From the Richmond Whig, 4/13/1865

ROCKETTS, the port of Richmond, has within a few days been changed as by the wand of enchantment. The hum of trade is again heard where so recently nothing was audible but the occasional rumble of a Confederate wagon and the slow clanking of hammers on those absurd institutions, Mr. Mallory's iron-clads. Steamers and schooners line the wharves, and wagons, drays and vans rush to and from with all the eager enterprise of Broadway. Another equally striking change is being rapidly worked. The mud and filth and grass of four years had accumulated on the pavements and sidewalks, ranging in depth from six inches to two feet. By order of the military authorities, upwards of a thousand colored laborers are employed in the thorough cleansing of the streets and wharves, and already the work has made great progress. - If this system is persevered in, as judging from the action of the United States authorities in New Orleans we have no doubt it will be, during the coming summer - Richmond will be healthier than at any former period. It will be recollected that never during the occupation of New Orleans by the United States troops has yellow fever ever prevailed there as an epidemic; previous to the war Yellow Jack was one of the established institutions of that city.

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