Politics and Protection

Cambridge's gallant police force guarded both the people and the polls yesterday, but only through the kindness of the men in pin-striped suits who wield the city's power. With their colorful ties carefully knotted, the City Councilmen trouped into their meeting this Monday for a pre-election fan-fare. Also on hand was Police Chief Patrick F. Ready, who settled into his chair as the meeting came to order.

'I'm afraid too many of our police will be stationed at the polls," complained Councilman Edward J. Sullivan. "Just how many will be patrolling the streets during the day and night of the elections?"

"Enough," replied Chief Ready

"Now look, Chief," said Sullivan, looking up, "I mean exactly (his finger pointing for emphasis) how many?" Chief Ready glanced out the window.

"Enough," be yawned.

Sullivan, twisting about to catch the reaction of the presiding Mayor, got a favorable nod. He loudly requested the definite number of policemen twice more. Ready stood by his conviction that "enough" was a number. At this point Sullivan stood up and leaned across his desk toward Chief Ready.

"I say there will be one policeman and two patrol cars on the street election day," be shouted. "And even this is not enough protection. Somebody could get hurt, and I say if it costs us $1000 or even $10,000 in overtime pay they deserve and must get protection... our citizens..."

"You make a lot of noise," said Ready. "Tomorrow there will be a big headline in some local newspaper, and that's the only reason you brought up this controversy." Sullivan jumped up for a retort, while the Council roared with side comments. But the presiding Mayor silenced the group.

"Chief," the Manager said, "you can't be saying a Councilman has ulterior motives for bringing up problems in these meetings." Sullivan was busy gathering his notes and soon asked permission for another comment.

"Any act of mine," said Sullivan angrily, "has always been in the interest of the people of Cambridge. Any day that a Councilman is not able to present an issue before the Council Meeting we might just as well pack up and leave." The meeting was then adjourned.

As the members packed their brief-cases, a small man with white hair and silver-rimmed glasses approached a reporter.

"You represent a local paper, don't you?" he asked. Encouraged by an affirmative answer, he handed over a small engraved card.

"Don't forget to mention that I presided in Foley's absence." The card read, HYMAN PILL, vice-mayor.