A Voice from South Carolina

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1879 edition. Excerpt: ... number, were permanently excluded, on the ground of fraud in their election; and that old city has sent a full Democratic ticket in their stead--good men and true, --and some of her ablest and longest tried citizens. On one ground and another, the seats of certain senators were vacated, and these were promptly filled by Democrats--the Radicals, as in Charleston, making no nominations. At last, the sudden disappearance of the notorious Whittemore, from that body, gave the Democrats the majority there also. Whittemore's seat was declared vacant, and a Democrat has been elected in his place also. The most important action of this session of the Legislature, was the appointment of two able committees to sit during the recess. The first committee is to investigate the financial condition of the State, particularly her bonded debts. The second is to inquire into and bring to trial, all frauds, high crimes and misdemeanors perpetrated against the State, . under Radical rule. It was this last measure that frightened Whittemore off, and has caused many others to depart abruptly. But it is no part of the committee's duties or purpose to drive the Radicals from the State. So far from it, they are sending to the highways and hedges, and compelling them to come in. Their proceedings, of course, are private; but, from their success, thus far, and from the character of the tribunal, there is no doubt that their work will be thoroughly done. See Appendix. Our narrative now closes in the midst of this most stupendous revolution, and one brought about by means, apparently, so inadequate. It was the result of prudence, caution and long-suffering patience--qualities in which South Carolina has but recently been indoctrinated--all guided by profound...