A CHALLENGE IN THE BACKWOODS.

Mount Ida Chronicle, Volume III, Issue 166, 10 May 1872, Page 3

A CHALLENGE IN THE BACKWOODS.

It is so happened Cainpton was travelling in his own conveyance, and accompanied by his? wife, during a pleasant day in the he came to a halt on the margin of a certain river and shouted to the ferryman. Indue time the indispensable gentleman was ready, and while requiring the news of the day he was suddenly smitten with a new thought, and dropping the painter of the old scow, looked inquiringly into the major's face, when the following dialogue ensued: — " Stranger, ain't your name Major f Campton?" "Yes, "sir, it is, "What business have you to transact with me?" " You are the very man I have long been waiting to see, for you must know that lam the Bully of the North." "Indeed. What do I care for that?" " I've heard tell that you are a famous fighter, and I should like to have you giving me a thrashing. If you can." " Why, man, I have nothing against you, and do not want to make a fool of myself?" " But you shall though, my honey and you don't cross this ferry until it is decided whois cock of the walk?" Remonstrance on the part of the major was ajl in. vain—the ferryman was determined to fight. The, major held a short consultation with his lady, who was, of course in great trouble; but taking off his coat and unbuttoning his straps, he stepped out upon a grass spot and waited for the ferryman's attack. To shorten a long story, the fight was a tedious one, and ended in the total defeat of the challenger,. who presented in himself, after the struggle, an admirable picture of a mispent life. He had, however, strength enough left to ferrv the champion over the river ; and when the major offered to pay the accustomed fare, the latter held not out his hand, but making a rude bow, he exclaimed, " -S r ot a dime, sir. Good afternoon." —New York Clipper.