An Electrical Stratagem.

Te Aroha News, Volume V, Issue 246, 14 March 1888, Page 9

An Electrical Stratagem.

According to the " Electrical Review,'" when the electric telegraph was first introduced into Chili, a stratagem was resorted to in order to guard the posts and wives' against damage on the part of the Arau - canian Indians and maintain the connection between the strongholds on the frontier. There weve at the time between forty and fifty captive Indians in the Chilian camp. General Pinto called them together, and pointing to the telegraph wires, he said : — "Do you see those wires?" "Yes, General." "Very good. I want you to remember not to go near nor touch them, for if you do you hands will be held and you will lie unable fco get away." Tte-* Indians trailed incredulously. Then the General made them each in succession take hold of the wires at both ends ot an electric battery in full operation. After which he exclaimed — " I command you to let gothe wire '" "I can't; my hands are benumbed," said the Indian. The battery was then stopped, and the man released. Not long after the General restored them to liberty, giving them strict injunctions4o keep the secret, and not to betray it totheir countrymen on any account. Thifr had the desired effect, for, as might be expected, the experiment was related " in thestrictest confidence " to every man of the tribe, and the telegraph has ever since remained unmolested.