Men who were in sympathy with a movement of this sort took a pronounced stand against the proposed Federal Elections Bill, and used what influence they had to prevent its passage; their idea being that, if passed, it would have a tendency to prevent the accomplishment of the purposes they had in contemplation.
Third, a group that consisted of a still smaller number who were Republicans for revenue only,--for the purpose of getting office.

If an office were in sight they would be quite demonstrative in their advocacy of the Republican party and its principles; but if they were not officially recognized, their activities would not only cease, but they would soon be back into the fold of the Democracy.

But should they be officially recognized they would be good, faithful, and loyal Republicans,--at least so far as words were concerned,--until they ceased to be officials, when they would cease at the same time to be Republicans.

Men of this class were, of course, opposed to the proposed legislation for the enforcement of the war amendments to the Constitution.
Fourth, a group that consisted of an insignificantly small number of white men who claimed to be national Republicans and local Democrats,--that is, they claimed that they voted for the Republican candidate for President every four years, but for Democrats in all other elections.

Of course they were against the proposed legislation.