The Price of Independence

The Chronicle indulged in another talk in the interest of the Northern Pacific Railroad. It consisted mainly of aspersions and perversions of fact which are either absolutely reckless or based upon information totally false. The aspersions and threats are not too fearful to be borne. The perversion of fact, however, should be pointed out, lest some may be deceived. The Chronicle says its effect—that is, the effect of the independence of Seattle—has been to turn back the tide of capital flowing to the city for investment. The truth is, that it is simple nonsense to seek a local cause for the depression now prevailing. Every man who reads a newspaper knows that the depression is as broad as the land. So far as Seattle is concerned, the depression is less severe here than in almost any other city similarly situated. According to R.G. Dun & Co.’s commercial agency, the number of firms doing business in Seattle has increased by five per cent within the past six months, while that in Tacoma has remained stationary.