street fairly began its present career in the days of Jacob Little,
"the great bear of Wall street." He opened an office here in 1822, and
by dint of such labor as few men are capable of performing, placed
himself at the head of American operators. His credit was good for any
amount, and his integrity was unimpeachable. He could sway the market as
he pleased, and his contracts were met with a punctuality and fidelity
which made "his word as good as his bond." Efforts were made to ruin
him, but his genius and far-sightedness enabled him to defeat all his
enemies with their own weapons. His gains were enormous, and so were his
losses. The civil war brought upon him disasters which he could not
surmount, and he died poor in the early part of 1861, leaving behind him
one of the names of which New York is proud.

At the corner of Nassau street, and looking down into Broad street, is
the Sub-Treasury of the United States, a handsome white marble edifice.
It is built in the Doric style of architecture, and its massive flight of
steps and imposing portico give to it a striking appearance. It is
constructed in the most substantial manner, and has a rear entrance on
Pine street. The interior is handsomely arranged, and tasteful but
secure iron gratings protect the employees from surprise and robbery.
The vaults are burglar proof. This is the principal depository of the
Federal Government, and millions of dollars are always in its vaults.
The building was erected for, and was used for some years as, a Custom
House.

From the steps of the Treasury one may enjoy a fine view of the entire
street, and of Broad street also. About the hour of noon the scene is
busy and exciting. The roadway in Wall street is full of struggling
vehicles, and long rows of cabs stand in waiting in Broad street for the
busy operators within the Exchanges. The side walks are crowded with an
eager, hurrying throng. The steps and street around the Stock Exchange,
in Broad street, are black with men who are shouting, pushing, and
struggling in the effort to turn the transactions of the day to their
advantage. Overhead is an intricate maze of telegraph wires, along which
flow the quick and feverish pulsations of the great financial heart of
the country. The sunlight falls brightly and cheerily over it all, and
at intervals the clear, sweet chimes of old Trinity come floating down
the street high above the noise and strife below them.

Diagonall