Challenge Extraordinary.

Cromwell Argus, Volume V, Issue 217, 6 January 1874, Page 7

Challenge Extraordinary.

j The method of advertising travelling-shows j most in vogue this season seems to be by extraordinary-si zed posters of all colours, anil issuing challenge programmes. The following is part of the programme of John Smith, proprietor of tiro Phoenix Great Western, Oil Wohn Job'.son Combination Show ;—I will bet 100,000 dols. that I have the largest show ever seen in the world, that I have four times as many animals as Mr Noah had in his menagerie, and also many specimens not included in bis collection ; 50,000 dols. that I have more ferocious beasts and animals than any second-rate Chicago boarding-house or hotel; 300,000 dols. that my performers receive more salary than the president, all the congressmen and representatives put together, including back and front pay; 120,000 dols. that I have among many chariots the one in which Pharoah was riding when overwhelmed by the Red Sea ;' also two that passed through the siege of New Orleans (donated to me by General Butler and others); 5 dols. that I have more cheek than any man in the business, and 10 dols. given to anyone who will take the bet. In conclusion, I would say that I am not a betting man—nor a gambler, but if any clergyman or regular deacon, wherever my show exhibits, desires to indulge in a weak game of “ old draw,” I will play him, at a “dollar ante,” the proceeds to be devoted to charitable objects.— St. Louis Democrat.