An American correspondent writes:—“I have just finished reading a most
amusing incident, and, as it occurs in a book not likely to fall into the
hands of many of the members, I am tempted to relate it, although it
might prove to be ‘stale.’ Well, to begin: It tells of a maiden lady,
who, having arrived at the mature age of 51 without ever having seen a
railway train, decides to visit New York. The all-important day having
arrived, she seats herself calmly on the platform of the country station,
and gazes with amazement as the train draws up, takes on its passengers,
and pursues its journey. As she stares after it the stationmaster asks
her why she did not get on if she wishes to go to New York. ‘Get on,’
says Miss Polly, in surprise, ‘get on! Why, bless me, if I didn’t think
this whole concern went!’ Being placed on the next train, she proceeds
on her way, when, finally, having seen so many wonderful things, she
concluded not to be astonished, whatever may happen. A collision occurs
and the gentleman next to her is thrown to the end of the car among a
heap of broken seats. She supposes it to be the usual manner of
stopping, and quietly remarks: ‘Ye fetch up rather sudden, don’t ye?’”