&71T
9
THE
PITTSBURG DISPATCH.
: .
PAGES 9 TO 12.
SECOND PART.
PITTSBURG, ' SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 1890.
HOWTHEYALLSTAND
Members of the State Legisla
ture Give The Dispatch
Their Views
ON THE ERIE SHIP CANAL
Immense Advantages of the Enter
prise Terv Generally Admitted
All Over the State.
THE COST CAUSES HESITATION
On the Tart of Quite a Knmber of As
semblymen Who Hail From the In
terior of Pennsylvania.
OTHERS HEAET1LY FATOR THE SCHEME,
Believing Ttit the Gffrenaneat Conic la Injcctd to
Mike App.-cpnitioas Because of
Iittr-Etite Benefits.
WTLL-KKOWH SIGNATURES TO THESt LETTEBS
The Pennsylvania Legislature will have
no more important qnestion before it next
month than the proposed building of a ship
canal from Lake Erie 10 the Ohio river.
Tbe commission appointed to survey a route
for such a waterway has sent its report to
Governor Beaver. The Governor will
message it to both Houses of the General
Assembly with whatever recommendation
he may ttiink wise. So that in the hands of
the Legislators of this State the whole mat
ter will be placed lor disposal. They will
either advance it by wise legislation, or de
lay it by unfavorable action.
The Bequest for Information.
From the very inception down to the
present moment, The Dispatch nas moved
in advance of the various stages ol the great
enterprise. Knowing that the commis
sion's report was about to be forwarded to
the Executive Department at Harrisburg
for its final preparation for the Legislature,
this paper took time by the forelock and
sent to every member of the House and Sen
ate in Pennsylvania a copy of the following
letter:
OmCE OF THE FlTTBCRQ DISPATCH. J
Pittsburg, Pa., ov. , IbOO. (
Dear Sin For public information The
Dispatch would like to know what your views
are in regard to the construction of the pro
posed Lake Erie Canal.
As you are a member of the next Legislature,
tins matter which is conceived by many to be
of vital interest to the whole western part of
the State will come before you for favorable
or unfavorable action.
The precise form in which the project is to
be presented to the Legislature by the commis
sion appointed to consider it may not yet be
determined, bnt it will be a satisfaction to tbe
friends of the canal project to know whether
or not on feel in a ceneral way in favor of It.
and whether or not on mil support snch rea
sonable specific measures as may during the
winter be introduced at Harrisburg to grie tho
project effect,
lHE DisrATCii will be very glad to have
jour view son this most important subject at
j-uur earliest convenience.
ours trul v.
The DisrATcn Pro. Co.
Places "Where Light In Needed.
The first installment of responses are
classified below and printed in full. In the
extreme eastern part of the State and in the
northeastern and southeastern corners very
little is known of the project. Dozens of
letters to that effect have been relegated to
the waste-paper basket On all sides, how
ever, the desire is general for complete de
tails about the result of the Canal Com
mission's report. Some valuable advantages
of a ship canal are pointed out in the sub
joined letters by those who favor it. Those
who say they will oppose it do so because
they consider the cost excessive.
THE HOME MEMBERS.
HOW ALLEGHENY CO.'S DELEGATION TO
THE LEGISLATURE STANDS.
Ex-Speaker Gniham's Emphatic Remarks
Some Members Cautious in the Absence
of Specific Information National Aid
Desired by Mail.
Allegheny County has 20 members of
the Legislature, in both branches. Thir
teen of these were interviewed personally by
a Dispatch reporter on the subject of the
canal, and their utterances are recorded
below. The other seven could not be reached
in person, and The DisPATcn's circular
letter was sent carefully to each one, but up
to G o'clock last evening no answers had
been received from fae following members:
H. B. Lemon, 167 Third avenue; John
Kearns, 1635 Liberty street; S. 51. Laffertv,
Central live stock yards; "William B.
Kroesen, Etna; Dr. "W illiam H. McCul
lough, Tarentum; S. E. Stewart, Verona;
Senator S. S. Steele, Green Tree Postoffice
In several of the above addresses it is known
the letter reached the members named.
The interviews are as follows:
Hon. James L. Graham, North avenue,
Allegheny, ex-Speaker of the House ot
representatives: "I am unquestionably in
favor of the enterprise to build a canal Irom
Lake Erie to the Ohio river. It would be
an immense benefit to the manufacturing in
terests of Pittsburg and vicinity.
Not a Local Project.
"But at the same time I want to wait and
study carefully the report of the commission
which has been at work on the survev of
such a canal. The cost would probably be
very large, and a great deal will depend
upon the way tbe works would be prosecuted.
I would not favor making enormous con
tracts and sinking millions of dollars need
lessly in the ground. The enterprise should
be carefully guarded from jobs of that kind.
It's a good thing if we can get the canal, but
we must be careful how we get if, I would
be ih favor ot the general Government help
ing to pav the cost of the canal. Tbey could
hardly call it a local project on the ground
that it would benefit Pittsburg and "Western
Pennsylvania alone, for by such a canal we
would ship coal to all the States of the
Northwest, and from those various States
we would cart away their iron ore. It would
be pre-eminently an inter-State affair, I
think."
Valuable to tho Government.
B. F. Kynd, 200 North avenue, Alle
gheny: "Yes, sir, I shall vote in the Legis
lature this year to build that ship canal
from Lake Eric to the Ohio river. It is a
"very laudable project, and one that would
enhance the indnstrial position oi Pittsburg
immensely. Think of the vast advantages
of bringing Iron ore here direct from the
Lake Superior ports in unbroken bulks.
What a lot of handling it would save, and
thus lessen the cost of transportation. "We
need some way of cheapening the freight on
raw materials in these days when the cry
goes up from Pittsburg that Chicago has ad
vantageous points for getting ore cheaper
than we can. Besides that it would be a
magnificent outlet to the lake States for
our great Pittsbura coal fields. The same
ships that came down here laden with ore
could go back loaded with coal. In time of
war the whole United States would profit by
a canal from the great lakes to the Ohio
river. Naturally, Pittsburg is thereat of
the army and navy's heavy sup
plies. Wc furnished' an immense
amount ot them during the war
of the Rebellion, and we would do it again
iT war were to break out. Let that war be
with a foreign foe and here would be the
quick route to our northern frontier, besides
furnishing a safe harbor and retreat to our
own vessels. On this basis I think the cen
eral Government should bear the expense of
building a ship canal. If they don't, then
Pennsylvania should build it."
A Boom for Pittsburg.
Charles Muehlborner, Spring Garden
avenue, Allegheny: "I shall certainly vote
for the Lake Erie canal bill, and use all
my influence for it. I think that every
member of the Legislature from western
Pennsylvania ought to be on the side ot the
enterprise. It will certainly benefit tbe
whole of the western part of the State, and
how any can conscientiously oppose it I
can't understand. The building of this
canal would he a big boom for Pittsburg
aud'Allcgheny. I am for anything that
will cheapen freights and bringlots of them
here. The canal as a competitor of rail
roads will certainly do this. Therefore we
ought to have it."
W. T. Marshall, No. 9 Fulton street,
Allegheny I will favor and vote for any
thing to promote the interests of the pro
posed canal. I believe it would be a good
thing for Pittsburg and vicinity. I know
nothing definite yet about the report of the
Survey Commission, but I think it will
show the canal's practicability. Of course
I would like to see the National Govern
ment take hold and build the canal for us,
but I doubt whether they could be con
vinced of its advantages to the country at
large. If not, then I think the State of
Pennsylvania should build it herself.
What Home Senators Say.
Senator John Neeb, Stockton avenue,
Allegheny I have really not studied the
matter enough to give an intelligent opinion
ot its merits. I only know what I have read
in the newspapers, but as to the engineering
questions involved, the matter of cost, and
the method proposed for doing the work, the
report of the commission alone will give
members of the Legislature authentic data.
I am heartily in favor of internal improve
ments, and this will be a good thing for the
western part of the State it it doesn't cost
too much.
Senator 'William Flinn, Pittsburg "We
must wait until this Canal Commission
makes its report public. There is too little
known at present of the probable cost of the
canal enterprise, the practicability of the
proposed route, etc In a general way I am,
of course, in favor of anything that would
benefit Pittsburg's interests, and as a usual
thing I think that waterways as competitors
to railroads are advantageous.
Senator John Upperman, Lawrenceville
I have not enough knowledge about this
matter to say how I shall vote. I have read
nothing whatever about it. No, I have not
reaa anything at all in the newspapers
about it. I am always in favor of what will
advauci: Pittsburg's interests, but I really
do not know whether this will or not.
Pittsburg members, Too.
J. F. Richards, "Watson street, Pittsburg
Certainly I shall favor in tbe Legislature
the building of the Lake Erie and Ohio
Canal. I am convinced that it will be a
glorious thing for Pittsburg.
Emmitt E. Cotton'Bouthside, "Pittsburg
I am in favor of anything that will benefit
Pittsburg, so long as it is not at the expense
of the balance of the State, and I do not
know whether this is or not. I must first
see the report of the commission. There are
not many people in this State but who
would favor cheap highways if they can
get them. As yet I know nothing of the
scope of legislation proposed, and the safest
way is to wait until the Legislature meets.
David E. "Weaver, McClurg street, Pitts
burg Two years ago in the House I voted
for the appropriation io make the survey of
a canal from Lake Erie to the Ohio river,
which has just been completed by the com
mission. While I prefer to wait and see the
report of that survey, you may say that I
am in favor of any such enterprise, if it is
at all practicable, because it will benefit
this city and its surroundings.
The Other Members.
D. B. Jones, Homestead I cannot form a
fair opinion "until I see the report of the
Canal Commission.
"W. M. Culbertson, Lawrenceville In a
general way I am friendly to legislation
which would be of such advantage to the
State, if suitable measures iu this connec
tion can be presented.
J. W. Nesbitt, Oakdale I am in favor of
the Lake Erie Canal pioject in a general
way as a matter of public improvement.
As the means by which it is to be carried
out have not been determined on, or at least
not made public, I shall not, until the
measure is brought before the House, wholly
commit myself to it. The movement seems
to be a step in the direction of a better
carrying system, cheaper rates of freight,
and tbe development of new enterprises
and improvements, and as such should
commend itself to tbe favorable and careful
consideration of the Legislature.
THE STATE SENATORS.
THEIR VIEWS ON THE PROPOSED ERIE
SHIP CANAL.
Some of the Most Prominent Statesmen in
Pennsylvania Are Heartily in Favor of
the Enterprise Others Are Conserva
tiic. From members of the Senate in various
parts of the State comes some thoughtful ex
pressions in reply to The Dispatch's cir
cular letter of inquiry. ' The desire for more
definite information is general, however.
The President pro tern of the Senate writes
as follows:
Philadelphia, Nov. 22.
To the Editor ofTbe Dispatch:
I have your circnlar of November 20, asking
my views, as a member of tbe Legislature, in
regard to tbe construction of the proposed Lake
Erie CanaL As I know nothing of the details of
this proposed canal, my only knowledge of it
being the general rumor, it is difficult for me to
express an opinion.
But I may say that it is my intention and de
sire to vote and work for all measures wliieh
will develop and benefit the interests of tbe
State of Pennsylvania, and, in a general way, I
favor such a project as tbe Lake Erie canal.
Boies Penrose,
President pro tern. Senate of Pennsylvania.
Erie County's Senator.
Erie, Pa, Nov. 22.
To the Editor of Tbe Dispatch:
In reply to yonr favor of 20th Inst. I wonld
say that from tbe time the proposed Lake Erie
Canal was first talked off was greatly impressed
with its supreme importance to the business
interests of Northwestern Pennsylvania, as
well as to the commerce of the lakes, and It was
my pleasure to actively support at tbe last
session of the Pennsylvania Legislature the ap
pointment of tbe Commission to investigate
and report upon Its feasibility. It will also
give me pleasure to aid at tbe coming session
any practical measure having in view the ac
complishment of that important project.
D. B. MCUREAKY.
Jack Robinson's Support Promised.
Media, Delaware county, Nov. 30.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
Without committing myself to any specific
measure in general. I cordially favor the pro
posed colonization and. will lend, mj efforts to
the promotion of State or national measures In
aid of the project. John B. Robinson,
State Senator-elect, Ninth Pennsylvania Dis
trict. Congressman-elect Sixth Pennsylvania
District.
"Westmoreland's Senator Doubtful.
Gbeensburg, Pa., Nov. 21.
To the Editor or The Dlepatcn:
In reply to your letter concerning the con
struction of the proposed Lake Erie Canal,
permit me to say that I am not familiar with
the details of the project and cannot at this
time give an intelligent reply to your inquiry.
While the establishment of a direct water
route between the coal and coke fields of West
ern Pennsylvania and the iron ore beds of tho
lakes conld not but advance tho material pros
perity of Pittsburg and Western Pennsylvania,
yet there are no donbts of the practicability of
the scheme and of the propriety of the State
embarking in an enterprise of this character.
However, I will give tbe matter careful con
sideration, and 1 will favor all proper legisla
tion for the advancement of tbe material in
terests of Pittsburgand Western Pennsylvania.
Edward E. Bobbins.
Somerset County's Senator.
Jenner's X Roads, Nov. SO.
To the Editor of Ihe Dispatch:
I will bo a new member in the Senate, and I
shall want time to consider the canal project.
There is no qnestion in my mind as to tbe ad
vantage of the proposed canal would afford the
commercial interests of Western Pennsyl
vania, but otber questions must necessarily be
taken Into consideration before I can deter
mine what course I shall take with regard to it.
N. a. Critchtield.
He Believed That Way for Tears.
HUNTINGDON, PA., NOV. 2L
To the Editor of The Dispatch :
Your letter in relation to tho Erie Canal is
before me. In answer to your inquiry,
"Whether or not I feel in a general way in
favor of It?" emphatically I answer yes, pro
vided it is not too expensive. I have felt for
years that snch a public improvementwonldbe
a grand thing for Pennsylvania, could it be ac
complished by a reasonable expenditure.
W. Jtf . IC WILLIAMSON.
A Wise and Thoughtful Expression.
Philadelhuia, Nov. 22.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
Yours of 20th inst, is at hand, asking for my
views as to the construction of the proposed
Lake Erie CanaL In reply I will say that in a
general way I favor the project and will sun
port such reasonable measures as may be
framed to give it effect, believing that the
scheme is a great one and wouid no doubt be
of much commercial benefit to trie State and
country. Care should, of course, be taken to
avoid in legislation the placing of the cost by
guarantee or otherwise upon tbe Common
wealth. Francis A. Osboprn.
Worthy of Careful Examination.
Reading, Nov. 2S.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
While the National Government often makes
large grants of money for such public works,
the State never does, and it seems to me that
at least a portion of the enormous expense the
building of a canal would incur should be de
frayed by the general Government. I have no
information on the subject, and wben tbe time
comes shall examine very carefully the project.
If extravagant, or a job of any kind, I shall
vote against it. If beneficial to the Common.
wealtb as a whole, and the State can afford it,
I mav assist its passage. The act authorizing
the appointment of the commission is so loosely
drawn that I hardly think I could have favored
it, and I hope tbe legislation asked for is not
as indefinite in its pro visions as that act.
Henry W. Green.
General Gohin Undecided as Yet.
Lebanon, Nov. 22,
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
In reply to your inquiry, I would state that I
havo not given tbe subject of the construction
of the proposed Lake Erie canal tbe thought
necessary to an enterprise of this magnitude.
The cost, character of the work, its manage
ment as well as the constitutionality of the
legislation required, requires carefnl atten
tion. I have no opinion to express upon the
matter now. Wben it is presented I will en
deavor to be guided in my vote and action by
what I regard as conducive to tbe best interest
of tbe Stale. J. P. S. Gobin,
Important Considerations Involved, Cer
tainly. Ltkens, Dauphin Co., Dec 3.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
This being, in my opinion, a great undertak
ing. Involving considerations of much lmpoit
ance, I cannot make any promises, or even de
termine what I shall do in the premises, until
the plans, spectbeations, estimates, together
with the measures, are presented, fully dis
cussed, and considered. A. F. Thompson.
Senator W. S. Smith Opposed to it.
Bainbridoe, Lancaster Co., Nov. 21.
To the Editor of The Dispatch.
Referring to your letter of November20 in re
gard to the Lake Erie Canal project, I will say,
at this time, I am against the bill.
W. S. Smith.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.!
MEMBERS FROM ALL PARTS OF PENN
SYLVANIA EXPRESS VIEWS.
Many aro Warm Advocates for the Canal
Project, Others are Opposed to it, and
Quite a Number are Open to Argu
ment. All shades of opinion are brought out in
the replies of members of the House of Rep
resentatives to The Dispatch's circular.
Many of the Assemblymen stand ready to
be easily convinced of the advantages of the
canal by the report of tbe Commission
which has just completed the survey of the
route. Others are opposed to it as a State
enterprise. The sentiment seems to be
general that the National Government
should take the project under its wings.
Still others are unalterably antagonistic to
the scheme. One of the strongest letters is
the following:
Emporium, Cameron Co., Dec. 2.
To the Editor of 'lhe Dispatch:
I am inclined to favor any improvement that
will build up tho industries of Western Penn
sylvania, and my impression is that a water
way from and to the Western ore beds and
markets is of the utmost Importance to the iron
markets of Pittsburg and Western Pennsyl
vania generally. All I ask is that tbe plan shall
be practicable and tbe cost within reasonable
possibilities. J. C. Johnson.
Washington County Deeply Interested.
BURGETTSTOWN, WASHINGTON CO., I
Nov. 24.
To the Editor ot The Dispatch:
I will most certainly favor any pnblic im
provement that would contribute to the interest
of our own end of the State, and should this
project come before the House in proper shape,
I know of no reason why X conld not be for it.
T. M. PATTERSON.
The Benefit or a Doubt Promised.
Washington, Nov. 21.
To the Editor or the Dispatch:
I am in a general way decidedly in favor of
all schemes that will promote the prosperity of
Western Pennsylvania, and I shall advocate
the giving of State aid to the proposed Lake
Erie Canal, provided a proper measure Is
brought forward for that purpose. I will also
say tbat when I may be in some doubt the
scheme shall have the benefit of it
James 8. Stocking.
Probably on the Right Side,
ADAMSBUBO, WESTMORELAND CO., (
Dec 6. $
To the Editor of the Dispatch:
I am inclined to tavor the canal project, but
would not promise now to support any meas
ures tbat may be introduced at Harrisburg to
give it effect, for they might not meet my ap
proval. However, the possibility Is that I shall
be decidedly "for" tbe canal and "such reason
able specific measures as may be introduced to
give the project effect." J. K. Ellwood,
Suspicions of Jobbery.
Du Bois. Pa., Nov.. 21.
To the Editor of the Dispatch :
In the session ot 1SS9 1 wasone among 22
members opposing the joint resolution provid
ing for a surrey of a route for a ship canal to
connect tbe waters of Lake Erie and the Ohio
river. I favor State improvement of onr water
-ways when the prejectisieasibleutttis.doaajjeicitedpeojpje.
not jot seem so to me. It was claimed tbat such
a canal would be a panacea for railroad dis
crimination. I wonld suggest that enforcement
of the Constitution would be easier and much
cheaper.
In short, I can see a gigantic "job" in it. in
which the State could and likely would sink
millions of dollars. P. T. Weber.
A Pleasant Duty.
To the Editor or The Dispatch:
St. Marys, Elk Co., Nov. 24.
Yours of tho 20th instant received. I cannot
give a decisive answer, but will cnly be too glad
to support any measures that may prove bene
ficial to the State or any portion thereof.
Charles Luke.
Not Sure About tho Necessity.
To the Editor of Tho Disoalch:
Adamsvtlle, Crawford County, Pa., )
Nov. 21.
In reply to yonr circular of 20tb, I would say
I have very little faith In tho proposed ship
canal. Should the general Government take
hold of it, very well; but for tbe Legislature to
take snch action as to throw the responsibility
on tbe State, I think would be going too far,
and do not know that the people are asking for
any snch legislation. Unless convinced to the
contrary. I shall most certainly use my influ
ence against it. H. Wallace Brown.
Economic Advantages Hoped Tor.
State College. Center Co., Nov. 22.
1o the Editor or The Dispatch:
Yours of the 20th to hand, and contents noted.
In reply I would say that I cannot fully define
my opinion on the subject, not knowing tbe full
intents of the project. I will be able to give
you my views on the matter later, after I am
more folly acquainted with it
1 am in favor of any measure that will relieve
the laboring and agricultural classes of unjust
oppression and improve the condition of tbe
people generally. John T. McCormick.
Thinks it Will he Unpopular.
Hyndman, Somerset Co., Dec. 3.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
Until I know more about what the scheme
contemplates, I am nnahlo to say as to whether
I will favor or oppose it. lam inclined to tbo
opinion that the project will be an unpopular
one within the rank and file of the taxpayers of
the Commonwealth. They have a right to be
beard, and their will ought lareely sbapothe
course ot Legislators on thl3 question, as well
as all other matters of great public concern.
W. Scott Mullin.
Juniata Connty Sizes It Up.
Reed's Gap, Nov. 27.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
Yours of recent date to hand, ana would say
I am not fully acquainted with the proposed
project, but think it would open up a way from
tbe Atlantic to the Mississippi, and would be of
great interest to Pennsylvania, especially the
western part of it. J. C. Crawford.
Private Enterprise Preferred.
klatington, Lehigh Co., Dec 1.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
As to th matter you mention of, I am not
prepared to speak, not knowing anything of its
costs nor its prospective advantages. Am
always In favor of public Improvements, but be
lieve they are usually more cheaply and
honestly made when made bv private enter
prise. D. D. RorER.
The Pros and Cons Desired.
Freeland, Luzerne county, Nov. 29.
To the Editor of The Dispatch :
I would prefer to bear the pros and cons in
debate in the Honse. If it is of vital interest
to the whole western section ot the State I
will give it my support. Wm. R. Jeffrey.
Connt it as a Benefit, Then.
To the Editor of The Dispatcn:
Tiiemont, Schuylkill Co., Dec 2.
Your favor ot the 20:h asking my views in re
gard to the construction of tho proposed Lake
Erie Canal; as a member of the next Honse I
would say have not read mnch about it. I
would like to do what is right to all sections.
If it Is a benefit to the State, let's have tbe
canaL If not, we can do without it.
S. S. Cooper.
.Enriching the Whole State.
Mechanicsburo, Cumberland Co., i
jnoy.su. i
To the Editor of tbe Dispatch:
Your favor in reference to the proposed Lake
Erie Cannl duly received. The comments I
bave seen in the newspapers have been favor
ble to the project. I believe it to be most im
portant to the people in tho western portion of
the State.
I shall consider it my duty to support any
lawful measure offered in good faith which
promises the greatest benefit to the people of
the whole State, recognizing at the same time
the fact that "that which enriches a part may
proportionately enrich tbe whole."
G. Morris Eckels.
Member Kutz is Against It.
Bowers, Berks county, Nov. 22.
To tbe Editor of The Dispatch:
In reply to your circular letter of the 20ih
inst. will say tbat I should desire to first see
the report of tbe commission, and an estimate
of tbe cost before I can give my views in regard
to tbe proposed Lake Erie Canal.
From what I learned about if two years ago,
the friends of tbe project cannot expect much,
if any.support from me. Truly yours.
Cyrenius W. Kutz.
A Liberal Philadelphian.
Philadelphia, Nov. 22.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
You ask for my views in regard to the con
struction of the proposed Lake Erie Canal. I
am not at this time sufficiently conversant with
the matter to express an opinion, except to say
1 would favor any project likely to assist the
commerce or help develop tbe natural resources
of any part of our State. John Burton.
Only by National Appropriation.
KIng-of-Prussia, Montgomery Co.,
Nov. 22.
To the Editor or The Dispatch:
Your circular of 20th instant received. The
appiopriation made to pay tbe expenses of the
commission for survejs, etc., was made with
the understanding that it would show the
feasibility of the projected canal, and as it was
of national importance, tbe General Govern
ment would be asked to do the work. I am not
in favor of tho State undertaking it.
A. L. Taggart.
What a Progressive Member Says.
Media, Dhlaware Co., Dec. 2.
To tbe Editor of the Dispatch:
1 was favorably impressed with this matter at
last session of tbe House, and am anxious to
see what the commission will suggest.
1 profess to be one of the progressive mem
bers ot tbo House, but at the same time I hope
you will not ask me to decide wbat 1 shall do
until I hear what the commission sugcests. My
inclinations are at present in favor of legisla
tion in reference to same. I am,
Jesse M. Baker.
Farmer Tewkshnry's Reforms.
Catawissa, Columbia Co., Nov. 21.
To the Editor of The Dispatch:
Yours of 20th inst. at hand. Generally, I am
in favor of any measure for the greatest good
to the greatest number. At present I am not
sufficiently informed to give a definite answer.
Having been elected Upon tbo issue of tar
equalization, I do not feel at liberty to commit
myself to any measure till that has been dis
posed of.
There should bo no more burdens put upon
onr people till the whole property of the State
bears its equal burdens of taxation for all pur
poses. I might add. I am in favor of untraui
meled trade and building up our merchant ma
rine. E. M. Tewksbury,
, Farmer.
THE salvation of England on the plan
proposed by General Booth is agitating; the
whole w orld. The best minds of tho time
are studying his book, "In Darkest England."
In THE DISPATCH to-morrow the Rev.
George Hodges will note the commendable
features of the plan nnd give it Ids indorse
ment. Live topics of tho day handled by the
best writers. Twenty-four pages, 192
columns. All the news.
A SLEEPY TOWEBHAN
Causes a Fatal Train Accident on a New
Jersey Railroad.
Camdek, N, J., Dec 5. A freight train
on tbe West Jersey Railroad ran into an
open switch ne.ir this city this mornlng,and
Conductor Samuel LeaD was killed and
eight cars were wrecked.
The accident was caused by a 'sleepy
night towerman turning the wrong switch,
and he narrowly escaped .lynching by the"
THE STATE OF TRADE.
Dullness of Last Week Still Con
tinues, Says Bradstreet's.
BANK OP ENGLAND GIVES EEL1EF.
Trado in Holiday Specialties Only for the
Time the Tear.
PUS'S REGDLAK EKYIEW OFTflEWEEK
rsrrrur. teleqbam to thb dispatcii.j
New Yoke, Dec. 5. The somewhat re
stricted volume of business throughout the
country reported to Bradstreet't a week ago
continues a feature of tbe commercial and
industrial situation, notwithstanding colder
weather within a few days has tended to
stimulate buying. Holiday specialties ure
fairly active at retail. St. Paul, Cincinnati
and Memphis report a very good trade in
seasonable "lines, but at most other promi
nent distributing centers like announce
ments are qualified by admissions of a fall
ing off in the total volume of trade, les;
satisfactory interior mercantile collections,
and a disposition to take no unnecessary
risks on the part of bankers and traders
alike.
Money is not materially easier at interior
financial centers, and the banks are still
ignoring speculative requests for funds in
their efforts to meet the demands of pro
ducing and distributing interests.
Unsettled Money and Stock Markets.
Bullish operations in the Hew York stock
market have been suspended on the delay in
perfecting the "Western railroad agreement
and the unsettled condition of the money
market. European buying has been fairly
large, but otherwise the speculation has been
in the hands of traders, and prices bave
tended downward on a very dull market.
Money was held very stiffly at New York
until the Bank of England dropped its dis
count rate from 0 to 5 per cent. This had a
good effect, and call rates, which had ranged
irom 14 to 6 per cent earlier in the week, got
down as low as 4 per cent on bankers' bal
ances. Commercial paper is still taken at
6 to 8 per cent discount for best, with little
wanted by bankers, except from regular
customers.
The general tendency of prices of staples
has been downward. Iron is no lower, but
weaker. No large orders are being placed.
Tne effort to advance anthracite coal prices
has failed. Prices for lake copper are ex
pected to go off Jc in the near future.
Large stocks and slack demand have shaded
print cloths, and wool is quite as dull as
previously, with a reduced volume'of sales
at Boston this week.
Metal and Produce Prices Falling.
Cattle and hogs are off 5 cents at the
West, and provisions are a little lower on
the week. Wheat has been less unsettled,
with a reaction pf 1 cents. Indian corn,
however, is up 1 cent on rapidly vanishing
supplies, and ingrain carpets will soon be
marked up. Cottou closes about where it
opened this week.
November bank clearings gained more
heavily over those of November last year
than did those of October over October,
1889, owing to active trade and larger stock
speculation. Total November clearings at
52 cities aggregated 53,441,712,580, an in
crease of 7.3 per cent over last year. At
New York the clearings aggregated $3,379,
769,159, a gain over a year ago of 5.4 per
cent, while outside of New York the gain
was nearly 10 per cent. For 11 months of
this year the gain at 52 cities is 8.4 per cent.
Steady, cool weather has improved heavy
weight drygoods sales by jobbers. Aside
from this; tbe general demand is seasonably
light. Worsted goods are in demand, and
manufacturers are behind their orders.
Ben grades of wool are firm. Some sales
have been made at concessions. Territory
wools are most active.
Visible Supply of Grain Growing Smaller.
Wheat stocks available in the "United
States and Canada, east of the Eockies, De
cember 1 were 9,012,000 bushels smaller
than those of one year ago. The aggregate
of domestio stocks, both coasts, at European
storage points and afloat for Europe on the
1st init., is also nearly 10,000,000 bushels less
than on December 1, 1889.
Exports of wheat on the Pacific coast
continue very heavy, and would be heavier
did available tonnage permit. Wheat and
flour exports from San Francisco. T.innma
and Portland, Ore., this week are in excess
of 1,100,000 bnshcls of wheat. Total ex
ports, both coasts, equal 2,487,183 bushels,
against 1,911,033 bushels last week, and
2,327,342 bushels in the like week last year.
Total exports July 1 to date, equal 43,966,
875 bushels against 44,851,855 bushels in
1889, 47,000,000 bushels in 1888, and 68,000,
000 bushels in a like portion oi 1887.
Business failures reported to Bradslrcet't
number 321 in the United States this week
against 233 last week and 281 this week last
year. Canada had 27 this week, against 36
last week. The total number ot failures in
the United States from January to date is
9,501 against 10,653 in a like portion of
1889.
The Stringency In Commercial Loans.
It. G. Dun & Co., in their weekly review,
say: "Stringency in commercial loans, no
ticed last week as the chief cause of mesent
disturbance, is now almost the only remain
ing cause. In domestic affairs there has
been a distinct improvement in the dispo
sition of banks and money lenders
to give necessary support to legitimate busi
ness, curtailing speculative advances as far
as possible; but the volume of trade is still
surprisingly heavy, and, as clearing house
exchanges and railroad earnings prove, the
returns from many centers of trade are
larger than ever before at this season. With
time and a spirit of mutual helpfulness, the
legitimate business of tbe country should
recover its normal state of health soon.
Very numerous and full reports from ether
cities this week show tbat the cheapness of
cotton at the South and the delay of winter
weather at the North, have somewhat re
duced transactions and caused more tardi
ness in collections than heretofore, but
colder weather and the approach of the holi
day season already begin to have a favor
able effect at many points.
Improved Trade in Many Cities.
Thus at St. Louis, trade is improved in
all seasonable lines; excellent at Baltimore,
and better at Detroit and Boston. At most
Southern points the slower movement oi
cotton, on account of low prices, is named as
the principal cause of delay in collections.
At Dallas, while money is tight, banks have
made advances are urging shipments, and
within a radius of 100 miles there are said
to be over 8,000,000 to 810,000,000 worth of
cotton ready to be forwarded.
Banks are generally taking care of their
customers as far as they are able, and tbe
movement of sugar at New Orleans is large
at good prices. In the Northwest, while a
conservative feeling appears and money is
generally in sharp demand there is noted
greater ease. At Cincinnati and one or two
other points and at Chicago necessary ad
vances for legitimate business are made to
the exclnsion of long drawn out or specula
tive demands. Country trade is healthy,'
and no fears for the future are expressed. -
At Boston there is a better feeling. Provi
dence notes quiet trade. At Hartford banks
take care of their customers, whose needs
are large, manufacturing having greatly in
creased. At New Haven money is com
paratively steady, though some houses' find
collections harder than for ten years past.
Manufactures, Drygoods and Produce.
Philadelphia reports some activity in hol
iday trades, though the grocery trade is only
fair. Wool is extremely dull, and tea and
coffee flat, About 6,000,000 Clearing Honaa,
t certificates are out, and banks are discount
ing custom house paper liberally, i
The movement of products at Chicago
shows an increase over last vearof one-half
in oats, dressed beef and barley, some in
crease in lard, cheese and hides, and a de
crease in wheat, flour, corn, cured meats and
wool. In general, the volume of trade
throughout the country is so heavy that
with the advance of 1 per cent in prices
since a year ago, larger supplies of money
are absorbed.
The speculative markets for the products
are relatively high already, wheat having
advanced a shade for the week, and corn no
less than 2 cents, oil 1 cent and pork 25
cents per barrel, though lard and hogs are a
shade lower and cotton and coQce un
changed. There is no especial change noted
in the great industries, though pig iron is
rather weaker in tone.
Demands for finished products of iron and
steel are still large, though distinctly less
than a month ago, and rails are weak with
scanty sales.
Woolen manufacturers are much more
hopeful nnd more confident than they were
six months or a year ago, but they are mov
ing with caution. Labor troubles are' very
lew, and the industry of the country is re
markably well employed at fair wages.
A TOLSTOI colony has been In existence
in Kentucky for some time. It is an abbey
backed by millions and no woman has ever
set foot inside of it. The diet is purely
vegetarian and the colonists beat themselves
with knotted ropes each night before retir
ing. See to-morrow8 24-page paper. All
the news.
EQUAL TO ITS PBEDECESS0BS
Will be the Thirty-First Free Organ Recital
This Afternoon.
The thirtieth iree organ recital at Car
negie Hall this afternoon, commencing'at 3
o'clock, will be, without doubt, as interest
ing as any of its predecessors. Many novel
ties are comprised in the programme, among
them one of Ethelbert Nevin's popular
songs; a potpourri of Victor Nessler's
charming but forgotten opera, "The Rat
catcher of Hamelin," .and the selection with
which Clarence Eddy opened the great
organ in the Chicago Auditorium, and
which he forwarded to City Organist Wales,
with his compliments, enabling the latter to
perform it before the music appears for the
use of the public. The soprano of to-day is
Miss Helen Grimes. Mr. W. W. Light
body, precentor of the U. P. Church, will
sing a bass solo. The programme in lull is
as follows:
Overture, "Merry Wives of Windsor".. rflcolai
Sa. Mennett Edward Scbutt
6. Gavotte Adolph Schloesser
c Gavotte Camillo Saint-Saens
Vocal. "One SpringMormng". Ethelbert Nevln
Potponrn. "Der Rattenfaenger von Hame
lin" Victor Nessler
J a. Valse Lome, "Sylvia" Leo Delibes
) 6. Valse Miniature Erile Meyer-Helmund
Vocal, "A Mariner's Home's tbe Sea"....
...Randegger
Fantasia Tnomphale Tli. Dubois
Arranged bv Clarence Eddy.
Strauss' "Autograph Waltzes"... A. E. Warren
Vocal, "Bobolink" J. W.Blichoff
Overture, "Zanetta" Auber
"Une Cavalcade Chinoise".. Herman Nnrnberg
GRAIN DEALEES IK MANITOBA
They Are Bitter Agalnstthe Canadian Pacific
for Alleged Discrimination.
Winnipeg, Dec. 5. A big row is brew
ing between the Canadian Pacific and the
grain dealers, and tbe railway is accused by
many grain buyers of giving a big reduction
on wheat rates to the Lake of the Woods
Milling Company, which is controlled by
the road magnates and the Ogilvies. Both
firms are the largest grain dealers in the
country..
These two firms are paying such high fig
ures for- wheat that all other dealers have
been forced to retire from competition as
buyers. They claim that the road must be
giving a rebate to the roads named, as other
wise tbey could not pay the prices they are
paying. It is claimed that the object is
political, and tbat the company is being in
fluenced by the Dominion Government,
which is bound to see the price paid for
wheat in Manitoba as high as that paid in
Minnesota and the Dakotas.
THEY DEMAND BETTER ABT.
Germans in Cincinnati Dissatisfied With a
Theater's Management.
Cincinnati, Dec. 5. A growing dis
satisfaction with the performances of the
German Tneater having manifested itself
for some time among patrons and the Ger
man citizens in general, the German Press
Club of Cincinnati thought it advisable to
take tbe matter in hand, and decided to try
and abate the evil.
At a meeting to-day a resolution was
adopted declaring the present management
of the German Theater to be sadly deficient,
and by no means in accordance with the re
quirements of the art-loving German popu
lation of this city, and that the president be
authorized to appoint a committee of 12 mem
bers to examine into tbe matter and make
snch proposals that would lead to an im
provement iu German theatricals for the
next and all coming seasons.
CABLE LETTERS from all over Europe
are special features of TO-MORROW'S DIS
PATCH. See for yourself. Twenty.ronr
pages.
8H00TING NEAELY OVEE.
The Game Laws Will Stop tho Hunter's Fun
in a Few Days.
"People who are fond of game had better pre
pare to satisfy their desire for It during the next
few weeks," remarked Mr. W. S. Brown yester
day. "Tbe law licenses for shooting the
priacidal game to be found in thi3 market all
expire this month," be continued. "Quail and
deer come in for protection on the loth, while
rabbits, squirrels, turkeys and pheasants are
exempt, under tho law, from the wiles of
hunters on and after January L It is usually
customary to allow dealers a week or so In
which to get rid of their stock on hand, bnt tbe
people in tbis vicinity ususually do not stand
mnch nonsense."
Mr. Brown said reports from all sections
clearly indicated that this bad been the best
season sportsmen had known for years and
years. Tbe open weather of last winter had
made tbe game supplr remarkably abundant.
A great many wild turkeys had been killed in
tbe mountain districts, while the woods and
fields were fairly oveirun with smaller game.
In the Cheat river regions and abont Rodney,
Y. Va.. a great many deer had been killed.
Mr. Brown declared tbat Pittsburg bad more
sportsmen now than at any other period during
the city's existence. This was due to the in
fluence of tbe various gun clubs. Tbe regular
shoots at inanimate targets had stimulated tbe
desire for field sports, and tho membershln of
the clubs was constantly on tbe increaseT
Many young men were taking an interest in
tbe wholesome pasti me, and local organizations
were fast becoming very formidable. He said
tho tariff regulations bad increased the cost of
certain classes of foreign-made firearms, but
the increase was not very extensive. All
classes of amunition were selling at the same
old rates.
EVA HAMILTON FBEE.
The Death or Her Victim Destroys a Possi
bility of Her Conviction.
New Yobk, Dec 5. Judge Martine to
day dismissed the indictment against Eva
Hamilton, Joshua Manu and Mrs. Annie
Swinton, charging them with conspiring to
defraud the late Robert Eay Hamilton by
passing off a waif as his child and also with
grand larceny.
The ground on which Judge Martine
acted was tbat Mr. Hamilton was dead, and
that no conviction on the charge could be
secured without bis testimony.
Smuggled Opium Seized.
Tacoma, Wasii., Dec 5. The Custom
House officials seized 20O pounds ot opium
on board the steamer Olympian and ar
rested the fireman of the vessel on its ar
rival here from. Victoria. yesterday.
m
MYSTERY I II GMT H
1UD
Pecuniarily speaking, Hibbitson and my
self had not a feather to fly with. Just as
in an advanced stage of moulting, no creat
ure appears more dejected and utterly mis
erable than a rooster, difficult, indeed, would
it have been to discover two bipeds more
completely cornered than were we.
Constant chums, we had spent our last
half-cronn (Hibbitson pawned his umbrella
Tor the amount), in a cheap dinner, nnd in a
melancholy mood we were smoking a divided
penny screw of tobacco as we discussed
ways and means.
"There is nothing left for me, as far as I
can see," I remarked, "but to enlist as a sol
dier. Thank goodness, fate is not so inex
orable but that I have a choice between a
barracks and the workhouse, and the
Queen's thilling decides me in favor of the
former. Unless something turns up before
this time to-morrow, Hib, old boy, that
precious coin shall be mine, and we will
spend it in a sorrowful glass, and take a
last embrace."
"I observe," returned Hibbitson, in tones
of mild reproach, "that you don't suggest
that I shall be your redcoat comrade."
He was not of tbe stuff soldiers are made
of, being narrow chested and too short for
tbe service, not to mention his being afflicted
with a club foot.
"Why, dash it all, Hib, you must know
that I did not intend "
"Of course you didn't. But I tell you
what, Sid, if I was a strapping, good look
ing chap, like yourself, and it came to
taking a desperate mind you, a very des
perate step I should scorn to go soldiering
at any rate"
"What, then, would yon do?"
"I would get married."
I laughed. "To an heiress, of course!"
"Of course, to a party with money, or
where would be the use? Oh, you may
laugh, but I mean it." And he puffed his
pipe as though he reallv did.
"What nonsense! You mean it! What
woman with money would marry a poor
devil like me? Why, I couldn't put the
banns up, unless they gave me tick for the
cost of them."
"No matter for that," returned Hibbitson,
with increased earnestness, and as though
his idea was expanding. "There are scores
of women with money who would marry
you, and jump at the chance, if you were not
too particular as regards beauty."
"My dear Hib, introduce me to the pig
faced "lady by Jove! that's the last puff in
my pipe, and there is no more bacca intro
duce me, I say. to the pig-laced lady, with a
future of a thousand a year, and we will be
married by special license, and you shall be
my best man at the wedding."
Hibbitson made no reply, but pulled so
energetically at his pipe, that I lost sight of
his face in the , cloud of smoke he raised.
Presently he emerged from it, jumping up
from his" chair and laying a hand on my
shoulder.
"Sid, can you talk seriously for a few min
utes? Are you really willing to marry?"
"What, to the pig"
"No, no, not so bad as that. But what
would you say to a ladv of means, who was
perfectly eligible, personally, except, save,
for a bad squint."
"So long as she was able to look favorably
on me I wouldn't much mind."
"Or, supposing she had a cork leg?"
"What, in addition to a bad squintdo you
mean? Well. I should like to stipulate for
an extra hundred a year for that. But what
is your dritt, Hib? What's in the wind?"
"That's as may happen. Give me this
assurance, and we need not discuss the mat
ter any further just at present you wonld
marry a young woman, who, to put it
mildly, was not exactly a Venus, provided
sn'e was of unblemished reputation and
kindly and possessed of plenty o! money."
"My reply to that, Fred Hibbitson," said
I, grasping his hand, "is, try me."
I saw no more ot my mend for three days
iu fact, it seemed as though he carefully
avoided me aud then he paid me an early
morning visit, with letters in his hand, and
looking radiant.
"Hurrah!" exclaimed Hibbitson, flourish
ing the papers as he burst into my room (he
would have found me up and dressed had he
come half an hour later.) "Hurrah, Sid.
I have done tbe trick for you, by Jove! No
more tobaccoless pouches! No more snub
bing by landladies, and note3 left on the
candlestick. Your fortune is as good as
made by boy! I have done it for you; Isaid
I would."
"But what has happened? What is it
you bave been doing?"
"Doing? Why, moving tbat mighty en
gine of progress thejpress in your behalf. I
have been advertising."
I had nearly forgotten all about our con
versation rela'ting to matrimony, when I was
last in his company.
"Advertising on my behalf, and obtained
a situation for me, eh? Bravo! What sort
of a job is it, Hib? But is it to go as a por
ter? It will have to be as a very light one
you know. My delicate constitution "
"Not another word, you vagabond!" he
interrupted me, gleefully, at the same time
threatening me with a bootjack, "not an
other syllable at your peril until I have
read you one or two of the letters, brought to
me by tbe postman not half an hour since.
But, first of all, I had best perhaps en
lighten you as to tbe advertisement that
produced them. And he produced a small
scrap of print and read from it:
"Matrimony A gentleman, aged 27, B
feet 10 in height, and broad in proportion,
well educated and good looking, and pos
sessing 8 lively and agreeable disposition,
is desirous of marrying. His professional
pursuits are not as yet lucrative, but may
improve. His present object is to escape
those snares to which impecunious young
men are most liable, and he offers bis hand
and heart to a lady of irreproachable char
acter, of moderate means, and whose age
does not exceed 30. if. h. a pretty face,
or physical perfection on tbe lady's part not
absolutely indispensable."
"Tbat, sir," continued niDDitson, "is the
advertisement your advertisement, I may
say. It appeared in the paper only yester
day morning, and it has already elicited
three replies; with one of them I will not
trouble you. In that case the lady, who
owns to being a widow and acknowledges
that she is rather more than 30, informs you
that she would be considered good looking
except for her nose, which sustained an in
jury through her falling down a flight of
stone steps when she was a child, and in
consequence of which she still is compelled
to have her head shaved, and is subject to
fits. So we will pass by the widow, my boy.
This one hear it:"
"In reply to the advertisement in tbe
Daily Telephone of this day, and initialed
S. D.,' I beg to say that if the said adver
tisement is strictly genuine, and S. D. a
gentleman, he may find all thathe seeks by
arranging an Interview with the writer. Her
means are ample, her age under 25, and she
is afflicted with no physical deformity of
face or figure. She is well educated, and,
but for one blemish, thoroughly fitted to
enjoy life and agreeable companionship.
Address, in the first place, 'Adeie,' Post
office, Putney."
Hibbitson handed me the letter, which
was well written and in a lady-like hand. I
found that the word "physical" was un
derlined, as were the two words, "one blem
ish." "Now, what the deuce, Hib, can be that
'blemish?' It is a formidable one, I'll
wager 1"
"Twenty-five," murmured Hibbitson.tak
ing up the letter and reading from it.
"Tnoroughly fiUed to enjov life and
agreeable companionship. Ample means!
But only one blemish, mind you. She's
particular in making herself understood on
that point. Pooh! it ii a chance in a
thousand. What woman alive is not afflict
ed with a blemish of some kind ocothei?-
u,
There are many that have half a dozen,
although they manage to conceal them until
after they are married. You will write to
Putney, of course?"
And more to humor Hibbitson than that
I was actuated by any serious intention, I
did so. I addressed a brief note to "Adeie,"
at the Putney postoffice, suggesting an in
terview, and a prompt reply was returned,
invitingme to an address at Fulham.
It was a most mysterious business. The
house was well situated and artistically fur
nished, and on being ushered upstairs an
old lady was there to meet me, and my not
unnatural apprehension that I should find
myself the victim of a hoax, vanished the
moment I set eyes on her. She was highly
respectable and well mannered, but unmis
takably nervous. She was very anxious to
see rue, she said, before I was introduced to
her niece. Appearances, she knew, wera
not much to go by, but, so far as her poor
judgment went, she thought it her duty to
exercise it in Adele's behalf. She most sin
cerely hoped that I was not regarding the
matter as a joke. If so, might she earnestly
beg of me and tears were in the old lady s
eyes as she addressed me to save her niec
and herself further humiliation and embar
rassment, by withdrawing forthwith.
I assured her that nothing was further
from thoughts than to amuse myself at the
expense of a sensitive girl.
"Indeed, madam," I added, "although
my acceptance of your niece's invitation is
in perfectly good faith, I have no wish to
cause her the least annoyance. If you will
kindly tell me what is the one biemixb, and
I should feel compelled to regard it as an
insuperable objection, we need not move
any further in the matter, and, as a gentle
man, I shall treat your confidence as invio
lable." But she sadly shook her head.
"Your request is quite reasonable," she
remarked, "out I ought to tell you that I
am not at liberty to accede to it."
"But you can satisfy me this far, at all
events the young lady 13 in possession of
her intellectual faculties?"
The sorrowiul expression on the old lady's
eyes gave place to a brighter twinkle as she
replied:
"How absurd that you should ask such a
question. Bnt I beg your pardon. You
would, of course, be more anxious on that
account than any other. Yes, sir, Adeie is
in the fullest possible possession of her
senses."
"And the the one blemish! Is it
bodily?"
"No!"
"Has she pray pardon me has she the
use of her limbs? She is not bedridden or
incurably crippled?"
"My good sir, no!" And the old lady's
momentary flush of indignation gave place
before the twinkle in her eyes again. "My
niece 13 quite free Irom bodily ailment, and
active as a fawn."
"Then the 'blemish' must exist in the un
fortunate young lady's face. Is she then so
very ugly?"
There was a drawing on an easel in a cor
ner of the room. It wxs unfinished, but the
face was that of not a hand.-ome girl, but of
one that was decidedly winning and lov
able. "That," said the old lady, "is Adele's
portrait, as far as she has got on with it, en
larged Irom a photograph taken two years
since. I have not the original at hand, but
the likeness is very striking."
"Why then, madam," I exclaimed, un
able to conceal my delight, "let me offer yon
a thousand apologies for my string of ridicu
lous question, and beg of you to permit me
to see the young lady without further de
lay." Adele's aunt left me by myself. Herewas
an inexplicable enigma. What was the
"blemish," that was no blemish at 311? She
was young, fully as nice looking as any lady
of my acquaintance, her mental faculties
were unimpaired, her bodilv health was per
fect. I was in the midst of bewildering specula
tions, when the old ladv returned brinsrinir
Adeie with her. The latter was of medium,
height and of graceful figure, but she wore
a veil!
A gray veil of light material, but quite im
penetrable to those who gazed on her. Bound
her head she had beautiful hair and a pro
fusion of it she wore a very narrow circlet
of tortoise shell, and to tbis the top of the
veil was attached in such a way that her face
Irom the very summit of her forehead down
ward was invisible, the lower part of the
gauze not hanging loose, but secured at her
bosom.
Although as already intimated I
could not make out a single feature of hers,
she evidently could see me distinctly
enough, and as I rose to greet her, I could
feel that I was under inspection. The
brief survey did not seem to be displeasing
to her, and she advanced and offered me
her hand. Then she sat down, the old lady
remaining in the room, and we chatted to
gether, she taking her part with as mnch
ease and freedom as though I were a privi
leged acquaintance who bad made an
ordinary morning call. No reference was
made to the oDJect of my visit. She
was well read, and obviously critical. She
knew mnch more than I of the latest novels
and plays, and was conversant with the
current topics of the day, nor was she at all
deficient of a sense of humor, as her fre
quent musical laugh testified.
The conversation presently touched on
the arts and sciences, and then I contrived
on delicate ground and complimented her
on her artistic skill as displayed in the
drawing.
"It is a thousand pities," said I slowly,
"that the original of such a charming face
should remain for a momfent hidden."
On tbis, the old lady immediately applied
her handkerchief to hereves, and her niece's
manner saddened as quickly.
"An insupportable hardship you think it, -probably,"
she remarked quietly.
"Eor yourself, my dear madam. Yes, X
can scarcely imagine a greater hardship."
"It must be borne with, however," said
Adeie with a sigh.
"For the present you mean, of course?
The the inconvenience is but temporary?"
"xou are entitled to asg tbe question,"
she replied;' "our present business" (with a
bitter stress on the last word) "justifies it.
You shall be answered truthtully. The in
convenience, as you considerately term it, is
not temporary. It is the lasting curse of a
lifetime."
"But the portrait," I remarked, hesitat
ingly, "is your own drawiug. Your aunt has
already informed me that it is strikingly
like you."
"What! As regards features and expres
sion? Oh, yes!" Then with a shrug of her
fair shoulders, significant of her contempt
for the; trivialities mentioned, "the likeness
in those respects is passable, I believe."
"In those respects! Why, surely in those
two qualities all tbe conditions are fulfilled.
What else can such a face be but pleasant to
look on "
But she interrupted my further speech
with a laugh such as I never heard before,
and placed her outspread hands before her
veiled image, as though she feared my earn
est gaze might penetrate its gauzy covering.
"Pleasant!" she exclaimed passionately,
"you would not be so cruel if you but knew.
Pleasant! why it is a face to scare a beggar
looking down on him from a window. The
Very dogs bark at it!"
"Oh, Adeie, Adeie!" cried the old lady
wofully, as she rose from her chair and em
braced her niece and kissed her, "you should
not say such things. Is not the truth dread
ful enough, that you should exaggerate it?"
This was alarming. "Ladies," I re
marked, speaking with all the cheerfulness
I could muster, "we are in confidence here.
After what I have heard, I cannit be much
startled at all events. Permit me to judge .
of this 'dreadful truth,' for myself."
But she shrank back and fled from the
room.
"Well, sir," the old lady anxiously re rZ
aarjcea wnen ner niece was sone "a ?:
-A
i
-1
1
I.