Samples Provided.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 1, Issue 89, 9 December 1890, Page 3

Samples Provided.

Some years ago three Americans went to Europe together—Dr M‘Vickar, of Philadelphia, Mr Phil ips Brooks, and Mr Robinson, the builder of Bos'.on’s Trinity Church. Mr Robinson stands Gft 2in his stockings, Dr M‘Vickar measures 6ffc Ain, and Mr Brooks exceeds 6ft in height. Mr Robinson is sensitive about his height, and suggests that, in order to avoid comment, the three men should avoid being seen together. While at Leeds they went to h ar a lecturer address the working class on ‘America and Americans.’ They cn'ered ssparately, and took seals as far apart as possible. The lecturer, after some uninteresting re’tnarks, s'ated that Americans were as a rule short, and seldom, if ever, rose above the height of sft loin — In fact they were a race of pigmies. He did not know to what cause he could attribute this fact, but be. wished he could present examples. Mr Brooks rose to his fret and stretched ‘ his 6 fel to the utlmost, as he said, “ I am an American, and as you sec about 6't in height. I do not exceed the average American in stature or in weight, though I turn the scales at 2001bs; and I sincerely hope that, if there be any other representatives I of my country present, he will vouch for the truthfuilness of my remarks.” After a moment’s interval Mr Robinson rose, and in a stentorian voice cried, “l am from America, in which country my diminutive height —Gft 2in —is the subject of remark, as I am just a little below the average. If there be any other American here 1 hope that he will corroborate my testimony.” The audience was in a jolly humor. Waiting until the excitement could abate in some degree and the poor lecturer regain control of his shattered nerves, Dr M'Vickar slowly drew his majestic form to its full height and exclaimed I am au Amer—” But got no further The audience roared.