Democratic Sentinel, Volume 15, Number 49, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 25 December 1891 — Page 3

ROYAL RANGER RALPH; :on: The Waif of the Western Prairies.

BY WELDON J. COBB.

CHAPTER XU IN THE CAVE. Banger Ralph, the old scoot, was not Idle whtie all the event; described since his mishap at the river were transpiring. When the horses ran away and dashed the wagon over tho cliff near Lone Canyon Tavern, tho ranger at first gave himself np for lost. Tho descent was a terrible one, and he clung to the sides of the wagon as it turned and fell, and finally struck tho water with a crash. Then, dazed and bruised, he was half conscious that the horses had become separated from the vehicle, and that tho latter, badly shattered, was floating down the stream. It bad now become so dark, especially In the shelter of the cliffs that lined tho river perpendicularly, that he could not estimate his situation except that he was being borne rapidly away from the scene of the accident by the stream's swift current. “I’m rid of the outlaws, any way,” he muttered grimly, “and probably near their stronghold. I wonder if young Grey has managed to find the girl, or if she is still a captive and on her way to this desolate place?” r His predicament was not a pleasant one, for the wagon box was immersed in water and he was wot through from tho dip in the stream. Finally it began to sink so low that he was c impelled to climb out on the seat, and thence later to the top of the wagon cover itself. From here he regardod the fast-flying landscape si ently and clung to his frail raft as it was driven hither and thither by the rock-choked current There was a final crash, and Ranger Ralph was flung head foremost into the river. The wagon was splintered to pieces as it came in contact with a huge rock in midstream, and floated away leaving the scout floundering in the water. He managed to reach the shore, and stood with dripping garments ruefully surveying his situation. Darkness and solitude surrounded him, and there seemed no moans of leaving leaving the narrow, confined canyon except by the waterway up and down stream. Suddenly a light appeared in tho distance, and the scout stood peering at it for some time, vainly endeavoring to make out its location and cause. “It must be a lantern or camp-fire of the outlaws,” he decided, and ho determined to endeavor to make his way toward it. In the darkness and amidst unfamiliar scenes this was no easy task, and his progress was slow and laborious. Clinging to trailing vines and shrubs, scaling rocks, fording and swimming, he managed finally to gain a pile of rocks directly beyond which was tho light he had seen. It proved to be as he had surmised, a camp-fire, built somewhat back in a cave-like aperture of the rocks. It was accessible by a narrow, dangerous path from the cliff above, and was evidently one of the entrances to the mountain fastness of the bandits. A dozen rough forms were visible in tho glow of tho firelight, and among them Ranger Ralph readily recognized I several whom he had known to be members of Despard's outlaw band. From his place of espionage tho old scout could watch his enemies and determine at leisure the best course to pursue. There was no fear of interruption, for while he might gain the entrance to the cave it was not likely that they would come his wav. He was so near, to the entrance of the ca\e that he would almost hear the laughter and conversation. There was only this ledge of rock between him and the open spaco in front of the cave. The scout crouched low as two men came toward where he was. At first he determined to retreat, as he feared they were coming over tho ledge; but as they paused at the edge of the stream near by he discerned that one of them bore a bucket in his hand, and that they had come to obtain water for the camp. “What’s the programme, anyway?” he heard one of the men ask; and the other replied; “A general breaking up r of the band, I hear the boys say. ” “And a division of the profits?” “Yes. It's whispered about that Despard Is tired of tho life, and that it Las become too dangerous to suit him. He's afraid of trouble with Shadow Snake, and he’s got some scheme for a fortune about the girl he has brought here.” “What trouble could he have with Shadow Snake?” “He’s afraid the old Modoc chieftain will learn about his treachery in regard to the princess.” “White Fawn?” “Yes; and Danton and he have played the Indians false. ” “About what?" “The emigrant tra ! n. They sto e most of the plunder, and tho Snake will resent this and our desertion. I wouldn’t wonder if the Modoc chief sent a messenger to demand restitution. Anyway, he’s mado enemies of the savages by his actions." The men returned to the cave just then, but their conversation formed a theme of thought in the sccut’s mind for some time after their departure. “The girl Is here,” muttered the: ranger, “and Despard has some plan for leaving.the country. I must learn what his schemes are, and at once. Hut how?” Ranger Ralph reflected deeply for over an hour.' Then, as a bold idea flashed upon his mind, he determined on its immediate execution. He theorized readily that Despard meditated leaving the country, and that he would probably take Inez Tracey with him. The girl was now donbtless a prisoner in the outlaw’s stronghold. The fortune her father had left her was the object of Despard's plot. To rescue the girl and foil the renegade in securing that fortune, the scoutfelt that he must act quickly. Ranger Ralph was noted aldng the frontier for his shrewdness, not only as a scout but as a detective. It was in the latter capacity that he had now decided to act, and although his design was a bold one, he believed that he would be able to successfully dkrry It Into execution. Rapidly he formulated his pW'n. It consisted, first, In the assumption of a perfect disguise, and the hardy old ranger, fully prepared for just such contingencies as the present one, was soon at work on a thorough' transformation Of his personal appearance. With a keen-edged razor he shaved off his luxuriant beard. Then he proceeded to paint his face and arrange his attire in accordance with his designs. When he had completed his tallet it is doubtful If his nearest friend would have recognized him He resembled a half-breed, and his stained skin, one eye shaded by a bandage, limping gait and general uncivil-

ized appearance gave him jnst the look he desired, to enable him to penetrate to the enemy’s camp with his identity unsuspected. When be had fully completed his mental plan of action, the scout cautiously clambeied over the ledge of rocks and made his way toward the camp fire. Several forms sprang to their feet and impeded his further progress • as he reached tho entrance to the cave. A man whom he recognized as Van e raised a gun menacingly. “What do you want? Who are you? How came you here?” he demauded quickly. In accordance with his assumed character, the scout folded his arms over his breast and adopted a sullen, defiant expression of face. “The Hlack Crow,” ho muttered. “I must see him. ” “Who are you?” “Tallula, the half-breed.” “How did you come here?" “The Modoc knows the ihlding-place of the white men and the paths that lead to it,” was the scout’s steady reply, admirably couched In tho Indian vernacular. V ance stared. “Ha!” he ejaculated, “you come from the Modocs?” “I come from the emigrant train. I bear a messaga Where is the Crow?” “Why do you wish to see him?” “He will know when he remembers his broken pledge to Shadow Snake.” It was evident from Vance’s manner that he ret ailed tho fact of Despard's double-dealing with tho Modoc chieftain. He glanced uneasily beyond the supposed messenger from the Modocs. “Did Tallula come alone?” he asked. “Yes. ” “Sit down by the camp-fire there; I will speak with the Crow.” Ranger Ralph smiled complacently to himself at the success of his imposition so far, but assumed a studied attitude of sullen silence until Vance had returned. “Come,” said the latter; “the Crow wishes tota.k with you.” “Ugh!” The scout was led into the ca\e through several long passages, and finally into an apartment that was apparently a portion of a wooden hut that was built over the ri,ver and Into the cliff. Despard and Danton sat at a tab'e drinking, and tho former glanced at tho somber figure of Vance’s companion. “Here is tho half-breed from the Modocs,” explained Vance. “From Shadow Snake?” asked Despard.

“Ugh!” replied the scout in a disguised tone of voice. “What does he want?” “His sharo of the plunder taken from the emigrant train. The Crow has played him false, and he seeks restitution or revenge. ” Despard evinced a cool unconcern of the scout’s somber threats. He- listened calmly while the disguised ranger In guttural tones fold of the dissatisfaction aud anger of tho 'Modoc chieftain; Then he said: “Shadow Snake demands gold’” “Ugh!” “And if it is not sent to him?” “War,” was the laconic reply. “When must he have Ills answer?” “In two suns. ” “Good. Before another day is past, Tallula shall know my decision. You can stay here until then.” Ranger Ralph retired with calm dignity, and congratulated himself upon tho fact that he had not been recognized by tho outlaw. “Watch that half-breed closely, ” said Despard to Vance; and the latter followed the scout from the room. “We have no timo to lose?” said Danton, when they were alone. “That is true.” “The Modocs will march against us unless we return a sharo of the booty.” “Then we will act at once. I have located the haunt of the old hermit. ” “Walford?” “Yes; and in tho morning I shall go there. Once I secure the secret of Inez Tracey’s fortune, I shall leave a small amount of plunder for them to divide, and you and Vance, the girl, and myself will leave this part of tho country forever.” Meanwhile Ranger Ralph had been led toward the river end of the cavo Dy Vance. He paused ere they reached the campfire. “Tallula is weary,” he said. “All right; you can sleep anywhere here ” The pretended half-bro d flung himself upon a broad rock. Vance contented himself with prooeeding to the sj.ot where his companions were, and after telling them to see that Tallula did not leave the cave, paid no further attention to the scout. The latter had fully decided to explore the bandits’ haunt, in the hope of finding Inez. After a while he left the rocks, and, unperceived by tho men around the camp-fire, began examining the various passages and apartments of the great underground cavern they occupied. There was one dim corridor down which he could see a light burning, and he stealthily made ffis way toward it He drew back in the shadow of a projecting shelf of stone as he saw, directly ahead of him, in an embrasure In the corridor, a man seated on the floor of tho cave. His back was to the scout, and he seemed to be lazily nodding as if in sleep. “A guard,” muttered the scout, thrilling to quick interest at his discovery. “There must be some one in the cave beyond, perhaps the girl herself. ” Ranger Ralph peered cautiously beyond the spot where the corridor enlarged. He started as ho discovered that a large apartment terminated tho liassageway. Upon a rudo log tablo v.as a second lantern, and Its rays showed a couch covered with a pantherskin. Upon this the scout made out a familiar form. It was that of the very maiden who was the theme of all his anxious thoughts. He stood spell-bound, yet excited, gazing silently at the girl, whose head was bent in her hands, as if in grief aud despair. Rapidly he began to form a plan for evading tho guard in the corridor and reaching Inez. As he stood there a sudden episode batfed all his plans. He saw Inez Tracey start to her feet and stare in wild emotion at the opposite side of the leave. This portion of the cavern was at that moment completely shut out from Ranger Ralph’s range of vision. Vaguely he heard a voice speak her name. He saw the girl's face express the deepest joy and relief. At that moment the attention of the guard seemed directed to the apartment. He arose siezed a revolver from his feet, and began to creep towards the cave. Intensely Interested and yet perplexed Ranger Ralph stood watching the scene of what promised to be a most exciting and momentous episode. CHAPTER XVII. Whoever it was that had apparently entered the cave apartment where Inez Tracey was, that person did not evidently see or know of the near proximity of the bandit guard. Even the imprisonod maiden seemed unaware of his presence, for her beautiful face, fully revealed to tie gaze of the scout in the light of the lantern, glowed only with emotions of gladness. The guard, adopting a stealthy.

! erouchlng movement, began to stepl i gradually toward the apartment. Ranger Ralph's attention was divided { between him and Inez. He saw that ; the outlaw was too thoroughly engrossed j in watching the inmates of the apartI ment to pay any attention to hint. Cau- ; tiously, therefore, the scout began to I steal after him. A few steps enabled him to gain a | complete view of the Interior of the cave, j He came to a dead stop with sheer suri prise as he saw the cause of the girl's emotion. “Darrel Grey!" be muttered under his breath. It was indeed the young scout As the reader will lemember, after he left White Fawn he had penetrated to the cavo of the outlaws from the inclosed valley into which he had fallen. When Despard had removed Inez to the cave, Darrel had reached a spot where a huge rock blocked up tho entrance to the apartment For over an hour he sought to push this barrier away and at last he had succeeded. It was his entrance that had so startled tho captive maiden. “Inez!” he criod, and sprang toward her with outstretched arms. lu the first impulse and rapture of love and joy Inez had glided to greet him. A modest flush surmounted her brow, and sho paused, trembling and confused, as he seized her band fervently. “Oh, Darrel—Mr. Grey! You have come to rescue me. ” “Yes. But wo must not delay. ” “There is a way of escape?” “By tho way I came, yes. Ha! What Is that?” Darrel drew tho startled Inez closer to his side and recoiled quickly as he discovered the guard. The latter had moved into full view. “Retreat toward tho opening to the valley,” directed Darrel to his fair companion. “Hold!” The guard leveled his revolver as he spoke. Evidently he recognized Darrel as an intruder and an enemy. The lat er was entirely unarmed, the savages having taken his firearms from him when they tied him to tho stake at the Rueblo River encampment. Inez had nearly reached tho aperture in the wall, when tho guard raised Ills revolver. Ranger Ralph had taken In the sceno at a glance, and resolved lo act quickly, as ho discerned the peril of his young friend Darrel Grey. With a rapid spring he was fairly upon the guard. Too lato, however, to prevent the shot the latter had directed at Darrel. Tho bullet sped wide of Its mark. The report of the pistol, however, awoke all thfe silent echoes of the cave. With one blow the old scout felled the guard insensiblo to tho floor of the cave. Then, springing over his prostrate form, he seized the revolver that had fallen from his grasp. Darrel Grey recognized him with a joyful cry. “Ranger Ralph!” he ejaculated. Inez glanced with quick interest at the man she knew to bo her father’s oldtime friend and her own. The scout glanced back at the corridor with an alarmed face, as he beard a new commotion. Two men had como suddenly Into view. Ranger Ralph divined In a flash that they had been companions of the guard. Doubtless they had been sleeping in the embrasure in the corridor, and he had not noticed them. Tho shot had aroused them, and as they entered the apartment they comprehended the situation at a glance. “Fly!” ordered the scout to Darrel and Inez. “But the out aws will bo aroused " “I will hold these two at bay, and cover your escapo. ” IXO ME CONTINUED. 1

Earnings of Railroads.

The advance sheets of the introduction to Poor’s Manual for 1891 show that the number of miles of railroad completed in the United States at the end of the last calendar year was 166,817, and that the number of lniles constructed during the year was 6,739. Since then enough stack has been laid to make the total mileage to this date 170,000' miles. The inorease in share capital during the year was $145,140,260, which was equal to a little more than $25,300 for each mile of road constructed during the year. The increase in the funded debt of the roads during the year was $277,636,254, which was equal to not much less than $50,000 per mile of road constructed. It will, however, be understood, of course, that the increase in funded debt did not necessarily; or probably, all fall on the new roads constructed. The total amount of share capital at £he end of the year was $4,640,239,578 and the total amount of funded debt was $5,105,902,025. This gives a total of share capital and funded debt of $9,746,141,603. This total is equal to more than $58,400 for each mile 1 of road in existence at the end of the year. Mr. Poor states that, counting in all forms of indebtedness, the cost of the roads as measured by the total was $59,638. or close to $60,000 per mile on the average, the total indebtedness having been $10,122,635,900. One would expect the average indebtedness per mile to deorease, but according to Mr. Poor it increased last year $1,364. Regarding net earnings, Mr. Poor reports that in 1890 the average was 3.4 per cent., against 3.3 per cent, in 1889, 3.2 in 1888, 3.9 in 1887, 3.7 in 1886, and 3.4 in 1885. These are the averages, of course, on the nominal capital. If we suppose the actual capital invested to be one-half the nominal amount, which is in accordance with Mr. Poor’s estimate in former years, we find that capital invested kt railroads pays on the average fairly satisfactory profits. The earnings pay interest on the funded debts, which in the aggregate exceed the actual capital invested, according to Mr. Poor’s estimate, and give an average of about Si per cent, for dividends besides. While it is true that many roads do not earn dividends, or even fixed charges, yet on the whole the railroads of the country are paying concerns. Those which are not have been prematurely built, or built where railroads are not needed, or wrecked by intentionally or ignorantly bad management. It will be observed that there was a slight improvement last year over the year before in net earnings, which, however, were still below those of 1886 and 1887. Lightning played a serious trick upon Geo. Rood, a resident of Jewett, Conn. A thunderbolt struck him, causing . severe but not dangerous burns. Since the accident his body seems full of electricity. When he places his hands together they adhere, and when his feet touch it is difficult to separate them. Sbvebal pigs were missed by a farmer in Gladwin, Mich. After watching several nightß for the rogue, the Vjigilance of the sentinel was at last rewarded. He saw a snake carrying off another young pig. The snake was dispatched, and found to measure over nineteen feet in length.

LITTLE BOYS AND GIRLS.

THIS IS THEIR DEPARTMENT OF THE PAPER. Quaint Saying* and Doing* of Little One* Gathered and Printed Here for Other Little Folks to Head. A Complaint. I think it really mean—don’t you?— To leave us nothing at all to do: In a world all made to order so A modern boy has no earthly show. Columbus sailed across the sea. Which might have been done by you o: me, And now they call him great and wise, They praise his genius and enterprise. Allhough when he fouud our native laud He took It for India’s coral strand! There’s Newton, too, saw an apple fall Down from the branch, ami that was all— Yet they talk of his great imagination And say he discovered gravitation. Goodness mo!—why, I could have told Him all about It; at ten years old 1 knew why things fell, and I studied tho rule For “falling bodies,” In grammar-school! There’s noble George, who wouldn’t lie— Perhaps ho couldn’t. He didn’t try. But If 1 should cut down a cherry-tree My father would only laugh at me. Benjamin Franklin—what did he do? Flow a big kite: on Sunday, too, Standing out In a heavy showerGetting soaked for half an hour. Fishing fur lightning with a string To see if ho couldn't bottlo the thing. Suppose I should fly my kite in the rain? People would sav that 1 wasn’t sane. Why should there such a difference bo Between Ben Franklin, Esq., and me? I can see steam move a kettle-lid Quito as well as James Watt did. And I can explain about engines, 100. Bigger and better than Watt ever knew; But somehow he took all the praise, And I’m neglected now adays. Then there’s Napoleon First, ol Franco— Suppose that we had had his chance, No doubt wo’d have boon emperors, too: But wo’d have conquered at Waterloo. I wouldn't have had old Grouchy muke Such a stupid and grave mistake; I should havo sent hint tho proper wuy To arrive In time to save tho day! Still, what makes me feel tho worst Is Adam's renown for being first. That was easy enough, you know; It, was just a thing that happened so. And my sister says, “If It had been me, I wouldn’t have touched that applo-tree.” That’s so. If she sees a snake to-day Sho gives a scroant and sho scoots tvwuy. To write such things as Shakspeare's plays Was not so hard In Queen Bess’ days. But now, when everything has been done, I cannot think of a single one To bring a boy to wealth and fame. It's a regular downright burning shame! P. S. When it’s flue, I shall play busobiv.ll; For you know It never would do at all To forgot about “Jack” who becomes, they sav, A very dull boy, without plonty of play. But wait!—when a rainy Saturday comes, As soon as I’vo finished Monday’s sums I’m going to build a groat flying-machine That will mako T. Edison look poa-groon.' —St. Nicholas. A Quaker Boy of Long Ago. Little Moses W. was a worthy member of “the people called Quakers,” says Anna Carpenter in the Housekeepers’ Weekly. Itarely is a name so fittingly bestowed as was his. The most gracious patience and sweetness characterized the child. Like the Moses of the bulrushes and the exodus, however, beneath the gentleness a quick spirit and a firm will were hidden, which on rare occasions would flash forth or stand Arm. The youngest of a houseful of hoys, Moses was the recipient not only of a wealth of affection, but, it cannot be denied, of an occasional embarrassment of riches in the shape of suggestion, advice, and dictation. One bright day the little fellow sat on the porch, surrounded by pretty, clean blocks from the great barn at which the carpenters were hammering away, and bright smooth cornstalks, gravely building a barn. Various criticisms by his elders upon his unique style of architecture had been answered in the loveliest way. At last his brother Benjamin settled down at his side. “Now, Mosie, I wouldn’t make such small stable doors; thy horses can't get in.” “Oh, yes, Benjie, they can; my horses are such wee little horses.” Then: “Why, Mosie, that overshoot isn’t right; that’s not like father’s barn.” “No, Benjie, hut ’is isn’t father’s barn; ’is mines own barn.” But soon Benjie began to change a block here and a cornstalk there, and to take liberties with threatened radical changes to the precious structure and havoc to all the devices of 1 the busy little brain. The pleadings “It don’t go’at way,” I and “P’ease don’t Benjie,” were met by “Now just wait a minute, Mosie, and see what a big, nice ham we will have directly.” At last the dark eyes began to flash; the small man rose, advanced one foot,-and shaking a mite of a finger at his brother, exclaimed: “I tell thee, Benjamin, I wish thee would just mind thee own biddie; it’s much as thee can do, an’ more an’ thee poss’bly can do right.”

Bonos’ Ducks. Bones was a shaggy, fat Skye terrier with a short tail. Just why these serubby-looking Skye terriers always find luxurious homes and fond admirers,l don’t know, but they seem to do it. Bones was no exception. He was the household pet. Every member of the family cuddled and kissed him, and he returned their affection with equal ardor. When any one came home after a short absence, Bones showed extravagant delight, and his demonstrations were usually rewarded with candy or cake. He had a trick of catching up any small object which came handy, and bringing it to lay at the returned one’s feet, as If to display the generosity of his heart. Sometimes he overshot the mark, like the rest of us. One day the lady of the house returned, and Bones, dashing out to find some token of affection to .present to her, fell over three unfortunate little ducks walking primly behind their mamma. He caught one up in his mouth, and with joyful haste rushed back to the parlor. Poor duck! Poor Bones.! The duck struggled. Bones took a firmer grip. The duck struggled harder. Bones ?ave a hurried gulp, and to his own dismay as well as to the duck’s the luck went down Bones’ throat and never came up again. The shout of laughter which greetsd his exploit was too much for Bones. He ran out faster than he came in. His stomach and his conscience both troubled him for long after. It was

only necessary to say, “Duck, Bones!' to see him slink away with the funniest expressson of doggish shame, caused by the remembrance of his unintentional dinner.—Harper’s Young People.

Jewish Colonization.

Recently various schemes have been advanced to ease the condition of the Jews—the persecuted race of all modern history. The latest is that of Dr. Paul Friedman, a native of Berlin, who proposes acquiring the Land of Midian, which lies on the northern side of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Akabab, and colonizing It with Jews. Although the territory is small, 1(50x70 miles, It is extremely fertile and 'eapnblo of supporting 500,000 people. It is now inhabited by about 10,000 Bedouins, a race somewhat akin to the Jews. Historically the Land of Midian is interesting, being mentioned in the Bible and by Jewish writers many times. It was to that land that Moses fled when he killed the Egyptian. The Mldiauite race, moreover, is said to have been descended from Middan, the fourth son of Abraham of Keturah. The story of the overthrow of the Midlanlte race is one of the most graphically told in Holy Writ. It began during the wanderings of the Israelites, whom Moses was training to warlike methods. The Midianites, probably through fear of the multitudes occuoying their pastures, became hostile to their distant kinsmen. It was then that the Midianitish women sought to seduce the men of Israel from the paths of virtue and the worship of the true God to that of Baalpeor. Then the fatal command of Moses went forth: “Avenge the Lord on Midian,” and 12,000 Israelite soldiers went out and slew 128,000 Midianites. How they saved the women and children and how Moses ordered tho execution of all male children and all women who had borne a child is told at length. After a lapse of two centuries tho Midianites again grew powerful and sought revenge. The second Mldlunitc war followed, which ended in tho terrible battle of the Valley of Jezreel when Gideon and his little army of 300 men destroyed “120,000 men that drew sword," and 15,000 more. After this the Midianites lifted up their heads no more, and they fade out of Hebrew history, and serve only as references for the poets and prophets.

Self-Possessed.

Two ladies and an invalid boy who was carried on a stretcher were tho last passengers on the gang-plank of a river steamer. The boy and one of the ladies were successfully embarked, and the other lady was crossing the plank, which was loose and partially drawn in, when it tipped and plunged her into the river. Several young men on the boat hastily removed their coats, and were just ready to leap into the water when she came up smiling, holding fast to her bug and umbrella. “Now don’t anyone jump in after me," she called to the excited passengers; “I am all right, and will ilpat until my clothes become soaked with water. Just throw me a rope. There's no necessity for anyone else to get wet. ” The rope was thrown to her, and she grasped it with one hand and was drawn to tho side of the steamer, when she said: “Now some one lie flat on the deck and reach down and take my bag and umbrella, and then help me out.” A young man followed her instructions, and she was soon standing safe on the dock. Requesting a porter to take her trunk immediately to a state-room, she retired, and in a few minutes’ returned, dry-clad and cheerful, to receive the congratulations of her fellow-passengers and to relieve tho alarm of her lady friend, who had promptly fainted at sight of tho accident.—Washington Republic.

Proportions of a Perfect Figure.

The height of a person with a “perfect figure” should be exactly equal to the distance between the tips of the middle fingers of either hand, wheD the arms are fully extended. Ten times the length of the hand, or seven and a half times the length of the foot, or five times the diameter of the chest, from one armpit to the other, should also give the height of the whole body. The distance from the Junction of the thighs to the ground should be exactly the same as from that point to the crown of the head, The knees should be exactly midway between the first-named point and the ground at the heel. The distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger should be the same as from the elbow to the middle line of the breast. From the top of the head to the level of the chin should be the game as from the level of the chin to that of the armpits, and from the heel to the toe.

Diving for Pearls.

One of the largest pearl-fishing grounds in the world is the Gulf of California. The pearls are not generally regular in shape or very pure in color, but some are of large size, and many of the rare black pearls are found. The divers are Indians, and their equipment is of the simplest kind, consisting only of a basket hung around the neck, in which to collect the oysters, a knife to detach them from the rocks, and a stone with a cord attached. When a diver goes down he takes the cord between his toes, the weight of the stone carrying him at once to the bottom. He gathers oysters as long as his breath holds out, then rises to the surface,, to descend again in fifteen minutes. Some of the divers are Wonderfully expert, and can remain under water for as much as two minutes before rising to the surface. The mortality among them is fearful, for the Gulf of California is infested with huge sharks.

Population or Ohio.

The population of the State of Ohio under the present census is 3,672,316; in 1880 the population of the State was 3,198,062. These figures show an increase of 477,254, of 14.83 per cent. Of the 88 counties in the State, 28 show decreases, most of them very slight. The remaining counties show increases varying greatly in number and per cent

IT IS RIGHT IN LIKE,

»S THIS COLUMN OF FRESH INDIANA NEWS. A Large Number or Accidents— A Few Sulelrie* and Deaths—And Other Important Mews, Carried the Liquor-Seller Outer Town. Several days ago a man named William Robbins opened a saloon In tho town of Charlestown, Clark County, having only a government license to sell liquor by the quart. Robbins conducted an orderly place of tho kind, but the citizens of Charlestown are bitterly opposed to tho sale ol liquor. The temperance people of tho town, among whom were the Revs. Jones and Cutler, Dr. Baird, Capt. George W. Coward, pension agent; William T. Armstrong, editor of the Clark County Record; Mrs. Jennie Y. Bean, Mrs. Graves, Blisses McWilliams, Jackson, and others, wont quietly to the place where Robbins had opened his saloon and informod him of their Intention to close up his business. Within less than an hour the entire stock and fixtures in the saloon had been boxed and were ready for shipment, Robbins watching the ladies and gentlemen during the progress of their work. Willing hands assisted In taking tho property to the O. & M. depot, from whore it was convoyed, with its owner, Robbins, by tho first south-bound train to Louisville, leaving tho determined Charlestonians triumphant and jubilant over their victory. Safe of Presley R. Griffith, Greenwood, was robbed of SUOO. County Treasurer Ai.Fiucn L. Means, Richmond, fell dead in his office. Rev. A. K. Glover, of Crawfordsville, has accepted a call to tho Episcopal Church at Madison, this State. Mrs. Sarah Hill, of Danville, aged 70, fell down her collar stairs and received, perhaps, fatal Injuries. Ex-State Senator David A. White died atMlddloburg, near Goshen, from blood poisoning, the result of a carbuncle. The Commissioners of Wayne County have selocted Mr. W. P. Cook to (ill tho unexplred term of tho late county clerk, Alfred L. McMeans, Mrs. Samuel Dumin, living near Clovorland, was badly Injured, being thrown from hor buggy In a runaway. The horse became irlghtonedat a vicious dog. Miss Allie Cravens, of Pendleton, was partially asphyxiated by natural gas from a stove In hor brother’s store. Slio was restored to consciousness with dllllaulty. While the family were away from home, thieves entered the residence of John Muselman, two miles east of Camden, and soctired $225 in money, making their escape. Mrs. Mary Henderson, a noted procuress of St. Paul, visited Fort Wayne and Induced Misses Lizzie Allen, Fordie Gilbert, Jennie Ballard and one other to depart with her, Warren Huikkr, a young man living at Splkorsvllle, shot himself accidentally whiio flourishing n revolver about in play. He was returning from an entertainment with Ills swoothoart. The first American roofing-tin used in Montgomery County Is being place'd upon tho barn of George Myers, near Alamo. Tho tin was made at Anderson, and appears to be of a first class quality. Mrs. John Murray, of Huntington, rushed through the burning room to the chamber occupied by her two crippled boys and rescued them, but site so severely burned herself that she may dlo. The tailoring establishment of M. A. Teague & Son, or Pcndloton, was mitered by tiilnves, and about, SSO worth of clothing stolen. Tills is tho third time this Horo lias been burglarized wlthlu tho past six months. Edward Smith, a well-known farmer, aged 24 years, living ut NowWashlngbon, wlille out hunting the barrel of his rifle exploded and the breech-pin imbedded itself In his eye, destroying the member. Louis Schmitt, formally of New Albany, but for seine years past engaged in farming In Vanderburg County, accidently shot himself In tte loft thigh while hunting, and bled to doath before the flow of blood could be stopped. Samuel Clark, passenger brakoman bn the Rockport branch of tho L. E. & St. L., had his arm so badly 'mashed, at Lincoln Station, while coripllng cars, that amputation was necessary. Clark resides at Rockport, and Is a man of family. < There was an old-fashioned and animated corn husking bee inter Romney, and the excitement ran so high that S3OO was wagered on who should husk tho most corn In twelve hours. At tho close of tho contest It was found that Grant Layton had busked 151 bushels and 08 pounds, and Charles Parker, 140 bushels and 48 pounds. Layton also husked thlrty-ono ears of corn in ono minute, and also threw thirty In a wagon. A distressing accident occurred southeast of Noblesvillo. A young man named Helms, son of William Helms, was fooling with a gun, which was lying across his lap. His sister, Mary Holms, aged 25, was In the act of wiping up the floor around tho stove, when tho gun was accidentally discharged, the entire load passing Into and through her right arm at the elbow, tearing the limb In such a manner that amputation abovo the elbow was necessary. Much surprise was occasioned In Wabash, recently, by the announcement that Ella Ray, tho young lady who recently obtained a judgment of $4,000 against Edward Kisner, a wealthy young man, for breach of promise, was married five months ago to Fred lllpp, son of Councilman Chris Hipp, at Fort Wayne. ' Only last week Kisner, in Ignoranco that his former sweathoart was married, walked up and paid $5,000, the amount of the Judgment, with costs, against him. The wedding of Miss Ray was kopt a profound secret. An accident occurred In German Township, Vanderburg County, by which Louis Schmidt was fatally injured. Ho had been out hunting, and was on his way home, when hts gun was accidentally discharged. The load, took effect In his leg, from which he bled to death. Four burglars attempted tho robbery of Stout’s drug store at Majeulca, Huntington County. The safe was removed from the building, turned upside down on the street, and the burglars were about to blow- it open, when Postmaster Craomer, a near resident, discovered the party, fired three shots at them and they fled. Thieves stole a brace, bit and saw from a hardware store in Petersburg, then broke in the postoffice, cracked the safe and secured $5.25 in stamps and cash. Adam Conrad was instantly killed at Russiaville. The through freight on the T., Bt. L. & K. C. railroad was going east at a twenty-five-mile rate, and Conrad was crossing the little bridge over Squirrel Creek, near the depot. He did not discover the train until half way aerbss the bridge, and the engine struck him before he could cross over. It threw him thirty feet; Mr. Conrad was a pioneer Christian preacher, highly respected, about seventy-five years old, and very infirm. - _j

An epidemic of thieving seems to be raging in Elwood. There is distress and want among Clay County miners. ” Unknown man killed on the Panhandle near Richmond. George McPherson, aged 35. near Mitchell, ate a hearty dinner end died.™ Leonard Ratz tell from the frame of a factory at Brookville, and was badly hurt. The Muncie Flint-glass Works drilled a gas well that turned out to be a monster. William Goli.iday, of Kokomo, was dangerously poisoned by eating canned salmon. Mrs. Ei.i.is, Dana, fell and struck her head on a rail while waiting for a train. Badly hurt. The State Veterinary Surgeon has boon notified of a supposed case of glanders at Muncie. The boiler In the factory of Kramer & Goddard at Elwood exploded, blowing a big hole through the roof. A machine for husking corn has been invented and Is In successful operation by I. If. Hardy, at Hardy. ■Five boys walked frem Bedford to Mitchell for a wager, and covered ten miles and a half In two hours. Nathan and Esther Frame, Quaker ovangolists, are converting quite a number of people at Mount Vornon. Isaac Downs, lately discharged from Northern Prison, has returned to Lafayette, and Is thought to be Insane. The largo barn near Evansville, owned by Isaac Odell, was destroyed by fire, caused by au exploding lamp. Loss, $7,000. Not loss than twenty persons were poisoned at New Albany by eating headcheese cooked In an unclean copper vessol. All will recover. i’oiiNG men employed in factories at Muncie will organize a night school for the benefit of those who aro unable ta attend in the day time. An engine rail over Chester Woltzmail, aged 11, at Logansport, crushing his left log. The boy’s father demands SIO,OOO from tho railway company. Aiiram Ci.ymeh, a minor at Evorlng’s coal mine noar Vincennes, was killed by falling slate. His skull was completely crushod. A wife survives him. The question of city government for Winchester Is being agitated. The Commercial Club of that city has taken the mattor up and will push it with vigor. Thomas C. McKee tried to kill himself at Marlon with a butcher-knife. He was a heavy drinker and on the border of delirium tremens. Will probably recover. Dog inoat Is not a now diet for consumption. John Hublliiger lived at Madison twenty-five years ago. 'Tis said he ate dog moat and was cured of the disease. Mrs. Laura Nichole, of Seymour, claimed damages in the sum of $25,000 against Jackson County. She received internal Injuries In falling from a bridge last October. Caleb Garrett, formerly of Richmond, and a soldier of tho Eighth Indiana Infantry, committed Buloldo at Tacoma, Wash., Dec. 8, by throwing iilmsolf under an electric street-car. Jesse Boyd, of Charaborsburg, killed an American eagle. Tho bird measures seven feet from tip to tip. It is supposed to be tho mate to tho one killed near there about a yoar ago by Adolphus Braxton. The good citizens of Stilosvlllo, Hendricks County, charged on Charles Stephens’ liouso, whore, It was claimed, liquor was being unlawfully sold, and tore tho building to ptoces, emptying barrels of whisky In the street. The factory which was recently located at Pendleton to manufacture glass tubes and piping for conducting underground electric wires Is boing rapidly pushed toward complotlon. It will be ready for operation within sixty days. George McPherson, aged 35 years, residing about twolvo miles southwost of Mitchell, was found by his wifo lying on his bed dead, after having takon a hearty dinner at a neighbors. Heart failure Is Mursuppoßod cause of his sudden death. Frank Kimmki., a brakoman on tho Pennsylvania road, was pushed from the top of his train by a tramp whom ho had respectlfully ordered off the train. The train was crossing tbo bridge over the St. Marys River, noar Fort Wayne. Kimmel fell sixty feet Into the water. Fortunately, the water was quite deop at this point and Kimmel received no serious injuries. The tramp escaped. Wm. Rozion, of West Hammond, stabbed two members of bis family. One of his victims, a lad about fifteen years old, it Is feared will die. Rozion buried a knife in tho boy's side. Another son was stabbed In the face, and will bear tho scars of the assanlt for life. Rozion had been drinking excessively for several days, and was in a state of mind bordering on madness when ho attempted to murder his family. Auditor of State Henderson has revoked tho license of tho Progressive Benefit Order of Boston, to do business in this State, because, upon Investigation, ho finds that an entirely different statomont of the condition or the company exists than that represented by the company when application was made for a license. Tho Soeratary of the company represented that the assets of the Order were $(15,874.10, with no liabilities, when In reality tho assets are $338,300, with liabilities amounting to $3,053,* 025. The 4-ycar-old daughter of E. Myers, a prominent citizen of Brazil, mot with a terrible accident. While playing around a stove its dress caught fire and almost instantly the child was wrapt in flames. Tho mother, in an adjoining room, ran to the rescue and made every effort to quench tho flames, but failed. Several neighbors botng attracted by the screams of the mother and child, rushed In and assisted in smothering out the fire. Tle child was burned to a crisp, but is still alive. The mother was also badly burned, as was another woman. In the Muscatituck River, Thursday, near Seymour, a young man named Busch, from near Salem, was drowned together with his team, while trying to cross the swollen stream. The body was not recovered. The new directors and officers of the New Ross Fair Association are: President, W. H. Hostetter; Vice President, Gilbert Gray; Treasurer, John Inlow; Superintendent, N. G. Thompson; Secretary, Thomas Ronk; Executive Committee. Jesse Rains, Marion Porter, Simon Hostetter, John Brown, R. S. Bratton, Thos. A. McLane, W. H. Gott, and Isaac Inlow. Fire slightly damaged the upper story of Peter J. Clark’s residence, Lafayette. After the flames were extinguished the discovery was made that Clark's 8-year-old son, Joseph, had perished, haring' been suffocated. It is presumed the child was playing with matches, and set fire to the house. What number of facts are still unrecorded in any book! A teacher was hearing her class in natural history recite, and asked a bright looking little girl: “What is a ruminating animal?” “One that chews her cubs,” was the innocent reply.—New Moon.