government") sentiment had begun to gain favor, and public sentiment was starting to turn against the incumbent Democratic regime.

Brooklyn Republicans sensed an opportunity, but they were split between the "stalwart" candidate Benjamin F. Tracy and reform candidate Ripley Ropes. Low had no particular ambition to become Mayor, but his name was brought forth as a compromise, because his wealth and old family name appealed to the "stalwarts" and his reformist views appealed to the reformers. Low accepted the nomination at the Republican