Dog on paper-weight. From Baxter’s Dam Corners, N.H.
]
I did not obtain my Kuppenheimer from Rochester. In fact, it had passed
through several hands before it came to me, and then, as it still had
that peculiar garment-like quality, which a real Kuppenheimer often
possesses, I wore it, myself, for several seasons. In time the patina
began to alter noticeably, but it was not thus that it acquired the
sheen I have mentioned. However, I found myself somewhat conspicuous,
and in the autumn of 1921 I placed the Kuppenheimer among my
collections, which I keep on the other side of my apartment, opposite
the window.
Now during the following winter, I happened to notice that the glass
in the larger pane of the window became defective, during an absence
of mine upon a collector’s excursion. There are a great many boys
in my neighborhood, and I am a special favorite among them. One of
them, evidently not knowing of my absence, had been trying to attract
my attention with a large pebble and the window glass had thus been
inadequate. Without thinking much of the incident, I placed the
Kuppenheimer in a position that would remedy the inadequacy of the
window.
Fellow-collectors, have you guessed the secret? In the spring I found
the Kuppenheimer to be as I have described it. That is the true
story of what is perhaps not undeservedly known as the Kilgallen
Kuppenheimer.... I never wear it now, except upon Inauguration Day, in
honor of a new President....
People say I am trustful to leave the treasure in my apartment when I
go out, but the Kilgallen Kuppenheimer is much, much too well known to
be stolen. Any thief who would even consider such a proceeding, knows
perfectly well what he would get, too.
————
THE EUROPEAN FIELD