Evening star., 1912-09-01
Condolences OF
A CRATER
BY RICHARD BLACKSTONE

Enough say that, while it doesn't figure in any list
of the leading burgs of the United States it had side
walk Job in view that looked good to So put in
bid, and just before it time for the to be
let jumped a train and hiked out to see what
could do in the way of cinching things.
discovered that only two other bids had been
entered, that of the bidders hadn't come town
at ALL and that the other local who would
most likely win if | didn't get busy.
had brought a good-sized roll along-checks, you
know are worse than useless in matters of this sort
and was perfectly willing to shed the whole of it if had
But at first couldn't my way clear to getting
rid OF a single dollar to any advantage The who
had the say-so weren't good mixers. Two three of
them didn't smoke, and all gave very decided
impression that ordinary hand out play would only
make trouble Still, felt certain that there
way OF getting to them if only could find out what it
The closest approach to human being in the whole
lot the Mayor, and you may be cottoned to
him right away The third day after my arrival he
luncled with me- and after lunch invited to take
drive about town
AS far as have observed, he said, the only place
you've visited since you came among us is the City
Hall. That isn't right. | want you to see for your
self what beautiful town is and then you will
understand why we take such pride in it..
Frankly, it wasn't beautiful at all. 1t horribly
laid out the streets dirty, the houses common
place and the business buildings years behind date If
a had gone to seed, this the identical
town. But drove around the Mayor enthused
over it way that struck most absurd, until all
ii dawned me that there might be something
back OF his enthusiasm. began to light when he
remarked
THE town has done well is that its
people hang together. Every scheme that makes for
civic betterment commands their united support. And
they public spirited that they constantly
devising measures that will be helpful to the COM
munty In fact, they will vote into Office who
is not active in this respect.
You that vacant lot yonder?'' he went
well. if things go as hope there will be handsome
building it next year, devoted to the interests OF
medical research believe that every city and town.
matter how small, should have institute for
medical research Don't say anything about this though
because | haven't made my plans public yet; but in
week two | hope to announce it and call for sub
Scriptions.
He said it smoothly, plausiby. though he really
meant it. but saw what he aiming at.
II wonder, said if you would care to accept
subscription from outsider? | intensely inter-
ested in medical research myself. If you would allow
me-
My dear Sir, he exclaimed, this is very good of
YOU OF course should be only too glad How much
shall l put you down for?
Well replied modestly, Il can't afford to give
much as | should like; but if two hundred dollars
will he any help"
Most munifcent! Most munificent!" was his re-
sponse he slipped the two hundred into his pocket
And added IF, as infer from what you say,
OF your colleagues at the City Hall have sim-
lar phanthropc enterprises in mind, should be glad