The Vagaries of an American Journalist.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 2, Issue 222, 21 December 1880, Page 2

The Vagaries of an American Journalist.

A letter bearing the forged signature of Garfield, the new President of America, was circulated during the election, and the sentiments it contained alienated from Garfield the votes of three States. Regarding the writer of the letter, and the forger of Garfield’s signature, the Burlington (Vermont) Review says:—Philp came to this country from England in 1866, and had newspaper connections with the New York Star, the Brooklyn Monthly and the Brooklyn Union while Theodore Tilton was editor of the latter. He was a live journalist, and full of fun, and we might say “ deviltry.” At one time he invited a large number ot reporters to a spread at Delmonico’s, and just before the waiter carried around the checks, was conveniently called out. The result was that each guest paid for his own “ grub,” and this was only done by a general pooling of the cash of all the parly, and then sundry watches and charms had to lie in pawn. If we remember correctly it cost each in the end some 10 dols. for that champagne supper. The night before he wound up his connection as managing editor of the Union he inyited the reportorial staff to his room, and remarked' that a certain application for increase of salaries, through his representation to the proprietors, had been favorably acted upon, and; a subscription for a handsome watch, properly engraved as a recognition of his services was promptly filled up. Before quitting the office the next day for good, Philp wore the watch in his vest pocket. It was a good sell, and so well done that one.* ; .and. all forgave the actor. It is" needless to say that the exigencies of tire Union at that time demanded a reduction, which took effect at the veritable time that, Philp promised an increase. Philp generally did things on the spur pf the and when he determined to take unto, himself a wife, it was not after .much waiting. In consequence he was illy

prepared, at least he did not have a swallowtail coat. But good-natured joe Howard had one, and an order for it on Job’s wife was solicited and received. - The good lady, recognizing her husband’s city'editor, sent him up into her husband’s dressing-room. Philp emerged in a complete suit, both outer and under. After the ceremony the outfit was pawned, Simpson furnishing a ticket, which was mailed to Howard from Albany. Philp is not a badhearted fellow, whatever he said. Heretofore’ fils very audacity has protected him., ■