XXXII THE SOLID SOUTH. FUTURE OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY




PREFACE


The author of this book is one of the few remaining links in the chain
by which the present generation is connected with the reconstruction
period,--the most important and eventful period in our country's
history.

What is herein recorded is based upon the author's own knowledge,
contact and experience. Very much, of course, has been written and
published about reconstruction, but most of it is superficial and
unreliable; and, besides, nearly all of it has been written in such a
style and tone as to make the alleged facts related harmonize with what
was believed to be demanded by public sentiment. The author of this work
has endeavored to present _facts_ as they were and are, rather than as
he would like to have them, and to set them down without the slightest
regard to their effect upon the public mind, except so far as that mind
may be influenced by the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the
truth. In his efforts along these lines he has endeavored to give
expression to his ideas, opinions and convictions in language that is
moderate and devoid of bitterness, and entirely free from race
prejudice, sectional animosity, or partisan bias. Whether or not he has
succeeded in doing so he is willing to leave to the considerate
judgment and impartial decision of those who may take the time to read
what is here recorded. In writing what is to be found in these pages,