CHAPTER 37

The End of the 'Gold Dust'

FOR, three months later, August 8, while I was writing one of these

foregoing chapters, the New York papers brought this telegram--

A TERRIBLE DISASTER.

SEVENTEEN PERSONS KILLED BY AN EXPLOSION ON THE STEAMER 'GOLD DUST.'

'NASHVILLE, Aug. 7.--A despatch from Hickman, Ky., says--

'The steamer “Gold Dust” exploded her boilers at three o'clock to-day,

just after leaving Hickman. Forty-seven persons were scalded and

seventeen are missing. The boat was landed in the eddy just above the

town, and through the exertions of the citizens the cabin passengers,

officers, and part of the crew and deck passengers were taken ashore and

removed to the hotels and residences. Twenty-four of the injured were

lying in Holcomb's dry-goods store at one time, where they received

every attention before being removed to more comfortable places.'

A list of the names followed, whereby it appeared that of the seventeen

dead, one was the barkeeper; and among the forty-seven wounded, were the

captain, chief mate, second mate, and second and third clerks; also Mr.

Lem S. Gray, pilot, and several members of the crew.

In answer to a private telegram, we learned that none of these was

severely hurt, except Mr. Gray. Letters received afterward confirmed

this news, and said that Mr. Gray was improving and would get well.

Later letters spoke less hopefully of his case; and finally came one

announcing his death. A good man, a most companionable and manly man,

and worthy of a kindlier fate.