text:  Our exports of cotton and wool during the present year very considerably exceed those of a similar period in the preceding; and though there might be increase of export without increase of profit the simple fact that the districts of our great manufacturing staples are now more active and busy than they have been for a very considerable period coupled with the apparently well-founded belief that this increased activity is produced not by speculative but genuine demand are indications of the most pleasing and gratifying kind to all who are in the least concerned about the prosperity of the country