es, but if I know where north is, what in time do I want a compass
for?"

--Sunday-school teacher: "And when the wicked children continued
mocking the good prophet, two she bears came out of the mountain and
ate up over forty of the wicked children. Now, boys, what lesson
does this teach us?"
Jimpsy Primrose: "I know."
Teacher: "Well, Jimpsy?"
Jimpsy Primrose: "It teaches us how many children a she bear can
hold."

--Cousin Nell (inculcating generosity): "Supposing your chicken
should lay a nice egg, Tommy; would you give it to me?"
Tommy: "No; I'd sell it to a dime museum. That chick's a rooster."

--A corn dodger--The careful dancer.

--"Had I better make a list of the prize cows and pigs?" asked the
secretary of an agricultural fair.
"Yes," replied the president. "Cattle hog them."

* * * * *
* * * *
* * * * *

OUR LETTER BOX.

TANITE.--The flag signals used by the U.S. Signal Service to designate
the state of the weather were fully explained in No. 11 of the volume
just ended. They do not vary in the different cities, the code holding
good for every portion of this country.

QUI VIVE.--Bowditch is the standard authority on navigation, and all the
theoretical knowledge necessary can be gained by a close and persistent
study of his work on that subject. The best way for a boy to learn it
practically is to enlist as a naval apprentice on one of the United
States training ships.

SKATER.--First, place coal oil on the rusted skates and allow it to
remain until the rust becomes softened, after which it can be easily
removed by rubbing with fine sand paper or emery cloth. After using,
they should be wiped dry and then rubbed with an oily rag before being
placed in the case, or flannel bag.

M.P.J.--1. Rabbit skins are extensively used in making hats, caps and
muffs, and for lining garments of various kinds, such as circulars,
overcoats and the like. They are dressed in the usual manner, the fur
being dyed to imitate many of the higher grades procured from the
ermine, beaver and other animals. 2. An article on electro-plating was
given space in No. 23 of the last volume.

G.E.B.--Several manuals relating to the use of fire-arms of various
kinds are obtainable from book dealers in various parts of the country.
The most expert rifle and revolver shots have gained all their knowledge
by actual practice, placing no depen