Rensselaer Union, Volume 10, Number 37, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 30 May 1878 — An Office-Seeker’s Blunder. [ARTICLE]

An Office-Seeker’s Blunder.

A good stoiy is told of Mr. Scranton, of Madison, the ex-Preaidcnt of the old Shore Line Railroad. In a train that was on the way to New London, a short time ago, Gov. Hubbard was a passenger. His Excellency sat quietly reading a newspaper. In a seat on the other side of the car, and at the rear of the Governor, sat our old friend Clark, of Chester, and Mr. S. 11. Scranton, of M.ulisbn. The former, who had just been using his handkerchief, said to Mr. Scranton, with a slight flirt of the handkerchief in the intended direction, •“ That's Gov. Hubbard.” “Is it, indeed?” said Scranton: “I’ve been waiting to see him, and get acquainted with him; and I’ 11 speak to him.” Whereupon Mr. 8. quietly went three seats ahead and addressed Railroad Commissioner Arnold, of Haddan:: “ Good morning, Gov. Hubbard: I’ve been waiting to make your acquaintance;.! am S. 11. Scranton, of Madison.”

Mr. Arnold stared, but bowed; and his new friend proceeded: “ The fact is, Governor, I’m about as much of a Democrat as a Republican; I vote to suit myself. I’ve been thinking, Governor, that I would like an appointment on the Railroad Commission, and if you can fill the next vacancy with my appointment I would feel much gratified.” Mr. Arnold bowed again. "The fact is. Governor,” his new acquaintance proceeded, “the truth is, the present Commission don’t practically amount to much, especially Arnold. He ain’t worth a row of pins. He just goes over the road, takes up a tie, here and there, glances al the bridge timbers, perhaps, and is ofi again. What does such an examination amount to? Now if I get his place I’ll promise you there shall be real service rendered. I’m a practical railroad man.” Mr. Arnold, being now fully convinced of the real situation, blandly bowed again—a sort of bow of encouragement —and said he’d think it over; and Mr. Scranton went back, well pleased at the prospect. It is said the story would never have got out but for the fun-enjoying Clark— Hartford (Conn.) Times.