Democratic Sentinel, Volume 20, Number 35, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 4 September 1896 — They Bounced Him. [ARTICLE]

They Bounced Him.

Sothem was once playing “Ixjrd'fiunidreary” in a small town, whoso regular playgoers plumed themselves on their imperturbable demeanor lu the theater. A joker who lived in that town had just returned from New York, and gravely put in circulation a hint that it was extremely unfashionable to. laugh at comedians. The hint “took.” Sothern played the first act in a frigid atmosphere. He could not understand it, but lie called the company together before the second act, and implored them to “pitch in and wnko ’em up.” They did their utmost, but without perceptible result. Utterly beaten, the great laughtermaker dived into the dressing-room. Presently the manager of the house joined him. “Shake, Ned, old boy!” he exclaimed. “You’re doin' great. Got ’em sure. Never seen a more delighted ordience.” “What!” the dazed response. “Delighted be blowed! They haven't cracked a smile.” “Laughed, sir!” replied the manager. “I should hope not. There was one man that snickered, and we bounced him out afore he knowed what ailed him.”