The Birmingham age-herald. [volume] (Birmingham, Ala.) 1902-1950, 1905-01-06

w tention to the fact that the be-
quests of American philanthro-
pists to charitable, educational and SINH
lar objects has decreased every year
since 1901. In 1901 the total of gifts
reached s123.sSs 1872; in 1902 it was ST. 1877 1857;
In 1903, S6,934. 97s: in 1904, $46,2ss,9 $50. OF
the funds devoted to philanthropic pur-
poses in 1904 about one-fourth, 81, 24S 23O,
came from one man, Andrew Carnegie.
Very naturally the question is asked,
What has brought about this unusual
state of affairs? There is no reason to
believe that the country is any poorer
now than it was in 1901. AS a matter of
fact, we are getting richer every day,
ana from every part of the country come
reports of industrial prosperity and COM
mercial progress. It has been suggested
that perhaps men of wealth in their en-
thusiasm have been giving more than
tney are able to maintain, or perhaps the
giving fad" is on the wane. Another
probable answer is that the people who
give money are becoming more and more
reluctant to have their names heralded
abroad by sensational newspapers Then,
too, no accurate statistics can be COM
piled, for the simple reason that true
charity doesn't proclaim itself to the
world and many thousands of dollars
are given away every year in small be-
quests that are not recorded among the
lavish donations of such men as Rookie
Teller and Carnegie At any rate, let US
hope that the marked decrease shown
in the national philanthropies is not due
to increasing stinginess. but to the
growth Of modesty.
Or course Missouri should play promi-
nent part In the inaugural ceremonies at
washington, August T. For the first
time In thirty-six years the state has
gone republican. and for that achieve
ment 1t certainly deserves more than
passing consideration at the hands of
the powers that be. The Show Me club
might be prevailed upon to march In the
parade; President Francis should GER
tainly grace the inaugural ball. and as
sort OF aftermath to the big show.
thoroughly In keeping with the circus at
mosphere enveloping Mr.. Roosevelts in
might be set down In the capital for an
engagement. It has not been determined
exactly how Missouri will be honored
next March, but her distinguished citi-
zens should be given a place of honor
when they march on Washington.
Here comes forth another crank who
would disgrace this land with the foul
appellation of "Usama," an unpardon-
able and uncalled for corruption of U.
s. A. For the benefit of those who ought
to know better it is hereby announced
that fanatics who thirst after the fame
o. oestowing a new name on this country
VIII continue to thirst for some time.
The fall of Port Arthur has furnished
inspiration to many able cartoonists in
the land who have drawn pictures worthy
OF their art. 1t is not surprising that one
of the most striking cartoons of this
character came from the pen of Daven-
port. THE Price of Victory is worthy
of the master who created 1t and recalls
Mr. Davenport's earlier work. before he
began his campaign against the DEM
ocratic party in the last presidential cleo
ton.
An Ohio man failed to win prize at
pigeon Shoot and then went home
to try shot at himself Thanks to his in
ability as a marksman. he still lives.
Next time this gentleman feels disposed
to shuttle off the mortal coil he should
try rope stout piece of hemp pos