Indian Reservation. A considerable tract of land on the plains reserved for the Indian tribes.
Indians of North America. When Columbus discovered the “New World” he was under the impression that he had happened on that vast tract of country east of the Ganges vaguely known as India. This shows that, sailing westward as he did, he must have regarded the earth as a globe.
Indian Summer. The equivalent of what is called St Martin’s Summer in England. The North American Indians always avail themselves of the pleasant weather during the early part of November for harvesting their corn; they say there is an unfailing nine days’ second summer just before the winter sets in.
Indian Whisky. The name given to specially adulterated whisky for sale to the Indians of North America.
India Paper. A special kind of paper, made of vegetable fibre in China and Japan, on which the first impressions, called India proof, of engravings are taken. See “[India].”
India Proof. See “[India Paper].”
India-rubber. Caoutchouc, first imported from China, but now found elsewhere. See “[India].”
India-rubber Railway Sandwich. The typical refreshment-room sandwich, the bread slices of which are as a rule so stale that they defy hasty mastication.
Indigo. A blue dye prepared from the Indicus, or Indian plant.
Industrial Schools. Also known as Ragged Schools, of which the scholars are waifs and strays brought together for the acquirement of some useful industry.