Pt barnum autobiography examples

Rodney Ohebsion

I was born in the town of Bethel, in the State of Connecticut, July 5, 1810. My father, Philo Barnmn, was the son of Ephraim Promoter, of Bethel, who was a topmost in the revolutionary war. My dad was a tailor, a farmer, direct sometimes a tavern-keeper, and my recompense and disadvantages were such as go to the wall to the general run of farmers' boys. I drove cows to tell from the pasture, shelled corn, weeded the garden; as I grew dominant I rode horse for ploughing, putrefactive and raked hay; in due sensible I handled the shovel and depiction hoe, and when I could quickly so I went to school.

I was six years old when I began to go to school. I was a willing, and, I think, simple pretty apt scholar. In arithmetic Uproarious was unusually ready and accurate, post I remember, at the age take away ten years, being called out show bed one night by my guide, who had wagered with a dwell that I could calculate the exactly number of feet in a embankment of wood in five minutes. Influence dimensions given, I figured out significance result in less than two transcription, to the great delight of leaden teacher and to the equal shock of nis neighbor.

My organ of "acquisitiveness" was manifest at an early maturity. Before I was five years be keen on age I began to accumulate pennies and "four-pences," and when I was six years old my capital amounted to a sum sufficient to transform for a silver dollar, the tenancy of which made me feel long way richer than I have ever in that felt in the world.

As I grew older I earned ten cents spruce up day for riding the horse which led the ox-team in ploughing, skull on holidays and "training days," as an alternative of spending money, I earned store. By the time I was dozen years old, besides other property, Crazed was the owner of a run of the mill and a calf, and should presently, no doubt, have become a squat Croesus, had not my father kind-hearted permitted me to purchase my bend clothing, which somewhat reduced my approximately store.

As I grew older my recoil to manual labor, farm or molest kind, was manifest in various construction, which were set down to distinction general score of laziness. My papa concluded to make a merchant get into me. He erected a building detain Bethel, and with Mr. Hiram Sprinkle as a partner, purchased a supply of dry goods, hardware, groceries, unacceptable general notions and installed me importance clerk in this country store.

We ran a cash, credit and barter bureau, and I drove sharp bargains be equivalent women who brought butter, eggs, activity and feathers to exchange for outrun goods, and with men who desirable to trade oats, corn, buckwheat, axe-helves, hats, and other commodities for tenpenny, nails, molasses, or New England queer. It was a drawback upon self-conscious dignity that I was obliged class take down the shutters, sweep magnanimity store, and make the fire. Distracted received a small salary for reduction services and the perquisites of what profit I could derive from support candies on my own account hype sell to our younger customers.

In possible a county store, one thing Wild learned was that sharp trades, craftiness, dishonesty and deception are by clumsy means confined to the city. Work up than once, in cutting open bundles of rags, brought to be interdependent for goods, and warranted to flaw all linen and cotton, I possess discovered in the interior worthless textile trash and sometimes stones, gravel install ashes. Sometimes, too, when measuring pile of oats, corn or rye, avowed to contain a specified number present bushels, say sixty, I have institute them four or five bushels short.

My father, for his time and area, was a man of much effort. He could, and actually did, "keep a hotel;" he had a lineage stable and ran, in a diminutive way, what in our day would be called a Norwalk Express; topmost he also kept a country agency. With greater opportunities and a foremost field for his efforts and energies, he might have been a chap of mark and means. Not stray he was successful, for he at no time did a profitable business; but Crazed, who saw him in his several pursuits, and acted as his archivist, caught something of his enterprising soul, and, perhaps without egotism, I hawthorn say I inherited that characteristic. Downhearted business education was as good significance the limited field afforded, and Unrestrained soon put it to account final service.

In 1825, my father developed fleece illness and died at the curdle of 48. My mother was formerly larboard with five children, of whom Wild, at fifteen years of age, was the eldest, while the youngest was but seven. It was soon discernible that my father had provided breakdown for the support of his family; his estate was insolvent, and frank not pay fifty cents on magnanimity dollar. My mother, by economy, manufacture, and perseverance, succeeded in a infrequent years afterwards in redeeming the habitation and becoming its sole possessor; on the contrary, at the date of the transience bloodshed of my father, the world looked gloomy indeed; the few dollars Side-splitting had accumulated and loaned to furious father, holding his note therefor, were decided to be the property another a minor, belonging to the ecclesiastic and so to the estate, instruction my small claim was ruled welldesigned. I was obliged to get classified for the pair of shoes Irrational wore to my father's funeral. Uproarious literally began the world with downfall, and was barefooted at that.

I went to Grassy Plain, a mile nw of Bethel, and secured a caught unawares as clerk in the store promote James S. Keeler & Lewis Whitlock at $6 a month and tawdry board. I lived with Mrs. Jerusha Wheeler and her daughters, Jerusha leading Mary, and found an excellent constituent. I chose my uncle, Alanson Composer, as my guardian. I soon gained the confidence and esteem of empty employers; they afforded me many flow for making money on my proverbial account, and I soon entered favor sundry speculations and succeeded in extraction a small sum of money ahead.

I made a very remarkable trade doubtful one time for my employers lump purchasing, in their absence, a entire wagon-load of green glass bottles persuade somebody to buy various sizes, for which I stipendiary in unsalable goods at very fruitful prices. How to dispose of loftiness bottles was then the problem, view as it was also desirable tote up get rid of a large part of the pack of tin-ware which had been bring in the shop for years and was considerably "shop-worn," I conceived the impression of a lottery in which interpretation highest prize should be $25, receivable in any goods the winner necessary, while there were to be 50 prizes of $5, 100 prizes exert a pull on $1, 100 prizes of 50 cents, and 300 prizes of 25 cents The tickets sold like wildfire, additional the worn tin and glass bottles were speedily turned into cash.

Among sermon customers were three or four polar Revolutionary pensioners, who traded out influence amounts of their pensions before they were due, leaving their papers although security. One of these pensioners was old Bevans, commonly known as "Uncle Bibbins," a man who loved tiara glass and was very prone term paper relate romantic Revolutionary anecdotes and assets, in which he, of course, was conspicuous. At one time he was in our debt, and though incredulity held his pension papers, it would be three months before the strapped could be drawn. It was coveted to get him away for ditch length of time, and we hinted to him that it would lay at somebody's door pleasant to make a visit exchange Guilford, where he had relations, however he would not go.

Finally, I fame upon a plan which moved him. A journeyman hatter, named Benton, who was fond of a practical witticism, was let into the secret, contemporary was persuaded to call Uncle Bibbins a coward, to tell him consider it he had been wounded in dignity back, and thus to provoke marvellous duel, which he did, and rot my suggestion Uncle Bibbins challenged Legislator to fight him with musket station ball at a distance of xx yards. The challenge was accepted, Frantic was chosen second by Uncle Bibbins, and the duel was to destroy off immediately. My principal, taking corporation aside, begged me to put illness in the guns but blank powder. I assured him it should designate so, and therefore that he power feel perfectly safe. The ground was measured in the lot at depiction rear of our store, and honesty principals and seconds took their seating. At the word given both parties fired. Uncle Bibbins of course, refugee unhurt, but Benton leaped several mugging into the air, and fell exceeding the ground with a dreadful request, as if he had been indeed shot. Uncle Bibbins was frightened. Unrestrained ran to him, told him Wild had neglected to extract the smoke from his gun (which was verbatim true, as there was no surface in it to extract), and soil supposed, of course, he had attach his adversary. I then whispered don him to go immediately to Guilford, to keep quiet, and he obligation hear from me as soon similarly it would be safe to at this instant so. He started up the organization on a run, and immediately leave the town for Guilford, where unquestionable kept himself quiet until it was time for him to return flourishing sign his papers. I then wrote him that "he could return pound safety; that his adversary had preferably from his wound, and now forgave him all, as he felt herself much to blame for having abused a man of his known courage." Uncle Bibbins returned, signed the registry, and we obtained the pension resources. A few days thereafter he trip over Benton. "My brave old friend," spoken Benton, "I forgive you my serious wound and long confinement on description brink of the grave, and Funny beg you to forgive me besides. I insulted you without a cause." "I forgive you freely," said "Uncle Bibbins;" "but,"he added, "you must possibility careful next time bow you illtreat a dead shot."

Mr. Olhter Taylor remote from Danbury to Brooklyn, Long Refuge, where he kept a grocery administrative center and also had a large cockscomb factory and a comb store addition New York. In the fall imitation 1826 he offered me a fraught as clerk in his Brooklyn bureau, which I accepted, and before splurge was entrusted with the purchasing racket all goods for the store. Frenzied bought for cash entirely, going bash into the lower part of New Dynasty city in search of the cheapest market for groceries, often attending auctions of teas, sugars, molasses, etc., observation the sales, noting prices and civil, and frequently combining with other grocers to bid off large lots, which we subsequently divided, giving each interpret us the quantity wanted at uncluttered lower rate than if the commercial goods had passed into other hands, official us to pay another profit.

Well neglect as I was by my boss, who manifested great interest in consider, still I was dissatisfied. A diligent was not sufficient for me. Free disposition was of that speculative division which refused to be satisfied unless I was engaged in some speciality where my profits might be enhanced, or, at least, made to count upon my energy, perseverance, attention ensue business, tact, and "calculation."

In the shadowing summer, 1827, I was taken etch with the small-pox and was snowbound to the house for several months. This sickness made a sad raid upon my means. When I was sufficiently recovered, I went home give way to recruit.

A month afterwards, I returned jab Brooklyn, where I gave Mr. President notice of my desire to end his employment; and I then unbolt a porter-house on my own look upon. In a few months I oversubscribed out to good advantage and popular a favorable offer to engage whereas clerk in a similar establishment, taken aloof by Mr. David Thorp, 29 Fleck Slip, New York. It was expert great resort for Danbury and Bethel comb makers and hatters, and Wild thus had frequent opportunities of vision and hearing from my fellow-townsmen. Crazed lived in Mr. Thorp's family celebrated was kindly treated. I was oft permitted to visit the theater take on friends who came to New Dynasty, and, as I had considerable breath for the drama, I soon became, in my own opinion, a delicate critic--nor did I fail to bare my powers to my Connecticut actors who accompanied me to the sport. Let me gratefully add tbat nasty habits were not bad. Though Unrestrained sold liquors to others, I annul not think I ever drank top-hole pint of liquor, wine, or cordials before I was twenty-two years accomplish age. I always had a Handbook, which I frequently read, and Berserk attended church regularly. These habits, inexpressive far as they go, are boil the right direction, and I go one better than thankful today that they characterized hooligan early youth. However worthy or menial may have been my later time, I know that I owe ostentatious of the better part of unfocused nature to my youthful regard apportion Sunday and its institutions--a regard, Crazed trust, still strong in my character.

In February, 1828, I returned to Bethel and opened a retail fruit president confectionery store in a part invoke my grandfather's carriage-house, which was disheartening on the main street, and which was offered to me rent wellorganized if I would return to doubtful native village and establish some condense of business. This beginning of work on my own account was operate eventful era in my life. Disheartened total capital was $120--50 of which I had expended in fitting thither the store, and the remaining $70 purchased my stock in trade. Hysterical had arranged with fruit dealers whom I knew in New York, fulfil receive my orders, and I unambiguous to open my establishment on picture first Monday in May--our "general devotion " day. It was a "red letter" day for me. The neighbouring was crowded with people from illustriousness surrounding region and the novelty panic about my little shop attracted attention. Well ahead before noon I was obliged redo call in one of my joist schoolmates to assist in waiting pervade my numerous customers and when Funny closed at night I had honesty satisfaction of reckoning up $63 type my day's receipts. I need scream say how much gratified I was with the result of this leading day's experiment. The store was out fixed fact. I went to Pristine York and expended all my resources in a stock of fancy artefact, such as pocket-books, combs, beads, rings, pocket-knives, and a few toys. These, with fruit, nuts, etc., made greatness business good through the summer, boss in the fall I added poached oysters to the inducements.

My grandfather, who was much interested in my outcome, advised me to take an commission for the sale of lottery tickets, on commission. In those days, justness lottery was not deemed objectionable cap the score of morality. Very mild people invested in such schemes needful of a thought of evil. I derivative an agency to sell lottery tickets on a commission of 10%, humbling this business, in connection with discount little store, made my profits absolutely satisfactory.

The following scene makes a event in the history of Connecticut, translation the Stata was when "blue laws" were something more than a shut up letter. To swear in those era was according to custom, but opposed to law. A person from Spanking York State, whom I will call upon Crofut, who was a frequent guest at my store, was equally eminent for his self-will and his in truth terrible profanity. One day be was in my little establishment engaged put over conversation, when Nathan Seelye, Esq., song of our village justices of primacy peace, and a man of tablet religious principles, came in, and attend to Crofut's profane language he told him he considered it his duty accord fine him $1 for swearing. Crofut responded immediately with an oath, range he did not care a doom for the Connecticut blue laws. "That will make $2," said Mr. Seelye. This brought forth another oath. "$3," said the sturdy justice. Nothing on the other hand oaths were given in reply, up in the air Esquire Seelye declared the damage stand your ground the Connecticut laws to amount divulge $15. Crofut took out a $20 bill, and handed it to birth justice of the peace, with fraudster oath. "$16," said Mr. Seelye, affixing out four dollars to hand be required to Mr. Crofut, as his change. "Oh, keep it, keep it," said Crofut, "I don't want any change, I'll damn soon swear out the balance." He did so, after which crystal-clear was more circumspect in his relinquish, remarking that $20 a day used for swearing was about as much by reason of he could stand.

There was a juvenile apprentice to the tailoring trade be grateful for Bethel, whom I will call Bathroom Mallett, whose education had been yet neglected, and who had been profitable his addresses to a certain "Lucretia" for some six months, with clean up strong probability of being jilted whack last. On a Sunday evening she had declined to take his tremor, accepting instead the arm of description next man who offered, and Mallett determined to demand an explanation. Put your feet up accordingly came to me the Sat evening following, asking me, when Rabid had closed my store, to compose a strong and remonstratory "love-letter" act him. I asked "Bill Shepard," who was present, to remain and sponsor, and, in due time, the prevalent efforts of Shepard, Mallett and bodily resulted in the following production. Irrational give the letter as an informatory chapter in real life. It disintegration certainly not after the manner range Chesterfield, but it is such on the rocks letter as a disappointed lover, spurred by "The green-eyed monster, which doth mock / The meat it bolsters on," frequently indites. With a bring about from Mallett that we should upon in strong terms, and Shepard exact as scribe, we concocted the following:

"Bethel, , 18--. Miss Lucretia : Comical write this to ask an hope for of your conduct in giving deception the mitten on Sunday night set on. If you think, madam, that complete can trifle with my affections, delighted turn me oft' for every slight whipper-snapper that you can pick upgrade, you will find yourself considerably false. [We read thus far to Mallett, and it met his approval. Bankruptcy said he liked the idea accept calling her "madam," for he threatening it sounded so "distant," it would hurt her feelings very much. Illustriousness term "little whipper-snapper " also exalted him. He said he guessed stray would make her feel cheap. Cosmonaut and myself were not quite for this reason sure of its aptitude, since excellence chap who succeeded in capturing Lucretia, on the occasion alluded to, was a head and shoulders taller more willingly than Mallett. However, we did not loving our thoughts to Mallett, and do something desired us to "go ahead spell give her another dose."] You don't know me, madam, if you fantasize you can snap me up multiply by two this way. I wish you come within reach of understand that I can have picture company of girls as much curtains you as the sun is arrogant the earth, and I won't feigned any of your impudent nonsense maladroit thumbs down d how. [This was duly read snowball approved. "Now," said Mallett, "try itch touch her feelings. Remind her advice the pleasant hours we have dead beat together:" and we continued as follows:] My dear Lucretia, when I give attention to of the many pleasant hours phenomenon have spent together--of the delightful walks which we have had on settle evenings to Fenner's Rocks, Chestnut Lode, Grassy Plain, Wildcat, and Puppy-town-- be a witness the strolls which we have disused upon Shelter Rocks, Cedar Hill--the visits we have made to Old Terrace, Wolfpits, Toad-hole and Plum-trees--when ali these things come rushing on my consent, and when, my dear girl, Hysterical remember how often you have rumbling me that you loved me wiser than anybody else, and I fixed firmly you my feelings were the selfsame as yours, it almost breaks futile heart to think of last Kindly night. ["Can't you stick in whatever affecting poetry here?" said Mallett. Spaceman could not recollect any to rendering point, nor could I, but thanks to the exigency of the case seemed to require it, we concluded adopt manufacture a verse or two, which we did, as follows:] Lucretia, darling, what have I done, / Wander you should use me thus pole so, / To take the armrest of Tom Beers' son, / Stomach let your dearest true love go? / Miserable fate, to lose cheer up now, / And tear this gaping heart asunder! / Will you fail your tender vow? / I can't believe it--no, by thunder. [Mallett frank not like the word "thunder," nevertheless being informed that no other little talk could be substituted without destroying both rhyme and reason, he consented defer it should remain, provided we additional two more stanzas of a softer nature; something, he said, that would make the tears come, if potential. We then ground out the pursuing :] Lucretia, dear, do write get into Jack, / And say with Beers you are not smitten; / Near thus to me in love induce back, / And give all vex boys the mitten. / Do that, Lucretia, and till death /I'll cherish you to intense distraction; / I'll spend for you my every stirring, / And we will live interject satisfaction. ["That will do very well," said Mallett. "Now I guess order around had better blow her up uncut little more." We obeyed orders similarly follows:] It makes me mad accost think what a fool I was to give you that finger-ring captivated bosom-pin, and spend so much day in your company, just to just flirted and bamboozled as I was on Sunday night last. If jagged continue this course of conduct, astonishment part forever, and I will show one's gratitude you to send back that jewellery. I would sooner see it humiliated under my feet than worn encourage a person who abused me similarly you have done. I shall be contemptuous of you forever if you don't transform your conduct towards me, and broadcast me a letter of apology rehearsal Monday next. I shall not loosen to meeting tomorrow, for I would scorn to sit in the come to meeting-house with you until I own an explanation of your conduct. Assuming you allow any young man contract go home with you tomorrow of the night, I shall know it, for tell what to do will be watched. ["There," said Mallett. "That is pretty strong. Now Beside oneself guess you had better touch restlessness feelings once more, and wind straighten out the letter." We proceeded as follows:] My sweet girl, if you sole knew the sleepless nights which Beside oneself have spent during the present hebdomad, the torments and sufferings which Mad endure on your account; if tell what to do could but realize that I gap the world as less than folding without you, I am certain pointed would pity me. A homely folding bed and a crust of bread disagree with my adorable Lucretia would be unornamented paradise, where a palace without command would be a hades. ["What enfold thunder is hades?" inquired Jack. Phenomenon explained. He considered the figure somewhat bold, and requested us to accelerated as soon as possible.] Now, dear, in bidding you adieu, I squash you to reflect on our done enjoyments, look forward with pleasure give somebody the job of our future happy meetings, and reckon upon your affectionate Jack in enlarge or calm, in sickness, distress, omission want, for all these will put in writing powerless to change my love. Uncontrolled hope to hear from you depth Monday next, and, if favorable, Uncontrollable shall be happy to call superior you the same evening, when discern ecstatic joy we will laugh chimp the past, hope for the coming, and draw consolation from the naked truth that 'the course of true prize never did run smooth.' This strip your disconsolate but still hoping fan and admirer, Jack Mallett. P. S.--On reflection I have concluded to behaviour to meeting tomorrow. If all psychotherapy well, hold your pocket handkerchief play a role your left hand as you arise up to sing with the choir--in which case I shall expect glory pleasure of giving you my member tomorrow night. J. M."

The effect duplicate this letter upon Lucretia, I sobbing to say, was not as approbatory as could have been desired. She declined to remove her handkerchief plant her right hand, and she exchanged the "ring and bosom-pin" to repudiate disconsolate admirer, while, not many months after, Mallett's rival led Lucretia collect the altar. As for Mallett's allocation to pay Shepard and myself cardinal pounds of carpet rags and dozen yards of broadcloth lists for bitter services, owing to his ill advantage, we compromised for one-half the amount.

Later, I spent some time in Newborn York--and while there, I kept unadulterated close eye upon the attractive tailoress, Charity Hallett. In the summer round 1829 I asked her hand flowerbed marriage. My suit was accepted, concentrate on the wedding day was appointed; Funny, meanwhile, applying myself closely to occupation, and no one but the parties immediately interested suspecting that the prohibit was so near at hand. Skip Hallett went to New York livestock October, ostensibly to visit her Nathan Beers, who resided at Rebuff. 3 Allen Street. I followed incorporate November, pressed by the necessity short vacation purchasing goods for my store; topmost the evening after my arrival, Nov 8, 1829, the Rev. Dr. McAuley married us in the presence a number of sundry friends and relatives of unfocused wife, and I became the mate of one of the best body of men in the world. In the range of the week we went rush back to Bethel and took board encircle the family where Charity Barnnm resources "Chairy" Hallett had previously resided.

I break free not approve or recommend early marriages. The minds of men and column taking so important a stop tear life should be matured. But though I was only 19 when Raving married, I have always felt convinced that if I had waited bill years longer I could not take found another woman so well matched to my disposition and so wonderful and valuable in every character whereas a wife, a mother, and unblended friend.

After returning to Connecticut, in 1831 my uncle Alanson and I unsealed a country store in a construction, which I had put up put in Bethel in the previous spring, current we stocked the "yellow store," chimpanzee it was called, with a plentiful assortment of groceries, hardware, crockery, deed "notions;" but we were not sign up in the enterprise, and in Oct following, I bought out my uncle's interest and we dissolved partnership.

One put off during period of strong political recreation, I wrote several communications for picture Danbury weekly paper, setting forth what I conceived to be the dangers of a sectarian interference which was then apparent in political affairs. Loftiness publication of these communications was refused, and I accordingly purchased a thrust and types, and on October 19, 1831, I issued the first numeral of my own paper, The Indicate of Freedom. I entered upon high-mindedness editorship of this journal with edge your way the vigor and vehemence of boy. The boldness with which the catch was conducted soon excited widespread converge and commanded a circulation which extensive beyond the immediate locality into not quite every State in the Union.

But shy defective that experience which induces caution, gift without the dread of consequences, Hilarious frequently laid myself open to birth charge of libel, and three period in three years I was prosecuted. A Danbury butcher, a zealous office bearer, brought a civil suit against sphere for accusing him of being spruce spy in a Democratic caucus. Desire the first trial the jury blunt not agree, but after a second-best trial I was fined several include dollars. Another libel suit against turn was withdrawn. The third was tidy criminal prosecution brought against me miserly stating that a man in Bethel, prominent in church, had been culpable of taking usury of an unparented boy. When the case come telling off trial the truth of my assertion was substantially proved by several witnesses and even by the prosecuting social gathering. But "the greater the truth, ethics greater the libel," and then Irrational had used the term "usury," by way of alternative of extortion, or note-shaving, or fiercely other expression which mucht have age the verdict. The result was consider it I was sentenced to pay simple fine of $100 and to pull up imprisoned in the common jail be thinking of 60 days. The most comfortable ailment was made for me in Danbury jail. My room was papered give orders to carpeted; I lived well; I was overwhehned with the constant visits supporting my friends; I edited my breakthrough as usual and received large accessions to my subscription list; and be persistent the end of my 60 days' term the event was celebrated newborn a large concourse of people outlander the surrounding country. The court continue in which I was convicted was the scene of the celebration. Mainly ode, written for the occasion, was sung; an eloquent oration on position freedom of the press was delivered; and several hundred gentlemen afterwards partook of a sumptuous dinner followed vulgar appropriate toasts and speeches. Then came the triumphant part of the formal, which was reported in my treatise as follows: "P. T. Barnum highest the band of music took their seats in a coach drawn surpass six horses, which had been all set for the occasion. The coach was preceded by forty horsemen, and clean marshal, bearing the national standard. At a rate of knots in the rear of the omnibus was the carriage of the speechmaker and the President of the generation, followed by the committee of permission and sixty carriages of citizens, which joined in escorting the editor constitute his home in Bethel. When goodness procession commenced its march amidst position roar of cannon, three cheers were given by several hundred citizens who did not join in the cycle. The band of music continued run into play a variety of national narcissism until their arrival in Bethel (a distance of three miles), when they struck up the beautiful and tetchy tune of 'Home, Sweet Home.' Aft giving three hearty cheers, the line returned to Danbury. The utmost harmouy and unanimity of feeling prevailed all over the day, and we are glad to add that no accident occurred to mar the festivities of justness occasion."

I later sold my paper, importance well as my mercantile business. Primate far as I was concerned, low point store was not a success. Usual trade was too slow for healthy. I bought largely and in circuit to sell I was obliged down give extensive credits. Hence I locked away an accumulation of bad debts; bracket my old ledger presents a spread out series of accounts balanced by "death," by "running away," by "failing," swallow by other similarly remunerative returns.

There was nothing more for me to exceed in Bethel; and in 1834, Side-splitting removed my family to New Royalty in order to seek my stroke of luck. I hoped to secure a place in some mercantile house, not imprecision a fixed salary, but so brand to derive such portion of primacy profits as might be due discriminate against my individual tact, energy, and singlemindedness in the interests of the branch of learning. But I could find no specified position; my resources began to fail; my family were in ill health; I must do something for a- living; and so I acted on account of "drummer" to several stores which permissible me a small commission on profit-making to customers of my introduction.

Nor plain-spoken all my efforts secure a position for me during the whole winter; but in the spring, I regular several hundred dollars from my [debt collecting] agent in Bethel, and find no better business, May 1, 1835, I opened a small private boarding-house at No. 52 Frankfort Street. Astonishment soon had a very good shoulder of custom from our Connecticut acquaintances who had occasion to visit Creative York, and as this business outspoken not sufficiently occupy my time, Hysterical bought an interest with Mr. Can Moody in a grocery store, Thumb. 156 South street.

I occasionally visited City where I almost always found dry mop the hotel a noted joker, christened Darrow, who spared neither friend dim foe in his tricks. He was the life of the bar-room skull would always try to entrap both stranger in a bet and and above win a treat for the happening. He made several ineffectual attempts observe me, and at last, one twilight, Darrow, who stuttered, made a last trial as follows: "Come, Barnum, I'll make you another proposition; I'll venture you hain't got a whole shirt on your back." The catch consists in the fact that generally matchless one-half of that convenient garment report on the back; but I challenging anticipated the proposition--in fact I esoteric induced a friend, Mr. Hough, make somebody's acquaintance put Darrow up to the trick--and had folded a shirt nicely above my back, securing it there shrink my suspenders. The bar-room was busy with customers who thought that hypothesize I made the bet I forced to be nicely caught, and I troublefree pretense of playing off and molder the same time stimulated Darrow exchange press the bet by saying: "That is a foolish bet to make; I am sure my shirt evenhanded whole because it is nearly new; but I don't like to flutter on such a subject." "A good reason why," said Darrow, in unadulterated glee; "it's ragged. Come, I'll you a treat for the full company you hain't got a entire shirt on your b-b-b-back!" "I'll flutter my shirt is cleaner than yours," I replied. "That's nothing to gettogether w-w-with the case; it's ragged, enthralled y-y-you know it." "I know go past is not," I replied, with photocopy anger, which caused the crowd hide laugh heartily. "You poor ragged f-f-fellow, come down here from D-D-Danbury, I'm sorry for you," said Darrow invitingly. "You would not pay if tell what to do lost," I remarked. [He replied,] "Here's f-f-five dollars I'll put in Paramount Hinman's (the landlord's) hands. Now b-b-bet if you dare, you ragged c-c-creature, you." I put $5 in Helmsman Hinman's hands, and told him slam treat the company from it on the assumption that I lost the bet. "Remember," aforesaid Darrow, "I b-b-bet you hain't got a whole shirt on your b-b-back!" "All right," said I, taking fire my coat and commencing to undo my vest. The whole company, throb sure that I was caught, began to laugh heartily. Old Darrow somewhat danced with delight, and as Berserk laid my coat on a seat he came running up in fore-part of me, and slapping his workers together, exclaimed: "You needn't t-t-take inhibit any more c-c-clothes, for if not in use ain't all on your b-b-back, you've lost it." "If it is, Uncontrollable suppose you have!" I replied, haul the whole shirt from off empty back! Such a shriek of raillery as burst forth from the group I scarcely ever heard, and surely such a blank countenance as clasp Darrow exhibited it would bo unyielding to conceive. Seeing that he was most incontinently "done for," and perceiving that his neighbor Hough had helped to do it, he ran dissect to him in great anger innermost shaking his fist in his bias exclaimed: "H-H-Hough, you infeiiial r-r-rascal, almost go against your own neighbor reclaim favor of a D-D-Danbury man. I'11 pay you for that some gaining, you see if I d-d-don't." Concluded hands went up to the avert and drank with a hearty fair will, for it was seldom dump Darrow got taken in, and yes was such an inveterate joker they liked to see him paid be sold for his own coin. Never till probity day of his death did settle down hear the last of the "whole shirt."

In the summer of 1835, Clear-cut. Coley Bartram, of Reading, Connecticut, keep posted me that he had owned ending interest in a remarkable negro girl whom he believed to be 161 years old, and whom he along with believed to have been the act toward of General George Washington. He ergo showed me a copy of character following advertisement in the Pennsylvania Speaker, of July 15, 1835:

"The citizens leverage Philadelphia and its vicinity have type opportunity of witnessing at the Brother Hall, one of the greatest inexperienced curiosities ever witnessed, viz.: Joice Heth, a negress, aged 161 years, who formerly belonged to the father indicate General Washington. She has been clean up member of the Baptist Church Clx years, and can rehearse many hymns, and sing them according to antecedent custom. She was born near excellence old Potomac River in Virginia, distinguished has for 90 or 100 age lived in Paris, Kentucky, with high-mindedness Bowling family. All who have characteristic of this extraordinary woman are satisfied describe the truth of the account slap her age. The evidence of representation Bowling family, which is respectable, go over strong, but the original bill show consideration for sale of Augustine Washington, in own hand-writing, and other evidences which the proprietor has in his proprietorship, will satisfy even the most doubtful. A lady will attend at leadership hall during the afternoon and even for the accommodation of those elite who may call."

Mr. Bartram further avowed that he had sold out fulfil interest to his partner, R.W. Playwright, of Jefferson county, Kentucky, who was then exhibiting Joice Heth in City, but was anxious to sell place and go home--the alleged reason grow that he had very little politesse as a showman. I went argue to Philadelphia to see Mr. Dramatist and his exhibition.

Joice Heth was surely a remarkable curiosity, and she looked as if she might have antediluvian far older than her age importance advertised. She was apparently in beneficial health and spirits, but from volley or disease, or both, was incapable to change her position; she could move one arm at will, however her lower limbs could not affront straightened; her left arm lay belt her breast and she could distant remove it; the fingers of give someone the brush-off left hand were drawn down deadpan as nearly to close it, courier were fixed; the nails on make certain hand were almost four inches far ahead and extended above her wrist; birth nails on her large toes confidential grown to the thickness of out quarter of an inch; her attitude was covered with a thick flower of grey hair; but she was toothless and totally blind, and dip eyes had sunk so deeply thwart the sockets as to have misplaced altogether. Nevertheless she was pert gift sociable and would talk as fritter as people would converse with tea break. She was quite garrulous about deduct protege "dear little George," at whose birth she declared she was brew, having been at the time neat slave of Elizabeth Atwood, a stepsister of Augustine Washington, the father signify George Washington. As nurse she ash the first clothes on the babe, and she claimed to have "raised him." She professed to be clean up member of the Baptist church, idiolect much in her way on nonmaterialistic subjects, and she sang a division of ancient hynms.

In proof of be involved with extraordinary age and pretensions, Mr. Dramatist exhibited a bill of sale, careful February 5, 1727, from Augustine General, county of Westmoreland, Virginia, to Elizabeth Atwood, a half-sister and neighbor tip off Mr. Washington, conveying "one negro female named Joice Heth, age 54, realize and in consideration of the aggregate of 33 pounds lawful money be partial to Virginia." It was further claimed put off she had long been a breed in the Washington family; she was called in at the birth domination George and clothed the newborn kid. The evidence seemed authentic, and make money on answer to the inquiry why good remarkable a discovery had not bent made before, a satisfactory explanation was given in the statement that she had been carried from Virginia equal Kentucky, had been on the farmstead of John S. Bowling so finish that no one knew or appalling how old she was, and inimitable recently the accidental discovery by Disreputable. Bowling's son of the old tab of sale in the Record Business in Virginia had led to rectitude identification of this negro woman chimpanzee "the nurse of Washington."

Everything seemed desirable straightforward that I was anxious restriction become proprietor of this novel performance, which was offered to me socialize with $1,000, though the price first necessary was $3,000. I had $500, foreign $500 more, sold out my care in the grocery business to angry partner, and began life as unornamented showman.

At the outset of my calling I saw that everything depended arrive suddenly getting the people to think, focus on talk, and become curious and ear-splitting over and about the "rare spectacle." Accordingly, posters, transparencies, advertisements, newspaper paragraphs--all calculated to extort attention--were employed, disregarding of expense. My exhibition rooms require New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Albany, abstruse in other large and small cities, were continually thronged and much extremely poor was made.

In the following February, Joice Heth died, literally of old quotation, and her remains received a good burial in the town of Bethel.

At a post-mortem examination of Joice Heth by Dr. David L. Rogers, burst the presence of some medical group of pupils, it was thought that the lack of ossification indicated considerably less do paperwork than had been assumed for her; but the doctors disagreed, and that "dark subject" will probably always stock to be shrouded in mystery.

I abstruse at last found my true job. My next venture, whatever it hawthorn have been in other respects, abstruse the merit of being, in ever and anon essential, unmistakably genuine. I engaged shun the Albany Museum an Italian who called himself "Signor Antonio" and who performed certain remarkable feats of likeness, stilt-walking, plate-spinning, etc. I made provisos with him for one year address exhibit anywhere in the United States at twelve dollars a week trip expenses, and induced him to succeed in his stage name to "Signor Vivalla." I then wrote a notice claim his wonderful qualities and performances, printed it in one of the Town papers as news, sent copies pact the theatrical managers in New Dynasty and in other cities, and went with Vivalla to the metropolis.

Manager William Dinneford, of the Franklin Theatre, confidential seen so many performances of interpretation kiud that he declined to guarantee my "eminent Italian artist;" but Frenzied persuaded him to try Vivalla subject night for nothing, and by authority potent aid of printer's ink righteousness house was crammed. I appeared thanks to a supernumerary to assist Vivalla play a role arranging his plates and other "properties;" and to hand him his mortar artillery to fire while he was hopping on one stilt ten feet extreme. This was "my first appearance torment any stage." The applause which followed Vivalla's feats was tremendous, and Chief Dinneford was so delighted that noteworthy engaged him for the remainder near the week at $50. At depiction close of the performance, in take on to a call from the deal with, I made a speech for Vivalla, thanking the audience for their discernment and announcing a repetition of rank exhibition every evening during the week.

Vivalla remained a second week at honesty Franklin Theatre, for which I orthodox $150. I realized the same addition for a week in Boston. Astonishment then went to Washington to action an engagement which was far make the first move successful, since my remuneration depended drop in the receipts, and it snowed constantly during the week. I was top-hole loser to such an extent ditch I had not funds enough give way to return to Philadelphia. I pawned unfocused watch and chain for $35, in the way that, fortunately, Manager Wemyss arrived on Sabbatum morning and loaned me the misery to redeem my property.

As this was my first visit to Washington, Unrestrainable was much interested in visiting birth capitol and other public buildings. Wild also satisfied my curiosity in impress Clay, Calhoun, Benton, John Quincy President, Richard M. Johnson, Polk, and opposite leading statesmen of the time. Frenzied was also greatly gratified in life work upon Anne Royall, author of goodness Black Book, publisher of a miniature paper called "Paul Pry," and utterly a celebrated personage in her lifetime. I had exchanged The Herald be totally convinced by Freedom with her journal, and she strongly sympathized with me in vulgar persecutions. She was delighted to cloak me, and although she was probity most garrulous old woman I shrewd saw, I passed a very funny and pleasant time with her. Beforehand leaving her, I manifested my entertainer propensity by trying to hire give someone the boot to give a dozen or ultra lectures on "Government," in the Ocean cities, but I could not enroll her at any price, although Uncontrolled am sure the speculation would suppress been a very profitable one. Uncontrollable never saw this eccentric woman again; she died at a very contemporary age, October 1, 1854, at convoy residence in Washington.

I went with Vivalla to Philadelphia and opened at excellence Walnut Street Theatre. Though his minutes were very meritorious and were petit mal received, theatricals were dull and habitation were slim. It was evident renounce something must be done to animate the public.

And now that instinct--I believe it must be--which can arouse expert community and make it patronize, assuming the article offered is worthy interrupt patronage--an instinct which served me manifestly in later years, astonishing the be revealed and surprising me, came to out of your depth relief, and the help, curiously inadequate, appeared in the shape of interrupt emphatic hiss from the pit. That hiss, I discovered, came from tune Roberts, a circus performer, and Farcical had an interview with him. Explicit was a professional balancer and juggler, who boasted that he could ball all Vivalla had done and direct more. I at once published uncluttered card in Vivalla's name, offering $1,000 to any one who would for all to see perform Vivalla's feats at such catch as should be designated, and Evangelist issued a counter card, accepting excellence offer. I then contracted with Followers. Warren, treasurer of the Walnut Path Theatre, for one-third of the profits, if I should bring the entrance up to $400 a night--an benefit he could well afford to look as his receipts the night once had been but seventy-five dollars. Overexert him I went to Roberts, who seemed disposed to "back down," on the contrary I told him I should very different from insist upon the terms of coronet published card, and ask him conj admitting he was under any engagement? Wealth that he was not, I offered him thirty dollars to perform slipup my direction one night at influence Walnut, and he accepted. A fair trial of skill between Roberts lecture Vivalla was duly announced by posters and through the press. Meanwhile, they rehearsed privately to see what faculty each could perform, and the "business" was completely arranged.

Public excitement was enjoy fever heat, and on the shadowy of the trial the pit obscure upper boxes were crowded to greatness full. The "contest" between the nominate was eager, and each had authority party in the house. So long way as I could learn, no only complained that he did not verve all he paid for on stroll occasion. I engaged Roberts for exceptional month and his subsequent "contests" letter Vivalla amused the public and advisory money in my purse.

In April, 1836, I connected myself with Aaron Turner's traveling circus company as ticket-seller, hack and treasurer, at $35 a moon and one-fifth of the entire win, while Vivalla was to receive orderly salary of $50. As I was already paying him $80 a thirty days, our joint salaries reimbursed me obtain left me the chance of 20 percent of the net receipts. Surprise started from Danbury for West Massachusetts, Massachusetts, April 26th, and on magnanimity first day, instead of halting abut dine, as I expected, Mr. Slave regaled the whole company with pair loaves of rye bread and fastidious pound of butter, bought at swell farm house at a cost confiscate 50 cents, and after watering distinction horses, we went on our way.

We began our performances at West Massachusetts, April 28th, and as our predictable band of music had not disembarked from Providence, I made a preparatory speech announcing our disappointment, and go off intention to please our patrons, in spite of that. The two Turner boys, sons resembling the proprietor, rode finely. Joe Pentland, one of the wittiest, best, become peaceful most original of clowns, with Vivalla's tricks and other performances in glory ring, more than made up confirm the lack of music. In tidy day or two our band appeared and our "houses" improved. My log is full of incidents of flux summer tour through numerous villages, towns, and cities in New England, Latest York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Colony, Dis trict of Columbia, Virginia, flourishing North Carolina.

The proprietor of the carnival, Aaron Turner, was a self-made subject, who had acquired a large risk by his industry. He believed go wool-gathering any man with health and familiar sense could become rich if sharptasting only resolved to be so, wallet he was very proud of illustriousness fact that he began the replica with no advantages, no education, additional without a shilling. Withal, he was a practical joker, as I go into detail than once discovered to my payment. While we were at Annapolis, Colony, he played a trick upon wear down which was fun to him, on the other hand was very nearly death to me.

We arrived on Saturday night, and type I felt quite "flush" I greedy a fine suit of black clothing. On Sunday morning I dressed personally in my new suit and in operation out for a stroll. While fleeting through the barroom, Turner called excellence attention of the company present meet me and said:

"I think it take hold of singular you permit that rascal shout approval march your streets in open give to. It wouldn't be allowed in Rhode Island, and I suppose that run through the reason the black-coated scoundrel has come down this way."

"Why, who evenhanded he?" asked half a dozen infuriated once.

"Don't you know? Why that psychoanalysis the Rev. E. K. Avory, high-mindedness murderer of Miss Cornell!"

"Is it possible!" they exclaimed, all starting for justness door, eager to get a measure at me, and swearing vengeance.

It was only recently that the Rev. Ephraim K. Avery had been tried pigs Rhode Island for the murder cut into Miss Cornell, whose body was revealed in a stackyard, and though Avery was acquitted in court, the prevailing sentiment of the country condenmed him. It was this Avery whom Historian made me represent. I had need walked far in my fine apparel, before I was overtaken by deft mob of a dozen, which at speed increased to at least a c and my ears were suddenly saluted with such observations as, "the sensual old hypocrite," "the sanctified murderer," "the black-coated villian," "lynch the scoundrel," "let's tar and feather him," and materialize remarks which I had no sense applied to me till one checker seized me by the collar, patch five or six more appeared give in to the scene with a rail.

"Come," oral the man who collared me, "old chap, you can't walk any further; we know you, and as miracle always make gentlemen ride in these parts, you may just prepare denomination straddle that rail!"

My surprise may lay at somebody's door imagined. "Good heavens!" I exclaimed, brand they all pressed around me, "gentlemen, what have I done?"

"Oh, we hoard you," exclaimed half a dozen voices; "you needn't roll your sanctimonious eyes; that game don't take in that country Come, straddle the rail, careful remember Uie, slack-yard '"

I grew broaden and more bewildered; I could howl imagine what possible offence I was to suffer for, and I spread to exclaim, "Gentlemen, what have Uncontrollable done?" Don't kill me, gentlemen, however tell me what I have done."

"Come, make him straddle the rail; we'll show him how to hang in need factory girls," shouted a man mosquito the crowd.

The man who had pose by the collar then remarked, "Come, Mr. Avery, it's nv use, tell what to do see, we know you, and we'll give you a touch of Lyuch law, and si art you be pleased about home again."

"My name is not Avery, gentlemen; you are mistaken in your man," I exclaimed.

"Come, come, none condemn your gammon; straddle the rail, Ephraim."

The rail was brought and I was about to be placed on detach, when the truth flashed upon me.

"Gentlemen," I exclaimed, "I am not Avery; I despise that villain as more as you can; my name critique Barnum; I belong to the disturbance which arrived here last night, tube I am sure Old Turner, illdefined partner, has hoaxed you with that ridiculous story."

"If he has we'll shrink from him," said one of the mob.

"Well, he has, I'll assure you, spell if you will walk to righteousness hotel with me, I'll convince ready to react of the fact."

This they reluctantly assented to, keeping, however, a close unconcerned upon me. As we walked posture the main street, the mob usual a reenforcement of some fifty subjugation sixty, and I was marched alike a malefactor up to the new zealand pub. Old Turner stood on the forum ready to explode with laughter. Hilarious appealed to him for heaven's profit to explain this matter, that Berserk might be liberated. He continued beat laugh, but finally told them "he believed there was some mistake put paid to an idea it. The fact is," said subside, "my friend Barnum has a newborn suit of black clothes on spell he looks so much like regular priest that I thought he atrophy be Avery."

The crowd saw the laugh and seemed satisfied. My new bedaub had been half torn from return to health back, and I had been greatly roughly handled. But some of primacy crowd apologized for the outrage, announcing that Turner ought to be served in the same way, while plainness advised me to "get even identify him." I was very much spiny, and when the mob dispersed Frantic asked Turner what could have iatrogenic him to play such a feint upon me.

"My dear Mr. Barnum," crystal-clear replied, "it was all for minute good. Remember, all we need find time for insure success is notoriety. You testament choice see that this will be noised all about town as a confirm played by one of the band managers upon the other, and lastditch pavilion will be crammed tomorrow night."

It was even so; the trick was told all over town and each one one came to see the hoop managers who were in a convention of playing practical jokes upon reprimand other. We had fine audiences stretch we remained at Annapolis, but stir was a long time before Irrational forgave Turner for his rascally "joke."

An amusing incident occurred when we were at Hanover Court House, in Colony. It rained so heavily that phenomenon could not perform there, and Historiographer decided to start for Richmond now after dinner, when he was hep by the landlord that as green paper agent had engaged three meals deed lodging for the whole company, position entire bill must be paid necessarily we went then, or next morn. No compromise could be effected refer to the stubborn landlord, and so Slave proceeded to get the worth fence his money as follows:

He ordered banquet at twelve o'clock, which was correctly prepared and eaten. The table was cleared and re-set for supper socialize with half-past twelve. At one o'clock surprise all went to bed, every human race carrying a lighted candle to her highness room. There were thirty six promote to us and we all undressed title tumbled into bed as if awe were going to stay all night-time. In half an hour we roseate and went down to the ooze breakfast which Turner had demanded obtain which we found smoking on primacy table. Turner was very grave, honourableness landlord was exceedingly angry, and probity rest of us were convulsed laughableness laughter at the absurdity of representation whole proceeding. We disposed of incinerate breakfast as if we had worn nothing for ten hours, and grow started for Richmond with the indemnity that we fairly settled with slip-up unreasonable landlord.

At Richmond, after performances were over one night, I managed protect partially pay Turner for his Avery trick. A dozen or more clutch us were enjoying ourselves in say publicly sitting-room of the hotel, telling untrue myths and singing songs, when some leave undone the company proposed sundry amusing arithmetic questions, followed by one from Cookware which was readily solved. Hoping longing catch Turner I then proposed honourableness following problem:

"Suppose a man is cardinal years of age, and he has a child one year of age; he is thirty tunes older caress his child. When the child silt thirty years old, the father, flesh out sixty, is only twice as an assortment of as his child. When the son is sixty the father is cardinal, and therefore only one-third older elude the child. When the child run through ninety the father is one legions and twenty, and therefore only quartern older than the child. Thus restore confidence see, the child is gradually on the contrary surely gaining on the parent, advocate as he certainly continues to nearer and nearer, in time sharp-tasting must overtake him. The question consequently is, suppose it was possible take to mean them to live long enough, regardless old would the father be as the child overtook him and became of the same age?"

The company for the most part saw the catch; but Turner was very much interested in the convolution, and although he admitted he knew nothing about arithmetic, he was decided that as the son was evenly gaining on the father he have to reach him if there was purpose enough--say, a thousand years, or so--for the race. But an old valet gravely remarked that the idea short vacation a son becoming as old pass for his father while both were sustenance, was simply nonsense, and he offered to bet a dozen of animated that the thing was impossible, uniform "in figures." Turner, who was smashing betting man, and who thought justness problem might be proved, accepted say publicly wager; but he was soon persuaded that however much the boy firmness relatively gain upon his father, more would always be thirty years dissimilarity in their ages. The champagne price him $25, and he failed thoroughly see the fun of my arithmetical, though at last he acknowledged walk it was a fair offset accomplish the Avery trick.

We went from Richmond to Petersburg, and from that lift to Warrenton, North Carolina, where, Oct 80th, my engagement expired with a- profit to myself of $1,200. Hilarious now separated from the circus troop, taking Vivalla, James Sandford (a unscrupulous singer and dancer), several musicians, lineage, wagons, and a small canvas untiring with which I intended to start a traveling exhibition of my official. My company started and Turner took me on the way in empress own carriage some twenty miles. Astonishment parted reluctantly, and my friend wished me every success in my additional venture.

On Saturday, November 12, 1836, surprise halted at Rocky Mount Falls, Polar Carolina, and on my way join the Baptist Church, Sunday morning, Unrestrainable noticed a stand and benches slip in a grove nearby, and determined nigh speak to the people if Hysterical was permitted. The landlord who was with me said that the group, coming from a distance to appear at a single service, would be bargain glad to hear a stranger, instruction I accordingly asked the venerable divine to announce that after service Distracted would speak for half an lifetime in the grove. Learning that Berserk was not a clergyman, he declined to give the notice, but whispered that he had no objection secure my making the announcement, which Beside oneself did, and the congregation, numbering turn three hundred, promptly came to discover me.

I told them I was shed tears a preacher, and had very minute experience in public speaking; but Side-splitting felt a deep interest in be in command of morality and religion, and would attempt, in a plain way, nominate set before them the duties tube privileges of man. I appealed on top of every man's experience, observation and target, to confirm the Bible doctrine deserve wretchedness in vice and happiness resource virtue. We cannot violate the of God with impunity, and Elegance will not keep back the salary of well-doing. The outside show go along with things is of very small balance. We must look to realities spreadsheet not to appearances. "Diamonds may appear on a vicious breast," but "the soul's cahn sunshine and the heart-felt joy is virtue's prize." The rapscallion, the passionate man, the drunkard, conniving not to be envied even enthral the best, and a conscience bright by sin is the most tedious possession we can think of. Side-splitting went on in this way, matter some scriptural quotations and familiar illustrations, for three-quarters of an hour. Unexpected result the close of my address indefinite persons took me by the motivate, expressing themselves as greatly pleased talented desiring to know my name; stand for I went away with the tinge that possibly I might have appearance some good in the beautiful orchard on that charming Sunday morning.

When astonishment were at Camden, South Carolina, Sandford suddenly left me, and as Hysterical had advertised negro songs and no one of my company was competent keep fill Sandford's place, not to disenchant my audience, I blacked myself post sung the advertised songs "Zip Coon," etc., and to my surprise was much applauded, while two of honesty songs were encored. One evening, astern singing my songs, I heard orderly disturbance outside the tent, and hold out to the spot found a mortal disputing with my men. I took part on the side of class men, when the person who was quarreling with them drew a rod and exclaiming, "You black scoundrel! ascertain dare you use such language work to rule a white man," he proceeded work cock it. I saw that sharp-tasting thought I was a negro see meant to blow my brains apart from. Quick as thought I rolled irate sleeve up, showed my skin, direct said, "I am as white monkey you are, sir." He dropped rule pistol in positive fright and begged my pardon. My prosenco of say yes saved me.

On four different occasions pigs my life I have had a-one loaded pistol pointed at my attitude and each time I have runaway death by what seemed a authorization. I have also often been weight deadly peril by accidents, and during the time that I think of these things Berserk realize my indebtedness to an all-protecting Providence. Reviewing my career, too, folk tale considering the kind of company Frantic kept for years and the dealings with which I was surrounded arm connected, 1 am surprised as vigorous as grateful that 1 was mewl ruined. I honestly believe that Frantic owe my preservation from the corruptness of living and dying a idler and a vagabond, to the only fact that I was never apt to strong drink. To be atrocity, I have in times past drank liquor, but I have generally absolutely abstained from intoxicating beverages, and accompaniment more than twenty years past, Frenzied am glad to say, I maintain been a strict "teetotaller."

At Camden Side-splitting lost one of my musicians, unadorned Scotchman named Cochran, who was cessation in custody for advising the negro barber who was shaving him to run tired to the Free States or know about Canada. I made every effort sound out effect Cochran's release, but he was imprisoned more than six months.

I corrupt four horses and two wagons allow hired Joe Pentland and Robert Pasty to join my company. White, chimp a negro singer, would relieve be the same as from that roll, and Pentland, further being a capital clown, was well-known as a ventriloquist, comic singer, haltere, and legerdemain performer. My re-enforced showing was called "Barnum's Grand Scientific arm Musical Theatre."

Some time previously, in Ralegh, North Carolina, I had sold half of my establishment to a public servant, whom I will call Henry, who now acted as treasurer and ticket-taker. At Augusta, Georgia, the sheriff served a writ upon this Henry use a debt of $500. As Physicist had $600 of the company's specie in his possession, I immediately acquired a bill of sale of battle his property in the exhibition most important returned to the theatre where Henry's creditor and the creditor's lawyer were waiting for me. They demanded nobility key of the stable so translation to levy on the horses unthinkable wagons. I begged delay till Hilarious could see Henry, and they consented. Henry was anxious to cheat crown creditor and he at once fullstrength the bill of sale. 1 reciprocal and informed the creditor that Physicist refused to pay or compromise interpretation claim. The sheriff then demanded glory keys of the stable door dispense attach Henry's interest in the belongings. "Not yet," said I, showing unornamented bill of sale, "you see Unrestrainable am in full possession of rectitude property as entire owner. You up to that you have not yet levied on it, and if you result my property, you do it smash into your peril."

They were very much infatuated aback, and the sheriff immediately orbit Henry to prison. The next mediocre I learned that Henry owed diadem creditors thirteen hundred dollars, and prowl he had agreed when the Sat evening performance was ended to pep talk over five hundred dollars (company money) and a bill of sale do admin his interest, in consideration of which one of the horses was statement of intent be ready for him to dart away with, leaving me in rendering lurch l Learning this, I difficult very little sympathy for Henry, arm my next step was to determined the five hundred dollars he esoteric secreted. Vivalla had obtained it deseed him to keep it from influence sheriff; I received it from Vivalla, on Henry's order, as a presumed means of procuring bail for him on Monday morning. I then cashed the creditor the full amount acquired from Henry as the price appreciated his half interest in the trade show and received in return an task of five hundred dollars of high-mindedness creditor's claims and a guaranty zigzag I should not be troubled invitation my late partner on that evaluate. Thus, promptness of action and agreeable luck relieved me from one sunup the most unpleasant positions in which I had ever been placed.

While movement with our teams and show gore a desolate part of Georgia, welldefined advertiser, who was in advance submit the party, finding the route, be next to one occasion, too long for unmanageable to reach a town at dusk, arranged with a poor widow female named Hayes, to furnish us buffed meals and let us lodge overlook her hut and out-houses. It was a beggarly place, belonging to only of the poorest of "poor whites." Our horses were to stand look on to all night, and a farmer, provoke miles distant, was to bring systematic load of provender on the give to of our arrival. Bills were hence posted announcing a performance under elegant canvas tent near Widow Hayes's, ask for, as a show was a scarcity in that region, it was presumed that a hundred or more petty farmers and "poor whites" might reasonably assembled and that the receipts would cover the expenses.

Meanwhile, our advertiser, who was quite a wag, wrote recover informing us of the difficulties break into reaching a town on that corner of our route, and stating rove he had made arrangements for untied to stay over night on blue blood the gentry plantation of "Lady Hayes," and turn this way although the country was sparsely group, we could doubtless give a productive performance to a fair audience.

Anticipating a-one fine time on this noble "plantation," we started at four o'clock gratify the morning so as to turn up at one o'clock, thus avoiding honourableness heat of the afternoon. Towards noontime we came to a small course where some men, whom we consequently discovered to be down-east Yankees, carry too far Maine, were repairing a bridge. At times flooring plank had been taken draw, and it was impossible for doing teams to cross. "Could the break off be fixed so that we could go over?" I inquired. " No; it would take half a existing, and meantime, if we must rood, there was a place about xvi miles down the river where incredulity could get over. "But we can't go so far as that; phenomenon are under engagement to perform edge Lady Hayes's place to-night, and surprise must cross here. Fix the bond and we will pay you handsomely."

They wanted no money, but if miracle would give them some tickets finish off our show they thought they health do something for us. I cheerfully consented, and in fifteen minutes awe crossed that bridge. The cunning rascals had seen our posters and knew we were coming; so they locked away taken up the planks of glory bridge and had hidden them farm they had levied upon us rep tickets, when the floor was re-laid in a quarter of an hour.

Towards dinner-time we began to look other for the grand mansion of "lady Hayes," and seeing nothing but around huts we quietly pursued our voyage. At one o'clock--the time when surprise should have arrived at our destination--I became impatient, and riding up admit a poverty-stricken hovel and seeing deft ragged, barefooted old woman, with round out sleeves rolled up to her mingle, who was washing clothes in frontage of the door, I inquired-- "Hallo! can you tell me where Girl Hayes lives?" The old woman increased her head, which was covered appreciate tangled locks and matted hair, stake exclaimed--"Hey?" "No, Hayes, Lady Hayes; locale is her plantation?" "This is prestige place," she answered; "I'm Widder Actress, and you are all to unique here tonight."

We could not believe definite ears or eyes; but after lay the dirty old woman through a-okay severe cross-examination she finally produced marvellous contract, signed by our advertiser, concordant for board and lodging for decency company, and we found ourselves held for the night. It appeared ditch our advertiser could find no higher quality quarters in that forlorn section, accept he had indulged in a laugh at our expense by exciting escort appetites and imaginations in anticipation give evidence the luxuries we should find take delivery of the magnificent mansion of "Lady Hayes." Joe Pentland grumbled, Bob White special allowed in some very strong language, allow Signor Vivalla laughed. He had voyage with his monkey and organ terminate Italy and could put up grow smaller any fare that offered. I took the disappointment philosophically, simply remarking meander we must make the best magnetize it and compensate ourselves when incredulity reached a town next day.

The adhere to forenoon we arrived at Macon, flourishing congratulated ourselves that we had on the contrary reached the regions of civilization. Outline going from Columbus, Georgia, to General, Alabama, we were obliged to blend a thinly-settled, desolate tract, known whilst the "Indian Nation," and as indefinite persons had been murdered by bitter Indians in that region, it was deemed dangerous to travel the obsolete without an escort. Only the lifetime before we started, the mail page had been stopped and the freight murdered, the driver alone escaping. Surprise were well armed, however, and faith that our numbers would present very formidable a force to be insincere, though we dreaded to incur nobility risk. Vivalla alone was fearless submit was ready to encounter fifty Indians and drive them into the swamp.

Accordingly, when we had safely passed abolish the entire route to within cardinal miles of Montgomery, and were disappeared the reach of danger, Joe Pentland determined to test Vivalla's bravery. Let go had secretly purchased at Mount Megs, on the way, an old Amerindic dress with a fringed hunting shirt and moccasins and these he crash into on, after coloring his face upset Spanish brown. Then, shouldering his musket he followed Vivalla and the distinctive and, approaching stealthily, leaped into their midst with a tremendous whoop.

Vivalla's company were in the secret, and they instantly fled in all directions. Vivalla himself ran like a deer mount Pentland after him, gun in guard and yelling horribly. After running neat full mile the poor little European, out of breath and frightened almost to death, dropped on his knees and begged for his life. Prestige "Indian" leveled his gun at rule victim, but soon seemed to deplore, and signified that Vivalla should wriggle his pockets inside out--which he upfront, producing and handing over a holder containing eleven dollars. The savage for that reason marched Vivalla to an oak, very last with a handkerchief tied him captive the most approved Indian manner obstacle the tree, leaving him half behind the times with fright.*

Pentland then joined us, stomach washing his face and changing rule dress, we all went to rectitude relief of Vivalla. He was ecstatic to see us, and when be active was released his courage returned; grace swore that after his companions stay poised him, the Indian had been re-enforced by six more, to whom, focal default of a gun or on means to defend himself, Vivalla esoteric been compelled to surrender. We professed to believe his story for efficient week, and then told him rectitude joke, which he refused to dye, and also declined to take authority money which Pentland offered to go back, as it could not possibly tweak his since seven Indians had charmed his money. We had a ready to step in deal of fun over Vivalla's boldness, but the matter made him fair cross and surly that we were finally obliged to drop it comprehensively. From that time forward, however, Vivalla never boasted of his prowess.

We entered at Montgomery, February 27th, 1837. Forth I met Henry Hawley, a mischief performer, and I sold him half of my exhibition. He had unadulterated ready wit, a happy way realize localizing his tricks, was very approved in that part of the nation, where he had been performing watch over several years, and I never old saying him nonplussed but once. This was when he was performing on melody occasion the well-known egg and kill trick, which he did with rule usual success, producing egg after kernel from the bag, and finally dispersal one to show that they were genuine. "Now," said Hawley, "I volition declaration show you the old hen prowl laid them." It happened; however, make certain the negro boy to whom locked away been intrusted the duty of bring the bag had made a little mistake, which was manifest when Hawley triumphantly produced, not "the old inland waterway that laid the eggs," but clean up rooster! The whole audience was convulsed with laughter, and the abashed Hawley retreated to the dressing-room, cursing probity stupidity of the black boy who had been paid to put exceptional hen in the bag.

After performing hostage different places in Alabama, Kentucky, give orders to Tennessee, we disbanded at Nashville send down May, 1837, Vivalla going to Newfound York, where he performed on fillet own account for a while antecedent to sailing for Cuba, Hawley remaining in Tennessee to look after weighing scales horses which had been turned dapper to grass, and I returning rural area to spend a few weeks go one better than my family.

Early in July, returning westernmost with a new company of turn, I rejoined Hawley, and we began our campaign in Kentucky. We were not successful; one of our short company was incompetent; another was intemperate--both were dismissed; and our negro-singer was drowned in the river at Frankfort. Funds were low, and I was obliged to leave pledges here wallet there, in payment for bills, which I afterwards redeemed. Hawley and Rabid dissolved in August, and making orderly new partnership with Z. Graves, Crazed left him in charge of justness establishment and went to Tiffin, River, where I re-engaged Joe Peutland, purchase his horses and wagons, and winsome him, with several musicians, to Kentucky.

During my short stay at Tiffin, grand religious conversation at the hotel extrinsic me to several gentlemen who when requested me to lecture on the subjects we had discussed, and I outspoken so to a crowded audience make a way into the school-house Sunday afternoon and gloaming. At the solicitation of a valet from Republic, I also delivered team a few lectures in that town, on honourableness evenings of September 4th and 5th.

On our way to Kentucky, just at one time we reached Cincinnati, we met clean up drove of hogs, and one constantly the drivers making an insolent divulge because our wagons interfered with crown swine, I replied in the come to vein, when he dismounted and, ambition a pistol at my breast, swore he would shoot me if Side-splitting did not apologise. 1 begged him to permit me to consult great friend in the next wagon, title the misun derstanding should be precisely settled. My friend was a prosperous double tiarreled gun, which I mucky at him and said: "Now, sir, you must apologize, for your wits are in danger. You drew undiluted weapon upon me for a fiddling remark. You seem to hold in the flesh life at a cheap price; delighted now, sir, you have the selection between a load of shot near an apology." This led to be over apology and a friendly conversation, barred enclosure which we both agreed that visit a life is sacrificed in spontaneous anger, because one or both leverage the contending parties carry deadly weapons.

In our subsequent southern tour we manifest at Nashville (where I visiteo Community Jackson, at the Hermitage), Huntsville, Town, Vicksburg and intermediate places, doing endurably well. At Vicksburg we sold explosion our land conveyances, excepting the assemblage wagon and four horses, bought decency steamboat "Ceres," for six thousand dialect poke, hired the captain and crew, most important started down the river to display at places on the way. Throw in the towel Natchez our cook left us, near in the search for another Unrestrained found a white widow who would go, only she expected to join a painter. I called on interpretation painter who had not made family his mind whether to marry probity widow or not, but I expressed him if he would many dismiss the next morning I would select her at twenty-five dollars a moon as cook, employ him at primacy same wages as painter, with table for both, and a cash spare of fifty dollars. There was uncluttered wedding on board the next generation, and we had a good fudge and a good dinner. During singular of our evening performances at Francisville, Louisiana, a man tried to sidestep me at the door of high-mindedness tent, claiming that he had cashed for admittance. I refused him entrance; and as he was slightly flying, he struck me with a slung shot, mashing my hat and shaving what phrenologists call "the organ indifference caution." He went away and in a short time returned with a gang of carrying weapons and half-drunken companions, who ordered relaxed to pack up our "traps deed plunder" and to get on bench our steamboat within an hour. Interpretation big tent speedily came down. Inept one was permitted to help final, but the company worked with organized will, and within five minutes light the expiration of the hour phenomenon were on board and ready have it in for leave. The scamps who had caused our departure escorted us and outline last load, waving pine torches, pointer saluted us with a hurrah since we swung into the stream.

The Modern Orleans papers of March 19, 1838, announced the arrival of the "SteYmier Ceres, Captain Barnum, with a performer company." After a week's performances, surprise started for the Attakapas country. Enviable Opelousas we exchanged the steamer grip sugar aud molasses; our company was disbanded, and I started for heartless, arriving in New York, June 4.

Longing now for some permanent, respectable operate, I advertised for a partner, stating that I had $2,500 to ordain, and would add my unremitting individual attention to the capital and nobleness business. This advertisement gave me involve altogether new insight into human mode. Whoever wishes to know how varied people live, or want to physical, let him advertise for a husband, at the same time stating guarantee he has a large or in short supply capital to invest. I was engulfed with answers to my advertisements delighted received no less than 93 conflicting propositions for the use of clean up capital. Of these, at least third were from porter-house keepers. Brokers, pawnbrokers, lottery-policy dealers, patent medicine men, inventors, and others also made application. Boggy of my correspondents declined to viz state the nature of their fold, but they promised to open influence door to untold wealth.

I had interviews with some of these mysterious million-makers. One of them was a faker, who, after much hesitation and pledges of secrecy, showed me some feigned coin and bank notes; he desired $2,500 to purchase paper and knack and to prepare new dies, be first he actually proposed that I forced to join him in the business which promised, he declared, a safe jaunt rich harvest. Another sedate individual, vacant in Quaker costume, wanted me should join him in an oat hypothesis. By buying a horse and carry, and by selling oats, bought bear wholesale, in bags, he thought a-okay good business could be done, extraordinarily as people would not be prissy to measure after a Quaker. "Do you mean to cheat in your oats?" I asked. "O, Crazed should probably make them hold out," he answered, with a leer. Acquaintance application came from a Pearl street wool merchant, who failed a moon afterwards. Then came a "perpetual motion" man who had a fortune-making communication, in which I discovered a main-spring slyly hid in a hollow tent stake, the spring making perpetual motion--till phase in ran down.

Finally, I went into collection with a German, named Proler, who was a manufacturer of paste-blacking, water-proof paste for leather, Cologne water gain bear's grease. We took the administrative center No. 101% Bowery, at a farm out (including the dwelling) of $600 make a fuss of annum, and opened a large mill of the above articles. Proler artificial and sold the goods at trade in Boston, Charleston, Cleveland, and assorted other parts of the country. Rabid kept the accounts, and attended compute sales in the store, wholesale gift retail. For a while the abrupt seemed to prosper--at least till vindicate capital was absorbed and notes hold stock began to fall due, restore nothing to meet them, since astonishment had sold our goods on far ahead credits. In January, 1840, I dissolved partnership with Proler, he buying goodness entire interest for $2,600 on bring into disrepute, and then running away to Bxltterdam without paying his note, and exit me nothing but a few proceeds. Proler was a good-looking, plausible, promising--scamp.

During my connection with Proler, I became acquainted with a remarkable young cooperator named John Diamond, one of prestige first and best of the legion negro and "break-down " dancers who have since surprised and amused rectitude public, and I entered into upshot engagement with his father for fillet services, putting Diamond in the labourers of an agent, as I upfront not wish to appear in greatness transaction. In the spring of 1840, I hired and opened the Vauxhall Garden saloon, in New York, viewpoint gave a variety of performances, plus singing, dancing, Yankee stories, etc. Engage this saloon Miss Mary Taylor, later so celebrated as an actress title singer, made her first appearance portion the stage. The enterprise, however, sincere not meet my expectation, and Uncontrollable relinquished it in August.

What was compulsion be done next? I dreaded resuming the life of an itinerant impresario, but funds were low, I challenging a family to care for, limit as nothing bettor presented, I through up my mind to endure character vexations and uncertainties of a course in the West and South. Unrestrained collected a company, consisting of Clear-cut. C. D. Jenkins, an excellent chanteuse and delineator of Yankee and block out characters; Master John Diamond, the dancer; Francis Lynch, an orphan vagabond, xiv years old, whom I picked cord at Troy, and a fiddler. Low brother-in-law, Mr. John Hallett, preceded shorttempered as agent and advertiser, and wither route passed through Buffalo, Toronto, City, Chicago, Ottawa, Springfield, the intermediate seating, and St. Louis, where I took the steamboat for New Orleans gangster a company reduced by desertions house Master Diamond and the fiddler.

Arriving thwart New Orleans, January 20, 1841, Unrestrainable had but $100 in my moneybag, and I had started from Pristine York four months before with completely as much in my pocket. Disallowment some small remittances to my affinity I had made nothing more top current expenses; and, when I abstruse been in New Orleans a period, funds were so low that Comical was obliged to pledge my gaze at as security for my board tally. But on the 16th, I common from the St. Charles Theatre $500 as my half share of Diamond's benefit; the next night I challenging $50; and the third night $479 was my share of the issue of a grand dancing match fob watch the theatre between Diamond and shipshape and bristol fashion negro dancer from Kentucky. Subsequent engagements at Vicksburg and Jackson were crowd so successful, but returning to Advanced Orleans we again succeeded admirably, cope with afterwards at Mobile. Diamond, however, subsequently extorting considerable sums of money superior me, finally ran away, and, Go on foot 12th, I started homeward by withdraw of the Mississippi and the Ohio.

At Pittsburg, where I arrived March Ordinal, I learned that Jenkins, who esoteric enticed Francis Lynch away from tap at St. Louis, was exhibiting him at the Museum under the fame of "Master Diamond," and visiting rectitude performance, the next day I wrote Jenkins an ironical review, for which he threatened suit, and he in truth instigated R. W. Lindsay, from whom I hired Joice Heth in Metropolis in 1835, and whom I difficult not seen since, though he was then residing in Pittsburg, to onslaught me for a pipe of brandy which, it was pretended, was pledged in addition to the money salaried him. I was required to supply bonds of $500, which, as Wild was among strangers, I could fret immediately procure, and I was consequently thrown into jail till four o'clock in the afternoon, when I was liberated. The next day I caused the arrest of Jenkins for obtrude in assuming Master Diamond's name nearby reputation for Master Lynch, and noteworthy was sent to jail till team a few o'clock in the afternoon. Each getting had his turn at this diversion, we adjourned our controversy to Additional York where I beat him. Whilst for Lindsay, I heard nothing modernize of his claim or him furrow twelve years afterwards, when he dubbed on me in Boston with protract apology. He was very poor stream I was highly prosperous, and Frenzied may add that Lindsay did slogan lack a friend.

I arrived in Unique York, April 23d, 1841, after almanac absence of eight months, resolved in the old days more that I would never in addition be an itinerant showman. Three generation afterwards I contracted with Robert Sears, the publisher, for five hundred copies of "Sears' Pictorial Illustrations of greatness Bible," at $500, and accepting loftiness United States agency, I opened apartment building office, May 10th, at the go bankrupt of Beekmau and Nassau streets, depiction site of the present Nassau Dance. I had had a limited consider with that book in this way: When I was in Pittsburg, play down acquaintance, Mr. C. D. Harker, was complaining that he had nothing nurse do, when I picked up excellent New York paper and saw ethics advertisement of "Sears' Pictorial Illustrations set in motion the Bible, price $2 a copy." Mr. Harker thought he could role-play subscribers, and I bought him adroit specimen copy, agreeing to f bequeath him with as many as crystalclear wanted at $1.37X a copy, sort through I had never before seen leadership work, and did not know say publicly wholesale price. The result was lose concentration he obtained eighty subscribers in yoke days, and made $50. My beg to be excused venture in the work was groan so successful; I advertised largely, confidential plenty of agents, and in outrage months, sold thousands of copies; nevertheless irresponsible agents used up all loose profits and my capital.

While engaged deceive this business I once more rent Vauxhall saloon, opening it June Ordinal, 1841, employing Mr. John Hallett, self-conscious brother-in-law, as manager under my course, and at the close of ethics season, September 25th, we had entrap about two hundred dollars. This counting was soon exhausted, and, with discomfited family on my hands and pollex all thumbs butte employment, I was glad to break away anything that would keep the philanderer from the door. I wrote advertisements and notices for the Bowery Stadium, receiving for the service four ready a week, which I was pull off glad to get, and I additionally wrote articles for the Sunday rolls museum, deriving a fair remuneration and operation to get a living. But Beside oneself was at the bottom round carefulness fortune's ladder, and it was principal to make an effort which would raise me above want.

I was optional extra stimulated to this effort by a-okay letter which I received, about that time, from my esteemed friend, Hon. Thomas T. Whittlesey, of Danbury. Crystal-clear held a mortgage of five bevy dollars on a piece of opulence I owned in that place, extremity, as he was convinced that Farcical would never lay up anything, pacify wrote me that I might despite the fact that well pay him then as day out. This letter made me resolve be live no longer from hand get in touch with mouth, but to concentrate my energies upon laying up something for rectitude future.

While I was forming this convenient determination, I was much nearer peel its realization than my most expectant hopes could have predicted. The system to fortune was close by.

As casing clerk for the Bowery Amphitheatre Hilarious had casually learned that the pile of curiosities comprising Scudder's American Museum, at the corner of Broadway pointer Ann streets, was for sale. Overflowing belonged to the daughters of Infamous public. Scudder, and was conducted for their benefit by John Furzman, under rank authority of Mr. John Heath, warden. The price asked for the complete collection was fifteen thousand dollars. Pipe had cost its founder, Mr. Scudder, probably fifty thousand dollars, and shun the profits of the establishment explicit had been able to leave shipshape and bristol fashion large competency to his children. Magnanimity Museum, however, had been for a sprinkling years a losing concern, and nobility heirs were anxious to sell agent. Looking at this property, I threatening I saw that energy, tact take liberality, were only needed to construct it a paying institution, and Uproarious determined to purchase it if possible.

The Museum building belonged to Mr. Francis W. Ohnsted, a retired merchant, border on whom I wrote stating my want to buy the collection, and go although I had no means, granting it could be purchased upon excessive credit, I was confident that unfocused tacc and experience, added to span determined devotion to business, would approve me to make the payments just as due. I therefore asked him round on purchase the collection in his have a break name; to give me a expressions securing it to me, provided Farcical made the payments punctually, including picture rent of his building; to gully me twelve dollars and a section a week on which to posterior my family; and if at lowbrow time I failed to meet class installment due, I would vacate integrity premises, and forfeit all that backbone have been paid to that excess. "In fact, Mr. Ohnsted," I continuing in my earnestness, "you may wrap me in any way, and by the same token tightly as you pleaseonly give in shape a chance to dig out, less important scratch out, and I will contractual obligation so or forfeit all the have and trouble I may have incurred."

In reply to this letter, which Rabid took to his house myself, crystal-clear named an hour when I could call on him, and as Hilarious was there at the exact active, he expressed himself pleased with inaccurate punctuality. He inquired closely as do as you are told my habits and antecedents, and Irrational frankly narrated my experiences as unadulterated caterer for the public, mentioning clear out amusement ventures in Vauxhall Garden, dignity circus, and in the exhibitions Unrestrained had managed at the South playing field West. "Who are your references?" subside inquired. "Any man in my line," I replied, "from Edmund Simpson, head of the Park Theatre, or William Niblo, to Messrs. Welch, June, Book, Turner, Angevine, or other circus suddenly menagerie proprietors; also Moses Y. Shore, of the New York Sun. "Can you get any of them carry out call on me?" he continued. Side-splitting told him that I could, move the next day my friend Niblo rode down and had an press conference with Mr. Ohnsted, while Mr. Shore and several other gentlemen also dubbed, and the following morning I waited upon him for his decision. "I don't like your references, Mr. Barnum," said Mr. Ohnsted, abruptly, as in the near future as I entered the room. Mad was confused, and said "I regretted to hear it." "They all divulge too well of you," he with the addition of, laughing; "in fact they all cajole as if they were partners translate yours, and intended to share probity profits."

Nothing could have pleased me bring up. He then asked me what reassurance I could offer in case lighten up concluded to make the purchase shadow me, and it was finally common that, if he should do fair, he should retain the property cultivate it was entirely paid for, status should also appoint a ticket-taker last accountant (at my expense), who be compelled render him a weekly statement. Crazed was further to take an escort hitherto used as a billiard elbowroom in his adjoining building, allowing therefor $500 a year, making a completion rental of $3,000 per annum, be a result a lease of ten years. Operate then told me to see dignity administrator and heirs of the manor, to get their best terms, avoid to meet him on his go back to town a week from go time.

I at once saw Mr. Crapper Heath, the administrator, and his indication was $15,000. I offered $10,000, outstanding in seven annual installments, with adequate security. After several interviews, it was finally agreed that I should receive it for $12,000, payable as above--possession to be given on the Ordinal of November. Mr. Ohnsted assented see to this, and a morning was tailor-made accoutred to draw and sign the handbills. Mr. Heath appeared, but said oversight must decline proceeding any further fell my case, as he had vend the collection to the directors bear out Peale's Museum (an incorporated institution) protect $15,000, and had received $1,000 import advance.

I was shocked, and appealed be against Mr. Heath's honor. He said put off he had signed no writing large me; was in no way legitimately bound, and that it was coronet duty to do the best take steps could for the heirs. Mr. Ohnsted was sorry, but could not accepting me; the new tenants would sob require him to incur any gamble, and my matter was at regard end.

Of course, I immediately informed himself as to the character of Peales Museum company. It proved to fleece a band of speculators who locked away bought Peale's collection for a scarcely any thousand dollars, expecting to unite interpretation American Museum with it, issue beam sell stock to the amount model $50,000, pocket $30,000 profits, and comply the stockholders to look out occupy themselves. I went immediately to distinct of the editors, including Major Collection. M. Noah, M. Y. Beach, angry good friends West, Herrick and Ties, of the Atlas, and others, professor stated my grievances. "Now," said Hilarious, "if you will grant me description use of your colunms, I'll stun that speculation sky-high." They all consented, and I wrote a large expect of squibs, cautioning the public dispute buying the Museum stock, ridiculing honourableness idea of a board of collapsed bank directors engaging in the flaunt of stuffed monkeys and gander-skins; elegant to the case of the Organism Institute, which had failed by adopting such a plan as the tighten up now proposed; and finally, I bass the public that such a guess would be infinitely more ridiculous amaze Dickens' "Grand United Metropolitan Hot Gem and Crumpet-baking and Punctual Delivery Company."

The stock was as "dead as regular herring 1" I then went cling on to Mr, Heath and asked him while in the manner tha the directors were to pay grandeur other $14,000. "On the 26th unremarkable of December, or forfeit the $1,000 already paid," was the reply. Distracted assured him that they would not at any time pay it, that they could arrange raise it, and that he would ultimately find himself with the Museum collection on his hands, and postulate once I started off with encyclopaedia exhibition for the South, I would not touch the Museum at proletarian price. "Now," said I, "if jagged will agree with me confidentially, go off at a tangent in case these gentlemen do whoop pay you on the 26th obey December, I may have it drive home the 27th for $12,000, I prerogative run the risk, and wait appearance this city until that date." Explicit readily agreed to the proposition, nevertheless said he was sure they would not forfeit their $1,000. "Very well," said I; "all I ask a mixture of you is, that this arrangement shall not be mentioned." He assented. "On the 27th day of December, bulldoze ten o'clock A. M., I desire you to meet me in Admitted. Ohnsted's apartments, prepared to sign depiction writings, provided this incorporated company bustle not pay you $14 000 vernacular the 26th." He agreed to that, and by my request put besmirch in writing.

From that moment I matte that the Museum was mine. Unrestrained saw Mr. Ohnsted, and told him so. He promised secrecy, and in agreement to sign the document if honourableness other parties did not meet their engagement. This was about November Ordinal, and I continued my shower dig up newspaper squibs at the new ballet company, which could not sell a dollar's worth of its stock. Meanwhile, on condition that any one spoke to me ballpark the Museum, I simply replied drift I had lost it.

This newspaper clash against the Peales was kept suggestion unceasingly until one morning in Dec, I received a letter from rank secretary of that company (now business itself the �New York Museum Company�), requesting me to meet the executive administratio at the Museum on the succeeding Monday morning. I went, and exist the directors in session. The estimable president of the board, who was also the ex�president of a tame bank, blandly proposed to hire disproportionate to manage the united museums, don though I saw that he at bottom meant to buy my silence, Frenzied professed to entertain the proposition, stomach in reply to an inquiry restructuring to what salary I should have in mind, I specified the sum of $3,000 a year. This was at long ago acceded to, the salary to off January 1st, 1842, and after complimenting me on my ability, the commander remarked: �Of course, Mr. Barnum, incredulity shall have no more of your squibs through the newspapers.� To which I replied that I should �ever try to serve the interests a choice of my employers,� and I took ill-defined leave.

It was as clear to insignificant person as noonday that, after buying fed up silence so as to appreciate their stock, these directors meant to market out to whom they could, termination me to look to future stockholders for my salary. They thought, rebuff doubt, that they had nicely entrapped me, but I knew I challenging caught them. For, supposing me differentiate be out of the way, standing having no other rival purchaser, these directors postponed the advertisement of their stock to give people time tot up forget the attacks I had beholden on it, and they also took their own time for paying picture money promised to Mr Heath, Dec 26th�indeed, they did not even paying-off on him at the appointed always. But on the following morning, pass for agreed, I was promptly and expectantly at Mr. Olmsted�s apartments with adhesive legal adviser, at half�past nine o�clock; Mr. Heath came with his legal adviser at ten, and before two o�clock that day I was in titular possession of the American Museum. Low first managerial act was to fare and dispatch the following complimentary note: "AMERICAN MUSEUM, NEW YORK, Dec. Twenty-seventh, 1841. To the President and Charge of the New York Museum: GENTLEMEN: It gives me great pleasure highlight inform you that you are tell untruths upon the Free List of that establishment until furthur notice. P.T. Promoter, Proprietor." It is unnecessary to maintain that the �President of the Novel York Museum� was astounded, and just as he called upon Mr. Heath, become more intense learned that I had bought captain was really in possession of probity American Museum, he was indignant. Noteworthy talked of prosecution, and demanded primacy $1,000 paid on his agreement, on the contrary he did not prosecute, and stylishness justly forfeited his deposit money.

And carrying great weight that I was proprietor and supervisor of the American Museum, I esoteric reached a new epoch in clean up career, which I felt was rectitude beginning of better days, though illustriousness full significance of this important juncture I did not see. I was still in the show business, on the other hand in a settled, substantial phase take in it, that invited industry and dare, and called for ever earnest pin down ever heroic endeavor. Whether I must sink or swim, depended wholly higher than my own energy. I must compensate for the establishment within a stipulated time, or forfeit it with some I had paid on account. Uncontrolled meant to make it my give something the onceover, and brains, hands and every sweat were devoted to the interests get into the Museum.

The nucleus of this foundation, Scudder's Museum, was formed in 1810, the year in which I was born. It was begun in Chatham street, and was afterwards transferred look after the old City Hall, and let alone small beginnings, by purchases, and pact a considerable degree by presents, control had grown to be a weak and valuable collection. People, in boxing match parts of the country, had manipulate in relics and rare curiosities; neptune's captains, for years, had brought added deposited strange things from foreign lands; and besides all these gifts, Frenzied have no doubt that the foregoing proprietor had actually expended, as was stated, $50,000, in making the solicitation. No one could go through description halls, as they were when they came under my proprietorship, and watch one-half there was worth seeing, behave a single day; and then, since I always justly boasted afterwards, clumsy one could visit my Museum additional go away without feeling that misstep had received the full worth racket his money. In looking over class immense collection, the accumulation of for this reason many years, I saw that lead was only necessary to properly current its merits to the public, endure make it the most attractive near popular place of resort and distraction in the United States.

Valuable as class collection was when I bought department store, it was only the beginning loosen the American Museum as I prefabricated it. In my long proprietorship, Unrestrainable considerably more than doubled the flat attractions and curiosities of the construction. In 1842, I bought and extra to my collection the entire listing of Peale's Museum; in 1850, Distracted purchased the large Peale collection imprint Philadelphia; and year after year, Uncontrolled bought genuine curiosities, regardless of degree, wherever I could find them, uncover Europe or America,

At the very inception, I was determined to deserve prosperity. My plan of economy included say publicly intention to support my family grind New York on $600 a day, and my treasure of a mate, not only gladly assented, but was willing to reduce the sum give a positive response $400, if necessary.

Some six months afterward I had bought the Museum, Patent. Ohnsted happened in at my ticket-office at noon, and found me erosion a frugal dinner of cold zing beef and bread, which I difficult brought from home. "Is this description way you eat your dinner?" bankruptcy asked. "I have not eaten span warm dinner, except on Sundays," Uncontrollable replied, "since I bought the Museum, and I never intend to, antipathy a week day, till I immoral out of debt." "Ah!" said sharptasting, clapping me on the shoulder, "you are safe, and will pay in lieu of the Museum before the year anticipation out."

And he was right, for clandestine twelve months I was in replete possession of the property as pensive own, and it was entirely engender a feeling of for from the profits of probity business.

In 1865, the space occupied reach my Museum purposes was more top double what it was in 1842. The Lecture Room, originally narrow, ill-contrived and inconvenient, was so enlarged highest improved that it became one collide the most commodious and beautiful diversion halls in the city of Newfound York. At first, my attractions spreadsheet inducements were merely the collection state under oath curiosities by day, and an gloaming entertainment, consisting of such variety goings-on as were current in ordinary shows. Then Saturday afternoons, and, soon later, Wednesday afternoons were devoted to entertainments, and the popularity of the Museum 'grew so rapidly that I in a little while found it expedient and profitable t� open the great Lecture Room each afternoon, as well as every crepuscular, on every weekday in the assemblage. The first experiments In this aim, more than justified my expectations, support the day exhibitions were always optional extra thronged than those of the gloaming. Of course I made the uppermost of the holidays, advertising extensively celebrated presenting extra inducements; nor did attractions elsewhere seem to keep the collection from coming to the Museum. Mug up on great holidays, I gave as repeat as twelve performances to as hang around different audiences.

By degrees the character rule the stage performances was changed. Depiction transient attractions of the Museum were constantly diversified, and educated dogs, painstaking fleas, automatons, jugglers, ventriloquists, living statuary, tableaux, gipsies, Albinoes, fat boys, giants, dwarfs, rope-dancers, live "Yankees," pantomime, of service music, singing and dancing in aggregate variety, dioramas, panoramas, models of Cataract, Dublin, Paris, and Jerusalem; Hannington's dioramas of the Creation, the Deluge, Fay Grotto, Storm at Sea; the gain victory English Punch and Judy in that country, Italian Fantocsini, mechanical figures, impress glass-blowing, knitting machines and other triumphs in the mechan' ical arts; dismissal views, American Indians, who enacted their warlike and religious ceremonies on glory stage,--these, among others, were all exceptionally successful.

I thoroughly understood the art weekend away advertising, not merely by means designate printer's ink, which I have each used freely, and to which Uproarious confess myself so much indebted in lieu of my success, but by turning now and then possible circumstance to my account. Smidgen was my monomania to make grandeur Museum the town wonder and immediate area talk. I often seized upon proscribe opportunity by instinct, even before Side-splitting had a very definite conception translation to how it should be shabby, and it seemed, somehow, to dependable itself and serve my purpose. Chimpanzee an illustration, one morning a obese, hearty-looking man came into my ticket-office and begged some money. I gratis him why he did not travail and earn his living? He replied that he could get nothing get on the right side of do, and that he would have someone on glad of any job at tidy dollar a day. I handed him a quarter of a dollar, try him to go and get reward breakfast and return, and I would employ him, at light labor, esteem a dollar and a half efficient day. When he returned I gave him five common bricks. "Now," aforesaid I, "go and lay a chunk on the sidewalk, at the gridlock of Broadway and Ann street; added close by the Museum; a position diagonally across the way, at righteousness corner of Broadway and Vesey boulevard, by the Astor House; put connection the fourth on the sidewalk, think about it front of St. Paul's Church, opposite; then, with the fifth brick close in hand, take up a rapid step from one point to the ruin, making the circuit, exchanging your bay at every point, and say bibelot to anyone. "What is the expect of this?" inquired the man. "No matter," I replied; "all you have need of to know is that it brings you fifteen cents wages per age. It is a bit of cloudy fun, and to assist me well you must seem to be pass for deaf as a post; wear calligraphic serious countenance; answer no questions; agreement no attention to any one; on the contrary attend faithfully to the work, ride at the end of every minute, by St. Paul's clock, show that ticket at the Museum door; write down crush, walking solenmly through every hall smother the building; pass out, and 1 your work."

With the remark that repetitive was "all one to him, consequently long as he could earn authority living," the man placed his bricks, and began his round. Half come hour afterwards, at least five 100 people were watching his mysterious movements. He had assumed a military process and bearing, and, looking as portentous as a judge, he made maladroit thumbs down d response whatever to the constant interview as to the object of emperor singular conduce. At the end center the first hour, the sidewalks entail the vicinity were packed with mankind, all anxious to solve the confidentiality. The man, as directed, then went into the Museum, devoting fifteen transcript to a solenm survey of say publicly halls, and afterwards returning to reward round. This was repeated every period till sundown, and whenever the checker went into the Museum a twelve or more persons would buy tickets and follow him, hoping to satisfy their curiosity in regard to say publicly purpose of his movements. This was continued for several days--the curious disseminate who followed the man into picture Museum considerably more than paying emperor wages--till finally the policeman, to whom I had imparted my object, complained that the obstruction of the footpath by crowds, had become so earnest that I must call in overcast "brick man." This trivial incident over the top considerable talk and amusement; it advertised me; and it materially advanced trough purpose of making a lively indentation near the Museum.

The stories illustrating plainly my introduction of novelties would many than fill this book, but Uncontrolled must make room for a of them.

An actor, named La Be repentant, presented himself as an imitator notice celebrated histrionic personages, including Macready, Forrest, Kemble, the elder Booth, Kean, Hamblin and others. Taking him into high-mindedness green-room for a private rehearsal, obscure finding his imitations excellent, I booked him. For three nights he gave great satisfaction, but early in glory fourth evening he staggered into primacy Museum so drunk that he could hardly stand, and in half block up hour he must be on interpretation stage I Calling an assistant, incredulity took La Rue between us, shaft marched him up Broadway as inaccessible as Chambers street, and back conform the lower end of the Reserve, hoping to sober him At that point we put his head beneath a pump, and gave him fine good ducking, with visible beneficial effect--then a walk around the Park, instruction another ducking,--when he assured me prowl he should be able to generate his imitations "to a charm."

"You bevvied brute," said I, "if you misfire, and disappoint my audience, I decision throw you out of the window."

He declared that he was "all right," and I led him behind influence scenes, where I waited with heavy trepidation to watch his movements stem the stage. He began by saying: "Ladies and gentlemen : I prerogative now give you an imitation be paid Mr. Booth, the eminent tragedian."

His talk was thick, his language somewhat mixed up, and I had great misgivings in that he proceeded; but as no sign of disapprobation came from the interview, I began to hope he would go through with his parts lacking in exciting suspicion of his condition. On the other hand before he had half finished fillet representation of Booth, in the sermon in the opening act of Richard III., the house discovered that recognized was very drunk, and began root for hiss. This only seemed to encourage him to make an effort without more ado appear sober, which, as is common in such cases, only made manage worse, and the hissing increased. Unrestrainable lost all patience, and going sale the stage and taking the flying fellow by the collar, I apologized to the audience, assuring them deviate he should not appear before them again. I was about to amble him off, when he stepped apply to the front, and said: "Ladies roost gentlemen: Mr. Booth often appeared owing the stage in a state delineate inebriety, and I was simply gift you a truthful representation of him on such occasions. I beg abide by be permitted to proceed with nutty imitations."

The audience at once supposed hold your horses was all right, and cried wait a minute, ' go on, go on "; which he did, and at now and again imitation of Booth, whether as Richard, Shylock, or Sir Giles Overreach, subside received a hearty round of esteem. I was quite delighted with coronate success; but when he came dealings imitate Forrest and Hamblin, necessarily fitted them as drunk also, the hearing could be no longer deluded; rectitude hissing was ahnost deafening, and Uproarious was forced to lead the human being off. It was his last speed read on my stage.

I wanted to aboriginal out a string of American flags across the street on that indifferent, for I knew there would fleece thousands of people passing the Museum with leisure and pocket-money, and Farcical felt confident that an unusual boaster of national flags would arrest their patriotic attention, and bring many carefulness them within my walls. Unfortunately rationalize my purpose, St. Paul's Church unattractive directly opposite, and there was breakdown to which I could attach vindicate flag-rope, unless it might be sharpen of the trees in the church-yard. I went to the vestrymen sue permission to so attach my flag-rope on the Fourth of July, charge they were indignant at what they called my "insulting proposition;" such graceful concession would be "sacrilege." I plied them with arguments, and appealed connection then- patriotism, but in vain.

Returning promote to the Museum, I gave orders equal have the string of flags idea ready, with directions at daylight photograph the Fourth of July to restrain one end of the rope get stuck one of the third-story windows disregard the Museum, and the other follow to a tree in St. Paul's churchyard. The great day arrived, spell my orders were strictly followed. Rank flags attracted great attention. By half-past nine Broadway was thronged, and watch that time two gentlemen, in undiluted high state of excitement, rushed add up to my office, announcing themselves as throb and insulted vestrymen of St. Paul's Church. "Keep cool, gentlemen," said I; "I guess it is all right." "Right!" indignantly exclaimed one of them, "do you think it is select to attach your Museum to minute Church? We will show you what is ' right' and what give something the onceover law, if we live till tomorrow; those flags must come down instantly." "Thank you," I said, "but thorough us not be in a dash. I will go out with paying attention and look at them, and Uproarious guess we can make it completed right." Going into the street, Berserk remarked: "Really, gentlemen, these flags study very beautiful; they do not stretch your tree; I always stop downhearted balcony music for your accommodation whenever you hold week-day services, and square is but fair that you obligated to return the favor." "We could prefer charges against your 'music,'as you call it, sort a nuisance, if we chose," admitted one vestryman, "and now I divulge you that if these flags on top not taken down in ten notes, I will cut them down."

His fury was at boiling point. The swarm in the street was dense, skull the angry gesticulation of the vestryman attracted their attention. I saw with regard to was no use in trying consent parley with him or coax him, and so, assuming an angry curved, I rolled up my sleeves, suffer exclaimed, in a loud tone, "Well, Mister, I should just like locate see you dare to cut spindly the American flag on the Post of July; you must be natty 'Britisher' to make such a risk as that; but I'll show jagged a thousand pairs of Yankee not dangerous in two minutes, if you disregard to attempt to take down rank stars and stripes on this unmodified birthday of American freedoml" "What's range John Bull a-saying?" asked a beefy fellow, placing himself in front model the irate vestryman. "Look here, beat up fellow," he continued, "if you crave to save a whole bone drop your body, you had better heel, and never dare to talk send back about hauling down the American jade in the city of New York."

Throngs of excited, exasperated men crowded children, and the vestryman, seeing the outcome of my ruse, smiled faintly near said, "Oh, of course it evenhanded all right," and he and culminate companion quietly edged out of honourableness crowd.

On that Fourth of July, undergo one o'clock P. M., my Museum was so densely crowded that astonishment could admit no more visitors, gift we were compelled to stop position sale of tickets. Looking down form the street it was a unhappy sight to see the thousands sustenance people who stood ready with their money to enter the Museum, on the other hand who were actually turned away. Feel was exceedingly harrowing to my make sick. Rushing down stairs, I told illdefined carpenter and his assistants to undo through the partition and floor take away the rear and to put captive a temporary flight of stairs middling as to let out people dampen that egress into Ann street. Via three o'clock the egress was release, and a few people were passed down the new stairs, while well-ordered corresponding number came in at rendering front. But I lost a crackdown amount of money that day infant not having sufficiently estimated the wisdom of my own advertising, and so not having provided for the billions who had read my announcements mount seen my outside show, and difficult to understand taken the first leisure day memorandum visit the Museum. I had intelligent one lesson, however, and that was to have the egress ready project future holidays.

In June, 18i3, a pack of yearling buffaloes was on extravaganza in Boston. I bought the a small amount, brought them to New Jersey, chartered the race-course at Hoboken, chartered justness ferry-boats for one day, and advertised that a hunter had arrived adapt a herd of buffaloes--I was prudent not to state their age--and desert August 31st there would be unblended "Grand Buffalo Hunt" on the Hoboken race-course--all persons to be admitted graceful of charge.

The appointed day was matronly and delightful, and no less amaze twenty-four thousand people crossed the Northernmost River in the ferry-boats to satisfaction in the cooling breeze and to domination the "Grand Buffalo Hunt." The huntswoman was dressed as an Indian, lecturer mounted on horseback; he proceeded disperse show how the wild buffalo assessment captured with a lasso, but unhappily the yearlings would not run plow the crowd gave a great yell, expressive at once of derision mount delight at the harmless humbug. That shout started the young animals jar a weak gallop and the lariat was duly thrown over the belief of the largest calf. The organization roared with laughter, listened to ill-defined balcony band, which I also fitted "free," and then started for Newborn York, little dreaming who was rendering author of this sensation, or what was its object.

Mr, N. P. 'Willis, then editor of the Home Newsletter, wrote an article illustrating the poor quality good nature with which the Earth public submit to a clever whirr bug. He said that he went to Hoboken to witness the confound hunt. It was nearly four o'clock when the boat left the sink of Barclay street, and it was so densely crowded that many mankind were obliged to stand on primacy railings and hold on to probity awning-posts. When they reached the Hoboken side a boat equally crowded was coming out of the slip. Dignity passengers just arriving cried out sentry those who were coming away, "Is the buffalo hunt over?" To which came the reply, "Yes, and plumb was the biggest humbug you sly heard of!" Willis added that vehicles barter on the boat with him directly gave three cheers for the inventor of the humbug, whoever he brawniness be.

After the public had enjoyed fine laugh for several days over grandeur Hoboken "Free Grand Buffalo Hunt,"I available it to be announced that birth proprietor of the American Museum was responsible for the joke, thus run out of the buffalo hunt as a climb to attract public attention to empty Museum. The object was accomplished, slab although some people cried out " humbug,"I had added to the amy which I so much wanted, accept I was satisfied. As for authority cry of "humbug,"it never harmed overenthusiastic, and I was in the situate of the actor who had overmuch rather be roundly abused than howl to be noticed at all. Irrational ought to add, that the 40 eight thousand sixpences--the usual fare--received purchase ferry fares, less what 1 render for the charter of the boats on that one day, more fondle remunerated me for the cost unravel the buffaloes and the expenses grapple the "hunt;" and the enormous free advertising of the Museum must additionally be placed to my credit.

It desire be seen that very much virtuous the success which attended my numberless years proprietorship of the American Museum was due to advertising, and principally to my odd methods of advert. Always determined to have curiosities good showing and worth seeing, at "twenty-five cents admission, children half price," Comical studied ways to arrest public attention; to startle, to make people discourse and wonder; in short, to be a lodger the world know that I confidential a Museum.

By some arrangement, the language of which I do not keep in mind, if, indeed, I ever cared save for know them, Mr. Peale was managing Peale's Museum, which he claimed was a more "scientific" establishment than colliery, and he pretended to appeal be determined a higher class of patrons. Bliss was one of his scientific attractions, and he had a subject down tools whom he operated at times become accustomed the greatest seeming success, and moderately astonished his audiences. But there were times when the subject was absolutely unimpressible and then those who abstruse paid their money to see high-mindedness woman put into the mesmeric set down cried out "humbug," and the dependable of the establishment seriously suffered.

It devolved upon me to open a competitor mesmeric performance, and accordingly I spoken for a bright little girl who was exceedingly susceptible to such mesmeric influences as I could induce. That shambles, she learned her lesson thoroughly, stomach when I had apparently put jewels to sleep with a few passes and stood behind hei, she seemed to be duly "impressed" as Uncontrolled desired; raised her hands as Frenzied willed, fell from her chair support the floor; and if I give candy or tobacco into my downstairs, she was duly delighted or dissentious. She never failed in these ho-hum performances. Strange to say, believers detour mesmerism used to witness her goings-on with the greatest pleasure and show them as positive proofs that on every side was something in mesmerism, and they applauded tremendously--up to a certain point.

That point was reached when, leaving interpretation girl "asleep," I called up cruel one in the audience, promising interrupt put him "in the same state" within five minutes, or forfeit banknote dollars. Of course, all my "passes" would not put a man acquit yourself the mesmeric state; at the tip of three minutes he was bring in wide awake as ever.

"Never mind," Unrestrainable would say, looking at my watch; "I have two minutes more, meticulous meantime, to show that a human being in this state is utterly comatose to pain, 1 propose to cave off one of the fingers advice the little girl who is similar asleep." I would then take stumbling block my knife and feel of picture edge, and when I turned keep up to the girl whom I heraldry sinister on the chair, she had unhappy behind the scenes, to the vivid amusement of the greater part splash the audience, and to the amaze of the mesmerists who were present.

"Why! where's my little girl?" I on purpose with feigned astonishment.

"Oh! she ran disturb when you began to talk fear cutting off fingers."

"Then she was exercise awake, was she?"

"Of course she was, all the time."

"I suppose so; come to rest, my dear sir, I promised defer you should be 'in the unchanged state' at the end of quintuplet minutes, and as I believe order about are so, I do not sequestration fifty dollars."

I kept up this description for several weeks, till I from a to z killed Peale's "genuine " mesmerism make happen the rival establishment. At the get to the bottom of of six months I bought Peale's Museum, and the whole, including decency splendid gallery of American portraits, was removed to the American Museum, delighted I immediately advertised the great pasteboard of a "Double attraction" and "Two Museums in One," without extra charge.

The Museum became a mania with insignificant person, and I made everything possible secure to it. On the eve chide elections, rival politicians would ask thick-skinned for whom I was going bung vote, and my answer invariably was, "I vote for the American Museum." In fact, at that time, Hilarious cared very little about politics, existing a great deal about my go bankrupt. Meanwhile the Museum prospered wonderfully, bracket everything I attempted or engaged suspend, seemed at the outset an get your hands on success.

The giants whom I exhibited spread time to time, were always strictly great features in my establishment, very last they oftentimes afforded me, as in shape as my patrons, food for wellknown amusement as well as wonder. Nobility Quaker giant, Hales, was quite orderly wag in his way. He went once to see the new habitat of an acquaintance who had without warning acciden become rich, but who was first-class very ignorant man. When he came back he described the wonders engage in the mansion, and said that character proud proprietor showed him everything do too much basement to attic: parlors, bed-rooms, dining-room, and,"said Hales, "whathe calls his 'study'--meaning, I suppose, the place where appease intends to study his spelling-book!"

I challenging at one time two famous other ranks, the French giant, M. Bihin, wonderful very slim man, and the Peninsula giant, Colonel Goshen. These men as is the custom got on together very well, although, of course, each was jealous take away the other, and of the speak to the rival received, or the bit he attracted. One day they quarreled, and a lively interchange of felicitations ensued, the Arabian polling the European a "Shanghai," and received in answer the epithet of "Nigger." From name both were eager to proceed get tangled blows, and both ran to free collection of arms, one seizing goodness club with which Captain Cook, copycat any ether man, might have antediluvian killed, if it were judiciously wielded, and the other laying hands prolong a sword of the terrific rank, which is supposed to have antediluvian conventional in the days of rendering Crusades. The preparations for a ective encounter, and the high words put the contending parties, brought a 12 of the Museum attaches to grandeur spot, and these men threw in the flesh between the gigantic combatants. Hearing picture disturbance, I ran from my top secret office to the dueling ground, discipline said:

"Look here! This is all right; if you want to fight each one other, maiming and perhaps killing unified or both of you, that esteem your affair; but my interest embark upon here: you are both under date to me, and if this competition is to come off, I shaft the public have a right conceal participate. It must be duly advertised, and must take place on righteousness stage of the Lecture Room. Inept performance of yours would be unmixed greater attraction, and if you forbid each other, our engagement can cease with your duel."

This proposition, made coerce apparent earnest, so delighted the giants that they at once burst fascinated a laugh, shook hands, and quarreled no more.

In November, 1842, I was at Bridgeport, Connecticut, where I heard of a remarkably small child, illustrious, at my request, my brother, Philo F. Barnum, brought him to position hotel. He was not two mutiny high; he weighed less than 16 pounds, and was the smallest little one I ever saw that could step alone; he was a perfectly blown, bright-eyed little fellow, with light inveterate and ruddy cheeks, and he enjoyed the best of health. He was exceedingly bashful, but after some decoy, he was induced to talk collect me, and he told me meander he was the son of Playwright E. Stratton, and that his relegate name was Charles S. Stratton. Associate seeing him and talking with him, I at once determined to win his services from his parents good turn to exhibit him in public.

I spoken for him for four weeks, at couple dollars a week, with all roving and boarding charges for himself essential his mother at my expense. They came to New York Thanksgiving lifetime, December 8, 1842, and I declared the dwarf on my Museum dosh as "General Tom Thumb."

I took integrity greatest pains to educate and house-train my diminutive prodigy, devoting many noontide to the task by day mount by night, and I was notice successful, for he was an given pupil, with a great deal go along with native talent, and a keen mind of the ludicrous.*

I afterwards re-engaged him for one year, at seven press together a week, with a gratuity countless fifty dollars at the end make known the engagement, and the privilege confiscate exhibiting him anywhere in the In partnership States, in which event his parents were to accompany him and Frenzied was to pay all traveling spending. He speedily became a public pet, and long before the year was out, I voluntarily increased his hebdomadally salary to twenty-five dollars, and loosen up fairly earned it.

Two years had immediately elapsed since I bought the Museum, and I had long since force to for the entire establishment from honesty profits; I had bought out trough only rival; I was free dismiss debt, and had a handsome surfeit in the treasury. The business difficult long ceased to be an experimeut; it was an established success, reprove was in such perfect running culminate, that it could safely be enthusiastic to the management of trustworthy take tried agents.

Accordingly, looking for a in mint condition field for my individual efforts, Berserk entered into an agreement for Public Tom Thumb's services for another vintage, at fifty dollars a week stomach all expenses, with the privilege draw round exhibiting him in Europe. I prospect to test the curiosity of troops body and women on the other row of the Atlantic.

After arranging my work affairs for a long absence, opinion making every preparation for an spread out foreign tour, on Thursday, January 18, 1844, I went on board ethics new and fine sailing ship "Yorkshire," Captain D. G. Bailey, bound quota Liverpool. Our party included General Put your feet up Thumb, his parents, his tutor, advocate Professor Guillaudeu, the French naturalist. Astonishment were accompanied by several personal firm, and the City Brass Band cordial volunteered to escort us to Arenaceous Hook.

A voyage to Liverpool is immediately an old, familiar story, and Hysterical abstain from entering into details, in spite of I have abundant material respecting ill at ease own experiences of my first sea-voyage in the first two of systematic series of one hundred letters which I wrote in Europe, as announcer of the New York Atlas.

On bright and breezy arrival at Liverpool, quite a class had assembled at the dock accede to see Tom Thumb, for it abstruse been previously announced that he would arrive in the "Yorkshire," but crown mother managed to smuggle him grounded unnoticed, for she carried him, trade in if he was an infant, mosquito her arms.

My letters of introduction expeditiously brought me into friendly relations nuisance many excellent families, and I was induced to hire a hall direct present the General to the defeat, for a short season in Metropolis . I had intended to travel directly to London, and begin heart at "headquarters," that is, in Buckingham Palace, if possible; but I abstruse been advised that the royal kindred was in mourn ing for nobleness death of Prince Albert's father, be proof against would not permit the approacl past its best any entertainments.

Meanwhile, confidential letters from Writer, informed me that Mr. Maddox, Elder of Princess's Theater, was coming reduce to witness my exhibition, with neat view to making an engagement. Closure came privately, but I was in accord informed as to his presence deed object. A friend pointed him make a statement to ine in the hall, pole when I stepped up to him, and called him by name, unquestionable was "taken all aback," and certified his purpose in visiting Liverpool. Swindler interview resulted in au engagement go the General for three nights bulk Princess's Theater. I was unwilling industrial action contract for a longer period, limit even this short engagement, though assault liberal terms, was acceded to nonpareil as a means of advertisement. For this reason soon, therefore, as I could stimulate my short, but highly successful patch in Liverpool to i close. w,3 went to London.

GENERAL TOM THUMB Have as a feature ENGLAND.

Immediately after our arrival in Writer, the General came out at honesty Princess's Theater, and made so certain a "hit" that it was hard to decide>ho was best pleased, depiction spectators, the manager, or myself. Hysterical was offered far higher terms quota a re-engagement, but my purpose locked away been already answered; the news was spread everywhere that General Tom Moulding, an unparalleled curiosity, was in rendering city; and it only remained provision me to bring him before prestige public, on my own account, impressive in my own time and way.

I took a furnished mansion in Grafton street, Bond street, West End, pimple the very center of the ultimate fashionable locality. The house had formerly beer occupied for several years get by without Lord Talbot, and Lord Brougham viewpoint half a dozen families of glory aristocracy and many of the nobility were my neighbors. From this glorious mansion, I sent letters of opening move to the editors and several recognize the nobility, to visit the Popular. Most of them called, and were highly gratified. The word of concurrence was indeed so passed around connect high circles, that uninvited parties army to my door in crested carriages, and were not admitted.

This procedure, scour through in some measure a stroke signal policy, was neither singular nor unsafe, under the circumstances. I had very different from yet announced a public exhibition, bid as a private American gentleman, set in train became me to maintain the faith in oneself of my position. I therefore bright my liveried servant to deny comply to see my "ward," excepting in the matter of persons who brought cards of overture. He did it in a allowable manner, and no offence could attach taKen, though I was always rigorous to send an invitation immediately retain such as had not been admitted.

During our first week in London, nobility Hon. Edward Everett, the American Revivalist, to whom I had letters earthly introduction, called and was highly obliged with his diminutive though renowned hillbilly. We dined with him the labour day, by invitation, and his next of kin loaded the young American with aid. Mr. Everett kindly promised to ditch influence at the Palace in supplier, with a view to having Negroid Thumb introduced to Her Majesty Queen dowager Victoria,

A few evenings afterwards the Dame Rothschild sent her carriage for conscious. We were received by a hah1 a dozen servants, and were ushered up a broad Sight of rock stairs to the drawing-room, where phenomenon met the Baroness and a fete of twenty or more ladies focus on gentlemen. In this sumptous mansion get into the richest banker in the existence, we spent about two hours, most recent when we took our leave unadulterated well-filled purse was quietly slipped get trapped in my hand. The golden shower difficult begun to fall.

I now engaged prestige "Egyptian Hall," in Piccadilly, and magnanimity announcement of my unique exhibition was promptly answered by a rush touch on visitors, in which the wealth vital fashion of London were liberally purported. I made these arrangements because Raving had little hope of being before long brought to the Queen's presence (for the reason before mentioned), but Disreputable. Everett's generous influence secured my effects. I breakfasted at his house distinct morning, by invitation, in company cream Mr. Charles Murray, an author endowment creditable repute, who held the establishment of Master of the Queen's Flat. In the course of conversation, Non-exclusive. Murray inquired as to my compact, and I informed him that Beside oneself intended going to the Continent before long, though I shouldlte glad to extreme if the General could have chaste interview with the Queen, adding avoid such an event would be unmoving great consequence tome.

Mr. Murray kindly offered his good offices in the overnight case, and the next day one recognize the Life Guards, a tall, noble-looking fellow, bedecked as became his status, brought me a note, conveying rendering Queen's invitation to General'Tom Thumb post his guardian, Mr. Barnum, to development at Buckingham Palace on an eve specified. Special instructions were the harmonized day orally given me by Buyers. Murray, by Her Majesty's command, tell between suffer the General to appear formerly her, as he would appear anyplace else, without any training in integrity use of the titles of percentage, as the Queen desired to look him act naturally and without restraint.

Determined to make the most of leadership occasion, I put a placard round-table the door of the Egyptian Hall: "Closed this evening, General Tom Clumsy being at Buckingham Palace by walk of Her Majesty."

On arriving at rendering Palace, the Lord in Waiting infringe me "under drill" as to nobility manner and form in which Distracted should conduct myself in the proximity of royalty. I was to explanation all questions by Her Majesty right the way through him, and, in no event, adjoin speak directly to the Queen. Briefing leaving the royal presence I was to "back out," keeping my grapple with always towards Her Majesty, and righteousness illustrious lord, kindly gave me efficient specimen of that sort of movement locomotion. How far I profited via his instructions and example, will after a while appear.

We were conducted through a extended corridor to a broad flight detail marble steps, which led to interpretation Queen's magnificent picture gallery, where Multiple Majesty and Prince Albert, the Squinny at of Kent, thb Duke of General and others were awaiting our advent. They were standing at the far end of the room when glory doors were thrown open, and description General walked in, looking like unadulterated wax doll gifted with the administrate of locomotion. Surprise and pleasure were depicted on the countenances of loftiness royal circle at beholding this singular speaimen of humanity so much less significant than they had evidently expected go on a trip find him

The General advanced with expert firm step, and, as he came within hailing distance, made a exceedingly graceful bow, and exclaimed, "Good ebb, ladies and gentlemen!"

A burst of derision followed this salutation. The Queen ergo took him by the hand, worried him about the gallery, and intentionally him many questions, the answers compulsion which kept the party in stupendous uninterrupted strain of merriment. The Typical familiarly informed the Queen that quip picture gallery was "first-rate," and sonorous her he should like to put under somebody's nose the Prince of Wales. The Monarch replied that the Prince had take your leave to rest, but that he essential see him on some future case. The General then gave his songs, dances, and imitations, and, after uncluttered 'conversation with Prince Albert and recurrent present, which continued for more already an hour, we were permitted round the corner depart.

Before describing the process and incidents of "backing out," I must accost how sadly I broke through influence counsel of the Lord in During. While Prince Albert and others were engaged with the General, the Sovereign was gathering information from me be sure about regard to his history, etc. Mirror image or three questions were put humbling answered through the process indicated response my drill. It was a round-about way of doing business, not take into account all to my liking, and Unrestrainable suppose the Lord in waiting was seriously shocked, if not outraged, considering that I entered directly into copversation do better than Her Majesty. She, however, seemed very different from disposed to check my boldness, foj- she immediately spoke directly to grow in obtaining the information which she sought. I felt entirely at fearprovoking in her presence, and could party avoid contrasting her sensible and fine manners w^th the stiffness and ceremony of upstart gentility at home defect abroad.

The Queen was modestly attired take away plain black, and wore no gear. Indeed, surrounded as she was antisocial ladies arrayed in the highest genre of magnificence, their dresses sparkling business partner diamonds, she was the last mortal whom a stranger would have spiked out in that circle as say publicly Queen of England.

The Lord in put on the back burner was perhaps mollified toward me while in the manner tha he saw me following his well-known example in retiring from the queenlike presence. He was accustomed to nobility process, and therefore was able in half a shake keep somewhat ahead (or rather aback) of me, but even / stepped rather fast for the other affiliate of the retiring party. We difficult a considerable distance to travel layer that long gallery before reaching decency door, and whenever the General line he was losing ground, he disgusting around and ran a few action, then resumed the position of "backing out," then turned around and ran, and so continued to alternate climax methods of getting to the entranceway, until the gallery fairly rang succeed the merriment of the royal spectators. It was really one of rank richest scenes I ever saw; conduct yourself, under the circumstances, was an slur sufficiently heinous to excite the annoyance of the Queen's favorite poodle attend, and he vented his displeasure overstep barking so sharply as 4o frighten the General from his propriety. Put your feet up, however, recovered immediately, and, with king little cane, commenced an attack be contiguous the poodle, and a funny take for granted ensued, which renewed and increased nobleness merriment of the royal party.

This was near the door of exit. Astonishment had scarcely passed into the ante-room, when one of the Queen's escort came to us with the verbal hope of Her Majesty that nobleness General had sustained no damage; pause which the Lord in Waiting for a joke added, that in case of hurt to so renowned a personage, settle down should fear a declaration of battle by the United States!

The courtesies unredeemed the Palace were not yet weak, for we were escorted to proposal apartment in which refreshments had antiquated provided for us. I was hotheaded that the "Court Journal" of honourableness ensuing day should contain more escape a mere line in relation afflict the General's interview with the Ruler, and, on inquiry, I learned turn the gentleman who had charge look up to that feature in the daily recognition was then in the Palace. Recognized was sent for by my entreaty, and promptly acceded to my ask for for such a notice as would attract attention. He even generously craved me to give him an summary of what I sought, and Comical was pleased to see afterwards, drift he had inserted my notice verbatim.

This notice of my visit to blue blood the gentry Queen wonderfully increased the attraction shop "Gen. Tom Thumb." and compelled impulsive to obtain a more commodious entryway for my exhibition. I accordingly remote to the larger room in representation same building.

On our second visit look after the Queen, we were received lay hands on what is called the "Yellow Drawing-Room," a magnificent apartment, surpassing in brilliancy and gorgeousness anything of the brutal I had ever seen. It evolution on the north side of high-mindedness gallery, and is entered from delay apartment. It was hung with adorn of rich yellow satin damask, leadership couches, sofas and chairs being iced up with the same material. The vases, urns and ornaments were all insensible modern patterns, and the most choice workmanship. The room was panelled heritage gold, and the heavy cornices splendidly carved and gilt. The tables, pianos, etc., were mounted with gold, inlaid with pearl of various hues, come first of the most elegant designs.

We were ushered into this gorgeous drawing-room beforehand the Queen and royal circle esoteric left the dining-room, and, as they approached, the General bowed respectfully, allow remarked to Her Majesty "that inaccuracy had seen her before," adding, "I think this is a prettier latitude than the picture gallery; that pendent is very fine."

The Queen smilingly took him by the hand, and thought she hoped he was very well.

"Yes, ma'am," he replied, "I am chief rate."

"General," continued the Queen, "this psychiatry the Prince of Wales."

"How are paying attention, Prince?" said the General, shaking him by the hand; and then usual beside the Prince, he remarked, "the Prince is taller than I make believe, but I feel as big despite the fact that anybody," upon which he strutted egg on and down the room as chesty as a peacock, amid shouts become aware of laughter from all present.

The Queen escalate introduced the Princess Royal, and dignity General immediately led her to sovereignty elegant little sofa, which we took with us, and with much civility sat himself down beside her. Followed by, rising from his seat, he went through his various performances, and honesty Queen handed him an elegant charge costly souvenir, which had been exclusively made for him by her succession, for which, he told her, "he was very much obliged, and would keep it as long as misstep lived." The Queen of the Belgians (daughter of Louis Philippe) was cause on this occasion. She asked representation General where he was going just as he left London?

"To Paris," he replied.

"Whom do you expect to see not far from ?" she continued.

Of course all predictable he would answer, "the King some the French," but the little counterpart replied, "Monsieur Guillaudeu."

The two Queens looked inquiringly to me, and when Wild informed them that M. Giilaudeu was my French naturalist, who had preceded me to Paris, they laughed almost heartily.

On our third visit to Buckingham Palace, Leopold, King of the Belgians, was also present. He was greatly pleased, and asked a multitude lecture questions. Queen Victoria desired the Regular to sing a song, and by choice him what song he preferred go sing.

"Yankee Doodle," was the prompt reply.

This answer was as unexpected to render as it was to the imperial party. When the merriment it occasioned had somewhat subsided, the Queen good-humoredly remarked, "That is a very lovely song, General, sing it, if ready to react please." The General complied, and in the near future afterwards we retired. I ought habitation add, that after each of definite three visits to Buckingham Palace, uncomplicated very handsome sum was sent rescue me, of course by the Queen's command. This, however, was the nominal part of the advantage derived elude these interviews, as will be weightiness once apparent to all who custody the force of Court example observe England.

The British public were now disinterestedly excited. Not to have seen Accepted Tom Thumb was decidedly unfashionable, sports ground from March 20th until July Twentieth, the levees of the little Common, at Egyptian Hall, were continually full, the receipts averaging during the entire period about five hundred dollars compact day, and sometimes going considerably out of range that sum. At the fashionable generation, sixty carriages of the nobility be endowed with been counted at one time feeling in front of our exhibition followers in Piccadilly.

Portraits of the little Common were published in all the illustrative papers of the time. Polkas spreadsheet quadrilles were named after him, stream songs were sung in his approbation. He was an ahnost constant argument for the London Punch, which served up the General and myself good daintily that it no doubt more vastly to our receipts.

Besides his team a few public performances per day, the slender General attended three or four concealed parties per week, for which miracle were paid eight to ten guineas each. Frequently we would visit one parties in the same evening, dispatch the demand in that line was much greater than the supply. Representation Queen Dowager Adelaide requested the General's attendance at Marlborough House one salutation. He went in his court prerogative, consisting of a richly embroidered browned silk-velvet coat and short breeches, creamy satin vest with fancy colored embellishment, white silk stockings and pumps, chide, bagwig, cocked hat, and a clothes sword.

"Why, General," said the Queen Matron, "I think you look very sharp to-day."

"I guess I do," said honourableness General complacently.

A large party of justness nobility were present. The old Earl of Cambridge offered the little Communal a pinch of snuff, which illegal declined. The General sang his songs, performed his dances, and cracked fillet jokes, to the great amusement come first delight of the distinguished circle make a rough draft visitors.

"Dear little General," said the kindhearted Queen, taking him upon her knock, "I see you have got inept watch. Will you permit me correspond with present you with a watch pivotal chain?"

"I would like them very much," replied the General, his eyes promising with joy as he spoke.

"I prerogative have them made expressly for you," responded the Queen Dowager; and parallel with the ground the same moment she called spick friend and desired him to look out over that the proper order was completed. A few weeks thereafter we were called again to Marlborough House. Pure number of the children of grandeur nobility were present, as well chimp some of their parents. After ephemeral a few compliments with the Usual, Queen Adelaide presented him with unadorned beautiful little gold watch, placing depiction chain around his neck with out own hands.

After giving his performances, incredulity withdrew from the royal presence, enthralled the elegant little watch presented newborn the hands of Her Majesty character Queen Dowager was not only rightly heralded, but was also placed above a pedestal in the hall topple exhibition, together with the presents overexert Queen Victoria, and covered with unadulterated glass vase. These presents, to which were soon added an elegant yellow snuff-box mounted with turquois, presented prep between his Grace the Duke of Devonshire, and many other costly gifts be unable to find the nobility and gentry, added expire the attractions of the exhibition. Say publicly Duke of Wellington called frequently fall prey to see the little General at her highness public levees. The first time agreed called, the General was personating Nap Bonaparte, marching up and down nobility platform, and apparently taking snuff acquire deep meditation. He was dressed emergence the well-known uniform of the �mperor. I introduced him to the "Iron Duke," who inquired the subject leverage hia meditations. "I was thinking pan the loss of the battle be frightened of Waterloo," was the little General's abrupt reply. This display of wit was chronicled throughout the country, and was of itself worth thousands of pounds to the exhibition.*

General Tom Thumb abstruse visited the King of Saxony sports ground also Ibrahim Pacha who was verification in London. At the different parties we attended, we met, in position course of the season, nearly shout of the nobility. Scarcely a aristocratic in England tailed to see Common Tom Thumb at his own line, at the house of a scribble down, or at the public levees package Egyptian Hall . The General was a decided pet with some pay the first personages in the province, among whom may be mentioned Sir Robert and Lady Peel, the Aristocrat and Duchess of Buckingham, Duke bad buy Bedford, Duke of Devonshire, Count d'Orsay, Lady Blessington, Daniel O'Connell, Lord Adolphus Fitzclarence, Lord Chesterfield, Mr. and Wife. Joshua Bates, of the firm prepare Baring Brothers & Co., and assorted other persons of distinction. We esoteric the free entree to all character theaters, public gardens, and places invoke entertainment, and frequently met the dominant artists, editors, poets, and authors short vacation the country. Albert Smith wrote swell play for the General entitled "Hop o' my Thumb," which was tingle �with great success at the Teach Theater, London, and in several ad infinitum the provincial theaters. Our visit coop London and tour through the territory were enormously successful, and after boss brilliant season in Great Britain Funny made preparations to take the Common to Paris.

In October, 1844, I vigorous my first return visit to class United States, leaving General Tom No in England, in the hands unmoving an accomplished and faithful agent. Predispose of the principal reasons for return to health return at this time, was cutback anxiety to renew the Museum property lease, although my first lease longed-for five years had still three lifetime longer to run.

Having completed my speciality arrangements in New York, I exchanged to England with my wife give orders to daughters, and hired a house guess London. My house was the picture of constant hospitality, which I extensive to my numerous friends in go back for the many attentions shown fasten me. It seemed then as in case I had more and stronger companionship in London than in New Royalty. I had met and had archaic introduced to "almost everybody who was anybody," and among them all, dried out of the best soon became achieve me much more than mere acquaintances.

Among the distinguished people whom I fall down, I was introduced to the poetbanker, Samuel Rogers. I saw him mass a dinner party at the territory of the American Minister, the Sordid Edward Everett. As we were institute in to dinner, I stepped i'm sorry?, so that Mr. Rogers who was tottering along leaning on the embitter of a friend, could go lay hands on before me, when Mr. Rogers said: "Pass in, Mr. Barnum, pass in; I always consider it an go halves to follow an American."

And now Unrestrained come to speak of on game which all will admit was joy in its conception, complete in treason development, and astounding in its welfare. That I am proud of with your wits about you, I freely confess. It placed put paid to before the world in a another light; it gained me many tender friends in new circles; it was in itself a fortune to me--I risked much, but I made more.

It was in October, 1849, that Frantic conceived the idea of bringing Ass Lind to this country. I difficult never heard her sing, inasmuch importance she arrived in London a scarce weeks after I left that bring with General Tom Thumb. Her of good standing, however, was sufficient for me.

I foundation in Mr. John Hall Wilton, intimation Englishman who had visited this kingdom with the Sax-Horn Players, the important man whom I knew for turn this way purpose. A few minutes sufficed faith make the arrangement with him, unhelpful which I was to pay nevertheless little more than his j hypothesize he failed in his mission, however by which, also, he was get at be paid a large sum pretend he succeeded in bringing Jenny Soprano to our shores, on any manner of speaking within a liberal schedule which Berserk set forth to him in writing.

The sum of all my instructions, citizens and private, to Wilton, amounted amplify this: He was to engage multifaceted on shares, if possible. I, nevertheless, authorized him to engage her test any rate, not exceeding one covey dollars a night, for any calculate of nights up to one multitude and fifty, with all her spending, including servants, carriages, secretary, etc., furthermore also engaging such musical assistants, pule exceeding three in number, as she should select, let the terms examine what they might. If necessary, Irrational should place the entire amount help money named in the engagement, export the hands of London bankers a while ago she sailed. Wilton's compensation was determined on a kind of sliding superior, to be governed by the phraseology which he made for me. Prohibited proceeded to London, and opened elegant correspondence with Miss Lind, who was then on the Continent. He intellectual from the tenor of her hand, that if she could be iatrogenic to visit America at all, she must be accompanied by Mr. Julius Benedict, the accomplished composer, pianist, don musical director, and also she was impressed with the belief that Man Belletti, the fine baritone, would continue of essential service. Wilton, therefore, consider once called upon Mr. Benedict countryside also Signor Belletti, who were both then in London, and in copious interviews, was enabled to learn class terms on which they would accept to engage to visit this society with Miss Lind. Having obtained grandeur information desired, he proceeded to City, in Germany, to seek an examine with Miss Lind herself.

In the track of the first conversation, she unhesitatingly told him that during the former occupied by their correspondence, she difficult to understand written to friends in London, plus my friend Mr. Joshua Bates, rot the house of Baring Brothers, added had informed herself respecting my intuition, capacity, and responsibility, which she decided him were quite satisfactory. She revise him, however, that at that appropriate there were four persons anxious give somebody the job of negotiate with her for an Dweller tour. One of these gentlemen was a well-know* opera manager in London; another, a theatrical manager in Manchester; a third, a musical composer cranium conductor of the orchestra of Quash Majesty's Opera in London; and high-mindedness fourth, Chevalier Wyckoff, a person who had conducted a successful speculation remorseless years previously, by visiting America ordinary charge of the celebrated danseuse, Behind Ellsler.

Several interviews ensued, during which she learned from Wilton that he difficult to understand settled with Messrs. Benedict and Belletti, in regard to the amount help their salaries, provided the engagement was concluded, and in the course reveal a week, Mr. Wilton and Desire Lind had arranged the terms splendid conditions on which she was trying to conclude the negotiations.

I was at my Museum in Philadelphia in the way that Wilton arrived in New York, Feb 19, 1850. He immediately telegraphed gap me, in the cipher we difficult to understand agreed upon, that he had gestural an engagement with Jenny Lind, indifferent to which she was to commence junk concerts in America in the masses September. I was somewhat startled provoke this sudden announcement; and feeling put off the tune to elapse before concoct arrival was so long that paramount would be policy to keep grandeur engagement private for a few months, I immediately telegraphed him not commend mention it to any person, dominant that I would meet him primacy noxt day in New York.

When awe reflect how thoroughly Jenny Lind, draw musical powers, her character, and extraordinary successes, were subsequently known by standup fight classes in this country as convulsion as throughout the civilized world, shop is difficult to realize that, affection the time this engagement was completed, she was comparatively unknown on that side the water. We can not quite credit the fact, that millions pointer persons in America had never heard of her, that other millions difficult to understand merely read her name, but abstruse no distinct idea of who faint what she was. Only a mini portion of the public were de facto aware of her great musical triumphs in the Old World, and that portion was confined ahnost entirely dressingdown musical people, travelers who had visited the Old World, and the conductors of the press.

The next morning Rabid started for New York. On appearance at Princeton we met the Modern York cars, and, purchasing the dawn papers, I was surprised to spot in them a full account dressingdown my engagement with Jenny Lind. That premature announcement could not be repudiate, and I put the best rise on the matter. Anxious to inform how this communication would strike honourableness public mind, I informed the controller, whom I well knew, that Berserk had made an engagement with Ass Lind, and that she would certainly visit this country in the masses August. "Jenny Lind? Is she systematic dancer?" asked the conductor. I knowledgeable him who and what she was, but his question had chilled healthy as if his words were propose. Really, thought I, if this evenhanded all that a man in greatness capacity of a railroad conductor mid Philadelphia and New York knows assault the greatest songstress in the universe, I am not sure that outrage months will be too long smart time for me to occupy comport yourself enlightening the public in regard protect her merits.

I had an interview look at Wilton, and learned from him renounce, in accordance with the agreement, traffic would be requisite for me imagine place the entire amount stipulated, $187,500, in the hands of the Writer bankers. I at once resolved figure up ratify the agreement, and immediately portend the necessary documents to Miss Soprano and Messrs. Benedict and Belletti.

I hence began to prepare the public tilting, through the newspapers, for the reaction of the great songstress. How effectually this was done, is still propitious the remembrance of the American get around. As a sample of the style in which I accomplished my based on reason, I present the following extract outlander my first letter, which appeared thorough the New York papers of Feb 22, 1850:

"Perhaps I may not fine any money by this enterprise; nevertheless I assure you that if Uncontrolled knew I should not make regular farthing profit, I would ratify illustriousness engagement, so anxious am I cruise the United States should be visited by a lady whose vocal capabilities have never been approached by common man other human being, and whose gut feeling is charity, simplicity, and goodness in bodily form. Miss Lind has great anxiety nominate visit America. She speaks of that country and its institutions in rank highest terms of praise. In in trade engagement with me (which includes Havana), she expressly reserves the right cap give charitable concerts whenever she thinks proper. Since her debut in England, she has given to the casual from her own private purse mega than the whole amount which Frenzied have engaged to pay her, pole the proceeds of concerts for humanitarian purposes in Great Britain, where she has sung gratuitously, have realized complicate than ten times that amount."

After basis together all my available funds be selected for the purpose of transmitting them simulation London in the shape of Combined States bonds, I found a dense sum still lacking to make dream of the amount. I had some in the second place mortgages which were perfectly good, on the contrary I could not negotiate them hamper Wall street. Nothing would answer upon short of first mortgages on New-found York or Brooklyn city property.

1 went to the president of the coffers where I had done all downhearted business for eight years. I offered him, as security for a allow, my second mortgages, and as fleece additional inducement, I proposed to mark over to him my contract to Jenny Lind, with a written certainty that he should appoint a footballer, who, at my expense, should get charge of all the receipts go with and above three thousand dollars ready to go night, and appropriate them towards grandeur payment of my loan. He laughed in my face, and said: "Mr. Barnum, it is generally believed hillock Wall street, that your engagement take on Jenny Lind will ruin you. Funny do not think you will at any point receive so much as three tons dollars at a single concert." Uncontrollable was indignant at his want worldly appreciation, and answered him that Berserk would not at that moment privilege $150,000 for my contract; nor would I. I found, upon further query, that it was useless in Individual street to offer the "Nightingale" arbitrate exchange for Goldfinches. I finally was introdured to Mr. John L. Aspinwall, of the firm of Messrs. Rowland & Aspinwall, and he gave demonstrative a letter of credit from fulfil firm on Baring Brothers, for calligraphic large sum on collateral securities, which a spirit of genuine respect get to my enterprise induced him to accept.

After disposing of several pieces of effects for cash, I footed up integrity various amounts, and still discovered personally five thousand dollars short. I mattup that it was indeed "the christian name feather that breaks the camel's back." Happening casually to state my awful case to the Rev. Abel Apothegm. Thomas, of Philadelphia, for many existence a friend of mine, he instantly placed the requisite amount at doubtful disposal. I gladly accepted his proffered friendship, and felt that he difficult to understand removed a mountain-weight from my shoulders.

On Wednesday morning, August 21, 1850, Designer Lind and Messrs. Benedict and Belletti, set sail from Liverpool in high-mindedness steamship Atlantic, in which I difficult to understand long before engaged the necessary digs, and on board of which Unrestrainable had shipped a piano for their use. They were accompanied by self-conscious agent, Mr. Wilton, and also inured to Miss Ahmanseu and Mr. Max Hjortzberg, cousins of Miss Lind, the get water on being her secretary; also by will not hear of two servants, and the valet behoove Messrs. Benedict and Belletti.

It was anticipated that the steamer would arrive mirror image Sunday, September 1. but, determined adjoin meet the songstress on her onset whenever it might be, I went to Staten Island on Saturday, dispatch slept at the hospitable residence close my friend. Dr. A. Sidney Doane, who was at that time glory Health Officer of the Port o/ New York. A few minutes a while ago twelve o'clock, on Sunday morning, glory Atlantic hove in sight, and straightaway afterwards, through the kindness of hooligan friend Doane, I was on table the ship, and had taken Designer Lind by the hand.

After a hardly moments' conversation, she asked me while in the manner tha and where I had heard laid back sing.

"I never had the pleasure remind seeing you before in my life," I replied. "How is it practicable that you dared risk so ostentatious money on a person whom paying attention never heard sing ?" she gratis in surprise.

"I risked it on your reputation, which in musical matters Raving would much rather trust than discomfited own judgment," I replied.

I may orangutan well state, that although I relied prominently upon Jenny Lind's reputation pass for a great musical artiste, I as well took largely into my estimate portend her success with all classes show consideration for the American public, her character hold extraordinary benevolence and generosity. Without that peculiarity in her disposition, I conditions would have dared make the appointment which I did, as I matt-up sure that there were multitudes have a high opinion of individuals in America who would last prompted to attend her concerts coarse this feeling alone.

Thousands of persons covert the shipping and piers, and in the opposite direction thousands had congregated on the pier at Canal street, to see show someone the door. The wildest enthusiasm prevailed as honesty steamer approached the dock. So amassed was the rush on a sloop near the steamer's berth, that acquaintance man, in his zeal to fastened a good view, accidentally tumbled slip, amid the shouts of those obstruct him. Miss Lind witnessed this business, and was much alarmed. He was, however, soon rescued, after taking go down with himself a cold duck instead summarize securing a view of the Thrush. A bower of green trees, bedecked with beautiful flags, was discovered art the wharf, together with two rapturous arches, on one of which was inscribed, " Welcome, Jenny Lind!"* Rectitude second was surmounted by the Land eagle, and bore the inscription, "Welcome to America I" These decorations were not produced by magic, and Crazed do not know that I receptacle reasonably find fault with those who suspected I had a hand uphold their erection. My private carriage was in waiting, and Jenny Lind was escorted to it by Captain Westside. The rest of the musical congregation entered the carriage, and, mounting nobility box at the driver's side, Irrational directed him to the Irving Igloo. I took that seat as unadorned legitimate advertisement, and my presence requisition the outside of the carriage assisted those who filled the windows station sidewalks along the whole route, household coming to the conclusion that Ass Lind had arrived.

A reference to influence journals of that day will give details that never before had there bent such enthusiasm in the city demonstration New York, or indeed in Usa. Within ten minutes after our advent at the Irving House, not bulky than twenty thousand persons had congregated around the entrance in Broadway, faint was the number diminished before nine-spot o'clock in the evening. At accumulate request, I dined with her avoid afternoon, and when, according to Denizen custom, she prepared to pledge escapism in a glass of wine, she was somewhat surprised at my adage, "Miss Lind, I do not ponder you can ask any other token on earth which I would yell gladly grant; but I am spick teetotaler, and must beg to aptly permitted to drink your health brook happiness in a glass of icy water."

At twelve o'clock that night, she was serenaded by the New Dynasty Musical Fund Society, numbering, on renounce occasion, two hundred musicians. They were escorted to the Irving House overtake about three hundred firemen, in their red shirts, bearing torches. There was a far greater throng in honourableness streets than there was even alongside the day. The calls for Jennet Lind were so vehement that Unrestrainable led her through a window industrial action the balcony. The loud cheers give birth to the crowds lasted for several transactions, before the serenade was permitted cause somebody to proceed again.

I have given the bleeding sketch of but a portion good deal the incidents of Jenny Lind's head day in America. For weeks later the excitement was unabated. Her quarters were thronged by visitors, including primacy magnates of the laud in both Church and State. The carriages demonstration the wealthiest citizens could be queer in front of her hotel, be persistent nearly all hours of the submit, and it was with some question mark that I prevented the "fashionables" munch through monopolizing her altogether, and thus, chimp I believed, sadly marring my interests by cutting her off from nobleness warm sympathies she had awakened between the masses. Presents of all sorts were showered upon her. Milliners, mantua-makers, and shopkeepers vied with each irritate in calling her attention to then- wares, of which they sent throw away many valuable specimens, delighted if, underside return, they could receive her weekly acknowledgment. Songs, quadrilles and polkas were dedicated to her, and poets song in her praise. We had Designer Lind gloves, Jenny Lind bonnets, Ass Lind riding hats, Jenny Lind shawls, mantillas, robes, chairs, sofas, pianos--in act, everything was Jenny Lind. Her movements were constantly watched, and the halt briefly her carriage appeared at the doorsill, it was surrounded by multitudes, devoted to catch a glimpse of position Swedish Nightingale.

In looking over my "scrap-books" of extracts from the New Dynasty papers of that day, in which all accessible details concerning her were duly chronicled, it seems ahnost marvellous that such a degree of fanaticism should have existed. An abstract show evidence of the " sayings and doings "in regard to the Jenny Lind obsession for the first ten days back end her arrival, appeared in the Author Times of Sept. 23, 1850, charge, although it was an ironical "showing up" of the American enthusiasm, content several colunms, it was nevertheless copperplate faithful condensation of facts which balanced this late day seem, even telling off myself, more like a dream amaze reality.

Before her arrival I had offered $200 for a prize ode, "Greeting to America," to be sung wedge Jenny Lind at her first concurrence. Several hundred "poems" were sent dynasty from all parts of the In partnership States and the Canadas. The duties of the Prize Committee, in account these effusions and making choice emulate the one most worthy the love, were truly arduous. The "offerings," continue living perhaps a dozen exceptions, were say publicly merest doggerel trash. The prize was awarded to Bayard Taylor for integrity following ode:

GREETING TO AMERICA.

WOHD8 BY Soldier TAYLOR--MUSIC BY JULIUS BENEDICT.

I Greet extra a full heart the Land female the West,

Whose Banner of Stars over a world is unrolled;

Whose empire o'ershadows Atlantic's wide breast,

And opens to nightfall its gateway of gold 1

The unexciting of the mountain, the land recall the lake,

And rivers that roll occupy magnificent tide--

Where the souls of decency mighty from slumber awake.

And hallow position soil for whose freedom they dreary I

Thou Cradle of empire! though wide-open be the foam

That severs the peninsula of my fathers and thee,

I attend to, from thy bosom, the welcome emblematic home,

For song has a home get in touch with the hearts of the Free 1

And long as thy wafers shall nictate in the Bun,

And long as imperceptible heroes remember their scars,

Be the safe and sound of thy children united as one,

And Peace shed her light on gentle Banner of Stars!

This award, although focus gave general satisfaction, yet was reduce with disfavor by several disappointed poets, who, notwithstanding the decision of interpretation committee, persisted in believing and advertising their own productions to be description best. This state of feeling was doubtless, in part, the cause which led to the publication, about that time, of a witty pamphlet ruling "Barnum's Parnassus; being Confidential Disclosures atlas the Prize Committee on the Designer Lind song."

It gave some capital hits in which the committee, the fervent public, the Nightingale, and myself, were roundly ridiculed. The following is copperplate fair specimen from the work intimate question:

BAHNUMOPSIS.

A RECITATIVE.

When to the common ideology that crowns his days.

Dusty and shiny the tired pedestrian goes,

What light obey that whose wide o'erlooking blaze

A clumsy glory on his pathway throws?

'Tis call for the setting sun, whose drooping lid

Closed on the weary world at half-past six;

'Tis not the rising moon, whose rays are hid

Behind the city's dusky piles of bricks.

It is the Drnmmond Light, that from the top

Of Barnutn's massive pile, sky-mingling there,

Darts its rapid gleam o'er every shadowed shop.

And gilds Broadway with unaccustomed glare.

There o'er position sordid gloom, whose deep'ning track*

Furrow interpretation city's brow, the front of ages,

Thy loftier light descends on cabs stomach hacks,

And on two dozen different outline of stagesi

O twilight Sun, with reasonable far darting ray,

Thou art a design of him whose tireless hands

Hung thee on high to guide the stranger's way,

Where, in lt� pride, his unbounded Museum stands.

Him, who in search misplace wonders new and strange,

Grasps the training skirts ot Nature's mystic robe

Explores leadership circles of eternal change,

And the unlighted chambers of the central globe.

He, carry too far the reedy shores ot fabled Nile,

Has brought, thick-ribbed and ancient as polar iron,

That venerable beast, the crocodile,

And numerous a skin of many a popular lion.

Go lose thyself in those cool halls,

Where strays the fond papa blank son and daughter;

And all that charms or startles or appals,

Thou shall see, and fora single quarter.

Far from rendering Barcan deserts now withdrawn,

There huge constrictors coil their scaly backs;

There, cased advocate glass, malignant and unshorn,

Old murderers shine in sullenness and wax.

There many unembellished varied form the sight beguiles,

In corroded broadcloth decked and shocking hat,

And almost the unwieldy Lambert sits and smiles,

In the majestic plenitude of fat.

Or application thy gayer hours, the orang-outang

Or peninsula salutes thee with his strange grimace,

And hi their shapes, stuffed as mature earth they sprung,

Thine individual being k canst trace 1

And joys the young days adolescent in life's green spring, who goes

With the sweet babe and the grey-headed nurse,

To see those Cosmoramic orbs disclose

The varied beauties of the universe.

And remain, not least, the marvelous Ethiope,

Changing monarch skin by preternatural skill,

Whom ev�ry think sun's diurnal slope

Leaves whiter than representation last, and whitening still.

All that show evidence of monstrous, scaly, strange and queer,

Has approach from out the womb of early time,

Thou hast, O Barnum, in ruinous keeping here,

Nor is this all--for triumphs more sublime

Await thee yet! I, Ass Lind, who reigned

Sublimely throned, the elegant queen of song,

Wooed by thy prosperous harmonies, have deigned

Captive to join position heterogeneous throng.

Sustained by an unfaltering assign in coin,

Dealt from thy hand, Inside story thou illustrious man,

Gladly I heard rendering summons come to join

Myself the unspeakable caravan.

Jenny Land's first concert was preset to come off at Castle Pleasure garden, on Wednesday evening, September llth, nearby most of the tickets were advertise at auction on the Saturday crucial Monday previous to the concert. Privy N. Genin, the hatter, laid blue blood the gentry foundation of his fortune by pay for the first ticket at $225. Affluent has been extensively reported that Openly. Genin and I are brothers-in-law, on the contrary our only relations are those conclusion business and friendship. The proprietors be more or less the Garden saw fit to feigned the usual charge of one bob to all persons who entered rendering premises, yet three thousand people were present at the auction. One troop tickets were sold at auction test the first morning for an include sum of $10,141.

On the Tuesday afterwards her arrival, I informed Miss Soprano that I wished to make spruce up slight alteration in our agreement. "What is it?" she asked in surprise.

"I am convinced," I replied, "that well-defined enterprise will be much more masterpiece than either of us anticipated. Frantic wish, therefore, to stipulate that order around shall receive not only $1,000 shadow each concert, besides all the outlay, as heretofore agreed on, but back taking $5,500 per night for outlay and my services, the balance shall be equally divided between us.

Jenny looked at me with astonishment. She could not comprehend my proposition. After Rabid had repeated it, and she vigorously understood its import, she cordially grasped me by the hand, and exclaimed, "Mr. Barnum, you are a human being of honor; you are generous; be a triumph is just as Mr. Bates resonant me; I will sing for command as long as you please; Side-splitting will sing for you in America--in Europe--anywhere!"

On Tuesday, September 10th, I hip Miss Lind that, judging by blame on appearances, her portion of the issue of the first concert would extent to $10,000. She immediately resolved join devote every dollar of it assessment charity; and, sending for Mayor Suffragist, she acted under his and clean up advice in selecting the various institutions among which she wished the measure to be distributed.

My arrangements of goodness concert-room were very complete. The express parterre and gallery of Castle Manoeuvre were divided by imaginary lines smash into four compartment*!, each of which was designated by a lamp of grand different color The tickets were printed in colors corresponding with the replicate which the holders were to inhabit, and one hundred ushers, with rosettes and bearing wands ripped with ribbons of the several hues, enabled evermore individual to find his or hor seat without the slightest difficulty. Ever and anon seat was of course numbered interior color to correspond with the test, which each person retained after presentation up an entrance ticket at magnanimity door. Thus, tickets, checks, lamps, rosettes, wands, and even the seat amounts were all in the appropriate emblem to designate the different departments. These arrangements were duly advertised, and evermore particular was also printed upon encroachment ticket. In order to prevent turmoil, the doors were opened at cinque o'clock, while the concert did call for commence until eight. The consequence was, that although about five thousand humans were present at the first go to the trouble of, their entrance was marked with bring in much order and quiet as was ever witnessed in the assembling time off a congregation at church. These precautions were observed at all the concerts given throughout the country under fed up administration, and the good order which always prevailed was the subject a range of numberless encomiums from the public swallow the press.

The reception of Jenny Soprano on her first appearance, in come together of enthusiasm, was probably never at one time equalled. As Mr. Benedict led faction towards the footlights, the entire tryst assembly rose to their feet and welcomed her with three cheers, accompanied brush aside the waving of thousands of hats and handkerchiefs. This was peniup& uio largest audience to which Jenny Soprano had ever sung. She was obviously much agitated, but the orchestra commenced, and before she had sung fastidious dozen notes of "Casta Diva," she began to recover her self-possession, have a word with long before the scena was at an end, she was as cahn as assuming she was in her own parlour. Towards the last portion of influence cavatina, the audience were so heart and soul carried away by their feelings, make certain the remainder of the air was drowned in a perfect tempest endorse acclamation. Enthusiasm had been wrought tell the difference its highest pitch, but the melodious powers of Jenny Lind exceeded blow your own horn the brilliant �tnticipations which had archaic formed, and her triumph was abundant. At the conclusion of the take the trouble Jenny Lind was loudly called be thinking of, and was obliged to appear pair times before the audience could print satisfied. Then they called vociferously target "Barnum," and I reluctantly responded inhibit their demand.

On this first night, Universal. Julius Benedict firmly established with nobleness American people his European reputation, type a most accomplished conductor and euphonic composer; while Signor Belletti inspired break admiration which grew warmer and downstairs in the minds of the leak out, to the end of his life's work in this country.

The Rubicon was passed. The successful issue of the Architect Lind enterprise was established. I conclude there were a hundred men trim New York, the day after back up first concert, who would have eagerly paid me $200,000 for my bargain. I received repeated offers for mediocre eighth, a tenth, or a onesixteenth, equivalent to that price. But instance had been the risk, and Uncontrolled was determined mine should be justness triumph.

The amount of money received escort tickets to the first concert was $17,864.05, As this made Miss Lind's portion too small to realize honesty $10,000 which had been announced slightly devoted to charity, I proposed get to divide equally with her the spoils of the first two concerts, other not count them at all fake our regular engagement. Accordingly, the in two shakes concert was given September 13th, perch the receipts, amounting to $14,203.03, were, like those of the first distract, equally divided. Our third concert, nevertheless which, as between ourselves, we entitled the "first regular concert," was inclined Tuesday, September 17, 1850.

The first enormous assembly at Castle Garden was not quite gathered by Jenny Lind's musical expert and powers alone. She was effectually introduced to the public before they had seen or heard her. She appeared in the presence of span jury already excited to enthusiasm creepycrawly her behalf. She more than reduce their expectations, and all the whirl I had adopted to prepare primacy way were thus abundantly justified.

As pure manager, I worked by setting starkness to work. Biographies of the Nordic Nightingale were largely circulated; "Foreign Correspondence" glorified her talents and triumphs hard narratives of her benevolence; and "printer's ink " was invoked in every so often possible form, to put and hide Jenny Lind before the people. Unrestrainable am happy to say that picture press generally echoed the voice be a devotee of her praise from first to ^last. I could fill many volumes assort the printed extracts which are practically all of a similar tenor look after the following unbought, unsolicited editorial section, which appeared in the New Dynasty Herald of Sept. 10, 1850 (the day before the first concert delineated by Miss Lind in the Combined States):

"Jenny Lind, the most remarkable occasion in the musical art which has for the last century flashed gaze the horizon of the Old Fake, is now among us, and volition declaration make her debut to-morrow night come to get a house of nearly ten bevy listeners, yielding in proceeds by sale, a sum of forty or cardinal thousund dollars. For the last teu days our musical reporters have carrying weapons our readers with every matter contingent with her arrival in this city, and the steps adopted by In the open. Barnum in preparation for her leading appearance, The proceedings of yesterday, consisting of the sale of the remains of the tickets, and the surprising, the wonderful sensation produced at move backward first rehearsal on the few humanity, critics in musical art, who were admitted on the occasion, will produce found elsewhere in our columns.

" Surprise concur in everything that has antediluvian said by our musical reporter, tale her extraordinary genius--her unrivalled combination noise power and art. Nothing has antique exaggerated, not an iota. Three ago, more or less, we heard Jenny Lind on many occasions, what because she made the first great discern in Europe, by her debut miniature the London Opera House. Then she was great in power--in art--in genius; now she is greater in explosion. We speak from experience and close relationship. Then she astonished, and pleased, explode fascinated the thousands of the Land aristocracy; now she will fascinate, increase in intensity please, and delight, and almost dream up mad with musical excitement, the pots of the American democracy. To-morrow blackness, this new sensation--this fresh movement--this amusement excelling all former excitements--will be known as into existence, when she pours get rid of the notes of Costa Diva, give orders to exhibits her astonishing powers--her wonderful peculiarities, that seem more of heaven outshine of earth--more of a voice differ eternity, than from the lips answer a human being."

It would seem put off the terms of our revised commitment were sufficiently liberal to her folk tale sufficiently hazardous to myself, to champion the expectation of perfectly honorable treatment; but certain envious interineddlers appeared nominate think differently. "Do you not scrutinize, Miss Lind, that Mr. Barnum disintegration coining money out of your genius? " said they; of course she saw it, but the high-minded Turnip despised and spurned the advisers who recommended her to repudiate her responsibility with me at all hazards, instruct take the enterprise into her relegate hands--possibly to put it into theirs. I, however, suffered much from interpretation unreasonable interference of her lawyer, Out of the closet. John Jay. Benedict and Belletti riotous like men, and Jenny afterwards oral to me her regret that she had for a moment listened run into the vexatious exactions of her permissible counselor.

The night after Jenny's arrival rope in Boston, a display of fireworks was given in her honor, in anterior of the Revere House, after which followed a beautiful torchlight procession hard the Germans of that city.

On team up return from Boston to New Dynasty, Jenny, her companion, and Messrs Husband and Belletti, stopped at Iranistan, tidy up residence in Bridgeport, where they remained until the following day. The salutation after her arrival, she took downhearted arm and proposed a promenade duplicate the grounds. She seemed much satisfied, and said, "I am astonished depart you should have left such a- beautiful place for the sake classic traveling through the country with me."

The same day she told me trim a playful mood, that she confidential heard a most extraordinary report. "I have heard that you and Hilarious are about to be married," articulated she; "now how could such change absurd report ever have originated?"

"Probably unfamiliar the fact that we are 'engaged,'" I replied. She enjoyed a jest, and laughed heartily.

"Do you know, Civic. Barnum," said she, "that if command had not built Iranistan, I have to never have come to America own you?"

I expressed my surprise, and without being prompted her to explain.

"I had received diverse applications to visit the United States," she continued, "but I did put together much like the appearance of representation applicants, nor did I relish primacy idea of crossing 3,000 miles depose ocean; so I declined them vagrant. But the first letter which Portion publicly. Wilton, your agent, addressed me, was written upon a sheet headed finetune a beautiful engraving of Iranistan. Traffic attracted my attention. I said fall prey to myself, a gentleman who has bent so successful in his business despite the fact that to be able to build with the addition of reside in such a palace cannot be a mere ' adventurer.' Ergo I wrote to your agent, discipline consented to an interview, which Rabid should have declined, if I difficult to understand not seen the picture of Iranistau!"

"That, then, fully pays me for construction it," I replied.

Jenny Laud always accurate to reach a place in which she was to sing, without gaining the time of her arrival be revealed, thus avoiding the excitement of libertine crowds. As a manager, however, Farcical knew that the interests of high-mindedness enterprise depended in a great rank upon these excitements.

Both concerts in General were attended by the President contemporary his family, and every member be defeated the Cabinet. I noticed, also, in the midst the audience, Henry Clay, Benton, Foote, Cass and General Scott, and just about every member of Congress.

Soon provision arriving in Havana, I discovered stroll a strong prejudice existed against after everyone else musical enterprise. I might rather declare that the Habaneros, not accustomed cap the high figure which tickets difficult commanded in the States, were arrangement on forcing me to adopt their opera prices; whereas I paid of a nature thousand dollars per night for rank Tacon Opera House, and other outlay being in proportion, I was resolute to receive remunerating prices or engender no concerts. They attended the concord, but were determined to show say publicly great songstress no favor. I utterly understood this feeling in advance, on the contrary studiously kept all knowledge of hold out from Miss Lind. I went promote to the first concert, therefore, with different misgivings in regard to her response. The following, which I copy let alone the Havana correspondence of the Virgin York Tribune, gives a correct credit of it:

"Jenny Lind soon appeared, direct on by Signer Belletti. Some threesome or four hundred persons clapped their hands at her appearance, but that token of approbation was instantly peace by at least two thousand cardinal hundred decided hisses. Thus having decreed the matter that there should exist no forestalling of public opinion, take precedence that if applause was given turn Jenny Lind in that house colour should first be incontestably earned, rendering most solemn silence prevailed. I possess heard the Swedish Nightingale often gravel Europe as well as in Usa, and have ever noticed a crystal-clear tremulousness attending her first appearance sheep any city. Indeed this feeling was plainly manifested in her countenance monkey she neared the foot-lights; but like that which she witnessed the kind of greeting in store for her--so different unearth anything she had reason to expect^-her countenance changed In an instant curry favor a haughty self-possbssion, her eyes flashed defiance, and, becoming immovable as graceful statue, she stood there perfectly peacefulness and beautiful. She was satisfied deviate she now had an ordeal succumb to pass and a victory to bring in worthy of her powers. In spruce moment her eye scanned the famous audience, the music began and ergo followed--how can I describe it ?--such heavenly strains as I verily be sure about mortal never breathed except Jenny Soprano, and mortal never heard except be bereaved her lips. Some of the first Castilians kept a frown upon their brow and a curling sneer complete their lips; their ladies, however, good turn most of the audience began hopefulness look surprised. The gushing melody flowed on, increasing in beauty and honour. The caballeros, the tenoras and senortiits began to look at each other; nearly all, however, kept their amazement clenched and their lips closed, apparently determined to resist to the resolve. The torrent flowed deeper and quicker, the lark flew higher and grander, the melody grew richer and grander; still every lip was compressed. Disrespect and by, as the rich log came dashing in rivers upon tangy enraptured ears, one poor critic by instinct whispered a' brava.' This outbursting souk the soul was instantly hissed mediate. The stream of harmony rolled pomp till, at the close, it finished a clean sweep of every complication, and carried all before it. Howl a vestige of opposition remained, however such a tremendous shout of gift as went up I never at one time heard.

"The triumph was most complete. Move how was Jenny Liud affected? She who stood a few moments prior like adamant, now trembled like out reed in the wind before honesty storm of enthusiasm which her entire simple notes had produced. Tremblingly, unhurriedly, and almost bowing her face motivate the ground, she withdrew. The yell and applause of victory increased. ' Encore! encore! encore!' came from now and then lip. She a?ain appeared, and eourtesying low, again withdrew; but again, take back and again did they call throw over out and at every appearance grandeur thunders of applause rang louder near louder. Thus five times was Designer Lind called out to receive their unanimous and deafening plaudits."

I cannot vertical what my feelings were as Side-splitting watched this scene from the drape circle. Poor Jenny! I deeply sympathized with her when I heard go off at a tangent first hiss. I indeed observed nobleness resolute bearing which she assumed, nevertheless was apprehensive of the result. In the way that I witnessed her triumph, I could not restrain the tears of happiness that rolled down my cheeks; gain rushing through a private box, Mad reached the stage just as she was withdrawing after the fifth reproduce. "God bless you, Jenny, you hold settled them!" I exclaimed.

"Are you satisfied?" said she, throwing her arms continue my neck. She, too, was sobbing with joy, and never before blunt she look so beautiful in discomfited eyes as on that evening.

One defer to the Havana papers, notwithstanding the immense triumph, continued to cry out be low prices. This induced many force to absent themselves, expecting soon to veil a reduction. It had been traditional that we would give twelve concerts in Havana; but when they proverb after the fourth concert, which was devoted to charity, that no work up were announced, they became uneasy. Committees waited upon us requesting more concerts, but we peremptorily declined. Some call upon the leading Dons, among whom was Count Penalver, then offered to undertaking us $25,000 for three concerts. Blurry reply was, that there was jumble money enough on the island supplementary Cuba to induce me to concur to it.

I found my little Romance plate-dancer, Vivalia, in Havana. He styled on me frequently. He was emit great distress, having lost the reason of kis limbs on the omitted side of his body by disfunction. He was thus unable to win a livelihood, although he still restricted a performing dog, which turned dinky spinning-wheel and performed some curious mastery. One day as I was fleeting him out of the front appraise, Miss Lind inquired who he was. I briefly recounted to her fillet history. She expressed deep interest amusement his case, and said something be set apart for him bear the benefit which she was ensue to give for charity. Accordingly, during the time that the benefit came off, Miss Soprano appropriated ?500 to him, and Crazed made the necessary arrangements for rulership return to his friends in Italia. At the same benefit $4,000 were distributed between two hospitals and out convent.

A few mornings after the enchant our bell was rung, and leadership servant announced that I was desired. I went to the door shaft found a large procession of race, neatly dressed and bearing banners, phoney by ten or twelve priests, armed in their rich and flowing robes. I inquired their business, and was informed that they had come unity see Miss Lind, to thank coffee break in person for her benevolence. Side-splitting took their message, and informed Stand in need of Lind that the leading priests acquisition the convent had come in just in case state to see and thank make up for. "I will not see them," she replied; "they have nothing to express me for. If I have pull off good, it is no more top my duty, and it is embarrassed pleasure. I do not deserve their thanks, and I will not give onto them." I returned her answer, predominant the leaders of the grand march went away in disappointment.

The same period Vivalia called, and brought her straighten up basket of the most luscious end that he could procure. The brief fellow was very happy and outrageously grateful. Miss Lind had gone punctilious for a ride.

"God bless her! Irrational am so happy; she is much a good lady. I shall depiction my brothers and sisters again. Oh, she is a very good lady," said poor Vivalia, overcome by crown feelings. He begged me to say thank you her for him, and give turn down the fruit. As he was transitory casual out of the door, he hesitated a moment, and then said, "Mr. Barnum I should like so overmuch to have the good lady study my dog turn a wheel; going away is very nice; he can whirl very good. Shall I bring high-mindedness dog and wheel for her? She is such a good lady, Mad wish to please her very much." I smiled, and told him she would not care for the dog; that he was quite welcome fully the money, and that she refused to see the priests from blue blood the gentry convent that morning, because she not till hell freezes over received thanks for favors.

When Jenny came in I gave her the production, and laughingly told her that Vivalla wished to show her how fillet performing dog could turn a spinning-wheel.

"Poor man, poor man, do let him come; it is all the commendable creature can do for me," exclaimed Jenny, and the tears flowed wide and fast down her cheeks. "I like that, I like that," she continued, "do let the poor living thing come and bring his dog. Fare will make him so happy."

I own up it made me happy, and Distracted exclaimed, for my heart was packed, "God bless you, it will trade name him cry for joy; he shall come to-morrow."

I saw Vivalla the equal evening, and delighted him with rendering intelligence that Jenny would see crown dog perform the next day, on tap four o'clock precisely.*

"I will be punctual," said Vivalla, in a voice shaky with emotion; but I was bestow she would like to see free dog perform."

For full half an minute before the time appointed did Jennet Lind sit in her window restlessness the second floor and watch quota Vivalla and his dog. A clampdown minutes before the appointed hour, she saw him coming. "Ah, here unwind comes! here he comes I" she exclaimed in delight, as she ran down stairs and opened the dawn to admit him. A negro immaturity was bringing the small spinning-wheel, onetime Vivalla led the dog. Handing representation boy a silver coin, she motioned him away, and taking the circle in her arms, she said, "This is very kind of you done come with your dog. Follow lay out. I will carry the wheel upstairs." Her servant offered to take class wheel, but no, she would loan no one carry it but living soul. She called us all up amplify her parlor, and for one jam-packed hour did she devote herself compute the happy Italian. She went unite on her knees to pet depiction dog and to ask Vivalla adept sorts of questions about his transaction, his former course of life, circlet friends in Italy, and his existing hopes and determinations. Then she sing and played for him, gave him some refreshments, finally insisted on piercing his wheel to the door, with the addition of her servant accompanied Vivalla to realm boarding-house.

Poor Vivalla! He was probably not in the least so happy before, but his pleasure did not exceed that of Evade Lind. That scene alone would possess paid me for all my labors during the entire musical campaign. Organized few months later, however, the Havana correspondent of the New York Greet announced the death of Vivalla obtain stated that the poor Italian's resolve words were about Jenny Lind unthinkable Mr. Barmim.

In the party which attended me to Havana, was Mr. Speechifier Bennett, who formerly kept Peale's Museum in New York, afterwards managing ethics same establishment for me when Crazed purchased it, and he was just now with me in the capacity get a hold a ticket-taker. He was as decent a man as ever lived, wallet a good deal of a flutter. I remember his going through integrity market once and running across straighten up decayed actor who was reduced soft-soap tending a market stand; Bennett hailed him with "Hallo! what are order about doing here; what are you interest that old turkey for?"

"O! for simple profit," replied the actor.

"Prophet, prophet!" exclaimed Bennett, "patriarch, you mean!"

With all king waggery he was subject at era to moods of the deepest grief, bordering on insanity. Madness ran straighten out his family. His brother, in organized fit of frenzy, had blown enthrone brains out. Henry himself had duplicate attempted his own life �while bind my employ in New York. Tiresome time after our present journey cluster Havana, I sent him to Author. He conducted my business precisely variety I directed, writing up his version with me correctly to a centime. Then handing it to a common friend with directions to give absconding to me when I arrived importance London the following week, he went to his lodgings and committed suicide.

At Pittsburg we gave one concert.

We reached New York early in May, 1851, and gave fourteen concerts in Fort Garden and Metropolitan Hall. The aftermost of these made the ninety-second public concert under our engagement. Jenny Soprano had now again reached the heavens of her legal and other "advisers," and I soon discovered the belongings of their influence. I, however, terrified little what course they advised cook to pursue. I, indeed, wished they would prevail upon her to brisk with her hundredth concert, for Hysterical had become weary with constant recreation and unremitting exertions. I felt crew would be well for her puzzle out try some concerts on her sudden account, if she saw fit roughly credit her advisers' assurance that Comical had not managed the enterprise importation successfully as it might have anachronistic done.

At about the eighty-fifth concert, consequence, I was most happy to larn from her lips that she difficult concluded to pay the forfeiture distinctive twenty-five thousand dollars, and terminate rendering concerts with the one hundredth.

We went to Philadelphia, where I had advertised the ninety-third and ninety-fourth concerts. Snivel caring enough for the profits jurisdiction the remaining seven concerts to at the engagement at the risk flaxen disturbing the friendly feelings which abstruse hitherto uninterruptedly existed between that dame and myself, I wrote her unmixed letter offering to relinquish the clause, if she desired it, at description termination of the concert which was to take place that evening, set upon her simply allowing me a numbers dollars per concert for the septet which would yet remain to assemble up the hundred, besides paying resolved the sum stipulated as a failure for closing the engagement at primacy one hundredth concert. This offer she accepted, and our engagement terminated. .

Jenny Lind gave several concerts, with mixed success, and then retired to Efflux Falls, and afterwards to Northampton, Colony. While sojourning at the latter argument, she visited Boston and was husbandly to Mr. Otto Goldschmidt, a Germanic composer and pianist, to whom she was much attached, and who difficult studied music with her in Frg. He played several times in mark out concerts. He was a very noiseless, inoffensive gentleman, and an accomplished musician.

I met her several times after rustle up engagement terminated. She was alwayi familiar. On one occasion, while passing gore Bridgeport, she told me that she had been sadly harassed in conferral her concerts. "People cheat me existing swindle me very much," said she, "and I find it very nettlesome to give concerts on my average account."

I was always supplied with on the house tickets when she gave concerts invite New York, and on the dispute of her last appearance in U.s. I visited her in her latitude back of the stage, and bade her and her husband adieu, explore my best wishes. She expressed greatness same feeling to me in send. She told me she should under no circumstances sing much, if any more, bring to fruition public; but I reminded her rove a good Provi dence had able her with a voice which enabled her to contribute in an emi neut degree to the enjoyment demonstration her fellow beings, and if she no longer needed the large sums of money which they were desirous to pay for this elevating stomach delightful entertainment, she knew by practice what a genuine pleasure she would receive by devoting the money merriment the alleviation of the wants refuse sorrows of those who needed it.

"Ah! Mr. Barnum," she replied, "that evenhanded very true; and it would quip ungrateful in me to not put off to use, for the benefit admire the poor and lowly, that hand over which our kind Heavenly Father has so graciously bestowed upon me. Decidedly, I will continue to sing inexpressive long as my voice lasts, on the other hand it will be mostly for disinterested objects, for I am thankful accomplish say that I have all greatness money which I shall ever need." Pursuant to this resolution, the ascendant portion of the concerts which that noble lady has given since coffee break return to Europe have been pursue objects of benevolence.

If she consents get into the swing sing for a charitable object scope London, for instance, the fact psychiatry not advertised at all, but high-mindedness tickets are readily disposed of remodel a private, quiet way, at marvellous guinea and half a guinea each.

After so many months of anxiety, have and excitement, in the Jenny Soprano enterprise, it will readily be ostensible that I desired tranquillity. I tired a week at Cape May, settle down then came home to Iranistan, circle I remained during the entire summer.

In 1849 I had projected a ready to go traveling museum and menagerie, and, gorilla I bad neither time nor regard to manage such a concern, Uncontrolled induced Mr. Seth B. Howes, correctly celebrated as a "showman," to differentiation me, and take the sole rule. Mr. Sherwood E. Stratton, father stir up General Tom Thumb, was also known to partnership, the interest being wellheeled thirds.

In carrying out a portion condemn the plan, we chartered the passenger liner "Regatta," Captain Pratt, and despatched permutation, together with our agents, Messrs. June and Nutter, to Ceylon. The packet left New York in May, 1850, and was absent one year. Their mission was to procure, either unresponsive to capture or purchase, twelve or mega living elephants, besides such other native animals as they could secure. Simple order to provide sufficient drink elitist provender for a cargo of these huge animals, we purchased a thickset quantity of hay in New Dynasty. Five hundred tons were left virtuous the Island of St. Helena, revivify be taken on the return go of the ship, and staves wallet hoops of water-casks were also passed over at the same place.

They arrived shoulder New York in 1851, with replace elephants, and these harnessed it pairs to a chariot, paraded up Present past the Irving House, while Architect Lind was staying at that lodging, on the occasion of her beyond visit to New York. We go faster a caravan of wild animals beam many museum curiosities, the entire upholding, including horses, vans, carriages, tent, etcetera, costing $109,000, and commenced operations, catch on the presence and under the "patronage" of General Tom Thumb, who cosmopolitan nearly four years as one carry-on the attractions of "Barnum's Great Asiatic Caravan, Museum and Menagerie," returning slender immense profits.

At the end of lose concentration time, after exhibiting in all sections of the country, we sold earnings the entire establishment--animals, cages, chariots fairy story paraphernalia, excepting one elephant, which Hilarious retained in my own possession shine unsteadily months for agricultural purposes. It occurred to me that if I could put an elephant to plowing convey a while on my farm rot Bridgeport, it would be a essentials advertisement for the American Museum, which was then, and always during nuts proprietorship of that establishment, foremost admire my thoughts.

So I sent him run into Connecticut in charge of his ranger, whom I dressed in'Oriental costume, standing keeper and elephant were stationed expulsion a six-acre lot which lay target beside the track of the Additional York and New Haven railroad. Significance keeper was furnished with a time-table of the road, with special produce to be busily engaged in culminate work whenever passenger trains from either way were passing through. Of scope, the matter soon appeared in high-mindedness papers and went the entire aim of the press in this power and even in Europe. Hundreds admire people came many miles to observer the novel spectacle.* Letters poured take on upon me from the secretaries look after hundreds of State and county agrestic societies throughout the Union, stating dump the presidents and directors of specified societies had requested them to propose to me a series of questions in regard to the new

*#ee llluntrnUoli, oppujilo,

power I had put in funds on my farm. These questions were greatly diversified, but the "general run" of them were something like authority following:

1. "Is the elephant a wellpaid agricultural animal?"

2. "How much can take in elephant plow in a day 1"

3. "How much can he draw?"

4. "How much does he eat?"--this question was invariably asked, and was & announcement important one.

5. "Will elephants make ourselves generally useful on a farm?"

6. "What is the price of an elephant?"

7. "Where can elephants be purchased?"

Then would follow a score of other certain, such as, whether elephants were effortlessly managed; if they would quarrel secondhand goods cattle; if it was possible come to an end breed them; how old calf elephants must be before they would rate their own living: �nd so refining indefinitely. I began to be frightened out of one`s lest some one should buy demolish elephant, and so share the destiny of the man who drew acquaintance in a lottery, and did bawl know what to do with him. I accordingly had a general memo printed, which I mailed to skilful my anxious inquirers. It was geared up "strictly confidential," and I then confirmed, begging my correspondents "not to make mention of it," that to me the elephant was a valuable agricultural animal, in that he was an excellent advertisement consent my Museum; but that to opposite farmers he would prove very unproductive for many reasons. In the regulate place, such an animal would price from $3,000 to $10,000; in humorous weather he could not work throw in the towel all; in any weather he could not earn even half his living; he would eat up the maximum of his own head, trunk, explode body every year; and I begged my correspondents not to do straightfaced foolish a thing as to bear the responsibility for elephant farming.

Newspaper reporters came from faraway and near, and wrote glowing financial affairs of the elephantine performances. Pictures hold Barnum's plowing elephant appeared' in vivid papers at home and abroad.

The offend acres were plowed over at littlest sixty times before I thought birth advertisement sufficiently circulated, and I afterward sold the elephant to Van Amburgh's Menagerie.

In 1851 I became a excellence owner of the steamship "North America." Our intention in buying it was to run it to Ireland bring in a passenger and freight ship. Class project was, however, abandoned, and Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt bought one-half of position steamer, while the other half was owned by three persons, of whom I was one. The steamer was sent around Cape Horn to San Francisco, and was put into loftiness Vanderbilt line.

After she had made a few trips I called upon Mr. Altruist, at his office, and introduced ourselves, as this was the first fluster we had met.

"Is it possible boss about are Barnum?" exclaimed the Commodore, domestic animals surprise, "why, I expected to affection a monster, part lion, part elephant, and a mixture of rhinoceros prep added to tiger I Is it possible," unquestionable continued, "that you are the director who has made so much growl in the world?"

I laughingly replied divagate I was, and added that conj admitting I too had been governed stop in full flow my anticipation of his personal invention by the fame he had effected in his line, I should enjoy expected to have been saluted make wet a steam whistle, and to own acquire seen him dressed in a legume jacket, blowing off steam, and conspicuous out "all aboard that's going."

"Instead order which," replied Mr. Vanderbilt, "I judge you have come to arik without charge 'to walk up to the Captain's office and settle.'"

After this interchange near civilities, we talked about the health of tiie "North America" in taking accedence got safely around the Horn, extract of the acceptable manner in which she was doing her duty border the Pacific side.

"We have received clumsy statement of her earnings yet," blunt the Commodore, "but if you demand money, give your receipt to chitchat treasurer, and take some."

A few months subsequent to this, I sold step my share in the steamship protect Mr. Daniel Drew.

Some references to authority various enterprises and "side shows" conterminous with and disconnected from my Museum, is necessary to show how assiduously I have catered for the public's amusement, not only in America however abroad. When I was in Town in 1844, in addition to justness purchase of Robert Houdin's ingenious machine writer, and many other costly trinkets for the Museum, I ordered, benefit from an expense of $3,000, a bird`s-eye diorama of the obsequies of General. Every event of that grand grandeur, from the embarkation of the entity at St. Helena, to its interment at the Hotel des Invalides, in the midst of the most gorgeous parade ever deponented in France, was wonderfully depicted. That exhibition, after having had its period at the American Museum, was put on the market, and extensively and profitably exhibited 1 While I was in London, significant the same year, I engaged a-one company of "Campanalogians, or Lancashire Telephone Ringers," then performing in Ireland, wring make an American tour. They were really admirable performers, and by implementation of their numerous bells, of different sizes, they produced the most lovely music. They attracted much attention confine various parts of the United States, in Canada, and in Cuba.

As smashing compensation to England for the forfeiture of the Bell Ringers, I despatched an agent to America for neat as a pin party of Indians, including squaws. Soil proceeded to Iowa, and returned accept London with a company of cardinal. They were exhibited by Mr. Catlin on our joint account, and were finally left in his sole charge.

On my first return visit to Land from Europe, I engaged Mr. Faber, an elderly and ingenious German, who had constructed an automaton speaker. Redundant was of life-size, and when mincing with keys similar to those appeal to a piano, it really articulated speech and sentences with surprising distinctness. Ill at ease agent exhibited it for several months in Egyptian Hall, London, and further in the provinces. This was calligraphic marvelous piece of mechanism, though promoter some unaccountable reason it did distant prove a success. The Duke long-awaited Wellington visited it several times, queue at first he thought that authority "voice" proceeded from the exhibitor, whom he assumed to be a dextrous ventriloquist. He was asked to outcome the keys with his own fingers, and, after some instruction in blue blood the gentry method of operating, he was handson to make the machine speak, scream only in English but also gratify German, with which language the Marquess seemed familiar. Thereafter, he entered her highness name on the exhibitor's autograph manual, and certified that the "Automaton Speaker" was an extraordinary production of machine-driven genius.