Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 35, Number 48, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 20 February 1903 — Fair Oaks. [ARTICLE]

Fair Oaks.

Peter Zea has improved the appearance of his new barn with a fresh coat of red paint. Several from here attended the

Masquerade Ball at W T ater Valley last Saturday night and report an enjoyable time.

Mrs. Chas. Holly’s two children have been quite sick during her visit here, thereby [detaining her from returning home at Beaver City. They are now reported some better. At this writing, Monday evening, the smallpox situation remains about the same as previously reported. No new cases have developed.

Mrs. A. J. Nelson returned home at Brookston last Saturday after spending ten days with her daughters, Mesdames Cottingham and Ritchey and other relatives.

Miss Idel Street, of Buffalo, Ind. visited her aunt Mrs, Cottingham and other relatives and friends a few days last and this week. On account of the smallpox situation the ladies of the, M. E. church have deoided not to hold their Washington’s Birthday supper as previously announced. A good many valentines, mostly oomio, were handled at the postoffice last Saturday and to. gether with the regular mails Post, master Thompson did a rushing business.

Our “Old Boys” have been made happy once more by receiving their pensions from Uncle Sam.

P. W. Nelson was called to Crown Point on Monday of last week as a witness in the demurrege suit of J, E. Caster ve Monon Ry. Co, The plaintiff lost the case. Sam Ritchey did not move to Wheatfield as previously stated, but will move this week if,he can obtain a car fqjr his household goods. Walter Cottingham was called to Kentland on Tuesday of last week to attend the funeral of Ina Roberts, which took place thp next day. The cauae of her death was consumption. On Friday, Feb, voth, was the 42nd birthday a s our popular postmaster, Joeiah C. Thompson. His estimable wife thought to honor the occasion by giving him a surprise. An elegant sapper was prepared and a dozen invited couples were on hand awaiting his retarn from the office. It was a complete surprise

to him. After supper some time was passed in social conversation and general merry making, after which the guests dispersed wishing Mr. Thompson many more happy returns of the same.

Dr. Proudley’s drug store was entered by a burglar or burglars last Saturday night between 10 and 11 o’clock. Entrance was effected by removing a pane of glass from one of the front windows. A small quantity of cigars and tobacco were taken, the exact value of which is not known.

One of the most pleasant social gatherings of the season was the surprise bestowed upon Mr. and Mrs. N. Littlefield, last Saturday evening Feb. ldth. The occasion was givon them in honor of their intended departure in a short time for Denver, Colo, where they go for the benefit of Mr. Littlefield’s health. About 50 guests were present and all enjoyed a most bounteous repast, vocal and instrumental music and games and general merry-making.