swamps. He is so fond of this sort of
food that he takes the pretty creatures by the hind legs, and before
they can say their prayers they are inside out of the cold.

[Illustration: "THE KING OF THE SWAMPS."]

The next advertisement was that of a variety show, that most stupid form
of entertainment so popular in America; the next was the announcement of
pugilists, and another one that of a "most sensational drama, in which
'one of the most emotional actresses' in America" was to appear,
supported by "one of the most powerful casts ever gathered together in
the world."

The superlatives, in American advertisements, have long ceased to have
the slightest effect upon me.

The advertisement of another "show" ran thus: I beg to reproduce it in
its entirety; indeed it would be a sacrilege to meddle with it.

TO THE PUBLIC.

_My Friends and Former Patrons_: I have now been before the public for
the past seventeen years, and am perhaps too well known to require
further evidence of my character and integrity than my past life and
record will show. Fifteen years ago I inaugurated the system of
dispensing presents to the public, believing that a fair share of my
profits could thus honestly be returned to my patrons. At the outset,
and ever since, it has been my aim to deal honestly toward the
multitude who have given me patronage. Since that time many imitators
have undertaken to beguile the public, with but varying success. Many
unprincipled rascals have also appeared upon the scene, men without
talent, but far-reaching talons, who by specious promises have sought
to swindle all whom they could inveigle. This class of scoundrels do
not hesitate to make promises that they cannot and never intend to
fulfill, and should be frowned down by all honest men. They deceive
the public, leave a bad impression, and thus injure legitimate
exhibitions. Every promise I make will be faithfully fulfilled, as
experience has clearly proven that dealing uprightly with the public
brings its sure reward. All who visit my beautiful entertainment may
rely upon the same fair dealing which has been my life-long policy,
and which has always honored me with crowded houses.

NEW UNIQUE PASTIMES. NEW HARMLESS MIRTH.
NEW COSTLY WONDERS. NEW FAMOUS ARTISTS.
NEW PLEASANT STUDIES. NEW INNOCENT FUN.
NEW POPULAR MUSIC. NEW KNOWLEDGE.

_Special Notice._

Ladies a