''Abe'' Lincoln's Yarns and Stories - University of Macau Library

Yarns and Stories, by Alexander K. McClure 30"Well," replied Mr. Lincoln, "let me tell you a story. There was an Irishsoldier here last summer, who wanted something to drink stronger thanwater, and stopped at a drug-shop, where he espied a soda-fountain. 'Mr.Doctor,' said he, 'give me, plase, a glass of soda-wather, an' if yez can put ina few drops of whiskey unbeknown to any one, I'll be obleeged.' Now,"continued Mr. Lincoln, "if 'Jake' Thompson is permitted to go throughMaine unbeknown to any one, what's the harm? So don't have himarrested."MORE LIGHT AND LESS NOISE.The President was bothered to death by those persons who boisterouslydemanded that the War be pushed vigorously; also, those who shouted theiradvice and opinions into his weary ears, but who never suggested anythingpractical. These fellows were not in the army, nor did they ever take anyinterest, in a personal way, in military matters, except when engaged indodging drafts."That reminds me," remarked Mr. Lincoln one day, "of a farmer who losthis way on the Western frontier. Night came on, and the embarrassments ofhis position were increased by a furious tempest which suddenly burst uponhim. To add to his discomfort, his horse had given out, leaving himexposed to all the dangers of the pitiless storm."The peals of thunder were terrific, the frequent flashes of lightningaffording the only guide on the road as he resolutely trudged onward,leading his jaded steed. The earth seemed fairly to tremble beneath him inthe war of elements. One bolt threw him suddenly upon his knees."Our traveler was not a prayerful man, but finding himself involuntarilybrought to an attitude of devotion, he addressed himself to the Throne ofGrace in the following prayer for his deliverance:"'O God! hear my prayer this time, for Thou knowest it is not often that Icall upon Thee. And, O Lord! if it is all the same to Thee, give us a littlemore light and a little less noise.'