He's Still Active At 88 As Editor

Iowa, 1909

D. N. Harris, editor of the Missouri Valley Times, is 88 years old and active and vigorous in his work. All his life he has remained in the work, and he shows no signs of wearing out.

In a recent issue of his paper he gives a few words in explanation of why he is still with us. They are modestly uttered, but nevertheless filled with valuable information. He remembered his creator in the days of his youth and has kept right along at it and so, according to the promise, he is living long in "the land which the Lord the God giveth."

This is the way Mr. Harris says it: "We are asked, almost daily, how we manage to retain our good health and apparent youth to the good old age of 88 years. We have no particular formula for extending life, but think it is more the goodness of God than any effort of ours. We recognize the law that gives the life of man to three score years and ten (70 years), but for cause may be extended.

"We have always taken good care of No. 1. Have lived temperate, having been a member of every temperance organization from the Washingtonians way back in the '40s down to the Good Templars, so you see that excluded intoxicating liquor from our use. We neither smoke nor chew tobacco and for many years, just before retiring at night, we drink a bowl of hot lemonade and go to bed and sleep as soundly as an innocent babe. We have never had a rheumatic pain, and while it may not be from our way of living, is certainly worth a trial. We divide our time into three equal parts, going to bed at 10 p.m., and rising at 7 a.m., and attend to business during the balance of the time. We married at 23 years of age, raising ten children, all now living.

"This is our life, good or bad as it may be, and if worthy of trial, try it. Remember, we do not say this manner of life will prolong your life, but we do say we are 88 years old, well and hearty, and willing to try it for 40 years longer."