Dry Tail

A handful of important Republicans went to Topeka last week to tell Charles Curtis that he had been renominated for the Vice-Presidency. They did not refer to the fact that about 35% of the delegates at the Chicago convention voted against him for a second term. Comfortably full of Senator Arthur Capper's luncheon, the Vice President received the news on the north steps of the State capitol. That location was chosen for economy's sake, as no expensive awning was needed to shade the notifiers. With the Vice President were his sister, Mrs. Dolly Gann; his daughter, Mrs. Leona Knight; his rambunctious son Harry. On the lawn were 5,000 spectators. Nominee Curtis made a speech. It was broadcast over 48 stations but omitted from New York and Chicago.

A possible reason for these omissions appeared when, as a native Kansan, Vice President Curtis declared himself Dry. Said he: "I am a strong believer in the rule of the majority but I am opposed to the return of the saloon and the repeal of the 18th Amendment." Wet Republican editors tush-tushed the vice-presidential nominee for failing to stand by President Hoover's State option formula. Gleefully exclaimed Democratic Chairman Farley: "It looks as if the Republican ticket had a half-dry head and a dried-out tail."

Last week it was announced that Nominee Curtis, as in 1928, would make an extensive campaign while Nominee Hoover keeps busy at the White House. As a stumpster Mr. Curtis evolves one standard speech for all occasions. Curtisisms from last week's acceptance address which voters will probably hear over & over:

"Dull would I be in feeling did I fail to express gratitude for this generous manifestation of friendship. ..."

"As that great protectionist, our martyred President William McKinley said. . . ."

"The women of our country have made

a great fight and accomplished much . . ."

"The rise of organized labor is the story of muscle and brawn united with intelligence. . . ."

"I have great faith in the future of our wonderful country. ..."

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