“ It is built on slopes rising gradually from the river banks into wooded hills, with tall mountains in the distance—a site of great natural beauty that is enhanced by the fine trees and lawns of the city. In the vicinity are numerous picturesque waterfalls; and Portland Heights, in the western part of the city, command a superb view of the distant mountains and the valleys of the Columbia and the Willamette. ”

“ The government is vested in a mayor, elected every two years, and a unicameral council, and in administrative officials, the majority of whom are appointed by the mayor, or nominated by him with the consent of the council. ”

“ The tributary region, rich in timber and in agricultural and mineral resources, is one of the most productive in the United States, though but partly developed. In 1901 the foreign commerce of the port was valued at nearly $12,000,000, the exports, principally grain, flour, and lumber, constituting a very large proportion of this total. ”