The Proprietor of Maison Dore Defends His Business

Within the past two days an article has appeared in an evening paper of this town, denunciatory to the Maison Dore and its management, that was not only unjust but entirely untrue. A little fracas occurred a few evenings since that never should have been referred to, and a 'mountain' was made out of a 'mole hill' by those who, when swilling for months or as long as their faces would stand it, suddenly experienced the temperance religion and, joining the Army of Salvation, commenced an aggressive warfare on all who sell liquor and keep places of public amusement. The trouble referred to is the first that has occurred during the existence of the Maison Dore, and for such an institution, where thousands congregate weekly, I challenge the whole Pacific coast to show one more orderly conducted. Some of the best men of Seattle have spent their evenings in the theatre, and captains of steamers and sailing vessels feel no hesitancy in visiting the Maison Dore and attending the theatre. The Herald has no occasion to fear for Messrs. Yesler and Leary, as far as their property is concerned, for I watch proceedings myself, and am well able to manage the business, the sober, religious, fastidious gentlemen who comprise the editorial force of the paper referred to, to the contrary, notwithstanding. I have taken especial interest in my theatre to make it what the Herald and other local papers have reported it to be, viz: a credit to the town of Seattle, and I sincerely hope that none of the editors of our local papers have or will take umbrage at the action of my employees who have been authorized by me to expel from the theatre entrance all persons who might be under the influence of liquor to such an extent as to make them a nuisance to other patrons of the institution.