The Westford Wardsman, December, 1908

Saturday, December 5, 1908

About Town. The W.C.T.U. met on Tuesday afternoon at the new home of Mrs. Emory J. Whitney in the center of the town, sixteen being present, and chose committees to plan and execute the work of the year. Preparations were made for donating a barrel of farm products to the Frances Willard home in Boston, Mrs. H. G. Osgood to be the committee in charge. This organization endorsed the movement for school banks, as an antidote against expenditure along the line of “I want a stick of candy.” To encourage youth to be on the alert for the beautiful and hopeful, Mrs. McMaster and Mrs. Carkin were chosen a committee to solicit flowers. If this organization succeeds in encouraging improvement in any of the many directions of life, they will elevate and dignify values.

The H. E. Fletcher company on Oak hill are still the busy concern they have the reputation for being, and have been running a steam shovel for the past few weeks, clearing the surface of dirt and pebbles to enlarge the surface area of the quarry. The steam shovel is leased of the Boston and Maine railroad. The daily expense to operate this shovel, including a gang of men to level at the dump, is much more likely to exceed one hundred dollars than to fall five cents below that amount.

The annual banquet of the Congregational church will be held in the vestry on Wednesday evening, Dec. 16. There will be toasts for the man and toasts and turkey for the frame that holds the man. The toasts for the man will be locally original, humorous, edifying. If you believe in the value of laughter, come and get what belongs to you. If this don’t fetch, then come and sit right down at this table of toast and turkey, and don’t get up until you can’t. If the temptation this presents does not invite thee, then music, both instrumental and chin, which “hath charms to soothe the savage breast,” [1] will be brought to bear.

Berton N. Cole, who thrusts coal into the fire on all extra freights on the Stony Brook road, bought fifteen cents’ worth of electricity in Lowell, where he resides, which had velocity enough to enable him to be a visitor in town last Sunday. He was the guest of George H. Hartford. Mr. Cole will be remembered as having lived here several years ago. As fireman on freights for several years he has handled coal without gloves, and is now prepared to handle the throttle valve.

A bank in Montreal is searching for values in the celebrated Brookside park near Graniteville. Have patience, dear bank. Just at present its sidewalks are under water and its streets are in the air. Besides, it is not the season for its other values to be on exhibition, frogs, mosquitoes and water snakes having gone into winter quarters; besides, just at present there are more owners than land. Wonder who will pop up next and lay claim to ownership. It is about time for the bank of England to be laying claim to this paper park.

Last Sunday at the Unitarian church Rev. and Mrs. B. H. Bailey and A. J. Abbot were chosen delegates to represent the parish at the installation of Rev. Edwin Evans at the Unitarian church at Ayer, Friday evening, Dec. 4.

John Adams Taylor was one of the eight seniors at the Emerson college of oratory who recently appeared in a public recital in Chickering hall, Boston.

Hear ye, hear ye, for this will be the last “hear ye,” for the Westford-West Chelmsford picked-up, mixed-up dramatic, emphatic combination will appear in both Westford and Chelmsford, same night, same hall, same hour, Wednesday evening, Dec. 9, Marshall’s hall. There will be forty actors. They will be admitted first, then if the hall isn’t full another person can come in.

A new waiting station has been built at Taylor’s crossing, at the junction of Stony Brook and Lowell roads. The architects and contractors were James H. O’Brien and John A. Taylor, aided by the traveling public and most everybody else who thought they knew enough about woodwork designing to drive a nail. This has been built since the public declaration has been issued toward discontinuance. Some folks go right along just as though they couldn’t hear or wouldn’t obey injunctions.

By the will of the late Samuel M. Hutchins $2000 was left to the Chelmsford st. Baptist church, Lowell; $2000 to the Baptist church, South Chelmsford, and $1000 to the Congregational church, Westford.

The funeral of Samuel M. Hutchins, who died in Lowell last week Wednesday, took place from the Chelmsford st. Baptist church in that city, Friday afternoon. Revs. A. E. Kenyon and G. E. Tompkinson officiated. The former very appropriately referred to the ready response and liberality of the deceased toward church and charity work. The church quartet added fitness to the occasion with appropriate music. The bearers were E. L. Gray, Joseph Thorne, Cyrus Hamilton and William Roberts. Burial was in Fairview cemetery, Westford.

Mr. Hutchins was nearly sixty-seven years old and a native of Carlisle. Besides a widow he leaves one brother, Miles Hutchins, and one sister, Mrs. Wallace Woodward, both of Dorchester. He was for many years a resident of Westford, having married Miss Ann L. Snow for his first wife, living at the Snow homestead where he was a successful farmer, making the raising of hay a specialty. For many years, by authority of the selectmen, he had charge of Fairview cemetery. He was a veteran of the civil war and member of the Veterans’ association of Westford. To this patriotic organization he was loyal at all times, and on memorial Sunday and decoration day he was especially loyal to “Attention, company,” by always being in the marching ranks. He was possessed with sociability and generosity that was never on the corner of the street for display, and shunned housetop advertisement, but contented itself to follow the ancient advice to conduct, “Let not thy right hand know what thy left hand doeth.” [Matthew 6:3b]

The Electric Road. The old and familiar saying, “a clap of thunder out of a clear sky,” startled the inhabitants of Westford when they read in the Westford Wardsman under Ayer news last week the declaration of an attempt to discontinue the running of the branch line from Brookside to Westford, of the Lowell and Fitchburg electric railway. It is safe to say that the effect of disclosing this proposition was to make everyone affected by the proposed change adopt the fighting motto of Andrew Jackson, “Not by the eternal.”

In the communication the history of the building of this road was given in part, but some important facts bearing upon the cost of constructing this road were omitted, which have a bearing upon determining whether the people of Westford are sinners above all others on the line of the road in causing a load of debt for the company to lug. Why not tell the public that when Mr. Farnum sold out his project to A. L. Register & Co., the said Farnum was put in head general to superintend the construction of the road, at a salary based on the cost of constructing the road. Are the people of Westford to be made to suffer because a premium was offered to have the road cost more than was necessary? Why not tell the public that the town of Ayer had long wanted a new street laid out, part of the way through an expensive ledge; that they compelled the Lowell and Fitchburg to build this street or get out of town, when in equity the town should have borne half the expense? Must the people of Westford have the rails ripped up under their feet that have been laid there by a legal agreement, because the town of Ayer was too smart for somebody and thereby increased the cost of construction? Why not tell the public that in the town of Groton the road was built on the rocky and expensive side of the highway, and could have been built for less than half on the opposite side. Must the people of Westford walk two and one-half miles to Brookside to take the cars, because somebody didn’t have judgment to construct on the comparatively inexpensive side of the highway? Must the people of Westford be singled out for deprivation, because A. L. Register & Co. are such a sharp firm that when they bought out Farnum and his legal agreements they didn’t know that a spur track was to be built to Westford? Funny, isn’t it, besides being queer.

Now then to increase the revenues by making a six-cent fare on the entire line would be a gross injustice to the traveling public from Ayer to North Chelmsford. Of course it would, it would come pretty near being inhuman. But to saddle all the financial mismanagement and extravagance in building this road upon the legal claims of Westford to car service and let all others free from sharing this burden by a six-cent fare, is equity. Of course it is. Everybody knows equity. “Ye do strain at a gnat and swallow a camel.” [Matthew 23:24b]

Center. Mr. and Mrs. Henry M. Wright and Livingston have spent several days at N. H. Wright’s recently, including Thanksgiving.

Mrs. Daniel Atwood and the Misses Atwood drove to Chelmsford and enjoyed Thanksgiving day with the Elliot Atwood’s. Notwithstanding her eighty-seven years, Mrs. Atwood enjoyed the outing. Aside from deafness she enjoys quite uniformly comfortable health.

Mrs. Lizzie Hamlin and daughters spent Thanksgiving with relatives in Gardner; the Julian Camerons with relatives in Brookline and Principal and Mrs. Woodward with relatives near Boston.

A welcome Thanksgiving guest came into the home of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick A. Fisher of Lowell on that day, when a little daughter [Lois] was born to them [Nov. 26 in Lowell].

Members of the Congregational church are sorry to hear of the death of Samuel M. Hutchins at his home in Lowell. During his residence in Westford he was a regular attendant of this church and a good friend of it. He gave the handsome memorial window in memory of his first wife [Louisa Ann Snow, d. Dec. 25, 1892 in Westford] and other gifts of his to this church were the sum of one hundred dollars and the substantial clock in the auditorium.

Announcement cards have been received by Westford friends of the marriage of Mrs. Myrtle Snow Upton to Louis Young Clark at Saranac Lake, N.Y., on Thanksgiving day. They will reside there, where Mr. Clark is in business. Mrs. Clark’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred L. Snow, have a summer home in the north part of the town and this event will be of interest to their many friend here.

Members of the Tadmuck club will bear in mind the change of date from Dec. 8, as given in the calendar, to Dec. 15, at the Congregational vestry. Some fine outside talent has been secured for this musicale and the members may expect a real treat.

Chicken pox has been and is prevalent among the children in town.

Sunday morning being near the three-hundredth anniversary of the birth of Milton, [2] Mr. Marshall will take for the subject of his sermon John Milton the Puritan.

Francis, the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John P. Wright, has scarlet fever. Fortunately it is a mild case. She is quarantined with a trained nurse.

Miss Ruth Fisher has been confined to her home this week with tonsillitis. Mrs. Charles L. Hildreth has been substituting at the school for her, revving her successful teaching days.

The boys’ club of Mr. Marshall’s, “The knights of King Arthur,” held a successful meeting at the vestry Tuesday afternoon. There were fifteen present and five new members were initiated into the mysteries of the order. At present the membership numbers eighteen.

The Ladies’ Missionary society and the weekly prayer meeting held a joint service at the vestry Thursday afternoon and Mr. Marshall gave an interesting talk about Martin Luther.

The doings of some of our dumb creatures is sometimes as interesting to many as those of humankind who are credited with the monopoly of reasoning power. Alfred O. Davis, on the Leland road, has a cat which he found one day this fall with a family of kittens. They were about a week old and in the nest in the hay the mother cat had gathered three baby grey squirrels, and also coiled up was a good-sized snake, which was badly mutilated on the back, but still alive. Mr. Davis disposed of the snake and not wishing to keep the kittens, he disposed of them, thinking the squirrels could go, but the cat instead of killing them for game, as she undoubtedly would have done for her kittens had she had them, promptly adopted them and nourished and cared for them in true maternal cat fashion. They have grown very fat and sleek and tame and are an interesting sight to see. If young kittens are spry, young squirrels are more so, and many times their foster mother finds them quite a handful with their antics. Mr. Davis has petted them a great deal and always having been in captivity they are very tame, not running away when they have opportunity. One of their various stunts is to run up their master’s coat and drop nuts down his collar. He enjoys his pets, but expects any day some neighboring cat will not wish to adopt them, but make a meal of them instead.

Mrs. John C. Abbott [sic], with a mother heart so big that she is interested in the welfare of all the children, has been busy for some time arranging the details of a plan that was tried for the first time Monday, of providing each noon hot chocolate or soup for children at the new school building, many who come from long distances in the school barges and are away from home a good many hours and with the cold lunches brought from home, supplemented with the hot chocolate or soup which will be alternated each day.

The soup will be varied with rice, macaroni, barley, croutons, etc., to make it attractive, each child provides his own cup and spoon. Mrs. Samuel Hamlin prepares this nourishment and it is transferred piping hot at the noon recess. About sixty children are served and Mrs. Abbott’s thoughtful kindness and generosity is very genuinely appreciated by all concerned.

Graniteville. Mr. and Mrs. John Loftus and family, who have made their home in this village for many years, removed all their belongings to Lowell on last Saturday, where they will make their home in the future. The Loftus family are well and favorably known and have many friends here who wish them every success in their new home. Mr. Loftus is at present confined to St. John’s hospital, Lowell, with a serious stomach trouble.

Miss Helen Johnson of Waltham, a former resident of this village, visited many of her old friends here last week.

Daniel W. Harrington is now confined to his home with an attack of throat trouble. His position as butter and cheese salesman is being temporarily filled by Edward Riney.

A daughter [Alice C.] was born to Mr. and Mrs. T. [Timothy] A. Riney on Monday, Nov. 20.

The ladies’ aid society of the Methodist church met with Mrs. W. O. Hawkes on Thursday afternoon, when plans were discussed for the coming fair.

Many people from this village will attend the dramatic performance to be given by [the] Village Improvement society in West Chelmsford, Wednesday evening, Dec. 9.

The residents of Westford center are very much disturbed over the street railway question, for the management of the Lowell and Fitchburg company have practically decided to discontinue running that part of the branch line from Brookside to Westford hill, owing to lack of patronage.

Timothy D. Riney is confined to his home in this village with injuries to his back and foot, sustained while attending to his work a few days ago. He is now able to get about with the assistance of crutches, but it will be several days before he can resume his usual employment.

Business still continues to be good in the mills and shops here, and everything points to a very prosperous winter.

Forge. A case of scarlet fever has appeared in our village, a child of a Polish family on Central st. It is hoped it will not become an epidemic.

Charles Flanagan is recovering and will soon be about again.

Miss Alice Prescott has returned to her school in Ashland, N.H., having come home for Thanksgiving with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Prescott.

Mrs. Barney Bryant and daughter have come from Newport, Me., to visit her mother and sister, Mrs. George Jackson.

John Sullivan had a finger broken last week while attending to his duties as fireman for Abbot & Co.

Miss Hazel Comey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Comey, had a very severe attack of heart trouble at school, last week Tuesday, but prompt attendance saved her from a long illness.

The ladies’ circle met with Mrs. W. E. Parsons Thursday afternoon.

[1] This phrase is from William Congreve’s (1670-1729) 1697 play “The Mourning Bride,” which begins (Act 1 Scene 1): 

     Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast,

     To soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.

[2] The English poet John Milton was born Dec. 9, 1608, in London and died there Nov. 8, 1674. He is best known for his poem Paradise Lost.

Saturday, December 12, 1908

About Town. Our esteemed and genial townsman, John Greig, had a paralytic shock at the breakfast hour last week Friday. Although in the seventies, he has a good, rugged Scotch constitution, and this with the fact that Dr. Wells is in attendance is a good basis for recovery. Mr. Greig will be remembered as the superintendent of the Abbot worsted mills at Graniteville for twenty-five years, when he resigned to superintend a farm on man st. [124 Main St.], opposite Fairview cemetery. As farmer he has always been up in the early morning twilight march, with economical labor-saving improvements, and improved stock and sanitary conditions. The latest word relating to his illness is decidedly encouraging for recovery.

The first farmers’ institute of the season by the Middlesex north will be held at the town hall, Chelmsford, Wednesday, Dec. 16. The address both forenoon and afternoon will be given by Dr. Twitchell, editor of the Maine Farmer. The morning address will be on “Fruit farming, where the dollars are.” In the afternoon the address will be, “A message for every man.” The exercises will be interspersed with music and select readings. Dinner at noon by Chelmsford grange, and after dinner audible meditations by those experienced in this line of edification.

Rev. Seth Walker and family have been recent guests at the old homestead of the Walkers on Main st. Charles E. Walker has returned from a ten days’ vacation with his niece, Mrs. Herbert Coffin of Berwick, Me., and at the home of his nephew, Fred Littlefield of Farmington, N.H.

Among the crowded list of entertainments and holidays for the public to participate in, remember and save room for the annual banquet of the Congregational church, to be given in the vestry Wednesday evening, Dec. 16. Music, several kinds; turkey supper, one kind. Talking before, at, and after supper. As a favor Rev. P. G. Favor of Littleton is expected to favor the occasion with a few favorable thoughts.

Among the bequests of the late Samuel H. [M.] Hutchins not before made public are $1000 each to the old ladies’ home and old gentlemen’s home in Lowell, the home for little wanderers, Boston, and the bowery mission in New York. He left an estate valued at $80,000.

The Village Improvement society of Westford-Chelmsford gave the play, “The village postoffice,” Wednesday evening, before an audience that made Marshall’s hall look small. The net proceeds, while not yet announced, are enough to make it certain that the village green will not be suffered to become a faded remembrance of the past. The electric road also got something cheerful to relieve the distresses of too much road for too little travel. The Chelmsford ladies’ orchestra furnished music and it was the real lively heel and toe music that almost made some folks wish they could dance. Icecream for those who desired, and a jolly, good time for everybody.

The selectmen and officials of the Lowell and Fitchburg railway held a conference at the selectmen’s rooms, last week Friday evening, relative to the proposal to discontinue running the cars from Brookside to Westford. The town’s counsel, Edward Fisher, was also present and elicited a promise from the railroad that they would give thirty days’ notice of any attempted discontinuance, and that at a future meeting they would furnish facts and figures relative to existing conditions.

Burials. The body of the late Lucy M. D. [B.] Abbott, who died in Groton last week Wednesday, was brought to town on Monday and laid beside kindred dust in Fairview cemetery. She will be remembered by the older residents of Westford as the daughter of Rev. Ephraim Abbott, at one time pastor of the Unitarian church [1831-36 & 1841-45] and also preceptor at Westford academy [1828-37]. His venerable personality will long be remembered as he walked these streets, and as educator impressed respect and veneration into the schools and community. Miss Abbott like her father was of a literary turn of mind. She had no taste for housetop demonstration to catch the applause of the crowd, no sham prayers on the street corners “to be seen of men” [Matthew 23:5]. Duty enough, applause enough, to live and walk “in the spirit” [Galatians 5:25].

Mrs. Martha J. Wilkins, who died at her home in Milford, N.H., last week Friday, was a native of Westford, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alpheus Reed, her home being the farm now owned by Angus McDonald. She was a member of the Unitarian church of Milford, where she has resided for the past thirteen years. While in town she was an attendant at the Unitarian church. The funeral was from her home in Milford on Tuesday. The remains were brought to town Wednesday and services held at the Unitarian church, Rev. B. H. Bailey officiating. Burial was in west cemetery, where rest the loved ones of earlier days. She was a pupil at our public schools and Westford academy, and was familiarly known as Jennie Reed. She was fifty-three years old. A singular coincidence was the death of her aunt, Mrs. Amanda J. Howe of Lowell, on the same day.

Narrow Escape. The same old early winter experience, thin ice, venturesome boy, and the annual demonstrations. This time the scene is laid near Westford station. Stony Brook furnishes many feet of water and less than a few inches of ice, and Edward Perkins, the twelve-year-old son of William Perkins, furnished the dare to venture and took last Saturday afternoon to try it with skates on. The usual result followed. There was too little ice for too much boy, and too much water for too little boy. His cries for help were heard by Mrs. Joseph Moran, who soon rallied George Philbrick, Hugo Page and Elmer Kimball, who succeeded in rescuing him with a plank and boat, but not until he had sunk to the bottom twice, fortunately coming up at the place where the ice broke. He was in an exhausted condition and was taken to the home of Mrs. Moran and medical aid summoned. While everyone is thankful for the rescue, it is sad that the wisest lesson learned will be a repetition of the accident in this or other seasons.

Center. A number of property holders have installed the new water service in their homes this fall. The severe drouth has demonstrated the great value of this pure and abundant supply.

Misses Emma and Cora Flagg are visiting in Boston before the holidays.

Harry L. Nesmith with a gang of six or eight helpers are busy removing the browntail moths from the trees in [the] center of the town.

L. W. Wheeler has been attending the meetings of the state grange at Worcester this week.

Miss Ruth Fisher, who has been detained at home for more than a week with tonsillitis, returned to her school duties on Wednesday.

The Edward M. Abbot hose company held their regular monthly meeting and drill at the hose house Monday evening. A fine oyster supper was served, in charge of O. R. Spaulding, Wm. L. Woods and Alec Fisher.

Grange. Westford grange held its annual election of officers at its regular meeting Thursday evening of last week. A good attendance was present and much interest manifested. The officers follow:

Master, A. H. Sutherland; overseer, H. L. Nesmith; lecturer, E. G. Boynton; chaplain, Rev. B. H. Bailey; steward, Lester Prescott; gate-keeper, John Feeney, jr.; treasurer, J. P. Wright; secretary, Mrs. F. C. Wright; asst. steward, W. R. Taylor; lady assistant, Mary E. Moran; Pomona, Etta MacDougal; Ceres, Grace Bennett; Flora, Ruth Miller; ex. com. 3 yrs., S. H. Balch.

The grange voted to send Mr. and Mrs. F. C. Wright as delegates to state grange at Worcester; also, to send the lecturer-elect, E. G. Boynton, to the lecturers’ conference of the state grange. Full a dozen from this grange attended Pomona grange at Lowell Friday.

Forge. The annual Christmas tree for the Sunday school of St. Andrew’s mission will be held at the mission house on Tuesday evening, Dec. 15. Mr. Richards and Mr. Roosevelt of Groton School will have charge of the affair. The children, under the direction of Sarah Precious and Theresa Lowther, are rehearsing for a concert to be given that evening. The members of Groton School who are interested in the Sunday school here leave for their homes for the holidays, so our Christmas tree is a little earlier than usual.

Advent services were held at the mission Wednesday evening. Rev. Geo. S. Pyne of Marlboro was the speaker.

The ladies’ circle met with Mrs. Fred A. Sweatt Thursday afternoon. The president of the circle, Mrs. Burnett, is not yet able to be with them.

Victor Gurney, a former resident of the village, was calling on old friends last Sunday. He left here six years ago for Colorado Springs, where he holds a responsible position in a sanitarium. He is visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Gurney of Lowell, and will return west after the holidays.

Loyal Self-Help lodge, I.O.O.F., M.U., will hold their annual dance in Abbot’s hall, Friday evening, Dec. 18.

The members of John Edwards hose company, No. 1, held their first annual ball in Abbot’s hall, last week Friday evening, which was largely attended, many being present from adjoining towns. The following committee were in charge: Francis Lowther, general manager; Elmer Nutting, floor director; aids, members of the company. Music by Westford grange orchestra, five pieces. Refreshments were served. The proceeds will be used for the benefit of the company.

James H. Brown, the well-known violinist, has accepted a position in South Barre, and has left to assume his duties.

Entertainment. The “Carnival of the flowers” was sung by the children of the Cameron school in Abbot’s hall, last week Friday evening. Notwithstanding the dull aspect of the night, there was a large and appreciative audience. Many were present from Graniteville, Westford and West Chelmsford. The children were dressed to represent the different flowers, and took their respective parts very creditably. Miss Marion Blodgett was queen and bore her honors well. Miss Lillian Hunt, a little lady of five summers, was dressed in white with emblems of strawberry blossoms, sang two verses alone and received deserved applause. Nearly all the school children took part in the chorus. E. N. C. Barnes, musical director, and Miss E. Marion Sweatt, accompanist, gave much time to drilling the little folks, and were also assisted by the teachers—Misses Ward, Pyne, Blaisdell and Gainey, who gave many hours outside the schoolroom to helping make the affair a success, as indeed it was. The readings of Miss Lowe and singing by Mr. Barnes were received with much pleasure by a very attentive audience.

Graniteville. Owing to the inclement weather on Friday night of last week the Fortnightly club of North Westford did not have the debate and entertainment that was scheduled to take place on that date. Weather permitting the same program, as was originally planned, will take place Friday evening, Dec. 18.

Miss Maybelle Moran of this village has recently resigned from the office staff of the Abbot Worsted Co., here, and the position is now being filled by Miss Katherine C. Ward of Forge Village.

Cameron circle, C.F. of A., held a very interesting meeting in its rooms on last Tuesday evening. Considerable business of importance was transacted. Three applications were received and two candidates initiated into membership of the order. After the business of the meeting was dispensed a social hour was enjoyed, during which dancing was indulged in with excellent music furnished by Miss Ruth Furbush, piano; Omer LeDuc, violin. This affair was well attended, many being present from out of town.

Miss Etta May Sheehan, Miss Alice C. Sheehan and Miss Sarah Teague of Lowell have been recent visitors here.

The Ladies’ Aid society of the M.E. church held a Christmas sale and entertainment in the church vestry on Friday afternoon and evening. Full account of this important event will be given later.

Several young men of this village have got the walking rage at the present time, and have taken some long tramps over the road during the past week. Those beautiful moonlight nights are very much to their liking.

The millpond is now frozen over and some of the more reckless of the small boys have skated over the surface during the past week. One little fellow came near getting drowned at Westford depot last Saturday and this should serve as a warning for the rest to keep off the ponds until the ice gets stronger.

To the Editor: I felt amused as I read the statement of your Westford correspondent. He discusses a phase of the railroad situation that is entirely irrelevant. What difference does it make whether the road cost much or little when it has never paid anything on the investment. Whether it cost too much is a matter entirely with the bondholders; until they receive something besides assessments for their investment, your correspondent need not complain.

As to the “new street” in Ayer, the railroad company had the option of using the old street and erecting two bridges or building the new street. It chose the latter. The contract was open and above board, and in that respect was entirely different from the Westford situation. In that case the Westford people kept still until the main line was ready to operate and then filed their protest. They did well to adopt that course, for in no other way could they have gotten the road. No association of sensible men would be so foolish as to invest in such a ridiculous proposition.

Your correspondent derides the idea of “equity” to Forge Village, Graniteville and West Chelmsford. However, he does not attempt to deny the fact that an unnecessary burden is being put upon the people of these villages to help out Westford Center. Will he tell me where the “equity” comes in, requiring the mill operatives of Forge Village and Graniteville to pay the increased rate of fares for their occasional outings that he and the other residents of Westford Center may have a trolley road to use when their autos are out of repair.

The Westford spirit seems to be as strong as ever. It said the road would pay. It selfishly demanded that thousands of dollars be thrown away to demonstrate that error. Not content with that, it now insists that the railroad company and people of other localities shall contribute to its convenience. If it were a fact that there was but one course open to the railroad by which it might increase its revenue, perhaps the people of Ayer and others on the main line might gracefully accept the situation and submit to an advance in fares, but as there is another alternative, I imagine they will not do so.

“Let every tub stand on its own bottom.” [1]

“Equity.”

[1] This old proverb dates back to at least 1564.

Saturday, December 19, 1908

Center. Mr. and Mrs. Austin H. Foss, who are spending the winter in Florida, send pleasant accounts to their Westford neighbors and friends of their experiences. They first went to Jacksonville, but are now settled in Tampa, where they have taken a cottage and are housekeeping.

Mrs. Sherman H. Fletcher, who has been sick with a serious cold, is somewhat better and gaining strength slowly.

At the C.E. service on Sunday evening the subject was “Books that delight and strengthen,” Prov. 4:1-9. [1] Miss Mary P. Bunce was the leader. As an experienced librarian she gave many helpful ideas on the subject. Among books mentioned by the leader and others as helpful were the bible, Pilgrim’s progress, Thomas à Kempis, Imitation of Christ, Tennyson’s works and Drummond’s Natural law in the spiritual world. [2]

Miss Caroline S. Foye, the reader who was so much enjoyed at the hall last week Thursday evening, was an old schoolmate of Rev. C. P. Marshall, and she was most hospitably entertained at the pleasant parsonage.

Entertainment. The third in the series of the grange entertainment course took place at the town hall last week Thursday evening, when a good-sized audience assembled to listen to Miss Carolyn S. Foye, dramatic reader and entertainer, assisted by Miss Marguerite Pearson, violinist, and Mrs. Minnie Del Castillo, pianist. They formed a trio of charming entertainers and were most cordially appreciated by their audience. Miss Foye is a reader of much experience and ability. Her monologue and stories of children were particularly pleasing. Miss Pearson and Mrs. Del Castillo fully sustained their part of the program with their violin and piano selections. Following is the pleasing program rendered:

Fantasia impromptu, Mrs. Minnie Del Castillo; “Them oven,” “The prodigal son,” “Who’s afraid,” Miss Carolyn S. Foye; Cavatina, Miss Margaret Pearson; “The lie,” “The star pupil,” “Noah’s ark,” Miss Foye; selections from Faust, Miss Pearson; “The country postmistress,” “Entertaining the minister,” “Grandma’s fan,” Miss Foye; second mazurka, by Godard, Mrs. Del Castillo.

The meeting of the Tadmuck club which was postponed from the regular date for one week to accommodate the soloists who were to take part, took place in the vestry of the Congregational church Tuesday afternoon. There was a large attendance of members and guests and it was one of the most successful gatherings in the annals of the club. The program committee, with the wise intention of appealing to varying tastes, had planned for a musical afternoon which was in charge of the misses Gertrude and Julia Fletcher, and they had arranged a program that was most thoroughly enjoyed by the audience. Miss Gertrude Fletcher, soprano, and Miss Julia Fletcher, pianist, were assisted by Mrs. Charles P. Marshall, pianist of the club; Mrs. Chas. E. Burns, member of the Woman’s club at Lowell, contralto soloist; Miss Annie L. Melindy of Nashua, N.H., pianist, and Alfred G. Ellstrom of Fitchburg, cellist. Every number was so excellent that it would be hard to discriminate in favor of any of the artists, and the program as follows gives an idea of its scope and standard of excellence:

Military march, Mrs. Marshall and Miss Fletcher; romance in G, Alfred G. Ellstrom; “Echos,” Mrs. Burns and Miss Fletcher; Gavotte in D minor, “Les abilles,” Miss Melindy; “Break! Break! Break!” Mrs. Burns; Berceuse from Jocelyn, Mr. Ellstrop; “Liebestraum,” Miss Melindy; “Beauty eyes,” Mrs. Burns; Ave Maria, Mr. Ellstrom.

At the close of the program a delightful social hour was enjoyed. The rooms were prettily decorated for the occasion with Christmas greens, suitable to the holiday season.

The next meeting, Dec. 22, is of especial interest, when Mrs. Ellen Richards of Boston will be the speaker of the afternoon. Mrs. Richards has many friends in Westford, and even if it is in the midst of the busy Christmas season a good audience will greet her in all probability. The subject of her address has not been definitely stated, but preference has been expressed to her for a talk on the chemistry of foods.

Banquet. The annual church banquet of the Congregational church took place Wednesday at the vestry. These events have taken place for a number of consecutive years, and those having the care of the social events on the church calendar for the year who may have had doubts as to the advisability of the outline of the same plane for this year, had these doubts effectually dispelled, for repetition did not spoil the happy spontaneity of the feast of good things, the cordial fellowship, the good banquet and the list of good speakers.

Miss May Atwood, the church organist, presided at the organ while people began to gather at the appointed hour, 6:30, and very soon after that hour fully 115 sat down at the long tables attractively set, with a delicious menu of roast turkey and chicken and all its accompaniments. The decorations were in harmony with the holiday season, in green and red, with evergreen and red berries, Christmas wreaths and ferns.

After this part of the program had been faithfully attended to, with its accompaniment of merry sociability, the toast master, John P. Wright, called to order and in his happiest vein with the keen wit that never grows stale, introduced some old friends with fresh messages, as well as a number of new speakers. The program was not too long, each speaker keeping within his allotted time, and the audience had no opportunity to get tired, or to get indigestion either, if many a hearty laugh was an antidote.

The beloved pastor of the church, Rev. C. P. Marshall, came first with a message from “among the hills,” [Psalms 104:10] reminiscent of a trip with two congenial friends the past summer in the White mountains, weaving in the lessons of strength and beauty of the everlasting hills. Miss Blanche Waller, who is a senior at Bates college, was one of the new speakers. With charming enthusiasm she outlined the four eventful years of college life, conveying to her hearers some portion of the spirit of college life.

Charles O. Prescott was next introduced with “The spirit of rural improvement” for a subject. He sketched most interestingly the aims of the Massachusetts Civic league, followed by a résumé of the history of village improvement in our own town, closing with a strong appeal for the revival of the old Village Improvement association.

A song by E. G. Boynton, “Just someone,” was pleasantly interspersed, after which Principal Woodward of the academy was introduced and spoke with much wit and wisdom on “Athletics and their relation to education.” Miss Eva Pyne was to have spoken on “The confessions of a school teacher,” but was unable to be present.

The next speaker was Rev. P. G. Favor of Littleton, whose message was “Church fellowship.” Mr. and Mrs. Favor were very welcome guests, and while they are newcomers in our neighboring town of Littleton, Mr. Favor in his greetings appeared to have imbibed the record of friendliness that our people have for those in our sister town, and his message was full of genuineness and frank sincerity.

Mr. Boynton then gave another solo, “Down in the deep let me sleep till I die,” after which came the last and best and youngest speaker of the evening, Rev. B. H. Bailey, whose message was “Among the hills.” Mr. Bailey was at his best and brought the very essence of a life of noble ideals to his hearers. At the close of his message the audience rose to their feet and sang with much earnestness, “Blest be the tie that binds,” after which came social greetings and the gradual dispersing of the gathering.

The committee in charge of the program was John A. Taylor and Mr. Marshall; those in charge of the supper, Mmes. Taylor, Knight, Banister, Tallant, Greig and Miss L. B. Atwood; decorations, Misses May and C. S. Atwood.

About Town. Last week Tuesday an early morning freight from Ayer had occasion to side-track at Brookside on the H. E. Fletcher track. After returning to the main line they forgot to close the switch and with full steam on ran onto the side-track in the direction of the H. E. Fletcher stone quarry. No damage done, but a lively time in reversing the momentum of a heavy freight. The next morning an early freight side-tracked for water on the Fletcher track, leaving part of the train on the main line. The Bixby early passenger had occasion to travel that way and thought that if it was water they were looking for a bump and a whiz in the direction of the detached engine would be full as likely to strike water. They struck engine and water.

John Greig, reported ill last week, is able to sit up and is fast gaining in the direction of old-time vigor and activities.

The Unitarian society will have its usual appropriate Christmas service on Sunday morning, Dec. 20, but a departure will be ventured after the morning service, when the children of the Sunday school will receive their Christmas greetings and presents. The church will be decorated by loyal, thoughtful hands in memory of the occasion.

The new hotel-station at the corner of Stony Brook and Lowell roads is completed and ready for ninety boarders. It is eight feel long, five feet wide, one roof, two windows, a floor and a door. For a further bill of accommodations apply to John A. Taylor, sexton, janitor and manager; Wm. R. Taylor, assistant.

The premonitions that we are to have an annual town meeting in March are in sight, and four candidates are reported as readily willing to squeeze into the chair of selectman.

Mrs. S. L. Taylor and John A. Taylor took a sleighride on wheels to Littleton on Monday evening to attend the drama, “The Cameron Pride,” [3] given at town hall. Whether there were any more from Westford they were unable to report, for the play was so captivating and the actors so grandly good that they had no rubber neck side visions of anybody or anything else.

One hundred dollars were realized from the recent “Village postoffice” demonstration at Marshall’s town line hall, Westford corner.

H. G. Osgood has sold his apples to Lowell parties, and James H. O’Brien, Frank Banister and John Flynn have sold to the reliable Conant of Littleton.

George Albert Drew, formerly of this town and student at the academy, drew a prize Dec. 11, William Brooks Drew.

Michael McGlinchey, the accommodating station agent at Brookside, is having his summer vacation, and George McComber of North Chelmsford is substituting for him. He is the eldest son of Joseph McComber, section foreman between North Chelmsford and Westford.

Graniteville. Scarlet fever has once more made its appearance here. The little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sleep, of Third st., is now being afflicted with the troublesome disease. The Sleep family recently moved here from Acton. Every precaution is being taken and it is hoped that the disease will spread no farther.

Beginning Sunday, Dec. 20, and until further notice, mass will be celebrated in St. Catherine’s church at 9:45 o’clock instead of 8:45, which has been the custom during the past few months.

Miss Rebecca LeDuc, the well-known vocalist of this village, assisted on the musical program at the entertainment and whist party given in aid of the Notre Dame de Lourdes church in Lowell last week Friday evening. She was accompanied on the piano by Miss Ruth Furbush. Others who attended from here were Miss Grace Ledwith, Miss Lena Healy, Omer LeDuc, Dora LeDuc and Miss Mary J. Sullivan.

Christmas Sale. The Ladies’ Aid society of the M.E. church held its annual Christmas sale and entertainment in the church vestry on last week Friday afternoon and evening and in spite of the inclement weather there was a goodly number in attendance. Although the weather was disagreeable, the interior of the church vestry presented a much pleasanter scene by contrast, the numerous colored lights and varied decorations imparting a Christmas cheer and giving it a cozy homelike appearance that was very pleasing to the eye.

All the different booths and tables did a good business, but owing to other attractions on Friday night the management thought it advisable to continue the sale Saturday afternoon and evening, which was done with equally good success.

The entertainment, as given on Friday night, though short, was of high order and consisted of the following members:

Piano duet, Mrs. C. H. Wright, Miss Edith Wright; vocal solo, “The hymns of the old church choir,” Mrs. S. R. Wright; reading, “The library,” James Whitcomb Riley, and “Jane Jones,” Ben King, John A. Taylor; vocal solo, “Far away,” Mrs. Armond [Armand]; reading, selections from Kipling, John A. Taylor.

The program was concluded with a very laughable farce, entitled: “A picked-up dinner,” presented by the following members of the Westford grange: John Thompson, S. L. Taylor, Mrs. John Thompson, Mrs. S. R. Wright, Bridget McCue, Mrs. W. L. Woods.

This sketch proved highly pleasing and made a decided hit with the audience, the part of “Biddy,” as given by Mrs. Woods, being particularly pleasing. As to the others that took part in the program all did finely in their respective parts, special mention being made of John A. Taylor, whose readings were a rare treat. His selections from Kipling were given with a vim and dash that showed that the reader thoroughly understood his subject, and “Gunga Din” caught the audience from the very start.

The decorations and those that assisted at the different tables were as follows:

Fancy table, decorated in red and green, Miss Edith Wright, chairman; Miss Della Blodgett, Miss Engla Mattson, Miss Cora Shattuck, Miss Lizzie Turner, Miss Bertha McLenna, Miss Anna Murray, Miss Emma Murray.

Candy table, Miss Emily Prinn, chairman; Mrs. J. B. Carmichael, colors pink and white.

Useful table, Mrs. William Welch, chairman; Mrs. O. A. Nelson, Mrs. George Gilson, Mrs. Fred Provost, Mrs. Wm. Stiles, Mrs. Henry Smith, colors red and green decorated with various Christmas bells.

Mystery table, colors red and white, Mrs. William Beebe and Mrs. Everett Woods.

Pastry table, colors white and green, Mrs. M. H. Wright, chairman; Mrs. C. G. Sargent, Mrs. H. N. Fletcher, Mrs. Percy Blood, Miss Mary Sargent.

Vegetable table, J. Everett Woods, chairman; Mrs. C. H. Wright, Miss Lucy Lambert, Andrew Johnson, Fred R. Blodgett.

Ice cream table, Mrs. Lucy Blood, chairman; Mrs. C. H. Robinson, Mrs. Joe Wall, Mrs. W. O. Hawkes, Mrs. W. G. Blodgett, J. B. Carmichael, Percy Blood.

Entertainment com., Mrs. C. H. Wright; door com., William Beebe, Willie Gilson.

The Ladies’ Aid society wish to thank all those that helped in any way toward the success of their affair.

Forge. Truly the trend of progression is advancing rapidly in our little village. Very recently three powerful gasoline arc lights have been placed in position on the main street. The first one is at the main entrance to Abbot Co.’s mills and not only lights Forge Village but Pond st. also. No. 2 will light that dangerous turn by the barn of Abbot Co., and will assist the people in dodging hydrants. No. 3 will do duty in the square and the Boston and Maine railroad crossing. The lights will be very much appreciated by the people who are obliged to be out during the evening. Many families have had street lights at their own expense for some time.

Alvin Bennett and sisters, Mrs. Reed and Mrs. Drake, have just returned from a visit with their brother’s family, John Bennett of Worcester.

The annual Christmas tree at mission house was much enjoyed Tuesday evening. The little folks did themselves much credit and the number that went away with their many remembrances showed their appreciation of the kindness of the men of Groton School. Ever since the opening of the Episcopal Sabbath school Christmas has been remembered by those who have the interests of this school at heart. Two and sometimes more have kindly given their time and services for the good and pleasure of our children and a good work has been done. Mr. Richards and Mr. Roosevelt have been the teachers this year. Mr. and Mrs. John Carmichael entertained them before the exercises.

The supper given by the John Edwards hose company was in charge of the following ladies: Mrs. R. D. Prescott, Mrs. Elmer Nutting, Mrs. Wadleigh, Mrs. Carmichael, Florence Wadleigh and Rachel Cherry. Richard D. Prescott had charge of arrangements. After all expenses were paid quite a sum was turned into the treasury. The dance was a success in every way.

Advent-tide services are held at the mission house every Wednesday evening.

Mrs. John Connell is at a Brookline hospital, where she will undergo an operation. Mrs. Connell has been out of health for some time.

Daniel Connell has gone to Titusville, Florida, for the winter. His sister, Miss Emma, will start for Pinehurst, N.C., the first of January.

The members of the school committee visited the Cameron school Wednesday and complimented the teachers on the time made in the fire drill performed for their inspection. Not only was quick time made, but order prevailed throughout the drill. The time was thirty-five seconds.

The ladies’ circle met with Mrs. W. E. Parsons last Thursday afternoon.

Mrs. Jones of Worcester is visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Burnett.

Miss Lillian Baker was presented with a new upright piano by her parents for Christmas.

[1]

The relevant verses are Proverbs 4:1, 5 & 7:

1: Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.

5: Get wisdom, get understanding: Forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.

7: Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

[2] John Bunyan (1628-1688) published The Pilgrim’s Progress in 1678 and 1684. Thomas à Kempis (1379/80-1471) published the Imitation of Christ anonymously in 1413. Alfred Lord Tennyson (1809-1892) was Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom 1850-1896. Henry Drummond (1851-1897) published Natural Law in the Spiritual World in 1883.

[3] The Cameron Pride; or, Purified by Suffering was a dime novel written by Mrs. Mary Jane (Tavener) Holmes (1825-1907) in 1867. It was apparently adapted as a play and has no relationship to the Cameron family of Westford. The novel was republished in 2007 and is also available online.

Saturday, December 26, 1908

The Electrics. There are those who try hard to believe that the town is playing a bunco [sic] game on the Lowell and Fitchburg electric railroad. Not to go back too far let us see who has played the bunco game. The Lowell and Fitchburg agreed to build the main line through the center of the town, and there would be no spurs to discontinue. But the town let them off with the promise that they would do better for the town—go down the Groton road and build two spur lines, one from Graniteville to Westford center, and one from the Groton road to Brookside, both to connect with the main line. Then comes forward said company, saying they could not afford to build two spurs and operate them, and the town let them off with the promise that they would build a branch line to connect with the main line on the Groton road and run by way of West Chelmsford and Brookside to Westford center. Now comes forward said company and informs the town through the newspapers that they must be relieved of this agreement. Nor is this all that the town has relieved of legal obligation. The excise tax due the town from this company has never been enforced and has practically been thrown into the waste basket. The lighting of the streets, another agreement, has also been keeping company with the excise tax in the waste basket. We should be quite willing to leave it to anyone who has brains enough to be an inmate of a lunatic asylum to be judge as to who has the bunco on them, the town or the company.

In reply to the communication in the last Wardsman signed “Equity,” I can only say that I was amused at the thought that I was the means of amusing someone else. It is one of those cases in which I “Builded better than I knew,” even if I was not relevant. Now I do not know for a certainty who “Equity” is who thus signs his name, but the tone of the communication leads me to believe that it is an official of the Lowell and Fitchburg railroad who has personal investments in it. If it is the new superintendent, we have only met him once at the farm playground yard, corner of Stony Brook and Lowell roads, and if ever we thought we were facing a gentleman of courtesy and honesty this was one of the occasions; nor have we changed our opinion from anything said, done or written since.

But this is not a question of personalities, bur of financial debility and the proper tonic to apply. “Equity” charges me with not being relevant. Now perhaps I can better retort than refute by charging up his statements, part of them at least, by the measuring intelligence at this end of affairs as “not knowing what he is writing about.” Now suppose we call it tit for tat and let it go at that. I will only add that the dictionary definition of relevant is lending aid, pertinent, and I was of the opinion then and am now that the extravagant debt incurred in building the road lent aid and increased the friction of the running expenses of the road.

But let that pass. The real question before the public and the Lowell and Fitchburg is the running expenses of the road, and I will take as a text to start off with the one furnished me by “Equity,” “Let every tub stand on its own bottom.” In the language of the court, “So say we all of us.” But how many tubs are there? Let us read the franchise and find out, without going into any of the legal crossroad boundaries mentioned. “Beginning at the Groton line, thence running to Forge Village, thence to Graniteville, thence to the Chelmsford town line, thence to West Chelmsford, thence to Brookside, thence to Westford.” Here we have, then, one line, one system, one source of income, one running expense, and the term spur line does not occur in the franchise. With these facts, can anyone make out more than one tub? But “Equity” not only ignores the fact that there is but one line, but to make out a case he begins to divide the line into sled-lengths. Nor does he measure the whole distance of his sled-length, but says from Westford center to Brookside does not pay expenses. Why not measure full length to North Chelmsford, the distance that most everyone travels. If accounts must be balanced on a basis of main line and spur line, why divide the spur line into fragments of rail-lengths, as it were. Is it not a unit, or are there half a dozen tubs here and each must set on its own bottom as an individual affair to balance accounts by.

“Equity” charges the people of Westford with keeping quiet until after the main line was built and then coming forward and demanding a line to the center of the town. This statement is most emphatically contrary to the facts. There is but one franchise from Groton line to Westford center, one date of granting it; the same hearings at town hall open to all the public from the north pole to the tropics, and the people of Westford have not been lying in ambush until the line was built from Ayer to North Chelmsford and then demanding an independent line to Westford for their own selfish use when their automobiles are not serviceable, of which there are only four. It is not true that the people of Westford are so independently selfish that by a false, quiet sneak in ambush they demanded a lien of road, giving assurances that it would pay, and quite willing that someone should lose several thousand dollars yearly in experimenting.

But as bearing upon the running expenses of the road, “Equity” says that two course are open—make a raise in fares, or discontinue from Westford to Brookside, and that the former would be an injustice to the mill hands in the valley to help out the rich autoists and others at Westford. Without taking time or space to argue which of these two courses would work the greater injustice to the community, I am willing to leave it to the reading and traveling public as to which is the greater injustice, a raise in fares to all, or a discontinuance of car service to a portion of the community who live on the line of this franchise.

The amount of travel is not increased any by (to some extent) inferior equipment and inexperienced help. When a fuse blows out and the passengers are left in the woods to become motors themselves, and the motorman admits he doesn’t know what to do; when passengers arrive at Brookside and change cars for Westford, and find that that trip is to be cut out and that, too, without being notified by the conductor; when passengers at Westford wait in the cold for the early morning car to connect at Brookside for Boston, and find too often that it is like the Irishman, “just soon enough to be too late,” then these things are a friction against the prosperity of the road. That the company are doing the best they can is probably true, and the reason why they can’t render better service is because they are anchored to that original and extravagant debt, which after all this fuss of feathers comes right back to roost on the running expenses, even if the roosting place isn’t relevant. T.

About Town. An important book [1] will soon be published, under the direction of Mrs. George T. Day, who has for several years been collecting names and dates of former teachers and scholars of Westford academy from its incorporation up to and including the centennial year. This is a grand and necessary work, as showing the influence of this ancient corporation gathered for purposes of equipping life with the influence of the whole man, and not the limited and partial. This publication will reveal the far-reaching influence of lives that were kindled into a flame at Westford academy, besides opening up a vast labyrinth of forgotten memories, anecdotes, reminiscences and history.

The annual meeting of the board of trustees of Westford academy was held Saturday, Dec. 12, at the residence of Hon. Chas. S. Hamlin in Boston. The following trustees were present:

Hon. John D. Long of Hingham, Hon. C. S. Hamlin of Boston, J. Henry Fletcher of Belmont, Henry M. Wright of Quincy, Geo. T. Day, Rev. B. H. Bailey, A. J. Abbot, Hon. H. E. Fletcher W. C. Wright, C. O. Prescott, J. C. Abbot, Capt. S. H. Fletcher of Westford.

At the business meeting the following officers were elected:

Geo. T. Day, pres.; Hon. H. E. Fletcher, vice-pres.; Capt. S. H. Fletcher, sec.; A. J. Abbot, treas.; Geo. T. Day, aud.; G. T. Day, Capt. S. H. Fletcher, J. C. Abbot, standing committee; Rev. E. A. Horton, A. J. Abbot, J. A. Cameron, committee on teachers; A. J. Abbot, J. Adams Bartlett, J. H. Fletcher, Hon. Chas. J. Hamlin, committee on loans and finances.

This annual gathering of loyal lives in behalf of the principles for which Westford academy was founded, just recall the old-time association of similar gatherings and other social surroundings like the bright, cheery days when ex-Gov. Long was teacher, as well as the more recent years with the scholarly Frost and others. But the present board of trustees do not allow any faltering of the purposes which the olden trustees and others so practically exemplified, and to keep the music of the olden time up to the jingle and quick-step march of modern ideas, the trustees also took a timely quick step march looking toward the purchase of a new piano.

The treasurer’s report shows expenditures of $3103.83; received from the town, $2200 for high school purposes, leaving a balance of $903.82 that the academy pays toward supporting the school. By this arrangement and the showing of this report, those who wish may see that the town is saving practically an even thousand dollars a year in marinating a high school; and yet, some want to have the town put its hands in its trousers pocket and fumble around among that other $25,000 that is borrowed for school building purposes, and find $1000 a year to support an independent school. When we all get to that point of docility, to say nothing about imbecility, that we love to be taxed for the sake of being taxed, and get nothing for it, then we shall all vote for this scheme. March meeting, it is true, will soon be here, but from the sky-rockets in the air it doesn’t look as though anyone would be docile on that occasion.

Center. The woman’s alliance of the Unitarian church held an interesting and well attended meeting at the home of Mrs. Geo. T. Day last week Thursday. The 300th anniversary of the birth of [John] Milton was the theme of the afternoon. Mrs. B. H. Bailey, president of the alliance, read a paper on his life, and Mr. Bailey read extracts from his writings. Last Saturday afternoon the members and some others, about twenty-five in all, were invited to Lowell by Mrs. Donald Cameron, and a very delightful social occasion was enjoyed. Progressive whist, music and a delightfully served tea made a pleasant afternoon. The color scheme of the table was in Christmas colors of bright red and green, with a beautiful centerpiece of red carnations. Mrs. Cameron’s and Mrs. Fiske’s hospitality will long be remembered by the members as one of the pleasant social occasions of the organization.

Mrs. Nellie E. Carkin has been sick and under the doctor’s care this week with an attack of grippe.

George E. Gould recently sold at auction what is known as the True A. Bean cottage. The purchaser was Horace Gould and the price paid $600.

Miss Katherine Kennelly is a Christmas guest at Dea. and Mrs. A. S. Wright’s.

Archie Hartford, who is teaching in Washington, Conn., is at home for Christmas vacation.

The names of Mrs. C. P. Marshall and Mrs. Emory J. Whitney were inadvertently omitted from the list of the capable committee in charge of the banquet last week at the Congregational church.

Miss Lucy B. Raddin, the former popular teacher at Minot’s corner, has been visiting Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Knight, at whose home she boarded during her stay in town.

Helpful, appropriate and inspiring were the Christmas services at the Congregational church last Sunday. The auditorium had been trimmed simply and effectively with evergreen. Mr. Marshall preached an excellent sermon to a large and attentive congregation, and a full choir rendered good music. Sermon, anthems, responses, prayer and all centered about the joy to the world of the birth of the Christ. In the evening Mr. Marshall conducted the meeting, subject, “Why was the king born?”

With his characteristic helpfulness, Mr. Marshall, with Mrs. Marshall, in the midst of a busy week, went down to the east village and conducted another pleasant neighborhood “sing” Tuesday evening. Gospel hymns and other music was enjoyed, with pleasant sociability and the strengthening of the bonds of church fellowship.

The schools closed last week Friday for two weeks’ vacation. On the last afternoon appropriate Christmas exercises were carried out in the several rooms.

Mrs. A. W. Hartford entertained the Thimble club at her pretty, cosey [sic] new home Friday afternoon of last week.

Rev. and Mrs. B. H. Bailey are enjoying the holidays with relatives in Boston and vicinity.

A beautiful set of views of the towns of Milton and Lancaster is on exhibition at the library. It is a dignified collection of some of the natural and architectural beauties of these typical New England towns.

Miss Edith Bicknell from South Royalston, Edith A. Wright from Ayer, Edna Ferguson from South Dartmouth, and Stella Hartford from Hempstead, N.H., are enjoying the Christmas vacation at home from their teaching in these towns.

Wesley R. Wells, who is a student at the University of Vermont, is enjoying his Christmas vacation at his brother’s, Dr. O. V. Wells.

Warren E. Carkin and J. Willard Fletcher are just completing a twelve weeks’ term of jury duty.

Grange. Down on the program for the last meeting of the old year in grange was a Christmas entertainment, but owing to the fact that it has departed from its usual custom of only taking in candidates at the April and October meetings and admitted this fall a second class of nine candidates, Thursday evening of last week they were initiated in the third and fourth degrees. The third degree was conferred by the ladies’ degree staff in full form, and the fourth degree by the regular officers. A pretty bit of ceremony during the evening, which was a surprise to most of those present, was the presentation in a few well-chosen words by Mrs. Lillian Lumbert, Flora of the ladies’ staff, of two handsome bouquets, one to W. M. Wright, who has done such faithful work as director, and one to Mrs. E. G. Boynton for her constant and capable services as pianist.

These tokens of appreciation were fittingly acknowledged by Mr. Wright and Mr. Boynton in behalf of Mrs. Boynton, whose eloquence is able to express itself at the keyboard instead of in words.

Mrs. C. A. Reid, the lecturer, had prepared a good paper expressing many excellent thoughts and embodying a report of the year’s work together. She regretted that ill health had deterred her from the fullest development of plans for the year’s work. The grange orchestra, which steadily improves, gave several selections which were heartily appreciated. The evening was so fully occupied that reports of the delegates from the state grange were necessarily omitted.

The next meeting, Jan. 7, will be the installation ceremonies of the new staff of officers. It is expected that Walter E. Morris, assisted by Mrs. L. E. Hutchins, both of Billerica grange, will do this work. A supper will be served, in charge of Edward A. Hamlin. The present membership has reached the two hundred mark and a little more.

Club. The regular meeting of the Tadmuck club took place in library hall Tuesday afternoon. Mrs. Ellen H. Richards, who is so well and favorably known here from her former association with our town and for her splendid work in household economics, was the speaker of the afternoon. It was a much-to-be-regretted circumstance that anything so excellent and helpful as the afternoon’s address should have been placed during Christmas week, when the average woman is so busy. However, quite a good audience assembled to hear Mrs. Richards, whose subject was “The chemistry of food,” and she naively confessed that this was a favorite one and gave a sensible practical talk on this truly vital subject, based upon long experience and study. She deplored the comparative indifference of many housewives in this matter and inclined to the belief that the increased cost of living was not so much in essentials as in an acquired taste for many things considered necessary. She touched upon various food theories such as vegetarianism, Fletcherism, [2] etc., and then proceeded with some definite, actual facts to outline a well-balanced dietary based upon chemical knowledge and the essential part it played in everybody’s life. Mrs. Richards recommended a few excellent books on the subject and at the close of her lecture questions were asked and before the meeting adjourned a rising vote of thanks was given Mrs. Richards.

The subject for the next meeting, Jan. 5, will be “Book reviews,” in charge of Mrs. Helen Keith Frost, Mrs. Wm. A. Woods and Miss Ella Hildreth.

Graniteville. Cameron circle, C.F. of A., held a largely attended meeting in their rooms Tuesday evening. Considerable business of importance was transacted and the following officers elected for the ensuing year:

Chief companion, Mrs. Bridget Healy; sub-chief, Miss Dora Leduc; treas., Mrs. Julia B. Wall; fin. sec., Mrs. Hannah E. Harrington; rec. sec., Lena J. Healy; right guide, Miss Mary J. Sullivan; left guide, Flora Stuart; inside guard, Engla Mattson; outside guard, Theresa Marchione; trustee, Annie Healy; physician, Dr. W. H. Sherman.

The officers will be installed by the degree team from the Ayer circle on the first regular meeting night next month, Jan. 12.

A daughter was born to Mr. and Mrs. Harry Bancroft on Tuesday, Dec. 22.

All the teachers in the different rooms of the Sargent school held some form of entertainment for the pupils last week Friday afternoon before the Christmas vacation. A pleasing program was successfully carried out and each pupil received some pretty gift.

Annual Christmas tree exercises were given by the Sunday school children of the M.E. church on Thursday evening at 7:30 o’clock. The exercises and tree as usual were in the main part of the church. The Christmas exercises and tree for the children of St. Catherine’s Sunday school were held on Wednesday evening at 7:15.

Mr. and Mrs. W. K. Putney and little son Charles Alfred of Needham, have been recent guests of Fred and Issie Parker of this village.

The mills of the Abbot Worsted company will close on this Friday and Saturday, enabling the employees to enjoy a three days’ vacation.

The members of court Westford, M.C.O.F., will hold their regular meeting, Dec. 26 instead of Dec. 24, which is the regular meeting night. As this is the last meeting of the year a full attendance is expected.

Mr. and Mrs. David Moran announce the marriage of their daughter, Mabelle Anna, to John Vasper Downing, Tuesday, Dec. 22 [at North Chelmsford].

Forge. Mrs. Ellen McDonald, wife of Joseph McDonald of this village, passed away Wednesday morning after a lingering illness. Everything possible was done for her, hoping that she might be well again. She wished to live for her home and children, but it was not to be. She even superintended the Christmas tree arrangements and hoped to be with her little ones in their enjoyment of their Christmas festivities, but she was called to the home prepared above, where her mother and two brothers who went before, a few years ago, were awaiting her.

Miss Jessie Wilson, who went to Chicago some months ago to care for her brother’s wife, who has been very ill, returned home Wednesday for the Christmas holidays, bringing her little niece, Dorothy Farrell, with her.

The usual Christmas tree exercises took place in Cameron school, last week Friday afternoon, and were enjoyed by relatives of the pupils. There is a pretty custom of exchanging gifts among the children, making the day one filled with loving memories. This has been a feature of the school for many years.

The seventeenth annual dance of the I.O.O.F., M.U., took place last week Friday evening, and as usual was a decided success. Joseph Bennett was general manager, John Baker, floor director, assisted by John Burnett. The ladies in charge of the supper were Mrs. Fred Davis, Mrs. John Spinner, Mrs. M. A. DeRoehn, Mrs. Chester Blodgett, Mrs. Joseph Bennett, Mrs. William Baker.

Mr. and Mrs. Martin Dailey and two sons are at her father’s Daniel Hanley, for the holidays.

[1] A General Catalogue of Trustees, Teachers and Students, Westford Academy, Westford, Mass. compiled by Cornelia Fletcher Day and published in Westford in 1912.

[2] Fletcherism was a food fad of the Victorian era inspired by Horace Fletcher (1849-1919) who argued that food, and even liquids, must be chewed 32 times before being swallowed. “Nature will castigate those who don’t masticate,” he said, for which he was dubbed “The Great Masticator.”