The Mysterious Disappearance of a Squak Valley Farmer

The mysterious disappearance of R. W. Barto, a farmer who owns a ranch on Squak slough, near Redmond, is worrying his friends. He left his home on the 23d of July, stating to Henry Bohle, who lives with him, that he would return soon. He borrowed a small sum of money, about $30, from Bohle before leaving, and, so far as can be learned, that is all the money he had in his possession. Since then no trace of him has been found, and his friends are beginning to think that he has been foully dealt with or that he is dead. Mr. Barto came to Seattle from Dakota about ten years ago and took up a piece of land in the Squak valley. He was a Bohemian by birth, but had lived in this country many years. Mr. H. T. Hannon, who was one of his few intimate friends, said last night that when he had last had any conversation with Mr. Barto, about three weeks ago, Barto had told him that he was not feeling well, and that he was worrying over the condition of his health and over money matters. From his ranch to Lake Washington, where he was accustomed to take the steamer for Seattle, is about four miles through the heavy timber, and there is a bare possibility that he was murdered and robbed while on his way to the boat landing. Inquiries have been made in all directions and search of all the lodging houses and hospitals has been made by Mr. Hannon without finding any trace of the missing man. The police also have the case in hand.