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Show THE THREE-RING CIRCUS 229 Day), and the committee might not get another oppor- tunity to vote on the bill during the remainder of the 1950 session. Both Redden and Murdock now looked fearful and perplexed. They had expected Poulson and Engle to fight against the bill being brought to a final vote. Things began to move fast. Redden, believing he could not back down, again asked for a final vote. Rep. Crawford objected. Rep, Saylor objected to rushing the matter.332 Poulson stepped aside to have a private conversation with Engle. Again Redden moved for a final vote. Poulson turned to Rep. Morris, perhaps the staunch- est supporter Murdock had, and said: "Go ahead and second the motion, Mr. Morris." 332 His voice was that of a man daring Morris to take the step. "You cannot tell me what to do about seconding the motion," Morris replied in anger. Two strong forces stood facing each other. But the showdown did not come. The objections of Reps. Saylor, Crawford and others prevailed. They demanded that the bill be properly read, that all proposed amendments be properly considered, that all procedures be conducted strictly within the rules of the House. The committee adjourned until September 15. Engle and Poulson left the room feeling they had won an important round. Murdock departed with deep con- cern marking his face. The committee didn't meet September 15. Although Congress continued in session, many members were home mending political fences and preparing for the November elections. |
