Farnum's friends could
only affirm their faith in him or surrender. Some gave way, some
stood firm. The lobbyists and the opposition went about with
confident, "I-told-you-so" smiles writ large on their faces.
Within a few days it became apparent that the reform bill would be
defeated in the senate. Its fate had been so long tied up with the
people's belief in Jeff that with his collapse the general opinion
condemned it to defeat. Its friends hung back, unwilling to risk a
vote as yet.
The situation called for a leader and developed one. James Farnum
stepped into the breach and took command. In a ringing speech he
called for a new alignment. He would yield to none in the devotion
he had given to House Bill Number 33. But it needed no prophet to
see that now this amendment was doomed. Better half a loaf than no
bread. He was a practical man and wanted to see practical results.
Rather than see the will of the people frustrated he felt that
House Bill I7 should be passed. While not an ideal bill it was far
better than none. The principle of direct legislation at least
would be established.
H. B. No. I7 was brought hurriedly out of committee. It had been
introduced as a substitute measure to defeat the real reform.
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