Convictions

Topeka, Kansas—In this state the frugal burghers and hardy rural yeomanry, when they are not just frugal and hardy but also politically interested, lend their lawns to a nice, colorful custom. They plant their lawns thick with little signs distributed by candidates. In the final days of this year’s election campaign some Kansas lawns sprouted bumper crops of such signs, proclaiming the merits of various citizens who, reluctantly but with a sharp sense of public duty, had decided to abandon the comforts of private life and serve their village, county, state, or nation. Among the signs advocating various Kansas statesmen were signs for a candidate (I do not remember his name or party) whose slogan was memorable. It went, John Doe has “The Courage of Your Convictions.”

I don’t know if that guy won or lost, but you have to admire how he played the game. All autumn cars passed those signs, and the drivers and passengers— Republicans, Democrats, liberals, conservatives, Bull Moosers, Bryanites, Bimetalists—were assured by the man’s signs that he was prepared to be courageous on behalf of their convictions.