On the other hand, the results of any peculiar efficiency and political wisdom would be equally conspicuous.

Men of integrity, force, and ability would be tempted to run for office by the stimulating opportunity offered for effective achievement.

Such a government would, consequently press into its service whatever public-spirited and energetic men the community possessed; and it would represent not an inferior or even an average standard public opinion and ideas, but the highest standard which the people could be made to accept.

Provided only the voters themselves were on the whole patriotic, well-intentioned, and loyal, it would be bound to make not for a stagnant routine, but for a gradually higher level of local political action.
II STATE ADMINISTRATIVE REFORM The foregoing discussion of the means which may be taken to make American local governments more alive to their responsibilities has been confined to the department of legislation.

The department of administration is, however, almost equally important; and some attempt must be made to associate with a reform of the local legislature a reform of the local administration.