Reading Times from Reading, Pennsylvania • Page 1

1 sr AN C7CXTAXT FAST. ANOTHER IMPORTANT FACT. NEARLY THE ENTIRE PRESS OF THE STATE UNITE IN SAYINO THAT THE "TIMES" IS A MODEL OF NEAT TV POQRAPHV AS GOOD AS THE EST. THt "tim" masthk bulk orrracin CULATION AMONtt TMC nUKNUI HOMt owNina pioplc. it is ciiam, PUBLIC SPINITID, PHOQIIKMIVB.

VOLUME 79. NO. 79. MONDAY MOKNING, JANUAItY 4, 1897. TEN CENTS A WEEK.

BATTLE FOR THE THE DEATH RECORD. MACEO STILL REPORTED ALIVE. AGAIN IN HIS FIERCE STORUS AT THE WEST. BOOKS. Look at This! SENATORSHIP.

AN UN USUALLY LARGE NUMBER DURING PAST TWO DAYS. REV. DR. HECKMAN'S SUNDAY MORN ING SURPRISE TO HIB FLOCK, Sims StiU Nq UMi Chtnge In tha Situation tiisling it HarrisBurg. BLMEWRC'S OFFER.

The Head of the Business Men' League Proposes that the Voter of PhlladeU phis, at the Primary Election on Janu Bty 18, Vote a to their Choice for Sena' tor, the Iteault to Control the Vote of the Philadelphia Delegation in the Lee islntnre. Harkisbcrg, Jan. 3. There has been no change in the Senatorial situation since last night. Claims and counter claims have been made by the respeC' tive sides, bnt there has been no actual gain by either side so far as the outside public can know, several doubtlul members have come out for Penrose or Wananiaker, but their positions were pretty well understood before they an nounced themselves, and tne enect lias not been pronounced lor either side.

There was considerable talk last night in connection with arrests on bribery charges, but if any were contemplated they were abandoned for the present. It is stated to night that Detective Mc fSweeney, of Scrnnton, has a warrant for the arrest of Dr. Mackey, one of the Lackawanna county members, on the charge of accepting a bribe. It is also understood that a warrant is iu the hands of detectives for the arrest of a Wilkes Barre saloon keeper, who is charged with having bribed delegates to the various Legislative conventions of Luzerne county. Dr.

Mackey told the United Associated Presses correspondent to night that he was not hunting trouble at all, bnt that be was ready for his accuser at any time. It is stated that a warrant will be served on him in the morning. Detective McSweeny is still at the Lochiel, and there are detectives at every turn. The Penrose managers are confident to night that they have their light won with a large margin of votes to spare. Representative V.

O. Jefleison, who had hcen claimed by the Wana mnker people, is here to night and has aligned himself with the Penrose people. Kepresentative Martin, of Lawrence county, who deserted the Penrose camp yesterday and announced his intention to support Wanamaker.has reconsidered, and is again lined up with Senator Quay's followers. A letter has been received at the Penrose headquarters from Senator D. B.

Mitchell, of Bradford county, who is ill at his home, in which he states that he will be found in the Penrose column at the proper time. Representative Lewis Pi ollet also of Bradford county, is also reported to be in the Penrose camp. Another member of the House who whs suspected of having Wanamaker's tendencies is William Teas, ol Montgomery county. He arrived this afternoon, and has come out strongly for Penrose. Kepresentative James Patterson, of Bucks county, has also identified himself with the Penrose people.

M.ANKENmTKH's Mr. Blankenbnrg said to day: "Ex Magistrate Durham stated last night, as reported in to day's papers, 'an overwhelming majority of the Republican voters in Philadelphia are for Penrose, and the members and Senators who have declared for him are thus representing the wishes of their This a greater nltifl" than Mr. Quay's statement that had been offered for two votes. On our challenge to expose the bribers he takes refuge behind well considered silence; he knows he has no honest answer unless it be a confession that the bribes have been offered for effect by his own people. "Xow we issue this challenge to Mr.

Durham, chief sponser and lieutenant of Mr. Penrose: Let a popular vote be taken in the city of Philadelphia at the Republican primaries on Tuesday, January 12, to give our citizens an opportunity to express their preference between Mr. Wnnamaker and Mr. Penrose. If the result shows that an overwhelming majority is for Mr.

Penrose, or even a majority of one single vote, let the whole Philadelphia delegation, in response to the popular verdict, vote for Mr. Penrose. If. on the other hand, a majority declares for Mr. Wananiaker, let the whole Philadelphia delegation vote for him.

This is a fair proposition, but it will probably not be accepted by Juay and his followers because they see that on a popular vote Mr. Wananiaker wonld secure an overwhelming majority in the city of Philadelphia, as well as in the whole State of Pennsylvania. To make this proposition still more palatable to our opponents, we will agree to bear the whole expense of this special election if Mr. Penrose secures a popular majority in Philadelphia." The several Wananiaker headquarters were closed to day in deference to the wishes of the ex Postmaster General. What Manager Durham Bnyn.

Haiikisiii ko, Jan. 3. Ex Magistrate Durham, in relation to the challenges from David Martin and Rudolph lllankenbug. said to night: "Those eminent reformers and business men, Mr. Martin and Mr.

Blankenbnrg, have evolved this primary election proposition at the eleventh hour, after a day of despair. 1 desire to Buy nothing at present, except that these interviews are but the dying yelps of the opposi fion." (Koredilltinnnl mntleron the Heimtoriiil ipies tioii see second pnKe.j SANGUINARY SPORT. Klval OniiRR of Cleveland Hoy Fight Kloody Pitched Battle. Cleveland, Ohio, Jan. "Cuba," a settlement in the southwest end of the city, has been the scene of a number of pitched battles during the past month, between two gangs of boys who call themselves Spaniards mid Cubans.

The Spaniards are about 3mt strong and the "Insurgents" about 2110. The boys fire from i' to 'JO years of age. Yesterday afternoon the two armies met, and for hall an hour they fought a tierce battle in which some of the boys were badly' injured. A train of box cars were used by the insurgents as bulwarks. A number of the boys stationed themselves on top of the cars.

They had revolvers and shots were fired. One boy was shot through the hand, another in the knee, and a third In the head. A Resumption at Johnstown. Joiinhtown, Jan. 3.

The Johnson Company's steel motor works, which have been idle lor several weeks, will resume in full next week. General Superintendent Harris authoriedthis statement to night. This means that several hundred idle men will be pnt to work. Ask for Heading Brewing old tyl Lager Beer. Tivoli and Porter.

William Phillip Die Very Suddenly rranklln Bond, James McCullough, A. Frank Tourney, and Other Weil Known In the City William Phillips died at his home, 531 Douglass street, at 0.30 oclock Saturday night very suddenly, from a dropsical affection, in his 76th year. The deceased had been ailing for some years, but on Saturday was in unusually good spirits. He had gone to the barber in the early part of the evening and upon bis return cnaited with members of his family. After 8 o'clock he retired and soon called his wife when she noticed that he was sufferine great Tain.

He said to her, "Mum, 1 must die," and with that sank back on the bed and died before the children could be summoned. A wife, Margaret, and five children survive, namely: Mrs. Mary, wife of Henry Clay; Samuel, William, George and Marry Flnllips, alt of this city. There are also twenty six grandchildren and one great grandchild. The deceased was born near Hopewell furnace, Chester county, and removed to this city fifty years since.

He was last employed at J. G. Lei bach' woolen mills, where he worked for a number of years. He was a member of Friendship circle, No. 17, B.

U. H. and bad a large circle of mends, the funeral will take place from bis late residence at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon. Arthur Tomney, 533 South Fourth street, died yesterday morning at (i o'clock from a complication of diseases aged 37 years. The deceased formerly worked at llendel's hat factory, but more recently conducted a cigar store at 310 Bingamun street.

He is survived by widow hiil lie, nee Miss Goodhart, daughter of Andrew J. Goodhart. Also John Tomney, bis father, and two brothers and sisters, all ol this city, lie was a member of Industry Council, No. IhJ, Jr. O.

U. A. Keversink Lodge, No. 1(11, American Protestant associa tion; Sinus Castle, No. Knights Golden Kagle and the Liberty Fire company.

The deceased was a well known local ball player, and was a brother of Philip Tomney, deceased, who played with the Louisville league team as short stop. James McCullough died at bis resi dence, Willow street, at 6.45 yesterday morning from a complication ol diseases, aged 50 years. Deceased had been in ill health the past four months and bedfast two weeks. He is survived by a widow, Annie: also three brothers and one sister, name'y, Frances, John and Michael McCullough, the two latter of Philadelphia, and Mrs. Bridget Kirk.

He was a member of St. Peter's It. C. church. The deceased was born in Tyrone, Ire land, and came to this conutry thirty years since.

He was a well known ironworker of Reading. franklin H. Bond, South Seventh street, died shortly after 1) o'clock, Saturday evening, of a complication of diseases, aged 25 years, i months and 2 days. Deceased had been in ill health or some time and was confined to the house for eight weeks. He is survived by his wife, Ida, and one son, Ralph, and his lather, George Bond, and a sister, Anna, of Philadelphia.

He was last employed as a laster at the shoe factory of Curtis, Jones Co. He was a memher of Grace Lutheran church, Camp 61, P. O. S. of and Progressive Lodge, No.

470, I. O. O. F. Additional Dentils on second pftRO.

WORK FOR MANY MORE MEN. Various Mills nf the Bethlehem Iron Com pany Kenuine Operation. Bethlehem, Jan. 3. After an idleness of nearly three months the blooming mill of the Bethlehem Iron compaDy started yesterday, and the steel mill and other departments, employing more than 1,000 men will resume on Monday.

The company's ordnance works will continue running day and night. A shipment of turret plates for the battle ship Iowa was made to day. A Colored Woman Fatally Stabs Her Hus imud. New YoitK, Jan. 3.

Belle Smith, col ored, 32 years old, this morning killed her husband, Jesse Smith, by stabbing him in the neck with pair ol scissors. She claimed that her husband had brutal! beaten her daughter Lizzie, six years old, and when she had run to the child's assist ance he threw her on top of the stove, whereupon site grabbed the scissors and stabbed him. A Disastrous Fire in Nashville, Tenn. Nashville, Jan. 3.

A de structive conflagration began in Ibis city last night at 11.15, and was not well under control before 3 a. in. A series of unfortunate conditions handicapped the fire department in its work, and a very strong wind playing Irom the south made matters much worse. The total estimated damage is $000, 000, of which slightly more than 50 per cent, is covered by insurance. The Weather.

Washington, Jan. 8 p. in. Forecast for Mimilny for F.nnlern Pinnniilm nin: ('lowly, irith fog anil jHiHsihli liijM hmccr Monthly; wanner; mmlhrrlg leimls, FLASHES FROM THE WIRES. The Hotel Pcermond, at Avnlon, X.

was destroyed by tire yesterday morning. Loss insurance $12, 000. At Atlantic City, yesterday, Mrs. J. Myerholl'and her daughter, Mrs.

Max I'rccniau, while out driving, were probably fatally injured by their horse running away. Sigmund Dreyfitss, of the firm of Dreytuss merchants of Milton, committed suicide yesterday afternoon by shooting himself through the bead. He had been in ill health for some time. Dr. Theodore G.

Wormley, a distinguished chemist and texiologtat and professor in these branches in the medical school of the University ol Pennsyl vnnia, died at his residence in Philadelphia yesterday, aged 70 years. Cardinal Gugliemo San el ice di Ac itiavclla, Archbishop of Naples, died at Rome yesterday. He was liberal and conciliatory, and was very popular. He was born at Aversa, April 1H, 1H23, and was created a cardinal March 21, 18H. Henry Hosted, cashier of the Union National Bank, of Liberty, committed suicide Saturday by hanging, Mr.

Husted was sixty years of age. His financial a flairs are in good condition, and as his health was good no motive can bo assigned for self destruction. Word reached New Brighton, yesterday, that James J. Davidson, Con gressiunii clcct from the Twenty filth Congressional district of Pennsylvania, died at Phiriiix, Arizona, Saturday night. Mr.

Davidson wan suffering from consumption, and went West in the hope of regaining his health. The Old Keeport Watchmaker, 635 Penn. Reports that He is Living Constantly to Havana from the Field. WEl'LER l' I BAD WAV. Spaniards Higli Indignant at His Constant Deception Open Threat that If Maceo 1 A'lve Weyler Will be Draeged Through the Street of Havana He Cannot Retarn tu Spain After the Out bnrita of Joy Over Maceo' Death.

Havana, Jan. 3, via Key West, Jan. 3. Reports that Maceo is alive are coming constantly from the field, and all tend to show that he is recuperating rapidly at the Cienja hospital, though others say at Siguanca. It appears that the project of the Cubans is, as soon as Maceo is able to move, to send nun to the United States, and a steamer has al ready been ordered for the purpose, and tlni 8 personally prove that he is alive.

Great excitement prevails in Havana over the news. It is widely discussed, and even the Spaniards are talking of the possibility ol bis being alive. A member of the Produce Exchange created a sensation the other day when ho announced the fact, and commotion followed. Weyler's position theSpan iards are highly indignautat his constant deceptions. Threats are freely made that if Maceo is alive Weyler will be dragged through the streets.

He surely cannot return to Spain after the outbursts of joy there over Maceo's death. His last foolish utterances concerning the pacification of the Pinar del Rio province have also greatly incensed the Spaniards, they knowing that it is a gross lie. The idea that there are only five hundred rebels in the province is deemed simply absurd, when Weyler personally admitted a fortnight ago that there existed at least 3,000. The Spaniards also ridicule the fact of the need of eight generals, twenty colonels and forty thousand men to crush live hundred famished rebels. The excitement over the Gnanabacoa butcheries continues, and terror stricken families are still coming into Havana, (ieorge Hyatt, another American cit.iz.eu residing in this place, has asked for protection from the United States consulate.

Other foreign residents did the same of their respective consulates. The butcheries continue, although it is said that orders have been sent to Fondevieln to stop them, in view of the publicity given tliem. A reign of terror prevails in the towns. Many residents who are unable to move into Havana nightly come to sleep in the city. Names and details are unobtairtV able, as people fear to speak.

It is only known that the victims are taken from their homes at midnight and carried to the outskirts and inaeheted. It is said that the number now exceeds hirty. There is reported friction between General Arelas and General Weyler, on I account of the former refusing to carry out the orders for the wholesale extermination of the helpless people of the district unless Weyler assumes the responsibility by reporting the same for publicity, which Weyler refuses. THE COMMODORE LOST AT SEA. The Filibuster Steamer Ones Down.

With All Her Cargo. Jacksonville, Jan 3. The filibuster steamer Commodore, which has landed successfully in Cuba several large consignments of arms and munitions ol war for the patriots, went to the bottom yesterday oil' Mosquito Inlet, on the east coast of Florida. The Commodore left Jacksonville on Thursday night, having been regularly cleared by the Customs authorities to carry a cargo ol arms and ammunition to the port of Nuexitas, Cuba. On Fiiday she was found stuck in the mud three miles below the city.

She was pulled oil' the shoal by the United States Revenue Cutter Houtwell, which conveyed her safely across St. John's bar. Lnter Capt. Murphy was astounded to discover the hold full of water. He immediately set the crew to work bailing with bucket) uud started up the steam pumps, but to no purpose.

The water rapidly gained and fi ally extinguished the fires while the vessel was yet a long distance from the shore. It was then imperative that the men should take to the boats, which they did, leaving the ill fated Commodore to her doom. Some of the Crew Lost. Jacksonville, Jan. 3.

All of the crew of the Commodore were not saved, as reported last night. Twelve are at Jacksonville, three alive and one dead are at Daytona, four are reported to have arrived near Ormond, bnt the report is not confirmed, and eight are at sea on life rait. Captain Murphy, Stephen Crane, the novelist, C. B. Montgomery, the cook, and William 'Higgings, a stoker, landed at Daytona this morning.

Their boat was turned over in the surf, and lliggins received a wound which raesed his death shortly after getting ashore. The party on the raft are all Cubans. They left the boat before Captain Murphy's party, and nothing more has been heard of them. J. M.

Burrs requested the collector ol customs to secure permission lor the Three Friends to go to the rescue of the Commodore, which permission was granted to night and the Three Friends Icl'l at once. AVOIDED PUBLICITY. The Daughter nf iiltl liiinaire Hpreckels I'rlvately Married. SAN Fhancisoi, Jan. 3.

Miss F.inmii Kprcckcls, the only daughter ol Clans Spreckcls, the multi millionaire sugar planter, ship owner and railway promoter, and Mr. Thomas Watson, a well known broker of this city, were quietly married in San Jose on Wednesday last. Desiring to avoid the publicity and pomp inseparable from society weddings, the bride and groom determined to surprise their friends, and they succeeded. When Mr. and Mrs.

Watson returned to San Francisco, last evening, the announcement nf their union was made public for the first time, and created a mild sensation in society, where both are very prominent. OUR TlAvT 0 A I DTP A I The Dolphin and Vesuvius to Go to Florida. Washington, Jan. 3. The dispatch boat Dolphin has been ordered to leave Washington last night to cruise along the Florida coast and look ont for filibusters.

As soon a she can be made ready the dynamite gunboat Vesuvius will be scut to supplant the naval and revenue cutter force, and, if necessary, the torpedo boats dishing and Kricssou will speedily follow them. James 8. Brusstar, shirt maker, 713 and 7I" Penn street. Headquarters for nil kinds of shirts Recovered Sufficiently from a Serious 111 nes to Preach an Eloquent Sermon Win. H.

Wells, of Princeton, Preaches in the Evening. After being confined to his home for the past three months with a serions at tack ol rheumatism, Kev. George Heckman, D.D., L.L. pastor ol the First Presbyterian church, agree ably surprised the members of his congregation Sunday morning by appearing in his pulpit and conducting the morning service. Dr.

Heckman was accompanied by William H. Wells, a student at Princeton Theological seminary, who assisted the pastor in the services. Despite his weakness after his long sickness Dr. Heckman delivered an eloquent sermon, taking for his text Acts 19 2: "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?" At the conclusion of the services the Doctor received the congratulations of the members The evening services were conducted by William 11. Wells, who preached an interesting sermon, taking as his text, Phil.

2 8: "And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death of the cross." Mr. Wells spoke in part as follows: The apostle presents for our example the Lord Jesus, whose life was one of simple love to God and to man and of great humility. Having mentioned the Lord Jesus and the mind which was in Him, he yields to the opportunity to enlarge upon his person and to give a decriptions of Him. The two natures of Uinst, the human and the divine, and the two states, that of His humiliation and that of His exaltation, are then presented to us. The speaker then limited himself to the consideration of the human nature of Christ as exhibited by His life on earth, which was His state of li mi lit nt inn.

The specific steps in the act ot humiliation consisted in Jesus being born, and that ina low condition. In the next step Christ humbled Himself by being made under the law. The fourth step was His enduring the wrath of (Jod. This is distinctly mentioned ns one of the burdens of sorrow which Christ was called upon to bear for our sakes. The fifth and last step in His humiliation was His death.

Jesus in His life completely fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah as given in the 53d chapter. "The presentation of such a theme aflords ns abundant food lor thought and pray fill meditation. M.ty it also he the means of impressing upon our hearts and minds more deeply what Christ has endured for us and may it lead lis to a greater admiration and fove for Him. May our devotion to Him be more exclusive and more earnest." TOPICS AND LEADERS. Work for Six Month Mapped Out by Voting 1'eop e' Christian KndeavorSo elely.

At the regular monthly meeting of the Young People's Society of Christian Kn ileavor of the First Presbyterian church last week the following topics and leaders were agreed upon for the next six months: Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Feb.

Feb. Spiritual jH.wei wliuuee iti'mowi" and how to get it. I'hil. I (. S.

Hoolittlc Revivals at home ami in mission lihls. II Chrtin. 2T. Mitw Oirric Cressniau Our failures ami successes. I.uke .1:1 11 KobortOiiks Kmh'HVorer loyul to Christ what willthcyilo? Jokn liKIMtK; Tj.

K. Thomiison Sinccrty with one's wlf, witli cithers, with Hod. I's. hi: 1 Zcch. 17 A.

Nrlimucker M'hat our denomination is doiiij ch. 1:1 11 C. 11. Hull) Our little worries and how to (ret rid of them. I'm.

121 John 11:1. Miss Ksther Wells From what does Christ save men. Titus 3:1 7 J. Meredith HulT 0iiort.iiiiitic to do Mid weeing them, using them. John I Cor.

Ul Miss Augusta Hi ll How the Christian Kndeavor pledge strengthen the Christian life. II Kings Jl M. Smith How our ImmIips influence tur souls. Pan. Ltr.

K. R. Schmuckcr What Christian heroism is and docs. Luke 9: IS 2H, 'iI iU. Miss Isabel Savage Icssoii from Christ's miracles.

Matt, 2 it John It: Job The hrotlierhiMKl of man. 1 John 3: 1 21 II. H. Kuiiklc Different kinds of death and the conquest of them. 1 Cor, 15: 50 5S II.

J. Ilavdcn What is true liberty, anil bow is it won. John ao 10 Harry Boyd Christian enterprise Jonah 1 10 Walter H. Wells W'hv I love Jcaus. I John 4: 19; John 11 17 Miss Clara A ll Some things worth living for.

I John 2: 1217 Albert H. Durrell IVace when to seek it, and how. (ten. 13: Ms Rov. Oeo C.

Heckman, 11.1). "That ve bear much fruit." John 1 11 Fred. A. Hchmucker The tongue a a Christian's tool. Kx.

4: 1 17 lohn McUnwaii The best way to study the Hible. IN. It': 7 11 Frank ilankinsnn Our brothers' keepers, (ten. 4: 3 16 Miss Mabel I.ichtcnthaelcr How to get Mitieiice, and why. Jas.

5:7 20 Win. 11. Wells ii. Feb. 21.

Feb. 2S, Miir. 7. Mar. II.

April April April April May May May May ay June June June June IN QUEST OF HIS SON. A riilladwtplilan'ii Htinday Mission tu Heading. "I'm in trouble in Heading jail. James J. Devlan." That was the terse message that James Devlan, a 1'hiludel phia business man received yesterday morning.

The son had left his home on Saturday evening mid all night his parents awaited his return. Mr. Devlan upon receiving the message came on nt once, and immediately conferred with the officials at the police station, and ascertained that his son and Charles McCnrrigle, also of Philadelphia, were in the llerkscounfyjail. It appears the two young men were captured on the Kull'alo express nt yesterday morning nt Hoyersford by Conductor Harry Scbroeder. They lirst rode between the tank and express car, but were discovered by the fireman aud put off at l'hocnixville.

They then mounted be tweeu two express cars and Conductor Scbroeder secured them. Officer Hecker and 1'. oV li. Oflicer Piper met the car riders upon the arrival of the Buffalo at 1.20 a. mid they were taken to Alderman Kirschmann and committed to the lierks county prison for twenty days for illegal car riding.

The young men took the incarceration its a serious matter. Mr. Devlan paid the costs and lines in the cases and secured the release of the two young men at 1 o'clock yesterday nlternooii. The father and son immediately departed for I'hihidelphiti Additional local news on second and third pages. Closing Seaalnns nf Heading Hn'lness As social Ion.

The Heading Holiness association held their closing sessions yesterday in Covenant M. K. church. A general experience meeting was held nt o'clock, led by J. Weiler; at .:) o'clock the Kp worth League had charge of the meeting, mid in the evening a revival service was held, led by Evangelist (irnhani, of Kloomsburg, who gave an interesting talk to the members.

The association then adjourned to meet next Fcbrunry in U. 11, church. A Blizzard Raging Over 1 6reater Part of the State of Minnesota. HEM FILL "OF SNOW. The Wind Blowing; a Gale and Hallroadt Obstructed Storms of Bain, Sleet and Snow Throughout Mlesonrl Snow and Severe Cold In Kansas The Most Serions Blizzard of the Winter In Nebraska Destructive and Fatal Tornado in Louisiana.

St. Paui, Jan. 3. A bli.zaid is blowing to night in this section over an area of four hundred miles north and south and six hundred miles east and west. Over most of Minnesota it has been snowing from fourteen to twenty hours, and there is from seven to sixteen inches ot snow on the ground.

The wind is blowing a gale from the north. The snow is damp and packs so solidly on the railway tracks that it is difficult for the snow plows to work through it. The snow has also made a wreck of the telegraph wires to the north and west of St. l'aul. All trains are still moving, though some of them are hours late.

South Dakota dispatches say the storm extends as far west ns the Black Hills. The temperature is from fifteen to eighteen degrees above zero, though at o'clock it was rapidly getting colder. There will be suffering among live stock if the mercury drops to zero. Kaln, Sleet and Snow. Sr.

Louis, Jan. 3. The heaviest rain storm of recent years has prevailed throughout Missouri, northern Arkansas and Indian Territory during the past thirty six hours. In many places in western Missouri the streams are overflowed and in some places railroads have suflered from washouts. Last night the rain turned to sleet, and to day a furious snow storm is raging.

The temperature has fallen forty degrees in Missouri and eastern Kansas in the last twenty fonr hours, and in the latter section a genuine blizzard is sweeping over the country. At I.aniout and Kenoboster a small cyclone prevailed last night, many trees being uprooted, but no large damage to property has been reported so far. In many places in wes'ern Missouri the mercury has fallen almost to zero, and this drop in temperature will probably resnlt in checking the flood. In St. Louis a heavy rain has fallen during the past 21 hours, bnt during the night it was checked by a decided fall in temperature, and at 9 o'clock the mercury has fallen 115 degrees and was accompanied by a high northwesterly wind.

First of Winter in Kansas. Kansas City, Jan. 3. The unprecedented storm of the past three days has been checked by a cold wave, and Kansas to night is experiencing its lirst winter wheater. Snow has fallen all day in various parts of theState.

It is feared thnt great loss of cattle will resnlt from the storm. An Obi Fashioned Blizzard in Nebraska. Omaha, Jan. 3. Nebraska is enjoying and old fashioned blizzard, the most serious one of the winter.

High winds are drifting the snow, and if they continue throughout the night may make the situation on the plains alarming. Omaha seems so far to have escaped the worst of tne storm. At 10 o'clock tonight the thermometer at the local weather bureau registered 3 degrees above zero, and the chances are that the temperature will fall several points before daylight. A TOWN WUKCKKI). Moorlni Swept by a Tornado and Wiped Out.

Tkx AltK AN Jan. 3. A tornado struck Mooringport, twenty live miles west of Texarkana, on the Kansas City, I'ittsbiirg aud Gulf road, at 3.30 p. yesterday, aud blew down every house but two in the town and killed several people. The prostrated condition ol wires makes it impossible to get particulars.

Further and authentic reports say that the entire (ioodman family, five in number, were killed outright. The two children and mother in law of M. J. Morgan are fatally injured. Five other persons, whose names could not be learned, are dead.

A private telegram from Benton, from a reliable party, reports a cyclone there, with twenty houses blown down, but docs not mention any lives lost. Cameron was also struck by the storm, one man being reported killed at that place. The storm was very heavy at Little Hock, but so far no damage liss been reported. AN ALLEGED "PEEPING DAN." Special Oflleer Schreftler Makes an Arrest at the Kallroad Station. A well dressed man, wearing a black cutaway suit and light overcoat was arrested ou the platform at the Pennsylvania passenger station at 3.35 o'clock yesterday afternoon by Special Officer Sch relller, and the man was taken to police station and locked up.

The charge against him on the slate is that of I'eeping Dan." Officer Schreftler stated that the man has been loitering about the station for nl most a week mid has been caught in various improper nets that he will explain fully in police court this morning. The prisoner gave his name as Daniel Kednib. He professed ignorance of any charge against him and drawing a prayer book from his pocket remarked that he read it daily. From the actions of the man he is believed to be weak minded. Berean'i New Pastor.

Kev. W. W. Conner, ol Philadelphia, who has been elected pastor of Kerean Haptist church, preached his introductory sermon last evening before a large congregation. Kev.

Conner is a fluent speaker and he made a very favorable impression on his hearers. Personal. James (ieiger, driver of the Heading Hose engine, spent yesterday with his parents at Kufztown. Miss Ituth U. Hmed ley, fil2 Spring street, has returned from a week's visit in New York city.

A Bull Do as a Gift. (ieorge Kline, 410 Hingnman street, on Saturday was made the recipient of a Hue ten months old bull dog Irom a Irienn. The canine is a brindle and well markedjl StrenKthenliiB Medicine, IIi.asoos, Nov. 21, 1WHI. "I have been takluii Hood's Maraaiwrilla from time to time tor the Hint two years, i take it whenever I need a blood purifier and tonic, and It has helird me a great deal.

I believe It to he the IhM spring inedieine that ran be it. J. UHAICfK, Hex o. Hood's I'lll" cur call liver Ills. BERKS AGRICULTURISTS.

FORTY FIFTH ANNUAL MEETING IN THE COURT HOUSE. Keports of Officers Result of the Flection Important Resolutions Fall Fair, September 7 10 Spring Fair, June 2 4. The annual meeting of the Berks County Agricultural society was held on Saturday afternoon in the court house. The society was instituted on the 13th of January, 185a, and this was, therefore, the forty fifth anniversary of its organization. The meeting was called to order by President James McGowan, of Robeson township, who announced that the first business in order was the reading of the treasurer's report.

RKPOKT OK TKKASTJRKR KITTKIt. Treasurer Milford N. Kitter then submitted the following: KECKirrs, DR. Balance in Treasury Jan. 1, 12 Admission tickets 3,519 fti Kntmnee money for 1112 fW Sieeinl privileges 770 22 Grand (U7 5o Bleachers S7 20 Rent j0 00 Annual appropriation 100 00 Annual nicmlierH and exhibitors' tickets li3 00 Kntraiice money from trotting asHocia tioi S2 BO Total 7i KXI'KNWTl'KKS, C'H.

Premiums 82,171 00 Interest 1,8111 27 Tjnhoraud material SMI lnries (75 00 Watchmen nnd clerks ol Vrintinjr and advertising 27s 77 Mejd ticketH on Music mis so Feed 121 17 telegrams, etc 7li 7:1 Kxpress aud hauling ft 00 Insurance on SHNial attractions tin 00 WHtar rent 00 Tuxes I on National Trotting Association 15 00 Balance in hands of treasurer Total Jii.s:j7 75 Appended to the report was the certili. cate of Wellington VanKeed and A.J, Continued on third GEN. DAVIDll'MURTRIr: GREGG. Fudorseineiit of the "Times' Sugeestloit as to His Ftninent. Fitness for the Coin inissionerslilp of Pensions, The snggestion by the Times ou Saturday last of the appointment of our distinguished townsman, Gen.

Gregg, ns Commissioner ot Pensions under the incoming Administration, is meeting with great favor, not only of Reading, where he is so well known, but elsewhere. Even our afternoon Democratic contem Keading the snggestion of the Timbs in these words: From the Reading Telegram, Dcm.) The Tim us declares for General Gregg for commissioner of pensions under Mc Kinley. The Tilianim cordially seconds the nomination, but fears there is little hope of his appointment. McKinley's appointments will not be men ot the character of Gen. Gregg.

They must be tried and true politicians. From the. Phila. lmpurcr, Rep. The Keading Timks thinks that Major General David McMnrtrie Gregg, the cavalry leader, should be appointed Commissioner ol Pensions by President McKiuley.

The position is an important one, and General Gregg would be just the man to conduct the office so as to iu the confidence of tho country and the old soldiers. There are few soldiers living who held as responsible commands as General Gregg, and we doubt if any of the few are as well preserved mentally and physically ns he. From the Allentown Chronicle, Rep. The Keading Timks, in a column editorial, nominates General David McM. Gregg, of that city, late the Auditor General of the State, as the proper man for Commissioner of Pensions under the McKiuley administration.

The Timks in glowing but truthful terms sets forth the eminent iUalilics of the distinguished Pennsylvanian, whope appointment would "be peculiarly gratifying to the I'nion veterans, not only of his own State but throughout the entire country, among whom he is widely known and universally esteemed and beloved. It will meet the equally hearty approval of all other classes of his fellow citizens of every section of Hie State, for Republicans and Democrats alike feel a common pride in his identification with tho most honorable chapters of the State's history." We are (Ujte sure that the citizens of Ichigh county, without regard to politics, second the nomination of General Gregg. As a soldier he did brilliant service for his country, there being none braver or more devoted to the Union cause. In civil office, as AuditorGeneral of Pennsylvania, General Gregg proved himself equally capable and equally trustworthy. His administration of that responsible oflice was marked by the highest ability and the most conscientious integrity, and will always stand out in the annals of the commonwealth as one of the most honorable records in the governmental history of the Keystone State.

THIEVES ENTER A PIGEON COTE. Nineteen Valuable Bird Stolen from Fryeruiuth St Bro. At nil early hour yesterday morning thieves entered the pigeon house of J. M. it W.

M. Fryermutli, 31(1 Kiugamnn street, and stole nineteen valuable Myers. The thieves entered the house by bursting the lock. Kcccntly a number of men have been loitering at night about the stock yard of the linn. Some of them bore the appearance of professional vagrants, and the firm believe that they are responsible for the robbery.

The police have been notified. Couiinnulun Nervier In Covenant. Communion services were held in Covenant M. K. church, Sunday morning, by the pastor, Key.

Henry Hess. Mrs. Kettew and Lillie Kctlew were received into the church fellowship. In the evening the pulpit was occupied by William llishing, of South Fusion, a student iu Dickinson seminary, Carlisle. Mr.

llishing preached an interesting ser mon from Malnchi 3 7. Ambulance Call. Mrs. Mary Hottenstein, aged Mi years, was removed in the Keading Hose ambn lance from 1011 Kiver street to the Rend ing hospital for medical treatment. gEGEM0F5c.CIGARS REY.

MYERS' SERMON. A PASTOR'S NEW YEAR WISH TO HIS PEOPLE. A Prayer for Health and Prosperity in the Coming Year The Greatest of All Blessings Is Soul Health, a Sound Mind in a Sound Body. Kev. Myers will organize catechetical class on Wednesday night.

The Lord's Supper will be celebrated next Sunday nt 10 a. preparatory sen ice on Friday night. His text last night was: 3 3 Beloved, I wish above all tilings that thou tnayest and be ill health, even as thy soul prosereth. I bear yon my New Year wish "that tbou nuvyest prosper and be in health." We all agree that there are no greater earthly blessings than health and prosperity, and as our heart desires the best for you in the coining year, we pray that these two things may come to yon. John wrote a private letters to a certain Gaius near Ephesus, who was a Jriend of the Apostle, a man of wealth and influence.

The bearers of this letter may have been missionaries, and he desired that the rich layman might show them Christian kindness and hospitality. In the spirit of religion, the Apostle expressed his best wishes to Gains "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." Gains evidently was of poor health, and this ApoBtolio prayer indicates the duty of every Christian to wish every one, and especially those of the household of faith, the best earthly (Continued on Second Page.) READING'S CHARTER IS VALID. Attorney Oeneral McCormlck "JHost Ke luctautly" So Kecidos. HAKlllKKlTKft, Jan. 15.

Attorney General McCormick last evening announced that he would not proceed against the Keading Company, which means that the company will hereafter control the Philadelphia and Keading railway and Philadelphia and Reading Coal and Iron companies under one management. The Attorney General has eo decided in a lengthy opinion, partly as follows: "After due consideration I reach the conclusion most reluctantly that the commonwealth of Pennsylvania cannot now successfully attack the chartered rights of the Reading company, at lcivst the rights of such a nat ure and character as had been exercised by the corporation prior to January 1, 1871." "My view of the whole matter is that the charter of the company authorized it to do the kind of business in which it engaged prior to January 1, 1874, which business was the same general character as that in which it proposes to engage for the purpose of controlling the stocks of the railway company and the coal and iron company. The wisdom of the framers of the constitution of 1874 in denying the Legislature the power to grant special charters becomes painfully apparent in the consideration of the manifold powers granted by the charter of the Reading Company, and the only consolation of the present generation is that they are not responsible for it." A YEAR ToFpOLICE CIRCLES. Cliief Alhreclit Has Completed tile Annual Keort. Cliief John F.

Albrecht lias just completed his first annual report of the police department. The present force went on duty last Itlay, and for the statistics of the earlier months of the fiscal year jnst closed Chief Albrecht is indebted to ex Chief Feter C'nllen. The present report exhibits that arrests were made during by the department. The charges were of an ordinary class and as usual ordinary drunks largely predominate. The coming report will also show that upwards of four thousand nomads were urnished with lodging in the "bum" iiiai'ters of the station house.

During the there have been six resignations and dismissals from the present force. Chief Albrecht has had the assistance of Police Clerk Weidel in the preparation of the various tabular statements. DKCRMIIEK IX During December, lsjiK, there were 51 arrests niiide by the police department and 7'JII lodgers were accommodated at the station house. The prisoners were all male and the charges were as follows: Assault and battery, bawdy house, by request, It; demented, drunkenness and begging, drunkenness, drunkenness and disorderly conduct, 11; resisting ofliecr, enticing young girls, lighting, incorrigible, illegal car riding, larceny, 1 suspicion, '2; vagrancy, 3. USEMENTST Acailmnr of Music.

Tlir theiitrical week opens to night with a breezy burlesque vaudeville called "Vanity Fair," which is described as beiug full of sparkle and snap. It is vaudeville, comedy and spectacular, all rolled into one. It presents sporting iu New York as exemplified by swell yachtsmen, and it gives a character study of Coney Island by day, with a funny elephant and a quartet of graceful dancing girls. There are specialties galore musical artists, premiere comediennes, eccentric singing and dancing comedians, acrobats, mimics, besides serio comics and burlesquers. "Vanity Fair" will be a catcli.

The graphic picture of distinctly Southern scenes and characters, "On the Mississippi," is unnoti need for Wednesday evening. Among the realistic delineations are those of the Ku Klux KI1111, Mnrdi (iras festival and the moonshiners of Tennessee. On Thnrsd.iy evening will be produced Archibald Clavering Hunter's "A Florida Kncbantnient." The piece has Imd a successful run in New York and the company is now lour. The company includes May Haines, Nellie Dunbar, Helen Creswiek, Dorothy Chester, Wash. Melville, Frank (i.

Cnmpbell, Fd win Harbour, Albert Koberts, Thos. K. Jackson, 1.. J. I'rew and others.

Nr Momlxira Kielvel Into Fellowship. In Fbenezer Kvungelicnl church last evening the following new members were received into (he church by the pastor, Kev. C. I). Dreher: Charles M.

Kinsley. Divid K. liiinsb, Harnh M. liolich and Minnie M. llaler.

A series of prayer meetings will commence In the church this evening and continue for one week. ii im lam ii Peloobet's Select Moles 4 1 OS THE International Sunday School Lessons for 1897. Bound as usual, Svo, cloth. Our Price, 80 Cents. WALTER G.ROLAH IV 625 PENN STREET.

A. A. P. TEA CO. COURTNEY Ai GENUINE ANU ORIGINAL Worcestershire Sauce.

Half pint buttles tK fine pint bottles .7.2:1: One quart bottles .4 We are sole aments for the S. The Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Companj, oi ano WJl FJSNN STREET HAY. HAY! HAY! Excellent Timothy, Long and Cut Hay, at bottom prices, at KISSINGER BRINER '5, Eighth "nd Cherry. Give us a call. FAN TAN CIGARS.

DIBERT BROS. LEADING 10 Ct. CIGAR. COAL. ALL KINDS OF COAL AND FLOUR At the very lowest prices, at AARON YOCOM'S, 244 and 246 North Eighth Street.

EXTRACTS. CLOSING OUT The balance of onr Holidnv Fimnr I IVrf'nmwu oil ot.tini.i rii i' isc IWK, Villi IUI bargains at STEIN'S PHARMACY, KOI IVnn Street. PENN. TROY LAUNDRY. If men were as big as telegraih piles, what a cinch we'd have.

FKNN TKOY LAUNDRY. Opposite i'osl oniec Telephone NOTICES QUIT NOTICtS! Landlords save money, time and trouble by ordering Quit Notices At Alderman Gricsemer's Log Cabin. If yon order a Caleiulnr jll srnrf for ISV7 PIANOS. FOR SALE. An Upright Piano Bargain A 100 Wheelnck iann, usfd ry nliuMly, louka like new, for utmost half pritt at H.

W. HsNGEH, 47 SOUTH SIFH STREET gents fITtTsIhTngsT Neckwear, Handkerchiefs, Fancy Shirts, Suspenders, Umbrellas, Mufflers, Gloves, BEST STOCK IN' HEADING. J.G.McGOWAN,530PennSt. BOTTLERS. T.

J. PUKSLKH. 8. G. LVNKKLBUO Telephone.

EXCELSIOR BOTTLING CO. STEAM BOTTLERS, 8T and 30 Maple Street, Routing. Rpeelnltlfls: Ginger Ale, Seltser nd Kipor. Beer; ll Onrhonnted Drinks; Foreign and Domestic Ale, Beer, I'urteranrl Brown Stout. Msll iimi 'phone orders delivered to ll parts of hm city.

Hiiturdnys until 10 o'clock. EDUCATIONAL. The Carroll N.itbSt. ESTABLISHED 1880. Tuition fur both hoxoh.

The Ituttitnta 1m the only rivnte m'IumI In Rt fwiiiiff whom pupil have Imi'u admiM cel, without comlitionn, to mirli colletf' ax llnrvftnl Ihirh, Pen. mylwui in. ItoNtoii Institute of Technology, Princeton una other. Young tiifiil receive Hoec'inl attention, Heconrl tenn heginw wry 7th. DECORATIONS.

CHRISTMAS and NEW TEAR. pK'S and 40 incites in length; French mow wreath; artificial funilax; cane flower ami metallic fh nignu; new itainpnn plumes, iV eacb; apple, orange and Little Brown Jug saving banks, 3c; plant food for winter Howem. OWIOHT HKKI) HTOKR tg Penn rtre MEDICAL. Dr. IterKiicr'H Whooping Cough remedy aitr cure for whooping congh, ntewle cough, croup or any tight rough.

WO penn wtreet. ALL KINDS OF JOB WORK! Times Printing House, II NORTH SIXTH ST..