The Salt Lake herald. [volume] (Salt Lake City [Utah]) 1870-1909, 1885-05-20
DEFENSE FOR BLACKFOOT.
An Idaho officer Strikes Back
at "Raritus."
OXFORD, Idaho, May II, 1885.

OXFORD, Idaho, May II, 1885.
To the Editor of THE HERALD:
l notice in your issue of the
18th inst, a communication from
Blackfoot, over the signature of "Rari-
tus," and in justice to the citizens of
Bingham County, Idaho, l think an
answer, or reference to the same will
not be out of place. 1 do not court
newspaper" notoriety, but | feel it my
duty, as we'll as the duty of every other
good citizen of this county, to express
themselves in regard to such willful
Misrepresentation Of facts, as the letter
referred to contains. Having been
assessor of this county for the past six
wears, am, perhaps, as we'll, or better
acquainted with the people, and their
financial status than "Rarltus." The
town of Blackfoot is rapidly
growing and has thriving,
Industrious population. 1t can also
boast of large number of very fine pri
yate residences that are valuable and
substantial, and facts and figures will
show that the people of Blackfoot pay
as much taxes as any other town in
Bingham county. "Raritus" speaks of
the town being all saloons, etc. There
are four saloons in the town; gambling
bells and bawdy houses, none that lam
aware of Sc far as the blacklegs, gamb-
lers and ruffians generally, as referred
to by "Raritus. " are concerned, perhaps
he is not sufficiently acquainted with
that class of men to write understand
ingly in the matter. In his disrespect-
full reference to the officers of the court,
jury, attorneys, marshals, sheriffs, ETC.,
being "bowled up to the nozzle" l do
not comprehend his slang phrases. l do
know that the gentlemen referred to
are an honorable set of men, being
personally acquainted with most of
them. l also believe their official
capacity would compare favorably with
any person who would SANDER them
over nom de plume. In regard to the
reference made to VIM. d. Hendricks,
Esq, wrangling with deputies, i'll
natured remarks being passed. etc.,
am authorized by Mr.. Hendricks him.
self to say that there is no trath in the
assertion whatever. Mr.. Hendricks
states that his relations with all the
Federal officials of Idaho have been
pleasant as circumstances would admit
Of; that he has been treated courteously
SGullGludlllN
John D. Jones, of Malad, referred to by
"Raritus," Mr.. Hendricks said that
when he pledged himself to the officers.
whose business it was to attend to the
matter, that the fine should be paid
at the time specified, the Of
fCers told him that his guarantee
was quite sufficient, no wrangling nor
ill-natured remarks. So far as the
whisky holding out" (as referred to by
'Raritus'0 cutting any figure in the
decision of the fate of the ten polygamy
cases he speaks of, think it is base,
uncalled for SANDER on the honorable
court, the officers in attendance on the
court and the honorable jurieS.
Referring to the venerable, patriarchal,
white-headed, decrepit old gentleman,
who appears to be tottering on the verge
OF the grave, ETC., etc, | will say he Is
doing quite well, taking his three meals
per day at the hotel regularly; he Is
getting very fat and strong, and Is so
well satisfied with his quarters that l
understand he wishes his case continued.
And now, Mr.. Editor, few
Words in conclusion. tedera!
oCi1lcials are paid by our United
states government for dong thelr
9uty and are sworn so to do, ana the
Federal officials of Idaho Territory are
good officers, and as honorab' and
atfable gentlemen have no sn .riors
eay'chere | do not know who Raritus
Is, neither do 1 care, but when he lea rms
% write the truth, perhaps he will not
De ashamed of his true name. Trusting
you will not be wearied with this long
Communication, and that you will pub
nsh the same in justice to the citizens
Of Bingham County, and of Blackfoot
Particular, the honorable court, lures,
attorneys, marshals, sheriffs, etc. l.
subscribe myself
Very respectfully, yours.
VIZ 4 FISHER.