Judge Allen of southern Illinois, a leading member of Congress a
half-century ago, during a recent address to the old settlers of
McLean County related an incident of early days on the Wabash.
Population was sparse, and the common school was yet far in the
future. The teacher who could read, write, and "cipher" to the
"single rule of three" was well equipped for his noble calling.
Lamentable failures upon the part of aspirants to attain even
the modest standard indicated, were by no means of rare occurrence.
Back in the thirties, an individual of by no means prepossessing
appearance presented himself to Judge Allen's father, the Magistrate,
Ruling Elder, and _ex-officio_ school director for his precinct,
and asked permission "to keep school." Being interrogated as to
what branches he could teach, the three R's--readin', 'ritin', and
'rithmetic--were, with apparent confidence, at once put in
nomination.
"Have you ever taught geography and English grammar?" was the next
inquiry.
With a much less confident tone, as he had probably never heard of
either, he replied:
"I have teached geography some, but as for English grammar, I wouldn't
'low one of 'em to come into my school-house. _'Merican grammar
is good enough for me!"_
"SWEET ALICE, BEN BOLT"
A touching scene occurred in the House of Representatives a number
of years ago, when an aged member from New Jersey arose, and for
the first time addressed the Speaker. All eyes were turned in his
direction as he stood calmly awaiting recognition. He was tall,
spare, and erect. His venerable appearance and kindly expression,
coupled with most courteous manners, at once commanded attention.
As in husky tones he again said, "Mr. Speaker!" there came from the
farthest end of the Great Hall in a whisper but distinctly heard
by all, the word, "Sweet Alice, Ben Bolt." A moment later, and
from the floor and gallery many voices blended in the familiar
refrain, "Don't you remember sweet Alice Ben Bolt?"
The ovation which immediately followed was such as is rarely
witnessed in the Great Hall. Business was suspended for the moment,
and the hand of the new member warmly grasped by the chosen
representatives of all parties and sections. It was an inspiring tribute,
one worthily bestowed. The member was Thomas Dunn English, author
of the little poem, sung in palace and cottage, which has found
its way into all languages, and touched all hearts.