The Artist and the Swindler

A case of alleged swindling is to be filed in court today, in which Gustave Kalling, an artist, claims that through the machinations of an attorney he has been cheated out of all his property. The transaction, as told by the artist, is this: Some time ago, he sold a picture to a man named Snook, receiving in return a promise to pay. Kalling was good-natured about the matter and made frequent, though unsuccessful, attempts to collect. He is described as an open, trusting man, and one day announced his intention to return to Sweden, his native land. Kalling states that he would have to sell his property here before leaving. This informed intention led to negotiations with Snook, who offered to handle the property. Kalling owned five lots, and he was asked if he would sell provided sufficient security were given. He said he would, and preparations were made to complete the deal. To effect his object, Snook called to his aid a clerk in his office named Otto Mohr, and the two executed under Kalling's signature fifteen promissory notes for $45 each, running in a monthly series. They also gave Kalling what purports to be a mortgage on the property, but which it is claimed is worthless, and then they closed the deal by paying the artist $10 in cash. The latter, light-hearted and joyous at the terms he had made and the prospect of an immediate visit to the home of his childhood, went to the Scandinavian-American bank and told the story of the transfer to Mr. Chilberg. 'Let me see the mortgage,' was the instant demand made by the banker, and the notice conveyed to Kalling his first inkling that all might not be exactly right. 'This mortgage is not good. You have signed your property away,' Mr. Chilberg said. 'We must go to a lawyer at once and see what can be done.' Kalling gasped for breath and moved toward the door, but before he could get outside he fell senseless. He struck heavily against the stony floor and was badly hurt by the shock. It took some time before he could be brought to. Then the matter was placed in the hands of an attorney, and the papers are now ready to be filed.