Keyser, WV Speech, 1896-09-30

Speech by William Jennings Bryan.

Speech by William Jennings Bryan
Wednesday, September 30, 1896
Open Field, Keyser, WV

Source: DELAYED BY FLOODS, Mr. Bryan Arrives at Grafton Three Hours Behind His Schedule, Omaha World-Herald (Morning Edition), Thursday, October 1, 1896

"I am glad that one of the richest men in your state is not afraid to trust the government in the hands of the people. (Cheers.) His position protects him from attacks which are made against me. He had been a senator for twelve years; therefore our opponents cannot call him an ignoramus or a novice in legislation. (Cheers.) His property interests protect him from being called an anarchist. I think they call us anarchists who have less property. (Laughter and cheers.) I am glad to find a man who has employed a large number of men who does not try to control their votes. (Cheers and shouts of "Hurrah for Bryan.")

My friends, there are two kinds of employers in this country—those who pay wages and receive work in return and are satisfied, and then there are those who expect when they hire a man to work for them, that the man who works will sell his vote as well as his muscle to his employer. (Cheers.) I want to on this occasion call attention to the difference between these men and a man like ex-Senator Davis, who thinks his men have sense enough to know how they ought to vote, as well as a right to vote for whom they please.

I want you to recognize the difference between that man as an employer and the others who are trying to coerce their employees and disfranchise every man who works for them." (Cheers.)