There is a medieval Roman proverb in connection with the election of Popes, to the effect that "he who goes into the conclave a pope, comes out a cardinal." This phrase has a parallel application in American politics. It is well-known that the candidate for the presidential nomination who receives too large a lead is likely to excite jealousy. The result frequently is a coalition to stop him even at the cost of nominating a weaker candidate, true particularly in the Democratic party. And in the past it has often kept it from victory. The deadlock caused by the Smith forces in the determination to stop McAdoo in 1924 eventually lead to the choice of a little known figure, and disastrous defeat.

The fear that Gov. Roosevelt's candidacy has given rise to a similar situation is not without basis. The abnormal crop of favorite sons, sometimes several in a single state, and most of them without the slightest hope of nomination, can have no other source. The formation of a coalition against Roosevelt would depend largely on the support of nominal leaders of the party, Smith and Rascob.

In regard to Smith, the present sentiment of the party seems to be that he had had his opportunity, and fairness requires that Roosevelt be given his. Probably Smith at present has just enough strength to stop the nomination of his former ally, though hardly enough to be chosen himself. It is possible to sympathize with Smith's desire for another attempt at the presidency, and still feel that the party's aims would be better reached by another man. In some measure, the fate of his party will perhaps hinge on the struggle between ex-Governor Smith's personal ambitions and his party loyalty.