CR.12 - PAGE 1.

THE WINFIELD COURIER.

[EDITORIAL ITEMS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.

SILVER QUESTION.

The editorials which appear in the COURIER relative to the silver question are simply the personal dissents and holds views similar to those expressed by Hon. Schuyler Colfax in the article we give in another column, headed "On Finance." Editors, as well as politicians and financiers, have been exciting themselves in wrestling with this question, and we have almost unintentionally joined in it. As no one seems to know anything about it, we shall not claim to understand it.

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ON FINANCE.

1. This is in theory, and should be in practice, "a government of the people, for the people, by the people," where popular will should be obeyed.

2. If today gold and silver were both equal legal tender, as when we incurred our war debt and suspended specie payments temporarily, a proposition, as a preliminary to resumption in 1879, to now demonetize silver and pay all debts, public and private, in gold alone, could not carry the popular vote of any district in the nation, north, east, south, and west, and if submitted to a popular vote would be voted down by millions.

3. No canvass was ever made in any district of the nation prior to the act of 1873, for the demonetizing of silver--no popular assemblage or convention of the people, of any party, ever asked for it; no political platform of any organization demanded it; no petitions from the people of any section of the Union sought it--and of the hundreds of financial plans for the relief of the country, for the payment of the debt, or for coin resumption, which were published and advocated, none of them proposed such an act for the amelioration of our financial ills; not one.

4. The demonetizing act, therefore, was passed, not at all as responsive to any demand or desire, or petition of the people; and was so ingeniously concealed in the coinage act that neither the president who signed it, nor the present president who has to execute it if not repealed, knew what had been done till long after it had gone into effect.

5. If this is really "a government of the people, and for the people, and by the people," an act thus passed, though it may have legal effect is a popular wrong that should be corrected by the servants of the people promptly and cheerffully, not hesitatingly or grudgingly, or reluctantly, or evasively.

6. If the explicit language of our national constitution means anything, gold and silver are equally the constitutional coin of our land.

7. If the explicit language of the first act of Gen. Grant's administration, "the act to strengthen the public credit," and which did strengthen it with our creditors and the world, means anything, the nation pledged itself in March, 1869, to pay its debts "in coin or its equivalent," not in gold alone.

8. If the explicit language of the funding act of June, 1870, means anything, the nation again pledged itself to pay the bonds funded under it in "the standard coin of that date," which was gold and silver, and not gold alone.

9. If in 1801, 1859, and 1880, corn and oats were both and equally legal tender for debts, "between man and man," as the phrase is, no consideration of equity, honor, or conscience would require that debts incurred under and in full view of such a promise, should be paid in the dearer of these products, because the other happened to be cheaper from over-production or any other cause whatever.

10. If the demonetizing act was a popular wrong--if it was neither demanded, desired, nor petitioned for by the people--if it could not now, were a new and original proposition before the people, who ought to be the rulers of the land, command even a quarter of their votes--ought it not be corrected promptly? And then when the status quo is thus restored, would it not be excellent time afterward to propose an international commission of European and American nations to determine what should hereafter be the relation of the two coins to each other?

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[MORE EDITORIAL ITEMS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.]

LEGAL TENDER.

The Emporia News quotes Chap. 39, page 712, U. S. Revised Statutes Sec. 3,586:

"The gold coin of the United States shall be a legal tender at their nominal value for any amount not exceeding five dollars in any one payment."

And says: "It seems that the demonetizing of the silver dollar was not completed until the passage of the revised statutes in 1874. The act of 1873 dropped it from the coinage, but it still remained a legal tender. In 1874, however, it was deprived of the legal tender quality except in sums of $5. . . ."

The Revised Statutes were ordered by congress to be simply a codification of the mass of ill-arranged laws then in existence, and the revision was not to create any new or destroy any existing statutes. Ex-Treasurer Boutwell was the manager of the work of revision, and . . . without the knowledge of congress or of the country, altered the coinage law so as to demonetize silver, and yet Mr. Boutwell is as "honorable a man" as any of the eminent and influential gentlemen who advocate gold as a legal measure and standard of all values. If this way, however, of demonetizing silver, is not the most brazen faced kind of fraud, we would like to know what term would correctly describe it."

Now we are surprised to see the News make such statements. Others have made similar statements, especially democratic sheets, but we always expect that they are going too lie about every leading republican and everything that has been done by any republican or by the republican party, but we did not expect to see such trash in the News.

It has constantly been charged against the republican party; that in 1873 when the republicans had the president and a majority in both houses of congress, silver coin was demonetized by act of congress, in a mean, sneaking way, without discussion, publicity, or previous notice. The charge of the News against Boutwell does not relieve the republican party, but does great injustice to Boutwell.

If, as the News says, the revised statutes do not repeal the old, but were intended as simply a codification or condensation, the effect of the above section, 3,586, would simply make any silver coins of the United States, which were not so before, a legal tender for as much as five dollars, but would not effect such coins as were already a legal tender for that amount or more. The fact is as stated by the Republican quoted above. Neither did the act of 1873 nor the passage of the revised statutes of 1874 demonetize any silver coin.

Gold coin then became the only legal tender in existence for sums greater than $5. No law compelled the coinage of silver dollars and their coinage, when only used as bullion, was discontinued as a useless expense. Yet we got along very well with only one metal as legal tender. Gold circulated freely throughout the country, the people had it instead of the brokers and speculators, and were certainly very well satisfied with it.

The charge that the law of 1873 was passed sneakingly, or hurriedly, or quietly, has not the slightest foundation in fact. On the contrary, it was first introduced in the senate (containing the clause which withdrew the authority to coin silver dollars) as early as April, 1870, when it was ordered printed and referred to the finance committee, which committee finally reported it back and recommended its passage.

The session adjourned without further action, and on Jan. 9th, 1871, it was called in accordance with a previous notice, and discussed for two days by Sumner, Bayard, Morrill, Williams, and a dozen more pro and con and finally passed the senate, 36 ayes to 14 nays, Jan. 12th. On the 16th it was presented to the house by Hon. W. D. Kelly, now leading greenbacker and silver bill man, ordered printed, and referred to the committee on coinage of which Kelly was chairman, who reported back the bill Feb. 25th with an amendment when it was again printed and re-submitted. Mr. Kelly again introduced the bill March 9th in the next congress, when it was again ordered printed and referred to the committee on coinage. Jan. 9, 1872, Mr. Kelly again reported back the bill and recommended its passage. It was then read and discussed at length by Kelly, Maynard, Dawes, Garfield, and many others. It was again discussed Jan. 10th, Feb. 9th and 13th, April 9th and May 27th, when it passed, 110 ayes to 13 nays. The bill then went back to the senate, and was there discussed, ordered printed, and referred May 29th, and reported back Dec. 16th, and, after a full discussion, finally passed Jan. 16, 1873. The bill then went to the house for concurrence in a senate amendment, was agreed to, and had the president's signature Feb. 12, 1873, having been before congress and the country, with the anti-coinage of silver dollars clause in it all the time and frequently commented upon and discussed, for almost three years.

It certainly was not hurried, and did have a sufficient publicity and deliberate consideration. Besides it was supported by a large majority of the democrats of both houses as well as republicans. If it was wrong, both parties are responsible.

We do not feel particularly anxious to clear the republican party of the responsibility, for we have an idea that there was nothing very bad about it, and do not believe anyone else would ever have thought it wrong, either in principle or in policy, had the democrats, greenbackers, and soreheads found anything better to howl over, against the republican party.

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[NEWS NOTES.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

Four mines at Deadwood were recently sold for $450,000.

Sitting Bull is reported on Rock Creek and committing some depredations.

The United States produced 360,000,000 bushels of wheat in 1877, of which 110,000,000 can be spared for export.

The Indians attacked a coach in Western Texas, killed two drivers and another man, and captured the stage horses.

Delegate Corlette, of Wyoming Territory, opposes the formation of the Black Hills country into a new territory, to be called Lincoln.

During the past six weeks the U. S. treasury has disbursed thirty millions in currency, mostly to the army, and twenty-three million in gold on interest on public debt.

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[STATE NEWS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

An election is called in Parsons to be held on the 29th inst., to vote bonds to the Parsons narrow gauge company as newly organized.

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[MORE EDITORIAL ITEMS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.]

The case of Ballou vs. Brake concerning land in the Grouse valley, about two or three miles below Lazette, which has been in our courts so long and has excited great interest, is finally determined by the supreme court. We give the syllabus:

James A. Brake vs. George W. Ballou.

Error from Cowley county.

REVERSED.

BY THE COURT. VALENTINE, J.

Under section 12, of an act of congress of July 15, 1870, certain lands on the Osage Diminished Reserve could be sold by the United States to actual settlers, and to actual settlers only; but the plaintiff, who was not an actual settler, procured the defendant to enter upon a certain 100 acre piece of said land, and purchase the same from the United States in his own name, as an actual settler, the plaintiff furnishing the purchase money and all other necessary means therefor. All this was done under a parol agreement between the parties that as soon as said purchase was completed the defendant should convey said land to the plaintiff, and the plaintiff in consideration therefor should "convey to the defendant eighty acres of good bottom land, with sufficient timber thereon to improve said eighty acres for farming purposes." After the defendant purchased said land, as aforesaid, the plaintiff offered to fulfill his part of said contract, but the defendant refused to convey to the plaintiff any portion of said land. The plaintiff then commenced this action to procure title to the same. Held, That, as said contract was a parol contract, concerning the purchase and conveyance of lands belonging to the United States, made in violation of the spirit of the laws of the United States, and in fraud thereof, it cannot be enforced specifically or otherwise by a court of equity; and taking said contract, together with all the facts of this case, no trust estate in said lands resulted therefrom in favor of the plaintiff which can be declared or enforced by any court of equity; and, therefore, held, that the plaintiff cannot recover in this action.

All the justices concurring.

A true copy.

Attest: A. HAMMATT,

[L. S.] Clerk Supreme Court.

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[THE BLACK HILLS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878 - SUPPLEMENT.

THE BLACK HILLS.

Actual Condition of the Mining Interests

in that Region.

A correspondent of the St. Paul Pioneer Press at Central City, D., writes as follows under date of December 13th.

"In a previous letter I wrote you times were hard in the Hills, and they are not improving as the winter advances. From good authority I learn there are about six hundred locations made in this district--that is, six hundred veins and deposits have been claimed, and of these about twenty are paying the balance being in course of development, or not developed at all. Some of the deposits are running about eighteen dollars per ton, in the mills, while some run as low as three and four dollars.

The Hidden Treasure is probably paying as well as any mine in the Hills, the average ore being $20 to the ton. The report of $4,000 or $5,000 to the ton arises wholly from picked specimens, but when put through the mill the average is not far from $18 to $20. The rush of mills into the Hills is unprecedent by any other mining camp in the country. One year ago today a ball pulverizer was all the machinery here crushing rock. Now there are nearly 900 stamps, or fifty mills running. Of course, I do not say these mills are all paying; some are not fully under way; others are working on low grade ore; others are tied up in litigation.

Outside of the well-defined veins, the gold is very irregularly disseminated through the rock, and in some cases, while on top it shows well, fifty feet in it shows nothing.

In well-defined veins, such as the Golden Terry (named after Gen. Terry of your city, and this is authentic, as I have the information from one of the locators of the mine); also the Homestake, the Old Abe, etc., the deeper in the tunnel is run or the shaft is sunk, the better the ore. These veins are usually more uniform in their gold bearing proclivities than the deposit formations.

In a word, what the reader wants to know is this.

That the general yield of the gold ore in the Black Hills, by a milling or commercial process, may be safely set down at from $15 to $20 to the ton, and this amount is only produced from about fifteen mines, while in mines now opening, or partially opened, the ore yields $3, $5, and $8 to the ton. New discoveries have been and are being made every week, but their value will be known only in development, and that can't be reached much before next spring.

Mining is like almost everything else in life--one, to make money, must have money to make it with, and then it is a struggle--a good deal of a lottery--a sort of luck. But, when once underway, it pays well even at $18 to the ton. No very great recent discoveries in silver have been made, except by myself. This is a chlontic ore, with horn silver (milling), and goes about $300 to the ton--about $40 gold. The vein is about a foot wide; down in shaft thirty feet deep. When down fifty feet more it will, no doubt, prove a rich mine.

The Bear Butte district is but little developed, although it is considered very rich, but being a smelting ore, requires more money for machinery, and hence capitalists jump over that district and come to Central, where the gold is more easily extracted.

Coal of excellent quality has been discovered about thirty miles from Central, near Redwater, and a California company have agreed to build a narrow gauge railroad from Central to the mines. A company of sixteen hold about four miles of this coal deposit, and in another year this fuel will be used in nearly all our mills.

Petroleum has been discovered forty miles southwest of Central, and new discoveries of gold-bearing quartz have been made at a place called Elk Creek. In fact, when the many hills that look down on us are thoroughly prospected, we shall then know the real wealth of this country.

Another season capital will turn its attention more particularly to the development of mines than the purchase and erection of mills, of which there is an all sufficient number for the amount of good paying ore on the dump of veins whose real values have not yet been demonstrated. "All is not gold that glitters," is as applicable here as elsewhere, and my advice is, to those coming to the hills, come to meet and grapple with facts rather than the rosy hues of vivid imagination. It is no fun living in the hills; it is a stern reality, and he who expects to come here and get rich on "chin music," or by folding his hands, has mistaken his calling. It is work with the brain--work with the hands and the limbs--fight for your rights--live on one meal a day--sleep on nothing--run the risk of losing your life very occasionally, and finally, perhaps, "strike it big."

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[FASHION NOTES.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878 - SUPPLEMENT.

FASHION NOTES.

Russian laces are coming in favor.

Circle cloaks are growing in favor.

Point lace mittens are worn by brides.

Knife-blade pleating is as popular as ever.

The dress all in one piece grows in popularity.

Bonnets of every imaginable material are seen at present.

Bonnets of kid and velvet are considered the most stylish.

Undressed black Swedish gloves are very popular for demi-toilet.

The most fashionable fur stoles are black, white, or silver fox furs.

Fur linings and fur borderings are having a decided run at present.

The sale of decorated candles and cards for Christmas presents are enormous.

The fashionable fur for the neck this winter is the fur stole bordered with lace.

Embossed and Jacquard woven velvets are destined to have only a temporary reign.

Many ladies of fastidious tastes reject the variegated jet trimmings and embroideries.

The gypsy ring with the jewel embedded in gold is the engagement ring of the moment.

Outside facings appear on many of the handsomest cloaks where a quiet effect is aimed at.

Circulars of South Shetland seal and of Sicillienne, lined with sable, cost from $700 to $800.

Box-pleated flounces of medium depth appear on the front breadths of the latest Paris dresses.

Decorated candles cost from fifty cents apiece up to $30 a pair, according to size, length, and decoration.

Bows of ribbons, with the ends finished with tassels of various kinds, are seen on nearly all dressy costumes.

Fringes, gimps, passementeries, and other dress trimmings are gorgeous with variegated jet beads this season.

Deep collars of lace, with broad cuffs to match, and intended to be worn outside of the sleeve, are coming in vogue.

Narrow satin ribbon of various colors, and shaded from dark to pale tints, are used at the moment for trimming lingerie.

Gentlemen's dress coats, waistcoats, and overcoats are all worn longer than they have been for several years past.

Sleeves are no longer trimmed at the wrist, broad cuffs of linen or lace, or embroidered cambric having come into such general use.

Lace-trimmed lingerie in the form of fichus and chemisettes for very young girls, is a Paris-fashion destined to become very popular in New York.

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[PERSONALS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.

'Squire Gamel, of Harvey, was a New Year's visitor.

Mr. Tell Walton, of Oxford, called on us last week.

Frank Starwalt spent New Year's day in Winfield.

Tom Bryan was the busiest man in Winfield up to the 20th ult.

We will send the COURIER and "St. Nicholas" one year for $4.25.

O. P. Darst, of Dexter, was looking around New Year's day.

Mr. Wiley, the worthy Postmaster of Dexter, was in the city this week.

Mr. Wm. Carter called to see us on New Year's day.

Mr. Lucius Walton, of Pleasant Valley, gve Winfield a New Year's call.

Mr. James Fitzgerald and sister, Miss Kate, were in our city Saturday last.

MARRIED. Tom J. Johnston has returned from the East with a better half, just as we suspected.

J. T. Tarbet, of Rock, was in on Monday to see the liveliest city in Southwestern Kansas.

Theodore Dillow, of Beaver township, had his leg broken a short time ago racing a horse.

M. H. Markcum, one of the best teachers of the county, made us a pleasant New Year's call.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.]

E. A. Millard, who teaches the Tisdale school, is one of the most efficient teachers of the county.

Frank Gallotti is pushing his new residence with vigor. It will be one of the neatest in the city.

H. C. Loomis, of Winfield, subscribes for the best periodicals in the country, not excepting the COURIER.

Mr. Samuel H. Myton and his Honor, Judge Gans, counted the bonds in the county treasury last Monday.

Mr. E. Shriver, of Sheridan, was in town New Year's day and made us a call. He is in the cattle business rather extensively.

A. B. Taylor, the teacher in district 21, called around on New Year's day. He is one of the wide awake young men and does good work.

We neglected to state that Treasurer Bryan, during the campaign which closed on the 20th ult., was assisted in his arduous labors by Will H. Holloway.

Be on your guard against thieves and burglars. The indications are that several have arrived in this vicinity and will doubtless commence operations at once.

The Arkansas City Traveler says that the new minister to England, John C. Welsh, is a brother-in-law to Mrs. E. P. Wright and an uncle to Mrs. James Benedict and Mrs. E. B. Kager, all of that place.

A. H. Green is the boss real estate man of Southern Kansas. He is doing a magnificent work in scattering broadcast all over the United States his description of Cowley county, and of the advantages of buying farms and locating in this county. We happened to notice the mail he sent out on Tuesday morning. It consisted of about two bushels of matter addressed to almost everybody that would be likely to influence immigrants and real estate buyers. His postage for that single day must have been fifteen dollars orr more, and this was only one of the many days in which he has mailed such advertising matter. The people of this county who have property for sale owe it to A. H. Green to give him a very liberal patronage in the real estate business. When a man will spend his time and money freely for the good of his county, the least that its citizens should do to second his efforts is to put their business into his hands.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.]

MARRIED.

MARRIED. FRANKLIN - SCOTT. At the residence of Mr. Rex, Winfield, January 1st, 1878, by Rev. N. L. Rigby, Mr. Jesse C. Franklin and Miss Ella E. Scott. Both of Winfield.

This is "turning over a new leaf" to begin the year in the right way. We wish the happy couple many happy "New Years."

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A Big Fish Story.

The Arkansas City Traveler is responsible for the following: Jas. Bartlett, John Carr, Wm. Riggs, Benjamin Riggs, and Drury Logan, of Sumner County, went to the Chikaskia river last week with a seine thirty feet long and fifteen feet wide. They set the seine across the river and drew it up in an hour or so with a good number of fish in it. They set it again, and went above some distance and came down in the water, slashing about and driving the fish into the net. When they attempted to raise the seine again, it was so heavy with fish they could not raise it, and they began grabbing them and throwing them out. When the seine was pulled out, they counted 1,062 fish, weighing from two to forty pounds, and averaging four pounds each. They seined but a short time, and returned to the state with six thousand pounds of fish, which they retailed to buyers all over Sumner and Cowley counties. It will be remembered that fishing in the Chikaskia was not known of until within the past few years, and fish have accumulated until the water is almost black with them. The story of these men catching so many seems a little incredible, yet any of them are willing to make affidavit to the statement.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.]

Grand Reception.

The grandest reception ever in Winfield was given by Rev. Mr. Rusbridge and wife on New Years in the lecture room of the

M. E. church. Being in close proximity with their house, the food could be transported to the tables boiling hot. Before the quadrupeds and bipeds were mutilated by the carving knife, the tables, which were laid for about seventy-five, presented the handsomest appearance, decorated, as they were, with glistening silver.

We could not, if we tried, give the exact bill of fare, but will make a slight attempt: Turkey and cranberry sauce, roast pig, roast beef, boiled ham, all kinds of vegetables, great variety of cake, plum pudding, tea and coffee, candies, nuts, etc., ending up with a friendly chat and some fine music.

Mr. and Mrs. Rusbridge well understand the secret of entertaining a large company, and all expressed themselves as having passed a few hours most agreeably.

A GUEST.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "LYCURGUS" - TISDALE ITEMS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.

Tisdale Items.

As your readers are aware, our town is a suburban place, situated on the west bank of Silver creek, and that as items are not frequently found in your columns from here, I hope to be allowed space for a few scrawls.

Real estate is changing hands rapidly in this vicinity, Dr. Wright having bought A. S. Morse's farm south of town; Mr. Sellers, late from Illinois, now owns the S. S. Moore eight east of town, and has just finished a tasty little residence and moved his family home; Mr. _____ has the eighty known as "The Vacant Beauty," lying a mile north of town, where he and his family are now residing; Mr. A. B. Tanner sold his farm south of town, and now "poor Arb" has no home but the blacksmith shop, where he can (n)ever be found pounding away on the "red hot metal" of which we read so much.

J. A. McGuire is now selling his entire stock of goods at cost--fifty percent added for freight. John intends to retire or stock anew in the spring if resumption is not forced.

Our notary public, S. S. Moore, is here yet regaling the "boys" with songs and Black Hill adventures; also games of checkers. Sim is a lively fellow, and there is no lack of fun when he is found.

Our new druggist, D. W. Lytle, M. D., has moved his drugstore opposite Mr. McGuire's store, where he is doing a driving trade.

The Tisdale lyceum is in full blast, but, owing to the "blasted" weather we have been having for the last two Fridays, we have not been able to decide whether "Specie Resumption" shall continue as an act or be repealed.

Christmas passed with the old traditional tree and Santa Claus. The tree was well supplied with presents for the little folks; but, owing to the dense crowd and old Santa's lack of variety, everyone went home tired and cross.

The Tisdale school, under the teaching of E. A. Millard, is going steadily on. The enrollment of fifty-six pupils, not a few of whom never attended school before, make business lively. Among the best scholars we notice Miss Rosa Rounds, Mr. Abe Conrad, Mr. Geo. Wright, and Chas. Hodges.

Like Sam Weller, I might end with a "warse" about the "Snow, the beautiful snow," etc., but I won't.

Jan. 1, 1878. LYCURGUS.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "LINKS AND PINS" - BEAVER TOWNSHIP ITEMS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.

Beaver Township Items.

Wheat, both early and late, never looked better.

Corn is turning out well.

Little Dick thinks he will soon outweigh Big Dick.

Thomasville wants a new schoolhouse.

Strangers in abundance.

Why don't somebody get married?

The young man that got the mitten via the Christmas tree is in a quandary. Don't know who sent it, but will preserve the mitten as a memento of the "beautiful days" when he did shine around among the blondes.

Our little vale is putting on a new dress slowly but surely. New buildings are going up all around.

More Hoosiers in the spring.

The Christmas tree at Easterly schoolhouse would have been an entire success had the room been larger. A building of some description for public meetings is much needed.

Some of our young "alecs" are too smart entirely. Look out, boys, your parents will be informed of your inwardness.

LINKS AND PINS.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "O." - RED BUD ITEMS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.

Red Bud Items.

MARRIED. Married, in Burton county, Missouri, November 19th, Mr. Ed. Busch, of Maple township, to Miss Mary E. Watson, formerly of this county.

BIRTH. Born to Mr. and Mrs. A. M. Whipple, on Wednesday, December 12th, a daughter.

BIRTH. Born to Mr. and Mrs. O. G. Ross, on Wednesday, December 5th, a son.

Wheat growing rapidly and looking splendid; expect to commence harvest 10th of April next if this weather continues.

Red Bud, Kansas, Dec. 28, 1877. O.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.]

A Card.

ROCK, COWLEY COUNTY, KANSAS, December 23, 1877.

MR. EDITOR: Dear Sir: I desire to tender my thanks through the columns of your paper to the kind people of Rock and vicinity for their tokens of love. "Love to our Pastor" was the motto on the trestle-board, last Friday night, which was fully expressed in the liberal donations of the kind people of that place, in the amount of twenty two dollars in cash, besides other tokens. Owing to the inclemency of the weather, there were provisions in great abundance carried away. We also acknowledge our gratitude to Miss Mattie Minnihan, George H. and J. F. Williams for their musical entertainment during the evening.

G. W. HARRISON,

Pastor on Douglas circuit.

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Public Installation.

Winfield Lodge, No. 479, Knights of Honor, will have a public installation of officers at the Courthouse on Friday evening, January 4th, 1878. After the installation ceremonies, Rev. J. L. Rusbridge will deliver an address upon the origin, growth, and objects of the order. The public are cordially invited.

GEO. W. ROBINSON, Reporter.

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List of letters remaining unclaimed in the Post Office at Winfield, Cowley county, Kansas, on the 1st day of Jan., 1878.

FIRST COLUMN:

Atter, Mrs. Libbie; Austin, C. D.; Areanum, T. B.;

Baily, Silas; Baum, Greil; Bennett, Marcus; Beebee, G. B.;

Bell, H. H.; Boline, Mr.; Boylan, John; Brown, G. N.;

Brolhert, Hiram; Brown, Mrs. E. J.; Burden, Esley;

Burch, A. J.; Butler, John R.; Carley, Mary Ann; Campbell, Ed.;

Cain, Lizzie; Cook, Geo. L.; Calloserer, ____; Cooper, Chas.;

Crain, Issac; Crockett, John O.; Dawley, F. A.; Davis, Amanda;

Dinning, J. W.; Dunn, J. E.; Eads, Geo.; Ellis, Clifton C.;

Ege, A. G.; Fisher, Lyman; Fuller, M. E.; Gates, Hiram;

Garrett, Ames; Gates, Hannah; Gitman, Delia; Geer, L. H.;

Geer, Joseph; Graham, Eliza A.; Hart, J. C.; Hanson, John;

Hopkins, Hester; Holman, Oliver; Hill. W. A.

SECOND COLUMN:

Herndon, John F.; Johnson, J. L.; Johnson, B. C.;

Jones, Rosa; Jones, Mary; Jones, Wm.; Johnson, Lydia J.;

Kimball, Isaac; Lacy, Wm. F. M.; Edne, Elizabeth; Lewis, Wm.;

Lewis, J. D.; Lloyd, Hannah; Loundy, W. H.; Marsh, S. F.;

Miller, Makepeace; Mears, James; Miller, Katie B.;

Moffit, Emma; Miller, Geo. W.; Miller, Catherine B.;

Moreland, Jas. C.; Moore, C. P.; Noyes, G. W.;

Northway, B. F.; Owings, Wm.; Peck, Andrew; Reynolds, _____;

Retherford, Wm.; Riggs, Benjamin; Roberson, L. M.;

Robinson, Warren; Therwood, C. E.; Shells, H. A.; Smith, Robert;

Smith, Miss Willie; Steel, Isaac; Savan, John; Waters, John;

White, Benjamin; Willson, Leah; Williams, John T.;

Wilson, John; Wright, Wm.

Persons calling for any of the above will please say "advertised."

JAMES KELLY, P. M.

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[SOME ADS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.

Notice.

All persons indebted to the undersigned firm are requested to call and settle at once and thereby save further trouble and costs. We cannot wait for our money longer than Christmas. We must have a settlement either by cash or note. We mean business.

MATER, MILLER & CO.

---

Job Work and roofing made a specialty at Weston & Hyskell's.

---

Notice to Sunday Schools.

McCommon & Harter will supply you with the Sunday School Times, Scholars' Quarterly, and Weekly lesson leaves; also have on hand a large assortment of bibles, testaments, and psalms.

McCOMMON & HARTER,

Opposite the post office.

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[MORE NOTICES: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878.]

I. O. O. F.

Notice is hereby given that Winfield Lodge, No. 101,

At the Courthouse.

E. S. BEDILION, Secretary.

---

BIG BARGAINS

In Boots and shoes at

W. C. ROOT & CO.'s.

---

Boyer & Wallis are selling overcoats at bed rock prices.

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[OUR NEIGHBORS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878 - BACK PAGE.

OUR NEIGHBORS.

Wm. Carter, of Belle Plaine, and a party of nine neighbors, returned last Saturday from the buffalo range with about eight thousand pounds of beef. They killed thirty-three buffalo, had a pleasant hunt, and returned after an absence of nearly four weeks, healthy and invigorated. They found their game in the panhandle of Texas, two hundred and fifty miles southwest.

Mr. McCampbell, of Sedgwick county, was in town last week, and reported that he had struck coal at the depth of 335 feet. Owing to the escape of gas, he was unable to determine the thickness of the vein, but so confident is he of there being paying "dirt," that he contracted with Mr. Palmer, of this city, for hard lumber from which to construct his apparatus to hoist the coal. The shaft is but fourteen miles from our city and will be of immense advantage to us if no coal should be found in our county.

Mickey Jim, the driver of the El Paso and southern stage, was a short distance north of the first named place, last Wednesday evening, confronted by a masked highwayman. Whatever the robber's intentions, all hostile demonstrations suddenly waned before the prospects of a determined resistance upon the part of the guardian of Uncle Sam's mail pouches, who goes armed to the teeth, and who would like no better fun than hauling to the post office an extra male and, even if he had to defunct him before bagging.

One of the hardest worked men in this country is Rev.

A. H. Walter, P. E. He has charge of the Methodist churches of Sedgwick, Butler, Cowley, Sumner, Harvey, Chase, and Kingman counties. During the summer and fall he has traveled, in his own conveyance, nearly four thousand miles, and preached from four to six sermons each week, conducting also from one to two quarterly meetings, and administering the sacrament each week, besides transacting the usual business pertaining to these quarterly meetings. Few men could stand the pressure of such a mental and physical task, and bear up as does the gentleman named, who maintains his vigor and enthusiasm to a wonderful degree in spite of all. The churches of the district are fortunate in the ministrations and untiring work of so talented and persevering a Presiding Elder as Rev. A. H. Walter.

Last Wednesday evening as the El Paso stage was passing a point half way between this city [Wichita] and El Paso, the driver noticed a large spotted dog with a black head standing near the road. The driver called the attention of the passengers to the animal and they requested that the stage should be stopped upon getting up to the spot. The stage stopped and Charley Allen, of St. Louis, got out, pistol in hand, and when he got near enough the animal started down a ravine, and immediately after a man sprang from a depression and started off in the same direction as the dog. Suspicion was aroused that the individual was concealed there for the purpose of highway robbery. It was about the locality of the robberies of last week, and the successful result of his operations has, perhaps, encouraged him to repeat his rascality. More than ordinary vigilance should be used to see that this thing is nipped in the bud. Success of one will encourage others in the same endeavors, and in a short time our roads will be dangerous to travel after night. We would advise all to go prepared for these knights of the road. The dog is described as a very large animal, peculiar in his appearance, with black spots on his sides and black head. Who owns such a dog? Find the dog and spot the master--on his head.

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[FORESTS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 3, 1878 - BACK PAGE.

The Work of Desolation.

Within ten years, no less than 12,000,000 acres of forest have been cut down or burned over in the United States. Much of the timber is used for fuel, twenty-five cities being on record as consuming from 5,000 to 10,000 acres each. Fences use up much timber, and railway sleepers require the product of 150,000 acres per annum. The amount of pine and hemlock timber yet standing in the forests of the timber states is estimated at 225,000,000,000 feet. The sum of $144,000,000,000 is invested in the timber industry, employing 200,000 men.

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[WAR ALONG THE RIO GRANDE.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878 - FRONT PAGE.

A member of Congress has received a letter from an army officer who states the case at length. We epitomize his views as follows.

1. The people of Texas and a few army officers are doing all in their power to stir up a war between the two Republics.

2. Lawlessness along the Rio Grande is by no means confined to the Mexicans.

3. Raids into Mexico from Texas are not unfrequent.

4. The Mexicans in the towns along the Rio Grade are more peaceable, industrious, and honest than their neighbors, the Texans, on this side of the river.

5. Most of the war talk is in the interest of speculators.

6. The militia are a band of freebooters and lawless adventurers. Their use by the Government is a shame.

7. Some of the army officers now here are doing all they can to provoke a war.

8. There are not enough of the Government troops here.

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[EDITORIAL ITEMS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

A GOOD SHOWING.

The population of Cowley is greater than that of any other county in Kansas, west of a line drawn north and south through Topeka. Taking the school population as a basis, and counting three inhabitants for each person of school age, we had in this county on the 31st of July last 14,040 people. Today we have probably sixteen thousand inhabitants. We have distanced Lyon and Sedgwick counties with their important cities and Butler with her aspiring candidate for fame, and Mr. Eaglenewsandtimes may put this fact "into his pipe and smoke it." As shown by the reports of county superintendents, on the 31st of last July, Cowley had 236 more school children than Butler, 750 more than Lyon, and 868 more than Sedgwick county. Our increase in school population during the last school year was 1,189, this being the greatest increase shown by any county in the state. Sedgwick county comes next with an increase of 1,055. The fourth on the list is Sumner, with an increase of 932, and the sixth, Butler, with a gain of 715. Is not this a right good showing for the four leading counties of the "Great Southwest?" Cowley takes her place at the head of the great quartette, and "still we have no railroad."

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[ANOTHER EDITORIAL ITEM: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.]

THE SILVER QUESTION.

N. C. C. claims that the bondholders bought their bonds of the government, paying in greenbacks at par, worth all the way down to 38 cents gold on the dollar. In this he is mistaken. The bondholders, scattered all over this country and Europe, are largely persons of moderate means, who have invested their small savings in these bonds at rates from par up to twenty percent premium in gold coin or its equivalent in greenbacks, and have done this under the belief that they would be paid principal and interest in gold coin.

It is true that many are paid by national banks as security for their circulation, and some are held as an investment by capitalists, but it is not probable that many are in the hands of the original purchasers, who bought them as brokers to retail out to their customers. Even they have largely paid for them in gold coin.

But this has nothing to do with the question. The only thing to consider is what has the government, by its acts taken in connection with all the surrounding circumstances, given the bondholders reason to expect in payment. A great nation like this cannot afford to play baby and resort to a dodge or subterfuge in order to avoid a portion of its liabilities.

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[LONG COMMUNICATION FROM "N. C. C." RE LEGAL TENDER.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

COMMUNICATED.

WINFIELD, Jan. 8, 1878.

I read the article, "Legal Tender," in the last number of the COURIER with a good deal of interest. It contains much valuable information upon the question you discuss.

He who has attempted to trace the course of legislation upon financial matters in the "Congressional Record," the "Statutes at Large," and the ponderous "Pub. Docs.," which a too generous government inflicts upon its citizens, will appreciate the service you have rendered your subscribers. But I am not satisfied with the conclusions of that article from some of its propositions.

I must entirely dissent; and I have been induced to hope that you will give place to a few observations concerning them.

The proposition is to remonetize silver; that is, to make it a legal tender again, to make it "money once more," to restore it to the place it once held in the coinage of this country.

Greenbacks have so long been the currency--the money of the people--that this has hitherto been of little practical importance. Probably there are many who have but lately learned that the "dollar of the daddies" has been demonetized and degraded.

The question of a uniform standard of value as opposed to a double or bi-metallic standard is one that has been deeply studied by many of the ablest men of the financial world, men not in political life and animated by a sincere desire to see it settled upon sound principles. The lamentable difference of opinion among these men is enough to warn a bolder man than I from the discussion even if this was a proper time and place. But certainly it is a fair, and truthful statement to say, that this doctrine of a uniform standard is a new philosophy.

Silver has been used in all ages of the world by every nation emerged from barbarism, as money, and in every nation it has been the money of the people. I am aware that one nation (England) adopted the gold standard in the first half of this century, and another (Germany) a few years since. But at best it is an experiment. Germany is now going through a period of great depression, which is by many attributed to that measure. It is denied that England has been materially benefited by her single gold standard. Be that as it may, the experience of England is no sufficient guide for us. The English are a commercial people, they have been fitly named a nation of shop-keepers. It was argued there that if England wished to maintain her commercial supremacy she must furnish the standard to measure the commodities of the world; and so her pound sterling is the world's money, it serves all the purpose of an international coinage.

The commercial interests of this country are great, but they are not the interests of first importance. The majority of the people of this country are agricultural people. They cannot be ignored. It were better for the advocates of the gold standard to use arguments rather than denunciation, for upon them devolves the onus of establishing this new doctrine, which (it may be said) is against the practice of every nation in every age.

If it be objected that silver has long been demonetized by reason of the failure of the government to coin it, it may be answered that this was because during nearly the whole of that period the silver dollar was of greater value than the gold dollar. It was little accounted as money, not because it was worthless as such, but because it could not be had; and more, it is within the memory of men now in middle life that before the war the people were accustomed to supply the place of the legal tender silver dollar by ten and twenty dollar rolls of the base half and quarter dollars, which were, by law, legal tenders to the amount of five dollars only. And it may be said, too, that the true question is not whether we may not do very well with gold alone, but whether we may not do much better with silver in addition. Finally even admitting the sound reasoning of the gold advocates, it seems that a more favorable time could be selected for repudiating that which has always been regarded as one of the prime resources of nations.

Now that the country and political sub-division of the country are burdened with enormous debt, it is no time to wither this great nerve of a nation's strength. But aside from the abstract and complex principles of the science of finance, there are other things that we, as a people living under a constitution, must consider. Great lawyers and statesmen have defined the power of congress to demonetize silver. They have claimed that it is made a legal tender--or, in other words, money--by the constitution of the United States; that it is vested with attributes which that body cannot take away. That instrument provides that "Congress shall coin money and regulate the value thereof," and it contains a prohibition that "no state shall make anything but gold and silver a legal tender." "Congress shall coin money." That is, it shall provide the physical agencies for the melting, the moulding, the stamping, and the milling.

"Congress shall coin money." What is money? With what peculiar attributes is the metal invested to make it money? It is not the purchasing power alone. Three cows may purchase one horse without any sanction of government whatever. The transaction depends entirely upon the will of the parties. Then it must be that attribute which makes the delivery of it a payment, that which enables a man to perform his legal obligations by a tender of it; in other words, a legal tender.

But congress is only authorized to coin money; therefore, when it coins any metal and undertakes to divest it of any of the attributes of money, it oversteps its constitutional authority. And, in fact, congress has never demonetized silver by positive law, as you have shown in your article. This was practically accomplished by a failure to coin it, and this refusal to coin was because it was found, by experience, to be impossible to retain it in circulation.

By the act of 1837 the silver dollar was declared to be

Everyone can understand the principles upon which these acts were passed, and all will admit that they were intended for the best interests of the whole country, even if congress did overstep its power in declaring what should be a legal tender as has been contended by some.

When the act of Feb. 12, 1873, was passed the facts upon which previous legislation had been based had ceased to exist, and unfortunately it may be said with too much show of truth that either ability or patriotism of former congresses had passed away with them. Those acts were passed in the interests of the whole people, this in the interest of a class. A few years after the passage of the act of 1853, the production of silver was wonderfully increased. The mines of Nevada and Mexico began to pour out their millions. When the attention of congress was turned to the subject a few years after the war, it was found that the old difficulty was no longer to be met. Silver could be found for sufficient coinage. To a devout mind it might seem the crowning mercy of our struggle for national life. The war was ended, but the way had been long and the burden heavy. The nation had been brought up out of the darkness of Egypt, but was weary and sore athirst, when in the mountains of the West was found the rock which needed but be struck and the waters of life would gush forth. But the congress of 1873 turned away from the offered blessing and bowed down before the golden God.

In your editorial you deny the charge that the act of 1873 was introduced in a clandestine manner and passed without due consideration, and you show from the journals the day the bill was introduced, the day it was referred to the committee, when it was debated, and in fact give a history of its progress through congress. But if I am correctly informed, the charge is not that time was not allowed for discussion, but it is that the objectional measure was concealed while pending before congress or, as Mr. Colfax says, it was so ingeniously smothered in the coinage act, that neither the president who signed it nor the present president knew what had been done until long after it had gone into effect.

A measure of vast importance in the country and one utterly at variance with the traditions and of the government was effected by simply omitting to provide for coining the standard silver dollar in an act ostensibly for reforming the coinage.

From the beginning of the government in 1873, the government authorized silver dollars to be coined even when there was no silver to coin; but in that year, when there were millions awaiting the mint, congress withdrew the authority to coin it. No man proposed to demonetize silver by express law, but this was accomplished by refusing to do that which the constitution says congress shall do, to-wit: Coin money.

I think, sir, from the failure of that congress to exercise the power of demonetization, and the attempt to obtain that result by indirection and concealment, from the refusal of the wisest and best statements of this country to exercise the disputed power, and from the words of the constitution, the advocates of silver are justified in saying that congress has not the power to demonetize that metal. And they are justified in determining that a measure so hurtful to the true interests of the country shall not be accomplished by refusal on the part of congress to perform a plain constitutional duty.

I had purposed to refer at some length to that clause in the constitution which prohibits the states from making anything but gold and silver a legal tender. It is hardly necessary here, and in view of the growing length of this letter, I must refrain.

It has been deduced from that clause, and from the general scope of the instrument, that congress has no power to declare what shall be a legal tender; a question nearly related, but at the same time quite independent of the one we have considered, viz.: the power of congress to declare that the silver coin shall not be a legal tender.

But it is the proposition to pay the bonds of the U. S. in silver dollars that has excited the most feeling and provoked the sharpest criticism. The slaveocracy of the South was haughtily impatient of opposition and resented contradiction as insult. This bondocracy have manifested a similar spirit. Like all men in the enjoyment of peculiar privileges protected by law, they have come to think that the chief end of the law is the protection of those privileges and should be law which the exegencies of their service require.

The history of the bondholders in the service of this country is nneither long nor difficult. During the dark days of the civil war, they bought U. S. bonds at enormous discount, sometimes not paying more than $880 for a bond of $1,000. They furnished the means to carry on the war. They staked their money on the fate of the nation. The nation won and so did the bondholders. They had speculated on the necessities of the country and events proved that they had made a bargain immensely profitable.

There seems to be great ignorance as to the full measure of their profits. They bought the bonds of the United States with the legal tender notes (greenbacks) when that currency was greatly depreciated by the disasters of the war. When the greenback dollar was worth but fifty cents in gold, when it was worth but thirty-eight cents, they bought bonds of the United States to the amount of millions, and the government received the greenbacks at par value. For one thousand dollars in greenbacks, at that time "worth in the market" but five hundred dollars, often but four hunded, and sometimes even less, the government gave its bond for one thousand dollars, nor did their good fortune cease with the war. As their investment depended on the preservation of the nation's life, so their security was said to be bound up with the preservation of the nation's honor.

By the act of March 18, 1864, the faith of the nation was solemnly pledged to the payment in coin, at their full face value, of those very bonds which had been bought, with greenbacks worth but fifty cents, or 38 cents in coin. By this act the bondholders received doubly treble the amount they had invested in addition to the heavy interest already received and to be received.

Many of these bonds were called in by the act of July 12, 1870, entitled "an act to refund the national debt," and others issued, which were made payable in "coin of the then present standard value."

By the act of Jan. 12, 1875, entitled "an act to provide for the resumption of specie payments," still other bonds were issued, which were required to be of the same description, as the bonds issued under the act of 1870. It is then upon the construction to be given to that act that the decision of the question between the bondholders and their opponents must depend, and the question turns upon one word, the meaning to be given to the word "coin." If we were to ask any citizen of this country, not a congressman or bondholder, the meaning of that word, he would tell us that a coin was a gold or silver piece of money. If we could refer the question to the great statesmen of by-gone days, they would tell us that a coin was a piece of gold or silver, stamped by the authority of government.

But the bond-holders say that the word does not mean both gold and silver pieces, but gold only, and insist that the bonds must be paid in gold.

The constitution requires that congress shall coin silver; by law existing at the time the act of 1870 was passed, the silver dollar was declared to be a coin of the United States. The word had a fixed and definite meaning, beyond cavil, when they accepted the provisions of that act. If their rights are to be determined by that plain rule of law and of common sense, to which men in the common currents of life are compelled to submit--the rule that the rights of parties to a contracct are to rest on the words of the contract--then the bonds are payble in gold or silver at the option of the government. But they claim an exemption from that rule. It is said that while the silver dollar was a coin of the United States, in 1870. Yet in that act it was intended to apply the word to gold alone.

An ordinary man will think and perhaps say, "If you meant gold, why didn't you say so?" There is an inherent improbability in the assertion that the able lawyers in congress and the shrewd businessmen of the financial world fail in the exercise of that ordinary circumspection necessary to the drawing of a chattel mortgage. And it appears that the very same congress that passed the act of 1870, just one year before, in the "act to strengthen the public credit," declared that both gold and silver pieces of the United States were coin.

That act declares that the interest-bearing obligations of the United States should be paid in coin save where the law under which any of said obligations were issued provided that they might be paid in coinage or other money than gold and silver.

An inspection of the wording of that act is all that is necessary to perceive that "gold and silver" are included, and both taken together are equivalent to the word coin.

There is nothing in the history of the bondholders to lead us to believe that they were willing, and in fact, bound themselves to receive the least valuable dollar. It is true that but few silver dollars were in circulation, but the law authorized their coinage, and these men intended and were entitled to receive as many of them as they could get.

But an unforseen event occurred. The production of silver bullion became wonderfully increased in this country, and demonetization in Germany caused an influx of the metal here. Silver became less valuable than gold. For the first time in history, after a wonderful run of good luck, the bond-holder met with a stroke of ill fortune and now the declines to receive the silver dollar for his bond, and is crying for protection against those "repudiationists" who want to pay him in silver, or, as he says, 92 cents on the dollar. He only paid from 38 to 59 cents. There is a distinction attempted to be taken in favor of the bonds issued under the "act for the resumption of specie payments," passed in 1875. Then the silver dollar had been dropped from the coinage. It is impossible to pursue that subject now; but let it be remembered that these bonds were required to be of the same description as the bonds of 1870.

That the act of 1873 dropping the silver dollar was passed secretly and silently; that congress had no power to demonetize silver; that the act seeking to reach that end by indirection, was the purpose of avoiding the very question with which the country is now engaged; and we must conclude that even if by the letter of the law the bonds of 1875 are payable in gold (which I think may be denied), yet the act of 1873, which made them so, was a fraud upon the country which should be repudiated.

But there are others who take a higher ground. They say that the United States owes it to the fair name of our country to answer the demands of its creditors and pay their demands in gold. This is a matter of sentiment which everyone must determine for himself. But I must own it appears to me a most preposterous thing. This country need not beg for recognition. It has dealt more honestly with its creditors than any government that history can show. Their profits have been enormous and without parallel.

Law, justice, and a decent self-respect will hold them to what is "nominated in the bond."

N. C. C.

[NOTE: I BELIEVE "N. C. C." IS ATTORNEY N. C. COLDWELL, SON OF C. COLDWELL, AND A PARTNER WITH HIS FATHER IN THE FIRM "C. COLDWELL & SON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW, LATELY ARRIVED FROM TEXAS TO WINFIELD....INTRIGUING!]

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[MONTHLY AGRICULTURAL REPORT.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

MONTHLY AGRICULTURAL REPORT.

The COURIER has often referred to, and published extracts from, the monthly reports of Hon. Alfred Gray, the worthy secretary of our state board of agriculture. His last report, advance sheets of which we have received, contains much valuable information in regard to the state. We give as much of it as our space will permit.

The following table shows the number of acres of cultivated land in the state at different times.

YEAR. NO. ACRES IN CULTIVATION.

1860 405,468

1870 1,971,003

1874 2,669,769

1875 4,740,000

1876 5,035,697

1877 5,595,304

It will be noticed that our development has been rapid and continued, and that from March 1876 to 1877, the dates of assessors' reports, more than half a million acres of wild land were brought into cultivation.

The next table shows the average yield and cash value per acre, and the price per bushel, gallon, pound, or ton of farm products, for the year 1877.

THIS REPORT GAVE CROP; AVERAGE YIELD PER ACRE, AVERAGE PRICE PER BUSHEL, LB., GALLON, OR TON; AND AVERAGE VALUE PER ACRE.

Too hard to set up.....only giving wheat and corn!

Winter wheat, bushel

Average yield per acre: $12.60

Average price per bushel: .89

Average value per acre: 11.27

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Corn, bushel

Average yield per acre: $40.38

Average price per bushel: .20

Average value per acre: 7.88

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The value of the agricultural productions of the state for the year 1877 is given as $45,597,051, or nearly one hundred dollars for each inhabitant of the state.

Next table [which I skipped] showed the number of acres and amount of each of our principal farm crops for 1877.

The value of the wheat crop for 1877 is put at more than nine and a half million dollars, spring wheat at two and a half million, and corn at more than twenty million dollars.

SKIPPED THE REST!

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[COAL HOLES.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

COAL HOLES.

CHRISTMAS, 1877.

There is no coal in the "Eldorado coal hole."

Meekly yours,

T. B. MURDOCK.

FOR SALE. A COAL HOLE. A large, first-class coal hole is now offered for sale near the thriving town of Eldorado. It can be had very cheap. For further particulars call on, or address Dr. Allen White, or T. Higginbotham Murdock, Esq. Parties from Winfield need not apply. If they do they will get h_____l knocked out of them in short order. We are authorized to say that the Emporia coal hole is withdrawn from the market until the above is sold. The Walnut Valley Times will please copy three times and send bill to the proprietors of the "East and West" railroad.

Emporia News.

We insert the above advertisement to assist friend Stotler in making the sale, but expect him to pay the COURIER out of the proceeds.

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[STATE ITEMS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

STATE.

During the past year Mr. Welch, superintendent of insurance, has collected from the insurance companies doing business in Kansas, and paid into the state treasury $13,248.42. The surplus, after paying the expenses of the office for the year, is $7,656.11, one-half of which goes to the school and the other half to the general fund.

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[NEWS NOTES.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

NEWS NOTES.

Colorado produced during 1877 $7,879,432 in gold and silver.

In Mexico recently a convoy conveying $30,000 in silver was robbed.

The coinage for the month of December was $335,360 gold, and $2,007,723 silver.

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[PERSONALS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

Mrs. Millington returned on last Friday from her long visit to Topeka.

The south bridge is rapidly approaching completion. It will be ready for use in a few days.

Mrs. William Matthews and family, of Harvey, were calling on Winfield friends on the 2nd inst.

Nine weddings for the first week in the year is a good promise of future greatness for Cowley.

C. A. Bliss' mill has ground about 75,000 bu. of wheat and 35,000 bushels of corn during the past year.

William Fritch and Tommy McGraw, the gallant sargeant of Vicksburg, were in from Lazette last week. Will got a permit from Judge Gans to commit hari-kari.

Darwin Eastman, from Iowa, yesterday bought the Lance farm, on Posey creek, for $1,300. Mr. Eastman is a substantial man and will be an acquisition to this county.

Grouse Creek turned loose on Winfield, Monday last, Lillburn Smith, James Lee, Robert Armstrong, Mr. Parks, Dr. Chapman, 'Squire John Clover, and His Honorr, R. F. Burden, being among the number.

Bliss & Co. have been rolling out the goods in large quantities. Their store is one of the most popular places in town, where customers are safe to find low prices, polite attention, and almost every kind of goods wanted.

Harter Brothers & Co. have a large stock of goods, do a heavy business, and give their customers entire satisfaction.

The prospects for a large crop of fall wheat were never better at this time of the year than they now are. Nearly eighty thousand acres were sown in this county, most of it in good season. It was well rooted before winter set in, and the ground is now covered with a beautiful green carpet.

Mr. C. G. Buss, father of Mr. Henry Buss, of Ninnescah township, has bought the Richards farm, near Ninnescah, for $2,000. He also bought a farm from Mr. E. S. Torrance, of this city. He says there are seven or eight families in his neighborhood, in Illinois, who will settle in this county in the spring.

COLDWELL AND SON appear in our columns with a professional card. This is one of the strongest law firms in the Southwest. Judge Coldwell is a gentleman of ripe experience and his legal ability has been recognized by a position on the supreme court of a neighboring state. [THEY DID NOT MENTION IT WAS TEXAS.] The junior partner is a young lawyer who will make his mark.

Messrs. Hackney & McDonald opened their law office in this city June 27th, 1876. Their gross receipts for professional services rendered from that time until the first of this month amounted to $8,075.31, when, on balancing their books, it was found that the difference between them was but $3.69. We call this a good business showing for eighteen months, and an even race for the fees.

Curns & Manser have their real estate office arranged in new and splendid style. They have a bank counter, safe, maps, abstract books, and everything to make a first-class office. They have been expending considerable sums in circulating information about our county and city, and are energetic and reliable. Those who want to buy or sell real estate will do well to give them a call.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.]

MARRIAGE LICENSES GRANTED.

Marriage licenses granted by His Honor Judge Gans during the past week:

Allen Drummond to Florence A. Prater.

Henry C. Barr to Ruth Ann Read.

Jesse C. Franklin to Ella E. Scott.

Dan'l. Boomershine to Ann B. Shroup.

Isaac H. Taylor to Susan H. Dow.

Solomon Mooney to Lucy Stanton.

Joel M. Rivers to Rose Herr.

Joseph E. Harland to M. H. Shaughnessey.

William H. Fritch to Emma A. Rouster.

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There was a public installation of officers of the Knights of Honor at the Courthouse last Friday evening. Rev. J. L. Rusbridge delivered an address. The officers of the organization for 1878 are as follows: Past Dictator, A. E. Baird; Dictator, E. P. Kinne; Vice Dictator, Geo. W. Robinson; Assistant Dictator, J. L. Rusbridge; Chaplain, S. H. Myton; Guide, John W. Curns; Reporter, H. D. Gans; Financial Reporter, A. Howland; Treasurer,

W. C. Robinson; Guar., H. Brotherton; Sent'l., J. F. Snyder.

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The present board of county commissioners have been in regular session this week for the last time, and in reviewing their proceedings for the past year we are impressed with the good judgment they have displayed in the disposition of a great variety of difficult cases, and their general efficiency in conducting the business of the county. We do not believe there is a county in the state that has been better served by its board of county commissioners. Mr. White retires with the approval and confidence of the people, while Messrs. Burden and Sleeth, together with Mr. G. L. Gale, will constitute the board for the ensuing term, which gives the assurance that the affairs of the county will be equally well managed for two years to come.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.]

Council Proceedings.

The city council met in regular session Monday evening last and acted upon several small bills against the city.

The report of the treasurer was received and referred to the finance committee, which report shows a balance remaining in the treasury of over $500 on the first day of January.

Among other things discussed was the necessity of enforcing ordinance number 68, providing for the construction of sidewalks on Main street, and the feasibility of passing an ordinance to compel persons keeping hogs within the city limits to put floors in their pens, and to provide for removing rubbish from the alleys.

This is an important matter, as the spring and summer months will soon be here. The health and welfare of our citizens demand that such laws should be enacted and enforced.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "L." - POLO.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

POLO ITEMS.

MR. EDITOR: Thinking you would like to hear from Richland, I send you some items.

On Christmas eve, at the Summit schoolhouse, we had a Christmas tree with over two hundred presents on it, addressed to intended recipients. The house was packed full of the best natured people you ever saw. The exercises opened with singing, followed by declamation and more music, all good, when the real fun commenced. Some of the presents were very beautiful, some comical. T. R. Carson got a pair of striped calico pants; our much esteemed and jolly neighbor, S. D. Groom, got a tin trumpet and a tin horse and buggy; Charley Groom got the champion stick of candy, and everything passed off very pleasantly. S. D. Groom is proud of his presents, and makes much merriment with his trumpet music.

T. R. Carson is up at the head of Dutch hunting antelope.

A protracted meeting, conducted by Elders Thomas and Daniels, has been in progress at the Richland schoolhouse since December 26th.

The herd law was discussed at Floral Grange on Friday evening, December 28th.

L.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM SHERIDAN.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

SHERIDAN NOTES.

Large flocks of sheep are coming into the east part of this county.

There are many good claims to be had in the east part of Cowley county, much better than any to be had further west.

A great many newcomers are arriving in Sheridan township.

We would advise stockmen to look in the eastern part of this county for stock farms.

E. Shriver has a splendid farm, bottom land, at the mouth of Turkey on Grouse creek, which he would sell. His herd of Texas and domestic cattle are doing well.

R. B. Overman is doing excellent work this winter, teaching the school in district number 47.

D. Tyrrell has the finest crop of wheat out. He farms on the Michigan plan.

John Rarick, from Kankakee, Illinois, will move upon the Hamilton farm. He is a substantial man with a fine family.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "L." - RICHLAND.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

FROM RICHLAND.

The protracted meeting is still in progress at the Richland schoolhouse, conducted by Elder Thomas, Baptist, and M. Daniels, Free Methodist. Surely this is an age of progress when these two sects unite in a revival. So it should be. There is a good attendance and lively interest.

DIED. The youngest child of Calvin and Henrietta Sterns died New Year's eve, and has been buried at Floral cemetery. The bereaved parents have the deep sympathy of this community.

DIED. ?? One half of the children in this neighborhood under one year old have died within the last six months.

The neck-tie festival at Summit, New Year's eve, realized $13.50, which goes to pay for a fine Rigby lamp for the schoolhouse. The young folks had a good time. L.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.]

DEXTER, KANSAS. Jan. 7, 1878.

ED. COURIER: The following is the report of the Dexter school for the first quarter ending December 21, 1877:

Enrolled during the quarter, males: 41

Enrolled during the quarter, females: 35

Total: 76

Average daily attendance, males: 26.

Average daily attendance, females: 25.5

Skipped the average percent for the following:

Deportment, Reading, Penmanship, Arithmetic, Grammar, Geography, English Composition.

T. H. ALEY, Teacher.

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Winfield, Kansas, January 5, 1877.

EDITOR COURIER: At a meeting of the citizens of district No. 37 the following resolutions were passed.

Resolved, That we are in favor of making silver a legal tender for all debts, public or private.

Resolved, That our senators and representatives in congress deserve our thanks for the support of the principle expressed in the above resolution.

Resolved, That silver as well as gold is money in the constitutions, and it is the duty of congress to provide for its coinage and to regulate its value.

Resolved, That we are sorry to see some of the leaders of the republican party dessert the cherished principle of protection to home industry, more especially those residing in the East annd who ought to know its benefits, having had ample protection for their products for the last seventeen years.

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be furnished each of the Winfield papers, with a request that they publish the same, and that a copy be furnished each of our senators and representatives in congress.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "I. GUESS" - CEDAR TOWNSHIP.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

CEDAR ITEMS.

CEDAR TOWNSHIP, Jan. 1st, 1878.

EDITOR COURIER: I wish you and yours a happy new year. May your shadow never grow less. We are in mud and slush up to our ankles, the weather is so bad we can't get out to hunt any merry making, but like Mr. Micawber we are "waiting for something to turn up." We have been having a protracted meeting at the Beaver Creek schoolhouse, conducted by the Rev. Phillips. of the free Methodist church. He had something near ten at the anxious seat when the storm came on and chilled the whole business. Tonight D. W. Wiley has a hop and oysters. There is being more stone fence built this winter than there has been in this township for several years. Long may it continue. You will hear from me next week.

I GUESS.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "C." - RICHLAND.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

RICHLAND NOTES.

MR. EDITOR: In my last I mentioned the supper at Floral, the proceeds of which should furnish fruits for the Christmas tree. Well, that supper came off with a jolly good time. Misses Mollie and Mary sold a coon for about four dollars. The proceeds of the supper amounted to about twenty dollars. On Christmas night the tree bloomed in beauty and splendor. The schoolhouse was beautifully decorated and the hall oepned by a song from the choir, followed by declamations, songs, tableaux, and the lighting of the tree, when the little ones were made happy by the receipt of their presents. To Misses Hart and Pontious is due much praise for the complete success of the merry affair.

At the Phenix schoolhouse, Queen village, Christmas was celebrated by a tree and a neck-tie festival.

A protracted meeting was in progress at the Richland schoolhouse during holidays.

The holidays are now over and the "school marms" have returned to their work.

In my report of the officers of the grange, your compositor made L. B. Stone's name read S. B., and Miss Mary Pontious read Martha, incorrectly.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "GRAPE-VINE TELEGRAPH" - VERNON TOWNSHIP.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

VERNON TOWNSHIP HEARD FROM.

A NEW YEAR's DINNER. As the hour of twelve approached, a party of young people assembled at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Marsh Allen, and at about three o'clock, notwithstanding the diminutiveness of the dining-room, all were seated cosily around the table, which seemed to groan under its weight of turkey, pickles, pies, cakes, and fruits, prepared only as a good cook can do it. Never did a queen or king enjoy a repast more hugely. All regretted very much that the chief guest of the occasion was necessarily absent. With much reluctance the party retired at a late hour in the afternoon.

Many thanks are due to Miss Cinthia Simons, under whose auspices the guests were invited and the dinner arranged. Would be glad to hear from you again, Miss Cinthia, if you can find one who will make ready the fattened turkey, as Mrs. Allen did. Our hearts ejaculate, Oh! for a thousand tongues to speak our thanks to her.

Sorry did not get this for year last issue, in behalf the two couples from South street.

GRAPE-VINE TELEGRAPH.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM W. A. LEE.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

COMMUNICATED.

EDITOR COURIER: Some time prior to this I saw a card in your journal stating and showing the damaging effect on farmers of having their machinery out in the weather. You are right. I have stored under a shed, which cost me less than two dollars besides my labor, more than five hundred dollars worth of machinery. This is one grand source of the cause of machinery being a damage to farmers. There is too much snobbish talk about "the county being ruined with machinery" in the sense that men buy too much machinery. The trouble is that there is not discretion enough used in the purchase and care of implements.

Men must have machinery enough to cultivate their ground and harvest their grain. Thought given to the purchase of the implements most adapted to the purpose for which it is designed and shelter from sun and rain are the safeguards to the farmers in this respect. How many of us have known men to mortgage a good farm to get money to build a fine house and in a short time lose both house and farm when a house within their means would have saved their home.

Too many men get the same idea in regard to machinery. They must have a "big thing on ice," a self-binder or header to cut their grain with. We admit that they had a "big thing on ice," but far from being of the greatest utility to the farmer in harvesting his grain. For all purposes a Combined Reaper and Mower is undoubtedly the cheapest, lightest of draft, and most durable machinery that as yet has been put in the field.

In this part of the country, where hay making is indispensable, most farmers need a mower. Now if he buys a self-binder at a cost of $325, and a mower at a cost of $125, he is out $450, while for $175 he can get a combined mower and reaper that will do his harvesting, and the wheat will be in better shape for stacking. Taking all into consideration the loose binding of the self-binder, and down wheat run over by headers, there will be less loss of grain. One span of horses will take one of these light machines while two span will draw them all day without fagging, while I have seen six of the largest horses and mules tugging their life away pushing a big bungling header through the mud and not making much more than half the speed that two horses would walk off with a reaper.

During a rainy harvest a dropper can be run when no other machine can be kept up out of the mud. I, for one, have seen the perplexity of mind and worry of body of parties tinkering with self-binders. Farmers know the advantage of having a machine at a time like this (when they are driven to have more or less help) that they can begin cutting in the morning and drive until night with but few halts.

I have confined myself principally to the purchase of a reaper and hope to be able to say something on other topics in the future pertaining to the subject.

One more thought. The reason that commission men work so zealously for these high-priced machines is that they get double the commission on them of that of a combined machine.

Respectfully,

W. A. LEE.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.]

Installation I. O. O. F.

On last Saturday evening, the 5th inst., the installation of officers of the Winfield Lodge No. 101, I. O. O. F. for the year 1878 took place at the Presbyterian church. A considerable delegation of members of the order from Wichita and other places were present, including W. E. Ritchie, grand master; _____ Russell, grand treasurer; and W. P. Campbell, grand marshal.

The ceremonies were conducted in a pleasing and impressive manner. The officers installed were: R. Birnbaum, N. G.;

M. G. Troup, V. G.; J. W. Curns, R. W.; E. S. Bedilion, P. S.; Max Shoeb, T.

But the performance of the evening was the oragion delivered by His Honor Judge W. P. Campbell, grand marshal, who gave the most complete exposition of the history, aims, and operations of the order we ever heard or saw within the limits of an evening's lecture. It was a gem of rhetoric, combining finished oratory with terseness and vigor, alike creditable to the head and heart of the speaker.

After the ceremonies were over, a supper was served at the Williams House. Though we did ample justice to that supper at the time, our pencil is incapable of doing so now. It must suffice to say that it was got up in Frank Williams' best style, and this is the highest praise we know how to bestoy on any supper.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.]

TISDALE ITEMS.

J. A. McGuire is doing a good business in general merchandise.

John R. Smith means business. He is building a fine stone barn, and feeding large lots of hogs and Texas cattle.

Sim. S. Moore has gone into the real estate business at Tisdale. Call on him for stock farms.

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CEDAR TP., Jan. 7, 1878.

EDITOR COURIER: Here's your Cedar township itemizer again.

J. W. Searle is putting up a stone fence.

The Overman boys are building a stone fence.

Mrs. Elizabeth Wells is having 100 rods of stone fence built.

D. W. Wiley is going to Winfield to work at his trade (carpenter).

Fred Myers has about 200 head of cattle, which he is herding on the state line.

Robert Howe and Alex. Tolles are building 100 rods of stone fence for Donald Jay.

Searle is feeding about sixty head of cows. He intends to have them ready for the June market. He has rented his farm on Beaver creek to a Mr. Moore and moved on the state line where he could have more range.

John Ledly is trying the cattle business, but it don't pan-out very well for him. He has lost seventeen head by the black-leg.

You will hear from me next week.

I. GUESS.

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.]

KANSAS THE FIRST.

We are in receipt of a letter from Hon. Thomas Ryan, dated December 29, saying "Alfred Gray has been appointed one of the commissioners to the Paris exhibition, and has the honor of being the first commissioner selected by Mr. Evarts."

Mr. Gray owes his appointment to two things, first and mainly to the reputation he gained at Philadelphia as secretary of, and having in charge, the Kansas exhibition at the centennial. The ability exhibited at that time was brought to the attention of prominent men throughout the nation, and he has had since the close of the centennial a national reputation. This fact made his selection as a commissioner, when agreed upon by the delegation from his state, an easy task. But in the second place, Kansas has a warm friend in Mr. Evarts, the secretary of state. He exhibited that friendship when a young man, not worth, all told, $10,000. He gave to Kansas in his early struggles one-tenth of that amount. He has ever since manifested a sincere and practical friendship for this state. We are informed by those who know, that since he has been in the cabinet, he has let no occasion pass to say a word for Kansas. This he has done not only in his official acts, but unofficially, when an opportunity offered. It is probable that to this friendship is due the fact that the first commissioner to be named was a Kansas man. Kansas will not forget the friendship of Mr. Evarts, and should it ever be in her power will reciprocate. Commonwealth.

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[SOME ADS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 10, 1878.

One or two good, new houses for sale cheap. Apply to Jennings & Buckman.

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Girl Wanted.

Inquire at the Winfield Bank of J. C. Fuller.

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J. G. Dunscomb, opf Wichita, sells dry goods, groceries, boots and shoes at lower prices than can be found elsewhere.

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Lost.

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Job Work and roofing made a specialty at Weston & Hyskell's.

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[COMMONWEALTH-CAPITAL NOTES.]

WINFIELD COURIER, THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 1878 - FRONT PAGE.

COMMONWEALTH-CAPITAL NOTES.

PERMANENT SCHOOL FUND. The present commissioners, Messrs. Cavanaugh, Davis, and Lemmon, during the year 1877 purchased Kansas school district bonds to the amount of $124,540.22. This is more work that has been done by the commission in any one year. For all of these bonds they paid par and accrued interest, thereby saving to the various districts at least fifteen percent, as that was the price of bonds when they decided last January to pay par for all good bonds. The fund on hand still amounts to over $190,000.

SUPERINTENDENT. Mr. Lemmon, in conjunction with prominent educators of the state, is preparing a "course of study" to be used by the normal institutes held during the present year. The topic of "English language" will probably be be prepared by Hon. John A. Anderson; bookkeeping, by Prof. Felter; arithmetic, by Dr. Martin; physiology, by Professor Pomeroy; and other studies by masters of specialties.

SUPREME COURT.

Cases disposed of in 1875: 219.

Cases disposed of in 1876: 223.

Cases disposed of in 1877: 820.

Cases for hearing at January term, 1878: 252.

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[HOW THE TEXAS COWBOY LIVES.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878 - FRONT PAGE.

HOW THE TEXAS COWBOY LIVES.

A letter from San Antonio, Texas, to the New Orleans Democrat says: One of the distinctive features of western Texas is the cowboy, so-called.

Heretofore there have been but few enclosed pastures. The cattle and horses have ranged at will over the prairies, and when a norther prevails, they become widely scattered. When the spring of the year returns, then a dozen or more of the young men of a neighborhood mount their mustangs, taking each a spare horse, and scour the prairies for many miles, sometimes fifty or sixty in one direction. These excursions last about ten days or two weeks. They bivouac at night, cook their own meals, seldom enter a house, drink quantities of black coffee, generally without sugar, kill a yearling when they need meat, and are truly rough and ready riders.

This kind of life seems to have an inexpressible charm for the young men. It is an exciting scene to see them in full chase, with their lariats whirling over their heads, their mustangs as much excited by the race as themselves.

From this school comes the noted Texas ranger, and it would be hard to find a better training for a cavalry soldier. Their splendid qualities were exhibited on many hard-fought fields during our late unpleasantness.

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[ITEMS ON EDITORIAL PAGE.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878.

NOTE: THEY STATE AT TOP OF EDITORIAL PAGE "SIX PAGE EDITION."

BATTLE RECORDS.

Gen. Sherman has written a letter explaining that the names of the battles of the late civil war were not omitted this year from the army register because of a desire to conciliate, but because of the many errors in the records. He says the omission is only temporary, that Gen. Whipple is appointed to correct the records so that each regiment and company will be justly credited, and that when these corrections can be effected the correct lists of battles will appear in the register.

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The insane asylum at Osowatomie can take a few more patients. Do not all speak at once.

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Hon. H. W. Cook, of Wyandotte, died at the insane asylum, at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, on the 9th. Mr. Cook was well known in Kansas. He has visited Winfield more than once, and at one time made an able speech from the steps of the Lagonda. He came to Kansas in 1864 and has been ever since prominent as a lawyer and a politician. In 1876 he was a candidate for congress before the convention which nominated Mr. Haskell. The excitement over his canvass and defeat, together with sunstroke, brought on insanity. He was taken to Mount Pleasant and after awhile it was thought he had recovered. After he returned other excitements brought on the disease again and he was taken back to the asylum from which he is now released by death. He was an able, warm hearted, generous man, and had a host of friends in this state.

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[LETTERS OF INQUIRY RE COWLEY COUNTY AND WINFIELD.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

LETTERS OF INQUIRY.

We are constantly receiving letters from persons in various parts of the country, but mostly from Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and Iowa, making inquiries about the condition and prospects of this county and town. We have twenty-nine of these letters on hand, accumulated in little over a week, which we hve not yet answered for want of time, and now we undertake to answer them all in a batch and send each inquirer a paper containing this answer. We will print 100 extra, which others can get at five cents apiece to use in answering similar questions of their correspondents. These matters are a heavy tax on us, mostly in our time, but for the credit of the county should be answered.

OUR ANSWERS.

Cowley county is one of the Southern tier and from 100 to 134 miles west of the Missouri line. It is about 33 by 34 miles in extent. It is part valley or bottom land, but a larger part upland, which is rolling. It is well watered with clear streams, has a fair supply of good timber and plenty of excellent building stone. Its soil is equal to the best, both upland and bottom. It produces the best winter wheat, corn, and most of the other products, and all the fruits suitable to the climate.

In the eastern part of the county good claims may yet be taken and after six month's settlement, bought at $1.25 per acre. Unimproved entered lands can be bought at $2.50 to $6.00 per acre; improved farms from $4.00 to $20.00, according to amount of improvements and location. There is a good schoolhouse, with school, in almost every neighborhood in the county.

There are good churches in the principal towns. The Methodist are well represented.

Democrats vote as they please and are respected same as republicans. The county has about 15,000 inhabitants. There has never been any trouble from Indians and there is not the remotest danger. Buffaloes do not roam over this county any more. Men don't go armed with bowie-knives and revolvers and shoot each other for fun.

People are just as intelligent here as in your county, Mr. Ohio man, and read more and better newspapers.

Winfield has about 1,500 inhabitants. There are plenty of lawyers, but we suppose there may be a little room left "in the upper story." The medical profession is well represented.

Oh yes; reapers and harvesters are sold here, all kinds you can think of. About 500 were sold in Winfield the past year. Probably more will be sold the next. We suppose there are 80,000 acres of wheat sown, and it looks very promising.

Yes, three tinsmith establishments. There are two tailors here. Lots are worth from $40 up to $1,000. We have no railroad; expect a couple within a year. No coal of consequence has yet been discovered. Plenty of wells of good water at Winfield 20 feet deep. Perhaps a jeweler would do well, but we have four of them. Have three saloons; don't want any more. Guess a wholesale liquor store would not do well. Yes, marble works are wanted; come on. There are a great many hogs in the county yet, and we think it would pay to pack here. There are two good banks and another coming, but interest is high; come on with your money.

We believe the steamboat has not arrived; inquire of C. M. Scott, Arkansas City.

There is some land to rent near this city; probably not much. No homestead land in this county. Almost every kind of business is carried on here. Twenty lawyers here--an able bar. The lawyer H. inquires about is all right--efficient.

The future prospects of Winfield are very promising. We think C. could trade some good work horses for land. Land rents for one-third of the crop usually. Yes, we think a foundry would do well here; we have none.

Probably the Winfield schools will employ the present teachers some time; address John D. Pryor, clerk.

Think A. C. could find plenty of work here. Come on, and bring along your $6,000, your wife, boys and girls, and we guarantee you will readily find such a farm as you want.

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[COMMUNICATION FROM "H. C. M." - DEXTER.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

FROM DEXTER.

Dexter firms still change hands.

The firm of A. A. Wiley has changed to James Hardin, and I think Mr. Hardin will do a good, lively business.

Mr. Wiley has bought a farm near Dexter and will move on it in the spring. Mr. Wiley is a stock man and is not in his element unless he is handling cattle, hogs, and other livestock.

The Dexter boys had a grand side hunt on the 31st ult. One side made about 3,300 counts, the other about 1,800. You bet the boys got away with lots of rabbits and birds on that day.

The hotel here will change hands this week, some of the former inmates going to Colorado.

There are parties here to take hold of our mill and put it in operation, which has long been needed to save farmers from having to go 15 or 20 miles to mill.

Mr. and Mrs. Axley started for Winfield last Friday. Mrs. Axley on getting out of the wagon, broke her leg just above the ankle.

John Graham has sold his hogs.

Mrs. Williams started for Colorado last Tuesday. The hotel business is about busted at Dexter without her.

Ed. Hewings was in town Monday. There were 278 head of hogs weighed that day.

Plenty of stock hogs for sale in this neighborhood.

Dr. Wagner has gone into the dog business, for dogs have got so scarce there are none to shoot. Perhaps he will be successful. H. C. M.

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[OUR NEIGHBORS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

OUR NEIGHBORS.

Wellington is to have a cornet band. The instruments are purchased and on the way.

Ed. Higinbotham fell from an upstairs window of the Eagle block, Wichita, fracturing his jaw and mutilating his face.

Chautauqua county has got a new jail which will furnish secure lodgings for the numerous "shootists."

If you want to be murdered or robbed, just take a little trip down through Chautauqua county. They will do it up right for you. Courant-Ledger.

The Sumner county Press has a new head which looks very fine. It is also improved much in many other respects. Capt. Folks makes a lively county paper.

A GOOD MURPHY MOVEMENT. Mr. Murphy, of Oxford, has completed an excellent pontoon bridge across the Arkansas river at that place.

The Wichita coal hole is sunk 343 feet deep. McCampbell, the proprietor, met with a serious accident. In stopping the windlass to save persons in the shaft, his arm was terribly torn.

Mr. C. C. Shore claims the mammoth hog of Sumner county. It is a Poland China, and weighs about nine hundred pounds. His hogship measures six feet and ten inches around the girth.

Sumner Co. Democrat.

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Butler county is nothing without a sensation. Since the coal hole has fizzled they have found a cave and a long ways underground a vast hall adorned and illustrated with gorgeous stalactites and stalagmites which appears to have been a preglacid museum of enormous lizards and monstrous men with heads 27 inchees in diameter. The worst trouble is that you have to crawl about a quarter of a mile on your belly to where the show is. The veracity of Butler county discoverers must not be questioned.

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A man named Bacon has examined the Arkansas river from Little Rock to Newton, Kansas, and proposes for a bonus of a thousand dollars to run a steamboat to the latter place.

We would suggest to our friend of the Journal that he post himself in the geography of Kansas in the contemplation of a trip to Newton via steamer.

The Journal of Commerce is all right on geography. The twenty-five miles of prairie from Newton to the old sand bed, called the Arkansas river, is quite level and sandy, and we don't see why a steamboat could not navigate it as well as it could from Wichita down through the sand of that old river bed.

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[STATE NEWS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878 - EDITORIAL PAGE.

Charles H. Miller, U. S. marshal for Kansas, was sued by D. R. Anthony, of the Leavenworth Times, for libel in circulating a hand-bill denouncing him. The jury, after being out two hours, returned a verdict of "guilty" and assessed the damages at one dollar.

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[BIG NOTICE: McGUIRE & CRIPPEN - BANKRUPT.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878 - COURIER SUPPLEMENT.

BANKRUPT!

BANKRUPT! BANKRUPT!

Great Bankrupt Sale of the Goods of

M'GUIRE & CRIPPEN.

These goods MUST BE SOLD to satisfy creditors. Avail yourselves of this opportunity. Groceries, Boots and Shoes, Dry Goods, Queensware and Glassware, all at cost, or less than cost.

McGUIRE & CRIPPEN.

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[PERSONALS.]

WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878.

Mr. Bullock, of the Wichita Eagle, called on us Saturday.

Miss Kate Millington is visiting her friends in Wichita.

Rev. Mr. Platter will preach next Sunday morning on "Future Punishment."

Mr. Jarvis, late of the Cedarvale Blade, called on us last Saturday. He is looking well, and has got the vim in him to make a capital newspaper at any point where he may be offered good support.

MARRIED. At Milan, Erie county, Ohio, on Dec. 1st, 1877, by Darwin Fay, J. P., Mr. Henry N. Banner of Winfield, Cowley county, Kansas, to Mary L. Wood, of Milan, Ohio, formerly Mrs. Tucker, of Winfield, Kansas.

The COURIER office printed a long and ably written brief by E. S. Torrance, delivering it Monday morning of last week. On the following Wednesday that brief was read in the Supreme court at Topeka and won the cause. Moral: Get your briefs printed at the COURIER office.

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WINFIELD city is out of debt, has $500 in the city treasury, has an engine, engine-house, and hook and ladder implements, all procured within the last eighteen months; has expended much in that time on street and other improvements, and has not levied a cent of tax except a few special licenses.

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The COURIER will have two special attractions next week. One will be the highly complimented oration delivered by John D. Pryor at the installation of officers of the Masonic Chapter, and the other is an able article from R. H. Pratt on the care and feeding of horses. The edition of the paper will be six pages.

[NOTE: HAVE A HUNCH I WILL LOOK AT THESE ITEMS AND THEN

SKIP TYPING THEM UP! MAW.]

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[MORE PERSONALS: WINFIELD COURIER, JANUARY 17, 1878.]

Mrs. U. I. Axley, living two miles above Dexter, met with quite a serious accident on the road to Winfield on Friday the 11th inst. In getting out of the wagon about eight miles east of town, she made a misstep and fell, breaking her ankle. It was thought at first it was only a sprain, but on arriving in town, Dr. Mendenhall was consulted when it was found to be a very bad break.

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Colorado and Smith had a free fight last Monday. Colorado takes bad whiskey and then wants to fight almost everybody he meets. He imbibed many doses of the poison that day and followed Smith around all day to provoke a quarrel. Smith got poison, too, and as Marshal Stevens had his eye on them, they adjourned out of his jurisdiction, east of town, and "went in." Colorado got the worst of it until Smith's wife appeared on the ground and interfered. Constable Finch then appeared with Marshal Stevens, as a posse comitatus, march Colorado to the calaboose to sleep off his drunk, and Smith to the office of Justice ______, who permitted him to contribute a small sum for the benefit of the school fund.

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There was a certain man in Winfield and he played a joke upon the clerks in