Omaha daily bee. (Omaha [Neb.]) 187?-1922, February 14, 1888, Image 1
' * ' * trtT - ; . + . ILY SEVENTEENTH YEAE. OMAHA , TUESDAY MOISTING. FEBRUARY 14 , 1888 , NUMBEH.V241. THE MAINE MAN'S ' MODESTY , What the Nebraska Delegation Think of His Letter. A GREAT VARIETY OF OPINIONS. Borne Ucllcvc It ft Bono Fide With drawn ! ami Other * Only a Huso Comments of heading Newspapers. Dor * He Want the Nomination ? WASHINGTON BIIHEAU TUB OMAHA BKE , } 513 FouitTEENTn STKRBT , > WASIII.NOTOX , D. C. , Feb. 13. I Mr. Hlainc's letter withdrawing his name from the list of aspirants to tnc presidential nomination was not u great surprise in Wash ington , although it hui been the solo topic of discussion to-duy. Hero nro now located rep resentative men from every section of the country , and several authoilzcd mouth pieces of Mr. Hlnlnc. In secret ills intentions have been known to so many men in congress and around it that , generally speaking , they wore prepared for the proclamation , but there were few who expected it in such a formal way. . A very few republicans some advocates of Mr. Ululnc's rcnomlnation and some who were opposed to it regard the letter as but an ef fort to draw out an expression from the peo. plo and to shift the responsibility upon the party from Mr. Hlaltio In the event the nomi nation is thrust upon him now , but these men nre very few. Nine-tenth ! ! of the people ro- purd the loiter In peed faith , and as being Una ! . They rniv it Is the mature deliberation of Mr. Blaine and that ho has had this in contemplation for months Many republicans of national reputation while praising Mr. iilaino for his manly course in coining out early with this declara tion , thus relieving his party from any possi ble embarrassment and giving it ample time to select a candidate purely upon merit and acknowledging his strength , are turning their attention to the men likely to bo taken up for the candidacy. Senator Sherman is first mentioned by everyone , and then in order came ex-Senator Harrison , of Indiana , Sena tors Allison , of Iowa , and Hawley , of Con necticut. One tiling is sure , If Mr. liluino has not abandoned every hope of the presi dency , this letter will , in the opinion of the statesmen hero , take him clear out of the range of possibilities. It is conceded on all hands that there was no need of writing this letter if it was not to bo conclusive and sin cere. Therefore , the republicans arc almost unanimous in the belief that Mr. Blaine , after a year's reflection and consultation with his tried and true friends , has come to the conclusion , that for reasons satisfactory and personal to himself ho docs not want another race. Congressman John A. McShanc , who Is dis tinguished as the ilrst democratic congress man ever sent from Nebraska since she be came n state , was asked this morning what ho thought of Mr. Hlainc's letter. "I have expected it for some time , " said Mr. McShanc. "Mr. Ulaine is too keen and too shrewd a politician not to note the signs of the times. Ho lias seen the handwriting on the wall and decided that it was wise for him to seek shelter. So far as my own state Is concerned there will probubly bo great dis appointment among the republicans , who have for years attached themselves to the liluino boom and cheered and hurrahed with the procession. It will have no effect , how ever , upon Nebraska's electoral vote. She is so strongly republican that any republican nominee for president will secure a good ma jority. " "Who do you think the Hlalno following in Nebraska will now support ! " "Senator Sherman has many friends in Nebraska , and if ho were a man of more warmth would doubtless secure the vote in the republican convention from my state. There seems to bo a strong feeling , too , for General Sheridan. Wo have many Irishmen > u Nebraska , who went wild for 131aino dur ing the last canvass. If Sheridan were nom inated it is certain that a number at least of thcso would vigorously support him on the ground of his nationality and faith. So far us the country at largo is concerned , I bellcvo that Mr. Ulaino's withdrawal will give now spirit to the democratic canvass. My Judg ment is that ho was the strongest candidate which the republican party could have pitted. against Mr. Cleveland and for this reason that ho would have attracted , as ho did be fore , an immense number of votes of Irish men which arc usually cast for the demo cratic candidate. For all that I do not believe that Mr. Hlaino could possibly have been elected. His bugle blast for the maintenance of a war tariff , whiles it might have helped him In one or two states , would have , in my Judgment , detracted more from the republi can following tnan it would have added to its material strength. " "Mr. Blaino's letter will be a serious dis appointment to his strong following in Nebraska and the west , " said Senator Pad dock. "I look upon it as a patriotic utter ance from a man who more sincerely deserves that success of the republican party than ho does that of his own individual interests , hut whatever the motives which Induced Mr. lUIaino to take himself from the ticn T I do not doubt that ho is sincere in his declaration and that his name will not bo presented be fore the next republican convention. The effect of the letter upon Nebraska will bo detrimental to republican interests. The state will cast Its usual majority'for the choice of the republican convention , which , I believe , will bo the best attainable. There Is , of course , a feeling in the state in favor ol a western candidate , and William U. Allison would undoubtedly bo very acceptable to our people. So would Senator Sherman , for that matter , or General Sheridan , who is strong In the hearts of the old soldiers and would draw a good deal of the Irish vote. The re publicans of Nebraska , however , will cheer fully acquiesce in the best Judgment of the party , and Mr. Hlaino's withdrawal will onlj consolidate all Interests into a hearty support of the republican nominee. " Hon. J. Sterling Morton , of Nebraska said : "I do not think Mr. Hlaino intended tc bo considered out of the race entirely. Things looked n little bad. Ho had' a headache probably , something like the Irishman whc had been on a long spree. On waking up it the morning 1'at swore off forever. After t While ho saw : i hottln on the mantel , whlcl ho called the attention of his wife to , the fad that It contained whisky , that there was sugar in the cupboard and water In tin bucket and told her to makoupatoddy , britu it to him and 'Forco mo to drink it whether will or no.1 I would have preferred to huvi seen .Mr. Hlaino run against Mr. Clevolam on the tariff issue rather than anybody elsi because they both have deflneu their posi tion and there could have been no dodginj whatever. " IOWA. Representative Fuller , ol Iowa , said : "Mr Ulalno's letter is sincere and honest and hi : Withdrawal Is a wise and patriotic act. " "Do you believe that ho means what I' ' inysl" "Of course ; who docs not 1" "What effect will it have In your state ! " "H willnotoffi-ctus at all. Wo nave candidate of our own and it will crystalU nnd solidify public sentiment for Allison. " Representative Holmes suid : "Mr. Hlaino' letter relieves , the situation of a good deal o tension nnd I bollove thu success of the re publican party is more certain no\ \ thai he is withdrawn from the canvas even if ho should bo ultimate ! nominated. The charge that ho is not 1 earnest Is disproved by the fact tli.it it woul greatly prejudice him In the inlndaof all Jut men to indulge iu any by-play , and no on Unaws that any bcltcrthuu.Jnmcb G. BlaUie. Is Iowa for Allison I "There Is no doubt about It , He will com to thu convention with u solid delegation troi bis owil state , with a great deal of formldabl iupi > ort from other yai la from the ncylhw w > and from the cast , where ho Is popular. I think his prospects for the nomination are as good as those of any other man. " 1II.MNR ON THE PACIFIC. Senator Standford , of California , said ! "Mr. Hlaine's letter is , I think , a sincere ex pression of his wish not to bo considered a candidate this year. Ho probably had vari ous reasons for.his actlou , and nt least ono peed reason. There seems to be no doubt that he is out of the race. The people of the I'aclllc coast were enthusiastic for his nomi nation and would give him a larger vote than any other republican could pet. They now have no choice , 1 think , as regards u candi date , but whatever good republican is nomi nated will pet the full party vote. " now IT is IN MICHIGAN. Senator Palmer , of Michigan , said : "Mr. Maine Is out of the race. Sherman , Harri- n , Hawley and Allison are now good and itrong men to chose a candidate from. I hink myself that Sherman is now the strong * cut candidate. Ho certainly is In Michigan and probably the country at largo , " WILSON DOOMS ALLISON. Senator Wilson , of Iowa , said : "Ho Is sin- : cre , and his name will not go before the eon- cntion. Tlicro could .be no other interpre- ntlun put upon such n letter. Ho probably as good reason for his action , and the ropub- leans will take his letter as a tliuil deciina- lon in advance of the nomination. Mr. 11 nine's withdrawal will , 1 think , add strength o the candidacy of Senator Allison , whom he state of Iowa will present and support in ho most enthusiastic and earnest manner ) osslble. " SAWVBU'S PI.MX TU.K. Senator Sawyer , of Wisconsin , said : "Mr. Jlulno means Just what he says. Ho will note > o a candidate , and it is a good thing for the 'cpubllean party and ttio country that ho will lot. His withdrawal removes a sourcoof dis- : ord and the party will now bo united upon iomo good man and wo will thereby be much itronger , Who the nominee is now likely to > o I cannot say. Had Mr. Ulaine reu. ? < ncd a nndidatcho would probably have been uosil- atcd. " A TICMOCIIATIO TIP. Representative. Chapman , of the Detroit listrict , and a democrat , said : "Mr. Hluino s simply acting a little boy. Ho is afraid of Mr. Cleveland's strength and did not wish to ho too publicly a candidate. The demo- rats hope sincerely that ho will be nonii- lated , as wo can easily beat him in Michigan , us elsewhere. WHAT TIIC HOOSinil IIEI'UIII.IC\NS SAV. The republicans in the Indiana delegation , re , as a whole , inclined to regard the with- Irawcl of Mr. Blulnc as a favorable rrpubli- an symptom. General Hrowno said : "I .nticipated a kilter of declination from Hlaino , nd am therefore not surprised. Public men are generally misinterpreted and many will lay that this is but a bid for the rcnomina- ion , but , in my opinion , Hlaino is earnest nnd will stand out of the race. This leaves nn open field and now is Indiana's oppor tunity. Let it but endorse ex-Senator Harri son with unanimity and his nomination is assured. " m.Aisn OUT or TUB IUCE. Representative Owen said : ' 'The letter ilearly takes Mr. Hlaino out of the race. There is no use to talk about it being a diplp- nutic move , for he had the nomination in his , rasp. Sentiment has crystalled so rapidly n his favor for the past sixty days that if ho convention had been held on last Sutur- ay he would have been nominated without icrious opposition. Mr. Ulainc is out of the race. As usual ho creates a stir when no novcs. The party will readjust itself and lominato a man who can unite it and who , vill bo elected. " ooon Fen THE PAUTY. Representative Chcadlo said : "Tho lormal withdrawal of Mr. Blaine removes all so for any further factional controversy iVithin our party , and ought to inspire rcpub- ican managers with u high resolve to select a leader who can readily secure the united efforts of the republicans in all sections. To my mind his withdrawal will result in the lelcction of one who has not been heretofore prominently before the country as a candi- .Itite. I llml hero that it is conceded that our iekct should bo selected with special rcfcr- nco to Indiana , Now York , Now Jersey and Connecticut. These are the pivotal states , f Indiana republicans tire not divided they 'an ' name tlni'mon. " itEOAHDS IT susnctousi.T. Said Representative Johnston : "It may lot mc.in the absolute withdrawal of the Plumed Knights , although it looks that way. has been suggested that it may bo but notice that the nomination , If it is not made , jnust rest in its responsibility with the party and not Mr. Ulaine. 1 am really at a loss to know what it docs mean. Hlaino is a strong nan in our state. Indiana has now an oppor- unity to rally to her caudiuate , General liar- ibOIl. A invmn MANAGEU m'n.ucs. Colonel W. W. Dudley , ex-commissioner of pensions , said there could bo no question about Mr. Ulaino being out of the race. Ho was not surprised at the letter because ho had expected it for some time. Mr. Hlaino really docs not want the nomination , and his object in saying so at this early day is to give liis party an abundance of time to cast about jmd select the strongest candidates. General Harrison , in my opinion , " said Colonel Dud ley , "has a better chance for the nomination than any man in the country. It may bo Sherman , bat I believe the order will bo to take a now candidate , one who has never ligurcd as an aspirant before a convention. Indiana has only to act with unanimity and she can name the candidate , and I have no doubt that she will send a solid Harrison delegation to Chicago. " OTHUlt OPINIONS. Representative Jones , of Pittsburp , an in- Irnate-f riend of Chairman H. F. Jones , of the national republican committee , said : "I am bound to accept Mr. Blaino's statement that he- has withdrawn in earnest and I be lieve that it Is on personal as well a patriotic grounds. I am not much surprised , as I heard hints months ago that he intended withdrawing. The effect will be to encour age republicans to look around for the strong est men and to attach themselves to the best candidate. Hlaino had a wonderful enthu iastic following , a following that will bo loth to glvo him up. but it will have to look for another leader , and I believe it will result In the selection of the strongest possible can didate and ono that will win. Mr. Hlaino went abroad for his health. The letter means that he has been disappointed in his trip. " Representative Heistand , of Pennsylvania , said : "It is u good letter and means tnat Mr. Hlaino is out of the raco. He means busi ness. He is out and no mistake. I think it is a wise determination. It was a surprise to mo , but sluco the wilhdruw.il is to come it is timely now. It is well for the party's in terests. " Representative Fu-ntiar , , of Buffalo said : "I expected it , but not In such formal slyipo. It will give the republicans auvopportunity to get a concensus of its best opinion and to se lect a candidate without a struggle and purely upon merit. There will bo no senti ment about it. Mr. Ulnlnu is broken down in health. I knew bofoio he went to Kurope that ho suffered great nervous difficulty and felt sum ho could not stand another cam paign. The republican party has too many men of strong minds , too much Independent thought , to over get that discipline which keeps the democratic paity together. " Roprescntativc Harmer. of Philadelphia who has been an ardent Blaine man , said : "It will relieve a great many republicans who wore pledged to Hlaino and who would have supported him against their better judgment , I tool a freedom now myself and believe it will ho to the Interests of the republican party at large , for it now can act as Us impulses - pulses will lead it. " Representative Houtelle , of Maine , who i the most intimate friend of Mr. Blaine in this congress , was very angry whrn asked thlf afternoon whether the letter was written It : good faith. "That question , " said ho , "has boon put to mo a dozen times within a to\\ minutes and it makes mo very tired. What would you say if John Shcrmun would write such a letter. What ! That it was sincere and llnal , and that it took him out of the race It is an insult to Mr. Hlaino and his friends to intimate that he does not in P.I n what he says. Ho will not bo a candidate nndvil not bo nominated. Tills is no spcntancou' matter. It is not the rcsulkpf a day'a retire linn , but that of a j car. MivBluino Intondci writing th's ' letter before ho left for ICuropo but wa persuaded him not to do so. I knou of my own persona } knowledge tha since Mr , Hlnine has been in Kitropt ho hi > 3 written no ixiHtical letters . not even answering those of his ueA am closest friends. 1 have for Jour months bsei v. ritiiiu him uuJ gctUnjr the most f rouilnsn Maine republicans In the country to do so , urging him for the good of his party to not do Just what ho has now done. Mr , Hlaino is not as robust as ho was once and ho prefers to spend the rest of his days in literature rather than politics. But ho is the best re publican In America , and whoever is nomi nated will not only pet his vote but all the influence ho can wield. Ho is not n skulker. " Piimr S. HEATH. What Chairman JOIICH Says. PiTTsnuito , Pa' , Feb. 13. Mr. Jones , chairman of the republican national com mittee was Interviewed by n Chronicle-Tele graph reporter this afternoon on Blaino's letter of declination. Mr. Jones stated that Blaine was In the best of health and It was not for this reason that ho declined the re- uomlnaticm. "HJs trip" said ho , "has been wonderfully beneficial. " I have had many letters from him and in. nearly all of them ho ha % spoken of his health aud said he was entlrelj re covered. No sir. it Is not ill-health nor fear of the result , nor the worry and strain of another campaign which impelled Blaine to write that letter. As given to me at the time to which ho refers his reasons were hose , before the nomination by the repub- icans in 1870. Blulno was very anxious to ibUilu the presidency and worked 'or it. with the aid of his 'riends. Ho was disappointed when it went .o another man in the manner it did. In 18M ) ho was still anxious , although in lesser de gree , and his disappointment was less marked. "In 1884 ho had to n great extent lost his ilcsire for the oftlco and now ho withdraws from the contest because ho has no wish to become president. Ho takes a keen in.orcst In literary works and wants quiet and rest. I assure you thcso are the only reasons for Hlaino's letter that are known to me. Every body , sooner or later , loses dcslro for some thing which they \vero once anxious to ob tain , and this is entirely true of Blaine. " "Is not Hlaine's letter somewhat incon sistent with the action of his friends , pre sumably with his consent , in working for the control of the state delegations and commit- "No , sir , it is not Inconsistent. No such work has been done by us. Of course I have received countless letters on this subject from people north , south , cast and west. Blainu's friends have not sought to set up or secure n single delegate anywhere. Wo have made no concerted action. Thcro has been no meeting to map out a course favorable to Ulttinc , and I assure you that whatever has been done by the admirers of Blaine , has been done of their own account and not at the instance of his eloso friends. Wo have ilonc nothing to secure the nomination of Mr. Blaine. " "Was this letter l id before any meeting of liis friends or of the national committee. " "It was not. The letter was received by me Tuesday last , it having como direct from Florence to mo. It was entirely in Blalnc's iandwriting. As you see by its opening sen tence it was intended for the republican : iarty. I did not tell anybody of its existence intil Friday. It was given out on Saturday because many papers do not print Sunday editions and I was anxious to give it the widest publicity. I arranged to have it go out by associated press. Even men as eloso to Ulaine ns Stephen B. Elkius know nothing of the existence of this letter till this morn ing. " _ Views of New York Men. NEW YOHK , Fob. 13. The Blaiuo letter ivas the only topic of conversation to-day in nil public resorts. An evening paper quotes ex-Senator Warner Miller as saying : "In : ny opinion Blaine has concluded his nomina- ion would not harmonize all factions of the ; > arty. Ho is evidently sincere in his letter. " Senator Hawley was asked if ho considered ho letter as final. Ho said : "Thorocan bo : io doubt as to the sincerity of Mr. Buiino in his matter. Circumstances may arise that ivillcompol | his friends to refuse to accept this as a final answer , but that no ono knows any- .hing about. " Senator Halo : "I think ho is liuccro and means every word ho has written. I cannot answer the question as to whether I had any premonition of his intentions in this matter , but 1 can say positively that Hlaino was not anxious to run in 1884 and was urged to do so. He will return in June or July and when the campaign opens Hlaino will enter the field and speak for the ticket The Evening Post says : "Wo think Blaino's letter docs .actually make him out of the field as a contestants for the republican nomination for the presidency. Wo think that tins will bo the effect and result of it , whether ho so intended it or not. " Chauncey M. Dejiow said : "Mr. Blalnc's letter was a surprise and a disappointment to mo. It is , I think , to all his friends. I feel sure Blaino's friends will regret the step ho tins deemed it was his duty to take and that the majority of them will not con sider it final. Mr. Blalno's declination will : iot necessarily prevent his friends from nominating him for -presidency ; neither will it prevent him from accepting the nom ination should it bo given him. As for other pcsslblo candidates well , their na tional popularity will not bo known until the Chicago convention assembles. " Wlmt St. Paul Prominent * Think. ST. PAUL , Minn. , Feb. 13. [ Special Tele gram to the BEE. ] Intense interest is evcry- \vhoro manifested in the surprising change that has come over the spirit of the dreams of this great Maine statesman. Blaino's let ter of declination for presidential honors came like a bomb in the republican camps. No ono seemed to possess the slightest idea that the once great ambition of Blaino's lifo would bo shattered thus early In the race. His admirers hero are varied In their opin ions as to the meaning of his letter. Some accept it as a final , while others are wont to consider it ns a feeler as to public sentiment. Not a few are desirous of pressing his nomi nation , while others favor Sherman , Sheri dan , Gresham and Allison. The democrats generally contend that Blaine withdrew on ttio ground that ho would have no chance of success with Cleveland in the field. The fol lowing is what the leading republicans and democrats say on the subject : Hon. P. H. Kelly , chairman of the demo cratic committee Blaine is a cunning fel low. Like Tildcn in his letter to the Cincin nati convention , no one knows whether or not ho wants the nomination. Ho thinks his letter will create , n boom in his favor. Any way , Cleveland Is our choice. Mayor Smith , a icadiug democrat Cleveland - land can outtrotuny republican in the land. Hon. Michael Doran , democratic candidate for governor Cleveland can defeat any man jn thu republic. D. R. Foyes , republican It Is a wise move on Hlaine's part. Ho will gain prestige by remaining in the back ground for another term and allowing Sherman to come to the Iront. Channing Seubury , a leading wholesale dealer and republican I am glad Hlaino is out of the race and hope ho will remain in Europe until after the election. Sheridan is my favorite. Frank Seymour , Merchants' National bank I would vote for Cleveland In preference to Blaine , though a republican. Ex-Lieutenant Governor Giilman , repub lican Blaine is only working up a little boom in his own favor. Governor McGill If Blaine retires the party leaders will discover that they can get along very well without him. W. N. Seavereiico , a republican with con gressional aspirations Blaino's decision should bo agreed to by every republican in the union. His letter was the wlscbt act of his life , save getting married. State Senator Shcffer Blalne's retirement Is llnal , and Grcslmm Is the next best man. Dr. Pay , ex-postmaster Major Blaine told mo over a year ago that Jim was going to get out. lie is now doing so I uir. not glad nor sorry. Gordon E. Cole , an ex-Judge and leading republican- is fortunate for the party tnat Blalr.c has retired. Clcn. Averill I am a pcr onal friend of Bhiinc's. I'm sorry ho hus retired , and be lieve he Is homwt in his statements. Ctiptuin Hlakely , president of ttio chamber ot ouimnr.ivo 1 uni in favor of nominating Jilalucvicther hu wants It or not. M.OUU : , Govenw M. G,111'8 hand man I think Blalnc means Just what ho says. Chairman ClarkRon'n Views. DBS MOINKS , la. , Fcli ! 13. J. S. Clarkson , the Iowa member of thp national republican committee , in an Interview on Blalnc's letter of withdrawal this evening , said : "I have been expecting this letter for some time. It is in line with the letters I received from Mr. Blaine In November and December , which led mo to believe and say nt the national committee meeting in Washington nnd New York that I did not bclelvo he would bo In the field. The press of the country , led by tho. pursuing misrepresentations of the malignant enemies of Blaine , has refused to believe in the sincere and unselfish attitude Blaine has held toward the party. In 18S4 ho was not n candi date for the nomination ; did not really want it , nnd I received several letters Trom him in the wintci1 and early spring before his nom ination , strongly expressing a wish not to run. So far from directing his friends at the national convention that year , ho had com municated with them nnd not a word passed between him and any of them during the con test there. The masses of the party , not the politicians' , were for him and it was their moving forward that sent the delegates to Chicago for him. Before ho went abroad last spring he told mo of his seRled disincli nation to run and his wish to contribute in every way that ho possibly could to the uni fication and success of the party election of 1888. But people , still preferring anil believ ing he was defeated in 18S4 by the treachery of some party politicians , have been intend ing a move forward again and ro-nom- 1 nil to and elect him , and would have done so but for this letter. His action now shows a new greatness of the man. His devotion RS n republican has done much to disarm cmnity before ; this should certainly remove it "nil now. Ho will bo at the front for the party next fall , and Blaine republicans will bo for the candidate without any sulking , whoever ho Is. "Iowa has voted In three successive na- tl n U convent'ons for Blaine , and believes in him now more than ever. Now that ho is out of the field it will probably pre sent a candidate of its own. It has two very strong and fit men In Senator Allison and Justice Miller. Both are very strong in the state , but the senator from his closer re lations with the people in Inter years has a great advantage. There will bo no contest between them and the state will bo united for an Jow.i candidate. Senator Allison is strong in all points where Blaine is strong , including the Pacific states. Ho la exceptionally strong with the business interests of the east be cause of his level-headed and sagacious career In congress for twenty-five years. Justice Miller is known as a trusted counsellor of President Lincoln and of all republican presi dents since , and us- the first jurist of the country of the present age. The Indications are now that the party will take a western man for candidate. Sherman , of course , will move jwwerfully into the contest under the new order , but I believe the coun try will respond to other men nnd shut the choice , if made between western men , will bo between Allison and Harrison or Gresham , with Rusk , of Wisconsin , likely to develop great strength. Sherman is n strong man. but his age and the withdrawal of Blaine clears thofiold , for now aspirants such as the ones I have named in the west , with Forakcr added , 'and such men as Hawley loy and Hlscock in the cast. Thinks He AVI11 Run. PITTSIIUHO , Feb. 18. Joseph D. Weeks , financial secretary of the republican national committee , in comrnuntlng upon Elaine's letter , said : "I think Blaine is perfectly sincere in what ho Hays , but I do not think his withdrawal will -prevent his nomfnation nor his acceptance of the nomination if thrust upon him. The issue this your will bo tariff versus free trade , and as Mr. Blaine is the strongest exponent of the protective system now before the people , it would not surprise mo to see him nominated , in spite of all. " Comment of Leading Newspapers. NEW YOUK. Feb. ,13. , [ Si > ecial Telegram to the BUE. ] Commenting on Mr. Blaine's letter , thu Tribune , whoso editor has long been on terms of most intimate personal and political friendship with Blaine , and who doubtless speaks with entire authority , says : "A letter from Bluliio is published this morning and withdraws his name , so far as it is In his power to do so , from con sideration of republicans for the nom ination in their approaching national convention. This letter is no surprise to those friends of his who have known how reluctant ho has been from the outset to glvo the sanction oven of silence to tuieh consider ation. It is a simple fact that Blaine was al most dracooncd by his friends Inio the candi dacies of 1SSO and 1SS4 , and that ho has con stantly assured them that ho would not bo put in the position of ever seeming to seek the nomination. Wo regret the decision profoundly , since wo believed that ho would command more votes in doubtful states than any other republican yet pro posed. But various candidates , all excellent men and deserving well of the republican party , are actively In the field , and the next two weeks may bo expected to present some unusually lively politics. May the best man win. " The Herald says : "We accept the action of Blaine as conclusive , and , looked at from n republican ] x > int of viewit must bo regarded as wise , and wo might even say magnani mous. His nomination then ( in 1SSI ) was a mistake , and such a mistake as ho should never have made. The nomination belonged to Arthur from every sentiment of chivalry to a noble president and of approval of a great administration. " The Times says : "Blaino's Florence let ter will bo variously interpreted. Those who know him well and greatly admire him , to gether with those who know him well and greatly distrust him , will bo loth to accept it as absolute and final pntting nsido of the presidential nomination , which it is conceded ho might have. " The World says : "This letter has the air of sincerity nnd it may bo said that it in creases the presidential chances of John Sherman something Jike 25 i > cr cent. " CINCINNATI , Feb. 13. [ Special Tele gram to the BEE : The Commcrcal-Ga- ! zctto says : "The faultless intelligence of Blaine hus seen that ho could not go into the field without confronting personal opposition , re-enforced by all the timorous element in the party , and environed by all ancient ani mosities ; and ho luia concluded to disregard the expostulations of his friends and step asidff- trusting the party may find for a lea der ono w"ho , if not abler and more faithful than hrt , has noftUivdlopcd so many elements of personal opposition ' ST. Louis , Feb. 13. [ Spdckl Telegram to the BEU. ] The Republican ( democratic ) says : "Tho letter is apparently a pcrOrajitory declination of the honor of leading a forlorn hope , but tha manner in which Mr. Jones gave it to the press and the refusal to say what Blaine will do if his friends Insist on his nomination , seems to indicate that , though thu magnetic'inun from Maine is in retreat , he has not burned the bridges behind him. " The Globe Democrat says : "Wo are frank to say In so far us the withdrawal Is a sur prise to us it Is not a disagreeable surprise. It seems to us to make the republican victory more feasible and better assured , and this , to us , Is an object of much greater concern than thu gratification of any man's ambition or the elevation of any man to the presidency orto any other position. " CHICAGO , 111. . Fob. 13. [ Special Telegram to the BIE. : ] The Tribune says : "Tho letter is sincere. It was written without reserve. It will ho accepted In good fulth by the people. The party has no claims upon Mr. Hlaino thai it can seek to enforce against his private wishes. Though ho may not bo again a can didate for the presidency Vbe public will have the further sorvjics of ID Illustrious a citizen Whether it bo In the > onnto of the Unitet States or in the cabinet of the next rcpubll can president , Hluino will surely fill a largo plaeo in the history of the Unitei Stati-s that has . not been written.1 , COLWSIBCS , Fpb. 13. | Special Telbgra.rn to ho HUB. ] Concerning Ulnlno's letter , John Sherman said ho had been expecting some such utterance from Blaine for some time , and It was on this understanding that ho Sherman ) had entered the lists. Mr. Child * Is Wlllln' . CHICAGO , Feb. 13. [ Special Telegram to ho BEE. ] A dispatch to the News from Philadelphia says in spite of all declarations o the contrary George W. Chllds would like he presidential nomination at the hands of ho republican party , and that It is certain hat a party will 'enter the convention in his utcrcst. PIHK AT ST. PAUIi. Several Hundred Thousand Dollars Pestrojred Hy Flro nnd Water. ST. PAUL , Minn. , Feb. 13. Another disas trous fire visited the wholesale district this morning. The whole fire department of the city assembled at Ryan block , where It started about 0 o'clock this morning. The Ircmcn found great difficulty in locating the 11 reas the smoke increased. Despite the efforts to suppress the fire , the entire block , Ivo stories high , from 225 to 227 East Third street , was soon in its possession. The Ryan Irug company , next door to the fire , was damaged about $30,000 , wholly by water and smoke , and is fully insured. Footo. Schulzo & Co. , shoo manufacturers , carried u stock of $2bO- 000 or $300,000 , on which there was insurance of about $2(10,000. ( J , J. Watson Brothers & [ lyndman placed the entire Insurance on the building , the amount being $35,000. Only the walls of the building are left standing. Thcro is $12,000 Insurance on the machinery In the manufactory department. , The stock of Footo , Schulzo & Co. , is wholly wrecked , that which Is not burned being soaked with water. The fire wall which sep- orated Foote , Schulzo & Co. , from the Ryan Irug store prevented the fire from spreading nto that portion of the building occupied by : ho latter firm. Their stock is badly soaked uid smoked , but the firm does not anticipate ; ho figures will go above the sum first men tioned. The insurance amounts to about t2T > 2,000. The loss nn building and fixtures is fully covered by $42,000 insurance. Dentil of a Mlsnourl Journalist. ST. JOSEPH , Mo. , Fob. 13. [ Special Tele gram to the BEE. ] Colonel Frank M. Tracy lied at his homo in Troy , Kas. , this morning at 4:20 : o'clock. Colonel Tracy was well < nown throughout Kansas and Missouri. He served with distinction in the union-army ns colonel of the Sixteenth Kansas regiment. Ho was born in Rolls county , Missouri , Jan uary 3 , 1838. Ho learned the printing trade on the St. Joseph Gn/ctto nnd afterwards worked on thu St. Louis Republican and Democrat. Ho established the Free Democrat in 18. > 9 , nnd in 18715 purchased the St. Joseph Herald and was its editor until 188. ) when ho retired on account of sickness. Ho was regarded as ono of the most brilliant writers in the Missouri Valley , being both able and fearless. In 18SI while still editor of the Herald , ho was appointed by Garlicld liostmastor in this city , which position ho licld until his retirement from the paper. The newspaper men of the city will attend the funeral at Troy Wednesday in a body , nnd will present a handsome floral offering. The West Growing in Favor. KANSAS CITV , Mo. , Feb. 13. [ Special Tele- gramto | the BEE. ] J. L. Lombard , president of the Lombard Investment company , re turned from Boston and New York to-day. Ho states that stockholders are much pleased that so few foreclosures have been made in the western states where they have loaned millions of dollars. He says money is easier for legitimate use , but not for specula tive purposes. Western merchants nro being sought for by east ern wholesalers , showing the confidence reposed in western people. Ho says trade is quiet in the east. Bunks are not lending freely to merchants , which is the reverse in the west. Eastern merchants uro required to give collateral besides personal indorse ments. Ho says what is really needed west is more conservatism and less dcsiro to branch out too far in so many enterprises outside of their own legitimate line. Ho be lieves that spring business will bo good and that eastern capital will continue to flow west as heretofore. The Freight Itatc War. KANSAS CITV , Mo. , Feb. 13. [ Special Telegram to the Biin. | There is no change in the freight war. No roads are doing any cutting to-day. Still all agents are unsettled and very watchful. Cattle rates remain at & ! 0 per car , packing house stuffs at 12 cents. The feeling Is ono of uncertainty. A few agents stutu that fears are now that it will extend to passenger rates , when there will bo ono of the greatest railroad struggles ever known in this section. A Fight in a Dive. KANSAS CmMo. . , Feb. 13. [ Special Tele gram to the BBE. ] Late lust night a fight took place in a dive on Eighth street between the inmates and visitors. Knives and razors and clubs played leading roles. Tbo officers dispersed the tough pang , but the notorious Hicks Douglas , Rose Mott and Emrau Mont gomery continued until separated. Officer Davis had a thumb nearly bitten off by Rose Mott while putting her in the cell. A Young Woman's Sudden Death. ST. JoaKi'ii , Mo. , Feb. 13. [ Special Tele gram to the BEE. ] Sussuna Marshall , a young woman living at the corner of Fourth and August streets , was discovered by her mother about 2 o'clock this afternoon lying across a .chair in her private room , dead. Mrs. Marshall had left the room only a few minutes before , leaving her daughter uppur- parcutly well. The coroner's jury returned u verdict to the effect that death was due tea a stroke of apoplexy. Probable Infanticide. KANSAS CITV , Mo. , Feb. 13. [ Special Tele gram to the BKE.I While workmen were cleaning the catch basin of a sewer at Seventh and Grant avenue this morning , Albert ICcr- win found the remains of n baby wiappcd iti flannel , Tlicro was notiug on it to lead to the capture of its parents. Held For Manslaughter. KANSAS CITV , Mo. , Feb. 13. [ Special Tele gram to the BKK.I Green Patterson has been bound over to the grand jury in the sum of 81,000 charged with manslaughter. He kicked a colored gill named Katie Howard in the abdomen so that she died several days afterwards. A Disreputable Itunncr. KANSAS CITY , Mo. , Feb. , 13. [ Special Tel egram to tlio BKE. ] A runner for an em ployment agency , named Frank Goylon , was qabbed nt the union depot while attempting to puido two newly arrived countrymen Into a disrcpaUiblo joint on West Ninth street. He will bo prosecuted vigorously , . * Kaunas City Cnl'lc News. KANSAS CITY , Mo , , Feb. 13. fSj cchil Telegram gram to the Bnu. ] The Metropolitan street railway has let a contract for two Corliss en gines , 500-horso power each. Contracts for grading and construction will bo let to-mor row. Work on tlio.Maln , Eighteenth , Ninth and Olive street lines will bit very rapid , a the completion of the road is guaranteed by contractors August 1. Flro ill Brook field. BuooKFlni.n , Mo. , Fob. 13. [ Special Tele gram to the HEI : . ] Fire yesterday destroyed five buildings in the confer of the business portion of town. Owing to the hydrants ant liozo being frozen no effort was made to check the progress of the flames. The loss Is estimated at ? 14SOO. , Insured for nearly half. Itiirucd to Death. KANSAS CITY , Mo. , Fob. l3.-Spccial [ Tce ! 'granv to the HUE. } Infoviuatioa Is received icro that James McKclly was burned to loath at Dallas , Tex , , a few days ago. Ho was a bricklayer ami well known here. FIFTIETH OXOUKSS. Seiuitp. WASIIINOTON , Fob. 13. The address of the constitutional convention of Dakota was presented favoring division of the territory and admission of the southern portion an n state. The bill providing for n commission on the subject of the alcoholic liquor traffic was ) la'ced on the calendar. The following bills were introduced and rc- 'errcd : IJy Mr. Platt To prohibit members tcrri- ; orial of legislatures from holding office ; also .o pay $7,371 for the passage of General La- fayctto and family from Franco to the United states as guests of the nation In 1824. 0 Hy Mr. Sawyer Authorizing the appoint ment of eleven railway mall superintendents. By Mr. Vest To fix the number of docu ments printed by congress and known as tlio 'usual number" at 700 ; also to specify the lumber of certain documents to bo printed. After some debate the resolution was referred .o the committee on printing. The senate next proceeded to the consider ation of the Blair education bill , but after a few remarks by Plum was laid asidu mid the resolution in regard to the inefficiency of the .wstiil service taken up. After some debate .ho resolution went over and the senate ad- ourncd. _ IlOIIHO. WASIIINOTON , Feb. 13. Under the call of states the following bills and resolutions were Introduced and referred : Authorizing the election of a delegate from the Indian territory to the fifty-first cong ress. ress.By Mr. Townsend of Illinois Permitting farmers and producers of tobacco to sell leaf .obacco in any quantity to unlicensed dealers or to any person without restriction and re- icallng all laws Inconsistent thereto , A resolution Instructing the committee on ways and means to report what progress it IBS made in the consideration of bills repeal- ng internal revenue tuxes and to state at what time such bills are likely To bo reported .o the house. In case the committee is un able to agree Ujxin thcso bills it is instructed to report _ the fact to the house and tho' bills shall bo placed on the calendar. To prohibit fictitious and gambling trans actions in articles produced by American farming industry. Proposing a constitutional amendment lim iting the membership of the house to 250. By Mr. Brewer of North Carolina A reso lution instructing thu committee on wajs and means to report what progress it had made In the consideration of bills repealing in ternal revenue taxes and to state at what time such bills are likely to be reported to the house. In case the committee is unable to agree upon thcso bills , it is instructed to report the fact to the house and the bill shall be placed on the calendar. By Mr. Smith of Wisconsin For the es tablishment of a postal telegraph system. By Mr. Guenther of Wisconsin To regu late telegraph companies. Bills wuro introduced for the erection of public buildings at Galesburg , 111. ; Daven port , la. , and Eau Claire , Wis. The house then proceeded to questions per taining to the District of Columbia. The bill punishing the advertising of lottery tickets in the district was opposed by Air. Rogers , of Arkaasas , upon constitutional grounds. It would , ho said , prevent any pa per , no matter where published , from coming into the district , and would Infringe upon the liberty of the press. Mr. Brown , of Indiana , spoke In support of the measure. Mr. Cummings , of Now York , and Mr. Grucnthor , of Wisconsin , said that if con gress had tho'right to prescribe what should bo printed in the advertising columns of a newspaper it hud the right to exercise a cen sorship over the editorial nnd news columns. They regretted the growing tendency in this country toward the methods of monarchial Europe. Tlio bill was referred to thu com mittee on judiciary. Bills were passed to prohibit any person in Washington or Georgetown from making books or pools on the result of any races or games of base ball. Adjourned. - Mrs. Grant nnd MTH Cleveland. NEW YOUK , Feb. 13. [ Special Telegram to the BIK. ] A Washington dispatch says : There has been a civil war imminent here. Every effort has been made to suppress its mutterings. It seems Mrs. Grant , while a guest hero of Senator and Mrs. Stanford , called at the executive mansion. The visit was a formal one. It would naturally bethought thought that Mrs. Cleveland at least would have hastened to show her appreciation of Mrs. Grant's courtesy by immediately re turning the call. Mr. and Mrs. Stanford , however , as well as the public were shocked and pained that Mrs. Cleveland failed even In the common courtesy of leaving a card upon her predecessor. Some people at tempted to extenuate this rude and direct at tempt at n snub in tlio fact that Mrs. Grant was the guest of a republican senator. When , however , Mr. and Mr . McLean entertained the widow , the excuse no longer existed , nor was the return visit paid. Republicans hero are furious at the slight put upon Mrs. Grant nnd southern democrats delighted. Northern democrats uro ashamed. The latter pronounce - nounco it a case of too much training to please thu south. of Noted Criminals. ST. PAUL , Minn. , Feb. 13. Three prisoners Billy O'Connors , the no torious Minneapolis postoffica rob ber , Frank St. Clalr and William Thomas , both awaiting trial for highway robbery escaped from the Ramsey county jail at 7:110 : last evening and their absence was not discovered until about the same hour this morning. Tlio hour of their de parture was learned of Burlthardt , a United Status prisoner from Milwaukee , churned with passing counterfeit inonny , who was in the same cell with Thomas , and who refused to escape , giving as his reason he would prove his Innocence if ho stood trial. The escape was made by sawing four bars from the cell door , which let. the men into the upper corridor. From there the prisoners reached thu attic by sawing through eight bars forming the roof of the corridor , and turn cutting through the coil ing. A hole was then inudo through the sheet iron roof and a ropnmadc of hummocks was used to lower themselves to the giound between the jull and the court bouse. Murdered For Money , MAIIIIIRSA , III. , Fob. 13. [ Speeinl Telegram to the BEK J A tmriblo inutder for1 money was committed near hero Sunday , the victim bolng George W. Guthric , a wall known and highly rchjic'ctcd .citizen , at his residence lo cated two and ouc-liulf miles southwest of town. Early In the mnrning Mrs. Guthrie and other members of the family went to church , Waving Mr. Guthric at home. When they returned homo Outline was lyini : on the floor with his clothes saturated with blood from a wound In his breast , H was suspected at first ho biul committed suicide , but such suspicions were dialled when Mr.s. Guthrie dlMXJvercd that the safoin which the valu ables , and at times large sums of money , are kept , had been tampered with , but hud re sisted the attempts of the robbers. The pockets of the dead man hud been rifled ol island a gold watch nnd chafn. It is pre sumed Guthrie heard a tioise made by the robbers , and going Into the room was sliot through the breast. The uppeai-.nc'j of tin , room indicated u struggle. Dakota Unnlc Gocn Under , DtUmvoon , Dak. , Fob. VJ. [ Special Tele prutn totho { HKK.Tbo ) Central City hank of Central City , cloned its doors todayLUi bllltles , 130,000 ; assets , SEW.OOO. No taik : * in thin city O.V3 ( sfcctC'JL by the failure. ' DRIVING OUT THE GAMBLERS Sioux City Following the Example of Nebraska's Metropolis. GROCERS WIN THE POTASH FIGHT The Drug Stores Dc'IVntpd A Slom City Tcatihor Kliu-d For A anlt ItiK n Cripple A I'clhl Mill llunu'd. Tlio Iowa I Dus MOINKM , la. , Feb. III. In the scnaU Mr. Mills introduced a bill making nn appro- irlut Ion for the soldiers' homo at Marshall- own. Mr. Kelly Introduced a concurrent rendit ion that the Hccrotiiry of state furnish fet he use of the general assembly ! UX > copies ot tlio platform of the two ijro.it political parties if thu state for the year lbS7. After some llseussloii and amendments that the order ncludothii platforms of 1HJ4 and IbCS , the natter was laid on the table. The bill relating to the Issue of water works bonds by cities of the second class , wasod the senate with a slight amendment. The house resolved after the llith to hold two sessions daily. Tlio Groerrymen Win. DBS MOINI-.S , la. , Feb. 13. ( Special Tele gram to the Bii.l : : The grocery has mot the Irug store and wet ) the light. To-duy the eglslatiiro passed the bill permitting grocery nnd other stores to sell concentrated lye and ) otnsh. Some time ago the stutu pharmacy ward made a ruling that as lye was poison ous , no one but druggists could bo allowed to sell It and they must handle It with other loisons. Immediately there was u great out- : ry not only from country merchants but also 'rom their patrons who couldn't always thill i drug storu convenient when they wanted n , ittlo potash , so the legislature , soon after it net , took up the subject and kept at it till re * lof was afforded and the country grocery store once more enjoys its rights Will Dntcrmlno Their Dns Moixni , In. , Feb. lit. [ Special Telegram - gram to the Bii : . ] Tlio broad gunge street uilroad of this city , which has hud a long itigution with the narrow guugeorold street car company , scored a point to-duy. The de cision of tlio supreme court gave the narrow guuifo the right tq the streets under the old ihartcr for use of horses ns motive power , but it was inferred that electric or other notive power were to bo used by the new comtniny before it would bo allowed to oper ate. In order to get a ruling on this point from the supreme couit before making an in vestment , ono member of the company ap- ) licd to the district court Sat urday for mi injunction to re strain his associates fium introducing electric power. Bo hoped in this way to get the ease appealed to tlio supreme court and ; et an authoritative decision. The old. coin- wily opposed this and claimed it was a sham suit , and tried to have thu Injunction dis- nisscd , but Judge Kavanugh to-day decided .hat it should stand , and so Issued an mjunc- , ion holding that the new company could not use oven electric power , without infringing in the rights of the old company. Of course ho new company will promptly appeal and , uus get the casts iit once to the supreme court and find out what rights it has and then to ahead. It js regarded us u clover victory for the new company , and excites much 'com- ' ' ment. _ A Teacher Pined For Asnaiilt. Sioux CmIu. . , Feb. Hi. [ Special Tele gram to thoBcK. ] Prof. William. E. Palmer , > rineipal of the Wall street school , was : o-duy lined -10 for assaulting on the street , hreo boys who wore not pupils of his school. The evidence showed that Palmer dragged one of the bo.vs , who was a cripple , from iv sleigh and kicked nnd struck him. The school board meets to-morrow and it is said will dismiss Palmer from his place. The Thermometer Hapldly Falling. Sioux CITV , la. , Feb. Ul. [ Special Tele gram to the 13in.j : Reports from numerous points to-night show that a tttorm of almost Ili7zard violence has extended throughout central and southern Dakota. The thcrironv etcr hus fallen 20 ° heie , and tliero Is a high wind , but no snow us yet. A Mill Iliirned. PEU.A , In. , Feb. 13. [ Special Telegram to tlio Bnu.J Tlio flouring mill owned by M. C. McCombs , at Otloy , eight miles | northwest of this city caught fire at 10 o'clock last Sat- daylight from u defective flue nnd burned to the ground. Loss is about flSOO. Insured for 1,800 in the State Insurance company ol lies Moincs. _ Hlonx City innller.s Fined. Sioux Cirr , Iu. , Feb. 13. [ Special Telegram - gram to the BIE. : ] The proprietors of the eight gambling houses which were pulled Saturday night were in court to-day. Frank Sharp and "Stub" Wilson were lined $100. The other six wore also lined , but the lines were remitted on condition that they would immediately leuvo Sioux City. An Unknown Blizzard Victim. Dus MOINKS , la. , Fob. 1 ! ) . [ Special Tele gram to the BUM. ] At 11 o'clock o-day an unknown man , apparently fifty years old , und well dressed , was found dead live miles west of Aldcn , Biirdin county. On his per. FOII was an account book kept in German , bill no clue to his identity could bo obtained. It is supposed that ho is another victim of the great hlUrurd of January IB. i A Blast Fnrnaco For Duluth. UULUTII , Minn. , Fell. 113. [ Special Telegram gram to tha Bun. ] To-morrow morning men begin work clearing the ground and preparing for the excavations fo'r an eighty. ton blast furnace to bo built at West Duluth by the Unlon Blust Furnace company at onco. This furnace , which is to bo built on plans drawn by John Bickonbine , the well- known Philadelphia engineer , ix to bo a lln nnd complete affair and Is to bo of the best and most economical pattern. Thu plans call for a double eighty-ton furnaca and lull and sheet Iron mills , but only half the furnuco Is to be built at present. As soon as possible a force of twenty men Is to bo increased uud the work of construction will proceed rap idly. it is expected that the furnace will b In operation before winter. It is to bo ucok furnace and the coking pits arc to bo built near the furnaces of West Duluth. The capi < tal of the company Is f l.OOf OOO. The Visible Supply Statement. CHICAGO , Feb. 13. The vUlblo supply o ! grain for the week ending February 11 , as compiled by the secretary of the Chicago board of trade is as follows : Bushels. Wheat . 40,237.004 Corn . S.MW.OOO Oats . 5iw,000 ! : Hye . iWl.OOJ Barley . . . . . . . . 2,802,00 , Train Wreck. BKLVIDKIIB , N. J. cb. iy. A big wrecH ratified by a defective air-brake , occurred on the Delaware , Luckuwnnafc Western rail road this morning In which a cattle train wai telescoped and mariycuttlo killed. The roud is blockaded , Snowed In. WASHINGTON , Fob , W. Thereof of theord < r.uv.o building at the Washington navy yard fell In this morning , It being unable to supi port Ilia heavy weight of snow upon it. Tbl dnmugo- estimated at { 30,000 , ,