Democratic Sentinel, Volume 22, Number 22, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 11 June 1898 — William Dean Howells’ Father. [ARTICLE]

William Dean Howells’ Father.

The father of the novelist emigrated to Ohio half a cewtury and more ago, hnd then used this formula to get rid of an intrusive visitor, who had worn out his welcome. He would be called out on some business and would say to the guest: “I suppose you will not be here when I return, so I wish you good-by!” This was not bad; except in comparison with the superb stratagem ascribed to Gerrit Smith in such emergencies—as that he used to say Ln his family prayer after breakfast: “May the Lord bless Brother Jones, who leaves us on the 10 o’clock train this morning.” “Brother Jones” always left.—Saturday Evening Post.