Outrageous Imposition

That our present system of dealing out offices for political reasons is an outrageous imposition upon a long-suffering people is well illustrated by many incidente which occurred during the investigation carried on by Senator Hale's committee. One of the most striking is the exposure made of John Quinn, of Baltimore. We quote the testimony in ful], and it tells its own story of shame: " What is your present employrnent?" "Clerk in the Steamboat Inspector's office." " What are the duties of a clerk ? " "To make out permits for captains and mates of vessels to land, take charge of vesselB, etc." "Now, Mr. Quinn, take this sheet of paper and pen and make me out a permit." " Now, let me say a few words," said Mr. Quinn, as he shifted nis position, changed his voice, and leaned for.ward on the table. "I am not much of a scholar myself ; but I have a son who is a very bright boy, and he does the work. I always go around, though, and see that it is done properly." "Why was he not appointed, then, and not you?" " Well, they all seemed satisfied for him to do the work, - Valentino and Mr. Saville. They are both RepublicanB." " Could you write out a permit ? " "I have not written any permits." "What are you doing all this time that your dutiful son is doing your work?" "Well, I have some other business. I'm practicing real estáte." " You say you see that his work is well done. Who is more competent to judge, you or the son ? " 'Why.theboy." " You don't mean that you iitspect bis work ? He'd be more competent to in8pect yours." " Well, I just see that he is in his place." "Wasn't it an arrangement that your son should do this work ? " "Isaid to tliese gentlemen that he could do the work. I would not do it for the salary."