Lancaster Daily Intelligencer

The Lancaster Intelligencer.

LANCASTER, AUGUST 3, 1885.

Mr. Slaymaker's Task.

Our newly-appointed postmaster is said to be overwhelmed with applications for appointments to the few positions within his control. The number of those applying is doubtless increased by the general assumption that Mr. Slaymaker is such a Democrat as will prefer to organize his office from persons of his own political faith, and with whom he has acquaintance: and one who believes that, as the Republican postmaster here has always selected men of his political fellowship as his official agents, any other system of civil service had better be begun without discrimination against the party that has been barred out for twenty-four years.

The INTELLIGENCER has no personal candidates for appointment under Mr. Slaymaker or any other official. It hears of a great many applicants, good, bad and indifferent, selection from whom involves a large degree of responsibility, which Mr. Slaymaker has taken upon himself by accepting the position: and this responsibility he must take fully and discharge singly: and for it, being a gentleman of good judgment and positive character, he is well fitted. He is at full liberty to consult freely with all good citizens whose opinions he respects, and to hear patiently what can be said for and against those who claim his favor. But in the end he must act for himself and the appointments will be those of his own judgment and conscience.

He is entitled to and will be expected to choose, first of all, fit and efficient men; no others should be urged upon him. and if they are they should be rejected, no matter who urges them. An abundance of such can be found among the active, unfailing and unquestioned Democrats of this city. But when men present themselves and their claims for consideration, it is only fair that they should be subject to scrutiny. There are some Democrats in this town who vote the ticket or cut it to suit their own caprices, and there are others who vote it whenever they are paid for their service on the poll committee. All other things being equal, these gentlemen should put their claims on the score of fitness rather than on their work for the party.

There is another class who threaten if they do not get the place they seek they will never again vote the Democratic ticket. They can be spared.