Sketch Book of Saint Louis

Whilst the greatest effort has been made to ensure the quality of this text, due to the historical nature of this content, in some rare cases there may be minor issues with legibility. Very many of our merchants have done both, and by their integrity and probity have given a high and exalted tone to the mercantile character of the city. We could point to many, who, having devoted years to business in this city, have maintained, throughout the whole period, such a reputation as any honorable man would be pleased to leave as an inheritance to his posterity. Now, our wholesale dealers, in the various branches, have conducted their business so prudently, as to have extended sales into all portions of the West, from Minnesota to Texas - from the great Lakes to New Mexico and Utah - and to bring about this result, there has been a cordial co-operation between our merchants and manufacturers. St. Louis may not only feel proud of her position, as a place of business concentration, but she may and does feel proud of the men, in all branches, who are engaged in the business of the place. But the commercial greatness and importance of St. Louis is not only evidenced by the number, the probity, and the extensive Operations of her merchants, but also in her vast commerce, the number, size and beauty of her steamboats. The vast increase in the number and costliness of these floating palaces in the past few years, Show how rapid and healthy must be the growth and business of St. Louis as a commercial emporium.