Evening Star Newspaper, May 9, 1895, Page 9

THE EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, MAY 9, 1895-TWELVE PAGES. 9 LPO SOLS S42 OH 4069-98 0O-$0-69- 00-00 00-G0-4 { Household Hints i flagging zeal. knowledge of us. the way here. --At-- Our ascendancy stock as the embodiment of all that is most de= sirable. They have learned that under our mar= shalship costliness isn’t a necessary accompani- ment of quality. They have imbibed the true spirit of this store—the “best for the least.” Upholstery Department. It ts getting dangerously near the time when your furniture should be armored against the destroying influences that attend the summer season. It won't cost you a penny to be advised—counseled—to have an estimate of the expense. We can offer you some valuable and money-saving sugges- tions. Among the best materials to be used are: Empire Swansdown. Pink and White Striped Linen. Jacquard Woven Linen tn flower pat- terns. French Cretonnes. French Chintz. And the old reliable Striped Linens, ‘You are going to be surprised at the prices we will quote for materials, work and sll. ) iture Coverings. ? paises 4Window Shades. Ready made—or made to order. In either case We can meet your wishes to your great- est satisfaction. We have got the assort- ment and the ability—that is all that suc- cess needs to succeed. 29c. for a Hand-made Opaque Shade 0c. for the Best Opaque Shade—40x73 —all ready. ; Figures on to-order work for nothing. Send Summer Drapery Stuffs. Gauzy and good. Some very happy ef- fects—new, too. 26-inch Sitkalines—12tgc. a yard. 36-inch Swisses—pointelle dots—12%c. us word and we will call—with sur‘samples. 86-inch Fish Nets—25c. a yard. “! 72-inch Fish Nets—S0c. a yard. 81-inch China Silks—50c. a sand. 31nch French Chintz and Cretoanes~ Ie. a yard. Lace Curtains. You won't be able to buy as cheap as you can now for some time. Prices have Jumped right up In Nottingham, St. Gall and New York. But we saw the danger and filled in our varlety before the new scale became op- erative. As long as they last you shall buy just as though nothing had happened. ‘These are the very latest edition of pat- terns: Boudoir Nottinghams—65c., and $1 2 pair. Parlor Nottinghams—ereme of tesizns— $1.50, $1.75, $2, $2.25, $2.50, $3 up to $6.50 a patr. White and Creme Irish Point Curtains $4 to $25 0 pair. White Swiss Tamboured Curtains—$3 to $18 a pal Point Brussels—$6 to $50 a patr. Russian and Honiton Curtains—$18 to $50 a pair. Antique Lace Curtains—Creme effects— $2.25 to $6. Creme and Partl-colored Maras Cun tains—$2.50 to $6 a pair. Ruffled Muslin Curtains—$1.35 to $1.50 @ pair. Silk Striped Curtains—$2.25 to $6 # pair. Cotton Striped Curtains—$1.50 a pair. Raw Silk Portieres—$9 to $15 a pair. You can see what your possibilities are here just now. ‘Temporary advantages at Dest. Se. ‘Te., ? P ? 36x72—ready to put up. 3 a yard. i o e PERRY’S, “Ninth and the Avenue.’ O-PS PERRY’S. } We haven’t climbed up into the lap of success by the help of sensationalism. has been steady—consistent—natural. Our suc- cess but the just deserts of a half century’s un- The people have grown into a Experience has taught them They have come to look upon our ) i i i i y A Cure for DST eP SIM! RIPANS TABULES. Read What Dr. Dam of Boston Says of Ripans. “I am indeed very much pleased with my ex- perience with Ripans Tabules. I have a customer in Portland, Maine, to whom I gave a small vial totry. This customer had two physicians steadily for a long time treating his wife for dyspepsia, and the tabules were the only thing that did any good.”* Tiass. Dr. Dam, Columbus avenue, Boston, PROSPERITY I$ RETURNING. Such is the Opinion of the Majority of Washing- ton’s Business Men. MUCH CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE. Business men in Washington are nearly unanimous in the belief that a brighter prospect for trade is opening before the community. Nearly all report, business as already in a much improved condition, Some few merchants still take a pessimistic view of the situation, but the vast majority consider that the crisis of the business de- pression has passed and that from now on a steady end continuing advance will be noted toward business prosperity. Star reporters yesterday and today so- licited an expression of opinion from many business men representing different finan- cial, commercial and manufacturing inter- ests. A few declined to have their names used or their opinions quoted, as they could not yet testify that they had felt in their business the thrill of returning pros- perity. But the great majority spoke freely and express:d their confidence in a steady improvement of business and financial con- ditions. Below will be found the results of inquiries made by Star reporters among business men: Noticeable Improvement. W. B. Moses & Sons, furniture: “We find an improvement in business and expect that it will continue. It is a trifle early in the season, but the indicatiors thus far are encouraging.” On the Increase. Woodward & Lothrop, Boston store, said that everything indicates that business is on the upward road, and the prospect 1s that it will continue. Better Times Here. Mf. Lisaer of the Palais Royal sald that business conditions are improving, and the prospects are much brighter. He thought that the indications were that the better times would continue. Continued Expansion. Robinson, Chery & Co., clothiers, sald that business is improving and that this has been the condition since the first of the year. They thought that there would be no setback and that business would continue to expand. Prospects Are Bright. Barber & Ross, building supplies: “The business is very much better than it was last year, and has been all the spring. We expect a good summer trade. We are fis- uring on a good many plans and the gener- al prospects are good.” Encouraging Outlook. Seaton Perry, Pennsylvania avenue and 9th street—‘Business is more active with me than it was last year, and the outlook for the autumn is very encouraging.” Moving Toward Prosperity. Mr. W. S. Thompson, druggist, 15th street near G street: “I don’t know that I can say anything about the general business situation. So far as our own business is concerned, however, I can say it is fairly good and that we have no reason to com- plain of the times. Better times are com- ing, but when, of course, no one can pre- dict. Prosperity does not come at once, but is always a slow and gradual movement. We haven't yet reached the high tide of prosperity, but are gradually moving in that desirable direction.” In the Right Direction. Mr. C. G. Sloan, auctioneer, 1407 G street: “I think business is improving. It went down slowly and will come up in the same way. An uphill movement is always slow. Business is better now than it was at the same time last year, and although the present movement is slow, it is in the right direction.” Washington's Good Record. Mr. Charles J. Bell, president of the American Loan and Trust Co.: “All the in- ications for the future seem to me to be favorable. Washington has stood the se vere business strain of the last two years as well, if not better, than any other city in the Union. Prices in realty have suf- fered less depreciation here than in any other city that I know of. To my mind the situation is much better than it has been and it appears to be improving every day. Looking back over the past two years it seems hardly possible that we should have passed through the business strain so well and practically without a single important business failure.” Encouraging in Every Way. Mr. C. C. Bryan, grocer, 1413 New York avenve: “The situation is improving all along. We have had a good season of trade and are very well satisfied with the present state of business. It is certainly much bet- ter than it was last year. I think things will also be in good shape in the fall, and the 6utlook is encouraging in every way.” A Promising Outlook. 3. W. Whelpley, president of the Eastern Building Association: “Business 1s improving in a moderate way. There is no great expansion in any particular branch of business, but there is a general feeling of confidence among the people. A great deal of money is coming to Washington for investment, but I don’t know that I ought to say that. There is quite a no- ticeable increase in building operations for private dwellings, many of which are of an expensive character. There is also quite an increase in the prices asked for materials of all kinds entering into the construction of buildings, and brick, lum- ber and hardware are selling at better prices than heretofore. Yes, on the whole, I regard the business outlook for Wash- ington as encouraging.” Will Continue to Grow Better. Mr. John H. Magruder, grocer, 1417 New York avenue: “Well, we don’t have so many excuses from people against paying their bills now as we did a year ago. Busi- ness Is certainly improving in that respect. Times have been very hard, for the past two years,.but they are much better now. I was in Pittsburg last week and noticed that things were booming. We are also feeling the same thing here-in Washington, and I believe that business will continue to get better.” Hopeful Prospects. Frank N. Carver, builder: ‘Business is a good deal better than it was at this time last year. I believe that the improvement will continue and that the prospects for the future are decidedly hopeful.” Business Picking Up. Mr. James F. Oyster: ‘The prospects for a return of prosperity are good. Of course, the country has suffered materially during the past two years, but there Is a silver lin- ing to the clouds, and it is very much In evidence just now. Merchants now realize that the tariff has been settled for a loag time to come, and this alone nsures cor fidence. Yes, I think business generally is picking up, and the signs for better times in the near future are bright indeed.” The Dawn of Better Times. “Daylight is beginning to break,” said Mr. John E. Herrell, president of the Na- tional Capital Bank. “I believe the country will shortly enter upon a season of great prosperity. All signs favor that, and the confidence of the merchants is another evidence“of the good times that are to come. More inquiry is being made for loans, and investments are picking up every day. Confidence is returning among the masses. Deposits are higher than they ever were, and this fact alone shows that there is plenty of money on hand.” Many Evidences of Returning Pros- perity. Mr. M. I. Weller said: “You may say for me that the signs of the times are pro- pitious. The country has had a :retty rough experience, but I feel assured that its recovery will be speedy. Invescments are being made on every hand, and there are many other evidences of returning e Returning. Mr. Thomas W. Smith said: “The busi- ‘Ress prosperity of this country lies in the brawn and muscle of its sons. The busi- ness chastisement we have had during the past eighteen months has taught a great lesson, and the country will be slow in returning to its former prosperity. When the reaction does come, however, it will be phenomenal. Hereafter all great enter- prises in the business world will be based upon sound business principles. Confidence is returning, however, and I anticipate a gradual return to prosperity.” Looking for Better Times. “On every hand I can see evidences of re- turning confidence in business,” said Mr. F. P. Madigan, “and I venture to predict that by this time next year the confidence of the merchants will be extended through- out this great country, and every branch of trade will be stimulated.” Improving as We Go Forward. Mr. Jesse B. Wilson, president of the Lincoln National Bank: “It seems to be in the air that better times, if not here al- ready, are on the way. People have no doubt adjusted themselves to the conditions following the period of financial depression, and, as a natural consequence, there is an improvement in business as we go for- ward.” Good Times Ahead. Mr. B. H. Warner: “I think the situation is better largely in the general feeling of confidence. In a few months we shall, I believe, once more be in the midst of good A Hundred Per Cent Better. N. T. Haller, architect: “I can say with- out hesitation that from my standpoint business is improving. It is 100 per cent better than last year. We are building larger and better buildings this year than ever. And of outside trade in Maryland and Virginia I can say that it has greatly increased. It is fully 50 per cent better than last year.” Busineas is Better. Henry King, jr., dry goods merchant: “Certainly, business is better. With me it has been very good this year. The only class that seems to be without money is the mechanic. That will have a remedy before long, as the situation continues to improve and capital continues. with increas- ing confidence to seek investment.” Signs of Improvement. D. P. Leibhardt, secretary Serial Sav- ings and Building Association: “The best sign of improvement in business is the fact that men who have money are actively seeking investments. A year ago they shut themselves up in their rooms and the borrower couldn't get,at them. Now these men are out pe places to loan and invest. Money Is plenty at even iq per cent on good security, and in time, as business feels and responds to this condi- tion of confidence én«money centers, we shall once more see good time: Confidenée Restored. Mr. E. Southard, Parker, president Co- lumbia National Bank: “Recovery from a condition in monetary affairs that was without a precedent in the history of this country must of necessity be slow. But it seems to be steadily improving, and confi- dence, that was so badly shattered, is being slowly but surely restored. And the gereral improvement is marked.” Looking for Good Times. Cc. B. Keferstein, architect: “Business is no worse than a year ago, and from the prospects indicated by plans being pre- pared for buildings ¥ should say we are to have soon a restoration of good times.” Better by 33 Per Cent. Mr. Harry Parker of the clothing firm of Parker, Bridget & Co. said: ‘We cast up ac- counts for April a day or two ago, and found that our trade for that month was just thirty-three per cent better than April of last year. That answers your question, I think. I look for that percentage of in- creese to continue, too, and I have no fears for the future now. We are on the right side of the tide, at last. I am not afraid to buy goods, for fear of not selling them.” Better Than for Three Years. Mr. T. L. Holbrook of the Washington Brick Machine Co.: ‘The general condi- tions of business in Washington, so far as I am able to judge, have materially im- proved. Our business is better than it has been at any time during the past three years.” A Rapid Improvement. Mr. E. S. Johnson, president of the Citi- zens’ National Bank: “General condition shows an improvement over last year, and business is undoubtedly moving on a more solid basis, which is more healthy than if there was a rapid improvement. The in- creased demand for loans is an index to the fact that the public are slowly regaining confidence in the situation.” Mr. F. C. Stephens of the West End Na- tioral Bank indorsed the statement made by Mr. Johnson, but would say nothing on his own responsibility. Gradual but Sure Advance. Mr. Jno. Joy Edson, president of the Washington Loan and Trust Company: “Business is gradually and surely improv- ing. In my judgment this improvement will steadily continue. It is not a boom, but a substantial increase. The situation warrants this statement. Silver and polit- ical agitation may possibly modify, but not prevent, the imprevement and increase of business now going on.” Good Fall Prospect. Mr. G. Warfield Simpson: “People are buying more freely now than heretofore. Indications point to better conditions later, and we think there will be a very good business in the fall.” Mectiag Obligations Promptly. Mr. Matthew G. Emery, president of the Second National Bank, said that in his opinion things are lightening considerably in the business world, and that he looks for a still greater improvement in the future. “For one thing,” said Mr. Emery, “I have noticed that people generally are meeting their engagements and settling their obligations more promptly and much more casily than they were a year or so ago. That is a pretty good sign of an im- proved condition of affairs. I do not know that there has been stich a great increase in bank deposits, but;'they are certainly holding up very well,’and I gather from conversations with business men who come in to the bank that there is a more com- fortable feeling in aJ€ circles, and that even better times are looked for in the near future. This is not @ te0 optimistic vtew, I am sure, for all signs are pointing to- ward greater prosperity, and in my opin- ion the future is offefimg promise of good things.”” Enterprise a¥n Promoter. E. P. Mertz, druggist: “Business is very good, and I believe that this favorable con- dition will continue through the summer. I believe that a great deal can be done by individual enterprise in promoting busi- ness.” . Buy in Washington. “There is every reason why we should expect better times ahead.” This was Mr. Charles Baum’s answer when asked what he thought of the business outlook. “Wa: ington was the last city to feel the effects of the recent hard times, and it is hard to see why it should be the last to recover from them. From all over the country come reports of a better feeling in busi- ness circles; factories are starting up again that have been shut down for a long time, and in all lines of industry come stories of renewed activity. Washington cannot but feel the good results of all this, and while prosperity may not come with winged feet, it is certainly on its way and will get here in good time. I look for a good fall trade in all sorts of business. There is one thing, though, that would assure it , more than anything else; let Washington people do their buying in Washington. Families in high official and social life have got in the way of going over to Bal- timore, Philadelphia or New York to co their heavy shopping, and we here have to depend mainly on peopie of small in- comes for our trade. This is not as it should be, and if our people all tock a greater interest in home industries there ‘would be far less talk of hard times in Washington.” No Difference. Mr. Eiseman of the firm of Eiseman Brothers, clothiers, said that he saw no difference in trade between now and last year and could not say that there has been any increase. 2 Signs of Encouragement. Mr. George Spransy, clothier: “Come around in a day or two and I can tell ycu something encouraging. I see signs of a very brisk increase in trade now, and I think that in a few days we will be on the highway.” Undoubtedly Getting Better. Mr. F. R. Sale, with L. H. Wieman,Wash- ington office Pillsbury-Washburn Flour Millis Company: “As our business is con- ducted on a strictly cash basis we are not able to judge very correctly as to the gener- al condition of business. The times, how- ever, are gradually getting better; there is no question about the improvement. We are doing a good business and feel greatly encouraged. I see no reason why the la- boring mcn in Washington should be out of employment.”” One of the Best Indications. Barnes & Weaver, real estate brokers, said: ‘Business is much better than it was last year, and it is steadily improving. Our list of empty houses for rent is smaller than at any time since the beginning of the late depression. The fact that houses are in demand is, in our opinion, one of the best indications of returning prosperity. Altogether we are in a very cheerful frame of mind.” Generally Improving. W. H. McKnew: “Our business depends on seasons and would not feel the condi- tions that affect general trade. But for ourselves we can say our trade is excel- lent. We would not know there was such a period on us as people call hard times. It seems, too, that trade generally is im- proving.” Seem to Be Improving. The Virginia Brick Company: “In our business it sometimes happens that a sin- gle contract will run us through the sea- son. On that account we cannot speak of the condition of trade very definitely. The times seem to be improving decidedly.” A Return of Confidence. Mr. B. B. Earnshaw of the firm of B. B. Earnshaw. & Ero., flour and feed men: While I look for a steady improvement in business and already have practical evi- dence of such, I am not inclined to expect a boom. That is not what the country wants. A return of confidence is at hand, and gradually business will improve. This is really the most healthy condition that could be expected. My business shows steady improvement, and all the indica- tions are for better times. It is practically settled that there will be no general re- vision of the tariff for many years to come, but the feeling of security will not be at- tained until after we see what the next Congress is going to do in the matter of revision. There certainly will be some changes, for the deficit must be looked after, especially since the income tax has practically failed. The severe lesson the business men have had during the past two years has borne its fruits, and here- after they will be more conservative, and consequently more businesslike.” Away Ahend of Last Yenr. Mr. Mark Blum of Blum Bros., the dry goods dealers of Southeast Washington, sai ‘Business is picking up a great deal, and we are away ahead of last year’s re- ceipts for this season. There seems to be a healthier condition everywhere. We are so fully impressed with the belief that the times will steadily get better that we have laid in a larger stock than we ever carried before. Yes, the country is truly awaken- ing to better times.” Signs of the Times Propitious. Mr. F. W. Bolgiano, the seedsman, sald: “In my business I think the pulse of the people can be felt keener than in any other. People who buy seeds, either for the pur- pose of raising produce for the markets or to beautify their homes, are generally close buyers. Last year the business was flat, but this spring has been a phenomenal one, and the business steadily grows. Yes, the signs of the times are propitious.” A Reason for Investing Here. + Mr. John B. Wight, secretary of the board of trade, said: “I have noticed a marked improvement in business, especially within the past week or ten days. It’s my belief that business throughout the country Is improving and that the improvement will reach Washington in course of time, but it will naturally be slow in coming. Values have held their own remarkably well in Washington during the recent depression. I think, in w of this fact, that capital will probably seek investment here. I have noticed that the first cities to feel returning prosperity are the manufacturing cities, which, in my opinion, is an additional ar- gument why our manufacturirg interests here should be increased, provided, of course and always, that manufacturing establishments be so situated and so oper- ated as not to interfere with the desirabi ity of Washington as a place of residence. Things Appear to Brighten Daily. Reeves, Poole & Co.: “We cannot consist- ently complain, as we find business very good considering the season of the year. Things appear to brighten daily, and we firmly believe that by fall there will be very little complaining about ‘hard times.’ ” Looks for a Boom. Mr. A. Mayer, one of the proprietors of the Bon Marche, said that the present burst of good weather is having a very beneficial effect upon trade, and he expects the stores will be filled with customers from now on. “The season has been a good one, and I iook for a boom next fall, and shall be very much surprised if Washington does not have one of its very best trade seasons the coming winter. You see, this city feels the effect of a panic last of all, and is there- fore apt to feel the recovery last. Many government clerks send a part of their money away to the home folks, which drains the local money market to some ex- tent. This will stop as the other cities feel the revival. We have shown our faith in the near approach of better times by mak- ing extensive improvements. I think there is every reason to feel encouraged at the brighter outlook.” Better Than a Year Ago. Moore & Leding: ‘Trade is better than it was a year ago, and there seems to be a feeling that business will make considerable improvement by the fall."” The Outlook Bright. G. L. Mertz of Mertz & Mertz, taiiors: “Business with us is very good at present, end is fully one-third better than it was last year. It keeps us hustling. To my mind, square dealing and other proper methods of doing business have had a great ceal to do with the improved situation. Yes; business has certainly improved, and the outlook is very bright.” A General Business Improvement. C. H. Davison, jeweler: “You can tell the reople tnat we are doing business on the principle of 1895, and find it most satis- fectory. Our business is new. We started in a dull season, and our business has grown wonderfully in a short time. This fact, I think, shows a tendency toward a general business improvement. Mr. Lansburgh's Increase. “What do I think of the business out- look?” said Mr. G. Lansburgh of the firm of Lansburgh & Bro. ‘Well, the best way I can answer that fs to tell you that I have just come back from New York, where I attended the biggest auction sale of dry goods this spring. I was about the heavi- est buyer there, and bought 254 out of a little more than 500 lots. That shows what I think of the business outlook in Wash- ington. I think the summer trade is going way beyond last year. But wait a minute and I will send to the office for a report of business done here in the last few days.” A few minutes later came the report, which showed that during the five business days ending last night the business of this house had exceeded by $2,616 the business done in the first five days of May, 1894. “There,” said Mr, Lansburgh, “I think that is a pretty fair estimate of the condition of affairs in Washington this year.” Banking Outlook. “The condition of the banks is a pretty good indication of the condition of a com- munity,” said Mr. A. B. Ruff, cashier of the Central National Bank, “and I can answer your question by stating that the business ef this bank is far heavier than it Was a year ago. The number of deposits and the amount have increased by at least 10 per cent over the corresponding period of last year. There is a good deal of idle money, but, just the same, there is every prospect of a splendid future in the busi- mess world.” Prosperity Coming. Dr. Daniel B. Clarke, president of the National Bank of the Republic—“I think the prospects for the year are of the most promising sort. Prosperity may be a little siow in coming, but it is getting here by steady and healthy stages, and it will not be so very long now before we get back to our former prosperity.” The Tendency. R. W. Henderson, wall papers, sald that the tendency Is decidedly toward improve- ment in the volume of business, and he saw no reason why this condition should not continue until there ts activity in all lines. Has Been Advertising. Mr. S. G. Cornwell of the firm of G. G. Cornwell & Son, grocers, said: “We are very well satisfied with the state of busi- ness. We had a better trade last winter than the previous year, and people seemed to be buying more. We also obtained many new customers. The fact is," added Mr. Cornwell, with a smile, ‘“‘we have been ad- vertising.” Business Ahead. Messrs. Craig & Harding said: “While the rainy weather of the past week has retarded business, we hope and look for good trade when the weather becomes sea- sonable. There ought to be considerable business ahead, and ft only wants an op- portunity to open.” Outlook Hopefal. Mr. Wm. Bruce Gray, the architect, said: “There is not a great deal of building go- ing on at present, but the outlook seems to be mor2 kopeful, as there are more in- quiries for plans.” Increased Circulation. ‘Wm. Oscar Roome, the cashier of the Ohio National Bank, said: “Business is Picking up, there is more money in circula- tion and people are meeting their obliga- tions promptly. The increase in business is a healthy one and has every indication of being permanent.” Mr. Stinemetz Cheerful. Mr. B. H. Stinemetz said that his busi- ness of covering the heads of his custom- “ers had improved considerably since last year, and is now In a most satisfactory state. “Trade is far better,” he said, “than it was a year ago, our April business hav- ing shown a satisfactory increase over the samc month of 1894. I think that business is in good condition generally, notwith- standing the absence of Congress. I be- Keve, too, that the people are being educat- ed to patient waiting and careful watching. There is no reason now for people to think honestly that the old days were better than the present. I think that folks are getting to be more hopeful and cheerful.” Wages Tell the Story. Mr. George Joyce of the firm of Androw J. Joyce’s Sons, carriage builders, said: “Our trade is considerably better than last year. We are making more sales and have all the repair work we can possibly do. We are employing more men, too, than we did a year ago, and have also restored the oid «tes of. wages, which we were obliged to cui down during the stress of business conditions in 1804. Money is easier now and the outlook is bright.” Judged by Auctions. Mr. Charles W. Darr of Radcliffe, Darr & Co., auctioneers: “Our business is an excellent barometer of the conditions of business weather, I believe, and we are very much encouraged over the recent read- ings. Our real estate auction sales have been better attended this spring than at any time since the recent panic began. The bidding has been more spirited, de- cidedly better prices have been secured, and the feeling of those present upon such oc- casions has been one of confidence in the conditions of the future. Purchasers are composed of those who buy to hold, while a considerable amount of real estate has been bought for speculation. Our other auction sales are also better attended than heretofore in the recent past by all classes of people, and we don’t find the same ten- dency among them to hold on to money as we did three or four months ago. I think a better feeling prevails everywhere, and I believe that the change for the better fs a permanent one, and that the conditions will continue to improve until business reaches its normal state again,” The Crisis Passed. Mr. George C. Henning, president of the Traders’ National Bank: .“‘Business condi- tions are slowly improving. There is noth- ing phenomenal to be expected. After a crisis the return to the normal is always gradual. It was so after 1837, after 18 and again after 1873. 1t will be so at the present time. The critica! period has been passed, and I believe there will be steady and appreciable improvement along the lines of recovery always followed after times of business prostration.”” Better Every Month. Mr. E. H. Snyder of Snyder & Wood, mer- chant tailors: “Our business last month was greater than that for April, 1994, and I am inclined to the bellef that while there will be no very substantial increase in gen- eral business this spring or summer, that a healthy reaction will be experienced next I think that the signs point that Noticeably Better. Mr. Walter A. Galt of Galt & Bro., jewel- ers: “Our business in the past month was ncticeabiy better than for the correspond- ing month last year, and the fact that the improvement has been apparent in all our departments is a sign of better times. There is no doubt that business conditions have improved.” Shows Little Improvement. Mr. W. M. Whyte of the metal cornice manufacturing firm of Whyte & Brother said that trade stands about the same with them as a year ago, and shows little im- provement. Their business is dependent, of course, upon that of the builders, and Mr. Whyte did not expect any material Increase in business until there is a general revival in large building. There is*a good deal of small work being done, he added, but few large structures, such as make work for the firm, are in sight now. A Marked Improvement. John Cook, the secretary of the Perpetual Building Association, says he can observe a marked improvement in the business out- lcok. The people are still saving money, and the inquiry for it is just as good as ever, so far as his experience goes. They have accustomed themselves to doing busi- nes3 on a reduced standard of values, but there now seems to be a prospect of a grad- val improvement, as commodities are get- ting dearer and compelling a larger outlay of cash to transact an equal amount of busin Money is more active, and while the amount in circulation may not be up to its former volume, yet there is quite an amount of work being done for that which is circulated, and, altogether, there is good grounds for encouragement. Duller, if Anything. Mr. Charles A. Langley, builder, sald that he found the market, if anything, a bit duller now than last season. But he at- tributed thfs to the fact that while there 1s a good deal of speculative building and considerable small construction, there are almost no large houses being projected by the prospective occupants; that is, few men are building large houses for their own use. The work that is being done, he says, is not good work, and does little or no benefit to the trade. It is hard, he added, to keep wages at the rates which he prefers to pay his mechanics. Very Bad Season. ©. A. Schneider & Sons, tron founders: “Trade is dead with us. Actions speak louder than words, however. Look through the shops. Nothing is being done. We can’t tell when it will pick up, but we know it is worse with us than a year ago. It is a very bad season so far.” Recovering Confidence. Mr. Heisley cf the firm of builders of Emmart & Heisley: “Business is better than last year, and there is a good pros- ———————) pect for a busy season. I hear encourag- ing reports from all quarters, from other cities ard from this city. It seems that people are getting back their confidence, and are more willing to spend their money. I believe that the building season will be a good one this year; not as good as it ought to be, to be sure, but still, very comfort- Depends on the Weather. James Y. Davis’ Sons, hatters: “It 1s too soon to talk. We had rather say nothing yet. Probably in a week we can tell how the season ts going to be. It is uncertain yet. For instance, our March trade this year was worse than last year, while the April business this year showed an in- crease. It is too early to form any judg- ment. Much in our line depends upon the weather.” Gain in Prosperity. 5. Kann & Sons—“We have just com- pleted the improvements in our store, so that it would be hardly fair to consider the big increase in business that we are enjoying just now altogether to the re- vival of trade. All we have to say is that we are doing a far bigger business even than we had hoped for, and as ours 1s a strictly cash trade it must mean that there is a big gain in the general prosperity of the community. We are anticipating a big summer and fall trade, and think there ts — reason to be sanguine as to the fu- ure.” Saks & Co’s Outlook. “We have every reason to anticipate @ trade far bigger than that of last year,” said Manager Kronheimer of Saks & Co. “It is true that the cool and wet weather has had the effect of delaying our summer trade somewhat, but from all sides we hear such promising reports that we are sure of a far more prosperous season than we have had for several years past, even if it does not surpass anything we have ever known. Mr. Saks is in New York now lsying in a big stock, and that says better than anything else could what he thinks of the business outlook. Business men in oe have every reason to be hope- Loans an Indication. J. A, Maedel, Washington Six Per Cent Permanent Building Association—“Business is undoubtedly picking up in this city. Our books show that our applications for lcans are more than double what they were in the same length of time last year, and there is no way of feeling .the pulse of business better than by watching the build- ing interests. So far as I can see, this ™means a healthy improvement along all lines and gives promise of even better things in the future.” General Outlook Better. Tyler & Rutherford: “The inquiries for Property during the past few weeks seem encouraging and the general outlook much better than heretofore. Prices remuin firm and there has been no serious depreciation of values. As an indication of a favorable condition of affairs is the fact that people have been able to pay their interest. We have real estate loans amounting to about $3,000,000 outstanding, and ha oniy two loans in default of interest. We have in no instance been compelled to foreclose a deed of trust during the recent depression, covering about two yea Has Perfect Faith. Mr. Geo. T. Keea: “Business ts on the increase. There has been considerable im- provement and there is promise of more. I have so much faith in the prospect that I have increased my force of employes by one-third and have put in an electric ap- paratus for heating irons and added cther extensive improvements to the mechanical department.” Increase Over Last Year. Mr. W. H. Veerhoff: “My books show a large increase cf business at this store over last year. There is a demand for the high- est class goods in my line, and the best works of art find sale here. The outlook for business from this time on seems fair. About as a Year Ago. Messrs. Pettit and Dripps, machinists, said that they could not give any encourag- ing reports of the state of trade. They had found no improvement, and things stand about as they did a year ago. - Looking for an Advance. J. B. Wimer, real estate broker, saidt “The actual volume of business now is not all that we could wish for, but ag much as I expected this summer. I have several matters apparently being earnest- ly negotiated which indicate to me clearly that it cannot be long before considerable uninvested money will find its way inte realty, which will naturally tend to in- crease the demand. The owners of our District property have maintained their holdings, necessarily strengthening values which have in but few instances yielded to the two years’ stress, but in :nany in- stances our best character of property has brought better figures in the last year or two than ever before, and with the stupendous purchase now in a fair way to focus I cannot but feel confidence, being influenced, in my opinion, by the ‘mprove- ment indicated all along the line, that what is showing itself in other directions must before the end of this year exhibit to us a reflective advance in prosperfty here far exceeding that of other places attracting less attention than our beautiful city. The Indicator of Good Business. Messrs. Latimer, Morgan & Co. say that busiress is in better condition now than for several years past. Real estate Is healthy and strong, which condition is the foundation and indicator of good business. A Great Improvement Over Last Year, Mr. John W. Thompson of the National Metropolitan Bank: “I think business is improving. Money is more in demand for investment, and the building records show a much larger number of buildings going up now than was the case at this time last year. This naturally gives more em- ployment to labor. Property is also more in demand and at prices in advance of those of last year. I might say more on the subject, but I think the facts I have mentioned are sufficient to indicate a great business improvement over last year.” Improvement in Georgetown. There is a diversity of opinion somewhat in Georgetown as to whether or not the financial situation has improved substan- tially. Mr. E. P. Berry, cashier of the Farmers end Mechanics’ Bank, employs « simile in speaking of the condition of the money market. He says: “The situation is very like the condition of a man who is con- valescing from a dangerous illness. The progress toward health is slow, and the tightest carelessness or thoughtless move- ment is liable to cause a relapse. This panic has been a terrible one, an@ the country will be a long time recovering. There is plenty of money in the country, but the holders are still afraid to put it into circulation. One cause of the stagna- tion is the dumping upon us of our securi- ties held by foreigners.” Mr. George W. King, treasurer of the First Co-operative Building Association, has never looked upon the condition of the local money market as depressing. “Outside financial difficultie: he says, “have caused taik here of hard times, but merchants and institutions have done just as much business, have just as many se- curities and as strong bank accounis as ever.” The past year with his association has been one of the most successful in its history. There have been comparatively few withdrawals, and always a demand for the money to be loaned. If there was the same liberality shown by merchanis in their demands as is being shown by busi- ness people in general, Mr. King thinks that building operations would have gone way ahead in Georgetown instead of hold- ing its own. Mr. Joseph H. Bradley, secretary of the Potomac Insurance Company, says the re- vival of trade in stocks on the exchange is indicative of an improvement in the finan- cial condition general! but locally there has been, in his opinion, no substantial change over last year. There Is plenty of money on hand to be loaned, but the lack of confidence in present values retards its investment. The great majority of merchants say there is a decided improvement in the gen- eral trade. They are selling more goods than they did last year, though their proiits are somewhat less on certain articles. Contractors say that work is coming in upen them steadily. This is a substantial evidence of a revival of busy and profitable times. By usii Hall’s Hair Renewer gray, faded or discolored hair assumes the natural ‘of youth and