Evening Star Newspaper, December 15, 1894, Page 14

14 THE EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1894-TWENTY-FOUR PAGES. “CHRISTMAS GUESTS A STORY FOR 1H CHILDREN OF THE EVEN- ING STAR SANTA CLAUS CLDR. Rccchshlgiciidimani ‘Written Exclusively for The Evening Star. HRISTMAS WAS drawing near, and the Princess of Clo- vertown (a province of Fairyland) was puzzling her golden- crowned head great- ly about the celebra- tion of the day, for the queen of ali fairies, nymphs and eives in creation was coming to visit the court of Princess Golden, who wished to make the occasion a memorable one. But how? ‘That was what worried Princess Golden. She was about to give it up and refer the matter to the queen, when a pretty elf, dressed tn all the eclors of the rainbow, dropped gracefully on one knee and pre- sented the tiniest of fairy notes. “From Queen Mab,” exclaimed the prin- cess, “clapping her jeweled hands so that the dewdrop rings sparkled brightly. She broke the seal and read: “Mab, Queen of Fairyland, sends her love to you, sweet Princess Golden, and asks that you celebrate the coming Christmas alll PES by a fete more beautiful than any preced- ing one. Let the invitations be carried by three or four of your favorite subjects, who may invite whom. they will, and I, wanting a friend and companion, wili choose one from these three. The one in- viting the class of guests that I like the most shall be my comrade forevermore. Signed) QUEEN MAB. ti charming way out of the diffi- culty,” cried the princess. “Run, Nimbl and call—well, let me see,” she said, paus ing and counting them off on the fingers of her right hand; “Gratzia, Elfie and— and Cynthia, Away flew Nimble, who well deserved his neme, and in a minute in came three of the loveliest fairies that ever were seen. The first was Elfie, a lovely sprite, smallest of all the fairy band, and famous for her beauty. Then came learned Gratzia, a stately maiden, whose big brown eyes were yonder of poring over books of fairy lore than is the wont with the elfin people. And lastly, Lashful Cynthia, whose sweet face and winning ways won’ for her the love of all Clovertown. “And what is the wish of our sweet princess?” said laughing Elfie, as she sank upon a cushion at her sovereign’s feet. Princess Golden unfolied her letter, and the six pairs of eyes read her majesty’s command with surprise end pleasure. “Oh, I hope she'll take me!” said Elfie, “for I shall ask all the beautiful fairies I know to come—and what country has more rich and beautiful ones than our own dear land?” “Oh, Elfie, grave Gratzia, ear! how shocking!” said “f shall invite the learned” Se9Sbee tter are they friends.” But thinking of something else, Cynthia was and two great tears shone in her eyes. The next day the three fairies set out on their journey. Elfic rode upon a large butterfly, whose glittering wings bore her through scented forests and blooming gar- @ens, where the rich and beautiful fairies Made their homes. Everyone was © .d to van E the lovely spite, especially when they oroet her er: , and almost everyone gaid that he or she would come. Gratzia preferred to walk and she took fan ancient book with her, which she often read by the wayside as she paused to rest ath some shady tr All the philoso- rs and learned professors told her that They would come if they could possibly spare the time, and many noted scholars Promised to swell the throng. Bhe journeyed homeward and met Elfie, ‘| Elfie and Gratzia, who sailed high in the air and sang as she rode, for she was overjoyed by her success. When she saw Gratzia walking over the fields below, she guided her airy steed down to her side and both related how successful they had been. They were not very companionable, how- ever, for Gratzia thought Elfie a foolish efeature, who cared for nothing but fri- volity, and Elfie, in her turn, wondered what ‘good Gratzia’s musty old books did herself or anyone else. Cynthia told no one about her plans, for she was a shy fairy and did not like to be laughed at, but in her faithful ttle heart burned a spark of pure unselfish love, that made her want to share her own Joys wth those who were joyless, and this prevented her being happy until she had done so. So she determined that whatever the dan- kers of the roads, she would travel to the great city, many, many miles away, and invite all the poor and friendless to come and spend Christmas with the fairies and dance at the fete. ‘The road to the city was cold and cheer- less and Cynthia, who used her own bright wings, was weary and cold long before the misty gray-steeples came in sight. Many homes were brighter that day and many hearts were glad because of the one little’ fairy who had journeyed so far to bring them the queen’s message. None refused and hundreds of ragged children went to bed that night happier than they had ever been in thelr lives; and ashes childish prayers and baby smiles repaid the little fairy well. When Gratzia and Elfile arrived home they told about their expeditions, and all gathered around to hear about the bril- liant assemblage that was to do honor to the queen. ‘The day passed and the fairies began to expect Cynthia's return. Another day, but still no Cynthia. “Where could she have gone?” None could answer, for she had been so quiet about her plans that no one could even guess where she could be. Princess Golden was in tears about her good subject and determined to send out messengers. For the queen would arrive the next day, and every one would miss Cynthia were she not among the happy throng that were to welcome Queen Mab. The next day the queen came. She was most gloriously received. Save Cynthia, not a fairy in the land but was present, dressed in his or her best, and ready to do homage to the queen of them all. The fairy orchestra—like the tinkling of myriad flower bells—had played, and all had joined in the chorus. But on all the joy there rested a cloud, for as yet nothing had been heard of Cyn- thia. An hour befere the fete Princess Golden had sent for Elfie and Gratzia. “Oh, won't you search for her? She may be lost—even dead,” wailed the prin- cess, and at the idea the little thing cov- ered her face with her hands and shud- dered. So, after a slight demur, they set out, but resolved not to go beyond the limits of the warm regions where the fairies dwell, for it was cold and bleak in the mortals’ world at Christmas time. They journeyed to the borders of fairy land, and there among the flowers lay Cynthia—her bright eyes closed and tear stains on the delicate cheek; the once bright wings were crumpled and torn, and she lay uncon- scious of everything. Gratzia lifted her tenderly, and, after re- ferring to a little book she always had with her, she pressed the juice from a flower that grew nea: and poured a little between Cynthia's lips. The poor fairy opened her eyes, but was too weak to move, so Elfie and Gratzia were obliged to carry her between them and fly as best they could to the palace. The music stopped and everybody ceased talking when the three fairies entered the glen where the feast was being held. Cyn- thia—a little stronger—walked between for she was now able to stand with their help. Crowds of bright ard beautiful people and many learned philosophers stood near the throne, but foremost among the crowd were wandering bands of half-starved children, whose grateful faces smiled on every one—poor Wasted faces that had so seldom cause to smile. High on a throne formed of a rainbow sat Queen Mab, of great renown in Fairy- land. She no sooner saw the three fairles advance than she left her bright throne and, going to meet them, said: “You have pleased me much, sweet sub- jects, in trying to obey my earnest wishe: but Elfie, dear,” laying her hand on Elfie’s arm, ‘ou must know that there are greater things than beauty and wealth. And my Gratzia will forgive me if I tell her that although learning is a valuable and wonderful thing, still, charity is greater than all else.” And she put her arm around Gratzia’s waist. Then turning to Cynthia she kissed her and said: “Dear Cynthia, I choose you to come and live with mo, for you are truly good, and the guests whom you have chosen please me best.” Then all the fairies and the guests clap- ped their hands. The queen's choice was heartily approved. There were tiny tears of disappointment in the eyes of Eifie and Gratzia, but when they looked upon the merry, dancing throng before them and saw the glad light of a new joy making heauti- ful the poor, pinched faces of the children from the world, they, too, were glad that Cynttiia had won Queen Mab’s favor, and they kissed her heartily. And there is just such a fete held here in Washington every Christmas tide. But there are thousands of Cynthias, instead 9f one, and they are not working in fairyland. On the breast of each is a blue ribbon and a silver pin, and they are going out into the world of mortal distress to find the chil- dren of the poor to invite them to the f-2si of good cheer and gladness of Christmas. The ranks of The Evening Star Santa Claus Club are filled with these good spirits, and they are doing a great and beautiful work. It is not necessary to be a fairy to be good and kind ard unselfish, TO CHRISTMAS SHOPPERS. wh Holiday Presents May Be Se- cured to the Best Advantage. Below will be found some additional hints to the readers of The Star who are yet undecided as to what. Christmas presents they will make, which will aid them in reaching a conclusion advantageous to themselves and pleasing to the prospective recipients: Time was when the ownership of a plano was the distinguishing mark of riches, and outside of the homes of the wealthy there were few who possessed the instrument that has for so many years held the first place in*popular estimation. Nowadays, however, no one is too poor io own a good piano, thanks to the improve- ments made in their manufacture, the use of machinery and the competition that has sprung up between the rich and reliable firms engaged in the trade. Among the most famous pianos in the world today are the Bradbury instruments, which are sold in Washington only by F. G. Smith, at 1225 Pennsylvania avenue. In_ tone, volume and sweetness, as well as beauty and durability, they are unsurpassed, and they can now be purchased at figures be- low the listed manufactory price, because Mr. Smith is desirous of clearing out his large stock, preparatory to making ex- tensive improvements in his “building, and is willing to sacrifice the stock rather than store it elsewhere. Parents who de- sire to give their children cultivated edu- cations should provide them with a piano and have them taught music as soon as they begin their A, 1, C’s, and to such persons Mr. Smith offers an unusual op- portunity to secure Bradbury's and other instruments made by leading manufactu- rers, as well as organs from a number of makers. There is nothing that adds as much to a woman's attractiveness as a tastefully ar- ranged colffure, and as it is only natural that the fair sex will want to look its best during the holiday season, it will be to the advantage of its members to visit the es- tablishment of S. Heller, at 720 7th street, where will be found a complete new assort- ment of switches, and where hair dressing, curling and shampooing are artistically at- tended to. Nothing can be more appropriate for Crristmas gifts for either sex than a box of nice handkerchiefs, and a wonderful as- sortment of these useful articles may be found in all fabrics and at reasonable prices at the Monumental, No. 3) F street north- west. An umbrella makes a nice present, too, and pretty ribbons are just the thing for young misses. The display of these at the Monumental is striking, and as for dolls, dressed in the latest fashion, as well as awaiting garniture at the hands of the purchasers, tnere is a teeming population ot them in the same popular store. A dainty bit of china or a tete-a-tete set in pretty design is particularly adapted for a holiday gift, and persons in search of such articles need go no further than Wil- marth & Edmonston’s, 1205 Pennsylvanit avenue. This well-known and reliable firm is especially fortunate in having been able to secure an extensive and varied stock of the latest things in Haviland’s French china, all of which are attractive and re- markably cheap in price. The display of Royal Dresden ware and other decorated ware is also uncommonly good, and Christ- mas purchasers would be wise to give the handsome stock attention, The Stieff pianos have long enjoyed a reputation for being in the front rank of modern parlor instruments. They are fa- movsly sweet in tone and are powerful as well. D. G. Pfeiffer & Co., at No. 417 11th street northwest, have the agency for the sale of these splendid pianos in Wash- ington, and they are now making terms with purchasers that make it as easy for one to buy as to rent an instrume One of the most effective gifts which could be imagined for Christmas time is a | piaro. At first sight this might seem like a gift beyond the means of the average per- son, but E. F. Droop & Sons, 925 Pennsyl- vania avenue, will sell you a piano upon menthly payments of $i0 and give you a gocd one for $207.50. If you can afford to pay cash for a piano they will sell you an upright for $15. Their advertisement, worth reading, as they are offering some their stock to prepare for building. Fifty dollars to many people is worth saving, and in the purchase of a plano $0 is a considerable item. The Metzerott Music Company have decided to give to each person who buys a: piano between this time and January 1. They have mark- ed the price of all pianos in plain figures and will make a reduction of $0 upon each instrument. The piano store at 422 9th street, con- ducted by W. H. Shoemaker & Co., is ad- vertising to sell the best grades of pianos at very low prices. ‘They are proposing to | give the buyer the benefit of the profit of running a store with small expenses. Kubkn's music store, 1200 G street, is of- fering several bargains in pianos. One of them is a Steinway grand square for $200 cash, and another is a Wissner upright for the same price. Both of these instru- ments are said to be of excellent tone and workmanship, and the price includes stool and cover. The Piano Exchange. at 913 Perinsylvania avenue, offers an upright grand piano for $200 cash. They also say they have a piano reduced from #373 which they will sell for $00, on monthly payments of $10. This store has a large assortment of pianos of all grades and prices, and persons wishing to purchase a musical instrument of this kind should see the stock and assortment. This establishment is making a specialty of offering pianos suitable for Christmas gifts, and will doubtless accommodate the customer in every possible way. Knabe planos are well known, of course, to all music-loving people. The place to buy them in this city is at 817 Pennsyl- vania avenue, where there is a large stock, and consequently a varied assortment, al- Ways on hand. The firm keeps a supply of grands and uprights, finished in kind of wood. The main con: the makers of this piano, they say, is how good to make them, and they claim that this. question is admirably solved in all of their truments placed upon the mar- ket. Knabe has received a number. of very flattering testimonials from leading musicians, including D’Aibert, Von Bu- low, Grunfeld, Tschaikovsky and others, Shoes in December form a very weighty question with a great many peopl There is no part of the apparel more important to-health than shoes, for it is absolutely necessary to keep the feet warm and dry in order to be healthy. This fact being admitted, the question is where to get the best and cheapest shoes, cheapest. being considered that which is best. Hoover & inyder of 1217 Pennsylvania avenue lay laim to deserving unusual consideration in this matter. Thoy say that there are £0 many grades of leather and so many clever imitations of good leather that the inexperienced buyer is almost sure to be taken in unless he deals with a shoeman whom he can trust. They say they have been in the shoe business for many years, and have a right to be believed when they assert that their $3.50 and $4 shoes are as | good as higher-priced shoes sold by some dealers. They give a guarantee of the quality of the foot leather which they sell. Having greatly reduced shoes for the holidays, Hahn's three stores will be open every evening next week until 8 o'clock, and Saturday until 11:30, to ac- commodate the increased holiday trade ex- pected. Hahn says “Shoes right before the holidays at reduced prices when other merchants advance their prices is some- thing people are not accustomed to,” and upon this ground he takes additional credit to himself for reducing prices. His ad- vertisement found elsewhere details at length the bargains which he offers, but for the sake of those who may not have time to go through the list here are some ‘of them: All-wool black cloth overgaiters, at 19 cents; men’s and ladies’ slippers, at 48 cents; men’s Romeo tan slippers, at $1.20;twenty different styles of men's pretty toilet slippers, at $1.50; ladies’ vici kid but- ton and laced shoes, at $1.85; men’s boots and men's kangaroo gnd calf shoes, lace and gaiters, for $1.85; for $2.65 the follow- ing variety of shoes is offered: Ladies’ strictly hand made turn or welt button, laced or congress; men’s hand made tan j storm shoes. French enamel shoes and fine calf shoes and boots. This makes a large list of bargains, to be sure, but it does not include all’ that Hahn’ offers. Probably the best thing to do under the circumstances would be to take the hint the prices of t from the advertisement and visit the stores in person. ber. A great many people naturally turn to be- There are three stores, remem- a book store about Christmas cnuse their taste or inclinatio: Ballantyne’ 7th some specialties in th almanacs. The stand bound are offered for a dainty edition of the Kings D. ealendar for Books, and engraving are the main features of time, | | which is found in another column, is well | unusual bargains at this time to reduce | | are at this establishment, which is well worthy of patronage. There has peen a suggestion in the at- mosphere of the last few days of cloaks and wraps. [f one did not have such an article of clothing the suggestion was very keen, and {f one had a cloak at home and {t was too old or too unstylish to wear the intimation was just as strong. King’s Palace is a good place to think of in con- nection with cloaks. Early this month Mr. King bought the entire stock of a well- known cloak’ dealer in New York who wanted to close out. Mr. King bought these cloaks for 50 cents on the dollar and is offering them for sale here at 50 cents on the dollar. The lot includes plush capes for $6.48, coats and capes for $5.08 and some finer goods. Under the latter head comes a lot of. garments which Mr. King says are the finest that have been shown in Washington or, for that matter, any- where else. They are the finest quality of broadcloth,. boucle cloth, Persian cloth, &c., stylishly fashioned, magnificent work- manship, with silk linings. These gar- ments, says Mr. King, were made to sell at prices ranging from $17 to $25. Having bought them at a reduction of 50 per cent, he will put one price on them all, giving you the choice for $12.98. He also has Some beautiful misses’ coats and capes for $5.98, which are from the same stock as the finer goods. For $7.98 he offers ladies’ and misses’ plush and cloth capes and cloth jackets, in novelty kerseys, diag- onals, beavers, ‘chevrons, covert cloths, with full balloon sleeves and deep-notch collars. These goods were made to sell from $10 to $13. In the line of useful Christmas presents Muth & Co. at 418 7th street, offer an excellent assortment of all description of bronzes, vases, lamps, onyx tables and many other useful articles. This store is one of the old reliable stores of Washing- ton. It was formerly known as Ryneal's store, and shoppers on 7th street will recall it as the place for honest bargains. Everybody is supposed to turn over a new leaf when the New Year is ushered in, and a rehabilitation of a person’s moral make-up is, in many instances, not a whit more necessary than a renewal of the sub- stantial contents of his physical home. There are scores o! parlors and hundreds of bed rooms and kitchens in Washington that would be improved beyond all belief if their present furniture was removed and new and stylish articles put in its place. Such furniture can be nowhere purchased of more excellent manufacture nor at lower prices than at Grogan’s mammoth estab- lishment, which occuples Nos. 819, 821 and $23 7th street northwest. From the most elegant parlor unholstery to the most mod- est kitchen furnishings there is a magnifi- cent collection of stock to choose from. Another important thing about Grogan’s is that persons with limited means can get whatever they need and pay for it as they are able by means of the splendid credit system which Mr, Grogan introduced In Washington. To artistically complete the appearance of the dinning or supper table it is as nec- essary to have something upon it in the way of cut glass us {t is to have spot- less. damask. Formerly the precious, daz- zling, beautiful stuff was beyond reach of others than the wealthy because of its great cost. The American cut glass known as Libbey’s has changed this condition, however, and the most handsome work in the line now bears Libbey’s famous im- press. M. W. Beveridge, on F street near sth, has a complete 1 of the most re- ent creations in cut gl s, and persons in parch of most appropriate Christmas pres- ents at a moderate outlay should examine the collection without delay. Many persons imagine that they are able to buy a piano because of its great cost, but Hugo Worch, whose ware rooms . 25 Tth street northwest, can simplify matters for such Individuals by letting them buy a piano and pay for it in small monthly payments. Mr. Worch handles a variety of instruments from leading manufacturers, and he now has on hand some particularly fine ones, which he is offering really at a sacrifice. He also rents, repairs and moves pianos, and the satisfaction he gives is too well known to need mention. A splendid surprise for a near-sighted friend can be arranged by getting the number of the glasses he wears and gtv- ing him a gold-rimmed pair for a Christ- mas gift. Buchanan Brothers, the sc tile opticians at No. 1115 F street north- west, have a full stock of such articles and their prices are moderate. dirt, no ashes, no trouble of bringing in coal, and kindling the fire and abso- lute freedom from smoke are only a few of the blessings conferred upon a housekeeper who uses a gas stove or gas range in her kitchen. You turn the cock, hold out a lighted match and the fire’ for the ap- proaching meal is an accomplished fact. Charles A Muddiman’s place at 614 12th street northwest is well known as the headquarters for gas cooking appliances, ard he is now offering some rare bargains especially in gas ranges, that deserve the immediate attention of wise Washington housewives. It may at first thought seem queer to ad- vise one in these holiday times to visit a dentist, but there is nothing more certain than thatwithout good teeth the good things of the holidays will afford little pleasure. ‘Therefore it is more than foolish to suffer the toothache and the other discomfor:s cf had teeth when the Evans Dental Parlo-s, 1217 Pennsylvania avenue, extract teeth without the slightest pain’ and so moder- ately. Messrs. B, Rich & Sons, 1002 F street, claim that they carry in stock the daintiest footwear ever introduced in Washington. One would be very loath to deny their con- tention efter an inspection of their im- mense and varied stock. The firm demon- strates that there is not the slightest dan- | ger of loss in dealing in high-class novel- ties, and they exhibit every style of dane- ing, reception, boudoir, theater and at | home slippers and Oxfords, in patent ieath- er, kid, satin felt, worsted and other goods, in’ black, russet and all other colors. No better opportunity 18 presented in the city for the purchase of holiday goods than at this house. Do not throw aside a gown or coat be- cause it is not of the proper shade. There is no reasofi for doing such a foolish thing when you have the. advantage of such an establishment as the well-known dy house of Anton Fischer, 906 G street. 5 your goods there and be astonished by the handsome way they will be treated. Mrs. Whelan, the manager of the Physi- cal Culture Corset Company, 1107 G t, offers many timely holiday suggestions. For instance. she suggests as a useful and handsome Christmas gift a pair of garters of the finest quality and exquisitely made, or a pair of hose supporters, they being of all shades, with bows and buckles, and neatly packed in boxes. One of the most important questions to be answered just now is: Where can be found in the greatest variety and at the cheapest. prices. the thousand and one things for the Christmas tree? Mr. Gould, 421 9th street, answers by pointing to his immense stock. Be convinced by calling there. It would be difficult to find more accept- able presents than those to be found in Such an establishment as that of Messrs. J. W. Boteler & Son, 923 Pennsylvania ave nue, the well-known dealers in china, gla: crockery, plated ware, bric-a-brac and sen- eral housefurnishing goods. Their stock is simply inexhaustible, and when it is re- membered that the firm is selling at a 20 per cent discount for cash it is unnecessary to advise a visit there. Flour is as great a factor at Christmas time as toys or candy. Without good flc there can be no good cake, and indeed Christmas without good bread would be doleful indeed. ‘Cheap bread does not neces- ‘sarily mean good bread, but Poole, at 1200 F street, says that he has some flour that means both cheap aud good bread. Poole’s ad. in The Star explains all about it. He gives some interesting prices, too, on po- tatoes. His store is filled with other good things at rates that open the purse. A visit to this enterprising merchant would pay the customer who is stocking up for the holidays. Shoes must be better at this season than at any other, for it is colder and damper. They should be cheaper, as well, for the times are harder ang dollars are bigger than they used to be. Therefore, the an- nouncement of Stoll, whose shoe palace at $10 7th street is filled with bargains, is of more than usual interest to parents whose little ones are to be shod for Christmas time. Of course there are also bargains for bachelors and maidens, whose families are prospective, and indeed every class and age may be suited at this well-stocked place. Lansburgh & Brother, at 420 and several other numbers on 7th street, say they can cover the hands of all Washington with the finest of gloves at the lowest of pri They say, also, that they have been ing” with one of the largest import in the country for with et with a low. They say they have succeeded in mal such a combination, and so their counters are filied deep with good things im this line that should draw a great crowd to these well-established stores. Gloves are good things to give to other folks, if you are too unselfish to buy them for yourself. There is nobody, im any station of life, who would not be glad to get a nice pair for Christmas, and Lansburgh can fit anybody on earth, either as to size or price. This is a splendid opportunity. Christmas shopping, when done by the housewife, is not an easy task. It is all well enough to “go shopping” in the usual way, but when It comes to look after the wants of the inner man during the holiday season it is entirely a different matter. But at W. H. Keister’s, corner of Louis- jana avenue ana Yth street, purchasing is made easy, because of the great variety to be found in the store. There are groceries of every description, including canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, candies and all luxuries that are wanted for the table. Be- sides these, this firm makes a specialty of choice fruits, which are received direct from the south and west, as well as pro- duets of green houses. China and glassware are all the rage just now, and any articles in this line may be had at M. W. Beveridge's, 1215 F street and 1214 G street. Not only are there so many useful articles to be found in this magnificent store, but hundreds of beauti- ful ornaments, any one of which would bring happiness to the one receiving it. In the long list of chinaware are to be found breakfast, dinner and tea sets, cracker jars, chocoimte pitchers, as well as any other article to be found in a first-class china store. Silverware and cut glass arti- cles in the most attractive patterns are in- cluded in the extensive stock of this firm, and under the gaslight the store presents an unusually attractive appearance. Who is there that would not appreciate any article of footgear for a Christmas present? It is true that a pair of shoes or boots would not make a handsome showing on a Christmas tree, nor would they make a dainty present, but such a present would be highdy appreciated because of its use- fulness. ‘Che ‘weather has been good for this season of the year, but snow storms are bound to come later on, and those who have old shoes to wear will regret that their friends did not remember them in this Hine, for it is a positive fact that he Star Shoe Store, No, 1203 F street north- west, is selling out to go out of business, and it ts only a question of how quickly the stock can be sold. The quality of the goods is well known, and they are con- scientiously recommended by the pro- prietors, who gvarantee a freedom from wet feet by those who take advantage of the half-price sale. There 1s nothing more palatable and ap- petizing than a dish of California fruit, and James D, Donnelly, the grocer at 14th and 1 streets, is making a specialty of them. ‘They are put up in glass and tin, and are of the finest quality, being packed in extra heavy sirup, Included in the list of these choice fruits are pears, peaches, plums and apricots. New California honey, raisins and other Christmas delicacies are also handled. Hot sausage is an article served for breakfast almost every day in every well- regulated hotel and boarding house. Many private houses do not serve sausages so frequently, for the good reason that care in sejecting them is not properly exercised. One visit to the stands of A. Loeffler, in the Center, Northern Liberty or Western market, will repay the customer for his trouble, and he will never again say he doe not want sausage for breakfast. M. J. Hunt, 1309 F street, has a pply of dainty presents for the holl- and fresh importations of fancy ic-a-brac are being received : les make exquisite pres- ents at small cost, and s they are imported for Mrs. Hunt exclusively, there is no | danger of purchasing what everybody clse has bought elsewhere. Purchases laid aside and delivered when desired, Pure cream and milk are not to be found in every dairy, and those who get them are extremely fortunate. During the Christ- mas holidays these articles are generally scarce, and it is sometimes necessary to give advance orders, but J. S. Thompson, 511 4 1-2 street southwest, will fill the bill at short notice. His milk is not to be com- pared with milk sold by many dairymen, and deliveries are made as frequently as desired. Nicholas Auth sells sausage, and he pre- pares and flavors them to make them de- | licious to all tastes. They are made of the | choicest ingredients, the beef and pork be- ing Killed on his own premises. Persons who call at any one of his stands in the O street, Center, Riggs or Western markets, will be so well pleased that they will call again, for every pound of them is guar teed to be the first-class article, The care of one’s horse is really the care | of one’s self, and where and how man's best friend can best be cared for is a ques- tion which strongly appeals to every horse owner. At Downey's Hotel for Horses, 1622-28 L street, there is provided a bulld- ing, fire-proof throughout, with every con- | venience, and every horse is sure of care- ful attention. More than that; the placing of a horse therein makes its care cheaper than in a private stable. Of course, it will be simply impossible to enjoy the sights of the holidays without good eyes, and where the eyesight is de- fective good glasses remedy the fault. So, in selecting a Christmas gift do not forget that a pair of eyeglasses may bring untold pleasure and comfort to a near one. Such gifis can be at Co.'s opticians, 1311 F street. ‘To be well dressed is to be well prepa: for the good things which the holidays will bring, and the all-important question just now is, where can be found the best made and the most reasonable of . clothiers. Messrs. Mertz and Mertz, tailors, 906 F street, answer this question by replying to the thousands of Star readers: “Step right in and let us serve you.” The reputation of this firm is everywhere known, and has been attained by the excellence’ of their rk and the reasonableness of their terms. ‘0 patronize them once is to become a reg- ular customer of the firm, The gift of a musical instrument is sure to be a pleasure-giving one, and one which will be long remembered. Messrs. Sanders & yman, 934 F street, present an un- limited stock of musical instruments, and those who are bothered by the question of what to give should go there, for their stock is as large as it prices are the ve California's Wine Crop, From the San F ‘The wine crop this year will be small, and, generally speaking, inferior in quality to that of last year. The crop of the state ts estimated at 1 500,000 gallons, of which 10,000,000 gallons is dry, and 2,500,000 sweet. Drouth and periods of great heat are responsible for this ‘condition of affairs, The amount of grapes fell below the normal, and, as a rule, the dry wine made previous to the first rain in October fermented badly. After the downpour and the swelling of the berries the fermentation was perfect. The result ts that about one-third of the wine of 184 is only medium, while the o two-thirds is good, but not up to the standard of INK. Sweet wines, however, are in good condition. Last year’s crop in first hands was esti- mated at the opening of the vintage at 5,000,000 gallons, but since then heavy purehases have been made, so that it is now believed the stock is reduced to about 2,000,000, gallons, varied, and their anciseo Examiner. In the state of New York a compulsory education law will become effective Jan- uary 1. OLD MARYLAND HOMES. Famous Wye Manor and Its Gracio Memortes. From the Century. Jf one might be frisked by the mere magic of a wish cway from the vulgar scrambling and the din and all the heart- less impertinence of this impatient time back to those ways of pleasentness and paths of peace which were the familiar conditions of old Maryland, he might choose to find himself trundling in an an- tiquated gig through the long, dim stretch of woods and the double colonnade of locust» and beech2s which formed the ap- proach of the “great house,” and ended in the graveled drive that belted the noble lawn—from five to seven acres of close, clean sward, dotted with furs and cedars, and terraced from end to end. Here stood the sturdy domicile, broad and square, built of bricks brought over from England in the ships that came for tobacco. It was flanked on each hand with offices and strung out to the very edge of the woods with outbutidings—kitchen, dairy, ice house, oversevr’s lodge and the “quarter” for the dusky colony of.slaves. This latter might be either a group of cabins or a single, spaciovs tenement of logs or stone, afford- ing cne big sitting room below, floored with earth, and rude dormitories, bunked and blanketed, above. On the ground floor the negroes loved to Me around the great hearth, with their feet to the fire, and to sleep that sleep of insouciant beatitude which was broken only by the familiar ery of warning: “Some fool-nigger’s heel a- burning!” In the distance was the clumsy windmill for the grinding cf the maize which was presently to find itself transformed and famous in coquetries of johnny-cake and pene, and flapjacks flattered with golden butter; and beyond, between the willows by the creek, glimpsed and glanced the rippling silver of the bay, with its sleepy coves and inlets dotted with canoes and barges, and with the slender spars of pungies in among the cuddling little isles, where Samb> tonged for “eye-sheters” in the sun, and the larger fisher took his finny treasures from the weir. Hospitable Manor House. Here was a land flowing with mint juleps and blooming with delectable damsels. Mistress Rebecca Lloyd, beautiful and gracious, greeted the new-comer with a winsome courtesy on the broad piazza, and the grizzled butler, who had “toted” his young missus around so long that there were still times when he forgot himself and called her “honey,” brought you the bezuiling beverage on a silver saiver en- graved with the family arms, and was dis- tressed if your straw refused to draw. That broad piazza was burned, with the rest of the noble house of Wye, when a British marauding perty looted the planta- tion and tke mansion, and carried off plate, jewelry and watches, swords, spurs, sashes and cocked beavers, muffs, turbans and tippets, wigs and embroidered waist- coats, plumed hats and cardinals—the whole splendid plunder of brave apparel and dainty bedeckings. The fair Rebecca has long since been choired among the angels, and the grizzled butler sleeps with his tocs turned up to the mint; but when I crossed the lawn one kindly day in last December I was greeted as graciously by Rebecea’s later kinswoman, etd conducted into the great hall, which never yet, wheth- er in the parent house or in this, was big enough for the hosritalities it has harbor- ed. The grand old manor house gave its body to the flames, but its soul survives in the later mansion, where its traditions of courtesy and kindness are piously cher- hed. the site of the historic domicile, a fragment of which still remains, stands the beautiful structure, impressive by its proud simplicit which imvites the way- farer today in the name of eight genera- tions ef Maryland worthies who have kept house there since urd Lloyd I, the Puritan, in 1668, set up Mis son Philemon to be lord of the manor of Wye and master of Wye house—incunabula majorum. The main building of two lofty stories, includ- ing the hall, drawing room, parlor, dining room and chambers, all of noble ‘propor- tions, is connected by corridors with one- storied wings, in which are the Hbrary on one side and the domestic offices on the ther, presenting a pleasing facade of 20) feet, looking out upon the lawn and the fy avenue and ever the woods to Wye iver end the bay. When Fred. Douglass Was a Slave. In Gov. Lloyd’s time there was a certain steward, or bailiff, at Wye, one Capt. An- thony of St. Michael's, at one time master of a bay craft in the service of the gov- ernor. ‘This man was the owner of a likely negro boy, who escaped from bondage, and by his rem. able powers, acquirements ind _addre became known to the world 3 Fred tk Douglas: In 18M Mr. Doug- lass, being then marshal of the District of Columbia, was moved to revisit the scenes of his childhood and bis thrall, and one day found himself on the porch of Wye house, where he was received by the sons of Cel. Lloyd, their father being absent, with that courtesy which is extended to every stranger wh) firds his way thither. Wren he had made known the motive of his visit he was conducted over the estate, from spot to spot that he remembered and described with all their childish associa- tior here a spring, th a hedge, a lane, a field, a tree. He call them by their names, or recalled them by some simple incident, and all the glowing heart of the man seemed to go out to the place as he passed from ghost to ghost as in a dream. And then a strange thing happened; stand- ing mute and musing for a while, he said slowly and low, as one who talks in his sleep, “Over in them woods was whar me and Mars Dan useter trap rabbits.” “Mars Dan” was the governor's son. Was it the man’s half-p ful, half-pathetic sense of the grotesque incongruity of the situation? Or was it glamor? 1 the tremendous sig- nifieance of a phenomenal life compacted into the homely reflection and phrase of a barefoot “darky.” He plucked flowers from the graves of dead Lloyds he had known, and at the table drank to the health of the master of the old house and of his children, “that they and their descendants may worthily maintain the character and the fame of their ancestors. 400 ensures of Home Life. From the Chicago Record. “What a cozy Lome you have,” said his bachelor friend as he entered Mr. Nuwed’s house for the first time, Yes, indeed,” said Mr. Nuwed, ecstatic- ally. “I never knew the real comforts of life until I married. Now if you'll just sit down a moment I'll go down and fill the furnace, split a little kindlingwood, bring up some coal for the grate fire, set out the milk pitcher, mend the kitchen stove, put up a curtain pole, attend to a few other domestic duties and then we'll sit down and have a real nice time.” —-+e<——_____ “She Made Home Happy.” rom Youth's Companion, on a stone; o is alone ‘Told me the story of the unknown dead. A marble column lifted bi r iuseribed to at lonely phritled ine far more than his “She the world has known; with ios o'ergrown who armies led. mind home happy!” ‘Through the long, sad toiled, a crossed he r stopped to rest upon her breast, im with tears, that ft behind sf the so 's, to my mind, HENRY COYLE. OPENING OF THE POLO SEASON LN CENTRAL AFRICA, M. for Kane, Canandaigua, Rochester Falls daily,’ except Sunday. 30 A.M. for Elmira und Kenovo daily, ex- $oPh Sunday.” For Williamsport daily, 8:40 p.m. 310 P.M. for Williamsport, Rochester, Buffalo, and iazara Falls daily, exeept Saturday, with Sleop- ing Car Washington to Rochester. 10:40 P.M. for Erie, Canandaigua, Rochester, But- Wasnnnd Magara "Falls daily, with Sleeping Car ashington to Elinira, and, Saturdays only, Washington to Rochester, For Philadelphia, New York and the East. 4:00 P.M GRESSIONAL LIMITED," all Tor New Yate “ally. t reek n lar at 7:05 oe vs Los m. On 5 A —— 5:50, 7:00, 7: Ticket nortan coreer of 13th street onsylvania avenue and at the station, 6th streets, where orders of baggage Nees. rough the. grandest in with the bandsomest ‘and most ‘complete solid tras serr= fee west from Ws Beet ES eae 8:00 a.m.; tric-lighted Steam-heated Train. figening cars Washington to iis ‘St. Louis without change. Indtanapotian M140 seine" "and“Chieass, 5:00 hak aj 3 a. c 5 St. Louis, 6:56 p.m. sis 11:10 ”.M. DAILY.—The famous “F, F. V, Lim- ited." A solid vestibuled train, with dining and ‘Pullman sleepers for Clociuvat!, Lexington louisville, without ebange. Observation car from Hintom. Arrives Cincinnati, pw. 5 Laan 3:00 p. Louisville, 9:35 p.m.; Indianapolis, 11. p-m.; Chicago, 7:30 a.m., and St. Louis, 6:56 a.mw.; coupects in Union — for all poluts. 10:57 A.M., BXCI SUNDAY.—For Old Polnt Comfirt and Norfolk. Ouly rail line. 2:25 P.M. DAILY.—Espress for” Gordonsv! Charlottesville, Waynesboro’, Staunton and — points; daily, except Sunday, for Mich mhond, Pullman locations and tickets at company's of fees, 013 ued 3421 Peunsylvania avenue. H. W. FULLER, a General Passenger Agent. BALTIMORE AND OHIO RAILROAD, Schedule in effect November 18, 1894, Leave Washington from station corker of New Jersey avenue aud © street. For Chi express trains, Vesti- rf, 11:30 Por Cincinnati, St. Louie urd buled Limited, 3:30 p.m.; express, 122 For Pittsburg aud Gleveland, express “For Lestagtos cad. Sti tom, 11:50 a.m. alal For Wiuchester and way stations, a5 :30 For Lamy, Natural ‘Betdge, Monpoke, Muoxville, Chattanooga, | Memphis and" New Orleans, 11:2) . daily ‘sleeping cars Urough. Luray, 3:80 pans daily: tlinore, Week days, 7:10, 27:30, (8:00 45-minut 45-migutes) 2: ©:00 "45-minutes>, E 311:30, 11:35 pm. For’ Anpipotia, im, 12:15 spd 4223 p.m. Surdiys For Frederic 3 poe For fizgerstowa, al. For Boyd For Gai am, a12:50, “hee Eiogtn 29:50 am, bis 300, 98:00 Junction and way p.m. Express trains stopping at stations only, a4: polnta, 0-00, ine 230, 25:30 p.m. Rova Site ANS Boe. ew? Yous AND ~ LADELPHIA. ener Tiliadetphie, york, Boston and the enst, st, 0:00 a.m. Dil Car), 15:00 Dining Car), 8:00, it pain. Sundays, 4 jeeping Cary cpen at 10:00 o'clork), 20, (200'a.m. Dining Car), (2:00 Dining G22. 8:0, (00 Dining’ Cur), 8 30 : passengers Bullet Parlor Garson For Atlantic City, 4:20 12:00 noon. Sundays, 4: aExcept Suuday ‘Daily. trains. Fi Raggace called for and checked from hotels and residences by Union Transfer Co. on onders left at ticket offices, 619 Pa. ave., New York ave. and 1 “eB. GaMPticnr, — cmas. 0, scULt, ni?” “Gen, Manager, Gen. Pass. Agt. ess SOUTHERN RAILWAY (Wiedmont Air Line.) Schedule in effect November 18, 1804, All trains arrive and leave at Pennsylvania Passenger Station. 8:00 4.M-—Dally—Local for Danville. Connects at Manassas for Strasburg, daily, except Sunday, ik Western, one at Lyochburg with the Ny iy. 11:01 A.M.—Dally—The UNITED STATES FAST MALL carries Pullman Ruffet Sleepers New Yortt and Washington to Jacksonville, uniting at Chare lotte with Pullman Sleeper for Augusta; also Pull- man Sleeper Nev. York to Montgomery, nection for New Orleans; connects at Atlanta with Pullman Steeper for Birmingham, Ala., Memphis, Tenn,, and Kansas City, 4:45 P.M.—Daily for Charlottesviile and through train for Strasburg, daily, except Sunday, 10:08 P.4.-Dally NEW ‘YORK AND FLORIDA SHORT LINE LIMITED. Pollman Sleepers New York and Washington to Augusta and Tampa and Pallman Double Drawing Room Compartment Car ‘ew York to St Augustine. First-class day coaches Washington to St. Augustine withont change. 'P.M.—Daily—WASHIN AND SOUTH. WES VESTIRUL LIMITED, composed of Pullman Vestibuled pers and ' Dining Cars, Pullman eqyers New ork to Asheville and Hot Springs, N. C., via Salisbury, New York to Mem- phis via Bi ham and New York to New Orleans via Atlanta and Montgomery. Dining Car from Greensboro’ to Montgomes WASHINGTON AND OTTO DI. Washington 9:10 A.M. -* 4:32 PM. daily, except Sunday, and PA nays only, for Round Hill, and P.M. datly for Herne don, Returning, arrive at Washington 8:34 C4 and 8:00 P.M. ‘daily from Round Hill, and Ts A.M. daily, except Sunday, from Herndon only. Throngh trains from the South arrive at Washts AM., 7:42 A.M., 2:25 P.M. and 8:30 P. . Manassas Division, 10:28 A.M. daily, except inday, and 10:28 A.M. daily from Charlottesville. Tickets, Sleeping Car ‘reservation aod Information General Passenger gent “Gen, Agt. Pass. Dept: LAD ES’ GOODS. jeneral Manager. nid L. 8 BROW ANTON AND CAROLINE LERCH, §26 1201 AND 1206-1208 J st. o.w.—French dyeing and cleaning of every description; evening and party dresses made a specialty. Plush, Velvets, Blankets, Laces. Cloths sponged. as MISS BERTHA L BUTLER Has recently returned from Europe, bringing latest styles in ball and dinner gowns, st costumes, bridal outfits and high Sass work every description, all of which Tam prepared te execute at the shortest notice, | Agent for the Jebrated Pingate’s Corsets. At 1225 F st. n24-1m "_ UNDERTAKERS. W. R. Speare, Undertaker & Embalmer, ‘O40 FF Street Northwest, Eversthing strictly first-class and on the most reasonable terms. ‘Telephone call, 340. jal-te a S RURGDORF, AKER AND 'EMBALMER, ‘GUS UNDER _ COAL AND WOOD Win. King & Son, 1022 16TH AND 2008 K ST. SELECT GRADES OF ANTHRACITE FOR FAM ILY USE. CANNEL AND SILINT FOR GRATES. HICKORY AND OAK FOR ANDIRONS. CUMBERLAND COAL. KINDLING WOOD. Drop us a postal or telephone 561-2 and our rep cesentative will call oa you. el