davidaulloa/AmericanStories huggingface dataset:
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
STAINS CLAIM ON CUBA.
Resources of Island Inadequate To Pay
 the Debt.
the New York Herald.

From the New York Herald.
 After eleven years of friendly inter- course between the Cuban and Spanish peoples. it was assumed that the debt had been relegated to oblivion. The news that the new minister from Spain to Ha- vana has been instructed to present the claim has created intense uneasiness in the island.
 The debt as we recall it, amounted in round figures to $400. 00,000 when the treaty of Paris was signed establishing the independence of Cuba That the re- sources of the island are absurdly inad- eouate to the payment of such sum or the assumption of a debt representing it-s patent. What, then, is the purpose of Spain in presenting such claim?
 It may be that the Spanish administra- ton hopes to compromise with Cuba for a portion of the debt, or it may be that the claim Is now brought forward by Spain in order to definitely dispose of the question and avoid future responsibility. While 1t has been generally assumed that the debt was repudated by the trea- ty of Paris, the holders of claims now contend that the treaty did not affect the status of the old debt.
 The fact that some of the South Ameri- can republics after successful revolutions assumed their shares of the debts incur red by Spain in the effort to maintain her sovereignty has no bearing on the case of Cuba The others voluntarily as- sumed such obligations as part of the nrice paid for their independence; but Cuba was not in that position. It was the United States, not Cuba, that fought Spain and compelled her to relinquish her sovereignty over the island.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Rules of Matrimony

The best wife is she who gives him a queen to serve.
 The best wife is she who has learned mutual concessions are better than grand principles.
 The best husband is the philosopher who knows how to accommodate himself to conditions.
 The best husband is diplomat, who, whatever he thinks of the government, serves his queen
 The best husband is he that does what he wants, but always makes his wife think she inspires his wishes.
 The best husband has:
 The freedom of a friend,
 The playfullness of son.
 The tenderness of a lover
 The attention of a stranger
 The watchfulness of a father,
 The companionship of comrade, And the best wife will respond to all; be his known and unknown companion, friend and child-all in one.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
The Billie Burke Catechism

Recently, while Billie Burke was rest interesting answers to what might be called an "autograph and answer collec- tor:
 What is your name?' Billie Burke. really and truly What is your age?"
 'Twenty-three, also really and truly Where were you born?" washington, D. C." Where were you educated?' America and other places.'' What is your favorite city?'' "The one that Is incest to me-" What is your favorite amusement?'' Bridge"
 "What is your favorite exercise?" Horseback riding" What is your favorite role"'' "Jacqueline''
 What is your favorite author?" "Have two favorites-Dickens and Ste venson."
 "Who is your favorite poet?' "Tennyson."
 "Who is your .favorite painter?' Sargent
 "Who Is your favorite sculptor?'' George Gray Barnard" "Who Is your favorte composer?' "Chaminade.''
 ''Who is your favorite actress?' 'Maude Adams" ''What is your favorite fower?" "Orchids."
 What peases you most?" Sunshine"
 What is your greatest ambition.'' ''To be happy and see lots of other people happy
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
A NICE, QUIET GAME OF BRIDGE

1 thought you ought to see it played out Mrs. Gott-Rox: T wanted to speak to hubby a moment, but I could not reach him."
 Mrs. Wynner: Partner it's your play"
 Mrs. Splash: "Is thaS your queen, part ner? Well, I'll throw off then.' As Mrs. Weeds trumps the trick with a small trump, Mrs. Wynner says:
 "Garcious partner. Didn't you know that was the last one out?'
 Mrs. Weeds: Look, partner, took q trick. Goody, goody Isn't that grand? Now it's my lead Let me see. Fourth best? No l think I'll lead this cunning little acel Yesl Here It goes!'
 Mrs. Gott-Rox: According to Elwell you should have led a smaller card.'
 Mrs. Wynner: well watch me take this trick any way, Elwell or no El- well.''
 Mrs. Splash: "Oh, listen girls. that old Mir. Adams Apple is coming to town next week, and you all have just got to help me entertain him.
 Mrs. Wynner: T think he will be suf- ficiently entertained if he is with you"
 Mrs. Splash: T just despise him, and l think his only .redeeming trait Is that he plays a good game of bridge. And he does so enjoy nice quiet game like this with fine players"
 Mrs. Weeds: Now, therel Mrs. Splash. you have made me trump Mrs. Wynner S trick when I shouldn t-tallLing about your suitor.'
 Mrs. Wynner 0aying down her hand): Well, the next three tricks are mine. Will you give them to us? There they are-ace and king of trumps and the king of diamonds"
 Mrs Gott-Rox (scoring): That gives them two odd. Partner how did that hap pen?"
 Mrs. Splash: T think you got out of that very we'll If hadn't made a mis- take and had trumped my partner queen, as I should we would have made another trick
 Several hands are played until the score stands on the rubber game 2S to 6 in favor of Mrs Wynner and Mrs. Splash. It is the latter's deal. As she performs this function Mrs. Gott-Rox says:
 Did you all hear about poor Mrs. Old Girl?"
 In unison, No; whatever is the mat ter?'
 Mrs. Gott-Rox: Don't breathe that said so; If you do I'll say you made it up-but the report Is all owe rtown that she and her husband are going to sepa rate"
 Together, again they ask: What is the trouble?"
 Mrs Gott-Rox: That old beast of husband! He is in love with some one else and treats her shamefully, and l don't blame her. Now, if that was Charlie"
 Mrs. Wynner (excitedly): Whose deal is it?"
 Mrs. Weeds: 'I am awfully sorry to break up a perfectly good game of bridge, but I have a luncheon engage ment at the club at 1:3O. and it's nearly that now. Can I take any of you home in my carr"
 "Oh, thought you would stay to lunch con with me- said the hostess, but each declining they make ready to depart.
 Mrs. Splash: Isn't 1t just too lovely that we are all such good friends and enjoy nice quiet little game every now and then? Do come to me on Tues day next and I shall expect you to remain for luncheon. Afterward we can jump into kimonas and talk to our hearts con- tent. We are interrupted so often this way"
 (Exit each.)
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Norway's British Queen

It is now 12 years since Princess Maud of Wales became Princess Charles of Den- mark, on July 22. and three since she went to Norway to ascend the throne.
 The Norwegian court Is, perhaps, the most suitable royal atmosphere in Eu- rope for Queen Maud. The life Is very simple, and free from irksome formality. Her Majesty is a strong believer in out door sports-such as riding on horseback or bicycle, skiing and skating.
 The Crown Prince Olaf-often called "rhe Pride of Norwayn-sh already in his parents desire for simplicity, all though his fifth birthday only occurred recently.
 During one of the state afternoon recep- tions. which are very homely affairs, he noticed two ladies sitting quietly in a corner. Fearing that they might feel neglected, he took over to them a great auburn of photographs. These he pointed out as, My Cousin A." and Aunt B. Finally he turned to a page containing a portrait of himself.
 That he remarked shyly, lis a pie ture of a little boy called Olaf"
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
New Dressing Tables

The homemade dressing table has been regarded with contempt and scorn for decades. It was one of the daily jokes directed toward writers on matters fem mine. Now it is neither a joke nor an object of scorn. It has been revived in a glorifed form in some of the smart houses of this millionaire age.
 To describe one is like repeating the famous formulas which have been tested about: take a pine box, cover it with lowered stuff and hang a mirror above it.
 AS this suggestion is carried out today there Is nothing simple about 1t either in time or money. No one attempts to do 1t at home. It is put into the hands of a professional decorator.
 The foundation Is made of plain pine on wide generous lines. From the two up- rights is swung a huge square mirror of the best quality, framed in three inches of pine.
 All the woodwork is carefully covered with an exquisite design of old English chintz with a dull finish. The pasting of this fabric on the frame of the mirror and the wooden uprights is job for an expert. The rest of the work Is sim pier.
 The top of the table Is covered with the material in quite smooth lines and to the edge is put deep ruffle which has three pleated rucnlngS at the hem. At top of ruffle there is kind of pannier drapery of the material, which is quite effective.
 The entire top of the dressing table Is covered with a thick sheet of plate glass, which Is the new touch on all bureaus, tables and desks.
 English chintz is not always used for these dressing tables. Some are covered with all-over lace on a foundation of IF gil if I1a color scheme of the room.
 The English and French country houses have these immense dressing tables draped with soft fabric, and it is only natural that the American houses should go back to them.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20

1 chair? What? They each decline, say l ing that they'd rather play bridge than l do anything on earth and they hate so 1 to be interrupted) Picking up her hand Mrs. Weeds re- fleets aloud: Let me see. This is the most peculiar hand I ever saw. Excuse me a minutel I really don't know what to make it. I believe though I'll make 1t no-tru-s. No, I won't either. Elwell says, Always consult the score before ], you declare trumps.' Mrs. Gott-Rox what is the scorer Mrs. Gott-Rox (sarcastically)-That was the first hand we've played or attempted to play.
 Mrs Weeds-Then I just won't make it no trumps.
 Mrs. Wynner-what is the trump, Mrs. Weeds?
 Mrs. weeds-I passed 1t. What shall 1t be- partner?
 Mrs. Splash-( -(fdgeting and jumping up and down in her chair)-Oh, if 1t was only my make! have the most beautiful hand you all have ever seen Just my luck though not to be my make. Mrs. -Rox-Well, I wish it was your make for I haven't a thing. Partner, what did you pass 1t to me for? Burning to Mrs. Splash and f1ourishing a card) Well, l am not going to make It that. l know you are dying for me to. But l shall
 
 Mrs. Weeds-Goodnessl partner, I am sorry. You know how I despise hearts. I was just crazy for you to make it no trumps
 Opening her gold vanity case and pow dering her nose, and then looking at herself in the tiny mirror, Mrs. Wynner had almost forgotten that a bridge game was going on, until Mrs. Splash says:
 "Its your converse tion, partner"
 Mrs NVUnnPr-(aS she grabs her cards)-What did they make it? Hearts? :? We'll I'll double Hearts are my long suit Are my opponents satisfied?
 Upon being informed that they were. she proceeds to play and as Mrs Gett- Rox is dummy she arises saying:
 Now, partner, that is pretty hand that I am putting down for you, and you ought to make at least three.
 Delivering herself of this speech she announces that she has to telephone. And at once leaves the game and proceeds to the phone which is well to the rear of the house.)
 As soon ss she is safely out of hear ing Mrs Splash says:
 Girls, have you all heard about old MT. Gott-Rox?"
 No" answers Mrs. wynner and Mrs Weeds in unison. Do tell us.''
 Mrs. Splash: Well. if you all ever say I told you I will never speak to either OI you dBdln. got IL III d FOuuud- bout way and of course, I don't believe word of 1t, but they do say that that pretty Mrs. Flirty Is just wild about him and that he is crazy about her"
 Mrs. Wynner; "Ah. poor Mrs Gott-Rox. She Is so sweet and good, and even if she is not attractive she is his wife and he ought to be ashamed of himself to carry on with any one else" Mrs. Splash: Exactly what I said when I heard it."
 Mrs Weeds: well, while I consider Mrs. Gott-Rox an awfully nice woman, I certainly think she talks about other people terribly and this Is a just retribu tion."
 Mrs Wynner and Mrs. Splash: Flush sh-sh. Here she comes"
 Turning to Mrs. Gott-Rox, as she ap- pears, Mrs. Wynner says
 Come dear, we want to see this very interesting hand, and as we know what an authority you are on bridge we
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Love at First Sight

'Is love at first sight possible?" is usually the subject that interests the maid of tender years. Of course it is possible. But what strikes one as love at the moment is, says writer, more likely to be mere infatuation.
 When the heart is awakening young girls are apt to magnify the merest tri- fles. A tender glance Is bestowed upon them which starts a palpitation that dis turbs the rest, and the maid asks her self fearfully, 'Is 1t love?"
 Almost all things that are stated of love are possible, for being the greatest thing in the world, It's influence Is bound less. It is possible for one to love at 15, and another never to feel the same pas sion until 40.
 So much depends on one having some- one to love- for, until the someone comes whose heart-chords strike in unison with ours, our love lies hidden, even from our selves.
 Love at first sight is rare and not to be coveted. For one real case there are a hundred false ones, and these usually result in unfortunate, nasty marriages There is nothing so profitable as real
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Affection That Lasts

There is a violation of the very foun- dation of all pure and noble womanli- ness in the life of a coquette. Today seeink to charm one, and tomorrow an- other says popular writer.
 Love does not come to abide through any such endeavors. He who purpose ly seeks a wife because he believes he shall be happier and better for the companionship of a good woman is not won by the toss of a pretty head or the charm of sparkling eyes. And he who, being worthy himself. goes on his ear nest way, not seeking wife, but who suddenly finds that one dear girl has become the dearest creature in the world to him, does not choose her be- cause she evinced a desire to keep him at her side, but for the sake of those pure, gentle, unselfsh thoughts and deeds which stir him to try 10 be a better man for her sake.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
What Dreams Mean

Bathing-To dream you are bathing foretells riches, prosperity and health.
 Rowng-To dream you are rowing in a boat denotes that you will be succesaf full in love and business.
 Spinning-To dream of spinning is good and shows a person to be diligent and industrious.
 Sun-To dream you see the sun shine foretells the acquisition of riches; also success to the lover.
 Sweetheart-If a man dreams of his sweetheart and she seems to be more beautiful than usual, it Is a sign that she is constant and true.
 Undertaker-To dream of an under taker is a sure sign of marriage in the family.
 Wood-To dream you are walking or sitting in wood with your sweetheart is a sign that you will soon be married.
 Wren-To dream of this little bird Is good. You are sure to nave at least one loyal friend
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Eve Up-To-Date


 The newest directoire collar shows a marked improvement In finish. At the base of a thick ruching 1t has a soft bon ending in a bow 1t is drawn through a long gilt or jet buckle in front, cas- cade or a fluffy iabot displaying itself down the front of the waist.
 Monogram barrettes are the latest nov elites in this line.
 Back combs have their fancy tops hinged so that they may be worn as eoronets.
 Ribbons woven of gold are the dernier cri in chains.
 Dog callars have become very popu- lar again since the advent of the Dutch collar and low-necked frock.
 Lockets and crosses, the old fashioned kind are again seen on modishes.
 Figured mulls are the prettest of sum- mer creations and made over the solid color princess slip are very smart.
 Raineoats for fair as well as foul wealth CT are in cobalt blue and dull red and trimmed with gilt buttons.
 Combination directoire underwear Is used more than ever on account of the tube gowns
 The first suggestion of fullness in the new clinging skirt is the manner in which
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Quaint Garden Baskets

Garden baskets of most attractive shape are among the popular gifts of the sea- son for girls. While by no means new in England, they have just made their ap- pearance in this country and are useful as well as pretty.
 Trays, they might almost be called. 30 shallow are they, and all suggest the old English novels wherein the heroine goes forth to the rose gardens, basked on arm and shears in hand, to make a picture when the hero appears
 Willow or rattan composes them, and they are in browns and greens as well as natural colors. Some of the baskets are about 16 inches long and 10 across, the rim being only about inches high. The handle is without exception very high. that it may slip over the arm, allowing the basket itself to be within easy reach of the other hand without the effort of lifting. These trays are both oval and squared at the corners.
 Particularly quaint are some suggest i've of big walking stick with tray stuck through. The cane has crook sufficiently large to slip over the arm.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Bordered Window Curtains


 The border fad has extended even tn
 housefurnishings. and now the smart no- ton Is to have broad strips of silk or tapestry edging the madras or fishnet window draperies. Often old portieres or couch covers of impossible passe pattern may be utilized in this way, the tapestry designs being quite smart in border eff feet, while they would prove-according to the mandates of the art noveau-hid- eous as solid hangings. The border fad is carried even as far as decided stripes. Some very clever curtains in a brown walled studio were of plain colored silko- lines in bayadere stripe effect. the half yard widths of silkoline crossing the cur tain horizontally and being sewed to- gether with narrow fiat seams. The col ors started at the bottom with a deep brown. soft red tones following; then or ange and, lastly, quite near the top Of the window, sunny yellow. The cur tains have been much admired by the friends of the artist who originated them.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
DoIly's Dialogues

The Modern Mrs. Malaprop: You needn't tell me anything about this new pnesmerized linen. I shall never use it in any of my cogitations,' A young girl they called Arabella, Was quite affectionate and mellow; She was charmed to spoon By the light of the moon These pretty June nights with her fellow. SAD, IF IN A PROHIBITION TOWN. That fellow over there is humorist.' "Yes, but his humor is so dry-it makes me thirsty"
 Success does not consist of getting what you want, but what other people want. Look at the sweet girl graduate over there. She has just returned from fash ionable finishing school
 What did she learn?'
 How to give the quick finish to all those who won't do."
 Flattery is like perfume-to be smelled of but not swallowed
 Saying what one ought to say is the art of conversation.
 CwITH THE PROPER APOLoGIES) l never had a fountain pen,
 To glad me with it's smooth black flow, But when it got to writing well It vanished-where, l do not know. Attractive women are the players in the theatre of life, plain women the critics.
 Most things come too late to those who wait.
 THE PRAYER OF THE GAME"
 GAS Gelett Burgess Sees It) Not the quarry, but the chase; Not the laurel, but the race. Not the hazard, but the play, Let me, Lord enjoy alwayl
 Many a true word is spoken in dia- feet.
 If the good die young, Methuselah must have had his innings in the gay whirl. f'IN THE GOOD OLD SUMMERTIME.' '' Wouldn't you like to be an angel And never do a thing But practice daily on a harp,
 And sing, and sing, and sing?
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
The German Baby

When a German baby is born it is not allowed out of doors for weeks. Air and sunlight are considered dangerous at first, and so is soap, and even an immod- crate use of water. For eight weeks 1t lies day and night in the stecklxissen-a long bag that confines it's legs and body, but not its arms. Unless you looked closely you would take the bag for a long robe. too, and if people have the means, as costly, for you can ceck your bag with ribbons and laces as easily as your robe
 The real ruler of the German nursery is the family doctor He keeps his eye on the Inexperienced mother, calls when he sees fit and watches the baby's weight.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20

wide and extend from the floor of tho cellar to ceiling
 At one end should be a door feet wide provided with a spring lock. Inside, running around the side and end, are two shelves of the wire netting, the first feet high, the second from IS inches to feet above 1t.
 Underneath is ample space for Baskets garden tools and other utensils that are better locked away from dishonest ash men and mischevious children. On one of the shelves can go boxes and crates of vegetables, jars of preserves and canned goods. Any of these latter that should be kept dark can be wrapped in paper, or a box with a hinged door can be provided for them
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
The Well-Gloved

Always buy your gloves at a special ist's, in preference to an ordinary dra- pers
 Always in putting on a new glove turn 1t back an inch below the opening. and gently insert the fingers, working them well in then the thumb, and after ward the entire glove must be drawn on from the back only. Then button it, be- ginning with the second button and end ing with the first.
 If a glove Is put on carefully in the first instance, there need be no further trouble.
 Always draw your gloves off from the wrists, in order that they may be turned inside out, in which position leave them until aired. Then turn, and lay them full length in a box.
 Mend gloves with fine colored cotton.
 Resew the buttons of new gloves as they are generally simply tackled on.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
HAIR REMOVERS
 ARE DANGEROUS

Ladies should be most particular in choosing hair remover and learn first what reputable authorities know about 1t.
 In treating supernuous hair 1t is of vital importance that the agent to be employed should be absolutely nom poisonous antiseptic and germicfdal because if 1t Is not so with frequent use 1t will produce eczema or blood poisoning.
 De Miracle is the only hair remover that offers proof that 1t Is harmless, safe and sure. Don't be deceived by startling statements made by fax 6 FREE advertisers and oth CTS. De Mira cle is sold by Collier Drug Co.,, and all other good stores, or booklet in plain sealed envelope by De Miracle Chem. Co, Desk H. 10, 1903 Park avenue, New York.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Gentle June

Gentle June,
 Time to spoon. It's the old, old fairy story; Empty purse,
 What curse, Not single night of glory. Gentle June
 Wooing moon, Sounds so wondrous and alluring, Stick to work,
 Like a Turk Cuss the grindstone that's enduring. Gentle June,
 Makes him fume, For his love is up to ''boiling." She's "a peach,
 At the beach, While in town he's simply boiling.
 Florida Times-Unon.
The Birmingham age-herald., 1909-06-20
Frying In Deep Fat

Frying things in deep fat" said a housekeeper the other day. holds no ter TOTS for me as 1t once did. learned an excellent way of overcoming the trouble some sputtering which, when I dropped the croquets in the kettle of hot fat, so often meant a sadly burned hand. southern nanny told me the secret. She always sits just a little flour into the fat before putting any foodstuffs into it. I followed her suggestion and have never had any difficulty in this regard since It is such a simple little thing, and yet may save one many an hour of suffering"