Page:The autobiography of a Pennsylvanian.djvu/492

 “He was executor for David Jayne and, thereafter, was thrifty and saving.”

“I suppose he had good information as to investments,” he added with a twinkle.

“I am not one of those,” said I, “who believe that the Philippines ought to be surrendered. Nations as well as men have to meet their fate. We have them and ought to take care of them.”

“That is my opinion,” said he, decidedly, “and I shall do all I can to have the Panama Canal finished while I am President. The resolution of Congress at the outset of the Spanish War announcing a policy as to Cuba in the event of success was a great blunder.”

This is one of my own pet views and I strongly assented, adding: “Mr. McKinley ought never to have tied himself up with his proclamation.”

“I see by the newspapers,” said I, “that you are going to appoint Senator Knox Secretary of State. If it be true, I am much pleased. Now do not tell me anything.”

“I am going to appoint him,” he replied with emphasis.

“You know him well?”

“Quite well; I appointed him to the Senate.”

“So you did.”

“You may be able to do something with those people in the South. Their interests are sure to get away with their prejudices, and it may come in your administration,” I suggested.

“I hope it does,” and turning to Budd, who is a Democrat, he added, “Democracy is nothing but a memory.”

He impressed me as being sane, vigorous and good-hearted, and I feel assured that his administration will be successful.

On Saturday evening, March 12, 1910, Mrs. Pennypacker and myself, as the guests of Mr. Shelly, occupied a 472