Democratic Sentinel, Volume 13, Number 37, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 4 October 1889 — Too High. [ARTICLE]

Too High.

The new reporter, a young mai whose graduating essay, entitled, “Tht Unseen Forces of Moral Philosophy,’ had been highly complimented by th< professor of botany, took a seat "neai the city editor’s desk. “I am delighted,” said he, speaking to the editor, tc think that I have so easily and with so little delay found the work for which I am well fitted. How do you like mj sketch, ‘Walraven St. Borrie?”’ “It is magnificent,” the editor answered, as he took out the manuscript. “Your diction is delightful and your style is captivating; and in nearly every line there is a gentle yet strong rebuke to the blunt and commonplace writer.” “My dear sir,” exclaimed the reporter, “you charm me.” “For instance,” said the editor, taking no notice of the reporter’s enthusiasm, “you say that Walraven located in this pol-tion of the country.” “Yes; do you like the way I express it?” “I am delighted. Some writers—old Pinkney, out there, for instance—would have said that Walraven settled in this part of the country.” “Yes, I see. He doesn’t understand rhetoric very well, does he ?” “Oh, no; not at all. Here is another excellent point,” said the editor, turning the leaves of the manuscript. “You say that W alraveu went to a hardware establishment and procured a rifle.” “That’s good, isn’t it?” “First-class. Old Pinkney would have said that he went to a hardware store and bought a rifle.” “That’s because he is crude in his manner of expression, isn’t it ?” “Assuredly. And again you say that Walraven partook of refreshments.” “How does it strike you?” “Way up.” “What would Pinkney have said?” “Oh, in his vulgar way he would have said that Walraven ate supper or luncheon, or something of that sort.” “I wonder that he does not learn better,” said the reporter. “It seems that he should. By the way, we cannot afford to use this sketch. It is too high for our readers.” “What piust I do with it ?” “Bring it out in pamphlet form and sell it on the campus.” “That’s a good idea; I’ll do it. Shall I go out now and write something ?” “No; old Pinkney is covering the ground pretty well. You may go to the county asylum, thrmgh.” “To write up the abuses of the institution ?” “No, to stay there until we send for you. Good day.”