Canoeing is a sport which is rapidly increasing in popularity in this country, and early next month the Annual Convention of the American Canoe Association will be held on Canoe Island, in Lake George, where a large number of canoeists will gather. Much business will be transacted, a number of races will be contested, and canoes of every known model will be exhibited during the three days of the Convention. During their stay the canoeists will camp out on the island, and they expect to have a jolly good time.
Canoes are of many styles, and range in price from $20 to $100. The former are canvas canoes, and the latter are of cedar and oak or birch, beautifully finished in every detail.
A number of boys have already written to the editor of this paper asking him what style of canoe is the best. This question can only be answered when it is accompanied by a description of the water on which the canoe is to be used, and the purposes for which it is wanted. For paddling on inland waters, and large carrying capacity, the birch is a good canoe; but being open, and without a keel, it is a "wet" craft, and not adapted for sailing. The canvas canoe, of which a description and directions for building have already been given in YOUNG PEOPLE, is also good for inland waters, is easy to paddle, can carry sail, and being decked over, will keep a cargo dry. The "Racine" and "Nautilus" canoes are the best for both paddling and sailing, and will stand heavy weather. The "Shadow" and "Jersey Blue" canoes are the best for sailing, and are generally preferred for salt-water cruising.
Any of the readers of YOUNG PEOPLE who desire further information concerning canoes may address "Nautilus," and he will try to furnish it through Our Post-office Box.
Up from the gateway of the dawn The great sun lifted slow, And touched with fire the State-house spire, To eyes that watched with strong desire, A hundred years ago.
The ringer's foot was on the stair-- A gray-haired man was he, But firm of step and strong of arm, With heart that, warm through night and storm, Beat time to liberty.
"I'll climb the tower," he said. "My son, Stay thou to bring me word, And ere the glorious page be dry, My bell and I, 'twixt earth and sky, Shall bid the news be heard."