MISPLACED INGENUITY.

South Canterbury Times, Volume XV, Issue 2072, 12 November 1879, Page 2

MISPLACED INGENUITY.

A very ingenious method has been adopted in Franca for smuggling spirits into Paris, For some time past the guardians of the Bois de Boulogne bad remarked a lady who, entering the paths reserved for riders, traversed them at full gallop and disappeared as if by enchantment before the employees of the Octroi could subject her to the usual formalities. It was chiefly through the Boulogne Gate that the fair unknown passed, so one day, after putting their heads together, these worthy people determined to be even with her. They waited a day or two in vain, but at last their patience was rewarded. On came the horse at full speed, clearing the barrier, but alas, it took the bit in its teeth; and its rider soon screamed for help. The crisis was of short duration. Down went the steed with its too bold rider, and two gentlemen who were passing rushed up to render assistance. Great was their surprise on finding that the lady was a man after all, whose corsage of indiarubber was filled with

brandy, while the saddle was crammed with the same liquor, which was thus being smuggled almost every day into the capital. The rider, thus detected slipped off his habit, and disappeared into an alley with the rapidity of a hare, leaving his horse behind him. The man has not yet since been seen, and the animal remains unclaimed.