FINANCIAL AND COMMERCIAL.

The general bank business of Chicago last week was rather dull. But few new business contracts were made as everyone was waiting for the New Year to begin before extending business.

In the loan market money was quoted throughout the week at 6@7 per cent interest.

Eastern exchange opened Saturday at 25c off between banks, but subsequently sales were made at 25c per $1,000 premium. The market closed at 25@30c per $1,000 premium.

Railway stocks in New York with the exception of Northern Pacific were firm on Saturday.

Government securities remain unchanged at last week's quotations.

4's coupons. 1907Q. Apr.123
4's reg., 1907Q. Apr.122
4½'s coupon, 1891Q. Mar.114
4½'s registered, 1891Q. Mar.114
3's registeredQ. Mar.100