The Hoodlum Outbreak

Again, last night, the pestilent hoodlum gangs committed wanton and atrocious deeds of violence, incendiarism—if not also of murder—in portions of the city. Several Chinese wash-houses were attacked and pillaged and set fire, and in one house, which was consumed, the bodies of two Chinamen were found. It is supposed they were first robbed and murdered by the hoodlums. The Police were on duty in full force all night, and at a late hour order prevailed; but there is danger of nightly outrages until this desperate and dangerous element shall be severely taught that they cannot ride rough-shod over the law without incurring its extreme penalties.

The violence of these desperately wicked gangs is in no way attributable to the Associations which are organized into Anti-Coolie Clubs. The members of these Clubs are mostly well-behaved workingmen, who propose to maintain law and order, and their meetings and conduct have so far shown that they are themselves utterly opposed to lawlessness and outbreaks. Their mass meeting on Monday night demonstrated this disposition and determination on the part of the Anti-Coolie organizations, and not one of their appointed speakers gave utterance to an intemperate or incendiary sentiment.

The apprehension of danger from the hoodlums has become so grave that, at the instance of Gen. John McComb, of the State Militia, commanding in this Division, the Mayor, Wm. T. Coleman, and a number of influential citizens, a Committee of Safety has been organized for the emergency. It will receive the approbation and support of every good citizen, in the interest of law and order. As things are, every resident is involved in the preservation of peace. Life as well as property is at stake. Let us all engage to protect and preserve both.