EARLY DAYS OF THE KLONDYKE GOLD RUSH.

Cromwell Argus, Volume XXXVII, Issue 1987, 7 May 1906, Page 7

EARLY DAYS OF THE KLONDYKE GOLD RUSH.

'’The Windsor Maga/.iiic” tells a story of a coup made bv a Klondike desperado, nicknamed "Soapy.” A clergyman came one day to Soapy and solicited a subscription for the local hospital. At first the scamp was dumbstruck at the men* idea of being asked to help in anything good and respect abb*. The parson proceeded a trifle nervously to point out what a great help his name at the bead of the list would be, seeing that no one for very shame could refuse to give, if even Soapy Smith had contributed. "Well,” after an instant’s thought, said Soapy, ”1 guess I’ll do you the

1 turn at once. Tut me dowui for fifty dollars, and when you’ve been round, come back and tell me how* much good its done yon.” Delighted beyond measure at bis unexpected success, the minister departed, and did a hard but successful day’s work among the returned miners ami others. Faithfully to his word lie came back to tell Soapy of his good fortune. “Well, what luck, parson ?” queried Soapy. “Six thousand dollars. Not a had day’s work, thanks to you, cli ?” “No, not so bad ; just hand it over.” And quick as lightening Soapy’s revolver covered the head of the man of peace. This time it was the parson's turn to be dumbstruck. There was no alternative ; and ail his pleading and expostulation proving useless, the six thousand dollars were transferred to Soapy’s pockets. “(food day. You’re the best col- | lector 1 ever bad, parson,” said the cool villain, as very slut mefaeedly the preacher passed out of the doorway, a sadder, and possibly a wiser, j man.