AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A PENNSYLVANIAN
taken, I went to Quay and inquired, showing him the receipt:
“Where did this money come from?”
“Since it has been paid and since you did not pay it, I do not see that the matter need concern you in any way.”
I never received the slightest explanation, intimation or even hint as to its source.
The motives which led to acceptance were blended. I knew well that there was the certainty of much discomfort and of financial loss. Even if nominated and elected, the office could be held for but four years and I was giving up for it an assured future. But I had a strong desire to test myself, to see what I could do upon a broad field in a place of real serious importance. I had the knowledge that two of the family had before been talked about for the governorship—Elijah F. and Galusha—and the feeling that to have one of us reach the head of the state would be the gratification of a pride. Above all was the sober and conscientious thought that Pennsylvania in achievement was above every other state and that when she called any man it was his duty, no matter what might be his inclinations or pursuits, to drop them like the wedding guest in the Ancient Mariner and obey. And:
| He either fears his fate too much, |
| Or his deserts are small, |
| Who dares not put it to the touch |
| To win or lose it all. |
There was a severe contest over the nomination, Elkin showing much strength, pluck and determination, in which I had no part or parcel. One of the men upon whom Elkin relied was Frank M. Fuller of Union town in Fayette County, and Elkin sent him the money with which to carry the county. Fuller decided to support Quay and asked the Senator whether he should return the money which had been received.
