New-York tribune., 1908-09-20

tfons The next day detective who had lain con-
cealed In the bushes for over twelve hours and
throughout heavy shower saw a young man ap-
proach the spot and pick up the bag. He was ar
rested and being caught with the goods" made
q detailed confession, stating that he had watched
the New York detectives through a spyglass from
his bedroom window, about half mile distant, and
when he saw most OF them go 10 dinner he sneaked
into the woods and took the bag. He proved to
be local lad who had lost his meagre savings in
get-rich- quick mining ventures He pleaded guilty
to sending the threatening letters, and was SEN
tenced to Elrnira Refornatory. The mystery solved
Mr Hewitt returned home. He said that nothing
had annoyed him so much in his life He eX-
pressed gratitude to the local detective and fervent-
" gave him s35. The detective had ruined good
overcoat.
Nr Hewitt held a large block Of stock Of the
Illinois Central Railroad and IN the Fish-Harri-
man struggle for its control he said he passed
many wretched moments. Both factions besieged
him for his proxies. and for a long time he could
not make up his mind 10 where he stood. He
said he admired Mr.. Fish as man, but thought
Mr. Hartman the greater railroad genius,
adding: Il cannot afford 10 ally myself with the
losing side" He is said TO have switched from one
faction TO the other. and then back again, but
finally decided TO aid Mr. Hartman.
Though the holder of large block of stock of
the First National Bank, of owego, and mem
Der Of the board of directors. Mr. Hewitt Rad
more than 5000 on deposit time in that
bank. He regularly attended the meetings ~.f the
board and seldom said word. He transac - his
business through New York bankers Because of
his wealth he was almost daily besieged with ap-
peals for financial assistance from varied sources.
Though discriminating in his contributions, there is
no known instance where appeal on behalf of a
worthy charity passed him unrewarded. However,
he dispensed charity with so much secrecy that
aside from the recipients of his favors. few ever
learned OF his many acts of kindness. It was not
until the Tuesday previous his death when he
gave the amount Clready mentioned to the Packer
Hospital that he ever gave large sum for a
single purpose so far is known here. He would
never contribute a penny for any project having
for its object the betterment Of Owegos industrial
interests.
a few years ago he requested to contribute
something 10 establish glove factory here. Il
was explailed to him that the factory would en-
plov only women and would be located the
street from his stables. He expressed his disap-
proval of the project stating that factories caused
strikes and doubtless the striIe-s would injure his
property However, the factory was established
hut Mr. Hewitt never became reconciled to It's
presence He contributed small sums from time to
organizations and to the fire department For the
last wear the women of the local literary clubs
have been holding fairs and other similar functions
70 raise money for building in which TO house
the C,oburn Free Library. Mr.. Hewitt gave little
financial assistance in life. but in his will be
oueathed $50. 900 TO the Coburn Free Library named
for the late Andrew Cohurn. intimate friend Of