Rensselaer Journal, Volume 11, Number 26, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 5 December 1901 — McKinley and a Reporter. [ARTICLE]

McKinley and a Reporter.

During one of his congressional campaigns he was followed from place to place by a reporter for a paper of opposite political faith, who is described as being one of those “shrewd, persistent fellows who are always at work, quick to see an opportunity, and skilled in making the most of It.” While Mr. McKinley was annoyed by the misrepresentation to which he was almost dally subjected, he could not help admiring the skill and persistency with which he was assailed. His admiration, too, was not unmixed with compassion, for the reporter was ill, poorly clad, and had an annoying cough. One night Mr. McKinley took a closed carriage for a near-by town at which he was announced to speak. The weather was wretchedly raw and cold, and what followed is thus described: He had not gone far when he heard that cough, and knew that the reporter was riding with the driver in the exposed seat. The major called to the driver to stop, and alighted. “Get down off that seat, young man,” he said. The reporter obeyed, thinking the time for the major’s vengeance had come. “Here,” said Mr. McKinley, taking off his overcoat, “you put on this overcoat and get into that carriage.” "But, Major McKinley,” said the reporter, “I guess you don’t know who I am. I have been with you every time you spoke and I am going over tonight to rip you to pieces if I can.” “I know,” said Mr. McKinley, “but you put on this coat and get inside, and get warm so that you can do a good Job.” —Chautauquan.