Newspaper Page Text
Chronicle & Sentinel.
Corrtspond* nee of the Baltimore American.
THIRTY•¥OI HTIi CONCRKSS—:*«! SM»».*io«».
1N T SENATE Feb. g
The Senate passed the House bill prohibiting me
importation of obscene prints,statoettea, etc. Ateo,
the House bill establishing a port of delivery at
Augunta, Georgia, ami the House bill making ap
propriations for the compietion of military roads to
Oregon.
On motion of Mr (JiitUnnien the He Date pro
ceeded to the consideration of the House joint ra*o
lutiou increasing the pay of Lieutenant General
Hcott After a brief discussion the farther con
sideration of the subject vn po»tp -ued until Mon
day
The Senate then took up the deficiency bill and
Btnick out tie item appropriating for the
purchase of books to l»e distributed among the mein
bera of the I loose of Representatives.
The deficiency bill was passed as were also the
House bill establishing three additional land office?
in Nebraska and three in Kansas.
On motion of Mr Foster, the committee on the
District of Columbia was instructed to report a bill
making an appropriation for enclosing and planting
Lafayette square with trees.
After a recess the Senate proceeded to the cob
sideration of the Executive, Judicial and
lative bil’. An amendment was adopted, making
an appropriation for the appointment of a minister
to Persia.
An amendment was offered by Mr. Brown to
apportion the clerkships in the Federal Depart
ments among the States according to the Federal
ratio was debated and then rejected , yea* 1 •
nays 27
The Senate then adjourned
HOUSE.
Tke report of tbe Select Coratr.it toe in He ease
of Mr. Edward, was read an previously
Mr Kdwards remarked that he could say honest
ly and with a clear conscience that hen.-vetgave
hi* vote on any bill which was noMrßoned by I U.
judgment. In his intercourse with the members of
this Ifoose. be had universally sought to be on term*
of friendship with them and >f be Ua<l unwittingly
given offence to any one, he asked tus pardon He
could sav that the hours spent here in associating
with gentlemen, were the meet agreeable of his Hie,
and he should carry with him into bis retirement,
the conviction that he never sought to do any one
iTiffelt in his own heart that he never intended to
wrong any member. He had, however, become sat
isfied? from the votes taken on the oilier cases, that
although gentlemen on all sides sympathized with
him in bis position, he could exper t to have no bet
ter fate than the others charged with these grave
offences. His answer to the committee having
been disregarded, and Hie case standing upon the
testimony of Mr. Paine alone, his own statement of
innocence availed him nothing , nor could be at this
time make such explanations as would relieve bun
from effect of Mr. Paine's testimony. He wished
to relieve his personal friends from the presure
which have been marie upon them in their own im
mediate localities from all embarrassment. There
fore he had determined to resign his seat, he bsving
already informed the Governor of New \ ork of that
<>n motion of Mr Ritchie the resolution* In Mr Ed
ward*’ case were then tabled.
The reaolutiou for the expulsion of Mr. Simonton
wa* then taken up.
Mr. Kelsey said that if lie had succeeded m ob
taining the floor at an early stage of the proceedings,
he should have presented his views relative to these
reports somewhat at length. He now wished aim
ply Uj remark, that the only difference m the Select
Committee had grown out of the contrary opinions
m to proper reports to be made to the House.
At this late period of the session it would be mex
«• unable were he to occupy the time of the House
Unless some friend of Mr. Simon ton desired to be
heard in his behalf, he should content himself with
moving the previous question. ......
Mr Sage moved an amendment including Mr.
Triplett in the expulsion resolution.
Mr. Houston said he wished to exclude all persona
engaged in the prosecution of claims from the floor.
It w i?ft but a temporary relief to expel one man and
let in five hundred. _ _ .
The Speaker said that no reporter had been ad
mitted to the floor excepting on the condition that
he was not engaged in the prosecution of claims;
and in every instance with one exception they have
replied that they were not so engaged.
Mr. Jones, of Tennessee, remarked that the door
keeper should keep out all persons not entitled to a
right to the floor.
The Speaker replied that the doorkeeper had such
instructions.
Mr Jones said, if so, tbe doorkeeper had not en
forced the rule.
Mr. Humphrey Marshall remarked that Mr. Trip
lett had obtained a right to occupy a reporter s seat
on his recommendation, but lie had not exercised the
privilege.
Mr. Burnett said as Mr. Simonton hail been heard
in his defence Mr. Triplett should have the same
right. .
The resolution was amended by inserting Mr. Trip
lett's name and then passed, expelling both lie and
Mr. Simonton from the House as reporters.
The House then took up the bill to protect thepeo
pie against corrupt and secret influences in matters
of legislation.
• Mr. Kulnev thought, the bill ought to pass now but
he moved it be referred to the committee of the whole
on the state of the Union.
Mr. Quitman thought it a very dangerous bill and
moved to lay it on the tabic.
Mr. Orr said that the Committee did not expect to
pass the bill, and hoped that Mr. Quitman’s motion
would be agreed to.
The House refused to table—Yeas, 81 . Nays, 96.
The House then passed the bill. Yeas, 101-, Nays,
83.
Mr. Humphrey Marshall moved a reconsideration
of the vote. He said it might as well be known to
the American people, that while this bill was pass
ing gentlemen were for the first time taking a look
lit it The bill ought not to become a law.
Mr. Quitman vigorously opposed tho bill, ns did
also Messrs. Booocknnd Kunkcl.
Mr. Davis, of Maryland, defended it, arguingthat
it merely proposed to make law an opinion of the
Supreme Court of the United States, declaring void
till contracts for pecuniary compensation, contin
gent on the pains and penalties for secret and sinis
ter influences on that subject.
The vote by winch the bill was passed was re
considered yeas, 66 . nays, 128; and the bill was
then laid upon the table.
Mr. Washburn, of Illinois, under a suspension of
the rules, offered a resolution to discharge the Com
mittee ot the Whole on the State of the Union, from
further consideration of the bill for the improvement
of Cape Fear river, and that amendments to the
same shall be in order. The resolution was rejected
—yeas 106, nays 66.
The Tariff bill, us amended by the Senate, was
taken up. Mr. Todd moved to lay it. upon the ta
ble . but the question was decided in the negative—
yeas32 ; nays 138. The House then having non
concurred In the Senate’s amendment a committee
was asked of the Senate on the bill. Adjourned.
IN SENATE March t>.
Mr. Cass presented the joint resolutions of the Le
gislature of Michigan on tiie .subject of slavery in
the territories, instructing the Senators of said State,
and re questing their Representatives to resist the
admission of any more slave States into the Union.
Mr. Cass proceeded to make some remarks in re
lation to said resolutions.
Mr. Toombs from the Committee on the Judicia
ry, to whom was referred the resolution instructing
them to inquire into the proper construction of the
Congressional compensation act, reported as their
opinion, that in all cases where a member is elected
alter the first regular session, his compensation docs
not e umnecoe until the time of his election, and
is to be computed at the rate prescribed by law
until the cm! of the term The report was agreed
to.
Mi. Dodge presented the credentials of Mr. Doo
little, elected a Senator by the Legislature of Wis
consin, and Mr. Cass presented* those of Mr. Bright,
elected a Senator by the Legislature of Indiana,
each for four years from the Itli of March.
The Senate, by a vote of 28 against 25, after some
debate, laid upon the table the resolution heretofore
reported from the Committee on the Judiciary, pro
viding for the taking of oral testimony in the case of
the contested election of Mr. Fitch, one of the sitting
members from Indiana.
The Senate then proceeded to the consideration of
the Army Appropriation bill.
Mr. Cass said, lie knew the value of time at this
period of the session, and therefore, he should de
tain the Senate only a short time. It would be ab
surd from reading the resolution that his colleague
and himself were placed in a situation requiring
some explanation. It was no pleasant task for a
Senator to be compelled to dissent from such resolu
tions ami disobey the instructions of the Legislature
of his State. The resolutions say: “Whereas the
instructions were utterly disregarded, notwithstand
ing tin* previous and often repeated avowal, on the
part of our Senators of the doctrine of instructions,
etc.”
This assertion, with respect to himself and col-;
league, was incorrect. What was precisely meant
by “Doctrineof Instructions,” he could not under
take to say, b it he would remark that he had alluded
to this subject but twice since ho had been in the
Senate. The first time to avow* his belief in the
right of giving instructions with certain limitations ;
and the second time, to snv that in the case then un
der consideration, when he had received certain in
structions from the Legislature of Michigan, ho
would uot obey them, lie read extracts from his
remarks made in 1850—wherein he acknowledged
those instructions were such ns the Legislature had
a right to give, but yet he suid when the vote came
lie would resign his seat rather than obey them. He
at that time expressed the opinion that these were
Ins limitat ions upon the right of a .Legislature to in
struct its Senators, and what those limitations were
he explained subsequently, in his remarks in 1851,
when he rocived other instructions.
lie alluded to the cases where uew parties hold
ing different views, ami m many respects discord
ant ones, might obtain an ascendancy in the Legis
lature, and give instructions contrary to the known
will of the people. In such a case he should decline
either to obey instructions or resign his seat. These
were all the cases in which he had alluded to the
subject siuce he had been in the Senate.
Mr. Stuart moved and the Senate postponed the
further consideration of the joint resolutions until the
lftth of March.
10 o’clock.—The Senate has been lour hours de
baling the Army bill and is still in session.
The House concurred in the proposition of the
Senate to suspend the joint rules which prescribe
that no bill that shall have passed one House shall
be sent for concurrence to the other on either of the
three last days of the session, ami no bill or resolu
tion that shall have passed both Houses shall be
presented to the President of the United States for
ins apptobation on the last day of the session.
Mr Mace reported a bill establishing many new
poet routes in the United States and Territories,
which was passed.
Mr. Benson moved a suspension of the rules in or
der to take upland pass the Senate bill appropriating
two millions ot dollars tor the construct ion of ten
aloope-ot-war Motion negatived—.voas 109, uavs
75, a vote of t wo-thirds being necessary. •
Mr. Campbell, of Ohio, reported from the Com
mittee of Y\ ays apd Means a bill to depart he sur
plus reveuue. reserving Two millions ot dollars, with
the several States, to bo refunded when the public
exigencies require. The bill was passed. Yeas 119
—nays 79.
The House, under a suspension of the rules, passed
the bill authorizing tho Secretary of War to enter
into a contract for removing the obstructions iu the
Mississippi river from the Baliae to the Desmoines
rapids
10 o’clock.—The House is stiil in session. Among
other business this evening the committee of con
fereuce on the tariff bill reported unanimously re
commending an agreement generally with the re
ductions in the schedule* proposed by the Senate,
ami securing the material parts of the House's free
list.
A motion to table it received only about one-third
of the votes cast, and this may be considered as m
dioative of its acceptance.
IN SENATE .March 3.
The Senate agreed to the House amendment to
the Minnesota Hand Hill, giving two hundred thous
and acres of land to Alabama for railroad purposes
The bill avoids nearly altogether the range of lands
proposed in the bill heretofore repealed by Congress.
Minnesota is to have the entire disposal of them.
This is the Minnesota bill as prepared by the House
committee on public lands, and m connection with
which subject, corruption was alleged to exist
The Senate passed the fortification bill and the
bit! tor the construction of a penitentiary m Xe
bracks. and one in Kansaa, and the Navy appropri
ation bill.
Mr. Weller presented a communication from the
Vice President elect. Mr. Breckinridge, accepting
the office, and promising to try to fulfil its duties.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the
bill making appropriations for certain civil expenses
of the Government tor the ensuing year.
Mr. Pratt moved to amend the mil by adding an
appropriation of SIOO,OOO for commencing the con
struction of a substantial bridge acres-* the Potomac
river, at the Georgetown aoueduct, according to
the plan proposed by Alfred L. Hives, civil en
gineer.
Mr. Rusk moved to amend the amendment by
adding a clause authorizing the Secretary of the In
terior, for the purpose of facilitating transportation
of the mails between the North and the .South, to
grant right of way over the long bridge to any
company operating a railroad between Washington
and Alexandria
A debate th-u e i-ucd.
Mr. Bright said that the effect of 'aymg a railroad
track over the bridge Would bo to drive off just such
travel as some gentlemen were desirous ot accom
modating, for it wa-? a weak structure at best. He
would prefer to vote for an appropriation to remove
the bridge and construct another higher up the
river.
Mr. Clay characterized the Long bridge as a
.great nuisance in many reaped.?. It was a nui
sance to the people of Georgetown, because it ob
structed their navigation—it was a nuisance to the
people of Washington because it made the western
portion of the city very sickly, and it wag a nui
sance to travellers, who were sometimes compelled
to wait an hour for vessels to pass through the
draw.
The amendment* were rejected, as was likewise
that appropriating SIO,OOO for the repair of the
Long bridge.
An amendment was mad* appropriating $i,000.-
000 fi r the continuation c£ Washington Acqueduct,
and $500,000 for the construe 4 *on ot the new dome
to the Capitol.
The bill wo* then further a mend ed and passed.
HOUSE.
The House concurred in tbe Senate s amendment
providing fur a ir.outilly, weekly or semi weekly iet -
ter mail irotn Mu*ye.-tppi to Sian Krancieco.
The House pawed the UH•ulborizing the Secre
tary of Lhe Treasury to enter into contract for the
care of nick and disabled sailor* and boatmen ; and
tbe Senate bill to perfect tbe borne valuation prm
cinfo in the Tariff act of 1816. . .
Sf - Nichole, from tbe Committee on Printing,
made a report. which wa* agreed to, in favor of
printing two hundred thousand copies of the agri
cultural portion of the report of the Commissioner of
* "jl r Viol ence, from the joint committee appointed
to wait on the President and Vice President elect,
reported that they had performed that duty, and
that those gentlemen, while accepting the high trust,
express their gratitude to their countrymen, ami
earn they would endeavor so to act, that their conh
dence should not be abused, nor their expectations
disappointed.
Various bills, mostly of a private character, were
passed.
Our latest account* from Washington, up to 1
o’clock this morning, left both Houses engaged in
adjusting disagreeing amendments to the appropri
ation bill.— iltporur.
IN SENATE March 4.
The Senate was principally engaged with the ap
propriation b.lls.
It lias adjourned for Legislative business) *i«e
die.
HOUSE
The House passed the Senate joint resolution di
recting that approoriate medal* be presented to lir.
Kane and his Arctic companions as a testimony of
the high estimation in which Congress held their
merits and services.
Mr. Aiken offered a resolution that the thanks of
the House are due and are hereby tendered to Hon.
Mr. Banks for the able, impartial and dignified man
ner in which he has discharged his duties as Speaker
during the present session.
Messrs. Craige, Wheeler and others objected to
the reception of the resolution.
Tiie Speaker pro. tern , (Mr, Haven,) decided that
the resolution w as a ipiestion of privilege.
Mr McMullen eaid that he voted against Mr.
Banks. There was much in his conduct he could ap
prove ami much that he wa* called upon to con
demn as one of the representatives from Virginia.
He was not only opposed to the resolution, but he
entered his solemn protest ajmiust it. It came from
the last State in the Union be supposed it would
corne from. He regretted that Mr. Aiken had intro
duced it, and if he could take hack the vote he gave
the latter tor Speaker he would do it.
Mr. Seward regretted exeeedignly that there had
been any manifestation of feeling on this subject
He came from the State of Georgia which occupies
a* proud a position a* Virginia or any other State.—
He came here witli all his Southern prejudices
against the occupant of tbe Chair.
He had witnessed his conduct closely and scruti
nized it at every step and must say lie had seen as
much fairness in Mr. Banks as in the occupant ot
the Chair of any legislative body elsewhere. He
took pleasure, coming from the South as he did, and
differing with the occupant of the chair, to vote for
the resolution and raise Ids voice in doing justice to
a political adversary.
Great confusion here existed. Mr. Hams, of Illi
nois, appealed from the decision that the resolution
was a privileged question. [Cries of “too late.”]
Mr, Harris loudly maintained that he was nut thus
to be cut off from obtaining the floor.
Mr. Houston appealed to gent omen to vote on the
resolution anil not raise points of order.
Mr. Keitt a*ked Mr. Harris to withdraw his ap
peal.
Mr. Harris did so, on oouditioii that members
oould record their votes, and finally, alter further
debate the resolution was adopted—yeas I Id, nays
[second despatch.]
Washington, March 4—Noon.—Amid deafening
con.onion, the House passed several compensation
resolutions and bills. Other business was also at
tempted by some fifty or more members.
The Speaker at near la o’clock resumed the chair
and delivered a brief but eloquent address in ac
knowledgment of the honor bestowed upon him,
wishing all the members a safe return to their homes.
He was warmly applauded. At its conclusion, the
House was declared adjourned sine die.
The crowd about the Senate is so dense that the
messenger is unable to reach the Senate reporter to
learn what action wast&lien before Ihe final adjourn
ment.
l’l'orreriiiipM of the Senate in Extra
.Hai’tii Jill.
On motion of Mr. Douglas, the oath of office was
administered to Hon. James M. Mason by lion. J.
A. Pearce, and Mr. M. was appointed President of
the Senate pro h rn.
The following Senators then .severally took the
oath of office : Messrs. Bayard, of Delaware, Bright ,
of Indiana, Broderick, of California, Cameron, of
Pennsylvania ; Chandler, of Michigan ; Davis, of
Mississippi; Dixon, of Connecticut ; Doolittle, of
Wisconsin; Hamlin, of Maine ; Kennedy, of Mary
land ; King, of New York; Mallory, of Florida;
Polk, of Missouri; Rusk, of Texas ; Sumner, of
Massachusetts ; Thomson, of New Jersey ; and
Wade, of Ohio.
The Vice President elect was introduc ed by the
committee of arrangements, and the oath of office
was administered to him; whereupon he took the
chair, and made a brief address to the Senate.
On motion by Mr. Mason, it was ordered that
when the Senate adjourn to-day it be to meet at one
o’clock to morrow.
After the inauguration ceremonies were conclud
ed, the Senate returned to their chamber, and iin
mediately adjourned.
Washington, March s.—The Senate re-assem
bled to-day pursuant to adjournment.
Oil motion of Mr. Allen a committee of two mem
bers were appointed to wait upon the President of
the United States and inform him that the Senate
have re-assembled, and are ready to receive any
communication he may be pleased to make.
Subsequently Mr. Allen reported that the Presi
dent will send a communication to-morrow.
The following resolutions were offered, and lie
over under the rule :
By Mr. Pugh. That the Senate adjourn without
day on Monday next.
By Mr. Mason. That the Committee Clerks
and Pages of the last be continued during the pre
sent session.
By Mr. Bright. That the Chaplain of the last be
retained during the present session.
Mr. Briggs offered an amendment thereto, invi
ting ministers of the Gospel residing in Washington
to officiate alternately.
On motion of Mr. Beniamin the Senate proceeded
to the consideration of the resolution to remodel
the standing committees, and shortly afterwards ad
journed.
Washington, March 6.—Mr. Seward presented
the petition of certain subjects of her Majesty Vic
toria, Queen of Great Britain and Ireland, relating
to a convention, signed at Paris the loth of April,
1856, and on his own motion it was not received.
Mr. Bigler presented a protest of forty-four mem
bers of the House of Representatives, and a protest
of fifteen members of the Senate of the Slate of
Pennsylvania, against the proceedings under which
the Hon. Simon Cameron claims to represent that
State, in the Senate of the United States, from the
4th of March, 1857.
On motion of Mr. Pearce the Hon. James M. Ma
son was appointed to till a vacancy in the Board of
Regents of the Smithsonian Institute.
Mr. Yulee presented the credentials of Stephen
R. Mallory, elected a Senator by the General As
sembly ot the State of Florida for six years from the
4th of March, 1857.
The Senate confirmed President Buchanan’s
nominations for Cabinet officers, which are as fol
lows :
Secretary of State—Lewis Cass, of Michigan.
Secretary of the Treasury—Howell Cobb, of Ga.
Secretary of Wav—John B. Floyd, of Va.
Secretary of the Navy—lsaac Toucey, of Conn.
Secretary of the Interior—Jacob Thompson, of
Mississippi.
Postmaster General—Aaron V. Brown, of Tenn.
Attorney General—Samuel W. Black, of Pa.
The last oiliee was tendered to Mr. O’Connor, of
New York, but he positively declined.
After a brief Executive session, the Senate ad
journed.
The Drc«l Scolh Case—lmportant Decision of
the I’. S. Supreme Court*
Washington, March 6. —The opinion of the Su
premo Court in the Dred Scott case was delivered
oy Chief Justice Taney to-day. It was a full aud
elaborate statement of the views of the Court.—
They have decided the following, al’ s important
{Hunts :
First—Negroes, whether slaves or free—that is
men of the African race—are not citizens of the U.
States, by the Constitution.
Second—The ordinance of 1787 had no indepen
dent constitutional force or legal effect subsequently
to the adoption of the Constitution . aud could not
operate ot itself to confer freedom or citizenship,
within the Northwest territory, on negroes jtiot citi
zens by the Constitution.
Three—The provisions of the act of 1820, com
monly called the Missouri Compromise, iu so far as
it undertook to exclude negro slavery and comnui
nicate freedom aud citizenship to negroes in the
northern part of the Louisiana session, was a legis
lative act exceeding the powers of Congress and
void, and of no legal effect to that end.
In deciding these main points the Supreme Court
have determined the following incidental {Hunts :
First—The expression “territory and other prop
erty.” of the Union, in the Constitution applies un
terms) only to such territory as the Union possessed
at the time of the adoption of the Constitution.
Second—The rights of citizens of the United
States emigrating mto any Federal territory aud the
power of the Federal government there depend on
the general provisions of the Constitution, which
defines in this as iu all other respects, the powers of
Congress.
Third—As Congi ess does not possess power itself to
make enactments relative to the persona or propert y
of citizens of the United States in Federal territory,
other than such as the Constitution confers, so it can
not constitutionally delegate any such powers to a
Territorial government organized by it under the
Constitution.
Fourth—The legal condition of a slave in the
State of Missouri is not affected by the temporary
sojourn of such slave in any other State, but at his
return his condition still depends on the laws of Mis
souri. As she plaintiff was not a citizen of Mis
sour i and there tore oould not sue in the Courts of
the United States, his suit must be dismissed for
want of jurisdiction.
The delivery of this opinion occupied about three
hours, and was listened to with proround attention
by those m the crowded court room Among the
auditors were gentlemen of eminent legal ability,
and a due proportion of ladies.
Judge Nelson stated the merits of the cnim the
I question being whether or not the removal of Scott
troui Missouri with hi* master to Illinois with a view
; of temporary residence worked his emancipation.—
| He maintained that the question depended solely on
| the law of Missouri, and for that reason the judg
| meet of the Court below should be affirmed. *
[ Judge Catron believed that the Supreme Court
I has jurisdiction to decide the merits of the case He
argued that Congress could not do directly what it
j could uot do indirectly. If it could exclude one
species of property it could exclude another. With
regard to the Territories ceded. Congress could go
vern them only with the restrictions of the States
which ced*d them, and the Missouri act of 1800 vio
lated the leading features of the Constitution and was
therefore void. He concurred with his brother
Judges that Scott is a slave and was so when the
suit was brought.
Several of the other judges are to deliver their
views to-morrow.
Mail Robbery.—A letter from the Poetmastei
at Montgomery, dated 3d instant, to the Postniasier
of this city, states that the pouch containing valua
ble packages, mailed at that office for Charleston,
on the 12th of October last, was stolen from the rail
load depot, near that city, bv a negro man employ
ed to run with the cars between Montgomery and
Columbus . Ga. He was arrested at New Orleans
and brought back to Montgomery on the 2d, and
was confined in jail. lie confesses to having taken
the pouch and abstracting aud using its contents. —
The sums stolen at different times amounted to
about seven thousand dollars.— Ch. Courier.
To the ladies of New Bedford belongs the credit of
insfitutingthe latest aud highest order of surprise
fiarties. The objects of them visits are poor thmi
ies.fo whom they take supplies of clothing aud
food aud stay aud make the family happy for the
evening.
From t'nc lioh >•> r< .! ■ ■ i n :•>.
Tie tuuuaiir.-iiioii el ,’ri--i.o . - Li:.-; ri - .
-id,-m ol ihe Lein-,1 Strut-..
Washington - , March 4,18 m. |
The dawning of tbe great National day on which i
the mystery of Republicanism is quadrennially «W- i
vekiped to the wondcrii g view of the wlole civilized 1
world —the day on which the reins o! Government
are laid down" and taken up—w hen the President ;
cast* aside his robesof office an 1 becomes a simple
citizen, end tbe simple oiliz-u is clothed with the
powers of a supreme Executive of the Nation —was
ushered in at dav break by tbe firing of cannon.and
the ringing of bells, with the blasts of martial music
announcing tbe assembling of the military at t-ieir
armories and quarters for escort duty to the various
companies that are expected to arrive flora?* tfr.
morning to take part in the ceremonies of tue da_,.
Even at that earlyhour the Avenue was
with pedestrians and vehicles, the
strangers from the surroundiii-' o.atutry. thteking m
by eveiyroad, while a good.y number were Utme
who hid spent tne n, t in perambulating the
streets, some for a prolongation ot the |Oium ation,
and other- for the ntu m tW they eoiiiu not obtain
more de.-irable quarter* than standing or sitt.ug ta
the various bar-rcome —and others attain who were
jut returning from the Inauguration ball given at
‘Caruai’a SahjOß by 12th Ward D mocraUe Associa
tion of Philadelphia.
In the midst of this stirring scene,at an hour w hen
ail Wa*hington is usually oozing off the effect* of
late hours, workmen could be seen hanging decora
tions in honor of the incoming of spec ial favorites,
whilst otherß keeping nationality strictly in view,
were satisfied with throwing the “stars and
to the breeze from every available point, giving to
the whole city a gala appearance, fitting the august
occasion, and gratifying to the great concourse of
citizens from all parts of our wide-spread country,
who had assembled here—many to witness the
crowning triumph of party labors, many to seek the
rewards of political service and party-fealty, in a
«hare of the spoil* of office —but the greater and
larger number to witness those national ceremonies
that every American citizen feel* a desire anu a cu
riosity to see performed once in a life time.
At 9 o’clock the current of ladies be gan to set to
ward* the Capitol, and a broad stream continued to
tiow up both sides of the avenue, without the slight
est cessation until 12 o’clock, tilling the interior,
overflowing the grounds, presenting a solid mses of
gay dreaees and flowering ribbons.
The marching and countermarching of the mili
tary, and the movement of the different clubs to
their respective places of rendezvous, kept up one
continual echo of martial music throughout the
whole line of the avenue, from the President’* house
to the Capitol, and from nine o’clock until twelve it
presented a scene of animation such as has never
been witnessed in Washington before. Men, wo
men and children were seeking every available po
sition from which a fcifiht. of the anticipated pageant
could be had, and the balconies, windows and door
ways were thronged to their utmost capacities. The
boys were obtaining lodgments iu the trees and on
the awning posts, and the ladies finally commenced
to mount the dry good* boxes in front of the stores.
The throng of persons on the avenue was unprece
dented, and the number of strangers in the city is
believed to be fully double the number that were
here at the inauguration of President Pierce. The
hotel accommodations are much larger now than
then, and although hotels, private dwellings, and
boarding house* were last night filled, even to an
occupant for the hearth rug, many thousands found
it impossible to obtain even a vacant chair to sit
upon. They, however, amused themselves at the
Capitol, Congress being in session all night, and in
perambulating the streets.
The weather wa* also most propitious for an im
mense display on the avenue. The sun shown out
bright ana beautiful, and even those standing in the
open air felt no inconvenience from cold. Conse
quently there was nothing to prevent an immense
gathering, and the whole population of the city and
surrounding country were concentrated along the
line of procession, and it may safely be said that it
passed before at least 160,000 spectators. Maryland,
, Pennsylvania and V'irginia ware largely represent
ed on the avenue, and it is asserted that every
tenth man was a Pennsylvanian, eager for the —
, spoils. Mr. Buchanan is, however, too old ami ex
perienced a politician not to steer clear of the traps
that would catch and cripple a younger and less ex
perienced man, and politicians seeking office make
less headway with him than those who seek nothing
, and desire nothing. He appears to know them in
stinctively, and presents them a cold shoulder at the
first interview’. Indeed, the impression here is, that
t he has formed a determination to hold himself free
to act as he thinks proper in the matter of appoint
, ments, hoping to profit by experience and avoid that
stupendous trouble which has rendered the Execu
tive office one of constant uneasiness and excitement
to its possessor.
Marshal Selden with his mounted aids, to the num
ber of over two hundred, finely mounted and gaily
, caparisoned writh sashes and badges, assembled on
New York avenue at an early hour iu the morning
, to receive their final orders, and were soon scatter
ed all over the city marshalling their divisions into
lines, and preparing for the grand pageant. Tbe
carriages of the foreign ministers were also moving
about with their occupants arranged in rich court
i dresses.
A 12 o’clock, the line of procession having been
formed, Major General Quitman, as Marshal iu-
Chief of the military, with Ids immediate aids, con
sisting of the following distinguished gentlemen,
took their position.
MARSHAL IN CHJLF,
General John A. Quitman.
Aids. | Aids.
Captain Daniel Ratcliffe, Col. S. C. Staumbaugh,
Captain 11. B. Tyler, General John Tyler,
Dr. A. Y. P. Garnett, R. Offld, Esq., George-
I)r. William Jones, i town,
Maj. A. O. P. Nicholson, Dr. Aaron, W. Miller,
Maj J. N. Baker, | II. Caperfctn, Esquire
Maj. Arnold Harris, j Georgetown,
C. l>odge, Esq., George- 1 1-I. S. Davis,
town, Col. S. L. Lewis,
Col. E. B. Robinson, Cant. John Rainbow,
Col. Jno. A. B. Leonard, H. Dunlap, Esq., Phil’a,
Montgomery, co., Md., Gen. Adam Miller, Phil’a,
A. Moise, Jr., of Tenn., lCol. D. M. Bull, of Pu.,
Dr. Bejamin King. |Maj. Gen. B. W. S. Cabell.
The military part of the procession then led off in
the following order:
“President’s Mounted Guard,’ —Washington.
Capt. Peck.
“Company U. S. Artillery, *’ from Fort McHenry.
Cant. French.
“Company U. S. Marines,” from Washington Bar
racks, about 2UO men including band.
“German Rides,” —from Baltimore.
Capt. ,
‘ Lancaster FenoiWes, —Lancaster, Pa.
John 11. Duchman, Captain,
Accompanied by a line military band, led by George
Ellinger.
“Willard Guard,” of Auburn N. Y.
J. A. Dodge Captain.
Accompanied by the Rochester Cornet Band.
“Charlestown City Guard,” Charlestown, Mass.
Win. W. Peirce, Captain.
Accompanied by the Salem Brass Band, P. S. Gil
more, Leader.
“Cumberland Continentals,” Cumberland, Md.
Charles B. Thurston, Captain.
Accompanied by the Regimental Baud.
Colonel Joseph H. Tucker, and staff of the sth Regi
ment, Maryland Malitia.
“Allegany Guards,” of Cumberland, Md.
Captaiu James M. Scjiley.
Accompanied by a Band of Music.
‘ Burgess Corps,” of Albany, New York.
Captain B. R. Spelman.
Accompanied by Doddsworth’s New York Band.
“Montgomery Guards, ’ of Richmond, Va.
Captain Moore.
“Young Guard,” of Richmond, Va.
Captain J. A. Richardson.
“Alexandria Rifles,” of Alexandria, A'
Captain Herbert.
Mount Vernon Guards.” Alexandria Va
Captain I)e Vaughn.
f ‘Law Greys, ’ of Baltimore City,
Captain Bowers.
“Light Infantry,” Washington, D. C\.
Captain Davis.
“National Greys,” Washington, I). G\,
Captain Towers.
“German Yeagers, ’ Washiegton, D. C.,
Captain Schwarzman.
“Montgomery Guards,” Washington, D. C.,
Cap'ain Key.
“Boone Rifles,” Washington, D. C ,
Captain Bright.
“National Guards,” Washington, D. C ,
Captain Tait.
“Highlanders,” Washington, D. C.,
Captain Watt.
Marion Rifles,” Washington, D. C .
Captain Shekel!.
“American Rifles,” Washington, D. C.,
Captain Knight.
“Portsmouth Rifles,” Portsmouth, Va.,
Captain Richardson.
Following the military came a large staging, from
the centre of which was an immense flag stall rising
about forty feet, from which floated a beautiful
American flag. The base of the staging on its four
sides bore paintings representing Civilization, Com
merce, Manufactures, and the Arts, beautifully
wreathed with evergreens, and bearing inscriptions
appropriate to Union, Peace, and Prosperity. It
was draw n by eight horses, each led by a groom
dressed in the costume of an American 6ailor.
At the base of the pole stood a young girl, dressed
as the Goddess of Liberty, making quite an appro
priate picture.
In an open barouche, drawn by six white horses,
after the nag and device above described, came
The President of the United States with the Presi
dent elect and suite; with marshals on
their left; and the marshal of the
United States for the District
of Columbia and his depu
ties on their right.
A rigged miniature ship on wheels, about twenty
feet long, followed the President and his suite. In
the rigging were about a dozen boys drees d as sai
lors, and waving flags, which attracted great atten
tion. This ship was built by some of the shipwrights
at the Washington Navy Yard, under the supervi
sion of Capt. John Rainbow, mastei carpenter, and
was quite creditable to their tasie and patriotism,
and emblematic of national unity aud power.
The procession then continued in the following or
der :
The committee of Arrangements of the Senate.
The Jackson Democratic Association.
The Judiciary.
The Clergy.
Foreign Ministers.
The Corps Diplomatique.
Members elect, members aud ex-members of Con
gress and ex-members of the Cabinet.
Governors aud ex Governors of States aud Territo
ries, and members of thetLegislature of the same.
Oflicers of the army, navy, marine corps and militia.
Officers and soldiers of the Revolution, of the war
of 1812, and of subsequent periods.
The Corporate Authorities cf \\ ashington .and
Georgetown.
All organized civil authorities.
Professors, schoolmasters and students within the
District of Columbia.
Citizens of the District and of States and Territories. J
The Keystone Club of Philadelphia
Georgetown Democratic Association.
Washington Sixth Ward Association.
Eighth Ward Club of Baltimore, with Band.
Twelfth Ward Club of Philadelphia, with Band.
Young Men’s Democratic Association of San Fran
cisco, numbering 112, accompanied by the
Independent Blues Baud, of Haiti
more, Captain Holland.
Howard Fire Company ot New York.
Northern Liberty Fire Company, of Washington.
The millitary ascembied at the City Hall. and.
after forming into line, proceeded to 15tli street
where the civic part of the procession joined them.
The line then proceeded down the avenue, and halt
ed at Willards* Hotel, where Mr. Buchanan was
escorted to his carriage by the Keystone Club and
the legal oflicers of the District, amid loud huzzas,
millitary salutes and the roar of artillery. The col
umn then took up the line of march for the capitol.
The reporter, from a lofty position, (the roof of
Brown s Hotel) had a bird’s eye view of the whole 1
scene from the Executive mansion to the Capitol. 1
Below, and long before the procession reached this
point, every available place was crowded with a
dense mass of human beings. Au immense moving
crowd filled the sidewalks from point to point, in 1
the windows of all buildings fronting the avenue,
tier upon tier of heads appeared ; the balconies
were thronged with female beauty, who when the 1
procession passed signified their enthusiasm by
waving handkerchiefs held in lianas white and deli- 1
cate as the first snow flakes of winter, and the roofs
presented a dense mass of the “Lords of Creation.”
Even the ndge pole of the moss covered and dilapi- :
dated market-house, was thickly bestrided ~bv ad
venturous urchins
In the immediate vicinity of the hotel some ad
ventitious gentleman, endeavored to reach the top
of a chimney, but that structure being of an ancient
date, gave way and buried the aspirant in dingy
bricks and mortar, arousing a score or so of pigeons
from their refuge in the caves of a contiguous build
ing.
As the column proceeded down, the greateet ex
citement prevailed, and loud hurrahs greeted it at
prominent points. The number of persons on the
sidewalks were compelled, from want of space, to
extend far into the thoroughfare, making it necessa
ry for the Marshals to be on the alert to prevent ac
cent to the spectators.
line was nineteen minutes in passing any
given point It is estimated that the military, in
cluding the several bands, amounted to about
2,000.
ARRIVAL AT THL CAPITOL.
TLe head of tho procession having reached the
Capitol, the column under order halted, when the
military opened ranks, face inwards, and presented
anna. 'The carriage containing the President elect
; n: ifS«) UP t"
~ . V -u! t ivinuis. At Ibis
L’r ••mlauce, and '"received Mr. as be
alighted from the carriage. Accompanied by Pre
?i<Jeut Pitrce, the VioePw«dent ded, a
merons at temionce of the Marshals iffifl military cm
cuT3 who had participated in the the
President wae then conducted along the covered
way to the north entrance to the Senate wing of
the Capital, find thence into the Vice President a
THE sc EXE WITHIN THE CAPITOL.
The interior of the Senate Chamber at 11 o’clock
presented a muet imposing scene. The galleries
w ere thronged with ladies and the circular gallery
filled *o overflow long before the gathering ot gen
tlemen privileged to occupy the seats on the floor
of the chamber. The bank of female faces peering
over the circular gallery presented an attractive
scene Tb* chamber ir, the meantime was filling
fast with Senators. Ex-Senators and members eftthe
other House, when the hdur of 11 haying arrived, a
loud rap was heard, and the ceremonies oi the day
commenced by a very earnest and appropriate
prayer from the chaplain. ,
The Diplomatic Corps was next announced ana
presenter in their outre the usual imposing specta
cle created by so numerous a body ot line looking
men arrayed in that most gorgeous co tuine which
European usage has assigned to these Representa
tives of National Sovereignties. They took, their
seats on the left of the chair, their brilliancy appear
ing in fine contrast with the dark robe* and grave
far es of the Judicial body seated opposite them.
Mr. Bright, the President pro tem. ol the Senate,
havsng retired, was seen re-entering the t hamlx-t
in company with the Vice-President elect, the lion.
John C. Breckinridge, who looked in tine healtn and
spirits. The future presiding officer of tne Senate
then took the vacant seat of uis predecessor, w ben
the oath ot « ihce was adininieifei ed to him by Mr.
Bright. „
The Chamber sinking into profound stillness, Mi.
Breckinridge rose and addressed the Senate with
great calmness and dignity, in a few very appropri
ate remark.?, declaring his intention as presiding olu
oer of the Senate to perform the duties with strict
neutrality.
At 12 o'clock the members of the late Executive
Cabinet appeared, Mr. Marey leading the way, and
occupied the places assigned them on the left of the
Vice President.
All things being now in readiness for the appear
ance* of *Jicoresident elect, the approach of the pro
cession was announced, and Mr. Buchanan soon en
tered, accompanied by President Pierce, who took
the seals prepared for them, when the line was form
ed to proceed to the Eaetern portico to conclude the
imposing ceremonials of the inauguration.
THE SCENE ON THE EASTERN PORTICO.
After remaining a short time in the Senate Cham
ber, the assembly proceeded to the Eastern Portico,
where the formal ceremonies of the inauguration
were to take place, in the following order :
The Marshal of the District of Columbia.
The Supreme Court of the United States.
The Sergeant-at-Anns of the Senate.
The Committee of Arrangements.
The President of the United States and the Presi
dent elect.
The Vice-President and the Secretary of the
Senate.
The members of the Senate.
The Diplomatic Corps.
Heads of Departments, Governors of States and
Territories , the Mayors of Washington and George
town.
On reaching the front of the portico the President
elect was conducted to the seat provided lor him,
immediately on the outer front of the and
in full view of the immense concourse of people who
thronged the vast area in front His appearance
was greeted by loud and prolonged cheering.
The ex-president and the Committee of Arrange
ments occupied a position in rear of the President
elect. Next in the rear of these, the Chief Justice
and the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court oc •
copied the seats on the left; and the Vice-President,
Secretary, and members of the Senate, those on the
right. The Diplomatic Corps occupied the seats
next in rear of the Supreme Court: Heads of De
partments, Governors and ex Governors of Stales
and Territories, and ex members of the Senate, ex
members and members elect ofthe House of Repre
sentatives were disposed in the rear of the members
ofthe Senate.
In the rear of all these, there was a miscellaneous
gathering of other persons who had succeeded in
gaining admission, and scattered through the whole
were a number of ladies whose brilliant attire gave
relief and variance to the scene. The Diplomatic
Corps were also specially distinguishable by the
showy uniforms and court costumes in which many
of them appeared. The scene on the portico as it
presented itself to those below, was an interesting
one, and it 3 effect was heightened by the general
interest with which the opening of the ceremonies
was awaited. Whilst the arrangements on the
portico were being completed, the Marine band,
from a position in the rear of the assemblage per
formed several national airs in admirable style.
Delivery ol' the Inaugural Address.
All being in readiness, the President elect, rising,
read his Inaugural Address, as follows :
Fellow-Citizens : .1 appear before you this day to
take the solemn oath “ that I will faithfully execute
the office of President of the United States, and
Will, to the best of iny ability,- preserve, protect, and
defend the constitution of the United States. 1
In entering upon this great office, I must humbly
invoke the God of our fathers for wisdom and firm
ness to execute its high and responsible duties in
such a manner as to restore harmony and ancient
friendship among the people of the several States,
and to preserve our free institutions throughout
many generations. Convinced I owe my election
to the inherent love for the constitution and the
Union which still animates the heart of the Ameri
can people, let me earnestly ask their powerful sup
port in sustaining all just measures calculated to
perpetuate these, the richest political blessings
which Heaven has ever bestowed upon any nation.
Having determined not to become a candidate for
re-election, i shall have no motive to influence iny
conduct in administering the government except
the desire ably and faithfully to serve my country,
and to live iu the grateful memory of my country
men.
We have recently passed through a Presidential
contest in which the passions of our fellow-citizens
were excited to the highest degree by questions of
deep and vital importance; but when the people
proclaimed their will, the tempest at once subsided,
and ail was ealin.
The voice of the majority, speaking iu the man
ner described by the constitution, was heard, and
instant submission followed. Our own country
could alone have exhibited so grand and striking
a spectacle of the capacity of man for self-govern
ment.
What a happy conception, then, was It for Con
gress to apply this simple rule—that the will of the
majority,, shall govern—to the settlement of the
question of domestic slavery in the Territories !
Congress is neither “to legislate slavery into any
Territory or State nor to exclude it therefrom \ but
to leave the people thereof perfectly free to form and
regulate their domestic institutions in (heir own
way, subject only to the constitution of the United
States.” As a natural consequence, Congress has,
also, prescribed that when the Territory of Kansas
shall be admitted as a State, it “shall be received in
to the Union, with or without slavery, as their con
stitution may prescribe at the time of their admis
sion.”
A different opinion ba9 arisen in regard to the
point of time when the people of a Territory shall
decide the question for themselves.
This is, happily, a matter of but little practical
importance. Besides, it is a judicial question which
legitimately belongs to the Supreme Court of the
United States, before whom it is now pending, and
will, it is understood, be speedily and finally settled.
To their decision, in common with all good citizens,
I shall cheerfully submit, whatever this may be,
though it has ever been my individual opinion that,
under the Nebraska-Kansas act the appropriate
period will be when the number of actual residents
in the Territory shall justify the formation of a con
stitution with a view to its admission as a State into
the Union. But be this as it may, it is the impera
tive and indispensable duty of the government of
the United States to secure to every resident inhabi
tant the free and independent expression of his
opinion by his vote. This sacred right of each indi
vidual must lie preserved. That being accom
plished, nothing can be fairer than to leave tbepe>
pie of a Territory, free from all foreign interference
to decide their own destiny for themselves, subject
only to the constitution of the United States.”
The whole territorial question being then settled
upon the principle of popular sovereignty—a prin
ciple as ancient as free government itself—every
thing of a practical nature has been decided. No
other question remains for adjustment; because all
agree that, under the constitution, slavery in the
Spates is beyond the reach of any human power, ex
cept that of the respective States themselves where
in it exists. May we not, then, hope that the long
agitation of this subject is approaching its end, ana
that the geographical parties to which it has given
birth, so dreaded by the Father of his Country, will
speedily become extinct! Most happy will it be for
the country when the public mind snail be diverted
from this question to others of more pressing and
practical importance. Throughout the whole pro
gress of this agitation, which has scarcely known
any intermission f-<r more than twenty years, whilst
it has been productive ot no positive good to any
human being, it has been the prolific source of great
evils to the master, to the slave, and to the whole
country. It has alienated and estranged the peo
ple of the sister States from each other, and has even
seriously endangered the very existence of the
Union.
Nor has the danger yet entirely ceased. Under |
our system there is a remedy for all mere political
evils in the sound sense and sober judgment of the
people. Time is a great corrective. Political sub
jects which but a few yeais ago excited and exaspe
rated the public mina have passed away and are
now nearly forgotten. But this question of domes
tic slavery is of far graver importance than any mere
political question, because, should the agitation con
tinue, it may eventually endanger the personal safe
ty of a large portion of our countrymen where the
institution exists. In that event no -form of govern
merit, however admirable in itself, and however pro
ductive of material benefits, can compensate for the
loss of peace and domestic security around the fami
ly altar. Let every Union-loving man therefore ex
ert liis best influence to suppress this agitation,
which, since the recent legislation of Congress, is
without any legitimate object.
It is an evil omen of the times that men have un
dertaken to calculate the mere material value of the
Union. Reasoned estimates have been presented
of the pecuniary profits and local advantages which
would rt suit to different States aud sections from its
dissolution, and of the comparative injuries which
such an event would inflict on other States and sec
tions. Even descending to this low aud narrow
view of the mighty questions, all such calculations
are at fault. The bare reference to a single con
sideration will be conclusive on this point. We at
present enjoy a free trade throughout our extensive
and expanding country, such as the world never
witnessed. This trade is conducted on railroads
and canals—on noble rivers and arms of the sea—
which bind together the North and the South, the
East and the Weft of our confederacy. Annihi
late this trade, arrest its free progress by the geo
graphical lines of jealous aud hostile States, and you
destroy the prosperity and onward march of the
whole'and every part, and involve all in one com
mon ruin. But such considerations, important as
they are in themselves, sink into insignificance when
we reflect on the terrific evils which would result
from disunion to every portion of the confederacy
—to the North not more than to the South, to the
East not more than to the West. These I shall not
attempt to portray, because I feel an humble confi
dence that the kind Providence which inspired our
lathers with wisdom to frame the most perfect form
of government and Union ever devised by man
will not suffer it to perish until it shall have been
peacefully instrumental, by its example, in the ex
tension of civil and religious liberty throughout the
world.
Next in importance to the maintenance ofthe con
stitution and the Union is the duty of preserving the
government free from the taint, or even the suspi
cion, of corruption. Public virtue is the vital spirit
of republics: and history proves that when this has
decayed, and the love of money, has usurped its
place, although the forms of free government may
remain for a season, the substance has departed
forever.
Oar present financial condition is without a par
allel in history. No natiou has ever before been
embarrassed from fcoo large a surplus in its treasury.
This almost necessarily gives birth to extravagant
egislation. It produces wild schemes of expendi
ture. and begets a race of speculators and jobbers,
whose ingenuity is exerted in contriving and pro
moting expedients to obtain public money. The
purity of official agents, whether rightfully or wrong
fully, is suspected, and the character of the govern
ment suffers in the estimation of the people. This
is in itself a very great evil.
The natural mode of relief from this embarrass
ment is to appropriate the suiplus in the treasury to
great national objects, for which a clear warrant can
be issued in the constitution. Among these I might
mention the extinguishment of the public debt, a
reasonable increase of the navy, which is at present
inadequate to the protection of our vast tonnage
afloat, now greater than that of any other nation,
as well as to the defence of our extended seacoast.
It is beyond all question the true principle that no
more revenue ought to be collected from the people
than the amount necessary to defray the expenses
of a wise, economical and efficient administration of
the government. To reaah this point it was aeaes
sary to resort to a modification of the tariff, and this
has. I trust, been aocmpiished in such a manner as
to do as little injury at may have been practicable
to our domestic manufactures, especially those ne
cessary to the defence of the country. Any discrimi
nation against a particular branch, for the'pur pose of
benefiting favored corporations, individuals, or in
terests.^would have been unfast to the rest of the com
jumrity, and ir.c »nsi?tep\ with that spirit of fairness
tfinl equality which *ought to govern iu the adjust
m«>nt of a revenue t* riff.
Hut the squande ring of the public money sinks
into comparative as & temptation to
corruption when compared with the squandering of
the public lands.
No nation m the tide of time has ever been bless
ed with so rich, and noble inheritance as we enjoy
in the public hands. In administering thia impor
tant trust, whilst it may be wise to grant portions of
them for the improvement of the remainder, yet we
should never forget that it is our cardinal policy to
reserve these lands as much as may for actual
settlers,, and this at moderate prices. We shall thus
not only best promote the prosperity of the new
States and Territories by furnishing them a hardy
and independent race of honest and industrious citi
zens. bur shall secure hosn.es for our children and
our children s children, as well as for those exiles
from foreign shores who may seek in this country to
improve their condition, and to enjoy the blessings
of civil and religious liberty. Such emigrant 4 have
done much to promote the growth and prosperity of
the country. They have proved faithful both in
peace and in war. Alter becoming citizens, they
are entitled, under the constitution and laws to be
placed on a perfect equality with the native-born
citizens ; and iu this character should ever be kind
ly recognized.
The federal constitution is a grant from the States
to Congress of certain specific powers ; and the
question whether this grant shouia be liberally or
ttrictiy construed, has, more or less, divided politi
cal parties from the beginning. Without entering
iuto the argument, I desire lo state, at the com
mencement of roy administration, that long expe
rience and observation has convinced me that a
strict construction of the powers of the government
is only the true, as well as the only safe theory of the
constitution. \Y henever, in our past history, doubtful
powers have been exercised by Congress, these
have never failed to produce injurious aud unhap
py consequences. Many such instances might be
added, if this were the proper occasion. Neither is
it necessary for the public service to strain the lan
guage of the constitution ; because all the great
and useful powers required for a successful admin
istration oi the government, both in peace aud in
war, have been granted either in express terms or
by the plainest implication.
While deeply convinced of these truths, I yet con
sider it clear that, under the war-making power.
Congress may appropriate money towards the con
struction of a military road, when this is absolutely
necessary for the defence of any State or Territory
of the Union against foreign invasion. Under the
constitution Congress has power “to declare war,”
“to raise and support armies“to provide and
maintain a navy and to call forth the militia to
to “repeal invasion.” Thus endowed in an ample
manner with the war making power, the correspon
ding duty is required that “the United States shall
protect each of them [the States] against invasion.”
Now, how is it possible to aftora this protection
to California and our Pacific possessions except by
means of a military road through the Territory of the
United States, over which men and munitions of i
war may be speedily transported from the Atlantie
States to meet and repel the invader T In the event
of a war with a naval power much stronger than our
own, we should then have no other available access
to the Pacific coast; because such a power would
instantly close the route across the Isthmus of Cen
tral America. It is impossible to conceive that
whilst the Constitution has expressly required Con
gress to defend all the States, it should yet deny to
them, by any fair construction, the only possible
means by which one of these States can be defend
ed. Besides, the government, ever since its origin,
has been in the constant practice of constructing
military roads.
It might also be wise to consider whether the love
for the Union which now animates our fellow citi
zens on the Pacific coa» j t may not be impaired by
our neglect or refusal to provide for them, iu their
remote aud isolated condition, the only means by
which the power of the States on this side of the
Rocky Mountains can reach them in sufficient time
to protect them against invasion.
I forbear for the present, from exprestftng an opin
ion as to the wisest aud most economical mode in
which the gonernment can lend ita aid iu accom
p isliing this great and necessary work. I believe
that many of the difficulties iu the way which now
appear formidable will in a great degree vanish as
soon as the nearest and best route shall have been
satisfactorily ascertained. It may be right that on
this occasion I should make some brief remarks in
regard to our rights and duties as a member of the
great family of nations. Iu our intercourse with
them there are eome plain principles approved by
our own experience, from which we should never
depart.
We ought to cultivate peace, commerce and
friendship with all nations, and this not merely as
the best means of promoting our own material inte
rests, but in a spirit of Christian benevolence to
wards our fellow man, wherever their lot may be
cast. Our diplomacy should be direct and frank,
neither seeking to obtain more nor accepting less
than our due. We ought to cherish a sacred regard
for the independence of all nations, and never at
tempt to interfere in the domestic concerns of .».y,
unless they shall be imperatively required by the
great law of self-preservation. To avoid entangling
alliances has been a maxim of our policy ever since
the days of Washington, and its wisdom no one will
attempt to dispute.
In shoit, we ought to do justice in a kindly spirit
to all nations and require justice from them in re
turn. It is our glory, that whilst other nations have
extended their dominions by the sword, we have
never acquired any territory except by fair purchase
or, as in the case of Texas, uy the voluntary deter
mination of a brave, kindred and independent peo
ple, to blend their destinies with our own. Even
our acquisitions from Mexico form no exception.—
Unwilling to take advantage of the fortune of war
against a sister republic, we purchased these pos
sessions under the treaty of peace for a sum which
was considered at the time a fair equivalent.
Our past history forbids that we shall in the futuro ne
quiro Territory, unless it be sanctioned by the laws of
justice and honor. Acting on this principle, no nation
will have a right to interfere or to complain if, in the pro
gress of events, we shall still further extend our posses
sions.
Hitherto, in all our acquisitions, the people, under the
protection of the Ame rican flag, have enjoyed civil and
religious liberty aw well as equal and just laws; and have
been contented, prosperous and happy. Their trade
with the rest of the world has rapidly increased, and
thus every commercial nati<>n£as shared largely in their
successful progress.
I shall now proceed to take the oaih preseribedb
Constitution, whilst humbly invoking the blessing ofDi.
vine Providence on this great Republic.
J AMIS BI’CHANAIf.
The reading of the address occupied twenty-five
minutes. Its delivery was earnest and ei; phatie,
and though but few of his words rea ; ; nirther
than to the nearest circle of the mull by which
he was surrounded, yet the w.» ,naes evinced
their interest by spontaneous; a stsof applause
whenever a momentary pause suggested ita applica
bility.
The President elect would not permit the copy of
his Inaugural to go out of his possession until after
its delivery, aud the feature of previous inaugura
tions at which the newsboys screamed about the city,
selling copies of the address as soon as it was de
livered, was omitted. It was, however, put in typo
immediately after the ceremonies were concluded,
and subsequently sent by telegraph to all the prin
cipal cities of the Union.
ADMINISTRATION OF THF. OATH OF OFFl«B.
On concluding his address the President elect
turned towards Chief Justice Taney, who advanced
and extending the Bible toward Mr. Buchanan, ad
ministered the oath of office in the terms presented
by the Constitution as follows :
“ 1 do Solemly Swear that I will Faithfully Rtc
ccule the Office of President of the United States ,
and will to the Best of my ability Preserve , Protect
and Defend the Constitution of the. United States .”
During the taking of this solemn attestation the
deepest interest was manifested, and the multitude
were stilled into the most earnest attention. When
it was concluded, and those upon the platform fol
lowed the Chief Justice in congratulating the Pre
sident elect upon his accession to office, the specta
tors joined in an enthusiastic acclaim of applause,
whilst the swelling music of half a dozen bands,
and the roar of cannon announced that the impor
tant ceremony was completed, and James Buchanan
duly inaugurated as the fifteenth President of the
United States.
After receiving the congratulations of those sur
rounding him, the President returned to the Senate
Chamber, and was subsequently conducted by
the Senate Committee to the Presidential Mansion.
The military immediately after re-formed and
marched up Pennsylvania Avenue to the place of
dismissal, after which the several oompaniee pro
ceeded to their several quarters.
SCENES AND INCIDENTS.
The distinguished feature of the Inauguration, giv
ing to its most imposing aspect, was the immense
number of people it brought together. The specta
tors were the great spectacle of the occasion.—
Along the avenue, in the houses, and from every
point where a view of any part of the proceedings
was to be obtained they thronged in thousands.—
The multitude was everywhere and seemed übiqui
tous, so fully did it occupy all the prominent parts of
the city. In and around the capitol at the time the
ceremonies on the Eastern Portico were in progress,
there was assembled from thirty to fifty thousand
people. The wide area in front of the Portico was
densely crowded, and the throng extended, though
less compactly gathered, as far back into the capitol
grounds as Greenough’s statute of Washington.—
The roof of the capitol, the windows and facades of
the new wings, aud the roofs aud windows of the
buildings commanding a view of the scene were all
thickly occupied. The gathering of such an im
me use mass gave an effective grandeur to the scene,
which was increased by the general decorum ob
served aud the very evident interest with which
each step of the ceremonies were watehed.
The arrangements around the Capitol were ex
cellently designed and executed. In the area in
front of the portico a substantial platform, three
feet high, affording standing room for some twenty
thousand people, was erected. It afforded an ex
cellent view of the ceremonies, and here the great
bulk of the spectators were congregated. In Ike
rear of this platform two enterprising dagueijeotyp
ists had high stands erected, upon which their oper
ating apparatus was stationed for the purpose of tak
ing views ofthe seene at the moment the oath was
administered. This intention was, however, pro
bably marred by the uncourteous closing in of those
on the portico around the President, by which he
was hidden from the gaze of the mass below at this
interesting moment.
The military display was ;!;*■ finest that has ever
given brilliancy to the inauguration eeremoonies.
The splendid uniforms and soldierly deportment of
ofthe visiting companies attracted general attention
and their movements throughout the day were at
tended by throngs of admiring spectators. The full
and inaguificentoands by which they were accom
panied also came in for a large share of the popular
applause. 1 lodsworth’s baud, of New York, the
Salem Brass band, the Marine band, of W aslnng
ton. and the independent BlHes’ baud, of Baltimore,
were special favorites, and their admirable music
kept in their neighborhood large assemblages of gra
tified listeners.
CLOSING SCENES IN CONGRESS.
Before the inauguration ceremonies commenced
the galleries of both Houses of Congress were
crowded with spectators. The Senate adjourned
early, and whilst in session maintained its usual
dignified decorum. In the House the case was wide
ly different. A perfect legislative row prevailed
there from nine o'clock to twelve, -nd the continued
exertions of the Speaker were only successful in ob
taining a momentary hill in the storm, stentorian
lungs were the qualification most in request, ana
those best able to autbeliow their colleagues were
alone successful in obtaining an opportunity to press
their projects upon the House. Ot the character of
the legislation passed during these last hours of the
session we fear not much good can be said. It was.
however, chiefly of an unimportant character.
THE WEATHER, AC.
The weather throughout the day was remarkably
fine, and no untoward incident occurred to mar the
harmony of the occasion ; but many pockets were
relieved of “surplus revenue” without the aid of
Congressional deliberations, and some operators fell
into the hands of the police for awkward attempts
to “remove the deposits.” In the evening some dis
order prevailed, and several riotous conflicts occur
red on the Avenue.
THE IN ACGC RAT ION BALL.
The grand Inauguration Ball at Judiciary Square
presented a scene of regal magnificence never be
fore equalled in the metropolis, for the reason that
on no similar occasion heretofore has the arrange
ments been so extensive, or the ball room so spa
cious and well calculated for the display of beautiful
women in rich and gorgeous apparel, studded with
jewels and gems, which usually distinguish such an
occasion. The room is nearly three hundred feet in
length, by about ninety feet in breadth, lighted
through its whole length by large and massive
chandeliers, and jets of light extending across the
hall. The walls on either side and at the end are
formed of deeply colored bangings of red, white,
blue and gold, whilst the ceiling is of pure white,
thickly studded with gilt stars, which reflected the
gas lights and produced a most brilliant effect, the
scene from the head of the broad flight of stairs
leading from the Courthouse, one wing of which
forms the entrance, was pronounced by all present
as the most imposing ever witnessed.
At the upper end of the hail a canopy was erected
for the use of President Buchanan, v ice President
Breckinridge, and ex-President Pierce, with seats
arranged for other official dignitaries. On the side
room, about the centre, was a large balcony orches
tra, accommodating a cotillion hand of *y-three
performers, comprising the military band of the
Navy Yard, and about twenty of Lanehardt s and
Vollandt's Bands of Baltimore, from which, at nine
o’clock, a national air called the company to order
for a grand promenade, presenting a moving scene
of great brilliancy. ....
i At 9$ o'clock the approach of the President elect ana
suite was announced, which caused a great com mo
tion throughout the ball, when the company ranged
in lines, aud opened au avenue for their passage to
the positions assigned them at the upper end of the
hall. As soon as they appeared at the head of the
broad flight of stairs leading to the tiopr of the ball
room, the band struck up “Hail Columbia,” and
i amid the waving of handkerchiefs, and considerable
cheering, the distinguished party descended to the
floor, and passed up through a fine of ladies repre
senting the youth and beauty of nearly overy State
in the Union.
So soon as the commotion had subsided, the ball
was opened, and dancing commenced with much
zest, though the immense crowd on the floor render
ed thia rather a difficult operation, the seta being so
crowded that magnificence of dress aud grace of
movement was in a measure lost sight of. There
appeared to be among the ladies a very general ef
fort to eclipse each other in the display of jewelry,
aud the magnificence and costliness of their apparel,
and the palm of beauty, in form, feature ami car
riage, was contested by about a dozen others with
great spirit The style of beauty was, however, so
varied that all had their admirers, though for stately
and commanding appearance, blended with a fine
countenance, good expression, and brilliant com
plexion, the lauy of Senator Douglas, was evident
ly the star of the evening. Her fine stature gave her
the advantage over all competitors, as she could be
easily discerned in any part of the room, whilst oth
ers were partially lost in the throng.
The supper room extending the whole length of
the ball loom, was thrown open at 12 o’clock, where
a sumptuous repast was served. The opening of
the supper room tended to relieve the crowd on the
floor, as many lingered there long after the dancing
had been resumed. The President and his suite,
with ex-President Pierce, retired shortly after mid
night, which also tended to thin the concourse, when
the dancing commenced in good earnest, and
was doubtless continued up to a late hour this
morning.
The niece of President Buchanan, Miss Lane,
attracted much attention, aud was evidently the
favorite of the evening. She possesses a fine pleas
ant countenance, bearing tne impress of inteili
fence, with pleasing manners and excellent ad
ress. She is to preside at tho White House dur
ing the next four years, and will doubtless do the
honors with all the grace and ease that distin
guished her at Wheatland, and at the Ministerial
Residence at the Court of St. James.
MILITARY PRESENTATION.
A rich and beautiful testimonial was presented
to the Charlestown (Mass.) City Guards, Captain
W. W. Pierce, previous to the forming ot the
various corps in line of march. It was a gold
medal, containing the following embellishments and
inscriptions.
On the face—A has relief of George Washington,
on a plain back ground, with a heavy chased border,
On the reverse, these words: “Presented to the
Charlestown City Guards, by Sons of New England,
Washington, D. C., March 4,1857.
The medel is of the value of about sixty dollars, but
its greatest value is from the associations with
which it is connected, the manner in which it was got
up, and the names of the parties who contributed
the necessary amount for its procurement. Presi
dent Pierce headed the list of contributors, and
among them were Hon. Caleb Cushing, Hon. N. P.
Banks, Jr., W. S. King, Assistant Post Master Gen
eral Hon. Clias. T. James, Hon. Linus B. Coniine,
Hon. Timothy Davis, Hon. John Appleton, J. L.
Hayes, Esq., Sidney Webster, Esq., Robert Earn
ham, Esq., W. 13. Todd, Esq., Charles Lanman,
Esq., and others. Tho presentation was made by
Maj. Ben Perley Poore, who was tho originator of
the idea, aud was performed in the Major’s happiest
vein.
At the same time a beautiful gold penbil was pres
ented by the same parties to Mr. Gilmore, tbe lead
er ofthe Salem Brass Band,Yhicli accompanied the
Guards to Washington.
WEEKLY
& Sentinel
AUQXJSTA GA
WEDNESDAY MORNING, MARCH 11,1556.
TERMS.
That our subscribers may have no cause of com
plaint, we desire each and all of them to read care
fully the following Terms for subscription. Our
Terme are always in advance, and if a subscriber
keeps us out of the use of our money he shall pay
for it, If he gets the paper. Those who do net like
these terms, can pay their tills aud Btop their papers.
The terms win not be departed from to please any
one i
TIIE WEEKLY
CHRONICLE & SENTINEL
Is Published Every Weilnesdny
DOLLARS PER ANNUM
In advance.
IF NOT PAID WITHIN THREE MONTI IS,
THREE DOLLARS will, invariably, UK CHARGED.
To CLUBS or INDIVIDUALS sending us lien
Dollars, SIX copies of the paper will be sent for one
year, thus furnishing the paper at the rate of
SIX COPIES FOR TEN DOLLARS,
or a free copy to all who may procure us five sub
scribers, and forward us the money.
ty The iper will in no instance be sent at thiß
rate unless e $lO is paid strictly in advance.
Nor will pari of a Club be received. The whole
six must coi together.
D ..nth of Mr. Wm. Harper.
Is our melancholy duty to announce the
dea at four o’clock, P. M., Saturday, of Mr.
Wil l Harp* i , of the firm of J. &. W.
Harps * oldes I’rmin the sity, and among our
oldest citizens. Mr I .was a native of Irelamd, but
had been a residento Augusta for near half a cen
tury, during most of, ich time he has been netive
ly engaged business, and occupied a prominent
position as a merchant. He lias been in -feeble
health for years.
Mr. Peabody in Augusta.
Mr. George Peabodi, the distinguished Ameri
can citizen and London Banker, whojhas acquired a
world-wide fame, as well for his generous hospitality
as his noble philanthropy, spent the day in this city
yesterday. D uring his short sojourn, a number of
our-prominentoitizens, gratified that an opportunity
was afforded them to honor the man who has ren
dered his name illustrious, called upc n and paid
their respects to him. As might be expected, he
r -ceived them most cordially, and all caiue away de _
lig nted, not lees with the man, than hi» unostenta
tious manners and marked courtesy. He leaves
this morning on his way to New Orleans.
huprenie Court—lmportant Decision.
The decision of the Supreme Court of tlto United
States, in the celebrated Dred Scott case, was de
livered on Saturday, and wo have a telegraphic sy
nopsis of the arguments and conclusions, which will
he found in our oolumns to-day. Justices McLe-ah
and Curtis dissented from tho opinion aato the va
lidity of the Missouri Compromise. The following
important points are established by the decision :
First—That negroes, whether slaves or free, are
not citizens ofthe United States.
Second—Ttat the ordinance of 1787 had no inde
pendent Constitutional force or legal effect subse
quent to the adoption of the Constitution, and
Third—That the act commonly known as the Mis
souri Compromise, so far as it attempted to exclude
slavery from the northern part of the Louisiana ces
sion, was void and of no legal ejfett.
Boot Found.— The body of a man was found in
the Chattahoochee river, Eufaula, Ala., on Sunday
last. Papers found upon the person of deceased,
indicate that his name was Richard Mosedale a
civil engineer by profession, and thathe was making
his way to Tallahnssee, Fla., in search of employ
ment He is supposed to have fallen into the river
from a boat by accident.
Arrested and Brought Back.—George W.
Mokman, supposed to he concerned in the sudden
disappearance of Jas. Esterez from Columbus
has been arrested in New Orleans and brought back
to that city. He has been lodged in jail to await
examination. A negro man, belonging to a Italy in
Alabama, was arrested in company with him and
also brought back to Columbus.
Completion or the Tehuantepec Priilim!-
nart Road. —The N. O. Picayune contains let
ter dated Tehuantepec, Feb. (sth, announcing the
completion of the wagon and carriage road across
the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, and the first arrival of
vehicles at the Pacific terminus of the road, The
correspondent of the Picayune says;
The interest manifested throughout the whole
line of the route was very great, and the people from
the neighboring villages crowded to see the carri
ages—to them a novel sight, and the first that m*ost
of them had ever seen in their lives. On the ir
arrival at Tehuantepec the enthusiasm was it,'
tense ; the whole population turned out en masse tt>
weloome the pioneers engaged in the great under
taking of connecting, bv means of a transit road
the waters of the Broad Pacific with those ofthe’
CoatEacoalcos at the Suchil, the Atlantic, or I should
rather isay, the gulf terminus of the interoceanic
communication. Bonfires, martial music, the firing
of rockets and the roar of artillery announced in the
most unmistakable manner, the joy of the Tehuan
tepecanoson witnessing the accomplishment of their
so long deferred hopes, as well as, their complete
confidence in the bright and glorious future which
is soon to dawn upon them.
C. E. Grenville—Terrible Accident.—The
numerous friends of Mr. Grenville, in this city
will be pained to learn that he lias had his right arm
caught in the belting of his mill, in Chattanooga, and '
so terribly crashed that it will he rendered entirely
useless for life. Indeed, it is feared that amputa
tion may become necessary. We learn that hia
life was saved by his presence of mind.
Kansas Land Agenct. —lt affords us pleasure to
invite the attention of all those who desire to invest
in Kansas lands to the advertisement of Benjamin
Brantley, —“ Uncle ben,” as he was familiarly
known throughout Georgia while editor of the
Temperance Banner. All who know anything of
him, know him to be a man of high integrity.
Tornado.— A very severe tornado or “whirl
wind” passed over Augusta, Ky., on Friday week"
It eommenced about five miles southwest of Au
gusta, traveling in a northeast direction, destroying ■
everything it came in contact with as far as heard'
from. In Augusta the soene of destruction was
frightful, and crossing the river at that point, it con
tinned its devastating progress. It tore up the
trees, rained orchards, threw down stone and brick
buildings, demolished barns, overturned boats car
ried off teams, and in fact did all manner of damage
except sacrifice human life, which appears a marvel •
under the circumstances, as persons were in several
of the houses destroyed.
The Louisville Democrat says a duel between
two ladies is on the tapis in that city. A formal
challenge is known to have been passed and ac
cepted, though the weapons and distance have not
been named. As will be readily imagined a “ gen'
tieman 'is at the bottom of the quarrel. After all,
we don't know but the ladies have as much right to
make fools of themselves as the lords of ereatiou.
The Richmond Whig expresses its belief that there
is a well-planed and deliberate project on foot to ef
fect a Wise organization in as many bounties as
possible, so as to secure the return of Wise dele
gates to the next Legislature of Virginia, and,
through and by them, the election of Wise to the
United States Senate, in the place of Hunter.
Brunswick Railroad.— Public meetings have
been held within the past week in the several eoun
Lee >n the line of this road as surveyed to Thomas
▼ille, in which the eitiians generally have- pledged
themselves to comply with thair original obli gations
to aid in Ra completion
"i Jadjrr Brown.
Editor Chronicle jj* Sentinel:
Dear Sir : —lu alluding to the proceedings of
the Superior Court of Floyd county, at its late ses
sion at Rome, and particularly to a fine of fifteon
dollars, which Judge Brown (presiding in the Court
for Judge Hammond) imposed for the offence of
furnishing a slave with spirituous liquors, a recen*
issue of your extensively circulated journaj says:
“A judge who imposed a tine of ov\y fifteen do!-
lore for funiishiug a negro with liquor, should be
fined SSOO himself, and sent to jail for six months.
We suppose, however, that the Judges find it to
their account, to curry,favor with the rum-sellers.—
They want their votes aud influence at the elect
tion.'
The above did not fall under my eye unfit I saw
it to-day in your Weekly, of the 25th nit.
In this is implied, if not expressed, a charge of
I serious grade, when applied to a Judge iu the dis
charge of his official duties. Those who have wit
nessed Judge Brown's administration of the crimi
nal lau , It is thought, are not disposed to regard him
as too lenient, or inclined to wiuk at crime of any
grade, and particularly this! Where his judicial
character is known and understood, it is impossible
for such a charge to do him serious harm. For my.
self, I regard him—although young—as an able
Judge, and hope that his talents, energy and perse
verance, will in future raise him to a more extend,
ed field of useful service to the country. I have no
doubt but that your pleasure will be promoted by
the circulation 00-extending with the charge, the
explanation which, from my connection with the
Court os Prosecuting Attorney, I am prepared to
make.
In consideration, that the facts and circumstauces
attending the violation of the public laws,' are so
very difficult in the different cases that are brought
before the Courts, the policy of the Legislature clo
thing the Judges wjth a discretion in many tilings as
to the amount of punishment to be imposed, seems
to be a good and wise one. That part of the Pena 1
Code under which the penalty in question was im"
posed, does not give to the Judge the power to im
prison as a penalty for the first offence —and he can
not exceed fifty dollars fine, and may come as low
as tew dollar* (what ought to be done with the Le
gislature that passed the law?) For the second
conviction, he may imprison in the common jaib
not exceeding sixty days, and fine not exceeding
five hundred dollars.
In this case, the defendant, Jackson
plead guilty without the form of a trial. With a
view to inform the Court of the circumstances of
the case and the party, I called Col. Stewart, the
City Marshal, who stated that he thought the de"
fendautwas rather alow character, in the habitat
times of to some extent equalizing himself with
negroes and that he had suspected him of this prac
tice, and that on the occasion alluded to in the in
dictment, he saw him commit the offence.
Judge Wright, in behalf of the defendant, stated
that he knew and had known him for some time ;
defendant had been with and worked for him, that
he was a very poor, hard-working, industrious, and
he believed, in the main, a very honest man; that
he was a man of very simple understanding ; that
he believed he had ignorantly committedthe offence-
In part of which statement he was supported by
Col. C. 11. Smith; both stating further that he was
unable to pay any except a very small line.
Taking all which into consideration, and further, the
fact that he was not a vender of spirilous liquors, and
also that he had been imprisoned for a considerable
time in the common jail for want of bail. His Honor
passed a sentenoe that he pay a fine of fifteen dol
lars and all costa of the prosecution, including his
jail fees, and that he stand committed until all were
paid. If he had been a most troublesome and mis
chievous character, and, in addition, worth a mil
lion of dollars, all he could have imposed would have
been fifty dollars and the costs. And however
light fifteen aud the costs may have been to some
to him it was a heavy penalty; for, up to the
time I left the Court, on the evening of the ad
journment, he had not been able to pay out.
Very respectfully, your ob’tserv’t,
11. Fielder.
Newuan, Geo., March 6, 1867.
Remarks by the Editor.— With all due defe
rence to Mr. Fielder, we do not perceive that his
explanation relieves his friend Judge Brown, or
renders at all apparent any injustice in our com
ments upon the sentence. The offence is one of
very grave character —for not only do the rum
sellers destroy the health aud life of their victims,
but they corrupt tho morals aud destroy the property
of tho citizens, which it is the object of the law to
protect. Iu Uiis case there was no doubt as to the
guilt—it was confessed.
It is, however, attempted by Mr. Fielder to ex
cuse the light penalty on tho ground of the inability
of the defendant to pay—a very absurd position in
such oases. Mr. F. admits he could not, or had not
paid the fifteen dollars, when Court adjourned. True,
in this isolated case, fifteen dollars and costs may
keep him in jail as long as fifty dollars and costs.
But what would have been the difference in the
moral effect in the community, and especially upon
that worst of tlassct of citizens, those Rum-sellers,
who sell their vile mixtures to tho slaves ? A fine
•f fifty dollars would have had a ten-fold force to
protect the morals, health and lives of the negroes
and the property of the citizens. And for this ob'
ject every conviction in such case should be puuish
ed to the extent of the law. We do not, therefore,
abate a particle of our censure of the sentence. It
was not what it should have been—the well being
of society and the protection of the property of the
citizens, demand the enfercement of the law in such
•ases with the utmost rigor.
We know nothing of Judge Brown, or his ad
ministration. We have no prepossessions for or
prejudices against either, except those formed by
this decision, —(the soft-solder of Mr. Fielder, and
the stereotyped and disgusting commendations of
Grand Juries, pass with us only for what they are
worth,)—but we know that there is great remissness
in the administration of the law, or criminals of
every hue would notgo unwhipped of justice. We
regard it, therefore, a high and responsible duty of
the press to hold up the delinquents, whether they
be Judges, Solicitors, Juries, or Legislators; aud
we shall not hesitate to perform that duty.
Mariposa in Danobr.— The miners aud squat
ters on the Mariposa grant, held a meeting on the
sth of February. At the meeting, a notice to the
Mercer Mining Company was read, which was from
J. E. Clayton, agent for Col. John C. Fremont, de
manding possession in his name of the ltoduction
Works, erected by the company, as well as all of
the machinery attached to it, “said property being
all included in the bounds of the Mariposa grant.'’
liesolutious were adopted denying the authority to
itoeate the said grant within the Sierra Nevada
mountains, and asserting that the rights aßd claims
of the miners aud settlers are prior and paramount
to those of Coi. Fremont. The following are three
of the resolves:
Resolved, That in the event of John C. Fremont
his confederates, or subordinates, or any or either
of them, attempting to interfere with, molest or eject
any number, or even one miner, settler, or resident
upon said laud, we do hereby solemnly pledge our
selves to make common cause against him or them
for the plundering of one is that of all, and a blow
at one is an aim at each and all miners and settlers
upon said tract.
That a permanent and prinsipal committee con
sisting of miners and settlers, be appointed by this
meeting, who shall appoint a sub-committee of like
number for each mining’settlement in said location,
for the purpose of organizing the people, and to
more effectually oppose the aggressive, rapacious
claims of said Fremont, his confederates and subor
dinates. , ,
That we do hereby pledge ourselves to respond
promptly t<> any call, and to all orders of the prin
cipal committee, and to sustain and be faithful and
true to each other, under any and all circumstan
ces.
Terri nr.E jSxrLosioi*. — A most daring attempt
was made on Sunday night to destroy the wine,
liquor and tea store of Messrs. Macy &. Jenkins, No.
146 Fulton street, New York. The force of the ex
plosion was so great that the front doors and win
dows were shivered to atoms, the large shutters be
ing blown across the street and lodged against a pile
of brick. The iron shutters and door at the rear of
the store was burst open, and the bars which secured
them were wrenched off and thrown into the yard ;
yet, strange as it may seem, but very slight damage
was done to the goods in the store, neither the bot
tles on the shelves nor the stove pipe appeared to
have been displaced.
The object of the perpetrator of the act could not
have been plunder, as no articles are missed from
She store, everything being as lefton Saturday even
■iig-
Curious Discovert.- —The Central Texan
loams from a gentleman near Naviseto, that while
he was cutting down a tree near that place he made
a most remarkable discovery. He cut down a very
large cotton wood with a hollow in it, and an aper
ture from the outside some six feet above the
ground. Upon splitting open the tree, the hollow
was found to contain an Indian's skeleton, which
was perfect, not a bone missing. The conjecture is
that, at some time or other, the Indian got into this
hollow tree to make his escape from some enemy
or wild animal, and was unable to get out again, and
so perished. _
Productive —Lieutenant
fioger Jones, an officer on board the United States
steam frigate Merrimac, writing home to his family
from Barbadoes, under date of the 26th of Febru
ary, says, in speaking of the productiveness of the
soil, &c., that the Island is 21 miles long, by 14 wide,
produces annually 50,000 hogsheads of sugar, and
the land sells at S6OO per acre. It will be remem
bered that this Island was a rendezvous for the ne
groes stolen from Virginia in the late war with Great
Britain, by Sir Admiral Cockburn and his confed
erates. The lands of the Island have been culti
vated by those slaves and their descendants from
that time to the present day.
A Bio Swisdlz STOprxD.—The Senate, it wili
be seen strnck oat the Deficiency Bill, the House
item, appropriating $185,000 for books for members.
Probably a more corrupt “job” never was started
even in this House of Representatives—and the
Senate, in throwing it out, only did what was
honest.
U. S. Treasure. —The amount of money subject
to draft in the United States Treasury on the 23d
February, was $24,407,742 52, of which, $40,313 95
was at Richmond, Virginia , $5,454 68 at Norfolk,
Virginia ; $17,868 95 at Wilmington, North Caro
lina, and $3,135 69 at Nashville, Tenn.
Dispute aeobt the Spoils.— The Montgomery
Mail, of Wednesday evening, says, as we go to
press we are informed that Gus McGibony, in an
altercation about the reward, Ac., has just shot Mr.
Phillips, of New Orleans. The ball passed through
the forearm, without breaking the bone, and it is
not dangerous.
The Messenger, of yesterday, says McGibony vol
untary surrendered himself to Sheriff Bramc and
subsequently gave bonds for his appearance to an
swer at the next Court—an examination being
waived.
The proposition to enlarge to a considerable ex_
tent the Capitol grounds at Washington was agreed
to by both Houses previous to final adjournment—
The new grounds wil 1 cover 73 acres, instead of
33, as at present.
Cn*«<—>fr. Kuclinvmn—Sqnntier
“ As there ia very litttle doubt, remarks the Rich
mond Whig, uow that General Cass willgo into tho
Cabinet, the Abolition papers of the North are fe
licitating their readers upon a fact so consonant
with their wishes and so auspicious to their hopes.
The New York Times —a rabid Abolition sheet—
commences along article on the mbject wit It the
following language :> —‘■We are'to have Gen. Cass
for Secretary ot State. The HsiiTt ion is entirely
significant” And it then proceeds in-this hilarious
strain— ‘ He is the. father of the. Squatter Sovereign •
ttptheory y and unlike many who profess to accept
it, he believes it. lie holds that the territorial go
vernment, r epiotiontiug the people, has jhe .right fa
prohibit Slavery ; ami tilt* great mas 3 of the people
of the Northern States, without regard to parry- dis
tinction, agree tcith him." The ultra pro-slavery
men at the Sputli scout this doctrine, aud both -n
and out of Congress, havetidictilod without mer-”
ev. * * * lie [Cass] may now fairly claim that
his own appointment as Secretary of State inaugu
rates Squatter Sovereignty as the doctrine of th
new Executive /”
The New York Timr< is at fault in ascribing the
paternity of the Squatter Sovereignty doctrine to
Gen. Cass. Mr. Buchanan was the first io pro'
claim the doctrine, which Gen Cass acknowledged
in his celebrated Nicholson letter, and gave him
credit for it. It is not surprising, therefore, that
Mr. Buchanan should select him as his Premier. —
They are a unit upon this question at lqg&t, uuless
Mr. Buchanan has changed since he wrote Ids San j
ford letter.
The Times is equally in err r, in asserting that
“the ultra pro-slavery men of the South scout this
doctrine, and ridicule it both iu and out of Con
gress.” The Wiiig and American party have al
ways denounced the odious doctrine of squatter
sovereignty, aud time was when the Southern De
mocracy denounced it; but now, they cordially em
brace it and its acknowledged father. The most
zealous supporters of But haaN.vn iu the South, were
the men who, but a few years ago, denounced
squatte* sovereignty as “treason to the South.”—
liiis, however, surprises do intelligent man Who is
tamiliar with the men, or with the leaders of the
Democracy. They are for the spoils at any sacri
fice of principle whatever—and they do not hesitate
a moment to adopt to-day a principle which yes
terday they denounced as treason. Only satisfy
them that it promises to secure the spoils, and they
embrace it in a moment. Such is Democracy, anil
such the men who affect to be the exclusive friends
of the South aud her institutions. Well might Mr
Calhoun exclaim, “they are held together by the
cohesive properties of tho public plunder.”
Raising the Vessels at Sevastopol. —An ex
pedition from Philadelphia, says the correspondent
of the Baltimore American, is about to undertake
what the allied army of England and Franco could
not effect. It is making preparations to enter the
harbor of Sevastopol. The Russians, during tho
famous assault upon that city, sank iu the harbor
one hundred vessels, including fifteen line-cf-battte
ships, seven frigates, fifteen steamers, and ten brigs
of war. The maehiue v y of the steamers of war, be
fore being sank, was carefully covered with a pre
paration of tallow to prevent injury from the water.
neywere scuttled by boring three-inch augur holes
aar the waterline. Well, the contract for raising
this immense fleet of sunken vessels was awarded
to a company iu this city. The expedition will con
sist of two vessels, one of which leaves Philadelphia
on or about the first of April, and the second soon
after. The number of persons engaged to accom
pany it is about cue hundred aud fifty, and the
machinery to be employed is of colossal dimensions
The value of the property sunk is said to reach the
fabulous value of 1(15,000,000. Included in the con
tract are the six ships at Kertch. This contract is ft
great one, and an application is uow before the
Legislature to incorpoiate the Company. John
Tucker, Esq., Dr. Morris, S. Wickershatn, and Mr.
Presbury, of the Girard House, are the active
movers in the enterprise.
j Survey of the Okefenokee Swamp. —The
Souiherh Recorder learps by a letter from one of
the surveying party, that they have truly had n hard
time of it, being subjected at times to much suffer
ing and fatigue, exppsed to all kinds of weather, and
at one time, (while engaged in crossing the swamp)
3 almost entirely without provisions, their meals con
r sistiiig of a cracker and a cup of coffee—so great
was the hunger of some of the paity, that “wood
p peckers” were considered to them a “dainty dish.”
They were put, exposed to rain for four or live
days, and without tents ; being compelled at night
' to make beds of (pine boughs, as* the ground was
( so marshy that the water would rise over the tops
of their shoes wherever they stood. Our letter says
that they were two weeks in going throughthe
swamp, making not exceeding half ami lea day, as
they had to cut their way through briars, bramblets,
and all sorts of bushes—and they were two weeks
of great toU and exertion, as they would frequently
sink half thigh deep in mud and water which would
require all their strength to pull out. While engag
ed in exploring where the Suwanee River comes oyt
of the Swamp, they were compelled to wade up the
river a mile and a half and back, the bushes being
so impenetrable that riding wus out of (lie question.
They are now about half through with their survey,
having been engaged two months at it.
The Washington correspondent of the New York
News thus accounts for Charles Sumner’s recent
arrival at Washington : ‘'He has not been here
since the passage of the Compensation Act, tpid net
being able to get any pay nutil he came ow to draw
it, he wisely concluded that he ll%d better come on
and pocket the money. His absence being attribu
table to alleged sickness will not be deducted ; and
the result is, that this man who has grossly neglect
ed his legislative duties ever since last summer, will
draw about four thousand dollars for service he has
never performed.”
New Postal Treaty. —lt is stated that the new
postal convention between France and the United
States has been completed and signed. It reduces
the present postage about 50 per cent to France and
the countries with which she has postal arrange
ment. The Washington correspondent of the
Philadelphia American, says of it:
Havre and the traveling office from Paris to Ca
lais on the part of France and New York, Boston,
Philadelphia and San Francisco on the part of the
United States, are tire offices established for the
exchange of corrcspondonee, though others may be
created.
The convention provides for correspondence con
veyed by packets; tirst, between France and the
United States ; second, by United States packets
plying between the ports of the United Stales
and Great Britain; and third, by British pack
ets plying between the ports of Great Britain and
the United States.
France agrees to pay the transportation better.
England and France of all mails exchanged be- #
tween the French and United States post offices via.
England; the transit charges dtie on said mails, and
finally, the expenses of sea transportation due to
the same offices for mails exchanged between
French and United States offices by means of British
packets.
Our government agrees to pay the expenses ot
transportation of mails between the United States
and France despatched by American packets ply
ing between France and the United States ; and
also expenses of transportation of mails exchanged
between French and United States postoffices con
veyed by American packets plying between ports
of the United States and Great Britain.
The postage on letters weighing quarter of an
ounce is 15 cents to France, and at tin? same rate Ot
postage charged to Franco beyond her dominions.
The postage is doubled for every additional quar
ter of an ounce ; and it.is iinpoitant, therefore that
the commercial public should understand this fact,
and at once bring into use the thin paper which is
so common in European correspondence.
Alarming Intelligence from Washington.—
Old Buck, it is said, says the Petersburg Intelli
gence**, has declared that every office will be con
sidered and treated by him as vacant on the day of
his Inauguration! The presept incumbents, if this
be so, will be thrown into fits, we fear ; lor we can
not imagine anything more distressingly excruciating
to their nerves than such a declaration from head
quarters at this exceedingly delicate juncture, it is
even said, further, that the significant—this startling
—revelation of Old Buck’s is designed by him as noth
ing more nor less than a hint to the incumbents that
he will expect an immediate and a general resignation
on their part. What an awful extremity for a regular
built “spoils democrat” to be reduced to! Com
pelled to a voluntary Severance of himself, from the
service of his country, endeared to his heart by all
the happy experiences and, patriotic considerations
which in Democratic eyes constitute the peculiar, ii
not the only, charms of that service! And this, too,
by the President of his own ch; ice ! Alas—alas—a
voice is hourly ringiog in poor old Buck a ears from
the lips of legions of hungering—starving—Dalgetlys
of his party who surround him, “Rotation! Rotation !
The ins have been popping it long enough. It is
time for the outs to have a taste.” The old fellow
can’t help himself. There is not accoinrnodat ion for
all— the pressure is irresistible, the clamors deafen
ing and distracting. There is but one refuge—one ,
relief in the emergency, and that is in—Rotation ;
Not Rotation m the Junto sense of the term which if ,
rolling out of otu' fat office into another that is fat
ter—but in that vile and vulgar sense which leaves
the person rolled out to take care of himself for a
painfully indefinite series of years afterwards!
Apfßopkiaaions »y Congress.— The following
are some of the items of the appropriations made
by the last Congress. For the Coast Survey $420,
000 ; for the continuation of the Custom House, in
Charleston, $ 100,000; for repairs of Fort Sumter,
SIOO,OOO, and for fortifications on the coaot of Flo
rids, $648,000. The sum of $60,000 is appropriated
for the survey of the Keys off Florida coast.
Destructive Fire at Petersburg, Va. — On
Saturday last the extensive Hope Flour Mills of
Kevan & Bro., of Petersburg, Va., were totally
destroyed by fire. The Petersburg Democrat says :
“Irrespective of the mill work , the building, &c.,
Messrs. Kevan have lost some 400 bbls. of fine flour,
420 bushels of shorts, 43d bushels of ship stuff, 400
bushels of seconds, and between 7,000 and 8,000
bushels of prime wheat. This whole loss it estima
ted at about $50,000. The insurance stands thus :
On the stock, SIO,OOO in the Fire and Marine In
surance Company in Petersburg, nn*J s !,000 on the
Valley Insurance Company. On the buildng, &c.,
$13,500 in the Mutual Fire and Marino Insurance
Company in New York. ’
Earthquake in Millehobville.— We learn *,
from the Milledgeville Recorder, that on Sunday i
night last at half past 10 o’clock, a severe shock of
an Earthquake was felt in that city, so severe that ;
it awoke many persons from their sleep. It com
menced with a prolonged rumbling sound, like
thunder, but from below-t he sky cloudlesa-which
increased with great force, causing a considerable
vibration of the earth from East to Weatr-tho rum
bling from the West. Soon after its cessation, a j
severe and cold wind sprang up, the Thermometer !
falling in two hours 25° from .56 Ur 31, producing ice <
in abundance.
Another Stf. r More.— The cars on the Mem ,
phis and Charleston Railroad, are now running nine
miles beyond Corinth. Tlius. step by step, says the 1
Memphis Bulletin, the “irouhor.e” advances upon
the route, giving indication that the President of the i
company will make good the prophecy, that by the t
Ist of April there will be continuous, uninterrupted i
railroad communication between the Atlantic and 1
Mississippi at this point.
Tlie Reiiilfiirron of ('oiitfrenN.
The passage below occurred in the course of the
proceedings of the investigating committee in Con
~1*! s ; It U a paiuful commentary upon the charac
ter ot the highest legislative body iu the nation
. ‘ V ?’ r iptett, be’ng sworn, said he had “never
approacued any fhember, upon any subject, with an
improper proposition.”
By Ms. Orr—Have you been brought in contact
member in that connection.
v\ lUiesH -• 1 have. I suppose there is no body who
knows the organization of Congress who expects
o carry anything through it merely from the love
ol Justice?
j By Mr. Oit Is that the general reputation of
Congress.
Witness—That is the general reputation of Con
gress.
This, it will be admitted, iu a rather melancholy
picture for the contemplation of any man who has a
spark of national pride in his bosom ; yet we have
no doubt it is mod- graphic and truthful. Never
was there a more faithful hid ry written ot any de
liberative body than Tkiflett has given. We
nave no doubt it i: ns true as it is condensed. The
ouiy reason why the poor claimants, who crowd the
pas.-ng* a ot tho vApitol, have not had justice meted
cult to them, i because they are too poor to buy tho
votes. Corruption stalks abroad at noon-day in
both houses of Congress, and fn every department
. in\v ashingfon. \ ears gentleman, occupying'
a high position iu the government, assured ug, he
had no doubt that n man could with one thousand
dollars command any secret of the government. '
Alien SuitVnffo—lntere»tiiMg Dismission in tli*
Senate.
In the Senate of the United States on the 21st ult.,
the bill ajifliorifciqg the people of Minnesota to
*a Constitution and a State Govermuent being
consideration—
Mr. Biggs [North Carolina Democrat] moved an
amendment that none but citizens of the United
States be entitled to vote with reference to forma
tion of the Constitution and State Government. 110
<fid not know but wiiat tho ofieriug of such a pro
poe'iion might subject him to suspicion of being
tainted with Know Notbingism, but whether this
was one of the principles of the American party or
not, he was decidedly m favor of confining tho
privilege of voting to citizens of the United States,
uative or naturalized, in the formation of ulf organic
laws. 1
Mr. Brodhead alluded to the action of the Senate
or the Nebraska bill. They adopted an amendment
similar to this, which the House struck out. When
the bill came back to the Senate lie again moved to
insert that provision in the bill, being the only
Northern member who sanctioned that amendment
from the beginning to the end, the'others who voted
for it at first having yielded their convictions in
order to allow tho bill to pass Heuco he was in
favor of the present proposition, because he believed
the right of suffrage was co-extensive with the right
ot citizenship. ILe did not feel at liberty in defining
the rights of voters to go farther than the consti
tution of liis own State has gone, and that lifts- con
fined tho right of suffrage to citizens of the United
States.
Mr. Brown expressed his hearty concurrence
in the views expressed by the Senator from Penn
sylvania.
Mr. Douglas replied to Mr. Biggs’remarks, main
taming that the amendment was improper, and
showing in several instances that persons had beeu
constituted citizens of some of the States who wore
not citizens of the United States.
Mr. Seward considered the Question involved as
settled long ago, and forever. If Congress can per
mit all the jK'Oplo of California aud Texas to come
into the Union nsorgahlaed States, it can say a class
of poisons within the United States who are not
citizens -shall exercise the right of suffrage on this,
which a similar occasion. Uo was in favor of ad
milling aliens to vote, precisely for the same rea
son that these new States are to be chiefly settled
by aliens aud foreigners, or iu a large degree by
them, and bqlicvqji that this class of immigrants
who come to this country are, as a general loot, as
intelligent, and capable of exercising the func
tions of self-govemttmiit as our own educated citi
zens.
Mr. Bell of Tennessee favored amendments,
and advocuted such a modificat via of the existing
naturalization laws as would prvtfride additional at*
curities against the gross abuse* which had been
practiced under them.
Mr. Douglas appealed to the Senate nei to enter
into long discussions, else they might lose important
territorial bills.
Messrs. Mason, Biggs, and Gritloudi'U advocated
and Toucey and Wilson opposed it.
Mr. day entered a protest against Mr. Seward’s
doctrine that the right of sufferuge wiui co-ordinate
with the obligation to submit to and support any
defined government that would allow infanta, wo
men and colored persons to vote, and this should
teach the importance of having some limit attached
to the right of forming organic laws. lie was the
first iu the Senate to denounce Know-Notlfinginn,
but he would vote for this amendment. He con
fessed that he erro<Hn voting for the Nebraska bill
after Clayton’s amendineift was stricken out.
Mr. Butler said he joo voted for Clayton’s amend
ment, but yielded from the necessity of the ease, to
save the bill:
Mr. Bigg’s amendment was adopted—yeas 27,
nays 2-1, as follows : *
Yens—Adams, Bayard, Bell of Tennessee, Befija
rain, Biggs, R rod head, Brown, Butler, Clay, Crit
tenden, Evans, Fish, Fifzpntriok, Foote, Geyer,
Green. Houston, Hunter, I verson, Johnson, Jbnes,
_ol Tennessee, Mason, Reed, Rusk, Slidell, Thomp
son of N. J.. ThompaoA of Ky.
Nays—Allen, Bigler, Bright, Casa, Collamor,
Dodge, Douglas,*Dgrkce, Fessenden, Fitch, Foster,
Hale’ Jones o£Juwn, Nourse, Pugh, Seward, Stuart,
Toombs, Touoey, Trumbull, Wade, Welter, Wilson
and Wright.
Remarks. —Tiro Nashville Banner says Every
Republican Senator, it. will be seen, and all tho
Democratic Senators from the non-slavohblding
States, with the exception of Brodhead, ot Pennsyl
vania, ami Thompson, of New Jersey, voted in
favor of alien suffrage. Side by side with Seward,
Wilson, Hale, &c., were Ca3s, Douglas, Toucey,
&c. *
Mr. Toombs wus the only Southern|Senator that
voted with the Northern Democrats and the Black
Itepublicaus.
Mr. Clay, of Alabama, confessed that he erred iu
T oting for the Kausas-Nebraeka bill after the clause
prohibiting aliens from voting was stricken out in
the House of Representatives.
When that bill was before the Senate, it will be
recollected, every Southern Senator voted for t he pro
hibiting clause. But the bill would never have passed
the House with thatclansoknlt So it was stricken out
by the supporters of the bill there, and when the bil 1
went back to the Senate, all the Southern Senators,
save Mr. Bell mid Gen. Houston, voted to concur in
the amendment of the House allow ing aliens to vote,
although they had previously voted in favor of pro
hibiting them from voting. Mr. Hell from first to
last voted ip favor of the prohibition.
mi *
Illinois Banking. —A now Bank law has passed
the Illinois Legislature. The principal features iu
this law are:
1. That all bonds shall be received at 10 per cent
less than their STew-York value.
2. That when notes are-presented to a bank for
redemption, the redemption shall be pistant and in
gold.
3. The notes, jylieq payment is refused, may bo
protested in aggregate ; that is, each note is not ne
cessarily to be protested, /us is now the ruling.
4. That banks shall do business at the place where
they are established ; that they may receive 10 per
cent interest, and that ho bunk aha-I he'matter bo es
tablished in any place not having at least five hun
dred inhabitants.
5. That no bank hereafter organized shall go .into
operation without n cash capital of fifty thousand
dollars paid in.
The proposed establishment of a State Hanking
Department was struck out.
Rascally Counterfeit on Bank of Mobile.—
The Banking house of Jostah Morris, in this city, ie
ceived this morning, from a Bank Agency in Colum
bus, Georgia, a SIOO note on the Bank of Mobile, ot
the following description :
Paper tvhite and very poor. Signatures b'idly
done: Hallett, (President,) spelled Nallett. “C”
in a circle, near the centre. Vignette, a cupid or
angel astride a lion. Big Indian on the right end,
“ 100” in both left-hand corners. Filling up very
badly done.
This may be very good money across the Chatta
hoochee, but better imitations are required in this
market.— Mont. Mail, iid inst.
Railway Accidents in Great Britain. —In
Ihe course of recent debate in the British House of
Commons Mr. Cowe stated that in the year 1852,
cut of 88,000,000 persons who were carried by rail
way 10 were killed and 372 injured ; in 1853, 102,
000,000 traveled by railway, 36 were kilied and 280
were injured; in l£s-f, 114,000,000 traveled by rail -
way, 12 were killed and 331 injured; in 1855, 118,-
(100,000 traveled by railway, 10 were killed and 311
injured; and in 1856,125,900,000 traveled by rail
way, 8 were killed and 282 were injured. Under
these circumstances the Government did not see
any reason for legislative attention to the subject.
Gen. Scott’s Arreages and Pay.—The arreara
ges due Gen. Scott, for which provision has been
made by Congress will amount to about thirty-two
thousand four hundred dollars, and his annual pay
and emoluments will hereafter be fifteen thousand
dollars.
The Cincinnati Price Current of Wednesday, af
ter correcting errors and making additions to the
returns of the pork season already published, states
that the whole deficiency for the present year, com/
pared with 1855-6, is 685,517. The total footing .or
the yearis 2,484,802 head.
The Legislature of New York have at present un
%der consideration a bill incorporating a company
whorte dr sign it is to connect the cities of New York
.and Brooklyn by a suspension bridge, which, while
furnishing' a continuous street for the transit of pas
engers, will offer no obstruction -whatever to the
important navigation of the waters below. Some
of the New York editors, who have examined a
brief ol the proposed plans, are favorably
impressed with the idea.
The Distressing Accident on the Steamboat
New York. —The Louisville Courier, of the 19th
u't., gives the following account of the shocking ac
cident on board the steamboat New York, briefly
reported by telegraph some days ago :
The steamer New York, on her way trip to St..
Louis from Cincinnati, on Wednesday, got aground *
at Vevfty, where she remained until the Argonaut,
upward bound, came along. The latter was hailed
to assist her, and while in the act of pulling her by
means of a hawser, that led from the capstan at tho
stern, the line pair- and ail of the crew of the New
York" who were at work on the capstan at the time
were much hurt. There was a heavy strain on the
hawser, the end of which as it parted, struck the
men with such fearful force that tin y were knocked
senseless to the deck, presenting a most terrible
scene. It was thought .at fir*t tnat several of the
poor fellows had been killed outright.
()ne had his arm broken, another a leg snapped
off below the knee, a third, had fingers cut off, as if
by a knife, while one man had bis back broken, and
the ribs of another on one side were all crushed in.
The sufferers were stricken down and strewn over
the deck, all bleeding and maimed, as suddenly and
fatally as if not by a cannon ball, presenting afshoek
Jug spectacle. They wore placed on «the Argonaut
and sent back to Cincinnati, where, we understand,
they .reside.
The New York got off the bar, and arrived here
yesterday.
From Texas.—The San Antonio Texan of the
24th ult., lies the following Indian news from its
Laredo correspondent •
Capt \ T. Bracket, 2d Cavalry, from Fort" Clark,
-while scoistiilg with a portion of his company be
tween Eagle l‘a»s and Laredo on the Ist of Febru -
ary, near Live Oak Creek, fell in with a party of
Tonkaway Indians who retreated to a dense thicket
of live oaks where they were pursued by the Capt
and notwithstanding the most active efforts of the
soldiers succeeded in crossing the Rio Grande into
Mexico. The deer which they had killed ns well as
a quantity of clothing were taken by the soldiers.—
The Indians were well armed with rifles, bows and
arrows.
Williom Mattoon, of SprkitieW, Maas., iu connec
tion with his brother, has contracted to construct
the abutments and towers for the suspension bridge
over the Ohio at Cincinnati. The towers are to be
23U feet high, and the amount of the coutraot is one
million dollars.