The Cortland Democrat, Friday, August 24, 1900.
MOMENTOUS QUESTION.
China's Fate Will Now Be Settled by Powers.
The good news from Pekin, while it brings immeasurable relief to the world, serves but to hasten the real Chinese crisis. It cannot be assumed, of course, that military operations will be ended with the occupation of Pekin, but the collapse of the Chinese resistance during the march of the allies disposed once and for all of the fear that civilization was face to face with the "yellow peril" in its most dangerous form. Every government in Europe believed a month ago that the ruling dynasty of China after years of secret arming and other preparations had deliberately embarked upon a campaign for the expulsion of foreigners and all foreign interests from Asia. It is now clear that if any such plot existed it was limited in inception and premature in execution, and has already been virtually defeated.
The situation now justifies the belief that China is not only divided hopelessly against itself, but that the north is practically without government and in a condition of anarchy. The subjugation of any further insurrectionary movements ought to be an easy task, unless the fleeing empress and her satellite seek to spread the uprising in the central and southern provinces of the empire. The further south they go, however, the more their influence will diminish. In fact, one of the most probable consequences of the crisis with which the powers expect to be confronted is a revolt of the real China against the Manchu dynasty.
It is necessary for the allies, while continuing preparations for any military action which may become imperative, to turn their attention immediately to the vast and difficult political features of the problem. This necessity is peculiarly embarrassing to Great Britain at the present moment. The Salisbury government had reason to believe that this most dreaded aspect of the situation might be kept in abeyance for a few weeks and that England might have one more opportunity to free herself from the deadly entanglements which are paralyzing her arms in South Africa before grappling with the perilous difficulties of the Far Eastern question.
Moreover, England has entered upon the task with a mistake which is the worst possible augury for her future interests. The diplomatic world is discussing the sad vacillation of the British policy at Shanghai more eagerly than the welcome news from Pekin. The government finds no defenders even among its own supporters. Why, asks The Times and all other conservative organs, did the government announce its purpose to land troops at Shanghai if it were willing to be bullied or persuaded to abandon the purpose later? Vacillation is, according to every authority, the worst possible mistake in dealing with Orientals, and the capture of Pekin is a fortunate offset to the British weakness in the Shanghai matter.
It is quite true that Great Britain's action in the first instance caused what The Times describes as almost hysterical denunciation on the continent and especially in France, but every government consented to the landing of British troops with, of course, the proviso that they reserve the same right. It is not yet clear why Lord Salisbury changed his mind unless it was that the news that France was promptly sending a large force to the same port raised the fear of such complications that an adjustment would be impossible. At all events, the government has now recommended itself to a policy of occupation and there can be no doubt that Admiral Seymour's troops will be joined in a few days by large French forces, while Russia and Germany will seek similar representation at the earliest possible moment.
The discussion of the problem as a whole has scarcely begun as yet, either in diplomatic circles or by the general public. There is no doubt in anyone's mind that Germany will demand a special reckoning with China. It is hardly expected in England that the Kaiser will be satisfied with merely pecuniary indemnity for the murder of Baron Von Ketteler. In fact England fears that she may be outvoted on the question of the maintenance of the integrity of the Chinese empire. The only support upon which she absolutely relies is that of the United States. There are signs. therefore, and the final decision to land troops at Shanghai is one of them, that Great Britain is making every preparation to get the largest share possible in the case that the dismemberment of the coastwise portion of China is decided upon by the other powers.
The suggestion that the Chinese question be referred to a hastily summoned international conference is negative instead of supported by the rapid march of events. The necessity of immediate action is imperative. Every effort will be made by the telegraphic exchange of Vienna to reach a solution. In case of a disagreement or a deadlock the last resort will be a temporary modus vivendi, pending further negotiations by conference or otherwise. The latter, however, will be a dangerous expedient for much now depends upon prompt, firm and united action, if anarchy and revolution throughout China are to be avoided.
JUDGE EGGLESTON CHOSEN.
Elected President or the State Firemen's Association.
At the annual convention of the State Firemen's association, held in Syracuse this week, Cortland was honored by the choice of Judge J. E. Eggleston for president. The nomination was made by C. V. Coon, and was substantially as follows:
"I came here for the purpose of presenting to this convention as a candidate for the high and responsible position of president, the name of a gentleman who needs no introduction to those here present; a gentleman whose counsel has been listened to in the years gone by; a gentleman who, at home, by his enthusiastic devotion and interest to duty, and who as county judge of Cortland county for twelve consecutive years, has won the admiration of all. I refer, gentlemen, to Joseph E. Eggleston of Cortland. He is a gentleman who has been an active fireman and knows their duties. Although he styled himself yesterday as 'has been', and although he holds the highest office in the gift of the people of his county, if you were in our own town, and an alarm of fire sounded, you would see that the first to seize the fire apparatus would be our county judge.
"In behalf of the volunteer firemen of Central and Southern New York and, I believe, of the firemen of the Empire state, I present his name, and if you elect him to that high position, you will elect a suitable man to follow in the footsteps of the honorable gentleman who is about to retire." (Cheers and continued applause.)
Judge Eggleston was escorted to the platform and made a brief speech of acceptance as follows:
"Gentlemen of the convention: For the distinguished honor you have conferred upon me at this time by electing me as your presiding officer, I am profoundly grateful and I accept the office, realizing as I do so, the added responsibilities and duties that come to me as president of the volunteer firemen of the state of New York.
"At the outset I realize that I take up the work where my worthy predecessor, one who has been so worthy and faithful and who has so won your respect, left off, and I am reminded of the old adage, 'let not him who putteth on the armour boast like he who takes it off'. In our work we should be united.
Our mission is a noble one, and an honorable one, and the fireman who honestly and faithfully performs his duty lives up to the golden rule, 'Do ye unto others as ye would have others do unto you.' There is, there can be, no nobler body of men banded together for the public good than the firemen of the state of New York., Gentlemen, I thank you for this honor.''
The next state convention will be held in Buffalo.
Spencer Family Reunion.
We were unable last week to give the afternoon proceedings at the Spencer family reunion, held with Mr. and Mrs. William Stacy, and we are now placed under some embarrassment because of a conflict in reports furnished.
Four very reliable gentlemen came to this office Friday morning and gave the correct order of exercises, and stated explicitly that among the speeches was one by Isaac Edgcomb. Mr. Edgcomb informs us that he did not make a speech, but inasmuch as we have the evidence of four reputable citizens against a gentleman who is rather modest in speaking of his oratorical ability, we insist that he must have addressed the guests, in spite of his denial.
After dinner the company was called to order by the president, and prayer was offered by Isaac Edgcomb, followed by reading of the minutes of last meeting. Officers were then chosen as follows:
President—Lynn Spencer.
Vice-President—Malden Spencer.
Secretary—Mrs. Julia Jennings.
Treasurer—Mrs. Wayland Spencer.
Historians— Mrs. Alice Chrisman, Alden Allen and Mrs. Eva Hodges.
An interesting letter from May Spencer was read by Mrs. Wayland Spencer.
Speeches were made by Isaac Edgcomb, Dr. Adamy. Belden Allen and others.
A vote of thanks was extended to Mrs. William Stacy, after which an adjournment was taken, the company being unanimous in pronouncing this one of the happiest reunions of the family ever held.
THE LAZY REPORTER.
What He Has Observed While Wandering About the City.
I am one of those lazy people who hail with peculiar satisfaction the oft repeated injunction during these days when the temperature is exploring the tube in the neighborhood of ninety-five degrees, to "take things easy." As a matter of fact it is generally conceded that the majority of people are not inclined to "take things easy,'' judging from the amount of fretting and fuming one hears about the weather. The trite injunction, "keep cool," is as pertinent and practical in summer as to "keep warm" is in winter. I am sure that the person who spends his or her time in consulting the thermometer and discussing the weather with everyone with whom they come in contact, suffers more than the person who "takes things as they come."Personally I am too constitutionally tired to fret, and I strictly obey the injunction, "take things as they come." Why don't you?
Down on Pomeroy-st., near the corner of Railroad-st , lives a sensible man, assuming that he owns the neat residence which is his habitation. Just outside the sidewalk there are two fine shade trees, each of which is loaded with tempting looking butternuts. That man can enjoy the shade of the trees in summer and regale himself and family with the fruits thereof in the winter.
I wish I could impress upon the mind of every citizen of Cortland the fact that nothing so contributes to the advancement of a locality as community pride. And bear in mind that community pride is absent where there is no personal pride. Even your front yards are an index of condition that cannot be ignored, for it shown clearly whether a city or village is desirable as a residence place. I am pleased to say that as a rule Cortland people take pains with their lawns and yards, and in this way exhibit a community pride.
How the women do scold and fret this summer about the dust which enters their houses. The exceeding dry weather has caused the dust to be blown about at a reckless gait, and there is no way of keeping it entirely out of the house, even though the windows and doors are kept closed, for it sifts in and covers everything with a heavy gritty substance that fairly makes a woman wild, especially those who are inclined to be neat and tidy.
Through the kindness and courtesy of a good friend, the lazy reporter was escorted to that beautiful haven of rest, Glen Haven, Sunday, and the ozone gathered during the ride and on the Skaneateles lake will prolong his days by several, if not more. There are many delightful, invigorating spots in Central New York, but none of them exceed Glen Haven in the grandeur of the scenery, both on land and lake.
The fad among women this summer to go about bareheaded had the effect of a wet blanket upon the millinery interests throughout the country, but the attack of a minister in the southern part of the state upon his unbonneted parishioners offers them a ray of satisfaction and encouragement. The reverend gentleman bases his objection on the scriptures, and introduced his subject with these gospel quotations:
''Every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoreth her head. For that is even all one if she were shaven.''
''For if the woman be not covered let her also be shorn; that if it be a shame for a woman to be shaven or shorn, let her be covered.''
PAGE FOUR—SHORT EDITORIALS.
Mark Hanna will go upon the stump. This is right. Hanna is typical of current Republican policy.
The Constitution is a dead letter in McKinley's eyes. Bryan's election will revive respect for the Constitution.
This nation desires no colonies, and it cannot make American citizens of the inhabitants of the leprous Philippine Islands five thousand miles away.
Republicans arc so short of campaign funds that even their own newspaper organs come out and tell about it. You know, "Rats desert a sinking ship," but it is hard on Marcus the Great.
By confession of Republican Cabinet officials the war to subjugate the Filipinos has already cost the United States $200,000,000. This sum has been wrung in taxes from the American people.
With iron, steel and tin selling at fabulous prices, the working men in those industries get no higher wages than they did a year ago. One of the largest strikes in the history of the country is imminent. Trusts are good—nit.
The coming Democratic tidal wave will carry in the whole Democratic ticket to office, but in the meantime, just put in a good word for Joseph W. Fassett for county clerk. He is deserving of all and more than any one can say of him.
Take a drive over the new Freetown road, then inquire what it cost and how it was completed in contract time by Watts S. Freer. There are enough points of economy and executive ability right there to elect him for superintendent of the poor next November.
Talk about dissatisfied Republicans! Well, there are lots of them and they will vote for a blooming, hard-shell Democrat, Francis M. Hazzard, for sheriff. And there are all the symptoms of there being enough to place him in the court house to live, for three years after January 1, next.
Business men and farmers have confidence in Dr. Benjamin Kinyon, Democratic nominee for member of assembly. In fact every one likes and respects the Doctor and his vote will be large in any event, but let us all take a Republican friend and hold up to him the difference between a clean, law-abiding, majority-rule candidate like Dr. Kinyon and one of the perpetrators and ringleaders of a "corrupt and drunken" caucus, and we can elect the Cincinnatus gentleman by a handsome majority.
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| George S. Boutwell. |
Anti-Imperial Republicans for Bryan.
By far the most important and far reaching political announcement outside the two great conventions, made in this campaign, is that of the anti-imperial Republican convention, made at Indianapolis, presided over by Ex-Gov. George S. Boutwell of Massachusetts. After full and free discussion, and patient listening to every man who had objection to offer, the platform was adopted with practical unanimity—only fifteen dissentients.
1. It recognizes a great national crisis, menacing the republic upon whose future depends the hope of freedom throughout the world.
2. Condemns the president for prostituting the army to subjugation of a foreign people, and polluting the flag by throwing protection over slavery and polygamy in the Sulu [Islands].
3. Reaffirms the Declaration of Independence.
4. Expresses renewed regard for the constitution of the United States which the president permits to be spat upon and trample under foot by a Major-General of the army, Wesley Merritt, just placed for the rest of his life on the retired list at $5,525 a year, after his repeated declaration that "we have outgrown the constitution" and "it is not worth time to discuss it."
5. Condemns censorship of the press in the Philippines.
6. Condemns McKinley and approves Bryan.
But by far the most signal feature of the proceedings was the speech of Mr. Guyot, a delegate from Colorado, who served one year as a private soldier in the Philippines and said:
"To my knowledge the operations carried on by the administration in the Philippines constitute THE MOST DAMNABLE CRIME IN THE HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. The Filipinos assisted us to land, they were in the trenches with us, they directed our fire upon the Spanish, and yet, it is said they were not our allies! They were our allies, and the entire record of the administration in the Philippines has been one of treachery and deceit. Could you have seen, as I have, the conditions of the Philippines, you would not hesitate for a moment to endorse W. J. Bryan."
This anti-imperial national convention at Indianapolis is the turning point of the whole campaign and presidential canvass that defeats McKinley and elects Bryan. Where would McKinley have been few years ago but for the Democrats who supported him and are now as solid as a rock for Bryan, and but for the constitutional Republicans of a life-time, like Ex-Gov. Boutwell. who then sustained him, in the belief that he would be true to the principles which he now repudiates and Bryan espouses and thus forces them to vote for Bryan in order to be true to themselves.
Political Notes.
Traveling men say that the country will be surprised at the strength that Mr. Bryan will show himself possessed of when the votes are counted. They declare that they only mildly hyperbolize when they say that everybody is for him.—Binghamton Leader.
The extraordinary exertions of the Republicans, thus early in the campaign, show that they have no faith in their ability to win, notwithstanding their reiterated expression of confidence.—Brooklyn Citizen.
The administration's course in the matter of the disputed boundary [Alaska-Canada] has been one to merit condemnation and is by no means the least of the faults which will have to be remedied in the future.—Auburn Bulletin.
Four years ago Samuel J. Randall, son of ex-Speaker Randall, supported McKinley. This year he has offered his services to the Democratic campaign committee and will take the stump for Bryan. He sees disaster to the country in the policy of imperialism.—Oswego Palladium.
Senator Mark Hanna may take the stump to advocate the election of William McKinley. Perry S. Heath says that there is a general demand for Mr. Hanna. Just the same the national committee will display wisdom in deciding to keep Hanna at work at headquarters. He is not calculated for the work of a successful spellbinder.—Buffalo Review.
Governor Roosevelt's characterization of the 6,500.000 men who supported Mr. Bryan in 1896, as those who "stand for lawlessness and disorder, for dishonesty and dishonor, for license and disaster at home and cowardly shrinking from duty abroad" seems likely to help the Republican cause about as much as did Burchard's denunciation of Democracy as the party of rum, Romanism and rebellion.—Ithaca Democrat.
While a force of a million American young men could be quickly raised for a patriotic purpose, the number willing to lose their individuality in the regular army and serve in pestilential, tropical climates simply to serve the ends of imperialistic schemers, is proved to be small. The fact to be faced is that if the expansion craze is not checked by the tribunal of the people, its necessities will be likely to enforce conscription. That is not a pleasing thing to contemplate, or a safe one for the permanency of our free institutions.—Buffalo Courier.
HERE AND THERE.
The Cortland fair closes this afternoon.
The Normal and city schools will soon begin.
The state fair at Syracuse takes the crowd next week.
A few more white wings on the pavements of Cortland would be more conducive to comfort for the earthly inhabitants.
Don't hang out a flag this campaign with the picture of your favorite candidate on it, because yon will violate the law if you do. A law was passed in 1899, prohibiting the putting of anything of an advertising nature on the American flag.
According to a Binghamton dispatch the farmers in that section have agreed to abide by a plan formulated by the Five States Association to establish retail milk routes in New York city and furnish milk routes direct to the consumer. This scheme, it is said had been under discussion for some time but secretly, as its projectors feared that if all the details were known, the milk exchange would make some move to bar them out of the metropolis. The plan is to supply the milk to the consumer at 6 cents per quart, thus doing away with the middle-mans profit.
The Cortland firemen have very generally attended the state convention at Syracuse this week.
Providence smiled very kindly on the Cortland county fair this year, furnishing the finest variety of weather.
Nearly every Groton-ave. citizen wears a smiling countenance since the paving company began work Tuesday morning.
The Warren-Scharf Paving company have an office in the Taylor portion of the Grand Central, over Bristol's clothing store.
A panel of trial jurors will be drawn at the county clerk's office next Thursday to serve at a term of county court beginning Sept. 17.
The W. C. T. U. fed nearly five hundred people at dinner on the fair grounds Wednesday and in the afternoon sold $60 worth of ice cream.
The Traction company have been using the Groton and Homer-ave. line during the fair this week. The track in Groton-ave. will soon be taken up entirely.
Fred Chapman was arrested at Harford Wednesday afternoon for stealing a horse from E. E. Lamb, who lives east of McGrawville. He was lodged in jail the same evening.
Cortland will have at least one representative in the Chinese imbroglio. Fred D. Pierce, who has been in the hospital corps at Porto Rico, having been ordered to the land of tea and rice.
M. W. Giles, who has for several years managed the Cortland branch store of R. A. Stowell & Co., having been half owner since 1895, has bought his partner's interest and will hereafter conduct the business alone at the same stand, 37 Main-st. Mr. Giles is a thorough business man and enjoys the confidence of the trading public.
Hay is selling here for $16 a ton and many refuse to sell what little they have for market at half price, claiming it will go much higher. We will agree to balance accounts with our worst delinquent if he will bring us a few tons of choice hay on account. We can use the hay anyway; delinquent or not, just bring it on and put in our barn. We pay market price which in the opinion of many is at about top notch now.
Kennedy Brothers got their automobile together and were out for a trial spin before daylight Wednesday morning. It is a nicely finished machine to look at and seems practical in operation. There is certainly plenty of power and at the same time absolute control. They have put much ingenuity and money into this, the first automobile built in Cortland, but the result seems to justify them. Its running is steady and practically noiseless.
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