text:
This action might not be possible to undo. Are you sure you want to continue?
] NEW YORK EDWARD J. CLODE COPYRIGHT, 1921, 1922, BY EDWARD J. CLODE _Printed in the United States of America_
PREFACE The ways of telling a story are as many as the tellers themselves. It is impossible to lay down precise rules by which any one may perfect himself in the art, but it is possible to offer suggestions by which to guide practise in narration toward a gratifying success. Broadly distinguished, there are two methods of telling a story. One uses the extreme of brevity, and makes its chief reliance on the point. The other devotes itself in great part to preliminary elaboration in the narrative, making this as amusing as possible, so that the point itself serves to cap a climax. In the public telling of an anecdote the tyro would be well advised to follow the first method. That is, he should put his reliance on the point of the story, and on this alone. He should scrupulously limit himself to such statements as are absolutely essential to clear understanding of the point. He should make a careful examination of the story with two objects in mind: the first, to determine just what is required in the way of explanation; the second, an exact understanding of the point itself. Then, when it comes to the relating of the story, he must simply give the information required by the hearers in order to appreciate the point. As to the point itself, he must guard against any carelessness. Omission of an essential detail is fatal. It may be well for him, at the outset, to memorize the conclusion of the story. No matter how falteringly the story is told, it will succeed if the point itself be made clear, and this is insured for even the most embarrassed speaker by memorizing it. The art of making the whole narration entertaining and amusing is to be attained only by intelligent practise. It is commonly believed that story-sellers are born, not made. As a matter of fact, however, the
skilled raconteurs owe their skill in great measure to the fact that they are unwearying in practise. It is, therefore, recommended to any one having ambition in this direction that he cultivate his ability by exercising it. He should practise short and simple stories according to his opportunities, with the object of making the narration smooth and easy. An audience of one or two familiar friends is sufficient in the earlier efforts. Afterward, the practise may be extended before a larger number of listeners on social occasions. When facility has been attained in the simplest form, attempts to extend the preliminary narrative should be made. The preparation should include an effort to invest the characters of the story; or its setting, with qualities amusing in themselves, quite apart from any relation to the point. Precise instruction cannot be given, but concentration along this line will of itself develop the humorous perception of the story-teller, so that, though the task may appear too difficult in prospect, it will not prove so in actual experience. But, in every instance, care must be exercised to keep the point of the story clearly in view, and to omit nothing essential in the preparation for it. In the selection of stories to be retailed, it is the part of wisdom to choose the old, rather than the new. This is because the new story, so called, travels with frightful velocity under modern social conditions, and, in any particular case, the latest story, when told by you to a friend, has just been heard by him from some other victim of it. But the memory of most persons for stories is very short. Practically never does it last for years. So, it is uniformly safe to present as novelties at the present day the humor of past decades. Moreover, the exercise of some slight degree of ingenuity will serve to give those touches in the way of change by which the story may be brought up to date. Indeed, by such adaptation, the story is made really one's own--as the professional humorists thankfully admit!
INTRODUCTION Wit and humor, and the distinction between them, defy precise definition. Luckily, they need none. To one asking what is beauty, a wit replied: "That is the question of a blind man." Similarly, none requires a definition of wit and humor unless he himself be lacking in all appreciation of them, and, if he be so lacking, no amount of explanation will avail to give him understanding. Borrow, in one of his sermons, declared concerning wit: "It is, indeed, a thing so versatile, multiform, appearing in so many shapes and garbs, so variously apprehended of several eyes and judgments, that it seemeth no less hard to settle a clear and certain notion thereof than to make a portrait of Proteus, or to define the figure of the fleeting wind." Nor is it fitting to attempt exact distinctions between wit and humor, which are essentially two aspects of one thing. It is enough to realize that humor is the product of nature rather than of art, while wit is the expression of an intellectual art. Humor exerts an emotional appeal, produces smiles or laughter; wit may be amusing, or it may not, according to the circumstances, but it always provokes an intellectual appreciation. Thus, Nero made a pun on the name of Seneca, when the philosopher was brought before him for sentence. In speaking the decree that the old man should kill himself, the emperor used merely the two Latin words: "Se
neca." We admit the ghastly cleverness of the jest, but we do not chuckle over it. The element of surprise is common to both wit and humor, and it is often a sufficient cause for laughter in itself, irrespective of any essentially amusing quality in the cause of the surprise. The unfamiliar, for this reason, often has a ludicrous appeal to primitive peoples. An African tribe, on being told by the missionary that the world is round, roared with laughter for hours; it is told of a Mikado that he burst a blood-vessel and died in a fit of merriment induced by hearing that the American people ruled themselves. In like fashion, the average person grins or guffaws at sight of a stranger in an outlandish costume, although, as a matter of fact, the dress may be in every respect superior to his own. Simply, its oddity somehow tickles the risibilities. Such surprise is occasioned by contrasting circumstances. When a pompous gentleman, marching magnificently, suddenly steps on a banana peel, pirouettes, somersaults, and sits with extreme violence, we laugh before asking if he broke a leg. The fundamentals of wit and humor are the same throughout all the various tribes of earth, throughout all the various ages of history. The causes of amusement are essentially the same everywhere and always, and only the setting changes according to time and place. But racial characteristics establish preferences for certain aspects of fun-making, and such preferences serve to some extent in differentiating the written humor of the world along the lines of nationality. Nevertheless, it is a fact that the really amusing story has an almost universal appeal. I have seen in an American country newspaper a town correspondent's humorous effort in which he gave Si Perkins's explanation of being in jail. And that explanation ran on all fours with a Chinese story ages and ages old. The local correspondent did not plagiarize from the Chinaman: merely, the humorous bent of the two was identical. In the ancient Oriental tale, a man who wore the thief's collar as a punishment was questioned by an acquaintance concerning the cause of his plight. "Why, it was just nothing at all," the convict explained easily. "I was strolling along the edge of the canal, when I happened to catch sight of a bit of old rope. Of course, I knew that old piece of rope was of no use to anyone, and so I just picked it up, and took it home with me." "But I don't understand," the acquaintance exclaimed. "Why should they punish you so severely for a little thing like that? I don't understand it." "I don't understand it, either," the convict declared, "unless, maybe, it was because there was an ox at the other end of the rope." The universality of humor is excellently illustrated in Greek literature, where is to be found many a joke at which we are laughing to-day, as others have laughed through the centuries. Half a thousand years before the Christian era, a platonic philosopher at Alexandria, by name Hierocles, grouped twenty-one jests in a volume under the title, "Asteia." Some of them are still current with us as typical Irish bulls. Among these were accounts of the "Safety-first" enthusiast who determined never to enter the water until he had learned to swim; of the horse-owner, training his nag to live without eating, who was successful in reducing the feed to a straw a day, and was about to cut this off when the animal spoiled the test by dying untimely; of the fellow who
posed before a looking glass with his eyes closed, to learn how he looked when asleep; of the inquisitive person who held a crow captive in order to test for himself whether it would live two centuries; of the man who demanded to know from an acquaintance met in the street whether it was he or his twin brother who had just been buried. Another Greek jest that has enjoyed a vogue throughout the world at large, and will doubtless survive even prohibition, was the utterance of Diogenes, when he was asked as to what sort of wine he preferred. His reply was: "That of other people." Again, we may find numerous duplicates of contemporary stories of our own in the collection over which generations of Turks have laughed, the tales of Nasir Eddin. In reference to these, it may be noted that Turkish wit and humor are usually distinguished by a moralizing quality. When a man came to Nasir Eddin for the loan of a rope, the request was refused with the excuse that Nasir's only piece had been used to tie up flour. "But it is impossible to tie up flour with a rope," was the protest. Nasir Eddin answered: "I can tie up anything with a rope when I do not wish to lend it." When another would have borrowed his ass, Nasir replied that he had already loaned the animal. Thereupon, the honest creature brayed from the stable. "But the ass is there," the visitor cried indignantly. "I hear it!" Nasir Eddin retorted indignantly: "What! Would you take the word of an ass instead of mine?" In considering the racial characteristics of humor, we should pay tribute to the Spanish in the person of Cervantes, for _Don Quixote_ is a mine of drollery. But the bulk of the humor among all the Latin races is of a sort that our more prudish standards cannot approve. On the other hand, German humor often displays a characteristic spirit of investigation. Thus, the little boy watching the pupils of a girls' school promenading two by two, graded according to age, with the youngest first and the oldest last, inquired of his mother: "Mama, why is it that the girls' legs grow shorter as they grow older?" In the way of wit, an excellent illustration is afforded by Heine, who on receiving a book from its author wrote in acknowledgment of the gift: "I shall lose no time in reading it." The French are admirable in both wit and humor, and the humor is usually kindly, though the shafts of wit are often barbed. I remember a humorous picture of a big man shaking a huge trombone in the face of a tiny canary in its cage, while he roars in anger: "That's it! Just as I was about, with the velvety tones of my instrument, to imitate the twittering of little birds in the forest, you have to interrupt with your infernal din!" The caustic quality of French wit is illustrated plenteously by Voltaire. There is food for meditation in his utterance: "Nothing is so disagreeable as to be obscurely hanged." He it was, too, who sneered at England for having sixty religions and only one gravy. To an adversary in argument who quoted the minor prophet Habakkuk, he retorted contemptuously: "A person with a name like that is capable of saying anything." But French wit is by no means always of the cutting sort. Its more amiable aspect is shown by the declaration of Brillat Savarin to the effect that a dinner without cheese is like a beautiful woman with only one eye. Often the wit is merely the measure of absurdity, as when a courtier in speaking of a fat friend said: "I found him sitting all
is capitally displayed in the following: The wife of a villager in Poitou became ill. of an Irish girl. I do not know you. The subject for debate that so fascinated the Dutchmen was: "Does the cod take the hook. recently imported. and at once handed him two dollars. The blood flowed from the wound. as the bearers of the body approached the turn of the path. As a matter of fact. On this occasion. so that she was pronounced dead. which deceived even the physician. History records a controversy between Holland and Zealand. but I come to you to borrow five-hundred luis. And now. He informed her that his charge was two dollars. with the crisp direction." Barnard answered with equal explicitness: "Monsieur. "Go ahead and marry me. I am the Marquis de Favieres. which was argued pro and con during a period of years with great earnestness. I am about to astonish you greatly. dismayed. who visited her clergyman and inquired his fee for marrying. friends!" The written humor of the Dutch does not usually make a very strong appeal to us. and lack in great measure the sarcasm and satire and the lighter subtlety in fun-making. Fourteen years elapsed before the good wife actually came to her deathbed. and duly prepared for burial. and I am going to lend them to you. I know you. the girl visited the clergyman for the second time. to use a paradoxical phrase. At a turning. the husband called to them: "Look out for the thorn tree. They are inclined to be ponderous even in their play. the ceremonial was repeated. no lack of the latter." And there is a ridiculous story of the impecunious and notorious Marquis de Favieres who visited a Parisian named Barnard. in the British colonies is to be found a spirit of humor that exactly parallels our own in many distinctive features. "Don't you furnish him for the two dollars?" It would seem that humor is rather more enjoyable to the British taste than wit. or does the hook take the cod?" Because British wit and humor often present themselves under aspects somewhat different from those preferred by us.around the table by himself." "Where is the bridegroom?" the clergyman asked. The procession followed a narrow path leading across the fields to the cemetery. indeed. But the people . to be borne to the burial place on the shoulders of four men chosen from the neighborhood. the British attainments in this direction are the best in the world. the body was wrapped in a sheet. Thus. next to our own. we belittle their efforts unjustly." The amiable malice. there is a Canadian story that might just as well have originated below the line. A month later. and presently fell into a trance. "What!" exclaimed the girl. though there is. I am going to astonish you much more. and she suddenly aroused to consciousness. which is often characteristic of French tales. a thorn tree stood so close that one of the thorns tore through the sheet and lacerated the woman's flesh. Following the local usage. Moreover. and announced himself as follows: "Monsieur.
mum. is a-blushin' with pride. mate. provokes the bitterest jibes of the Latins. When they were already on the scaffold in preparation for the supreme moment. His nose was large and of a purple hue. of the two men who had drunk not wisely but too well. who at the back door solicited alms of a suspicious housewife. there is only wholesome amusement in the woman's response to a vegetarian. who were about to be hanged at a public execution. Dickens relates an anecdote concerning two men. For example. 'cause it ain't stuck into other folks's business. not mince her words: "Go along with you! What? Be flesh of your flesh. it's a good thing we're not in that crowd. one of the pair lifted his voice in protest: "I shay. may on occasion be as trenchant as any French sally. we have the definition of gratitude as given by Sir Robert Walpole--"A lively sense of future favors." In spite of the gruesome setting and the gory antics of the bull." But British wit. who made her a proposal of marriage. which. on the contrary. and you a-living on cabbage? Go marry a grass widow!" The kindly spirit of British humor is revealed even in sarcastic jesting on the domestic relation. and perhaps the most famous. and the attending surgeon was moved to pity for her and indignation against her assailant. and questioned bluntly: "What makes your nose so red?" The tramp answered with heavy sarcasm: "That 'ere nose o' mine. The shortest of jokes. too.delight most in absurd situations that appeal to the risibilities without any injury to the feelings of others. "Who did this?" he demanded. She had been shockingly beaten. was in the single word of _Punch's_ advice to those about to get married: "Don't!" The like good nature is in the words of a woman who was taken to a hospital in the East End of London. with the result that in the small hours they retired to rest in the gutter. "W'y. no!" she declared huffily. the story is amusing in a way quite harmless." The Marquis of Salisbury once scored a clumsy partner at whist by his answer to someone who asked how the game progressed: "I'm doing . my 'usband 'e 's more like a friend nor a 'usband!" Likewise. a bull being led to market broke loose and ran amuck through the great crowd assembled to witness the hanging. For example. The woman stared at it with an accusing eye. while often amiable enough. She did. le's go to nuzzer hotel--this leaksh!" Or the incident of the tramp. Presently. and remarked: "I say. Similarly. One of the condemned men on the scaffold turned to his fellow. "Was it your husband?" "Lor' bless yer.
Cried he. is not to be taken too seriously. * * * "I never heard you do anything else. He professed himself a man of many sorrows. for their devotion to the grotesque in humor. So he laid down his arms. as well. that a man who would make a pun would pick a pocket. or for its amusing quality. Naturally. and in notifying the government at home of this victory he sent a dispatch of one word. His work abounds in an ingenious and admirable mingling of wit and humor. In illustration of the Scotch character. or for the combination of the two.'" It is doubtless true that it would require a surgical operation to get a joke into some particular Scotchman's head. stories of thrift and penuriousness are told of the Scotch without doing them much injustice. Of the really amusing kind are the innumerable puns of Hood. And used to war's alarms. and may please either for its cleverness. This drew the retort from another auditor: "Difficult! I wish to heaven it were impossible!" Americans are famous. who made reference to an oyster so large that it took two men to swallow it whole. although it has been attributed to various later celebrities. "nothing is wanted but the mind. Lamb mentioned in a letter how Wordsworth had said that he did not see much difficulty in writing like Shakespeare. a conspicuous example of such amusing absurdity was given by Thackeray. 'And the Forty-Second Foot." but he captured Scinde. It is undeniable that the British are fond of puns. and it is rather profitless to attempt distinctions as to the humorous sense of these as contrasted with the English." And again. and inflicted . It is usual to sneer at the pun as the lowest form of wit. But the pun may contain a very high form of wit. including Doctor Johnson: A concert singer was executing a number lurid with vocal pyrotechnics. Johnson's saying. "And as they took him off the field. who was attacked by three footpads.as well as could be expected. 'Let others shoot. while not calculated to cause laughter. and frequently. "_Peccavi_" ("I have sinned"). who had to be a lively Hood for a livelihood. But a cannon ball took off his legs." Then there is the famous quip that runs back to Tudor times. we may cite the story of the visitor to Aberdeen. while bulls are designated Irish with sufficient reasonableness. 'For here I leave my second leg. and sometimes infamous. alas! it too often is. Yet. Such. Many of the British humorists have been either Scotch or Irish. considering that I have three adversaries. An admirer remarked that the piece was tremendously difficult. when Coleridge said to him: "Charles. "Clearly. He fought them desperately. Usually. the really excellent pun has always been in favor with the wits of all countries. For example: "Ben Battle was a soldier bold. But we have some persons of the sort even in our own country. if he had a mind to try it. The pun is of the sort that may be appreciated intellectually for its cleverness. did you ever hear me lecture?"." So the retort of Lamb. it is a form of no wit at all." Lamb continued. It is not recorded that Napier ever "pinched a leather.
It was such a good day for them!" And in the moralizing vein." And it was an Irishman who remarked to another concerning a third: "You are thin. We ape the old. in describing his experiences." And there is the classic from _Punch_ of the Scotchman. we may quote an Irishman's answer when asked to define a bull." He it was who in addressing the Irish House of Commons asserted stoutly: "Single misfortunes never come alone. on being overtaken by a storm. Yet. it was an Irishman who." Also. We moralize in our jesting like the Turk. he'd have killed the three of us. we'll get under a tree. faith. in plaintive reminiscence concerning the dear departed. but are likely to veil the maxim under the motley of a Yiddish dialect. He said: "If you see thirteen cows lying down in a field. who. that's a bull. remarked to his friend: "Sure. Our humor may be as meditative as the German at its best. When at last he had been subdued and searched the only money found on him was a crooked sixpence. the composite character of our population multiplies the varying phases of our fun. and I am thin. I guess he'd 'a' got plenty of squirrels. but fashion its semblance to suit our livelier fancy. Thus. we'll get under another." A celebrity to whom many Irish bulls have been accredited was Sir Boyle Roche. said musingly: "If John hadn't blowed into the muzzle of his gun. we Americans have our own bulls a plenty. that same Irish stock contributes largely and very snappily to our fund of humor. the widow. and whin it's wet through. We draw for laughter on all the almost countless racial elements that form our citizenry. One of the thieves remarked glumly: "If he'd had a good shilling. I am writing this with a sword in one hand and a pistol in the other.severe injuries. and the greatest of all possible misfortune is usually followed by a greater. if you ever come within a mile of my house. The newness of our land and nation gives zest to the pursuit of mirth. this: . on his return home from a visit to London. He wrote in a letter: "At this very moment. my dear----." And there is the hospitable invitation of the Irishman: "Sir. and one of them is standing up." Naturally. declared: "I had na been there an hour when bang! went saxpence!" Anent the Irish bull. For the matter of that. I hope you will stop there. but he's as thin as the two of us put together. and they are by no means all derived from our Irish stock. And the whole content of our wit and humor is made vital by the spirit of youth. but with a grotesque flavoring all our own.
who confessed that at first after his marriage he doted on his bride to such an extent that he wanted to eat her--later. Josh Billings made the announcement that one hornet. Irving." was the reply. Luckily. So of the husband. the kindly old lady in the elevator questioned the attendant brightly: "Don't you get awful tired." At times. even in the treatment of distressing themes. we have no lack of that harmless jesting which is more typically English.The little girl had been very naughty. "but I ain't big enough. it is produced only too abundantly." the boy in uniform admitted. be done. and an habitual drunkard. sonny? Is it the going up?' "No. could break up a whole camp meeting. The most distinctive flavor in American humor is that of the grotesque. Artemas Ward and many another American writer have given in profusion of amiable sillinesses to make the nation laugh. Thy will. sonny?" "It's the questions. So. a British subject. "What makes you so tired. "I know. Bill Nye. Our sophistication is such that this sort of thing amuses us. It was one of these that told how a drafted man sought exemption because he was a negro. mum." "Then what is it makes you so tired. who was asked by his mother as to what he would like to give his cousin for a birthday present. we are as cynical as the French. with pious resignation. It is characteristic in Mark Twain's best work. O God. sonny?" "Yes." And then. The American tourist brags of his own: "Talk of Vesuve--huh! Niag'll put her out in three minutes." And this of the little boy." That polished writer." Many of our humorists have maintained a constant geniality in their humor. mum. did not hesitate to declare that Uncle Sam believed the earth tipped when he went West. he was sorry that he hadn't. and. and it is characteristic of most of those others who have won fame as purveyors of laughter. in contrast to it. the dear child prayed: "And. For example. if it was feeling well. please make Nellie a good little girl." "Is it the going down?" "No. O God. over age. not mine. She was bidden by her mother to make an addition to the accustomed bedtime prayer--a request that God would make her a better girl. mum. mum. For example. she added: "Nevertheless. In the archives of our government is a state paper wherein President Lincoln referred to Mississippi gunboats with draught so light that they would float . a minister.
wherever the ground was a little damp. Typically American in its grotesquerie was the assertion of a rural humorist who asserted that the hogs thereabout were so thin they had to have a knot tied in their tails to prevent them from crawling through the chinks in the fence. Ward displayed the like quality amusingly in his remark to the conductor of a tediously slow-moving accommodation train in the South. From his seat in the solitary passenger coach behind the long line of freight cars, he addressed the official with great seriousness: "I ask you, conductor, why don't you take the cow-catcher off the engine and put it behind the car here? As it is now, there ain't a thing to hinder a cow from strolling into a car and biting a passenger." Similar extravagance appears in another story of a crawling train. The conductor demanded a ticket from a baldheaded old man whose face was mostly hidden in a great mass of white whiskers. "I give it to ye," declared the ancient. "I don't reckon so," the conductor answered. "Where did you get on?" "At Perkins' Crossin'," he of the hoary beard replied. The conductor shook his head emphatically. "Wasn't anybody got aboard at Perkins' Crossin' 'cept one little boy." "I," wheezed the aged man, "was that little boy." In like fashion, we tell of a man so tall that he had to go up on a ladder to shave himself--and down cellar to put his boots on. We Americans are good-natured, as is necessary for humor, and we have brains, as is necessary for wit, and we have the vitality that makes creation easy, even inevitable. So there is never any dearth among us of the spirit of laughter, of its multiform products that by their power to amuse make life vastly more agreeable. Every newspaper, and most magazines carry their quota of jests. Never, anywhere, was the good story so universally popular as in America today. It is received with gusto in the councils of government, in church, in club, in cross-roads store. The teller of good stories is esteemed by all, a blessing undisguised. The collection that follows in this volume is, it is believed, of a sort that will help mightily to build an honorable fame for the narrator. For greater convenience in references to the volume, the various stories and anecdotes are placed under headings arranged in alphabetical order. The heading in every case indicates the subject to which the narration may be directly applied. This will be found most useful in selecting illustrations for addresses of any sort, or for use in arguments. History tells us how Lincoln repeatedly carried conviction by expressing his ideas through the medium of a story. His method is rendered available for any one by this book.
STORIES. JOKES FOR ALL OCCASIONS ABSENTMINDEDNESS The man of the house finally took all the disabled umbrellas to the repairer's. Next morning on his way to his office, when he got up to leave the street car, he absentmindedly laid hold of the umbrella belonging to a woman beside him, for he was in the habit of carrying one. The woman cried "Stop thief!" rescued her umbrella and covered the man with shame and confusion. That same day, he stopped at the repairer's, and received all eight of his umbrellas duly restored. As he entered a street car, with the unwrapped umbrellas tucked under his arm, he was horrified to behold glaring at him the lady of his morning adventure. Her voice came to him charged with a withering scorn: "Huh! Had a good day, didn't you!" * * *
The absentminded inventor perfected a parachute device. He was taken up in a balloon to make a test of the apparatus. Arrived at a height of a thousand feet, he climbed over the edge of the basket, and dropped out. He had fallen two hundred yards when he remarked to himself, in a tone of deep regret: "Dear me! I've gone and forgotten my umbrella." * * *
The professor, who was famous for the wool-gathering of his wits, returned home, and had his ring at the door answered by a new maid. The girl looked at him inquiringly: "Um--ah--is Professor Johnson at home?" he asked, naming himself. "No, sir," the maid replied, "but he is expected any moment now." The professor turned away, the girl closed the door. Then the poor man sat down on the steps to wait for himself. * * *
The clergyman, absorbed in thinking out a sermon, rounded a turn in the path and bumped into a cow. He swept off his hat with a flourish, exclaiming: "I beg your pardon, madam." Then he observed his error, and was greatly chagrined. Soon, however, again engaged with thoughts of the sermon, he collided with a lady at another bend of the path.
"Get out of the way, you brute!" he said. * * *
The most absent-minded of clergymen was a Methodist minister who served several churches each Sunday, riding from one to another on horseback. One Sunday morning he went to the stable while still meditating on his sermon and attempted to saddle the horse. After a long period of toil, he aroused to the fact that he had put the saddle on himself, and had spent a full half hour in vain efforts to climb on his own back. ACQUAINTANCE The Scotchman who ran a livery was asked by a tourist as to how many the carryall would hold. "Fower generally," was the answer. "Likely sax, if they're weel aquaint." ACTORS The tragedian had just signed a contract to tour South Africa. He told a friend of it at the club. The friend shook his head dismally. "The ostrich," he explained in a pitying tone, "lays an egg weighing anywhere from two to four pounds." ADVERTISING The editor of the local paper was unable to secure advertising from one of the business men of the town, who asserted stoutly that he himself never read ads., and didn't believe anyone else did. "Will you advertise if I can convince you that folks read the ads.?" the editor asked. "If you can show me!" was the sarcastic answer. "But you can't." In the next issue of the paper, the editor ran a line of small type in an obscure corner. It read: "What is Jenkins going to do about it?" The business man, Jenkins, hastened to seek out the editor next day. He admitted that he was being pestered out of his wits by the curious. He agreed to stand by the editor's explanation in the forthcoming issue, and this was: "Jenkins is going to advertise, of course." Having once advertised, Jenkins advertises still. AFFECTION
There are as many aspects of grief as there are persons to mourn. A quality of pathetic and rather grisly humor is to be found in the incident of an English laborer, whose little son died. The vicar on calling to condole with the parents found the father pacing to and fro in the living-room with the tiny body in his arms. As the clergyman spoke phrases of sympathy, the father, with tears streaming down his cheeks, interrupted loudly: "Oh, sir, you don't know how I loved that li'll faller. Yus, sir, if it worn't agin the law, I'd keep him, an' have him stuffed, that I would!" AGE The woman confessed to her crony: "I'm growing old, and I know it. Nowadays, the policeman never takes me by the arm when he escorts me through the traffic." ALIBI The mother called in vain for her young son. Then she searched the ground floor, the first story, the second, and the attic--all in vain. Finally, she climbed to the trap door in the roof, pushed it open, and cried: "John Henry, are you out there?" An answer came clearly: "No, mother. Have you looked in the cellar?" AMNESTY The nurse at the front regarded the wounded soldier with a puzzled frown. "Your face is perfectly familiar to me," she said, musingly. "But I can't quite place you somehow." "Let bygones be bygones, mum," the soldier said weakly. "Yes, mum, I was a policeman." ANATOMY The little boy, sent to the butcher shop, delivered himself of his message in these words: "Ma says to send her another ox-tail, please, an' ma says the last one was very nice, an' ma says she wants another off the same ox!" APPEARANCE Little Willie came home in a sad state. He had a black eye and numerous
" And now.scratches and contusions. "Say." "Oh. at last. ma." APPETITE The young man applied to the manager of the entertainment museum for employment as a freak. the egg king. and one dozen goose eggs. the young man showed signs of doubt. ." "All right. two dozen duck eggs. and his clothes were a sight." "And do you think you can do it?" "I know I can. and the following dialogue occurred: "Who are you?" "I am Enoch. There were tears in her eyes as she addressed him rebukingly: "Oh. Willie! How often have I told you not to play with that naughty Peck boy!" Little Willie regarded his mother with an expression of deepest disgust." he objected." "On holidays we usually give a performance every hour. I understand that. and said: "May I have the pleasure of this dance?" Two wallflowers answered as with one voice: "With pleasure." "Do you know our program?" "What is it?" "We give four shows every day. at a single setting. "do I look as if I had been playing with anybody?" APPEARANCE The cross-eyed man at the ball bowed with courtly grace. Willie. yes. His mother was horrified at the spectacle presented by her darling." "What is your specialty?" "I eat three dozen hen's eggs." "On Saturdays we give six shows.
" the old salt confided to the inquisitive lady. Finally." ." * * * It was shortly after Thanksgiving Day that someone asked the little boy to define the word appetite. and remarked: "I see you are an admirer of Wordsworth. ma'am." "What?" "No matter what the rush of business is in the show. and a shark he come along and grabbed me by the leg. "Why. A friend regarded the picture with some surprise. I must have one thing understood before I'd be willing to sign a contract." was the answer." The actor regarded the photograph with a new interest. "That's Wordsworth. that's his picture. Webster wearied of her hospitable chatter. "I fell over the side of the ship. "Is that old file a poet?" he exclaimed in astonishment." "Merciful providence!" his hearer gasped. His reply was prompt and enthusiastic: "When you're eating you're 'appy. that he was not making out a meal. that he had no appetite. and addressed her in his most ponderous senatorial manner: "Madam. permit me to assure you that I sometimes eat more than at other times. as the friend pointed." ARGUMENT "Yes. but never less. ma'am." "Who's Wordsworth?" demanded the actor."In that case. o' course. I never argues with sharks. the poet. "I got him for a study in wrinkles. and when you get through you're tight--that's appetite!" APPRECIATION The distinguished actor had a large photograph of Wordsworth prominently displayed in his dressing-room." * * * Daniel Webster was the guest at dinner of a solicitous hostess who insisted rather annoyingly that he was eating nothing at all. you've got to give me time to go to the hotel to eat my regular meals. "And what did you do?" "Let 'im 'ave the leg.
The dealer quoted the price as $5. after their return from abroad. most interesting indeed. The name of the statue was Posish'--and it was some posish. we found the picture most interesting. really--he's so musical you know. mostly _Aida_. "How much is that?" he demanded. does your husband snore?" "Oh. "Holy pig's feet!" the magnate spluttered.ART An American tourist and his wife. I can buy live hogs and----" His wife nudged him in the ribs. so up and coming." "What?" "Yes. you see. he only snores operatic bits. The wife also waxed enthusiastic. at which she had been present. "those foreigners don't know how to spell. "And how they did applaud when you broke that record!" Her little brother. sniffed indignantly.000. But. "And the way she stood. were telling of the wonders seen by them at the Louvre in Paris. and interjected a remark: "Yes. in connection with the eating of the forbidden fruit. we know the anecdote." * * * * * The packer from Chicago admired a picture by Rosa Bonheur." ATHLETICS The sister spoke admiringly to the collegian who was calling on her after field day. who overheard. "Pa didn't applaud me for the one I broke. his voice is baritone. indeed--so delightfully. was grand." ." * * * The Yankee tourist described glowingly the statue of a beautiful woman which he had seen in an art museum abroad. with a tone of disgust. believe me! and the dumb fools spelt it--'Psyche!'" * "Tell me." he complained. The husband mentioned with enthusiasm a picture which represented Adam and Eve and the serpent in the Garden of Eden. and whispered: "Don't talk shop. "He licked me. because. yes. "For that money." he added.
" * * * The teacher had explained to the class that the Indian women are called squaws. stared in fascinated horror at the ugliest infant he had ever seen. I congratulate you on your brave display of heroic magnanimity. "Thank God!" exclaimed the Englishman." BALDNESS . called excitedly: "Please. who was not literary. "to plunge into the water in that way at the risk of your life to save the boy. "Rubber!" she piped wrathfully. There he stood the victim on his head to let the water drain out. But Ah jess had to git dat boy out de water." BABIES The visiting Englishman. A moment later. Then she asked what name was given to the children? "Porpoises. and bored one another and more especially their host. a splash was heard. jumped in after the lad. he excused himself from the table with a vague murmur about opening a window. The old darky. Ah doan know nuffin' 'bout magn'imity. then excited her indignation. He had de bait in his pocket." the gentleman declared rather rhetorically. To wake himself up. with an eyeglass screwed to his eye." came one eager answer. "I fancied it might be real." The old colored man answered with an amiable grin: "All right. teacher. and it was at this moment that the gentleman arrived on the scene with profuse expressions of admiration for the prompt rescue. and went out into the hall. He shook the fellow.AUTHORS A woman lion-hunter entertained a dinner party of distinguished authors. These discoursed largely during the meal. they're squabs!" BAIT A gentleman strolling alongside a canal observed an old negro and a colored boy fishing. At last. his fixed gaze attracted the mother's attention. boss. He found the footman sound asleep in a chair. however. and exclaimed angrily: "Wake up! You've been listening at the keyhole. and succeeded in getting him safely to the bank. "It was noble of you. which was in its mother's arms opposite him in the street car. The boy had fallen into the water. But a little girl whose father bred pigeons.
suh. An' a man says to me. "Won't you give me something to keep it in?" he begged. at half-pas' ten in de mawnin'. An'. So she offered explanation in the words: "Nozzle come off--nozzle come off!" The clergyman. But dey done has 'Quiry meetin's. Very fine church. 'Why don't you jine de Baptis'? De Baptis'. and continued the rite: "Nozzlecomeoff Smithers. suh. dey all look. he encountered his former pastor. "Take this." BAPTISTS The old colored man left the Methodist Church and joined the Baptist. but I hain't learned. an' I'se 'shamed. I was 'Piscopal. who inquired the reason for his change of sect. Soon afterward." the doctor said kindly. and he handed the patient a pill box. but she was compelled to hand over the child in its mussed garments to the clergyman at the font. "What name?" the clergyman whispered. the baby somehow loosened the stopper of his bottle." .A patient complained to the doctor that his hair was coming out. repeated his whisper: "What name?" "Nozzle come off--nozzle come off!" The woman insisted. The clergyman gave it up. The agitated mother failed to understand. The old man explained fully. BAPTISM On the way to the baptism." * * * The aged negro clergyman announced solemnly from the pulpit: "Next Sabbath. us cullud folkses can't bear too much 'quirin' into. Dis baptism will be of two adults an' six adulteresses. yes. dar will be a baptism in dis chu'ch. puzzled. The mother was greatly shamed. and thought that he complained of the baby's condition. almost in tears. I baptize thee in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. it's jest _dip_ an' be done wid it! 'An' so I jined. "Fust off. an' they done say the service so fast. I nebber could keep up. with the result that the milk made a frightful mess over the christening robe. an' when I come out behin'. So I jined the Methodis'.
" The old mountaineer regarded the tourist with a disapproving stare." BATTLE _Teacher:_ "In which of his battles was King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden slain?" _Pupil:_ "I'm pretty sure it was the last one. let 'im finish me fust off. "would like to hear about some of the narrer escapes you've had from bears. The bear halted a rod away. except one little boy." he said aloud. nevertheless. All the pupils were busy during the allotted time. But. an' if you're on 'is side. that the bear was gaining rapidly. As he came into a small clearing. If fore . an' you'll see the darndest bear fight you ever hearn tell on!" * * * The guide introduced a tourist in the Rocky Mountains to an old hunter who was reputed to have slain some hundreds of bears." he said. though not usually given to praying. the letter was as follows: "Sir: Will you please for the future give my boy some eesier somes to do at nites. "O God. When he had thrown away everything he carried." BEER The father of a school boy in New York City wrote to the boy's teacher a letter of complaint. he faced about with his back to a stump. with his eyes on the bear. and wrote never a word." the guide explained to the hunter. Possibly he welcomed the advent of prohibition--possibly not! Anyhow. if you're nootral. and sat on its haunches. now improved the interval to offer a petition. surveying its victim gloatingly. The teacher gave him an additional five minutes. "if there's been any narrer escapes. let my knife git 'im quick in 'is vitals. "if you're on my side.BASEBALL The teacher directed the class to write a brief account of a baseball game. The fifth minute had almost elapsed when the youngster awoke to life. calling them off one by one. and scrawled a sentence. "Young man. "This feller. and got out and opened his clasp-knife. This is what he brought home to me three nites ago. and found. the bears had 'em. The trapper. he determined to make a stand." BEARS The old trapper was chased by a grizzly. O God. who sat motionless. you jist sit thar on that stump. It ran thus: "Rain--no game.
and afterward went racing wildly along the street.--Please let the next one be water as I am not able to buy any more bere. So. and there was nineteen. and my boy cried and said he wouldn't go back to school without doing it. the mistress inquired: . naturally enough. and then we went and borrowed a lot of wine and brandy bottles. So. be careful. beside a few we had by us. one day. I had to go and buy a nine gallin' keg of bere. P. Well we emptied the keg into the bottles. "Light or dark?" he asked mechanically." The driver yelled in reply. BEGGARS The cultured maid servant announced to her mistress. No sooner was the door closed than the car leaped forward violently. and shouted at the chauffeur: "Please. we tried and could make nothing of it all. But a year passed and nothing was heard of the nuptials. The passenger." * * * The new soda clerk was a mystery. and my boy put that down for an answer. was terrified. there's a mendicant at the door. It's the first time I ever drove one!" BETROTHAL The cook. Nora. had announced her engagement to a frequenter at the kitchen. ma'am. This is the first time I ever rode in a taxi. narrowly missing collision with innumerable things. named Mike. I don't know whether it is rite or not. ma'am. how many pint and half bottles will nine gallins fill? Well. without turning his head: "That's all right. She thrust her head through the open window of the door. as we spilt some in doing it. sir! I'm nervous." BEGINNERS A woman visitor to the city entered a taxicab.gallins of bere will fill thirty to pint bottles. which I could ill afford to do. S. until he himself revealed his shameful past quite unconsciously by the question he put to the girl who had just asked for an egg-shake. wife of the profiteer: "If you please." The mistress sniffed contemptuously: "Tell 'im there's nothin' to mend.
" * * * The delinquent laggard swain had been telling of his ability as a presiding officer. and bobbed its head toward her for more. I'll be thinkin'. mum. "O-o-o-h!" the little girl cried. "Of course. As wrote from the penitentiary to * * unlucky. and so he got married three convicted and sentenced for four years. as her eyes rounded. an' it's niver at all. The mother read the placard. what is the trouble?" The reply was explicit: "'Tis this. mamma?" the child asked. it recognized me!" BLESSING . * The man was weak and naturally times inside of a year. dearest. the expiration of his term grew near." the girl confessed shyly. "What kind of a bird is it."When are you to be married. which gobbled them greedily. "Go ahead. I won't marry Mike when he's drunk. "Really? Why. Nora?" "Indade. The girl questioned him: "What is the parliamentary phrase when you wish to call for a vote?" The answer was given with proud certainty: "Are you ready for the question?" "Yes." the cook answered sadly. an' he won't marry me when he's sober." BIGAMY What is the penalty for bigamy? Two mothers-in-law. mum. with the plaintive query: "Will it be safe for me to come out?" BIRTH The little girl in the zooelogical park tossed bits of a bun to the stork. He was He seemed greatly relieved. he his lawyer. and answered that it was a stork.
" A month later. and thrust his hand into his pocket protectingly." BLINDNESS The sympathetic and inquisitive old lady at the seashore was delighted and thrilled by an old sailor's narrative of how he was washed overboard during a gale and was only rescued after having sunk for the third time." "I presoom as how it did. "But bein' as I had my eyes shut." she commented brightly. of course. the box disappeared." he explained. your whole past life passed before your eyes. was led to express his appreciation of a kind Providence by which a fish while laying a million eggs to a hen's one. "I collected enough." BONE OF CONTENTION The crowd in the car was packed suffocatingly close. "Thief yourself!" snorted the timid passenger. the tall man next the two disputants spoke sharply: "I want to get off here. The timid passenger thought of pickpockets. the shopkeeper chuckled. "And. "Leggo!" "Scoundrel!" shouted the fat man. He was startled to encounter the fist of a fat fellow-passenger. does so in a perfectly quiet and ladylike manner. BLIND A shopkeeper with no conscience put by his door a box with a slit in the cover and a label reading." the sailor agreed. "than to scratch your head." . mum. I missed it. "Help! Stop thief!" the little fellow spluttered. "Ye should have more sinse." BLOCKHEAD The recruit complained to the sergeant that he'd got a splinter in his finger. "after you sank the third time." was the harsh comment. As the car halted. "There's the new blind. and pointed to the window.The philosopher. "I caught you that time!" the fat man hissed. on being interrupted in his thoughts by the violent cackling of a hen that had just laid an egg. "For the Blind. trying to wrench his hand from the other's clasp. When some one inquired concerning it. if you dubs will be good enough to take your hands out of my pocket.
after ten minutes more of the sermon. and was going to contribute fifty dollars. suh!" snapped the Colonel. The team was recently challenged by a rival club. but showed no sign of wishing to take part in it. an old negro was deeply interested in the conflict. BREVITY The best illustration of the value of brief speech reckoned in dollars was given by Mark Twain. At the end of an hour of oratory when the plate was passed. The old negro chuckled as he said: "Did you ever see de bone fight?" "Well!--no!" "Dat's all! I'se de bone. sir?" the waiter inquired doubtfully. His story was that when he had listened for five minutes to the preacher telling of the heathen. in the days before prohibition. he reduced the amount of his prospective contribution to twenty-five dollars.* * * During the Civil War. he stole two dollars." "An' what is that." "But why do you order a bulldog?" asked the puzzled waiter. he cut the sum to five dollars. Why don't you pitch in and fight yourself?" "Has you-all ever seen two dogs fightin' over a bone?" the negro demanded. The pastor gave a special contribution of five dollars to . BRIBERY A thriving baseball club is one of the features of a boy's organization connected with a prominent church. A white man questioned him one day: "The men of the North and South are killing one another on your account. he wept. after half an hour more of eloquence. a bulldog and a quart of Bourbon whiskey. directed the colored waiter at his table in the hotel: "You-all kin bring me a Kentucky breakfast. The Colonel explained: "Bring me a big steak. of course." was the answer. "To eat the steak." BREAKFAST The Southern Colonel at Saratoga Springs. "Many times.
but failed in the effort. or gloves. or balls." came the explanation. with a single line: "Guess who sent them. and at last called the conductor as referee. still trying to guess the identity of the unknown host." the other announced. One morning they received in the mail two tickets for a popular show in the city. "Well." The two glared at each other." The pair had much amusement in trying to identify the donor. That will kill one. or anything that we thought might help to win the game." "If the window is shut. open the window. conductor. and will probably die." BRUTALITY Two ladies in a car disputed concerning the window. "I look a perfect fright. or anything else that might help to win the game. eager for praise. they found the house stripped of every article of value. Then we can have peace. you see. "I don't see any new bats.the captain. gloves. "I shall certainly suffocate. "If this window is open. The conductor was at a loss. "But I gave you five dollars to buy them. so we gave it to the umpire. "you told us to spend it for bats. balls. with the direction that the money should be used to buy bats." the captain admitted." the pastor exclaimed. And on the bare table in the dining-room was a piece of paper on which was written in the same hand as the enclosure with the tickets: "Now you know!" CANDOR Jeanette was wearing a new frock when her dearest friend called. shut it. On their return home late at night. but he welcomed the words of a man with a red nose who sat near. That will kill the other." she remarked. These were: "First." BURGLARY A young couple that had received many valuable wedding presents established their home in a suburb. the pastor was somewhat surprised to observe nothing new in the club's paraphernalia. or gloves." he said. . "I shall catch cold. He called the captain to him. Next. "We haven't anything like that. and had a delightful time. On the day of the game. They duly attended the theatre. or balls." one declared.
you horrid thing!" Jeanette gasped. "Jim Slocum come along with a six of hearts. "'I have the honor of addressing the celebrated Rebel spy. The curious old gentleman gazed first at the lad and then at the can. you certainly do. as she retrieved the piece of silver. found lying there one of the solid silver teaspoons. an' jist nacherly took thet thar jug o' yourn. "I'm foolin' this bunch by lettin' 'em climb the telegraph pole. there is a notable description of calmness in most trying circumstances." the boy continued proudly." CATERPILLARS The small boy sat at the foot of a telegraph pole. and answered absent-mindedly: "Yes. "In a moment I was perfectly calm. with a tin can in his hands." CARELESSNESS The housemaid. "Caterpillars!" he ejaculated. the jug was gone. "I'll never--never speak to you again!" CALMNESS In Bret Harte's _Mary McGillup_. "Simple enough. Miss McGillup?'" asked the vandal officer. With the exception of slightly expectorating twice in the face of the minion I did not betray my agitation." CARDS A Tennessee farmer went to town and bought a gallon jug of whiskey. "Yes?" "And so." the boy explained.The dearest friend was thinking of her own affairs. and tagged it with a five of hearts from the deck in his pocket. He demanded an explanation from the grocer." was the reply. "Some one of the company had a hole in his pocket. tidying the stairs the morning after a reception." "Oh." . He left it in the grocery store. "My goodness gracious!" she exclaimed. "What are you doing with them?" "They climb trees and eat the leaves. on which he wrote his name. When he returned two hours later. much perplexed.
Clarence!" she cried. and at the teacher's nod spoke timidly. of his Sunday School. it had been the wailing of the outraged beast that had caused the mother to look out. and was swinging it to and fro with every evidence of glee. "Haw-haw! Your pa ain't no good. observed to her horror that the erstwhile virtuous Clarence had the family cat by the tail. could not . on looking out of the window. aged eight. teacher--whiskers!" But another objector laughed scornfully. In fact. lacking souls. was a member of the Band of Mercy. One pupil raised an eager hand: "I know. The badge was a small star. "Haw-haw! My papa has whiskers!" The suggester of whiskers defended her idea by declaring: "My papa ain't got whiskers. A little girl raised her hand. "Why. He displayed eagerness in the work. aghast. "What are you doing to that poor cat? And you a member of the Band of Mercy!" Little Clarence released the cat." * * * The teacher put a question to the class: "What does a cat have that no other animal has?" A number cried in unison: "Fur!" But an objector raised the point that bears and skunks have fur. and grew somewhat unpopular with the other boys and girls by reason of his many rebukes for their harsh treatment of animals. My pa says----" The teacher rapped for order. and repeated her question. "Kittens!" * * * The little girl returned from church deeply musing on the sermon." "'Cause he can't!" the objector sneered. and Clarence wore this with as much pride as ever a policeman had in his shield. but he showed no shame as he explained: "I was--but I lost my star. which was a miniature society for the prevention of cruelty to animals. But one morning his mother. in which the preacher had declared that animals.CATS Clarence.
already on his knees. mamma. "Which one. she presented a problem to the family at the dinner table. when she asked earnestly: "If cats don't go to heaven. Then a heavy bass voice boomed out of the darkness: "Please. "A Sister of Charity. except for the startled clucking of the fowls. dey ain't nobody here 'cept jes' us chickens!" CHRISTIANITY A shipwrecked traveler was washed up on a small island. He suggested to the Christmas present the choice between a ton of coal and a jug whiskey. he made his way to the door. "Faith or Hope?" CHICKEN-STEALING The Southern planter heard a commotion in his poultry house late at night. "They are Christians!" CHRISTMAS A political colored man darky for a of the best boss wished to show his appreciation of the services of a who possessed considerable influence. and explored with the utmost stealth. raised his hands in devout thanksgiving. He was terrified at thought of cannibals. But as he came close. a voice rang out sharply: "Why in hell did you play that card?" The castaway." the boy persisted. The colored man spoke to the point: "Ah burns wood. As the result of her meditation. With shot gun in hand. in apprehension that it might be from the campfire of savages." was the answer. he crawled toward it fearfully. where do the angels get the strings for their harps?" CHARITY "Oh. Discovering a thin wisp of smoke above the scrub. you ornery thief!" There was silence for a few seconds.go to heaven." questioned the child." * * * . "who's that?" He pointed to a nun who was passing. flung it open and curtly ordered: "Come out of there. Colonel. "Thank God!" he exclaimed brokenly.
"Dat ain't no church for me. When he saw that it was not yet half filled." "And were you particular to wash behind your ears?" "On her side I did. He was scrupulous in his obedience. and said: "Please. aged six. She answered that she hadn't any. "Have you washed your hands very carefully?" "Yes. CHURCH The young members of the family had been taught to be punctilious in contributing to the collection at church. I'll get under the seat. a Ford. he withdrew to the roof. But James was equal to the emergency: "Here. may I sit on my pants?" * * * The mother catechised her young son just before the hour for the arrival of the music teacher. when the boxes were being passed. and his mother cautioned him strictly against soiling it. a fur dolman." . "Where is your money?" he whispered. "That'll pay for you." "And have you washed your face thoroughly?" "Yes. plumped down on the snow. take mine. Someone asked him afterward how he had enjoyed the experience. mother. James. ran his eye over those in the pew. * * * The old negro attended a service in the Episcopal Church for the first time in his life. and wept bitterly. shohly not much." he directed. and a few like knick-knacks in the Chicago girl's stocking. but at last he approached her timidly." CLEANLINESS The little boy was clad in an immaculate white suit for the lawn party." Which he did. mother. "Not much. No' suh! Dey wastes too much time readin' the minutes ob the previous meetin'. shaking his head. mother." he declared. and noticed that a guest of his sister had no coin in her hand. mother. One Sunday morning.Santa Claus inserted an upright piano.
as she reposed blissfully in his arms. Moses began to expostulate in a loud voice." COMPLIMENTS "Would you like a lock of my hair?" asked the gallant old bachelor of the spinster who had been a belle a few decades past." he replied gently." The prince answered coldly: . I think it's pretty bad. "Oh. "What is that to you?" she demanded. as well as me?" The young lady assumed an air of disdain. but Isaac hushed him with a whisper: "'Sh! I haf the spoons in my pocket. and were pained seriously by the amount of the check. considering that your teeth are porcelain. "Why don't you offer me the whole wig?" the maiden lady gibed. The bachelor retorted with icy disdain: "You are very biting. "If it's so." * * * The young man. Ed. who had become engaged to the pretty girl. I expect she danced it with somebody rather nice. My sister was raving about it. received information that led him to question her: "Is it true that since you came up here you've got engaged to Billy. a lady at a court ball was intensely gratified when a prince selected her as a partner. George and Harry. "your highness does me too great honor." COMPENSATION Isaac and Moses dined in a restaurant that was new to them." * * * In former times. remarked with the best of intentions. we fellows will all chip in together to buy an engagement ring. "Just this. madam. dancing with the girl to whom he had just been introduced. with a titter. when royalties were more important." she gushed. She was almost overwhelmed with pride when he danced a second measure with her.COMMUNITY The young man at the summer resort. and you have no objection. but rather unfortunately: "That's the new waltz.
"Yes. to catch the last faintly whispered words. She gave directions to her young son to answer the bell. She pressed her hands to her breast. she should take her feet along. she crouched behind a clothes-horse hung with drying garments. that I--loved her--her alone--always... The utterance came with pitiful feebleness. and said solemnly to her sister. just tell your mother I called. Since the single ground floor room of the cottage offered no better hiding place against observation from the door. two years older: "When you hear something wite here. But the old man was hard-headed ." the husband remarked in a tone that was far from humble. madam. When the boy had opened the door to the minister. my physician has directed me to perspire." CONVERSION A zealous church member in a Kentucky village made an earnest effort to convert a particularly vicious old mountaineer named Jim." the wife snapped. "and in your opinion your faults are better than other folks' virtues. and addressed the boy thus: "Well. my lad." CONSTANCY His companion bent over the dying man."But no. who was locally notorious for his godlessness." CONCEIT "I suppose I must admit that I do have my faults. Tell her--I died--with her name--on my lips." CONCEALMENT The widow was deep in suds over the family wash. when she saw her pastor coming up the path to the door. Go to Fannie. yet with sufficient clearness: "I am dying--yes. And Jennie--tell Jennie--the same thing. "That's just wind on your tummie." CONSCIENCE The child had been greatly impressed by her first experience in Sunday school." the sister jeered." "It's no such thing. And you might say to her that the next time she goes down the street. it is conscience whispering to you. Merely. and had duly delivered the message concerning his mother's absence. the reverend gentleman cast a sharp look toward the screen of drying clothes.. and to tell the clergyman that his mother had just gone down the street on an errand.
he remarked admiringly: "Darn'd curi's fish. sir--the men sitting behind you on the benches. He crowded in behind the largest lion and peered over its shoulder fearfully at his wife. so that he resisted the pious efforts in his behalf. "Air ye aimin' to tell me the Lord died to save me." COURTESY The witness was obviously a rustic and quite new to the ways of a court-room. I'll eat the wood. shook her umbrella furiously.and stubborn." the wife announced. on the other side of the bars. when He ain't never seed me. The trainer had just opened the door of the lions' cage. with the wife in pursuit. ma?" "That ain't a fish. ner knowed me?" "Jim. "That's a rep-tile. "if it's all the same to you. "Coward!" she shouted. "Jim. So. When they halted before the hippopotamus cage. The old man dodged and ran." he said respectfully to the wondering woman." It was thus that the argument began." the exhorter questioned sadly at last. "Coward!" CURIOSITY . but presently he reappeared at the back door of the house with the piece of pie still intact save for one mouthful bitten from the end." the missionary explained with fervor. bowed clumsily and said: "Good-morning. The tramp retired to the woodshed." COWARDICE The old farmer and his wife visited the menagerie. who. the judge directed him: "Speak to the jury. "it was a darn sight easier for the Lord to die fer ye jest because He never seed ye than if He knowed ye as well as we-alls do!" COOKERY The housewife gave the tramp a large piece of pie on condition that he should saw some wood. "Madam. firmly rooted in his evil courses. "ain't you teched by the story of the Lord what died to save yer soul?" "Humph!" Jim retorted contemptuously. ain't it. and saw the pie. gentlemen. It progressed to a point of such violence that the old lady began belaboring the husband with her umbrella." The witness turned. and the farmer popped in.
"But how ever did you come to do it?" "I was pounding it with father's watch?" DANGER One foot in the grave. dear. While the dead colonel was awaiting burial. it shot forward and nipped his finger. ma'am. She explained that she wished to attend the funeral of her fiance. an amiable young man . "Oh. Jenny.The colored man." "Never mind. "Nothin'--jest nothin' a tall. and sucked it. saw a turtle for the first time. "See the undertaker." DEAFNESS In the smoking-room of a theatre. a colored maid asked her mistress for permission to be absent on the coming Friday. ma'am. "I broke a tile in the hearth. "What's the matter?" the fishmonger asked with a grin. and some were indecently impatient. asking: "Would you object to my taking the place of the colonel?" "Not at all. and the other slipping. With a howl of pain he stuck his finger in his mouth." the girl replied." the colored man answered thickly. mama. one aspirant buttonholed the governor. "Ah was only wonderin' whether Ah had been bit or stung." DAMAGES The child came to his mother in tears. DEAD CERTAINTY On Tuesday. but as the investigator fumbled about the shell. The hanging ain't till Friday. there were many applicants for the post. The mistress gave the required permission sympathetically." the governor replied tartly. between the acts. and surveyed it with great interest. he ain't dead yet. no." DEAD MEN'S SHOES When a certain officer of the governor's staff died." she remarked. "Oh." he confessed. passing through the market." the mother consoled. The creature's head was withdrawn. "But you're not wearing mourning. "You see.
" exclaimed the young man. given with a grin. I kin always hear what I'm sayin' myself." * * * An excellent old gentleman grew hard of hearing." He chuckled contentedly. and if that's so. and declared tartly: "I never thought of that. I never will forgive him!" DEFINITION . I always take the surface cars." DEDICATION The visitor to the poet's wife expressed her surprise that the man of genius had failed to dedicate any one of his volumes to the said wife. He cupped a hand to his ear. ain't you?" At last the other understood. as he replied: "Me. another elderly citizen seated himself alongside." The answer. don't you think?" The old gentleman nodded approvingly. He listened intently--in vain. but there was only silence. as he rested on a park bench. was explicit and satisfying to the worried deaf man: "I hain't been talkin'--jest a-chewin'. he spoke his thought aloud: "It's come at last! I know you've been talking all this while. I'll look through all his books. but I don't. an' that's interestin' enough for me." Now. the young man shouted: "You're a little deaf. "Yes. but his ears caught no faintest sound of the other's voice. At last. in despair." was his comment. As soon as you are gone. which the others ain't. and was beset with apprehension lest he become totally deaf. the elderly person nodded agreeably. Whereupon. Again. said wife became flustered. but I haven't heard a single word. The apprehensive old gentleman saw that the new comer was talking rapidly." "I said the show was a good one. "I'm as deef as a post. One day. "Some folks thinks as that's a terrible affliction. sir!" he announced proudly. Them elevated an' subway stairs ketches my breath. "They jump about a good deal. "but they're on the ground.addressed an elderly gentleman who was seated beside him: "The show is very good. raising his voice.
too. you see. "And just think what they'd look like if ." "Mebbe so. an' ye'll hear some hollerin' as is hollerin'. but the De'il's in my breeches!" DIET The young lady. to the amazement of the congregation. warmed up. and was told that they subsisted almost entirely on fish. On the Sabbath as he warmed up to his preaching. A neighbor hurried up to tell of how her husband had become engaged in a saloon brawl and had been shot to death. as he retorted: "Oh." the host agreed. who was something of a food fadist. "My God!" he whispered. the artist." at his teacher's request. but. The girl protested: "But fish is a brain food. busily eating some pig's feet. Your head sets on one end and you set on the other. wrote this definition of the word "spine.The schoolboy." DEGREES IN DEGRADATION Phil May. brethren. with the result that presently the minister was leaping about like a jack in the box. "Be calm. and slapping his lower anatomy with great vigor. was on a visit to a coast fishing village. "To find you in such a place as this. "The word of God is in my mouth." Phil May smiled. when once down on his luck in Australia." DELAY A woman in the mountains of Tennessee was seated in the doorway of the cabin. and these folks are really the most unintelligent-looking that I ever saw." he shouted. took a job as waiter in a very low-class restaurant. I don't eat here. As the narrator paused. she spoke thickly from her crowded mouth: "Jest wait till I finish this-here pig's trotter. The widow continued munching on a pig's foot in silence while she listened to the harrowing news." DEVIL Some wasps built their nests during the week in a Scotch clergyman's best breeches. An acquaintance came into the place to dine. "A spine is a long. She questioned her host as to the general diet of the natives. the wasps. limber bone. after profound thought. and was aghast when he discovered the artist in his waiter.
they didn't eat fish!" DIGESTION In an English school, the examiner asked one of the children to name the products of the Indian Empire. The child was well prepared, but very nervous. "Please, sir," the answer ran, "India produces curries and pepper and rice and citron and chutney and--and----" There was a long pause. Then, as the first child remained silent, a little girl raised her hand. The examiner nodded. "Yes, you may name any other products of India." "Please, sir," the child announced proudly, "India-gestion." DIPLOMACY "Now, let me see," the impecunious man demanded as he buttonholed an acquaintance, "do I owe you anything?" "Not a penny, my dear sir," was the genial reply. "You are going about paying your little debts?" "No, I'm going about to see if I've overlooked anybody? Lend me ten till Saturday." * * *
Ted had a habit of dropping in at the house next door on baking day, for the woman of that house had a deft way in the making of cookies, and Ted had no hesitation in enjoying her hospitality, even to the extent of asking for cookies if they were not promptly forthcoming. When the boy's father learned of this, he gave Ted a lecture and a strict order never to ask for cookies at the neighbor's kitchen. So, when a few days later the father saw his son munching a cookie as he came away from the next house, he spoke sternly: "Have you been begging cookies again?" "Oh, no, I didn't beg any," Ted answered cheerfully. "I just said, this house smells as if it was full of cookies. But what's that to me?" * * *
Sometimes the use of a diplomatic method defeats its own purpose, as in the case of the old fellow who was enthusiastic in praise of the busy lawyer from whose office he had just come, after a purely social call. "That feller, for a busy man," he declared earnestly, "is one of the pleasantest chaps I ever did meet. Why, I dropped in on him jest to pass the time o' day this mornin', an' I hadn't been chattin' with 'im more'n five minutes before he'd told me three times to come and see 'im agin."
The lady of uncertain age simpered at the gentleman of about the same age who had offered her his seat in the car. "Why should you be so kind to me?" she gurgled. "My dear madam, because I myself have a mother and a wife and a daughter." * * *
Diplomacy is shown inversely by the remark of the professor to the lady in this story. At a reception the woman chatted for some time with the distinguished man of learning, and displayed such intelligence that one of the listeners complimented her. "Oh, really," she said with a smile, "I've just been concealing my ignorance." The professor spoke gallantly. "Not at all, not at all, my dear madam! Quite the contrary, I do assure you." DIRT We are more particular nowadays about cleanliness than were those of a past generation. Charles Lamb, during a whist game, remarked to his partner: "Martin, if dirt were trumps, what a hand you'd have!" * * *
The French aristocrats were not always conspicuously careful in their personal habits. A visitor to a Parisian _grande dame_ remarked to her hostess: "But how dirty your hands are." The great lady regarded her hands doubtfully, as she replied: "Oh, do you think so? Why, you ought to see my feet!" DISCIPLINE Jimmy found much to criticise in his small sister. He felt forced to remonstrate with his mother. "Don't you want Jenny to be a good wife like you when she grows up?" he demanded. His mother nodded assent.
"Then you better get busy, ma. You make me give into her all the time 'cause I'm bigger 'en she is. You're smaller 'en pa, but when he comes in, you bring him his slippers, and hand him the paper." Jimmie yanked his go-cart from baby Jennie, and disregarded her wail of anger as he continued: "Got to dis'pline her, or she'll make an awful wife!" DISCRETION The kindly and inquisitive old gentleman was interested in the messenger boy who sat on the steps of a house, and toyed delicately with a sandwich taken from its wrapper. With the top piece of bread carefully removed, the boy picked out and ate a few small pieces of the chicken. The puzzled observer questioned the lad: "Now, sonny, why don't you eat your sandwich right down, instead of fussing with it like that?" The answer was explicit: "Dasn't! 'Tain't mine." DIVORCE The court was listening to the testimony of the wife who sought a divorce. "Tell me explicitly," the judge directed the woman, "what fault you have to find with your husband." And the wife was explicit: "He is a liar, a brute, a thief and a brainless fool!" "Tut, tut!" the judge remonstrated. "I suspect you would find difficulty in proving all your assertions." "Prove it!" was the retort. "Why, everybody knows it." "If you knew it," his honor demanded sarcastically, "why did you marry him?" "I didn't know it before I married him." The husband interrupted angrily: "Yes, she did, too," he shouted. "She did so!" DOCTORS A victim of chronic bronchitis called on a well-known physician to be examined. The doctor, after careful questioning, assured the patient that the ailment would respond readily to treatment.
"You're so sure," the sufferer inquired, "I suppose you must have had a great deal of experience with this disease." The physician smiled wisely, and answered in a most confidential manner: "Why, my dear sir, I've had bronchitis myself for more than fifteen years." * * * showed no signs race. So, man. The new then asked:
A well-to-do colored man suffered a serious illness, and of improvement under treatment by a physician of his own presently, he dismissed this doctor and summoned a white physician made a careful examination of the patient, and "Did that other doctor take your temperature?" The sick man shook his head doubtfully.
"I dunno, suh," he declared, "I sartinly dunno. All I've missed so far is my watch." * * *
A member of the faculty in a London medical college was appointed an honorary physician to the king. He proudly wrote a notice, on the blackboard in his class-room: "Professor Jennings informs his students that he has been appointed honorary physician to His Majesty, King George." When he returned to the class-room in the afternoon he found written below his notice this line: "God save the King." * * *
The Chinaman expressed his gratitude to that mighty physician Sing Lee, as follows: "Me velly sick man. Me get Doctor Yuan Sin. Takee him medicine. Velly more sick. Me get Doctor Hang Shi. Takee him medicine. Velly bad--think me go die. Me callee Doctor Kai Kon. Him busy--no can come. Me get well." * * *
The instructor in the Medical College exhibited a diagram. "The subject here limps," he explained, "because one leg is shorter than the other." He addressed one of the students: "Now, Mr. Snead, what would you do in such a case?" Young Snead pondered earnestly and replied with conviction: "I fancy, sir, that I should limp, too."
out walking with her pet Pomeranian. we are here taught the doctrine of human depravity. Whatever it is.--Mephibosheth was lame. strolled past. when elaborate doctrines were deemed more important by Christian clergymen than they are to-day. The tramp caught the dog by the nape of the neck and tossed it over the hedge. Also the doctrine of total depravity--he was lame on both his feet. for he did eat at the King's table. Jones' boy--he's sick. she mustn't do it. The little dog ran to the tramp. and offered as proof the hotel register.' Fifth. But his captor denounced him as a German. "Shall I throw the leetle dog a bit. and tried to muzzle the food. A lady. The tramp smiled expansively on the lady. munching at some scraps wrapped in a newspaper. remarking: . I don't know what's the matter with him. they were prone to apply every utterance of the Bible to the demonstration of their own particular tenets. Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem. So I must hurry." "Is it serious?" "Yes. The lady was gratified by this appearance of kindly interest in her pet. mum?" he asked. and murmured an assent. which he had brought along. but she has a book on what to do before the doctor comes. Gates. who declared indignantly that he was a well-known American citizen." DOGS The tramp was sitting with his back to a hedge by the wayside.' "My brethren.'" DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE During the worst of the spy-scare period in London a man was brought into the police station. He pointed to the signature of the accused. It read: "V. Fourth. and he was lame on both his feet. For example. one distinguished minister announced his text and introduced his sermon as follows: "'So. the doctrine of adoption--'he did eat at the King's table.* * * The physician turned from the telephone to his wife: "I must hurry to Mrs." DOCTRINE In a former generation. Also the doctrine of justification--for he dwelt in Jerusalem. the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints--for we read that 'he did eat at the King's table continually.
"I don't like it much. The master of the house. "is a knot my wife tied to make me remember an errand." was the answer. "must be the reason I'm so forgetful. "I'm drawing a picture of you. "I guess I'll put a tail on it." the dachshund answered. when everybody was starving. Clara shook her head in discouragement. I haf to lock up the blace. and put out de cat." The fox terrier wagged his stump of tail thoughtfully. "And what are you doing. and call it a dog. one aristocratic family had their pet dog served for dinner. I might throw him a bit more. and my vife vakes up and scolds. and vind up de clock. mum. "That. and den maybe I get myself to bed in time to get up again. "What's the big idea?" he inquired."And if he comes back. and spoke sadly: "How Fido would have enjoyed these bones!" * * * The young clergyman during a parochial call noticed that the little daughter of the hostess was busy with her slate while eying him closely from time to time." he remarked at last." * * * Many a great man has been given credit as originator of this cynical sentiment: "The more I see of men. Ven you go your bed in. The clerical visitor sat very still to facilitate the work of the artist." she confessed. Clara?" he asked. and den de baby vakes and cries and I haf to valk him de house around. But. with his most engaging smile. ven I go de bed in. when the meal was ended. presently. but I vish I vas you. the more I respect dogs. you shust turn round dree times and lie down." * * * The meditative Hollander delivered a monologue to his dog: "You vas only a dog. ." * * * During the siege of Paris in the Franco-German war. and undress myself. "That. surveyed the platter through tear-dimmed eyes." * * * The fox terrier regarded with curious interest the knot tied in the tail of the dachshund.
indeed. and inquired as to the breed. Lucy?" the lady asked. "That is good. ma'am." * * * The newly married pair quarreled seriously. You be lays round all day and haf blenty of fun. you vas dead. ven I die. a lady inquired of her colored washerwoman: "Lucy." * * * . and you vas up." "What caused you to stop quarreling. "Here. dig your neck a little. Bernard. and counted it in her turn."Ven you get up you shust stretch yourself. Then she faced her husband scornfully: "But that isn't enough for a return ticket. I haf to vork all day and have blenty of drubble. scrap some vit my vife. counting out some bills. do you and your husband quarrel now the same as you used to?" "No. but I dun hear my missis say he am a full-blood Sam Bernard. put on de kiddle. and such is obviously the case of the actor named in this story. A passer-by admired the animal. I'm sure you're very glad of it." was the reply. The colored maid of an actress took out for exercise her mistress's dog. so that the wife in a passion finally declared: "I'm going home to my mother!" The husband maintained his calm in the face of this calamity. I haf to go somewhere again. aren't you?" "Ah sho'ly is." he said. The explanation was simple and sufficient: "He died." The wife took it. a splendid St. Ven you die. and get myself breakfast. I haf to light de fire. and drew out his pocketbook." DOMESTIC QUARRELS After a trip abroad." * * * Some persons are born to have honor thrust upon them. The maid said: "I doan jes' zactly know mahself. "is the money for your railroad fare.
During a pause." . do you know what I think of a man who will go to sleep while his own wife is a-talkin' to him?" "Well. now." DRAMA The new play was a failure. a visitor found his bachelor friend glumly studying an evening waistcoat. I believe as how I do. Mother calls me her lamb. they do. after she and her husband had retired for the night. Martha. "Last night I dreamed that I went paddling--and I had!" DRESS "Oh. and asked: "Do you believe that dreams come true?" "Of course. and father calls me kid. Thus. one of the party turned to a little girl who had sat listening intently. A cynical critic as he rose from his aisle seat raised a restraining hand. When inquiry was made. but really. this explanation was forthcoming: "It's quite too soiled to wear. at the end of the second. an' git it off your mind. it's not dirty enough to go to the laundry. have you heard? Mrs. she thumped the sleeper into wakefulness. When she was interrupted by a snore from her spouse." DOUBT Small Jimmie discussed with his chief crony the minister's sermon which had dealt with the sheep and the goats. "Wait!" he commanded loudly. discoursed for a long time with much eloquence. I can't make up my mind just what I should do about it." he concluded. Blaunt died to-day while trying on a new dress. "I don't know which I am.The good wife." was the drowsily uttered response. most of the others started out. many left the theatre. and then remarked: "John. "But don't let that stop you. Go right ahead. "Me. "Women and children first!" DREAMS The group of dwellers at the seaside was discussing the subject of dreams and their significance. but it may degenerate into a vice. After the first act." the child replied firmly." * * * Ability to look on two sides of a question is usually a virtue.
When this had happened a half-dozen times. "If I'd known that. with the like result. and tried again." said the conductor again. running back. but very dignified. helped the unfortunate man to scramble to his feet. at last. and regarded it as intently as he could. He reeled back. He made a tour around the barrier four times. "I used to wear things of that sort until I married you. carefully holding to one rod until he had a firm grasp on the next. he halted and leaned despairingly against the rock to which he held. "Collision?" he demanded. The bibulous passenger was severely shaken. but somewhat dazed. I wouldn't have got off. Then. with little bits of ones. and called aloud for succor: "Hellup! hellup! Somebody let me out!" * * * The highly inebriated individual halted before a solitary tree."How sad! What was it trimmed with?" * * * The son of the house had been reading of an escaped lunatic. who had just paid a number of bills. On his homeward journey. As the car swung swiftly around a curve this riotous liver was jolted off." * * * The very convivial gentleman left his club happy. His attempt to pass between these resulted in a near-concussion of the brain. and so on and so on. with the result that he saw two trees. but presently sighted carefully." the mother spoke up." "I recall now. the unhappy man lifted up his voice and wept. but this particular passenger on the platform of the trolley car still wore a much crumpled evening suit. with silks and laces and feathers and jewelry. "No. The car stopped. and fell heavily on the cobble stones. and the conductor. The father. made tackingly. he ran against the vertical iron rods that formed a circle of protection for the trunk of a tree growing by the curb. "No." the conductor answered. waxed sarcastic: "With enormous straw hats." DRINK It was nine o'clock in the morning. "Well!" was the indignant rejoinder. "How do they catch lunatics?" he asked. . "Off the track?" was the second inquiry.
"I must have a pound of cheese. blast ye! if ye're prudent. His face was red. who indulged in sprees." Equipped with the whiskey. who were of very convivial habits. as any Southern gentleman should." . chanced to meet on the street at nine o'clock in the morning after an evening's revel together. was observed in his Sunday clothes throwing five bushels of corn on the ear into the pen where he kept half a dozen hogs. suh. When this had been provided: "Now give me a quart of whiskey. "Get to work. I got him so drunk one night it took three hotel porters to put me to bed. and he was heard to mutter: "Thar. "Hopelessly lost in an impenetrable forest!" * * * The proprietor of the general store at the cross-roads had his place overrun by rats. A disreputable-appearing person turned up one morning. also notorious for his bibulous habits. suh. and announced that he was a professional rat-killer. that orter last ye." the killer declared. and then the rat-catcher galloped up the cellar stairs and leaped into the store. suh?" The colonel left nothing doubtful in the nature of his reply: "Major."Lost--Lost!" he sobbed. how do you feel." * * * A farmer." An hour elapsed. The major addressed the colonel with decorous solemnity: "Colonel. "I feel like thunder. the eyes glaring. "I should say I do! Why. and the damage was such that he offered a hundred dollars reward to anyone who would rid him of the pests. "Know him!" was the reply. the professional spoke briskly: "Now show me the cellar." the store-keeper urged. and he shook his fists in defiance of the world at large." he declared tartly. at this hour of the morning!" * * * The old toper was asked if he had ever met a certain gentleman. as he jumped high in air and shouted: "Whoopee! I'm ready! bring on your rats!" * * * Two Southern gentlemen.
and thought. the horse stumbled and fell." "A mon offered me a dram. the gentleman asked the gamekeeper how he liked the cap. and she spoke with a purr that was catty: "You know. stood on its hind legs." * * * The old farmer was driving home from town. and I heard naething of it. and either could not. The friend exclaimed mournfully: "Oh. "I've heard of none. After some thought. it took a big drink. get to its feet again. my dear. Presently. and then retired into its hole to think. and squeaked: "Now. bristled its whiskers. Nor did it retreat to its hole. Instead. it climbed on a soap box. it issued and drew near the pool for the third time. When at the lodge the following year. but now. What a pity he sometimes indulges too much!" * * * In the days before prohibition. "I've nae worn it since the accident. and outside the door he encountered a teetotaler friend. At last. of the sort having ear flaps. being thirsty. git up thar--or I'll drive smack over ye!" * * * Mrs. John. and took a second sip of the whiskey. Smith addressed her neighbor. it took a sip of the strange fluid. I am so sorry to see you come out of such a place as that!" . quite as purringly: "Oh." "What accident was that?" his employer demanded. The mouse had had no previous acquaintance with liquor. The old man shook his head dolefully. Now. In descending a hill. It then withdrew again to its hole. my husband is so indulgent!" And the other woman retorted.* * * A mouse chanced on a pool of whiskey that was the result of a raid by prohibition-enforcement agents. whose husband was notoriously brutal. everybody knows that. or would not. bring on your cat!" * * * The owner of a hunting lodge in Scotland presented his gamekeeper with a fur cap. it returned to the pool. after having imbibed rather freely. a bibulous person issued from a saloon in a state of melancholy intoxication. the farmer spoke savagely: "Dang yer hide.
"I almost died. the physician addressed the policeman who had made the arrest." she explained. * * * When the Kentucky colonel was in the North." was the serene reply. discoursed eloquently of conditions in his home state. while somewhat mellow. "This fellow is not suffering from the effects of alcohol. a body these days don't know what he dare eat or drink. "I don't reckon they're mo' than a dozen Bibles in the whole state. and delirium tremens." The policeman was greatly disturbed. The preparing of the soil for the crops is done by our . and made gallant inquiries. "but I have to stay aboard. After a short examination. some one asked him if the Kentuckians were in fact very bibulous." he declared huskily. And he added in a burst of confidence: "What with that. suh." DUTY The traveler was indignant at the slow speed of the train. He concluded in a burst of feeling: "In that smiling land. "I had ptomaine-poisoning. "I'll go right back!" And he did." the colonel declared." DRUGGED The police physician was called to examine an unconscious prisoner. suh.The bibulous one wept sympathetically. no gentleman is compelled to soil his hands with vulgar work." "And is it so?" the Irishman gushed. who had been arrested and brought to the station-house for drunkenness." EASY LIVING The Southerner in the North. He appealed to the conductor: "Can't you go any faster than this?" "Yes. ma'am. I drugged him all the way to the station. He has been drugged. and spoke falteringly: "I'm thinkin'. "No." * * * The Irish gentleman encountered the lady who had been ill. sor. ye're right. "Then.
" "Well." * * * . The other Japanese registered scorn." * * * Wife:--"Women are not extravagant. I open it wide. Then I wave my head." "Can you do plain cooking?" "Naw. "I was better taught. I make a fan last a lifetime. "Wasteful!" he ejaculated." EFFICIENCY In these days of difficulty in securing domestic servants. and hold it under my nose quite motionless. "what can you do?" "I milk reindeer.. who was a recent importation from Lapland." ECONOMY One Japanese bragged to another that he made a fan last twenty years by opening only a fourth section. And the selling is done by the sheriff." "Can you sew?" "Naw. suh. wash the dishes?" "Naw. mistresses will accept almost any sort of help." cried the woman in puzzled exasperation. and using this for five years.. A woman can dress smartly on a sum that would keep a man looking shabby." "Can you do general housework?" "Naw." "Make the beds. What you dress on keeps me looking shabby." Husband:--"That's right. A woman interrogated a husky girl in an employment office. and the reaping of the crops--all done by the niggers.niggers. then the next section. and the sowing of the crops.. and so on. but there are limits. The dialogue was as follows: "Can you do fancy cooking?" "Naw.
His hired man. for the wig persisted in slipping back and revealing a perfectly bald pate. was instructed. "But." "Very good. _senor_. "I've done the nastiest jobs. as he whispered solemnly: "I found a tack. and to return home on the same day." the hired man asserted. she returned with the glue-pot. To illustrate his point. "I can't understand." EGOTISM The pessimist spoke mournfully to his friend: . Presently. After a month. _senor_.The undertaker regarded the deceased in the coffin with severe disapproval. "you can understand the benefit the road will be to you. explained to one of the natives living alongside the right of way the advantages that would come from realization of the projected line. an' never kicked." was the answer. among other things. and regarded her with the gently sad smile to which undertakers are addicted." the farmer declared. He addressed the widow in that cheerfully melancholy tone which is characteristic of undertakers during their professional public performance. who was engaged on railroad construction in Central America." the native agreed courteously. "Have you any glue?" The widow wiped her eyes perfunctorily. "why you should want to leave. and said that she had." * * * An engineer. and he undertook the work carefully and systematically. "Then." said the engineer. _senor_. to write on each egg the date laid and the breed of the hen. surprised and pained. and the relic departed on her errand. But the undertaker shook his head. The undertaker nodded gloomily. he put the question: "How long does it take you to carry your produce to market by muleback?" "Three days. who had been with him for a number of years. You will be able to take your produce to market. the hired man resigned. what shall we do with the other two days?" EGGS The farmer decided to give special attention to the development of his poultry yard." "I'm through. "Shall I heat it?" she asked. But I draw the line on bein' secretary to a bunch o' hens.
pullin' carrots with its tail. a darky. "No." EPITAPH In an Irish cemetery stands a handsome monument with an inscription which runs thus: "This monument is erected to the memory of James O'Flinn. A householder called from his porch: "Sam. "Begorra. I have a job for you. boss--I done got a quarter. explained how it came about that he had been arrested for chicken-stealing: . "There was an inju-rubber bull around here. suh. "What about her father? Did he catch you?" "Just that!" quoth the bridegroom grimly. if you want to earn a quarter." EVIDENCE The prisoner. "Incidentally. and asked eagerly for details." "What's the matter now?" The pessimist answered dolefully: "Don't you see that it is raining?" ELEPHANT A circus man was scouring the countryside in search of an elephant that had escaped from the menagerie and wandered off. an old friend met the bridegroom. but his face was radiant. thank yoh all de same." ENOUGH The darky's clothes were in the last stages of dilapidation. and he whistled merrily as he slouched along the street." ELOPEMENT Some months after the elopement. Oi hev thot!" was the vigorous answer. who was accidentally shot by his brother as a mark of affection."It is only to me that such misfortunes happen. and he wore open work shoes." The tattered colored man grinned happily as he shook his head. He inquired of an Irishman working in a field to learn if the fellow had seen any strange animal thereabouts. I may add that the old boy is living with us still.
My women folks. The clergyman sought to evade the issue by suggesting to the man that he reflect more carefully on the matter. "I think my husband won't get home until daylight. beaming. A colored man took a fancy to the church.' An' so it was!" * * * "Shall I leave the hall light burning. to whom he called. and make it the subject of prayers for guidance. I was goin' past there in the evenin'. an' Ah tole was yourn. somewhat at a loss. sez I. An' He says: 'Ho. "an' de Lawd he done sent me an answer las' night. "Ah done prayed. and promptly told the minister that he wished to join." her mistress replied. 'Where there's smoke there must be fire. 'You can't dere. Dey had to put de feathers in der hats."I didn't hab no trouble wiv de constable ner nobody. he found that the ladder had been removed. I sez to myself. It would ab been all right if it hadn't been fer the women's love o' dress. sah. He done axed me what chu'ch Ah wanted to jine. "Did you hear that old man Jones's house burned down last night?" "I ain't a mite surprised." "And what was it?" queried the clergyman. dey wasn't satisfied jes' to eat mos' all o' them chickens. "But how'll I get down?" Pat demanded. dat chu'ch!' says he. the darky encountered the minister. He kissed me goodbye before he went. "What did the Lord say?" "Well. and gave me twenty dollars for a new hat. an' when I saw the smoke a-comin' out all round under the eaves. ma'am?" the servant asked. Him it git in chu'ch sah. an' parade 'em as circumstantial evidence. One of his fellow workmen on the pavement below. ho." * * * The smug satisfaction of the rustic in his clear perception and shrewd reasoning is illustrated by the dialogue between two farmers meeting on the road. But when he would have descended. . The following day." he declared. "No. Ah know you can't--'cause Ah been tryin' to git in dat fer ten years mahself an' Ah couldn't!'" EXPECTANCY An Irishman on a scaffolding four stories high heard the noon whistle." EXCLUSIVENESS One of the New York churches is notorious for its exclusiveness. explained that the foreman had carried off the ladder for another job.
"Will yez kitch me?" he demanded. suggested jumping as the only means. and he accepted the suggestion seriously. "Begorry. "Only now she knows. and crowed. He said: "Hit wouldn't be of no use." Mike replied sympathetically. "But it's true. She is an excellent cook. But the thief was not minded to explain. He regained consciousness after a short interval. She hurried back presently on hearing frantic squalling from baby. but I could not afford to make use of her services longer. Pat clapped his arms in imitation of a rooster. and feebly sat up on the pavement. on the pavement. so that he questioned the darky as to how he had managed to take those chickens and carry them off from right under the window of the owner's house. and the pain in bones sounded in his voice. an' I'll do that." Mike agreed. Pat's lunch was below." brother replied contentedly. He regarded Mike reproachfully. he was hungry. who was present. jedge." EXPERIENCE The baby pulled brother's hair until he yelled from the pain of it. and leaped. "For why did yez not kitch me?" he asked. she doesn't know how badly it hurts." EXPERTS There was a chicken-stealing case before the court. afterward expressed his surprise at the final clause." The husband. "Nothin' 'tall.Mike. to bolster up his courage. and that with a savage dog loose in the yard. But the circumstances of the case had provoked the curiosity of the judge." the wife answered. "I was waiting for yez to bounce!" EXPENSE ACCOUNT The woman wrote a reference for her discharged cook as follows: "Maggie Flynn has been employed by me for a month. "The dishes she smashed cost double her wages. The colored culprit pleaded guilty and was duly sentenced." Then she left the room. "Sure. "What in the world is the matter with her?" she questioned anxiously. The mother soothed the weeping boy: "Of course. to try to 'splain dis ting to .
the objectional skimpiness was corrected. the inventor made a success.000 additional.000. you better stick to de bench. FACTS The burly man spoke lucidly to his gangling adversary: "You're a nincompoop. The clerk exhibited one bag five inches square." FASHION After years of endeavor in poverty. But the lady surveyed the expensive bauble without enthusiasm. This was offered at a price of $9. At last she voiced her comment: "Rather pretty. at last. 'tain't fair twittin' on facts. and came running home with pockets bulging real money. "You were very naughty. mamma." the mother chided. the mother was displeased to find that little Emma. the thing looks skimpy--decidedly skimpy!" For $7. "I told you to be sure and take that pill." EXTRAVAGANCE A rich and listless lady patron examined the handbags in a leading jeweler's shop in New York City." EXPLICITNESS On her return home after an absence of a few hours. He joyously strewed thousand-dollar bills in his wife's lap. my dear." The other man protested.you-all. although she had been carefully directed to do so. jedge." was the sharp retort. Ef you was to try it you more'n like as not would git yer hide full o' shot an' git no chickens. who was ailing. with a whine in his voice: "Sech talk ain't nice--and." "I'll do nothing of the kind. "you didn't tell me where to take it to. Emma. Honestly. made of platinum and with one side almost covered with a setting of diamonds. She turned it from side to side and over and over." "But." the child pleaded in extenuation. had not taken her pill at the appointed time. but I don't like this side without diamonds. crying: "Now. nuther. you will be able to buy you some decent clothes. anyhow. regarding it with a critical eye and frowning disapprovingly. Ef you want to engage in any rascality. a liar and hoss-thief. whar you am familiar. "I'll get the same .
he up an' axed me agin. . An' now. An' it's like this. "Old Si Durfee wants me to be one of the pall-bearers once more at his wife's funeral." "But only one honest way. An' ye know. I'se de washerwoman's little girl." FIGHTING The boy hurried home to his father with an announcement: "Me and Joe Peck had a fight to-day. I'se Ophelia. and with much embarrassment." a listener declared. "Mr. the young farmer complained bitterly." * * * "The naked hills lie wanton to the breeze. she sent me to say. would you please to len' her a dime. She got to pay some bills. a feller can't be the hull time a-takin' favors. An' when Eliza died. "What wonder is it that the corn is shocked?" But not the modern woman! FAVORS At the village store. and what her mission: "Please. "Money! pooh! there are a million ways of making money. I snum." The little boy's face brightened." The father nodded gravely. it's the fourth time. Peck has already called to see me about it." * * * The successful financier snorted contemptuously. an' not payin' 'em back. an' mama. mum. An' then agin fer his second. she as was his third. "The fields are nude. Si had me fer pall-bearer when his first wife was buried. pop! I hope you made out 's well 's I did!" FINANCE A very black little girl made her way into the presence of the lady of the house. but very clearly. "Bare are the shivering limbs of shameless trees. the groves unfrocked. "Gee. explained who she was.kind the other women are wearing.
"No--to corner it. the third day." he explained." FINANCIERS "My pa. sir. and made a deposit of two hundred dollars. he's a financier. "is to find out what the people want." The colored waiter was so excited that he interrupted: "You say you go after hundred-pound fish in a little motor boat. "is to give it to them. "Just run out in a small motor boat. my confidence in the enterprise reached such a point that I put in fifty dollars of my own money. "My pa an' uncle Jack are in jail." * * * The eminent banker explained just how he started in business: "I had nothing to do." boasted one small boy to another. a man dropped in." FISHING The congressman from California was telling at dinner in the hotel of tuna fishing." The financier shook his head contemptuously." someone suggested. and put up a sign." the other sneered. "But. _Bank_."What way is that?" the financier demanded. suh?" The congressman nodded." was the answer. and I rented an empty store." the darky protested. "and anything less than a hundred pounds is poor sport. And so. "Naturally. "'Tain't much to brag of." "And the next thing. "The true secret of success. As soon as I opened for business. too. "ain't you scairt fer fear you'll ketch one?" FLATTERY . The next day another man dropped in and deposited three hundred dollars. you wouldn't know. * * * The eminent financier was discoursing." he said.
" FLIRTATION The gentleman at the party. and told him just what she thought. who had just paused beside him: "Women are fickle. At the statesman's order. The dead dog's mistress was deeply grieved. she paused for breath." The woman drew herself up haughtily. and mumbled thickly: . When. and more deeply angered. and the great man got out and hurried back to where a woman was standing by the remains. when the car struck and killed a dog that leaped in front of it. she turned on him wrathfully." "The flood?" The tone was polite. surveyed the statesman with supreme scorn. at last. in the drawing-room. she came to her mother with a radiant smile. saying: "Madam. "He's fine." the other man said. and hissed: "Sir. the Ark. As the statesman attempted to address her placatingly. "Awful rainy spell--like the flood. shook his head." "I have only just arrived. I shall be glad to replace your dog. "She is my wife. which was considerable and by no means agreeable. "_The_ flood--Noah. you flatter yourself!" FLEAS The debutante was alarmed over the prospect of being taken in to dinner by the distinguished statesman.An eminent statesman was being driven rapidly by his chauffeur. Mount Ararat. who was old enough to know better." she exclaimed." The other bit off half a slice of bread. the culprit tried again to soothe her. "Whatever can we talk about?" she demanded anxiously of her mother." FLOOD The breakfaster in the cheap restaurant tried to make conversation with the man beside him at the counter. turned to another guest. "We weren't half way through the soup before we were chatting cozily about the fleas in Italian hotels. the chauffeur stopped the car. See that pretty woman by the window? She was smiling at me flirtatiously a few minutes ago and now she looks cold as an iceberg. Afterward. but inquiring.
if they did not do so. but we do not look for anything of the sort in a serious romance of real life. they must surely die naturally. ventured a comment as the speaker paused: "But I thought those Esquimaux dogs were actually tireless. when. the fruit would fall of itself. and a bouquet of pink carnations. The first was the climbing of trees to shake down the fruit. and Mrs. who had followed the explorer's remarks carefully. "Where am I going to?" he cried anxiously. so thick that he could hardly see his hand before his face. when if they would only wait. ----. Then he heard footsteps approaching through the obscurity. and sighed with relief. if the dogs had not given out at a critical time. Nevertheless. He became seriously alarmed when he found himself in a slimy alley."Hain't read to-day's paper yit.Church. a very interesting wedding was solemnized. the women would surely run after them. A voice replied weirdly from the darkness beyond: "Into the river--I've just come out!" FOLLIES A wise old Quaker woman once said that men were guilty of three most astonishing follies. He explained that a point further north would have been reached." Such suggestion is all very well in a humorous ballad. Richard ----. on Monday last. The third was that they should run after women. FOOD The Arctic explorer at a reception on his return gave an informal talk concerning his experiences. the contracting parties being Mr." . A lady. The second was the going to war to kill one another." FOG The old gentleman was lost in a London fog. eldest son of Mr. when if they would but wait. a Welsh newspaper of recent date carried the following paragraph: "At ---." FLOWERS Gilbert wrote a couplet concerning-"An attachment _a la_ Plato For a bashful young potato.
" FOREHANDEDNESS The highly efficient housewife bragged that she always rose early. you! where are you going?" "Well. "bring me a pint of calf's milk every day. and had every bed in the house made before anybody else in the house was up. "will save my lugging the steps up here again to-morrow. the mistress preferred the west wall. whom he addressed good-naturedly: "Now. who was much troubled by the shiftlessness of his colored workers. and exhibited a string tied around a finger. and cleared his throat before answering." "Plank? What plank? Where's the plank?" the foreman demanded. if dat don't beat all." he elucidated." one of them answered. I think cow's milk is too strong for baby." FORGETFULNESS The foreman of a Southern mill." * * * The young mother asked the man who supplied her with milk if he kept any calves. and had a number of drinks together. FORESIGHT The master directed that the picture should be hung on the east wall. The one who lived in the suburbs became confidential. boss." he said to himself. "we is goin' to de mill wid dis-heah plank. suh. George! If we hain't gone an' clean forgitted dat plank!" * * * Two men met on the city street in the evening. "Then. "That. "Hi." she continued brightly. when he has come around to agreeing with her. The servant drove the nail where his master directed.The explorer hesitated. "in a--er--culinary sense. but when he was left alone in the room he drove a nail in the other wall. "I spoke. called sharply to two of the men slouching past him. The colored spokesman looked inquiringly and somewhat surprisedly at his own empty hands and those of his companion. and smiled pleasedly when he said that he did. .
" FRAUD The hired man on a New England farm went on his first trip to the city. The magnate inquired interestedly concerning the bride: "Is she tall or short. On the margin was jotted in pencil: "Send this guy the bed-bug letter. instead of sleeping in his berth. sir. But for the life of me I can't remember what the thing was I am to do. He returned wearing a scarf pin set with at least four carats bulk of ." the one asked. slender or plump?" The prospective bridegroom answered seriously: "Well. and to make sure I wouldn't forget. "There's something my wife told me to do. as he replied: "I didn't go home until the next night. that if I'd had the rollin' of her. And I don't dare to go home!" A few days later the two men met again. "Well. whom she addressed in a strenuous whisper: "There! I just knew we'd forget something." he explained. without fail. and directed that the candidates for baptism should now be presented. she tied that string around my finger. and then my wife told me what the string was for all right--she certainly did!" There was a note of pain in his voice. His mood changed for the worse. which was so courteous and logical that he was greatly soothed." FORM The traveler wrote an indignant letter to the officials of the railroad company. John. I sure would have given her three or four more passes. when he happened to glance at his own letter." * * * The clergyman drew near to the baptismal font."I don't dare to go home. which had been enclosed through error. I'm free to say. A woman in the congregation gave a gasp of dismay and turned to her husband. He received in reply a letter from the company. "did you finally remember what that string was to remind you of?" The other showed great gloom in his expression. Carnegie for a holiday in which to get married. this time in the afternoon. giving full details as to why he had sat up in the smoking-room all night. just because I was scared." * * * A worker in the steel mills applied direct to Mr. and fetch the baby. however. "The string was to remind me to be sure to come home early. you run right home as fast as you can.
" said the stranger genially. J'ai quitte ma train et maintenant je ne sais pas ou le trouver encore. The small son of the cabin regarded his operations with rounded eyes." FRIENDSHIP The kindly lady accosted the little boy on the beach. mispronouncing it with great emphasis." FRENCH An American tourist in France found that he had a two hours' wait for his train at a junction. nail-file and whiskbroom. tooth-brush. mister. and at last broke forth: "By cricky. He therefore addressed a passer-by in the best French he could recollect from his college days. and grinding his toes into the sand and looking very miserable and lonely indeed. "If it ain't. "I don't speak French. who stood with downcast head. The boy shook his head forlornly. and excited the envy of the other young men. He made use of his own comb and brush. He voiced his request for information as follows: "Pardonnez-moi.radiance. Est-ce que vous pouvez me montrer le route a la train?" "Let's look for it together. and set out to explore the neighborhood. either. His employer bluntly asked if it was a real diamond. The jewelry dazzled the rural belles. I wantta know! Be ye allus thet much trouble to yerself?" . "Haven't you anybody to play with?" she inquired sympathetically. because I know you so well. and could not find his way back to the station." FUSSINESS The traveler in the Blue Ridge Mountains made his toilet as best he could with the aid of the hand basin on its bench by the cabin door and the roller towel. The letter opened in this form: "Dear Friends: "I will not address you as ladies and gentlemen. as he explained: "I have one friend--but I hate him!" * * * The clergyman on his vacation wrote a long letter concerning his traveling experiences to be circulated among the members of the congregation. "I was skun out o' half a dollar. He discovered at last that he was lost." was the answer.
he would pass the night alone in the haunted house. no trace of him was found. by a printer's error in prefixing _un_ to an adverb. Naturally. With this understanding the boaster betook himself to the haunted house for the night. It was not. and Joab was the son of Zeruiah. an old and rather mushy description of a gentleman has been given a novel twist and a pithy point.GENDER It is quite possible to trap clergymen. and the required amount was raised. and declared that. The answer was explicit: "You've come down in Deacon Peck's north medder lot. what relation was Zeruiah to Joab?" Most persons give the answer that Zeruiah was the father of Joab. after many hours of thick weather. Careful search for three days failed to discover the missing negro. with the following question. But on the fourth day Sam entered the village street. GENTLEMAN There has been much controversy for years as to the proper definition of the much abused word "gentleman. David and Solomon having nothing whatever to do with the case. covered with mud and evidently worn with fatigue. Then it cleared and he was able to make a landing. to be delivered to the courageous Sam until his reappearance after the vigil. of course. he was anxious to know in what part of the world he had arrived. bragged of his bravery as too superior to be shaken by any ghosts. That is not the correct answer. . however. A contributor's letter to a metropolitan daily appeared as follows: "Sir--I can recall no better description of a gentleman than this-"'A gentleman is one who never gives offense unintentionally. But a new arrival in the community. And. because they are not always learned in the Old Testament. The trouble is that Zeruiah was a woman. had lost his bearings completely. as well as laymen. When a select committee sought for Sam next morning." Finally. for the small sum of two dollars cash in hand paid. "If David was the father of Solomon. named Sam. He put the question to the group of rustics that had promptly assembled. A score of other darkies contributed. necessarily.'" GEOGRAPHY The airman." GHOSTS There was a haunted house down South which was carefully avoided by all the superstitious negroes.
" the little boy replied." GOD'S WILL The clergyman was calling." His eyes fell on the clergyman." "What's his name?" asked the statesman hopefully." he confessed to the caddy. mama. "Oh." gasped the shocked mother. and it's deader 'n dead." "Well. sir." GOD The little boy was found by his mother with pencil and paper." "But. As she shrank in repugnance. We beat it and beat it and beat it. When asked what he was doing. it's dead all right. "when I get through they will. No one knows how God looks. "From what the boys were saying about another gentleman who plays here. and played as wretchedly as usual. when the youthful son and heir approached his mother proudly. No one has seen God. and he felt that something more was due to that reverend presence. and with considerable pride: "I'm drawing a picture of God. he answered promptly." ."Hi. So he continued in a tone of solemnity: "Yes. and exhibited a dead rat. we beat it and beat it until--until God called it home!" GOLF The eminent English Statesman Arbuthnot-Joyce plays golf so badly that he prefers a solitary round with only the caddy present. And the caddy replied: "Arbuthnot-Joyce. complacently. He had a new boy one day recently. "I fancy I play the worst game in the world. nigger!" one of the bystanders shouted. I wouldn't say that. making a sketch. he attempted to reassure her: "Oh. "you cannot do that. "Whar you-all been de las' foh days?" And Sam answered simply: "Ah's been comin' back." was the consoling response. he must be worse even than you are. dar.
" . sir. praise the Lord! I practise it!" GRAMMAR The passing lady mistakenly supposed that the woman shouting from a window down the street was calling to the little girl minding baby brother close by on the curb. however. inquired if she accepted the doctrine of Falling from Grace." she declared with pious zeal. the father called on his son to say grace. You are not going. So. the little man folded his hands with a pious air. not only from the excitement of the special service through which he had passed. can you say all that?" The little girl nodded and smiled brightly. four miles away. said: "Them hain't the boots what was stole. 'I am not going." was the reply. 'I ain't going. he was very hungry indeed and impatient to begin the meal. Us don't belong to she. he was tired." * * * The witness. He is not going. I ain't going. and. but also from walking to and from the church. The teacher corrected the child: "You must not say. during his visit to an old lady of his flock. Despite his protest. and spoke his prayer: "O Lord.'" And she added to impress the point: "I am not going. "No." she said kindly. at last. Amen!" * * * The new clergyman in the country parish. Now. "They ain't nobody going.' you must say. dear. At the dinner table. closed his eyes tight. We are not going. and. have mercy on these victuals. following the church service. "Your mother is calling you. The little girl corrected the lady: "Her ain't a-callin' we. The good woman nodded vigorously. "Yes. The boy was greatly embarrassed by the demand.GRACE The son and heir had just been confirmed. in answer to the lawyer's question." * * * The teacher asked the little girl if she was going to the Maypole dance. Moreover. They are not going. "I believe in it. bent his head reverently. too. the father insisted. "Sure!" she replied.
handed two to the discomfited physician. He cried aloud heart-rendingly. then took her departure. "Two hundred dollars. continued proudly: "It's a pity ye weren't there. GRIEF At the wake. young man--speak grammatic! You shouldn't ought to say." The physician replied very coldly to the effect that the fees of the physician must be paid in money." . not merely in gratitude. That's exactly the sort of grass Nebuchadnezzar would have given two hundred dollars an acre for. 'them boots what was stole. gentlemen.The judge rebuked the witness sternly: "Speak grammatic. how much am I offered for this field? Jest look at that grass." GREED An eminent doctor successfully attended a sick child. "Did you go to the cemetery for the burying?" the stricken husband inquired anxiously." was the answer. The woman opened the purse. pointed toward the rich expanse of herbage. then. After expressing her realization of the fact that his services had been of a sort that could not be fully paid for. the grateful mother called on the physician. offering the pasture lot for sale. and tore his hair. The next day. She put back three. A few days later. and took from it five $100 bills. and when he was answered in the negative. and shouted: "Now. waved his hand enthusiastically. 'them boots as was stealed. The other mourners had to restrain him from leaping into the open coffin. and he added: "Presents maintain friendship: they do not maintain a family.'" GRASS The auctioneer. Ye ought to have seen the way I cut up." "What is your fee?" the woman inquired.' you should ought to say. she continued: "But I hope you will accept as a token from me this purse which I myself have embroidered. a friend who had been at the wake encountered the widower on the street and spoke sympathetically of the great woe displayed by the man. the bereaved husband displayed all the evidences of frantic grief.
and rumbled in a threatening bass voice: "What the blazes d'ye mean. And every man of them walked forward into the dock.." * * * It is a matter of common knowledge that there have been troublous times in Ireland before those of the present. When the clergyman on whom they had called for the ceremony entered the parlor. and probably keep it up all day. as he opened the book to begin the service." HARD TO PLEASE The rather ferocious-appearing husband who had taken his wife to the beach for a holiday scowled heavily at an amateur photographer.. so. he directed them." The man addressed cringed. who found her at breakfast. and the bride stared back at him. he found the couple comfortably seated. an Irish Judge told as true of an experience while he was holding court in one of the turbulent sections. and replied placatingly: "You're mistaken. and as soon as I finish my tea I'll begin again." she concluded. "Please. really! I wouldn't think of doing such a thing. and then both regarded the clergyman. and cried and cried till breakfast time. HAIR The school girl from Avenue A. "And. photographin' my wife? I saw ye when ye done it.* * * The old woman in indigent circumstances was explaining to a visitor. I woke up at four o'clock." HABIT It was the bridegroom's third matrimonial undertaking. but very firm: "We have ginerally sot. They made no effort to rise.. When the jury entered the court-room at the beginning of the session. "this very morning." ." The bridegroom looked at the bride. while the man voiced their decision in a tone that was quite polite. stand up. and the bride's second. the bailiff directed them to take their accustomed places. In the days of the Land League. who had just learned that the notorious Gorgon sisters had snakes for hair. chewed her gum thoughtfully as she commented: "Tough luck to have to get out and grab a mess of snakes any time you want an extry puff. a long category of trials and tribulations.
He thereupon wrote a brief missive to the governor: "Deer guvner. When two men tried to drive it out." HEARSAY The convicted feudist was working for a pardon. the man shouted between gasps: . maybe it was true enough. A neighbor who chanced along inquired: "How's that new hand o' your'n?" "Cuss the critter!" was the bitter reply. and laid hold on the boar's tail. It was reported to him that the opposing clan was pulling wires against him. A parishioner meeting the parson in the street inquired: "When do you expect to see Deacon Jones again?" "Never." * * * A savage old boar got into a garden. and man and beast raced wildly round and round the tree. and was doing much damage. The opening paragraph left no doubt as to his urgent need: "Dear Boss: The white folks is got me in dis jail fixin' to hang me on Friday mornin' and here it is Wednesday already. eh?" the surly husband growled. the other dodged. "And why not? I'd like to know. human nature being what it is. Since all other efforts had failed him." HASTE The colored man was condemned to be hanged. still more savagely." HEAVEN The clergyman in the following story probably did not mean exactly what he said. "He ain't a hand--he's a sore thumb. though. Finally."Ye wouldn't. He hung on desperately. he addressed a letter to the governor. and spreading false reports concerning him. She's the handsomest woman on the beach. if youve heared wat ive heared youve heared youve heared a lie. "The deacon is in heaven!" HELP The farmer found his new hired man very unsatisfactory. never again!" the minister declared solemnly. with a plea for executive clemency. the animal charged. and was awaiting the time set for execution in a Mississippi jail. One of the two climbed a tree.
"The mayor is ut!" O'Rafferty snorted." It was explained to the complainant that the remedy for his need must be sought at the office of the mayor."For heaven's sake. "Sure and didn't I see the mayor? I did thot! And what did the mayor say to me? Huh! he said. but the letter _hen_. and that the only recourse must be to the mayor. climb down here. why don't you keep ducks?'" HEN The customer asked for fresh eggs." . After an interval of a few days." "But I don't see any hen. and help me leggo this ornery old hog!" HELPFULNESS Many a mayor is a friend to the people--just like his honor in the following story. mum. and the clerk in the London shop said: "Them are fresh which has a hen on 'em. and my hins will all be drowned intirely if it ain't fixed. "Sure. O'Rafferty made a second visit to the office of the registrar. 'Mr. And my cellar is full of wather. "Not the fowl. Jimmie?" "I'm cryin' because maw has wented to heaven." The registrar again explained that he was powerless in the matter. O'Rafferty. Bill. and he therefore departed to interview that official. A taxpayer entered the office of the water registrar in a small city. And I'm here to inform yez that I'm wantin' it fixed. and I've come agin to tell yez that my cellar is now fuller of water than ever it was before. and explained himself and his business there as follows: "My name is O'Rafferty." The clerk explained patiently. and I'm a man that carries votes in my pocket." HEREAFTER This is the dialogue between a little girl and a little boy: "What are you bawling about. _Hen_ stands for _noo-laid_. And I'm tellin' yez that I want it fixed.
" HEREDITY The woman." * * * . with drooping head. and fell to the ground. "Anyhow."That's silly. rather maliciously. answered cynically: "It's gone up to a dollar and ninety cents. but I'm terrible twisted. "And candy. "How do you like your new little brother?" she asked the child teasingly. bought a new pug dog." he declared in a tone of awe. and petted it so fondly as to excite the jealousy of her little daughter. stared down dully at the seat of his overalls. and shook his head. was still somewhat fuddled when he arose Monday morning. As he raised himself into a sitting position. Maybe she hain't. "No. "I'm not kilt." Alice declared. the hod-carrier. mamma?" The mother shook her head. I wonder where it's gone to?" The other. with the further result." * * * Little Alice questioned her mother concerning heaven. with the result that he put on his overalls wrong side to. a fellow workman asked solicitously: "Are yez kilt intoirly. perhaps: "He looks just like his muvver. too. The girl replied. that he was careless while mounting the ladder later with a load of bricks." HINDSIGHT Mike." HIGH PRICES Two men were talking together in the Public Library. who knew something of literature in its various phases. and seemed pleased to be assured that she would have wings and harp and crown. Mike?" Mike. "I'm tickled we have such a fine doctor. who had a turn-up nose and was somewhat self-conscious concerning it. One of them said: "The dime novel has gone.
The young woman shook her head. The woman teacher of that subject protested: "But it is certainly one of the easiest subjects. lived an aged negro whose proud boast was that he had been the body servant of George Washington." the head of the faculty declared. it is a very difficult study. 'Yoh blame' ole rascal. near Yorktown. To u$ it i$ a very important matter--it'$ nece$$ary in our bu$me$$. He was full of anecdotes concerning the Father of His Country. It was proposed that history should have the final place. an' he grab 'im by de collah. an' 'im an' me. he gwine pass dis way. an' when ole Co'nwallis. His favorite narrative was of the capture of Lord Cornwallis by his master. Gen'l Washin'ton.A rustic visitor to the city made a desperate run for the ferry boat as it was leaving the slip. and spoke firmly: "Not the way I teach it. Gen'l Washin'ton. we done hid behin' de bushes an' watched. and he made the most of his historical pretentions. jest over dar by de fo'ks. As he was very old indeed. At last he sat up feebly. then fell sprawling to the deck. $ome of them have made u$ many promi$e$. "What a jump!" HINTING A Kansas editor hit on the following gentle device for dunning delinquent subscribers to the paper: "There i$ a little matter that $ome of our $ub$criber$ have $eemingly forgotten entirely. and most perplexing. He made a mighty leap. but have not kept them. he jumped out at 'im. We are very mode$t and don't like to $peak about $uch remi$$ne$$." * * * Down in Virginia. Indeed. according to my method." HISTORY The faculty were arranging the order of examinations. dat de time what Ah done gone cotch ye!" HOGS The professor and his wife were doubtful about returning to the farm on which they had passed the previous summer. and covered the intervening space. he knowed dat ole Co'nwallis. and stared dazedly over the wide expanse of water between boat and shore. it were right on dis yere road. an' he say. he come by. Yassuh. where he lay stunned for about two minutes. It was agreed that the harder subjects should be placed first in the list. which was as follows: "Yassuh. and exploited himself in every tale. because they had been . "Holy hop-toads!" he exclaimed in a tone of profound awe. no one could disprove his claims.
One night at the front in France. the professor wrote to the farmer and explained the objectionable feature. on which she tapped daintily. "I wish to ask you a question. after seven years of effort on the stony farm. "In your daddy's barn!" the astonished lieutenant exclaimed. The officer spoke roughly: "Now." she said sweetly. while his company was stationed in a wood." HOLDING HIS OWN The farmer. "Before giving you my decision. I'm holdin' my own.somewhat annoyed by the proximity of the pigsty to the house. what are you bawling about. and passed along the hotel corridor to the door. you big baby?" "I wish I was in my daddy's barn!" replied the soldier in a plaintive voice. as he nodded assent: "Do you drink anything?" The young man replied without an instant of hesitation and proudly: "Anything!" And she fell into his arms. "What for? What would you do if you were in your daddy's barn?" "If I was in my daddy's barn." HOME BREW The young man had offered his heart and hand to the fair damsel. . Finally. The bride left the groom in their room while she went out on a brief shopping expedition. Be sure to come." the youth explained huskily through a choking sob. She returned in due time. He received the following reply: "We hain't had no hogs on the place since you was here last summer. announced to all and sundry: "Anyhow. I hadn't nothin' when I come here. HOMESICKNESS One of our volunteers in the late war lost some of his first enthusiasm under the bitter experience of campaigning. an' I haven't nothin' now. "I'd go into the house mighty quick!" HONEYMOON The newly married pair were stopping in a hotel. a lieutenant discovered the recruit sitting on a log and weeping bitterly." Then.
you've been settin' up with Nellie." . who an operation was to the hospital."I'm back. I'll say there hain't no cause for you to ruffle your shirt. it's a bathroom!" HONORABLE INTENTIONS A certain man notorious for his slowness paid attention for two years to a young lady. now. an' to church an' buggy-ridin'. and then remarked: "You must have sharper eyes than your mother. and stooping. heard these words: "It's a bum way to get a cat. without coming to the point." she murmured with wishful tenderness. sonny. My intentions is honorable--but remote. The visitor smiled in recognition of the lad's thoughtfulness. honey--let me in. had fallen ill. an' nothin's come of it. during this time found. which he laid on the guest's plate. honey--it's Susie! Let me in!" Thereupon a very cold masculine voice sounded through the door: "Madam. Where did you find it?" The boy replied with a flush of pride: "In the rat-trap. So. She knocked a little more firmly. and raised her voice somewhat to call again: "Honey. answerin' you as man to man. the nurse heard her muttering. this is not a beehive." HOSPITALITY The good wife apologized to her unexpected guests for serving the apple pie without cheese. The little boy of the family slipped quietly away from the table for a moment. Clinton. the father interviewed him: "Clinton. what be your intentions?" And Clinton responded unabashed: "Well. The girl's father thought it time for him to interfere. But there was no answer vouchsafed to her plea. I ask you. popped the cheese into his mouth." HOSPITAL Little Mary. an' takin' her to picnics. and that she must go The mother promised that if she would be very brave of trial she should have the very finest kitten to be As Mary was coming out from the influence of the anesthetic. as man to man. begged for a kitten. It was found that necessary for the child's cure. On the swain's next visit. and returned with a cube of cheese.
yes. "it is a humbug. then. They took the body of a centipede. Saturday evening. sir. 'Are you so hungry you want to saw some wood for a dinner?' And the answer is." "Ah. "Is damp. in one voice: "Oh. my boy?" asked the father." the girl gushed." "Well." HUMILITY The slow suitor asked: "Elizabeth. sir." Darwin declared. The naturalist gave a short glance at the exhibit and a long glance at the boys. She says." HUNGER "That woman never turns away a hungry man. The boys replied enthusiastically. dearest. "Please. the legs of a grasshopper and the head of a beetle. "Is what. "how delightfully humble of you.'" HUNTING . the wings of a butterfly. I accept. Yes. they visited Darwin. genuinely charitable!" "Hardly that." HUMIDITY The little boy had been warned repeatedly against playing on the lawn when it was damp. "'Put off thy shoes from they feet. his father heard him recite a Scripture verse learned for the Sunday school. "Did it hum?" he inquired solemnly.HUMBUG Two boys once thought to play a trick on Charles Darwin. Edward. for the ground whereon thou standest is----'" He halted at a loss. With the composite creature in a box. and glued these together to form a weird monster. 'No. would you like to have a puppy?" "Oh. will you tell us what sort of a bug this is?" the spokesman asked.
I am not making a social call. in a tone of sorrowing reminiscence: "He kicked the bucket. but brought home no game. was speaking of the serious illness of a distinguished statesman." ILLUSTRATION Pat was set to work with the circular saw during his first day at the . A friend twitted him with his failure: "Didn't you shoot anything at all?" The honest fellow nodded miserably. "Not exactly mad. "But." * * * The old man told how his brother made a hazardous descent into a well by standing in the bucket while those above operated the windlass. "I wish you to understand that I am here strictly on business. "It would be a great pity. "Sir!" she said haughtily. "Was he mad?" The sportsman shook his head doubtfully. The old man stroked his beard. I do not care to know you." "Why?" his questioner demanded. who prided himself on his mastery of colloquial expressions in English. "you will have to get some one to introduce you before I can pay you the money on this check." IDIOMS The foreigner. "and not so darned tickled neither!" IDENTITY The paying teller told mournfully of his experience with a strange woman who appeared at his wicket to have a check cashed." he asserted. madam.An amateur sportsman spent the day with dog and gun." he declared." he advised her. and spoke softly." The woman stared at him disdainfully. "And what happened?" one of the listeners asked as the aged narrator paused. "if such a splendid man should kick the ghost. "I shot my dog.
" "And your mother was named Bridget and your father Michael?" "They was. with his skates on his arm. The foreman gave careful instructions how to guard against injury. on turning. "I thought I might like to borrow your wooden leg to play hockey. sir?" "Well." IMPUDENCE The ice on the river was in perfect condition. When the door was opened by the old man." the lawyer asked. "Mr." was the answer. "I was jist doin' like this when." was the explanation. and finally answered in a tone of fretful dejection: "Seems like Elmiry's falin' drefful slow. who had lost a leg at Antietam. but no sooner was his back turned than he heard a howl from the novice. knocked at the door of the Civil War veteran." . That worthy scowled and spat. the boy asked: "Are you going out to-day. Dinged if I don't wish as how she'd git well." the boy suggested. he saw that Pat had already lost a finger. "Now. there's another gone!" IMPATIENCE An acquaintance encountered in the village inquired of Farmer Jones concerning his wife. no.saw mill. and. A small boy. County Mayo?" "I did that.--bejabers. "did you come from Castlebar. how did that happen?" the foreman demanded. or somethin'. and called the name of Timothy O'Toole. "Sure. do you--think--er--your mother might--er--seriously consider--er--becoming my--er-mother-in-law?" INHERITANCE A lawyer made his way to the edge of the excavation where a gang was working. who was seriously ill." INDIRECTION The bashful suitor finally nerved himself to the supreme effort: "Er--Jenny. sonny. "Who's wantin' me?" inquired a heavy voice. I guess not. "Why?" "If you ain't. O'Toole.
Bill. Mr. The aged king tottered to and fro on the stage as he declaimed: "On which one of my two sons shall I bestow the crown?" A voice came down from the gallery: "Hi saye. O'Toole?" the lawyer called down. that your Aunt Mary has died in Iowa." INITIATIVE The sweet little girl had a violent tussle with her particular chum." O'Toole leaned heavily on his pick." she added * * . Where'd you happen on it?" "It was pussonal property of a Boche what tried to take me prisoner." There was a short silence below. "to inform you." * Said one Tommy to another: "That's a snortin' pipe. and left you forty thousand dollars. "In wan minute." * * * In a London theatre. "Inherited it from him. "It's your Uncle Patrick. And there. "He has died in Texas. and I misdoubt me that I could go through all that money and live." the lawyer explained. O'Toole. guv'nor. and concluded by saying: "It was Satan who suggested to you the pulling of Jenny's hair." said the lawyer. Mr. "I've just stopped to lick the foreman." was bellowed in answer. a tragedy was being played. presently. Her mother reprimanded her."It is my duty. and then a lively commotion. "But. myke it 'arf a crown apiece." he declared." "I shouldn't be surprised." the child replied musingly. "I don't think I can take it. this time. O'Toole. "I'm not as strong as I wance was. leaving you an estate of sixty thousand dollars. "Are you coming. and shook his head in great weariness. His chief endeavor was to satisfy a huge inherited thirst. Mr. then. the lawyer sought him out again. Then he went back to his job." was the answer." It required just six months of extremely riotous living for O'Toole to expend all of the sixty thousand dollars.
"An' ma she promised me that I could drown 'em." INJUSTICE The child sat by the road bawling loudly. "kicking her in the shins was entirely my own idea.proudly. It was ended by Sissy's calling out: "You tan tum in now. Tom--I tooked it off. The child bawled the louder." the proud mother replied. "Just ten weeks old." * * * The very young clergyman made his first parochial call." "But I wants to. I'se in my nightie gown an' nurse says little boys mus'n't see little girls in their nightie gowns. Tom. A passer-by asked him what was the matter. isn't that too bad!" was the sympathetic response. The sharer of his seat was of an inquisitive turn." "But you tan't tum in. And the very young clergyman inquired interestedly: "And is it your youngest?" INQUISITIVENESS In the smoking car. He tried to admire the baby. but I see you've lost an arm. and . "Oh. finally hemmed and hawed. Sissy." There was a period of silence during which the astonished little boy reflected on the mystery." INNOCENCE A little girl four years old was alone in the nursery with the door closed and fastened when her little brother arrived and expressed a desire to come in. one of the passengers had an empty coatsleeve." "Well. and said: "I beg pardon." the boy wailed. The following was the dialogue: "I wants to tum in. "My ma. and asked how old it was. sir. and after a vain effort to restrain his curiosity. she's gone and drowned the kittens." The one-armed man picked up the empty sleeve in his remaining hand.
of course. darling. yes." the wife flared. I did. "I do believe you're right. and sobbed aloud. Willie. don't fail ." "But she did. I suppose?" "Not exactly. "Oh.felt of it with every evidence of astonishment." * * * The curiosity of the passenger was excited by the fact that his seatmate had his right arm in a sling. "That was the insult--that was to me. INSULT The young wife greeted her husband tearfully on his return from the day's work. The husband was aghast. but inclined to be skeptical. and it was addressed in your mother's writing. S. that's nonsense. dearest." INSOMNIA The man suffering from insomnia quite often makes a mistake in calling the doctor." the wife insisted. yes. when what he needs is the preacher. didn't you?" "Well." Willie agreed. I opened it." "Had an accident. "By my mother. She's a hundred miles away. of course. I did it in trying to pat myself on the back. every word of it." she gasped. so.--Dear Ella. "Insulted by whom?" "By your mother!" the wife declared. "I have been so insulted!" "Insulted!" Willie exclaimed wrathfully. "A letter came to you this morning. whatever did you want to pat yourself on the back for?" "Just for minding my own business. without any enthusiasm. and the following dialogue occurred: "You broke your arm. except----" "Except what?" "Except the postscript. "It said: 'P. "Bless my soul!" he exclaimed." "Oh." The tears flowed again." "My land! On the back! Now. Ella? Why. "And it was written to you all the whole way through.
But do you ask questions about how the fire came to start?" "We make careful investigation. the Deacon rose up in front and said. you pay me a thousand if my house burns down. looked across the damask and silver and cut glass at his wife." she concluded. to relate my experience. After contemplating the audience for a few minutes. 'Will some brother please close that window. and remarked enviously: "These inventors make the money. etc. "if I pay five dollars." ITEMS The painter was required to render an itemized bill for his repairs on various pictures in a convent. The statement was as follows: Corrected and renewed the Ten Commandments Embellished Pontius Pilate and put a new ribbon on his bonnet 6. "I knew there was a catch in it. Artemas Ward once startled the crowd of listeners by announcing a fifteen-minute intermission.06 ." Corwin explained.to give this letter to Willie. "and opened my mouth." INTERMISSION During a lecture. in order to pass the time. "Just as I thought. he relieved their bewilderment by saying: "Meanwhile. Take cleaners. The woman flounced toward the door disgustedly. "So." the agent replied." she called over her shoulder." INVENTORS The profiteer. I'll bet that feller Vacuum has cleared millions.00 3. "When I stood up in the class meeting. He claimed that he had been insulted by a deacon of his church.'" * * * Tom Corwin was remarkable for the size of his mouth. I want him to read it. now. skimming over the advertisements in his morning paper. we will proceed with the lecture. of course. and keep it closed!'" INSURANCE The woman at the insurance office inquired as to the costs. amounts paid.
the glum individual explained: "I am alive.00 ----53. Matilda.06 2." KINSHIP The urchin was highly excited. John the Baptist and straightened his eye Replumed and gilded the left wing of the Guardian Angel Washed the servant of the High Priest and put carmine on his cheeks Renewed Heaven.07 2. enlarged Goliath's hand and extended his legs Decorated Noah's Ark Mended the shirt of the Prodigal Son. save one glum guest.00 1.20 1.02 3. Peter and mended his bill Put a new nose on St. They stuff turkeys with chestnuts after they are dead. and well he might be when we consider his explanation: "They got twins up to sisters. and cleaned the pigs 4. they insisted that this melancholy person should contribute to the entertainment.04 8. an' so I'm a uncle an' a aunt.Put a new tail on the rooster of St. an' one twin. he's a boy. to offer a conundrum: "What is the difference between me and a turkey?" When none could guess the answer. she's a girl.83 JOKES The joke maker's association had a feast. One twin. and all made merry. adjusted ten stars. He consented. They exploited their humorous abilities.06 4. concerning a raid made on the chicken-house during the night.10 2. At last. in response to much urging.08 5. mended his left hoof and did several odd jobs for the damned Put new spatter-dashes on the son of Tobias and dressing on his sack Rebordered the robe of Herod and readjusted his wig Cleaned the ears of Balaam's ass. and shod him Put earrings in the ears of Sarah Put a new stone in David's sling. put a new tail on the devil.06 5. .08 2." * * * The Southern lady interrogated her colored cook.00 3.00 2. gilded the sun and cleaned the moon Reanimated the flames of Purgatory and restored some souls Revived the flames of Hell.
Finally. They clinched. Matilda. If I had gone out dar an' kotched him. he would hab made me tote de chickens home foh him. they broke away. ma'am. an' I heerd the voices ob de men. appealed to the clergyman in a loud whisper. an' I wouldn't hab him know I'se los' confidence in him foh all de chickens in de world. and given her supper." KISSING The subject of kissing was debated with much earnestness for a half hour between the girl and her young man caller." she exclaimed. "I heerd de chickens holler. who was in a horribly nervous condition.. The fellow insisted that it was always possible for a man to kiss a girl at will. The maiden was firm in maintaining that such was not the case. an'. My foot slipped. "Humph! He's already done more than enough for her. "I know'd my old fadder was dar. with an expression of grief on her dusky features. they tried it. The girl had been kissed--ardently for a period of minutes. and fed her candy. Let's try it again.. it would have broke his ole heart. besides. and it seems to me you must have heard the noise when those thieves were stealing the chickens." ." Matilda admitted. and the battle was on. you really didn't win fair. Her comment showed an undaunted spirit: "Oh. and taken her home in a taxi. Matilda wept. it was decided that the only solution of the question must be by a practical demonstration one way or the other." * * * The young man addressed the old grouch: "When a fellow has taken a girl to a show. After a lively tussle.. at the close of the ceremony: "Is it kisstomary to cuss the bride?" The clergyman might have replied: "Not yet."You sleep right close to the chicken-house. whether she chose to permit it or not." "Then why didn't you go out and stop them?" the mistress demanded. ma'am. well. shouldn't she let a fellow kiss her good-night?" The old grouch snorted." KISSES The bridegroom. but soon. "Case." "Yes. So.
" But the astonishing phrase did not dismay him in the least. but. and thy lips from speaking guile. Thereupon. and then. my minimum fee is one hundred dollars.* * * The tiny boy fell down and bumped his head. and decided that he would be lucky to obtain a ten-dollar fee. he misread the sentence. His Uncle Bill picked the child up. in preference to those that squeak under the operation. It is recorded of a certain elder that as he read and commented on the thirty-fourth Psalm. if not notorious. ." LAWYERS There was a town jail. as he was set down. He named that amount as necessary to secure the prisoner's release. addressed his uncle eagerly: "Come down in the kitchen--the cook has the toothache." He carelessly read the last two words: "squeaking girls. that the Scripture does not absolutely forbid kissing. with the remark: "Now I'll kiss it. the old colored man drew forth a large roll of bills. "Keep thy tongue from evil. or cause him to hesitate in his exegesis." LAW The lawyer explained to the client his scale of prices: "I charge five dollars for advising you as to just what the law permits you to do. The lawyer surveyed the tattered client as he listened. For giving you advice as to the way you can safely do what the law forbids. The fact was worth forty dollars to the lawyer who was approached by an old darky in behalf of a son languishing in duress." The youngster recovered his smiles under the treatment. we are here encouraged by this passage to choose rather those girls that take it quietly. The lawyer's greedy eyes popped. as in Christianity everything is to be done decently and in order." LAUGHTER Josh Billings said: "Laff every time yu pheel tickled--and laff once in a while enny how. He expounded instantly and solemnly: "It is evident from this passage. and the pain will all be gone. my brethren. "What jail is your son in?" he inquired craftily. and there was a county jail." * * * Some Scottish deacons were famous. and peeled off a ten. for the readiness with which they could expound any passage of Scripture.
He saluted. "I'm sorry. One of these is based on the fact that furloughs were especially difficult to obtain when the Union army was in front of Petersburg. Called on Laura Sears. . I've been in the field now three years. "would ye be after pardonin' me for a brief remark jist at this toime?" "Yes. declaring that it is injurious to the health to lie on both sides. She doesn't want you to come home. But a certain Irishman was resolved to get a furlough in spite of the ban. I've jest had a letter from your wife myself." the officer assented. Virginia. LEGERDEMAIN "What did you do last night?" "I went to a slight-of-hand performance. It will cost you at least fifty dollars." LENT "Did you give up anything during Lent?" one man asked another. an' never home yet to see me family. lawyers as a class enjoy good health. Then he faced about. sir. and delivered himself thus: "Colonel. uttered with a heavy sigh. "That's bad--very bad. She writes me that you'd only get drunk. quite cheerfully. but to tell the truth. "Colonel dear. and she slighted it. He saluted and went to the door of the tent. So you'd better stay right here until your term of service expires. I've come to ax you to allow me the pleasure of a furlough for a visit home." The colonel shook his head decisively." * * * Some physicians direct their patients to lie always on the right side. Yet. He went to the colonel's tent. and disgrace her and the children." he inquired in a wheedling voice. "Yes." "All right." he replied. certainly." "In the county jail!" was the exclamation in a tone of dismay." LIARS The World War has incited veterans of the Civil War to new reminiscences of old happenings. Mike." Mike answered. and was permitted to enter. An' I jest had a letter from me wife wantin' av me to come home to see her an' the children."In the county jail. "I gave up fifty dollars for a new Easter bonnet." was the reply. "No. and offered her my hand. I don't think you ought to go home.
" The clergyman again paused. But now when you have heard a whopping lie. I came to the house of a farmer." Jennie replied. he paused." LIES A certain famous preacher when preaching one Sunday in the summer time observed that many among the congregation ware drowsing. Colonel darlint." "Well. This was to the following effect: "I was once riding along a country road. you went to sleep. for Thou knowest that feathers are splendid non-conductors. but should only state what . so to spake?" "No." LITERAL The class had been told by the teacher to write compositions in which they must not attempt any flights of fancy. an' sure I'm one av thim--I have no wife. her voice was heard in shrill supplication: "O Lord. and afterward continued in a loud voice. She was delivering an address at a religious convention when a tempest suddenly broke with din of thunder and flare of lightning. and she was religious. take us under Thy protecting wings. "A panther ith a man who makes panth. what a panther is?" "Yeth. you are all wide-awake. ma'am. thin. and halted to observe one of the most remarkable sights I have ever seen. I'm afther thinkin' thar are at the prisint moment in this tint two of the biggest liars in all the Army of the Potomic. Everybody was now wide-awake. beaming. This sow and each of her offspring had a long curved horn growing out of the forehead between the ears. relating an incident that had no connection whatever with his sermon. indeed! Say what you wish to. Above the noise of the elements. There was a sow with a litter of ten little pigs." LIGHTNING The woman was strong-minded. and ran his eye over the congregation. Jennie. then." LISP The kindergarten teacher questioned her tiny pupil: "Do you know. He thereupon remarked: "Behold how strange! A few minutes since."Ye won't git mad an' put me in the guard house for freein' me mind. Suddenly. when I was telling you the truth. and she was also afflicted with a very feminine fear of thunder storms.
" LOGIC The mother came on her little son who was standing thoughtfully before the gooseberry bush in the garden. no! Of course not. "I'm finkin. little lamb?" she asked tenderly. muvver. but the expression of trouble deepened." the store-keeper answered briskly. two apples. two cakes and my dinner. "life-preservers. but wright just what is really in me." LOQUACITY The two old Scotchmen played a round of seventeen holes without a word exchanged between them. The star production from this command was a composition written by a boy who was both sincere and painstaking. I fink I've swallowed a catapillar. an' sich.was really in them. little man?" "Have gooseberries any legs. invalid cushions." LITERALNESS The visitor from the city stopped in at the general store of the village. as he spoke again: "Then. dear. "What about. As they came to the eighteenth green. "Why. In me there is my stommick. and inquired: "Have you anything in the shape of automobile tires?" "Yep. muvver. She noted that his expression was both puzzled and distressed." Quoth Tammas. liver." the boy answered. what's the matter. lungs." The perplexity passed from the little boy's face. funeral wreaths. Sandy surveyed the lie. It ran as follows: "I shall not attempt any flites of fancy. with a snarl: "Chatter-r-rbox!" LOVE The philosopher calmly defined the exact difference between life and . muvver?" "Why. doughnuts. and muttered: "Dormie.
I've sot hour after hour in them games. God loves you." * * * "How did you find your steak?" asked the waiter of a patron in the very expensive restaurant. "God doesn't love me. Deacon Tracey. And then." the hungry man replied. "Have you had some good luck?" his wife questioned." she sobbed.love: "Life is just one fool thing after another: love is just two fool things after each other. 'long about four o'clock in the mornin'." LUCK The pessimist quoted from his own experience at poker in illustration of the general cussedness of things: "Frequent. "How did you ever come to get such an idea?" "No." LOVE ME. and saw a man fishing from the . sadly. He lost practically nothing but his life. "Just luck. the luck'd turn--it'd take a turn for the worse." LUNACY The lunatic peered over the asylum wall. "Of course. "I happened to move that small piece of potato. I know--I tried Him with a daisy. smiling radiantly." * * * The editor of the country paper went home to supper. I have sot in a poker game. without ever takin' a pot. and there it was!" * * * The new reporter wrote his concluding paragraph concerning the murder as follows: "Fortunately for the deceased." the child persisted. "He doesn't love me. who hasn't paid his subscription for ten years. and it sure is queer how things will turn out." the mother declared. "Luck! I should say so. LOVE ME NOT The little girl came in tears to her mother. came in and stopped his paper. he had deposited all of his money in the bank the day before.
It was raining hard. You won't ever tell another falsehood. which cooled the fevered brow of the lunatic and enabled him to think with great clearness. 'Damn the parade!' and turn over and go to sleep again. and shook his head glumly. and called down an invitation: "Come inside!" LUXURY The retired colonel. and flies with him up to the moon. and say. he called down to the drenched fisherman: "Caught anything?" The man on the bank looked up. a great big black man. who had seen forty years of active service. with horns on his head and one eye in the center of his forehead. "How long you been there?" the lunatic next demanded. "Do you know. she sought to impress upon him the enormity of his offense. 'Time for the parade. The lunatic grinned hospitably. "what happens to little boys who tell falsehoods?" The culprit shook his head in great distress. explicit instructions: "Every morning. With tears in her eyes. long his orderly." the judge announced in a very cold voice. Sam. darling? It's wicked!" . and as he is leaving town to-day for some years I want to catch him before he gets to the train and pay him the money. "Three hours. sir. "I don't want anybody on the jury who can lie like you. will you. you are to wake me up. declaring: "I owe a man twenty-five dollars that I borrowed. In consequence. and a catch in her voice. comes along and grabs the little boy who has told a falsehood. I'll say." was the answer. at five sharp." she questioned severely. and the mother explained carefully: "Why." LYING The juryman petitioned the court to be excused.bank of the river that ran close by." * * * The tender young mother detected her baby boy in a deliberate lie." "You are excused. gave his body servant.' "Then. and keeps him there sifting ashes all the rest of his life.
the Prince drew himself haughtily erect." MANNERS It is told of Prince Herbert Bismarck that at a reception in the Royal Palace in Berlin he rudely jostled a high dignitary of the Italian church. when he had made an end. some low-brow would drift in an' drink out of the saucer." * * * After treading rather heavily on her foot. a seat struck me. I'd slap your dirty face!" . and there was no saucer for the cup." said the languishing coquette to her most intimate confidante. and I got up." * * * The tenderfoot in the Western town asked for coffee and rolls at the lunch counter. it is a complete explanation. if we did. She listened in grim silence. spoke very much to the point: "That's it! Walk all over a body's feet. "I am Herbert Bismarck. In answer to the prelate's expression of annoyance." replied the churchman." "Ah. This here is a swell dump. "that fact is perhaps an apology." he gurgled. and began like this: "As I was sitting on my thought. the man in the street car made humble apology to the woman. "what a whopper!" MAIDENS "I wish I could know how many men will be made wretched when I get married. We found.Mother's baby boy regarded the speaker with round-eyed admiration. But last night at the dinner at the club they insisted on my making some remarks. and." MAIDEN SPEECH The unhappy man explained the cause of his wretchedness: "I've never made a speech in my life. an' then blat about how sorry you be. He was served by the waitress. certainly. I jest want you to understand that if I wasn't a puffick lady. Well. an' that ain't good fer trade. like's not. The girl explained: "We don't hand out saucers no more. and said. "if you'll tell me how many men you're going to marry. "What about the saucer?" he asked. ma." came the catty answer. "I'll tell you. "Oh.
* The solemn ceremony young bride and the was a sound of loud but a member of the * * of marriage was being performed for the blushing elderly gentleman who had been thrice widowed. nice locality. Doc. "Where did you first meet this woman who has thus abused you?" The little man shuddered. the scrawniest and skinniest beanpole-type citizen got shot in the leg." "_Some_ shootin'!" And the doctor slammed the window shut. Joe Jinks's been shot. bony belligerent and baleful female who was his wife.MARKSMANSHIP During the Saturday night revels in a frontier town. "Comea-runnin'." * * * . from August 1st. but marriage is an eye-opener. "Let us begin at the beginning. "Whazzamazzer?" he called down. and looked everywhere except at his wife as he replied: "I never did. She jest naturally overtook me. The only doctor in the town had done celebrating and gone to bed. She always cries when Pa is gettin' married. MARRIAGE Love is blind." "Whereabouts shot?" "In the laig. * * * The mild little husband was appealing to the court for protection from the large. until he thrust his head out of a window. There sobs from the next room. for nearly married couple. A posse of citizens pounded on the doctor's door. bridegroom's family explained: "That's only our Jane. meet up with her." said the judge. The guests were startled. so to say." * * * An African newspaper recently carried the following advertisement: _Wanted_ Small nicely furnished house.
"never mind. since you are as mean as that." the justice commended. "Him. very well. "You told me." she protested to the cook." "Dat nigger. I'm bossed by pa an ma. Mirandy. rebellious against the conditions of his life." the cook declared scornfully. an' I ain't going to stan' for it.The mistress was annoyed by the repeated calls of a certain negro on her colored cook." * * * The woman was six feet tall and broad and brawny in proportion." * * * The very youthful son of a henpecked father was in a gloomy mood. A married man ain't bossed by nobody 'cept his wife. an' what Mirandy she don't like. When they had done so he raised his own right hand impressively and spoke solemnly: "I pronounce you twain woman and husband. But this fellow is in the kitchen all the time. I jist nacherly hev to hate." * * * Deacon Gibbs explained why he had at last decided to move into town in spite of the fact that he had always declared himself a lover of life in the country. your honor. "Did you promise to marry this lady?" the justice asked. He announced a desperate purpose: "I'm going to get married. The man was a short five feet." . I'm going to get married right smack off." the husband protested indignantly. "Guilty. he's jes' my 'usban'. "But. an' teacher." was the answer." * * * The wife suggested to her husband that he should pay back to her the dollar he had borrowed the week before. The woman haled him before the justice of the peace with a demand that he marry her or go to jail. "My third wife. "that you had no man friends. "Join hands." the wife retorted with a contemptuous sniff. The justice turned to the woman: "Are you determined to marry this man?" "I am!" she snapped. he hain't no friend o' mine. But his explanation was clear and conclusive. she don't like the country. "I've already paid that dollar back to you twice! You can't expect me to pay it again!" "Oh. anemic and wobegone.
an' she always done her duty by me an' the children. 'deed ah did." * * * There were elaborate preparations in colored society for a certain wedding. an' she warn't sickly. You see. I never did like Maria. and asked to have another name substituted for that of the lady. The clerk remarked that the change would cost him another dollar and a half for a new license. it's fine! but. She was a good-lookin' woman. I'm feelin' pretty peart.. this ole one will do. "I done changed mah mind." * * * The New England widower was speaking to a friend confidentially a week after the burial of his deceased helpmate. de hull house was jes' crowded wiv de gifts. "ain't it tedious!" * * * The negro. The clerk nodded. ma'am--getting married is! Yes'm." she added suddenly. There ain't a dollar and a half difference in them niggers no how. The prospective bride had been maid to a lady who met the girl on the street a week after the time set for the ceremony and inquired concerning it: "Did you have a big wedding. an' smart as they make 'em.* * * A lady received a visit from a former maid three months after the girl had left to be married. land's sake. The bride replied with happy enthusiasm: "Oh. But dang it all! Somehow. an' a fine housekeeper.. "Is that the law?" the colored man demanded in distress. "Never mind." "Did you receive handsome presents?" "Yes'm. missus. boss. "pearter'n I've felt afore in years." he admitted. ma'am. after obtaining a marriage license. and the applicant thought hard for a full minute: "Gee!" he said at last. "I'm feelin' right pert. she was a good wife. yes'm. Yes. de most splendiferous occasion ob de season. it's fine. Martha?" "'Deed ah did. returned a week later to the bureau. "And how do you like being married?" the lady inquired. an' I never hearn a cross word out o' her in all the thutty year we lived together.." "And was your house nicely decorated?" ." he announced.
low-down houn' dawg. or the barber. jes' de same!" MERIT Mrs. . the colonel happened along. which he had brought from the canteen." MILITARY DISCIPLINE The raw recruit was on sentry duty. he didn't show up at all. But he wiltered as the officer sternly declared his identity. belonging to a man blessed (?) with seven daughters."Yes'm. Just then. look jes' lak a white-folks' weddin'. He had a piece of pie. and scowled at the sentry." "And the bridegroom. He tells me that fer meritorious condooct. twenty-seven cuff-buttons. six pocket-knives. Ah was some kid. Flannagan beamed appreciatively on hearing the glad tidings. the following articles were discovered: Forty-seven hairpins. a vial of homeopathic medicine for the nerves. which was sent to the upholsterer to be repaired. but we had a magnificious occasion wivout him. An' everybody done wear der very best. four photographs. his sintince will be reduced six months. an' what a comfort it must be t' yez. when taken apart. "Do you know who I am?" the officer demanded. "Please. yes'm. yes'm. some grains of coffee. hold this pie while I present arms. "Oh good land!" the recruit cried out in consternation. Rafferty stopped to address Mrs. how did he appear?" "De bridegroom? Aw. two hundred and seventeen pins. thirteen needles. "Mebby. three mustache combs. who paid no attention to him whatever. and proceeded to enjoy it. yes'm. dat triflin'. who was standing at ease in the door of the tenement. nineteen suspender buttons. Martha. Ah done wore mah white bridal dress an' orange blossoms. a number of cloves." Mrs. all unmarried. eight cigarettes. thirty-four lumps of chewing-gum. fifteen poker-chips. She spoke with an air of fine pride: "I'm afther havin' a letter from me boy." MISCELLANY It is related concerning a sofa." "And yourself. or mebby the colonel himself." The sentry laughed loudly at his own wit. the veterinarian. havin' a son what does ye such credit. "Sure. that. yes'm. how did you look?" "Ah was sutinly some scrumptious. The sentry shook his head. now. Flannagan.
" The modest man turned scarlet as he huskily faltered: "I fear. and determined to hasten the hatching. She ran up the steps of her home. So. Pat chased it. and the man pursued through the driving rain. He stamped on the pumpkin. feeling herself safe at last. Pat was ambitious to own a mule. MISTAKEN IDENTITY The raw Irishman was told by the farmer for whom he worked that the pumpkins in the corn patch were mule's eggs. where he was due at three o'clock in the morning. which only needed someone to sit on them to hatch." "How dare you!" the woman boomed." * * * The little man was perfectly harmless. I want my umbrella. fourteen button-hooks. but she spoke in a heavy voice that filled the whole car: "What are you standing up there for? Come here. A shower came up.fifty-nine toothpicks. he sat on it industriously every moment he could steal from his work. since they were somewhat crowded on the seat. When she heard the servant coming to the door. She had guessed that he was a masher. She walked quickly down the side street. "You know perfectly well I was speaking to my niece behind you. She gave him no thanks as she seated herself. she pushed the umbrella between her knee and his and held it firmly as a barrier. Came a day when he grew impatient. two switches. a transformation and two plates of false teeth. selecting a large pumpkin. and sit on my lap. and. a startled rabbit broke from its cover in an adjacent corn shock and scurried across the field. twenty-eight matches. He ." * * * The traveling salesman instructed the porter that he must leave the train at Cleveland. anyhow?" The drenched little man at the foot of the steps spoke pleadingly: "If you please. and the woman when she left the car. ma'am. As it broke open. she perceived that the little man had followed her. As she did so. shouting: "Hi. she faced about and addressed her pursuer angrily: "How dare you follow me! How dare you! What do you want. and rang the bell. and suspicious of all males. put up the umbrella. but the lady sitting next to him in the car was a spinster. thar! Stop! don't yez know your own father?" * * * The meek-looking gentleman arose hastily and offered his seat in the car to the self-assertive woman who had entered and glared at him. now she knew it. that I am not worthy of such an honor. which apparently had bitten each other. madam.
with Cleveland far behind. mama. God's angels are all about you." It is a fact that the clergyman did ask just those three questions in that order. dear. a cry from the child called the mother back into the room. and did it forcibly. and they bite!" * * * The new clergyman was coming to call." * * * The child went with her mother on a visit in New Jersey. say God made me. and the mother gave Emma some instructions: "If he asks your name. In a rage. When at last the outraged salesman went away. His eyes popped at sight of the furious traveling man. or with red backs and speckled edges for one dollar and a half. and that any infants to receive the rite should be brought to the church at that time. a baby had been added to . only a few weeks earlier. to the first two of which Emma replied correctly. if he asks how old you are. He did all the talking. The old clergyman. The colored man was in a highly disheveled state and his face was bruised badly. say Emma Jane. He emphasized his instructions with a generous tip. say you are eight years old. who was deaf. But it is also a fact that when the minister propounded the third query. saying: "Remember." * * * The assistant minister announced to the congregation that a special baptismal service would be held the following Sunday at three o'clock in the afternoon. if he asks who made you. thought that his assistant was speaking of the new hymnals. Ah shohly wonder who-all Ah done put off at Cleveland. but I've gone and forgotten it." * * * The editor of a country newspaper betook himself to a party at the house of a neighbor. as to her origin. but the mother comforted her. At bedtime. and muttered: "Now." A little later. who allowed no opportunity for explanations or excuses. the little girl was nervous over the strangeness of her surroundings.explained that violence might be necessary because he did not wake easily. the porter shook his head dismally. "The angels are buzzing all around just dreadful. and he added a bit of information: "Anyone not already provided can obtain them in the vestry for a dollar. and then said: "Mama did tell me the man's name. The drummer awoke at six in the morning. the child hesitated. where. he sought the porter.
She continued sympathetically. in an article on Sir Henry Irving for a London weekly wrote: "I was his guest regularly at all Lyceum first nights for a whole quarter of a century." MONEY TALKS The disreputable-looking panhandler picked out an elderly gentleman of most benevolent aspect and made a plea for a small financial contribution. as a precautionary measure for the sake of his condition. while he yoked himself to a steer for the pulling. this was the very worst one she had ever had. he should come in out of the draft and sit down and stay quiet. a woman who suffered to some extent from deafness. the young man shouted: "Here we come--darn our fool souls! Somebody head us off!" MIXED METAPHORS A babu. lacking a team of horses or oxen or mules for his ploughing. The hostess had a severe cold. the good lady noticed the flabbergasted air of her guest. and the lad had no choice but to run too.. or native clerk.. he was met at the door by his hostess. The steer promptly ran away. After the usual exchange of greetings.the family. I have no money. On the editor's arrival at the house. Then she insisted that. So she explained to the aghast editor who had asked about the baby that. thinking that he was solicitous on her account. MISMATED A Texas lad." MODESTY A British journalist. Having explained thus far. and she now misunderstood the visitor's inquiry concerning the baby. And as he raced wildly. in India. saying that she could tell by his looks and the way he acted that he was going to have one just like hers. When he had finished his narrative of misery and woe the elderly gentleman replied benignantly: "My good friend. the editor inquired concerning the health of the baby. but I can give you some good advice. He delighted in the company of third-rate people. engaged his sister to direct the plough. and at first confined her to her bed.. it kept her awake at night a great deal. although she usually had one every winter. who prided himself on his mastery of the English tongue and skill in its idioms." . They came shortly into the village and went tearing down the street. sent the following telegram in announcement of his mother's death: "Regret to announce that hand which rocked the cradle has kicked the bucket.
dear. In speaking of some very beautiful grapes served." MONEY VALUE A well-known millionaire entertained Edward Everett Hale with other guests at a dinner. "I reckon your advice ain't worth hearin'." he jeered. "It is plain enough why the foreign devil has only one wife." the Christian lady replied. "The very idea.87 worth more. "Yes. and uttered an oath of disgust. It gets kin' o' tiresome teasin' the cat." MOSQUITOES . with the request: "I'll thank you to cut me off about $1. Tell them we haven't any lawn-mower. "of cutting grass on the Sabbath! Shameful! Certainly." she exclaimed to her maid. ain't I?" "Why." MORALITY The more-or-less-religious woman was deeply shocked when the new neighbors sent over on Sunday morning to borrow her lawn-mower. "Why. I do. please." MONOTONY The son of the house addressed his mother wistfully." MONOGAMY The wives of the savage chief questioned the wife of the missionary: "And you never let your husband beat you?" "Certainly not. he wouldn't dare to try such a thing!" The oldest wife nodded understandingly. they can't have it. do you want one?" The child nodded seriously. Doctor Hale grinned pleasantly as he extended his empty plate. The host was not only hospitable. and did not hesitate to give their value in dollars and cents. "I'm going to have a little sister some day. he extolled the various viands. but wished every one to know his liberality. mama. "If you hain't got no money. he wearied the company by a careful calculation as to just how much a stem of them had cost him. which had been grown on his estate. During the meal.The tramp spat contemptuously.
He tould me it was Latin for." The barkeeper scowled. It was soon demonstrated that French was a language unknown to the establishment. To settle the matter. monsieur_.'" MUSIC ." "No. ner nobody!" MOTTO Two men walking along Avenue A in New York City observed a dingy saloon." "I don't believe anybody talks French in that dump. the skeeters so completely intoxicated they don't care a cuss foh Marse George. "we're using mouse-traps. "Funny!" the guest remarked." The Irish barkeeper cursed heartily. In the mawnin. "Come agin!" he demanded. The visitor then inquired as to the reason for the sign in the window. 'God Bless Our Home." he explained. "for six bits.The visitor from another state talked so much concerning the size and fierceness of New Jersey mosquitoes that his host became somewhat peeved. they entered. "French is spoken here. reading: "_Ici on parle francais_. "You haven't your porch screened. explaining that it meant. "I bought it off a sheeny. Always when he come home nights. An aged negro who listened respectfully explained a method by which the pests might be endured. suh. and ordered ginger ale of a red-headed barkeeper who was unmistakably Irish. One of the men addressed the barkeeper: "_Fait beau temps. when Marse George done git up." the host snapped. "My old Marse George. he so completely intoxicated he don't care a cuss foh all the skeeters in the hull creation." * * * A visitor in the South complained bitterly concerning the plague of mosquitoes. in the window of which was a framed sign. he done managed them animiles sholy splendiferous. But this was in the days before prohibition." one of the observers remarked.
"Because it works two ways: sometimes the music helps to make me forget the food. who was interested in music. and then asked: "Would you be so kind as to play something by request?" The leader bowed again and beamed. was sitting on the porch one June evening with his best girl. "please be good enough to play a game of checkers while I finish my meal. and sometimes the food helps to make me forget the music." * * * The young man. sir." he replied. next to the orchestra. who was interested in natural history." "Then. which contained some particularly long rests for the soloist: During one of these intervals. don't it sound grand!" The young man nodded." NEATNESS The Japanese are remarkably tidy in the matter of floors. and whispered loudly: "Why don't you play something that you know. They even . my boy?" * * * The apoplectic and grumpy old gentleman in the crowded restaurant was compelled to sit. I sing. rendering a difficult concerto. the girl to the latter. a kindly dowager leaned toward the performer. and then others are sad with me." * * * The optimistic pessimist explained why he always dined in restaurants where music was provided." snapped the patron. "Certainly. and answered: "Yes. and from the village church down the street came the sounds of choir practise. His stare at the leader as the jazz selection came to an end. "anything you like. and presently she spoke eagerly: "Oh. The rhythmic shrilling of the insects pulsed on the air. played at a private musical." * * * The boy violinist. The young man gave his attention to the former.Artemas Ward said: "When I am sad. indeed! and it's interesting to think that they do it all with their hind legs. The annoyed patron snorted. much against his will.
" the patient explained." NEIGHBORS It was a late hour when the hostess at the reception requested the eminent basso to sing. "To whom?" "To my wife. the little one commented: "It's temper when it's me an' nerves when it's you. the host brightened. After she had been neatly tucked in. "That's what makes it a nightmare. hum!" the physician grunted perfunctorily." declared the lady. A Japanese student in New York was continually distressed by the dirty hallways of the building in which he lived. "Besides. the janitor placed a notice at the entrance. "I should disturb your neighbors. madam. they poisoned our dog last week. Questioned on his return as to the repast. and marked down an item of ten dollars charge for livery." he protested.remove their shoes at the doorway. which read: "Please wipe your feet. "What is it?" The suffering man answered: "I dream that I'm married. In the autumn. beaming. and had eaten his mid-day meal there." "Not at all. "It is too late." "Ah." NERVES The older sister rebuked the younger when putting her to bed for being cross and ill tempered throughout the day. NOMENCLATURE The young son of a mountaineer family in North Carolina had visited for the first time in the town twelve miles from home." NIGHTMARE "And you say you have the same nightmare every night. he ." The inn-keeper was inclined to take advantage of a particular guest who did not scrutinize the bills rendered. When the clerk mentioned the fact that this guest had complained of a nightmare." The Japanese wrote beneath in pencil: "On going out." the doctor inquired.
" * * * The lady who had some culture. the farmer regarded her critically. then shouted: "Who in thunder is Jim?" * * * On an occasion when a distinguished critic was to deliver a lecture on the poet Keats in a small town. His mistakes were so bad was compelled to watch him closely. who knew nothing of the on by a furniture house. and then demanded: "Ain't you a lot fatter than you was?" "Yes. and concluded a few happy remarks of a general character with this observation: "And now. dad. and then remarked: "Where are your sideboards?" The clerk blushed furiously. all of a sudden. who was more popular than learned.described it with enthusiasm. She accepted his apology. an' I believe in my soul 'twar sop!" * * * When his daughter returned from the girls' college. there beside him was a yawning abbess!" . and the mayor. and to fire him episode. was asked to officiate. But hit looked like sop. but not too much. who had been in Messina at the time of the earthquake. "When Jim went to bed. which was an unfortunate error since the lady was an old maid. A lady customer asked to see some chiffoniers. "I weigh one hundred and forty pounds stripped for 'gym." the girl admitted. a new clerk." she declared. we shall soon all know what I personally have often wondered--what are Keats!" * During the scarcity business. And then. "It was awful. The amiable gentleman introduced the stranger with his accustomed eloquence. however. as he replied: "Why--er--I shaved them off last week. The clerk led her to the display of bassinettes. an' hit tasted like sop. except in one particular: "They done had something they called gravee. the president of the local literary society was prevented by illness from introducing the speaker. my friends. was taken that the proprietor after the following * * of labor. in tense tones. when he woke up. was describing the adventure of her husband. everything was perfectly quiet.'" The father stared for a moment in horrified amazement.
Now." The conductor waved. what on earth is an octogenarian anyhow?" "I'm sure I haven't the faintest idea. yes!" the office-seeker exclaimed. "Well. You never hear of one but he's dying. the bell rang. the octogenarian.* * * One of the two girls in the subway was glancing at a newspaper. And Doctor Smith. is dead." was the firm answer: "she'll never start. never heard of him neither. the train moved slowly at first." * * * The aged caretaker of the Episcopal church confided to a crony that he was uncertain as to just what he was: "I used to be the janitor. "Why. and shook his head. "She'll never start. The husband looked the engine over very carefully. the locomotive puffed. years ago. Lord. and for the first time in their lives beheld a train of cars. then faster." And then he added sadly: "An' that's all the good it done me. father?" asked the old lady." "Nor _Huck Finn_?" "Nope." the other girl replied. "But they're an awful sickly lot." "Nor _Puddin'head Wilson_?" "Oh." she remarked presently to her companion." OBSTINACY The old mountaineer and his wife arrived at a railway station. "I see. Then we had a parson who named me the sextant. I voted for him. never heard of him. which was standing there. "What? Never heard of _Tom Sawyer_?" "Nope. So and so. what do you think of it. he called me a virgin. And our young man." * * * A story is told of an office-seeker in Washington who asserted to an inquirer that he had never heard of Mark Twain. "that Mr. It was disappearing in the distance when the wife inquired slyly: . he says I'm the sacrilege.
ain't I shaved?" the private exclaimed. The great pugilist pushed back his plate. why haven't you shaved this morning?" "Why. He was a genuine optimist." Then. too. Thus. what do you think of it now?" The old man shook his head more violently than before. pa. When the waiter served one with a claw missing. "There was a dozen of us usin' the same bit of lookin' glass. "and bring me the winner. now." he commanded. "And I want to know the reason why." * * * The optimist fell from the top story of a skyscraper. so good!" ORIENTATION . As he passed the fourth story. "No. he was overheard muttering: "So far." "Well. an' I swan I must have shaved somebody else. after tramping the three miles from home to begin the day's work on the ditch. apparently greatly surprised." Jenkins suggested. "She'll never stop. because I left my teeth at home." OPTICAL ILLUSION The sergeant rebuked the private angrily: "Jenkins. "Carry him off. you ain't." he asserted. he discovered that he had been careless." the sergeant snapped. suddenly he beamed happily. he protested. and explained to a fellow laborer: "I've gone and done it now! I left my lunch at home. as he added: "And it's a good thing I did. "she'll never stop!" OMEN The great pugilist was superstitious and fond of lobster. for the matter of that. I guess it must be this way." OPTIMISM The day laborer was of a cheerful disposition that naturally inclined to seek out the good in every situation."Well. The waiter explained that this lobster had been worsted in a fight with another in the kitchen.
it's yerself. Sandy! Something fell off--I heard it splash!" Sandy climbed down from the saddle. clutching the tail: "It waur the horse's head as fell off--nothin' left but the mane!" "Gie me the mane. "It can't be me--here I am. At last. he seized on the laird. Sandy. then cried out. added: "But if it is me. as fell oof!" "No. Gough was fond of telling of a laird and his servant Sandy. Sandy! It's gaein' the wrang way!" OUTWORN Tiny Clara heard her mother say that a neighboring lady had a new baby." So. The two were on their way home on horseback late at night. presently. In the dark. mon." the master ordered. "Why. when he had the tail firmly grasped in both hands. He scrambled up. the laird fell head first into the creek. "I must een hae something to hold on. The tot puzzled over the matter." * * * Two friends from Ireland on a tour occupied the same bedchamber in a . and stay quietly in their seats till everyone else has gone out.John B. the rider was faced the wrong way to." the master declared stoutly. get me back on the horse. then. and. the laird shouted in dismay: "Haud on. At a ford where the bank was steep. "Gie me the reins. and Sandy had mounted." the laird directed stolidly. Whereat. with groping hands. what is she going to do with her old one?" PARADOX The amiable old lady was overheard talking to herself as she left the church along with the crowd that had attended the services: "If everybody else would only do as I do. and shouted to his servant: "Hold on. and at last sought additional information: "Oh. and both were much muddled by drink. mumsy." Then he. and waded about blindly in the shallow water. and boosted him up astride. Sandy felt about the horse's rump. the procession began to move. there would not be such a crush at the doors." Sandy helped the laird to the horse.
malaria. John spoke of it in the morning while the two men were dressing. I never heard the like. 137. even enthusiastically. 2 times. made pastoral calls. nervous prostration and bodily distress that utterly unfitted him for public preaching. 104 times. however. wrote 3120 pages of sermons. after a first visit to London. Sure. lost. There was. sung hymns that nobody else knew. had the headache Sabbath mornings. or stolen. instructed the choir in regard to the selection of tunes. started the tune in prayer meeting. delivered 17 lectures. sore throat. as compiled by a young curate: "Preached 104 sermons. 104 times. "It was a deluge. of which all but 27 were on matters most nearly touching the vital religious concerns of the church. dismissed by letter. 1 time. picnics attended. solemnized 21 hymeneal ceremonies. During an examination in general history. "Rain!" John exclaimed. "Why didn't yez waken me? Didn't yez know I never can slape whin it thunders!" PASTORAL Burdette quotes as follows a year's statistics of parochial work. 37 times. 312 times. During the night a fearful storm raged. 312.country inn. 104 times. dinners. 3. and so was compelled to appear in a condition of physical pain. distributed 804 tracts. declined invitations to tea. for at the end he cried out proudly: "But. sat on the platform at temperance and other public meetings 47 times. no weakening in his local loyalty. he was asked: "Who was the first man?" He answered proudly. read 748 hymns. without any hesitation: "George Washington. 2 times. 104 times. first in peace. had severe cold. Peebles. although he may have been weak on history. of which 16 were on secular and all the rest on religious subjects. 16. 37. expelled. started the wrong tune. took tea on such occasions." "For the love of Hivvin!" Dennis cried out. 10. 149 of which were very long ones. gi'e me Peebles!" * * * There is no doubting the strong patriotism of the schoolboy who is the hero of this tale. 18 mortuary discourses. first in war. and the lightnin' was blindin' and the thunder was deafenin'. suffered from attacks of malignant dyspepsia. for real pleasure. made 39 addresses. received into church membership." PATRIOTISM The Scotchman returned to his native town. first in the . 2 times. visited the sick several times. read aloud in church 156 chapters of the Bible. "Did it rain?" Dennis asked in surprise. 1 time. He told the neighbors enthusiastically of his many wonderful experiences in the metropolis. 49. strayed.
"But if I ever love a country agin." the head of the family explained. who had witnessed the incident." . could he. rode up. and the bureau advised to claimant to this effect. when at last they were lined up for inspection before a general. directing him to state: "which leg was injured by the alleged kick of a vicious horse. etc. Now. "Oh!" he retorted. he burst forth: "I guess he couldn't knock any brains out of you. John Smith. round-eyed with excitement. "that I stepped in between them." * * * The troops had been marching through a sea of mud for hours." The boy sniffed disgustedly." was the disgusted reply. from which he emerged in a dreadful state. shouting." Little Johnnie had been listening. "Naw. a young cavalryman who had enlisted was thrown from his horse into the muck. based his application for succor upon an "injury to leg due to the kick of a vicious horse" in the service and line of duty. The exact wording was as follows: "Thou are at rest. pa?" PENSION The usual details in administration of the pension laws are not amusing. In the evolution. This was formally insufficient. until we meet again.hearts----" But the teacher interrupted ruthlessly: "Wrong! Adam was the first man." PEACEMAKER The father was telling at the table of a row between two men in which he had interfered. One had swung a shovel aloft. The general himself.423. "I'll knock your brains out!" "It was at this moment. though uninjured except in his feelings. claimant under Invalid Original No. but occasionally even here a bit of humor creeps in to relieve the tedium. and preserving his gravity with some effort inquired of the trooper if he had suffered any hurt from the fall. "I didn't know you were talking about foreigners. you can kick _me_!" PEACE The mourning widow caused a tender sentiment to be chiseled on the headstone of her husband's grave. 98. Thus.325.
But now lately. It used to be I could walk around the block every morning." the old lady corrected." PHONETICS Little Willie questioned his grandmother with an appearance of great seriousness: "Ain't Rotterdam the name of a city. "Oh. when I'm only half way round." he declared." * * * The visitor remarked affably to the man of the house: "Your family is wonderfully talented. aren't you?" "Yes. somehow." remarked one lady to another in a suburban town. "I am a pessimist. I feel so tired I have to turn and come back. Willie. Why?" . and the next day Wednesday--the whole week half gone. As the father of such musical geniuses.The reply came promptly: "My leg!" PESSIMISM The energetic New England woman addressed her hired girl in a discouraged tone: "Here it is Monday morning and to-morrow will be Tuesday. Rotterdam is the name of a city. Mrs. two daughters play the piano and the guitar." was the answer. you must be something yourself. "Yes. and nothing done yit!" * * * The old man shook his head dolefully in response to an inquiry concerning his health." PHILANTHROPY "I hear that Mrs. "Why does she keep such a number of them then?" was the pertinent inquiry. and the other children play ukuleles. and your wife plays the banjo. Brewster tells everyone she regards it as her solemn duty to employ as many as possible when times are so hard. "I find my strength is failing. "It isn't what it ought to be. Brewster hasn't paid her servants any wages for a number of months. One son plays the cornet. Gramma?" "Don't say 'ain't'.
I eat with my mouth organ. No. An' at las'. is it Gramma?" "Don't say 'ain't'. Willie. de 'possum done come out of his hole." PLAYING POSSUM "No. who spoke as follows: "I see with my eye organ. Once on a time." The plumber snorted indignantly. and the like. including the eye as the organ of sight. an' we might go to the movies." PLAIN SPEAKING The new maid was talkative. Then she asked the pupils to repeat to her what they had learned. but any diversion was welcome to speed the hours for which he drew pay." the ancient negro asserted. all told eggzactly what I thought of them. suh. she'll Rotterdam head off. with a melancholy shaking of his bald head. and said coyly: "Thursday is my evenin' off. it isn't swearing to say Rotterdam. suh. I done watched de hole of a 'possum all night long. The cook was plain-featured." PHYSIOLOGY The teacher explained to her young pupils some facts concerning various organs of the body. an' when he done come out. There was a short silence. which was broken by a bright little boy."It ain't swearin' to say it. I hear with my ear organ. all told. and related some of her experiences in service. Why?" "Cause if sister keeps on eatin' so much candy. "dar hain't no trustin' a 'possum. He made a strong impression on the cook. An' what yoh t'ink de ole scallywog done did? Well. she simpered." was the lady's comment as the girl paused. all told?" "Fifteen. "On me own time?" . suh. and I feel with my hand organ. "How many different mistresses have you had. he done come out. "yes mum." the maid declared promptly. suh. and when he took his departure. the ear as the organ of hearing. "You seem to have had a good many situations. he was a polecat!" PLUMBER The plumber at many dollars a day could afford a little persiflage with the cook in the kitchen where he was theoretically repairing the sink. "What!" he demanded. I smell with my nose organ.
" quoth Tommy. with a certain smug satisfaction in his own democratic hospitality: "I imagine that. during all the time you were a slave. Georgia. counted aloud his vest buttons ." POKER Tommy Atkins and a doughboy sat in a poker game together somewhere in France. In due time after their return to Boston. but not too well. mum. She crossed the aisle to devote herself to a dignified fat man. Presently. who leads sickly life. they became fond of an old colored woman. The Britisher held a full house. The Yankee did not hesitate. mum. "I ain't exactly onto your currency curves. and is going from bad to verse every day. One day at dinner. and. your master never invited you to eat at his table. but firmly: "It may seem like a very small piece of meat to you. She asked innumerable questions. the host remarked. the American four of a kind. incidentally. but I'll bump it up four tons. the visitor was entertained. she remarked to the keeper: "Isn't that a very small piece of meat to give to the lions?" The man answered very respectfully." POINT OF VIEW A couple from Boston spent a winter in Augusta." "No. During the period of their visit. to his great annoyance." POLITENESS The little girl in the car was a pest. "My master was a genl'man. who leads sickly life. He never let no nigger set at table 'long side o' him.POETRY The evil effects of decadent verse is unintentionally told in the following extract from a Hindu's letter to the authorities requesting aid in behalf of his invalid father. suh." replied the old darky. Every courtesy was extended to the old colored woman. for an extract from the petition calls on the government "to look after my old faher." * * * The kindly old lady chanced to be present at the feeding of the lions in the zoo. and even invited her to visit their home at their expense. and she even had her meals with the host and hostess. and is going from bad to perhaps. but it seems like a big piece of meat to the lions. dat he didn't. "I raise you two pounds.
' I ate everything there was. "Yes. ladies should come first. the following sentence: "The horse and cow is in the pasture." . * * * Johnny. Johnnie shook his head seriously. and to speak in complimentary terms of the food served him." A manly little fellow raised his hand. for correction by the class." He was greatly disconcerted to observe that his remark caused a frown on the face of his hostess. poor man." * * * On Johnnie's return from the birthday party.to learn whether he was rich man." when anything was offered him. his mother expressed the hope that he had behaved politely at the luncheon table." the beaming mother replied. was carefully admonished by his mother to remember his manners. 'No. He hastened to speak again in an effort to correct any bad impression from his previous speech: "And there's plenty of it--such as it is. "I guess I didn't say. The fat man leaned forward and addressed the lady very courteously: "Madam. and at the teacher's nod said: "Please. thank you. He heeded the instruction. After he had tasted the soup. and properly said. if you please" and "No. beggar man or thief. who was to be the guest at a neighbor's for the noonday meal. what do you call this dear little child?" "Ethel. he remarked as boldly as he could contrive: "This is pretty good soup--what there is of it." * * * The teacher used as an illustration of bad grammar." * * * The man sitting in the street car addressed the woman standing before him: "You must excuse my not giving you my seat--I'm a member of the Sit Still Club. "Please call her then. and did the best he could under stress of embarrassment. The mother regarded the child's efforts as highly entertaining. thank you." the fat man requested. sir.
"you must wait until you're a little older. "I guess." he mumbled. and she'll give your message to Margery. and then shook his head. Ma'am. That the postman. I'm thinkin'?" PRAISE One negro workman was overheard talking to another: "I'se yoh frien'. aroused from his absorption in political news and comment on the campaign. and they were both very well. an' tole him yoh shohly is!" PRAYER ." the woman replied." he answered decisively. Daddy." She proved it so well that the man at last sheepishly got to his feet. and the children are happy." POSTAL It is human nature to take an interest in the affairs of others. suh. "Ah don't edzakly know. I seem to have lost your postcard. That'll be your other daughter."Certainly. "No." The father. why. "but I opine 'bout a hundred an' twenty-five thousan'. when he say dat nigger Sam ain't fit to feed to de dawgs. "And please excuse my staring--I belong to the Stand and Stare Club. is likely to be well informed is shown in a quotation by _Punch_ of a local letter-carrier's apology to a lady on his round: "I'm sorry. You're too young to understand politics. sir. countin' de whites." was the reply. but it only said Muriel thanked you for the parcel and so did John. ma'am. "Please. regarded his son thoughtfully for a moment." POPULATION Someone asked a darky from Richmond who was visiting in the North as to the population of the city. I jest tole the fohman. "I'll resign from my club and join yours. I done spoke right up. tell me the story about the Forty Thieves." POLITICS The little boy interrupted his father's reading of the paper with a petition. my son. too. The fact has been amply demonstrated by innumerable postmasters and postmistresses who have profited from their contact with the communities' correspondence.
and asked advice. he shuddered slightly. It cannot be doubted that he was profoundly impressed by the excitement on the gridiron. for two wives in succession yielded to the trying climate and died. as the boat drew in. and with squint--for the third time!--and after all my prayers!" * * * Charles had attained the age of five when he attended a football game for the first time. of course. and he wrote for a third." * * * The New York Sun published the following: The toys had been reluctantly laid aside and in her dainty nightie the little girl. When due time had elapsed. and a groan burst from his lips. though well intentioned. the wife asked demurely: "What did you use to open that can. he stood on the dock anxiously waiting. knelt at her mother's knee. sounded ambiguous: "All you should do vill pe youst to bray for him. for at bedtime his mother was horrified to hear him utter his nightly prayer thus: "God bless papa! God bless mama! God bless Charlie! Rah! Rah! Rah!" * * * At the request of his wife." the husband grunted. it was easy for him to select the one destined for him. and was a churchwarden. Jim?" "Can-opener." * * * A Scotch missionary in the Far East suffered ill fortune in his marriages. scarcely more than a baby. . "and red headed. he journeyed to the seaport to meet the steamer by which his new mate should arrive. "Freckles. When he finally reappeared. At sight of her. At the appointed hour. the husband opened a can of peaches. When the rector complained that a certain parishioner had called him a perfect ass." * * * The newspaper report of the special Sunday services contained the following impressive description of the prayer: "The most eloquent prayer ever addressed to a Boston audience. "What d'ye think I opened it with?" "From the language I heard." he muttered despairingly. the reply. as usual. although he had been in the country forty years. Among the few passengers to descend the gangplank.The Dutchman still retained a strong accent. The missionary had depended on the Board at home to select his previous mates. I thought perhaps you were opening it with prayer.
were reverently closed. and as she haltingly uttered the words of the old. bringing her sons and daughters to the glory of God. the Queen. If you can't send us a Bishop. Strengthen her with Thy blessing that she may live a pure virgin. The rest of us will put on life-belts. I do. eyes dancing. On being questioned as to the nature of his prayer. and exclaimed: "Now let's say 'Little Jack Horner sat in the corner." he declared. "That's all right then.'" * * * A prayer showing a ghastly confusion of metaphors is on record as having been offered extemporaneously in behalf of Queen Adelaide during the reign of that sovereign. With a fervent "Amen" she ended her supplication. the skipper lifted his voice to ask: "Does anybody know how to pray?" One man spoke confidently in answer: "Yes.The eyes. and he answered that he always did. And give her grace that she may go before her people like a he-goat upon the mountains. save thy servant. send us a Stationary ." * * * A little boy was asked if he prayed when he attended church. she may become a new man. He concluded his appeal as follows: "Send us a Bishop to preach. and he added further: "I just say the little prayer mother taught me--'Now I lay me down to sleep. raised occasionally from her dimpled hands. "You go ahead and pray. Muvver. send us a Sliding Elder. Captain. which all day long are alight with mischief. took on an expression almost seraphic in its innocent purity. Grant that as she grows an old woman.' I knows it better. If you can't send a Sliding Elder. he explained that he always repeated it when the others in the congregation made their silent prayer just before the sermon. then jumped up." The captain nodded. wrote to the bishop to explain the need of a minister for the church. our Sovereign Lady. yet ever young child's prayer her rapt face. They're one short." * * * As the boat was sinking. The words as quoted were these: "O Lord." PREACHER A colored deacon who was the leader in a congregation down South.
Jakey started nervously." said the critic. "My little three-year-old boy got at my new play.Preacher. If you can't spare him. "love." PREPAREDNESS The small boy was directed to soak his feet in salt water to toughen them. send us a Locust Preacher. "Sh!" he whispered. and sat down in the same seat." he announced. He considered the matter thoughtfully. six and three-quarter inches. and tore it all to pieces. honor and obey" were spoken. I guess I'd better sit . "I've had a terrible misfortune. PREMATURENESS Ikey saw his friend Jakey in the smoking-car when he entered. suh! read it once moh. Jakey?" he inquired." * * * The lawyer for the defense. "It vas next week. the bridegroom interrupted: "Read that again. how far the victim was thrown by the impact. "You seem to be very exact in your figures. and the words. and then remarked to himself: "It's pretty near time for me to ket a lickin'. "and I measured the distance. "Fifteen feet. "How does that happen?" "I guessed some fool lawyer would ask me. in the damage suit." PRECAUTION When the colored couple were being married by the clergyman." exclaimed the lawyer sarcastically. I'se been married befoh. so's de lady kin ketch de full solemnity ob de meanin'." was the instant response. send us an Exhauster. "How was that fire in your place last week. If you can't spare him." the witness answered. send us a Circus Eider. asked the witness who had seen the plaintive struck by the automobile." "Extraordinary that a child so young should be able to read." PRECOCITY The playwright rushed up to the critic at the club. And if you can't send a Locust Preacher.
Mrs. "It looks as if it might rain before morning. * * * The father entered the room where Clara. Mrs. O'Rafferty--Yis. concealing her astonishment. Mrs. O'Rafferty (hissing viciously between her teeth)--No! Oi'm savin' oop the foine. his daughter. my!" he exclaimed. I hear yez be worrukin' noight an' day. and grandma has gas on her stomach.'" . popper?" the young lady inquired. "Ain't we a wonderful family! Mama has electricity on her head. "Oh. dear?" the mother inquired. "What is it." he explained. an' the Judge tould me as if Oi touched her again he'd foine me tin dollars. Her father held out the umbrella which he carried. The boy quoted glibly and sincerely. Missus O'Rafferty." PRIDE The little boy was greatly elated when informed by his mother that the liveliness of her hair as she combed it was caused by electricity." * * * The two scrub women met and chattered to this effect: Mrs." "And what did he say." * * * Pride often has no better basis in fact than the self-congratulation of little Raymond in the following story: Raymond came home from a session of the Sunday School fairly swollen with importance.in it. "He said. Riley--Och. Riley--An' yez is worrukin' so hard so's to kape outen mischief. He explained the cause to his mother. 'O Lord. Oi'm under bonds to kape the pace for pullin' the hair o' that blaggard Missus Murphy. "This is for John. "The superintendent said something awful nice about me this morning in his prayer. was entertaining her young man. we thank thee for our food and Raymond.
when he saw the dealer give himself four aces from the bottom of the deck. "Wasn't it his deal?" PROCRASTINATION The Southern darky is usually willing enough. Jones?" PRISON REFORM The society matron explained the necessity for immediate reform in conditions at the State Penitentiary: "Nowadays. The foreman of a quarry called to Zeb. Little eight-year-old Willie Jones opened the door. you Zeb! Where've you been all this time?" The darky grinned placatingly." PRIVILEGE The tenderfoot in the mining town was watching a poker game for heavy stakes. and directed him to go across the road to the blacksmith shop and bring back a drill which had been left there for sharpening. Zeb shuffled out of sight. The indignant foreman called to him sharply: "Here. boss. which he interpreted in a burst of language that shocked the lady passing by. as she demanded: "My man. but painfully dilatory in accomplishment. the general utility man. She regarded him reprovingly. "Is Mr. shuffled back lazily into view. Jones. Little Willie answered with formal politeness: "I'm Mr. where did you learn such awful language?" "Where did I learn it?" the longshoreman repeated. The latter looked astonished. Jones in?" the caller inquired. "Why. He whispered the fact in shocked surprise to a citizen beside him. "I hain't been--I'se gwine!" PROFANITY The longshoreman was indulging in a fit of temper. "What of it?" he drawled." he explained. and after a lapse of half an hour.PRECOCIOUSNESS A stranger rang the door-bell. Or did you wish to see old Mr. there are such a number of our very best people who are being indicted and tried and convicted and sent to serve their sentences in the prison that we really must make their surroundings there more pleasant and elegant. "Huh! I didn't learn .
it's quite unnecessary--er." "Really. and so forth." "But it is badly soiled. you know." "Well. Girls who sent the money received the following directions: "Soak the hands three times a day in dish water while mother rests." "Oh." was the reply. When he returned to the shop a few hours later. but of course in our position. if they like. pigs. where does your profit come in?" Shopkeeper: "That comes from repairing them. of course. "we have all the usual animals--horses." * * * Customer: "But if it costs twenty dollars to make these watches. "Then you'll have fresh eggs. That's where it hit the ground. "Absolutely. cows. I'm not sure." * * * The advertisement offered for fifty cents a recipe by which to whiten the hands and soften them. and you sell them for twenty dollars. "And. it's a gift." she vouchsafed. when it fell out of the tree. yes. perhaps not quite suitable. It was just next to red hot. The hens can work." PROFITEERS The wife of the profiteer discoursed largely on the luxuries of the new country estate." * * * The deacon carried a chain to the blacksmith to have a link welded. hens. hens!" the listener gushed. On . "I shot that crocodile myself." PROGRESS The cottager was crippled by rheumatism. and put him through the primer and into the Bible. and the kindly clergyman taught him his letters. of course. and the deacon dropped it with the ejaculation: "Hell!" Then he added hastily: "I like to have said." * * * "Are you sure this handbag is genuine crocodile skin?" the woman asked the shopkeeper. he saw the chain lying on the floor. sheep.it. and picked it up.
"How do you make that out?" "Well." The physician nodded. he met the old man's wife. crippled with rheumatism. "When he's sobered off. was at great pains to teach an illiterate old man. . "he's out of the Bible and into the newspaper long ago. The patient. "And how is Thomas making out with reading his Bible?" "Bless you. newly come to the parish. smiling complacently. his letters so that he could read the Bible." PROHIBITION The objector to prohibition spoke bitterly: "Water has killed more folks than liquor ever did. I'll have him take me out and show me where he got it. protested: "But the other time when I came to see you." PROLIFIC The woman teacher in a New York School was interested in the announcement by a little girl pupil that she had a new baby brother." * * * The kindly clergyman. On the clergyman's return after a short absence from the parish." declared the defender of the Eighteenth Amendment. "Oh. bless your reverence. you insisted I must eat only a very light supper in the evening. of course--that shows what great progress the science of medicine is making." she replied proudly." * * * The wife complained to her husband that the chauffeur was very drunk indeed. to begin with. sir." "You are raving.his return after a vacation." * * * The physician advised his patient to eat a hearty dinner at night. the clergyman met the cottager's wife. and must be discharged instantly. "Yes. "Discharged--nothing!" the husband retorted joyously. "How does John get along with his reading of the Bible?" he asked." the wife declared proudly. there was the Flood. "'e's out of the Bible and into the newspaper long ago. without any worry over the ability to digest it. however.
"Aaron?" she repeated. "Your baby brother. And strange. miss." "No. I don't see no change in 'em since I was a child like?" The parson's daughter was duly impressed." PRONUNCIATION The parson's daughter spoke pleasantly. "I've been oop at Noocaste a-visitin' my old 'aunts." the man answered. "That was a mistake. they found we had an Aaron. thank you. ma'am. I haven't noticed you in church for the last few weeks. to one of her father's humble parishioners: "Good morning. but the little girl regarded her in perplexity." the teacher prompted."And what is the baby's name?" the teacher asked. I said 'awnts'--'aunts where I used to wander in my childhood days like." was the answer. Pa an' ma. Understanding dawned on the child's face. He's very well. "Oh. Aaron!" she exclaimed. I laid them eggs there myself." PROOF _Shopper:_--"Are these eggs fresh?" _Apprentice:_--"Yes. "What wonderful old ladies they must be!" But the man shook his head." _Shopper:_--"How long since they were laid?" _Apprentice:_--"'Tain't ten minutes. ain't it. A few days later. miss. but with a hint of rebuke. "Aaron. Giles. the teacher inquired concerning Aaron." PROPERTY The indignant householder held up before the policeman the dead cat that had been lying by the curb three days. ma'am--I know. miss. and explained with remarkable clearness: "I didn't say 'arnts'. "What am I to do with this?" he demanded. . ma'am. they be. It's Moses.
The evening was hardly half spent when Sandy got to his feet." PROVIDENCE The _babu_ explained with great politeness the complete failure of a young American member of the shooting party in India to bag any game: "The sahib shot divinely but it is true that Providence was all merciful to the birds. much concerned." * * * The little boy dashed wildly around the corner. Sandy. "If nobody claims it within a reasonable time. and a woman's voice asked if he intended to go motoring that afternoon. when he received a telephone call. mon." came the voice over the wire."Take it to headquarters. after writing to the mother of a refractory pupil. "I gotta git home fer maw to spank me. with the evenin' just started?" "Nay. The host came bustling up. and made the round of his fellow guests. "No." he protested. received this note in reply: "Dear miss." PRUDENCE Sandy MacTavish was a guest at a christening party in the home of a fellow Scot whose hospitality was limited only by the capacity of the company. "Ye're nae goin' yet. and collided with the benevolent old gentleman." he replied. not this afternoon." PUNISHMENT The school teacher. who was notorious for the reckless driving of his car. "I'm no' goin' yet." * * * The young man. was at his home in the country." declared the prudent MacTavish. bidding each of them a very affectionate farewell. "It's only that I wish to send my little girl down the street on an errand. ." was the serene reply. But I'm tellin' ye good-night while I know ye all. it's your property. who inquired the cause of such haste. "But. "But why do you ask? Who are you?" "That doesn't matter. you writ me about whippin my boy i hereby give you permission to lick him eny time it is necessary to lern him lessuns hes jist like his paw you have to lern him with a club please pound nolej into him i want him to git it don't pay no attenshun to his paw either i'll handle him." the boy panted.
"Ten dollars or ten days. The boy explained between howls that his father had given him a licking. On one occasion. and the man made a bolt for the door. after fining the prisoner another ten dollars. and found this fellow alone at the rail. but he added explicit information as to his opinion of the judge. two actors entered the bar. The sympathizer attempted consolation: "But you must be a little man. The judge. admonished him severely. But if I don't git there 'fore paw. They invited him to drink. "with the accent on the 'auto'." said the magistrate." "I ain't."Bless my soul!" exclaimed the old gentleman. he'll gimme the lickin'. he paid the fine. and not cry about it." was the answer." * * * A member of the Lambs' Club had a reputation for lack of hospitality in the matter of buying drinks for others. "No. "I'll take the ten dollars. "Locke Smith. only to be caught and brought back a second time." his friend corrected. He was seized by an officer and hauled back. he announced proudly: "I'm writing my autobiography. as he accepted." announced the prisoner." . Finally. "I can't understand your being in such a hurry to be spanked." * * * The little lad sat on the curb howling lustily. and to explain: "Huh! my paw ain't like other boys' paws. Then he leaped for the door again. A passer-by halted to ask what was the matter. you would not have been chased and refined. He plays the bass drum in the band!" PUNS "What is your name?" demanded the judge of the prisoner in the Municipal Court." The lad ceased howling long enough to snort contemptuously." "With the accent on the 'bi'?" One of the newcomers suggested sarcastically. in these words: "If your language had been more chaste and refined. All fathers have to punish their children sometimes. and.
and the diplomat was introduced to the American. Choate was ambassador to the Court of St." The diplomat indignantly went to the host and explained that a servant had insulted him. as he stood near the door. "The answer. He pointed to Choate. so bossy. he was present at a function where his plain evening dress contrasted sharply with the uniforms of the other men. The inventor of the puzzle beamed. sir. And as he went. obviously taking him for a servant." PUZZLE The humorist offered his latest invention in the way of a puzzle to the assembly of guests in the drawing-room: "Can you name an animal that has eyes and cannot see. he muttered softly: "So." Choate answered affably: "You're a cab. Explanations ensued.* * * The stallion that had been driven in from the plains was a magnificent creature. and legs and cannot walk. "is a wooden horse. to whom he apologized. an Austrian diplomat approach him. At a late hour. "But how does it jump as high as the Woolworth Building?" "The Woolworth Building. they gave it up and demanded the solution." QUARRELSOME . and racked in vain." The stallion stood quietly and allowed the halter to be slipped over his head without offering any resistance. "If you had been better-looking. I'd have called you a hansom cab. "That's all right. * * * When Mr. Finally. bossy." he said. smiling. The horse was cowed." the humorist explained. and said: "Call me a cab. "can't jump. but so fierce that no man dared approach closely." "Yes. It has eyes and cannot see." the company agreed. Then the amiable lunatic appeared on the scene. so bossy. legs and cannot walk. James. and went toward the dangerous beast. He took a halter. but can jump as high as the Woolworth Building?" Everybody racked his brains during a period of deep silence." declared Choate.
and he repeated his call in a peremptory tone. the engineer overtook a country boy riding his horse along the road bed." the lady agreed. mum. One of the members presented a question as to why a ground-squirrel in digging left no dirt around the entrance to its hole. I just couldn't stand the way the master and the mistress was always quarreling. "But how does the squirrel manage to reach the bottom?" "That. "they was at it all the time. The engineer whistled. why dont ye git offen the track?" The fleeting boy screamed an answer: "No." RECOGNITION The office telephone was out of order. the engineer leaned from the cab window and shouted: "You dum fool. and on the first run over the line. he suggested to the gentleman occupying the office the calling up of some one over the wire in order to test the working of the instrument." "That must have been unpleasant. The train was forced to a crawl with the cowcatcher fairly nipping at the horse's heels. it was me an' her. A bolt of lightning hit the telephone wires." said the other with a grin. "Maria!" and again "Maria!" There followed a few seconds of waiting. "is your question.The applicant for the position of cook explained to the lady why she had left her last place: "To tell the truth. Finally. "Excellent!" a listener laughed." RAILROAD A railroad was opened through a remote region." the cook declared. The gentleman obligingly called for the number of his own home in the suburbs. The gentleman was hurled violently . When it wasn't me an' him. "Maria!" The electric storm that had been gathering broke at this moment. sirree! Ye'd ketch me in a jiffy on thet-thar ploughed ground. He was finally called on for the answer. "Yis. When the connection was made. and explained that of course the squirrel began at the bottom and dug upward. and the boy whipped. An employee of the company was sent to make repairs." QUESTIONS It was a rule of the club that anyone asking a question which he himself could not answer must pay a fine. he called into the transmitter: "Maria!" and after a pause. mum. After a period of labor.
kitty. and mumbled his response in a tone tinged with bitterness: "It looks as though the Lawd done ruint me. she offered the following. kitty. "The telephone works fine. ma'am. and regarded the repair man plaintively. kitty. kitty. kitty. When the elder was receiving testimonies from the mourners' bench. and she deemed it a fitting time to rebuke him for his notorious idleness. He was converted at a camp meeting. and was duly excused: "I lost my kitty. kitty. and I went out and called. kitty. "won't you tell the congregation now what the Lord has done for you?" Abe got to his feet awkwardly. kitty. the Devil a monk would be: When the Devil was well. kitty. kitty. "'Rastus. he crawled forth in a dazed condition. Come. kitty. She'll wuk jes' as hard as if I was dah. the devil a monk was he." replied the old darky earnestly." RESIGNATION .under his desk. "do you think it's right to leave your wife hard at work over the washtub while you pass your time fishing?" "Yassum." REPETITION The little girl had been naughty in school. kitty. she was directed by the teacher to remain in her seat after the session until she had written an original composition containing not less than fifty words." REFORM Abe Jones was a colored man who made a living by chicken-stealing. he at last called on Abe: "Brother. kitty. kitty. "It's all right." RELIABILITY The Southern lady saw old 'Rastus setting out with his fishing tackle for a day on the river. kitty. Mah wife don' need any watchin'. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. By way of punishment. kitty. Presently. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty." he exhorted. In a surprisingly short space of time. kitty." she said severely. kitty. since she and everybody else knew that the entire family was supported by the industry of 'Rastus' old wife as a washerwoman. "That's her!" he declared. kitty." REPENTANCE "When the Devil was sick. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty. kitty.
When. he had acquired some skill with a needle in his bachelor days.The physician. he showed her what he had done. It was explained that she was a Daughter of all two hundred and thirty-eight revolutions in her own country. and go to heaven." REWARD OF VIRTUE The little boy put a serious question to his mother: "Please." she announced happily. "A wicked man offered to give the young man twenty-five dollars if he . tell me: If I'm a good boy. Soon she left the room. Being a tidy man." REVOLUTION At a reception given by the Daughters of the Revolution in New York City appeared a woman from one of the Latin-American States. With the intention of administering a rebuke to his wife. The most interesting story submitted ran as follows: "A poor young man fell in love with the daughter of a rich lady who kept a candy store. hold on! What are you gittin' at? I ain't a-goin' to snuff out!" The wife interposed in a soothing voice: "You leave it to the doctor. he set to work on the skirt during her absence and sewed it up neatly. addressed the wife of the sick man in a tone of grave finality: "I am afraid your husband is beyond help. REWARD OF MERIT A very tidy young man was distressed by his wife's carelessness in attire at home. dearie--he knows best. she was touched and kissed him tenderly. He was especially annoyed by a torn skirt. will God give me a nice ickle devil to play with?" * * * The teacher directed the class to compose fiction narrative. which his wife was forever pinning and never mending. mama. afer an examination. "Don't hurry. on her return home. to return with an armful of garments. She wore a large number of decorations and insignia. "Here are some more for you. Just do them whenever you have time. darling." This candor was offensive to the patient. who protested with what violence was permitted by a very scanty breath: "Here. and I die. I can hold out no hope of his recovery. The poor young man could not marry the rich candy lady's daughter because he had not money enough to buy any furniture.
"So they be. to find him kissing the cook. who was sitting at ease on the bank of the stream. which were overrunning the mill dam.' "On his way home he found a pocketbook containing a million dollars in gold. man?" Amos spat tobacco juice emphatically. Get from behind me. "Shoot! Why don't you shoot." SAFETY FIRST "Come over here!" called a friend to an intoxicated citizen whom he saw across the street." * * * Amos Perkins was hired in the spring to shoot muskrats. "I am surprised!" The lexicographer regarded his wife disapprovingly. his gun safely out of reach. and the next day they had twins. . Noah. "Why. carried his exact knowledge as to the meaning of words into ordinary speech." RULING PASSION Noah Webster. The man addressed blinked and shook his head. "I hear the muskrats are undermining the dam. untrue--illustrates the point. A story told of him--which is." she exclaimed. The young man wanted the money very much. and rebuked her: "_You_ are astonished--_I_ am surprised. of course. Thus you see that Virtue has its own reward. so they be!" Amos agreed. "Hi! there goes one!" cried the visitor.would become a drunkard. "Why. the maker of the dictionary. He protested against the base trickery of his two companions on the trip. An acquaintance paused to chat one day with Amos." the acquaintance said. Noah's wife entered the kitchen. 'I will not become a drunkard even for twenty-five dollars. They had a beautiful wedding. it's all I can do to stay where I am. and answered: "Huh! think I want to lose my job?" * * * The disgruntled fisherman at the club lifted his voice and complained loudly. Satan. but when he got to the saloon he turned to the wicked man and said. so he could marry the rich candy lady's daughter. pointing. Then the young lady consented to marry him. "Come over there?" he called back.
of perfection in the domestic companionship that caused the obvious misprint in the following extract from a Scotch editorial concerning the new divorce legislation: "But the Bill creates new grounds for the dissolution of the marriage bond. "I take your word for it that it's solid silver." he retorted. both those fellows deliberately refused to pull in their lines when they had bites. that the one who caught the first fish must stand treat to a supper. a woman sued for divorce. A." SANITY It is a matter of uncommon knowledge that personal perfection is a most trying thing to live with. "Hunt a hole for yourself." * * * The woman hesitated over buying the silver service." he explained. "Of course. but somehow it doesn't look it. or habitual drunkenness are proposed as separate grounds of divorce. "Not on your life." "That was a mean trick. Now."It was agreed." she said. just so I'd be stuck." * * * A G." "A great advantage. "How much did the supper cost you?" The grouchy fisherman relaxed slightly. noting this display of cowardice." he explained." the shopkeeper declared suavely. In the United States recently. even the unendurableness. You see. "Oh. so that only his eyes were above the level of the ground. This belongs to me. It was probably a subtle subconscious realization of the unpleasantness. "it wasn't as bad as that. and with a threatening gesture of his sword. veteran told to some members of the American Legion the story of a private in the Civil War. alleging in the complaint against her husband that he had no faults. "That service can be left right out in plain sight. darted to the spot. you'd hardly believe it. incurable sanity. he put his thumb to his nose and waggled his fingers insultingly. Cruelty. I didn't have any bait on my hook." . "before we started." one of the auditors asserted sympathetically. ma'am. and no burglar will look at it twice. "get out of that hole!" But the skulker did not come out. who during the first battle of Bull Run found a post hole into which he lowered himself. An officer. but it's a fact that when we got to fishing. shouted fiercely. On the contrary. R. which are unknown to the law of Scotland.
As he stared at her. it rained yesterday. and shook his head doubtfully. sir." * * * The ponderous judge interrupted the eloquent lawyer harshly: "All you say goes in at one ear and out at the other. he brightened suddenly. that story is such a favorite of mine: the first time I heard it I laughed so hard that I kicked the foot-board off my crib. ma?" "What day of the week is it. indeed. and later a little suspicious. The following conversation was overheard in Rome between a mother and daughter: "Is this Rome. There were twenty-five passengers at the . who indulged in sprees during which he spent all his money. "Oh. puzzled. and was at first gratified by the hearty laughter of an old lady among the guests. the vessel ran into a nasty choppy sea. Matilda?" "Tuesday. and said: "It don't make a single mite of difference about the clocks. There was twenty minutes difference between the one in the office and the one in the waiting-room." SCHEDULE Cooks' tourists travel exactly according to schedule. you see. SAVING A servant. as her mirth continued." SEASICKNESS On the first morning of the voyage. which steadily grew worse. What of it?" "If it's Tuesday. Then. sir. it must be Rome. A week later. was advised by his master to save against a rainy day." * * * The man about to take a train was worried by the station clocks. The train goes at four-ten." "What is to prevent it?" was the retort. the master inquired if any saving had been accomplished. "But." the servant responded. he questioned a porter. That worthy made a careful survey of the two clocks. she spoke in explanation: "Oh. Finally. yes. no matter what.SARCASM The noted story-teller at a dinner party related an anecdote. and it all went.
You and I. my dear. I look upon these twenty-two smiling faces as a father upon his family. I adore you. and the movement of the waves seemed to be going on right inside the bride." * * * The wife of the seasick passenger was about to leave the stateroom for dinner. And now I ask that all fourteen of you join me in drinking to a merry trip. and I applaud the good fortune that brought these three persons to my table. O dear!" she gasped. In a fleeting moment of internal calm she murmured pathetically to the bridegroom in whose arms she was clasped: "Oh.captain's table for dinner. but it didn't--not a bit!" * * * The seasick voyager on the ocean bowed humbly over the rail and made libation to Neptune. haltingly given between groans. "I hoped that might help a little. I believe that we eight are most congenial." was the reply. and bring me the fish. are---." The soup appeared." * * * . "But I wish. shall I have the steward bring some dinner to you here?" "No. you would ask him to take it on deck and throw it over the rail for me. do you love me?" "My darling!" he affirmed. clear away all those dishes. for I am responsible for the safety of this group of seventeen. "O dear. Indeed." * * * The pair on their honeymoon were crossing the Channel. my precious oontsy-woontsy!" The boat reeled. The kindly old gentleman who stood near remarked sympathetically: "You have a weak stomach. and he continued: "I sincerely hope that this little assembly of twenty-four will thoroughly enjoy the voyage. and he addressed them in an amiable welcoming speech: "I hope that all twenty-five of you will have a pleasant trip. and a sickening pang thrilled through all the foundations of the bride's being. steward. Jimmy. "You know I love you with all my heart and soul--I worship you. Jimmy.Here. my dear sir." The victim paused in his distressing occupation to snort indignantly: "Weak? Humph! I guess I can throw as far as anybody on this ship. She inquired of her husband solicitously: "George.
The bishop. with an oath. travel will bring it out. and I am engaged on my duties as a bishop. Now.The moralizing gentleman at the club remarked ponderously: "If there is anything in a man. The highwayman insisted that the traveler be awakened. but somewhat prim and precise." "No. there has been a division between us. The driver explained to the robber that his only passenger was a man. "I want to go through his pockets!" he declared fiercely. "I have no money worth your attention. So. "Of what church?" "The Episcopal. The meal was hardly begun when . but secrecy was imperative. eh?" he said thoughtfully. and told of a lark that had caused excitement in Cambridge when she was a girl there. "You surely would not rob a poor bishop!" he exclaimed. Nevertheless. This was to the effect that two maidens of social standing were smuggled into the second-story room of a Harvard student for a gay supper. so I withdrew from communion with them. who was asleep inside. "I suppose you and your wife carry on your devotions together at home. "I found that our views on certain doctrines are not in harmony. to avoid scandal." "So." the clergyman continued. when aroused. made gentle protests. she relaxed slightly. larrup them mules!" * * * A Scotch Presbyterian clergyman tells the story of a parishioner who formed a secession with a few others unable to accept the doctrines of the church. The affair was wholly innocent." SECTARIAN Once upon a time a coach was held up by a road-agent. But when the clergyman asked this man if he and the others worshiped together. "A bishop." One who had just landed from a rough crossing agreed bitterly: "Especially ocean travel." The robber hesitated. when the company had been telling of college pranks. The fact is.. not exactly. she worships in the northeast corner of the room and I in the southwest." the man admitted. the answer was: "No. then.. I found that they accepted certain points to which I could not agree." SELF-BETRAYAL The old lady was very aristocratic. Driver." "The hell you are! That's the church I belong to! So long!.
you see. and at this critical point in the narrative she burst forth: "And I declare. sure!" SERMON The aged colored clergyman. Willie. The old lady had related the incident with increasing animation." Johnnie's mother said doubtfully. The second girl was then lowered. "And be sure to have lots of fun. but Johnnie was radiant. when de sun would get up an' shine in his face. an' at night when he went to bed he'd hang up de ha'ap on de limb ob a Peasel tree what grew on de outside o' de window." SHEEP AND GOATS The little girl was deeply impressed by the clergyman's sermon as to the separation of the sheep and the goats. came for a visit to Johnnie. "the rest of us. beaming. appeared somewhat downcast. the guest." The explanation of the words. he'd jump out o' bed. but the rope broke when the descent was hardly half completed. an' exclaim. 'Wake. Dis yere Sam was wrote by de prophet Moses. Moses was mighty fond o' playin' on de ha'ap all de day long. "Awake. was as follows: "Awake. I just knew I was going to be killed. an' in de mawnin'. Peasel Tree an' Ha'ap. Johnnie's mother directed him to take the visitor out to play with his boy friends in the neighborhood." she added. one of the girls was lowered to the ground from the window by a rope knotted under her arms. "Well. I myself will awake airly. Psaltery and Harp! I myself will awake right early. "And lots of fun?" "Oh. Silently. preached a sermon on the verse of the Psalm. Peasel Tree an' Ha'ap! I myself will awake airly!'" SCAPEGOAT Cousin Willie. "Did you have a good time?" his mother asked. we had our fun with Willie. aged twelve. when that rope broke. who made up in enthusiasm what he lacked in education. On the return of the boys. "Bully!" Johnnie answered. yes!" "But Willie doesn't look very happy. That night after she had gone to . aged ten.a thunderous knock of authority came on the door. The young men acted swiftly in the emergency." Johnnie answered. which preceded the exhortation.
and obviously lies. It was so huge that it shut out all the sky. Oh. "And then. They were good stories. "I know that. He refused at first. to ask what was the matter. "You're a sweet little lamb. "what I would have done if I had been in Napoleon's place?" "Certainly!" the wife snapped. mamma. But the following night Jenny was found crying again in her bed. and she slept. Mary. and when her mother appeared she wailed: "I'm afraid about the goats. "Do you know. But I'm afraid--awful afraid you're a goat!" SHIFTLESSNESS The shiftless man. Finally." the mother assured her weeping child. and all those left on board of her were drowned. however." Jenny. you would go straight to heaven. and let it run itself. He described the stress of the terrible situation with such power that his hearers were deeply impressed. who preferred reading to labor." she declared sadly. "a vast wave came hurtling down on us. and addressed his wife. "I'm so afraid I am a goat." Her words were successful in quieting the little girl. and continued her sobs." SHIPWRECK The new member of the club listened with solemn interest to the various stories that were told in the smoking room." he asked impressively. and the mother went to her. Under that dreadful blow the laboring vessel sank. "It's about the goats!" Jenny confessed at last. she was heard sobbing. "Yes." "But mother has told you that you are a little lamb. It crashed over the already sinking ship in a torrent of irresistible force. If you were to die to-night. and each of them was a bigger lie than any that had gone before. "You'd have settled right down on a farm in Corsica. closed the book on French history. but under pressure yielded. But presently someone asked: . after the last of the boats had been lowered. and gave a vivid account of a shipwreck at sea during one of his voyages. was by no means comforted. the company insisted that the new member should relate a tale." The narrator paused and there was a period of tense silence. which he had been perusing with great interest. and that you must never worry over being a goat." he concluded. I'm so afraid I'm a goat!" "My dear. He reached the point in his account where only the captain and himself and half a dozen others were left aboard the doomed vessel. and so I'll never go to heaven.bed.
"No." * * * . I didn't git mah freedom. whom he met in the road. suh. "And excuse me if I don't return the call." the old colored man answered. but she's sick to-day. "Myself. "Not perzactly." SLAVERY A traveler in the South chatted with an aged negro. "And I suppose you were once a slave?" he remarked. faltered in his reply. and a goat was brought in. who had called at his office. He sat judicially in his tent. The colonel fainted. "why I was drowned with the rest of them." he declared with great emphasis. after de war--I done got married!" SMELLS An argument arose among a number of British officers during their time of service in the Dardanelles. suh. regarded the pretty young stenographer with a baleful eye. But the ancient one shook his head sadly." the gentleman continued. at a loss. so. The husband." she vouchsafed. completed her call on a dweller in the tenement district. and rose to depart. but at last contrived: "Yes. who was a social worker. suh." SLANDER The business man's wife. After the officer had been revived. and wagers were made among them. The question at issue was as to which smells the louder. The goat fainted. and sent her grandchild in her place. SOCIAL UPLIFT The somewhat unpleasant person. you gained your freedom. and was deemed able to continue his duty as referee." she accused. suh. I've got no time to go slummin'. after the war." was the reply. I. "And. "You told me that your typewriter was an old maid. The unwilling hostess shook her head at the visitor's promise to come again."And you--what became of you?" "Oh. The colonel was made arbiter. a goat or a Turk. a Turk was brought into the tent. "Yes.
and be very careful to keep them clean. "Miss Bings wants the scissors!" SPEED In the business college. "Well. and that's the way the ladies talk when they come to see us. much amused. who listened shyly. This duty done. "mother said I must talk like a lady.The philanthropic hostess entertained a party of children from the slums at her home. "Yes. aspiring: "How many children have you?" "Six. The little one complied. you must not be impertinent." the lady declared." was the reproof. "I thought as much!" On the instant. ma'am. ma'am. Thomas." SPANKING Back in those days when corporal punishment was permitted to teachers. and whacked him in a most spirited manner." "Really." the child responded simply. "When you want him spanked again." the hostess answered. She urged the child to speak without embarrassment. Thomas came into the presence of Miss Manners. The teacher regarded him with suspicion. "Did you come from Miss Bings?" she asked sharply. "How unfortunate! You know you must keep out of debt." Thomas answered brokenly. she skillfully inverted the youngster over her lap. until she could spank him no more for physical fatigue. displaying an air that was downcast." "I'll try to. no. "What a big family! You must be sure to look after them properly. She addressed one particularly pretty and intelligent-looking little girl. "Has your husband got a job?" the girl demanded crisply. as the wailings of the boy died away. in surprise. send him to me. ma'am. that she had spanked one particular boy. the instructor addressed the new class concerning the merits of shorthand." Thomas admitted." Miss Manners said. certainly. Miss Manners. In his remarks. Next morning. "No. he included this statement: . a minor teacher named Miss Bings complained to one of her superiors." the hostess admitted. she demanded sternly: "And now what have you to say?" "Please.
We have had students who have written it in that length of time. _i_ double _u_." SPELLING Some time before Mr. double----" The clerk interrupted: "Please." "What?" Mr. Taft.' Had he been proficient in stenography. _e_ double _l_. the words sounded like: "This here are Swoovel Crick. without any particular interest. In the repetition. he was conveyed along the mountain roads in a buggy driven by a native of the region. the answer was: "This here are Swum-swum Crick." was the answer. So far as he could understand. "What sort of a plant is the Virginia creeper?" "That is not a plant. an' some spells it another way. given wearily. 'Elegy in a Country Churchyard. but in my jedgmint thar are no propeer way." * * * The clerk of the court directed the witness to spell his name. Taft demanded." The witness complied glibly: "_O_ double _t_. he took an extended trip in the mountains of West Virginia. some spells it one way. double _o_----" The clerk groaned. On one occasion. "it's a railroad. The man started his reply thus: "_O_ double _t_. Mr. The native spat tobacco juice reflectively over the wheel. _e_ double _l_." * * * The young lady interested in botany inquired of the gentleman who had been traveling in the South. double _u_." The questioner was so puzzled that he asked the mountaineer how the name of the Creek was spelled. inquired concerning the brook's name. he could have done it in seven minutes. _i_ double _u_. The judge himself intervened: "What is your name?" . As they came to a small stream."It is a matter of record that it took the poet Gray seven years to write his famous poem. Taft became President of the United States. and then spoke judicially: "Waal. double _u_. begin again.
" was the firm response." "What! So soon after burying your wife?" The faithful old employee smiled tolerantly." was the thoughtful reply. mammy. _i_ double _u_." SPORTSMANSHIP In the party out after reed birds was a tyro at the sport. missy?" "I don't know. telling how in the spring the . _e_ double _l_. I was never one to hold spite. A companion called to him sharply: "You're not going to shoot the bird while it's walking?" "No. The request was granted. "I'll wait till it stops. it is Ottiwell Wood. She died the other day. the request for a day off was repeated. mebbe." SPINSTERHOOD The old colored mammy took advantage of a wedding announcement to question her mistress." SPITE The faithful old employee asked for a day off. with an inquiry as to what he intended to do on his holiday." A note of sadness in the speaker's voice moved the old woman to attempt philosophical consolation: "Well. they do say as how ole maids am the happies' kind after they quits strugglin'. "I think. and took aim." A few weeks later. "And what are you going to do this time?" the employer asked. who remained a spinster still though approaching middle age. "I shall go to my wife's funeral." came the cautious answer. double _o_. "Really. "I think. _d_. I spell it: _O_ double _t_. well. double _u_. he plumped down on his stomach. When at last he saw one of the birds walking about. I'll get married." SPRING The teacher talked on the four seasons. "When is you gwine to git married."Your Honor. I don't think I'll ever get married. as he answered: "Oh.
"what is it--a boy or a girl?" "Tr-tr-tr--" the physician began stammeringly." STAMMERING On the occasion of a most interesting family event. with the growth of grasses and leaves and flowers. and immediately found that they were equally devoted to motoring. heavy tread. runs on low." "Self-starter?" "You bet!" SUNDAY SCHOOL The young lady worker for the Sunday school called on the newly wedded pair. "Oh. "Triplets! Merciful providence!" "Qu-qu-qu--" spluttered the doctor." STYLE Two old friends met. Then she called on the class to repeat the information she had given. Peedle paled some more. and so on. "Won't you . oh. paced the drawing-room in extreme agitation. "Quadruplets!" he moaned. but when the teacher insisted he at last said: "Why. tell me. but I didn't put the cat there. "N-n-no!" the physician snapped. until at last the doctor appeared in the doorway.new life comes to the earth. George?" George seemed very reluctant to answer." he gasped. limousine so to say. how this life matures in summer. and so on. Peedle. an' a lizard. That lady was described by her husband. whom he had never seen." she explained. as follows: "Nineteen-six model. Peedle paled. "Qu-qu-quite the contrary. one bethought himself to ask concerning the other's wife. Mr. She asked one little boy about spring. there's a frog. It's a girl. "What do we find in the spring. an' a dead cat. "I am endeavoring to secure new scholars. After a discussion of their various cars. who desired a son. It was another boy. an' a snake. ma'am. Tr-tr-try to take it qu-quietly.
there is One above Who knows it all. I must know who made the world!" Then. please. "And William will be down directly to tell us all about it." Mrs. sir. Gladstone that a number of ladies in her drawing-room once became engaged in earnest discussion of a difficult problem. Nobody seemed to know. sir. "Just look at those white horses!" he exclaimed disgustedly. . at last. a small boy piped up in much agitation: "Oh. it wasn't me!" SUPERMAN It is told of Mrs. "Yes. a devout lady of the company took advantage of a lull to say: "Ah. He repeated the question somewhat sternly. It chanced that at the time the great prime minister was in his study upstairs. he frowned and spoke with increased severity: "Children." She wore a yellow rose. Gladstone beamed. "And not a red-headed girl in sight." SUPERSTITION The superstitious sporting editor of the paper condemned the "Horse Fair" by Rosa Bonheur. As the argument in the drawing-room became hopelessly involved. wear a red rose in your corsage to-night at the opera. As the silence persisted. well. she continued brightly: "But won't you please send them when you do have them?" * * * The Sunday-school teacher examined his new class. "Who made the world?" he demanded.send your children?" When she was informed that there were no children in the family as yet. wear a white rose." she said proudly. If my devotion to you is hopeless." SUSPENSE The passionate lover wrote to his inamorata as follows: "Adored of my soul:--If you love me.
" "That is so. in surprise at sight of him on all fours. "It is the first time." the senator declared with a touch of sadness in his voice." TACT The senator from Utah was able to disarm by flattery the resentment of a woman at a reception in Washington. and made an eloquent clutch at his stomach as he explained: "Dear madam. "Alas. a laborer. madam." His fair antagonist was frankly surprised. The senator explained suavely: "We have to seek there in several women the splendid qualities that here are to be found in one. The tramp got to his feet shakily. After ringing the front door bell." SYMPATHY A tramp devised a new scheme for working on the sympathy of the housewife. I am so hungry that like Nebuchadnezzar I just had to take to eatin' grass." TALKING MACHINE Many a man who has suffered from tongue-lashings at home will be moved to profound sympathy for the victim described as follows in a local news item of a country paper: "Alice Jardine. "What do you mean?" she demanded. "that we have ever agreed on a matter of public policy. asked what he was doing there. a married woman. "The fact leads me to suspect that I am wrong. was charged with unlawfully wounding her husband. "You go right into the back yard--the grass there is longer. and during their chat discovered that they agreed concerning primaries. and began nibbling at the grass of the lawn." "Well. and.SUSPICION The eminent politicians of opposing parties met on a train." . Presently the woman opened the door. now ain't that too bad!" the woman cried." the other assented. "we are compelled in Utah to marry a number of wives." said one. Charles Jardine. after all in this matter of the primaries. well. who upbraided him for that plurality of wives so dear to Mormon precept and practice. by striking him with a pair of tongues. he got on his knees.
and then remarked: "You must have cried an awful lot when you was young." was the melancholy reply." directed the young lady teacher. and swallowed a good part of his bacon before he tasted it. as the old lady said when she kissed the cow." she inquired serenely. he was asked concerning his experiences. "I tasted it twice--once when it went down. "where shingles were first used?" . When the latter appeared. while he picked gingerly at the tar on his legs with the other. and once when it came up. the mistress asked a question that was little calculated to soothe her husband." TENDER MEMORIES "Please tell me. but rang for the servant." The child stared belligerently at the benevolent lady." TASTE A noted humorist once spent a few weeks with a tribe of western Indians. On his return. and she offered as a convincing argument: "You know it makes little girls homely." * * * It's all a matter of taste. One question was: "Did you ever taste any dog-feast stew?" "Yes." he murmured. "what did you do with the bacon we poisoned for the rats?" TEARS The kind lady stopped to tell the sobbing little girl not to cry. * * * The master of the house was hungry at breakfast. "rose to a terrible pitch.TAR AND FEATHERS The victim of the Klu Klux Klan plucked some feathers from his neck with one hand. Then he took time to protest violently to his wife against the flavor of the food. The good lady offered no apology. but it soon came down. "Maggie. James. "The excitement.
told of a law suit that he had with a man named Jones in Malone. "'Then you win. He hammered into the youth's consciousness. Then Jones bustled in. my boy!" The butler overheard and was horrified. the famous hotel-keeper in the Adirondacks. "It was this way: I sat in the courtroom before the case opened with my witnesses around me. "When you knock. "and he asks. will you have some cheese?" * * * The master of the house returned from business somewhat early. it's likely they're in the wash. "but I'd rather not." Bridget answered.'" * * * The grateful woman on the farm in Arkansas wrote to the vendors of the patent medicine: .' he asked. my Lord. He stopped abruptly. "Sure.'" The lad. and so called downstairs to the cook: "Bridget." little Jimmie replied in great embarrassment." TERMINOLOGY When the bishop was entertained at an English country house. I know nothin' but I'm thinkin'. he presented the dish to the prelate. in much nervous trepidation. and looked my witnesses over carefully. 'Who's there?' then you must say. 'I've had them witnesses twice myself. Finally. and faltered: "My God. 'It's the boy. do you know anything of my wife's whereabouts?" "No. sor. "'Paul.' he exclaimed.' I replied." TESTIMONY Paul Smith. he was satisfied that the boy understood. the butler coached carefully the new boy who was to carry up the jug of hot water for shaving in the morning. 'are those your witnesses?' "'They are. the fact that a bishop must be addressed as my lord. he announced: "It's the Lord."I could. sor. and permitted him to assist in serving the dinner that night. but in answer to the bishop's query as to who was at the door." the butler explained. He did not find his wife about. The youngster was sent to the bishop to offer a plate of cheese. ma'am. With shaking knees. Presently he turned to me. duly carried up the hot water.
I'd make them prove what they said. The nearest neighbor. Sanders. if you cry. "I was near--veera near--doin' it. and wear them best sheets all out. but the bit lassy had nae siller." Mac replied. Why. so I said to meaself. "Where did you come from?" the visitor inquired presently. and no pulled out and went "Well. I hear ye have fallen in love wi' bonny Kate McAllister." "Fact was.' And I was a mon. they even said I was a liar better than I ought to be. After taking three bottles of your Elegant Elixir I am now able to thrash my husband in addition to my other housework. who was a believer in strict discipline." * * * The thrifty housewife regarded her dying husband with stern disapproval as he moaned and tossed restlessly from side to side." THRIFT A Scotchman was questioned by a friend: "Mac. it was this way. I swan!" the visitor exclaimed indignantly. and noo I jist pass her by. "You can bet I wouldn't leave a place for any reason like that." she rebuked him." The homesteader sighed dismally as he answered: "That's jest the trouble--they did prove it!" THREAT The mother. I jest right away from them scandalous folks." . and introduced himself. "you jest needn't kick and squirm so. visited the homesteader's shack. be a mon."Four weeks ago I was so run down that I could not spank the baby. "William Henry. sternly addressed her little daughter. it down there any more. a claim was taken by a man from Iowa. even if you be a-dyin'. things about me. by Jemima. from twenty miles away. 'Mac." the man from Iowa explained somberly." "I didn't exactly like They got to telling and hoss thief. Letty. God bless you!" * * * In one of the most desolate areas of Montana. I'll never take you to the dentist's again. who sat wofully shrinking in the dentist's chair as the ogre approached forceps in hand: "Now. And." "Weel. and when he had been told: "I can't understand why anybody should want to get out of that civilized country to come and live in this lonesomeness. You see.
without killing him?" "I would have. fer nigh onto a hundred year. and reproached the farmer." TONGUE An old lady in the London parish of the famous Doctor Gill made a nuisance of herself by constant interference in the affairs of others. an' Ebenezer declares he has his health becase he never touched the filthy weed. was observed by her mother at work over her most elaborate doll in a somewhat strange manner. "It's kind o' which and t' other. and in doing so killed the dog." he demanded. "That's pa setting the clock. mummy." the native confessed. "if he had come at me with the other end. who defended himself with a pitchfork." the farmer answered." the child replied seriously. "Obadiah declares its all along o' his chewin' an' smokin' an' snuffin' day in an' day out. The owner was greatly distressed." TOILETTE DETAILS The little girl who had observed certain details in the toilette preparations of her elders. then eleven. my beloved!" "Don't be silly!" the girl chided. "Whatever are you trying to do with your doll. then ten. "I've taken off her hair. "I'm just going to put her to bed." TIT FOR TAT The prize bull-dog attacked a farmer." TOBACCO The native pointed with pride to two doddering ancients hobbling painfully down the village street. he burst forth passionately: "How fleet are the hours in your presence. At the sound of twelve strokes. and informed the stranger: "Them fellers is the Dusenbury twins--ninety-eight year old!" The visitor was duly impressed. and asked to what the pair of venerable citizens attributed their long life. "and just beat him off.TIME FLIES The ardent lover heard the clock strike the hours--first nine. As a gossip she was notorious. Mary?" the mother asked. "Why didn't you use the other end of the fork. but I can't get her teeth out. It appeared to her that the neckbands .
"I got you!" he cried savagely. almost completely disabled. felt himself about to die. that I should like to see it shorter. I shall not hesitate to gratify you. "good sister." the woman declared heartily." said the Doctor." "Come. and at the end offered her the neckbands on which to work her will.worn by the Doctor were longer than was fitting. Doctor. "you have something about you which is a deal too long and which causes me and many others such trouble. however. who had almost attained the century mark. nearly blind." the clergyman explained. here are the scissors! Use them as you please. the snake struck out and its fangs were buried in the wood only the fraction of an inch below the Italian's trousers. without friends. but he took breath to shriek over his shoulder: "Son of a gun! Why you no ringa da bell?" TREASURE TROVE An old negro. while seated on a log. One day. "Dog gone you! I got you!" The moribund derelict thrust his black face from the mow. as he answered: "An' a great git you got!" TRIAL The colored man was before the court. But the farmer had observed the man's entrance. accused of horse-stealing. He was assured. and showed his toothless gums in a grin. he hurried to the barn. Then she exhibited a pair of scissors. But just as his feet cleared the top of the log. and suggested that she should cut down the offending neckbands to a size fitting her ideas of propriety. He lifted his legs carefully. where he burrowed into the haymow. relations. then. dear Doctor. eating his lunch. put out your tongue. She therefore took occasion to visit the clergyman. What is it? See. and returned the shorn remnants to the minister. "you must do me a good turn also. that a snake would never strike until after sounding the rattles. The frightened man fled madly. "What can it be?" "Well. and harangued him at length on the sinfulness of pride. and after getting his shotgun." TREACHERY The Italian workman in the West was warned to look out for rattlesnakes. The . or money. with the intention of darting away on the other side of the log the moment the rattles should sound their warning. "And now. She triumphantly trimmed them to her taste. The Doctor listened patiently to her exhortation." "That I will." "Indeed. the Italian saw a rattlesnake coiled ready to strike. and stealthily made his way into a farmer's barn." said the Doctor.
you'll be fearfully lonely.prosecuting attorney read the indictment sternly. dashed off a line that was really superb: . for his concluding sentence was: "The lady lecturer on dress wore nothing that was remarkable. The writer had been innocent enough. and then. and then grinned propitiatingly as he said: "Now. the prospective father. ain't dat perzakly de ting we'se done gwine diskiver in dis-yere trial?" TRIPLETS When the domestic event was due. boss. Mummy?" _Mother:_ "No. being ordered out of the house. suh. which was left undisturbed by the proofreader. and undid some wrappings that revealed three tiny faces. never go to heaven." But the merry compositor inserted a period. Kitty. so that the published statement ran: "The lady lecturer on dress wore nothing. The father stared reproachfully at the clock in the hall. but Oi thank hivin Oi didn't come home at twelve!" TRUTH-TELLERS The little girl evidently appreciated the fact that all men and women are liars. for _Punch_ records the following as the dialogue between her and her mother when she had been caught in a fib: _Mother:_ "It is very naughty to tell untruths. spoke earnestly: "Oi'm not superstitious. in a fine frenzy. A nurse hurried to him. celebrated the occasion with many friends in a number of saloons. again regarding his group of children. won't you. dear--never. and then asked: "Are you guilty." * * * The poet." _Kitty:_ "Well. with only George Washington?" TYPOGRAPHICAL ERROR The woman lecturing on dress reform was greatly shocked when she read the report as published in the local paper. That was remarkable." _Kitty:_ "Don't you ever tell an untruth. or not guilty?" The prisoner wriggled perplexedly. He celebrated so well that the clock was striking three in the morning when he entered the house. Those who do so.
" * * * The critic. the Winged Victory. is ut?" he said. "Victory. she called to condole with the bereaved widower. She bewailed the fact given over to personal vanity. VALUES An American girl who married a Bavarian baron enjoyed playing Lady Bountiful among the tenants on her husband's estate. has suffered during the centuries to the extent of losing its head and other less vital parts." greatly she was grieved that she was sadly this very morning she temptation of thinking . "go in peace. and his guide had explained that this was the famous statue of victory. when the poem was published. radically in its significance. duly appeared in the morning paper." Wives are to be had for the asking. thus changed."See the pale martyr in his sheet of fire. this line read: "See the pale martyr with his shirt on fire. cows are not. read an _n_ for the _r_ in the word _parts_." the confessor bade her." VICTORY That celebrated statue. and she was then much disconcerted by his terse optimistic comment: "But it's a good thing. "Then. VANITY The fair penitent explained to the confessor how by an accusing conscience." The compositor. my daughter?" the priest demanded. "Is that all." The devilish compositor so tangled the words that. my daughter. begorra. wrote: "The ladies of Prince Charming's household troops filled their parts to perfection. She added that on had gazed into her mirror and had yielded to the herself beautiful. When the Irish tourist was confronted by this battered figure in the museum. She uttered her formal expressions of sympathy with him in his grief over the loss of his wife. in his review of the burlesque. for to be mistaken is not to sin. On the death of the wife of one of the cottagers. in his haste. Oi'd loike to see the other fellow. your ladyship. he surveyed the marble form with keen interest. and the sentence. that it wasn't the cow. "Thin.
"For various reasons. "I think I know now how wars begin. The two girls were greatly distressed and terrified. "and if we must. you impudent--" "And don't you dare bristle at me. The girls are pretty and charming. madam. their old-maid relation spoke up for herself: "Now. my dear. which was the property of an American spinster and her two nieces. you ought to know better. there was Germany and Russia. my love!" the husband remonstrated." "Shut up! I won't have my child mistaught by an ignoramus.WAR A report has come from Mexico concerning the doings of three revolutionary soldiers who visited a ranch. but even in their misery they were unselfish. looking up from his book. you have boggled--" "Your opinion. or I'll--" "Oh. though evidently of a dauntless spirit. "We are but two helpless women. Do not marry her." "Don't you dare. but the aunt is somewhat elderly and much faded. never mind!" the little boy intervened. Perkins. we bow to our cruel fate. It was because--" "Mrs." they said in effect. "Don't you suppose I know?" "Certainly not--you are all wrong. now. They went to war because the Russians mobilized. and had decided to marry the women and make their home on the ranch. I tell you it was because--" "Benjamin." explained the father. The three soldiers looked over the property and the three women. you girls--you mind your own business." "Not at all." At this point. War is war." * * * At our entry into the World War. "Now. But please--oh. has not been requested in this matter. "It was because the Austrians--" "Tut. tut. please--spare our dear auntie. and then declared that they were tired of fighting. a popular young man enlisted and before ." * * * "How do countries come to go to war?" the little boy inquired." the wife interrupted.
" The darky scratched his head thoughtfully. which he gave freely and ardently and when it was all done with. and called on another girl." After a tender interval punctuated with similar ardent promises. I'll take 'em anyhow. long letters?" she pleaded. "will the poor whales do now?" WHISKERS An elderly man was on his way home by train from a session of three days . a kindly old lady was deeply perturbed by the change. he communed with himself somewhat sadly. "I'll write every spare minute." he assured her. "there won't be much fighting to do over there--for I'm going to be awfully busy. In fact." he agreed solemnly. in answer to the usual query." he said wearily.setting forth for camp in his uniform made a round of farewell calls. then rolled his eyes to squint at the cloudless blue of the sky. he went away from there. "I do hope. with the girl's pretty head on the shoulder of the new uniform coat." she wanted to know. But one morning. "What. Jedge?" And the judge's habitual reply was to the effect that there was no news in particular. "And you'll kiss my picture every night. he called on ten separate and distinct pretty girls. "and if I haven't any spare minutes. and each of them was tender and sought his promises. "And you'll write me long." "Twice a night. there came a variation: "Our country has declared war against Spain. The girl who first received him made an insistent demand: "You'll think of me every single minute when you're in those stupid old trenches!" "Every minute." WHALES At the time when petroleum began to be used instead of whale oil for burning in lamps. and finally remarked in a pleased tone: "They shohly done picked a fine day fer it." WEATHER The old colored attendant at the court house had a formula for addressing the judge: "What's the news this mawnin'." he vowed.
a woman in the crowd of spectators made herself not only conspicuous.R. An annoyed man in . it encountered the long growth of white bristles." "Oh.at a convention of his political party. groaned and muttered: "I look worse than I thought for. "what is it like in heaven?" "Heaven!" the answer snapped. To determine just how badly he needed a shave. and he was aroused to a realization of his neglect. pulled it forth." * * * A widow visited a spiritualistic medium. He studied these with great care. Now." The listeners exclaimed over the catastrophe. She waved a flag with such vigor as to endanger the bystanders and yelled to deafen them. (This was antedating the era of prohibition. and held it up to his face with the bristles toward him. "Happier than you were on earth with me?" the widow continued.A. The widow knew the way." the widow cried rapturously. "Yes. "And what did the couple do then?" someone questioned." the widow questioned eagerly. he seized on a silver-backed hair-brush of the same set. do tell me. who satisfactorily produced the deceased husband for a domestic chat. just as Frank and the widow started up the aisle to the altar. and fumbled in it for a mirror. "Dear John.. the elderly gentleman opened his handbag. "Kept on going. In his confused condition." John asserted. every light in the church went out. John. Whatever will Sarah Ann say!" WIDOW One of the ladies assembled at the club was describing the wedding she had just attended: "And then. as he chanced to move his hand over his chin." the spook assured her. greatly impressed. and he had celebrated in a way only too common in the bibulous period of our history. "I am far happier now than I was on earth with you.) The man's personal preferences had been gratified in the nominations at the convention. "I ain't in heaven!" WIDOWHOOD During the parade at the last encampment of the G. "are you happy now?" "I am very happy. His absorption in other things and of other things had led him to neglect shaving throughout the three days. but rather a nuisance by the way she carried on.
much against his will." "Mercy!" exclaimed all the fair listeners with one voice. at the end of his patience." snapped the old sea captain. you would be hurrahing." WILD WOMEN The old sea captain was surrounded at the tea party. ladies.' said sister Patty. WOMAN A cynic. by a group of women pestering him for a story from his adventures. and said: 'Here. who carved. considering the fact that women was the last thing made by God. bluntly told her to shut up." "That. I was shipwrecked on the coast of South America. Finally.'" "'Yes. "Once. "Shut up yourself!" she retorted in high indignation." WIFE A young skeptic in the congregation once interrupted Billy Sunday with the question: "Who was Cain's wife?" The Evangelist answered in all seriousness: "I honor every seeker after knowledge of the truth. held up a rib on his fork. "If you had buried two husbands who had served in the war. "But they couldn't talk. * * * The following extract is from the diary of a New England woman who lived in the eighteenth century: "We had roast pork for dinner and the Doctor. But I have a word of warning for this questioner." WISDOM It's a wise child that goes out of the room to laugh when the old man mashes his thumb. 'and it is from very much the same kind of critter'. he began. too. asserts that the product shows both His experience and His fatigue. to which his wife had dragged him." . Don't risk losing salvation by too much inquiring after other men's wives. and there I came across a tribe of wild women. is what Mother Eve was made of. who had no tongues. quite without effect. "was what made them wild.the crowd after politely requesting her to moderate her enthusiasm.
an ardent advocate pleaded with a tired-looking married woman. God took out his brains. and made a woman of them." . Dad. Ma'am." * * * * * The following pages have been selected and edited by "Life's" famous contributor + A. And while the man was asleep. Jenny! Make it as far away as you possibly can. they can't _both_ afford to dress like that." * * * * * _Father:_ "Don't know the French for cat.* * * The little girl reported at home what she had learned at Sunday School concerning the creation of Adam and Eve: "The teacher told us how God made the first man and the first woman." WOMAN SUFFRAGE During the agitation in behalf of woman's suffrage. C." * "That's Betty Grant's new maid. He made the man first." * * * _Betty_ (_after flash of lightning_): "Count quickly. But the man was very lonely with nobody to talk to him. and you had a French nurse for years!" _Hopeful:_ "But." "She's much smarter than her mistress. and said: "Just think! Wouldn't you love to go with your husband to the voting place. but now I'm hoping to be spared to see the beginning of the next one. HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL _Oldest Inhabitant:_ "I never expected to live till the end of the War. we hadn't got a cat when Adele was with us. So God put the man to sleep. and there cast your vote along with his?" The woman shook her head decisively and she answered: "For goodness sake! If there's one single thing that a man's able to do by himself. let him do it." "Well.
Sir. what is it?" _R." * * * _Little Girl_ (_in foreground_): "Mother." * * * _Raw Hand_ (_at sea for first time and observing steamer's red and green lights_): "'Ere's some lights on the starboard side. only whistling. the name of the complaint is not pewmonia. Sir.:_ "Looks to me like a drug store. Jane. Surely." * "Can you play bridge to-night?" "Sorry. no." "What--do you like the stuff?" "Frankly. yes'm." _Champion Dog Breeder:_ "Good gracious! How ever do you manage to find . We've put the cat on milk-an'-water. I was accidentally dusting. Mum. I suppose the bridegroom _must_ come to his wedding. Sir. Jenkins." * * * _Mistress:_ "Oh. you've heard me again and again say '_pneu_monia'?" _Man:_ "Well. how _did_ you break that vase?" _Maid:_ "I'm very sorry. H." * * * _Mistress:_ "I hope you're doing what you can to economise the food. I _'ave_. I wish you wouldn't whistle at your work." * * * * * _Master:_ "But." _Cook:_ "Oh." _Boy:_ "I wasn't working. but I didn't like to correct you. but I've heard on the best authority that his music's very much better than it sounds.* * * _Employer:_ "John. Sir. Going to hear some Wagner." _Officer:_ "Well. We can hatch out two or three hundred chicks every week." * * * _Successful Poultry Farmer:_ "You'd be surprised what a difference these incubators make.
But now that you've suggested it I am. why _do_ you wipe your mouth with the back of your hand?" _Mary:_ "'Cos it's so much cleaner than the front. dear." * "Does God make lions." * LIFE'S DIFFICULTIES _Mother:_ "Why. but have you seen any pickpockets about here with a handkerchief marked 'Susan'?" * * * . I do so want to give this worm to my hen." * A CONSOLING THOUGHT _Belated Traveller_ (_surprised by a bull when taking a short cut to the station_): "By jove! I believe I shall catch that train after all. what's the matter. Mother." * * * _Mother:_ "Oh. Mary. I wasn't. officer." "But isn't he frightened to?" * * * * * * * * * "Excuse me." _Mother:_ "Then why don't you?" _Small daughter_ (_with renewed wails_): "'C-cos I'm so afraid the worm won't like it. Mums." * * * _Mother_ (_to child who has been naughty_): "Aren't you rather ashamed of yourself?" _Child:_ "Well.names for them all?" * * * _Small Boy_ (_who has been promised a visit to the Zoo to-morrow_): "I hope we shall have a better day for it than Noah had. darling?" _Small daughter_ (_tearfully_): "Oh. Mother?" "Yes.
Mollie. your last--er--pray what do you call those in whose service you are engaged?" _Applicant:_ "Clients. dear. Madam!" _Lady:_ "Well." * * * _Small Invalid_ (_to visitor_): "I've had a lot of diseases in my time--measles--whooping-cough--influenza--tonsilitis--but (_modestly_) I haven't had dropsy yet." "I'm going to say them in bed to-night. thank you." * * * "Mollie. Madam. Mummy. Madam!" _Lady:_ "Well--er--your last employer----" _Applicant:_ "I beg your pardon." * * * _Mother:_ "Well." * * * . Here's a picture of a girl with them on." * * * * * _Small Girl:_ "I wonder how old Joan is?" _Small Boy:_ "I bet she won't see four again." * THE SERVANT PROBLEM _Lady:_ "And why did your last mistress----" _Applicant_ (_loftily_): "Excuse me. you haven't said your prayers._Mrs." _Mother:_ "And did you enjoy it?" _Mary:_ "Yes." _The Man:_ "What appalling rot! Er--after you with the paper. has Jack kissed you under the mistletoe?" _Mary_ (_demurely_): "Yes. that isn't etiquette. Mummy." * * * _The Woman:_ "Jazz stockings are the latest thing. Jones_ (_who is gazing at an aeroplane_): "My word! I shouldn't care for one of _them_ flying things to settle on me. but (_very demurely_) _I struggled_. dear. then. Green to Mrs." "Oh.
" _Father:_ "Are you sure it's a lost ball?" _Small Boy:_ "Yes. didn't know how you'd prefer me to charge it up. George." * * * _Employer_ (_inspecting a very inflated bill for work_): "Look here--how did you get at this amount?" _Odd Jobs Man:_ "Well. What do you go round in?" "Well. really. the fact is I went to sleep on the top of it. they're still looking for it. so I just charged by time._Applicant for Situation:_ "And 'ow long did yer last cook oblige yer?" * TROUBLES OF THE NEW-POOR "George. gazing after stranger who has knocked her husband down_): "That was a lovely upper-cut he gave you. usually in a sweater. Did you find it so amusing?" _Lady:_ "Well. I wonder who he is?" * * * * * _Lady:_ "I've just been making my side ache over your latest book." * * * _Small Boy_ (_walking round links with his father_): "Daddy. Sir. will you go and speak to cook? I bought some tripe for dinner and--she's still looking at it through her lorgnette." _Author_ (_delighted_): "Oh." * * * * * "I hear you've taken up golf. Daddy. Daddy. here's a ball for you." ." _Father:_ "Where did you get that from?" _Small Boy:_ "It's a lost ball." * * * _Small Boy_ (_toying with dull blanc-mange_): "Please may I have an ice instead of finishing this--'cos I feel sick?" * THE NEW APPRECIATION _Wife_ (_habitue of the Ring.
By the way._Employer:_ "Oh." * _Tourist:_ "Have you any cold meat?" _Waiter:_ "Well." * * * _Artist_ (_in desperation_): "That. we have some that's nearly cold. you're the old lady what goes for rides in my daddy's . Sir. but I'm afraid I can't let you have onions. and I half don't like her. my little man. I consider the finest in my exhibition. Sir. Cook. the gentleman on the next floor presents his compliments and says. Mr. You can have it for half the catalogue price. how do you like your new teacher?" "I half like her. would you be so good as to let him know how long it will be before your bath stops overflowing through his ceiling?" * * * _Old Lady_ (_interrogating her chauffeur's small boy_): "Well. Sir. I'm going out this afternoon. really! I thought you must have been charging by eternity. what is the price of the catalogue?" * * * "Well." * * * * * _Lady:_ "If you please. and do you know who I am?" _Small Boy:_ "Yes." _The Visitor:_ "Bless my soul! You don't say so." * * * "Please. Mollie. _I don't want my name to die out_. may we have steak and onions for lunch to-day?" _Cook:_ "You can have steak. seeing as how you can foretell the future. You see. Jones?" _Butler:_ "Well. and onions always make my eyes so red. Grafto." * * * _Small Boy_ (_on being told by cousin that she is engaged to be married_): "Oh! (_long pause_) and what did your husband say when he engaged you?" * * * _Master:_ "But why do you want to get married. But I think I half don't like her most.
to billiard enthusiast_): "You're wanted at 'ome. and not always 'fair." _Pessimist:_ "No. but they seem so. we've not done anything together for a long time." _Bride:_ "Don't I.'" _Young Hopeful:_ "I daresay you would." * * * * * _Little Girl_ (_to Bride at wedding reception_): "You don't look nearly as tired as I should have thought." * * * * * _Specialist_ (_to patient suffering from insomnia_): "And did you try my plan of counting sheep coming through a gate?" _Patient:_ "Well. I'm an ordinary boy of ordinary parents. I can't say off-hand. I counted up to a hundred and twenty thousand and thirty-nine. Yer wife's just presented yer with another rebate off yer income-tax." ." * * * _Neighbor_ (_bearer of message. Dad. you see. old man. This is a toppin' fox-trot they're playin'." * * * _Parent:_ "I should like you to have 'good' in your report." * OUR MODERN INFANT _Genial Uncle:_ "Well. Charlie." "Thanks--but I'm only waltzing this evening. I heard Mummy say to Dad that you'd been running after Mr. dear? But why did you think I should look tired?" _Little Girl:_ "Well. eh?" _Small Boy:_ "Thanks very much. and that's an ordinary report. We're still in mourning.car." * * * _Optimist:_ "Cheer up. But. old chap. and then it was time to get up. How about the Zoo next Sunday. but I'll ring you up. you know." * A SUBTLE DISTINCTION "I say--come and dance. Things aren't as bad as they seem. Goldmore for months and months.
Why. If yer wants ter make a bit more yer does a bit o' work for it. it certainly isn't. in middle of ceremony_): "Mummie. I hate this kind. Albert?" "Wot yer gets for goin' to yer work." _Candid Friend:_ "No." * * * _Father:_ "Look here. Mum. It really isn't much good." * * * * * ." * * * * * _Small Bridesmaid_ (_loudly. Profiteer:_ "Is this a pedigree dog?" _Dealer:_ "Pedigree? I should just think 'e is. if the animal could only talk 'e wouldn't speak to either of us." _Smaller Girl_ (_with air of superiority_): "_My_ mummy was married _years_ ago." _Son:_ "Did he? I hope you got on as well as I did.* * * _Joan_ (_whose mother has just bought her a pair of woolen gloves_): "Oh. Billy. they make my sweets so hairy. Mr. But who told you?" * BLUE BLOOD _Mrs. Mummy. Smith called at the office this morning about your fight with his boy yesterday.' But I have had colleagues. are we all getting married?" * * * _Small Girl:_ "To-day's my mummy's wedding-day." * * * _Artist_ (_condescendingly_): "I did this last summer." * * * _Lady_ (_to applicant for situation as cook_): "Have you been accustomed to have a kitchen-maid under you?" _Cook:_ "In these days we never speak of having people 'under us. I wish you had got kid." * "Wot's a minimum wage.
and a good honest fellow too. it does so cut into one's Sundays." * * * "Two mistakes here. would you wish to dine as a rule?" _Profiteer:_ "What time do the best people dine?" _New Butler:_ "At different times. Sir. Your grandmother died last week. one in mine." * * * _Minister's Wife:_ "My husband was asking only this morning why you weren't in the habit of attending church." _Cynic:_ "Bigamist!" * * * _Mother:_ "Augustus. Do you feel very bad." * * * _Gushing Lady:_ "Yes. she's married to a lawyer. I've very near broke me jaw already. you don't treat your dear . you see. will dine at different times." _Office Boy:_ "Yes._Office Boy_ (_anxious to go to football match_): "May I have the afternoon off. you've been smoking. yes. waiter--one in your favor. Then I. Sir? My grand----" _Employer:_ "Oh." * * * _New Butler:_ "At what time." _Profiteer:_ "Very well." _Cook:_ "You don't catch me crackin' no more nuts to-day. Sir? Where?" * * * _Mistress:_ "Oh. Percy." _Latest Inhabitant:_ "Well. you naughty boy. be sure and put plenty of nuts in the cake. Sir. I've heard that before. dear?" _Augustus:_ "Thank you--I'm only dying. Sir." "In _your_ favor." * * * _Fond Mamma:_ "I sometimes think. but--my grandfather's getting married again this afternoon. cook. too.
" _Playful Hostess:_ "If I picked you up by the heels and shook you. I've no more room. "Well. I never liked the man. would that help?" _Serious Little Boy (after deep thought):_ "No. then! Suppose _you_ talk about me for a while. fanks. you see. so we're writing. I've done nothing but talk about myself all evening." _Vicar's Wife:_ "Oh--and what are you writing in it?" _Ethel:_ "Well. Ma." _Fred:_ "What did she say?" _George:_ "No!" * CHANGING THE SUBJECT _She:_ "Well! Let us change the subject. fanks. Mummy. I've only got enough change to pay the exact fare. D'you mind taking a cheque for the tip?" * * * ." * * * _Vicar's Wife:_ "What are you children doing in daddy's study?" _Ethel:_ "It's a great secret. We're giving daddy a new bible for his birthday. we thought we'd better copy what daddy's friends put in the books they give him. 'With the author's compliments. that would make the space at the wrong end." _He:_ "I'm sure we couldn't find anything better.'" * THE OBSTACLE _George:_ "I proposed to that girl and would have married her if it hadn't been for something she said." * * * * * * * "I say." _Young Hopeful_. Taxi." * * * _Playful Hostess:_ "Couldn't you manage one more _eclair?_" _Serious Little Boy:_ "No." _She:_ "Very well.father with quite the proper respect.
" _She:_ "Oh. darling--so long as he doesn't _do_ it when we get back. dear. but it strikes me he might have saved a lot of argument if he had said _which_ one." * * * _He:_ "I never knew until to-day that the Rev. By the way. what are _you_ going to buy him?" * A YOUNG PHILOSOPHER "Mamma!" * * * * * * * * * * . yes! It is she who rehearses him in those beautiful extempore sermons he preaches." _Bridegroom:_ "It can't make any difference to our happiness. I consider their conduct is little short of cruel. Preachly married an actress. but I spent ten dollars to-day on a boat." * CONDITIONAL _Eloping Bride:_ "Oh. Jack! I can't help wondering what father will say when he gets our letter." _She:_ "Oh." * DURING THE QUARREL _He:_ "But if you will allow me to----" _She:_ "Oh! I know what you are going to say. and a box of soldiers. and some nine pins for Freddie's birthday. but you're quite mistaken and I can prove it.A CHANCE LOST "Who was the originator of the idea that a husband and wife are one?" "I give it up. Jack! How can you expect old fogies like they are to know anything about _love_?" * ALL IN ONE BREATH _Wife:_ "I'm afraid you'll think me rather extravagant. Dr. and a train." * JUST IGNORANCE _He_ (_dejectedly_): "I'm sure I don't see why our parents won't give their consent. and a fire-engine.
" _He:_ "I guess I have never been really thirsty."What is it. it ought to be here in about two hours. What time will the next one be here?" "If the engine doesn't break down. and the swing bridge isn't open. dear?" "It seems to me that a 'silly question' is something that you don't know the answer to. I am becoming reconciled. Lynks:_ "Jack. cold water." _Gertrude:_ "Oh." * A SOOTHING EFFECT "Do you miss your husband as much as when he first went away?" "No. there is nothing so good as pure." _Mr. Julia! What a dreadful state to be in. and the track doesn't spread." * GETTING EVEN _Mrs. if you'll give me ten cents every time you envy me for being able to." * A QUALIFIED STATEMENT "Well! we've missed that confounded train. Lynks:_ "That's a bargain. She tells me she has absolutely nothing to wish for. You see he sent me a power of attorney." * IN THAT CASE _She:_ "When one is really thirsty." * * * * * * * * * * * * * _The Count:_ "I weesh to marry your daughtaire. and they don't run into any cows." . saire! I am vorth one hundred thousand dollaire. you know." * FEMININITY _Julia:_ "Fanny married a very wealthy man. and the up-freight isn't behind time. I have made up my mind to fine you ten cents every time you swear.
" * * ." "I had an idea he was rather stupid." * * * _Urchin_ (_contemptuously_): "Huh! Yer mother takes in washin'!" _Neighbor:_ "Well. I never met a man who could make more different kinds of a fool of himself. did yer?" * HIS SPHERE "His versatility is something extraordinary. gazing into your eyes. but unfortunately they can't remember what they quarreled about." _The Count:_ "I mean zat I am vorth zat moch _to you_." _Practical Bride:_ "Oh! That reminds me." * * * "It's funny that you should be so tall." * * * _Mother_ (_to little girl who had been sent to the hen-house for eggs_): "Well." "That's just it. darling." * * * "I suppose your landlord asks a lot for the rent of this place?" "A lot! He asks me for it nearly every week. the artist. Your brother. were there no eggs?" _Little Girl:_ "No. mummie." * A LOVERS' QUARREL _George:_ "Why don't Jack and Laura make up?" _Kate:_ "'Sh! They'd like to. dear. only the one the hens use for a pattern." * * * * * _Poetic Bridegroom:_ "I could sit here forever. yer didn't s'pose she'd leave it hangin' aht overnight unless your farver was in prison. and listening to the wash of the ocean._The Millionaire:_ "But I thought you were a bankrupt. is short. isn't he?" _He_ (_absently_): "Yes. we have not paid our laundry bill yet. usually.
" _Elsie:_ "Oh! Mother! Supposing this month had had only thirty days. am I a bass or a baritone?" _Teacher:_ "No--you're not. where would I have been?" * GETTING RECKLESS _She:_ "I'm surprised at Jane's staying out in the boat all this time with a comparative stranger. but you'll find lots of other girls different from other girls." "But the trouble is. I always end by hating myself." * RETROACTIVE "You know you should love your neighbor as yourself. dear." "Then I hope you aren't offended." * * * * * _Pupil:_ "What I want to know is. I didn't mean what I thought about you. You see. when I try to do that. you're so different from other girls." * APOLOGIZING "Oh! Are you really a mind-reader?" "Yes! I am." * DENIED THE PRIVILEGE * * * * ." _He:_ "Aren't you afraid she is _too old_ to know better?" * * * * * "I shall never find anyone else like you.* A DREADFUL POSSIBILITY * * _Elsie:_ "When is my birthday. A woman of thirty is old enough to know better. Mother?" _Her Mother:_ "On the thirty-first of this month." "Oh.
_The Child:_ "Mother! Did you buy a ticket for me?" _The Mother:_ "No, dear! They don't charge for little boys." _The Child:_ "Is that 'cos we're too little to reach the straps?" * A GOOD PLAN _She:_ "The Burrowes are having their wooden wedding next week. What can we give them?" "We might send them a receipt for some of the money he owes me." * ENFRANCHISEMENT OF WOMAN _First Voter:_ "So Mr. Jones has been elected. You voted for him, of course?" _Second Voter:_ "No, I voted for the other man. You see, Mr. Jones supported Woman's Suffrage, which I abhor." * FAMILIARITY, ETC. "I'm so glad to see you. And how did you enjoy your visit to the South?" "Oh, not very much! There wasn't a soul where I was staying except intimate friends." * REASSURING _She:_ "Oh! Jack! Are you perfectly certain that you love me?" _He:_ "My darling! You don't suppose that I have lived for thirty years without knowing love when I feel it." * HOW IT HAPPENED "What! You don't mean to tell me they are engaged! Why! They never met until a week ago." "I know it. But they happened, while out rowing together, to get caught in a thunder storm." * A LINGUIST * * * * * * * * * * * *
"She is one of the most remarkable women I ever met." "In what way?" "She can keep silence in four different languages." * THE DIFFERENCE _She:_ "I'm so glad we're engaged." _He:_ "But you knew all the time that I loved you, didn't you?" _She:_ "Yes, dear, I knew it, but you didn't." * THE ROAD TO----, ETC. "Well, what are you sneering about? You don't seem to have much faith in my good resolutions." "I was just wondering if you had taken the paving contract for the next world." * CLASSIFIED _Mrs. Bargain:_ "Oh, Ethel! I have just talked Edward into giving me the money for a new hat." _Mr. Bargain:_ "Which I shall enter in my accounts as 'Hush Money.'" * A SOLUTION _The Mistress:_ "Oh, Jane, if I had known who sent those flowers I would have returned them unopened." _The Maid:_ "Shure, Miss, couldn't ye take a few out, and sind the rist back unopened?" * ENCOURAGING _He:_ "My train goes in fifteen minutes. Can you not give me one ray of hope before I leave you forever?" _She:_ "Er--that clock is half an hour fast." * AN ALIAS * * * * * * * * * * * *
_Miss Hen:_ "I demand an explanation! You told me that your name was plain 'Mr. Rooster,' and that poet just now addressed you as 'Chanticleer'!" * * *
_Lady_ (_to prospective daily housemaid_): "The hours will be from nine to six-thirty, with an hour and a half off for dinner." _D. H.:_ "For _luncheon_, I suppose you mean. And I should have to leave at six, as I always dine at my club and have to dress first." * CHANGING PLACES "They say that she was his stenographer before marriage." "She has evidently reversed the order of things." "How so?" "_She_ does the dictating now." * ECONOMY _Young Husband:_ "I see that sugar has gone down two points." _Young Wife:_ "Has it? I'll get a couple of pounds to-day, then." * * * * * * *
_Best Man_ (_seeing couple off on honeymoon_): "Here you are--just a few magazines to help pass away the time." * * *
_Hostess_ (_to small guest, who is casting lingering glances at the cakes_): "I don't think you can eat any more of those cakes, can you, John?" _John:_ "No, I don't think I can. But may I stroke them?" * * *
_Mr. Househunter:_ "I don't care for those flats we looked at to-day. The rooms are too narrow, and the ceilings are too low." _Mrs. Househunter:_ "But they are cheap, dear; and you and I are neither very wide nor very high." * QUALIFIED * *
_The Leading Woman:_ "How does Garrette rank as an actor?" _The Comedian:_ "He doesn't--he is." * CLAIMING ACQUAINTANCE _Chimmie:_ "Dat's McCorker de heavy-weight--me cousin used ter go ter school wid'm." _Billie:_ "Dat ain't nuthin'--me brudder had t'ree front teet' knocked out by'm onct." * FROM THE HEART _The Wife:_ "I have not been able to wear my new hat yet on account of the weather." _The Husband:_ "Humph! And I suppose by the time it clears up the fashion will have changed." * * * * * * *
_The Reporter:_ "I beg pardon, but would you be kind enough to tell me what blow you will knock Fitzmuggins out with to-morrow night?" _Sledge-hammer Mike:_ "De solar plexus." _The Reporter:_ "And er--if you get beaten, what will your--er--weak spot have been?" * AN ARGUMENT "This theory about fish being brain food is all nonsense." "Why do you say so?" "Because the greatest number of fish are eaten by the very people who are idiots enough to sit out all day waiting for them to bite." * THE SECRET _The Man of Theory:_ "The great secret of happiness lies in being content with one's lot." _The Man of Practice:_ "But it has to be a whole lot." * WANTS HER RIGHTS * * * * * *
its object seems to be to reform everything except the Club and everybody except the members." _She:_ "So I did." * * * * * * * * * ." _The Summer Man:_ "Well--er--could you manage to be a sister to me for a couple of weeks?" * NOT UNIQUE _He:_ "Crowded. She is our greatest teacher. but I really cannot become engaged to you. I am afraid there is some misunderstanding." _Betty:_ "But what a price!" * DURING VACATION _The Summer Girl:_ "It pains me to be compelled to say so." * * * "And are you a good needlewoman and renovator. were you? I thought you went early to avoid the rush. but about five thousand other people did the same thing. does God send us our food?" _Mother:_ "Yes. dear. of course He does." * GETTING BACK _Customer to Palmist:_ "Five dollars fee? Er--would you have any objection to waiting until I get some of the money you say is coming to me?" * * * * * _Betty:_ "Mummy. either. and willing to be useful?" "Madam._He:_ "There is nothing like experience after all." * A NOBLE AIM _She:_ "Have you heard anything about the woman's Reform Club?" "Yes." _She:_ "And there is no holding back her salary. I am a lady's maid--not a useful maid.
dear. how many men did your regiment muster?" * * * "Phwat's the matter wid yez." * SLIGHTED "I sincerely regret our misunderstanding. darling. I've been asked to take supper with an old comrade in arms. Would you advise me to buy him?" "That depends upon your eye for a horse and his ear for music. Florence. and am quite ready to be friends again." "By the way. indeed! If you had any _feeling_ you'd call it a quarrel. you know that lovely purse you gave me for my birfday?" _His Mother:_ "Yes. dear! What of it?" _Freddie:_ "It makes me feel orful to think of it just lyin' in the drawer 'ithout a cent in its stummick." * CAUSE AND EFFECT "What a lot of suffering these ambulance surgeons must witness. If I were you I'd get even with her." "Faith! Lasht noight Oi tould Casey phwat Oi thought av him. indeed! Almost every time they go out they run over some one.ONCE TOO OFTEN "Yes." "_Misunderstanding_." * SYMPATHY _Freddie_ (_aged six_): "Mother. I'm going out to-night. an' ut appears he thought worse av me." * * * * * * ." * * * * * "He's a nice little horse (I saw him myself) and the dealer says I may have him for a song. Regan? Yez look hurted." "Yes." * GOING FURTHER _Flora:_ "I think that Maud has been awfully mean to you.
children! and what are you learning at school?" _Small Boy:_ "Oh." * LITERALLY _He:_ "I understand that she fairly threw herself at him._Dora:_ "Getting even with her won't satisfy _me_. Karn:_ "Very well." _He:_ "That's saying a good deal when you consider what a golf fiend she is. _I'm_ going to get _uneven_ with her. she's learning to make paper dolls and I'm learning to knock spots out of Willie Jones." "Well!" "And now each is afraid to give in for fear of offending the other." "Sour grapes always _did_ have that effect." * CAUSE AND EFFECT "The way those people flaunt their money fairly makes me ill." * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ." * AN EXTENSIVE LOVE _She:_ "They say that he fairly worships the ground she walks on. Storme:_ "How is your Debating Society getting along?" _Mrs." _She:_ "Yes! They met in an automobile collision." * GETTING ON _Old Gentleman:_ "Well. We have forty members." * NO DISSENSION _Mrs. and we all agree beautifully." * "Why are they not speaking?" "They quarreled about which loved the other the more.
Ma'am! That's what Oi do be afther complainin' av." _Mother:_ "I'm afraid such a lot of cake would make you sick." * SUCH A WASTE _Mrs. Where did she hit you?" _Casey:_ "Faith." _Elsie:_ "Oh! but I'd change myself into a Nelephant first. an' eat it all up." * SURE SIGNS "Afraid you're going to have insomnia? What are the symptoms?" "Twins." _He:_ "Humph! I know! Each of them does exactly as _she_ likes." * TOO ONE-SIDED * * * * * * * * * * * * . What can you suggest?" "Oh! I think a really useful diamond ring would do as well as anything. and Mrs. 'Twas a whole set av dishes broke to pieces an' she niver hit me wanst." * ARRANGED TO FIT _Elsie:_ "Mummy! if I wuz a fairy I'd change every-fing into cake." * PROBABLY "I want to buy you something useful for your birthday." * HE KNEW _She:_ "I never saw a married couple who got on so well together as Mr.IN KEEPING "I really believe he married her only because he wanted a good housekeeper. Rigby." "And now I suppose he wishes he could give her a month's warning. Casey. Bizzy:_ "I am so sorry to hear that your wife has been throwing the crockery at you again.
'I'll be ready in two seconds'?" _The Wife:_ "Humph! and why is it that men always say." * DISCRETION _Miss Bizzy:_ "I am glad to hear that you are married. and you are always forgetting. INDEED _The Husband:_ "Why is it that women always say."What is the use of quarreling. Lyttlebrayne. and hope that you and Bridget don't have many differences of opinion.'" * ONLY THEIR WAY _First Lady_ (_effusively_): "I am _more_ than _charmed_ to see you. my dear girl? Let us forgive and forget." _Dora:_ "What did you say in your last letter?" _Flora:_ "That I didn't mean what I said in the one before. 'Oh! _I'm_ ready _now_'?" * * * * * * * * * * * _Madge:_ "Have you given Jack your final answer yet?" _Mabel:_ "Not yet--but I have given him my final 'No. O'Brien. my * * . we have a good many." _O'Brien:_ "Faith." * BETTER UNSAID _Cholly Lyttlebrayne:_ "Yes. but it cost me over a thousand dollars." _Miss Thotless:_ "Oh! Mr. the doctors saved my life. I am always forgiving. what extravagance!" * LETTING HIM KNOW _Flora:_ "I'm writing to tell Jack that I didn't mean what I said in my last letter." "That is just the trouble. but Oi don't let her know about them." * WHY. ma'am.
miss. VERY soon." * INADVERTENT _Prospective Bride:_ "I am glad I decided to be married in a traveling dress--a wedding dress costs such a lot. de doctor what fixed de leg I broke doin' dat second-story job didn't do a t'ing but soak me fifty plunks!" _Second Burglar:_ "Oh." _He:_ "But I've known cases of love in a four-room flat. wasn't that robbery?" * MORE OPPORTUNITY * * * * * * * * * * * * . with steam-heat and all improvements.--er--um--._dear_ Mrs." * MORE DESPERATE STILL _She:_ "Oh! there's no use of my giving you any hope. and they went and gave one away!" _The Parrot:_ "Wasn't it too bad of them--to go and break the set?" * POPULAR OPINION _First Burglar:_ "Say. the Earl wants me to send him a photograph to show to his parents." * SYMPATHY _The Tabby-Cat:_ "I am just heart-broken! I had six of the loveliest kittens. say. Bill." * MAKING SURE "Papa." "Yes. and the next time you wanted to wear it. but he wants a photo of your certified check." _Second Lady_ (_more effusively_): "How _lovely_ of you! So am I _delighted_. it would be out of fashion. I _do_ hope we'll meet again _very_.--um--er--." "I thought he had dozens of your photos. because I cannot believe in love in a cottage. my _dearest_ Mrs." _Dressmaker:_ "Yes.
'It's all you'll get!' and Georgy said. 'This food isn't fit to eat!' and I said." _The Husband:_ "But he has just twice as much money to be self-denying with. Our neighbor. your hands are frightfully dirty. do you remember that occasion when I made such an awful ass of myself?" _She:_ "Which?" * * * _Jones_ (_who is of an inquiring mind_): "Ain't you getting _tired_ of hearing people say. we've struck!" _The Gnat:_ "What for?" _The Ant:_ "Longer hours. talking of old times. 'Is _that_ the beautiful Miss Belsize?'" * * * . my dear?" _Effie:_ "Why.' mummy. Mr." "Not 'frightfully. Mitcham." * * * "Jacky. my dear. and Georgy said. 'Damn!' and I got up and left the room!" * NOT WHAT SHE MEANT _She:_ "I am sorry to hear that they have separated. A lot of that's shading. Flint." * _The Ant:_ "Well. and I sat at the other._The Wife:_ "Really." * * * * * _He:_ "By the bye. no. Georgy sat at one end of the table. dear. is just twice as self-denying as you are. We've been playing Husband and Wife!" _Mr. they seem to be _quite_ reconciled. I'm getting tired of hearing people say." * * * * * _Effie:_ "George and I have been down-stairs in the dining-room. Is there no chance of their becoming reconciled?" _He:_ "Oh. 'That is the beautiful Miss Belsize!'?" _Miss Belsize_ (_a professional beauty_): "Oh. Mr. you are awfully extravagant. Mitcham:_ "How did you do that.
but it's rather bare._Mrs. Montague Smart_ (_suddenly. Old Man!" * * * _She:_ "No! I can't give you another dance." "Well--you can stay down there an' consider this 'ere lock-out. but Jack prayed for Daddy. to bashful youth. dear?" _Daughter:_ "Well. Emily." _Commander:_ "Well. I hope the trees will have grown a good bit before you're back. Sir. Old Man!--and you've really got a very nice little place here!" _Host:_ "Yes. just now. Mummy. who has not opened his lips since he was introduced to her a quarter of an hour ago_): "And now let us talk of something else!" * * * _Mamma:_ "It's very late. good-bye. But I'll introduce you to the prettiest girl in the room!" _He:_ "But I don't _want_ to dance with the prettiest girl in the room." * * * _Mother:_ "Did you remember to pray for everybody." * * * _Motor-Launch Officer_ (_who has rung for full-speed without result_): "What's the matter?" _Voice-from below:_ "One of the cylinders is missing. Mamma--several people!" * * * _Guest:_ "Well. I prayed for you. yes. look sharp and find the bally thing--we want to get on. considerin' this 'ere strike." * * * _Wife_ (_at upper window_): "Where you bin this hour of the night?" "I've bin at me union. Has anybody taken you down to supper?" _Fair Debutante_ (_who has a fine healthy appetite_): "Oh. I want to dance with _you_!" * * * "I warn you. Sir! The discourtesy of this bank is beyond all limits." . One word more and I--I withdraw my overdraft. He's looking after him just now.
He's so ." * * * _Wife:_ "My dear. Mummy! Anything but that! I'd rather have a hard smack--_anywhere you like_. dear?" _He:_ "Why." * * * _Governess:_ "Well. will you please put him out of pain?--and of course you must charge me just as for an ordinary patient. Have you forgotten that this is the anniversary of our wedding-day?" * * * _First Flapper:_ "The cheek of that conductor! He glared at me as if I hadn't paid any fare. I told Bobbie that yesterday.* JUSTIFICATION * * _Wife:_ "_Two_ bottles of ginger ale." * * * "I say. who has volunteered to treat her pet dog_): "And if you find you can't cure him. Why ask?" "Well." _Governess:_ "And what are little boys made of?" _Mollie:_ "Snips and snails and puppy dogs' tails." _Second Flapper:_ "And what did you do?" _First Flapper:_ "I just glared back at him--as if I had!" * * * _Mollie_ (_who has been naughty and condemned to "no toast"_): "Oh. yes." * * * _Irate Parent:_ "While you stood at the gate bidding my daughter good-night." _Lady_ (_to doctor. Mollie. I couldn't find the beastly thing. dear old bean. and he could _hardly_ believe it. will you lend me your motor-bike?" "Of course. sir! I never stayed as late as that. did it ever dawn upon you--" _The Suitor:_ "Certainly not. Doctor. we've simply got to change our family doctor. what are little girls made of?" _Mollie:_ "Sugar and spice and all that's nice.
" * * * "What's the matter. remain cool. I suppose?" "Yus--if she don't get it." * * * "Can I 'ave the arternoon off to see a bloke abaht a job fer my missis?" "You'll be back in the morning. Why. Then I put them on again in the morning. "Above all things. Goodheart:_ "I am soliciting for the poor." _Husband_ (_as he gazes with horror at the canary-colored socks_): "Yes." * * * The schoolmaster was explaining what to do in case of fire. little boy?" said the kindhearted man. "I ain't lost. and you have succeeded. But I'd like to know where father and mother have wandered to. I thought I'd buy you something you'd never think of buying for yourself. I _have_ been good to-day--so patient with Nurse.absent-minded." * * * ." * * * _Helen's elder sister:_ "You know. Hardup:_ "I hang them up carefully and go to bed. dear. What do you do with your cast-off clothing?" _Mr. this afternoon he was examining me with his stethoscope. all the stars are worlds like ours." was the manful answer." * * * _Wife:_ "Yes. 'Halloa! Who is it speaking?'" * * * _Mrs. "Are you lost?" "No." _Helen:_ "Well. I shouldn't like to live on one--it would be so horrid when it twinkled. I'm here." * * * _Child:_ "Mother. "if your clothing catches fire. and while he was listening he called out suddenly. dear." he said. The pupils listened with respectful attention until he came to his final instruction.
because you wasn't." * * * ._Podger_ (_to new acquaintance_): "I wonder if that fat old girl is really trying to flirt with me?" _Cooler:_ "I can easily find out by asking her--she is my wife. we're all ready." _The Bride_ (_smiling triumphantly_): "That shows what you know about it. to the ordinary kind. sir. sir." * * * _Wife_ (_referring to guest_): "He's a most attractive man. is that it is fool-proof. madam.' would that be right?" "No." was the reply. 'You was here yesterday. He's a reserved chap--keeps all his troubles to himself!" * * * Questioning a class. But you don't know my husband." _The New Hand:_ "Wot yer talkin' about--'run up the curtain'--think I'm a bloomin' squirrel?" * * * _Old Gentleman_ (_to new gardener_): "Why do you always pull your barrow instead of pushing it?" _The Gardener:_ "'Cause I 'ates the sight of the blooming thing. that there is something wrong with this cake. my dear." * * * _Young Husband:_ "It seems to me. run up the curtain." * * * _Salesman:_ "Another advantage of this machine." _Sweet Thing_ (_placidly_): "No doubt. "And why not?" "Please." * * * _The Stage Manager:_ "Now then. is he married?" _Husband:_ "I dunno. an inspector asked: "If you were to say to me. The cookery book says it's perfectly delicious.
The fasteners come undone as quick as you do them up. you're not going to the links to-day?" "Oh. Why?" "I was just thinking how extravagant some women are. Auntie." "Which is he. John." * * * _Lady_ (_who has purchased a ready-made dress_): "Tiresome this dress is. Lil--he's one of these fellers wot chooses the price first an' then runs his fingers along the bill o' fare to see wot he gets for it."My dear." "But it's _pouring_! Why. while I buy your ticket." _Cook_ (_acting as lady's-maid_): "Yes'm. I shall try and put in a round. That's why I wouldn't have it myself when I tried it on at the shop the other day." * HIS REPUTATION _Waitress:_ "He ain't no good. they do." * NOT RESTRICTED "That gentleman who is being introduced to Miss Binks is a free thinker. yes. did he not?" "I believe so. yew can't say fer _sure_ that the train'll show up--I don't never believe in payin' fer a thing 'til I git it. I wouldn't send a dog out to golf in such weather." * * * * * * * "Some wise person once said that silence was golden. Mirandy. a bachelor or a widower?" * * * * * _John:_ "Yew wait here." ." * NOT UP-TO-DATE _Penelope:_ "What made George and Alice break their engagement?" _Clarissa:_ "He complained that she was too 'Effeminate' for the present day." _Mirandy:_ "Daon't yew dew it.
" said Mike. an' one for ten miles. two sets of carvers for cycling. "Well. * * * _Voice_ (_far off_): Cuc-koo! Cuc-koo! Cuc-koo! _Satiated Camper:_ All right. "Did ye ivir meet my bruther Dennis?" asked Pat. "he must have bin a wonderful athlete." * * * _The Escort:_ Who's that fellow who seems to know you? _The Lady:_ Only a second cousin once removed. an' badges for boxing an' rowing!" "Begorra. I'm just thinking what a lot you must mean. an' thot's foine. two cups for wrestling. who had knocked down a man without injuring him much. "He kapes the pawnshop!" * NOTHING NEW TO HIM The motor car was driven by a determined young woman. an' he's no athlete at all--at all. "I'm sorry it happened. a silver medal for swimming. She did not try to get away. They met one day." replied Pat. but they had drifted apart in after life." said Pat." "Bedad. she stopped the car." she said grudgingly." "I'm not sneering. "Sure. "but it was all your fault. But did I ivir tell ye about my uncle at Ballycluna?" "I don't remember. "he's got a gold medal for five miles. "He has just won a gold medal in a foot race. descended to the solid earth and faced him manfully. and the conversation turned on athletics. _The Escort:_ Hm! Well. he looks as if he wanted removing again." came the reply. my dear. Instead.* * * _The Wife:_ "Oh. indade!" "Shure." * * * * . I've been driving a car for seven years. you needn't sneer! I mean every word I say. I'm an experienced driver. You must have been walking carelessly. all right! Who's arguing about it? * A GREAT ATHLETE Micky Bryan and Patsy Kelly had been schoolmates together." replied Mike.
On receiving the first impression she failed to recognise the figure thereon depicted as herself. my boy." * A HUMBLING SIGHT An old Scotchwoman. and finally the boy remarked: "Say. I've been walking for fifty-seven years. I hope when I am as old as you are. but it is just as well not to say it when there are women and children around. * * * * . * KNOWLEDGE The son of the family was home on his first vacation since he had attained to the dignity of college prefect. I was saying what a funny nose that man's got. card in hand. Guv. who had resisted all entreaties of her friends to have her photo taken. * * * _She_ (_pouting_): You don't value my kisses as you used to." * * * _Lady_ (_to pedlar_): "No." _Pedlar:_ "Then I've just the thing for you. so." * * * There is a lot to be said for the cheap car. "I'm not a novice myself. I'll know more than you do. before we were married I used to expect a dozen in payment for a box of candy. Humphrey. _He:_ Value them? Why. You will." replied her victim angrily." "I'll go you one better. He and his father were discussing affairs of the day. and now I consider only one of them sufficient payment for a new dress. she set out for the artist's studio to ask if there was no mistake. "I hope that when you are that old you will know as much as you think you do now. Yes. _Humphrey_ (_aged five_): Well. "Is that me?" she queried. * * * _Mother:_ It is rude to whisper. thank you. we read. Madam. was at last induced to employ the services of a local artist in order to send her likeness to a son in America. we never buy anything at the door. So you see it would have been much ruder if I'd said it aloud."Well. appreciate these tasteful little 'No Pedlars' notices." the father replied. I am sure.
"And is it like me?" she again asked. but she doesn't wear very well. "Certainly!" she replied. so one of them that he ventured to make a mild protest." Madam. I thought perhaps you were taking an inventory!" * * * _Officer_ (_to sailor who has rescued him from drowning_): Thank you. "What else should I be doing?" For a moment the salesman hesitated. madam. asked. but the poor thing wears the best she has. madam." replied the artist. _Sailor:_ Don't do that. "Well. "it's a humblin' sicht. "are you shopping here?" * * The lady looked surprised. _Pollie_ (_kindly_): I know. resignedly. Miss Fethers is a pretty girl." he had visited every department of one of the big London shops the majority of the salesmen without spending a penny. * * * _Lady_ (_to box office manager_): Can you tell me what they are playing to-morrow night? * * * _Box Office Manager:_ "You Never Can Tell. madam." "Aweel!" she said."Yes. they'll half kill me! * * * _Steward:_ Can I do anything for you. _Lady:_ Don't they even let you know? * * * . sir. * TROUBLESOME CUSTOMER A woman who and worried exasperated "Madam. then he blurted out. Smith. I suppose. sir? _Passenger_ (_faintly_): You might present my compliments to the chief engineer and ask him if there is any hope of the boilers blowing up. but not by any means annoyed. it's a speaking likeness. "Yes." * * * _Dollie:_ Yes. To-morrow I will thank you before all the crew at retreat.
" An hour later they entered the house. _Sympathetic Lady:_ Dear. I thought I'd better tell you the clock is ten minutes fast. dear. seeing you're painting the church. "And do you remember me. is telling him what a fine memory his little son Bobby has. Jinks. I haven't. * * * _Employer_ (_rebuking employee for slackness_): Have you any idea of the meaning of "Esprit de Corps"? _Stenographer:_ No. to dinner. and ma was so wild about it that she didn't speak to pa for a whole week. "And if he expects to have the last word he's an even bigger fool. Gadspur." said Mr. how did you do that? _Boy:_ Sawing. "I agree with you. mam. my little man?" "Course I do. and after Jinks had shaken hands with Mrs. You're the same man that pa brought home last summer. * * * _Sympathetic Lady:_ What's the matter with your hand. * REMEMBERED Blinks. my little man? _Boy:_ Sawed the top of my finger off. Blinks. who has just returned from abroad." * NATURAL DEDUCTION "The man that argues with a woman is a fool. he calls Bobby over to him." "Quite so. "And do you suppose he will remember me?" said Jinks. he remembers every face that he ever saw." said Mr._Village Idiot:_ Beg pardon. Twobble. after inviting his friend. What did you and the 'Missus' quarrel about this morning?" * TOO GOOD * * * * * * . and if it's anything vulgar I don't want to. "Remember you? Why. quite so.
I found he wasn't." * TEACHING THE YOUNG IDEA Little Willie looked up from the paper he had been reading. Alice." "Yassum. Alice?" "Yassum." * HE TAKES YOUR TIME "The chief objection we have to the man who 'knows it all. boy! You don't know that!" indignantly returned his parent. I thought he was a good little boy."Well." * THE FLOOR HELD "Did your watch stop when it dropped on the floor?" asked one man of his friend." said a Southern woman to a coloured girl formerly in her employ. who was Mozart?" "Good gracious. "is that he insists that everyone he knows shall know it all. "I hear that you have married. too.'" remarked the Observer of Events and Things. He's powerful good provider. Johnnie? Good little boys don't fight. I don't see why you hesitate. I know that. "Sure. "Did you think it would go through?" * HIS DIFFICULTY _Real Estate Agent:_ "This tobacco plantation is a bargain." * AN ERROR IN JUDGMENT _Mother:_ "What! Have you been fighting again. "Go and read your Shakespeare." _Johnnie:_ "Yes. Ah done got me a husband now." was the answer. What are you worrying about?" * * * * * * * * * * * * ." "Is he a good provider. but after I hit him once. and inquired of his father: * "Dad. but Ah's powerful skeered he's gwine git catched at it.
" * ANSWERED _She:_ "And what would you be now if it weren't for my money?" _He:_ "A bachelor. "Yes." "Well. I should say about half a mile. but Inexperienced. One of the witnesses for the prosecution was being severely cross-examined by the defending counsel. Humph! Now tell the court how far you were off when you heard the second shot. "You say that you heard both shots fired?" he asked sternly. Purchaser:_ "I was just wondering whether I should plant cigars or cigarettes. dear. in which the prisoner was accused of having fired twice at his intended victim. * * * * * * * * * * . but. sir. his amazement was great. they're going to make peace among the Allies. sir. you played right into his hands!" * A CLOSE CALL Pat was a simple country yokel who had never strayed from the outskirts of his native village. "I didn't exactly measure the distance. I see._Prospective." * THE REAL JOB "What's this new conference they're going to have in America?" "Oh." * TO BE SURE _Lily:_ "Harold proposed to me last night while turning the music for me at the piano." replied the witness slowly." "How near were you to the scene of the affair?" "At the time the first shot was fired I was about twenty feet from the prisoner." "Twenty feet." * OFF LIKE A SHOT It was a case of attempted murder. and because he stood in a railway station for the first time of his life." _Edith:_ "Ah. speaking approximately.
'" * READY AND WILLING _Magistrate:_ "Can't this case be settled out of court?" _Mulligan:_ "Sure.' Our captain. much to the amusement of the onlookers. he was about to leave the office. But they had particular reference to the old state militia camp of long ago. staring after it as though some kind of miracle had happened. uncle. and by the time his last trip came was absolutely fed up by being asked silly questions. The result was that when the company of which I was a member was ordered to fall in the next morning to answer the roll-call there was a pretty wobbly line-up. that's what we were trying to do. you forgot to pay me. sure. "Oi was just thinkun'. so they asserted. The first night in camp everybody seemed to be bent on sampling what everybody else had brought down from the city." "Nossuh." said Rastus. * * * They were talking over the days that will never return. shuffling out. He remained like this for several minutes." "Pay you fo' what. sarcastically remarked. 'I should say as much. I simply can't do anything for that. pulling himself together. the days when there was no thirst in the land." said one of the old-timers. Everybody expected his city friends to run down to the camp. can you help me? My name is Jones---_Doctor:_ No. boss. looking us over.' Instead he got rattled and said. there was much taken to camp in those days that had little to do with military training. your honor. and after he had checked up he should have reported. that did it. For be it known. and it was carried in capacious jugs and big bottles. the company is present and accounted for. "I'se compluntated it from all angles and decided not to take it. Shaking his head. I'm sorry. He kept his eyes glued on the tunnel through which it had disappeared.The vastness of his surroundings completely dazzled him. there. when the doctor called out "Hey. "what a terribal smash there'd 'a' bin if he'd 'a' missed the 'ole!" * * * _Breathless Visitor:_ Doctor. "was a notably wet one. boss?" "For my advice. but when the 3." * * * * * An old darky visited a doctor and received instructions as to what he should do." he said. . when the police interfered." * * * An airman had been taking up passengers for short trips. and be called upon to act as an assuager of thirst. 'Sir. "The year I have reference to. until at length an inquisitive porter asked him what he was staring at. We had a new sergeant--new to the routine of a camp. 'Sir. full as a tick. the company is full.30 express dashed through the station.
A large hall." "That's strange! Your mither said you niver gave her anything!" * * * * . "What is it?" he said impatiently. "A' my spare cash I gie tae my auld mither. if you please. I thought perhaps you ought to know Annie's gone. Looking round. that on no account were they to speak to him." he said. "and I know I oughtn't to speak. "ye micht like to leave me a bob or twa tae drink ye a safe journey. but I can't help it. he beckoned the chairman. He looped the loop and practiced all sorts of stunts to his own satisfaction with no interruption from his passengers until he felt a touch on his arm. "when I've been speaking half-an-hour I do a high dive. _Daphne:_ What bad luck done come to you? _Chloe:_ I sen' home dat pink silk petticoat wid de filly aidge what I was gwine keep out to wear to chu'ch on Sunday. and a good speaker had been engaged. When the latter arrived he seemed in a crabby frame of mind. "What--who?" stammered the professor absently." * NONE AT ALL Sandy had gone to the station to see his cousin off. "Mac." he said." * * * _Chloe:_ I sho' mighter knowed I gwine have bad luck if I do dat washin' on Friday. I do apologize sincerely. no. and the airman quite enjoyed himself. "I'm so sorry to trouble you. two ladies. "Oh.He told his passengers. Up they went. "To drink?" was the chairman's idiotic question. * * * The professor was deeply absorbed in some scientific subject when the nurse announced the arrival of a boy." said a voice behind. "Why interrupt me--isn't my wife at home?" * SARCASM Everything that could be done to make the great unemployed meeting a success had been accomplished. "I should like to have a glass of water on my table. that he could not talk and give his attention to his machine. and that they must keep silent. I canna." was the sarcastic retort." "Mon." was the reply.
but that would be glad to do so. looked over his shoulder for a few minutes. my dear?" _Wife:_ "Did you like it?" "It was lovely--the melody divine. they're ewers. he announced: the clergyman was called into the vestibule by a that he should marry them. too?" * ALL BRAINS A gentleman who was walking through a public gallery. who was painting on a large picture." shouted the other in a voice of thunder. Mary. overheard the following amusing conversation between a big. heavy-looking man. if I dinna gie my auld mither anything. the steak was burnt last evening. . * THIRTEEN TO ONE Just before the service young couple. just before the end of the service. ma'am. limping over to where he sat. thank you. * * * * * * * * "Will those who wish to be married to-day please come forward?" Thirteen women and one man quickly stepped up." "Well. sir." _Maid:_ "Oh. where a number of artists were at work. and you said it was horrid. who. may I ask what medium you paint with?" "Brains. "Oh. the harmony exquisite!" "It is the very thing I played last evening."Well. and said timidly: "I beg your pardon. He answered he had if they would wait until after the sermon he Accordingly. indeed! That accounts for its fogginess. And are all them little basins mine. who asked not time then." which caused a roar of laughter. what sort of chance d'ye think you've got?" * ART AND NATURE _Husband:_ "What was that you were playing. and a weak-looking little cripple." * MISUNDERSTOOD _Mistress:_ "Don't call them jugs.
but I could give you a wrinkle or two. The innkeeper looked pained." "I would." * * * * * * * . "but that darn dog ain't dead. of course. I thought he was working the last week he was here." he flung back over his shoulder. you fancy yourself very wise." _Younger sister:_ "No doubt--and never miss them. But. dear. in low. I dare say." he replied. It isn't every man who can realise the dreams of his youth." * * * _Wife_ (_enthusiastically_): I saw the most gorgeous chiffonier to-day. "We don't boast about it. sad tones." _Client:_ "You're in luck." she exclaimed as he started a strategic retreat. "you always swore you would face death for me. doesn't it?" he asked. Percy. "Why.* A GOOD ACTOR * * _Neighbour:_ "I hear that you had an actor employed on your farm." * NEVER MISS ONE _Elder sister:_ "Oh. too. "This place boasts of a choral society. and he's a fairly good actor. Why. "We endure it with all the calm resignation we can!" * * * * * The swain and his swainess had just encountered a bulldog that looked as if his bite might be quite as bad as his bark." * TOO SAD FOR THAT A tourist was chatting with the proprietor of the village inn." _Farmer:_ "Yes. I know we can not afford---_Hubby_ (_resignedly_): When have they promised to deliver it? * REALISED _Lawyer:_ "When I was a boy my highest ambition was to be a pirate.
A BAD NIGHT The boy who had "made good" in town asked his old mother to come to London. He gave the old lady the best room in the hotel--one with a private bath adjoining. The next morning the boy asked: "Did you have a good night's rest?" "Well, no, I didn't," she replied. "The room was all right, and the bed was pretty. But I couldn't sleep very much, for I was afraid someone would want to take a bath, and the only way to it was through my room!" * TRIPPED The shaded lights, music in the distance, sweet perfumes from the costly flowers about them--everything was just right for a proposal, and Timkins decided to chance his luck. She was pretty, which was good, and also, he believed, an heiress, which was better. "Are you not afraid that someone will marry you for your money?" he asked gently. "Oh! dear, no," smiled the girl. "Such an idea never entered my head!" "Ah! Miss Liscombe," he sighed, "in your sweet innocence you do not dream how coldly, cruelly mercenary some men are!" "Perhaps I don't," replied the girl calmly. "I would not for a moment have such a terrible fate befall you," he said passionately. "You are too good--too beautiful. The man who wins you should love you for yourself alone." "He'll have to," the girl remarked. "It's my cousin Jennie who has the money--not I. You seem to have got us mixed. I haven't a penny myself." "Oh--er!" stammered the young man, "what pleasant weather we are having, aren't we?" * THE GLOOMY GUEST The best man noticed that one of the wedding guests, a gloomy-looking young man, did not seem to be enjoying himself. He was wandering about as though he had lost his last friend. The best man took it upon himself to cheer him up. "Er--have you kissed the bride?" he asked by way of introduction. "Not lately," replied the gloomy one, with a faraway expression. * * * * * * *
"Why did you take Meyerbeer off the dinner card?"
"People kept thinking it was something to drink." * * *
A well-known admiral--a stickler for uniform--stopped opposite a very portly sailor whose medal-ribbon was an inch or so too low down. Fixing the man with his eye, the admiral asked: "Did you get that medal for eating, my man?" On the man replying "No, sir," the admiral rapped out: "Then why the deuce do you wear it on your stomach?" * * *
_First Little Girl:_ What's your last name, Annie? _Second Little Girl:_ Don't know yet; I ain't married. * * *
_Kloseman:_ I didn't see you in church last Sunday. _Keen:_ Don't doubt it. I took up the collection. * * *
A Southern family had a coal-black cook named Sarah, and when her husband was killed in an accident Sarah appeared on the day of the funeral dressed in a sable outfit except in one respect. "Why, Sarah," said her mistress, "what made you get white gloves?" Sarah drew herself up and said in tones of dignity, "Don't you s'pose I wants dem niggahs to see dat I'se got on gloves?" * * *
_Dad_ (_sternly_): Where were you last night? _Son:_ Oh, just riding around with some of the boys. _Dad:_ Well, tell 'em not to leave their hairpins in the car. * * *
Said the guest, upon approaching his host's home in the suburb, "Ah, there are some of your family on the veranda. The girl in short dresses is your daughter, the young man in riding breeches is your son, and the woman in the teagown is your charming wife." Said the host: "No, you are all wrong. The girl in the short dresses is my grandmother, the young fellow in riding breeches is my wife, and the woman in the teagown is my ten-year-old daughter, who likes to dress up in her great-grandmother's dresses." * * *
A bumptious young American farmer went to England to learn his business, but where he went he pretended that it was far easier to teach the farmers than to learn anything from them. "I've got an idea," he said one day to a grizzled old Northumbrian agriculturist, "for a new kind of fertilizer which will be ten thousand times as effective as any that has ever been tried. Condensed fertilizer--that's what it is. Enough for an
acre of ground would go in one of my waistcoat pockets." "I don't doubt it, young gentleman," said the veteran of the soil. "What is more, you'll be able to put the crop into the other waistcoat pocket." * * *
Weary Willie slouched into the pawnshop. "How much will you give me for this overcoat?" he asked, producing a faded but neatly mended garment. Isaac looked at it critically. "Four dollars," he said. "Why," cried Weary Willie, "that coat's worth ten dollars if it's worth a penny.'" "I wouldn't give you ten dollars for two like that," sniffed Isaac. "Four dollars or nothing." "Are you sure that's all it's worth?" asked Weary Willie. "Four dollars," repeated Isaac. "Well, here's yer four dollars," said Weary Willie. "This overcoat was hangin' outside yer shop, and I was wonderin' how much it was really worth." * NOT IN THE BUSINESS "I'm not quite sure about your washing-machine. Will you demonstrate it again?" "No, madam. We only do one week's washing." * HER VIEWS _Mrs. de Vere:_ "I suppose now that you have been abroad, you have your own views of foreign life!" * * * * * * *
Mrs. Profiteer: "No, we ain't got no views. We didn't take no camera; it's so common." * A GOOD MATCH _Proprietor:_ "What made that customer walk out? Did you offend him?" _Assistant:_ "I don't know. He said he wanted a hat to suit his head and I showed him a soft hat." * LIFE'S BIGGEST PROBLEM * * * *
_Old Job:_ "The best way to get the most out of life is to fall in love with a great problem or a beautiful woman!" _Old Steve:_ "Why not choose the latter and get both?" * * *
_He_ (_just introduced_): What a very homely person that gentleman near the piano is, Mrs. Black! _She:_ Isn't he? That is Mr. Black. _He:_ How true it is, Mrs. Black, that the homely men always get the prettiest wives! * * *
A customer entered the small-town barber shop. "How soon can you cut my hair?" he asked of the proprietor, who was seated in an easy chair, perusing the pages of a novel. "Bill," said the barber, addressing his errand boy, "run over and tell the editor if he's done editin' the paper I'd like my scissors." * * *
_Pompous Publisher_ (_to aspiring novice in literature_): I have been reading your manuscript, my dear lady, and there is much in it, I think--ahem!--very good. But there are parts somewhat vague. Now, you should always write so that the most ignorant can understand. _Youthful Authoress_ (_wishing to show herself most ready to accept advice_): Oh, yes, I'm sure. But, tell me, which are the parts that have given you trouble? * FISHY RECORD _First Stenog._ (_reading_): "Think of those Spaniards going 3,000 miles on a galleon!" _Second Stenog.:_ "Aw, forget it. Yuh can't believe all yuh hear about them foreign cars." * * * * *
A group of tourists were looking over the inferno of Vesuvius in full eruption. "Ain't this just like hell?" ejaculated a Yank. "Ah, zese Americans," exclaimed a Frenchman, "where have zey not been?" * * *
"Lay down, pup. Lay down. That's a good doggie. Lay down, I tell you." "Mister, you'll have to say, 'Lie down,' he's a Boston terrier."
ma'am." * PERFECT AGREEMENT _Mother:_ "Hush! You two children are always quarrelling. * * * "The doctor has ordered her to the seashore. so I came round to the back. Why can't you agree once in a while?" _Georgia:_ "We do agree. Now they're having a consultation." "I guess you've seen the last of him.* _Lady:_ Well." "I don't know about that. He may turn up here some day as an efficiency expert. what do you want? * * _Tramp:_ Leddy. Edith wants the largest apple and so do I. _Her:_ Nonsense! _She:_ That's what I said when I heard it. * * * * . "He never did anything but stand around and look wise." * _She:_ Jack is in love with you. I'm no ordinary beggar. I was at the front---_Lady_ (_with interest_): Really---_Tramp:_ Yes. Dubwaite." "Of doctors?" "Of dressmakers. he gave me a box of stationery yesterday with my initials on it--such a lot. believe me. mamma." said Dr." * * * * * "But why don't you think he will propose soon?" "Well." * "You discharged your office boy?" "Yes. but I couldn't make anybody hear. so I know it's all over between us.
As he took it. The woman gave him one." he said._Her:_ How dared you! * * * _Professor_ (_endeavoring to impress on class the definition of cynic_): Young man." "What this country needs. mum. Piglatch." said Mr." replied Farmer Corntassel. with a pained expression." * * * * * "If a man has a beautiful stenographer. please?" "The nearest hospital!" she ejaculated. please. he said with shaking voice: "Where's the nearest hospital." * IT WORKED A tramp entered a baker's. with a slight trace of irritation. said to the clerk: "What's the name of this wheel?" "That is the Belvedere. Peckton." * BOTTLED COURAGE "Is this stuff guaranteed to make a rabbit slap a bulldog in the face?" "My dear sir. placing the money on the counter. "I don't know whether he will take more interest in his business. "This stuff will make a tenant snap his fingers under his landlord's nose. mum. He was rewarded by a stony glance and the icy question: "Can you recommend the Belva?" * * * "What this country needs is more production." answered the salesman. "but his wife will. what would you call a man who pretends to know everything? _Senior:_ A professor! * * * A young lady who was inspecting bicycles. * * . thoughtfully. do you suppose that will cause him to take more interest in his business?" asked Mr. shivering piteously. "is less talk about what it needs and more enthusiasm about deliverin' the goods. "A loaf." said the bootlegger.
" He crawled out. nurse. said humbly: "You'll take yer loaf. "Get out of my shop." * WRONG BROTHER A wealthy gentleman has a brother who is hard of hearing. "It worked a treat. I'm feeling bad." He turned to obey. "What's up?" asked the soda clerk. "Here. where he sat between two young ladies who talked to him very loudly. the plumber who fixed them has just come in to have a prescription filled. mum?" "Get out of my shop. Finally one of them shouted a commonplace remark and then said in an * * * * * * . But do you remember when our water pipes were frozen last winter?" "Yes. and then we can have lunch. the scarlet fever. I believe I'm sickening for something. but what--" "Well. Bill?" he said. Now you do it fer a bit o' bacon." came the answer. and with bowed head went around the corner. "Have you been taking something?" "No. and. "Well. Presently." * FILM FEVER _Nurse:_ "You were very naughty in church." she said. rather to his annoyance." * THE DRUGGIST'S TURN The druggist danced and chortled till the bottles danced on the shelves. Guy. won't yer. "Right oh! 'Enery. to the pictures."Yes. He did so. Once. mum. this gentleman dined at a friend's house. I think. while he himself is remarkable for having a very prominent nose. Do you know where little boys and girls go to who don't put their pennies in the collection box?" _Guy:_ "Yes. another mountain of misery joined him. offering the bread. take your money back." "What!" she shrieked.
and never 'andled poultry. He got up and limped down the road. Graham:_ "Do you know. at one meeting." he groaned. You followed my directions. I should like you to tell me one thing about a farm which I can not do. "I can plow. it says on the label. but I've bred canaries. He was walking briskly along the road toward home. I ain't ever looked after 'orses. reap. a voice asked from the back of the hall: "Can you lay an egg?" * * * _Doctor:_ "You are a great deal better this morning." he said. Miss F. you haven't taken any of it?" _Patient:_ "No. "Oh. shoe a horse--in fact." "Of course. I see." Then. 'Keep the bottle tightly corked." * * * _Prospective Employer:_ I suppose you have some experience of live stock? _Applicant for Post:_ Well. if I had my way. I'd put every woman in jail!" . "suppose we call it $5.ordinary tone to the other: "Did you ever see such an ugly nose?" "Pardon me. you understand that the $5." said the gentleman. "I am a practical farmer." "All right. in the impressive silence. "Well. Suddenly he noticed that something warm and wet was trickling down his leg. * * * A Scotchman had been presented with a pint flask of rare old Scotch whiskey. It threw him down and hurt his leg quite badly. milk cows. and that prescription did the business--what. ladies. when along came a Ford which he did not sidestep quite in time.. Lord. nor milked cows." * * * A candidate for Congress from a certain Western state was never shy about telling the voters why they should send him to Washington. "It is my brother who is deaf." said the manager. boastfully.'" * * * "And about the salary?" said the movie star.000 is merely what we call it--you will get $500.000 a week. "I hope that's blood!" * * * _Mr.
he telegraphed a proposal of marriage to the girl of his choice. I bet dey don' eben have evenin' dresses whah yuh come frum." replied the resourceful guide.:_ "Why. After waiting all day at the telegraph office he received the affirmative answer late at night. I'm surprised. I didn't know you felt that way about us! What sort of a nation do you think this would be. "I don't blame you. . pointing with a dainty parasol." * * * _Second-story Worker:_ "Hullo." said Miss Wellontheway. if you put all the women in jail?" _Mr. Mr. * * * He was a Scot. "To make the engine tender. with the usual characteristics of his race." "Zat so? Dey's doin' well to have evenin's whah yuh come frum. but he won't let me read the letter and I don't know what to confess. Graham." said the guide. I see you got a new overcoat. Bill. * * * "Huh! Yuh talks 'bout sassiety like yuh knows so much 'bout it." remarked the newly-made bride. What did it cost you?" _Burglar:_ "Six months._Miss F." * * * * * "I'd like to see the man who could persuade me to promise to love. "That's an engine boiler. Niggah. I never wears cheap clothes!" * * * The sweet young thing was being shown through the boiler shop. honour and obey him. "And why do they boil engines?" she inquired. Graham:_ "Stag-nation. of course!" * GUILTY _Sister:_ "Hubby received an anonymous letter this morning informing him of something I did before we were married." _Sister:_ "I know it." _Brother:_ "Well. the best thing you can do is to confess. Wishing to know his fate. "What's that thing?" she asked.
"I'd think twice before I married the girl who kept me waiting for an answer so long. gave them each a Bible neatly wrapped up in brown paper. "Splendid!" lied Simson bravely. "The girl for me is the girl who waits for the night rates. in a burst of confidence. "in what way?" And Simson."Well. "Well. I think all women are angels!" "You needn't be so enthusiastic as all that!" * BAD BOTH WAYS _Dobb:_ "What's that piece of cord tied around your finger for?" _Botham:_ "My wife put it there to remind me to post her letter." * * * * * * * * * "Your wife looks stunning to-night." "And did you post it?" "No. truth to tell. replied. the little book still remained in its brown paper wrapping somewhere under the counter. if I were you. for. thinking he was on safe ground. deciding to surprise them. do you think me an angel?" _Hubby:_ "Why. and the first place he called at was the village butcher's. certainly. Her gown is a poem. "but. they lived happy ever after. "it ended like they all end. I'm very enthusiastic. Simson. my dear." he said. one day." * TOO ENTHUSIASTIC _Wifey:_ "Henry." "Na. Mr. A few days later he called round on each of his flock. she forgot to give it to me!" * HIS LITTLE MISTAKE A certain country vicar who used to distribute books to his parishioners as reading material." . "Why." said the operator. "how did you like that little book I gave you the other day?" Simson was rather taken aback at the query. Na?" said the Scot." he added." "Oh!" exclaimed the vicar.
Of course I'll marry you. He was seen by two Irish boys." * WEDDING DECLARED OFF * * * * * * * * * * . "How is old Mr. "he's got a wife and two kids. "Hush." * NOT A FATHER A Protestant Episcopal clergyman was walking down a city street wearing the garb of his profession. Jones again. poem?" replied the struggling author. is Thomas." "Have you any bad habits?" asked Miss Goldielocks. he ain't no father. won't we?" * OFF There was a distinct air of chastened resignation about him. thoughtfully. "Only that I walk in my sleep.' I do not know who George is." * TOUGH ON THE SENATOR The Senator was back home. but I'm crazy about you. Jones?" he inquired. if you could call that a bad habit. I would draw your attention to the fact that it begins 'Dear George." * REDEEMING TRAIT "I know I'm old. Moneybags. And we'll have our honeymoon on the top floor of some tall hotel. but my name.--I return herewith your kind note in which you accept my offer of marriage." "You dear old thing. and asked the minister about some of his old acquaintances." stated Mr. "Good morning. "That gown is two poems and a short story."What do you mean. "When I go I'll leave all my fortune to you if you'll have me. "Will I be likely to see him to-day?" "You'll never see Mr." said the minister. looking after his political fences. Father." said one of the boys. as he penned the following note: "Dear Miss Brown. "He has gone to heaven." said the other. as you will remember.
" said the old man. he has had you such a very long time. The ferryman and his mate. eggs. etc. "I haven't much ready cash on hand. After a long struggle with his curiosity he was vanquished. cheerfully. I can't bear to leave father alone just now. As the old fellow neared the door his eye lighted upon an extraordinary-looking instrument conspicuously placed upon a counter. he asked: "What is it. which amounted to $100. A young surgeon who had occasion to operate in one of these districts hopefully approached the husband of the patient and asked for his fee. The venerable negro paused for several moments to gaze in open-mouthed wonder at this thing. Suppose you let me pay you in kind._John Willie_ (_pleadingly_): "Why can't we be married right away. anxiously: "We'll just tak' your tuppences now. and after a short debate the ferryman turned to his passengers and remarked. "Sho. "Of course I am. for example. "Doc." was the laughing response. Turning to the optician. my darling. boss?" "That is an opthalmometer." answered the old man. the like of which he had never seen before. * * * The ferryboat was well on her way when a violent storm arose." muttered the old man to himself." replied the young doctor. "Sho. his eyes still fastened upon the curious-looking thing on the counter. in payment for debts." Farmers." replied the optician in his gravest manner." "Well. playfully to the girl he was engaged to marry." _Elsie_ (_freezingly_): "Sir!" * PERHAPS! "You are a little goose!" remarked a young M. Elsie?" _Elsie_ (_coyly_): "Oh." _John Willie_ (_earnestly_): "But. held a consultation. will give potatoes. for we dinna ken what micht come over us. both Highlanders. doc.D.. I guess that will be all right. as he backed out of the door. dat's what I was afeared it was!" * * * In many of the rural districts of the United States where money does not circulate with great rapidity services are paid for "in kind." * NO DOUBT * * . "haven't I got a quack?" * * * * * A Northern man in an optician's shop in Nashville overheard an amusing conversation between the proprietor of the establishment and an aged darkey who was just leaving the place with a pair of new spectacles. "What do you deal in?" "Horseradish.
" * * * Once. _Officer:_ Yell what? _Recruit:_ Why." "Well. sir. Mr. "Well?" he demanded sharply. an office boy was kept working overtime for several nights." His boss gave a hard laugh. what do you do? _Recruit:_ I yell. You go forever next pay day. _Butler:_ The master is in great pain. what do you suppose? Cease firing. He is receiving nobody. * * * _Young Woman_ (_holding out hand_): Will you please tell me how to pronounce the name of the stone in this ring? Is it turkoise or turkwoise? _Jeweler_ (_after inspecting it_): The correct pronunciation is "glass." "I think not. Next morning he was disturbed by a loud tattoo upon the door. why won't you. the guest jumped out . Tom. have you?" "I haven't." "You won't?" "I won't. * * * _Doctor_ (_at door. and growled to his boss: "You've kept me workin' every night till 9 o'clock for three nights runnin' now."Lend me ten. I can't go forever." * * * _Officer_ (_drilling recruits_): Hey. and I'm worn out. "Wrong!" he said." * * * The bellboy of the Welcome Hotel has invented an ingenious system of calling sleepy guests. "I've got a message for you. you. in case of fire. He didn't like it. I ain't no machine. my boy. The other night a man left instructions that he wished to be called early. "Wrong. sir. then?" "Because I have no doubt of your character." Yawning until he strained his face. Brown. to butler_): Tell your master the doctor is here." "You've no doubt of my character. in a rush season.
and took out a slip of paper bearing the words: "It's time to get up. he said." "Any turkeys?" "No." "Have you stolen any geese?" "No." * * * * * "I took that pretty girl from the store home the other night. There were no witnesses. was taken to see his married sister's new baby. sah. The following dialogue took place: "You've stolen no chickens?" "No. that safe you sold me last month you said was a burglar-proof safe. and after examining the pretty trifles. but appearances were against him. my dear." "Then be careful to stick to your own library. The bellboy handed him an envelope and then went away quickly. squire. He was suspected of stealing. and stole a kiss. Much surprised at his discovery. "Isn't she rather young for that sort of thing?" * THE ALLEGED HUMORISTS "I can read my husband like a book. The guest opened the envelope. and looking rather shocked. sah. "Fo' de Lawd. and I found it cracked this morning and rifled of * * ." "What did she say?" "Will that be all?" * NO KICK COMING _Merchant:_ Look here. if you'd said ducks you'd 'a' had me. the youngest member of a large family. picked up a powder-puff. As he stepped out of the dock he stopped before the justice and said with a broad grin." * * * A negro was brought before a justice of the peace." The man was discharged.of bed and unlocked the door. He seemed more interested in the contents of the baby's basket than in the baby." * * * A little boy. sah.
no! Square toes--must have square toes. you see." "I shall never smile again. three dozen pairs were brought and shown him. and his feet were big in proportion. * CONSERVATIVE He was a stout man. "Nonsense!" ejaculated the vicar. "No. But. _Manager:_ Why did you go to all that trouble? I could have given you a certificate saying that you never could act. I'm sure. two dozen. 2. A dozen. "But. Keep on smiling. he came across a pale-looking man lying in a cot. isn't that proof that you've had a burglar? * NO NONSENSE ABOUT IT The new vicar was paying a visit amongst the patients in the local hospital. "I'm very sorry to have troubled you. "It's through smiling at another chap's girl that I'm here now. and when he came into the boot shop to buy another pair. When he entered Ward No. too. sir. my man." * TOO TRUE _Screen Actress:_ I have a certificate from my doctor saying that I cannot act to-day." replied the youth. he remarked in cheering tones: "Never mind. as he got up and prepared to leave the shop. I'm still wearing my last season's feet!" * HE HAD HEARD OF THEM * * * * * * * * . "There ain't no nonsense about it!" exclaimed the other. everybody is wearing shoes with pointed toes. and after administering a few words of comfort to the unfortunate sufferer. heavily swathed in bandages. heatedly. square. that's the way in the world." "I'm sorry.its contents. he found he had some difficulty in getting what he wanted. you'll soon be all right. He wore stout boots." he insisted. sadly. _Agent:_ Well. with broad. They are fashionable this season." said the stout man gravely. sensibly-shaped toes. There he stopped.
I used to go about two miles in the jungle. When he returned from an unsuccessful trip he reported: "Yim Yonson say he vill pay ven he sells his hogs. it's fine!" exclaimed Ian." * TRUE TO LIFE Sandy had been photographed." * * * _Mr. "It's awful like ye. An' whit micht the like o' they cost?" "I dinna' ken. skin or pluck it. then cook and eat it. "What's that ye hev there?" he asked. more firmly than ever. and return to the camp under half an hour. what do you want?" _Benny the Bum:_ "I wanna know kin I borry a red lantern off'n you? I find I gotta sleep in the street to-night an' I'll harfta warn the traffic to drive aroun' me. "Whit d'ye think o' it?" "Man. Aye tank that bane in Yanuary." replied Sandy. Did he really say he would pay in January?" "Vell. and as he was looking intently at his "picter" Ian MacPherson came along. saying: "Look at the time you are wasting. you will have heard of the Himalayas?" "Yes." said the boss." "Mon." * * * * * * * . "My photygraph. "It's just like ye. Goodsole:_ "Well." * WHAT DID HE MEAN? A merchant in a Wisconsin town who had a Swedish clerk sent him out to do some collecting. "I hinna' paid yet. Going to him. showing it proudly. "Of course." replied the young soldier. he showed him how to make a quick-cooking fire. in great admiration. tae." said the clerk. "he said it bane a dam cold day ven you get that money. shoot my food." said Ian. Yim Olson he vill pay ven he sell his wheat and Bill Pack say he vill pay in Yanuary. "and also of Ananias and George Washington." replied Sandy. The captain saw a young soldier trying to cook his breakfast with a badly-made fire. sir." Then he unwisely added." "Well. aye tank so. When I was in the Himalayas I often had to hunt my breakfast. "that's the first time Bill ever set a date to pay.It was company field training.
" he answered. and the bathroom tap is on fire. one of the boys went to his professor. I don't think I should have a zero on this examination." "Ever made any mistakes?" "Bless yer. "Wouldn't you like to look at some nice thimbles?" "I should say not!" "They're fine. guv'nor. Moike?" "A spade. "but we do not have any mark lower than that." "Oh. approaching a glum-looking man at one of the desks.WHAT HE PREFERRED "And did you say you preferred charges against this man?" asked the Judge. "Are you the plumber?" he inquired of a grimy-looking person who was tinkering with the pipes. I suppose it is quite all right." replied the professor. "Been in the trade long?" "'Bout a year." * * * During the period after the university examinations. I imagined you had connected up the wrong pipes." * * * The long-suffering professor smothered his wrath and went down into the cellar. began with an ingratiating smile: "I'm selling thimbles to raise enough money to----" "Out with you." interrupted the man. when an unusually large number of students flunked." "I know it. then. . "Yes." the boy continued." was the quick reply of the man to whom money was owed. looking over his gold-rimmed spectacles. and I'd like to make a sale. Your Honour. sir. "I prefer the cash!" "Wot was the last card Oi dealt ye. no." "Oi knew ut! Oi saw ye spit on yer hands before ye picked it up. "No. for the chandelier in the drawing-room is spraying like a fountain." * * * A bright little newsie entered a business office and. guv'nor. and said: "I don't think this is fair. guv'nor.
well." * * * The lady was waiting to buy a ticket at the picture show when a stranger bumped her shoulder. you can't help it! You're doin' yer bit. "that's as much as sayin' ye hav'na' enough mulk. "a'carrying of two lots o' wood--one in yer cart an' the other under yer blinkin' 'at!" * SCOTCHED! A parsimonious farmer notorious for the small rations he doled out to his employees. said to a farmhand eating his breakfast. "If Ah falls overboard. the boy answered: "Use it for a hat." she said." * * * Sam." "You are in no danger. you an' yer 'orse and yer blankety cabs all over age!" "You're doin' yer bit. on board the transport. sir." he ruminated.Turning in his chair to fully face the lad. Ah suttinly will go down at 'tenshun. too." * BLOOD RELATIONS _Actor:_ "Are these poor relations of yours blood relations?" _Fulpurse:_ "Yes. "Well. feeling it was done intentionally." The farmer stared at him. had just been issued his first pair of hobnails. "don't eat me up. there's a fly in yer parritch." replied Jock gloomily." "That disna' matter. She glared at him." he growled. The cart-driver said. ain't yer?" was the cabby's rejoinder. "it'll no' droon. the grouch caustically inquired: "What 'n seven kinds of blue blazes do you think I want with a thimble?" Edging toward the door to make a safe getaway. "One thing suah." * * . "Jock. they are ever bleeding me. with mock sympathy: "Oh." * * * * * There had been a collision near Euston Station between a timber-cart and a cab. "What do ye mean?" he asked angrily. "I am a Jewess.
Newlywed:_ "What does that inscription mean on that ring you gave me. a mason. "Why weren't you at church this morning?" was the first question of the spiritual adviser." answered Angus." was the answer."Oh." replied his provision merchant suavely. pleasantly. "Then why in thunder don't you sell it?" asked Grumpy. "I couldn't come. "Supply in every day. if she attempts to be skittish I just threaten to publish the photographs of her two sons who are lieutenants in the army. when he suddenly ran into the boss. who is the father of a year-old youngster. * HOW HE DID IT _First Theatrical Manager:_ "Do you have any trouble with the girl who is playing the flapper in your new show?" _Second Theatrical Manager:_ "No.' my dear!" _Mrs." * THE CONSUMER INFLAMED "Ever get any nice butter?" queried old Grumpy." * THE WHOLE TRUTH Angus. but I didna' want tae see ye. was slipping out of the yard to get a "refresher" during working hours. met his pastor on Sunday afternoon. "there's mair than enough for all the parritch I have. "I wis looking for ye." * THE BRUTE! _Mrs. Newlywed:_ "'Faithful to the last. "were you looking for me?" "Ay. "I had to stop at home and mind the * * * * * * * * * * . Archie?" _Mr." replied Jock still more gloomily." * REALITY A man. "Hallo!" said the boss. Newlywed:_ "Oh! how could you? You always said I was the first.
" remarked Brown." said the pastor.'" * SUSPICIOUS It was while on manoeuvres in rural England. our nurse is ill. this baby wears gloves." "That's no excuse. "are you quite certain that this is the man who shot your bird? Will you swear to him?" "No." * A LEVEL-HEADED CAR _Irate Motorist:_ "Say. "Believe me. considerably nettled." replied the prisoner in heartfelt tones. mum. "That so?" asked Smith." retorted the C. next Sunday I'll bring him to church with me and see how you like it. and it didn't seem sense nohow to think the bird committed suicide. "but I will say he's the man I suspect o' doing it." said the commanding officer to the farmer who brought the accusation." said one kindly lady. "My good man." replied the farmer. then I see 'im putting the chicken in his knapsack." "That's not enough to convict a man. the next job I pull." replied the sturdy yeoman." * PURE CARELESSNESS It was visiting day at the prison and the uplifters were on deck. this darned car won't climb a hill! You said it was a fine machine!" _Dealer:_ "I said: 'On the level it's a good car. I won't do that. * * * * * * * * . my man. "It isn't? Well." * A WONDER! "That fellow Jones is a hard-headed cuss. then I heerd the gun go off. "it was this way--I see 'im on my property with a gun. "I hope that since you have come here you have had time for meditation and have decided to correct your faults." "I have that..baby. O. "What raised your suspicions?" "Well. "Look here. and a soldier was being tried for the shooting of a chicken on prohibited ground.
every one of them. and said. if ye was half a woman I would!" * REVENGE IS SWEET "Yes. she was trying to mount the steps of a Dublin tramcar. "Yes. "When there's a good stiff wind blowing we set them to clean the outsides of the windows on the eighth floor!" * * * * * * * * . "Why. said. "It's my rubber 'eel pads that's causing that noise!" * HALF AND HALF Mrs. laden with parcels and packages. the waiters have all been non-coms." "And have you any former military police?" he was asked. he could read a patent medicine almanac and not have a solitary symptom of some disease. Goodsoul wants to go home. Murphy. "Aw wish tha would gie up sucking thi teeth. a diminutive little chap." The little conductor calmly replied: "Shure. it's so rude when people are about!" "Don't thee talk so silly. Mrs. angrily. Muggins:_ "Hardly! The only umbrella I have got has her husband's name on the handle." * IN A FIX _Mrs. Muggins:_ "It's raining. for she turned to him. with a glance of withering scorn: "If ye was half a man ye would have helped me up. "all our employees are former Service men. The reception clerk is an old infantry man." replied Brown. Can't I let her have yours?" _Mr." he replied joyously." he replied in aggrieved tones. Helplessly looking on." * SUCKED! It was a very wet night. and I have no umbrella to lend her except my new guinea one. stood the conductor. the house doctor was a base hospital surgeon. and Mrs. Murphy is very fat. having reached the platform. so Bill and his sweetheart decided to visit the picture palace."Yes. who is manager of a new seaside hotel. On the way she evidently was annoyed with her lover. and the other day. the house-detective was an intelligence man." proudly announced the ex-captain. the chef was a mess-sergeant. even the pages were cadets.. ma'am.
" * BLACK SUPERSTITION _Architect:_ "Have you any suggestions for the study. I understand. Mr. he discovered that he wanted to go to bed early. "Mrs. but he couldn't remember what it was until he had sat up over an hour trying to think. Great thinkers. a traveller asked a youngster if it was deep. and the rider started to cross. are generally found in a brown study." replied the boy. Could you swear to the man?" "I did. eagerly. * * * * * * * * ." "And did he finally remember it?" "Yes." returned the complainant. "No." said the judge. "that this is the person who knocked you down with his motor-car." * A FUTURE FINANCIER "Ma. the other night when he got home he knew there was something he wanted to do. "but he only swore back at me and drove on. isn't he?" "Extremely so. Quickrich?" _Quickrich:_ "Only that it must be brown. bursting into the house. Here's an apple. but soon found that he and his horse had to swim for their lives." exclaimed young Teddie. and worth sixpence at least!" * A BAD CASE "Rather absent-minded. sonny.* NO EFFECT * * "You tell me. ma! When she showed me the penny I told her that what you said was something awful. for being such a wise little lad!" "I should think I am. Why. Johnson said she would give me a penny if I told her what you said about her!" "I never heard of such a thing!" answered his mother indignantly." * HALF A DUCK DEEP Coming to a river with which he was unfamiliar. "You're a very good boy not to have told! I wouldn't have her think I even mentioned her.
"Look here. Herbert?" she asked. handing back the cash. however. At the last moment. it had four aces in it." * * * Young Harold was late for Sunday-school and the minister inquired the cause. and displayed two lovely-looking black-and-blue eyes." "And you foretold that from his hand?" "Yes. "although I had an experience last night which might be considered a remarkable example of palmistry. "I was going fishing. "I'll make you a present of the beef." he answered. but father wouldn't let me. and received his money without another look at his customer. "Did he explain the reason why he would not let you go?" "Yes. He said there wasn't bait enough for two." was the reply." "Very well." The butcher cut off the meat. "it only takes grandfather's ducks up to their middles!" * COULDN'T RESIST IT "Look here." replied the reverend gentleman. you have the beef. I have the eyes. not much. Do you think you can sell me a pound or so without asking how I got ornamented?" "I'll do my best. as he entered a butcher's shop. "Oh. Before he left the room he had a nice little sum handed to him. "And fresh beef is good for black eyes." responded the butcher. I happened to glance at the hand of a friend." * * * * * "Do you know anything about palmistry." he said. the old Adam proved too strong for him." . "you have fresh beef for sale?" "I have. Now tell me all about the fight." announced the lad.When the traveller reached the other side he turned and shouted: "I thought you said it wasn't deep?" "It isn't. sir. "That's the right kind of a father to have. and I immediately predicted he would presently become the possessor of a considerable amount of money." began the youth. sir. is it not?" "It is.
" "Trousers are what?" "Frayed on account of the dog." said the lady in the tramcar. and kick because the coffee is cold?" "Why." replied his wife. and hubby exclaimed: "What would you do if I were one of those husbands who get up cross in the morning." * * * _Mrs." replied Tramp No. Newlywed:_ "Oh." * * * "Goin' in that house over there?" said the first tramp. bang the things about. 2. "'Fraid on account of the dog?" "Me trousers are. severely. Jack. you left the kitchen door open and the draught has shut my cookery book. "It does at home. so that now I haven't the faintest idea what it is I'm cooking. "why don't you get up and give your seat to your father? Doesn't it pain you to see him reaching for the strap?" "Not in a car." "Sh' no ushe! My wife wouldn't let me--hic--keep it in th' house." * HER SOFT ANSWER They had had their usual altercation over the breakfast table." said Bobby." * A QUESTION OF LOCALITY "Bobby.* * * "My good man. I ain't goin' there any more. guv'nor. "I tried that house last week. "I should make it hot for you!" * HE WAS WRONG _Prison Visitor:_ "Am I right in presuming that it was your passion for strong drink that brought you here?" _Prisoner:_ "I don't think you can know this place. you had better take the trolley car home. It's the * * * * * * .
Rastus from the rear of the court room." * DECLINED WITH THANKS * * * * * * * * * * . and what good is it to me now whin oive me new job av night watchman an' slape in the day toimes?" * SHE COULD USE HIM "Rastus. "Do you put in equal sums?" "Oh! I don't put in anything." answered his proud parent. "We have a joint account in the bank. for instance." said the judge sternly. "We're getting on fine!" exclaimed the young wife. and for this fight I'm going to send you away for a year at hard labour. Jedge. you see the steam coming out of that kettle. my son. "can you explain philosophy to me?" "Of course I can." was the explanation." * NICE She had only been married a month. or for what reason it does so. when her friend called to see how she was getting on. "will yo' Honah jes' split dat sentence? Don't send him away from home. "Tom puts it in. it's such fun to pay bills by cheque." "What do you mean by joint account?" asked the caller. "Natural philosophy." interrupted Mrs. papa." chirped little Horatio knowingly." said Little Horatio. and----" "Oh! but I do. but let dat hard labour stand." * OPENING FATHER'S EYES "Papa.last place on earth I'd come to if I was looking for anything to drink. is the science of cause and reason. "you're plain no-account and shiftless. "The reason the steam comes out of the kettle is so that ma can open your letters without you knowing it." "Please. and I draw it out!" * NOT NEEDED _O'Grady:_ "And why do you want to sell your nightshirt?" _Pat:_ "Shure. but you don't know why. Now.
" said the youthful mariner. yet their conversation stamped them as seasoned film fans. you little silly. what time does the twelve o'clock train leave?" "Twelve o'clock.'" "Pooh! Don't cry. Needless to say." said one." "Thanks very much. you'll jolly well tell him to buy a copy of 'Where's Which. a great light dawning on him. after thinking matters over. He firmly believed in that quaint and worn-out saying. the first morning he waited until four o'clock before he called him for breakfast. early to rise. and the tiny blonde expressed regret that the recent German importations had had their titles changed for American consumption." "All right. big fellow." * * * * * * * The two flappers at the Strand seemed barely in their 'teens. "Early to bed. "just because I couldn't find him his copy of 'Who's Who. "Get out of there quick if you want anything to eat.' think what a hit it would have made!" . "If they had only called that picture 'Du Barry' instead of 'Passion." * MANAGING THE MANAGERS This conversation was overheard in the corridor of the offices of a large firm. When you've been here six weeks. After many trials he secured a strapping. "Twelve pounds. how much does a six-pound shell weigh?" "Ah." He couldn't get along at all with the modern type of farmhands. the speakers were lady clerks-"He's given me such a fearful telling-off. and resolved to keep that hand at any cost. then. "but I never eat anything just before going to sleep. You've got to manage him. They were discussing titles of pictures in general. "Well. Accordingly." the gob confessed. "I don't know. Brown decided to reform. "How much does a six-pound shell weigh?" he asked. like I have.' and find his old 'Who's Who' himself!" * A GREAT LIGHT The skipper was examining an ambitious gob who wanted to be a gunner's mate. So.Farmer Brown was an old-fashioned farmer." said the new hand.
and was told to stand over with the Congregationalists. "A Ford." The next in line testified that he owned a Buick. and remember his misery no more. Finally a meek little individual came along. and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. Peter said. "All right." Never suspecting that his vivacious son and heir had found the memorandum in his study on the previous night.Her bobbed-hair companion tossed her head and scoffed: "Don't you believe it. Behind him was the owner of a Dodge. "You just think you own a car." said St. "What kind of a car do you own?" was the question." * * * . To the first applicant St." was the answer. the absent-minded clergyman turned to the place and read aloud these words of Solomon: "Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish. had diabolically changed the chapter and verse numerals to indicate a very different text." was the reply. $2000 to have it looked up and $5000 to have it hushed up. and. You go over there with the Christian Scientists." * * * _The Aristocrat_ (_returning to school_): My ancestors came over with William the Conqueror. There's millions of folks never heard of Du Barry. consulting his memorandum. "What kind of a car do you own?" "A Packard. _The New Girl:_ That's nothing! _My_ father came over in the same boat with Mary Pickford! * * * It was Judgment Day. knowing that his papa had composed a sermon celebrating the increased severity of dry law enforcement. and throngs of people were crowding around the Pearly Gates trying to convince St." announced the absent-minded clergyman. Let him drink and forget his past poverty. but every one knows about passion. Peter. "the sixth and seventh verses of the thirty-first chapter of Proverbs." * * * "We will take as our text this morning. Peter that they were entitled to enter Heaven. who was ordered to stand with the Baptists." * * * "You don't mean to say it cost you $7000 to have your family tree looked up?" "No. "you go over there with the Presbyterians.
he is a butcher who has been arrested three times for profiteering. mon. You see." said Sandy. * * * _Boss:_ What do you mean by such language? Are you the manager here or am I? _Jones:_ I know I'm not the manager._The Housewife:_ My goodness! I don't believe you've washed yourself for a year. if you're not the manager." * WITH A RESERVATION * * * * can walk to the side of a stage. weel. I only washes before I eats. and is from this window!"' * * * * . my boy. "d'ye see yon field of corn?" "I do. and observed: "Well. 'What a lovely view there * "Is she making a rich marriage?" "I should hope to tell you. a lot of theatrical odds and ends. _The Cynic:_ Glass! My dear sir. then. a diamond will even make an impression on a woman's heart. why do you talk like a blamed idiot? * "Pa. Sandy. * * * _The Professor:_ A diamond is the hardest known substance. is a person who into the wings at a group of other number of bored stage hands. and a exclaim. _The Hobo:_ Just about that. Why don't you stand up straight." said the laird. like me?" "Eh. what's an actor?" "An actor." replied Sandy. an' that the empty yins stand up." * SANDY SCORED A pompous Scottish laird met a farmer one morning. you're getting very bent. "Ah. _The Boss:_ Very well. inasmuch as it will cut glass. peer actors waiting for their cues. "ye'll notice that the full heids hang down.
"there is something I want to tell you--something that I----" "What is it?" asked the girl." sighed the young man." he said awkwardly. and _L_3 10_s. ma'am." replied Belinda. called the attention of the Jewess to a watch on a shelf behind her. and. "Never mind._. and his face turned to dull purple. marked respectively _L_5. and departed. not caring for the watch now shown him. and told her father on his return. if he wasn't too much like you!" * TOO SMART A Chinaman entered a jeweller's in Liverpool and asked to be shown some "welly good watches. and laid them in a row on the counter. my tear. "that is. being absent. Soon the girl discovered the deception. "No. "dose vatches cost all de same brice--two pound." "Your head?" "Yes. who got out three watches. after looking very closely at them. but vat a scoundrel dat Chinaman must be!" * OLD ENOUGH TO KNOW THAT "Are all flowers popular?" asked the teacher." said he. ma'am. as she leaned back in her chair."Miss Smith--Belinda. "What flowers are not popular?" "Wall-flowers. The Chink. with a smile. a Jew. The young man drew a long breath. quite calmly. I takee cheapee watch. passionately. "It is a question which is very near to any heart. in the place of the lower-priced one. yer honour. _L_4._." The proprietor. said: "Me no likee that." paid _L_3 10_s." replied one of the bright little girls. yes. "Could you--do you think you could ever marry a man like me?" "Oh." * NATIVE BORN "He hit me on de koko." * * * * * * . as she turned to obtain the watch he placed the higher-priced watch. the prospective customer was attended to by his daughter. with a bored expression on her face. yer honour.
I never wuz out of dis country in me life. the bright-eyed son ef the pastor." * MIGHT HAVE BEEN WORSE The maiden of. was much upset. then." she replied." "Yes'm." "What does it say. he said I was one of the best men his firm had ever turned out. "I have told you the story of Jonah and the whale. it's better than having her tell lies about you. after a moment's reflection."Why don't you speak the English language?" "I do. "it teaches that you can't keep a good man down." * GOOD OR BAD TURN? "Did your late employer give you a testimonial." * THE JONAH "Now." agreed the other. "but I think I could get ye some poached salmon. sorr. yer honour." "That's pretty frank!" exclaimed the friend. wasn't it unladylike of her?" "It certainly was rude. then?" "Why. Yesterday she actually told me I was nothing but a hopeless old maid. "Yes." * * * * * * * * * * * . children. Quoth she to a younger friend: "Kate talks so outrageously. Jack?" "Yes. you may tell me what this story teaches. er--forty or so. Willie. "We haven't any eggs." said the Sunday-school teacher. Tom." * THE SUBSTITUTE A tourist at an hotel in Ireland asked the girl who waited at the table if he could have some poached eggs. But the way employers look at it when I apply for a job make one think there's something wrong with it." said Willie. "Still.
fully aware that my father is a millionaire something like ten times over. anxiously." "Then. "am I the first man you have ever kissed?" "William. will I be able to play the piano?" "Certainly you will. "before we go any further I would like to ask you a few questions. "Doctor." he asked." "You know that I have a quarter of a million dollars in cash in my name at the bank?" "Y-yes. aren't you?" "Y-yes. talk sense! What difference would it make to you if I had been kissed by a thousand men before I met you?" * A MAGIC HEALER During an exciting game of football a player had two fingers of his right hand badly smashed." he asked." replied the American girl." the doctor assured him." "My horses and motor-cars are worth seventy-five thousand dollars?" "Y-yes. doctor." * SHE TOOK THEM "I don't know whether I like these photos or not. no doubt. as he drew his fiancee closer to him. for goodness' sake. no doubt. and on his way home from the ground he dropped into the doctor's to have them attended to. somewhat testily." "That my diamonds are insured to the value of a quarter of a million dollars?" "Y-yes. * * * * . that when he dies all of his vast fortune will be left to me?" "Y-yes.TALKING SENSE "Darling. "When this hand of mine heals." "And own two and a half million dollars' worth of property?" "Y-yes." said the young woman. "Then you're a wonder." "You understand. I never could before. You are.
pa?" _Pa:_ "An echo. One little girl spoke up and said: "Yes'm. is the only thing that can deprive a woman of the last word. We all ought to be wealthy. "you kept telling me not to watch the clock during office hours. Uncle?" he asked. and the wealthy starvin' like us! * * * ." * BUT HE'S ON HIS WAY Uncle Tom arrived at the station with the goat he was to ship north. my son. and I got so I didn't watch it at home either. you must remember. "that your face is not at all plain." said the wily photographer. "It's like this."They seem rather indistinct. but the freight agent was having difficulty in billing him. "What's this goat's destination. when it is a cold day. "Suh?" "I say. suh. there didn't ought to be no poor." * * * * * * * "Why is it you never get to the office on time in the morning?" demanded the boss angrily." * HER MATCH _Tommy:_ "What's an echo." "But. boss. dat iggorant goat done completely et up his destination. "Dat ornery goat!" he exploded wrathfully. A bit of frayed cord was all that remained." * * * * * _Bolshie Tubthumper:_ Yaas." * SCIENTIFIC PROOF One day a teacher was having a first-grade class in physiology. madam. She asked them if they knew that there was a burning fire in the body all of the time. what's his destination? Where's he going?" Uncle Tom searched carefully for the tag. I can see the smoke." explained the tardy one. "Yo' know.
" "H'm. feyr!" "A s'pose ye've a deal o' prescribin' tae dae fer coolds an' sair throats?" "Ay!" "An' what dae ye gin'rally gie fer a sair throat?" "Naethin'." said the father. what will be the result? _Alfred:_ They'll think they can lick me! * A NATURAL PICTURE A man and his eldest son went to have their photographs taken together. if you are always kind and polite to your playmates." * * * * * * * * * . An old Scotsman. As an alternative he hung about for a day and a half outside the local doctor's establishment. a'm thinking!" * DREW BLANK The MacTavish was not a mean man." * NOTHING TO SMILE AT A Londoner was telling funny stories to a party of commercial men. and no matter how loud the laughter. Finally he managed to catch the great man. "it would make a more natural picture if he put it in my pocket. but it wid need tae hae a finer point than ony o' yer stories." A voice from behind the paper replied: "Ay. "It will make a better picture if you put your hand on your father's shoulder. "I dinna' want a sair throat. So. apparently took not the smallest notice. he just knew the value of money. went on quietly reading his paper." replied the canny old doctor. man._Sunday School Teacher:_ Now. when the MacTavish developed a sore throat he meditated fearfully upon the expenditure of a doctor's fee. until at last he said: "I think it would take an inch auger to put a joke into a Scotsman's head. and the photographer said to the young man. doctor! Hoo's beez-ness wi' ye the noo?" "Oh. "Say. Alfred. feyr. This exasperated the story-teller. sitting in a corner seat. No.
ma'am! But. * * * * * * * * * "Daughter.A FRIEND IN NEED What true friendship consists in depends on the temperament of the man who has a friend. He never asked me to lend him a cent. Why. There was a true friend. daughter. Scroggs. sternly. the usually cold-blooded Squire Tightfist was much affected. papa." * READY TO JOIN _Minister:_ Would you care to join us in the new missionary movement? _Miss Ala Mode:_ I'm crazy to try it. "You thought a great deal of him. "How much is it. I'll have no daughter of ." the lady of the house replied. It is related that at the funeral of Mr. missus. I heard him say he felt like kicking you into the middle of next week. "Yas." * WHAT HE PREFERRED He was one of the few remaining old-time darkies. though I knew well enough he was starving to death. "Yo' say how much? Jest whatever yo' say. ma'am. Is it anything like the fox trot? * HELPFUL PA! _He:_ Do you think your father would be willing to help me in the future? _She:_ Well." said the old man. "I positively forbid you marrying this young scapegrace! He is an inveterate poker player!" "But. He had finished the odd jobs for which he had been employed. "poker playing is not such an awful habit. appeared at the back door. and. "Thought a great deal of him? I should think I did. uncle?" he was asked. I suppose?" some one asked him. hat in hand. Ah'd rather hab de seventy-five cents yo 'would gimme dan de fifty cents Ah'd charge yo'." tearfully protested Alicia Hortense. at your own club----" "That's where I got my information. who died extremely poor. but I would rather you'd say how much." "Oh.
'awfully' is quite wrong." * NOT STRONG ENOUGH Muriel. * * * * * * * * * . and I've frequently pointed out that 'just' is wrongly used in such a sentence. Smith to her three-year-old son. "you don't want to be a dirty boy." came the reply." "That's better. dear." corrected her governess. please. daddy!" he cried. "But. "and have your face washed. "I know why you're washing!" * THEY WILT "Which weeds are the easiest to kill?" asked young Flickers of Farmer Sassfras." Upon this persuasion he gave way." "Don't want to be washed." * * * "I think. and Mrs. I'll take one of the children to the park with me. "Oh. "You have only to say 'Wilt thou?' and they wilt. was taken by her governess to have tea with an aunt. "Ha. Presently she began to eat a piece of very rich cake. I just love this chocolate cake!" she exclaimed. and the time had arrived for preparing for the visit. it is very good. approvingly. dear. dear. Now repeat your remark. "But it sounds as if I was talking about bread. aged four." replied the farmer. A few minutes later he stood watching his father washing." protested the little girl. and was washed. "Widow's weeds.mine bringing home a man that I can't beat with a flush. "it is wrong to say you 'love' cake. dearie. as he watched that good man at his work. Which one do you think would go best with this dress?" * HE KNEW Mr. "It's awfully nice. do you? I want my little boy to have a nice. Again. and fours." "Muriel. 'very' would be more correct. a full house. Smith had been invited to a friend's for tea. clean face for the ladies to kiss." said the governess." Muriel obediently repeated: "I like chocolate cake." said mother. ha. Lucille." said Mr. "Come along.
" he replied. "He came round to my place and said his mother wanted her window mended. "Did your mother try to stop you marrying me?" he demanded. mum. aren't you?" The man shook his head.WHY HE PICKED PICTISH An English mother was visiting her son at college. who at once set to work. mother. swung round on her quickly. You're his mother. "Oh. and never married you!" Hubby. "But your son broke it. I've broken your window. * JUSTICE AT LAST It was the usual domestic storm. "Why Pictish?" "Only five words of it remain. dear. and at last found voice. silent man. "Never seen him before. taking his hoop. The lady of the house waited with anger in her eyes for the appearance of the hoop's owner. "Please. the man said: "That'll be three shillings. * PLAYED THEM BOTH UP A small boy was playing with an iron hoop in the street. "Pictish?" said the puzzled lady. The window finished. "Well." "Three shillings!" gasped the woman." she said. He arrived. You're his father. dear!" moaned wifey in tears. dear! oh." he said. * * * * . aren't you?" And the good woman could only shake her head. "and father's come to mend it. ran off. while the boy. "what languages did you decide to take?" "I have decided to take Pictish. for once words failed her. Wifey nodded violently. The little fellow with the hoop. when suddenly it bounced through the railings and broke the kitchen window of one of the areas." Sure enough the boy was followed by a man. the strong. "I wish I'd taken poor mother's advice. A look of deep remorse crossed hubby's face." he said." he said.
" * * * "Why do you object to children in your apartment house?" "As a matter of kindness. said: "Nigger. peering down at his mate. "Oh. I've been promising the debil a man a long time. who like many others. As soon as the victim had recovered from his momentary daze he walked over to the edge of the bin and. aye. finds himself rather short of cash just now. The one inside picked up a large lump and heaving it carelessly into the air." replied the pawky one." he cried. and you certainly does resemble my promise. one down in the bin throwing out the coal and the other wielding a shovel." * * * * * "And would you love me as much if father lost all his money?" "Has he?" "Why. "you were all right then." * CAUSTIC A good story is told of a pawky old Scot. and to suggest that he had better bring it down a bit or clear it altogether. "I'm L60 short am I? Will ye just look up an' tell me hoo my account stood in June?" "Oh. People who are raising families can't be expected to pay the rentals I require." came the answer. His account was L60 over drawn. "Did I hit you?" "You sho' did."Great Scott." The other one looked surprised. "how I wronged that woman!" * IN ORDER TO BE FILLED Two negroes were working in a coal-bin in a Mississippi town. "And I jes' wants to tell you. and the banker rang him up on the telephone to tell him about it. you had L250 to your credit. struck the other a resounding blow on the head. how come you don't watch where you throws dat coal? You done hit me smack on de haid." * * . darling. no. in broken tones." "Of course I would." the banker said.
"I suppose." he remarked to a native onlooker. "Let me congratulate you. He singled out one of the men in the cashier's cage." * * * _First Sailor_ (_searching vainly for his ship after a few hours' leave_): "But she was 'ere when we went ashore. wasn't she?" _Second Sailor:_ "It's them blokes at Washington. with conscious pride. and when they were delivered they were empty. the Irishman asked . * * * The newly-elected president of a banking institution was being introduced to the employees. b. etc." _The Lawyer:_ "Well. They've started scrappin' the fleet. But hereafter be more careful." "Good." * NOTHING TO FEAR _Irate Golfer:_ "You must take your children away from here. what do you expect?" _The Client:_ "Full of booze. madam. "and in all that time I only made one slight mistake." said the cashier's assistant." replied the native. an' begun on us. stranger. "and it ain't worth drinkin' when ye get it."Aye." _Mother:_ "Now don't you worry--they can't 'ear nothin' new--their father was a sergeant-major. 'e was!" * MISLED _The Client:_ "I bought and paid for two dozen glass decanters that were advertised at $16 a dozen. b. Isn't that what f. this is no place for them. "that even in these isolated parts the bare necessities of life have risen tremendously in price?" "Y'er right. o. f." replied the president. questioning him in detail about his work. o." * NOT WORTH MUCH The tourist from the East had stopped to change tires in a desolate region of the far South. means?" * * * * * * * * * During a conversation between an Irishman and a Jew. "I have been here forty years.. an' did I ring you up in June?" was the caustic rejoinder.
" said the mistress. What shall I do?" "But." "Marry him. my dear daughter." "I know that." * * * . and as I have made a little money they will not go penniless to their husbands. madam?" "Life-size. Here's his name on th' sweat band." said the old man to his visitor. will have $5000 with her. too." "What size. We need him badly in our set. as I told you. who is forty. and a really good girl. and the man who takes Eliza. "I am proud of my girls and would like to see them comfortably married. but I swiped his hat an' shoved him off th' steps. you've only known him three weeks. mother." * * * "Yes." said the Jew. "You are getting wise already." * * * "He proposed to me last night. "did you ask every one for cards to-day. I shall give her $3000." and he offered to sell one for ten dollars." * * * "I would like to have a globe of the earth. but on the other hand if I delay in accepting him he might find out some things about me he won't like. the Irishman received a small dried fish. twenty-five years old. He bit into it." "See?" said the Jew. Then comes Bet. "You haven't one about fifty." * * * "Would you marry a man to reform him?" "What does he do?" "He drinks. "we eat a certain kind of fish. girlie. of course. mother. who won't see thirty-five again. I shall give her $1000 when she marries. when they called?" "Yes'm. then exclaimed: "Why. One fellow he wouldn't give me no card. "Because. have you?" * * * "Mary." The young man reflected a moment and then asked. this is only a smoked herring. and find out where he gets it. After paying his money. There is Mary.how it was that the Jews were so wise.
of course. she was in an evening gown." * * * _Interviewer:_ "What sort of girls make the best show-girls?" _Stage Manager:_ "Those who have the most to show. is that you?" _George:_ "Why certainly! Who else you 'shpecting at this timernight?" * * * _She_ (_tenderly_): "And are mine the only lips you have kissed?" _He:_ "Yes." * * * _Farmer:_ "Would you like to buy a jug of cider?" _Tourist:_ "Well--er--is it ambitious and willing to work?" * * * _Papa:_ "Why did you permit young Gaybird to kiss you in the parlor last night?" _Daughter:_ "Because I was afraid he'd catch cold in the hall." * * * _She:_ "What do you mean by kissing me? What do you mean?" _He:_ "Er--er--nothing." * * * _Mrs. I won't have any man kissing me ." _Beau:_ "Stripped?" _Jazz:_ "Yeh." "Then why didn't you marry him?" "I met him again so often." _She:_ "Then don't you dare do it again. Newlywed_ (_on her first day's shopping_): "I want two pieces of steak and--and about half a pint of gravy. and they are the sweetest of all." * * * "It was a case of love at first sight when I met Jack._Wife:_ "George." * * * _Jazz:_ "My girl told me she weighed 120 the other night.
" * "How times have changed!" "Yes?" "Imagine Rosa Bonheur painting a flock of Ford tractors. d'ye hear?" * * * _Foreman:_ "'Ow is it that little feller always carries two planks to your one?" _Laborer:_ "'Cos 'e's too blinkin' lazy to go back fer the other one. The dusky waiter. replied: "Ef youse mean de li'l gal with blue eyes an' fluffy hair." * * * _Lady_ (_in box_): "Can you look over my shoulders?" _Sailor:_ "I've just been looking over both of them." _Sailor Dan:_ "Yes--you seldom see a full-rigged skirt. "Where is my chicken?" he asked somewhat irritably.unless he means business." * * * ." * * * A popular Oklahoma City salesman recently married." * * * _Tramp:_ "Would you please 'elp a pore man whose wife is out o' work?" * * * "I 'ear your 'usband 'as turned Bolshie. not absolootly. an' by gosh they are great. but the fried chicken he had been telling his wife so much about was not in evidence. and was accompanied by his wife as he entered the dining-room of a Texas hotel famed for its excellent cuisine. leaning over and bringing his mouth in close proximity to the salesman's ear. she doan' wo'k heah no mo'. His order was served promptly." * * * * * _Sailor Bill:_ "These New York gals seem to be wearin' sort o' light canvas." "Well. or anything. but 'e 'as a lenin' that way.
Ah makes mah own livin'. "didn't I tell you never to say 'ain't." said his ma. is it? So I'll shust take it off from your next month's salary. turning to a negro chap." . efficiency.'" * * * "Vell. "But. "I've made my vill and left it all to you. mum." remarked Ike. eyeing him suspiciously. Finally. bless you." "That's very good of you." said Sol to his son. Some twenty-odd responded and were being questioned as to qualifications. and whether married or single." said her father impatiently. an' I'm no' gaun tae tackle about a hundred for twa rooms in the High Street. he said: "Ma. "throw your doll on the bed and hurry or we shall be late. naw-sir." * * * A boy and his mother were taking in the circus." "Daddy."Do you really believe in heredity?" "Most certainly I do. That is how I came into all my money. how can you?" reproved the child. I have na' been able tae keep Ten Commandments for a mansion in Heaven. I certainly did. it ain't fair I should pay all dot." * * * "You say you doted on your last mistress?" "Yes. are you married?" Quickly the negro responded: "Naw-sir. it cost a lot of money for the lawyer and fees and things!" "Vell?" said Ike more suspiciously. Ikey. my poy. Looking at the hippopotamus. George. McNab_ (_after having his lease read over to him_): "I will not sign that." * * * An attorney of Los Angeles advertised for a chauffeur. father. "I isn't' that kind of a muvver. "Vell. ain't that the ugliest damn thing you ever saw?" "Bill. boss. Dorothy. he said: "How about you." * * * "Come." * * * _Mr.
" * * * "That you." * * * "It appears to be your record." "Well. should James have said wunst?" "No'm. Mary." * * * "Ethel. dearie? I'm detained at the office on very important business and I may not be home until late. "that you have already been convicted thirty-five times of stealing. You'll come home as early as you can. dearie." . "you seem to be a bright little girl. what is it?" "Please don't draw to any inside straights. let us have it." said the bishop." said the magistrate." * * * "What's the matter with Smith? Got lumbago or spinal curvature or something?" "No. "No woman is perfect." "I won't. can you repeat a verse from the Bible?" "I'll say I can. my dear." * * * _The City Nephew:_ "I'm glad to see Aunt Hetty dresses her hair sensibly instead of wearing those silly puffs over the ears. your honor. he should have said twict." answered Mary. won't you? And John."Then why did you leave her?" "We couldn't continue to be friends on my wages. he has to walk that way to fit some shirts his wife made for him. dear----" "Yes." "I guess that's right. Don't sit up for me." "Leroy." * * * "James. have you whispered to-day without permission?" "Only wunst." _Uncle Talltimber:_ "She tried 'em once an' they got tangled up with the telephone receiver an' she missed more'n half the gossip goin' on over our twenty-party line. mum.
One asked: "Nigger. I hope they'll not be very long wi' the whisky. He showed his visitor the moon through a telescope and asked him what he thought of the satellite. each wearing a new suit. Presently he was heard to remark. darling. "that looks like he always ett at the second table." replied the Scot. who was an enthusiastic golfer." * * * Two darky boys in a Southern city met on the street. how much do they set you back for dem clo's?" "Fo'ty dollahs. "It's a' richt. Talkalot?" "Don't tell me she has lost her voice. as I dinna get on verra weel wi' these mineral waters." * * * Wishing to give his Scotch steward a treat a man invited him to London. and on the night after his arrival took him to a hotel to dine." was the response. Lily don't know how to read." "That's no diff'ence." "But." replied the gaunt Missourian." "No. Still he seemed very downhearted and morose. "Well. "Fo'ty dollahs?" ." * "What are you doing. her husband has lost his hearing. glass after glass of the wine disappearing." * * * An astronomer was entertaining a Scotch friend. "but it's awfu' fu' o' bunkers. Marjory?" "I'se writing a letter to Lily Smif." * * * "Did you hear about the awful trouble that has befallen Mrs. During the early part of the dinner the steward was noticed to help himself very liberally to the champagne." * * * * * "What sort of an appearing man is he?" "Little dried-up feller. you don't know how to write."The Lord is my shepherd--I should worry. mamma.
son. and I don't pay but ten dollahs fuh mine." _Son:_ "Well. the fust big rain yo' gets ketched out in dat coat of yourn is gwine to say. nigger. Somebody shore flimflammed you. you certainly made a fool of yourself! That girl robbed you of every cent you had. "I'se got on a suit w'at's mos' perzactly like yourn. I've powdered it three times. old thing. I haven't any vices. boy. good heavens.'" * * * "Do you think I shall live until I'm ninety. or have you any vices of any kind?" "No. in fact." * * * _Father:_ "Well."Yes." "Do you drink. dad. Madge. doctor?" "How old are you now?" "Forty. f'om now on I'se gwine to be yo' vest. Then straightening up he said: "See here. what do you want to live another fifty years for?" * * * "I say. I loathe smoking. I don't drink. 'Good-by. gamble." ." "Well. Hadn't you better put something on your chest?" "Don't worry. I never gamble. smoke." said the first. it's bitterly cold. sah." * * * The possessor of the forty-dollar suit took hold of one of the coat sleeves of the ten-dollar suit and pulled on it. It stretched. you have to hand it to me for picking them clever." "Look at me. fo'ty dollahs.