Page:American Boy's Life of William McKinley.djvu/175

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OF WILLIAM McKINLEY
145

CHAPTER XV


McKinley as Prosecuting Attorney—His First and Only Love—Mrs. McKinley and their Two Little Children—The Home in Canton


Considering what was to come to him in after years, the office of prosecuting attorney was a small one to William McKinley, but in those days it appeared highly important, and he anxiously awaited the returns, on election day night. His political career had started. Would it come to an inglorious finish before the first goal was reached?

Slowly the returns came in, showing that his opponent was ahead. Then came in other reports more encouraging, and at last came the final and deciding votes.

"Hurrah, McKinley, you are elected!" shouted a friend, rushing up and wringing his hand.

"Don't be too sure," was the cautious answer. "Are all the districts accounted for?"