Daily Davenport Gazette

Erie—Just Retribution.—Retributive justice has overtaken this town. Read what the Constitution of that place says:-

"It will be frankly confessed by the candid observer, that no calamity has ever befallen an American city half so blighting and disastrous in its consequences as the result of the incomprehensible war upon the Lake Shore Railroad has proven to the city of Erie. In the dawn of the troubles Erie was buoyant with hope—rich in the promise of future thrift, enjoying the good opinion and kind regards of the country; but, alas her morning glories have been suddenly obscured by an eclipse of adversity, which at present threatens to be not only total, but perpetual. It is said by the infatuated authors of this unparalleled crusade of folly and crime, that the war is as yet but just begun. If this be true, we pity the fate of those who shall survive the close, for even thus far in its progress we find our treasury exhausted, burdensome debts contracted for our citizens to pay—the rate of city taxation doubled—the value of property depreciated—our population diminishing daily and all emigration hither closed against us by reason of our infamous reputation abroad. As an evidence of our retrograde march, look at our public houses, and the manner in which they are supported. Where is the American, the Perry, Banner, Lafayette Franklin, Washington, Erie and United States Hotel. Is, that once were crowded with guests upon business and pleasure? They, like tired soldiers, have retired from the ranks, leaving no necessity for substitutes in their stead. Look at our merchants and hear their complaints; the numbers that have already closed their shops and stores, and others preparing to weigh anchor as early as their crafts shall be trimmed for the voyage. Where is the crowd of merchants that, until recently, was busily engaging in improving, building up and beautifying the city! They, from necessity, have removed to regions where the arts of peace are cultivated more, and the horrors of war practiced less than in Erie."