Death of Homer Mouton.
As editor in charge of The Gazette for the past three weeks, the sad duty devolves upon me of chronicling the death of my friend, Homer Mouton.
I feel at the outset that silence, the natural concomitant of death, where more eloquent than mere words; and I consult the dead editor's wishes, he would frown down on any laudation. But custom, and the fact that may friends of The Gazette outside the parish of Lafayette may not yet be apprised of the death of its editor, make it necessary that a few words of tribute be paid to the deceased - words which at best cannot but be inadequate.
"Homer Mouton died at the residence of his father, Chas. Homer Mouton, in Lafayette, on Tuesday morning, Sept. 15, at 8 o'clock."
This simple announcement on the streets of Lafayette told of the passing away of this man. How truly in accord with his modest, unobtrusive nature. How fitting that it should be recorded thus. His death was as quiet and peaceful as his life. Never for a moment did he complain of the gradual dissolution he realized was taking place; and when his soul took its flight, 'twas like the going out of a candle's light - gently, quietly the end had come. When the fact was made known that Homer Mouton was no more, it came like a shock to this whole community and parish.
Somehow the soul of this man, who did so much to uplift and elevate the people among whom he chose to live and work, seems to hover about his humble desk where I now write. Had I the power to commune with this essence and take from it the eloquence that was its wont, I should set down here in living, burning woods the tribute that is his due. But that power is denied me; and poor indeed will be this effort to do him simple justice.
Homer Mouton was a large-souled, big-hearted, broad-minded Democrat. He was all that the full significance of those words conveys. He was more. He was as modest as a woman, and as brave as Caesar. He was as simple in manner as an Acadian peasant, and as forceful intellectually as Burke. He had the keenest and clearest perception and the strongest reasoning faculties of any man I ever met. He grasped a proposition almost in its incipiency, reasoned it out thoroughly and accurately, and reached a correct and logical conclusion in a way that compelled respect for his commanding intellect. He wrote with a force and lucidity that was incomparable. His editorials were the equal of any produced in this country. His squibs were full of that censure which wounded not but merely stimulated the object of their satire to nobler and better things. His sketches were pithy, brilliant and frequently filled with subtle humor that was irresistible. He had the faculty of compelling thought in the minds of others. He was honest in his convictions and he spoke the truth. This carried weight in whatever he wrote. He was well versed in politics, and understood thoroughly the principles which underlie our system of government; and was ever ready with his masterful pen to defend the rights of the people. His Democracy was as broad as Jefferson's. He loved humanity, and he trusted the people. He looked upon the vicious and improvident as unfortunate, and was ever ready to help alleviate their consequent misery. He was charitable to a fault. He bore no malice. He was not self-centered. He knew no egotism. He was deferential to everybody. He was a dutiful son and an affectionate brother. He was self-sacrificing. Almost if not the last act of his life was one of abnegation for filial loves sake.
And now, with this short portrayal of his character, the feeling comes over me that I have done but scant justice to the deceased. Homer Mouton had an individuality peculiarly his own. Although his many-sided nature could always be partly read by those who knew him well, yet it could not be wholly comprehended.
In the full vigor of his manhood, physical, intellectual and moral, his life was cut short. When he was prospering most the grim messenger of death beckoned him to come. Never more will his brilliant pen help battle for the rights of men. Never more will it speak in clarion tones for the cause of public education. Every cause that is good, every move that is righteous, will suffer by his untimely end. His loss is irreparable. It will not be felt in the town and parish of Lafayette alone, but throughout this whole section of Louisiana.
To testify to the high esteem in which he was held by everybody in this community, a large concourse of people, including friends and members of local organizations, accompanied the remains on Tuesday evening, September 15th, at 5:30 o'clock, to the Catholic church and cemetery, where the interment took place. Perhaps one of the most impressive scenes of the funeral was the presence in the procession of the school children of Lafayette, who showed thereby their appreciation of his constant efforts in behalf of public education. May he rest in peace.
As time and space in this issue of The Gazette precludes the possibility of my saying more, it is my purpose at some later date to give a biographical sketch of Homer Mouton, showing fully and in detail the remarkable career of this man of seven month's schooling.
L. W. MAYER. Lafayette Gazette 9/19/1903.
Notice: To the Patrons of The Gazette.
The appearance of The Gazette this week must not be taken to indicate that publication will be stopped. On the contrary, The Gazette will continue to be published. It was the wish of the family of the deceased editor that nothing but legal matter be published this week, beside which the chief printer is a close connection, and was too deeply grieved to resume work at the proper time; and the, so far as I am concerned, the pressure of other business.
L. W. MAYER. Lafayette Gazette 9/19/1903.
Opening Exercises of the Industrial Institute.
The opening exercises of the Industrial Institute will be held next Tuesday the twenty-second, at eight o'clock p. m., instead of Monday morning. An interesting program has been arranged for the occasion and the public is given a cordial invitation to be present. Addresses will be delivered by Hon. C. D. Caffery, Rev. C. C. Kramer and others. The Sontag Military Band will assist in the entertainment of the audience.
Lafayette Gazette 9/19/1903.
Speaks Well for Lafayette. - The fame of the public schools of Lafayette has gone abroad, and each year finds the number of pupils in attendance from neighboring parishes is growing larger. The enrollment at the primary and high school this session includes pupils from Iberia, Opelousas, Erath, Abbeville, Grosse Tete and Grand Cheniere. Lafayette has excellent schools and we are only too glad to share our advantages with our neighbors. With its fine system of private and public schools and the un-excelled facilities for higher education offered by the Southwestern Industrial Institute, Lafayette is acquiring a prominent and proud position as a center of education and culture, and the community is already reaping great benefits in consequence.
Lafayette Gazette 9/19/1903.
City Council Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., Sept. 8, 1903. - A regular meeting of the City Council was this day held, Mayor C. D. Caffery presiding. Members present: J. O. Mouton, A. E. Mouton, F. Demanade, H. L. Fontenot, M. Rosenfield, G. A. DeBlanc. Absent: D. V. Gardebled.
The chairman of Water and Light Committee reported progress in the matter of the new work at plant, reservoir being nearly completed, and also that of the pump. And everything in readiness for the pump which is due to arrive by Sept. 15, that the latest informations from the builders of pump is that same was completed and same was not in test shop.
The chairman of this committee also reported an accident to one of the dynamos, which had been sent to the Johnson shop for repairs at a cost of $173.00, and the foundry promised to return same as soon as possible.
Petition of Mr. L. Domingeaux by Mr. J. A. Van Dyke was refused.
Dr. F. Mayer asked for an appropriation for the reception of the State Medical Association, during the month of May next. Action on the matter was deferred to next regular meeting.
Bill of Dr. F. E. Girard for $46.oo for wire bought for street fair and turned over to town, was referred to Water and Light committee for adjustment.
Communication of P. L. Breaux, principal of colored school requesting an appropriation for erecting a public school in Mills addition was accepted. On motion of A. E. Mouton, seconded by M. Rosenfield and carried, the sum of $100.00 was appropriated for that purpose.
Mayor Caffery's report was accepted as follows:
Bazaars ... $5.00
Stock fines ... $3.00
Mayor's court ... $17.00
Total $25.00
Petition of Mrs. L. F. Rigues for a permit to build an addition to her residence 12 x 14 in lumber was rejected.
The following bills were approved:
Lafayette Gazette ... $44.00
Cleophas Richard ... $4.50
V. Duhon ... $6.50
A. E. Mouton ... $9.96
A. E. Mouton ... $51.31
B. Miller ... $2.50
V. Duhon ... $2.60
V. Duhon ... $23.50
Advertiser ... $25.00
A. Hirsh ... $31.20
V. Duhon ... $4.55
W. U. Tel. Co. ... 0.60
Electric Appliance Co. ... $57.75
Fairbanks Co. ... $70.00
Fairbanks Co. ... $14.00
Fairbanks Co. ... $10.75
Fairbanks Co. ... $17.15
Fairbanks Co. ... $9.00
Lafayette Brick & Tile Co. ... $75.00
The Fairbanks Co. ... $17.73
A. E. Mouton ... $9.99
A. E. Mouton (for reservoir) ... $1,214.07
Cumberland Tel. & Tel. Co. ... $1.50
V. Duhon ... $3.30
E. T. McBride ... $15.70
A. E. Mouton ... $19.46
It was moved by G. A. DeBlanc and duly seconded, and carried that the following ordinance be adopted:
An Ordinance, providing for the construction and paving of side walks along the streets of the town of Lafayette, La., and for keeping same in repair.
Section 1 - Be it ordained that the City Council shall hereafter, whenever in its judgment the public interest requires it, build and construct along the streets of said town, side walks and curbing, concrete, brick or plank, as said Council may determine, and same shall be built according to plans and specifications be adopted by said Council.
Section 2 - Be it further ordained, that said walks may be built under the direct supervision of the Council, or by contract, and in the event the same is to be built by contract, this said work shall be let to the lowest responsible bidder from whom there shall be exacted satisfactory security of the faithful execution of said contracts, that fifteen days notice for bids for said work shall be given in an official journal of said town; provided in the event no satisfactory bid is received, then that said Council shall have the right to reject any and all such bids, and thereupon to exercise its original rights to cause said work to be done under the supervision of the street Committee of said town.
Section 3 - Be it further ordained that the provisions of this ordinance shall also apply to all repairs to be hereafter made upon the side walks of said town.
Be it further ordained that the cost of all work done under the provisions of this ordinance shall be borne as follows; two thirds by the owners of the lot abutting the side walk, curbing or portion therof to be paved, improved or repaired, and one third by said town.
Section 4 - Be it further ordained that whenever said Council shall determine to enter upon the construction of any work under this ordinance the cost thereof shall be determined as soon as practicable, and thereupon said Council shall provide by ordinance for the assessment of all real estate abutting the side walk or curbing to be built or repaired to cover two thirds of said cost; said assessment to be upon the basis of the respective frontage of said properties on said walk.
Section 5 - Be it further ordained that the sum assessed against the lot or real estate so abutting shall be due and collectable within ten days after the completion of the work and its acceptance by the Council, and if not paid within that time, the City Council shall have the power to proceed by suit against the said owners and said real estate to collect the delinquent assessment, and the said municipality shall have a special privilege on said property or prosperities to secure the sum assessed against it, with six per cent per annum interest thereon from the expiration of the said ten days until paid, which lien shall be the first privilege over all other claims except taxes; said privilege shall affect third persons from the date of the registry of the assessment in the mortgage book of the parish in which said real estate is situated, provided that the town Council, instead of enforcing the said assessment as above fixed upon the payment in cash by the property owner of twenty-five per cent of the amount due by the said property owner, may in their discretion, authorize the mayor to approve notes or certificates signed by said owner, showing the amount respectively due by the persons and properties on said side walks or curbing so paved or improved, which shall be payable in one, two and three years, or sooner at the option of the property owner, with six per cent interest per annum, interest payable annually, which said notes or certificates (when a copy of the same is recorded with the assessment aforesaid) duly paragraphed as being recorder of mortgages, shall be secured by privileges, on the property, prior to all other charges, except taxes, and may be transferred, carrying the lien, and privilege herein above provided for, to any contractor or other person provided than when the work is done by the town, said certificates may be made to bearer or any person who may desire the same, and they shall enjoy the lien and privilege aforesaid.
Section 6 - Be it further ordained that this ordinance shall take effect forthwith.
Be it further ordained that in accordance with the provisions of the ordinance this day adopted relative to side walks, that Shillinger pavement 6 feet wide including the curbing be built, starting on Grant avenue at the center line of Crescent News Hotel, running to the corner of Lincoln Avenue to Pierce street, thence along the south east side of Pierce street to Vermilion street, thence along the north side of Vermilion street to Lafayette street, thence along the east side of Lafayette street to north Main street.
Be it further ordained that the street committee be and is hereby empowered to have specifications prepared for said walk, and thereon to call for bids for said work to be submitted within 15 days notice, contractor to furnish bond in the sum to be hereafter determined, for the faithful compliance of his contract. Adopted unanimously.
Moved and duly seconded that the City Council meetings be held hereafter on first Monday of each month at 7:30 p. m. Carried.
There being no further business Council adjourned.
CHAS. D. CAFFERY, Mayor.
LOUIS LACOSTE, Secretary.
Lafayette Gazette 9/19/1903.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of September 19th, 1896:
Democratic Executive Committee.
Lafayette, La., Sep. 14, 1896. - Pursuant to call of the Democratic Parish Executive Committee of Lafayette Parish a mass meeting was this day held at the Court House in Lafayette for the purpose of selecting Delegates to the Congressional Nominating Convention of the 3rd Congressional District to meet at Morgan City on Tuesday the 12th inst.
The meeting was called to order by Dr. J. P. Francez, Chairman of said Executive Committee.
On motion Dr. F. E. Girard was made Chairman and R. W. Elliot Secty.
On motion the following committee on resolutions was appointed; Messrs. Wm. Campbell, W. B. Torian, Dr. J. P. Francez, H. A. Van der Cruyssen and D. A. Cochrane.
The following resolutions were unanimously adopted.
"Whereas the last Legislature passed an election law known as Act No. 137 of the session of 1896 by which nearly one-half of the true and tried white Democrats of this and many adjoining parishes will be deprived of their right to vote, resolved therefore that we condemn said Act and ask that it be repealed by the next Legislature and we commend the manly act of our Senator Robert Martin and our Representative G. W. Scranton in refusing to participate in the Democratic Caucus in which said act was drafted and passed.
Resolved, that we will use all fair and legitimate means to defeat the limited Constitutional Act. That the people being sovereign when assembled in Convention.
Resolved, further that as United States Senator Don Caffery has joined the bolters and has failed in the trust imposed in him and is opposing by his actions the Democratic nominees Bryan and Sewall and is opposed to the Chicago platform; that we ask that he resign as United States Senator.
On motion the following named Delegates were elected to represent the parish of Lafayette in said nominating convention of the 3rd Congressional District.
Wm. Campbell, W. B. Torian, R. W. Elliot, D. A. Cochrane, Dr. F. E. Girard, Wm. Couret, H. H. Hohorst, Dr. G. W. Scranton, Sigumond Bernard, H. Begnaud. The delegates present cast the vote of the Parish.
On motion the delegates were instructed to vote only for a candidate standing squarely on the Chicago Platform for Silver at 16 to 1 and Bryan and Sewall.
Moved that a copy of these proceedings be sent to the Lafayette Advertiser and New Orleans Times Democrat for publication.
The meeting then adjourned.
DR. D. E. GIRARD, Chairman.
R. W. ELLIOT, Secty.
Advertiser 9/19/1896.
[To the Editor of Lafayette Advertiser.]
Duson, La., Sept. 9, 1896. Dear Sir:- I have not much encouraging news to communicate for the drought is upon us with a heavy hand; we have had no rain of any consequence, since the last of May when it rotted our rice just planted. This crop is almost a total failure. Early corn made fairly well but later plantings are very light and this is the largest part of our crop. Cotton is nearly all open and many are over half done picking. We have two new gins at and near Duson. The pasturage is drying up and we have great difficulty in getting a sufficiency of water for the stock, there are many persons from Mermentau River coming with posts for wire fence which they trade for corn at ten barrels per hundred posts. Our public roads work that was going on successfully had to stop, the ground is so dry it cannot be worked. The good roads league advocate working our roads by taxation and I think the matter is well understood our people will vote for it as it will only be at three dollars per thousand dollar's worth of property. Our road, when once raised above the water level with a wide base, make a permanent highway, most of our road makers, make the base too narrow, and it soon washes away. There is a Methodist Church being built near Mr. Preston Hoffpauir's about one-half of the lumber is on the grounds, now the balance is on the way. I will close for column.
Respectfully,
OBERON.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1896.
"Judgement."
17th Judicial District Court.
Philomene Bernard vs. Dominique Cayret Jr.
In this case by reason of default having been regularly taken, and no motion made to set same aside within legal delays and for the further reasons, that the law and the evidence are in favor of plaintiff, Philomene Bernard, wife, and against Dominique Cayret, Jr., husband and defendant, it is therefore ordered, adjudged and decreed, that plaintiff's demands be granted, and that there be judgment in her favor dissolving the community of acquets and gains, now existing between them. It is further ordered adjudged and decreed, that she does have the exclusive management, control and administration of any and all property that she may now have or hereafter require, or which she may now separately own.
It is further ordered and decreed that the defendant pays all the costs of said proceedings.
Thus done, read and signed in open court at Lafayette, Louisiana on this 18th day of August, A. D., 1896.
(Signed) C. DEBAILLON, Judge of the 17th Judicial District Court of Lafayette Parish, Louisiana. Lafayette Gazette 9/19/1896.
Fred Mouton to Grand Coteau.
We learn with regret the departure of one of our best known citizens and businessmen, Mr. Fred Mouton. He informs us that as soon as he has completed his contract with the People's Cotton Oil Co., he will remove his family to Grand Coteau, which place he expects to make his future home and where he will enter into the General Merchandise business his brother-in-law E. V. Barry. In the removal of Mr. Mouton Lafayette loses one of its best architects, and most energetic businessmen, but we hope he will meet with the same success in his new venture that he has always merited while with us. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1896.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of September 19th, 1891:
City Council.
To the Hon. Mayor and Council of Lafayette:
We, the undersigned committee of, appointed to see parties owning land through which Garfield is to pass, make this report: Having seen Mr. Leo Doucet, committee of one, appointed by preceding Council, for opening said street, we hereby submit his answer as result of our investigation.
GUS LACOSTE, N. SCHAYOT, JAMES HANNEN
To Hon. Mayor and Council of Lafayette:
Having been appointed a committee of one to open Garfield street, I make the following report. I find it impossible to open said street with amount appropriated for that purpose, the parties through which said street opens refusing to sell their right of way for anything like reasonable amount, For committee,-
LEO DOUCET.
Resolved that the report of the committee on streets concerning the opening of Garfield street was indefinitely postponed.
The petition of persons and citizens of town asking that a part known as the Mills addition be properly ditched and drained as the let the water have its issue, was laid over, according to the report made from committee on streets, which read thus:
We the undersigned committee appointed to investigate demand of residents of Lafayette street and other streets make this our report:
We find that those streets have no ditches. That a ditch on each side of said street and also a ditch to receive water of street ditches, would be necessary to properly drain that neighborhood, that there are fences of residents on said streets; that it would first require to move those fences from their present position before being able to dig ditches in their proper places. We got following information from Mr. Bailey, mayor of preceding council, and Messrs. Gerac and Pellerin, members of proceeding council. They state that they had the matter in hands several times; that to put ditches in their proper places, they would first have to draw the right lines and also move the fences. They saw a surveyor in this town to draw the lines and he asked one hundred and fifty dollars. They then applied to another surveyor outside of Lafayette and he answered, that he needed to extra men to help him and a member of the council to show him lines. Also to properly survey the streets it would require a general survey of town; that he would have to start from Bayou Vermilion, and that such proceeding would cost more than the revenues of the town were then able to meet.
Laf. Adv. 9/19/1891.
Not Happy With Council Decision.
Much disappointment has been expressed at the action of the city council in rejecting the petition of citizens, asking that a proposition to levy a special tax to build a system of waterworks and a special tax in aid of the Lafayette High School be submitted to a vote of the property holders of the town. Lafayette is a live town, and these proposed measures would greatly advance her prosperity and the comfort of her citizens. Our council should do nothing to check this spirit of enterprise, but on the contrary should foster and encourage it. By all means the proposition should be submitted, and our citizens allowed to vote for or against both, of for one and against the other. We trust that, after calm and deliberate reflection, the council will see proper to reconsider their action in the premises.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Archbishop Janssens Performing Confirmation Rites.
Archbishop Janssens arrived in New Iberia Monday, and preached in St. Peter's church that night. From there he went to Loreauville, administering the rite of confirmation on the 17th. He reached Lafayette last night, and to-morrow will hold the rite of confirmation in St. John's Church. A large class of applicants is awaiting him here. As there will necessarily be a very large assemblage upon this occasion, it requested that visitors will not hitch their teams on the church square, as they would obstruct the procession, and in case of a stampede of the horses would endanger the lives of women and children. Our enterprising "Lafayette Brass Band" will make its maiden effort in public Sunday playing for the confirmation procession, and no doubt the boys will do themselves much credit. Upon leaving here the Archbishop holds confirmation at Breaux Bridge on the 22nd, Abbeville on the 24th, Opelousas on the 27th, Chataignier on the 28th and Washington on the 30th.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Moving to San Antonio. - Mr. C. Higginbotham, the barber, has sold out his shop and fixtures here to Mr. Jno. O. Mouton, and removed to San Antonio, Texas, where he will engage in the same line of business. While we regret to see Cornile leave, and the town lose a good and useful citizen, we trust he will do well and prosper in his new home. His family will follow him as soon as he makes arrangements there. Mr. Mouton has had the shop repainted and re-papered, and neatly fitted up inside, and added many of the most recent improvements. Mr. Olivier Landry, an experienced barber, will have charge of the shop, and patrons will always find prompt attention and every modern convenience.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Sugar Factory. - The persons who have interested themselves in the move of securing a central sugar factory for our parish are earnestly at work, and are on a fair way to be able to submit at no distant day, a tangible proposition to the people who feel disposed to furnish substantial aid to the undertaking. We have good reason to express the opinion that we will see within the next twelve months, a thoroughly equipped sugar factory of proper capacity, in full operation in our midst. Our farmers should already be preparing for the great demand that will be made on them for sugar cane. Those who have no cane growing now, should not hesitate to plant some; those who are already engaged in its culture should not fail to increase their plant as rapidly as possible. The demand should come from home, but even though it did not at first, neighboring factories will always be sure to buy up all there is for sale. Judging from present indications, however, we will soon be in a position to utilize in a factory of our own, all, and more too, of the cane grown in our parish, no matter how fast the acreage is increased. Let everybody plant cane, then, so as to insure a fair dividend on the capital invested in a factory, from the very beginning, which will mean plenty and prosperity to everybody concerned alike. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Making Improvements. - Messrs. Alfred and Arthur Hebert are making extensive improvements upon their store on Lincoln avenue, just East of the railroad crossing. When the work is completed they will have a large and attractive business house. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Dr. Salles Injured. - Dr. H. C. Salles is erecting for himself a handsome cottage on Julia Avenue, between the residences of Capt. L. F. Rigues and Albert Delahoussaye. Last Saturday, while inspecting the progress of his new building, he slipped and fell upon the floor sills, injuring himself severely. We are glad to be able to state that he is rapidly recovering.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Bank Finally Open. - On account of the stationary coming in two days late, the bank could not begin business until Wednesday of last week. We learn that everything is moving smoothly and encouragingly, the first day's deposits amounting to over $11,000. Several small loans have already been made, and the demand for money continues fair. There is little doubt but that the capital stock of our bank will have to be doubled within the next year, and there is no question but that most of the new stock will be eagerly taken up by the original shareholders. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Barber Higginbotham Leaves Laf. - Mr. C. Higginbotham, the barber, has sold out his shop and fixtures here to Mr. Jno. M. Mouton, and removed to San Antonio, Texas, where he will engage in the same line of business. While we regret to see Cornile leave, and the town lose a good and useful citizen, we trust he will do well and prosper in his new home. Mr. Mouton has had the shop repainted and re-papered, and neatly fitted up inside, and added many of the most recent improvements. Mr. Olivier Landry, an experienced barber, will have charge of the shop, and patrons will always find prompt attention and every modern convenience. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Lafayette Athletic Club. - Last Monday the Lafayette Athletic Club elected the following officers: F. Otto, President; Alfred Hebert, Vice-President; Jno. O. Mouton, Secretary and Treasurer; Eli McDaniel, Field Marshal (that is, manager of arrangements for glove contests and public exhibitions). The inaugural contest of the club, a glove fight to a finish between P. J. McAlister, of Tennessee, and Joe Jackson, of California, for a purse of $500.00, three to winner and two to loser, will take place in the new Club house, near the depot, to-morrow, 28th inst., at 4 o'clock p. m. Both men are heavy weights and in fine form and an interesting contest is assured. Admission $1.00. There will be ample police force on hand to keep order, and the exhibition will be conducted first-class in every respect. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Contract Awarded. - The contract for erecting the bank building was closed last Wednesday, with Mr. W. D. Southwell, of New Iberia, La. The front is to be constructed of galvanized iron and plate glass and when finished the structure will present quite an attractive appearance. Work will be commenced in a few days and the building is expected to be ready for occupancy about November 15th. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
Police Jury Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., Sept. 7th, 1891.
The Police Jury met this day in special session with the following members present: C. P. Alpha, J. G. St. Julien, C. C. Brown, R. C. Landry, A. D. Landry, A. A. Delhomme, O. Theriot and Ford Huffpauir.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The report of the jury of freeholders appointed to trace the public road from Lafayette to Duson was laid over, for amendment and correction.
The ordinance relative to the imposition of a road tax and the submission of the same to the electors at the next general election was again laid over.
The petition of Master Louis Olivier for appointment as beneficiary cadet to the State University and Agricultural and Mechanical college was again laid over.
By motion of A. D. Landry, the sum of $200.00 was appropriated for the purpose of erecting a public school house for white children in the Eighth ward, on such site as may be selected by the school board.
By motion of Mr. Huffpauir, the jury of freeholders previously appointed to lay off and trace a public road from Antoine Guidry's bridge on Isle des Cannes coulee and connecting with the Duson and Vermilion road was discharged, and the following jury appointed instead, to trace a public road starting from Antoine Guidry's bridge and running west to connect with the public road leading from Dr. M. L. Lyons' to the bridge on Bayou Queu Tortue; Ford Huffapuir, John R. Huffpauir, Alex. Huffpauir, Dr. A. O. Clark, Preston Huffpauir and Thompson Huffpauir.
Mr. Alpha appointed Cleophas Broussard road overseer for the 3rd ward, 2nd district, vice J. B. Preses resigned.
By motion it was resolved, that in future all accounts presented to the Police Jury for approval must be first endorsed by the member in whose ward the obligations originate and that the said accounts shall be filed on the desks of the respective members for their approval.
The sum of $25.00 each was granted unto the following indigents: Lucien Cormier, Mrs. Thos. Stutes, Grace Abadie.
Messrs. C. P. Alpha and R. C. Greig were appointed a committee to ascertain the amounts paid to the various justice and constables throughout the parish for criminal expenses.
Sheriff Broussard submitted the following statement of parish taxes collected for the year 1890:
State of Louisiana,
Parish of Lafayette.
Statement of Parish taxes collected for the year 1890, by I. A. Broussard, Sheriff, as shown by assessment roll.
Due by I. A. Broussard to Parish ... $16,088.58
By cash to par Treas. Sept. '90 ... $17.69 1/2
Oct. '90 ... $814.21 1/2
Nov. '90 ... $1,441.85
Dec. '90 ... $8,941.97
Jan. '91 for 1890 ... $2,411.23
Feb. '91 ... $192.52
Mch. '91 ... $109.32
Apr. '91 ... $129.03
May '91... $215.98
June '91 ... $376. 86 1/2
July ... $187.75
Aug. ... $209.03 1/2
Sept. 7 cash by check to treas. ... $71.51
Deduction as shown by delinquent list ... $679.23 1/2
$16,088.58.
On motion the following committee was appointed to examine the statement submitted, and also the Treasurer's looks and if found correct authorized to grant Sheriff Broussard a quietus for all taxes due the parish for the year 1890: Brown, A. A. Delhomme and A. D. Landry.
The Treasurer submitted the following statement:
To the President and members of the Police Jury, Parish of Lafayette.
Gentlemen - The following is a statement of the receipts and disbursements of parish funds since last report:
June 1, '91, to bal. on hand last report ... $863.00
June 16, To amt. from tax collt'r, taxes collected May ... $215.00
June 23, to amt. from J. S. Broussard, constable, sale 3 cows ... $12.47
July 22, amt. from tax collt'r taxes collected June ... $386.42
July 22, amt. from collt'r licenses for May and June ... $255.00
Aug. 6, amt. from collt'r of taxes collected in July ... $187.75
Aug. 6, amt. from collt'r of license collected in July ... $35.00
Sept. 1, amt. from collt'r taxes collected in Aug. $299.03 1/2
$2,254.63 1/2
June 1, By amt. to Sheriff holding court May term ... $80.00
June 16, by amt. tax collt'r (unreadable) on collection $10.79
(last digit of following figures unreadable)
July 22, ... $32.0(?)
Sept. 1, ... $11.1(?)
Sept. 1, ... 14.7(?)
Sept. 1, to date on app'd orders $1,723.8(?)
Sept 1, to date on jurors and witness certificates ... $31.3(?)
To balance on hand, $340.72 1/2.
Respectfully submitted,
WM. CLEGG, Parish Treasurer.
Lafayette, La., Sept. 7, 1891.
The account of Ludovic Billeaud $6(?) services in tracing the public road from Lafayette to Duson was rejected.
The following accounts were laid over:
I. A. Broussard, sheriff fees ... $230.(?)
B. Avant, swearing jury, etc. ... $10.(?)
Leon Plonsky, blankets ... $9.(?)
J. R. Huffpauir, constable fees ... $81.(?)
Alcide Broussard, constable fees ... $22.(?)
The following accounts were approved:
H. Theall, jury commissioner ... $10.(?)
Ben Avant ... $10.(?)
Alf. Hebert ... $10.(?)
V. E. Dupius ... $10.(?)
A. M. Martin ... $10.(?)
I. Durham, repairs to cisterns ... (?)
L. Lacoste & Bro, repairs road plow ... $15.(?)
J. G. Gardemal, jail fees ... $193.(?)
Gab. Gardemal, sheriff fees ... 2.(?)
N. Reaux, assessor's com. ... $59.(?)
P. D. Beraud, medical expert ... $1.(?)
Martell & Huffpauir, repairing plow, $1.(??)
Ford Huffpauir, bolts and iron ... $(?)
Jos. Plonsky, clothing for prisoners ... $(?)
R. S. Thomas, hauling lumber ... $(?)
W. D. Huff, repairing pump ... $(?)
W. J. Harson, justice fees ... $1(?)
I. Falk, justice fees ... $(?)
S. Greig, justice fees ... $(?)
Geo. Malagarie, constable fees ... $(?)
Dr. A Gladu, coroner's fees ... $(?)
Dr. A. Gladu, parish physician ... $(?)
There being no further business the Police Jury adjourned.
C. P. ALPHA, President.
R. C. GREIG, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/12/1891.
Complete City Council Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., Sept. 7th, 1891.
The City Council met this day in regular session, and the following members were present, to-wit: Wm. Campbell, Mayor, James Hannen, Numa Schoyot, J. E. Martin, Alfred Hebert, Felix Demanade, and L. F. Rigues. Absent: Gus. Lacoste.
The minutes of the last meeting was read and approved.
The following was read:
To the Hon. Mayor and City Council of LafayetteL
We, the undersigned committee, appointed to see parties owning land through which Garfield street was to pass, make this report: Having seen Mr. Leo Doucet, committee of one, appointed by preceding Council, for opening of said street, we hereby submit his answer as result of our investigation.
GUS LACOSTE, N. SCHAYOT, JAMES HANNEN.
To Hon. Mayor and Council of Lafayette:
Having been appointed a committee to open Garfield street. I make the following report: I find it impossible to open said street with amount appropriated for that purpose; the parties through said street opens refusing to sell their right of way for anything like reasonable amount.
For committee, LEO DOUCET.
Resolved that the report of the committee on street concerning the opening of Garfield street was indefinitely postponed.
The petition of persons and citizens of town asking that a part known as the Mills addition be properly ditched and drained as to let the water have its issue, was laid over, according to the report made from committee on streets, which read thus:
We the undersigned, committee appointed to investigate demand of residents of Lafayette street and other streets make this our report: We find that those streets have no ditches. That a ditch on each side of said street and also a ditch to receive water of street ditches would be necessary to properly drain that neighborhood; that there are fences of residents on said streets; that it would first required to move those fences from their present position before being able to dig ditches in their proper places. We got following informations concerning streets from Mr. Bailey, mayor of preceding council, and Messrs. Gerac and Pellerin, members of preceding council. They state that they had the matter in hand several times; that to put ditches in their proper places, they would first have to draw the right lines and also move the fences. They saw a surveyor in this town to draw the lines and he asked one hundred and fifty dollars. They then applied to another surveyor outside of Lafayette and he answered, that he needed to extra men to help him and member of the council to show him the lines. Also to properly survey the streets it would require a general survey of town; that he would have to start from Bayou Vermilion and that such proceeding would cost more than the revenues of the town were then able to meet.
GUS LACOSTE, N. SCHAYOT, JAMES HANNEN.
Resolved, That the report of the Finance Committee, concerning the Mayor, the Treasurer and the Collector's quarterly reports is hereby accepted.
Lafayette, La., Sept. 7th, 1891.
To the Hon. Mayor and Council of Lafayette, La. :
The undersigned Finance Committee having examined the books and reports of the Collector and Treasurer up to Aug. 31st, 1891, beg leave to make the following report, to-wit:
The Treasurer's book shows balance on hand as per last report, nine hundred and four dollars and twenty-six cts. $904.26 Amt. rec'd from R. C. Greig, for Hall rent ... $12.50.
Total ... $916.76
Warrants paid him No. 1 to 33, and cancelled by us, amt'g to five hundred and eighty-one dollars and sixty-four cts. ... $581.64
Balance on hand ... $334.12
Total ... $916.76
The Collector's report shows amt. delinquent tax roll 1889 ... $93.89
delinquent tax roll 1890 ... $151.18
Blank licenses issued by Treas. ... $230.00
97 dog collars ... $97.00
10 cows penalty collected 75 cts ... $7.50
Total ... $579.57
By amt. delinquent taxes '89 $88.62
By amt. delinquent taxes '90 $74.65
By amt. blank licenses on hand ... $185.00
By amt. bal. to be accounted for collector ... $231.30.
Total ... $579.57
The collector is entitled to six per cent or seven and 60/100 dollars on collection of taxes and licenses, amounting to one hundred and twenty-six and 80/100 dollars, and a warrant should be issued in his favor for said amount of $7.70/
We have also examined the books of the Mayor, up to date, Sept. 7th, '91, and find that he has collected twenty-five dollars for Bazars, and sixty-one dollars and seventy-five cents for fines, making the total of eighty-six dollars and seventy-five cents, which is to be accounted for by him.
Respectfully submitted,
F. DEMANADE, ALFRED HEBERT, J. E. MARTIN, Finance Committee.
Resolved, That the joint petition for levying special taxes for water works and High School be rejected, and that two separate and distinct petitions be presented to the Council.
The following was submitted and read:
To the Mayor and Council of Lafayette:
We members of the finance committee having investigated the finance of the Corporation, do not think that our present revenues will justify us in contracting with the Sun Vapor Light Co., or any other company for lights.
ALFRED HEBERT, F. DEMANADE, J. E. MARTIN, Committee.
Moved, That under the Finance committee report conceding the revenue of the corporation, it will not justify us in contracting with the Sun Vapor Light Co., or any other company for lights at present.
Resolved, That under the Finance committee report, concerning the revenue of the corporation, it will not justify us in contracting with the Sun Vapor Light Co., or any other company for lights at present.
Resolved, That any saddle horse, vehicles, wagon or cart, &c., found unhitched in the street, shall be taken up by the constable and be impounded, and the owner shall pay a fine of $8.50 for each offense.
The following accounts were approved:
Advertiser, pub. proceedings ... $37.50
A. Nevue, services as secty & treas. ... $37.50
C. H. Soloman, dy., constable and hauling dead dogs ... $43.75
J. G. Gardemal, dy. constable ... $40.00
J. G. Gardenal, feeding prisoners ... $17.29
E. Guidry, lighting street lamps ... $18.00
A. A. Micaud, marshal ... $50.00
H. L. Monnier, rep. bridges & plank walks ... $2.00
There being no further business the Council adjourned to next regular meeting.
WM. CAMPBELL, Mayor.
A. NEVUE, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/12/1891.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 9/19/1891.
A delightful shower early Wednesday night layed the dust, cooled the atmosphere and freshened vegetation; but it was only a shower. We need rain, and plenty of it. The crops have already suffered severely from the drought.
The Southern Pacific pay car arrived Wednesday morning, and a consequent smile spread over the features of our town.
Mr. Felix Demanade is making additions and improvements upon his store property on Vermilion street. His increasing business demands it.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of September 19th, 1874:
Mass Meeting of the People of the Parish of Lafayette.
Pursuant to a published call the people of the parish of Lafayette met at the Court House in Vermilionville on the 12th inst.
Ed. Eug. Mouton, Esq., called the meeting to order.
On motion of the same gentlemen, Nathan Foreman was elected President and John Clegg Secretary.
Upon being called, M. E. Girard, Esq., in a few pointed remarks stated the object of the meeting.
On motion of E. E. Mouton, Esq., the following resolution was unanimously adopted:
Resolved, That we the people of the parish of Lafayette, do heartily and emphatically approve and ratify the Resolutions adopted by the Baton Rouge State Convention, endorse its nominations, and pledge to its nominees our undivided support.
After the passing of the above resolution, Jos. A. Breaux, Esq., the nominee for Congress from the 3rd District, addressed the meeting in eloquent terms, treating the vital issues of the day in a masterly manner.
E. E. Mouton, Esq., being repeatedly called for, responded in his happiest style.
On motion it was Resolved that this meeting elect a Parish Executive Committee to be composed of one member from each ward and two from the Parish at large, and that the Committee be empowered to fill vacancies.
Resolved, That the Parish Executive Committee be empowered and requested to appoint five delegates to the District Convention to be held at Vermilionville on the 1st of October next, and cast the vote of the Parish in said Convention.
On motion the following gentlemen were elected members of the Parish Executive Committee:
1st Ward - Alfred Peck
2d Ward - John S. Whittington
3d Ward - Oneziphore Broussard
4th W'd - Joseph Boudreaux
5th W'd - Sidney Greig.
Parish at Large - Ed. Eug. Mouton and L. Philibert Revillon.
On motion the meeting was adjourned.
NATHAN FOREMAN, President.
JOHN CLEGG, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1891.
RAIN. -- On Wednesday and Thursday we were visited by copious rains, which although not beneficial to the cotton crop, were very acceptable in other ways, it having filled the ponds and coulees in our prairies, and replenished our cisterns with fresh water.
NEW GROCERY. -- Mr. B. A. Salles, has opened a new grocery adjoining his hotel, on Lafayette street in this place. His goods are fresh and cheap, and he hopes to obtain a liberal share of the public patronage. Give him a call.
EDMOND CAINE. - Notwithstanding the absence, on a business tour, of that popular merchant Edmond Caine, his business goes on with the regularity of clock work. Mr. Hebert, his courteous and accommodating agent assisted by Master Lucius Neveu, are to be found always at their post ready to wait upon all visitors. This store contains the largest stock of goods in this place, and for variety and cheapness it cannot be surpassed. The public generally are invited to call there and see for themselves. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1874.
Notice to Voters of Par. of Laf.
The undersigned Supervisor of Registration, gives notice to the voters of this Parish, that in compliance with Section 24 of the Registration Act, to better enable electors to register with, as little inconvenience as possible, etc. The Supervisor will repair to the following places on the following dates to-wit:
At Royville, on the 12th and 13th of October.
At Broussardville, on the 14th Oct.
At Neuville Broussard's store, the 15th.
At Nugent's, on the 16th.
At Cicmille Trahan's on the 17th.
J. N. JUDICE,
Supervisor of Registration.
Sept. 12, 1874. Parish of Lafayette.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1874.
City Council of Vermilionville.
Regular Session, Sept. 7th, 1874.
Present: A. Monnier, Mayor and Councilmen Revillon, Mouton, McBride and Bourges. Absent: Landry, Salles and Chargois.
The reading of the minutes of last meeting were dispensed with.
On motion it was resolved, That the Constable be an is hereby authorized to make a bridge over the big ditch, fronting on Washington Street.
The following accounts were presented and approved:
Alex. Billeaud, for repairing bridged, etc., $26.50 ; Dick, for making ditch, $2.50.
On motion the Council adjourned.
A. MONNIER, Mayor.
H. M. BAILEY, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1874.
Police Jury Proceedings.
Vermilionville, La., September 7, 1874.
Regular Session of the Police Jury - Parish of Lafayette.
Present: G. Dubau, Esq., President and Messrs. R. C. Landry, Jean Bernard, Rosemond LeBlanc and S. J. Montgomery.
On motion of Mr. R. C. Landry, the reading of the minutes of the previous meeting was dispensed with.
On motion of Mr. Jean Bernard, the District Attorney pro tem, was allowed to October 5, 1874 to make his report of delinquent taxpayers.
On motion of same, the special committee on cancellation of warrants was equality allowed to October 5, q874 to make their report.
The President informed the Police Jury that he had used all amicable means in his power to compel the State Tax Collector to furnish bond, but to no avail, upon which the District Attorney pro tem, enjoined the Tax Collector from the collection of the Parish Taxes until he furnish bond as required.
Whereupon Mr. Rosemond LeBlanc offered the following resolution : Resolved, That the resolution of this body passed July 13, 1874. directing the State Tax Collector to furnish bond before proceeding to the collection of the Parish Taxes be and the same is hereby repealed, and that the Tax Collector is hereby ordered to proceed with the collection of said taxes.
Which said resolution of Mr. Rosemond LeBlanc was lost by the following vote :
Yea: R. C. Landry, Rosemond LeBlanc.
Nay: J. Bernard, S. J. Montgomery, G. Dubau.
There being a tie, the President gave his casting vote against the passage of said resolution.
On motion of Mr. G. Dubau, Resolved, That the members of the Police Jury from the 4th and 5th wards suggest the names of freeholders to compose Jury to lay out road in 5th ward.
When on motion of Mr. R. C. Landry, John R. Creighton, Perry Moses, Clairville T. Patin, Marcel Melancon, Alexandre Meaux and Lessin Guidry, are appointed a Jury of freeholders to trace and lay out a road from Broussardville or Cote Gelee P. O. to the line of St. Martin Parish, to be designated as the road from Broussardville or Cote Gelee P. O. to New Iberia, and to assess such damage as may be sustained.
On motion of Mr. G. Dubau, Resolved, That the committee on Public Works are authorized to make a half moon near Pin Hook Bridge on Bayou Vermilion to facilitate the Steamboats in turning, provided the cost does not exceed three hundred dollars, and make their report on October 5, 1874.
On motion of Mr. S. J. Montgomery, the following accounts were allowed, and that warrants issue for the same :
Levi Columbus, costs crim. case ... $1.1o
Isan Chadwell, costs crim. case ... $6.50
Ben Avant, costs crim. case ... $6.50
Isam S. Brown, costs crim. case ... $3.20
Isam S. Brown, costs crim. case ... $3.20
Isam S. Brown, costs crim. case ... $3.20
Mrs. I. S. Brown, costs crim. case ... $3.20
Clemile Trahan, juror's fee, transferred ... $5.00
Eloi Vincent, fee as grand juror ... $7.00
Lessin Abshire, witness crim. case ... $6.40
S. Landry, witness fees, transferred ... $3.80
H. Eastin, Sheriff, costs crim. cases ... $153.20
Delia Lockley, witness fees ... $3.2o
Mme. Devigne Guidry ... $1.90
Wm. Stutes ... $2.20
John Comeau, ... $3.50
Joseph Navarre, ... $5.50
R. F. Grier, juror's fees ... $8.10
Syphroyen Landry, grand juror, trans. ... $6.50
H. M. Bailey, Justice of the peace ... $5.75
Plonsky & Rogers, wit. fees trans. ... $2.20
Camille Roos, witness fees ... $3.50
Wm. Stutes, witness fees ... $8.20
Treville Guidry, witness fees ... $2.2o
Therence Toups, grand juror ... $7.50
Alcide Judice, talis juror ... $1.30
Alcide Judice, witness fees ... $1.30
Edouard Fabre, ... $4.00
Joseph Guidry, ... $4.50
Alex O. Guidry, ... $1.60
Geneus Boudreaux, ... $1.50
Geneus Boudreaux, ... $1.60
Alex Billaud, ... $1.10
Rene Gagneaux, ... $1.1o
Edgar Mouton, ... $1.10
Austin, witness fees ... $3.50
Edgar Mouton, witness fees transferred ... $4.20
L. Levy, witness fees ... $3.00
L. Levy, ... $3.00
Sevigne Guidry, ... $2.2o
Joseph N. Guidry, ... $3.50
L. Levy, ... $1.1o
G. C. Salles, ... $1.10
Numa Chachere, ... $6.00
Henry Anding, ... $4.00
L. Levy, witness fees transferred ... $2.60
Plonsky & Rogers, ... $2.60
Plonsky & Rogers, ... $1.50
Mathias Arenas, ... $6.00
Joseph N. Guidry, ... $3.50
Joseph Guidry, ... $4.50
Edmond Landry, Juror de Talibus ... $2.30
Joseph Pothier, Juror ... $5.20
W. S. McBride, witness fee ... $4.o0
J. O. Girouard, Jailor ... $53.00
Placide Hebert, witness ... $3.oo
Ben Babino, witness ... $3.50
Eusebe Thibodeaux, witness ... $4.50
Sarrazin Trahan, witness ... $5.80
Joseph N. Guidry, witness ... $3.50
Joseph Louviere, witness ... $3.00
Plonsky Rogers, witness, transferred ... $5.60
L. Levy, witness, transferred ... $18.00
John Green, witness, transferred ... $1.50
Alexander Daniel, witness, transferred ... $1.50
Therence Celestin, witness, transferred ... $1.5o
Rosemond Benoit, witness, transferred ... $1.60
L. F. Rigues, witness transferred ... $1.1o
Francis Hebert, Juror ... $5.30
Clemile Trahan, witness, transferred ... $5.80
Damoville Bernard, witness, transferred ... $3.80
A. S. Johnston, witness, transferred ... $2.20
Sarrazin Trahan, witness transferred ... $2.20
Sazzarin Trahan, Juror, transferred ... $4.50
H. M. Bailey, Justice of the Peace ... $11.25
Leopold Hirsch, Constable ... $10.20
Marie, witness ... $1.30
H. Eastin, Sheriff, attending court ... $15.00
Ambroise Mouton, work on public road ... $25.00
Edouard, witness ... $1.40
Sidney Greig, witness ... $3.00
Alex Breaux, Talis Juror ... $2.40
And the following accounts were rejected:
J. F. Knox, J. P. St. Landry ... $13.50
S. M. Peters, Constable St.Landry ... $13.50
A. J. Moss, Parish Judge cost crim. ... $57.75.
On motion of Mr. Rosemond Leblanc, Police Jury adjourned to Oct. 5th, 1874.
(Signed.) G. DUBAU, President.
Attest, C. DEBAILLON, Clerk pro tem.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/12/1874.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of September 19th, 1906:
SPEED LAWS DEMANDED.
With the possession of an automobile comes the temptation to make fast time, and unfortunately there are some who yield to the temptation and scorch the roads of the country and the streets of the town, turn corners sharply and, in general, show an utter disregard for results to others.
This has caused, wherever automobiles have been introduced, stringent laws for regulating their speed, and their advent into this town and parish demands, as a matter of prevention, that speed laws be enacted by the City Council and Police Jury. Lafayette Advertiser 9/19/1906.
LAGNIAPPE:
A Tour of the Lafayette Area.
Mr. Editor: Last week, in one of Major V's improvised vehicles and driving one of his fast road elephants, at early dawn, Lord B. and myself left historic Lafayette amply provisioned for a good day's work. Our itinerary was ably mapped out the day previous by Lord B. The road to Ridge, which was our first station, gladdened the optic with panoramas majestic in their picturesqueness. Within a few miles of Ridge we met our enterprising townsmen, the quiet M. and the clever L., who had been looking up the rice fields, showing and explaining to their many clients their harvesters' facile work, and offering their excellent machinery. L, who never goes unprepared, pulled on us (it was noontime, for we are not as thoughtful as he is) one of those traditional brown honest jugs, which so oft has weakened the eve of our forefathers. Ours fairly danced. We accepted the pull, and pulled along at it; which must have caused the god of the wet cause to be under many obligations. We exchanged a Cuba, and parting bowed. Ridge is a pretty spot, but not a soul was at home, except very small ones, which Lord B. actually caressed, kissed and licked. It was, according to our grinding organs, lunch time, and without "much a' do about nothing," on the steps of the urbane Dr. C's office, under the shades of the seculaire oaks, with a glorious breeze fanning us, we spread our rustic banquet. Byron's "honest dog" was there and was often tipped a bone. A bottle of sparkling Santa Clara was uncorked, which, after partaking of a few libations, caused Lord B.'s wit to flow unsurpassed. We had some coffee, the god's ambrosial drink. Dr. C. returned at last from a visit in the neighborhood. After some pleasant chat, we prepared to take our leave. It is so nice to meet clever folks that you don't know hardly how to take leave of them. We had to go, but hoped that we would soon meet again.
Across the H.'s rice fields to Duson! The country is rolling and very beautiful; here and there 'tis dotted with mottes of healthy timber, each cradling a cozy white cottage. The prairie all the way is decked with fat herds of browsing bovines. Duson is a small white station on the Southern Pacific railroad. You find there are a few stores, a post office, and very sociable people. For want of ice Lord B. made no speech. He announced our departure by imitating an antiquated locomotive whistle, which nowadays engineers would scorn to notice. We moved on to Scott, just one minute behind time.
The country surrounding Duson and Scott is not blessed with a very good crop, but the farmers have grit, and hope next year to succeed better. Scott is a surprisingly nice town. We had the pleasure of meeting the postmaster. He is a fine gentleman. We trust it will be our good fortune to meet him often.
Onward to Carencro, and not far from the village we treated our "Rosenante" to a cool drink and a bath in Buzzard lake. Carencro is on the Alexandria branch of the S. P. Railroad. We find there much improvement going on. The latest is a fine structure for a cotton gin, with all modern appliances. It will be completed for the ginning of this year's crop. There we were made happy by meeting the railroad agent, Mr. D. Lord B., always overflowing with wit, would now and then open his joker, which caused many ripplings. After exchange of salutations, we boarded our machine and headed home. All along our route we noticed all of the familiar birds which inhabit our Southern clime; birds of all plumages - the billy snipe, the scary quail, the jolly lark, the round pheasant, the lazy jay, the gay mocking bird, the pape tricolore, the fat papabotte - all but the festive "drummer bird." Had he bargained for more showers he might have had better pickings. But he will come again; so don't cast away your traps.
It is a glorious country, Mr. Editor, and fairly invites immigration. On all of God's green earth, it is one of the fairest spots, and in the near future we hope to see all of that section decked with happy and blessed homes.
Plus tard,
PIERRE COEUR.
Laf. Adv. 9/19/1891.
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