. It was seized upon by the Democratic leaders, as part of a plan
already concocted, which they then proceeded to set in operation. It
succeeded only too well, and I don't know when we shall ever see the end
of it.

We had more friends among the Republicans at the start, because all the
original Abolitionists in the State came into that party in 1860. Our
success had been so rapid and unforeseen that the Democrats continued
their opposition even after female suffrage was an accomplished fact;
but the leaders were shrewd enough to see that another such election
as the last would ruin their party in the State. So their trains were
quietly laid, and the match was not applied until all Atlantic was
ringing with the protestations of the unwilling conscripts and the
laments of their families. Then came, like three claps of thunder
in one, sympathy for the women, acquiescence in their rights, and
invitations to them, everywhere, to take part in the Democratic caucuses
and conventions. Most of the prominent women of the State were deluded
for a time by this manifestation, and acted with the party for the sake
of the sex.

I had no idea, however, what the practical result of this movement
would be, until, a few weeks before election, I was calling upon Mrs.
Buckwalter, and happened to express my belief that we Republicans were
going to carry the State again, by a large majority.

"I am very glad of it," said she, with an expression of great relief,
"because then my vote will not be needed."

"Why!" I exclaimed; "you won't decline to vote, surely?"

"Worse than that," she answered, "I am afraid I shall have to vote with
the other side."

Now as I knew her to be a good Republican, I could scarcely believe my
ears. She blushed, I must admit, when she saw my astonished face.

"I'm so used to Bridget, you know," she continued, "and good girls are
so very hard to find, nowadays. She has as good as said that she won't
stay a day later than election, if I don't vote for HER candidate; and
what am I to do?"

"Do without!" I said shortly, getting up in my indignation.

"Yes, that's very well for you, with your wonderful PHYSIQUE," said Mrs.
Buckwalter, quietly, "but think of me with my neuralgia, and the pain in
my back! It would be a dreadful blow, if I should lose Bridget."

Well--what with torch-light processions, and meetings on both sides,
Burroak was in such a state of excitement when election came, that most
of the ladi