It seems to have been the fashion in "old times" with people who had articles stolen from them to advertise in the papers, requesting the thief or thieves to make restitution. Probably this was the surest method of recovery, in the absence of the detective system. Joseph Tyler in the "Boston Gazette," Nov. 21, 1761, is inclined to be sarcastic, and Samuel Brazer, of Worcester, in 1802, is witty, but modest. As to stealing psalm-books, no one would dream of doing such a thing in these days. Our modern thieves are not interested in devotional books; they prefer "yellow-covered literature." Joseph Tyler _desires the Person that borrowed his Surtout to return it, if it is not worn out_. 1767. * * * * * Taken out of the Pew, No. 59, in the Rev'd Mr. Barnard, senior's Meeting-House, about a Month since, a PSALM-BOOK. The Person is desired to return it, otherwise may depend upon being exposed. _Essex Gazette_, Sept. 28, 1773. * * * * * _A MODEST REQUEST!_ THE two obliging _Ladies_, who on the night of Monday, the 29th ultimo, between six and seven o'clock in the evening, took from the Store of the Subscriber (_not by mistake_) FIVE BARCELONA HANDKERCHIEFS, are desired to return them immediately, _with satisfactory remuneration_, or the next notice they receive will come "_GREETING_." SAMUEL BRAZER. _Worcester_, December 8, 1802. * * * * * THE person who took six pair of SHOES, one day last week, under a false name, from a shop in Essex Street, would do well, if they wish to avoid difficulties, to return them immediately. Salem, July 22. _Salem Gazette_, 1800. * * * * * _The Person who yesterday, at dusk, took a piece of black_ VELVET _from the shop board of the Subscribers, is well known. He has now an opportunity of returning it, and if not immediately done, shall suffer the penalty of the Law._ J. & I. NEWHALL. Salem, Nov. 5, 1805. * * * * * Pictures like the following could be seen in the "Essex Gazette" in 1771 (May 14). [Illustration] Ran away from the Subscriber, on the 4th of May, a Negro Man named _Cato_, of a middling Stature, has lost the Sight of his left Eye, had on a kersey Jacket and leather Breeches. Whoever shall take up said Negro, and bring him to his Master in Salem, shall have Two Dollars Reward, and all Charges paid, by _William Hunt._ * * * * *