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THE PRIZE FOR HOMELINESS.

In keeping with his proneness to jest at his own expense rather than
lose a laugh, Lincoln is credited with telling the following story
upon himself:

"In the days when I used to be on the circuit (law), I was accosted
on the road by a stranger. He said: 'Excuse me, sir, but I have
an article in my possession which belongs to you.' 'How is that?'
I asked, considerably astonished.

"The stranger took a 'Barlow' from his pocket.

"'This knife,' said he, 'was placed in my hands some years ago with
the injunction of the community, through its bearer, that I was to
keep it until I struck a man homelier than I. I have carried it from
that time till this. Allow me to say, sir, that you are fairly
entitled to the testimonial.'"


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HOW LONG LEGS SHOULD BE.