VALUE OF FAME

Evening Star, Issue 17766, 14 September 1921, Page 7

VALUE OF FAME

WILLIAM J. BRYAN UNRECOGNISED. William Jennings Bryan, the goldenmouthed orator, had delivered a lecture at Doha von, Wis., and was making n fast automobile jump to Waukegan, a. Chicago suburb, where a Chautauqua audience awaited him (says a message in American papers). His driver had boon doing a little better than fifty an hour, when be ) slowed down for a curve at Antioch, and I made the acquaintance of Marshal J. B, Oongdon. “ Where are you going, and who are. you?" was the introduction. “ I’m going to Waukegan. I’m William J. Bryan, and must deliver a lecture in Waukegan in just a few minutes.” “Live in Waukegan? What’s your business?" as the little notebook appeared. “I’m a writer on subjects of political economy. I’ve been in politics forty-ono years. I have been a candidate for President on several occasions, and have served as Secretary of State. In Lincoln, Neb., where I live. I am fairly well known as a law-abiding citizen.” “'Hint may go in Lincoln. But I never heard of you, Mr O’Brien, You will have to tell the judge about it.” At the Village Hall a Democratic policeman recognised the Commoner immediately, and after apologies Bryan sped on his way. There was no further adventure until Zion City was reached, when a motor cycle drove the machine to the curb. " I’m William Jennings Bryan,” said Mr Bryan to a request for his name. " Glad, to know you." said the, motor cycle cop. " I’m Woodrow Wilson, and that man in unifonh across the street is Robert K. Leo." The Commoner for once in his life had no answer ready, and the party proceeded to police headquarters. The polio© chief took one look mid said : "Let mo shako tho hand that raised grape juico to its present high state.” Mr Bryan complied’, and sped on to Waukegan.