Ste. Genevieve Herald, Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, Saturday, Jan. 3, 1885. -- John Ayers probably knows by this time that it is not well done to fool around the yard with a loaded gun. On Friday of last week he did so and, the consequence was, Mr. Mitchell's best horse had a hole put through his body. It was supposed that the animal's bladder was hurt, but at last accounts he was still alive. "Touch not, handle not." -- Our readers will perhaps be surprised to see the HERALD appear this week as a half sheet. We know they will excuse us when they come to think that this is the first time since the establishment of the paper that we ask their indulgence. Besides, they will have their full 52 numbers, a year, without counting the half sheet, within three years, as they gain one week's issue on us in 1887; the first volume commenced May 6, 1882, the sixth will commence April 30, 1887. -- Sheep-pelt and felt-boots excellent for people troubled with rheumatism, also a large assortment of foot-wear suitable for all who are not inclined to go barefooted the coming winter. Call at 28-6w C. BAUM 'S. -- We learn from the Jefferson Democrat that a party of peddlers - they call themselves Chicago men -- has made its appearance in Jefferson county, and is fleecing the people to the tune of $75 or thereabouts for goods that could be got much cheaper at home. It don't appear whether they also tell thrilling tales to move the sympathizing hearts of the simple country folk, as did the Frenchman, some time ago, who sold the costly imported shawl intended as a present for his sister, whom he could not find, at a ridiculously low price, just to get a little money to take him on his way to New Orleans, where his sister was reported to be, and who had succeeded in disposing of a dozen or so of the shawls, before the people became aware that he was a swindler. All we have to say in regard to such transactions is: Buy your necessaries at home, where a merchant cannot afford to take the advantage of you, and not of strangers whom you may never see again and who are certainly not looking out for your benefit.