1880-1883 Garlow scrapbook

Fitchburgh Daily Sentinel Mass

The Buffalo Bill combination presented the "Prairie Waif" to a large and enthusiastic audience in city hall, last evening. The play deals less in gunpowder and smoke than those in which he has heretofore appeared but is nevertheless full of the sensation of Western border life. Liberal applause was bestowed upon Buffalo Bill, (Hon. W. F. Cody), whose splendid physique and frank, open manner, establishes him a favorite with his audience at once. Mr. Cody takes the character of the scout and hero of the plains and is supported by a full company, including a band of genuine Cheyenne Indians, who appear in the fourth act in their scalp and war dances. In the second act Buffalo Bill gave an exhibition of his wonderful skill with the rifle, which was the particular delight of the gallerty gods. The entertainment as a whole is a sensational one, and the scenes of the play are taken from incidents occurring in Mr. Cody's past life.

Ottawa Daily Citizen

Buffalo Bill

And his company arrived in town this forenoon, from Fitchburg, and the attention of people on the street was divided between him and the Indians in his company. They will all appear at White's Opera House, this evening, in the border life drama of the "Praire Waif," which introduces some of the real incidents in the life of Buffalo Bill. The company is a large one and it will draw a full house. Buffalo Bill is quartered at the Eagle Hotel. Here is what the Hamilton Daily Times says of the company: "When the curtain rang up last evening, the Academy of Music contained the largest audience that has been assembled there this season, and it is safe to say that at no time in the history of the building was there such a crowd in the gallery. There was not room for a policeman. All were drawn there by the magic name of 'Buffalo Bill.' 'The Prairie Waif,' which was written expressly for Buffalo Bill, by that renowned actor, John A. Stevens, is an entirely new drama, having been first produced in New York, about seven weeks ago. The usual number of desperadoes and Indians were killed, and Bill comes out victor every time, without receiving a scratch. He was, of course, the central figure, and deservedly obtained the recognition of the large audience present. His sharpshooting was very good, and his acting was vigorous and realistic."

Montreal Gazette

NORDHEIMER'S HALL.

The Buffalo Bill combination made their first appearance in this city, at this place of amusement, last evening, in the play of "Prairie Waif." There was a very good house. The "Prairie Waif" is a capital border drama, abounding both in humorous situations and sentimental incidents. The plot turns upon the capture of a girl by Indians, her rescue, and her subsequent love episodes with her deliverer. Mr. Coady, as Buffalo Bill, was naturally the principal attraction, and acted with all his accustomed vigour and ability. Jules Keen, as Hans, was particularly good, and Miss Fetcher, as Onita, exhibits some good acting in the emotional scenes. Sadie was well rendered by Miss Thompson, who delighted the audience by her funny dialogue with Hans. In the fourth act a band of Cheyenne Indians made their appearance, and gave some of their war dances, which were very origianl and had the effect of bringing down the "gods." Buffalo Bill's fancy rifle shooting was also very good, and elicited warm and well-deserved applause. The play is again on the boards for this evening, when we hope to see another large house greet the celebrated scout.

Montreal Herald

NORDHEIMER'S HALL.

"BUFFALO BILL."

A fair house greeted "Buffalo Bill" in "Prairie Waif," at Nordheimer's Hall, last evening. This play represents a hunter's life in the far West and the trials and dangers he goes through in that land among the Indians. "Buffalo Bill," in his representation of three separate characters, was certainly all that could be wished for, and his support was good throughout, a leading feature being the appearance of the band of Cheyenne Indian Chiefs in their scalp and war dances. There was apparently a good deal of reality in the scalping part of the programme, and if any of our readers would like to see how it is doen they should pay "Buffalo Bill" a visit this evening, and they will then realize all the dangers that the soldiers across the border encounter when they are sent to keep these Indians quiet. There will be a matinee on Saturday afternoon, when the price will be 25c. to all parts of the house.

Montreal Herald and Gazette

BUFFALO BILL.

Concerning the "Prairie Waif," in which the Buffalo Bill Combination will appear at Nordheimer's Hall on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of this week, the Burlington Hawkeye says:-- "The play, a five act drama, gave general satisfaction. It is one of the best border dramas ever presented here, being a simple but interesting plot, but each scene is full of thrilling encounters and laughable scenes characteristic of life in the far West. The stage appointments are good. Of course a girl is captured by the Indians, and after much planning and following trails through the wilderness, considerable "Injun" fighting and dare-devil skirmishes, the maiden is rescued, falls in love with the hero who takes her from the clutches of the redskins, and then everything is lovely--until she is captured again the next night. Buffalo Bill is the central figure and should be, for his acting is not only good, but his fancy shooting is fine. Jules Keen as Hans the Dutchman, is simply immense. Miss Lizzie Fletcher as Onita, shows good training as an actress, and does some especially good acting in emotional scenes. Sadie is well sustained by Miss Connie Thompson. We have not the space to mention all, suffice it to say that the persons named have good support. The play is free from vulgar expressions, which alone commends it."

Ottawa Daily Free Press

The company left by the night train

OPERA HOUSE TO-NIGHT.

"BUFFALO BILL."

Our readers will bear in mind that Mr. Wm. F. Cody's Combination occupy the boards at the Opera House to-night, and that the performance will be under the patronage of His Excellency the Marquis of Lorne. Mr. Cody, as a scout for the American Government, has had many year's experience of border life, and, although a terror to the Indians in warfare, in the time of peace stands in the same position as our Major Walsh--holding the unbounded confidence of the Indian traibes of the far west. The nature of a scout's business is reckless and daring, and during a march the scout goes for weeks that he almost eats, sleeps, and, as it were, lives in the saddle, and, as a natural consequence is a thorough horseman. An exchange says of this actor:--"For years a Government scout and Indian fighter, his life upon the plains has developed in him a magnificent specimen of rugged manly beauty, tall, agile and muscular. In his trapper's costume he presents a picture worthy the brush of any artist. In August, 1868, 'Buffalo Bill' rode in twelve hours from Fort Larned to Fort Zarah and back, sixty-five miles; in the succeeding twelve hours he carried despatches to General Sheridan from Fort Larned to Fort Hayes, sixty-five miles. From Fort Hayes he rode in the next twenty-four hours to Fort Dodge, ninety-five miles; on the next night he went to Fort Larned, thirty-five miles on foot and thirty miles on a mule; and again the next night from Fort Larned to Fort Hayes, sixty-five miles. He made on horses, mules and afoot 355 miles, and he was in the saddle or afoot fifty eight hours. These successive rides were made through a rough, irregular country, swarming with hostile Indians, where there were no roads, and hardly a perceptible trail, which had to be followed in the obscurity of the night. Early in life Buffalo Bill made a continuous ride of 322 miles, making that distance in the incredibly short time of twenty-two house, a wonderful feat of human endurance." Don't forget the popular priced matinee on Wednesday.

New York Despatch

WINDSOR THEATRE.--A new play written expressly for Mr. W. F. Cody ("Buffalo Bill") is to be played at the Windsor Theatre to-morrow evening. The title of the drama is "The Prairie Waif; A Story of the Far West," and is from the pen of Mr. John A. Stevens. The following is the story of the drama: The curtain rises on the twenty-fifth anniversary of Gen. Brown's wedding day, who, some ten years previous, had lost his daughter named Bertha, some five years old, who, while walking with her nurse one day, was stolen by concealed men, and the nurse killed. The disappearance of the child was to the father a dark mystery. An adventurer named Hardi, a territorial official under Mormon sway, had, by a dying confession, obtained the secret to the girl's history, and tracks her to her concealment. He determined to gain possession of her person, marry her, and thereby gain position and wealth. To accomplish which, by threats and bribes, he acquires the agency of a worthless drunken renegade. He finds finds the girl under the protection of an aged Indian chief called Lone Deer, who is on his way with the waif to the fort to seek the protection of the commandant. On their way they are intercepted by Hardi and his satellites, who are about to seize the girl and carry her off, when Buffalo Bill suddenly appears, a fight ensues, and in the struggle Lone Deer is mortally wounded. The ruffians being discomfited run away and leave Buffalo Bill and the little waif, who sadly bemoans the death of her faithful Indian. Bill, being touched by her lonliness and grief, offers her his protection, and brings her to his homestead, and places her in the charge of his mother, who faithfully and affectionately watches over her while she lives. But at length the old lady dies, and the little waif having developed into a beautiful girl, is sincerely beloved by Bill. She reciprocates his affection and they become man and wife. The villainous Hardi, relentless in his hatred, with his Mormon Danites set fire to the homestead and burn it to the ground. Bill fights his way out and with his wife and a couple of companions make a forced march across the Plains. At length, after many vicissitudes the waif is restored to happiness, and a doting father regains his lost child. Mr. Cody will sustain the character of Buffalo Bill, and the other characters in the drama will be sustained by an efficient company.

Ottawa Herald

The Prairie Waif.

One of the finest houses of the season greeted Buffalo Bill and his combination last night in the new drama of the "Prarie Waif; and the frequent and hearty applause showed that the audience fully enjoyed the excellent entertainment provided for them. The piece differs materially from the usual border drama, in that it has very much less "blood and thunder" than is usual, and a great deal more fun. Buffalo Bill himself is the central figure and acts with much eas and grace, while his exhibition of fancy rifle shooting in the second act fairly delighted the audience. The support was excellent, especially that of Miss Fletcher, Miss Thompson, and Messrs. Keen and Charles. The performance will be repeated tonight and tomorrow night, and at the matinee tomorrow.

Williamsfort Banner

A NOVEL SIGHT. Hundreds of Spectators and a Scene that Beat the Buffalo Bill Company. A short time before 12 o'clock m., today, Buffalo Bill, who performs at the Academy of Music this evening, passed down Fourth street with his Indians, headed by a full brass band. The Indians were on horse back, dressed in their native costume, marching along single file. This being the day set apart since the Seminary was founded for campus-cleaning, the students were at work as busy as bees in clover time. Each student had his or her part to perform, and each one was dressed a little on the fantastic style. Hearing Buffalo Bills' procession and music they shouldered their brooms, rakes, shovels, hoes and similar implements of war, and marched down Academy street to Fourth to see their rivals, the Indians. About this time the public schools of the Franklin building were dismissed, and two or three hundred boys and girls rushed down the street yelling and whooping like natural-born red men. For a little while it was nip and tuck, hard to decide which was the greatest show. There were few elements of difference save that the Indians were on horse back and single file, While the whites were on foot and in somewhat promiscuous file.

Buffalo Bill. At the Opera House last evening a very good audience were present to witness the representation by the "Buffalo Bill" Company of the thrilling drama of the "Prairie Waif." The piece was very interesting and exciting, while the scenic effect was admirable and well adapted to the play. The drama deals with life on the frontier, and, as a consequence, is full of stirring scenes, which are relieved at times by quaint humour and touching pathos. The plot is the capture by the Indians of a little child, her rescue after years by the the guide ("Buffalo Bill"), who carefully protects her till she becomes a loving and beautiful woman, and in the end is rewarded for his kindness by the hand of the "Prairie Waif." The caste was a good one. Mr. Cody, as "Buffalo Bill," showed to advantage, his fine figure and appearance being greatly in his favour, while the rendition of his part vividly placed before the minds of his audience his daring and thrilling life in the far West. He was loudly applauded in many instances. Harry Clifton as "Jim Hardy," played the villian to perfection, and at times a feeling of relief seemed to pervade the audience when his well-laid schemes were blown to the winds and his villainy laid bare. "Hans" (Jule Keen) was brimful of fun, and kept the house convulsed with laughter by his facial contortions, witty sayings, songs, and dances. He was well assisted by his brother, as he called him, "Jack Cass," a lively little donkey. "Onita" (Miss Fletcher) performed her allotted part as the "Prairie Waif" with good effect and gave general satisfaction. Miss "Saddie" was very amusing, and her love for "Hans," the Dutchman, was of a very original nature. The rest of the company rendered valuable assistance in carrying out the play. Many of the scenes were warmly applauded, and the curtain was raised several times to admit of the audience getting a view of the beautiful tableux represented. the shooting of Mr Cody was really marvellous, and showed great skill and dexterity. We bespeak a bumper house for the company if they should return to Kingston.

The Buffalo Bill attractions at the opera house last night filled the building, literally from pit to dome. The galleries were black with people, the juvenile element of the population being largely represented, and the noise and hubub from this upper realm was suggestive of a Dublin theatre, bearing the wit of the Milesian gods, which was wanting. The house was a paying one, and "Bill's Best Trail" as a pecuniary card, proved what the traveling agents would style "immense." The supporting company is not an inferior one, and a diverting farce, which was the prelude to the "Knight of the plains," developed some quite respectable talent for comedy. After this the curtain was rung upon the opening scene—a pretty fair picture of the prairies—a four-act play in which Cody personates the "Knight of the Plains." Col Prentice Ingraham, the author of the melodrama, ought to feel at home in Nashville, of which city he was a resident in his earlier years. His father, the late Rev J H Ingraham, was the principal of a prosperous female seminary in this city, and we believe was at one time rector of Christ church. Col Ingraham's literary qualifications are inherited. His father was a prolific writer and the author of quite a number of works of fiction which had extensive circulation, as the average of America border life dramas essentially are. But there is less of the harrowing, blood-curling gunpowdery rant and fustian than might be expected from its title. Written expressly for the prominent part, that of "Buffalo Bill," ample scope for the histrionic capabilities of Mr Cody has been judiciously afforded by the author in the arrangement of the play. It is true there is nothing striklingly original in the plot, and the situations are somewhat after the dime novel order of suggested romance, but the language is devoid of coarseness, and while, in the play, a good deal is left to the imagination, there is enough in the action and spirit of the interpreter to furnish an entertainment of a popular kind, and if there is nothing positively demoralizing in the story. For the purpose for which it was written, namely, to introduce the famous scout and his specialties it is a success. The marksmanship of he latter, in the first act, and a unique barbaric dance in native costume by the copperhead children of the prairies, constitute the best features of the entertainment. An appropriate climax to this scene was the rescue of her lover—the scout—by Wild Nellie—(Miss Denier) in a striking tableau which brought down the house, especially the upper portion of it. Buffalo Bill makes his first entrance mounted on a superb charger, which mute actor acquitted himself with as much credit as any of the rest of the company. Buffalo Bill has a fine stage presence, and, with the exception of a little of the stiffness and elocutionary deficiencies which mark the amateur, is not a bad actor. The support was fair, and the performance was repeatedly and heartily applauded at the close. The same play will be presented at the matinee to-day, and Buffalo Bill's marvellous rifle shooting is in itself alone, a sight worth seeing. The closing performance of the engagement will be given to-night. The receipts last night were $1,080.25 the largest by nearly $100 taken in for two seasons past.

"PRAIRIE WAIF." Buffalo Bill and his Braves in Rather Entertaining Mood.

Buffalo Bill's Company performed the "Prairie Waif" in the Opera House last evening to an audience respectable in size and satisfied in feeling. Hon. W. F. Cody is the central figure in the play. For him it was expressly written and in it he assumes the role of Indian fighter, Government scout, hunter and hero, and in dramatic form gave an exhibition of some scenes very like those through which he has passed in the execution of important commissions. There are four acts in the drama, representing four different phases of a plot whose origin, development and final collapse, by force of adverse circumstances, constitute interesting details. At different times there are hostile meetings when rifles, pistols and bowie knives flourished in a manner that would be decidedly unpleasant to contemplate were the weapons in other than expert hands. As the saviour, protector and husband of the prairie waif (Miss Lizzie Fletcher) Buffalo Bill merited favous, has fine physique, fair acting, but specially his fancy shooting being features that elicited general compliment. The support was passable good, the orchestra far above the average.

Rochester NY Sunday Herald

Buffalo Bill at Bay. The noted scout, known the world over as Buffalo Bill, has made a dramatic hit, receiving great suc- in the new melo-drama of "Buffalo Bill at Bay; or the Pearl of the Prairie" a play written especially for him by the well-known author, Col. Prentiss Ingraham, or Mississippi, whose works of fiction and poems are even more widely read than were his father's works some years ago. This new drama though possessing a sensational plot and filled with scares of thrilling interest is not one to cause "each separate hair to stand on end" a la porcupine, with blood-curdling acts, and no firearms disturbs the even and interesting tenor of its way, for though founded upon facts and a play of the border, it is devoid of the terrifc, and life as it really is and has been upon our wild western frontier, bringing into its plot characters met with in the far west of both good and bad, eccentric and decidedly funny, while pathetic scenes, amusing situations and striking tableaux are freely intermingled in a way that does credit to the author, and gives proof of his intimate acquaintance with life of the plains.

Of course Buffalo Bill is the central figure, the star around which the lesser lights revolve, the hero of heroes, and certainly he plays his part with a naturalness that carries the audience with him, and proves himself an actor of no mean talent when he impersonates old Denver Dick and the dashing young officer, Captain Frederick.

Well supported throughout, and in the characters of Corrine Kendall, Miss Nellie Jones, Dr. Boniface, Mr. Alf Beverly, Michael Mullaney, Mr. Charles Wilson, and Old Solitary. Mr. C. R. Willard strongly supported, the piece glides smoothly through unto the end, amusing and entertaining the audience in a manner that wins enthusiastic applause, which cannot but be most gratifying to both author and actors, and will bring to it a successful run as long as Mr. Cody desires to keep it before the public, for, independent of preventing a strong attraction with his company, Buffalo Bill possesses a magnetic presence that can never fail to draw.

Mancester NH Daily Minor

To-morrow evening the far-famed scout and actor, "Buffalo Bill," will appear in the operahouse, in his new border drama, "The Prairie Waif." The play is said to be a capital one, replete with strong situations and dramatic effected, and the Indians in the company are reported to be the genuine article. Look for the street parade to-morrow.

MUSIC HALL.

One Night Only.

Monday, Nov. 10, '79.

HON. W. F. CODY,

BUFFALO BILL! AND HIS MAMMOTH COMBINATION. OF 24 ARTISTS 24

Each member having been especially engaged for their respective parts. And to further strengthen the Drama Mr. Cody has at great expense, secured a band of GENUINE INDIAN CHIEFS, who will on this occasion appear in the Melodrama in 4 acts, written for Buffalo Bill by Col Prentiss Ingraham, entitled KNIGHT THE PLAINS Or Buffalo Bill's Best Trail.

Act 1st--Prairie Fire Scene. (From the Original Painting). Act 2d--Gambling Saloon in Cheyenne, Act 3d--Buffalo Bill as a Detective. Act 4th--Buffalo Bill as the Pony Express, Rid Buttermilk and his Trained Donkey. Robbing the Overland Stage Coach. Buffalo Bill to the Rescue. EDDIE BURGESS, the Boy Chief of the Pawnees, and C. A. BURGESS, U. S. Scout, and a Band of Genuine Indians in their War and Medicine Dances, &c. During the first Act Buffalo Bill will exhibit his

Marverlous Fancy Shooting with the Rifle,

Which has distinguished him as one of the greatest marksmen the World has ever produced. POPULAR PRICES--Reserved Seats 75 cents, to be had at Nye & Co.'s Drug Store, [pointing finger] Look out for the Street Parade by the Indians on horseback, headed by Buffalo Bill's Military Band, on the above date. JOSH E. OGDEN, Business Manager. Col. PRENTISS INGRAHAM, Treasurer. 11-4-4t

MARTIN OPERA HOUSE.

Friday & Saturday, April 16 & 17.

Matinee Saturday at 2 O'Clock.

NEW DRAMA! NEW COMPANY!'

EIGTH ANNUAL TOUR OF THE GREAT SCOUT

HON. W. F. CODY, BUFFALO BILL AND HIS MONSTER COMBINATION! INCLUDING HIS MILITARY BRASS BAND AND ORCHESTRA ALSO A Band of Genuine Indian Chiefs EDDIE BURGESS, BOY CHIEF OF THE PAWNEES. FIRST TIME IN THIS CITY OF COL. INGRAHAM'S NEW MELO-DRAMA. IN FOUR ACTS WRITTEN EXPRESSLY FOR BUFFALO BIL, ENTITLED BUFFALO BILL AT BAY; OR, PEARL OF THE PRAIRIE!

ACT I. Buffalo Bill's Home in the Rocky Mountains. The Burning Cabin. ACT II. Biting Wolf on the war path, Buffalo Bill at Bay. ACT III. The Outlaw's Cave. Prairie Pearl a captive. CROW AND HIS TRAINED DONKEY, JERRY. ACT IV. The Secret Discovered. Tracked to Death. During the Drama BUFFALO BILL will exhibit his MARVELOUS RIFLE SHOOTING, which has distinguished him as one of the Greatest Marksmen the world has ever produced. Also intorducing in the drama the only group of GENUINE FRONTIER INDIAN CHIEFS, who will appear in Natural Camping Scenes and exhibition of War Dances, Customary Cermonies, etc., etc. POPULAR PRICES OF ADMISSION. Reserved Seats to be had at Cluett & Con's music store. Look out for the street parade by the Indians on horseback, headed by Buffalo Bill's Military Band on the above date. W. F. CODY, Proprietor and Manager. JOSH E. GOLDEN, Business Manager. COL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, Treasurer

Corinthian Academy. Mr. Cody and his company appeared to a fine house last night. The play presented is a decided improvement on the pieces in which the same troupe has usually appeared. There is no shooting, scalping or stabbing, yet the interest of the gallery was not lost on that account. Mr. Cody is a great favorite in this city, which he at one time made his home. He makes a fine figure either off or on the stage, and is gradually showing that he has no ordinary dramatic talent as well as great skill with the rifle. There is no better or quieter way of getting an idea of life on the border than to attend the "Buffalo Bill" performances. No doubt the company will draw a still larger house to-night.

Buffalo Bill had the largest house of the season last evening and his new play of the "Praire Waif," written for him by John A. Stevens, was quite an improvement over his former plays, being less rough and "sketchy." Buffalo Bill was very fairly supported by Lizzie Fletcher as "Onira' and R. C. White as "Mark Stanley," the drunken tool of the Danites, Miss Connie Thompson as "Sadie," the scold also pleased the audience highly. The second low comedy characters of Capt Russel, the Irishman, and Hans. the Dutchman, were very good and both paid particular attention to their dialect. the rifle shooting by Buffalo Bill was also good, but it would have been a better test of his abilities if he had shot at longer range.

Buffalo Bill. Buffalo Bill made his biennial visit to this city. Friday, and in the evening his enthusiastic admirers, and they are not by any means few here, packed the opera-house from pit to dome. After eight o'clock a seat could not be got for love nor money, and the late-comers were forced to content themselves with standing far back by the entrances and stretching their necks to catch even a glimpse of their frontier ideal in his soul-harrowing play of "The Prairie Waif." About this play not much can be said in the way of a plot. It seemed as if the drama was made up on the sput of the moment, and that the scenes, many of which were very interesting and exciting, were of the impromptu order. One salient feature of the play is the almost entire absence of shooting, which has heretofore been a chief characteristic of our blood-and-thunder drama, and in cutting this out, Mr Cody has shown his good sense. The piece was finely mounted, and Buffalo Bill was supported by a good company. Buffalo Bill seems to improve with each appearance. His fancy rifle-shooting, last night, was the best ever seen in the city, and was the chief attraction of the evening's entertainment. He may always be certain of drawing packed houses in Concord, whenever he comes.

"Buffalo Bill" is to perform in his new drama at Farwell Hall next Saturday evening, 20th. The following from a contemporary shows what is thought of [?] his company. Buffalo Bill came again as usual to a packed overflowing house, hundreds turned away unable to get even standing room. Prairie Waif, his new drama, is the strongest border drama ever produced. Bill himself showed to splendid advantage. His rifle-shooting beats anything we ever saw. The company supporting is a strong one--all are good. The Indians are the pur genuine article. Bill always performs just what he adevertises and more too, hence the secret of his success. He always has big houses and justly deserves them. Come again, Bison williiam, you are always welcome."--Clinton Age.

BEHOLD AND WONDER!!! BUFFALO BILL'S BONANZA SATIRICAL MANAGERS, PAUSE AND MEDITATE. FIGURES NEVER LIE! READ ONE WEEK'S RECEIPTS! WHEELING, W. Va., Matinee and Night.........................$1,092.80 ZANESVILLE, OHIO..........................................................614.00 NEWARK, OHIO................................................................435.00 COLUMBUS, OHIO..........................................................1,240.90 SPRINGFIELD, OHIO..........................................................664.35 DAYTON, OHIO..................................................................936.75

Total for Week.....................................................................$4,983.80 Expenses for Week................................................................1,480.75

Profit for Week...................................................................$3,503.05

TEN WEEKS ON THE ROAD AND TOTAL RECEIPTS.................$31,985 TOTAL EXPENSES FOR TEN WEEKS.........................................13,474

CLEARED ON TEN WEEKS.........................................................$18,511

HON W. F. CODY. Proprietor and Manager, JOSH E. OGDEN, Business Manager, COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, Treasurer and Press Agent, BUFFALO BILL COMBINATIONS.

During the Fire Act, BUFFALO BILL will Exhibit his MARVELOUS RIFLE SHOOTING, Which Has Distinguished Him as One of the Greatest Marksmen the World Has Ever Produced. Also, Introducing in the First Act, the Only Groupe of Genuine Frontier Indian Chiefs, Who Will Appear in National Camping Scenes and Exhibition of Archery [word] [?] nces, Customary Ceremonies, Etc., Etc., Etc. In preparation and Will be produced THURSDAY, December 25, and until Farther Notice, the Great and Most Successful Western Drama, Entitled May Cody; or Lost and Won. The Drama Will Be Preceeded By a Roaring Farce. BUFFALO BILL'S Orchestra and Military Band Will lead the parade made daily in each city. Each musician is a soloist and especially engaged at extravagent salaries to make this feature a conspicuous part of the new combination, and which is convincing guarantee, under the leadership of Prof. RAMPONE, of Gilmore's Garden, N. Y. A WIDE-AWAKE BOOK The Life of Buffalo Bill, Written by himself, will be for sale during the performance. Agents wanted. Address the publisher, Frank F[word] Bliss, Hartford, Conn., or apply to Buffalo Bill personally. PRICES OF ADMISSION AS USUAL. Reserved seats to be had at the Box Office from 9 a. m. till 10 p.m.

ST. CHARLES THEATRE! HOLIDAY WEEK! COMMENCING SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1879. MATINEES WEDNESDAY and SUNDAY and CHRISTMAS PRESENT MATINEE THURSDAY. Hon. W. F. Cody, BUFFALO BILL! And His Mammoth Combination of 24 Artists, INCLUDING A MILITARY BRASS BAND AND ORCHESTRA. Each member having been especially engaged for his respective parts they represent. And to further strengthen the Drama, Mr. Cody has in [word] [word] [word] secured a band of GENUINE INDIAN CHIEFS, who will on this occasion [word] [word] [word] in the Melodrama in 4 acts, written for Buffalo Bill by Colonel [Word] Ingraham, entitled. KNIGHT OF THE PLAINS; OR BUFFALO BILL'S BEST TRAIL.

ACT I.--Prairie of Fire; from the Original Drawing. ACT II.-- Prairie to Parlor-- Buffalo Bill's Death Knot. ACT III.-- The Gambling Hell in Cheyenne-- The Duel. ACT IV.-- Buffalo Bill as the Pony Express Rider-- Robbing the Overland Coach--Buffalo Bill to the Rescue. Buttermilk and His Trained Donkey Jerry.

BUFFALO BILL Yesterday Young America's soul was fired. Buffalo Bill and his troupe of Cheyenne Indians had arrived in town and Fourth of July was nowhere. So eager were they to see the great hero, and the redskins, that they congregated in vast numbers, in front of the United States Hotel, blocking the sidewalks and making such a rumpus that the porter proceeded to cool their ardor with a stream of Sebago from the hotel engine, and a policeman did stalwart service with a rattan. When however the superb William and his decorated Cheyennes mounted their prancing steeds to parade the town, then the excitement rose to the highest pitch. One boy who had been suffering from a raging toothache for a week, making not only himself but his whole family uncomfortable because he could not muster the courage to have the grinder out, begged his sire for fifty cents to see the "Prairie Waif." "My son," said the aged parent, "to induce me to produce the necessary shekel in order that you may see Mr. Bison that tooth must first come out. No tooth drawing, no shekel!" The youth was conquered. What was a moment of agony compared with an evening of bliss. Out came the tooth and last night the brave boy sat in the front row of the balcony.

At 7:30 p. m. the doors of the theatre were besieged. At 8 p.m. the gallery was crowded to repletion and no more money taken at the gallery window. A few moments later down stairs the house was crowded, and standing room sought for. There were over 1200 people in the house and its capacity fully tested Mr. Cody, who prides himself in his accepted name of Buffalo Bill, assumed the chief character in the "Prairie Waif" with a full recognition of its stage demands. His style of acting has conformed to a better model, and he has selected for his company artists who are mindful of the public demand for clever acting. His elocution is in better taste, and his stage associates have been chosen for their personal qualifacations as well as for their dramatic experience and skill. Messrs. R. C. White, Henry Clifton, George T. James, Mr. Allstadt, Miss Lizzie Fletcher and Miss Connie Thompson are well known and gave good satisfaction. The story of the play is especially sympathetic and picturesque, and the scenes are surrounded by an atmosphere of romance that adds to its effectiveness; while Mr. Cody does not fail to avail himself of the use of accomplishments as a rifle shot, which imparts an additional interest to the stirring incidents of the representation. The lighter portions of the performance are made especially amusing by the comic humor Mr. Allstadt and Miss Connie Thompson, the latter of whom adds several comic songs to her repertoire, and sings them with humor and spirit.

BUFFALO BILL. Buffalo Bill had the best house last night since the opening of the new theatre. Every seat was occupied and most of the standing room. The entertainment was of a higher dramatic order than any hitherto produced by Buffalo Bill's companies in this city. The principal actor seems to have studied to improve himself in the art, and he has really meritorious support. Buffalo Bill exhibited his skill in rifle shooting, and the Indians went through their war songs and dances. The fun was supplied by Mr. Allstadt, who is a good Dutch comedian, and Miss Connie Thompson, who is a good singer. The performance will be repeated to-night.

Howard Athenaum. William F. Cody ("Buffalo Bill") faced a packed auditorium last night, as he always does here. The play is "The Prairie Waif." Opportunity is afforded for fancy rifle-shooting and war dances by a band of Indians who accompany the ex-scout.

BUFFALO BILL. A Few Facts Regarding This Noted Indian Fighter. There are, no doubt, thousands of people who read the newspaper notices and strreet advertisements of "Buffalo Bill," who have an honest opinion that Mr. Cody is an Indian fighter and Western guide only when treading the boards of a theater; they have an idea that he is a scout only on paper and in the lives of his dramas and they turn from a contemplation of his pictures with the half-smothered exclamation "Humbug!" It is unfortunate that persons who hold this opinion of Mr. Cody canot become acquainted, or at least have an interview, with "Buffalo Bill." They would find him a courteous, genial gentleman, with an excellent knowledge of human nature in general and of the Western people in particular. Not only this; he is a gifted conversationalist, with opinions of his own on public matters, especially on the Indian question and other topic of particular interest to WEstern men. It is not strange that he should be well informed upon such matters. Born in Iowa he moved to Kansas with his family when but a mere lad and resided there for many years. His father, who was what they termed a Free STate man, was killed by the border ruffians during the troubles of 1856. At this time Mr. Cody's father was an intimate friend of Governor Jim Lane, and his son can tell many interesting anecdotes regarding this once prominent public character. Since that time, Mr. Cody has spent his life in various parts of the Western country. He was a scout with the Union army in Southwestern Missouri, and has since served as scout and guide with many commands in several States and Territories. When Nebraska was admitted to the Union as a State Mr. Cody was elected to the State Senate, being the youbngest member of that body. From this it will be seen that his title of "Hon." is not a mere affectation, as some suppose. As an Indian fighter he has gained an enviable reputation among military men, and were an Indian war to break out to-morrow Mr. Cody would probably find himself under marching orders from Gen. Sheridan and would be ready to pilot a brigade through the Western country at very short notive. In the Sioux war of 1876 Mr. Cody took active part and his name frequently occurs in the official reports of that campaign. Mr. Cody's ideas of a successful Indian policy differ radically from any course yet pursued by the United States authorities. He is decidedly of the opinion that the government should furnish Indian agents who have a practical knowledge of the "noble savage," his want, his peculiarities and his sufferings in the past. Says he: "The men who are in charge of the agencies have no real knowledge of the Indian. They come perhaps from New England and they care, not so much for the Indian, as the money which they are able to make out of their positions. In my opinion the Indians are a long suffereing race, and have borne many insults at the hands of the authorities and the settlers. I do not know of a single treaty made with any tribe where the Indians have been the first to break the compact." He has a high opinion of Captain Jack as a General and said he could not but admire the pluck and cunning of the man who could with seventy-two men hold a large body of troops at bay for weeks. At the time of the Custer Massacre Mr. Cody was with Crook's command, thirty-five miles from the scene of that awful slaughter. He is free to say that he thinks the deaths of Custer was due to the cowardice of Major Reno, and he administers a strong rebuke to the man who would allow his commanding officer to be cut down when he could hear the volleys of musketry a mile and a half away. But we have already overstepped our space. Suffice it to say that not only is Mr. Cody everything that he pretends to be on the bills, but more. He is a Western capitalist as well as a professional actor, and is owner in an extensive cattle ranch at North Platte, Nebraska, where he now has nearly 8000 head of cattle. It is here he passes the summer months at work among his stock, living in the saddle and breathing the air of our Western prairies. In conclusion we would say to these who have laughed at Mr. Cody as a humbug, that he is no such. He is a true Western man, and a fine specimen of the class.

Buffalo Bill. Smyth's Opera House was packed nearly to its utmost capacity of Saturday evening by the numerous friends and admirers of Hon. William F. Cody, who is known the world over as Buffalo Bill, the government guide and military chief of scouts for the United States army. The play presented by the company was the "Prairie Waif." a new piece written for Mr. Cody by John A. Stevens, the author of "The Phenix" and "Unknown." The piece is by far the best ever brought out by Mr. Cody, and in the three prominent characters he assumed he did himself credit. The "Prairie Waif" contains some very strong points and may rank properly as a border drama of a high standard. The supporting company was excellent throughout and Miss Lizzie Fletcher as Onita, (the waif)won many appreciative tokens from the audience by her graceful appearance and charming acting. Miss Thompson as Sadie was extremely pleasing, and her song and dance in the company with Hans (Mr. Wm. Altstadt), was a feature of the evening. Mr. White as Mark Stanley, the alleged father of the waif, dispalyed some first class talent in his roll and Mr. Charles as the jolly Irish captain, was popular with those in front of the footlight. To add to the proper production special scenery was provided and an excellent orchestra was also engaged. The band of Indians gave a scalp and war dance which of course pleased the younger portion of the audience more especially. The "Prairie Waif" is a play that deserves the eminent success that it is being accorded, and Mr. Cody may feel proud of his nonth annual tour.

Buffalo Bill. Norombega Hall was literally packed last evening, on which occasion the Buffalo Bill Combination presented the drama entitled "OPrairie Waif." People began to flock towards the hall at an early hour, and long before the curtain rose it was necesfary to stop the sale of the regular admission tickets, every seat being taken, withthe exception of a few of those which were reserved. It was estimated that the audience numbered eleven hundred persons, and the receipts amounted to six hundred dollars. The play, which seemed to give excellent satisfaction, abounds in timely rescues of the "Prairie Waif," Miss Lizzie Fletcher, form redskins and white fleds; in which Buffalo Bill, of cours, figured conspicuously, to the delight of his many admirers. During the evening Bill gave an exhibition of his wonderful skill as shootist, which received a deserved recognition from the audience. The play will be repeated this evening and will undoubtedly be attended by another large audience.

The Buffalo Bill Combination which held forth in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, had a crowded house. A notive to the effect that "standing room only, 35 cents," could be octained, was, early in the eveing, placed on the ticket box. The show was pleasing to some,w hile others thought it a mighty coarse affair far beneath what they expected from the renowned scout.

tirement." ----------------

Buffalo Bill drew a large audence last evening. The fallery gods were in their element. The drama of "The Prairie Waif" is of a highly sensational order; but it is of absorbing interest, and some of the situations are intensely dramatic. The leading parts were well sustained, and the appearance of Buffalo Bill was the signal for a storn of vociferous applause. Of course he was the bright particular star of teh eveing. Miss Fletcher, the heroine, is a fine actess of the emotional class; and Miss Thompson made a pretty soubrette. Jim Hardy, one of the Danites, as personated by Harry Clifton, was nicely done. Hans, the Dutchman, was an amusing feature. As an incident tot he drama, Buffalo Bill exhibited some wonderful fancy shooting, holding his rifle in abuot every imaginable position. A band of Cheyenne Indians performed a war dance to the music of their instruments,a nd excited considerable interest.

BUFFALO BILL. The Buffalo Bill Combination mae their second appearance in this city last evening before a fair audience. The play was presented smoothly and the different members of the company with one or two exceptions, made the most of their respective parts.The stage settings in the latter part of the first act, representing a prairie scene, and Buffalo Bill's home in the second act, were very fine. It is expected that the company will visit this city again another season.

Amusements. Buffalo Bill made this city his annual visit yesterday, creating a great excitement among the small boys by his stree parade at noon with his brass band, Indians, and other features. In the evening he appeared at the city hall to a large audience. The play, "Prairie Waif," is a new one, but does not differ greatly from its predecessors. Buffalo Bill's acting is composed principally of appearing whenever the situation gets a little involved, and straightening it out by shooting the msot obstteperous characters. This generally has the desired effect and the play proceeds amid great applause. We missed the Irishman and darkey, who have usually furnished so large a part of the comedy element of the dramas, although a donkey and a Dutchman struggled hard to fill the void.

HOWARD ATHEN HUM.-- This [houoe?] was last eveing crowded to its utmost limits to witness the performance of the ever-popular "Buffalo Bill," who with his well selected company appeared in John A. Stevens' exciting drama, "The Prairie Waif." Mr. W. F. Cody has made for himself a name all over the American continenet and he and his troupe are welcomed whereever they go. His appearance last night was the signal for most hearty applause, and the curtain ahd to be raised a second time on each of the many tableaux of the piece. A strange feature and one which delighted the great audience was the introduction of the scalp and war dance by a band of genuine Cheyenne Indians, illustrating the excitement peculiar to the fighting Indian. This troupe of Indians are