Now Nevins hides the flag, and as though a switch key had cut off the current from a dynamo, the confusion subsides.
Now only fitful shouts can be heard; they come like the final rifle cracks in a battle.
Trueman has gained his feet and stands erect, facing an audience that is already fired to the white heat of spontaneous combustion.
He is saved the necessity of working for a climax; it is prepared.
"Pennsylvania has come to this convention to be heard," he cries.
This happy introduction catches the crowd. They give a long, hearty cheer and then are silent.
"The delegates from the Keystone State are here to aid in producing a platform that shall contain the declaration of the right of mankind to labor.
"The work of this convention is not to be the single effort of one State delegation; it is not to be that of any prescribed body; but must reflect the united opinions of the American people.
"I shall speak, therefore, as a representative of all liberty-loving men, and shall express their hopes and aspirations as I have found them to exist.
"It is the ever constant belief of the people that popular government is the only form that is compatible with Divine ordination; that all men shall be protected in the right to live, to labor and to prosper according to their deeds and deserts.