Epistles from Pap | Page 9

stipulation as to his income. I used it about
18 months ago, when he asked for my consent to their engagement, and
I have not been asked to change, so I guess they placed more stress on
it than I intended; but before I modify it, if that is the greatest barrier, I
concluded to write you, as to your approval of my plans, and your
judgment.
As a matter of fact, we all know that what it costs a young couple to
live all depends on their health and their inclinations. Aura May is
exceptionally practical, and with no heavier expense for rent than my
plan contemplates I think if Andrew has the prospects of moderate
living expenses, it is putting them to rather hard lines if they are
waiting to meet my early stipulations.
But I don't want to do anything to hurry them if you feel with your
knowledge of conditions there that my plan or their marriage this
summer sometime (perhaps as soon as a lot can be secured and house
built and ready for them) is not wise. . .
I have read the above to Mrs. Sawyer and she approves my sending it
and joins me in good wishes . . . Very Sincerely, F. P. Sawyer
(The reply made by Pap's father is not known, but the house was not
built that summer, and the wedding did not take place for almost
another two years)

CHAPTER II
: THE WILL ROGERS OF HOOSIER POLITICS--1913-1930
Pap was developing a successful law practice, but this was not enough
to satisfy his extrovert nature. He decided to go into politics. And it
became a long-term commitment. Between 1913 and 1951, Pap
attended every session of the Indiana Legislature, either as a member or

a lobbyist. He was elected to the House in 1913 and 1915, following
with two six-year terms in the Senate. In 1927, he was Minority Floor
Speaker for the Senate. He was never defeated in any of his races for
the Legislature, which spoke well for a Democrat running in a
predominantly Republican district. Pap's bipartisan equanimity as well
as his developing sense of humor was reflected in a letter of
recommendation on behalf of a young Republican who had the good
sense to vote Democratic.
Public speaking goes with politicking, and Pap developed a flair for
this too. He was much in demand as a speaker before service clubs and
other organizations, and his light-hearted, homespun populist style was
even compared to that of the great Will Rogers. Anecdotes of life in
small-town Russellville figured large in his material. The letter titled,
"Hazards of Trying a Comeback" is an example--this lengthy epistle
was by way of an apology for not being able to appear in person before
a group, but a version of it was undoubtedly spun from a podium or
two on other occasions.
Pap's sense of humor, generously tinged with irony, found other outlets
as well, including a gibe at a company that was making a big deal over
a small bill. But he could also be serious, such as when he wrote advice
to the jailed son of an old friend.
As the years went by, Pap found politics and public speaking more
time-consuming and less-rewarding, particularly when faced with the
obligations--financial and otherwise--of raising a growing family. He
did not choose to seek re-election upon the expiration of his second
Senatorial term, in 1929.
PROOF OF FITNESS
Greencastle, Indiana March 29, 1915 Honorable John W. Kern
Washington, D.C.
My dear Senator Kern: In behalf of Joseph R. Lloyd, of this city, who
informs me you suggested that he get his Representative (among others)
to address you concerning his desires, I am taking this opportunity to
make a plea that you recommend him for admittance to the U.S.
Military School at West Point.
You know, Senator Kern, I sometimes wonder if a letter of
recommendation is a knock or a boost in these days of wholesale
recommendations, they have become so easy to obtain. . .

However that may be, there arise occasions where it is a real pleasure
to recommend deserving young men . . .
As proof conclusive he cannot go far wrong after setting himself right
this early in life in the face of adverse precept and precedent, I can only
say Mr. Lloyd comes from one of the largest and most influential
Republican families in Putnam County, and yet, last Fall (his first vote),
he voted the straight Democratic ticket from top to bottom.
I am sure you will agree with me: If all the above be true, and our
young friend is unable to meet the full requirements of West Point for
admission .. . . the Academy should be abolished.
WHO'S WASTEFUL NOW?
August