would not have it, and again he was overruled, i ▲ spite of his appeals. Finally there was a roll-call and, McKinley insisting that his name be not voted for, was elected. In that Chicago convention McKinley made a name. He assumed the duties of leader of the Blaine men at one time and prevented an adjournment that was hostile to Blaine and Blaine was nominated. He wrote the platform that year, as chairman of the committee on resolutions. This was his first leadership in national politics. He had made himself famous in that convention.

RESIDENCE OF THE LATE J. A. SAXTON, MRS. MCKINLEY'S FATHER.

CHAPTER IV.

First experience as a candidate for the Presidency-Trying times and personal triumph in Chicago-Prosperity under the McKinley Law-Gerrymandered out of Congress-Governor of Ohio.

In 1888 Ohio went to Chicago solid for John Sherman. Difficulties had been patched up and Ohio for the first time in years was united. Two Ohio men were particularly prominent in their

efforts for Sherman. These were Foraker and McKinley. Each was considered at different times. during the convention as a Presidential possibility. McKinley was more prominent in that connection and he there declined to be presented as a candidate. It will be recalled that there were a number of Presidential candidates, including Sherman, Harrison, Gresham, Depew, Allison, and Alger. The contest was rather prolonged. There was a strong sentiment for Blaine, but he prevented any action on his name by a cablegram from Scotland. During the fight Ohio stood solidly for Sherman. Foraker was chairman of the delegation. McKinley was recog nized as a force, and was roundly cheered whenever he came into the hall.

As the contest went on it seemed as if a solution

would be difficult.

weary of balloting. for a dark horse.

The convention was becoming There was an admirable chance When it came to the sixth ballot some one voted for the Major. The convention cheered. Then he was given seventeen votes by a State following. It looked as if McKinley would be the man. It seemed impossible to prevent it. It was recognized that he was able and brilliant, safe and sound on all political subjects. His labor for Sherman, his pleas for the Ohio Senator as he went from delegation to delegation, had won him support for himself.

It was a most trying time for the Ohio protectionist. He was then but forty-five years old, and seemed younger, as with pallid face he stepped on a chair. His frock coat was buttoned tightly around him. His eyes flashed forth the fire that is so characteristic of them, when he is in earnest. There was a stern look in his face. The convention was silent. The buzz had ceased. Delegates and spectators leaned forward to catch what he was about to say. There was a feeling that he was about to relinquish the Presidential prize, that he was to sacrifice ambition to gain renown by faithfulness to a trust. As he spoke his voice rang through the great auditorium. There was a defiant tone to it. It was commanding. It was irresistible. He said:

"Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Convention: I am here as one of the chosen representatives of my