Kerry, Edwards swap one-liners with hecklers

SEDALIA, Mo., Aug 6 (Reuters): From the platform of the same train car from which U.S.

President Harry Truman gave Republicans "hell" in 1948, John Kerry and John Edwards caught fresh jeers.

'Four more years," chanted dozens of backers of President George W.

Bush as the Democratic ticket emerged from their train late on Thursday and waved to hundreds of supporters.

'Flush the Johns," one man shouted.

Fans of presidential nominee Kerry and running mate Edwards outnumbered taunters, yet the scene was reminiscent of a rowdy hockey crowd.

As Bush backers again chanted, "Four more years," Kerry drew cheers by predicting the end of the Bush presidency on election day.

"Let them chant because they have only three more months to chant," Kerry said.

"Harry Truman came through here in 1948," Kerry said.

"And when Harry was talking, people would say, 'Give 'em hell Harry,' and Harry would say, 'I just tell them the truth and they think it's hell.'' Edwards maintained a smile but at one point asked, "I just want to say to those folks who don't want to hear from us: My children are on this train.

Show them some good Missouri manners." As the train pulled away, Edwards gushed, "That was great.

When they were booing 'hope' and 'optimism,' I knew it was an interesting crowd.'