Resumption accomplished, then, in all human probability, will + follow ten or fifteen years of prosperity, equal to that of any + former period, perhaps greater than the country has yet seen. If + you will, in addition, put a plank in your platform, declaring for + such an amendment of the constitution as will extend the + presidential office to six years, and make the incumbent ineligible + for re-election, you will deserve the gratitude of the American + people." + +The Hon. Theodore M. Pomeroy, Temporary Chairman, forcibly declared: + + "No, gentlemen, the late war was not a mere prize-fight for + National supremacy. It was the outgrowth of the conflict of + irreconcilable moral, social, and political forces. Democracy had + its lot with the moral, social, and political forces of the cause + which was lost; the Republican party with those which triumphed and + survived. The preservation of the results of that victory devolves + upon us here and now. Democracy has no traditions of the past, no + impulses of the present, no aspirations for the future, fitting it + for this task. The reaction of 1874 has already spent itself in a + vain effort to realize the situation. It has simply demonstrated + that no change in the machinery of the government can be had + outside of the Republican party, without drawing with it a + practical nullification of the great work of reconstruction, + financial chaos, and administrative revolution. The present House + of Representatives has succeeded in nothing except the development + of its own incapacity." + +The additional speeches delivered on the first day (which was devoted to +organization) were by Senator Logan, General Joseph R. Hawley, +Ex-Governor Noyes, Rev. Henry Highland Garnett, Ex-Governor Wm. A. +Howard, of Michigan, and Fred. Douglass. + +Mr. Douglass was vociferously applauded, when he said: + + "The thing, however, in which I feel the deepest interest, and the + thing in which I believe this country feels the deepest interest, + is that the principles involved in the contest which carried your + sons and brothers to the battle-field, which draped our Northern + churches with the weeds of mourning, and filled our towns and our + cities with mere stumps of men--armless, legless, maimed, and + mutilated--the thing for which you poured out your blood and piled + a debt for after-coming generations higher than a mountain of gold, + to weigh down the necks of your children and your children's + children--I say those principles, those principles involved in that + tremendous contest, are to be dearer to the American people in the + great political struggle now upon them than any other principles we + have." + +The most significant event of the first day's proceedings was the +reading from the platform, by George William Curtis, of the outspoken +address of the Republican Reform Club of the city of New York. + +The Hon. Edward McPherson, of Pennsylvania, was chosen permanent +chairman. The important events of the second day's proceedings were the +adoption of the platform and the putting presidential candidates in +nomination. The candidate the convention subsequently selected was +placed in nomination by Ex-Governor Noyes, of Ohio, through the +following eminently appropriate speech: + + GENTLEMEN:--On behalf of the forty-four delegates from Ohio, + representing the entire Republican party of Ohio, I have the honor + to present to this convention the name of a gentleman well known + and favorably known throughout the country; one held in high + respect, and much beloved, by the people of Ohio; a man who, during + the dark and stormy days of the rebellion, when those who are + invincible in peace and invisible in battle were uttering brave + words to cheer their neighbors on, himself, in the fore-front of + battle, followed his leaders and his flag until the authority of + our government was established from the lakes to the Gulf, and from + the river round to the sea. A man who has had the rare good fortune + since the war was over to be twice elected to Congress from the + district where he resided, and subsequently the rarer fortune of + beating successively for the highest office in the gift of the + people of Ohio, Allen G. Thurman, George H. Pendleton, and William + Allen. He is a gentleman who has somehow fallen into the habit of + defeating Democratic aspirants for the Presidency, and we in Ohio + all have a notion that from long experience he will be able to do + it again. In presenting the name of Governor Hayes, permit me to + say we wage no war upon the distinguished gentlemen whose names + have been mentioned here to-day. They have rendered great service + to their country, which entitles them to our respect and to our + gratitude. I have no word to utter against them. I only wish to say + that General Hayes is the peer of these gentlemen in integrity, in + character, in ability. They appear as equals in all the great + qualities which fit men for the highest positions which the + American people can give them. Governor Hayes is honest; he is + brave; he is unpretending; he is wise, sagacious, a scholar, and a + gentleman. Enjoying an independent fortune, the simplicity of his + private life, his modesty of bearing, is a standing rebuke to the + extravagance--the reckless extravagance--which leads to corruption + in public and in private places. + + Remember now, delegates to the convention, that a responsible duty + rests upon you. You can be governed by no wild impulse. You can run + no fearful risks in this campaign. You must, if you would succeed, + nominate a candidate here who will not only carry the old, strong + Republican States, but who will carry Indiana, Ohio, and New York, + as well as other doubtful States. We care not who the man shall be, + other than our own candidate. Whoever you nominate, men of the + convention, shall receive our heartiest and most earnest efforts + for their success. But we beg to submit that in Governor Hayes you + have those qualities which are calculated best to compromise all + difficulties, and to soften all antagonisms. He has no personal + enemies: His private life is so pure that no man has ever dared to + assail it. His public acts throughout all these years have been + above suspicion even. I ask you, then, if, in the lack of these + antagonisms, and with all of these good qualities, living in a + State which holds its election in October, the result of which will + be decisive, it may be, of the presidential campaign--it is not + worth while to see to it that a candidate is nominated against whom + nothing can be said, and who is sure to succeed in the campaign? + + In conclusion, permit me to say that, if the wisdom of this + convention shall decide at last that Governor Hayes' nomination is + safest, and is best, that decision will meet with such responsive + enthusiasm here in Ohio as will insure Republican success at home, + and which will be so far-reaching and wide-spreading as to make + success almost certain from the Atlantic to the Pacific. + +The nomination was seconded by Benjamin F. Wade, of Ohio, Colonel J. W. +Davis, of West Virginia, Hon. A. St. Gem, and Hon. J. P. Jones, of +Missouri. + +The third and last day of the sitting of the Convention was employed in +balloting and in making the nominations. + +At twenty minutes to 11 the balloting for president began: + +FIRST +BALLOT. + +Bl: Blaine +Mo: Morton +Co: Conkling +Br: Bristow +Hy: Hayes +Hr: Hartranft +Wh: Wheeler +Je: Jewell + +-----------------------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----- + STATES. | Bl | Mo | Co | Br | Hy | Hr | Wh | Je +-----------------------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----- +Alabama | 10 | | | 7 | 2 | | | 1 +Arkansas | | 12 | | | | | | +California | 9 | | 1 | 2 | | | | +Connecticut | | | | 2 | | | | 10 +Delaware | 6 | | | | | | | +Florida | 1 | 4 | 8 | | | | | +Georgia | 5 | 6 | 8 | 3 | | | | +Illinois | 38 | | | 3 | 1 | | | +Indiana | | 30 | | | | | | +Iowa | 22 | | | | | | | +Kansas | 10 | | | | | | | +Kentucky | | | | 24 | | | | +Louisiana | 2 | 14 | | | | | | +Maine | 14 | | | | | | | +Maryland | 16 | | | | | | | +Massachusetts | 6 | | | 17 | | | 3 | +Michigan | 8 | | 1 | 9 | 4 | | | +Minnesota | 10 | | | | | | | +Mississippi | | 12 | | 3 | | | | +Missouri | 14 | 12 | 1 | 2 | 1 | | | +Nebraska | 6 | | | | | | | +Nevada | | | 2 | 3 | 1 | | | +New Hampshire | 7 | | | 3 | | | | +New Jersey | 13 | | | | 5 | | | +New York | | | 69 | 1 | | | | +North Carolina | 9 | 2 | 7 | 1 | | | | +Ohio | | | | | 44 | | | +Oregon | 6 | | | | | | | +Pennsylvania | | | | | | 58 | | +Rhode Island | 2 | | | 6 | | | | +South Carolina | | 13 | | 1 | | | | +Texas | 2 | 5 | 3 | 6 | | | | +Tennessee | 4 | 10 | | 10 | | | | +Vermont | 1 | | | 8 | 1 | | | +Virginia | 16 | 3 | 3 | | | | | +West Virginia | 8 | | | | 2 | | | +Wisconsin | 20 | | | | | | | +Arizona | 2 | | | | | | | +Colorado | 6 | | | | | | | +Dakota | 2 | | | | | | | +Idaho | 2 | | | | | | | +Montana | 2 | | | | | | | +New Mexico | 2 | | | | | | | +Utah | 2 | | | | | | | +District of Columbia | | 2 | | | | | | +Washington | 2 | | | | | | | +Wyoming | 1 | | | 1 | | | | +-----------------------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----- + Totals |285 |125 | 99 |113 | 61 | 58 | 3 | 11 +-----------------------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----- + +The second ballot resulted as follows: Blaine, 296; Morton, 120; +Bristow, 114; Conkling, 93; Hayes, 64; Hartranft, 63: Wheeler, 3; +Washburne, 1. + +Third ballot: Blaine, 293; Bristow, 121; Morton, 113; Conkling, 90; +Hartranft, 08; Hayes, 67; Wheeler, 2; Washburne, 1. + +Fourth ballot: Blaine, 292; Bristow, 126; Morton, 108; Conkling, 84; +Hartranft, 71; Hayes, 68; Washburne, 3; Wheeler, 2. + +Fifth ballot: Whole number of votes cast, 755. Necessary to a choice, +378. Not voting, 1. Blaine, 286; Morton, 95; Bristow, 114; Conkling, 82; +Hayes, 104; Hartranft, 69; Wheeler (Mass.), 2; Washburne, (Ga. 1, 111. +1, Minn. 1), 3. + +On this ballot Hayes passed from the fifth to the third place, through +the aid of 22 votes cast for him by Michigan, and 12 by North Carolina. +This was the first distinct foreshadowing of the result. + +On the sixth ballot Hayes was second, the vote standing: Blaine, 308; +Hayes, 113; Bristow, 111; Morton, 85; Conkling, 81; Hartranft, 50; +Washburne, 5; Wheeler, 2. + +The decisive ballot stood: + +SEVENTH BALLOT. + +STATES. Hayes Blaine Bristow + +Alabama 17 3 +Arkansas 1 11 +California 3 16 +Connecticut 3 2 7 +Delaware 6 +Florida 8 +Georgia 7 14 1 +Illinois 3 35 5 +Indiana 25 5 +Iowa 22 +Kansas 10 +Kentucky 24 +Louisiana 2 14 +Maine 14 +Maryland 16 +Massachusetts 21 5 +Michigan 22 +Minnesota 1 9 +Mississippi 16 +Missouri 10 20 +Nebraska 6 +Nevada 6 +New Hampshire 3 7 +New Jersey 6 12 +New York 61 9 +North Carolina 20 +Ohio 44 +Oregon 6 +Pennsylvania 28 30 +Rhode Island 6 2 +South Carolina 7 7 +Texas 15 1 +Tennessee 18 6 +Vermont 10 +Virginia 8 14 +West Virginia 4 6 +Wisconsin 4 16 +Arizona 2 +Colorado 6 +Dakota 2 +Idaho 2 +Montana 2 +New Mexico 2 +Utah 2 +District of Columbia 2 +Washington 2 +Wyoming 2 + +Totals 381 351 21 + +The nomination of Governor Hayes was received with indescribable +enthusiasm, with long-continued cheering, and every other demonstration +of joy and delight. + +Outside of Ohio the State that contributed most to this far-reaching +result was Michigan. From the fact that Mr. Bristow telegraphed to the +Kentucky delegation several hours before the crisis was reached to cast +their votes for Hayes, that State should share, after Michigan, the +honor of achieving the grand result. Indiana, North Carolina, and New +York followed close upon Kentucky, if it is possible to compare the +value of the aid each State brought. + +On motion of the Hon. Wm. P. Frye, of Maine, Rutherford B. Hayes was +declared the unanimous choice of the Republican National Convention for +President of the United States. + +This great convention concluded its labors by nominating the able and +incorruptible Wm. A. Wheeler, of New York, for vice-president by +acclamation. + +On the 17th of June, the day following the nomination, the committee +appointed by the convention to notify Governor Hayes of the fact +presented themselves in the executive office at Columbus. + +Mr. McPherson, the chairman, approaching him, said: + + "GOVERNOR HAYES: We have been deputed by the National convention of + the Republican party, holden at Cincinnati on the 14th of the + present month, to inform you officially that you have been + unanimously nominated by that convention for the office of + President of the United States. The manner in which that action was + taken, and the response to it from every portion of the country, + attest the strength of the popular confidence in you and the belief + that your administration will be wise, courageous, and just. We + say, sir, your administration, for we believe that the people will + confirm the action of the convention, and thus save the country + from the control of the men and the operations of the principles + and policy of the Democratic party. We have also been directed to + ask your attention to the summary of the Republican doctrine + contained in the platform adopted by the convention. In discharging + this agreeable duty we find cause of congratulation in the + harmonious action of the convention, and in the hearty response + given by the people we see the promise of assured success. Ohio, we + know, trusts and honors you. Henceforth you belong to the whole + country. Under circumstances so auspicious, we trust you will + indicate your acceptance of the nomination." + +The governor, who had had no intimation as to what the length or +character of the address would be, was left in doubt with respect to the +response expected from him by the committee. He, however, without +embarrassment, but in an intentionally subdued tone of voice, gave this +appropriately brief reply: + + "SIR: I have only to say in response to your information that I + accept the nomination. Perhaps at the present time it would be + improper for me to say more than this, although even now I should + be glad to give some expression to the profound sense of gratitude + I feel for the confidence reposed in me by yourselves and those for + whom you act. At a future time I shall take occasion to present my + acceptance in writing, with my views upon the platform." + +Since his nomination for the presidency, Governor Hayes has changed in +no perceptible respect the habits, recreations, or labors of his daily +life. He rises early and accomplishes much work before breakfast. He +labors in the executive office in the capitol from nine until five, +discharging his varied duties as governor, answering or dictating the +answers to be given his official, political, and private correspondence, +and remaining at all times accessible to visitors of every age, sex, +color, and condition, who seek to see him. His evenings are passed with +his family, or at the social parties of his many friends. He makes his +customary trips to his home and farms near Fremont, and, while +profitably managing large property interests, finds time to devote to +pioneer history, to domestic architecture, to gardening, to general +literature, to languages, and other liberal studies and pursuits. He is +sobered, but not overpowered or oppressed by the new responsibilities +cast upon him. He suffers himself to be--as he ever has been--natural. +Moderate, discreet, and wise in all things as he has been in the past +and is in the present, he is conspicuously one who grows wiser each day +that he lives. + +Governor Hayes has reached the age of fifty-four, is five feet nine +inches in height, and weighs one hundred and eighty pounds. Perfect +health and habits leave him just in the ripe maturity of physical +manhood and mind. His shoulders and breast are broad, his frame solid +and compact, his limbs muscular and strong. He has a fresh, ruddy +complexion, is full of activity and elasticity, and is very fond of the +amusements of young people. He has an exceptionally high and full +forehead, a prominent nose, and bluish-gray eyes. A heavy sandy mustache +and beard, which are silvered a little, conceal his mouth and chin. His +light-brown hair is thin and slightly sprinkled with gray. + +The Governor is the father of eight children, five of whom are now +living. Those still living were born as follows: Birchard Austin, +November 4, 1853; Webb Cook, March 20, 1856; Rutherford Platt, June 24, +1858; Fanny Hayes, September 2, 1867; Scott Russell, February 8, 1871. + +The youngest of these children was born in Columbus, the others in +Cincinnati. The oldest son graduated at Cornell University, in the class +of 1874, and is now at the Harvard Law School. The second son passed +three years at Cornell, and is now at home. The third son is at Cornell. + +Three weeks from the day that Governor Hayes was nominated for the +Presidency, his private secretary, Captain A. E. Lee, put upon the +telegraphic wires, at Columbus, the following accurate copy of: + + THE LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE. + + COLUMBUS, OHIO, _July 8, 1876._ + + Hon. Edward McPherson, Hon. Wm. A. Howard, Hon. Joseph H. Rainey, + and others, Committee of the Republican National Convention. + + GENTLEMEN: In reply to your official communication of June 17, by + which I am informed of my nomination for the office of President of + the United States by the Republican National Convention at + Cincinnati, I accept the nomination with gratitude, hoping that, + under Providence, I shall be able, if elected, to execute the + duties of the high office as a trust for the benefit of all the + people. + + I do not deem it necessary to enter upon any extended examination + of the declaration of principles made by the convention. The + resolutions are in accord with my views, and I heartily concur in + the principles they announce. In several of the resolutions, + however, questions are considered which are of such importance that + I deem it proper to briefly express my convictions in regard to + them. + + The fifth resolution adopted by the convention is of paramount + interest. More than forty years ago, a system of making + appointments to office grew up, based upon the maxim "To the + victors belong the spoils." The old rule, the true rule, that + honesty, capacity, and fidelity constitute the only real + qualifications for office, and that there is no other claim, gave + place to the idea that party services were to be chiefly + considered. All parties, in practice, have adopted this system. It + has been essentially modified since its first introduction. It has + not, however, been improved. + + At first the president, either directly or through the heads of + departments, made all the appointments. But gradually the + appointing power, in many cases, passed into the control of members + of Congress. The offices, in these cases, have become not merely + rewards for party services, but rewards for services to party + leaders. This system destroys the independence of the separate + departments of the government; it tends directly to extravagance + and official incapacity; it is a temptation to dishonesty; it + hinders and impairs that careful supervision and strict + accountability by which alone faithful and efficient public service + can be secured; it obstructs the prompt removal and sure punishment + of the unworthy. In every way it degrades the civil service and the + character of the government. It is felt, I am confident, by a large + majority of the members of Congress, to be an intolerable burden, + and an unwarrantable hindrance to the proper discharge of their + legitimate duties. It ought to be abolished. The reform should be + thorough, radical, and complete. + + We should return to the principles and practice of the founders of + the government, supplying by legislation, when needed, that which + was formerly established custom. They neither expected nor desired + from the public officer any partisan service. They meant that + public officers should owe their whole service to the government + and to the people. They meant that the officer should be secure in + his tenure as long as his personal character remained untarnished, + and the performance of his duties satisfactory. If elected, I shall + conduct the administration of the government upon these principles; + and all constitutional powers vested in the executive will be + employed to establish this reform. + + The declaration of principles by the Cincinnati Convention makes no + announcement in favor of a single presidential term. I do not + assume to add to that declaration; but, believing that the + restoration of the civil service to the system established by + Washington and followed by the early presidents can be best + accomplished by an executive who is under no temptation to use the + patronage of his office to promote his own re-election, I desire to + perform what I regard as a duty, in stating now my inflexible + purpose, if elected, not to be a candidate for election to a second + term. + + On the currency question, I have frequently expressed my views in + public, and I stand by my record on this subject. I regard all the + laws of the United States relating to the payment of the public + indebtedness, the legal tender notes included, as constituting a + pledge and moral obligation of the Government, which must in good + faith be kept. It is my conviction that the feeling of uncertainty + inseparable from an irredeemable paper currency, with its + fluctuations of values, is one of the great obstacles to a revival + of confidence and business, and to a return of prosperity. That + uncertainty can be ended in but one way--the resumption of specie + payments; but the longer the instability connected with our present + money system is permitted to continue, the greater will be the + injury inflicted upon our economical interests, and all classes of + society. + + If elected, I shall approve every appropriate measure to accomplish + the desired end, and shall oppose any step backward. + + The resolution with respect to the public school system is one + which should receive the hearty support of the American people. + Agitation upon this subject is to be apprehended, until, by + constitutional amendment, the schools are placed beyond all danger + of sectarian control or interference. The Republican party is + pledged to secure such an amendment. + + The resolution of the convention on the subject of the permanent + pacification of the country, and the complete protection of all its + citizens in the free enjoyment of all their constitutional rights, + is timely and of great importance. The condition of the Southern + States attracts the attention and commands the sympathy of the + people of the whole Union. In their progressive recovery from the + effects of the war, their first necessity is an intelligent and + honest administration of government, which will protect all classes + of citizens in all their political and private rights. What the + South most needs is peace, and peace depends upon the supremacy of + law. There can be no enduring peace if the constitutional rights of + any portion of the people are habitually disregarded. A division of + political parties, resting merely upon distinctions of race, or + upon sectional lines, is always unfortunate, and may be + disastrous. The welfare of the South, alike with that of every + other part of the country, depends upon the attractions it can + offer to labor, to immigration, and to capital. But laborers will + not go, and capital will not be ventured, where the constitution + and the laws are set at defiance, and distraction, apprehension, + and alarm, take the place of peace-loving and law-abiding social + life. All parts of the constitution are sacred, and must be + sacredly observed--the parts that are new no less than the parts + that are old. The moral and material prosperity of the Southern + States can be most effectively advanced by a hearty and generous + recognition of the rights of all by all--a recognition without + reserve or exception. + + With such a recognition fully accorded, it will be practicable to + promote, by the influence of all legitimate agencies of the general + government, the efforts of the people of those States to obtain for + themselves the blessings of honest and capable local government. + + If elected, I shall consider it not only my duty, but it will be my + ardent desire, to labor for the attainment of this end. + + Let me assure my countrymen of the Southern States that if I shall + be charged with the duty of organizing an Administration, it will + be one which will regard and cherish their truest interests--the + interests of the white and of the colored people both, and equally; + and which will put forth its best efforts in behalf of a civil + policy which will wipe out forever the distinction between North + and South in our common country. + + With a civil service organized upon a system which will secure + purity, experience, efficiency, and economy; with a strict regard + for the public welfare, solely, in appointments; with the speedy, + thorough, and unsparing prosecution and punishment of all public + officers who betray official trusts; with a sound currency; with + education unsectarian and free to all; with simplicity and + frugality in public and private affairs, and with a fraternal + spirit of harmony pervading the people of all sections and classes, + we may reasonably hope that the second century of our existence as + a Nation will, by the blessing of God, be pre-eminent as an era of + good feeling, and a period of progress, prosperity, and happiness. + + Very respectfully, + Your fellow-citizen, + R. B. HAYES. + +The non-partisan verdict upon this letter is that it is faultless in +style, sound in principle, courageous, broad and elevated in tone, +liberal, wise, statesmanlike, and strong. It is, in short, the +declaration of faith of an honest man who has a heart in his breast and +a head on his shoulders, with purity in that heart and brains in that +head. + +The conclusions which follow our study of the public career of +Rutherford Birchard Hayes, and the study of that interior life, the +beauty of which the world will not know until he has passed from it, are +briefly these. + +In boyhood, in battle, in the civic chair, in the esteem of his State, +in every duty and relation of life, he has been first, and now, it would +seem, is first in the hearts of his countrymen. As a student, he was +foremost; as a lawyer, he was in the front rank; as a soldier, he was +the bravest; as a legislator, the most judicious; as a governor, second +to none of Ohio's great magistrates. + +The most striking characteristic of Hayes as a soldier was his personal +intrepidity. Anthony Wayne, Francis Marion, and Ethan Allen were called +brave men in the Revolution, and so they were; but we look in vain in +their histories for as numerous proofs of unsurpassable daring as the +hero of Cloyd Mountain, Cedar Creek, and South Mountain, has given us. +Four horses shot under him; four wounds in action; fighting after he +fell; a hundred days exposed to death under fire--these are the +evidences of as lofty a courage as is yet known among men. + +As a regimental, brigade, and division commander, his most striking +quality as a leader was his impetuosity. General Crook used to say that +Hayes fought infantry as other men fought cavalry. He was always wanting +to move forward, to charge, to get at the enemy with cold steel. His +favorite step was the double-quick; his choice of distance two paces; +and his preferred mode of fighting, the hand-to-hand grapple. This meant +business, was decisive, and was soon over. + +Another characteristic was his constant care for the comfort of his +soldiers. He was much in the hospitals, cheering up the wounded, writing +letters for them, and sending last messages from the lips of the dying +to wives, mothers, and friends. He shared his blanket, his last crust, +his last penny, with the neediest of his men, and abstained from food +when they had none. + +His house is to-day, and has been since the war, a soldiers' home, where +all who served with him are invited to come at all times and partake at +his own table with his wife and children. Seldom is this generous +hospitality imposed on by the members of his large military family. +Once, only, a pseudo-soldier, whom the children called the "Veteran," +having served two days and a half in the army, remained just double the +term of his military service under the governor's roof. He doubtless +found that the rations at this camp were good. + +As a civil magistrate, Governor Hayes has developed executive and +administrative abilities of the highest order. He has a practical, +common-sense, direct way of doing things. He first finds what things +ought to be done, and then how. When his own party has been in a +minority, he has made friends with a few of the most reasonable men in +the opposition, and through them, as instruments, has accomplished his +purposes. + +He is a discriminating judge of human nature, and is magnetic enough to +make legislators follow his lead, as his soldiers followed him. + +He has fixed rules of official conduct to which he adheres in all cases. +For example, if he has a judge to appoint--and he has appointed many to +fill vacancies--his simple inquiry is, Whom do the members of the legal +profession want, who live in the judicial district to be provided for? +When that fact is accurately ascertained, the appointment follows as a +matter of course, even though the lawyer preferred may be his personal +enemy. In the interests of learning, higher education, human +benevolence, and equal rights, Hayes has accomplished more than any +governor Ohio has yet had. We make this statement with the honorable +records of old Jeremiah Morrow, Corwin, Chase, Tod, Brough, and Cox +spread before us. + +In a word, Governor Hayes is square-built, solid and sound, mentally, +morally, and physically. His integrity is a proverb; his fidelity to his +convictions is recognized by political enemies; his record is of +unassailable soundness; and there is absolutely nothing vulnerable in +his character. He has a Lincoln-like soundness of judgment, and is as +inexorably just as old John Marshall. He is a man absolutely free from +eccentricities and affectations; he neither walks nor talks on stilts. +His manners have the warmth and grace that sincerity and simplicity +give. In bearing, he is animated and thoughtful, manly and refined. His +firmness, while it does not amount to obstinacy, marks the clear-cut +individuality and decision of his character. He has the guiding faculty +and the power of containing himself. He takes a just measure both of +himself and of other men. If the country will do this, his future is as +secure as his past. If president, he would do the right thing at the +right time, in the right way. His election will give us, not a "solid +South" or a solid North, but a solid Union! + +Since experience has taught us how essential it is that the +representative of the women of America in the executive mansion should +worthily represent all that is best and most elevated in our social +life, a word in regard to the companion of Governor Hayes may not be out +of taste. If any public man in our history has been more fortunate and +happy in his home surroundings and family relations, we are not aware +who he may be. If the voice of the people should decree the +transplanting of the ideal home of this family from the capital of Ohio +to the capital of the Republic, the pure and elevating influences +radiating from such a home would pervade and purify the social life of +the National city, if not of the land. A severer simplicity would mark +the inner and the outer life of the president's household. Extravagance +in dress and living, wastefulness in vain displays and in ambitious +entertainments, would find no encouragement from the mistress of the +Nation's mansion. The lessons of truth and piety, of purity and virtue, +of charity and benevolence, of sincerity and self-forgetfulness, would +be taught by example. A whole people could here find in illustration the +sacredness of the family and the holiness of home. + +A union of rare accomplishments, social and domestic, with beauty of +features, manners, and character, may yet be found in a successor of +Mrs. Madison. + +A doctor of divinity and a doctor of laws, the president of the Ohio +Wesleyan University, bears this weighty testimony, in a public address, +to the correctness of what we have hereinbefore recorded: + + "It is in no spirit of partisanship, nor with the slightest + reference to merely political ends, but simply in illustration of + our subject that we add, already there are hopeful signs of + reformation in our National life. It is a sign of progress that the + suspicion of sullied purity is beginning to be fatal to a public + man. It is an omen of good when in a large and representative + convention, with the names of many distinguished men before it, one + is borne above them all on the tide of popular enthusiasm and with + ringing peals of applause is presented to the American people, + without effort of his own, as a candidate for the highest office in + the Nation, not only because of his eminent ability, but largely + because of the transparent purity of his character and his high, + manly, moral worth. + + "It is doubtless a cause of honest pride to the citizens of this + town, irrespective of political creeds and preferences, that the + man thus highly distinguished is a native of your classic city. By + reason of its youth this university can not claim him as a son, but + it regards with maternal pride his not less worthy companion, who, + after graduation at one of the best female colleges in the State, + indicated her rare good sense by passing through much of the + college curriculum of our university here. + + "If, by the decree of the people and the providence of God, this + worthy pair, honored graduates of Ohio's higher schools of + learning, shall be lifted to the highest position and power and + influence in the Nation, we have reason to believe that they will + illustrate the salutary influence of that cultured goodness of + which we have spoken, and that the National capital and the entire + National domain will enjoy a purer atmosphere." + + + + +APPENDIX. + + +_Speech of_ GENERAL R. B. HAYES, _delivered at Lebanon, Ohio, August 5, +1867._ + + _Fellow-Citizens:_ + + President Lincoln began his memorable address at the dedication of + the Gettysburg National Cemetery with these words: + + "Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this + continent a new Nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the + proposition that all men are created equal." + + This was Abraham Lincoln's opinion of what was accomplished and + what was meant by the Declaration of Independence. His idea was + that it gave birth to a Nation, and that it dedicated that Nation + to equal rights. + + Now, so far as the performance of duty in the present condition of + our country is concerned, "this is the whole law and the prophets." + The United States are not a confederacy of independent and + sovereign States, bound together by a mere treaty or a compact, but + the people of the United States constitute a Nation, having one + flag, one history, "one country, one constitution, one destiny." + Whoever seeks to divide this Nation into two sections--into a North + and a South, or into four sections, according to the cardinal + points of the compass, or into thirty or forty independent + sovereignties--is opposed to the Nation, and the Nation's friends + should be opposed to him. + + Washington, in his Farewell Address, says: + + "The unity of government, which constitutes you one people, is also + now dear to you. It is justly so; for it is a main pillar in the + edifice of your real independence, the support of your tranquillity + at home, your peace abroad; of your safety, of your prosperity, of + that very liberty which you so highly prize.... The name of + American, which belongs to you in your National capacity, must + always exalt the just pride of patriotism more than any appellation + derived from local discriminations. With slight shades of + difference, you have the same religion, manners, habits, and + political principles. You have, in a common cause, fought and + triumphed together; the independence and liberty you possess are + the work of joint counsels and joint efforts--of common dangers, + sufferings, and successes." + + The sentiment of Nationality is the sentiment of the Declaration of + Independence; it is the sentiment of the fathers; it is the + sentiment which carried us through the war of the Revolution, and + through the war of the late Rebellion; and it is a sentiment which + the people of the United States ought forever to cultivate and + cherish. + + The great idea to which the Nation, according to Mr. Lincoln, was + dedicated by the fathers is expressed in the Declaration in these + familiar phrases: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that + all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator + with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, + liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights + governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers + from the consent of the governed." + + An intelligent audience will not wish to hear discussion as to the + import of these sentences. Their language is simple, their meaning + plain, and their truth undoubted. The equality declared by the + fathers was not an equality of beauty, of physical strength, or of + intellect, but an equality of rights. Foolish attempts have been + made by those who hate the principles of the fathers to destroy the + great fundamental truth of the Declaration, by limiting the + application of the phrase "all men" to the men of a single race. + + But Jefferson's original draft of the Declaration leaves no room to + doubt what he meant by these words. The gravest charge he made + against the King of Great Britain in the original draft of the + Declaration of Independence was the following: + + "He has waged cruel war against human nature itself, violating its + most sacred rights of life and liberty in the persons of a distant + people, who never offended him, capturing and carrying them into + slavery in another hemisphere, or to incur miserable death in their + transportation thither. This piratical warfare, the opprobrium of + infidel powers, is the warfare of the Christian King of Great + Britain, determined to keep open market where MEN should be bought + and sold." + + In this sentence the word "men" is written by Jefferson in capital + letters, showing with what emphasis he wished to declare that the + King of Great Britain was making slaves of a people to whom + belonged the rights of men. + + Unfortunately for our country, that King, and others who "waged + cruel war against human nature itself," had already succeeded in + planting in the bosom of American society an element implacably + hostile to human rights, and destined to become the enemy of the + Union, whenever the American people, in their National capacity, + should refuse assent to any measures which the holders of slaves + should deem necessary or even important for the security or + prosperity of their "peculiar institution." + + I need not, upon this occasion, repeat what is now familiar + history--how, by the invention of the cotton-gin, and the + consequent enormous increase of the cotton crop, slave labor in the + cotton States, and slave breeding in the Northern slave States, + became so profitable that the slaveholders were able, for many + years, largely to influence, if not control, every department of + the National Government. The slave power became something more than + a phrase--it was a definite, established, appalling fact. The + Missouri controversy, South Carolina nullification, the Texas + controversy, the adoption of the compromise measures of 1850, and + the repeal of the Missouri compromise in 1854, were all occasions + when the country was compelled to see the magnitude, the energy, + the recklessness, and the arrogance of the slave power. + + Precisely when the men who wielded that power determined to destroy + the Union it is not now necessary to inquire. Threats of disunion + were made in the first Congress that assembled under the + constitution. Upon various pretexts they were repeated from time to + time, and no one doubts that slavery was at the bottom of them. In + 1833 General Jackson wrote to Rev. A. J. Crawford: "Take care of + your nullifiers; you have them among you; let them meet with the + indignant frown of every man who loves his country. The tariff, it + is now known, was a mere pretext ... and disunion and a Southern + Confederacy the real object. The next pretext will be the negro or + slavery question." General Jackson was no doubt right as to the + existence of a settled purpose to break up the Union, and to + establish a Southern Confederacy, as long ago as 1832. But why was + there such a purpose? On what ground did it stand? + + Great political parties, whether sectional or otherwise, do not + come by accident, nor are they the invention of political intrigue. + A faction born of a clique may have some strength at one or two + elections, but the wisest political wire-workers can not, by merely + "taking thought," create a strong and permanent party. The result + of the Philadelphia Convention last summer probably taught this + truth to the authors of that movement. Great political movements + always have some adequate cause. + + Now, on what did the conspirators who plotted the destruction of + the Union and the establishment of a Southern Confederacy rely? In + the first place, they taught a false construction of the National + constitution, which was miscalled State rights, the essential part + of which was that "any State of the Union might secede from the + Union whenever it liked." This doctrine was the instrument employed + to destroy the unity of the Nation. The fact which gave strength + and energy to those who employed this instrument was that in the + southern half of the Union, society, business, property, religion, + and law were all based on the proposition that over four millions + of our countrymen, capable of civilization and religion, were, + because of their race and color, "so far inferior that they had no + rights which the white man was bound to respect." The practice, + founded upon this denial of the Declaration of Independence, + protected by law and sanctioned by usage, was our great National + transgression, and was the cause of our great National calamity. + + In a country where discussion was free, sooner or later, parties + were sure to be formed on the issues presented by the slaveholders. + The supporters of the Union and of human rights would band together + against the supporters of disunion and slavery. For many years + after the struggle really began, the issues were not clearly + defined, and neither party was able to occupy its true and final + position, or to rally to its standard all who were in fact its + friends. Old parties encumbered the ground. Men were slow to give + up old associations and leave the discussion of obsolete, + immaterial, or ephemeral issues. + + At last the crisis came. In 1860, Mr. Lincoln, who was unfriendly + to slavery and faithful to the Union, was elected president. The + party of disunion and slavery were prepared for this event. Their + action was prompt, decisive, and defiant. They proceeded to + organize southern conventions, and formally to withdraw from the + Union, and undertook to establish a new government and a new Nation + on the soil of the United States. + + Prior to 1860 the party calling itself Democratic had gathered + under one name and one organization almost the whole of the + secessionists of the South and a large body of the people of the + North, many of whom had no sympathy either with secession or + slavery. In 1860 the secessionists were so arrogant in their + demands that the great body of the Democratic party in the North + refused to yield to them, and supported Mr. Douglass in opposition + both to Mr. Lincoln, and to the disunion and slavery candidate, Mr. + Breckenridge. But it was well known that many leading Democrats who + supported Mr. Douglass leaned strongly toward the southern Calhoun + democracy, and that their sympathies were with slave-holding or at + least with slaveholders. + + The evidence of this is abundantly furnished in their recorded + opinions. The most distinguished and perhaps the most influential + Democrat now actively engaged in politics in Ohio, who presided + over and addressed the last Democratic State Convention held at + Columbus, Mr. Pendleton, delivered a speech in the House of + Representatives on the 18th of January, 1861. + + You will recollect how far the slaveholders had progressed in their + great rebellion at that date. Mr. Pendleton himself says: + + "To-day, sir, four States of this Union have, so far as their power + extends, seceded from it. Four States, as far as they are able, + have annulled the grants of power made to the Federal Government; + they have resumed the powers delegated by the Constitution; they + have canceled, so far as they could, every limitation upon the full + exercise of all their sovereign rights. They do not claim our + protection; they ask no benefit from our laws; they seek none of + the advantages of the confederation. On the other hand, they + renounce their allegiance; they repudiate our authority over them, + and they assert that they have assumed--some of them that they have + resumed--their position among the family of sovereignties, among + the nations of the earth.... To-day, even while I am speaking, + Georgia is voting upon this very question. And unless the signs of + the times very much deceive us, within three weeks other States + will be added to the number." + + Mr. Pendleton might also have said that prior to that date, forts, + arsenals, dock-yards, mints, and other places and property + belonging to the United States, had been seized by organized and + armed bodies of rebels; the collection of debts due in the South to + Northern creditors had been stopped; South Carolina had declared + that any attempt to reinforce Fort Sumter by the United States + would be regarded by that State as an act of hostility against her + and equivalent to a declaration of war; the Star of the West, an + unarmed vessel, with the American flag floating at her mast-head, + carrying provisions to the famishing garrison of Fort Sumter, had + been fired on and driven from Charleston harbor; in short, at that + date the rebels were engaged in actual war against the Nation, and + the only reason why blood had not been shed was that the National + government had failed in its duty to defend the Nation's property, + and to maintain the sacredness of the National flag. + + At that crisis Mr. Pendleton delivered and sent forth a speech + bearing this significant motto: "But, sir, armies, money, blood, + can not maintain this Union--justice, reason, peace, may." The + speech was according to its motto. Accustomed as he is to speak + cautiously, and in a scholarly and moderate way, we can not be + mistaken as to his drift. On the authority of the National + government he says: + + "Now, sir, what force of arms can compel a State to do that which + she has agreed to do? What force of arms can compel a State to + refrain from doing that which her State government, supported by + the sentiment of her people, is determined to persist in doing.... + Sir, the whole scheme of coercion is impracticable. It is contrary + to the genius and spirit of the Constitution." + + These extracts sufficiently and fairly show Mr. Pendleton's notion + of the duty and authority of the Nation in that great crisis. He + held the States rights doctrines of Calhoun and Breckenridge, and + not the National principles of Washington and Jackson. + + As to the treatment of rebels already in arms, and as to the + "demands" of the slave power, consider this advice which he gave to + Congress and the people: + + "If these Southern States can not be conciliated; if you, + gentlemen, can not find it in your hearts to grant their demands; + if they must leave the family mansion, I would signalize their + departure by tokens of love; I would bid them farewell so tenderly + that they would be forever touched by the recollection of it; and + if in the vicissitudes of their separate existence they should + desire to come together with us again in one common government, + there should be no pride to be humiliated, there should be no wound + inflicted by my hand to be healed. They should come and be welcome + to the places they now occupy." + + Thus we see there were those who, with honeyed phrases and soft + words, would have looked smilingly on, while the great + Republic--the pride of her children, the hope of the ages--built by + the fathers at such an expense of suffering, of treasure, and of + blood, was stricken by traitors' hands from the roll of living + Nations, and while an armed oligarchy should establish in its stead + a nation founded on a denial of human rights, and under whose sway + south of the Potomac more than half of the territory of the old + Thirteen Colonies--soil once fertilized by the best blood of the + Revolution--should, for generations to come, continue to be tilled + by the unrequited toil of slaves. + + The best known, the boldest, and perhaps the ablest leader of the + peace Democracy in the North is Mr. Vallandigham. He was chairman + of the committee on resolutions in the last Democratic State + Convention in Ohio, and reported the present State platform of his + party. He, probably, still enjoys in a greater degree than any + other public man the affection and confidence of the positive men + of the Ohio Democracy, who, from beginning to end, opposed the war. + On the 20th of February, 1861, he delivered a speech in the House + of Representatives in support of certain amendments which he + proposed to the Constitution of the United States. In an appendix + to that speech, he published an extract from a card in the + Cincinnati _Enquirer_ of November 10, 1860, from which I quote: + + "And now let me add that I did say, ... in a public speech at the + Cooper Institute, on the 2d of November, 1860, that if any one or + more of the States of this Union should at any time secede, for + reasons of the sufficiency and justice of which, before God and the + great tribunal of history, they alone may judge, much as I should + deplore it, I never would, as a representative in Congress of the + United States, vote one dollar of money whereby one drop of + American blood should be shed in a civil war.... And I now + deliberately repeat and reaffirm it, resolved, though I stand + alone, though all others yield and fall away, to make it good to + the last moment of my public life." Here was another strong man of + large influence solemnly pledged to allow the Union to be broken up + and destroyed, in case the rebel conspirators chose that + alternative, rather than forgo their demands in favor of oppression + and against human rights. + + On the 23d of January, 1861, the Democratic party held a State + Convention at Columbus. Remember, at that date the air was thick + with threats of war from the South. The rebels were organizing and + drilling; arms robbed from the National arsenals were in their + hands; and the question upon all minds was whether the Republic + should perish without having a single blow struck in her defense, + or whether the people of the loyal North should rise as one man, + prepared to wage war until treason and, if need be, slavery went + down together. On this question, that convention was bound to + speak. Silence was impossible. There were present war Democrats and + peace Democrats, followers of Jackson, and followers of Calhoun. + There was a determined and gallant struggle on the part of the war + Democrats, but the superior numbers, or more probably the superior + tactics and strategy, of the peace men triumphed. + + The present candidate of the Democratic party for Governor of Ohio, + Judge Thurman, a gentleman of character and ability, a + distinguished lawyer and judge and a politician of long experience, + succeeded in passing through the convention this resolution: + + "_Resolved_, That the two hundred thousand Democrats of Ohio send + to the people of the United States, both North and South, greeting; + and when the people of the North shall have fulfilled their duties + to the constitution and to the South, then, and not until then, + will it be proper for them to take into consideration the question + of the right and propriety of coercion." + + In support of this famous resolution, Judge Thurman addressed the + convention, and, among other things, is reported to have said: + + "A man is deficient in understanding who thinks the cause of + disunion is that the South apprehended any overt act of oppression + in Lincoln's administration. It is the spirit of the late + presidential contest that alarms the South.... It would try the + ethics of any man to deny that some of the Southern States have no + cause for revolution.... Then you must be sure you are able to + coerce before you begin the work. The South are a brave people. The + Southern States can not be held by force. The blacks won't fight + for the invaders.... The Hungarians had less cause of complaint + against Austria than the South had against the North." + + When we reflect on what the rebels had done and what they were + doing when this resolution was passed, it seems incredible that + sane men, having a spark of patriotism, could for one moment have + tolerated its sentiments. The rebels had already deprived the + United States of its jurisdiction and property in about one-fourth + of its inhabited territory, and were rapidly extending their + insurrection so as to include within the rebel lines all of the + slave States. The lives and property of Union citizens in the + insurgent States were at the mercy of traitors, and the National + flag was everywhere torn down, and shameful indignities and + outrages heaped upon all who honored it. + + This resolution speaks of fulfilling the duties of the people of + the North to the South. The first and highest duty of the people of + the North to themselves, to the South, to their country, and to + God, was to crush the rebellion. All speeches and resolutions + against either the right or the propriety of coercion merely gave + encouragement, "moral aid and comfort," more important than powder + and ball, to the enemies of the Nation. + + Do I state too strongly the mischievous, the fatal tendency of + these proceedings? The resolution adopted by the peace Democracy of + Ohio is addressed in terms "to the people of all the States, North + and South," and in fact was sent, I am informed, to the governors + of all the States. + + In the South, Union men were laboring by every means in their power + to prevent secession. Their most cogent argument was that the + National government would defend itself by war against rebellion. + To this, the rebel reply was, "There will be no war. Secession will + be peaceable. The peace party of the North will prevent coercion. + If there is fighting, it will be as Ex-President Pierce writes to + Jefferson Davis, 'The fighting will not be along Mason and Dixon's + line merely. It will be within our own borders, in our own + streets.'" + + For the evidence of the correctness of this opinion, the rebels + could point confidently to such speeches and resolutions as those + we are now considering. Governor Orr, of South Carolina, in a + recent speech at the Charleston Board of Trade banquet, is reported + to have said: + + "I know there is an apprehension widespread in the North and West + that, after the reconstruction of the Southern States, we shall + fall into the arms of our old allies and associates, the old + Democratic party. I say to you, gentlemen, however, that I would + give no such pledges. We have accounts to settle with that party, + gentlemen, before I, at least, will consent to affiliate with it. + Many of you will remember that, when the war first commenced, great + hopes and expectations were held out by our friends in the North + and West that there would be no war, and that if it commenced, it + would be North of Mason and Dixon's line, and not in the South." + + Without pausing to inquire how much strength accrued to the + rebellion in its earlier stages by the encouragement it received + from sympathizers in the North, let us pass on to the spring and + summer of 1861, after the bombardment and surrender of Fort Sumter, + and when the armies of the Union and of the rebellion were facing + each other upon a line of operations extending from the Potomac to + the Rio Grande. The most superficial observer could not fail to + discover these facts. + + In the South, where slavery was strongest, the rebellion was + strongest. Where there were few slaveholders, there were few + rebels. South Carolina and Mississippi, having the largest number + of slaves in proportion to population, were almost unanimous for + rebellion. Western Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, East Tennessee, had + few slaves, and love of the Union and hatred of secession in those + mountain regions was nearly universal. + + The counterpart of this was found everywhere in the North. In + counties and districts where the majority of the people had been + accustomed to defend or excuse the practice of slave-holding and + the aggressions of the slaveholders, there was much sympathy with + the rebellion and strong opposition to the war. Men who abused and + hated negroes did not usually hate rebels. On the other hand, + anti-slavery counties and districts were quite sure to be Union to + the core. + + In Ohio, as in other free States, the Democratic party could not be + led off in a body after the peace Democracy. Brough, Tod, Matthews, + Dorsey, Steedman, and a host of Democrats of the Jackson school, + nobly kept the faith. Lytle, McCook, Webster, and gallant spirits + like them, from every county and neighborhood of our State, sealed + their devotion to the Union and to true Democracy with their life's + blood. + + They believed, with Douglass, in the last letter he ever wrote, + that "it was not a party question, nor a question involving + partisan policy; it was a question of government or no government, + country or no country, and hence it became the imperative duty of + every Union man, every friend of constitutional liberty, to rally + to the support of our common country, its government and flag, as + the only means of checking the progress of revolution, and of + preserving the Union of the States." + + They believed the words of Douglass' last speech: "This is no time + for a detail of causes. The conspiracy is now known. Armies have + been raised, war is levied to accomplish it. There are only two + sides to the question. Every man must be for the United States or + against it. There can be no neutrals in this war--only patriots and + traitors." + + As the war progressed, the great political parties of the country + underwent important changes, both of organization and policy. In + the North, the Republican party, the great body of the American or + Union party of 1860, and the war Democracy formed the Union party. + The Democracy of the South, for the most part, became rebels, and + in the North those who did not unite with the Union party generally + passed under the control and leadership of the peace Democracy. + + At the beginning of the war, the creed of the Union party consisted + of one idea--it labored for one object--the restoration of the + Union. Slavery, the rights of man, the principles of the + Declaration of Independence, were for the time lost sight of in the + struggle for the Nation's life. As late as August, 1862, President + Lincoln wrote to Mr. Greeley: "My paramount object is to save the + Union, and not either to save or to destroy slavery. If I could + save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do it; and if I + could save it by freeing all the slaves, I would do it; and if I + could do it by freeing some and leaving others alone, I would also + do that." + + Slowly, gradually, after repeated disasters and disappointments, + the eyes of the Union leaders were opened to the fact that slavery + and rebellion were convertible terms; that the Confederacy, + according to its Vice-President, Alexander H. Stephens, was founded + upon "exactly the opposite idea" from that of Jefferson and the + fathers. "Its foundations," said he, "are laid, its corner-stone + rests upon the great truth that the negro is not equal to the white + man; that slavery, subordination to the superior race, is his + natural and normal condition." Mr. Lincoln and the Union party, + struggling faithfully onward, finally reached the solid ground that + the American government was founded on the broad principles of + right, justice, and humanity, and that, for this Nation, "Union and + liberty" were indeed "one and inseparable." + + The leaders of the peace Democracy were for a time overwhelmed by + the popular uprising which followed the attack on Fort Sumter, and + were not able during the year 1861 or the early part of 1862 to + mark out definitely the course to be pursued. But, like the Union + party, they gradually approached the position they were ultimately + to occupy. + + Their success in the autumn elections of 1862 encouraged them to + enter upon the pathway in which they have plodded along + consistently if not prosperously ever since. Opposition to the war + measures of Mr. Lincoln's administration, and in particular to + every measure tending to the enfranchisement and elevation of the + African race, became their settled policy. By this policy they were + placed in harmony with their former associates, the rebels of the + South. The rebels were fighting to destroy the Union. The peace + party were opposing the only measures which could save it. The + rebels were fighting for slavery. The peace party were laboring in + their way to keep alive and inflame the prejudice against race and + color, on which slavery was based. + + The abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia, the repeal of + the fugitive slave law, Mr. Lincoln's proclamation of emancipation, + in a word, every step of the Union party toward enfranchisement of + the colored people, the peace Democracy opposed. Every war measure, + every means adopted to strengthen the cause of the Union and weaken + the rebellion, met with the the same opposition. Whatever Mr. + Lincoln or Congress did to get money, to get men, or to obtain the + moral support of the country and the world--tax laws, tariff laws, + greenbacks, government bonds, army bills, drafts, blockades, + proclamations--met the indiscriminate and bitter assaults of these + men. The enlistment of colored soldiers, a measure by which between + one and two hundred thousand able-bodied men were transferred from + the service of the rebels in corn-fields to the Union service in + battle-fields--how Mr. Lincoln and the Union party were vilified + for that wise and necessary measure! But worse, infinitely worse, + than mere opposition to war measures, were their efforts to impair + the confidence of the people, to diminish the moral power of the + government, to give hope and earnestness to the enemies of the + Union, by showing that the administration was to blame for the war, + that it was unnecessary, unjust, and that it had been perverted + from its original object, and that it could not but fail. + + I need not go beyond the record of leaders of the Ohio Democracy of + to-day for proof what I am saying. Mr. Pendleton, usually so + gentlemanly and prudent in speech, lost his balance after the + victories of the peace Democracy in 1862. At the Democratic jubilee + in Butler county over the elections, Mr. Pendleton is reported as + saying: + + "I came up to see if there were any Butternuts in Butler county. I + came to see if there were any Copperheads in Butler county, as my + friends of the Cincinnati _Gazette_ and _Commercial_ are fond of + terming the Democracy of the country. I came up to tell you that + there are a good many of that stripe of animals in old Hamilton. I + have traveled about the country lately, and I assure you there is a + large crop of Butternuts everywhere: not only that, but the quality + and character of the nut is quite as good as the quantity." + + Of course, Mr. Pendleton was applauded by his audience; and he + returned to his place in the House of Representatives at Washington + prepared to give expression to his views with the same plainness + and boldness which marked the utterances of his colleague, Mr. + Vallandigham. + + On the 31st of January, 1863, he made an elaborate speech against + the enlistment of negroes into the service of the United States, in + which he said: + + "I should be false to you, my fellow-representatives, if I did not + tell you that there is an impression, growing with great rapidity, + upon the minds of the people of the Northwest that they have been + deliberately deceived into this war--that their patriotism and + their love of country have been engaged to call them into the army, + under the pretense that the war was to be for the Union and the + Constitution, when, in fact, it was to be an armed crusade for the + abolition of slavery. I tell you, sir, that unless this impression + is speedily arrested it will become universal; it will ripen into + conviction, and then it will be beyond your power to get from their + broad plains another man, or from their almost exhausted coffers + another dollar." + + In the same speech he says: + + "I said two years ago, on this floor, that armies, money, war can + not restore this Union; justice, reason, peace, may. I believed it + then; I have believed it at every moment since; I believe it now. + No event of the past two years has for a moment shaken my faith. + Peace is the first step to Union. Peace is Union. Peace unbroken + would have preserved it; peace restored will, I hope, in some time + reconstruct it. The only bonds which can hold these States in + confederation, the only ties which can make us one people, are the + soft and silken cords of affection and interest. These are woven in + peace, not war; in conciliation, not coercion; in deeds of kindness + and acts of friendly sympathy, not in deeds of violence and blood. + The people of the Northwest were carried away by the excitement of + April and May. They believed war would restore the Union. They + trusted to the assurances of the president and his cabinet, and of + Congress, that it should be carried on for that purpose alone. They + trusted that it would be carried on under the Constitution. They + were patriotic and confiding. They sent their sons, and brothers, + and husbands to the army, and poured out their treasures at the + feet of the administration. They feel that the war has been + perverted from this end; that the Constitution has been + disregarded; that abolition and arbitrary power, not Union and + constitutional liberty, are the governing ideas of the + administration. They are in no temper to be trifled with. They + think they have been deceived. There is danger of revolution. They + are longing for peace." + + Need I pause to inquire who would receive encouragement, or whose + spirits would be depressed, on reading these remarkable sentences? + Imagine them read by the rebel camp-fires, or at the fire-sides of + the rebel people. What hope, what exultation we should behold in + the faces of those who heard them! On the other hand, at Union + camp-fires, or by the loyal fire-sides of the North, what sorrow, + what mortification, what depression such statements would surely + carry wherever they were heard and believed! + + The course of the peace Democracy of Ohio during the memorable + contest of 1863, between Brough and Vallandigham, is too well known + to require attention now. Judge Thurman was one of the committee + who constructed the platform of the convention which nominated Mr. + Vallandigham, and was the ablest member of the State Central + Committee which had charge of the canvass in his behalf during his + exile. + + The key-note to that canvass was given by Mr. Vallandigham himself + in a letter written from Canada, July 15, 1863. That letter + contained the following: + + "If this civil war is to terminate only by the subjugation or + submission of the South to force and arms, the infant of to-day + will not live to see the end of it. No, in another way only can it + be brought to a close. Traveling a thousand miles and more, through + nearly half of the Confederate States, and sojourning for a time at + widely different points, I met not one man, woman, or child, who + was not resolved to perish rather than yield to the pressure of + arms, even in the most desperate extremity. And whatever may and + must be the varying fortune of the war, in all which I recognize + the hand of Providence pointing visibly to the ultimate issue of + this great trial of the States and people of America, they are + better prepared now every way to make good their inexorable purpose + than at any period since the beginning of the struggle. These may + be unwelcome truths; but they are addressed only to candid and + honest men." + + The assumption of the certain success of the rebellion, and that + the war for the Union would assuredly fail, was the strong point of + these gentlemen in favor of the election of Vallandigham and the + defeat of Brough. Fortunately, the patriotic people saw the + situation from another standpoint, and under the influence of + different feelings and different sympathies. + + In the elections of 1863, the peace Democracy of Ohio and other + States sustained defeats which have no parallel in our political + history. But, notwithstanding their reverses, the year 1864, the + year of the presidential election, found the Ohio leaders possibly + sadder, but certainly not wiser nor more patriotic than before. + + At the National Convention at Chicago, in August, Mr. Pendleton was + nominated for vice-president, Judge Thurman was a delegate of the + State of Ohio at large, and Mr. Vallandigham as a district + delegate, and as a member of the committee on platform, was the + author of the following resolution adopted by the convention: + + "_Resolved_, That this convention does explicitly declare, as the + sense of the American people, that, after four years of failure to + restore the Union by the experiment of war, during which, under + pretense of military necessity, or war power higher than the + constitution, the constitution has been disregarded in every part, + and public liberty and private rights have been alike trodden down, + and the material prosperity of the country essentially impaired, + justice, humanity, liberty, and the public welfare demand that + immediate efforts be made for a cessation of hostilities, with a + view to an ultimate convention of all the States, or other + peaceable means, to the end that at the earliest practicable moment + peace may be restored on the basis of the Federal Union of the + States." + + This resolution does not seem to require explanation or comment. + But as General McClellan's letter accepting the nomination for + president did not square well with this part of the party platform, + Mr. Vallandigham, in a speech at Sidney, Ohio, September 24, 1864, + explained it at some length. In that speech, he said: + + "I am speaking now of the fact that this convention pronounced this + war a failure, and giving you the reasons why it is a failure.... + What has been gained by this campaign? More lives have been lost, + more hard fighting has been done, more courage has been exhibited + by the Federal as well as the Southern soldiers than in any former + campaign, and what has been accomplished? General Grant is nearer + to Richmond, occupying a territory of perhaps eleven miles, which + was not in the possession of the United States when the campaign + began, from City Point to the suburbs of Petersburg. To secure that + he gave up all the country from Manassas down to Richmond and a + large part of the valley.... How about the Southern campaign? + General Sherman, through the courage of the best disciplined, best + organized, and most powerful army that has been seen since the + campaigns of the first Napoleon, has taken Atlanta--a town somewhat + larger than Sidney. It has cost him sixty thousand men and four or + five months of the most terrible campaign ever waged on this + continent or any other, or any other part of the globe. He occupies + from two to five miles on each side of a railroad of one hundred + and thirty-eight miles in length. He has penetrated that far into + Georgia. What has been surrendered to obtain that? All of Texas, + nearly all of Louisiana, nearly all of Arkansas, Mississippi, + Alabama, and a part of Tennessee, which were in possession of the + Federals on the first of May. Kentucky has been opened to continual + incursions of the Confederate armies. All this has been surrendered + in order to gain this barren strip of country on the line of the + railroad. The war, then, has been properly pronounced a failure in + a military point of view. The convention meant that it has failed + to restore the Union, and there is not a Republican in the land who + does not know it." + + In the Sidney speech, Mr. Vallandigham says, also: + + "What will you have now? Four years more of war? What guaranties of + success have you? Do you want two million more of men to go forth + to this war as the Crusaders went to the sepulcher at Jerusalem? + The beginning of this administration found us with very little + debt, comparatively no taxation, and peace and happiness among the + States; and now look at the scene! Four more years of war, do you + tell me, when the first four, with every advantage, has failed? + Now, too, that the hearts of one-half of the people are turned away + from war, and intent upon the arts of peace? What will be the + consequence? Four thousand millions more of debt, five hundred + millions more of taxation, more conscriptions, more calls for five + hundred thousand men, more sacrifices for the next four years. All + this is what Abraham Lincoln demands of you in order that the South + may be compelled not to return to the Union, but to abandon + slavery." + + All this logic, this eloquence, this taxing the imagination to + portray the horrors of war, failed to deceive the people; Lincoln + was re-elected; the war went on, and a few short months witnessed + the end of the armed rebellion, and the triumph of liberty and of + Union. + + Now came the work of reconstruction. The leaders of the Peace + Democracy, who had failed in every measure, in every plan, in every + opinion, and in every prediction relating to the war, were promptly + on hand, and with unblushing cheek were prepared to take exclusive + charge of the whole business of reorganization and reconstruction. + They had a plan all prepared--a plan easily understood, easily + executed, and which they averred would be satisfactory to all + parties. Their plan was in perfect harmony with the conduct and + history of its authors and friends during the war. They had been in + very close sympathy with the men engaged in the rebellion, while + their sympathy for loyal white people at the South was not strong, + and they were bitterly hostile to loyal colored people both North + and South. Their plan was consistent with all this. + + According to it, the rebels were to be treated in the same manner + as if they had remained loyal. All laws, State and National, all + orders and regulations of the military, naval, and other + departments of the government, creating disabilities on account of + participation in the rebellion, were to be repealed, revoked, or + abolished. The rebellious States were to be represented in Congress + by the rebels without hindrance from any test oath. All + appointments in the army, in the navy, and in the civil service, + were to be made from men who were rebels, on the same terms as from + men who were loyal. The people and governments in the rebellious + States were to be subjected to no other interference or control + from the military or other departments of the general government + than exists in the States which remained loyal. Loyal white men and + loyal colored men were to be protected alone in those States by + State laws, executed by State authorities, as if they were in the + loyal States. + + There were to be no amendments to the constitution, not even an + amendment abolishing slavery. In short, the great rebellion was to + be ignored or forgotten, or, in the words of one of their orators, + "to be generously forgiven." The war, whose burdens, cost, and + carnage they had been so fond of exaggerating, suddenly sank into + what the Rev. Petroleum V. Nasby calls "the late unpleasantness," + for which nobody but the abolitionists were to blame. Under this + plan the States could soon re-establish slavery where it had been + disturbed by the war. Jefferson Davis, Toombs, Slidell, and Mason + could be re-elected to their old places in the Senate of the United + States; Lee could be re-appointed in the army, and Semmes and Maury + could be restored to the navy. Of course this plan of the Peace + Democracy was acceptable to the rebels of the South. + + But the loyal people, who under the name of the Union party fought + successfully through the war of the rebellion, objected to this + plan as wrong in principle, wrong in its details, and fatally wrong + as an example for the future. It treats treason as no crime and + loyalty as no virtue; it contains no guarantees, irreversible or + otherwise, against another rebellion by the same parties and on the + same grounds. It restores to political honor and power in the + government of the Nation men who have spent the best part of their + lives in plotting the overthrow of that government, and who for + more than four years levied public war against the United States; + it allows Union men in the South, who have risked all--and many of + whom have lost all but life in upholding the Union cause--to be + excluded from every office, State and National, and in many + instances to be banished from the States they so faithfully + laboured to save; it abandons the four millions of colored people + to such treatment as the ruffian class of the South, educated in + the barbarism of slavery and the atrocities of the rebellion, may + choose to give them; it leaves the obligations of the Nation to her + creditors and to the maimed soldiers and to the widows and orphans + of the war, to be fulfilled by men who hate the cause in which + those obligations were incurred; it claims to be a plan which + restores the Union without requiring conditions; but, in conceding + to the conquered rebels the repeal of laws important to the + Nation's welfare, it grants conditions which they demand, while it + denies to the loyal victors conditions which they deem of priceless + value. + + In the meantime, President Johnson having declared that "the + rebellion, in its revolutionary progress, had deprived the people + of the rebel States of all civil government," proceeded by military + power to set up provisional State governments in those States, and + to require them to declare void all ordinances of secession, to + repudiate the rebel debt, and to adopt the thirteenth amendment of + the constitution, proposed by the Union party, abolishing slavery + throughout the United States. The Peace Democracy opposed all + conditions, and, instinctively unsound upon human rights, opposed + the amendment abolishing slavery. The elections of 1865 settled + that question against them, and deprived them of New Jersey, the + last free State which adhered to their fallen fortunes. + + At the session of Congress of 1865-66, the president, finding that + his co-called State governments in the rebel States--created by + military power alone and without the sanction of the legislative + power of the government--had accepted his conditions; insisted that + those States were fully restored to their former proper relations + with the general government, and that they were again entitled to + representation in the same manner with the loyal States. This plan + accorded with the wishes of all unrepentant rebels, and as a matter + of course received the support of their allies of the Peace + Democracy. + + The Union party, at the sacrifice of all of the power and patronage + of the administration they had elected, firmly opposed and finally + defeated this project. They required, before the complete + restoration of the rebel States, that the fourteenth amendment of + the constitution should be adopted, which was framed to secure + civil rights to the colored people, equal representation between + the free States and the former slave States, the disqualification + for office of leading rebels, the payment of the loyal obligations + to creditors, to maimed soldiers, and to widows and orphans, and + the repudiation of the rebel debt, and of claims to payment for + slaves. On the adoption of this amendment turned the elections of + 1866. After the amplest debates before the people the Union party + carried the country in favor of the amendment, electing more than + three-fourths of the members of the House of Representatives. They + also secured the adoption of the amendment in twenty-one out of the + twenty-four States now represented, which have acted upon it by an + average vote in the State legislature of more than four to one. + + In striking contrast with this was the action of the rebel States. + Tennessee alone ratified the amendment. The other ten promptly and + defiantly rejected it by an average majority in their State + legislatures of more than fifty to one. When, therefore, the + Thirty-ninth Congress met in the session of 1866-67 they found the + work of reconstruction in those ten States still unaccomplished. + + Now, in what condition were those ten rebel States? In the first + place all political power in those States was in the hands of + rebels, and for the most part of leading and unrepentant rebels. + Their governors, their members of legislature, their judges, their + county and city officers, and their members of Congress, with rare + exceptions, were rebels. Such was their political condition. + + What was their condition with respect to the preservation of order, + the suppression of crime, and the redress of private grievances? + After the suppression of the rebellion the next plain duty of the + National government was to see that the lives, liberty, and + property of all classes of citizens were secure, and especially to + see that the loyal white and colored citizens who resided or might + sojourn in those States did not suffer injustice, oppression, or + outrage because of their loyalty. Loyal men, without distinction of + race or color, were clearly entitled to the full measure of + protection usually found in civilized countries, if in the nature + of things it was possible for the Nation to furnish it. + + Inquiring as to the condition of things in the South, I waive the + uniform current of information derived from the press and other + unofficial sources from all parts of the South, and rely + exclusively on the official reports of army officers like Grant, + Thomas, Sheridan, and Howard--officers of clear heads, of strong + sense, and of spotless integrity, whose business it is to know the + facts, and who all united in warning the Nation that Union men, + either white or colored, were not safe in the South. + + General Grant says that the class at the South who "will + acknowledge no law but force" is sufficiently formidable to justify + the military occupation of that territory. + + General Sheridan, in an official report, says the "trial of a white + man for the murder of a freedman in Texas would be a farce; and, in + making this statement, I make it because truth compels me, and for + no other reason.... Over the killing of many freedmen nothing is + done." General Sheridan cites cases in which our National soldiers + wearing the uniform of the Republic have been deliberately shot + "without provocation" by citizens, and the grand jury refused to + find a bill against the murderers. Even in Virginia, General + Schofield was compelled to resort to a military tribunal because "a + gentleman" who shot a negro dead in cold blood "was instantly + acquitted by one of the civil courts." + + General Ord reports in Arkansas fifty-two murders of freed persons + by white men in the past three or four months, _and no reports have + been received that the murderers have been imprisoned or + punished_.... "The number of murders reported is not half the + number committed." + + General Sickles says that in South Carolina, "in certain counties, + such as Newberry, Edgecombe, and Laurens, so much countenance was + given to outrages on freedmen by the indifference of the civil + authorities and by the population, who made themselves accomplices + in the crimes, that other measures became necessary." + + In Mississippi, General Thomas calls attention to the legislation + in regard to colored people. "It is oppressive, unjust, and + unconstitutional." The laws as to buying real estate, bearing arms, + making contracts, and the like, are of such a character "that the + constitutional gift of freedom is not much more than a name." + + General Sheridan, speaking of Louisiana, says: "Homicides are + frequent in some localities. Sometimes they are investigated by a + coroner's jury, which justifies the act and releases the + perpetrator; in other cases, ... the parties are held to bail in a + nominal sum; but the trial of a white man for the killing of a + freedman can, in the existing state of society in this State, be + nothing more or less than a farce." + + General Thomas, in February last, in relation to the display of the + rebel flag in Rome, Georgia, said: "The sole cause of this and + similar offenses lies in the fact that certain citizens of Rome, + and a portion of the people of the States lately in rebellion, do + not and have not accepted the situation, and that is that the late + civil war was a rebellion, and history will so record it.... + Everywhere in the States lately in rebellion treason is respectable + and loyalty odious. This the people of the United States who ended + the rebellion and saved the country will not permit; and all + attempts to maintain this unnatural order of things will be met by + decided disapproval." + + Upon these official reports, showing not merely that atrocious + crimes were everywhere committed against loyal people, but that + the civil authorities did not even attempt to prevent them by the + punishment of the perpetrators, it became the plain duty of + Congress to adopt measures "to enforce peace and good order in the + rebel States, until loyal and Republican State governments could be + legally established." How well this duty was performed will appear + from a brief examination of the reconstruction acts which were + passed by Congress in March last, and by the auspicious results + which followed their adoption and execution. + + By these acts, the ten rebel States were divided into five military + districts, subject to the military authority of the United States; + and it was made the duty of the president to assign military + officers, not below the rank of brigadier-general, to command each + of said districts, and to detail a sufficient military force to + enable such officers to perform their duties. The duties of + military commanders were defined as follows, in the 3d section of + the act: + + "Sec. 3. _And be it further enacted_, That it shall be the duty of + each officer assigned as aforesaid, to protect all persons in their + rights of person and property, to suppress insurrection, disorder, + and violence, and to punish, or cause to be punished, all + disturbers of the public peace and criminals; and to this end he + may allow local civil tribunals to take jurisdiction of and to try + offenders; or when, in his judgment, it may be necessary for the + trial of offenders, he shall have power to organize military + commissions or tribunals for that purpose; and all interference, + under color of State authority, with the exercise of military + authority under this act shall be null and void." + + The act also sets forth the manner in which the people of any one + of the rebel States could form a State constitution, and the terms + on which the State would be fully restored to proper relations with + the Union. The most important provisions are those relating to the + qualifications of voters, and the one requiring the adoption of the + amendment to the constitution proposed by the Thirty-ninth + Congress, known as article fourteen. The right of suffrage is given + to all men of suitable age and residence, without distinction of + race or color, except a limited number who are excluded for + participation in the rebellion. + + In pursuance of these acts, the district of Louisiana and Texas + was placed under the command of General Sheridan; Arkansas and + Mississippi under General Ord; Alabama, Georgia, and Florida under + General Pope; North Carolina and South Carolina under General + Sickles; and Virginia under General Schofield. The merits of this + plan are obvious. + + 1. It places the rebels again under the control of the power which + conquered them, and of the very officers to whom they surrendered. + + 2. It is well calculated to afford protection to all loyal people, + white or colored, against those who would oppress or injure them on + account of their loyalty. + + 3. It places the new State governments of the South upon the solid + basis of justice and equal rights. + + This plan received in Congress the support of many members of + Congress who did not uniformly vote with the Union party, and was + acceptable to some of its most distinguished adversaries. In the + Senate, Reverdy Johnson, a Maryland Democrat, voted for it, and + made effective speeches in its support. The loyal press of the + North, without exception, upheld it. + + In the South, its success was everywhere gratifying and unexampled. + Its enemies had said that it would organize anarchy in the rebel + States--that it would immediately inaugurate a war of races between + whites and blacks--and compared the condition of the South under it + to the condition of India under English oppression, and to Hungary + under the despotism of Austria. + + But the course of the public press, and the conduct, the letters, + and speeches of public men in the rebel States, vindicated the + wisdom and justice of the measure. I will quote only from rebel + sources. + + In Virginia, the Charlottesville _Chronicle_ addressed its readers + as follows: + + "FOR WHITE FOLKS AND COLORED FOLKS.--Every colored person may now + go where and when he pleases. He is a free man and a full citizen. + This is not all; by another bound they have become voters. They + will take part in the government of the country. No people was ever + so suddenly, so rapidly lifted up. + + "Shall we all live happily together, or shall we hate each other, + and quarrel and bear malice? + + "Let us all try and get on together. The land is big enough. Let + the whites accommodate themselves to the new state of things. Let + them be polite and kind to all, and be always ready to accord to + every man, whether white or colored, his full rights. We make bold + to say that the behavior of the colored people of this State, since + they were set free, has surprised all fair-minded white people. We + do not believe the white people, under the same circumstances, + would have behaved so well by twenty per cent. They have shown the + greatest moderation. They have passed from plantation hands to + freedom and the ballot without outward excitement." + + The Richmond _Examiner_, the organ of the fire-eaters, says of the + colored people: + + "This class of our population, as a general thing, manifest a + disposition to prepare themselves for the altered political + condition in which the events of the past two years have placed + them. The sudden abolition of slavery did not, as most persons + expected, turn their heads. They have been, in the main, orderly + and well behaved. They have not presumed upon their newly-acquired + freedom to commit breaches of the peace or to be guilty of any acts + calculated to sow dissension between the two races. The utmost good + feeling is felt by the white people of this city toward the + negroes. There is not one particle of bitterness felt for them." + + In South Carolina, Wade Hampton addressed a mixed assembly of + whites and colored people at Columbia, in which he quoted from a + former speech to his old soldiers: + + "There is one other point on which there should be no + misunderstanding as to our position--no loop on which to hang a + possible misconstruction as to our views--and that is the abolition + of slavery. The deed has been done, and I, for one, do honestly + declare that I never wish to see it revoked. Nor do I believe that + the people of the South would now remand the negro to slavery, if + they had the power to do so unquestioned. + + "Under our paternal care, from a mere handful, he grew to be a + mighty host. He came to us a heathen; we made him a Christian. + Idle, vicious, savage in his own country, in ours he became + industrious, gentle, civilized. As a slave, he was faithful to us; + as a freeman, let us treat him as a friend. Deal with him frankly, + justly, kindly, and, my word for it, he will reciprocate your + kindness. If you wish so see him contented, industrious, useful, + aid him in his efforts to elevate himself in the scale of + civilization, and thus fit him not only to enjoy the blessings of + freedom, but to appreciate his duties." + + After stating the provisions of the "military bill," as he calls + the reconstruction law, he said to the colored people: + + "But suppose the bill is pronounced unconstitutional; how then? I + tell you what I am willing to see done. I am willing to give the + right of suffrage to all who can read and who pay a certain amount + of taxes; and I agree that this qualification shall bear on white + and black alike. You would have no right to complain of a law which + would put you on a perfect political equality with the whites, and + which would put within your reach and that of your children the + privilege enjoyed by any class of citizens." + + In Georgia, the prevailing sentiment is indicated by the following. + The Atlanta _New Era_ says: + + "We freely accept the Sherman platform as the only means whereby to + rescue the country from total destruction, and if we mistake not, + our backbone will prove sufficiently strong to enable us to look + the issue full in the face, without a shudder. It is our bounden + duty, and that of every other patriot and well-wisher of the South, + to at once signify an unconditional acceptance of the measures + perfected by Congress for our restoration to the Union, and + heartily co-operate with the United States authorities in securing + that most desirable end." + + The Augusta _Press_, alluding to the recent meeting of negroes at + Columbia, S. C., and the fact that speeches were made by General + Wade Hampton and others, states that-- + + "All good citizens all over the South entertain precisely the same + kind feelings for the colored people that were exhibited by these + eminent Carolinians, and it is unfortunate that these sentiments + are not more widely manifested in meetings for public counsel with + them. 'Representative men' in every community should be prompt and + earnest in signifying their wish to co-operate with the colored + people in the administration of the laws and the preservation of + harmony and good will. To this end, we deem it our duty to urge + that in every community public meetings be held, in which the two + races may take friendly counsel together." + + In Florida, Hon. R. S. Mallory, a former Democratic United States + Senator, is reported to have said, at a large meeting composed of + whites and blacks, in Pensacola, that-- + + "The recent legislation of Congress ought to be submitted to in + good faith; that, as the negro was now entitled to vote, it was the + interest of the State that he should be educated and enlightened, + and made to comprehend the priceless value of the ballot, and the + importance to himself and to the State of its judicious use. + + "Let us fully and frankly acknowledge, as well by deeds as by + words, their equality with us, before law, and regard it as no less + just to ourselves and them than to our State and her best interests + to aid in their education, elevation, and enjoyment of all the + rights which follow their new condition." + + Governor Patton, of Alabama, says: + + "It seems to me that it is the true feeling of the Southern people + to contribute their best influence in favor of an early + organization of their respective States, in accordance with the + requirements of the recent reconstruction act. Congress claims the + right to control this whole question. In my humble judgment, it is + unwise to contend longer against its power, or to struggle further + against its repeatedly expressed will." + + * * * * * + + "The freedmen are now to vote the first time. We should cherish + against them no ill-feeling. The elective franchise is conferred + upon them; let them exercise it freely, and in their own way. No + effort should be made to control their votes, except such as may + tend to enable them to vote intelligently, and such as may be + necessary to protect them against mischievous influences to which, + from their want of intelligence, they may possibly be subjected. + Above all things, we should discourage everything which may tend to + generate antagonism between white and colored voters." + + In Mississippi, Albert G. Brown, a former Democratic United States + Senator, and a rebel, says: + + "To those who think it most becoming men in my situation to keep + quiet, I am free to say 'that is very much my own opinion.'" + + "As I speak reluctantly, you will not be surprised if I say as + little as possible." + + * * * * * + + "The negro is a fixture in this country. He is not going out of + it; he is not going to die out, and he is not going to be driven + out. Nor is his exodus from the country desirable. I am frank in + saying if they, every one of them, could be packed in a balloon, + carried over the water, and emptied into Africa, I would not have + it done, unless, indeed, it were already arranged that the balloon + should return by the way of Germany, Ireland, Scotland, etc., and + bring us a return cargo of white laborers. If the negro is to stay + here, and it is desirable to have him do so, what is the duty of + the intelligent white man toward him? Why, to educate him, admit + him, when sufficiently instructed, to the right of voting, and as + rapidly as possible prepare him for a safe and rational enjoyment + of that 'equality before the law' which, as a free man, he has a + right to claim, and which we can not long refuse to give." + + The Mississippi _Index_ says: + + "There are some laws on our statute-book respecting negroes that + are of no practical use, and will have to be done away with some + day. The sooner we dispense with them the better. But in the matter + of educating the negro we can accomplish more toward convincing the + people of the North that we have been misrepresented and slandered + than by legislative action. Let us take the work of education out + of the hands of the Yankees among us. We can do this by encouraging + the establishment of negro schools and placing them in the charge + of men and women whom we know to be competent and trustworthy." + + In Louisiana, General Longstreet, one of the most distinguished of + the rebel Generals, says: + + "The striking feature, and the one that our people should keep in + view, is, that we are a conquered people. Recognizing this fact + fairly and squarely, there is but one course left for wise men to + pursue--accept the terms that are offered us by the conquerors. + There can be no discredit to a conquered people for accepting the + conditions offered by their conquerors. Nor is that any occasion + for a feeling of humiliation. We have made an honest, and I hope + that I may say, a creditable fight, but we have lost. Let us come + forward, then, and accept the ends involved in the struggle. + + "Our people earnestly desire that the constitutional government + shall be re-established, and the only means to accomplish this is + to comply with the requirements of the recent Congressional + legislation." + + * * * * * + + "The military bill and amendments are peace offerings. We should + accept them as such, and place ourselves upon them as the + starting-point from which to meet future political issues as they + arise." + + "Like other Southern men, I naturally sought alliance with the + Democratic party, merely because it was opposed to the Republican + party. But, as far as I can judge, there is nothing tangible about + it, except the issues that were staked upon the war and lost. + Finding nothing to take hold of except prejudice, which can not be + worked into good for any one, it is proper and right that I should + seek some standpoint from which good may be done." + + Quotations like these from prominent Democratic politicians, from + rebel soldiers, and from influential rebel newspapers, might be + multiplied indefinitely. Enough have been given to show how + completely and how exactly the Reconstruction Acts have met the + evil to be remedied in the South. My friend, Mr. Hassaurek, in his + admirable speech at Columbus, did not estimate too highly the + fruits of these measures. Said he: + + "And, sir, this remedy at once effected the desired cure. The poor + contraband is no longer the persecuted outlaw whom incurable rebels + might kick and kill with impunity; but he at once became 'our + colored fellow-citizen,' in whose well-being his former master + takes the liveliest interest. Thus, by bringing the negro under the + American system, we have completed his emancipation. He has ceased + to be a pariah. From an outcast he has been transformed into a + human being, invested with the great National attribute of + self-protection, and the re-establishment of peace, and order, and + security, the revival of business and trade, and the restoration of + the Southern States on the basis of loyalty and equal justice to + all, will be the happy results of this astonishing metamorphosis, + provided the party which has inaugurated this policy remains in + power to carry it out." + + The Peace Democracy generally throughout the North oppose this + measure. In Ohio they oppose it especially because it commits the + people of the Nation in favor of manhood suffrage. They tell us + that if it is wise and just to entrust the ballot to colored men + in the District of Columbia, in the Territories, and in the rebel + States, it is also just and wise that they should have it in Ohio + and in the other States of the North. + + Union men do not question this reasoning, but if it is urged as an + objection to the plan of Congress, we reply: There are now within + the limits of the United States about five millions of colored + people. They are not aliens or strangers. They are here not by the + choice of themselves or of their ancestors. They are here by the + misfortune of their fathers and the crime of ours. Their labor, + privations, and sufferings, unpaid and unrequited, have cleared and + redeemed one-third of the inhabited territory of the Union. Their + toil has added to the resources and wealth of the nation untold + millions. Whether we prefer it or not, they are our countrymen, and + will remain so forever. + + They are more than countrymen--they are citizens. Free colored + people were citizens of the colonies. The Constitution of the + United States, formed by our fathers, created no disabilities on + account of color. By the acts of our fathers and of ourselves, they + bear equally the burdens and are required to discharge the highest + duties of citizens. They are compelled to pay taxes and to bear + arms. They fought side by side with their white countrymen in the + great struggle for independence, and in the recent war for the + Union. In the revolutionary contest, colored men bore an honorable + part, from the Boston massacre, in 1770, to the surrender of + Cornwallis, in 1781. Bancroft says: "Their names may be read on the + pension rolls of the country side by side with those of other + soldiers of the revolution." In the war of 1812 General Jackson + issued an order complimenting the colored men of his army engaged + in the defense of New Orleans. I need not speak of their number or + of their services in the war of the rebellion. The Nation enrolled + and accepted them among her defendants to the number of about two + hundred thousand, and in the new regular army act, passed at the + close of the rebellion, by the votes of Democrats and Union men + alike, in the Senate and in the House, and by the assent of the + president, regiments of colored men, cavalry and infantry, form + part of the standing army of the Republic. + + In the navy, colored American sailors have fought side by side with + white men from the days of Paul Jones to the victory of the + Kearsarge over the rebel pirate Alabama. Colored men will, in the + future as in the past, in all times of National peril, be our + fellow-soldiers. Tax-payers, countrymen, fellow-citizens, and + fellow-soldiers, the colored men of America have been and will be. + It is now too late for the adversaries of nationality and human + rights to undertake to deprive these tax-payers, freemen, citizens, + and soldiers of the right to vote. + + Slaves were never voters. It was bad enough that our fathers, for + the sake of Union, were compelled to allow masters to reckon + three-fifths of their slaves for representation, without adding + slave suffrage to the other privileges of the slaveholder. But free + colored men were always voters in many of the Colonies, and in + several of the States, North and South, after independence was + achieved. They voted for members of the Congress which declared + independence, and for members of every Congress prior to the + adoption of the Federal Constitution; for the members of the + convention which framed the Constitution; for the members of many + of the State conventions which ratified it, and for every president + from Washington to Lincoln. + + Our government has been called the white man's government. Not so. + It is not the government of any class, or sect, or nationality, or + race. It is a government founded on the consent of the governed, + and Mr. Broomall, of Pennsylvania, therefore properly calls it "the + government of the governed." It is not the government of the native + born, or of the foreign born, of the rich man, or of the poor man, + of the white man, or of the colored man--it is the government of + the freeman. And when colored men were made citizens, soldiers, and + freemen, by our consent and votes, we were estopped from denying to + them the right of suffrage. + + General Sherman was right when he said, in his Atlanta letter, of + 1864: "If you admit the negro to this struggle for any purpose, he + has a right to stay in for all; and, when the fight is over, the + hand that drops the musket can not be denied the ballot." + + Even our adversaries are compelled to admit the Jeffersonian rule, + that "the man who pays taxes and who fights for the country is + entitled to vote." + + Mr. Pendleton, in his speech against the enlistment of colored + soldiers, gave up the whole controversy. He said: "Gentlemen tell + us that these colored men are ready, with their strong arms and + their brave hearts, to maintain the supremacy of the Constitution, + and to defend the integrity of the Union, which in our hands to-day + is in peril. What is that Constitution? It provides that every + child of the Republic, every citizen of the land is before the law + the equal of every other. It provides for all of them trial by + jury, free speech, free press, entire protection for life and + liberty and property. It goes further. It secures to every citizen + the right of suffrage, the right to hold office, the right to + aspire to every office or agency by which the government is carried + on. Every man called upon to do military duty, every man required + to take up arms in its defense, is by its provisions entitled to + vote, and a competent aspirant for every office in the government." + + The truth is, impartial manhood suffrage is already practically + decided. It is now merely a question of time. In the eleven rebel + States, in five of the New England States, and in a number of the + Northwestern States, there is no organized party able to + successfully oppose impartial suffrage. The Democratic party of + more than half of the States are ready to concede its justice and + expediency. The Boston _Post_, the able organ of the New England + Democracy, says: + + "Color ought to have no more to do with the matter (voting) than + size. Only establish a right standard, and then apply it + impartially. A rule of that sort is too firmly fixed in justice and + equality to be shaken. It commends itself too clearly to the good + sentiment of the entire body of our countrymen to be successfully + traversed by objections. Once let this principle be fairly + presented to the people of the several States, with the knowledge + on their part that they alone are to have the disposal and + settlement of it, and we sincerely believe it would not be long + before it would be adopted by every State in the Union." + + The New York _World_, the ablest Democratic newspaper in the Union, + says: + + "Democrats in the North, as well as the South, should be fully + alive to the importance of the new element thrust into the politics + of the country. We suppose it to be morally certain that the new + constitution of the State of New York, to be framed this year, will + confer the elective franchise upon all adult male negroes. We have + no faith in the success of any efforts to shut the negro element + out of politics. It is the part of wisdom frankly to accept the + situation, and get beforehand with the Radicals in gaining an + ascendancy over the negro mind." + + The Chicago _Times_, the influential organ of the Northwestern + Democracy, says: + + "The word 'white' is not found in any of the original + constitutions, save only that of South Carolina. In every other + State negroes, who possessed the qualifications that were required + impartially of all men, were admitted to vote, and many of that + race did vote, in the Southern as well as in the Northern States. + And, moreover, they voted the Democratic ticket, for it was the + Democratic party of that day which affirmed their right in that + respect upon an impartial basis with white men. All Democrats can + not, even at this day, have forgotten the statement of General + Jackson, that he was supported for the presidency by negro voters + in the State of Tennessee. + + "The doctrine of impartial suffrage is one of the earliest and most + essential doctrines of Democracy. It is the affirmation of the + right of every man who is made a partaker of the burdens of the + State to be represented by his own consent or vote in its + government. It is the first principle upon which all true + republican government rests. It is the basis upon which the + liberties of America will be preserved, if they are preserved at + all. The Democratic party must return from its driftings, and stand + again upon the immutable rock of principles." + + In Ohio the leaders of the Peace Democracy intend to carry on one + more campaign on the old and rotten platform of prejudice against + colored people. They seek in this way to divert attention from the + record they made during the war of the rebellion. But the great + facts of our recent history are against them. The principles of the + fathers, reason, religion, and the spirit of the age are against + them. + + The plain and monstrous inconsistency and injustice of excluding + one-seventh of our population from all participation in a + government founded on the consent of the governed in this land of + free discussion is simply impossible. No such absurdity and wrong + can be permanent. Impartial suffrage will carry the day. No low + prejudice will long be able to induce American citizens to deny to + a weak people their best means of self-protection for the unmanly + reason that they are weak. Chief Justice Chase expressed the true + sentiment when he said "the American Nation can not afford to do + the smallest injustice to the humblest and feeblest of her + children." + + Much has been said of the antagonism which exists between the + different races of men. But difference of religion, difference of + nationality, difference of language, and difference of rank and + privileges are quite as fruitful causes of antagonism and war as + difference of race. The bitter strifes between Christians and Jews, + between Catholics and Protestants, between Englishmen and Irishmen, + between aristocracy and the masses are only too familiar. What + causes increase and aggravate these antagonisms, and what are the + measures which diminish and prevent them, ought to be equally + familiar. Under the partial and unjust laws of the Nations of the + Old World men of one nationality were allowed to oppress those of + another; men of one faith had rights which were denied to men of a + different faith; men of one rank or caste enjoyed special + privileges which were not granted to men of another. Under these + systems peace was impossible and strife perpetual. But under just + and equal laws in the United States, Jews, Protestants, and + Catholics, Englishmen and Irishmen, the former aristocrat and the + masses of the people, dwell and mingle harmoniously together. The + uniform lesson of history is that unjust and partial laws increase + and create antagonism, while justice and equality are the sure + foundation of prosperity and peace. + + Impartial suffrage secures also popular education. Nothing has + given the careful observer of events in the South more + gratification than the progress which is there going on in the + establishment of schools. The colored people, who as slaves were + debarred from education, regard the right to learn as one of the + highest privileges of freemen. The ballot gives them the power to + secure that privilege. All parties and all public men in the South + agree that, if colored men vote, ample provision must be made in + the reorganization of every State for free schools. The ignorance + of the masses, whites as well as blacks, is one of the most + discouraging features of Southern society. If Congressional + reconstruction succeeds, there will be free schools for all. The + colored people will see that their children attend them. We need + indulge in no fears that the white people will be left behind. + Impartial suffrage, then, means popular intelligence; it means + progress; it means loyalty; it means harmony between the North and + the South, and between the whites and the colored people. + + The Union party believes that the general welfare requires that + measures should be adopted which will work great changes in the + South. Our adversaries are accustomed to talk of the rebellion as + an affair which began when the rebels attacked Fort Sumter in 1861, + and which ended when Lee surrendered to Grant in 1865. It is true + that the attempt by force of arms to destroy the United States + began and ended during the administration of Mr. Lincoln. But the + causes, the principles, and the motives which produced the + rebellion are of an older date than the generation which suffered + from the fruit they bore, and their influence and power are likely + to last long after that generation passes away. Ever since armed + rebellion failed, a large party in the South have struggled to make + participation in the rebellion honorable and loyalty to the Union + dishonorable. The lost cause with them is the honored cause. In + society, in business, and in politics, devotion to treason is the + test of merit, the passport to preferment. They wish to return to + the old state of things--_an oligarchy of race and the sovereignty + of States._ + + To defeat this purpose, to secure the rights of man, and to + perpetuate the National Union, are the objects of the Congressional + plan of reconstruction. That plan has the hearty support of the + great generals (so far as their opinions are known)--of Grant, of + Thomas, of Sheridan, of Howard--who led the armies of the Union + which conquered the rebellion. The statesmen most trusted by Mr. + Lincoln and by the loyal people of the country during the war also + support it. The Supreme Court of the United States, upon formal + application and after solemn argument, refuse to interfere with its + execution. The loyal press of the country, which did so much in the + time of need to uphold the patriot cause, without exception, are in + favor of the plan. + + In the South, as we have seen, the lessons of the war and the + events occurring since the war have made converts of thousands of + the bravest and of the ablest of those who opposed the National + cause. General Longstreet, a soldier second to no living corps + commander of the rebel army, calls it "a peace offering," and + advises the South in good faith to organize under it. Unrepentant + rebels and unconverted Peace Democrats oppose it, just as they + opposed the measures which destroyed slavery and saved the nation. + + Opposition to whatever the Nation approves seems to be the policy + of the representative men of the Peace Democracy. Defeat and + failure comprise their whole political history. In laboring to + overthrow reconstruction they are probably destined to further + defeat and further failure. I know not how it may be in other + States, but if I am not greatly mistaken as to the mind of the + loyal people of Ohio, they mean to trust power in the hands of no + man who, during the awful struggle for the Nation's life, proved + unfaithful to the cause of liberty and of Union. They will continue + to exclude from the administration of the government those who + prominently opposed the war, until every question arising out of + the rebellion relating to the integrity of the Nation and to human + rights shall have been firmly settled on the basis of impartial + justice. + + They mean that the State of Ohio, in this great progress, "whose + leading object is to elevate the condition of men, to lift + artificial weights from all shoulders, to clear the paths of + laudable pursuits for all, to afford all an unfettered start and a + fair chance in the race of life," shall tread no step backward. + + Penetrated and sustained by a conviction that in this contest the + Union party of Ohio is doing battle for the right, I enter upon my + part of the labors of the canvass with undoubting confidence that + the goodness of the cause will supply the weakness of its + advocates, and command in the result that triumphant success which + I believe it deserves. + + +_Speech of_ GENERAL R. B. HAYES, _delivered at Sidney, Ohio, Wednesday, +September 4, 1867._ + + _Mr. President and Fellow-Citizens:_ + + It was very plain at the beginning of the pending canvass in Ohio + that the leading speakers of the peace party of the State were + desirous to persuade the people that at this election they were to + pass upon different issues from those which have been considered + in former elections. They undertook at the beginning, generally, to + discuss questions which have not heretofore been much considered. + They told the people that the old issues were settled, and that in + this canvass in particular, there would be no propriety in + discussing the record made by men during the war; that the war was + over; that bygones ought to be permitted to be bygones; and they + started a considerable number of subjects for discussion, which I + claim are either unimportant matters, or are matters which are in + no sense party questions. For example, Judge Ranney, in a very + elaborate speech at Mansfield, of great length, discussed perhaps a + dozen or fifteen topics, almost all of which are in no sense party + questions. For example, he talked about the land grants that had + been made to the railroads, particularly to the Pacific Railroad, + during the last few years, and of the subsidies of money that by + law have been given to the railroad companies. Now, this is but a + specimen of the topics discussed by Judge Ranney. It is enough to + say, in regard to the railroads, that they were voted for + indiscriminately by Union men and by Democrats--peace Democrats and + war Democrats--and that they were finally made laws by the + signature of Andrew Johnson. They are in no sense, therefore, party + issues; and the only purpose of discussing them is, so far as I can + see, to mislead the people, and to withdraw their attention from + the main issues before them. + + Judge Thurman has discussed the subject of a standing army. He has + spoken of the great expense of keeping up a standing army, and, as + I think, has greatly exaggerated the sum requisite--naming two + hundred and fifty millions as the annual expense of it. I suppose + that is three or four, or perhaps five times as great as the actual + amount: but I do not stop to argue that matter with him. I say to + him, in regard to it, that Democrats voted for it in both houses, + and it became a law by the signature of the president whom he + supports. It is not, therefore, a party issue. + + I can not, in any reasonable length of time, even name the various + topics that have been discussed in this way. Perhaps none has + attracted more attention than the subject of finances, and the main + issue presented by our Democratic friends on that subject has been + this--namely, that it is for the interest of the people to pay off + the whole of the present bonded debt by an issue of greenbacks. At + the beginning of the canvass, the Cincinnati _Enquirer_, and, I + think, the leading peace party paper at Columbus, and Mr. + Vallandigham, presented this as the leading question before the + people. The _Enquirer_ told us that Democratic conventions in forty + counties had resolved in favor of it; and certainly if any one of + the topics which have been presented in this way may be regarded as + a party topic, that is one. If they have succeeded in making a new + issue, that is one. On the 20th of last month, I spoke at Batavia, + and I referred to that subject. I said that Judge Thurman was + plainly committed against the issue of more greenbacks; that when + we were in the midst of the war, and the necessities of the country + were such that it was necessary to get money by every means in our + power, he had told the people there was no constitutional authority + to issue greenbacks. I said further, that in his speech at Waverly + he had spoken of this currency as a currency of rags; and that, + therefore, I was authorized to say he was opposed to this new + scheme of the Cincinnati _Enquirer_. That speech of mine was + reported in the Cincinnati _Commercial_ of the next morning. On the + following day, the 22d of August, the _Enquirer_ noticed my speech. + I will read you the whole of the _Enquirer's_ article on that + subject. I do this because I think, in this county as well as + elsewhere, Democrats are claiming the votes of Union men on the + ground that it is wise to pay off the bonded debt by an issue of + greenbacks, and I wish to show that Judge Thurman is opposed to the + scheme. Therefore, it is no party issue, because no party State + convention has resolved in favor of it, and the peace party + candidate for governor is against it. The _Enquirer_ says, under + the caption of "Judge Thurman and the bondholders:" + + "In his speech at Batavia, Clermont county, on Tuesday, General + Hayes, while discussing the payment of the public debt question, + said: + + "Judge Thurman has not yet spoken distinctly on this question. But + his well-known opinion, that even the necessities of the war did + not authorize, under our constitution, the issue of the + legal-tender currency, coupled with the fact that he speaks of it + in his Waverly speech as a currency of 'rags--only rags'--warrants + me in saying that he is probably opposed, on grounds both of + constitutional law and of expediency, to the financial scheme of + Mr. Vallandigham and of the Cincinnati _Enquirer_. Judge Ranney and + Judge Jewett are also evidently unwilling to accept the inflation + theories of the _Enquirer_. They are both opposed to taking up the + greenbacks now in circulation by an issue of bonds bearing + interest, and repeat the same arguments against this policy of + Johnson's administration which were urged by the Cincinnati + _Gazette_ and by Thaddeus Stevens and Judge Kelley, with much more + cogency, a year or two ago." + + Commenting on the above, the _Enquirer_ says, editorially: + + "This will render it necessary for Judge Thurman to do what he + ought to have done in his first (Waverly) speech, define his + position distinctly on this question. As one of his friends and + supporters, we call upon him to put a stop to these representations + of General Hayes by giving the people his views. + + "Is he for the bondholders or the people? Does he believe that the + debts due the bondholders should be paid in any other than the + government money, which pays all other debts and liabilities, even + those which were contracted in gold? + + "Is he for one currency for the bondholders and another and + different currency for the people? + + "The Democracy of more than forty counties in Ohio have spoken out + on this question, and we have no doubt the example will be followed + by every county in the State. In some counties no other resolutions + have been passed. + + "The time has passed when the people kept step to the music of + candidates. The latter must now march with and not against the + people. Will Judge Thurman define his position, for thousands of + votes may depend upon it?" + + On the 27th of August, at Wapakoneta, Judge Thurman made a speech, + which I hold in my hand--as you see, a very long speech, covering + all of one side of the _Commercial_, and parts of two others. One + would suppose that, a week having elapsed since the speech to which + his attention was called had been made, that in this speech, at + least, if this was an important issue of the canvass, we should + have his position plainly and clearly defined. Of that long speech + he devotes to that important question, which the _Enquirer_ says is + the real question, and which many of your speakers doubtless here + say is the real question, precisely eleven lines--one short + paragraph. And the pith of that paragraph is contained in these two + lines: "I am sorry that what I have to say on that subject for + publication I must reserve for some future time." + + I think that this satisfactorily shows where my friend Judge + Thurman stands on that issue, and that we therefore need no longer + discuss it--in short, that, as a party question, it is abandoned by + the candidate of the Democratic party. There is another phase of + the financial question. Judge Ranney and Judge Jewett are telling + the people that it is the policy of Secretary McCulloch to take up + the greenback currency and issue in its stead interest-bearing + bonds, not taxable, principal and interest, both payable in coin at + the option of the secretary. That is true. That was the policy, and + is the policy of Secretary McCulloch. But they go further, and say + they are authorized to say that this is the policy of the Union + party. I take issue with them on that statement. They offer no + proof that it is true, except the fact that it is the policy of the + Johnson administration; and I submit to an intelligent audience + that the fact that Johnson and his administration are in favor of a + measure is no evidence whatever that the Union party supports it. + It is not for me to prove a negative, but I am prepared, + nevertheless, to prove it. The very measure which was intended to + carry out this policy of Secretary McCulloch to enable him to take + up the greenback currency with interest-bearing bonds was + introduced in Congress in March, 1866. I have here the votes upon + that question, and I say to you that the Democratic party in both + houses--all the members of the Democratic party in both + houses--voted for Senator McCulloch's plan, and that Mr. Julian, + Judge Schofield, Mr. Lawrence, all of whom I see here, and myself, + a majority of the Republican members of Congress, voted against the + scheme, and it became a law because a minority of the Union party, + with the unanimous vote of the Democratic party, supported it; and + because, when it was submitted to Andrew Johnson, instead of + vetoing it, as he did all Union party measures, he wrote his name, + on the 12th of April, at the bottom of it, "Approved, Andrew + Johnson." Now, it is under that measure, and by virtue of that law, + voted for by Mr. Finck and and Mr. LeBlond, of the Democratic party + of Ohio, in the House of Representatives; it is by virtue of that + law that to-day Secretary McCulloch is issuing interest-bearing + bonds, not taxable, to take up the greenback currency of the + country. I think, then, I am authorized in saying that these + gentlemen are mistaken when they accuse the Union party of being in + favor of taking up the greenback currency and putting in the place + of it interest-bearing, non-taxable bonds. + + This investigation of two or three of the leading questions + presented to the people at the beginning of this canvass by the + advocates of the peace party of Ohio is, I think, sufficient to + warrant me in saying that all of the side issues presented are + merely urged on the people to withdraw their minds from the great + main issue which ought to engage the attention of the American + Nation. What is that great issue? It is reconstruction. That is the + main question before us, and until it is settled, and settled + rightly, all other issues sink into insignificance in comparison + with it. Fortunately for the Union party of Ohio, events are + occurring every day at Washington which tend more and more clearly + to define the exact question before the people, showing that the + main question is whether the Union shall be reconstructed in the + interests of the rebellion or in the interests of loyalty and + Union; whether that reconstruction shall be carried on by men who, + during the war, were in favor of the war and against the rebellion, + or by men who in the North were against the war, and who in the + South carried on the rebellion. On one side of this question we see + Andrew Johnson, Judge Black, and the other leaders of the peace + party of the North and the unrepentant rebels of the South; and on + the other side is the great war secretary, Stanton, with General + Grant, General Sheridan, General Thomas, General Howard, and the + other Union commanders engaged in carrying out the reconstruction + acts of Congress. This presents clearly enough the question before + the people. General Grant, in one paragraph of his letter to the + president, said to him: + + "General Sheridan has performed his civil duties faithfully and + intelligently. His removal will only be regarded as an effort to + defeat the laws of Congress. It will be interpreted by the + unreconstructed element in the South--those who did all they could + to break up this government by arms, and now wish to be the only + element consulted as to the method of restoring order--as a + triumph. It will embolden them to renewed opposition to the will of + the loyal masses, believing that they have the executive with + them." + + This presents exactly the question before the people. We want the + loyal people of the country, the victors in the great struggle we + have passed through, to do the work; we want reconstruction upon + such principles, and by means of such measures that the causes + which made reconstruction necessary shall not exist in the + reconstructed Union; we want that foolish notion of State rights, + which teaches that the State is superior to the Nation--that there + is a State sovereignty which commands the allegiance of every + citizen higher than the sovereignty of the nation--we want that + notion left out of the reconstructed Union; we want it understood + that whatever doubts may have existed prior to the war as to the + relation of the State to the National government, that now the + National government is supreme, anything in the constitution or + laws of any State to the contrary notwithstanding. Again, as one of + the causes of the rebellion, we want slavery left out, not merely + in name, but in fact, and forever; we want the last vestige, the + last relic of that institution, rooted out of the laws and + institutions of every State; we want that in the South there shall + be no more suppression of free discussion. I notice that in the + long speech of my friend, Judge Thurman, he says that for nearly + fifty years, throughout the length and breadth of the land, freedom + of speech and of the press was never interfered with, either by the + government or the people. For more than thirty years, + fellow-citizens, there has been no such thing as free discussion in + the South. Those moderate speeches of Abraham Lincoln on the + subject of slavery--not one of them--could have been delivered + without endangering his life, south of Mason and Dixon's line. We + want in the reconstructed Union that there shall be the same + freedom of the press and freedom of speech in the States of the + South that there always has been in the States of the North. Again, + we want the reconstructed Union upon such principles that the men + of the South who, during the war, were loyal and true to the + government, shall be protected in life, liberty, and property, and + in the exercise of their political rights. It becomes the solemn + duty of the loyal victors in the great struggle to see that the men + who, in the midst of difficulties, discouragements, and dangers in + the South were true, are protected in these rights. And, in order + that our reconstruction shall be carried out faithfully and + accomplish these objects, we further want that the work shall be in + the hands of the right men. Andrew Johnson, in the days when he was + loyal, said the work of reconstruction ought to be placed + absolutely in the hands of the loyal men of the State; that rebels, + and particularly leading rebels, ought not to participate in that + work; that while that work is going on they must take back seats. + We want that understood in our work of reconstruction. How + important it is to have the right men in charge of this work + appears upon the most cursory examination of what has already been + done. President Lincoln administered the same laws + substantially--was sworn to support the same constitution with + Andrew Johnson--yet how different the reconstruction as carried out + by these two men. Lincoln's reconstruction in all the States which + he undertook to reorganize gave to those States loyal governments, + loyal governors, loyal legislatures, judges, and officers of the + law. Andrew Johnson, administering the same constitution and the + same laws, reconstructs a number of States, and in all of them + leading rebels are elected governors, leading rebels are members of + the legislature, and leading rebels are sent to Congress. It makes, + then, the greatest difference to the people of this country who it + is that does the work. + + This, my friends, brings me to a proposition to which I call the + attention of every audience that I have occasion to address, and + that is this, that until the work of reconstruction is complete, + until every question arising out of the rebellion relating to the + integrity of the Nation and to human rights has been settled, and + settled rightly, no man ought to be trusted with power in this + country, who, during the struggle for the Nation's life, was + unfaithful to Union and liberty. That is the proposition upon which + I go before the people of Ohio. At the beginning of the canvass, as + I have said, the gentlemen who are engaged in advocating the claims + of the peace party of Ohio did not desire to have this record + discussed. I am happy to know by this long Wapakoneta speech of + Judge Thurman that at last they have found it necessary to come to + the discussion of the true question. Judge Thurman, in that speech, + invites us to the discussion of it. He says: + + "I give all of them this bold and unequivocal defiance, that there + is no one act of my life, or one sentence ever uttered by me that I + am not prepared to have investigated by the American people; and I + wish them to stand up to the same rule, that I may see what is in + their past record, and see how it tallies with what they say to the + American people at the present time." + + He proceeds to do this. He proceeds to examine the record of + various gentlemen connected with the Union party. Now, I am not in + the habit of giving challenges or accepting challenges, but I + desire, for a few minutes, to ask the attention of this audience to + the record of my friend, Judge Thurman. He under-takes to justify + the course he took as a leader of the peace party of Ohio, by + telling us what Mr. Lincoln said in 1848. Now, what is it that Mr. + Lincoln said? He made a speech during the Mexican war as to the + title which Texas had to certain lands in dispute between the State + of Texas and Mexico, or rather between the United States and + Mexico. He laid down the doctrine that a revolutionary government + is entitled to own just as much of the property of the former + government as it has succeeded in conquering; and he says, in the + course of that speech, that it is the right of every people to + revolutionize; that the right of revolution, in short, belongs to + every people; that it was the right exercised by our forefathers in + 1776. Now, that is all true--that is all correct; but how does my + friend Judge Thurman find any justification for the rebellion in + that? What is the right of revolution? It is the right to resist a + government under which you live, if that government is guilty of + intolerable oppression or injustice, but not otherwise. And that is + the doctrine of Abraham Lincoln. Now, in order to make that a + precedent for the rebellion, Judge Thurman is bound to take the + position that, in the case of the rebel States, there had been acts + of intolerable oppression and injustice done to that part of the + country which went into rebellion. I know that the rebels, for the + most part, did not put the rebellion upon that ground; but Judge + Thurman now does it for them. He makes it out--or must make it out + to sustain himself--that it was a case of revolution, growing out + of the exercise of that right which our fathers exercised in 1776. + Now, if Judge Thurman can show that there was justification for the + rebellion, he has made out his case. If that rebellion was not + justified by such circumstances--if there was no such intolerable + injustice and oppression--he has failed in his precedent. He goes + further, and says that Mr. Wade, Chief Justice Chase, Secretary + Stanton, and General Butler all held sentiments before the war the + same as the sentiments which he held then, and holds now, on the + subject of the rights of the States. Suppose they did--suppose they + belonged to the same party before the war--is that any defense of + his conduct during the war? They saw fit, after the war had broken + out, to rally to the side of their country, notwithstanding any + notions or theories they might have held with regard to the rights + of the States. + + I do not stop now to discuss the correctness of Judge Thurman's + opinions as to the course of these men prior to the war. It is + enough for me to say that the question I make--the question which + the people of Ohio make--is, What was your conduct after it was + found that there was a conspiracy to break up the Union, after war + was upon us, and armies were raised--what was your conduct then? + That is the question before the people. And I ask of an intelligent + audience, what was the duty of a good citizen after that war for + the destruction of the government and the Union had begun? Need I + ask any old Jackson Democrat what is his duty when the Union is at + stake? In 1806, Aaron Burr proposed this matter to Andrew Jackson, + of making a new confederacy in the Southwest. Jackson said: + + "I hate the Dons, and I would like to see Mexico dismembered; but + before I would see one State of this Union severed from the rest, I + would die in the last ditch." + + That was Jackson's Democracy. Douglass said: + + "This is no time for delay. The existence of a conspiracy is now + known; armies are raised to accomplish it. There can be but two + sides to the question. A man must be either for the United States + or against the United States. There can be no neutrals in this + war--only patriots and traitors." + + There is the Douglass doctrine. But I need not go back to Jackson + and Douglass. I have the opinions of the very gentlemen who now + lead the peace party on this subject. Let me read you a resolution, + introduced and passed through a Democratic convention, in 1848, by + Clement L. Vallandigham: + + "_Resolved_, That whatever opinions might have been entertained of + the origin, necessity or justice, by the Tories of the + revolutionary war, by the Federalists of the late war with England, + or by the Whigs and Abolitionists of the present war with Mexico, + the fact of their country being engaged in such a war ought to have + been sufficient for them and to have precluded debate on that + subject till a successful termination of the war, and that in the + meantime the patriot could have experienced no difficulty in + recognizing his place on the side of his country, and could never + have been induced to yield either physical or moral aid to the + enemy." + + I will quote also from Judge Thurman himself. In a speech lecturing + one of his colleagues, who thought the Mexican war was unnecessary, + he says: + + "It is a strange way to support one's country, right or wrong, to + declare after war has begun, when it exists both in law and in + fact, that the war is aggressive, unholy, unrighteous, and damnable + on the part of the government of that country, and on that + government rests its responsibility and its wrongfulness. It is a + strange way to support one's country right or wrong in a war, to + tax one's imagination to the utmost to depict the disastrous + consequences of the contest; to dwell on what it has already cost + and what it will cost in future; to depict her troops prostrated by + disease and dying with pestilence; in a word, to destroy, as far as + possible, the moral force of the government in the struggle, and + hold it up to its own people and the world as the aggressor that + merits their condemnation. It was for this that I arraigned my + colleague, and that I intend to arraign him. It was because his + remarks, as far as they could have any influence, were evidently + calculated to depress the spirits of his own countrymen, to lessen + the moral force of his own government, and to inspire with + confidence and hope the enemies of his country." + + He goes on further to say: + + "What a singular mode it was of supporting her in a war to bring + against the war nearly all the charges that were brought by the + peace party Federalists against the last war, to denounce it as an + unrighteous, unholy, and damnable war; to hold up our government to + the eyes of the world as the aggressors in the conflict; to charge + it with motives of conquest and aggrandizement; to parade and + portray in the darkest colors all the horrors of war; to dwell upon + its cost and depict its calamities." + + Now, that was the doctrine of Judge Thurman as to the duties of + citizens in time of war--in time of such a war as the Mexican war + even, in which no vital interest of the country could by + possibility suffer. Judge Thurman says that General Hayes, in his + speech, has a great many slips cut from the newspapers, and that + he must have had some sewing society of old ladies to cut out the + slips for him. I don't know how he found that out. I never told it, + and you know the ladies never tell secrets that are confided to + them. I hold in my hand a speech of Judge Thurman, from which I + have read extracts, and I find that he has in it slips cut from + more than twenty different prints, sermons, newspapers, old + speeches, and pamphlets, to show how, in the war of 1812, certain + Federalists uttered unpatriotic sentiments. I presume he must have + acquired his slips on that day in the way he says I acquired mine + now. + + Now, my friends, I propose to hold Judge Thurman to no severe rule + of accountability for his conduct during the war. I merely ask that + it shall be judged by his own rule: "Your country is engaged in + war, and it is the duty of every citizen to say nothing and do + nothing which shall depress the spirits of his own countrymen, + nothing that shall encourage the enemies of his country, or give + them moral aid or comfort." That is the rule. Now, Judge Thurman, + how does your conduct square with it? I do not propose to begin at + the beginning of the war, or even just before the war, to cite the + record of Judge Thurman. I am willing to say that perhaps men might + have been mistaken at that time. They might have supposed in the + beginning a conciliatory policy, a non-coercive policy, would in + some way avoid the threatened struggle. But I ask you to approach + the period when the war was going on, when armies to the number of + hundreds of thousands of men were ready on one side and the other, + and when the whole world knew what was the nature of the great + struggle going on in America. Taking the beginning of 1863, how + stands the conflict? We have pressed the rebellion out of Kentucky + and through Tennessee. Grant stands before Vicksburg, held at bay + by the army of Pemberton; Rosecranz, after the capture of + Nashville, has pressed forward to Murfreesboro, but is still held + out of East Tennessee by the army of Bragg. The army of the Potomac + and the army of Lee, in Virginia, are balanced, the one against the + other. The whole world knows that that exhausting struggle can not + last long without deciding in favor of one side or the other. That + the year 1863 is big with the fate of Union and of liberty, every + intelligent man in the world knows--that on one side it is a + struggle for nationality and human rights. There is not in all + Europe a petty despot who lives by grinding the masses of the + people, who does not know that Lincoln and the Union are his + enemies. There is not a friend of freedom in all Europe who does + not know that Lincoln and the loyal army are fighting in the cause + of free government for all the world. Now, in that contest, where + are you, Judge Thurman? It is a time when we need men and money, + when we need to have our people inspired with hope and confidence. + Your sons and brothers are in the field. Their success depends upon + your conduct at home. + + The men who are to advise you what to do have upon them a dreadful + responsibility to give you wise and patriotic advice. Judge + Thurman, in the speech I am quoting from, says: + + "But now, my friends, I shall not deal with obscure newspapers or + obscure men. What a private citizen like Allen G. Thurman may have + said in 1861 is a matter of indifference." + + Ah, no, Judge Thurman, the Union party does not propose to allow + your record to go without investigation because you are a private + citizen. I know you held no official position under the government + at the time I speak of; but, sir, you had for years been a leading, + able, and influential man in the great party which had often + carried your State. You were acting under grave responsibilities. + More than that, during that year 1863, you were more than a private + citizen. You were one of the delegates to the State convention of + that year; you were one of the committee that forms your party + platform in that convention; you were one of the central committee + that carries on the canvass in the absence of your + standard-bearers; and you were one of the orators of the party. No, + sir, you were not a private citizen in 1863. You were one of the + leading and one of the ablest men in your party in that year, + speaking through the months of July, August, September, and + October, in behalf of the candidate of the peace party. You can not + escape as a private citizen. + + Well, sir, in the beginning of that eventful year, there rises in + Congress the ablest member of the peace party, to advise Congress + and to advise the people, and what does he say? + + "You have not conquered the South. You never will. It is not in the + nature of things possible, especially under your auspices. Money + you have expended without limit; blood you have poured out like + water." + + Now, mark the taunt--the words of discouragement that were sent to + the people and to the army of the Union: + + "Defeat, debt, taxation, sepulchers--these are your trophies. Can + you get men to enlist now at any price?" + + Listen again to the words that were sent to the army and to the + loyal people: + + "Ah, sir, it is easier to die at home." + + We knew that, Judge Thurman, better than Mr. Vallandigham knew it. + We had seen our comrades falling and dying alone on the mountain + side and in the swamps--dying in the prison-pens of the Confederacy + and in the crowded hospitals, North and South. Yet he had the face + to stand up in Congress, and say to the people and the world, "Ah, + sir, it is easier to die at home." Judge Thurman, where are you at + this time? He goes to Columbus to the State convention, on the 11th + of June of that year, in all the capacities in which I have named + him--as a delegate, as committeeman, and as an orator--and he + spends that whole summer in advocating the election of the man who + taunted us with the words, "Defeat, debt, taxation, + sepulchers--these are your trophies." + + In every canvass you know there is a key-note. What was the + key-note of that canvass? Who sounded it? It came over to us from + Canada. On the 15th of July, 1863, Mr. Vallandigham wrote, + accepting the nomination of that convention of Judge Thurman's. He + said, in his letter: + + "If this civil war is to terminate only by the subjugation or + submission of the South to force and arms, the infant of to-day + will not live to see the end of it. No; in another way only can it + be brought to a close. Traveling a thousand miles and more, through + nearly half of the Confederate States, and sojourning for a time at + widely different points, I met not one man, woman, or child who was + not resolved to perish, rather than yield to the pressure of arms, + even in the most desperate extremity. And whatever may and must be + the varying fortune of the war, in all of which I recognize the + hand of Providence pointing visibly to the ultimate issue of this + great trial of the States and people of America, they are better + prepared now, every way, to make good their inexorable purpose than + at any period since the beginning of the struggle." + + That was the key-note of the campaign. It was the platform of the + candidate in behalf of whom Judge Thurman went through the State of + Ohio--all over the State--in July, August, and September, up to the + night of the 12th of October--making his last speech just + twenty-four hours before the glad news went out to all the world, + over the wires, that the people of Ohio had elected John Brough by + over one hundred thousand majority, in preference to the author of + the sentiment, "Defeat, debt, taxation, sepulchers." + + And how true was that sentiment which had been endorsed by the + peace party. I do not question the motives of men in any of my + speeches. I merely ask as to the facts. "Better prepared," said he, + "than ever before," on the 15th of July. On that theory, they went + through the canvass to the end. What was the fact? On the 15th of + July, 1863, Grant had captured Vicksburg. That gallant, glorious + son of Ohio, who perished afterward in the Atlanta campaign, and + whose honored remains now sleep near his old home on the lake + shore, General James B. McPherson, on the 4th of July, had ridden + at the head of a triumphant host into Vicksburg. On the 7th of + July, Banks had captured Port Hudson. A few days afterward, a party + of serenaders, calling upon Mr. Lincoln, saw that good man, who had + been bowed down with the weight and cares of office; they saw his + haggard face lit up with joy and cheer, and he said to them: "At + last, Grant is in Vicksburg. The Father of Waters, the Mississippi, + again flows unvexed to the sea." + + On the 15th of July, what else had happened? The army of Lee, + defiantly crowding up into Pennsylvania, and claiming to go where + it pleased, and take what it pleased, only doubting whether they + would first capture Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, or New + York, and concluding finally that it was a matter of military + strategy first to capture the Army of the Potomac--that army, which + had invaded Pennsylvania under such flattering auspices, was, on + the 15th of July, when Mr. Vallandigham's letter was written, + straggling back over the swollen waters of the Potomac, glad to + escape from the pursuing armies of the Union, with the loss of + thirty thousand of its bravest and best, killed, wounded, and + captured, and utterly unable ever after during the war to set foot + upon free soil except in such fragments as were captured by our + armies in subsequent battles. That was the condition of the two + great armies when Mr. Vallandigham uttered that sentiment; and on + that sentiment my friend, Judge Thurman, argued his case through + all that summer. + + But wisdom was not learned even at the close of 1863 by this peace + party. Things were greatly changed in the estimation of every loyal + man. We had now not merely got possession of the Mississippi + river--we had not merely driven the army of Lee out of + Pennsylvania, never again to return, but the battle of Mission + Ridge and the battle of Knoxville had been fought. That important + strategic region, East Tennessee, was now within our lines. From + that abode of loyalty, the mountain region of East Tennessee, we + could pierce to the very heart of the Southern Confederacy. We were + now in possession of the interior lines, giving us an immense + advantage, and we were in a condition to march southeast to Atlanta + and northeast to Richmond; yet with this changed state of affairs, + where is my friend Judge Thurman? Advising the people? What is he + advising them to do? He says Allen G. Thurman was a private + citizen. Not so. He held no official position, I know, under the + government. Fortunately for the people of this country, they were + not giving official positions in Ohio to men of his opinions and + sentiments at that time. [A voice, "They won't now, either."] But + he was made delegate at large from the State of Ohio to the + convention to meet at Chicago to nominate a president and form a + platform on which that nominee should stand. Mr. Vallandigham was a + district delegate and one of the committee to form a platform, and + he drew the most important resolution. The principal plank of that + platform is of his construction. You are perfectly familiar with + it. It merely told the people that the war had been for four years + a failure, and advised them to prepare to negotiate with this + Confederate nation on our Southern borders. Well, when this advice + was given to the Nation, we were still in the midst of the war, and + were prosecuting it with every prospect of success. What had been + accomplished in 1863 enabled us, with great advantages, to press + upon the rebellion. I remember well when I first read that + resolution declaring the war a four years' failure. It came to the + army in which I was serving on the same day that the news came to + us that Sherman had captured Atlanta. We heard of both together. + The war a four years' failure, said the Chicago convention. I well + remember how that evening our pickets shouted the good news to the + pickets of the enemy. What good news? News that a convention + representing nearly one-half of the people of the North had + concluded that the war was a failure? No such news was shouted from + our-picket line. The good news that they shouted was that Sherman + had captured Atlanta. + + This, my friends, is a part of that record which we are invited to + examine by my friend Judge Thurman. I ask you to apply to it the + principle that whoever, during the great struggle, was unfaithful + to the cause of the country is not to be trusted to be one of the + men to harvest and secure the legitimate fruits of the victory, + which the Union people and the Union army won during the rebellion. + In the great struggle in 1863 in Ohio, I had not an opportunity to + hear the eloquent voice of John Brough, which I knew stirred the + hearts of the people like the sound of a trumpet, but I read, as + occasion offered, his speeches, and I saw not one in which he did + not warn the young men--warn the Democrats of Ohio--that if they + remained through that struggle opposed to this country, the conduct + particularly of leading men would never be forgotten, and never + forgiven. Now, in this canvass, I merely have to ask the people to + remember the prediction of honest John Brough, and see that that + prediction is made good. + + It is not worth while now to consider, or undertake to predict, + when we shall cease to talk of the records of those men. It does + seem to me that it will, for many years to come, be the voice of + the Union people of the State that for a man who as a leader--as a + man having control in political affairs--that for such a man who + has opposed the interests of his country during the war, "the post + of honor is the private station." When shall we stop talking about + it? When ought we to stop talking about that record, when leading + men come before the people? Certainly not until every question + arising out of the rebellion, and every question which is akin to + the questions which made the rebellion, is settled. Perhaps these + men will be remembered long after these questions are settled; + perhaps their conduct will long be remembered. What was the result + of this advice to the people? It prolonged the war; it made it + impossible to get recruits; it made it necessary that we should + have drafts. They opposed the drafts, and that made rioting, which + required that troops should be called from all the armies in the + field, to preserve the peace at home. From forty to a hundred + thousand men in the different States of this Union were kept within + the loyal States to preserve the peace at home. And now, when they + talk to you about the debt and about the burden of taxation, + remember how it happened that the war was so prolonged, that it was + so expensive, and that the debt grew to such large proportions. + + There are other things, too, to be remembered. I recollect that at + the close of the last session of Congress, I went over to + Arlington, the estate formerly of Robert E. Lee, and I saw there + the great National cemetery into which that beautiful place has + been converted. I saw the graves of 18,000 Union soldiers, marked + with white head-boards, denoting the name of each occupant, and his + regiment and company. Passing over those broad acres, covered with + the graves of the loyal men who had died in defense of their + country, I came upon that which was even more touching than these + 18,000 head-boards. I found a large granite, with this inscription + upon it: + + "Beneath this stone repose the remains of two thousand one hundred + and eleven unknown soldiers, gathered, after the war, from the + field of Bull Run and the route to the Rappahannock. Their remains + could not be identified, but their names and deaths are recorded in + the archives of their country, and its grateful citizens honor them + as of their noble army of martyrs. May they rest in peace. + September, 1866." + + I say to those men who were instrumental and prominent in + prolonging the war, by opposing it, that when honeyed words and + soft phrases can erase from the enduring granite inscriptions like + these, the American people may forget their conduct; but I believe + they will not do so until some such miracle is accomplished. + + That is all I desire to say this afternoon upon the record of the + peace party of Ohio. A few words upon another topic that is much + discussed in this canvass, and that is the proposed amendment to + the constitution of the State of Ohio. At the beginning, I desire + to say, that there may be no misunderstanding--and I suppose there + is no misunderstanding upon that subject--that I am in favor of the + adoption of that amendment, and I trust that every Union man, and + every Democrat too, will vote for it next October. And why do I say + this? Let us discuss it a moment. It consists of four parts. + First, it disfranchises any man who becomes a resident of the State + of Ohio, or who was a citizen of Ohio, who fought in the rebellion + against the country. Isn't that right? If you want that to go into + your constitution, vote for the amendment. It disfranchises every + man who, being liable to the draft, when the country needed them at + the front--when the soldiers doing their duty at the front were + anxiously looking for their aid--it disfranchises every man who, at + such time, ran away to escape the draft. Isn't that right? In the + next place, it disfranchises every man who deserted his comrades at + the front, and ran away to vote the peace party ticket at the rear. + Isn't that right? It disfranchises him whether he voted that ticket + or not, I may observe. If you want these provisions in your State + constitution, vote for the amendment. In the next place, it gives + the right of suffrage to all the negroes of Ohio. Mark the phrase: + I have not said impartial suffrage or manhood suffrage. I wish to + be understood. It gives the suffrage to the negroes of Ohio upon + the same terms that it is given to white men. The reason I am in + favor of that is because it is right. + + Let me have the ears of my Democratic friends on that question a + moment. If Democracy has any meaning now that is good--any + favorable meaning--it is that Democracy is a government of the + people, by the people, and for the people. It is a government in + which every man who has to obey the laws has a part in making the + laws, unless disqualified by crime. Then the proposition I am for + is a Democratic proposition. Again, it is according to the + principles upon which good men have always desired to see our + institutions placed, namely, that all men are entitled to equal + rights before the law. They are not equal in any other respect. + Nobody claims that they are. But we propose to give to each man the + same rights which you want for yourself. It is, in short, obeying + the rule of the Great Teacher: "Do unto others as ye would that + others should do unto you." Abraham Lincoln said: "No man is good + enough to govern another without that other man's consent." Is not + that true? Good as you think you are, are you good enough + absolutely to govern another man without that other man's consent? + If you really think so, just change shoes with that other man, and + see if you are willing to be governed yourself, without your + consent, by somebody else. The declaration of independence says + governments derive their just powers from the consent of the + governed. Now, don't you see there is no way by which one man can + give consent to be governed by another man in a republican + government except by the ballot? There is no way provided by which + you can consent to give powers to a government except by the + ballot. Therefore every man governed under our system is entitled + to the ballot. + + So much for principle. One word now as to why our Democratic + friends oppose it. I remember their opposing the extension of + suffrage once under circumstances that made many of us think they + were doing wrong. During the years 1861, 1862, 1863, and 1864, I + was a citizen of the Fifteenth ward, in Cincinnati; I had lived + there ever since it was a ward. All the property I had in the world + was taxed there, real or personal; and there was a party in Ohio of + loyal Union men, who said I and others who were with me ought to + have a right to vote, although I was not in the Fifteenth ward, but + was serving the country in the field against the rebels. The + Democratic party in Ohio--these very peace men--said no. Why did + they say I should not vote? I never heard but one good reason, and + that was the apprehension they had that if the soldiers did vote, + they wouldn't vote the Democratic ticket. That's what's the matter. + Now, I suspect we have the same difficulty on this proposition; I + suspect that the real trouble is that they fear if the colored man + has a vote, they have dealt so hardly with him these last few years + that when he comes to vote he will vote against the Democratic + party. That's what's the matter. Why, for the sake of political + power, these Democrats of Ohio have not been unwilling to look + kindly toward the colored man. Do you remember we once had black + laws in Ohio which kept the colored men out of the State? Who + repealed those laws? Why did they do it? The Democratic party did + it, because they could get political power by it. I suspect that if + it were quite certain that the colored vote would elect Allen G. + Thurman Governor of Ohio, our Democratic friends would not object + to it at all. What, then, do I say to the Union men? This objection + may be very good for the Democrats, but it is not a wise one for + you. + + I commend to you Union men who are a little weak on this question, + or perhaps I should say a little strong, the example of the Union + men of the country during the war. Abraham Lincoln thought, in + 1862, it was wise to proclaim freedom to the slaves. Many good + Union men thought it was unwise--thought Mr. Lincoln was going too + far or too fast--but the sequel justified the wisdom of Abraham + Lincoln. Again, he thought it was wise that colored men should be + placed in our armies. There were good soldiers and good Union men + who thought it was unwise. They feared that Mr. Lincoln was going + too fast or too far, but events justified it. Now, everybody agrees + that in both cases Abraham Lincoln was right. Now, the example I + commend to our Union friends who are doubting on this great + question is the example of those Union men during the war who + doubted the wisdom of these other measures. Greatly as they were + opposed to the proclamation of Abraham Lincoln, strongly as they + were opposed to the enlistment of colored soldiers, I say to you I + never heard of one good Union man, in the army or out of it, who + left his party because of that difference with Mr. Lincoln. I + commend that example to the Union men who now doubt about colored + suffrage. The truth is, that every step made in advance toward the + standard of the right has in the event always proved a safe and + wise step. Every step toward the right has proved a step toward the + expedient; in short, that in politics, in morals, in public and + private life, the right is always expedient. + + I thank you, fellow-citizens, for your kind attention. + + +_Speech of_ GOVERNOR HAYES, _on his re-nomination, delivered June 23, +1869._ + + Twice since the organization of existing political parties the + people of Ohio have trusted the law-making power of the State in + the hands of the Democratic party. They first tried the experiment + twelve years ago, and such were the results that ten years elapsed + before they ventured upon a repetition of it. Two years ago, in a + time of reaction, which was general throughout the country, the + Democratic party, by a minority of the popular vote, having large + advantages in the apportionment, obtained complete control of the + legislature in both of its branches. They came into power, + proclaiming that the past ought to be forgotten; that old issues + and divisions should be laid aside; that new ideas and new measures + required attention; and they were particularly emphatic and earnest + in declaring that the enormous burdens of debt and taxation under + which the people were struggling made retrenchment and economy the + supreme duty of the hour. + + These were their promises, and the manner in which they were kept + is now before the people for their judgment. Disregarding the + well-known and solemnly-expressed will of Ohio, they began the + business of their first session by passing fruitless resolutions to + rescind the ratification of the 14th amendment to the constitution + of the United States. + + They placed on the statute book visible admixture bills, to deprive + citizens of the right of suffrage--a constitutional right long + enjoyed and perfectly well settled by repeated decisions of the + highest court having jurisdiction of the question. + + They repealed the law allowing, after the usual residence, the + disabled veterans of the Union army to vote in the township in + which the National Soldiers' Home is situated; and enacted a law + designed to deprive of the right of suffrage a large number of + young men engaged in acquiring an education at "any school, + seminary, academy, college, university, or other institution of + learning." To prevent citizens who were deprived of their + constitutional rights by these acts from obtaining prompt relief in + the Supreme Court, they passed a law prohibiting that court from + taking up causes on its docket according to its own judgment of + what was demanded by public justice, in any case "except where the + person seeking relief had been convicted of murder in the first + degree, or of a crime the punishment of which was confinement in + the penitentiary." + + I believe it is the general judgment of the people of Ohio that the + passage of these measures, unconstitutional as some of them are, + and unjust as they all are, was mainly due to the fact that the + classes of citizens disfranchised by them do not commonly vote with + the Democratic party. The Republican party condemns all such + legislation, and demands its repeal. + + On the important subject of suffrage, General Grant, in his + inaugural message, expresses the convictions of the Republican + party. He says: "The question of suffrage is one which is likely + to agitate the public so long as a portion of the citizens of the + Nation are excluded from its privileges in any State. It seems to + me very desirable that this question should be settled now, and I + entertain the hope and express the desire that it may be by the + ratification of the fifteenth amendment to the constitution." + + During the canvass which resulted in the election of the late + Democratic legislature the Republicans were charged with having + used $800,000, raised for the relief of soldiers' families, to pay + the State debt, and this charge was insisted upon, notwithstanding + a majority of the Democratic members had supported the measure. The + idea was everywhere held out that if the Democratic party were + successful this money would be restored to the relief fund and + expended for the benefit of the soldiers. The failure to redeem + this pledge is aggravated by the fact that the legislature, by a + strictly party vote in the Senate, refused to provide for the + support of soldiers' destitute orphans at homes to be established + without expense to the State by the voluntary contributions of + patriotic and charitable people. + + But of all the pledges upon which the Democratic party obtained + power in the last legislature, the most important, and those in + regard to which the just expectations of the people have been most + signally disappointed, are their pledges in relation to financial + affairs--to expenditure, to debt, and to taxation. Upon this + subject the people are compelled to feel a very deep interest. The + flush times of the war have been followed by a financial reaction, + and for the last three or four years the country has been on the + verge of a financial crisis. The burdens of taxation bear heavily + upon labor and upon capital. The Democratic party, profuse alike of + accusations against their adversaries, and of promises of + retrenchment and reform, were clothed with power to deal with the + heaviest part of these burdens, viz: with the expenditures, debts, + assessments, and taxes which are authorized by State legislation. + The results of their two years of power are now before the people. + They are contained in the 65th and 66th volumes of the Laws of + Ohio. Let any Republican diligently study these volumes, and he + will fully comprehend the meaning of Job when he said, "Oh, that + mine adversary had written a book." No intelligent man can read + carefully these volumes, and note the number and character of the + laws increasing the expenses and liabilities of the State and + authorizing additional debts and additional taxation for city and + village, for county and township purposes, without having the + conviction forced upon him that the gentlemen who enacted these + laws hold to the opinion that the way to increase wealth is to + increase taxation, and that public debts are public blessings. + + When the late Democratic Legislature assembled they found the + revenue raised yearly in Ohio by taxation to pay the interest on + the State and local debts and for State and local expenditures was + $20,253,615.34. This is at the rate of almost forty dollars for + every vote cast in the State at the last election, and exceeds + seven dollars for each inhabitant of the State. Of this large sum + collected annually by direct taxation less than one-fifth or + $3,981,099.79 was for State purposes, and more than four-fifths or + $16,272,515.34 was for local purposes. The increase of taxation for + State purposes during the last few years has been small, but many + items of taxation for local purposes are increasing rapidly. The + taxation, for example, in the thirty-three cities of the State has + increased until, according to the report of the auditor of State, + "in several the rates of levy exceed three per cent, and the + average rate in all is but little short of three per cent." In this + condition of the financial affairs of the State, and in the + embarrassed and depressed condition of the business of the country, + the duty of the legislature was plain. They were to see that no + unnecessary additional burdens were imposed upon the people--that + all wholesome restraints and limitations upon the power of local + authorities to incur debts and levy taxes should be preserved and + enforced, and especially that no increase of liabilities should be + authorized except in cases of pressing necessity. + + Now consider the facts. These gentlemen professed to be + scrupulously strict in their observance of the requirements of the + constitution. Yet under provisions which contemplate one + legislative session in two years they held two sessions in the same + year, and three sessions in their term of two years. They were in + session two hundred and sixty days--longer than was ever before + known in Ohio, and at an expense of $250,624.10--more than double + that of their Republican predecessors. + + They created between thirty and forty new offices at a cost to the + people for salaries, fees, and expenses of at least $75,000 per + annum. They added to the State liabilities for various purposes + about $1,500,000. In order to avoid an increase of taxes levied for + State purposes they diminished the sum levied to pay the State + debt, and increased the levy for other State purposes almost + $600,000. + + The acts of the last legislature in relation to local debts and + local taxes are of the most extraordinary character. These acts + relate to raising money for county purposes, for township purposes, + for city and village purposes, and for special purposes. These + taxes or debts are levied or incurred under the direction of county + commissioners, township trustees, or of city or village councils, + who derive their authority exclusively from State legislation. The + State legislature has therefore the control of the whole matter. + Now, the general statement which I wish to make, and which I + believe is sustained by the facts, is, that the late Democratic + legislature authorized greater local pecuniary burdens to be + imposed upon the people of Ohio, without their consent, than were + ever before authorized by any General Assembly, either in peace or + war, since the organization of our State government. + + Sixty or seventy different acts were passed authorizing debts to be + contracted, amounting in the aggregate to more than $25,000,000. A + large part of them bear eight per cent interest, and a very small + part bear less than seven and three-tenths per cent interest. And + they passed seventy or eighty acts by which additional taxes were + authorized to the amount of over $10,000,000. + + Now it is to be hoped, as to a considerable part of the local debts + and local taxes authorized by the late Democratic legislature, that + the people will not be burdened with them. It is to be hoped that + county commissioners, city councils, and other local boards, will + show greater moderation and economy in the exercise of their + dangerous and oppressive powers under the laws than was exhibited + in their enactment. But in any event, nothing is more certain than + that the people of Ohio have great reason to apprehend that the + evil consequences of these laws will be felt in their swollen tax + bills for many years. + + It is probable that many of the acts to which I have alluded, + creating additional offices, incurring State liabilities, and + authorizing local debts and taxes were required by sound policy. + But a candid investigation will show that the larger part of these + enormous burdens of expenditure, debt, and taxation could and ought + to have been avoided. + + The last legislature afforded examples of many of the worst evils + to which legislative bodies are liable--long sessions, excessive + legislation, unnecessary expenditures, and recklessness in + authorizing local debts and local taxes. These evils "have + increased, are increasing, and ought to be diminished." Let there + be reform as to all of them. Especially let the people of all + parties insist that the parent evil--long legislative + sessions--shall be reformed altogether. Let the bad precedent of + long sessions, set by the last legislature, be condemned, and the + practice of short sessions established. With the average rate of + taxation in the cities and large towns of the State--nearly three + per cent.--legitimate business and industry can not continue to + thrive, if the rate of taxation continues to increase. With the + rates of interest for public debts ranging from seven and + three-tenths per cent to eight per cent, the reckless increase of + such debts must stop, or will seriously affect the prosperity of + the State. These are subjects which deserve, and which, I trust, + will receive, the profound attention of the people in the pending + canvass. + + It is said that one of the ablest Democratic members of the last + legislature declared at its close that "enough had been done to + keep the Democratic party out of power in Ohio for twenty years." + Let the Republican press and the Republican speakers see to it that + the history of the acts of that body be spread fully before the + people, and I entertain no doubt that the declaration will be + substantially made good. + + It is probable that the discussions of the present canvass will + turn more upon State legislation and less upon National affairs + than those of any year since 1861. Neither senators nor + representatives in Congress are to be chosen. But it is an + important State election, and will be regarded as having a bearing + on National politics. The Republicans of Ohio heartily approve of + the principles of General Grant's inaugural message, and are + gratified by the manner in which he is dealing with the leading + questions of the first three months of his administration. + + Under President Johnson, Secretary McCulloch hoarded millions of + gold, to enable him to maintain a wretched rivalry with the gold + gamblers of New York city. The Nation was defrauded of its just + dues, and the National debt increased from November 1, 1867, to + November 1, 1868, $35,625,102.82. General Grant began his financial + policy by revoking his predecessor's pardons of revenue robbers, + and by cutting down expenses in all directions; and Secretary + Boutwell disposes of surplus gold in the purchase of + interest-bearing bonds to the amount of two millions a week, and in + his first quarter reduces the National debt more than twenty + millions of dollars. + + The two Democratic Johnsons, Andrew and Reverdy, furnished their + ideas of a foreign policy in the Johnson-Clarendon treaty. They + undertook to settle the American claims against England on account + of the Alabama outrage by the award of a Commission, one-half of + whose members were to be chosen by England and the other half by + the United States; and, in case of a disagreement, an umpire was to + be chosen by lot. That is to say, a great National controversy, + involving grave questions of international law, and claims of + undoubted validity, amounting to millions of money, was to be + decided by the toss of a copper! The administration of General + Grant crushed the disgraceful treaty, and proposes to deal with + England on the principle laid down in General Grant's inaugural. + The United States will treat all other Nations "as equitable law + requires individuals to deal with each other;" but, "if others + depart from this rule in their dealings with us, we may be + compelled to follow their precedent." + + On the great question of reconstruction, in what a masterly way and + with what marked success has General Grant's administration begun. + Congress had fixed its day of adjournment, and all plans for + reconstructing the three unrepresented States had been postponed + until next December. At this junction General Grant, on the 7th of + April last, sent to Congress a special message recommending that + before its adjournment it take the necessary steps for the + restoration of the State of Virginia to its proper relations to the + Union. As the ground of his recommendation he said: "I am led to + make this recommendation from the confident hope and belief that + the people of that State are now ready to co-operate with the + National government in bringing it again into such relations to the + Union as it ought as soon as possible to establish and maintain, + and to give to all its people those equal rights under the law + which were asserted in the declaration of independence, in the + words of one of the most illustrious of its sons." + + The message of the president was referred, in the House of + Representatives, to the Committee on Reconstruction. That committee + the next day reported a bill for the reconstruction of Virginia, + and also of Mississippi and Texas. The character of the bill + sufficiently appears by the first two sections relating to + Virginia: + + "_Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the + United States of America in Congress assembled_, That the President + of the United States, at such time as he may deem best for the + public interest, may submit the constitution which was framed by + the convention which met in Richmond, Virginia, on Tuesday, the 3d + day of December, 1867, to the registered voters of said State, for + ratification or rejection; and may also submit to a separate vote + such provisions of said constitution as he may deem best. + + "SEC. 2. _And be it further enacted_, That at the same election the + voters of said State may vote for and elect members of the General + Assembly of said State and all the officers of said State provided + for by the said constitution, and for members of Congress; and the + officer commanding the district of Virginia shall cause the lists + of registered voters of said State to be revised and corrected + prior to such election, and for that purpose may appoint such + registrars as he may deem necessary. And said election shall be + held and returns thereof made in the manner provided by the + election ordinance adopted by the convention which framed said + constitution." + + It will be seen that by this bill the people of Virginia were to + proceed in the work of reconstruction at such time as the president + might deem best, and that such reconstruction in all its parts was + to be on the basis of equal political rights. The constitution to + be submitted was framed by a convention, in the election of which + colored citizens participated, and of which colored men were + members. The "registered voters" who are to vote on its + ratification or rejection, and also for members of the General + Assembly, for State officers and for members of Congress, include + the colored men of Virginia; and if the constitution is adopted, it + secures to them equal political rights in that State. The + remaining sections of the bill provide for the reconstruction of + Mississippi and Texas on the same principles, and left the time and + manner to the discretion of the president. + + This bill was reported to the House of Representatives and + unanimously agreed upon by a committee, of which four members were + Democrats. The most distinguished Democratic representatives of the + States of New York and Pennsylvania advocated its passage. Out of + about seventy Democratic members of the House, only twenty-five + voted against it, and the only Democratic members from Ohio who + voted on the passage of the bill, voted for it. + + It thus appears that upon the recommendation of General Grant even + the Democratic party of Ohio, by their representatives in Congress, + voted for equal political rights in Virginia, Mississippi, and + Texas! And to-day the great body of the people of those States, + Democrats and Conservatives as well as Republicans, have yielded + assent to that great principle. In view of these facts I submit + that I am fully warranted in saying that General Grant has begun + the work of reconstruction in a masterly way and with marked + success. + + Again thanking you for the honor you have done me, I repeat, in + conclusion, what I said two years ago. The people represented in + this convention mean that the State of Ohio in the great progress, + "whose leading object is to elevate the condition of men, to lift + artificial weights from all shoulders, to clear the paths of + laudable pursuits for all, and to afford all an unfettered start + and a fair chance in the race of life," shall tread no more steps + backward. I shall enter upon my part of the labors of the canvass + believing that the Union Republican party is battling for the + right, and with undoubting confidence that the goodness of the + cause will supply the weakness of its advocates, and command in the + result that triumphant success which it deserves. + + +_Speech of_ GENERAL R. B. HAYES, _delivered at Zanesville, Ohio, +Thursday, August 24, 1871._ + + The change of principles which a majority of the late Democratic + State Convention at Columbus decided to make, commonly called the + new departure, lends to the pending political contest in Ohio its + chief interest. Indeed, there is no other salient feature in the + Democratic platform. Resolutions in the usual form were adopted on + several other political topics; but the main discussion, and the + absorbing interest of the convention, was on the question of + accepting as a finality the series of Republican measures which is + generally regarded as the natural and legitimate result of the + overthrow of the rebellion, and which is embodied in the last three + amendments to the constitution. + + Certain influential Democratic leaders in Ohio had become satisfied + by the repeated defeats of their party that no considerable number + of Republicans would ever aid the Democratic party to obtain power + until it fully and explicitly accepted in good faith, as a final + settlement of the questions involved, the leading Republican + measures resulting from the war. They were convinced that + Republicans generally regarded these measures of such vital + importance that, until they were irrevocably established, other and + minor questions would not be allowed to divide that great body of + patriotic people who rallied together in support of the government + during its struggle for existence. The important principles which + Republicans claim should be accepted as settled are: + + 1. That the National power is the Supreme power of the land, and + that the doctrine that the States are in any proper sense + sovereign, including as it does the right of nullification and + secession, is no longer to be maintained. + + 2. That all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and + subject to their jurisdiction, are citizens thereof, and entitled + to equal rights, civil and political, without regard to race, + color, or condition. + + 3. That the public debt resulting from the war is of binding + obligation, and must be fully and honestly paid. + + Mr. Vallandigham, with that boldness and energy for which he was + distinguished, undertook the task of forcing his party to take the + position required to make success possible in Ohio. In this work, + he was encouraged, and probably aided, by the counsel and advice of + that other eminent Democratic leader, Chief Justice Chase. The + first authentic announcement of the new movement in Ohio was made + by the Montgomery County Democratic Convention, held at Dayton, on + the 18th day of May last. The speech and resolutions of Mr. + Vallandigham in that body contained much sound Republicanism. He + still clung to a general assertion of the State rights heresy, but + accepted the last three constitutional amendments "as a settlement, + in fact, of all the issues of the war," and "pledged" the + Democratic party to the faithful and absolute enforcement of the + constitution as it now is, "so as to secure equal rights to all + persons, without distinction of race, color, or condition." On the + subject of the National debt, and of currency, he was equally + explicit. He declared "in favor of the payment of the public debt + at the earliest practicable moment consistent with moderate + taxation; that specie is the basis of all sound currency; and that + true policy requires a speedy return to that basis as soon as + practicable without distress to the debtor class of people." + + Surely, here was a long stride away from the Democracy of the last + ten years, and toward wholesome Republican ideas. If a Democratic + victory could be gained by adopting Republican principles, the + framer of the Dayton platform was not lacking in political + sagacity. Unfortunately for the success of the scheme, no Ohio + Democrat of conspicuous position, except Mr. Chase, is known to + have approved Mr. Vallandigham's resolutions as a whole. The chief + justice wrote to Mr. Vallandigham the well-known letter of May 20, + in which he warmly congratulated him on the movement which was to + return "the Democratic party to its ancient platform of progress + and reform." + + This was perfectly consistent with the previous opinions and public + conduct of Mr. Chase. He had supported the three amendments to the + constitution, and notwithstanding the censure of his Democratic + associates, he had been signally active and influential in + procuring the ratification by Ohio of the fifteenth amendment. In + addition to this, he was probably the only prominent Western + Democrat who was for the payment of the public debt in coin, and + in favor of a speedy return to specie payments. + + When the convention assembled, on the first of June, neither the + talents and energy of Mr. Vallandigham nor the great name and + authority of the chief justice were sufficient to carry through, in + all its parts, the Dayton programme. The financial resolutions were + stricken out and the oft-defeated greenback theory, slightly + modified, was inserted in its place. Other important paragraphs of + Mr. Vallandigham were also omitted, in which "secession, slavery, + inequality before the law, and political inequality" were described + as "belonging to the dead past" and "buried out of sight." This + left as the new departure two resolutions, which were adopted only + after strong opposition. + + "1. _Resolved, by the Democracy of Ohio_, That denouncing the + extraordinary means by which they were brought about, we recognize + as accomplished facts the three several amendments to the + constitution, recently adopted, and regard the same as no longer + political issues before the country. + + "2.... The Democratic party pledges itself to the full, faithful, + and absolute enforcement of the constitution as it now is, so as to + secure equal rights to all persons under it, without distinction of + race, color, or condition." + + The Democratic managers claim that by this movement they have taken + such a position that, at least equally with the Republicans, they + are entitled to the confidence and support of the early and earnest + friends of the principles of the three recent constitutional + amendments. They claim at the same time, in the same breath, that + they are entitled also to the confidence of the Democratic people + whom they have hitherto taught that the amendments were ratified by + force and fraud; that they are revolutionary and void, and that + they are a dangerous departure from the principles of the fathers + of the republic, and destructive of all good government. + + Now, the important question presented is, whether it is safe and + wise to trust these amendments for interpretation, construction, + and execution to the party which, from first to last, has fiercely + opposed them. The safe rule is, if you want a law fairly and + faithfully administered, entrust power only to its friends. It will + rarely have a fair trial at the hands of its enemies. These + amendments are no exception to this rule. + + What the country most needs, and what good citizens most desire in + regard to these great measures is peace--repose. They wish to be + able to rest confidently in the belief that they are to be enforced + and obeyed. They do not want them overthrown by revolutionary + violence or defeated by fraud. They do not wish them repealed by + constitutional amendments, abrogated by judicial construction, + nullified by unfriendly legislation, State or National, or left a + dead letter by non-action on the part of law-makers or executive + officers. Has the time come when the country can afford to trust + the Democratic party on these questions? Consider the facts. + + The new departure is by no means generally accepted by the + Democratic party, and where accepted the conversion is sudden and + recent, and against the protest of a large element of sincere and + inflexible Democrats. + + The only State touching the borders of Ohio which has been reliably + Democratic for the last five years is Kentucky. She sends to + Congress an undivided Democratic delegation of two senators and + nine representatives. At the late election, notwithstanding the + heroic efforts of her Republicans under the splendid leadership of + General Harlan, the Democratic organs are able to rejoice that they + still hold the State by from thirty to forty thousand majority. + Where did the Democrats of Kentucky, in their canvass, stand on the + new departure? They marched in the old Democratic path. They turned + no back somersault to catch Republican votes. On the very day that + the Ohio Democracy were wrangling in convention over the bitter + dose, Governor Leslie, addressing the Democracy of Lewis county, + said: "As to the new amendments, I am out and out opposed to them. + I care not who in Indiana, Ohio, or elsewhere may be for them. + Those amendments were engrafted upon the constitution of the + country, and proclaimed to the country as part and parcel of the + constitution by force and by fraud, and not in the legitimate way + laid down in the constitution. Ten States of this Union were tied + hand and foot, and bayonets were presented to their breasts to make + them consent against their will to the passage of these amendments. + The procuring of these amendments was a fraud upon this people, and + upon the people of the whole United States, and having been thus + obtained, I hold that they ought to be repealed. There may be some + Democrats who are not for their repeal, but the great body of our + party is for it." + + The Democratic candidate for lieutenant-governor, Mr. Carlisle, was + equally decided. Said he: "In the first place, I do not think that + the resolution passed by the Ohio Democracy, declaring that these + constitutional amendments are no longer political issues before the + country, will have the effect which they appear to have supposed it + would. + + "Instead of withdrawing them as subjects of political discussion, + it will give them far more prominence than they ever had + heretofore, and they will be confronted with them throughout the + entire canvass. The only way in which any question can be withdrawn + from the arena of political discussion is for both parties to + ignore it altogether. + + "This can not be done as to these amendments, because they present + real living issues, in which the people feel a very deep interest. + They are not dead issues, and politicians can not kill them by + resolutions. The Ohio Democrats seem to recognize this to some + extent at least, for they have simply attempted to turn the + discussion away from the validity and merits of the amendments + themselves to the question of their construction. In this I think + they have made a grievous mistake." + + In Indiana, the last authoritative Democratic utterance on this + subject, was the passage, in January last, by the Senate of that + State, of the following resolution, offered by Mr. Hughes, every + Democrat supporting it: + + "_Resolved_, That Congress has no lawful power derived from the + constitution of the United States, nor from any other source + whatever, to require any State of the Union to ratify an amendment + proposed to the constitution of the United States as a condition + precedent to representation in Congress; that all such acts of + ratification are null and void, and the votes so obtained ought not + to be counted to affect the rights of the people and the States of + the whole Union, and that the State of Indiana protests and + solemnly declares that the so-called fifteenth amendment is not + this day, nor never has been in law, a part of the constitution of + the United States." + + It is not necessary to go to neighboring States for Democratic + authorities, to show how far the new departure is from modern + Democracy. + + When this question was last debated before the people of Ohio, the + Democratic position on the principle of the fifteenth amendment, + and on its constitutional validity, if _declared_ adopted, was thus + stated: + + Speaking of the principle of the amendment, Judge Thurman said: "I + tell you it is only the entering wedge that will destroy all + intelligent suffrage in this country, and turn our country from an + intelligent white man's government into one of the most corrupt + mongrel governments in the world." + + On its validity, if declared adopted, General Ward said: + "Fellow-citizens of Ohio, I boldly assert that the States of this + Union have always had, both before and since the adoption of the + constitution of the United States, entire sovereignty over the + whole subject of suffrage in all its relations and bearings. Ohio + has that sovereignty now, and it can not be taken from her without + her consent, even by all the other States combined, except by + revolutionary usurpation. The right to regulate suffrage as to the + organization of its own government, and the election of officers + under it, is an inalienable attribute of sovereignty, which the + State could not surrender without surrendering its sovereign + existence as a State. To take from Ohio the power of determining + who shall exercise the right of suffrage is not an amendment of the + constitution, but a revolutionary usurpation by the other States, + in no wise constitutionally binding upon her sovereignty as a + State." + + These opinions are still largely prevalent in the Democratic party. + When a new departure was announced at Dayton, the leading organ of + the party in this State said: + + "There are matters in the Montgomery county resolutions which, it + is very safe to say, will not receive the approval of the State + convention, and which should not receive its endorsement. They have + faults of omission and commission. They evince a desire to sail + with the wind, and as near the water as possible without getting + wet. The Democracy everywhere believe that the constitution was + altered by fraud and force, and do not intend to be mealy-mouthed + in their expression of the outrage, whatever they may agree upon as + to how the amendments should be treated in the future, for the sake + of saving, if possible, what is left of constitutional liberty." + + After the scheme was adopted in convention, the common sentiment + was well expressed by the editor who said that "the platform was + made for present use, and is marked with the taint of insincerity." + + The speeches of Colonel McCook and other Democratic gentlemen + exhibit, when carefully read, clearly enough the character of the + new departure. + + In accepting his nomination, Colonel McCook said: "Let me speak now + upon the fifteenth amendment, which confers the right of suffrage + upon the blacks. It was no legitimate consequence of the war; it + was no legitimate consequence of secession; but it was passed in + the exigency of a political party, that they might have control as + much in Ohio as in those States in the South. I opposed it, as I + did the fourteenth, from the beginning, and I have no regrets over + that opposition. But now a word more upon it. If it contained + nothing but this provision for suffrage there would be but little + objection in it; but it contains a provision intended to confer + power upon Congress which is dangerous to the liberties of the + country, and the dangers can only be avoided by having Democratic + Congresses in the future, who will trust no power to the executive + which bears the purse and sword to interfere with our elections." + + When interrogated on this subject at Chardon, he said: "When he + received the nomination he had said that no black man who had + received the right to vote under the 15th amendment ever could have + it taken away. Repealing the 15th amendment would not take it away; + that amendment is no more sacred, but just as sacred as any other + part of the constitution; but repealing it could not take away a + right." He was asked as to the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments: "Do + you regard them as in the same sense and to the same extent parts + of the constitution as other portions?" He answered: "Yes, + certainly. Can not men see the difference between opposing the + adoption of a measure and yielding when it has been adopted, and + opposition has become useless?" He was asked: "Are these amendments + never again to become political questions?" "I have no authority or + power to answer such a question. How can I answer as to all the + future? How can I tell what the Democracy of New York or any other + State may do? But how can they become political questions, now that + they are acquiesced in by almost the entire people of the country?" + + Mr. Hubbard, the chairman of Colonel McCook's first meeting, said: + "The Democrats did not dispute that this amendment, which was + adopted by constitutional forms, was valid; but, while accepting + it, call it a 'new departure.' If you please, we don't surrender + the right to make such returns to the old constitution as we may + deem expedient. It is a future question that we are not bound to + discuss." + + The gentleman who has the second place on the Democratic ticket, + Mr. Hunt, says: "There is no reasoning, and certainly no + circumstance, which can give the 13th amendment more binding force + than either of the other two amendments. If the 13th amendment + abolished slavery, then the title to vote under the 15th amendment + is as perfect as the title to liberty. The fact that they have been + declared a part of the constitution does not preclude any + legitimate discussion as to their expediency. Proper action will + never be barred, for the statute of limitation will run with the + constitution itself. Experience may teach the necessity of a change + in any provision of the organic law, and any legislation to be + permanent must conform to the living sentiment of the people." + + These paragraphs furnish no adequate reply to the questions which + an intelligent and earnest Republican, who believes in the wisdom + and value of the amendments, would put to these distinguished + gentlemen, when they ask him for his vote. He would ask: "If the + Democratic party shall obtain the controlling power in the general + government, in its several departments, executive, legislative, and + judicial, and in the State governments, what would it do? Would it + faithfully execute these amendments, or would it not rather use its + power to get rid of them--either by constitutional amendment, by + judicial decision, by unfriendly legislation, or by a failure or + refusal to legislate?" Before the "new departure" can gain + Republican votes, its friends must answer satisfactorily these + questions. The speeches I have quoted fail to furnish such answers. + Colonel McCook objects to the 15th amendment, because "it contains + a provision intended to confer power upon Congress which is + dangerous to the liberties of the country." Now, what is this + dangerous provision? It reads: "Section 2. The Congress shall have + power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation." Each of + the three recent amendments contains a similar provision. Without + this provision, they would be inoperative in more than half of the + late rebel States. The complaints made of these provisions warn us + that in Democratic hands the legislation required to give force and + effect to these provisions would be denied. + + But the most significant part of these speeches are the passages + which refer to the repeal of the amendments. Mr. Hubbard said: "We + don't surrender the right to make such returns to the old + constitution as we may deem expedient. It is a future question that + we are not bound to discuss." Colonel McCook says: "How can I + answer for all the future? How can I tell what the Democracy of New + York or any other State may do?" Mr. Hunt says: "The fact that they + have been declared a part of the constitution does not preclude any + legitimate discussion as to their expediency. Proper action will + never be barred." The meaning of all this is that the Democratic + party will acquiesce in the amendments while it is out of power. + Whether or not it will try to repeal them when it gets power is a + question of the future which they are not bound to discuss. Or as + another distinguished gentleman has it, this question is "beyond + the range of profitable discussion." In reply to these gentlemen, + the well-informed Republican citizen when asked to vote for the new + departure, is very likely to adopt their own phraseology, and to + say, Whether I shall vote your ticket or not is a question of the + future which it is not now proper to discuss--"it is beyond the + range of profitable discussion;" and if he has the Democratic + veneration for Tammany hall, he will say with Colonel McCook, "How + can I tell what the Democracy of New York may do?" + + Notwithstanding the decision of the late convention, it is probable + that the real sentiment of the Democracy of Ohio is truly stated by + the Butler county Democrat: + + "Our position then, is, that while we regard the so-called + amendments as gross usurpation and base frauds--not a part of the + Federal constitution _de facto_ nor _de jure_--and, therefore, acts + which are void, we will abide by them until a majority of the + people of the States united shall, at the polls, put men in power + who shall hold them to be null and of no effect. We adhere + strictly, on this point, to the second resolution of Hon. L. D. + Campbell, adopted at the Democratic convention held in this county + last May; and to refresh the minds of our readers we reproduce it + here: + + "2. That now, as heretofore, we are opposed to all lawlessness and + disorder, and for maintaining the supremacy of the constitution and + laws as the only certain means of public safety, and will abide by + all their provisions until the same shall be amended, abrogated, or + repealed by the lawfully constituted authorities." + + The new departure has certainly very little claim to the support of + Republican citizens. What are its claims on honest Democrats? + + Colonel McCook, to make the new departure palatable to his + Democratic supporters, tells them that a repeal of the fifteenth + Amendment would fail of its object. That the right to vote, once + exercised by the black man, can not be taken away. Is this sound + either in law or logic? By the fifteenth amendment no State can + deny the right to vote to any citizens on account of race or color. + Suppose that amendment was repealed; what would prevent Kentucky + from denying suffrage to colored citizens? Plainly nothing. And in + case of such repeal it is probable that in less than ninety days + thereafter every Democratic State would deny suffrage to colored + citizens, and the great body of Democratic voters would heartily + applaud that result. The truth is, no sound argument can be made, + showing or tending to show that the new departure is consistent + with the Democratic record. Hitherto Democracy has taught that, as + a question of law, the amendments were made by force and fraud, and + are therefore void; that, as a question of principles, this is a + white man's government, and that to confer suffrage on the colored + races--on the African or Chinaman--would change the nature of the + government and speedily destroy it. Now the new departure demands + that Democrats shall accept the amendments as valid, and shall take + a pledge "to secure equal rights to all persons, without + distinction of race, color, or condition." Sincere Democrats will + find it very difficult to take that pledge, unless they are now + convinced that their whole political life has been a great mistake. + + When an individual changes his political principles--turns his coat + merely to catch votes--he is generally thought to be unworthy of + support, I entertain no doubt that the people of Ohio, at the + approaching election, will, upon that principle, by a large + majority, condemn the Democratic party for its bold attempt to + catch Republican votes by the new departure. + + +_Speech of_ GENERAL R. B. HAYES, _delivered at Marion, Lawrence County, +Ohio, July 31, 1875._ + + _Fellow-citizens of Lawrence County:_ + + It is a gratification for which I wish to make my acknowledgments + to the Republican committee of this county, to have the privilege + of beginning, in behalf of the Republicans of Ohio, the oral + discussions of this important political canvass before the people + of Lawrence county. Although my residence is separated from yours + by the whole breadth of the State, we are not strangers. We have + met before on similar occasions, and some of you were my comrades + in the Union army during a considerable part of the great civil + conflict which ended ten years ago. Those who had the honor and the + happiness to serve together during that memorable struggle are not + likely to forget each other. We shall forever regard those four + years as the most interesting period of our lives. + + The great majority of the people of Lawrence county, citizens as + well as soldiers, have also good reason to recall the events and + scenes of that contest with satisfaction and pride. + + The official records of the State show how well Lawrence county + performed her part in the war for the Union. From the beginning to + the end, with the ballot at home and with the musket in the field, + this county stood among the foremost of all the communities in the + United States in devotion to the good cause. And since the Nation's + triumph, Lawrence county, sooner or later, but never too late to + rejoice in the final and decisive victory, has supported every + measure required to secure the legitimate results of that triumph. + You have done your part forever to set at rest the great questions + of the past. It is settled that the United States constitute a + Nation, and that their government possesses ample power to maintain + its authority over every part of its territory against all + opposers. It is settled that no man under the American flag shall + be a slave. It is settled that all men born or naturalized in the + United States and within its jurisdiction shall be citizens + thereof, and have equal civil and political rights. It is settled + that the debt contracted to save the Nation is sacred, and shall be + honestly paid. You may well be congratulated that on all of these + questions you fought and voted on the right side. + + Fortunately, there is still further cause for congratulation. Our + adversaries, who were on the wrong side of all of these questions, + and who opposed us on all of them to the very last, are now + compelled to be silent in their platform on every one of them. Not + a single one of their fourteen resolutions raises any question on + any of these long-contested subjects. It is not strange that they + are silent. I do not choose on this occasion to recall the + predictions of evil which they so confidently made when discussing + the measures to which I have referred. It is enough for my present + purpose to point to the grand results. When the Republican party, + with Abraham Lincoln as president, received the government from the + hands of the Democratic party, fifteen years ago, the Union of the + fathers was destroyed. A hostile Nation, dedicated to perpetual + slavery, had been established south of the Potomac, and claimed + jurisdiction over one-third of the people and territory of the + Republic. These States were "dissevered, discordant, + belligerent"--our land was rent with civil feud, and ready to be + drenched in fraternal blood. Now, behold the change! The Union is + re-established on firmer foundations than ever before. Brave men in + the South, who were then in battle array against us, now stand side + by side with Union soldiers, with no shadow of discord between + them. Slavery, which was then an impassable gulf between the + hostile sections, is now gone; and good men of the South unite with + good men of the North in thanking God that it is forever a thing of + the past. Then there was no freedom of speech or of the press--no + friendly mingling together of the people of the two sections of the + country. Now the people of the South receive and greet as a + fellow-citizen and a friend the vice-president--a citizen of + Massachusetts, and an anti-slavery man from his youth; and + Maryland, Virginia, and South Carolina send their distinguished + sons to celebrate with New England the centennial anniversaries of + the early battles of the Revolution. The men of the North and the + men of the South are now everywhere coming together in a spirit of + harmony and friendship which this generation has not witnessed + before, and which has not existed, until now, since Jefferson was + startled by that "fire-ball in the night"--the Missouri + question--more than fifty years ago. + + In this era of good feeling and reconciliation a few men of morbid + temperament, blind to what is passing before them, still talk of + "bayonets" and "tyranny and cruelty to the South" and seek in vain + to revive the prejudices and passions of the past. But there is + barely enough of this angry dissent to remind us of the terrible + scenes through which we have passed, and to fill us with gratitude + that the house which was divided against itself is divided no + longer, and that all of its inhabitants now have a fair start and + an equal chance in the race of life. + + Let us now proceed to the consideration of some of the questions + which engage the attention of the people of Ohio. The war which the + Democratic party and its doctrines brought upon the country left a + large debt, heavy taxation, a depreciated currency, and an + unhealthy condition of business, which resulted two years ago in a + financial panic and depression, from which the country is now + slowly recovering. With this condition of things the Democratic + party in its recent State convention at Columbus undertook to deal. + + The most important part--in fact the only part of their platform in + Ohio this year which receives or deserves much attention, is that + in which is proclaimed a radical departure on the subject of money + from the teachings of all of the Democratic fathers. This Ohio + Democratic doctrine inculcates the abandonment of gold and silver + as a standard of value. Hereafter gold and silver are to be used as + money only "where respect for the obligation of contracts requires + payment in coin." The only currency for the people is to be paper + money, issued directly by the general government, "its volume to be + made and kept equal to the wants of trade," and with no provision + whatever for its redemption in coin. The Democratic candidate for + lieutenant-governor, who opened the canvass for his party, states + the money issue substantially as I have. General Carey, in his + Barnesville speech, says: + + "Gold and silver, when used as money, are redeemable in any + property there is for sale in the Nation; will pay taxes for any + debt, public or private. This alone gives them their money value. + If you had a hundred gold eagles, and you could not exchange them + for the necessaries of life, they would be trash, and you would be + glad to exchange them for greenbacks or anything else that you + could use to purchase what you require. With an absolute paper + money, stamped by the government and made a legal tender for all + purposes, and its functions as money are as perfect as gold or + silver can be!" + + This is the financial scheme which the Democratic party asks the + people of Ohio to approve at the election in October. The + Republicans accept the issue. Whether considered as a permanent + policy or as an expedient to mitigate present evils we are opposed + to it. It is without warrant in the constitution, and it violates + all sound financial principles. + + The objections to an inflated and irredeemable paper currency are + so many that I do not attempt to state them all. They are so + obvious and so familiar that I need not elaborately present or + argue them. All of the mischief which commonly follows inflated and + inconvertible paper money may be expected from this plan, and in + addition it has very dangerous tendencies, which are peculiarly its + own. An irredeemable and inflated paper currency promotes + speculation and extravagance, and at the same time discourages + legitimate business, honest labor, and economy. It dries up the + true sources of individual and public prosperity. Over-trading and + fast living always go with it. It stimulates the desire to incur + debt; it causes high rates of interest; it increases importations + from abroad; it has no fixed value; it is liable to frequent and + great fluctuations, thereby rendering every pecuniary engagement + precarious and disturbing all existing contracts and expectations; + it is the parent of panics. Every period of inflation is followed + by a loss of confidence, a shrinkage of values, depression of + business, panics, lack of employment, and widespread disaster and + distress. The heaviest part of the calamity falls on those least + able to bear it. The wholesale dealer, the middle-man, and the + retailer always endeavor to cover the risks of the fickle standard + of value by raising their prices. But the men of small means and + the laborer are thrown out of employment, and want and suffering + are liable soon to follow. + + When government enters upon the experiment of issuing irredeemable + paper money there can be no fixed limit to its volume. The amount + will depend on the interest of leading politicians, on their whims, + and on the excitement of the hour. It affords such facility for + contracting debt that extravagant and corrupt government + expenditure are the sure result. Under the name of public + improvements, the wildest enterprises, contrived for private gain, + are undertaken. Indefinite expansion becomes the rule, and in the + end bankruptcy, ruin, and repudiation. + + During the last few years a great deal has been said about the + centralizing tendency of recent events in our history. The + increasing power of the government at Washington has been a + favorite theme for Democratic declamation. But where, since the + foundation of the government, has a proposition been seriously + entertained which would confer such monstrous and dangerous powers + on the general government as this inflation scheme of the Ohio + Democracy? During the war for the Union, solely on the ground of + necessity, the government issued the legal tender, or greenback + currency. But they accompanied it with a solemn pledge in the + following words of the act of June 30, 1864: + + "Nor shall the total amount of United States notes issued or to be + issued ever exceed four hundred millions, and such additional sum, + not exceeding fifty millions, as may be temporarily required for + redemption of temporary loans." + + But the Ohio inflationists, in a time of peace, on grounds of mere + expediency, propose an inconvertible paper currency, with its + volume limited only by the discretion or caprice of its issuers, or + their judgment as to the wants of trade. The most distinguished + gentleman whose name is associated with the subject once said "the + process must be conducted with skill and caution, ... by men whose + position will enable them to guard against any evil," and using a + favorite illustration he said, "The secretary of the treasury ought + to be able to judge. His hand is upon the pulse of the country. He + can feel all the throbbings of the blood in the arteries. He can + tell when the blood flows too fast and strong, and when the + expansion should cease." This brings us face to face with the + fundamental error of this dangerous policy. The trouble is the + pulse of the patient will not so often decide the question as the + interest of the doctor. No man, no government, no Congress is wise + enough and pure enough to be trusted with this tremendous power + over the business, and property, and labor of the country. That + which concerns so intimately all business should be decided, if + possible, on business principles, and not be left to depend on the + exigencies of politics, the interests of party, or the ambition of + public men. It will not do for property, for business, or for labor + to be at the mercy of a few political leaders at Washington, either + in or out of Congress. The best way to prevent it is to apply to + paper money the old test sanctioned by the experience of all + Nations--let it be convertible into coin. If it can respond to this + test, it will, as nearly as possible, be sound, safe, and stable. + + The Republicans of Ohio are in favor of no sudden or harsh + measures. They do not propose to force resumption by a contraction + of the currency. They see that the ship is headed in the right + direction, and they do not wish to lose what has already been + gained. They are satisfied to leave to the influences of time and + the inherent energy and resources of the country the work that yet + remains to be done to place our currency at par. We believe that + what our country now needs to revive business and to give + employment to labor, is a restoration of confidence. We need + confidence in the stability and soundness of the financial policy + of the government. That confidence has for many months past been + slowly but steadily increasing. The Columbus Democratic platform + comes in as a disturbing element, and gives a severe shock to + reviving confidence. The country believed, and rejoiced to believe, + that Senator Thurman expressed the sober judgment of Ohio, when he + spoke last year in the Senate on this subject. The senator said, + March 24, 1874: + + "Never have I spoken in favor of that inflation of the currency, + which, I think I see full well, means that there shall never be any + resumption at all. That is the difference. It is one thing to + contract the currency, with a view to the resumption of specie + payment; it is another thing neither to contract nor enlarge it, + but let resumption, come naturally and as soon as the business and + production of the country will bring it about. But it is a very + different thing indeed to inflate the currency with a view never in + all time to redeem it at all. And that is precisely what this + inflation means. It means demonetizing gold and silver in + perpetuity, and substituting a currency of irredeemable paper, + based wholly and entirely upon government credit, and depending + upon the opinion and the interests of the members of Congress and + their hopes of popularity, whether the volume of it shall be large + or small. That is what this inflation means. Sir, I have never said + anything in favor of that. I am too old-fashioned a Democrat for + that. I can not give up the convictions of a life-time, whether + they be popular or unpopular." + + April 6th, when the Senate inflation bill was debated, he said: + + "It simply means that no man of my age shall ever again see in this + country that kind of currency which the framers of the constitution + intended should be the currency of the Union; which every sound + writer on political economy the world over says is the only + currency that defrauds no man. It means that so long as I live, and + possibly long after I shall be laid in the grave, this people shall + have nothing but an irredeemable currency with which to transact + their business--that currency which has been well described as the + most effective invention that ever the wit of man devised to + fertilize the rich man's field by the sweat of the poor man's brow. + I will have nothing to do with it." + + How great the shock which was given to returning confidence by the + Democratic action at Columbus abundantly appears by the manner in + which the platform is received by the Liberal and the English and + the German Democratic press throughout the United States. The + Liberal press and the German press, so far as I have observed, in + the strongest terms condemn the platform. They speak of it as + disturbing confidence, shaking credit, and threatening repudiation. + A large part of the Democratic press of other States is hardly less + emphatic. It would be strange, indeed, if this were otherwise. In + Ohio, less than two years ago, the convention which nominated + Governor Allen resolved, speaking of the Democratic party, that "it + recognizes the evils of an irredeemable paper currency, but + insists that in the return to specie payment care should be taken + not to seriously disturb the business of the country or unjustly + injure the debtor class." There was no inflation then. Now come the + soft-money leaders of the Democratic party, and try to persuade the + people that the promises of the United States should only be + redeemed by other promises, and that it is sound policy to increase + them. + + The credit of the Nation depends on its ability and disposition to + keep its promises. If it fails to keep them, and suffers them to + depreciate, its credit is tainted, and it must pay high rates of + interest on all of its loans. For many years we must be a borrower + in the markets of the world. The interest-bearing debt is over + seventeen hundred millions of dollars. If we could borrow money at + the same rate with some of the great Nations of Europe, we could + save perhaps two per cent per annum on this sum. Thirty or forty + millions a year we are paying on account of tainted credit. The + more promises to pay an individual issues, without redeeming them, + the worse becomes his credit. It is the same with Nations. The + legal tender note for five dollars is the promise of the United + States to pay that sum in the money of the world, in coin. No time + is fixed for its payment. It is therefore payable on + presentation--on demand. It is not paid; it is past due; and it is + depreciated to the extent of twelve per cent. The country + recognizes the necessities of the situation, and waits, and is + willing to wait, until the productive business of the country + enables the government to redeem. But the Columbus financiers are + not satisfied. They demand the issue of more promises. This is + inflation. No man can doubt the result. The credit of the Nation + will inevitably suffer. There will be further depreciation. A + depreciation of ten per cent diminishes the value of the present + paper currency from fifty to one hundred millions of dollars. Its + effect on business would be disastrous in the extreme. The present + legal tenders have a certain steadiness, because there is a limit + fixed to their amount. Public opinion confides in that limit. But + let that limit be broken down, and all is uncertainty. The authors + of this scheme believe inflation is a good thing. When this subject + was under discussion, a few years ago, the Cincinnati _Enquirer_ + said "the issue of two millions dollars of currency would only put + it in the power of each voter to secure $400 for himself and + family to spend in the course of a life-time. Is there any voter + thinks that is too much--more than he will want?" This shows what + the platform means. It means inflation without limit; and inflation + is the downward path to repudiation. It means ruin to the Nation's + credit, and to all individual credit. All the rest of the world + have the same standard of value. Our promises are worthless as + currency the moment you pass our boundary line. Even in this + country, very extensive sections still use the money of the world. + Texas, the most promising and flourishing State of the South, uses + coin. California and the other Pacific States and Territories do + the same. Look at their condition. Texas and California are not the + least prosperous part of the United States. This scheme can not be + adopted. The opinion of the civilized world is against it. The vast + majority of the ablest newspapers of the country is against it. The + best minds of the Democratic party are against it. The last three + Democratic candidates for the presidency were against it. The + German citizens of the United States, so distinguished for + industry, for thrift, and for soundness of judgment in all + practical money affairs, are a unit against it. The Republican + party is against it. The people of Ohio will, I am confident, + decide in October to have nothing to do with it. + + Since the adoption of the inflation platform at Columbus, a great + change has taken place in the feelings and views of its friends. + Then they were confident--perhaps it is not too much to say that + they were dictatorial and overbearing toward their hard money party + associates. There was no doubt as to the intent and meaning of the + platform. Its friends asserted that the country needed more money, + and more money now. That the way to get it was to issue government + legal tender notes liberally. But the storm of criticism and + condemnation which burst upon the platform from the soundest + Democrats in all quarters has alarmed its supporters. Many of them + have been seized with a panic, and are now utterly stampeded and in + full retreat. They say that they are not for inflation, not for + inconvertible paper money, and that they never have been. That they + are hard money men, and always have been. That they look forward to + a return of specie payment, and that it must always be kept in + view. Why what did they mean by their platform? Did they expect to + make money plenty by an issue of more coin? Certainly not. By an + issue of more paper redeemable in coin? Certainly not. They + expected to issue more legal tender notes--notes irredeemable and + depreciated. But public opinion as shown by the press is so + decidedly against them, that Ohio inflationists now begin to desert + their own platform. Even Mr. Pendleton is solicitous not to be held + responsible for the Columbus scheme. He says, "I speak for myself + alone. I do not assume to speak for the Democratic party. Its + convention has spoken for it," and proceeds to interpret the + platform as if it was for hard money. Senator Thurman did not so + understand it. He thought the hard money men were beaten and felt + disappointed. It now looks as if General Carey might be left almost + alone before the canvass ends. If Judge Thurman could get that + convention together again, it is evident that he could now in the + same body rout the inflationists, horse, foot, and artillery. + Nothing but a victory in Ohio can put inflation again on its legs. + Let it be defeated in October, and the friends of a sound and + honest currency will have a clear field for at least the life of + the present generation. + + Two years ago, the Democratic party came fully into power in Ohio, + in the State legislature, and for the first time in twenty years, + elected the executive of the State. They were also entrusted with + the affairs of the leading cities, and a majority of the wealthiest + and most populous counties in the State. It would be profitable in + us to inquire how this came about, and what are the results. In the + course of the canvass it is my purpose to show in detail how + unfortunate their management of State affairs has been. It will + appear, on investigation, that the interests of the State in the + benevolent, penal, and reformatory institutions have been + sacrificed to the spoils doctrine: how the cities, and especially + the chief city of the State, has suffered by the corruption of its + rulers; how public expenditures have been increased, until the + aggregate of taxation in Ohio, in this time of money depression, is + vastly larger than ever before; how the number of salaried officers + was increased; how the members of the legislature were corrupted by + bribery, notorious, and shameless; and how the dominant party + utterly failed to deal with this corruption as duty and the good + name of the State demanded. Fallacious and deceptive statements + have been made as to the reduction of the levy for State taxes, and + as to the appropriations. It is enough now to say that the + aggregate taxation in Ohio in 1874, was over $27,000,000, a larger + sum than was ever before collected by tax-gatherers in Ohio. + + Altogether the most interesting questions in our State affairs are + those which relate to the passage, by the last legislature, of the + Geghan bill and the war which the sectarian wing of the Democratic + party is now waging against the public schools. In the admirable + speech made by Judge Taft at the Republican State Convention, he + sounded the key-note to the canvass on this subject. He said "our + motto must be universal liberty and universal suffrage, secured by + universal education." Before we discuss these questions, it may be + well, in order that there may be no excuse for further + misrepresentation, to show by whom this subject was introduced into + politics, and to state explicitly that we attack no sect and no + man, either Protestant or Jew, Catholic or Unbeliever, on account + of his conscientious convictions in regard to religion. Who began + the agitation of this subject? Why is it agitated? All parties have + taken hold of it. The Democratic party in their State convention + make it the topic of their longest resolution. In their platform + they gave it more space than to any other subject except the + currency. Many of the Democratic county conventions also took + action upon it. + + The Republican State Convention passed resolutions on the question. + It is stated that it was considered in about forty Republican + county conventions. The State Teachers' Association, at their last + meeting, passed unanimously the following resolution. Mr. Tappan, + from the Committee on Resolutions, reported the following: + + "_Resolved_, That we are in favor of a free, impartial, and + unsectarian education to every child in the State, and that any + division of the school fund or appropriation of any part thereof to + any religious or private school would be injurious to education and + the best interests of the church." + + An able address by the Rev. Dr. Jeffers, of Cleveland, showing the + "perils which threaten our public schools," was emphatically + applauded by that intelligent body of citizens. + + The assemblies of the different religious denominations in the + State, which have recently been held, have generally, and I think + without exception, passed similar resolutions. If blame is to + attach to all who consider and discuss this question before the + public, we have had a very large body of offenders. But I have not + named all who are engaged in it. I have not named those who began + it; those who for years have kept it up; those who in the press, on + the platform, in the pulpit, in legislative bodies, in city + councils, and in school boards, now unceasingly agitate the + question. Everybody knows who they are; everybody knows that the + sectarian wing of the Democratic party began this agitation, and + that it is bent on the destruction of our free schools. If + Republicans acting on the defensive discuss the subject, and + express the opinion that the Democratic party can't safely be + trusted, they are denounced in unmeasured terms. General Carey + calls them "political knaves" and "fools" and "bigots." But it is + very significant that no Democratic speaker denounces those who + began the agitation. All their epithets are leveled at the men who + are on the right side of the question. Agitation on the wrong + side--agitation against the schools may go on. It meets no + condemnation from leading Democratic candidates and speakers. The + reason is plain. Those who mean to destroy the school system + constitute a formidable part of the Democratic party, without whose + support that party, as the legislature was told last Spring, can + not carry the county, the city, nor the State. + + The sectarian agitation against the public schools was begun many + years ago. During the last few years, it has steadily and rapidly + increased, and has been encouraged by various indications of + possible success. It extends to all of the States where schools at + the common expense have been long established. Its triumphs are + mainly in the large towns and cities. It has already divided the + schools, and in a considerable degree impaired and limited their + usefulness. The glory of the American system of education has been + that it was so cheap that the humblest citizen could afford to give + his children its advantages, and so good that the man of wealth + could nowhere provide for his children anything better. This gave + the system its most conspicuous merit. It made it a Republican + system. The young of all conditions of life are brought together + and educated on terms of perfect equality. The tendency of this is + to assimilate and to fuse together the various elements of our + population, to promote unity, harmony, and general good will in our + American society. But the enemies of the American system have begun + the work of destroying it. They have forced away from the public + schools, in many towns and cities, one-third or one-fourth of their + pupils and sent them to schools which it is safe to say are no whit + superior to those they have left. These youth are thus deprived of + the associations and the education in practical Republicanism and + American sentiments which they peculiarly need. Nobody questions + their constitutional and legal right to do this, and to do it by + denouncing the public schools. Sectarians have a lawful right to + say that these schools are "a relict of paganism--that they are + Godless," and that "the secular school system is a social cancer." + But when having thus succeeded in dividing the schools, they make + that a ground for abolishing school taxation, dividing the school + fund, or otherwise destroying the system, it is time that its + friends should rise up in its defense. + + We all agree that neither the government nor political parties + ought to interfere with religious sects. It is equally true that + religious sects ought not to interfere with the government or with + political parties. We believe that the cause of good government and + the cause of religion both suffer by all such interference. But if + Sectarians make demands for legislation of political parties, and + threaten that party with opposition at the elections in case the + required enactments are not passed, and if the political party + yields to such threats, then those threats, those demands, and that + action of the political party become a legitimate subject of + political discussion, and the sectarians who thus interfere with + the legislation of the State are alone responsible for the + agitation which follows. + + And now a few words as to the action of the last legislature on + this subject. After an examination of the Geghan bill, we shall + perhaps come to the conclusion that in itself it is not of great + importance. I would not undervalue the conscientious scruples on + the subject of religion of a convict in the penitentiary, or of any + unfortunate person in any State institution. But the provision of + the constitution of the State covers the whole ground. It needs no + awkwardly framed statute of doubtful meaning, like the Geghan bill, + to accomplish the object of the organic law. The old constitution + of 1802, and the constitution now in force, of 1851, are + substantially alike. Both declare (I quote section 7, article 1, + constitution of 1851): + + "All men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty + God according to the dictates of their own conscience. No person + shall be compelled to attend, erect, or support any place of + worship, or maintain any form of worship against his consent; and + no preference shall be given by law to any religious society; nor + shall any interference with the right of conscience be permitted." + + If the Geghan bill is merely a reenactment of this part of the bill + of rights, it is a work of supererogation, and it is not strange + that the legislature did not, when it was introduced, favor its + passage. The author of the bill wrote, "the members claim that such + a bill is not needed." The same opinion prevails in New Jersey, + where a similar bill is said to have been defeated by a vote of + three to one. But the sectarians of Ohio were resolved on the + passage of this bill. Mr. Geghan, its author, wrote to Mr. Murphy, + of Cincinnati: + + "We have a prior claim upon the Democratic party. The elements + composing the Democratic party in Ohio to-day are made up of Irish + and German catholics, and they have always been loyal and faithful + to the interests of the party. Hence the party is under obligations + to us, and we have a perfect right to demand of them, as a party, + inasmuch as they are in control of the State legislature and State + government, and were by both our means and votes placed where they + are to-day, that they should, as a party, redress our grievances." + + The organ of the friends of the bill published this letter, and + among other things said: + + "The political party with which nine-tenths of the Catholic voters + affiliate on account of past services that they will never forget, + now controls the State. Withdraw the support which Catholics have + given to it and it will fall in this city, county, and State, as + speedily as it has risen to its long lost position and power. That + party is now on trial. Mr. Geghan's bill will test the sincerity of + its professions." + + That threat was effectual. The bill was passed, and the sectarian + organ therefore said: + + "The unbroken solid vote of the Catholic citizens of the State will + be given to the Democracy at the fall election." + + In regard to those who voted against the bill, it said: "They have + dug their political grave; it will not be our fault if they do not + fill it. When any of them appear again in the political arena, we + will put upon them a brand that every Catholic citizen will + understand." No defense of this conduct of the last legislature has + yet been attempted. The facts are beyond dispute. This is the first + example of open and successful sectarian interference with + legislation in Ohio. If the people are wise, they will give it such + a rebuke in October that for many years, at least, it will be the + last. + + But it is claimed that the schools are in no danger. Now that + public attention is aroused to the importance of the subject, it is + probable that in Ohio they are safe. But their safety depends on + the rebuke which the people shall give to the party which yielded + last spring at Columbus to the threats of their enemies. It is said + that no political party "desires the destruction of the schools." I + reply, no political party "desired" the passage of the Geghan bill; + but the power which hates the schools passed the bill. The + sectarian wing of the Democratic party rules that party to-day in + the great commercial metropolis of the Nation. It holds the balance + of power in many of the large cities of the country. Without its + votes, the Democratic party would lose every large city and county + in Ohio and every Northern State. In the presidential canvass of + 1864, it was claimed that General McClellan was as good a Union man + as Abraham Lincoln, and that he was as much opposed to the + rebellion. An eminent citizen of this State replied: "I learn from + my adversaries. Who do the enemies of the Union want elected? The + man they are for, I am against." So I would say to the friends of + the public schools: "How do the enemies of universal education + vote?" If the enemies of the free schools give their "unbroken, + solid vote" to the Democratic ticket, the friends of the schools + will make no mistake if they vote the Republican ticket. + + The Republicans enter upon this important canvass with many + advantages. Their adversaries are loaded down with the record of + the last legislature. Democratic legislatures have not been + fortunate in Ohio. Since the present division of parties, twenty + years ago, no Democratic legislature has ever failed to bring + defeat to its party. The people of Ohio have never been willing to + venture on the experiment of two Democratic legislatures in + succession. The Democratic inflation platform offends German + Democrats, has driven off the Liberal Republicans, and is accepted + by very few old-fashioned Democrats in its true intent and meaning. + The Republicans are out of power in the cities and in the State, + and are everywhere taking the offensive. If Democrats assail them + on account of some affair of years ago, or in a distant Southern + State, or at Washington, Republicans reply by pointing to what + Democrats are now doing in their own cities, or have just done in + the last legislature. The materials for such retort are abundant + and ready at hand. The Republicans are embarrassed by no entangling + alliance with the sectarian enemies of the public schools, and they + have yielded to no sectarian demands or dictation in public + affairs. We rejoice to see indications of an active canvass and a + large vote at the election. Such a canvass and such a vote in Ohio + never yet resulted in a Democratic victory. Our motto is honest + money for all and free schools for all. There should be no + inflation which will destroy the one, and no sectarian interference + which will destroy the other. + + +_Speech of_ GOVERNOR HAYES _to his neighbors at Fremont, delivered June +25, 1876._ + + _Mr. Mayor, Fellow-Citizens, Friends, and Neighbors:_ + + I need not attempt to express the emotions I feel at the reception + which the people of Fremont and this county have given me to-night. + Under any circumstances, an assemblage of this sort at my home to + welcome me would touch me, would excite the warmest emotions of + gratitude; but what gives to this its distinctive character is the + fact that those who are prominent in welcoming me home, I know, in + the past, have not voted with me or for me, and they do not intend + in the future to vote with me or for me. It is simply that, coming + to my home, they rejoice that Ohio, that Sandusky county, that the + town of Fremont has received at that National Convention high + honor, and I thank you, Democrats, fellow-citizens, Independents, + and Republicans, for this spontaneous and enthusiastic reception. + + I trust that in the course of events the time will never come that + you will have cause to regret what you do to-night. It is a very + great responsibility that has been placed upon me--to be a + representative of a party embracing twenty millions of people--a + responsibility which I know I am not equal to. I understand very + well that it was not by reason of ability or talents that I was + chosen. But that which does rejoice me is that here, where I have + been known from my childhood, there are those that come and rejoice + at the result. + + I trust, my friends, that as I run along in this desultory way--for + you well know that since I learned that I was to be here to-night, + the multitude of letters, and visits, and telegrams requiring + attention have given me no time to prepare for a reception like + this--you must, therefore, put up with hastily-formed sentences, + very unfitly representing the sentiments appropriate to the + occasion. Let me, if I may do it without too much egotism, recur to + the history of my connection with Fremont. Forty-two years ago my + uncle, Sardis Birchard, brought me to this place, and I rejoice, my + friends, in the good taste and good feeling which have placed his + portrait here to-night. He, having adopted me as his child, brought + me to Fremont. I recollect well the appearance of the then Lower + Sandusky, consisting of a few wooden buildings scattered along the + river, with little paint on them, and these trees none of them + grown, the old fort still having some of its earthworks remaining, + so that it could be easily traced. A pleasant village this was for + a boy to enjoy himself in. There was the fishing on the river, + shooting water-fowls above the dam, at the islands and the lake. + Perhaps no boy ever enjoyed his departure from home better than I + did when I first came to Fremont. + + But now see what this town is,--how it has grown. It has not + increased to a first-class city, but it has become a pleasant home, + so pleasant, so thriving that I rejoice to think that whatever may + be the result next fall it will be pleasant to return to it when + the contest is over. If defeated, I shall return to you oftener + than if I go to the White House. If I go there I shall look forward + with pleasure to the time when I shall be permitted to return to + you, to be a neighbor with you again. And really we have cause to + be satisfied with our home and the interests which the future has + in store for us here. Larger cities always have strife and rivalry, + from which we are free, and yet we are well situated between two + commercial centers, the Eastern and Western, between which is the + great highway of the world, and we can not but partake of their + prosperity. Over the railroad passing through this place, or near + it, will pass for all time to come the travel and trade of New York + and San Francisco, of London and Pekin. Every town along this route + partakes of the prosperity of this highway. Upper Sandusky, on the + Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railroad, and Tiffin, that + thriving and beautiful city through which passes the Baltimore and + Ohio Railroad, south of us, while along the lake shore passes the + great northern division of the Lake Shore Road, making this route, + as it were, the great artery of the world's travel, and we can + abide with the prosperity that is to come in the future. Those of + our friends who travel in Europe return sometimes dissatisfied, + because there is a rawness in this country not seen in England and + the older countries of Europe. But then the greatest happiness, as + all of us know, in preparing a garden or a home is to see the + improvements growing up under our hands. This is what we enjoy; and + the change in Fremont from the time I first knew it till to-day + gives me very great pleasure. + + There is another change which gives rise to mournful reflections. + When I came here in the year 1834, I became acquainted with honored + citizens who are no longer living. There was, Mr. Mayor, your + father, Rudolphus Dickinson, Thomas I. Hawkins, Judge Olmsted, + Judge Howland, and, among others, that marvel of business energy, + George Grant; and I might go on giving name after name. But it is + true that of all those I remember seeing on that first visit, not + one is with us to-night. All who came with me, my uncle, my mother, + and my sister, are gone. But this is the order of Providence. + Events follow upon one another as wave follows wave upon the ocean. + It is for each man to do what he can to make others happy. This is + the prayer and this is the duty of life. Let us, my friends, in + every position, undertake to perform this duty. For one, I have no + reliance except that which Abraham Lincoln had when, on leaving + Springfield, he said to his friends: "I go to Washington to assume + a responsibility greater than that which has been devolved upon any + one since the first president, and I beg you, my friends and + neighbors, to pray that I may have that Divine assistance, without + which I can not succeed, and with which I can not fail." In that + spirit I ask you to deal with me. If it shall be the will of the + people that this nomination shall be ratified, I know I shall have + your good wishes and your prayers. If, on the other hand, it shall + be the will of the people that another shall assume these great + responsibilities, let us see to it that we who shall oppose him + give him a fair trial. + + My friends, I thank you for the interest you have taken in this + reception, and that you have laid aside partisan feeling. There has + been too much bitterness on such occasions in our land. Let us see + to it that abuse and vituperation of the candidate that shall be + named at St. Louis do not proceed from our lips. Let us, in this + centennial year, as we enter upon this second century of our + existence, set an example of what a free and intelligent people can + do. There is gathered at Philadelphia an assemblage representing + nearly all the Nations of the world, with their arts and + manufactures. We have invited competition, and they have come to + compete with us, and with each other. We find that America stands + well with the works of the world, as there exhibited. Let us show, + in electing a chief magistrate of the Nation--the officer that is + to be the first of forty or forty-five millions--let us show all + those who visit us how the American people can conduct themselves + through a canvass of this kind. If it shall be in the spirit in + which we have met to-night, if it shall be that justness and + fairness shall be in all the discussions, it will commend free + institutions to the world in a way which they have never been + commended before. + + Well, friends, I am detaining you too long. Therefore I close what + I have to say by expressing the feelings of gratitude entertained + by myself and family for the kindness and regard shown us by the + people of Fremont. + + About the middle of the war, General Sherman lost a boy, named + after himself, aged about thirteen years. He supposed that he + belonged to the Thirteenth Infantry, and when they went out to + drill and dress parade, he dressed in the dress of a sergeant and + marched with them. But he sickened and died. The regiment gathered + about him, for he was to them a comrade--dear as the child is loved + by men who are torn away from the associations of home. General + Sherman, the great soldier, was touched by it. He said it would be + idle for him to try to express the gratitude which he felt; but he + said they held the key to the affections of himself and family, and + if any of them should ever be in need, if they would mention that + they belonged to the Thirteenth Infantry at the time his boy died, + they would divide with him the last blanket, and last morsel of + food. It is in this spirit that I wish to express my thanks to the + people of Fremont for the welcome they have given me. I bid you, my + friends, good night. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Life, Public Services and Select +Speeches of Rutherford B. 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