Bob Worthen, the ice man, surprised him-…
source date: 1891
availability: public-domain

olid busi- ness men of the ancient city. They did a bank- ing business among other things, and their house was a government depository. The failure of the firm in the early eighties was a nine days wonder, as it was considered as financially sound as Jay Gould or the Astors. Bob Worthen, the ice man, surprised him- self as well as his many friends last Sunday. Contrary to his usual custom. Bob had his hair cut, took a wash, donned new togs, and other- wise disguised himself. He then proceeded to hitch up his little mules, as had been his custom for years, and here the trouble commenced. The mules not recognizing their owner, in his altered appearance, decidedly objected to be- ing handled by a stranger; they squealed, kick- ed, and otherwise showed their displeasure, until after repeated attempts to quiet them down. Bob finally gave up the task in despair. It suddenly occurred to him that something was wrong, and returning home he put his wits to work, and finally solved the problem. He changed his good clothes for his usual every day attire and returned to the stable; he had no trouble in managing the mules this time, as they recognized their master.