'5 ffSx"' THE PTCTSBTIRG DISPATCH, THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 1890. J'wt Ifje Btjga&fj. ESTABLISHED FEBRUARY 8, 1818, VoUH No. JJO.-EnteredatFlttsburg l'ostomce, yovcmber 14, 1837. as second-class matter. Business Office 97 and 99 Fifth Avenue. News Booms and Publishing House75, 77 and 79 Diamond Street. Eastern Advertising Office, Koom 48, Tribune , Building. Mew Tort. TERMS OF THE DISPATCH. FOSTAOK rKIE IN THE OT1XD STATES. DAILY DISPATCH, One Year. I 8 00 DAILY Dispatch, PerQnarter 2 00 lUTLT DisrATCH, One Month 70 Daily Dispatch, including Sunday, lyear. 10 00 Datxt Dispatch, IneludingSunday.Sm'tbs. 2 SO Daily DisrATCH. including bunday.l month 90 Ecxdat Dispatch, One Year 2 SO W ieklt Dispatch, One Year 1 25 The Datlt Dispatch Is delivered by carriers at 15 cents tier week, or Including bunday edition, at 20 cents per week. PlTTaBOBO. THURSDAY. JAN. 23, ISO. MORE PRESSURE HEEDED. The shortage of gas which was exper ienced with the sodden advent of the cold Wave, was not as decided ai some of its pre decessors have been. No considerable sec tion of the city so far as learned was left entirely withont cas and the prog ress shown permits the hope that the fael companies will in time attain the point of making such provisions for meeting changes to cold weather, as to leave no pos sibility for any failure of that most neces sary fuel. Tnis is an essential portion of their busi ness; and as tbey have been granted impor tant public privileges for the conduct of that business the public has the right to ex pect full performance. The reasons why gas pressure is insufficient with a sudden cold turn are various, but tbey can all be summed up to the effect that the gas con tracts and the demand expands. But with the knowledge of this in advance and with their own statement of an abundance of gas, it seems that the companies, with the warn ing of a cold wave, should anticipate the trouble by turningon an increased pressure. Borne of them appear to have done so yester day. Taken as a whole they met the de mand measurably better than on some pre vious occasions. But their full service to the public will not be done, nntil an ade quate supply of gas can be relied uponon cold mornings as certainly as a supply of meat from the butchers. If the gas companies cannot give their jiatrons all the gas that is needed, at the time when it is most needed, they weaken their own rigbt to exist. SLUE BLOOD OK TEE HOOK. Philadelphia is being shaken to its center, and the social pyramid from the Biddle foundations to the mere Smiths in the cap stone is trembling with a variety of emo tions. "Worst of all it is not very clear even to the most agitated what in thunder has occurred. Two things may have hap pened, each of awfnl importance. Either the ruling princes of Philadelphia have been snubbed by the Astors, the Vander bilts, and the McAllister, or their mighty highnesses of New York have been snubbed by Philadelphia. Anyone with half an eye can see what awful consequences may follow in either case. It is no subject to jest upon. The social atmosphere of New York and Philadelphia may be dyed blue with the blood of the haughtiest aristocrats at any moment. How did this come about? Some say the representatives of New York's Four Hun dred were invited to the Assembly ball, in Philadelphia, and didn't come though they visited the village by the Delaware that night. Others say but what matters the details of the gossip? The potent fact is that there is war between the social royalties of New York and Philadelphia. And what an occasion there is for Pittsburg to rejoice that she is not made the laughing stock of the country once a week by a swarm of drones with more money than brains! A COMPARATIVE EXEMPTION. Though Pittsburg, in common with the rest of the country, has had one of the se verest seasons on record for influenza and the less distressing phases of "colds." the town has been blessed with singular immu nity from fatal cases, compared with almost any other large city East or West It might be difficult to define the causes to which this fortunate exemption is due. Probably there is a good deal in the protec tion from the winds afforded by the hills which surround Pittsburg on every side. The points at which the greatest mortality has been evidenced so far are those on the seaboard and upon the lakes notably New York, Boston and Chicago. There is no scientific backing for the alarming assumptions put forth in certain quarters that the cholera is likely to come to Europe and America on the heels of "la grippe." At least, the most competent ob servers declare that the idea is fancifnl, and that sensible people will give themselves no trouble about it But sensible people will be inclined, all the same, to urge upon the city authorities strict and vigorous sanitary measures, so that the least invitation may be presented to any form of disease. With the paving that is now done and which is on the programme for next year the streets of the city later on in 1890 should be in better condition than ever before. t THE PE0BLEM OF TEE EC0H0MITES. The death of Jonathan Lenz, one of the leading members of the Economite Society, calls attention to the steadiness with which death is winnowing out the members of that remarkable community. Within a few years more all the older members of the Society must have passed away leaving behind them the wealth which the united efforts of the com munity have created. The life of these men furnishes a striking example of what com mon effort and united self-denial can do in the creation of wealth, althongb the practi cal answer of the question, what shall be done with the wealth so created? is bv no means so clear in their experience. When the rest of the old members have followed Miss Bapp and Mr. Lenz, the question will require either a modification of the rules of the community, or a settlement of the future disposition of the property of the society. HEARTS AND LIVES. Which is the more valuable, a woman's Leart or her life? The highest human au thorities, the courts of law, have answered this question in some fashion. If the rela tives of a woman who has been killed on a railroad or in some other violent way sue lor damages they may reasonably expect to get four or five thousand dollars at the ut most. If that woman gives her heart to a man under a promise of marriage, and that promif e is not kept, the damage to her may be assessed by a jury at almost any sum from one cent to fifty thousand dollars. Usually a broken heart is worth twice as ranch to her as her life would be to her rel gtfiVes. It seems faiilj- well established . that a woman's heart Is the most valuable part of her. In the case of Miss Cammerer, a thirty-five-year-old spinster who teaches music in Philadelphia, for breach oi promise the damage to Her heart by the unfaithful con duct of Mr. Muller was estimated by the jury to be $12,000. Supposing Muller had broken Miss Cammerer's back, with such eloquent counsel as Colonel Ingersoll to defend him, be would probably have been convicted of murder in the second degree, and sentenced to ten or twelve years im prisonment. It would have been more eco nomical for Mr. Muller to have committed murder that is considering the financial aspect of the case. We do not disapprove of maidens being compensated for injuries of a sentimental or moral nature which are truly often more grave than physical hurts. A man who willfully breaks his solemn word and bond with a woman deserves condign punishment, and if the penalty can be made comfortable to the suitor also so much the better. Dol lars are a salve for wounded hearts, some times. But would it not be well to place upon human life a higher valuation? Lives it may be admitted are not all of the same value, but surely no life is worth so little as some judges and juries would have us believe. A BABBEX TBITJMPH. 'When it was stated last year that the treaty concluded at the Berlin conference over the Samoan dispute was a victory for American diplomacy The Dispatch sug gested that it might be wise to await the textof the treaty before puming ourselves too proudly on having beaten Bismarck. The treaty was kept secret, but the German mission was given to Mr. Phelps as a re ward for his successtul diplomacy. The diplomatic secret has at last got be fore the Senate, and being guarded by the awful mystery of executive session, the text of the document has, of course, got into the papers. Having been published, the Senate, with commendable wisdom, con cludes to permit it to be published. The document shows that while the United States may have got the shell of victory, Bismarck takes the kernel. If the treaty is ratified, the principles for which this country has contended, that of leaving the Samoans to select their own government, with no more interference than is necessary for the protection of white residents, will be wholly abandoned. On the other hand, the German policy of inter ference, domination and control of Samoan will be carried out in fulL It was doubtless to obtain this treaty that Germany made the seeming concession of permitting Malietoa to return to a nominal rule which will really be hedged about with German interference. "Whether the same considerations induced the administration to join Germany in setting aside the choice f Mataafa for king may be an interesting question for future discussion. In future when the administration an nounces its diplomatic triumphs, the public will restrain its ardor until it is permitted to see the documents. THE TBAMP'S HABD LOT. Surely our gentle unwashed friend the tramp is being discouraged too violently. The robbers who stopped and robbed a train at Tulare, Cal., on Tuesday last argned firmly, but gently with the railroad men and did not harm the regular passengers. But while the transfer of property, as trans actions of this kind are termed west of the Bockies, was going on. a tramp who had been stealing a ride on a brake beam, crawled out from under the train. The robbers appar- itly not liking his bashful manners openei fir1; on the tramp, and filled his head with buckshot It is hard to hurt a tramp's feelings, but this one died at once. Now this is all wrong. Ethically the tramp and the robbers stood on the same plane. While h. wasttealing a ride they were looting the train. It is hard enough to travel cramped upon a brake beam, with out stops forbuckshot Bailroad restaurant pie annoys, but seldom Kills, and if buck shot is to be made a staple article of re freshment for tramps in their railroad journeys, they will cease to patronize the brake oeams. We are afraid that tramps everywhere will feel that every man's hand is against them. Here in Allegheny coun ty it has been proposed to make tramps work, positively work on the public roads. In other places tramps have been set to work. Ont on the golden slopes of the Pacific Bailroad robbers do a tramp to death with cold lead. To whom is the tramp to turn? He will be forced to earn his liv ing in a decent, respectable way. Apropos of the declaration of Collector Cooper's Media American in favor of ballot re form the Philadelphia Record says: "A vigor ous expression of this opinion on the part of Collector Cooper when be was In the Pennsyl vania Senate In 1889 would doubtless have pro moted, in a considerable degree, the cause of ballot reform." The esteemed Record is too exacting. If all supporters of reforms are to bo shut out because they have failed to come to its support at previous junctures of their career, wherewithal shall the reforms be sup ported? The doubt whether the wrong Vander bilts tried to go to the Assembly ball at Phila delphia, or the right Vanderbilts were pre vented from going, is reducing the mental functions of Philadelphia aristocracy to some thing approaching chaos. The alleged Bepublican Government in Brazil, in addition to Its rubber monopoly, issues a decree for dividing the banking busi ness of Brazil into three districts with one bank of issue for each district It is a fair In ference that the Provisional Government which does this sort of thing without any legis lative authority.ls less anxious to establish free government than to feather the nests of the members of the Junta. It is reported that Prof. Sullivan is still resolved to go to Congress. The renewal of his resolution may be due to a belief that if he should call for tellers 'Speaker Reed would make haste to concede the privilege. As nearly as can be judged by reports, 1 the action ol tbe Mouse Committee on Elec tions in favor of unseating Jackson, the Demo cratic contestant from West Virginia, and seat ing Smith, bis Republican opponent, is in ac cordance with justice. But the discouraging part of the matter is that no one who has any thing to do with settling tbe matter will vote on that consideration, but simply with a view to party advantage. The cold wave warning seems to have been like the cry of "wolf." It bas been given ont so often that tbe natural gas companies were caught, and the consumers experienced a mild taste of tbe freeze out The appearance of large numbers of seals on tbe shores of Long island may create a de mand for leasing that territory to a syndicate. But perhaps that step may be shown to be un necessary owing to the understanding that Long Island Is already run by a syndicate, with Mr. Austin Corbin at its head. The report of the Bans: of England's buy ioeillTcr as a reserve lor the issue clone. pound notes is now declared to be a purely fiat financial report. Was it natural gas, illuminating gas, the mysterious sewer gas, or Just a straight case of ruinous building! The fact that one life was lost and others threatened by that casualty in Lawrencevllle will make it necessary for the question to be settled in an authoritative manner. If the cold wave will kill off the grip and the untimely peach blossoms, a grateful public will try to grin and bear It The careful division of the "World's Fair Committee is now stated to have been so impartial that a deadlock is an inevitable re sult Consequently the House will have to vote on the site of the fair, and as a satisfactory compromise give the fair to Washington. We never miss the fuel till the gas pres sure gets low. 4 The publication of tile text of that Samoan treaty which was reported to be such a victory by William Walter Phelps and his conferees, is calculated to create the opinion that the diplomatic victory was principally a matter of Mr. Phelps' imagination. PEOPLE OF PBOMItfENCE. Bkv. Albert Gallatin Mobtok, of Amesbury, Mass., is still preaching in a pulpit that he has regularly filled since 1S25, "with out, in a single instance, "writing out a sermon. Mrs. Alexander McVeioh Miller, who lives near Aldcrson, in Greenbrier county, W. Va,, is said to draw an annual salary of 0,000 from a New York weekly paper for stories and other literary work. Robert Ellis TiiOMrsoN, preacher, jour nalist and professor, does not know when he was born. Few persons remember when tbey were born, but they generally know when that interesting event took place. Prof. Thompson is more fortunate than most of mankind in one respect, he can choose bis own birthday. AT New York Tuesday evening two ex-Confederate officers visited the widow of General Grant and were cordially received. One of the visitors was General John 8. Mosby, the noted cavalry officer under General Lee, and the other General Cadmus Wilcox. The pair met accidentally on a street car. and in conversa tion discovered that their destinations were the same. Amanda M. Douglas began writing novels by accident, but finding that her first novel. "In Trust,'' sold to the extent of 20,000 copies, she continued novel writing as an occupation, and for the last ten years has been turning them out with the regularity of semi-annual divi dends. Miss Douglas is GO years old, short, thin and angular, with a large mouth, small eyes and sallow complexion. The dedication of a new church in Whittier, CaL, recently, elicited from the good poet in whose honor the town is named a letter, in which this passage occurs: "I see your town is spoken of as an orthodox Quaker colony. I hope there will be no sectarian fence about Whittier, but that good men. irrespective of tbeir creeds, will find a home there. .Nothing would be worse for it than to have the idea get abroad that anything like intolerance and self righteousness was its foundation. Alexander R. Botelee was a conspicuous figure in the United States Congress, before the war, and in the Confederate Congress dur ing the war. He also served in the Confederate army under Stonewall Jackson. Colonel Boteler is the great grandson of Charles Wil son Peale, the celebrated American historical painter. He is now living in Sheperdstown, Va., and although 70 years old. Is still active and vigorous, and interested in a claim of $17, 000,000, which the D'Arcy and Didier families have against the Government of Chili for mili tary stores furnished under contract to General Jose Carrara, Provisional Governor of Chili during the Chilian War of Independence, which these very stores helped to secure. The whole story reads like a romance. General Carrara was shot before the independence was won, but Henry Didier was declared to be the "Savior of Chill" on account of the timely as sistance rendered to the struggling patriots. UNIFORMITY OF LEGISLATION. Report of the Secretary of the National Divorce Reform League. Boston, January 22. The tenth annual meet ing of the National Divorce Reform League was held hero to-day. Samuel W. Dike. Corre sponding Secretary, read a lengthy report on the progress of the past year, showing a great increase in public interest in the subject of divorce reform. The report shows that 80.1 per cent of divorces occur in the State where the marriage took place, thus dispelling a pre valent idea that a uniform national divorce law wonld remedy the evil. The center of the problem is proved to be elsewhere than in uni formity of law, but the report shows that the marriage laws are in a deplorable state and that uniformity of registration is a pressing need. The majority of our States have yet to provide a system of registration of marriages so that returns can be collected. States having sucb systems should perfect them. Provision should be made for orderlv mar riage, under proper licenses before officially recognized authorities, with witnesses and with official records as to age, relationship and previous conjugal conditions. Provision sbould be made for the proper riling, preservation and publication of divorce papers. The spirit of re form has evidently completely checked the in crease of loose legislation, and has inaugurated a few better laws in some States, but the great work is as yet almost untouched. The Secre tary closes with a review of the educational i-work of the league and the desirability of an international comerence to aevi&e a common system of law relating to the family. A TOUGH JOB IN TIEW. A Tax Assessor Ordered to Test the Depth of the rtfnd In Stowe Tovrnshlp. The County Commissioners think there is no encouragement for virtue in the manner in which the Assessor for Stowe township has been made. In view of all the oil development in that township dnrlng the past year and the losses paid to a good many persons, the Com missioners think the number of people return ing personal property, such as money and stocks, is entirely too small. It would seem that the assessor Is a peace-loving man who has not insisted strongly on the inquisition into his neighbors' affairs, but the Commissioners, while sympathizing witn this trait of character say tbey do not propose to go the length of going to jail through chivalrous sentiment, and the assessor has been told that those assess ments must and shall be made. Stowe and Robinson townships seem to vie with each other as to which shall have the meanest roads,and if that assessor cannot walk on stilts bo will find the toughest job before him that he ever encountered. But out of his evil plight general good may grow. A MELTIAG OP YETERAH8. Old Soldlen Arrange for a Reunion of the Ninth Army Corps. isrsciAi. telegbah to the ntsrATcrr.i Habbisbubq, January 22. The third divis ion of tbe Ninth Army Corps of tbe Union Army was well represented at a meeting held at tbe Locblel Hotel to-day for the purpose of electing officers of the division organization and making final arrangements for a reunion to be held here on March 25 next, the twenty-fifth anniversary of the battle of Fort Stedman. President Harrison, from a letter written by him, expected to participate inthe proposed reunion, which will be held under the auspices of the Two Hnndred and Ninth Regiment. A parade will be among tbe features of the re union. The division adopted a resolution offered by M. A. Embick eulogistic of the late General Hartranf r. Tbentrlcul Events. The popular melodrama, "The White Slave," will begin a week's engagement at tbe Bijou Theater on Monday next, and the box office sale will commence to-day. Bartley Campbell bas touched the most delicate and responsive chord in human nature in "The White-Slave" namely, sympathy. As a dramatic and literary work it Is worth all the "Uncle Tom's." "Kit's" and "Octoroon's" that ever were written or ever will be written. It is a fact that "The White Slave" has outlived dozens of melo dramas, and is still very welcome here. Next Monday night at the Grand Opera House will see tbe return of the charming and always welcome Cora Tanner. "Fascination." in which she made such a marked success here last season will again be presented with tbe same superb company and with new and mag nificent scenery. Seats can now be secured at the box office. Tbe third chamber musio recital of the Beethoven Quartet Club will taker place this afternoon. Anatiraetivepiogramiaelaoffered. THE TOPICAL TALKER. A New Generation Voting; An Old Story Which Wa New at Ita Birthplace Gossip of Several Sorts. A politician of great experience in national as well as Pennsylvania politics, remarked to me yesterday: "One thing that has im pressed me wonderfully of late is that it is time for us all to realize that more than half the voters to-day have not a vivid remembranco of the War of the Rebellion, and know little or nothing about the history of that time, except as far the campaigns, the decisive battles and the big events are concerned. "I was brought to a very clear comprehension of this while I was in Ohio putting in a little work for my friend Mr. Brice last month. One night at the Neil House a party of Democrats were discussing the Grana Old Roman, Judge Thnrman, anal alluded to the narrow escape his bouse in Columbus had from destruction duriog the war. To my surprise not a man there knew what I meant, It was well graven on my memory, though." "What is the story?" k'Thebe were a great many Confederate prisoners in Columbus in the latter days of the war, and Judge Thnrman invited a num ber of rebel officers on parole to a ball at bis house, which was then located on South High street, where his law office now is. It was the night that the Crisis newspaper office was de stroyed by a mob, and, unluckily for Judge Thurman, the infuriated rioters heard of the kind of guests he was entertaining. Tbey were mostly Union soldiers home on furlough. After they had smashed the printing office the mob procured a small cannon and advanced npon the Thurman residence. The gun, loaded with grape, was trained upon the house where the Confederates were having a good time, and the fuse was already lighted when Colonel Jack Skiles, Provost Marshal, came upon the scene, and succeeded in persuading the mob to dis perse. That's how near It was to a full-Hedged catastrophe. Yet not one of my auditors knew the facts." V Qwnto to lack of space, credit could not be given to all to whom it was due for the capital performance of the operetta, "The Tyrolean Queen," on Tuesday nigbt at Sewick ley. The preparation for such a production by amateurs mast needs be very arduous. In this work, of course, Mrs. Sharp McDonald had the lion's share at the rehearsals, but the assistance lent by Miss Whiting and Mr. F. E. Bichardson was very valuable. The scenery which had been painted especially for this production in cluded a fairy grotto of no little beauty. V A DVANCE agents in the theatrical business are not to be bluffed with any surety of success. The representative of a very charming and large actress, who will be seen in Pittsburg soon, entered a Philadelphia newspaper office lately and approached the dramatic editor. The latter is well knpwn for his brnsqueness, and he saluted the theatrical man with: "Well, you can't tell me anything new about your fat starl" "Oh, yes. I can," replied the advance agent; "she's lost eight pounds since last summer. LA GRIPPE HAS GOT THEEE. 6evernl State Normal School Students Are la a Serious Condition. rsrXCTAL TXUEOBAX TO TOT DISPATCH. 1 Edinboro, Pa., January 22. Influenza has broken out in the State Normal School here, and there have been about 200 cases. Beveral members of the senior class are low with pneu monia, resulting from la grippe, and unless there is some speedy change death will follow. AU hopes have been given up in the case of Miss Schmit, a member of the senior class. Several other ladies are dangerously ill. Prof. Dutton, professor of mathematics, and a member of the faculty, has just recovered from a Bevere attack. SENATOR HARRIS' SARCASM". He Wonld Postpone Considering the Blair Bill Till March 3, 1S91. Washington, January 22. The Blair edu cational bill was reached and read in the Sen ate to-day. Mr. Harris suggested that, as the bill was not properly beloreltbe Senate as un finished business a day should be fixed for, it to become a special order. Mr. Blair declining to forego the advantage the bill now had, Mr. Harris said bis suggestion would be to have the bill considered late at night. March 3, 1891. After some discussion it was arranged by unanimous consent that the educational bill be postponed till Monday week, and be then "un finished business." DEATHS OP A DAY. Hon. John McSweeney. WOOSTEE, O.. January 22. Hon. John Mc Sweeney, the most prominent criminal lawyer In Ohio, died at his home in this city, at 11 o'clock last night, from acute pneumonia. Mr. Mc Sweeney was born near Bochester, X. Y., about 65 years ago. His parents were from Innesfallen, Ireland, and settled in Stark county, this State, wben he was an infant. Tbe hoy received his schooling at the Western lleserve College, and studied law with John Harris In Cincinnati. In 1845 he came to this city. He was six leet In height, straight, powerful, and bad a rich and melodious voice. He swayed a Jury, and with magnetic eloquence made tbe most hopeless case seem bright. Although one of the wealthiest men in Wayne county, Mr. McSweeney was unostenta tious in both dress and in bis domestic life, lie had two daughters and gone son. the latter cx l'rosecutlne Altorner or Wayne county. Polltl callr. Mr. McSwecnev was a Democrat, hnt hn never sought office. He paid considerable atten- tlon to politics. itiucs. ae lovea i his family And his pro fession. He was engaged to help prosecute the men accused or muraering Detective uuuigan, and also assisted in tbe Star Boute cases. Hon. Kenneth C. White EFXCIAL TELEGRAM TO THE DISPATCH. New York, January 22 United States Commis sioner Kenneth C. White, died this morning of malignant cancer at his home in Cherry Valley, Otsego county. For 20 years be was tbe Clerk of the United States Circuit Court for this city. The loss of the office which he had held so long im- F aired bis mind and compelled his retirement rom the practice of tbe law. Commissioner White was the son-in-law of the late Samuel Jyelson, United States Supreme Court Associate Justice. As master, he sold the Northern Pacific ltallwav under foreclosure from the stps of the Cnstom House, and his fee or 120,000 was the biggest ever paid in bankruptcy proceedings. Commissioner White was 64 years old. He leaves seven chil dren. I Frof. Francia Down. CAHBWDQE, Mass., January 22. Francis Bowen. one of the oldest professors of Harvard College, died at his home in this city yesterday. He had been failing gradually during tbe past few years, and a month ago resigned bis position as an active worker In tbe college. 'o fears for his health were entertained, (however, and his death was a surprise to his friends. The Professor rose yesterday morning and entered the bathroom. After be bad been there; some time his family be came alarmed, and on forcing open tbe door found him dead In the tub. Dr. Morrill Wyman, one of his classmates, was summoned, and pronounced death to be the result of fa shock from entering tbe water and a consequent(iaUure of the heart. Prof. Bowen was 78 years of axe. Johnlllelder. Helena, Mont., January zz.-John Belder, a famous Montana chajeter, renowned as a leader of tbe Committee ori Safety in tbe road agent Serlod. and who for many years since bas been a eputy United States Marshal and sheriff's officer, died at his home in this city this morning of pneu monia. The tun eral Will be conducted under the auspices of the Montana Soelety. Jadsjo David J. Roop. Celina. O., January K. The grip has claimed its first victim here in the person of Judge David J. Roop, who died last evening after an illness of but a few days. JuUgeUoopwas the first man In the county to enlif t in the late war, and served until Its close. I Captain n. 31. Grifflo. rsrsciAi. raitaimt to the dispatch. Habbisbubq, January 22. Captain Harry M. Qriffen, a clerk in! the Auditor General's Depart ment, and a politician of some note, died in this city this evening it pneumonia and heart failure. Ue resided In Pottstown until recently. Hon. Fitch Phillips. DETROIT, January 52. Hon. Fitch Phillips. ex State Senator aid Benresentatlve, Provost Mar shal of San Mateo, Cal.. in ISC and prominent Bepublican of this State, died at bis residence la Ulg Kaplds thlslmornlng. MVs. Lyman. W. Belts. BLOOMEiQiOX, Hi., January a Mrs. Lyman W. Betts dlell yesterday, aged S3, from pneu monia, superinduced oy tne grip, tine was a cousin of the late United States Senator David ipeflnd thfeU: JrIr vavis. Polly Osgood.. ASDDBT. Jinuary22. Mrs. folly Osgood, who celebrated herjone hundredth birthday January 10. died last night or Influenza. Btron Frankenstein. JJkklix. January 22. Baron Frankenstein, one of the leaders of the clerical party In the Belch- sUfi "he hsj Men iU for. some time, ale4 to-day, I TINDER AN ORCHID ARCH. The Bcffgs-Bpronl Wedding: at the Dllworth Mansion on Fifth Avenue Elaborate Decorations Other Events of Society. Under a superb floral arch of orchids, sur rounded by relatives and friends, at 6 o'clock last evening. Miss Mary Louise Beggs and Mr. Harry Sproul were united in marriage by the Right Rev. Courtlandt Whitehead. The mar riage, which has been the topic of conversation with those acquainted with the interested parties for some time past, was a brilliant one in every respect. The residence of Lawrence Dllworth, on Fifth avenue, was placed at the disposal of Mr. and Mrs. Carter Curtis Beggs, as their own, that is in the process ol con struction, was not completed for the celebra tion of the nuptials of their daughter: and the florists, A M. &.J. B. Murdoch, were busy the entire day enhancing the beau tiful rooms by a judicious and artistic use of orchids and ferns. The result of tbeir efforts was tbe most beautiful bouse decoration ever seen In the city, and on the first floor of the mansion the library, dining room and drawing room, together with the re ception room, became one vast saloon by throwing open the double doors between each room, and all were profusely decorated with the prevailing flower. In the library they were scattered around on mantel and table In vases, all of the one color, pink, which by the way, was the recognized color of the wedding. The reception hall was a magnificent room for the exercise of the floral artist's skill. The landings of the stairway were all prettily set with ferns and orchids of every shape, and the lattice work outlining the stairway was trim med with tree ferns upon which tho graceful asparagus plumosa was twined and orchids in tbe most charmingly natural manner abounded, tied on with lovely pink rib bon. The design was extremely unique, and needless to say surprisingly pretty. The im mense fireplace of the reception ball was filled with lovely ferns and the mantel solid with orchids. The dining room was radiant with the same transparent flower, arranged inthe most exquisite clusters and bouquets, but tbe drawing room was the most elaborately dec orated of them alL The recess occupied bv the bridal party dur ing tbe ceremony was in the shape of a bow window, but differed from one inasmuch as tbe space usually occupied by a center window was devoted to a handsome mantel. Orchids banked it solidly, which heavy plate-glacs miners that surmounted it reflected in all their glory. Tbe fire place was filled with dainty ferns and tbe entire window was arched with a heavy fringe of the dainty blossoms finished at either ena with the asparagus plumost and long loops of pink ribbon. Pretty sprays of the orchids that drooped, in comparison, with the more erect blossoms that seemed conscious of tbeir beauty filled two tall vases which npon gilded pedestals flanked the mantel. Pink ribbons outlined the bridal passageway from the flower bedecked stairway to the floral window, and with solemn and stately tread Bishop Whitehead assumed his position in the recess. Toerge Brothers' orchestra, which was screened in tbe front vestibule, then sent forth tbe "merry strains of the bridal march and Mr. Sproul and his best man. Mr. George Singer, traversed tbe ribboned aisle, following were tne groomsmen, Air. Marshall Child ana Mr. H. C. Brown, then two dainty little maidens. Misses Virginia Beggs and Lizzie Dil worth, car ried French baskets filled with pink roses; and the maid of honor. Miss Susie Harley Dll worth. a cousin of the bride. Immediately pre ceded Mis3 Beggs, who was attended by her father, and by him delivered into the keeping of tbe groom. The bride was attired In a gown purchased for the occasion during the travels of tbe family in Europe last summer. It was a white faille silk skirt, trained, and the front draped with mousseline de sole. The bodice was low and sleeveless, and no ornaments were worn. A long veil of filmy texture enveloped and shronded the youthful figure of tbe petite bride. Her flowers were white lilacs, tied with a fringed sasb of pink silk The maid of bonor was gowned in white mousseline de soie of dancing length and carried a cluster of mermet roses, while tbe little flower girls wore dresses of white point d'esprit with graceful pink silk sashes and slippers, gloves and hosiery of the same shade. Tbe baskets which they carried were fluted with pink silk also, and Mr. Dell, of J. R. & A. Murdoch, who furnished the bouquets and baskets, displayed great taste in tbe arrange ment of each. After the ceremony the young couple received the cotiaratnlations of tbe as sembled guests, about lot) In all, and then an elaborate supper was served by Scblosser. Tbe presents received were such as wealth and cultivated taste would suggest, and tbere was an almost endless array of them. The bride presented her attendants with bandsome little pins as souvenirs. On'tbe evening train Mr. and Mrs. Sproul departed for a short East ern trip, and will occupy a charming pink stone residence n Borden street which has recently come into their possession, on their return. SOLON MUS1CALE. Pleasant Evening? for tbe Sapremo Lodgero and Tbeir Friends. A large ana appreciative audience filled Lafayette Hall last evening in attendance npon the musical and literary programme presented undtr the auspices of tbe Supreme Lodge Order of Solans. The various numbers gave great pleasure to tbe listeners, as they were all well rendered. Tbe lodge is in a decidedly flourishing condition, and last evening will be a pleasant reminiscence to all present. Tbe programme included an overture by the Midget Band; an address. "Solon and Its Aims," by A. J. Rogers: a vocal solo. "With AU Her Faults I Love Her Still," bv Master Arthur Smith; a duet, "Li Favorite," by Mrs. R. J. Godfrey and W. J. Po3t; a recitation, by T. J. Qeraghty; a vocal solo, "Comfort Ye," by Prof. T. J. femith; a solo, by W. J. Past; an address, "Solon's Stability," by R. J. Godfrey: a duet, Mrs. R. J. Godfrey and Prof. T. J. Smith; a recitation, by Prof. B. W. King, and a vocal solo by Mrs. K. J. Godfrey. The Mozart Or chestra was in attendance. A PKETXI WEDDING. Tbo Holmei-Kubn Nnptlals In a Fifth Ave nno Residence. A very pretty wedding, at 6 o'clock last even ing, was celebrated at tbe residence of Mr. William Holmes, on Fifth avenue. Tbe bride was Miss Annie L. Holmes, his daughter, and the groom Mr. George C. Kuhn. Tbe Rev. Dr. Caster officiated, and Gernert's Orchestra, which was screened by a heavy interlacing of tropical plants and pretty vines In the rear of the back parlor, lssned sweet strains for the joyous occasion. Tbe bouse was beautifully decorated with foliage plants, ferns and harrisi lilies. There were no attendants, and the bride was gowned in a charming creation of white faille silk and wore diamond ornaments, the pendant of the set being the "groom's bridal present. A tempting repast was served by Kennedy. Mr. and Mrs. Kuhn will spend a few weeks in travel and then the Eastern Hotel will be tbeir abiding place. ' OTHELLO BI A3IATBDES. A Nice Presentation of tbe Moor and His Environments. Cozy little University Hall was filled last evening to witness the presentation of Othello" by members of tbe Curry School Dramatic Club, and Mr. and Mrs. Byron W. King. Tbe caste as as follows: Othello. Mr. Byron W. King; lago, Mr. George Gallupe; CoMfo, Mr. T. J. Qeraghty; ralanHo, Mr. Tom Camaban; Rederigo, Mr. Cyrus Gates; Montana. Mr. Frank Reynolds; Qratiano, Mr. Wm. Roblson; Duke of Venice, Mr. J. M. Wis- man; Jjoaioico, Air. J. v. tfrlson; rauio, Jur. Wm. Hammer: Detdcmonia, Mrs. Inez Todd King, and JSmelia, Miss Clara L. Dawes. Social Cbntter. The wedding of Miss Nolle Rose, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M. C. Rose, of New Castle, yesterday at 5 o'clock, to Mr. Oscar T. Hance, of this city, is one that will interest a great many Pittsburgers, as the groom is well and favorably known here. The marriage of Miss Agnes Eccies, of Alle gheny, and Mr. E. Duff, the son of Colonel L. RDuff, of Allegheny, will be solemnized to-day in Allegheny. Immediately after tbe ceremony they will depart for their future home in Port land, Ore. The Pittsburg Alumni Association celebrate tbeir annual banquet to-night at the Duquesoe Club House. The association includes grad uates of Washington, Jefferson and the united colleges. At Beaver Falls last evening Miss Byrde D. Morrison, tbe daughter of Alexander Morrison, was united in marriage to Mr. Wilbur L. Wright, of the firm of Boyd fc Co., of this city. The monthly musical and literary entertain ment at the Pittsburg Female College to-morrow evening is to be a very pleasing one. The third chamber musical recital by the Beethoven Quartet Club at Hamilton's Music and Art Chamber this afternoon. Mrs. John A. Bower entertained some friends at dinner yesterday at her home, 211 Allegheny avenue, Allegheny. Mb. A. Kornbluh, tbe well-known optician, has returned from New York City. The Gilmore-Cunnlngham. wedding in Be wick ey this evening. The McDowell-La wrlo. wedding jn Allegheny tQ.ms.ht, , THE STROLLER'S STORIES. Odd Opinions and Qnalnt Observations Gath ered From Curb and Corridor. A tbavexino man writes to the Stroller from East Saginaw, Mich., in criticism of some brief praise of Pittsburg's hotels, pub lished January ID. Referring to the hotels of Philadelphia, he says: "It is one of tbe poor est provided cities in the country for hotels. Tbere is but one l 60 per day house in tbe city, and that is always full after 1 or 2 o'clock in the afternoon. Green's never had an eleva tor for the benefit of its patrons till last spring, and the one put in then was very small." Tn a reference to one of the best hotels in this city, tbe correspondent speaks of a freak of the chambermaids in a way that will strike a sympathetic cord in the beart of many an un fortunate traveler. He says that the hotel in question bag poor beds, and adds: "Tbey are hard and poorly made. Tbey have fallen into tbe bad practice of a good many others, of pull ing the clothes up to the bead to fold over In fancy folds, and the result bare feet against tbe cold foot board. I have measured in sev eral cases in different hotels and very seldom find tbe sheets below tbe foot of tbe mattress, and from tbat to 18 inches, actual measure ment.f rom tbe foot. The Stroller's correspond ent is assured that the practice of which he complains has been stopped in the hotel re ferred to, and that when next he visits Pitts bnrg be may stop there without any dread of thrusting his unprotected toes against the cold foot board. TVJK. AKD MES. A. H. CHADBOTJRSE, Of Philadelphia, are at tbe Hotel Duquesne. Mr. Chadbourne is tho representative of the Sprague electric railway motor, and he super intended the construction of the Pleasant Valley system. He is here to look oyer the operation of the road. rixw Wa, the Chinese doctor who sold bis wonderful vegetable "cure-all" for several months on Penn avenue, and was driven out of town by Inspector McAleese, bas established himself in Denver. He and his manager have opened au office on Larimer street, in tbat city, and are filling the Denver papers with high priced advertising matter. In the journey from Pittsburg to Denver the Chinese doctor lost an "h" from the end of bis name. Tbe Colorado capital is overdone with Chinese doc tors, who advertise vegetable remedies for all human ills. The American doctors there do not, apparently, object to their presence. Thi son of Colonel James Andrews, of Alle gheny, who has recently come borne from an extended tour over the booming West, tells a good story of a gambling operation which be noticed in Colorado and Kansas. In many small towns he ran across a gentleman of elegant manners, who was evidently playing poker for a living. He would remain in one place only a day or two long enough to get np a "social game" in some barroom and win every cent that bis opponents possessed. He was invariably a winner, beating the shrewdest poker players in a town, and carrying away a roll ot several hun dred dollars. Mr. Andrews was puzzled to ac count for the man's unvarying success, especial ly as he observed tbat he always played with the cards kept in the various barrooms. The mys tery was dispelled when it was learned that the player was always preceded in a town about a week by a man who sold fine cards at a very low figure to the keepers of saloons. The two men were confederates. The cards were marked, and the first man posted the second as to the places where tbe cards were sold. After that the win ning was easy. T? axph W. Carroll, the manager of the American Tube and Iron Works, departed last evening for Philadelphia and New York on the business of the firm. He will return home next Monday. ( P.DtmBAB, of Norwalk, general master mechanic of the Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad, and O. A. Wilson, of Toledo, chief engineer of the road, are at the Hotel Ander ssn. Tbey are in the city to look after three locomotives which have been bnilt for the com pany by the Pittsburg Locomotive Works. They were ordered last October, and are about ready to ship. They are 90,000 pound engines. The gentlemen are accompanied by W. W. Graham, of Norwalk. who is building bridges for tha Wheeling and Lake Erie. Mr. Graham bas a large contract in the construction of the new bridge at Steubenvllle. TT is a jolly party of Clevelandors which is housed at the Hotel Anderson. The mem bers of the party are: Thomas Graves, a busi ness man of tbat city, Councilmen John Wy 6oon, D. Kostering, F. Turek, F. Hesoun, William Tansch and Robert MeQuoid. The geutlemen are on a pleasure tour, which will be of about ten days' duration. They visited the theater last night, and will depart this morning for Washington. After a few days there they will go to New York. A ntjmbeb of prominent men will meet in this city to-day to transfer a large tract of valuable coal land in Lawrence county. The tract covers 1.150 acres, and is owned by ex Mayor William G. Rose, of Cleveland; Thomas R. Kennedy, of Chambersburg; ex-Congressman Samuel Griffith and his son, Samuel B. Griffith, of Mercer; Amos Dinsmore, the type writer manufacturer, of New York;CoIonel W. W.Jennings, of Harrisburg; ex-Judge James Stranahan and S. F. Thompson, of Mercer, and Attorney Hiram L. Richmond, of Mead ville. These gentlemen are all expected to bo here to-day, as well as State Senator Thomas M. Mehard, of Wampnm, to whom the prop erty is to be transferred. Mr. Richmond and 8. B. Griffith arrived last night, and are at tbe Anderson. Senator Mehard baa bnilt a coal road to the tract, and will work it extensively. Thx Bteoixkr. SECOND TO NONE IN AMERICA. The Dispatch Pronounced the Beat Paper West of the Mountains. From the Butler Herald. The Pittsbtjbo Dispatch, as a dally, has long enjoyed tbe distinction of being tbe fore most daily published West of the mountains. The Sunday edition is only excelled in point of circulation by a few, and in size and progress iveness it is second to none in the United States. This is an age of progress, and the new year nrings new things. Tbe increased demand for The Sunday Dispatch has necessitate the building of another Hoe & Co. perfecting press, which will give The Dispatch publishing facilities enjoyed by but few metropolitan plants. For the coming year the services of tbe best and most popular newspaper contributors have been secured. H. Rider Haggard's master piece, "Beatrice," is one ot the features that begins with tbe new year. Sketches from Car penter, Dare, and Bill Nye, well known to readers of The Dispatch, will also find space in its columns. Tbe 20-page Sunday edition is an encyclopedia of one week's news of the world, and embraces every known quarter ot the globe. BEATEE IS PRESIDENT. Elected tho Head of lbs Pennsylvania Board of Agriculture. ISrSCIAL TELEGRAM TO TUS DISPATCU.l HareisbukO, January 22. The State Board of Agriculture at tbe first session elected offi cers as follows: President, Governor Beaver; Vice Presidents, John McDowell, Washington: Eastuurn Reeder. Bucks; N. F. Underwood, Wayne: Secretary, Thomas J. Edge; Executive Committee. X A. Herr, Clinton; R. 8. Searle, Susquehanna; G. D. Stltzel, Berks; J. W. Mather, Tioga; Dr. W. B. Roland, York; Calvin Cooper, Lancaster, and S. McCreary, Law rence. At tbe afternoon session a number of agri cultural subjects were discussed. Luther 8. Kauffman, of Lancaster, to-night delivered an address on "Our Interest Burden." LET US LAUGH. Let ns Ml the world with laughter. Till tbe moon queens scamper wildly, Yellow sun gods chasing afttr; Till existence once so mildly Moving on with boly zest. Takes tbe semblance of ajeit. While the earth is full of weeping, Full of misery and sadness. Full of loathsome vices creeolngv jrnll of hatred and hate's madness, Let ns fill our caps and quaff Lethe's nectar, while we laugh. While our foolish hearts are breaking With fierce passions unrequited. White our hands, our graves are making. Digging with delusions blighted. Let ns one more bumper quaff. Death defiant, while we laugh. rF, w, ewitv, in mum QUH. 0U2 MAIL POUCH. An Old Pennsylvania Map. To the Editor of Tbe Dlspatcb: In The Dispatch of January 17, yon pub lished a letter from a Miss Wood, of Philadel phia, asking for some Information in regard to some old deed far beyona the date of tbe for mation of Allegheny county. You stated that tbe Historical Association might be able to give some information thereon. Well, perhaps it can: I. as Secretary thereof, will give an ex tract of the minutes of tho association at a meeting beld in December, 1S89: "Mr. Marshall exhibited a map (with expla nations thereof) of tbe Penn Manor, as laid out in 1769, issued by the land office of the colony of Pennsylvania." That map might give the information de sired, as it wag issued seven years before John Hancock signed tbe Declaration of Independ ence, and 13 years before Pennsylvania (1782) was admitted into the Union. The map can be seen by interested parties by addressing the undersigned. J. C. Porter, Secretary Historical Association. Pittsbtjbo, January 2L Stndjlng for the Stage. To the Editor or The Dispatch: Please answer through your paper: L What do people study elocution fort 2. Do you have to study elocution to go on the stage that is. to become a tragedian? 3. If tbere is a school for studying for the stage, please state where it is situated and oblige T. M. A. S. Pittsbcbo, January ZL p. For the same reason that tbey study other arts, probably; because their tastes lie in tbat direction and tbey aesire to gain knowl edge of the subject. 2. Tbe mall pouch editor does not go on the stage somebody must have misinformed you. But if be had any expecta tions of winning fame as a tragedian he would do "rigbt smart" of studying before making bis appearance before tbe public S. There was a "school of acting" started in New York some time ago, but we baven't seen it adver tised lately. Afraid ot Electric Flashes. To the Editor of Tbe Dispatch: Won't you have your electrical expert notice the flashes made by tbe Pleasant Valley electric car, in turning the corner at Smithfleld and Sixth avenue, and tell us In how many days it will be necessary for us to avoid that corner, to be saved from the consequences of their conductors burning out, and falling down! Pittsburg, January 21. A Reader. He Committed Suicide In JalL To the Editor of The Dlspatcb: Where did Ed Coffee die? J. J. Pittsbubo, January 21. BOOMING THE UICABAGUA CANAL. Secretary Blaine Expresses a Hope That All Obstacle! Will be Overcome. Sax Francisco. Cal., January 22. At the annual meeting of the Chamber of Commerce to-day the retiring President, Rankin, spoke of the great benefits to the Pacific coast of the Nicaragua canal, and that its completion now seems bevond a doubt, and also of the North Pacific fisheries, and suggested that tbey be utilized as far as possible as a training ground for the American sailors. Tbe incoming Presi dent, ex-Governor George C. Perkins, spoke nf the bright future of California and the Pacific coast. A letter from Secretary Blaine on the sub ject of the Nicaragua canal was read. In tbe letter, the Secretary says: "The importance of tbe inter-oceanic communication to the inter est of the Government and people of the United States bas been carefully compre hended and this Government has had occasion to express its concern that an amicable adjust ment of the pending question between Nicar agua and Costa Rica might be reached, with the friendly aid ot tbe United States, if desired by both parties. Our latest advices Indicate gratifying agreement upon the course of action which permits the continuance of operations on the canal, and it is doubted tbat any re maining questions will yield to the ust and honorable modes of settlement." A LAKE OP ASPHALT. The Great Natural Cariosity on tho Isle of Trinidad. From the New York Star.l I never meet Genoral W. W. Averell without thinking of the curious island and still more singular place from which asphalt is procured. General Averell, who 13 a familiar figure along Broadway, was the first to bring it to this coun try as a paving material, ft is found about tbe center of tbe Island 'of Trinidad, a dot in the Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Venezuela. There is an asphalt lake there. It Is said to cover about 10O acres, and to be in exhaustible. It is a black, sandy substance, and is believed to be crude, rotten petroleum. A singular feature is that althoogh.about 100,000 tons are taken out of this lake every year, it constantly fills up, so that there is no lessening of the snpnly. This remarkable lake of paving materials is owned by tbe Venezuelan Government, but leased to a company in Washington. They have a fleet of schooners running to Trinidad, and. having a monopoly of tbe business, bring vast quantities of the material to this countrv, and we find it everywhere on our streets and park sidewalks. LOANED THE PICTUEES. Tbe Y. 91. C. A. Rooms Adorned Temporar ily With Paintings nnd Etchlncs. The offices and lecture rooms of the Y. M. C A. building were additionally beautified yester day by the hanging of a number of oil paint ings and several etchings, among tbe collection being an oil portrait of the late William Thaw. Tbe pictnre3 are tbe property of Mr. George M. Laugblin and Mr. Benjamin Thaw, who have kindly loaned them to the Y. M. C. A. dnring a temporary absence from the city. Mr. Laugblin goes to Europe, and Mr. Thaw will make a tour of the Southern States. HAED TIMES IN KENTUCKY. The Farms and Homes or 330 Perions Sold at Sheriff7 Sale. SPECIAL TXLXORAlf TO TBS DISPATCH. Nicholasvh.t.e,Ky., January 22, The farms and houses of 350 persons in this county were sold to-day by. the Sheriff, to pay taxes. Most of tbe property was bought In by the State. This number Is unprecedented in this sec tion. No cause Is assigned for tbe apparent evidence of hard times. A Rensooable Explanation. From the Detroit Free rnta.l Once upon a time the seas were inhabited by no less than 67 different species of sharks, while to-day only about 60 varieties are known. A reasonable explanation of what has become of the other varieties is to assert tbat they have taken up their quarters on tbe land. Quay Goes Hunting. From the Chicago News.3 Senator Quay expects to start South In a few days for his health. The large Democratic majorities of that section will roost blgb while the Senator Is in their neighborhood. CONGRESS AND THE CRITICS. Philadelphia Times: When that five pronged World's Fair Committee tries to null itself together there is likely to be more fun than fair. Baltimore American: The 17 millionaires in the United States Senate are said to collect ively own more than SS0.Oj0.0O0. If Uncle Sam sbould ever get short be might call on them for a little assistance. Lotjisvxlub Courier-Journal: Since Mr. Reed's able remarks on the habit people have of not reading reports ot Congressional pro ceedings, tbe Congressional Record thinks of starting a baseball column. Bostok Olobe: Caves have been discov ered In Australia capable of accommodating 200,000 men. Here is another suggestion for Senator Butler, so busily engaged at present in African emigration schemes. Nk-w Yobk Tribune: The World's Fair Committee of the House baring been ap pointed, it can do no harm to remind the mem bers that, though tbe representatives of rival cities may be able to stretch the truth in an emergency, none of them can stretch the time between now and 1892. Moral: Be quick! St. Louis Globe-Democrat: There Is some reason for hope that the secret sessions of the Senate will be abolished before the expiration of the Fifty-first Congress. There was never any good cause for the injection of this element of feudalism into our system, and tbe reten tion of it at this day of social and Intellectual freedom Is humiliating ana inexcusable. Chicago Tribune: Wouldn't there be a huwl from tbe Democratic side of the fence If some Congressman sbould offer a resolution appropriating $50,000 to build a statue to James G. Blaine, elected President ot tbe United States in 1S34, but not inaugurated on ac count of gross frauds in certain States whereby tbe votes actually cast for him we're not counted I y A Phlladelpbian estimates the number of "speak-easies" in his city at from 4,000 to 6,000. Violets have been gathered within the past week on the northern slope of tbe mount ain along Cheat river. A peach tree on the farm of William Cash at Winfleld, W. Va., which bloomed In October, now has a crop of full grown peaches. The first apple tree planted inOnio, they say, can be seen alive and vigorous on Jerome Vincent's farm at Marietta. It was planted la 1789. A former Marion county, W. Va., man now residing In Iowa has returned to a Fair mont family a book he borrowed over 40 years ago. Perhaps the youngest couple ever mar ried in North Carolina bare just been united in Davis county. The groom U 13 and his bride two years younger. A man and woman are traversing Dela ware county, O., getting married by every preacher they come across. The fake they work i to give the minister a S20 bill and re ceive 110 or f 15 in good money in change. Z. K. Matson, of Truro, 111., asks peo ple to believe that he exploded a blast in a quarry the other day that brought out a red snake, spotted with yellow, that W3s 18 feet 6 Inches long, and as big around as a man's leg. A Springfield, O., baggage handler roughly jostled an elderly gentleman ana bade him "get out of tbe way." The elderly man was the superintendent of the road, ana when he turned around the baggage man crawled be hind a trunk and kicked himself. The longest freight train ever handled on the Baltimore and Ohio was brought into Grafton. W. Va., last week with one engine, in charge of Engineer Mat Frazer. ofKejser. There were 93 freight cars and a caboose, and the train was a few feet over a mile long. Several remarkable pictures have re cently been discovered on a rock on the Rio Grande in Texas. They were painted by the Indians, and represent a series of battles be tween two tribes. Tbe paintings are eight in number, and tbe work shows evidence of a skillful band. The stone was nearly covered with sand, but the paint, a bright red, was ap parently as fresh as when first put on. The hangman in New South Wales is looked npon with such horror that he recently found himself completely boycotted on reach ing Wagga-Wagga to perform an execution. Tbe cabmen refused unanimously to drive him from the railway station, the porters also de clined to carry bis luggage, and the unlucky executioner was obliged to trudge off on foot, struggling with his various traps. There are in Chicago, says a paper of that city, a set of ghouls who should be sup pressed. Each day they scan the death notice columns In the daily papers, and then they print, in cheap gilt upon black cardboard what they are pleased to term in their accompany ing circulars "a beautiful memorial of the depaited." They fill In tho "memorial" with the name clipped from the papers, and add some doggerelpoetry to fit the aga and sex ot the deceased. This tbey mail to the be reaved wife, parents or children, together with their price list for the cards by the hundred or thousand. A boy living near Nassau City, Wa., was out fire-bunting a few nights ago, wben he planted bis foot on somethingsoftand slippery, and at once awakened the warning notes of a rattlesnake. By the flickering glare of his torch he saw that he bad trod upon the reptile, but fortunately had planted his foot on its neck just back of the head, and though it folded Its slimy coils around his ankle and struck out with its fangs with lightning-like rapidity, it was unable to turn its head to domlncbief. The lad had presence of mind enough to keep his foot firmly planted upon its neck, while with tbe ax In his hand he sevored the heaafrom the body. Henry Wood, a farmernear Beach City, Stark county, O., welcomed a plausible young stranger, claiming to be a son of a deceased brother from California. The newcomer had the family history quite pat and was treated as one of the family, furnished good clothes, loaned a good deal of money and obtained a lucrative situation. He courted and was en gaged to a daughter of Wood, as be was sup posed a cousin- Tbe day before tbe marriage tbe chance arrival of an old friend of the Cali fornia brother made known that his only son bad died several years ago. Tbe impostor fled, narrowly escaping arrest. A likeness to the Wood family bad made his deception easy. A buried treasure is being sought in Northwest Bengal. A poor Brahmin, at Monghvr possessed an amulet which baa been in his family for generations, and, as he was almost starving, he took it to a goldjmlth for sale. The goldsmith broke it up to test: he metal and f onnd in the hollow center a scrap of paper covered with minute writing. This being deciphered by a learned pundit, the Brahmin learned tbat close by the shrine of Pir Shah Nepal is a well dating back to Mabomedan times, and at a certain distance from tbe well are hidden 14 lakhs of rupees. The Brahmin has obtained Government sanction to excavate the ground, a rich neighbor furnishing the funds on condition of receiving a share of the treasure. A reporter witnessed an extraordinary scene In the vicinity of Biddleville, N. C. In front of a small cabin a pulpit had been erected. In this stood a negro, "preaching" at the top of bis voice. There was no one except tbe reporter and tbe preacher near, and tbe for mer stood and listened, but was not noticed bv tbe speaker. On inquiry it was found tbat tbe preacher was Robert BelL Two years ago be was fired from tbe pastorate of tbe Presby terian church at Biddleville became he would go into bis church barefooted. He was warned against this offense, and, heeding it not. one Sunday, as he attempted to ascend his pulpit shoeless, half a dozen good, pious deacons seized him and fired him from tbe church. On tbat day Bell declared that he would preach three times every day in hi3 own yard, and he does it, although no one goes to bear him. Billie Mustard is an eccentric old man, well known among tbe farming community of Hanover and St. Clair townships, in Butler county, O. During the summer and fall months he worked as a day laborer among the farmers, being a good man wberever be was put. He was saving, and wben winter approached be re sorted to Four Mile creek, where he dug a hole in tbe bank and there constructed a cot of straw and such other materials as be could gather, and spent his nights there. Daring the continued rainy-spell bis domicile cared in, burying tbe old man to the waist, and in this position he was compelled to dig himself out, which occupied two days. Billie has led a queer life, but has tbrough all bis vicissi tudes borne a name for honesty and sobriety. A few days ago some of tbe neighbors had him removed to the County Infirmary, where he will probably end his days, as be is far advanced in years. FRACTIONAL CURRENCY. The man who works like thunder for four or ave years In order to get a mother-in-law, and then begins to kick against her as soon as the vic tory Is won, is no gentleman. AsarneV Jintcr prise. Fair Young Creature (after some recita tions) Do yon think I would do for a JulUtl Manager (anxious not to hurt feelings) Umer well, you'd look very pretty in the tomb-Jftio lork Weekly. Sweets to the Sweet Fenwick Allow me to congratulate you. Ed. That young lady of yours has the sweetest disposition in the world. Ed Well, 1 should hope so. It costs me 3 per -week to keep her la confectionery. Kearney 'i terprtt. Ciroumstantlal Evidence. He I swear It, Uaade, yon are my first lovet She 1 believe you, Harold-nobody but the merest novice In matters of the heart could ever have acted as awkwardly as you have for the last six months. Life. Young Man (with a glance at Johnny j who has remained in the parlor all evenlnjr) I se f the Kev. John Jasper is mistaken. Miss Bylo. Tbo J son does not move. Yonng Lady (coldly)-He moves, Mr. PIpsley, , when the right Joshua comes along. Chicago -TriDune. -' Recitation of a class in natural history, v Theproressor Is nettled at the inattention of his'; , pupils, and exclaims: "Gentlemen, I demand your attention. I am giving you an Interesting lecture on the personal" peculiarities of the monkey. The least you can doUtolookatme."-Jw XortUdger. "Is marriage a failure?" asked tbe elderly Bpllklns or a former flame, who had been a party to a May and December marriage. "No," she replied, with a glance toward her, husband In the nextroom. "Jot a failure. Only L a temporary embarrassment." Sew Xork Ledger. A MATBIJIOSIAIj cobweb. A gallant named Cobb met a maiden named' Webb, And straightway be sat down beside her, And quickly proposea in a manner so gua Tnatfl6vonBWMtwu,iw. j. -CMcago XerafdM JobnnjrBinks Pa, is ivory very expenS slve? Dinks Verv. JA "The pure, white kind costs more taan other? vtnt. HMM'titf" ' 'zm "So, my son; the white la a dollar, the redtwofe dollars, and the blue five doI-O, yes. I gueulivlt 1 fM.M ffn Vok fiHIL - .-LS CDKIODS COHDEtfSTMS.