The result would determine not merely the control of the local administration, not merely the character of the delegation in Congress, but the future leadership of the Republican party of the State.

Simon Cameron sought a restoration to his old position of power by a return to the Senate.

During the five years that had elapsed since he retired from the War Department Mr.Cameron's supremacy had been challenged by the political _coterie_ that surrounded Governor Curtin.

They boastfully proclaimed indeed that the sceptre of power was in their hands and could not be wrenched from them.

But the reaction against them was strong and did not cease until Cameron had driven his leading enemies to seek refuge in the Democratic party.
In the West the hostility to the President and the support of the policy of Congress were even more demonstrative than in the East.