The Petty Feud Over the Lake Washington Canal

A fight is being waged upon the Lake Washington canal, in which Tacoma and chambers of commerce in towns in which Tacoma's influence has some weight are taking an active part. They are endeavoring to prevent any appropriation being made or the passage of Senator Squire's bill, which has already been practically agreed on in the Senate commerce committee. It is understood that these cities are petitioning against any appropriation being made, and insist that such a canal will cost a great deal more than the benefit to be derived therefrom. In retaliation it is understood that certain people are making an effort to prevent any action being taken upon the Puyallup Indian reservation bill, and these internal quarrels in the state are being noised about and will probably result in a defeat of legislation of importance to both cities and to the state at large. In urging upon Congress the importance of the Lakes Union and Washington canal, Senator Squire has no other object than to do what is best for his state and for the nation as a whole. He and other public men recognize the importance of having a fresh water harbor which will be within reach of the large naval vessels of the Pacific coast. Not only that, but it will open up large commercial interests and manufacturing establishments on these lakes, which will be connected with Puget Sound, and for this reason he thinks that the whole state will be benefited and no section injured by the construction of the canal. He, as well as other statesmen, are much surprised that any opposition should be developed in that state against so important a project.