SILAS H. CARPENTER

It would be interesting to read a history of Silas H. Carpenter, chief of the city détective force, and his association with police work, not only in this city and in tliis province, but ail over the continent No one else in Canada, perhaps, has had a wider expérience in dealing with criminals and no one has shown a deeper compréhension of their character. Chief Carpenter is, par excellence, the example of the successful police oiïïcer. He was born in the township of Chatham, county of Argenteuil, P. Q., January 29th, 1854^ and is the son of Thomas W. Carpenter and Marjorie Sweeny. His preliminary éducation was obtained at the Common School of the district, and was completed at the High School at Ottawa.

Chief Carpenter is a born police ofïicer. While still young — he was but 26 years old — he joined the Montréal police force. He was promoted rapidly and became lieutenant in 1882, and détective in 1885. About this time, Mr. Carpenter resigned his position and established, with Mr. John A. Grose, the Canadian Secret Service, where he worked as chief détective of the Provincial Government. While at the head of this institution, Chief Carpenter was engaged in many important cases and not only maintained, but enhanced the réputation he had made for himself, as a police officer.

In 1896, Montréal wanted a chief of détectives. The position was offered to Mr. Carpenter, who was finally persuaded to accept it. He was appointed chief of détectives December 24th, 1896.

In December 1874, Chief Carpenter married Miss F. M. Phoebe Gilbert. He married a second time, in 1896, Miss Clara J. TroUope.

Upon the occasion of the visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York to Canada, Cliief Carpenter was selected to accompany the royal party as a spécial service officer and personal body guard.