Great-Grandfather's insight into the US Northwest

For something a little different.

The below contains a little insight about Seattle and Portland in a letter my Great-Grandfather (Harvey Williams Cooley) sent to his older sister Mattie Cooley almost 100 years ago. Apparently I've discovered it is not entirely true given my current location. :-)

This was a particularly relevant letter that got scanned by my dad as he went through many historical Cooley documents in the recent past.

Coquille, OR.
July 16, 1908
Dear Sis,

Yours of July 10 received and contents noted; was very glad to learn of Rollies' [Roland Cooley] information. He wants to remember the old adage to the effect that all work and no play make Jack a dull boy. Lying around in bed is about the hardest work I ever did. If I were I would certainly want to release myself some.

Give my regards to Aunt C and H.J and family though I suppose the latter will have left by this time.

If you will take occasion to note there are no heat prostrations [heat stroke] recorded in the West. And you can go to the mountains if you want when you get there although I support Geo will want to get action on himself.

I received an epistle from from H.G dated July 8 containing the startling information generally enclosed in one of his letters. H. G is all right and he sent me some advise if follow out will certainly get the gravy for anyone.

He appears to be laboring under the delusion that Seattle is the coming city of the coast when any Oregonian can you that the proud distinction is held by Portland. I also suspect him of a strong leaning toward Repulicanism. Which indiscretion on the part of the public is I believe about to culminate into another national disaster, namely the election of one W. H Taft.

You don't want to worry about George, a little work will do him good. Bill out to be in Ore. he could put his horses in the pasture the year round.

Was very glad to hear from John Baker. I am something of a Hobo myself. You want to look into Bill Brown as will undoubtedly be able to tell you some history.

I have received the Trib regularly but would not miss it and have tied my affection to the chariot wheels of the Oregon Journal which is an independent sheet with a strong democratic leaning.

My appetite still continues robust and I must say Good Bye.

Your Bro,

H. W. Cooley

P.S Tell Cliff is about due to answer a letter