AN ANCIENT RUSSIAN.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XXIX, Issue 7733, 1 March 1909, Page 4

AN ANCIENT RUSSIAN.

An account of a Russian who lias reached the age of 136 without using any of the patent medicines which seem to form the chief diet of our centenarians who write testimonials for newspaper advertising, is given from data in . the Medizinische Wochenschrift of St. Petersburg by the Hospital, which says: "We need hardly, say that our informant bears a reputation for the strictest integrity and the highest scientific accuracy. Nevertheless, wo must disclaim any responsibility for the astonishing account which follows: Andrew Schmidt was born on -September 5, 1772, and served in the Revel. Regiment for many years, taking part in the historic campaign against Napoleon. In 1798 he accompanied Suvarof's brigade across the Alps, and later on he took part in the skirmishes which the army of pursuit waged against the French troops retreating from Moscow. His military career is probably unique, as he remained on active service until he was eighty-six years of age, his final campaign being the Crimea 'War. In 1858 he was pensioned, and since then he has lived quietly, carrying the weight of his years well. He is able to go about, and talks and hears well. During the last few years, however, his sight has been gradually failing, and he has suffered from anthritic pains. To his medical interviewer h& declares that he has never indulged in alcoholic drinks, and never • smoked. His diet is by no means restricted, and even at present, when he is 136 years of age, he eats his meals with a hearty appetite."