ner than he. The _Troy Times_ once mentioned several people who said
that Mr. Sage had pointed out to them investments, of which they could
never have known but for him, each investment having yielded them
thousands of dollars. He often gives friends the benefit of his splendid
opportunities, which makes him a general favorite among all brokers. Mr.
Sage enjoys the confidence and friendship of some of the leading
operators, among whom are Jay Gould.

He is a man of marked ability, and honesty. He never fails to meet any
of his obligations, nor will he allow others to neglect theirs. Of
course, he is careful what he agrees to do, but always does just as he
agrees, regardless of cost. For this reason he is known in Wall street
as "Old Integrity." Russell Sage is a shrewd, close calculator, and is
worth many millions, the result of improving his opportunities. He is a
consistent member of the Evangelical Church, and is very charitable.
Long may such men live, for we have many worse.

CORNELIUS VANDERBILT.

Vanderbilt, a synonym for wealth and luxury. Who indeed has not wished
that he could have at least a small part of the vast wealth possessed by
the Vanderbilts? Yet, when Cornelius Vanderbilt was a boy, he enjoyed
far less privileges to make money than the majority who now look on and
wish; but Cornelius Vanderbilt differed from other boys of his age. One
difference was his strong determination.

It was then, much as it is now, boys liked to spend their money and have
a good time.

It was a common saying in the neighborhood where he lived, 'that when
Corneel. Vanderbilt concludes to do anything it will certainly be done.'
A ship stranded off the shore; young Cornelius' father took the contract
to transfer the cargo to New York city. This was a job requiring many
teams and a force of men to carry the produce to a different part of the
island where they were to be taken by water to New York. Although but
twelve years old, young Vanderbilt was given control of this part of the
work. His father, by accident, neglected to furnish him the money with
which to pay his ferriage. Here he was, a lad twelve years old, with no
money, in charge of a lot of horses which must be ferried over at a cost
of over five dollars. He hesitated but a moment; walking boldly up to
the hotel proprietor he said: "Sir, I am here without money, by
accident; if you will kindly advance me the money to pay the ferriage, I
will leave a horse