p. 79 | A Caution by R. M. KILGORE

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 21, 1871

A Caution.

By R. M. KILGORE

In passing through Chicago, on my way to Battle Creek recently, an incident occurred which I witnessed, and will relate for the benefit of others who may have to pass through that great city.

While on the cars, before we reached Chicago, we purchased our omnibus tickets to carry us across the city to the Michigan Central depot.

A man, at the same time, purchased tickets to carry himself and wife, his parents, and five children, to the same depot.

When the cars stopped, a rush was made for the omnibuses. This family was divided, and seated in different omnibuses; while one of the family, a young man, was urged to get into one of those black, two-horse cabs, which are so numerous at such times, with drivers so anxious to “accommodate” the traveler.

On arriving at the M. C. depot, this man found one of his sons missing. He soon arrived, however; but for his passage they had to pay two dollars, this sum being allowed the hack drivers by the city authorities; while the omnibus line charge but fifty cents per passage, and baggage free.

I inquired of the police why such swindling was permitted, and was told that it could not be avoided, that travelers must look out for themselves. I was also told that similar cases occurred every day; and that sometimes travelers by taking passage in those black cabs, have never been heard of afterward. I have reason to believe it is so.

A word to the wise is sufficient.

R. M. KILGORE.

Battle Creek, Feb. 14, 1871.