circulars, sent out machinery, and plunged into the earth for the
rightful development of resources. To form the other six hundred
companies, only three or four things were necessary: First, an
attractive circular, regardless of expense. It must have all the
colors and hues of earth, and sea, and heaven. Let the letters flame
with all the beauty of gold, and jasper, and amethyst. It must state
the date of incorporation, and the fact that "all subscribers shall
get the benefit of the original undertaking. While it does not make
so much pretension as some other companies, it must be distinctly
announced that this is a safe and permanent investment." The circular
must state that "there are a goodly number of flowing wells, and
others which the company are happy to say have a very good smell of
oil." "The books will be open only five days, as there are only a few
shares yet to be taken." Connected with this circular is an elaborate
map, drawn by the artist of the company. Never mind the geography of
the country. Our map must have a creek running through it, so crooked
as to traverse as much of the land as possible, and make it all
water-front. "Ah!" said one man to his artist, "you make only one
creek."--"Well," said the artist, "if you want three creeks you can
have them at very little expense. There--you have them now--three
creeks!"

Then the circular must have good names attached to it. How to get
them? The president and directors must be prominent men. If celebrated
for piety, all the better. The estimable man approached says: "I know
nothing about this company."--"Well," says the committee waiting
on him, "we will give you five hundred dollars' worth of shares."
Immediately the estimable man begins to "know about it," and accepts
the position of president. Three or four directors are obtained in
the same way. Now the thing is easy. After this you can get anybody.