ago was a swamp: it
was considered worthless, but it was as easy for this natural mechanic
to conceive the idea of draining this tract of land, as it was to
conceive methods to raise buildings. A very large force of men were put
to work draining; gas-pipes were laid; streets were laid out and graded,
and an architect employed to draw the plans for the building of a whole
city at once. Gigantic work-shops were built, and a water supply brought
from Lake Michigan, miles away. Besides all this, over fourteen hundred
beautiful homes were built before any man was asked to come to Pullman
to enter the shops. A bank was opened, a library, containing thousands
of volumes, was provided; all these things were brought about by Mr.
Pullman. He has expended several million of dollars in beautifying and
providing for the comfort and pleasure of his employes. The buildings
are not mushroom affairs, but substantial brick edifices which give this
place an appearance which will compare favorably with any city. He built
a fine hotel, and erected a beautiful church, placing a rich toned organ
in it, which alone cost $3,500. Every honest tradesman can come to
Pullman. None but liquor dealers or men who desire to keep low
groggeries are excluded. No property is sold, but if a party desires to
live there he applies to the Superintendent, and a lease is given, which
can be cancelled by either party at ten days' notice. Nothing but liquor
is forbidden. A man can squander his time, can gamble, possibly, but he
cannot obtain drink; the result is, there are no policemen. No visible
form of government, save Mr. Pullman, and yet this is a city of nearly
eight thousand people. The people are not muddled with drink; they are
promptly paid; their 'personal' rights are not interfered with, save in
respect to the selling of liquor; they are contented and happy. Mr.
Pullman has been largely identified with the Metropolitan Railway and
the Eagleton Wire Works in New York city. But the name of Pullman is
destined to long remain a synonym of philanthropy. He has practically
demonstrated the benefit of legislation against the sale of intoxicating
liquors as a beverage. He claims to have done this as a business policy,
and disclaims all honor as a philanthropist. We answer, would that we
had more men who would follow this kind of a business policy.

THOMAS A. EDISON.

On February 11th, 1845, was born at Milan, Ohio, Thomas A. Edison, now a
little over