Rensselaer Union, Volume 5, Number 28, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 3 April 1873 — Page 4

LOT'S WIFE.

BY S. READE BROCKTON.

Three of ns held joint possession of a “claim" in one of the rural districts of the piacer mining country. A,t first we had excellent success; the sand seemed rich with. dust, and several small nuggets of the pure ore attested our rising fortunes. In a short time, however, the yield began to diminish; somehow it didn’t seem to “pan out" well. Our Monty washings of dust grew scantier There was little chance for romance in the life we led. We worked hard in the “diggings” all day, taking our cold snack at noon; and morning ana evening “took turns” in our culinary duties, and the keeping of our little shanty. Upon washing days —“few and far between"— after wrestling mightily with soiled gar ments and creek water, augmenting considerably therein the alluvial deposit, we were wont to lounge in triune council, smoking our pipes of peace, and viewing complacently our renovated apparel, dripping and swaying upon the tops of the neighboring brush.

The surrounding “claims,” with the exception of one adjoining, had been worked out and abandoned long ago; but with a pertinacity born of necessity, we had clung to ours. We had put in everything we had here; and it must be a hard struggle which should cause us to throw it ail up, and leave empty-handed. The boys in the next ciaim were either “harder up” or more easily discouraged than we, for after trying in vain to sell out, they abandoned their claim and left the mines entirely—all bnt one man, who, for some reason best known to himself decided to remain behind. There were no other occupied “claims” within a space of three miles; and ouT" nearest point of obtaining supplies being a day’s journey out, onsfcan easily imagine that in our isolated situation the gain of a comrade was not a merely nominal consideration. Tomkins, the new comer, or “Lot,” as fc© was familiarly called, was a character. Originally a New Hampshire man, and shiftless as only a degenerate scion from the thrifty New England stock can be, he had emigrated from the “land of steady habits,” first to the West, and from thence to our American “El Dorado.” Fated to disappointment he had drifted about hither and thither, led by-one-freak aDd another, until finally he had settled down in the mines. Lot was a famous story teller, abounding in legendary lore, and rich in a store of quaint old-time ballads. In the beginning of his life with us, he might have been often heard hilariously chanting in a highpitched, nasal tone: i_... - “The sand with golden dost U thick. Ho, boys, hot fiekspfmpe M big M a brick, Of Califorajr gold!” Humorous, easy, and with a strong dash of egotism, combined with persistent good nature and lively credulity—such was Lot as we first knew him at the mines. Eventually, however, his enthusiasm died out; for, as Lot himself feelingly expressed it: “The darned thing was e’en a most gin eout!” As I have before stated, for some reason best known to himself, Lot had considered it expedient to remain behind at the time his partners abandoned the claim. Our explanation of this was, that to his easy disposition it seemed less difficult to “bear the ills he had” than subject himself to the exertion of seeking “those he knew not of.” Subsequently, however, considerable additional light was thrown upon this subject. . One afternoon—it might have been three weeks after the exodus of Lot’s partners—one of our neighbors, engaged in mining three miles further up the gulch, reined into camp on his way back from the city, where he had been to deposit his dust in the Miner’s Bank, and get out a lot of supplies. “Halloo! George! Chris! Here are letters tor you!” he cried, tossing us the welcome missives. Lot, loitering up, with quizzical smile, perpetrated his standing joke: “Wall, saay, ye ain’t got nothin’fur me now, ain’t ye?" “No, I guess not," returned the other, with a peculiar twinkle beneath his bushy eyebrows; “but thar's a woman an’ four small children on the way, asking fur just sic-h a looking feller as you.” Lot’s jocularity vanished in an instant; his jaw dropped, and, with visible agitation, he blurted out: “Come, naow, none ofyer foolin’ ! Ye don’t puli that on with me!” “Fooling? Nary, time! It’s sober truth.” A sickly pallor swept over the man’s countenance, and he seemed to shrink within himself until dwarfed much below his usual diminutive stature. “What? What’s that yeou bay?" he stammered wildly, “1 say a woman an’ four small children ari coining way, sarching fur a husband and father.” “How fur behind?” gasped the anxious Lot, whose legs were fast getting tremulous under him. “Oh, a matter of three mile, or thereabouts!” and with a nod and a knowing glance, and “No further news, boys!” to ns, the little mule, answering the spur of ■his rider, struck into a brisk gallop, which speedily carried them both out of sight. There we stood, inquiringly facing Lot. He gulped awhile, but finally out with it: „ “The fact is, boys r\l’m married!" And with this lucid explanation, Lot, with rapid and somewhat unsteady step, disappeared within his cabin. After a few seconds he hastily emerged, bearing in his hands a pack of thumbed and greasy cards, a set of dice, several worn “dime hovels,” and an old “Com ique Songster.” “I guess, boys, I shan’t need these any longer," he said, flushing painfully—alternately standing on one foot, and then shifting his weight to the other; “so I thought I’d jist clean ’em eout. Some wimmen folk is pertickerler, ye know.” Chris took the articles, and offered to keep them for him. “ Wal, if ye’ve a mind to. I’d be much obleeged to ye. It mought be possible—barely possible, ye know—they’d come handy some time.” And Lot, his neck just bending to receive the yoke, looked forward with vague expectancy to a dim chance of future release. Pitying the poor fellow’s evident discomfiture, we refrained from joking or questioning him,and impatiently awaited those “coming events” which had so unmistakably “cast their shadows before.” Just at sundown, a novel train was seen wending its way toward the camp. Lot stood in the door of his cabin, while we, drawn together a little in the background, watched for developments. In advance rode a figure in female ap-‘ pare!, perched upon the back of a gaunt pack-horse, a child, just past the „ threshold of infancy, clasped by one arm, and another, also of tender years, sitting astride the pillion, its limited embrace aspiring to encircle the maternal Waist. A trifle in the rear came a rough mountaineer, fa the capacity of guide, sandwiched between two children of a larger growth, the elder of whom could sot have exceeded the age of ten years. A monstrous dog of the St Bernard breed, formed, successively, flank and Checking the beast within a few rods of fat the woman gave a keen, scrutinizing glance around, which rested at last fixedly upon the countenance of Lot.. “That’s him!” she exclaimed, in a strong, decided, though not unmusical

voice, nodding significantly to the guide. “We’ll atop." , , Clasping the infant tightly, and loosing the arms of the other from about her waist, down she slid, lithe as a young girl; and in a twinkling had the three children on their feet, and the youngest transferred to the arms _of_ the ten-year- — i-X... Lot waited in an apparently dejected mood, while she settled with the guide from her own pocket, with business-like dispatch. Then she led her little brood, followed closely by the dog, up to the door of our neighbor’s cabin. “Well, Lot, we’ve come.” “1 see you have, Marier!" And the door closed upon Lot and his family. On the ensuing morning we were able jo arrive at a more correct estimate of the new comer, who early introduced herseli to us as “Lot’s wife.” Bhewasof fair complexion, short in stature, and very slim about the waist. Her thin flaxen hair was drawn smoothly back from a prominent forehead; and fastened in a tight button-like knot at the back of her neck. Restless blue eyes, a sharp nose, thin cheeks, and a firm, large mouth, filled with even, white teeth, completed the list of her personal characteristics. Energy, decision, business, was written on every lineament of the little Woman’s countenance —spoke in every restless move of her “li.'some” body. j In the first three sentences she spoke a Contract was matured, to the effect that we, furnishing the wherewith, should thenceforward look to her to “keep the pot boilmg," at the average rate ot “ twenty-five cents a head " per diem. Lot’s children were miniature reproductions of the mother; and were under a control little short of automatical. Even Lion, the great St. Bernard, seemed; to know his place, and performed various useful duties, under the judicious eye of his mistress and ruling spirit. “Never had much opinion of dogs, anyway," she said, rather apologetically, one morning, as, distributing our breakfast, she glanced at Lion and the infant, rolling and gamboling together in the deep warm sand. “ Never could bear one, until Lion there, then only a half-grown pup, saved my first baby. He, just, a weeny, toddling thing, got out of the door, and down to the creek; and the first thing I saw was the dog, bringing him out, strangled and dripping, in. his mouth. I wouldn’t part with that dog for hisweightm gold!” Whatever Lot’s inmost mind or secret repinings, his outward life bore evidence of a marked revolution toward the side of fruitful and virtuous industry. No more loiterings at tasks or levity of demeanor; no judicial magnate ever clothed himself in dignity and reticence more severe than characterized Lot under the new administration, at whose head stood his brisk little wife. To us, the advent of Lot’s wife marked the commencement of a new era; wholesome food, a tidy cabin, and, above all, no more darning of socks, or washingdays. The wilderness had begun to blossom. We even attained to, now and then, the luxury of a “biled shirt." We were opening up, a new and richer vein in our claim, and prosperity and contentment smiled upon us. ~— It was an evil day that dawned upon our camp in the gulch, when one of the boys, ten miles above us, turned in on his way to the city, almost prostrate from a sudden attack of mountain fever, and with money to pay a note which had become due on a quartz mill. He wanted to know if any of us were going in, as he could make it worth our while to do the errand for him, he remaining at our cabin until the messenger’s return. As it happened, we were not intending to go for several days, our stock of supplies on hand being considerable, and not having enough dust to pay for carrying to the bank. Lot’s wife, however, on learning the state of affairs, was observed to communicate some instructions to the ten-year-old, who immediately “ lit out ” in the direction of his father’s claim. A few moments, and Lot himself came in. He was willing to accommodate, and would go to the city. His claim wasn’t paying him much; and he might as well look about a little. All -of which familiar terms might have been translated to mean that his wife was not at all averse to earning the “something” before intimated which should “make it worth his while.” None of us questioned Lot’s honesty, and we made haste to get him off as soon as possible. It was after nightfall of the ensuing day, when he was seen riding furiously toward the camp, looking neither right nor left, bating neither breath nor speed, until, opposite his own threshold, he leaped to the ground, dashed inside the cabin, and slammed the door. We had, scarce time to wonder at this strange and unusual proceeding, when there swarmed upon us a party of men—armed, and stern, members of a Vigilance Committee. Their errand was soon made known; they were in pursuit of the unhappy Lot. A party instantly surrounded his Cabin. Then the whole of the unfortunate affair came out. Lot’s spirit, released from its accustomed restraint, had rebounded like a balloon that has thrown over its ballast. “Marier’s” last words were useless as the wind against this sudden and overwhelming elation, born of renewed liberty. His journey furnished him a golden opportunity, though brief, for the renewal of those harmless indulgences of late so religiously . A chance acquaintance, jnet just in the edge of town, easily led the way to a friendly tipple in the nearest saloon. This exchange of good-fellowship eventually resulted in many more, bnder the combined influence of which, no Rothschild ever felt richer than did Lot with the trust-money in his hand. What occurred thereafter, passed to Lot like a troubled dream. There was a vague remembrance of all hands .at the bar, a scuffle, a pistol-shot or two; and then the mad race home, a trust betrayed, the stain of blood upon his hands, and the ‘‘Vigilantes” close upon his heels. They were sure enough of him now—twelve men to one, and he trapped like a prairie dog in his hole. Lion, the huge St. Bernard, came Bmelliiig at the garments of the invaders, looking up with large, inquiring eyes. Half-unconsciously, the leader patted the rough head carelessly, as it rubbed against his hand. The dog, fr iendly to the friendly, reared upon his hind legs and placed his fore paws on the leader’s shoulders —standing a half-head taller than the man himself. Meanwhile, neither sound nor light came from Lot’s caoin. Lion, going over, pushed at the door with a low whine. Soeedily following, the leader, with three of his men, knocked for admittance. Straightway in the door appeared Lot’s wife. “Gentlemen, what will you have?" “We have business with your husband, Madam. Will you ask him" to step outside?” “My husband is not able to attend to business, to-night.” “But our business is important, and cannot wait. If Jie does not come out, we must come in.” “Gentlemen, you cannot see husband tonight!" Her voice was firm, even, decisive; perhaps a trifle more decisive than usual. The dog, crouching at her feet, gave a lowgrowL “Woman, we have no time* to bandy words! Let us pass!"

. The dog rose partly bp, with a menacing growl. The woman behind him seemed to rise and expand in the white hegt of passion that possessed her. Her voice rose high and shrill: “And 1 say you shall not pass! you that come, twelve armed men, with murder in e hearts, to take an innocent man out the midst of his helpless children: I swear that you shall not touch a hair of his head to-night 1” As she spoke, drawing with dexterous hand a “Colt’s navy” from the folds of her dreys, she held it at full cock, bearing straight upon the leader’s heart. Not a man among them but was touched at the sight of this dauntless devotion; yet emotion must not prevent the discharge of duty.

“But this man has committed murder—the gravest crime known in the eyes of the law. Public safety demands that we deal with him according to the letter of the law,” expostulated the leader, more moved than he eared to acknowledge. A superb scorn overswept the woman’s features. Bending to touch the dog with her hand, the huge creature drew himself erect, angry and bristling, with lips drawn threateningly back from his formidable teeth. Then boldly throwing open the cabin door, she pointed with upraised finger, still holding the deadly weapon s aimed full at the leader’s brca&t. A scathing contempt rang in her words: “Does that man look like a cut-throat? Can you all, looking inside this cabin, tell me" that you are afraid to spare him to his wife and children this one last night?” tilie paused a moment, glancing swiftly around the circle of rough faces pressing close upon her. The tableau within showed Lot, crouching upon a low campstool, pale, disordered, and shaking with terror, clasping in his arms his youngestborn; the two girls, firm and fearless as their mother, were planted at his knees; while between him and the door, the ten-year-old, with a dilapidated chair a 3 a rest, stood behind his father’s rifle. The she-bear and her cubs were grit to the backbone, ■■ “Who tire you?” she cried, eloquently gesturing to the crowd with her unoccupied hand, “that take the business of the Almighty into your own hands, and send the souls he has made unbidden into his presence, without a prayer for mercy? Which would be the better, you or him? Leave him to us a heaven above us, in the morning you shall come in without hindrance! You can guard the cabin. There is no danger he will escape you!” There was a murmur among the “Vigilantes.” Their task was a harder one than they were prepared to execute; and perhaps a thought of wives and children at home moved them a little to this unwonted leniency. A brief conference, and the leader said: “Have your way. Make the most of your time. We’ll not disturb you until morning.” - —— “You are not deceiving me?” she said, watching the while with eyes which seemed to pierce like sharp steel points: A hoarse murmur ran through the crowd. “No! no! Fair play!” For a moment the woman’s strength seemed to fail, and she leaned heavily against the casement; another, and she disappeared within, the faithful dog following protectingly, Close behind. The men bivouacked around the cabin, disposing themselves for the night, two or three appointed sentinels keeping vigilant watch, The other members of the camp, unable to sleep, had kept wakeful vigil, using our little influence and knowledge of the accused’s inoffensive disposition; to.jmitigate, if possible, the prejudice which we found greater than the real weight of evidence against him. In an affray, two men had been stabbed —one seriously, one fatally; and Lot’s hand held a bloody knife. Innocent men have been hanged, even after full judicial trial, under circumstantial evidence far less convincing than this. As the night wore away, I restlessly paced the camp. An occasional sound came from the guarded cabin, but otherwise all was still. Once, about midnight, after a prolonged scratching at the door, it was opened to let out the dog. A stream Of light flashed out, but I caught no glimpse of those within. The dog, poor fellow, as though his canine spirit seemed to comprehend the fatal danger impending over those he loved, with drooping head and pendant tail, slunk through the open SDace. “Good Lion! 'Poor fellow! Come herei” I called. He lifted his head at the sound of my voice, raised his muzzle mournfully in the air, then drooping it again, went on, soon disappearing in the adjacent chaparral. At the first faint streak of day the “Vigilantes” bestirred themselves, and in knots discussed the grave business before them. The excitement of the past night had worn away, and hi these calmer moments not one of those most eager for duty then, but wished himself relieved from the painful responsibility devolving upon him. There was yet no sign of life about the cabin. 1 \ - Never, I think, did the solemnity of the occasion appeal more forcibly to the hearts of the “Vigilantes.” They were confident —terribly confident—that the prisoner would be found guilty. With voices subdued, and quiet' mien, they awaited the action-bf their leader, who humanely postponed, to the last possible moment, his official summons. Just as the sun’s disk appeared above the horizon, three of the committee advancing, knocked upon the door. With eyes red and swollen with weeping, Lot’s wife opened it wide. With a sickening sensation I fail to describe, I awaitad what was to follow. A suggestive rope lay where it had been thrown, at the foot of a neighboring tree. With a shudder I recalled the many times Lot had sat under the shadow of its branches, his children playing about his knees. Chris and George had followed at the heels of the other party. A resounding slap upon the shoulder nearly sent me reeling to the earth. “By the great Moses, that little woman’s a Drick!” “What is it, Chris?” I asked in astonishment; for his lively tone was anything but appropriate for the occasion. “Come and see!” and seizing me by the arm, he commenced dragging me toward Lot’s cabin. A sudden revelation came to me: Lot had committed suicide! Well! better so than the hangman’s noose! Entering the cabin prison, a singular spectacle presented itself. The committee stood in a dismayed group in the center of the room; while Lot’s wife, stern and resolute no longer, bent over the huge dismantled carcass of poor Lion. Gone was the nerve, the passion, and power, which had, the night previous, supported and lifted her above her sex. Plainer, mofe meagre, if possible, than usual, there was yet a something touching in her weakness; perhaps because it was so foreign to her nature. * Lifting her woe begone countenance as I approached, she exclaimed brokenly, “I’d a’most rather died than done it; but there wasn’t no other wav!” Hardly had the news of the escape spread through the camp, when a horseman, riding at break-neck speed, came, in the midst of a cloud of dust, flying up the trail. In his hand he bore a white signal, which he persistently waved as he advanced. Dashing into camp, he threw 1

himself breathlessly into the midstof the “Vigilantes.” “Where is the man you were going to hang?” “.Escaped.” > “Thank God! far he didn’t do it! Frisco Bill has confessed the deed!” Then the cheers that rang out might almost have rent the heavens -in twain; but Lot’s wife, alone with her sleeping children, crouched in mournful silence over the form of her poor, dumb sacrifice —silent and faithful even unto death.— Lakeside Monthly. «

FARM AND HOUSEHOLD.

—Cultivate less land and cultivate better, is good advice to a large proportion of farmers. —To prevent ink from turning mouldy, it has been recommended by a German chemist to add a drop or two of mustard oil. A similar addition to starch paste is said to prevent its turning sour. —The State Legislature of Vermont provides that freight wagons carrying more than three tons in weight, and less than four,•'Shall have the rims of their wheels at least four inches wide, and if carrying more than four tons, five inches. ‘ ' —A French farmer has discovered a simple and effective preventive against potato-disease. He introduces a small quantity of crushed tan-bark into each hole on planting the crop, and by this method has, for the last three years, been completely successful in preserving his fields free from the disease. . —A Good.Cakte.—Take three heaping tablespoenfuls of powdered or granulated sugar, two of butter, one of mazena, one egg; put with this two cups of flour, half a cup of sweet milk, a teaspoon cream-of-tartar, half a teaspoon soda, a pinch of salt, and Zante currants. Roll this out in powdered sugar, cut the dough in strips, and twist them as you would champagne cakes. —Making Leather Water-Proof.—Dis-solve a Small piece of parafin, of the size of a hickory nut, in good lard oil; —by help of heat, and rub it on the leather once a month. Or, take one part India rubber cement (which is made by softening it in benzole), dissolve in twenty parts neatsfoot oil and two parts fallow, by help of heat. This is a recipe highly recomrn'ended for leather, sis that used for the boots of sportsmen. —An English farmer who has keptsheep for forty years says he has found rock salt a valuable antidote for liver rot,_ and that these animals cannot be too liberally supplied with this saving substance. He’ further declares that in cases of congestion of the liver or rot he has found two tablespoonfuls of turpentine shaken up in half a pint of water, and given to the sufferer, a frequent cure, unless the disease has made very great progress.

How to Restore Trees Killed by Frost.

The following is taken from the report of a recent meeting of the Michigan fruitgrowers at Battle Creek: In view of the fact that thousands of the fruit trees, especially the peach, have been in jured by the severe cold of the present winter, and that many have been killed out-right, it will be seen that anything that might indicate a practicable relief from the loss that will fall upon this branch of industry will be hailed with satisfaction. On this subject, which was next taken up by the society, the views of Mr. Hartford, of Indiana, were called out. He said that in the cold winter of 1856 he had an orchard of thrifty young trees absolutely killed to the snow line, and of course a total loss as far as appearances indicated or experience could suggest. Knowing, however, that the trees had been vigorous and that their roots must possess considerable power of reproduction, he proceeded to cut off the entire top of every tree that had been killed, and lett nothing but unsightly stumps throughout the orchard. The spring came on, advanced somewhat; he watched his stumps with anxiety; found that numerous buds started out from these stubs, put forth their shoots and made a remarkable growth, and in two years he had as good and healthy an orchard as that Which had been cut off by the frost. Since that time he had frequently occasion to treat other trees in a similar manner, sometimes cutting off injured branches only, and had almost uniformly had good results. But it is necessary to cut off the injured branches of frozen tops as early as possible after the snow is gone, and. always before the sap has begun to ascend the tree. Other gentlemen expressed their opinions upon this very important point. To the argument that this process would cut off the present season’s product was an swered that in orchards whose trees are badly injured the crop of this year is out of the question; often the orchard may be saved by a timely application of the surgical knife, and in two or three years be in as good condition as before frozen. A true economy cannot fail to indicate the course to be pursued.

Pruning Injured Trees and Vines.

Mr. M. B, Bateham, in the Northern Ohio Journal , referring to the extent of the damage done to fruit during the winter add the propriety of subsequent pruning, says: “We find much greater amount of injury than we at first supposed, done to fruit trees and grape Vines by the freezing (or thawing?) last month. It is probable that many peach and cherry treees are entirely killed, and Still more will have to be cut back very severely. But we advise the owners to let them alone fpr a month or two longer, till the extent of the damage can be more clearly seen. We have known peach trees to recover when they seemed almost hopelessly ruined. All the varieties of grapes in this region are injured somewhat’, the Concord least of any; but most of them will, no doubt, recover, with only the loss of part or all of the season’s crop, according to the extent of„ the killing of the buds and young wood. Where these are a good deal injured, it is best to prune quite severely , especially old vines and such as have made large growth, cutting out a good share of the old wood, and leaviug.the best new shoots that come out nearest the. ground, and shortening these to a foot or two in length, or even less if the buds seem mostly dead. Then afteT the new shoots have come out in June any remaining dead wood can be cut away.”

New Source of Potash.

On a perusal of the following article, from the Quarterly Review, Western farmers will see the great advantage of saving the waters of tub-washed wool for application to their land: Sheep draw from the land on which they graze, a considerable quantity of potash, much of which is ultimately excreted from the skin with the sweat. It was pointed out by Chevreuel, that this peculiar potash compound (“Buint’’) forms no less than orie-third of the weight of raw merino wool; while of ordinary wool it constitutes about fifteen per cent, of the weight of the fresh fleece. As the “suint” may be extracted by mere immersion in cold water, it is easy for wool, manufacturers to produce more .or less concentrated solutions from which the potash may be recovered by appropriate treatment. The development of the new industry is principally due to MM. Maumene and Rogelet, and their process is probably In operation at most of the great seats of the wool manufacture in

France. The plan adopted by those gentlemen is a very simple one. They evaporate the solutions, which are sent to them, until a perfectly dry and somewhat charred residue has been obtained. Thi* is placed in retorts and distilled very much in the same manner that coal is distilled at ■gas works; and the ’result is that while much gas is evolved which can be used for illuminating the factorv, and much ammonia is expelled which can be collected and utilized in many ways, there remains a residue, which chiefly consists of carbonate, sulphate, and chloride of potassium. These three salts are separated by the usual method, and then pass into commerce. Curiously enough, they are remarkably free from soda. The wool manufacturers of Rheims, Elboeuf and Fourmies annually wash the fleeces of 0,750,000 sheep; and the amount of potash reckoned as carbonate, which these fleeces would yield, if all subjected to the new process, represents a value of $40,000. But MM. Maumenc and Rogelet calculate that there are seven times as many sheep in France as are included in. the above estimate; and this will enable us to judge of the enormous loss in potassic constituents which the soil of an agricultural district has to suffer.

~ Ask for Prusslng’s Cider Vinegar and take no other. Warranted Pare. Preserves Pickles. _ _ —A clergyman of high standing in New York traces the non-attendance at church of the middle classes to their lack of means for dressing their wives a§d daughters in accordance with the extreme fashion displayed in the pews. He thinks the fact one of the gravest evils of the times. Consumption. —Por the cure of this distressing disease there has been no medicine yet discovered that can show more evidence of real merit that Allen’s Lung Balsam. This unequaled expectorant for curing consumption, and all diseases leading to it, such as affections of the throat, lungs, and all diseases of the pulmonary organs, is introduced to the suffering public after its merits for the euro of such diseases have been fully tested by the medical faculty. The Balsam is, consequently, recommended by physicians who have become acquainted with its great success. A Bitter Controversy. —The temperance organs are waging bitter war on the manufacturers n£ alcoholic bitters, and _their attacksare resented with equal - bitterness by the latter,—who-seem determined to prosecute the quarrel to the-bitter end. In the meantime a novelty in tonic medicines is making immense progress in the confidence of all classes and conditions of society throughout the United States and British America. We refer to Dr. Walker’s California Vinegar Bittehb, and we call it a novelty in tonics hecause iUeontains no alcohol—an article heretofore considered essential in medicinal invigorants. The abstemious portion of the community approve the. omission, and as the new remedy is curing dyspepsia, biliousness, nervous affections, and, in fact, a majority of the diseases, external and internal, which prevail, it is difficult to see how the more self-indulgent portion of our fellow citizens can conscientiously object to it. One thing is certain: if ever there was what the French call a “grand success,” the sudden and continually increasing popularity of the Vinegar Bitters, deserves that name. The advocates of temperance point to the salutary effects produced by this inalcoholic restorative as a proof that spirituous stimulants are not needed for medicinal purposes—a position which has been recently taken by many eminent medical practitioners. Coughs. —A Medicinal Preparation in the firm of a lozenge is the most convenient. "Brown's Bronchial Troches" allay irritation which induces coughing, giving relief in Bronchits, Hoarseness, Influenza, Cotsumptive and Asthmatic complaints. As Quick as a flash of lightning does Ckistadoho's Excursion Haik DvK.nct upon the hair, Whiskers nild moustaches ; no chameleon tints, hut the purest Raven or the most exquisite Browns ■will be evolted. In One to Five Minutes, Headache, Earache, Neuralgia, Lame Back, Diarrhoea, Croups, Sprains, • and all similar complaints, arl fettered by Flagg's Instant Relief, or money refunded. Pills which contain antimony, quinine and calomel, should be avoided, as severe sriping pains would be their only result. The safest, surest, and best pills are Parsons’ Purgative or Anti-Bilious Pitts. More than forty years have elapsed since Johnson's Anodyne Liniment was first invented, during which time hundreds of thousands have been benefited by its use.. Probably no article ever became so universally popular with all classes as Johnson's Anodyne Liniment. Use less of Dooley’s than of other Yeast or Baking Powder, as it is much stronger. Put up full weight. Give it a fair trial. Grocers sell it.

The Laws of Health. It la useless for State Legislatures to pass laws for the preservation of the public health. If the great law of self-preservation, which depends for Its enforcement npon the will of the Individual, Is suffered to remain a dead letter. There Is scarcely an adult member of the community, of either sex. In this Country, who has not seen tlie testimony in favor of Hostetter’s Stomach Bitters, furnished over their own Signatures by persons of acknowledged eminence In science, literature, art, commerce, and every department of business and professional life. These witnesses have declared In the most explicit terms that the preparation is a safeguard against epidemics, a sovereign remedy for dyspepsia, a valuable anti-bll-lonrinedlcine, a promoter of appetite, a genial and harmless stlmnlant, a good acclimating medicine, a Strengthener of the nerves, a general lnvlgorant, a protection against the deleterious effects of malaria and impure water, and that it imparts a degree of vigor andactlvlty to the vitalforces which is not communicated by any other of the tonics and stomachics In use. Under these circumstances the self-preserva. tive law of nature chonld teach every rational person who, either by reason of inherent debility or in consequence of emo ure to unwholesome Influences, is in peril of losing the greatest of all temporal blessings, health, the importance of using the Bitters as a defensive medicine. Dyspeptics who neglect to give it a trial are simply their own enemies. It is gnaran teed to care indigestion In all its forms, and the billons and nervous will find nothing In the wnole range of officinal and proprietary medicines which will afford them thes ame relief.

Godey’s Lady’s Book fob Apribp— A handsome steel plate—“ The Herald of Spring” —is presented to the patrons of Godey for this month. The number also contains a fine colored spring fashion plate, with numerous wood-cut designs of costumes for the season; a smoking cap, printed in colors, and a variety of articles for the toilet. The Work Department is full of useful designs and instruction, and the literary contests are all good. The publisher gives a handsome chromo to each subscriber to Godey for 1873, whether a sin gle subscriber for $3.00, or a club of six for $14.00. Published by L. A. Godey, Philadelphia, Pa. * Phrenological Journal.— The table of contents of the April number is of a character to attract all classes of readers, although “sensationalism” seems to claim no place therein. The following subjects are of special interest: Charles P. Kimball, of Portland, Maine; Inborn Strength, an essay oh the elements of human advancement: Educating the Sexes Together; The Foremost Problem; From No Whence to No Whither, or the Future Considered; Allmentiveness, its Use and Abuse, illustrated; Wilder on Phrenology; Its Worth to Me, a Frank Admission; Tejnda, the President of Mexico; The Civil Service and Its Tendencies; The Cheerful Face; Thomas Gnthrie, D. D.; The Maple Tree; Origin of “April Fool"; East Tennessee and Its Resources, etc. Terms $3.00 a year Single numbers, 30 cents. 8. R. Wells, N. Y. - * Attest) to the Fibst Symptoms of Cokscmption, and that the disease may be checked in Ttr incipiency, use at once Dr. Jayne's Expectorant, a safe remedy for all affections of the Lungs and Bronchia. d D*. «HAfitxs-B*HG*B's pills are not a purgative. ■ They cure every form of Fever and Ague immediateig, without any sickness or discomfort.

THE MARKETS.

NSW YORK March 26, 1678. BEHFCATTLB ...... *10.50 {£*l4.oo 80G5—Live......... 650 © 800 BHKBP—Live 660 © b.BB COTTON—Middling 19*© .19* FLOBR-Oood to Choice 7.60 © 8.4(P WHEAT—No. 2 Spring ■. 1.68 © 1.69 COItN-Western Mixed 65 © .66 OATS—Western, New 48 © .50 RYE—Western 90 © .95 PORK-New Mess..... 15.75 ©16.00 LARD.-.. 08*0 Joß* WOOL-No. 1 Fleece 57 © .58 Extra CHICAGO. BREVES—Choice.*s.7s ©*6.75 Good 5.25 © 5.62* Medium 4.25 © 5.00 Butchers’ Stock 8.50 © 4.25 HOGS—Live 600 m. 5.80 SHEEP-Good to Choice 6.00 © 8.00 BLITTER—Choice 28 © • .38 HlGGS—Fresh 16 © .17 FLOUR-White Winter Extra... 8.00 ©10.75 Spring Extra. 550 0 7.00 GRAlN—Wheat—Spring, No. 2.. 121 © 1.21* Corn-No. 2 81 © .81* Oats 26*© .26* Rye—No. 2 61 © .65 Bariey-No. 2, New 80 © .80* PORK-Mess 14.60 © 14.55 LARD...... 07*© .08. WOOL—Tub-washed .50 © .60 Fleece,washed.. <3 © .68 “ unwashed 24 © .84 Pulled .35 © .40 CINCtNNATL FLOUR—Family, New.... i *7.50 ©*7 85 WHEAT—lted 1.65 © 1.68 CORN .39 0 .40 OATS 80 © .88 RYE. 79 © .80 PORK—Mess 15.00 © 15.25 LARD 07*© .18 HOGS—Live 4.75 © 5.25 ST. LOUIS. BEEF CATTLE—Fair to Extra. .*5.00 © *6.00 HOGS—Live 4.50 © 5.00 FLOUR—FaiI XX. ../. 6.50 © 7.00 WHEAT-No 2 Spring 1.19 © 1.20 CORN-No. 2 Mixed 31 © .88 OATS-No. 2.. .27 © .28 RYE-No. 2 60 ® .62 PORK—New Mess 15.00 © 15.25 LARD . .07 © .07 r MILWAUKEE. . FLOUR-Spring XX *6.25 © *6.87 WHEAT—Spring, No. 1 1.28 © 1.29 “ No. 2 1.21 © 1.22 CORN—No. 3 35 0 .36 OATS—No. 2 26 0 .27 RYE-No. 1 64 0 .65 BARLEY-No. 2 181 © .81 • , , CI.EVET.ANT>. WHEAT-No. 2 Red *1.62 © *1.63 CORN 44 © .45 OATS-No. 1 .38 © .39 DETROIT. WHEAT-No. 1 *1.86 © *1.80.* Amber 1.67 © 1.68 CORN—No. 1 42 © .43 0AT5......... 35 © .86 TOLEDO. ' WHEAT-AmberMich *1.68 @ *l.oß* * — 1.65 © 1.66 "OATS—No n. ’’.'2 © ’.84

Epizooty Cold. Epizooty Cough. If neglected, will result in 6|N SUMPTION! YOUR REMEDY IS ALLEN’S BALSAM! What the Doctors Say. Amos Woolly, M. D., of Kosciasco Co.. Ind., says: ‘For three years past I have used Allen’s Lungßalsam extensively In iny practice, and I am satisfied ihere Is no better medicine for long diseases in use.” Isaac A. Doran, M. D., of Logan Co., 0., says: ‘Allen’s Lung Balsam not only sells rapidly, but gives perfect satisfaction in every case within my knowl3dge. Having confidence in it, and knowing that it possesses valuable medicinal properties, I freely use it in my daily practice, and with unbounded success. As an expectorant, it is most certainly far ahead of any preparation I have ever yet known.” Nathaniel Harris, M. D., of Middlebunr, Vt., says: 1 have no doubt it will soon become a classical remedial agent for the cure of all diseases of the Throat, Brouchial Tubes and Lungs.” Dr, Lloyd, of Ohio, surgeon in the army daring the war, from exposure, contracted consumption, he says : *‘ I have no hesitancy in saying that » was by the use of your Lung Balsam that 1 am now alive and enjoying health.” Dr. Fletcher, of Lexington, Mo., says: 44 1 recommend your Balsam in nrererpnee to any other medicine for Coughs, and it gave satisfaction.” Drs. Wilson & Ward, physicians and druggists, write from Centreville, Tenn.: “We purchased Allen’s Lung Balsam, and it sells rapidly. We are practising physicians, as well as druggists, and take pleasure in recommend! ng a great remedy, such as we know this to be.” Q3T Physicians do not recommend a medicine which ha no merit. What they say about Allch’h Lung Balsam can be taken aS a fact. Let all afflicted test it at once, and be convinced of its real merits. It is harmless to the most delicate child. It contains no Opium in any form. Directions accompany each bottle. Call for Allen’s Lung Balsam. J. N. HARRIS & CO., Proprietors, CINCINNATI, OHIO. For Sale by all Medicine Dealer.. S. SIMONS & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF PRINTERS’ FURNITURE, Cases, Stands, Cabinets, Quoins, Ac., 272 West Lake Street, Chicago, 111. Also, our New Patent Combination Cabinet, the Cheapest and Best manufactured. tW*A large lot di good Second-hand Cases, Stands and Cabinets for sale cheap. Jg-Send for Specimen Sheet and Price List. UUPerior * A° nC f U^l tllo T>A IN m a mm La complete practical guide 1 to house and sign painting, graining, -varnishing, polishing, kalsomining, paper-hanging, lettering, staining, gilding, glazing, silvering, glass-staining, analysis of colbrs, harmony, contrast, &e. 50 eta. Book of Alphabets for painters, draughtsmen, &c 50 cts. J. HANEY & CO., 119 Nassau St., N. Y.° A APIITO Ilf A MTM We guarantee emA6ENTS WANTED. fftlSo per week. New works by the most popular American and English authors. Si/perb premiums given away. Particulars free. Address M. A. PARKER & CO., Chicago, 111. Write for Large y frustrated Descriptive Price List to Double Bingle, Muzzle and Breech-Loading Rifles, Shot Gum,Revolvers, Pistols,Ac.,of every kind, for men or boys,at very low prices.U uns,s3 to $300; Pis tols,sl tos2s “AMERICAN SAWS.” BEST IN THE WORLD, MOVABLE-TOOTHED CIRCULARS, PERFORATED CROSS CUTS. Send for Pamphlet to AMERICAN SAW CO., NEW YORK. 300 Bushels from In Campbell’s Late Rose Potatoes! E.vokmously Proucctiyk, and of good quality. Prlceper peck,s2.so, bushel, $7.50; barrel,sl6. By mall, 3 lbs., sl. 4 catalogues sent for 20e. 5 samples of Colored Fruit and Flower Plates, sl. Aadresa F. K. PHCENIX. Bloomington, iff. DON’T wear that Spring Truss, which Is killing you, but send for circular for HOWE’S ELASTIC BELT TRUSS, which Is as easy to wear as a garter, and has cured patients In from 6to 25 weeks. Address Box 753, HENRY HOWK, Council Bluffs, lowa. 'SR +n <fconi» ,r, L , y ! Agents wanted! All classes of LU tpziU working people, of either sex, young or old.,milk, ■ more money at work for ns in tliclr spare moments or nil the time than at anything else. I’arlle nlnrs free. Address G. Stinson & Co., Portland, Map • Sweet Chestnut Trees and Seed, &c. Fine Yearling Treea, postpaid by mail. 12 for 75e 100for$3- Nuts, In excellent condition for planting, per It, 50c.; 3 tts, sl, An Illustrated circular free; also a 56-page catalogue free, of new, rare and beautiful greenhouse and bedding plants. Ninetecnt 1 * year. 200 acres, 11 greenhouses. Address, vuar.sou STORKS, HARRISON A CO„ PainesviUc, Lake County, Ohio. DR. WHITTIER, 617 Lonswt engaged, most physician of tho gBgTHEiTJpAR the f?£en’s‘n flavh£ War Lj Aaß*ai'ißra--AV ranted to salt all tastes. For sale XwajSSTviWx IfVwerywhere. And for sale whole Mr (BQRv. \SI ’ sale only By the Great Atlantic & MS .JJBaXsJhi Racine Tea Co.. 191 Fulton-st.and 64'.HUSCSUilvl a *4Church-st, N. Y P.O. Box 5506.SeodforThe»-Nectar circular

12,000,000 ACRES! Cheap Farms! tub omtAPBBT Land ix KA.SSXT, for sale by the UNION PACinC RAILROAD COMPANY, la the Gbbat Plattb Vallbt. 3,000,000 Acres in Central Nebraska Nowfor sale in tracts of forty acres and upwards oq FIVE AND TEN YEARS’ CREDIT AT 6 PMRCMNT. NO A3> VANCK INTEREST REQUIRED. Mild and healthful climate, fertile soil, an ABUNDANCE OF GOOD WATER. THE BESt MARKET IN THE WEST! The great Mining regions of Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and Nevrffia, being supplied by tho farmers in tho Platte Valley. Soldiers Entitled to a Homestead oi 160 Acres. TQE BEST LOCATIONS FOB COLONIES. FREE HOMES FOR ALL! MituoNS of achbb of choice Government Lands open for entry under the Homestead Law, near this Great Railroad. with good markets and all the conveniences of an old settled country. Free passes to purchasers of Rallrond Land. Sectional Maps, showing tho Land, also new edition of Descriptive Pamphlet with jieiv Maps Mailed Free Everywhere. Address, O. F. DAVIS, Land Commissioner U. P. It. R„ Omaha, Neb. * PORTABLE Soda Fountains. S4O, S3O, $73 and SIOO. GOOD, DURABLE AND CHEAP! ./■SHIPPED READY FOB USE, Manufactured by J.W. CHAPMAN & CO*, Madison, Ind. Eg-Send for Circular. MOTHERS! MOTHERS 1! MOTHERS!!! ■jvon’t fall to proenro MBS. WINS, j j LOW’S SOOTHING SYIIUP FOB CHILDREN TEETHING. Thls-valnable preparation Ims been used with NEV-ER-FAILING SUCCESS IX TItOUSANDSOF CaSES. —H-itot-only relieves tho child friuu pain, but mvigj orates the stomach and bowels, corrects acidity, and -givett-tone and it 'Will also instantly relieve ______ Griping in the Bowel* and Wind Colic. We believe It the BEST flnd rUK WOULD, in all oases of DVSKMI-I.’l AND Ol A UKHG’aA IN ( HTLDUENj whether arising from teething or any other cause/" ; Depend upon it, mothers, it will give rest to > our* wives, and Belief and Health to Your Infants, Be sure uiul Caii for "MBS. WINSLOW’S SOOTHING SYEUP," Having the fae-slmilc of “CUUTIS & FERKINS” oq the outshle wrapper. S iT Bold by druggist* thronghout the world. SSOO IN FRIZES.

TWO NEW ,POTATOES!

EXTRA EABLY VEBMONT; Ten Days Earlier than Early Rose. Enorinonaly Froditcrive und of EXCELLENT FLAVOR. 41 per ft.; 41 pounds- by mall, postpaid, for $3, jO« COMPTON’S SURPBIBE, 886 Bushels to the Acre. A little later than Early Rose. Equal In quality. $3 per pound, by mail, postpaid. S3OO will be awarded as PREMIUMS to those who produce the Largest Quantity from one pound. Descriptive. Circulars of the above, with list of 300 varieties of Potatoes, free to all. Illnstrnted Heed Cntnlogtie, 200 pages, v/tth Colored Chroino, 25 cents. A Net.’ Tomato, the “ARLINGTON.” Early, solid.and productive. Price, 250 per pocket.

B. K. BLISS & SONS, 23 Park Place, . New York. ttewing Machine IS THE BEST IN THE WORLD. Agents Wanted, Bond for circular. Address, “ DOMESTIC '• SEWING MACHINE GO., N. YWEALTH & of the TirEST, Hon.W.E. ONDEKS Boundless W EBB, Author - Our new plan <3 nmgnideent (’hrornos FREE) immenttrlv motexs/'nl. cop Hat moiiffh, & no rl*Us. A P CMTC 111 A wren lor thiß Grcatillnat ratedAutn I O WAFB E tU Book. Send for couiKhu/iol lentil etc. E. llannaford & Oo.,<’ineiimnti A r Chicago. QIVBN . AWA Y— The above uud elc*seiit Cromo—Size, 9. by 12 Inches, worth $lO, every ynirchaser of Dr. Foote's wonderful work, IV ‘‘PLAIN HOME TALK.* No competition—the most takino Combination ever offer&l. Agents are meeting with unpnrallaled success. Books SDd Croajos r*?adjr and deliveredJpgether.-Bend $h.(S) fbr Prospectus And Cromo framwh—a compmctr outUl, Serjd early to secura territory. Full table of Coutents andiTernys sent on applicf-tion. Address Tho UNION PUBLISHING 00., Chicago. Every Cromo completely mounted, CAB MACM TO TließPHtToolaro Furl AuENTS.^i''^v. I sf traveling or at home. Exclusive Territory. New Blaus, etc. The most easily worked Agency. Kvkry subscriber receives and a share 1n $25,000in Cash and other premium*; Experienced Agents make SIOO to S2OO per week. Send at once for particulars, terms, etc., to OUK El RESIDE F RIEND, Chicago. REWARD BBfc S T'c.r finy case of Blind *fi E Hi E u Diccding, Itching 6r I nee-’ fil i 4 ; hi: rated Biles.that Dk Bixa’a IB 1 p 6 ’ f w I’ILK 1 ’ ILK fails to AV9p i 3 k i prosaly to cure Uie' Bile^ k My ami ijothtiigtdstw-SoM-by-jr all Druggists. Brw-e SI.OO, hfi I AM DKLIGHTEDSW fIA ( would not bo without it for ten times its subscriptlou price. Kiciiakd Vailes, §l' Kearney J unction, Bulliilo Co., Nebraska. 9 V The above is a fair sample of hundreds of letters received by the St. Louis Midland Faumer, the cheapestand handsome.stagriculturaland family . journal in this country; eight pages, forty columns; FIFTY CEXTfc A ¥SIAU, Clubs of ten for sl. Two sdbiple copies of different dates for three cent stamp. It. is giving perfect satisfaction everywhere. Try it. Address BOWMAN & MATTHEWS, Publishers, 414 N. Third Stroot, St. Louia. Mo. Ml OKiitablifUed 1830.] WELCH & GRIFFITHS, Mannfucturera of Bnws. SUPEUIUK TO ALL OTHERS. EVERY SAW WABBANTED. S Files, Belting and Machinery. CF"LIBEUAL DISCOUNTS. gR gy Price lists and Circulars free. to WELCH & GRIFFITHS, ■ Bouton. Mn»«,i and Detroit. Mlch>USE the Belslnger Snsli Lock and Support to FASTEN YOUR WINDOWS! No spring to break, no cutting of Bash; cheap, durable, yery easily applied; holds sash at any plac«* desired, and a self-fastener when the sash is down. Send stamp for circular. Circular and six copper-bronzed locks sent to any address in the C. 8., postpaid, on receipt of 50c. Liberal inducements to the trade. Agenm wanted. Address—Reißinger Sash Lock Co., No. 418 M irket street, Harrh-burg, Pa. (For illustration of thiS|Cheapc3t and. best lock, see 1 1amI'*Household Magazine.N. B. Independent,& c.,&c GREATEST CUHLUbI I V selling weekij, PHce 50 cents. No humbug. Address GEORG ' A. 11EARD & CO., Boston, Mass. bio eniDli > y , nent.atl*home,d»y or evpninKinocapital required; full inetructiona snd valuable vocluge of Roods sent free by mail. Aridrcac, Trfth six cent return rtarniv M. YOUNG A CO., 16 OortlMult<L, Nenr York. A . - __ _ per day. Agents wanted evervC I n tn ton Where. Perficnlsrs free. A. fl. 4) 111 IU 4>zu HI, AIR A CO., 81. Tonis, Mo. (Af-tA Bocures CROFUTTB WESTERN WORLD 1. n)U cr.c yew. n.eiU ail about the Far West, contatnlnx official ffllhneation an 4 fhcll not found elsewhere. Subscribers receive the (Ireat National Chiomo, “ AmkbicaX Paooaaaa, * bee. Age ms, ladles ami xsnuemen, wanted everywnaita Address, for tor. s, L. 8. N VK, 13 N. Jeffereon 81., Chicago. dawn Afi EACH WEEE-AGENTB WANTED. I JJ.yjsJ Enolneca legitimate. Particulars (Ms w J - WORTH. 8t- Lonl«, Mo. Pox JMSI. nnnif Of Medical Wonder*. Should he read by Klllß H. all. Sept Iran for 2 stamps. Address UUUII DR. IIONAPARTE,CIncInnuU,O. fPe Working People. Male and Female. L To sell a Btaple article. 100 p<T cent, profit guaranteed. H ant pie ar.(l circular sent free on receipt of 6 cent*. W. MOO V A CO.. 210 Water St.. bew Vork. AME Agent wanted In thi* town. AdareMDUTASBr UIV t A Co., 81 Wert Randolph Street, Chlgago, 111. A. N. K. SO7-B X. DR. WHITTIER. 817 BT fc??tt$M EEET ' ““ ***■