“My remarks will close with a little story about one of our most distinguished members. The story may not be a new one to you who are here present, but it is a good one,” and Colonel Crain paused. “Oh, go ahead,” shouted the audience; “let’s have the story.” “It was about a quarter of a century ago on the planet Mars and a great commotion was going on at the gates. There had been an unusual exodus from Earth, the accommodation train bringing with it many millionaires, all ready to become citizens. “One man hurriedly left the train and began elbowing his way through the surging crowd. “Addressing the doorkeeper, the newcomer asked to be admitted instantly, but was told that he must take his turn. “Indignation filled the newly arrived, who exclaimed, ‘My name is Jay Gould and while on earth I could buy my way in at any place. I did not bring any money with me, but I can give you a check for any amount you say. I want to get in quickly, so just say how much money you want.’ “The doorkeeper paused for a moment and replied: ‘A million up here counts for one cent and a second of time is the same as a thousand years.’ “‘All right,’ exclaimed Gould, ‘just tell me how much money you want to let me in.’ “Again did the doorkeeper stop to think, finally ejaculating, ‘One hundred millions.’ “‘Here is a check for it,’ said Gould. “‘Wait a minute,’ replied the doorkeeper. “This conversation occurred about twenty-five years ago and it is evident that Mr. Gould did not ‘wait a minute’ as suggested by the doorkeeper.” This story was received with a tumult of applause by the entire assemblage, after which the meeting adjourned. It was understood that the next meeting would be addressed by a number of southern operators, who will relate their telegraphic experience while on Earth. CHAPTER III. DIXIE DAY ON PLANET MARS It was certainly a choice gathering of spirits who flocked together at Telegraphers’ Tabernacle to listen to the doings of the boys from Dixie who were members of this honorable body. Fred B. Moxon, courtly and affable as of old, called the meeting to order. Mr. Moxon explained that the meeting was called for the purpose of having a pleasant time and everyone was cordially invited to say something. “Is Bob Irwin, ‘Canada’s fastest man,’ present?” came an inquiry from Dave Ryan. “No, Bob and Aleck Sinnot went a-fishing this morning down to Hesperian canal, but we expect to see them back very soon.” “I say, Dave,” queried Kentucky George Ellsworth, “how about that story that Brother Topping tells about you when you were on General Bragg’s staff? Did the General really cease hostilities on a certain occasion till you could be located?” “Just you read United States history and get better acquainted with me,” testily replied Ryan. But a smile speedily lit up the old war horse’s face when he recognized the president of the meeting.