"Uncle John!" That's what every one in Eureka Springs called him, from the children to the old and grey. He was a big, jovial soul, and made friends at first sight. Being playful with the children, affable with the adults, and sympathetic with the sick and the aged, there was no wonder that the Pence House was popular with its guests. But then all the credit was not due to Uncle John. There was a little black-eyed, dark-haired woman there, who had a kindly way of giving John advice, to which he is attentive, and she deserved a big slice of the praise, and we knew Uncle John wouldn't guarrel with people for saying so. They conducted the Pence House for many years, and each year had the pleasure of entertaining guest of former years. The Pence had thirty-six rooms, and they entertained guests all year round, and their rates were not exorbitant. Mr. and Mrs. Bridgford were true Southerners, were endowed with Southern hospitality, and made it their business to make their guests happy. The Pence was located on the prettiest Boulevard of the City (the address is now 222 Spring Street, on the Historic Loop), and was on the street car line, within easy walking distance of all the principal points of interest to the city. "Uncle John" and "Biddy" came to Eureka Springs in 1880, they were among the leading citizens of the resort, and Uncle John said one time "I have lived in Eureka Springs twenty-seven years net July, and I want to live one hundred years in the same place." And he looked as if he could.