750 State Papers and Addresses

THE DEMOCRATIC STATE CONVENTION

Emerson Hotel

September 18, 1942

Baltimore

My first reaction to the notification of nomination by this Convention is
one of sincere appreciation. It would be appreciation of a pleasant assignment
for which my personal thanks would be extended were it not for the seriousness
of the entire situation.

However, before making any observation of my own, commendation must
be expressed as to the manner which this Convention has functioned. The key-
note address of the temporary Chairman, F. Murray Benson, was of such a high
order that the Democratic Party can point to it proudly as a re-statement of
ideals and purposes which justify the support of the public.

The able administration by Mr. James Clark of his duties as permanent
Chairman also deserves our thanks. Mr. Edgar Allen Poe, as on previous occa-
sions, has generously placed my name in nomination. In view of the fact that
his predictions of success were borne out in the prior instances, I consider it
particularly fortunate that the nomination was advanced by this outstanding
citizen. Those who in making the seconding speeches indicated their approval
of the record thus far have our lasting gratitude.

I desire to pay added tribute to those achnowledged leaders of our Party
who have graced this occasion by their presence and participation. Included
among these is the war-time Governor of Maryland, the Honorable Emerson C.
Harrington. Another is the leading Party members are our two United States
Senators, Millard E. Tydings and George L. Radcliffe.

The Party Platform adopted by the Delegates to this Convention is a states-
manlike document which is a challenge to our best efforts1. While it is gratify-
ing to us of the present Administration, that approval is expressed of the past,
the Platform is more significant in its clarion call to duty in the trying times
which lie ahead. To the Delegates and to all citizens I express my readiness to
stand upon) this Platform and to strive conscientiously, if elected, to carry out
its various pledges.

Realizing as we do that the accomplishments of such a Platform require
much more than the action of one man, it is most encouraging to have as my
runnning mates two such well-qualified and proven officials as Attorney General
Willian C. Walsh and Comptroller J. Millard Tawes. The exemplary record
of the Attorney General and the competent administration of the Comptroller
combine to give assurance of their continued success after they are elected to
another term.