A. Lisenby has received a letter from Charles Brown, formerly of Fresno, in regard to his experiences in Alaska. Brown did not go far inland until he became discouraged and returned to Seattle. He has anything but a
roseate[?} view of the conditions prevailing in Alaska. The following extracts are taken from his letter:

'I shipped on a steamer for Skaguay and one trip to that part of God’s snow-covered regions was sufficient for me. On all sides suffering, hardship, desolation and heart sickness presents themselves to the eye. The Skaguay catastrophe will be remembered by a great many families. I wish I could paint the scene as I saw it. My advice would be to all who are free from debt and making a living to remain where they are.

'The mad rush into that country seems to brutalize all who enter the race for gold. The weak succumb and the strong are forced over them and the piteous cries for mercy are never heard. Beyond the boundary lines of the country must be hades, as look where you will our eyes only rest upon evidences that God was angry when he created that part of Alaska.

'Men and women are working in Skaguay for their board and glad to get the chance. They have 15-cent meals[?] in Skaguay. Every boat takes back more than are going out at present. One steamer left last week with only six
passengers and the rates for passage are being cut down every day. The town is full of transients and nine-tenths of them are broke.

'Fresno is well represented here, among others being McDonald, an old-time real estate agent; the Costas boys, formerly with Sperry Milling Company,and Mr. Mott, the livery man.'”