On a Georgia railroad there is a conductor named Snell, a very clever,
sociable man, fond of a joke, quick at repartee, and faithful in the
discharge of his duties. One day as his train well filled with
passengers, was crossing a low bridge over a wide stream, some four or
five feet deep, the bridge broke down, precipitating the two passenger
cars into the stream. As the passengers emerged from the wreck they were
borne away by the force of the current. Snell had succeeded in catching
hold of some bushes that grew on the bank of the stream, to which he held
for dear life. A passenger less fortunate came rushing by. Snell
extended one hand, saying, “Your ticket, sir; give me your ticket!” The
effect of such a dry joke in the midst of the water may be imagined.
—_Harper’s Magazine_.