Democratic Sentinel, Volume 11, Number 47, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 16 December 1887 — Nick Biddle’s Wit. [ARTICLE]

Nick Biddle’s Wit.

Nick Biddle was a wit as well as a financier. During a session of the Pennsylvan’a Legislature away back in the 40’s a bill was up appropriating a large sum for continuing the State improvement. An honest but unlearned member from Berks County was hostile to the bill, and, in fact, opposed to all State improvements. He knew the wishes of his constituents, and little else. While the bill was under consideration Mr. Biddle moved an ironical amendment appropriating SIO,OOO for the improvement of the Alimentary Canal. The member from Berks was instantly on his feet declaring his purpose to oppose any appropriation for the Alimentary or any other canal. The amendment was instantly withdrawn, amidst the general mirth of the members at the expense of the honest member from Berks.