THE CARROLL FREE PRESS — SEPTEMBER 2, 1842
The Mermaid.
We called yesterday the Pacific Hotel, and saw the long expected and much talked of Mermaid, in possession of Mr. Griffin, an English gentleman now on his way to London. It is certainly a queer fish and has staggered our incredulity beyond measure. It is impossible that it should be other than it appears, viz: an animal with the upper portion of the body resembling the human species, and the lower portion that of a fish. We understand that several professors of Natural History in the city have seen it, and declare that they dare not say that it has ever lived as at present, every outward appearance indicating that fact. Chambers, Linnæus and other naturalists have decided in favor of the existence of this animal, as also the poet Southey, Sir John Sinclair and others. Many apparently well attested and authentic accounts of their capture have been published, which really go far towards rescuing this animal from the charge of being fabulous.
We are glad to perceive that an opportunity is now so near at hand to place this matter in a tangible shape. Our only regret is, that the national pride of Mr. Griffin has determined him, in the face of large pecuniary inducements to have it exhibited publicly in England before submitting it to general examination in America. —N. Y. Courier & Enquirer.
Carroll Free Press. (Carrollton, [Ohio]), 02 Sept. 1842. Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers. Lib. of Congress.
