_hic_, BY THE _hic, hic_, EL'VATED RAILWAY!"]

* * * * *

OUR PORTFOLIO.

Since "gin-and-milk" has been declared to be an uncanonical beverage,
much uncertainty prevails among the brethren of the cloth as to what
refreshment would be considered orthodox and proper. There is no doubt
that some men are so constituted as to require fluid aids to religion.
To deprive them of it would be to strike a blow at popular piety. As the
laborer is worthy of his hire, so is the minister, whose throat becomes
parched by reason of much exhortation, worthy of the liquid balm which
is to renew his powers and strengthen his organs. PUNCHINELLO has had
under consideration the question of inventing some drink which might
happily satisfy the wants of the thirsty and avoid the scandal which
"gin-and-milk" has created among the godly. Many correspondents have
suggested to him various decoctions, but, as they all involved
spirituous ingredients, he has felt compelled to reject them. After
considerable trial, he flatters himself, however, that he has fallen
upon a discovery which may remove every objection. It is very simple,
and that of itself should be a strong recommendation.

Take some raw potatoes; thoroughly extract the juice; mix with it about
three ounces of horse-radish, (this to give it pungency,) flavor the
same with any aromatic root to suit the taste, and then let the whole
boil for one hour. After cooling, tightly bottle the mixture, and within
twenty-four hours it will be fit for use. The process then will be to
drink it in the same quantity that one would take either gin or whisky,
being careful to hold to the nose during the act of swallowing, a sponge