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THE FEDERAL UNION,
( CoTnerof Hancock am! Wilkinson streets.)
OPPOSITE TIlFCOlBTnorSF.
ROrCHTOS, IfiSBET & CO., State Printu*.
Tuesday Morning, Eeccmt'er 10,1865.
13AUGUK1L ADDRESS
OF
HON. CHARLES J. JENKINS,
OS TAKING THE OATH OF OFFICE, AS
governor of reorgia.
DECEMBER 14TII, 1S<>5.
Senators and Representatives :
I Am hero, in obedience to the behest of the Peo
ple of Georgia, to assume the duties and responsi
bilities, imposed by the Constitution and laws of
the State, upon their Chief Magistrate Many
of you have, in the past, witnessed like scenes,
when some worthy son of the ancient Common
wealth was inaugurated to the same position pro
vided with abundant resources, garnered in suc
cessive years of prosperity, and charged by their
skillful use, to maintain her prestige and her hon
or, and to press forward her illimitable pmgiess to
still higher achievements in civilization. Then, she
was not inaptly styled the i-MPIKE State of the
South. This significant epithet, accorded, not
arrogated, implied the possession, in large mens
ure. ot the elements and attribute that combine
to produce greatness in a Slate. If extent of terii
tory, salubrity of climate, fecundity of soil, min
eral wealth, manufacturing facilities, and a rapid
B increasing, virtuous, intelligent and enterpri
sing popula'ion vigorously improving these phytf-
j ical advantages, he reliable indicia, Georgia did
! no violence to truth in modestly accepting the
! distinction.
But war—the reproach of christain civilization
TllC Legislature is soon to bei—the despoilcr of the noblest monuments uf hu
man progress, has swept over her mountains and
her plains, desolated her cities and her fields,
wasted her accumulated wealth, destroyed the
labor system whence it sprung, immolated thou
sands of her strong men and her brave youths,
draped in mourning her matrons and her maidens,
and caused the crest she erst wore so proudly, to
droop in temporary despondency. All honor to
her heroic dead, and sympathy immeasurable for
the gentler sex, who bedew their memories with
the tears of affection.
These depressing reflections are indulged in no
spirit of reproach or repining. Such mischievous
pastime can heal no wounds—repair no injuries
I sketch Georgia as she was, and as she is; be
cause. from her abject present, her past must he
reproduced and excelled in the future. This day.
the mighty work of re-production begins Its in
ception, so f*r as depends upon goverinental agen-
ey, is uevolved upon 11s, and it were well that
we look the herculean task steadily in the face.
I advert to the desolation that now broods over
our beloved State, for the furthei purpose of iin
pressing upon a 6t)ifeiing and expectant c onstitu-
ency the peculiar embarrasments that beset the
services they demand of us. Whilst they hope
yet again to see “the wilderness and the solitary
place made glad for them, aud the desert rejoice
and blossom as the rose,” let them remember that
till this is the work of time. Let them bear in
mind, moreover, that whilst it is the duty ot Gov
ernment to protect and foster individual enter
piise, that is itself (lie great reproductive agent
which must lay under contribution, for tbe general
weal, the forest and
THE FEDERAL UNION
Is as cheap a paper as there is in the
State.
convened, and the Proprietors of the
Federal Union being Printers to the
next General Assembly, can furnish
its readers with important bills and
acts in advance of any other paper ii
the State.
TERMS.
Weekly 1 year, S3.00
6 months, 1.50
4 “ 1.00
Georgia. How to secure the latter, in the post
tivo enjoyment of tbe freedom with which they
have beeu suddenly invested, with the least poa
sible detriment to both, is a problem full of per
plexity—tasking ail tbe energies of astute, up
right intellect. It is believed that tbe victors in
the war, out of which the change has been
wrought, aud who took the initiative of the pro
cess, have realized, in full force, its intrinsic dif-
fioalties. Its solution has been already partially,
and ere long will possibly be fully devolved upon
the States more immediately interested, and better
ter qualified for the work, by reason of that greater
amiliarity with the characteristic traits of the ne-
once more put in operation—public aud piivate
enterpriea aroused from their long slumber—edu
caiiotiui institutions reopened—our sacred temples
aud our altars with their holy ministrations fre
quented as of yore, and the blessing of Almighty
God overspreading aud vivifying all earnest effort,
Georgia will illustrate the teachings of adversity
by speedily achieving an enlarged prosperity.
Senators and Representatives, I tremble in view
of the part assigned me in this work of renovation,
and but for a steadfast reliance upon the source
of all wisdom and all power, I would this moment
relinquish the attempt. I can promise you, and
through you our noble people, naught but entire
gro, and with the employments in which he has ' devotion to the public interest, and faithful effort
been trained, aud to which his steady adherence
should be encouraged. The transition from ala
very to freedom of a large class, is not a novel
one in American history. In several of the States
to perforin the high obligation I am about to as
some. In your appointed cooperation, I find a
stay for irty own weakness. The fundamental
law makes us co-laborers, and let ns understand
it has been effected without exterior intervention, j in the beginning, that mutual distrust, producing
by s process*so gradual that no shock has been j discordant counsels, will assuredly render nugaio-
feit in the labor system—no frenzied impulse im i ry otir whole service, and disappoint the just ex
parted to the liberated class. Upon us, it has pectations of a confiding people. Perfect i-gree-
The Proprietors of the Ff.DFRAI. Union
hereby return their thanks to thoir friends in the
Legislature who so kindly attempted to elect them
Public Printer. All wo have to sa f V is, “better
luck next time."
The Inangnrnlion.
This public ceremony was more than usually
interesting on account of the surrounding circum
stances, and especially on account of the novel
attitude of the State towards the Federal Govern
ment.
At 12 M. the Governor elect entered the Hall
of the House of Representatives, with the Pro
visional Governor, accompanied by Judges of the
Superior Courts. State House officers, and distin
guished visitors at the capital. Mr. Jenkins took
his seat on the right of the Provisional Governor
After a few moments, he arose and addressed the
audience. It partook more of the character of a
message, than an Inaugural Address, and of ne
cessity so—because the Governor had not an op
portunity at the opening of the present session
of tbe Legislature to cotnmunicato his views to
the Senators and Representatives of the people.
The day was cold, raw and rainy, and there
was not the usual display of gallantry, chivalry
and beauty ; hut a more solemn ceremony
never witnessed in that Hall.
The address of Gov. Jenkins was delivered in
his usual impressive manner, and with the graces
of oratory so characteristic of the man.
The large audience was respectful and attentive,
and many eyes were moistened by the touching
eloquence and noble sentiments of the speaker.
come like the sudden upheaving, the terrific
trembling, and the destructive eugulphing ot the
earthquake, in volcanic localities. But however
effected, and by whatever embarrassments encum
bered. the fact is accomplished—unalterably fix
ed. The realization tbat it is so. is tbe first step
towards the adjustment of a new system, and that
[ am persuaded, is, in its vast magnitude, its tro
mendotis consequences, clearly impn^seu upon {
the Southern mind. |
Any reference iu detail to the action demanded !
by tbe crisis, would he inappropriate to this or- j
casiou.aud is rendered unnecessary by the pru-1
dent forecast of the Convention recently raid, en- j
trusting to five gentlemen, equally distinguished i
meot in the two departments, dntire coincidence
of opinion is not ro lie hoped. Toleration of differ
ence on particular points w ill promote general fcar
tnony and co operation. Intolerence will be the
forerunner ot misrule' In this view or our rela
tions I tender you, in advance, my confidence,
invoke ) ours in return, and anticipating a cordis
reciprocity I have only to add Got) HELP l'8 Al.l.
I am reaefy- to take the oath of office
IIW ♦ —
GEORGIA LEGISLATURE.
The Senate met at 10 o’clock A. M., lion. Wil-'
for ability, experience and benevolence, the work ! j iam Gihsou, President in the chair.
. the the soil ami the
plough, the mine and the forge, the water-fail and
the loom, the locomotive that annihilates space,
and the steam that hisses at the burthens with
which men seem to task its latent power.
1 lien, Senators and Representatives, fully ap
preciating the difficulties that encompass us, J has been praiseworthy, beyond all rational expectation,
modestly estimating our ability to surmount them, Tell me not of mriaiiee* of insubordination as a slave,
relying upon the patient indulgence aud just iudg' j an ^ °f indecorum as a frfeedman, that have transpired
ment of a magnanimous constituency and above 5n cer,aln localities, or characterised particular iudi
of preparing-and digesting for your consideration,
a system or codo of laws, adapted to the exigen
cies of the new situation. In it you may find val
uable aid, and I commend it to your serious con
sideration
At this time I propose only a reference to prom
inent points, demanding attention, and general
principles which should govern our action.
Ami first, I present to you n well merited plea
in behalfpf the emancipated African.
Hitherto the faithful bondsman of the race,
from wlio.so personal dominion he has just beeu
disenthralled, but upon wbose benignity and jus
tice he still depends for protection and advance
ment. he stands before you au object of peculiar
interest Happy in the past bondage, which light
ly taxed his physical energies, abundantly sup
plied his wants, as well in infancy and old age as
in vigorous manhood—as well in sickness as in
health—and which leaves him at its close, im
measurably elevated above the cotemporary no
live of Africa, descended from the same ances
try, ho looks anxiously to his future, and feel*
that it is still immeasurably in the hands of tho
late proprietary race.
It is undeniably true that during all the years ot his
enslavement, he has been marvelously quiet, profound
ly content with his condition. And what.shall be said
• if his deportment during the last half decade of sad
memories ? Whilst you* etrong men were in the tented
field, far away from unprotected wives and children,
he cultivated their lands, tended their households, and
rendered all servile observances, as when surrounded
by the usual controlling agencies And since th/ fiat
of emancipation, which he neither forced, nor implor
ed, although sometimes unsettled in his purposes, and
inconstant in his service by contract, (the natural
results of a transition so sudden arid so thorough) I
take you all to witness, that, in the main, his conduit
aguacimous constituency; aud, above
all, trusting to a favoring Providence, let us ear
nestly address ourselves to the work before us,
unappaled by ils magnitude.
In the brief survey, appropriate to this occasion,
of the field of operation upon which we are enter-
nig. we ate ieo to consider,our Federal re
lations. and secondly, our borne interests. The
was j Constitution of the United States defines the for-
i mer, and the Constitution ot the State of Georgia
indicates our dufy concerning the latter. In these
two great charters of liberty, there is uj inber
ent cause of conflict. As. according to Republi .
can theory, all government is but popular agency; j age
so those instruments consttued’ together, present '
to the mind of the enquirer, a clear, satisfactory
division between the governments thev severally
vidtiala. These are exceptional eases; the genera
rule being quite otherwise. Do our own race render
unvarying obedience to the mandates of Law 7 Are
our own offspring. through the years of minority, al
ways subordinate to parental authority 1 Shall then
the less cultivated African be held to a *uicter accoun
‘ability or be judged by
rectitude 1
Teil me not the race is ungrateful. The assertion
is against the truth of tradition and expetience. I here
Prayer by Rev. S. E. Brooks.
Tbe journal of the preceding day was read and*
approved.
On the Cali of Senatorial districts. Mr. Jas. A.
W. Johnson, of the 43J district, introduced a
hill to incorporate the Chattahooche Mining
Company.
Mr. Kenan, of the 2bth district, introduced a
bill for the pardon of John W. Martin, of Haber
sham now confined iu the Penitentiary for the
critno of murder, •
Mr McDaniel, of the 37th district, offered a
joint resolution fixing the salaries of State House
officers- The salaries are fixed $21100 each.
The resolution wns afterwards withdrawn.
Mr C H Smith, of the 42d district offered a
joint resolution to consolidate several of the com-
mitt, es of the House and Senate. Carried.
Mr. Turner, of the 3lith district, introduced a
hill abolishing the Slate Penitentiary.
On motion, of Mr. Moore, the Judiciary, were
allowed to employ a clerk.
Mr. Brown, of the 19th district, off-red a bill to
prescribe the mode for the collection of debts and
for the relief ot the people.
The Senate then took up the bills for a third
reading.
The Bill to open the courts to freedmen, an 5
to r.-gule their testimony in the same Passed.
The Private Secretary of the Provisional Gov
ernor. L. H. Briscoe, Ilsq., announced the fol
lowing message from his Excellency James John
son.
Exr.eirrivi Office, i
1’iovisional Gov't, of Ga..
Mtlledgeville, D-c. ‘J. lS(i5. )
Gentlemen of the Senate •
and House of Re.pres' ntatives :
I have the plepsure to transmit herewith a copy
of a telegram, received on last evening, from his
excellency, the President of the United States.
(SignedJ J. Johnson, Gov
(COPY telegram )
Washington, Dec 8, 1805.
COXGREMfOlUL DERATE,
We find in the New York Times »f the 5th the
following report ot the debate in the House ol
Representatives on the question of placiug the
names of Southern members on the roll:
When the State of Tennessee was reached, Mr.
Maynard,’of that State, holding in his haud a pa
per desired to make a remark, but the Cleik oh
jected saying there could be no interruption of the
call.
Mr. Maynard—Does the Clerk decline 7
1 he Clerk—I do.
The calling of the roll of members hrving been
completed. Mr. Maynard again rose^but was over
ruled by the Clerk.
It was then announced that 175 members had
answered to their names.
Mr. Morrell, of Vermont, (Union,) moved that
the House now proceed to the eleeffon of a Spea
ker.
Mr. Maynard before that was done wished to
say a few words.
Mr Stephens called him to order.
The Clerk informed Mr. Maynard that ho could
not recognize any gentleman whose name was nut
on the roll.
Mr. Brooks, of New York. (Dem ,) hoped the
I j motion would not prevail until it was settled who
’ ] were members of the House, and w hether the
] gentleman from Tennessee, who held his creden-
j rials in his hand, was entitled to be heard. He
; trusted the House would not proceed In any revo-
I ltifionary strp ik * this without hearing from Ten-
|nrssee; for ii Tennessee is nut in the Union and
| is not a loyal Slate, hut her citizens arc aliens and
foreigners, by what right does the President of
I the United States occupy his place in the White
House 7 He repeated he trusted the gentleman
would have the privilege to be heard, for if the
precedent now proposed be established, the Clerk
would, in effect, give law to the House merely
by arbitrary will, and thus make himself omnipo
tent. •
Mr. Wentworth, of Illinois, (Union,) called the
gentleman to order.
The Clerk said tbe gentleman was proceeding
in order.
Mr. Brooks responded : When the gentleman
knows me better in the House, he will always find
that I proceed in order. We ought to know who
have a right to vote before we proceed with the
organization. If the gentleman fMr. Maynard)
is not from a State in the Union, what man is loy
al ? During the darkest period of the war. while
he was an exile from Tennessee, I heard his elo
quent voice on the St. Lawrence, urging my State
to discharge its whole duty to the country; and
here an honorable gentlemen who will not permit
him to be heard, though be holds in his hand a
certificate from the Governor of Tennessee.
Neittier has the Cletk of t he House read tho names
of members from Virginia—I mean old. and not
Western Virginia, over which Gov, Peirpont has
pr^ided, and still presides, to which position he
was elected during the war, and whose loyalty
is unquestioned. By what right has the Virginia
delegation been excluded 7 I want the Clerk to
tell me. He has given no reason for it. I
will yield the floor to enable him to answer the
question.
The Clerk replied : If it i.s the desire of
House I will give the reasons.
Mr. Stevens, of Pennsylvania, (Union.) in
chair—The House know it all and don t waut
reasons.
The Clerk said what he had done was in view
of his duty, anJ he was willing to let the record
stand.
Mr. Brooks, resuming, said it was known to
some, but not to all, that the State of Louisiana
OFFICE SUP'T. WESTERN A ATLANTipT^
Atlanta Ga. j> kc K.
To His Excellency, JAM ES JOHNSON,
Governor of Georgia ■
Sir : —In compliance with the lews of th
herewith transmit to your Excellency a st n ^ 1
the condition and operations of the WestT Mei,t of
tic Rail Road, since the *23th day of Sent,. ! j*,‘H !an '
the day on which it was restored to the State fri*»
gia and receipted to the St ite ..f Georgia ' " r -
ed for by me, under an order from Mnj. <j,., .i^'Pb
H. Thomas,commanding the Miiitaiy Division V T °'
nessee, embracing the department of Georg-* ° ^ Ln '
It would perhaps haVe been more 6atisi act •
have presented the operations of the mad u °P" lo
first of the present month; bat the returns tn tul * 10
different agencies on the line could not b- 11 , n ," rn *1?®
time to embrace them |in this report. ~ urefi in
1 have therefore given below the income and
sea of the road from the 25th September to tl,
November, embracing a period of thirty-six da
Grow Earnings, .... '
Expenses, - - - - - *
Not income,
* I.5J
U 2(1,71^
From the above statement it wili be seeu tl
nett earnings of the road have been $120 ,
the first thirty-six days of its operations subjet/'*
charges due the East Tennessee and Georgia ft i
Road for the useot six miles of road from tl..;,.
near Chattanooga. tJunc '*»
This portion of the State Rond was destroyed i •
tho War, and was not rebuilt by the United State!, 11 "' 11 ®
The r->ad when received wns in a destitute •<' j-
tion. The cars and Engines, had been used, inan > - t
them as long as safety would admit; and were °‘
Hd.smne in Virginia,South Carolina, amldY-'.., , ( luer '
tions of Georgia. ‘ ru,t
These cars and Engines have been collected « f
as possible, And others will be returned a* MH)n 9 f . ar
Kail Roads are completed, over which iln-y vvi'rV .
on their return to this place. * ‘ c a?8
There were purchased for the use of this road f r
the U. S. eight locomotives Engines, about one lin m
dred and forty box cares, and about forty-five Hat cars!
also, three stationary Engines, for putnpii gwiOcr a ?d
running the machinery in the Car shop, purchased 1 y
the road from tho IT. S- which was erected on u,,.
the
his
the
j institute, of all the powers necessary to'the flublic tbat th P' , m< 7,1° We “i T,1 ^ ir „ ri " ht of P erson
! oxigencies. Yet we are admonished by history, | y o " e ^‘ r ''
I and of
Tun President’s Message—We give up | written in blood, that conflict has arisen in the
much of our space to dav to this important public i past. Ori
document. W r e put it in large type, and for
our aged readers will thank us.
Suites or 1 errstoric*.
President Johnson with great force and clearness | can Stales from the remainder. Memories of [ j iitieal eonalitv
argues the right of the Southern States to represents- common sufferings, and common triumphs, and j “Vu^re are^iry pseudo philanthropists who are in
tion in Congress. Between him and the Radical ma-' 1
jorityin Congress there is an irrepressible conflict —
One or the other mint succumb, and we fear that the
President lyill not trinmph. lie tins the power if ho
would use it with sternness, to bring the destructives
to his terms: but he also knows their power, and
dreads the conflict. Yet we cannot see now the fight
can be postponed or avoided. The issue has been
boldly made by the Radical caucus, under the lend of | violence; would tbat we could stamp it with the
Sumner and Stevens, and met by the President in his
message to Congress. In that message the President
James Johnson, Prov Gov.—Your dispatch re
ceived the fitti inst- Permit me to congratulate
higher standard of moral! you and the Legislature on their action in adop
ting and ratifying the amendment to the Const?
tution of the United Slates abolishing slavery.
(Signed) Andrew Johnson,
President U S.
Bill to change the time of holding the Court of
Ordinary of Tatnall county.—Passed.
Bill to incorporate the Georgia and Alabama
Coal and Oil Mining and Manufacturing Co. Re
ferred to the Judiciary Committee.
Bill to authorize the Mayor and City Council of
Rome to raise the retail license, aud to prohibtt
- ... . „ the erection of wooden buildings on certain
they may n-ahze their freedom, and its benefits. | §treets of th ci Ryf erre d to the Judiciary
if it. they should be encouraged anustimulated to I p ... J J
declare that in my judgment, their fidelity in the pasi.
and thpir decorum under the distracting influences of
the present, an; without n parallel iu history, and estab-
'ish for them a strong claim upon our favoring patrou
As the governing class, individually and collect
ively, we owe them unbounded kindness, thorough
protection, incentives, by moral suasion, bv atipeals to
their interest, and by just legal restraint, to do right.
anticipations of an exalted destiny, within the ciined to infuse into their minds this unfriendly delu
reach of a united, hut unattainable by a divided j sion.or to preach to us the duty of entering upon this
people, alike lost their power over men’s minds. 1 levelling proe-e*, let them open their mission by point-
tire same was recommitted to the Judiciary Com
mittee.
House resolution consolidating Financa Com-
The desire for .triumph in the strife thus engen
dered on both sides, speciously assumed tbi guise
of patriotism and inspired men using a common
•diibboleth with mutual aversion. Five years
since, reason abandoned, and the sword assumed
the arbitrament. We open not C. at record of
makes but one demand of the States l«te in rebellion, I
in order that they may be entitled to representation in
Congress: that is, that their sevetril Legislatures,
adopt tbe'Conetitutional amenilmest. abolishing sla
very. This done,the President save, the States must
be represented in Congress. Georgia 1ms done this,
and it remains for the President to open the doors of
Congress to our Representatives and Senators'. Con
gress will try to keep us in a sort of Military, Tenito-
liu! condition, until we do every act of peuunnee and
humiliation, they may see proper to put upon us. The
President will interpose his strong arm to save us front
She Goths. That he may be able to exert lira power,
successfully, is the prayer of every good man in the
Christian world.
At present we occupy an anomalous position. We
are neither States, nor Territories. We are somewhat
in the fix of the iittle boy, who one day went to his
mother and asked her if lie was a boy or a gal7 His
sister had told him he was a boy, but his father said
he was a gal. Are we a State or Territory 7 A boy,
or gel 7
ing to examples. Assuredly, there is not one to be
found ber&atli tne broad expanse of onr Constitution j
The necessity of subordination and dependence i
should be riveted on their convictions. Such degree!
of legal restraint as maybe requisite to this euu, is {
enforced upon us hv a sudden change of relation, origi-1
uate.d neither by them nor by up ; and. happily for till
I , - r -- . parties, it need not conflict with the unvarying obsef-
seal of oblivion. Now, the wager ef battle is vance of the law of kindness, which felicitate* inter-
over, the award is against us. as parties to the is- ! course between equcls nnd causes the inferior to
sue. Our w hole people have risen up and acceu j recognize in his superior a benefactor. No less able
i ted it as bv the will of one man V V I ,lmn *brnifcrly to fiil their accustomed department* of
pro
land belonging to the Stale at Chattanooga. Kveiy
shop belonging to the Road having been destroyed it
was necessary to make the purchase to do the nee,;
sarv repairs to keep up the rolling stock. In
to the above there was also purchased from the C s
a large amovnt of Rail Ronci supplies, and tire tone!
ment houses in Chattanooga, in which to board and
lodge employees of the Road. These five houses
the sum of $1.040,00—are new and well suited fm said
purposes,. As soon as the road was received
sals to rebrnid Howe Truss bridges were issued and the
same put under contract. Eight of the most important
bridges were to he completed by the fifteenth of this
month, ami first of January next. The contractors
have been delayed in the woik lor want of mills of
capacity to saw or'dge lumber, hut are using every
energy to perforin the work, and seem confident of
their ability to have them up before the winter freshets
begin.
It is hoped the earnings of the Road will pav for
building the bridges, bur a large amount .of iron’ wi'l
be required to replace that which is old, and burnt
and crooked, and otherwise injured. And also iron
sufficient to relay the road from the junction to Chat
tanooga. being a distance of eight miles, on which (lie
iron has been torn up and removed by tho U. ti. mili
tary authorities. Tin's will require an mjtlay of money
which should i»e borrowed, so as not to interfere with
the finances of the Road until the budges are paid
The expeuses of working the road will increase, in
consequence of the large number of ties, and amount
of wood now being put on the road, as wi 1 increase in
the number of guards and watchmen to protect the
property and merchandise shipped over the road
ugainst a host of thieves and rubbers, who infest the
road its entire length.
In addition to tin's I have been compelled to increase
the wages of agents'and employees, in consequence
of the enhanced price of provisions and reut ot houses.
By the act of Congress parsed the 4th July, 1361
the internal revenue tax on the earnings of this rofiil’
was here last Congress by permission of tbe gen- a 0 well as on cars, engines, water tanks, &c., will, if
levied and collected, amount to seventy-five thousand
lollars per annum.
I have given the subject ranch consideration and
have come to the condition that the Western & At
lantic Rail Road being exclusively the property of tha
State, is qot subject to taxation under said act.
I have therefore prepared an argument and submit-
ttM it to the Kurunue Assessor ami also forward a copy
of the same to the Commissioner of Internal Revenue
at Washington City for consideration. And should the
Commissioner determine to have the tax assessed and
paid on the same, then it would be advisable that such
action, by testing ihe validity ot the act, imposing and
collecting-such taxes.
In consequence of the wont of means, I have not
had the depots on the road rebuilt, except at Atlanta
the walls of which have been repaired, anu are new
being covet ed, and will soon be readv for use.
1 have also iu process of creation at the same i,liter,
a Machine Shop, to repair engines, Ac., th building of
which is indispensable to the service of the road.
The culvert at \ iuing’s Station, built at immense ex
pense was blown up nnd rendered unsafe, by tha
federal /criny, and is now being repaired ot consider
able cost.
Since my appointment to office. I have used every
effort to make tbe road self-sustaining as far us possi
ble ; and if it could have tbe use of two hundred
thousand dollars, for two years to purchase iren, 't
Funny Mistakes—The Journal & Messen
ger notices a very funny mistake of the N. York
Journal of Commerce, in placing the words,
‘•The Thirty ninth Congress’’ in a story fiom
Paris!
In the same number of the Journal & Messen
ger, its printer made a f«r more ludicrous mistake,
in placing a Mctalie Burial case at the head of an
advertisement offering $50 reward for 2 Mules!
Too .Ylnrfa Hurry.
There were several hills and resolutions passed
by both Houses of the Legislature, which did not.
reach the Governor on account of neglect of
duty on the part of some officer of the House of
Representatives.
l’wo of these-^>ne a hill in reference to our
selves—Advancing ils money—and at least one
other, a resolution in reference to the Executive
Mansion- -providing for refitting the Mansion—
did not reach the Governor.
Somebody is greatly at fault for this unpar
alleled neglect of duty. WHO IS IT 7
Adjournment.—Both Houses of the Georgia
Legislature adjrurned on the 15th inst., until tho
15th day of January, 1806. Only four or five
bills passed, and approved by the Governor: One
of these was the bill in reference to negro testi
mony.
— ■ —i
Klrctioun by tbe I.cginlnlure.
On Friday last the General Assembly elected
the following State House officers:
Secretary of State, N. C. Barnett. *
Comptroller General, Col. Burrs.
Treasurer, John Jones.
_ Burke of Macon, Ga., was elected
Tubhc Printer for the Session of the Legislature
commencing Nov. t s t. I860.
\\ hat valor failed to achieve, wisdom has
promptly renounced; and truth herself has sot |
her signet to the attestation of the deed
In the recent remodeling of their Constitution,
the People of Georgia have acknowledged the
Constituiiou. constitutional laws, and treaties of
the l nited States, as their Supreme lair. This
rueaus something more than a yielding of the con
test, or an overiure for restoration. It implies fi
deiity to the supremo law in all future lcgisla-
t.ve, executive, and judicial action, and in all fu
ture movements of the People en masse. It im
plies a recognition ot duty to, and interest in,
the wholeeouotty, as weil as to, and in the State
, of Georgia. It is of course predicated upon a ro-
I ciprocal obligation on tiie part of those to whom
this pledge is renewed The institution of sla
very—the fruittul source of discord in
has been effectually era
and political systems. It can n
Yhc harmonv of our national deliberations with
out which, the Federal Union must be a curse in
stead of a hi ssing. It the who’e People, repress
jiugftl! promptings ol sectional feulirjF. and inter-
cst, will faithfully observe, ani obejtbe Federal
Constitution, coming event.-; may lift the veil
which now covers recent demonstrations of Prov
idence and disclose to their rectified vision, in
striking contrast, rnin caused by human foliv,
and renovation wrought by Divine wisdom. After
weeping that has endured through a long night
of civil stiife, joy may come in the morning of re
union
! labor, they should be made to realize that this is not
j only compatible with, hut an indispensable condition
of their altered status If won to the practice of hon
esty, sobriety and industry, they will he for u«, the
best iaburing’class, and we, to them, the best employers
tho world can furnish, because of the thorough ac
quaintance between tho classes.
I spoak with reference to the present, nnd the near
future. Were it now divulged, that, in tho change*
to be evolved by time, they aro destined to attain such
advancement that, in their daily intercourse, they shall
look iu the face no superior, all philosophy, other than
Utc-pian—certainly all American philosophy, ns illus
trated by practice—would anticipate for them nnante
cedent translation to other climes. Where I so pre
sumptuous as to predict fir them stuji a olnlngc, both
of condition nnd local habitation, all Southern Ameri
can. voices would unite in one loud acclaim "to mote it
hr." But our duty i* with the present; ond er.compas-
- , . , . sed as it is with difficulties, I say to you, coarogc.Setia-
J.ot discord in tlie past, j ,„ r(l an j Representatives; resolutely, and earnestly
dicated from our social i essay to sunbouut them all. God is merciful! God is
er again disturb j mighty! God in his abounding mercy, anil in tli-plcn-
tiiude'of bis might, ho dispose our fortunes and theirs,
Umt each class shall be to thu other, a blessing, not a
curse.
The public property and State institutions have
suffered much from the_positiye ravages, and the in
Sometime was spent in reading bills a second
time.
Hon B B. Moore was elected President
tem of the Scirate. *
The Senate then an.ljourned till Monday morn
ing 10 o’clock.
HOUSE.
Saturday, D 'c. 9th—After the reading of the
Journal, the clerk announced the Standing Com
mittees of the House. »
The rules having been suspended for the intro
duction ot new matter, the following among ot^r
bills and resolutions were introduced :
A bill to consolidate the offices of Secretary ot
State and Surveyor General, and to fix tho salaty
at $ I6i ft per annum.
A bill to establish the Southern banks of Ameri
ca.
A b : ll to incorporate tbe Dalton Petroleum and
mining company.
A bill to authorize the treasurer to make an
advance payment to tho State Printer of $1000.
A bill to reduce the justices of tho Inferior
court of each county to one Justice. Tho bill
gives to tho presiding justice the same jurisdic
tion as is now accord yd to the Inferior courts
with criminal jurisdiction in ail cases less thr.n a
felony. The justice is to have no salary, but is
entitled to fees .of one^and'two dollars for all pro except where on the record should he presented
cesses anu official papers issued by him. Ho is to principles in accordance with his own. He mov-
tiemau from Pennsylvania (Mr. Stevens,) who
gave his assent to the record, but now Louisiana
is excluded The Republicans then admitted two
members from Louisiana, and now tho Clerk as
sumed the responsibility in excluding the mem
bers elect from that State. Why this incmisis
tency ot action, as well as absurdity !
Mr. Washburne, of Illinois, ( Union) reminded
t 1 e House that on the occasion to which the gen
tleman referted tbe Clerk put the name of the
two Louisiana members on the. rod. They did not
vote for Speaker, and th-* House some lime after
refused to let them be sworn in.
Mr. Brooks—That was after the Speaker was
Chosen.
Mr. Washburne—They were never members.
Mr. Brooks—But they gave their votes for spea
ker without objection from the Republicans. But
the gentleman from Pennsylvania, (Mr. Stevens)
did not want to hear the reasons of tho Clerk.
This was not parliamentary. Tennessee, Louis
iana and Virginia were ail to be excluded without
debate. Were gentlemen afraid to face debate
after passing a resolution in caucus excluding
members trom certain States withont discussion ?
Mr. Stevens—I rise to a point of order It was . -
once held that on the assembling of members, on ! co . * P a T l!le intereet, and discharge the debt at ma
the first day ot the session, no other business was ! Tn Vi'G; *i «* j . , . ,
in order except a motion to organize by the elec- 1 • ? tha - tthe roafi ea "- a Tears, be
tion of officers.
Mr Brooks—I trust the gentleman will not he
impatient. I would say to him, "Strike, but first
heat’’ The action of the Clerk is to be carried
j on without debate. In the whole history of the
country and throughout the revolutionary period,
there is no record of violence more flagrant than
that which is proposed to be visited on the minori
tyofthe House by the exclusion of fifty seven
representatives, and that, too, without debate, j
would ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania at
what period he wi.l introduce the jo nt resolution
which was approved in the Republican caucus 7 1
hope he will inform us.
Voices—Don’t tell. Dont answer him.
Mr. Stevens—Oh ! 1 have no objection to an
swering. It will be introduced by me at the
proper time. [Laughter and applause.]
Mr. Brooks said the gentleman from Peunsyl
vania understood tLe purport of the ancient
maxim, that language was given to us to
conceal our ideas The jgoper time to which th
gentleman alluded was in anticipation of the
Message, in order that tbe gentleman might throw
himseif in opposition to it, to place before the
country a quasi condemnation of the President
He (Brooks? was not the President’s vindicator.
^ We have no space for Proceedings ot the Leg.
islctme, tbe President’s Message, the Governor’s
Inaugural occupying the greater part of oar paper. A
good deal of work was cut ont by tho Legislature,
which will consume much tune on its lCBMomHiuig
Let not our*people yield to discouragement, in
view of the tardy progress of reconstruction, or of
the suspicion and distrus*, so palpably manifest
ed towards them ‘Sustained by conscious recti
tude, let them maintain, with calm and resolute
dignity, the position they have taken, and await
the result A tempest of unsurpassed fur\’ has
swept over the laud. The elements do not sub
side into tlo ir normal quiet, instantaneously with
the lull of the wind, the sleep of the lightning,
and the hush of the thunder. The smoke of an
hundred battles does not vanish in n moment
Hut the atmosphere wiil clear ere long; those who
can not now see how men who recently fought
with such desperation against the United States,
can so soon become its leal citizens, will then
look at us through a rectified medium. It will
occur to them that valor and truth are twin sis
ters, born of magnanimity, whose womb nev'-r
did Dor ever wilt conceive treachery. They will
then remember, and appreciate the historical
tact, that the States now returning never confed
erated against the United Mates until each for
herself had, in open day, and in hearing of all
mankind, declared herseif separated from that
power. And although they will still hold that
a . ct w . ro ^l? ,n principle and void in fact, they will
find io it no taint of duplicity. They will look
m vain through all the sanguinary traces of war,
tor the trad of the sepent. In due time, consist-
encywtll command apnfidence, and sincerity, like
the diamond ot the first water, will assuredly win
its own recognition. Then, our too suspicious
judges will marvel less at our approved fealty,
than at their own tardiness in discerning it.
Be the process of restoration long or short,
when consummated, our attitude will and must
be that of Strict fidelity to the Union, of equality
with our associates, and of dignity sustained by
an inner sense of nuviolated integrity.
Turning onr attention to subjects of State ad
ministration, appertaining more diiectly to the
service npon which we are entering, the mind in
voluntarily pauses npon the charged relation ba-
tw*e«n th* Caucasian nod African races inhabiting
lirect injuries <>/ war. The Penitentiary edifice,
though not entirely destroyed, ims been so far con
sumed by lire as to render it both insecure, and insuffi
cient for the purposes of its erection.
The Wealern and Atlantic Rail Road has been re
stored to the State authorities in a dilapidated condi
tion : its track and bridges, hastily ami inc-utiiciciitly
repaired for temporary use—many of the b-iilditigK,
appurtenant to it,and essential to ii« successful opera
tion destroyed, and the rolling stock reduced far below
the exigencies ot the serv'ce.
• The sources of supplv to the educational interest*,
fostered by the State have been dried up, and new
fountains must be opened to nourish them. The Uni
versity hitherto the nursery of statesmen, jurists, edu
cators, and ministers of religion, founded and endowed
by our forefathers, and recognized by the Convention
recently assembled in this Hail as 'lie foster child of
the .State, has been of necessity closed during the
war.
Although bereft of former immediate resource*,
without fault on their part, tho Trustees, relying on
the strength of their claim upon the State, recognized
by the Convention as the basis of the constitutional
obligation f-uperndded by them, have determined to re
open the institution in January next.
The Asylums for the lunatic, the blind and the deaf
and dumb, those most beneficent charities, are lan
guishing for lack of meau*.
The emancipation of slaves heretofore constituting
a large item ot property, the unquestionable failure of
the Hanks, (with few exceptions,) from cuuses beyond
tneir control; the ut ter worthlessness, or great depre
ciation of many public, corporate and private securi
ties, and various other losses, have materially dimin
ished the subjects of taxhliou.
Even moderate taxation will be feit burthensome bv
our impoverished people. But I doubt not they will
cheerfully bear any imposition necessary to maintain
great public interests, and avoid farther suspension of
valuable institutions and noble charities.
The indebtedness of the State is comparatively very
smell; she lias investment* far exceeding in value its
entire amount, and her other resources though greatly
diminished, are still 1 rge. Her circumstances enjoin
upon her ruler* a at riot and wise economy, which? is al
ways a public virtue, but justify no fueling of despon
dency. There need be no paralysis of the body poli
tic, no shrinking from the maintenance of great pnbiic
charities and educational processes hitherto fostered.
The demoralizing influences of war npon a
considerable portion of our population are easily
discernable by tbe intAlligeut observer, resulting
chiefly from ti.e too great relaxation of legal re
straint. There is, however, a large leaven of vir
tue and intelligence, whose silently redeeming
influence will materially aid tb« ra-establi6hment
of law and order.
Peace restored—the machinery of government
hold his court on the first Monday in each month.
The clerks of the Inferior courts are to continue
in their offices, and a solicitor is to be- elected in.
each county to ha styled the State's attorney,
who, in addition to other fees, is entitled to one
dollar for «aob case tried, and five dollars for each
convictu’ii.
A bill for the relief of Mrs. Greenlief of Pierce
county.
A bill to confer on justices' courts jurisdiction
in all cases of larceny where the amount involved
is more than twenty dollars.
A bill to levy a tax in kind on corn in each
county not to exceed one twentieth nor to be less
than fortieth of the crops; the corn tbits obtained
to be distributed among the families of wounded,
disabled, indigi nt soldiers, or indigent widows
and orphans of deceased soldiere. No such tax
to be levied on producers of corn, whose crops do
not exceed ICO bushels.
A resolution appointing a committee to examine
the Penitentiary property and sell the same.
A resolution authorizing the Treasurer to make
advances of per diem and mileage to officers and
members of the General assembly.
^ A tnessHge was received from tbe Provisional
Governor transmitting tlie following telegram
trom the President of the United States :
Washington. Dec. 8., 18G5.
James Johnson, Provisional Governor :
Your dispatch was received the fifth inst.—Per
mit ine to congrutulate you and the Legislature
on their action jji adopting and ratifying the
amendment to the constitution of the United
States abolishing slavery.
LSigned] Andrew Johnson,
President U. S.
hrtimate cj the Cotton Crop for the Year and of the
Total Amount inthe South.—Neil Bros. Sc Co., an old
find prominent Cotton firm of New Orleans, having
ppent some time in the personal examination of the
cotton crop in the Southern States, have issued a cir
cular report on tho subject. They estimate that iu
May last the old crop on hand amonuted to 1,650,00(1
bales, that the new crop amounts to 1ti0,D0!) bales-,
that the total amount delivered up to the 30th Novem
ber wa* 1,000,000 bales, and they estimate the amouut-
yet to come fonyard at 960,000 bale*. In rcuiid num
bers they make the total Amount of the old and new
cotton crop *2,000,000 to“2,100,000 bales. They estima
ted the quantity totally unfit to spin at not over 100 000
bale*. They put down the number of bales yet to
come from sections tributary to New Orleans, not In
cluding Texas and Arkans.i*, at 270,000 bales.
Gen. Grant, instead of proceeding
westward, as it %as supposed be would,
baa passed up tbe Georgia Railroad en,
route for tfasbrille and Washington.
pnuetp
<*d tbat tbe gentleiMn from Tennessee be allowed
to present his credentials as a member elect from
the Mate of Tennessee, and that his name be p!a
ced upon ibe roll.
Mr Stevens—I rise to the point of order that
the motion is inadmissible, the motion fir the elec
tion of Speaker now in order.
The Clerk ruied tbat was a good point of or
der.
Mr Maynard—I appeal to the gentleman to
listen to me for a few minutes.
Mr. Stevens—I cannot yield to any gentleman
who is not a member of this body.
Mr. Johnson, of Pennsylvania, (Dem,) ob
tained the floor for the purpose, as he said, of ex
plaining, but
Mr. Stevens objected remarking—‘lA man can
not explain anything never spoken.’’
The Clerk reminded Mr. Brooks that he could
not yield the floor if objection was made, nor
could he yield it except for the purpose of explana
tion or debate on pending amendments.
Mr. Brooks replied that he did not regard the
proceeding* as parliamentary, and expressed his
regret that such a dangerous precedent was about
to be established.
Mr Johnson, of Pennsylvania, wished to pro
pound a .question. It related to making up the
roll, which was tho fit st step to organization.
The Clerk held tbat that had no reference to
the election of Speaker, which was, the pending
motion.
Mr. Stevens moved the previous qnestion ou the
motion to proceed to the election of Speaker.
Mr. Johnsoy proposed to submit a motion,
which Cuii;-i take precedence of the motion of his
collegue (Mr. Stevens.) He wished to move that
the name of the gentleman from Tennessee who
holds the credentials be placed npon the roll.
The Clerk decided the motion out of order
Gov. Orr’t Message.— A. special dispatob to the
Charleston News gives the following abstract of Gov.
Orr’s message,
Columbia, Dec. fl.—Message No. 1 of Gov. Orr has
been received. He says that the pe q>le of the .State
are not able to pay taxes, and recommends no appro
priation for schools, citadel or college ; and suggest*
the issue of certificate* of indebtedness ’to tbe amount
of half the taxes. Advocate* a memorial to Congress
to alter the law about the direct tax„and thinks the
Legislature should provide for its payment. Recom
mends a stay law, and a genera! act of incorporation
nnd renewal of State guarantee of railroad bonds
nearly due. Thinks the South Carolina College should
be changed to a University, with a email appropri^ion
for professors, and that the citadel should be made
eelf-eupportiug. Snggeets the appointment of an
agent to collect State property i recomtneuds reorga
nization of District Boards, and provision for an
asylum.
j made to relieve the citizens of that State of the gn at
burthen of taxation, I would respectfully recommend
such policy he adopted, ns will, in the Jiort< st possi
ble time, place it in good condition, with an abundance
of rolling stock, to enable it ro discharge ali ihe de
mands w hich may be made npon it.
The above report is most respectfully submitted to
your consideration.
I ROB.;t. BAUGH,
Superintendent
C-'cnrrnI Price’* Confederate Colony in
itlexics.
Letters have been received iu New York from Gen
era! I rice, dated at Cordova, Mexico, on the fifteenth
of November. Governor Harris, of Temiesse, the
Ilonorab-e Joan Perkins, Jr., of Louisiana, Geueral
tit.eloy, of Missouri, and a great many other officers
and men of tbe late Confederate nrmv, wher • also at
the same place ; the district of Cardovn having been
selected t>y the Impe. ial commissioners ns the seat of
the colony which those gentlemen propose to found
in Mexico. \Ve quote what General Price says about
the lands which have been set apart bv Maximilian for
this colony:
" I hey are about seventy miles from VeraCrnz, and
on the road leading thence to the City of M-xico. This
road ts being rapidly constructed, aud is now in opera
tion to within fifteen miie* of this place, and will be
completed to the town of Cordova within a few months,
and to the City of Mexico within «< wo years. These
lauds are three thousand feet above the level of the
sen and are as fertile as any of the Platte lands.—
*■* 01,0 ' , ,e , ' a ttv purchase, which it the northwest-
eru part of Missouri, comprises the richest lands in
that Mate, and perhaps iu the Union. En. News.]—
, ,t? ' nre unsurptL-sed in the production of com, to-
buoco, coffee, vegetables of every kind, uud all the
tropical fruits. Ihe lands, which he between this ele
vated country and the roast, produce a.- much and as
cotton h.3 the Louisiana IkiiiJs.
W'e are practically as near the markets of New
Irak and New Orleans as the people of Central Mis-
soun are; and the climate is the b.-^t in tbe world,-
I he thermometer never risesabove ninety degrees, nrr
falls below seventy. The water is excellent, and wa
can get ice from the mountains covered with perpetual
snow, which are iu plain sight, and about tbirtv miles
distunt. The Imperial Government has purchased the
lsuus lrmr« the original proprietors, and sells liieui to vs
at one dollar an acre,
“Our colony commences with about thirty Co fed-
erates, all of whom are in high spirits, un<i expect to
make fortunes raising coffee. A gentleman who has
lived here a few years, stdd his last year's < odee nop
for sixteen thousand do lars, It was "produced on fiitr
acres of land. He works only‘ten hand*. He tells
me that his fruit trees can supply his tabic with a dif
ferent variety of fruit each day iu the year. His coffee
plantation, shaded with c-veiv species of fruit tree
laden with fruit, and the walks bordered w.th pin*
apples, is certainly tho most heautifai farin that I have
ever seeD.’’
— ♦ —II
This is the sweetest iittle poem that we have ■
encountered for some time; we publish it for the
benefit of those who may be
K.«»t in the Dark.
Come back ! come back ! for the light wenfoot
When your eyes looked away from my own !
Grieved and weary, 1 wandered abput
Iu the cold and dark alone !
Trying to find my way to your side—
Come, darling, and take my hand!
Once I drew it away in pride
T rbm the tenderest|one in the laud !
Come back!
come back! with the
sweet prime.
With the birds from over the sea!
if ^ * urn m y hce from the golden time,
And my ear frojp its minstrelsy !
r or my passionate soul cries out for the day
t When your heart fell away from mine—
Cries out ior the cap which I pushed away>
Spilling its costly wine ! •
Come ! and your kiss shall kindle again
The passionate bloom on my cheek !
Come! and read in my eyes the pain
That my lips are too proud to speak!
Come! for I lie in the cold without,
Stabbed with agony wild,
AH for yon—and my heart cries ont
Lijce a poor little motherless child !
Spring’s