The controversies, rivalries and jealousies that are inevitable in an assemblage of this character, are soon forgotten by all who have any honest faith in or real devotion to the principles and policies of the Republican party. Far above and far beyond any mere personal ambition, or the gratification of any individual interest, are the ideas and principles which have bound together, for more than thirty years, the greatest, purest and most patriotic organization of intelligent people ever known in this or any other land; an organization which found this Republic a collection of discordant States, and has made it a great Nation; which has exalted the American name in every civilized country in the world; which has enriched our history with deeds and names that will inspire youth and exalt manhood during all the centuries to come; which has never been ashamed or afraid to espouse the cause of the poor, the weak, the alien or the ignorant, and make their wrongs its own; which to-day stands for all that makes American homes sober, happy and pure, American industry prosperous and hopeful, and all who live beneath our flag secure and free; and which can be depended upon, in the future, to protect the interests of all classes of the people against the aggressions of corporate power. I have read the platform you have adopted. It is a notable declaration of just principles and honest purposes. My judgment approves it, my heart indorses it, and I pledge you, here and now, that whatsoever I can do to give vitality to your declarations will be cheerfully, honestly and faithfully done. I will not, gentlemen of the convention, trespass further on your time. You have duties to discharge, and you desire to give them your attention. I trust your deliberations will be pleasant and harmonious. I thank you, sincerely and gratefully, for the distinguished honor of your confidence, and wish you to express to those you represent my deep appreciation of, and thankfulness for, their constant and unfailing support. May peace, happiness and prosperity abide in your homes and theirs, and may that order, security and contentment which a law-respecting, sober and intelligent people can justly expect to enjoy, be the common heritage of all the people of this great commonwealth. REPUBLICANISM IN KANSAS. Speech delivered at Topeka, September 15, 1886.