Affecting Scene In A Saloon
One afternoon in the month of June, 1870, a lady in deep mourning, followed by a little child, entered one of the fashionable saloons in the city of N——. The writer happened to be passing at the time, and prompted by curiosity, followed her in to see what would ensue. Stepping up to the bar, and addressing the proprietor, she said:—
"Sir, can you assist me? I have no home, no friends, and am not able to work."
He glanced at her and then at the child, with a mingled look of curiosity and pity. Evidently he was much surprised to see a woman in such a place, begging, but, without asking any questions, gave her some change, and turning to those present, he said:—
"Gentlemen, here is a lady in distress. Can't some of you help her a little?"
They cheerfully acceded to the request, and soon a purse of two dollars was made up and put into her hand.
"Madam," said the gentleman who gave her the money, "why do you come to a saloon? It isn't a proper place for a lady, and why are you driven to such a step?"