Exit Adlai

On Nov. 5, while most Democrats were grieving over the outcome of the presidential campaign, Adlai Stevenson lamented Republican William Stratton's victory in the Illinois gubernatorial race. Half to himself, the defeated Democratic presidential candidate said again & again: "I know I could have been elected governor."

Last week Stevenson repeated the same thought in another way. In his farewell radio speech as governor of Illinois, he said: "I would like to talk to you about ... all the things that have made these four relentless years in Springfield the best in my life. You would understand better then why I am so grateful for the opportunity you, the people, gave me, and why I wanted so desperately to continue here in Springfield."

Stevenson had his emotions well in hand, however, early this week when he went down to Springfield's Armory for his successor's inauguration. Impassively he watched Stratton take the oath of office. Then he headed off for his Libertyville farm which he planned to share with his tenant, Marshall Field Jr., an Ike supporter. Early in March, Adlai Stevenson will leave for a three-or four-month tour of the Far East.

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