Seattle Packs the Armory to Bet on a Canal

The meeting held at Armory Hall last night was one of the most enthusiastic meetings ever held in this city. It indicated very clearly that the Seattle spirit still survives and, when occasion requires, can be called into vigorous life. The Armory was crowded to the doors, the hour was bright and to the point, and the enthusiasm of the audience knew no bounds.

The most interesting feature of the evening, however, was the presence of Mr. Henry Pemple Ames, of St. Louis, and his statement, made through the chairman of the meeting, that he and his associates meant business, and that if the people of Seattle would do their part the people of St. Louis would do the rest.

When Mr. Ames says a thing he means it, and it may therefore be accepted as a fact absolutely assured that all that now remains to be done to insure the completion of this magnificent enterprise is for the people of Seattle to raise without delay the required subsidy. A subscription start was made last night, and the work should be vigorously pushed until the entire amount is raised. Everybody should give, because everybody can afford to give. It is purely a business proposition with every person who has property or business interests in Seattle. The advantage that will accrue to those interests by the carrying through of this enterprise cannot be exaggerated.