It seems the convention had just nominated Rutherford B. Hayes for the presidency and that alone was the cause of the tumult.
Robt. C. Hayes now holds a prominent position with the Burlington road in Omaha and his friends still tell this story on him.
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George Lawton, affectionately known to the telegraph fraternity as “Old Farmer” Lawton, is a familiar figure in the Denver office where he holds the position of assistant manager.
“Farmer” Lawton has worked in Denver, lo, these many years. He loves to reminisce and his stories are good.
Back in the 70’s the “Farmer” used to copy press from “Nip” Jones, at Cheyenne, for the Denver papers. “Nip” was a fast but erratic sender, his speed varying according to his mood.
“Farmer” Lawton had been “breaking” a good deal one night, when Jones petulantly remarked: “I say, ‘Farmer,’ how is it that some nights you take me all right and other nights you break every little while?”
“Farmer” Lawton’s artless reply was, “Why, don’t you see, ‘Nip,’ you send faster some nights than you do others.”
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When Mr. A. B. Cowan was chief operator of the Chicago office he found himself, on an occasion, needing some help in the printer’s room and he engaged a young Jewess, named Henrietta, to work as automatic operator. The newcomer proved to be very trustworthy, full of snap, energetic and intelligent.