ML KB w T m === 33 ■ 1 ===== 33 1 — — m ■ ___ O ■ 3 m ==== ° 1 5 z ■ 9 1 ^5 > 1 2 m ^"^" i — 1 === m 1 = 2 1 1? ! ===== 33 ■ ==== -< ■ 1 1 m 9B - 1 = O ■ l° i ^^^S i — 1 : ^ = — * 1 ===■ -< ■ 1 ° THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES ON THE ROAD A FAMILIAR TALK MY BROTHERS AND FRIENDS BY CYRUS HAMLIN KILBY Author of " Bi7iding of the Links " BOSTON J. STILMAN SMITH &. COMPANY Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1S91, by CYRUS HAMLIN KILBY, in the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. press or ftochtotll antr Ctjurctjill, BOSTON. /o+l PREFACE. Kind Brother and Friend: In March I crossed the threshold of Riverside Lodge, in the thriving village of Merrimac, Mass., the last one of my long journey of several months. During these months of frosts and chilly winds of winter and autumn I have visited over three hundred lodges of the I.O.O.F., and exchanged fraternal greetings with many thousands of brothers of our Order. It is with emotions of joy that I now turn my face homeward to mingle with family and friends after an absence of seven months, again to enjoy the comforts of home, — a name which charms the soul. At the end of such a long journey, and at the close of so great an undertaking as I have been engaged in, it is wise and profitable to take a retrospective view of the ground travelled over, and carefully note the result of the effort put forth. When I started, July 18, 1889, with the first 1568176 IV PREFACE. instalment of my little book, entitled " Binding of the Links : a Story of Forty Years in Odd Fellow- ship," it was on a venture. But my first years of experience in the Order had given me large confidence in my fellow-men. I did not belong to that class which believes that all men are selfish. My experience had taught me that there is a divinity in man which inspires him to lofty purposes and honorable action. I had learned from observation that the good have an affinity for each other, and that such associations as the Independent Order of Odd Fellows strengthen this affinity. With such views I had courage to start on my mission. The success with which my efforts have been crowned has begotten within me a desire to engage in a similar work, that I may again meet and greet many of the thousands of kind brothers and friends with whom I had walked and held pleasant intercourse along the way. Some of them I shall never meet in this life. They have joined their brothers and friends on the other shore. There will be others, whose faces and names are unknown to me, to take their places. The title of the book now introduced to your notice implies its true character, and the PREFACE. V narrative sets forth in a familiar way some thin which will awaken in your memory scenes of the past and events which transpired under your own eye, and in distant lodges and communities where you have kind brothers and true friends. I am not a stranger to you, and you need not be informed as to the object and fitness of my visit at this time. With these few lines I invite your attention to what appears in the subsequent pages. C. H. K. Peak's Island, July, 1891. CONTENTS. Chapter Page I. Preparing for the Journey i II. Starting on the Road 4 III. Lodges Visited in Portland .... 6 IV. All on Board 8 Lewiston and Auburn — Rockland — Camden — Belfast — Pittsfield — Bangor — Brewer. V. On to the Aroostook 18 Oldtown — Mapleton — Fort Fairfield. VI. Homeward Bound 30 Dexter — Newport — Waterville — Fairfield — Oakland. VII. Making the Circuit 38 Woodford Corner — Cumberland Mills — Sacca- rappa — West Buxton Village — South Waterboro' — Spring Vale — Great Falls, N.H. — Old Berwick — South Berwick Village — North Berwick — Kennebunk — Biddeford and Saco — Old Orchard Beach. VIII. Among the Spindles and Farms .... 53 Lisbon Falls — Lisbon — Farmington — Livermore Falls — North Yarmouth — Cumberland Centre. IX. Over the Grand Trunk Road .... 59 Mechanic Falls — Canton — South Paris — Norway. X. The Old Bay State 63 Salem — Peabody — Beverly — Lynn. XI. "The Hub" 7 1 Charlestown — South Boston — East Boston — Historic Cambridge — Cambridgeport — Roxbury — Dorchester — Neponset — Brighton — Jamaica Plain. Vlll CONTENTS. Chapter XII. Suburban Lodges Visited Somerville — West Somerville — East Somerville — Newton Centre — West Newton — Newton High- lands — Maiden — Watertown — Everett — Waltham — Quincy — Milford — South Framingham. XIII. Return to Maine Bath — Brunswick — Augusta — Norridgewock — Skowhegan — Gardiner — Ilallowell — Richmond. XIV. Along the Rock-Bound Coast . • Bar Harbor — Ellsworth — Winthrop. XV. Visit to the Fatherland Eastport — Dennysville — Pembroke — Calais — St. Stephen's, N.B. — St. John, N.B. — Peak's Island, Me. — Bridgeton — Harrison. XVI. A Long Road to Travel Dover, N.H. — Manchester — Haverhill, Mass. — Lowell — Lawrence — Worcester — Westboio' — Marlboro' — Leominster — Fitchburg — Clinton — Millbury — Spencer — Warren — Palmer — Spring- field — Chicopee — Westfield. XVII. Little Rhody, and Homeward Bound Providence, R.I. — Pawtucket — Taunton, Mass. — Attleboro' — North Attleboro' — Foxboro' — Walpole — Franklin — Canton — Hyde Park. XVIII. Nearing the Last Milestone . Arlington — Medford — Melrose — Reading — Wakefield — Stoneham — Woburn — Natick — Brockton — Stoughton — South Braintree — South Weymouth — Whitman — Abington — Rockland — Hanover — Bridgewater — Randolph — Wayland — Hudson — Chftondale — Newburyport — Amesbury — Merrimack — Georgetown — South Portland, Me. — Willard. Page 95 116 129 133 149 174 192 ON THE ROAD. Chapter I. PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY. " Man's is a weary pilgrimage, As through this world he wends; In every age, from stage to stage, Still discontent attends." The journey of man through life may be a long or short one, according to the number of years he is permitted to remain on the earth. If he should live out the "days of our years," threescore years and ten, the journey will be a long one, and the traveller must witness many changes. Many of the changes will be pleasant and profitable, bringing joy to the soul and com- fort to the body: others will be fraught with dis- appointment, loss, and suffering. To start out on a long journey in a strange country without first consulting a chart or follow- ing the leadings of a competent guide would de- note a lack of good judgment. The possession of three essentials is necessary to insure success in life ; viz., correct judgment, confidence, and energy. 2 ON THE ROAD. The man who adopts Davy Crockett's motto, " Be sure you are right, then go ahead," is the man who will succeed in his purposes. To the mind of some persons whom I have met and conversed with, it is a small matter to write a book on almost any subject, and quite as easy for the author to dispose of thousands of copies, even at a small cost. No person is better qualified to judge of what can be accomplished by personal effort than the man who has performed the work himself; and just here the author of " Binding of the Links" has a few words to say concerning his experiences as author, publisher, and salesman of the book, which has been placed in the hands of five thou- sand persons, mostly members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows residing in the New England States. Whether or not the writer evinced good judgment in engaging in such an adventure, — for such it seemed to be at the start, — the thousands of brothers who have made his acquaintance and perused his book will decide. The author's many years of experience in life, and a fair understanding of human nature, led him to believe that progressive men, intelligent men, such as largely compose the membership of our New England lodges, would be interested in pe- rusing the pages of a book bearing the significant title of " Binding of the Links," coming from the pen of one who had seen years and experienced PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY. 3 many solemn changes. With such prospects be- fore me, and encouraged by the hope of success, I brought into action all the energy of mind and body I possessed to accomplish the desires of my soul. The result of those months of hard physical labor and mental fatigue will be better understood by the reader as he follows me in my journey along th° devious way. 4 ON THE ROAD. Chapter II. STARTING ON THE ROAD. " For the treasures of precious worth We must patiently dig and dive; For the places we long to fill We must push and struggle and strive ; And always and everywhere We'll find, in our onward course, Thorns for the feet and. trials to meet, And a difficult river to cross." With the hearts and hands of brothers every- where open to aid me, it still required much talk, physical labor, and push to set the ball in motion. It was journeying from city to city, from town to town, encountering difficulties, overcoming ob- stacles, being instant in season and out of season at lodge meetings. Notwithstanding that I had pre- viously travelled over a large portion of Maine, my native State, and had many friends and ac- quaintances, it was often like breaking the solid ice to introduce myself and interest the brothers in what I regarded as important and belonging to the work of Odd Fellowship. There were always some in every lodge and community to speak quickly, and utter in a few words — their acts corresponding therewith — more real Odd Fellowship than whole hours' loud talk STARTING ON THE ROAD. 5 by him who said, " ' I go, sir,' and went not," but passed by on the other side. There are hundreds of kind brothers and friends whose genial faces I bear in memory. Some of them seem near to me to-night while I am pen- ning these lines. It was their encouraging words and deeds of kindness that lightened the ponder- ous burdens that weighed heavily upon me, and smoothed the rough road I travelled. In summing up the result of my varied experi- ences in the light of pleasure derived and success in my work as compared with the hardships en- dured and losses sustained, the measure of the former overbalances the latter many hundred fold, and I am happy in the thought of again travelling the same and other new roads, even if I must en- counter greater difficulties along the way. ON THE ROAD. Chapter III. LODGES VISITED IN PORTLAND. " We meet to-night as brothers met In days of long ago, When Friendship was akin to Love, For Truth had made it so." It was on a bright July morning in 1889 when I stepped on board the steamer " Greenwood " at Peak's Island in PORTLAND HARBOR, and crossed the water to the city, where I was to start on the mission which I had been preparing to engage in months before. At the head of Exchange street I was accosted by Brother Charles Paine, from whose press, pages of " Binding of the Links " had been issued during the summer months. He informed me that the book was completed and ready for my hands. The city papers and many interested friends had advertised its coming, which created a desire among the members of the fraternity to know its contents. The author had resided in the city eight years, and was personally known in the surrounding towns. The history of his experience in the Order forty years was familiar to many of them. The younger members expected to derive benefit LODGES VISITED IN PORTLAND. 7 by a knowledge of what one who had seen years before they came upon the stage of life had en- countered. Portland, Maine, was then and continues to be the head centre of Odd Fellowship in the State, and ranks foremost in the order throughout the New England States. With a population of less than forty thousand, it has seven lodges, with a membership of 2,784, five encampments number- ing 1,580 members, and two Rebekah Degree lodges with a large and rapidly increasing mem- bership. What better or more inviting field for success- ful work could be found as initiative work for the author of a book dedicated to the cause of Friendship, Love, and Truth, the three corner- stones in the temple of Odd Fellowship? Brother Henry C. Bagley, then Grand Master, stood at the head of the Order in Maine. He exemplified by word and deed the sum and substance of Odd Fellowship. To Brother Bagley and many other kind brothers and friends I am indebted for the grand success I had in the sale of my book in that city, amounting to many hundred copies in a few weeks. At the session of the Grand Lodge held in Portland, August, 1889, there was a large attend- ance of representatives, who greeted me with kind words and forgot not the " Days of Auld Lang Syne." 8 ON THE ROAD. Chapter IV. ALL ON BOARD. Brother Reader: I now invite you to ac- company me on my journey. We will leave the "Hub City" of the Pine Tree State for a season. Our route is over the Maine Central Railroad to LEWISTON AND AUBURN, two enterprising manufacturing cities, separated by the Androscoggin river. We must board the train at the Union Station, the finest railroad station in New England, " so people say " and newspaper men write. The rain is falling; but a little water from the clouds won't spoil our " store clothes " or give us the grip. Ah, see ! We have made the journey in quick time. It is just 10.30 o'clock. Let us walk down on Main street and enter the law office. Here is my friend, A. E. Verrill, a young member of the Androscoggin bar. He just donned the title, of Past Grand in Old Androscoggin Lodge. This is a gala day with the people of the cities. There is an excursion to Fort Popham to celebrate the town of Durham. We will remain in the city a ALL ON BOARD. 9 few days, and visit the lodges on both sides of the river: — " Abou Ben Adhem," and the old lodge before mentioned in Auburn, " Golden Rule," and " M. and M." on the Lewiston side. Let us call round and say " good morning " to Veteran Past Grand Master John Read, now secre- tary of the "Odd Fellows Mutual Relief Associa- tion of Maine." Here is Brother F. W. Brooks, at the drug store on the corner. He is one of the old stand-by secretaries in Androscoggin Lodge. And there is Past Grand Master Geo. W. Goss at the bank, looking for us. See ! There are one hundred and twenty-seven brothers, members of the lodges in both cities, waiting to shake hands and examine the contents of my grip ; so we must move along sprightly and answer their calls, that we may catch the train bound for Brunswick en route for Bath and Rockland. " No, we don't wish to purchase the road and all the rolling-stock." These words were spoken to the man at the window of the ticket office of the Knox & Lincoln Railroad at Bath. The inter- State laws regulating the passenger tariff have not affected the scale of rates and the charges, which are somewhat in keeping with the rates of toll over a certain bridge " away down East," where the toll-gatherer offered as a reason for the high charges that " teams seldom crossed the bridge, and when one did, the amount of money col- lected must suffice to pay his full month's wages." IO ON THE ROAD. After riding a short distance along the water- front of the city, we cross the Pejepscot river on a steam ferry-boat, of sufficient dimensions to ac- commodate two passenger cars and the locomotive. The man who secures a seat at the start is a fortunate fellow, for the situation of the victim, and the effect upon his nicely laundried linen, on this hot July day, is as efficacious as thirty minutes in a sweat-box. Well, we have got safely over the river, and more cars are hitched on. Away we go at a fair rate of speed. We stop along the route at Wis- casset, Waldoboro, Newcastle, Damariscotta, and Thomaston. Here is the State institution for men and women who "go crooked." A short ride onward, and we arrive at ROCKLAND, where we see the smoke ascending from hundreds of lime-kilns. The Lindsey House, kept by mine host Hill, will be comfortable quarters for the night. " Will" is one of the chain-gang fellows, a member of Knox; Lodge, where we spend the evening. Whom have we here in the ante- room, with eyes wide open and hands extended ? It is my brothers and friends, Ripley, Colson, Simpson, Mason, and a score of others, preparing to initiate three candi- dates into the mysteries of Odd Fellowship. They ALL ON BOARD. u will go through their part in fine style, because they are interested in the work and have excellent facilities for executing it. Brother Oliver Otis, the man who sells his opinions — that is, the Rockland "Opinion" news- paper for five cents a copy ! We must not pass him by on the other side of the street. Never mind the dust — it comes from Mother Earth. Brother Otis has a caller. It is Past Grand J. H. Sherman, secretary of Mt. Battie Lodge at CAMDEN. His team is at the door, ready for a start home- ward. Yes, we will accept his kind invitation to take a seat in the carriage and enjoy a pleasant drive of six miles, that we may sit among the brothers to-night. It is the Ocean House where we make our quarters. The lodge hall is up on Main street, in a large new brick block. There is no work or business of special importance to occupy the time, and the Noble Grand gives up the meeting to the desires of the brothers. The time passes pleasantly in speech-making and exchanging friendly greetings. At an early hour of morning the word goes round, "All on board the steamer 'Penobscot' for 12 ON THE ROAD. BELFAST ! " vVhat brings so large a number of people on board? They are going to Northport to the Methodist camp-grounds. It is the biggest day of the season at that place. It is delightful sailing down the river — every- body is happy, and there is music in the air. It would do our soul and body good to go on shore and join the multitude in the exercises of the day, and rest under the shade of those beauti- ful trees. But we must continue on our journey to Belfast, and prepare for the great event connected with dedicating the Odd Fellows' magnificent hall. Grand Master Kimball and suite will be present. See ! We are nearing the landing. Listen to the music ! Who are all those in showy uniforms on the streets? It is "Field Day" with the Knights of Pythias Uniformed Rank in Maine. There are two hundred and fifty in line. They make a fine display. To-night Waldo Lodge holds its last meeting in the old hall, where an exciting drama, almost tragical, was enacted years ago ; but the conflict ended in a glorious conquest by Waldo Lodge over the disloyal members of Belfast Lodge. There are forty-six members present to-night. The third degree is being conferred on three AI.I. ON HOARD. i 3 candidates. Grand Master R. G. Dyer is in the van. His remarks on the history of the lodge, building the new hall, its dedication, and the events to take place on that day, are full of interest. It is Tuesday morning, September 3. The sun shines brightly. Brother Dyer invites Grand Master Kimball, Grand Secretary Davis, Grand Marshal Pike, Brother Sale, editor of the " Odd Fel- lows' Register," the reader, and myself to a scat on a handsomely upholstered buckboard, drawn by a span of cream-white horses, for a drive about the city and a look over the camp-grounds at North- port; while the members of the visiting cantons, encampments, and lodges, numbering many hundreds, are forming on the street for the general parade. They make a fine exhibition in showy uniforms and bright jewels, while keeping step to the inspiring music of many bands. We must make haste, or it will be impossible to get upon the floor to witness the dedicatory exercises of the fine large hall, for there is such a crowd in advance of us ; but we can hear the words spoken by the grand officers, who are rendering the service in a very impressive manner. It is near the close of day; the great event has passed, and the tired and hungry boys are rush- ing into the Coliseum building, where tables are laid for seven hundred and fifty people. The dinner is free — everybody is invited to partake, 14 ON THE ROAD. The committee of entertainment say, " Go out into the highways and hedges and compel them to come in, that the house and the people them- selves may be filled." After they have all been satisfied, there are more than twelve baskctsful remaining. The Eastern Maine State Fair is drawing thousands of people to Bangor to-day. There is a jam and tumult in that city. We will keep away until Monday. Let us go on to PITTSFIELD, and stop with our brother and friend, Blackden. " Owen " will make things pleasant and comfort- able for us Sunday. Here is Brother Knowles, Noble Grand of Phlentoma Lodge, Dr. E. C. Bryant, Permanent Secretary, with Brothers J. W. Webb and J. A. Morrison, standing on the corner of the street ready to greet us. The town and the people are the same as when I visited the place months ago. Doctor Dow, of Mapleton, in Aroostook County, is the popular clerk at the hotel this season. He will escort us into my old room, " No. 10." We have enjoyed ourselves grandly, and now the Sabbath day is drawing to a close, we will proceed on our journey. The " Herald " train will arrive at the station ALL ON BOARD. I 5 in a few moments. Sec ! The cars are crowded with people going to the Methodist camp-grounds at Etna. There is hardly standing-room. " Camp- grounds ! Camp-grounds ! " exclaims the con- ductor. Every car in the long train is vacated. You and I, dear reader, have all the seats to our- selves. The conductor and brakemen vanish from sight to keep company with the " paper men " in the baggage car. It is on to BANGOR. Now we are jumping and thumping over'the rails in these empty cars, stopping now and again to " fire out " bundles of " Globes" and " Heralds." Well, we ought to bless our stars that we have reached the " City of the East " without broken bones. "Hack! Carriage!" Here are four public conveyances in waiting to give We, Us, & Co. a second edition of jolting over the street pavements. No, thank you ; we prefer to walk to the Hathon House in Market square. "Lew" is the caterer, as usual, and there will be no lack in quantity or quality of the substantial at his table. Bangor is an Odd Fellow city. There are three lodges, — Penobscot, Oriental, and Bangor, — all having a large membership, and prosperous. It will take several days to " do the town." I have scores of good brothers and friends here whom I shall be pleased to introduce you to. The 16 ON THE ROAD. first on the list is our Veteran Past Grand A. N. Yeaton, then Past Grand Phincas Batchelder. Bangor was formerly the home of Past Grand Master N. II. Colton, now residing at Orono. Let us take a walk over the Kenduskeag bridge to the east side, and drop into the barber's shop, " Number 3," where Brother Packard is the knight of the razor. "John" will have a story to tell about the " salve," and will call in the boys for a general hand-shaking. He is science in giving a clean shave. There is Past Grand John E. Booth. Why comes he here? He is not Booth the tragedian, but the man who makes moccasins. We are ordered to stand and deliver up the con- tents of my grip, by a company of odd-looking fellows. Among them I see Henry B. Thorns, Leslie Kellen, " Cal " Jones, John Mitchell, O. D. Maddocks, and a host of others. If the situation becomes too hot for us, we will move out and seek refuge in Brother A. A. Nickerson's store, down on Exchange street. He can muster a small regi- ment who are plotting evil against helpless travellers on their way from J. to J. Here we are near the ferry-landing. Let us step on board the " Bon Ton " and cross over the river to the maiden city of BREWER. Are you tired by climbing the steep hill? If so, we ALL ON BOARD. \y will step into the barber's shop near by, rest awhile, and have a chat with Brother George \Y. Mackay. George is full of Odd Fellowship, and can post us on all matters concerning the Order in these parts. Wildey Lodge meets to-night. We must be on hand promptly at seven o'clock. The motto of the members is : " Early to bed and early to rise Makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise." Russell W. Currier is Noble Grand. Exactly on the dot his gavel calls the twenty-one members to order, and business is dispatched with little delay. The hall has been newly fitted up and furnished since my last visit, three years ago. It is now a neat, cosey home for Brothers Nickerson, Libby, Brown, Farnham, Packard, Tufts, Banks, Burr, and others of the working members who are constant attend- ants at the weekly meetings. It is 8. 30 o'clock, and the business of the lodge is finished. The guardian has performed the last duty of his office, and the brothers depart in peace. I 8 ON THE ROAD. Chapter V. ON TO THE AROOSTOOK. It is Friday morning. The trains are bringing large numbers of people from the State Fair held in Lewiston the past week. Some of the excursion- ists are singing " Oh ! be joyful ! " and " We won't go home till morning ! " " No, I'll be blowed if I go home on this morning train," says a fellow over there. " I'm bound to sell my ticket, and raise a dollar for a good time with my friends." Now is a chance for a small speculation. Let us see what he has. "Look here, Mister! Let us see your ticket. Ha! ha!" "It is for Presque Isle, away up in the Aroostook," he says. " Reg'lar price, seven dollars. Will sell it for one fifty ; but you'll have to put it through by daylight to get there before twelve o'clock Saturday night, or it's no good." Well, do you believe the blowed bacchanalian has sold me his ticket for one dollar fifty, good for a ride to Presque Isle, over ninety miles? We must leave on the four o'clock train and stop over at OLDTOWN on the Maine Central Railroad. It has been a pleasant ride, and we are in the town before dark. ON TO THE AROOSTOOK. 19 Ah ! There is Past Grand Master E. W. Conant passing by. He sees us ; he comes this way ; lie is here. " Brother Conant, can you direct us to an inn, a place of rest and safety for the night? " He invites ns to a scat in his carriage. Have we come so quickly? "Here is an inn, brothers." Surely the grounds, the trees, the hall, are familiar to my eyes. Brother Conant is point- ing. He says, " The door is open : enter, my brothers. My house is your home — enjoy its attractions and its comforts. Mrs. Conant is a Rebekah. She will entertain you for a while. Please excuse me." Now that we have been refreshed by an enjoy- able supper we will accompany our good brother to Tarratine Lodge. It occupies a fine new hall on the main street, built a few years ago and publicly dedicated. It is a profitable investment of money, and reflects great credit upon the projectors. The hour of lodge meeting is seven o'clock the year round, so that the aged and infirm brothers may attend, as well as the younger members. There is no work or business of special impor- tance before the lodge to-night ; but the brothers are ready to fill up the time with interesting talk and friendly greetings. I recall the faces of Brothers Noyes, Snow, Na- son, Swan, Emerson, Walker, Spofford, McCars- land, and others, whom I used to meet in the old hall on the hill. 20 ON THE ROAD. It is Saturday morning. The sky betokens rain. Brother Conant is tapping gently on our door. He says, "Breakfast is ready." Six o'clock is not an early hour for travelling men to break- fast, when the train starts at 6.30 on an all-day journey. It is not pleasant parting with kind friends in this hurried manner ; but time and railroad con- ductors wait for no man. On we go at a moder- ate rate of speed. There is little of interest along the way to attract the eye of the traveller. We are nearing Vanceborough, the boundary- line station between Maine and New Brunswick. Here Her Majesty's custom officials will demand an examination of all baggage going through her territory. How is this? Our baggage is not among the lot. We hold the checks, but the careless baggage- master at Oldtown has neglected to put the grips on board the train. Telegraph back ! Sue the railroad company for damages ! That will be no use. A few books and a box of collars are of little account. But no train will leave Oldtown to arrive in Presque Isle before Monday noon. How dreadful ! No changes over Sunday. Well, there is one consolation — the custom-house offi- cers can't inspect our baggage this trip. Well, here we start again. Who is that portly gentleman two seats ahead? It is Dr. Hathaway, of Presque Isle. He is enjoying a hearty laugh. ON TO THE AROOSTOOK. 21 I will speak a word in his ear, and see if he catches the meaning. " Yes," he says, " I'm one of 'em, and there are others on board the train bound by the links." We shall soon get a sight of fine scenery along the Aroostook river, cross nu- merous bridges, and pass " the falls." It has been a long, tedious journey; but we are now at the station. The doctor's offer is a most generous one. He says if we will hold his little daughter on our knees while he drives the horse we may ride to the village, where com- fortable quarters will be provided for the night, and on Sunday morning he will convey us six miles, to the home of my friend, Capt. S. C. F. Smith. It has been a pleasure to hold the child, ride in the easy carriage, and see the sights along the way — all new and of interest to us ; and now we are at the doctor's house, enjoying the hospitalities of his courteous family. We will take a walk on the street. It is early in the evening. Perhaps we may find some brothers of the mystic tie. We have actually set our feet upon the " garden spot" of Maine. The village has a citified look: electric-lights, opera house, large wood and brick blocks, and people everywhere interested and active in prosecuting the vocations of their choice. We cannot know unless we ask for information, so we will step into this " five and ten cent store," 22 ON THE ROAD. and see if there are any signs exhibited whereby we may know a brother. Yes, there are the three links on the proprietor's vest. It is Brother C. P. Purrington. How quickly and cordially he shakes our hands ! Mr. C. E. Humphries and C. O. Perry, on the opposite side of the street, are also members of the order. They say, "The woods are full of 'em." We will now retire for the night. Doctors are expected to make professional calls on Sunday as well as on other days, when people requi/e their services. Four miles on the road to MAPLETON to visit the sick and relieve the distressed is " a Sabbath day's journey," to be sure. But the Good Samaritan is commanded to perform humane deeds at all times. With a veteran brother in charge, who has seen years and experienced many changes, and the brother who has accompanied him on his journey thus far, it will not be an act of cour- tesy on the part of the doctor to drop us both by the roadside, — when we are so near to Captain Smith's house, — and return to the vil- lage, leaving us strangers to tread the rough way alone, without a guide. We have nothing to fear in that direction. I can see from this hill a neat white house over ON TO THE AROOSTOOK. 23 in the field beyond the store. " Doctor, I will venture a guess that that is the captain's home." " You have hit it right the first time, major. That is where the captain lives. He is standing in the front door." " You call me ' major ' — I'm no military character, although I have scaled the walls of Jericho." Ah, Stephen, my old friend ! We meet once more, after a separation of nearly twenty-five years. This meeting carries our memories back to the days when the boys in blue went march- ing forward to the scenes of battle on Southern soil. You were among the brave who dared to do and suffer for your country's good. You are my brother, not of the triple links, but almost of kin — one of the dear friends I love so well. There is no lodge of Odd Fellows at Maple- ton ; but we shall meet a number of brothers who are members of the order at Presque Isle, Houl- ton, Fort Fairfield, Patten, Caribou, and Wash- burn. It will be a good plan to get the boys all to- gether and hold a social meeting. We will elect Brother Edwin A. Smith, President; Albert Ball, Vice-President ; Charles Hughs, Secretary ; Oliver P. Smith, Treasurer; Brothers Ingreham, Carr, Twist, Dudley, and Jackson a Committee on Good and Welfare. The place for holding the meeting will be in Captain Smith's store, on some rainy evening. It will be a public meeting. The 24 ON THE ROAD. captain and his son may be present. " Rex " will be appointed door-keeper. The question for dis- cussion will be on growing potatoes and grain, making starch, raising stock, horses, and neat cattle, and shaving shingles. All these matters have a direct bearing on the existence and main- tenance of Odd Fellow lodges in Aroostook County; for without them there would be no material for making lodges. Having accomplished our purposes in this town, we must cover the ground that we travelled one week ago, and return to Presque Isle and spend the evening with the brothers of the lodge' that bears the name of the village. The hall is over Brother N. J. Johnson's harness-shop. There is a good attendance to-night. Some of the brothers have come six miles to enjoy the meet- ing. Here is Brother Joshua K. Damon. Long years ago he and I were schoolmates in a small village in the eastern section of Maine ; and here also is Brother Howard M. Dorman, a native of Machias, Maine, in the same county, a son of the late D. W. Dorman, for many years Registrar of Deeds. Brother Reader, do you see any names among the members present that are familiar to you ? : — W. S. Kimball, J. J. Howes, W. C. Smith, George P. Dennett, J. A. Frazier, Alden Chandler, Will- iam Brown. This has been a very enjoyable meeting. We will now go with Brother N. J. ON TO THE AROOSTOOK. 2$ Johnson and spend the night at his home. Satur- day we will view the town and note all points of interest. The day is waning. We have traversed a large territory and conversed with many people. We are now ready .to accompany Brother Damon to his home, a little way out of the vil- lage, to spend the night. It is Sunday morning, bright and beautiful. We can enjoy the out-of-door air, and be enter- tained by the young Misses Damon with their music and singing. It is in keeping with the sacred day to visit the last resting-place of those whom we have known and been associated with on life's journey. Here is a conspicuous white marble column within this enclosure, bearing a quaint inscription. I will read it. The letters were cut upon the stone under the eye of the man whose name stands at the head. It is characteristic of the old editor. It reads: "Daniel Stickney. Born Nov. 25, 1804. Until 18 years of age, a farmer's boy, 25 years a mechanic and teacher of common schools, 25 years a lay preacher of the gospel as taught by David in XXIII psalm, by Jesus Christ in his Sermon on the Mount, by Paul upon Mars Hill to the Athenians, and in the XII chapter of Romans. For half a century a newspaper writer, and for 14 years proprietor and editor of the Prcsquc Isle Sunrise. A Republican from his earliest recollection to the day of his death." 26 ON THE ROAD. I read on the headstones the names of others whom I have met at pleasant reunions of the " Maine Editors' and Publishers' Association." But we can tarry no longer. The chilly north wind reminds us that the days are nearing the season of frosts, when thick wraps and mittens will be comfortable. It is Monday afternoon. Brother Damon is at the door with his fine turnout — black stallion "Mohock" and top buggy. We are to give the members of Aroostook Valley Lodge at Caribou a surprise to-night. Quite a delegation from Presque Isle Lodge will start at a later hour and meet us at the hall. The way is pleasant, and let us hope that our journey will be safe. We have a twelve-mile drive over a beautiful section of the country. Cast your eye over the extensive land- scape. There are no waste or uncultivated lands on either side of the highway. Green fields and large, tidy farm-houses occupy the broad acres. The soil is free from stones, light, and easily worked. These are some of the homes of the early settlers. They show what industry and frugality have brought to the pioneers in the wilds of northern Maine. But see ! We are entering the village. The hands of the clock on the church point to 4.30. Mohock has performed the journey quickly. Here is the Vaughn House, a place of entertain- ment for weary travellers. Let us enter and take ON TO THE AROOSTOOK. 27 some refreshment. Here is Hon. H. M. Heath, of Augusta, a member of the Kennebec bar, for- merly principal of Washington Academy at Ease Machias. He is here on business connected with the Water Power Company. We will now accompany Brother Damon to Odd Fellows Hall. Both the Noble and Vice Grands are on the sick list, and Past Grand P. S. Goud is master of the gavel to-night. The brother at my right is Past Grand T. W. Willis. He was a con- stant and interesting correspondent of the "Odd Fellows' Register" years ago, when I published the paper. The attendance is small, owing to the sickness of the officers, and because there is no business of importance to attend to. We are invited to spend the night with Brother Goud. His house is up the street a little way. Brother N. L. Johnson, a twofold brother of N. A. Johnson at Presque Isle, desires us to call at his store in the morning, that he may " show us the sights " about town. The team is now in waiting at the door. We ascend this hill, one and three-fourths miles. Here is the stand-pipe. The water is brought one hundred and eighty feet from the river, where a dam is being constructed at a cost of $30,000. The business centre of the village lies between two high hills. The river between them is spanned by a bridge. Along the banks of the river the caribou herded in the days when the red man 28 ON THE ROAD. possessed the northern forests. Now how changed the scene ! Where once stood the tall pines in an unbroken wilderness inhabited by Indians and wild beasts, appears a thrifty village, with thousands of inhabitants. Business in stores, shops, mills, and factories is booming; school- houses and churches are numerous ; religious and educational institutions are ably supported ; social and fraternal organizations contribute their part toward elevating and blessing mankind. The train for FORT FAIRFIELD leaves at 2.25. We have little time before our walk to Brother Johnson's house for dinner. Ah! Here I see Nicholas Fessenden, Esq., Clerk of the Maine House of Representatives and Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge I.O.O.F. He is en route for " The Fort." We will follow in his wake. It is the meeting night of Pioneer Lodge. " Professor" Scates, C. E. Dinsmore, E. L. Houghton, B. F. Durgin, F. L. McDonald, and other active members of the order, are on the cor- ner looking for us. They are curious to know who the "squire" has in charge. When they learn that it is a Past Grand who has served his time forty years as such, they take council to- gether, and decide that the best thing to do is to ON TO THE AROOSTOOK. 29 conduct him to the inn, where the door is open. The brother, no longer a stranger, is invited to enter. They speak a word to the host, saying, " Take care of him, and whatsoever you expend for his comfort we will recompense you therefor." Such, kind reader, is the story of the Good Sa- maritan in Aroostook County, Maine. 30 ON THE ROAD. Chapter VI. HOMEWARD BOUND. It is Wednesday morning, September 25. " Up ! Up ! Breakfast is ready." It is five o'clock. We must " hustle " to eat our breakfast and reach the station, for the train leaves in forty minutes. " All aboard ! " We have Mr. Carlisle, of Somerville, Mass,, for our companion on the road. There is a jovial party on board. We are moving at " slow coach " speed. " Five minutes for refreshments at Newburgh Junction." Mr. Carlisle isn't going to " get left." He has brought his cup of coffee, sandwich, and doughnuts along with him from the table. " Had just time to step on board as the train moved away from the platform." We have had lots of fun all the way on the long, tedious journey. We are thank- ful that we have arrived safely in Bangor. We will now move on to DEXTER. Let us stop a few moments at the station and chat with Brother E. J. Sturtevant, " Sam " Ham- ilton, Dexter Nason, and some of the other " boys," before going up into the village. HOMEWARD BOUND. 31 Plymouth Lodge meets on Tuesday evening. We cannot remain in the town four days. We will look up the brothers on the streets, in their places of business, take a stroll down by the "Stone Mill," the "Brick Mill," and among the other manufacturing establishments. Dexter is a stirring business town, furnishing employment to hundreds of men and women. Here is my old brother and friend, Past Grand O. W. Bridges. Dr. C. H. Haynes is in his dental rooms. He may be able to divert his attention for a few moments from the critical work he is engaged in. Moses, of whom we read in the Bible, is passing this way. He is looking very meek and good-natured. There are Brothers Roberts, King, Harris, Farrar, and others. We must speak a word with them before we leave town. Brother E. M. Tibbetts, the undertaker, has kindly offered us a seat in his carriage for a drive about the village. Such friendly courtesies are appreciated by me, and most gladly we accept the proffered benefaction. Now we get a grand view of the picturesque town — those high grounds sloping toward the river, with beautiful shade- trees along its banks. The long distance from the railroad station to the business part of the town is an "out;" but the track is to be ex- tended next season farther up into the village. Then a branch road leading to Dover and Fox- croft will be completed. 32 ON THE ROAD. We have enjoyed the pleasant drive and " taken in " all the beauties of the town. We will now say good-by to our brothers and friends, and return over the road we came this morning and stop awhile at NEWPORT. Well do I remember the events connected with instituting "Old Hickory" Lodge, Number 104, on the afternoon and late into the night of De- cember 7, 1883, in Masonic Hall. We have to wait here for the arrival of the train from Bangor going west. We cannot oc- cupy the time more pleasantly than by calling round and interviewing Brothers Young, Judkins, Wardwell, Marsh, Mitchell, and Bennett. Most of them are employees of the Maine Central Rail- road. It is nearing the hour of nine o'clock. The full, bright moon eclipses the colored lights about the station, and is " a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path." Hear the whistle ! " Newport ! Newport ! All aboard ! " We are on the way to WATERVILLE. Everything about the not-many-years-ago busy town, now a booming city, appears natural to my eye. I am on old, familiar ground, among HOMEWARD BOUND. 33 brothers and friends with whom I have passed many enjoyable hours. We must not quit the place for a number of days, there are so many hands to grasp, so much to see. Let us walk down on Elm street and enter the harness-shop. Here is Brother Robbins. " Fred " is at his old business with needles and tools, executing fine work on leather and upholstery, stopping occa- sionally to sound a note on his " Ai " cornet. It is at Mrs. Spencer's house, a little way from Brother Robbins's shop, we find pleasant boarding accommodations. It has been my stopping-place during sundry visits to the city in years past. I " never go back on old friends." Our best plan is to board the horse-cars and go two miles to FAIRFIELD village this afternoon, that we may spend a little time with brothers and friends before the hour of Fairfield Lodge meeting to-night. Here is our genial friend and Veteran Past Grand, John R. Foss, with Past Grand Ruckliff in the carpenter's shop near by. "You still live" are the words of their greeting. It is evening. We will ascend these stairs near the entrance of the post-office in Odd Fellows Block. It is the same hall which I assisted in dedicating fifteen years ago, and where I have spent many an enjoyable evening since that 34 ON THE ROAD. memorable event. Here we meet once more Brothers Bradbury, Kendall, Blackwell, Knowlton, Merrill, — good old Simeon, — Perkins, and scores of others, who are always at their post of duty, ready and willing to bear aloft the banner of Friendship, Love, and Truth. This evening's proceedings carry my mind back to the early days of my acquaintance with the brothers of Fairfield Lodge. We must now' separate from our kind brothers and return to Waterville on the last car. Brother H. C. Hight and Ed. P. Mayo, editor of the " Journal," we will call upon " some other day." What is going on in Odd Fellows Block, Water- ville, to-night? It is Wednesday evening. Samar- itan Lodge meets. Here are many of the same old company I have frequently met upon similar occasions: Brothers S. S. Vose, Chamberlain, Gilpatrick, "Billy" Smith, Stewart, W. 1. and J. L. Towne, William True, Henry Williams, Davis, and Charley Dyrample. They are here to exemplify the teachings of the Bible as set forth in the Gospel of St. Luke, loth chapter, 30th verse : " A certain man went down from Jerusa- lem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead." Samaritan is the name of this lodge, and most assuredly the brothers are, or should be, Good Samaritans indeed ! They hear and heed the cry, — HOMEWARD BOUND. 35 " O friends and brothers, gliding down the years, Humanity is calling each and all, In tender accents born of grief and tears : I pray you listen to the tender call ! You cannot in j'our seliish pride Pass guiltless by upon the other side." Our next objective point is OAKLAND, for many years West Waterville, eight miles from this city, on the line of the Maine Central Railroad. Mr. Crosby Shorey, the veteran livery-stable keeper, has kindly offered us the use of a fine turnout — his family horse " Yankee " — for a drive over to Oakland village. Forty-five years ago Mr. Shorey was a contractor for carrying the United States mails, by four-horse post-coach, from Machias to Eastport and Calais, in Washing- ton County, Maine, passing daily through Dennys- ville, my native village. He has always regarded me with kindly feelings, and, in token of his con- tinued friendship, has conferred this generous favor upon us. We will drive out of the city by " Crommett's Mills," and make our first stopping-place at Benjamin & Allen's shop. Here is Brother E. C. Blackwell, the first Noble Grand of Anion Lodge, instituted Nov. 2, 1882. Brother Black- well has been in the employ of Messrs. Allen & Co. nearly twenty years. He was one of the 36 ON THE RCKD. earnest workers in establishing the lodge in this village, and has always been one of its firm supporters. At the first starting the lodge rented a small hall over a dwelling-house on the main street. The rapid increase in membership made necessary larger and better quarters, which were secured by reconstructing the old Masonic Hall in the brick block nearly opposite the Maine Central Railroad depot. The hall is fitted up in fine style and neatly furnished, each order sharing equally the expense. We will accompany Brother Blackvvell, and take a survey of the interior of the hall. It is complete in all its appointments. There are a number of axe and scythe factories, foundries, mills, and manufactories, utilizing the excellent water-power on the river, and furnishing em- ployment to hundreds of industrious and in- telligent men who compose the membership of Amon lodge. We shall be pleased to make the acquaintance of some of them to-day. Brother S. C. Sawtelle is at leisure, and offers to drive us over the village and introduce us to any we may chance to meet by the way. Here are Brothers Stevens, Frost, Pride, Dustin, McClure, Fossett, Kellcy, Lord, Parker, and a number of others. We will dine and rest at Brother Sawtelle's house, and then return to the city. We are just in time to get on board " Jewett's train," and reach my home in Portland at 3.30 o'clock. \ HOMEWARD BOUND. 37 Brother Reader, you have kept close watch of me all the way on my long journey. You will now permit me to rest a few clays at home. Then we will take a new start. Exit Reader — the door closes. 38 ON THE ROAD. Chapter VII. MAKING THE CIRCUIT. OCTOBER 7, 1889. I have enjoyed a few days of rest among my friends, and am now ready for our other pilgrimage. I invite your company, Brother Reader. We will step on board the horse- car at the head of Preble street, Portland, go one mile to Deering, and stop at WOODFORD CORNER, where we meet Brothers Parkman, Sawyer, Hill, Lowell, Mitchell, Adams, Benson, and others, who are working this evening in Fraternity Lodge, instituted March 26, 1886. It is one of the active, prosperous lodges in the State, gaining rap- idly in membership. There are a large number of brothers belonging to the order residing in Deer- ing, members of the different lodges in Portland, who assist the new lodge in many ways. The important duties of innkeeper were performed at various times during the first months of the lodge's existence by a veteran Past Grand of forty years. The brothers frequently speak of " his way of entertaining weary and suffering travellers." „ We must board the Portland and Rochester Making the circuit. 39 train at the Woodford station. Brother Parkman will put us on the right track, and Superintendent Peter's pass on the road is exempt from Con- ductor Clcaves's puncher, so we are all right. See ! We have come five miles to CUMBERLAND MILLS. Here are S. D. Warren & Co.'s paper-mills — " the largest in the world." The buildings occupy over seven acres of ground. The company employ some eight hundred men and women ; the monthly pay-roll is upwards of $30,000; between forty and fifty tons of finished paper are shipped daily. Mr. J. E. Warren is superintendent of the mills. Ammoncogin Lodge was -instituted in this vil- lage Feb. 5, 1 88 1. Among its active members are Brothers C. W. Mace, E. W. Ayer, A. C. Chute, 'Dud" T. Swan, C. H. Leighton, C. E. Holt, W. H. Hammond, C. W. Troy, and Edgar A. Durell. There is much of interest connected with the village and lodge ; but we have no time now to devote* to it, but must proceed on one mile to SACCARAPPA, a stirring village, now the city of Westbrook. We can take the train now ready to start. We are hardly seated before " Saccarapp' ! " is announced by the conductor. In its early days 40 ON THE ROAD. it was a lumber manufacturing place. There are cotton, woollen, and silk mills here, iron foundries, shoe factories, and numerous industries, furnish- ing employment for men and women. The people belong to that class called " jinners," for almost every namable secret and social organization exists in the village. Among them is Saccarappa Lodge I.O.O.F., instituted May 24, 1844. It is the fourth in the State, having held its charter forty-five consecutive years. It has a unique record. The lodge meeting is Friday evening. We cannot stop over, but must proceed on to GORHA.M. It will compensate in some degree for the disap- pointment and loss in not gathering with the brothers in the lodge-room to meet them on the street, where I have exchanged pleasant greetings daily for more than two years, on my rounds in newspaper work. Gorham is a classic town. The Gorham Normal School is established here, ably conducted by Professor Corthell. It is also the home of Hon. ex-Governor Robie, widely known among the " Patrons of Husbandry." He has held the highest executive office in the State. Gorham Lodge was instituted Jan. 15, 1883, and now numbers over one hundred and forty mem- bers. The names of Lowell, Hayes, Harding, Shackford, Coburn, Bolton, Summerside, and MAKING THE CIRCUIT. 41 McLellan are familiar to Odd Fellows who have spent a little time in looking up members of the order in that village. A cordial reception is given to all visiting brothers at the lodge. We shall have a change at our next stopping- place, " Saco River " station — take the mail stage for a four- mile drive to WEST BUXTON VILLAGE. Before we undertake the tedious journey through the mud, we will walk down in this part of the town called " BAR MILLS," and call upon Brothers Meserve, Locke, S. J. and C. H. Towle, and Palmer, at the post-office, Flint and Harmon at the furniture mills — all worthy members of Saco Valley Lodge. They reside so far from the place of meeting that they seldom have the privilege of participating in the work of the lodge, but they are ever ready to assist in advancing its " good and welfare." Here we are on our way, closely packed between two women, our legs pinioned by the staring man on the middle seat. He answers to the name of gentleman. Perhaps the ladies judge him otherwise. The way is anything but pleasant, and there are fears that the journey may not be safe ; but we will hope for the best. It is Wedhes- 42 ON THE ROAD. day. This is the evening of the lodge meeting. There is Brother Charles Hobson, standing in the doorway of his store. He beckons us that way. Brother James H. Towle, Noble Grand, invites us to walk over the bridge. What a droll name for a village — " Moderation " ! It does not imply that the people " let their moderation be known unto all men, " but it is the sluggish moving of the waters onward through the Saco valley that gives it its name. Manufacturing and shipping lumber is the principal business of the place. Buxton and Hollis are connected by the bridge we are cross- ing. There are visitors present from Highland Lodge, Limerick, this evening. The boys are to have a pleasant entertainment. We shall make the ac- quaintance of a number of them. Let us break " the ring " that has been formed, and clasp hands with those that are extended towards us. Here are Brothers Bradbury, " Ed " Hobson, Barnes, Bason, Sawyer, Judkins, Partridge, Sands, Cobb, Smith, Goldthwait, Tarbox, and others. It is nearly six years since I met them all. It has been a good and pleasant thing to sit among the brothers to-night. We have enjoyed a hearty laugh, and helped to put away a portion of the delicious ice-cream and cake. Now come the good-night partings, and we hear the pleasant words, " Come again." MAKING THE CIRCUIT. 43 The coach is at the door right on time — six o'clock. We have hardly finished breakfast. Here we are jogging along over the same old road to Saco River station. Our next stop is SOUTH WATERBORO', a small village. Smith's Steam Saw- mills, coat and pants shops, and farming are the resources of the people. Enterprise Lodge was instituted November 5, 1880. It numbers one hundred and seventeen members to-day. The attendance at the weekly meetings is generally small. Many of the brothers reside miles distant from the hall. Should we be in the village some Monday, we should be likely to meet Brothers Thynge, Emery, Carll, Will. C. Thynge, A. H. Ricker, Guptill, Harding, J. Allen Smith, F. W. Littlefield, and F. E. Libby at their posts, conducting the business of the lodge. It is now the busy season. It will be difficult to find many of the brothers. We will go to the station ; the train will soon arrive. " All aboard for SPRING vale!" Here we are — free coach to the hotel. Kept by Brother W. A. Lowe, — good quarters. We will walk about the village and see what is going on, 44 ON THE ROAD. The shoe business must be booming. Three large buildings are going up. There are woollen mills on the river in operation. My good brother and friend, " Ben," is not in his harness-shop. A gentleman on the street says, " Hamilton is sick — confined to his house." We will go immediately and see him. Glad to find him improving, with good prospects of speedy recovery. There are a number of brothers on the street — old acquaintances. I will introduce you to Brother Lord at the dry-goods store ; Wentworth, the undertaker; A. J. Smith, merchant, many years Treasurer of Friendship Lodge ; Chenery at the coat-shops; Frank Lowe, D.D.G.M. ; Mer- rill, Butler, Dexter, Ellis, and " Charley" Hamil- ton. There are few brothers present at the lodge this evening. Too many attractions outside. It is good to retire early after a day of hard tramping. We will improve this opportunity to make up for the late hours in the past, and more that are to follow. Our journey is onward. Wo shall shortly cross the boundary line between Maine and New Hamp- shire. Rochester station is the junction. We will change cars and take passage over the Boston & Maine line to GREAT FALLS, N.H., half an hour's ride. There is nothing of interest along the route. MAKING THE CIRCUIT. 45 Here is the city. Large brick and stone blocks. Manufacturing establishments appear at all points. We will defer our survey of the town at present. Cross the bridge here, and we get into " OLD BERWICK." It is twelve o'clock. Now is the time to see lots of " the boys " at the shoe factory up the street. Yes, here are Guptill, Toothaker, Foy, Dow, Mc- Donald, Hodsdon, Wakefield, Hutchinson, Den- nett, Ford, and Huntress, — all preparing to take their noonday meal and enjoy a social smoke. This meeting reminds me of other days, when I used to drop in among the brothers ; always find- ing them with open hands, speaking words of good-will and encouragement. We will now call upon a brother and true friend who possesses a large heart. His deeds of benevo- lence and charity are many. It is Past Grand James L. Stone. Had I time I would recount to you the comfort and happiness I experienced in days gone by, while I was a recipient of hospital- ities at his home. Brother Stone and his estimable w'fe have always been my steadfast friends. Their doors have been open to me, and the kind word " Welcome " has saluted my ears at every meet- ing. He is employed in the shoe-shop over the river at Great Falls. We will accompany him this afternoon. He has obtained permission of 4© ON THE ROAD. the "boss" for us to enter the shop and speak a word with Brothers Clark, Winneford, Eaton, Merrill, and other members of Washington Lodge, The time of our permit is up. We will retire. Many thanks to the management for the courtesies extended. A few steps over the bridge bring us back into Maine. There are a number of brothers we can see before the meeting of Echo Lodge this evening. We will take Main street up from the post-office. Brother " Will " Rich is out of the office, busy on G. A. R. matters He is a wounded man. " Uncle Sam " has given him at- tention. " P.M. " stands at the end of his name. Here are Skillings, Cooper, Wilson, and Spencer. "Come in! Have a seat on the head of this barrel ! ' This is very kind in you, Brother Skillings, to give us the best chair your store affords. The lamps are lighted in the hall. Brothers O. W. and F. M. Guptill, Bragden, "Tom" Knox, Wentworth, Eastman, Clement, and Robinson are here, wide awake and full of fun, as usual. It has been one of my old-time meetings to-night. Is it any wonder why the boys grow fat? Some of them show that they enjoy the good things of life as much as Jay Gould or the Vanderbilts. We are told that " there is no rest," and such is our daily experience. We must go on, and still on, to complete the circuit of this journey. It is at Salmon Falls, N.H., station we are MAKING THE CIRCUIT. 47 stopping. We have sufficient time to cross the river to SOUTH BERWICK VILLAGE,, on the other side, and interview Brother H. A. Farn- ham, Permanent Secretary of Olive Branch Lodge. Perhaps he may spare the time to show us through the shop, where there are a number of brothers employed. Brother Farnham has examined my credentials, and kindly offers to show " the boys " the content of m, grip. Many of them have known the Veteran Past Grand for years, and they give us a hearty shake of the hand. Brother Farn- ham says, " Follow me." Here we see Brothers Hubbard, Dudley, Hassey, Gillis, Edwin Farnham, Bredeen, Hemcnway, and Ridley. These com- prise the full number of brothers employed in the shops. They represent the material of which the lodge is composed — ready and willing to engage in any work that tends to advance the interests of Odd Fellowship. This evening we shall have Brother William C. Butler for an escort. He will introduce us to Brothers Bailey at the bookbindery, D. E. and John A. Mclntire at the hardware store. It is raining, and disagreeable walking about the streets ; but we cannot meet our friends every day. Let us make our way through the crowd gathered to listen to the music of the band. " There is a show to-night." Brothers Joy and Murphy are here. 48 ON THE ROAD. See ! Brother Bodge has taken the last copy and labelled my grip, " Empty is the cradle." There will be a new supply at our next stopping-place, NORTH BERWICK. Here we are surrounded by a band of brothers good and true. Captain "Will" H. Austin, of Canton Columbian, P. M., and Grand Patriarch of the Grand Encampment of Maine, is at the head of the column, calling the boys into line on their march to Odd Fellows Hall, where they are to hold a reunion with the Veteran Past Grand. You, kind Reader, are invited to be one of the number. I will lean on your right arm while we are travelling the rough road. Here are the rank and file. They step to the music of the band. " Fall in, boys ! ' : David Austin, Fremont Allen, Charles Evans, J. Fred Neal, George W. Perkins, Walter Small, John Tufts, Charles Tobie, A.J Allen, 2d, John A. Sevey, George H. Cole, W. B. Littlefield, " Ed " Collins, L. H. Estes, Fred. A. Estes, Charles Goodwin, C. W. Albee, Dr. McCorison, James Austin, David Nutter, E. W. Adams, J. M. Estes, Otis Littlefield, Edwin H. Grant, MAKING THE CIRCUIT. 49 and a host of others. Listen to the words of their song, floating out on the clear air : — " Though o'er life's desert dreary Like pilgrims still we stray, We'll aid our brother weary, And cheer him on his way; Then if he fall beside us, When kindness fails to save, The evergreen of friendship We'll strew upon his grave. "Our mission's one of mercy, Our purposes are high ; We heed the moan of sorrow, And th' needy when they cry ; We help the lonely widow, And orphans in their youth, And they shall bless the order Of Friendship, Love, and Truth.'" This is a joyful occasion for the members of Eagle Lodge, Number 47, instituted January 20, 1875. To-day it is strong and prosperous, and the brothers bear proudly aloft their banner in- scribed With " FRIENDSHIP, LOVE, AND TRUTH." " KENNEBUNK NEXT," says the polite brakeman. We will hie over the hills as quickly as possible, before the clock in the tower strikes twelve — the signal for the doors of the mills and factories to close, and for the work- men to go to their homes. Brother George 5