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232 humbugs, and political mountebanks. A writer, speaking of The Press, says: "The Gate City Press is one of the strongest papers in the United States." The same writer, in referring to its editor, says: "His paper thoroughly reflects the man."

Mr. Bowser pursues a line of duty in his writings as editor which he regards as right, without fear or favor.

Another thing that has tended to make his paper a successful sheet is, the polished writers and astute thinkers who are with him upon its staff. Such men as Profs. W. W. Yates and G. N. Gresham, so well known in the literary world, are his associate editors.

Mr. Bowser's editorials always betray him as a defender of true Republican principles. The author regards his paper as one of the most successful efforts in the pioneer work of Afro-American journalism. Having amassed a little fortune, he is enabled to "soap" his Press, which is a mighty lever in the work.

Not only is Mr. Bowser an able writer, but he is an orator as well. In addition to his journalistic business, he is a large coal and grain dealer.

Mr. Spelman was born in Norwich, Conn., January 18, 1841, and was educated in the public schools of Connecticut. He entered upon newspaper work in 1858, in New York City, by opening a newspaper depot on Thompson street, near Amity, now West Third street, A year later he became a contributor to The Anglo-African, published by the Hamilton Brothers, and afterwards to The Pine and Palm, its successor, edited by James Redpath. He was a frequent contributor to the New York daily press, through the influence of Horace Greeley, George Alfred Townsend, Charles Fulton, Charles G. Halpin, William Caldwell, and his partner, Mr. Whitney.