Trans-Mississippi&International Exposition

Please accept the enclosed Badge, with my compliments. It is the same style as will be worn by THE TRANS MISSISSIPPI AND INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION BUSINESS MEN'S DELEGATION, on their eastern and southern trip.

DOUGLAS COUNTY AND EXPOSITION.

Commissioners Will Meet Some of the Agricultural Society Men.

Next Monday morning George R. Williams, Bennington; J. R. Watts, Waterloo; Andy Kewitt and Omar Whitney of Omaha, a committee from the Douglas County Agricultural society, will meet the county commissioners for the purpose of conferring relative to the appointment of a commission to gather and look after a Douglas county agricultural exhibit for the exposition.

In reference to Douglas county and the exposition, the commissioners say that they are doing all that lays in their power to advance the interests of the big show. Chairman Kierstead says that of the $100,000 voted at the last election the county has turned over $50,000, and that the $25,000 will be paid as soon as the exposition people comply with the terms of the resolution adopted by the commissioners some time ago. "That resolution," said Chairman Kierstead, "provides that $10,000 additional will be turned over when the Horticultural building is under roof, $6,000 when the stock and poultry pens are built, $1,500 when the Apiary building is completed and $2,500 when the Dairy building is under roof. The remaining $5,000, held back for maintenance and beautifying the grounds, will be paid when the county commissioners see fit to draw the warrants."

Speaking of the balance of the proceeds of the bond sale, Chairman Kierstead said: "I don't think that we shall turn this money over to the exposition association. We will need this money in gathering and placing the Douglas county exhibit, and I consider it no more than right and just that we should hold it and expend it ourselves."

START SUITS ON THE STOCK

EXPOSITION SUBSCRIBERS MUST PAY UP

Directors Authorize Manager Lindsey to Take Steps Needed—Progress of Work Outlined by Men Having Charge.

The regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of the exposition was held yesterday afternoon and was a very animated proceeding. The financial question formed the most important feature of the meeting and it was decided that all subscribers to exposition stock to the amount of $500 or over who are delinquent on their payments in thirty days from this date and who are not "judgment proof" shall be sued for the amount of their subscriptions remaining unpaid. Smaller subscribers will not be allowed to escape the payment of their subscriptions and they, too, will be made to feel the weight of the law if they persist in remaining delinquent. A committee was appointed to visit the county commissioners and endeavor to persuade that body to pay over to the exposition the remainder of the $75,000 which it agreed to devote to assisting in the construction of buildings and preparation of the grounds. The charge was made that the Auditorium building on the exposition grounds is unsafe and liable to collapse when filled with a crowd and the architects-in-chief were directed to make a thorough investigation at once and report on the condition of this building. The matter of appointing a director general, or some other officer having general direction of the work of all departments of the exposition, was brought up, but no action was taken because so many of the members of the board had withdrawn on account of the lateness of the hour, that there was no quorum. The advisability of calling a special meeting to discuss this question was considered and this will probably be done.

Nearly an hour was consumed in waiting for enough members to put in an appearance to constitute a quorum and when the meeting was finally called to order there were twenty-seven members present.

Reports of departments were the first thing in order and a financial statement was read by Secretary Wakefield, showing that collections since February 1 amounted to $14,385, making the total collections to date $318,573. The total amount of cash on hand was given as $49,600 and the total disbursements as $366,000.

CONSIDERING THE COUNTY FUND.

Manager Lindsey of the Ways and Means department called attention to the urgent need of money and offered a resolution calling upon the Board of County Commissioners to turn over without further delay the amount of $100,000 voted by the people of this country in aid of the exposition, which the board had agreed to contribute as the county's share of the expense of preparation. Mr. Lindsey referred to the situation which confronts the exposition and said the money is badly needed.

Director Hibbard had the impression that it was designed to persuade the county commissioners to turn over the full amount of the proceeds of the bonds and said he was opposed to this, because he had worked for the passage of the bond bill in the legislature and had told his friends that the proceeds would be devoted to showing the resources of Douglas county.

It was explained that it was not the intention to ask the county commissioners to turn over all the proceeds, but simply the part that had been covered by the resolution adopted by them some time ago, providing for transferring $75,000 to the exposition to aid in the erection of certain of the buildings and preparing the grounds.

After some further discussion to the motion was withdrawn and a committee of five was provided for, this committee to visit the commissioners and endeavor to accomplish the purpose covered by the resolution. The president appointed as this committee Directors Hibbard, Wharton, Webster, Lyman and Carpenter.

The discussion of finances being in order, Director Manderson said some radical action must be taken to compel those people who had subscribed large amounts to the exposition and who were able to pay, but who refuse to do so, to pay up and bear their share of the burden. He moved that the chairman of the Ways and Means department be instructed to commence suit within thirty days against every subscriber of $1,000 or over who is, in the opinion of the chairman, good on execution and who is delinquent at the expiration of the thirty days.

In the discussion which followed this motion the amount was changed to make the amount $500 or over and was adopted in this form. There was no opposition to the motion and Manger Lindsey said he would apply the same rule to subscribers of smaller amounts where such action seemed advisable.

WORK OF PROMOTION.

This ended the financial discussion and the Department of Publicity and Promotion was called for. Manager Rosewater made a verbal report of the working of his department, saying that when the Promotion department was placed in his charge but four states in the transmississippi region had appointed commissions and none of the eastern states had taken action. Since that time he said all of the transmississippi states except Washington and Oregon have commissions actively at work, and of the territories New Mexico has an active commission and Arizona will probably be organized within a short time. An agent of the department has been sent to Washington and Oregon and returns are expected from those states shortly. Of the states outside the transmississippi region Mr. Rosewater said Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, West Virginia and Wisconsin have commissions actively at work, and the governor of New York is now preparing to appoint a commission of prominent business men, the governors of Tennessee, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Rhode Island are greatly interested in the matter of having their states represented, while the indications are   favorable for Ohio, Indiana, Michigan and other states taking energetic action in the near future. Mr. Rosewater said he was convinced that when the exposition opens there will be fully thirty-five states represented, and he reminded the board that this was about ten more than were at the Centennial exposition in 1876.

Referring to the publicity portion of his department, Mr. Rosewater referred briefly to the articles which have appeared in the big eastern illustrated papers and magazines and the amount of news matter regarding the exposition which has appeared in the newspapers all over the country. He also spoke of the arrangements which have recently been made with persons of great prominence to write exposition articles which will appear in the great magazines.

SPRINGS A SENSATION.

For the Department of Buildings and Grounds, Manager Kirkendall submitted a written report, showing the progress of the work on the buildings and grounds, and the condition of the several buildings at this time.

When this report had been read Director Youngs caused a sensation by stating that he had been informed, by what he considered a good authority, that the Auditorium building on the exposition grounds was not properly constructed, and that it would not be safe to allow a crowd to enter the building for fear of it giving way. He said he believed that the building should be thoroughly examined before the construction had proceeded any further and every weak part strengthened in order to remove any suspicion of weakness.

Manager Kirkendall was on his feet in an instant to demand who had made such a statement. He said he had heard such a report and had made an examination with the assistance of Inspectors Tamm and Baker and had found the building entirely safe.

A dozen of the directors asked for the name of Youngs' informant, and he announced that Inspector Baked had told him about the condition of the building.

"That man is not fit to be in our employ a minute," exclaimed Manager Kirkendall, hotly.

"Hold on! Wait a minute!" exclaimed General Manderson. "I think a man is to be commended for making known such an important state of affairs, instead of condemned. Let us look into this thing. We cannot afford to allow any doubt to exist regarding the stability of a building which may be crowded with thousands of people. It might result in injuries to people which would cost the exposition thousands of dollars in damages."

When quiet was restored the matter was discussed calmly and it developed that Director Youngs had his attention called to the condition of the Auditorium and he had gone direct to Inspector Baker and demanded to know what he thought about it. Mr. Baker had told him that he considered certain portions of the building weak and unequal to support a heavy crowd. This had occurred about six weeks ago and it was stated that certain changes had been made in the construction of the building which might cover the defects spoken of by Mr. Youngs. In order to make certain that there was no weak spots left untouched, a resolution was adopted, calling upon the architects-in-chief to at once make a thorough inspection of the building and report the result to the executive committee.

EXHIBITS AND CONCESSIONS.

Manager Bruce submitted a written report of the Exhibits department, reviewing the work of that department since the last meeting of the directors.

Manager Reed made a brief report of the operation of the Concessions department, saying contracts have been made for the following: Scenic railway, to James A. Griffith; wild west show, to Mattox & Root; trained animal show, similar to Haegenbeck's at Chicago, to E. H. Sprague, A. J. Love and other Omaha parties; messenger service, to American District Telegraph company; official guide to Megeath Stationery company. He said that of the 4,500 lineal feet on the Midway there have been let concessions which will occupy 2,500 feet, leaving 2,000 feet, the income from which to date was $23,000. A number of concessions are under consideration and will be closed within a short time.

Manager Babcock made a brief statement of what had been accomplished by the Transportation department, saying favorable rates had been made on all railroad and steamship lines.

This disposed of all the departments, and Manager Rosewater brought up the matter of the appointment of a director general of the exposition. He made a forcible argument, showing that the time has come when such an office should be taken without unnecessary delay. He reviewed the conditions existing and asserted that no exposition has ever been successfully conducted without that form of organization.

DEBATE SOMEWHAT INTERESTING.

Manager Kirkendall took Mr. Rosewater's statements as personal and declared he was ready and willing to resign, and offered to double his subscription if he was allowed to do so.

Mr. Rosewater denied any personal motive, but said the Buildings and Grounds department was the one most concerned at this time and a man should be appointed to take full charge.

Mr. Manderson asked if it had not been decided back in November that the executive committee should appoint a superintendent at $200 per month to take full charge of all work.

Mr. Rosewater said nothing had been done under this resolution and there is no probability of anything being done.

Mr. Holdrege wanted to know if this matter was recommended by the whole executive committee or was recommended only by Manager Rosewater.

Chairman Lindsey said he for one was opposed to a director general because the committee had carried the thing along to its present stage and a director general might make the exposition a failure and the committee would then be responsible.

Mr. Manderson called attention to the fact that there was no quorum present and nothing could be done.

A general discussion followed, in which Mr. Rosewater suggested a special meeting to consider the matter along with the water question.

Director Manderson and others admitted the force of Mr. Rosewater's arguments and said something ought to be done at once. They insisted that the whole matter had been turned over to the executive committee and that body should act.

Mr. Rosewater insisted that the committee would do nothing. It had left the matter to Mr. Kirkendall and he had refused for over three months to do anything, and in the meantime the matter was dragging along and things were getting badly mixed up.

As there was no quorum present nothing could be done and the meeting dissolved with the general understanding that a special meeting should be called shortly to consider this proposition and the water question.

MORE DELEGATES FROM DENVER.

Two Car Loads Coming to Look Over the Exposition's Prospects.

Colorado is the next state which will send a large delegation of her most prominent business and professional men to "spy out the land" and imbibe exposition enthusiasm, which is always on tap in Omaha. This much was decided on at a meeting of the Colorado Exposition commission held in Denver Wednesday afternoon, it being decided that Governor Adams and Mayor McMurray of Denver should appoint representatives of that city and state sufficient to fill two special cars, and W. F. Bailey was appointed to make the necessary arrangements for the transportation of the party. According to the program, as far as arranged, the party will leave Denver in the afternoon of some day to be determined on later, and reach Omaha the next morning. They will remain in Omaha until the afternoon trains leave and reach home the next morning.

Commissioner Ward and Secretary Macdonald, who visited Omaha last week, filled the Denver people with enthusiasm regarding the exposition, and the rest of the state and Denver commissions are anxious to come and see what is being done.

WARNING TO THOSE LOOKING FOR JOBS

To even a casual observer Secretary John A. Wakefield of the Trans-Mississippi exposition has of late been showing evidences of a mental strain of no mean caliber. The secretary's friends have noticed that he seemed not only to have constantly that tired feeling, but his hair and flowing facial adornment were becoming rapidly streaked with white. In a man of the youth and energy of the secretary this seemed to quite a number as a sort of phenomenon, and during a serious conversation the other night by a party of his more intimate friends upon the cause of this change, it was decided that the writer should see Mr. Wakefield and try to obtain from him the cause of his apparent breaking down.

A few days later the writer called at the secretary's office, and seeing, when he entered the room, that Mr. Wakefield was busy, he seated himself where he could quietly watch the object of his anxiety.

In a few moments there entered the room a gentleman with a ministerial looking makeup, who inquired directly for the secretary, and, approaching that gentleman, he said: "I beg your pardon, but I am the Rev. Samuel Oscott. You have heard of me, no doubt. I came to ask if you could kindly intercede for me, that I may be better able to support my large and rapidly growing family. Down at Hoetown we had it on good authority that you were the man who gave out the situations at the great and glorious demonstration of the power of mind over matter that will form a portion of the attractions at Omaha the coming summer, or words to that effect, and, as I am an able receiver, I thought I would like some position at your show where my great powers of manipulating the nimble nickel, whether it be in the plate or in the box office, could be more thoroughly demonstrated. And—" Here the Rev. Oscott noticed for the first time that Mr. Wakefield had made his escape, and, as one of the office stenographers politely told the representative from Hoetown that he had better write out his application and send it in in the regular way if he wanted to be next on the list of applicants, the gentleman faded out of sight, and from the recesses of a dark closet there came in view the familiar figure of the secretary, with a look upon his visage which spoke louder than words: "Is it gone?"

Hardly had Mr. Wakefield taken his seat before in came two lads, evidently from the country side. They immediately came to the point and filed verbal applications for positions as ticket sellers at the gates of the big show. They started in to expand upon their aptitude for the coveted places and had gotten as far in their family history as a story about the settlement of their grandfather upon certain broad acres to the westward before the security of the closet referred to hid the secretary from their view.

In the course of half an hour the same scene was repeated nineteen times, and as soon as the soft or irregular footsteps of a stranger were heard along the corridor the dignified secretary would make a spasmodic motion toward the closet.

Between Mr. Wakefield's desk and the dark closet opposite the floor was worn so that the workmen were compelled to relay it with sheets of steel.

When the writer was able to enjoy a quiet talk with the secretary it was after closing hours and at his suggestion the doors were shut and locked. Then the secretary told of how the scene just described occurred daily, and that instead of letting up it was rapidly growing worse. There were hundreds of thousands of thousands more application than there were places to be filled, and every applicant for a position claimed to be particularly adapted for the place aspired to. Men, women, children, wives, mothers, sons, daughters, aunts, cousins, sisters, brothers, fathers and mothers'in-law, brothers and cousins-in-law, cousins-german, widows (both grass and otherwise), came with virtually the same story, until his slumbers and awakenings were so confounded and disarranged that his lifeblood was gradually being sapped by the awful strain and his inability to rest.

Thus was discovered the wherefore of the secretary's premature decline, and the matter was laid before the executive committee at the meeting Friday. Heroic action by them was at once decided upon, and as a result the secretary's office has been supplied with the very latest appliances for handling applicants for positions, which is said to be in every way an improvement upon the device now in use at the White house in Washington, D. C.

Trial of the machine was had Saturday upon an applicant for the position of whipper-in for the exposition. When the man showed his hand he was immediately siezed​ by an arm of the machine, lifted up through an aperture in the roof and hurled into space in the fraction of second, where, according to the most reliable authorities, he is making records at traveling which the oldest inhabitants on the planet Mars have never seen anything to equal.

But Secretary Wakefield has been saved.

WORK ON THE BLUFF TRACT

LANDSCAPE IS RECEIVING ATTENTION

Trees Transplanted After a Novel Manner and Grass Seed by the Ton Wasted on the Ground.

The statement made by Manager Kirkendall of the Department of Bulidings​ and Grounds of the exposition, at the meeting of the Board of Directors last Friday when the charge made by Director Youngs regarding the Auditorium was under discussion, has had the effect of most effectually sealing the mouths of all employes of that department and they are afraid to allude to anything that is not exactly "according to Hoyle." At that meeting, when Director Youngs said that Inspector Baker had told him the galleries of the Auditorium were weak, Manager Kirkendall jumped to his feet and shouted, "That man is not fit to be in our employ a minute!" The other employes in the depatment​ are "not so slow," and they have accepted this statement at its face value and wisely keep their own counsel regarding the things they see.

While this embargo applies to those who are in the employ of the department, there are numbers of people who are in positions to know what is going on, but who are not compelled to "keep it dark" for fear of being discharged. Some of these assert that it is not alone in connection with the erection of the buildings that some peculiar conditions have been noticed but they call attention to some of the strange proceedings in connection with the landscape work on the grounds, which they say is somewhat remarkable, to say the least.

A well known florist of this city, who has taken a great interest in the preparations being made for beautifying the grounds, from the nature of his business, calls attention to some of the things which have been done, which he says indicate that things are running at loose ends.

ULRICH'S DIRECTIONS IGNORED.

"You will remember," said this florist, "that Rudolf Ulrich, one of the foremost landscape men in this country, was engaged to supervise this part of the work. It is not necessary to refer to the changes made in his plans by Geraldine and the manner in which Geraldine, or some one else, attempted to get rid of Ulrich, but matters were finally fixed up about the time Geraldine 'resigned' and work was commenced on the bluff tract. Ulrich took charge of this work and laid out plans and gave explicit instructions just how the work was to be done. Then he went away with the understanding that he was to come back in about three weeks and supervise the transplanting of the big trees which are now standing along either side of the main promenade on the bluff tract. He did not come and no one seems to know whether he is coming again or not. I know, however, that his instructions have not been followed and the work has been done in a careless ignorant and slipshod manner. If those big trees live through the summer it will be nothing less than a miracle. They were not handled according to Urich's instructions, or according to the method employed by any reputable florist who knows his business. They were set out under the direction of a man named Hadkinson, who was brought to Omaha from Lincoln. I understood he acquired all his knowledge of tree planting from books and is a theoretical florist. He is in charge of the landscape work and I suppose he has been putting some of his theories into practice. The big trees were planted in holes about six feet in diameter and about five feet deep. Hadkinson had them filled in with live horse manure and the trees were set in this and then covered with the same material. Everybody knows that this kind of dressing is extremely hot and the result has been that these trees have "bled" nearly all winter; by that I mean that the sap has been running out of the ends of limbs where branches were cut off. How a tree is going to live without sap is a mystery to me."

There are a great many other things about the "landscaping" of this tract which have excited remarks from people who have very little knowledge of such matters, but whose curiosity has been excited by the methods employed. For instance, the full force of the gardener's department was employed for two or three weeks last October in sowing blue grass seed on this tract, a space of about twenty acres, the average being about 135 pounds to the acre. A competent florist who was asked about the matter said that fifty pounds to the acre would be a liberal allowance. But that is not so material as is the fact that there is scarcely a spear of grass to be seen at this time. The seed sprouted in the fall, but it was sown so late that the frost killed the tender shoots and there is absolutely nothing to show for the trouble. Besides this, roadways have been graded through this tract, buildings have been erected on it and material of all kinds has been piled all over the ground, so that it would have been impossible for any grass to grow on the tract if it had been started a year before. The money spent for seed and the wages of the men who sowed it have therefore been entirely wasted and still there is no grass.

REJOINDER FROM MR. YOUNGS.

Mr Baker's Letter to Mr. Kirkendall Calls Out a Hot Shot.

OMAHA. Feb. 14.—To the Editor of The Bee: In your Sunday issue I see published a letter from Inspector Baker to Mr. Kirkendall, manager Grounds and Buildings department, in which he denies ever making a statement to me in regard to the strength of the Auditorium building.

I have no wish or desire to do Mr. Baker an injury. At the last meeting of the directory, after Manager Kirkendall reported on the condition of the different buildings, I considered it my duty as a director to call attention to what had become a common rumor, and which had been verified, in respect to the faulty construction of the Auditorium building. I requested that the matter be looked into and if the building be found in a safe condition there would be no harm done; if found as reported, it could be placed in a safe condition before serious damage was done. Instead of taking these remarks in the proper spirit, Mr. Kirkendall got excited and demanded to know the name of my authority. On learning that it was Mr. Baker he jumped to his feet and exclaimed: "That man is not fit to be in our employ."

Are we to understand from this that men employed in the Department of Grounds and Buildings are under instructions to "keep it dark," and that their situations depend on their following these instructions to the letter? That certain members of the directory are barred from receiving information except such as is doled out at the pleasure of the heads of the departments? The developments in this case seem to point that way, for the next morning after the directory meeting Mr. Baker is "called down," and then appears his letter to Manager Kirkendall—which is kindly given to the press—in which my veracity is called into question, and which leads me to make this statement. Several rumors had reached me as to the instability of the Auditorium building and on the morning of January 12 I met Mr. Baker with Mr. Rosewater in the business office of The Bee. Mr. Rosewater was discussing the advisability of a director general and enumerated cases where money had been wasted through the lack of a competent man in general authority on the grounds. Mr. Baker made no dissent to these sentiments in the presence of Mr. Rosewater, but when Mr. Rosewater was called away the conversation was continued for some time between Mr. Baker and myself and was substantially as follows: Mr. Baker said there was no need of a director general, that everything was working smoothly and there were good men in charge of the different works. I then said: "Mr. Baker, on your reputation as a builder, would you say that the Auditorium building is being properly constructed?" He said: "No, I don't, and I called their attention to certain things in regard to that building, but was told that Mr. Tamm would attend to that. Afterwards Mr. Creedon, the contractor, came to me and wanted me to assist him in making certain changes to strengthen the gallery. I told him I would have nothing to do with the building." I am informed that Mr. Baker has said substantially the same to other parties also.

In Mr. Baker's letter to Manager Kirkendall he says: "Those minor matters you speak of have been attended to, which make the strength of the gallery doubly strong." This goes to show that there were defects and some one "of good authority" had pointed them out to Manager Kirkendall. If these defects have been corrected there could have been no harm in bringing the matter up at the directory meeting and a statement to that effect by Manager Kirkendall would have quieted any doubt existing in the mind of the public. I cannot see what good will result in the publication of a letter from an employe written under such circumstances.

PLANS FOR THE PILING DISAPPEAR.

Another Important Document Missing from the "White Cottage"

The "white cottage" on the bluff tract of the exposition grounds, which is being used as the office of the Department of Buildings and Grounds, seems to be a popular resort for sneak thieves. Documents of various kinds have been in the habit of disappearing very mysteriously, and nobody seems to know what has become of them. Under the custom governing the employes who use the office as headquarters the building is supposed to be occupied by some one at all times. The night watchman is Joe Schwartz, a swarthy foreigner of uncertain age, who has been the body guard of Dion Geraldine for many years. He was brought here from Chicago by Geraldine and put on the exposition pay roll as a "rod man," and so carried for several months, although he did very little work in that line, being employed as an errand bot and spy for Geraldine. Since he has been acting as "watchman" for the cottage the place has been found deserted and the windows unlocked.

The latter part of last week the plan for the piling which is being done for the north viaduct across Sherman avenue was stolen from the white cottage and has not been found. The plan showed the location of each pile and on it the engineer, who supervised the driving of these piles, has noted the data which shows the force required to drive each pile, from which data is obtained the amount each pile will bear. This data had been duly entered on the plan for the information of the engineers and architects, but the entire thing has disappeared. The responsibility for the loss has not been placed and no information is obtainable at the office of the department, all the employes being afraid to open their mouths.

This is not the first time data which might cause contractors a little more work has disappeared from this office, but no steps have been taken to prevent a repetition of the occurrence.

ENTERTAIN EXPOSITION BOOMERS.

Given a Hearing by St. Louis Merchants' Exchange.

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 14.—Sixty-three members of a special traveling delegation, working in the interests of the Transmississippi Exposition at Omaha, arrived today on a special train over the Wabash and are stopping at the Southern hotel. The delegation is composed of representative business men of Nebraska and Iowa, who are visiting all the larger cities for the purpose of arousing interest in the exposition, which opens next June.

At noon the delegates were escorted to the Merchants' exchange, where they were welcomed in an address by ex-Mayor Walbridge. E. J. Cornish of Omaha responded. He explained to the 2,000 members of the exchange the plan and scope of the exposition and made an urgent appeal to them to see that St. Louis was properly represented.

Conditions in Arizona.

Vice President Charles R. Drake of Arizona territory writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion from his home at Tucson that exposition matters are taking a more encouraging turn in his bailiwick. He says that the action of the legislature in refusing to make an appropriation for representation at the exposition has served as a wet blanket on all efforts to arrange for an exhibit, but matters have received an impetus recently through the efforts of Governor McCord, who called the attention of the mining men of the state, at a recent convention held at Phoenix, to the fact that the territory would not be represented by any exhibit unless private enterprise took hold of the matter and made the necessary provision. The governor suggested that the mining interests of the territory subscribe to a fund for making a collective exhibit of the resources of the territory and that an effort be afterward made to induce the legislature to reimburse the subscribers.

Mr. Drake says this suggestion of the governor is being agitated and he expresses the hope that something will come of it.

Congressman Knowles Inspects.

Hon. Freeman Knowles, one of the representatives of South Dakota in the congress of the United States, was in the city yesterday and made it a point to visit the exposition grounds. He was greatly pleased with what he saw and expressed his satisfaction at the substantial evidences of progress and the magnitude of the preparations which are being made. Mr. Knowles said he had been home on a short visit and was en route to Washington, where he said he would take great pleasure in lending all the assistance in his power to Representative Mercer in securing the passage of the Indian bill with the amendment providing an appropriation for the Indian congress in connection with the exposition.

Endorsed by Newark Board of Trade.

The meeting of the Board of Trade of Newark, N. J., last Wednesday night was addressed by Colonel Robert Mitchell Floyd, chairman of the New Jersey exposition commission, and E. O. Halstead, the New Jersey agent of the Department of Publicity and Promotion, both of whom presented the advantages which the people of that state would derive from making a fine showing at the exposition. At the conclusion of their talks a resolution was unanimously adopted endorsing the work and declaring it the sense of the Board of Trade that the state and its manufacturing industries should be well represented.

Design for One-Cent Stamps.

John A. Merritt, third assistant postmaster general, has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that Walter W. Pollock, the agent of the department in Wisconsin, has sent to the Postoffice department a photographic copy of Lamprecht's painting of Marquette discovering the Mississippi river. General Merritt says the photograph will be use din making the design for the 1-cent stamp of the exposition series.

Steamship Company Rates.

The latest advices received by the Department of Transportation are to the effect that the Johnson Express Steamship company and the United States Express company will transport exhibits from England and France, intended for the exposition at half the usual rates, charging full tariff rates on the going trip and returning the goods to the exhibitor free of charge.

Freight Claim Association.

John Nichol, president of the Freight Claim association, writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion to acknowledge the receipt of an invitation to the association to hold its October meeting in Omaha. He says he will lay the matter before the association at its meeting in Denver, May 4.

BIRTH OF THE EXPOSITION.

WHERE HONOR OF ITS ORIGIN BELONGS.

Claimants for the Credit Come Fast to the Front—Advocated by The Bee Years and Years Ago.

There has been a great deal of talk, lately, about the "mystery" which is said to envelope the origin of the Transmississippi and International Exposition. Numerous claims have been made by various parties to the honor of being the first to conceive the idea of holding a great exposition at Omaha, which should exhibit to the world the resources of the great west. These claims have been especially numerous since it has become apparent that the exposition is to be a most gigantic affair and a credit to the originator. There are fully a score of men in Omaha who can relate authentic incidents showing where and when they conceived the idea that a great exposition should be held in Omaha and their claims are supported by circumstantial evidence that leaves little room for doubt as to their correctness, so that all that remains is to establish their relative dates and forever settle the controversy, on the theory that the man who first mentioned the matter and continued to [?]

The greater number of claimants for the honor of being the progenitor of the enterprise base their claims upon incidents occurring just prior to the passing of the resolution by the Transmississippi congress, which called the exposition into being. Some of these claims antedate the congress by a few days or a few weeks. Among these later are ex-Mayor Bemis, R. W. Richardson and L. H. Bradley. The two latter were appointed by Mayor Bemis as delegates to the meeting of the Transmississippi Commercial congress which was held in St. Louis in 1894 and were responsible for the selection of Omaha as the place for the meeting in 1895. It was through the efforts of Mayor Bemis and these two delegates that the Commercial club was induced to take hold of the matter of making preliminary arrangements for the meeting of the congress in Omaha. In November, 1895, just before the congress commenced to assemble, the idea of working up a sentiment among the members in favor of an exposition was discussed by these three and each is positive that he made the first suggestion.

WALSH'S EARLY IDEA.

James Walsh is another aspirant for the honor of being the originator of the exposition. He was a delegate to the congress and in a caucus of Nebraska delegates the day the congress met he suggested the introduction of a resolution providing for an exposition at Omaha, the buildings to be permanent and the show to be held once every five years. This suggestion finally culminated in the preparation of the resolution which was finally adopted by the congress, but the permanent features suggested by Walsh were eliminated.

At the last monthly banquet of the Commercial club President Wattles of the exposition said he had concluded, upon investigation, that Dudley Smith was entitled to the honor of originating the exposition, as he had suggested an exposition at Omaha while gazing upon the beauties of the California Midwinter fair at San Francisco during the winter of 1893-94.

This claim at once disposed of the later claims of Walsh, Richardson et al, although Walsh charges that Dudley Smith was not a member of the delegation to the Commercial congress and had absolutely nothing to say at that time about an exposition at Omaha and took no part in the discussion. Whether this be true or false matters not, for the reason that before the sound of President Wattles' voice had died out, after giving Smith the credit, Secretary Wakefield of the exposition put in a claim which ante-dated that of Smith. Secretary Wakefield related how, at the World's fair, in August, 1893, he was standing on the Midway Plaisance, talking with Allen B. Smith, Frank Brown and two or three other Omaha men, and the suggestion was made by some of the party, he is uncertain by whom, that an exposition would be a great thing for Omaha; that it would pull the money to the west instead of allowing it all to go east.

EARLIEST OF THEM ALL.

In the absence of any further showing this would entitle Secretary Wakefield, or some other member of the little party on the Midway at Chicago, to the palm, but all of these claims are swept aside by a claim which is several years older than the oldest of them and The Omaha Bee stands as the originator and consistent exponent of the exposition idea as relates to Omaha.

The claim of The Bee dates more than ten years prior to the meeting of the Transmississippi Commercial congress in Omaha at which the exposition was given form, and the files of The Bee demonstrate the fact that to The Bee and its editor belongs the credit.

The Nebraska State fair was held in Omaha from 1880 to 1884, inclusive, but was removed to Lincoln after the fair of 1884. At the time of this removal there was a spirited controversy over the action of the State Board of Agriculture in taking the fair from this city and a series of editorials appeared in The Bee at that time, taking the position that the fair, as then conducted, was of no particular advantage to the city and advocating the establishment at Omaha of a permanent exposition. There were a number of these editorials, appearing from time to time during the early part of 1885. The first approved in The Bee of January 22, 1885, immediately after the meeting of the State Board of Agriculture at which it was decided to move the fair to Lincoln, and was as follows:

THE STATE FAIR.

The State Board of Agriculture has decided to locate the Nebraska State fair at Lincoln for the next five years. While Lincoln may congratulate herself upon her victory, we do not hesitate to express our gratification over the action of the board. Omaha has outgrown all such artificial props as the State fair. She has the location, wealth and population for a permanent interstate exposition. Instead of contributing toward the enlargement, maintenance and repair of the buildings on the fair grounds she may as well devote her money and resources toward permanent exposition buildings, just as Chicago and other cities have done. The Driving Park association should at once be merged into an exposition society, whose business it will be to provide the ways and means for collecting and exhibiting nor merely the farm products of the Missouri valley, but the products of our factories, packing houses, mills and breweries. With the great cattle interests centering at our union stock yards, it will be an easy matter to organize an interstate cattle show in connection with the exposition, where the stock raisers of Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri may compete and participate. The cattle brought to Omaha for the exposition may be marketed on the ground and the owners will, therefore, have a double incentive in bringing them here. * * * * It is safe to predict that an interstate exposition such as we have outlined will not only be attended by thousands of Nebraskans where hundreds only would attend the State fair, but it will draw large numbers of people from all the surrounding states and territories.

The efforts of The Bee to establish an exposition in Omaha were not relaxed after the series of editorials referred to, but similar editorials appeared in the paper at intervals and Mr. Rosewater talked exposition to many citizens of Omaha. His ideas and suggestions were in favor of an interstate exposition in which the states immediately surrounding Nebraska should be interested. This idea was presented by him to George W. Lininger, as well as other people of prominence in Omaha, who recall the fact that such suggestions had been made from time to time.

In 1894 the last state fair was held in Lincoln. The revenues of the board had fallen off very rapidly for the last three fairs and Omaha interests commenced agitating the idea of removing it to Omaha. Committees were appointed and preparations were made to prepare a proposition to be presented to the State Board of Agriculture in support of the invitation to hold the state fair in Omaha. At this time the following editorial appeared in The Bee in the issue of December 6, 1894:

A POINTER TO THE COMMITTEE.

Before the committee appointed by the Commercial club, which is to report on the location of the proposed mile track and exposition grounds, takes action it would be well to consider the advisability and feasibility of location on one of the tracts recently purchased for park purposes. Take, for instance, Miller park, which has as yet not been materially improved and cannot be made available as a competitor of Hanscom park. Elmwood park or Riverview park for years. Miller park is almost level and could be readily converted into a driving park, besides affording abundant space for exposition purposes. If there is any need for additional ground on either side it can be secured by the right of eminent domain through the park commission at a fair price. The probabilities are, however, that no additional grounds will be needed, except for railway approaches. The roadway from the city to Miller park is a boulevard and if it was desirable the street railway would be extended from the fort to any point adjacent to the exposition grounds. All the railroads can without a very heavy outlay extend tracks to points within easy reach.

Quite apart from the advantage to be derived from the fact that the city already owns this park and no taxes will ever be collectible thereon, there is the further incentive that all improvements can be made with a view to a permanent exposition or a zoological garden on the plan of Philadelphia and Cincinnati. That would form an attraction all the year around and justify the acquisition. In its present aspect Miller park appears to be a municipal tree nursery which can only be made an attractive park by the expenditure of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

To expend money on leased ground is a reckless waste, besides being a barrier to the erection of sightly and substantial exposition buildings. The fact is every building for public use should be constructed with a view to stability and permanency. Even if Omaha should not get the state fair this project is feasible and would eventuate in an interstate exposition of the first magnitude.

The opportunity for putting the exposition idea into practical execution was presented when the session of the Transmississippi Commercial congress was about to be held in Omaha in November, 1895. This opportunity was taken advantage of and on the Sunday preceding the meeting of the congress, when many of the delegates were in the city and when the congress was the subject of much discussion, the following editorial appeared in The Sunday Bee of November 25, 1895:

A TRANSMISSISSIPPI EXPOSITION.

The construction of the transcontinental railroads gave the first powerful impetus to the development of the transmississippi country. Twenty-five years ago the population of the states and territories west of the Mississippi was 6,435,167, and the states and territories west of the Missouri were credited by the national census with a population of 1,492,896. In 1890 the transmississippi states contained a population of the states and territories west of the Missouri aggregated 5,917,213. In 1860 there were only twenty-one miles of railroad in the country west of the Mississippi. Today the railroad mileage in the same region exceeds 65,000 miles, of which 37,000 miles are boasted by the country west of the Missouri.

The marvelous resources of this vast empire were only in a measure displayed at the World's Columbian exposition. In fact, the exhibits of the western states and territories were to a great extent overshadowed by the international exhibits made at Chicago. Of the hundreds of thousands of people who viewed the World's fair comparatively few carried away with them a distinct impression of the productive industries of the transmississippi states. Even people who live in this section and who have contributed to its growth do not grasp their extent and magnitude.

The inspiration for the Cotton States' exposition now being held in Atlanta doubtless lay in the conviction that an interstate exposition would go further toward promoting the development of the south than any other single agency. That the judgment of the projectors of the Cotton States' exposition was eminently sound is attested by the success that has attended this great undertaking as regards both the number and variety of the exhibits and the financial management of the venture. Not only have the people of the cotton states displayed commendable zeal in contributing toward its success with displays, but several of the Atlantic states, notably New York and Pennsylvania, are creditably represented. The Atlanta exposition has drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors from every section of the country and will be the agency by which a vast amount of new capital will be transplanted into the south.

What has been accomplished for the south by the Atlanta exposition can be accomplished for the west by a Transmississippi Exposition. With a population of 15,000,000 to draw on and a country prolific in material wealth, a Transmississippi Exposition would be an assured success from its very inception. Such an exposition would give the impetus to the westward trend of population and capital for which the people of this section have been striving. It would make known to all the world the capabilities of the west and revive activity in every branch of industry and production.

The Transmississippi congress, which convenes in this city during the present week, is the proper body to take the initiative in formulating the plans for a Transmississippi Exposition. Its recommendation in this matter would have great weight with both the state and national legislatures. Without disparaging any other city ambitious to secure the location of such an interstate exposition. The Bee believes that the claims of Omaha are far superior to those of all other transmississippi points. Its location in the heart of the continent, midway between New York and San Francisco, makes it alike accessible to people east and west. Its railroad facilities in every direction are as perfect as those of any city in the Mississippi valley north of St. Louis. It is the center of the great agricultural belt and within a day's reach, by rail, of the mining region of Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota, and within two days' reach of the great mining states west of the Rockies. Omaha is as near to the Puget sound country as is St. Paul and nearer by 500 miles to San Francisco and southern California.

It is hardly necessary to add that whatever is required of Omaha or pledged for Omaha to make the Transmississippi Exposition a success the business men of this city will carry out to the letter.

CAIRNS' VIEWS ON THE EXPOSITION.

Railroad Man Predicts One of the Greatest of Shows.

On the recent trip of the "Chicago Special" from Omaha to Chicago The Bee reporter enjoyed the privilege of a talk with a number of people from various parts of the country regarding the Transmississippi exposition. C. A. Cairns, assistant general passenger agent of the Chicago & Northwestern said:

"While I do not attempt to deny that our interest in the exposition may have its selfish side, for the Northwestern will get even more than its share of the traffic, with quick time and improved train service, still we have in common with the rest of the western country, a real pride and pleasure in the affair. The view I obtained of the preparations for this great event in Omaha was a genuine surprise to me, prepared as I was to witness the evidence of a stupendous undertaking. Only those who have personally surveyed the site and the buildings in course of construction can fully realize the magnitude of the Transmississippi and International Exposition as projected by its ambitious management. Every place I go I hear nothing but praise of the work and its promoters. Omaha will become the show ground of America and cannot fail to reap a lasting benefit from this exposition, which will be second to nothing ever before accomplished on this side of the water, with the exception of the Chicago fair."

Many of the visiting newspaper men from the west, especially those from Denver, Leadville, Pueblo and other Colorado points, spoke in the warmest encouragement of the exposition and predicted its unqualified success.

Montgomery Ward & Co.'s Building.

Bruce Leffingwell, advertising manager for Montgomery Ward & Co. of Chicago, has submitted the drawings for the building which his firm will erect on the exposition grounds to the architects-in-chief for approval. Mr. Leffingwell will again come to Omaha as soon as the plans are approved and will at once let the contract. He says work will be commenced within ten days after the plans are approved. The building will be a very attractive affair, of classic architecture, and covered with staff. It will cost about $8,000.

Statuary for Nebraska.

Chairman William Neville and Members Poynter and Whitford of the Nebraska Exposition commission are in the city for the purpose of sitting as a committee to pass upon the models of the groups of statuary which are to adorn the Nebraska building. The statuary is to be provided by Kimball Brothers of Lincoln, the staff and plaster contractors on this building, and the models will be submitted to the committee for approval before work is commenced on the full-sized groups.

Miss Tucker of Texas.

Miss Forest Tucker of Galveston, Tex., is in the city as the representative of the Texas Exposition commission, and is engaged in making arrangements for exhibits of a novel and attractive nature which will form part of the display to be made by the Lone Star state.

Arkansas Delegates Coming.

W. D. Mathews, secretary of the Arkansas Exposition commission, writes to President Wattles that the members of that body will visit Omaha February 16. The members will meet in St. Louis February 15 and proceed from that point in a body, leaving that city the evening of the 15th on the Missouri Pacific at 8:10 p. m., and arriving in Omaha Thursday at 12:55 p. m. The secretary says the party will travel in a special Pullman car from St. Louis and that there will be between twenty-five and fifty people in the party.

Enclosed in the letter to President Wattles is a circular addressed to the members of the Arkansas commission, notifying them that arrangements have been completed for a special sleeping car from St. Louis and requesting them to join the party at that point.

For the Labor Congress.

President Bell of the Central Labor union has selected the following committee to make arrangements for the proposed labor congress to be held in this city during labor week: William H. Bell, J. C. Russell, George Clark, F. A. Kennedy and F. M. Youngs. This committee will be reported to the Woman's Board of Managers of the exposition for appointment. The committee will work in conjunction with the convention committee of the woman's board.

Missouri and Exposition Bonds.

The county attorney of Buchanan county, Missouri, the county in which is St. Joseph, has rendered an opinion to the county court, or county commissioners, to the effect that the appropriation of $500 or any other sum by that body for the purpose of making an exhibit of the resources of the county at the exposition would be an illegal proceeding. Not satisfied with this, however, the county officials have asked the attorney general of Missouri for an opinion on the subject.

German Paper's Assistance.

The Louisville Omnibus, the leading German weekly newspaper in the south, devotes two full pages of its issue of February 6 to an article relating to the exposition which is illustrated with several two-column cuts of the main buildings artistically grouped. The Omnibus is one of the oldest German papers in the south, having been established thirty-two years ago. It has a large circulation among the Germans of the southern and middle states.

May Proceed Against Company.

At the meeting of the executive committee of the exposition yesterday afternoon, it was decided that in case the reply of the Omaha Water Works company to the demand made by the exposition officers for water is a refusal to comply, action will at once be brought in the courts to secure a mandamus against the water company to compel it to furnish the exposition grounds with water for all purposes.

Rock Island's Advertising.

General Advertising Agent Bonnell of the Rock Island railway was at exposition headquarters to consult with the officials of the Department of Exhibits regarding the booth to be erected in the Agriculture building by his road. He presented drawings showing the floor plan and the style of decoration of the proposed booth, indicating that the display to be made by this road will be of a most attractive character.

Kimball Will Inspect.

T. R. Kimball, one of the firm of architects-in-chief of the exposition, stated that he had received notice of the charge made at the meeting of the Board of Directors of the exposition to the effect that the galleries of the Auditorium were unsafe, and said he would proceed to make an examination to determine the exact condition of the building within the next few days.

ONE HEAD IS NEEDED

Necessity for a General Manager of Exposition Affairs.

SIX COMMANDERS FIVE TOO MANY

Many Stockholders and Directors Emphatic in Demanding the Change.

DION GERALDINE STILL A POTENT FACTOR

[?]Fine Italian Hand Shows Itself in Many Devious Ways.

[?]ION ON THE GROUNDS IS SERIOUS

Present Troubles Largely Due to the Peculiar Methods Introduced by the Great Director of Construction.

Exposition matters have taken a new turn within the last twenty-four hours. The action of the Board of Directors directing the manager of the Ways and Means department to commence suits against delinquent subscribers to exposition stock, coupled with the fact that the board took no action whatever in the way of making a change in the organization of the machinery of the exposition, has aroused the feeling of soreness and discontent which has been latent since Geraldine "resigned." Many complaints against the management of affairs are again voiced on the streets and in business houses.

Notwithstanding the fact that the Board of Directors did not take any action on the matter of appointing a general superintendent or director general at the last meeting the feeling is almost overwhelming among the members of the directory that some office of this kind should be created and some able man appointed to the position at once. The only reason action has not been taken before this has been a feeling on the part of some of the directors that the matter had once been referred to the executive committee and it might be construed as a reflection on that body to take the matter out of its hands at this time. The directors are agreed that such an officer is absolutely necessary and they are not backward about expressing this opinion, but they differ as to the manner in which the condition should be brought about.

Hon. Alvin Saunders, the venerable resident vice president of the exposition, is most emphatic in his declaration that business prudence demands that there must be a "head" to the exposition. "As matters are now," said the governor very emphatically, "no man appears to know whether a given matter comes in his department or not. As a result it is impossible to get a decisive answer to any proposition. I have had experience in this way and I know what I am talking about. This thing cannot go along like this much longer without striking a snag, and we must have a head to it. The executive committee should control this officer, but he should have full authority in matters of detail."

Director C. W. Lyman is equally emphatic in his opinion that a general manager of some kind should be appointed to take general charge of the work. He is of the opinion, however, that the executive committee should determine just when this appointment should be made. "If the committee wants to carry the load a little longer I don't believe the board should interfere with it. There is no doubt in my mind about the necessity for having an officer to look after all the details and if I was on the committee I should want him right away, but I believe the committee is the best judge of when that time has arrived."

Director G. W. Holdrege said: "I can see the necessity for a general manager, but I believe the executive committee should first take action in the matter as long as it has been referred to them."

WOULD RELIEVE THE COMMITTEE.

Thomas Kilpatrick, another director, said: "If it is thought best to appoint a general manager it should be done at an early day so as to help the exposition and relieve the executive committee and he should report to them on all important matters every day. While they would have control of all his actions yet, at the same time, so long as he conducted his departments with ability and honesty the chances are the executive committee would act towards him just as the directors act at present towards the executive committee. The members of the executive committee have done a great deal of work, but it seems to much to ask them to follow out all the details to the end of the exposition, and I think that the appointment of a manager to execute their orders would be a welcome relief to all of them, and it certainly would be no reflection upon their ability or the work they have done."

CAUSE OF DISAFFECTION.

The Department of Buildings and Grounds is the one which has attracted the greatest attention on account of the nature of its work. People who have any complaints to make do not mince matters, but make charges that are serious in their nature and indicate a looseness in the general conduct of affairs about the grounds that is somewhat surprising.

Among other things it is openly charged that Dion Geraldine is as much in control of the actual workings of the Department of Buildings and Grounds as he was in the palmy days when he signed himself, "general superintendent of the exposition." A subscriber to exposition stock who would probably be classed among "the little fellows"—a mechanic who has occasion to visit the grounds frequently—told a representative of The Bee recently that Geraldine is as much in evidence as ever. "He is on the grounds frequently," said this man, "and always has something to say about how this, that or the other thing should be done. He makes his headquarters at the Dellone hotel and nothing is done on the grounds without his knowledge. He pretends to be here to bid on exposition work and to support this pretense he put in a bid on the north viaduct across Sherman avenue. That bid was based on figures made by H. W. Tamm, the inspector in the employ of the exposition who was put there by Geraldine. Tamm figured too high, though, and Geraldine did not get the work. This contracting is simply a blind, however, because Geraldine is a partner in certain concessions which will form prominent features of the Midway. The whole thing is a close corporation and I don't feel disposed to pay my subscription as long as things go on as they have been going."

GERALDINE'S INFLUENCE.

A contractor who was standing by when these remarks were made joined in the conversation at this point. "Geraldine is not only interested in concessions," said he, "but he is a partner in contracts which are now being carried on. He owns part of the piledriver which this man Green is operating. John Templeton also owns a part of this same machine and Green is simply a figurehead under the direction of Templeton. Templeton is Kirkendall's chief clerk, but that don't prevent him from violating the rules of the exposition and owning an interest in the piledriving machine which gets all the work on the grounds. Green makes out his payrolls and Templeton pays them with his personal check. Geraldine doesn't appear on the surface of this deal, but when you remember that Green was brought out here from Chicago, where he was a plasterer, and put on the payroll at $3 per day and then suddenly blossomed out as a full-fledged piledriver with a machine and succeeded in landing contracts to drive piles when other piledrivers had already closed deals with these same contractors, you will see that he has pretty big pull. I know of one case where a certain piledriver had made an agreement to drive the piles for a certain building and had his machine on the ground. The contractor had a meeting with Geraldine downtown and the job was given to Green. I know the contractor did not see Green, because Green was on the grounds all the time between the time when the deal was made with the first piledriver and the time when the contractor notified the latter that he had decided to give the job to Green.

As an evidence that Geraldinism controls the department, parties point to the fact that the men placed on the department payroll by Geraldine remain there, regardless of their competency, while those who are believed to be opposed to Geraldine's "peculiar" methods soon find themselves out on the cold world. It is openly charged that the reason certain contractors are able to underbid all competitors on exposition work is that they are assured sham inspection and that they may use inferior material with impunity, while contractors who have no pull with Geraldine know they will be compelled to comply strictly with the specifications and use first-class material, costing a higher price. Many instances are cited which go to prove that these reports are based on more than idle talk.

HAS TAKEN TOO BIG A LOAD.

Some of the stockholders who talk about these things blame Manager Kirkendall for allowing this condition of affairs to exist; others are more charitable in their remarks and freely exculpate Mr. Kirkendall from any blame for these conditions. Among the latter is a director who was not present at the last meeting of the board. "'Kirkendall is a most agreeable fellow," said this director, "but he is inclined to be somewhat irascible. I have no doubt this is caused by the tremendous task he has assumed in addition to carrying on his large private business. He is a first-class boot and shoe man and has made a great success in his line, but what does he know about architecture, hydraulics, electrical plants, water works, drainage, and the laying out of grounds?   A man may be a first-class business man, but might not be able to run a machine shop or a hotel. The truth is, Kirkendall has taken a bigger contract than he is able to fill. He cannot be expected to show everything and has had no experience in the building business or in the many other lines which his department covers. I have watched matters pretty closely, and have known for some time that there was bound to be a big explosion. I thought it would come at the meeting last Friday and that is why I did not attend, but the inevitable must come sometime and the sooner some man is put in charge of the whole business who thoroughly [?]nds the details and can give all [?] it, the better it will be for the exposition and everybody concerned."

ABOUT A SUPERINTENDENT.

In line with the statements of the director quoted above it may be stated that things have been at loose ends on the exposition grounds for a long time. Just three months ago the directors authorized the executive committee to appoint a general superintendent of all the departments "who should be a practical builder." The directors left the naming of this man to Manager Kirkendall, but no man has yet been nominated for the position. About one week ago Manager Kirkendall notified the executive committee that he needed the assistance of his chief clerk, John Templeton, outside of office hours, and he asked that he be authorized to raise Templeton's salary to $125. Some objection was raised to increasing Templeton's salary again, as it had been twice raised already; once from $75 to $90 and then to $100, but the authority was finally granted. The next day Mr. Kirkendall appointed Templeton "superintendent of the Department of Buildings and Grounds," and notified the various inspectors, engineers, etc., by letters addressed to each, that he was to be obeyed and respected accordingly. This action brought on a controversy. Mr. Kirkendall denied that he had made any such appointment. Following this action the letters sent to the inspectors, engineers and other employes in charge of the different branches of work, notifying them of Templeton's appointment, were recalled by Mr. Kirkendall, and the following very adroitly worded epistle sent to each of them, dated February 9:

"I find it necessary to have someone on the grounds in whom we can center authority, and I have chosen Mr. Templeton in this capacity; so you will please report to him in all matters and receive from him such instructions as you may require from time to time. I wish you to understand by this that Mr. Templeton will have authority to answer for me on the grounds, relative to all matters pertaining to the various departments."

CENTRAL AUTHORITY BADLY NEEDED.

Previous to having a man in whom to "center authority" the affairs of the department had been in the hands of everybody connected with the work. Each inspector was supreme, likewise the engineer, the gardener and all the other employes who had the shadow of authority over any other person. The inspectors followed the whims of their own sweet wills, the engineer went ahead with his work regardless of the consequences, the gardener conceived schemes and carried them out without knowing or caring how they fit the whole scheme, and nothing but "bull-headed luck" kept things running at all. Even the man who is hired to watch the "office" at nights—another importation of Geraldine's, by the way—went away at night whenever he felt disposed, without securing the doors and windows. These have been found open by other employes, and various documents which would be of interest to certain parties have been missing. Of course no one reported these things, because every employe had always before him the awful fate of one of their number who conceived the idea that as long as he was on the payroll he ought to take as much interest in seeing that the exposition was protected as though he was the director of the department. Acting on this theory he reported some of the higher employes who had "looked on the wine when it was red," and were not attending to their duties. He was discharged almost immediately, and none of the other employes have experienced any desire to follow his example. They recognize the fact that complaints are not wanted, and they act accordingly, but this knowledge does not keep them from talking to others about the way things are being carried on.

These are some of the things the subscribers are talking about these beautiful winter days, and there are enough other details just as freely discussed to make a good sized book.

T. M. T. C. ANNUAL GATHERING.

Officers Elected and Plans for the Summer Generally Outlined.

The Traveling Men's Transmississippi club held its annual meeting last night in the parlors of the Commercial club. The annual election of the board of directors took place and these elected officers for the club. Besides this business the club laid some plans for the entertainment of traveling men who visit the city during the exposition which is the main object of the existence of the body.

The election of directors resulted in the selection of the following: Ed Drew, W. H. Butts, E. S. Streeter, M. Meyer, W. A. Stone, M. W. Rayley, C. W. Close, M. C. Howes, F. O. Fields. This board later elected the following officers of the club: E. S. Streeter, president; M. W. Rayley, vice president; W. H. Butts, secretary and treasurer; W. A. Stone, chairman of the Board of Directors. The president and secretary were re-elected, having held their offices since the organization of the club.

The most important matter decided upon in connection with the exposition was that club quarters should be maintained. They will be located in some prominent building and will be suitably fitted up. They are to be opened up shortly before the exposition, and if they are found to be successful they will be maintained until its close. All visiting themselves of the privileges of the quarters. The Board of Directors will meet on next Friday to examine several suites of rooms and will then make the selection. A suite on the first floor of The Bee building was very favorably mentioned. It was determined to invite any and all traveling men's associations in the country to take desk room in the quarters. This will be provided free of charge.

In order to raise the revenue for the maintenance of the quarters it was decided to make the dues of membership 50 cents a month. The first dues will be collected on April 1, by which time it is expected that the quarters will be opened and can be used by the members of the club.

Some arrangements were made for an entertainment to be given in the parlors of the Commercial club either next Friday or Saturday nights. The affair is to be of a social character. A program of music and speeches will be arranged. Later a banquet will be enjoyed. The entertainment will conclude with a dance and a card tournament. The arrangements are such that it is expected that the affair will be highly enjoyable and successful. Feminine friends of the traveling men will be invited to attend.

One of the very pleasant features of the meeting was the presentation of a handsome gold-headed cane to Secretary Butts as a mark of appreciation of his past efforts in behalf of the club. The cane was purchased by the club membership. The presentation speech was made by J. F. Hommel, who said in his remarks that the club members felt that Mr. Butts had done more than anyone else in building up the club. Mr. Butts made a brief and feeling response.

The Traveling Men's Transmississippi club was organized in last November. Its object is to promote fraternity and friendship among traveling men, to maintain club parlors for the use of its members and visiting traveling men and especially to provide headquarters and entertainment for all travelers' organizations and conventions meeting in the city during the exposition. Among the conventions it will look after is the annual meeting of the Travelers' Protective Association of America. The club membership is now 100 and it is expected that the 200 mark will be reached in the near future.

PLAN FOR A NEW JERSEY EXHIBIT.

Legislature is Likely to Make an Appropriation.

The joint committee on appropriation of the New Jersey legislature has agreed to report in favor of an appropriation of $20,000 for participation in the Transmississippi Exposition by that state. The committee gave a hearing to Chairman R. M. Floyd and E. B. Gaddis of the New Jersey commission regarding the advisability of making an appropriation.

The committee did not approve of the scheme to erect a building at Omaha that might later be removed to Sea Girt, but thought it would be better to utilize the money appropriated to further the New Jersey exhibit. The members admitted that something should be done for New Jersey manufacturers and trades people, and Colonel Floyd was asked to see to it that the state was well represented.

Idaho Man on the Grounds.

Mayor M. Alexander of Boise City, Idaho, one of the leading merchants of that thriving mountain city, was a caller at exposition headquarters yesterday. Mr. Alexander is en route home from an eastern trip and stopped in Omaha at the request of Governor Steunenberg to look over the exposition grounds and look after Idaho's interests. He learned what had been done by State Engineer Mills a few weeks ago and found nothing to add to what had already been done and spent the afternoon in looking over the exposition grounds. He was greatly pleased at the progress which had been made and the magnificent scale on which the whole affair was projected.

EXHIBITS BY GOVERNMENT

WHAT THE DEPARTMENTS WILL SHOW

Justice Will Have Some Curious Articles and a Display of Justices and Decisions—Educational Bureau's Plans.

The Department of Publicity and Promotion has received from Frank Strong, the representative of the Department of Justice on the board of control in charge of the exhibits to be made in the Government building on the exposition grounds, a brief statement descriptive of the exhibit which will be made by the Department of Justice in that building. This description is as follows:

The Department of Justice cannot, from the nature of things, rank with the other and larger departments as an exhibitor, yet we hope to present several interesting features on the same or similar lines followed at the expositions at Chicago, Atlanta and Nashville.

The portraits of eminent men who have occupied the position of attorney general of the United States from the time of Randolph, in 1789, will adorn the available wall space. As the law and Dame Justice herself are too intangible to be themselves presented, it will be necessary to show, in well bound calf, their printed edicts in the shape of statutes and supreme court reports, supported by the counterfeit presentments of well known judges, who for many years have leant dignity and honor to the bench and bar. We also hope to have on exhibition a group of photographs consisting of the photographs of the justice, Hon. David J. Brewer, circuit judges and district judges of the Eighth judicial circuit of the United States, which circuit comprises the states of Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Arkansas, Wyoming, Utah and the territories of New Mexico, Oklahoma and the Indian territory.

We also expect to add an interesting branch in the exhibition of photographs of views connected with United States prisoners and prisons, showing the principal institutions where federal prisoners are confined, the modes of employment and discipline, together with souvenirs illustrative of the ingenuity of men when in confinement and compelled to rely upon their wits and native ability for amusement and such relief from the terrible monotony of prison life as can be gained by carving trinkets in wood and marble. Keys, whittled from a broom handle, and which have actually been used by the marker to effect his release, dinner knives curiously made from small pieces of polished wood and horn, some the creation of Indian convicts—these and such like articles will, it is believed, prove interesting exhibits to everybody. This feature will serve to illustrate the lives of those to whom justice has been meted out, a class of unfortunates growing larger and larger every year, and whose care, maintenance, proper punishment, treatment and general disposal furnish a subject for the best thought and wisest judgment of all good citizens and patriots.

It is also proposed to exhibit, nicely framed and properly and intelligently labeled, a series of blanks showing the routine of the business of the Department of Justice, such as the blanks used in the office of the attorney in charge of pardons, showing the routine of an application for executive clemency from the time of its inception until it is granted or denied by the president; blanks from the office of the appointment clerk, showing the various forms used in commissioning officials of the United States courts; blanks used in connection with the supreme court of the United States, etc.

The Department of Publicity and Promotion has also received from F. W. Clarke, the representative of the Department of the Interior on the Government Board of Control, a description of the exhibits to be made by that department. From this it is gathered that this department will be represented by four of its bureaus, those of Education, Indian affairs, the Patent office and geological survey.

The exhibit of the Bureau of Education is mainly pictorial in character, illustrating the work of education, and wash drawings to illustrate various methods of punishment, the evolution of the modern school house, etc. A prominent feature will be the work of the bureau in Alaska.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs will be largely confined to showing the work of the several Indian schools conducted by the government. Specimens of work of the pupils in all lines will be shown, including carpenter and blacksmith work, shoemaking, tinware, wagons, harness, embroidery, bead work, etc.

The Patent office exhibit will include the usual exhibits of models of American inventions, classified in such a way as to show the influence of the Patent office on special lines of industry.

The Geological survey will exhibit minerals, fossils in rocks in great variety, a series of relief maps and geological models and framed illustrations from publications of the bureau.

ARKANSAS DELEGATES ARE COMING.

Business Men Want to See the Grounds for Themselves.

A delegation of prominent business men from Arkansas, including members of the Arkansas Exposition commission and representatives of the newspapers of that state, will arrive in Omaha tomorrow, reaching the Webster street depot at 12:55 p. m. It is expected that there will be between twenty-five and fifty people in the party. They come to visit the exposition grounds and learn at first hands the progress that has been made and the general plan of the enterprise in order to act more intelligently in preparing for the exhibit which Arkansas is to make of her resources.

The visitors will be met at the depot by a special committee appointed for that purpose by President Wattles, as follows: H. J. Penfold, W. D. McHugh, R. C. Peters, H. E. Palmer, G. W. Holbrook, H. K. Burket, Dudley Smith, W. F. Gurley, E. H. Scott, J. B. Sheean, R. W. Richardson, Euclid Martin and C. B. Havens. This committee will escort the party from the depot to the exposition grounds, where the buildings will be inspected, and the entire party will then return to one of the hotels, where luncheon will be served. President Wattles will represent the exposition, but the members of the executive committee will not be present, as the committee will be in regular session at the time.

The visitors will start for home in the evening.

Models for Government Staff.

The entire lot of models for the staff work which is to embellish the Government building have been received by Alexander & Son, the contractors for the staff work on this building. The full size models were made in Washington under the direct supervision of the architect of the Treasury department, thus obviating any delay in making inspection and approving the models, which would result if they were made here.

Contractor Alexander will put on a large force at once and push the work of casting as fast as possible. He enlarge his shop recently when it became apparent that the models would be delayed and is prepared to work a large force.

Will Have Two Buffalo.

The Page Woven Wire Fence company of Adrain, Mich., proposes to make an exhibit of its fences and in the enclosure thus formed they say they will place a couple of buffaloes. The larger and more corpulent of the pair will be dubbed "Grover Cleveland," and its companion will be called "Ben Harrison."

Applications for Space.

Among the recent applications for space which had been received by the Department of Concessions are the following: Macon, Mo., Shear company, exhibit of latest devices in shears; Roy Armstrong of Lincoln, Neb., exhibit of crayon portraits; Harrison Granite company of Adrian, Mich., exhibit of monuments; Emerson T. Abbott, St. Joseph, Mo., and G. B. Lewis & Co. of Watertown, Wis., space in the Apiary building for bee keeping appliances; Ripley Hardware company of Grafton, Ill., feed cooker in operation in live stock section; Q. & C. company of Chicago, exhibit of railway appliances.

ANNEX TO MANUFACTURES BUILDING.

Executive Committee Extends the Accommodations for Exhibitors.

The executive committee of the exposition took steps at its meeting yesterday afternoon to provide additional room for the constant growing class of exhibitors who want to occupy space in the Manufactures building, by ordering plans drawn for an annex to the Manufactures building in which will be placed the foreign exhibitors. This annex will stand to the west end of the big building, and will face west on Twentieth street. It will be extended as far north as may be necessary and will afford plenty of room for all exhibits in this class which may be accepted. The architects will at once commence the preparation of the plans for this annex and its construction will be pushed.

After wrestling with the matter for several months, the special committee of the executive committee, to which was referred the task of deciding upon the form of tickets, passes, etc., required for the exposition, submitted a report yesterday which was adopted. The committee comprised Managers Lindsey, Kirkendall and Bruce, and Manager Reed acted with them for the reason that the Concessions department is more or less interested in the matter. The committee report awarded the contract for printing the tickets, etc., to the following parties, each being awarded the items enumerated at the prices stated in each case: To the Security Bank Note company of Philadelphia, 2,000 season card passes at $33 per 1,000; 2,000 invitations or letters of transmittal at $55 per 1,000; 13,000 term card passes at $4.60; 2,000 term press passes at $4,60; 500,000, more or less, special day ticketc​ at $1.30; 1,000,000 concessions revenue stamps. To the Rees Printing company, Omaha, 5,000 photo full term lithograph books at $22 per 1,000; 5,000 photo employes' coupon books at $32; 7,500 photo commutation tickets at $17.50; 15,000 one-trip passes at $2.20; 1,000,000 single admission tickets at 15 cents per 1,000; 500,000 single admission night tickets at 15 cents; 300,000 single admission children's tickets at 15 cents; 3,000,000 concessions tickets at 12½ cents per 1,000; 500,000 concession restaurant checks at 12½ cents per 1,000.

For Furniture Exhibits.

Special Commissioner W. I. Kierstead, who is looking after the securing of exhibits of furniture and house furnishing goods, will go to Chicago and Grand Rapids to meet the representatives of several prominent manufacturing houses who desire to close contracts for space in the exposition.

Mr. Kierstead has filed with the Exhibits department an application made by Milton Rogers & Son, the agents for the estate of P. D. Beckwith of Dowagiac, Mich., for an exhibit of round oak stoves, ranges and furnaces. The exhibit will occupy 720 feet of floor space.

WHAT CALIFORNIA MAY YET DO.

Board of Trade Takes Hold of the Matter of Making an Exhibit.

The California Board of Trade has taken hold of the project of making an exhibit of the resources of the entire state and announces that it will take charge of the matter under certain conditions.

The board states that investigation shows that about $15,000 will be required to make a creditable showing, exclusive of any payment for space, and it will take hold of the matter provided the exposition authorities will donate 10,000 feet of floor space to the state free of charge and that the people of California will raise the necessary $15,000 by April 1. If these conditions are complied with the board will proceed to make an exhibit which it is announced will include the following showing:

First—California's mineral resources, including all minerals found here which are used in the mechanics and the arts. Second—Her building material, in woods, marble and stone. Third—The capabilities of her resources. Fourth—The full round of her agricultural products. Fifth—A complete detailed presentation of her horticultural and viticultural products. Sixth—Her illustrated geography, by means of relief maps. Seventh—Her manufacturing capabilities and existing manufacturing industries. Eighth—Her educational progress and advancement. Ninth—The attractiveness of her natural scenery. Tenth—The attractions of her health resorts. Eleventh—The salubrity and clemency of her climate, as illustrated by ornamental and semi-tropical growth and as presented also in thermal statistics; and, finally, by proper statistical facts, her present status and past progress, and the advantages and inducements this state offered as a place of residence.

The people of Los Angeles county have raised $10,000 for making an exhibit of the resources of their county and the Southern Pacific railway has offered to transport exhibits to Omaha for about one-third regular rates on the going trip and return them free.

No official communication has yet reached the exposition authorities in Omaha regarding the suggestion of the State Board of Trade that 10,000 feet of floor space be given to California.

HATCHET IS GROWING FAVORABLY.

Women Working Hard to Make it a Great Success.

The greater part of the time and energies of the Woman's Board of Manager of the exposition is being devoted to getting out the children's paper which is to be issued on Washington's birthday, February 22, for the benefit of the Girl's and Boys' building. The editorial and business staff of the paper, which was appointed some time ago, has opened an office in the Paxton block, and this is the Mecca of the members of the board and the numerous patronesses and the innumerable children who are contributing their services in many ways to help make the paper a success.

The design for the cover which will probably be accepted shows twenty small oval scrolls arranged in the form of a large oval covering the entire front page of the paper. These are twined with cherry blossoms and in each little oval will appear the head of "somebody's little darling." Just what will appear in the blank space in the center has not been definitely decided, there being a division of sentiment between an appropriate poem with etched illustrations and a photograph of a child. One novel idea will probably be adopted because it is a direct violation of all the precedents is to omit from the cover of the paper the name of the publication.

Encouraging reports are being received daily from canvassers for the paper and the circulation manager is rejoicing over the prospect for a big circulation.

Los Angeles Proceeds Independently.

The people of Los Angeles county, California, are going ahead with their arrangements for an exhibit of the resources of their county regardless of what may be done by the northern part of the state or by any of the other counties. They have reserved 2,000 feet of space in which they will make an exhibit, and the first payment for this space, required by the rules of the exposition, has been made.

Teachers' Committee at Work.

The executive committee of the Transmississippi Educational convention met at the Commercial club rooms this afternoon with all the members present except J. E. Utt. A preliminary circular was agreed upon and will be issued in about a week, setting forth the plan and scope of the convention.

The committee also considered the matter of an official badge, but no definite action was taken.

Notes of the Exposition.

A German manufacturer of cuckoo clocks proposes to install an exhibit which shall include thirty-six of these clocks, all of which will be so arranged as to chime every hour, making a chorus of musical sounds.

The lumbermen in the northern part of Wisconsin are seriously considering the necessity for making an extensive exhibit at the exposition in order to regain the trade of the west, which they say has been turned to the south during the last few years.

James P. Cooper of Arcadia, Neb., notifies the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he has a large black eagle, measuring seven and one-half feet from tip to tip, which he offers as a decoration provided it is returned to him in good condition.

The Vienna Tourist Gazette, a German paper having an extended circulation all over Europe, has asked the Department of Publicity and Promotion to furnish it with cuts of the exposition buildings and descriptive matter of the exposition which it volunteers to print in its columns.

Instead of giving a bond, Lewis Root, of the firm of Root & Mattox, that intends to put in a Wild West show at teh​ exposition, has given a mortgage for $3,000 on an eighty-acre tract of land. The conditions of the mortgage provide that if the show is put on and run according to the rules adopted by the exposition people governing such attractions the mortgage is to be void.

Mrs. Angus Cameron of La Crosse, Wis.,

MODELING THE STATUARY

SCUPLTOR ENGLESMAN VERY BUSY

Producing in Clay the Figures that Are to Surmount the Agriculture Building— Brief Outline of the Plans.

The statuary which is to add the finishing touches to the beautiful and stately Agriculture building is being modelled in this city by Sculptor Englesmann, who came here from St. Louis for that purpose. The general character of the statuary was briefly outlined by Architect Cass Gilbert before he started for Europe, and this has been amplified by Mr. Kimball, of the firm of architects-in-chief. From this data the sculptor is now making his clay models, which will be submitted for approval for work is commenced on the full size groups, which will appear on the building.

The central pavilion of this building will receive the greater part of the decoration. Over each of the entrance arches will be spandrels ornamented with figures, while the pavilion will be surmounted by a number of groups. Two groups will represent fountains, figures with water pots being emblematic of the rains which produce moisture for the ground. The signs of the zodiac will also be represented by other groups. Above all of these will be a large, central group, representing Prosperity, supported at either side by figures representing Labor and Integrity. The wide frieze over the entrance arch will be occupied by a figure symbolizing Abundance, and at either end of the frieze will appear the arms of the state and the nation.

On the end pavilions will be groups representing the seasons, Spring, being depicted on the east end and Autumn on the west. Reclining figures in these groups will represent the favorable winds.

Along the front of the building, surmounting the columns, will appear single decorative female figures, bearing cereals and other farm products.

ARKANSAS TRAVELERS IN TOWN.

Business Men Come to See the Exposition and Make Arrangements.

A big delegation of Arkansas business men arrived in Omaha at noon today to make a thorough inspection of the exposition grounds and buildings and learn what has been done to make the Transmississippi and International Exposition a reality. Before they return to their homes they will make arrangements for building an Arkansas building and installing in the main exposition building exhibits of the diversified resources of their state, which they say will equal anything that may be done by any other state in the union.

There are thirty men and one woman in the party, the latter being Mrs. McConnell, wife of Colonel E. T. McConnell, warden of the state penitentiary at Clarksville. The delegation was met at the Webster street depot by a special committee consisting of President Wattles, R. W. Richardson, Dudley Smith, E. E. Bryson, Fred Metz, H. K. Burket, R. C. Peters, H. J. Penfold and G. W. Holbrook. A special trolley car was in waiting and in this the trip was made at once to the exposition grounds, where they made the tour of the grounds. The visitors were most favorably impressed with the appearance of the buildings and the magnitude of the scale on which all the arrangements seemed to be projected.

After making a tour of the grounds the party was escorted to a hotel where luncheon was served, followed by short talks by representatives of the exposition and members of the visiting delegation.

The visitors will remain in the city until tomorrow afternoon. The following is a full list of the party: Colonel W. C. Vincenheller of Little Rock, state commissioner of Mines and Agriculture and president of the Arkansas Exposition commission; W. D. Matthews of Stuttgart, secretary of the commission; Mayor D. L. Cramer, Dr. C. W. Sillin, W. M. Price, sr., W. M. Price, jr., all of Stuttgart; M. R. Coffmann, W. H. Jones, F. P. Hall, M. F. Collier and Frank Meely, Paragould; H. G. Hanna, Pine Bluff; A. C. Hull of Little Rock, secretary of state; H. L. Cross, Bentonville; Judge W. D. Jones, Pine Bluff; B. L. Jones, Ozark; R. H. Jaynes, Mena; Gearge Sengel, Fort Smith; S. C. Dowell, Walnut Ridge; J. R. Harris, Springdale; J. H. Kell, Newport; S. L. Jeffers, Mulberry; J. J. Baggett, Prairie Grove; Frank Hill, Feyetteville; D. S. Helvern, Mammoth Springs; Rev. J. M. Lucey, Pine Bluff; Colonel E. T. McConnell, Clarksville; Lieutenant Elias Chandler, U. S. A., and Prof. J. F. Stinson, Fayettesville; J. T. Pomeray, Eureka Springs.

FOR ILLINOIS STATE BUILDING.

Colonel Hambleton Talks of the Plans of the Commission.

Colonel C. E. Hambleton of Chicago, the secretary of the Illinois Exposition commission, is in the city in the interest of the Illinois commission. He said he had come to look over the Illinois building and to confer with the exposition officials regarding a number of minor matters and would remain in the city several days.

"Our people are taking a great interest in the exposition," said Colonel Hambleton. "I have been going about all over the state a great deal for the last few months, stirring up our manufacturers to make a good exhibit, and I find that they are all thoroughly alive to the situation. The Illinois commission will not make any attempt to make a collective exhibit of the resources of the state, but devote its energies to social amenities after the exposition opens. Before that time comes we will do everything within our power to have the resources of the state well represented.

"We have been making some preparations for the decoration of the interior of our building," continued Colonel Hambleton, "and it probably be ornamented with handsome pictures. These will not be installed as exhibits, but will be simply for decoration. Among these will probably be several large paintings of the World's fair, 10x20 feet in size, which were painted by Mr. Key of Chicago."

Denver Commission Busy.

The Denver exposition commission is working industriously on the project of having Denver represented at the exposition by a city building and it reports that the idea is meeting with great favor. If this scheme is carried out Denver will be the only city in the country with a building on the grounds. The idea has been advanced by several cities, but has been abandoned by them, and the knowledge of this has spurred the Denver commission to renewed efforts.

The trip of members of the Colorado and Denver commissions to Omaha to inspect the exposition will be made some time this week. Governor Adams and Mayor McMurray of Denver have been invited to join the party and each county in the state has been invited to send a representative. In addition to these a number of prominent business men from different parts of the state will be in the party.

Denver's Visiting Delegation.

Secretary A. T. MacDonald of the Colorado Exposition commission has notified the exposition authorities that the excursion of business men from all parts of the state will start from Denver via the Union Pacific next Monday afternoon and will arrive in Omaha at 7:30 a. m. Tuesday. He says the party will travel in two Pullman cars and will be headed by Governor Adams and Mayor McMurray of Denver. Invitations have been sent by the governor to a number of prominent men in various parts of the state to join the party, and Mayor McMurray has sent similar invitations to a number of prominent Denver business men. Secretary MacDonald says that it is expected

A few witnesses, whose testimony was simply to show Hockenberger's official capacity at the time of the alleged embezzlement, were examined by the state last night and the court then adjourned to 9 o'clock this morning, the jury being kept in the charge of Bailiff Kleinkauf with the strictest orders.

This morning the witness sworn gave testimony in regard to the receipts Hockenberger signed as secretary of the Board of Education for moneys received from himself as treasurer of Hall county, the state aiming to show that after taking $3,000 from the county treasury and giving a receipt therefor he only turned over to the school treasurer $2,000 and retained the $1,000, while secretary of the Board of Education.

The members of the County Commissioners' association of Nebraska met in annual session in this city this morning and transacted the preliminary business of the session. A very disappointing feature of the affair is the fact that the members of the association of this county were not present to receive their guests and even when the delegates went to the hall they found it locked and no one present to attend to the matter. The fault seems to lie entirely with the members of the Hall county board. At the last meeting of the board it appointed a committee to receive the visitors and look after their entertainment every member of the board being a member of the committee.

Later in the day the members of the Hall county board arrived in the city and Chairman Ewing explained that owing to an oversight in the date of the meeting the reception committee had neglected matters. He assured the visitors that the matter was deeply regretted and at once the local commissioners set about to make it pleasant for the delegates from other counties. The visitors will be given a drive about the city tomorrow, including a visit to the sugar factory and Soldiers' Home. The commissioners will finish they business tomorrow.

WANT THE CASE DISMISSED.

Omaha Police Commission Matter Before the Supreme Court.

LINCOLN, Feb. 15.—(Special Telegram.)—In the supreme court this forenoon Attorney McCoy filed a motion for dismissal in the police commission case, involving the discharge of W. H. Shoop and others from the force, in which Judge Scott had restrained the board from putting the discharges into effect. The dismissal is asked for on the grounds that a levy has been made by the city council this year sufficient to maintain the entire force, and that the reasons for the discharge are no longer good. The motion was submitted.Attorney Day objected to the motion and said it was important that the court make a ruling that might apply in future emergencies. He wanted to find out whether the police board, or Rosewater, or Judge Scott, was running the police department.

The funding bond case and the Yeiser telephone case will be heard tomorrow.

Columbus Items.

COLUMBUS, Neb., Feb. 15.—(Special.)—Hon. W. H. Westover of Rushville, one of the judges of the Fifteenth judicial district, opened court here this morning, relieving Judge Marshall, who went to Fremont. Judge Albert of this city is holding a session of court at Chadron in Judge Westover's district. A number of cases of only local importance have been disposed of this week, and the docket is kept arranged a few days ahead and the cases are promptly called. Irvin Speice of this city is reporting this week, in the absence of Hon. J. G. Maher, Judge Westover's official stenographer.

The Platte County Democrat, published in this city by Duffy & Son, will be removed to Humphrey the first week in March, where it will continue under the same name. Humphrey is a town of 1,000 people, and has at present but one paper, while this city has six. The Democrat was started here last August.

Mrs. Albert Weissenflush, who lives near Duncan in this county, returned from Omaha yesterday, where she had been to consult a specialist in regard to a cancerous growth upon her right arm. She submitted to an operation and had the offensive member amputated above the elbow. She expects now to regain her usual health.

Fremont Court Notes.

FREMONT, Neb., Feb. 15.—(Special.)—In the district court today the case of the village of Dodge against the bondsmen of their defaulting treasurer is in progress. The claim is that Hoetfelker failed to account for $1,000 of the saloon licenses and $34 of other funds. The evidence introduced today showed that he received $1,000 more than he had accounted for. Hoetfelker was treasurer of the village of Dodge and also of Webster township, and a big man in that part of the county. In October, 1896, he skipped out, owing a large amount of money aside from his indebtedness to the village and township. His shortage with the county was settled by his bondsmen last fall. His present whereabouts are unknown.

gressman Mercer to be present and if possible secure a favorable report on the amendment. The committee consists of seventeen members as follows: James S. Sherman, chairman, New York; Charles Curtis, Kansas; Israel F. Fischer, New York; Frank M. Eddy, Minnesota; Alexander Stewart, Wisconsin; John F. Lacey, Iowa; Horace G. Snover, Michigan; Charles B. Landis, Indiana; Samuel J. Barrows, Massachusetts; Horace B. Packer, Pennsylvania, Charles E. Pearce, Missouri; John S. Little, Arkansas; William A. Jones, Virginia; Elijah B. Lewis, Georgia; John H. Stephens, Texas; William T. Zenor, Indiana; Macenas E. Benton, Missouri. Lately Chairman Sherman has been talking against making any more appropriations for the Omaha Exposition and has been outspoken in criticism of the proposed congress, but the friends of the measure hope to reach the chairman in time to report the amendment favorably. Congressman Lacey of Iowa is against the bill, which is exciting more comment than the opposition of any other member of the committee.

FORT CROOK BOULEVARD.

Either the commissioners of Douglas and Sarpy counties and the South Side Improvement club have been working on the boulevard between Fort Crook and Omaha, in a most mysterious manner, or else Captain Sam. R. Jones, assistant quartermaster, Department of the Platte, is just waking up from a Van Winkle sleep. Captain Jones, in a letter to Congressman Mercer, states that he has received a communication from the quartermaster general of the army in relation to a macadamized road from the garrison to Omaha, but is not able to report on the same. He asks Mr. Mercer who the promoters of the boulevard are and as he has consulted with several parties in Omaha about the matter and as no one seems to know anything about the contemplated work, he is constrained to ask Mercer for information so that he way reply to the quartermaster general's inquiry.

Secretary Cox of the government board said today that every department was actively at work assembling their exhibits for the Omaha exposition and that every member was enthusiastic in predicting the finest exhibition ever made by the government. It will take fifty cars to transport the government exhibit, exclusive of tank cars to haul the salt water aquarium. Representative Schneider of the Fish commission has returned from Omaha, where he went to locate the fish exhibit, and says he was greatly impressed with what he saw of the work being done. Lieutenant Commander Logan will assume charge of the naval exhibit March 1, succeeding Lieutenant Commander Patch, who will be transferred to another station.

SPACE FOR ARKANSAS SHOW

AMOUNT TO BE RESERVED AGREED ON

Delegates Confer with Exposition Managers and Come to a Happy Conclusion in the Negotiations.

The Arkansas delegation laid siege to the expoosition​ headquarters at an early hour and a lengthy conference was held with the officials of the Department of Exhibits. As a result of this space, aggregating 12,000 feet, in the Horticulture, Mines, Agriculture and Liberal Arts, buildings was reserved for that state. This space will be held foor​ Arkansas until March 1, by which time the commission will have decided whether to make the state exhibit in the several main exposition buildings or erect a building and install therein the many evidences of the resources of the state.

The members of the delegation gave vent to many expressions of firm determination to have a showing made by their state which shall be a credit, and they said they believed the revenue necessary to bring about this result could be raised without difficulty after they instill the people of their state with some of the enthusiasm they had imbibed since reaching Omaha.

The Arkansas party was increased this morning by the arrival of James T. Pomeroy of Eureka Springs, who stopped in Kansas City to attend the meeting of the Missouri Exposition commission and learn something of what Missouri intends to do. Mr. Pomeroy asserted most positively that the northwestern part of the state where he lives will be represented by an exhibit regardless of what the rest of the state may do.

"Our section is thoroughly aroused," said Mr. Pomeroy, "and we are going to have an exhibit. I accomplished the Missouri commission on its visit to Omaha and when I returned home and told our people of what the exposition was going to be they all agreed with me that we must make an exhibit and show the world what we have down there in the Ozark mountain country. We have made arrangements to reproduce one of our famous mineral springs and keep it supplied with the natural spring water during the entire exposition and we are also going to have an exhibit of the fruits and other products which are grown in our section. If the state makes a general exhibit we will join with it and do all we can in the interest of a fine exhibit."

After concluding arrangements with the Department of Exhibits the delegation went to South Omaha to inspect the packing houses. After returning from there the party went to the exposition grounds again and started on their homeward trip at 3:05 p. m.

KING CORN TO HAVE QUARTERS.

Special Attention to Be Paid to Its Proper Presentation.

Prof. F. W. Taylor, who attended the meeting held in Chicago in the interest of a movement to increase the demand for American corn as a food product, has returned from that meeting greatly impressed with the magnitude of the undertaking. He attended the meeting as the representative of the Department of Exhibits of the exposition and was largely instrumental in inducing the supporters of the movement to commence operations in Omaha by installing an exhibit at the exposition.

Prof. Taylor stated that the meeting was attended by about 150 or 175 representatives of manufactories of corn products, superintendents of experiment stations connected with agricultural colleges, and others interested in increasing the demand for corn. As a result of the deliberations it was decided to commence active operations at the Transmississippi Exposition by erecting a building to be decorated in a lavish but highly ornamental manner with corn, and install therein the various products made from corn, including the new corn flour about which so much has already been said and written. In connection with this exhibit there will also be established a cooking school at which the methods of preparing edible and attractive dishes of corn products will be demonstrated, and the preparations distributed to the hungry.

Some time in October a meeting of the organization given birth in Chicago will be held in Omaha and plans will then be perfected for an active campaign of education among the people of the United States, including exhibitions at future expositions, and following with a descent upon the countries of Europe, including an exhibit at the Paris exposition in 1900.

LIFE SAVING SERVICE'S SHOW.

Superintendent Kimball Will Make an Interesting Display.

The Philadelphia Item of recent date quotes Superintendent Kimball of the life saving service as saying that the display of life saving appliances at the Transmississippi Exposition will excel the one that attracted so much attention at the World's fair.

Everything that was at Chicago will be at Omaha, and there will be a number of new features. An interesting feature of the exhibit will be a 24-pound shot, the first fired in the United States, to carry a line to a wrecked vessel. It was thrown from an iron mortar to the British ship Ayrshire January 12, 1852. The life savers, volunteers, rescued 201 persons. Only one man was drowned, and he lost his life because he attempted to reach the shore by clinging to the outside of the car instead of awaiting his turn. The shot that carried the line to the vessel crashed into the cabin, sunk when the wreck went down, and for a generation was uncovered with sand. A great storm uncovered the wreck a few years ago; the shot was recovered and presented to Superintendent Kimball, who keeps it as a valuable souvenir of the service. He also has the mortar from which the shot was fired, and both will go to Omaha.

Amount Paid to Geraldine.

OMAHA, Feb. 16.—To the Editor of The Bee: Will you kindly state through the columns of your paper if, when Mr. Geraldine was discharged from service with the Transmississippi Exposition, he was paid his entire salary for the whole term of his contract, that is, the amount he would have received had he remained to the close of the exposition? Subscriber.

Ans.—Geraldine's contract with the exposition management was the same as that of every other employe who is or has been in its employ. He was subject to discharge at any time at the pleasure of the executive committee. Hence, when he "resigned" he was paid to the time when his resignation was accepted—October 30.

Tennessee Visitors.

Fred T. Cummins, a local commission broker who has taken a strong interest in the exposition and who has an extensive acquaintance in the south, has notified the exposition authorities that he has made arrangements for an excursion of Tennessee people which will start from Nashville the first of the coming week and reach Omaha Wednesday. He says there will be about fifty people in the party and they will come for the purpose of visiting this section of the country and seeing just what is being done about the exposition grounds.

Captain of the Gondoliers.

Captain Moretti, the Venetian who was in command of the gondoliers at the World's fair and afterward at the Nashville exposition, has reached Omaha with his company of gondoliers and is negotiating with the Department of Concessions for the privilege of operating the gondolas on the lagoon on the main court. The little party started from Nashville last October, intending to come to Omaha by water, but when St. Louis was reached the severity of the weather and the frozen condition of the rivers made it necessary for them to abandon the water route and they and their boats were brought to Omaha by the more prosaic, but expeditious, railway.

MISSOURIANS COME TO CONFER.

Special Committee Named at Kansas City Calls on the Managers.

The special committee appointed by the Missouri Exposition commission at its meeting in Kansas City arrived in the city and spent the day in consultation with the officials representing the various departments of the exposition. The committee was instructed, when appointed, to confer with the exposition authorities and learn definitely just what arrangements can be made as to space, the amount of space that may be secured in each of the main buildings, the conditions under which Missouri will be allowed to erect a state building and install therein its exhibits and such other information as may be necessary to a full understanding and intelligent decision. The committee was not authorized to enter into any contract or bind the state commission.

Those constituting the committee are S. A. Stuckey of Carthage, chairman; G. W. Watters of Canton, W. W. Morgan of Kansas City, W. J. Rouse of Monroe City, J. W. Damel of Jefferson City, J. Milton Turner of St. Louis.

The members of the committee say there is no doubt about Missouri being represented at the exposition in the most becoming manner. The state commission has already raised $26,000 for a state exhibit and building, and as much more is in sight, making it absolutely certain that the state exhibit will be a most creditable one.

San Francisco Gives Up.

A telegram from San Francisco announces that the committee appointed by the commercial and industrial bodies of that city to consider the feasibility of a California exhibit at the Transmississippi Exposition has decided to report adversely on the project. The committeemen say that a general lack of interest has been manifested by the people of northern California regarding an exhibit and the absence of any assurance that free space to the amount of 10,000 feet would be donated to the state by the exposition management combined to impel the committee to the decision announced.

In view of this termination of the spasmodic efforts of the San Francisco people, the state will probably be represented only by the county of Los Angeles, the people of that energetic county having already raised a fund of $10,000 for the purpose of making a fine exhibit of the fruits and other resources of that section.

Montana's Exhibit Grows.

Vice President Sutherlin of Montana is receiving many specimens of minerals from the mining districts all over the state, according to the Helena Independent, and will soon have a collection which will equal any that can be made by any other state. These specimens are being stored in a warehouse in Helena and will be shipped to Omaha about the middle of March. Mr. Sutherlin is also endeavoring to bring about a plan for an exhibit of Montana horses and is negotiating with the Yellowstone National Park Transportation company to ship a tally-ho coach to Omaha with a full complement of Montana horses and operate it in and about the exposition grounds as a part of Montana's display.

Missouri's Minerals.

The State Board of Geology of Missouri has decided to co-operate with the exposition commission of that state in making an exhibit of the mineral resources of Missouri. All of the members of the board have been made members of the commission. State Geologist Gallagher says that he will be able to make a fine display of minerals.

Exposition Notes.

Alderman J. J. Wolf of Kansas City, special commissioner of the exposition for that city, is conferring with the exposition authorities regarding certain exhibits from his territory.

Prof. John T. Stinson, one of the Arkansas delegation and a member of the faculty of the Arkansas delegation and a member of the faculty of the Arkansas university, is a native of Red Oak, Ia., and will make a flying trip to that point to visit his parents before returning to Arkansas.

Messrs. J. K. Gwynne and R. M. Strother of St. Louis, representing the Liggett & Myers Tobacco company of that city, are in the city to make arrangements for an extensive exhibit which will be made by that firm.

The National Galloway Breeders' association has applied for 4,000 square feet of space in which to exhibit a fine herd of the cattle bred by that association. These cattle will be taken from herds owned by this company in Missouri and are said to be very fine specimens.

CURIOS FOR OMAHA'S SHOW

VERY FINE COLLECTION OF CURIOSITIES

Relics from the Battle of Wounded Knee and Geological Specimens from the Bad Lands and Black Hills.

CHADRON, Neb., Feb. 16.—(Special.)—Chadron will be represented at the Transmississippi Exposition and in a manner which will be bound to attract attention to this city. The exhibit will be in the shape of the Ryan collection of Indian curios, the largest collection of its kind in the United States, comprising, as it does, Indian relics, Bad Lands fossils, Black Hills rubies, wild west taxidermy specimens, wonderful petrifactions, beautiful minerals, magnificent beadwork, western curiosities of all kinds and a large collection of valuable ancient firearms, all collected in this city and vicinity by P. Ryan, while a resident of Chadron, during which time he has been employed as a brakeman on the Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley railroad. Mr. Ryan left with his collection for St. Joseph the first of the week, where he will remain with it until the opening of the exposition. From a historic and educational standpoint the Ryan collection has no peer. It comprises 5,000 pieces of Indian manufacture, covering every article made by the Sioux tribe, and is an object lesson representation of Indian life from the cradle to the grave. Mr. Ryan's collection has long been an object of interest to every visitor to this city and was displayed in one of the largest shore buildings in the city. One of the articles contained in it which is of more than passing interest is the ghost shirt of Big Foot, the leader of the Sioux uprising of seven years ago. It is soiled and stained with blood, and was cut from Big Foot's body by Dr. J. H. McKnight of Long Pine, Neb., after it was cold and stiff in death on the battlefield of Wounded Knee. There are war bonnets, beaded leggings, vests, sashes, squaw's dresses; in fact, every article of Indian manufacture. In the collection of historical firearms, sabers and knives are some very valuable specimens, including some firearms about which are woven tales of daring and deeds of bravery on many battlefields in which the reds and the "paleface" waged war together.

The Ryan collection will be a conspicuous feature of the Transmississippi Exposition. J. F. Ballinger, Elkhorn agent at Rapid City, S. D., is associated with Mr. Ryan.

ARKANSAS COMING IN FORCE

STATE TO BE APPROPRIATELY REPRESENTED

Representatives Pledge Themselves to Make a Creditable Showing of the Wonderful Resources of Their Great Commonwealth.

Yesterday was Arkansas day and a big delegation from that state came to Omaha to imbibe exposition enthusiasm and make arrangements for an exhibit of the resources of that great state, which shall be put to shame some of the better known but less resourceful commonwealths in the great Transmississippi region. Like all the visiting delegations which have preceded them, they were literally carried away with the magnitude of the exposition, although their minds had been partially prepared for what was before them as they skirted the exposition grounds when entering the city via the Missouri Pacific railroad. They will spend today in Omaha, making full arrangements for the exhibit which their state will make and selecting the location of the Arkansas building, a magnificent structure of native wood, stone and marble, which will be erected on the bluff tract as a home for the weary travelers from Arkansas who visit the exposition grounds and examine it in all its glory.

There were thirty men and one woman in the party, which arrived at the Webster street depot at 1:15 p. m. yesterday. The woman was the wife of Colonel E. T. McConnell, warden of the Arkansas penitentiary at Clarksville. The delegation was met at the depot by a special committee, consisting of President Wattles, R. W. Richardson, Dudley Smith, E. E. Bryson, Fred Metz, H. K. Burket, M. C. Peters, H. J. Penfold and G. W. Holbrook. A special trolley car was in waiting and in this the trip was made at once to the exposition grounds, where they made the tour of the grounds. The visitors were most favorably impressed with the appearance of the buildings and the magnitude of the scale on which all the   arrangements seemed to be projected, and expressed themselves very freely in the most complimentary manner regarding the energy and ability which had compassed such a great work and advanced it so far toward completion.

After the main court and the bluff tract had been thoroughly inspected the party boarded the special car again and the return trip was made down town. The visitors were escorted to a hotel, where luncheon was served.

TALKING IT OVER.

After the cigars were passed President Wattles assumed charge of the gathering and welcomed the visitors to the city. He reviewed the history of the exposition, giving its origin and the work which has been done to bring the enterprise to its present advanced condition. He called attention especially to the fact that every state in the Transmississippi territory will be represented in the exposition, and a state with the magnificent resources of Arkansas should not allow this opportunity to escape when such great benefit will result from making a showing.

W. J. Vincenheller, chairman of the Arkansas Exposition commission, responded on behalf of the visitors. He said he had greatly enjoyed going over the exposition grounds and confessed to the greatest surprise at the progress which was everywhere in evidence. He promised his own hearty co-operation and pledged the assistance of his state. He spoke of the diversified resources of Arkansas, including the most extensive zinc deposits in the world, virgin crests, iron, antimony, coal and many other minerals, and predicted that every member of the Arkansas delegation will return home fully determined that the state shall make a good showing, notwithstanding the last legislature made no appropriation for that purpose. He promised an exhibit from that state which shall be a credit to the exposition as well as to the state.

Before taking his seat Colonel Vincenheller said that Governor Jones had wished very much to be of the party, but had been detained at home by the cares of state, but had sent along a representative in the person of the secretary of state, Mr. A. C. Hull.

GLORIES OF ARKANSAS.

President Wattles asked Mr. Hull to respond for the visitors as the representative of the governor. Mr. Hull said he had been requested by the governor to prepare a few facts with which to regale the people of Omaha, and in order to do properly he said he put them in writing and would read them. He prefaced his remarks as follows: "We are here as representatives of a great state for a purpose. We came in obedience to your very courteous and urgent invitation. You had a purpose in inviting our commission to visit your elegant city and your grand and magnificent exposition in preparation. You wanted Arkansas, with her varied and wonderful possibilities, added to your great enterprise, to the end that your exposition might be augmented in its attractions, and its success more complete. Indeed may I not say your "show" would not be complete without Arkansas? Again, we take, it, you wanted our state given a fair opportunity to be represented properly along with her sister states of the great transmississippi section.

I assure you, gentlemen, that we properly appreciate your kindly considerations of our interests, and also your very hearty reception of our commission and your characteristic western hospitality. But with all this I want to say we are here for business as well as to enjoy your generous entertainment, and we are here to look after the interests of our state somewhat ourselves, and I am sure you will not think us selfish for that. When we come to consider the possibilities of our state, its wonderful resources and its varied interests, we feel sure that we have nothing to lose, but everything to gain, by an exhibition of products at your coming exposition.

Arkansas has an area of 53,850 square miles. The topographical features of the state present along its southern boundary an undulating, hilly country, timbered with pine, oak and hickory. Going northward the surface is more and more hilly, although in central and northeast Arkansas are found large prairies. Crossing the Ozark mountain region to the north the traveler finds himself in a hilly, broken country, 1,500 feet above the level of the country. The large rivers, the Mississippi and the Arkansas, the one bounding the state on the east, the other dividing it almost in half, are navigable for steamboats. White river, the Ouachita and Red rivers are navigable for quite a large number of miles each. Railway transportation facilities have not kept pace with the progress of the country, being yet very inadequate to the development of our resources. In other states the railroads have pioneered settlement and development and civilization; in Arkansas they have succeeded settlement, and up to the present time we only have about 2,600 miles of railroad within the state.

All the manifold resources of the great state as a cotton producing, lumber producing, mining, grazing and manufacturing section were set forth in detail, with figures to support the statements, many of which must have fallen with surprise on northern ears not accustomed to hearing the actual facts in regard to the commonwealth now taking on its second growth.

PEOPLE DOWN THEIR ALIVE.

R. W. Richardson, special commissioner for the exposition to Arkansas, said the Arkansas people had been invited to come to Omaha in order that they might gain a more intelligent idea of the exposition than could be acquired in any other way. The speaker reviewed the pleasant experiences he had encountered when he went to Arkansas as the representative of the exposition. He had found the people alive to the importance of the enterprise to them and ready and willing to take hold of the matter with energy. Out of that feeling grew the visit of this delegation and he pleaded with the visitors to take advantage of the opportunity offered them to show the world the resources of their state, which have been almost unknown outside of the state. He advised the people of the state to sever forever the cords which bind them to the dead past and rise triumphant to greet the dawn of a new present, bidding farewell to the venerable Arkansas traveler while inscribing upon his antiquated saddlebags the filling legend, "Requiescat in pace."

Rev. J. W. Lucey of Pine Bluff, a Catholic clergyman, made a witty reference to the fact that "talk" is a staple article in Arkansas, and then discussed eloquently the effects of exposition upon commercial matters, saying that they are a strong factor in binding together the different commercial sections. He promised that his state would take part in the exposition and assist in making it a great success.

George Sengel of Fort Smith, president of the State Board of Trade, said the previous speakers had so thoroughly covered the ground that nothing remained to be said, but he proceeded to make an eloquent speech in which he sketched briefly the importance to the entire world of such a great exposition of the magnificent resources of the fertile west, demonstrating beyond all cavil that this great section produced within its borders everything needed for the comfort and luxury of man, and declaring that when this fact is proved to the commercial east the attitude of that section toward the west and south will be greatly changed.

VISIT TO THE BEE.

This closed the post-prandial exercises and the entire party proceeded in a body to The Bee building, where they called on the editor and inspected the building, afterward visiting the office of the Department of Publicity and Promotion and securing a large amount of literature relating to the exposition.

The visitors will remain in the city until this afternoon or this evening and will then start on their return trip.

About one-half of the visitors are members of the Arkansas Exposition commission, but all are equally enthusiastic regarding the absolute necessity of their state participating in the most extensive manner possible.

W. D. Matthews, secretary of the Arkansas commission, is an old resident of Nebraska. He was the founder of the O'Neill Frontier, one of the leading newspapers in this state, and was later register of the land office at that point. He is now the editor and proprietor of a newspaper at Stuttgart, and is a most enthusiastic exposition boomer. Speaking of the outlook in his adopted state for participation in the exposition, Mr. Matthews said: "We will be here with a good exhibit, but the exact extent of it depends somewhat upon the arrangements we will be able to make with the exposition management here. We will put up a state building and will make a state exhibit ,regardless of what happens, and we are going to make some of the other states ashamed of themselves. Our building will be a hummer and no mistake. We will have all the material donated by the various industries in the state and will have a fine place. It will be constructed of native woods, including some of our finest finishing woods, also several different kinds of building stone arranged in most effective and striking manner, and our native marbles. We have some of the finest building stone and marble produced in this country and we propose to show to the people who visit this exposition that we have about all the fine building material that is required to erect the finest mansion that may be conceived. We will get all this building material donated by the people who are in this business, as I have said, and all the cost incident to the erection of the building will be the labor of constructing it.

BY PRIVATE SUBSCRIPTION.

"We have no state appropriation," continued Mr. Matthews, "but we will raise the necessary money by private subscriptions. We have estimated that we will require about $15,000 to erect our building and make a fine exhibit and we anticipate no especial difficulty in raising that amount."

The following is a full list of the party: Colonel W. C. Vincenheller of Little Rock, state commissioner of mines and agriculture and president of the Arkansas Exposition commission; W. D. Matthews of Stuttgart, secretary of the commission; Mayor D. L. Cramer, Dr. C. W. Sillin, W. M. Price, sr., W. M. Price, jr., all of Stuttgart; M. R. Coffman, W. H. Jones, F. P. Hall, M. F. Collier and Frank Meely, Paragould; H. G. Hanna, Pine Bluff; A. C. Hull of Little Rock, secretary of state; H. L. Cross, Bentonville; Judge W. D. Jones, Pine Bluff; B. L. Jones, Ozark; R. H. Jaynes, Mena; George Sengel, Fort Smith; S. C. Dowell, Walnut Ridge; J. R. Harris, Springdale; J. H. Keil, Newport; S. L. Jeffers, Mulberry; J. J. Baggett, Prairie Grove; Frank Hill, Fayetteville; D. S. Helvern, Mammoth Springs; Rev. J. M. Lucey, Pine Bluff; Colonel E. T. McConnell, Clarksville; Lieutenant Elias Chandler, U. S. A., and Prof. J. F. Stinson, Fayetteville; J. T. Pomeroy, Eureka Springs.

MUSIC FOR THE EXPOSITION.

Director Kimball Secures Endorsement of His Detailed Plan.

The music of the exposition has at last taken definite form and the plan outlined by Musical Director Kimball some time ago has been approved by the executive committee and active operations under it will be commenced at once. A the time of his appointment, the latter part of last month, Prof. Kimball outlined his idea of the general plan on which the music of the exposition should be conducted, which was set forth in The Bee at the time. Since then Prof. Kimball has been endeavoring to make arrangements for the preliminary steps in carrying this plan to a successful issue, but the first step was only taken yesterday, when he first appeared before the executive committee and explained his plan at length and received the approval of the committee. He then named Thomas J. Kelly of Omaha to take charge of the work of organizing the local chorus and drilling it in the music to be selected for the occasion. This also met with the approval of the committee and Mr. Kelly was duly installed.

OUTLINES HIS PLANS.

After this was accomplished Prof. Kimball was seen at the Millard hotel and went more into detail in regard to his plan. "I propose," said he, "to have a series of choral concerts during the entire exposition and to invite the famous choral societies of all our western cities to come here and give complete works with the assistance of the best obtainable artists. As a nucleus for this work I wish to organize a local chorus composed of the singers of Omaha, South Omaha and Council Bluffs, to the number of about 200. There will also be engaged an orchestra which shall be thoroughly competent to do any work which it may be called upon to do and which shall be sufficient, in itself, to attract music-loving people by its concerts at stated intervals. In each branch of this orchestra there will be soloists of high artistic merit.

"Mr. Kelly will commence organizing the local chorus at once. The members of the chorus will be given instruction in the music they will sing and I shall come here occasionally, as my duties permit, and rehearse them, but the bulk of the work will fall upon Mr. Kelly up to the time the exposition opens. The members of the chorus will be given free admission to the auditorium on the days when concerts are to be given, and this will give then the great educational advantage of hearing more concerts and more great soloists in a given length of time than would be possible in any other way. For these advantages each member of the chorus will be charged a fee of $5 to defray some of the incidental expenses preliminary to the work.

"I wish to invite all the representative singers of this city to unite with this chorus. I hope that there will be hearty and prompt co-operation on the part of our home singers and that we shall be able to show to visitors and music lovers that home talent can vie with that of other western cities and with that of the most effete regions of the east.

"An exposition chorus book will be compiled for the use of the chorus and this will serve as an interesting memento of the occasion which every member of the chorus will wish to preserve."

CHORAL MASTER WELL KNOWN.

As organist and choir master of the First Methodist church and director of the Mondamin Choral society of this city, Mr. Kelly has been identified with the musical progress of Omaha during the last few years in a way that gives him a wide and favorable reputation among the music loving public. Mr. Kelly says he will commence at once with the organizing of the local chorus and a general meeting of singers will be held Monday evening of next week, at some place to be announced later, for the purpose of forming the organization. In the meantime Mr. Kelly said he would be glad to see anyone wishing to become members of the chorus at his studio, or those desiring to make inquiries by mail could do so by addressing him at exposition headquarters in the Paxton block.

Messrs. Kimball and Kelly will go to Chicago some time next week to conclude arrangements regarding the orchestra which is to be organized for the exposition. Negotiations have been pending for some time with one of the most prominent orchestral organizations in the country and these may be concluded at any time.

To Boom King Corn.

The Department of Exhibits received a telegram yesterday afternoon from Prof. F. W. Taylor, a representative of the department, who has been in Chicago attending the meeting called to take steps to put on foot a movement calculated to expand the market for American corn. The telegram read as follows: "The American Maize propaganda organized; it will start with a special corn palace at the Transmississippi and International Exposition at Omaha and will meet there in October of this year in the first annual convention to arrange for the expositions of 1889 and 1900."

WATER IS AT HAND

PRESIDENT WOODBURY MAKES AN OFFER

Head of the Omaha Water Company States His Position.

HOW THE EXPOSITION MAY BE SERVED

Terms Which All Parties at Interest Regard as Favorable.

WAIVES THE QUESTION OF EXTENSION

Matter of Supply Put on a Business Basis with a Liberal Reduction from the Schedule Rates.

There was another turn in the controversy between the exposition management and the Omaha Water company yesterday when President Theodore C. Woodbury of the later company arrived here from Portland, Me. Some days ago the exposition directory through a committee asked President Woodbury what terms the company would make in furnishing water to the exposition. Soon after his arrival here yesterday President Woodbury sent an open letter to the exposition committee naming the terms of the company. His letter is addressed to Gurdon W. Wattles, chairman of the committee, and others, and is as follows:

OMAHA, Feb. 17, 1898.—Gurdon W. Wattles, Chairman Committee, and Others: Gentlemen—As you know, a formal answer to your communication inquiring the terms under which the Omaha Water company would furnish water to the exposition has been delayed by the negotiations respecting the amount of water which would be required and the terms under which payment required and the terms under which payment would be made, in order to justify the expenditure which would be necessary to furnish it.

I now desire, having fully discussed with your committee those preliminary matters, to make you a formal reply.

In December last the water company made an offer to furnish the exposition company with free water and to take its plant at cost, provided the company was assured of possession of the property until 1908. This hope of the water company and of the exposition company having been frustrated by injunction, to which we were not a party, and in which it is evident we cannot be justly treated, must be abandoned.

During the pendency of these negotiations the water company has supplied the exposition with free water, to the value of over $10,000, and is still continuing to supply it.

To meet your request we shall need to expend a large sum of money. We are advised and believe correctly that we are under no legal obligations to furnish this water. But should we stand upon our legal rights we should be forced into a position of antagonism toward the executive committee and others with whom our relations have been harmonious and satisfactory, and we would injure the exposition, in the success of which we are concerned. Under these circumstances the water company will waive those questions and will connect its mains with those of the exposition company and furnish water to an amount not to exceed 2,000,000 gallons in any one day at 5 cents per 1,000 gallons, upon the following conditions:

The indebtedness due from the city to the company shall be first paid and all litigation in respect thereto dismissed and settled.

The bill of the Omaha Water company to the exposition company for water furnished shall be paid monthly.

If the city legally orders pipe and hydrants on streets where it is now laid on the exposition grounds the water company will take the same at its cost and cost of laying.

It is also understood as a part of this proposition that the exposition committee will see to it that the payments for water furnished will be duly made.

Meter to be furnished by the water company and one-half the cost paid by the exposition.

The lagoon to be filled first time by water company free of charge.

The charge for water at above rates to commence on May 1, 1898. Water for construction purposes to be furnished free of charge. Very respectfully,

ENDORSED BY CITY OFFICIALS.

The settlement of the exposition water controversy suggested by President Woodbury of the water company in his communication to the exposition officials is very favorably regarded by city officials. At least Councilman Stuht says it is all right, and, as he has come to be regarded as expert authority on water works questions, no one is inclined to dispute his position. Stuht says that as far as he has had an opportunity to consider the proposition it seems to be very reasonable. He says that all that he sticks for is to prevent any action that involves waiving the right of the city to purchase the plant and that aside from that he is willing to compromise on a reasonable basis.

Chairman Burnester of the committee on fire, water and police said that he had not read the letter, but if its contents had been correctly stated to him he is inclined to think the water company has made a very fair proposition.

Councilman Bechel takes a similar view, but suggests that of course it will be impossible for the council to take any official notice of the matter until the injunction that is now in force is dissolved. He thinks that the proposed arrangement is very equitable, as what the water company will receive from the exposition association will not aggregate enough to pay for the cost of the plant on the exposition grounds, to say nothing of the extra pumping facilities that will be required.

Mayor Moores did not express a decided opinion, as he had not had an opportunity to fully consider the proposition, but he said that at first glance it seemed to promise a very fair adjustment of the difficulty.

As far as the city is concerned the demand of the water company involves nothing beyond what has already been conceded. The city now owes the water company $43,373.60 for hydrant rentals during the last six months of 1896, and $87,040 for the same service during 1897. The 1896 bills have already been approved, the warrants drawn and the amount charged against the water rent fund. Before the warrants were delivered to the water company an injunction was granted and the warrants still remain in the hands of the comptroller. The 1897 bills have never been approved on account of the injunction, but there is no disposition to question them, and the prospective issue of refunding bonds is designed to cover this item. As the only thing that prevents these bills from being paid anyway is the injunction, the members of the council take the position that the water company is only asking from the city what is conceded to belong to it. There are a number of small bills pending for water furnished to the city hall and jail, which are not taken into consideration, and are the only bills on account of which there is now any controversy between the city and the water company.

EXPOSITION DIRECTORS PLEASED.

Herman Kountze, one of the Board of Directors of the exposition, who has opposed all attempts to make the extension of the water company's franchise a part of the deal whereby the exposition was to secure water, had this to say regarding the proposition: "I am inclined to favor the proposition substantially as Mr. Woodbury presents it. I am opposed to legal proceedings whenever they can be avoided. I also believe that all suits now pending to restrain the payment of indebtedness which the city owes the water company should be dismissed. The rate which the water company proposes to charge the exposition I believe to be a reasonable one, being one-half the legal rate, and the rate which I believe is charged the large interests in South Omaha. The question of extending the company's franchise does not enter into this matter and should have no bearing on it."

W. S. Poppleton, plaintiff in the suit against the city officials to restrain them from granting the water company any extension of its franchise, said: "I am pleased to see that the question of extension is waived in this proposition. I have been principally interested in that and it seems to me that the citizens have won a victory. I am also pleased to see that the water company agrees to purchase the pipes now laid on the exposition grounds if the city orders such mains laid, and also that the company agrees to furnish water at 5 cents per thousand gallons, which is less than the legal rate, and also agrees to furnish water free until May 1. I do not care to say anything further at this time."

INTEREST OF THE LITIGANTS.

John L. Webster, an exposition director and the attorney for J. E. Baum, the surviving plaintiff in the suit brought by Dan Farrell and J. E. Baum against the city to restrain the payment of hydrant rental to the water company, replied as follows to a question regarding his views of the situation: "I am disposed to favor the acceptance of the proposition of Mr. Woodbury as to the terms and conditions on which water shall be furnished to the exposition. Mr. Baum must speak for himself as to the dismissal of the injunction suit, but I believe he feels as I do, that an immediate settlement of this water question is desirable, and that concessions on the part of the water company should meet with reciprocal treatment on our part."

J. E. Baum, the plaintiff in the suit against the city heretofore referred to, was inclined to be reticent about what he would do in the matter of dismissing the injunction suit, saying he first wanted to consult with the others interested in the suit in the interest of the Commercial club. He also said that he believed the water company had used the exposition as a club to force concessions [?] the city and had failed in its efforts [?] declined to say whether he would or would not dismiss the suit.

COST TO THE COMPANY.

Manager Bierbower of the water company said the proposition submitted by President Woodbury meant the expenditure of at least $250,000 by the company in enlarging its pipes.

the water company in increasing its capacity in order to supply the demands upon it. "The details of the changes which will be necessary have not been fully decided on," said Mr. Bierbower, "but enough has been decided to settle the approximate amount which we will have to expend. We will require an additional engine at the Florence pumping station, which will cost about $75,000, and additional mains will have to be laid and other changes made, which will bring the total cost up to about the figure I have named. We will have to increase our capacity from Florence, but just how that shall be done has not been definitely settled. We will not put in another 36-inch main, but some change will have to be made to enable us to supply the large amount of water the exposition will require."

PRESIDENT WATTLES PLEASED.

President Wattles of the exposition expressed great satisfaction at the outcome of the efforts which have been made to secure a favorable proposition from the management of the water company. He and Manager Kirkendall of the Department of Buildings and Grounds were in conference with President Woodbury all day yesterday and the entire executive committee of the exposition, President Wattles and President Woodbury were in session at exposition headquarters last night until a late hour, a conclusion being reached and the reply of President Woodburg being formulated at that meeting. Mr. Wattles said he believed that the proposition submitted is a fair one, all things considered, and the rate offered the exposition for water is a very reasonable rate, being the same rate at which water is supplied to the South Omaha packing houses and other large consumers.

The members of the executive committee also expressed themselves as satisfied with the outcome of the efforts which have been made to secure water and fire protection for the exposition.

GALLERY OF STATE GOVERNORS.

One of the Features of the Nebraska Building.

Assistant Secretary Dearing of the Nebraska Exposition commission is making a collection of life size portraits of all the governors of Nebraska with which he proposes to decorate the Nebraska building on the exposition grounds. He has written to all the former governors and to Governor Holcomb and has asked each to loan to the commission a portrait of himself for this purpose.

In this connection it is an interesting fact that all but one of Nebraska's governors are now living and are residents of the state over which they once ruled as chief executive. Governor David W. Butler is the only one of the whole line who has been gathered to his fathers, the others being as follows: Robert W. Furnas, Brownville; Silas Garber, Red Cloud; Albinus Nance, Lincoln; James W. Dawes, Crete; John M. Thayer, Lincoln; James E. Boyd, Omaha; Lorenzo Crounse, Calhoun.

ULRICH IS COMING TO OMAHA.

Landscape Artist to Take Active Charge of the Exposition Work.

Manager Kirkendall of the Buildings and Grounds department says that Rudolf Ulrich, the landscape architect who has been engaged by the exposition to supervise the landscaping of the exposition grounds, will arrive in Omaha within a short time and take active charge of the work of preparing the grounds. The last letter received from Mr. Ulrich by Mr. Kirkendall announced that he would probably come to Omaha in company with Mr. Stierlinger, the consulting electrical engineer of the exposition, about February 20.

Coloradans Clamor for Space.

The Denver Rocky Mountain News says that applications for space in the exposition are being received in large numbers by the Colorado Exposition commission, the applications covering exhibits in fruit, minerals, manufactured goods of all kinds, etc. The State Beekeepers' association has asked for a large space and the News says meetings are being held all over the state by various interests for the purpose of arranging for exhibits.

Cafe and Vaudeville.

The Department of Concessions has awarded to Henry Willard a concession for a cafe and vaudeville show on the Midway. A very handsome building costing about $10,000 will be erected by Mr. Willard and in this will be conducted a high-grade cafe with a vaudeville entertainment continually in operation.

Offer from a Glee Club.

Dr. B. F. Lang of York has submitted a proposition to the Nebraska Exposition commission to bring the York Transmississippi   Glee club to the exposition for a season. He says the club includes soloists, both vocal and instrumental, including performers on the violin, trombone, cornet, piano, etc.

Applications from Nebraska Schools.

State Superintendent Jackson, who is in charge of the educational exhibit which will be installed under the director of the Nebraska commission, reports to the commission that applications for space have been received from 298 rural schools, 184 high and graded schools, eight state institutions, five private schools, five denominational schools and one chautauqua, representing 501 schools with a teaching force of 2,267. The superintendent says he is all ready to allot space as soon as the plan for the booths shall have been decided on and the exact amount of available wall space determined.

From Montana's Mountains.

Vice President Sutherlin of Montana writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he is collecting Montana's mineral exhibit and now has about seven or eight carloads which he will ship to Omaha early next month. Mr. Sutherlin says this exhibit will be one of the finest mineral exhibits ever seen in the west.

Collection of Curios.

Pat Ryan of Chadron, the owner of one of the most extensive private collections of Sioux Indian curious, fossils, petrifactions, minerals, taxidermy specimens and western relics in this section, is in the city trying to make arrangements with the Nebraska commission to give him space in the state building for the exhibition of his collection.

ARKANSAS PICKS ITS SITE

ARRANGEMENTS FOR EXHIBIT CONCLUDED

Delegates Decline to Start Home Until All Details Are Decided—Happy Termination to a Very Pleasant Visit.

The Arkansas delegation spent all of yesterday in fixing upon the arrangements for the exhibit to be made by their state and did not leave the city until 9:30 p. m., their car being attached to the regular Missouri Pacific train which leaves at that hour. Before leaving they settled definitely that Arkansas will erect a building and install therein its exhibit, including all lines except horticulture, which will be shown in the Horticulture building. A beautiful building of native wood, stone and marble will be erected and an exhibit will be made which will include the many products of the state. It is estimated by members of the commission that about $15,000 will be required to carry out this plan but they express the greatest confidence that this will be raised without difficulty.

The party had fully intended to start for home at 3:05 p. m., and their car was attached to the regular Missouri Pacific train which leaves at that hour, but just as the conductor was about to give the signal to start the members of the party concluded that they had better stay until they had fully determined just what should be done. Up to this time it had been generally agreed that an exhibit should be made, but it was not determined whether a building should be erected or not. In this uncertainty space aggregating about 12,000 feet had been reserved in the Agriculture, Horticulture, Mines and Liberal Arts buildings, and no definite location for a building had been decided upon. A number of the commissioners insisted that this was a very unsatisfactory outcome of their long trip and that more definite arrangements should be made. It was at this point that their car was disconnected from the train which at once steamed out of the depot.

SELECTING A SITE.

The exposition officials who were present announced that General Agent Phillippi of the Missouri Pacific would send for a yard engine and haul the special car of the party direct to the exposition grounds, where the visitors might select a location for their building. This was a delightful issue out of their difficulty and the delegation warmly thanked Colonel Phillippi. It was no sooner said than done, and the party alighted from their car on the bluff tract and proceeded to make a careful examination of the few desirable locations remaining unassigned.

A selection was soon made in the minds of the visitors and then the party returned down town and went direct to the exposition offices. Architect Kimball was summoned and an agreement was quickly reached, the visitors being given the site they most desired. They then released the space in the main buildings which had been reserved, with the exception of the Horticulture building, and all the preliminary arrangements were complete.

The site decided upon for the Arkansas building is about 200 feet north of the west end of the Horticulture building, one of the most desirable sites in the entire tract assigned to the state buildings. It will face one of the broad main avenues leading to the Horticulture building and will be between that building and the grand plaza, where people will enter the bluff tract from the main court. The site selected for the Missouri building is in a corresponding location near the east end of the Horticulture building.

The intervening time until the departure of their train was spent by the visitors in visiting the various exposition departments and acquiring all kinds of information. They were plentifully supplied with exposition literature by the Department of Publicity and Promotion and when they started for home they were profuse in their pledges of a fine exhibit from the "home of the razorback."

SENTIMENT OF THE VISITORS.

After all arrangements for the Arkansas exhibit had been completed Judge Jones of Pine Bluff, a member of the Arkansas Exposition commission, voiced what seemed to be the unanimous sentiment of all the party regarding the making of a fine exhibit. "We will have an exhibit, beyond all question," said the judge. "The extent of it will depend entirely upon the manner in which our people support our commission. I do not anticipate any difficulty in raising the amount we believe is necessary, about $15,000, for putting up a building, installing a fine exhibit and maintaining it during the exposition. We have very little time in which to make our preparations, but I believe we can do it. It is most unfortunate that our legislature made no appropriation for this purpose, but we can only make the best of it now. We have abundant resources from which to raise this money and we will be here this summer with an exhibit that will make people open their eyes."

The party was increased yesterday morning by the arrival of James T. Pomeroy of Eureka Springs, who stopped in Kansas City to attend the meeting of the Missouri Exposition commission and learn something of what Missouri intends to do. Mr. Pomeroy asserted most positively that the northwestern part of the state where he lives will be represented by an exhibit regardless of what the rest of the state may do.

"Our section is thoroughly aroused," said Mr. Pomeroy, "and we are going to have an exhibit. I accompanied the Missouri commission on its visit to Omaha and when I returned home and told our people of what the exposition was going to be they all agreed with me that we must make an exhibit and show the world what we have down there in the Ozark mountain country. We have made arrangements to reproduce one of our famous mineral springs and keep it supplied with the natural spring water during the entire exposition and we are also going to have an exhibit of the fruits and other products which are grown in our section. If the state makes a general exhibit we will join with it and do all we can in the interest of a fine exhibit."

CALL FOR FIRST CHORUS MEETING.

Prof. Kimball Eager to Begin on the Exposition Organization.

A meeting to organize the Exposition chorus will be held Monday evening of next week. The first meeting will be held in Hayden's music hall, at Sixteenth and Dodge streets, but permanent quarters will be secured in time for the next meeting. This first meeting will be in the nature of a rally and all who desire to join the chorus or assist in making the music of the exposition a success are invited by Musical Director Kimball to be present at that time and make their desires known. Prof. Kimball will be present at the meeting and will explain the details of the plan on which musical work of the exposition will be based. He wishes it understood that singers in Omaha and Council Bluffs, South Omaha or in the surorunding​ towns who will agree to attend the rehearsals and comply with the requirements of the rules will be admitted to membership in the chorus and made welcome.

"The executive committee of the exposition has just consented to a little detail I have been urging for some time," said Prof. Kimball, "and that is to agree that arrangements shall be made whereby people may gain admission to the Auditorium building to hear the concert without first paying a fee to get into the exposition grounds. I believe this is a strong point in one respect. At the World's fair this little detail raised a great storm of protest, and I believe it injured the attendance at the concerts. I think we can secure more of an audience at the concerts by this means than would otherwise attend, as they will not be compelled to pay double fee when they wish to only hear the concert and go away again.

"The people should not lose sight of the fact that the Auditorium is to be supplied with the finest organ in this part of the country. The exposition authorities made arrangements some time ago with an eastern company to construct one of its finest organs and place it in the Auditorium building. This instrument will have 2,700 pipes, three manuals, fifty stops, and will be used in connection with the orchestra. It will also be used for organ concerts and arrangements will be made with some of the most eminent organists in the country to come here and give recitals on it.

"I am now carrying on negotiations with the well known Theodore Thomas orchestra and expected to close an engagement for that organization to come to Omaha.

"The time is short in which to accomplish the great amount of work which must be done in order to make the music of the exposition a credit to the great enterprise, but with the hearty co-operation of the musicians of Omaha, South Omaha, Council Bluffs and the surrounding territory we will have a Musical department that will be a credit to any musical center. The time has come when no mere personal impulse should be allowed to interfere with the carrying on of a project which is bound to reflect credit on the entire community if properly supported. The result accomplished by these cities will be taken as a criterion by which the musical culture of Nebraska and Iowa will be judged and personal pride should impel every singer in this entire section to put his shoulder to the wheel and give all the assistance in his power."

WORKING FOR THE EXPOSITION.

Process of Raising Funds is Progressing Satisfactorily.

The executive committee of the Council Bluffs Exposition association held its regular meeting last evening. The reports from the committees on soliciting funds showed that the business portion of the city had been quite well canvassed, with the exception of South Main street, and it was suggeste dthat​ the work be extended to other parts of the city beside the business portion, as considerable funds could probably be secured in this way. None of the committees had entirely finished their work and from the interest manifested and the amounts already subscribed the prospect looks bright for the carrying on of the work as previously laid out.

The Council Bluffs buttons have not met with as ready sale as was at first hoped for, but quite a number are being sold. It was decided to ask the women of the city, who are at work in the interest of the children's building and the wigwam, to assist in selling the buttons, as a portion of the money raised by them goes to the children's building fund and a part to the fund for the wigwam. The committee on grounds reported that the grounds could be had free of charge, provided that no competitive exhibit be made, in which case the site would cost $1,000.

A report was circulated yesterday that the proceeds of the Dickens party given last evening by the art department of the Women's club was to benefit the Council Bluffs Exposition association, but such is not the fact. Secretary Judson stated that he was daily receiving quite a number of names and addresses of persons wishing to entertain guests during the exposition. Prof. Hisey stated that in the homes of the children that attend the Bloomer school about 2,000 guests would be entertained, all being friends or relatives in the homes. The children of this school represent about one-tenth of the school enrollment of the city, and a conclusion can easily be drawn as to the number of families in the city that will entertain company outside of the strangers that will seek lodging here.

Tennessee Visitors.

Fred T. Cummins, a local commission broker who has taken a strong interest in the exposition and who has an extensive acquaintance in the south, has notified the exposition authorities that he has made arrangements for an excursion of Tennessee people which will start from Nashville the first of the coming week and reach Omaha Wednesday. He says there will be about fifty people in the party and they will come for the purpose of visiting this section of the country and seeing just what is being done about the exposition grounds.

FOSTER IS THE MAN

General Superintendent of the Exposition is Elected.

ACTION TAKEN BY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Scope of the Authority of the New Official.

IN FULL CHARGE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK

Will Direct and Oversee Completion of the Buildings.

MAJOR CLARKSON SECURES ONE PLUM

Appointed to Assist the President in Entertaining Visitors and to Officiate on Ceremonial Occasions.

Now the exposition has a general superintendent who has executive authority over the affairs of the gigantic enterprise and will carry out the policy outlined by the executive committee. A. C. Foster, a well known citizen of Omaha, is the man and he was appointed by the executive committee at its meeting yesterday afternoon. He is to take possession of the new office at once.

The Board of Directors of the exposition at its meeting on November 15 adopted the report of a special committee to which had been referred a resolution providing for the appointment of a director general. This committee reported that it found the situation did not warrant the appointment of director general at that time, but it recommended the appointment of a general superintendent in these words: "The work of all departments might be energetically pushed, perhaps more satisfactorily than by any other arrangement, by the apointment​ of a general superintendent, a practical builder, at a maximum salary of $200 per month, whose office and headquarters shall be upon the exposition grounds."

In order to meet the emergency which then existed the special committee defined specifically a part of the duties which should devolve upon this officer by providing that he "should be placed in charge of all work in the line of construction of any or all of the departments, with the express duty of overseeing and pushing all such work to energetic completion."

MEETS WITH APPROVAL.

Since this section on the part of the Board of Directors there has been considerable discussion of this matter and a growing demand for the appointment of some well known and capable man to fill the position. This strong sentiment on the part of the general public and many members of the Board of Directors has been referred to in the columns of The Bee a number of times. The appointment of Mr. Foster meets with the general approval of people of this city. Although the appointment was not made until late yesterday afternoon, it was soon known on the streets and public opinion was freely expressed. Mr. Foster is well known in this section, having been connected with the Swift Packing company for a number of years as general manager.

CLARKSON DRAWS A PRIZE.

The executive committee also made another appointment at the meeting yesterday, Major T. S. Clarkson drawing a prize in the shape of an appointment to assist the president in entertaining distinguished visitors and officiating on ceremonial occasions. The appointment was made at the request of President Wattles and the salary was fixed at $100 per month till June 1 and $200 per month after that date.

Manager Reed turned over to the executive committee a job lot of trouble in the shape of fifteen propositions for the concession to sell roast beef sandwiches on the grounds. This concession is in great demand and the fifteen applicants have been making life a burden to Manager Reed for several months. He asked the executive committee to relieve him of the responsibility of dciding​ between the numerous applicants and the matter was made a special order for the meeting of [?]

Manager Kirkendall reported several bids for the construction of the two restaurants at the east end of the viaduct across Sherman avenue from the main court to the bluff tract. The bids were considered too high and action on them was deferred until tomorrow.

PUSHING WORK OF CONSTRUCTION.

Good Progress Being Made on the Exposition Buildings.

The pleasant weather which has prevailed in this section for some time has been taken advantage of to the fullest extent by the contractors and all others having to do with the work of preparing for the great exposition which is to be opened to the public June 1 of this year, and the result is that the building on the grounds are in an advanced state, which removes any doubt as to the exposition being opened on time.

The Mines building is ready for the reception of exhibits. This building has been finished for some time, all that remains to be done being a small amount of staff work around the exterior near the ground, which cannot be completed until all the frozen debris lying about is removed.

The Machinery and Electricity building will be in the same condition as the Mines building within a very few days.

The Manufactures and Agriculture buildings are in an advanced stage of completion. The staff work is almost completed and rapid progress has been made during the favorable weather.

The outside of the Auditorium building is nearly covered with staff and plaster and will be finished within a few days. The interior is lathed and plastering will be begun nside​ very soon.

The Liberal Arts building is making rapid progress. The staff on the outside is nearly all in place and plastering is proceeding rapidly on the inside.

The Art buildng​ is ready for the staff workers. The woodwork of the east section will not be finished until after the plasterers shall have completed their work on the inside, and the west section is in almost the same condition. The roof is finished on both sections and the skylight covering has been put in place.

The Government building is making more rapid progress than any of the other buildings and is completely under cover, except in the center, where the dome will appear. Engineer Farnan is in charge of the work and is pushing it with all possible speed. "You may say that this building will be ready on time," said Mr. Farnam most emphatically yesterday to a Bee representative.

BAUM WILL DROP HIS SUIT

Principal in One of the Suits Will Drop His Prosecution.

AIDS IN SETTLING WATER CONTROVERSY

Injunction that Restrains City from Paying Its Bills to Be Withdrawn and the Warrants Issued to Company.

There is every indication that the long-pending controversy in which the water works company, the city, the exposition association and several individuals have been more or less involved will be settled at once. J. E. Baum will withdraw the injunction proceedings against the city, the city will pay the back bills of the water company, and the latter will reciprocate by preparing at once to furnish the exposition with water.

The first positive statement with regard to the withdrawal of the injunction proceedings was authorized by Mr. Baum yesterday morning. He said that the stipulations had already been prepared and the suit would in all probability be dismissed some time today. In speaking of his action, Mr. Baum said that as far as his individual interests were concerned he would prefer to stand pat and fight it out with the water company. He contended that the city had not received the service that it was entitled to and that the business men had been compelled to pay exorbitant insurance rates and support a more expensive fire department on that account. Moreover, as he looked at it the concession of the water company was no concession at all, as it simply proposed to furnish water for the exposition. But as the contention for an extension of the right of purchase had been waived and the exposition could not wait for the end of a continued litigation, he had decided that it would be the better policy to drop the suit and allow the controversy to be settled. While the rate at which the company proposes to furnish water for the exposition was no better than was given to other equally heavy consumers, it was probably the best that could be obtained, and since the proposition had been endorsed by the exposition directory he was not inclined to stand in the way of a settlement.

READY TO MAKE CONNECTIONS.

Manager Bierbower stated in reply to an inquiry that connections between the mains of the company and the water system of the exposition grounds would be made just as soon as the conditions of President Woodbury's proposition are complied with. "We are ready to make the connection at once," said he, "and it remains for the exposition management and others interested to carry out the conditions named. As soon as connections are made the exposition grounds will have fire protection and our company will proceed to make the alterations necessary to carry out our part of the agreement and furnish the water required for the exposition. The connections already made with the grounds supplies all the water required to keep the lagoon at its present level and supply water for construction purposes. This water has been supplied by us free of charge since the commencement of work on the grounds."

President Wattles has been authorized by the executive committee of the exposition to enter into a contract with the Omaha Water company for supplying water under the conditions imposed in President Woodbury's letter, and a contract carrying out this agreement has been drawn up and is awaiting his signature. He said he would sign the document as soon as it had been examined and found in proper form and this would close the matter as far as the exposition is concerned.

Pictures of the Babies.

Owing to the failure of numerous Omaha babies to "look pleasant" the Woman's Board of Managers of the exposition has concluded to postpone their celebration of Washington's birthday for a few days. It was decided some time ago to have the front cover page of The Hatchet embellished with the counterfeit presentments of twenty Omaha youngsters and to have the text of the sheet likewise ornamented at frequent intervals. There was a flood of applicants for these positions, but it developed that every loving mother decided that "her darling" must have a new picture "expressly for the Hatchet," regardless of whether the birth anniversary of the nation's paternal ancestor would have to be postponed to await the pleasure of mamma, the youngster and the photographer. Of course this argument was unanswerable in the minds of the managers of the paper, and the father of his country will have to wait until the fates decide that the proper time has come. It is announced at the headquarters of the Hatchet that the delay will be for a very few days only and that the paper will be issued shortly after the time first fixed.

An Exhibit from France.

The Department of Exhibits is receiving most encouraging reports from France of the preparations which are being made there by manufacturers and others who will make exhibits at the exposition, and there is every indication that the French section of the great enterprise will be one of the most extensive and attractive portions in the entire grounds. Frederick Mayer, the special commissioner of the department at Paris, writes to the department that great interest is being taken in the matter by the people in France and a commission has been formed, comprising fifty of the most prominent manufacturers in the vicinity of Paris. This commission, he says, meets at the rooms of the Chamber of Commerce and has received official recognition from that body. The most energetic preparations are being made for exhibiting their wares and Mr. Mayer predicts that the exhibit will be an unusually fine one. He says the prospective exhibitors are making elaborate preparations, preparing booths, cases and other attractive means of making the exhibit a memorable one.

The Commercial club of West Superior, Wis., has appointed a committee to arrange for an exhibit at the exposition.

Vice President W. H. Sutherlin of Montana has notified the Department of Exhibits that he will be in Omaha in about ten days to make further arrangements regarding Montana's exhibit.

The drawings and specifications for the Transportation and Agricultural Implement building have been completed by the architects and turned over to the Department of Buildings and Grounds to advertise for bids for its construction.

The Utah Exposition commission is completing its arrangements for extensive exhibits of the diversified resources of that state and is collecting the materials at Ogden, preparatory to shipping them to Omaha. The secretary of the commission reports that the exhibit will be a very representative one.

The millers of Minneapolis are agitating the plan of making an extensive exhibit of flour at the exposition in an attempt to offset the large exhibit of Nebraska made flour which is to be made by all of the millers of Nebraska, in connection with which will be a cooking school where the excellent quality of Nebraska flour will be demonstrated.

The Nebraska Ceramic club has been assigned space in one of the most desirable locations in the Liberal Arts building gallery and the application of the club for 320 square feet of space, signed by Mrs. S. G. Lund, president, and Mrs. M. F. Morrill, secretary, has been accepted. A committee of the club members spent several hours at the office of the Exhibit department making the selection of a desirable space and finally settled upon the location referred to.

Mrs. Emma Homan Thayer, a member of the Colorado exposition commission, and the commissioner in charge of the fine art exhibit to be made by the artists of the Centennial state, was present when the Nebraska women selected their space and she at once applied for and was granted the 640 square feet of space adjoining that selected by the Ceramic club. Mrs. Thayer says the artists of Colorado will make a fine exhibit of ceramics, paintings in oil and water colors and many other articles of exceptional excellence.

F. R. Anson, secretary of the Chamber of Commerce of Salem, Ore., has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that a movement is on foot in that state to make an exhibit at the exposition and offers his assistance in helping it along. Special Agent C. E. Llewellyn of the Department of Publicity and Promotion is in that state endeavoring to awaken enough interest among the business interests to insure an exhibit. Oregon and Washington are the only two states in the entire transmississippi region which are not making active preparations to be well represented at the exposition. Surface indications appearing within the last week or so point to an effort of some kind to make a showing.

PLANNING THE WORK FOR MUSIC.

Director Kimball and Assistant Kelly Laying Out Their Campaign.

The Musical department of the exposition has gotten down to work and reports matters as coming along finely. A large attendance on Monday night, at the annex of Hayden Brothers' music room, Sixteenth and Dodge streets, is confidently looked for. President Wattles is expected to address the meeting, and Mr. Kimball, director of the Music department, will speak on the general plan and scope of the music of the exposition, followed by Thomas J. Kelly on the immediate object in view, and the future of Omaha in choral work. All interested in music are invited to attend this meeting.

Director Kimball, accompanied by Choral Conductor Kelly, will go to Chicago on Tuesday evening and while there will arrange the detail plans of the exposition music as to programs, orchestra and soloists as far as possible.

Mr. Kelly has been asked about the expense to the chorus members in addition to the $5. There is none, he says. The gowns of the young women will not have to be concert gowns, but simple white or light colored summer dresses, such as they would wear on the porch at home. The men will be asked to wear blue serge coats, and white duck trousers, a suit which has been the popular thing for the last few summers. The fee of $5 can be paid by installments, if necessary, although the committee prefers to have it paid in advance. However, no barrier will be placed in any one's way, in this regard. The sum of 35 cents per week paid or saved from now on to the exposition opening, and 50 cents on exposition day will admit members free of charge to all musical entertainments in the Auditorium for five months. No fee will be necessary to get into the Auditorium, as a separate entrance has been provided adjacent to the street car line. The local chorus will be heard evenings.

Director Kimball is enthusiastic over the action of the executive committee, and he expects to have a department that will reflect credit on the western country. Mr. Kelly expects to come back from Chicago with a stock of fresh choruses for immediate use. Rehearsals will be pushed vigorously when once begun.

If enough people come over from Council Bluffs for the organization meeting, the choral conductor will arrange to have special rehearsals at Council Bluffs in order to save the additional journey to the members.

MINNESOTA COMMISSION REPORTS.

Surprised at the Magnitude of the Enterprise.

The Minnesota Exposition commission has made a report to Governor Clough on its recent visit to Omaha to look over the exposition grounds and learn the status of the whole matter. Regarding the impressions received during the visit the commission has the following to say:

The exposition association has well advanced toward completion a group of buildings beautiful in architecture and magnificent in their proportions, which promise to exceed in capacity, as well as in the architectural effect, anything offered to the public in the United States, with the single exception, perhaps, of the White City, which dazzled millions during the year 1893 in Chicago. These buildings are but a part of the preparation now being made for an exposition which there is abundant evidence will be second only to the Columbian exposition of 1893. The plans of the management are upon so comprehensive a scale, the responses from the various states in the transmississippi district have been so cordial and the co-operation of the United States government, as well as many foreign nations, has been so prompt and liberal that it is certain that the exposition will be greater than any that has preceded it in this country with the possible exception of the Centennial exposition and the World's Columbian exposition, to which reference has already been made. Any idea which any one of our people may have entertained [?] in character or even confined to a few of the western or northwestern states was quickly disabused by the evidence which was produced and what we found had already been accomplished. We desire to impress upon you that the work of the management has been so well done as to leave no shadow of doubt that the exposition will be all that is claimed for it.

We found that, with the exception of our own state, and possibly a few of the other remote western states and territories, provision had been made for state representation, either in the buildings or by buildings to be erected by private subscription, or by funds provided by legislative appropriation in some of the states where legislation has been possible. We believe that Minnesota with her varied products, her almost limitless wealth of resources, should not fail to be represented in some way at this exposition.

After setting forth some of the reasons why Minnesota should be represented in a proper manner the report continues:

We believe, therefore, it is of the utmost importance that some steps be taken to adequately represent Minnesota as this exposition, and, therefore, appeal to individuals, communities and organized bodies throughout the state to give support to such effort as may be made by the commission already appointed by his excellency the governor to take this matter in charge.

Great Art Exhibit Promised.

Paul Charlton, chairman of the committee of the Western Art association, which has in charge the Art building and exhibit at the exposition, announces that matters in that department have reached a stage where he is able to say with authority that the art exhibit of the exposition will be on a very high plane of excellence and that the paintings which will be exhibited will be of such a class as to place the art exhibit of the Transmississippi Exposition among the most renowned exhibitions of this country. He says he is not yet ready to make an announcement of the pictures which will be on exhibition, but gives the assurance that when this announcement is made the most critical will have no reason to complain. There will be only about 600 or 800 pictures in the entire collection and the number of desirable works available will be sufficient to allow of the most careful discrimination in choosing pictures for the exhibition.

Mr. Charlton also says that the sculpture which will embellish the Art building will be of a high order. The designs for this were prepared by Eames & Young of St. Louis, the architects of this building, and the figures are being modeled by Sculptor Bringhurst of St. Louis under the immediate supervision of the architects named. Each of the eight pediments of this building will be surmounted by a draped female figure eight feet in height, and each pediment will enclose a group of figures of artistic and appropriate design. At the base of each flag staff will be figures of cupids and the wide frieze which will appear in the panels will bear colored figures in high relief.

Applicants for Space.

Among the applications for space which have been received by the Department of Exhibits within the last few days are noted the following:

Benjamin B. Manchester of Kansas City asks for space in which to exhibit six "nickel in the slot machines" of a mechanical nature, showing working models in full operation of a full rigged ship, a railroad engine, electric plant, water plant, etc.

The Barber Asphalt Paving company has applied for 417 feet in the Mines building in which to exhibit a full line of asphalt as used for street paving purposes, including all the stages from the digging of the raw material from the famous "lakes" in the island of Trinidad to the finished pavement.

The F. & E. Sanborn company of Omaha asks for 250 feet in which to show the stock food manufactured by it; the Union Sewer Pipe company of Minnesota applies for forty-eight feet; the Ashgrove White Lime association of Kansas City asks for forty-eight feet; the Blue Valley Plaster company and the Omaha Coal, Coke & Lime company, both of Omaha, each apply for forty-eight feet; Max Geisler of Omaha applies for forty-eight feet for showing his system of dress cutting, and H. S. Albright & Co. of Ogdensburg, Pa., wants eighty feet for a display of boots and shoes.

Plan for Securing Flowers.

E. C. Erfling, a local florist, has submitted a novel scheme to the Department of Publicity and Promotion for securing a desirable lot of floral exhibits from the southern portion of this continent. He suggests that an advertising car be sent toward the south, plentifully supplied with advertising matter to be thoroughly distributed all through that section on the outward trip, and that the objective point of the trip be Mexico, where the car, which should then be empty, should be filled with some of the many fine specimens of cacti, century plants and other tropical plants which grow in profusion in that region and can be had in any quantity for nothing. For the purpose of ensuring beneficial results, he advises sending two or three florists with the car to assist in distributing the advertising matter and to attend to the securing of plants. He says any number of most attractive and desirable plants might be secured in this manner at little cost and transplanted in the exposition grounds for embellishment.

FOSTER AND CLARKSON BEGIN

NEW EXPOSITION OFFICERS TAKE HOLD

General Superintendent Assumes Control at the Grounds and Will Devote His Time to Work Out There.

General Superintendent A. C. Foster, the new executive officer of the exposition, has assumed the duties of his position and spent the day in familiarizing himself with the many complicated details of the work of the Department of Buildings and Grounds. Manager Kirkendall turned over to Mr. Foster the huge pile of correspondence relating to various matters connected with the department and accompanied him to the office of the department on the exposition grounds. For the present Mr. Foster will devote himself to pushing the work of construction and preparation at the grounds and will spend almost his entire time there.

Major Thaddeus S. Clarkson, the newly appointed chief of the entertainment bureau of the exposition, has assumed the duties of his position in looking after the entertainment of visitors and distinguished guests, including the making arrangements for the celebrations which will form an important part of the exercises connected with the exposition. The appointment of Major Clarkson to this important position has been the subject of extended comment since the action of the exposition management became known, and the concensus​ of opinion has been that no better selection could have been made. The major's extended acquaintance, together with his experience in military matters, are regarded as giving him especial qualifications for filling this position with credit to himself and to the exposition. As soon as the necessary arrangements can be made, Major Clarkson will be assigned an office on the sixth floor of the Paxton block, where he will make his headquarters.

CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR DESIRES.

Western Delegates Want to Spend a Sunday in Omaha.

C. E. Brainard of Ogden, Utah, transportation manager for the national organization of the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor, proposes a plan to President Wattles which indicates that that organization has no particular sympathy with the movement in certain quarters which has for its object the closing of the gates of the exposition on Sundays.

Mr. Brainard urges that arrangements be made with railroads whereby the western roads passing through Omaha will give stopovers to all delegates en route from the west to the meeting of the national society of the Christian Endeavorers which meet in Nashville, Tenn, July 6 to 11. He suggests that the time when these western delegates leave their homes should be so arranged that they would be able to spend Sunday, July 3, on the exposition grounds, that a meeting night be held there and the delegates given an opportunity of seeing the exposition, and that the delegates might remain in Omaha until the evening of July 4, thus arriving in Nashville in ample time for the opening session of the convention.

Mr. Brainard says the Omaha branches of the societies have signified their approval of the plan he suggests and he says he has also received letters of approval from other societies in the west. He also states that John Willis Baer, the general secretary of the society, living at Boston, has favored the plan.

A plan similar to this was followed last year when the convention of the organization was held at San Francisco. The railroads granted stopover privileges at Salt Lake and Ogden, and the delegates gladly took advantage of the opportunity of varying the monotony of a long trip. Mr. Brainard urges President Wattles to confer with the railroad authorities regarding the granting of the stopover privilege and predicts that a very large number of the delegates will take advantage of it. The president will give the matter his immediate attention and endeavor to have the necessary arrangements made in order that the program suggested may be carried out.

TO ENTERTAIN THE COLORADOANS.

Major Clarkson Names a Committee on Reception.

Colorado will visit the exposition tomorrow in force, a delegation of about thirty representatives of the Chamber of Commerce, Mining Exchange, Real Estate exchange and other commercial bodies of Denver, as well as prominent and influential residents of other portions of the state, being due to arrive in the city on the Union Pacific train which reaches Omaha at 7:30 a. m. This party will be led by Lieutenant Governor Jed Bush and Mayor T. S. McMurray of Denver. About one-half of the party will return to Denver on the Burlington train tomorrow evening and the others will remain until the following day, returning on the Rock Island.

Preparations for the entertainment of these visitors are in the hands of Major T. S. Clarkson, chief of the Entertainment bureau of the exposition, who has appointed the following committee to assist in looking after the visitors and escorting them about the city: Governor S. A. Holcomb, Mayor F. E. Moores, Dudley Smith, W. S. Poppleton, E. P. Peck, F. H. Davis, G. M. Hitchcock, J. H. Hussie, A. C. Smith, H. A. Thompson, H. S. Weller, J. C. Wharton, H. J. Penfold, Judge W. D. McHugh, Luther Drake and M. T. Barlow.

The visitors will be met at the train and escorted to the Millard hotel, where the entire committee will meet them at 10 o'clock and escort them to the exposition grounds in special street cars. After returning from the grounds the party will be entertained at luncheon and a business session will follow.

Cosmopolitan Concession.

The Department of Concession has just concluded the execution of a contract with Gaston Akoun for a concession which is designated at Cosmopolis, but it is thought this name will be changed. This concession will occupy a space of 100 feet in width on the Midway and 400 feet in depth. In the cen- will be a reproduction of the Parthenon, in front of which will be given celebrations of Olympian sports and games and from this will radiate streets representing sections of various prominent cities of the old world, including a street in Paris, a street in Seville and a section from the Island of Malta. These streets will be constructed to represent in a graphic manner the original streets in the cities named and the inhabitants will depict the daily life, manners and customs of the people. Each street will be supplied with shops and stores, in which the wares peculiar to the countries represented will be manufactured and sold and there will be a typical French restaurant, photograph gallery, where tintypes of visitors will be made, fortune telling booths, barber shop and many other places. A vaudeville show where all the nationalities will perform their specialities will form one of the attractions and a carnival of Grecian games will form a drawing card.

Enlarging Manufactures Building.

Superintendent Hardt of the Exhibits department says it will be necessary to extend the annex of the Manufactures building to the full limit allowable in the space chosen for the location of this building. The annex will be built as a wing to the Manufactures building, extending north from the west end of the building, and space is available for a building nearly 700 feet in length. Mr. Hardt says the rate at which applications are coming in for space for foreign exhibits, together with the number now on hand, make it imperative that immediate provision be made for making as much room as possible.

FEATURES OF THE MIDWAY

ONLY THE BEST ATTRACTIONS BOOKED

Propositions Are All Carefully Considered Before the Concessions Are Granted—Some of the Promised Shows.

There is one department of the exposition which has been working to add to the attractiveness of the great fair, but which has made very little noise up to this time, presumably on the theory that when the results of its labors are realized they will constitute the noisiest section of the entire entertainment. The department referred to is that which has to do with concessions, which in these latter century days has come to mean, when applied to an exposition, a part of the "Midway." It may be remarked that the name "Midway" seems to be accepted as the proper designation of that particular section of the exposition which is devoted to amusements which are out of the ordinary. Several attempts have been made by the management of the Transmississippi Exposition to change this name, but no other has been found which seems quite so apt, and it will probably be called by that name to the end.

It is not customary to close contracts with features for the Midway far in advance of the opening of the exposition, as few of them are of such a character that they require a great deal of time for the erection of their building and installation. For that reason it is only recently that the closing of contracts has commenced in earnest, and but a short time will elapse until the entire composition of the Midway will be definitely known. Up to this time the main object of the department has been to secure proposals from desirable parties who desire to install attractions.

As propositions have been received which seemed especially desirable contracts have been entered into with the projectors and in this way a number of concessions have been let which form an index of the probably nature of the attractions which will make the Midway one of the most popular spots on the exposition grounds. It may be stated with authority that the Midway of the Transmississippi Exposition will be one of the most complete and attractive resorts of the kind which has ever formed a part of the [?] be lacking which the pampered taste of connoisseurs decrees is necessary in this modern addition to great national fairs and some of the finest and most artistic effects will be seen that were ever installed at any exposition.

BEST OF ATTRACTIONS.

Owing to the policy heretofore referred to, there are not a great many contracts which have been closed, but the character of these, together with the character of those which are being considered, indicates that the Midway will be occupied by the high class attractions which the experience of other expositions has demonstrated to be the best.

There will be several villages, but only those which have proved to be desirable. Previous Midways have been encumbered with alleged villages which proved unremunerative and a nuisance, but the villages on the Transmississippi Midway will be of a high class. Contracts have been closed for the Moorish village, Streets of Cairo, African village and Chinese village. The architecture of each of these will be of the class peculiar to the nationality depicted and this, of itself, will be a most instructive feature.

The Moorish village will be one of the most extensive concessions on the grounds. It will show a group of Moorish houses with native inhabitants and illustrating the modes of living peculiar to the people of that land. The paraphernalia will be gorgeous and correct, depicting the Oriental richness peculiar to its people. In addition to this feature of the village there will be several adjuncts, including a "mirror maze," a palace of illusions and a wax gallery of wax figures in which will be represented historical and allegorical scenes. Several other features are also under consideration in connection with this concession, which will add to its attractiveness and popularity.

The Streets of Cairo will be another spot on the Midway which will doubtless attract the attention of visitors. This village will be distinctly oriental in its character and will be populated by the people from the sunny clime of Egypt. The daily life of these people will be constantly in evidence and many of their picturesque ceremonies will be reproduced with exactness. A group of dancing girls, executing the Nautch dances and certain others of the strange gyrations of these people, which have been dignified by the name of "dance" will doubtless possess attractions for people of an investigating turn of mind.

The Chinese village will be in evidence and the ear-splitting music and alleged singing of the almond-eyed beauties from the Flowery Kingdom will attract great attention. There will be dwelling houses and bazaars, restaurants and theaters and opportunities for witnessing the sly tricks of the "heathen Chinee" will not be lacking. As in other villages, the national dances will be strongly in evidence.

SOME OTHER FEATURES.

The Afro-American village will possess a certain air of familiarity for those who have lived in the southern part of this country. The life of the negro in the south before the war will be depicted in the most vivid manner and the numerous dances with which the jolly, rollicking "niggers" were wont to pass their hours of leisure will be rendered with every detail. The progress made by these people will also be shown and the village will be decidedly educational in its general nature.

In addition to the villages enumerated, there will be numerous other attractions, contracts having been closed with the following: Shooting the Chutes, a wild animal show similar to Haegenbeck's famous show, a scenic railway, a Wild West show, the Big Rock, Night and Morning, a cyclorama, and a concession known as Rolling the Roll.

Shooting the Chutes, the wild animal show and the Wild West show are too well known to require any description. It is announced by the Concessions department that these attractions will all be conducted on the highest plane.

The Scenic railway will be a small railway with open cars large enough to carry adult passengers and will pass through tunnels, over mountains, across rivers and through canyons, the scenic effects being produced by means of paintings with natural foreground.

The Big Rock will be a representation of a huge rock and upon entering it the visitor will find himself in a large cave opening onto a mountain ravine. While he is gazing about him two girls will appear on the opposite side of the ravine and descend toward the spectator. Reaching a platform in the rocks, they will execute a number of dances and disport themselves for the entertainment of the onlookers. While this is going on a thunder storm will be stimulated by means of electrical effects and vivid flashes of lightning will illuminate the scene. As the girls turn to run up the mountain side the path by which they came will be turned to a rushing torrent of water and his Satanic majesty will step from the earth at their side. At the same time the flowers which cover the ravine will be turned into writhing snakes and the whole scene will be one of horror. Electric effects of startling nature will follow in quick succession and the girls will shriek and pray for mercy. When it seems that the culmination of destructive power has been reached quiet will be restored and the show is over.

LATEST ADDITION.

Night and Morning is one of the latest additions to the Midway, the contract for this attraction having been closed only a few days ago. Henry Roltair is the projector of this amusement and he is reputed to be one of the most expert manipulators of optical illusions and scenic effects in the country. His concession will occupy a pyramid 140x140 feet on the ground and 100 feet in height. Upon entering the pyramid the visitor will reach a labyrinth, which will engage his attention for some time as he seeks an outlet. When it is finally found he will find himself in a realistic reproduction of Dante's inferno. Passing from an inspection of this the visitor will ascend to the next floor, where he will find a large number of pleasing scenic effects arranged with all the skill of a master in the art. From this floor the visitor will ascend to the third floor near the top of the pyramid. Here he will find the "heavenly cafe." Just what this may be passes the comprehension of an ordinary mortal, but Mr. Roltair promises that it shall be a place of great attractiveness, where the waitresses shall appear as angels, with wings, flowing robes and all the other concomitants that are supposed to belong to the inhabitants of the region of bliss.

The concession known as Rolling the Roll is an entire novelty in this country, never having been exhibited on this side of the water. It will be operated by three Frenchmen, A. Baron, O. S. Sarzi and O. B. Obergo, who operated it in Paris. It comprises a huge tub, which stands on edge. Seats are made at either side inside the circle and the passengers are strapped to these. The tub is then sent whirling down a steep incline and hits a "bumper" at the bottom, which sends it down another incline to a point beneath the starting place. The passengers alight and the tub is raised for another trip.

The cyclorama which will be exhibited will contain a representation of the famous encounter between the Merrimac and the Monitor.

SCOPE OF MR. FOSTER'S AUTHORITY.

Board of Directors Settles that Matter Without Question.

Although the newly appointed general superintendent of the exposition, A. C. Foster, has not had time to familiarize himself with the duties of his position, a question has arisen in certain quarters regarding the scope of his authority and the claim is made by certain ones that he is simply the superintendent of the Department of Buildings and Grounds and has no connection with, or authority over, any other department of the exposition. The advocates of this construction are generally believed to be actuated by well understood motives, but the report of the special committee of the Board of Directors, under which this appointment was made, clearly shows the intention of the board at the time the executive committee was given positive instructions and defines the duties of the general superintendent as fully as possible without going into minute detail. The report of the special committee to which reference is made was made November 15, and was adopted by the Board of Directors without a dissenting voice and without discussion. The full report is as follows:

To the Board of Directors of the Transmississippi and International Exposition: Gentlemen—Your special committee, appointed at the meeting of the board held on November 12 to investigate and report upon the question of the appointment of a director general or some other supervising officer, to promote the energetic completion of the arrangements for the exposition, begs to report as follows:

Your committee has held an extended conference with the executive committee and discussed the entire situation as fully as it was possible to do the president of the exposition and all members of the executive committee being present, and is pleased to report that a substantial consensus of opinion was eventually arrived at, that the present situation does not seem to make it necessary that the office of director general be created at this time, but that the work of all the departments might be energetically pushed perhaps more satisfactorily than by any other arrangement by the appointment of a general superintendent, a practical builder, at a maximum salary of $200 per month, whose office and headquarters should be upon the exposition grounds and who should be placed in charge of all work in the line of construction of any or all of the departments, with the express duty of overseeing and pushing all such work to energetic completion. As the greater proportion of the work would be in the Department of Buildings and Grounds it would seem advisable to your committee that the nomination of such an officer should be conceded to the manager of that department, but that such nomination should be approved by the executive committee in the usual manner.

Your committee has had under consideration certain amendments to the by-laws touching the powers and duties of the president, but has not had sufficient time to conclude its deliberations on this subject, and would ask that it have further time to consider and report on the same.

Interest in Idaho.

Special Agent C. E. Llewellyn of the Department of Publicity and Promotion wrote to the department from Boise City, Idaho, that interest in the exposition seems to be active in that state and that the indications for a creditable exhibit are favorable. He says the commission recently appointed by Governor Steunenberg will meet in Boise February 24 to organize for business and men will be put in the field to collect money for a state exhibit. The plan which seems in favor is to issue certificates to subscribers, which the legislature will be asked to take up and return the money.

Success in Switzerland.

James T. DuBois, United State consul general at St. Gaul, Switzerland, has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he is meeting with flattering success in his efforts to interest the people of his district in the exposition and has distributed all the advertising matter sent him; he requests that another large quantity be sent him at once as there is a brisk demand for it.

WATER MAINS ALL READY

NOTHING TO DO BUT TURN ON WATER

As Soon as the Company Provides for the Connections the Big Buildings Will Be Safe.

The turning on of water at the exposition grounds will relieve the exposition management of one of the most embarrassing predicaments which has been encountered in the entire history of the enterprise. The question of water supply has been a most vital issue since the beginning of active work on the grounds. Numerous plans have been suggested for securing water from other sources than the water company, but all of these plans proved futile when fully investigated and it was finally conceded by all who had given the matter any attention that the only practical plan was to have the water supplied by the water company. When this conclusion was reached action was commenced to bring about a favorable arrangement with the water company to supply the necessary water. The events following this decision are too recent to require repetition.

Recognizing the fact that the settlement of this matter would probably consume considerable time, the exposition management went ahead with the work of putting in a complete system of water main, fire hydrants, house connections, etc., and this is now ready for immediate use as soon as connections are made with the mains of the water company Wherever a street was available the water mains were laid in the proper place to be available for use after the exposition shall have passed into history. As the land occupied by the main court and the old fair ground tract has never been platted or laid out with streets and alleys the mains were laid where the streets will pass whenever this property is platted.

The location of the fire hydrants will afford ample fire protection to all parts of the grounds. In the main court hydrants are stationed both in front and behind the main buildings and in the other parts of the grounds they are placed at frequent intervals, so that the danger from fire is reduced to the minimum. The exposition authorities do not intend to rely solely upon the fire protection supplied by the fire hydrants, however, but preparations have already been made for supplying the exposition grounds with all the most improved appliances for fighting fire. Portable fire extinguishers are already distributed in all of the main buildings and one large chemical engine is stationed in the main court and is manned by three members of the Omaha fire department. Arrangements have been made for the purchase of hose wagons, chemical engines and various other apparatus of the latest patten, which will be installed on the grounds at convenient points. The details of these arrangements are largely carried out along lines suggested by Chief Redell of the Omaha fire department and he will have general charge of the fire patrol of the grounds.

MUSIC FOR OMAHA'S BIG SHOW.

One of the Greatest Attractions that Can Be Had.

"Music is one of the great attractions at an exposition," said Louis M. Ballenberg at the Millard last night. Mr. Ballenberg, a resident of Cincinnati, is here representing the interests of the Bellstedt Military band of that city and is himself a musician of considerable renown. "Everybody likes it and therefore should have it," continued he. "Visitors to a great exposition like that which will undoubtedly be held in this city grow tired after a time of nothing but sightseeing and they wish a relaxation. This is furnished by the musical organizations. I dare say that one of the most pleasant memories the average visitor to the World's fair brought away with him was the music. It was free as the air and the programs were rendered by famous organizations. After tramping over the grounds of the White City, the people, I noticed, would seek a shady spot and there listen for hours to the melody of Sousa, Siedl or some other bandmaster's efforts. Omaha should not forget this feature. I understand that nearly all the best bands in the country have made offers to the exposition managers, but as yet nothing has been done in this regard. It will not do to defer action on this subject too long, for it must be understood that the maintenance of one of these bands is most expensive. Our organization alone numbers sixty performers, among which we have ten high priced specialists. A manager of such an organization as this is very anxious to make his entire bookings for a season before he starts his men out on the road. All the large bands, of which there are really only four in the United States, will soon have their routes scheduled and it behooves the exposition managers to move in the matter if they care for the services of any of them."

Georgia Commission at Work.

The Georgia exposition commission is traveling about all over the state, holding public meetings in all of the larger towns and arousing the people to the importance of having the state well represented at exposition. This course is having the desired effect and subscriptions are coming in from all quarters. The state exhibit, which is said to be the finest of its kind in the country, is being overhauled and put in good order and preparations are being made to commence work on the Georgia Pine Palace, the money for this purpose being nearly all in hand. This Pine Palace will be one of the marvels of the exposition grounds. It will be constructed entirely of Georgia pines, with "hard oil" finish inside and outside and will have the finest specimens of the beautiful "curly pine" placed at prominent points to add to the beauty.

Oregon May Yet Come.

Oregon seems to be in a fair way to attend the exposition in force and with an exhibit. The latest news from that state is to the effect that the governor is now considering the appointment of an exposition commission and will make his announcement within a few days. Special Agent C. E. Llewellyn of the Department of Publicity and Promotion is in that state and is arousing the people to the importance of getting in line. He has notified the department that the situation has improved very materially and that the prospect for prompt and energetic action is assured.

Nodaway County Will Exhibit.

MARYVILLE, Mo., Feb. 20.—(Special.)—At a mass meeting of the citizens of Nodaway county held at the court house in Maryville yesterday afternoon it was decided to raise at least $2,500 for a Nodaway county exhibit at the Omaha Exposition. Of this amount $500 is to be raised by the Maryville Commercial club, $500 to be appropriated by the county court and the rest raised by subscription in the outlying townships.

Will Erect a Building.

The Liggett & Meyers Tobacco company of St. Louis has decided to erect a building on the exposition grounds. The decision was telegraphed to the Department of Exhibits Saturday and with it came instructions to Leo Bonet to commence work at once upon the plans for the building, which will be 100x50 feet in size and of handsome design.

Favorable to Indian Congress.

The Department of Publicity and Promotion is in receipt of information to the effect that there has been a great change in sentiment in the committee of congress having in charge the Indian bill which carries the appropriation for the Indian congress. The members of the committee who have been opposing the appropriation for the congress have been receiving telegrams and letters in large numbers from their constituents, urging them to support the measure, and these are having considerable weight with the committee.

INDIAN CONGRESS IS A GO

AMENDMENT IS VERY LIKELY TO PASS

If the Good Management Thus Far Shown is Continued the Redskins Will Certainly Assemble at Omaha.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 21.—(Special Telegram.)—There is a growing belief that Omaha will get $45,000 for the Indian congress if the present diplomatic conduct of legislation looking to its adoption by the committee of conference on the Indian appropriation bill is maintained. The whole management in the campaign thus far has been without a mistake and if anything like the present finesse is shown there will be no difficulty in keeping the amount of $45,000 on the appropriation bill as it came from the senate.

COLORADO IS CONVINCED

TRIP TO EXPOSITION GROUNDS SATISFIED

Thirty-Seven Enthusiasts from Denver See All They Looked For and a Great Deal More at Kountze Park.

The first installment of Colorado people who are coming to inspect the exposition and imbibe some of the exposition enthusiasm which permeates the air, have arrived in the city and are being entertained by the exposition management while information is being administered in large quantities. The party was ciceroned by Commissioners W. S. Ward and A. T. Macdonald, members of the Colorado commission and of the Denver commission, who visited Omaha several weeks ago and were greatly inspired by what they saw. They decided after returning home that the only way their fellow citizens could be aroused to the proper pitch of enthusiasm would be to bring them to Omaha to see for themselves that the exposition is to be the greatest American exposition ever held on this continent.

There are thirty-seven men in the party, all but two being from Denver. Business men from other portions of the state fully intended to accompany the party but failed to make the necessary connections. The visitors are a bustling, business-like body of men, and they seem to exude energy at every pore. They say they are here for business and promise that Colorado and Denver will not be missing when the roll is called for the opening day of the exposition.

The full list of the delegation is as follows: Lieutenant Governor Jud Brush, Mayor W. S. McMurray, Vice President Edward F. Bishop, capitalist; W. N. Beyers, retired capitalist; F. A. Keener, vice president Denver Consolidated Tramway company; William Church, capitalist; S. M. Allen, manger Bradstreets; Max Kuner, president Kuner Pickle company; W. A. Hoover, wholesale druggist; S. E. Roberts, transfer business; W. S. Ward, mining expert; George Ady, general agent Union Pacific; Joseph Milner, city passenger agent Burlington; W. A. Firth, general agent Rock Island at Denver; W. F. Bailey, general passenger agent Colorado Midland; J. E. Preston, general agent Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railway; Fitz Mac, journalist; J. M. Ward, city editor Post; Willis Thompson, city editor Republican; A. T. Macdonald, deputy city auditor; S. N. Hastings, real estate; H. H. Roth, insurance; M. Morris, national secretary Retail Clerks association; Colonel J. D. Fanning, proprietor Albany hotel; T. A. Triplett, mine owner, Central City; J. H. Adams, capitalist; Colonel Goodell, capitalist; Warren Gilbert, sketch artist for Denver Post; Ardice Davis, plumber; John D. Bradley, real estate; C. W. Bishop, clerk circuit court; Donald W. Campbell, engineer Board of Public Works; J. J. Humphrey, architect Manufactures building on exposition grounds; T. D. Boal, architect of Denver city building; J. J. Jo[?]lin, dry goods; O. A. Reinhardt, capitalist; Henry J. Mayham, president Mayham Investment company.

FROM HOTEL TO GROUNDS.

The local committee which assembled at the hotel to accompany the visitors to the exposition grounds included these Omaha men: President Wattles, Mayor F. E. Moores, Major T. S. Clarkson, chief of the Entertainment bureau; Chairman William Neville of the Nebraska Exposition commission; Dr. S. K. Spalding, W. H. Roberson, Dudley Smith, W. S. Poppleton, H. E. Palmer, Rev. T. J. Mackay, Colonel J. J. Dickey, H. J. Penfold, H. S. Weller, Judge W. D. McHugh and W. F. Allen. After a short time spent in getting acquainted a special train of trolley cars was brought to the hotel and in this the entire party made a quick trip to the grounds.

The main court was first entered, the party going into the Auditorium, the size, purpose and cost of which was explained by President Wattles, after which the entire party assembled on the bank of the lagood​ in front of the Mines building, where President Wattles explained the names of the main buildings and the general scheme of the grounds. From here a circuit of the main court was made, each building being entered and the progress of construction noted.

The visitors were loud in their praise of the evident magnitude of the operations and the magnificent plan which dominated the whole. They commented very freely on the grand scale on which preparations are being made and confessed that what they saw greatly surpassed their expectations. The general trend of the expressions heard was to the effect that Denver must have a building on the grounds and that Colorado must be represented in a creditable manner.

As each of the buildings was visited the astonishment of the visitors increased and the time consumed in passing through the immense structures seemed to impress them with the huge proportions of the whole affair. The staff shop in the Manufactures building was a point of great interest, and many of the visitors watched the operation of making staff with great interest.

From the main court the party passed to the bluff tract and examined the buildings there under construction. The location selected for the Denver building was examined and commented on, the opinion being general that Commissioners Ward and Macdonald had made an excellent selection.

After the grounds had been fully inspected the party returned to the city and were entertained at luncheon at the Millard. This was followed by an interchange of courtesies and short talks by the visitors and members of the local committee.

Some of the party will return home this evening on the Burlington and the others will remain in the city until tomorrow and will return via the Rock Island.

BOOMERS MEET GREAT SUCCESS.

George Clayton Tells of the Trip as Far as Columbus, O.

George Clayton, northwestern passenger agent of the Wabash railroad, has just returned from Columbus, O., where he left the party of Nebraskans now touring through the central and southern portions of the country advertising the Transmississippi Exposition. Mr. Clayton accompanied the party from here to Columbus, personally attending to the matter of railroad connections and assisting in other details of the trip. He was obliged to leave the party on Thursday last because of the demands of business here.

To a Bee reporter yesterday he said: "This trip, in my opinion, will prove to be the most successful of any time that have been undertaken to spread the fame of the exposition. The party is a large one and a representative one, and contains a number of good speakers. Everywhere it is being received royally, and in every city and town visited the people are convinced of the real importance of the exposition and its broad scope. At every place the party visited the leading business and professional men of the city. The papers in all the cities were exceedingly kind, and invariably gave us from a column to a column and a half notice, besides locals for several days in advance of our arrival.

"We started in at St. Louis, and after the close of the Stock exchange there one of the party told the brokers all about the exposition. Then we were entertained at the Manufacturers' club. The next day we covered Vincennes, Ind., meeting the mayor and all the prominent citizens. The southern part of Illinois and Indiana were crossed by daylight, and that evening we pulled in at Louisville, Ky., at 6 o'clock. After a fine supper we had a big meeting and the interests of the exposition gained many real friends. It was the same thing over again at Cincinnati, at Dayton, O., at Springfield, O., and at Columbus, O. At the latter place the governor and the legislature were unusually cordial and promised the support of the state. All in all, the trip will undoubtedly do more real good for the exposition than any trip that has yet been undertaken, and will certainly make the exposition literature that shall now be sent into that country read with much greater interest."

PARIS EXHIBIT ASKS FOR SPACE.

French Dealers Apply for a Chance to Show Their Wares.

The first installment of applications from the large number of French exhibitors secured by Frederick Mayer, the French commissioner of the exposition, have been received. There are nineteen in this collection, eleven of whom exhibited at the World's fair. The names and characters of exhibits are these: Emile Pinedo, bronzes, statuary, etc.; Fernand Martin, mechanical toys; J. B. Martin, musical instruments; M. Shorestene, hat makers' supplies; M. Besegher, varnishes; M. Carue, gymnastic apparatus; Ernest Carriere, mirrors and glass; M. Hubert, artistic toys, etc.; M. Renou, jewelry, precious stones; G. Vichy, artistic toys, etc.; M. Delaunay, artistic furniture; H. Morin, perfumery; M. Marmorat, jewelry, precious stones, etc.; M. Charpentier, furniture and bronzes; M. Hartman, the same; M. Levy, dresses and women's apparel; M. Vuitton, trunks, valises, etc.; M. Colmont, optical instruments; F. Mayer, collection of illustrated views of the Paris exposition.

All of these exhibitors are from Paris, and Commissioner Mayer says the exhibits made by them will be of the very highest class. Superintendent Hardt of the Exhibits department, says he is personally acquainted with many of these exhibitors and knows that their exhibits will be of the highest grade of excellence. Commissioner Mayer says he will forward another lot of application in a few days, and will have a fine collection of exhibitors in the French section. He says the American Chamber of Commerce in Paris is giving him great assistance in securing exhibitors and in arousing interest among the people concerning the exposition. He issues from his office special exposition pamphlets at short intervals and says the demand for them is constantly growing.

DELAY SETTLING WATER MATTER.

Stipulation for Dismissal of Baum Injunction Not Yet on File.

The injunction proceedings which have prevented the city council from paying the back bills of the water company are still pending, but it is expected that the necessary stipulation for dismissal will be filed within a day or two and then there is no apparent reason why the water cannot be turned on at the exposition grounds at once. The stipulation has been signed by the attorney for Mr. Baum and is now in the hands of the attorneys for the water company and the signatures of its officials will complete the document.

It is not expected that there will be any hitch in the payment of the water bills by the city after the injunction proceedings are once out of the way. There is no dispute in regard to the bills, and in fact $43,000 of the amount due has already been allowed. No action has been taken on the 1897 bills amounting to $87,040 on account of the injunction, but the council is understood to be ready to approve them as soon as the legal barrier is removed. The smaller amount can be paid at once, as the warrants are drawn and in the hands of the comptroller, but as the 1897 bills are provided for in the pending issue of refunding bonds there would be a short delay while the bonds were being disposed of.

Ogden Editor Interested.

William Glasmann, editor and proprietor of the Ogden Standard, is in the city and accompanied the Colorado party to the exposition grounds. Mr. Glasmann was most favorably impressed with the progress which has been made on the exposition grounds and buildings and said he intended taking up the matter in his paper and urging the people of Utah to take a more active interest in the matter of being represented. "Our state has a commission which has been doing very active work," said Mr. Glasmann, "but I am satisfied that the people generally do not fully realize the magnitude of the enterprise you people are preparing for. I am astounded at the magnificent scale on which preparations are being made and I shall make it a point to urge our people to make all possible use of the opportunity which will be afforded them to make a fine showing."

Mr. Glasmann made copious notes on the grounds on which he will base a series of energetic letters to his paper and he says he will follow these with editorials, urging the people to give the state commission all possible support.

Endeavorers and Sunday Opening.

Treasurer Jones and A. L. Emmons, chairman of the press committee of the Omaha union of the Christian Endeavorers, authorize a denial of any intention on the part of the local members of that organization to have a rally of delegates, en route to the national convention, on the exposition grounds on Sunday, July 3, as stated in the letter of Chairman Brainard of the transportation committee in a letter to President Wattles. These representatives of the local union say that preparations have been making for a rally in Omaha on July 3, but the promoters have not intended that it shall be held on the exposition grounds, as they are opposed to having the gates opened on Sunday, but they have intended to have the meeting held down town and have the delegates remain in the city all day Monday in order that they may visit the exposition on that day.

Georgia Has a Nice Fund.

B. M. Fowler, the Georgia agent of the exposition, writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that the Georgia Exposition commission has already raised $3,600 for the expenses of installing the magnificent state exhibit now at the state capitol, and expects to increase this amount to $5,000 or $6,000 very soon. He says the commission is canvassing the entire state and is meeting with great success in raising funds in this manner. The commission travels about in a body, holding public meetings in the principal towns and bringing the exposition logic directly home to the people.

Part of the Navy Exhibit.

Lieutenant Commander Fatch, the representative of the Navy department on the board of control of the government exhibit, writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that among the articles to be exhibited by the Navy department will be a model of the dry dock at Puget Sound, twenty-six feet in length, with a model of a battleship lying in the dock. There will also be a full size model of a ship's stateroom.

Fills Vacancy on Supreme Bench.

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 22.—A special to the Post-Dispatch from Jefferson City, Mo., says that Governor Stephens William C. Marshall, city counsellor of St. Louis, to the supreme bench to succeed Justice McFarland, who died recently.

CHORUS GETS UNDER WAY

PRELIMINARY MEETING A SUCCESS

More Than a Hundred Express Their Intention of Joining After Hearing the Plan Explained and Having a Drill.

The meeting last night to organize the exposition chorus was a complete success, both in point of the number of singers in attendance and in the enthusiasm with which they entered into the spirit of the undertaking. The meeting was held in Hayden's music hall and there were just 107 people, by actual count, in the chairs reserved for the singers when Choral Conductor Kelly swung his baton for the first chorus. In addition to these there were a number of spectators, some of them having come as escorts for prospective members of the chorus, and others being people interested in musical matters, but who do not sing.

The singers were prompt in assembling and it was but a few minutes after 8 o'clock when Mr. T. J. Kelly, the choral director of the exposition, called the meeting to order and stated very briefly the object for which the meeting was held. He then asked Manager Lindsey of the Ways and Means department of the exposition, called the meeting to order and stated very briefly the object for which the meeting was held. He then asked Manager Lindsey of the Ways and Means department of the exposition, the department having direct control of the music of the exposition, to say a few words.

Mr. Lindsey said he would not make a speech, but would merely say that it will be the policy of the exposition management to give the music of the exposition all the money that can be spared for that purpose. He promised that his feature of the great enterprise would not be allowed to suffer, but will be supported in a substantial manner, and he asked the singers of this vicinity to lend the movement all the assistance in their power.

DIRECTOR KIMBALL'S EXPLANATION.

Prof. Willard Kimball, musical director of the exposition, was introduced to the assembly by Director Kelly. He stated that this meeting was of greater import to the development of musical culture in the west than any meeting ever before held in Omaha or any other western city. He laid especial stress upon the statement that the chorus now in process of organization would be generally regarded as the criterion by which people from other sections of the country will judge the musical culture of this section and appealed to those present and to musicians generally, as well as those interested in the upbuilding of the cause in the west, to lend their hearty support to aiding in the establishment of a chorus which shall be a credit to Omaha and the entire west.

Prof. Kimball then referred briefly to the advantages which membership in the chorus will confer upon those who identify themselves with it. He spoke of the opportunities which will be presented for hearing many concerts by the most noted performers, including the most celebrated singers in the world, as well as concerts by an orchestra of the highest standing. In this connection he said negotiations are now being conducted with several of the leading orchestras of this country and it will soon be known which organizations will be engaged. Returning again to the benefits to be derived by members of the chorus, Mr. Kimball said the chorus will not be asked to sing more than once or twice in any week, but members will be admitted to the Auditorium on any day when concerts are to be given, and this privilege alone, he said, represented at least $25. The practice which will be acquired by rehearsing before and during the exposition will be valuable to all singers, and all that each member of the chorus is asked to pay is $5 to assist in defraying some of the minor expenses.

In closing, Prof. Kimball called attention to the fact that the stage of the Auditorium is limited in size and will not seat more than about 225 singers, so that it will be necessary to limit the number of members to about that number.

CHORUS STARTS WELL.

This concluded the preliminary work of the meeting and Choral Director Kelly took charge of the proceedings. Copies of the "Daughter of Jairus" were distributed and rehearsal was at once taken up with this work. Mr. Martin Cahn, the well known pianist, was present and was invited to play the accompaniment. The first chorus was taken up and no delay ensued in getting under full headway. The singers entered at once into the spirit of the music and the number moved with a precision and accuracy of attack that was a source of great pleasure to Director Kimball, who was an interested observer. The several parts were fairly well balanced, although there was a noticeable deficiency in numbers in the ranks of the tenors, but those in that row labored energetically and the volume of sound from that quarter was strongly in evidence. One chorus followed another in rapid succession, interruptions and repetitions being frequent as little details were brought out, and the best of humor prevailed throughout the drill.

After an hour spent in this way Mr. Kelly announced that he would be ready Saturday of this week to try the voices of all applicants for membership, and asked all who desired to become members to come to his   studio on that day between the hours of 2 and 5 p. m. He then asked all who intended to join the chorus to give evidence of that fact by rising and every chair was vacant in an instant. He proceeded to take the names of those wishing to become members and the name of nearly every person present was entered on the list.

While this was being done Prof. Kimball related briefly the various choral societies which have expressed a desire to come to Omaha during the exposition and give concerts, to all of which members of the Exposition chorus will be admitted without charge. He said the exposition management will expend about $50,000 to make the music of the exposition a prominent feature and he dwelt upon the importance of such an expenditure in building up the musical standing of Omaha. He predicted that it would result in the organization of a permanent choral society of large size and a high grade of excellence and the establishment here of an orchestra of the highest proficiency.

This concluded the business of the meeting and it was announced that the second meeting will be held in the same hall next Monday evening at 8 o'clock and all who desire to become members of the chorus were invited to be present at that time and place.

EXHIBIT OF BABY INCUBATORS.

London Firm Secures a Concession for a Novel Scientific Show.

The executive committee yesterday authorized Manager Reed of the Department of Concessions to enter into a contract for a concession for an exhibit of infant incubators. The promoters propose to erect a building in which they will install eight of these machines, each with a living occupant, and the tiny bit of humanity inhabiting each of these compartments will be in plain view of the spectators. The concessionaires are Duncan Shepperd and Louis Luby, both of London, England. They made similar exhibits at the Brussels exposition last year and at the Queen's Era exposition in London. Commissioner Dudley Smith saw both exhibits when in Europe as the representative of the exposition, and pronounces them strong attractions.

Manager Reed was also authorized to make a contract with Messrs. Obergo and Baroni to conduct an employes' and exhibitors' restaurant on the exposition grounds, where meals will be furnished those desiring them and thus obviate leaving the grounds.

The proposition of Sculptor Franz Engelsmann to make the sculpture for the Agriculture building for $4,680 was accepted.

Mesa County's Part.

The fruit growers of Grand Junction, Colo., held a meeting in that city Saturday and appointed a committee to take full charge of the exhibit to be made by Mesa county at the exposition and see that the extensive fruit interests of that section are properly presented. This committee is as follows: P. A. Rice, C. W. Steele, Dr. F. R. Smith, J. W. Constan and J. S. Charlton. The committee will at once take up the work for which it was created and the fruit growers of that section have promised their hearty co-operation.

Montana's Advisory Board.

Vice President W. H. Sutherlin of Montana has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he has appointed an advisory board to assist him in preparing Montana's exhibit, consisting of the following persons: Marcus Daly of Anaconda, A. L. Babcock of Billings, W. G. Conrad of Great Falls, W. A. Clark of Butte and W. W. Morris of Pony.

CAPTURES CENTENNIAL STATE

DENVER'S DELEGATES ARE DELIGHTED

Trip to Kountze Park Followed by Luncheon, at Which Many Kind and Encouraging Words Are Spoken.

The Transmississippi and International Exposition has no warmer supporters than the thirty-seven Coloradoans who arrived in the city yesterday morning to inspect the exposition grounds and learn for themselves just what is being done to prepare for the great show they have heard so much about. The citizen of Colorado is a boomer by instinct, and those who were in the party in question admitted that they had formed a dim idea that perhaps the people of Omaha were subject to the same complaint, but they freely admitted, after they had visited the grounds, that "the half had not been told," and they were loud in their praises of the magnificence of the preparations and the remarkable progress which has been made in getting ready for an exposition which they declared will be second only to the great World's Fair. They promise that the Centennial state will not be missing when the roll is called on the opening day of the exposition, but will be here with an exhibit and the people will attend the show in great numbers.

LUNCH AT THE MILLARD.

After the inspection of the grounds had been completed the party returned to the city and were entertained at luncheon at the Millard.

The west end of the main dining room was set apart for the party and tables were arranged to form three sides of a hollow square. The seats of honor were occupied by Governor Holcomb of Nebraska, Lieutenant Governor Brush of Colorado, Mayor McMurray of Denver and Mayor Moores of Omaha, Vice President Bishop of the Colorado commission and Colonel W. N. Byers of Denver. President Wattles occupied the center of the table, with Master of Ceremonies Clarkson at his side, and the executive committee was represented by Manager Rosewater of the Department of Publicity and Promotion.

After the cigars had been lighted Major Clarkson assumed charge, an ideal toastmaster, and his happy references to the several speakers kept the assembly in good humor and added greatly to the enjoyment of the occasion.

President Wattles extended a welcome to the visitors on behalf of the exposition. His remarks were brief, but he said he wished to emphasize the point that the coming exposition is not an Omaha fair, but an exposition of the whole western country and that Omaha has simply been acting as the agent of Colorado and the other western states in making ready for the great event. He said he took pleasure in welcoming a delegation which had come to see how its agent had been conducting the business in which they were all interested and he expressed the hope that the result of the investigation would be that Colorado will be present at the exposition with an exhibit and with her people.

GOVERNOR HOLCOMB'S WELCOME.

Governor Holcomb was called on and responded with an eloquent speech which aroused the visitors to a high pitch of enthusiasm. He commenced by expressing his pleasure at being able to join with his fellow citizens of Omaha in welcoming the visitors to the state and city and expressed the hope that they would return to their homes and give their neighbors a true account of what has been done in the way of preparation. He hoped the visitors would feel that the enterprise now in prospect will redound to the credit of the entire west. He declared that it is extending every day and already reaches from Atlantic to Pacific; the states both in the east and in the west are taking an active interest and will be here with their exhibits. There will be no spirit of unfriendly rivalry between the states, but all will join in showing to the world the progress which has been made by the great west since the subjugation of what was once regarded as a barren region. He invited Colorado to join in this great exposition and assist in showing to the world the magnificent resources of this great exposition and assist in showing to the world the magnificent resources of this great section, in order that those desiring to improve their condition may be able to take their choice from seeing what each locality has to offer. The people of Omaha and Nebraska have done all in their power to prepare for the event and now ask the other states to come in and help in making the exposition a great success.

FROM COLORADO'S EXECUTIVE.

Lieutenant Governor Brush conveyed the regrets of Governor Adams at being unable to be present. The governor had told him to say that he is in full sympathy with the exposition movement and will do all in his power to assist in making it a success.

Speaking for himself, Governor Brush said he had heard wonderful accounts of what was being done before he reached Omaha and had been somewhat skeptical about believing all he heard, but after visiting the grounds all he could say was, in the language of scripture, "the half has not been told." Colorada has been a little lukewarm toward the exposition, but he predicted that when the delegation of which he is a member returned home great interest will be aroused to the importance of being well represented, he had no doubt a way will be found to bring about that result. He declared his conviction that the exposition will be a great success and worthy of participation by every state in the union and he predicted that Colorado will not be missing when the gates are opened.

Mayor Moores added to the welcome of the visitors, assuring them that the town was theirs. His remarks were well timed and witty and kept the assembly in an excellent humor.

SPEAKS FOR DENVER.

Mayor McMurray of Denver expressed the thanks of the visitors for the hearty entertainment of which they had been the recipients. When he visited the grounds he had been greatly surprised at the magnitude of the plans and the advancement that had been made and felt as much interested in the progress and success of the exposition as a Nebraskan could possibly feel. It is a matter of great regret with all the Coloradoans that their legislature had made no appropriation for participation in the exposition, but they hope to make up for the deficiency by arousing the people when they return home. Colorado might not be able to put up a building, but the people will be here and they will come with exhibit that will not be made ashamed by the showing made by any other state. He asked that space be reserved in the main building for Colorado and for Denver, and also put in an application for a special day, to be called "Colorado day," when the people of Colorado and Denver may come and visit the exposition and feel that they have a proprietary interest in it.

Mayor McMurray also served notice that Colorado will have a great exposition in 1903, to celebrate the "Louisiana purchase" and he invited all the people to come to Colorado at that time to help celebrate.

Toastmaster Clarkson declared that a day would be too short in which to take care of all the visitors who will come from Colorado and he announced that a full week will be set aside for that especial purpose. He also served notice that Omaha and Nebraska will be on hand when Colorado holds it great celebration of the Louisiana purchase and will do all in their power to make that occasion a great success.

BELONGS TO THE WEST.

Manager Rosewater was called for and responded by saying that the strongest feature of the Transmississippi and International Exposition will be the exhibits of the states in the transmississippi region. This will be the first exposition at which the greatest attention will be paid to the states of the union. Washington and Oregon are the only states west of the Mississippi which have not taken active steps to be represented and the latest advices are to the effect that the governor of Oregon will appoint a commission within a few days, leaving Washington as the only state without representation. Mr. Rosewater said he realized that it is difficult to make an exhibit without a state appropriation, but he referred to Missouri as a shining example of what can be accomplished by persistent effort and enterprise. Denver, "the Paris of the West," should take hold of the matter and see that the state is represented. He referred to the Mountain City as a thriving wide awake, enterprising commonwealth that has outstripped Omaha in many respects by sheer force of the energy of her people, and said the people of Colorado are equally enterprising, and will undoubtedly be represented at the exposition in a fitting manner. Referring to other states which have been working without a state appropriation to ensure suitable representation, Mr. Rosewater named Wisconsin, which has collected nearly $15,000 and will erect a building; Georgia, which has collected several thousand dollars and will have a magnificent exhibit; Alabama, Tennessee, New Jersey, which is asking for an appropriation, but will have a large exhibit whether one is secured or not; Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York and Pennsylvania, all of which are going ahead without appropriations and are bound to be on hand with creditable exhibits. More states will be represented than were at the Philadelphia Centennial. The people of the east are talking about the exposition and it is assured that at least 3,000,000 will attend the exposition. Colorado must certainly take advantage of this most excellent opportunity to advertise her resources to the people of the world. Whatever helps Colorado or the west will help Omaha, and vice versa.

COLORADO'S EFFORTS.

Colonel Edward F. Bishop, vice president of the Colorado commission, a former schoolmate of Major Clarkson and a comrade-in-arms, was the next speaker. He said he had expected great things of the exposition, but he had been more than surprised at what he had seen on the grounds. He ventured the statement that if George Washington should look down on the earth on this, his natal day, his eyes would rest with approval on the fertile state of Nebraska and the great city of Omaha. He declared that the men composing the Colorado delegation represented the best business interests of Denver, who had been brought to Omaha to see what had been shown them. There had been no indisposition to make an exhibit, but efforts in that direction had been hindered by lack of a state appropriation. A commission had been appointed and efforts made to provide for an exhibit. A fine exhibit is assured, he said, regardless of what may result from future efforts, and the resources of the state in minerals, agriculture, horticulture and fine arts will be well represented.

W. S. Appleton told about the visit of the Omaha exposition to the Centennial state just a year ago, when the exposition was yet in its infancy, and the hearty reception that had been given the party by the people of Denver. He spoke of the rough places the exposition had passed since that time and expressed the hope that Colorado will be at the exposition, assuring the visitors of the co-operation of Omaha in their contemplated celebration in 1903.

EARLY EXPOSITION HISTORY.

Colonel W. N Byers expressed his surprise at what he had seen on the exposition grounds, saying it was far beyond his anticipations. He said he had no doubt the people of Omaha were surprised at the tardiness of Colorado in getting into line, but he was assured that energetic action will be taken at once and suitable provision made for participation. The veteran surveyor then reviewed some of his early experiences when he first came to the west. He said the ground where the exposition is now being prepared was then a cornfield planted by the Mormons. At that time this section of country west of it was considered a barren waste. He indulged in several interesting reminiscences of those early days when the Mormons were located at Kanesville, above what is now Council Bluffs. When the Mormons started for the west the speaker went with them, returning to Omaha when there was but a single cabin on what is now the city.

G. M. Hitchcock told of the difficulties of the party that visited Colorado on exposition business one year ago. What was then   imaginary, he said, has since been fully realized, and the work that has been done in preparing for the exposition, he declared, will be a great revelation to those who have not seen it in course of preparation. It had been said then that this exposition would be a great X-ray which would show to the people the vast resources of the great west, and he expressed the belief that this prophecy will be fully realized. Colorado has been slow, but he believed what had been lost in time will be made up in energy and that what will be of benefit to Colorado will benefit also Nebraska and all the other states.

This concluded the post prandial exercises and the party dissolved. Twenty-four of the visiting delegation returned home on the Burlington train at 4:30 yesterday afternoon and the other thirteen remained in the city. They will leave on the Rock Island train this afternoon.

State Horticultural Society.

Yesterday afternoon the State Horticultural society met at the Barker hotel and took steps toward revising the premium list and preparing for the exposition. A committee, consisting of three florists and three horticulturists, was appointed to prepare the list for the exposition premiums. This committee consists of C. H. Barnett of Table Rock, G. A. Marshall of Arlington, Peter Youngers of Geneva, C. H. Chapin of Lincoln, Louis Henderson and J. H. Hadkinson of Omaha. The premium list will include offers amounting to $1,000.

GENERATES SOME WARMTH

SECRETARY CASPER DESCANTS ON EXPERTS

Employment of Numerous Assistants Arouses Him to an Indignant Protest, but He is Outvoted Just the Same.

The Nebraska Exposition commission held a meeting last night for the first time this month. There was very little business transacted, principally because a good part of the session was occupied by a very animated and heated discussion. Some of the members claimed the others were getting more than their share of the soft jobs for their friends and there were some very severe criticisms of the policy of employing alleged experts for the work to be done. The warmth which pervaded the meeting extended to the lobby and a heated argument terminated in a fist fight between two employes of the board.

The trouble started over a very innocent appearing motion made by Commissioner Whitford. Mr. Whitford is a horticulturist by choice and the affairs of the horticulture department have been regulated largely according to his suggestions, but when he moved that the board proceed to select an assistant superintendent of horticulture Secretary Casper's hair stood on end. The secretary entered a most vigorous and emphatic protest against the appointment of any more employes until some kind of an agreement was reached by which some of the districts which have no representation on the pay roll should have a chance. As the usually placid and mild-mannered secretary proceeded his ire increased and he demanded to know of the chairman if it was not a fact that the board had already appointed a superintendent of horticulture and an assistant.

Chairman Neville declined to be drawn into what he saw was likely to be an unpleasant discussion and he maintained a dignified silence.

Mr. Whitford's manner was gentle as a summer's breeze as he informed Mr. Casper in a tone of gentle reproach that it was true that the board had already employed the persons he had named, but he reminded the secretary, still in the same gentle tone, that the care of the horticultural exhibit would require the greatest attention and it was necessary to employ experts to do the work properly.

CASPER ON EXPERTS.

The reference to "experts" was like flaunting a carmine undergarment in the eyes of an excited gentleman cow and furnished a text for a dissertation by the secretary that was a gem. He declared that he was tired of hearing about "experts." "We are told at every meeting," said he, "that we must have an expert for this and an expert for that and it always happens that the man who talks the most about experts has some friend who is just the right kind of an expert to fill the bill. The result is that we have got a lot of experts on our pay roll calling up the money and what do they amount to? We have got two or three experts putting up our state building and one goes out there and orders a thing done this way and right after him comes another expert and orders the work torn down and done his way. I understand that the cornice on our building has been torn off three times to please some of our alleged experts and the good Lord only knows whether some of our other experts won't come along tomorrow and say it is all wrong and must be done another way. Now we are told we must have an expert to wipe off apples and put them on a plate. I believe I could learn how to take an apple off a plate and wipe the dust off of it and then put it back again after I had been instructed eight or ten times by the superintendent and I believe any other hayseed could learn to do it in time. I would like to know when we are going to agree on the number of employes we are going to put on the pay roll and have some understanding how the different districts are going to be represented. I have not nominated a single man for a position under this board, and yet I believe I have as many applicants for jobs as any of the rest of you. I believe all the democrats in the state think they must come either to Mr. Boydston or myself when they want a job under this board, and there are plenty of pops and one or two republicans who have made application to me. I always tell them that we are not ready to hire any men and have no determined just what we will do, but it makes me tired to come here one meeting after another and see other members slipping their friends into nice soft jobs when I have to go home and be cussed by my friends for not having sense enough to get anything for my district."

EXPERTS IN A ROW.

The remarks of Mr. Casper about the alterations in the cornice of the Nebraska building caused a discussion between Assistant Foreman Watson, one of the numerous "experts" who has been in charge of the construction of the Nebraska building, and Timekeeper E. W. Crane, an "expert" engaged to keep account of the number of hours put in by the expert carpenters, expert laborers and the numerous other expert attaches who draw pay for their valuable services. Watson said Casper was "mistaken" about the cornice being changed three times and claimed it had only been changed twice. Crane forcibly insisted that Casper was right. This counter attraction diverted attention from the proceedings of the board and those who could not watch the performance in both rings at the same time turned their attention to the lobby. At this point the lie was passed and Watson jumped to his feet and struck at Crane. The latter kept his seat but threw out his feet in an energetic manner and kept Watson at bay. Before Watson could break through this guard bystanders separated them and attention was again turned to the proceedings of the board.

Member Poynter sided with Mr. Casper. He said he didn't like to vote against the men who had been nominated, as they were friends of his, but he called attention to the fact that he had named but one employe of the board.

EMPLOYS THE ASSISTANT.

Mr. Whitford had sat silently through the indignant speech of Mr. Casper, but he said that in order to test the sense of the board he would nominate George Nownes of Sarpy county to be assistant superintendent of horticulture. This motion carried with four votes "yes" and none in the negative, Messrs. Casper and Poynter not voting.

Mr. Boydston then essayed to pour oil on the troubled waters by moving the appointment of a committee of three to determine upon the number of employes to be permanently employed by the board and to "adjust" the number between the several districts of the state, taking into account the number already appointed. He suggested that he would favor allowing each member of the board to name the men to fill the positions assigned to his district.

This was carried unanimously and the chair appointed Commissioners Boydston, Poynter and Casper as the committee.

Before the storm arose over the distribution of "pie" Mrs. Helen R. Stires of Columbus, grand matron of the Order of the Eastern Star, appeared before the board and requested that the order be given a room in the state building for headquarters or be allotted desk room in the building.

Chairman Neville advocated delaying action on this matter, but Secretary Casper was in favor of "doing something" at once and coming to some conclusion.

This was discussed for some time and resulted in passing a motion instructing the assistant secretary to notify all societies in the state who want space in the Nebraska building for headquarters to make that fact known at once by an application in person or by mail. When these are received the whole matter will be taken up and some definite action taken, the nature of the action depending upon the number of societies.

WILL SETTLE WATER QUESTION.

Legal Formalities Are Nearly All Gone Through With.

The legal technicalities surrounding the furnishing of water to the exposition seem to be about overcome and there is every indication that the whole matter will be settled very soon. The stipulation by which the injunction is to be dissolved in the case of J. E. Baum against the city of Omaha, to restrain the city from paying past due hydrant rental to the water company, has been signed by Mr. Baum and the city authorities, and stipulation for the dismissal of the case of the Omaha Water company against J. E. Baum for damages on accounnt​ of the first named suit, has been signed by Mr. Baum. Both of these stipulations are in the hands of Mr. Montgomery, counsel for the exposition, and he says he will turn them over to the water company as soon as he receives the contract for the furnishing of water to the exposition, duly executed by the officials of the water company, the exposition officers have signed it several days ago. This contract is in the hands of Mr. Hall, attorney for the water company, and he says he is ready to turn it over to Mr. Montgomery in exchange for the stipulations of dismissal. A meeting between the two attorneys has been arranged for and it is expected that these formalities will be disposed of at once.

The officials of the water company say that as soon as these preliminaries are concluded and the city authorities have turned over the money or other evidence of indebtedness to the water company the connection with the exposition grounds will be made.

LOUISIANA IS BOUND TO COME.

Proposes to Be in Evidence at the Exposition.

NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 23.—(Special Telegram.)—The exposition excursionists arrived here at 9:30 this morning. After breakfast they marched in a body to the Board of Trade, where they were welcomed by President Broumh, who confined his remarks largely to the growing importance of New Orleans as a port for the shipment of western products, stating in that connection that the Crescent City was determined to secure the lion's share of the ocean business of the great northwest, promising also to soon provide streamers built expressly for the import trade. He stated that Louisiana was alive to the importance of transmississippi traffic and that the state would make a highly creditable showing; also the exposition.

Following the meeting at the Board of Trade the party was given a trolley ride over the city, visiting the great levee on the Mississippi side and being taken through the better residence portions of the city.

At 5 o'clock the delegation was escorted to the Jefferson club, where Governor Foster made an address. He promised hearty co-operation in making the exposition a success, recognized the growing importance of the great northwest and believed New Orleans the natural sea port for the products of that country. He also promised to be at Omaha during the coming summer and it is understood that it is his intention to take with him his official staff and a large retinue of Louisianans.

At Mobile the visitors were entertained by the Commercial club, taken up and down the river, viewing the immense lumber mills to the north and going as far down as the mouth of the government channel. The party leaves for Baton Rouge tomorrow morning.

DENVER, Colo., Feb. 23.—(Special Telegram.)—The Denver excursionists to the Omaha Exposition returned this morning. All expressed themselves as immensely pleased and surprised at the progress at the exposition grounds. The concensus​ of opinion seemed to by: "Omaha is all right; the Transmississippi Exposition is going to be a humer​." Mayor McMurray will call a mass meeting next week to devise ways and means under which the resources and manufactures of Colorado and Denver may be fully exhibited.

CLOSING DATES ON EXHIBITS

TUESDAY ENDS TIME FOR APPLICATIONS

Department Finds the Space All Occupied by the Most Desirable Class of Exhibitors—Making Out Acceptances.

March 1 is the date fixed by the rules of the Department of Exhibits as the last day of grace for the reception of applications for space in the exposition. After that time the individuals, firms, municipalities or states which have not filed their applications for space will have a hard time convincing the authorities that their applications for admission should be accepted. Another rule provides that no articles intended for exhibition will be admitted after May 1, and space not taken possession of by that time will revert to the exposition authorities for reassignment.

These dates are being very rapidly approached and the Department of Exhibits is growing in importance at a corresponding rate. Acceptances of applications are being sent out as fast as the necessary surveillance canbe​ had, and already 290 acceptances have been sent out. These represent a large number of applications, many of them being for collective exhibits, such as are to be made by states and large concerns where exhibits are made in several different buildings.

The policy of the department has been to proceed very deliberately in the matter of acceptances, and only those applications have been accepted which are regarded as particularly desirable. It was plainly apparent several weeks ago that the applications for space would far exceed the capacity of the bulidings​ and that it would be necessary to do a great deal of "weeding out" in order to select only the most desirable exhibits.

The acceptance of an application is followed by the assignment of the exact space the exhibit is to occupy and the plat of the building is marked to show the exact location and the amount of space thus disposed of.   This allotting of space has occupied the time of Superintendent Hardt for several weeks. He has devoted his evenings to the work in order to be free from interruption, and the main floor plans of each of the main buildings show that there is little or no space remaining unoccupied. In one or two of the buildings there are two small spaces still unassigned, but these will be occupied within a day or two. The galleries are the only hope of those who have not yet been assigned space and the limited amount of space in these will not accommodate a great many exhibitors. A large amount of space in some of the galleries has already been assigned.

Superintendent Hardt says that in making these selections from the great mass of applications on hand he has taken the greatest care to select exhibits which will make a complete and harmonious collection, covering the full range of the subject under consideration. He says that his experience in such matters shows him that the exhibitions which will be made in each of the buildings will be of the very highest grade of excellence, and that an exposition is assured which will be, from an exhibit standpoint, one of the most complete and magnificent affairs ever seen in this country. Every branch of art, science, manufacture, agriculture, mining and all the kindred industries will be fully and completely exemplified, with all the most advanced methods illustrated.

FLORIDA'S STATE COMMISSION.

Governor Bloxham Enlarges the Body, Which Reorganized.

Governor Bloxham of Florida has enlarged the exposition commission appointed by him some time ago and the commission has reorganized and is doing active work. As reorganized the commission stands: President, George W. Wilson, editor Florida Times-Union, Jacksonville; vice president, Henry Curtis, immigration agent Florida Central & Peninsular railway, Quincy; secretary, S. Boteler Thompson, passenger agent Florida Central & Pennsylvania railway, Lake City; treasurer, W. W. K. Decker, sponge dealer, Tarpon Springs; W. R. Carter, editor Metropolis, Jacksonville; C. B. Rogers, wholesale merchant, Jacksonville; F. P. Fleming, lawyer, Jacksonville; John D. Peabody, physician, Ozona; M. R. Marks, Orlando; G. Lawton Bryant, merchant, Lakeland; George W. Scobie, merchant, Titusville; J. C. S. Timberlake, hotel proprietor, Rockledge; W. S. Jordan, agent Florida Central and Pennsylvania railway, Madison; B. L. Porter, farmer, Grand Ridge; G. A. Danley, farmer, Chipley; Eric Von Axelson, land commissioner, Yellow River railroad, Laurel Hill.

Secretary Thompson is the executive officer of the commission and he reports to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that matters are in excellent shape in the Flower state and that it is hoped that the state will come to the assistance of the commission and aid it in making a fit and proper exhibit of the resources of the state. Whether this is done or not a good exhibit will be made, but it is the desire of the commission to have the showing as fine as it can be made and the assistance of the state would enable this to be done.

DATE FOR THE LABOR CONGRESS.

Committees Holr​ a Joint Session but Split on Dates.

The congress committee of the Woman's Board of Managers and the special committee appointed by the Central Labor union to take charge of the proposed labor congress, held a joint meeting at the office of the Woman's board in the Paxton block last night. All the members of both committees were present. It was decided that the labor congress shall be held during the entire week commencing with Monday, September 5. This date is Labor day, and it was decided that no more appropriate time could be chosen for such an event. It was also decided that a committee of men prominent in labor matters should be appointed to take charge of the arrangements for the program and other matters pertaining to the fixing of the scope of the congress. The personnel of this committee was the rock whereon the two committees split. The representatives of organized labor insisted that men prominent in the cause of organized labor should constitute the committee, and the women were equally insistent that the congress should not be confined to organized labor alone but should cover the broad ground of social economy and include all labor, whether organized or not.

The meeting adjourned without settling this question.

Arranging for the Annex.

The general character and size of the annex to the Manufactures building has been determined and Architect Humphreys of Denver, the architect of the Manufactures building, has returned home to commence work at once on the plans. The building will be approximately 184x145 feet in size, excepting a small space at one corner where a detour will be made to avoid an obstruction. There will be 18,606 square feet of floor space in the building as now planned, but provision is made for extending the building to the north almost indefinitely, as circumstances may require. The architecture of the annex will be in harmony with that of the Manufactures building. It will not have a gallery and will not be as high as the other buildings.

Invitations to Western States.

President Wattles has sent invitations to the governors of Utah, Kansas and Idaho, inviting them to visit Omaha in company with such committee or delegation as they may select to see the preparations that are being made for the exposition and learn for themselves the plan and scope of the enterprise.

These three states are the only ones in

EXPOSITION GETS WATER

CONNECTIONS WITH BIG MAINS MADE

Superintendent Hunt Moves Promptly to Care for the Arrangements—General Plan of the Service.

Water will be turned into the mains on the exposition grounds before the sun sets tonight. Mayor Moores attached his signature at an early hour to the resolution passed by the city council ordering the payment of the bills of the Omaha Water company. Even before this was done orders had been given to the workmen of the water company and a force of men was on the grounds making preparations to connect the city mains with those on the exposition grounds.

The exposition mains will be connected with the city mains at five different points in order to give a complete system of circulation. The connection on which work was first commenced was at Twenty-fourth and Pinckney streets. The big Twenty-fourth street main of the water company was tapped at Pinckney street at the time work was commenced on the water system of the exposition, and a twelve-inch pipe was laid to a point just outside the exposition fence. A valve was put in at this point and the pipe "blocked" to prevent damage. The twelve-inch main of the exposition system extends to within about fifteen feet of this valve, but the trench between these two points was filled in to prevent accidents. All that remained to be done to make the connections with the exposition system was to put in the fifteen feet of pipe and a meter and open the valve heretofore referred to. Superintendent Hunt estimated that this work would require the greater part of the day and he went out to the grounds early to personally oversee the work and expedite it as much as possible. As soon as the work is completed the water will be turned on.

Superintendent Hunt stated that as soon as the connection at Twenty-fourth and Pinckney is completed, the entire exposition grounds will be supplied with the regular fire pressure, but in order to make the system more complete and satisfactory connections will be made with the exposition system at Twenty-fourth and Manderson, Sixteenth and Pinckney and on Twentieth street at some ppoint​ to be hereafter determined. He says this will give complete circulation and would make the exposition system equal to any demand that may be made upon it.

COMMISSION ADJOURNS UNTIL MARCH

Sarpy County Offers an Old Chimney as an Exhibit.

At yesterday afternoon's meeting of the Nebraska Exposition commission the Horticultural society of sarpy county offered to move to the exposition grounds the stone chimney of the first mission house erected on Nebraska soil, providing the commission would furnish the necessary space. The offer was accepted, and the ancient chimney will be in evidence on the grounds.

Former Governor Furnas offered his extensive collection of native woods to the commission for exhibition, and this offer was accepted.

A discussion arose among the members of the commission over a request of Kimball Brothers, the staff contractors, for instructions as to how to proceed in putting a strip of staff moulding around the base of the Nebraska building, and also making a claim for extra pay if the moulding is to be put on. This discussion developed the fact that Architect Craddock and Superintendent Blake have been making numerous changes in the construction of the Nebraska building without consulting the commission, and have added several hundred dollars to the cost by this proceeding. The strip of moulding spoken of by Kimball Brothers was shown to be one of these unauthorized changes, but inquiry developed the fact that the construction had been so changed that the strip could not be omitted without causing an additional cost of over $300 for making the change.

This development, together with the frequent changes in the cornice referred to by Commissioner Casper in his speech about experts, combined to produce "that tired feeling" on the part of the members of the commission, and after a short discussion Chairman Neville was appointed a committee of one to take charge of the building until the next meeting of the commission, and he was given full authority to discharge the entire working force, if he deemed that course necessary, and also to adjust the difficulty concerning the staff work in the manner that he considered best.

This concluded the business of the board and it adjourned until March 8.

ORATORIO FOR THE EXPOSITION.

Willard Patten's "Isaiah" to Be Produced by a Grand Chorus.

Minneapolis people are entering into the spirit of the exposition heartily, especially the musical department, and are enlisting much support among their neighbors. Their object is to secure a good choral production of the oratorio "Isaiah," the work of a Minneapolis composer. In this connection the Minneapolis Times of February 22 has this to say:

Willard Patten's oratorio, "Isaiah," will be produced on a grand scale this summer at Omaha, as a leading musical feature of the Transmississippi Exposition. Word was received yesterday from the musical director of the exposition, definitely placing the work on the musical program and agreeing in a general way as to the terms. Minnesota's musical masterpiece will occupy a place of honor. It will be sung by a great chorus collected from the great cities of the west, accompanied by the Thomas orchestra, which is to play five weeks at the exposition.

The exposition management has agreed to furnish the Thomas orchestra for the event, also four soloists who shall be satisfactory. The production will be in an auditorium on the exposition grounds, seating 3,000 people. The plan at present is to collect a Minnesota chorus of 250 voices, of which Minneapolis will furnish the larger part. Choruses will be organized in St. Paul, Duluth and possibly other cities, which will study "Isaiah" and come together at Minneapolis for a final rehearsal before going to Omaha. Then the Apollo club of Chicago has already arranged to go and large choral societies of St. Joseph, Denver and Salt Lake City are planning to attend. This will in all probably take up the work and after one final rehearsal with the orchestra the grand chorus of several hundred voices will produce it. No selection of soloists has yet been made and it is among the possibilities that some of the leading lights of grand opera will be secured as features of the exposition and will sing the solo parts in "Isaiah."

The Minnesota commissioners have not taken official action in the matter, but a meeting will be held some time next week, at which they will no doubt officially adopt the oratorio as a Minnesota feature and they will probably ask that it be given the place of honor in the program which will open the exposition to the public about June 1. Three members of the commission were seen yesterday by the Times and they were enthusiastic over the matter. They said there could be no question that the commission would give its official endorsement.

The Chicago musical colony is enthusiastic over "Isaiah" and the suggestion that it be produced at Omaha came from there, in a letter to Mr. Patten from a musician who was to him a total stranger. When the suggestion was presented to F. H. Peavey, vice president for Minnesota, he took it up enthusiastically and at once wrote to Omaha. Willard Kimball of Lincoln, musical director of the exposition, heard "Isaiah" produced in an eastern city and needed no urging to see that it would be a strong feature for the exposition. The work of a western man, produced in the west by western people, it would prove to eastern visitors that there was something here besides raw materials.

He at once sent a favorable reply and the matter was then taken up actively. J. M. Anderson of the Metropolitan Music company was appointed a member of the commission by Governor Clough, who heartily approved of the plan. A rough draft of it was sent to Omaha and the letter received yesterday endorsed it. So nothing remains but working out the details.

Local musical people are enthusiastic and there is a remarkable sameness of opinion among them. The usual professional jealousy seems to have been entirely laid aside and they are all anxious to see the oratorio produced and Mr. Patten given full credit for his work. He will receive earnest support from the whole fraternity here when it is needed and Chicago musicians are enthusiastic. Editor Mathews of Music, who so warmly commended "Isaiah," has put his shoulder to the wheel. Carberry, the soloist, who sung the tenor role so successfully here last winter, has taken hold actively. Singers the country over are using solos from "Isaiah" and the local work is being well advertised. Its production at Omaha will be a crowning feature in its career.

"People in the east have an idea that we have lots of wheat and lumber in Minnesota, but very little else," said J. M. Anderson of the Metropolitan Music company last evening. "We want to show them that we have some degree of culture here and that western soil produces something more than raw materials. Minnesota should be proud of such a work."

CONSIDERING SOME CONCESSIONS.

Executive Committee Has a Busy Session Over Privileges.

The subject of hot roast beef sandwiches consumed considerable of the time of the exposition executive committee yesterday afternoon, that having been made the special order for yesterday's meeting. No conclusion was reached, however, and the matter was laid over until today for the awarding of the concession. There are about a dozen applicants for this concession and they are hot on the trail.

F. N. Mervin of Beaver City, secretary of the Nebraska Press association, suggested that the exposition management provide a building for headquarters for the visiting newspaper men and said the association would assist in paying for the services of an attendant. The matter was referred to Manager Rosewater.

BIDS ON TRANSPORTATION BUILDING.

Contractors Make Offers for Its Immediate Erection.

Bids for the construction of the Transportation and Agricultural Implement building were opened at the office of the Department of Buildings and Grounds at noon today. There were only three bids, each of these being for the complete building, including the necessary plastering. The style of architecture adopted for the north tract obviates the use of staff, the buildings being in the style known as mediaeval, or Swiss farm architecture, the heavy timbers being exposed and the intervening spaces covered with rough plaster. This building is to be about 400x600 feet in size and one story in height, except in the center, where a clear story will carry it to the height of two stories.

These were the bids: R. C. Strehlow, $37,775; Westlake Construction company, $41,692; William Goldie & Sons company, $37,440.

Southern California is Alive.

Notwithstanding the action of the commercial bodies of San Francisco in deciding to make no effort to have a California exhibit at the exposition, the counties of southern California are taking energetic action for an exhibit of the resources of that portion of the state, with a very flattering prospect of success, regardless of what is done by the more northern counties. The supervisors of Los Angeles county have appropriated $1,500 toward a fund for a Los Angeles exhibit and a fund of $10,000 has been raised for an exhibit. Active work is being done in San Bernardino, San Diego, Riverside and Orange counties, and committees have been appointed in these counties to raise funds.

Denverites Are Enthusiastic.

DENVER, Colo., Feb. 28.—(Special Telegram.)—Three hundred representative citizens attended a meeting tonight for the purpose of discussing the construction of a Denver building at the Transmississippi Exposition. The delegates who visited Omaha last week made detailed reports. Governor Adams, Lieutenant Governor Brush, Ex-Mayor Platt Rogers, Mayor McMurray and others made addresses creating great enthusiasm. A committee composed of nine leading merchants were appointed to secure funds for the construction of the building. The state commission is working with success in arranging exhibits for the different departments.

Topeka Wants the Building.

A rather novel proposition comes from Topeka, Kan. The citizens of that town have raised a fund of $16,000 for an auditorium building and a proposition has been made to the exposition management by which the money will be turned into the fund for a Kansas exhibit, provided the exposition management will agree to turn over to Topeka the material in the Auditorium building on the exposition ground for removal to Topeka, where they propose to reconstruct it. By this means they hope to secure a fine exhibit at the exposition and still devote the money to the purpose for which it was collected. The railroads of Kansas have agreed to contribute $15,000 toward an exhibit if the people of the state will contribute a like amount, and the Topeka scheme would more than comply with this condition.

The proposition was made to the Department of Publicity and Promotion and the Kansas promoters have been apprised of the nature of the construction of the Auditorium building and informed that the exposition management will perform its share of the scheme if the people of Kansas desire to enter into such an arrangement.

Notes of the Exposition.

E. Elvoir & Co. of Madeleine, France, have applied for space for an exhibit of sugar beet seed.

Clay county, South Dakota, has appropriated $500 to the South Dakota fund for an exhbit​ at the exposition.

The American Association of Nurserymen will hold its annual meeting in Omaha during the second week of the exposition, the dates for the meeting being June 7, 8 and 9.

The Minnesota commission will meet Thursday of this week at the office of Governor Clough in Minneapolis, to conclude arrangements for Minnesota's participation in the exposition.

W. H. Green, the conductor of the excursion which returned Sunday from a two weeks' trip through the east and south, is now projecting a trip to the northwest, extending to Puget Sound and down the Pacific coast.

General Superintendent Foster is having a complete outfit of night watch system alarm boxes installed on the exposition grounds in order to make certain that the night watchmen employed on the grounds performed their duties properly.

Special Agent Lleyellyn reports to the Department of Publicity and Promoton​ from Spokane that the prospects is good for an exhibit of minerals from eastern and northern Washington. He says the minng​ exchanges are taking the matter up and the outlook is encouraging.

F. M. Murphy, president of the Sante Fe & Prescott Railway company, writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he is confident that a fine exhibit of Arizona minerals will be made by the Mining exchange of Prescott. He says he is co-operating with the exchange and considerable in-[?]

H. A. Watrous of Des Moines, president of the American Pomological society, writes to the Department of Exhibits that he believes the prospect is encouraging for a meeting of the society at Omaha during the coming year. The meetings of this society are held once in two years and 1898 is an "off year," but an effort is being made to secure an extra meeting.

Nodaway county, Missouri, has organized an exposition committee and this body is now engaged in raising a fund of $2,500 to provide for a county exhibit at the exposition. The county commissioners have been asked to appropriate $500 for this fund and the Commercial club of Maryville has approprated​ a like amount. The scheme is making good progress and a good exhibit is said to be assured.

DETAILS OF THE CONVENTION

LOCAL COMMITTEE OUTLINES THE WORK

Five General Meetings, with Numerous Sessions of Sections, Departments and Congresses—Colliseum​ Hall is Secured.

The local committee having in charge the matter of making preparations for the Transmississippi Educational convention to be held at Omaha June 28, 29 and 30 has issued circular No. 1, outlining the plan and giving a number of details in relation to the preliminary work which will interest those having to do with educational work. These circulars are to be sent to state superintendents of education in all of the transmississippi states with the request that they distribute them to the teachers in all of the counties and cities in their jurisdiction.

The following extracts are made from the circular:

"The Transmississippi Educational conven- has been organized to promote the educational interests of the states participating in the Transmississippi Exposition. It aims to give teachers and schoolmen the benefits accruing from a great gathering of representative educators interchanging ideas and listening to addresses of recognized leaders in the different branches of pedagogic work. While following in general scope the meetings of the National Educational association, it seeks to supplement its work and extend its influence. The plan and object of the convention have been endorsed by resolution of the State Teachers' associations of Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, Montana and Colorado.

DATE AND SCOPE.

"The date of the convention has been fixed for the last three days of June. This will give ample time for finishing up the closing work of the schools, for attending the convention, for visiting the exposition and, if desirable, to go on east for the National Educational association. The days of the week are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The time assures fair weather and moderate temperature.

"The convention will consist of five general meetings and numerous sessions of sections, departments and congresses. For the general meetings the program will provide addresses by educators of national reputation upon topics of general educational interest. The conference will be under direction of leading specialists in each field, as follows, so far as determined: School boards, arranged by Hon. J. H. Trewin, Lansing, Ia.; secondary schools and colleges, President secondary schools and colleges, President James H. Baker, University of Colorado; rural schools; manual training; teachers of deaf and blind, Prof. J. A. Gillespie of Omaha; teachers of history, Prof. F. M. Fling, University of Nebraska; teachers of English, Prof. Hopkins, University of Kansas; teachers of science, Prof. Charles E. Bessey, University of Nebraska; teachers of music, Prof. C. H. Congdon, St. Paul, Minn.; teachers of drawing; kindergartens; child study.

"Those conferences for which leaders are not named are still in process of arrangement.

"Aside from the program outlined the Transmississippi and International Exposition will be the great attraction. The exposition will be opened at Omaha, June 1, and it is conceded will be second to none except the World's fair. In it will be represented not less than thirty-five states of the union, besides many foreign nations. This exposition will be a graphic illustration of the resources and development of the western half of the American continent and will afford an education in itself. One of the special features will be the educational exhibits now in preparation by the schools of almost all the western states, illustrating the methods and results of advanced educational systems. Exhibits of text books, school furniture, literary apparatus and of the printing and book making trades promise to excel anything ever before attempted.

NO SPECIAL EXPENSE.

"There will be no special expense whatever imposed upon visitors except the moderate charge of 50 cents for the handsome official badge, which will entitle the holder to all privileges of the convention. Voluntary contributions in sums of 50 cents and over to the expenses of the meeting are, however, acceptable and will be properly receipted with the official badge—a beautiful souvenir [?]

"Special reduced railroad rates will be put in force for this convention equal to the best ever accorded any other educational gathering. In addition, limits, conditions, and deposit privileges will be arranged most favorable to those who wish to attend the Transmississippi Educational convention en route to other points and have their excursion tickets available on the return trip later in the summer or fall.

"The general meetings will be held in the Coliseum, in which the national convention of the people's party made its nominations in 1892. This hall has a seating capacity of 10,000. The section meetings and congresses will be held in the smaller halls, with which the city is abundantly supplied.

"Entertainment is promised in the way of a special day at the exposition, special night illuminations, social receptions, and, if possible, a grand school and college parade.

"While the local executive committee and its subcommittees have taken upon themselves the preliminary arrangements and work of entertainment, the program is being constructed with the help of an advisory board, including members from the various transmississippi states. The advice, suggestions and co-operation of all persons interested in educational institutions is respectfully solicited."

MORE PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE.

Additional Fire Fighting Apparatus at Exposition Grounds.

A regular meeting of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners was held last night; present Commissioners Peabody, Herdman and Bullard. A communication was read from the chief of the fire department giving an estimate of the needed fire protection at the exposition grounds. It advised that seventeen men be stationed on the grounds, five on each of two hose wagons and seven on the hook and ladder truck. The communication was considered and an immediate addition to the force on the grounds was ordered to the extent of one hose cart and two men.

MEETING OF EXPOSITION CHORUS.

Members Becoming Deeply Interested in Their Work.

The second meeting of the Transmississippi Exposition chorus at Hayden's Music hall last night, was even more successful than the first meeting one week before. There were a number of new faces in the seats occupied by the chorus when Choral Director Kelly swung his baton for the first number and the volume of sound was all that could be expected from a chorus numbering about 120.

The entire evening was devoted to Charles Gounod's "By Babylon's Wave," a most difficult number, full of traps and pitfalls for the unwary but one of the most beautiful concerted numbers ever written. Director Kelly exercised the greatest care and patience in drilling each branch of the chorus on the difficult portions of the work and the members showed a degree of intelligence and interest which was warmly commented on by Musician Director Kimball who was an interested observer of the work of the chorus.

At the conclusion of the drill Director Kimball made a short talk to the members of the chorus, informing them that the celebrated Theodore Thomas orchestra has been secured for an engagement covering the first five weeks of the exposition, with a possibility that the engagement may be extended over a second five weeks. This organization will accompany the chorus in all its performances. Mr. Kimball called the attention of the members to the fact that this would be the first time this orchestra has played an engagement of over one week west of Chicago.

Mr. Kelly also talked for a few moments, speaking of the charge of $5 which is made for membership in the chorus. He stated that a membership ticket carries with it the privilege of admission to every concert given in the Auditorium during the exposition and explained that this meant at least $25 worth of admissions, as a season ticket to the Auditorium concerts is already contemplated, these tickets to be sold for $25 each. For their services in singing, the members of the chorus are to be given these tickets for $5 each, thus saving $20 by being in the chorus. Mr. Kelly also took occasion to deny the rumors that are being circulated by some of his alleged friends to the effect that he receives nothing for his services except what is derived from the fees paid by members of the chorus. He denounced these reports as being absolutely untrue, and stated that he received a fixed salary from the exposition management, regardless of the fees paid by members of the chorus.

The next meeting of the chorus will be held at Hayden's music hall Monday evening of next week, at 8 o'clock.

EXAMINES THE NEBRASKA BUILDING.

Chairman Neville Says the Structure Will Be Completed Next Week.

Chairman William Neville of the Nebraska Exposition commission came to Omaha yesterday to investigate the reports about the condition of the Nebraska building and the rumors of many changes in the plans of the structure, which were freely ventilated at   the last meeting of the commission, at which time he was appointed a committee to take such action in the matter as the situation seemed to require.

After making a trip to the grounds and looking over the buildings, making such inquiry as seemed necessary, Chairman Neville announced that he found the building so near completion that he thought best not to do anything to stop the work. He said the staff work would be completed within a few days and the carpenter work and all be finished by the last of next week. One or two changes that were contemplated he had stopped and had left positive instructions with Superintendent Blake that no more changes of any kind should be allowed.

The monthly report of the condition of the fund of $100,000 appropriated by the legislature for Nebraska's participation in the exposition has been made out by Bookkeeper Dan Althen and forwarded to Governor Holcomb. This report shows the following condition of the fund on March 1:

The total unexpended balance in the fund March 1 is $55,577.48.

EXPOSITION CELEBRATIONS

PRESIDENT WATTLES OUTLINING THE PLANS

Arrangements for Receptions, Parades and the Like Under Consideration—Display for the Opening Day's Exercises.

The arranging of programs for celebrations in connection with the exposition, special days, entertainment of distinguished guests, and all the other details which are a necessary adjunct to the proper carrying on of such a great public enterprise, but which do not properly belong to any of the various departments of the exposition, are matters which have been delegated to the president of the exposition to carry out, with the approval and advice of the executive committee. President Wattles has, therefore, been giving this matter considerable attention of late and has perfected an outline of a plan for the early days of the exposition which will be laid before the executive committee at an early day.

The president believes that the opening exercises should be made noteworthy in every respect and should be on a scale commensurate with the magnitude of the exposition. His plan comprehends making the event one of the most imposing celebrations ever seen in the west, surpassing in the extent and character of the military and civic display anything ever before attempted in this section. He would ask the governor of Nebraska and the mayor of Omaha to issue special proclamations declaring June 1, the opening day of the exposition, a general holiday in order that every man, woman and child who can possibly do so may come to Omaha and participate in the celebration. Invitations will be issued to the governor of each state in the union to come to Omaha on that day, accompanied by his entire staff and escort. Members of both houses of congress will also be invited and arrangements will be made for a special train from Washington to Omaha. The correspondents of the great papers of the country stationed at the national capital will be invited to accompany the congressional party.

In addition to the distinguished visitors every military and civic society in this section of the country will be invited to take part in the great parade which will pass through the streets of Omaha during the morning. There will be military organizations galore and bands will be sprinkled along the line in profusion. Civic societies of all kinds will be in line, and, to cap the climax, the concessionaires of the Midway will be there with their attractions, including the dusky denizens of the Afro-American village, the dark-skinned beauties from the Turkish harem, the Chinese artists and actors; people from the German village, Irish village, Streets of Cairo, Cosmopolis, animals in profusion, including camels, elephants, lions, tigers, etc.

The line of march will end at the exposition grounds and the opening exercises will take place in the Auditorium. These will include speeches by various celebrities, music by the Exposition chorus, the Thomas orchestra and well known soloists and the reading of an appropriate ode composed for the occasion by some western poet.

Arrangements will be made to have President McKinley start the machinery of the exposition by electricity, and the exercises will be concluded in some fitting manner.

SAMPLES OF CHILDRENS' WORK.

Entries in the Individual Competition Are Beginning to Arrive.

Entries to the individual competition instituted by the Woman's Board of Managers, for the purpose of securing a large number of meritorious specimens of children's handiwork for the educational display, have commenced to arrive. The completion closes April 15, at which time the judges selected for the purpose will pass upon the merits of the various entries and award the prizes provided for that purpose.

This competition covers every branch of school work and it is provided in the rules that all work winning a prize shall be given a place in the educational display to be made by the board. There are three branches which seem to be much more popular with the majority of competitors than any of the others. These are drawing, composition and the transmississippi history puzzle. The puzzle has proved a strong attraction and applications have been received by Secretary Ford from every state in the union, asking for copies of it.

Specimens of drawing have been received which show a high order of merit and articles of various kinds are being received daily.

The time within which entries may be made in the nature study series has been extended to May 15, in order to give competitors an opportunity to gather specimens during the early spring. All other branches close April 15.

South Dakota Holds Its Space.

The latest news received by the Department of Exhibits from South Dakota removes any doubt that may have existed regarding an exhibit from that state. Governor Lee telegraphed the department as follows: "State be represented without fail; be sure to hold space for us." J. P. Hymer of Deadwood, commissioner for the Black Hills region, writes that the mining interests of that portion of the state will be represented by an exhibit. He states that some arrangement is being made by which the necessary money will be secured through the county commissioners, but he does not go into detail beyond saying that an indemnity bond has been secured and will be given to the commissioners.

Woman's Club Quarters.

Mrs. Draper Smith of Omaha, secretary of the Nebraska Federation of Woman's clubs, has withdrawn the application filed by her with the Nebraska Exposition commission, in which she requested that the federation be given a room in the State building as headquarters. Mrs. Smith explained that she had learned that the federation could secure space in the Liberal Arts building for use as headquarters and she has filed an application for a space 10x20 feet, for which the Nebraska federation intends to pay the regular space charge. The headquarters will be established in the gallery of the Liberal Arts building, near the educational exhibit.

New York's State Commission.

Governor Black has announced the names of the gentlemen who are to compose the New York commission for the Transmississippi and International Exposition. They need no introduction in the world of business and little, if any, commendation to the general public. Here is the list: Chauncey M. Depew, John Jacob Astor, W. Seward Webb, Henry B. Hobart and Abel E. Blackman of New York; Charles N. Stowe of Deposit, Jacob Amos of Syracuse and John C. Graves of Buffalo.

The interests represented by these men are immense. No news is had of their intentions.

Model of the Maine.

One of the features of the display which will be made in the government building by the Navy department will be a model of the battleship Maine and it is more than likely that this miniature vessel will be the center of attraction. The model is now exposed to public view in the corridor just outside of the office of the secretary of the Navy in Washington. It is said to be one of the finest models of a battleship in the possession of the government. The model cost $6,000.

Georgia Asks for Plans.

Chairman Northen of the Georgia Exposition commission has asked the Department of Exhibits to secure plans for a Georgia building to cost not to exceed $6,000.

GARDENER ULRICH AT WORK

LANDSCAPE ARTIST ON THE HUSTLE

Proposes to Make Kountze Park and Bluff Tract Blossom Like a Garden of Paradise Before Summer.

Rudolf Ulrich of New York, the landscape architect who was engaged last summer to design and execute landscaping of the exposition grounds, has arrived in the city with the intention of remaining until the work is completed. A force of men will be put to work on the grounds at once and no time will be lost in making the grounds "a thing of beauty and a joy" all summer.

There is an immense amount of work to be done, but Mr. Ulrich has the reputation of accomplishing more work in a given amount of time than any other man who ever attempted to expedite the workings of nature. The prestidigitator who causes a rose bush in full bloom to grow in two minutes on the bare top of a table couldn't "hold a candle" to Mr. Ulrich. At his command huge giants of the forest will rear their heads on spots never accused of growing anything more lofty than the emerald stocks of Indian maize. Shrubs of all kinds, both flowering and non-flowering, will displace the rank growth of noisome weeds, and winding paths ending in cool, shady nooks, will transform the erstwhile prairie into a veritable garden of the gods.

The beautifying of the grounds will be carried on in all parts of the grounds will be carried on in all parts of the grounds at the same time. Mr. Ulrich says the time is now ripe for pushing the work with all possible speed, and he hopes to complete the work of planting trees, shrubs, etc., within the next two or three weeks. A number of trees have been transplanted to the bluff tract, bordering the main avenue leading from the Grand Plaza to the Horticulture building. In the main court a row of Lombardy poplars has been planted in front of the Manufactures and Agriculture buildings. These are between thirty and forty feet in height. A lot of box elder trees about twenty feet in height are on the ground ready to be placed near the poplars, the latter standing at the top and the former at the bottom of a terrace extending along the entire front of these buildings.

The space between the Machinery and Manufactures buildings, as well as that between the Mines and Liberal Arts buildings, will be parked in an attractive style and the same may be said of the space between the Liberal Arts and the Art building, on either side of the main entrance.

NEBRASKA'S BEAUTIFUL WOMEN.

Judge Neville Selects Two for the Exposition Medal.

Judge William Neville, to whom was left the task of choosing the two most beautiful of Nebraska's lovely women for the exposition medal, writes The Bee as follows:

NORTH PLATTE, March 2.—To the Editor of The Bee: I have selected Miss May O'Shea of Lincoln and Miss Netta Harmer of Syracuse for the composite photograph (exposition medal) and have forwarded the photos to Chairman Lindsay. I have positive proof that Nebraska has more beautiful women than any state in the union, and the decorations in the Nebraska headquarters, as well as the medal, will confirm my statement. Yours truly,

Exposition Chorus Progress.

Choral Director Kelly said, when asked about the exposition chorus this morning, that the chorus is filling up rapidly and making good progress. The executive committee considers having future meetings of the chorus in the Board of Trade building. Prof. Kelly will try voices at his studio in the Boyd theater building next Saturday from 2 till 5 p. m.

Prof. Chambers is organizing an auxiliary chorus in Council Bluffs, and will train his singers under the direction of the Omaha management.

Mr. Kelly says that he is glad to find that musical people are realizing that the exposition chorus is not a private undertaking, but a society organized by and under the direct control of the Transmississippi and International Exposition. It is a thing of national interest and the persons who remain out of it will be the losers. Monday night the chorus will take up "Daughter of Jairus" by Dr. Stainer, and also the Easter hymn from "Cavalleria Rusticana."

Illinois Building Plans.

The Illinois commission is now considering the advisability of building an annex to the beautiful state building which is now in course of erection on the bluff tract. The purpose of the commission is to make this annex an art gallery, in which will be displayed many of the valuable paintings and other works of art owned in Illinois. It will also afford a place for four magnificent   paintings, 10x20 feet in size, showing the World's fair, thus affording another opportunity of viewing the white city, which seemed to have risen as if by magic from the lake, a veritable wonderland, which was the world's greatest achievement in architectural magnitude and beauty, and which is now only a fading memory to those who saw it.

The annexe​ will be in the same style of architecture as the main state building and will be connected with it by a covered colonnade, adding greatly to the beauty of the Illinois building.

Douglas County Horticulturists.

The Douglas County Horticultural society held a meeting at the Commercial club yesterday afternoon to discuss ways and means of having a county exhibit at the exposition. The society had a conference with the county commissioners a few days ago with a view of securing a portion of the proceeds of the county exposition bonds for such an exhibit, but no satisfactory conclusion was reached. The report of the result of this conference formed the basis of the discussion at yesterday's meeting.

It was finally decided that the only way in which a county exhibit can be made is through such an appropriation, inasmuch as the members of the society feel that they cannot afford to subscribe any money for the purpose. A communication will be sent to the county commissioners soliciting the appropriation of a sum for the exhibit and recommending, in case the appropriation is passed and the exhibit is made, that it be put in charge of W. L. Crosby.

Admission to the Grounds.

The contract with Concessionaire Swobe, who has had charge of the skating and toboggan slide on the exposition grounds, will expire Tuesday of next week and the full control of admission to the grounds will on that date pass into the hands of the bureau of admissions, of which Manager Lindsey is the chairman. No attempt has been made to restrict admission into any part of the grounds except the main court and no change in that respect is contemplated in the near future. It is stated semi-officaily​, that greater restrictions will be thrown around the main court than heretofore. The work on this portion of the grounds has reached a stage where the presence f​ a large number of people is quite detrimental and some means will ave​ to be resorted to in order that no delay may be caused.

Maryland's Commission.

The governor of Maryland has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he will sonn​ increase the Maryland Exposition commission by adding three more men. As at present constituted the commission consists of two men and three women and the contemplated appointments will give it a membership of eight.

Colonel Maxson on Nevada.

Colonel H. B. Maxson of Reno, exposition vice president for Nevada and chairman of the Nevada Exposition commission, has arrived in the city en route home from Washington, D. C. He reiterates what he said when in the city several weeks ago, that Nevada will be well represented with an exhibit of minerals as well as agricultural and horticultural products.

Tiffany's Exhibit.

The Tiffany company, the well known New York jewelers, propose to erect a booth 80x24 feet in size in which they intend to install a magnificent exhibit of jewelry of all kinds. They have notified the Department of Exhibits that they will expend fully $10,000 in preparing and maintaining their exhibit, and they request especial protection in the way of guards in order to protect their valuable display from thieves. One of the features of this display according to this notice to the Exhibits department, will be a diamond valued at $500,000, and there will be a large number of other jewels of great value, hence their solicitude regarding police protection.

American Forestry Association.

B. E. Fernow, chief of the division of forestry of the Department of Agriculture of the federal government, and chairman of the executive committee of the American Forestry association, has notified Prof. Taylor, chief of the bureau of forestry, horticulture, agriculture and irrigation, that the society will hold a meeting in Omaha during the latter part of July ,or early in August. This association holds its annual meeting in the winter, but holds other meetings at irregular intervals during the summer, and the meeting at Omaha will come in between a meeting in the Yosemite valley and another at Boston.

Applications for Space.

Among the applications for space which have been received within the last few days by the Department of Exhibits are the following: Puck Soap company of Columbus Junction, Ia., toilet articles, soap, etc., sixty-four feet; J. W. H. Crawford, Delhi, Ne. Y., 400 feet, for a display of pneumatic tire and ball bearing axles for carriages; Buffalo Forge company of New York, 200 feet, for its latest design of engines; Nebraska Seed company of Omaha, fifty feet, for seeds and poultry food; Trenton Pottery company, New Jersey, 360 feet; Columbia university, 350 feet; Frank Crawford, Omaha, handy heaters.

Kansas Asks for Space.

Governor Leedy of Kansas telegraphed to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that the state will certainly be represented by an exhibit and requested that space be held in reserve for Kansas. No commission has yet been announced from the Sunflower state, but the telegram of the governor is an assurance that action will be taken very soon.

Union Pacific Helps Idaho.

The members of the Idaho Exposition commission, as well as the people of that state, are rejoicing over the announcement that the Union Pacific railroad will furnish free transportation for material intended for exhibition at the exposition. The success of the Idaho exhibit was seriously threatened a week or two ago by the fact that a railroad which had been depended upon to assist in transporting exhibits had established a rate which was practically prohibitive. The Union Pacific came to the rescue, however, and a fine exhibit is assured.

Interest in Washington and Oregon.

Special Agent C. E. Llewellyn of the Department of Publicity and Promotion has returned from the Pacific coast, where he has been engaged in arousing an interest in the exposition among the people in the extreme northwest section of the union. He reports that the people in both Washington and Oregon are enthusiastic regarding the exposition and are determined to be on hand with exhibits. Both states have appointed commissions, which are energetically at work, and Mr. Llewellyn says that all the leading industries of these states will be well represented by exhibits.

The Washington Exposition commission comprises the following: George W. Thompson, Tacoma; George B. Stetson, Phillip F. Kelly and L. M. Wood, Seattle; W. J. Spillman, Pullman; J. E. Baker, Tacoma; C. H. Thompson, Spokane; C. H. Clark, Spencer.

Double Time for Sunday Work.

There is a slight indication of trouble in connection with the plastering of the Nebraska building, but nothing serious is anticipated. The plater contractors concluded to work their men last Sunday on account of the fine weather and after the day had passed the men put in a claim for "double time," as provided by the union scale of wages for Sunday work. The contractors refused to allow the extra pay and the local union at once took up the matter. It will be laid before the Nebraska commission at the next meeting and the contractors will probably be required to comply with the demands of the men. The building is almost completed and one or two days more will give plenty of time for finishing the plastering, so there is no probability fo​ a strike.

Promotion in New York.

A. M. Wheeler has been commissioned by the Department of Publicity and Promotion to represent the exposition in Albany, N. Y., in the endeavor to promote an appropriation by the New York legislature for state participation in the exposition.

E. T. Bickford, the commissioner of the department who has been in New York for some time, and to whose efforts the appointment of the New York commission is due, will turn his attention to Massachusetts and Rhode Island and endeavor to expedite exposition matters in those states.

Notes of the Exposition.

Six applicants for space in the Agricultural, Implement and Transportation building have been received.

The Westliche Post of St. Louis, one of the principal German dailies of the west, will erect a booth in the Manufactures building for use as headquarters by its representatives and friends.

The plans for the Dairy and Apiary buildings will be completed some time this week and will be turned over to the Department of Buildings and Grounds. Bids for their construction will be asked at once and work on them will be pushed.

EXTENSIVE RUSSIAN EXHIBIT.

Application for Space Comes Through the Paris Commissioner.

An application for space for a Russian exhibit on a large scale has been received by the Department of Exhibits. The application comes through Frederick Mayer, the French commissioner of the exposition, who vouches for the responsibility of the parties making the application. These parties propose to occupy a large space adjoining the French section in the foreign building and in this they propose to install on exhibit which shall be gorgeous in its magnificence and conducted in true Russian style. In this section will be displayed costly furs from the land of the czar, bronzes, stoneware, carved stone tables, decorative furniture, artistic brassware, Russian carpets, etc. A Russian tea house will be reproduced in one part of the display and Russians in national costume will be in attendance at all times.

Art Exhibit Plans.

Art Director Griffiths writes to the Department of Exhibits from Detroit that preparations for the art exhibit have now reached a point where he is able to state with authority that the display in the Art building will be first-class in every respect. He says the best artists of New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Pittsburg and other art centers have promised to send their best works. These pictures have been seen by Mr. Griffiths, and he says that he bases his prediction on personal knowledge.

In summing up the situation, Mr. Griffiths says he has in hand sixty oil paintings from New York, sixty-three from Boston and Philadelphia, seventy-five from Paris and seventy-five at Detroit, among the last named being a number of the works of Scotch artists. He also has 225 water colors and drawings in black and white, making a total of 500, besides the large number of paintings in St. Louis, Cincinnati, Washington and Philadelphia which are available, and another large lot from New York artists who have promised to send their pictures after the close of the spring exhibitions in the east.

Arkansas Pushing Preparations.

The Arkansas Exposition commission is pushing things in that state and is going ahead with its preparations as fast as possible, relying upon the public spirit and generosity of the people to stand behind the commission by raising the necessary funds. The state has been divided into districts and a vice president appointed for each with contributions. The secretary is advertising for bids for a building 70x70 feet in size. It is to be constructed entirely of Arkansas lumber and is to cost not to exceed $7,500. The architects are given until March 10 to submit plans and the successful competitor must submit plans and the successful competitor must submit full specification not later than March 20. The competition is confined to Arkansas architects. A large committee has been appointed to induce the railroads to co-operate with the commission by contributing to the funds of the commission and by granting reduced railroad rates on exhibits.

Executive Committee Meeting.

At a meeting of the executive committee yesterday afternoon the members of the Board of County Commissioners were present and the amount and location of the space to be alotted​ Douglas county for an exhibit of its products was discussed at length. There was no disagreement and the matter was settled in a manner perfectly satisfactory to both parties.

Manager Reed announced that George F. Stich, to whom the concession for the Afro-American village had been let, had not carried out his contract and he recommended that the concession be awarded to John F. Coad, Thomas Hoctor and J. P. Finley. This was agreed to and a contract will be made with these parties.

Mayer, Katskee & Cross were awarded the concession for selling fresh fruits and melons.

Bureau of Public Comfort.

Preparations are being made by the Bureau of Public Comfort to open an office on the sixth floor of the Paxton building alongside the rooms occupied by the Department of Transportation. Active operations will be commenced at once by this adjunct to the exposition. A force of men will be put to work to canvass the city and schedule the rooms where lodgers will be accommodated and the places where meals will be furnished together with thep rices​ and such other information as will be desirable. All of this data will be tabulated and strangers will be provided with information without cost.

Change in the Offices.

The Department of Concessions has changed its quarters and now occupies a suite of six rooms on the north side of the top floor of the Paxton block. The large room occupied jointly by the Department of Exhibits and the Concession department is now used by the former and the small room adjoining, which has just been vacated by the Concessions department, will be occupied by Mayor Clarkson, assistant to the president.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Delaware County (Iowa) Agricultural society will offer a premium of $100 for the best exhibit of butter from that county at the exposition.

Statuary in butter will form an interesting feature of the exhibit planned by the Missouri Dairymen's association for Missouri's dairy exhibit. The American Refrigerator Transit company will furnish a car with sides of glass in which the dairy products of the state will be placed. A portion of the space in this car will be allotted for a studio, in which will be modeled life sized figures of noted persons and objects of interest in full view of visitors.

Personnel of Washington Commission.

Regarding the personnel of the Washington Exposition commission appointed last week by Governor Rogers the Spokane Review says that George B. Stetson is a prominent lumber miller of Seattle; Victor F. Kelley is prominently identified with the salmon industry; Charles H. Clark of Spencer is a large fruit grower; Prof. W. J. Spillman is connected with State Agriculture college at Pullman; Lovett M. Wood is editor of the Trade Register, Seattle; Mr. Baker of Tacoma is state commissioner of horticulture, and C. H. Thompson of Spokane is interested in mining. It is expected that other names will be added to the list. G. W. Thompson of Tacoma, vice president for Washington, is the head of the commission and the Review says the commission has gone to work with a vim to secure a collection of exhibits in every line of industry.

OHIO AND KENTUCKY LINING UP.

Governors Bushnell and Bradley Write Concerning the Situation.

Governor Bushnell of Ohio writes the Department of Publicity and Promotion of the exposition that he is doing all he can to further the interests of the exposition in Ohio. There is now pending in the legislature a resolution providing for the participation of the Buckeye state with those of the western country in the great fair. As soon as the action on this matter has been taken, which will not long be postponed, Governor Bushnell will name a state commission and the work will be promptly pushed. Public interest in the exposition has been greatly stimulated recently and there is good prospect of extensive represented from Ohio.

Governor Bradley of Kentucky says in a letter to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that there is good reason for thinking that the legislature of his state will adopt, at his suggestion, a bill which appropriates $10,000 for making an exhibit at Omaha. The commercial interests of the state have taken a deep interest in the matter since it was properly brought to their attention and want to make a showing that will attract for Kentucky some attention among the western as well as the southern states of the nation. Recently the Louisville Chamber of Commerce adopted an address to the dealers of the state, setting out the benefits that would grow from the state's being properly represented at the exposition. Much pressure is being brought on the legislature through the business men of the state in behalf of the appropriation.

GOVERNMENT BOARD OF CONTROL.

Meeting to Be Held in Washington During the Coming Week.

Captain Ward, U. S. A., who has charge of the War department's exhibit on behalf of the government, has returned to Washington to take part in a conference of the Board of Control, which will be held at Washington during the week. This meeting will very likely result in the immediate shipment to Omaha of a large part of the government's exhibit. It was at first intended to send the articles direct from Nashville to Omaha. Investigation, however, at the close of the Nashville show proved that much of the exhibit made there was not what was wanted for Omaha. The scope of the Transmississippi Exposition is greater than the Board of Control had at first anticipated and the change in plans growing out of the increase in the size of the building and the rearrangement of the apportionment made necessary a revision of plans for the exhibit. The Board of Control now expects to make a much more extensive and comprehensive exhibit of the government's functions than was shown at Nashville. Some days ago Supervising Engineer Farnan received word from Washington requesting him to push the work of construction, as the board wanted to begin to ship exhibits to this city without delay. Farnan replied that shipments could begin at once, for by the time any freight could arrive the building would be in condition to afford excellent storage. Since then great progress has been made on the building and it is now in condition to provide storage for the entire exhibit, and within a little while the erection of exhibits in place will be possible.

Promotion in Canada.

British Vice Consul M. A. Hall left yesterday for Montreal to consult with the Dominion government on exposition matters. Canada has looked up the matter, the commissioner of agriculture for the Dominion having had considerable correspondence with the Department of Publicity in regard to an exhibit. It is Mr. Hall's mission to bring this matter to a head. He will close all arrangements with the Canadian authorities and Our Lady of the Snows will show her charms to the multitude at the exposition next summer.

Indian Bureau Anticipates Congress.

Senator Allen has sent to Manager Rosewater a letter from the commissioner of Indian affairs, asking for a conference with officers of the exposition in regard to the Indian congress. It appears the Indian bureau anticipates the passage by congress of the appropriation providing funds for the congress and desires to have the preliminaries arranged with as little delay as possible. No arrangements have yet been made for the conference, but it will be attended to without delay.

UNION PACIFIC SUBSCRIBES

GIVES $25,000 TO THE EXPOSITION

President Burt Notifies the Managers of His Intention to Aid the Big Show on Behalf of His Road.

The exposition stock subscription list has been increased by the addition of $25,000 which was subscribed by the Union Pacific Railway company. This subscription has been announced by President Burt and brings the total amount subscribed by the railroads entering Omaha to $115,000, the Burlington having contributed $30,000, the Northwestern system $30,000, the Rock Island $20,000 and the Milwaukee road $10,000.

Numerous conferences have been held with President Burt by a committee headed by Manager Lindsay of the Ways and Means department and Manager Rosewater of the Publicity and Promotion department. A great amount of argument was required to convince the new president of the Union Pacific that his road should subscribe a liberal amount. He admitted from the first that something should be done, but was not disposed to make the amount as large as some of the committee thought should be given. He finally reached the sum of $25,000 and this was deemed acceptable by the committee.

The only roads now remaining in the background in the matter of contributing to the exposition treasury are the Missouri Pacific "when the revenue of the road will warrant it," but that point seems not to have been reached. Some intimation has been expected from him for a long time, but nothing has been heard that would indicate that the prospect is any brighter now than when the exposition movement was first started and this pledge was given. The road is expected to subscribe at least $10,000. Whether this Wabash road will contribute anything to the exposition is still an open question. When the estimate was first made of the amount each road should be asked to subscribe, the Wabash was scheduled for $5,000, but since that time the deal with the Kansas City, Pittsburg & Gulf road has complicated matters somewhat in this connection and some readjustment will probably be made.

IOWA'S PARTICIPATION IS CERTAIN.

Legislature Ready to Make the Necessary Appropriation.

Special Agent C. E. Llewellyn of the Department of Publicity and Promotion, has just returned from Des Moines, where he went at the direction of Manager Rosewater to survey the ground and report on the probability of an appropriation for state participation in the exposition. Mr. Llewellyn states that he is convinced that the Iowa legislature will appropriate at least $25,000 in addition to the $10,000 appropriated by the preceding legislature.

"There is no particular opposition to an appropriation for the Iowa Exposition commission," said Mr. Llewellyn, "but nearly all of the people admit the something should be done. The state indebtedness is about $600,000, while the constitutional limit is $250,000. All appropriations for state institutions are being reduced to the lowest limit and the sentiment is in favor of treating the exposition appropriation in the same way. The state commission has asked for $47,400 and the commission says if it cannot get that much it doesn't want any. This rather arbitrary position has caused some little friction, but the matter will probably be adjusted without trouble. I was satisfied when I left Des Moines that the house committee would recommend an appropriation of $30,000 and I see that was done yesterday. I am just as well satisfied that the senate committee will reduce this amount to $25,000, and I believe that is what will be appropriated. I talked with a number of members of the legislature and told them that if anything was to be done it should be done at once, as the space which has been held in reserve for Iowa is in great demand, and they must not expect the exposition to keep it for them and then be left holding the sack. The state commission has been pounding the legislature to take some action in the matter and I believe there will be no further delay."

The delay on the part of Iowa has caused the Department of Exhibits great uneasiness for some time. When the Iowa commissioners were in Omaha soon after their appointment they picked out one of the choicest building sites on the bluff tract and the choicest locations in the main buildings, requesting that these be reserved for Iowa. Merely as a matter of accommodation this was done and no further steps have been taken by the Iowa commission to clinch the reservation. Other states have been clamoring for the site selected for Iowa's building and have insisted that they were ready to take the site and pay for it. Missouri and Arkansas each demanded that they be given this site because Iowa had given no sign that it would erect a building or make an exhibit and they were very wroth when they were refused. Relying upon the partial promise of the Iowa commissioners the spaces in the buildings and on the grounds have been held, but a formal notice was recently sent to the Iowa commissioners that this sort of thing could not be continued indefinitely and decisive action must be taken at once or the spaces would be assigned to other parties.

DION GERALDINE STILL CIRCULATES.

Represents Himself as Executive Officer of the Exposition.

Dion Geraldine, who "resigned" last fall his position as superintendent of the work of construction on the exposition buildings, had been in Kansas City recently. His mission there was to purchase a second-hand "shoot the chutes" outfit, which will be installed somewhere on the grounds during the exposition period. In conversing with reporters at Kansas City Mr. Geraldine admitted that "the Omaha exposition from an architectural standpoint will be one of the greatest exhibits ever given in the United States." According to the paper from which this is taken, "Mr. Geraldine was the superintendent of the World's fair at Chicago and is the executive officer of the Omaha exposition."

The "shoot the chutes" outfit purchased by Mr. Geraldine has hitherto been used at Troost park, Kansas City. It was shipped to Omaha Monday night.

Musical Artist's Offer Services.

The musical director of the exposition is the recipient of many calls from representatives of great musicians who desire to enter into engagements for their principals to appear at the exposition. Prominent among these is A. Liberati, cornet soloist, who desires to make an engagement for himself and his entire band of fifty skilled musicians. The representative of Sousa, the bandmaster who appeals to the common people, is also here endeavoring to close a contract for the organization which is swayed by Sousa's magic baton. Ysaye, the great violinist, and Gerardi, the 'cellist, who are touring together, have a representative on the ground, and the numerous singers of renown have representatives on the ground endeavoring to make arrangements for the appearance of their principals. No engagements have yet been made with any of these people, but definite plans will probably be perfected in the near future.

Exposition's Eastern Interests.

Manager Z. T. Lindsey of the Ways and Means Department and Manager E. Rosewater of the Department of Publicity and Promotion, have started for New York and other eastern points on exposition business. They will stop in Chicago to call upon a number of officers of corporate interests which are interested in Omaha, but which have not yet manifested the extent of their interest by subscription to exposition stock. The same errand will occupy them in New York, and from there they will go to Philadelphia to make final arrangements for the exposition medals and endeavor to expedite their issue as much as possible. Washington will probably be visited before their return.

MINNESOTA COMMISSION AT WORK.

Organizes and Proceeds to Raise Funds to Make Needed Showing.

The Minnesota Exposition commission is new organized and ready for business. The members met at the office of Governor Clough in Minneapolis last week and discussed the situation thoroughly. The governor urged the members to take prompt steps to have the state represented, notwithstanding the failure of the legislature to make an appropriation. It was suggested that subscribers might be reimbursed by the legislature, as was done in the case of the World's fair exhibit. The consensus of opinion was that at least $25,000 would be required for an exhibit and at least $5,000 for a building, if the commission decided to erect a state building. The latter point was left undecided, although plans were submitted by MacLeod & Lamoreaux of Minneapolis for a building to be constructed entirely of logs.

The commission was organized by the election of the following officers and committees:

President, John L. Gibbs, Geneva; vice president, R. A. Kirk, St. Paul; secretary, E. L. Danforth, Minneapolis; treasurer, W. D. Kirk, St. Paul.

Executive committee, the above officers and C. H. Graves, Duluth; A. T. Stebbins, Rochester; E. J. Phelps, Minneapolis.

Press committee, J. M. Anderson, Minneapolis; Conde Hamlin, St. Paul; Elmer Adams, Fergus Falls; Hudson Wilson, Faribault; A. D. Thompson, Duluth.

The following gentlemen were appointed to look after the arrangements and selection of the principal exhibits that will comprise the state's exhibits: Manufactures, E. L. Danforth, Minneapolis; grain and milling, E. J. Phelps, Minneapolis; dairy and stock, John L. Gibbs, Geneva; agriculture, E. W. Randall, St. Anthony Park; lumber and building, J. Newton Nind, Minneapolis; mines and mining interests, J. L. Greatsinger, Duluth.

The second meeting of the commission will be held Thursday of this week, when a plan for raising funds will be adopted. The plan that met with the greatest favor at the first meeting was for the counties to contribute according to some agreed basis, the amount to be returned by the legislature at its next session.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE BUSINESS.

Dr. Day Named to Superintend the Mining Exhibit.

Manager Bruce of the Exhibits department reported to the executive committee yesterday afternoon that he had reached an understanding with Dr. David T. Day regarding the position of superintendent of the Mining building and exhibits, and he recommended that Dr. Day be appointed to that position. The appointment was approved at once and Dr. Day will enter immediately upon his duties. He will make a careful survey of the situation and will devote the balance of this week to formulating a plan of operations. With the exception of a few days, he will devote all of his time until the month of July in carrying out such plans for the mining exhibits as may be decided on.

The executive committee decided that the building which is to be constructed as an overflow for the Manufactures building shall be called the International building. It will be occupied by the foreign exhibitors.

Manager Kirkendall was authorized to grant the Illinois commission additional space for the Art annex which will be erected near the Illinois building. In this building will be exhibited a number of valuable works of art, among them four large paintings of the World's fair which have seen on exhibition in Chicago for some time.

Manager Kirkendall was also authorized to grant space to a number of citizens of Canton, O., who desire to erect on the grounds a fac simile of the McKinley cottage in Canton, which was the Mecca of so many citizens of the United States during the last presidential campaign. The house will be filled with a large number of exhibits of campaign mementoes.

President Wattles was authorized to arrange plans for the celebration in connection with the opening of the exposition.

NORTH DAKOTA'S TWO BEAUTIES.

Land of Wheat Contributes to the Composite Photograph.

North Dakota's contributions to the composite picture which is to show the condensed essence of the beauty of the women of the transmississippi region, has been received by Manager Lindsey. The two women chosen by Vice President Lounsberry of Fargo are Mrs. Fred B. Fancher of Bismarck and Mrs. E. M. Darrow of Fargo. Their photographs meet the requirements of the competition and have been forwarded by Manager Lindsey to New oYrk​, where Photographer Rockwood, the inventor of the composite photograph, will include them in the picture which is to form the model for the woman's head which will appear on one side of the exposition medal.

In addition to these pictures, Vice President Lounsberry sent to Manager Lindsey the photographs of the women not chosen who had consented to having their pictures appear in Munseys Magazine as types of western beauty. The Department of Publicity and Promotion has already received a large number of pictures which had been thrown out by the several vice presidents, and these will all be turned over to the publishers of Munsey's Magazine for publication. The conditions surrounding this contest was so short, that comparatively few eligible women could comply with them. The pictures were required to show a full profile of head and shoulders, showing the left side of the face, and evening dress was absolutely necessary. As a photograph complying with these specifications is a decided rarity, and as expert photographers do not exist on every corner in most western towns, it was a very difficult matter to secure photographs coming within the requirements. A large number were sent to the vice presidents, however, with the idea, perhaps, that they "might do," and as a result the vice presiednts​ have in their possession a large number of photographs of very handsome women. Acting under the request of the Publicity department the vice presidents have endeavored to secure the consent of the subjects of these pictures to have them appear in Munsey's and the department is receiving a number of them.

The contribution of North Dakota consists of thirteen pictures, all of them being portraits of women of exceptional beauty, but they do not comply entirely with the provisions of the management and could not be used in making a composite picture.

Exposition Chorus Rehearsal.

The third rehearsal of the Exposition chorus was held at Hayden's music hall last night. The membership was still further increased by the addition of a number of well known singers and Choral Director Kelly announced that he would accept no more soprano voices, as there were as many sopranos enrolled as were necessary.

He said a few more members would be accepted in the other branches and the lists would then be closed.

The meetings of the chorus will hereafter be held on Tuesday nights in the large room at the southwest corner of the top floor of the city hall. The use of this room was granted the chorus last night by the Board of Education and the rehearsals will be held there Tuesday night of each week until further notice.

The entire evening was spend in drilling the various parts on the beautiful Easter hymn from "Cavalleria Rusticana." There were about 150 voices in the chorus. Good progress was made on this rather difficult selection, and the result was encouraging to the conductor.

Cards were issued to all members of the chorus whose voices had been tested and they were instructed to pay their fee of $5 to Secretary Wakefield at Exposition headquarters.

South Dakota Still at Work.

The South Dakota Exposition commission is now making a canvass of the several counties in the state, asking each county to contribute to the state fund 20 cents for each vote cast at the last general election. They estimate that about $16,000 will be raised if this plan is carried out. The plan of the commission provides that this sum shall be used for making a display of the resources of the counties east of the Missouri, the Black Hills counties having already made provision for an exhibit of their own. It is also the intention of the commission to have a local organization in each county seat and raise a fund of $100 in each place to be offered to the farmers for the best collections of grain and other products, in order to collect a fine lot of material for exhibits.

Model Forestry Plantation.

B. E. Fernow, chief of the division of forestry of the Agricultural department, has applied to the Department of Exhibits for a space 138x172 feet in the irrigation field in which his division will maintain a model forestry plantation.

Illuminating Government Building.

The government building on the exposition grounds will present a beautiful scene at night. The plan of Consulting Engineer Luther M. Stieringer to outline the structure with electric lights and to bring out its prominent features in the same manner has been adopted. About 1,000 electric lights will be used in this plan of ornamentation. The effect is expected to be one of the most striking to be witnessed on the grounds.

Following the adoption of this plan, J. J. Farnan, the engineer of the building, is inviting bods from local electrical companies for the work. The bids will be opened and the contract awarded as speedily as possible. The contract will be one of considerable size.

Prof. Knapp's Visit.

Prof. Warren E. Knapp, superintendent of public schools of Arapahoe county, Colorado, is in the city from Denver. He is returning from the recent educational meeting at Chattanooga Tenn., and has stopped off in Omaha to confer with the local school authorities regarding the assemblage of school teachers in the transmississippi country here during the exposition.

Cold Storage Exhibit.

The Ideal Refrigerating and Machine company of Chicago has applied for space in the Horticulture building in which to erect a room equipped with their refrigerating apparatus, where they propose to store fruits which are to be used for exhibit purposes in the building.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Cosmopolitan Publishing company has notified the Department of Publicity that an article relating to the exposition, which has been contributed by General C. F. Manderson, will appear at an early date in the Cosmopolitan Magazine.

J. B. Sawhill, a well known civil engineer of Omaha, has been engaged by the exposition management to make an official map of the grounds. He has commenced this work and will devote his entire time to making the map, which has been in great demand, but which could not be turned out by the regular force, on account of the great press of work.

The Missouri Pacific Railway company will erect a building on the north tract near the Transportation and Agricultureal​ Implement building, in which it will display the resources of the sections of country through which its lines pass. The building will be a most attractive structure and will cost about $5,000. General Agent Phillippi is looking after the matter, and he promises a fine exhibit of the productive regions traversed by the Missouri Pacific.

CAMPBELL GETS THE PLACE

CHOSEN SUCCESSOR TO DR. DEARING

Populists Too Many for the Democrats When the Time Comes to Vote on the Place So Many Wanted.

The election of an assistant secretary of the Nebraska Exposition commission to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of W. H. Dearing after his appointment as assistant physician at the Hospital for the Insane at Norfolk, developed one of the neatest little skirmishes on the outskirts of the approaching state campaign that has been seen in these parts for some time. J. N. Campbell of Fullerton, a populist, was elected to succeed Dearing, and there is a great deal of dissatisfaction in the ranks of the popocrats over the outcome of the scrimmage. The most active candidates for the position to be filled were J. N. Campbell, J. G. P. Hildebrand of Lancaster county and B. S. Littlefield of Otoe county. Campbell and Littlefield are populists and Hildebrand is a democrat. The latter's application was endorsed by the entire democratic machine of the state, including the officers of the state committee, Nebraska members of the national committee, and numerous other prominent in the councils of the party in this state.

As soon as it became known that W. H. Dearing had been appointed assistant secretary of the Norfolk Asylum for the Insane applications began to pour into the office of the commission, and there were at least a dozen candidates of different degrees of efficiency. Certain of the members of the commission, however, saw the opportunity to kill several birds with one stone and a nice little job was fixed up which worked like a charm.

The parties to this scheme were Judge Neville, chariman​ of the commission, Commissioner Poynter and Secretary of State Porter.

Julge​ Neville has been conceded to be a candidate for the gubernatorial nomination at the hands of the populists. His friends argue that he is entitled to it because he was elected a contingent judge of the supreme court but was not allowed to take his seat because the constitutional amendment increasing the number of members of the court was not adopted.

AND POYNTER, TOO.

Commissioner Poynter is anxious to secure the nomination for congress from the Third district to succeed Judge Maxwell, the word having been passed around among the populists that Maxwell is not to be nominated. One stumbling block in Poynter's way was said to be in the fact that J. N. Campbell, a member of the upper house of the last legislature, is also an active candidate for congressional honors. In addition to his congressional aspirations Campbell is credited with having considerable of a pull in his own district and in other sections of the state as well, and to be a rather formidable antagonist.

Secretary Poynter is known to be anxious to sacrifice his private interests in order to serve his country another term, and these three formed a combination to secure Campbell's influence and get him out of Poynter's way by making him assistant secretary.

Governor Holcomb also took a hand in the matter, but there appears to be considerable uncertainty as to just what the governor wanted in this connection. Judge Neville said the governor had asked that the commission do nothing in the matter of electing a successor to Dearing until he could consult with the members of the commission. The governor was in the city last night, but did not appear about the Millard hotel, where the meeting of the commission was held, and he authorized a denial of the statement that he had asked the commission to delay action. Secretary Porter was said to be armed with a letter from the governor, however, to the effect that he endorsed Campbell and he showed this letter to members of the commission after the meeting had adjourned.

BROUGHT OUT A CROWD.

The fact that a successor to Dearing would be selected at this meeting of the commission and that the "committee on pie," appointed at the last meeting to distribute the offices among the members of the commission, would report, accounted for the presence in the lobby last night of a number of popocrats who have been hoping some crumbs of comfort in the shape of jobs would fall to their share. Some of the lucky ones who have been holding office since the last election were also there to assist the commissioners in finding men to fill the available positions. Among the latter were Frank Hibbard, state oil inspector; W. C. Bullard, Omaha police commissioner; J. H. Dawes, superintendent of the Institute for the Deaf, and D. Clem Deaver, steward at the same institution.

The commission remained in session until 10 o'clock, considering various matters of business, and adjourned without [?] the desires of the anxious on[?]

After adjournment the members of the commission remained about the office until midnight, each member being buttonholed by a supporter of one of the candidates or by the candidates themselves. Campbell, Littlefield and Hildebrand were there and Secretary of State Porter took an active interest in the vigorous "log rolling" which was in progress.

BALLOTING BEGINS PROMPTLY.

The commission convened again at 9 o'clock this morning and about the first matter taken up was the acceptance of Dearing's resignation and the election of his successor. An informal written ballot was first taken, resulting like this: F. E. Diefendorf of Butler county, 1; J. N. Campbell, 2; B. S. Littlefield, 1; J. G. P. Hildebrand, 2. Diefendorf was Caspers man and hiswas​ the one vote cast for him. Neville and Poynter voted for Campbell, Dutton voted for Littlefield and Boydston and Whitford voted for Hildebrand. The second ballot resulted: Diefendorf, 1; Campbell, 3; Littlefield, 1; Hildebrand, 1. A third ballot was ordered and this gave Campbell a majority, the vote being like this: Campbell, 4; Littlefield, 2. Whitford and Boydston voted for Littlefield and the other members voted for Campbell.

This removed a large element of interest from the proceedings of the commission and when the "pie committee" announced that it had not come to any conclusion on the allotment of the spoils and would not make any reports until the next meeting the lobby quickly vanished and the members were left alone in their glory.

In addition to the interest created in the proceedings of the commission by the knowledge that there would be a more or less generous distribution of spoils and chances for jobs the meeting of the board was made more interesting by the fact that all superintendents of departments were ordered to submit reports showing the expense of their departments, both up to date and in prospect. In accordance with these instructions the superintendents were at the meeting in force and their reports were sandwiched in between the other proceedings of the commission.

SOME OF THE ROUTINE WORK.

Superintendent E. D. Johnson of the Agricultural department reported that $8,247.69 would cover the entire cost of his department. He made a number of recommendations to the board which were adopted. These provide that all counties wishing space in the Nebraska agricultural exhibit must file applications with Superintendent Johnson on or before April 1, and must commence work installing their exhibits on or before May 1. Assistant Superintendent C. E. Drake was ordered to commence work in this department April 1, and Secretary Johnson was directed to commence preparing at once for the exhibit.

Superintendent W. R. Jackson of the Educational department showed that there had been expended for his department to date. $5,809.40 and the estimate of the amount still required to make the exhibit and care for it

STOCK BREEDERS' REQUEST.

C. H. Elmendorf, Thurlington; W. G. Whitmore, Valley; C. H. Searl, Edgar, and W. H. Chappel, Normal, constituted a committee representing the Nebraska Improved Live Stock Breeders' association and the Nebraska Swine Breeders' association. They asked sufficient money to exhibit improved stock at the exposition in competition with the fancy stock from other states. Mr. Elmendorf as spokesman urged the large extent of the fine stock industry in this state as good and sufficient reason why the commission should assist the breeders. The matter was, however, laid over.

Superintendent Dawes of the Institute for the Deaf asked for an allowance of $100 for buying material for making show cases in which to place the exhibit of the institution, the cases to be made by the boys in the manual training department. This was allowed.

Miss Mellona Butterfield, superintendent of the Art department, made a verbal repart​ regarding the decoration of the Nebraska building, including the tinting of the walls, carpeting the floors of the rooms, etc., her estimate of the probable expense being $3,900. As the committee to determine the uses to which the rooms are to be devoted had not reported, Miss Butterfield said she could not make an exact report and the matter was laid over until after this committee shall have reported.

At this point the board decided to go into executive session and the room was cleared of everybody except members of the commission.

In executive session the report of the superintendent of live stock was received and filed for future reference. It was decided to lay off all the carpenters, including the superintendent of construction, and Mr. Whitford was appointed a committee of one to supervise the completion of the Nebraska building. In view of the fact that a carpenter will be needed for the construction of wall space in the building, repairs, etc., the commission decided to unite this position with that of timekeeper at the timekeeper's salary. Bookkeeper Althen's salary was raised from $65 to $75.

ABOUT READY FOR STAFF WORKERS

Good Progress Being Made on the Horticulture Building.

Alexander & Son, the staff contractors for the Horticulture building, have constructed a shop inside of the building and have a staff of men at work making the models and patterns for the staff for this building. This building is well advanced and the woodwork is practically completed to the cornice line, a large force of carpenters being engaged on the dome, which will be finished within a very short time. The staff work will be pushed and the contractors expect to complete the entire building within thirty days.

The same firm also has the staff contract for the two big restaurant buildings which will flank the east end of the main viaduct. The have made preparations to commence at once the erection of a temporary shop under the viaduct and will commence turning out the staff for these buildings. The carpenter contract on the restaurants has his piles on the grounds and will commence work at once. The staff men will follow the carpenters closely and the buildings will be completed in a very short time.

A large force of workmen is engaged on the construction of the huge grotto in the northwest corner of the Government building, in which will be displayed the elaborate exhibit to be made by the fish commission. The grotto will be finished in imitation of a tunnel through great rocks and will be lighted by incandescent lamps. The entrance will be very elaborate, being of staff imitating intricate figures carved out of the rocks.

Engineer Farnan says that arrangements have been made to construct a tramway from the north door of the Government building to the railway tracks on the north side of the grounds.

Good Word from Georgia.

ATLANTA, Ga., March 9.—At a meeting of the Omaha exposition commission and the citizens of Atlanta in the Chamber of Commerce it was decided to have an exhibit at the Omaha exposition consisting of a display of the resources of Georgia. Ex-Governor Northen was instructed to telegraph to the president of the Omaha exposition to reserve space for the Georgia building.

TWO CONCESSIONS ARE AWARDED.

Reinhart Gets the Photograph and Graham the Gondola.

The executive committee passed upon a matter at its meeting yesterday afternoon which will interest the hundreds of amateur photographers in Omaha and vicinity who have been visiting the exposition grounds and taking pictures of everything in sight. The committee authorized Manager Reed to make a contract with F. A. Reinhart, an Omaha photographer, for the exclusive privilege of taking pictures on the exposition grounds with anything but a kodak. This will be sad news to the many amateurs who have been amusing themselves and entertaining their friends with views of the grounds showing the progress made on the buildings and taking snap shots at interesting groups and incidents. All this will be prevented in the future and nothing will be allowed but kodaks. For this exclusive privilege Mr. Reinhart will pay to the exposition $1,000 and 20 per cent of the gross receipts.

The gondola concession was awarded to U. G. Graham for 20 per cent of the gross receipts. Graham is associated with W. S. Jardine.

Manager Kirkendall reported that he had been offered reels for hose to be used inside the buildings in connection with the stand-pipes if he would pay the transportation expense from Independence, Mo. The offer was accepted.

Manager Rosewater was authorized to purchase 5,000 frames for the bird's-eye views of the grounds. He was also authorized to make a contract for 200,000 copies of The Weekly Bee of the first week in May for $3,200, the paper ton contain a four-page supplement of exposition matter and a full-page bird's-eye view of the grounds this price to include mailing and postage.

Manager Bruce was authorized to act as chairman of the executive committee and manager of the Ways and Means department during the absence of Manager Lindsey in the east.

EXHIBITS IN LINE OF ELECTRICITY.

Prof. Owens Reports on the Work of His Department.

Prof. R. B. Owens, superintendent of the Machinery and Electricity building and commissioner in charge of electrical exhibits, has notified the Department of Exhibits that the General Electric company wants 500 feet of space in addition to the 1,000 feet already reserved for this company and also offers to make an educational exhibit if allowed 300 feet of space in addition. Prof. Owens writes that he has assigned Elihu Thompson 200 feet, Charles F. Brush 300 feet and Charles P. Stemmetz 200 feet, all for electrical exhibits of a high order of interest. The American Vehicle company wishes space in the building for an exhibit of batteries, and B. J. Arnold, a consulting electrical engineer, wishes to exhibit drawings, etc. Prof. Owens also names a number of prominent electrical firms which wish to exhibit electrical devices of various kinds, including electrical vehicles of several designs. He also says that S. F. B. Morse, grandson of the inventor of the telegraph, has consented to exhibit the manuscript, apparatus, etc., belonging to his celebrated grandfather.

The professor announces that the Western Society of Engineers will meet in Omaha in September, also the Association of Edison companies.

Wants to Revive the Press Club

Major Clarkson, assistant to the president, is strongly in favor of reviving the Omaha Press club and establishing a press headquarters where representatives of the newspapers of the country may feel at home and meet their colleagues. He declares that something of this kind is an absolute necessity in view of the large number of newspaper representatives who will be in Omaha during the exposition and he is contemplating steps to bring about the desired result.

Notes of the Exposition.

The business men of the Twin Cities—Minneapolis and St. Paul—are showing great interest in exposition affairs.

The Georgia Exposition commission has filed a formal application for 3,000 square feet of ground space on which to erect a state building.

T. Mizutany of Chicago, representing the Japanese Central Tea association, is in the city negotiating with the exposition authorities for a concession for a Japanese tea garden and a Japanese exhibit.

A generous attendance of Minnesota visitors is now assured. The press and people of the state are rapidly awakening to the importance and magnitude of the approaching great exposition.

The proposed Minnesota building will show a structure with peaks and gables, wide verandas, built of logs, lumber, cut and rough stone, rubble work of stone and iron ore, brick and other products of the state.

The Estey Organ company applied by telegraph for 1,630 square feet of space for an exhibit of pianos and orgains​. The application was accepted in the same expeditious manner eand​ a fine exhibit is in prospect by this firm.

Hon. John L. Gibbs, president of the Minnesota commission, is one of the good old war horses of the state, in whose hands work and imposed duties never lag. The secretary of the commission, E. L. Danforth, is an active and capable young man, who will make a record in the field before him.

The secretary of the Minnesota commission reports many applications and inquiries for space and concessions. As the North Star state is a community and rich in natural resources and peopled by an enterprising populace, much may be expected from that section.

The prospect for a New York state building seems to be very encouraging. There is a balance of about $5,000 in the appropriation made by the legislature for state participation in the Nashville exposition, and Special Commissioner Wheeler is commencing operations to make this money available for the erection of a building.

The Self-Lifting Elevator company of Lima, O., has applied for space for installing one of its machines. Superintendent Hardt is considering the advisability of having two or three of these machines installed in each of the main buildings for the use of people who do not wish to walk up and down the steps leading to the gallaries​.

"Pigs-in-Clover" has been revived in behalf of the exposition. In its new form the game has sixteen different colored balls. The object is to separate the balls, getting eight of two colors on each side of the lagoon across the central bridge, and then putting four of each color in the proper compartments in the corners. It is neatly gotten up and will serve to distract the attention of any one who tackles it.

TIME LIMIT TO ENTER EXHIBITS

SPACE IN BUILDINGS ABOUT ALL TAKEN

Indications Favorable for the Exposition Being Opened Promptly on Time—Superintendents in Charge of Buildings.

"May 25 the gates of the exposition will be closed against the reception of exhibits and any exhibitor not having his material on the grounds at that time will be shut out. The time between that date and June 1 will be utilized in making ready for the opening of the gates and the Transmississippi and International Exposition will be opened on time and every exhibit will be in readiness for the inspection of visitors." Thus spoke H. B. Hardt, superintendent of the Exhibits department of the exposition, and he showed a pile of printed notices to this effect which are being sent to all exhibitors as an incentive for them to govern themselves accordingly.

"It may work a hardship on some exhibitors to be compelled to comply with this rule," continued Mr. Hardt, "but it cannot be avoided if the exposition is to be opened on time."

"It has been announced that this exposition will be opened on June 1 and Manager Bruce has issued positive instructions that all exhibits must be in place at that time. Nothing will be left undone to bring about this result and it can be announced with certainty that   there will be no delay so far as the Exhibits department is concerned. There will probably be a few exhibitors who will be unavoidably delayed for some good reasons and these will be admitted to the grounds after June 10, but between May 25 and June 10 no exhibits will be received. There will be some exhibits which cannot be made ready as early as the opening day, especially in horticulture and agriculture, and these will be received after June 10, but at the time of the opening there will be no confusion, such as is seen at nearly all expositions, caused by exhibitors and their assistants rushing about getting their exhibits installed. There will be no packing cases scattered about in the aisles and no noise of preparation. Western push and enterprise will show to the world that it is possible to open a great exposition promptly on time with everything ready."

WILL START THEM EARLY.

May 1 the floor in each exhibit building will be marked to show the space assigned to each exhibitor, and on that date every exhibitor will be required to commence getting his exhibitor in shape. Each building will be placed in charge of the superintendent of the department in which the building belongs and this superintendent will be required to see that the rules of the department are complied with. The office of Manager Bruce will be removed to the grounds on that date and will be established in the Manufactures building, and all operations of installation will be directed from that point.

The Manufactures building will be under the direction of Superintendent Hardt, who will look after the installation of exhibits will look after the installation of exhibits in that building. Superintendent F. W. Taylor will be in charge of the Agriculture and Horticulture buildings, Secretary Ford of the Woman's Board of Managers will have charge of the Liberal Arts building, Dr. David T. Day, the mining commissioner, will be in charge of the Mines building; Art Director A. H. Griffiths will have charge of the Art building. Prof. R. B. Owens will be in charge of the Electricity and Machinery building, Superintendent D. H. Elliott will take charge of the installation of exhibits in the Transportation and Agricultural Implement building. J. B. Dinsmore will have charge of the Dairy building and E. Whitcomb will be in charge of the Apiary building. All will be under the general direction of Manager Bruce, who will take up his headquarters on the ground and will devote nearly all of his time to this work.

SPACE IS ALL ALLOTTED.

The allotment of space in the several exhibit buildings is virtually completed. Every building is entirely filled and additional room can only be made by reducing the amount allotted to exhibitors already assigned. There are very few cases in which this can be done, as nearly all of the exhibitors make their preparations to fill a certain space and cannot change their designs without great expense and loss of time. For this reason the department is encouraging the erection of buildings by certain desirable classes of exhibitors and the indications are that there will be no spot of ground left unoccupied when the gates are opened.

INDIAN BILL IN THE HOUSE

MOVE TO NONCONCUR IS AGREED TO

Bill Now Goes to a Conference Committee, Where Friends of the Indian Congress Hope to Win Out.

WASHINGTON, March 9.—(Special Telegram.)—When the house convened this morning great interest was manifested among the members as to the fate of the free homes amendment, which would in all probability be reported by Chairman Sherman of the committee on Indian affairs. Shortly after convening, Sherman reported the bill to the house with information upon senate amendment and moved nonconcurrence. This was agreed to with the exception of four paragraphs of the free homes amendment, gilsonite lands in Utah and two minor amendments upon which direct votes were desired. Among the amendments nonconcurred in was that in the Indian congress paragraph carrying $45,000 for an exhibit at Omaha. This action was most desired by the Nebraska delegation, although for a time it looked as if the senate amendments might be voted upon seriatim. The rest of the day was consumed in the discussion of the free homese​ and Uncompahgre reservation affairs. A vote, in all probability, will be reached tomorrow.

The Indian congress feature of the Indian bill is now in good shape and will be taken care of by the conferees when the bill is sent to conference.

CAMERA FIENDS IN DOUBT

COMPETITION OF PROFESSIONALS IS ENDED

Letting of the Photographic Concession to Reinhart Clears Up the Mystery Considerably but Leaves Amateurs Uncertain.

The awarding of the contract for the exclusive privilege of taking photographs of the exposition grounds and buildings to F. A. Reinhart of this city has settled one phase of the photograph question, but that portion of the matter which is of peculiar interest to the amateur "fiends" is still undetermined. So far as the amateurs are concerned, they will be allowed to use hand cameras 4x5 inches, or less, on the grounds on conditions to be hereafter determined, but they will not be allowed to use a tripod under any circumstances.

It has been conceded from the beginning of active work on the exposition that the exclusive privilege of taking photographs of the grounds and buildings would be awarded to some professional photographer and the competition for this privilege has been animated. Fully a dozen photographers have been negotiating for the concession and a great deal of time has been devoted by the Concessions department to making such terms as would do away with many features which the experience of other expositions had proved to be objectionable. Manager Reed has given his personal attention to the matter and believes that arrangements have now been made which will be entirely satisfactory to all concerned.

Definite specifications were drawn for this privilege and every photographer desirous of making a bid for the concession was furnished with a copy of these. The contract with Official Photographer Reinhart will be drawn in accordance with these specifications.

The official photographer is given the exclusive right to make all kinds of photographs on the grounds except tin-types, which may be made on the Midway with the understanding that none of the Midway concessionaires are to be allowed to take photographs, and further excepting the privilege of allowing visitors to use hand cameras, with 4x5 films of plates or smaller sizes, the latter privilege to be under the control of the exposition management, with the understanding that tripods will not be allowed to be used with said hand cameras.

RIGHTS OF THE CONTRACTOR.

The official photographer is given the exclusive right to sell all kinds of photographs within the exposition grounds except those of people or of typical scenes of foreign countries. He is also given the exclusive right to make and sell photographic views, leaflets and booklets of the grounds, buildings and points of interest within the grounds. In this connection, the official photographer is required to publish and have for sale on the grounds, not later than July 1, the views, leaflets, booklets, etc., here referred to. He is also required to publish and keep on sale on the grounds, views of points of interest in and about the city of Omaha.

An exception to the rule excluding all photographic machines is made in the case of representative newspapers and periodicals which may desire to send representatives to the grounds for the purpose of taking photographs of scenes of the grounds, exhibits, etc., for reproduction in their respective publications, this feature of the work being placed under the control of the Department of Publicity and Promotion.

The official photographer is also given the exclusive right to take the photographs which will be required on the tickets of admission of officers, employes, exhibitors, concessionaires and their employes, as well as purchasers of season or commutation tickets, the price of each of these photographs to be 25 cents. It is provided, however, in this connection, that the officials and employes of the United States government and proprietors and reporters of newspapers shall be photographed free of cost.

AMATEUR STANDING NOT SETTLED.

The regulations regarding which the amateur photographers are most concerned have not yet been perfected, and until some definite plan is agreed on no cameras of any description, excepting those of the official photographer, will be allowed on the grounds. Ever since the gates have been closed to visitors not in possession of an admission ticket or a pass the Concessions department has been in control of the admission of cameras of every description. A few permits were issued to persons who applied for them, but since March 1 no permits have been issued to any person and the rule against the admission of cameras to the main court is being rigidly enforced. No more permits will be issued for this purpose.

Manager Reed is now considering the best means of regulating the use of hand cameras and until some definite course of action is agreed on they will not be admitted to the grounds. He is still undecided whether to offer for sale the exclusive privilege for hand cameras, allowing the concessionaire who secures this privilege to regulate the admission of these instruments, or whether it is more desirable to [?] fee for each instrument. The latter course was adopted at the World's fair and at Atlanta and Nashville. When the course to be pursued in connection with hand cameras is decided it will then be made known whether any of these instruments are to be admitted to the grounds before the gates are opened.

GERMAN VILLAGE PLANS DRAWN.

Beindorff & Whipple Nearly Complete Their Arrangements.

The plans for the German village on the Midway are progressing and building operations will be commenced in the very near future. This concession was let some time ago to C. F. Beindorff and J. C. Whipple, both of Omaha, and Mr. Beindorff has about completed the plans for the structures which will constitute the "village".

The German village will be located on the bluff tract near the grand plaza and will be quite an elaborate affair. The famous Heidelberg castle will be reproduced and one of the prominent features will be a restaurant after the fashion of the Bratwurst Glocklein resorts which are to be seen in many parts of Germany. In this place will be a restaurant, where the bratwurst so popular with Germans will be served, together with other delicatessen so dear to the heart of those who spent their early days in the Vaterland. There will be a Vienna cafe, a concert garden, a pavilion where there will be vaudeville performances and bazaars for the sale of articles imported from the old country. Carvers of wood, meerschaum and other wares will be imported for this village, including wood carvers from the Hartz mountains, Bohemian glass blowers, etc. There will be athletic games, bowling alleys and all the other methods so dear to the Germans. Negotiations are pending with a female band of Berlin, an organization of fifty-five pieces, for a series of concerts.

Waiting on the Legislature.

Secretary Chase of the Iowa Exposition commission writes to the Department of Exhibits that the commission cannot take any further action regarding closing up its application for space until the legislature takes definite action in the matter of an appropriation. This letter was in reply to one sent a few days ago by Manager Bruce calling the attention of the Iowa commission to the palpable fact that the space asked for by that body could not be held indefinitely in the fact of the demands of other parties for space.

Educational Executive Committee.

The executive committee of the Transmississippi Exposition convention met yesterday afternoon at Superintendent Pearse's office with all members except State Superintendent Jackson present. The different committees reported progress and outlined work in hand. It was agreed to send in without delay a formal application for special railroad rates. The question of badges, hotel accommodations, headquarters and advertising were considered. The committee on program reported the following additional names of parties who had agreed to take charge of section work: Rural schools, State Superintendent J. R. Kirk of Missouri; manual training, Gilbert B. Morrison of Kansas City; kindergarten, Mrs. O. S. Chittenden of Omaha. Advisory committee on program is not quite completed.

Finishing Nebraska's Building.

All the carpenters and other employes about the Nebraska building, except the workmen employed by the staff contractors, have been laid off in accordance with the terms of the resolution adopted by the Nebraska commission. The pay roll of these men was made out immediately after the board adjourned and arrangements were made to pay the men off at once. Commissioner Whitford, who was appointed to take full charge of the building, has arrived in the city and at once hired a small force of men to complete the small amount of work required to finish the building. The plasterers are "pointing up" their work and there is a small amount of odds and ends to be cleaned up before the building is entirely completed. E. W. Crane, who has been employed for some time as timekeeper on the building, has been retained as custodian and will have charge of the structure until it is occupied as headquarters.

Executive Committee Meeting.

The executive committee awarded the sausage sandwich concession at its meeting yesterday afternoon, Fred T. Cummins being the lucky bidder for this privilege.

R. C. Strehlow was awarded the contract for calsomining and painting the Mines building, the price being $825.

The following bids for constructing the park colonnades between the Mines and Liberal Arts building, and between the last named and the Art Building were laid before the committee by Manager Kirkendall: Carpentry—R. C. Strehlow, $3,300; William Goldie & Sons, $3,470; Thomas Herd, $3,970; Westlake Construction company, $4,122. Staff work—Smith & Eastman, $1,977; O. S. Sarsi & Co., $5,700. The work was awarded to Strehlow and Smith & Eastman.

Accommodations for Military.

A plan is now under consideration by President Wattles and Major Clarkson to furnish some kind of accommodations for the numerous bodies of troops of the militia of the several states which have signified their desire to come to Omaha during the exposition. Investigations are being made   to determine whether suitable ground for a military camp can be secured in some convenient location and estimates are being prepared of the probable expense of such a movement. No definite plans have been outlined as yet, but it is probable that some arrangements will be made to accommodate the visiting military in a suitable manner.

Secretary Campbell at Work.

J. N. Campbell, assistant secretary of the Nebraska Exposition commission, has taken charge of the office of the commission in the Millard hotel and is rapidly "learning the ropes" in connection with his new duties. Personally he is a most affable gentleman and has a wide acquaintance in the state, his service in the legislature and active participation in political campaigns having brought him in contact with people from all sections of Nebraska. He is a farmer and stock raiser by occupation and owns an extensive farm near Fullerton.

Store Room for County Exhibits.

The county commissioners have leased the the vacant store room at 1309 North Twenty-fourth street, where they will store a quantity of exhibits that will be shown at the exposition.

The old soldiers have asked the commissioners for a portion of the proceeds of the money realized from the sale of the exposition bounds. They state that they want to use the money in collecting for exhibition war relics and also for entertaining visiting members of outside Grand Army posts. No action has yet been taken upon the request.

Off for New Mexico.

Special Commissioner Llewellyn will leave at once for New Mexico and Arizona in the interest of the exposition to stir up the lagging interest in that section. The New Mexico cimmission​

PLANNNING FOR INDIAN CONGRESS.

Secretary Bliss and Commissioner Jones Are Hard at Work.

WASHINGTON, March 10.—(Special Telegram.)—In anticipation of the passage of the Indian bill containing an appropriation of $45,000 for the Indian congress at Omaha during the life of the exposition Secretary Bliss of the Interior department has requested Commissioner Jones to cast about for material to fitly represent the government and at the same time open correspondence with local officers as to what is needed at Omaha to make this congress, which will be the first in the history of the country, a credit to the government of the United States and an absolute reflection of what has been done for the Indian.

Commissioner Jones, appreciating that the credit of this congress is largely due to Mr. Rosewater, has requested his presence in Washington with a view of outlining his ideas in relation to the congress. Both the secretary of the interior and the commissioner of Indian affairs are proceeding upon the theory that the conference on the Indian bill will vote for the retention of the senate amendment, and this is confirmed today by both Senator Allen and Representative Mercer, who say that the conferees have practically made all arrangements to keep the amendment in the bill. Interest in the congress is growing and there are many predictions heard that is will be a distinctive and novel feature of the exposition. Secretary Bliss and Commissioner Jones will do all in their power to make the congress, in an ethnological sense, the crowning feature of this administration.

Senator Allen had called up and passed through the senate today the house bill to extend the time which the Rock Island railroad has to complete its line through Indian Territory.

STATE BUILDING IN SIGHT

BLUFF TRACT SITES ARE GOING FAST

Beautiful Buildings Erected by Commonwealths, Cities, Counties and Private Firms Will Line a Long Avenue.

One of the most important features of the exposition will be the buildings which will be erected by the states, counties or cities as headquarters for the people from the localities represented. These buildings will be located on the lower end of the large portion of the exposition grounds known as the bluff tract, a most sightly location overlooking the broad valley of the Missouri for miles up and down the river. The part of this tract set apart for buildings to be erected by outside parties is about half a mile in length and about 800 feet in width. It is laid out with numerous walks and will be beautifully parked, large trees affording an abundance of shade, and plans being already made for innumerable beds of all kinds of rare and beautiful flowers.

There are many very desirable locations on this tract for state and other buildings, but these are being rapidly reserved and this large tract will certainly be liberally dotted with handsome buildings in different designs, all harmonizing fully with the general plan and making this beautiful park one of the most desirable resorts on the entire grounds.

Eight states have taken positive steps in the erection of buildings designed to be used as headquarters for the people from those sections who visit the exposition, and several others are going through the preliminaries necessary to bring about this result. The states which will unquestionably have buildings are these: Nebraska, Illinois, Montana, Georgia, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri and Arkansas. Iowa will erect a building if the legislature makes an appropriation sufficient for the purpose, a most desirable location being held for this state despite the clamors of other states which want this site. Pottawattamie county, Iowa, will have a huge wigwam and Denver will have a handsome city building, the only city building on the grounds, so far as definitely decided. Philadelphia is still considering the idea of erecting a fac-simile of old Independence hall, and this may be done. The prospect seems to be good for the erection of state buildings by New York, Massachusetts, Florida and Canada.

In addition to these buildings there will be several erected by business houses for the display of their wares. Those which have taken definite action in the matter and commenced operations for the erection of their buildings are Montgomery Ward & Co. of Chicago, the Ohio Syrup company of Cleveland and Liggett & Meyers Tobacco company of St. Louis. A number of other firms are negotiating for space and the number of sites still available for building purposes is rapidly diminishing.

TURNSTILES FOR THE GROUNDS.

New System Adopted by the Exposition Bureau of Admissions.

A complete system of turnstiles is being put in some of the gates leading into the main court at the exposition grounds and a complete record will be made of every person who pays for admission to the grounds. These turnstiles will be put at one gate of Sherman avenue and at the Twenty-fourth street entrance. The Sherman avenue gate will be at the middle of the east side of the Auditorium building, where all of the visitors to the grounds usually alight. It will be a few yards north of the large gate where teams have been admitted. The latter gate will be used for all persons having passes to the grounds, and they will not be allowed to enter at the turnstile. Two gates will be constructed at the Twenty-fourth street entrance, one with a turnstile and the other without that adjunct. The latter will be used exclusively for persons with passes.

W. P. Byrne, for several years connected with the local play houses, has been placed in charge of the pay gates at the grounds under the direction of the Bureau of Admission. He advised the erection of the turnstiles in order that the employes connected with the Bureau of Admissions may acquire experience in the handling of actual business, both at the gates and in handling the accounts in the office. In this way he hopes to secure a force of expert gate keepers before the opening day comes and thus do away with a most prolific source of annoyance both to the public and to the exposition authorities.

MINNESOTA'S SPACE ARRANGEMENTS

Committee Coming to Close the Deal for the State's Exhibit.

A committee from the Minnesota exposition commission will arrive in Omaha early next week, probably Monday or Tuesday, to make final arrangements for space for the Minnesota exhibit and for the state building which will be erected. This committee will consist of F. H. Peavey, vice president for Minnesota; J. Newton Nind and E. J. Phelps. The committee will be accompanied by Architect MacLeod, who will come to look over the ground and confer with T. R. Kimball, resident architect-in-chief, regarding the exact date for the Minnesota building.

A preliminary sketch of the Minnesota building shows a very attractive structure designed along the lines indicated by Secretary Danforth when in Omaha several weeks ago with the Minnesota delegation on its first trip to the exposition. This design shows a building constructed of logs with the outer bark still on, something on the order of a Swiss cottage. This design has been regarded most favorably by the Minnesota commisssion​ and will probably be used in the construction of the state building.

Work of the Woman's Board.

The executive committee of the Woman's Board of Manager held a special session for the purpose of taking final action in approving the amended plans for the Girls' and Boys' building, but the plans had not been returned by the architect and could not be acted upon. When they are returned a meeting will be held at once and measures taken to commence construction at once.

An organization known as the Colored Women's association submitted a communication, in which it is stated that the organization is prepared to furnish "dozens of colored women or girls" for any or every "remunerative" position within the gift of the board. The cummunication​ was signed by Mrs. E. L. Mahammit, president, and Carrie King, secretary. The secretary of the Woman's board was instructed to notify the parties that the matter would be given due consideration at the proper time.

It was decided to sell a concession for the sale of sandwiches in the lower hall of the Girls' and Boys' building.

Wiring for Space.

March 15 is the time fixed by the Department of Exhibits as the last day on which applications for space will be received, and as this time approaches the telegraph wires are becoming hot with the many messages sent by belated exhibitors who make their applications in this way. Twenty messages of this character were received by the Department of Exhibits this morning and as the final day comes nearer the number seems to be increasing at an immense rate.

Labor Congress Difficulty Overcome.

The slight difference between the congress committee of the Woman's Board of Managers and the special committee representing organized labor, regarding the tome to be given the prospective labor congress, has been amicably adjusted be leaving the matter in the hands of the committee appointed by the labor unions. This committee [?]

BEAUTIFYING THE CITY PARKS.

Commissioners Arrange for Statuary and Additional Fountains.

The Board of Park Commissioners has decided to expend $5,000 for statuary at the exposition grounds on condition that the county and the exposition association will each expend an equal sum and that the entire lot is turned over to the board for the adornment of the various parks after it has served its purpose for the exposition. It is unofficially understood that this plan will be agreed to, as the statuary will naturally revert to the parks, and this makes it practically certain that the sculptural effects of the exposition will be commensurate with its architectural magnificence.

The board has also decided to place a handsome fountain on the west side of Hanscom park. This will constitute a very ornamental auxiliary to the flower beds and grass plots. The pattern that has been selected is a rustic effect with what is known as a stork base and two pans. The ground diameter of the basin is twelve feet and that of the first pan is a little over six feet. It is over twelve feet high and the figure of a boy holding a huge lily from which the water spurts is the crowning ornamentation. The fountain complete will cost about $350.

POSTOFFICE FOR THE EXPOSITION.

Distribution and Delivery of Mail at the Grounds a Problem.

It has not been decided yet what arrangements will be made in regard to mail distribution at the exposition grounds. Assistant Postmaster Woodard says that all probability the government will establish a postoffice in the Government building and that it will be run either separately or in conjunction with the Omaha office. He thinks it likely that the mail will be distributed on much the same plan it was at the World's fair, where carriers did the distributing and collecting just as in any city office. The postal department is very close run at present, and Mr. Woodard is not sure that it will feel like bearing the expense which such a system would entail.

ARRANGING FOR THE BIG WIGWAM.

Regular Weekly Meeting of the Executive Committee is Held.

At the regular weekly meeting of the executive committee of the Council Bluffs Exposition association last night a blue print of the exposition grounds was submitted showing the location of the site selected for the Pottawattamie county wigwam, together with a receipt for the amount of the first installment of the ground rental, $250, which had been paid by the committee having the matter in charge. The site is on Sherman avenue directly opposite the Iowa building, and close to the main entrance. It is one of the most desirable sites on the ground, and the big tepee will be a most conspicuous object that will arrest the attention of the visitor the moment the gates are opened. A resolution was passed instructing the wigwam committee to take the necessary steps at once for the purpose of beginning work of construction. The committee was authorized to confer with a number of the leading architects and builders for the purpose of securing working plans that will be somewhat of a modification of the original plans and will perhaps cheapen the cost of the structure. One plan will be the use of piling instead of the brick foundation, which will save a cost of 30,000 brick which were originally designed for the foundation. The piling will be much cheaper and make a much stronger footing for the building, as the upright posts will be bolted to the piling. Mayor Carson sounded a warning that the building committee must make no mistakes and take no risks in the work; that the fact must not be lost sight of that the building   must be constructed to resist severe wind storms and carry heavy weights. The modified plans must be submitted to the general committee at the next meeting, together with accurate estimates of the total cost.

The committee of women having in charge the publication of the women's edition of the Nonpareil reported that the total receipts of the venture were $566.55, the expenses $281.44, leaving a net tota​ of $285.51, one-half to be donated to the exposition committee amounting to $142.75. With the report was a submitted check for the amount and a statement that there was still due and uncollected $49.50, one-half of which would be turned over to the committee when collected. The committee from the woman's clubs who submitted the report consisted of Mesdames Metcalf, Atkins, Phelps, Reed, Hayden, McBride and Terwilliger. A vote of thanks was tendered them for their donation.

The members of the committee retired to the parlors of the hotel and formulated another plan for the purpose of assisting the association in disposing of the remainder of the exposition buttons, and after a short deliberation notified the association that they desired to meet a committee to convey the proposition to the association. Prof. Hisey and Dr. Cleaver were appointed and returned with an outline of the plan, which was to take charge of the button sales in the future. They submitted the names of nearly 100 young girls and boys whom they desire to meet at the ordinary of the Grand hotel on Saturday afternoon and interest in the work of selling the buttons. Prizes are to be offered for the work. Each girl or boy who sells ten buttons shall receive three free admission tickets into the exposition grounds, and proportionately more for larger sales. Larger prizes consisting of a bicycle, a gold watch, fine dress pattern, manicure set, etc., are to be offered to the persons selling the highest number, in addition to the regular prizes in the way of admission tickets. The offer of the women was promptly accepted, and a committee consisting of E. H. Walters, Dr. Cleaver and Prof. Hisey was appointed to confer with them and carry into execution the plans they agree upon. The secretary was instructed to notify the girls and boys whose names were presented to be at the hotel on Saturday afternoon and have the matter explained to them.

It was decided that the work on the wigwam must be well under way by the middle of April.

The financial report showed that all of the assessments of the members of the association had been paid, ranging from $10 to $25. The total amount of subscriptions outside of this list and the sale of buttons approximated a little over $2,000, and the total amount of money in the hands of the association with which to begin the construction work is between $2,500 and $3,000.

CONVENTION OF STENOGRAPHERS.

H. B. Boyles Names a Committee to Arrange for the Affair.

Another convention that is coming here this summer is that of the stenographers, the first meeting of what will probably be known as the National Stenographers' association. H. B. Boyles of this city is carrying on a correspondence which will undoubtedly result in the calling of the convention in Omaha on some days in the summer which are yet to be fixed.

The first gathering of the stenographers was held in Nashville during the exposition there last summer. There were then in attendance about 1,000 delegates from all parts of the country. At that time the plans of the national association were laid, but the complete organization was left in the hands of a committee, of which Kendrick C. Hill of New York is chairman. H. B. Boyles of this city was appointed chairman of the subcommittee on organization from this state.

A short time ago Chairman Hill wrote to Boyles, stating that he would call the next convention in this city if the proper hall and accommodations were guaranteed. In response Mr. Boyles has informed the chairman that everything in that line would be offered without expense to the association. Mr. Boyles believes that there is no doubt that the meeting will be held. It will be a considerable gathering, since it is estimated that fully the number that attended the Nashville meeting will come here.

Chairman Boyles has appointed the following to serve with him on the Nebraska organization subcommittee: Myron E. Wheeler of Lincoln, George Cocoran of Lincoln, John Maher of Chadron and H. M. Waring of this city.

Hatchet Will Come Some Day.

Secretary Ford of the Woman's Board of Managers says she has stopped making any predictions regarding the date of the appearance of the famous Hatchet, the paper which is to be issued for the benefit of the fund for the Girls' and Boys' building. She says the public is to be given a surprise by having the paper issued very soon, but she refused to divulge the exact time it will make its appearance.

Special Stamps Hang Fire.

Postmaster Martin has heard nothing from the special issue of Transmississippi Exposition stamps since February 1, when he had a lettter​ from Washington stating that it would be several months before the stamps would be ready. Many wholesale firms write to Mr. Martin wanting these stamps and thousands of dollars worth of them could have been sold if they had only been on hand.

Chauncey M. Depew's Sentiments.

Chauncey M. Depew, one of the members of the New York Exposition commission recently appointed by Governor Black, in a letter to the Department of Publicity and Promotion regarding exposition matters says: "I do not know what our commission will do, or what the legislature will be willing to do. Personally, I want the state represented as creditably as possible at the exposition."

Notes of the Exposition.

The Ohio Falls Car Manufacturing company of Jeffersonville, Ind., is a recent applicant for space for an exhibit.

The senior member of the firm of H. R. Eagle & Co. of Chicago, wholesale dealers in general merchandise direct to the consumer, is in town making arrangements for a large display at the exposition.

Colonel H. B. Maxson of Reno, vice president for Nevada, writes that there is a great interest being manifested by the people in his jurisdiction in the matter of representation at the exposition, and the territory will be heard from when the time comes.

The governor of Michigan has called an extra session of the legislature and the Department of Publicity and Promotion will make a special effort to arouse sufficient interest in that state to produce an appropriation for state participation in the exposition.

The people of west Florida are becoming aroused to the importance of having their portion of the state represented by an extensive exhibit independent of anything that may be done by the state commission. They have applied to the Department of Exhibits for space and announce that they will make an extensive exhibit of their resources.

Clement Chase has issued a very handsome exposition booklet containing sixteen full page photogravures, printed on heavy enameled paper and bound with ribbon in a parchment cover bearing a handsome design. Mr. Chase has also issued a series of sixteen souvenir cards on the style of postal cards, presenting on the reverse side in small size the main state buildings.

The Department of Exhibits is in receipt of a letter from the Los Angeles committee of arrangements, asking if that county can be assigned space where it can erect an immense column of oranges seventy-five feet in height as a portion of its exhibit. A reply has been sent to the effect that the county will be assigned a space in the Horticultural building directly underneath the dome, where a column ninety feet in height may be erected.

MAJOR CLARKSON'S SCHEME

WOULD REVIVE SOME LAPSED SOCIETIES

Expects to Enlist Services of Former Members in the Entertainment of Visitors During the Exposition Season.

An effort is to be made by the exposition management to revive the nuerous​ societies formed of natives of certain states which flourished in Omaha a few years ago, and these societies will be utilized to assist in the entertainment of people from other states who may attend the exposition on special occasions. There were a number of these societies at one time, among them being one composed of natives of Ohio, another made up of people who claimed Pennsylvania as their native state, still another formed by people from Illinois, other representing Maine, Indiana, New York, and so on to the end of the list. So far as known, these organizations have all lapsed, but Major Clarkkson, assistant to the president of the exposition, on whose shoulders rests the burden of working out the details of providing for the entertainment of visitors on special occasions, believes that these societies should be revived, and that their old mebmers​ should assist the exposition in arranging to devise plans for bringing large numbers of people to the exposition from these states and providing suitable programs for their entertainment. It is Major Clarkson's idea to have special "days" when arrangements will be made to provide special attractions for the people from a certain state and the members of the society composed of natives of that state will be asked to assist in making the visit entertaining. For instance, there will be an "Ohio day," when excursions will be run from all parts of Ohio and members of the Ohio society will be expected to fill places on the entertainment committee and assist in making the event an enjoyable one. It is believed that the presence of former residents of Ohio would go a long way towards making the visitors feel at home and would do much to induce them to prolong their stay and come again with all their friends. The same would be true of all the other societies.

Major Clarkson desires to communicate with any of the officers or members of these state societies regarding this matter, and invites them to call at his office in the Paxton block.

WISCONSIN BUILDING CONTRACT.

Committee Comes to Omaha to Award the Work of Construction.

Chairman J. C. Koch and Treasurer A. C. Clas of the Wisconsin Exposition commission are in the city for the purpose of letting the contract for the erection of the Wisconsin building on the exposition grounds. Bids for the construction were taken from local contractors several days ago and final preparations for commencing the construction will be commenced before the Wisconsin representatives leave the city.

The Wisconsin building will stand on the bluff tract, directly west of the Illinois building, being just south of the grand plaza. It will be sixty feet square and the cornice will be about thirty-five feet from the ground. The plans were made by the firm of Ferry & Clas of Milwaukee, and show a very pleasing building of classic style. The most elaborate portion of the exterior will be the main entrance, four immence​ fluted Corinthian columns supporting a broad pediment, forming a most imposing front. The whole building is Corinthian in style and will form a most pleasing contrast to its nearest neighbors, the Illinois building and the Nebraska building.

About $10,000 will be spent for the building and its embellishment. Like the Illinois and Nebraska buildings, the Wisconsin headquarters will be covered with staff. The lumber for the building has been donated by the large lumber concerns of Wisconsin and all of this material is now on the road to Omaha. The plumbing and other material required for the proper fitting of the interior of the building has also been contributed by Wisconsin manufacturers. A prominent feature of the Wisconsin building will be the central court. Almost the entire lower floor will be an immense rotunda and in the center of this will be a large funtain​, the basin to contain specimens of every variety of fish which frequent Wisconsin waters.

Chairman Koch stated that the commission has made no effort to prepare for a state exhibit of Wisconsin's resources, either in agriculture or manufactured articles, but has devoted its time and energies to inducing manufacturers and others to make exhibits. He said the work in this line had been successful and the state will be represented by a large number of exhibitors, covering all lines of products.

Names Kentucky's Commission.

Governor W. O. Bradley of Kentucky has officially notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he has appointed a Kentucky Exposition commission, composed of the following persons: Mrs. John B. Castleman, Mrs. James F. Buckner and Logan C. Murray, Louisville; H. H. Houston, Paducah; Charles H. Todd, Owensboro; C. U. McElroy, Bowling Green; Charles Blandford, Bewleyville; E. C. Hopper, Covington; Wilbur R. Smith, Lexington; George E. Welsh, jr., Danville; J. O. McCartney, Flemingsburg; E. C. O'Rea, Mt. Sterling; W. B. Hansford, Somerset.

Concerning his appointees, the governor writes: "The ladies have great influence and may do good in Louisville. I knew the state would give nothing and tried to appoint persons who would take an active interest. The gentlemen appointed are first-class."

Directors Lack a Quorum.

Yesterday was the day for the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of the exposition, but there were but twelve members present when President Wattles rapped for order after waiting three-quarters of an hour for a quorum.

The president said he wished to call especial attention to the fact that over 70 per cent of the subscriptions for exposition stock had been collected, despite the predictions made by many people when the subscriptions were obtained that more than 50 per cent of them would never be collected.

In the absence of a quorum the meeting was adjourned.

More Midway Attractions.

A characteristic Japanese tea garden is the latest acquisition to the Midway, Manager Reed having been authorized at the meeting of the executive committee yesterday afternoon to make a contract with T. Mitzutany, a native of the Flowery Kingdom, to conduct a resort of this character on the bluff tract.

Manager Reed was also authorized to make a contract with the Giant Seesaw company of Nashville for the privilege of installing and operating this machine on the Midway.

Oregon Commission Organizes.

The Oregon Exposition commission has organized for business and J. F. Batchelder, president of the Portland Mining exchange, has been elected secretary of the commission. He telegraphed to the eDpartment​ of Exhibits that Henry E. Dosch, state commissioner of agriculture, started from Portland Friday night for Omaha, to make full arrangements for space for OrOegon's​ exhibit.

Suggestion for Arkansas Building.

Among the suggestions for an Arkansas building at the exposition which are being considered by the Arkansas commission is that of Architect Gibb of Little Rock, who advises the erection of a fac simile of the Albert Pike mansion, still standing in Little Rock. General Albert Pike is widely known as the founder of the so-called southern jurisdiction of the Scottish rite, who died a few years ago after a long residence in Washington city, where the headquarters of the rite were maintained. His former residence in Little Rock is said to be a fine example of the prevailing architecture of southern homes.

BRYAN HOUSE BUILDERS

REGULAR ORGANIZATION OF SILVERITE HERO-WORSHIPPERS.

ROSEWATER'S HANDY GRAFT

Gets Big Pay for Booming His Paper —[?] ffle Jacobs' Damage Suit—Population About Omaha—Notes.

OMAHA, March 11.—Unless the bimetallists of Nebraska prove long on zeal and short on cash and energy the Bryan homestead will be reproduced on the exposition grounds as a counter attraction to the McKinley homestead. The committee announced to take charge of the Bryan homestead movement met today at the Paxton hotel. There were present E. E. Brown, G. W. Berge, O. N. Humphrey and James Manahan of Lincoln, J. B. Kitchen, R. L. Metcalfe, I. J. Dunn, Frank T. Ransom, Frank Hibbard, Dr. Hipple, Dr. Saville, Willis Hudspeth, all of Omaha, C. M. Hunt of South Omaha and T. J. Evans of Council Bluffs. G. W. Berge was called to the chair and Mr. Metcalfe made secretary. The latter was invited to explain the object of the meeting and did so.

A committee comprising Messrs. Metcalfe, Manahan and Hibbard was appointed on permanent organization. There seemed to be an idea entertained that space for the proposed enterprise might be denied by the exposition authorities and a committee comprising Messrs. E. E. Brown, Dr. Saville and O. N. Humphrey was chosen to wait upon Superintendent Kirkendall of the department of buildings and grounds and consult with him in regard to securing the necessary space.

In due time this committee returned from Mr. Kirkendall's office with the assurance that the required space would be allowed subject to the same regulations and restrictions as the space for the McKinley home. Mr. Kirkendall requested that plans of the proposed building be made and some idea given of the amount of space required and when they are completed he is ready to go to the grounds with the committee and aid in picking out the location. Some time after the committee had reported a formal letter was received from Manager Kirkendall, which was the exact counterpart of one sent to Canton, O., regarding space for the McKinley home. It provides that there shall be no competitive exhibits in the building and nothing offered for sale. It was stated that this will preclude the giving away of campaign literature in either building.

This communication was placed on file and its acknowledgement was ordered, with the information that the committee on construction will work in harmony with and report to Manager Kirkendall.

The committee on permanent organization reported a plan whereby the management of the affairs of the enterprise shall be vested in a president, a vice president, a secretary and treasurer, with finance, auditing, construction, literature and souvenir committees. This report also recommended G. W. Berge for chairman, I. J. Dunn for vice president, F. T. Ransom for secretary and J. B. Kitchen for treasurer. For the committees the report favored the following:

Finance and auditing—J. B. Kitchen, T. J. Evans, J. H. Broady, G. A. Magney and C. M. Hunt.

Construction—F. B. Hibbard, O. N. Humphrey, Willis Hudspeth, A. H. Hipple and I. J. Dunn.

Literature—J. H. Broady, J. J. Saville, James Manahan, E. E. Brown and G. W. Berge.

Souvenirs—James Manahan, C. M. Hunt, T. J. Evans and J. H. Broady.

The report was adopted as presented and Mr. Ransom was authorized to engage a stenographer at $10 a week.

The committee on construction was directed to have plans of the Bryan home in Lincoln prepared at once and report at the next meeting the probable cost of the projected building.

The Paxton hotel was made headquarters and it was determined to meet again Thursday afternoon. The finance committee was requested to at that time present a plan for raising the necessary funds by popular subscription.

The proposition of the Canton people is to reproduce the McKinley home and prepare also an exhibit of the manufactures of Canton and in his reply to the request for space for the Bryan homestead Manager Kirkendall adhered so strictly to the program in the McKinley project that he referred to an exhibit of the manufactured products of Lincoln. It is not understood, however, that the committee intends to include any such in the exhibit.

Never Forsakes the Main Chance.

Considerable comment has been created among the newspaper publishers of the state by a recent announcement that Mr. Rosewater, as a manager of the exposition, has been enabled to play into the hands of Mr. Rosewater, as the publisher of a newspaper, to his great advantage in the latter capacity. It has just been announced that he is soon to issue a pictoral​ supplement to the Bee, for which he will draw the neat sum of $3,200 out of the exposition exchequer. Mr. Rosewater is a lucky man. He will be the only Nebraska publisher who has been able to get a finger into the till of the great enterprise and he will at one fell swoop pull out of it nearly as much as his subscription to the exposition, concerning which subscription listening Nebraskans have heard now and then from Mr. Rosewater's own lips. Speaking on this subject a well known Nebraska newspaper man said:

"It looks to me decidedly cheeky to allow Rosewater that $3,200 for the circulation of a picture that is bound to prove a great feature for his paper and which one would think he would be willing to exploit free to the exposition as a bit of merited newspaper enterprise. You will remember that the Bee was given the privilege, or got it in some way, of sending out the official bird's eye view of the grounds as a supplement, and he must have made a handsome figure out of it, for he charged 10 cents a copy for the paper, and there were firms in Omaha who sent out hundreds of them. It seems to me that if I were running a newspaper enterprise of the magnitude of the Bee in Omaha I could somehow find a way to send out these pictures which the Bee is to send out and do it as a stroke of enterprise without asking any $3,200 from the exposition for it. The exposition has received a great deal of free and valuable advertising from the newspapers of the land on the theory that it is an enterprise that merits the support of the press, but none of the publishers who have opened their columns to its announcements would have done so with the freedom that they have had it ever been supposed that the editor of a local paper who has a pull as a manager would get his gaff into the treasury for over $3,000 for a work which his duty as a publisher to the community should prompt him to do without compensation from the exposition management and which will inure to the great advantage of the paper, possibly to a greater degree than the money that is to be received for the work. For my part I think it is treating the papers in other cities decidedly shabby and while the management may have been led into this expense by the discovery that it is the only way to keep in the expense I do not think it does any very great degree of credit to Mr. Rosewater or the Bee to have it announced that the management has had to pay him $3,200 for what most any newspaper would have done for its community without other pay than the prestige it would give the paper and the money that could be made from the sale of the papers."

ADDITION TO ILLINOIS EXHIBIT.

Art Gallery to Be a Feature at the Omaha Exposition.

The Illinois commission is contemplating an addition to the Illinois building, to be used as an art gallery, which will prove an elegant and attractive feature of the beautiful state building now nearing completion in the grounds of the transmississippi exposition at Omaha. The principal feature of the art gallery will doubtless be the four large oil paintings of the world's fair, each ten by twenty-five feet in size, thus affording another opportunity of viewing the "white city" of memory.

The Illinois Stock Breeders' Association will see that the breeders of fine stock are well represented, while the state horticultural society will probably make such an exhibit as will call attention to the fact that Illinois is a great fruit growing state and grows more and better apples than any other state in the union. The exhibit of the agricultural implements manufactured in Illinois will probably exceed in character and amount any previous exhibit from this state. The coal operators have under consideration a grand exhibit of the great coal and mining interests of Illinois.

The transmississippi exposition promises to excel all previous expositions ever held in this country, always excepting the great world's fair in 1893. The transmississippi states are so great in area that if laid down upon the map they would cover several kingdoms of the old world and overlap the territory usually assigned as the "markets of the world." They are peculiarly the market of Illinois and lie at her very door. Over 50,000 square feet have already been secured for Illinois exhibitors, and more is in process of negotiation. The managers of the exposition have extended the time for acceptance of applications for space from March 1 to March 15, although they have had to increase their accommodation for exhibits by building annexes to some of the main buildings and putting up some entirely new ones.

Exhibitors who have not yet secured space have no time to spare, and should make their applications at once. The office of the Illinois transmississippi commission is at room 206, 218 LaSalle street.

CANTON AT OMAHA.

Senator Thurston's Suggestion Calls Out Criticism.

NEBRASKA'S FREE SILVER ORGAN

Does Not Want the McKinley Cottage Reproduced At the Exposition Unless Bryan's Home is Also Represented—Mrs. Sherwood in Washington.

Washington, March 12.—(Special.)—The suggestion recently made to the city of Canton by Senator Thurston, that a reproduction of the famous McKinley homestead be erected at the Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition has aroused considerable comment both in Omaha and in this city. On the seventh of the month an application to erect such a building was made to the exposition directory and permission and a site were granted. The free silver organ of Nebraska, the World-Herald thought it saw a political scheme in the concession and in a triple-leaded, double-column editorial called upon all of the white metal faith to erect a reproduction of the Bryan homestead on the exposition grounds, and suggests that at least one room of the proposed fac-simile be devoted to the distribution of literature telling of the dire effects of the single gold standard and the benefit to be derived by returning to bimetallism. It also says that the proposed reproduction of the McKinley home is by "idolators of the single gold standard."

The Washington Post in commenting editorially on the World-Herald editorial, rightly states that it would be improper to fight again the battle of '96 at the exposition, but says it would be at the height of impropriety to erect on the grounds a reproduction of the home of a private citizen.

OLD FASHIONED FAIRNESS.

compels that the impression conveyed by the World-Herald be corrected. The senator did not intimate anything of a political nature in his interview with The Repository correspondent and the idea that a collection of souvenirs would add to the attractiveness of the industrial exhibit, was only intimated. At any rate, Canton again secures considerable free advertising from the proposition, which every one here appears to think should be taken up by the board of trade and Business Men's association. Letters received by Canton people in this city from officials of the exposition show that the Omaha people are anxious to have this unique exhibit. One writer says that "the world will be astonished at the display, the magnitude and beauty of the grounds. From an architectural point of view, it will be superior to the World's Fair. The buildings are not so large but they are better grasped."

However, the World-Herald has viewed the proposition of Senator Thurston from a very

NARROW POINT OF VIEW

through a deeply colored pair of glasses. In giving me this interview the senator was actuated solely by a desire to further the interests of the exposition and incidentally to benefit Canton. That the concession for the erection of the building was so easily obtained was evidence that the idea was so considered by the directors of the exposition.

MRS. SHERWOOD AT THE CAPIT[?]

SELLING WIGWAM BUTTONS

Children Enlisted in Behalf of Exposition Work.

ADD INCENTIVE OF PRIZES TO PATRIONISM

Committee of Women's Board Makes Arrangements by Which a Lot of the Buttons Will be Disposed Of.

The women who have undertaken the work of disposing of the remainder of the exposition buttons had a most successful meeting in the ordinary of the Grand hotel yesterday afternoon. The committee of women having the matter in charge consists of Mrs. George T. Phelps, Mrs. B. S. Terwilliger, Mrs. Thomas Metcalf, Mrs. R. J. McBride, Mrs. J. B. Atkins and Mrs. S. H. Foster. In accordance with the arrangements made at the meeting of the Exposition association on Thursday night at which the secretary of the association was instructed to invite a large number of young people to meet the committee, there was a large number of boys and girls present when the women were ready to explain their scheme for selling buttons to raise funds for the building of the wigwam. The committee outlined the plan and made it very clear to the boys and girls, who entered into the scheme with great enthusiasm. According to the plan any person who is recommended by the committee can engage in the sale of buttons and for every five buttons sold at $1 each, which is the uniform price, will be given one admission ticket to the Transmississippi Exposition. If the sales reach the number of 1,000 buttons, the following prizes will be awarded:

To the person selling the greatest number of buttons, a first-calling, high grade bicycle, for either lady or gentleman.

To the girl or boy selling the second highest number of buttons will be given each a fine gold watch.

The fourth prize will be a high class camera and outfit; and there will be other prizes, the exact nature of which has not been determined.

Should the sale of the buttons reach 2,000 in number, the prizes will be doubled. The time limit for the sale is June 1, at which time all prizes will be awarded. This competition is open to all who desire to take part, and application should be made to one of the members of the women's committee. The Exposition association is represented in this work by a committee consisting of Mr. E. H. Walters, Dr. J. H. Cleaver and Prof. J. C. Hisey.

CALIFORNIA'S EXPOSITION

People of the State University Favor Holding a Big Fair.

DATE HAS NOT YET BEEN SETTLED

Celebration of the Semi-Centennial of Statehood—Progress of the Pacific Coast in Fifty Years—Invitations Sent Out.

SAN FRANCISCO, March 11.—(Special.)—It is now practically certain that there will be a state exposition held in this city in celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of statehood. The suggestion that the golden wedding of the state to the union be made the occasion of a grand exposition has met with hearty approval on all sides. The merchants and citizens of San Francisco have pledged their hearty support and several of the mayors representing interior cities of the state, have also promised aid. Mayors Land of Sacramento, M. P. Snyder of Los Angeles, Valentine Koch of San Jose, J. A. Fuller of Napa, W. T. Ellis of Marysville, C. J. Craycroft of Fresno, D. C. Reed of San Diego and Charles P. Patterson of Pomona have expressed their favorable feelings toward the proposed celebration. They are united in the opinion that the exposition should be held, not alone to represent and fittingly advertise the resources and products of California, but those of the junior states admitted after our state. We have in addition been promised the aid of several of the contiguous states, and by a concentration of action we will be able to hold an exposition in 1900 that will draw the attention of the entire world to the country west of the Rockies.

While everyone admits that an exposition would prove of incalculable benefit there is not a unanimity of opinion as to just when it should be held. There are some who fear that the Paris fair, which will be held the same year, would prove a counter attraction and keep many away who would visit us if our exposition should not be held until 1901.

The time of holding the exposition will be probably fixed by a committee to be appointed by Mayor Phelan within the next few days.

Governor Budd has sent out invitations to the chief magistrates of adjoining states asking them to join us in making the semi-centennial one that will redound to the credit of the entire Pacific slope.

EXECUTIVE COMMITEE MEETING.

Two Communications on Sunday Closing Are Received.

The executive committee was entertained at its meeting yesterday afternoon by two communications relating to the mooted question of closing the gates of the exposition on Sunday. The first was an official communication from the secretary of the Painters' and Decorators' union, notifying the committee that at the last regular meeting of the union a resolution had been unanimously adopted protesting against closing the gates on Sunday. The second communication was from Rev. J. R. Getty, who signed himself as pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church of DeWitt, Neb. He stated that he had felt very friendly toward the exposition and had about concluded to attend and advise all his friends to do the same, but since learning that the gates might be kept open on Sunday he had concluded to withdraw his support and that of the 200 members of his congregation unless it was decided to close the gates on the first day of the week.

Vote Down Exposition Appropriation.

ABERDEEN, S. D., March 12.—(Special.)—The Board of County Commissioners has voted down a proposition to make an appropriation for the Transmississippi Exposition, although a request for the appropriation was presented which bore the signature of over sixty business men and citizens. It is hoped more favorable action can be secured at a later meeting.

Will and Frank Dinger have again been arrested at Sisseton for selling liquor to the Indians on the reservation.

A bicycle for a little girl 20 months old is being built here. The machine has a ten-inch frame and is believed to be the smallest yet made. It is expected the little girl will be able to ride the wheel by the time she is 2 years old. If this hope is realized Aberdeen will be able to boast of having the youngest girl cyclist on earth. She should be allotted full space at the Omaha exposition.

MONTANA TO HAVE FINE DISPLAY

Immediate Steps Will Be Taken to Erect a Building.

W. H. Sutherlin, vice president of the Montana Exposition board, arrived in Omaha last night and will take immediate steps to begin the Montana building. As soon as the plans are approved by the architect-in-chief work will be commenced. The building is to be two stories in height and the general plan of it is not quite completed. Mr. Sutherlin says the exhibits are largely prepared and will be shipped as soon as a place is provided for them. The exhibits of mineral will be finer than anything the state has ever sent out. The leading mines of the state will each have their separate departments and an effort will be made to arrange the ores so as to show how they are disposed in the veins and their general condition before they are taken from the mine. Professor Craig of Missoula, professor of geology in the State University of Montana, has charge of the geological exhibit and will have a classified collection of the many formations that crop out in the state. Professor Craig has also prepared specimens of all the fish found in Montana. The timber exhibit is under the supervision of Lieutenant Abron of the State Agricultural school. The largest tree in the state will be brought to Omaha and the commission is having some difficulty in deciding between several contestants for the honor. Montana will also have an art exhibit to which Russell, the cowboy artist, will be the chief contributor. Mr. Sutherlin expresses the opinion that the thing which will create the most surprise is the fine exhibit of agricultural products which is being prepared. He says that the state has always been considered a mining state and a few people know of its agricultural resources.

RELATING TO INDIAN CONGRESS.

Mr. Rosewater Will Consult with Commissioner Jones.

WASHINGTON, March 12.—(Special Telegram.)—Mr. Rosewater, who is now in New York, will hold an important conference tomorrow with Commissioner of Indian Affairs Jones and Major Powell of the Bureau of Ethnology in relation to the proposed Indian congress, Mr. Rosewater having been summoned to Washington by Commissioner Jones, who desires to have the benefit of his judgment as to the lines upon which the congress should be erected. Later in the day the chairman of the Bureau of Publicity and Promotion of the exposition will have a conference with the director of the mint, Roberts, in relation to souvenirs and medals for the exposition. Mr. Rosewater is now in New York, but is expected here tomorrow.

Exposition Chorus Meeting.

The exposition chorus will meet Tuesday night in the large room in the southwest corner of the fifth floor of the city hall. A piano will be placed in the room and the elevator will be in operation to carry members of the chorus to the top floor. The Easter hymn from Cavalleria Rusticana, "The Daughter of Jairus," and "By Babylon's Wave" are in rehearsal and will be taken up by Choral Director Kelly.

A number of new voices have been tested during the last week by Mr. Kelly and will be added to the chorus at the next meeting.

Letters have been sent to all of the leading singers of the city, inviting them to aid the exposition by giving their assistance to the chorus and becoming members of it.

An exposition chorus will be organized in Council Bluffs some time this week. Choral Director Kelly will call a meeting of the singers of the Iowa city within a few days and will form a chorus which will be drilled by him on the same music rehearsed by the Omaha chorus.

Bids on the Dairy Building.

Bids for the construction of the Dairy building were opened at the office of the Department of Buildings and Grounds as follows: Westlake Construction company, $4,728; R. C. Strehlow, $5,375; Thomas Herd, $5,500; A. G. Wahlstrom $5,780; William Goldie & Sons company, $5,845.

These bids were laid before the executive committee yesterday afternoon and the contract awarded the Westlake Construction company.

CASH FROM DOUGLAS COUNTY

Commissioners Will Help Woman's Board of Managers Materially.

FUNDS FOR BOYS' AND GIRLS' BUILDING

Twenty-Five Hundred Dollars Appropriated to Aid Its Construction—Announcement Comes from Good Authority.

If the members of the Board of County Commissioners follow out the plan that they now propose it is certain that the Boys' and Girls' building on the exposition grounds will be constructed along the lines proposed.

For some weeks the promoters of the   [?] construct a building for the ex-[?] use of the children who visit the exposition have been doubtful about being able to raise funds. The county commissioners have about decided to come to their relief and appropriate the sum of $2,500, to be applied to the construction and maintenance of the building.

One of the county commissioners last night in speaking of the condition of the proceeds of the bonds voted by the county in aid of the exposition said: "At the adjourned meeting of the board, to be held next Wednesday, one of the commissioners will offer a resolution appropriating the sum of $2,500 to aid in the construction and maintenance of the Boys' and Girls' building. It is certain that the resolution will be adopted by a unanimous vote, as all of the members have expressed themselves as being favorable to the project. We have reached this conclusion after making a careful estimate of the funds that will be required to collect and maintain the Douglas county exhibit. While we are under no obligation to expend the entire proceeds of the $100,000 of exposition bonds we feel that we are justified in assisting in the construction of the Boys' and Girls' building."

MAKES THE BUILDING CERTAIN.

When informed of the aid that the county commissioners had promised in the erection of the Boys' and Girls' building Secretary Wakefield said: "This means that the building is certain and that it will be constructed along the original lines proposed. Up to this time it has been doubtful about the Woman's board being able to raise sufficient funds to carry out the original ideas, that of having a building to cost $8,000. Now, however, all doubts are removed, as the money for construction is practically all in sight. The women have raised about $4,000 and $1,500 will be realized from the Hatchet, which with the $2,500 that the county will appropriate will make up the $8,000 required. The maintenance of the building will require considerable cash, but I think that this is all provided for. The exposition people have given the concession privileges of the building to the board and then there is a prospect that $1,500 will be secured from another source. With this money all in sight the building is a go, and I am of the opinion that it will be one of the features of the exposition."

CHANGES WROUGHT IN A YEAR.

Progress at Kountze Park Since March 18, 1897, is Wonderful.

The exposition ground is about the liveliest place in town and the manner in which the work of preparation is being pushed is an example of energy and push which gives great promise of the miracle to be accomplished in transforming the rough tract of broken ground into a park of beauty and a city of palaces. It is just one year since work was commenced on the construction of the exposition buildings and the preparation of the grounds. March 18, 1897, was the date on which the first stake was set for the gradens​, but since that time the transformation which has taken place is marvelous. The work has gone steadily on, the unusually open winter having made it possible to work out of doors continuously, and while no great effort has been made to rush the work, the progress has been satisfactory. Within the last few weeks, however, the greatest activity has been displayed about the grounds and the work of preparation is being pushed with energy. An army of men is employed and the change that has been wrought in the appearance of the grounds in that time is fully as remarkable as the change that has been made by the erection of the buildings.

Persons who have not visited the grounds for the last month will be surprised to find that the bare and bleak bluff tract, which was devoid of trees except along the edge of the bluff, has been transformed into a perfect forest. Trees forty feet in height and from six to ten inches in diameter dot the tract on every side, being arranged according to a well conceived plan, and shrubbery in profusion is growing where none grew before. The same is true with regard to the main court, trees and shrubbery being used here to the best advantage, particular attention being paid to the requirements of the stiff design prevailing in this portion of the grounds.

CHANGES NATURE'S FACE.

All of these improvements are being carried on under the direction of Rudolf Ulrich, the landscape architect engaged for the purpose. Over 200 men are working under his direction. Trees and shrubbery have been hauled to the grounds by the carload and are banked on the grand plaza on the bluff tract until required in working out the detailed design in each portion of the grounds. The result of this work has been to change entirely the general appearance of the entire exposition grounds, the greatest change being apparent on the bluff tract, where the trees and shrubs are used much more liberally than in any other portion. The walks are bordered with large trees to afford ample shade in the summer and the bushes are used very freely along the fence and at points where a background of green will add to the general effect.

The making of roadways about the grounds is also progressing fully as rapidly. The contractor having charge of making the roadways on the bluff tract commenced work the first of last week, the start being made on the broad avenue which will extend entirely through the Midway. This roadway will be seventy feet in width and will extend from the grand plaza to the north viaduct and from this viaduct directly west to Twentieth street. The avenue will be macadamized, as will all the walks on the bluff tract. A twelve-ton roller is being used in the work and the top dressing of gravel, well rolled, will prevent any possibility of dust.

Work will be commenced tomorrow on the walks in the main court. It has been decided to make these walls of brick laid in three inches of sand. A large force of men under Mr. Urich will be employed on this tract tomorrow and the laying of walks and making of parks will be carried on at the same time, the earth excavated for the walks being utilized in making the parks. The work will be commenced at the east end of the main court and extended to the west end as fast as possible.

STAFF MEN CLEANING UP.

In preparation for this work, the staff contractors have been very busy for the last two or three days cleaning up the debris about the buildings at the east end of the main court. This work has been nearly completed about the buildings east of Twentieth street and the sheds used by the contractors for workshops have disappeared. Smith & Eastman, the staff contractors, will proceed at once to finish the little work remaining to be done on the buildings east of Twentieth street and the east end of the main court will soon take on a finished appearance.

The laying of storm sewers and conduits for electric light wires has been completed at the east end of the main court and the buildings in that portion of the grounds have been completely wired for electric lights. The west half of the court is being pushed with might and main and will be completed within a very short time.

The government building is keeping up with its excellent record in making progress. The work of the carpenters is now concentrated on the huge dome and this is rapidly nearing completion. The scaffolding which completely filled the interior of the dome has been removed and a small staging in the extreme top is all that obstructs a view of the full structure. The height of the dome inside is over 100 feet. Preparations are being made to place the collossal​ figure of Liberty Enlightening the World in position on the extreme top of the lantern crowning the dome and within a few days this towering figure will be a land mark in full view from all parts of town. The west wall of both wings of this building are covered with staff and the scaffolding will be removed at once. Work on the east front is making rapid progress.

Oregon Commission Organizes.

The Oregon Exposition commission has organized for business and J. F. Batchelder, president of the Portland Mining exchange, has been elected secretary of the commission. He telegraphed to the Department of Exhibits that Henry E. Dosch, state commissioner of agriculture, started from Portland Friday night for Omaha, to make full arrangements for space for Oregon's exhibit.

STATE DEPARTMENT'S SHOW

Portion of the Government's Exposition Exhibit Outlined.

MANY INTERESTING RELICS OF GREAT MEN

Letters of Washington, Madison, Hamilton and Jefferson, Papers Signed by Foreign Potentates and Similar State Documents.

As the principal object of the government exhibit at the exposition is to show the people of the United States what the government is doing and the manner in which it is done, the Department of State has paid particular attention to making an elaborate and extensive exhibit of its functions and the methods adopted by it for transacting its business. For this purpose a brief history of the department has been printed for free distribution, setting forth the methods of transacting business in each bureau, beginning with the receipt of the business matter in the department and then showing in consecutive order the progress of such business matter, through the various bureaus and official hands, until the same is finally disposed of and notice thereof duly given to the proper party. This will be more fully explained by actual examples of work properly arranged in cases, in a convenient and compact form, which, together with photographs of the different rooms in the department, will make an instructive and comprehensive exhibit.

Particular attention will be given to the method of applying for and procuring passports, the different blank forms used in applying for them and the places where they may be obtained.

PAPERS BY GREAT MEN.

The historical archives of the department contain many rare collections of papers and letters written by men connected with the foundation of the government. There will be on exhibition one volume of the "Washington Papers," containing manuscript letters of George Washington, including that of December 29, 1783, resigning his commission as general of the army. This collection comprises 313 volumes. There is one volume in each of the following collections in the exhibit: The Madison papers, in seventy-five volumes; the Hamilton papers, in sixty-five volumes; the Jefferson papers, in 131 volumes; the Monroe papers, in twenty-two volumes, and the Franklin papers, in thirty-four volumes. These papers were all purchased by the government. There will be also the diaries of Washington, volume 1, May to August, 1781; volume ii, August 14 to November 5, 1781; volume iii, September 2 to October 4, 1784; the commission of General Washington as commander-in-chief, from the archives of congress (this is the original engrossed parchment surrendered by him at Annapolis), and Washington's meteorological record, 1799, which probably contains the last words written by him.

The department has in its custody the original Declaration of Independence, but this precious document is so faded that it became necessary to protect it from the light. A fac simile will be exhibited, with thirty-eight portraits of the signers. Accompanying these will be an artotype of the original rough draft containing interlineations and corrections by Adams and Franklin, a reproduction of the original petition to the king of England, October 26, 1774, presented to him by Franklin, and also an artotype of the original Constitution of the United States, with thirty-six portraits of the signers, making an interesting and instructive exhibit. These artotype reproductions are so like the originals that they are esteemed equally good for exhibition.

LETTERS FROM FOREIGNERS.

There will be a fine collection of autograph letters from foreign officials and celebrities to the presidents of the United States, among them being one from Robespierre, Barere; Carnot; Louis, king of France; Napoleon I; Jerome Bonaparte; Queen Victoria; Alexander I of Russia; William I, emperor of Germany; President Diaz of Mexico; Ranavalamonica, queen of Madagascar, and Chulalongkorn, king of Siam. The autographs of the presidents are shown in original proclamations on various subjects, the only signatures lacking being those of President William Henry Harrison and President James A. Garfield, both of whom died before signing one.

There will be a set of portraits of the secretaries of state of the United States, maps showing the growth of the United States' diplomatic and consular service; maps showing the expansion of the United States under treaty provisions; Andrew Jackson's sword; swords presented to the United States by Japan and Siam; Malay krises captured from pirates; a large gold medal set with diamonds, containing a fine cameo with a representation of Columbus discovering America, designed and presented to the United States by the sultan of Turkey in commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the discovery of America; a statuette of George Washington by Baron Marchetti from the original study and model by his master, Houdon of Paris, in 1785-90, for an equestrian statue, which, according to Thomas Jefferson, then United States minister to France, was sent to America by Houdon with the expectation of receiving an order from the congress of the United States to have it cast in bronze, but the model was destroyed by fire in Washington, leaving this statuette as the only survival. It was in the possession of the Rit. Hon. George Young of Edinburgh, Scotland, and at the time of the Chicago exposition he presented it to the United States, and it was placed in the custody of this department.

Two flags of much interest will be exhibited, one, a silk flag woven in one piece, paid for by subscriptions received from 25,000 weavers of Lyons, France, and presented to the United States as a durable expression of their sympathy at the death of President Abraham Lincoln; the other is the first American flag raised over Alaska.

A photograph of the Bartholdi Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World, now standing in the harbor of New York, together with the original deed of gift from France and the acceptance of the same by the United States; photographs of several of the buildings occupied by the Department of State; the seal of the United States, the obverse of which is the legal representation of the coat of arms, emblazoned in oils according to the provisions of the act of congress creating it; the development of the seal shown by illustrations reproduced from the manuscript reports of the committees of the Continental congress showing the various designs submitted; photographs of buildings occupied by some of our consuls in various parts of the world, and a number of minor objects too numerous to mention in detail, will complete the exhibit.

Building the Streets of Cairo.

The material for the construction of the Streets of Cairo has been delivered on the exposition grounds and work will be commenced at once on this concession. This feature of the Midway will occupy a space 400 feet in length on the upper end of the bluff tract, extending from the north viaduct to the permanent brick building at Manderson street. The most imposing structure on the street will be a mosque, where the inhabitants of the street will hold their religious services. a large theater will be another important feature and in this will be given the amusements which have come to be regarded as a necessary adjunct to the Cairo concession. There will be plenty of bazaars and shops for the manufacture of articles for sale. A circular space about sixty feet in diameter at   each end of the village will afford opportunities for the ceremonies and games which will be constantly going on. About $18,000 will be expended on this concession in preparing the buildings.

DATES FOR THE CONVENTIONS.

Time for the Session of a Number of Omaha Gatherings.

More than eighty conventions are to be held in Omaha during the exposition, but many of them have not yet decided upon a date. The following dates are assured, and it is probable that within another week the full list can be reported:

National Cricket Clubs, June 25 to 30. J. B. Reynolds, secretary, Omaha. (National.) Attendance, 250.

Transmississippi Turnfest, June 30 to July 3. Philip Andres, secretary, Omaha. (Interstate.) Attendance, 7,000.

Nebraska Poultry Association, September 19 to October 1. E. A. Pegler, secretary, Lincoln, Neb. (State.) Attendance, 200.

National Live Stock Exchange, October, 1898. C. W. Baker, secretary, Union Stock Yards, Chicago, Ill. (National.) Attendance, 100.

Nebraska State Homeopathic Medical Society, June 23 to 30. Dr. P. C. Moriarty, secretary, Omaha. (State.) Attendance, 100.

Transmississippi Teachers' Convention, June 28 to 30. J. M. Gillan, secretary, Omaha. (Interstate.) Attendance, 7,000.

Nebraska State Masonic Grand Lodge, June 15. W. R. Bowen, secretary, Omaha. (State.) Attendance, 500.

Gran Commandry Knights Templar, April 1. W. R. Bowen, secretary, Omaha. (State.) Attendance, 500.

Scottish Rite Masons of the United States, April 26. W. R. Bowen, secretary, Omaha. (National.) Attendance, 500.

Nebraska Grand Lodge Knights of Pythias, October 11. Will H. Love, secretary, Lincoln, Neb. (State.) Attendance, 400.

Travelers' Protective association May 31 to June 3. Lewis T. LeBeaume, secretary, Union Trust building, St. Louis, Mo. (National.) Attendance, 500.

General Assembly United Presbyterian Church of North America, May 25 to 31. Rev. William J. Reid, principal clerk, Pittsburg, Penn. (National.) Attendance 250.

National Association Railway Postal Clerks, June 8. George A. Wood, secretary, West Medford, Mass. (National.) Attendance 100.

National Funeral Directors' association, October 12. Charles W. Nully, secretary, Philadelphia, Pa. (National.) Attendance 500.

National Republican League, July 15 to 17. M. J. Dowling, secretary, Chicago, Ill. (National.) Attendance 1,600.

American Association Nurserymen, June 8 and 9. G. C. Saeger, secretary, Rochester, N. Y. (National.) Attendance 200.

National Dental society, August 30 to September 2. Dr. Emma E. Chase, secretary, 3334 Washington avenue, St. Louis Mo. (National.) Attendance 700.

Nebraska Dental association, August 29. W. H. Latey, secretary, Omaha. (State.) Attendance 150.

National Association of Dental Examiners, September 2 and 3. Charles A. Meeker, secretary, 29 Fulton street, Newark, N. J. (National.) Attendance 50.

National Association of Dental Faculties, September 2 and 3. Dr. J. H. Kennedy, secretary, St. Louis, Mo. (National.) Attendance 50.

Annual convention American Cemetery superintendents, September 12 to 17. Frank Eurich, secretary, Detroit, Mich. (National.) Attendance 150.

Nebraska State Association Funeral Directors, September 12 to 14. Peter Bell, secretory​, Norfolk, Neb. (State.) Attendance 100.

Nebraska State Pharmaceutical society, June 6. W. N. Heilman, secretary, Tecumseh, Neb. (State.) Attendance 250.

The Western Surgical and Gynecological association December 24 to 26. Dr. George H. Simons, secretary, Lincoln, Neb. (State.) Attendance 200.

American Institute of Homeopathy, June 23 to 30. E. H. Porter, secretary, 181 West Seventy-third street, New York City. (National.) Attendance, 600.

HATCHET READY TO BE HANDLED.

Paper Issued by the Women's Board of Managers is Out.

The famous Hatchet has made its appearance at last. It has been turned out by the printers and is now in the hands of the managing editor, the business manager, the circulation manager and all the other managers. The papers for the towns in the state will be sent out by express at once and those intended for circulation in Omaha will be distributed Monday.

The patronesses appointed for the several schools will act as distributing agents for the subscriptions which were taken by the school children. The papers will be sent to these patronesses Monday and given by them to the pupils who secured the subscriptions and thus delivered to the subscribers. The paper will also be on sale at all of the principal news stands, the proprietors of these having agreed to handle them without the usual commission.

A corps of boys will be enlisted Monday by the circulation manager and will thoroughly canvass the entire business district of the city and endeavor to dispose of all the papers. These boys will not receive any commission, all of the profits from the paper being designed to aid in the construction of the Girls' and Boys' building on the exposition grounds. The women hope to realize a profit [?] $1,000 on this paper and this amount [?]

Typographically, the Hatchet is a very handsome publication. The cover is of ivory enamelled paper and a novel idea is shown on the front page of the cover. There is nothing on it to indicate the name of the paper or the nature of the contents. All that appears is a design of oval shape, with twenty tiny baby faces peeping out, while the center is filled with a larger picture. All of these little faces are portraits in half-tone engraving, and the effect is extremely pretty and suitable for framing. Inside, the contents are found to be fully as inviting as the cover. The style of the paper is very neat and artistic and the work is well done, resulting in a very handsome publication. The reading matter is well selected, being largely the work of children, but is devoid of the air of chidishness​ which might be anticpiated​. Portraits of children are scattered through the pages and there are also engravings of the exposition buildings, not omitting the Girls' and Boys' building, which is shown in a handsome cut.

The issue of the paper was 25,000 copies of which about 15,000 have already been sold by subscription. The women expect to dispose of the remainder within a very few days by active canvassing and they urge the people to buy them and send them to their friends in all parts of the country.

ILLUMINATIONS FOR THE STREETS.

City Electrician Schurig Has a Plan to Provide for Exposition Display.

City Electrician Schurig is considering a scheme by which the streets in the business district may by illuminated all through the exposition with the funds that have been provided for use during the week of the Ak-Sar-Ben festivities. He says that the system of stringing incandescent lights along the streets is at the best very unsatisfactory. The temporary construction that supports the lights is not sufficiently substantial to withstand the wind, and it is impossible to get the best results by keeping the lights up to the required candle power. His plan contemplates the erection of substantial arches over the principal intersections which will afford a solid support for the lights and which will stand as long as they are wanted. The iron motor poles that now stand on the street corners will furnish the vertical supports for the arches. The latter can be very inexpensively constructed of angle iron steel with a strip of thin galvanized iron underneath to protect the lamps from the weather. Mr. Schurig suggests that if the business establishments on each corner will provide the arches the funds appropriated by the council will be sufficient to furnish the lights through the exposition. The expense of an arch on each intersection will be very little after it is divided among the various business firms in the vicinity. Then the business district will be attractively illuminated during the entire exposition, and it will be very easy to add some additional effects during Ak-Sar-Ben week. The scheme has not been fully worked out, but Mr. Schurig will obtain bids for the construction cost, and then the matter will rest with the business men interested. It is believed that the idea can be successfully carried out at a cost that will allow the down town business concerns to secure a permanent illumination in front of their places of business for very few dollars each.

Chadron's Militia is Coming.

CHADRON, Neb., March 12.—(Special.)—It is practically assured the Chadron will be represented at the encampment of the Nebraska National Guard in Omaha during the Transmississippi Exposition, by a company from this city. Adjutant General Barry was in Chadron Thursday looking over the field with a view of reporting to the State Military board on the advisability of establishing a company here. He was most favorably impressed and stated that he would recommend the organization of a company of National guards. The business men and young men of the city are a unit in their desires for such an organization and that it would be a success is a certainty.

Will Reproduce Bryan's Home.

Application has been made to the executive committee for space to erect on the grounds a fac simile reproduction of the Lincoln home of Mr. W. J. Bryan. The permission requested has been granted. Permission had already been given for the reproduction of the McKinley home at Canton, O.

PLANS FOR PUBLIC COMFORT

HOW TO CARE FOR VISITING CROWDS

Matters Still in a Nebulous State, Although Much Thought and Discussion Has Been Bestowed Thereon.

The providing of accommodations for the convenience of the general public at the exposition is one of the things which has been receiving a great deal of attention at the hands of the executive committee for several months. This is a very large subject and one with many branches. With an average daily attendance of fully 40,000 people, which the most conservative admit is a low estimate, the accommodations of different kinds which must be provided must necessarily be calculated on a huge scale.

The most important consideration is water. With the warm weather which will unquestionably prevail during the greater part of the exposition season, thousands of gallons of drinking water will be consumed each day and arrangements will have to be made for having water tanks at every hand. Many people from abroad will decline to drink Missouri river water, notwithstanding it can be demonstrated that it is about the purest water to be had anywhere, but thousands will insist on having water from some of the well known mineral springs. At the World's fair water of this kind was sold at different points about the grounds in mechanial​ vendors, a penny in the slot producing a glass of the sparkling liquid from the tank imbedded in ice. Huge water tanks with ice in the water and others with ice surrounding the water receptacle abounded on every side. The lesson imparted by the state fair in Omaha in 18985 is an example of the effect of neglecting the water supply.

Another feature almost equally important is the providing of ample accommodations for eating. Several concessions have been let for eating places of various kinds, and two large restaurants will be in operation in the great buildings which are now being erected at the east end of the main viaduct on the bluff tract. There will be several restaurants on the Midway, but these will be very largely for the convenience of the employes of the concessions in which they are located. A restaurant will be located on Twentieth street just north of the Administration arch and another at some point in the main court to be determined upon. In the event of a great rush of people, however, these places would be literally swamped.

Arrangements have not yet been made for lavatories and closets and this is the feature which has been the subject of the greatest discussion on the part of the executive committee. The main discussion has been directed to the point of whether to provide these accommodations without charging a fee for their use, or to establish both pay and free accommodations. This matter has been discussed time after time and no conclusion reached, there being a decided difference of opinion in the committee. For that reason no work of preparation has yet been commenced, although a number of propositions have been before the committee for several months.

The care of the sick on the grounds is another matter whih​ comes under the classification of public comfort, but in this feature ample provision has been made. A hospital will be constructed on Twentieth street just north of the Administration arch, and this will be equipped with all modern conveniences and will be in charge of a corps of physicians. An ambulance of the most improved pattern has been purchased and is now in the city. A hospital corps will be organized and sick people will be well cared for.

Little progress has been made in the matter of boot black stands, the local artists in that line being imbued with the idea that there is very little profit in conducting a plant on the grounds.

MINNESOTA SELECTS ITS SPACE.

Commissioners Arrange for Exhibits and Secure a Building Site.

Minnesota will be creditably represented at the Transmississippi and International Exposition. The exposition authorities have had this assurance for some time. But the assurance was transformed into fact on the occasion of the visit of a portion of the commission of Minnesota to the exposition here yesterday.

In the party were: F. H. Peavey, vice president of the exposition commission of Minnesota; E. J. Phelps, J. Newton Nind and James Alan MacLeod, all of Minneapolis. They arrived in Omaha yesterday morning, spent nearly the entire day at the exposition grounds and returned to Minneapolis last evening at 6 o'clock. The party comprised three of the working members of the commission and the architect of the Minnesota state building at the exposition, Mr. MacLeod.

While at the exposition grounds the visitors selected space for the exhibits of Minnesota to the extent of nearly 8,000 square feet. This is exclusive of that which will be occupied by the state's own building. In the Agricultural building all the available space that was left unpromised was taken by the Minnesotans. It amount to about 1,000 square feet. In the building devoted to the Mining industries about 2,000 square feet was reserved. In the Dairy, Apiary and Horticultural buildings the Minnesota men were informed that they could have all the space they needed, and they expect to take advantage of this offer by making liberal displays in each of the buildings named.

The Minnesota state building will be one of the most attractive of the smaller buildings on the exposition grounds. A site for its location was definitely selected yesterday. It will stand on the bluff tract and will be just a little north and east of the handsome Horticultural building. The dimensions of the building are to be 60x100 feet. While not very large, the unique design selected will make it most inviting. The style of architecture is that of a Swiss cottage. Constructed entirely of Minnesota logs with their bark on, the exterior will present an appearance well calculated to remind one that Minnesota's chief industry lies in its lumber camps.

The building will be two stories in height. The plan of the first floor shows a large reception room, squarely in the middle, to be fitted up in modern clubhouse style, with all the attendant conveniences. To the right as one enters the reception hall will be the parlor for women, which will be tastefully furnished. The men's parlor will be to the left of the reception hall and will be equally inviting. It will be fitted up as a logging camp and its every detail will suggest life in the timber regions of Minnesota. On the second floor there will be the offices of the state commission to the exposition, the office of the secretary and the living quarters of the secretary, janitor and other attendants. Porches will surround the ground floor and balconies the second.

Architect MacLeod said to The Bee just before leaving for Minneapolis that work will be commenced on the state building as soon as the final drawings can be completed, which will be at an early date. He will make a half dozen trips here to supervise the work of construction and a regular superintendent will look after the work for the commission from the start of the building to its completion.

At a meeting of the commission recently in St. Paul it was decided that $25,000 will be required to make a creditable exhibit and erect a state building. After discussing several plans for raising this money it was decided that the quickest way would be to divide the amount to be raised among the several counties of the state according to the assessed valuation of the property in each county. The counties have been asked to carry out this plan and it is proposed to ask the legislature to reimburse them. Governor Clough and Lieutenant Governor Gibbs are taking an active interest in the matter of having the state well represented and are urging prompt action.

No attempt will be made to have an educational exhibit on account of the short time before the exposition will open, but it is announced that extensive exhibits in all lines of manufacture and agriculture will be made. The millers of Minneapolis will unite in making a large exhibit of their products. The State Agricultural society has offered the commission the large forestry exhibit belonging to the society and this will be installed in the state building.

The lumbermen, quarrymen and iron mine owners have been asked to contribute the material needed for the construction of the state building.

GUARDS FOR THE GROUNDS

KIRKENDALL MIGHT ENLIST AN ARMY

Thousands of Applications from All Sorts and Conditions of Men for Positions on Exposition Police Force.

The question of guards for the exposition is becoming a live issue and is causing Manager Kirkendall all kinds of trouble. The arrangement of a plan for guards and their appointment is a function of the Department of Buildings and Grounds, and this department has been made the target for applicants from every nook and corner of this broad land. If there is a square mile of territory within the confines of the United States which has not contributed an aspirant for a position in the Transmississippi guards it is because the spot is uninhabited.

Manager Kirkendall has thousands of applications from every conceivable class of people. A number are from army officers of the junior grades who are anxious to take charge of the force. Others are from civilians who have occupied positions as officers of the guard at other expositions and who are anxious to continue in the business. Others, again, are from men who are imbued with the idea that they were born to command and they want to practice upon the rank and file of the exposition forces. These latter usually have some great scheme to suggest and they estimate their monthly salary up in the hundreds. Applications from all of these sources have been pouring in for the last six months at the rate of forty or fifty per day, and a special file case has been constructed for filing them away.

The applications for positions in the ranks of the guards are received by the thousands. A large proportion of them are from men who have served in the same capacity in former expositions and they seem to like the business. Hundreds of applications have been received from soldiers in the regular army. Some of them say their time of enlistment will expire some time before June 1, and others say they can get leave of absence during the exposition. Large numbers have also been received from men holding positions as guards in penitentiaries. These men argue that their experience makes them familiar with criminals and, hence, they would be able to render valuable service.

COLLEGE BOYS ARE ANXIOUS.

By far the largest proportion of the applications, however, come from young men who are attending college in various parts of the country. These men are anxious to repeat the experience of many of their fellows at the World's fair and rub up against the world while absorbing information in large quantities by this contact and by what may be seen about the exposition grounds. The item of salary cuts very little figure with this class of applicants, few of them making any mention of the feature which seems uppermost in the minds of most of the other applicants. When the question of salary is touched upon by the college men, however, the figures quoted are invariably low, in some instances reaching the sum of $15 per month. Out of this sum they agree to provide such uniform as may be required and board themselves.

An application has been received from the battalion of cadets at the University of Nebraska, which contemplates furnishing as many guards as may be required. This is a pet project of Chancellor MacLean's, who is especially anxious to have his "boys" given this opportunity for acquiring experience with the world and information at the same time. He has appeared before the executive committee to urge that the guards be selected from among the cadets, urging as reasons for such action that the boys represent the entire middle west, there being students from nearly every portion of Nebraska and the adjoining states, and he also argues that the complete discipline of the cadets and their neat uniforms would make them most desirable in every respect, while their familiarity with the usages of polite society would enable them to act as guides and dispensers of information in a manner which would reflect credit upon the exposition management.

Manager Kirkendall has taken all these applications and arguments under consideration, and has been revolving in his mind a plan for settling the matter, but he says he has not yet reached a point where he is prepared to make any announcement of what he will do, although he will take decisive action within a short time. He will recommend the employment of about seventy-five men at first, and this force may have to be doubled as the crowds increase. The guards will be quartered on the grounds in a portion of the Service building, to be erected on Twentieth street, just north of the Administration arch, and will be required to be on the grounds at all times. Their tours of duty will be arranged in convenient shifts, but the entire force will be available at any time. The guards will be required to do police duty and act as guides in giving out information and showing visitors about the grounds.

MISSOURI EDUCATIONAL DISPLAY.

Superintendent Pope Says He Will Want Large Space.

E. B. Pope of St. Louis, state superintendent of schools of Missouri, is in the city as the guest of Superintendent Pearse of the Omaha schools. He visited exposition headquarters and the exposition grounds in company with Mr. Pearse, and was greatly interested in looking at the space which has been reserved for Missouri. When he learned that his state had reserved about 900 feet in the Liberal Arts building for an educational exhibit Mr. Pope declared that this space must be increased to at least 2,000 feet, as he intended to have an excellent educational display and could not possibly confine it to 900 feet. He said he would take this matter up with the Missouri commission as soon as he reached home and have the space increased. Mr. Pope stated that the Missouri exhibit, in the educational line, would include all lines of work, but would be especially strong in the kindergarten department. He said the schools were making elaborate preparations for the occasion and would make a fine showing.

Work in Colorado.

A letter from Secretary Macdonald announces that a meeting of the Colorado Exposition commission is scheduled for tonight, at which time the commission hopes to be able to make definite arrangements regarding space for the state. He says two weeks of valuable time were lost in trying to secure county appropriations, but that this plan has been abandoned on account of insurmountable legal obstacles and the various interests are asked to supply the exhibits and the funds.

Regarding the Denver commission Mr. Macdonald says that $3,500 of the $5,000 asked for has been raised and a systematic canvass of the city is being made for the balance.

Congress and Correspondence Coming.

Congressman D. H. Mercer writes to President Wattles regarding the projected special train from Washington to Omaha at the opening of the exposition, that the proposition has met with the most hearty reception at the hands of the Washington correspondents of the great metropolitan newspapers and the members of both houses of congress, all of whom will be invited to be of the party. "Dave" says that every newspaper representative and every member of congress would be greatly pleased to join the delegation and he urges the exposition management to carry out the proposed plan.

May Get Congregational Delegates.

There will be a meeting of the National Council of Congregational churches at Portland, Ore., July 8, and efforts are being made by President Wattles to induce the large numbers of delegates from the eastern states to stop in Omaha either going or returning from this meeting. A number of very prominent people usually attend these meetings and it is thought that a visit from them during the early stages of the exposition would result very favorably. Congressman Dingley of tariff fame is the moderator of the council, and Rev. H. A. Hazen of Auburn, Mass., is the secretary.

League of Republican Clubs.

L. J. Crawford of Newport, Ky., president of the National Republican league, has written to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he has prepared a circular letter to be sent to every member of the National league committee and to every president, vice president and secretary of every state league in the country urging them to co-operate with the Department of Publicity and Promotion in securing the largest possible attendance at the convention to be held in Omaha this summer. In closing, Mr. Crawford says: "I can assure you that the attendance will be large and I hope that we shall be able to make it the largest convention in the history of the league."

Interest in Arkansas.

Reports in the Arkansas papers indicate that great interest is being taken in all sections of that state in the matter of having a state building and exhibit at the exposition. A committee has been appointed to solicit material from the lumbermen and other building interests in the state for the erection of the state building and vice presidents have been appointed in each county to co-operate with the commission in raising funds for the necessary expenses.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Morris (Ill.) Floral company has applied for space on the bluff tract for beds of new bedding plants.

The Sunset Seed and Plant company of San Francisco, specialists in sweet peas, has applied for space on the bluff tract for large beds of these popular beauties.

An application has been received from L. G. Kellogg, president of the Wisconsin Horticultural society, for 500 feet of space in the Horticultural building for a fruit exhibit.

Achitect​ MacLeod of Minneapolis spent the day in consultation with Architect-in-Chief Kimball regarding the Minnesota building and they visited the grounds together to inspect the location selected for that structure.

The latest news from Massachusetts is to the effect that the outlook for a state building on the exposition grounds is very encouraging. Governor Wolcott has expressed a strong desire to have his state represented by a building and is working to bring that about.

TALK ABOUT INDIAN CONGRESS

Conference Held to Consider Details of the Project.

WASHINGTON, March 13.—(Special Telegram.)—An important conference, participated in by Mr. Rosewater, chairman of the Bureau of Publicity and Promotion; Assistant Commissioner of Indian Affairs Tonner, Major Larrabee, in charge of the executive branch of the bureau, and Major Powell, chief of the Bureau of Ethnology, was held this afternoon upon the proposed Indian congress at the Omaha exposition. Major Powell, who is greatly interested in the scope of the congress, is of the opinion that better results could be obtained if the groups of Indians were made up from the principal tribes, and that these groups would represent the whole life of that people, their tribal customs and their religious exercises and festivals, as well as their peculiar skill and workmanship under primitive conditions, included within. Mr. Tonner brought out the fact that the appropriation of $45,000 would have to include the cost of subsistence and some material which the Indians would need in the construction of villages and manufacture. With an assurance from the railroads that transportation charges of the Indians would be nominal, their number could be materially increased. Estimates of subsistence expense will be left to Captain W. H. Mercer of the Omaha agency, who will have general supervision of the Indian encampment. Captain Mercer is expected here this week. It was agreed between Major Powell and the representatives of the Indian bureau that there should be hearty co-operation in organizing and selecting groups and exhibits to accompany them.

Mr. Rosewater also had a conference with Director of the Mint Roberts as to the representation of the mints at Omaha, medals and souvenirs. Final arrangements will be perfected at Philadelphia tomorrow by Managers Lindsey and Rosewater for the exposition.

OREGON COMING TO THE FRONT

COMMISSIONER ARRANGES FOR SPACE

Henry E. Dosch of Portland Makes All Necessary Arrangements with the Managers and Tells of His Plans.

That Oregon is to be represented in a creditable and extensive manner at the exposition is assured beyond doubt. Henry E. Dosch of Portland, a member of the state commission recently appointed by the governor, is in Omaha with full plenipotentiary powers and he has decided that the state must be represented. After conferring with the exposition authorities he has reserved 8,000 feet of space in the several buildings for Oregon's exhibit.

Mr. Dosch will have full charge of the exhibit to be made by his state. He acted in the same capacity during the World's fair and when he was appointed a member of the Oregon commission recently he was selected as a committee of one to come to Omaha and determine whether the state should make an exhibit or remain out entirely. Before he had been in town twelve hours Mr. Dosch decided that Oregon must be represented.

"We will raise $20,000 for our exhibit," said Mr. Dosch positively. "I know where this amount can be obtained with very little effort on the certificate plan, the money to be refunded by the legislature. I will return home as soon as I have completed arrangements for our space and take up at once the work of preparing for our display. We will show minerals, lumber, agricultural and horticultural products, fish and probably a number of entries in fine arts. We will not undertake to erect a state building, as the time is now too short to carry out such a project in the manner we would desire, but by utilizing the mineral and forestry collections now in hand we will have an exhibit that will be a credit to our state and will compare favorably with that of any of the other states."

Mr. Dosch is a retired capitalist and his work in the matter in hand is one of philanthropy. Reports from Oregon are to the effect that he earned the confidence of the people by the manner in which he conducted the exhibit at the World's fair, returning $18,000 to the state treasury as a balance from an appropriation of $60,000.

The 8,000 feet of space reserved by Mr. Dosch for Oregon is divided as follows: Mines building, 2,000 feet; forestry exhibit, 2,000; Horticulture building, 1,500; educational exhibit, 1,000 feet; Agricultural building, 1,000; fish exhibit, 500 feet.

ART FOR THE NEBRASKA BUILDING.

Miss Butterfield Very Successful in Her Quest for Exhibits.

Miss Mellona Butterfield, superintendent of the art department of the Nebraska exposition commission, and the hostess of the Nebraska building, is making good progress in the work of collecting paintings and other works of art from the studios of Nebraska artists, which will be used in decorating the and beautifying the interior of Nebraska's handsome building. She has made a number of trips to the principal towns of the state and has been in communication with a number of well known Nebraska artists who are now living in other states. By this means she has secured a number of works which she says are of the most desirable quality and will stand comparison with the work which may be produced by any other state. Among the works already secured are these: Paintings by Miss Parker, art instructor of the University of Nebraska; paintings by Mrs. Paul Holm and Mrs. McKnight of Lincoln, ceramics by Mrs. Brock of Lincoln, paintings by Miss Almira Graves of Arborville, the winner of a medal in painting at Brownell hall; paintings by Miss Ethel Milestone, formerly of Omaha, now of Boston; paintings by Miss Leta Hornlacker, formerly of Hastings, now of New York; same from H. H. Bagg, art instructor at the Peru Normal school; Mrs. Tannie McLennan Hinman, formerly of Omaha, now of Chicago, will contribute paintings; Mrs. Emma Homan Thayer of Denver has promised to contribute one or two paintings; Miss Tanie Snowden and Albert Rothery of Omaha will also contribute paintings.

Miss Butterfield says the building will be tastefully and prettily decorated in a manner which will make it as attractive as possible. She has secured possession of the beautiful mantel which the women of Nebraska contributed to the decoration of the Nebraska building at the World's fair, and this will be installed in the building. This mantel is now at Pawnee City.

TRYING TO STIR UP KANSAS.

Major Clarkson on a Special Mission Among the Jayhawkers.

Major T. S. Clarkson is in Kansas arousing an interest among the people of that state in the idea of having an exhibit at the exposition. Several formal attempts have been made in this direction by numerous agents, but nothing has come of them. The major reports that he has addressed a large meeting of business men at Atchison and received a very cordial reception, the people manifesting an interest in the exposition matter and issuing a call for a general meeting of citizens to be held Thursday evening. Action was also taken to urge the governor to appoint a strong commission to begin active work. From Atchison Major Clarkson wrote that he would go to Leavenworth and Topeka and would have a personal interview with the governor to urge him to take hold of the matter before it is too late. The major also said that he would organize a party of prominent business men from Leavenworth, Atchison and Topeka to visit Omaha and acquire a little enthusiasm.

Notwithstanding the apparent apathy of the state at large, some of the counties of Kansas are taking the matter in their own hands and are making preparations to make county exhibits at the exposition, regardless of what the state may do. Washington county has made an appropriation for an exhibit and has sent a committee, consisting of Messrs. Scofield, Morrow and Vincent, to Omaha to make arrangements for space, etc. This committee is in the city and will confer with the exposition officials regarding the matter.

Exhibits from Massachusetts.

Special Commissioner F. T. Bickford writes from Massachusetts that exposition matters are in a very favorable condition in that state. The executive committee of the Associated Board of Trade held a special meeting recently and a resolution was adopted which was introduced by the representative of the New England Shoe and Leather association, urging upon the governor the importance of having the state well represented at the exposition. Mr. Bickford says this organization is composed of representatives of twenty-six of the commercial bodies of Boston and is one of the strongest trade organizations in the world. He says the president and secretary of the organization are most favorable to participation by the state and will urge the governor to take action. The project of a state building is making good progress and every indication is in favor of the Old Bay state being at the exposition in full force.

Tennessee to Take Part.

W. T. Davis, commissioner of education for Tennessee, and a member of the Exposition commission recently appointed by the governor of that state, has written to Superintendent Wadley of the Concessions department regarding arrangements for an exhibit. He says a meeting of the commission will be held at the state capitol very soon to organize for business and expresses the opinion that the state will make a strong showing. Mr. Wadley was connected with the Nashville exposition and is personally acquainted with many of the commission. He believes that influence can be brought to bear to induce the Tennessee commission to erect a state building on the grounds.

WIGWAM TO BE BUILT IN APRIL.

Committee Decides on the Construction of the Proposed Building.

The wigwam committee of the Transmississippi association is busily engaged in making arrangements for the beginning of the work of constructing the building. The report that will be submitted by the committee at the next meeting of the association will show that all the arrangements for active work of building have been completed and the purchase of material and engagement of workmen will be the next thing for consideration. The sentiment of members of the building committee and also of the association is against beginning the actual work of construction until about the middle of April. Until then work cannot be done to as good advantage on account of the weather. It is believed that the building can be erected and finished inside of a month from the time the start is made, which will give two weeks for the preparation of the exhibits and their installation. It has been definitely decided that the work will not be let to contractors, but will all be done under the supervision of the association, most likely directly under the watchful eye of President A. C. Graham who is especially well fitted for the place and will do the work of superintending free of charge. One skilled builder will be given direct charge of the men and will lay out their work for them and will see to it that the plans of the architects are followed and all work properly done.

Another thing is also assured and that is that none but Council Bluffs men and material will be used from the start to the finish. This sentiment was evidenced by the approval of a resolution that was introduced at the last meeting by Mayor Carson, which declared:

Whereas, Ample funds have been secured for the beginning of actual work of construction of the wigwam, therefore be it

Resolved, That the building committee of the association is hereby directed to proceed at once with the construction of the foundation and the first story of the building. That the committee is hereby instructed to construct said wigwam of material furnished by Council Bluffs people and that the superintending architects, foremen and mechanics be employed from the citizens of Council Bluffs. That all employes be paid the customary wages and contract to permit a discount of 5 to 10 per cent from their wages, to be applied toward the construction fund. That the Council Bluffs dealers be requested to furnish all material at wholesale rates and given a discount of 10 per cent to the building fund.

The resolution passed in a modified form, but all of the sentiments it expressed were approved. Many mechanics who have been consulted have expressed a willingness to contribute the percentage of their wages suggested in view of the fact that the work will be done in the beginning of the season. Wholesale dealers also express a willingness to furnish material at wholesale rates. The committee of fifty responsible for the undertaking are all busy business men, who have been contributing their time to the enterprise, and in addition each has paid his $10 assessment, and a number of them have given double the amount agreed upon.

There is no question but that the wigwam will be built in ample time for the arrangement of the exhibits before the opening of the exposition or that it will be the imposing structure that was at first planned.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING.

Possible Political Clash Averted by Rescinding Previous Action.

The executive committee of the exposition passed the following resolution at its meeting yesterday afternoon:

Whereas, Space has been granted on the Transmississippi and International Exposition grounds for the reproduction of the McKinley and Bryan homesteads and the privilege has been given to exhibit therein certain manufactured articles and souvenirs; and

Whereas, These privileges are liable to create political contention and strife which would not be in harmony with the great purposes of this exposition and which was not contemplated by the executive committee when these privileges were granted; therefore, be it

Resolved, by this committee, That its action in granting space for these buildings and the privilege of exhibiting therein be and is hereby rescinded and that the secretary be instructed to notify the applicants in both cases of this action.

Secretary Wakefield laid before the committee a letter from President W. H. Bell of the Central Labor Union, which was ordered filed with a number of similar communications on the same subject, to be taken up at the proper time. The body of the letter was as follows:

I am instructed to notify you and through you the Board of Directors of the Transmississippi and International Exposition of a resolution unanimously adopted by the Central Labor Union, declaring organized labor's unalterable opposition to the closing of the exposition gates on Sunday.

DESIGNER OF THE AMERICAN FLAG.

Elizabeth Ross, Who First Made Old Glory, to Be Remembered.

President Wattles is in receipt of a communication from the secretary of the Elizabeth Ross Monument association, with headquarters in Minneapolis. The name of this organization does not throw much light on the nature of the communication unless the reader is well versed in American history, but it may be stated that Elizabeth Ross, or "Betsy" Ross as she was generally known, was the designer and maker of the American flag as we now know it. The association bearing her name was organized for the purpose of erecting a monument to this noted character in history and the secretary of the association suggests that a "flag day" be made a feature of the program of the exposition and that appropriate exercises be held on that occasion. It is suggested that the town and exposition grounds should be buried in an avalanche of red, white and blue, and noted men from all sections of the country should be invited to participate in the program. The date suggested for this celebration is June 14, the anniversary of the adoption of the American flag. In case this suggestion is adopted the secretary writes that the association will make arrangements to exhibit the first American flag made by Betsy Ross and other relics of interest in the same connection.

The matter will be given prompt attention by President Wattles.

ARKANSAS WILL BE RIGHT IN IT.

Adopts Plan for State Building at the Exposition.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., March 14.—(Special Telegram.)—The executive committee of the state board of commissioners to the Omaha exposition met tonight and considered various plans submitted by architects for state building. Architect Gibbs' plans for the reproduction of the mansion built by General Albert Pike in 1843, now owned and occupied by Colonel John G. Fletcher, were adopted. This building is magnificent in architectural design, has 7,000 feet of floor space and will be a credit to Arkansas   and the exposition. George Sengel, president of the Fort Smith Board of Trade; George C. Harkness, secretary of the Little Rock Board of Trade, and W. D. Mathews, secretary of the state commission, were appointed a committee to visit St. Louis and other points to confer with railroads and wholesale dealers relative to assistance. Commissioner R. W. Richardson of Omaha closes a partial tour of the state tomorrow night and will leave for Omaha on Wednesday. It can now be said positively that Arkansas will make a creditable showing at Omaha.

WILL MAKE EXPOSITION RATES.

Omaha Roads Are Authorized to Dispose of the Question at Once.

CHICAGO, March 14.—For some time the western roads have been figuring upon the rates to be made for the Transmississippi Exposition to be held in Omaha. They have been desirous of making low rates, but have been waiting to see if congress would take any action regarding the exposition, as whatever it does would be likely to have considerable effect upon the attendance, and the roads would then be in a better position to make proper rates.

They have grown tired of waiting for congress to act and have referred the matter to the Omaha roads with the request that they take the matter up and dispose of it at the earliest opportunity. The Omaha roads will have the power of settling all the rates and arrangements for carrying the traffic to and from the exposition.

The same action has been taken in revelation to the annual convention of the Travelers' Protective association, which will meet in Omaha May 31.

MAKING THE EXPOSITION MEDALS.

Final Arrangements Are Completed at the Philadelphia Mint.

PHILADELPHIA, March 14.—Final arrangements were completed here today for the manufacture at the United States mint of the souvenir medals which will be used at the Transmississippi and International Exposition at Omaha, which will open in June. The party conferring with the mint authorities consisted of E. Rosewater, manager of the Department of Publicity and Promotion; Z. T. Lindsey, chairman of the executive committee; and F. T. Bickford, general eastern commisisoner​.

Revolutionary Societies' Plans.

A committee of the Nebraska society of the Sons of the American Revolution was present last night at the meeting of the Omaha chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution. J. H. Daniels, chairman of the committee for an exhibit at the Transmississippi Exposition, reported that the Nebraska society had elected a finance committee, composed of Rev. Luther Kuhns, Charles W. Hamilton, L. D. Richards, Miss Elenor Dutcher and Mrs. C. W. Lyman. The local committee appointed by the Sons society was L. P. Funkhouser, Charles S. Lobinger, Mrs. F. E. Hall, Mrs. E. D. Troup and Mrs. George C. Towle.

Hustling in Nevada.

Colonel H. B. Maxson of Reno, vice president of the exposition for Nevada, is breaking the record for exploiting the exposition in his territory. Every newspaper in the state is printing display advertisements, editorials and columns of reading matter at the request of the vice president, calling upon the people of every section to render all the assistance in their power and send exhibits to the point designated by Colonel Maxson. The colonel reports that great interest is being shown in all sections of the state, especially the eastern portion and a fine exhibit is assured.

Increases Montana's Space.

Vice President Sutherlin of Montana has increased the space for the Montana exhibit in the Mines building and now has 3,300 feet reserved. He also reserved 400 feet in the Horticulture building and 1,000 feet in the Liberal Arts building. The latter will be used for an educational exhibit which will be made by the Montana university. The contract for the Montana building has been let to Leo Bonet, the cost to be $8,000. The building will stand on the west side of the bluff tract, opposite Emmet street, being just west of the space reserved for the Iowa building.

Black Hills Will Come.

Last night the Department of Exhbiits​ received the following message:

DEADWOOD S. D., March 14.—Contradict statement in Bee. Our committees are at work. Black Hills will make an exhibit.

Mr. McKinney is vice president for South Dakota.

Life Saving Exhibit.

WASHINGTON, March 14.—(Special Telegram.)—Lieutenant McClellan, who has been in Omaha arranging for an exhibit of the life saving service, has returned and will submit his report tomorrow.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Battle Creek (Mich.), Steam Pump company has applied for 208 feet for an exhibit of steam pumps.

The Morris (Ill.) Floral company has applied for space on the bluff tract for beds of new bedding plants.

The Sunset Seed and Plant company of San Francisco, specialists in sweet peas, has applied for space on the bluff tract for large beds of these popular beauties.

An application has been received from L. G. Kellogg, president of the Wisconsin Horticultural society, for 500 feet of space in the Horticultural building for a fruit exhibit.

Architect MacLeod of Minneapolis spent the day in consultation with Architect-in-Chief Kimball regarding the Minnesota building and they visited the grounds together to inspect the location selected for that structure.

The latest news from Massachusetts is to the effect that the outlook for a state building on the exposition grounds is very encouraging. Governor Wolcott has expressed a strong desire to have his state represented by a building and is working to bring that about.

By inadvertence the name of E. B. Pope, western passenger agent of the Chesapeake & Ohio railroad, and that of J. B. Kirk, state superintendent of schools of Missouri, were mixed in the items concerning the Missouri educational exhibit that appeared in yesterday's Bee.

The executive committee of the Woman's Board of Managers will meet tomorrow for the Girls' and Boys' building. The plans and specifications will be laid before the committee by the architects and as soon as they are approved, active work on the construction of the building will be commenced.

The Minneapolis Republican Flambeau club desires to secure an engagement to appear at the exposition during the opening ceremonies and give a fireworks exhibition. A committee has written to President Wattles to ask what arrangements will be made for bringing to Omaha a drill team of forty men with all the paraphernalia for giving exhibitions.

MONEY FOR IOWA EXHIBIT

LOWER HOUSE PASSES APPROPRIATION

Thirty Thousand Dollars the Amount Carried—Decisive Vote Increases Its Chances in the Senate.

DES MOINES, Ia., March 16.—(Special Telegram.)—The house this morning passed the bill to appropriate $30,000 for Iowa's exhibit at the Transmississippi Exposition. There was a long discussion, the bill passing by a vote of 59 to 30. It is expected this will materially improve the measure's prospects in the senate, where it is weaker.

DOSCH RECOMMENDS A BUILDING.

Oregon Commissioner Enthusiastic Over the Exposition.

Mr. Henry Dosch of Portland, Ore., the representative of the Oregon Exposition commission, is still in the city, and his enthusiasm in the exposition is increasing with every hour of his stay. He is greatly pleased with the location secured for the Oregon building, being a pleasant site on the west side of the bluff tract, midway between Emmet and Lothrop streets. He says the Oregon building will be a rival of the Georgia Pine Palace and will be constructed with "hard oil finish" on the outside, while the interior will be elaborately decorated with every variety of wood that grows in Oregon.

Mr. Bosch learned that the people of Aroostock county, Maine, have applied for space in which to exhibit about seventy-five or 100 varieties of potatoes grown in that county, which make a specialty of growing the tubers. "We will beat them all to pieces on potatoes," exclaimed Mr. Dosch. "At the World's fair we showed 265 varieties of potatoes, all grown in Oregon, and I guess if we set out to do it we could find another hundred or two. We are going to make a showing that will open the eyes of eastern people and make them think, what is a fact, that Oregon is the best substitute for Paradise that can be found in this world."

After visiting the exposition grounds yesterday afternoon Mr. Dosch, the Oregon commissioner, was very enthusiastic regarding the participation of his state in the exposition and declared most emphatically that he would urge his people to erect a state building on the grounds.

"I am going to recommend and insist that we put up a building to be used as headquarters on the grounds," said Mr. Dosch. "We can build it of wood, inside and outside, and make a structure which will be very attractive besides being a splendid advertisement for our lumber resources. In addition to the $20,000 which will be required for an exhibit we will require about $5,000 for our building and I believe we can raise the entire amount without any difficulty."

"I can hardly express my surprise at the beauty and grandeur of your exposition," continued Mr. Dosch. "I expected to see a good showing but I was surprised beyond measure at the magnitude and magnificence of the grounds and buildings. Your buildings are beautiful and the arrangement of the grounds are all that could be desired, but I am a horticultural crank and I am convinced that your Horticulture building is entirely too small. Why! I could fill one quarter of it with a display from our state. We raise everything in the fruit line except citrous fruits and we have a reputation to sustain. We took all the medals on apples, grapes and cherries at the World's fair and we will make a big showing in all kinds of fruits this summer.

"I am especially anxious to have our state represented by a headquarters building. After seeing the fine locations you have for state buildings and the great showing which is being made by other states in that direction I want our state to be in line and I believe it can be accomplished without difficulty. I think our big lumbermen will donate the wood and we will have as fine a building as there will be on the bluff tract. My plan is to have a building about 40x60 feet on the ground, two stories high and fitted with rooms for offices and parlors for our people. A veranda twenty feet in width should surround the whole building for shade and then we would have a place where our people could make their headquarters when they come to the exposition. I am going to turn my attention to this matter when I reach home and I believe it can be brought about."

REHEARSAL OF THE CHORUS.

Director Kelly Announces that Lists Will Close Next Week.

The regular weekly meeting of the Exposition chorus was held last night in the large room on the top floor of the city hall. This was the first meeting in these quarters and the change was a most agreeable one. The high ceiling and large area of this room made the work of the chorus much more satisfactory and the effect was noticeable in the results produced. Charles Gounod's beautiful work, "By Babylon's Wave," was the first thing taken up and the drill on this rather difficult number was productive of excellent results. The "Easter Hymn" from Mascagni's "Cavalleria Rusticana," was also put in rehearsal and good progress was made on it.

Prof. Edward Dworzak has been appointed accompanist for the chorus and assumed charge of the piano last night. The careful and conscientious manner in which he performed this thankless task was a great assistance to the singers.

Director Kelly announced that at all rehearsals hereafter no one not a member of the chorus will be allowed to sing and no persons will be admitted to the rehearsal except the members of the chorus or those acting as escorts for the female members. He also announced that the lists will be closed at the next meeting and no further members will be admitted.

The membership of the chorus has increased at each meeting, about a dozen new voices being added last night and the maximum number of 200 has been almost reached.

Building Walks and Drives.

The making of macadam roadways on the bluff tract is making rapid progress. The frost is entirely out of the ground and the big twelve-ton steam road roller packs the earth in the roadway until it is firm and the same process is followed with the four inches of broken stone and the inch and one-half of gravel which is used for a top dressing. By the end of next week the walks and drives on the bluff tract will have been entirely finished.

The brick selected for the walks in the main court are pressed brick of a dark cream color, made in Omaha. They will be laid in three inches of sand and the greatest care will be taken to make walks of exceptional excellence. This work is in progress, but the ground in the main court is not entirely free from frost and moisture and the work is proceeding rather slowly.

Tearing Down the Amphitheater.

The grandstand which faced the race track on the old fair grounds will soon be a thing of the past, although a section of it will remain to remind old-timers of the exciting events which have been witnessed from its uncomfortable seats. The west half of the structure has been moved north a short distance and will serve for the wild west show which will occupy a place on the West Midway. The east half is being torn down and hauled away.

Pleases Mr. Crowley.

Special Agent J. J. Crowley of the Treasury department at Washington is in Council Bluffs to testify before the grand jury against Whittlesey, the defaulting customs official. Mr. Crowley paid a visit to the exposition grounds and was considerably impressed with the magnitude of the coming show as indicated by the buildings.

"I have attended all the expositions held in this country during recent years," he said, "and I must say that the coming exposition here promises to be bigger than any except the World's fair. It will certainly be superior to those held at Nashville and Atlanta. The buildings are larger and more impressive and handsome in every way."

Insists on 6,000 Feet.

Wesley Stewart of Sturgis, S. D., made a flying trip to Omaha yesterday afternoon in the interest of the exhibit to be made by the Black Hills district. He assured the officials of the Exhibits department that the Black Hills will make a fine exhibit, especially in minerals and asked that the 6,000 feet of space which has been reserved for that section be held a little longer until the requirements of the exposition can be complied with. He was given until March 20 to comply with the conditions and promised that defensive action will be taken before that time.

Interest in Teachers' Convention.

There was a full attendance at the meeting of the executive committee of the Transmississippi Teachers association yesterday afternoon. Acceptances of invitations to take part in the meeting that is being planned for this city during the exposition were received from Hon. E. Benjamin Andrews, president of Brown University, and Hon. J. Sterling Morton of Nebraska City. Official badges were decided upon and contributions towards the expense of the meeting were received from several counties in this state.

Notes of the Exposition.

Work has been commenced on the Pabst pavilion on the West Midway.

The Concessionaires' club house, a restaurant on the north tract, where meals will be served to employes, is making good progress.

J. E. Lee, one of Louisiana's commissioners, writes that the department of Publicity and Promotion that his state will have a most complete and representative exhibit at the exposition.

Piles are being driven for the Transportation and Agricultural Implement building. Contractor Goldie says work will be pushed on this big building and it will be finished in about thirty days.

Val. Blatz, the Milwaukee brewer, is in the city with his architect to make arrangements for a handsome pavilion which will be erected in the Manufactures building for the large exhibit he will make of his goods.

A meeting of the Board of Fire and Police commissioners with managers Babcock, Reed and Kirkendall, President Wattles and Secretary Wakefield discussed the policing and fire patrol of the exposition grounds last night.

The east end of the lagoon has been drained to enable the gas company to lay a gas main across it along Twentieth street. The water will not be turned on again until the bridges at Twentieth street have been constructed.

The tall iron smokestacks are being hoisted into position above the boilers of the Power building. The boilers are of the upright class, standing about forty feet in height, and the stacks are ninety feet long, making the total height of the stack, in position, about 130 feet above the street.

URGE PURCHASE OF STATUARY

FORCES UNITE AGAINST COMMISSIONERS

Executive Committee, Park Commission and Women's Board Press the County Representatives to Reconsider Action.

The members of the exposition executive committee, each and every member of the executive committee of the Woman's Board of Managers and members of the Board of Park Commissioners are expressing the greatest disappointment at the announcement that the Board of County Commissioners will refuse to co-operate with the exposition management and the park board in securing for the decoration of the exposition and as a bequest to the public parks the lot of permanent statuary which the exposition desires to purchase from Captain Edward Kemeys, the well known sculptor of Indians and wild animals. The proposition as made by Captain Kemeys, through a representative who has been on the ground for some time, is to design an original group, in the size known as semi-heroic, showing an half-naked Indian astride his pony in the act of administering the death blow to a buffalo. In addition to this he proposes to furnish eight single figures of wild animals, life size, the exposition management to have the right to select the animals, the only provision being that they shall be of a distinctively western type. All of these figures are to be of cement on an iron frame, the material being treated by a patented process which is guaranteed to make it permanent in its character. For this work the sculptor asks $15,000 and the exposition management asked the park board and the county commissioners to co-operate with it, each contributing $5,000 toward the purchase, with the provision that the statuary is to become the property of the city after the exposition for the decoration of the city parks.

President Wattles of the exposition and Park Commissioner H. E. Palmer were discussing the status of this matter in the office of the former and both expressed the greatest regret at the report that the county commissioners would refuse to co-operate in the matter.

MOST REASONABLE PROPOSITION.

"If the county refuses to act with the exposition and park board in this matter," said President Wattles, "it means that the exposition grounds will not be embellished with any statuary. We have been trying to devise ways and means for securing some kind of statuary ever since the exposition was started and have been unable to see any way to do it, but this proposition promised to put an end to our troubles in that line. We have been investigating the statuary question for some time and have learned enough about it to know that this proposition is a most reasonable one and to the advantage of the exposition to accept, but we have not seen our way clear to devote $15,000 to that purpose. After going to great expense to erect beautiful buildings and laying out magnificent grounds, if we do not have statuary to add the finishing touch it will be like giving a man a fine suit of clothes and sending him out in the street without any hat. Statuary is absolutely essential to the carrying out of our plans, but we have not the money to pay for it. We have asked the park board and the county to help us out of this dilemma and we feel justified in saying that this proposition is the best that we can expect to receive."

"I feel very much disappointed about the matter," said Captain Palmer. "The board was well satisfied with the proposition and we are especially anxious to secure the Indian and buffalo for Jefferson square. We believe it will be the handsomest and best ornament for that park that could possibly be secured and would soon become a landmark. I hope the commissioners will not pass the resolution that has been introduced, but will help us to get this statuary for our parks.

PROPRIETY BEYOND QUESTION.

"Statuary is a thing you can't put a fixed value on," continued the captain. "Kemeys is one of the most celebrated sculptors of wild animals and Indians in the country and what could be more appropriate than a statue of an Indian and buffalo in Omaha, the recognized center of the Indian country in the olden days. The only question our board has had in the matter has been the permanency of this material, but I am informed that there are statues in Europe made of the same material which have been in existence hundreds of years, and a recent issue of one of the principal scientific papers published in this country contained an article regarding a gigantic statue of this kind which was erected about 300 years ago and which is still standing. If it lasts as long as that I believe we will get out money's worth."

The executive committee of the Woman's board spent considerable time at its regular weekly meeting discussing this statuary question. They had a material interest in the matter, as this committee first agitated the matter of securing several pieces of statuary for the exposition grounds with a view of having them placed in the parks afterward and the progress of the matter has been watched with a great deal of interest. After discussing the matter at length the women formulated a letter to the Board of County Commissioners, urging that body to join the exposition management and the Board of Park Commissioners in purchasing the statuary and giving several reasons why this should be done. Among the reasons were these: "We consider the present an unusual opportunity for securing such valuable and permanent decoration. The far-reaching educational value, both as an exhibit of high art for the exposition and as a perpetual legacy to our community we deem of very great importance. We believe these works of art will be a most fitting souvenir of the great exposition and that the large body of intelligent citizens will commend the wisdom and generosity of the men who provided them; and that the appreciation of all classes of reflect honor upon those who secured them."

This letter was signed by each individual member of the executive committee and transmitted to the county commissioners.

KANSAS MEN VISIT THE GROUNDS.

Leavenworth Citizens Seeing What is Prepared for the Exposition.

A strong delegation of Leavenworth business me​ accompanied Major T. S. Clarkson of the exposition executive department on his return from a trip to Kansas to arouse the interest of the people of that state in the matter of state representation at the exposition. The committee consisted of Mayor John D. Edmond, Edward E. Coombs, general manager of the Leavenworth Street Railway company; E. G. Krezdorn, former county attorney; Louis Latte, editor of the Leavenworth Tribune, and George P. Rothschild, a prominent merchant of Leavenworth.

The party was escorted to the exposition grounds by Major Clarkson, and then went to the Millard hotel for luncheon, after which the various exposition officers were visited and a large amount of information acquired regarding the exposition. The visitors, with the exception of Mr. Coombs, returned home this afternoon.

The visit to the grounds was a great surprise to the Leavenworth delegation. Mayor Edmond spoke for the committee, saying: "We expected to see something fine, after hearing Major Clarkson talk so much about it, but we were simply overwhelmed by the preparations which are being made. We will stir our people vigorously when we return and there is no doubt but Kansas will be well represented by exhibits, and all of our people will visit Omaha during the summer."

Major Clarkson reports that this mission was very successful. He had a long interview with Governor Leedy and the latter agreed to do all in his power to help the matter along. He said he would appoint a strong commission at once and would ask the next legislature to reimburse any subscriber who will assist in raising the $15,000 which must be raised to make the $15,000 raised by the railroads available. Major Clarkson says this latter promise on the part of the governor was all that was necessary to insure the raising of the money and that it will be on hand within a very short time. The governor has been urged to appoint his commission at once and to call a meeting of that body at Omaha in the near future so that the commissioners may see for themselves whether the exposition is all that it has been represented to be.

PREPARES FOR AQUATIC PLANTS.

Beautiful Feature of the Bluff Tract Being Arranged.

Henry A. Dreer of Philadelphia, the leading propagator of aquatic plants in this country, is beginning his arrangements for furnishing the aquatic basins, which will be a prominent and very beautiful feature of the floral decoration of the bluff tract. There will be three of these basins just north of the Horticulture building, directly in the center of the bluff tract. The middle basin will be eighty feet in diameter, and at the east and west sides will be smaller basins, each twenty-five feet in diameter. The large basin has been excavated and the planting of this will be commenced at once. The bottom will be puddled and covered with sand to the depth of several inches. On this frames will be set and the entire basin will be planted with many varieties of beautiful water lilies. In a short time the broad green leaves will appear and float on the surface of the water, and about the latter part of June the flowers will begin to appear. These will present a great variety of colors, and their fragrance will scent the air for a considerable distance on every side.

The side basins, however, will be the greatest attraction to lovers of the beautiful. These basins will be cemented and supplied with heating apparatus to maintain the water at a temperature of 80 degrees at all times. In each of these basins will be planted one specimen of the beautiful Victoria Regia, one of the finest varieties of water lilies in cultivation. One plant of this immense variety will fill one of these basins. Its broad, flat leaves, two or three feet in diameter with upturned edges, float on the water and between the leaves will appear the huge flower, fully a foot in diameter and of surpassing beauty.

These "plants" are started in a greenhouse and put in the basin after the weather is sufficiently warm.

ACCOMMODATIONS FOR MILITIA.

What the Exposition Will Offer to the Visiting Guardsmen.

President Wattles has commenced active operations toward securing a militia encampment for Omaha during the summer and has completed arrangements by which military organizations desiring to come to the exposition will be provided with accommodations such as their necessities require.

At the meeting of the executive committee yesterday the president was authorized to make arrangements to provide suitable camp grounds for such of these organizations as desires to come, a large number of troops from different states having already made inquiry regarding the accommodations which will be furnished by the exposition. The president recommended that these accommodations be provided: Camp grounds, lights for the streets in the encampment, water, sanitary conveniences, tents with temporary board floors, provided tents can be secured from the government without cost; straw for tents; one free admission for each member of the organization who accompanies it.

These accommodations are substantialy​ the same as have been provided by former expositions, and it is expected that the inducements thus offered will result in gathering at Omaha a large force of militia. The only return asked of the troops is that they shall participate in any parades which may occur during their stay. A proper camping ground will be provided in the neighborhood of the exposition grounds.

NATIONAL FIREMEN'S TOURNAMENT.

President Wattles and Chief Redell Plan One for Omaha.

Arrangements have been made by which the tournament of the National Fremen's​ association will be held in Omaha during the summer. The entire matter has been turned over to President Wattles and Chief Redell of the Omaha fire department, and they have made arrangements by which an enclosed space of sufficient size for the exhibitions will be provided. This space lies north of the Missouri Pacific railway tracks and south of Ames avenue, between Twentieth and Twenty-fourth streets, being now enclosed by the exposition fence. On this space will   be created a suitable building for storing apparatus and other property of the firemen and another building which will be used for exhibition drills and for an actual fire. Plenty of water will be provided.

Chief Redell is most enthusiastic over the possibilities of this tournament. The last national tournament of firemen was held in Chicago about twenty years ago and was attended by over 25,000 people, there being nearly 15,000 firemen in the parade. He predicts that on this occasion there will be fully 50,000 people in attendance.

A committee will arrange for purses which will be offered for the several contests. There will be $20,000 offered in prizes.

Bids for Sodding Grounds.

Bids for furnishing 20,000 yards of sod for the main court were received at the office of the Department of Buildings and Grounds. Four bids were received and the amount desired will be divided among the bidders in order to make sure that the desired quantity will be supplied quickly. It is expected that the grass seed sown on the bluff tract will supply the green covering for that portion of the grounds.

SETTLES ON THE GROUNDS

LEASE MADE FOR AMES AVENUE TRACT

Ideal Place for Base Ball—Plenty of Room to Line 'Em Out—Street Cars Run Right to the Gates.

The location of the base ball park has been settled at last and anyone who wants to see the Omaha club of 1898 play ball will find it at Twenty-fifth street and Ames avenue. The lease for these grounds was signed by Manager O'Brien yesterday afternoon and the task of converting the site into a first class ball park will begin at once. They will be ready for the use of the team in practice by April 1 and the grand stand and other improvements will be completed soon after.

The new grounds constitute an ideal base ball site, aside from the fact that they are a little further from the business district than those previously occupied. Manager O'Brien has waited until as late as possible in the hope of being able to secure the University grounds, but it has been impossible to reconcile the numerous interests involved in that site, and it was finally decided that the Ames avenue grounds were next in point of merit. The new location will afford the most commodious and naturally adapted park that the city has ever had, and when the improvements are completed the city will have one of the finest ball parks in the country. The grounds will by 620x675 feet, thus affording ample room for fast fielding and also a commodious quarter stretch for the use of carriages. Very little grading will be necessary and a very little rolling and scraping will put the grounds in admirable condition. Manager O'Brien will put a force of men at work at once to build the fence and the other improvements will follow rapidly.

While the new grounds are about five minutes' ride further north than the University grounds, they are really almost as easy of access. The additional riding time is very nearly offset by the fact that both the Sherman Avenue and cross-town lines will deposit patrons right at the gates, while it would be necessary to walk from two to four blocks to reach the University grounds from any of the motor lines. While the latter was the first choice of the management as well as of most of the patrons of the game it is believed that the new location will be satisfactory. Everyone who has been out to examine the site is enthusiastic over it and the big park will be most acceptable after seeing the game played in cooped-up grounds for two or three years. The man who hits the ball over the fence at the Ames avenue park can get $100 of the manager's money and the people who like to see the sharp fielding of long hits will be fully accommodated. When all the advantages of the location are considered it is not unlikely that the public will be more than pleased with it as soon as it becomes accustomed to the change.

President Frank Murphy of the Street Railway company has tacitly assured the management that the Twenty-fourth street line will be extended to Ames avenue and with this improvement the facilities for reaching the grounds will be better than those that are enjoyed by any other city in the league except Detroit.

Manager O'Brien is making arrangements to begin the transformation of the grounds at Twenty-fifth street and Ames avenue into a base ball park and before the end of the week a gang of men will be at work building the fence and grading the diamond. The fence will be built of matched lumber, to the probable consternation of the small boys who cherish happy anticipations of spending sunny afternoons with first one eye and then the other glued to a crack. The plans for the grand stand will be completed today and this feature of the work will be pushed along with the rest.

LUTHERANS AND SUNDAY OPENING.

Position of Two Divines on the Question Given.

Rev. Luther M. Kuhns of Omaha writes to the Lutheran Observer, the organ of the "General Synod" Lutherans, as follows:

The Transmississippi Exposition is to be held in Omaha from June to November. The Ministerial union of Omaha has been exerting itself to secure the closing of the gates of the exposition on Sunday. A committee of the Ministerial union was appointed to wait upon the directory of the exposition, if possible, to secure this, and another committee was appointed to secure the co-operation of the presbyteries, synod and conferences, and the support of the various young people's organizations in this effort. The various denominations and young people's societies have endorsed the effort of the Ministerial union to secure Sunday closing.

At the last regular monthly meeting of the Ministerial union the committee to wait upon the directorate of the exposition reported that "the executive committee of the exposition directory declines to confer at the present time with the committee in regard to this matter." Upon recommendation of the committee the Ministerial union declared itself opposed to Sunday opening of the exposition.

The Jewish rabbi and the Unitarian minister of this city have expressed themselves as favorable to Sunday opening. Besides these, the following letter from the pastor of one of the Missouri Lutheran churches of the city will be of sad interest to General Synod Lutherans:

(Here follows the letter of Rev. J. S. Her, commenting on the sermon of Rev. Howard McAyeal, published in The Bee of February 7.)

Commenting on the above the Lutheran Witness, organ of the "Missouri" Lutherans, has the following to say:

Above communication has furnished the editor of the Lutheran Observer the material for an editorial on "Sabbath Desecration." We submit, in all kindness, (1) that Rev. Her is far from teaching, or inviting, the desecration of the Christian Sunday; for he himself states reasons why the closing of the exposition to be held at Omaha next summer might be desirable. (2) Rev. Her appeals to scripture and confession; with scripture and confession he should be met. (3) Rev. Her places himself on the sound basis of a well known scriptural and political principle, that of the separation of church and state. It should be shown that this principle does not apply in the case in question. Expressions of grief and pious exclamations will avail nothing with a conscience bound by the word. Rev. Her makes the impression of a conscientious person. We have always found that such persons can be easily brought to see an error and acknowledge it. Truly, after the Observer has gone so far in the matter, Rev. Her would seem entitled to further consideration. Will the Observer undertake the argument against the position of Rev. Her?

RATES FOR EXPOSITION TRAVEL.

Local Passenger Men Have the Matter in Hand.

There is some prospect that the matter of providing reduced rates for the Transmississippi Exposition will soon be taken up by the general passenger agents of western lines. The matter is now in the hands of a sub-committee of passenger agents of local lines. The general committee met about four months ago to discuss the work of securing reduced rates for the exposition. The matter was at that time referred to a subcommittee, consisting of E. L. Lomax, general passenger agent of the Union Pacific, and John Francis, general passenger agent of the B. & M. The sub-committee has not yet made its report to the general committee.

The other lines in the Western Passenger association, as well as the passenger associations in other parts of the country, are waiting for the local committee to make its report before taking any action in the matter. At a recent meeting of western lines in Chicago it was agreed that whatever rates should be recommended by the general passenger agents of the lines entering this city should be accepted and participated in by the other lines. A little over two months will intervene before the opening of the exposition. The World's fair did not secure the advantages of cheap rates to Chicago until the fair was well advanced. This was due to the tardiness of lines there agreeing on reduced rates.

Working for the Exposition.

WEST POINT, Neb., March 16.—(Special.)—In the matter of subscriptions in aid of the construction of the Boys' and Girls' building at the Transmississippi Exposition Cuming county leads all the counties in the transmississippi country. Contributions have been made by men and women in every station of life, from the richest to the poorest. Much credit is due to Mrs. D. C. Giffert's untiring efforts in behalf of the exposition in this county. In addition to large sums of money given, Cuming county citizens have purchased 600 copies of the Hatchet and have in other ways contributed to the exposition funds.

OPPOSE THE STATUARY PLAN

COMMISSIONERS EXPRESS THEIR OPINIONS

Will Not Vote to Assist the Park Board in Acquiring Permanent Groups for the Exposition and Parks.

There is nothing to indicate that the members of the Board of County Commissioners will change their minds and vote to appropriate the sum of $5,000 to be used in the purchase of nine pieces of statuary for the exposition grounds. While they have not formally rejected the request, they have offered a resolution, which has been referred to the committee of the whole for consideration. This resolution is in the nature of a rejection, and if its adoption is rejected by the committee, the whole matter will thus be disposed of.

"In the interest of economy," said Commissioner Ostrom, "I don't see how we can appropriate the sum of $5,000, or any other amount, to buy statuary to be placed on the exposition grounds. Aside from the question of costs, there are several other reasons why we should not vote $5,000 to assist in buying these figures. In the first place, they are purely park attractions, and if the members of the Board of Park Commissioners want them, let them pay for them out of their funds. We have quite an amount of exposition money on hand, but we are going to need about all of it in preparing our county exhibit and maintaining it during the exposition. After the fruit and vegetable season opens, we will have to replace the exhibits at least once each week. This cannot be done for nothing. In addition to this, we have got to help in maintaining police regulations on the ground by paying our proportion of the salary of the guards.

"If the exposition people are so anxious for the statuary, as it has been intimated that they are, why don't they appropriate $10,000 and let us pay an aditional​ $5,000 for the maintenance of the big show? I don't think that I shall vote to appropriate money for statuary."

Speaking of the proposition to buy statuary, Commissioner Harte said: "It is too much money. They are making figures and groups of figures for the purpose of ornamenting the buildings on the exposition grounds, and they are not paying anything like what is asked for these nine pieces that it is proposed to sell us. If the price was anything within reason, I might vote for an appropriation. At this time I can't see how I can agree to put one-third of $15,000 into nine pieces of cement. It's too much money."

Chairman Kierstead said: "Unless I change my mind, and at this time I can't see any reason for so doing, I shall vote against the proposition to buy this statuary. I want to be liberal, but I don't think that we should pay any man the profit that this party who makes the statuary wants."

Commissioner Hofeldt said: "Statuary is pretty and it is attractive, but I don't see how I can be a party to paying $15,000 for nine pieces that can be made in a month and at a cost of not more than $500."

Commissioner Hocter said: "We are willing to help the exposition with all of the proceeds of the $100,000 of bonds, but we want to put the money where it will do the most good. We want to advertise the state and the county and I think that the best way to do so is to make an exhibit of the resources of this locality. If we can have more money than we need, we can turn it over to be used in helping to pay the actual expenses of the exposition. If the exposition management wants the statuary, why don't it go on and buy it. It has done so in other instances."

"WINGED VICTORY" TO BE SHOWN.

French Government Allows a Copy of the Famous Statue to Be Made.

One of the prominent features of the statuary display in the Art building will be a full size copy of one of the most famous statues in existence, the Winged Victory of Samothrace. The French commissioner for the exposition, Frederick Mayer of Paris, notifies the exposition authorities that he has secured a special concession from the French government which will allow a copy of this famous work to be made for the exposition, and he reported that the figure could be made for 1,175 francs. The matter was laid before the executive committee and Manager Bruce was authorized to accept the proposition. He cabled Mr. Mayer to close the bargain and ship the statue as soon as possible. Chairman Paul Charlton of the art committee hopes to make arrangements to keep this very desirable work of art in Omaha after the exposition closes, but one offer has already been made by a museum in another city to take the state for $200, and the contest promises to develop some sharp competition.

The Winged Victory is one of the most famous ancient statues which has ever been discovered. It was unearthed in the valley of Samothrace in 1867 by a representative of the French government. It was in fragments and was removed to the Louvre and put together. About eight years later the gigantic pedestal was discovered and this was also removed to the Louvre, where pedestal and figure were restored to their original positions as far as possible. The pedestal represents the stony prow of a galley, below which sea waves are represented by sculpture. The colossal figure, more than double life size, towers above this massive and lofty hulk. The statue is badly mutilated, but it shows a fully draped female figure which has alighted on the prow of a ship, sweeping down with lightning speed, the powerful form, with rushing drapery, seeming to force a way for this imposing goddess of victory. The dainty wings of the goddess are extended and might and power are delineated in every line of the figure and drapery. The figure is of Parian marble, and the exquisite nicety with which every detail is worked out marks this as one of the most remarkable examples of the great genius of the Hellenic sculptors which has ever been discovered. Careful calculations by antiquarians places the origin of this figure in the third century, B. C.

CLASSIFYING HIS MANY EXHIBITS.

Superintendent Taylor Working on a Big Contract.

Superintendent Taylor of the Bureau of Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry and Irrigation is engaged in classifying the many exhibits which belong in this department and arranging for the location of the displays. He has decided to locate the forestry display in the big Transportation and Agricultural Implement building which is being erected on the north tract, as this is the only building where a sufficient space can be secured without interfering with other exhibits. The Oregon exhibit, according to Mr. Dosch of Portland, who was here early in the week, will include one "stick" sixty feet in length and five feet square, intended to show the size of the lumber obtainable in that prolific section of the universe. To accommodate such large exhibits will require a great deal of open space and this can only be obtained in the building referred to. There are a number of applications from other states which desire to make forestry exhibits and these will all be placed in this same building.

Date for Special Stamps.

The announcement that the special exposition postage stamps will be issued about May 15 is a source of great gratification to the exposition management and especially to the Department of Publicity and Promotion. Orders have been received for several hundred thousand of these stamps from large mercantile establishments and the department has received many inquiries regarding the probable time of issue.

TROOPS COMING TO OMAHA

ORDER TO BE ISSUED IN NEAR FUTURE

Soldiers in Department of the Missouri to Rendezvous in Nebraska's Metropolis the Coming Summer.

WASHINGTON, March 18.—(Special Telegram.)—Today it was given out at the War department that Adjutant General Corbin would shortly issue an order directing the troops in the Department of the Missouri, formerly the Department of the Platte, to rendezvous at Omaha during the summer. This order will bring to the Gate City thousands of people in addition to the soldiers and will prove one of the drawing cards of the exposition. Mr. Rosewater has been especially interested in this cantonment and as the Department of the Missouri includes some of the crack government troops, their assemblage at Omaha will be appreciated by all lovers of the army.

Manager Rosewater of the Department of Publicity and Promotion of the Omaha Exposition was greatly elated today on account of the great amount of work he had accomplished while but a day in Washington, having arrived from New York this morning. Everything is working splendidly in behalf of the Indian congress project. He held a conference with Captain W. H. Mercer, agent of the Omaha and Winnebago Indians, who will have charge of the encampment; Assistant Commissioner of Indian Affairs Tonner and Colonel Larrabee, and ascertained that the Indian department was actively at work arranging details for this great ethnological event. Secretary Bliss of the Interior department was also seen and while emphatically stating that the amount expended would have to be within the appropriation, he went so far as to say the department would issue rations to those Indians who would be entitled to rations on the reservation. This concession was greatly appreciated, as the decision will permit of many more Indians.

Mr. Rosewater also secured an immense concession from the Navy department, in that it has agreed to permit the Marine band to go to Omaha, providing proper inducements are made to the men. The Fort Omaha military reservation will be turned over to the Omaha Exposition management during the months beginning June and ending November. The order has heretofore been issued allowing the use of the grounds for the exposition, but within a short time a new proposition will issue directing that the Omaha Exposition authorities take care of the garrison and be allowed the use of the buildings. A number of persons have been trying to get hold of the buildings for a fair, but Secretary Alger thought it best for the Omaha Exposition to have the use of the buildings and the order will issue at once. It is expected that the transmississippi stamps will be issued by May 15.

Bureau of Public Comfort.

The Bureau of Public Comfort has not yet commenced active operations in the work assigned to it. An office has been opened on the sixth floor of the Paxton block, but Chairman Dudley Smith says he will not commence active operations until about May 1. He believes that a great many people will change their residence before that time and that a canvass made now would be of little value for that reason. About May 1 he says he will put on a force of canvassers and make a house-to-house canvass of the entire city, obtaining all particulars regarding location, name, number of rooms to rent, number of meals which will be furnished, rates and all the other data which will be required to properly inform strangers in the city regarding lodging and board.

In the meantime Mr. Smith is compiling a list of the hotels in the city, the number of rooms available, rates, etc., and writing to the officials who had charge of public comfort departments of other expositions regarding the methods pursued by them, with a view to profiting by their experience.

Notes of the Exposition.

Manager Lindsey telegraphed to exposition headquarters yesterday from New York that Lawrence Minot, the representative of the estate which owns the Union National bank building, had subscribed $500 to the exposition.

The concession for selling popcorn and peanuts on the exposition grounds was let to the Out of Sight company of Chicago by the executive committee yesterday. There was a warm contest for this concession, several competitors being in the field.

Trees Along the Tracks.

John P. Brown of Connersville, Ind., is in the city in the interest of forestry extension in the west. He is an expert on the planting of trees, and comes to Omaha from Arbor Lodge, Nebraska City, where he has been in consultation with Hon. J. Sterling Morton. The latter is in cordial sympathy with the plans of the Indiana man, and is going to help him in his efforts to get the great railway systems of the west to do some tree planting in the territory tributary to their lines.

At present Mr. Brown is in consultation with General Manager Holdrege of the B. & M. and other Burlington officials on his mission. He has their assurances of support, and while in the west will make a trip over all the lines of the Burlington west of the Mississippi river to investigate the matter of planting the right trees in the right places. He also is being backed by Collis P. Huntington, president of the Southern Pacific company, who has promised to help the cause of forestry along the lines of that system. MMr.​ Brown says he is confident that if the railroads and the press of the west take up the mission of those who are trying to secure general tree planting in the west, that this section of the country will soon enjoy the most beneficial effects therefrom.

Endorsement of the Homeopathists.

The last number of the American Homeopathist, published at Cleveland, O., contains the following editorial bearing on the meeting of the Homeopathic institute in Omaha: "We are assured by Dr. W. H. Hanchett and other members of the Omaha committee that no fear need be entertained but that the capacity of the hotels of that city will be ample for all the demands of the institute. There may be some of our members who have been to Europe a few times but have never been west of the Mississippi river until they went to the institute at Denver and who, therefore, have had the thought that Omaha is a small town on the outskirts of civilization. A cursory reading of some of the literature which is being issued by the exposition company, after deducting a fair margin for exuberance of spirits, will convince anyone that it is a large city and that the exposition is second only to the World's fair; and that even here, in many details, it surpasses the fair. At any rate it will be a beautiful picture and one which no good American can afford to miss. It will be well, however, not to defer engaging rooms until the best rooms are taken. It costs but a postal card."

ASSURES A MILITARY CAMP

Omaha to See a Great Gathering of Regular Soldiers.

WAR DEPARTMENT'S PLEASING ACTION

Exposition Authorities Greatly Gratified by the News that a Cantonment of Troops Has Been Ordered.

The officials of the exposition are greatly elated over the news from Washington regarding the encampment of the regular troops of the Department of the Missouri at Omaha during the exposition. This is a matter which has been quietly agitated for some time, and the approval of the War department was all that was required to insure its complete success. President Wattles has been conducting the negotiations with General Coppinger to bring about this result, and he expresses the great gratification at the success which has been attained.

It was for this purpose that application was made to the War department for the control of the old Fort Omaha reservation, the intention being to use this ground for the encampment of troops The department some time ago gave authority to the exposition to use the land, but reserved the buildings. The exposition has since been endeavoring to get permission to use the buildings, also, and this will probably be granted.

The plans for this cantonment of troops of the Department of the Missouri are not thoroughly worked out, but in conferences between President Wattles and General Coppinger the plan considered has been to bring to Omaha one or two regiments at one time, allowing this force to remain for about two weeks and then ordering another similar detachment to relieve it. In this way a good-sized force of regulars would be at hand at all times and all the troops of the department be given a short season of camp life. Each regiment will bring its field equipage with it and make camp on the old fort grounds, where the regulation camp routine will be maintained. The daily drills and field evolutions of the troops will take place inside the exposition grounds, where a suitable place of sufficient size will be provided for the purpose.

The troops in the Department of the Missouri include a number of regiments of cavalry as well as some of the finest infantry regiments of the army, and the attraction afforded by the evolutions of these troops, especially the field drills of the cavalry forces, will undoubtedly prove a very strong drawing card.

The effect of this action of the War department on the militia of the surrounding states is expected to be very pronounced. Arrangements are being made by President Wattles for the use of a section of land in the immediate vicinity of the old fort for the encampment of such militia organizations as may visit Omaha during the exposition. This land will be provided with many of the necessary requirements for a military camp, including tents with board floors, water, sanitary arrangements, lights and straw for bed ticks. The advantages to be derived from such a camp in the immediate vicinity of a large camp of regular troops are recognized by the military men as forming a strong inducement, of itself, to the troops of the national guard of neighboring states to come to Omaha for that purpose, aside form the inducements offered by the exposition and many other attractions, and it is expected that the military features of the exposition may yet assume considerable proportions.

FOR AN EDUCATIONAL EXHIBIT.

Superintendent Jackson Tells of the Space that is Available.

Superintendent W. R. Jackson of the Educational department of the Nebraska Exposition commission has issued a circular in which are given a number of additional notices to teachers and others interested in the exhibit to be made by the Nebraska schools at the exposition.

This circular states that applications for space have now been received from seventy-two of the ninety counties in the state, representing a teaching force of over 2,300. This includes 322 rural schools, 186 graded or high schools (Omaha, Lincoln, etc., counting as one), eight state institutions, including the schools for defectives, industrial schools and the University of Nebraska; five private normals and business colleges, five denominational schools and the State Chautauqua.

The superintendent gives notice that additional space has been secured for the educational exhibit and that the amount now available will allow each teacher to have space for two mounted cardboards, each 22x28 inches.

Teachers are advised to prepare three cardboards, the third to be kept in reserve to replace work which may become soiled. It is announced that all work must be in the hands of the superintendent by April 20.

Spreads the Gospel in Wisconsin.

Chairman John C. Koch of the Wisconsin Exposition commission has been telling the people of Milwaukee about the exposition since his return from his recent visit to Omaha. In an interview published in one of the Milwaukee papers the former mayor of that city said that the work of preparation is progressing very rapidly and satisfactorily and he had no doubt that everything will be in place and ready by June 1, the date set for the formal opening. "I was every foot of exhibit space was taken, and that no more space can be contracted for," said Mr. Koch, "and I guess the statement is correct, because while I was there a business friend of mine in the hardware business told me an organization with which he was connected had just given up 75,000 feet of space, owing to some hitch in the work of the intended exhibitors, and in less than twenty-four hours every foot of the surrendered space was taken and contracts signed. While there we closed contracts for the erection of the Wisconsin building, and it will be completed within six weeks. The new 'White City' has something of the general appearance of the one at Chicago, though the buildings are, of course, much smaller, but in some instances I think they are handsomer and neater."

MORE CONVENTIONS ARE COMING.

Thirteen Gatherings Secured During the Last Week.

During the last week Secretary Utt of the Commercial club has secured the dates of sitting of thirteen additional conventions, making a total of about forty-five, or less than one-half, scheduled up to date. The following is the list:

Society of American Florists, August 16, 17, 18 and 19, 1898; William J. Stewart, secretary, Bromfield street, Boston, Mass. National; delegates, 500.

Western Traveling Men's association, July; Arthur L. Shutz, secretary, Grand Island; State; delegates, 500.

Transmississippi Fruit Festival association, June 1 to November 1; W. G. Hervey, secretary, Omaha. Interstate.

Nebraska State Horticultural society, July; C. H. Barnard, secretary, Table Rock. Interstate; attendance, 250.

American Association of Farmers' Institutes, October; F. W. Taylor, secretary, Omaha. National; attendance, 350.

Nebraska State Medical society, June 14, 15 and 16; W. O. Bridges, president, Omaha. State; attendance, 500.

Independent Order of Foresters, July 19; Finley L. Coombs, secretary, Omaha. State; attendance, 2,500.

National Alliance Theatrical Stage employes, July 18; J. Bayard, secretary, Omaha. State; attendance, 100.

United State League Local Loan and Building associations, July 27 and 28; H. F. Cellarius, secretary, Cincinnati, O. National; attendance, 150.

Bohemian Day Transmississippi and International Exposition, August 27; V. J. Sebek, secretary, Omaha. National; attendance, 10,000.

Western District Bohemian tournament, August 28 to 30; V. J. Sebek, secretary, Omaha. Interstate; attendance, 300.

National Convention Bohemian Turners, August 31; B. Bartos, secretary, Omaha. National; delegates, 4,000.

Danish Lutheran Church of American, June 13 to 15; Rev. P. Grarengaard, secretary, Brayton, Ia. Interstate; delegates, 200.

FORM A PENNSYLVANIA CLUB.

Natives of the Keystone State Make a Local Organization.

In response to the call of Major Clarkson about twenty natives of Pennsylvania met at exposition headquarters and formed an organization for the purpose of assisting in the celebration of "Pennsylvania day" at the exposition. Major Clarkson explained that the governor of Pennsylvania and his suite will visit the exposition some time during the summer and a large number of people will come from that state to visit the exposition, making it desirable to perfect arrangements for properly entertaining the visitors and making them feel that they are among friends.

It was stated that there are at least 10,000 Pennsylvanians in Nebraska, some of the counties having permanent organizations. Burt county, for instance, was reported to have a permanent organization which holds meeting at regular intervals. A search of the poll books shows that Douglas county has about 800 voters who are natives of Pennsylvania, and it was decided to be desirable to effect an organization to get these people together, the idea being to have all native Pennsylvanians in the state come to Omaha on Pennsylvania day and participate in the enjoyment.

With this in view a permanent organization was effected by electing the following officers: General C. F. Manderson, president; Major T. S. Clarkson, vice president; W. G. Shriver, secretary; H. B. Irey, treasurer. A committee on by-laws was appointed as follows: W. G. Shriver, D. B. Houck and W. S. Askwith. This committee will report at a meeting to be held at exposition headquarters next Saturday at 12:30 p. m.

MISSOURI COMING IN FULL FORCE.

Plans Made for Some Very Creditable Exhibits.

The Missouri Exposition commission is pursuing the same energetic course which has marked its work since the visit of the commission in a body to Omaha to see exactly what was being done and judge what might be expected. In a recent interview published in a Missouri paper Secretary Carroll said that he felt very confident, from the returns he had received, that Missouri will excel all the other states in the exhibits of horses, mules, cattle, hogs, cotton, corn, wheat, oats, flax, tobacco, fruits and berries, lead, zinc, granite, sandstone, limestone, onyx, lumber, and last, but not least, manufactured articles of many kinds.

Secretary Carroll also said that a legal opinion has been obtained in Buchanan county to the effect that county courts have power to make appropriations to aid in local exhibits. In some counties the courts went ahead weeks ago and made appropriations, but in others they have held back on the claim that they doubted their authority to do so. The commissioners hope that the ruling in the Buchanan county case will have a good effect on the counties where no help has been secured from the county courts.

One of Wyoming's Beauties.

The Department of Ways and Means has received the photograph of Mrs. M. A. Adams of Sundance, Wyo., one of the women selected by the vice president of Wyoming to represent that state in the composite photograph for the exposition medal. The picture has been forwarded to New York to be incorporated in the composite photograph.

HURRY EXPOSITION STAMPS

Officials in Charge Urged to Get the Issue Out Quickly.

LITTLE STICKERS ARE QUITE ARTISTIC

Possibility of Regular Stamps Being Displaced by the Exposition Issue During the Big Show.

WASHINGTON, March 19.—(Special Telegram.)—Mr. Rosewater had a long talk today with Claude Johnson, in charge of the bureau of printing and engraving, in relation to the exposition stamps. The chairman saw the designs for the stamps and expressed himself as greatly pleased with their appropriateness and their artistic character. Mr. Rosewater regretted that there could not have been some distinctive designation on the stamps, but he was shown that neither the Columbian stamps nor those issued for the Centennial were thus marked. Later he saw Third Assistant Postmaster General Merritt and urged the importance of having the present series of stamps withdrawn from use in order that the Omaha series of stamps may be made valuable to stamp collectors, use being an element of value. Merritt agreed to take up the subject, and also pledged the department to hasten their preparation.

Interior department officials are becoming greatly interested in the forthcoming Indian congress at the Omaha exposition, some of the ablest ethnologists in the country having given a strong endorsement to the idea of grouping the Indians for educational purposes. Prof. Mooney of the department will probably be assigned to detail work in arranging the convention, his knowledge of Indian tribes and customs being most exhaustive.

Secretary Bliss today rendered a second opinion on contests over lands within the limits of the Sioux City and Pacific railroad grant in O'Brien county, Iowa. The case decided today was that of Schneider against Links, Willer and others. Schneider purchased the land in controversy form the railroad company in 1883 and in January, 1886, filed notice of his intention to purchase the land in accordance with the notice of the department after the supreme court decision declaring the lands forfeited to the government. He claimed the land under the act of March 3, 1887, as a purchaser in good faith from the company. Links, Willer and others made homestead entries for land in February at the time of the opening under departmental instructions. The local officers decided in favor of Schneider. This decision was reversed by the land commissioner. The secretary today overruled the latter and awarded the land to Schneider as an innocent purchaser under the forfeiture act of 1887. The decision today in favor of the purchaser and the former decision in favor of the settler will determine the disposition of a number of contests, involving about 23,000 acres of lands declared forfeited by the supreme court.

Atwell L. Burr was today appointed watchman in the new government building at Omaha at a salary of $720 per year, the civil service commission having made the appointment. Burr was recommended by Senator Thurston, having taken the examination for watchman at Grand Island last year.

Congressman Sutherland has been authorized by the committee on private claims to report favorably bills for Isaac Marsh of Wellfleet, and George M. Anderson of Mariaville, Neb.

M. P. Keef of Omaha is in the city.

PRINCETON UNIVERSITY COMING.

Will Probably Make an Exhibit at the Exposition.

Princeton university will in all probability have an exhibit at the Transmississippi Exposition commensurate with its important position in the educational world of this country. Clement Chase visited the members of the faculty on his recent eastern trip and secured their promise to put in such a display if arrangements for a suitable manager could be made. This difficulty seems to be overcome by a proposition made by J. T. Downing, a Princetonian now in the city.

Mr. Downing has been in the city for several weeks on business, and while here became impressed with the idea that his house should put in an exhibit at the exposition. He informed the publishers to this effect, and his brother, one of the managers, is now looking over the situation. Both men are convinced that the Scribners should have a display and the result will probably be that one will be put in.

In case that J. T. Downing is installed as manager of this exhibit he is ready and willing to look after the one of Princeton University and has written to the faculty of that institution to that effect. Princeton had a magnificent exhibit at the World's fair and it is likely that one as good will be installed here. The grounds and buildings reproduced on a small scale and many historic relics of the revolutionary era of this country were displayed.

Women Beautify the Street.

The women living on Sherman avenue have formed an organization which they have named the Sherman Avenue Decorating club, the purpose of the organization being to improve the appearance of the main street leading to the exposition grounds by painting and otherwise improving the appearance of the houses along the street, beautifying the yards and adding to the beauty of that greatly traveled thoroughfare in many other ways. Among the schemes which the women have evolved is one for placing a bracket on the side of each telegraph pole, which is toward the street and on each bracket they propose a potted plant. The telephone company and street railway company will be called on to improve the appearance of their poles by painting them white or by replacing them with more sightly ones. The Missouri Pacific Railway company will be asked to improve and park the vacant land between its tracks and Sherman avenue, and property owners all along the street will be asked to show why they should not do their portion toward beautifying this street.

The officers of this society are: Mrs. W. Bishop, president; Mrs. Joseph Houska, treasurer; Mrs. James Redmon, secretary. The society met at the house of Mrs. Joseph Redmon last night, their coming being a complete surprise to Mrs. Redmon, but the visitors were pleasantly entertained and an interesting business meeting was held.

Statuary for the Arch.

The statuary for the Administration arch has been completed and has been taken out to the exposition grounds. These figures were made by Sculptor Walter Mettler at his temporary studio down town. The main group will be placed over the cornice at the center of the south front of the building. This group consists of three figures, the central figure being seated on a throne in a watchful attitude, holding in one hand a scepter, being representative of Administration. At the feet of the central figure are two messengers, one at either side. The corner pavilions are surmounted by four figures, one at each corner. These are seated, each holding a flaming torch above the head.

Work in New Mexico.

Special Agent C. E. Llewellyn reports to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he attended a meeting of the New Mexico Exposition commission on the 15th inst., and found that all matters in relation to an exhibit are in good condition. He says the mineral exhibit, which is being collected by J. J. Leeson, added to the already large collection belonging to Mr. Leeson, will make this display one of the finest at the exposition. A good showing will also be made in other lines, particularly in agriculture.

Drawings of State Buildings.

Secretary Carroll of the Missouri commission has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he will send a perspective drawing of the Missouri building in a few days for publication in exposition literature.

A handsome water color drawing of the Minnesota building has been received by the department. It shows a handsome building, two stories in height, the Swiss style of architecture being followed. The building is to be of logs with the bark on and will be a most attractive structure.

A pen drawing of the Montana building is another received by the department. This shows a two-story building of staff exterior, with handsome ornamentation and very attractive in appearance.

Notes of the Exposition.

R. P. Bringhurst of St. Louis, the sculptor who is "doing" the sculpture on the Art building, has been awarded the contract for the statuary on the Mines building.

The plans and specifications for the Arch of the States have been delivered to the Department of Buildings and Grounds, and bids for the construction will be asked for at once.

The drawings and specifications for International hall, the building to be erected on Twentieth street just north of the Manufactures building, have been completed and bids for the construction of the building will be asked for. This building will be devoted entirely to foreign exhibits.

Dr. W. Seward Webb, president of the Wagner Palace Car company and member of the New York Exposition commission, has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he will be in Omaha Monday and will confer with the exposition officials regarding the work of the commission.

ILLINOIS AND EXPOSITION

SUCKER STATE PLANS A GREAT EXHIBIT

Clark E. Carr, President of the Commission, Talks of What His People Intend to Do at Omaha.

Clark E. Carr of Galesburg, president of the Illinois Exposition commission, Colonel W. H. Harper, chairman of the executive committee, and H. R. Wilson, architect of the Illinois building, are in the city to make arrangements regarding the annex which is to be made to the Illinois building to serve as an art gallery. In company with T. R. Kimball, architect-in-chief of the exposition, the Illinois delegation visited the grounds and the location of the Illinois annex was agreed upon. It will be 30x50 feet in size and the same height as the main Illinois building, with which it will be connected by an artistic colonnade. The annex at once, in order to complete it as soon as possible.

General Carr was quite enthusiastic regarding the part Illinois will play in the coming exposition and said the state will be represented in the most extensive manner. The commission has been doing energetic work to arouse interest among the manufacturers and many other interests in the state and President Carr says all of these interests says all of these interests will be represented by large exhibits of a high order. These matters are being looked after by the commissioners to whom they have been assigned and the indications are very favorable for a fine showing in every department.

The mining interests will make a fine showing, in the opinion of General Carr, the large mine owners having been interested in the matter of Judge Wall of DuQuoin. The breeders of fancy high class live stock will also make fine exhibits. In this line will be a magnificent showing of blooded cattle by the Illinois Live Stock Breeders' association and breeders of fine strains of sheep and horses are making unusual preparations for an exhibit that shall beat the world. The horticulturists of the state are greatly interested and a fine showing of all kinds of fruit will be made.

Regarding the Illinois building General Carr said it will be very handsomely decorated, the leading houses of Chicago having been asked to make figures on decorating the building. It is proposed to make the interior present an appearance in keeping with the artistic exterior and liberal use will be made of some of the handsome statuary made for the World's fair. The annex will be liberally decorated with statuary and paintings, the principal places being occupied by four large paintings of the World's fair by John Key. A large number of smaller paintings will be hung in the galleries and foyer.

HAS THE SANCTION OF CANADA.

Dominion Government Will Aid in the Exposition Work.

British Vice Consul M. A. Hall of this city, who went to Canada as the special representative of the exposition management to induce the Canadian government to reconsider its determination not to make an exhibit at the exposition, has returned and reports that his mission was very successful and that the Canadian exhibit in International hall will be a very creditable showing.

Mr. Hall visited Ottawa and had interviews with all of the leading officials in the dominion government and with the most influential members of the Dominion parliament. He encountered very little encouragement at first, the officials politely informing him that the matter had been disposed of and no exhibit would be made, but by dint of personal effort he succeeded in having the subject reopened and an appropriation was made for an exhibit. The Canadian government will occupy about 4,000 square feet of space in International hall and will make a collective exhibit, showing minerals, agricultural products and manufactured goods.

The Canadian Pacific railroad will co-operate with the government. In this connection, the Canadian Gazette, the official organ of the government, in its issue of March 12, prints the full text of the diplomatic correspondence, carrying with it the invitation of the exposition officials to the queen and her colonies to participate in the exposition. The invitation of President Wattles, the letter of Minister John Hay transmitting it to the marquis of Salisbury, and the letter of transmittal to the governor general of Canada, are printed in full together with the regulations of the United States Treasury department regulating the entry of foreign exhibits. This matter occupied three pages of the Gazette and is a formal notice to all the inhabitants of Canada that the government gives its official sanction to the exposition.

EMPIRE STATE TO MAKE A SHOW.

Dr. Webb Expresses His Determination to Have New York in Line.

President Wattles feels greatly elated over the effect a visit to the exposition grounds had upon Dr. W. Seward Webb, president of the Wagner Palace Car company and a member of the New York Exposition commission. Just prior to the arrival of the sleeping car magnate in this city a letter had been received from him, in which he stated that he could not find the time to give a great deal of attention to the exposition matter and had accepted the appointment as a commissioner with that understanding, but after a visit to the grounds and an inspection of the beautiful buildings, Dr. Webb expressed himself in the very strongest terms to President Wattles, who accompanied him on the trip, and declared in unqualified terms that the exposition was far superior to the World's Fair. He reiterated his astonishment at the wonders which had been accomplished by western enterprise and declared most emphatically that he would make it his especial business, upon his return to New York, to urge upon Governor Black and upon the legislature of the state the absolute necessity of prompt and liberal action in order to enable the state to be fitly represented.

Dr. Webb also said he would see to it that the Wagner Palace Car company makes a fine exhibit of its palace cars by exhibiting a full train of its finest cars equipped with all the modern appliances and comforts.

Exposition Chorus Work.

The Exposition chorus will meet tomorrow night for regular rehearsal in its new quarters on the fifth floor of the city hall. The rehearsal will begin promptly at one minute before 8 o'clock. Choral Director Kelly announces that persons who have signified their intention of joining the chorus will be dropped from the rolls unless they report Tuesday night personally or in writing.

The "Daughter of Jairus" will be taken up for rehearsal and Mr. Kelly desires all members of the chorus to provide themselves with this work. Arrangements have been made with the local music dealers by which members of the chorus may purchase this publication at a special price by making the fact of their membership known.

Apportioning Nebraska Building.

The special committee appointed at the February meeting of the Nebraska Exposition commission to report upon the employes who will be required to conduct the business of the Nebraska commission until the close of the exposition will meet in this city before the regular meeting of the commission tomorrow night. This committee is also charged with the duty of deciding upon the uses to which the several rooms in the Nebraska building are to be devoted. In this connection it will consider the hosts of applications from the various organizations, secret societies, etc., in this state, each of which desires to be assigned a room for headquarters.

A special committee representing the Grand Army of the Republic of Nebraska is in Omaha to appear before this committee and urge the claims of the old soldiers to a room in the Nebraska building for headquarters. This committee consists of T. J. Majors, department commander; J. D. Gage, adjutant general, and J. H. Culver, past department commander. This committee says that if a room is assigned to it a number of relics will be installed as decorations, among them the tattered standard of the First Nebraska Volunteers and many other war relics.

PLANNING THE MILITARY CAMP.

Secretary of War Meiklejohn Visits the Exposition Grounds.

Assistant Secretary of War Meiklejohn spent the day in the company of President Wattles and Major Clarkson of the Exposition Executive department, making a trip to the exposition grounds and to the site of old Fort Omaha. Mr. Meiklejohn expressed the greatest pleasure and surprise at the magnificent showing made by the exposition grounds and it seemed to increase his already strong interest in the progress of the enterprise. He said the old fort grounds will be turned over to the exposition authorities, together with the buildings on the grounds, excepting the buildings which have been leased to Prof. Gillespie for a school. These grounds will be utilized as a camp ground for the troops of the Department of Missouri, which will be ordered to Omaha in small detachments of one or two regiments to camp during the exposition. Mr. Meiklejohn said he would do all in his power to aid in carrying out this plan and expressed the greatest confidence in the success of the movement. The space inside the exposition grounds which will be used as a drill ground for the troops was pointed out to the secretary and he manifested great interest concerning everything connected with the matter.

During this ride Mr. Meiklejohn discussed with President Wattles and Major Clarkson a plan for bringing to the exposition the West Point cadets, the magnificent military organization from the great school maintained by the federal government for the education of young men in the art of war. The assistant secretary said he had been considering this idea for some time, and intends to lay it before the secretary of war with his recommendation that it be carried out. The West Point cadets are rarely ordered for duty away from the military academy, and there are very few precedents for the proposed action. The cadets attended the Centennial exposition at Philadelphia, and were encamped inside the exposition grounds for several weeks, but such instances are very rare, and if the plan of Secretary Meiklejohn is carried out the cadets will prove a strong attraction. They constitute one of the best drilled military organizations in the world, and their presence at the exposition, in addition to the strong force of regulars, would constitute an attraction seldom seen. Mr. Meiklejohn expressed a firm conviction the Secretary Alger will approve of this move and the exposition authorities consider it practically settled.

BIDS ON PAINTING BUILDINGS.

Three Contractors Make Offers for Doing the Work.

Bids were opened by the Department of Buildings and Grounds for painting and calsomining the interiors of all the main buildings. This includes giving a coat of paint to every bit of exposed woodwork in side the bid buildings and tinting the interior walls. There were three bidders for this work, R. C. Strehlow, Alexander & Son and W. H. Woerheide. The last named had a similar contract at the Nashville exposition and is supplied with spraying machines by which the paint is squirted through a rubber hose with a wide, flat nozzle, after the manner in which the buildings at the World's fair were painted. The other bidders proposed to do the work by hand, in the old fashioned way. In detail the bids were as follows:

Liberal Arts Building—Strehlow, $675; Alexander, $1,075; Woerheide, $590.

Agriculture—Strehlow, $1,050; Alexander, $1,175; Woerheide, $883.

Manufactures—Strehlow, $1,175; Alexander, $1,225; Woerheide, $806.

Machinery and Electricity—Strehlow, $950; Alexander, $1,180; Woerheide, $727.

Auditorium—Strehlow, $425; Alexander, $1,045.

These bids were laid before the executive committee by Manager Kirkendall.

Another Child Wonder.

One of the infant prodigies of the Omaha public schools will assist to entertain the child study department of the Woman's club Wednesday. This is a 6 year-old boy belonging to Miss Campbell's class in the Pacific school, who possesses a remarkable genius for extemporizing fiction. His performances in that line have become quite famous in local educational circles. His teacher hands him a picture that he has never seen before and without a second's hesitation the child will weave a story around the characters portrayed in the picture. He seems to be never at loss for a word or a plot and tells the story as though he was reading it from a book. His originality is quite as remarkable as his fertility of imagination and he has never been known to repeat himself. All through the performance he maintains a stoical indifference to his audience, unless some one ventures to laugh, an indignity that he vigorously resents.

Congregational Convention Delegates.

Rev. J. B. Clark, secretary of the Congregational Home Missionary society, writes to President Wattles from New York to acknowledge receipt of an invitation to delegates to the National Council of Congregational Churches at Portland, Ore., to stop in Omaha en route to and from the council. The secretary expresses the belief that many of the delegates will avail themselves of the opportunity to visit the exposition and says that the people of the east are quite familiar with the exposition from reading the many advertisements and notices in the eastern press and are impressed with the grandeur of the exposition and the admirable manner in which it is being managed.

Notes of the Exposition.

The specifications for the Girls' and Boys' building have been completed and bids for the construction will be asked at once.

W. A. Barnard and Frank L. Schopp, county commissioners of Gothenburg, are in the city to investigate the question of making an irrigation exhibit at the exposition. They visited the grounds in company with   Superintendent E. D. Johnson of the Nebraska commission and conferred with the Department of Exhibits regarding space for a display of the irrigation system in use in their county.

The members of the Woman's Board of Managers, and especially the members of the congress committee, are greatly elated over the fact that Hamlin Garland, the well known author, has accepted the position of chairman of the congress of authors. He has notified the congress committee that he will meet the committee in Chicago in a few days to talk over the details of the congress and begin active operations to make the congress a success.

The Concessions department is receiving propositions for the ice cream concession on the exposition grounds. This concession will cover ice cream, cake, berries and lemonade, and two places for serving the public will be provided, one on the bluff tract and the other in the main court. Several proposals have been received and the contest for the right to serve the public with congealed refreshments is waxing warm.

MEXICO AND INDIAN CONGRESS.

Mr. Rosewater Interests Senor Romero in the Project.

WASHINGTON, March 20.—(Special Telegram.)—Mr. Rosewater, with Prof. Mooney of the ethnological bureau, had a conference wth​ Senor Romero, Mexican minister to this country, in relation to the forthcoming congress of Indian tribes today. Mr. Rosewater has conceived the idea of interesting Mexico in the exhibit and if possible secure from that country representatives of the Indian tribes, which are wholly different from those in the United States. Minister Romero was greatly interested in the project, realizing its educational character and its importance from a practical standpoint. He desired, however, some formal invitation to his government to participate and should the appropriation for the congress become a law it is the understanding that Senator Allen will introduce a joint resolution calling upon the president to formally invite Canada and Mexico to participate in the Indian congress.

While in the city Mr. Rosewater began negotiations with the Marine band to be present at the opening of the exposition and to remain for at least two weeks, providing the consent of Secretary Long can be secured.

Mr. Rosewater left for New York tonight, where he will join Z. T. Lindsey and together they will leave for the west Monday evening.

B. F. White, general attorney for the Elkhorn, is in the city on business with the Interior department in relation to wells along the line of his road used by cattlemen for watering purposes, but found that the matter had been looked after previous to his coming. He will go to New York tomorrow, thence home.

The weighing of mails, upon which the government will make contracts for the next four years, commences on all western roads Tuesday.

FIXING THE COAST DEFENSES

SECRETARY MEIKLEJOHN ON SITUATION

No New Developments Which He Feels at Liberty to Disclose—Plans to Boom the Exposition.

Assistant Secretary of War Meiklejohn, who came to Omaha to attend Mrs. Thurston's funeral, says there are no new developments in the trouble with Spain which he is at liberty to make public and that the report of the board of inquiry is necessary before any action can be taken in the matter. The appropriation of $2,975,000 made for the coast defense will be used in fortifying vulnerable points and will afford the seaport cities much better protection in case of any trouble.

Relative to the moving of the headquarters of the Department of the Missouri, formerly Department of the Platte, Mr. Meiklejohn says that a recommendation was made for the removal to St. Louis. Kansas City and Leavenworth were also contestants for the location, but the secretary of war considered these cities and decided in favor of Omaha. His chief reason for this decision was Omaha's advantageous location on transcontinental railroads. The new division of the army makes the Department of the Missouri much more important than the old Department of the Platte, St. Louis being thrown under this command and the number of men in the department being increased to 2,000.

The day that Mr. Meiklejohn left Washington the use of the unleased buildings on the Omaha reservation was granted to the Transmississippi Exposition in addition to the license to use the grounds, which has been already eexcuted​ and delivered. It is expected that these grounds will be used as a camping place for troops in attendance upon the exposition. The War department has recommended that the military forces under the command of the Department of the Missouri be permitted to attend the Transmississippi Exposition and in all probability the recommendation of Department Commander General Coppinger will be concurred in in this matter. In addition to these forces Mr. Meiklejohn says he will leave no stone unturned to secure for the exposition a summer encampment of cadets from the United States Military academy.

The effort of Congressman Mercer to secure a visit of newspaper correspondents from all over the United States at the time of the opening of the exposition is, in Mr. Meiklejohn's opinion, a movement of great importance to the success of the exposition. He thinks that the presence of these newspaper men would give greater publicity to the magnificent condition of the grounds and the phenomenal success of the management than could be secured in any other way. Mr. Mercer's plan is meeting with favor and promises which have been made him assure that the scheme will be carried through.

WARM PRAISES FROM WEBB

ENTHUSIASTIC OVER THE OUTLOOK

Eastern Magnate Looks Over the Grounds and Admits His Astonishment—Wagner Cars and Union Pacific Lines.

Dr. William Seward Webb, president of the Wagner Palace Car company, and a number of friends spent yesterday in Omaha. The popular railroad magnate is en route from Mexico to New York, and he is in a hurry to get to the latter city in order to keep an appointment with Horace G. Burt, president of the Union Pacific railroad. His mission with President Burt, as announced in The Bee last Thursday, is to consider arrangements for placing a great number of Wagner cars on the Union Pacific road with the idea of ultimately having none but Wagner sleeping cars operated on the "Overland Route."

Just before leaving Omaha last evening Dr. Webb accorded an interview to a Bee reporter, and when asked if the people of the west might soon expect Wagner cars exclusively operated on the Union Pacific, smiled and said: "Well, perhaps. But as president of the company I am hardly in a position to discuss the matter. I certainly would like to see the Wagner company operate its cars on the Union Pacific, and I hope some day to see that a fact. I am now on my way to New York and will see President Burt of the Union Pacific there on Thursday in regard to the matter. There is nothing definite in regard to the subject, one way or the other, that can be given out at this time. If there were I should be only too glad to give it to The Bee. But you may look for some announcement along the line in which we have just been talking very soon, I think."

PRAISES THE EXPOSITION.

Dr. Webb was particularly enthusiastic over the buildings and grounds of the Transmississippi Exposition, which he had visited during the day. In speaking of his trip through the exposition grounds he said: "To say that we were all astonished is to put it very mildly, indeed. Such elegant buildings I have not seen in a long time. They compare favorably with anything that I ever saw, and in some respects even excel the World's fair buildings. The broad scope, the magnitude of the whole affair just about took our breath away. Anything that praises the progress thus far made and the prospects for a great exposition that you may write I'll endorse. I cannot say too much in favor of the affair. Was I favorably impressed? Why, young man, I was just carried away; we were all delighted. It's almost inconceivable that a western city should in such a short time build up an exposition like you have. The people of the east do not thoroughly appreciate what a big affair this is going to be. Why, from the way it looks now, it would be a credit to any government. I believe the exposition will be a great success, and it will do Omaha and the whole west an immense amount of good. The people of the east are gradually learning of its real proportions, and when the time comes a large number of them will come out to attend it."

"Dr. Webb, how did you find things further out west?"

"All right. Business seems good generally, so far as I could observe. We are just returning from a trip through Mexico, where we had an exceedingly pleasant time. We stopped for a while in Salt Lake City and in Denver. Both are fine cities and at both places they report business good and steadily improving. Today we have enjoyed visits to Fort Crook and the exposition, under the kind direction of General Coppinger, and from here will go right along to New York. As I told you, I have an appointment with President Burt in New York, but I shall be out to Omaha again soon."

PARTY AND ITS VISIT.

With Dr. and Mrs. Webb are: Mr. and Mrs. Townsend Burden, Mr. and Mrs. Purdy, Mr. and Mrs. Berd and Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence, New York, and J. C. Yager, general manager of the Wagner Palace Car company. The latter joined the party in this city and while here had a short conference with General Manager Dickinson and Superintendent of Transportation Buckingham of the Union Pacific. The party came in from the west on their own special train about 11 o'clock yesterday morning. The train was switched from the tracks of the Union Pacific at Gilmore Junction and run to Fort Crook. There the party was met by General Coppinger and shown over the grounds and buildings of the fort. Yesterday afternoon was spent in Omaha, driving through the city and visiting the exposition grounds, in which all of the visitors appeared to be intensely interested. The party left for Chicago over the Northwestern at 6 o'clock last evening. The special train in which they traveled was one of the finest that ever passed through this city. It consisted of four Wagner cars, all of the latest design and handsomely furnished. They were the cars Ellsmere, Novara and Aladin from the Lake Shore limited and the cafe car from the Southwestern limited. The train was drawn out of here by Northwestern locomotive No. 783.

UNCLE SAM'S BIG EXHIBIT

COIN STAMPING PRESS TO BE IN OPERATION

Appliances for Maintaining the Fish Exhibit Have Been Shipped and Will Soon Be Put in Place.

Charles S. Kemper, representative of the Treasury department on the Board of Control of the Government building and exhibit, has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion of the general character of the exhibit to be made by the Treasury department at the exposition. Mr. Kemper encloses a description of the exhibit, as follows:

"The administrative functions of the Treasury department may be divided into three branches—the accounting, the financial and commercial. The first of these consists in examining and revising every expenditure of the government, and no money appropriated by congress for the maintenance of the general government, or any of its branches, can be legally expended except upon the approval of the secretary of the treasury. This branch of the department, being purely clerical, cannot be illustrated by an exhibit.

GREAT MONEY MAKER.

"The financial branch of the department is illustrated by a complete set of all the currency issued by the government, from a 10-cent shinplaster to a $10,000 gold note. The process of coining the money of the government is shown by operating a coin press which has been in constant use in the Philadelphia mint for fifty-two years. It has a capacity of 90,000 dollars per hour, and, in coining a silver dollar, strikes a blow equal to the weight of 100 tons. In connection with the mint exhibit is also shown a complete set of the current coins of seventy of the principal nations of the world, and a full set of all the national medals authorized by congress.

"The Bureau of Engraving and Printing, in addition to showing all the paper money of the United States, will exhibit a plate printing press in operation, illustrating the manner in which United States notes are printed, and upon which will be printed a souvenir card of the exposition, showing the White House and capitol at Washington and portraits of the president and vice president.

"The commercial branch of the department has control of all matters pertaining to the collection of revenue, and, by analogy, congress has assigned to the secretary of the treasury the duty of enforcing all laws relating to domestic and foreign commerce of the United States, including the lighthouse establishment, the life saving service, the marine hospital service, the coat and geodetic survey and similar branches of government business.

LIGHTHOUSE EXHIBIT.

"The lighthouse establishment will exhibit a more complete assortment of light apparatus and furnishings than ever before shown, consisting in part of one large second order bivalve lens weighing over eight tons, one third-order lens, flashing red and white lights alternately, and one fourth-order lens, all of which will be shown in operation, together with all the lighting appliances in use by the department.

"The marine hospital service's exhibit is striking and meritorious. It is illustrative of the functions of the government in preventing the introduction and spread of epidemic diseases by the establishment of quarantine stations, where all vessels and passengers are examined by trained surgeons, and by the erection of government hospitals for the care and treatment of American and foreign seamen. It consists of models and photographs of quarantine stations and hospitals, hospital furnishings and fittings, disinfecting apparatus and surgical instruments.

"The Treasury department, through the medium of the coast and geodetic survey, is the custodian of the standard weights and measures of the United States; and, under the authority of congress, supplies each state with a set of standard weights and measures, from which all others are made and tested, and these will be exhibited by the survey, accompanied with models of the metric system."

Mr. Kemper states that in addition to the display made in the government building, to which the foregoing description applies, the life saving service will maintain on the grounds a model station, showing the construction of the stations maintained by the service on the lake and sea coasts, equipped with all the most improved appliances and manned by a full crew. Daily exhibitions will be given on the Mirror by this crew, showing the manner in which lives are saved from wrecked vessels, and the routine of life in this service will be shown.

LIFE SAVING STATION.

Bids for the construction of the life saving station on the exposition grounds will be opened by Superintendent Farnan March 25. This building will be a two-story frame structure, 30x40 feet, and will stand on the south side of the main court directly opposite the middle of the Mirror. It will contain a room for the large lifeboat with which daily exhibitions will be given, and in which will be stored all the paraphernalia which is in use in every station of the life saving service, including buoys of various kinds, life cars, life lines, small mortars for throwing lines to vessels, etc. The crew of the station will occupy quarters in the building and the living quarters and all other portions of the building will be completely equipped.

"The machinery and other appliances required for the operation of the fish exhibit in the Government building have been shipped from Washington and Superintendent Farnan expects to receive this material within a very few days. All of the machinery will be put in position at once and the tanks and other apparatus required for this exhibit will be completed as soon as possible in order that the fish may be installed in their new home at an early date and become acclimated before the warm weather begins.

The sea water required for the ocean fish will be brought from Marblehead Mass., and fourteen-tank cars containing this water are now on their way to Omaha. The salt water used for the fish exhibit will be kept in circulation by means of force pumps. The water is taken from the tanks and aerated before being returned in order to keep it in good condition. All of this work requires the use of a great deal of machinery and it is this which is daily expected at the grounds.

PUTTING ON FINISHING TOUCHES.

Preparations are being made for placing in position on the extreme top of the dome of the Government building the large statue, "Liberty Enlightening the World," which is ready to take its stand on this lofty pedestal, 150 feet above the level of the ground, the highest point on the exposition grounds.

The beautiful and shapely dome is visible from all parts of the city and when the huge figure is placed on top of the graceful lantern it will be a landmark, visible from every side. This figure of liberty is fourteen feet in height and weighs 2,000 pounds. It is of plaster and is in several sections. This figure was modeled by artists specially employed for that purpose by Alexander & Sons, the staff contractors for the Government building. These artists were given special quarters outside the exposition grounds and have been employed for several weeks in turning out this huge work. A small model of the figure was made in Washington under the watchful eye of the architect of the building and shipped to Omaha. From this model the large figure was made. It is a perfect reproduction of Bartholdi's famous statue in New York harbor and is a most fitting embellishment of the beautiful building being erected by the government on the exposition grounds.

A substantial staging has been constructed about the lantern and above the pedestal where the figure will rest when in position. An ordinary manhole in the floor of the lantern will serve to haul up the smaller portions of the figure, but the large pieces will be dragged over the outside of the done​. The statue will be assembled on its pedestial​, the several parts being securely fastened together with iron braces.

This work has been delayed by the high wind which has prevailed during the last week, but the preparations are nearly completed and the goddess will soon be at her post.

SUNDAY SCENES AT THE GROUNDS.

Great Activity Among Workers Watched by Interested Hundreds.

Many hundreds of people went to the exposition grounds on pleasure bent yesterday. The main court and bluff tract were overrun with crowds of sight-seers. Vehicles of every description thronged the bluff tract all day long, but the gates of the main court were closed against them. A large proportion of the visitors were strangers, who took advantage of a short stay in the city to visit the grounds and see what the exposition promises. The buildings and grounds were thoroughly inspected and the progress of the work was watched with a great deal of interest.

Residents of Omaha who had not visited the grounds for a week or more were amazed at the great changes which had in the meantime been made in the appearance of the grounds. These changes were especially noticeable on the bluff tract. This hitherto level piece of ground, unbroken by a tree or bush, has been changed into a forest of mature growth. A force of 200 men under the energetic direction of Rudolf Ulrich, a landscape architect of renown especially engaged to direct this work, has covered this sightly location with a growth of trees and shrubbery which has completely changed the appearance of the place. Instead of a fine stretch of land adapted for raising corn, it is now a beautiful park, with trees thickly dotting the scene and bushes and handsome shrubbery on every side. Winding walks are bordered by trees thirty or forty feet in height, with spreading limbs already showing the buds, which give promise of abundant shade. Thousands of bushes of every kind are distributed where their leafy growth will best add to the general effect, the whole producing a park-like effect, which promises to make this portion of the grounds the most attractive and popular resort within the exposition fence.

A puffing steam road roller, aided and abetted by a number of men and teams distributing cracked stone and gravel, is busily engaged in making macadam walks and drives all about this tract.

All was activity and the crowds seemed to derive great entertainment from watching the various stages of the work develop under the skillful hands of the workmen. The full force of men in all branches of the work were busily engaged in pushing things to the limit and the changes which have been wrought form the best evidence of how well this has been done.

The south viaduct across Sherman avenue and the two restaurants adjoining it are well under way and are being pushed as fast as possible, all the men being employed that can be handled to advantage. The same is true of the Moorish palace. This handsome structure is assuming huge proportions and is attracting great attention. Its unique form is the cause of considerable comment on the part of all who see it, the handsomely rounded dome and slender minarets, each and all surmounted by a golden crescent, forming a most attractive scene from every point of view.

The broad street which will form the central avenue of the Midway has been paved nearly to the north line of the Grand Plaza and has developed into a popular promenade for visitors to the grounds. By its means they reach the north viaduct and Power plant, both of which are well advanced and rapidly nearing completion.

In strong contrast to the liberal treatment of the bluff tract, with its winding walks, bordered and shaded with tall trees and its profusion of shrubbery, is the effect of the main court. As the work on both progresses the effect upon the visitor who passes from one to the other grows more pronounced. The main court is now reaching a stage where the casual visitor receives a lasting impression of grandeur and beauty and can see, in his mind's eye, the surpassing magnificence which the finished court will present.

Work is being pushed very energetically on the exedra which will enclose the east end of the tract and form a foreground for the towering restaurants beyond on the bluff tract. A force of 200 laborers has been employed for the last ten days in cleaning up the debris about the main buildings and in levelling the grounds and making preparations for the parking and laying of walks. This preliminary work has added greatly to the appearance of the court and is a promise of the beauty which may be anticipated. The earth removed in the leveling process is carried to depressions about the west end of the court and is thus made to serve a double purpose.

The scaffolding used by the staff workers has been removed from all except the Art and Government buildings. A force of workmen is employed in the interior of the Art building and some of the galleries are nearly completed. The fireproofing of the building has been about completed and work will soon be commenced on the exterior.

Work is being carried rapidly forward on the Government building and the great beauty of this magnificent structure is daily becoming more apparent. The exterior of both wings is well nigh completed and the handsome central portion is rapidly taking on a finished appearance.

Work in Idaho.

The Idaho Exposition commission is making encouraging progress in the collection of material for a fine exhibit showing the resources of that state. The state has been divided into districts and a member of the commission placed in charge of each district. Each county is supplied with an active committee working under the direction of a commissioner and special committee have been appointed to take charge of collecting the exhibits at central points and seeing to their shipment to Omaha. Chairman Gwin has recently made a tour of the state and is quoted by the Boise Statesman as saying that the work is being done in a most satisfactory and thorough manner and will unquestionably result in a fine collection of material being exhibited at Omaha.

Oregon Commission Acts.

A telegram from President W. S. Mason of the Oregon Exposition commission to President Wattles notified the exposition management that the arrangements made by Commissioner Dosch of Portland a few days ago were ratified by the Oregon commission. Mr. Dosch reserved 3,000 feet on the bluff tract for an Oregon building, 624 feet in the Agriculture building, 1,200 feet in the Forestry exhibit, 640 feet in the Liberal Arts building for an educational exhibit, 600 feet for a fish exhibit, 1,430 feet in the Mines building and 1,200 feet in the Horticulture building.

PLACE FOR CONVENTIONS

EXPOSITION MANAGERS FACE A PROBLEM

Negotiations for Halls Have Thus Far Been Very Unsatisfactory and Building One Seems the Only Solutions.

The providing of a large hall for the accommodation of the numerous conventions, congresses, etc., which will meet in Omaha during the coming summer is a matter which has become an especially live issue since the refusal of the trustees of the First Congregational church to allow that church to be used by the Woman's club between June and November in order to carry out the club's desire to co-operate with the exposition and provide a meeting place for a large proportion of the conventions.

A committee of the Woman's club and President Wattles of the exposition have held numerous conferences with the church trustees and it was generally understood that the matter was virtually settled and that the church was to be turned over to the women to be used every day except Sunday for congresses or conventions. There are about 100 conventions and congresses which will meet in Omaha during the coming summer, and the purpose of the Woman's club was to have a large proportion of the smaller gatherings, those where the attendance would not exceed 100 or so, meet in the church. It was a part of the plan to have a committee of women from the club act as hostesses for each of these conventions and look after the decorations of the church. The trustees took exception to the idea of having gatherings of men in the church, some of them being afraid that the men might put their feet over the back of the pews or smoke or do some other objectionable thing, notwithstanding the presence of the women of the reception committee. The trustees indicated their willingness to grant the use of the church if allowed to select the conventions or congresses which were to be allowed to meet there. The other parties to the agreement positively refused to be thus restricted and the refusal of the trustees to allow the church to be used for any conventions followed.

OTHER CHURCHES OBJECT.

Prior to the negotiations with the trustees of the First Congregational church the committee of the Woman's club interviewed the officers of some of the other down town churches. The trustees of the First Methodist church declined to consider any proposition looking to the use of that church for conventions of any kind. The officials in control of the Kountze Memorial church were willing to negotiate with the club representatives on the basis of $2,000 as rental, but stipulated that they must be allowed to select the gatherings which would meet in the church. Especial objection was made to the Congress of Liberal Religions and a proposition involving the holding of this meeting in the church would not be considered. As the club representatives and the exposition officials declined to have their course dictated by outside authorities the negotiations were dropped at that point Unity church was the only one of the down-town religious edifices which was offered without strings at a rental of $500, but the auditorium of this building is rather small and would accommodate only the smallest of the gatherings.

President Wattles has taken up the matter in another way and has written to the Commercial club asking that organization to take hold of the project to erect a temporary hall somewhere down town which shall have a seating capacity of about 6,000, so arranged that it may be divided into smaller halls to accommodate several small gatherings at the same time. The exposition management will head a subscription list for such a purpose with a liberal subscription and the Commercial club is asked to take charge of the matter and push it to early consummation.

President Wattles says this is the only apparent solution of this question. The negotiations for the use of the Coliseum have come to naught and the president says something must be done to provide a meeting place for the great conventions which will come, while the failure of the negotiations for churches and smaller halls makes it absolutely necessary that something be done at once to provide for the smaller gatherings.

ARRANGING FOR THE EXHIBITS.

Manager Bruce and Superintendent Hardt Mature Their Plans.

The headquarters of the Department of Exhibits will be removed to the exposition grounds April 20. Manager Bruce and General Superintendent Hardt will open an office in the gallery of the Manufacturers   building, and each of the other superintendents of the department will have an office in the building under his immediate charge. By May 1 the floor of each building will be marked out in such a way that each exhibitor may know just where he is located and on this date the installation will commence. The placing of many of the heavier exhibits will probably commence some time before this date, notably in the Machinery and Electricity building. By May 25 all exhibits will be required to be in place, and the time intervening before June 1 will be devoted to clearing away the debris and getting ready for the opening day. Between May 25 and June 10 no exhibits will be received under any circumstances, but after the last named date delayed exhibitors who can offer a good excuse for delay will be allowed to take the space assigned to them.

Colorado's Horticultural Exhibit.

Mrs M. A. Shute, secretary of the Colorado State Board of Horticulture, has notified the Department of Exhibits that she has on file guarantees for 1,230 square feet of space in the Horticulture building at the exposition and hopes to soon have enough to completely fill the 1,860 feet which have been reserved in this building for Colorado.

Can Accommodate Secret Societies.

Messrs Casper and Boydston of the special committee went out to the Nebraska building yesterday afternoon and decided, after making a careful examination of the various rooms, that the commission could provide desk room for twenty-six secret societies or other organizations by placing desks around in out-of-the-way corners in the rotunda on the first and second floors. The places available for such use are well lighted and can be used for such purpose without interfering with the other uses to which the building will be devoted. Governor Holcomb will be assigned a suite of two rooms on the second floor at the north end of the building, including the large room in the center of this end, which will serve as a reception room, and a smaller room in the northeast corner, which will serve as a private office. The corresponding room in the center of the north end of the first floor will be assigned to the Grand Army of the Republic. This room is 16x33 feet in size. No other society will be given the exclusive use of a room in the building. The exact uses to which the remaining rooms will be devoted have not been determined, but one or two will be used by the commission for offices, another will be assigned to the hostess of the building, Miss Butterfield, and the others will be used for waiting rooms for both men and women, telegraph room, check room, toilet rooms, etc.

FINE FOUNTAIN FOR THE MIRROR.

Novelty Designed by an Electrical Engineer to Be Constructed.

A novel and very beautiful fountain, designed by Luther M. Stieringer, the consulting electrical engineer for the exposition, has been approved by the executive committee and its construction will be commenced at once.

This fountain has been baptized "Nautilus" and it will occupy a conspicuous place in the Mirror. The central figure is a column of the Ionic order, fifty feet in height, on the top of which will appear the figure of Neptune, the gods of the seas, holding aloft his trident and commanding the broad expanse of water beneath his feet. About the base of this column, just below the surface of the water, will be thousands of jets which will produce the most marvelous effects with the sparkling water. When the fountain is not in action there will be nothing to break the placid surface of the water except the tall column, but when the word is given thousands of beautiful forms will be assumed and the sparkling fluid will be thrown to great heights in ever changing variety.

At night electric beams of brilliant colors will be thrown upon the sparkling water from an invisible source and the most startling and beautiful effects will be produced.

Working Out a Report.

The commission of the Nebraska Exposition commission which is to report on the number of employes required to conduct business until the close of the exposition spent the entire day behind closed doors working on the duties assigned it. In addition to reporting on employes the committee will recommend a division of these appointments among the members of the commission. It will also recommend the use to which the rooms in the Nebraska building should be devoted and make suggestions regarding the allotment of available funds among the several departments.

The consideration of the report of this committee will form the principal business before the Nebraska commission at its meeting tonight.

DIVIDE NEBRASKA BUILDING

COMMISSIONERS APPORTION THE ROOMS

Structure Offered for Acceptance and its Apartments Designated for Special Uses—Number of Employes Decided On.

The Nebraska Exposition commission completed its business and adjourned shortly after noon today. There was little business to be done, the disposal of the report of the special committee on employes and the setting aside of the various amounts for each department having made almost a clean slate.

Commissioner Whitford announced that the Nebraska building has been entirely completed and is ready for acceptance. At his suggestion a committee of two, Neville and Whitford, was appointed to make a thorough examination of the building in company with the architects and accept it if the work is found to be in compliance with the specifications and plans.

Commissioner Boydston and Dutton were appointed a committee to make arrangements for lighting the Nebraska building.

Superintendent Pegler of the poultry bureau tendered his resignation and it was accepted. Mr. Boydston nominated C. M. Richards of Omaha as superintendent of this bureau and the appointment was confirmed.

On motion of Commissioner Poynter Fish Commissioner Lew May was asked to make an estimate of the cost of making an exhibit representing the fish industry of Nebraska in connection with the fish exhibit in the Government building and submit the same to the next meeting of the commission.

LOCATING THE OFFICES.

According to the report of the special committee to designate the uses of the several rooms in the Nebraska building the first floor of the building will contain the following: Headquarters for the educational department; headquarters for the Nebraska Press association, telegraph and telephone rooms, postoffice, men's waiting room and toilet room, free check room, women's waiting room and toilet room, intelligence office, general registration room. On the second floor will be rooms set apart as follows: Private room and reception room for the governor, headquarters for the Nebraska Exposition commission, cloak room for the commission, a room for women's clubs and societies, office for the hostess of the building and the official stenographer, a room for a large collection of Indian relics belonging to the late General Crook. The north wall of the balcony on this floor will be occupied by the Nebraska Historical society, with a display of interesting relics. The report also finds that there is room in the angles and alcoves on both floors of the building for about twenty desks for the use of such fraternal societies as may desire to take advantage of this opportunity establishing headquarters in this building.

EMPLOYES NEEDED.

The force of employes to be engaged for the Nebraska building, includes one hostess at $75 per month, one assistant hostess at $60, one custodian at $65, one postmistress at $50, three janitors at $45 each, two policemen at $50 each, two messenger boys at $25 each, one clerk in the intelligence office at $60, two employes in the check rooms at $40 each, one porter at $1.50 per day, one general registry clerk at $50 per month.

The commission met in executive session last night to consider the report of the committee appointed at the last meeting to decide upon the number of employes required. The special committee found that in addition to the assistant secretary, bookkkeeper​ and typewriter, the care of the building will require forty-four employes, whose salary to the close of the exposition will aggregate $5,527.50. The amounts set apart for salaries in the several departments were as follows: Educational, $1,720; agriculture, $1,640; floriculture, $1,120; horticulture, $1,420; live stock, $770; dairy, $700; poultry, $230; apiary, $755; total salaries of employes, $13,607.50. Employes now on rolls, twenty, leaving twenty-four to be employed. The committee recommended that the total number of employes be divided among the six congressional districts in the state and that each member name the employes in his district, taking into account the number heretofore appointed.

The estimates for the expenses of the several departments were allowed as follows: Educational, $2,157.38; floriculture, $1,000; poultry, $600; apiary, $975; agriculture, $1,196.17; live stock, $3,000; dairy, $1,875; horticulture, $6,000; total, $16,803.55.

The salaries of the commissioners and expenses provided for by former action and by this report aggregated $93,093.51, leaving a balance of the appropriation amounting to $6,906.49.

The report of the committee was adopted, it being 11:30 p. m. when the doors were opened.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DOINGS.

Program for the Opening Exercises Prepared by President is Endorsed.

The program for the exercises in connection with the opening of the Transmississippi and International Exposition has been ratified by the executive committee as prepared by President Wattles and the nature of the exercises which will inaugurate an enterprise fraught with such importance to the great transmississippi region is now definitely settled.

According to this program the exercises will commence with a grand military and civic parade participated in by organized bodies of all kinds, a large number of which have already signified their intention of coming to Omaha from other points. This parade will form down town at 10 o'clock on the morning of June 1, and will pass through the principal streets of the city to the exposition grounds, reaching there at 12 o'clock.

The exercises at the grounds will commence as soon as the parade reaches that point. These exercises will consist of music, prayer and the reading of an original poem composed for the reading of an original poem composed for the occasion and read by the author. President Wattles will deliver an appropriate address, followed by an oration by Chauncey M. Depew of New York. An address by Senator W. V. Allen will complete the oratorical portion of the program and communication will be opened by long distance telephone with President McKinley at Washington. The president will, at the proper moment, close the electric circuit which will start the machinery of the exposition and fire a grand salute to announce to the world that the Transmississippi and International Exposition has been opened promptly on time and is ready for the inspection of the multitudes.

At 3 o'clock the officers of the exposition and their wives will hold a reception on the grounds for the many distinguished guests and the inaugural exercises will be concluded.

Invitations to Messrs. Depew and Allen to participate in the opening exercises have been sent forward and favorable replies are anticipated.

In addition to taking action on the program for the opening day, the executive committee yesterday approved the action of President Wattles in calling upon the Commercial club to take the initiative in the matter of erecting a large convention hall down town for the use of the scores of conventions and congresses which will meet in Omaha during the coming summer. The committee authorized the president, in case the Commercial club agrees to take hold of the matter to pledge the support of the exposition to the scheme to the extent of $3,000, with the understanding that the hall is to be under the control of the exposition to the extent of providing for the conventions and congresses referred to.

The contract for painting and calsomining the interior of the buildings in the main court was awarded to W. H. Woerheide, the lowest bidder for the work.

Manager Reed was authorized to made a contract for a concession for a canal 1,000 feet in length which is to be bordered with California scenery and displays of California fruit of all kinds and other California products.

Chinese Actors Coming.

An Associated Press dispatch from Port Townsend, Wash., announces that the steamship Kienshin Maru arrived at that port from Hong Kong and Yokohama, bringing as passengers thirty Chinese actors who are the vanguard of 400 soon to land in the United States to participate in the exposition.

These actors are a part of the company which will occupy the Chinese village on the Midway, for which Hong Sling has the concession. Sling is expected in the city in the near future to being the work of erecting the Chinese village.

Wong Chin Foo, the Chinese commissioner, who has made plans for an elaborate display of Chinese goods and manufactured articles on the bluff tract, has written that he will be in the city in a few days to begin active preparations.

Tennessee Commission Organizes.

The Tennessee Exposition commission has organized by electing as chairman J. T. Essary, state commissioner of agriculture, and W. T. Davis as secretary. Mr. Davis, in addition to serving as secretary, will have charge of the educational department, a position which he filled in the Nashville exposition. In a letter to the Department of Exhibits, Secretary Davis says the Tennessee commission has appointed a committee to visit Omaha and make arrangements for an exhibit, which committee, he says, will reach Omaha in a few days.

More Western Beauties.

The contributions to the composite photograph which is to form the model for the woman's head on the exposition medal continue to be received by the Department of Ways and Means. The photographs of Mrs. Adelaide de Luna of Nex​ Mexico, Miss May Crossen of Carson City, Nev., and Miss Nevada Ryland of Reno, Nev., are the latest contributions, and these have been forwarded to New York to be merged into the composite picture.

Ask[?]

Manager Babcock of the Transportation department has written to the officials of the Union Pacific railway asking that the old car which served as a means of conveying the remains of the martyred president, Abraham Lincoln, on its last journey from Washington to Springfield, Ill., be resurrected from the scrap heap in the Union Pacific yards and put in condition for exhibition at the exposition.

Meeting of the Chorus.

The exposition chorus met last night in the assembly room in the city hall and rehearsed the heaviest parts of Strainer's "Daughter of Jairus." Owing to the severity of the weather there was a noticeable diminution of feminine voices, but those present worked hard nevertheless. Willard Kimball of Lincoln, the exposition musical director, was present, but the rehearsal was conducted by T. J. Kelly.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Department of Exhibits is preparing the rules for the Dairy bureau, and these will be promulgated within a few days. The premium list for short horn cattle will be issued in a day or two.

S. D. Kramer of Chicago, a music publisher, writes that he is about to publish a march entitled "Salute to Omaha," and he asks the privilege of calling it the official march of the exposition and placing on the title page a cut of one of the main buildings.

The rush of business in the several departments of the exposition has made it necessary to provide many of the departments with telephones, and the list of exposition 'phones is as follows: President's office, 1441; Transportation department, 2072; Concessions department, 1896; Buildings and Grounds department, 1899; Electrical bureau, 1875; secretary's office, 1898.

E. W. McConnell, a cyclorama expert, has arrived in the city to take charge of the construction of the cyclorama which will be erected on the Midway. This building will be 400 feet in circumference and about 45 feet in height. Construction on it will be commenced at once, and Mr. McConnell says everything will be in readiness for opening by May 25. The cyclorama will contain a scene showing the battle between the Merrimac and Monitor.

Gold Imports at New York.

NEW YORK, March 23.—Heidelback, Eickelheimer & Co. have announced $175,000; Lazard-Freeres, $125,000, and the National city bank, $100,000 in gold engaged for import.

WOMEN AN DEXPOSITION​ WORK.

Mrs. Henrotin Discusses Their Relation Before Woman's Club.

The First Congregational church was crowded last evening with the members of the Woman's club, friends and escorts, who gathered to hear an address by Mrs. Ellen M. Henrotin of Chicago, president of the General Federation of Woman's clubs. After a simple and graceful word of introduction from Mrs. Harford, president of the Omaha Woman's club, Mrs. Henrotin responded to the Chautauqua salute which was given her, and without preamble entered upon the discussion of a subject which, though she declined to state it, was chiefly concerned with expositions and women.

She touched upon the first great exposition instituted by the prince consort of England, and spoke of its effect in rousing other nations, noticeably Austria, to more industrial enterprise. She passed on to the Centennial at Philadelphia, associating with it the claims of the recent artistic development of this country and explaining how women were given association with it "if they would raise the money." She dwelt for a moment upon the late French exposition, where the women were permitted to hold a congress; a man, however, the commissioner of instruction, having been provided to preside and keep order, and reached the climax of her history in the Columbian exposition. Here, she said, began a movement in the governmental recognition of women, for every great government appointed its women commissioners. This fact was largely due to the tact of Mrs. Potter Palmer, whom she characterized as "a statesman."

Mrs. Henrotin thought the material exhibit in the Woman's building scarcely representative of woman's work—which is not of a material sort. "A woman," she said, "is not an originator, she is a co-ordinator. Look how she brings into relation the parts of education. A few years ago higher education was a thing apart, now women bring the child from the kindergarten into the higher education. The one is a part of the other."

From this point the speaker elaborated the history of the club movement. Forty years ago man brought into the home the raw material and women converted it to living uses. Spinning, weaving, dressmaking, nursing, all the industrial functions were developed in the home, but gradually, as factories assumed these function, the woman grew out of her position as an economic factor. From being a producer she became a money spender. Then came her desire for training, for education, which grew at last into the idea that knowledge to be valuable must be transmitted. Hence the large department club.

Illustrations were given of the altruistic work of these clubs. "Giving and receiving are one," said the speaker. "A woman brings to the club her best —a sacred and beautiful thing—but whatever it is she simply follows her bent, which is constuctive​, educational, nonresisting."

Mrs. Henrotin is a slight, graceful woman, with a pleasant voice, which she uses without effort. She was charming last evening in a gown of brocaded satin and mouseline de soie of a delicate pink color.

At the conclusion of Mrs. Henrotin's address the president introduced "our own Mrs. Stoutenborough" of Plattsmouth, president of the Nebraska Fereration​ of Clubs, who was received with applause and the Chautauqua salute. She said she looked through country, and not city, spectacles, and then she went on to say how large a factor she believed the Woman's club to be in moulding the intellectual life of the small community. She answered convincingly the objector who believes the club hinders the woman's work in the church and that other critic who thinks the club interferes with home duties "Society may endanger the home life," she said, "so may dress, but the club never does; we do better teaching than that."

After recess the platform was cleared and Miss Stella Hamilton announced a drama to be given by the younger women of the club. It consisted of a representation of the various nations of the earth in consultation with Columbia over the Transmississippi Exposition. Miss Harford as England, Miss Byrne as Germany, Miss Chandler as France, Mrs. Caldwell as Holland and Mrs. Patrick as Columbia has leading parts and the performance was enlivened by local specialties, by a song from Scotland—Mrs. Fitt—and by "The Choir Invisible," which in the persons of Messrs. Wheeler, Hazelton, Copeland and Haverstock discoursed music just outside the door. The major domo, Miss Allen, assisted as a whistler in the closing ode, "Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean," and the audience rose and joined in the chorus, after which most of those present came forward to be presented individually to Mrs. Henrotin.

Mrs. Henrotin was entertained at luncheon at the Millard by the Woman's club today. She will return to Chicago tonight.

HOME FOR THE FINNY TRIBES

FISH EXHIBIT AT THE EXPOSITION

Arranging the Big Tanks Which Will Form the Government's Aquarium is Now Well Under Way.

Active preparations are being made for the exhibit to be made by the Fish commission in the Government building. The nature and extent of this exhibit make it necessary to make rather elaborate preparations for the installation of the finny tribes which will take up their residence in the Government building some time during the month of May. Mr. G. A. Snyder, an officer of the Fish commission, is in the city to give the work his personal supervision and under his direction the work is rapidly taking form.

The fish exhibit will occupy the west half of the north wing of the Government building. The aquarium for the display of live fish will naturaly​ form the most attractive portion of this exhibit, and it is in connection with this that the preparations spoken of are being made. This aquarium will form three sides of a rectangle, the long side being about ninety feet in length and the two shorter sides being each thirty feet long. Entrance will be had through the outer ends of the short sides. The entrances to the aquarium will be handsomely finished with imitation rock work, having the appearance of entrances to a tunnel, with a high arch surmounted by a statue representing Neptune, while at the base of the arch, on either side of the entrance, will be mermaids and dolphins and other ornamental figures. The interior of the tunnel will be constructed to represent rock work. At either side will be a long row of glass tanks resting on a base of rough rocks, while from the top of the tanks will spring the arch of the tunnel. The arch will be hung with stalactites and the whole character of the tunnel will be that of a passageway through an underground cavern.

WILL MAKE FISH VISIBLE.

The only light in this tunnel will be that which penetrates through the glass tanks and the water contained in them. The bottom of each tank will be covered with white sand and the back will be painted a light color. Shells and other natural objects will be strewn about to give the tank the appearance of nature. The effect of this construction will be to make the inhabitants of the tanks plainly visible. In the angles formed at the turns in the tunnel will be large circular tanks, which will be decorated with aquatic growth and lighted by clusters of electric lights. Bright colored fish will swim about in these tanks, reflecting the rays of light from their glistening sides.

To properly instal land​ maintain this aquarium for the display of live fish requires an immense amount of detail work. In order to keep the water in the tanks at the proper temperature and in proper condition as to cleanliness it is necessary to install a complete outfit of machinery. The sea water especially requires considerably attention. It is shipped here in large tank cars and is used over and over, every drop of it being carefully saved until the exposition is over. It is passed through a coil which brings it to the proper temperature and is then introduced into the tanks, the overflow being caught by troughs beneath the tanks and returned to the large reservoir beneath the floor of the building. After passing through a filter which removes all the foreign matter, it is pumped into a large reservoir above the aquarium, and thence through the temperature coils to the tanks. In the tanks the water is aerated by means of rubber tubes fitted with wooden ends. Air is forced into these tubes and finds its way out through the pores of the wood, permeating all of the water. About 40,000 gallons of sea water is required to keep the tanks full and supply the system of reservoirs used in connection with the plant.

FOR FRESH WATER FISH.

The fresh water is fed into a reservoir and passes from this through cooling coils where the temperature is lowered to the proper point fo rthe​ cold water fish, such as brook trout, etc., or through other coils which changes the temperature to such point as may be required. It then passes into the glass tanks, an dfrom​ thence into a waste pipe which carries the overflow to the lagoon.

The tanks in which the fish will be shown are in Omaha, having been shipped here from Nashville when that exposition was closed. They will be put in position very soon. The machinery for the plant is expected daily and this will be installed as soon as received.

The display of live fish is not the only showing that will be made by the Fish commission. In the space enclosed by the sides of the tunnel will be shown stuffed fish and casts of all kinds of fish and marine monsters. Models of vessels used by the commission for investigating the depths of the ocean and models of fish hatcheries and numerous other appliances used by the commission will be shown.

EXHIBITS BEGINNING TO ARRIVE.

First Installment from the East Comes in Unexpectedly.

The first installment of exhibits has arrived. Several prospective exhibitors from New York shipped a number of show cases which arrived to perplex the Exhibits department. None of the buildings on the grounds are in shape to receive exhibits, as the painting of the interior is yet to be done. Contracts for this work has been executed, but it will be several days before the first building is completed. The Mines building is in the hands of the painters and will be finished on the inside in a short time, but in the meantime the goods in question will ha evto​ be stored down town. The warehouse of the Transportation department has not yet been located, and no plans have ben​ made for it, but the arrival of th eexhibits​ referred to will probably hasten this work.

In the same connection Superintendent E. D. Johnson of the Agricultural bureau of the Nebraska commission, appeared at exposition headquarters and aske dto​ be shown the space assigned to Nebraska in the Agriculture building. As that building has not been accepted from the contractor he was asked to wait a little longer before beginning his work of installing the Nebraska exhibit.

Managers Return from the East.

Manager Z. T. Lindsey of the Ways and Means department and Manager Rosewater, of the Publicity and Promotion department have returned from an extended trip in the east in the interest of the exposition. The results accomplished by this trip have already been announced in the telegraphic dispatches in The Bee and there is little to be added. The Indian bureau is proceeding in its preparations for the great Indian congress as though the bill had been passed, the officials having assurances that it will become a law very soon. The officers of the mint at Philadelphia are preparing the dies for the exposition medals and the Postoffice department is rushing work on the special exposition postage stamps, which will be issued about May 15. Negotiations are pending for the services of the Marine band and no doubt is entertained about this famous organization being seen at the exposition.

Bids on Additional Buildings.

Bids were opened at the office of the Department of Buildings and Grounds at noon for the construction of the Arch of States and exedra forming the main entrance to the grounds and the new building to be erected on Twentieth street north of the Manufactures building, to be known as International hall. The bids were as follows:

Arch of States and exedra: Carpentry—Asa Philpot, $3,175; R. C. Strehlow, $3,350; George Moore & Sons, $7,555; Thomas Herd, $3,700; William Goldie & Sons company, $4,470. Staff—Frank A. Siefert, $3,301; Smith & Eastman, $3,125; Alexander & Son, $5,175.

International Hall: Carpentry—Westlake Construction company, $6,160; R. C. Strehlow, $6,475; George Moore & Sons, $7,986.50;   Asa Philpot, $5,450; A. G. Wahlstrom, Thomas Herd, $5,775; William Goldie & Sons company, $6,440. Staff—Frank A. Siefert, $3,381; Smith & Eastman, $1,496; Alexander & Son, $4,163.

OLD COLISEUM FOR CONVENTIONS.

Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Willing to Give Up Their Den.

The Coliseum may be transformed into a huge convention hall to accommodate the bigger gatherings to be held here during the coming summer. This possibility is a result of a joint meeting of members of the exposition board, Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben and Commercial club yesterday afternoon. The meeting was attended by Mayor Moores, G. D. Wattles, W. R. Bennett, J. E. Utt, G. A. Andreesen, C. A. Wilhelm, Clement Chase, J. E. Baum and Major Wilcox.

The meeting was called for the purpose of devising some means of securing or building a large hall. All the discussion centered about the Coliseum building, however, from the fact that the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben offered to turn it over for the purpose on condition that they were provided with suitable quarters for the construction of floats and for their meetings. These quarters will be in the shape of sheds about the building.

No conclusion was reached, but Major Wilcox and President Wattles of the exposition were appointed a committee to visit the Coliseum and its surroundings for the purpose of making an estimate of the cost of transforming the building into a convention hall and of erecting sheds. This committee will report at a meeting to be held this afternoon at 4 o'clock.

It is believed that the Coliseum will afford a suitable and big enough hall if the cost of putting it into shape is not too large. The building will seat about 10,000 people.

Evidences Interest of Texans.

Dr. George L. Miller has received a letter from Allen Blacker of El Paso, Tex., which indicates the remarkable interest of Texas people in the Transmississippi Exposition. Mr. Blacker was thirty years ago a prominent citizen of Omaha and is now as prominent in the southern state. During the last presidential campaign he was the political editor of the El Paso Tribune.

Mr. Blacker wrote to Dr. Miller for the purpose of securing some facts about the exposition and cuts of the main buildings to be used in a special exposition edition the Tribune proposes to issue. His request was turned over to the Department of Publicity of the exposition which will supply the Tribune with everything wanted. In the letter Mr. Blacker writes:

"Texas proposes to attend largely and is now organizing for the work. The publisher of the El Paso Tribune is contemplating a Nebraska-Texas edition and asks me to assist him in the work. We calculate upon an edition of 20,000. There will be a large attendance from Texas at the exposition if it is not too expensive, and a very creditable contribution, whatever it may cost. Texas has surpluses to exchange with Nebraska, besides a large coast which Texans fondly compare with the Mediterranean."

Railroads Help Advertise.

The large lithographed bird's-eye view of the exposition grounds just issued by the Department of Publicity and Promotion is in great demand by the railroads. The Burlington and Northwestern roads have each applied for 2,000 of these for posting in the large towns along their lines and in their stations. The Elkhorn has also asked for a large supply. These lithographs are not for general distribution, and the department is having great difficulty in supplying the demand for them. They are being posted in every nook and corner of the United States, and are put in such a way that they will be preserved for a long time.

WORKING UP THE CONGRESSES

WOMEN'S COMMITTEES VERY ACTIVE

Delegates to the Federation Meeting at Denver Will Visit in Omaha for Two Days in June.

Arrangements for the congress of Woman's clubs, to be held in connection with the exposition, are in an advanced stage, and the preliminary details have been worked out. The presence in Omaha of Mrs. Henrotin, president of the National Federation of Woman's Clubs, has contributed very materially to the efforts of the congress committee to perfect the details of this meeting.

The congress will be held June 18 and 19. Arrangements have been made, whereby the special trains from Boston, New York, Chicago, St. Louis, Minneapolis and other points, carrying their loads of delegates to the meeting of the National Federation of Woman's Clubs at Denver, will stop in Omaha, June 18, for the purpose of enabling all these women to attend the congress and visit the exposition. The morning will be given up to a visit to the exposition and in the afternoon the first session of the congress will be held in the Auditorium on the exposition grounds. In the evening a session will be held at some point downtown. Both sessions will be devoted to the discussion of economic questions, and the congress committee have well grounded hopes that Mrs. Clara de Graffenreid, assistant to Carroll D. Wright, United States commissioner of labor, will address one of these meetings.

June 19, being Sunday, no meeting of the congress will be held in the morning, but in the afternoon there will be a session at some point downtown, which will be addressed by Mrs. Celia Parker Wooley and Mrs. Caroline Bartlett Crane.

The congress committee has also made progress with the formation of a Woman's Christian Temperance Union congress. The general committee of arrangements and the local committee have been appointed and the work of arranging the program will be taken up. The general committee consists of these women: Mrs. Helen M. Barker of Chicago, treasurer of the National Waman's​ Christian Temperance union; Mrs. Louise S. Rounds of Illinois, Mrs. Mary J. Telford of Colorado, Miss Bell Kearney of Mississippi, and Mrs. Mary C. Upham of Wisconsin. This committee is charged with the duty of preparing the program for the congress and fixing the date for the event. The local committee which will have charge of the entertainment of the congress, comprises the following women: Mrs. S. M. Walker of Lincoln, president of the Nebraska Woman's Christian Temperance union; Rev. Mary Girard Andrews of Omaha, president of the Omaha union; Dr. Freda Lankton and Mrs. George Tilden of Omaha, and Mrs. E. B. Towle of South Omaha.

ASSISTANCE FROM WASHINGTON.

Government Officials Do All They Can to Aid the Work.

Congressman D. H. Mercer has written to President Wattles regarding securing from the War department the tents necessary for the military encampment which is to be maintained in connection with the exposition. It is proposed to equip the camp grounds with tents and various other necessaries and an effort is being made to induce the War department to loan the exposition the necessary tents for the occasion. Mr. Mercer writes that the matter can probably be arranged. He says Assistant Secretary of War Meiklejohn has taken hold of the matter and the prospect for securing the tents is promising.

Mr. Mercer also writes concerning the projected special trains from Washington to Omaha for bringing to the exposition on the opening day the Washington correspondents of the great metropolitan newspapers and the members of both houses of congress. The congressman says that E. C. Snyder, the Washington correspondent of The Bee, has been commissioned by the Department of Publicity and Promotion to take up the eastern end of the negotiations with the railroads and has the matter well in hand. Mr. Mercer says he is lending the movement all the assistance in his power and believes it is the best move that could possibly be made. He says that Washington is the temporary home of the brightest and brainiest newspaper men in the world, and they are enthusiastic over the idea of making such a trip to Omaha under such circumstances, and have made many inquiries regarding the matter. Mr. Mercer declares that such a move would be the best advertisement that the exposition could possibly secure, and he urges that nothing be left undone to carry it to a successful issue.

Assistant Secretary of War Meiklejohn urged this same matter upon the exposition officials when he was in Omaha and emphasized very strongly the great advantage the exposition would derive from the widespread advertisement given the opening of the great show in all the big papers of the country.

SPACE IN NEBRASKA BUILDING.

Secretary Campbell Makes an Explanation to the Public.

Secretary Campbell of the Nebraska Exposition commission is greatly annoyed by reports which are being circulated by unknown parties to the effect that the Nebraska commission is charging for exhibit space in the Nebraska building on the bluff tract. Mr. Campbell wants it distinctly understood that no exhibits are allowed in the Nebraska building under any circumstances and consequently no charge can be made for space in the building for exhibits. The building is intended solely for social functions and to serve as headquarters for Nebraskans and such others as desire to avail themselves of Nebraska's hospitality. The Nebraska Historical society and the owner of the extensive collection of Indian curios gathered by the late General Crook have been given space in the building in which to exhibit the rare and curious articles comprising these collections, but these are in the nature of decorations rather than exhibits in the ordinary sense. With these exceptions no exhibits will be allowed in the building.

The secretary also wishes to remind those desiring to exhibit Nebraska products that space is furnished free in the main exposition buildings by the Nebraska commission upon application to the proper superintendent and free transportation is furnished by the railroads to and from the exposition.

Texas Contributes a Beauty.

The photographs of the representative beauties of the transmississippi states still continue to come to Manager Lindsey of the Department of Ways and Means for use in making the composite photograph which is to represent the embodiment of the beauty of the entire west. The latest acquisition is the portrait of Miss Ida May Archer of Austin, Tex., whose photograph has been forwarded to New York to be included in the composite photograph for the exposition medal.

Pennsylvanians Make Plans.

Former residents of Pennsylvania now living in Omaha and vicinity are preparing to make a showing at the exposition. While they will not take any steps looking to the erection of a building, they will establish headquarters on the grounds, where they will receive the visitors from the Keystone state, and extend to them such favors as may seem meet and proper.

At noon today a number met in the rooms of Superintendent Houck in the court house and formulated plans. While committees were not named, it was decided to have a man at headquarters constantly, for the purpose of giving information concerning the exposition, the city, county and the state. Later on a meeting will be held at which officers will be elected and the program for entertaining will be outlined.

Samples from Montana.

The shipment of minerals from Montana for the exposition has commenced, and the great samples of products from the mines of Montana will begin to arrive in Omaha within a few days. A striking feature of the first shipment of material was a five-ton block of coal and a 5,000-pound slab of copper matte. The coal was taken from the Sand Coulee Coal company's mine at Sand Coulee. It is eight feet long, six feet wide and four and one-half feet thick. It is bituminous coal and weighs five tons. The slab of copper matte is from the Anaconda works at Anaconda. Mr. Sutherlin, vice president for Montana, has returned home and will commence at once the shipment of his exhibits to Omaha.

Railroads Help Advertise.

The large lithographed bird's-eye view of the exposition grounds just issued by the Department of Publicity and Promotion is in great demand by the railroads. The Burlington and Northwestern roads have each applied for 2,000 of these for posting in the large towns along their lines and in their stations. The Elkhorn has also asked for a large supply. These lithographs are not for general distribution, and the department is having great difficulty in supplying the demand for them. They are being posted in every nook and corner of the United States, and are put in such a way that they will be preserved for a long time.

Arizona People Wake Up.

The Chamber of Commerce of Phoenix, Ariz., has taken up the matter of having that territory represented at the exposition, and has appealed to the governor to appoint a commission of three members to see that an exhibit is made. The business men will be called on to raise a fund of $2,000 with the understanding that the legislature will refund the amount subscribed. The meeting at which this action was taken was attended by General C. F. Manderson and C. E. Llewellyn, the representative of the Department of Publicity and Promotion of the ex-[?]

ARIZONA MAKES A GOOD START.

Exhibit for the Exposition is Already Well Provided.

Special Commissioner C. E. Llewellyn of the Publicity and Promotion department of the exposition returned Sunday from New Mexico and Arizona, where he went to arouse those sections from the apathy which seemed to have overtaken them. He met with encouraging success in both territories and says that both of these sections will be handsomely represented at the exposition. The governor of Arizona appointed a strong commission of representative men and has agreed to ask the legislature to reimburse subscribers to a fund for making a state exhibit. In this way it is believed that no difficulty will be encountered in raising all the money that is needed. The magnificent exhibit of mineral and other imperishable articles shown at the World's fair is still intact and is stored in Phenix​. This will be augmented by additions in all lines and will make a splendid nucleus which will be shown together with samples of agricultural and horticultural products.

A prominent feature of the Arizona exhibit will be a large collection of onyx from a large mine of that precious stone owned by B. Heyman of Phenix​. The stone taken from this mine is of exceptional excellence and Mr. Heyman has promised to make a special collection of samples for the state exhibit.

In New Mexico Mr. Llewellyn found matters in a somewhat tangled condition owing to the peculiar tactics of the vice president of that territory, who has been running things without the knowledge or consent of the other commissioners. The difficulty was adjusted, however, and a working organization perfected. Mr. Llewellyn says that the exhibit made by this territory will be a most creditable one.

LABOR TROUBLE IS ADJUSTED.

Conference Between Exposition and Union Representatives Satisfactory.

The conference yesterday between a special committee representing the exposition, Messrs. Kirkendall, Rosewater and Wattles, and a committee from the Building Trades council, Messrs. Breen, Shrum and Bell, resulted in an amicable agreement on all points of difference. The Building Trades council had charged that the electrical bureau was employing laborers to make the boxes for underground conduits and that the wages being paid electrical workers did not comply with the union scale.

After a conference lasting but a short time all differences were adjusted and it was agreed that carpenters should be employed for all work that can be classified as carpenter work, those employed to receive the regular scale for carpenters. Regarding the electrical workers a compromise was agreed on. The men who have been employed have been working ten hours and have been receiving $2.25 and $2.50 per day, according to their efficiency. It was agreed that those working on the outside shall receive $2.50 per day and those working inside shall receive $2.25 per day, eight hours to constitute a day's work, and overtime, not exceeding two hours, to be paid for at the same rate. The contention of the labor representatives was that these men should receive 30 cents per hour and that eight hours should constitute a day's work.

ARKANSAS GETTING ALON GNICELY​.

Secretary Mathews Writes Enthusiastically of the Prospects.

Secretary W. D. Mathews of the Arkansas Exposition commission writes most enthusiastically regarding the progress in exposition work that is being made in his state. He says the commission is meeting with the most encouraging responses in all quarters to its efforts to arouse the people and secure funds and maerials​ for exhibits and the state will be on time with an extensive exhibit in all lines.

Secretary Mathews and George Sengel of Fort Smith visited St. Louis recently and interested the officials of the Missouri Pacific and the St. Louis & San Francisco railwasy​ in the Arkansas exhibit, inducing those roads to join with the state comisison​ in making a fine showing. The railway officials agreed to this plan and gave the commission substantial assistance in the way of funds, thus assuring a fine exhibit by the state.

Mr. Dodge writes that he will have charge of the display made by the Agriculture department, which he says will be one of the finest displays ever made by that branch of the government.

Show of Commercially Useful Fibers.

Charles Richards Dodge, the special agent of the Department of Agriculture in charge of fibre investigations, writes to President Wattles that he has been granted authority by the secretary of agriculture to loan to the exposition the thirty-two panels in the possession of the department which show all the commercial fibres of the world. These panels are contained in glass cases and will be shipped in their cases with the other material contained in the exhibit made by the Agriculture department in the Government building.

These panels will be displayed in the Agriculture building in connection with the extensive exhibit of commercial bre​ and fibre machinery which has ben​ arranged for. This display will be under the charge of Mr. Dodge and will form a most instructive exhibit of the cultivation and uses of various fibres.

At the conclusion of the reading of the message, Mr. Davis (Minn.), chairman of the committee on foreign relations, amid a buzz of whispered conversation, rose and requested that the findings of the court of inquiry be read. In reading the findings the clerk experienced great difficulty, as they had not been placed in typewritten form and were blindly written.

Mr. Lodge, (Mass.) introduced a resolution that 2,000 additional copies of the message, findings and testimony be printed for use of the senate. The resolution was agreed to.

Storm Stops Outside Work.

The storm interfered seriously with all outside work on the exposition grounds and all work of this nature was stopped about noon Sunday. Outside work was resumed gradually as the snow melted in exposed portions and by noon today the work was in full blast except in some portions of the ground where road work could not be carried on because of the snow and mud.

Firemen's Board to Meet.

A meeting of the Board of Managers of the called to meet in Omaha, April 9 and 10, to discuss with the exposition authorities the details of the proposed national tournament to be held in Omaha during the summer. President Fred A. Wood of Cedar Rapids has issued the call.

INDIAN BUREAU IS ACTIVE

GETS READY FOR THE INDIAN CONGRESS

Appropriation for the Great Ethnological Exhibit is Anticipated by the Authorities and Preliminaries Are Arranged.

The Indian bureau of the Interior department and the Department of Publicity and Promotion of the exposition are actively engaged in working out the details of the Indian congress which is provided for by an item in the Indian appropriation bill, carrying an appropriation of $45,000 for the congress. Captain W. A. Mercer, U. S. A., who will have direct charge of the congress under the direction of the Indian bureau, will be in Omaha tomorrow to select the ground for the encampment and to consult with the exposition officials regarding the arrangements for this noted gathering of the tribes. There is every reasonable assurance that the appropriation for the congress will be made and preparations are being made on this theory. Commissioner Jones is expected to be in Omaha in the near future on business in connection with this congress and other matters of vital concern to the people of this section.

A letter which is being sent by Indian Commissioner W. A. Jones to the agent at each Indian agency gives an idea of the manner in which the Indian office is preparing for the greatest ethnological exhibition ever attempted in the world. This letter has reference only to the permanent encampment of Indians during the entire time of the congress; other details are being considered which contemplate the assembling at Omaha, for short periods, of other features of the congress which are not covered by this letter. The following is the full text of the letter:

There is now pending in congress, as an amendment to the Indian appropriation bill for the next fiscal year, an item authorizing and requiring the secretary of the interior to cause to be assembled at Omaha, Neb., as a part of the Transmississippi and International Exposition, to be held from June 1 to November 1 next, representatives of different Indian tribes of the United States. An appropriation of $45,000 is proposed to carry said provision into effect.

It is the purpose of the promoters of the proposed encampment or congress to make an extensive exhibit illustrative of the mode of life, native industries and ethnic traits of as many of the aboriginal American tribes as possible; to that end it is proposed to bring together selected families or groups from all the principal tribes, and camp them in tepees, wigwams, hogans, etc., on the exposition grounds, and there permit them to conduct their domestic affairs as they do at home, and make and sell their wares for their own profit.

TO MAINTAIN PRISTINE PURITY.

It is represented that the Indian tribes are rapidly passing away or modifying their original habits and industries by adopting those of civilization; that there are yet many tribes within our borders whose quaint habits and mode of life, which have remained poetically unchanged since the days of Columbus, are little known to the majority of our own people; and that an assemblage of the kind proposed would not only be beneficial to the Indians participating, but would be supremely interesting, as well as profitable, to the large body of people in attendance, both by portraying to them the arts and characteristics of savage life, and by showing them the difficulties of the problem confronting the Indian department in its efforts to educate and civilize the Indian.

This department is in hearty accord with the plan of holding such a congress of American Indian tribes, and it is the earnest desire of the office, and of the secretary of the interior as well, that the same should be a complete success in every feature. There is little doubt that the appropriation for the purpose will be made, and as the time left within which to arrange for a creditable exhibit is very short, I deem it most desirable that the preliminary preparations should be commenced at once.

The first step will be to select the families or groups of Indians who are to represent their respective tribes at the encampment. This you will proceed to do without delay, so that the Indians may begin the collection of such articles and materials as they may wish to bring with them.

It is desired that the encampment should be as thoroughly aboriginal in every respect as practicable, and that the primitive traits and characteristics of the several tribes should be distinctively set forth. This point should be constantly kept in view in the selection of the Indians and in the collection of materials.

The Indians chosen to attend must be full bloods and should be good types of their respective tribes, consisting preferably of leading men or chiefs and their families. The latter should be made up of man, wife and one or two (never more than three) minor children. Should it be impracticable to so select the families as to make the required delegation, several single young men may be included. In other words, while it is desirable that family groups and family life should be portrayed, it would be preferable that at least a majority of the delegation consist of adults.

CARE IN SELECTION.

Only Indians of good morals and habits should be selected and, most important of all, they must be strictly temperate.

They should bring native dress, if possible. They should also bring their native domiciles or the materials with which to make them. If this is impracticable as to some of the materials, the Indians should know how and be able to construct their dwellings from materials to be furnished on the grounds.

They should also bring the necessary articles with which to furnish and decorate their tepees or other domiciles. As this will be a most interesting part of the exhibit, the furnishings should be as attractive and complete as possible. The necessary materials for carrying on their native arts should also be brought, so that they may engage in making articles for sale on the grounds. Where this cannot be done they may bring things illustrative of their craft in reasonable quantities for sale.

A collection of implements and emblems of warfare would also be extremely interesting and where it can be arranged with any degree of completeness it is suggested that such collection be brought. Articles to which a historical interest attaches for any reason should also be brought, if practicable.

The Indians will not, of course, be at any expense for transportation to or from the exposition or for expenses of living while in attendance there, and they will be well cared for.

It is hoped that your interest in this congress of Indians may be fully enlisted and that the representation from your agency may be thoroughly attractive and typical of the native mode of life and dress of the tribe or tribes. You will, if necessary, assist the Indians in collecting and arranging the things to be taken to the encampment. It is felt that the success of the congress must depend, in a large measure, upon your own interest and zeal.

This letter is but preliminary, and it is expected that you will proceed without delay to select the Indians to attend and make other necessary preparations. Captain W. A. Mercer, U. S. A., will have charge of the encampment on the part of this department. Any inquiry or communication on the subject should be addressed to him at Omaha, Neb.

At least one member of the tribe selected should be able to speak English; if necessary, however, a mixed-blood interpreter may be sent instead, to serve, of course, without compensation, although his expenses will be paid as a member of the delegation.

PROMOTION WORK IN THE EAST.

New York's Commission Gets a Preliminary Expense Appropriation.

The Department of Publicity and Promotion is in receipt of information from Special Commissioner Bickford to the effect that the legislature of New York has appropriated $7,500 for the use of the New York Exposition commission in participating in the exposition. This sum is understood to be simply for the incidental expenses of the commission in concentrating the efforts being made in various parts of the state to make exhibits of various kinds. The commission is reported to be actively at work with every indication that   the showing made by New York will be a representaive​ and creditable one.

Commissioner Bickford will now turn his attention to Rhode Island and endeavor to induce the government of that state to take decisive action. The governor has indicated a disposition to take action if it is desired by the people of the state and Mr. Bickford expresses confidence that good results may be secured.

An agent of the Promotion department will be sent into Maryland and New Jersey to spur those states to action. Commissions have been appointed in both states, but a little more ginger seems to be required and this will be supplied by a departmental agent.

Special Commissioner R. W. Richardson will be sent to California to undertake the awakening of the northern part of the state. The southern counties, and especially Los Angeles county, are making active preparations for a most extensive exhibit of the resources of that section, including a fine exhibit of minerals. The Santa Fe railway has offered free transportation over its lines for minerals and a collection is being made.

Reports from Los Angeles show that the design for the fruit display of that section of California has been decided. It will represent an old southern California mission. The main archway will be surmounted by an elephant made of walnuts.

HANG FLAGS ON THE BUILDINGS.

Suggestion as to How the City May Be Beautified.

OMAHA, Neb., April 1.—To the Editor of The Bee: I arrived in the city from the east during the course of the state fair last year. Viewed from the Tenth street viaduct the flags floating from the tops of many buildings presented a most attractive sight. So much so that nearly every one in the crowd of passengers had some remark to make about it; residents to congratulate each other on the gala appearance of the city and strangers to inquire what the occasion was. Still, probably not more than one prominent building in five was decorated with a flag.

The people who come to the exposition will mostly enter the city by way of the Tenth street viaduct and from that point get a birdseye view of the city. The first impression is going to be good or bad, and whichever it may be it will take a good deal to wipe out this first impression. If when visitors enter the city they see flags and banners waving from the tops of all the high buildings, it will be taken by each as a sort of welcome to him or her; while, if the town puts on no external appearance of welcome it is sure to have a depressing effect on the newcomer.

One may talk all one pleases about the educational design of the exposition, but the fact remains that the vast majority of the visitors will come for a good time. The educational effect will be very great, but it will be incidental. From an artistic standpoint the exposition is going to be the most beautiful ever held. The design and arrangement of the buildings on the grounds have not been approached in any former exposition, but this will not satisfy the people. Five or six hours a day at most will be spent there. The city must put on its holiday garb and keep it on from June to November. No decoration is so effective, so artistic and at the same time so dignified as flags and banners waving from the tops of high buildings. Many of the highest buildings in the town are not supplied with flag staves. Every building of three stories and upwards should float a flag or banner of some king during the exposition. Nothing will give the visitor such a favorable first impression (and the first impression of the city is of first importance) and nothing will tend more to keep in his mind the idea of a hearty welcome.

If anyone has any doubt as to what the appearance would be if such an arrangement were carried out, let him stand on any of our principal streets and imagine a flag waving over every building of three stories and upward, but from no point can as good an idea of the effect be gathered as from the Tenth street viaduct.

CONTRACTS FOR MINOR BUILDINGS.

Work on Midway Attractions and State Homes Commences.

The contract for the construction of the Japanese tea garden on the bluff tract just north of the grand plaza will be let at once. Charles Lund of Chicago, the architect who designed the buildings and who will supervise the construction of the pagodas and other striking features of the concession, is in the city and is receiving bids for doing the necessary work. He will let the contract before leaving the city and work will be commenced without delay.

George Garnsey, another Chicago architect, the designer of the Chinese village, has arrived in the city with Contractor Dungan, who will begin at once the construction of the buildings constituting this village. This concession is located on the West Midway, a short distance east of Twentieth street, on the south side of the street.

Work has been commenced on the Montana state building on the bluff tract. Leo Bonet has the contract for this building and the lumber for it is now on the ground.

The Liggett & Meyer Tobacco company's building will be commenced at once. Leo Bonet has the contract for this handsome little structure and it will be completed within a short time. [?] city for the purpose of securing data from which to make another bird's-eye view of the grounds with all the improvements which have been made since the general arrangement of the grounds was planned.

Object of the Tea House.

T. Mizutany is in Omaha in the interests of the Central Japanese Tea association, which is building the Japanese tea house and garden on the bluff tract, east of the Moorish Palace. This company is supported by the Japanese government and is engaged in introducing Japanese teas in America and teaching their proper uses. The same company operated the tea garden in Chicago and the Omaha exhibit will be a reproduction of that one. Everything used in the tea house and garden will be brought directly from Japan, and it is expected that the bamboo, flags, lanterns and othe​ materials required will arrive in a short time. A Japanese curio house will also be operated in connection with this concession.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Chicago Tribune of yesterday contains a full page composite half-tone picture, showing views of the exposition grounds.

Will H. Lawler of Minneapolis, well known in Omaha, where he resided until within a few years, is in the city to secure a concession in connection with the exposition.

One of Missouri's Peculiar Exhibits.

Among the exhibits of minerals to be made at the exposition by Missouri will be specimens of ore from a mine in Madison county which has a peculiar interest just at this crisis in the history of the world. The mine is the only on in the United States producing nickel and cobalt, both of which are essential in the manufacture of the Harveyized steel used as armor for the battleships of this country, and every such plate used on the vessels of the navy has in it a portion of this product of Missouri.

The peculiar feature of the matter, just at this time is the fact that this mine was discovered and opened by the Spaniards when the section constituting Missouri was a part of the Spanish possessions. It is known as Mine Lamotte, and has been in operation over a century.

Citizens of Madison county are urging that the products of the mine be exhibited because its history is coincident with the history of the country which is most interested in the Transmississippi exposition. Mining Commissioner David T. Day and H. A. Stuckey, chairman of the mining committee of the Missouri commission, have been urged to include specimens from Mine Lamotte in the mining exhibit, and this will probably be done.

Illinois' Exposition Palace.

The Illinois exposition commissioners are exhibiting at different points in Illinois a handsome picture of the Illinois building on the exposition grounds, thereby arousing among the people of the Sucker state an interest in the exposition and a desire to come to Omaha to see the beautiful building which will serve as state headquarters and a place for meeting their friends from all parts of Illinois and all the other states.

Commissioner Kingman, who has direct charge of the furnishing and decorating of the building, says it will be furnished luxuriantly with carpets, curtains, rugs, easy chairs and all that goes to help make a comfortable and cozy place for tired humanity to rest itself.

St. Louis Apollo Club.

The St. Louis Republic of April 3 says the Apollo club of that city is making active preparations for coming to the exposition to take part in the musical program, as well as to have a good time. Chairman Walter Gilliam of the executive committee will visit Omaha, according to the Republic, to make arrangements for the trip. He will confer with the management of the musical department regarding the details of the arrangement and will laso​ confer with the management of the local railroads regarding arrangements for transportation for the club.

SERVICE BUILDING PLANS

ARCHITECTS' DESIGN FOR HEADQUARTERS

Commodious Structure Which Will Be Devoted to the Uses of the Working Forces on the Grounds.

The architects' drawings for the Service building on the exposition grounds are about completed and will be issued from the office of the architects-in-chief tomorrow. Bids for the construction of the building will be asked at once and work on it will be pushed.

The drawings for this building show a two-story structure, simple and dignified in design. The architecture is strictly classic and of the Ionic order. A broad porch will stately columns forms the main entrance. The building will stand on the west side of Twentieth street, just north of the Administration arch, facing east.

The north wing of the building will be devoted to the emergency hospital. The hospital proper will be on the main floor, with an entrance at the center of the north side, where every convenience is afforded for removing patients brought in by ambulance. The hospital will be provided with every modern appliance for the care of the sick and will be in charge of a corps of physicians under the direction of Dr. E. W. Lee. Sleeping apartments for the nurses and attendants, a kitchen, etc., will be located on the upper floor. The hospital will be closed against communication with the rest of the building, there being no openings in the wall separating it from the other parts of the structure.

The lower floor of the main portion of the building will be devoted to offices for the various departments. On this floor will be the general offices, including the secretary and his office force, the Admissions bureau, the Concessions and Exhibits departments and the Bureau of Public Comfort. A central rotunda will give light to the interior of the building and afford a means of reaching the upper floor.

On the upper floor will be the offices of the Department of Buildings and Grounds, the Department of Transportation and the Department of Publicity and Promotion. A large part of this floor will be devoted to quarters for the accommodation of representatives of newspapers and after publications. Two large, well lighted rooms, with a wide archway between, are set aside for the exclusive use of the "literary fellers." One room, 77x25 feet, is in the center of the west front of the building, and the other, 39x58 feet, is in the southwest corner. Both have an abundance of light and ventilation and both open directly from the hallway. These rooms will be fitted up with partitions extending half-way to the ceiling, and the stalls thus formed will be supplied with desks and other conveniences where the busy correspondents may prepare their copy undisturbed. Every facility will be afforded for the accommodation of the representatives of the press and the location of the building is especially well adapted for their purposes. It is almost exactly in the center of the grounds, and is convenient of access from all parts of the exposition.

CONTRACTS FOR MORE BUILDINGS.

Executive Committee Awards the Work on Fire and Police Stations.

At the meeting of the executive committee yesterday bids for the construction of the Fire and Police building to be erected on Twentieth street north of the Administration arch were laid before the committee by Manager Kirkendall as follows: Carpentry bids: Westlake Construction company, $4,111; George Moore & Son, $5,965; John Rasmussen, $4,540; R. C. Strehlow, $4,550; Thomas Herd, $4,350; William Goldie & Sons' company, $4,640. Staff and plaster bids: F. A. Seifert, $1,073; Smith & Eastman, $1,496. Contracts were ordered drawn with the Westlake Construction company and F. A. Seifert for the carpentry and staff, respectively.

Manager Kirkendall was authorized to enter into a contract with Walter Metler for the statuary for the Manufactures building, the price being $2,600.

Manager Reed of the Concessions department was authorized to enter into a contract with Mme. Alida Verhaeghe and Victor Van Bever for a concession on the Midway in the way of a lunch house. A Flemish building of handsome design will be erected and in this will be dispensed delicious lunches of a kind out of the ordinary in this section.

A contract was also authorized with E. H. Funk & Co. for selling hot waffles, doughnuts, coffee, cold tea, milk, etc.

PAYING FOR SPACE PROMPTLY.

Exhibitors Making Final Settlement with the Exposition.

The unrest in the business world incident to the war rumours has not had any appreciable effect upon the Department of Exhibits of the exposition. April 2 the department sent to all prospective exhibitors, whose applications for space had been accepted, a notice to the effect that the last 25 per cent of space money was due and payable at once, under the rules of the department. Returns from this notice began coming in almost immediately, and in the twenty-four hours ending at 5 p. m., of the 4th inst., there was received at exposition headquarters the sum of $2,082.25 on account of this space charge. Since that time the money has been coming in at a correspondingly rapid rate, and there has been no indication on the part of any exhibitor to avoid compliance with his agreement.

The Exhibits department is beginning to forge ahead in the matter of bustle and activity. The approach of the time for the gates to open is making the work of the department more burdensome, and it has been found necessary to increasethe​ office force in order to dispose of the work incident to the closing up of the preliminary details.

On the 15th of this month the marking of the floors of the main buildings will be commenced ,and it is expected that exhibits will commence arriving about that time. The great majority of exhibits will not arrive until about May 1, but many exhibitors prefer to takea​ longer time for the arrangement of their display.

Life Saving Station Work.

The station being erected in the main court by the Life Saving service of the government is beginning to assume form. The building stands just south of the circular colonnade surrounding the Mirror and is opposite the center of the broad pool. It will be a two-story structure with quarters in the second story for the crew of the station. The posts for the side wall are in position and the roof is being put on. The building is a small one, and but little time will be required for its construction. A mast will be erected about the center of the Mirror to represent the mast of a wrecked vessel, and this will be used to illustrate the practical operation of the life saving service. A track will be constructed from the door of the station through the colonnade to the edge of the Mirror, and the life boat will be launched from this point. Exhibitions will be given each afternoon, and these will form one of the most interesting features of the government exhibit.

On a Mission to California.

Special Commissioner R. W. Richardson started for California yesterday afternoon to endeavor to arouse a little enthusiasm among the people in the northern part of that state. The southern counties of California are working industriously to make a fine exhibit of their resources, including minerals as well as fruits, nuts, etc., but the northern part of the state has done nothing. Mr. Richardson will attempt to change this condition and will seek to induce the rich mineral and lumber districts to make a showing commensurate with their importance.

Funds for Oregon's Exhibit.

A committee of the Oregon Exposition commission is traveling among the towns in the eastern part of the state stirring up the people in the interest of the exposition and raising funds for a state exhibit. The committee is meeting with most encouraging success. Reports indicate that little difficulty is being encountered in raising money and exhibits are being offered the committee in large numbers. Several very extensive and valuable private collections of minerals have already been turned over to the commission and everywhere hearty co-operation is in evidence.

More Concessions Let.

The concession for the official program of the exposition has been let to Samuel J. Howe of this city, the executive committee having authorized Manager Reed to enter into a contract for this purpose. The program will be issued weekly and will contain the full list of prospective events in connection with the exposition.

Manager Reed was also authorized to make a contract with Comte de St. Germaine for a temple of palmistry on the bluff tract.

Topographical Map.

Mr. Nat Tyler, jr., an officer of the United States Geological survey, is in the city for the purpose of making a large topographical map showing Omaha, South Omaha and Council Bluffs, which will form a part of the exhibit of the survey in the Government building. This map, when completed, will show every difference in elevation of over twenty feet, each house in the cities named, all the streets, the drainage and all data of a topographical nature.

Urges on Colorado Educators.

Grace Espy Patton, Colorado's superintendent of public instruction, has sent a circular letter to each of the county superintendents asking them if they are willing to co-operate in a plan to secure a state educational exhibit at the exposition. The advantages to [?]ue from such a display are set forth [?] and the superintendents are asked to [?]heir assistance in raising funds and [?]ng the material for such an exhibit.

Kansas Makes an Appeal.

TOPEKA, Kan., April 5.—(Special Telegram.)—The Omaha Exposition commission issued an address to the people of the state tonight appealing to them for contributions for the purpose of making a creditable exhibit at Omaha. They recite the fact that the Missouri Pacific, 'Frisco, Santa Fe and Rock Island reads have contributed $15,000, and they expect boards of trade, boards of county commissioners, city councils and the people generally to contribute a similar sum, intimating that the legislature at its next session will reimburse them.

Kansans Did Not Come.

Governor Leedy of Kansas and one or more members of the Kansas Exposition commission were expected in Omaha to make arrangements for the space to be occupied by the Kansas exhibit and also to visit the grounds, but nothing has been heard of them. It is thought they will be here within the next few days.

Notes of the Exposition.

All natives of Indiana residing in Omaha have been invited to meet in Major Clarkson's office at exposition headquarters at noon Thursday of this week, to form an Indiana club along similar lines to those governing the other state clubs which have been formed recently.

A Swedish day at the exposition during the month of June is talked of. The principal attraction for that day is to be a grand concert in the Auditorium, for which purpose a large chorus is contemplated. A meeting of all unorganized Swedish-American singers in Omaha is called for next Thursday evening, April 7, at 8 o'clock, in the Board of Education room, City hall. All singers not belonging to any other choir in Omaha are cordially invited to attend.

CASH FUND FOR PROMOTION

INVESTMENT FOR EXPOSITION SURPLUS

Proposes that Money Left at the End of the Fair Be Used to Assist in Establishing New Enterprises.

A scheme to promote the introduction of manufacturing establishments in this city after the exposition and in that way to continue the prosperity which has been started by the big show has been presented to the executive committee of the Commercial club for approval. After some consideration it has been referred to a special committee for further investigation. This committee consists of Martin, McHugh, White, Baum and Utt.

The plan, as outlined in a report presented by Secretary Utt, provides for the employment in this direction of any moneys which may be in the hands of the exposition directors at the close of the exposition. The money will form a fund to be handled by some board of governors similar to the exposition directory, to be elected by the stockholders. If advisable another company may be formed, the exposition subscribers holding stock in it pro rata, according to the amount of their subscriptions to the exposition. All of this stock shall be nonassessable. A subscriber will not be compelled to keep his money in the new company. He will be allowed to draw out his share of the profits if he desires.

The plan has not been worked out in detail, but the outline has been given. It is proposed that the board of governors in charge of the money shall investigate manufacturing enterprises, with a view of inducing them to come to this city. None of the money will be given as a bonus. It will be used in buying stock in such establishments, either as a matter of assistance or for the enlargement of the plant. No money will be invested in any enterprise which has not been thoroughly investigated.

The promoters of the plan look upon it as a good scheme of investment and as certain to bring new manufacturing concerns to Omaha. The need of something of the kind is now being felt. For example there is at present a good business proposition regarding a flouring mill offered. The mill is of considerable capacity, but additional capital of $60,000 is required to put it on the desired basis. About half of this amount has been subscribed by Omaha moneyed men, but the remainder is still lacking. If there was some such company as the proposed plan provides for the money would be available and the establishment could be secured.

MISSOURI PACIFIC COMES IN

GIVES EXPOSITION FIFTEEN THOUSAND

George Gould Subscribes that Amount in the Name of the Road of Which He is President.

At the meeting of the executive committee of the exposition at noon today the announcement was made that George Gould, the president of the Missouri Pacific Railroad company, after visiting the exposition grounds and holding a conference with a committee representing the exposition management, has subscribed $15,000 to the exposition on behalf of the Missouri Pacific road. The committee that waited on Mr. Gould consisted of Managers Lindsay and Rosewater and Treasurer Kountze.

This contribution by the Missouri Pacific was regarded as very liberal, and the executive committee and all connected with the exposition management were greatly gratified at the announcement.

This closes the list of railroads entering Omaha with the exception of the Kansas City, Pittsburg & Gulf road. The Burlington subscribed $30,000, the Northwestern system, $30,000; the Rock Island, $20,000; the Milwaukee road, $10,000; the Union Pacific $25,000 and the Missouri Pacific $15,000, making a total contribution by the railroads of $130,000.

MISSOURI WORKS ON CASH PLAN.

Exposition Commissioners Take No Chances on Subscriptions.

A meeting of the Missouri Exposition commission will be held in St. Louis Friday, April 8, to take final action to determine the exact extent of the display to be made by the state. At that meeting the treasurer will report the exact amount of money in his hands and this money will be the guide in determining the extent of the exhibit. The commission has issued a notice that it will take no promises but must have the cash in hand. The money will be apportioned among the several departments of the commission, and no department will be allowed to exceed the amount at its command. In the meantime every commissioner is endeavoring to raise as much money in his district as possible in order to swell the fund at the command of the commission. The Missouri commission now numbers 120 members and every section of the state is well represented.

The colored members of the commission have been especially active in working among all the people of their race in the state. Each school teacher and each preacher in the state has been asked to contribute 25 cents to the cause and each pupil and each church member is asked to give 5 cents. With the fund thus created an exhibit is to be made of everything the colored people have made that is worth showing.

Bids on Arkansas Building.

Bids were received until noon today for the construction of the Arkansas building on the exposition grounds by Secretary W. D. Mathews of Little Rock. The lumber for the building has been donated by several lumber firms of Arkansas.

The sale of buttons containing a picture of the proposed Arkansas building is being pushed and they are being disposed of in large numbers.

One room in this building will be fitted up by the Free Masons of Arkansas as a reception room in honor of the memory of the late General Albert Pike, the founder of the branch of Scottish Rite Masons known as the Southern jurisdiction. The Arkansas building will be an exact reproduction of the former residence of General Pike in Little Rock, which is said to be one of the finest examples of a southern mansion now extant.

Will Build a Sod House.

A formal application has been received at exposition headquarters for space on which to erect a sod house. The Nebraska Exposition commission is the sponsor for this undertaking, having voted $500 to Mrs. L. Bowser of Norfolk, who will look after the erection of this typical illustration of early life in Nebraska and will take up her abode in the structure for the term of the exposition. Mrs. Bowser speaks with pride of the ten years of her early Nebraska life which was spent in a sod house and she says that all the details of household economics of the early days will be faithfully portrayed. The sod from which the house will be constructed will be brought from Rock county. The building will be located on the bluff tract a short distance southeast of the Nebraska building.

New Mexico's Minerals.

J. J. Leeson, the superintendent of the New Mexico exhibit, is making a tour of the state collecting materials for the exhibit. He is devoting himself principally to collecting minerals and for that purpose has   visited all of the prominent mining camps in the territory. Mr. Leeson has a most extensive private collection, which he will place on exhibition as a part of the New Mexico display, and he gives assurance that New Mexico's showing in this line will eclipse anything that may be attempted by any other section.

Preparing Educational Program.

The program committee for the Transmississippi Educational congress met yesterday and made considerable progress toward the arrangement of the programs for the various departments. Some of them are now practically decided on and it is expected that the entire program can be definitely announced some time next week. The executive committee will meet in the office of Superintendent Pearse in the city hall at 4 o'clock this afternoon.

South Dakota Assists.

PIERRE, S. D., April 6.—(Special Telegram.)—The boards of commissioners of Hughes and Stanley counties today guaranteed loans of $200 for each county for a state exhibit at the Omaha exposition.

Notes of the Exposition.

Harry O'Brien of Paris, Ky., the principal owner of the Streets of Cairo concession on the Midway, has arrived in the city and will remain here unti lafter​ the exposition.

The Illinois State Exposition commission has secured a permit to erect an addition to its building at the exposition grounds. The new building will be 38x50 feet.

A meeting of natives of the New England states has been called for Friday, to be held in Major Clarkson's office at exposition headquarters at 1 o'clock. The call is signed by A. P. Tukey, W. H. Alexander, W. J. Broatch and George P. Bemis.

EXHIBITS BY FOREIGNERS

GREAT ARRAY IN INTERNATIONAL BUILDING

Assurances from Governments and Individuals of More Than the Contemplated Structure Can Comfortable Contain.

Arrangements for the foreign exhibits which are to occupy the International building have been completed by the Department of Exhibits and it is now assured that there will be a representative collection, which promises to exceed the capacity of the large building now in process of construction for this purpose. Extensive exhibits are assured from Mexico, Russia, Italy, Denmark, Switzerland, France, Austria, China, Canada and Great Britain, with still more to hear from.

A letter was received by the Department of Exhibits from the minister of agriculture of the Canadian government, expressing the satisfaction of the government with the arrangements which have been made for the Canadian exhibit. The action of the Department of Publicity and Promotion in sending the resident British vice consul, M. A. Hall, to Ottawa, resulted in arousing the interest of the Canadian officials and an extensive exhibit of the resources of that country is assured. The Canadian exhibit will occupy 5,000 square feet of space in the International building.

The French section will occupy 4,000 square feet of floor space and will include about seventy-five manufacturing firms of Paris and other sections of France. Frederick Mayer of Paris is the French commissioner and he writes to the Exhibit department that the shipment of their exhibits by the various firms will be commenced at once.

The Mexican exhibit will occupy 3,000 feet of space and all arrangements for an extensive exhibit by the Mexican government were concluded some time ago. The government will have charge of this exhibit and a good showing is assured.

The Italian section will occupy 1,000 feet and will be in charge of De Caro Frascollo, the Italian commissioner. At least forty-two different exhibitors will occupy space in this section and a fine collection of high grade manufactured goods and articles of virtu will be exhibited.

The Swiss exhibit will occupy about 600 square feet and displays will be made by about twenty-two firms of manufactures. Joseph Benno is the Swiss commissioner.

One thousand feet has been set aside for the Russian section and Denmark, Austria and Great Britain will occupy space in the building. A fine showing is assured in each of these sections and the International building will compare favorably with any other display on the grounds.

The Chinese government will be officially represented by representatives and an exhibit, but the latter will be made in a separate building to be erected on the bluff tract.

Superintendent Hardt of the Exhibits department declares that the International building is too small to accommodate the great demand which is being made for space for foreign exhibits and must be enlarged.

Frederick Mayer, the French commissioner, has notified the Department of Exhibits that he has secured and has ready for shipment forty paintings for the art exhibit, and also [?] the Winged Victory ready for shipment. Mr. Mayer encloses the application of H. Fromont of Troyes, France, for space in the Manufactures building for an operating exhibit showing engraving on glass.

GOVERNMENT EXHIBIT UNDER WAY.

Captain Ward on the Ground to Look After the Receipt of Goods.

Captain H. C. Ward, the army officer who is in charge of the exhibit to be made in the Government building by the War department, and Lieutenant-Commander L. C. Logan, the naval officer who has charge of the exhibit of the Navy department, are in the city.

Captain Ward expects to remain in Omaha until after the exposition unless called away by future developments in the Spanish situation. He will be in direct charge of the shipments of all material for exhibits shipped here by the various governmental departments. Lieutenant Commander Logan is here temporarily at this time, having came to arrange a few preliminary matters in connection with the Navy deaprtment​ exhibit.

Captain Ward and Lieutenant Commander Logan both say that the present activity in army and navy circles promises to interfere with the display of both departments. It has been the intention all along to include in the display of each department modern arms of all kinds, including a 6-inch gun used by battleships and an 8-inch coast defense gun with disappearing carriage, as well as a large number of weapons of offense and defense of smaller calibre. In the event of open hostilities or a continuation of the present threatening aspect of affairs, these materials will not be shipped to Omaha, and their absence will materially affect the completeness of the exhibits of these departments. If a peaceable solution of the present crisis is reached in the near future, these weapons will be shipped immediately.

The shipment of portions of the government exhibits has been commenced. A car loaded with material for the exhibit of the Agricultural department is now enroute from Washington, and should reach Omaha about April 12, and another car of exhibits for the same department has been shipped from Nashville, where the material has been stored. This car should arrive about the same time as the first one, and Captain Ward says he expects the exhibits to continue coming at the rate of two or three cars per week from that time until about May 10.

COLORADO'S PART IN THE SHOW.

Commissioner of Horticulture Now Making Final Arrangements.

Mrs M. A. Shute, state commissioner of horticulture for Colorado, has arrived in Omaha to confer with the exposition management regarding the exhibit to be made by Colorado. She has direct charge of all matters in connection with the display to be made by the horticulturists of Colorado and has been vested with authority by the other interests of the state to make full arrangements for the entire display to be made by that state.

Mrs. Shute declined to discuss the probable extent of Colorado's display until after she had concluded her negotiations with the exposition management and had made definite arrangements. She says, however, it is practically settled that Colorado will make no mineral display, as the $8,000 demanded by Mining Commissioner Lee as an expense fund for making the exhibit had not been forthcoming.

It was learned from Special Commissioner Llewellyn, who visited Denver very recently, that the magnificent mineral collection belonging to the state is stored in the capitol building at Denver ready for shipment at any time, but Mining Commissioner Lee says that $8,000 will be required to add to the collection certain material which is lacking and to meet the cost of shipment to Omaha and the cost of installation and care. Letters to people in various parts of the state failed to bring this money and it is now announced that no mineral exhibit will be made by that state.

Major Clarkson and His Comrades.

Major Clarkson, assistant to the president of the exposition, has gone to Chicago to attend the reunion of the four Chicago batteries of light artillery with which he served during the late unpleasantness. The surviving members of the four batteries will gather around the board at the Grand Pacific hotel tonight in celebration of the battle of Shiloh, April 6 and 7, 1862, in which all of the four batteries took part.

COLORADO'S FRUIT DISPLAY

MRS. SHUTE LAYS SOME GREAT PLANS

Centennial State to Lead All Others at the Exposition in Variety and Magnificence of Its Exhibit.

Mrs. M. A. Shute, Colorado's commissioner of horticulture, has gone east, after visiting the exposition grounds and making arrangements for a horticultural exhibit, which, she says, will eclipse in the extent and variety of the display anything that may be undertaken by any other state.

Mrs. Shute spent all of Thursday afternoon at the exposition grounds and only returned to her hotel when there was nothing more to examine. To Prof. Taylor, superintendent of the Bureau of Horticulture, who accompanied her, Mrs. Shute said, "I can only paraphrase the remark of Senator Gallinger regarding Cuba, 'You may draw any picture of the magnificence and grandeur of your exposition, and I will sign it.'"

To a representative of The Bee Mrs. Shute said, "I was prepared to see a few pretty buildings, and expected them to be white, but I cannot express the amazement and astonishment which filled me when I saw the magnificence and the extent of the preparations which are being made. I went all over the grounds and made a complete examination of every building. I have in my mind a bird's-eye view of the whole exposition and I cannot express my pleasure at the promise of a magnificent exhibition, and my regret that my state may not be fully represented in every department of her resources.

"'When I left Denver Colonel Bishop, one of the Colorado commission, said the action of the commission would be guided very largely by my advice after I returned. I can assure you that I shall use all my powers to bring this matter before them in the proper way and urge them to not let this opportunity pass for laying before the people of this great country the advantages we have to offer to settlers. I regard this exposition as a business proposition which offers to the people of Colorado the best opportunity they have ever had to advertise the resources of that state. We have plenty of room for more horticulturists in our state and I believe some of the other industries are not overcrowded. I am convinced that a display at this exposition would result in great good to Colorado and I intend doing all in my power to make the entire Colorado commission and the people of the state see it that way.

COLORADO'S FRUIT.

"I have reserved 1,898 square feet of space in the Horticulture building," said Mrs. Shute with a quiet smile as she mentioned the number of feet; "of this amount the Department of Exhibits has very kindly donated 800 feet. In this space we will have as fine an exhibit as it is possible to make. I have completed all arrangements for having the very best specimens of horticultural products collected at our various county fairs and these will be shipped to Omaha. Our strongest showing will not be made until about September, but we will occupy our space with a fine exhibit of dried and preserved fruits and fresh fruits in their season.

"One of the most attractive features of Colorado's horticultural display will be the 'fruit days,' which will be held during the entire season. We will commence during the very early days of the exposition by having 'strawberry days' on June 9. On that day the people of Glenwood Springs, a strawberry district in Garfield county, on the western slope, will bring hundreds of crates of the most delicious strawberries the people of this section ever tasted, and these will be given away to all comers. The next great day will be the Feast of Watermelons on September 3. Colorado beats the world at raising watermelons and we propose to bring these juicy morsels to Omaha in carloads just to make the people who visit the exposition sorry that they don't live in Colorado. The people of Grand Junction will come out strong September 9, with their peaches. There is no place on the footstool which grows such large, juicy, delicious morsels as the Grand Junction district and we will convince everybody within reach of our peach stand that this is a fact. September 15 and 16 will be our fruit day, and then is the time when the people will have an opportunity of eating their fill of the finest pears and apples grown anywhere in the world. There will be other varieties of fruit, but the apples and pears will be most in evidence. It is no uncommon thing for the fruit trees in some portions of our state to produce pears which weigh twenty-seven ounces, and apples measuring seventeen inches in circumference. I have in my office in Denver photographs of fruit of these dimensions, and can testify that they are not unusual in size.

"We are not going to expend all out energies in these fruit days, however," continued Mrs. Shute, "but we will keep our display in the Horticultural building fully up to   the highest standard. This display will be in charge of men from the western slope and the Arkansas valley who are experts in such matters.

"Out state will make a good showing in the educational department and the state department is making extensive preparations in this direction. The agriculture display will also be a creditable one, and I believe we will have a good mining exhibit. I intend to use my best efforts to bring about a display of our minerals and believe this can be accomplished."

EDUCATING PEOPLE IN HOME ART.

Object of an Exhibit to Be Made by the Central Association.

George R. Dean, a Chicago architect who represents the industrial art department of the Central Art association, is in the city to carry out still further the work started by Mrs. T. Vernette Morse, the secretary of the association, who was in Omaha about a week ago. Mr. Dean comes for the purpose of obtaining definite data on which to base a recommendation as to just the form the display of the association shall take. These matters have been referred to the department of which Mr. Dean is the head, and he is in consultation with the exposition authorities and architects.

Mr. Dean stated that it has been definitely decided by the Central Art association to make an exhibit which shall illustrate the artistic furnishing and decorating of a complete American house, according to the most approved artistic principles as an object lesson in the practical application of art education to the home life. American furnishings will be used as far as possible and arrangements have been partially completed for carrying out this plan. The only point that is yet undecided is whether the exhibit shall be made in the gallery of the Liberal Arts building, as has been contemplated, or in a separate building to be erected on the bluff tract. Mr. Dean says a two-story structure is desirable although not absolutely necessary, and this could not be constructed in the gallery of the Liberal Arts building. He says it is not the desire of the Central Art association to profit by the undertaking in a financial sense, but simply to forward its mission of education by educating the taste of the people. A number of decorators have offered their services in carrying out the plan, asking that their actual expenses be paid, and several dealers in furnished goods of various kinds have applied for space in the building.

Swedish Chorus Gets to Work.

A branch of the Swedish Transmississippi Jubilee chorus, some fifty in number, met for the first rehearsal on the fifth floor of the city hall last evening. It being the first meeting, the attendance was considered good. Prof. Adolf Edgren, the director, in a short time had all the singers hard at work. The enthusiasm shown is an indication of the ultimate success of the chorus. Prof. Edgren expects to double the number of singers at the rehearsal next week Thursday. All Swedish-American singers are cardially​ invited.

KANSANS LOOK OVER THE GROUND.

Exposition Commissioners Preparing the Way for an Exhibit.

Five of the six members of the Kansas Exposition commission arrived in Omaha yesterday and spent the day in visiting the exposition grounds and making arrangements for space for the Kansas building and for the magnificent showing of the resources of the state which is to be made in the exposition buildings. Those constituting the party were: John E. Frost of Topeka, vice president and treasurer of the commission; Mayor A. C. Fellows of Topeka, exposition vice president for Kansas; A. H. Greef of Pittsburg, secretary; A. C. Lamb of Wellington, and A. W. Smith of McPherson.

The entire morning was spent in visiting the exposition grounds. Dudley Smith acted as escort for the party and every portion of the exposition ground was visited and thoroughly inspected. Commissioners Greef and Lamb had been over the same ground about a week before, and they pointed out to their colleagues the site for the Kansas building, directly east of the Horticulture building. The site is a most desirable one, being but a short distance from the edge of the bluff overlooking the river. The commissioners were all greatly pleased with it, and they expressed still further satisfaction when they were shown the space in the exhibit buildings which had been reserved for Kansas.

The visitors returned to the Millard hotel for luncheon, after which they proceeded to exposition headquarters, where they closed arrangements for the space reserved by Commissioners Greef and Lamb on their former visit. The total amount of space taken by the commission, aside from the building space on the bluff tract, is 6,000 feet.

The commissioners, individually and collectively, said that their state will have an excellent exhibit. The $15,000 subscribed by four of the railroads has been paid in, and a call has been issued to the people of Kansas by Governor Leedy, asking them to contribute liberally to a fund for a state exhibit, with the understanding that the legislature will reimburse all subscribers at its next session. This plan was followed in the case of the World's fair, and the commissioners say no difficulty is anticipated in carrying out the same plan in this instance.

Mr. Frost, who is land commissioner of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe railroad, said the prospects for an extensive exhibit are most excellent. He expressed great surprise at the grand scale on which operations are being carried on at the grounds and confessed that what he had seen had surpassed all his expectations.

Mr. Lamb, who visited the grounds about a week ago on a similar errand, said that he had been surprised at the progress which had been made in the meantime. He said the commissioners had brought with them a plan for their state building which had been adopted by them. This plan will be submitted to the architects-in-chief for approval, and contracts for the erection of the building will be let at once. Mr. Lamb says the people all over the state are greatly interested in the idea of making a fine exhibit of the resources of the state, and he anticipates no difficulty in raising all the money that will be needed.

KNOX COLLEGE DAY NEXT FALL.

President Finley Consults with Local Graduates on the Plan.

President John H. Finley of Knox college, Galesburg, Ill., is spending the day in Omaha, consulting with graduates of his institution for the purpose of stimulating interest in the college among the people of this vicinity. President Finley reports that Know is in a flourishing condition, with nearly 600 students in attendance. There are twenty-five or thirty former Knox college men in Omaha and its immediate surroundings, including John L. Kennedy, Frank H. Gaines, C. C. George, Ed George, Charles Martin and Victor Bender of Council Bluffs. The suggestion has been made that Colonel Clark E. Carr, president of the State Exposition commission, and also a number of the Board of Trustees of Knox college, that a day be set for a gathering of Knox college men at the exposition some time in September. The idea, if worked out, would include the reunion of the graduates throughout the northwest, an address by some prominent orator, an excursion from Galesburg of almost the entire body of students in attendance there. President Finley is considering the practicability of the plan and has talked it over with the local Knox men, all of whom are favorable to it. President Finley expects to spend some time at the exposition himself, and at the same time bring Knox college into closer relations with the people of this section.

Oregon Raising Funds.

The committee of the Oregon Exposition commission, which is traveling about over the state asking the several districts to assist the commission with funds to make an exhibit, is meeting with flattering success. At Pendleton a few days ago the committee appeared before a meeting of the executive committee of the Commercial club and asked that organization to assist in raising $3,000 for the purpose of making a state exhibit. The committee took the matter up at once and a public meeting was called at which the matter was started and it is announced that the money will be raised without difficulty.

South Dakota Counties Subscribe.

Reports from South Dakota are to the effect that over twenty counties have joined in the movement to assist the State Exposition commission by raising funds for a state exhibit. The plan is to have each county lend the state commission $200 for each member that county has in the legislature, the understanding being that the legislature is to reimburse the counties at its next session. The counties are taking up this scheme and it seems assured that a sufficient fund will be available for the work of the commission.

Proof of Composite Photograph.

The first proofs of the composite photograph of the most handsome young women of the transmississippi states have been received by the Department of Publicity and Promotion. The photograph is from the photographs of the two prettiest young women in each of the states west of the Mississippi river by George Rockwood of New York. It represents as fair and attractive a young personage as one could wish to see and will make a delightfully beautiful adornment for the exposition medals.

Decorating Nebraska Building.

A contract has been made with A. H. Graef for the tinting and decorating of the interior of the Nebraska building, under the direction of Miss Mellona Butterfield, the superintendent of the Art department of the Nebraska commission. The rotunda and rooms of the building will be handsomely ornamented.

Notes of the Exposition.

Yesterday afternoon the executive committee of the Educational congress held a meeting at Superintendent Pearse's office, at which some routine matters in connection with the affair were gone through with.

COMPLETE RATES TO EXPOSITION.

Western Passenger Association Adopts Its Committee's Reports.

CHICAGO, April 7.—Rates and arrangements on account of the Omaha exposition were completed today by the Western Passenger association lines. The rates are more liberal than those made for the Chicago exposition.

Summer tourist tickets will be sold at 80 per cent of double locals to Omaha from all sections of the country, with final return limit to November 15.

From all association points east of Colorado a rate of one fare and a third for the round trip will be made from June 1 until October 30, with a thirty-day return limit, provided, however, that in no case the rate from the following points to Omaha shall be less than $20 from Chicago, $17 from Peoria, $17 from St. Louis, $25 from Colorado common points and $15.75 from St. Paul and Minneapolis.

For the opening ceremonies a rate of 1 cent a mile will be made from all points within 150 miles of Omaha. From points beyond the 150-mile limit the rate will be one fare for the round trip. All tickets of every character through Omaha, in either direction, will be made good for stopover at Omaha not to exceed five days. The minimum rate for any round trip ticket is to be 50 cents.

OHIO WILL COME TO OMAHA

LEGISLATURE PROVIDES FOR COMMISSION

Joint Resolution Instructing the Governor to Name the Men and Prescribing Their Powers is Adopted.

Special Commissioner R. W. Richardson reports to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that the Ohio legislature has passed a joint resolution directing the governor to appoint a commission of four persons to "encourage and promote commercial, industrial, educational and artistic exhibits by the citizens of Ohio," and to solicit contributions for the preparation of such exhibits. The commission is required to serve without pay, and the sum of $3,000 is fixed as the limit of expenditures to be incurred by the commission.

Governor Bushnell has announced his intention to appoint a commission within a very few days.

Commissioner Richardson reports that the interest in Ohio concerning the exposition has been steadily growing and the manufacturers and other lines have manifested a desire to take an active part in the movement to have the state officially represented.

Manager Rosewater of the Department of Publicity and Promotion is greatly pleased at the success of the effort to add Ohio to the list of states which will be officially represented at the exposition, and said that the creation of this commission will give an opportunity for the collection of funds from the large cities in Ohio which have already manifested a desire to take action of this kind, provided joint action could be secured. With the commission as the head of such a movement it is practically assured that the state will be represented in a manner which will be creditable alike to itself and to the exposition.

EXPOSITION AND THE TELEPHONE.

President Yost Tells of the Arrangements for an Exhibit.

Casper E. Yost, president of the Nebraska and Iowa Telephone companies, has just returned from an extended trip to Chicago, New York and Boston. While in the east, he made arrangements for an exhibit of telephone apparatus for the Electricity building at the Transmississippi Exposition here this summer.

In speaking of his trip to The Bee he said: "One finds a great deal of interest in the exposition throughout the east. It is really surprising the number of inquiries one hears regarding the exposition. In all the big cities and on the railway trains I heard many inquiries and much discussion concerning it, and there seems to be a general desire to attend and participate in the exposition.

"The Bell Telephone company has decided that it will exhibit at the Transmississippi Exposition a complete set of instruments showing the first telephone inventions that were used, the gradual improvements made, and the later growth and development of telephone instruments. This, I think, will prove to be one of the most interesting exhibits at the exposition. The progress made in telephone work from the earliest inventions will be represented by lines and instruments in charge of a competent attendant.

"The long distance telephone people have agreed to place their lines between Omaha and Washington at the disposal of the exposition directory on the day of the opening of the exposition. Arrangements will be made for through service from the exposition grounds to the White House at Washington, and communication may be had between the officers of the exposition and President McKinley.

"The question of putting in a telephone plant at the exposition grounds to render service among the various buildings and from the grounds through our local exchange to outside points will be taken up at once, and in all probability some decision will be reached at an early date. There is nothing definitely decided about the matter as yet. The exposition directory and our company will take up the matter at once.

"In the exhibit to be made at the exposition, there will be one of the latest and most improved switchboards every built. At the close of this exposition this switch board will be sent to Sioux City, Ia., and placed in the local exchange there. A new switch board has also been ordered for the South Omaha exchange, and will probably be put in place there about July 1."

CONSIDERING WAYS AND MEANS.

Transmississippi Association Meets and Talks Over Finances.

The meting​ of the Council Bluffs Transmisissippi​ association at the Grand hotel last evening was devoted chiefly to the discussion of the financial problems that have always been inseparable from the deliberations of the association. President Graham reported that he had received some unsolicited additions to the building fund and that many inquiries had been made by business men and others, which showed a growing interest in the objects of the association. Dr. Barstow thought the present subscription was worth about $3,000, or could be made to represent that amount of available cash. Secretary Judson reported that he has experienced little difficulty in making the collections upon the subscription lists given him for collection.

Word was sent by the women who have undertaken to assist the association in its work of raising funds that they had practically completed arrangements for giving four entertainments. The first will be given two weeks from last night. It will be in the nature of a stereopticon entertainment, showing recent pictures of things in Cuba, accompanied by a lecture. The name of the lecturer was not given, but it is understood that Mr. Fitch will be the person. A meeting will be held in the ordinary of the Grand hotel on Saturday afternoon at 4 o'clock to perfect the arrangements for this entertainment. The next entertainment will occur four weeks hence and will be given by the Rosedale club, a very enthusiastic association of young people who have demonstrated their ability to give a high class show. The Mandolin Glee club will be the feature of the next show, which will be given in about seven weeks, and the final entertainment of the series will be a "Pottawattamie pow-wow," in which the society young people of the city will take part. It is believed that this series of entertainments will result in turning into the treasury of the association not less than $1,000.

The button question was reverted and the secretary stated that several hundred buttons were in the hands of the juvenile selling committees under the charge of the women, but no reports had been made. Dr. Barstow thought it would be a good plan to have another committee appointed to assist in this work and at his suggestion George F. Wright was appointed as chairman of such committee with instructions to appoint from the members his co-workers.

General Test reported that he had been in conference with insurance companies relative to getting their assistance in helping along the wigwam business and had received favorable replies from a number of them.

Applications were presented from the manufacturers of two acetylene gas making devices, offering to light the wigwam free for the privilege of showing their apparatus. The association will meet again on Monday evening.

Educational Congress Outline.

Superintendent Pearse has received communications from most of the educators who will have charge of conferences at the Transmississippi Educational Congress, in which they outline the work that they will carry out.

Statuary for Agricultural Building.

The statuary for the Agriculture building is being hauled to the grounds and numerous colossal figures of women and sturdy boys are huddled together in the corners of the pavilions along the main front of the big building. They will be placed in position as fast as possible on top of the pavilions in order to avoid injury and will form a most attractive finish to the handsome building.

PREPARING THE TANKS FOR FISH.

Government Getting Its Aquarium Into Condition for Visitors.

The machinery for the live fish exhibit to be made by the fish commission in the Government building has arrived and is being installed in a room constructed underneath the floor at the northwest corner of the Government building. This machinery consists mainly of an ice making plant, which is used for cooling the water in which the live fish are displayed. The plant is capable of turning out four tons of ice in each twenty-four hours. In addition to the ice plant there is an electric pump capable of raising 1,200 gallons of water per hour. This pump is used in connection with the salt water supplied to the tanks for the ocean fish.

A large tank having a capacity of 10,000 gallons is being erected beneath the floor of the building near the machinery room. The salt water will be stored in this tank and the electric pump will raise it to a 1,000-gallon tank placed above the fish exhibit, from whence it will pass through pipes to the glass tanks containing the fish. About 100,000 gallons of salt water is used per day, the water being made to pass through the circuit of tanks again and again, passing through a filter after leaving the fish tanks, in order to remove all foreign matter, and being charged with air before reaching the fish tanks again.

The exhibit of salt water fish will contain many different varieties. About the time the fish are wanted a vessel of the fish commission will make a special trip to some point along the Atlantic or gulf coast to be hereafter determined and a big seine will be let down into the depths. When it is hauled in its contents will form the major portion of the exhibit of salt water fish at the exposition. No one can foresee what monstrosities this haul may include. There may be a large proportion of freaks of nature, or there may be an utter absence of unusual forms. At any rate, there will be a variety of salt water fish which will form a source of amusement and a means of information to exposition visitors.

Ten tanks are set apart for the salt water fish, and in addition to these there will be shown the apparatus and the methods used by the department to propagate cod and one or two other varieties of salt water fish, with the plant in full operation.

No machinery will be required for the tanks of fresh water in which will be shown the various varieties of fish which inhabit the fresh water streams and lakes of this country. There are fifteen of these tanks, and the water will be supplied to them from the city mains, after passing through cooling coils and filters. In addition to the fifteen tanks there will be two large, oval pools, each about thirty inches deep and about ten feet in the long diameter.

A number of stuffed figures of sea lions, seals and other specimens were received at the Government building in the same car with the machinery, and these will be placed in position within a few days.

Electrical Arrangements.

Prof. R. B. Owens, director of the Bureau of Electricity, announces that the American Institute of Electrical Engineers has changed the date of its meeting in Omaha from July 4 to 6 and will meet in this city during the four days commencing June 26 and ending June 30.

Prof. Owens says he has received notice from General Greely, chief of the Signal corps of the army, that the electrical apparatus used by the signal corps is packed for shipment to Omaha, where it will be displayed in the electrical section of the Machinery and Electricity building.

The Chicago Edison company has notified Prof. Owens that it will exhibit apparatus and data illustrating the operation of a Central Edison station.

Prof. Edison goes to Chicago to arrange for further details in connection with the electrical exhibits.

Bridging the Lagoon.

The workmen who are preparing for the concrete piers for the iron bridges which are to connect the island in the lagoon with either bank have encountered a disagreeable condition. Although the lagoon has been drained of all its water, the excavation made for the piers fills constantly with water, and it seems impossible to make a footing for the piers. The temporary wooden bridge on the north side of the island is directly in line with the permanent bridge and it is being removed, thus cutting off all communication between the sides of the lagoon except by passing around either end of the long basin.

Packing Companies Help.

The Cudahy Packing company has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that it has made preparations to distribute through the mails, to its customers, 10,000 or 12,000 of the large lithographs of the exposition issued by the department, having arranged to have these pictures displayed in prominent places in the offices and stores of its customers in various parts of the country. This action is in line with the course pursued by all of the packing houses, they having co-operated with the department very extensively in distributing printed matter all over the country.

Protest Against Bands.

Musicians' union No. 70 of the American Federation of Musicians, being the Omaha branch of musicians, has filed a formal protest with the exposition management against the employment, by the exposition, of certain bands which are designated as "non-union." The list of these organizations is as follows: The First Regiment band of the Nebraska National Guard, being the local band which has been known as the Musical Union Band, the Seventh Ward Band, Liberati's band of New York and the United States Marine band.

Pennsylvania Club's Meeting.

The Pennsylvania club met at exposition headquarters at noon and discussed plans for carrying out the purpose of the organization, which is to arrange for the entertainment of visiting Pennsylvania. After some discussion it was decided to appoint a committee of fivfie​ to see if the old Liberty bell now in Independence hall in Philadelphia, cannot be brought to Omaha and placed on exhibition. Chairman Clarkson appointed as this committee Prof. J. A. Gillespie, Dr. Horace Ludington, G. W. Heston, President C. F. Manderson and Secretary G. W. Shriver. The next meeting of the club will be held next Saturday noon in the directors' room at exposition headquarters.

New Mexico in Good Condition.

Governor Miguel A. Otero, chief executive of the territory of New Mexico, writes to Dudley Smith, an old personal friend, that exposition matters in New Mexico are in a first class condition and that a fine exhibit will be made. The governor says he will visit the exposition and notifies the chairman of the Bureau of Public Comfort that he will expect that department of the exposition to look after his comfort during his stay.

Apply for Space Too Late.

Several belated applications for space for exhibits have been received by the Department of Exhibits. Owing to the lateness of the applications and the fact that the buildings are already crowded to the limit, it is doubtful if the space asked for can be granted. Among the applications are the following: Northwestern Hide and Fur company of Minneapolis, Safety Fire Extinguisher company of New York and the Standard Paint company of New York, etc.

KANSAS COMES TO THE SHOW

SUNFLOWER STATE WHEELS INTO LINE

Governor Leedy Names a State Commission with Instructions to Proceed at Once with All Necessary Arrangements.

Kansas has an exposition commission and there is no longer any doubt about the resources of that state being represented in the exposition in the most creditable manner. Governor Leedy has appointed a commission of five members and the railroads have contributed $15,000 toward a fund for a state exhibit. An equal amount will be raised among the people of the state and a state building will be erected and exhibits made in the various main buildings.

The commission was appointed by Governor Leedy Tuesday, consisting of the following members: Former Governor George W. Glick of Atchison, A. W. Smith of McPherson, John E. Frost of Topeka, A. H. Greef of Pittsburg and A. C. Lamb of Wellington. Governor Leedy notified these appointees to meet in Omaha today and organize for business, making their arrangements for space on the spot and acquiring all necessary information at the outset.

In accordance with these instructions Mr. Greef came to Omaha and at once made himself known at exposition headquarters. He said the other members of the commission would arrive at once and the organization of the commission would be effected at once. He made a flying trip to the grounds in the morning and returned there in the afternoon in company with Major Clarkson. After the first trip, although not able to go through the main court on account of the mud, Mr. Greef was most enthusiastic regarding the outlook for a big exposition and was very emphatic in his declaration that his state will be represented in a manner which will be a credit to both the state and the exposition. Mr. Greef is secretary of the Commercial club of Pittsburg and intends to devote all of his time to pushing the work of the commission.

DETERMINED TO SHINE.

"We are going to have a state building," said Mr. Greef, "and we will have a good exhibit in the main buildings. Our state building will be mainly for headquarters and offices and our exhibits will be placed in the main buildings. Our commission has not had a meeting, but some of the details have been talked over in a general way by the governor and he is strongly in favor of having a state building where our people can gather. The $15,000 which has been contributed by the railroads will be augmented by a similar amount to be raised among our people. I do not believe there will be any particular difficulty in raising this amount and an effort will be made to have the legislature reimburse the contributors.

"Our exhibits will be in the Mining, Agriculture and Horticulture buildings. We have very large mineral interests in the southeastern part of the state which will be well represented and our extensive agricultural and horticultural interests will be represented in a very creditable manner. The plan which has been considered is to divide the state into districts and give each member of the commission full charge in his district. In this way we will accomplish a good deal in a short time. Our people in the southeastern part of the state have been awake to the importance of being represented at this exposition and there will be no delay in that section of the state. We realize that the exposition is gong to be one of the greatest affairs of the kind ever held in this country and of great importance to all the people of the west. We will make a big showing and our people are coming to the show in large numbers.

"I was prepared to see some extensive preparations at the grounds, as I have been receiving large amounts of advertising matter from the Publicity department of the exposition, but I must confess that I was greatly astonished when I saw the buildings themselves. I took it for granted that the pictures sent out were somewhat flattering, but I find that they do not convey an adequate impression of the reality. The main court is a thing of great beauty and the effect of the grounds is going to be most magnificent."

PLACES FOR CONVENTIONS TO MEET.

Major Clarkson Concludes All the Arrangements Necessary.

The exposition management has concluded all arrangements for furnishing meeting places for the numerous conventions and meeting of various kinds which will convene in Omaha during the coming summer and Major Clarkson says that ample accommodations will be afforded all comers.

The large gatherings, such as the meeting of the National League of Republican Clubs and the meeting of the delegates enroute to the annual meeting of the Christian Endeavor society, and the annual meeting of the Travelers' Protective association, will be held in the Creighton or Boyd theater. Boyd's has been secured for the traveling men May 31, and for the Republican League meeting June 28, 29 and 30. The Creighton has been secured for the Christian Endeavor meeting July 3. The congresses and the smaller meetings will be held in Creighton hall or some of the numerous smaller halls down town, several of which have been secured for that purpose. In the case of gatherings too large for the theaters down town, the Auditorium on the exposition grounds will be utilized. This has a seating capacity of about 4,000 and will hold many more by filling the lobby.

In this way Major Clarkson says that there will be no difficulty in caring for all of the meetings.

Notes of the Exposition.

Colonel E. Roberts, an engineer of the Treasury department, visited the Government building at the exposition grounds and went over the construction of the building with Superintendent J. J. Farnan.

The Cozad Irrigation company has made a formal application for 180,000 square feet of space in the irrigation field on the north tract, on which it proposes to construct a relief map of Dawson county, showing the rivers and waterways of the county and the plant and ditches of the irrigation company. In this space will be established a number of orchards and fields showing the practical operation of irrigation.

The latest accession to the group of buildings on the bluff tract is a handsome structure to be erected by the Bemis Omaha Bag company. The building will occupy a very sightly location at the west side of the bluff tract, directly east of the Auditorium building.

Exposition Freight Warehouse.

Manager Babcock of the Transportation department has completed arrangements for the freight warehouse on the exposition grounds and plans for the building will be completed in a few days. The warehouse will stand at the extreme northeast corner of the north tract and will be reached by a switch from the main line of the Missouri Pacific. Engineer Bush of this road has located this switch and it will be laid as soon as the material can be placed on the ground. This same switch will also serve as a means of getting into the Transportation building with the locomotives and trains of passenger cars which will form some of the exhibits in this building.

Work on Montana Building.

Work on the Montana state building has been ordered commenced at once and orders were given to push the construction with all possible speed in order to have the building ready before the opening day of the exposition. Leo Bonet has the contract for this building and he received these instructions from Vice President Sutherlin. The material was already ordered, the contract having been made before Mr. Sutherlin left for home last week, and no time will be lost by Mr. Bonet in getting started. The building will stand at the west side of the bluff tract just south of Emmet street, facing east.

Mr. Bonet has already been instructed to proceed at once with the construction of the building to be erected by the Liggett & Meyer Tobacco company of St. Louis. This building will occupy a space at the west side of the bluff tract just south of Pinkney street.

IOWA FINALLY GETS IN LINE.

Appropriates Twenty-Five Thousand Dollars for the Exposition.

The telegram announcing that the Iowa legislature had appropriated $25,000 for the erection of a building and for delaying the expenses of a state exhibit at the Transmississippi Exposition, was received with considerable satisfaction in this city, especially around exposition headquarters. All along there had been a feeling that when the time came, Iowa would do the right thing by the exposition, but there were some who feared that the legislature would put the matter off until the last minute and that then it would be so late that the state could not be represented in a creditable manner.

The fact that the legislature has appropriated the sum of $25,000 put Iowa well up in the front ranks of transmississippi states, this sum being exceeded by only Nebraska, which appropriated $100,000, and Illinois, which appropriated $45,000 for a building and an exhibit. With the appropriation that has just passed the legislature, Iowa will have the sum of $35,000 available for a building and an exhibit, the sum of $10,000 having been appropriated by a former legislature. With the money now available, the Iowa commissioners will begin active operations and will have the building and the exhibit ready for the opening day of the great show.

While the Iowa commissioners have done little in the way of preparing to build, they have gone so far as to secure plans for the state building and now they will advertise for bids at once. They expect to award a contract within the next fifteen days and begin work upon the building immediately thereafter. They have made considerable headway in securing an exhibit, having already worked up an interest among the farmers, manufacturers and business men of the state. In addition to this, they have the exhibit that was displayed at the last state fair and much of the exhibit that was shown at the World's fair. With this and what they can gather within the next sixty days, it is certain that the state will be represented in a manner that will be satisfactory to the residents of the great commonwealth.

The site for the Iowa building was selected months ago and has been held by the exposition managers, they believing that the legislature would make a good sized appropriation. This site is regarded at the choicest upon the grounds. It is located just west of the Nebraska building, facing the grand plaza, surrounded by large trees and flowering shrubs.

SUTHERLIN STIRS UP MONTANA.

Vice President of the Exposition Awakens Great Enthusiasm.

Vice President Sutherlin of Montana is arousing the people of his state to the pitch of enthusiasm reached by him during his recent visit to Omaha and is quoted at great length by the local papers. A recent issue of the Helena Independent contains a column interview with Mr. Sutherlin, in which he speaks in the most enthusiastic terms of the exposition and the many benefits which Montana will gain by the exhibit which will be made. In this connection it may be noted that a check in full payment for Montana's space was received yesterday at exposition headquarters in this city.

Among other statements made by Mr. Sutherlin in the interview printed in the Independent is the following: "Space is in great demand at the exposition. The people of the east are awakening to an appreciation of the importance of the exposition, and double the space available could be disposed of before the exposition opens. I could have sold the space assigned to Montana in the Agricultural building for $5 a foot, such is the demand for more room. Some of the states were indifferent and slow, but now they're running to get lots for their state buildings and space for exhibits, and already the space in some of the buildings has all been taken. This is especially the case in the Agricultural building. This is one of the largest buildings, about 90x700 feet, with a thirty-foot gallery all around, and every foot of the main floor has been allotted, while some of the states have had to go into the gallery.

"The rapid advance made by the exposition management during the last three months is ample assurance that the exposition will be ready to open June 1. A person must see the work that is going on there before he can appreciate the immensity of the enterprise. The success of the exposition is assured. The interest in it is increasing every day. I am satisfied that Montana will be benefited for the money expended on its behalf and I feel sure that every dollar will be put where it will bring the best results."

MacDonald Claims His Due.

Garbagemaster MacDonald has notified the exposition authorities that he has the sole right to haul away the garbage and all offal from the exposition grounds, and serves notice that he proposes to protect his rights by not allowing any other person to do any hauling. As there will be a very large quantity of garbage to be disposed of the exposition authorities are estimating the cost of disposing of it at the enormous figures contained in the remarkable contract between the garbage contractor and the city.

GOVERNMENT BUILDING INTERIOR.

Preparations eBing​ Made for Its Decoration in Colors.

Preparations are being made for commencing work on the interior decoration of the Government building. A force of decorators from Washington is now enroute to Omaha, and these men will commence work on the building as soon as they arrive.

The main walls of the building have been covered with sheathing and will not be plastered. The sheathing will be covered with maroon colored burlap with black bands at the top and bottom of appropriate design. On this background a decoration of white and gold will be painted, forming a beautiful setting for the various exhibits. The national colors will be used freely in the decoration, and those who have seen the designs for this work declare that the effect surpasses any former attempt made by the government at any exposition.

Superintendent Farnan has been in consultation with the exposition management regarding the moivng​ of the railroad tracks at the south side of the main court nearer to the Government building in order to facilitate the handling of the heavy ordnance which will form a part of the exhibit to be made by the War department. There will be two heavy guns in this exhibit, one a six-inch and the other an eight-inch gun. These toys, with their carriages, will weight thirty-eight and forty-two tons respectively. Superintendent Farnan has asked the exposition management to have the south railway track moved to within forty-five feet of the south door of the Government building, to which point he proposes to construct a heavy platform for hauling the guns into the building.

In order to get the guns into the Government building it will be necessary to take out a section of the south wall on either side of the south doorway and replace it after the guns are in position. Arrangements have been made for doing this.

The government exhibits are not expected to arrive until about May 1. But a short time will be required for installation, as all preparations are being made before the exhibits are shipped and the assembling of the various parts is the work of but a short time. The government exhibits have always been ready on time at every exposition and there has been no indication that this exposition will be any exception to the rule; on the contrary, everything has been moving with the greatest speed and nothing has occurred to indicate the least hitch in the program.

MONTANA WILL HAVE A BUILDING.

Silver State Proposes to Be Right in Line.

HELENA, Mont., March 29.—(Special Telegram.)—The recommendation of Commission Southerlin that Montana should have a building at the Transmississippi and International Exposition at Omaha have met the approval of Governor Smith and the other members of the commission. Governor Smith said today: "We have decided to follow Mr. Southerlin's recommendations. I think that about $4,500 will be spent on the building. That amount judiciously expended will give us a commodious structure. From what Mr. Southerlin said it was very apparent that the state should have a building. The commissioners all favor it."

This will be welcome news to Montanans who are anxious to have the state make a good showing at Omaha in a modest way without lavish expenditure, as was the case at the World's fair. The first load of Montana's exhibits, consisting of a very fine collection, left yesterday in a special car over the Great Northern road. Shipments hereafter will be made at regular intervals.

Boomed Omaha and the Exposition.

John W. Barry, editor of the Northwestern Lumberman, published at Chicago, is spending a few days in Omaha. The last issue of his paper might almost be designated an Omaha edition, as this city was brought into such prominence. In the first place there were several pages devoted to a careful and very full report of the doings of the lumbermen of Nebraska at their recent meeting in this city, and several more pages descriptive of the Nebraska lumbermen's excursion to the northern mills. Considerable space was also given to a description of the exposition, full page engravings accompanying the descriptive matter.

Organizing Pennsylvanians.

A meeting of the Pennsylvania society will be held at noon Saturday in the directors' room at exposition headquarters for the purpose of completing arrangements for the program on "Pennsylvania day," and entertaining the people from that state who will visit the exposition on that occasion.

Major Clarkson is hunting natives of eastern states with a view of having them start a movement for the organization of societies of natives of each of these states along the same lines as those governing the Pennsylvania society.

California's Beauties.

Manager Lindsey has received California's contribution to the exposition medal. Vice President Parsons having selected Miss Margaret Winston and Miss A. Montgomery, both of Los Angeles, as the two handsomest young women in the state. The photographs have been sent to New York to be incorporated in the composite photograph which will form the model for the head on one side of the exposition medal.

Mesa County's Fruit.

Mesa county, Colorado, is making energetic preparations for a fine display of fruit at the exposition. The people of that county have organized an association to carry this purpose into effect, and a large number of boxes of fruit have been placed in cold storage. The exhibit will be distinctly horticultural, and it is promised that the showing will be very fine.

INDIANA MAN SOON CONVINCED.

Governor's Agent Gets Ocular Evidence of Exposition Greatness.

D. M. Parry of Indianapolis is in the city as the representative of Governor Mount of Indiana, who sent Mr. Parry here to make a personal investigation of the exposition situation and report whether the roseate stories told in that state by emissaries of the exposition are based on fact or are mere figments of a vivid imagination.

Mr. Parry visited exposition headquarters yesterday afternoon and made his errand known to Major Clarkson and Secretary Wakefield. The latter showed the Indiana investigating committee a statement showing the financial condition of the exposition and contracts and other evidence of what had been done. The magnitude of this showing surprised Mr. Parry, who admitted that it showed that operations were being conducted on a much larger scale than he had supposed. After this portion of his examination has been completed, Major Clarkson escorted Mr. Parry to the exposition grounds. This was the traditional "last straw," and Mr. Parry was amazed beyond expression. He looked the grounds and buildings over completely and when he returned to exposition headquarters he confessed to the greatest astonishment at the immense amount of work that had been accomplished for the money expended.

"The thing that is worrying me the most," said Mr. Parry, "is how I am going to convey an adequate impression of this thing to Governor Mount. Words will not express the wonderful things you folks have accomplished. It is far beyond the conception of anyone who has not seen it. I cannot find language that will convey to another the grandeur and magnificence of the work you are doing. I do not believe the governor will hesitate much longer when I tell him as best I can what has been done here.'

Police for the Grounds.

Chief of Police Gallagher and Manager Kirkendall of the Buildings and Grounds department are holding consultations regarding police protection for the grounds. Chief Gallagher says he will furnish protection for the grounds, but he says he cannot say at this time just how many men he will be able to assign to duty there, that matter depending largely upon the action of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners upon his request for more men.

Manager Kirkendall says the police force will be augmented by the exposition guards, who will co-operate with the police in every possible way, in addition to acting as guides and performing such other service as may be required of them.

IOWA COUNTIES CANNOT HELP.

Special Act Will Not Be Passed by the Legislature.

A telegram from Senator Pusey yesterday announced that there was no possibility of securing the passage of the special bill allowing Iowa counties to make appropriations of $5,000 and less for exhibits at the Transmississippi Exposition, and one source of income that was looked forward to by the Council Bluffs Exposition committee with considerable confidence has been effectually closed. The bill would have been pushed through the legislature long ago had it not been for the fear that its introduction would have interfered with the appropriation for the Iowa exhibit. Both houses had been carefully canvassed and the fact ascertained that a large majority of the members would have voted for the measure. It was also ascertained that a large number of counties throughout the state would have taken advantage of it and installed expensive and attractive exhibits. The opponents of the exposition measure were aware of the situation and purposely delayed the general appropriation in the hope that the friends of the special bill would not be able to overcome their impatience and would introduce it. There would have been no opposition to its passage, but it would have effectually killed the appropriation. Senator Pusey was urged to make the effort to get it before the legislature, and when he returned to Des Moines on Tuesday he promised to take it up at once and if there was any chance for its enactment to push it through. His telegram yesterday simply stated that owing to the fact that the legislature was on the eve of adjournment and the great mass of unfinished business on hand it would be impossible to secure any consideration for a new measure.

The result is disappointing to the local association, but not at all discouraging. Enough money is in sight to build the wigwam. The appropriation that was practically assured from the county would have been of material assistance in the work. The changed situation will not call for any material modification of the original plans for raising the money necessary to pay for the big building. Three floors will be placed in the structure, and the space leased to exhibitors. Enough applications have been received to make a fund that will go a long way toward defraying the cost of the building. One new proposition comes from a maker of pumps and windmills, who offers to furnish the power necessary to operate the hydraulic elevator that a local firm has offere​ to install. The proposition will probably be considered at the meeting of the association at the Grand hotel this evening.

END OF THE BUILDINGS IN SIGHT.

Exposition Association Has Nearly All Its Big Contracts Let.

The exposition management is now beginning to see the end of the list of buildings which must be erected in order to complete the preparations for the greatest American exposition ever held, and within a short time building operations on the part of the exposition will have been completed.

Little remains to be done in the main court except to construct the fountains, complete the colonnades and install the vases, statuary and other decorations which will contribute to the general beauty of the scene.

There will be a number of fountains, the largest one being in the Mirror. Two of large size will be at either side of Twentieth street just inside the main entrance to the main court, and others in the small parks at the eastern part of the main court. The only buildings in the main court yet to be constructed are the International building and the Girls' and Boys' building. Both are under contract and will be ready for occupancy before May 1, the contractors being required to complete the work before that time.

No additional buildings are to be constructed by the exposition on the bluff tract. The Horticulture building and the two restaurants at the east end of the viaduct are well under way, and all the other buildings on this tract will be erected by state commissions or private parties.

On the north tract the Transportation and Agricultural Implement building is making very rapid progress. The lumber for the immense structure is all on the ground and a large force of men is at work making the chips fly. The Dairy and Apiary buildings are also under way and the freight warehouse will be commenced in a few days. These complete the list on the north tract, with the exception of the stock sheds. The latter will not required until early in the fall and will probably not be erected until that time.

On the narrow neck of land connecting the main court and the north tract will be erected the Service building and the Fire and Police building. The latter is being advertised for bids and the former will be ready for advertisement within a few days. The Service building will furnish a place for the office force of the exposition, and one end of the lower floor will be arranged as a hospital with all the modern improvements for caring for the sick.

If the Indian bill is passed by congress, and there is every assurance that it will become a law in the near future, some kind of a large building will be required for the gatherings which will be occasioned by the Indian performances. No plans have been made for this, but the matter has been considered and no time will be lost when the necessity arises for such a building.

Bids for the construction of the Girls' and Boys' building were opened at the office of the Department of Buildings and Grounds as follows: Carpentry—A. G. Wahlstrom, $6,896; Westlake Construction company, $7,180; Thomas Herd, $7,400; George Moore & Sons, $7,477; William Goldie & Sons company, $7,740. Staff work—Alexander & Son, $2,750; Smith & Eastman, $1,975; F. A. Sieffert, $2,344. The lowest bids on these two branches of work make a total cost for the building of $8,471. These bids were laid before the executive committee by Manager Kirkendall yesterday afternoon and contracts ordered drawn with Wahlstrom and Smith & Eastman.

Executive Committee Makes Contract.

The executive committee yesterday authorized a contract to be made with H. H. Bright of Cleveland, O., for thirty-five registering turnstiles and the same number of ticket "choppers" for use at the entrances to the exposition grounds.

Contracts were also authorized with the Gardner Governor company of Quincy, Ill., and the Crane-Churchill company of Omaha for one boiler feed pump to be furnished by each company as exhibits.

Exhibit from Mexico.

C. R. Adams of Tuxpan, Mexico, has applied for space in which to exhibit a large collection of tropical plants.

KANSAS MEN MAKING PLANS

RESERVE SPACE FOR A STATE EXHIBIT

Commissioners Greef and Lamb Conclude Preliminary Arrangements with Exposition Managers for Their State's Participation.

A. C. Lamb of Wellington, Kan., a member of the newly appointed Kansas Exposition commission, has reached Omaha and announces that the arrangements for holding the first meeting of the Kansas commission in this city have been abandoned on account of the inability of the other members of that body to come here at this time. The first meeting of the commission will be held in Topeka tomorrow and it is the general understanding that the members will come to Omaha in a body within a few days, for the purpose of seeing just what has been done to make definite arrangements for space for the Kansas exhibit.

Mr. Lamb joined his colleague, Mr. Greef of Pittsburg, as soon as he arrived, and together they visited the exposition headquarters and held a conference with the officials of the Exhibits department. Desirable space was shown them in the main buildings and it was agreed that about 3,000 feet should be held for Kansas until the commission organizes and decides just what shall be done. After examining the plats Messrs. Greef and Lamb selected the following spaces in the buildings named: Mines, 960 feet; Agriculture, 720; Liberal Arts, 640; Horticulture, 378. The space in the Liberal Arts building will be occupied by an educational exhibit.

In addition to the space in the main buildings the two commissioners visited the grounds in company with Major Clarkson and selected a site on the bluff tract for the Kansas building, securing a most desirable location.

All of the action of the commissioners relating to the full commission when it meets tomorrow in Topeka for ratification, but Messrs. Greef and Lamb felt reasonably sure that they were acting in accordance with the ideas of their colleagues and that their selections will be approved.

SENTIMENT OF KANSAS PEOPLE.

Mr. Lamb endorsed all that had been said regarding the sentiment of the people of Kansas regarding state participation in the exposition. He is from Wellington, a prosperous town in the central southern portion of the state.

"It is now so near the opening of the exposition," said Mr. Lamb, "that we will be unable to make as fine a showing in agricultural and horticultural products as we would like to make, but we will be able to do better as soon as we can utilize our new crops. We have some material on hand in the way of grasses and grains and these will be utilized to the best advantage, but in vegetables and fruits we will be compelled to wait until the new crop is ready for use. My community is in the wheat belt, and out showing will be in the agricultural and horticultural lines; when we are prepared to make a showing in those lines it will be a fine one."

After visiting the grounds Mr. Lamb was in the same state of mind as every other visitors who comes from abroad his astonishment knew no bounds.

Messrs. Greef and Lamb returned home this evening.

WORK ON THE MIDWAY IS BOOMING.

Concessionaires Are Hurrying Their Buildings Along to Completion.

The Midway is the busiest place on the grounds and as the time for opening approaches the activity on this section of the grounds increases. A large number of the concessionaires are now on the ground overseeing the construction of their buildings and more are coming every day. By the latter part of next week every concession on the street will be under construction.

The Moorish village is growing rapidly. The handsome palace is nearing completion and a number of minor buildings have been started. The lumber for the Streets of Cairo is on the ground and works will be started at once. "Shooting the Chutes" is under construction, and the same is true of the Pabst pavilion, the Wild West show, Haegenbeck's Animal show, the Big Rock, the Cyclorama, Cosmopolis and the Concessionaires' club.

Several other concessionaires are on the ground and will commence work early next week. Among these are the Scenic railway, the Giant Seesaw, the Birth of Our Nation, the Chinese village and the German village.

So great has been the demand for space on the Midway that it has been necessary to extend that portion of the exposition south on Twentieth street toward the main court and attractions are being located all along the east side of the street as far south as International building.

DESK ROOM FOR SECRET SOCIETIES.

Secretary Campbell of the Nebraska Commission in a Quandary.

Secretary Campbell of the Nebraska Exposition commission is in a quandary regarding certain instructions given by the commission at its last meeting. The commission found that it had room in various nooks and corners of the rotunda of the Nebraska building for twenty desks, and it was decided to allow twenty of the secret fraternal benefit societies of the state to use these locations for headquarters, each society to furnish a desk and such other furnishings as they desired. The secretary was instructed to notify each of these societies of this action and inform them that space would be assigned to those applying as long as the space lasted. This instruction is the cause of the secretary's uneasiness. He has sent notices to all of the societies he could think of or learn about, but is afraid some of them may have been overlooked and feel slighted at not receiving a personal notice that the space may be had for the asking. He has received ten applications, leaving ten spaces which have not been assigned or applied for. He wishes all fraternal benefit societies to understand that they are welcome to room in the building for a desk to use as headquarters, but application must be made to him in person or by mail. The available space will be assigned as fast as applications are received and an influx of applications is looked for.

Drawings for Two Buildings.

Architect Walker is engaged in making perspective drawings of the Dairy and Apiary buildings. These drawings are well advanced and will be completed within a few days and turned over to the Publicity department for use in making cuts of those buildings for publication. The buildings are exactly the same in mass and general appearance, but the decoration is not the same. The ywill​ be very attractive in appearance and will be supplied with all the modern improvements for properly exhibiting the wares placed in them.

Jobbers and Manufacturers.

The jobbers and manufacturers of the city are unitedly following out the suggestion made by the Commercial club that they write to all the firms in New York state with whom they do business, asking them to join in a petition to the New York legislature to pass an appropriation for a state exhibit at the exposition. Secretary Utt has received word from a number of local houses, in which the latter say that they are following out the suggestion.

Arranges a Furniture Exhibit.

P. A. Selig, treasurer of the Theodore A. Koons company of Chicago, called at exposition headquarters in company with Furniture Commissioner W. I. Kierstead to close arrangements for 150 square feet of space in the Liberal Arts building for an elaborate exhibit of barbers' chairs and furnishings. After making a contract for the space Mr. Selig visited the exposition grounds in company with Mr. Kierstead and examined the space assigned to his company in the Liberal Arts building. He was greatly pleased with the location and expressed the greatest surprise at the grand appearance of the exposition grounds and the promise of a great exposition.

EXPLAINS SUPPLEMENT DEAL

ACTUAL COST OF THE SPECIAL ISSUE

Detailed Statement Showing the Advantage of the Plan from an Advertising Standpoint and the Expense of Printing and Mailing.

The regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of the exposition was held yesterday afternoon. The session was rather short and a small amount of business was transacted. The most important matter considered was the advisability of borrowing money to tide the exposition over the rough places before the opening of the gates and the executive committee was authorized to negotiate a loan if is becomes necessary.

The first business presented to the meeting was the Sunday closing question. It came up in the form of a protest of the Omaha Ministerial union against opening the gates of the exposition on Sunday. Along with this came the vigorous protests of the labor unions of the city against closing the gates on the only day in the week the working men and their families would have an opportunity of visiting the show. There was very little discussion of the matter, the consensus of opinion being that the time had not arrived to take this subject up for serious consideration, and all the papers relating to it were laid over.

Another matter which has caused the good people of this vicinity considerable food for discussion was brought up and disposed of by the adoption of the following resolution introduced by General Manderson.

Resolved, That it is the sense of the directors that the same policy be pursued by the management that was pursued at Chicago, Philadelphia and other expositions and that is, that the selling of beer and various light drinks be allowed, but that bars and the sale of whisky, liquors, etc., on the grounds be prohibited.

When the reports of departments were called for Manager Rosewater presented a written report of the Department of Publicity and Promotion and spoke briefly of the work which has been done during the last month by that department. He then asked the indulgence of the directors while he spoke of certain reports which have been industriously circulated regarding the alleged breach of trust perpetrated by the executive committee in voting $3,200 into the treasury of The Bee.

Mr. Rosewater read extracts from an editorial in the World-Herald in which charges were made that $3,200 had been voted by the executive committee to Mr. Rosewater as a gift, and said that the executive committee had been accused of committing a breach of trust in voting the funds of the exposition into the pockets of a member of the committee. He said he wished to explain certain things in connection with this matter in order that the executive committee might not be placed in a false light. Railway passenger men who recently met in Omaha to make rates for the exposition had said that fully 80 per cent of the people who will visit the exposition will come from a territory within a radius of about 250 miles from Omaha and the question which the executive committee had been considering was how to best reach all the people within this radius. It was the opinion of the committee that exposition literature should be placed in the homes of these people and the most important point to be decided was how this could best be accomplished.

EXPLAINS THAT SUPPLEMENT.

Mr. Rosewater said he regretted that Mr. Hitchcock was not present, as he wished to give him an opportunity to call in question the accuracy of the figures he should quote. He then stated that the Department of Publicity and Promotion had had little difficulty in reaching the people in the towns and cities all over the country, but difficulty had been encountered in reaching the farmers and people living in rural districts. Packages of pamphlets could be sent cheaply to the cities and towns and distributed without expense by railroad agents, but the rural districts could only be reached by mail and the element of cost was an important one. After full consideration of the matter, he said, he had recommended, and the executive committee had authorized, the issuance of 200,000 copies of a four-page exposition supplement of The Weekly Bee at a cost of $3,200. Mr. Rosewater then proceeded to draw a comparison as between the cost of printing and mailing 200,000 illustrated newspapers. The amount of matter in the four-page supplement of The Weekly Bee would be equal, he said, to the matter contained in the thirty-two-page pamphlets which have been issued by the department. In lots of 100,000 these pamphlets have cost from $745 to $750, making the cost of 200,000 copies $1,500. The agreement with The Bee Publishing company provides that the 200,000 copies of the regular issue of The Weekly Bee and the proposed illustrative supplement shall be mailed to farmers residing within a radius of 250 miles from Omaha. In order to send the same number of pamphlets through the mail would require the procuring of a list of 200,000 names, the cost of which would be at least $200, and the envelopes and work of addressing the pamphlets would cost at least $500 more, while the postage on the pamphlets at 1 cent each would amount to $2,000, making a total cost of $4,200, or just $1,000 more than was to be paid for the 200,000 copies of The Bee. As to the reasonableness of the charge made by The Bee Mr. Rosewater quoted still other figures. He said it would be necessary to have the work of the illustrated supplement done in a job office, because such fine work cannot be done by newspaper presses. For this work he presented competitive bids from the local job offices. He quoted these bids, the figures running from $1,452 to $2,018. The paper proposed to be used he said would be of an extra quality, costing from 5 to 6 cents per pound. The weight of the supplement would be eleven tons, and 200,000 copies of the regular edition would weigh 25,000 pounds, the postage on which would be $470. The cost of the list of names of farmers, the addressing of the wrappers and the work of mailing, etc., would bring the total cost up to $3,122. Mr. Rosewater produced a schedule of the figures he had quoted, which he said he would leave with the secretary to be examined by any person who cared to do so. This statement was as follows:

SUMMARY OF ACTUAL COST.

In closing his statement Mr. Rosewater called attention to the further fact that no money is to pass between the exposition and The Bee for this work, but the full amount of $3,200 is to be credited on his subscription of $5,000 to the exposition.

Several directors stated that they had not understood the matter before and there was not the slightest objection raised to the contemplated procedure.

WORK OF THE WAYS AND MEANS.

Manager Lindsey followed Mr. Rosewater with a report of the Ways and Means department. He said the recent work of the department had been announced through the newspapers and he had little to add. Regarding the instruction given him at the last meeting regarding bringing suits against delinquent subscribers of $500 or more, Mr. Lindsey said he had been out of the city so much that he had not had time to take action and he asked further time, saying that he would take action by May 1. He also requested authority to commence suits against delinquent subscribers of $50 or over. This was granted and he announced that these suits will be started by May 1.

In addition to this Mr. Lindsey, at the request of the executive committee, asked authority for the negotiation of a loan in case it becomes necessary to do so. After a short discussion this was agreed to and the committee was authorized to use its direction in the matter.

Manager Reed reported that the Concessions department had made sale of concessions amounting to $47,000, on which payments of $35,000 had been made in cash. The balance is due before June 1. He estimates the total receipts of his department up to June 1 at $70,000, being about $20,000 higher than any previous estimates.

On motion of Mr. Rosewater the board adjourned until 4 p. m. Tuesday next.

COUNCIL BLUFFS ASKS FOR HELP.

Enlists the County in Behalf of the Exposition Movement.

A committee headed by President Graham of the Council Bluffs Exposition association held a conference with the members of the Board of Supervisors yesterday afternoon and made a statement of the condition of the building fund designed for the erection of the Pottawattamie wigwam on the exposition grounds. This statement was of such a character that it indicated the necessity for financial assistance from the county. The matter had been thoroughly canvassed several weeks ago and the fact made prominent that there was a strong feeling on the part of a majority of the citizens of the county favorable to the board making a suitable appropriation for the purpose of a creditable exhibit of the county's products and resources at the exposition. The supervisors yesterday listened kndly​ to the suggestions made by Chairman Graham and no objections or criticisms were offered. The matter was not presented to the board in such a manner that it would call for any sort of commitment of the members, but merely the necessity for some action was urged. Every member showed the liveliest interest in the subject, and when the suggestion was made that the board adjourn and accompany the committee across the river for the purpose of viewing the exposition buildings the invitation was promptly accepted and a resolution was passed adjourning the board for the afternoon.

At 2 o'clock the members and the committee took a motor car for Omaha. Nearly al​ the afternoon was spent in viewing the sights around the exposition grounds and the board members returned in the evening more favorably impressed than ever with the importance of taking prompt action to assist the wigwam enterprise.

So far no particular amount to be appropriated has been suggested, but it has been ascertained that the individual members have fixed amounts in their minds varying from $1,000 to $2,000. Either sum would be greatly appreciated by the exposition committee, but the latter amount would be received with devout thanks. The board will take up the matter when it meets again this morning. One or the other of these amounts will be appropriated unless the board is shown that there is positively no warrant in law for it.

FIREMEN'S TOURNEY COMMITTEE.

Members of the National Association in Omaha to Talk Business.

The executive committee of the National Association of Firemen is in the city for the purpose of consulting with the exposition management regarding the inducements which will be offered for the holding in Omaha during the exposition of a national firemen's tournament. Those constituting the delegation are Fred A. Wood of Cedar Falls, Ia., president of the National association and of the Illinois association; H. S. Salisbury of Whitewater, Wis., treasurer of the National association; C. Hill Porter of Carthage, Mo., secretary and treasurer of the Southwestern Firemen's association; T. Hargiss of Weir City, Kan., director in the Southwestern Firemen's association and chief of the Weir City fire department, and I. E. Alderman of Marion, Ia.

This committee was taken in charge by Major Clarkson of the exposition executive department and escorted to the exposition grounds. Before going to the grounds the committee assembled in the office of Chief Redell in the city hall. In reply to questions members of the committee stated that before leaving Omaha a meeting will be held to decide whether the tournament shall be held in Omaha or be located at some of the other points which are making overtures for the meet. They said that Detroit is making strong efforts to have the tournament held in that city, but the members of the committee agree that the prospects for a large attendance at the tournament would be much better in Omaha than in Detroit, on account of the large number of people who will be in the city attending the exposition. They stated that they expect an attendance of at least 50,000 firemen aside from the large number of people who will be drawn to the city by the tournament. They expect to hang up large purses as prizes in the different classes and the size of the purses will be very largely regulated by the prospective gate receipts.

The committee will meet with President Wattles and Chief Redell, in whose hands the details of arrangements have been put and will then hold a meeting to decide whether the tournament shall be held in Omaha.

WORKING UP THE IOWA EXHIBIT.

Contract for Building to Be Let Within Two Weeks.

The Iowa Exposition commission met in Des Moines on Tuesday of this week and decided to confine the expenditures for an exhibit to a few departments. Every effort will be made to make a fine showing in agriculture, horticulture and dairy, and it is probable that provision may be made for a live stock exhibit when the proper time comes. All the details of the work will be under the general direction of Secretary Chase, who has had wide experience in exposition matters. He will open an office in Council Bluffs within a short time and will give his entire time to the work.

It was announced at the meeting of the commission that Iowa has been allotted space in the center of the Agriculture and Horticulture buildings, the most conspicuous and desirable space in the building.

The Iowa building will be constructed in accordance with the plans of Josslyn & Taylor of Cedar Rapids and will cost about $8,000. The contract for this building will be let within two weeks and work will be commenced at once. It is stated that a feature of the building will be the exhibition of paintings of Iowa artists. A skylight will be placed in the building and Iowa artists will be invited to send their paintings for exhibition.

Painting the Main Buildings.

Bids will be opened by the Buildings and Grounds department on Tuesday for painting the exterior of the main buildings. In accordance with the plan decided upon when the exposition was first outlined, the buildings will be given an "old ivory" tint, and the architectural adornment of each will be brought out by means of color decoration in bright tints, giving the entire main court a festival appearance in keeping with the occasion. The plans for this work have been prepared and the work of decoration will be pushed with all possible speed.

On Monday bids will be opened by the department for the construction of the Service building.

Arranging the Mining Exhibit.

David T. Day, commissioner of mining for the exposition, will leave at once for a visit to the mining states to see what each state has accomplished in the way of preparation for a mining exhibit and to make such changes and suggestions in the exhibit of each as will result in producing a harmonious result in the ensemble and create an exhibit of great interest as an educational factor. He will visit Colorado, California, Utah, Idaho, New Mexico, Arizona, Wyoming, Minnesota and the Black Hills district of South Dakota.

Notes of the Exposition.

The business men of Houston, Tex, have offered a prize of $100 for the design that will best represent Houston at the exposition.

Applications have been received from the Remington Arms company for an exhibit of firearms, and from the Shaw Piano company of Cleveland, O., for an exhibit of pianos.

Members of the Victoria Diamond Jubilee association and all persons of Canadian birth are requested to meet at the directors' room, sixth floor Paxton block, on Monday night, 8 p. m., for the purpose of perfecting an organization to help entertain British visitors to the exposition this summer.

Governor Mount of Indiana writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he is endeavoring to secure members of an Indiana Exposition commission, but is meeting with some difficulty in getting people to serve without remuneration. He says, however, that he expects to complete the commission within a short time.

Dr. E. E. Chivers, editor of the Baptist Union of Chicago, visited the exposition grounds this morning. He was highly pleased. The doctor, who had visited Nashville, said the Transmississippi Exposition far surpasses it, presenting artistic effects quite as impressive as the Columbian Fair architecture.

J. J. Leeson, the commissioner of New Mexico, who will have charge of the exhibit to be made by that territory, has notified the exposition management that he will be in Omaha about April 15 to prefect​ further details regarding his exhibit. A similar notice has been received from Vice President Shurtliff of Utah, who telegraphed that he will be in Omaha Tuesday next, to make final arrangements for the Utah exhibit.

The general conference of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at Independence, Mo., considered an invitation extended to the church by the exposition management to be represented at the exposition. A resolution that the last Sunday of this month be set aside for offerings from the members of the church for the maintenance of an exhibit at Omaha was defeated, and the matter was referred to the president and bishops of the church, who will report their views on the subject to the church.

PLANS FOR ANOTHER BUREAU

Women Appointed to Look After Social Entertainment of Noted Guests.

PRESIDENT WATTLES ON SCOPE OF WORK

Six Women Are Named and the Number Will Be Increased to Ten When the Occasion Demands Such Action.

The first meeting of the Bureau of Entertainment was held yesterday afternoon in the directors' room at exposition headquarters. The Bureau of Entertainment is to be charged with the duty of providing suitable social entertainment for the distinguished people who are expected to favor Omaha and the exposition with their presence. The members of the bureau will be expected to entertain at their homes on state occasions and assist in making the visit of prominent people to Omaha a memorable event.

Those constituting the Bureau of Entertainment at present are: Mesdames C. F. Manderson, C. W. Lyman, H. T. Clarke, G. M. Hitchcock, John L. Webster and F. P. Kirkendall. These women assembled in the directors' room, where they were addressed by President Wattles, who explained what the bureau would be expected to do and outlined the plan of organization which he believed best suited to the occasion. The women present were formally appointed by the president as the executive committee of the bureau and were given authority to increase their number to ten. When this number shall have been reached the ten women will organize by electing such officers as they consider necessary, after which they will still further increase their number to fifty, this number to constitute the full bureau.

The matter was talked over informally by the women without any definite action being taken and they adjourned until Tuesday, when a second meeting will be held.

FIREMEN'S TOURNEY COMMITTEE.

Members of the National Association in Omaha to Talk Business.

The executive committee of the National Association of Firemen is in the city for the purpose of consulting with the exposition management regarding the inducements which will be offered for the holding in Omaha during the exposition of a national firemen's tournament. Those constituting the delegation are Fred A. Wood of Cedar Falls, Ia., president of the National association and of the Iowa association; C. Hill Porter of Carthage, Mo., secretary and treasurer of the Southwestern Firemen's association and chief of the Weir City fire department, and I. E. Alderman of Marion, Ia.

This committee was taken in charge by Major Clarkson of the exposition executive department and escorted to the exposition grounds. Before going to the grounds the committee assembled in the office of Chief Redell in the city hall. In reply to questions members of the committee stated that before leaving Omaha a meeting will be held to decide whether the tournament shall be held in Omaha or be located at some of the other points which are making overtures for the meet. They said that Detroit is making strong efforts to have the tournament held in that city, but the members of the committee agree that the prospects for a large attendance at the tournament would be much better in Omaha than in Detroit, on account of the large number of people who will be in the city attending the exposition.   They stated that they expect all attendance of at least 50,000 firemen aside from the large number of people who will be drawn to the city by the tournament. They expect to hang up large purses as prizes in the different classes and the size of the purses will be very largely regulated by the prospective gate receipts.

The committee will meet with President Wattles and Chief Redell, in whose hands the details of arrangements have been put, and will then hold a meeting to decide whether the tournament shall be held in Omaha.

ALLEN ACCEPTS AN INVITATION.

Will Deliver an Address at Opening of the Exposition.

President Wattles returned home yesterday from a brief rest at Hot Springs, Ark., and found among the letters on his desk one from Senator Allen, accepting the invitation to deliver an address on the opening day of the exposition, provided matters were in such shape at that time as would permit him absenting himself from attendance upon the sessions of congress.

A letter from Secretary L. S. Scott of the Western Editorial association stated that the associatiton​ will meet in Omaha July 7 to 9 and asked that those dates be designated as "Louisiana days," in honor of the association. The president notified the secretary that the request would be complied with.

President Wattles has sent out letters to the governors and exposition vice presidents of each of the transmississippi states, asking them to select days during the exposition to be designated in honor of each of these states. Similar letters will be sent to the governors of each of the eastern states, making a like request.

The president is in receipt of replies to letters sent to the adjutant general of each state west of Ohio, inviting the militia of each state to camp at Omaha during the summer. These replies are nearly all favorable but a proviso is inserted that in the event of disturbance incident to the Cuban trouble the militia will probably be otherwise engaged.

The Kansas Editorial association has asked the exposition management to designate some day in July on which the members of that association may run an excursion from all points in their territory and visit the exposition.

Secretary Philip Andres of the Transmississippi Turnfest asked that provision be made for admitting to the drill grounds in the exposition grounds the classes and drill teams of the various Turner societies which will participate in the fest. It is proposed to hold these drills the afternoon of June 30, the opening day of the turnfest.

OHIOANS FORM AN ORGANIZATION.

Plan for Caring for Visitors from Their Native State.

A well attended meeting of natives of Ohio was held at the Commercial club rooms at noon yesterday for the purpose of taking steps to provide for the entertainment of visitors from that state who may attend the exposition. Luncheon was served and then the business of the meeting was taken up. It was decided to reorganize the old club which flourished a few years ago and the rules of that club were followed for the time being.

The election of officers resulted as follows: John L. Webster, president; J. C. Denise, first vice president; N. M. Howard, second vice president; N. A. Kuhn, third vice president; Judge W. W. Slabaugh, fourth vice president; H. L. Day, fifth vice president; John Q. Burgner, sixth vice president; W. W. Umsted, treasurer; Frank B. Barrett, secretary. The election of a board of trustees was deferred until the next meeting.

Jonathan Edwards, C. D. Thompson and Harrison were appointed a committee to draft a constitution and by-laws for the government of the club to be presented at the next meeting. They were instructed to place the membership fee at $1.

H. L. Day, G. W. Wright and N. M. Howard were appointed a committee to secure permanent headquarters for the club.

The next meeting of the club will be held at the Commercial club rooms at noon Saturday, April 16.

Poets Send Their Productions.

President Wattles has been overwhelmed with poems of all sizes and shapes, dedicated to the exposition and designed to be read as a part of the opening exercises of the great show. These have all been carefully filed away and the president puts in his leisure time perusing them and passing upon their literary merits. The latest addition to this collection was on the president's desk when he returned from a brief vacation. It was very handsomely gotten up, being neatly printed on silk bolting cloth with a typewriter. At one side of the writing was a tuft of golden rod, done in oil, and at the other side was a cluster of oats and a stock of corn. The whole was made in the form of a banneret, with a chain and rod to suspend it. The work was the production of Harriet W. Leighton of Lincoln, Neb.

Painting the Main Buildings.

Bids will be opened by the Buildings and Grounds department on Tuesday for painting the exterior of the main buildings. In accordance with the plan decided upon when the exposition was first outlined, the buildings will be given an "old ivory" tint, and the architectural adornment of each will be brought out by means of color decoration in bright tints, giving the entire main court a festival appearance in keeping with the occasion. The plans for this work have been prepared and the work of decoration will be pushed with all possible speed.

On Monday bids will be opened by the department for the construction of the Service building.

Arranging the Mining Exhibit.

David T. Day, commissioner of mining for the exposition, will leave at once for a visit to the mining states to see what each state has accomplished in the way of preparation for a mining exhibit and to make such changes and suggestions in the exhibit of each as will result in producing a harmonious result in the ensemble and create an exhibit of great interest as an educational factor. He will visit Colorado, California, Utah, Idaho, New Mexico, Arizona, Wyoming, Minnesota and the Black Hills district of South Dakota.

Notes of the Exposition.

The business men of Houston, Tex., have offered a prize of $100 for the design that will best represent Houston at the exposition.

Applications have been received from the Remington Arms company for an exhibit of firearms, and from the Shaw Piano company of Cleveland, O., for an exhibit of pianos.

Work on the Georgia building was commenced yesterday, Dunnavant & Thompson have the contract for this building, which is located on the bluff tract west and a little south of the Horticulture building.

The Department of Transportation has prepared for the use of exhibitors a pamphlet containing the rules and regulations governing the shipment of exhibits, together with such general information regarding the department as would be of interest to intending exhibitors.

Members of the Victoria Diamond Jubilee association and all persons of Canadian birth are requested to meet at the directors' room, sixth floor Paxton block, on Monday night, 8 p. m., for the purpose of perfecting an organization to help entertain British visitors to the exposition this summer.

The use of the Auditorium on the exposition grounds for the evenings of June 30 and July 1 and 2 has been granted to the Bureau of Education for use in connection with the musical congress. Concerts will be given in the Auditorium as an adjunct of the congress and the orchestra will participate.

Dr. E. E. Chivers, editor of the Baptist Union of Chicago, visited the exposition grounds yesterday. Hhe​ was very highly pleased. The doctor, who had visited Nashville, said the Transmississippi Exposition far surpasses it, presenting artistic effects quite as impressive as the Columbian Fair architecture.

Governor Mount of Indiana writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he is endeavoring to secure members of an Indiana Exposition commission, but is meeting with some difficulty in getting people to serve without remuneration. He says, however, that he expects to complete the commission within a short time.

The outlook for a New York building on the bluff tract is becoming very bright. The New York commission has an appropriation of $7,500 and a balance of $5,000 from the Nashville appropriation. The commission asked Dunnavant & Thompson of this city to submit a sketch of a building and this has been furnished. This firm built the New York building at the Nashville exposition.

J. J. Leeson, the commissioner of New Mexico, who will have charge of the exhibit to be made by that territory, has notified the exposition management that he will be in Omaha about April 15 to prefect​ further details regarding his exhibit. A similar notice has been received from Vice President Shurtliff of Utah, who telegraphed that he will be in Omaha Tuesday next, to make final arrangements for the Utah exhibit.

Indian Commissioner W. A. Jones, who was expected to reach Omaha early during the coming week, has sent word that he will be delayed a little longer by the failure of congress to pass the Indian bill. His visit was to be for the purpose of selecting a building for the Indian supply depot in Omaha and also to confer with Manager Rosewater of the Department of Publicity and Promotion regarding the proposed Indian congress.

The Logan (Ia.) Nucleus suggests that the people of the town prepare to profit by the proximity of the exposition by establishing a business of providing accommodations for visitors to the exposition by establishing a business of providing accommodations for visitors to the exposition who desire a convenient residence in the country. It argues that there is an excellent train service between Logan and the exposition grounds, requiring but about an hour each way, and urges the people to organize and prepare to go after the business.

The general conference of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at Independence, Mo., considered an invitation extended to the church by the exposition management to be represented at the exposition. A resolution that the last Sunday of this month be set aside for offerings from the members of the church for the maintenance of an exhibit at Omaha was defeated, and the matter was referred to the president and bishops of the church, who will report their views on the subject to the church.

Editors Coming to Omaha.

NASHVILLE, April 9.—At a meeting of the Tennessee Press association's executive committee here today it was decided that the association would visit the Omaha exposition, leaving here June 22.

INFORMATION FOR FARMERS

What the Agricultural Department Will Exhibit at Omaha.

INCLUDES ALL BRANCHES OF AGRICULTURE

Every Division of the Department Has Its Own Particular Plan Worked Out and the Whole is Arranged.

WASHINGTON, April 9.—(Special.)—While all Washington is actively interested in the preparations going on for the defence of the United States in its war with Spain, should such a thing come about, the various departments included in the government exhibit are earnestly preparing for the coming Transmississippi Exposition at Omaha. Considerable has been written about the exhibit which the Treasury department will make and also that of the Interior department, but little or nothing has yet been printed about the scope and effect of the Agricultural department show. Assistant Secretary Brigham, chairman of the government board, called upon the various chiefs of bureaus of his department last week with the request that they outline the subject matter of the exhibit which they will make under the head of agriculture. As a result a very interesting series of papers have been filed with the assistant secretary, descriptive of the particular exhibits which are now being prepared for transportation to Omaha.

The Agricultural department exhibit will be located in the southwest corner of the government building in a space somewhat larger than that occupied at the Nashville exposition. The alcove system of installation will be followed as far as possible, which will give two lines of exhibits; those fronting on the main aisle and those displayed on the rear aisle and abutting upon the walls of the building. The two exhibits on either end of the space, namely, the exhibits of the Weather bureau and the Bureau of Animal Industry, will have a frontage of twenty feet each, running back forty-two feet to the wall. The other main aisle of the exhibits are those of the divisions of chemistry, entomology and pomology. Back of these across the center aisle, running through the space north and south and occupying alcoves, will be installed the exhibits of the divisions of botany, forestry, vegetable physiology and the office of fiber investigations. The plan of installation will be similar to that at Nashville and the same colors will be used in the furniture and cases and in the fabric backgrounds. All woodwork will be painted in drop black with an "egg shell polish" and an old-gold scheme of color will be used in the paint and fabrics of interiors. Colonel Brigham is assisted in the details of preparation and installations by Mr. Charles Richards Dodge. The exhibit material of the Agricultural department will be shipped about the middle of this month.

DETAILS OF THE EXHIBIT.

The exhibit of fiber investigations will illustrate the flax and hemp industries of the world as far as it has been possible to secure the commercial varieties of the different countries. The specimens will be arranged in panels under plate glass and will be displayed around three sides of an alcove, making a display of forty-four feet in extent and about seven feet high.

One of the most interesting exhibits will be that of the Bureau of Animal Industry. Dr. Salmon, chief of the bureau, is particularly anxious that the object lesson contained in his department will afford ample opportunity for the thousands who will visit the exposition to learn something about this ever widening branch of the government. A practical demonstration of the inspection of pork, as conducted by the bureau at various packing centers of the United States, will be one of the chief features of the exhibit. Several assistant microscopists will be transferred from the South Omaha bureau to the exposition, where they will be engaged in the examination of pork samples furnished them daily from the South Omaha packing houses. There will be models of vats used in the dipping of sheep for scab. This will include a circular yard and vat attached as used in Australia for dipping sheep. Near this will be a model of the sheep vat in use at the Union stock yard, Chicago, for the same purpose.

In the dairy division there will be shown the composition of milk and its products, comprising eight series. A cheese weighing ten pounds and with it a series of glass jars, showing water, fat, curd, sugar and mineral matter, which are its component parts. There will also be exhibits of fowls affected with gape worm disease, samples of wool from various states and various breeds of sheep, a case containing models of horses' feet with various systems of shoeing, and pathological specimens in alcohol of diseased organs, being a portion of those collected by the scientific investigators of the bureau and illustrating the lesions found in animals affected with various diseases.

The display to be made by the division of agrostology will be of a character similar to that at Nashville and will consist of a number of pen drawings of grasses and a display of sheaves of grasses principally from the prairie and Rocky mountain regions.

WEATHER AND WOOD.

Prof. Willis L. Moore, chief of the Weather bureau, is especially anxious that his department give a good account of itself and has arranged for a display of the various instruments and apparatus used in making meterological​ observations, including types of the latest devices for reading and recording the elements, such as wind velocity, wind direction, temperature, rainfall, etc. He will place in position a complete printing and sterotyping​ outfit, by means of which a weather may will be prepared daily by the officials in charge of expert officials, and every effort will be made to fully and personally explain to all interested visitors the various instruments and their uses.

The government forestry exhibit planned for the Omaha Exposition will consist of two principal features in indoor and outdoor exhibits. The outdoor exhibit will show operations in forestry planting as actually practiced at agricultural stations in various western and other states. The indoor exhibit will consist of three features, monographs of important timber species for the west, a forest botanical display of about 200 or more transmississippi and other tree species, arranged in glass cases so as to reflect the wood, foliage, flowers and fruit, together with the geographical range, etc., and a series of relief models of farms showing the intimate relation of proper farm forest management in maintaining the highest efficiency of arable land.

Much is expected from the division of entomology and Prof. L. O. Howard, chief entomologist, in a letter to Assistant Secretary Brigham, states that his division will comprise a series of cases illustrating this growing industry. Especial exhibits will be made of insects which damage farm animals, fruits and fruit trees, corn and the small grains, forage crops and garden vegetables.

FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

The division of pomology will be represented by models, paintings, drawings and descriptions of such variety of fruits as are mainly adapted to the western and northwestern portion of the United State. There will be a miscellaneous collection of models which will partially represent the semi-tropical fruits of this country. In addition the division will endeavor to make theirs an educational exhibit by showing various samples of fruits in different grades and also the fruit in original packages as they are put on the market by the packers.

The exhibit of the division of botany will be devoted chiefly to pure seeds and poisonous plants, together with seed cleaning machinery and apparatus used for testing the purity and germinating capacity of seeds.

Owing to the lack of funds the division of vegetable physiology and pathology will prepare no special exhibit illustrating its work. An exhibit will be prepared under its direction, however, illustrating the cultivation of mushrooms.

The exhibit of the division of chemistry at the Omaha Exposition will relate solely to the beet sugar industry. On large screens will be shown enlarged photographs illustrating the buildings and portions of machinery and the beet yards of factories now in operation. Many of the pictures show trains of cars arriving with the raw materials, sheds stored with thousands of dollars worth of the sugar beet and great quantities of supplies, indicative of large disbursements to farmers, farm laborers, quarrymen, miners, etc. There will also be displayed a historical collection of American beet sugar from its first manufacture. Statistical charts, models of typical beets and samples of beets from various parts of the country will conclude an exhibit that cannot help but be one of the drawing cards at Omaha this year.

VOCAL MUSIC FOR THE EXPOSITION.

Local Chorus is Gaining in Numbers and Quality.

The Musical department of the exposition is now getting well under way, and the local chorus is gaining in numbers and in quality.

Arrangements are now in progress with regard to the procuring of copies of "Fair Ellen," by Max Bruch, a work for soprano and baritone solos, chorus and orchestra. The chorus work of this selection is especially strong. It is founded on the story of the relief of Lucknow, and the leading theme is the old Scotch melody, "The Campbells Are Coming."

Nothing has yet developed in regard to the chorus book, and if it cannot be had at once, it will be abandoned and another arrangement made for the securing of these choruses. The time is very short for rehearsals and the chorus is well able to do a large amount of work in a short time, so that a varied and extensive repertoire may be looked for.

Director Kimball is anxiously waiting for reports from some of the choral societies with which he has been corresponding. It is thought that a complete list of attractions will soon be given to the public.

NOBLE OLD CORN CRUSHER

SAVED MANY SETTLERS FROM STARVING

Curious Relic of the Early History of Nebraska Offered for Exhibit at the Coming Exposition.

A curious old relic of pioneer days in Nebraska has been put at the disposition of the exposition management by S. B. Parks of Scribner, one of the earliest settlers in Nebraska. It is a corn and cub crusher, which did noble service during the severe winters which marked the early history of the struggling territory. Mr. Parks wrote to Secretary R. W. Furnas of the Nebraska Historical society and offered to allow the old mill to be exhibited among the precious relics which the society has gathered from all quarters. He asked that transportation be furnished for the old mill, which is still intact. Secretary Furnas forwarded the letter to Secretary Wakefield and the latter has turned it over to Secretary O. C. Holmes of the Nebraska Millers' association, with the suggestion that the mill be installed as a part of the exhibit of milling machinery and products to be made under the auspices of the association. Secretary Holmes will lay the matter before the executive committee of his association at an early day and it is highly probable that the historic old relic will be given a prominent place in the exhibit of modern milling machinery.

The letter of Mr. Parks to Secretary Furnas contains a pathetic story in a few words. Aside from questions regarding shipment the body of the letter was as follows:

I have a cast iron corn and cob crusher which I think is the first grist mill in Nebraska territory. It was brought from Quincy, Ill., to Fontanelle, Neb., in 1855 by a Mr. Richardson. I bought it of his widow in 1860. It furnished the meal and "samp" that kept the people of Fontanelle from starving the terrible winter of 1856-7. It also furnished the principal food for all the pioneer settlers of Fremont, West Point, DeWitt and vicinity and Elkhorn valley as far as settled. It did good service in the winter of 1861-2. There was about two feet of snow on the level that winter and we had to grind corn and wheat in the old mill or starve. The grinding process was very simple—hitch a yoke of cattle on the end of the sweep, put your corn or wheat in the hopper and pound your oxen on the back. With a sieve you sifted the ground material. The course product was ground again. You could grind about ten bushels a day if you attended to business. Yet I must give the old mill credit for being industrious, for just as soon as it finished grinding one grain it commenced on another. Yet it was a great improvement on a coffee mill that we ground sod corn in in the winter of 1858. The hopper and sweep of the old mill are gone and the stump on which it rests is about two and one-half inches in diameter.

OUTLINE FOR MINING EXHIBIT.

Dr. Day Gives an Idea of How He Hopes to Arrange the Building.

Dr. David T. Day, the mining commissioner of the exposition, has started on a tour of the western mining states for the purpose of seeing to it that the magnificent mineral resources of the great west are fittingly represented in the Transmississippi Exposition. Dr. Day is chief of the Mining bureau of the United States Geological survey and has direct charge of the compilation of the mineral statistics which form such an important factor in the business of thise​ who have mining interests. His position in the government service not only gives him a knowledge of the resources of a given section and of where the best varieties of each mineral are to be found, but it also gives him an influence with the mine owners which makes them very desirious​ of complying with any reasonable request he may make. It is, therefore, practically assured that his visit among the mines of the mineral producing west will result in a mining exhibit which will surpass anything in that line ever attempted in any section of the country.

Dr. Day's idea of a mining exhibit is not to have the huge Mining building filled with minerals of various kinds, dumped in heaps with a view of realizing as much advertising benefit to the owner as possible, but he proposes, and says he will have, an exhibit in which the classification will be such that the exhibit will be an education in geology and the applied sciences. The various exhibits will be arranged in such a way that the raw material and the location in which it is found will be shown, followed by the numerous processes, in order, through which the raw material passes in order to produce the finished product.

With this idea in view the commissioner will visit the several mining districts to inspect the material that is being collected for shipment to Omaha. This inspection will probably result, in many cases, in a request for the elimination of some material deemed undesirable and the substitution of other material to make the exhibit more complete.

One governing desire on the part of Dr. Day is to make the exhibit of gems a prominent feature of the mineral exhibit. For this purpose he will endeavor to have displayed a fine collection of the beautiful turquoise found in New Mexico. A section will be devoted to the Idaho opals, which equal in beauty and value those of Hungary and Queensland. The beautiful blue sapphires which have lately been found in Montana will be added to the fine collection of lighter shades which is available for exhibition. Diamonds found in Wisconsin and the ebautiful​ topaz found in Utah and Colorado, some of it of a beautiful pink shade, will add variety to the beautiful tints of the gem section. A number of the magnificent quartz crystals recently found in California will probably appear in the collection and there will be garnets from New Mexico and Alaska and a new semi-precious stone from Utah—variscite.

In the gold section there will be nuggets in profusion. Alaska will be represented in a collection of huge lumps of the yellow metal and California and Colorado will be strongly in evidence in this section. Silver will be there, also, and Dr. Day has a pet project which he hopes to realize before his return from this trip, that of having a tall shaft in the form of a Corinthian column in the center of the building made of pure silver.

CRITICAL SITUATION IN MISSOURI.

State Commission Issues a Public Declaration of Intention.

Exposition matters have reached a crisis in Missouri. A meeting of the state commission was held in St. Louis Friday of last week at which the treasurer reported that $11,000 had been subscribed, although all of this had not been turned over to him. After a protracted session the commission issued a general notice to the public that unless $7,500 additional is subscribed by the date of the next meeting, April 22, the idea of having a state exhibit will be abandoned.

During the meeting the situation was thoroughly canvassed, and the members of the commission expressed themselves very freely regarding the apathy of several sections of the state. The "enterprising and rich town of St. Joseph," as one of the commissioners called it, was credited with exactly $7, and its generosity furnished a text for several "complimentary" remarks.

Each commissioner reported on the condition in his district, and it was the consensus of opinion that the state will be saved the humiliation of being counted among the absentees at the exposition, but it was agreed that whatever is done must be done quickly and public announcement was made that unless at least $7,500 additional is in hand by the next meeting every member of the commission will resign.

It developed at this meeting that there are a number of localities which have raised money for a local exhibit, and none of this money appears in the money collected by the commission. Individuals all over the state are also making preparations for exhibiting and activity in stock circles is especially noticeable. St. Louis firms have notified the commission that their exhibit of live stock will be four times as large as at the World's fair and the exhibit of horticulture will be one of the finest ever seen in the country. From the reports of the heads of the various departments it was evident that the space reserved by the commission will be entirely too small. Every department has asked for additional space.

Plans for the Missouri building have been drawn by L. C. Buckley & Bro., of St. Louis. It is to be 60x90, and is a very handsome looking structure. It will cost about $10,000.

NEW ENGLANDERS WANT A "DAY."

Natives of the Far East Arranging for Proper Recognition.

Natives of New England resident in Omaha have formed a New England association to provide for the entertainment of visiting New Englanders who may attend the exposition and to make arrangements for a "New England day."

A meeting was held in Major Clarkson's office at exposition headquarters and a temporary organization effected by the selection of A. P. Tukey of Maine as chairman and W. H. Alexander of Connecticut as secretary. The purpose of the meeting was discussed at some length and met with hearty approval, a committee consisting of one member from each New England state being appointed to formulate plans of organization and submit a report at an adjourned meeting to be held in the office of the Board of Park Commissioners at the city hall Friday, April 22. This committee consists of the following: A. P. Tukey, Maine; Dr. F. Brown, Maine; Colonel C. S. Chase, New Hampshire; George W. Holbrook, Vermont; George P. Bemis, Massachusetts; F. H. Chatfield, Connecticut; W. O. Taylor, Rhode Island.

It is the intention of those interested in this movement to endeavor to resurrect some of the latent organizations in this city composed of New Englanders, including the New   England society, of which Senator Thurston was the last president, and the Congregational club, of which Mr. Tukey was the last president. Efforts are to be made to induce all natives of the New England states now residing in Omaha to unite with the society in order to make its work more effective. In this connection all persons eligible to membership in the society are invited to attend the meeting to be held in the city hall April 22 to perfect a permanent organization.

WORK FOR EXPOSITION COMMITTEE.

Change in Nature of the Wigwam Comes with County's Help.

A special meeting of the executive committee of the Council Bluffs Exposition association will be held in the Grand hotel this evening. It is earnestly desired that every member of the committee of fifty be present. One of the matters to be considered is the immediate preparation for beginning the work of constructing the big wigwam. While this work is under the immediate direction of the wigwam and building committees there will be duties connected with its construction that will call for the best energies and hearty co-operation of every member of the committee. Another matter to be considered is the arrangements for preparation of the exhibits. The donation of $2,000 by the county board gives every citizen of the county a direct interest in the enterprise and robs it of any distinctive Council Bluffs character that many of the farmers and out of town fruit raisers have felt inclined to attach to it. It is an enterprise in which the people of the entire county are interested, and the association desires to take some steps tonight that will enlist the people of the county generally in the magnificent exhibit in the strikingly original structure that will be one of the most characteristic features of the entire exposition.

Other matters will also be up for consideration, and it is probable that a number of communications will be presented to the association. The necessity will also be urged for the prompt collection of the $3,000 on the subscription lists, so that the entire fund can be made immediately available. The work of construction, it has been decided, shall be under the immediate supervision of President A. C. Graham, and the building committee with his approval, will also have the privilege of employing all of the workmen engaged in the construction of the building.

Notes of the Exposition.

Exhibits from fourteen White Pine county, Nevada, mines have been forwarded to Omaha for the mining exhibit.

Vice President S. J. T. Johnson of Texas has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he has raised the funds and material for a Texas exhibit and will forward the first payment for the necessary space to the Exhibits department at once.

McClure's Magazine has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that its special artist will visit Omaha within a few days to prepare illustrations for an exposition article to be written by William Allen White. Mr. Jaccaci, the art manager of the magazine, will also come to Omaha to supervise the work.

The model of the battleship Maine, which has attracted a great deal of attention lately, has been removed from its glass case in the corridor near the door of Secretary Long in the State, War and Navy department building at Washington and has been packed for shipment to Omaha, where it will form a part of the exhibit to be made by the Navy department.

The funds collected by the various Idaho counties for the state exposition commission have commenced coming into the hands of the commission, and C. W. Moore of Boise has been appointed treasurer of the body. The Oregon Short Line has taken an active part in the matter of a state exhibit and is lending its assistance in every possible way. The commission report a good outlook for a fine state exhibit.

A report from Massachusetts is to the effect that Governor Wolcott informed a committee representing the various trade and commercial organizations of the state that he believed the time too short for Massachusetts to erect a state building at the exposition, but he favored the idea of having the state formally represented at the opening by a commission, and he is believed to be in favor of an appropriation to defray the expenses of such a commission.

OUTLINE THE COLOR SCHEME

ARCHITECTS-IN-CHIEF SUBMIT THEIR PLAN

Transmississippi Exposition Buildings to Present a Beautiful and Varied Arrangement of Warm Tones and Rich Tints.

Visitors to the exposition grounds during the last few days whose eyes have been dazzled by the glare of the sunlight reflected from the white buildings, will be gratified to learn that preparations are now making for painting the buildings and modifying the garish tone by the use of a soft tint which will be more agreeable to the eye while adding greatly to the effectiveness of the architectural beauty of the scene.

The entire exterior of the building in the main court will be painted a rich cream or old ivory tint, and the architectural adornment will be accentuated by the use of colors. Bids have been opened at the office of the Department of Buildings and Grounds for coloring the buildings with this tint of old ivory, and the work of bringing out the ornaments by the use of color has been placed in the hands of Walker & Kimball, the architects-in-chief.

The use of color as an adjunct to the architecture of the building will mark a departure from the methods which have obtained in previous expositions in this country. By this means the exposition buildings will be given a festival appearance in keeping with the uses to which they are devoted, and the monotony which would otherwise prevail will be relieved by the moderate use of subdued tones.

The Agriculture building will be the most elaborately decorated of any in the main court, for the reason that its architecture depends upon the use of color. The main window bays will be decorated with fruits and flowers on a warm background and the tympana, (the flat, plain surface above the windows) will be decorated with repeated yard fowls. The ntrances​ will be decorated, warm, rich colors being freely used in the lofty arches of the main entrance, and the half lights in the loggias at either end of the building being relieved by the use of colors. Gold bronze will be freely used to bring out the important points in the decoration.

The ornament of the other buildings will be mostly conventional. The dome of the Mines building will show the panels in rich colors and the ribs gilded. The Art building will be "done" in faded tones that will not detract from the architectural adornment. The domed ceiling of the lower arch in the Administration building, and the loggias back of the columns in the uppor​ portion of the building will be decorated in colors and gold. The background of the rosettes in the main arches will be gilded and the colors in the half lights will be rich and strong. On the Machinery and Electricity building color will be used as a background for the ornament and the latter will be "picked out" in bright colors.

The colonnades will be treated in tones harmonizing with the buildings adjacent to them and the domes of the pavillions​ of the colonnades will be gilded.

Preparations are being made by Walker & Kimball to commence work on the color decoration as soon as the buildings are ready for that portion of the work.

But one bid was received at the office of the Department of Buildings and Grounds for the tinting of the exterior of the buildings in the main court. This bid was submitted by Smith, Eastman & Allen and aggregated $9,619 for the buildings now erected. A bid was also submitted for painting the fence which surrounds the exposition grounds, John Woerheide offering to do the work for $1,700.

AFRO-AMERICAN VILLAGE PLANS.

Promoters Expect to Surprise the Public with Their Show.

County Commissioner Hoctor and J. P. Findley, who have the concession for the Afro-American village at the exposition, have their plans complete and will begin work next Monday morning with a large force of men. The village will be upon the East Midway and will be located directly opposite the Moorish village.

Mr. Hoctor says: "We will put on a show that will surprise the amusement-seeking people who come to the exposition and at the same time we will show the past and present conditions of the colored people. We have plans for twenty-one building. There will be the old plantation cabins, built of logs and chinked with mud. These will represent the life of the negro in the south as it existed thirty-five years ago. The cabins will be equipped and furnished with all the appliances as they were at that time. Then there will be the cotton gin of the old times and the slave market, where daily sales will be held, colored men, women and children being placed upon the block and offered at auction to the highest bidders. In addition to this we will have a number of neat cottages, enabling us to show the home life of the colored man of the present date.

"We do not propose to have northern colored people, but instead we will have the genuine articles from the plantations of the south. We have arranged to have 150 colored people in the village, where they will render the southern songs and all of the plantation dances. There will be cotton and tobacco fields, all of which will be worked by colored people."

The Afro-American village will cover a tract of ground 170x170 feet. Aside from the cabins the buildings will be neat and attractive structures, covered with staff.

FIRST OF THE EXPOSITION STAMPS.

Postoffice Department Gets Proofs from Bureau of Engraving.

Samples of three of the exposition memorial postage stamps have been received at the Postoffice department from the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. These were the 1-cent, 4-cent and $2 stamps. All of the stamps will be of two colors, the picture in the center being printed in black and the border being in color. The rules of the International Postal union will be observed as to the color of the stamps, where they apply. Under these rules the 1-cent stamp will have a green border, the 2-cent will be red and the 5-cent a dark blue. The colors of the other stamps will be regulated by the Postoffice department.

The 1-cent exposition stamp bears a view of Marquette discovering the Mississippi and represents Marquette sitting in his priestly robes in the midst of a group of Indians in war paint and feathers, with the great "Father of Waters" in the background.

The 4-cent stamp represents an Indian hunting buffalo and is taken from a steel engraving in Schoolcraft's "Indian Tribes." A magnificent specimen of the bison is shown in full gallop, with an Indian astride a pony close upon his heels, the savage having his bow and arrow in action.

The $2 stamp is entitled "Harvesting in the West," and represents a farmer operating a four-horse plow.

The color to be given the 4-cent stamp and the $2 stamp has not yet been determined. As soon as this is decided the stamps will be printed and put on sale.

Settles for Elliott's Forgery.

The loss to the banks of St. Louis on account of the forged drafts on Omaha parties presented to the banks by a man calling himself William Elliott, who was in St. Louis last fall as a representative of the exposition, has been made good by the full payment to the banks by the exposition management of the amount secured by Elliott. Elliott came to Omaha and succeeded, by means of a good address and oily manners, in securing a berth as the representative of the exposition in St. Louis. He carried letters of recommendation from numerous Omaha parties and was shown every courtesy by the business men of St. Louis. In return he presented two drafts, which were cashed, Elliott receiving $400. The drafts proved to be forgeries, and the exposition management was asked to reimburse the banks for the loss on account of its agent. The matter was carefully considered, and it was decided, on account of the friendly interest in the exposition manifested by the people of St. Louis, to pay the money, and this has been done.

BAND MUSIC FOR THE EXPOSITION.

Director Kimball Announces Contracts with Noted Organizations.

Musical Director Kimball reports that all arrangements have been completed for the band music of the exposition during the first three months it will be open. The organization which will furnish the outdoor music of the exposition will be among the very finest musical organizations in the world. Prominent among this class stands the famous United States Marine band, acknowledged to be one of the most efficient organizations of its kind: This band will play on the exposition grounds for a period of five weeks, an engagement for the full band having been closed by telegraph yesterday. The Bellstedt-Ballenberg band of Cincinnati, an organization of fifty men, will play a four weeks' engagement. Phinney's United States band of Chicago will appear for four weeks, with forty-five men, and the famous Mexican band of seventy pieces will play an engagement of six weeks. This will carry the music to about August 1, and in the meantime negotiations are in progress for other organizations.

The Theodore Thomas orchestra has been engaged, as heretofore announced, for a period of five weeks to play in the Auditorium with the privilege on the part of the exposition of extending the engagement.

Director Kimball has gone to Chicago on business in connection with the musical department.

North Dakota Revives.

A meeting of real estate men from all parts of North Dakota has been called to meet at Fargo, April 21, for the purpose of considering ways and means for making an exhibit at the exposition. The call for the meeting has been issued by Colonel C. A. Lounsberry, vice president of the exposition for that state. He estimates that the cost of making an exhibit will be from $6,000 to $10,000, of which amount several counties have already pledged a portion. The six counties in the Red River valley have been asked to contribute $250 each and the western counties according to their ability, while the state is asked to contribute $1,000 from the emergency fund.

Arkansas Women Interested.

Governor Jones of Arkansas has increased the Arkansas Exposition commission by appointing seven women as commissioners, as follows: Mrs. John H. Rogers, Fort Smith; Mrs. E. D. Pillow, Helena; Mrs. J. S. Thomas, Clarendon; Mrs. W. G. Vincenheller, Fayetteville; Mrs. E. W. Rector, Hot Springs; Mrs. Paul Jones, Texarkana; Mrs. A. J. Vance, Harrison. These women have been asked to appoint a Little Rock woman to serve with them.

Miss Rose Bennett of Little Rock has been appointed by the commission to take charge of the school exhibit of the state and she has taken the work in hand.

Badges for Coming Teachers.

The executive committee of the Transmississippi Educational Congress has received the state badges which are to be issued to prospective members. These are very handsome and artistic souvenirs and will be issued at once. The local committee on entertainment has also designated the headquarters for several of the state delegations. The general headquarters will be at the Millard hotel. The Nebraska delegation will be established at the Dellone, the Missouri and Kansas people at the Paxton and the Iowans at the Mercer. The headquarters of other states will be announced in a few days.

To Confer with Garland.

Secretary Ford of the Woman's Board of Managers has gone to Chicago to confer with Hamlin Garland, who has accepted the position of chairman of the Authors' congress, which will be conducted under the auspices of the board. The purpose of Mrs. Ford's conference with Mr. Garland is to formulate plans for the congress and to secure the selection of other members of the committee who will be associated with Mr. Garland.

Mrs. Ford will also consult with the management of the Armour Institute regarding an exhibit at the exposition by that institution.

Canadians to Organize.

Pursuant to a call the Canadian-Americans met in the parlor of Labor temple last evening to discuss the advisability of organizing a Canadian club to entertain Canadian visitors and influence Canadians to attend the exposition. After thorough discussion of the subject it was decided to call another meeting for Thursday evening at the Merchants' hotel at 8 o'clock, for the purpose of organizing a permanent club to carry out the object.

[?]the Ethical Work of the Exposition.

It begins to look as though one marked feature of the gatherings to be held in this city during the exposition would be a Congress of Religious Activities. A meeting was held Monday afternoon at the Commercial club rooms, when the general idea of the gathering was presented to the laymen who assembled. They instantly recognized and heartily approved the scope and breadth of the plan.

As stated, the project includes a setting forth, by prominent men of all shades of belief, the various ways in which the religious spirit of the age is making itself felt. The plan, while exceedingly flexible and capable of contraction or expansion as might seem best, suggested the consideration of these seven departments of religious activity: (1) Missionary, (2) Philanthropic, (3) Social, (4) Interdenominational, (5) Temperance, (6) Educational, (7) General Reforms.

The World's Congress of Religions brought into prominence the beliefs of different religious bodies, but the idea now in mind is to call attention to the activities which are the product of the religious spirit. This is peculiarly a western notion, for here we emphasize deeds more than creeds. It was conceded by those who conferred that such a congress would interest a very large number in this transmississippi region and might be made the leading feature of the congress work. It was the opinion of those who met that with such a plan carefully arranged the leading speakers of the country could be brought here and permanent good would result.

Another meeting will be held on Friday evening at 8 o'clock in the room of the directors of the exposition, sixth floor of Paxton block, when it is hoped that those interested will be present to consider the whole scheme.

PLANNING FOR THE BIG WIGWAM.

Getting Things in Shape to Begin Work of Construction.

The construction of the big wigwam was the sole subject of discussion at the meeting of the Transmississippi association last night. The chief element of contention was the manner in which the work was to be done. It was decided that the building committee should make all of the contracts for material, and call for bids from contractors to do the work. A resolution was passed instructing the building committee to advertise for bids to be in by Monday, in time to present to the meeting of the associatiton​ on that evening, and that the bidders should be restricted to residents of this county.

The question of the grand stairway contemplated in the original plans was referred back to the building committee, with instructions to decide upon the matter in some way that would permit the contractors to bid intelligently upon the work to be done.

It was decided that the general character of the wigwam should be "a comfort home" for the use of the people of Pottawattamie county when they visited the exposition, where they could stop and rest, eat their lunches and have packages checked without cost. It was not definitely decided whether this "general comfort room" should be located on one of the upper floors or be given a prominent location on the ground floor. This will be definitely determined by the decision concerning the stairway and elevator. The building committee, however, was instructed to provide offices and check rooms on the ground floor, of easy access to visitors. Colonel W. F. Baker, member of the Board of County Supervisors, was present and received a vote of thanks of the association to the county board for the liberal donation. Colonel Baker and President Graham were also added to the building committee.

A resolution was passed instructing each member of the committee on exhibits to provide himself with a diagram of the ground floor for the purpose of offering space to exhibitors with orders to make an active canvass for the sale of as much space as possible. It was decided to require a bond of $500 from each of the contractors submitting bids to do the construction work on the building.

General E. F. Test submitted a resolution instructing the association to ask the city council to appropriate $1,000 from the water fund to be used for sprinkling and other purposes in connection with the maintenance of the wigwam. The resolution was referred to George F. Wright for further consideration.

Secretary Judson reported that the women who had generously assisted the association in its work of raising funds had arranged for an entertainment at the Dohany theater on Thursday night, when a series of fine stereopticon views of Cuba and the war ships will be shown. It was decided that no further action should be taken concerning the other projected entertainments until the next meeting, and to relieve the women of their work if it was found enough money was in sight to meet all of the obligations of the association.

Bids on the Service Building.

Bids for the construction of the Service building were laid before the executive committee yesterday afternoon. This building is designed for headquarters of each of the departments of the exposition and the north wing of the building [?] emergency hospital. The visiting newspaper men are also provided with spacious quarters in the proposed structure. The bids were as follows: Carpenter work—Westlake Construction company, $9,890; George Moore & Son, $12,350; John Rasmussen, $12,255. Staff work—F. A. Seiffert, $2,793; Smith & Eastman, $3,585. The bids were referred to a special committee to confer with the architects with a view of cutting down the expense of the building.

Manager Reed was authorized to make contracts with W. T. Higgins for the sale of sea shells and shell goods in the Liberal Arts building; with George T. Boyer for the exclusive right to sell chewing gum and candy in two of the main buildings and on the grounds, exclusive of the Midway; and with Lacy & Craig for the privilege of selling buffalo horns on the grounds.

Wyoming Authorities Take Action.

At a recent meeting held in Cheyenne, Wyo., at which there were present Governor Richards, State Engineer Mead, President Graves of the Wyoming university and a number of prominent business men, it was decided that the governor should at once send a committee to each county of the state for the purpose of raising by subscription sufficient funds to form a nucleus for an exhibit and that individuals and corporations be invited to exhibit their resources in the space reserved for the state. As soon as a sufficient amount is secured the governor will appoint a commission to take charge of the exhibit.

Florida Moves for a Building.

A meeting of the Florida Exposition commission was held in Jacksonville recently, at which it was decided to undertake the erection of a state building on the exposition grounds at a cost of about $3,000. An executive committee was appointed to take full charge of all the details of the work, and the state was divided into districts, each member of the committee being placed in charge of one of the districts, with instructions to at once begin the collecting of subscriptions for the purpose of making a state exhibit. It was estimated that about $25,000 would be required for a good exhibit and an effort will be made to raise this amount.

Planning the Military Camp.

A license for the use of the buildings on old Fort Omaha reservation has been received by President Wattles. These buildings will be thoroughly renovated and put in condition for use for such purposes as they are best adapted in connection with the military camp which will be established on the reservation. The executive department is continuing its efforts to acquire the use of land surrounding the old fort for the encampment of the militia of the various states which will visit the exposition and make their annual summer camp here. These efforts are meeting with success and a large tract of suitable land has been secured for this purpose.

Replies continue to be received from the commanding officers of the various state troops and these replies indicate that in the event of the militia not being otherwise engaged the military feature of the exposition will be a very prominent one.

PUTS HITCHCOCK IN A HOLE

STILL AT HIS SANDBAGGING TACTICS

Malicious Attack Upon the Executive Committee of the Exposition Proves a Boomerang—Plans for Exposition Hotel.

The board of directors of the exposition association held an adjourned session yesterday afternoon which was attended by a bare quorum of the members. A marked feature of the meeting was an attack upon the executive committee by G. M. Hitchcock in line with the charges which have appeared in the editorial columns of his paper and the refutation of these charges by Mr. Rosewater, who compelled Mr. Hitchcock to acknowledge that he had deliberately misrepresented the matter and was, furthermore, not in a position to cry "fraud" at anyone.

When the meeting opened Mr. Rosewater brought up the subject of hotel accommodations, calling the attention of the directors to the necessity for increased accommodations in view of the large numbers of people who will visit the city and who will demand first-class accommodations. He said it will be necessary to provide such accommodations for fully 1,500 or 2,000 people and he advocated the erection of a temporary building of that capacity in a central location. He said he had conferred with the owners of the vacant block bounded by Dodge, Douglas, Eighteenth and Nineteenth streets, and they had agreed to allow the property to be used for a temporary hotel   building at a small rental. Following this, Mr. Rosewater said he had sent for a Chicago architect who is an expert on hotel construction and this man has inspected the ground and had drawn complete plans and specifications for a temporary building, to be covered with staff or corrugated iron and plastered on the inside, with capacity to accommodate about 2,000 guests. A large number of the rooms planned for bath rooms, and at a flat rate of $2 per day would easily pay all the expenses of the establishment and leave a profit, without counting the income from the barber shops, restaurants and various other establishments which would be accommodated in the building.

In the discussion which followed on this matter Mr. Rosewater said such a building could be erected for about $75,00 and the furnishing would cost about $20,000 more, making a total investment of about $100,000.

The matter was very favorably regarded by the directors present and a committee of five was appointed to take up the matter and report at the next meeting of the board, to be held Friday afternoon of this week, the best manner of proceeding to carry out the suggestion. The chair appointed as this committee Directors Rosewater, Dudley Smith, Kilpatrick, Wilcox and Rector.

HITCHCOCKS RESOLUTION.

When this matter was disposed of Mr. Hitchcock took the floor to offer the following resolution:

Resolved, That it is the sense of this board of directors that the executive committee shall not enter into any contract or let any concession in which any member of the committee is directly or indirectly interested.

When the resolution was stated by the president Mr. Rosewater said that when the matter which the author of the resolution was firing at was before the house at the last meeting he had made a full explanation of the whole matter, but he said there might be some present who had not heard that explanation and who would like to know whether the executive committee had made a gift to one of its members or whether the committee had violated the rules which obtain in all large corporations.

Mr. Rosewater said the transaction referred to was just as legitimate as the transaction when Mr. Hitchcock had voted to purchase from Mr. Kountze, a member of the board of directors, a tract of land for the exposition, or the transaction where the executive committee had paid Mr. Hitchcock three times as much per copy for a lot of his papers as was proposed to be paid for the copies of The Weekly Bee.

Mr. Rosewater then again went over the circumstances leading up to the action which has resulted in such extended comment at the hands of Mr. Hitchcock. He stated that the experience of other expositions had demonstrated that a very large percentage of the expected attendance would come from the territory within a radius of 250 miles from Omaha. To reach this population several methods had been pursued; the people in the cities and towns along the railroads had been reached by these roads and well supplied with the pamphlets issued by the Department of Publicity and Promotion. But the farmers living in this territory could only be reached by mail, and this brought the whole question down to a simple problem of cost.

COST OF THE PUBLICATION.

Mr. Rosewater then stated briefly the items of cost in the issuance of an edition of 200,000 copies of the thirty-two page pamphlet which has been issued by the department, including the cost of the pamphlets at $750 for each 100,000 postage at 1 cent each, $2,000; addressing, $200; envelopes and addressing, $300 or $400 more, making the total cost of this method $4,200. The committee had decided to adopt the method of sending out the exposition matter in the form of the regular edition of a newspaper in order to take advantage of the pound rate of postage and to get more printed matter concerning the exposition. It had decided to purchase 200,000 copies of The Weekly Bee, including a four-page supplement on fine paper, for $3,200 mailed, or $1,000 less than the cost of the pamphlets. Mr. Rosewater repeated the items of cost of the supplement in question, showing that a small margin of $60 or $70 would be left the publisher at the price of $3,200. He refuted the charges made by Mr. Hitchcock in his paper that the purchase of these papers was an act of highway robbery and challenged Mr. Hitchcock to explain how is happened that the exposition had been induced to buy copies of his paper, printed on poor paper, at over 6 cents a copy, when The Bee proposed to furnish a paper printed on superior paper for 1 3-5 cents. He declared that it might as well be said that no banker who is a member of the board of directors should loan the exposition money, or that no merchant who is a director should sell any material to a third party to be used in connection with the exposition.

MR. HITCHCOCK'S ARGUMENT.

Mr. Hitchcock followed Mr. Rosewater. He exclaimed with great force that the matter had not been fairly presented, charging that the situation and the conditions which had called forth the resolution were radically opposite to the conditions when the exposition purchased from Mr. Kountze the tract of land for a park and for the exposition. He charged that Mr. Rosewater had used his position as a member of the executive committee to buttonhole the other members of the committee and to threaten and cajole them into doing his bidding. He said the members of the executive committee had been wheedled and cajoled into accepting Mr. Rosewater's suggestion, after which Mr. Rosewater had left town. No sooner was his back turned, according to Mr. Hitchcock, than the committee completely receded from this position and rescinded its action. The day following Mr. Rosewater's return to the city he again wheedled and cajoled and buttonholed his colleagues on the committee, according to Mr. Hitchcock, and they obediently got into line again on the proposition.

At this recital Mr. Rosewater demanded that Mr. Hitchcock produce one man whom he had "buttonholed" regarding the matter, or one member of the committee who had been "cajoled" or influenced in any manner.

Mr. Hitchcock "took water" on this proposition and turned the discussion into another attempt on the part of Mr. Rosewater to "raid the treasury," and he charged that if it was allowed to go on no paper could be expected to give the exposition free advertising.

Mr. Rosewater endeavored to get Mr. Hitchcock to admit or deny the reasonableness of the price asked for the 200,000 copies of The Weekly Bee and supplement, but Mr. Hitchcock declared that the question of cost did not enter into the question, as it was a principle he was contending for.

CORNERS THE KICKER.

Mr. Rosewater then demanded why Mr. Hitchcock had insisted on the exposition taking a lot of copies of the World-Herald at an exorbitant price when he is a member of the Board of Directors. He said that Mr. Hitchcock was afflicted with an incurable attack of Rosewaterphobia and had endeavored to make capital out of the incident simply because Rosewater was concerned, and if any harm came to the exposition from the circumstance Hitchcock would be responsible for it. In conclusion Mr. Rosewater said that not a cent had ever been expended by him in connection with the exposition for which a voucher was not on file with the name of the person to whom it was paid, but he challenged Mr. Hitchcock to say the same for the affairs of the department which had been under his charge, asking what had been done with a certain $200 which Mr. Hitchcock to say the same for the affairs of the department which had been under his charge, asking what had been done with a certain $200 which Mr. Hitchcock had drawn and refused to tell any of the committee to whom it went.

Mr. Hitchcock turned white with ill-concealed rage and excitedly exclaimed that the president had approved the voucher, but he failed to state what had been done with the money.

Mr. Rector asked if the resolution would be retroactive if adopted. The president ruled that the resolution would not be retroactive.

A motion to refer the resolution to the executive committee was followed by a request from Chairman Lindsey that the board act on the matter, instead of referring it to the committee.

The matter was finally put to a vote, after it had been amended to provide that the words "without advertising for bids" should be added, and the resolution was adopted.

The board adjourned until 4 p. m. Friday of this week.

BARGAIN SALE ON TICKETS.

Executive Committee Devises a Plan to Help Both Sides.

The executive committee of the exposition has authorized the issuance of commutation admission tickets to the exposition and people who desire to profit by the opportunity may now secure tickets to the great fair at a rate much below the price at which tickets will be sold when the exposition opens. As a preliminary to this movement it has been decided by the committee that the exposition grounds shall be kept open from 8 o'clock a. m. to 11 o'clock p. m., tickets to be on sale from the hour of opening until 10 p. m. The price of admission to the grounds, either night or day, has been fixed at 50 cents.

The commutation tickets which have been placed on the market are in the shape of a book containing 100 single admission coupons. These tickets are nontransferrable, each buyer of a book being required to have his photograph pasted on the inside of the cover, and the coupon tickets will not be accepted if detached from their book.

These commutation tickets are now on sale and can be purchased at $20 each, making the price of admission to a holder of one of these books 20 cents. The tickets may be obtained of Secretary Wakefield at exposition headquarters until May 1.

One object of the exposition management in placing these tickets on sale at this time is to turn into the exposition treasury the money which is expected to be realized in this way. It is the expectation of the management that there will be a very active demand for these tickets on the part of people in the section of territory adjacent to Omaha, as it offers them an excellent opportunity for securing cheap admission to the exposition and enables them to lend a helping hand to the enterprise at a time when ready cash is most acceptable. Secretary Wakefield is prepared to receive all comers with $20, either in currency or in the form of a check and he anticipated a rush to take advantage of the great bargain sale.

In addition to ordering these tickets placed on sale, the executive committee authorized Manager Reed to enter into several contracts with applicants for concessions. These were U. G. Graham, who will operate the gondolas and a naphtha launch on the lagoon; Margaret B. Cook of Omaha, who will erect a log cabin on the Midway and operate therein a New England bean house; and the Nebraska Telephone company, which will establish a number of pay telephone stations on the grounds.

The committee also authorized Manager Kirkendall to contract for another power engine from the manufacturer in Hamilton, O.

Fraternal Order Headquarters.

Fraternal orders are taking a lively interest in the exposition and great preparations are being made by them to be represented in a manner which will be in keeping with their position in the business world. Many of them are going to contribute liberally to the erection of "Fraternal Building," in which they will have commodious headquarters. Nearly enough associations have now indicated a desire to have headquarters in the building on the grounds to justify its erection. Before active work commences, however, F. F. Roose, fraternal commissioner, 1614 Farnam street, Omaha, Neb. desires to hear from others so as to guarantee the erection of a building in keeping with the magnitude of the frateral​ work in the transmississippi states. He asks that all orders and lodges which have not yet done so, correspond with him at once and make known their wishes and decision in this matter.

A REBUKE ADMINISTERED.

Resolved, That it is the sense of the board of directors that the executive committee should not enter into any contract or let any concession in which a member of the committee is directly or indirectly interested without first advertising for bids.

Mr. Rosewater made a bitter fight, but the board of directors of the exposition yesterday adopted the above resolution.

Only three directors joined Mr. Rosewater in voting against it.

The effect of the resolution is two-fold:

First—It conveys a censure to the members of the committee for their weakness in allowing Mr. Rosewater to stick his fingers so deep into the exposition treasury.

Second—It will serve to render it difficult to make a similar raid in the future.

It is rather extraordinary, to say the least, that it should be necessary for the board of directors to notify the six men on its executive committee not to let contracts to themselves.

It is also extraordinary that a member of the committee should stand up before his brother directors and protest against being forbidden to put exposition money into his own pocket.

Had the executive committee responded to the World-Herald's warning, and rescinded its action, it might have saved itself being put in this embarrassing position.

A splendid exhibit at the exposition would be the superb nerve of the man who asks the country press to do for nothing a service which he demands $3,200 for rendering. The only drawback would be the great expense of building a building large enough to cover it.

ROSEWATER RAIDS HEADED OFF

Directory Puts a Stop to Little Editor's Plans for Exposition Snaps.

Mr. Hitchcock Compels Him to Keep His Hands Out of the Treasury.

For Members of Executive Committee to Vote Funds to Themselves Is Voted Improper.

Some Important Things Done in Secret Session Made Public Now for the First Time.

Very Warm Argument in Which Mr. Rosewater Is Forced to Listen to a History of His Treasury Raids.

Resolved, That it is the sense of the board of directors that the executive committee should not enter into any contract or let any concession in which a member of the committee is directly or indirectly interested, without first advertising for bids.

By the adoption of the above resolution by a practically unanimous vote, the board of directors of the exposition yesterday afternoon expressed their opinion of the action of Mr. Rosewater and his associates on the executive committee in voting $3,200 of exposition money into Mr. Rosewater's pockets.

All things considered, it was a very disagreeable afternoon for the manager of the department of publicity and promotion, and forcibly recalled that other afternoon a few months ago when the same Mr. Rosewater was forced to place his abdomen on the ground and wiggle for the satisfaction and edification of the same board of directors. For some reason or other, the board seems to be possessed of an unholy desire to make Mr. Rosewater do things that he does not want to do, and to restrain him from doing the things which he has set his heart on doing. What Mr. Rosewater said about it after the proceeding was over cannot be stated, because Mr. Rosewater was too mad to talk, and what he thought about it cannot be reproduced because it was not fit to print. Some things must be left to the imagination.

The matter came up at the adjourned meeting of the board, which had been arranged for by Mr. Rosewater for the purpose of building a hotel and negotiating an exposition loan. The hotel was not built and the loan has not been negotiated, but neither of these facts is responsible for the load of grief that accompanied Mr. Rosewater to bed last night. It was due to the fact that the strongly expressed sentiment of one of the most thoroughly representative business bodies in the city threatened to pry him loose from the exposition treasury.

The hotel scheme was disposed of by the appointment of a committee consisting of Messrs. Rosewater, Dudley Smith, Kilpatrick, Wilcox and Rector. These gentlemen will look into the proposition to build a hotel four stories high, covering the entire block, bounded by Eighteenth, Nineteenth, Douglas and Dodge streets. It was stated that Mr. Frank Murphy has secured the consent of Messrs. Hanscom and Denise to the use of the land for the purpose, and that plans had been drawn on which bids could be secured. The estimated cost was announced as $75,000, and $20,000 more would furnish the building.

ROSEWATER MONEY GRAB.

Under the head of miscellaneous business, Mr. Hitchcock brought up the Rosewater money grab. He spoke of the provision of the by-laws which prohibited any director drawing a salary or receiving any compensation, and offered the above resolution, moving its adoption. It was promptly seconded, and the president announced it open for discussion.

Mr. Kilpatrick called for information as to its purport. Mr. Rosewater found the shoe such a perfect fit that he immediately put it on, laced it up and walked off with it. He said: "The matter that Mr. Hitchcock is trying to bring in here is a special grievance of his own. If it had been brought in here in good faith and was of a general character I suppose there would have been no objection to its consideration."

Mr. Rosewater then paused to give someone a chance to raise a point of order by which the obnoxious resolution could be disposed of without further discussion, but he waited in vain, and was forced to go ahead. He insisted that there was nothing out of the way in paying money to a director, and said that it had been done in the case where Mr. Kountze was interested in the selection of the site for the exposition, and that a number of World-Heralds had been bought by the exposition management. He was especially emphatic in declaring that the World-Herald had been paid 6 cents each for papers that were "very much inferior" to the one he proposed to get out.

He then defended his action in trying to get hold of $3,200 exposition money by saying that the price he charged was not exorbitant he contended that it would cost $4,200 to get out the same matter in pamphlet form, and that the executive committee had "wisely decided to save $1,000 by buying 200,000 copies of the Weekly Bee." He denied that he had hypnotised the executive committee, and expressed the belief that no director could favor the resolution "under the circumstances."

DIFFERENT PROPOSITIONS.

Mr. Hitchcock replied that the proposition had not been fairly stated. He said the conditions existing were radically different from those under which arrangements were made with Mr. Kountze for the exposition site. Mr. Kountze was not a member of the executive committee and he had not stood knocking at the door of the executive committee and he had not stood knocking at the door of the executive committee or buttonholing its members to get them to buy five or ten, or twenty, acres of his land at his own figures and on his own terms. On the other hand, the board had gone to him to ask for a proposition, and it was the same with the World-Herald.

"When I issued the special exposition number of the World-Herald," said My. Hitchcock, "I did not ask the exposition to buy a copy or spend a dollar in connection with it. Several days after it was issued the secretary, Mr. Wakefield, came to me and asked for a price on a number of them. I made a price 40 per cent lower than the one at which we were selling to others. I lost several hundred dollars on that edition, but I was glad to do it for the benefit of the exposition and for the state and city.

"Now, how is it in this case? This man has been buttonholing and cajoling and wheedling his associates on the executive committee until he got their permission to enter into a contract with himself to divert $3,200 of these exposition trust funds to his own use."

Mr. Rosewater had shown symptoms that his chair was getting hot, and he jumped up and demanded that Mr. Hitchcock name the member whom he had buttonholed. He was ready to plead guilty to wheedling and cajoling, but he balked at the buttonholing.

"You went into that secret meeting," continued Mr. Hitchcock, "and there urged the matter by every means within your power, and secured the assent of the committee. Then you left the city, and what did the committee do? The very next day it rescinded its action. Then you returned, and again you besought it with your importunities, and again you secured its consent to take this money from the exposition.

A LITTLE SECRET HISTORY.

"A number of times since this enterprise was put under way I have had matters suppressed in the World-Herald in the interest of the exposition. There have been a number of things in connection with the happenings before the executive committee that are probably unknown to a majority of the members of the directory. More than a year ago, while I was still a member of the executive committee, a representative of the Bee appeared before the committee and endeavored to have the exposition take 50,000 copies of an exposition number of the Bee that it was proposed to issue at 5 cents a copy, making $2,500."

Again Mr. Rosewater was unable to restrain his uneasiness, and he hopped to the front and declared that he had not tried to sell the exposition 50,000 copies at 5 cents apiece.

Mr. Hitchcock was emphatically positive, and reiterated the statement asserting his certainty that the price demanded was $2,500. Mr. Rosewater looked around the room, but he received no help even from the members of the executive committee, who remembered the interesting occasion fifteen months ago, when Rosewater complained in the meeting of the committee that Mr. Hitchcock was always "picking on him," when Mr. Hitchcock replied, "I am not, and have not been picking on you; I am simply trying to make you let the exposition money alone, and I serve notice on you here and now that whenever I catch you trying to get your fingers into the exposition treasury I shall rap your knuckles."

RAID HEADED OFF.

Mr. Rosewater settled down on his hard-bottomed chair and Mr. Hitchcock continued: "When you tried to get that deal through I stated to the committee that it was an indecency for the committee to vote money into the pockets of its members—money which was placed in the hands of the committee as trust funds, contributed by people of the city who could ill afford to part with it. A member of the committee stated then that a contract could also be made with the World-Herald, and I retorted that I would not permit it. I said that such a thing would be gross indecency, and I would not tolerate it. That raid was headed off.

"After that you again brought up the matter of selling the Bee to the exposition, and demanded that the committee subscribe for 400 copies a day for a year, paying for each at the rate of $4 per year, or $1,600."

Once more Mr. Rosewater rose to the surface with a denial. He said he had not demanded the purchase of 400 copies at $4 per year, and called on Secretary Wakefield for corroboration. The secretary thought a minute and slowly said: "I do not remember exactly about the number, whether it was 400 or not, and I don't know as I could say it was a demand," emphasizing the word "demand."

Mr. Rosewater again subsided, and Mr. Hitchcock resumed: "It was urged by you on the representation that 400 western papers wanted to get the Bee in exchange and you wanted the exposition to foot the bill. Now my contention is this: Leaving entirely out of the question the matter of whether this price charged is reasonable or not, the exposition cannot afford to take such a step. It cannot afford to have it go out to the papers all over this section that they are asked to devote space to the executive committee is paid several thousand dollars for what he prints in his paper about the exposition. If such a step is persisted in it will result in closing the columns of nine-tenths of them against the exposition. It will inflict a damage to the exposition that could not be measured by $100,000. The way this exposition must be advertised in the main is by free advertising, and the only was to secure free advertising is to place all papers on an equal basis and see to it that they are kept there. If it goes out that the exposition has money to pay one paper and not others, then there will be no more free advertising done."

Mr. Rosewater stepped off the skillet with alacrity and declared that Hitchcock was afflicted with Rosewaterphobia, and that it was an incurable disease. He said Hitchcock had already done everything he could to injure the exposition, and had stigmatized the management as scoundrels. He insisted that he himself had shown all the way through that he had no desire to make a dollar off the exposition, and then, in an injured tone of voice, he said that no one had tried to stigmatize Hitchcock when he was a member of the executive committee. He wound up with an insinuation that Hitchcock had not accounted for the money that was paid out for the work of his department.

"What money do you mean?" demanded Mr. Hitchcock.

"Oh, there was $200 expenses at Lincoln that I could never find out about," remarked Mr. Rosewater.

"It all received the O. K. of the president and he had full information regarding it," was the answer.

ACTION BY THE DIRECTORS.

Mr. Weller moved to refer the resolution to the executive committee, but Mr. Lindsey and Mr. Babcock, who are members of the committee, wanted to unload the responsibility on the full board. They wanted information as to what the big board thought, and they got it.

Mr. Rosewater made a closing plea against the adoption of the resolution, stating that it would hamper the work of the committee. By way of illustrating how it would interfere, he said: "Suppose for instance that we wanted to make a contract with a special journal or magazine, say Frank Leslie's. If we advertised for bids and somebody else bid lower how could we get anything in Leslie's?"

Mr. Payne very promptly informed him. "Frank Leslie is not a member of the executive committee, Mr. Rosewater," he said, "and this resolution is simply designed to prevent members of the executive committee voting the exposition's money into their own pockets."

Mr. Rosewater explained the disadvantages of the resolution no further.

The original resolution did not have the closing words, "without advertising for bids," and these were added by Mr. Smith, with the consent of Mr. Hitchcock. In that shape the resolution was adopted by a viva voce vote, Mr. Rosewater and three sympathizers voting in the negative.

The directors were so well satisfied with what they had done that they concluded to call it a day's work, and adjourned forthwith to meet again next Friday afternoon at 4 o'clock.

TAFT AND GARLAND COMING

REPRESENT ART AND LITERATURE

Mrs. Ford Reports Great Success as the Result of Her Trip to Chicago to Confer on Congresses.

Arrangement for the Art congress and the Literature congress have reached an advanced stage as a direct result of the visit to Chicago of Mrs. Frances M. Ford, secretary of the Woman's Board of Managers of the exposition. Mrs. Ford's errand to Chicago was to consult with Lorado Taft, chairman of the Art congress, and Hamlin Garland, chairman of the Literature congress.

The Art congress will be held during the last week in September. Monday will be devoted to architecture, interior decoration will be considered on Tuesday, ceramics on Wednesday, while painting and sculpting will occupy the remaining three days of the week. On the program will appear the names of Francis Brown and Mr. Clarkson, well known in the art world, and Mr. Taft will give his well known "clay talk," illustrating his remarks by modelling a bust in clay.

The week following the Art congress will be devoted to the Literature congress. Mr. Garland is about to start for the Klondike, but says he will return in time to take charge of the congress. The program outlined by him is designed to show the evolution, the present status and future of American literature, with especial attention to the western literary movement. Mr. Garland announces that he hopes to have on the program James Whitcomb Riley, Opie Reed, George W. Markham, Charles F. Lummis, Dr. Richard Burton, Henry D. Fuller, Harriet Monroe and many other celebrities in the literary world.

While in Chicago Mrs. Ford attended a meeting of a very exclusive club or literati and people "who have done something." The congress was later broached by Mr. Garland, who outlined what is proposed to be done, and Mrs. Ford was subjected to a running fire of questions. She says that she was greatly surprised and gratified to witness the enthusiasm and interest displayed in the matter by the entire company. She modestly attributes this to the masterly manner in which Mr. Garland laid the matter before his associates. All present expressed the most hearty approval of the idea and predicted a large measure of success of both congresses, promising to lend the matter their substantial support and to attend the meetings.

Mrs. Ford says she has every reason to feel greatly encouraged by the success of her conference with all of these people, and she feels confident that these two congresses will be more than successful.

In addition to these congresses, Mrs. Ford has been advised of another meeting which will be worthy of the name of a congress. Mrs. Longstreth of Philadelphia, a woman with a national reputation in connection with women's clubs, has notified Mrs. Ford that a party of twenty delegates to the biennial meeting of the National Federation of Woman's Clubs to be held in Denver in June, will stop in Omaha en route to Denver, and will spend Saturday and Sunday, June 18 and 19, in this city. A meeting will be held Saturday afternoon at which three women of this delegation wil​ furnish the program. These will be Mrs. Longstreth, Mrs. Cornelius Stevenson and Mrs. Mary E. Mumford.   All are well known in connection with the work of woman's clubs and Mrs. Ford says they will undoubtedly attract a large number of people. The place of holding this meeting has not been determined.

TYPICAL OF THE GONE FRONTIER.

Groups to Represent a Life that is Now No More.

Small sketches in clay have been designed for statuary designed to be placed in the main court. These statues represent groups of a distinctively western type and they are intended to be placed on the large pedestals afforded by the inclined plane and grand staircase on the south side of the lagoon west of the Mines building and on the north side for the lagoon west of the Machinery building.

The groups are designed to represent the red man and the white man as both were known to the rolling prairies of the west twenty-five years ago. The first group represents a typical Indian chief standing erect at the head of his "cayuse." The Indian is dressed in buckskin and feathered headdress extending to his heels, and holds in front of him a rifle. The pony is standing with nose extended and across his back is thrown a dead elk. The second group represents a typical western cowboy. He, too, is dismounted and standing at the head of his broncho. He is dressed in the regulation cowboy garb with huge spurs, buckskin breeches, revolvers, etc. On the back of his broncho is a huge cowboy saddle with a rifle in the sling and the usual accoutrements of a cowboy strapped to the saddle.

These groops​ were modeled by R. W. Bock, a Chicago sculptor, who is now in Omaha making the statuary for some of the main exposition buildings. They will be submitted to the exposition management for approval, and, if adopted, will be mounted in position when the exposition opens.

HOTEL COMMITTEE WILL REPORT.

Plan Suggested by Manager Rosewater Receives Endorsement.

The Board of Directors of the exposition will hold an adjourned meeting at 4 o'clock tomorro wafternoon​ for the purpose of receiving th ereport​ of the special committee appointed to consider the suggestion that the board take up the matter of securing additional first-class hotel facilities for the crowd, which will throng Omaha during the exposition.

The special committee has had several meetings and it is the unanimous opinion of the members that it is absolutely necessary to provide additional hotel accommodations, and the plan outlined by Manager Rosewater at the meeting of the board Tuesday of this week will be recommended to the board as a practical and desirable way out of the difficulty. The plan provides for the erection of a temporary hotel building occupying teh​ entire block bounded by Eighteenth, Nineteenth, Dodge and Douglas streets, with accommodations for from 1,500 to 2,000 guests. The estimated cost of this hotel, including the furnishing, is about $100,000 and the special committee has decided, after full consideration and conference with persons familiar with the hotel business that the plan is not only feasible and practical, but is a good investment.

A report to this effect will be made to the board and the committee will urge that the Board of Directors take such action as may seem advisable, either as a board or individualylly​, to assist in carrying out the plan and providing the accommodations contemplataed​.

University Cadets Coming.

Lieutenant John M. Stotsenburg, military instructor at the University of Nebraska, has submitted a proposition to President Wattles for the encampment at Omaha of the University cadet battalion during eight days, beginning June 1. According to this proposition the cadets will camp on the old Fort Omaha reservation, shelter, water, wood, straw, etc., to be furnished by the exposition, to gether​ with admission to the grounds for the members of the battalion. On their part the cadets propose to participate in the parade on the opening day and to give the following exercises on the exposition grounds every day except Sundays: Guard mount, one drill either in the morning or evening and a dress parade each evening. The matter will be considered by President Wattles and laid before the executive committee.

Plans for Public Convenience.

Bids for furnishing and installing the plumbing in the main buildings of the exposition will be opened by the Department of Buildings and Grounds tomorrow.

Ample space in each of the main buildings has been set apart for the installation of toliet​ conveniences for visitors to the exposition. Commodious quarters for both men and women will be provided in each buildings, and these will be supplied with the latest and most improved appliances.

No conclusion has yet been reached regarding the matter of making a nominal charge for the use of the toilet rooms. Manager Kirkendall has this matter under consideration, and says he is inclined to recommend that no charge by made, but the matter has not been laid before the executive committee in a formal way.

ROOM IN NEBRASKA BUILDING

SECRET SOCIETIES GET ACCOMMODATIONS

Location of the Several Headquarters Decided Upon and the Proposed Fishery Exhibit Abandoned for Want of Funds.

The Nebraska Exposition commission compressed about the entire business of its semi-monthly meeting into one session yesterday afternoon and a considerable grist of small matters was ground out.

The request of the six bodies of state societies of Free Masons and their auxiliary societies for a room for their joint use was granted, and the room in the southwest corner of the second floor of the Nebraska building was assigned to those organizations to be decorated and furnished by them.

The large room at the north end of the first floor of the building was assigned to the veteran soldiers and sailors of the state and their auxiliary societies.

The Woman's Suffrage association, the P. E. O. society, the Women's Christian Temperance union and the Women's Home Missionary society were assigned the joint use of room No. 17 at the southeast corner of the second floor.

The eleven fraternal societies which had applied for desk room in the Nebraska building were assigned space in the corners and alcoves on both the first and second floors, leaving about nine vacant space which have not been applied for.

Messrs. Whitford and Poynter were appointed a committee to confer with Manager Babcock of the Transportation department regarding terminal charges on exhibits installed under the direction of the commission.

Commissioners Neville and Boydston were appointed a committee to pass upon the final estimate of the staff contractor, a question having arisen as to whether certain work provided for in the contract had been performed.

The Western Electrical company of Omaha was awarded the contract for wiring the Nebraska building for electric light, including the furnishing of the fixture, the price being $330.

Fish Commissioner Lew May submitted an estimate, as instructed at the last meeting of the board, showing the probable cost of making a fish exhibit in connection with the exhibit to be made in the Government building by the United States Fish commission. Mr. May stated that the government commission had offered to allow the Nebraska commission to occupy several of the tanks in the acquarium​ and he based an estimate on this fact, saying that $2,500 would be required to make a creditable exhibit of Nebraska fish.

Considerable discussion followed the presentation of this report, the members of the board agreeing that the condition of the funds at their disposal would not allow an expenditure of this amount. Mr. May said, in reply to questions, that he could not promise a creditable exhibit with $1,250, and the board concluded this would be the maximum amount that could be devoted to that purpose. It was finally decided to refuse to make any appropriation for a fish exhibit.

After passing upon a number of bills the board adjourned until April 26.

WIGWAM PLANS UNDER REVISION.

Building Committee Goes Over the Matter Carefully.

The building committee of the Pottawattamie wigwam spent a portion of the day yesterday revising the specifications of the building and getting them in a shape where the contractors can make their bids intelligently. It was found that the architects had prepared their specifications by using the regulation form for permanent work, and had called for a character of finishing not in cognizance with the kind of a building proposed to be erected, adding greatly and unnecessarily to the expense. For instance all nail holes were required to be puttied and all knots shellacked; floors finished in hard oil; plate glass windows; quarter-sawed yellow pine finishing, and a lot of other stuff not contemplated in the original plans. All of this was cut out. Nearly $300 was saved in the estimated cost of the grand stairway by the same kind of pruning. The plans and the accompanying specifications were gotten into excellent shape and fully ready for examination by the bidders.

There will be no change in the original plans. The building will be ninety feet high and seventy-five feet in diameter, with not less than three floors. The upper floors will be necessary for the strength of the building and the additional cost will only involve the laying of the floors. If it is finally decided to put in the elevator, these upper rooms will be among the most pleasant and frequently visited in the building. The bids of the contractors will all be ready for consideration at the meeting of the general committee on Monday night.

INSTITUTE FOR INDIAN TEACHERS.

Prof. Hailman Prefers Omaha to Colorado Springs for Meeting.

Prof. W. N. Hailman, United States superintendent of Indian instruction was in the city yesterday looking for a location for the institute in this line that will occur next summer. He is authorized to choose between Omaha and Colorado Springs for the meeting, and on account of the exposition he is inclined to Omaha before going any further. He cannot commit himself on account of his official relations to the government, but he does say that on this particular occasion he is willing to recommend Omaha in preference to Colorado Springs.

"This meeting will be for three weeks

WOMAN'S BOARD MANAGERS

MEMBERS REPORT ON THEIR SUCCESS

Encouraging Announcements Made at the Regular Quarterly Meeting—Funds Raised by the Different Women.

The regular quarterly meeting of the Woman's Board of Managers of the Bureau of Education was held this morning in the directors' room at exposition headquarters. Twenty members of the board were present.

The doings of the executive committee since the last meeting of the board were reported by Chairman Harford and Secretary Ford, who related briefly what had been done and several of the matters in prospect, all of which has been made public from time to time in the newspapers.

Reports were called for from the individual members of the board, and some of these were of particular interest. The report of Mrs. Reed on the work accomplished in Council Bluffs was the most encouraging of all, from a financial standpoint, and drew forth a wave of subdued applause by way of approbation. Mrs. Reed said the contribution to the Girls' and Boys' building from the women's edition of the Nonpareil amounted to $142.75, with several good accounts still uncollected, which will increase the amount several dollars. In addition to this substantial assistance, Mrs. Reed reported that the pupils of the Council Bluffs High school had contributed $22 by subscriptions, and had given an entertainment which had netted $64.50, making a total contribution from the school of $84.50.

Mrs. Towie of South Omaha reported that she had collected $90 by visiting the schools and selling copies of the Hatchet.

Mrs. Field of Lincoln said 1,000 copies of the hatchet had been sold in that city.

Mrs. Johnson of Crete reported a marked increase in interest among the people of her district, with small returns up to date, in the way of substantial assistance.

Miss Fyffe of Hastings said the president of the Board of Education, the superintendent of schools and the principal of the High school had thrown cold water on her efforts to interest the schools in the matter of contributing to the fund for the Girls' and Boys' building, and little had been secured from that source.

Mrs. Kimball reported that she was about to send 100 copies of the Hatchet to London to be placed in a bazaar there for sale by the Dovey children, two Nebraska girls whose portraits appear in the paper with a short article regarding them.

A vote of thanks was voted by the board to Mesdames Marple, Tilden, Draper Smith and Hunter for their efforts in connection with the publishing of the Hatchet.

The balance of the time of the session was devoted to an informal discussion, during which the members of the board plied the executive committee with questions regarding various matters of detail with reference to the displaying of exhibits.

Before adjourning it was announced that the time in which entries may be made in the individual competition instituted by the board would be extended to May 1. It was stated that the pressure brought upon the schools to turn out the work for the state exhibit at once had been so great that the children had had no time in which to prepare work for the individual competition.

WOMEN WILL HELP ENTERTAIN.

Executive Committee of the New Bureau Organizes.

The women constituting the newly appointed executive committee of the Bureau of Entertainment met in the directors' room at exposition headquarters and organized for the business before them. Those present were Mesdames G. W. Wattles, F. P. Kirkendall, G. M. Hitchcock, C. W. Lyman, J. L. Webster, Clement Chase, W. A. Redick, H. T. Clarke, J. E. Summers, jr., and George A. Joslyn. The committee organized by electing Mrs. Chase chairman and Mrs. Redick secretary.

This executive committee is charged with the duty of appointing forty other women, the entire number of fifty to constitute the   Bureau of Entertainment, which is designed to conduct the social features in connection with the proper entertainment of distinguished visitors to the exposition, providing receptions, dinners, etc.

The committee will hold another meeting in the directors' room Saturday at 3 p. m., at which time the remaining forty members of the committee will be appointed.

The executive committee, accompanied by President Wattles, visited the exposition grounds this morning for the purpose of selecting a desirable location for a suite of hooms​ to be fitted u pas​ a place for extending to distinguished visitors to the exposition such courtesies as may be desirable on the exposition grounds.

After visiting numerous places on the grounds which were suggested, the committee decided that the most desirable place seemed to be the northeast corner of the gallery of the Mines building. This gallery is thirty-three feet in width and the portion favored by the committee includes the pavillion at the northeast corner of the building, extending from that point westward about 100 feet. The corner pavillion is in such form that it will lend itself readily to a pretty scheme for decoration, and the portion extending along the north side of the building has long windows opening on the broad balcony, from which is afforded a full view of the beautiful grand court.

The plans of the women, as developed in embryo on the spot, contemplate the embellishment of this broad gallery with interior decorations of elegant simplicity, furnishing it with such articles as would be required for the informal social functions to which it would be devoted.

The matter of setting aside this space for the use of the Bureau of Entertainment will be taken in hand by President Wattles on behalf of the bureau.

Indiana's Commission.

Governor Mount of Indiana has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he has appointed an exposition commission to see that the interests of Indiana are properly represented at the exposition. There are no funds available for participation by the state, but the governor writes that he will do all in his power to have steps taken to bring about the desired result. The following is the list of commissioners: Frank B. Von Behren, Evansville; Mason J. Niblack, Vincennes; W. W. Stevens, Salem; Warder H. Hamilton, Greensburg; Claude Matthews, Clinton; Mrs. Virginia C. Meredith, Cambridge City; D. M. Parry, Indianapolis; Horace E. Kinney, Indianapolis; W. H. Sanders, Marion; Eli Marvin, Frankfort; Mortimer Levering, Lafayette; Fred Heath, Muncie; Charles McCulloch, Fort Wayne; Clem Studebaker, South Bend; William Fortune, Indianapolis.

Money in One Mail.

A good illustration of the manner in which money is being received by the Department of Exhibits in payment for space in the exposition buildings was afforded by the morning mail received by that department today. This mail contained checks, drafts, etc., aggregating $2,413.20. When it is considered that there are five or six deliveries of mail every day and that the inflow of checks, etc., is almost continuous, an idea may be formed of the income from this source.

Armour Institute Exhibit.

Prof. A. M. Feldman of the Armour Institute of Technology of Chicago is in the city making arrangements for the installation of the extensive exhibit to be made by the institute in the Machinery and Electricity building. He visited the exposition grounds to inspect the space in which the exhibit will be installed, and, before leaving town, he will let contracts for the erection of a booth and such shelving, etc., as will be required.

Prof. Feldman says the exhibit of the Armour institute will illustrate, progressively, the work done by the students in mechanical and electrical engineering and architecture. Working models of machinery designed by the students will be shown, and the work in all the departments of the institute will be fully illustrated in various ways.

RETAIL LIQUOR DEALERS' CALL.

Local Committee Enthusiastic Over the Outlook for a Convention.

Local retail liquor dealers are waxing enthusiastic over the proposed national congress of liquor dealers they are preparing to inaugurate in August. The most conservative of them figure that their convention will easily attract several thousand of their business associates from all over the country. The call, which is being generally circulated over the name of William Mittelstodt, president, and Morris Karpeles, secretary of the local organization, reads:

To the Retail Liquor Dealers of the United States, Greeting: There will be held in the city of Omaha, Douglas county, state of Nebraska, August 22 to 27 inclusive, a national congress of retail liquor dealers of the United States, for the purpose of discussing questions of personal and general interest to the retail liquor traffic. The Municipal Retail Liquor league of the city of Omaha, acting in conjunction with the management of the exposition and Commercial club, has arranged in conjunction a program for the entertainment of all retail liquor dealers attending this congress. The great Transmississippi and International Exposition will be at its height during the period named, and the railroad rates will be so reduced as to enable all liquor dealers to attend at nominal cost. No retail liquor dealer should fail to attend, as this meeting is of vital interest to all. For further particulars, address any member of the correspondence committee, viz.: Charles Krug, 2601 South Thirteenth street; Morris Karpeles, 112 South Fourteenth street; August Stephans, 1306 Douglas street; Joe McCaffrey, 111 South Fifteenth street; C. E. Fields, 119 South Fourteenth street.

Government Exhibits Arriving.

Four cars of material for the exhibit in the Government building have been received and these are on the tracks near the building. The material is mostly cases, shelving, etc., for the exhibit of the Agricultural department. Captain Ward, who has charge of all shipments for the Government building, has the bills of lading for about twenty cars of material to be installed in this building. These are now en route and are expected to arrive within a few days. Captain Ward says there will be about 300 cars of exhibits for the Government building and the entire lot will be shipped before May 1.

British Americans' Meeting.

Owing to a misunderstanding there was not a good attendance at the meeting last night called for the purpose of forming a club of British-Americans of the city, similar to the state organizations that are being started. As a consequence an adjournment was taken until next Thursday evening after an informal discussion will be held at the exposition headquarters.

Notes of the Exposition.

An application for 1,000 feet of space in the Horrticulture​ building has been received from Illinois.

The Department of Transportation has received an invoice of a shipment of coal from Montana. This shipment consists of three monster pieces of coal, the weight of the three pieces being 30,000 pounds.

Colonel Bishop of Nebraska City, commanding the second regiment of infantry of the Nebraska National guard, is in the city conferring with the executive department of the exposition regarding the encampment at Omaha of his regiment some time during the summer.

George H. Webster is negotiating with the Department of Concessions for the privilege of installing a Hawaiian village on the Midway. Mr. Webster proposes to install a complete village, with at least twenty-five natives of the "Pearl of the Pacific," and has produced evidence of substantial backing.

A meeting of the Woman's Board of Managers of the Bureau of Education will be held at 10 a. m., tomorrow. The members of the board will report what they have done in furthering the work of the board since the last meeting, and the executive committee will submit a report of its doings since that meeting.

The members of the Board of County Commissioners propose to work in harmony with the Department of Publicity and Promotion of the Transmississippi Exposition in the matter of advertising the great show. It is now proposed by the county commissioners to spend several hundred dollars in buying postage stamps, providing the exposition will furnish the advertising matter to be sent out.

SHIPMENTS TO EXPOSITION

TERMINAL CHARGES MUST BE PREPAID

Nebraska Lines Will Haul Goods Free, but Cannot Pay the Impost for Handling Them at Omaha.

A number of inquiries have been made regarding the payment of terminal charges on exhibits for the exposition by various citizens of the state. Unless other arrangements be made the exposition terminal charges and the transfer charges for less than carload shipments must be paid by the shipper. The exposition terminal charge is 6 cents per 100 pounds, and is to be prepaid at point of shipment. There will also be a transfer charge on less than carload consignments of 6 cents per 100 pounds, with a minimum charge of $1 for any single shipment from one consignor to one consignee. This transfer charge on less than carload consignments is for hauling goods between the local freight depots in Omaha and the exposition warehouse, and will apply in both directions. For further information exhibitors and other shippers should see the rules and regulations issued by the Department of Transportation of the exposition under the date of April 1.

CALIFORNIA GETS READY

WILL MAKE A GREAT MINING DISPLAY

Dr. Day Appoints M. H. DeYoung Honorary Commissioner and Two for the State—Governor Budd Takes a Part.

An Associated Press telegram from San Francisco contains the information that Dr. David T. Day, the mining commissioner of the exposition, who is in San Francisco in the interest of the mining exhibit, announces that everything is favorable for an extensive mining exhibit by California. Dr. Day is quoted as saying: "From present indications I think I am safe in saying that California will have the best mining exhibit at Omaha that it has ever had at any exposition. I have asked M. H. DeYoung to accept the office of honorary commissioner of mines and mining for the United States at the Transmississippi and International Exposition, and he has accepted. Charles G. Yale and Tirey L. Ford have been appointed as mining commissioners from this state and I feel sure that these gentlemen will see that a creditable mining exhibit will be sent from California."

It is also announced from San Francisco that Governor Budd will, on Monday of the coming week, appoint a California Exposition commission to represent the state at the exposition.

This news was most gratifying to the exposition management, as the indications form California have been that the northern part of the state was disposed to do little in the way of making a display of resources. The southern part of the state has been making energetic preparations for an extensive exhibit, but all efforts to induce the northern part to take action have heretofore been unsuccessful. Special Commissioner R. W. Richardson was sent to the coast about two weeks ago and has been arousing the people to the importance of having the state represented in a creditable manner. The success that has attended his efforts is indicated by the dispatch referred to.

NEW MEXICO MINERALS AND RELICS

Commissioner Leeson Tells of the Display He is Preparing.

Commissioner J. J. Leeson, representative of the New Mexico Exposition commission, is in the city to make final arrangements for the installation of the New Mexico exhibit. He reports a great increase in the interest of the people of his section in the exposition and says he must have more space in which to display the resources of the territory. Mr. Leeson says the people of New Mexico are going to visit the exposition in large numbers, and their exhibit will be on a scale which will not give them any cause to be ashamed of it.

All in the details of the exhibit have been placed in Mr. Leeson's hands by his colleagues on the commission, and he now has thirty tons of minerals collected and ready for shipment. Three cars have already been loaded and will be shipped within a few days. The mineral exhibit will be most elaborate and will consist of gold, silver, copper, lead and several varieties of building stone. Mr. Leeson is a most enthusiastic mineralogist and has a very large private collection, which will form a part of the state exhibit, and in addition to this he says he has a magnificent collection of all the varieties of minerals found in the territory.

The prehistoric exhibit from New Mexico will include specimens found among ancient ruins, together with a most interesting collection of relics of the ancient Aztecs.

In fruit, Mr. Leeson says the New Mexico display will include apples, grapes, peaches, plums and several other varieties of small fruits, while the agricultural display will include a fine collection of grains and grasses and a splendid display of sugar beets.

The territory will also have an educational display, and Mr. Leeson predicts that this portion of the New Mexico exhibit will not be the least interesting feature of the showing made.

Before returning to his home, Mr. Leeson will let contracts for the cases, shelving, booths, etc., required to make a fine showing for his territory.

TROUBLE WITH A CONCESSIONAIRE.

Promoter of the Moorish Village and Manager Reed Get Together.

There has been some little friction during the last two weeks between the Concessions department and the concessionaire of the Moorish village, which culminated in the exposition taking possession of the buildings erected by the Moorish Village company.

Manager Reed states that this action was taken because Mr. Felder, representative of the Moorish Village company, failed to file the bond called for by his contract, although he had been notified several times that a failure to do so would result in his contract being declared forfeited. Mr. Reed said the filing of this bond was waived temporarily at the time the contract was made, as was done with several of the first contracts for   concessions, but he said Mr. Felder had been given ample notice that a bond must be filed. When no bond was filed, after repeated notice, Mr. Reed said he had directed General Superintendent Foster to take possession of the buildings of the Moorish village and the contract was declared forfeited. Before it is reinstated Mr. Reed will insist upon a clear understanding with reference to several points which have been the cause of difference between the department and the concessionaire regarding the scope of the concession. Mr. Felder has claimed that his contract gives him the exclusive right for several specialties, chief among them being optical illusions. The department takes issue on this point and this matter will be cleared up when a conclusion is reached.

Mr. Felder declined to enter into any extended discussion of the situation. He says he intends to stand on his contract, and will insist on his right. He says the giving of a bond was waived when his contract was executed, his understanding being that no bond was to be required. He also asserts that the Concessions department has violated his contract by infringing on certain rights granted to him.

PUSHING THE MAIZE PROPAGANDA.

R. M. Allen Calls a Meeting to Organize the State.

R. M. Allen, Nebraska representative on the executive committee of the American Maize propaganda, has issued a call for a meeting to be held at the Paxton hotel, Omaha, Tuesday morning at 8 o'clock to form a state organization to work in connection with the national organization. Invitations have been issued to men who have been interested in the project throughout the state to serve upon the state committee, but others also interested in the Maize propaganda will be welcome to the meeting. Mr. Allen is chairman of the committee on the Omaha exposition, where an effort will be made to provide an exhibit showing the practical uses to which corn may be put and inviting attention to the field for investment in the manufacture of the various corn products. Colonel Clark E. Carr of Galesburg, Ill., who is president of the national propaganda and also of the Illinois exposition commission, writes that he hopes to be present at the meeting and co-operate in making the state organization a success.

Interest at Seattle.

D. B. Ward, state immigration agent for Washington, writes to the Department of Exhibits from Seattle that the Chamber of Commerce of that city is taking active interest in the matter of making a fine state exhibit at the exposition and will interest other portions of the state. Mr. Ward says the state will undoubtedly erect a state building on the grounds, and he makes inquiry regarding space for the building. The department has offered the state of Washington 1,000 square feet of space, and Mr. Ward says this will be occupied by an exhibit showing the minerals, agricultural and horticultural products, the fish and lumber industry, etc.

Kansas City Will Go it Alone.

News from Missouri is to the effect that Kansas City has virtually withdrawn from the effort to raise funds for a state display at the exposition, and it is said the city by the Kaw intends to "go it alone" in the matter of making an exhibit. It is reported that Kansas City will erect a separate building and make its own exhibit. The subscriptions raised in Kansas City are said to aggregate $3,000, but none of this money has been turned over to the Missouri commission.

No intimation of such intention on the part of Kansas City has been received at exposition headquarters.

Pennsylvania Day.

A telegram to the Department of Publicity and Promotion from Special Commissioner Bickford conveys the information that the governor of Pennsylvania has announced that he will appoint an exposition commission during the coming week to represent the state at the exposition, and also that the governor and his staff will visit the exposition and take part in the ceremonies incident to the celebration of "Pennsylvania day."

China's Official Representative.

Wu Ting Fang, the Chinese minister of the United States, has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that he has detailed Chan Fan Moore, an officer of the Chinese legation, as the official representative of the Chinese government at the exposition, and that Mr. Moore will start for Omaha as soon as practicable to take up his residence here during the exposition.

Coming of the Chinamen.

The collector of customs at San Francisco has been notified by the Treasury department that 220 Chinese actors, artists, jugglers and exhibitors will arrive at that port on the Gaelic, which is due April 29. These Chinamen are en route to the exposition and will be allowed to pass without delay, they having agreed to return to China after the exposition closes.

Directors Meeting.

The board of directors of the exposition held an adjourned meeting in executive session yesterday afternoon and repealed the resolution passed April 8, which authorized the executive committee to borrow $150,000 if deemed necessary. Action was also taken by the board looking to furnishing adequate hotel facilities for all persons who may visit the city during the exposition.

PUSHING THE BONUS FUND PLAN.

Commercial Club Working Up the Scheme Among Merchants.

The Commercial club has started to push its scheme to raise a fund for the purpose of inducing desirable manufacturing establishments to locate in this city. The fund is to be made up of dividends that may be distributed to subscribers to exposition stock at the conclusion of the exposition. The scheme was suggested to the executive committee of the club by Secretary Utt and a committee favorably upon it.

The fund is to be managed by a company made up of the people who will allow their exposition dividends to be used in this way. Stock for the amount each member puts in will be issued, but it will be nonassessable. The fund will be invested in desirable establishments that may be desirous of coming here, but no money will be given as a bonus.

It is entirely a matter of option for exposition subscribers to join this company, but it is believed that a majority of the merchants and business men of the city will fall in with the scheme. A subscription paper, in which the subscribers consent to allow their dividends to be used in this way, has been opened, and some dozen firms of the city have already attached their names to it.

EXPOSITION FREIGHT CHARGES.

Western Railroads Announce Their Rates for Hauling Exhibits.

CHICAGO, April 15.—Railroads in the Western Trunk Line committee have agreed on the following rates for the Transmississippi Exposition at Omaha:

Full tariff rates will be charged on all construction material. Full tariff rates will also be charged on all exhibits going to the exposition, but they will be returned free of charge if they remain unsold and are reshipped within thirty days after the close of the exposition. All exhibits returned free will be shipped at owners' risk.

Full rates will be charged on horses and mules both ways. Cattle, hogs and sheep will be carried at full rates going, and will be returned free if unsold.

These rates apply on the tracks of the Missouri Pacific railroad, which are the only ones reaching the grounds. That road will impose a $2 switching charge on exhibits and a $4 switching charge on material for construction.

In addition to these charges 6 cents per 100 pounds will be charged for handling exhibits on the ground, with a minimum charge of 50 cents. For less than carload lots the minimum charge will be $1 for any single shipment.

On all live stock there will be a terminal charge of $10 per car.

All charges must be prepaid, and all exhibits received before May 15.

TRAVELING MEN PREPARING

Convention of the T. P. A. in Omaha to Be Made Memorable.

WELCOME WAITS NATIONAL DELEGATES

Nebraska Division Maps Out a Program that Will Entertain the Visitors During Their Stay at the Exposition.

Little else was talked about at the annual convention of the Nebraska division of the Travelers' Protective association of America, which was held in this city yesterday, except the national convention which will occur in a couple of months.

The convention was held in the headquarters of the Traveling Men's Transmississippi club, at the corner of Sixteenth and Harney streets. A goodly proportion of the membership of the Travelers' Protectcive​ association in Nebraska was present.

The meeting mapped out the outline of the plan of entertainment of the national Travelers' Protective association. According to this, the delegates and friends will be expected to arrive in the city on Tuesday, May 31, or before. On the afternoon of that day the wives of the local traveling men will tender a reception to the visiting feminine friends and relatives of the attend-[?] the delegates will be taken out to the den of the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben in a body and will be initiated into the mysteries of the court of King Mondamin. On Wednesday the Travelers' Protective association will take part in the opening of the exposition and will figure in that to a considerable degree. On Thursday evening a reception will be tendered the visitors in the club rooms of the Transmississippi club and following this a grand ball will be given in Creighton hall. On Friday an adjournment sine die will occur.

GIVEN TO A COMMITTEE.

Most of the details were left to a committee consisting of R. F. Hodgin, O. C. Holmes, M. Wulpi and Dudley Smith, which has complete power to make all arrangements. The only matter of detail decided upon was that the city should be plentifully decorated with large banners of the Travelers' Protective association colors, blue and white. Some 3,000 of these will be hung up about the city. The division appropriated a nice sum of money to assist in this work and other entertainment.

The national Travelers' Protective association convention will be one of the big conventions of the year and will be the only one in session in the city at the time the exposition opens. There will by only some 200 accredited delegates in attendance, but there will be thousands of other travelingmen from all parts of the country here in addition. It is confidently expected that the total attendance attracted by the convention will be over 5,000. The advantage of the convention will lie not only in the big number of people brought here, but also in the fact that, the majority of those present being travelingmen, they will advertise the exposition all over the country.

The division elected the following officers: A. H. Buckstaff of Lincoln, president; Dudley Smith of Omaha, first vice president; Robert Binford of Lincoln, second vice president; R. F. Hodgin of Omaha, secretary and treasurer; M. Wulpi of Omaha, delegate to the national convention; E. S. Streator of Omaha, alternate. R. Binford of Lincoln, the retiring president, and R. F. Hodgin, secretary and treasurer, are also delegates to the national convention by virtue of their offices.

EDUCATIONAL CONVENTION PLANS.

Partial List of Topics and Speakers Announced.

The plans for the Transmississippi Educational convention that will be held during the exposition are about complete and a partial list of topics and speakers is announced. Other topics, together with the names of the speakers will be made public as soon as the program is complete, which will be early next month. The program, as far as completed, is as follows:

General Sessions—"The Public School System as an Instrumentality of Social Advance," President E. Benjamin, Brown university, Providence, R. I.; "Morality and the Public Schools," Superintendent F. Louis Soldan, St. Louis, Mo.; "Do Our Schools Cost Too Much?" Superintendent Aaron Gove, Denver, Colo.; "Conservation of Forests, Reafforestation, and Arbor Day," Hon. J. Sterling Morton, Nebraska City; "Conditions and Needs of the Rural Schools," Hon. W. W. Stetson, state superintendent of Schools, Maine; "Commercial Instruction in Our Schools," Seymour Eaton, director commercial department, Drexel institute, Philadelphia, Pa.; "Relative Value of Scholarship and Special Training for Teachers," Superintendent J. F. Millspaugh, Salt Lake City, Utah; "Correlation of Educational Agencies," by a prominent member of the National Federation of Woman's Clubs.

Conferences—Members of Boards of Education. Arranged by Hon. J. F. Trewin, Lansing, Ia., program in preparation.

On Rural Schools—Arranged by Hon. John R. Kirk, state superintendent of schools, Missouri. Topics: "Rural School Architecture," "Ventilation, Heating and Lighting of Rural Schools," "Seating, Furniture and Equipment of Rural Schools," "Literature, and Use of Library in Rural Schools," "Consolidation of Districts and Transportation of Pupils" and "The Teacher Supply Problem for Rural Schools." Speakers: Hon. R. C. Barrett, state superintendent, Iowa; Hon. William Stryker, state superintendent, Kansas; Superintendent E. J. Bodwell, Douglas county, Nebraska.

Colleges and Secondary Schools—Arranged by President William F. Slocum, jr., Colorado Springs, Colo., program in preparation.

Science Teachers—Arranged by Prof. Charles E. Bessey, University of Nebraska. Papers, followed by discussion upon the teaching of: "Botany," Prof. Conway MacMillan, University of Minnesota; "Chemistry," Prof. Charles S. Palmer, University of Colorado; "Geography," Prof. Erasmus Haworth, University of Kansas; "Physics," Prof. F. E. Nipher, Washington university, St. Louis; "Zoology," Prof. Henry E. Ward, University of Nebraska; "Astronomy;" "Geology."

Teachers of Manual and Industrial Training—Arranged by Principal Gilbert B. Morrison, Manual Training High school, Kansas City, Mo., program in preparation.

Teachers of Music—Arranged by Prof. C. H. Congdon, supervisor of music, St. Paul and Minnesota. Speakers: Prof. W. A. Hogdon, supervisor of music, St. Louis, Mo.; Prof. G. Katzenberger, supervisor of music, Chicago Ill.; Mrs. Reynolds, supervisor of music, Des Moines, Ia.; Prof. O. I. Woodley, supervisor of music, Menominee, Mich.

Teachers of Drawing—Arranged by Mrs. M. E. Riley, supervisor of drawing at St. Louis, program now in preparation.

Teachers in English—Arranged by Prof. E. M. Hopkins, University of Kansas. Papers, with discussion, on: "Proper and Effective Work in Shakespeare," Prof. L. A. Sherman, University of Nebraska; "Place of English Philology in the College Curriculum," Prof. E. A. Allen, University of Missouri; "Should College Entrance Requirements in English be Increased?" Superintendent W. H. Skinner, Nebraska City; "Laboratory Methods in Teaching English."

Kindergarten Teachers—Arranged by Mrs. Orietta Shields Chittenden, Omaha, program in preparation.

Teachers of History—Arranged by Prof. Fred M. Fling, University of Nebraska. Topics: "The Importance of Historical Study," "History in Secondary Schools" and "History in the University and College."

Child Study—Arranged by Dr. S. Stanley Hall, Clark university, Worcester, Mass., and Mrs. Grace Bibb Sudborough, Omaha High school, program in preparation.

Teachers of the Deaf and Blind—Arranged by Prof. J. A. Gillespie, Omaha School for the Deaf. Topics: "Modern Education of the Deaf," Dr. F. D. Clarke, Michigan; "Illustrative Exercises Showing Methods of Educating Those Both Deaf and Blind," Miss Linnie Haguewood of Iowa, with her teacher; "Class Exercise, Illustrating Aricular​ Methods," Mrs. O. T. Taylor, Omaha School for the Deaf; sign songs and other illustrative exercises interspersed. Addresses are expected from part, at least, of the following: Dr. Alexander Graham Bell, Washington, D. C.; Prof. D. C. Dudley, Colorado; Prof. J. E. Ray, North Carolina; Dr. Warring Wilkinson, California.

Teachers in Agricultural Colleges and Experiment Stations—Arranged by President W. M. Beardshear, State Agricultural college, Iowa.

RINEHART GETS THE CONCESSION.

Exposition Committee Disposes of the Camera Question.

As the time approaches for the opening of the exposition the letting of concessions is becoming more active and the Concessions department occupies a considerable portion of the time of the executive committee at the daily sessions. At the meeting yesterday the committee authorized Manager Reed to enter into contracts with various parties for a number of privileges.

The exclusive privilege of regulating the use of hand cameras on the exposition grounds was let to F. A. Rinehart. When the photograph concession was let to Mr. Rinehart the contract provided that it was not to apply to hand cameras using plates or films 4x5 inches or less in size. The method of controlling the use of these small cameras has been under consideration for several weeks, the Concessions department being uncertain as to the best manner of disposing of the question. The action of the committee yesterday throws the whole matter into the hands of Mr. Rinehart, who will operate it on a percentage basis. The price of admission to the grounds for hand cameras has not yet been fixed, but will be a matter for consideration at the hands of Mr. Rinehart and the exposition management. Pending the settlement of this feature of the matter no hand cameras will be allowed on the grounds and the issuing of "permits" for this purpose will be discontinued.

Stephen von Szinnyey was awarded two concessions, one of which will be called, "A Trip to Klondike." Would-be passenger will enter a railway station and purchase their tickets, which will be collected by the guard and passengers will be invited to enter the train. A railway car will be in waiting and when the passengers are seated the train will appear to start at a very rapid rate. As a matter of fact, the car will not advance an inch, but by means of mechanical effects the scenery will appear and disappear before the eyes of the passengers. Tunnels will be passed and the mountains will be crossed. With rapidly falling temperature the passengers will be furnished with heavy fur wraps and will alight in the frozen regions of the Klondike.

The other concession awarded to Mr. von Szinnyey was the right to issue official certificates of visitation, being an engraved certificate bearing the visitor's name and address and his photograph, and certifying to the fact that he has visited the exposition.

The Wetmore Bowen company of San Francisco was awarded the concession for selling pure, unfermented grape juice in handsome booths representing the giant trees of California.

Thomas J. Lipton of Chicago was awarded the concession for an East Indian tea house. He will erect a typical East Indian pavilion in the main court between the Mines building and the Auditorium and will sell tea and light refreshments.

C. E. Bickford of Nebraska City was authorized to operate a concession representing a New England bean house. He will erect a log cabin typical of the houses of the early pioneers of Maine, and in this he will dispense a large number of cold dishes such as were in vogue among the colonists, making a specialty of baked beans. The furnishing of the house and dress of the waiters will conform to the fashions of the early days.

N. B. Post was awarded the exclusive privilege of selling walking canes on the exposition grounds.

The Concessions department was authorized to have made about twenty kiosks or small booths for the use of concessionaires in small lines, to be stationed at convenient points about the grounds.

Manager Kirkendall was authorized to retail Fisher & Lawrie to make plans for a Press building for the use of representatives of newspapers and periodicals. He was also authorized to enter into negotiations for the establishment of a hospital by making use of a cottage on the grounds for the purpose.

A contract was authorized with R. C. Strehlow for the carpenter work in connection with the installation of toilet rooms in the main buildings.

COMPETITION AMONG CHILDREN.

Woman's Board Extends the Time for Closing the Lists.

The individual competition among the school children of the west, instituted by the Woman's Board of Managers for the purpose of securing material of a high order for the educational exhibit of the exposition, has been productive of excellent results. A large number of specimens of school work have been received at the office of the secretary of the Bureau of Education, but the secretary has also been in receipt of numerous requests from teachers and pupils, as well as others interested, to extend the time within which entries will be received. It is urged that the pupils, and also the teachers, have been straining every nerve to prepare material for the state exhibits and little time has remained for the preparation of work for individual entries. It was the intention to close the lists April 15 and to allow no more entries after the date, but in response to the pressure brought to bear it has been decided to extend the time to May 1. According to the rules governing this competition the work awarded prizes will be placed in the exposition and it will be necessary to close the lists not later than May 1 in order to allow the work to be judged and placed in the exposition.

The list of prizes has been increased by the donation by the publisher of "Arts in America" of five annual subscriptions to that publication. This paper is issued by Mrs. T. Vernette Morse, the secretary of the Central Art association of Chicago, the institution which seeks to elevate the taste of the people in the application of artistic decoration as applied to the household. Three of these annual subscriptions will be offered to class 4, which includes pupils between the ages of 12 and 15, for the best drawings of still life and light and shade. The other two subscriptions will be offered to class 5, including High school pupils, for the best illustrated essay on the subject, "How to Furnish a House."

The rule requiring each entry to be accompanied by a certificate will be enforced in the competition for these prizes as well as in all other competitions. These certificates may be had of the secretary of the Woman's board, Mrs. F. M. Ford, at exposition headquarters.

The entries which have been received in the individual competition have been especially strong in manual training exhibits. Washington university of St. Louis has sent a large exhibit of this kind of work and a number of entries have also been received from other sources.

Waiting for Commissioner Day.

The executive committee of the Bureau of Entertainment met in the directors' room at exposition headquarters yesterday afternoon to consider the matter of appointing the additional forty members of the bureau. It was announced that nothing definite could be done in the matter of securing the portion of the gallery of the Mines building for use as a place for entertaining distinguished visitors on the exposition grounds until the return of Mining Commissioner Day, who has charge of this building.

Mrs. John L. Webster was elected vice president of the bureau, but it was decided to defer the appointment of the forty additional members until the next meeting, which will be held at the call of Mrs. Clement Chase, chairman of the executive committee.

Call for Illinois Meeting.

Pursuant to resolution made by temporary organization all natives of Illinois living in Douglas county are requested to meet in mass meeting at the parlors of the Commercial club on Monday evening at 8 p. m. to assist in perfecting a permanent organization and to transact such other business as may come before the meeting

Notes of the Exposition.

The Eldora (Ia.) Ladies' band has applied to the Iowa Exposition commission for appointment as the official band for Iowa at the exposition.

The Georgia Exposition commission has issued notice to all cities and districts intending to make exhibits at the exposition that all material must be shipped out of the state not later than May 1.

Vice President H. B. Maxson of Nevada has notified the Department of Publicity and Promotion that matters are in good shape in his territory and a very creditable exhibit has been collected and is ready for shipment.

A telegram to the Department of Publicity and Promotion from the private secretary of Governor Mount gives notice that a meeting of the Indiana Exposition commission will be held in Governor Mount's office in Indianapolis Tuesday afternoon of the coming week.

The Atlanta, Knoxville & Atlanta railroad has announced that it will transport over all its lines, free of charge both ways, all material intended for exhibition at the exposition. Its local agents are instructed to use their influence to secure good exhibits of Georgia marble, copper, iron, gold and products of every character.

The Kansas Exposition commission has adopted a plan for raising funds for a state exhibit. Each county in the state will be asked to raise an amount equal to three-fortieths of 1 mill on its assessed valuation. The intention is to ask the legislature to reimburse each county for the outlay and little difficulty is anticipated in securing the necessary funds.

COAL MINE FOR THE WIGWAM.

Prospect for a Great Attraction Among the Other Exhibits.

J. N. Marsh, president of the Centerville Coal company of Centerville, Ia., was in Council Bluffs yesterday for the purpose of making arrangements for a great coal exhibit at the exposition. The company controls thirty working mines in Appanoose and adjoining counties, and is anxious to make an exhibit that will be one of the most elaborate and attractive features of the Iowa exhibit at the exposition. The nature of this exhibit has not been made public, but enough has been made known to indicate that its character will be something worthy of the great industry and the men who are its chief promoters in the state. One part of the plans contemplate the erection of a coal palace on a scale of sufficient magnitude to permit the construction of a regular working mine beneath the surface, showing the methods of mining, the machinery used and the vast extent of the Iowa coal fields.

An effort is being made to induce the coal companies to construct their exhibit in the Pottawattamie wigwam. The scheme is looked upon with considerable favor, and if sufficient room can be secured the propositions made the executive committee and the committee on exhibits may be accepted. The wigwam will undoubtedly be selected if the state building proves too small or crowded for the successful installation of the big display now contemplated. The company desires to get on the ground floor, but if the construction of the wigwam building shows that the second floor will be of sufficiently easy access to insure its publicity a portion of it may be selected for the purpose. There is a disposition, however, to get into the state building for fear the coal exhibit might be robbed of a portion of its state feature if installed in the county building. The matter will probably be discussed at the meeting of the association on next Monday evening.

Executive Committee Meeting.

The executive committee yesterday afternoon authorized President Wattles to enter into an agreement with the executive committee of the National Association of Firemen for the holding of a national tournament in Omaha in August or September.

President Wattles informed the executive committee that he had arranged with Rev. Samuel J. Nichols of St. Louis to deliver the prayer during the exercises attendant upon the formal opening of the exposition.

Iowa's State Building.

Secretary F. N. Chase of the Iowa Exposition commission notified the Department of Exhibits yesterday that bids for the erection of the Iowa building will be opened by him April 19 and work on the structure will be commenced within forty-eight hours thereafter. He also state that he has an architect now employed to design plans for the booths in which the Iowa exhibits will be displayed in the main buildings.

Grand Army Committee.

Major T. S. Clarkson, Captain H. E. Palmer and C. E. Adams have been appointed by President Wattles to co-operate with the special committee appointed by the department commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, to arrange for a reunion of the members of that organization in Omaha during the exposition.

CALIFORNIA GETS READY

Interest in the Exposition Revives at the Golden Gate.

WILL MAKE A GREAT MINING DISPLAY

Dr. Day Appoints M. H. DeYoung Honorary Commissioner and Two for the State—Governor Budd Takes a Part.

An Associated Press telegram from San Francisco contains the information that Dr. David T. Day, the mining commissioner of the exposition, who is in San Francisco in the interest of the mining exhibit, announces that everything is favorable for an extensive mining exhibit by California. Dr. Day is quoted as saying: "From present indications I think I am safe in saying that California will have the best mining exhibit at   Omaha [?]tion. I have asked Mr. M. H. DeYoung to accept the office of honorary commissioner of mines and mining for the United States at the Transmississippi and International Exposition, and he has accepted. Charles G. Yale and Tirey L. Ford have been appointed as mining commissioners from this state and I feel sure that these gentlemen will see that a creditable mining exhibit will be sent from California."

It is also announced from San Francisco that Governor Budd will, on Monday of the coming week, appoint a California Exposition commission to represent the state at the exposition.

This news was most gratifying to the exposition management, as the indications from California have been that the northern part of the state was disposed to do little in the way of making a display of resources. The southern part of the state has been making energetic preparations for an extensive exhibit, but all efforts to induce the northern part to take action have heretofore been unsuccessful. Special Commissioner R. W. Richardson was sent to the coast about two weeks ago and has been arousing the people to the importance of having the state represented in a creditable manner. The success that has attended his efforts is indicated by the dispatch referred to.

TROUBLE WITH A CONCESSIONAIRE.

Promoter of the Moorish Village and Manager Reed Get Together.

There has been some little friction during the last two weeks between the Concessions department and the concessionaire of the Moorish village, which culminated in the exposition taking possession of the buildings erected by the Moorish Village company.

Manager Reed states that this action was taken because Mr. Felder, representative of the Moorish Village company, failed to file the bond called for by his contract, although he had been notified several times that a failure to do so would result in his contract being declared forfeited. Mr. Reed said the filing of this bond was waived temporarily at the time the contract was made, as was done with several of the first contracts for concessions, but he said Mr. Felder had been given ample notice that a bond must be filed. When no bond was filed, after repeated notice, Mr. Reed said he had directed General Superintendent Foster to take possession of the buildings of the Moorish village and the contract was declared forfeited. Before it is reinstated Mr. Reed will insist upon a clear understanding with reference to several points which have been the cause of differences between the department and the concessionaire regarding the scope of the concession. Mr. Felder has claimed that his contract gives him the exclusive right for several specialties, chief among them being optical illusions. The department takes issue on this point and this matter will be cleared up when a conclusion is reached.

Mr. Felder declined to enter into any extended discussion of the situation. He says he intends to stand on his contract, and will insist on his rights. He says the giving of a bond was waived when his contract was executed, his understanding being that no bond was required. He also asserts that the Concessions department has violated his contract by infringing on certain rights granted to him.

EXHIBIT OF WAR DEPARTMENT.

Captain Ward Gets Notice of the Shipment of the Articles.

Captain H. C. Ward, U. S. A., the representative of the board of management of the government exhibit has been shipped and will arrive in Omaha within a few days. Some of the material included in this shipment will be of peculiar interest to visitors to the exposition, being torpedoes of various kinds and ground mines similar to the instrument of destruction which caused the wreck of the Maine. These exhibits are shipped from the Army War college at Willet's Point and include, in addition to the mines and torpedoes, models of engineering works of various kinds, models of mortar batteries, a model of Key West harbor, about which considerable interest is now centering; a model of a depression gun battery, a model of the American lock at Sault St. Marie, the largest canal lock in the world., etc. The shipment also includes a miscellaneous collection of small arms, including specimens of the antique as well as the most improved modern instruments of warfare.

Two cars of material for the exhibit of the fish commission are in the city and will be switched to the exposition grounds immediately. These contain exhibits, including models, fishing apparatus, casts, stuffed specimens, etc.

Two cars of burlap for the interior decoration of the Government building have also been received and the crew of decorators will arrive early in the coming week. There are two tons of this burlap, being 5,000 yards, forty-eight inches in width. The entire interior of the building will be covered with this material and over this will be draped flags and emblems of various kinds.

Montana's Exhibit.

HELENA, Mont., April 16.—(Special Telegram.)—The process of Montana will be represented at the Omaha Exposition. It is the intention of Commissioner W. H. Sutherlin, who will have charge of the Montana exhibit, to prepare a great exhibit of photographs of Montana scenery, Montana towns and citizens, mines and reduction works, canals and farms and protographs​ of the pioneers of the state. A second carload of mineral exhibits will be loaded at Helena next week for the exposition. Mr. Sutherlin expects to secure a splendid collection of gold nuggets and gold dust for the Montana mining exhibits. He has already arranged to secure a fine exhibit of gold from the Grasshopper placers at Bannack, which are now being developed by dredgers.

SUCCESS IN CALIFORNIA

GOVERNOR TO NAME A COMMISSION

Special Agent Richardson Sends a Very Encouraging Report of the Result of His Efforts Out There.

A gratifying report of the measure of success attending the efforts of Special Commissioner R. W. Richardson in California has been received by the Department of Publicity and Promotion. Mr. Richardson says that the prospects for a good exhibit from the entire state are more than flattering. After securing strong endorsements from leading people in the state, recommending the appointment of a state commission, Mr. Richardson says he called upon Governor Budd and had an extended conference with him. The result of this is contained in a letter to Mr. Richardson from the governor's private secretary, as follows:

"I am instructed by Governor Budd to inform you that after the presentation of your request that commissioners be appointed from this state to arrange for its representation at the Transmississippi Exposition, he has decided to appoint such commissioners, although no funds are available to enable them to arrange for an exhibition.

"The governor trusts that the commissioners whom he will appoint will, by their personal efforts, take such action as will be agreeable to the state of Nebraska, whose exposition the governor wishes the greatest success and which it would afford him the greatest pleasure to assist."

Mr. Richardson says this commission will probably be appointed early this week and will consist of seven of the most active men in the state.

LABOR AGITATORS AT THEIR WORK.

Efforts to Force a Strike Among Carpenters and Painters.

For the past two or three weeks rumors of impending labor troubles at the exposition grounds have been in circulation among those in touch with the exposition and in labor circles. These reports have been to the effect that the carpenters and painters were about to strike for a radical increase in the scale of wages being paid. Some of these rumors had it that the carpenters would demand that their wages be increased from 30 cents per hour to 60 cents, and that the painters were considering a demand for an increase from 30 cents an hour to 50 or 60 cents. Rumor also had it that a time for making the demand had been agreed upon, and that a general strike would be ordered unless the demands were complied with.

Investigation for some of the rumors, but no such radical demand as outlined above is cocntemplated​ at this time. At the three last meetings of the Carpenters' union this matter has been discussed, and at the last meeting a motion to increase the scale from 30 cents per hour to 37½ cents was defeated by a very close vote.

Conservative members of the Carpenters' union say that this matter is being agitated by men who have been in the city but a short time, and by some who have been members of a union but a short time. One individual, in particular, belonging to the latter class, is charged with being responsible for a great deal of the loud talk that has been going on recently. The conservative members profess to believe that the efforts of the radicals will nto​ succeed, and that they are greatly outnumbered by the men who belong in Omaha and who were parties to the agreement whereby the exposition recognized union labor and will allow the employment of none but union labor on exposition buildings in return for an agreement that the union scale wages in force at the time the stipulation was made should govern during the construction period.

The agitation among the painters has been along the same lines as that of the carpenters. The scale of wages for painters in the agreement between the labor representatives and the exposition management was fixed at 30 cents per hour, and the effort now being made is to increase this to 37½ cents. The situation among the painters is substantially the same as with the carpenters, and the conservative members express the belief that the agreement with the exposition will prevent any radical action being taken.

Whatever may be the outcome of the agitation among the painters, it is stated by one in position to know that this very agitation is directly responsible for the high figures in the bids submitted for painting the exterior of the exposition buildings. The bidders were cognizant of the fact that the painters were talking about demanding a radical increase in pay and the bids were made to cover such an emergency. The result is that these figures are so high that the idea of painting the exterior of the buildings has practically been abandoned. The painting of these buildings would have given employment to at least 200 men who will now be at leisure to discuss the necessity of demanding higher wages.

There have been slight misunderstandings between the carpenters and certain of the concessionaires on the Midway, who insist on working overtime without paying for it. These matters are in a fair way of adjustment, however, without serious trouble.

THIRTY-SIX STATES ARE COMING.

Promise of the Department of Publicity and Promotion Redeemed.

The prediction made several months ago by the manager of the Department of Publicity and Promotion, and reiterated frequently since that time, to the effect that when the exposition opens there will be at least thirty-five of the states and territories of this union officially represented and participating, is now verified by actual returns. These show that all of the nineteen states in the transmississippi region and three of the territories, together with fourteen states outside of the transmississippi region, will participate officially in the exposition, making a total of thirty-six. When the roll of the states lying west of the Great Father of Waters is called on the opening day of the great exposition of the resources of this region every state will be represented by an exhibit of its contribution to the vast treasure hours, and of the twenty-six states in the union lying outside of the transmississippi region, over half of them will answer "present."

In the last named class will appear the greatest states in the union, both in point of size and wealth, the list being as follows: Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia.

The list of states and territories in the transmississippi region which will participate in the exposition includes every state and all of the territories except Indian Territory and Alaska. The full list is as follows: Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, California.

The list of states which will have state building on the grounds is of no mean proportions, there being an even dozen now assured, with two or three more to be heard from definitely. The list as it now stands includes these states, a number of the buildings now being either completed or in course of construction: Nebraska, Illinois, Wisconsin, Montana, Georgia, Iowa, Minnesota, Oregon, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Colorado. Two or three other states are now considering the matter of erecting a state building on the grounds, among them being New York, so that the showing of state buildings will compare more than favorably with that at the World's fair and is not eclipsed by the record of any other exposition in this country.

Has an Historic Compass.

F. H. Farner of Masontown, Pa., writes to the exposition authorities that he has the surveyor's compass used by Alexander McClean to run the "Mason and Dixon line." He says the instrument is a mate of the one used by Washington when he operated as a surveyor, which is now in the National museum, and was made by the same manufacturer. He makes inquiry about the terms on which he can exhibit the relic and charge an admission fee.

Exhibits in Bond.

The bonded goods which are to be exhibited in Omaha during the summer are commencing to arrive in large quantities. So far the goods received have been mostly wine, laces, embroideries and art goods. One piece of statuary bonded at 1,500 francs and sent to E. E. Bruce, came to the custom house a few days ago.

Call for Missourians.

All Missourians are invited to meet at the Commercial club rooms this evening, April 18, at 8 o'clock, to organize a society of native-born people from that state.

Work on the Lake Street Line.

Notwithstanding the rain the Omaha Street Railway company has kept a force of men at work all day double-tracking Lake street from Twentieth to Twenty-fourth. Switches have been place dt​ both Twentieth and Twenty-fourth streets, in order that the Twentieth street line may be used to carry the exposition traffic from the depots direct to the grounds. While the street railway company will not put the largest cars on this line it will probably use the Hanscom park and Walnut Hill motors, which are much larger than the old style and are capable of carrying fifty persons without crowding.

For years the people of Walnut Hill and Clifton Hill have been crying for open cars. At last the ambition of the people out in the northwestern part of the city has been satisfied. This morning they were given the fine new motors.

COLONEL CARR'S PROMISES

ILLINOIS TAKES A DEEP INTEREST

Building Will Be a Palace and the Exhibits Will Be Those of Which the Great State Will Be Proud.

Colonel Clark E. Carr of Galesburg, president of the Illinois Exposition commission, is in the city in attendance at the meeting of the American Maize propaganda, of which he is also president. He visited the exposition grounds in company with Prof. Taylor, superintendent of the Horticulture bureau, and inspected the progress being made on the Illinois building.

Colonel Carr expressed great satisfaction at the brilliant prospect for a great exposition and was pleased with the handsome appearance of the nearly completed Illinois building.

"We have let a contract to Marshall Field of Chicago for decorating and furnishing the Illinois building," said Colonel Carr, "and expect to have it fitted up in excellent taste. We have been discussing Axminster carpets, with curtains and furnishings to match, so it can be seen there will be nothing mean about the building.

"Our exhibits are going to be on a large scale. We at first considered the matter of making a large agricultural exhibit, but concluded it would be like 'carrying coals to Newcastle,' and we will not attempt to make a great exhibit of corn and cereals, but we will make a very large exhibit of agricultural machinery of all kinds. We also considered the idea of making a large exhibit of live stock, but the same conditions obtained in that direction as in the case of the agricultural display, we intend, however, making a most excellent showing of fine blooded stock, of which we have the finest herds in the country. In horticulture we intend making a strong showing. We know that we have the first state in the union in the line of horticultural products, and we intend making an exhibit that will demonstrate the truth of that statement. This exhibit will be in charge of H. M. Dunlap of Savoy, president of our State Horticultural society and a member of the state senate. He is making preparations for a very fine exhibit and space has been reserved for it in the Horticulture building."

In reply to a question as to how many people from Illinois will visit the exposition, Colonel Carr said: "The people of Illinois are put out at the high rates which have been adopted by the railroads for points as far from Omaha as Illinois. The roads have been generous for short distances, but for all points in our state the rates are too high. If we can get fares low enough it is our intention to have a Knox college day at the exposition, when we will bring our entire institution, except the building, to the exposition. There are about 700 students in the college, besides the faculty and officers, and these will all come. In addition to these we have old students scattered all over the union, and especially in the west, and we intend to invite them to come to Omaha on Knox college day and help swell the crowd. We believe a very large attendance will result from this source. On Illinois day our governor and his staff, the mayor and city officials of Chicago, as well as the officials of all the principal cities and towns in the state, will come to your exposition. I do not believe the exposition will have any reason to say that the people of Illinois have not shown an interest in the exposition and have not attended it in large numbers."

OMAHA SCHOOLS AT THE FAIR.

Will Make a Kindergarten Living Exhibit in Girls' and Boys' Building.

The idea of a kindergarten exhibit by the Omaha schools in the Boys' and Girls' building at the exposition seems likely to be carried out in spite of the objectionable item of expense which inspired some opposition among members of the Board of Education. Secretary Ford of the Women's Board of Managers has offered the board 500 feet of floor space in the building for $400, and, although the board is not ready to spend that amount of money, the enterprise is likely to succeed with the aid of support received from other sources. The Kindergarten Supply company, from which the supplies used in the local schools are purchased, has assured Secretary Gillan that it will be glad to co-operate in the undertaking by paying for a considerable amount of the space on condition that it is given the privilege of including an exhibit of its kindergarten specialties. Another big school supply house has also agreed to assist in bearing the expense, and with this assistance it is expected that the entire exhibit will be undertaken. The entire matter is in the hands of a special committee of the board, consisting of Members Thomas, Gratton and Van Gilder, and a meeting of the committee will probably be called this week.

The proposed kindergarten exhibit is distinct from the regular educational exhibit and the plan is to install a "living" exhibit. This refers to a genuine reproduction of a kindergarten room, with the assistance of some of the pupils and teachers in that department of the local schools. The methods of kindergarten work will thus be practically illustrated, and it is believed that this object lesson would go a good ways towards increasing the public interest in favor of kindergarten instruction.

Superintendent Wigman of the manual training department of the High school has drawn a rough sketch of the space the will be required for the exhibit of that department. He urges that action should be taken at once, as there is short time remaining in which to prepare and install the exhibit, and the special committee will probably bring in a recommendation at the next regular meeting of the board.

BEMIS BAG COMPANY'S BUILDING.

Extensive Arrangements Planned for Exposition Headquarters.

Another extensive American manufacturing company has recognized the advertising possibilities the Transmississippi and International Exposition offers and closed a contract for a building on the bluff tract. The Bemis Brothers Bag company made public its plans yesterday and will begin at once the erection of a building which will in every way be representative of the burlap business of the United States. The plans for the building were drawn by Fisher & Lawrie and have been approved by the architects-in-chief, the contract has been let and work will be commenced in a few days.

The building will be located somewhere near the Wisconsin building, not far from the restaurants which stand at the bluff tract end of the main viaduct, and one of the unique features of the exhibit will be a field of growing cotton which will surround the building instead of the customary lawn. The drawings of the building show it to be two stories in height. The first story is octagonal, the roof being octagonal and surmounted by a group of four papooses and four cats emerging from bags. From the center of this group the flagstaff will rise. In all parts of the building the cats and papooses will be used for decorative purposes, being the trade-marks used by the Bemis company. A row of cats' heads will form the cornice and at the entrance two cats will stand guard in place of the traditional lions. The name of the company and the different branches will appear in the exterior decoration together with the trade-marks, but they are to be used only as they can be without interfering with the architectural beauty of the structure. The total expense will be between $2,500 and $3,000.

The interior of the building is to be in striking contrast to the pure white exterior. Colors of all sorts will be used. Burlap fabrics are used extensively in decorations that a great variety of materials can be had which is representative of the company's business and at the same time well adapted for draperies and wall decorations.

It is the intention of the Bemis company to make the building headquarters for all mill and grain men who attend the exposition. Among the conveniences the building will offer will be a stock ticker, telephone and telegraph facilities, writing desks and stationery, and no pains will be spared to make visitors comfortable. The company expects to send personal invitations to its patrons in all parts of the United States and hopes to secure a large attendance from among the milling and grain men of the country.

MORE TROUBLE ABOUT WIGWAM.

New Bids Must Be Submitted by Contractors.

The executive committee of the Council Bluffs Transmississippi association held a special meeting last night and made another unavailing effort to reach conclusions with the contractors concerning the construction of the wigwam. Before the bids were opened it was discovered that a number of the bidders had based their estimates upon erroneous information that caused them to bid too high. Others had based their bids upon a building larger than the association had contemplated building. Under the circumstances it was deemed necessary in justice to all of them to discard all of the bids and let them try again. For this purpose the building committee and the contractors will hold a conference this afternoon at 2 o'clock. The new bids will be submitted at a special meeting tomorrow evening. The contracts will then be let and the work of the building will follow as quickly as the material can be gotten on the ground.

General Test of the transportation committee reported a conference with General Manager Dickinson of the Union Pacific relative to the operation of trains from the Broadway and Ninth street station to the exposition grounds. Mr. Dickinson was unable to say just what his road would do and asked for suggestions from the association. General Test stated that the Terminal company was willing and anxious to put on a train system, but understood that they would be prohibited from building the necessary tracks on Union avenue to reach Broadway at Ninth street, and unless the injunction was dissolved to permit the construction of this piece of track the road could not arrange to handle the traffic. General Test also stated that a union depot be established at Broadway and Ninth for the use of all of the roads desiring to run exposition trains. The matter was referred back to the transportation committee for further conferences with the roads.

Secretary Judson reported that City Attorney Wadsworth had given assurances that there would be no trouble experienced in removing any legal obstacles in the way of the Terminal tracks on Union avenue.

FELDER GETS AN INJUNCTION.

Secures a Restraining Order Against the Concessions Department.

The first lawsuit involving the exposition has been commenced, Judge Scott having issued a restraining order yesterday afternoon on the application of A. E. Felder, the concessionaire of the Moorish village, a concession on the Midway. This order restrains the exposition authorities from interfering in any manner with the concession known as the Moorish village, and sets the matter for hearing before Judge Scott Friday morning at 10 o'clock.

This lawsuit grows out of the trouble between the Concessions department and the concessionaire of the Moorish village which developed last week. The trouble had been brewing for some time, the exposition authorities insisting that Mr. Felder must file a bond as provided in his contract or have his contract forfeited and Mr. Felder declining to file a bond because he claimed a bond had been waived. He also charged that the Concessions department had infringed upon his contract by selling to other concessionaires certain amusements on which he claims to have a monopoly under his contract.

Friday of last week the exposition took possession of the buildings of the Moorish village, General Superintendent Foster taking full charge and stopping all work on the buildings. Several meetings were held between the Concessions department and Mr. Felder, but no settlement was reached, Mr. Felder being notified that unless the demands of the department were immediately complied with the concession would be relet.

The reply to this ultimatum was the application for a restraining order.

DOUGLAS COUNTY'S OWN DISPLAY.

Commissioners Say it Will Be the Best of All at the Exposition.

The county commissioners are growing enthusiastic over the exposition and the exhibit that is proposed by Douglas county. They believe that the county is to outshine all others, both as to quantity and quality.

In speaking of the Douglas county exhibit Chairman Kierstead said: "We don't care what others may do, we propose to have an exhibit that will be the envy of all and at the same time one that will be a convincing argument that the soil of Douglas county is more productive than the boasted valley of the Nile. It will take money to make this exhibit, but we have the money and we propose to make our exhibit the best of any at the great show. We have experts at work now preparing designs and they are making good progress, but are not far enough along so that one can have a correct idea of just what will be accomplished.

"We appointed R. S. Berlin as superintendent of our general exhibit and already he is getting the work well in hand. Berlin is a great hustler and while his salary does not begin until May 1 he is hard at work formulating the plans that he will pursue in order to make our exhibit the most attractive. We appointed Mr. Davidson superintendent of the Apiary exhibit and from him we expect good results. Mr. Davidson was at the World's fair and it will be remembered that he took first prize on honey and supplies used by bee keepers. J. J. Hess, who is in charge of the floral display, is an expert florist and is laying his plans to make some unusually attractive displays in the Horticultural building.

"So far as the agricultural exhibits are concerned, I can't say just what we will have, but it is safe to venture the opinion that they will be attractive and neat. We intend to convince every person who attends the exposition that corn is king."

AMERICAN MAIZE PROPAGANDA.

Meeting of the Local Auxiliary Called for This Afternoon.

A meeting of the American Maize Propaganda was called for this morning, but a number of the men who are interested in the movement could not attend so the meeting was postponed till 2 o'clock this afternoon. Colonel Clark E. Carr, president of the national organization, B. D. Stone, national secretary, and R. M. Allen, members of the executive committee for Nebraska, are in the city. R. M. Allen has appointed the following committee for the Nebraska auxiliary of the movement: Board of Agriculture, R. W. Furnas; press, Victor Rosewater; commercial, J. E. Utt, Carl Morton; railroads, George F. Bidwell; bankers, Luther Drake; farm interests, Isaac Noyes; dairy, S. C. Bassett; grange, J. R. Camplin, O. E. Hall; cattle breeders, C. H. Elmendorf; swine breeders, W. Wolfe; sheep feeders, Taylor; milling interests, Chauncey Abbott; university, Prof. F. W. Taylor; grain, R. B. Schneider.

The committee which has charge of the propaganda's interests at the exposition is made up of R. M. Allen, John Cownie, Andrew Langdon, F. D. Coburn and E. S. Fursman. E. S. Fursman is an Illinois man and is expected to arrive in Omaha today.

Illinoisans Forming a Club.

Another meeting of Illinoisans who reside in Omaha, for the purpose of organizing a society, will be held at the Commercial club next Monday evening. In the meantime a committee of six will draft a constitution and by-laws to be adopted. Frederick J. Sackett is chairman of this committee.

The original intention was to limit the membership to only native Illinoisans in the city, but it was found after a permanent organization was effected at a meeting just held that this debarred so many other Omahans who formerly claimed Illinois as their home that it was decided to admit all to membership who were residents of that state for at least five years prior to their removal to Omaha. It was agreed that the officers who had been elected under the former rule should resign, and that a new organization should be effected under the substituted membership agreement.

Fully seventy-five Omahans have signified their intention to join the club, and those who are organizing it think that with the new membership privilege the society will number at least 250 members.

Executive Committee Meeting.

The executive committee yesterday authorized Manager Kirkendall to procure plans for service building to cost not to exceed $5,000 and plans for a hospital to cost not to exceed $2,000. He was also authorized to install a fountain on the south side of the lagoon near Twentieth street.

Manager Reed was authorized to make a contract with F. C. Johnson of Kishwaukee, Ill., for the exclusive to make a contract with John Sievers, jr., for the right to sell orange, wild cherry and pear cider.

Seattle Soliciting Committee.

The Seattle Chamber of Commerce has appointed a committee to solicit funds for an exhibit of the resources of the state at the exposition and this committee has been sending appeals to all sections of the state for contributions. At the regular meeting of the Chamber of Commerce last week the committee reported that the matter was receiving favorable attention in all quarters and it was decided to adopt the plan of asking subscriptions in installments, the payments covering the period during which the exhibit will be in course of preparation.

Georgia's Building Fund.

A report received by the Department of Publicity and Promotion from Georgia states that the commission has a fund of $10,000 at its disposal for an exhibit and is making active preparations for a display that shall be a memorable one. The manificent​ state collection which is in the capitol building is being renewed and increased and the resources of all parts of the state are being exploited in extended form, making the entire exhibit a most interesting one.

Tickets on Sale Tomorrow.

The sale of commutation tickets to the exposition will commence Wednesday morning. Canvassers will offer them in Council Bluffs, Omaha and South Omaha and the sale will be discontinued May 1. The tickets are good for 100 admissions and may be had for $20. They are non-transferable and the photograph of the persons buying them will be placed in the tickets to prevent their use by any other than the purchaser.

Arkansas Building.

W. B. Mathews, secretary of the Arkansas State Exposition commission, is in the city to look after the erection of the Arkansas building. He reports exposition matters as moving along nicely in his state. A fine representative collection of Arkansas industries and products will be sohwn​.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Eicholtz Novelty company of Ida Grove, Ia., has applied for space for a harness sewing machine.

W. A. Smith of Ida Grove, Ia., has secured the concession for selling cigars and tobacco on the exposition grounds.

George T. Williams, mayor of Ida Grove, Ia., "the best town on earth," as he terms it, is in the city to inspect the exposition.

A woman glass blower has secured space in the Girls' and Boys' building for the operation of a booth for the manufacture and sale of articles of blown glass.

John F. Longer of Niobrara, Neb., is in the city endeavoring to secure an engagement by the exposition of the brass band composed of Indians of the Santee agency.

The formal application from the Canadian government for 4,000 square feet of space in the International building has been received by the Exhibits department. This exhibit has been assigned space in the northwest corner of the building, being the most conspicuous location in the building.

Manager Lindsay of the Ways and Means department has received the photograph of Mrs. Amelia Savage-Reilly of Salem, one of Oregon's contributions to the galaxy of beauties of the transmississippi states. The photograph has been forwarded to Mr. Rockwood of New York, to be incorporated in the composite picture which will be placed on the exposition medal.

FIRE AND POLICE MATTERS.

Debate on the Exposition License Brings Out No Decision.

The matter of granting a license to sell beer and light wines on the exposition grounds occupied the time of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners last night. Protests had been filed by various temperance and religious organizations, including the Nebraska Christian Endeavor union, the national, state and local organizations of the Woman's Christian Temperance union and the Methodist Preachers' union.

James J. Mailley, a Methodist minister sent from Lincoln to represent the Red Ribbon club of that city, addressed the board for the contestants and was followed by Mrs. Mary Girard Andrews of this city, who made a plea for the refusal of the license on the grounds of the public safety and morality. An explanation was made by C. S. Montgomery, for the applicants, that the purpose of the exposition authorities was to restrict the sale of liquor to restaurants and to those beverages which are commonly served in connection with articles of food. It was intended, he said, to confine the use of stimulants in such a way as to be entirely unobjectionable. No decision was announced by the board and the matter has been taken under consideration.

Exposition Building Permits.

A permit has been issued to Dunnevant & Thompson for two buildings at the exposition grounds. One will be a pavilion 90x125 feet which will cost $7,000, and the other will be a smaller building for exhibitions, costing $1,300. The state commission of Georgia has [?]mit to put up a state

COLORADO LOSING A CHANCE

MRS. SHUTE SPEAKS OUT IN MEETING

Secretary of the State Horticultural Board Calls on the Citizens to Shake Off Their Apathy and Make a Showing.

Mrs. Martha A. Shute, secretary of the Colorado State Horticultural society and a member of the Colorado Exposition commission, has reached her home in Denver and has opened her batteries on the apathetic people of the Centennial state in a manner which threatens to smoke some of them out in short order. Mrs. Shute spent several days in Omaha recently making arrangements for the extensive horticultural exhibit which will be made by the various fruit raising sections of Colorado under her general supervision, and during her visit she took occasion to thoroughly investigate everything in connection with the exposition which had any bearing upon Colorado's participation in the affair. She inspected the grounds and buildings thoroughly and before she left on a flying trip for the east was thoroughly posted on all the affairs of the exposition. She declared in no uncertain manner that her state was neglecting its best opportunities and promised that she would stir the people when she returned. How well she has kept her promise is shown by an interview with her which appeared in the Denver Republican on Monday of this week. This interview was as follows:

"If Colorado neglects the opportunity to exhibit her varied resources at Omaha if will be to its lasting disgrace," said Martha A. Shute, secretary of the State Horticultural society, who returned from a visit to the site of the Transmississippi and International Exposition yesterday morning. Mrs. Shute is a member of the state commission, and it is due almost entirely to her earnest effort that the proposed horticultural exhibit is in such excellent condition.

"We have engaged and paid for 1,898 square feet of space in the Horticultural building," said Mrs. Shute. "A square foot of space for every year on the calendar. The Arkansas valley and the western slope are almost entirely responsible for the success of my visit to Omaha. Without the assistance of J. E. Gedding and George Swink of Rocky Ford and John S. Charlton of Mesa county the horticultural interests of this state would not have had as creditable a display as we are now assured of.

"I have seen nothing in print which adequately describes the grandeur and magnificence of this proposed exposition. It is on a scale of such magnitude that it must be seen to be appreciated. The buildings are simply enormous and they compare favorably with the structures at Chicago. Of course they have no forty-acre buildings at Omaha, but all the others are fully as well adapted to the needs as were the World's fair exhibit houses.

COLORADO'S GOOD CHANCES.

"The people of Omaha have been careful of Colorado interests and have been so in the face of almost criminal apathy on the part of the people of the Centennial state. The spaces reserved some months ago in the Mining, Agricultural and Liberal Arts buildings are still being held for Colorado and are being withheld from other states of far less importance, yet anxious to fittingly display to the world their lesser, yet varied resources.

"I am more directly interested in horticulture, but I would be a poor citizen of the state if I did not feel indignant at the laziness of the people of Colorado. New Mexico has engaged and paid for 2,000 feet of space in the Mining building alone. Colorado, with a much more choice location, has not engaged or paid for a single foot, and I want any one who knows to just pause for a moment and compare the wealth of these two commonwealths.

"I am sure if our citizens could hear the comments I have heard they would feel surprised at their state taking so little interest in the exposition. The other mining states are preparing to steal our thunder and are making every effort to put us in the shade. I sometimes wonder what has become of our boasted loyalty to our state. I think the governor was right when he said our greatest loss during the panic was our 'loss of courage.' I am sure if Mr. Lee, our mining commissioner, would go to Omaha and stay but one day he would be as appreciative of the necessity of making a mining display as I am, and as other commissioners are.

"Just let me say here that I think the Agricultural department has less excuse than Mr. Lee's department has, for Lieutenant Governor Brush was at Omaha and was the most enthusiastic man there. He said that he would or could almost guarantee an agricultural exhibit, and he said, in addition, that Colorado agricultural resources were equaled by but few states and excelled by none. The exposition directors at Omaha frequently asked me what he become of Lieutenant Governor Brush's enthusiasm. I told them he had it yet—in Greeley.

"Mrs. Mary Holland Kinkaid is taking a great interest in the educational department exhibit and her many friends in Omaha feel assured of a splendid display through her efforts. Mrs. Thayer is also doing splendidly with her fine art display. She has secured 400 feet of space in the liberal arts department and has the best space in the building.

"Regarding an exhibit from the State Agricultural college Hon. Alston Ellis asked me, before I left for Omaha, to ascertain what desirable space could be selected for the college exhibit. I have that information for him and I am sure that college will be represented.

"I am assured by the chief of the Horticultural and Agricultural departments that arrangements have been made with the Burlington & Missouri railroad that all exhibits will be forwarded to Omaha free of charge by fast freight. Arrangements for cold storage in Omaha will be perfected in a few days. The states represented in the Horticultural building are Illinois, Montana, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, California, Arkansas, Missouri and Colorado, and you mark my word, the last will not be the least in this galaxy.

"Of the thirty-five states to have exhibits at Omaha only about half a dozen have been assisted by legislative appropriations, so you see Colorado is in no worse condition than a couple of dozen energetic states."

MINNESOTA RAISES ITS MONEY.

Vice President Peavey Writes Encouragingly of the Outlook.

Vice President F. H. Peavey of Minneapolis writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that the affairs of the Minnesota commission are in excellent condition. He says the commission started out with the avowed intention of raising $25,000 and $20,000 is now in sight with a very good prospect of raising the other $5,000. Every county in the state has been asked to subscribe and Mr. Peavey says the counties are responding generously. It is the intention to ask the legislature to reimburse subscribers to the fund for a state exhibit and this operates as a strong inducement to all sections of the state to have each section well represented.

Plans for a state building have been completed and the state will have extensive and excellent exhibits of the agricultural, horticultural and mineral resources. The commission is receiving hearty support and co-operation from the Beekeepers' association of the state, the State Dairy commission and the State Dairymen's association, as well as from the live stock interests. A fine showing is promised of the flax industry of the state as well as the wool industry. In fact, Vice President Peavey says that matters in Minnesota, from an exposition standpoint, are in most promising condition and a fine exhibit and large attendance is assured beyond any doubt.

Macdonald on Denver's Outlook.

A. T. Macdonald of Denver, secretary of the Colorado Exposition and Denver commission, writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that exposition matters are in a more promising condition in that state at this time then they have been since the movement for a state exhibit was first started. The last meeting of the state commission, he says, was most satisfactory, and the prospects for a first-class exhibit in mining, agriculture, fine art and education are very good. It is said that Mining Commissioner Lee has "taken off his coat" and promises a good mineral exhibit and other departments are taking renewed interest, with the prospect of a fine exhibit in all lines.

The Denver building project is also said to be in promising condition and its erection is said to be assured.

GOVERNMENT EXHIBITS ARRIVING.

Uncle Sam's Show Articles Are Coming in Very Promptly.

The exhibit of the United States Fish commission is the first complete exhibit to reach the exposition grounds. All the material for this display is now in the Government building, and the work of installation will be   commenced shortly. There were three carloads of this material, this amount being in addition to the machinery, tanks, etc., which were received several week ako​. The salt water for the ocean fish has not yet been received nor have any of the live fish arrived.

The construction of the elaborate tunnel for the live fish exhibit is proceeding under the direction of Mr. Schneider, representative of the Fish commission, and this will be completed within a few days. The exhibit proper will be unpacked when the decorators shall have finished their work and will be put in position in short order.

Owing to a slight misunderstanding regarding stand pipes in the Government building for fire protection, water has not yet been turned into the fish tanks, but it is expected that the matter will be adjusted at once and water will be turned on and the tanks filled in order to disclose any leaks.

Nearly all of the government exhibits are now on the road and one or two cars of material are received nearly every day.

The interior of the building will be completed within twenty-four hours and the decorators are ready to commence work covering the interior with burlap. The carload of burlap is somewhere in the Omaha railroad yards, but the authorities have not been able to locate it, although search has been made for several days.

A heavy platform is being constructed from the south door of the Government building to the railroad track on the south side of the main court, to be used in unloading the heavy ordnance and other weighty exhibits which belong in the Government building.

Douglas County's Space.

Tomorrow the county commissioners expect to select their space in the Horticultural building, wherein they will make the Douglas county floral display. The commissioners wanted to get into the east wing of the building, opposite the point where the Nebraska exhibit will be located, but they were too late, the space having been taken. Instead of getting this, they have been given the choice of two locations, both of which are considered superior in many respects. One of the locations that the commissioners have under consideration is on the north side of the building, just to the west of the space under the dome and along the main aisle, running for east to west. The other is just across the aisle to the south.

The horticultural exhibit is being worked up under the direction of Superintendent Hess, an experienced florist, and in addition to the unique designs that he proposes to show, he will have a large and varied collection of native and tropical flowering plants.

British-American Association.

An adjourned meeting of the British-American association will be held on Thursday evening at 8 o'clock in the exposition directors' room, sixth floor, Paxton block, for the purpose of electing officers and completing the organization. All those of British extraction, and especially Canadians, are requested to be present.

Kansas Commission's Appeal.

The Kansas Exposition commission has issued an address to the people of the state asking them to co-operate with the commission in raising funds and materials for a state exhibit. The address sets out the advantages which will accrue to the state from an exhibit and states that the governor and members of the commission believe that all subscribers will be reimbursed by the next legislature.

Exhibits Arriving.

The Transportation department has received bills of lading for a shipment of mill stones and machinery shipped by Munson Bros. of Utica, N. Y., as an exhibit.

Three cars of showcases for the Mines building have been received from Washington, having been sent to Dr. Day, mining commissioner, from his department at Washington. They will be removed to the Mining building and installed for the reception of exhibits.

A carload of bamboo for the Chinese village on the West Midway has been received and is stored in bond. The Chinese village is well under way and the bamboo will be required in a very short time to complete it.

The full-size cast of the statue known as the Winged Victory has arrived from Paris and has been stored pending the completion of the Art building.

Executive Committee Session.

At the meeting of the executive committee yesterday afternoon the use of the Auditorium during the evenings of June 28, 29 and 30 was granted to the Transmississippi Teachers' convention.

Manager Kirkendall was authorized to make arrangements for increasing the height of the fence about the exposition grounds by the addition of a wire fence on top of the wooden fence already in position. He was also authorized to have a heating plant placed in the aquatic basin to keep the water at the temperature required by the delicate varieties of water lilies which will be cultivated in the basin. The painting of the interior of the Art building was also authorized, the galleries to be painted red and the domes green and yellow.

CARPENTERS WILL NOT HELP

UNION VOTES AGAINST AIDING A STRIKE

Agitation Among the Painters Continues, but Loses the Support of the Woodworkers—President Bell Investigates.

It has been decided by Carpenters' and Joiners' union, No. 427, not to support the agitation for a strike among the painters and decorators working at the exposition grounds. This decision was reached at a meeting of the union last night, and the attitude of the carpenters and joiners is clearly defined by William Turner, their walking delegate, who has made a statement to The Bee regarding the controversy.

"Our union does not feel that labor is being imposed upon by the contractors at the grounds in the matter of wages. We are willing to accept an increased scale, if it should be tendered to use, but as an organization we cannot see our way clear to agitate a strike looking to an enforcement of demands which some of the labor leaders are championing in the cause of the painters. We think the contractors are doing well by labor, and for that reason they ought not to be compelled to fight a strike. My impression is that there are only a few painters at the bottom of this agitation. They have the backing of a number of labor leaders, but even in their own organization there is apparently such strong opposition to their strike movement that I do not think it will ever materialize."

President W. H. Bell of the Central Labor union went out to the exposition grounds early this morning and passed the day in a personal investigation of the painters' alleged grievances. He has positively declared that he would talk no more about the trouble until some definite conclusion was arrived at and a policy formulated.

ARKANSAS' GREAT PREPARATIONS.

Secretary Mathews Talks of What He Expects to Show.

W. D. Mathews of Little Rock, secretary of the Arkansas Exposition commission, is in the city for the purpose of getting the work started on the Arkansas building. The contract for this building was let recently to Haines & Willetts of Stuttgart, Ark., and a member of the firm is in the city ready to commence operations.

"The Arkansas building will constructed of lumber donated by the lumber firms of our state," said Secretary Mathews, "and it will be a handsome structure. The building will be a fac simile of the Albert Pike mansion in Little Rock, one of the finest examples of the colonial style of architecture in the country. The building will be two stories in height with a wide portico across the front, the massive columns extending the full height of the house. The outside will be of staff and will be painted to resemble brick, of which the original is built. The interior will be finished throughout in native woods and this material is already collected. The contractor is here now and will commence work at once.

"Exposition matters in our state are in excellent condition," continued Mr. Mathews. "I have been devoting all my time to it and have been given every possible assistance by our newspapers. The columns of all of our papers have been open for exposition news at all times and the people of the state have been kept well informed regarding the matter. We have secured $2,500 from the railroads and hope to get more from some of the roads which have not yet given anything; we have been selling buttons to help raise funds for our building and exhibit and have raised enough money to make sure of having a display which will astonish the people who are not familiar with our state.

"I tell our people that we have the richest poor state and the poorest rich state in the union, and that statement describes the conditions that exist there. We are rich in undeveloped resources, and this exposition will afford us a most excellent opportunity to show the world what our state is capable of doing. We will make a showing in agriculture, horticulture, minerals, building stone, timber, etc., that will be a marvel. Our preparations are about completed and our people will be here in force."

More Building Permits.

Permits have been issued for a number of addition buildings at the exposition grounds. The most pretentious is that of the German Village company, which will be two stories high and cover a space of 150 by 250 feet. It will cost $15,000. The Chinese Village company has been granted a permit for a joss house and restaurant which will cost $2,000 and a soda water concern will build a pavilion 63x63 feet to cost $3,000. A permit has also been issued for the Wisconsin state building, which will cost about $10,000.

TAYLOR PROPOSES TO SUE

BENT ON FIGHTING DOUGLAS COUNTY

Ex-Member of the Exposition Commission Threatens to Replevin a Collection Unless His Demand for Money is Met.

It has become apparent that by discharging J. H. Taylor from his position on the Douglas County Exposition commission, the county commissioners laid the foundation for a lawsuit. Taylor is willing to quit, but he wants the grains and grasses that he turned over to the committee and for the purpose of securing them, he has hired an attorney who will bring a replevin suit, unless the difficulties are adjusted outside of the courts, which hardly seems probable at this time, as the county commissioners contend that they have nothing to arbitrate.

Some days ago Taylor was appointed to asist​ in the work of collecting a Douglas county agricultural exhibit for the exposition. At a subsequent meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, Mr. Taylor was dropped from the pay roll, but not until after he had been paid some $250 for his services and for material that he had on hand.

Last fall after the close of the State fair, the exhibits from the several precincts of Douglas county were turned over to Taylor for safe keeping. Some time ago when the county commissioners first talked of making an agricultural exhibit at the exposition, they discovered that the exhibit made at the last state fair was in Taylor's custody and that he would not let it go unless he was given a position with the exposition. The position was given and Taylor was appointed, after which he turned over the property. Afterward, the commissioners discovered that Taylor was a misfit in the position to which he had been appointed and he was removed, but not until after he had been paid for all of that portion of the exhibit the belonged to him.

If Taylor institutes legal proceedings, the county commissioners will fight the action to a finish, as they contend that if he ever had any claim upon the property, he surrendered it and received cash in full payment.

PEN THAT DID THE BUSINESS

MERCER WANTS IT FOR THE EXPOSITION

Files Application for Loan of the Article for Omaha's Show—Chadron Female Cavalry Offer Their Services.

WASHINGTON, April 20.—(Special Telegram.)—Congressman Mercer today requested the loan of the pen for exhibition at the Transmississippi Exposition which President McKinley used to sign the resolutions calling upon him to intervene with force of arms in Cuba. Secretary Alger received the pen from the president, having been the first to request the same. It was accordingly turned over to him.

T. P. A. NATIONAL CONVENTION

DRUMMERS READY TO INVADE OMAHA

Chairman Ben Hoffman Here to Make the Preliminary Arrangements for the Accommodation of Hundreds of Delegates.

Plans for the first convention that will be held during the Transmississippi and International Exposition are about complete. This convention is that of the Traveling Men's Protective Association of North America. It convenes on May 31 and continues until and including June 3. It is a national gathering and is likely to be attended by several hundred delegates and a large number of persons who will accompany those who are entitled to seats in the convention.

Ben T. Hoffman of Lafayette, Ind., chairman of the hotel committee of the association, is in the city making arrangements for the accommodation of the national officers. He has selected the Millard as the headquarters, but the members will be distributed among the other hotels, as no one hostelry   is large enough to accommodate the delegates and those who will come with them.

Speaking of the convention of the traveling men Mr. Hoffman said: "Everything indicates that this is going to be the greatest meeting that we have ever held. We have 323 accredited delegates and I have advices assuring me that they will all be in attendance if they are alive and well. Most of the married men will bring their wives, which ought to swell the attendance very materially. In addition to this there will be wholesalers, supply men and many others, so that it is safe to say that the convention will bring 2,000 strangers to Omaha. At our convention held at Terre Haute, Ind., the attendance was 700, while at San Antonio, Tex., it was 1,200. Omaha is much more central than the Texas town and as the exposition is another attraction, I feel safe in predicting that the attendance will not fall short of 2,000, while it may be double this number.

"The national officers are all bending every effort to make this the great convention in the history of our association and ia​ now looks as though it will succeed far beyond their expectations. We are pretty good men for a town, as we spend money liberally. While we are not spendthrifts we set hot pace and one that it may be well for other conventions to imitate.

The Nebraska branch of the association is doing everything possible in the way of putting up an interesting program for their guests. All of the meetings will be held in Creighton hall, that is the business meetings and such affairs as dances. The social functions, however, will be held at the Transmississippi Traveling Men's club house, Sixteenth and Harney streets. This large and roomy residence has been newly fitted. New carpets have been laid, couches have been placed and a well appointed buffet has been established. While not in convention or upon the streets or exposition grounds, the delegates will be expected to spend most of their time at these rooms, where they will have the keys to all of the lockers, which it is promised will contain the best that the county affords.

ROUTINE PROGRAM.

While the program of entertainment is not complete, it is pretty well along. The opening meeting of the convention will be held at Boyd's theater on Tuesday, May 31, at 10 o'clock a. m. This meeting will be opened with prayer by Rev. T. J. Mackay, rector of All Saints' Episcopal church, followed by an address of welcome by Mayor Moores, who will deliver the keys to the city. The response will be by President Joseph Wallerstein of Richmond, Va. This will be followed by an address by Governor Holcomb, who will welcome the delegates to the state of Nebraska, to which Jerry Porter of Kentucky will respond. The address in behalf of the traveling men of the transmississippi region will be delivered by Rev. S. Wright Butler of St. Mary's Avenue Congregational church and to this Rev. Homer T. Wilson of Texas, chaplain of the association, will respond.

Tuesday evening the delegates and their male friends will be initiated into the mysteries of the court of King Ak-Sar-Ben.

On Wednesday the delegates will devote their time to the transaction of routine business, but during the evening there will be the relaxation and they will attend a reception at the local club rooms, which will be followed by a ball at Creighton hall.

Some time during the convention the wives of the traveling men and the women of the city will give their female guests a trolley ride over the lines of the Omaha Street Railway company. The date of this function has not been fixed, as this and the completion of the program is in the hands of the local committee and has not been decided upon.

EXPOSITION WILL CATCH THEM.

While business will be transacted on Wednesday it is thought that the sessions will be very short, as most of the local and other delegates will want to attend the ceremonies attending the opening of the exposition.

While here Chairman Hoffman is the guest of the local association of traveling men and is being well provided for. He has advised that immediate steps be taken to secure the signatures of all of the traveling men of Nebraska and it is thought that before the middle of next month all of them will be enrolled as members of the national association.

At the present time the headquarters of the Nebraska branch of the Traveling Men's Protective Association of North America are located at Lincoln, but next month they will be removed to this city and will remain here during the continuance of the exposition.

BERLIN MATURING HIS PLANS.

County Superintendent Arranging for the Big Exhibit.

The county commissioners and R. S. Berlin, recently appointed superintendent of the Douglas county exhibit in the Agricultural building of the exposition, spent most of the day at the grounds, looking over the building and consulting over the matter of placing the county exhibit. While Berlin's services are not supposed to begin until May 1, he is hard at work in preparing plans for the Douglas county exhibit and organizing his forces for the work that will be under his direction.

Discussing the proposed exhibit of Douglas county Mr. Berlin said: "While we have not formulated our plans, we are certain of having the best county exhibit on the grounds. The farmers of the county are taking hold of the matter and promises to furnish us much valuable assistance. On the start we cannot expect to make much of a showing in the way of fruits and green vegetables, though we will have considerable in this line, as there is a fair quantity and a respectable variety kept over from last year, all of which is in cold storage. By the time this is no longer fit for exhibition purposes, the crop will be matured and then we will put in an exhibit that will open the eyes of the visitors.

"Regarding grains and grasses, right from the start we will make a great showing. We have a good stock left over from last year's exhibit at the State fair and this will be shown and kept in place until the new supply is ready. On the whole Douglas county is going to make a great exhibit."

CAPTAIN WARD IS KEPT BUSY.

Government Exhibits Coming in Rapidly Just at Present.

Matters are beginning to assume a very lively air about the Government building as shipments continue to arrive with materials for the different exhibits which are to be installed in the big building. Captain H. C. Ward, who has charge of the building, will take up his headquarters in one of the offices in the building the latter part of the week in order to be on hand all the time. At present the many shipments require the attention of one man all the time and Mr. Ludwig Boege has been appointed transfer agent for the purpose. Quartermaster Sergeant J. J. Hittinger, who is on duty in Captain Ward's office, is at the ground each morning to assist in looking after the exhibits, but in a few days these shipments has been let to the Omaha Merchants' Express company and a number of men and teams are already engaged in transferring the materials from the cars to the building. Some of the shipments are in less than carlots and these are hauled from town in wagons. The full cars are switched to the grounds and transferred to the building in the most convenient manner.

The carload of burlap which had been in the local railway yards for several days has been found and switched to the grounds. The decorators will commence work at once putting the burlap covering on the interior walls of the building. The installation of exhibits will follow close behind the decorators.

Bills of lading for a carload of medical supplies and full equipment for a field hospital have been received by Captain Ward. These supplies have been shipped from the storehouse at St. Louis, and another lot of materials from the medical museum at Washington are also en route.

WIGWAM WILL NOW BE BUILT.

Work to Proceed on the Big Structure at Once.

The Council Bluffs Transmississippi association last night ended the long unsatisfactory effort that has been made to get a suitable and acceptable bid from contractors to erect the wigwam building. It was summarily done by adoption of a resolution rejecting all bids and turning over to President Graham and some other intensely practical men the entire work and responsibility for the construction of the building. The work of construction will be begun at once and the structure will be finished and ready for the installation of the exhibits within a month or six weeks. The cost of the skeleton building was fixed at $3,000 and it is to be not less than sixty feet in diameter and as much larger as can be safely built.

Notice was received that the Iowa state commissioners would open an office in Council Bluffs within a few days and the association undertook to provide quarters for them in the Grand hotel. It is probable that one of the rooms on the ground floor of the hotel will be set apart for their use as an office for the next two or three months.

The resolution which had been referred to George F. Wright at a previous meeting advising the solicitation of a contribution from the city council was called up and a committee consisting of Mr. Wright, President Graham, Lucius Wells, Victor Bender, E. A. Wickham, Dr. Barstow, George Carson, A. S. Hazelton, Colonel W. F. Baker and L. Leverett was appointed to wait upon the council at the meeting on Monday night and ask for a donation of $1,000, or less, to be appropriated from the water fund to defray the cost of plumbing and water privileges in the wigwam.

The secretary presented a list of 104 names of business men who had not been solicited to contribute to the building fund and from whom it was thought at least $1,000 could be secured. The list was referred to Chairman Walters of the finance committee with instructions to have these men canvassed at once.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING.

Several Small Concessions Let and Staff Bids Submitted.

Several small concessions were awarded by the executive committee at its meeting yesterday afternoon, Manager Reed being authorized to enter into contracts with the following parties for the concessions named: W. S. King of Omaha, the right to sell badges and buttons on the grounds and in the buildings; Leon Mooser, a concession on the West Midway for a pavilion for the installation of a company of glass blowers with the privilege of selling the manufactured articles; Thomas Hoctor of South Omaha, the privilege of exhibiting trained and fancy dogs in a pavilion on the West Midway.

The Afro-American village concession was reorganized and the privilege was relet to Thomas Hoctor of South Omaha and J. P. Finley of Omaha, the name of the concession being changed to Old Virginia Plantation. They will erect a regulation plantation, with cabins, cotton fields, etc., and will have amusements of all kinds peculiar to the negroes of the south.

Bids for the staff work in connection with the electric fountain in the Mirror were laid before the committee by Manager Kirkendall, as follows: Alexander & Son, $1,450; Smith & Eastman, $625. These bids do not include the colossal figure of Neptune, which will surmount the central column of the fountain, Mr. Kirkendall having heretofore been authorized to make a contract for this statue at a cost not exceeding $300. The staff work on the fountain was awarded to Smith & Eastman.

New View of Exposition Grounds.

A new bird's-eye view of the exposition grounds, in colors, has been completed by E. J. Austen, the special artist who has made all of the official bird's-eye views of the grounds. The new picture shows the exposition grounds from the same point of view as the first picture, but the state buildings are shown exactly as they will appear when completed and the arrangement of the north tract is shown just as it will appear on the opening day of the exposition. When the first bird's-eye view was made many of these matters were not definitely settled and a number of changes have since been made, all of which are shown accurately on the latest picture. The work is done in several colors and is extremely handsome, being architecturally accurate and true in every detail. The picture will be reproduced in colors by the Department of Publicity and Promotion and will form a most effective advertisement of the exposition, as well as a most desirable memento.

KANSAS GETS READY TO BUILD.

Governor Glick Brings the Plans with Him to Omaha.

Former Governor George W. Glick of Atchison, president of the Kansas Exposition commission, is in the city for the purpose of making final arrangements for the erection of the Kansas building and taking bids for its construction. He brought the plans of the building and these have been approved by the architects-in-chief. Local contractors will be asked to submit bids for the building at once and Governor Glick will endeavor to dispose of the matter before returning to Kansas. The present visit is the governor's first since work was commenced on the exposition and he was greatly astonished and pleased at the sight which met his eye when he visited the grounds in company with Major Clarkson.

Governor Glick reports that exposition matters in Kansas are in most encouraging conditions. The process of raising money in the various sections of the state is a slow one, but he says he has no doubt about the ultimate success of the movement. The commission is pushing the work of collecting an exhibit and is proceeding as though the money was at hand.

The plan for the Kansas building brought by Governor Glick show a modest but attractive building. The central feature is a two-story pavillion, surrounded by an arcade.

INSTALLING NEBRASKA'S EXHIBIT.

Superintendent Johnson Prepares Booth in Agricultural Building.

E. D. Johnson, superintendent of the Agricultural department of the Nebraska Exposition commission, has commenced work in the Agriculture building, preparing the booth for the Nebraska agricultural exhibit. The space to be occupied by the Nebraska exhibit is at the northwest corner of the building in one of the four most conspicuous spots in the entire building. The main aisle running north and south through the center of the building passes along the end of Nebraska's space and the long side of the exhibit abuts on the main aisle, running east and west through the center of the building. Mr. Johnson and his assistants are straining every nerve to make the Nebraska exhibit the finest in the entire building and those in charge of the Douglas county exhibit, which is next north of the Nebraska exhibit, are making every effort to excel all the rest of the building, Nebraska included. Both of these exhibits are in the hands of men of long experience and artistic taste in this work and the result is sure to be highly commendatory.

Bringing Newspaper Men.

The passenger department of the Northwestern railway system is making preparations to bring to Omaha a party of representatives of the daily newspapers along the lines of this system east and north of Omaha. W. B. Kniskern, general ticket and passenger agent of the Chicago & Northwestern road, suggested the matter in a letter to J. R. Buchanan, general passenger and ticket agent of the Elkhorn, and the latter laid the matter before President   Wattles. Mr. Kniskern suggests making up a party of representatives of each daily paper along the lines of the Northwestern as far north as Gren​ Bay and Madison and as far west as Clinton, and bringing the party into Omaha early in the morning, returning the same evening.

The suggestion met with favor at the hands of President Wattles and he will lay the matter before the executive committee, suggesting that the party be taken in charge by the exposition management upon arrival and entertained during the day.

North Dakota's Exhibit.

Colonel C. A. Lousberry, vice president for North Dakota, telegraphs The Bee that the Department of Agriculture at Washington has shipped to Omaha, to be used in the North Dakota exhibit, Carl Guenther's great painting "Farming in the West," purchased by the government for $6,000. This painting is a composite picture of the famous Helendale and Dalrymple farms in North Dakota and will form the central figure in the North Dakota exhibit.

A meeting of the leading real estate men of North Dakota is in session at Fargo to promote the exposition.

Montana's Mineral Exhibit.

The minerals for the Montana exhibit are ready for shipment and a part of this material has already been shipped. Commissioner Sutherlin states that there will be about thirty tons of minerals in addition to the coal, which will weigh about twelve tons. In addition to the minerals, it is proposed to illustrate the development of Montana by means of photographs. Agricultural scenes, orchards, views of cities and towns and a collection of the portraits of Montana pioneers will be among the things which will be shown.

Maze of Mirrors.

Allison & Stone, contractors for the interior furnishings of the mirror maze in the Moorish village, have arrived in the city and will at once commence the construction of the maze. It is said this maze will be the largest ever constructed and will contain, in the maze and the palm garden which will form the center, 100 mirrors. The ornamental grill work and the arches in the maze will be reproductions of the famous Alhambra and will be elaborately decorated with bright colors and gold leaf.

Contracts for Statuary.

A contract for the statue of Neptune, which will surmount the pedestal of the electric fountain in the Mirror, has been made with E. H. Wuertz, the price being $250.

The statuary for the Arch of States will be made by Sculptor Bringhurst of St. Louis, the price being $1,050.

Indian Territory Editors.

The executive committee of the Indian Territory Press association has decided to make arrangements for an excursion of all the members of the association to the exposition after the regular meeting of the association at Wagoner, July 8.

CHANGE WROUGHT IN A YEAR

WORK DONE SINCE LAST ARBOR DAY

Laying of the Cornerstone of the Great Exposition Followed by a Transformation Almost Beyond Comprehension.

Arbor day is the anniversary of the beginning of active work on the exposition grounds. Just one year ago the cornerstone of the Arch of States was laid with imposing ceremonies and the work of construction was formally inaugurated. At that time no work has been done on the ground with the exception of putting up the high fence which now surrounds the entire grounds. A portion of the fence was completed at that time, but the only other work which had been accomplished up to that time was on paper. The grounds had been taken possession of just one month before and in the meantime the general plan of operations had been determined and the preliminary arrangements were being completed as fast as the importance and magnitude of the work would allow.

Military and civic societies, state and municipal dignitaries, exposition officials and private citizens joined in the ceremonies incident to the inauguration of an event fraught with such great importance to the people of the entire west. The cornerstone was laid with due signs and ceremonies by the grand lodge of Freemasons of Nebraska and the great exposition was formally inaugurated.

When this event transpired the Kountze tract, now the main court, was a flat piece of ground, surrounded by a wire fence. Nothing was grown on it except the wild grass and weeds. The bluff tract was a bare piece of ground, on which a good crop or corn had been raised the previous year. The north tract was another flat piece of ground devoted partly to cultivation. About one-third of it was included in the fence of the old fair grounds, and on this were a number of old buildings, which had long outlived their usefulness.

The year which has passed since the mighty throng wended its way along Twentieth street to the point destined to be the main entrance to the grounds, has been a year of great change. The three pieces of land constituting the exposition grounds have been transformed as though by magic and a more beautiful spot it would be difficult to find.

IN THE VAN OF ARCHITECTURE.

The Kountze tract is now known as the main court, and here is centered the architectural beauty of the exposition. Every effect is produced by strict adherence to the dictates of the strictly classical. Every building in this portion of the grounds is a magnificent illustration of classical architecture modified by a touch of the Renaissance sufficient to produce a result magnificent in elaborate decoration. Grouped about a canal extending the full length of the tract and connected with covered colonnades giving the effect of false perspective, an architectural effect is attained, which has never been accomplished at any former exposition and places the Transmississippi and International Exposition at the front in the line of superiority in architecture. Only the finishing touches are necessary to make this portion of the grounds complete.

The treatment of the bluff tract has been in strong contrast to that of the Kountze tract and the erstwhile cornfield has been transformed into the most beautiful parks within the limits of Omaha. Huge trees have reared their lofty heads where formerly the tassels of the waving corn nodded in the breeze and winding walk covered with gravel have displaced the straight and narrow furrows made by the cultivator. Numerous state building to be used as headquarters for the visitors from neighboring states have been erected or are in course of construction, and the beautiful Horticulture building stands in the middle of the tract as the center of attraction. The upper portion of the tract is assigned to the amusement portion of the exposition and an army of workmen is engaged in pushing the construction of the numerous buildings which will be peopled by the natives of other climes, who will furnish amusement for those attending the exposition.

ALONG THE NORTH TRACT.

The treatment of the north tract, from an architectural standpoint, is radically different from that of the other two tracts, and here, too, great changes have been wrought in the appearance of the grounds. This portion of the grounds is devoted to the display of agriculture and kindred industries and to transportation. It is very appropriate, therefore, that the buildings should conform, architecturally, to the uses for which they are designed. The style of architecture prevailing in the mountain districts of Switzerland has been adopted for these buildings, and an army of workmen is engaged in rearing the structures which will house the many exhibits which will be displayed here. The huge building devoted to agricultural implements and transportation appliances will occupy the center of this part of the ground, and it is far advanced. The Dairy and Apiary buildings are also in an advanced stage. A good portion of this tract will be devoted to irrigation exhibits for which no buildings are required, and for this reason the west portion of this tract has undergone but little change. The south part of this tract is devoted to a section of the Midway, and the erection of the many "villages" and pavilions makes this part of the grounds one of the busiest scenes in connection with the entire exposition. Numerous substantial buildings have taken the place of the ramshackle structures which formerly occupied the grounds and the old race track has disappeared forever.

HEADQUARTERS FOR THE PRESS.

Plans for the Newspaper Building Are Prepared.

Preliminary drawings and floor plans for a Press building have been prepared by Fisher & Lawrie under the direction of Manager Rosewater of the Department of Publicity and Promotion. This building is designed for the use of representatives of the press and will be fitted with the paraphernalia necessary for the successful conduct of the business of the occupants. The building is 50x60 feet on the ground and forty feet in height. The general style is Italian Renaissance of the Sixteenth century and the structure is a most attractive one. The interior is arranged in a manner which will afford execellent​ accommodations for the people who are to use it. The center will be a large room 31x35 feet in size, having a ceiling twenty-one feet in height. The room will be thoroughly lighted by windows in the clear story. On three sides of the room will be arranged small rooms, fourteen in number, each provided with tables, chairs, etc., and each having a door. In these the representatives of the press of the country may work in quiet and peace.

A small room at each of the front corners of the building will be occupied by the two telegraph companies and dispatches may be sent direct from the building.

Wool Men to Exhibit.

H. F. McIntosh of Omaha, special commissioner of the wool section of the Department of Exhibits, is in correspondence with sheep growers and wool men in all sections of the west and with people in the east interested in the wool business. He has received encouraging replies from the sheep raisers of the west and has assurances that a fine showing will be made in the wool section. The Montana wool growers have taken an interest in the matter and it is the intention to erect the Devil's Tower, a noted peak in Wyoming, using wool as the material. Other states are making preparations in the same direction and a good showing seems assured.

Mr. McIntosh has received a letter from A. W. Lightbourn, secretary of the Wool exchange, New York City, stating that the exchange will furnish a collection of standard types of wool on which quotations are based.

Nebraska-Born to Unite.

Prof. F. W. Taylor, president of the society of Nebraska-born persons, known as the Sons and Daughters of Nebraska, has received a letter from Rev. S. P. Merrill of Rochester, N. Y., stating that he will endeavor to attend the rally of Nebraska-born people, which will be held in Omaha during the exposition. Mr. Merrill is credited with being the first white person born on what is now the soil of Nebraska. He was born in the vicinity of what is now Bellevue, July 13, 1835, his father being a missionary among the Indians at that time.

A meeting of the executive committee of the society will be held in the near future to complete arrangements for the rally proposed to be held. This committee consists of Prof. F. W. Taylor, chairman; Roscoe Pound, Lincoln, and H. R. Esterbrook, Abingdon, Ill.

Government Representatives Arrive.

Representatives of the various departments of the government which will have exhibits in the Government building are arriving in the city in order to be on hand when the exhibits arrive. S. I. Slack and W. G. Brownlow of the Postoffice department, C. M. Beckwith of the Treasury department and E. J. Clark of the Agricultural department are in the city and will loook​ after their several exhibits when they arrive.

The cases, tables, etc., for the Agricultural department exhibit have been here for some time and are stored in one corner of the Government building. The Postoffice materials are here and are being unloaded at the grounds. Portions of the War department exhibit have arrived and these are piled in a heap on the floor of the building.

Barrel of Bulbs.

The Cushman Gladiolus company of Euclid, O., has shipped to the Bureau of Horticulture a barrel containing 350 pounds of gladioli, to be planted on the bluff tract in beds as the exhibit of this company. In this shipment are 1,000 bulbs of the May, 1,000 bulbs of the Mabel and the balance is said to be composed of the finest variety of named sorts. As soon as received these bulbs will be planted on the bluff tract and will contribute to the brilliant decoration of this portion of the grounds.

Select Their Flower Beds.

Hess & Swoboda and the Nebraska Seed company have selected the flower beds on the bluff tract which they will fill with flowers and keep in order during the exposition as exhibits. The beds selected by both florists are north of the Horticulture building. Hess & Swoboda will have beds of American Beauty and Bride roses and the Nebraska Seed company will have beds of verbenas, pansies and cannas.

Mrs. Shute is Satisfied.

Mrs. M. A. Shute, Colorado's commissioner of horticulture, writes to the Exhibits department that she is convinced Colorado will have a good exhibit in mining and live stock, as well as in horticulture. The recent meeting of the commission, she says, was the best meeting since the organization of the commission, and her report of the conditions in Omaha seemed to have a most salutary effect.

Headquarters for New Yorkers.

Secretary A. M. Wheeler of the New York Exposition commission, writes to Prof. F. W. Taylor, an old friend, that the New York commission expects to have a state building on the exposition ground. He says the building will be a plain, rather small structure, but will be sufficient to serve as a meeting place for New Yorkers and as headquarters for the commission.

Address to Iowa Teachers.

Superintendent Pearse of the public schools addressed the meeting of the Northwestern Iowa Teachers' association at Sioux City last night in regard to the Transmississippi Educational congress. The subject was also considered by other speakers and the interest in the enterprise was general.

Notes of the Exposition.

Thirteen carpenters have arrived in Omaha from Arkansas to commence work on the Arkansas building.

The Burkley Printing company has made final arrangements for 600 square feet of floor space for an exhibit.

Forming the Ohio Club.

Another meeting of the Ohioans will be held at the Commercial club rooms Saturday at 12:30 o'clock. At this time the organization of the club will be completed and the officer elected. All Ohio people are urged to attend. Women may become members of the club and they are especially invited to take part in its formation. Lunch will be served free.

WAR AND THE EXPOSITION

OPINION OF AN EXPERT ON THE MATTER

John Francis Believes the Attendance Will Be Large in Spite of the Interruption and Excitement Incident.

"What effect will the war have on the exposition?" This is a question which is in the months of many people in this vicinity. There are all shades and varieties of opinions on this matter, the consensus​ of opinion, among those who have given it little thought or who are not in position to judge intelligently, being that the effect will be bad and that the exposition will suffer from the general unrest attendant upon hostilities.

That this will not be the effect, however, may easily be seen by investigation of the conditions having a direct bearing upon this matter. The fact that the Exhibits department is daily in receipt of large sums of money, representing the final payments of the space charge made by the numerous exhibitors, is proof positive that the exhibitors are coming. For the last month these final payments have been coming in and there is no indication of any falling off in numbers. Each mail brings several thousand dollars in payment for space and it goes without saying that no exhibitor will pay for his space without occupying it. All of the available space in each building is taken and telegraphic applications from firms which delayed action are received every day. Bills of lading received by the Transportation department are prima facie evidence that thousands of dollars worth of exhibits are enroute to Omaha from all the points of the compass. These conditions assure an exposition and the only remaining factor in the success of the enterprise is the attendance.

People who have given this feature of the situation attention are all of the same opinion and all believe that the war will have no appreciable effect upon the attendance. The closest observers of such matters are railway men, as the very nature of their business leads them to study the conditions which govern the movements of people under all circumstances. John Francis, general passenger agent of the B. & M. railroad, has been studying this phase of the situation during the stirring events of the last few weeks and he expresses the conviction that the exposition will not suffer in the slightest degree from this effect of the war.

"The great bulk of the attendance at the exposition," said Mr. Francis, "will come from within a radius of 350 miles from Omaha and with good crcops​ and good business conditions these people will come to the exposition regardless of the war. So far as the attendance from the east is concerned I believe it will be even larger with war than without it. Under ordinary conditions there is heavy travel to Europe from this county every summer, but with the danger to travel incident to open hostilities, these people will undoubtedly forego their usual European trip and will cast about for some place to spend their summer outing. I have already taken steps to endeavor to corral a good part of this class of travel. I have taken up the matter with the eastern trunk lines, and an effort will be made to turn this travel westward to the mountains and the Pacific coast. We will endeavor to route this travel via Omaha, and will arrange stopover privileges for the tourists, so that they may spend several days in Omaha and visit the exposition. Nothing will be left undone to accomplish this result and I believe that in this way a large class of people will visit the exposition who would not think of coming west under ordinary conditions and the exposition will be correspondingly benefited."

ILLUMINATING THE COURT HOUSE.

Superintendent Houck Talks About the Fall Decorations.

The county commissioners are considering the question of illuminating and decorating the court house during the exposition. While they have not adopted any plan, they have several that are partially formulated.

During the Ak-Sar-Ben festivities of last year and the year before, the commissioners decorated the court house and did something in the way of illuminating, but they were never entirely satisfied with the effect produced, although they felt upon both occasions that the county building was the most attractive in the city and that it was the most admired, not only by strangers, but by residents.

Superintendent Houck of the court house has been requested to furnish and submit to the Board of County Commissioners a plan for decorating and illuminating. In speaking of the matter, he said: "The county building occupying a prominent position upon one of the main streets of the city can be made most attractive if money is appropriated to pay for doing the work. Last year we had some special electrical illuminations in the way of a flag, a shield and a star. They were very pretty, but I don't think that they quite filled the bill. If the county commissioners decide to illuminate this year and if they leave the preparation of the designs to me, I think I can work out something that will be attractive and at the same time not so very expensive. The court house is well adapted for making a magnificent display in an electrical way. For instance, take the north side of the building. We could work a farm or hunting scene in under the coping and have a fine effect. It could be a painting if necessary. This would show off to good advantage during the daytime and if illuminated, it would be very attractive at night. On the east and west sides of the building, up under the battlement, I think that we should have some figures. They are not expensive and if properly placed, they would add much to the general appearance of the building.

"Last year we placed a torch in the hand of the figure of Justice that surmounts the dome. That was satisfactory and could not be improved upon, but the dressing of this figure could be materially improved upon. Instead of having rows of incandescent lights running down the folds of her dress I think that it would be a good plan to have powerful lights placed at each of the four corners of the pedestals upon which she stands. This would not only bring out the figure, but at the same time it would light up the upper portion of the building.

"The flag decoration of last year was not up to my idea, but it was the best that could be done under the circumstances. Those streamers extending from the dome to the four corners of the building gave the structure the appearance of a back yard on wash day when the colored clothes were out on the line to dry. Stored away in the building we have the flags and pennants of all the civilized nations and if these were placed upon standards and grouped or arranged about the roof of the building I think that we could produce an effect of which we could be proud."

Whatever the commissioners do in the way of illuminating and decorating will be done very soon, as they have all expressed the opinion that if the court house is to be made attractive it should be done that it may put its best foot to the front on the opening day of the exposition."

STOCKMEN WANT CASH PRIZES.

Conference with Exposition Officers on the Exhibit Question.

A meeting of prominent stockmen from Missouri, Minnesota, Kansas, Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska was held last night for the purpose of discussing the exhibit of live stock at the exposition. The meeting was addressed by President Wattles and Edward Rosewater on behalf of the exposition management, and a general discussion was had of matters of interest to prospective exhibitors of live stock and breeders of show stock. The chief question under discussion was what kind of prizes should be offered. The exposition directors decided some time ago that medals would be better than cash prizes to offer to exhibitors, but it seems to be the opinion of the stockmen that money prizes would be more desirable and more apt to insure a fine display of live stock. It is the intention of the directors to arrange this matter in a manner satisfactory to prospective exhibitors.

Among the prominent stock raisers at the meeting were: Martin Flynn, G. E. Ward, J. E. Sherman, L. Brodsky, C. M. Lambing, Ben Nichols, Iowa; H. F. Brown, Minnesota; F. Bellons, George Bellons, Missouri; H. M. Wilson, Illinois; ex-Governor G. W. Glick, Kansas; F. M. Woods, ex-Governor Furnas, Nebraska.

British and Canadian Americans.

The British and Canadian-American club effected an organization last night at the exposition headquarters. About thirty Canadians and Englishmen were present, and the club started off under favorable circumstances. M. A. Hall was chosen as president and James C. Lindsay secretary. The election of vice presidents and members of the executive committee was deferred till a time when a full list of persons who are eligible to the club can be compiled, in order that the officers selected may be as representative as possible. It is the aim of the club to advertise the exposition extensively by sending circulars to England and Canada, and no effort will be spared to enlist every eligible person in Omaha in the work. Another meeting will be held next Friday night at the same place.

INDIAN CONGRESS MATTERS

BELIEVES APPROPRIATION IS ALL RIGHT

Iowa Senator Will Do What He Can to Push the Scheme Through—Notes from the National Capital.

WASHINGTON, April 21.—(Special Telegram.)—Senator Allison, chairman of the committee on Indian affairs, said today that in all probability he would convene a conference of the two houses on disagreeing votes on the Indian bill next Tuesday. It was indicated to Mr. Allison that much depended on the prompt action on the part of the conference so far as the success of the Indian congress at Omaha was concerned, and the senator was kind enough to say that he thought the appropriation for that specific purpose was all right.

MONTANA MINERAL EXHIBIT

VICE PRESIDENT SUTHERLIN DESCRIBES IT.

Says Thirty Tons of Choice Specimens Have Been Prepared and Will Be Brought Here for Display.

W. H. Sutherlin, vice president for Montana, is in the city and intends to remain here until after the close of the exposition. He will assume personal charge of the Montana exhibits which have arrived or are enroute and will superintend the installation in the exposition buildings. His family will arrive early in the coming week.

Mr. Sutherlin says the mineral exhibit of Montana will consist of thirty tons of all the various kinds of minerals found in the state. Reports from Montana are to the effect that the collection includes some unusually fine specimens, but Mr. Sutherlin is very modest in claiming superiority for the exhibit collected under his direction and merely says that he believes the exhibit will be a good one. Twenty tons of these minerals are now in the city and the remaining ten tons are on the way. A large supply of agricultural exhibits is also in the city. These materials are in the cars in the railway yards and have not yet been switched to the exposition grounds. As soon as the floor spaces in the Agricultural and Mines buildings are marked out these cars will be switched to the grounds and unloaded and the work of installation will commence at once.

Mr. Sutherlin says his state will have a good exhibit in horticulture, forestry and education. These have not yet been shlpped​, but arrangements have been completed for all of these and the materials will be shipped within a short time.

PUTTING ON FINISHING TOUCHES.

Government Building Almost Ready for the Housing of Exhibits.

The beautiful building in which will be displayed the exhibits of the government at the Transmississippi and International Exposition is about completed and a few days will see the magnificent structure turned over to the representatives of the various governmental departments who will install within its walls the extensive exhibits designed to illustrate the functions of the government.

This building is conceded to be the handsomest on the grounds and no pains seem to have been spared to make it magnificent in every detail. It is larger in every way than any of the other beautiful structures in this portion of the ground. Occupying the place of honor at the west end of the main court; facing the broad Mirror, the lagoon and the grand court formed by the main buildings of the exposition, the Government building is the most conspicuous object on the grounds. The architecture is Italian Renaissance in style and of the Corinthian order. The embellishment is massive and elaborate, every detail being carefully worked out. From the broad steps leading to the interior to the crown surmounting the colossal figure of "Liberty Enlightening the World," which overlooks the city from its lofty pinnacle 176 feet above the ground, the work is as carefully done as though the building was intended to stand for hundreds of years instead of being merely a temporary covering for the exhibits of the government.

The building is covered with staff, no plaster being used, even on the plain surfaces. On the contrary the latter are covered with great slabs of the white, marble-like staff, carefully fitted together and "pointed" and the ornamental portions are of [?] the entire building hav-[?]

Messrs. Alexander & Son, the staff contractors, are putting the finishing touches on the building by installing the huge groups of statuary which surmount the square pavilions are either side of the main entrance. The contract for the building requires it to be completed by May 1, but it will have been finished and turned over to the government fully a week before that time.

The building is already the center of admiration, all visitors to the grounds remarking upon its great beauty and substantial appearance, and the dazzling whiteness of he​ walls. Attaches of the various governmental departments connected with the exhibits to be made in the building, declare most positively that at no previous exposition has the government erected a building so artistic and beautiful.

INDIANA GETTING INTO LINE.

Department of Publicity Hears from the Governor's Commission.

The Department of Publicity and Promotion is in receipt of a communication from the office of Governor Mount of Indiana regarding the first meeting of the recently appointed Indiana Exposition commission. This meeting was held last Tuesday in the governor's office in Indianapolis and was presided over by former Governor Matthews and the following address was prepared and signed by the members of the commission:

"To the Officials of the Transmississippi and International Exposition, Greeting: The commissioners of the state of Indiana, appointed by the governor on behalf of the state, to the Transmississippi and International Exposition at Omaha, Neb., meeting today for the purpose of organization, send greeting to the managers of the exposition, congratulating them upon the magnitude of the enterprise and expressing the good will of the citizens of Indiana and their gratification at its assured success.

"It is a matter of sincere regret to the Indiana commission that, owing to the want of time and the fact that the Indiana legislature will not be in session until next winter, it is prevented from securing an appropriation for suitable representation of the state.

"We, however, extend the assurance that every effort will be put forth by the commission to encourage and provide exhibits by the citizens of the state."

This is signed by Claude Matthews, chairman; Charles E. Wilson, secretary; Frank B. Van Behren, W. S. Stevens, D. M. Parry, Horace E. Kinney, Mason J. Niblack, Mrs. Virginia C. Meredith, William Fortune, W. H. Sanders, Eli Marvin, Mortimer Levering, Fred Heath.

MINNESOTA'S STATE BUILDING.

Chairman Nind and Architect MacLeod Come to Construct It.

J. Newton Nind, chairman of the building committee of the Minnesota Exposition commission, and James Allan MacLeod, architect of the Minnesota building, are in the city with the plans of the building and will take bids from the local contractors for its construction. They will be in the city several days and will endeavor to make a contract for the erection of the building before leaving.

The Minnesota building will be one of the most attractive on the bluff tract. Its architecture will be on the order of a Swiss chalet, the exterior being constructed of rough logs. The building will be two stories in height and will be surrounded by side porches and balconies. The interior will be finished in native woods, showing the varieties which flourish in Minnesota.. The main hall will be finished in the fashion of a modern club, oak being used for the decoration. The room asigned​ to the men will be finished in the style typical of a lumber camp, split puncheons being used for the floors and the walls being rough. The room for the women will be in strong contrast with the men's room, being as light and dainty in appearance as it can be made.

The building will be 35x80 feet, exclusive of the porches. The logs and other material required in the construction of the building have been donated by the lumbermen of Minnesota and the material is ready to ship.

Government Representatives Arrive.

Representatives of the various departments of the government which will have exhibits in the Government building are arriving in the city in order to be on hand when the exhibits arrive. S. I. Slack and W. G. Brownlow of the Postoffice department, C. M. Beckwith of the Treasury department are in the city and will loook​ after their several exhibits when they arrive.

The cases, tables, etc., for the Agricultural department exhibit have been here for some time and are stored in one corner of the Government building. The Postoffice materials are here and are being unloaded at the grounds. Portions of the War department exhibit have arrived and these are piled in a heap on the floor of the building.

Nebraska-Born to Unite.

Prof. F. W. Taylor, president of the society of Nebraska-born persons, known as the Sons and Daughters of Nebraska, has received a letter from Rev. S. P. Merrill of Rochester, N. Y., stating that he will endeavor to attend the rally of Nebraska-born people, which will be held in Omaha during the exposition. Mr. Merrill is credited with being the first white person born on what is now the soil of Nebraska. He was born in the vicinity of what is now Bellevue, July 13, 1835, his father being a missionary among the Indians at that time.

A meeting of the executive committee of the society will be held in the near future to complete arrangements for the rally proposed to be held. This committee consists of Prof, F. W. Taylor, chairman; Roscoe Pound, Lincoln, and H. R. Esterbrook, Abingdon, Ill.

Matter for McClure's.

August F. Jaccaci, a member of the firm of S. S. McClure & Co. and manager of the art department of McClure's Magazine, is in the city to supervise the making of a series of pictures of the exposition for publication in the magazine. He is accompanied by W. A. White, editor of the Emporia (Kan.) Gazette, who will prepare the descriptive matter to accompany the illustrations. The article will occupy several pages of the magazine and the collaborators will be engaged in the city for several days collecting materials.

Headquarters for New Yorkers.

Secretary A. M. Wheeler of the New York Exposition commission, writes to Prof. F. W. Taylor, an old friend, that the New York commission expects to have a state building on the exposition ground. He says the building will be a plain, rather small structure, but will be sufficient to serve as a meeting place for New Yorkers and as headquarters for the commission.

Address to Iowa Teachers.

Superintendent Pearse of the Public Schools addressed the meeting of the Northwestern Iowa Teachers' association at Sioux City last night in regard to the Transmississippi Educational congress. The subject was also considered by other speakers and the in-

Notes of the Exposition.

Thirteen carpenters have arrived in Omaha from Arkansas to commence work on the Arkansas building.

The Burkley Printing company has made final arrangements for 600 square feet of floor space for an exhibit.

W. B. Leffingwell, representing Montgomery, Ward & Co. of Chicago, is in the city looking after the construction of the building being erected by this firm on the exposition grounds.

A permit has been issued by the Department of Exhibits for the erection of the Nebraska sod house which is to be erected on the bluff tract southeast of the Nebraska building by Mrs. Bowser and inhabited by her during the exposition.

Notes from the Courts.

The Moorish village injunction case was to have come up before Judge Scott, but as the parties were not ready for trial, the hearing went over until Monday morning.

HELPS OUT THE EXPOSITION

INCREASE IN LIFE SAVING STATION EXHIBIT

General Coppinger Likely to Be Soon Promoted to the Rank of Major General of Volunteers.

WASHINGTON, April 22.—(Special Telegram.)—Senator Thurston late yesterday in the sundry civil bill secured an amendment relative to the life saving station at the Omaha exposition, placing the station on the same basis as permanent stations, which will insure a life saving crew at the exposition on relatively the same basis as those maintained on the lakes and oceans.

Indian Educational Exhibit.

WASHINGTON, April 22.—(Special Telegram.)—Specimens of class room work of the Indian educational exhibit at the Transmississippi Exposition will be shipped to Omaha Monday.

MUSIC FOR THE EXPOSITION.

Omaha Chorus Prepares Plans for Its Appearance.

The arrangements for the participation by the Omaha chorus in the musical program of the exposition have been partially completed and the chorus was notified at the last rehearsal of what may be expected to begin with.

The chorus will make its bow before the public on the evening of June 2, when it will sing an opening ode written for the occasion by a member of the staff of a Chicago newspaper, with music by an American composer. June 6 the chorus will sing the "Daughter of Jairus," by Stainer; June 14 it will appear in an orchestral concert and will sing "Fair Ellen," by Bruch; June 20 the "Easter Hymn" from Cavalleria Rusticana will be rendered and June 27 "Rose Maiden" will be the bill.

With the exception of the opening ode the selections referred to are all in rehearsal. In addition to these the chorus will also be drilled on a number of other selections and will be in condition to respond to any reasonable demands.

At the last rehearsal the chorus took up, "Fair Ellen," and two choruses were gone over with a degree of success that was pronounced very satisfactory by Conductor Kelly. One or two choruses from the "Rose Maiden" were also taken up and the finals of the "Daughter of Jairus" and the "Easter Hymn" were reviewed.

The chorus is short of altos and a few good voices will be accepted at once by Conductor Kelly.

Director Kimball has appointed Jonathan Mellen secretary of the Omaha chorus and he will attend to the business details of the work, leaving Mr. Kelly free to attend to the musical features of the work. This will facilitate rehearsals, as a considerable portion of Mr. Kelly's time at each rehearsal has been taken up by consultations with members regarding details of business which will now be attended to by Mr. Mellen.

Musical Director Kimball states that arrangements are about completed with the Minneapolis chorus to visit the exposition and sing Director Willard Patten's composition, "Isaiah." A few minor details remain to be arranged in connection with transportation and Mr. Kimball says these will be disposed of with little difficulty. The chorus will sing in the Auditorium the afternoon of June 29.

Mr. Kmball​ says he is in correspondence with musical organizations at Dubuque, Salt Lake City, Milwaukee and other points. It is proposed to bring to Omaha the famous Tabernacle choir of Salt Lake City and arrangements looking to that end are in progress. The Milwaukee Lyric Male club is also negotiating for a trip to Omaha and indications are flattering that a number of excellence organizations will occupy the Auditorium stage during the summer.

TEST MADE AT THE POWER PLANT.

Machinery Found to Be in Good Working Order.

A portion of the machinery in the Power building was started up yesterday for the purpose of trying the mechanism, and also to secure a current of electricity with which to test the arc lamps which will be used on the exposition grounds. A Westinghouse engine of 330 horse power and a 125-arc dynamo were the machines used, being connected by a belt. One of the small boilers of the plant furnished the steam and everything worked very smoothly. This machinery will be used frequently for the testing of the arc lamps, there being a large number to be tested before they are ready for use.

There are now in place in the Power building the battery of six boilers which will furnish the steam for the engines. Four of these boilers are of 600 horse power and the other two are of 300 horse power each, making the combined horse power 3,000. The engines and dynamos which will furnish the power for the entire grounds are not all at hand. There are now installed two Westinghouse engines, one engine supplied by the Buffalo Forge company, four 125-arc dynamos and one power dynamo of 360 horse power furnished by the General Electric company. Several other dynamos and engines will be installed in the building as soon as they arrive. These are now en route to Omaha and are expected to arrive within a few days.

Superintendent Rustin of the Bureau of Light and Power, says that the Power building will be ready for business not later than May 3 or 4. The electric wiring is about completed and little remains to be done aside from installing the machinery yet to arrive and placing the arc and incandescent lamps.

Ohio Club Completes Organization.

At noon yesterday a meeting of the Ohio club was held at the Commercial club and arrangements were perfected for having a reunion of all Ohians​ and their families at the Commercial club on the night of Thursday, May 5. A musical program will be rendered and the remainder of the evening given to dancing and conversation. It is desired that every native Ohioan in the city be present and lend his influence to the building up of this club. The officers of the club are: John L. Webster, president; Dr. J. C. Denise, H. B. Howard, H. P. Kuhn, vice presidents; Frank [?]

NEARLY READY FOR OPENING.

EXHIBITORS ARE INSTALLING DISPLAYS

Superintendent Hardt Finds His Work Already Bearing Fruit in the Structures Around the Main Court.

The favorable weather of the last week contributed very materially to the progress of work on the exposition grounds and visitors who had not seen the grounds since the previous Sunday were astonished at the many changes which had been wrought in the week. The transformation which has been going on for the last year is approaching consummation at a rapid rate and no doubt remains in the mind of the most pessimistic skeptic as to whether the exposition will be ready for the opening day.

The greatest intent on the part of visitors as well as on the part of the exposition authorities naturally centers in the main court, as it is here that the greatest transformation has taken place and the most beautiful results are being rapidly attained. Busy workmen are to be seen on every side and under their deft hands the work is being rapidly completed. With the exception of the Art building the main buildings are now practically finished and the work of installing exhibits is under way. Minor details remain to be completed on two or three of the buildings, but these do not interfere in any way with the occupancy of the buildings by such exhibitors as wish to commence the erection of their booths.

The colonnades at the east end of the main court and the viaduct leading from the main court to the bluff tract are still under construction, but will be completed within the next two weeks. The park colonnades between the Machinery and Manufactures building on the north side of the lagoon and between the Mines and Liberal Arts buildings on the south side are nearing completion. The exterior of the Art building will be completed within the coming week and the interior of this building is now in the hands of the painters and decorators. The Arch of States and the Girls' and Boys' building are still in the hands of the carpenters and both will be ready for the staff workers by the first of next week.

PARKING AND PAVING.

The terraces in front of the Agricultural, Manufactures, Liberal Arts and Art buildings have been sodded and the rich green of the grass, contrasting with the dazzling white of the building, gives a faint hint of the beauty which will pervade the entire court when the work of the landscape gardener is completed. The broad promenades at the top of the terraces, extending entirely around the lagoon is making rapid progress. Gray brick is being used for paving around the Mirror. The wide space in front of the Government building and the broad plaza extending entirely around the three-lobed Mirror have been paved and the workmen are engaged in paving along either side of the lagoon. The walks through the covered colonnades have been macadamized.

Special efforts are being made to push work on the electric fountain in the Mirror and the contractor is employing a large force of men to finish the lower portion of the fountain so that the water may be turned into the lagoon. The piers for the permanent bridges across the lagoon at Twentieth street and the "docking" about the lagoon have been completed and as soon as the base of the fountain is constructed the lagoon will be filled with water again. It is expected that the water will be turned on Tuesday night. With the large supply pipes now connected with the water mains, but a short time will be required to fill the big basin.

The marking of the floors of the main buildings has been commenced. The spaces to be occupied by the exhibitors are outlined with broad white lines painted on the floor and each space is indicated by the number of the exhibitor. Each exhibitor is supplied with shipping labels marked with his number and when his goods arrive they are unloaded at the building designated on the label and the goods deposited on the space corresponding with the number on the label. This system was devised by Superintendent Hardy of the Exhibits department and all confusion is thereby avoided. When a prospective exhibitor makes application for space his application is numbered in the order of its receipt and this exhibitor is henceforth, for all exposition purposes, known by his number, and it is this number which is marked on the space assigned to the exhibitor in the main building and which appears on the shipping labels.

PUTTING UP THEIR BOOTHS.

The Agricultural building is in the possession of the Agricultural department of the Nebraska exposition. A force of men under Superintendent Johnson is engaged in preparing the elaborate booth which will be fitted up with the extensive agricultural exhibit to be made by Nebraska.

In the Manufactures building J. H. Hussie, a local dealer in stoves and hardware, is the first to take possession of the space assigned to him and a force of carpenters is engaged in constructing a booth for his exhibit.

The Otto Gas Engine company is the first arrival in the Machinery and Electricity building, a gang of masons and laborers being engaged on a masonry foundation for one or more engines.

In the Mines building Montana is the first arrival and the outlines of the booth which is to house the mineral exhibit of the mountain state are making their appearance.

The preparation of the exhibits in the Government building has been under way for some time, the Fish commission representatives having been in possession of the northwest corner of the building for some time, but these are now augmented by representatives of the War, Postoffice and Treasury departments and the interior of the building is beginning to present a lively appearance. Exhibits are piled everywhere in the middle of the floor, the object being to leave the walls clear so as not to interfere with the decorators, who now have full sway.

The decoration of the interior of the Government building is in the hands of J. B. Morey, a decorator of Washington, who performed the same service at all the recent expositions in which the government has participated. The plan of decoration of the building is very simple, but very effective. The walls are covered to a height of twelve feet with maroon colored burlap and above this point to the ceiling burlap of the natural color is used. The result is an effect of red and old gold, which is striking. The burlap is put on perfectly plain and a neat moulding covers the joining of the different colors.

The trusses which support the roof of the building will be hidden from view by festoons of drapery of red, green and old gold, with a stand of the national colors at the apex of each truss. The great dome, which rises to a height of 150 feet above the floor, will be festooned with bunting and American flags, and the huge iron columns which support the dome will be painted dark red to a point twelve feet from the floor and bronzed from that point to the top.

Irish-Americans Organize.

A large meeting of Irish Americans of Omaha and South Omaha was held at the office of Edward Walsh, in Paxton block, to take steps to establish Irish-American headquarters in this city during the exposition, the object being to entertain people of their race visiting the exposition. Richard Mulcahy was made temporary chairman and P. J. Barrett, secretary. Committees were appointed to invite delegates from the three divisions of Ancient Order of Hibernians in Omaha, from the Emmet Monument association, the Sheridan club, the Catholic Knights, the Catholic Mutual Benevolent society, the Ancient Order of Hibernians of South Omaha and from the Sorsfield guards of South Omaha. All others interested invited to be present at a meeting Monday, May 2, at Mr. Walsh's office.

Missouri Commission Business.

A meeting of the Missouri Exposition Commission was held in St. Louis Friday last and it was decided that the full amount of space reserved by the state in the several exposition buildings should be occupied by exhibits of the resources of the state and no effort will be relaxed to make the showing as fine as possible.

The report of the treasurer showed that $17,000 was on hand and this amount was divided among the several bureaus.

President Clark H. Sampson resigned his office and Colonel F. M. Sterrett was elected to succeed him.

Chorus from Dubuque.

A movement has been organized in Dubuque, Ia., to form a chorus of 100 voices to visit the exposition and sing Haydn's "Creation" and Jules Jordan's "Barbara Fritchie." The business men of Dubuque have assured Prof. Pontius that they will assist him in this movement to have Dubuque's musical talent properly represented and it is proposed to give a concert in Dubuque before starting for Omaha to raise money to assist in defraying the expenses of the trip.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Cosmopolitan for May contains an illustrated article on the exposition written by General C. F. Manderson.

Late information received from California by the Department of Publicity and Promotion is to the effect that the governor has promised to do all in his power to assist in securing a creditable exhibit of the mining interests of the state.

SANDWICH ISLANDS EXHIBIT

HAWAIIAN REPUBLIC TO TAKE PART

Representative of President Dole Apprises the Exposition Officials of His Intention to Show Goods at Omaha.

The Republic of Hawaiian is the latest acquisition to the list of foreign governments which will officially participate in the Transmississippi and International Exposition. This information was received by the Exhibits department in a letter from Robert W. Shingle.

Mr. Shingle writes from Honolulu under date of April 12 and says that on the day before the letter was written President Dole had recommended to the legislature an appropriation of $5,000 for an exhibit of the Hawaiian Islands at the exposition. Mr. Shingle adds that the legislature is still in session and the "bill will be passed within two weeks." The calm assurance pervading his entire letter leads to the inference that Mr. Shingle has been given a "hunch." This suspicion is supported by the statement that President Dole has notified Mr. Shingle that he is to be appointed general commissioner in full charge of the exhibit at the exposition.

A brief outline of the nature of the exhibit discloses that it will be largely agricultural, coffee being the leading feature, including the various stages of growth, and the subsequent treatment. There will also be included sugar cane, rice, taro and a full collection of island fruits tastefully arranged. In addition to this display of the agricultural resources of the islands, Mr. Shingle says he will bring a fine collection of island woods and many other things of interest to the people of this country, including a large collection of antiques.

Mr. Shingle asks that space be reserved for his exhibit in a desirable location and says he will leave the islands about the middle of May for Omaha with all his wares and people.

COMMANDANT OF THE GUARDS.

C. E. Llewellyn Chosen to Head the Exposition Police.

At the meeting of the executive committee yesterday afternoon Manager Kirkendall announced the appointment of the commandant of the guards for the exposition grounds and buildings. The appointee is C. E. Llewellyn, an Iowan who has been connected with the exposition as special agent for some time. Mr. Llewellyn has had extended experience in military matters and was attached to the staff of the United States marshal of this district for several years about twenty years ago. He will proceed to organize the guard within a short time and will take charge of the policing of the grounds. Manager Kirkendall says the force will be limited to about 100 men during the early days of the exposition, and for these positions there are thousands of applications on file from all parts of the country.

President Wattles was authorized to entertain the visiting editors to be brought to Omaha by the Elkhorn road next Monday evening to remain until Tuesday evening. The visitors will be entertained at dinner by the exposition officials and made to feel at home generally.

A number of bids for supplying ice to the exposition grounds and to the concessionaires, paying to the exposition a percentage on the receipts, were laid before the committee by Manager Reed of the Concessions department. Th​ highest percentage was offered by A. T. Ayer of 4027 Seward street. No one knew him and after some discussion Manager Reed was authorized to enter into a contract with the highest responsible bidder. Investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ayer's bid led to the conclusion that he is employed by a local ice company which put in a bid to pay the exposition 12 per cent on sales. Manager Reed will make a thorough investigation into the matter before making a contract with Ayer.

A concession was let to B. F. Mayer to put on the grounds fifteen to twenty-five automatic, recording, penny-in-the-slot scales, and to F. C. Whirley for four booths for the sale of cigars.

Models of Mail Carriers.

Among the articles which have been received as a part of the exhibit of the Postoffice department in the Government building is a model of the ocean liner, "City of Paris," the original of which has been the object of a great deal of interest during the last few days, and this model will undoubtedly attract great attention when the building is opened for inspection. The model cost $10,000, and is exhibited to show the present means of transportation of ocean mails, and in strong contrast to the greyhound   will be shown a model of the "Southerner," the first steam vessel to carry mail across the ocean. Another model will be that of a railway postal car. The model is ten feet in length and cost $4,000. It is complete in every detail. In contrast to this is an old stage coach, the original article, which carried the mails between Helena and Bozeman in 1878.

Money for Education.

The members of the finance committee for the Transmississippi Educational congress have been hard at work during the last few days collecting the necessary funds to carry the enterprise through. They report that their efforts have been more successful than they expected. Nearly the entire amount necessary to conduct the congress is now in sight, and they state that their requests for donations were met with a liberality on the part of local business men that was exceptionally gratifying. Notwithstanding the fact that no effort was made to collect the money at this time a large number of the donors insisted on paying cash, and about $600 was received.

The entire amount pledged, including what is expected from the school teachers, is $2,500, which is expected to be sufficient.

Illinois Club Forms.

At a meeting in the Commercial club last night of resident Illinoisans for the purpose of furthering the organization of a local society Emerson Benedict acted as temporary chairman and H. C. Betterman attended to the duties of secretary. A constitution and set of rules and regulations were adopted, and then it was decided to postpone the election of permanent officers until Wednesday evening, May 4, when a meeting for that purpose will be held in the directors' room at Transmississippi headquarters. In the meantime a committee to be announced soon by the chairman will canvass the city for members and to work up interest in the club, the purpose of which is to entertain people who shall visit the exposition from Illinois.

Photographer's Pavilion.

Plans for the pavilion to be occupied by Official Photographer F. A. Rinehart on the exposition grounds have been completed, and the construction of the building will be commenced at once. It will be located in the main court between the Girls' and Boys' building and the Electric and Machinery building. The building will be 48x37 feet in size and will be fitted up as a photograph gallery. There will also be a section of the building devoted to the amateurs, where supplies will be kept on sale, and a "dark room" will be provided, where cameras or holders may be loaded.

FIRST FLAG OF JOHN PAUL JONES.

Secretary Wakefield Hopes to Get the Relic for Exhibition.

Steps are being taken by Secretary Wakefield to secure for the exposition what is claimed to be the original American flag of the stars and stripes pattern. This old flag is now in the possession of Mrs. Samuel Bayard Stafford of Connecticut.

According to the story told of this ancient relic, it was made in Philadelphia by the Misses Mary and Sarah Austin and was hoisted by Captain John Paul Jones, the Ranger, in the fall of 1777. The flag was shot from the masthead in an engagement and was rescued from the ocean by Lieutenant John Bayard Stafford, an ancestor the present owner, who jumped overboard before it sank and recovered it. It was shortly afterward presented to him and has been in the Stafford family ever since.

The flag was originally fifteen feet long, but has been reduced to about nine feet by relic hunters. It is made of English bunting sewed with flax thread and has thirteen stripes and twelve stars, there being four horizontal lines of three stars each, the reason alleged for this being that Georgia had not entered the union at the time when the flag was planned.

Burlington Will Bring in Editors.

TheB urlington​ has adopted a plan by which it hopes to greatly aid the advertisement of the Transmississippi Exposition throughout the western country. It has sent personal letters to the editors of all the country papers urging them to visit the exposition sometime within th enext​ thirty days and inspect the grounds and buildings for themselves. Transportation for this purpose has been offered them, and about fifty editors have responded, saying that they will be glad to come in to see the progress made on the exposition work and in return to assist it as much as possible.

General Passenger Agent Francis of the B. & M. is quite confident that in this way much valuable advertising for the exposition can be secured throughout the country, as all the visiting editors will be so enthused at the sight of the grounds and buildings that they will not be able to restrain their pens from writing glowing descriptions of the great attraction of the west for the summer of 1898.

Work in Indiana.

Claude Matthews, a member of the Indiana Exposition commission, has written to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that the commission has divided the state into districts and each member has agreed to use his best efforts to induce the manufacturers in his district to take part in the movement to have the state represented. The commission is also arranging for several excursions of Indiana people to the exposition.

Idaho's Mineral Resources.

Dr. David T. Day, mining commissioner for the exposition, has been in Idaho stirring up the people regarding an exhibit of their mineral resources, and the local papers contain long accounts of the beneficial effect his visit has had upon the people interested in mining matters. According to the Boise Statesman the Idaho mineral exhibit will be on a large scale and will be very complete.

British American Club.

Tonight at the directors' room of the Exposition association the members of the British-American and Canadian club will meet to complete organization. All British-Americans are urged to attend.

Another Wisconsin Commissioner.

The governor of Wisconsin has appointed Hon. Hamilton H. Gray of Darlington, Wis., a commissioner of the Transmississippi Exposition for the Badger state.

Notes of the Exposition.

The regular meeting of the Nebraska Exposition commission will be held tonight at the Millard hotel.

Plans for the Service building will be completed within a few days and will be at once submitted for bids.

J. Sterling Morton, has accepted the chairmanship of the monetary congress to be held in connection with the exposition.

The Administration arch is being painted a pale ivory tint as an experiment. If the result is satisfactory the main buildings will probably be treated in the same manner.

Major John McClintock, agent of the Transportation department, has opened an office on the exposition grounds in the old brick building at Sherman avenue and Manderson street on the bluff tract. He will be on the ground at all times during the day and will have charge of the handling of cars of exhibits and material.

Commissioner W. D. Powell writes to the Department of Exhibits from Toluca, Mex., that a good exhibit from that country is assured if the war feeling does not interfere. He says the Sonora News is making preparations for an extensive exhibit and all indications are favorable for a fine representation of Mexican industries and resources.

Work is being pushed on the electric fountain in the middle of the Mirror. The central feature of this fountain will be a column forty-eight feet in height. The base of this column is in the form of prows of Norse boats with dolphins between at the water level. Above this will be the column, a Roman Doric shaft surmounted by a figure of Neptune.

A feature of the embellishment of the main court which will soon be in evidence will be the free use of trailing vines and hanging baskets of gracefully drooping plants. The colonnades, loggias and pergolas will be freely decorated in this manner and the colonnade at the east end of the main court will have a series of vases extending entirely around the circle in which will be graceful vines.

EXPOSITION STAMP ISSUE

BUREAU OF PRINTING GIVEN ORDERS

Number of Each Denomination Agreed Upon is Listed and the Work of Issue Will Soon Begin.

WASHINGTON, April 25.—(Special Telegram.)—Notwithstanding the talk of bond issues and printing revenue stamps for war purposes it is evidently the intention of the Treasury department to hasten the completion of the series of Transmississippi stamps decided upon by the postoffice department months ago. Today Assistant Secretary Vanderlip of the Treasury department directed the bureau of printing and engraving to prepare and subject to requisition by the postoffice department the following postage stamps to be issued in commemoration of the Omaha exposition:

One cent, 100,000,000; 2-cent, 200,000,000; 4-cent, 5,000,000; 5-cent, 10,000,000; 8-cent, 2,000,000; 10-cent, 5,000,000; 50-cent, 500,000; $1, 50,000; $2, 50,000; total, 322,600,000.

ARRANGES MINING EXHIBIT

COMMISSIONER DAY'S TRIP A SUCCESS

Western States Preparing to Make a Wonderful Display of All Sorts of Minerals at the Exposition.

Dr. David T. Day, mining commissioner for the exposition, has returned from a trip through the northern mining states of the transmississippi region and reports that the arrangements for a comprehensive and excellent mineral exhibit are very complete. In California he found that the community has been thoroughly aroused by Commissioner Richardson and complete arrangements are under way for a fine mineral exhibit. Washington and Oregon are each trying to excel the other in the extent and excellence of their exhibits and both are vieing​ with California to show an Alaska exhibit. Dr. Day says that all three of these states will have exhibits of Alaska products and outfitting supplies of all kinds. All do business with Alaska and the products of that far away territory pass through the ports of all three states, so that an extensive exhibit of Alaskan materials is assured.

Dr. Day visited Idaho and found all matters there is promising condition. Utah was especially gratifying to the doctor, and he says that state is collecting the finest mineral exhibit that has ever been seen at an exposition. The work is in charge of Don Maguire, an expert in minerals. Dr. Day says that at the Atlanta exposition Maguire amazed everybody at the excellence of the exhibit and the great wealth of the state as shown by it. At the coming exposition Dr. Day says Utah will eclipse all previous records, and will make a showing that will astonish the people.

When Dr. Day reached Wyoming he says he found the people inclined to let exposition matters go by default, but before he came away they had commenced packing their exhibit for shipment to Omaha.

In Colorado Dr. Day attended a meeting of the state commission held Monday night of this week and received assurances that the state will be represented in an excellent manner in everything except live stock. Dr. Day attributes a very large share of the credit for this condition to the report made by Mrs. Martha Shute, the state commissioner, of horticulture, who recently visited Omaha. Mrs. Shute stirred up the people in the most effective manner after her return, and, as a result, Dr. Day says he found that everybody is working with might and main to have the state represented in the best possible manner. Mining Commissioner Lee assured Dr. Day that the Colorado mineral exhibit will be the best the state has ever made, and will include a collection of crystalized​ gold, valued at from $30,000 to $40,000, which has never been shown before.

Dr. Day expresses the greatest satisfaction at the results of his flying trip, and says the mining exhibit of the exposition will be all that the most exacting could wish.

NEBRASKA COMMISSION MEETING.

Monthly Session Devoted to Routine Matters Exclusively.

The regular meeting of the Nebraska Exposition commission last night was mainly devoted to signing vouchers and passing on bills incurred since the last meeting.

Commissioners Neville and Casper were appointed as a committee to investigate the advisability of tinting the exterior of the Nebraska building.

A proposition from Dr. Lang of York to bring the York Glee club to the exposition the opening day and furnish music for that occasion was accepted and the club will warble in the Nebraska building June 1, during the exercises incident to the formal opening of the great fair.

Superintendent Youngers of the Horticulture bureau presented a basket of apples for the inspection of the members of the commission as a practical exposition of what may be expected in the horticultural section of the Nebraska exhibit. These apples were of several varieties of winter apples and all had been in cold storage, some of them since October. Without exception, the apples were as firm and hard as though just picked from the tree and their color and flavor were pronounced perfect. The members of the commission expressed the greatest gratification at the manner in which the apples had been preserved and were highly pleased at the outlook for a fine showing at the opening of the exposition. Mr. Youngers stated that he has sixty different varieties of apples in cold storage, all being the product of Nebraska orchards.

The Nebraska Exposition commission spent the entire morning in executive session considering the claims of the staff and plaster contractors on the Nebraska building. No conclusion was reached, but the committee appointed at the last meeting to investigate this matter was continued with power to act. The difference between the contractors and the commission is not a large one, in dollars and cents.

It was decided to paint the exterior of the state building to conform to the color of the other buildings, a pale cream color which preserves the staff.

Commissioner Casper announced the appointment of A. W. Shickley of Genevaas an employe in the Floriculture bureau, and Jerry Wagoner of Bellwood in the Agricultural bureau.

WONG CHIN FOO IS IN TROUBLE.

His Chinese Held Up and He Himself in Jail.

W. B. Howell, assistant secretary of the Treasury department, wired President Wattles that the collection at Port Townsend had received a telegram from Wong Chin Foo, the Chinese commissioner of the exposition, stating that he (Foo) would not receive the fifty-four Chinamen who arrived at Port Townsend early this week. Secretary Howell asked if Foo was the responsible party and if the Chinamen should be returned to their native land.

Following this telegram President Wattles received a wire from C. A. Souther, a ticket agent of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railway in Chicago, to the effect that Foo had wired the collector at Port Townsend to admit the Chinamen. The telegram also stated that the money in payment of the space on the exposition grounds would be sent to Omaha at once and asekd​ President Wattles to notify the collector at Port Townsend that everything is all right and that the Chinamen should be admitted.

Although no reference was made to the f act​ in any of this telegraphic correspondence, it is known that Foo is in ajil​ in Chicago on account of an encounter with an attorney in a court room while court was in session, both Foo and the attorney being sent to jail for contempt of court.

No action whatever has been taken in the matter by the exposition authorities, and President Wattles says he will not become mixed up in the affair in any way, but will let the Chinese commissioner and his backers adjust their own troubles.

Executive Committee Meeting.

Three concessions were awarded by the executive committee yesterday, Mrs. S. C. Dooley of Atlanta being awarded the privilege of operating an ostrich farm on the West Midway, she agreeing to bring at least fifteen full grown birds for that purpose; J. J. Manion of Dubuque, Ia., was given the privilege of selling optical goods and microscopes in the Machinery and Electricity building, operating in connection with the concession an exhibit showing the grinding of lenses, and the Nebraska Telephone company was awarded the concession for placing telephones on the grounds for the use of the exposition and the general public.

Manager Kirkendall was authorized to make a contract with R. P. Bringhurst for two groups of statuary of two figures each for the south viaduct.

California Takes More Interest.

Special Commissioner R. W. Richardson has returned from a trip to California in the interest of the exposition. He reports exposition matters in favorable condition in the northern part of the state with a good mineral exhibit assured. The southern part of the state has long been making energetic preparations for a fine exhibit of its products, but the northern section has been backward and apathetic. Governor Budd assured Mr. Richardson that he would appoint a commission of energetic and prominent men early next week and M. H. DeYoung, editor of the San Francisco Chronicle, and Secretary Filcher of the State Board of Trade have given their personal assurance that California will make a first-class mineral exhibit. Mr. Richardson says there is no question but that California will be represented in a highly creditable manner.

Exhibitors Preparing Booths.

The number of exhibitors who have commenced the erection of the booths in the main building is constantly increasing. The floors of all the buildings are marked with white lines showing the outlines of the spaces, and each space is marked with the exhibitor's number.

The Rock Island and the Cotton Belt railways and the state of Montana have commenced erecting their booths in the Agricultural building, and the Armour Packing company is at work on its booth in the Manufactures building.

British-American Club Meets.

A meeting of the British-Canadian American society was held in the exposition rooms last night to consider arrangements for the reception of British subjects who may visit the city during the eyposition​. John Laughland occupied the chair and explained the desirability of showing his fellow countrymen who may be in the city during the summer a good time. As there was only a small percentage of British Americans present it was determined to lay definite action regarding the entertainment of guests over until the meeting next week.

RATES FOR THE CONVENTIONS

RAILROADS MAKE THEIR ANNOUNCEMENT

One Fare Plus Two Dollars for the Big Events, and One and One-Third Fare for the Smaller.

The meeting of the Western Passenger association in Chicago has adjourned and the passenger men of this city who were in attendance have returned. The meeting was of great importance to Omaha. Besides forming a tacit agreement among the western lines to charge 2 cents per passenger per mile for the transportation of the volunteers the meeting fixed upon rates for all the national conventions that will be held in the west this summer. As a majority of these will be held here during the exposition, the work of the meeting has been received here with great interest.

Rates of one standard fare, plus $2, for the round trip have been declared for the larger meetings that will be held here. These include national conventions whose previous meetings have been attended by upward of 500 delegates. For the other conventions that will be held in Omaha during the exposition it is announced by the passenger officials that rates of one and one-third regular fare will be made for the round trip. The rate of one fare, plus $2, made for the big meetings here is the same rate granted for the Christian Endeavor convention, the Grand Army encampment, the National Educational association and other national meetings to be held at other points.

The meetings for which rates have so far been announced by the Western Passenger association are as follows: Transmississippi Teachers' association, Omaha, one fare, plus $2, from points in transmissouri territory and from eastern committee territory, from Mississippi river points and west thereof. The date of sale for these tickets will be June 26 and 27, and points within 150 miles of Omaha for trains arriving in Omaha on June 28. The final limit is July 5, with the provision that tickets may be deposited with the joint agent for an extension not earlier than July 1, nor later than July 3. The extension may be made until August 31. Tickets will be good for continuous passage in both directions.

For the annual convention of Travelers' Protective association, Omaha, May 31-June 3, the rate for the round trip will be one fare plus $2. The dates of sale from association territory generally will be May 29 and 30, and within 150 miles of Omaha they will be May 30 and 31. There will be a limit of ten days on these tickets.

For the American Institute of Homeopathy, Omaha, June 24-30, the rate will be one fare plus $2. The dates of sale will be June 22 and 23, and from points within 150 miles of Omaha, June 24. The final limit on these tickets will be July 7.

For the National Turnfest, Omaha, July 15-17, the rate will be one fare, plus $2. The date of sale from all association territory will be July 14, and in addition from all points within 150 miles for all trains, arriving in Omaha on July 15. Agents may sell from Colorado points and west on July 13. Tickets will be good for continuous passage in both directions. The final return limit will be July 22.

For the National Congress of Retail Liquor Dealers, Omaha, August 22-27, the rate will be one fare, plus $2. The dates of sale from association territory east of Colorado will be July 21, and from points within 150 miles from Omaha for trains arriving here on the morning of July 22. Agents will sell from Colorado points and west on July 20. Continuous passage in each direction will be the rule. The final return limit will be September 1.

For the national convention of Bohemian Turners, Omaha, August 28-30, the rate will be one fare, plus $2. Agents will sell from association territory, east of Colorado, on August 25, and in addition from all points within 150 miles for trains arriving here on the morning of August 28. They will sell from Colorado and west on August 26. Tickets will be good for contiuous​ passage in both directions. The final return limit will be September 5.

INDIAN BILL CONFERENCE

DECIDES FATE OF INDIAN CONGRESS

Some Good Work Done in the Right Way Will Assure This Feature for the Coming Bog Show at Omaha.

WASHINGTON, April 27.—(Special Telegram.)—Senator Allison has notified the conferees on the Indian bill that a conference will be held tomorrow morning in the rooms of the senate committee on appropriations. The difference between the houses so far as the bill goes is not so much a question of money as it is a legislative provision. The house bill carried an appropriation of $7,517,454, while the senate bill carries $7,725,120, that being an appropriation of $45,000 for the Indian congress at the Transmississippi Exposition. The house disagreed to this amendment and the conferees will accordingly have to pass upon the advisability of retaining this amendment in the bill. It is believed that the members of the conference are in favor of the provision, but active work is needed on the part of the members of the delegation to cinch the matter.

John Jacob Astor, who has tendered a fully equipped battery to the president and has offered to take command of the same or take any position which may be assigned him, is at the Shoreman. To The Bee representative he stated today that it was an ill wind that blows nobody good and out of the war Omaha would profit immensely, in his opinion. Instead of a large tourist travel to Europe this year he thought people with money would for the first time explore the west and Omaha, with its international exposition, would benefit immeasurably from existing conditions. He cited in support of his proposition that one of the large European steamers sailed today from New York with but eighty passengers, whereas at this time a year ago an ocean liner could not accommodate travel, passage being booked for days and weeks in advance.

Harry H. Brigham, son of Assistant Secretary Brigham of the Agricultural department, has been selected by the board of government control to represent the department at the Omaha Exposition and he leaves Saturday for his post. He will be accompanied by Jasper A. Wilson, son of the secretary of agriculture, who will take a minor capacity under Mr. Brigham. Wilson leaves tomorrow to make a short visit at Ames, Ia., before entering upon his duties at Omaha.

William V. Cox, secretary of the government board, who has been appointed custodian of the building by Secretary Gage, will leave for Omaha Friday or Saturday, transferring his office from the Smithsonian institution to the Gate City at that time. Mr. Cox says that the whole of the Smithsonian exhibit is now enroute with the exception of one car, which will be forwarded this week. In his capacity of secretary of the board Mr. Cox has thus far issued requisitions for transportation to the following government employes detailed to the Omaha Exposition, and who are now on the grounds or enroute: G. A. Schneider and R. J. Conway, fish commission; C. H. Brekwith, treasurer; S. I. Slack, W. G. Brownlow, J. B. Brownlow, postoffice; S. J. Logan, E. H. Behuke, A. C. Anderson, navy; G. B. Sixworth, C. R. Dodge, J. A. Wilson, agriculture; W. V. Cox and J. L. Farmer, representatives of board.

ART DESIGNS FOR DOUGLAS

ARRANGING THE COUNTY'S FINE DISPLAY

Commissioners Decide on the Plans for Decorating the Booth in the Agricultural Building and Begin Work.

The county commissioners have decided on the plans for decorating the space Douglas county will occupy in the Agricultural building at the exposition and the details are being worked out. The space allotted to the county is in the extreme northwest corner of the building, just to the left of the main entrance on the west, as one enters that end of the structure. It is sixty-seven feet long and thirty-three feet deep, with a ceiling twenty-five feet high.

The front of the Douglas county space and   also the east end, will be worked out in a series of arches. The base of each arch will be of wood, worked in with colored grains, giving them the appearance of mottled marble. The columns above the bases and supporting the arches will be glass tubes, four inches in diameter and six feet long. They will be filled with colored seeds. These arches will lead into alcoves, all of which will be backed up with canopies of sheaf grains and grasses. There will be two main arches opening onto the main aisle running lengthwise through the building from east to west, just in front of the exhibit.

Sitting on a throne back of the arch, King Corn will reign in all his glory, while a few feet to the west and facing the second large arch, his consort, Queen of the Valley, will occupy a position. Both these figures will be of heroic size. The king will be built of clay and, while the material is still soft, it will be covered with kernels of corn. The crown for the king will be of yellow corn, while his face will be worked out in white and red. His robes will be of the leaves of the cereal, with the colors blending so as to give a rich and finished appearance. The throne on which the king will sit will be of different colored corn, the kernels being stuck into the great clay chair.

GORGEOUS WORK IN GRASS.

The Queen of the Valley will be all that her name implies. Instead of being built up of grain, she will be constructed of clay and will be clothed in grasses. Her face and the exposed portions of her person will be covered with grass seeds. Her crown will be of the same material, though golden in color. Her drapery, as well as the throne on which she will sit, will be covered with grasses, the bright and the modest colors blending in the most perfect harmony.

Along the front facing of the Douglas county space and well up toward the ceiling will be the words: "Douglas County Nebraska." This lettering will be in corn of different colors. The letters will each be two feet square and will be made from corn shelled from the cob and stuck on heavy canvas, the space between the letters being covered with some other variety of grain. The space back of this frontage and between the king and queen will be occupied by huge pyramids of glass jars, filled with all kinds of grain, and extending from the floor to the ceiling. The east end of the exhibit space will be worked up to harmonize with the front, the style of arches and the work on the front being identical with that along the main aisle, though everything will be upon a somewhat smaller scale.

Inside of the Douglas county space on the west wall space will be the relief map of the county, worked out in grains and grasses, together with the seeds of the products of the soil. This map will show the location of the farms of the county, the school houses, the towns, the railroads, the wagon roads and the general topography. On the north wall two figures will be constructed of grains and seeds, but just what these figures will be the authorities refuse to state. They declare that they are preparing a very pleasant surprise for the people and are not quite ready to give out their plans.

GLORIES OF THE CEILING.

The ceiling over the Douglas county space will be laid out in stars, squares and circles, the Ak-Sar-Ben colors to predominate and fill the space between the designs. From each of the ceiling designs there will hang pendants made of the grains and grasses of the county, each individual design to be of a color different from its neighbor, sheaf grain and grasses to be worked in to blend the colors and not produce a coarse and heavy effect. From every pendant from the ceiling electric light bulbs will shed their rays, though most of them will be hidden from view, so that instead of seeing the bright glare, there will be nothing visible except the diffused rays.

The designs for the Douglas county exhibit are all being prepared in the building at Twenty-fourth and Hamilton streets and most of them are well along in the way of completion. A large force of boys and girls are at work assorting the grains and seeds, while another force is at work stitching them upon the canvas. The work at the Agricultural building is making good progress, the frame work about the space being about completed. As soon as this is done, the designs will be taken out to the grounds and put in place, after which the decorators will be put in charge of the exhibit. The figures of King Corn and the Queen of the Valley are being made, the artist having completed his small models and is now at work upon those of the heroic size.

Speaking of the Douglas county exhibit, the commissioners say that in their judgment it will be the finest and most attractive agricultural display upon the grounds. They say they propose to show the visitors to the exposition that Douglas is the banner county in the state and that the soil will produce any and everything that can be raised in the temperate zone.

WORKING ON THE BLUFF TRACT.

Carpenters Start on the Iowa Building—Other Progress.

The working force on the bluff tract of the exposition grounds was increased this morning by a large gang of carpenters who began work on the Iowa state building. P. H. Winn of Council Bluffs has the contract for this building, a temporary shed to serve as a workshop is being erected and work on the building will be commenced at once. [?] progress and no doubt remains about it being finished on time.

The interior of the Nebraska building is about completed and presents a very handsome appearance. The walls have been tinted in an artistic manner under the personal direction of the hostess of the building, Miss Mellona Butterfield, and the electric wiring is finished. The woodwork has been finished in "hard oil." It has been decided to paint the plaster on the exterior of the building a pale cream color, leaving the staff white, after the plan adopted for the Illinois building. This will improve the appearance of the building very much and will make it one of the handsomest on the grounds.

A mosaic floor is being laid in the rotunda of the Illinois building and a large force of workmen are engaged in putting the finishing touches to the interior. The art annex is nearing completion. The Wisconsin building is in the hands of the staff contractors and the decoration already in place gives promise of the handsome appearance of the completed building.

The Montana building is enclosed and is one of the most attractive buildings on the bluff tract. The exterior is covered with weather-boarding and shingles, differing from the other buildings on this tract.

The Georgia building is taking form. The framework of the flat dome which will surmount the main entrance has been reared and the staff workers will begin covering the framework within a few days.

The landscaping of the bluff tract is still being prosecuted with great vigor, Landscape Architect Ulrich giving the matter his personal attention. Beds for flowers have been laid out in great profusion. The space to be devoted to lawn is now covered with a good growth of blue grass produced by sowing seed about two weeks ago. The grass is nearly two inches high, and the appearance of the tract is greatly changed by the fresh green color. Seeds and bulbs for the flower beds are being received in quantities from exhibiting florists, and the next two weeks will be the bluff tract covered with young plants. The planting of bushes and shrubbery of all kinds is still in progress.

CONFERENCE ON THE INDIAN BILL.

Provision for Congress of Red Men Likely to Be Accepted.

WASHINGTON, April 28.—(Special Telegram.)—Conferees on the Indian bill held a short meeting this morning. They are now in session. Differences on the bill are not so great as was expected and it is now thought the Indian congress amendment will be reached and passed upon before adjourning today.

French Exhibits Start Saturday.

Frederick Mayer, the French commissioner, has advised the Department of Exhibits that all of the pictures and other materials for the fine art exhibit, together with the industrial exhibits constituting the French section, will be shipped to Omaha April 30, and will be accompanied by the exhibitors.

Mr. Mayer writes that the French minister of commerce, M. Henry Boucher, has notified him that all French railways and steamship lines will carry articles for the exposition at greatly reduced rates and Mr. Mayer says this will induce a great many exhibitors to take part who have been holding back on account of the freight rates.

The fine art exhibit, Mr. Mayer says, consisting of seventy-seven or seventy-eight pictures of the highest degree of merit and he congratulates the department on the general excellence of the entire showing on the part of the French exhibits.

Utah's Mineral Exhibit.

Judge L. W. Shurtliff of Ogden, chairman of the Utah Exposition commission, accompanied by S. T. Whittaker of Ogden, is on the exposition grounds to look after the installation of the Utah exhibit. The booth in the Mines building to be occupied by Utah was commenced several days ago, and the installation of the mineral exhibit will be commenced as soon as the booth is ready. Mr. Whittaker is an architect and will have direct charge of the installation of the Utah exhibit. He served in the same capacity at the British exposition in Glasgow and the last Paris exposition.

Judge Shurtliff is not inclined to say much about the exhibit to be made by his slate, saying that the exhibit will show for itself when it is in place. He says the material is all ready for shipment and will be shipped just as soon as everything is ready to receive it at this end of the line.

Spokane Raises a Fund.

Telegraphic information received from Spokane by the Department of Publicity and Promotion is to the effect that a rousing meeting of citizens was held there and a determination reached to raise a fund of $10,000 for a state exhibit at the exposition. One-half of this amount was subscribed on the spot, and committees were appointed to raise the balance.

It developed in the meeting that a fine mineral exhibit from Washington is assured and steps are being taken to secure an extensive exhibit from British Columbia.

Preparing the Program.

President Wattles has summoned Superintendent C. G. Pearse of the Omaha schools, Musical Director Kimball and Major T. S. Clarkson to his assistance in preparing the program for the opening day exercises, including the examination of the numerous poetic effusions which have been offered as "opening odes." There are a large number of these latter of various degrees of excellence and the committee will pass judg-[?]

ELKHORN VALLEY EDITORS IN TOWN

North Nebraska and South Dakota Newspaper Men at Exposition.

The editors of newspapers along the lines of the Elkhorn railroad in Nebraska were the guests of the exposition officials today, and they were taken care of in a manner calculated to put them in touch with the exposition and all that has been done in connection with the great fair. Many of the newspaper representatives arrived in the city last night and others came in this morning. To the number of about ninety they assembled at the corner of Farnam and Fifteenth streets at 9:30 o'clock this morning and were there taken in charge by Major Clarkson of the exposition and taken to the exposition grounds on a special trolley train. A trip was made over the grounds by the whole party, the visitors who had not seen the grounds and buildings before expressing the greatest astonishment at the magnificence of the preparations, and those who had visited the grounds at some previous time being even more surprised than their colleagues at the rapid progress which has been made. After passing all through the grounds and buildings the party returned down town and were entertained at luncheon.

Major Clarkson presided at the luncheon and short talks followed the cigars. Manager Rosewater and G. M. Hitchcock spoke briefly regarding the exposition and the newspapers and a number of the guests expressed themselves regarding their entertainment and the exposition in general.

The visitors left for home on the regular afternoon trains.

The following are those constituting the party:

Charlotte Burnside, Grand Island; G. W. Hunt, Salix, Ia.; Miss May Williams, Sioux Falls, S. D.; George F. Kenower and wife, Wisner, Neb.; J. S. Brorby and wife, Hooper, Neb.; J. T. Kenower, Wisner, Neb.; H. M. Kidder and wife, Scribner, Neb.; Mrs. F. O. Edgecombe, Geneva, Neb.; George A. Baker, Ewing, Neb.; H. E. Foster, Plainview, Neb.; Laneber L. Slagel, Davenport, Neb.; C. H. Swallow, Humphrey, Neb.; H. G. Thomas, Harvard, Neb.; E. S. Scofield, Elgin, Neb.; Phil F. Sprecher, Norfolk, Neb.; G. S. Evans, Meadow Grove, Neb.; D. L. Pond, Inman, Neb.; L. E. Scouten, Albion, Neb.; O. D. Wilson and daughter, Geneva, Neb.; Judson Graves, Neligh, Neb.; A. A. Logan, H. L. McCoy, Creighton, Neb.; W. J. Waite, Exeter, Neb.; J. C. Guilinger, Norfolk, Neb.; A. L. Stewart, Newman Grove, Neb.; J. H. Betzer, Seward, Neb.; C. C. McHugh, O'Neill, Neb.; Joe Matoffy, Surprise, Neb.; Hugh McGaffin, Gresham, Neb.; P. F. O'Sullivan, Clement O'Sullivan and A. J. Langer, West Point, Neb.; B. B. Smith, Long Pine, Neb.; D. J. Poynter, Albion, Neb.; Romaine Saunders, Leigh, Neb.; W. S. Barker, Valentine, Neb.; C. L. Mayes, Petersburg, Neb.; W. E. Dayton, M. C. Frank, York, Neb.; Judd Woods, Atkinson, Neb.; J. N. Sturdevant, Stuart, Neb.; A. F. Enos, Stanton, Neb.; J. C. Bergelt, Norfolk, Neb.; A. S. Shockley, J. E. Glassie, Belle Fourche, S. D.; Robert Gow, Valentine, Neb.; E. E. Humphreys, Hay Springs, Neb.; J. W. Bunleigh, Ainsworth, Neb.; Edith M. Pray, Exeter, Neb.; George F. Von Ostermann, Sturgis, S. D.; A. W. Gird, Rapid City, S. D.; D. W. Boyton, J. P. Mincher, Carroll, Neb.; R. G. Goodall, Beemer, Neb.; T. J. Pickett, Wahoo, Neb.; H. H. Blair, Elk Point, S. D.; F. A. Spafford, Flandreau, S. D.; R. D. Kelly and wife, Fremont, Neb.; Ross L. Hammond, Fremont, Neb.

British Columbia is Coming.

The list of foreign states which will participate in the Transmississippi and International Exposition is likely to be increased by the addition of British Columbia. A special commissioner of the exposition, J. F. Knapp, was sent into that province of Canada several days ago to endeavor to secure the active interest of the people of that section in the exposition, and a telegram from him, dated Victoria, B. C., received by the Department of Publicity and Promotion, indicates that prompt action has been taken in the matter. The telegram was as follows: "British Columbia Board of Trade has taken favorable action with the provincial government. The minister of mines has taken the matter up with Dr. Dawson of Ottawa, and West Kootenay district, and representation will be had."

Missouri Moving Steadily.

Reports from Missouri are to the effect that the exhibit of that state will be much better than was anticipated. The commission is still collecting money and is receiving contributions from all parts of the state. The Horticultural society promises that its exhibit will excel that of California or any other state, the mines exhibit will be the largest ever made by the state and the agricultural exhibit will be excellent. The women's exhibit is in charge of a committee of women, with Mrs. Scammon of Kansas City at the head, and it is said the exhibit will be an excellent one. Chairman Sterrett of the commission expresses the conviction that the state exhibit will be a most creditable one.

OMAHA INVADED BY WORKERS

Army of Exposition Commissioners Enters the City Peacefully.

TWO BIG STATES AND A TERRITORY

Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas Send Representatives to Make Arrangements for Participation in the Great Fair.

Omaha is invaded today by an army of Exposition commissioners, two states and one territory being represented in the ranks. Ohio from the east sends a full body of representative citizens, who are here to arrange for the Buckeye state's part in the great fair. Oklahoma, the baby of the union, isrepresented​ by two of the territory's pushers, who will not return home until all its dealings with the exposition are complete. Texas, the mammonth​ empire of the southwest, has but a single representative, but he has full authority to make all arrangements for the state's participation.

The Ohio Exposition commission has come in a body to visit Omaha and see what has been done in the way of preparation for the exposition and to determine just what shall be done in the way of preparation for the exposition and to determine just what shall be done by the official representatives of the Buckeye state regarding state participation in the exposition.

The commission comprises these members, all of whom are here: Hon. Harry C. Mason of Cleveland, speaker of the house of representatives and chairman of the commission; Hon. S. B. Rankin of South Charleston, member of the lower house of the legislature; Senator H. E. Valentine of Bucyrus and Senator W. G. Brorein of Buckland.

The visitors arrived over the Wabash at noon and were met at Council Bluffs by Major Clarkson, who escorted them across the river and to the hotel. Here they were entertained at luncheon by President Wattles, Major Clarkson, John L. Webster and Howard H. Baldrige.

Before going in to luncheon Chariman​ Mason stated that absolutely nothing has been done by the commission in the way of preparation for an exhibit or in the way of preparation for an exhibit or in the way of official action of any kind. He said the commission had come to Omaha in a body to look over the ground and see what the situation requires and to act accordingly. The commission has an appropriation of $3,000 to cover its expenses but has no funds to use in the way of preparing exhibits. Considerable interest has been taken in Ohio by number of the manufacturers and the duty of representing the state in this respect will be left to them.

The Ohio commission will probably remain in the city for a day or two. It was the intention of the exposition management to escort the visitors to the exposition grounds, but the driving rain made such a course impracticable and this will be left until a later time.

OKLAHOMA JOINS THE BAND.

J. C. Post of Kingfisher, chairman of the Oklahoma Exposition commission, and C. M. Points of Shawnee, a member of the commission, are in the city to make arrangements for space for the Oklahoma exhibit in the main buildings of the exposition. They visited the grounds together and inspected the buildings and will complete all arrangements for the necessary space before returning home tomorrow.

Mr. Post takes a great interest in the exposition largely on account of the fact that he was a resident of Nebraska for many years. He is a brother of Judge A. M. Post of Columbus, and was associated with him in the banking business in York for several years, afterwards serving in the office of Lorenzo Crounse when the latter was collector of internal revenue for this district.

Mr. Post says Oklahoma will make a showing that will completely surprise people who are not familiar with the conditions prevailing in that section. Displays will be made of agricultural and horticultural products and minerals, including coal, iron, building stone and oil.

"We are going to surprise everybody with our display," said Mr. Post with a confident smile. "We will show all kinds of small fruits, including cherries, peaches, pears, etc. Our oats and small grain will be ready to harvest in about ten or fifteen days, and we will make a specialty of fresh grain, which we will renew every few days and keep always fresh. Our cotton we will handle the same way. One feature of our display will be a big Indian tepee with a lot of relics, etc., intended to show the conditions in our territory nine years ago compared with the conditions that exist today.

"We have all the money we need," continued Mr. Post. "We get some from the government and the railroads and private subscriptions make up a fund sufficient to meet all our necessities. Before Mr. Points and I return home we will make all arrangements for our space and we will be here on time with our exhibit."

TEXAS COMMISSION IN TOWN.

C. S. Penfield of Houston, Tex., chairman of the rejuvenated Texas Exposition commission, is in the city to close up all arrangements for the extensive exhibit of the resources of the Lone Star state which will be made by the new commission. Mr. Penfield is a former resident of Nebraska, and takes a great interest in the success of the exposition and in the proper representation of his adopted state in the eyes of the world. He says the state will have a magnificent exhibit of all the diversified resources of the largest state in the union, and the money is all in hand to carry out the projected arrangements.

The space reserved by Vice President Johnson for the Texas exhibit covers 2,8000 square feet, and Mr. Penfield is endeavoring to increase the amount. The exhibit will include everything produced or found in the natural state in Texas, including fruits of all kinds, sugar, building stone, tobacco, wool, cotton, canaigre and tanning materials, fiber plants of all kinds, clays, kaolin, etc. A very large part of this material is already in hand and this will be supplemented by new material of all kinds, making one of the most complete and extensive exhibits ever attempted by the state. Mr. Penfield says the state has never made any very great display at former expositions, and the new commission is determined that the present occasion shall be a record-breaker and establish a precedent that cannot be excelled.

The people of Houston and the members of the San Antonio & Aransas Pass Railway Immigration association have raised the money necessary to make this display after repeated failures on the part of the former commission to accomplish anything tangible and the great bulk of the exhibit will be such as is contributed by the southern part of Texas.

ORGANIZING A HOSPITAL CORPS.

Dr. Lee Preparing for the Summer's Emergency Campaign.

Medical Director Lee will soon organize the medical staff for the emergency hospital on the exposition grounds and by the time the hospital is completed the staff will be prepared to take possession. The staff, so far as decided on, will include Dr. Stewart Campbell, surgeon-in-chief, Miss Nelson, head nurse and matron. There will also be two ambulance surgeons and as many assistant nurses as the necessity of the case may require. These will not be appointed until the occasion for their employment arises.

The cottage on Twentieth street just north of the Administration building, will be utilized as offices, sleeping rooms for the attendants, etc., and an addition is being constructed which will be used for the hospital. This will be arranged in the most modern manner and supplied with all apparatus necessary for emergency cases, with accommodations for twenty patients. This will be an emergency hospital and patients will be kept there only so long as may be absolutely necessary.

WARM PRAISE FROM AN EXPERT.

Manager of the Streets of Cairo Compliments the Exposition.

Icilio Ninci, manager of the Streets of Cairo, has arrived in the city and will remain until the close of the exposition. Immediately after reaching town Mr. Ninci visited the exposition grounds and spent several hours there, visiting the buildings and getting a general idea of the situation.

Mr. Ninci comes from Egypt, where he has been during the last few months, working up attractions and features for the concession of which he is the manager. He is an Egyptian by birth, and has been in the show business since the World's fair. At that great show he was manager of the Streets of Cairo. Speaking of the Transmississippi Exposition, he said: "It is going to be a great show, and will surpass any ever held, barring, of course, the World's fair. In many respects, however, it will be better than that. People are learning how to conduct expositions, and the work done at Omaha shows that the managers of this exposition have profited by the experience of others.

"Though smaller, the buildings at the Transmississippi Exposition, are better, more beautiful and better accommodated for a fine display than were those at Chicago. The style of the buildings at Omaha is supurb​ and everything indicates that it will be a magnificent exhibit. People all over the country are talking about the exposition in this city and my judgment is that right from the start the crowds will be enormous. The attendance ought to be double that at Atlanta, San Francisco or Nashville.

"Regarding the Streets of Cairo, everything will be new and clean. Nothing will be exhibited here that has been seen before. There will be any number of new features and on the whole I expect that we will have the most interesting exhibit on the grounds. All of our people will be native Egyptians, who will come here direct from their native country. They will   pursue their native arts and will conduct themselves the same as at home. We will have the Egyptian theater, where the Egyptian dances and plays will be put on. There will be the camels, the donkeys, the booths and the smoking parlors. It is our purpose to make the concession an exact reproduction of one of the fashionable streets in an Egyptian city."

Notes of the Exposition.

John M. Biddle of the State department and J. B. Boykin of the Interior department, have arrived in the city to take charge of the installation of the exhibits to be made by these departments in the Government building.

Conard & Jones company of West Grove, Pa., have telegraphed to the Department of Exhibits for space on the bluff tract for several beds of fine varieties of cannas.

E. A. Sherman, editor of the Cedar Rapids (Ia.) Record, is in the city to make arrangements for the meeting of the Iowa Editorial association, which meets in Omaha June 23.

FOREIGN EXHIBITS ARE COMING

Customs House Gets Notice of the Shipment of Many Valuable Exposition Consignments.

"It makes me laugh to hear people say that there will be few foreign exhibits at the exposition," declared Charles D. Woodworth, deputy surveyor of customs. "We are receiving notice every day of consignments of stuff to the exposition, and their value runs up into thousands of dollars."

All the foreign exhibits must pass through the local office, but its labors will be greatly thrown upon the shoulders of James R. Dunn, deputy surveyor of customs. Mr. Dunn has arrived in the city with his family and is quartered at the Millard. He will find plenty of work on his hands. He will keep a record of all exhibits received from foreign countries, and must check them up frequently during the exposition. Whenever an article is missing—whether lost, stolen or sold—duty must be at once paid on it.

ELKHORN VALLEY EDITORS

Exposition Managers Entertain the North Nebraska Newspaper Men.

EXCURSIONISTS LOOK OVER THE GROUNDS

Inspection of the Buildings Followed by Luncheon, at Which Ideas Concerning the Press Are Exchanged.

The luncheon in honor of the visiting editors of the Elkhorn valley yesterday was presided over by President Wattles and seated on either side of him at the principal tables were General Manager Bidwell and General Passenger Agent Buchanan of the Elkhorn road, Manager Rosewater, Director Hitchcock and Prof. F. W. Taylor, representing the exposition.

Manager Rosewater of the Department of Publicity and Promotion was the first speaker. He indulged in a few personal remarks of a joking nature and then proceeded to express the lasting obligations of the exposition management to the press of the United States, and particularly to the newspapers of Nebraska, for the substantial support the exposition had received at the hands of the editors. He asserted that this exposition is not a country fair or a state fair but a world's fair, in which the resources of the great transmississippi region are to be shown to the whole world. Thirty-three states and four territories have officially recognized the exposition, and in bringing about this condition of affairs, Mr. Rosewater said, the country press might have been "sponged" on, but if so it had been done in the interest of Nebraska and the transmississippi region and not for the benefit of Omaha. The country press had responded nobly to the calls made upon it, and Mr. Rosewater said the exposition intends to recognize the services rendered. Regarding certain complaints which had been made to the effect that the country editors had been unable to learn how they were to be treated, he said this matter had only been definitely settled within the last few days and he proceeded to explain the plan that has been adopted in this connection. A ticket will be issued to each editor of a paper which has favored the exposition. This ticket will admit the editor and his wife and will be good during June, or, if the editor is unable to come to Omaha during that month, the ticket will be honored at any subsequent time during the entire time of the stay of the editor in the city.

TRUTH WILL DO.

Mr. Rosewater suggested that when the editors return home after this brief visit to the exposition grounds they could truthfully say the Nebraska has done nobly and challenge the world to come and see what has been done. It would be only necessary to tell the truth to convince people that a failure to come to the exposition would be a life-long subject of regret.

The speaker then entered upon a brief personal explanation of repeated charges which have been made from certain sources to the effect that The Omaha Bee is being paid for space. He briefly related the main points regarding the special illustrated edition of The Weekly Bee, which is to be issued next week, an issue of 200,000, with a four-page supplement on heavy paper and copiously illustrated, for which The Bee is to be paid $3,200 in exposition stock. He said he was in favor of giving the World-Herald the same privilege on exactly the same terms.

In closing Mr. Rosewater said the Department of Publicity greatly appreciates the help of the country press and intends to do everything possible for the benefit of the editors of the newspapers of the state.

General Manager Bidwell was the next speaker and spoke briefly regarding the power of the state press. He said it was the best medium through which those interested in the progress of the state could best bring about that object and he referred to the success of the exposition as a result brought about, largely, through the support given the movement by the newspapers. He then spoke of the great resources of the state and how these may be developed by concerted effort on the part of all concerned.

G. M. Hitchcock was next introduced and he spoke quite briefly regarding the importance of the exposition to the interests of the state and the energetic support which had been given the enterprise by the press of the state.

F. G. Simmons of Seward was called on for a talk on behalf of the guests of the occasion. He briefly expressed the thanks of those present for the magnificent manner in which they had been entertained, and said that every newspaper man in the state is thoroughly interested in the success of the exposition. Regarding the proposed plan of providing for the accommodation of visiting editors Mr. Simmons had something to say. He said he was a member of the executive committee of the press association of the state and as much had been instrumental in preparing a plan which embodied the views of the committee and, he believed, of the state association, regarding the courtesies to which the editors of the state are entitled for their support of the exposition. He said the editors expect to pay for everything they receive and do not regard free admissions as favors. The plan outlined by Manager Rosewater, he said, did not meet with his approval, and he did not believe it would be satisfactory to the other members of the committee or to many of the association. He said he thought the plan presented by the press executive committee would be much more acceptable. Mr. Simmons warned the exposition management that there are many editors in the state who are simply waiting an opportunity to stick a knife into the vitals of the exposition if the opportunity offers, and he said the plan now proposed would simply afford this opportunity.

PASSES FOR EDITORS.

President Wattles said in reply to the remarks of Mr. Simmons that the exposition expects to grant everything within reason to the editors of the country press, and he said the least that could be done would be to give to the editor of every paper which helps the exposition free admission for himself and wife at any time they may choose to come to the exposition. Before taking his seat Mr. Wattles read a letter from Governor Holcomb regarding the proclamation he will soon issue making June 1 a state holiday in honor of the exposition.

G. F. Kenower of Wisner and General Passenger Agent Buchanan made a few brief remarks and the assemblage dispersed, the majority of the visitors taking the 3 o'clock train for their homes, General Manager Bidwell having held the train twenty minutes for their accommodation.

Exposition Notes.

The Western Union Telegraph company will place two clocks in each of the main buildings. The clocks will be connected by telegraph with the Washington observatory and will be strictly correct at all times.

Governor Holcomb has notified President Wattles that within a few days he will issue his proclamation making June 1 a public holiday in the state of Nebraska.

Secretary A. T. Macdonald of the Colorado Exposition commission writes to the Department of Publicity and Promotion that the prospects for an excellent display from that state are becoming more flattering every day, and it is now assured that the fondest hopes of the most enthusiastic exposition advocate will be more than realized by the Centennial state. All departments are working most energetically and everything will be ready on time.

British Columbia is Coming.

The list of foreign states which will participate in the Transmississippi and International Exposition is likely to be increased by the addition of British Columbia. A special commissioner of the exposition, J. F. Knapp, was sent into that province of Canada several days ago to endeavor to secure the active interest of the people of that section in the exposition, and a telegram from him, dated Victoria, B. C., received by the Department of Publicity and Promotion, indicates that prompt action has been taken in the matter. The telegram was as follows: "British Columbia Board of Trade has taken favorable action with the provincial government. The minister of mines has taken the matter up with Dr. Dawson of Ottawa, and West Kootenay district, and representation will be had."

Fifty Ticket Books.

The new commutation admission tickets were placed on sale yesterday. These books each contain fifty admission tickets to the exposition, the cost of the book being $12.50. The books are not transferable. They may be obtained by application to Secretary Wakefield by mail or in person. These tickets are issued to supply the demand for books with less than 100 admissions and will not be on sale after May 20.

Women's Committee Incomplete.

The executive committee of the Bureau of Entertainment held a session yesterday for the purpose of selecting the forty women, who, with the ten constituting the executive committee, will form the bureau. The work proceeded slowly and an adjournment was taken before it was completed. The date of the next meeting was not fixed.

WHAT EDITORS WILL GET.

At the editorial banquet in Omaha Tuesday Manager Rosewater's plans for rewarding the generosity of the press were made public, having been adopted by the executive committee. The rule provides for giving weekly papers in the transmississippi states, who have favored the exposition, a pass for the publisher and his wife good until June 30, and makes the following liberal apportionment to daily papers such as the Press: "Dailies in cities of less than 50,000, pass for an editor and wife, good for ten days at any period during the exposition."

Ye Gods! How can such generosity be accounted for. Just think of it, a pass good for ten days to pay for probably $500 worth of advertising space.

Gall! Well, we say yes, and intend heading the list of publishers who will refuse such a liberal gift and should we desire to be roped in by the Rosewater exposition, we will pay 50 cents for that privilege.

Is this great exposition to exceed that of the World's fair at Chicago in 1893? We think not, and the management of that, the greatest of expositions in the world's history, paid for their advertising space and did not want the earth. All publishers were treated alike.—Nebraska City Press.

This is a sample brick of the missiles thrown at the exposition at the instigation of the Omaha World-Herald. Had the editor of the Nebraska City Press been present at the banquet to which he refers he would not have made such a flagrant misstatement. The rules adopted by the exposition management for press privileges were not made public at that gathering, but were given out in a distorted and garbled form through the local yellow kid fakery, which is exerting itself to the utmost to create a feeling to hostility to the exposition in every possible way.

In order that further misrepresentation shall cease The Bee presents the correct version of the rules governing the issue of editorial passes to Nebraska papers.

1. Each weekly paper that has favored the exposition with advertising will be furnished with one pass for the publisher or editor and another for his wife or accompanying lady, good during the month of June, and, if not used during that month, exchangeable for term passes during the period when the editor and his lady may be in attendance upon the exposition.

2. The editor of every Nebraska daily that has advertised the exposition will be furnished with a pass for himself and wife, good during the entire exposition.

The same ranks will apply to editors in the states of Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, South Dakota, Wyoming, Southern Minnesota and Northern Missouri. Editors of papers in cities under 50,000 population outside of the territory named will receive passes good for ten days at any time during the exposition, and those in cities of 50,000 and over will be on the same plane as those of Nebraska, with the addition of passes for their managing editors.

This is the most liberal treatment the press has ever received at the hands of any great exposition and nobody has taken exceptions to it except those who are seeking a pretext for knifing the exposition. The sandbaggers, however, may rest assured that the exposition has reached the stage and magnitude that places it out of the reach of harm from their paper pellets.

Incidentally and for the benefit of the disgruntled The Bee most emphatically contradicts the assertion that all publishers and editors were treated alike at the World's fair, or that the World's fair paid newspaper publishers for advertising space. It is notorious that the weeklies, even of Illinois, failed to receive recognition at the World's fair and the smaller dailies had to content themselves with trip passes secured after laborious importuning. The same is true in great measure of the expositions at San Francisco, Atlanta and Nashville. Editors of the transmississippi region [?]

FOR A DIRECTOR GENERAL

Matter Brought Before the Exposition Board for Consideration.

DEFINITE ACTION COMES NEXT MONDAY

Imperative Necessity of One Head to Supervise and Direct the Affairs of the Great Transmississippi Show.

At the call of seventeen directors a special meeting of the board of directors of the exposition was held yesterday afternoon for the purpose of considering the matter of the appointment of a director general for the enterprise. Although the call for the meeting was not filed with Secretary Wakefield until 12:30 p. m. yesterday, and telephonic notice of the meeting did not reach some of the directors until after 3 o'clock, such was the general interest in the vital question to be presented for consideration that twenty-seven directors were present when the roll was called.

The call for the meeting was as follows: "A special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Transmississippi and International Exposition is hereby called on Friday, May 6, at 4 p. m., at the offices of said exposition, Paxton building, to take action relative to the appointment of a director general." It was signed by Alvin Saunders, A. C. Smith, C. E. Yost, G. H. Payne, John C. Wharton, Henry A. Thompson, Thomas Kilpatrick, C. F. Weller, E. Dickinson, George F. Bidwell, E. W. Lee, R. S. Wilcox, Frank Murphy, L. H. Korty, E. C. Price, F. M. Youngs and C. W. Lyman.

Before the call for the meeting was read the president directed the secretary to read a communication which was handed him. This proved to be a letter from General Manderson, withdrawing the resignation as a director tendered by him at the last meeting of the board. This action of General Manderson was taken at the urgent solicitation of a number of the most influential directors and the reading of the communication was greeted with hearty applause and expressions of approval.

The call for the special meeting was then read and the president asked for the further pleasure of the meeting.

Mr. Montgomery was the first one on his feet and he said he was opposed to any undue haste on the part of the board, saying that it would be unwise to take hasty action on a matter of such great importance. He urged the shortness of the notice as a reason why the meeting should adjourn to some future time, in order that a full attendance of the board might be obtained and the matter given careful consideration. He closed by moving an adjournment until Monday next at 4 o'clock.

Mr. Yost suggested that the executive committee should present a plan for the centralization of power in one man or say that they do not want such a plan, and he amended the motion to provide that when the board meets Monday the committee shall present a report on these lines.

Discuss the Subject.

Mr. Rosewater said the board had already to unload too much of its own responsibility on the executive committee and he urged that the matter be discussed informally, in order that it may be better understood when the board meets on Monday.

This idea prevailed and the members of the executive committee who were present were called on to express their views, Managers Lindsey, Bruce and Rosewater being the only ones present.

Mr. Lindsey said the executive committee had been told continually that it was doing well; if it should be proposed to now place all the power in one man's hands he would oppose it.

Mr. Bruce said he had been serving twenty-one months to the best of his ability and if he had failed the board was responsibly for electing him on the executive committee. He said he did not want any assistance except that of his co-workers of the last twenty-one months.

General Manderson said the matter under consideration was one of grave import and should be decided only after due consideration and a full attendance of members of the board. He said there was another matter which should also receive careful consideration—the question of cash premiums for live stock exhibits. He referred briefly to the importance of the live stock industry to this section of the country and then turned again to the matter of a director general. He said the question was one which would not down. The board thought it had settled the matter some months ago, but it did not seem to be any nearer a solution[?]

He complimented the executive committee on the efficient manner in which a thankless task had been accomplished, but there now seemed to be a great difference of opinion in the executive committee with reference to the necessity for a director general. He said he thought it was about time the matter was brought before the whole board and each member of the committee called upon to give the reasons for his position. He said that he did not desire to oust the members of the committee or to curtail their powers in any way, but he simply desired to relieve the committee of the burdens imposed on it and to make a more symmetrical organization. He called attention to the fact that the representatives of the people who will be here to see the exposition are now on the ground and more are coming every day and he deprecated the necessity of furnishing these people with grounds for reports that the exposition management is wrangling.

Goes Over Until Monday.

General Manderson said he would have a poor opinion of a member of the executive committee who would resign in case the board decided that a director general is necessary. He had heard several statements of that kind, he said, but hoped they were not true.

In conclusion General Manderson insisted that the executive committee should formulate some plan for enlarging the powers of General Superintendent Foster, if he should be decided to be the man to be vested with more power.

Mr. Rosewater said there had been no contention in the executive committee regarding the appointment of a director general and no proposition to appoint one. He reviewed the events preceding the appointment of Mr. Foster as general superintendent and said that since that appointment there seemed to have been a combination to curtail his powers as much as possible. This had been carried so far that Foster was a mere figurehead, without a shadow of authority in any department. This state of affairs had forced the conviction that this could not continue during the exposition. "If Foster is not competent to fulfill enlarged duties he should be dismissed," said Mr. Rosewater, "but the present state of affairs cannot be allowed to continue without seriously menacing the exposition. Already there are three different departments on the grounds and soon there will be five. The employes of each of these departments are supreme and the result is a conflict of authority which is causing trouble and delay." The speaker detailed a number of circumstances showing the practical operation of such organization and declared that the only solution was to have some one in general power. This officer should have control, under the executive committee, over all the men on the grounds. Mr. Rosewater declared that no business could be conducted successfully without an executive head and such an officer in a business house or a railroad or any other great business does not abrogate the powers of the officers or directors.

A desultory discussion followed these statements of the situation, the consensus of opinion being that the time had arrived for the concentration of authority and responsibility in one man who is to direct and supervise affairs of all the departments represented by subordinates on the grounds and the motion to adjourn until Monday afternoon was then carried without a dissenting voice.

NEBRASKA'S EDUCATIONAL EXHIBIT

Active Work Commenced on Arrangement of Booths for the Display.

Active work has been commenced on the booths for the Nebraska educational exhibit and the manner in which the work is laid out gives assurance that in setting and extent, at least, the Nebraska exhibit will be a memorable one. The exhibit will occupy all the north and east sides of the gallery of the big Manufactures building and the east half of the south gallery. The gallery is thirty feet in width all around and this space will be divided in such a way that a long series of rooms will extend through the middle of the portion to be occupied by this exhibit. This long room will be eighteen feet in width and an aisle six feet in width will extend along the sides of the room. The long space thus enclosed will be subdivided into rooms sixteen feet in width by short walls extending out from either side, these short walls forming a passageway ten feet in width entirely through the enclosure.

The walls forming this series of small rooms will be thirteen feet in height and on these will be displayed the cardboards to which will be attached the specimens of school work. The wall next to the gallery railing will be elaborately decorated with flags and bunting above a point seven feet from the floor. The section of the exhibit booth directly opposite the main entrance to the building will be in the form of a series of arches rising above the height of the other portions of the wall and on these arches will be the name of the exhibit.

The central portion of the east gallery will be devoted to the exhibit to be made by the University of Nebraska and this is marked by a series of arches similar to those heretofore referred to, but on a more modified scale.

The erection of these booths is in charge of Prof. C. W. Stuart, assistant to State Superintendent Jackson. He has four men employed and every effort is being made to push the work to completion before the exhibits begin to arrive in large numbers. The exhibit of the Lincoln Normal university was the first to arrive, having been received early in the week, but the great bulk of the material is not wanted before the 10th inst., by which time it is expected that the booths will be ready for mounting the exhibits.

OHIO MEN HOPE TO HAVE EXHIBIT.

Sorry that the State Legislature Made No Appropriation.

The four members of the Ohio Exposition commission who spent the greater part of three days in Omaha looking into exposition matters returned home yesterday afternoon. Before leaving the commissioners, one and all, assured the officers of the exposition that they intend doing everything in their power to atone for the great delay on the part of their state and for the lack of an appropriation. They continually expressed regret that the great importance of the exposition had not been fully appreciated by the legislature before adjournment, as an appropriation sufficient for a fine exhibit might have been secured without difficulty. In the absence of any appropriation the commissioners announced their intention of interesting the state officers and the numerous state institutions in the matter of making an exhibit of an educational and historical nature. The State university, of which Chancellor Canfield, formerly of the University of Nebraska, is the head, was thought to be an excellent starting point, and the commissioners expressed great confidence in their ability to collect an exhibit such as they named which would be an attractive display.

The Ohio club, which was recently formed in this city, is considering plans for the erection of a clubhouse on the exposition grounds and if this project is successful the Ohio commission will make its exhibit in this building. In case the movement does not succeed the commission will engage space in the gallery of the Manufactures building for the display.

More Space for Missouri.

Prof. J. W. Damel of Jefferson City, Mo., member of the Missouri Exposition commission and chairman of the committee on the educational and industrial exhibits of the negroes of the state, is in the city today to secure additional space and make final arrangement for installing exhibits. He says that there is no doubt that his committee and the whole commission will be able to make a creditable showing for imperial Missouri in the exposition.

ILLINOIS COMMISSION IN TOWN.

Eleven Members Come to Look Over the Local Situation.

Eleven members of the Illinois Exposition commission are in the city, having come for the purpose of looking over the Illinois building, now almost completed, and making such further arrangements for the arrangement of the building and for the exhibits, which will be made under the direction of the commission, as may be necessary.

Those constituting the party are Chairman W. H. Harper of the executive committee and Commissioners F. W. Peck, C. I. Peck, C. H. Gould, Hall T. McCormick, C. C. Williams, H. R. Wilson, J. R. Key and C. A. Malbry, all of Chicago; C. H. Keeler of Dixon and W. B. Brinton of Peru.

The party went to the exposition grounds with Major Clarkson and took great pleasure in inspecting the progress which has been made in all parts of the of the grounds. The beauty of the nearly completed grounds was seen to the best advantage under the bright morning sun, and the visitors expressed themselves as being delighted with the impressive sight.

More Concessions Granted.

Three small concessions represent the work of the executive committee yesterday afternoon. E. T. Durland was granted a concession for a haunted swing; Mrs. Anna G. Conrad of Colorado Springs was granted the right to sell pressed wild flowers, and C. A. Binford was awarded the privilege of selling cold lunches on the bluff tract.

CONFRONTED BY A CONDITION

General Manderson struck the keynote of the exposition situation when he declared at the meeting of the board of directors that the appointment of a director general, like Banquo's ghost, will not down. The imperative necessity of a supreme head to supervise and manage the active operations of the exposition must be patent to every business man who has ever had anything to do with handling large numbers of employes.

As the exposition is now organized there is bound to be clashing of authority and constant confusion that must work injury to the enterprise. Within a few days there will be salaried employes and subordinate officials on the ground deriving their authority from five different department heads. For example, the gatekeepers are to be under orders of the manager of the Ways and Means department, while the watchmen and guards will look for orders to the head of the Department of Grounds and Buildings. The janitors inside of the buildings are to be appointed by and under control of the Department of Exhibits and so are the men engaged in the work of installation. The janitors outside of the exposition buildings are to be employed under and directed by the Department of Grounds and Buildings. The inspectors of the amusement section are to be appointed by and under orders of the Department of Concessions, while the ticket sellers, counters, cashiers and collectors of concession percentages are to be under the Department of Ways and Means. The porters and guides are to come under the direction of the manager of the Department of Buildings and Grounds, while those employed in the bonded warehouse and freight storehouse are to be under the manager of the Department of Transportation.

NEBRASKA'S EDUCATIONAL EXHIBIT

Active Work Commenced on Arrangement of Booths for the Display.

Active work has been commenced on the booths for the Nebraska educational exhibit and the manner in which the work is laid out gives assurance that in setting and extent, at least, the Nebraska exhibit will be a memorable one. The exhibit will occupy all the north and east sides of the gallery of the big Manufactures building and the east half of the south gallery. The gallery is thirty feet in width all around and this space will be divided in such a way that a long series of rooms will extend through the middle of the portion to be occupied by this exhibit. This long room will be eighteen feet in width and an aisle six feet in width will extend along the sides of the room. The long space thus enclosed will be subdivided into rooms sixteen feet in width by short walls extending out from either side, these short walls forming a passageway ten feet in width entirely through the enclosure.

The walls forming this series of small rooms will be thirteen feet in height and on these will be displayed the cardboards to which will be attached the specimens of school work. The wall next to the gallery railing will be elaborately decorated with flags and bunting above a point seven feet from the floor. The section of the exhibit booth directly opposite the main entrance to the building will be in the form of a series of arches rising above the height of the other portions of the wall and on these arches will be the name of the exhibit.

The central portion of the east gallery will be devoted to the exhibit to be made by the University of Nebraska and this is marked by a series of arches similar to those heretofore referred to, but on a more modified scale.

The erection of these booths is in charge of Prof. C. W. Stuart, assistant to State Superintendent Jackson. He has four men employed and every effort is being made to push the work to completion before the exhibits begin to arrive in large numbers. The exhibit of the Lincoln Normal university was the first to arrive, having been received early in the week, but the great bulk of the material is not wanted before the 10th inst., by which time it is expected that the booths will be ready for mounting the exhibits.

GATHERING OF THE VETERANS.

Prepare to Come to the Exposition and Go Into Camp.

"Veteran Soldiers' Week" will be one of the epochs in connection with the exposition. A joint meeting of committees appointed by the exposition and the state department of the Grand Army of the Republic has decided that a week shall be set aside when the old soldiers of both armies shall be given the right of way. The committees which have had this matter in charge are these: For the Grand Army of the Republic, B. R. Ball, S. K. Spalding and John H. Butler; for the exposition, Captain H. E. Palmer, C. E. Adams of Superior and Major T. S. Clarkson.

The exact date for this gathering of the heroes of the late unpleasantness has not been determined, it having been decided to fix a date when President McKinley will be in Omaha. When this date is learned the whole of that week will be designated as Old Soldiers' week and it is expected that thousands of the veterans will come to Omaha to visit the exposition and participate in the campfires and gatherings characteristic of the veterans. Reports have already been received from distant points of whole families who intend to drive to Omaha and camp in the neighborhood of the exposition in order to save railroad fare and hotel bills.

The only free accommodations which will be provided in connection with the coming of the old soldiers will be a piece of ground suitable for camping, where those who drive to town can pitch their tents and enjoy themselves to their hearts' content.

Another Band Would Come.

George C. Sellner of Omaha, special commissioner for the exposition to Honolulu, writes to the Department of Exhibits that [?]

GETTING READY TO OPEN

Work on the Exposition Grounds Being Rushed at Top Speed.

VERY LITTLE REMAINS TO BE DONE

Main Buildings Are Now Receiving Their Exhibits and the Smaller Structures Are Being Hurried Ahead.

Increased activity is the watchword at the exposition grounds as the time approaches when the gates must be thrown open to the world and the great industrial exposition of the west stand on dress parade for the inspection of all comers. Great as has been the efforts in the last year to push the work of preparation, these efforts are now being redoubled. Large gangs of men are working in every portion of the spacious grounds, adding the finishing touches here and there to landscape work and to buildings, and this numerous army has recently been augmented by carpenters and decorators in the interior of the buildings, who are preparing the booths for the exhibitors.

Thousands of people visit the grounds every day to admire the beauty everywhere apparent. The few pleasant days just passed have been taken advantage of to the fullest extent and the portions of the grounds open to vehicles have been thronged with carriages of every description. The main court being closed to vehicles, people are compelled to go afoot, but this has proved no drawback, and a procession of people is constantly passing around the lagoon or through the buildings.

The water has been turned into the lagoon and the big basin is nearly full. The supply came from a four-inch pipe near the east end of the lagoon and the great volume flowing from this pipe was sufficient to fill it in a remarkably short time. The sheet piling about the lagoon has been hidden behind a coating of cement made to resemble a stone wall and the appearance of the lagoon is greatly improved thereby.

The paving of the broad walks between the lagoon and the buildings of the main court is being pushed with the greatest possible speed. The rainy weather of last week made it impossible to prosecute this work, but the time thus lost is being rapidly made up. The paving is completed west of Twentieth street and a start was made at the east end of the main court. This paving has reached the west ends of the Mines and Machinery buildings and there remains but a comparatively small amount to be completed.

Buildings Yet to Be Finished.

The only work of construction now in progress in the main court comprises the Arch of States, the east colonnades, the park colonnades and the Girls' and Boys' building. All of these are in an advanced stage and all will be completed within a very few days. The other buildings are completed and in all except the Art building the work of installing the exhibits has commenced. The big trusses for the bridges which are to span the lagoon at Twentieth street have arrived on the ground and the bridges will be completed in short order.

In the Agriculture building five exhibits are in course of preparation. The Nebraska Exposition commission, Douglas county, the Rock Island railway, the Cotton Belt railway and the state of Montana are actively at work preparing their exhibits. All are erecting elaborate booths and preparing for displays which will be works of art.

In the Manufactures building the gallery is being elaborately decorated by the force preparing for the state educational exhibit. On the main floor booths are being erected for a number of exhibitors.

In the Mines building the state of Montana and Utah are the only ones to make their appearance. A large number of other states have sent notice that they are on the way with their exhibits and they will arrive during the coming week.

The Bluff tract is daily growing more beautiful. People who have not visited this portion of the grounds since last fall or during the winter are amazed at the change which has been wrought in its appearance. The trees of all sizes and varieties are taking on leaves and the grass sod which was sown about three weeks ago has covered the entire tract with a luxuriant carpet of rich green.

The Horticulture building is nearly completed and the great beauty of this handsome building is the source of many remarks on the part of visitors. The Iowa building is making remarkable headway. The main portion of the building has already reached the cornice line and it seems assured that the building will be completed by May 20, as provided in the contract for its construction. The Council Bluffs wigwam, close to the Iowa building, has reached the lower part of the second story.

Up on the north tract the Agricultural Implement and Transportation building and the Dairy and Apiary buildings are all in a state bordering very closely on completion.

From end to end of the Midway everything is activity. Every concessionaire is bending all his energies to complete his buildings on time and there is every prospect that all will succeed.

WORKING OUT THE PROGRAM.

Plans for the Educational Convention Being Matured.

Work on the program of the Transmississippi Educational convention that convenes on June 28 is progressing and that part which refers to the conference of colleges and secondary schools is as follows:

General Subject, Administration—Three twenty-minute papers: "Boards of Control: How to be Chosen and Tenure of Office; Revision of Present Methods of Election," Chancellor McDowell, University of Denver. "Localization of Authority in Internal Supervision and Management; Relation of Superintendent, President or Principal to Boards of Control and Also to Faculties; Responsibility of Corps of Instruction in General Direction of Schools," President R. H. Jesse, University of Missouri. "Administration as Effected by Public Opinion and Public Opinion as Effected by Wise Administration," President Charles Kendall Adams, University of Missouri. Discussion: President W. S. Chaplin, Washnigton​ University, St. Louis; President G. A. Gates, Iowa college; Prof. Henry C. King, Oberlin college.

General Subject, the Student in His Relation to Schedule Requirements—Four fifteen-minute papers: "Adolescence as Effecting the Amount of Work Demanded of Each Pupil," Dr. Arthur H. Daniels, University of Illinois. "Is Further Differentiation of Courses and Subjects Necessary in View of Varieties of Talent, Aptitude and Sex?" Dr. Arthur Allin, University of Colorado. "The Dominance of the Moral Ideal and Personal Culture in the Secondary School and College; the Elements of Unity and Simplicity in Courses of Study as Conducive to Thoroughness," Superintendent J. H. Van Sickle, Denver, Colo. Discussion: Principal Webster, East Side High school, Minneapolis.

General Subject, the Co-ordination of Secondary Schools Which Are Independent of Any Relation to the College," Superintendent A. F. Nightingale, Chicago. "The Secondary School a Preparatory School," Dr. Henry White Callahan, University of Colorado. "Is the College Course Essential to University or Post-Graduate Works?" President Edward D. Eaton, Beloit college, Wisconsin. Discussion: Principal Irwen Leviston, Omaha High school; Principal L. E. Wolfe, Kansas City High school.

Teachers of Manual and Industrial Training—Arranged by Gilbert B. Morrison, manual training, High school, Kansas City, Mo. Opening remarks: "An Ideal Curriculum with Manual Training—For the Manual Training High School," Charles J. Ling, Manual Training High school, Denver, Colo;" "For the Normal School," Charles R. Richards, Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, N.

Notes of the Exposition.

The city council of Butte has appropriated $150 for a special display of the city's resources and surroundings at the exposition.

A carload of paintings for the exposition was received Saturday at the custom house. They were shipped from Detroit and are bonded for $12,000.

Percy W. Johnson of the Missouri Exposition commission and John H. Rowe, J. Newton Nind and L. C. Pryor of the Minnesota building committee are in the city.

The action of Governor Budd of California in appointed M. H. De Young of the San Francisco Chronicle as director general of the California exhibit at the exposition is meeting with warm approval from the press and people of that state.

Specimens of work done by the pupils of the Carlisle (Pa.) Indian school are being boxed for shipment to the exposition. The collection includes specimens of work from all departments of the school and is said to be the best exhibit ever made by the school. Among the features will be a unique and picturesque lounge. It will be spread with Navajo blankets and four large pillows covered with Navajo weaving.

NO DIRECTOR GENERAL YET

Effort to Secure One Head for the Exposition Still Open.

DIRECTORS ARE UNABLE TO DECIDE

Heated Debate on Two Reports Results in the Matter Being Laid on the Table—Next Meeting on Friday.

The proposed enlargement of the powers of General Superintendent Foster formed the subject of a prolonged and stormy executive session of the Board of Directors of the exposition yesterday afternoon, without any action being taken on the matter. The meeting was an adjourned session of the special meeting of Friday of last week, when the executive committee was instructed to submit a report on the necessity for creating the position of director general or enlarging the powers of the present general superintendent. The proceedings followed the reading of the majority and minority reports were in executive session, but the closed windows and doors were all too thin to confine the sound of the heated arguments within the confines of the directors' room. The sound floated out over the transoms and under the doors, revealing the fact that the members of the board were indulging in the most animated discussion.

Twenty-seven directors were present when the meeting was called to order, but others drifted in and when the final vote was taken it showed the presence of thirty-three members of the board.

As soon as the meeting was called to order and before any other business had been presented General Manderson presented the following resolution and moved its adoption:

Resolved, That it is the sense of the directors of the Transmississippi Exposition that there should be no free list or passes to the exposition on and after June 1, 1898. The executive committee is directed to formulate rules by which none but exhibitors, employes in the actual discharge of their duties, reporters for the press when acting as such, officers and members of the executive committee is directed to formulate rules by which none but exhibitors, employes in the actual discharge of their duties, reporters for the press when acting as such, officers and members of the executive committee shall be admitted free to said grounds. It is the intent of this resolution that no stockholder or director shall be provided with free passes.

A brief discussion followed the introduction of this resolution, some of the executive committee opposing summary action on a resolution involving a matter which they had been considering for the last two months. The matter was finally referred to the executive committee with instructions to make a report on the matter at the regular meeting of the board Friday of this week.

Two Reports Are Offered.

This cleared the decks for action and Chairman Lindsey of the executive committee presented the following majority report of the executive committee regarding the matter referred to the committee at the special meeting of Friday.

Whereas, The executive committee fails to see the necessity for a director general, general superintendent or general manager and staff who, as is contemplated, shall exercise supreme executive authority in all matters pertaining to the exposition and, furthermore, believing that no such necessity exists, hereby resolves,

First, that it is unwise at this late date to change the general plan of organization and the present method of conducting the business of the exposition;

Second, that we recommend that the title of general superintendent be abolished and that said title of general superintendent be changed to that of superintendent of Department of Grounds and Buildings.

This was signed by Z. T. Lindsey, E. E. Bruce, W. N. Babcock and A. L. Reed.

The reading of the majority report was followed immediately by the reading of the following minority report, signed by Manager Rosewater:

To the Board of Directors: Gentlemen—I regret exceedingly my inability to concur in the conclusions reached by my colleagues of the executive committee relating to the future management and control of the exposition.

Every exposition held in this or any other country has had in supreme control one executive officer whose orders and directions all subordinates and employes were expected to respect and obey and whose functions for the general supervision of the active work of the exposition were limited only by such regulations as might from time to time be established by the board of directors, or its executive committee.

In my judgment the appointment of such an officer is imperatively demanded at this time. The consensus of opinion in this board of directors as far back as October, 1897, was that a director general or general manager was needed and a special committee appointed by your board in November, 1897, explicitly declared in favor of such an officer, but recommended only the appointment of a general superintendent of all departments, with the understanding that a general manager or director general should be appointed at the proper time, before the opening of the exposition. Having no reason to change my views and being firmly convinced that the failure to confer upon the general superintendent such authority was would give him ample power to enable him to control the affairs on the grounds has cost the exposition many thousands of dollars, I deem it my duty to recommend the enlargement of the powers of the general superintendent, under the title of general manager, subject only to such legislative restrictions by the executive committee as will keep the supervisory executive power in its hands.

Debate on the Reports.

As soon as this report was read Mr. Rosewater moved an executive session and the motion carried unanimously.

As soon as the doors were closed the debate commenced and for two and one-half hours there was no cessation in the flow of oratory. The discussion was general, but the principal talks were made by General Manderson, E. Rosewater, Alvin Saunders and J. C. Wharton in support of the enlargement of the powers of the general superintendent, and by G. M. Hitchcock, C. S. Montgomery and John L. Webster in support of the majority report, abolishing the position of general superintendent.

At an early stage of the proceedings General Manderson offered a resolution as a substitute for the majority and minority reports. This resolution provided for enlarging the powers of the general superintendent and giving him full control over the employes, with power to discharge them for cause.

When the discussion threatened to last all night a motion was made to lay the whole subject matter on the table. This was carried by 18 ayes and 15 noes.

The regular meeting of the board will occur Friday of this week and it is probable that the whole matter will come up again for further discussion and settlement.

NEVADA'S CAR LOAD OF EXHIBITS.

Material Coming Over the Union Pacific on a Special Train.

Nevada has arrived at the exposition in the person of Colonel H. B. Maxson of Reno, vice president of the exposition for his state, and "the whole thing" in exposition matters. The colonel has been working singly and alone to have Nevada well represented and he says he has a car load of mineral and agricultural products on the way. This car is attached to an "orange special" and is coming through on passenger time, being due to arrive in Omaha Wednesday night. Colonel Maxson says the car is decorated with a huge banner extending from end to end on both sides of the car on which, in letters two feet long, is the classic legend, "Nevada Exhibits go to the Omaha Exposition or Bust."

"I have 16,000 pounds of minerals and 5,000 pounds of agricultural products in that car," said Colonel Maxson, "and we are going to have an exhibit such as no other state will have. We haven't as much money to expend on our booth and surroundings as some of the states are spending for that purpose, but we will have some mineral displays that no other state will have."

Colonel Maxson was accompanied by M. A. West, who will remain in charge of the exhibit throughout the exposition. The work of installation will commence at once and Colonel Maxson promises a fine showing both in the Mines and Agriculture buildings.

CALLS A DIRECTORS' MEETING.

President Wattles Asks One to Consider Some Important Business.

A special meeting of the Board of Directors of the exposition has been called by President Wattles for Wednesday afternoon at 4 o'clock to consider the question of live stock premiums, the matter of a bond issue "and such other business as may be presented for consideration."

The question of offering cash premiums for live stock exhibits is one which has been discussed by the executive committee and has been pressing the directors for some time. So far as official action is concerned the exposition has offered as premiums on live stock medals and diplomas only. This is very unsatisfactory to the stockmen and great pressure has been brought to bear on the executive committee and on members of the Board of Directors to have cash premiums offered instead of medals. The members of the South Omaha Live Stock exchange and representatives of the packing houses have taken a hand in the matter and are urging the claims of the stockmen. In addition to this pressure it is now announced that the people of Kansas City are making great preparations for a live stock show this fall in which $75,000 in cash prizes is to be offered as a tempting bait to the breeders of fancy stock. Governor Glick, chairman of the Kansas Exposition commission, and a prominent stock breeder, when he was in Omaha recently urged the exposition management to offer cash premiums and presented a number of arguments in favor of such action.

Lets Some Contracts.

The executive committee yesterday afternoon awarded the contract for the construction of the Service Building. The carpenter work was awarded to Thomas Herd at his bid of $4,600 and the staff work was awarded to F. A. Sieffert for $1,431.

Bids were received for supplying 100 uniforms for the Exposition guards by Browning-King & Co., and the Continental Clothing company. Both bids were the same figures, being $9.50 for the suit, $1 for the hat. The contract was awarded to Browning-King & Co., the quality of the sample submitted being slightly superior. The uniform consists of navy blue sack coat and trousers. The coat will be double-breasted with brass buttons and trousers will have a white stripe on the outside seam. The hat is the United States army regulation campaign hat with brass ornaments.

Individual Competition Entries.

As the time approaches for the closing of the lists in the individual competition instituted by the Woman's Board of Managers to secure fine specimens of school work the entries are coming in rapidly. Every day witnesses the arrival of a large number of entries from every section and the number of tion promises to be a warmly contested affair.

Eighteen entries from the manual training department of Washington university, St. Louis, one of the oldest manual training schools in the country, constituted the largest showing made by any one institution. Among this material was a specimen of ornamental iron work showing a high degree of artistic skill. Several exhibits from the manual training department of the Indian school at Pierre, S. D., have also been received.

Starr's Ethnological Collection.

Arrangements are being made through the Bureau of Education for an exhibit of great interest and value from an educational standpoint. This is a collection of historic material belonging to Prof. Frederick Starr of the University of Chicago, consisting of metal work of the ancient Mexicans, musical instruments of the Aztecs, and a collection of instruments of warfare. All of this collection represents the work of years or​ research among the ruins of the southwest portion of the United States and Mexico. Prof. Starr is not only an enthusiast in ethnology but an authority of high standing in matters of that nature and the exhibit is regarded by the members of the board as a most valuable addition to the ethnological features already secured.

Nebraska Commission's Meeting.

The regular semi-monthly meeting of the Nebraska Exposition commission will be held tonight at the headquarters of the commission in the Millard hotel. Chairman Neville and Commissioners Whitford, Poynter and Boydston arrived in the city this morning and spent the greater part of the day at the exposition grounds looking over the Nebraska building and noting the progress made in all parts of the grounds.

WILL DISCOUNT FAIRYLAND

Night Scenes Around the Beautiful Lagoon at Exposition Grounds.

TO DISPLAY WONDERS OF ELECTRICITY

Plans for Illumination Contemplate a Departure in the Science—Progress Made by the Exhibitors at Installation of Displays.

From present appearances there is no doubt but what the opening day of the Transmississippi Exposition will see the completion of all the main buildings, together with the installation of the exhibits. Many seem surprised at the apparent slowness in the arrival and installing of exhibits, but the latter is one of the minor factors. Of course the exhibits are not to be slighted in their arrangement, but more rapid progress is made in this particular than in the erecting of booths. The exhibits have to a great degree arrived in the city, and are in storage awaiting the completion of booths in the various buildings. A spirit of friendly feeling seems to pervade among the large mass of humanity now engaged on the grounds. The work goes merrily on without the slightest friction of any kind. The pleasant weather of the last six days has added to the great progress. The grass seems to daily shoot up from the ground and already the lawn mowers have been pressed into service on almost all parts of the grounds.

One of the most beautiful sights to greet the nightly visitors will be the lagoon and main court. This is to be lighted entirely with incandescent electric lights, a feature which has never before been undertaken at a like event, because it was thought impossible. Counting those which project from the buildings there will be 8,156 incandescents, with a combined power of 163,120 candles. They will throw a yellow-like or golden light, casting no shadow, and will make the court as light as day. The electric light decorations on the lagoon have been so arranged as to form a circle. No two of the buildings have been decorated alike. Seven lines of light will extend in circle fashion from the pillars of the Government building to the dome of the same. Nine batteries will form as many different lights for the electrical fountain in the west end of the lagoon and almost any contrast known can be formed by it.

Clearing the Bluff Tract.

Small plants and rose bushes are being set out at different positions about the main court and on the Bluff tract, which will soon give the appearance of a veritable flower garden. The work on the Horticulture building has reached that degree where the trash has been removed and the setting out of bluegrass sod commenced, which is to abut the foundation of the building. The California exhibit will occupy almost one-third of the building to the east. Already Frank Higgins, who has charge of the exhibit, has taken charge and will lose no time in arranging the extensive display.

The Utah agricultural and mining exhibits have arrived, but in a rather dilapidated condition. Mr. Whittaker, the superintendent for Utah, who has been at the grounds for several days arranging booths, received a telegram Wednesday night that a misfortune had overtaken his exhibits at Rawlins, Wyo. Sparks from the engine set fire to the car containing the exhibits and before the fire could be extinguished it had badly damaged them. The exhibits arrived yesterday over the Union Pacific and they look badly. Some of the agricultural selections were entirely consumed by the fire, while a number of the cases for the mining department were badly damaged by the fire and water. The greatest loss was the model of the state house building of Utah, which was valued at $2,000.

WHICH MAY DESTROY THE MAINE.

Concessionaires Go Into Court to Get an Answer to This.

Two concessionaires of the Transmississippi Exposition, assisted by their attorneys, occupied the time and attention of Judge Fawcett all of yesterday afternoon and they will do the same thing again today. It is over the question of which has the right to exhibit movable pictures at the exposition. Each man contends that he has the exclusive right and Judge Fawcett is called upon to decide if such is the case and if not, which has the contract.

E. M. Bayliss brought suit against the Transmississippi and International Exposition association, enjoining it from awarding a contract to Henry Roltair to exhibit movable pictures by aid of a projecting machine. Roltair intervened and then the issues were joined. Bayliss says that originally he had a contract to exhibit an illusion to be known as "Night and Morning," the thing to be in the form of a four-story pyramid in which there were to be numerous scenes, including a cafe where winged females, intended to represent angels, would serve food and drinks. In addition to this there was to be an apartment where his satanic highness would torture his subjects and make things lively for the wicked caught within his domains. This scheme fell through and then his contract was modified so that, according to his version, it would include the exhibit of movable pictures, one of which he says is to be a representation of the harbor of Havana, the city, the surrounding country and the destruction of the Maine.

It is right at this point where the two concessionaires clash. Roltair contends that he has the exclusive contract for the production and projection of pictures showing the situation in Cuba and the destruction of the Maine in the harbor of Havana.

FLORISTS BANQUET PRESIDENT.

Omaha Members Honor the Head of the National Association.

William F. Gude of Washington, D. C., president of the American Association of Florists and Ornamental Horticulturists, and Secretary Stewart of Boston are in the city, having come to make arrangements for the meeting of the association which occurs in August in Omaha. Under the guidance of a committee of local florists they visited the exposition grounds and buildings. A banquet was tendered the visitors at the Dellone hotel last night by the association of local florists.

The dining hall was decorated profusely with palms and other potted plants and the tables were covered with cut roses and smilax. An orchestra sat behind a mass of palms and played during the evening. Those who attended the banquet were: William F. Gude, Washington, D. C., W. J. Stewart, Boston; T. A. Moore, Plattsmouth; John Simmons, Henry Peterson, R. H. Slavey, J. Wilcox, A. Donaghue, sr., A. Donaghue, jr., Lewis Henderson, A. Delanney, Ed C. Erfling, S. B. Stewart, G. Swoboda, Fred Birlinghof, G. R. Hodson, Joseph Chalmers, Paul B. Fitch, J. J. Herr, L. C. Chapin.

Revolutionary Societies Participate.

A meeting of the committee of the societies of the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution was held in the parlors of the Commercial club yesterday afternoon to take action in regard to securing exhibits of colonial and revolutionary relics for the Transmississippi Exposition.

Mrs. Langworthy of Seward, chairman of the state committee, presided. Mrs. Rehlander of Lincoln acted as secretary.

It was decided that June 17 (Bunker Hill day) be celebrated by the installation of the exhibits and Mrs. Daniel Manning, president general of the national society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, is expected to be present to open the exhibit.

The committee appointed John R. Webster of the Sons' society and Mrs. Haggart, state regent of the Daughters' society, to prepare a program for this occasion. It is expected that a banquet will be one of the features of the evening entertainment.

Mr. Daniels of the Nebraska Sons' society, Mrs. M. E. Hall of the Omaha chapter of the Daughters' society, with Mrs. Rehlander of Lincoln, were appointed to act on the state finance committee.

Executive Committee's Business.

The Nebraska Horticultural society was granted authority by the executive committee yesterday to offer premiums for a display of horticultural products for one week in connection with the Nebraska horticultural exhibit. The society will offer premiums amounting to $1,000 as a stimulus to the horticulturists of Nebraska to do their best. The premiums will cover both fruits and flowers.

The Buildings and Grounds department was authorized to construct an artificial lake east of the Agricultural Implement and Transportation building on the north tract as an adjunct to the fireworks displays which will take place on this portion of the grounds. The lake will be 175x150 feet in size and three feet in depth.

E. Schulz of Chicago was granted a concession for a machine resembling a merry-go-round, known as the "whaleback sea wave." The Hawley Manufacturing company of Omaha was granted space in the Liberal Arts building for the sale of toilet articles.

Trouble Settled Satisfactorily.

The work on the Kansas state building received a sudden jolt yesterday at just about quitting time for the day. It seems that there had been some misunderstanding in regard to the carpenters' pay for overtime, but the matter was satisfactorily adjusted between the contractor and carpenters and the work will be pushed forward without further interference it is thought.

Notes of the Exposition.

The Boston Musical Courier for June will contain an illustrated article on the exposition from the pen of Mrs. A. McIvor Brisbine.

Tom Richardson, secretary of the Houston (Tex.) Business league, will be in Omaha next week to look after the arrangements for the Texas exhibit.

The Society of American Florists will hold its annual convention in the First Congregational church, arrangements having been made with the Woman's club for that purpose.

The contract for the construction of the Press building has been let to John Rasmussen and work will be commenced forthwith. His contract requires the building to be fully completed by May 28.

The contract for painting the interior of the Horticulture building has been let to E.E. D. Allen. The interior of this building is almost completed, and the entire building, with the exception of the dome, is under roof. Delay in receiving the glass for the dome has held back that part of the work, but the building will be entirely completed and ready for occupancy by the first of the coming week.

MINERALS FROM ALABAMA

Dr. Day Gets News that Gives Him Much Professional Pleasure.

IRON INDUSTRY IS TO BE EXPLAINED

Object Lesson Showing the Revolution Wrought by Which it Became Possible to Supply Europe with Pig Iron.

Dr. David T. Day, mining commissioner for the exposition, is rejoicing over the fact that the arrangements have been completed for an excellent mineral exhibit from Alabama. Negotiations have been pending for a long time for a mineral exhibit from the state which has, within the last few years, taken a prominent place in the mining world, but no satisfactory conclusion could ever be reached. Efforts were made to induce the state to make an appropriation, but these proved unavailing, as did efforts to accumulate a fund through individual efforts. Dr. William B. Phillips of Birmingham, a man prominent in mining affairs in the south, was recently appointed honorary commissioner of mining for the state by the exposition and through his efforts and that of the Commercial club of Birmingham an exhibit is now assured.

"The exhibit which will be made by Alabama," said Dr. Day, "will show the reasons why that state has been exporting pigiron to the old country—a thing which, even up to five years ago—was regarded as impossible for all time. It will show the natural mineral resources of the state, and especially the Birmingham district, showing how the near proximity of fuel, flux and ore enables that section to produce iron at less cost than any other section in the world. This ability to produce pigiron at a minimum cost, together with the exhibit of Minnesota, showing how iron ore is produced cheaper than anywhere else, will form a strong object lesson.

"The exhibit from Alabama will not be confined to iron alone," continued Dr. Day, "but will include other industrial minerals, including building stones and clay products. This display is made possible by the energy of Dr. Phillips and the Birmingham Commercial club. The exhibit will form a carload, and Dr. Phillips will accompany it to look after its installation."

COMING OF THE GREAT EXHIBITS.

Transportation Department Receives Evidence of Exposition's Success.

Every mail brings to the Department of Transportation bills of lading, which are positive evidence that from every quarter of the country exhibit are enroute to the exposition. Hundreds of carloads of material are on the way of Omaha, to be placed in the magnificent buildings prepared for them an dto​ assist in making up a display which will be a marvelous collection of the products of the soil and the factory.

All of this material will arrive in Omaha before the middle of hte​ coming week, and, with the exhibits already in the buildings, will make the entire exposition grounds a center of activity beside which the ancient beehive will sink into insignificance [?] example [?] of men will be employed in setting up the booths and installing the multitude of exhibits. In the case of commercial exhibits the booths are shipped to the grounds all ready to be erected and their assembling is the work of but a few hours. A corps of decorators and assistants will accompany each exhibit to put it in place and these men will constitute an army of no mean proportions.

The exhibits which arrive in carload lots are switched directly to the grounds, where the cars are set on track in the rear of the building in which the exhibit is to be placed. The material is then unloaded by the local transfer companies having the concession for this work and placed on the space assigned to the exhibitor. Where exhibits are not extensive enough to fill a car several are consolidated in one car at the downtown freight depots and switched to the grounds, where the same process follows as in the case of carloads.

The floor in each building is marked with broad white lines showing the boundaries of the several spaces, and each space is marked with the number of the exhibitor to whom the space is assigned. The labels on the goods are marked with the exhibitor's number and all confusion is thereby avoided. This system was devised by the Department of Exhibits, and has been most conducive to order and expedition.

ANOTHER WEEK FOR CHILDREN.

Executive Committee of the Women's Board Decides Competition's Close.

The executive committee of the Woman's Board of Mangers has decided that the individual competition being conducted under the auspices of the board shall be closed May 20. This competition is for the purpose of inciting the children to renewed efforts in the line of their school work, and inducements in the shape of medals in all classes for the best work are supplemented by the announcement that the work winning a prize will be given a place in the exposition. This competition has been held open longer than was at first intended on account of the fact that the children have been pushed by the demand for extra work for the state exhibit, but it is now announced that the lists will positively close May 20 and no further entries will be received after that date. Mrs. Keysor, Mrs. Reed and Miss McHugh have been appointed a committee to select the judges in this competition.

It has also been decided to have a formal opening of the Girls' and Boys' building some time during June. The exact date has not been fixed and the ceremony will not interfere with the occupancy of the building before it occurs. The building is under contract to be completed ready for occupancy June 1 and it will be occupied at that time, but the formal dedication of the structure will not occur until afterward. President Sawyer, Mrs. Reed and Miss McHugh constitute a committee to arrange for the details of the ceremony.

The congress committee of the Woman's board has appointed the local committee for the Congress of Literature, comprising Ben. H. Barrows, chairman, Mrs. W. H. Hanchett, Miss Margaret Boyd, W. H. Alexander and Dr. Leo Franklin.

Mesdames Harford, Kimball and Keysor have been appointed a committee to appoint the employes required in and about the Girls' and Boys' building.

Mrs. Bowser's Sod House.

Four carloads of sod to be used in the construction of the Nebraska sod house which will occupy a prominent position on the bluff tract, a short distance southeast of the Nebraska building, have arrived in the ciyt​ and the material will be taken directly to the grounds when the construction of the sod house will be commenced at once. It was cut in Dodge county on acount​ of the peculiar qquality​ of the virgin sod of that section which makes it especially desirable for the purpose and also on account of the fact that it was cut in what is now the county that Mrs. Bowser, the prospective occupant of the house, spent her early days in Nebraska. The house will be a roomy affair, for the kind, and Mrs. Bowser will adopt the customs of the early dwellers in this peculiar type of dwelling in order to truthfully depict the days of the hardy pioneers on the western prairies.

Live Stock Association Convention.

The National Live Stock association is making extensive preparations for a good showing at the exposition. It was determined some time ago to maintain headquarters on the grounds during the entire exposition, and Peter Jensen, the Nebraska member of the executive board, has now been asked to make arrangements for a convention to be held at Omaha on some date to be arranged later. It is announced that the program for this convention will include papers by some of the most noted live stock men in this country, as well as by some of the foreign representatives.

TWO EXPOSITION PROBLEMS.

The exposition management has overcome many obstacles that seemed almost insurmountable and has brought the enterprise to a point that assured its success as one of the greatest expositions every projected for this or any other country. For this the executive committee, which has had the laboring oar in financiering, promoting and organizing the enterprise, is justly entitled to credit.

At this stage, however, when the construction period is almost completed and the great task of active supervision of the daily operations on the grounds entered upon, the concentration of authority in a single competent head is conceded to be imperative. Whether this officer be called director general, general manager or general superintendent, he must be held responsible for the good order and efficiency of all the subordinates and employes on the grounds. No man can perform this duty without full power to enforce his orders by summary dismissal, if necessary, of insubordinates, incompetents and men guilty of dishonest practices. Any obstruction to the creation of such office is as subversive to the interests of the exposition as is any attempt to prevent the checking up of the exposition books by a competent expert accountant.

In other words, second only in importance to the appointment of a director general is the appointment of a comptroller or auditor entirely independent of both treasurer, secretary and any manager of the executive committee just as the United States treasury is entirely independent of the treasurer and the secretary of the treasury himself.

It is a matter of grave concern to those informed of the fact that the so-called auditors of this great corporation have been simply clerks under the secretary, who is also practically acting treasurer. The fact that the books are being checked from day to day by a clerk called an auditor does not warrant the assumption that they are being audited in the true sense of the word. Although more than $500,000 has been handled under this loose system, it is no reason why a reform should not be at once inaugurated when the gates are about to be opened with the expectation of receipts amounting to over $1,000,000 coming in from various sources.

The appointment of an auditor by the full directory would materially strengthen the credit of the exposition and help the executive committee in its efforts to float a temporary loan. It would also relieve the executive committee from a grave responsibility which should not be imposed upon it.

CALLS IT THE "OMAHA" STAMP

Postoffice Department Gives the Special Issue Its Official Name and Description.

Yesterday the Department of Publicity and Promotion received a telegram from Washington to the effect that the exposition stamp issue would be printed in one color. It had been the intention of the Postoffice department to use two or more colors in order to bring out the design more forcibly and to lend to each denomination a peculiar individuality. Owing to the extra time required for printing this was abandoned and now each stamp will be in one solid color, the different denominations to be of different hues.

Third Assistant Postmaster General Merritt is out with a circular, under date of April 21, to the postoffices of the United States, some 160,000 odd in number, making arrangements for the new stamp. It will be known as the "Omaha issue." The circular says:

To accomplish the distribution of these stamps a requisition form, "3201—Omaha," printed on yellow paper will be furnished all postmasters upon their request to the first assistant postmaster general after May 1 next. Presidential postmasters will receive copies of this form before that date. This new form may be used for ordering any postal cards or stamped envelopes desired with the Omaha stamps, but ordinary stamps of the 1894 series, now being issued, will not be furnished on the new form of requisition mentioned above.

There is no issue of Omaha cards or stamped envelopes. The adhesive form is the only description of Omaha stamped paper will be issued. The issue of these stamps will cease at the end of the calendar year, December 31, 1898, but they will be good for postage indefinitely.

The denominations of the Omaha stamp will be the 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10 and 50-cent and the $1 and $2, making a complete set of them cost $3.80. The department will issue soon a complete description of the stamps.

All the requisition and return forms for the Omaha stamp have been received at the Omaha postoffice. From the preparation made by the government it is evident the officials at Washington expect the regular series of stamps to be supplanted by the Omaha so far as its denominations go. It is expected that by the first of June the sale will begin and from that date forward every letter sent throughout the world from a postoffice of the United States will bear an advertisement of Omaha and the Great Transmississippi Exposition.

MARINE BAND MAY YET COME

Omaha Likely to Listen to This Magnificent Musical Organization.

ANOTHER ATTRACTION FOR THE EXPOSITION

President McKinley is Said to Be in Favor of Allowing the Band to Visit Omaha's Big Show.

WASHINGTON, May 12.—(Special Telegram.)—The question of the Marine band going to Omaha has once more reached the president, Secretary Long of the Navy department stating the Senator Thurston, who called upon the secretary in relation to the matter this morning, that he would not interpose any objection to the band's going in view of the fact that the exposition was of a national character as indicated by congress and President McKinley. While there is no certainty that the band may be permitted to leave there is no doubt that progress is being made toward that end.

The Star states tonight that the president has authorized the Marine band to attend the National Exposition at Omaha solely because it comes under the rule which permits the band to attend occasions for which congress has made an aprpopriation​, and in this case congress has made an appropriation of $200,000. This assertion could not be confirmed, but there is every reason to believe that it is true. Director Santlemann is greatly pleased with the outcome of the matter and is ready to enter into a contract with the exposition management at a figure that shall be mutually satisfactory. The band has not had such an extended trip since 1895, and has not been in Omaha since the spring of 1892, when it went there under the leadership of Sousa.