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WeeW Cljrttuich’ 1
ESKSS CONSOLIDATED MARCH 17,1877.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY.
THE SOUND OF THE GAVEL. IS AGAIN
HEAKDIN THE STATE HOUSE
First Day of the Special Session—Gov
ernor Boynton’s ge—The Two
Houses Herelve the Election Returns
From the Secretary of State.
SENATE.
(Special to Chronicle and Constitutionalist,)
Atlanta, May, 9.—The Senate was
called do order promptly at ten o’clock
by Senator Polhill, president pro tem.
Prayer by the Chaplain, Rev. John
J ones.
The speaker then announced that the
Senate was duly organized and ready for
such businesi as may legally be brought
before the body. He then ordered the
reading of the Governor’s proclamation
calling the extra session of the Legisla
ture, which was read.
Senator Gustin offered the fpllowiog ;
Resolved, That the General Assembly
-will meet in joint session, at 12, m. to-day.
for the purpose of counting the vote and
declaring the result of the special election
for Governor, held on April 24th, 1883.
On motion of Senator Peeples, the reso
lution was temporarily tabled in order that
the following might be offered :
Resolved, That a joint committee of two
from the Senate and four from the House
be appointed to wait upon the Governor
and inform him that this body is now duly
organized and ready to receive any message
he may have to submit. Passed.
Messrs. Peeples and Meldrim were an
nounced as the committee from the Senate.
The resolution of Senator Gustin was
then taken from the table, and discussed
by Senators Hoyt, Livingston and Gustin.
Senator Hoyt argued that under the
Constitution the vote could not be counted
and declared until the second day of the
session, and read constitutional provisions
touching this duty of the Legislature.
Senator Gustin argued that the consti
tution did not contemplate in this lan
guage, a special session, but that under
the provisions for calling and holding
special sessions, there was nothing in the
way of taking such action as that contemp
lated in his resolution.
The resolution was then put upon its
passage and adopted.
Mr. Peeples, chairman of the committee
appointed to wait on the Governor, re
ported that the committee had performed
its duty and that the Governor would im
mediately communicate with the Senate.
A message was received from the House
announcing its Concurrence in the resolu
tion providing for a joint committee.
A message from the Governor was an
nounced, and the message taken up and
read, as follows:
Gov. Boynton's Message.
’ Executive Dkpabtment, State of Ga , 1
Atlanta, Ga., May 9,1883. j
To (he General Assembly :
A great calamity befell the State in the
<’ death of her illustrious citizen, the Hon.
Alfctßnder H. BtepWenS; „ „ne
exacted office of Magistrate. On the
4th day of March last, after an illness of
two weeks, the venerable and distin
guished statesman, so dear to every Geor
gian, passed quietly away, amidst the sor
rowing regret of his people. Receiving
official notification as President of the
Senate, of the sad event from the vener
able Secretary of State, I repaired to the
capital in response to his call, served in
conformity with the statute, and on the
morning of the s:h of March, as required
by law, took the oath of office prescribed
by the Constitution for the Governor, and
administered by the Chief Justice of the
Supreme Court, and entered upon the ad
ministration of the executive responsibili
ties, as prescribed in paragraph 8, section
1, article 5. of the Constitution, which
reads as follows:
“In the case of the death, resignation
or disability of the Governor, the Presi
dent of the Senate shall exercise the Ex
ecutive powers of the government until
such disability be removed or a successor
is elected and qualified.”
The same distressing public bereave
ment imposed upon me the duty of order
ing an election to fill the remainder of the
term of the deceased statesman and Gov
ernor, and of convening the General As
sembly to count the votes cast at the said
election for Governor, and to install into
the gubernatorial office the duly elected
choice of the people. The law did not
even allow delay until the beloved dead
had been laid away in the soil that gave
him birth, and that he loved so well; but
required that immediate action should be
taken, under section 1301 of the Code,
which reads as follows:
“Whenever a vacancy shall occur in the
office of governor by death, resignation
or otherwise, it shall be the duty of the
President of the Senate, or Speaker of the
House of Representatives, as the case may
be, exercisng the Executive powers of the
government as provide! by the Bth para
graph of the Ist section of the sth article
of the constitution of this State,to issue bis
proclamation immediately upon his as
sumption of the duties of the Executive,
ordering a special election for governor to
fill the vacancy so occasioned for the unex
pired term,” etc.
And thus before the funeral obsequies,
which the edizens of a great commonwealth
delighted to bestow upon her honored
dead, I issued the following proclamation
ordering a special election and calling an
extra session of the General Assembly:
Proclamation.
Georgia: By James 8. Boynton, Governor
of said State.
Whereas, The law requires immediate
action:
I have, theiefore, thought proper to
issue this my proclamation, ordering that
an election be held on Tuesday, the 24th
day of April, 1883, in the State, for Gov
ernor of Georgia, to fill the vacancy in said
office occasioned by the death of the Hon.
Alexander H. Stephens.
And I do further order, that the General
Assembly of Georgia convene in extra ses
sion on Wednesday, the 9th day of May,
1883, at the capital in Atlanta, to declare
the result of said election, or elect a Gov
ernor in case no person shall receive a
majority of votes cast.
Given under my band and the Great
Seal of the State, at the Capitol, in Atlanta,
this, the fifth day of March, in the year of
our Lord one thousand eight hundred and
eighty-three, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the one
hundred and seventh.
James S. Boynton, Governor.
By the Governor.
N. C. Barnett, Secretary of State.
In conformity with this proclamation,
an election was held the 24th day of April
last, for a Governor, to fill the unexpirei
term of Governor A. H. Stephens, and. in
fuither conformity with said proclamation,
your honorable body has assembled to de
clare the result of such election, and in
augurate the distinguished citizen who has
been chosen by the suffrages of our free
and enlightened people to become the
Chief Magistrate of the Commonwealth.
I trust it will not be deemed unbecom
ing in me to express my high estimate of
the character and life of the illustrious
dead, and my appreciation of the loss to
the State and country. Gov. Stephens,
take him all in all, is one of the brightest
and greatest figures in Georgia’s history.
Other men may have surpassed in special
domains of thought or action, but no his
toric character of the Commonwealth i->
more rounded and complete, more varied
in intellectual attributes, more thoroughly
equipped with moral excellence and manly
virtue, more noble in heroic fibre, more
fitted for exalted trust, more continuously
conspicuous by uniform and lofty achieve
ment. He was a good man, a wise man, a
great man He was a great "rator, a great
thinker, a great writer, a great statesman,
a great actor, a great philanthropist, a
great practical exemplar of Christianity.
He had genius, and yet was profoundly
practical. To the soaring inspirations of
his genius he added the twin powers of a
sleepless patience and untiring laborious
ness.
Governor Stephens was, and will be. the
most national figure we have ever bad in
the State, as effluent as it has been in
brilliant and richly endowed men. He
has had, in addition, a more world-wide
fame than any public man of the Common
wealth. The magnitude of such a loss
cannot well be measured. The scope and
lesson of Mr. Stephens’ Rfejs W
jnUtejU,
exalting groty
OUr State. It is a life that will grow
brighter and stronger with the mellowin?
influences of time, and in the truthful
light of philosophical history.
After a long life of service in various and
important public trusts, which he filled
with such distinguished ability, he was
called, by a very large majority, to the of
fiee of Chief Magistrate of the State. He
entered upon the discharge of his duties
with a ripe experience and a varied knowl-*
edge of the pub ic wants, and inaugurated
a wise and conservative policy in his ad
ministration well calculated to advance
every interest and industry, protect the
rights and promote the prosperity of its
citizens. While Providence, by its interpo
sition, prevented the maturing of the
symmetrical and beneficent plans of this
conscientious public servant, yet he left
sufficient of accomplished work behind
him to evoke the plaudits of an appre
ciative people, and entitle him to the grat
itude of the commonwealth.
The death of Governor Stephens while
vested with the executive authority as
Chief Magistrate, as well as the illustrious
character and services of the deceased,
renderedit proper, in my judgment, to
adopt every measure to show respect to
his memory by the State in his funeral ob
sequies.
To this end thecapitol was appropriate
ly draped in tasteful and expiessive em
blems of mourning for the distinguished
dead. All parts of the State were inform
ed by telegraph of the exercises, and
every preparation was made for imposing
funeral ceremonies. The expenses of
drapery and funeral are regarded as a
proper charge upon the State, and I do not
doubt that at a proper time you will pro
vide for the payment of the same.
While your body is under the Constitu
tion confined in your deliberations at this
called session to the specific object for
which you were convened, and I shall
therefore not present matter for your ac
tion, I deem it not inappropriate to state
for your information several cheering facts
that demonstrate the prosperous condition
of our State finances and furnish matter
for congratulation.
The resolution of the General Assembly,
authorizing the sale of the $160,000 of
United States registered bonds received by
the State from the purchasers of the Ma
con and Brunswick Railroad has been en
forced, and a most advantageous sale was
made by the treasurer in New York. The
bonds brought $180,200 or a premium of
$23,2C0 on the bonds for the benefit of
the State. The cost of the sale was only
SIOO brokerage and the treasurer’s ex
penses less than SIOO. This money will be
devoted to paying the public debt. In addi
tion to this $114,000 of bonds not yet due
paid by the purchasers of the Macon and
Brunswick Railroad have been cancelled
and warrent given for the same. This in
cluded $74,500 of the 7 per cent, bonds
issued by Governor Jenkins to rehabili
tate the State Road, due in 1866, and
$39,500 of the 6 per cent. State endorsed
bonds of Savani ah and Gulf Railroads
due in 1886, 1887 and 1889.
The reports of the treasurer show that,
in addition to these items, the sum of
$367,971 of the public debt of the State,
principal and interest, has been paid in
the last few months, steadily reducing the
State’s debt, and demonstrating the solid
integrity of the State’s credit, as well as
the advancing value of her securities.
Called to the Executive chair under the
shock to the public feeling occasioned by
the decease of my lamented predecessor,
at the very outset, almost, of his adminis
tration, though after he had inaugurated a
fixed policy, it has been my earnest aspira
tion to continue the careful and conserva
tive rule he so successfully commenced.
That there has been every evidence of con
tinued and continuing prosperity in all
matters of public welfare during my brief
period of executive duty, I am pleased to
recognize as testifying to my zealous de
sire to conserve the best interests of our
great commonwealth. James S. Boynton.
By Mr. Hoyt— Resolved, That a commit
tee of four from th® Senate and eight from
the House be appointed to prepare a me
morial of the late Governor, Alexander H.
Stephens, to report to the General Assem
bly to convene on the first Wednesday in
July next. Adopted.
Mr. Parks, chairman of the committee
appointed to wait on the Secretary of State,
reported that that officer would immedi
ately lay the returns before the Senate,
which was done, and the same transmit
ted to the House.
The President announced the following
as the memorial committee, on the part of
the Senate: Senators Hoyt, Tutt, Lamar
and Jones.
At this point a message was received
from the House announcing its concurrence
in the Senate resolution to meet in joint
session at 12, m., for counting and de
claring the result of the special election.
Oa motion, the Senate then adjourned
to meet at 11.33.
Met according to adjournment, and ad
journed to 11:50, the House having ad
journed to that hour.
11:30-Senate called to order by the
President, pro tem., when the body pro
ceeded to the hall of the House of Repre
sentatives to participate in the joint ses
sion.
HOUSE.
Speaker Garrard called the House of
Representatives to order at precisely ten
o’clock. Prayer by Rev. J. F. McClellan,
Chaplain of the House followed by the
calling of the roll.
About twenty absentees were noted.
The speaker, "after a brief and eloquent
address, stating the object of the session,
announced that a quorum being present,
the House was ready for business.
Mr. Humber, of Putnam, offered a reso
lutfon that the clerk of the House be in
structed to notify the Senate that the
House is in session and a quorum present.
Adopted.
A message from the Senate, notifying
the House that the Senate was in session
and ready for business, was received.
The House concurred in a resolution of
the Senate appointing a committee to noti
fy Governor James S. Boynton that the
General Assemblj is in session, and ready
to receive any communication. The
Speaker appointed Jordan, of Hancock,
Wood, of Walker, and Crittenden, of Ran
dolph, a committee to wait on the Gov
ernor.
The joint committee appointed to wait
on the Governor reported that they had
discharged their duty and that the Gov
ernor would send in his message.
A message from acting Governor James
8. Boynton was now announced and re
ceived. Oa motion of Mr. Sweat, of Clinch,
the message was read by the clerk.
On motion of Mr. Crenshaw, of Troup,
the House concurred in a resolution from
the Senate to count the vote cast in the
election for Governor, April 24tb, 1883,
at 12 o’clock to-day.
Mr. McCurry, of Hart, offered a resolu
tion that three hundred copies of the Gov
ernor’s message be printed for the use of
tbe House. Carried by a vote of 79' to 55
Mr. Harris, of Bibb, offered a resolution
that a committee of five from the House be
appointed to prepare suitable resolutions
upon tbe late Governor S'.ephens, and re
port at the session of the Assembly in
July. Carried.
On motion of Mr. Gary, of Richmond,
tbe House took a recess till ten minute® to.
twelve.
The House re-assembled and was called
to order by the speaker.
The
eo&ffilttfeeof fduri from
inate wnd eighth from the House to
■draft a memorial of the late Governor
Stephens and report the same to tbe ses
sion of the General Assembly in July.
Mr. Harris, of Bibb, was allowed to
withdraw his resolution adopted by the
House in reference to the same subject
matter.
Mr. Humber, of Putnam, moved a resolu
tion that a committee of five be appointed
from the House to prepare and report res
olutions on the death of Senator B. H.
Hill and report to the July session. Car
ried.
Mr. Wright, of Washington, offered a
similar resolution in relation to the late
Governor Herschel V. Johnson,
In Joint Session.
At this juncture the Senate entered with
the returns of the election for Governor
held April 24 b, 1883.
On motion of Mr. Ray, of Coweta, three
tellers were appointed, one from the Sen
ate and two from the House - Senator
George, of Morgan, and Representatives
Ray, of Coweta, and Hudson, of Webster.
The two Houses in joint session pro
ceeded to count tbe votes- tbe vote for
Governor being 23,683. Adjourned.
The inauguration of Governor McDaniel
takes place to-morrow.
The Legislature Finishes the Work and
Adjourns—Governor McDaniel’s Inau
gural—A Strong Paper—All Sereneat
the State House Again.
SENATE.
The Senate met at 10, a. m., President,
pro tem, Polbill in the chair.
Prayer by Rev. John Jones, Chaplain.
Tbe roll was called and all the members
answered except those reported absent
yesterday.
The journal of yesterday’s session was
read and confirmed.
On motion of Senator Meldiim, Hons.
Dupont Guerry and P. W, Martin were in
vited to seats on the floor.
A message was received from the House
announcing its concurrence in the Senate
resolution relating to the Governor’s in
auguration. Also, that the House bad con
curred in the Senate resolution relating to
a memorial service in honor of the late
Senator Benj. H. Hill.
Mr. Livingston, chairman of the joint
committee to arrange for the inauguration
of the Governor elect, reported the follow
ing programme :
Joint session of the two Houses in the Repre
sentative Chamber at 11 o’clock.
Music.
Prcceesion made up as follows:
Governors Boynton and McDaniel.
Chief Justice James Jack bob and Col. N. C.
Barnett.
Asscciate Justices of the Supreme Court.
Ex-Governors of Georgia
United States Senators and Congressmen.
Judges Superior and United States Courts.
State House Officers and Railroad Commis
sioners.
Mayor and City Council of Atlanta.
Ex United States Senators and Ex-Congress
men.
Ex-Judges.
Distinguished citizens from other States.
Those invited to take part in the procession
are requested to meet in the executive office at
10:30, o’clock, sharp.
At the entranc’of rhe precession the joint
session will rise and be seated at the stroke of
the gavel by the president.
Music as the precession enters.
Prayer by the chaplain of the Senate.
Inaugural.
Oath cf office administered by the Chief
Justice.
Delivery of tbe great seal by Col. Barnett to
the President of the Senate, who will hand it
to Governor McDaniel, who returns it to the
Secretary of State.
Benediction by the chaplain of the House.
Music.
The families of the incoming and outgoing
Governors, Justices of the Supreme Court, ex-
Governors, State House officers and members
of the General Assembly will be admitted on
the floor of the House.
All other ladies are invited to seats in the
gallery where the front seats will be reserved
for them.
L. F. Livingston,
Chairman Senate Committee.
T. C. Crenshaw,
Chairman House Committee.
On motion the Senate took a recess, sub
ject to the call of the President.
A message was received from the House
announcing the passage of a ..resolution
providing for a joint committbe'to prepare
resolutions commemorative of the life and
services of the late Governor Herschel V.
V. Johnson, and report at the July ses
sion.
The resolution of the House was at once
taken up and concurred in. The President
announced the following as the committee
on the part of tbe Senate : Messrs. Smith,
Dnßigron and Morgan.
The hour for the j lint session having ar
rived, the Senate formed in procession and
repaired to the hall of the House of Repre
sentatives to participate in the inaugural
ceremonies.
HOUSE.
The House assembled at half-past ten
o’clock. A great crowd filled the galleries
including hundreds of ladies. There were
many ladies also seated on the floor of the
House. A message from the Senate was
received to the effect that the Senate had
agreed to the resolution convening a joint
session of the houses at 11 o’clock.
At precisely 11 o’clock the Senate enter
ed tbe House which arose and received it
standing. And then the Atlanta Musical
Union Band, seated in the front gallery,
played a fine selection excellently well.
President of the Senate Polhill, then an
nounced that the General Assembly was
now in joint session for the purpose of in
augurating Henry D. McDaniel Governor
of Georgia. So much of the House journal
as related to joint sessions was then order
ed read.
Governor-elect McDaniel now entered,
leaning upon the arm of Governor James
S. Boynton, followed by Senator Colquitt,
ex-Senator H. V. M. Miller, ex-Governor
Bullock, the State House officialsand other
distinguished gentlemen. The procession
moved down the aisle to music by the
band.
Rev. John Jones, Chaplain of the Sen
ate, offered up a most beautiful and im
pressive prayer; after which Governor
elect Henry D. McDaniel delivered his in
augural address as follows:
Inaugural Address.
Gentlemen of the General Assembly and
fellow-citizens—The occasion for this as
semblage suggests the recent loss of the
State and of mankind in the death of Mr.
WEDNESDAY MAY 16, 1883.
Stephens, term in the
'-ffiie of Governor, I nave been called to
fill. More who ever lived,
he deserved to b«*-Mimed “The Great
Commoner.” l|OM||frined tbe illustrious
men, whose plaeajuthe hearts of the peo
ple cf expressed in
the adornmenWwthis Representative
hall. His is the price
less heritage of countrymen.
In assuming ths duties from which Di
vine Providence has removed him, I desire
to express my greatful thanks to the people
for this mark o<qehfidence and esteem. I
cannot hope to" bring to the discharge of
these responsible duties the varied ex
perience, profound knowledge and con
summate wisdom, ; wMoh characterized
him. But I may hope to exhibit the same
devotion to all the Interests intrusted to
my care. ’
The of our gov-
: A as %§■ Federal rela-
the" Constitution.
3T«ee'd ndt repeat them to this assemblage,
composed of those who enact laws, and
those who interptet them, and those who
execute them, and Intelligent citizens, who
are accustomed to observe, and to judge
impartially, the manner of performance of
official duties. Our chief concern is not
with these maxims which are the results
of the revolution and development of cen
turies, and which are familiar to all, but
with measures of administration, designed
to carry them into effect.
The office of government is to main
tain order, to suppress crime, and to in
sure to all the fruits of honest labor, and
the undisturbed pursuit of happiness. It
can never be perfect or finished. New
conditions constantly require appropriate
legislation. Laws, wise in origin, and
wholesome in operation, lose fitness in the
changes incident to modern progress, and
must be modified, or yield to other meas
ures, better adapted to the emergency.
Diversities of interest tend to produce di
versities of opinion in matters of State
policy.
These conflicts of opinion are real and
confront us in every detail of legislation.
But there is no real conflict of interest be
tween various classes of the people—di
verse as may be their occupations. What
is wholesome for one class cannot be hurt
ful to another; and what is hurtful to one
must result in injury to all. It is a com
mon mistake that the prosperity of one
class depends on laws enacted for its spe
cial benefit. Legislation will not supply
the want of those qualities of industry,
thrift, skill and prudence on which rest
alike private and public prosperity. What
is neeeed in legislation is that it shall be
just to all classes, imposing no burdens
that are not equally borne by all. Within
these limits the administration will be best
which is felt least by the people.
Taxation, from the sovereign nature of
the powers exercised, is the most important
subject of State policy. It is felt in every
household. When burdensome, it crushes
the weak and clogs the efforts of all who
endeavor to improve their fortunes. No
free people should long submit to unjust
systems of fixation, which can be reme
died. Experience teaches how difficult it
is to carry into effect the wholesome pro
visions of our constitution, that taxation
shall be equal and uniform, Much has
been done to perfect the system, but much
remains to be done. This must be left to
to the skill and patriotism of the Legisla
ture, applying the lessons of the past to
the conditions of the future.
Besides improvements in tax laws, de
signed to thoroughly distribute public
burdens, a policy to be patiently and per
sistently pursued, it is our duty to main
tain the present low rate of taxation, and
to reduce it if it can be done without crip
pling the resources of the treasury. It is
true that our credit is equal to that of any
State in the Union; that we annually re
duce our debt; that we might pay it off
within a reasonable time by sales of public
property; that our pride in the financial
condition of Georgia is justified by tbe
increasing wealth and prosperity of the
people. But these advantages should not
inspire merely a feeling of satisfaction and
pride; we must use them to the utmost as a
means to effect these desirable results. To
accomplish this, economy in expense must
be rigidly enforced. The public can
no more hope to keep money in the treas
ury without discriminating economy than
individuals in their private business.
There may be many worthy objects for
which expenditure of public money would
nreve beneficial were our resources un
limited. The constitution does not leave
us in doubt as to what are legitimate ob
jects of expenditure. These are plainly
expressed, and comprehend brief the sup
port cf the government in all its depart
ments, the support of the public institu
tions for the care of the helpless classes,
the support of the public schools, the
pavment of the public debt, and the
public defense. For these objects wise
economy will require as much to be done
as the State can do without burdening
the people—no object, save the public de
fense, will justify an increase of public
burdens.
A State of abounding territory, rich, in
climate, in soil, in minerals, in forests, in
water power and in harbors; blessed with
a variety of crops and fruits unequalled in
any country of like extent on the globe;
traversed by nearly three thousand miles
of railway, with a teeming population eager
to place her in the front rank of American
States,in agriculture, in commercein manu
factures and in all that manifests the pro
gress of a great people—surely the task of
rightly governing such a commonwealth
requires the wisdom and patriotism of all
her sons. I take courage in the fact, that
all the departments of State government,
although distinct and independent, are
wisely burdened with a share of the du
ties, upon the discharge of which depends
the common welfare. These vast interests
will not rest on the Executive alone So
far as my power extends, the laws will be
rigidly enforced, and all officials will be
held to a strict accountability. I may often
commit errors of judgment-never inten
tionally wrong. Nor are legislative, judi
cial and executive officers alone responsi
ble for the enforcement of law and wise
administration of public affairs. All citi
izens owe a duty to the country in sustain
ing and assisting, and defending the work
of their servants in office. Public opinion,
in a free State, is all powerful. It can de
feat the execution of every vital law—such
as laws to preserve the purity of elections,
upon which depends the very life of the
State, laws for the suppression of crime,
without tbe vigorous execution of which
government becomes a farce; and all laws
for the preservation of society. No wisdom
in the counsels of the Legislature, no dig
nity and purity and learning on the bench,
no vigilance and firmness on the part of
the executive will prevail against the bane
fu! effects of a lax public opinion.
Let us resolve, each in his appropriate
sphere, to contribute all in on* power to
promote the happiness and prosperity of
all the people of the State, by insuring to
them the impartial execution of just laws.
For all mistakes, I trust to your forbear
ance and to the indulgence of the public,
whose opinions are the final test of official
conduct. With a painful distrust of my
ability, but with a firm reliance on your
assistance and in that of a higher power,
whose presence in our affairs is reverently
and earnestly invoked, I am now ready
to assume the duties to which I have been
elevated by favor of the people of Georgia.
The address was spoken in a distinct
voice, with great dignity and effectiveness,
holding the great audience in profound
attention from beginning to end.
The address was greeted with great ap-
plause. Chief Justice Jackson then ad
minhtered the oath of office, after which
President Polhill committed to him the
Great Seal, and declared Hon. Henry D.
McDaniel Governor of Georgia. Chaplain
McClellan, of the House, then pronounced
the benediction, alter which she band
played Dixie amid tumultuous applause.
On motion of Senator Gustin, cf the
23d, the joint session of the Genera! As
sembly was dissolved. Governor McDan
iel and escort passed into the Executive
Office, where the Chief Magistrate was
called on and congratulated by hundreds.
He received all most cordially—making a
fine impression upon the people by his
easy address and dignity of manner.
Mr. Ray, of Coweta, offered a joint reso
lution that the General Assembly adjourn
at 1 o’clock to re assemble the first Wednes
day (the fourth day) in July next.
On motion of Mr. Wimberly, of Burke,
the House took a recess of fifteen minutes
- The recess over,'and there being nothing
else to do, the House adjourned at half
past twelve to reassemble in July.
The committee to prepare resolutions for
the July session on the death of Governor
Stephens are N. E. Harris, of Bibb; E. F.
Hoge, of Fulton; B. F. Moore, of Talia
frrrro; J. T. Jordan, of Hancock; C. R
Pringle, of Washington; J. E. Redwine,
ot Hall; H. C. Jones, of DeKalb, and W.
W. Brooks, of Floyd, from the Horse.
Committee on Senator B. H. Hill: R. C.
Humber, of Putnam; W. T. Gary, of Rich
mond; Robert Falligant. of Chatham; E
H. Beck, of Lumpkin, and Thos. E. Wat
son, of McDuffie.
Committee on Ex-Governor H. V. John
son; H. G. Wright, of Washington; W. A.
Lofton, of Bibb; J. M. Dupree, of Macon;
H. A. Jenkins, of Patnam, and James
Stapleton, of Jefferson. Richmond.
DODGE CITY. KANS »S,IN THE HANDS
OF DESPERADOES.
Gamblers and Ruffians Capture the
Town and Governing to Suit Them
selves—Suppressing Press Facilities
and Running Citizens Out of the Villa
—•Life and Property in Danger—Mar
tial Law to be Resorted To.
(By Telegraph to the Chronicle.)
Kansas City, May 9. —For ten days a re
markable and startling state cf affairs has
existed at Dodge City, Kansas, and all
mention thereof has been kept quiet.
Several prominent Kansas City attorneys
left to-day for Topeka, to petition Gov.
Glick to place the town under martial law.
The trouble is the culminatiju of long
standing feuds between two elements
in that place. Dodge City has long
borne the unenviable reputation of be
ing a hard town. It is one of the few
points in Kansas where saloons are run
openly and gambling is legitimate. It is
also the headquarters of the cowboys and
cattle men of the vicinity. Before the
last city election the mayor was a man
named Webster, proprietor of “The
Dive,*’ half of which is a saloon and half a
gambling house and variety hall. He was
the representative of the lower element of
the sporting fraternity. The head of tbe
other faction was W. H. Harris. This ele
ment was more peaceable, but there
was a bitter feeling between the two. At
the election for mayor Harris was beaten
and DeGue, Webster’s candidate, elected,
and since then it has been conceded that
Harris would be driven out of the place.
Ten days ago a man named Short, who is
a partner of Harris, and a police offi
cer, had a shooting affray, but
neither was hurt. Short was thrown
into j ail, although the evidence show
ed he was fired at first. Later five
gamblers were arrested and lodged in jail.
That night a vigilance committee was
formed with Tom Nixon, the proprietor of
one of tbe most notorious dance houses
in the west, at its head. This crowd re
paired to the jail and notified the prison
ers they must leave the town in the morn
ing. In the meantime, vigilants took
possesion of the town. Newspaper
correspondents were notified that
they must not send telegrams.—
A body of armed men watched the
the arrival of each train to see that there
was no interference. A lawyer from Larn
ed, who was sent for by one of the
prisoners, was met by the vigilante who
leveled guns at hie head and told him not
to stop. The next morning the gamblers
were put on the west bound train and
Short left for Kan ess City where he
ie now. Dodge city is practically in the
hands of vigilante and the situation is
more serious from the. fact that the mayor
is acting with them. It was he who noti
fied the prisoners that they must leave the
town. The incoming trains are still watch
ed and armed men guard the town,while a
list of others who will be ordered away is
being prepared.
THAT TONQ.UIY TROUBLE.
France Assumes Control —Troops to
tbe Scene.
(By Cable to the Chronicle.)
Paris, May 9.—M. Conrad to-day in
formed the committee of the Chamber of
Deputies on the Tonquin expedition, that
4,oooAnnamite or Chinese troops attacked
Ha Noi, the Capital of Tonquin, on March
20th, but were repulsed by the French.
He also stated that Capt. Keragardic
bears a letter from President Grevy
informing the King of Annam that
his inability to assure the security of
Tonquin compels France to establish
herself definitely there. The letter ad
vises the King not to resist, invites him to
recognize the protection of France, and
guarantees the integrity ot his dominions.
M. Conrad added that the French would
collect taxes in Annam and instal officials
who were devoted to France, and the occu
pation of Del would lead to the possession
of the whole province. The reinforcements
leaving France for Tonquin includes 3
batteries of mountain artillery. ’fhe
committee has adopted a report in favor
of the credit proposed by the government
for the ex'enses of the expedition. It is
stated that Capt. Kergaradic, the French
envoy to Annam, will be recalled and an
other envoy sent to re place him. Two
thousand Chinese troops have been dis
patched in direction of Tonquin.
« XOT GUILTY .”
Thompson's Plea on Arraignment Yei
terday.
(By Telegraph to the Chronicle.)
Habbodsbueg, Kt., May 10.—When 12
jurors had been accepted and were about
to be sworn in yesterday in the Thompson
murder case, the counsel for the prosecu
tion asked that the jury be sent out of the
court room while he made a statement.
The jury retired, and the counsel stated
that he had ascertained since the ac
ceptance of the jury that one of its
number, Theodore Bank, was under indict
ment in this court for shooting with intent
to kill, and asked that he ba excused from
serving. The court granted the request.
The defense noted an exception to the rul
ing. Another jaror was accepted. Hon.
Phil B. Thompson, Jr., the defendant, was
arraigned and pleaded "not guilty,” and
the opening statement of the case was made
by the counsel for the prosecution.
THE WHEAT PROSPECT
AS REPORTED Tt» THE DEPART
MENT OF AGRICULTURE.
Cotton—Tbe Planting of tbe Staple
Late—Otber Yews From Washington
About Political Persons and Things.
(By Telegraph to the Chronicle.)
Washington, May 10.—The May returns
of wheat to the Department of Agricul
ture make the condition, as compared
with the April averages, materially lower
in New York and Michigan, and in Ohio
and Illinois fuither injury was brought on
by the frosts early in April, and in the
more northern districts the real damage by
the March freezing was more fully dis
closed as the covering of snow and ice
disappeared. The average for these
States is:
New York 77
Michigan 82
Ohio 62
Illinois 66
A further loss is suffered by the plowing
up of large areas in Ohio and Illinois. A
reduction in Missouri from 83 to 80 is
also reported. In Indiana the condition
averages 75, and New Jersey reports 101
both the same as in April. All the remain
ing northern States show an improve
ment since the April report, as well as the
Pacific coast, and nearly all the Southern
States. In the latter two classes the aver
ages are:
Connecticut 96
Pennsylvania 95
Delaware 85
Maryland 99
Virginia 97
North Carolina 96
South Carolina . .... 93
Georgia 97
Alabama 98
Mississippi 92
Texas 87
Arkansas 86
Tennessee 88
West Virginia 90
Kentucky 81
Kansas 91
California 77
Oregon , 72
This is an improvement of 15 points in
California and 17 in Oregon.
The average condition of winter wheat is
83J£ against 80 in April. A loss in area
from replanting in the other crops may be
assumed to reduce the prospect of April
Ist. In 1879 and 1883 the general aver
age was 99; in 1881 it was 88, and in
1882 it was 102; in May of last year, 100.
In the former years there were no May re
turns. Two years ago the average declin
ed to 80 in July. Last year it increased to
104 at the time of cutting It should be
understood that in the department reports
of condition, 103 means a medium growth
with a full stand and a healthy plant. The
Ohio and Illinois reports compare with last
vear’s crops thus : Ohio reports for May
56 compared with last year, and 62 com
pared with an average crop.
Thesprinz wheat area will not be com
plete till May 15, and will be reported on
June 1. The statistical agent fox Dakota
makes a probable increase of 30 per cent.
The agent for Minnesota reported 86 per
cent, of last year’s area already planted.
An increase of 15 per cent, is reported in
Washington Territory. It is not probable
that the increase in the spring wheat area
will moie than make good the loss of
the winter wheat acreage, without regard
to thespring wheat breadth.
A dispatch from the London statistical
agent, under date of April 28th, reports
an improvement in European wheat pros
pects during the last month. The severity
of March was followed by three weeks of
dry weather, which was succeeded by one
week of invigorating rain. • The season is
still backward, and a higher temperature
is needed. The small area of spring sown
wheat in England is thin, and much of it
will be displaced by barley. In France
and Germany rain is needed and a higher
temperature necessary. With reduced
acreage in Western Europe and some in
jury from freezing in March,a reduced crop
appears to be inevitable. In Austria and
Hungary the prospect is favorable for at
least a medium crop.
Cotton.
Returns of the progress of cotton plant
ing show that work to be later than usual
in every State, and indicate that on May the
first 74 per cent, of the proposed area was
planted, when the usual proportion is said
to be 84 per cent. In Virginia and North
Carolina it was very late. Tbe percentage
planted were:
Virginia .15
North Carolina. 35
South Carolina..’ 75
Georgia 75
Florida 96
Alabama 83
Mississippi 82
Louisiana 81
Texas 75
Arkansas 72
Tennessee 67
The Chief Examiner at Last Chosen.
The President to-day selected Chas.
Lyman, chief clerk of the United States
Treasurer’s office, to be chief examiner
under the Civil Service Comission vice Dr.
B. Randolph Keim, withdrawn. Keim’s
letter of withdrawal was handed to the
President to-day and Lyman’s commis
sion was at once issued. Lyman, who
has for a long time been identified
with the civil service reform, was
an active member of the Civil Service
Board appointed by Gen. Grant. He
served in the army during the war of the
rebellion and made a good record. He
was appointed to a clerkship in the Sec
ond Auditor’s office, Treasury Depart
ment, in 1864, and was subsequently
promoted to be assistant chief of the
stationery division, and in 1877 was
made chief clerk of the Treasurer’s office,
which latter position he now holds. He
will undoubtedly accept his new appoint
ment.
Introducing Witnesses Again.
At the opening of the Star Route trial,
to-day, Judge Wylie referred to a remark
of his yesterday.in response to Wilson, who
was then speaking for the defense, which
remark implied censure upon Charles P.
Blacknaar,. post office clerk, who
was one of the witnesses, Judge
Wylie said that such censure was
undeserved, and his remarks should
properly apply only to Rerdell, with
whom Blackmar’s name was coupled in
regard to a proposal from Rerdell to use
his right to challenge jurors in favor of the
government. The counsel for the defense
declared the court was now in error and
that the evidence showed a positive bar
gain between Black mar and Rerdell to
carry into effect Rerdell’s proposition.
Judge Wylie replied that the evi
dence showed that the proposition
was Rerdell’s alone and had met
with no response from Blackmar.
The argument was interrupted by mutual
consent, and Blackmar was permitted to
testify upon the point at issue. He said
Rerdell’s proposition had been communi
cated to the government, but that they had
refused to have anything to do with it, and
Blackmar made no reply to Rerdell, con
sequently no arrangement such as was
charged by the counsel for the defense was
ever made. Blackmar was cross-examined
by Ingersoll, who also endeavored to have
Boone and Dorsey recalled, but the court
refused to hear anything farther on the
subject, and Wilson proceeded with his
argument.
TERMS—S2.OO A TEAR
GEORGIA RAILROAD CONVENTIO •
A Meeting Which Was Not a Meeting-.
No Quorum of Shares—Election of the
Ohl Ticket—What the President Re
ports.
The annual convention of the Georgia
Riilroad stockholders was to have been
held yesterday morning at the office of the
Augusta Factory, President C. H. Phinizy
called the convention to order, and ap
pointed Messrs. J. H. Alexander, Thomas
Ooskery and C. G. Goodrich as a commit
tee on proxy and election. After exam na
tion the commitee reported the number of
shares represented in person and by proxy,
a total of 17,824. A quorum of the stock
being 21,001 shares, no business could be
transacted except the election o r officers.
The point of the confirmation of the min
utes of the last meeting being raised, it
was decided that not even this could be
done at this meeting. Before taking the
vote the President stated in behalf of Gov.
McDaniel that in view of the public rela
tions recently assumed by that gentleman,
the latter had thought I est to decline a
re-election of director. At the same time
the President stated that Gov. McDaniel
was one of the most valuable members of
the board; that the position of director
could not interfere with his public rela
tion to the company, and he hoped the
stockholders would re-elect him. A direc
tor who resigned his position did not part
with his interest anyhow.
The following ticket was then unani
mously re-elected:
President -C. H. Phinizy.
Directors—M. P. Stovall, Stevens
Thomas, Josiah Sibley, John Davison,
John H. James, J. H. Alexander, H. H.
Hickman, D. N. Speer, James S. Hamilton,
L. M. Hill, George Hillyer, Wm. M.
Reese, Joel A. Billups, H. D. McDaniel,
N. L. Hutchins, Ferdinand Phinizy.
The election was then announced and
the meeting, not being a meeting, could
not even adjourn, but dissolved.
The forty eighth annual report of the
president and directors of the Georgia
Railroad and Banking Company is pre
faced by the following:
Jo the Stockholders'.
The accompanying statements of the
cashier will exhibit the details of the busi
ness of the company for the past year, and
its present financial condition.
By these it will appear that the income
and expenditures have been as follows :
Rental and interests6ol,sß9 57
Net earnings of bank 41,224 77
$62314/34
Paid dividendss43o,soo 00
Lessee on on account previous
management 2,448 80
Old bank circulation redeemed.. 100 85.
Old account charged to profit
and loss 682 56
J. B Lambert, suit for w00d.... 50 00
Interest on bonds this empany.. 142,355 00 *
“ “ Macon A”g. Bd 20,580 00
Injury to persons 1,615 00
Taxes legal and incidontal ex-
penses 16,300 35
Balance 28,181 78
•642,214 3'
During the yea* company has sold "-3
at six per cent, premium one hundred
thousand dollars of six per cent, bonds,
which’will mature January 1, 1922. Fifty
two thousand dollars of the proceeds have
been used to pay the same amount of ma
tured seven per cent, bonds, and the re
mainder is held to meet bonds maturing in
July of this year, and in January, 1884.
In compliance with an agreement enter
ed into with the Central Railroad and
Banking Companv at the time of the joint
purchase of the Western Railroad of Ala
bama, the latter has been incorporated
under the laws of Alabama, with a capital
stock of three million dollars, and script
for one-half that amount—one million five
hundred thousand dollars—issued in name
of and delivered to this company. This
adds nothing to the value of the property,
but simply changes the manner of owner
ship.
The regular business of the bank has
been quite as large as last year, although
the net earnings are smaller, in conse
quence of a large volume of accidental
business transacted during the year end
ing in March, 1882. which did not exist
this year. Respectfully submitted.
C. H. Phinizy.
Then follows the comparative statement
of the earnings of the company for the fis
cal year ending
1882— March 31,
net earnings.. .$477,339 24
1883— March 31,
net earnings... 482,543 99
Income March 31,
1882 $653,986 09
Income March 31,
1883 642,814 34
Decrease, income.' 11,17175
Expenses. March
31, 1882 176,616 85
Expenses March
31, 1883 160,270 35
Decr’se, expenses. 16,376 50
Net increase 5,204 75
Decrease In Income,
Transportation de
partment divid’s
and interest,lßß2s6o2,22l 57
Transportation de
partment divid’s
and interest,lßß3 601,589 57
Banking departm’t,
1882, .... 51,764 52
Banking departm’t,
1883 41,224 77
Total decrease of
income 911,171 75
Decrease in Expenses.
On account personal
irjuries 913,167 15
On account inciden-
tals 1,150 53
On account attor-
ney’s fees and
costs 1,289 27
On account State
and city taxes.... 1,109 55
Increase interest on
bonds 340 00
Total decrease of
expense $16,376 50
m ► • - —■
NOVEL FIRE.
A Gas Stove Explod's Aboard a Moving
Train With Serious Results.
(By Telegraph to the Chronicle.)
Cedae Laks, Ind., May 10.—Last night,
shortly after the train bound for Chicago,
on the Louisville, New Albany and Chica
go Road bad passed this station, a gas
stove in the baggage car exploded, setting
fire to the car. The wind was blowing at
the rate of sixty miles an hour and the
train was running at the rate of thirty.
The clothes of a newsboy in the baggage
car caught fire while he was attempt
ing to suppress the flames and he
jumped from the car. The express
messenger also attempted to extinguish
the flames and received serious injuries.
The bell rope burned so that no communi
cation could be had with the engineer.
When the flames burst from the car, the
engineer saw the trouble and stopped the
train. The car was filled with the passen
gers’ baggage, express and mail matter, all
of which was consumed. There was no
means of extinguishing the fire on the
train and it had to be allowed to burn it
self out. The delay was nearly four hours