THERE WILL BE NO LYNCHING.
All honor to the much excited and over-much exercised citizens of Lafayette parish.
The Blanc brothers - the cruel murderers of Martin Begnaud will not be lynched; ours is a law abiding people.
Upon all sides is heard the cry of "Let the law take its course." That's right! - Vengeance is mine saith the Lord, and our people fully realize the meaning of these momentous words.
These unfortunate benighted youths, actors of most heinous crime, will be granted a fair and impartial trial by law, and Dame Pic and others will learn to know that our population is not addicted to mob laws etc., but devoted to law and order. Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897:
Who doubts but that Ernest and Alexis will hang for their monstrous crime? No one; but all hands ask that justice be meted on to the young assassins in due form of law and with as little delay as is compatible with the common decencies of the law. Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897.
Throngs Attracted to Court House Square.
There was a great throng of people in town last Wednesday, attracted by the trial of the Blanc Bros.,for the murder the murder of Martin Begnaud, and much disappointment was manifested when it became known that the trial was postponed to next Thursday. The crowd of curiosity seekers remained in town throughout the entire day, distracting and enjoying themselves in various ways, nearly every one paying a visit to the popular, big store of Moss Bros. & Co. to buy some little thing or other they needed to bring home on their return. It was this circumstance that led some one to remark that the place of greatest interest after the court house.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897.
Two Thousand People.
Fully two thousand people were in town Wednesday to attend the Blanc bros. trial, not having heard of the unexpected postponement. A good spirit was shown by all and a universal desire was held that the law be allowed to take its course.
On Tuesday the attorneys appointed by the Court to defend the Blanc brothers came into court and on motion, stating reasons, asked to be released from the case. Judge Debaillon took this motion under advisement, and at a special session in the afternoon, appointed Hon. C. H. Mouton of St. Martinville and Col. Gus. A. Breaux practicing at this bar to defend the prisoners, both gentlemen accepted the charge, and to allow sufficient time for the preparation of the defense the court set the case for next Thursday, Feb. 25th.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897:
"The Anti-Scalpers Law."
From the New Orleans Times-Democrat, Feb. 6, 1897.
"Congress has at last attacked that growing abuse, ticket brokerage, or scalping, as it is popularly called, which preys upon the railroads and traveling public; and a bill is now before the House favorably reported from the committee on commerce to be voted on February 16th. If public sentiment declares in its favor the bill will be passed, as Congressmen are willing to do whatever the people want in this matter, and it is for this reason that the Times-Democrat appeals to the Exchanges and under commercial bodies of New Orleans to aid, by their sympathy and support, the success of this bill. The Interstate Commerce Commission has already declared in favor of such a law as proper and necessary. The commerce committee of the House is being flooded with petitions asking for its passage. The merchants and business men of St. Louis are unanimous in its favor, and petitions by the score from have come from St. Paul and Minneapolis, the commercial bodies of the twin cities having been stirred to action. Perhaps no city in the Union is more interested in getting rid of the scalpers than New Orleans, the scalping business keeping away thousands of winter visitors from the city, and actually causing higher rates here during our carnival, season than would otherwise exist.
"In the consideration of the matter Congress should be guided by the effect of the proposed law on the people. The scalpers do not deserve the slightest business, if not an illegitimate one, is yet very devious, and an encouragement of violation of the law. It is based, upon the theory of beating the railroads, the scalpers telling the public that they will let it into the transaction and divide the plunder. That the railroads lose millions annually on their passenger business by scalping is true, but the public receives no benefit whatever from this plundering. The money goes into the pockets of the scalpers, not a few of whom are millionaires, and all that the public gets from the business is limited, ironclad tickets and various other inconveniences.
"It is not in the interest of the railroads, however that Congress proposes to interfere by putting a stop to the scalping business, but in that of the traveling public. Let us see how it and the larger cities, particularly New Orleans, are affected by the inconveniences to which they are subjected.
"The railroads and the scalpers have have been carrying on a warfare for years, the former finding necessary various protective measures to prevent inroads into their business. Originally the railroads sold unlimited tickets, good until they were used, and with the privilege of stopping over at points on their lines. This was most convenient in many ways, and the public appreciated it; but when the scalpers, or ticket brokers, came into existence the railroads found it necessary in order to protect their interests to adopt the limited ticket. This change not breaking up the scalping business, they went a step further and issued the ironclad signature ticket - which the traveling public has found annoying; then they required descriptive mileage tickets and withdrew all stop over privileges. Thus the worst victim in this struggle has been the traveler, who is subjected to numerous annoyances in order to assure the railroad companies protection from scalpers. The former have lost money and the public has been inconvenienced simply that the scalpers might plunder the railroads.,
"Mr. F. S. Wilkins, general secretary of the Baptist Young People's Association, with headquarters at Chicago, telegraphed the committee on commerce a few days ago, apropos of the anti-scalping bill now before Congress, as follows:
On behalf of our constituency of 1,000,000 or more - the Baptist Young People's Union of America - promote the passage of the anti-scalping bill. We are utterly opposed to all improper manipulation of tickets, which our experience in holding our large annual conventions demonstrates is always the case so long as ticket scalpers exist. We fully believe it for the best interests of the public that such legislation as in now before Congress should be enacted.
"Mr. Wilkinson is right. The railroads are prevented from giving better rates to conventions, and to other public gatherings of that kind, simply because they know that if they do it will be playing into the hands of the scalpers.
"New Orleans and all the other commercial centers of the country are thus deeply interested in getting rid of the scalpers, for as long as they prey on the revenues of the railroad companies it is impossible for the latter to grant reduced round trip tickets to the larger cities.
'
Unreadable paragraph.
New Orleans is further injured by the withdrawal of the stop-over privilege that passengers enjoyed before the railroad is abolished to protect themselves. The passenger going from New York to San Francisco or vice-versa, by way of New Orleans, would be almost certain to stop here a few days and see the sights; but, unfortunately, he cannot do so. His ticket is 'limited,' his trip must be continuous, and he cannot stop anywhere en-route. The railroads would be very glad to return to the old system of 'stop-overs,' but they cannot do so as long as this privilege gives the scalpers new opportunities to plunder them. And thus, in order that a few scalpers may live at the expense of the railroads thousands of passengers pass through this city annually without spending an hour or a dollar here, when they would like to do so, and when a score of business would be benefited if they were allowed to stop here. The travel through this city between the Atlantic and Pacific has grown to immense proportions of late years, but New Orleans enjoys from it none of the advantages it should - and all because of the scalpers.
"New Orleans is not in the line of the short rate-making route between densely populated portions of our country or leading commercial centers. These short lines make the rate, and the business passing through this city is prorated by the lines in interest, who do not receive as high a rate per mile. Stop-over privileges, therefore, are impossible as long as the scalpers carry on their trade.
"It is the same as to mileage tickets. Our commercial bodies would like to have the rates reduced, the tickets made interchangeable and more available; but it is impossible to entertain this idea as long as the scalper is permitted to manipulate these tickets, as he would certainly do.
"We find, therefore, that the scalping business has injured the railroads, cutting off profits in their passenger business and reducing their dividends; that it has done away with the stop-over privileges formerly enjoyed; prevented cheaper, more available and more convenient tickets, prevented reduced rates for conventions, festivals, etc., and subjected the general public to great annoyance, inconveniences and expense. Taking New Orleans as an example, it has prevented thousands of people from coming here who would like to do so, and thousands of others from stopping over who desire to. When it is considered that the only beneficiaries of the system are a few scalpers, carrying on their trade mainly (as side issues) in cigar shops and similar places. Congress is certainly acting in the public interest when it proposes to break up their business, allowing the railroads all they entitled to for passenger transportation and assuring the public cheaper rates and greater convenience in traveling. The public and the railroads will, if the law is passed, divide the profits now pocketed by the scalpers. The railroads can afford to reduce rates and yet get more from their passenger business than do now, the profits of the scalpers being eliminated; and the public will enjoy further advantages and privileges.
"For these reasons all the pressure possible, particularly from New Orleans, should be brought to bear on Congress to assure the passage of the anti-scalper's law." From the N. O. States and in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897.
Mardi Gras in Lafayette. Though late in making a beginning, Lafayette will do itself marked credit in its initial celebration of Mardi-Gras, after the fashion of New Orleans and lesser places in the state. A large source of skilled mechanics and talented artists has been at work day and night since the movement was first set a foot to observe the event in becoming style, with the result that most gratifying advance has been made and an assurance guaranteed to home people and visitors of a street pageant with highly pleasing spectacular effect. The brilliant regal costumes to be worn by the King and his court and the five (unreadable word) and their retinues have been engaged at a great monetary outlay, and will be a feature of the occasion.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897:
Police Jury.
(This is part 2 of Police Jury business involving a jail built by the Pauly Jail Building Co. appearing in the Advertiser of 2/20/1897. Unfortunately, the issue of the week prior is not available. But, this pretty descriptive in itself.)
Upon completion of said equipments and appurtenances as required by said specifications, and its acceptance by said party, the said party of the second part shall pay to the said party of the first part the sum of $1,295.00 and balance as follows: $1,500 twelve months, and $1,500 twenty-four months after completion and acceptance of said work, with interest rate of eight per cent per annum from date of acceptance until paid, interest payable annually.
It is hereby further agreed by and between the parties hereto as follows:
(1.) Said party shall appoint a Superintendent or Committee, qualified to judge as to the quality and character of the material and work required by this agreement, whose duty it shall be to inspect and report upon the work and material during the construction of said building, and make and furnish estimates of the value of the material furnished for and labor performed thereon from time to time and should any material be furnished therefor, or work be done thereon, which, in his or their opinion, is not in accordance with the requirements of the plans and specifications therefor, it shall be his or their duty to notify said first party thereof, in person or by or by a written notice forwarded by registered mail to its proper address, unless (unreadable words) they and said or its agent or sub-contractor can agree upon the subject in controversy, and the part of the work affected by such notice shall cease and not be resumed until and agreement is reached upon the subject in controversy, or settled by competent authority, and should said Superintendent or Committee permit any part of the work on said building to be completed without objecting thereto and giving notice to said first party as aforesaid, it shall be taken and considered the (unreadable word) as an approval thereof, and said first party shall not thereafter be held responsible therefor, nor be required to reconstruct the same without full and adequate compensation therefor.
(2.) Should any misunderstanding in this agreement arise between the parties hereto in relation to any part of the work or material provided for or embraced under the terms of this agreement, or in relation to any of the stipulations hereof, which cannot be settled between themselves, the matter in controversy shall be referred to two disagreement between said two arbitrators the they shall jointly choose a third, and their decision in the matter shall be final and binding on both parties hereto, and any time lost in the prosecution of the work on said building or its equipments by reason of controversy as to the material or work thereon, shall be allowed to said first party in the final completion thereof.
(3.) Upon final completion of the work embraced in this agreement, the said second party shall examine the same, and if completed according to contract, shall immediately accept the same and make final settlement with said first party therefor, as hereinto fore provided and stipulated; but no such settlement shall be made with, nor any payment be made hereon to any agent of said first party or any other person whomsoever, except to an officer of said party, or upon written order of said first party signed by one of its officers and bearing its corporate seal.
(4.) The foregoing contains all the understandings and agreements had between the parties hereto in relation to the erection and completion of said building and its equipments and appurtenances, and the payments therefor, and neither of said parties is to be held to the performance of any supposed understanding or agreement not herein expressed, or set forth in the specifications referred to herein and made a part thereof.
In testimony whereof, the aforesaid parties hereto have caused duplicate copies hereof to be signed by the proper and duly authorized agents or representatives of the said principles, and attested by the signature and official seal of Clerk of Court of said Parish on the date first written herein.
Chas. D. Caffery, Orther C. Mouton; witnesses.
The Pauly Jail Building & Manufacturing Co.
Signed,
F. B. Hull, Contracting Agent,
Lafayette Parish, La.
(SEAL)
Signed,
R. C. Landry,
Alfred Hebert,
Com. from Police Jury,
Lafayette, Parish, La.
Attest :
E. G. Voorhies, Clerk of Court,
Lafayette Parish La.
AND WHEREAS, said above articles of agreement are in accord and comply fully with the bid made to the police jury by said Pauly Jail Building & Manufacturing Company to construct certain repairs to the Parish Jail of Lafayette Parish, in the plans and specifications attached to and made part of said agreement;
AND WHEREAS, the proposed repairs to said parish prison are absolutely necessary for the safe keeping of parish prisoners and the proper sanitary condition of said parish prison.
THEREFORE, be it ordained by the Police Jury of the Parish of Lafayette in the State of Louisiana, in legal and regular session assembled (a majority of all the members elect of said Police Jury concurring); that the articles of agreement fully set out in the preamble of this ordinance, be, and the same is hereby accepted for and in the name of the Parish of Lafayette, a corporation duly organized under the laws of the State of Louisiana.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, ETC., That the sum of twelve hundred and ninety-five dollars, be, and the same is hereby appropriated out of money in the treasury and out of the first money collected out the revenues of 1896 and 1897, not otherwise appropriated, for the payment of said sum to said Pauly Jail Building and Manufacturing Company on the completion and acceptance of the work provided in the contract set out herein and made part hereof.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, ETC., That as only nine mills on the dollar of the assessed value of the property in Lafayette Parish is required to meet and pay the annual current expenses thereof, leaving one mill on the dollar of the ten mills allowed by law still assessable and collectible annually for other purposes now, in order to provide for the payment of the indebtedness contracted herein for the repairs of the Parish Prison, as aforesaid, and the payments stipulated of fifteen hundred dollars twelve months and fifteen hundred dollars twenty-four months after the completion and acceptance of said proposed work and repairs, with interest at eight per cent per annum from date of completion and acceptance, a tax of one mill on the dollar of the ten mills allowed by law for parochial purposes on the assessed value of taxable property in Lafayette Parish for the years 1897 and 1898, be, and is hereby appropriated, levied and set apart, or enough thereof to pay said debt and interest contracted for the construction of said repairs to the Parish Prison of Lafayette Parish.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, ETC., That the Parish of Lafayette, is hereby instructed, and it is made his mandatory duty to keep apart and separate from other funds of the Parish coming into his hands as such, the sum of twelve hundred and ninety-five dollars out of any money now in the treasury and out of the funds coming into his possession and not otherwise appropriated, for the payment of said sum upon the completion and acceptance of said proposed work and repairs; and to also keep apart and separate from other funds of the Parish out of the revenues of the years 1897 and 1898 from the property tax for said years one mill of the taxes of said years to be applied to the payment out of these revenues of the debt and interest contracted for the work and repairs on the Parish Prison aforesaid.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, ETC., That any ordinance or part of any ordinance contrary to or in conflict with this ordinance, be, and the same is hereby repealed.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, ETC., That this ordinance shall take effect from and after its passage.
President Landry reported that in conjunction with Mr. Alf. Hebert he had appointed Mr. Wm. Clegg as supervising architect of the repairs and alterations of the Parish Jail. By motion the action of the committee was approved and ratified.
The Treasurer submitted a report showing a cash balance in favor of the Parish of $....
By motion each member of the Jury was requested to report at the next meeting a complete list of all persons subject to license tax in the respective wards for the year 1896.
By motion M. C. C. Brown was appointed assessor for railroads, telegraph and telephone lines for the year 1897, and authorized to represent Lafayette in pursuance of Act 82 of 1888.
A communication from Er. F. Estilette as to weights and measures was laid over.
By motion, the salary of the Clerk was fixed at $200 per annum.
The committee appointed to settle with the Treasurer reported that having checked the books and accounts of said office and finding a cash balance of $1,261.05 as per Treasurer's report this day filed, they had granted unto the Treasurer's report this day filed, they had granted unto the Treasurer's reported that having checked the books and accounts of said office and finding a cash balance of $1,261.05 as per Treasurer's report this day filed, they had granted unto the Treasurer a quieters up to date.
Constable Thos. Mouton submitted a statement of stock sold amounting to $21.75 less $14.25 expenses.
By motion of Mr. Avant, duly seconded, the following ordinance fixing the Parish licenses for the calendar year 1897 was adopted : Yeas-Brown, Avant, Billeaud, Primeaux and Lacy. Nays-None.
There being no further business the Police Jury adjourned.
R. C. LANDRY, Pres.
R. C. Greig, Sec.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897.
ROADS! ROADS!
To Editor Feb. 10, 1897.
DEAR SIR:
It has been my misfortune a few days ago to be compelled to go to Breaux Bridge, and to say the least, I was not overpleased with the state of that road. In fact, I couldn't help but to pity the poor mail carrier and his two mules, compelled every day to be confronted with that glorious stretch of road.
Since then I have read in the Advertiser in an article from the Valley, reproduced with comments by the editor of this paper. This article is to the point, and you cannot but be complimented on your earnest desire to procure to your town the best facilities to communicate with its neighbors. You are arranging the business men's association, but although this association has been incorporated with a view to improvements it seems to us that this is more of the road overseer's business than of the association. From Lafayette to Breaux Bridge you have only two bad pieces of road, one on each side of the Vermilion. These two stretches cannot be worked now, but, if the Breaux Bridge contractor on one side, and the Lafayette overseer on the other, select the proper time to repair the road. I am positive that very nice work can be made. The only thing needed is drainage and on the Lafayette side is (unreadable word) lacking. Let these gentlemen make good ditches, and if possible raise the middle of the road and it will become passable in every season and weather, which will be a genuine surprise to most of us.
Excuse me, Sir, for this encroachment on your privileges, but the press being free in this country, it seems to as if every citizen has the right to express his views, and I am glad to be permitted to praise you when you are doing so good work in the interest of both communities.
The last trip I have made to Breaux Bridge was a revelation to me. Accustomed as I was to see everything in your parish, I was surprised as much as pleased to see you are improving at a great rate. Your roads are positively good, and I have heard that your people are obtaining lands bought with the idea of giving them to an industry which would be willing to cast its future. It is unfortunate that you have no railroad to facilitate communications, but with the spirit of enterprise, which your citizens are endowed, it is only things being considered, an oil mill, (unreadable words) but are only (unreadable word) industries and need much development yet to be able to undertake to carry operations with the people of your parish. But any baby is born to grow, and permit me to hope these very young plants will grow large enough to be able to extend you a helping hand.
Yours truly,
Neighbor.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897.
City Council Proceedings of Feb. 5, 1897:
Among other things....
The following communication was laid over:
To the Hon. The Mayor and members of the City Council of Lafayette, La.
The undersigned respectfully ask permission to be granted to the Louisiana Western Railroad for extending its present existing spur track, known as the Degrez track, Southwardly, crossing second street and continuing over the extreme Southern side of the Alley of Block No. sixteen to the North side of third street, for the purpose of accommodating. "The American Brewing Association of Houston, Texas who propose erecting a cold storage Depot on lots twelve and thirteen of said square sixteen. Respectfully submitted and trust for favorable action as it will give more business for the city and add to its revenues. Lafayette, La. Feb. 1st, 1897.
The Louisiana Western (R. R.)By J. G. Parkerson.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897:
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 2/20/1897.
Gentry's Dog and Pony show, this afternoon and to-night.
Selling dress goods at cost at Racket Store.
Judge C. H. Mouton, of St. Martinville, is attending Court this week in Lafayette.
The Ruby Lafayette Co. in a four act drama, at the Opera House Sunday.
Mrs. E. Mayfield went to Palestine, Texas Wednesday where she expects to reside permanently.
Mrs. M. T. Gorday, wife of our District Attorney, is stopping at the Rigues House.
Mr. F. H. Gregory is able to be out among his friends, after a severe attack of rheumatism.
Miss Ophelia Broussard, of Carencro, was in town Wednesday.
Mrs. Alfred Voorhies of Houston is in town visiting relatives.
Miss Cora Desbrest has been on the sick list this week and during her absence from duty, Mr. L.
Lyle of New Iberia has charge of the telephone exchange.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of February 20th, 1869:
BAD WEATHER.
The wind on last Saturday night was very disastrous on Cote Gelee, in this parish. The Royville church, with its high and commanding steeple was leveled to earth, likewise the residence of Dr. Young, the cotton gin of Messrs. Billaud & Pellerin, and several other buildings in the same neighborhood, too numerous to mention. We heartily sympathize with the sufferers. Fortune sometimes repays her frowns with many a smile.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1869.
Recommended Steamer Travel.
Here we are again kind readers; just arrived from a trip to the City, that city whose countless and peerless beauties lie by the turbid tide of the mighty father of waters. Our trip was most agreeable, in going as well as on our homeward trip we traveled on the Warren Belle; we would be unjust should we not recommend that Steamer to our traveling public, it accommodations are No. 1, its speed as sures unfailing junction with the Rail-Road; and who has traveled on her deck can never forget the urbanity of manners and vigilant solicitude of her captain E. B. Trinidad, for the comfort and safety of his passengers ; the never ceasing attention and punctuality of her clerk Mr. N. B. Millard, and last but not least, at the bar, well replenished with the best the city can afford, the wearied traveler will find John B. Boneno ever ready to wait upon him, and warm his soul and body with the best of beverage.
(Author unknown-Published in the Lafayette Advertiser from 2/20/1869.
Salles Returned. - Mr. L. E. Salles is again to be seen behind his grocery counter, he has returned from the old Crescent and brought with him a select portion of its delectables. His stock in the grocery line is complete and cannot fail to give satisfaction to purchasers. Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1869.
Dugas is Back. - Our old friend and townsman Rosemond Dugas has just returned from the City with a lot of the choicest goods the Capital can afford, his prices are moderate, give him a call. We would be happy to see him liberally patronized. Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1869.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of February 20th, 1914:
LAFAYETTE MOTOR CAR CO. SELLS THREE OVERLANDS.
The Lafayette Motor Car. Co., agents for the celebrated Overland automobiles, have just received three of these splendid cars, one a roadster. sold to Dr. L. O. Clark, and the other two fine passenger touring cars, sold to J. A. Roy and O. C. Mouton, respectively. The cars are all electric lighted and equipped with self-starter and all and all other modern conveniences that are found on cars which cost the twice the money.
The Overland is one of the very best cars for the money made, and in fact the service it gives places it in a class with much higher priced cars. For all practical purposes as well as comfort, the Overland has proved that it is right there with the goods. Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1914.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of February 20th, 1907:
THE "DEADLY PARALLEL" AND OUR REPLY.
Below we have arranged in parallel columns an article from the Democrat of Feb. 16, giving heading, comment and the editorials reproduced from The Advertiser and our reply:
CITY COUNCIL HIGHLY PRAISED
The Advertiser Contributes Strong Testimony to the Wise and Efficient Administration of City Affairs - Let the People Read and Judge for Themselves.
The Democrat offers below several editorial expressions made by the Lafayette Advertiser last year on several matters of public importance to the town. As these articles were written carefully and deliberately before the heat of battle, and evidently for no political effect, we commend them to the people for consideration just at this time, in deadly parallel to the present severe and unjust arraignment of the Council by the same paper and the advocates of the new ticket.
If the new Council deserved so much praise for the first year of its term it is entitled to still more credit for the second year of administration now closing.
The Council has gone the first year one better, and a statement published in another article gives the proof. Let every fair-minded citizen judge for himself and, as it were, "appeal from Philip drunk to Philip sober" from the heated political expressions of today, to the calm and deliberate judgment uttered six months ago.
* * * * * * * *
A GOOD SUGGESTION.
It has been suggested by a number of people that the Bank of Lafayette building would make an excellent City Hall, and that, if the Bank, which will erect a new building soon, would sell at a reasonable figure, the City should acquire it. We think the suggestion a good one; the building is sufficiently large for the present and for years to come, is handsome enough to be a credit to the town, and will answer the purpose admirably. The ground floor is suited for offices and the large vault would protect the City records in case of fire. The second floor would serve well for a court room and for meetings of the Council.
It would be decidedly to the advantage of the Bank to sell it, and we have been informed that the board of directors are willing to be very reasonable. The matter should be taken up by the Council at its next meeting and arranged if possible. - Lafayette Advertiser Sept. 14, 1905.
* * * * * * * *
The fact that The Democrat of Feb. 16 gave the article a double column head (which we have reduced to one column for lack of space,) with bold type, when the editorials contain so little praise, is indicative of one of two things, either the present administration is greatly in need of praise, or else they highly value even a small amount of commendation from The Advertiser.
However, we shall not flatter ourselves, because of the unintentional compliment to this paper; the purpose of the unjust comment preceding the reproduction of the editorials is too plain that it is the design of the article to show inconsistently and blind partisanship on our part. But we have no fear that any intelligent, fair minded man who has read our criticisms of the present administration, will for one moment believe so.
In regard to our endorsement of the suggestion that it would be a good thing to buy the old Bank of Lafayette building for a city hall, we are still of the same opinion, but we want to call special attention to two things in the editorial quoted: First, "If the bank would sell at a reasonable figure," and second that the editorial appeared in The Advertiser of Sept. 14, 1905.
In our opinion, the price paid for the Bank of Lafayette, was not a "reasonable price"; in fact, we believe that $3,000 would have been a good price for the property, and we base our estimate upon the fact that last September the Clegg property adjoining and on the corner was exchanged for 22 arpents of land and improvements one mile from Scott, which can now be bought for less than $3,000. Also that the neighborhood is no longer desirable as a business location, witness the removal of the Bank to the business street of town. Further, that the building is not suitable for a residence. And last, we are satisfied that had the Bank not sold the building to the town, they would, it is practically certain, have either not have been able to sell it at over $3,000 or else it would have remained empty as the Clegg building did, for an indefinite period, unless they chose to give it to somebody at a nominal rent. Holding this opinion, we believe the town should not have paid over $3,000 (if they had any authority to buy it which we will show further on they had not at the time the purchase was made), notwithstanding the fact that a similar building would have cost over $4,500; for we do not believe the town should pay more than a thing is worth. Besides, while the building answers very satisfactorily for a city hall, yet had the Council refused to pay over $3,000, and had the bank refused to sell, still it would in the end have proven to the advantage of the town, even if it cost more. For the Council could then have arranged to build an up-to-date city hall which fire station, police headquarters, etc., by paying a certain amount yearly which the increased revenues of the town would easily permit. There are a number of contracting firms that would gladly build us a city hall on yearly payments.
But it is the fact that the editorial appeared in September 1905 that we wish to emphasize. At that time there was nothing in the way of the city acquiring the building provided the Bank was willing to sell at a reasonable figure. But after April 2, 1906, there was something in the way, for on that date the Council adopted an ordinance ordering an election for May 15, 1906 to take the sense of the property taxpayers as to whether the town of Lafayette "should incur debts and issue negotiable bonds therefor and levy and assess special taxes or the property of said town in payment of said bonds and interest thereon," should incur debts and issue negotiable bonds therefor and levy and assess special taxes or the property of said town in payment of said bonds and interest thereon," in which ordinance the following relating to a city hall is included:
Second - To incur a debt of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) for the purpose of constructing in said town, on land acquired by it for such a purpose, a city hall for the use of said town, and to issue the negotiable coupon bonds of said town in the sum of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) at 5 per cent interest payable semi-annually; said bonds to run for and be payable within 25 years.
In the notices of election published in The Gazette subsequently the purpose of the election was summarized as follows:
$60,000 for the construction of graded school buildings.
$5,000 for the construction of a city hall.
$35,000 for extensions and improvements of the waterworks system and electric light plant of said town.
The ballot cast at the special election held on May 15, 1906, had printed on it the following regarding a city hall:
FOR the proposition submitted to the vote of the property taxpayers of the town of Lafayette for the issue of $5,000 of bonds for building a city hall by ordinance adopted on the second day of April, 1906.
We call attention to the fact that the ordinance specifically and unequivocally states that the $5,000 debt was to be incurred for the purpose of constructing in said town, on land acquired by it for such purpose a city hall for the use of said town and we again call attention to the summary in the election notice, "$5,000 for the construction of a city hall" and again to the form of ballot cast," for building a city hall."
Under this ordinance, notice of election and form of ballot, we submit that the Council had absolutely no authority whatsoever to buy either the Bank of Lafayette building or any other building. The words "constructing on land acquired by it for such purpose," the words "construction of a city hall," and the words, "for building a city hall," can under no circumstances be twisted into meaning to buy a building already erected. And the Council cannot justify themselves by pleading that they could not have built as good or suitable a city hall for $4,500. The people voted to incur a debt of $5,000 for the purpose of constructing a city hall on land acquired by the town, and there was no discretion left to the Council - it was their plain duty to carry out the mandate of the people expressed at the ballot box, and their failure to do so merits extreme condemnation.
DECISION WILL BE COMMENDED.
The decision of the Council at their adjourned meeting Monday night to move slowly in the matter of plans, etc., for the new school buildings will be generally commended, as everyone recognizes that such an important public improvement should not be rushed through.
And there is really no pressing necessity that the matter should be hurried, the building can not possibly be completed in time for next session; but there is the utmost necessity that no mistake in design or construction should be made.
The building of this school marks an epoch in the history of Lafayette, being the first public building of any magnitude to be erected, and the wisdom of having it built to meet the needs of the particular community, combining of course, a plain and simple beauty and also harmony with its location that will continue elegant and pleasing, can be recognized at once. The decision of the Council also to include an assembly hall, seating not less than five hundred, will meet with entire approval, for certainly an auditorium of that capacity, one of eight hundred would greatly be preferable if funds will permit, is a most necessary adjunct to the school and will at the same time furnish the citizens of the town with a hall in which to assemble when occasion needs and in a live town, occasions often arise. - Lafayette Advertiser July 11, 1906.
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Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1907.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of February 20th, 1914:
LAF. MOTOR CAR CO. SELLS THREE OVERLANDS.
The Lafayette Motor Car Company, agents for the celebrated Overland automobiles, have just received three of of these splendid car, one a roadster, sold to Dr. L. O. Clark, and the other two fine passenger touring cars, sold to J. A. Roy and O. C. Mouton, respectively. The cars are all electric lighted and equipped with electric self-starter and all other modern conveniences that are found on cars which cost twice the money.
The Overland is one of the very best cars for the money made, and in fact the service it gives places it in a class with much higher priced cars. For all practical purposes as well as comfort, the Overland has proved that it is right there with the goods. Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1914.
LAGNIAPPE:
How a "Wicked Fraud" was put upon Mark Twain in Newark.
[From the Newark, {N. J.} Press.]
It is seldom pleasant to tell on one's self but sometimes it is a sort of relief to a man to make a sad confession. I wish to unburden my mind now, and yet I almost believe that I am moved to do it more because I long to bring censure upon another man than because I desire to pour blame upon my wounded heart. (I don't know what balm is, but I believe it is the correct expression to use in this connection - never having seen any balm.) You may remember that I lectured in Newark lately for the young gentlemen of the Claytonian Society ? I did, at any vote. During the afternoon of that day I was talking with one of the young gentlemen just referred to, and he said he had an uncle who, from some cause or other, seemed to have grown permanently bereft of all emotion. And with the tears in his eyes this young man said :
"Oh, if I could but do it! If you could but do it, all our families would bless you forevermore - for he is very dear to us. Oh, my benefactor, can you make him laugh ? can you bring soothing tears to those parched orbs."
I was profoundly moved. I said :
"My son, bring the old party around. I have got some jokes in that lecture that will make him laugh if there is any laugh in him - and if they miss fire I have got some others that'll make him cry or kill him, one or the other."
Then the young man blessed me, and wept on my neck, and blew his nose on my coat tail, and went after his uncle. He placed him in full view, in the second row of benches that night, and I began on him. I tried him with mild jokes; then with severe ones; I dosed him with bad jokes and riddled him with good ones ; I fired old stale old jokes into him, and peppered him fore and aft with red-hot new ones ; I warmed up to my work, and assaulted him on the right and left, in front and behind. I fumed and sweated, and charged and ranted, till I was horse and sick, and frantic and furious - but I never moved him once - I never started a smile or a tear ! Never a ghost of a smile, and never a suspicion of moisture ! I was astonished. I closed the lecture at last with one despairing shriek - with one wild burst of humor - and hurled a joke of supernatural atrocity full at him. It never phased him. Then I sat down bewildered and exhausted.
The President and of the society came up and bathed my head with cold water and said :
"What made you carry on so toward the last?"
I said : "I was trying to make that confounded old fool laugh, in the second row."
And he said : "Well, you were wasting your time - because he is deaf and dumb, and as blind as a badger."
Now was that any way for that old man's nephew to impose on a stranger and an orphan like me ? I simply ask you as a man and a brother, if that was any way for him to do?"
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1869.
Pictured above: "The Sabine." This was the first locomotive to roll into Lafayette. For a time it was on static display at the Lafayette Train Depot but was later melted down for scrap to help in the war efforts.
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