r"\^---^ ^ \ 807.75 Rivers, Dean^ R52I4.C Coniindr-uins, riddles, 6550 >/ and puzzles i 3M-- ^^ - W/IT l: onundrum^ Riddles and Puzzles Containing one thousewnd of the late./^ and beyt Conundrums, gewthered from every conceiva^ble source, and comprising many tha.t are entirely new and origined By DEAN RIVERS ^ %ns ^m Philadelphia The Penn Publishing Company 1903 Copyright 1893 by The Penn Publishing CoMrANV Copyright 1900 ';y The Penn Publishing Company SRK URli Q(^ln^^ reasons. Wh}^ is a stick of candy like a race-horse ? Because the more you lick it the faster it goes. Why is a naughty school-boy like a postage^ stamp ? Because you lick him with a stick and stand him in the corner. Wh}^ is I the luckiest of all the vowels ? Be- cause it is in the centre of bliss, while E is in hell and all the others are in purgatory. What is the longest word in the English language ? Smiles, because there is a mile be- tween the first and last letter. Why have chickens no fear of a future state } Because they have their next world (necks twirled) in this. 28 Why cannot a deaf man be legally convicted ? Because it is unlawful to condemn a man with- out a hearing. Why is a man who beats his wife like a thor- ough-bred horse ? Because he's a perfect brute. What is that which you can keep after giving to some one else ? Your word. Why are teeth like verbs ? Because they are regular, iiTegular, and defective. Why is Queen Victoria like a hat ? Because they both have crowns. Why is a plum -pudding like the ocean ? Be- cause it contains man}- currants. Who niaj' marry man}- a wife and still be single all his life ? A clergyman. Why is Athens like a worn-out shoe ? Be- cause it once had a Solon (sole on). Why are washerwomen great travelers ? Be- cause they are continually crossing the line and running irom pole to pole. What part of a fish is like the end of a book ? The fin-is. What is a common miracle in Ireland ? Wak- ing the dead 20 Why are bachelors had grammarians ? Be cause when asked to conjugate they invariably decline. When could the British Empire be purchased for the lowest sum ? When Richard the Tliird offered his kingdom for a horse. What is the largest room in the world ? Tlie room for improvement. Why is a street-car like the heart of a co- quette ? Because there is always room for one more to be taken in. When ma}^ a man be said to breakfast before he gets up ? When he takes a roll in bed. Why are dealers in glassware unlike all other dealers ? Because it won't do for them to crack up their goods. What is it that a gentleman has not, never can have, and 3'et can give to a lady ? A hus- band. Wh}^ is a man just imprisoned like a boat full of water? Because he requires bailing out. When does a ship tell a falsehood ? When she lies at the wharf When is a theatrical manager like an as- tronomer ? When he discovers a new star. 30 What is the difference between a mother and a 1)arber? The latter has razors to shave and the former has shavers to raise. Why are pianos noble characters ? Because they are grand, upright, and square. What are they which, though always drunk, are never intoxicated ? Toasts. When is a fowl's neck like a bell ? When it's rung for dinner. Why is a crow the bravest bird in the world ? Because it never shows the white feather. Why is a vote in Congress like a bad cold ? Because sometimes the ayes (eyes) have it, and sometimes the noes (nose). Why are some girls like old muskets ? Be- cause they use a good deal of powder, but won't go off. What kind of medicine does a man take for a scolding wife? He takes an elixir (an' he licks her). Why is a dirty man like flannel ? Because he shrinks from washing. What is the difference between a young maiden of sixteen and an old maid of sixty ? One is happy and careless, and the other is cappy and hairless. 31 Why is a pair of skates like an apple? Be- cause they have both occasioned the fall of man. What is most like a hen stealing ? A cock- robin. If Old Nick were to lose his tail, vvhere would he go to get another ? To a grog-shop, because bad spirits are retailed there. Why is a 3^oung man engaged to a young lady like a man sailing for a port in France ? Because he is bound to Havre (have herj. Why is the opening of a new dr^^-goods store lika a house on fire ? Because it starts all the bells (belles) in the city. Why would it be impossible to starve in the desert of Sahara ? Because of the sand which is (sandwiches) there. How did the sandwiches get there ? When Ham was sent there with his followers, who were bred (bread) and mustered (mustard). If a tough beefsteak could speak, what Eng- lish poet would it mention ? Chaucer ( chaw, sir). Why can 3'ou never expect a fisherman to be generous ? Because his business makes him sell fish. 3^ When is a bonnet not a bonnet ? When it becomes a pretty woman. Why are young ladies bad. grammarians? Because so few can decUne matrimony. Why can a blind man alwaj^s see his father ? Because the father is always apparent (^a parent). What does Washington, D. C, stand for? Washington, daddy of his country. Why was a defeated candidate after the late election, like the earth ? Because he was flat- tened at the poles. When was beef the highest ? When the cow jumped over the moon. What ailment is the oak most subject to ? A com (acorn). Why does a horse eat in a very odd w^ay ? Because he eats best when he has not a bit in his mouth. What is the only organ without stops ? A woman's organ of speech. Give an Irishman's definition of a lake. A hole in the tay-kettle. Why is man superior to woman ? Because woman is onlv a side issue. 33 Why is a lady when sick at sea like some of our literary men? Because she is a con- tributor to the Atlajitic. Why is a scolding wife like a thing of beauty ? *' Because she is a joy (jaw; forever." What is the proper length for a young lady to wear her dress ? A little above two feet. Why is a man who never bets as bad as a gambler? Because he is no bettor (^better). When is a cigar like dried beef ? When it is smoked. What table has no legs to stand upon ? The multiplication table. How do young ladies sometimes show their dislike to mustaches ? By setting their faces against them. Wh}^ are there three objections to taking a glass of brandy ? Because there are three scru- ples to a dram. Why is the root of the tongue like a dejected man? Because it's down in the mouth. What is that which we often return, but never borrow ? Thanks. What animals are always seen at funeialsi' Black kids. 34 What is the difference between a I^rench pastry cook and a bill sticker ? One puffs up paste, the other pastes up puffs. Why is it vulgar to sing and play by your- self? Because it's so low (solo). Why is a dog biting his tail like a good manager ? Because he makes both ends meet. Why is a watch-dog larger by night than by day ? Because at night he is let out, and in the day he is taken in. Why did the Highlanders do most execution at Waterloo ? Because ever}^ man had one kilt before the battle. At what game do the weaves of the sea play ? At pitch and toss. Why are fow4s the most economical things a farmer can keep ? Because for every grain they give a peck. What is the difference between a pitcher of water and a man throwing his wife over a bridge ? One is w^ater in the pitcher, the other is pitch her in the water. When is a young lady not a 3'oung lady ? When she's a sweet tart (sweetheart). What confection did they have in the ark? Preserved pairs (pears). 35 Why should architects make excellent actors ? Because they are good at drawing houses. What weapon does a young man use if he kisses a young lady by mistake ? A blunder- buss. What is the difference between an auction and seasickness? One is a sale of effects, the other the effects of a sail. What should a clergyman preach about ? About a half of an hour. Why is an orange like a church steeple ? Be- cause we have a peel from it. What kind of a cat do we usually find in a large library ? A cat alogue. What sea would a man like to be in on a wet day? Adriatic (a dry attic). Why was the French Empress always in bad company ? Because she was always surrounded by Paris-ites. When was Napoleon First most shabbily dressed? When out at Elba (elbow). When was wit a father ? When a pun be- came apparent (a parent). What grows the less tired the more it works ? A carriage wheel. Why is the Louvre the cheapest palace ever erected? Because it was partly built for one sovereip^u, and finished for another. What is the difference between a craaie and the grave ? The one is for the first-born, the other for the last bourne. How is an elephant's head different from every other head ? Because, if you cut his head off from his body, you don't take it from the trunk. Why does a stingy German like mutton bet- ter than venison ? Because he prefers ' ' zat vich is sheep to zat vich is deer. ' ' Which is the most wonderful animal in the farmyard? A pig, because he is killed and then cured. Why is a poor conundrum like a monkey ? Because it was far-fetched and full of nonsense. If a tree were to break a window, what would the window say ? Tre-mend-us. What trees has fire no effect upon ? Ashes, as when burned, they're ashes still. What did Jack Frost say when he kissed the violet ? Wilt thou, and it wilted. When is a large river good for the eyes ? When it's eye (high) water. 37 What is the difference between a cloud and a whipped child? One pours with rain, the other roars with pain. What musical instrument invites you to fish ? Cast-a net. What river is that which runs between two seas ? The Thames, which runs between Chel- sea and Batter-sea. What is the difference between a fisherman and a lazy schoolboy ? One baits his hook, the other hates his book. What is that which you break by even nam- ing it ? Silence. When has a man four hands ? When he doubles his fists. What is the most difficult river on which to get a boat? Arno, because they're Arno boats there. What is the smallest bridge in the world ? The bridge of your nose. What is the difference between a spendthrift and a pillow ? One is hard up, the other is soft down. What is the difference between a hen and an idle musician ? One lays at pleasure the other plays at leisure. 38 Why are deaf people like India shawls ? Be- cause you can't make them here (hear). Why are book-keepers like chickens ? Be- cause they have to scratch for a living. What wind would a hungry sailor be apt to wish for ? One that blows fowl and chops about. What tongue is it that frequently hurts and grieves you, and yet does not speak a word ? The tongue of your shoe. Why is scraping out a turnip a noisy pro- ceeding ? Because it tnakes it hollow. What is that from w'ai. h you may take away the whole and still have some left ? The w^ord wliolesome. When is a neWvSpaper the sharpest ? When it is filed. Why is English grammar like gout ? Be- cause it's torture (taught 3'er). Give a good definition of a button. A small afiair that is always coming off. What is the greatest feat, in the eating w^a3% ever known ? That recorded of a man who commenced by bolting a door, after which he threw up a window, and theti sat down and swallowed a wdaole story. 39 What is the difference between a choir mas- ter and a lady^s dress? The one trains a choir, the other acquires a train. Why has a great g3^mnast very wonderful digestion ? Because he Hves on ropes and poles and thrives. What is a singular and melancholy fact in the history of IMilton ? That he could recite his poems but could not resight himself. Wh}' is Canada like courtship ? Because it borders on the United States. What is the difference between a farmer and a seamstress ? One gathers what he sows, the other sews what she gathers. What is the difference between a cow and an old chair? One gives milk, the other gives way (whey). Why is a washerwoman like Saturday ? Be- cause she brings in the clothes (closej of the week. Why is an actress like an angel ? Because we seldom see one that is not painted. At what time by the clock is a pun most effective ? When it strikes one. What is that which never asks any questions, but requires so many answers ? The door-bell 40 What kind of a book do some men wish their wives might resemble ? An almanac, for then they could have a new one every year. Why does the conductor cut a hole in your railroad ticket ? To let you pass through. Why is an old coat like iron ? Because it is a specimen of hardware (wear). Why is a list of celebrated musical composers like a sauce-pan ? Because it is incomplete without a Handel. In what key should a man propose to his sweetheart? Be mine, ah (B minor). When a church is burning, what is the only part that stands no chance at all of being saved ? The organ, because the engine can't play upon it. Why is the Fourth of July like an oyster ? Because we cannjt enjoy it without crack- ers. When is a newspaper like a delicate child ? When it appears weekly. If all the seas were dried up, what would old Neptune say? I really haven't an ocean (a notion). Why is the letter A like twelve o'clock ? Be- cause it comes in the middle of day. 41 Why is a false friend like the letter P ? Be- cause, although always first in pity, he is always last in help. What is that which occurs twice in a mo- ment and not once in a thousand years ? The letter M. Why are butchers thieves? Because they steal a knife and cut away with it. Why should a man troubled with the gout make his will ? Because he will then have his leg at ease (legatees). Why is a mirror like a very ungrateful friend ? Because, although you may load his back with silver, he will reflect on you. Wliat is the difference between some women and their looking-glasses? The former talk without reflecting, the latter reflect without talking. Which is the hardest of all soaps? Cast steel ( Castile j. On what supposition could pocket handker- chiefs build a house ? If they became brick (be cambric). Wlu" is a true and faithful friend like garden seeds? Because you never know the value of either until they are put under ground. 4» When does a man alwaj^s have brown hands? When he's tand'em driving. What is that which is seen twice in " every day" and four times in "every week," yet only once in a year ? The vowel e. Which are the only two words in the English language where the five vowels follow in suc- cessive order ? Facetious and abstemious. What w^ord is there of eight letters which has five of them the same ? Oroonoko. What words ma}^ be pronounced quicker and shorter by adding another syllable to them? Quick and short. What word composed of five letters can you take the first two letters from and have one remain ? Stone. Which word in the English language con- tains the greatest number of letters ? Dispro- portion ableness . What relation is a child to its own father when it is not its own father's son ? A daugh- ter. What is the difference between the milky way and a room full of great-grandfathers ? One is a lot of pale stars, the other a lot of stale pas. 43 What was it a blind man took at breakfast which restored his sight ? He took a cup and saw, sir (^saucer). Why are pipes all humbug ? Because the best of them are all meer-shams. Why is a meerschaum like a water-color artist ? Because it draws and colors beati fully. If you saw a dude riding on a donkey, what fruit would 3^ou be reminded of? A pair. .What is that which a cat has, but no other animal ? Kittens. What are the features of a canon ? Cannon- mouth, cannon ize, and cannon-eers. Show that twice ten is equal to twice eleven. Twice ten is twenty, and twice eleven is twenty-two (twent\', too). What word of six letters contains six words besides itself, without transposing a letter? Herein — he, her, here, ere, rein, in. When is a teapot like a kitten ? When 3^ou're teasin' it (tea's in it). Wh}^ is a portrait like a member of Con- gress ? Because it is a representative. Why is a madman like two men ? Because he is a man beside liimself. 44 Who was the first whistler, and what tuna did he whistle? The wind — "Over the Hilis and Far Away." Why is an unbound book like a person in bed ? Because it is in sheets. Why is a drawn tooth like a thing that is forgotten ? Because it is out of the head. What is the difference between a glass of water and a glass of whiskey ? Ten cents. Why is a paper like a beggar ? Because it is composed of rags. Why is a good cabbage the most amiable of vegetables? Because it is all heart. Why is an intoxicated man like a noun ad- jective ? Because he seldom stands alone. Why is a clergyman's horse like a king? Because he is guided by a minister. Why is a man in a garret committing mur- der like a good man ? Because he is above committing a bad action. Why was the Parliament of the Common- wealth like Samson ? Because it overthrew a house of lords. Why is an avaricious man like one with a ^hort memory ? He is always for getting. What is that which lives in winter, dies in summer, and grows with its root upward ? An icicle. Why is a blacksmith's apron Hke a convent ? Because it keeps off the sparks. Why is a lady when embraced like a pocket- book ? Because she is clasped. Wh}^ is a wick of a candle Hke Athens ? Because it is in Greece (grease J. Why is a fender hke Westminister Abbe}' ? Because it contains the ashes of the grate (great> Wh}' is a handsome woman like bread ? Because she is often toasted. What is that which a coach cannot move without, and yet is not of the least use to it ? Noise. What does a stone become when in the water? A whetstone (wet stone). When is a very angry man like a clock fift}-- nine minutes past twelve? When he is just going to strike one. If 3'ou were obliged to swallow a man. what kind of a one would you prefer to swallow ? A little Dublin porter. 46 What question is Ihat to which 3'ou must alwaj'S answer " yes " ? What does y-e s spell ? What four letters of the alphabet would frighten a thief? O I C U (oh ! I see you). Why must a magistrate be cold and chilly ? Because he is just ice (justice). What is the difference between a new five- cent piece and an old fashioned quarter ? Twenty cents. Why does a man go into the law, remain in the law, and go out of the law ? He goes into the law to get on, he remains in the law to get oner, he retires from the law to get onest. What is the cheapest way to buy a fiddle ? Buy a little medicine and get a vial in ? Speak only two letters and thus name the destiny of all earthly things ? D. K. Why was Robinson Crusoe not alone on the desert island? Because there was a heavy swell on the beach and a sand}- cove runnmg up the shore. Why is a buckwheat-cake like a caterpillar ? Because it makes the butter-fly. What is that which has neither flesh nor bone, yet has four fingers and a thumb? A glove. 47 Barnum drove a ten-iii-haiid through New York city, and his horses had only twenty-four feet among them ; how was that ? They had twenty fore feet. What trade does the sun follow in the month of May ^ Mason (May sun). Of what trade are all the Presidents of the United States ? Cabinet-makers. Of what trade is a minister at a wedding ? A joiner. Of what occupation is a manager of a theatre ? A stage-driver. What miss is that whose compan}- no one ever wants ? Mis-fortune. What misses are those whose da^-s are always unlucky ? Mis-chance and mis-hap. What miss is ahvays making blunders ? Mis- take. What misses are of a ver\' jealous temper? Mis-give and mis-trust. When is it no misfortune for a young lady to lose her good name ? When a 3-oung man gives her a better one. When does a dentist do the most work ? When he extracts several acres cachers). 4S \Vliy is an umbrella a paradox ? Because it IS best when used up. What happens when a light falls into the water at an angle of fort\-five degrees? It goes out. What great surgical operation does the manu- facturing of maple-sugar remind you of? Tree panning. In what way do women ruin their husbands ? In buy-wa3's. Why has the shoemaker wonderful powers of endurance ? Because he holds on to the last. What part of the face resembles a school- master? The eyelid, because it always has a pupil under the lash. Why is it that you and I must never dine together? Because U can never come until after I. What profession is a postman ? He is a man of letters. At what time of life may a man be said to belong to the vegetable kingdom ? When long experience has made him sage. Which is the gayest letter in the alphabet ? U, because it is always in fun. 49 Which are the lightest men, Scotch, Irish, or Englishmen ? Englishmen. In Scotland there are men of Ayr ; in Ireland men of Cork, but in England are lightermen. When is a boat like a heap of snow ? When it is adrift. What 'bus has found room for the greatest number of people ? Columbus. Which is heavier, a half or a full moon ? The half, because the full moon is as light again. What tree is of the greatest importance in history ? The date. When is a man like a frozen rain ? When he is hail (hale). When is a lad3^'s arm not a lady's arm? When it is a little bare (bear). Why is a short negro like a white man ? Because he is not a tall black. Why is a ver>^ discontented man easily sati^ fied ? Because nothing satisfies him. Why are ripe • potatoes in the ground like thieves ? Because they ought to be taken up. Wh}^ is the north pole like an illicit whisky manufactorv ? Because it is a secret stiU. 50 Why are bells the most obedient of inani- mate things ? Because they make a noise whenever they are told. Why is it unjust to blame coachmen for cheating us ? Because we call them to take us in. What is the difference between a cat and a comma ? A cat has its claws at the end of its paws, a comma its pause at the end of a clause. Why are the makers of the Armstrong guns the greatest thieves in her Majesty's service ? Because they rifle all the guns, forge the materials, and steel all the gun breeches. How may book-keeping be taught in a lesson of three words ? Never lend them. Why is a blush an anomaly? Because a woman who blushes is admitted for her cheek. Why are Whigs and wigs alike? Because they both profess an attachment to the crown. What trade is like the sun ? A tanner's. What is an extra dry subject ? A mummy. What is a counter-irritant ? A fashionable woman shopping. Why are hogs like trees ? Because they root for a living. 5t Why is the moon Hke a marriage contract ? Because it governs the tide. Why do girls kiss each other and men not ? Because girls have nothing better to kiss, and men have. What did the muffin say to the toasting-fork ? You're too pointed. What composer is most noted of modern times ? Chloroform. What is better than to give credit to whom it is due ? Give the cash. Which musical instrument is the most moral ? An upright piano. What is the difference between a dog's tail and a rich man ? One keeps a wagging and the other keeps a carriage. How did Kenr\^ the Eighth differ as a suiter from other men? He married his wives and axed them afterward. Why does a man's hair generally turn gray sooner than his mustache? Because it is about twenty-one years older. When did George Washington first take a carriage ? When he took a hack at the cherry- tree. 52 What is the political character of a water- wheel ? Revolutionary. Why is a vsolar eclipse like a mother beat- ing her boy ? Because it is a hiding of the son. How can a man make his mone}' go a long way ? By contributing to foreign missions. Why is a person reading these conundrums like a man condemned to undergo a militar}^ execution ? Because he is pretty sure to be riddled to death. Where can one always find pleasure and hap- piness ? In the dictionar3^ During the month of heavy showers, how has the umbrella been persistently bluffing the game ? It has been ' ' put up or shut up ' ' with it all the while. When does a man impose on himself? When he taxes his memory. Wh}^ is a young man visiting his sweetheart like the growth of a successful newspaper? His visits commenced on a weekly, grew to be tri- weekly, and then become daily, with a Sunday supplement. 53 When is iiione}' damp ? When It is due in the morning and missed at night. What killed Julius Caesar ? Roman punches. How does the postage-stamp have the ad- vantage of the small boy ? It can never be licked but once. Why were the brokers in the panic of 1873 like Pharaoh's daughter? They saved a little prophet from the rushes on the banks. Why is an alligator the most deceitful of animals? Because he takes you in with an open countenance. Why are chemists and alchemists both of the feminine gender? Because one is an ana- lyzer (Ann Eliza), the other a charlatan (Char- lotte Ann). How do we know that Noah had a pig in the Ark? Because he had Ham. My first is used in driving, my second is needy, my third isanickname, and my whole is a bird? Whip-poor-will. Why is sympathy like blind man's buff? Because it is a fellow feeling for a fellow mor- tal. 54 Why does the air seem fresher in winter than /t docs in summer? Because it's kept on ice most of the time. Why i:re fish well educated ? They have a taste foi going in schools. What is the difference between one yard and two 3'ards > A fence. Wliy is ihe letter S like thunder ? It makes our cream sour cream. Which is tlie easier way to commit suicide, by taking laudanum or drowning? Ether (either) is good . Why is Buckingham Palace the cheapest piece of property in England? Because it was bought for a crown and kept up by a sovereign. What is the difference between a light in a cave and a dance in an inn ? One is a taper in a cavern, the other a caper in a tavern. Why are records brittle things ? Because they cannot be lowered without breaking. What is the difference between forms and ceremonies ? You sit upon one and stand on the other. Why is a door in the r>otential mood ? It's would (wood) or should be 55 What is the difference between a man going up stairs and one looking up ? One is stepping up the stairs, the other staring up the steps. Whv are birds melancholy in the morning? Because their little bills are all over due. What is there remarkable about a yard-stick ? Though it has no head or tail, it has a foot at each end and one in the middle. If a man shot at two frogs and killed one, what would the other one do ? Croak. What makes the waves so wild?- It is hav- ing the wind blow them up. Why are apples like printer's types? Be- cause they are often in pi(e). My first denotes equality, my second, in- feriority, and my whole supepority. Match- less. Why are fatigued persons like a wagon wheel? Because they are always tired. Whv is a tin can tied to a dog's tail like death? Because it's bound to a cur (occur\ Why is a widow like a gardener ? Because she tries to get rid of her weeds. Why are young ladies bad grammarians? Because so few can decline matrimony. 5^ Why are potatoes and corn like certain sin- ners ol' old? Because, having eyes, they see not, and having ears they hear not. Why are bhud persons compassionate ? Be- cause they feel for other persons. Why are cowardly soldiers like tallow can- dles ? Because when exposed to the fire they run. Why is Satan always a gentleman ? Be- cause, being the imp of darkness he can never be imp-o' -light. How much earth is in a hole 3^x6^-3 ft.? None. Why is a pretty girl like a locomotive ? Be- cause she sends off the sparks, transports the mails, and has a train following her. What is the cheapest feature of the face? Nostrils, two for a scent (cent). Why are stout gentlemen prone to melan- choh^ ? Because they are men of size (sighs). When does the rain become too familiar to a lady ? When it begins to pat-her (patter) on the back. What relation is a door mat to a door step ? A step farther. 57 ■ Why is a baker like some ver}' disreputable people ? Because he's a loafer and a white-cap. How man}- of your relatives live on }'our property ? Ten- aunts (tenants). What is the difference between a dime dated 1899 and a new dollar ? Ninety cents. Wh}' is a beehive like a spectator ? ])ecause it is a beeholder (beholder). What are the most unsociable things in the world ? Mile-stones, for you never see two of them together. When does a regiment undergo an operation ? \\'hen deprived of its arms. What is the greatest eyesore in a farm yard ? A pig-sty. AVliat is the difference between the manner of the death of a barber and a sculptor ? One curls up and dies and the other makes faces and busts. Why may carpenters reasonably believe there is no such thing as stone ? Because they never saw it. What is majest}^ deprived of its externals? (M) a jest (Y). 58 Wh}^ is a good speller of a spelling match like a glass of champagne ? Because they both go to the head. When does a lady think her husband a Her- cules? When fond of his club. Why is it that a fisherman cannot tell his gross profits ? Because they are always net. What will make pies inquisitive ? S will make spies of them. Why is an empty purse expressive of con- stancy ? Because 3^ou find no change in it. When can donkey be spelt with one letter ? When it's "U." Why is a tennis player like a society youth of limited means ? He is obliged to miss the ball when it comes high. Why is an Irishman trying to kiss a pretty girl like a man going up Mt. Vesuvius? Be- cause he is trying to get at the mouth of the crater. Why should a luusekeeper never put the letter M into her refrigerator ! Because it will change ice into mice. What's the difference between vShakespeare and Queen Elizabeth ? He was a wonder, and she was a Tudor. 59 Why is the letter R indispensable to friend- ship ?• Because without it your friends would be fiends. Which are the two most disagreeable letters if you get too much of them ? K N (cayenne : What is the difference between a funny fel- low and a butcher? One deals out wit, the other wit-ties. Wh}' should cocks l)c the smoothest birds known? Because they always have a comb about them. What insect does a blacksmith manufacture ? He makes the fire-fly. \\'hen is a nose not a nose ? When it is a little radish (reddishX A\'heii are soldiers best able to draw blisters ? When they are mustered in the service. Why is love like a potato ? Because it shoots from the eyes and gets less by pairing. ^X'hy are young men like telescopes ? Be- cause you can draw them out, see through them and shut them up again. Why are cats like unskillful surgeons ? Be- cause they mew^-till-late, and destroy patients (patience). 66 What is the difference between a woman and a parasol ? You can shut a parasol up. Why is Sunday the strono^est day in the week ? Because the rest are week days. Why is a needle one of the most persistent of forces? It always has an eye open for busi- ness, and invariably carries its point. When is coffee like the soil ? When it is ground. Why are soldier's guns always safe? Be- cause every one of them has a lock. When is a man not a man? When he's a shaving. Why is a man who is fond oi his cigars like a tallow candle ? Because he will smoke when he is going out. When is a schoolmaster like a man with one eye? When he has a vacancy for a pupil. Why is it dangerous to take a nap in a train ? Because the cars invariably run o^'er sleepers. What instrument of war does an angry lover resemble ? A cross bow My first is a vehicle, my second is a preposi- tion, and my whole is part of a ship. Cab-in. 6t What grows bigger the more you contrac^t it ? Debt. What tricks are most common among New York pohcemen ? Patricks. Why is Asia Hke a market in Thanksgiving or Christmas week ? There is always a Tur- key in it. Wh}' will an insolent fishmonger get more business than a civil one ? Because when he sells fish, he gives sauce with it. Why does a fat man, when squeezed compli- ment the ladies ? Because the pressure makes him flatter. Why is an old man like a window ? He is full of pains (panes). What's the difference between photograph- ing and the whooping cough ? One makes fnc similes, the other makes sick families. What is smaller than a mite's mouth ? That which goes into a mite's mouth. What is it that is a cat and not a cat, and yet is a cat ? A kitten. Wh}' was the dumb waiter returned ? Be- cause it didn't answer. 62 Bom at the same time as the world, destined to live as long as the world, and 3'et never five weeks old. The moon. Why are clouds like coachmen ? Because the)' hold the rains ^ reins). My first is a game, my second is what we use our e^es for, my whole is a State of America. Tennes see. Wh}' should a favorite hen be called Mac- duff? Because we wish her to lay on. Why is the letter G like the sun? It is the centre of light. Why are pretty girls like fire-works. Be- cause they soon go off. Why is coal the most contradictory article known to commerce ? Because when pur- chased, instead of going to the buyer it goes to the cel-lar. Wh}' would it be hard on ministers to preach without notes? Because their families would suffer without the greenbacks. In what sort of syllables should a parrot be taught to speak ? In poUy silly-bills. My first is a pronoun, my second is used at weddings, and my whole is an inhabitant of the deep. Her ring. 63 What is the difference between a bee-hive and a bad potato ? Xone. One is a bee-holder ; a bee-holder is a speck' d 'tatur, and a speck' d 'tatur is a bad potato. What cannot be called a disinterested act of hospitality ? Entertaining a hope. Why is a school-boy being flogged, like your eye? Because he's a pupil under the lash. When may an ocean liner be said to be fool- ishly in love ? When attached to a boy (buoy.) My first is formal, my second is a flower, and ni}^ whole is a flower. Prim-rose. Why is a woman's beauty like a bank note? Because when once changed it soon goes. What is the difference between a tube and a foolish Dutchman ? One is a hollow cylinder and the other a silly Hollander. What fruit is the most visionary ? The apple of the eye. What is that which goes from Boston to Providence without once moving? The rail- road. What notes compose the most favorite tunes, and how many tunes do they compose ? Bank iiot'^s, thev make (four) fortunes. 64 Why are ladies' eyes like persons remote from one another? Because, although they may correspond, they never meet. Why don't Sweden have to send abroad for cattle? Because she keeps her Stock-holm. Without my first my second could never have existed, and my whole is as old as creation. Sun-day. When is a gun like a dismissed servant? When it is discharged and goes off. What is everything doing at the same time? Growing older. What should you do if 3^ou split 3'our sides with laughter? Run till I got a stitch in them. What is the difference between a young girl and an old hat? Merely a difference of time — one has feeling and the other has felt. What herb is most injurious to a lady's beauty? Thyme. Why is an aristocratic seminary for young ladies like a flower garden ? Because it :s a place of haughty culture (horticulture). What is the difference between a clock and a partnership? When a clock is wound up it goes ; when a firm is wound up it stops. Hgw do you know when night is nigh? When the t (tea) is taken away. Why are some women like facts? Because they are stubborn things. If a dog should lose his tail where would he get another? At Wanamaker's, where every- thing is retailed. Why is a person with his eyes closed like a defective schoolmaster ? He keeps his pupils in darkness. Why is early grass like a penknife ? Because 2he springs bring out the blades. Why is an old man's farm in Texas like the focus of a sun glass? It's a place where the sons raise meat (sun's rays meet). Why is a real estate man not a man of words? Because he is a man of deeds. Why is the isthmus of Suez like the first u in cucumber? Because it's between two seas. What did Ruth do to offend Boaz ? She pulled his ears and trod on his corn. Why are some singers like cheese curds ? Because they require to be pressed. Why ought meat to be only half cooked? Because what's done cannot be helped. 66 Why is a woman like the telegraph ? Be' cause she is always in advance of the mail intelligence. What article that we wear is most affection- ate? A porous plaster, because it becomes v^ery much attached to us. Why is a pawnbroker like a drunkard ? Be- cause he takes the pledge but cannot always keep it. Who does the Bible say may carr}' on a flir- tation ? It says widow's mite (might). Wh}^ are respectable hotels like the elysium of the gods ? Because no bad spirits are per- mitted to enter them. Why is grass like a mouse ? Because the cat'll eat it (cattle eat it). Why are convicts like old maids going to be married? Because they go off in transports. How do we know the fair queen of day has a lover ? She is always followed by a night (knight). Why are the Irish poor like a carpet ? Be- cause they are kept down by tax (tacks). Why is the world like a slate ? Because the children of men do multiply thereon. 67 Why is a deleaLfcd army like wool ? Because its worsted. What is the centre of gravity ;■' The letter V. What three letters turn a girl into a woman .'' A-g-e, Although great wealth is said to harden the heart, what is e\ cr\- millionaire sure to be ? A capital fellow. What belongs to yourself, and is used by your friends more than by yourself? Your name. When is a soldier like an old toper ? When he re- treats. Why is a policeman like a rainbow ? Because he rarely appears until the storm is over. What is the difference between a milkmaid and a swallow? The milkmaid skims the milk, the swallow skims the water. Why is a man's face shaved in January like a celebrated fur? Because it's a chin-chilly. What is that which was born without a soul, lived and got a soul, but died without a soul? The whale that swallowed Jonah. What is the difference between a Roman Catholic priest and a Baptist ? One uses wax candles — the other dip*:- 68 When is a doctor most aiiuoyed? When h* is out of patients. Why is a poor acquaintance better than a rich one ? A friend in need is a friend indeed. What is there remarkable about a ])ee? Why, ordinarily it has but little to say, >'et generally carries its point. Wh}^ is the first chicken of a brood like the mainmast of a ship? Because it's a little ahead of the main hatch. How many persons can a deaf and dumb man tickle? He can ges-tickle-eight (gesticulate), What is the easiest way to keep water out oi" the house ? Omit to pay your water tax. What is it that is queer about flowers ? They shoot before they have pistils. What is the best form for a soldier? Uni- form. What is the best uniform for a soldier? Right dress. When does a dog become larger and smaller? When let out at night, and taken in in the morning. What prescription is best for a poet? A composing draught. 69 Why does a bay horse never pay toll ? Be- cause his master pays it for him. Why is the letter S like a pert repartee ? Be- cause it begins and ends in sauciness. What is the best way to keep a man's love? Not to return it. When is a soldier a wagon maker ? When he makes a wheel. Why is beef suitable for a Christmas dinner? Meet for rejoicing. How was Admiral Dewey's naval rank re- duced when he got married ? He became Mrs. Dewey's second mate. Why is a little dog's tail like the heart of a tree ? Because it's farthest from the bark. Why are actresses like pipes ? They are mere-shams. What workman never turns to the lett ? A wheehvright. Why does a freight car need no locomotive ? The freight makes the car-go. When are weeds not weeds ? When they be- come widows. What is better than presence of mind in a railroad accident ? Absence of body. 70 Wh}^ is a balloonist greatly to be envied ? Because he rises rapidly in the world and has excellent prospects. What letter in the alphabet is most useful to a deaf old woman ? The letter A, because it makes her hear. What is the color of a grass plot covered with snow? Invisible green. How does water get into the watermelon ? The seed is planted in the spring. Why is a man in front of a crowd well sup- ported ? Because he hns the press at his back. Wliat subject can be made light of? Gas. If Dick's father be John's son, what relation is Dick to John? His grandson. When is a silver cup most likely to run ? When it's chased. When may a man's pocket be empt}" and yet have something in it ? When it has a hole in it. Why is an engraver fearless of drowning ? Because he is accustomed to die sinking. Why are quinine and gentian like the Ger- mans ? Because they are two tonics (teutonics). 71 Why should the proof-reader of a printing establishment be considered the best read man going? Because there's proof that he reads every hour of the day. When is butter like In.sh children ? When it is made into little pats. If all the money in the world was divided equally among the people what would each one get ? An equal share. What are the most difficult ships to conquer? Hard- ships. Why don't foreign noblemen marry poor American girls as well as rich ones ? A poor girl has no principal, hence no interest, and with- out either she cannot bank account (a count). Why does a dressmaker never lose her hooks'? Because she has an eye to each of them. Why is a wedding ring like eternity i* Be- cause it has neither beginning nor end ? What did the blind man say to the police- man when he told him he would arrest him if he did not move on? I'd just like to see you. What is the difference between a drinker and a smoker? One is a Bacchanahan and the other a tobacconalian. 72 When Homer called the sea barren, why did it illustrate the age in which he lived? Be- cause it was before Cecrops (sea crops). What is the difference between a cow and an old chair? One gives milk, the other gives wa}^ (whey). Wh}- should Pope Leo XIII be a ver}- un- lucky man? Because he is always the thir- teenth at table. What is the difference l)etween a life of leis- ure and a life of idleness ? They are the same thing, only different titles. What word of one syllable, if you take two letters from it, becomes a word of two s}'l- lables? Plague; ague. A crown which was the pride of ancient Rome : whichever wav it is read, it is the same. Civic. \\' hat lesson of life can the small boy learn from the fire engine? It must work or it can't play. Why is a young lady like a sheaf of w^heat? First she is cradled, then thrashed, and finally she becomes the flour of the family. W'ho is it that always has a number of move- ments on foot for making money ? A dancing master. 73 In what respect does a piano lamp resemble a society-club man? it has a good deal of brass about it, requires much attention, is not remarkably brilliant, is sometimes unsteady upon its legs, liable to explode when only half full, flares up occasionally, it is always out at bed-time, and is bound to smoke. How can hunters find their game in the woods? By listening to the bark of the trees. Why does a man think of his mother's .slip- pers when he handles the lines behind a fine, well-matched pair of horses? Because they are such a spanking pair. What is that which is sometimes with a head, without a head, with a tail, and without a tail ? A wng. Why is a committee of inquir}- like a can- non? It makes a report. What is more wonderful than a horse that can count? A spelling bee. Why are tallest people the laziest^ Because they are always longer in bed than others. Who was the most successful financier men- tioned in the Bible? Noah, because he floated a limited company when all the rest of the world was in liquidation. 74 What is the difference between the Prince of Wales and the water in a fountain? One is heir to the throne, the other thrown to the air. Why is a college student like a thermometer? Because he is graduated and marked by de- grees. What bird is low-spirited? The blue-bird. Why don't they take fare from policemen on the trolley cars? Because they can't get a nickel out of a copper. Why is a tournament like sleep? It is a (k)nightly occupation. Why is a schoolmaster like the letter C? He forms lasses into classes. Why don't the Boers wash themselves? Because they are waiting to get a good licking from the English. Why is bread like the sun ? Because it rises from the 3-east. When is a chair like a lady's dress ? When its satin. When is a soldier like a watch ? When he is on guard. When is a soldier like a king ? When he appears with his pomp-on. 75 What object is walking over the water and under the water, j-etdoes not touch the water ? A woman crossing a bridge over a river with a pail of water on her head. Why is love like a canal boat ? Because it is an internal transport. When does a chair dislike }ou ? When it can't bear you. Why is a duel quickly managed? Because it takes onh' two seconds to arrange it. What burns to keep a secret ? Sealing-wax. Why is a nobleman like a book ? Because he has a title. What class of women are most apt to give tone to society ? The belles. What is that which has a mouth but never speaks, and a bed but never lies in it ? A river. Wh}' is a defeated arm>- like wool ? Because it is worsted. What is the difference between the wreck of a bank and the wreck of a ship ? One is caused by the presence of rocks, the other by the scarcity of rocks. 76 What is that which we all can eat, and often • drink, though it sometimes is a woman and often a man ? We eat toast and drink a toast. Why would a compliment from a chicken be an insult ? Because it would be foul language. Why is a cherry like a book ? Because it is red (read). Why are heavy showers like heavy drinkers ? Because they usually begin with little drops. What is that by losing an eye has nothing left but a nose ? A noise. Why is a four-quart jar like a lady's side- saddle ? Because it holds a gal-on (gallon ). Wh}' is fashionable societ>- like a warming- pan ? Because it is highly polished but very hollow. Why are l)alloons in the air like vagrants? Because they have no visible means of support. \\'hat islands would form a dainty and cheer- ful luncheon for a party ? Sandwich and Madeira. What must a good surgeon have to be suc- cessful ? He must have an eagle's eye, a lion's heart, and a lady's hand. 77 Why is rheum ilism like a great eater ? Be- cause it attacks the joints. If I were in the sun and you were out of it what would the sun become I Sin. Why would an owl be offended at your call- ing him a pheasant ? Because you would be making game of him. Why is anthracite coal like true love ? Be- cause it burns with a steady flame. Why is a very amusing man like a bad shot ? Because he keeps the game alive. When people are quarreling out of doors, what should they do? Co-in-side (go inside). Why is Berlin the most dissipated city in Europe ? Because it is always on the Spree. Which is the favorite word with women ? The last one. Why is Father Time like a fashionable young man ? Because he travels by cycles (bicycles). Luke had it first, Paul had it last ; boys never have it ; girls have it but once ; Miss Sullivan had it twice in the same place, but when she married Pat Murphy she never had it again ? The letter L. Why are ladies the biggest thieves in exist- ence ? Because they steel their petticoats, bone their stays, crib their babies, and hook their dresses. Why is a man who makes additions to a false rumor like one who has confidence in all that is told to him ? Because he re-lies on all he hears. When does a farmer double up a .sheep with- out hurting it ? When he folds it. What did the managing editor sa}- when the horticultural editor said he had cultivated hot- house lilac bushes that attained a height of over fifty feet? I wish I could lilac (lie like) that. Wh}^ is an apothecary like a wood-cock? Becau.se he has a long bill. What is the most engaging work of art ? A fashionable young lad^^ Who is the oldest lunatic on record ? Time out of mind. Wh}^ do the recriminations of a married couple resemble the sound of the waves on the seashore ? Because they are the murmurs of the tide (tied). 79 What bird is rude ]^ The mocking bird. Why is a lawn mower Uke the keeper of a bucket shop ? Because it shaves the green. When may a loaf of bread be said to be in- habited ? When it has a little Indian in it. Why are ships like fortunes ? Because they are built on stocks. How does a soldier know when it is time to fight ? When he sees a battle-me(a)nt. At what age should a man iiiarr}- ? At the parsonage. What kind of essence does a young man like when he pops the question ? Acquiescence. When is a soldier like a horse ? When he draws a load. Why is it nonsense to pretend that love is blind ? Because 3'ou never knew a man in love that did not see ten, times more in his sweet- heart than others did. Wh}^ are fixed stars like wicked old men? Because they scintillate (sin till-late). Why is an egg underdone like aii egg over- done ? They are both hardly done. 8o Why is a man happier with two wives than with one? He may be happ}' with one, but with two he is nearly sure to be transported. Why is Gibraltar one of the most wonderful places in the world ? Because it's always on the rock, but never nunvs. Why is it difficult to flirt on mail steamers? Because all the mails (males) are tied u[) in bags. Why is a comprehensive action an affection- ate one ? It embraces everything. What best describes and most impedes a Christian Pilgrim's Progress? A Bunyan (bunion). When is a lady's hair like the latest news? When it's in the papers. Why is a very old umbrella, that has been lost, as good as new when found ? Because it's re-covered. Why is a coachman like the clouds ? Be- cause he holds the reins. Why does the Salvation Army walk down Broadway on their heels ? To save their soles (souls). 8i Who was the most successful surve>'or on record ? Alexander Selkirk, for he was mon- arch of all he surveyed. Who is a man of grit ? A sugar refiner. \\ln' is the letter W like scandal ? Because it makes ill will. What is one of the rules of war ? That it is death to stop a cannon ball. Why are photographers the most uncivil of all tradespeople? Because when we make application for a copy of our portrait, the}' always reply with a negative. What cord is that which is full of knots, which no one can untie, and which no one can tie? A cord of wood. Which is the oddest fellow, the one who asks a question or the one who answers ? The one who asks, because he is the querist. When does the wind most resemble a book- seller? When it keeps stationary (stationery). What benefit can be derived from a paper of pins ? It will give you many good points. " Why are authors who treat of physiognomy like soldiers ? Because they write about face. 82 I went into the woods and caught it, I sat down to look for it, and then I went home with it because I could not find it. A sliver. Why is a clock the most persevering thing in creation ? Because it is never more inclined to go on with its business than when it is com- pletely wound up. Why is a blind man apt to be an idiot? The old adage says, out of sight out of mind. How did the whale that swallowed Jonah obey the divine law ? Jonah was a stranger and he took him in. When is a piece of wood like a queen ? When it is made into a ruler. Why is chicken pie like a gunsmith's shop? Because it contains fowl- in pieces. Wh}^ is asparagus like most sermons? Be- cause it is the end of it that people enjoy most. What is the fruit of finance? Current coin. How did Jonah feel when swallowed by a whale ? He was down in the mouth, and went to blubber. Why is the polka like bitter beer? There are so many hops in it. 83 Why is your nose in tlie middle of your face ? Eecause it is the scenter. Why is a steam engine at a fire an anomaly ? Because it works and plays at the same time. Whose best works are most trampled on ? The shoemaker, because good shoes last longer than bad ones. When is a boy in a pantry like a poacher? When he walks into the preserves. Why are clergymen like brakemen? Be- cause they do a great deal of coupling. When may two people be said to be half itted? Wh between them. witted? When they have an understanding Why is a jailer like a musician ? Because he fingers the keys. Why is a field of grass like a person older than yourself? Because it's past-your-age (pasturage). Why is it absurd to call a dentist room the dental parlor? Because it is the drawing room. Why should a man never tell his secrets in a cornfield?' Because so many ears are there, and they would be shocked. 84 What part of a fish weighs most? The scales. When is a soldier like a vehicle ? When he makes a cart-ridge on the road. Why are printers liable to bad colds ? Be- cause they always use damp sheets. What fruit does a newly married couple resemble ? A green pear (pair). Can you tell the best, way to make the hours go fast ? Use the spur of the moment. Why is wit like a Chinese lady's foot ? Be- cause brevity's the vSole of it. Why are parliamentary reports called " Blue Books ? " Because they are never re(a)d. Why is it absurd to ask a prett}^ girl to be candid ? Because she cannot be plain. Why is a sheep like a professional gambler ? Because he is brought up on the turf, gambols in his 3'outh, herds witli blacklegs, and is fleeced at last. Why is a well-trained horse like a benevolent man ? Because he stops at the sound of wo. What city is drawn more frequently than any other ? Cork. 85 Why is a bookbinder like charity ? Because he often covers a multitude of faults. Why should an artist never be short of cash ? If he knows his business he can always draw money. What do we often catch yet never see? Passing remarks. Why are confectioners mercenary lovers? Because they always sell their kisses. What is there about a house that seldom falls, but never hurts the occupant when it does? The rent. What three acts comprise the chief business of a woman's Hfe? Attract, contract, and detract. Why is a prudent man like a pin ? Because his head prevents him from going too far. Why are some of our officers like a dancing master's toes? Because they must be turned out. What are the most patient objects in the shape of humanity ? Statues. Why is necessity like an angry solicitor? It knows uo law. 86 If all the letters in the alphabet were on a mountain, what letter would leave first ? D would begin the descent. When you listen to a drum why are you a good j adge ? Because }0U hear both sides. Why is the vowel O the only one sounded ? Because all the others are in audible. Wliy is a coward like a leaky barrel ? Be- cause they both run. If a short man married a widow what will his friends call him ? A widow's mite. Who dares sit before the Queen with his hat on ? Her coachman. Why was "Uncle Tom's Cabin " not written by a woman's hand ? Because it was written by Mrs. Beecher Stowe (Beecher's toe). What animal is that from which, if you take off the tip of its tailvou mav make a first-rate Jew:* Rabbit (Rabbi). Why is a lame dog like a school boy adding six and seven together ? Because the dog puts down three and carries one. When is a house like a bird ? When it has wings. 87 What moral lesson does the weather cock teach ? It is vane to a-spire. When is a lawyer like a beast of burden ? When drawing a conveyance. When is a soldier like a watch ? W^hen he is on guard. What are the embers of the expiring year ? Nov-ember and Dec-ember. How is a poultry dealer compelled to earn his living ? By foul means. When was beef tea first introduced into England? When Henry Vlll dissolved the Pope's bull. Why is a butcher's cart like his top boots? Because he carries his calves there. Why does a maltese cat rest better in sum- mer than in winter ? Because summer brings a caterpillar (cat-a-pillow). Is there anything a man with a kodak can- not take ? Yes. a hint. Why do American soldiers never run away ? They belong to a standing army. Why does tying a slow horse to a post im- prove his pace ? It makes him fast. 88 What IS it that a man, no matter how smart he is, overlooks? His own nose. What goes most against a farmer's grain? His reaper. Why may we suppose that Noah had beer in the ark? Because the kangaroo went in with hops, and the bear was always bruin. Why should potatoes grow l)etter than other vegetables? Because they have e3"es to see what they are doing. A duck before two ducks, a duck behind two ducks, and a duck between two duoks ; how many ducks were there in all ? Three. What word of ten letters can be spelled with five ? X-p-d-n-c (expediency). Why should the highest apple on a tree be the best one ? Because it is a tip-top apple. How many fathers has a man ? Nine : his father, his godfather, his father-in law, his two grandfathers, and his fore- (four) fathers. Why would a spider appear to have wings ? Because it often takes a flv. Why is a railroad exceedingly patriotic? is ties. It is bound to the country with the strongest 89 What is the most wonderful acrobatic feat? For a man to revolve in his own mind. Why is chloroform like Mendelssohn ? Be- cause it is the greatest of modern composers. Do women like to see themselves in print? No ; they prefer silk or satin. Why are bookkeepers like chickens? Be- cause they have to scratch for a living. Who is the man who invariably finds things dull ? The scissors grinder. Why is the first chicken of a brood like the mainmast of a ship? Because it's a little ahead of the main hatch. Why is a book your best friend a-nd com- panion? Because wdi en it bores 3'ou, }'ou can shut it up without giving offense. Why is a man in front of a crowd well sup- ported ? Because he has the press at his back. What sort of men are most above board in their movements? Chessmen. Wh}' is playing chess a better occupation than playing cards ? Because you play chess with two bishops and cards with four knaves. 90 When may ladies who are enjoying them- selves be said to look wretched ? When at the opera, as then they are in tiers. Why should a minister be believed ? Because he is nearly always accurate (a curate). Why is a mad bull like a man of convivial disposition ? Because he offers a horn to ever5''body he meets. What should be looked into ? A mirror. Why is the map of Turkey in Europe like a frying pan ? Because it has Greece on the bottom. I partake alike in your joys, and your sor- rows, and your home would not be home without me. Letter O. How many young ladies does it take to reach from New York to Philadelphia? About one hundred, because a miss is as good as a mile. Why should colts avoid exposure ? Because they might take cold and become a little horse (hoarse). In what respect is matrimony a game of cards ? Why, a woman has a heart, a man takes it with a diamond, and after that her hand is his. 91 When is a new dress older than an old one ? When it's more moire) antique. What is the name of the plant most fatal to mice ? Cat-nip. Why is a poor singer like a counterfeiter ? Because he is an utterer of bad notes. I am the first, and one of seven, I live betwixt the seas and heaven; Look not below, for I am not there, I\Iy home is in the ancient air. Come to my second, behold how fair I am, how bright and how debonair; A pleasant vision and a beauty, A thing of life and joy and duty; M}^ youth is changed — I live alone, My views are crossed— my hopes are gone; My whole is sorrow, grief and woe, M}" singing now is all heigh-ho. A lass 'alas). What affection do landlords most appreci- ate i* Parental (pay-rental). When day breaks, what becomes of the pieces ? Thej- go into mourning (morning\ Why are washerwomen the silliest of women ? Because they put out their tubs to catch soft water when it rains hard. 92 Whj^ is a book like a king ? Because it has many pages. When are two apples alike ? When pared. When a colored waiter drops a platter of roast turkey, wh}^ does it create a great con- tinental disaster? Because it is the fall of Turkey, the overthrow of Greece, the ruin of Africa, and the breaking up of China. What time should an iini keeper visit a foundry ? When he wants a bar-maid. Why was Blackstone like an Irish vege- table ? Because he was a common 'tatur (com- mentator). Why is an author the most wonderful man in the world ? Because he is the owner of many tales and they all come out of his head. What do 3'ou call a boy who eats all the melons he can get, whether they are green or old ? He is what we call a pains-taking youngster. What is an eaves-dropper ? The icicle. What trade is certainly one in which a man will never make a cent except by sticking at it ? Bill-posting. 93 Why is a neglected damsel like a fire that has gone out ? Because she has not a spark left. In what place are two heads better than one ? In a barrel. Why are bells used to call people to church ? Because they have an inspire-ring influence. What is that which goes up the hill and down the hill and yet stands still ? The road. What becomes of the chocolate cake when your only son eats it? It vanishes into the empty heir (air). When is coffee like the soil ? When it is ground. When is a bill like a gun? When it is pre- sented and discharged. Why is a windy orator like a whale ? Be- cause he often rises to spout. Why is a railroad track a particularly senti- mental object? Because it is bound by close ties. What is society composed of? A mixture of mister ies and miss-eries. 94 What is that which increases the more it is shared by others ? Happiness. What is taken from you before you get it ? Your portrait. When is a man, Hke friendship, most easily tried ? When he stands a loan. What melancholy fact is there about a cal- endar? There is no time when its days are not numbered. What is the best food for dyspeptic people ? Oysters ; because they die-j ust (digest) before they are eaten. Who are the men who have made their mark ? Those who can't write. Why is a distanced horse like a man in a .shady place ? Because he is out of the heat. Wh}' are park railings like a lady's corset? Because thej^ confine a deer (dear). Do you know what is the oldest piece of fur- niture in the world ? The multiplication table. What is the debt for which you cannot be sued? The debt of nature. When are soldiers best able to draw blisters ? When they are mustered in the service. 95 Why is the woodsman's ax an inconsistent weapon? Because it first cuts a tree down r.'id then cuts it up. Why is an inn-keeper like a multitude of people ? Because he is a host himself. Why is the blush of modesty like a little girl ? Because it becomes a woman. Why is a bad epigram like a useless pencil ? Because it has no point. If you see a counterfeit coin on the street why should you always pick it up ? Because you may be arrested for passing it. Why is Queen Victoria like a hat? Because they both have crowns. Why is love always represented as a child ? Because it never reaches the age of disCx-etion. What key opens the penitentiary for a dissi- pated man? Whis-key. Why is a pig with a curly continuation like the ghost of Hamlet's father? Because he could a tail unfold. Wh}- is a plowed field like feathered game? Because it's part-ridges. 9^ When is a dog most like a human being? When he is between a man and a boy. How does a boy look if you hurt him? It makes him yell Oh ! (yellow). Why didn't the last dove return to the ark? Because she had sufficient ground for remain- ing. Why is there some reason to doubt the ex- istence of the Giant's Causeway? There are so many shamrocks Csham rocks) in Ireland that this may be one of the reasons. Why are good husbands like dough ? Be- cause women need them. Wh}" is a specimen of extra fine handwriting like a dead pig? Because it is done with the pen. When does a man feel girlish .'' When he makes his maiden speech. What is the difference betw^een an honest and a dishonest laundress? One irons your linen ; the other steals it. What does a husband do who misses a train by which he promised his wife to return? Catches it when he gets home. 07 What coat is finished without buttons and put on wet ? A coat of paint. What is the greatest surgical operation on record ? Lansing, Michigan. How can you make a tall man short? Bor- row money of him. Why are fixed stars like pens, ink and paper? Because they are stationary (station- ery). Why should a person not like to gaze on the Niagara forever? Because he would always have a cataract in the eye. What bridge is warranted to support any strain ? The bridge of a fiddle. What is that, which though black itself, en- lightens the world ? Ink. Why is it dangerous to go in the woods in spring ? Because the buUrush is out, the cow- slips around, the grasses have blades, the flowers have pistils, and the little twigs are shooting. Why are laws like the ocean ^ The most trouble is caused by the breakers. Why is the Mississippi the most eloquent of rivers ? Because it has a dozen mouths. 98 Why is the fly the best one among the grocers' customers? Because, when he comes for sugar, he settles on the spot. Why does an aeronaut dislike to speak about his trips? It is generally a soar point with him. Why is a Chinaman never perplexed ? Be- cause no matter where he finds himself he always has his cue. What is the most popular paper at the sum- mer resorts ? Fly-paper. In law courts what relation are the judges, sergeants and counsellors to each other? They are brothers — brothers-in-law. Why is St. Paul like a white horse? Be- cause they both like Timothy. Why do men go out of the theatre? Be- cause some plays are so solemn that the men have to go out to smile. Why is a nail fast in the wall like an old man ? Because it is infirm. What is the difference between love and war? One breaks heads and the other breaks hearts. ^9 . What is the difference between man and butter? The oUler a man gets the weaker he gets, but the older the butter is the stronger it is. When did Caesar first visit the Irish ? When he crossed the Rhine and went back to bridge it (Bridget). What light could not possibly be seen in a dark room ? An Israe-lite. How is it that the Queen is a poor gentle- woman ? She possesses only one crown. Why is the letter B like a hot fire ? Because it makes oil boil. Why is an invalid cured by sea-bathing like a confined criminal ? Because he is sea-cured (secured). When does a public speaker steal lumber? When he takes the floor. Why is the letter A like a honeysuckle? Because a B follows it. What history is that which repeats itself? The history of nations. Your private history is repeated by your neighbors. When are two tramps like common time in music? When they are two beats to a bar. lOO It a two-wheeled wagon is a bicycle, and a three- wheeled wagon is a tricycle, what would you call a fiv^e wheeled one ? A V-hicle of course. Why is a ferry boat like a good rule ? Be- cause it works both ways. What part of London is like a lame man ? Cripplegate (cripple -gait). What robe is that which you cannot weave, you cannot buy, no one can sell, needs no washing, and lasts forever? Robe of Right- eousness. How do we know the nightingales are sports ? Because they have a high time after dark. When is water most likely to escape ? When it is only half-tide. What is always behind time? The back of a clock. What medicine is a cross dog fond of? Bark and wine (whine). What is the difference between perseverance and obstinancy ? One is a strong will and the other is a strong won't. lOI Unable to think, unable to speak, yet tells the truth to all the world ? A true balance, or pair of scales. What country does a crying baby sigh for ? More-rock-oh, or Lapland. Why is a coat worn by a weather-beaten tramp like a man with insomnia ? Because it has not had a nap in ten years. Why are spiders good correspondents ? Be- cause they drop a line by every post and at every house. What does a young lady become when she ceases to be pensive ? Ex-pensive. What is the sure sign of an early spring ? A cat watching a hole in the wall with her back up. A lady asked a gentleman how old he was? He answered, My age is w^hat you do in every- thing — excel (XL) Pray find a word that will produce a chair and table? Char-i-table. Why is it that whenever you are looking for anything you always find it in the last place you look? Because you always stop looking when you find it. I02 Why is the world like a cat's tail ? Because it is fur to the end of it. What is the most difficult lock to pick ? One from a bald head. If Rider Haggard had been Lew Wallace, who would ' ' She ' ' have been ? ' ' Ben- Hur. ' ' What would a pig do who wished to build himself a habitation ? Tie a knot in his tail and call it a pig's tie. Why is snow like a maple tree? Because it leaves in the early spring. Who is the first nobleman mentioned in the Bible ? Baron (barren) figtree. If a man bumped his head against the top of the room, what article of stationery would he get? Ceiling whacks, (sealing wax.) What is a good thing to part with? A comb. If 3-our uncle's sister is not your aunt what relation is she to you ? Your mother. " Why is a pig the most provident of all animals ? Because he always carries a spare- nb about him. 1^3 W ly is the church of St. Paul, London, like bird '^ nest? Because it was built by a wren (^Jir C'jnstopher Wren). Fen ivhat profession are the members of a coUefj'-' boat crew best fitted ? For dentistry, because they have a good pull. Why has a chambermaid more lives than a cat? Because each morning she returns to dust. Why ought the man who handles the reins on a horse car be successful ? Because he does a driving business. What paradox may often be found in a flower garden? A white pink. Why do carpenters have great faith in sooth- sayers ? They cannot work without an auger (augur). What does a yawning policeman resemble ? An open-faced watch. Wh}- is a crow like a lawyer ? He likes to have his caws (cause) heard. W"hat is the political character of a water- wheel? Revolutionary. Why are umbrellas like good churchmen ? They keep Lent so well. 104 Why is a cat going up three pair of stairs hke a high hill ? Because she's a-raountin'. What three letters give the name of a famous Roman general? C-P O (Scipio). Why should England be a very dry country? Because there has been but one reign there in over fifty years. Why is a nice, but uncultured girl like brown sugar? Because she is sweet but unrefined. Why are some women very much like tea- kettles ? Because they sing away pleasantly and then all at once boil over. What is the best way to keep fish from smelling? Cut off their noses. Why should you never confide a secret to your relatives? Because blood will tell. Which is the easier profession, a doctor's or a clergyman's? A clergyman's : he preaches, the doctor practices. How can it be proven that a horse has six legs? Because he has fore legs in front and two behind. How does light get through a prism? It hews (hues) its way through. I05 When is a pie like a poet ? When it is Browning. What can pass before the sun without making a shadow ? The wind. Why should watermelon be a good name for a newspaper ? Because its insides would really be read. Why should the number 288 never be men- tioned in company ? Because it is two gross. When is a tourist in Ireland like a donkey ? When he is going to Bray. Why are people of short memories necessarily covetous? Because they're always for-getting something. What is the beginning of every end, and the end of every place? The letter E- Why is the tolling of a bell like the prayers of a hypocrite ? Because it is a solemn sound by a thoughtless tongue. What letters of the alphabet are most like a Roman emperor? The C"s are. Why is a sneeze like Niagara? Because it's a catarrh- act. When does water resemble a gymnast.' When it makes a spring. lo6 What bird is in season all the year? The weather-cock. What would you expect to find on a literary man's breakfast table? Bacon's Remains, Final memories of Lamb, if in season, and Shelley fragments. When is a sick man a contradiction ? When he is an impatient patient. What is the dog-star announced to be ? A sky-terrier. What is the difference between a tunnel and a speaking trumpet ? One is hollowed in, the other is halloaed out. When may a man be said to be literally im- mersed in business? When he's giving a swimming lesson. What trade should one follow in order to cut a figure in the world ? A sculptor. What wind do we naturally look for after Lent? An Easter-ly one. How do little fish have a proper idea of busi- ness ? Not being able to do better, they start on a small scale. WTien do cards most resemble wolves? When they belong to a pack. ?07 ■ What vine does beef grow on ? The bo- vine. What is the difference betwecii the Mormons' religion and their wives ? Their religion ii singular, but their wives are plural. When is a man duplicated? When he's beside himself. If a well known animal you behead, Another one you will have instead. Fox (f-ox). Why is a drunken Irishman like a sentinel going his rounds ? He is pat-rolling. Why is a Zulu belle like a prophet of old ? She has not muchon'er in her own country. Why is a blacksmith like a safe steed ? Be- cause one is a horse-shoer, and the other is a sure horse. When giving invitations to a dancing party what single word will tell the hour to begin dancing? At ten-dance (attendance). What is the greatest physical feat ever per- formed ? Wheeling, West Virginia, on the Ohio. What does an envelope say when it is licked ? Just shuts up and says nothing about it. p8 Why is a pretty girl like an excellent mirror ? She's a good looking lass. When is an army totally destroyed ? When the soldiers are all in quarters. Why is too much whisky and champagne like the flowers that bloom in the spring ? Because they make the nose gay (nosegay). Why is a postman in danger of losing his way ? Because he is guided by the directions of strangers. What killed Joan of Arc? Too much hot stake. What is the difference between a watchmaker and a jailer? One sells watches and the other watches cells. Why are lawyers the most intemperate people? Because they are continually prac- ticing at the bar. What word of four syllables represents Sin riding on a little animal ? Sin-on-a-mouse (Synonymous) What motive had the in\"entor of railwa}s in view ! A loco-motive. With what do the mermaids tie up their hair ? With a marine band. What tree bears the most fruit to market ? The axle tree. What is the sharpest instrument mentioned in the Bible ? The Acts ' axe) of the Apostles. Why is a banker's clerk necessarily well informed? Because he is continually taking notes. Use me well and I am everybody ; scratch my back and I am nobody. A looking-glass. What great Scotchman would you name if a footman knocked at the door? John Knox. Why is a billiard maker like a stage prompter ? Because he gives the players a cue. Why is the sculptor Powers a great swindler ? Because he chiseled the Greek slave out of her clothes. Why is the bank of England like a thrush ? It often changes its notes. What is it, which the man that made it does not need, the man who buys it does not use for himself, and the person that uses it does not know it ? A coihn. Why are convicts like a pack of cards? Because there is a knave in everv suit. no When is a fact like a universal patent? When it is patent to " all." What kind of a swell luncheon would hardly be considered a grand affair ? A luncheon of dried apples and warm water, which is really a sw^ell affair. Why is a 3^oung lady like a promissory note ? Because she ought to be settled when she arrives at maturity. What is that w^hich always goes with its head downward ? A nail in your shoe. Why is a man just put in prison like a boat full of water? Because he wants bailing out. What sort of a face does an auctioneer like best ? One that is for bidding. Why should a poor salesman be put in the hands of a potter? Because he is ver}^ poor clay and should be fired. Wh}^ is an account book like a statuary shop ? It is full of figures. When a young man calls upon his sweet- heart what should he carry with him ? Affec- tion in his heart, perfection in his manners, and confections in his pockets. T TT What is that which Adam never saw, never possessed, yet left two to each of his children ? Parents. When may a base-ball nine say its "cake is all dough" ? When it does not have a good batter. Why is it better to lose an arm than a leg? Because when you lose a leg 3'ou lose some- thing to boot. What key in music will make a good officer? A sharp major. Wh}^ were the Jews of old like bad debts ? Because they killed the prophets (profits;. What is political economy ? Splitting your vote. What makes ever>^body sick but those that swallow it ? Flatter5\ What jury of twelve tries us for a 3-ear ? The twelve months ; they all try us. What is that which never flies except when its wings are broken ? An army. What is the difference between a very fasci- nating young lady and her watch ? The watch makes one remember the hours, and the young lady makes one forget them. 112 Wh}" is an egg like a colt ? Because it is not fit for use until it is broken. Why is a threadbare garment like a man who was up late at the ball ? Because both look worn out when the}^ lose their nap. What bridge creates the most anxiet}^ ? A suspension bridge. When does a cook break the game law ? When she poaches eggs. Wh}^ is a cigar loving man like a tallow can- dle ? Because he smokes when he is going out. What way of showing wrath has a tea ket- tle ? It sings sweetest when it is hottest. Why do you always make a mistake when you put on your slipper ? Because you put your foot in it. Wh}' is a lucky gambler an agreeable fellow? Because he has such winning ways. Why is the leading horse in a wagon team like the acceptor of a bill? Because he's the end horse, sir (endorser). What money brings the most substantial interest ? Matri-monv. 113 What is a remarkable fact when the Chinese actor loses his head ? He is pretty sure to lose his cue at the same time. Why, when you paint a man's portrait, may 3^ou be described as stepping into his shoes? Because you make his feet-yours (features;. Why is the inside of everything mysterious ? Because we cannot make it out. Why is the Pritice of Wales musing on his mother's government like a rainbow ? Because it's the son's refection on a steady reign. Biblical Conundrums Biblical Conundrums Who was the first man spoken of in the Bible ? Chap. I (chap first). Who was the first woman spoken of in the Bible? Genesis (Jennis Sis). At what time of day was Adam created ? A little before Eve. Spell "Adam's Express Company" with three letters. E-v-e, What one word in the Bible represents the father calling his son and the son's answering ? Ben Hadad (Ben, ha-dad). Who was a very short man spoken of in the Bible? Nehemiah (knee-high Miah). Who was the strongest man spoken of in the Bible ? Jonah, because the whale couldn't keep him down. Who was the greatest orator spoken of in the Bible ? Samson, because he brought the house down filled with his enemies. Who was the shortest man spoken of in the Bible? Beldad the Shuhite (shoe height). »i7 Tl8 Where was paper currency spoken of first in the Bible ? Where the dove left the ark and brought a green back. Why was Noah obliged to stoop on entering the ark ? Because, although the ark was high, Noah was a higher ark (hierarchy . Who took the first newspaper ? Cain took A Bell's (Abel's) Life, and Joshua counter- manded the Sun. W^hat proof have we that Moses was the most wicked man who ever lived ? Because he broke the Ten Commandments all at once. How long did Cain liate his brother? As long as he was Abel ^able). Where was sestheticism first spoken of in the Bible ? Where the Lord made Balaam's ass to utter. When were walking-sticks first mentioned in the Bible ? When Eve presented Adam with a little Cain (cane). What fur did Adam and Eve wear? Bear (^bare) skin. Who was the fastest runner in the world ? Adam, because he was first in the race. When did Moses sleep five in a bed ? When he slept with his fore fathers. 119 The following is a good sell if properly led up to : Who was the first man ? Adam ? Who was the first woman ? Eve. Who killed Cain ? The answer will very likely be Abel. What did Job's wardrobe consist of? Three wretched comforters. What three words did Adam use when he introduced himself to Eve which read backward and forward the same ? Madam, I'm Adam. Why was the first day of Adam's life the longest ? Because it had no Eve. How were xldam and Eve prevented from gambling? Their pair o' dice was taken away from them. What stone should have been placed at the gate of Eden after the expulsion ? Adam aint in (adamantine). What did Adam and Eve do when they were expelled from Eden ? They raised Cain. Why did Adam bite the apple Eve gave him ? Because he had no knife. Why was Eve made? For xVdam's express company. Who was the straightest man mentioned m the Bible ? Moses, because Pharaoh made a ruler of him. I20 What evidence have we that Adam used sugar ? Because he raised Cain. Who was the first man condemned to hard labor for life ? Adam. Why was the giant Goliath very much aston- ished when David hit him with a stone ? Be- cause such a thing had never entered his head before. Which are the two smallest things mentioned in the Bible? The widow's mite and the wicked flee. How is it that Methusalah was the oldest man when he died before his father? His father was translated. How many soft boiled eggs could the giant Goliath eat on an empty stomach ? One, after which his stomach was not empty. What was the difference between Joan of Arc and Noah's ark ? One was Maid of Orleans, the other was made of wood. Where did Noah strike the first nail in the ark? On the head. Why was Eve not afraid of the measles ? Because she'd Adam (had 'em). What church did Eve belong to? Adam thought her Eve-angelical. 121 What two animals carried the least into the ark ? The fox and cock, because they carried only a brush and comb between them. Who had the first entrance into a theatre ? Joseph, when he was taken from the family circle and put into the pit. In what place did the cock crow so loud that all the world heard him? In the ark. What became of Lot when his wife was turned into a pillar of salt ? He took a fresh one. Who first introduced salt meat into the navy ? Noah, when he took Ham into the ark. What animal took most baggage into the ark ? The elephant, who took his trunk. What confection did they have in the ark ? Preserved pairs (pears). What man mentioned in the Bible had no father? Joshua, the son of Nun. What reason have we to think that Moses wore a wig ? Because he was sometimes seen with Aaron and sometimes without 'Air on (hair on). Why was Noah like a hungry cat ? Because he went forty da3'S and forty nights without finding Ararat. 122 If Solomon was the son of David and Joab was the son of Zeruiah what relation was Zeruiah to Joab ? His mother. Note. — Most persons will answer "his father," not remembering that Zeruiah was a woman. If " Moses was the son of Pharaoh's daugh- ter," then he must have been the daughter of Pharaoh's son. Note. — Most persons will say that it was im- possible for Moses to have been a daughter, etc. It will aid in understanding it to connect the words thus ; " daughter-of-Pharoah's son." Poetical Conundrums Poetical Conundrums lyCgs I have, but seldom walk ; I backbite all, yet never talk. A flea. I came to a field and couldn't get through it ; So I went to a school and learned how to do it. Fence. My first I hope you are, My second I see you are, My whole I know you are, Wel-come. My first's a dirty little brute, My second's at the end on't ; My third like many an honest man. Is on a fool dependent. Pig-tail. By equal division — I know I am right — The half of thirteen you'll find to be eight. XIII nil VIII. AIII My number, definite and known, Is ten times ten told ten times o'er ; One-half of me is one alone, The other exceeds all count and score. Thou-sand. 125 126 There's a word composed of three letters alone, Which reads backwards and forwards the same ; It expresses the sentiments warm from the heart, And to beauty lays principal claim. Eye. The cat did my first with a curl of her tail, When the game she had made quite secure By means of my second and not of my whole, As she ought to have done, I am sure. Pur-chase. Pray tell me, ladies, if you can, Who is that highly favored man. Who though he has married many a wife, May still live single all his life ? A clergyman. Can you tell me why a hypocrite's eye Can better descry than you or I, On how many toes a pussy cat goes ? A man of deceit can best count-er-feit ; And so, I suppose, can best count her toes. Without my first you'd look very strange, My second you much want to be ; My whole is what many a lady has worn, At a ball, an assembly, or play. Nose-gay. 127 Two letters often tempt mankind, And those who yield will surely find Two others ready to enforce The punishment that comes of course. X-S and D-K (excess and decay). My first doth affliction denote, Which my second is destined to feel , My whole is a sweet antidote That affliction to soothe and to heal. Wo-man ! My first of anything is half, My second is complete ; And so remains until once more My first and second meet. Semi-circle. My first makes company, My second shuns company, My third assembles company, My whole puzzles company. Co-nun-drums. Safe on a fair one's arm my first may rest. And raise no tumult in a husband's breast ; To those who neither creep, nor run, nor fly, The want of legs my second will supply. My whole's a rival of the fairest toast, And when I'm liked the best I suffer most. Muf-fin. 128" What is that which is The beginning of eternity, The end of time and space, The beginning of every end, The end of every race ? Letter K. Your initials begin with an A, You've an A at the end of your name, The whole of your name is an A, And its backward and forward the same. Anna ! We are airy little creatures, Each have different forms and features • One of us in glass is set, Another you will find in jet ; A third, less bright, is set in tin, A fourth a shining box within ; And the fifth, if you pursue, It will never fly from you. Vowels. My first a baby does when you pinch it ; My second a lady says when she doesn't mean it; My third exists and no one e'er has seen it ; And my whole contains the world's best half withm it. Cri-no-line, 129 Formed long ago, yet made to-day, I'm most employed while others sleep ; What none would like to give away, Yet no one likes to keep. Bed. What's that? What's that? Oh! I shall faint, Call, call the priest to lay it ! Transpose it, and to king and saint, Ai?d great and good you pay it. Spectre ; respect. How shall the following be read ? Yy u r yy u b I c u r yy 4 me. Answer. — Too wise you are, Too wise 3'ou be ; I see 3'ou are Too wise for me. How shall the following be read ? U o a o, but I o thee ; O o no o, but O o me ; Then let m}^ o thy o be And give o o I o thee. Answer. — You sigh for a cipher, but I sigh for thee ; Oh ! sigh for no cipher, but oh ! sigh for me ; They let my cipher thy cipher be ; And give sigh for sigh, for I sigh for thee. 130 How shall the following stanza be read that it may be true ? There is a lady in the land With twenty nails on each hand, Five and-twenty on hands and feet, This is true without deceit. Answer. — There is a lady in the land With twenty nails ; on each hand Five, and twenty on hands and feet, This is true without deceit. French Conundrums French Conundrums Je suis le capitaine de vingt qiiatre Soldats, et sans moi Paris serait pris. The letter A. Pourquoi les amateurs du beau sexe vont-ils sou vent a 1' hippodrome ? Afin d'etre en cerque assis. Quelle difference y-a-t-il entre le souverain de la Perse et le Viceroi d'Egypte. C'est que Tun est chat (Shah) et 1' autre pas chat (Pacha). Quel est le peuple le moins gai de I'univers? Le peuple Persan, parse qu'el est gouvenie par un Schah (chat), et que le scliah fait fuir les souris. A French friend wishes to know : Vai ze Keeng ov Eatalee ees laike von seengair at ze opera oo ees loozeng ess voice ? Parce qu'il a perdu sa voix (Savoie). Pourquoi les Carthagenois portaient-ils tou- jours des gants? Parce qu'ils n'aimaient pas I'air aux mains (les Romans) ! 133 134 Quand un gant resemble-t-il an numero vingt cinq. Quand il est neuf et tres etroit (et treeze et trois) ! Un felon peut-il prendu pour devise, — " Hon- neur a Dieu ' ' ? Non, car il faut qu'il dise, — "Adieu, lion- neur ! ' ' Je ne suis paf, ce que je suis ; car si j'etais ce que suis, je ne serais pas ce que je suis, cepen- dant je suis ce que je suis ; devinez que je suis ? Un domestique qui suit sa maitresse. Arithmetical Puzzles Arithmetical Puzzles Write eleven thousand eleven hundred and eleven. Method. — 1 1,0004-1, ioo-i-ii==^i2,iii. What four United States coins will amount to fift3^-one cents ? Answer. — Two twenty five cent pieces and two half cents. Place three 6's together so as lo ainount to 7. Method.— 6 1=7. Place three 2's together so as to make 24. Method. — 22 + 2=24. Place three 3's together so as to make 24. Method. — 3^=24. Take one from nine and make it ten. Method. — Write nine thus, IX ; take away the I we have X. Add one to nine and make it twenty. Method. — Nine is IX ; cross the I we have XX. 137 138 Prove that one taken from nineteen leaves twent}-. Method.— Take the I from XIX, and we have XX. Make four straight lines and then add five straight lines and make ten. Method.— MM; TEN. Prove that the half of eleven is six. Method,— In XI draw a line thus, j-J, the upper half is VI. Prove that one added to twent}^ is nineteen. Method.— Add I to XX we have XIX. What number of three figures multiplied by 8 will make exactl}^ lo? Answer. — i^ or ^-25. Does the top of a carriage- wheel move faster than the bottom ? If so, explain the reason. Answer. — The top always moves faster than the bottom. Which is greater, and how much, six dozen dozen or a half a dozen dozen ; or is there no difference between them ? The former. 139 Which is heavier, a pound of gold or a pound of feathers ? Answer. — The pound of feathers, because it is weighed by Avoirdupois weight, while gold is weighed by Troy weight. Take fifty, add a cipher, add five, add the fifth of eight, and the total is the sum oi iiuman happiness. Answer.— LOVE. Six ears of corn are in a hollow stump ; how long will it take a squirrel to carry them all out if he takes out three ears a da}- ? Remark. — The " catch " is on the word ears. He takes out two ears on his head and one ear of corn each da}- ; hence, it takes six days. How to prove, by mathematical principles, that two unequal numbers are equal, as 4=2. Method.— All will admit that 8-8=4-4. Divide both of these by 2-2, and the quotient will be equal. Thus, 8—8 4— J 2 — 2 2 — 2 Supposing there are more persons in the world than any one has hairs on his head : then there must be at least two persons who have the same number of hairs on their head to a hair. Show how this is. 140 u Place 17 little sticks — matches for instance — making 6 equal squares, as in the margin. Then remove 5 sticks, and leave three perfect squares of the same size. Answer— The method of doing this is indicated in the margin of this answer. A and B have an 8 gallon cask full of wine, which they wish to divide into two equal parts, and the only measures the}- have are a 5- gallon cask and a 3-gallon cask. How shall thc}^ make the division with these two vessels ? Method, — First fill the 3-gallon cask from the 8-gallon cask ; then pour these 3 gallons into the 5-garion cask ; then fill the 3-gallon cask again, and fill the 5-gallon cask from the 3-gallon cask ; this will leave i gallon in the 3-gallon cask ; then empty the 5-gallon cask into the 8-gallon cask, pour the i gallon from the 3-gallon cask into the 5-gallon cask, and fill the 3-gallon cask from the 8-gallon cask. There will then be 4 gallons in the 8-gallon cask. Two men in an o^^ster saloon laid a wager as to w^hich could eat the most oysters. One ate ninety-nine and the other ate a hundred, and won. How man}' did both eat ? Remark. — The catch is on a hundred and won. When spoken it sounds as if it meant "one ate ninety-nine and the other ate a hundred and one ;" hence, the result usualU" given is two hundred. The correct result is one hundred and ninety-ninft If a room with 8 corners had a cat in each corner, seven cats before each cat, and a cat C):\ each cat's tail, what would be the whole miii: ber of cats ? Answer. — Eight cats. Tell a person to think of a number, multiply by 3, multiply the product by 2, divide the re- sult by 6, add 25, subtract the number thought of, divide by 4, and then tell him what his re- sult is. Method. — The result will be five. The reason is clear. Bj^ multiplying b\' 3 and 2 and dividing by 6 he has obtained the number thought of. Add 20, he has the number thought of, plus 20 ; then subtract the number thought of, and he has twent^^ Now I know he has twenty ; hence, I can tell him what he has if he divides b}- 4. A farmer having an ox-chain consisting of 15 links, broke it into five equal parts, and took it to a blacksmith to be welded together. The blacksmith agreed to repair it for 50 cents for each welding ; but when he presented his bill he charged for four weldings, making the bill $2.00. The farmer objected to the bill, saying that it should have been repaired with only three weldings. How was it to be done ? Method. — Each piece consisted of three links ; cut open the three links of one piece and use these to connect the other four pieces of the chain. 142 Think of a number, multiply by six; divide by three, add forty, divide by two ; name the result, and I will name the number thought of. Method. — Multiplying by six and dividing by three gives twice the number ; add fort\^ we have twice the number, plus fort}-, divide % two we have once the number, plus twenty ; hence, if I subtract twenty from the result he gives me I have the number thought of. Let a person select a number greater than i and not exceednig lo. I will add to it a num- ber not exceeding lo, alternately with himself; and, although he has the advantage in select- ing the number to start with, I will reach the even hundred first. ]\Ie:thod. — I make my additions so that the sums are 12, 23, 34, 45, etc., to 89, when it is evi- dent I can reach the hundred first. With one who does not know the method, I need not run through the entire series, but merel}^ aim for 89, and when the secret of this is seen aim at 78, then 67, etc. Think of a number of 3 or more figures, divide b)'' nine, and name the remainder ; erase one figure of the number, divide by 9, and tell me the remainder and I will tell you Vv^hat figure you erased. Method. — If the second remainder is less than the first, the figure erased is the difference between the remainders ; but if the second remainder is greater than the first, the figure erased equals 9, minus the difference of the remainders. 143 !Cet a person tliink of an\' number on the clial face of a watch. I will then point to various numbers, and at each he will silently add one to the number selected, until he arrives at twent}-, which he will announce aloud ; and m}- pointer will then be on the number he selected. Method. — I point proniiscuoush' about the face of the watch until the eighth point, which should be on the "12." I then pass regularly around toward the "i" pointing at "11," "10," "9," etc., until "twenty-" is called, when my pointer will be over the number selected. Take nine from six and ten from 7iine and fifty ^rom fortj, and six Avill remain. vSIX IX XL IX X L SIX Two-thirds of six is nine, one-half of tweh e is seven, the half of five is four, and six is half of eleven. :\rETHOD.— Two-thirds of SIX is IX. the upper half of XII is VII, the half of FIVE is IV, and the upper half of XI is VI. Two men have 24 ounces of fluid which they wish to divide between them equally. How shall they effect the division, provided they have only three vessels ; one containing 5 oz., the other 11 oz., and the third 13 oz. ? Method .—The method is similar to the division of 8 gadlons in the question on page 78. 144 Three persons own 51 quarts of rice, and have only two measures ; one a 4-quart, the other a 7-quart measure. How shall they divide it into three equal parts ? Method. — One- third of 51 is 17 ; so each must have 17 quarts. To measure 17 quarts fill the 7- quart measure twice and pour into some large vessel, making 14 quarts ; then fill the 7-quart measure, draw off 4 quarts in the 4-quart measure, and then pour the remaining 3 quarts in the vessel containing the 14 quarts. Think of a number composed of two unequal digits, invert the digits, take the difference between this and the original number, name one of the digits and I will name the other. Method. — The sum of the digits in the differ- ence is al\va3's nine ; hence, when one is named the other equals 9, minus the one named. Take any nurnbcr, consisting of three con- secutive digits and permutate them, making 6 numbers, and take the sum of these numbers, divide by 6, and tell me the result and I will tell you the digits of the number taken. Method.— The quotient consists of three equal digits ; the digits of the number taken are : ist. one of these equal digits ; 2d. this digit increased by a unit ; 3d. this digit diminished b}- a unit. The same principle holds \\hen the digit'i of the number taken differ by 2, 3, or 4. Jt is ?» very pretty problem to prove that ihe sum is a-^^ays divisible by 9 and i& 145 Take any number, divide it by 9, and name the remainder. Multiply the number by some number which I name, and divide the product by 9, and I will name the remainder. Method. — To tell the remainder. I multiply the first remainder by the number by which I told them to multiply the given number, and divide this product by 9. The remainder is the second number obtained. Think of a number greater than 3, multiph' it by 3 ; if even, divide it by 2 ; if odd, add i, and then divide by 2. Multiph^ the quotient by 3 ; if even, divide by 2 ; if odd, add i, and then divide by 2. Xow divide by 9 and tell the quotient without the remainder, and I will tell 3-ou the number thought of. Method. — If even both times, multiply the quo- tient by 4; if even 2d- and odd ist. midtiply by 4 and add i ; if even 1st and odd 2d, multiply by 4 and add 2 ; if odd both times, multiply bv 4'anH add 3. Suppose it were possible for a man in Cin- cinnati to start on Sunday noon, when the sun is in the meridian, and travel westward with the sun so that it might be in his meridian all the time. Now it was Sunday noon when he started, it has been noon with him all the way round, and is Monday noon when he returns. The question is, at what point did it change from Sunday noon to Monday uoou ? 146 Take any number, subtract the sum of the digits, strike out any digit from the remainder, tell me the sum of the remaining digits, and I will tell you the digit struck out. Method. — Subtract the "sum of the remain- ing digits " from the smallest multiple of nine greater than "the sum." The remainder will be the digit struck out. In the bottom of a well, 45 feet deep, there was a frog which commenced traveling toward the top. In his journey he ascended 3 feet every day, but fell back 2 feet every night. In how many days did he get out ? Method. — He gains i foot a day, and in 42 days he is 3 feet from the top ; and on the 43d day he reaches the top. Think of any three numbers less than 10. Multiply the first by 2 and add 5 to the pro- duct. Multipl}' this sum by 5 and add the second number to the product. Multiply the last result by 10 and add the third number to the product ; then subtract 250. Name the re- mainder and I will name the numbers thought of and in the order in w^hich they were thought of. Method. — The three digits composing this re- mainder will be the numbers thought of; and the order in which they were tin )ught of will be the »rder of hundreds, tens, and units. U7 If a man had a triangular lot of land, the largest side being 136 rods, and each of the other sides 68 rods ; what would be the value of the grass on it at the rate of $10 an acre? Remark. ^The "catch" in this is that the sides given will form no triangle. Says A to B : " Give me four weights and I can weigh any number of pounds not exceed- ing 40. ' ' Required the weights and the method of weighing. Answer. — The weights are 1,3, 9, and !•] pounds. In weighing we must put one or more in both scales, or some in one scale and some in another : thus, 7 lbs. =9 lbs.4-1 lb.— 3 lbs. Three men traveling with their wives came to a river which they wished to cross. There was but one boat and but two could cross at one time ; and since the husbands were jealous no woman could be with a man unless her own husband was present. In what manner did they get across the river ? Method. — Let the persons be denoted A. B. nnd C, and Mrs. A, Mrs. B, and Mrs. C. First Mr. A and Mrs. A go over ; then A comes back and Mrs. B and :Mrs. C go over ; then Mrs. A comes back and Mr. B and ]Mr. C go over ; then I\Ir. B and Mrs. B return and Mr. A and ^Ir. B go over ; then Mrs. C returns and I\Irs. A and Mrs. B go over ; then Mr. C returns and takes his wife, Mrs. C, over. 148 A man having a fox, a goose, and some com came to a river which it was necessary to cross. He could, however, take only one across at a time, and if he left the goose and corn while he took the fox over, the goose would eat the corn ; but if he left the fox and goose, the fox would kill the goose. How shall he get them all safely over ? Method. — First he takes the goose over, then returns and takes the fox over, then brings the goose back and takes the corn over, and then re- turns and takes the goose over again. How may the 9 digits be ar- ranged in a rectangular form so that the sum of any row, whether horizontal, vertical, or diagonal, shall equal 15? Answer. — As in the mar- gin. How may the first 16 digits be arranged so that the sum of the vertical, the horizontal, and the two oblique rows may equal 34 ? Answer. — As in the margin. 4 9 2 3 5 7 8 I 6 I 16 II 1 6 10 i 1'^ 4 7 8 9 14 3 12 5 2 15 149 In what man- ner may the first 25 digits be ar- ranged so that the sum of each row of five fig- ures may equal 65? Answer. — A s in the margin. I 10 12 18 24 9 II 20 22 3 13 19 21 5 7 17 23 2 4 6 15 25 8 14 ■' An old Jew took a diamond cross to a jew- eler to have the diamonds reset, and fearing the jeweler might be dishonest, he counted the diamonds and found that they numbered 7 in three different ways. Now the jeweler stole two diamonds, but arranged the remainder so that they counted 7 each way as before. How was it done ? INlETHOD. — The form of the cross when left is represented b\'- Fig. I, and when returned by Fig. 2. It will be seen by the figures how the diamonds were counted b}' the old Jew, and how they were arranged by the jewekr/who "jewed" the Jew. Fig. I. Fig. 2. 7 7 6 7^7 65^7 .s 4 4 3 3 2 2 I I I50 Take lo pieces of mone}^ lay them in a row, and require some one to put them together into heaps of two in each heap by passing each piece over two others. Method, — lyCt the pieces be denoted by the numbers i, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. Then place 7 on 10, 5 on 2, 3 on 8, i on 4, and 9 on 6. A man goes to a store and purchases a pair of boots worth $5 and hands out a $50 bill to pay for them. The merchant, not being able to make the change, goes over the street to a broker and gets the bill changed and then re- turns and gives the mm who bought the boots his change. After th? purchaser of the boots had been gone a few hours the broker, finding the bill to be a counterfeit, comes and demands $50 of good money from the merchant. How much does the merchant lose ? Remark. — At first glance some sa}^ S45 and the boots, some $50 and the boots, some S95 and the boots, and others $100 and the boots. Which is correct ? A vessel with a crew of 30 men, half of w^hom were black, became short of provisions and fearing that unless half the crew were thrown overboard all w^ould perish, the captain proposed to the sailors to stand upon deck in a row and every ninth man be thrown overboard until half the crew were destroyed. It so hap- 151 pened that the whites were saved. Required, the order of arrangement. Answer.— W W W W B B B B B W W B W \V W B W B B \V W B B B W B B W W B. This can easily be proved b}- trial, using letters or figures to represent men. Suppose a hare is lo rods before a hound, and that the hound runs lo rods while the hare runs I rod. Now, when the hound has run lo rods the hare has run i rod ; hence they are now I rod apart, and when the hound has run that one rod the hare has run -jV of 3. rod ; hence they are now j^ of a rod apart, and when the hound has run the j-^ of a rod they are j^-^j of a rod apart ; and in the same way it ma\- be shown the hare is always y'^ of the previous distance ahead of the hound ; hence the hound can never catch the hare. How is the contrar>- shown mathematically ? How far will the hound run to catch the hare. Answer. — The distance the hound runs will be represented by the series io-^i4-y'^--p^iy-f-Y^VTf. to infinity. The sum of this series can be found by the algebraic formula S= —-, in which ^=io and r=iV. Substituting the value of a and r we have This may be solved more simply as follows . The hound nms lo times as fast as the fox. hence lo times the distance the fox runs equals the dis- tance the hound runs. Then lo times the distance 152 tlie fox runs, minus once the distance the fox runs, which is 9 times the distance the fox runs, is lo rods ; and once the distance the fox runs is I, of lo rods, or Y rods ; and lo times the distance the fox runs, or the distance the hound runs, is lo times -^^or^f^°-, or ii^rods. If through passenger trains, running to and from Philadelphia and San Francisco daily, start at the same hour from each place (differ- ence of longitude not being considered) and take the same time— seven days— for the trip, how many through trains will the Pacific Ex- press, that leaves the San Francisco depot at 9 p. M. Sunday, have met when it reaches the Philadelphia depot ? Answer. — As the Pacific Express starts from San Francisco, a train which left Philadelphia the previous Sunda\' reaches San PYancisco, which is not to be counted as a meeting of trains. There are, however, six other trains on the way which it will meet. Also, a train starts from Philadelphia on the same Sunday as the train starts from San Francisco, another on Monda\-, another on Tues- day, etc., up to Saturday- — that is, seven trains, all of which it meets, making, with the six trains previously started, thirteen trains in all which it meets. A train leaves Philadelphia on Sunday at the same time the Pacific Express reaches there, but this is not counted as a meeting. A switch siding to a single-track railroad is just long enough to clear a train of eight cars and a locomotive. How can two trains of six- 153 teen cars and a locomotive, each going in oppo- site directions, pass each other at this siding and each locomotive remain with, and liave the same relative position to its own train after as before passing ? Answer. — Let one train ^ and its locomotive be de- ^\._^^ noted by A, and the other ^^ train and locomotive by B, ^ '• ^ and let the track be denoted by a b and the sidinj^ by c d, and suppose train A to be going in the di- rection of ^ b, and train B in the direction of <^ a. Then let locomotive B, with eight cars, run out toward rt-, past r. and back up on the siding with its eight cars ; then let train A run out toward />, past c : then let B draw its eight cars on to the main track and run out toward a ; then let train A back over toward a. past c, and locomotive A be detached from train A and run over toward b and connect with the eight cars of train B and draw them over past r, and back them up on the sidincr, and then run off the siding and connect again with its own cars and run on toward b^ pastr; then let locomotive B back its eight cars and. turning: on the siding, connect the two halves of its train and move off past a, the train A moving on at the same time past b. A and B went to market with 30 pigs each. A sold his pigs at 2 for $1, and B sold his pigs at the rate of 3 for $1, and they, together, re- ceived $25. The next day A went to market alone with 60 pigs, and, wishing to sell at the 154 mme rate, sold them 5 for $2, and received only $24. Why should he not receive as much as when B owned half of the pigs ? Answer. — The rate of 2 pigs for $1 is i pig for $1, and the rate of 3 pigs for $1 is i pig for $| ; the average rate is 2 pigs for $i-(-$j, or $|, or i pig for $j%. The rate of 5 pigs for $2 is i pig for $|. So it is seen that the reason A did not receive as much is that he sold his pigs at a less rate than when they both went to market. Two hunters killed a deer and sold it by the pound in the woods. They had no proper means of weighing it, but knew their own weights— one 130 pounds and the other 190 pounds. They placed a rail across a fence so that it balanced with one of them on each end. They then exchanged places, the lighter man taking the deer in his lap, and the rail agjwin balanced ; what was the weight of the deer ^ Answer. — Let the weight of the deer be denoted b}^ D ; then, by the principles of the lever, we have the proportion : 130 : 190= 190: 1304 D: Or, 130 (130 + D) = 190 X 190 ; Whence, 16900 + 130 D = 36100 : Or, 130 D =r 19200 ; And, D = H7^. Who can solve the following problem ? A hundred and one by fifty divide. And next let a cipher be duly applied, 155 And if the result 3^011 should rlghtl}- divine, You'll find that the whole makes but one out of nine. ExPLANATiox.— CI, CLI, CLIO (Clio, the muse of histor}', one of the nine muses). Suppose the figure to represent railroad tracks, 'J|e C D and E F beins: each the leno-th of a car or loco- ^ ^ '?3 motive, and a and b each representing a car on the track and c representing a locomotive on E F. Now how can the locomotive change the relative position of a and b so that b will be on the track where « is and « will be on the track where <^ is ? Answer. — The locomotive c backs a down and out toward A, then runs over toward B and backs /^ up on E F, then runs back toward B and goes over toward A. then runs up C E and draws b down on CE, then runs over toward A and gets car ^7. draws it over toward B and backs it up on D E. It can also be readih' done by first backing a down on A C and drawing to and leaving it on C D. TALKS By GEORGE THATCHER The Celebrated Minstrel MO Pages Paper Binding 25 Cents 'T'HIS unique volume supplies in a most satisfactory way the want that has heretofore been but indif- ferently met by the so-called Stump-Speech books. Mr. Thatcher is without doubt the most popul r man in minstrelsy, his name being known among mirth- loving people everywhere, not only in America, but beyond the seas. It is most fortunate that the services of a per- son so distinguished have been secured for the prepara- tion of this book, especially since he has put in it his own original matter exactly as he uses it nightly to con- vulse his audiences with laughter. The book contains all his Monologues, Parodies, Songs, Sketches, Poems, Speeches, Jokes, etc.^ etc. It will be found invaluable to every humorous reader, to amateur and professional minstrels, and in addition will prove interesting read- ing to any person who is fond of the lighter vein of literature. THE PENN PIJBI