Democratic Sentinel, Volume 20, Number 13, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 3 April 1896 — Bet His Whiskers. [ARTICLE]

Bet His Whiskers.

William Sells has deserted the circus business to go Into the theatrical business. He now manages a New York theater, but he likes to tell of the old show dnys. lie lmd In those days a partner known familiarly as "Jim" Hamilton. Hamilton had a black, bushy beard—hair that would have driven Paderewski Into seclusion—anil a general Intellectual air. One night some one suggested that Hamilton would look better If he would shave off Ills whiskers. Hells, who knew of Hamilton’s fondness for Ids whiskers, offered to bet $25 that Hamilton wouldn’t shave! Hamilton, who was present, replied, “I will t:>k» that bet." He did, and a barber was sent for. Hamilton submitted quietly to the operation. Then he asked gently If Hells would bet SSO he wouldn’t have his hair cut. Sells said he would. Hamilton took it, and then lmd his hair trimmed until he looked like a convict. When lie got all through lie said, musingly: “I have been intending to shave and clip my hair but this makes it easier.” Sells did not hear until later that it was all a put-up job, and that Hamilton had a habit of letting his hair aud beard grow to such proportions Just to get some one to bet him that he wouldn’t shave.—New York Tribune.