From The Canisteo Times

Syms: Poor Robinson, I'm told was killed by hard drink.
Smyles: Yes, he was struck on the head with a cake of ice.
(CT 1888)

Giles: Did he tell you he couldn't speak French?
Merritt : No Giles.
Giles: Then how do you know.
Merritt: He spoke some. (CT 1888)