Weekly Independent

OPENING CAMPAIGN.

The marshaling of the forces for the great political campaign of the year 1888 has commenced. The reveille has sounded and the long roll is beating for all to array themselves in the ranks of their respective parties. The banners of the opposing elements are planted in front of the people and they are called to rally upon the standard. The picket firing is heard in the organizing of clubs, the meeting of Central Committees, the ordering of the primaries and the calling of conventions. The great battle for the possession of the Government will be upon us. An earnest battle it will be, but a friendly one, each of the opposing forces claiming precedence of patriotism and each with principles of greater good to the country than the other. Each party has, or thinks it has, great interests at stake-the future policy of the government-the triumph of itself; the glory of a victory; the enjoyment of the offices, and the profit and position therefrom. No great interests are now attacked by either of the two principal parties, the contest being more theoretical, and therefore there is no occasion for the bitterness of feeling that has characterized former campaigns. We are believed to have entered upon an era of political good feeling, and while the coming campaign may be very earnest, active and exciting there is no reason for the spite of former times and there will be no excuse for the abuse of candidates or opposing advocates. We hope to see a lively and vigorous campaign. We hope to hear the principles of each party plainly and fully presented and respectfully listened to, and that upon a full knowledge of those principles best for our country and our State the voter will act without regard to former prejudices, family inheritance or party affiliations -Times-Review.