The sugar crop of 1861.
--We copy the following interesting statement from the Franklin (La.) Banner, of the 31st ult.:‘ There have been many speculations of late in relation to the growing sugar crop, as to its probable amount, the demand and the prices. As to the amount, if no storms or other unforeseen disasters occur to injure the crop, it will doubtless reach over 400,000 hhds. The crop is generally good through all the sugar-growing parishes. Under favorable circumstances, it may come up to 500,000 hhds. But half that amount this year would yield more profit to the planter than he could realize from a full crop.
The West in prosperous times consumes 300,000 hhds. of Louisiana sugar. The blockade has cut off this market. Portions of Missouri and Kentucky will obtain a small amount, but the blockaded States will be the principal consumers. Texas can get no Louisiana sugar, except those portions that get their supplies through the Red River navigation. But she will consume her own crop, which, fortunately for her, is made in that part of the State whose communication with New Orleans is cut off by the blockade.
Fortunately for the sugar planter, by means of railroads and navigable streams the sugar crop can be conveniently sent to all portions of the Confederated States; and by blockading these States, Lincoln benefits the sugar planter by compelling citizens to use Louisiana sugar alone; and when by habit they acquire a taste for this kind of sugar, like the Western people, they will continue to use it in after years. So, if the sugar planter loses the West as a customer, he will gain the South, at a period, too, when the West will begin to wane in her prosperity, while the South bids fair to be a thrifty and valuable customer.
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