Virginian-pilot. (Norfolk, Va.) 1898-1911, 1900-01-28
AFAIRY TALE.

taieS TO tell their grand children and
great-grand-c when they have
grown too old to seek nominations and
struggle for office. 1t is. a tale of the
great fairy-the greatest Of all-affcc-
tionately styled Ma Chine, and some
times Grand Ma, Chine. And the Won
der OF the story grows as I'VE contem-
plate when, where and how it all came
about.
Only a few years ago, a. vacancy oc-
CURED in a great position, second only
In honor and dignity to that of the
Chief Magistrate of the United States,
and it was agreed by all the people of
Virginia that the fittest person to fill it
comprehensive only survivor of heroic
daysworthy of his brilliant deeds in war
and his patriotic services to the Com
monwealth in peace-was Il man of
high name and lineage, famous Gene
raj and an Ex-Governor of the State
who had delivered the people from a
hateful bondage-a man of renown and
ability. whom the people proudly ac-
claimed as their favorite and choice,
one whom they trusted and loved.
But, though no man of all Virginia's
known, tried and distinguished sons
ventured to con2ete with this distin-
guished son, lit was said that he had
soul and that he had even dared to say
that 1t was his own! q statement which
offended q few pcTsoTs WHO could not
tolerate what they considered "a dan
gerous boast in this free country; and,
accordingly, they secretly consulted the
fairy, Ma Chine. as to what should be
done about it.
Defeat him!" said Ma Chine, with
confidence.
''How?", asked the few. very eagerly.
There is no known man in Virginia
who can stand before him. He is the
idol of the people!'
True enough!" replied Ma Chine,
cheerfully; land therefore we Will take
an unknown mantle most unknown
and obscure man in Virginia.-and de-
feat him and the people!"
This is amazing. if true!" exclaimed
one of the few. who was called Boss.
"Of course it is true" said the fairy.
I'VE can only defeat this man, who
boasts that he owns his SOUL by secret
Vaccinations and movements, and the
most unknown person will suit us best
for our purpose. as he is so obscure
that nobobdy will suspect him, he will
attract no attention; and even if it be
said that he is the competitor of the
great favorte, that will only cause de-
rision and laughter
II have the man for the occasion!"
cried the Boss eXubtingly.
Let me see and examine him, then"
suggested Ma Chine.
SO said. so done.
"IIe looks it," exclaimed Ma Chine.
But L will ask him a few questions.
to make assurance double sure"
The unknown humbly stood forward.
do you own your soul?" inquired
the fairy blandly.
II haven't even got any" was the
satisfactory and conclusive response,
which evoked much applause.
'-ffuvc you ever, m pctrce OF war,
written, said, or done anything?" asked
Ma Chine
Never, and I don't intend to-" the
unknown answered.
why this man beats the Indian
efllgics in front of our toDacco-shops!"
affirmed the fairy with delight. He'll
do! All he needs now is to announce
himself, DISTRIBUTE HIS RECON-
AIENDATIONS AND EXHIBIT MY
BRAND. WHICH NOW PLACE
UPON HIS EXPANSIVE CHEEKY"
The unknown squealed Il little as the
hot iron was applied.
Whats his name?" asked Ma Chine.
That's OF no consequence" said
Boss. Enough that he bears the
brand. for in that sign he will overcome
all opposition henceforth and forever"
How about the pcople?" muttered
the unknown.-to which there was re-
Spouse of uproarious laughter; and Ma
Chine said: What joke"
And the little man who had written
nothing. said nothing and done nothing,
maintains his record: but he has Il
grand reputation for all the abilities,
virtues and performances. manufac-
'tured for him out of the whole cloth by
his panegyrists I3x Nihile Mill fit.
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