The Evening Argus

THE PANCOAST Case.

The Davenport Democrat, in its account of the Pancoast robbery, described in our paper of yesterday, says:

There can be no doubt in the public mind that Pancoast was a great thief, but it is barely possible that he is not guilty of one half of which he is accused. Enough is known, probably, to send him to the penitentiary, though even that remains to be seen. If he goes to trial there will arise some very close questions as to identification. Some of the goods found in his possession, the alleged owners will have no hesitancy in swearing to, but the greater portion—even where parties feel confident of being the rightful owners to a moral certainty, can hardly be identified under oath. The prisoner cannot be legally charged with stealing goods that cannot be identified under oath, and the disposition to be made of the case will depend much upon the amount of goods legally identified.

The fact that the accused has been known as a smuggler of goods into the south, directly in defiance of the laws of the land, and for the purpose of gain through aiding rebels in arms, will not create any sympathy in his behalf. Although since he has resided here he has been a petted member of society, a great favorite among lady committees formed for the holy purpose of aiding our sick and wounded soldiers; although he has been excessive in his 'loyalty' to the administration and in virulent and abusive remarks against democrats; although he has been held up by citizens here as the pattern of true patriotism—as a martyr to the cause of the country—that will not stand him in stead at this time.

These things only go to show that he knew full well how to manage the business in which he was engaged—shows how easily men who considered themselves sharp, and women who are old enough to know better—are duped by a smart appearing, fashionably dressed stranger—even though he may have no visible means of support. There are those to whom these remarks apply with great force, and, as a friend, we trust they will read them, and from this time henceforth bear in mind that all is not gold that glitters—that there often beats purer hearts beneath the leather apron of the mechanic than under the silken vestments of the gentleman (?) of leisure.