“Some people deal with graft about the way a farmer in northern
Pennsylvania dealt with an emergency,” said Mayor Weaver, of
Philadelphia.
“This farmer called on a neighbor very early one morning. The latter,
although much surprised at receiving such an early call, did not forget
his hospitality.
“‘Come in, Jake, and set down,’ he said cordially.
“‘I don’t know’s I ought,’ said Jake, but after a little more persuasion
he went. About fifteen minutes were consumed in miscellaneous discussion
of crops, when breakfast was ready.
“‘Set by, Jake, and hev a bite ter eat,’ invited the still hospitable
farmer.
“‘Now, act’ly, Silas, I don’t know’s I orter stay so long. Ye see,
’taint’s though I didn’t ’preciate yer kindness, but my roof’s afire,
and I cum over ter borrer a ladder.’”—_New York Times._