BERLIN TO HAMBURG 49 



day's paper that a number of citizens from 'Central Sharp Dis- 

 trict' have signed a petition for the removal of gambling dens. 

 If a murder occurs in such places, we need not be astonished, 

 that the people take little notice of it, as the American does not 

 waste many words, where he feels that it cannot mend matters. 

 Every one knows what he has to face in such places, particularly 

 if the luck should come his way and, if he nevertheless visits 

 them, he will have to take his medicine in case of trouble. If I 

 choose to enter certain establishments along the Hamburg Water- 

 front or in any other large city, I may run the same danger, 

 though I be in the midst of European civilization. 



There is quite a good deal of building going on here and solid 

 brick structures find universal favor. Sidewalks too, are being 

 laid ; carriages for hire are to be had at the market place and a 

 drive about town costs five dollars. Erench shoe-blacks will give 

 your shoes an immaculate "shine" for a suitable compensation. 

 French and English theaters, concert halls, balls, Olympic games 

 and circus companies offer quite a variety of amusements. There 

 is actually talk of a gas plant, which some enterprising men ex- 

 pect to erect before very long. Does not such a progress give us 

 a hopeful outlook for next year? Agriculture too has its tri- 

 umphs. We are enjoying the finest cauliflower, the best of pota- 

 toes, turnips, cabbage and many other vegetables. But flour and 

 butter are still imported as there is not yet enough of the local 

 product, though it will not be long before that too, will be a part 

 of our 'Home Industry.' " 



