many advertisements of "patent medicines" seen all over the world at the present time "Peruna" and "Duffy's Pure Malt Whiskey" for exampleone might feel a slight delicacy in charging the ancients with having only the search for The Elixer of Life" in view. And we know that the efforts of these ancient alchemists have resulted or developed into modern chemistry with all its benefits to humanity.

It should be understood that the transformation from alchemy to chemistry was gradual, long drawn out and disheartening to its devotees, as they were not always given credit for being honest, a repetition of the experience of pioneers in many other fields for the advancement of knowledge. But gradually their knowledge of the transformation of one substance into another, learned through experimentation, began to assume definite shape, and they found that some of the substances could not be made to assume the character of other substances, could not be reduced to simpler forms, and this may be called the starting point of modern chemistry, that is, that some substances like gold, silver, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen and about eighty others are elements. That is to say, there are about eighty substances which chemists are unable to reduce to simpler forms by any of the reagents known to them.

Gradually, during the last two hundred years, the philosophers have with patient toil and singular devotion hunted out these eighty odd elements from their different compounds, and it seems reasonably certain that from these all the two hundred thousand or more substances in the world can be produced to this extent, therefore, they are transmutable. But it is seen at once that when modern chemists speak of the transmutability of the elements, they mean an entirely different thing than the ancients did when they spoke of transmutability, and many a chemist has doubtless argued and experimented himself into the firm belief that these eighty odd elements are indeed ultimate, independent things, the original foundation-stones out of which the universe

is made. Eminent investigators in the domain of physical science have not, unconditionally, however, admitted this view of the subject, because in the realm of research there seems to be possibilities and probabilities which entice and beckon the investigator on and on toward an ultimate primordial stuff, of which all the other elements are simply groups of atoms, probably hydrogen.

To many an earnest investigator it has seemed intolerable that the whole world and perhaps the whole universe could be made up of eighty odd elements between which there was no definite relationship. In 1863 a man by the name of John Newlands discovered a new type of relationship which has since been developed by the Russian chemist Mendeleeff, and has since become known as "Mendeleeff's Periodic Law." A study of the periodic law is somewhat long and difficult to understand, but suffice it to say, that if the atomic weight of any element is known, then all of its chemical and physical properties can be predicted before the element itself has ever been seen. Indeed Mendeleeff made the prediction several years before uranium, radium and thorium were known to exist, that they did exist, and told all about them and when they were discovered it was found that he had told exactly their chemical and physical properties. That is to say,

the periodic law was borne out in its theoretical claims by the evidence of known elements, and it also received confirmation in its prediction of unknown elements. It would be a superficial view of this law, however, to say of it that its only function is to make sure that no other elements exist in nature but those now known. It has a bearing on the very existence of elements, as such, that is to say are they elements, or compounds, and are they changeable into one another, or are they all derived from some common substance? The answer seems to be conclusive that they are not elements, because they have relationships, they group themselves into definite families, something added to the weight of an element changes its

properties in a perfectly definite and predetermined way.

Those who care to think further on this subject will find that the search along these lines is being continually carried forward by men who are longing for the truth. They will find that the invention of the spectroscope gave scientists a powerful aid in their search into the hidden things of nature; they will find that the conclusions to be drawn from the use of this instrument in stellar research, as corroborative of the conclusions of chemists regarding the existence of some primordial stuff in cosmical processes and in transmu

tation, are far from being fancies of the brain. They will find that in the discovery of "cathode rays" the X-rays and electrical experiments, science is continually sweeping away the barriers and enlarging our field of knowledge in every direction. And finally they will

find that in the wonders of radium and in the metals known to possess the phenomenon of radioactivity we have but a "foretaste of a fountain of new knowledge, destined to overthrow the boundaries of science and to impregnate with teeming thought many a high and arid plateau of philosophy."

Editor Railway Conductor:

Across the foam, far, far from home the wanderer

may steer,

But memory will never roam from all he holds most dear;

A father's and a mother's love blooms when all else decay

How prized and treasured are the hours of childhood's happy days,

But they were not there to greet me on my return to the home of my childhood. The radiance that once shown from their dear eyes faded now, forever, from this dull, gray earth. My mission was ended and would have taken the first steamer homeward bound, were it not for the pleadings to stay a little longer from those whom the same parents' blood courses through my veins, and the thought came drifting to me just then, how much better for the youths and maidens of this country who have enough and to spare to stay in their own native lands. And as time and tide wait for no man, the changes wrought during my absence were many. Even that old trysting place where in girlhood days we so often met and listened to that old, yet ever new story of love to which young hearts are so susceptible. Though years had brought me joy serene, and bitter, bitter pain, I would have given them all that day to be a girl again. While enroute I was fortunate to have met Sister Hutchinson, President of the Manhattan Division, New York, at her elegant home out at Mt. Vernon. My southern Sisters all look good to me. I found my northern Sister to compare favorably with them; the same genial hand-clasp which symbolizes the bond of friendship which unites us, convinces me more forcibly than ever that our Auxiliary knows no geographical lines. Many were the expressions of true friendship tendered me on my departure and enroute making me feel I was leaving home instead of going home, brightening and cheering my trip homeward, which seemed to pacify the angry billows till I was safely anchored in our peaceful Texas harbor.

This may be an opportune time to see ourselves as others see us. While shopping in a fashionable

district in Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, I was compelled to ask several questions. Feeling an apology was necessary for my seeming inquisitiveness. In an off-hand business way the gentleman in question says, "Not at all; the Americans like to ask questions. They want to know everything. A very intelligent people are the Americans." How keenly I regretted being such a poor representative of what the American people really are. The universal opinion everywhere I went was that America leads, all other countries follow.

In being shown through Carrickfergus Castle, in the north of Ireland, I was asked would we not. like to have castles and royalty in our country. Smilingly I replied, Our American homes are elegant and luxurious; our American men noblemen, and our fair sex, ladies. No more do we crave.

I enjoyed my visit greatly, although it recalled many sorrows and brought me tidings of many deaths that I had not heard of before. As the advent of another new year is at hand, let each try to well do her part, so that at the close of another year life will be the better for us having been spared. MRS. T. I. WATTERS.

San Antonio, Tex.

The following address was made by Mrs. Watters of San Antonio, at the joint installation of Houston Division No. 87, Order of Railway Conductors, and Ladies' Auxiliary Division No. 7, in presenting gavels to the newly installed presiding officers of the two orders.

"Brother Chairman, Sisters, Brothers, and Friends: Again is the pleasant privilege mine of extending to you in behalf of Houston Division No. 87, Ladies' Auxiliary to the Order of Railway Conductors, a cordial welcome here this afternoon. Assuring you that your presence here from time to time cheers and encourages us on to noble deeds. To say that we are overjoyed at greeting you, our friends and comrades in brotherly and sisterly love, but half expresses our feelings. That we have assembled here in a congenial spirit, uniting with our Brother conductors in another joint installation. In this age of progress it is only necessary

Once

to give the signal and it is at once heeded. the ranks are formed there are new recruits to follow right along. Every year finds us still struggling to reach the top, one rung at a time. The last year has reflected on me much joy and gladness. The good results which enabled me to make the trip which my heart had been yearning for years past a visit to the home of my youth and childhood, across the mighty ocean, to see once more the few remaining kindred and friends and to view the resting places of loved ones who had sought the great beyond. Joy intermingled with sadness to make the bitter sweet. My trip from start to finish was one rapturous delight. Then back to my home to pick up the broken thread and resume my task. Having been through other countries and seen conditions, I must say that our country is far ahead of all others along the same lines. Our railroad system is perfection in contrast. The railroads in this country, organized and built by cool-headed, enterprising capitalists, who are keen to appreciate the same class of men to operate the trains. The traveler feels at perfect ease, having almost the comforts of home, and in the care of courteous, chivalrous men, who are everybody's friend-no one's foewho never consider it irksome to be civil and polite to their fellow beings, who are willing to lend a little aid to one by a bit of information, so kindly given, a shake of the hand which would indicate God speed you safely on your way; particularly, I was about to say, if the person was one of the fair sex and young and good looking; but seeing so many conductor's wives around I believe I had best leave that unsaid. However, their manly presence, passing and repassing through the train, gives us an assurance of confidence and safety we don't experience while traveling in any other country but our own. We may be proud to feel that we are so closely akin to the noble railway conductors. In closing my remarks, I must thank the Sisters for their kindly interest. And that we must begin the coming year with renewed interest; keep our forces together and achieve fame, which we will merit. For the many blessings bestowed upon us we must give thanks to Him who gives us strength and succor in our bereavements. Humbly bow in submission. His will be done. Then stretch forth your hands like a brother, remembering life's but a span. It's your duty to love one another and do a good turn when you can.

Now, last if not least; During my recent sojourn through the British Isles scarcely a day passed, pleasantly occupied as my time was, but what I was reciting something of the noble character of the American people; and my thoughts were constantly drifting to the Lone Star State, the land of my adoption. But knowing some of you come from Missouri and that I would have to show you, I had made of the Irish blackthorn, commonly called the shillalah (and which many a poor fellow has felt to his sorrow), these two little gavels, which I now present-one to your estimable chief, the other to our beloved President for their respective Divisions. But, as perpetual friendship and charity, truth and friendship are our motto, they will, I am sure, never have to use them in deadly combat. Combined in them you have the black

thorn in its natural state and also the harp and shamrock, each emblematic of Erin's green shores. Sad indeed would have been my return trip therefrom were it not for the assurance of your continued confidence and friendship, which for years I have enjoyed and appreciate more than I can now express, and will, I trust, as long as time lasts ever remain green as the little ribbons which entwine them."

Answer to "A Baby of Other Days."

I love to hear the voice of babies,
Love to hear their childish plays,
Love to tell them funny stories,
Even those of other days."
You may have lost your baby beauty
And the hair all shot with gold,
But the hand that framed those verses
Was by a noble heart controlled.
One that is always kind and loving,
One that is always good and true
I have never even met you,

But will say that much for you.
There is a heart in every bosom
Everywhere in this fair land,
But the heart that wins the glory
Is the heart that rules the hand.
We once had another baby

And her heart was filled with love,
But the angels came and took her
To her home far up above.
Her hair was brown and curly

And her eyes like babies', blue,
She was baby Jewel's mamma
And her heart was kind and true.
Yet she was a noble woman-

Now she's roaming with the blessed;
But we know our heavenly father
Knows and does what is the best
She was just a little angel

Who had lost her childish ways She was just a d、ar good womanA baby of other days.

But some day when all is over

And on earth our bodies die We will go meet our mamma Little babe Jewel and I.

Oh how true are the lines you penciled Yet to some they may seem mild. For when our lives are sad and lonely In our hearts we're still a child.

Editor Railway Conductor:

Having been re-elected to the office of correspondent for Battle Creek Division No. 230, I will endeavor to fulfil my duty. Our last meeting was a very busy one, also a very pleasant one, as all our officers were re-elected. We are anticipating with great pleasure our installation, which is to take place at our next meeting.

As we listen to the ringing out of the Old Year and the ringing in of the New, how many of us can

say, "I have done my best by the Auxiliary." May we begin with an earnest desire to fulfill more faithfully our obligations, so we will grow nearer and dearer to each other as the years go by. Many of us think too lightly of the solemn obligations we take when we become members of the Order, for, if we live up to the vow, we would all be more noble Christian women.

Now I must tell you about a few of our social events. October 12, in the International Congress hall, we held a box dinner, inviting the conductors and their families. Following the dinner a very happy time was spent and much merriment created by the ladies telling how each had earned ten cents. The hard-earnesd money was contributed to our treasury. November 1, Brother and Sister C. R. Martin opened their beautiful new home to the L. A. & O. R. C. for a box social. The afternoon was spent in a needle contest, the one who succeeded in making the best buttonhole was awarded a box of beautiful carnations. The conductors arrived in time to receive the signal to open their pocket books and purchase one or more of the artistic boxes provided by the sisters. They responded generously and the proceeds increased the amount in our treasury considerably. The evening was beguiled by the rendition of an informal program, which included music, recitations, toasts, and other entertainments features.

December 13, we held our First Annual Ball. One hundred and fifty couples were in attendance to enjoy the festivities, good music, plenty of sociability and delicious light refreshments contributed to make the party the success it proved to be. The hall was decorated in the colors of the Order, and mirth and merriment continued until a late hour.

We have been so successful in all our undertakings, we feel encouraged to go on in a good way. There has been very little sickness in our circle. The stork has visited two homes, leaving a son to Brother and Sister Lee and a daughter to Brother and Sister Kirkpatrick.

The sympathy of Division 230 goes out to Brother Hartman and family. Brother Hartman had the misfortune to fall off from the top of a moving car. We all hope his injuries will not prove serious. Just a word about our officers. They have made a study of their work and it is much appreciated by all the Sisters.

I think I can safely say we have a wide-awake, healthy, growing Division.

Editor Railway Conductor:

We have passed our first anniversary and I can truly say we all have much to be thankful for, with each and all working for the good of the Order. December 13 was our election of officers; all serving the past year were elected for another year.

November 15, Parkinson Division had as their guests, Empire Division of Elmira, also Sayre Division of Sayre, Pa. They were escorted to the Division rooms where a reception was held until dinner was served. After which the regular session was called. After going through the regular order of business, Sister Walsh, requested us

Sis

to go through the initiation, which we did. ter Walsh, our District Deputy, was much pleased with the work we had accomplished in one year. After all other business was over Sister Durfey of Empire Division, gave the ladies the O, Why degree, which was very impressive. A 6 o'clock banquet was served by the ladies of Parkinson Division, which was much enjoyed by many of the husbands of the ladies being present. Later the O, Why degree was given to them, which if lived up to will make them better railroad men and much better husbands. Sister Walsh presented us with a beautiful imported vase, filled with white chyrsanthemums, which we prized very highly.

Sister Low has been confined to her home by rheumatism for some time. Sister Tillman has the deepest sympathy of our Division in the loss of her husband. His is the first death since we organized. MRS. H. JONES.

Hornell, N. Y.

Editor Railway Conductor:

It is past time for Edgar E. Clark Division to be heard from through the columns of the CONDUCTOR, SO I will make one more effort to write a short letter before my term of office expires and that will not be long for before this letter appears on the pages of the CONDUCTOR, we will have elected officers for another year. We have had a splendid set of officers for 1906, and hope we will have just as good for 1907. But no matter how good the officers may be, they cannot make the Division a success without the help of the other members, so Sisters, let us come out and elect a good set of officers and then come to every meeting that we possibly can through the year.

Our Division is slowly, but surely growing. We have initiated three new members this fall and have one other waiting for initiation and one or two petitions out which we hope to get in soon.

We have been blessed indeed, since we have been organized-have been organized nearly three years and have not lost a member by death,-and I think we have a great deal to be thankful for. We still hold our monthly socials and those who are missing them are missing a treat. The next will be with Sister J. B. Reeves and we are expecting that to be the best we have had yet as we know Sister Reeves knows just how to entertain.

Brother A. W. Staley had the misfortune to lose one of his feet last week. It was run over by a car in the C. of G. yard, where he was assistant yardmaster. Macon, Ga.

Editor Railway Conductor:

MRS. G. L. AGEE.

It is my duty as well as pleasure to write of all the doings in Coke Region Division 197. We have had a very social time so far this fall. Sister Coleman entertained the Brothers and Sisters very pleasantly at her home on her birthday. All report having a good time with them, Brother and Sister Coleman both know how to make all feel at home and enjoy themselves.

We only have one more meeting in this year.