[Beginning with Wednesday, December 15, 1880.]

[U. S. GOVERNMENT OFFICERS TO BE APPOINTED RE INDIAN AFFAIRS.]

[CAPT. PAYNE: MOVEMENT OF COLONY TO OKLAHOMA.]

Everything has been "Oklahoma" during the past week, and the movements of the Payne colony have been watched with a deep interest by all classes--those in favor of opening the Territory and those advocating the holding of this strip sacred to the rights of the Indians.

It has been known for several days throughout the Eastern States, by means of the metropolitan dailies, that the Oklahoma boomers were to enter the Indian Territory from Arkansas City, on Monday, December 6, the number of colonists being variously stated from two hundred to two thousand. The telegraph has likewise transmitted the important sequel to this intended move--that for quite obvious reasons these hardy pioneers have postponed their invasion indefinitely, and are now very peacefully traveling back and forth along the State line, casting a wistful eye into the Territory--their actions very much resembling those of a wild animal glaring through the bars of his cage at a coveted piece of meat.

After leaving this city last Saturday morning, the Oklahoma colony moved west to Hunnewell, Lieut. Mason's company of cavalry escorting them to see that they kept within prescribed limits. Lieut. Mason's orders are to turn them back in case an attempt is made to enter the Territory, and if any resistance is made, to shoot their horses and destroy their wagons. At this order the Oklahomaites are very indignant, and declare that such a step will provoke a bloody conflict. But in this these people are headstrong, and doubtless say a good deal for the sake of talk. They don't mean fight.

The rank and file of this Oklahoma army are honest in this business. They believe these lands are public property, and that it is their right and privilege to settle upon them. But their zeal and pluck exceed their judgment. So long as the title to these lands is unsettled, Capt. Payne and his men have no right to make a forcible entry thereon in opposition to the Government. Call it Oklahoma or what you will, when you resist U. S. troops, you are doing wrong. If the law is wrong, have it changed, which can surely be done if clearly proven.

We favor the opening of the Territory as strongly as Capt. Payne or any of those interested in this movement, but we do not countenance any armed resistance to the Government.

It is to the interest of Kansas that this blockade to commerce known as the Indian Territory shall be at least opened to railroads if not to actual settlement, and so far as the settlement of Oklahoma would lead to this result, we are solidly in favor of it. Kansas needs a Southern outlet for her products. We are hopelessly at the mercy of the east and west railroads for transportation to a market whose prices are fixed by Eastern capitalists, and from whose rulings we have no appeal. It is not a local question, but one in which the entire State of Kansas is interested--and equally concerned are the Southern States, where a revival of business is evidenced by a disposition to explore new channels of commerce. To this end do we second the cry to Congress to act speedily on this question--not for the purpose of depriving the Indians of any rights, nor for the furtherance of any pet schemes; but solely for the advancement of the commercial interests of the West and South.

We have no interest in Oklahoma as a speculation--are not even the owner of a gratuitous certificate of membership in the Oklahoma Town Company, though many of our citizens have been more favored in this respect. But we want to see railroads running through the Indian Territory from the border towns of Kansas and Texas, the same as from the cities of Illinois to those of Ohio, through Indiana. And there is no just reason why it should not be done.

We do not care whether such a step necessitates the settlement of Oklahoma or any other country. That is not the point with the people of Kansas so much as the securing of a direct Southern outlet for the millions of bushels of grain that they produce.

In our humble opinion, a large portion of Oklahoma backing would drop off if railroads were only allowed to run from any point in Kansas through the Territory below us. Many persons have joined this move in the belief that it is the quickest and surest way to reach a Southern market. If the settlement of Oklahoma is the only way by which this can be done, Congress will be doing a lasting good by giving permission to the Oklahoma boomers to move forward. At all events, let us have railroads through the Territory.

[RAILROAD STOCK: PROPOSED CHANGE.]

The county Commissioners met last Tuesday to consider the proposition to change the stock in the Southern Kansas and Western railroad belonging to this county at seventy-cents on the dollar for Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe five percent, forty year bonds at par. After a full discussion of the matter, they decided that they were not authorized to make any disposition of the stock without first submitting the question to a vote of the people giving thirty days notice, and that it was impossible to do this in the limited time given. They, however, determined to investigate the matter to ascertain what our stock can be sold for, and to ascertain the value and security of the bonds offered, and then determine what is best to be done. The general feeling was that we should accept a cash offer or an offer of the bonds of our county at seventy-cents on the dollar for the stock or even considerable less. The commissioners desire an expression of the people as to whether they shall call an election in the matter and under what circumstances.

We should ask some friend in every township and neighborhood to ascertain the sentiment about him and inform us by letter or postal card. Courier.

[ORDINANCE NO. 86: CALLING AN ELECTION FOR BONDS...WATER WORKS.]

Entitled an Ordinance calling an election for bonds.

BE it ordained by the Mayor and Councilmen of the city of Arkansas City.

SECTION 1. That an election of the qualified voters of the City of Arkansas City shall be held on Friday, the Fourteenth (14) day of January, A. D., 1881, at the office of James Benedict, on Summit Street, in said City, for the purpose of voting for or against instructing the City Council of said City of Arkansas City, in the State of Kansas, to issue the Bonds of said City of Arkansas City in the amount of Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000), for the purpose of developing the water power of the Arkansas River, to supply power for the water works and other purposes.

SECTION 2. The manner of conducting said election shall be the same as that of general elections in this State.

SECTION 3. Said Bonds, shall, if voted, be issued in denominations of not less than One Thousand Dollars ($1,000) each; bearing Semi-Annual interest at the rate of Seven (7) per centum per annum, due and payable Twenty Years after the date of issue of said Bonds, or payable anytime at the option of said City of Arkansas City, after Ten Years from the date thereof.

SECTION 4. The form of the ballots used at said election shall be as follows, to-wit:

Those voting in favor of issuing said bonds shall have written or printed thereon the following words:

"For Issuing Bonds for Water Power," and those voting against the same shall have written or printed thereon, "Against Issuing Bonds for Water Power."

SECTION 5. That Ordinance Number 86 shall be in force on and after its publication once in the ARKANSAS VALLEY DEMOCRAT and the ARKANSAS CITY TRAVELER.

A. J. CHAPEL, Mayor.

Attest: I. H. BONSALL, City Clerk.

[PERSONALS.]

It now transpires that Miller is not going to run on that new road.

R. C. Haywood returned from a business trip to St. Louis last Monday.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, DECEMBER 15, 1880.]

BIRTH. Born. To the wife of Will Skinner, of East Bolton, last week, a daughter.

All hunting and shooting is strictly forbidden on my farm.

D. M. PURDY.

Mrs. J. H. Sherburne, of Ponca Agency, is in town visiting relatives and friends.

Mrs. Frank Speers is suffering from congestive chills, but at this writing we learn is improving.

Mrs. McConnell, of Kansas City, spent Sunday and Monday of this week visiting Mr. and Mrs. Charles Schiffbauer.

Some U. S. transportation wagons and mule teams came in on Monday night's freight train, for the use of the troops in this vicinity.

While Mrs. Frank Wood was out riding last Monday, her pony fell, throwing its rider to the ground. We are glad to state that no damage was done to the fair equestrienne.

There will be a dance at South Bend, in Grange Hall, Pleasant Valley township, on Christmas eve. Tickets, one dollar for gent and lady, which includes dance and supper.

Mr. W. B. Turner, Bolton township, enterprising sheep man, paid us a visit last week.

Ed LeClare, formerly a jeweler at this place, writes to us from Ouray, Colorado, where he desires to receive his TRAVELER, and desired us to insert a notice to his creditors.

NOTICE.

All having accounts against me will please make out statements and leave at the TRAVELER office, and no efforts will be spared to make satisfactory settlements.

E. D. LcCLARE,

Ouray, Ouray County, Colorado.

Miss Kate Millington, the Courier's entertaining daughter, and Miss Scoville, another of Winfield's Graceful and charming belles, were guests of Miss Roland at the Central Avenue last Sunday and Monday.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, DECEMBER 15, 1880.]

Mrs. L. B. Kellogg, of Emporia, wife of Hon. L. B. Kellogg, formerly of this city, has been admitted to the bar as an attorney at law. She is said to be the first lady in Kansas ever admitted to the practice of law.

Mrs. A. Wilson's "Solid Rock" store comes to the front with an unprecedented good showing for bargains, and our readers will do well by reading their special notice in this issue and giving the "Solid Rock" a call.

AD: Wilson's Solid Rock store is the place to get rattling good bargains for your money. Cash down and no grumbling.

Leland J. Webb came down Monday to attend court. When he returns he will take his household effects with him and will hereafter make his home in Topeka, having formed a partnership with his father, Judge W. C. Webb. Courier.

The Hassard Brothers, who have been holding sheep at Caldwell lately, expect to be in this city today with about 3,000 head, and will hold them in this neighborhood some three or four days. All wishing sheep should avail themselves of this

opportunity.

J. E. Miller (he of the Santa Fe), wife, and child, will remain in Topeka during the time he is laid off from the effects of the accident he met with a short time since. This being the case, we hope he will soon get around so we can bask in the sunshine of his smiles some more.

Editor Traveler: Father Santa Claus has promised and will positively be present at the Christmas tree to be given at the Parker school house on Christmas eve, in honor of his presence, in consequence of which the following committees have been appointed.

On Procuring a Tree: Thomas Wright and Albert Beason.

On Arranging the House and Putting Up the Tree: F. M. Vaughn, Jasper Hartsock, Aaron Purdy, Isaac Fitzpatrick.

Receiving Committee: Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Hollister, Mrs. Isaac Fitzpatrick, Mrs. Anna Coryell, Misses Etta Barnett, and Ella Kirkpatrick, Albion Goff, Jerry Tucker, and Martin Maxwell.

Music: Mrs. Emma Murphy, Jennie Gillis, Zadie Parker, D. M. Hunter.

Committee on Arrangements: Mrs. Murphy, Mrs. Phama Perry, Zadie Parker, John Purdy, D. M. Hunter.

Let everybody turn out and lend a hand.

D. M. HUNTER, Secretary.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, DECEMBER 15, 1880.]

Our former townsman, S. P. Channell, accompanied by Mr. Mullen, arrived in the city last Saturday on a business visit. S. P. is now residing in Minneapolis, and we are pleased to learn that both he and his family have been benefited by a removal to a colder climate than falls to the lot of Southern Kansas.

One Fogg, a boy aged about sixteen, was hired by Dan Bunnell, of Grouse creek, to herd cattle a short time since, and last week the young sinner ran off with one of his employer's ponies. It is needless to say he was soon overhauled at the Kaw Agency, and an interview with Squire Butterfield resulted in his going to jail for six months.

Commissioner Harbaugh left yesterday for Shelbyville, Illinois, where he is called on account of the sickness of one of his parents. He will be absent about one month. Mr. Harbaugh has nearly finished his first year as county commissioner, and he has made an excellent officer. He is a man of sterling honesty, and attends to the business of the county as carefully as he does his own. Monitor.

Mrs. R. L. Marshall met with a severe accident last week by falling down the cellar stairs at her home. As she fell she grasped at a barrel to save herself, but only succeeded in pulling it over, and in falling, it struck her on the back. Some of the inmates of the house, alarmed by the noise, speedily came to her assistance, but she remained insensible for some time. Her many friends will be glad to learn that she is now convalescing.

D. A. McIntire, who has purchased the livery outfit of Terrill & Ferguson, has put on a new omnibus in town this week, which we understand is to furnish free transportation to and from the depot to the patrons of the Central Avenue hotel. With two omnibusses, we feel decidedly hubbish.

Manson Rexford has sold his interest in the "Nimble Nickel" hardware store to the Howard Bros., who will conduct the business henceforth. Notwithstanding the fact that Rex told us he was "going to start a paper," we wish him success, and hope he will still make his home with us.

[CHRISTMAS TREE ACTIVITIES: PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.]

The names of the various committees having in charge the Christmas tree festivities to be held at the Presbyterian church, were handed in last week, but were unavoidably crowded out, and are presented in this issue, as follows.

Committee on Procuring Tree: Messrs. John Walker, M. B. Vawter, S. B. Reed, A. Gardner, R. Hutchison, C. L. Swarts.

Committee on Receiving Presents: Misses Clara Finley, Alma Dixon, Kate Hawkins, May Roland, May Benedict, Lizzie Guthrie, Mary Thomas, and Messrs. F. W. Farrar, C. M. Swarts, Dr. Vawter, Robert Maxwell.

Decorating Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Searing, Mr. and Mrs. Matlack, Mrs. Haywood, Mrs. Shepard, Mrs. Cypher, Misses Mary Parker, Angie Mantor, Carrie Benedict, Annie Norton, Mattie Mitchell, Linnie Peed, Flora Finley, Albertine Maxwell, Sadie Thomas, Linda Christian, Annie Hutchison, Mary Theaker, Emma and Susie Hunt, Ada Easterday; Messrs. E. G. Gray, W. D. Mowry, John Kroenert, J. D. Houston, George Howard, D. Cunningham, James Leonard, Will Peed, J. C. Topliff, Dick Chamberlain, Irving French.

Distributing Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Standley, Mr. and Mrs. Bonsall, Mr. and Mrs. Gooch, Mr. and Mrs. Sleeth, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mantor.

[MEETING OF COUNCIL: UTILIZING WATER POWER OF ARKANSAS RIVER.]

A meeting of the Council was called Monday evening at the request of a number of our citizens to take into consideration a plan for utilizing the water power of the Arkansas river by digging a canal from that stream to the Walnut, by which the benefit of some fifteen or more feet of fall would be obtained.

Mr. Hill has looked over the ground and thinks the matter is worth the consideration of our citizens. This gentleman, who has had much practical experience in such work, proposes that if our citizens will guarantee him half the necessary funds, he will raise the other half and build the canal. The estimated cost is from $40,000 to $50,000, and the plan, to organize a stock company with one-half the stock owned here.

After due consideration, an ordinance was passed calling an election to vote $20,000 in bonds, interest at 7 percent. It is proposed to sell these bonds and invest the proceeds in the stock of the company.

This amount of fall would give power sufficient to run half a dozen large mills and would be of incalculable benefit to this portion of our county. We have every requisite for a large manufacturing town and with this water power but a few months would elapse ere our city would resound with the hum of machinery and the tread of the busy operatives passing to and from their labor in the various manufacturing establishments.

If this enterprise should be prosecuted, it would give employment to a large number of persons living in the vicinity and would thus keep all the money invested at home. This matter will be treated at length in a subsequent issue when the glorious results that would accrue from such an investment will be made manifest to all.

[INDIAN TERRITORY - REGULATIONS.]

Section 269. Hereafter no authority will be granted or white person permitted, under any circumstances, to graze cattle or other stock upon Indian reservations without having first obtained the consent of the Indians and the approval of the agent thereto, and in such cases only upon such terms and conditions, and subject to the payment of such rate of compensation for the privilege, as may be prescribed by the agent with the approval of this Department. Agents will notify all unauthorized persons now grazing stock upon their respective reservations that all such stock must be removed at once; and in case such removal is not made within thirty days, the names of such persons, together with the names of witnesses and all material facts in connection therewith, should be reported to this office [i. e., Washington], that proper legal action may be taken in the premises; and like reports should be made in cases where white persons hereafter drive or otherwise convey stock to range and feed upon Indian reservations without consent and approval as aforesaid.

Section 270. Where provision is made by treaty for the establishment of cattle trails across Indian reservations, and such trails have been established with the consent of the Indians and the approval of the Department, cattle men will be permitted to cross such reservations, care being taken by the agent that the established route is not deviated from and that unnecessary time is not consumed upon the reservation.

Section 271. Hereafter, with the above exceptions no white person or persons will be permitted to drive stock across Indian reservations or Indian country without first having obtained the consent of the Indians and the approval of this office. Any violation of this rule should be reported with all the facts in the case to this office in order that appropriate action may be had in the premises.

Section 2184. U. S. Revised Statutes--Every foreigner who shall go into the Indian country without a passport from the Department of the Interior, Superintendent, agent, or sub-agent of Indian Affairs, or officer of the United States commanding the nearest military post on the frontiers, or who shall remain intentionally thereon after the expiration of such passport, shall be liable to a penalty of one thousand dollars. Every such passport shall express the object of such person, the time he is allowed to remain, and the route he is to travel.

PROHIBITION OF HUNTING ON INDIAN LANDS.

Section 2137. Every person other than an Indian who, within the limits of any tribe with whom the United States has existing treaties, hunts or traps or takes and destroys any peltries or game, except for subsistence in the Indian country, shall forfeit all the traps, guns, and ammunition in his possession used or procured to be used for that purpose, and all peltries so taken, and shall be liable in addition to a penalty of five hundred

dollars.

Section 2147. The Superintendent of Indian Affairs and the Indian agents and sub agents shall have authority to remove from the Indian country all persons found there contrary to law, and the President is authorized to direct the military force to be employed in such removal.

[THE OKLAHOMA BOOM: MORE ABOUT PAYNE'S OKLAHOMA COLONISTS.]

Caldwell, Kansas, December 18. Two teams and ten recruits joined the colony today from Montgomery County. The couriers from the western counties returned this morning with instructions to make no move at present. Nothing can be learned as to what was done at the secret meeting last night.

At a colony meeting held today, everybody was excluded from camp except members. It is understood to prevent parties from going into the Territory tapping claims.

It was expected that the opposition of the army would have broken up the colony and sent them back to their families, but it seems to have had the opposite effect and they think Congress will soon act and then it will be a race for choice of claims.

Major Randall said today that there need be no fear of an Indian outbreak if the settlers went in by the permission of the Government but that there would be danger if the settlers forced their way in, and the troops attempted to put them out. The Indians would rise, thinking they were helping the Government.

Col. Coppinger left last evening for Leavenworth, leaving Major Randall in command.

The excitement was increased in the camp by the arrival of B. F. Overton, Governor of the Chickasaw Nation; O. N. C. Ducon, of the Cherokees, and G. W. Greyson, of the Creeks. These gentlemen would never be taken for Indians, as they have only a sixteenth of Indian blood in their veins. They registered from Iowa to conceal their identity, but they soon found this unnecessary, as the colonists were glad to see them. Thos. Cloud, a full-blood, represents the Seminoles. They say that if the Government permits the colony to go to Oklahoma, their people will raise an army of 5,000 and drive them out. They are very bitter.

Mr. Grayson said to the colonists: "We are doing all we can to prevent the opening of the country, and you had just as well go home, for we have bought, and can buy, your Congressmen like so many sheep and cattle."

They denouced Col. Boudinot as the Benedict Arnold of the Indian race.

A severe norther is blowing, and the staying qualities of the colony is being put to a severe test.

DR. WILSON IN WASHINGTON.

Washington, Dec. 18. Dr. Rob't M. Wilson, representative of Capt. Payne's Oklahoma colonists, arrived today. He expects to call upon the President Monday and urge that his proclamation of last spring be so qualified as to give the colonists a military escort through the Cherokee strip, and permit them to settle upon the Government land in which the Indian title is extinguished by purchases.

A CRUEL SCHEME.

We have no words at our command strong enough to express our condemnation of the men who have fostered what has been lightly called the "Oklahoma boom," until it has involved a large number of people in a fruitless crusade which must be productive of absolute suffering and want.

If the telegraphic reports be correct, a body of men, women, and children, in the month of December, exposed to the sudden and sometimes frightful changes of weather common to the Kansas winter, are encamped on the State line, inspired by what seems a fanatical desire to invade the Indian Territory. These people are described as, for the most part, very poor. They are starved out of the western counties. What have they, then, to gain by going to Oklahoma, an unsettled wilderness? They do not need land; they have too much land now. They left their homesteads which they legally possess, only, at the best, to secure other homesteads, but with an alarming probability of losing what they have, and securing nothing. If they stay where they are, they will starve unless fed by the Government or by charity; and if they move to Oklahoma, they will not help the matter. They will make it worse.

One settler could test the question whether Oklahoma is or is not open to settlement as well as a thousand. It needs no "colonizing" in the face of express orders to the contrary, and in defiance of the United States troops. If the disputed territory is open to settlement, there is a way to find it out much more reasonable than that of these poor people.

When Mr. Dave Payne began this business, we stated that the conqueror of a territory was not wrapped up in his pantaloons. Our prediction has been abundantly fulfilled. When it came to facing the troops, Mr. Payne disappeared from the command of the "army of occupation." Whether he resigned or was deposed is

immaterial.

It is said the Oklahoma colonists have a chaplain. If that gentleman believes in the efficacy of his own petitions, he would do well, after a suitable thanksgiving for the disappearance of Payne, to ask that the colonists may escape from the clutches of the men who have been deceiving them; that they may return to their homes, or make new ones in Kansas, and possess their souls in patience until such time as Congress shall decide whether Oklahoma is open to settlement or otherwise.

Payne is a huge fellow and a professional colonist. He is an American and a typical frontiersman. His reputation was made by leading a colony into the Black Hills on the very heels of the surveying party sent in by the Government. It was a dangerous undertaking. He undertook the work in the pay of railroads chiefly, and the men who paid him live in Chicago today.

Payne penetrated the country at the head of a couple of hundred miners, adventurers, and men gathered from the street corners in the large Western cities. Had not the soldiers gone to the rescue, the whole party would have been annihilated. This was eight years ago.

Then Payne dropped out of sight. He was met in Southern Kansas, peddling corn salve. It was not possible for him to stop anywhere very long. The Black Hills had no attraction for him. No Indian was ever more of a nomad. Finally, he brought up at Fort Scott, so destitute that, it is said, he stole a pair of shoes, was arrested, and imprisoned thirty days for the theft.

Payne is a schemer: bold, unprincipled, and venal. He has adopted the extraordinary profession of a colonist, and has no competitor in the vocation he has chosen. When a railroad or a company of speculators want a party led through a new country, or want reserved Indian lands stolen, or want a wild, dangerous country broken through, they know of no one save Payne to do it for them. It is his profession.

[PERSONALS.]

$13,500 WORTH OF DRY GOODS,

CLOTHING, HATS, CAPS, CARPETS, BOOTS, SHOES, NOTIONS, ETC.,

To be sold at cost, and many articles much less than cost,

FOR CASH, at the

GREEN FRONT!

Within the Next Few Weeks.

Come one, come all, and secure a good bargain

while you have an opportunity.

I will exchange any part or all of the above goods for good sheep, young stock, corn, wheat, or oats, at their market value. Never before in the history of Arkansas City were such BARGAINS offered to the people as this, and probably never will be again.

Anyone looking for a good location in which to do a retail business, would do well to correspond with or consult the undersigned. Thankful to the many citizens for their very liberal patronage in the past ten years, I would ask for a continuance of the same during my closing sale.

Respectfully,

O. P. HOUGHTON.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, DECEMBER 22, 1880.]

Eggs are scarce, and command a big price.

The town site of Lazette is being turned into a farm.

Genial Joe Baldridge was down from Winfield last Sunday.

Lucius Knight, stenographer for this judicial district, was in the city Saturday.

John E. Allen, of Winfield, graced our city with his presence last Monday.

Dr. Jamison Vawter starts for Kentucky today to spend the holidays at his old home.

S. P. Channell left for Minneapolis on Monday last in time to spend Christmas with his family.

The new German paper just started at Atchison by John Hoenschiedt is called the Atchison Journal.

The Santa Fe company is putting up ice at Florence, Kansas, at the rate of four carloads per day.

Mrs. Rev. David Thompson has been sick for several days with a bad cold, but is now convalescent.

S. J. Mantor, the "333" grocery man, is suffering from an attack of erysipelas to the face. We trust he will soon be around again.

School closed last Friday for a vacation of two weeks. A Christmas tree was given for the children's benefit, and a very enjoyable time was had.

HOGGISH. Ira Barnett paid Pat Endicott last week the neat little sum of $984 for hogs raised by Mr. Endicott, and shipped the same to Kansas City.

Hassard Bros. sold about one thousand sheep in this vicinity last week, moving the remainder to Howard City, where they are feeding some six thousand wethers.

A. F. & A. M. James I. Mitchell has been appointed to serve as Senior Deacon and C. L. Parkey as Junior Deacon of Crescent Lodge No. 133 for the coming year.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, DECEMBER 22, 1880.]

Mrs. Mills has again assumed control of the "Traveler's Home" at Salt City in the stead of Frank Davis, who now confines himself to the management of his drug business.

DIED. In Sumner township, Webster county, Iowa, December 7, 1880, Sadie L. Pepper, aged four years, ten months, and four days, only daughter of S. and E. J. Pepper, formerly of Bolton.

Special Indian Inspector Haworth, who has been in this vicinity for the past week or ten days, left for Washington last Saturday, taking with him ten Indians in charge of Agent Whiting.

DIED. On Saturday last, at the residence of her husband, Mrs. T. J. Rude. Mr. Rude is teaching school in East Centennial district, Silverdale township, where the sad occurrence transpired.

Cowley county had a grand jury this year, and it closed its session last Saturday, having found fifty-one indictments. Several people in the county are feeling somewhat shaky in consequence thereof.

Kroenert & Wood have purchased the room once occupied by

D. S. Rose as a tin shop, and moved it to the back of their grocery. It speaks well for their trade to need more accommodation this soon.

Seven hundred dollars is the amount the county will have to pay in the case of Blackburn versus Conaway, just concluded in the district court by a verdict for the plaintiff. This may safely be charged to the account of King Alcohol, strong drink being the main cause of the affray.

Mitchell & Houston made an able and strenuous defense of Conaway in the "assault-with-intent-to-kill" case last week. Mr. Houston is a talented young attorney who will yet make his mark.

The distributing committee for the Christmas tree at the white church is requested to meet promptly at 7 o'clock p.m. All other committees are solicited to do their best to carry out the programme.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, DECEMBER 22, 1880.]

White Eagle, Standing Buffalo, Black Crow, White Swan, Harry Bear, Big Chief, Big Soldier, Child Chief, Red Leaf, and one other gentleman whose name we could not make out, registered at the City Hotel last Saturday.

The case of the State vs. Ehret, tried at the last term of court for selling liquor contrary to law, was dismissed. No penalty is provided by the constitutional amendment, which is the nearest approach to a law that exists on the subject.

Mr. Frisbee and wife, of Ponca Agency, were in the city last Saturday. We did not envy them their delightful ride of thirty-five miles through the beautiful snow on their return home Sunday morning.

Young Conaway was sentenced to the penitentiary for six months. He owes the mildness of this sentence to the very able defense made by his attorneys, Mitchell & Houston, as the sentiment of the community is strongly against him. He was married but a few weeks before his trial, probably thinking he would be cleared.

On last Wednesday evening the following gentlemen were elected as officers of the Bennett Chapter No. 41, R. A. M., for the ensuing year: High Priest, C. R. Mitchell; King, James Benedict; Scribe, H. P. Farrar; Treasurer, O. P. Houghton;

Secretary, James T. Shepard.

We regret to chronicle the closing of Mr. Wilson's store, by his creditors, on last Friday. Mr. Wilson's embarrassments were due to circumstances impossible to be foreseen or guarded against, and he has the sympathy of the community. The blow falls the heavier as he is an elderly gentleman, and cannot bring the vigor and elasticity of youth to combat his trials.

Searing & Meade sustained quite a loss last Saturday in an accident at the steam and water mill on the Walnut. Some twelve to fifteen hundred bushels of wheat were stored in the north end of the mill directly over the fore-bay, and the floor giving way, the grain was precipitated into the water below. The grain being held in sacks, it is thought a good portion of it can be saved.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, DECEMBER 22, 1880.]

The Methodist folks will have a Christmas tree for the children of their Sabbath school on next Friday evening, December 24. A merry time is guaranteed, and a cordial invitation

extended to all. Following are the various committees.

On General Arrangements. The officers of the ladies' society and of the Sabbath school.

On Procuring Tree: Messrs. Snyder, Chenoweth, Russell, and Felton.

On Decorating Tree: Mr. and Mrs. Hill, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Speers, Mrs. Stevenson, Mrs. Pearson, Mrs. T. C. Warren, Mrs. Snyder, Mrs. Russell, Mrs. Pickering, Mrs. Christian, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Endicott, Mr. and Mrs. Perry.

Distributing Presents: Misses Annie Earhart, Linda Christian, Elva Pickering; Messrs. Cal Swarts, Charles Swarts,

E. A. Barron.

Three men came in from Oklahoma last Saturday. In interviewing them we inquired as to the number of people in the Oklahoma country, there having been rumors circulated to the effect that colonists were pouring in from other quarters. One of them replied that there were several people there. If his memory served him rightly, he thought there were fully four companies on the ground, but he believed they were paid to make this move--not by the railroads, but by Uncle Sam, who had fitted them out with horses, blue suits, and plenty of ammunition, with instructions to remain there and receive all new comers. Our home-bound friends had been "received" and escorted to Fort Reno, where the North Star was pointed out to them and the information vouchsafed that it was healthier up this way. They thought so, too.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, DECEMBER 22, 1880.]

The Central Avenue and City hotels have been indulging in a little friendly rivalry during the past week, in the way of holding out inducements to the traveling public. Mr. Roland, of the Central, started the ball by running a free omnibus to and from the depot for the benefit of his customers, and was immediately met by Mr. France, mine host of the City, who runs a free bus for his transients and day boarders alike. It has been generally supposed that none but editors worked gratuitously, and this exceptional instance makes us feel more at home in the world. The best of feeling prevails among the landlords, but we imagine neither one is making much money by this new departure.

When the Ponca Indians started for Washington from this city last week, the wife of Big Snake, who was killed something over a year ago, was determined to accompany them as far as Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where her son is attending school, and was with difficulty persuaded to stay at home. She had walked from Ponca Agency for this purpose: a distance of thirty-five miles. Big Snake was second chief of the tribe, and stood at the head of a large band of Poncas, and his relict now wants her son and heir to return and assume the leadership left vacant by the death of her noble spouse. She is a powerful woman, and when "on the rampage," has been known to defy the strength of two or three men.

The company having in view the construction of a canal in this city are vigorously prosecuting the enterprise, making drawings, estimates, etc. Competent and disinterested engineers are at work and when their labors are completed, the result will be made public and meetings held, at which all desiring information or having anything to advance, pro or con, will have an opportunity afforded them to discuss the subject in all its bearings. The TRAVELER will keep its readers posted as to what transpires in this matter, and notice of all proposed public meetings will be duly given.

The public are invited to notice the great bargains which O. P. Houghton's closing-out sale offers to all, either by paying cash or trading stock, produce, etc. Mr. Houghton has been one of our best businessmen for the past ten years and is well known by all. While we regret that his health necessitates a change of occupation, we trust he will remain in our midst, and his many patrons can in no way better serve their own interests than by calling at the Green Front as soon as possible.

[SIOUX INDIANS.]

Civilization has made advancement among the Sioux Indians, and the customs and habits of civilized society are being introduced among them. A few days ago Spotted Tail, Jr., a son of the famous chief, eloped in fashionable style with Stranger Horse's wife. The latter was off on a hunting trip at the time, and returned to find his fire gone out, his squaw departed, and his tepee desolate. Gathering his friends about him, he started out with his rifle, threatening the life of the offender. The affair was reported to the agent, who summoned the faithless wife and her paramour to the agency, where they were confronted with the wronged husband. When the agent demanded of young Spot why he had committed this wrong, he said: "She led me into it." After a full hearing of the case, in which the agent acted as a mediator, it was decided that the wounded honor of Stranger Horse should be healed with the gift of a horse and a number of valuable articles, and that he should take back his wife and live with her again. In following the usages of the tribe, Stranger Horse will very likely make the faithless wife a menial, and take another squaw unto him.

[PAYNE AND THE OKLAHOMA COLONISTS.]

Wichita, Kansas, December 31, 1880. It is reported here today, on reliable authority, that Maj. Bloss, of the Oklahoma colonists, sent a peremptory challenge to Lieut. Wood, at Caldwell, yesterday. Capt. Parry is there as the second of Maj. Bloss, who also carried the message.

Fort Smith, Arkansas, December 31. David L. Payne, of Oklahoma fame, by his attorneys, Baker, Krum and Boudinot, of St. Louis, today filed his answer to the suit pending against him in the United States court, for unlawfully entering and remaining in the Indian Territory.

By his answer he avers that he was not at the time charged in the complaint in any part of the Indian country owned or occupied by any Indian tribe at the time charged in the complaint, and for some time prior thereto, he, as a citizen of the United States, was located on lands belonging to the United States exclusively, within the limits of the Indian Territory, and to which no Indian or Indian tribe had any right or title whatever; that his location and settlement was made upon lands purchased by the United States from the Creek and Seminole Indians by a treaty ratified in August, 1866, and that said lands are a part of the public domain. He denies that he was removed from any part of the Indian country embracing lands belonging to any tribe of Indians or to which any tribe of Indians had any right whatever, but claims that he has been wrongfully and unlawfully ejected from his said settlement upon the public domain by the military forces of the United States, and claims damages in the sum of $20,000.

[AD: WALNUT MILLS - SEARING & MEAD.]

The Walnut Mills now run on full time and are prepared for merchant work and to exchange grists on short notice.

Will be prepared to grind corn and feed in about one week.

SEARING & MEAD.

[PERSONALS.]

Of the citizens of Arkansas City on Thursday night, January 6, 1881, at the school house, for the purpose of talking over the projected canal and the subject of bonds. Come one, come all, and let us have a general exchange of views.

By Order of the Council.

DIED. December 23, 1880, Willie Kramer, aged eighteen months.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 5, 1881.]

Read the article on our fourth page concerning the navigation of the Arkansas river. [I PUT ARTICLE NEXT!]

ARKANSAS RIVER NAVIGATION.

In pursuance of a previous notice, a meeting of the citizens of Ft. Smith was held at the court room in Fort Smith on Saturday evening, December 18, 1880.

On motion Capt. A. H. Reynolds was called to the chair and C. M. Barnes appointed secretary. The chairman stated the object of the meeting, which was to cooperate with the citizens of Kansas in improving the navigation of the Arkansas river.

Mayor Brizzolari submitted the following preamble and resolutions, which were adopted.

The following gentlemen were appointed as such executive committee: Hon. I. C. Parker, Hon. Wm. M. Fishback, Hon. James Brizzolari, Hon. B. T. DuVal, Col. Thomas Marcum. On motion it was resolved that Capt. A. H. Reynolds should be added to the said committee.

It was further resolved that the Ft. Smith newspapers and other papers favorable be requested to publish the proceedings of this meeting, when, on motion, the meeting adjourned to meet again at the call of the executive committee.

A. H. REYNOLDS, Chairman.

C. M. BARNES, Secretary.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 5, 1881.]

Messrs. Searing & Mead's steam and water mill, on the Walnut, is now running on full time.

Col. Whiting, with the ten Ponca chiefs who have been visiting Washington, returned last Monday.

A Mr. Reiter, of Kansas City, has just opened a tailor shop in the room over Mantor's store. See his special.

AD: FRANK REITER, the Tailor, is here from Kansas City, and has opened a shop over Mantor's Store. A perfect fitting garment guaranteed. Remember the place--over Mantor's Store.

Respectfully, FRANK REITER.

DIED. In Bolton township, on Monday last, January 3, Mr. George Trost. Funeral today at one o'clock p.m.

BIRTH. D. J. Coburn, of Grouse, is now happy over the advent of a fine boy. Though he came a little early for the holidays, D. J. thinks he's boss for a Christmas gift.

Our former townsman, Thomas E. Berry, now Indian trader at Pawnee Agency, spent several days in the city last week, having a good time with his many friends here.

L. C. Wood, now engaged with Capt. Curtis in removing the obstructions from the channel of the Arkansas river, with a view to making the same navigable, was in town last week.

DIED. On Monday, December 27, 1881, at her house on Lower Grouse creek, Mrs. Ellen Williams. She leaves a husband and three small children to mourn the loss of wife and mother.

Lieut. Wood, in command of a detachment of soldiers, arrived in town last Monday, and is now encamped on the Walnut near Harmon's ford. He expects to be reinforced shortly.

Miss Bowman and Miss Wyckoff, of Pawnee Agency, have been spending a few days in the City. They returned yesterday morning, accompanied by Mrs. Bowman, who arrived from Rock Island, Illinois, on Monday's train.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 5, 1881.]

Mr. F. C. Newman, of Emporia, is spending a few days with his relatives in this city. It has been three years since Fred was among us, and he now brings a handsome wife and child to share the welcomes of his friends.

The undersigned would acknowledge the kindness of the ladies connected with the U. P. Sabbath school for the present of a fine cake on Christmas.

R. L. MARSHALL.

DEAD. In a letter from Animas City, Colorado, of the 25th ult., sent to us by A. S. Duncan, City Marshall, we learn that Sam Swinford, a former resident of Bolton township, was shot and killed at Durango, in a dance house, on the 23rd of December last.

BIRTH. Born to the wife of J. N. Badley, of Grouse creek, on Tuesday, December 28, a boy; regulation weight and a pound over. No wonder J. N. smiled when he informed the TRAVELER that the house of Badley rejoiced in a son and heir.

The leading citizens of Arkansas City are proposing to utilize the Arkansas river at that point for water power for manufacturing purposes by digging a canal from it to the Walnut, whereby fifteen feet fall can be secured. Emporia News.

MARRIED. On Christmas day, 1880, at the residence of the bride's parents, in Sumner county, Kansas, by Rev. S. B. Fleming, Mr. George Metcalf and Lizzie E. Dean.

Agent Bowman, of the Pawnee Agency, favored us with a call. He is a pleasant gentleman, and is immensely popular, both with the Indians and employees under his charge.

Capt. Curtis, in command of the party for opening up the Arkansas river, is constructing a boat on the Walnut (near Pat Endicott's place), the same being 18 feet beam by 70 long, to be used as a commissary by the command. The boat will be covered with canvas, and will add greatly to the comfort of those engaged in the undertaking.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 5, 1881.]

A meeting of the representative men of Kansas, Arkansas, and the Indian Territory will be held at Wichita today for the purpose of talking up and advocating measures looking to the opening of the Arkansas river for navigation. This is one of the most important questions for the above mentioned States now on the tapis, and a successful result would give them market facilities second to none in the United States.

From the Burden Enterprise, we learn that Wendall Williston, once a resident of Silver Creek township, this county, graduated this year from Yale College, the highest of American colleges, with high honors. He was immediately employed as teacher in that institution with a salary for the first year of $1,500, to be increased to $2,000 the second year. Considering the difficulty of graduating from that institution, this is an honor to the State as well as to himself.

Some parties having hogs to sell recently went to Winfield and were offered a good price, but too much shortage was demanded. They then came to Arkansas City, where, although a lower price was given for the hogs, yet the shortage was on a fairer basis, and the sellers realized $11.45 more than if they had sold at Winfield. This fact needs no comment at our hands. We simply state the case as it happened, and leave our farmer friends to draw their own conclusions.

A new flour and grist mill is to be erected on the Walnut, about five miles from town, on land formerly owned by L. Finley, Esq. The gentlemen having charge of the enterprise are Messrs. Morton and Prickett, practical millers, to whom Mr. Finley has donated ten and sold twenty-five acres of land bordering on the river. The timbers and all material will be on the ground by the 1st day of May, from which time work will be pushed rapidly forward. They will start with two runs of burrs, and their location guarantees them a profitable business.

"A public meeting will be held in the school house tomorrow (Thursday) evening, at 7 o'clock sharp, the object of which is the discussion of the canal project now pending before the people. Every voter and tax-payer should be on hand, and hear the subject discussed in all its bearings. Already are the papers throughout the State noticing this proposed scheme, and it is everywhere regarded as a step in the right direction. If you have any suggestions or objections to offer on this question, do not fail to attend and give the meeting the benefit of your

opinion.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 5, 1881.]

FROM SILVERDALE.

SILVERDALE, DEC. 23, 1881.

Christmas has come and gone once more, with the anticipations and pleasures that bring glad hearts to the aged as well as the young. The Christmas tree at the Silverdale school house was a success in every respect. It was a beautiful cedar, festooned with an almost endless array of popcorn, and was well loaded with presents of every description. One present particularly worth mentioning was the suit of clothes presented to Rev. Phillips by the neighborhood. Rev. Phillips devotes a great deal of his time to the ministry without salary, and it is right that he should be remembered on such occasions.

Rumor says W. T. Estus has gone to Colorado for a life partner.

Thomas Dakan is building a good farm cottage.

Mr. Rolason is also building on his farm, lately purchased of John Herbert.

We were glad to see the appointment of J. C. Topliff as postmaster at Arkansas City. He has been a faithful and attentive assistant, and surely deserves the appointment.

Harklerood and Irons are feeding a lot of steers for the spring market.

R. C. Scott returned from Colorado Christmas eve.

Plenty of snow and dark nights during Christmas time, which, according to the old folks, is a sure sign of health and good crops. OBSERVER.

With Christmas and its festivities come thoughts of friends, present and absent; and the most natural desire is to offer some token of true friendship to those whose memory is cherished. Following the promptings of this desire with a cheerfulness and eagerness which showed how warm and lasting was their friendship for the far-away recipient, a few of the school children of this city raised the necessary sum and purchased that magnificent copy of "The Ancient Mariner," which was forthwith sent by express to their former tutor, C. H. Sylvester, at Boscobel, Wisconsin. Our friend, Mr. Sylvester, did effective work in his chosen field, educating both heart and mind. While we would much prefer hearing his acknowledgment "by word of mouth," we take pleasure in publishing the following.

BOSCOBEL, WISCONSIN, Dec. 27, 1880.

Through the columns of your paper I desire to express my sincere thanks for the elegant edition of "The Ancient Mariner" received from Arkansas City friends. I ardently wish that their lives may be as happy as they have made my Christmas.

Respectfully yours,

C. H. SYLVESTER.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 5, 1881.]

The Monitor is slightly in error as to the amount of fall to be obtained by this canal. Instead of ten feet, the Arkansas is found to be twenty-two feet higher than the Walnut, which will give us a water power equaled only by the falls of Niagara and St. Anthony.

Our thriving and enterprising county seat has begun to agitate the question of Cowley county coal. All geologists of prominence that have been consulted are of the opinion that at a considerable depth a rich and almost exhaustless field of coal exists in the vicinity of Winfield. Fully alive to the importance of this fact, and realizing the vast commercial benefits to be derived from the successful operation of a series of coal shafts, some of Winfield's best men have taken the subject under consideration. Judging from the conversation we listened to last week while at the county seat, these parties mean business, and will shortly come to the front with a proposition, the success of which means the lasting prosperity of Winfield and Cowley county.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 5, 1881.]

An election has been called by the county commissioners for the purpose of voting on the proposition to sell the county's stock in the Cowley, Sumner & Fort Smith and Southern Kansas & Western railroads--the proceeds to be applied to the payment or purchase of the outstanding bonds of this county. Tuesday, February 1, is the day designated for the election. We understand the county is offered seventy-five cents on the dollar for this stock, which is everywhere considered an exceptionally good offer.

The U. P. Church held their annual dinner and sociable on Christmas day this year for the benefit of their Sabbath school. Recitations by the little folks, an essay by Miss Anna Y. Thompson, and addresses by Dr. Reed and the pastor were first heard, when a dinner of no mean proportions was enjoyed by all, followed by a genuine sociable--good music adding variety throughout. We hope these meetings will become an established custom among our good people, as they are productive of good if wisely conducted.

The jolliest skating party of the season came off yesterday. All present were bent on enjoyment and how well they succeeded may be inferred from the verdict passed by the youngest lady present--Miss Mary Matlack--"awfully splendid."

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 5, 1881.]

The committee appointed to investigate affairs at Ponca Agency, and ascertain the truth concerning the charges made by the notorious E. H. Tibbles throughout the East, arrived yesterday noon, and were immediately conveyed to Ponca. The party consists of Gen. George Crook, Gen. Nelson A. Miles, U. L. Roberts, John G. Bourke, E. L. Higgins, of the U. S. Army; Wm. Stickney, of the Interior Department; Walter Allen, special correspondent of the Boston Advertiser, J. Owen Dorsey, Washington, and Special Indian Inspector Haworth. It has begun to dawn upon the Boston philanthropists that their pet, Tibbles, was a fraud, and was only making capital out of their gullibility.

[THE PONCA TRIBE.]

Washington, Dec. 27. The Ponca Indian chiefs today had another long interview with Secretary Schurz at the Interior Department. Standing Buffalo and White Eagle were the principal spokesmen, and in making known their wants they seemed anxious about the school houses and educational facilities for their children. Secretary Schurz informed them that a school house is being built at the reservation, and would be rushed to completion as rapidly as possible. He also informed them he hoped the pending Indian severalty bill would be passed during the present session of Congress, and that as soon as it became a law each one of them would be given a farm, the title to which would be as valid as that of a white man's.

At the conclusion of the speeches, and after some explanations by Secretary Schurz, the ten chiefs signed the paper that they had requested be drawn up, in which they declared their desire to remain on the lands now occupied by the Poncas in the Indian Territory, and to establish permanent homes there, and also expressed their willingness to relinquish all their right and interest in all lands formerly owned or occupied by the Ponca tribe in the state of Nebraska and Territory of Dakota. In compensation for land as well as for personal property at the time of their removal to the Indian Territory in 1877, and for depredations committed upon them by the Sioux Indians, they ask Congress to appropriate the sum of $148,000. The same sum was asked for in the bill submitted by the Indian department two years ago.

After enumerating some purposes for which they desire to have this sum expended or invested, the paper closes as follows:

"We declare this to be an expression of our free will and desire, as well as that of our people at present residing on the Ponca reservation in the Indian Territory, and we ask that this declaration and request be submitted to the Congress of the United States for its favorable consideration and action."

The papers bear the signatures of the Ponca chiefs present, and the certificates of the interpreters.

[ANOTHER RAILROAD: GOULD EXTENSION OF M., K. & T.]

Yesterday afternoon our citizens assembled to hear the agents of Jay Gould make a proposition to this township for another railroad--the extension of the M., K. & T. from Independence to this point. It is their plan to build this road by township aid alone, and to complete it to Arkansas City by January 1, 1882. The amount of aid asked for is very small. We shall speak at length on this subject next week.

[THE CANAL.]

A mass meeting of our citizens was held in the schoolhouse last Thursday night for the purpose of discussing the merits and demerits of constructing a canal from the Arkansas to the Walnut river. Despite the stinging cold weather, the house was crowded, showing the interest manifested by our people in this import project.

The meeting was called to order by Dr. Chapel, and on motion of A. A. Newman, he was elected chairman. J. C. Topliff was chosen as secretary, and the business of the evening commenced.

I. H. Bonsall was first called for, who prefaced his remarks with the statement that he had no interest in this matter other than as a taxpayer in common with hundreds of our citizens; but he had been requested to lay before the meeting the modus

operandi of this canal project that the voters might act intelligently thereon.

For the benefit of all interested we hereby give as clear a statement of the proposition as possible.

It has been several years since the question of a race or canal between the two rivers was first talked of--it being quite apparent that there was considerable fall, and consequently a good water power, to be obtained by so doing. But, while all were satisfied that the fall was there, and were agreed upon the great advantages its successful development would give to our city, it was equally clear that they lacked one essential agent in such an undertaking--the wherewith or cash.

Last spring Mr. James Hill, a gentleman of considerable wealth, came to Arkansas City, and at once purchased property with the intention of making his home here. He is a civil engineer, and has had large experience in railroad building and projects similar to the one now before the people. It was not long ere his attention was called to these two rivers, but until less than two months ago, he had not made a definite proposition to our citizens. After some talk with the leading businessmen, he went before the council with a proposition for the city to furnish aid in the sum of $20,000 and he would guarantee the construction of a canal giving a 500-horsepower, his estimated cost of which was from $40,000 to $50,000. An election being ordered to determine whether the city should vote bonds to further this enterprise, competent and disinterested engineers were sent for, that a survey could be made; and by their report and estimates, the people could be governed. Messrs. Knight & Bontecou, of Kansas City, spent several days at this business, and make the following report.

Fall between the two rivers, 21.8 ft. Length of canal, about three miles. Two estimates were made on the cost of construction.

1. A canal 34 feet wide on surface of water, 6 feet deep, and 10 feet wide on the bottom, will require about 294,000 yards of excavation, at a cost of $44,100; gates for 700-horsepower, $14,000. Total: $58,100.

2. For a canal 32 feet wide on surface of water, 5.5 feet deep, and ten feet wide on bottom, 244,000 cubic yards of excavation, $36,600; gates for 500-horsepower, $13,000.

Total: $49,600.

These estimates do not include the usual 10 percent margin claimed by all engineers in giving estimates of cost.

Mr. Hill's plan is to secure the aid asked for from the city, in which case he guarantees the construction of the canal, let it cost forty, fifty, or sixty thousand dollars.

As soon as the election is held, if favorable, the books of the company will be open for the sale of stock to any desiring to purchase. Shares are to cost $25 each, and each share is to have one vote. The city, by its agent (whomsoever may be chosen to act as such), will be entitled to 800 votes at all meetings and on all questions bearing on the disposition of stock, and the city's stock shall not be sold or disposed of without consent of a majority of the legal voters in the city.

These books will be open thirty days, at the expiration of which time Mr. Hill will take all stock unsold. Mr. Hill is to give bond for the faithful performance of his contract, bond to be approved by the city's agents.

Mr. Bonsall dwelt at some length on the advantages offered by this scheme in the way of furnishing employment to the idle ones among us, besides bringing many more people to our city.

Mr. Hill was next called for, and said that as the gentleman preceding him had stated the case very clearly, it now remained for the people to determine whether it was worthy of their support. That it would pay, he did not doubt, as he had no idea of coming here and sinking his money between two rivers. He was confident capitalists would come as soon as the power was obtained, as that was the greatest obstacle. It was not necessary to wait for outsiders to come in and build mills. Our own businessmen could make a big thing in building and running flour mills. As proof of this he cited that in 1879 Cowley county raised 700,000 bushels of wheat, and in the coming year it was fair to presume this amount would be increased to 1,000,000 bushels, which could be ground by the mills placed on this canal instead of shipping it away. He for one would put up a mill before waiting on Eastern capital.

A. C. Williams was called up and opposed the project because he thought it cost too much, and he wanted the canal to run on the town site. He was of the opinion that a canal answering all the purposes of the one proposed could be built for $3,000 or $4,000, upon which Mr. Newman promptly guaranteed him a bonus of $2,000 in case he would give bond for the completion of such a canal for $5,000.

C. M. Scott also thought it cost too much money, and while admiring the spirit and grit of the town, suggested that it was too heavy a burden to saddle on a small community.

Mr. Newman believed we had a fair and square proposition before us, and thought every effort of this kind helped to build up our town. Mr. Newman has had large experience with water power, and is strongly in favor of this scheme, believing it will insure lasting success to our city, and that if we are wide awake, we can induce Eastern capitalists to come in.

Many others followed with their opinions for and against, after which Mr. Hill was recalled to answer some points in dispute, and at the close of the meeting the general sentiment was strongly in favor of the canal. The main opposers at the start are now in favor of voting the aid asked, and the bonds will be carried "by a large majority."

The meeting adjourned to last night, everybody feeling better for having attended.

[T. W. GANT, SILVERDALE, WRITES RE CANAL PROJECT.]

SILVERDALE, January 10, 1881.

Editor Traveler: I was glad to see the enterprise of your citizens manifested in the effort to construct a canal from the Arkansas to the Walnut river, with a view to securing water power--which proposition is now pending before your people.

It is a move in the right direction, and worthy of an enterprising people; but it seems that some of your voters do not favor this project. I cannot see how anyone interested in the present or future prosperity of Arkansas City can oppose this enterprise. If it were an experiment of doubtful success, I could better account for the opposition; but the practicability of conveying water from one point to another has long been demonstrated. The only question of importance is the amount of fall to be obtained. Insufficient fall would of necessity make a failure of any such scheme; but where the fall is ample, all obtstacles must yield to business enterprise. Your engineers report nearly twenty-two feet fall, which is certainly all anyone could ask for, and of itself guarantees success. Thus the greatest obstacle in a project of this nature is removed.

Another question entitled to consideration is, will it pay? If it won't pay, the less we have to do with it, the better; but if it will, all should join in pushing the work rapidly forward. There is no doubt in my mind on this point. The estimated cost is from $40,000 to $50,000. This money will be paid out in your city. It is not like the money used in building railroads, two-thirds of which goes for material; but almost the entire amount will be paid out for actual labor. Can anyone doubt that all would be benefited by this money being paid out in your midst?

"But," says one, "how about the future benefits of the enterprise? How are we to be compensated for this $20,000 bearing 7 percent interest for twenty years?"

I would ask that person whether $20,000 divided among your taxpayers would pay them for having the two mills now at Arkansas City closed for twenty years, and the building of others forbidden for that length of time? Certainly not. In twenty years you couldn't find your town site. If, then, it would be bad policy to sell what you now have in that line for $20,000, would it not pay to buy twice or thrice that amount for the same sum, to be a permanent fixture?

But will not your city receive a return in the way of taxes equal to her outlay? If the city owned half the canal and private capital half, you would have $20,000 to be taxed for the city's benefit. Again, it is a low estimate to say that within five years from its completion there will be $30,000 worth of milling and other property on it, and likely many times that amount before the twenty years are out. $50,000 would be a low estimate for the twenty years. Four percent annual tax would bring $2,000 per year; the interest on the bonds would be $1,400, leaving a balance of $600 yearly for a sinking fund, not to speak of the great increase in other taxable property that would come in. A large revenue would be obtained by the city from rentals for the use of the water power.

There is certainly no reason why is should not pay. I have not attempted to estimate the increase in population and wealth that would be yours, but it certainly would be very large. Then let everyone be found in the front line pushing this enterprise to successful completion, and the future of your city is assured.

Respectfully,

T. W. GANT.

[PERSONALS.]

Next Friday--vote for the bonds.

Our genial friend, Bohle, of St. Louis, is with us again, having arrived last Monday.

The Government has asked the Osages for ten children, to be sent to Carlisle to be educated.

A Payne-killer is wanted in Southern Kansas, warranted to remove Payne for good on short notice.

The election for voting bonds to aid in the construction of a canal is appointed to be held next Friday.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 12, 1881.]

From a letter to one of our citizens, we learn that Capt. Payne will be here with the Oklahoma boomers some time this week. He may come, and he may not.

The Ladies' Temperance Society meets at the residence of Mrs. Williams, on North Summit street, Friday afternoon at 3 o'clock. All members are requested to be present.

'Gene Eddy has a new "ad." in this issue, and the handsomest drug store in the Southwest. It is a pleasure to trade with him, and he is somewhat pleased to have you call on him.

AD: Paints, Oil and Window Glass.

School Books and Stationery.

Plated Silverware--Rogers & Smith's--at Cost.

EDDY'S DRUG STORE!

GOLD PENS, CHOICE BOOKS.

Musical Instruments of all Kinds.

Perfumery and Fancy Articles.

J. A. Wickline, for some time past of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and formerly of Bolton township, returned to this county last Saturday, and will probably spend the winter in Kansas.

The patrons of livery stables are requested to notice the new advertisement of D. A. McIntire in this issue. He has a good stable and will make it to your interests to patronize him.

AD: PARLOR LIVERY,

D. A. McINTIRE, Proprietor.

GOOD TEAMS

Furnished on short notice and at

Lower Prices

Than heretofore.

An omnibus is kept for the benefit of excursion parties and meets all trains.

Stables on Fifth Avenue, just east of Newman's Store.

Dr. Dobyns writes us from Southport, Indiana, that he is still wrestling with a protracted spell of sickness, but he has no idea of going under, and wants his paper forwarded to that point.

Some of the soldier boys had a "bit of a time" last Monday, trying to get up a corner on whiskey. After they had sobered off somewhat, the Lieutenant let them carry logs by way of amusement.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 12, 1881.]

We understand Secretary Schurz has instructed Agent Miles to order all white herders off the Osage reservation, and to issue permits only to those who may be employed by widows and orphans.

France, of the City Hotel, says he likes to have a good run and all that, but it is too much of a good thing to have his house so full, on these cold nights, that he has to sit up until daylight in order to accommodate his customers.

Capt. C. M. Scott left for Topeka last Saturday, having accepted the position of reporter for the Commonwealth during the legislature. C. M. Wants to lay around with the Solons this winter and thinks he might as well have something to pay expenses while he is at it.

Mr. T. W. Gant, whose correspondence may be seen elsewhere, is comparatively a newcomer in this country, and is probably a stranger to many of our readers. He is a practical mechanic, however, of twenty-five years' experience, and his views are worth listening to.

Houghton & Speers are probably doing the most flourishing business in the city now, with the stock of goods lately owned by Mr. Wilson. The goods were purchased at one-half the invoiced price, and are sold remarkably low. Look at their new advertisement in this issue and give them a call.

AD: WHOLESALE SLAUGHTER OF DRY GOODS,

BOOTS AND SHOES.

Having purchased the entire stock, we are now ready to offer to the public the

Bankrupt Stock

-at the-

"Solid Rock"

-Store, at-

One-Half the Actual Value

of the Goods, for

20 DAYS

ONLY.

They will be sold at 25 percent less than the actual cost, in order to close them out. We have a large stock of Ladies', Gents', and Children's Boots and Shoes, Flannels, Jeans, Dress Goods, Cheviots, Ladies' Hosiery, Ladies' Cloaks and Skirts.

DRESS TRIMMINGS

and in fact, everything you need, in the Dry Goods line. You cannot afford to miss this chance of getting goods at one-half their actual value.

Don't forget the place--at Wilson's

"Solid Rock"

STORE, IN THE STONE BLOCK.

Respectfully,

HOUGHTON & SPEERS.

Arkansas City, January 12, 1881.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 12, 1881.]

T. J. Gilbert, trader at Kaw Agency, was in town yesterday. Mr. Gilbert says the weather has been a little cold in the Nation, and in corroboration of the statement remarked that he was putting up some thirty tons of ice for use during the heated term.

Two gamblers from Caldwell, named Kinney and Philips, came over to this city last Friday, for the purpose of playing the soldiers out of their money. Lieut. Wood notified the authorities of their scheme, and on last Monday night the gentlemen were "pulled" at their game by Marshall Sinnott, and on Tuesday the Mayor called for $50 and costs from them. Good for our Mayor. If the game is repeated, they will get a heavier dose next time.

Mr. Harold Gooch, of Bonham, Texas, brother of our esteemed townsman, Wyard Gooch, came in on the noon train last Monday to pay a visit to relatives and friends in this, his former home. Since last we had the pleasure of shaking hands with him, Father Time has been busy, but yet Harold is the same genial, whole-souled boy that was the life of the bachelors' party that gathered round the fire in the days of "Auld Lang Syne." We hope "he may still prosper, and reap the reward to which his business and social qualities so eminently entitle him.

Brother Blakeney is on the high road to success. His present quarters are too small for his increased trade, in consequence of which he will move his stock of groceries to the building formerly occupied by S. Matlack, opposite the Creswell Bank, about the 15th of this month. In addition to this he proposes taking a partner in the person of Mr. Snyder, and the new firm will carry a much larger stock than heretofore. Our wishes for the success of the new firm are seconded by their host of friends.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 12, 1881.]

Cowley county's legislative team left for Topeka last Monday. There are no stronger three men in the State than Hackney, Mitchell, and Lemmon. The editorial friends of our State Senator are working up quite a prospective boom for him in the Congressional race two years hence. Here's willing.

At a Sheriff sale in Winfield last Saturday, Schiffbauer Bros. bought 15,000 cigars. They are of fine flavor, and purchased as they were at a discount, the boys are enabled to offer an extra good article for a small price.

[LETTER FROM "B." - SALT CITY.]

SALT CITY, Jan. 9, 1881.

Holidays, Christmas and New Years, passed off pleasantly. We had a nice tree full of precious gifts for the little ones.

Business is brisking up since the holidays.

Prospects are good for a railroad now--it is being talked up by our citizens. We anticipate good things and times in the future.

We also expect a large grist mill to be erected on the bank of the river near town. The gentleman is a stranger to us that will execute this enterprise.

The salt water question is being agitated here again, and is becoming very strong, with new men in the field--men that have plenty of money. They have become convinced of the fact at last that thousands of barrels of salt run away weekly, which is equivalent to thousands of dollars being swallowed up by the treacherous Arkansas. These men mean business, and the work will boom here next spring. They mean to buy or lease.

The bath house is in good running order.

Some Indiana men have rented Mr. Near's place west of town, and Mr. Near will move to town.

Mr. Berkey made a sale of some town property--the remains of his windmill, which is put up in the shape of a house. It makes a good wind break.

Wm. Rish, our blacksmith, has rented out his shop to James Millson, of Hunnewell, formerly of this place.

B.

[INDIAN SCHOOL AT CARLISLE, PENNSYLVANIA.]

After the band of fierce warriors brought to Fort Madison in chains had returned to their homes in the Indian Territory, civilized, industrious men, Capt. Pratt, to whose efforts this change was due, was anxious to continue in this new Indian warfare, where the weapons were Christian love and interest. His next victory was the placing, by the authority of the Interior Department, of forty-nine Indian children at Hampton Institute.

The military barracks at Carlisle, Pennsylvania, were unoccupied by troops. Pleasantly located, the commodious buildings well adapted to such use, Capt. Pratt decided that this was the place for an Indian school. Educational work on an Indian reserve is doubly difficult, because the teaching of the schools is so much counteracted by the evil influences of home associations. When Capt. Pratt laid before Secretary Schurz his plan of utilizing the Carlisle Barracks for an Indian school, the Secretary at once gave it his cordial approval, and by his powerful support, with the cooperation of the War Department, the school was opened.

The first delegation of eighty-four boys and girls from Red Cloud and Spotted Tail's bands of Sioux arrived in October, 1879. These children were fresh from the lodges, utterly wild and uncivilized, clad in their savage garb, with long unkempt hair and painted faces. The task of civilization seemed hopeless. The first lessons were on the uses of soap and water, of scissors and comb, and then the blankets and moccasins were laid aside for coats, shoes, and dresses. The number of pupils at present in the school is 212. The tribes represented are Apaches, Arapahoes, Cheyennes, Comanches, Kiowas, Wichita, Poncas, Pawnees, Nez Perces, Menomonees, Keechis, Towaconnis, Pueblos, Seminoles, Iowas, Sacs, Foxes, and Lipans. Applications for the admission of children from other tribes are constantly received, and it is anticipated that the number will ere long reach 300, the full capacity of the school.

In deed as well as in name, it is an "Indian Training School," and its object is to make its students useful, self-reliant people, competent to support themselves by their own exertions. They are therefore trained in industrial pursuits. In the kitchen, dining-room, and laundry, the girls receive careful instructions in household duties. In the sewing-room they learn to cut, make, and mend garments. Many of them use the sewing machine very skillfully, and it is quite amusing on mending days to see the group of little ones gathered about the great basket of stockings to be darned.

Connected with the schools are shops where the boys receive instruction in various trades. Those who are apprenticed spend two days at work and four in school each week. There are tailors, shoemakers, carpenters, blacksmiths, tinners, wagon and harness makers, printers, and bakers. The wagon makers and harness makers and trimmers are kept busy in filling orders for goods to be supplied by the Indian Department to Indians on the reservations. The printers do considerable work for the school, and one of them, a Pawnee boy of fourteen, edits a tiny paper, "School News," which is made up from the unaided productions of the students. The other apprentices are employed in needful work for the school. All receive sixteen cents a day for the time they work, and thus they have opportunities for lessons in economy and prudence in spending money. Twelve of the boys are organized into a brass band, and are able to play quite a number of pieces in a manner which does them much credit.

The teaching of the school rooms is by such methods as experience has shown to be best adapted to pupils with no knowledge of English. The progress made has been such as to satisfy the most sanguine expectations. Every month a report is sent to each student's parents, telling of the conduct, health, and scholarship of the student during the month. The report is accompanied by a letter from the student, so that at least once a month a message of peace goes to the distant lodges. Most of the children write oftener than once a month. They are governed kindly yet firmly. They are not hampered by useless regulations, but those that exist must be strictly kept. The pupils are never whipped. Most of them attend religious services in the various churches of Carlisle. Those who do not go to the Sabbath schools in the town are taught in the chapel, and on Sunday afternoons there is a service conducted by one of the ministers from Carlisle. Once a week there is a students' prayer meeting.

This sketch will show the important work that is going on at this Indian school. There ought to be many such schools. The United States Government is bound by its treaty stipulations with almost every Indian tribe to provide educational advantages for all the children of the tribe, and in not a single instance is this contract fulfilled.

Is it not time our nation should begin to keep its promises to these people? Let the Carlisle school be but a beginning, and the work started by Capt. Pratt be carried forward at many another point. Hundreds, yes thousands, of Indian children are begging for the teaching which should be given them not as a charity, but as their right.

[MORE ABOUT PAYNE AND THE OKLAHOMA BOOMERS.]

Most of the Oklahoma boys are at home again. Fourteen of these enterprising gentlemen were looking for the editor of the Eagle, headed by chaplain Weaver. For three days we did our principal traveling through alleys and side streets. Maj. Bloss had challenged Lieut. Wood on Friday, and we heard that Payne was a regular peripatetic arsenal. As good luck would have it, we were caught by a divided squad, and, of course, no seven boomers could get away with us. The boys are a jolly set, socially, bright and brave, but the U. S. army is too many for them.

It is said that Dr. Wilson, who went to Washington in behalf of the Oklahoma settlers to try to induce the President to espouse their cause, met with a repulse. President Hayes refused to order or modify his position, and has told Wilson that if the colonists attempted to enter the Indian Territory they will be considered as violators of the law, and treated as such.

However that may be, a secret and confidential circular was sent out on the 28th over Payne's fist, announcing that, for the time being, they had been stopped and that the next move would be to concentrate five thousand men on the lands before planting time. Our opinion is, and it is the advice for which we charge nothing, that until Congress takes some favorable action it is time and wind thrown away--as for money the boys had none to squander in the first place. Wichita Eagle.

[JUDGE CAMPBELL SAYS GOOD-BYE. ARTICLE BY WICHITA EAGLE.]

Judge William P. Campbell, preceding the adjournment of court last Saturday, in a few well chosen remarks, took leave of the bar and courts of the Thirteenth judicial district. His words were not the vehicle of any cheap clap-trap or sickly sentimentality, but were words of wisdom and soberness, given of no inconsiderable experience on the bench. . . . .

Judge Campbell has occupied the bench ever since the organization of the district. Following an appointment in the first place, he was twice elected, making something like nine years of continuous service in one of the most responsible, as it is the most exalted positions known to civil government.

He being off, we can without restraint or fear of any charge of ulterior motives, speak plain. Mr. Campbell was very young when he first assumed the wool sack, and he is still young; but no one will not say that "with fair round belly, eyes severe and full of wise saws," [LAST WORD ??? FIRST LETTER IMPOSSIBLE TO READ...COULD BE RAWS...COULD BE CAWS...?] he played his part. Upon the other hand, he has ever been one of the people, free of all affectation, and of even the ordinary reserve and bearing of the majority of the incumbents of like stations. He has proved to be a man of ideas and of positive convictions, and on and off the bench has never shown the least hesitancy in expressing them whenever occasion required.

Too unreserved and outspoken has he been for a successful politician, yet in that role few cared to measure arms with him. As a judge, per se, he may have had his faults, but that he is learned in the law, and that he loved justice for justice's sake, we are not only convinced, but his recorded judgments are proof that will stand the test of time's review. Industrious by nature and ambitious in temperament, he successfully and equitably disposed of the business of the most populous district in the State, while occupants of other benches lagged and despaired.

Judge Campbell will enter the practice of the court over which he so long presided. He has opened an office in the Field building, second story, nearly opposite the post office. That he will rank with the best as with the most successful lawyers of this section, probably no one doubts. He says he is done with politics and office. However that may be, he will find time to most thoroughly look after and defend the interests of those who entrust their business with him.

With thousands of others, we most heartily wish Judge Campbell a success commensurate with his ability and ambition.

[THE NEW RAILROAD.]

Respecting the new railroad project, of which we made brief mention last week, there have been no further developments. Messrs. Brown and Matthewson, two prominent men in railroad circles, have been through the southern tier of counties in this State on a tour of observation--their object being to feel the public pulse and report to their chief, Mr. J. Gould. They were not authorized to make any contracts with the townships along the line, but could give the people an idea of what their company would expect or ask in the way of aid.

The projected road is to leave the M., K. & T. at Parsons, and proceed westward as near the State line as possible, township aid being asked the entire distance. For the miles of road built in this county, they will want about $75,000 in township bonds, the road to be completed by the 1st of January, 1882.

Some thirteen miles of railroad will be built in this township, for which they only ask $30,000. In obedience to the request of Winfield parties, Messrs. Brown and Matthewson visited our county seat and listened to a proposition from them, but said their instructions were to go to Arkansas City; and consequently they could not entertain a proposition from Winfield.

It is not the purpose of the company to build to Winfield if they can secure the aid asked for from the southern townships. Our farmers will do well to think and talk of this matter among themselves, that they may be prepared to act intelligently upon the question whenever it is presented for their action. We will gladly publish views on this question from the farmers.

[THE NEW RAILROAD: ARTICLE BY WINFIELD MONITOR.]

The proposed operations of corporations are always involved in more or less of doubt and mystery. Managers of great lines are very reticent and very slow to give information. When the development of a new project has reached a certain stage, then an intelligent editor with that beginning, and scattered information that he can pick up, may be able to outline projects which appear mysterious.

During the past week Gould, through his officers, has obtained charters for two new roads. One running from Le Roy, the present terminus of the Missouri Pacific, through the counties of Coffey, Woodson, Greenwood, Butler, Sedgwick, Kingman, then southwest through Harper, and then west. The other road starts at Parsons, in Labette county, which is the junction of the old M., K. & T., running southwest through the counties of Labette, Montgomery, Chautauqua, Cowley, Sumner, Harper, where it will probably join the first mentioned line.

Last Monday, Ed. B. Brown, who is now president of the Lexington and Southern railroad, and Angell Matthewson, president of Matthewson & Co.'s bank at Parsons, were in this county in the interest of the latter road. Their instructions were to avoid Winfield and proceed directly to Arkansas City. This was done. A meeting ws held in that town, and seventy-five thousand dollars of township bonds promised the road from the south tier of townships.

Here you have certain facts, what are the conclusions? It is evident that Gould intends pushing his system of roads west, so as to share with the Santa Fe the rich traffic of the mineral regions. Next, he wants to be as close to the Territory line as posible, so that when it is opened he can go south from any point. It will also give him a larger scope of unoccupied

territory.

Our last conclusion is that both these roads are going to be built, and Winfield will not get either, no matter what amount of bonds we may promise. We can go ahead with our meetings and do "our level best," but "the eyes of the animal is sot."

[PERSONALS.]

Winfield now wants a canal.

Blakeney will be in his new quarters next Saturday.

The soldiers are gone, and our city is without protection.

One of Lieut. Wood's soldiers received his discharge in this city on the 16th, having served five years in the regular army.

The Kansas City Journal says the Arkansas river is frozen over as far south as Little Rock, and navigation to Wichita is closed.

Mr. Frank Wood has rented the Woodyard property in the southeast part of town, and will occupy the same henceforth as a residence.

Bliss & Wood, of Winfield, proprietors of the City mills, are tired of trusting solely to water, and are putting in a 100-horsepower engine.

The Methodist folks of this city now have an orchestra in connection with their Sabbath school--Will Griffith, leader, playing the cornet, with Mrs. Baker as organist.

A Miss Hughes, who has a room on Summit street, attempted suicide last Monday night by taking laudanum. She was unsuccessful, however, and at this writing still lives.

A pair of mules hitched to a wagon ran away last Wednesday afternoon in the southeast part of town. The wagon was demolished, but the team fortunately was uninjured.

Mr. F. D. Russell, the gentlemanly agent of the St. Louis & San Francisco railroad, made us a pleasant call last week, and reports a thriving business for the Frisco line.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 19, 1881.]

Mr. Wismeyer, the efficient clerk at Osage Agency, spent a day in town last week.

AUCTION SALE. On Saturday next, January 22, there will be a sale of several household goods at the residence of M. Rexford in this city. All desiring bargains in this line will do well to be on hand.

Mr. A. W. Patterson proposes trying the mineral regions of New Mexico, and offers all his household goods for sale in this issue. The furniture is mostly new, and those wishing anything in this line should call on "Pat."

AD: AT PRIVATE SALE.

I will sell at private sale all my household goods, consisting of parlor, bedroom, and kitchen furniture, tables, dishes, etc., all of which were new last spring, and is in good condition now. A. W. PATTERSON.

Our new Judge, E. S. Torrance, donned the judicial ermine on Tuesday of last week, and, says the Wichita Eagle, sat down before the bar and jury to listen to the testimony of a witness in his first case, being a suit for damages.

Capt. C. M. Scott, of Arkansas City, has been secured by the Commonwealth to act as that paper's reporter in the House. It would have been difficult to have made a better selection, for Captain is an old newspaper man, and one that is careful and correct in all that he does. Monitor.

Mr. R. B. Scott, one of Bolton's most thrifty citizens, called upon us last week, and registered his name on our books for the coming year. R. B. knows a good thing when he sees it, and thinks truly that a live home paper is the best regular visitor that a home can have.

Quite an undercurrent of feeling with reference to the public school at this place has been making itself felt for some time past. A number of our citizens are under the impression that the school is not up to so high a standard as they could wish, claiming--and truly--that, with the fine school building, salaries paid, and number of teachers employed, something more than an average district school should result.

In this view we entirely concur, and while we would like to see our school as good as any, if not the best in the county, the fact must not be lost sight of that the proper steps to grade the school, and thus raise it above an ordinary school, have not been taken. However much we may desire improvement and a high grade of studies, as the matter now stands we have just the school we are entitled to. That the late Professor, Mr. Sylvester, maintained a higher standard, was entirely due to the interest he felt in the work, and a like course pursued by the present incumbent would give universal satisfaction and redound to his advantage, yet we cannot legally claim anything more than we now have--an average district school.

We would suggest that the necessary steps be taken to grade our school in due form without delay, thus enabling our school board to demand a grade of studies that will benefit more advanced students and be more in accordance with other educational facilities afforded by the district.

As was generally conceded a week prior to the election, the bonds for the water power carried by a large majority--153 to 34, we believe. Those who were opposed to the scheme were loud in their denunciation, but did little else than utter their protest by voting against it. The council met last Monday night and put the finishing touch to the election by canvassing the votes. Proceedings are at a standstill, however, until it is ascertained beyond a doubt that the building of this canal is practicable. It is claimed that on Dr. Reed's place northwest of town, after some ten feet of "gumbo," a bed of sand six feet deep exists, which would necessitate a vast amount of mason work being done, or compel more "puddling" than is desired. Mr. Hill is now engaged in prospecting, and as soon as the facts in the case are ascertained, our readers shall be informed of them.

Editor Traveler: In the alley just east of the Central Avenue hotel, which is a thoroughfare for those residing in the northeast portion of the city, and also for the school children, are two dead pigs left to the action of the elements. If in the course of human events the present cold weather should give place to our old-time Italian zephyrs, the offal condition of these defunct porcines, when mortification shall have set in, is anything but cheerful to contemplate. Without touching upon the eminent taste displayed in throwing these pigs in this place, or upon the particularly gratifying spectacle they present to passersby, I would suggest to the unfortunate possessor thereof that he could cover himself all over with glory by simply removing this inaminate pork to "some boundless contiguity of shade" and covering it all over with dirt. Respectfully, READER.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 19, 1881.]

The great march into Oklahoma has not only come to a decided halt, but the columns of the sturdy boomers are fast breaking to pieces, and one by one they are returning to their homes. In consequence of this the military situation has been changed. Co. G, 4th cavalry, Lieut. Wood commanding, left this city last Saturday morning for the Oklahoma country and Fort Reno; Co. H, 4th cavalry, Lieut. Mason commanding, has left Caldwell for Reno, while Co. F, 4th cavalry, Lieut. Martin, will be stationed at some point on the road for a short time.

Last night about 9 o'clock the home of W. C. Carruthers in Winfield was the scene of a terrible event. C. C. Harris and Joe O'Hare were visiting at the house, and they and the girls heard screams from the dining room. They rushed to the door, and a living mass of flames burst into the room and ran screaming through the parlor and into the bedroom. It was the colored servant girl, who had set fire to herself from the stove. After reaching the bedroom, she jumped on the bed, but before any relief could be given her, she jumped up and ran through the rooms into the kitchen, and jumped into a tub of water. By this time Mr. and Mrs. Carruthers, who had gone to bed, came rushing to the scene. Mrs. Carruthers commenced tearing the clothes from the poor girl, and she and her husband pressed her into the water and extinguished the flames. Judge McDonald, from his residence on the opposite side of the street, heard the screams, saw the flames, and reached the unfortunate girl about the same time that Mrs. Carruthers did, and gave what assistance was possible. Dr. Davis was called, and he says the girl was literally roasted alive and will die from her injuries. The rooms were set fire to in several places, but the flames were extinguished without serious damage. The authorities took the case in hand, and have removed the girl to the poorhouse, which is best under the circumstances. Her name is Ann Garr, and she is of large and strong build. She came here last summer with a party of "exodusters." Her present sufferings are frightful, and death will be a relief. Monitor.

BIRTH. The residence of O. F. Godfrey was surreptitiously entered on January 14, 1881. Considerable excitement prevailed for the time, but the burglar was eventually captured and handed over to Mrs. Godfrey for safe keeping. Our information says the little rascal weighed nine pounds and two ounces, and if looks count for anything, he's slightly related to his captors. Of course, we don't know for certain, but O. F. had an awful give-away smile on his face when we saw him last.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 19, 1881.]

Messrs. R. A. Houghton & Co. have sold out their meat market on the west side of Summit street to T. W. Park & Co., who will conduct the same in the future. The present proprietors will run the same in style, and aim to keep on hand everything pertaining to the business of a first-class meat market. See their card on the first page of this issue.

CARD: STAR MEAT MARKET.

West Summit Street, Arkansas City.

Has always on hand a supply of first class beef, mutton, pork, fish, and chickens.

Hides, pelts, and wool purchased.

Cash paid for hogs.

T. W. PARK & CO.

CANAL. In our last issue we stated that Mr. Williams claimed that a canal answering all the purposes claimed for the one proposed could be built for $4,000. This was an error on our part, $20,000 having been the amount named by him. It was a case of misunderstanding with us, and we take pleasure in thus setting Mr. Williams right.

Quite a distressing accident happened to Mr. A. Davis last Saturday. While unloading freight his foot slipped, and he fell, breaking his leg square off. He was carried to his home, the fractured limb removed, and by night, thanks to the skill of the attendant carpenter, he was around as spry as ever.

Brooks has moved his "Star" livery stable just across the street, in the old Walker stable, where those wishing teams may find him.

["MARK WELL" REPORTS FROM TOPEKA CAPITAL.]

TOPEKA, January 22, 1881.

Editor Traveler: This legislature, like those preceding it, is the ablest gathering of law-makers Kansas ever had. There is no question but there are more leading men in the present legislature than were ever seen in Kansas before. There are probably more members of the 3rd House who want to be clerk of some committee, third assistant doorkeeper, or to get a legislative, judicial, or congressional district in such a shape as to elect their man next time, than ever before. I refer to visiting statesmen. Of course, members of the House and Senate are not thinking of anything of that kind.

Prentiss, with his usual amount of wit, is here, corresponding for the Atchison Champion.

Wirt W. Walton is the banner chief clerk of all chief clerks of all Houses of Representatives of all the States in the Union.

The committees have all been announced, and the legislature has commenced work in earnest. Five temperance bills have been introduced in the House and three in the Senate. Some are for fines and imprisonment, another for imprisonment alone, and one or two for establishing a State constabulary, or smelling committee, with large discretionary powers to prosecute for violation of temperance regulations.

There are now five railroad bills and resolutions on the calendar, and the general feeling of the members of both Houses appear to be that some kind of railroad legislation ought to be passed, but just what kind is the serious question.

Up to date, 250 bills and 23 resolutions have been introduced in the House, and about 200 in the Senate.

Capt. Scott of your city, is reporting for the Commonwealth, and I understand his services are in demand. He is said to be the best reporter in either of the two Houses here this year. If any of your readers come up and want to get acquainted, by all means call on Capt. Scott, for he knows everybody and everything in Topeka.

J. E. Conklin, of Monitor fame, is here today.

MARK WELL.

[PERSONALS.]

Coal is in good demand--or would be if there were any in town.

Miss Nellie Jones, of Emporia, is visiting Mrs. Newman of this city.

Our friend, Joe Sherburne, graced the streets with his presence yesterday.

Blakeney & Snyder are now in their new quarters, two doors north of the Green Front.

We are informed that the surveyors are now at work on the proposed line of the Gould railroad from Parsons to this city.

Mr. R. J. Turner, of Pleasant Valley, an old-time friend, called upon us last Monday.

[MORE PERSONALS: TRAVELER, JANUARY 26, 1881.]

Don't forget that the election for township officers, and to vote for or against the sale of our railroad stock, will be held the same day--Tuesday, February 1, 1881.

R. J. Maxwell, otherwise "Bob" of the Central drug store, was down sick last week, but is now around again in good shape, and we hope may long so continue.

Mr. Peter Wykoff has resigned his position as head of the industrial school at Pawnee Agency, which he has held for the past fourteen months, and with his wife and son is now boarding at the City hotel in this city. They are genial, whole-souled people, are well pleased with this country, and we trust may conclude to remain with us.

There will be a meeting at the schoolhouse in this city tomorrow evening, January 27, for the purpose of organizing a debating and literary society. The question for debate will be "Resolved, That the complete triumph of the temperance cause must depend on moral rather than legal suasion." All who are interested in such an organization are requested to be present.

O. PHELPS,

C. L. SWARTS,

CHAS. HUTCHINS,

D. E. ANDERSON.

A team belonging to William Randall meandered down Summit street at their own sweet will one day last week, but, with the usual perverseness of such matters, was stopped before doing any damage.

A petition was being circulated yesterday, the object being the refunding of a part of the bonded indebtedness of this township--the bonds issued for the first Arkansas river bridge, which will expire in 1