Pittsburg dispatch. [volume] (Pittsburg [Pa.]) 1880-1923, 1889-03-25
MUST HAVE THUNDER.

That Seems TO be the Main Reason for the
Latest Stacy Article of Rumble and
Ronr-Mr. Hunters Telephone.
In view of the present warm and close
contest for the Craftsmanship of Allegheny
Common Council, many interesting stories
have recently cropped out. While many of
them have obviously been circulated only
for political effects, yet some tales have been
told which at least make interesting read
ing, and seem to amuse the principals, if
nothing more. One of these stories alleges
that it is impossible for person, engaged IN
the same business, which President Hunter,
of Common Council, pursues, to obtain
telephone, because it might injure the trade
of the Councilmanic competitor.
A DISPATCH reporter, with a view of
getting at whatever interest there might be
in this lightweight thunder, visited the
Office of the National Cement Company,
whose name had been mentioned in con-
nection with the above rumor. Mr.. W. B.
Enos, member OF the company, was seen,
and when questioned in regard to the part
which the firm had taken in this alleged
telephone transaction, the gentleman re-
piled as follows:
Our company has large plant at Wampum,
on the West Penn road. Some months ago the
telephone company removed the pay station
which had been located there. leaving us with
out any communication with the city. Mr..
William Kirkland member of the firm, ap-
piled for telephone from here to Wampum.
Mr. Metzgar, of the telephone company,
fixed a price, and, after we had consid-
cred it. we decided to accept. What was our
surprise when we were told by Mr.. Metzgar
that we could not have the desired connection,
for the reason that somebody in the same busi-
ness presumably Mr.. James Hunter) might
be injured, because he had connection by the
same circuit. Mr.. Metzgar, however, offered
to construct us an independent line from
Wampum to New Castle, provided we were
willing to bear the cost of construction. Of
course we had to decline this rather expensive
Offer
Mr.. W. G. Hopper, senior member of the
firm, corroborated the above story, and Mr..
Kirkland could not be seen, as he does not
reside in the city.
In order that nothing partial should be
published, the reporter sought out Mr..
Metzgar After hearing the story, the latter
gentleman smilingly remarked:
"There is very little in that story"
els it not fact that many persons in the
same business have telephone connection by
means of the same circuit?' was asked.
NO, Slrj we mdhe IL d Iule W never put
two men in the same business on the same
wire, unless they have no objections
"Were you governed by any other reason
than the one given, in your refusal?" was
asked in conclusion,
mo, sir" was the reply. II was gov
erned bv that alone"
Mr., Hunter was approached on the subject
Yesterday afternoon by DISPATCH report
er, but the latter could get no reply to his
queries.
"As this interests you considerably, your
name being connected with it, have you no
statement to make?" was the reporters
question.
"No," said Mr.. Hunter; "nothing what
ever. 1 have talked enough to you report
ers, and intend to say nothing at all. Any
thing else 1 can answer for you?" he con-
cluded, with smile.