Chapter 14

A Revelation.

The little conference at Mr. Furbush's was over, and Mr. Morrison, rising, said slowly:

"I was very sorry to feel it my duty to take part in this matter. Let us forget it, and all be friends. Good-day, Mr. Furbush."

He shook hands with that gentleman, and also with Isaac, both of whom responded with very poor grace.

Then they walked out into the open air. Mr. Morrison, turning to Tony as they reached the sidewalk, remarked:

"My boy, I was glad to see that you exhibited no desire for revenge."

As they walked back toward Mr. Smart's store, the senior Morrison talked earnestly with the stranger, while young Morrison said to Tony:

"Well, good-by, my friend. Father is determined to go back to Boston to-night, and wants me to go with him. I won't forget you."

Morrison gave him a warm pressure of the hand, and then Tony found himself alone. How unutterably lonesome the world seemed to the boy at that moment! and as he walked slowly home he reviewed the events of the last few months.

His winter's work had exceeded his most sanguine expectations, and yet he felt the burden of defeat upon him. When he reached home, his father questioned him closely in regard to what had transpired, all of which he explained minutely.

"The young rascal!" said Job Loring, clenching his hands and frowning. "He got off too easy. He'd orter had a lesson."

"I am satisfied," said Tony. "I think it will be a lesson to him."

Tony was treated with much more consideration than formerly, but somehow it brought him little comfort, and a week dragged slowly by.

Aaron had improved greatly, now that poverty had loosened its grip upon them, and was helping his father fix up around the house, when a stranger came walking up to the door one afternoon.

"Hullo, Job! How are you?" he cried, reaching out his hand.

Tony, who was reading, looked up to see his father shaking hands with the red-whiskered man whom he had such good reason to remember.

The stranger nodded to Tony.

"So you're Job Loring's son, are you?" he said. "I tell you what it is, Job, that chap isn't very big," pointing to Tony, "but he's a boy to be proud of."

After this, he talked in low, earnest tones to Mr. Loring and Aaron, and soon the three started together in the direction of Ashville.

Father and son did not return till nearly dark, and then they came with quick, hopeful tread.

"Amanda," said Mr. Loring, eagerly, "what do you think? I've got every cent o' my pay."

Mrs. Loring stopped her work in surprise.

"I'm glad for Tony's sake," she replied. "Now he can have his money. He's been moping around the house like a shadow."

Mr. Loring looked thoughtful.

"I have been harsh with him sometimes, I s'pose, and I've said lot's o' things ag'in the rich folks that I hadn't orter. There's one decent one, anyway."

"Who's that?" his wife wanted to know.

"Mr. Morrison."

Tony came into the room at this moment, and caught the sound of the name.

"What of him?" he asked.

Then Job Loring told his story:

"That chap who was here to-day worked with me'n Aaron, over on Scaly Brook last winter, and the land we trespassed on belonged to this Mr. Morrison. I didn't know it at the time. Morrison was away, but a lawyer in Ashville advised Smart to take the hull lot o' logs, 'cause they was forfeited. But there was one landin', or brow of logs, that could be proved as come off of our permit, every stick of it, though _I_ didn't know it. This brow was in the way of the others, and some o' the boys attached it for their wages. Then they sent this red-whiskered man through to see what Morrison was going to do about it. He came home himself and agreed to pay every man, and to-day we got it."

Then he turned to Tony.

"How much did you make last winter?" he asked.

"A hundred and thirty-three dollars," replied Tony, omitting the odd cents.

"Four dollars more than Aaron and me," said Mr. Loring.

He got up and paced across the room and back.

"I'll tell you what I'm going to do," he continued, speaking with some effort, "I'm going to pay that all back to you, Tony--every cent of it."

He had expected to see Tony spring to his feet with a great outburst of joy. Instead, he only shook his head and said, slowly:

"I don't want it; you can keep it."

"Well! well! well!"

It was all Job Loring could say.

"You can give me part of it, if you like," said Tony, at length. "I suppose I shall need some clothes."

"And you ain't going to peddling, nor nothing?" queried Mr. Loring.

Again Tony shook his head.

And so the matter was dropped.

Another week went by and Tony was one day walking through Ashville. He had purchased, at the earnest solicitation of his mother, a suit of well-fitting clothes; but he was low-spirited, and in spite of the money he had made, the past winter seemed a sort of failure to him.

Suddenly some one grasped him by the shoulder and a familiar voice shouted in his ear:

"Hello, Tony, how are you? I hardly knew you, with your new toggery on."

Could it be possible? Yes, he was shaking hands with Morrison.

They were near Mr. Smart's hardware store.

"Come inside," said Morrison. "I've got a bit of news to tell you."

They entered. Mr. Smart was nowhere in sight.

"Right into the office," continued the young man, gaily. "Now, no backwardness to-day. Sit right down, while I spin my yarn, as the sailors say. It was as big a surprise to me as it will be to you."

Tony sank into one of the chairs, while Morrison elevated his feet upon the desk before him.

"Now, are you ready?" he said, with a laugh. "Well, here goes. I worked in this store two years, under this man Smart--and a precious rascal he was, too--and never knew that my father owned this store and everything in it. Mr. Smart had been a clerk for father in Boston, and the object of the deception was to see if I really had any liking for business. And what do you suppose the result is?"

"I don't know," said Tony, feebly.

"I'll tell you," continued Morrison. "I was twenty-one years old yesterday, and I am sole proprietor here."

Tony looked at his companion in a peculiar way; saw how his eyes sparkled and his cheeks flushed with eagerness, and he knew that his heart was light and happy with ambition and hope. But the gulf between them was wider than ever.

"I congratulate you," he said, huskily. "I wish you everything--"

He stopped and rose to his feet, but Morrison pulled him down into the chair again.

"Don't go yet," he pleaded. "I'm not through. Now I want a favor of you. I want you in the store with me. Stop!" he said, imperatively, as Tony attempted to speak. "I know what your objection will be, but it's no use. There are evening schools here in the village, and you can attend them as much as you wish. You are bright and quick; I'll risk you. Mind before muscle, any time."

What could the poor fellow do? Nothing, except to grasp the hand of Morrison and shed tears of gladness, while his lips vainly strove to utter the thankfulness which over-flowed his heart. His wildest dreams were more than realized, and, better than all material advancement, he would not be parted from his friend.

And Morrison never had occasion to regret his offer, for Tony took to the business like a duck to water. A year later, Mr. Morrison, senior, said to Job Loring, who was making some alterations in the rich man's stable:

"A wonderfully smart boy of yours, Mr. Loring. It doesn't seem possible that twelve months can work such a change."

Job ran his great fingers through his shaggy hair, and made answer in a puzzled sort of way:

"It do seem strange, Mr. Morrison--it do, for a fact. I al'ays pitied the little chap, and kep' tellin' him he'd never be any good. But there, it shows that size don't al'ays count, and I wish Aaron could 'a had more brains, even if he didn't have quite so much muscle."

The story of Isaac Furbush's petty pilfering in some way got noised about the village, and it seemed as though the disgrace would ruin his prospects in Ashville, till Tony induced Morrison to give him a job as porter in the store.

Isaac, to whom the bitter lesson had been extremely beneficial, accepted the situation thankfully, and a goodly portion of his superfluous flesh disappeared in his zeal to prove himself worthy of his employer's confidence.

And in the hunting seasons, Morrison and Tony manage to steal away and chase the flying caribou and deer, and more than one lordly moose has been forced to succumb to their prowess and skill.

[THE END.]

A SUBMERGED CITY.

It has happened many times in the history of the world that cities have fallen into decay, and finally disappeared so entirely that their existence has not been suspected by the ordinary traveler.

Nineveh, Babylon and Carthage are the most notable instances of the destruction due to war, pestilence and famine. Sometimes Nature lends a hand, as in the following strange case:

The city authorities of Rovigno, on the peninsula of Istria, in the Adriatic Sea, have discovered a little south of the peninsula the ruins of a large town at the bottom of the sea.

It has been observed for some years that fishermen's nets were sometimes entangled in what appeared to be masses of masonry, of which fragments were brought up from the sea-bed. A year or two ago a diver declared that he had seen walls and streets below the water.

The city authorities recently decided to investigate. They sent down a diver who, at the depth of eighty-five feet, found himself surrounded on the bottom of the sea by ruined walls. He says he knows they were the work of man. He is a builder by trade, and he recognized the layers of mortar.

Continuing his explorations, he traced the line of walls, and was able to distinguish how the streets were laid out. He did not see any doors or window openings, for they were hidden by masses of seaweed and incrustations.

He traced the masonry for a distance of one hundred feet, where he had to stop, as his diving cord did not permit him to go further. He had proved beyond a doubt that he had found the ruins of an inhabited town, which, through some catastrophe, had been sunk to the bottom of the sea.

Some people think that they identify this lost town with the island mentioned by Pliny the Elder, under the name of Cissa, near Istria. This island cannot be found now, and it is thought the submerged town may have been a settlement on the island that so mysteriously disappeared.

ST. NICHOLAS.

A very pretty legend from Germany tells how St. Nicholas came to be considered the patron saint of children. One day, so the story goes, he was passing by a miserable house, when he heard the sound of weeping within.

Stepping softly to the open window, he heard a father lamenting the wretched fate to which his three lovely young daughters were doomed by poverty. St. Nicholas' gentle heart was touched. He returned at night and threw in at the window three bags of gold sufficient for the dowry of the girls. His kindness to them, and to many others equally wretched, made him regarded as the especial benefactor of children.

In Russia he is reverenced as the chief saint of the Greek Church, but in Germany, Switzerland, Holland and Austria it is as the children's saint that he is chiefly honored. The good Dutch burghers who founded New Amsterdam placed the little settlement under his care. It has grown to be the great city of New York, but his name is no less honored in the splendid metropolis than in the humble Dutch town.

* * * * *

PUZZLEDOM.

*No. DLXVI.*

Original contributions solicited from _all_. Puzzles containing obsolete words will be received. Write contributions on one side of the paper, and apart from all communications. Address "Puzzle Editor," GOLDEN DAYS, Philadelphia, Pa.

ANSWERS TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

No. 1. Quiet--quite.

No. 2.

R M A W M I C O S M I T H R A S R A C H I L L A S W O R L D L Y S A L L Y S A Y S

No. 3. P-reserved.

No. 4.

A S T Y S H O E S S E A M A I D B A L L I S T A S C O L L E C T E D L Y

No. 5. Y-our.

No. 6.

R E P U T E S H A R E L I P S I M I L E S C O V E N T S S Y R I N G A P I M E N T O P A R E R G A

No. 7. A very Merry Christmas to all those in our 'Thedom.

No. 8.

M R A S P E T E R R E F U T E R M A T U T I N A L S E T I R E M E R E N E G E S R A M E N T L E S T S

No. 9. The eminent posers.

No. 10.

C A N D L E W A S T E R P A R A D I S E A N B A N I S T E R B E T T E R S E I R D T

NEW PUZZLES.

No. 1. CHARADE.

The glad New Year again is here, With joy and merriment bedight, Let vanish now all worldly fear. _Last_ peace let every heart be light.

This is the time for turning leaves, And living better lives withal, And he who o'er the past year grieves. His wayward thoughts must overhaul.

The youth his diary will grasp, And write _complete_ about his love; He calculates when next he'll clasp Her to his heart and call her dove.

The cashier closes up his books. And feels at ease that he is free: From taint or tarnish of the crooks. To Canada he need not flee.

The plumber also gathers in The surplus from the bygone year; His features wear an unctuous grin, He feels he is without a peer.

And so the happy New Year gives Great pleasure to both great and small; Where'er the human family lives First see we good that comes to all.

_Philadelphia, Pa._ Arty Fishel.

No. 2. INVERTED PYRAMID.

_Across:_ 1. The first day of the year. 2. A poison. 3. Dutch gold. 4. Lit again. 5. Females. 6. A letter.

_Down:_ 1. A letter. 2. A prefix. 3. A pronoun. 4. To growl like a dog (_Obs._) 5. Plants. 6. Enameled (_Obs._) 7. A root. 8. The tail of the hare. 9. A she deer. 10. An article. 11. A letter.

_Bangor, Pa._ T. Hinker.

No. 3. NUMERICAL.

The Christmas season of great joy Comes not to all without alloy. For soon will follow, in its line, The day our bills we 3, 2, 9.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 are they Who view this time without dismay-- Who have no fear to 12, 10, 11, 4-- Dread I.O. U's, given long before.

Such trying times must us befall, Still, a _complete_ we wish to all. And hope you may pull safely through, 8, 1, 7, 6 your bills fall due.

_Philadelphia. Pa._ F. Lasher.

No. 4. STAR.

1. A letter. 2. Behold. 3. Skimmed (_Obs._) 4. To array. 5. The Pope's triple crown. 6. Errors in printing. 7. Purest. 8. While. 9. A letter.

_Chicago, Ill._ U. Neke.

No. 5. TRANSMUTATION.

The clock strikes nine, within the school The children take their seats: Within the corner stands the fool, Him oft the _primal_ beats.

The master sits his desk behind, The lessons now commence: "Of these verbs you will tell the kind, Also the mood and tense."

The sentences he then dictates, The pupils start the task, But soon he spies two boys--two mates-- Who each other answers ask.

He calls the _lasts_ to come to him: A flogging they expect. And, naturally, their eyes grow dim. And heads are not erect.

The master looks them in the eye. "I see you guilty are." And straightway he does make them cry. And badly do they fare.

At last the punishment dost cease, The arm descends no more, But of advice a right long piece He gives to them before

They are allowed to take their seats, With faces red with shame. Such is the punishment of cheats, And they deserve the same.

_Philadelphia, Pa._ O. Range.

No. 6. HEXAGON.

1. An East Indian fruit obtained from a species of cypress. 2. Armor for the arm. 3. The ends of an elliptical arch. 4. Narratives. 5. A variety of zeolite of a flesh-red color. 6. Restored the original design of. 7. Moved. 8. English essayist (1671-1729). 9. An adder or serpent (_Prov. Eng._)

_Litchfield, Ill._ Stocles.

No. 7. CHARADE.

We are standing in the doorway, My dearest _prime_ and I; The golden sun is sinking fast, And we must say good-by. Good-by! How can we speak the word So full of bitter pain? My laddie is going o'er the sea. We may ne'er meet again.

God grant the _fine_ may carry him Safe on his quest away, And surely bring him home next year, Till then I'll wait and pray. Again by the door I'm standing, With my love so near to me. For my _prime_ was true, the _fine_ was strong, And our _all_ will ne'er severed be.

_Cambridge, Mass._ Dil I. Gence.

No. 8. HALF SQUARE.

1. Representations (_Obs._) 2. Charcoal. 3. Long measures of one hundred feet. 4. Excrescences growing on a horse's leg. 5. To swell. 6. A bird of ill-omen (_Obs._) 7. A throng (_Obs._) 8. Measures of capacity for liquids (_Roman Antiq._) 9. A title for a person in authority in the East. 10. A Latin preposition. 11. A letter.

_Jersey City, N.J._ Itami.

No. 9. TRIPLE-LETTER ENIGMA.

In "promise wise;" In "different size;" In "endless ties."

A country, governed by an _all_, Is nicely situated, For it has some advantages Which can't be overrated.

DOUBLE-LETTER ENIGMA.

In "knowing looks;" In "reading books;" In "solemn rooks;" In "quiet nooks;" In "line and hooks."

My _all_, you'll find, is quite a good book, By a Scottish author. Now, then, look.

_Rochester, N.Y._ Oregon.

No. 10. INVERTED PYRAMID.

_Across_: 1. Restorations of lost parts of the body (_Surg. Sup._) 2. The quality of being warlike. 3. A fishing boat, built sharp at both ends (_Obs._) 4. Diseases of timber. 5. The kidneys. 6. Gods (_Latin_). 7. A letter.

_Down_: 1. A letter. 2. An abbreviation. 3. To strike with a sharp blow. 4. Angers (_Poet._) 5. The aromatic principle of flowers. 6. Peeped (_Obs._) 7. Small carts used in mines (_Supp._) 8. Italian singer (1824 ----). 9. Blows the nose (_Low_). 10. Suppers. 11. An affix signifying one who. 12. A prefix. 13. A letter.

_Brooklyn, N.Y._ Gemini.

No. 11. TRANSPOSITION.

Little Dick Was very sick From eating _primal_ hard; He went above, Where all is love. And now _last_ his reward.

_Rochester, N.Y._ R.O. Chester.

No. 12. C.C. HEXAGON.

_Across_: 1. An abbreviation. 2. A dish of stewed meat. 3. A small rodent mammal. 4. A kind of cold cream. 5. Polishes. 6. A softening of statement (_Rhet._) 7. Nitrate of potassa. 8. A French article. 9. A letter.

_Down_: 1. Probable. 2. A scale of anything. 3. A fagot of brushwood. 4. Shining. 5. Water passages (_Prov. Eng._) 6. Durations. 7. One who defrauds. 8. Boundaries. 9. Movements.

_Logan, Pa._ H.C. W.

-> Answers will appear in our next issue; solvers in six weeks.

SOLVERS.

Puzzles in "PUZZLEDOM" No. DLX were correctly solved by Goldey and Pen Ledcil, Hello, Irish Foreman, Carl, Nucky and Eskaletta, Carrie Wilmer, Little Rhody, Weesie, R.O. Chester, Lowell, Madeline, Charles Goodwin, Thad R. French, Addle Shun, Ham, Stanna, Viscum, Rosalind, Fred L. Comstock, Romulus, Jim Nast, Windsor Boy, Gemini, Night, Ed U. Kate, Katie O'Neill, John Watson, Dorlo, Auburnian, Olive, Legs, Spider, Theresa, Arty Fished, Joe-de-Joe, Flora Nightingale, M.E.T., Herbie C., Miranda, Alcaeus, Orlando, Mary Roland, Carrie Ketchum, Cypress, Andrew F., Tan, Sir Joseph, Venio Vincere, Flare, Pantagrapher, Lucrezius Borgers, May Le Hosmer and Magnolia, Jack O'Lantern and T. Hinker, Sam Smart, Esq., Osceola and Martin Dale.

COMPLETE LIST.--Goldey and Pen Ledcil.

PALAVER.

Once more we wish to draw the attention of all Puzzlers who favor us with their contributions to a very necessary caution in the selection of the words which they use in the work. Some unscrupulous puzzlers see no objection to using any word, since they are able to make successful combinations. We are of a different mind, in this department. Puzzledom in GOLDEN DAYS has a very varied constituency, which includes old and young, boys and girls, men and women. We intend to keep it a bright, progressive department--above all, clean and without reproach in any particular. Therefore, puzzlers who are given to the use of words of double meaning, or words whose reputation is shady in the slightest respect, so to speak, will please bear this in mind and not in such a way spoil an otherwise excellent piece of work which they may desire to see in our columns.

THAD R. FRENCH.--Your puzzle comes under the above criticism. You are new, however, and we hope you will receive the timely word of advice. If so, you are very welcome to our ranks. Would like to hear again from you.

NEW YEAR'S NICK-NACKS.

--A correspondent wants to know if "fits are hereditary." Any small boy, compelled to wear out his father's old clothes, could tell him they are not.

--There are many shoots in a park of artillery.

--"What are you doing?" demanded a furniture dealer of his clerk, who upset an extension table. "I'm only turning over a leaf, sir."

--City Dame (in the country): "Boy, can't you get me some cat-tails?" Country Boy: "Yes'm. Long ones?" City Dame: "Oh, long or short, whichever are the prettier!" Boy: "Well, mum, I guess I'd better just bring you the cats, an' you can cut the tails off to suit yourself."

A Mean Swindle. --Mistress: "Did you ask for milk bread?" Domestic: "Yes, mum." "What a miserable little loaf they gave you!" "Yes, mum. It's my opinion, mum, that that baker is using condensed milk."

--"What's the matter with you to-day, Tommy? You seem to be uneasy." "I am," said the bad little boy. "Yesterday was pa's and ma's wooden wedding, and all the neighbors sent 'em shingles."

--A square meal generally costs a round price.

--The pupil of the eye is incessantly lashed.

--Mrs. Pennifeather: "Goodness gracious! I wonder what in the world has become of all my tarts?" Mr. P.: "Where did you put them?" Mrs. P.: "Right on the window-sill here." Mr. P.: "That accounts for it. You have carelessly exposed them to the son."

--It is his exalted position that makes the weather cock vane.

--Father (severely): "My son, this is a disgraceful condition of affairs. This report says you are the last boy in a class of twenty-two." Henry: "It might have been worse, father." Father: "I can't see how." Henry: "There might have been more boys in the class."

--Sunday School Superintendent: "Who led the children of Israel into Canaan? Will one of the smaller boys answer?" No reply. Superintendent (somewhat sternly): "Can no one tell? Little boy, on that seat next to the aisle, who led the children of Israel into Canaan?" Little Boy (badly frightened): "It wasn't me. I--I jist moved yere last week f'm Missoury."

--The concave mirror is not exactly a humorist, but it makes some very amusing reflections.

--"Boy, I read in your eyes that you have told a lie." "Papa, that is impossible. You cannot read without spectacles."

--Sauso: "Why did you yell 'Stop thief!' at the man who was running toward the railroad station?" Rodd: "I saw that he was going to take a car."

--A chilly salutation-- "Shake!"

--Weeks: "I'm afraid Brown is not very steady. I don't think he will stick to his business." Wentman: "Oh, yes he will. You forget he is working in a glue factory."

--"Do you distrust fat men, captain?" "Well, no," returned the old sea-dog, "not exactly; but I always give them a wide berth."

--"Here, I bought this compass of you, t'other day, but it's no good. It points north, east, south or west, just as it happens." "Ah, but you don't understand. You see the needle points this way. Now turn the compass around this way--see?--there you are. That's north." "Yes, but if I know where north is, what in time do I want a compass for?"

--Sunday-school teacher: "And when the wicked children continued mocking the good prophet, two she bears came out of the mountain and ate up over forty of the wicked children. Now, boys, what lesson does this teach us?" Jimpsy Primrose: "I know." Teacher: "Well, Jimpsy?" Jimpsy Primrose: "It teaches us how many children a she bear can hold."

--Cousin Nell (inculcating generosity): "Supposing your chicken should lay a nice egg, Tommy; would you give it to me?" Tommy: "No; I'd sell it to a dime museum. That chick's a rooster."

--A corn dodger--The careful dancer.

--"Had I better make a list of the prize cows and pigs?" asked the secretary of an agricultural fair. "Yes," replied the president. "Cattle hog them."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

OUR LETTER BOX.

TANITE.--The flag signals used by the U.S. Signal Service to designate the state of the weather were fully explained in No. 11 of the volume just ended. They do not vary in the different cities, the code holding good for every portion of this country.

QUI VIVE.--Bowditch is the standard authority on navigation, and all the theoretical knowledge necessary can be gained by a close and persistent study of his work on that subject. The best way for a boy to learn it practically is to enlist as a naval apprentice on one of the United States training ships.

SKATER.--First, place coal oil on the rusted skates and allow it to remain until the rust becomes softened, after which it can be easily removed by rubbing with fine sand paper or emery cloth. After using, they should be wiped dry and then rubbed with an oily rag before being placed in the case, or flannel bag.

M.P.J.--1. Rabbit skins are extensively used in making hats, caps and muffs, and for lining garments of various kinds, such as circulars, overcoats and the like. They are dressed in the usual manner, the fur being dyed to imitate many of the higher grades procured from the ermine, beaver and other animals. 2. An article on electro-plating was given space in No. 23 of the last volume.

G.E.B.--Several manuals relating to the use of fire-arms of various kinds are obtainable from book dealers in various parts of the country. The most expert rifle and revolver shots have gained all their knowledge by actual practice, placing no dependence on printed rules, but paying particular attention to the make of the weapon selected and thoroughly acquainting themselves with its construction.

SCHUYLER.--1. A vacuum air-brake, of which there are several patterns, is a kind of continuous brake, operated by exhausting the air from some appliance under each car, and so causing the pressure of the atmosphere to apply the brakes. 2. Nos. 4, 5, 13 and 17, Vol. IV are out of print. 3. After indulging in gymnastic exercises, it is said that the hands can be kept in good condition by rubbing them with alcohol.

M.J.A. AND H.S.D.--Your kind appreciation of the issue in question gives great pleasure to the publisher. There was no such number this year, in so far as the illuminated cover is concerned; but in the matter of stories, you will find that the contents of No. 5, of this volume, far surpass any other devoted to Christmas literature. It is full to the brim with good things well suited to the joyous season to which it is dedicated.

ELECTRA.--1. If the directions for making electric motors presented in No. 3 are followed to the letter, you will be successful, but, if substitutions and alterations are made, the result will be that the apparatus will prove useless. 2. It is not at all likely that the company will interfere with the miniature telephone. 3. As the elements in a Bunsen battery are immersed in sulphuric and nitric acids, it would not he advisable to place it in a sleeping apartment.

C. OGDEN.--1. There are forty-four States in the Union. 2. The famous River Nile is formed by the union of the Bahr-el-Abiad and the Bahr-el-Azrek. The first of these, or the true Nile, has its source in Lake Victoria Nyanza, and the second rises in Abyssinia. The Kagera and Shimiyu rivers, and the waters that descend from the plateaux from which rise the snowy peaks of Kenia and Kilimanjaro, unite to form that wonderful fresh-water lake, Victoria Nyanza, which covers an area of upwards of 40,000 square miles.

W.F.S.--1. Minorcas, Hamburgs or Leghorns are the best laying fowls, while Plymouth Rocks, Wyandottes or Langshans are the best to raise for marketing purposes. 2. It will be found both cheaper and more satisfactory to buy ready-prepared mocking-bird food from a dealer in bird supplies or a druggist. The food for young mocking-birds should he meal and milk, and occasionally finely-minced fresh meat. Grasshoppers, spiders and meal-worms should be given to the old birds, together with a liberal supply of the prepared food.

STUDENT.--Among the ancients, and during the earlier part of the middle ages, there was no distinction of capital and small letters. After the practice had been introduced of beginning books and chapters with large letters, often adorned or illustrated with artistic ability, it was not long before capital letters were employed in much the same way as at the present day. At times, however, their use was so extravagantly indulged in that many of the old books present a ludicrous appearance to the latter-day readers. The exact date at which they came to be universally used is unknown.

TWO OLD CRONIES.--1. A boy aged eighteen is not too old to learn how to play the piano, violin or any other musical instrument. There are thousands of stenographers who did not take up that profession until they were twenty-five or thirty years of age. They were firm believers in the adage, "It is never too late to learn." 2. Munson's appears to be the most popular system of shorthand. 3. A ten or fifteen minutes' walk in the open air before taking breakfast will do no harm; but indulgence in other forms of exercise should be reserved for the middle of the day, if possible, or an hour or so after eating supper.

H.T.C., BIZ AND J.A.M.--Candidates for clerkships in the government departments must pass a civil service examination in arithmetic, geography, grammar, history, reading, writing and spelling, and in some cases a knowledge of book-keeping is required. This depends upon the branch of the service and the special position for which application is made. Those desiring to enter the railway mail service must, among other things, give the boundaries of their own county, State and country; the location of all the States and Territories, locate all the counties along a specified mail route, locate offices on the route and exhibit a thorough understanding of the geography of the United States.

FRANK W.--1. According to Caesar, the first coins of what is now called Great Britain were of tin, and he has been substantiated by the discovery of pieces made of that material. The first copper coins made by the United States Mint were one cent and one-half cent pieces, of which there were four designs, designated the "chain cent," the "wreath cent," the "flowing-hair cent" and the "liberty cap cent." 2. The letter, or mark on a coin designating the mint at which it was struck, is called the "mint mark." The U.S. coins struck at the parent mint, at Philadelphia, bear no such mark; those displaying a small "S" immediately under the denomination are coined in San Francisco, while "C.C." stands for Carson City, and "O" for New Orleans.

EX-CONFED.--A glue well adapted for any work which requires particular strength is made by dissolving an ounce of the best isinglass, by the application of a moderate heat, in a pint of water. After straining this solution an ounce of the best glue, previously soaked in water for twenty-four hours, and a gill of vinegar should be added. After all of these materials have been brought into a solution, the mixture should be allowed to boil up once, and then the impurities must be strained off. A handy method of making glue for ready use is to employ common whisky instead of water in dissolving any quantity of glue. Put both together in a bottle, cork it tight and let it stand for three or four days, when it will be ready for use without the application of heat.

BIRDIE HAIGHT.--1. The American swan breeds in the northern parts of America, and its migrations extend only to North Carolina. Another American species is the Trumpeter Swan, breeding chiefly within the Arctic Circle, but of which large flocks are seen in winter as far south as Texas. It is smaller than the common swan, which is found in its wild state in Asia and the eastern parts of Europe. In a half-domesticated state it has long been a common ornament in lakes and ponds in this country and Europe, more especially the latter. The black swan is a native of Australia. 2. Varicose veins, it is said, may be radically cured by a surgical operation, but the disease may reappear in some other portion of the body, there being no way to prevent it. 3. Papua, or New Guinea, is the largest island in the world. Australia now ranks as one of the grand divisions of the earth.

S.A.M.--Eighteen articles on electricity have been published in this and previous volumes. They were: "A Cheap Electrical Machine," Vol. II, No. 22; "How to Make a Simple Electrical Machine," Vol. VI, No. 3; "Experiments of Various Kinds," Vol. VI, No. 4; "A Storm in a Teacup," Vol. VI, No. 9; "The Leyden Jar and How to Make It," Vol. VI, No. 20; "The Electrician at Home," Vol. VII, No. 16: "A Mysterious Alarm," Vol. VIII, No. 14; "Studies in Static Electricity," Vol. IX. No. 30, "How to Make an Electrical Machine," Vol. IX, No. 20; "How to Make an Electric Battery," Vol. X, No. 8; "The Induction Coil and How to Make It," Vol. X, No. 28; "A Simple Electrical Machine," Vol. XI, No. 6: "Simple Electrical Experiments." Vol. XI, No. 15; "An Electric Bell Outfit," Vol. XI, No. 20; "How to Make a Storage Battery," Vol. XI, No. 25; "Induction Coil Condenser," Vol. XI, No. 47; "Electric Lamps and How to Work Them," Vol. XII, Nos. 1 and 2; and "Electro-Motors and How to Make Them," Vol. XII, No. 3.

BIAS EYES.--1. Letters relating to business matters connected with this paper--such as inquiries relating to advertising rates--are the only ones answered by mail. They must invariably contain a stamp to pay postage on such reply. 2. Any reader complying with the rules governing the exchange department is entitled to its privileges. 3. He is an Englishman by birth. 4. The principal use of the bell on board ships is to denote the time of the day or night, which is done by 1, 2, 3, and so on, up to eight strokes of the bell. The twelve hours between midnight and noon, or noon and midnight, are divided into three portions of eight bells each, the duration of time between bells being half an hour. Consequently, during the course of each twelve hours, the same number of strokes of the bell will necessarily be used to denote three different hours or periods of time, as follows:

1 bell at 12.30, 4.30, 8.30. 2 bells " 1.00, 5.00, 9.00. 3 " " 1.30, 5.30, 9.30. 4 " " 2.00, 6.00, 10.00. 5 " " 2.30, 6.30, 10.30. 6 " " 3.00, 7.00, 11.00. 7 " " 3.30, 7.30, 11.30. 8 " " 4.00, 8.00, 12.00.

5. The magnetized needle of a compass has the property of arranging itself in the meridian, one end always pointing to the north and the other to the south; yet not exactly, but with a deflection or declination which varies from time to time in magnitude, and may be toward the west or the east.

A READER OF GOLDEN DAYS. A very plain and simple method of making snow-shoes was furnished our readers in Vol. Vll, No. 2. --ROD AND GUN. In Nos. 15, Vol. I; 23, 24 and 36, Vol. II, will be found articles devoted to the subject of camping out, which contain all requisite information regarding that form of recreation. --DODY. The Spanish sentence is untranslatable, several of the words being beyond the ken of any one who understands that language. --LAWYER. The gentleman representing your district in Congress is the proper person to whom application should be made for copies of the "Congressional Record" and Department Reports. --J.S.T. A portion of No. 52, Vol. VIII, was devoted to a minute description of ice-boat building. --A.S. 1. California half-dollars, in perfect condition, are worth 60 or 70 cents each. 2. It is claimed to be very efficacious. --W.P. Your offer is respectfully declined. We have already provided many articles on electricity in its various forms, and from time to time will publish others by practical writers. --NENA. 1. The titles of the serials in the volumes named are printed in the index furnished with each. 2. Harry Castlemon was the author of "The House-Boat Boys." --CONSTANT READER. We never supply business addresses. --JIM. Not possessing the key we are unable to solve the cryptogram. --L.F. It is a very interesting game, suited to the tastes of both old and young. The query was sent too late to be answered in the Christmas Issue. --BYRON V. Refer the matter to a local engineer. --HOWARD W.E. A description of the way to make a small storage battery appeared in Vol. XI. No. 25. --CONSTANT READER. Books devoted to hypnotism have been written by Drs. Hammond, Bernheim, Moll and Raue, besides which it has formed the subject of many magazine articles. --WHEELMAN. Read the description of electroplating in Vol. XI, No. 23. --J.L.J. No premium. --W.K. 1. We do not pay for contributions to "Puzzledom." 2. All the stories, sketches, etc., published in these columns are written by experienced authors. --O.J.C.U. 1. The papers are mailed from this office on Friday night. 2. Yes; in any sum less than one dollar.

-> Several communications have been received which will be answered next week.

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Your Worst Enemy

Is that scrofulous humor in your blood which manifests itself in festers every time the skin is scratched or broken, or in hives, pimples, boils, and other eruptions, causes salt rheum, or breaks out in occasional or continuous running sores. *Get Rid of it at Once*, or some time when your system is weak it will become your master. Hood's Sarsaparilla is the remedy which will purify your blood, expel all trace of disease and give you strength.

*Hood's Sarsaparilla*

Sold by all druggists. $1; six for $5. Prepared only by C.I. HOOD & CO., Apothecaries, Lowell, Mass.

100 Doses One Dollar

*1000 DOLLARS!*

I will forfeit the above amount if I fail to prove that I have the best remedy in the world for the speedy and permanent cure of *Indigestion, Dyspepsia, Biliousness, Liver Complaint, Sick Headache, Nervous Debility* and *Consumption*. I will gladly send a free bottle of this *wonderful* medicine, prepaid, to every reader of this paper, thus giving all sufferers a chance to test its merits, *free of cost*. Over 70,000 testimonial letters on file from living witnesses who have been cured. Write to-day, stating your disease, or ask your Druggist for it and get well. Address *PROF. HART, 88 Warren Street, New York.*

*CONSUMPTION.*

I have a positive remedy for the above disease; by its use thousands of cases of the worst kind and of long standing have been cured. Indeed so strong is my faith in its efficacy, that I will send TWO BOTTLES FREE, with a VALUABLE TREATISE on this disease to any sufferer who will send me their Express and P.O. address. *T.A. Slocum, M.C., 181 Pearl St., N.Y*

* * * * *

*From the Clifton and Lansdowne Times.*

GOLDEN DAYS.--We would like to be able to place this weekly journal in the hands of every girl and boy in the county who cannot afford to subscribe for or buy it from news agents. But the girls and boys of that kind, we fear, are "too many for us." A sad fact, too, by-the-way, when we reflect that a little thought and a bit of economy on the part of themselves or their parents would do what it is not in our power to accomplish. Nevertheless, they ought to know what GOLDEN DAYS is, namely, a sixteen-page weekly journal, with finely-illustrated articles on various subjects of interest to young people, embracing natural history, philosophy and other branches of education, together with pleasing, instructive and moral stories by the best authors. It is just what is wanted for the youthful mind seeking for useful information, and ready at the same time to enjoy what is entertaining and healthful. If all girls and boys could peruse and profit by its columns every week, they in time would grow up to be women and men, intelligent, patriotic and influential in their lives; and lest any who may read these words are ignorant--which is hardly possible--of the whereabouts of GOLDEN DAYS, we gladly give the address, James Elverson, Ninth and Spruce Streets, Philadelphia.

*From the Commercial List and Price Current, Philada.*

GOLDEN DAYS.--That was a happy title chosen by Mr. James Elverson for his weekly journal, published at his great establishment, Ninth and Spruce Streets, Philadelphia. In this early part of its tenth volume, it shows, as every number of the past has done, a steady growth in vigor. The acorn sprout has gradually to expand and shoot upward in the air and light before it becomes the majestic oak of the forest; but all the while it is growing, it is putting forth new beauties and fastening its roots deeply and strongly in the earth. GOLDEN DAYS is that young monarch of the "literary wood," and it well deserves the honor. Year by year it has grown in favor with the young people of the country. By its distinctive American features, by its efforts to impart knowledge in an instructive and pleasing way to youth, and all through pure channels of information, it has to attribute its popularity. There is not in this or any other country a journal published for young people so meritorious as GOLDEN DAYS. You might call every weekly number a golden treasure, and never be amiss. It is what is needed in every family where there are girls and boys, for in its columns there is instruction, wisdom and harmless entertainment.

*From the Republican Progress, Bloomington, Ind.*

Elverson's GOLDEN DAYS is a publication that needs but an examination to recommend it to the public at large. It is handsomely printed on heavy paper, its illustrations are the best that money will procure, while the stories are written by authors of established reputation. GOLDEN DAYS is one of those magazines that cause the reader to be impatient for the next issue, because each number is a promise of something still better to come. Every boy or girl who is a patron of GOLDEN DAYS has a fund of information at hand that to not easily procured, as to travels and travelers in foreign lands.

* * * * *

Bad complexions, with pimply, blotchy, oily skin, Red, Rough Hands, with chaps, painful finger ends and shapeless nails, and simple Baby Humors prevented and cured by CUTICURA SOAP. A marvelous beautifier of world-wide celebrity, it is simply incomparable as a Skin Purifying Soap, unequalled for the Toilet and without a rival for the Nursery. Absolutely pure, delicately medicated, exquisitely perfumed, CUTICURA SOAP produces the whitest, clearest skin and softest hands, and prevents inflammation and clogging of the pores, the cause of pimples, blackheads, and most complexional disfigurations, while it admits of no comparison with the best of other skin soaps, and rivals in delicacy the most noted and expensive of toilet and nursery soaps. Sale greater than the combined sales of all other skin soaps.

Sold throughout the world. Price, 25c.

Send for "How to Cure Skin and Blood Diseases."

Address POTTER DRUG AND CHEMICAL CORPORATION, Proprietors, Boston, Mass.

Aching sides and back, weak kidneys, and rheumatism relieved in one minute by the celebrated CUTICURA ANTI-PAIN PLASTER. 25c.

* * * * *

*Notices of Exchange.*

-> The publisher will positively take no responsibility concerning exchanges effected by means of this department, neither will the reliability of exchangers be guaranteed. To avoid any misunderstanding in the matter, it would be advisable for those contemplating exchanging to write for particulars to the addresses before sending the articles desired.

-> Exchange notices containing offers of or for _shot-guns, air-guns, pistols, rifles, poisons, dangerous chemicals, animals, odd numbers of papers, valueless coins and curiosities, birds' eggs_, or "offers," will _not_ be inserted.

*Exchange Notices conforming with the above rules are inserted free of charge.*

F. McKinley, Box 171, Albuquerque, New Mex., a $15 violin for stamps.

G.L. Scholl. 1907 Biddle St., Baltimore, Md., Vol. XI GOLDEN DAYS for a fish-bowl or a bamboo fishing rod.

G. Plander, 309 W. 37th St., N.Y. city, 1300 all different foreign, U.S. and local stamps (valued at $65) for a bicycle or a cornet.

L.R. Wildermuth, 63 E. Town St., Columbus, Ohio, a steam engine, a plating outfit and a font of Old English type for a typewriter.

J.S. Polhemus, East Millstone, N.J., 16 books by Dickens, and others by Verne and Opper, for a pair of opera glasses or a field-glass or a jointed fishing rod and reel.

J. McCann, Brentwood, L.I., N.Y., 5 books, by Irving, Hughes, Verne and Greely for a mandolin or a guitar.

A.E. Miller, Gallon, Ohio, a violin and bow and a flageolet for a B-flat cornet.

G.G. Worstall, Manchester, N.J., a $14 violin or a $12 fishing rod for a banjo.

F.P. Goodwin, Putnam, Conn., a printing press for a game and chess-table.

H.F. Smith, 800 W. 5th St., Dayton, Ohio, a magic lantern with a few slides and 2 pairs of skates for a bound or unbound vol. of GOLDEN DAYS.

C.C. George, L.B. 38, Darlington, Wis., a 23-string 4-bar autoharp and an ocarina for a telegraph key and sounder or a typewriter.

D. Graham, 434 Willoughby Ave., Brooklyn, N.Y., a printing press with outfit, a lot of artists' tubes, 2 books and a coin detector for a banjo or bicycle saddle.

A.C. Durham, Green's Landing, Me., an autophone and music for a Webster's or Worcester's Dictionary, worth $4.

E. Schantzler, 328 S. 3d St., Phila., Pa., a silver watch and a pair of opera glasses for type.

L.S. Boyd, Auburn, Ala., volumes of GOLDEN DAYS for telegraph instruments or telegraphic supplies.

W. Brunswig, 177 E. 82d St., K.Y., a banjo and some electrical goods and tools for a bicycle or a Safety machine.

E.C. Covert, Vassar, Mich., a 1/2 horse-power steam engine for a typewriter (Merrill or Odell).

C. Cropsey, 326 Ogden Ave., Chicago, Ill., a magic lantern and 24 slides and a pair of roller skates for a horizontal steam engine (city offers preferred).

F. Rouleau, 2402 N. 27th St., Phila., Pa., a silver watch, a pair of ice skates, 3 vols. of GOLDEN DAYS, 3 vols. of "The Argosy," "The Rugged Pick Series" and a violin and bow with book for a Safety bicycle.

S. Eisenmann, 115 E. 56th St., N.Y. city, a pair of Indian clubs, 100 foreign stamps, 2 books, some minerals, a bicycle bell, a pair of skates and a base ball game for a self-inking press with type.

R.B. Dawes, 10 Summit St., W. Somerville, Mass., Vol. VII GOLDEN DAYS, several games and books and a nickel-plated, 75-candle-power lamp for a striking bag or musical instruments.

T.A. Mapes, Plattsmouth, Neb., a vol. of GOLDEN DAYS, a lantern and a lot of books for philatelic papers.

F. Crosbie, 1527 Summer St., Phila., Pa., 2 vols. of "The Argosy" and a vol. of "The Century" for a Victor Safety bicycle or a writing desk worth $25.

J.H. McCormack, 200 Centre St., Brooklyn, N.Y., a large-sized, foot power lathe with tools and attachments for a Safety bicycle, a typewriter or a small dynamo.

C. Allen, Greencastle, Ind., 800 foreign and U.S. stamps (valued at $25) for a 4x5 Detective camera.

L.A. Potter, Saginaw City, Mich., a foot-power scroll saw with patterns, etc., for type.

D. Curley, 31 Brown St., North Adams, Mass., Vol. XI GOLDEN DAYS for Trumbull's "Names and Portraits of Birds," Coues' "Check-List of N.A. Birds," or either vol. of "New England Bird Life."

W.H. Pierce, Larimore, N.D., a main line relay, a Waterbury lens and a fife with mouthpiece for $6 worth of type.

W. Kempton, Box 53, West Woodstock, Conn., a violin and bow, a phonograph, a telegraph instrument, a sewing machine, an autoharp and a self-inking press for a magic lantern or automatic organ and music.

W. Sikeson, 2930 M St., W. Washington, D.C., an International album with 645 rare U.S. and foreign stamps for a watch.

H. Johnston, 2023 Stevens Ave., Minneapolis, Minn., a foot-power scroll saw for any vols. of GOLDEN DAYS or vols of "The Argosy" except IX or X.

R.F. Church, 78th St., E. Cambridge, Mass., a 4x6 self-inking press for a scroll saw and outfit.

W. Klaffenbach, 112 E. 8th St., Muscatine, Iowa., a pair of ice skates, some books and a hand scroll-saw for electrical goods.

H.J. Robinson, L.B. 13, Washington, D.C., a 175 ohm pocket relay for a motor or other electrical goods or a camera.

G.H. Hakes, Belvidere, Ills., U.S. and foreign stamps and some printing material for a pair of clamp roller skates.

C. Schimelfenig, 7 S. May St., Chicago, Ills., Vols. IX and X GOLDEN DAYS and 4 vols. of "The Argosy" (several nos. missing) for a Detective camera or bound books.

S. Tasker, 1033 Vine St., Phila., Pa., a bass rod, reel and outfit and Vol. VIII or IX GOLDEN DAYS for a jointed paddle.

C.E. Pottenger, Box 126, Burlington, Kans., Vols. VIII and IX of "The Argosy" for U.S. and foreign stamps.

E.L. French, S. Easton, Mass, Vols. IX (3 numbers missing) and XI GOLDEN DAYS for an 18-bracket banjo.

J.O. Yates, Box 165, Chartiers, Pa., Vol. XI GOLDEN DAYS and a lot of books for a magic lantern or a $5 steam engine.

B.F. Bird, 47 Dana Ave., Hyde Park, Mass, a volume of GOLDEN DAYS for a set of boxing gloves.

C.M. Wallace, Frankfort, Ind., a pair of climbing irons, 2 vols. of popular papers and a pair of roller skates for a banjo.

G. Chassey, 524 8th Ave., N.Y. City, a printing press and outfit (no type) and a $4 fife for an electric bell and battery (Law battery preferred).

* * * * *

*OUR PREMIUM KNIFE!*

Ivory handle, beautifully finished, EXACTLY AS ILLUSTRATED. Made to our own order, and can *only* be had by subscribing to "GOLDEN DAYS"

-> We will make this Knife *a Present* to any one who sends us THREE DOLLARS

For One Year's Subscription to "Golden Days,"

-> The money must be sent *direct* to this office. Address

*JAMES ELVERSON*, Publisher "GOLDEN DAYS," Phila., Pa.

*Special Notice--WHEN TEN CENTS FOR REGISTERING IS SENT, we consider ourselves responsible for the safe delivery, though we have sent several thousand Knives without one in a thousand being lost.*

* * * * *

*Children Cry for Pitcher's Castoria.*

* * * * *

THE EDUCATIONAL MARVEL

"Cultivate the growth of constructive imagination in your children by giving them word-pictures."

KINDERGARTEN AT HOME.

_Let them study or play. They'll learn either way._

THE ONLY MECHANICAL SPELLER IN THE WORLD. _IT HAS NO RIVAL._

This is truly the educational device of the period. Will spell any word of two, three, four, or five letters.

One touch of the keys, and our boys and girls are delighted.

Carefully made. Superbly finished. Simple, yet perfect mechanism. Cannot get out of order.

ALWAYS INSTRUCTIVE. ENDLESS AMUSEMENT. _IT IS THE CHILD'S BEST COMPANION._

This sparkling, spirited, sensible device can be purchased at any notion, book, toy, or stationery store, or will be sent carefully to any address on receipt of One Dollar.

KINDERGARTEN NOVELTY CO., Ltd.,

_427 Locust Street, Philadelphia, Penna._

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*From the Standard, Belvedere, Ill.*

James Elverson, Philadelphia, publishes a handsomely illustrated and interesting youth's paper called GOLDEN DAYS. It should find a welcome in every home for the young folks, for the reading is wholesome, and such literature should be encouraged by prompt subscriptions. If the youngsters catch a glimpse of it they will find they need it as a recreation after study hours.

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Binding "Golden Days"

Covers for Binding