Grand River times. [volume] (Grand Haven, Mich.) 1851-18??, 1851-12-30

der the name OF george w. Whlte. Ills flrst
appearance before the public, was at his native
village, where he sung his favorite song, which
was so loudly applauded Throughout the coun-
| try), entitled "My Grandfather was n wonder
ful man." He was with the circus company
about two years, during which period they visit
ed England, and he appeared before the Queen,
who presented him with beautiful horse.
"As the company returned to America, he
left them and became theatrical performer in
New York city, although, at that time, consider
ed the greatest of American clowns. This pro-
wing injurious to his health, he concluded to en-
gage in some profession But first of all he
concluded to direct his steps homeward. He
found change had taken place. His father had
been dead nearly year, and at his death willed
him the greater portion of his property, ifhe re-
turned reformed man and remained so three
years. This he resolved to do, and again resu-
med his studies He had pursued them little
over year when saw him again. He then ap-
peared to be a temperate man and everything
smiled about him. That year he graduated and
commenced the study of law at Rochester, at
which place frequently visited him. The three
years had now expired and the money wied
to him by his father was his own.
Removing to New York, he built him large
costly mansion, in Broom street, and married
highly accomplished young lady of that CITY,
The last time called upon him, was met at
the Astor House by his servants, who escorted
me to his dwelling in sublime style. The car
riage was costly, Of the latest fashion, drawn by
four elegant white steeds, and driven by col
ored servant. But 4 moment elapsed, and, with
servant at each elbow, was ushered into the
presence of Mr. and Mrs. B.. The same grand
elegance pervaded everything throughout The
furniture was the most expensive that could be
obtained, and all visible objects were none but
those which would correspond. | tarred with
him but day, and took my departure for the
south, promising to spend several days with him
on my return.
Two years rolled around before again found
myself in the Atlantic city. FASTENED to call
upon Mr.. B.. sought the number and rang
at the door, A stranger opened it, and inqui-
red if Mr.. B resided there. "No, he does
not, nor never will again" was the hasty reply.
Not understanding the sentence and the accent
upon it, desired an explanation. 1t required
but few words to satisfy my desire. "Snce he
removed to New York" said the gentleman, she
has been living upon the interest of his money.
Two weeks ago, tomorrow, he failed for $4,000
more than he was able to pay. The next NOR
ming | saw him reeing through the street his
brain crazed by the deadly poison, alcohol
Since that time | know nothing of him
whether he be dead or alive | cannot tell you.
His wife lies in yonder cemetry, her death eau
sed by the dissipation and vices Of her hus-
band"
{" | could hear no more. These words were
sufficient, and Immediately left for Rochester.
A long ride brought me to the now city of Au-
burn. AS the train neared the depot, the State
Prison was in flames. The convicts were being
removed, and slipped from the cars to look at
them. AS they passed, among them | noticed
Charles B. Never can forget that meeting.
As | gazed upon him, and thought of the change
that had taken place since we were school boys,
a tear came to my eyes, and my heart sunk with
in me.
Several years have flown since, and a thou
sand times have thought Of my first visit to
the mansion of Charles B. To-day we have
met again; and in dray cart, with an Irish boy
for servUnt and driver, take him from not the
Astor House. but the muddy street Of Dunkirk,
with crowd Of boys surrounding us, ! escort
him to humble abode. This is the history of
his life as far as am acquainted. If you will
call with me to see him tomorrow morning, you
will learn more of his past life, and that pre-
sumo which will interest you."
Promising to do so, sought my lodgings for
the night. 1t was late the succeeding morning
before we directed our steps to the house con-
tanning the hero of our tale. But, alas unfor-
tunate man, he had taken that "sleep which
knows no waking" His life's career was at an
one single mourner followed his re-
mains to the grave.
Our plain, unvarnished story is finished. Let
it be remembered by the young, and may it have
a salutary influence in enabling them to resist
temptation. It's moral is too plain to require
explanation. Rural New Yorker.
Among the masses of stuff that are floating
around as newspaper literature, are occasional
words of wisdom that are as precious as gold.
The following, by piquant writer, who signs
himself "Charles QuilP' is sermon in itselfcon-
tanning all the philosophy aad beautiful morality
Of many a volume.
"Why do you begin TO do good so far off
this is a rolling error. Begin it at the centre,
and work outward. If you do not love your
wife, do not pretend to such love for the people |
of the antipodes. Ifyou let some family grudge,
some pecadlo, some Undesirable gesture, sour
our visage towards a sister or daughter, pray
cease to preach beniicence on a large scale.-
Begin not at the next door, but within your own
your neighbor, whether relative, SER
want, or superior. Account the man you meet,
the man you are to bless. Give him such things
rs you have How can make him or her hap