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                                    8.

where we left ours, and in the streets were the families of the richest men in Chicago running, some lost, and many sitting right on the pavement for a moment's breaths, dressed in velvets silk the word 'silk' inserted by a caret and jewels they were trying to save. The fire was a wonderful leveler, if I may use that expression. Life was the only question then. We are not entirely safe yet, and will not be until we have more rain, for of course there is no water to use. Mr. Broomell was mustered in as patrol Tuesday evening and all the citizens are working day and night to save what remains of the city. Troops are here from Omaha and have Gen. Sheridan for leader and are guarding faithfully the ruins and dangerous parts of the city. Placards are posted all round the ruins announcing that any person attempting to steal will be killed instantly and without mercy. That is the only thing that will protect property now, for there are so many convicts out, as of course the Armory is burned and all other places of confining desperados on the South Side.

All day Monday the Mayor sent orders all over the city that no fires were to be built in the houses under any considerations, and no smoking of cigars