Page:Felt’s Parliamentary Procedure Upload 2.pdf/126

122 ponents of the main question a test of strength at any stage of the proceedings without any risk to themselves or advantage to the friends of the measure except such as results from such an exhibition of strength. If the postponement is lost the opposition would still have another opportunity to defeat the main question when it comes to a final vote. This use of the motion is strategic one, valuable when the opposition is doubtful of its strength. On the other hand, in spite of the reasons offered against the motion to postpone indefinitely, it is, if properly used, simple and helpful, and it is, therefore, recommended.

Because the motion to amend is generally regarded as higher in rank than indefinite postponement, some authorities hold that it is not in order to move to postpone indefinitely while an amendment is pending; but that it is in order after the amendment has been acted upon, and the main question, either amended or not amended, is before the assembly. This, however, is not now the practice in deliberative assemblies, unless authorized by special rule.

(See also note to Sec. 73c.)  

123. Incidental motions (sometimes called dependent motions) are those which legitimately arise out of other questions imme-