Newspaper Page Text
Ten dollars per annum.
Five dollars for six months.
Two dollars and fitly cents for three months.
One dollar for four months.
\\ I HKI.V.
Three dollars per annum.
One dollar and fifty cents for site months.
One dollae for four months.
J. W. BURKE A CO.
Georgia Journal & Messenger,
J. W. It) I'.KFi A CO., Proprietors.
A. W. ItKCSi', i
s. UOSi:, ( Kditors.
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC TICKET.
FOR I’KKKIDKYT.
HOBATIO SEYMOUR,
OF SEW YORK.
Km \ ICE FKKHIDKST,
FRANCIS P. BLAIR,
OF MISSOURI.
HT VTE ELKCTOKIL TICKET.
FOR Til F. STATE AT LARGE 1
JOHN 15. (i OR DON, of Fulton.
JOHN T. CLAKKE, of Kandolph.
ALTERNATES 1
W. T. WOFFOKI), of Bartow.
THOS. M. NORWOOD, of Chatham.
FOR TIIE CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS:
Ist District —J. <l. NICHOLS, of Fierce.
Alternate —J. 11. HUNTER, of Brooks.
2d District—CHAßLES T. GOODE, of Sumter.
Alternate- WM O. FLEMING, of Decatur.
3d District —R. J. MOSES, of Muscogee.
Alternate —W. O. TUGGLE, of Troup.
4th District—A. O. BACON, of Bibb.
Alternate—ll. WIMBERLY, of Twiggs.
sth District—J. B. CU M MING, of Richmond.
Alternate —D. M. DuBOSE, of Wilkes.
6th District— H. I*. BELL, of Forsvth.
Alternate -<i. M< MIL LAN, of Habersham
7th District —J. D. WADDELL, of Cobb.
Alternate—V. A. GASKILL, of Fulton.
KIK CONGKEBS,
THOMAS G. LAWSON,
OK PUTNAM COUNTY.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, 1868.
IIIIOWY* “PE UK” PROCLAMATION —
W IIOI.KS \ I.E HLANTIER.
Ah the Radical paper published at Atlanta
does not. now come to this office, we have
not seen in full Brown’s (per Bullock) re
cent insulting and infamously false in
dictment against the people of this State,
which he calls a proclamation. We uu
del-stand, however, that he charges all the
recent outrages committed hy his sable
friends to the white people who denounce
reconstruction as unconstitutional, and
his own bastard government as illegal,
null aud void. He publicly proclaims that
the reason why negroes rape white women,
ami shoot and brain white men, is because
these white men hold the law and the au
thority under which these outrages are
committed as unconstitutional, and so de
clare to their neighbors. The reason why
negroes meet with arms in their hands,
and drill night after night, and resist the
Sheriff and other officers of the law, is
because white editors and speakers write
and speak in opposition to a policy that
not only permits these dangerous proceed
ings, hut actually incites and encourages
them-
This is the sum and substance of the
usurper’s proclamation. Ho adds, it is
true, something about armed organizations
disbanding, and obedience to the laws, but
that amounts to nothing. The gist of the
matter is the arraignment of the Demo
cratic party as the cause of all the deviltry
Bullock’s black allies are daily and night
ly committing, to be used, of course, as a
Radical campaign document at the North.
Bullock don’t want the negroes todisbaud,
or cease their military preparations, aud
he lets them know it by telling them that
the opposition of the Democrats to his
mock government is sufficient excuse for
their having arms in their hands, and be
ing so handy with them in killing white
people.
We regard this so-called proclamation
asnotonly an infamouss’auderupon nine
tenlhs of the respectable people of (J corgi a,
but as ail incendiary document of the most
wicked description. The man who wrote
it, if lie had his just deserts, would be
prosecuted and convicted under tlie law
against publishing matter calculated to
provoke a breach of the peace. He is, to
day, tbt' most wilful and wicked incendia
ry in the Btate, because he has the power,
under cover of his office and its usurped
functions, and by the assistance of the
miserable creatures lie lias bought up with
plunder, to make his plots against the
public peace as nearly successful as is pos
sible
We do not charge the General Assembly,
of course, with any complicity in this plot
as Bullock develops it. They only asked
him to issue the proclamation usual under
such circumstances. They did not know,
of course, what else he would put in it.
They will learn now, we hope, how much
faith can tie put in the man, and be more
chary, hereafter, of inviting him, in the
guise of a Btate paper, professedly in the
interests of peace, to stir up tlie angry
passions he was expected to smother, and
utter an infamous, wanton and inexcusa
ble slander upon the white people of the
Btate. The next time the incendiary
wishes to scatter his firebrands of violence
and falsehood, let him do it of bis own
motion, and not under the specious plea
of an invitation from the representatives
of tlie people.
t>HALL THERE HE \ t'O.NURKSSIONAL EI.EC
' TION THIS FALL I
Yes, we answer, most emphatically.
And if, as we hear, the Democrats iu the
Legislature have determined not to pass a
bill to bring it on this year, we hope they
will reconsider it and make due provision
therefor. For the postponement, not one
good reason has been urged, in our humble
jhagincui. ■ngnitisi ii, many, iwo striae
us with peculiar force.
First. Because there will, in all proba
bility. be a called session of Congress in
March next, and unless a special election
is held, Georgia will not be represented at
all in the House. If a special election is
ordered it will be at a season very incon
venient for farmers Xml their laborers to
turn out. The latter will, most likely
come t«> the polls—the former will not,and
thus our strength will not be fully felt.—
An election iu November would make all
this unnecessary, to say nothing of getting
rid for one year at least, of political excite
ment.
Second. Because the Democrats have
what is commonly known as the “bulge,’
now, on their opponents Next year, par
ticularly if Grant should be elected, the
positiou may be reversed. This year, with
proper advantage taken of the enthusiasm
for Seymour and Blair, and the high and
bouyant spirit and eourageof the people,we
can elect /it* at least of the seven Congress
men, without any extra effort. Next year
we might not be so successful. The mo
uientum to win has been supplied, ready
made, to our hands, this fall. Next year
its manufacture may be more problemati
cal. , , .
By all means let us have the election in
November, and be done with it.
Butts Countv Aii Bight. 1 rom a
letter received at this office
from Indian Springs, and dated the loth
lust., we make the following extract.
“Corn crops in Butts about an average
better than our farmers expected in mid
summer.’ Democracy rising uud tkeCot
ton owning. The boll-worm and Radi
calism Played out. Hooti be able to gather
heaps of Corn, bales of Cotton, and four j
hundred majority forbeymouraud Blair.
From the Atlanta Constitution.
GEORGIA LEGISLATURE.
SENATE.
Thursday, September 10,1868.
The Senate met at 9 o’clock. The Presi
dent in tlie Chair.
Prayer by Senator Griffin (21st.)
The Journal was read and approved.
Mr. BOWERS, from tlie Committee on
Internal Improvements, presented a mi
nority report adversely to btate aid bffng
extended to the Air Line Railroad.
Mr. MERKELL asked the suspension
of the rules for tlie purpose of introducing
a resolution looking to a final adjourn
ment.
In the course of some remarks on the
subject lie expressed fears that as the ne
groes had been declared ine'iglble, tlie
next thing in order would be tbe expul
sion of carpet-baggers and scalawags.
The Senate refused to suspend tlie rules.
The Senate then proceeded to the read
ing of House hills for tlie second time.
A message was received from his Excel
lency, stating ttiat tie had signed a resolu
tion requesting tlie Executive to forbid the
assembling of unauthorized armed bodies
of men for drilling and other purposes.
The rules were suspended for the lirst
reading of House bill, extending State aid
to the Air Line Railroad.
A message was received from the House
informing tbe Senate that that body had
adopted a resolution tc authorize the late
Treasurer to pay to the members and offi
cers of the General Assembly all the money
in the treasury. Said payment to con
tinue up to dateof adjournment, and if not
a sufficiency at that time, to issue scrip in
lieu thereof.
The resolution was taken up.
Mr. HARRIS moved to disagree.
Mr. BURNS moved that the Senate con
cur.
Mr. MERRELL stated that since the
revolutionary action of tlie House, Georgia
Bonds had depreciated 2 per cent.
Mr. BURNS—I beg your pardon. Those
very measures of the House, which you
style “revolutionary” have put Georgia
Bonds, in New York, above par. I move
to lay the resolution on the table for the
present, until the reports of the late (?)
Treasurer and Comptroller General have
been received.
Mr. WINN said it would be robbery to
put a hand in the Treasury under the res
olution of tlie House.
I came here as a reconstruction Demo
crat and I believe that this is a legitimate
body.
Mr. WOOTEN mode some very sensi
ble remarks and took ground that the
present government was upon us and it
should be sustained while it lasts.
[He gave Merrell thunder.]
The resolution was laid on the table.
A motion to adjourn was lost.
The rules were suspended and a resolu
tion was adopted prohibiting the intro
duction of new matter after the 20tli Sep
tember, except by consent of the Senate.
The Senate adjourned.
IIOWBE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Thursday, Sept. 10,1868.
The House met pursuant to adjourn
ment.
Prayer by Rev Mr. Crumley.
Journal read and approved.
Mr. HUDSON moved to reconsider so
much of the proceedings of yesterday as
relates to the resolution returning a por
tion of the Governor’s message, introduced
by Mr. Duncan.
Mr. PHILLIPS did not approve of tbe
message of the Governor But thought as
lie was Governor of our State it was prop
er that we should treat him with respect.
Asked that the message he referred to a
select committee to report upon it.
Mr. DUNCAN hoped that the ruotiou
would not prevail, aud called the previous
question.
The vote was taken on the motion to
reconsider and tlie motion lost.
Mr. CALDWELL asked to record his
vote against tlie resolution as he was ab
sent yesterday.
He also presented a protest from the ne
groes recently ousted.
Mr. PHILLIPS objected to tbe protest,
as it was a misrepresentation of the facts.
They were not expelled, but we decided
against tlie eligibility. llad they re
mained after the House had declared them
1 ineligible, then they would. have been
•guilty of a crime, and this House would
have expelled them. Expulsion applies
to criminal offences only. They were
guilty of no offence, but ineligible under
tlie Constitution and the law.
Mr. CALDWELL spokeiu favorof per
mitting the protest being put on the min
utes of the House.
Mr. RAW LB. They were never mem
bers, anil have no riirtit to enter a protest.
Mr. CRAWFORD. Even if they were
members they have no right to spread
upon the minutes facts that ilnl not exist.
Mr. O’NEAL spoke in favorof receiving
the protest.
Mr. FLOURNOY asked if he (Mr.
O’Neal) thought the charge made that an
“outrage had been perpetrated, &c.,” was
true.
Mr. O’NEAL. I have not time, aud it
would be out of order to discuss that ques
tion. Thought it was not magnanimous to
not permit the protest. It was quibbling
refuse.
Mr. CRAWFORD. You charged tbe
action of turning out the negroes against
our side of the House. Wliat become of
tlie sixty-five men of your party that
dodged the question ?
Mr. O’NEAL. Could not answer for
others. Ho did not vote because be
thought they were uot eligible uuder the
law r .
Mr. SCOTT. I would ask the gentleman
if he, before his election, did not assure
his white constituency that, in his judg
ment, the negroes were ineligible under
the Constitution and laws to seats on this
tloor, and if lie, as a lawyer, did not have
access to the Constitution and the Code
before giving that opinion, and if it was
not of sufficient importance to require se
rious investigation before giviug it, and if
that opinion, given under the circum
stances, did not commit him to that doc
trine ?
Mr. O’NEAL said he had given his opin
ion that they were ineligible.
Mr. FLOURNOY was perfectly willing
to permit a protest that embodied the facts,
and was in respectful language.
Mr. RAW Lb called the previous ques
tion on tlie motion to lay on the table.
Motion prevailed, and the protest was laid
on the table.
The committee appointed to investigate
the Treasury reported $11,850.00 in the
Treasury.
botne discussion eusued about the pay.
Motion to make the per diem $7. Motion
did not prevail.
Mr. HUDSON introduced a resolution
to provide for the payment of members,
which was adopter! aud transmitted to the
Seuate.
Mr. WILSON. A resolution to permit
the members claiming seats from the
counties of Clark, Mclntosh, Macon aud
Liberty, to offer evidence of their right to
Rules suspended to permit the following
bill to be introduced :
Mr. BELL. A bill to authorize the
Governor to borrow money to pay the
members of the General Assembly.' Bill
read first time.
A motion to suspend the rules generally
was made and lost.
Mr. RAWLS, (on motion, rules sus
pended,) introduced a bill to provide the
manuer of collection of fees by the Solici
tor of the Eastern Circuit.
On motion of Mr. HARPER the rules
were suspended aud a resolution intro
duced to provide for the payment of the
members who were appointed on a com
mittee to visit Public Buildings, etc., who
had paid their own expenses. Resolution
adopted.
On motion of Mr. LEE, rules suspended
and a resolution introduced to examine
claims of Colleges, etc. Resolution adopt
ed.
CHAIRMAN COMMITTEE on Lu
natic Asylum submitted a report, and
moved that two hundred copies be printed.
Motion adopted.
BII.LS ON THIRD READING.
A bill to alter and amend the usury laws
of this State. [The Seuate bill.]
Mr. DUNCAN was in favor of the pass
age of the bill. Hoped the bill would pass.
Mr. LANE was opposed to the passage
of the bill, because it places the people in
the power of the capitalists.
Mr. CALDWELL was opposed to the
bill, because it was a species of class legis
tion.
Mr. CRAWFORD thought it was class
legislation to pass laws to regulate the
price of money. Was in favor of the pas
sage of the bill.
Mr. O’NEAL was opposed to the bill.
Mr. HALL was a free trade man. Every
law restricting the price of any article in
creases its value. He spoke in favor of
the bill.
Mr. WILLIAMS, of Morgau, was iu
favor of the bill.
Mr. HUDSON saw no necessity for a
repeal of the law.
Mr. MADISON wanted information, j
Bill read again.
GEORGIA JOURNAL AND MESSENGER.
Previous question called, and yeas aud
neys required. Vbte taken on tbe bill, on
its passage, aud were yeas 45, nays 87.
Bill lost.
I he Joint Committee, appointed to ex
amine tlie calendar, and report on state of
business, report as follow-:
Benate bills for third reading, 154.
Benate bills for second reading, 59.
Resolutions, 109.
House bills for third reading, 25.
House bills for second reading, 25.
Joint resolutions. 16.
The House Calendar is as follows:
House lulls for second reading, 20.
House t»ills for third reading, 253.
House bills postponed for present, 6.
Senate bills for third reading, 7.
House resolutions, 73.
The Committee are of the opinion that
by diligent attention to business all tlie
matter now before tlie Legislature can be
disposed of by Friday, the 25th inst., they
therefore recommend the adoption of the
following resolution :
Resolved, That tbe General Assembly
do adjourn sine die at 12 o’clock, m., on
Friday, 25th instant.
Report of Committee received and
agreed to
Mr. ANDERSON moved, to make tlie
General Tax Bid tbe special order of to
morrow (Friday.) Adopted.
A resolution was adopted permitting
the Clerk to employ five assistants.
The following new members were sworn
in: Hundley, of Warren county, Mor
gan, of Dougherty county, Byne and Bur
ton, of Burke county.
The hour of adjournment having ar
rived, the House adjourned till 4 o’clock
this evening.
Friday Sept. 11th, 1868.
SENATE.
The Senate met pursuaut to adjourn
ment, and was opened with prayer by tbe
Rev. Mr. Smith, of tbe 7th District.
The journal was read aud approved.
The hill gjauting aid to the Georgia Air
Line Railroad was read tlie second time.
A motion prevailed to print fifty copies.
The bill was made the special order for
Tuesday.
A resolution was agreed to, to give the
colored Senators otic hour each in their
defense on the question of eligibility.
The Senate took up the special order of
the day, which was tlie consideration of
the resolution of Mr. Winn, iu reference
to the eligibility of sitting colored mem
bers.
Mr. HOLCOMBE thought that it was a
a parliamentary rule that the persons
charged with not being eligible, to be
beard first, in their defense aud then retire
from the Hall.
Mr. HARRIS thought different, as the
charge hail first to be made.
Mr. HUNGERFORD rose to a point of
order, as there was no precedent heretofore
established to try two persons at the same
time.
The CHAIR thought to sever in the
case was not applicable heie, as no offense
was charged.
The resolution being before the Senate,
the Chair said Mr. Adkins had the floor,
and that geutleman proceeded to discuss
the measure. After his time had expired,
he begged for ten minutes, urging that he
could enlighten the minds of Democratic
Senators.
Mr. HARRIS, in the Chair, decided
that it would take a two-third vote to ex
tend the time. The rule governing in the
premises were enforced, when Mr. Higbee
took the floor. Having his remarks writ
ten, he read from the same, arguing the
Constitutional right of colored persons to
hold office. He quoted extensively from
the Constitution aud Irwin’s code. After
he concluded, Mr. Winn rose to reply.
His first point was that no party, no Sen
ator denied that under the law he had a
right to vote; further the Constitution is
silent. He is a citizen and entitled to all
the protections as such. If he can hold
office, then Senators here may as well give
up their seats in future. He feared that
tlie desire was to retain them iu power to
put scalawags and carpet-baggers in office.
(Applause iu the gallery suppressed by
Chair.) He could find nothing in that
Constitution conferring the right to hold
office. He voted lor that Constitution as a
Constitution Democrat, believing it the
best we could do; but if negroes are to
hold office, then he begged, it possible, to
take back his that subject. The
Seuator from the 19th hail saiil’, they
being citizens tiad that right. We argue,
therefore, that women have the same, be
ing citizens and under the protection of
the laws. As to the Convention, they
never so declared. (Here Mr. W. read
from the journal of the Convention, when
Mr. Harris moved to strike out tlie section
giving the right—the vote being: yeas
125; nays 12.) Will you depart from the
record ? You say he has the right aud
then deny it. Did they mean this, or
something else? They quote the Code in
defence of this lovely nigger, this bulwark
of their party, when the beginning of it
says that persons having one-eighth of
negro blood are not entitled to hold office,
it is a noted fact that there are certain per
sons in Georgia who cannot hold office.
I would mention Mr. Toombs as one ; he
can vote and not ho and office. Tbe negroes
are not alone iu this matter. There arc
thousands of noble patriots who are simi
larly situated. The right to vote does not
carry with it the rigid to hold office. Wo
men are citizens, hut they have neither
the right to vote nor hold office. You
seek, however, to place over the intelli
gence, the virtue and patriotism of Geor
gia, the rude, uneducated, and brutal
barbarian, the negro. The Senator from
the 19th wishes progress. He seeks, there
fore, to progress from the status of that of
a white man to that of a negro. (Laugh
ter.) I will never seek this level, either to
gain office or anything else I tell you,
Senators, this is a white man's government.
The Democratic party have so said, and
no matter how you act, you cannot change
it. What! is it possible that we should
suffer those to make our laws who are ig
norant barbarians? Thirty-six millions
of people, intelligent and enlightened,
will never permit it. Some for office, pelf,
and plunder, will permit it, and would
plunge this government to a war of races
to accomplish their purpose. Fix their
status aud let them have protection to
their lives, liberty and property. Any
thing that will conduce to further this I
am willing to assist in, but to make the
negro my equal, never.
After Mr. Winn’s remarks, Mr. Hunger
ford obtained the floor, and spoke in de
fence of tbe colored members.
Mr HARRIS followed Mr. Huugerford
iu opposition to the resolution. He con
fined his remarks mostly to the provi
sions of the Constitution, which, he
thought, plainly set forth the fact that the
negro is a citizen, and therefore had the
right to hold office. He, therefore, with
the oath tosupport that instrument hehad
taken, how could it be expected that he
could vote otherwise? He further stated
that it was simply a party measure, and
that the Democratic party told the negro
that he was entitled to hold omce, anil
now oeny it. He appealed to Senators to
say what had been the conduct of this
humble individual. Nothing in any way
derogatory to his character had ’ been
heard. It was his constitutional right we
were discussing.
Mr. Harris spoke with much feeling
and conveyed by his arguments that he
believed he would violate liis oath if he
voted for the resolution.
Mr. BROCK said it was a question of
doubt iii his mind whether the colored
members liau a right to Hold office. The
Democratic party was not consistent so far
as this proposition is concerned. He had
watched their papers during the canvass,
their editorials, and until a short time
since hail not heard a complaint from the
party that the negro had no right to hold
! office. He feared it was a party measure.
If you turn them out, then, it'will unite
these 95,000 negroes to vote for Grant. It
would unite them iu liis District. He was
jno Radical (laughter)—he did not like the
I name—but he was a conscientious man.
This is a legal government, and lie was
■ rejoiced to hear some of the Democrats
: admit it. He believed there was a God,
aud, He would do all things well. Mr.
I Brock spoke mainly upon the point as to
this being a government; and if so, in
i spite of our prejudices, if the Constitu-
I tion guarantees the right to negroes to
hold office, we should abide by it. He ar
gued at length quoting frequently from
the reconstruction acts.
Mr. LESTER—Do you hold that the re
construction acts give the negro the right
to hold office ?
Mr. BROCK—Take them altogether,
yes, I so hold.
Mr. WINN—Did you so announce it on
the stump duriug the late canvass?
Mr. BROCK—No, sir, (laughter,) but
the Democrats did.
Mr. WTNN— I never did, and I am a
Democrat now, aud always have been.
Mr. BROCK then alluded to the decis
ions of the Supreme Court, quoting from
Judge Chase. His time being out, he
concluded his remarks.
Mr. JORDAN rose iu reply. He said
be was no speaker, and as he had been
misrepresented he felt it a duty to reply, I
He was a member of that Convention,
ami if the 10th Section had not been
stricken out, 44 members would have been
withdrawn. If the negroes were deceived
iu the Convention it was by a negro from
Ohio named Langston; he heard him iu
the opjtosite chamber.
Mr. HUNGERFORD—Did-you uot say
that you were in favorof tbe negroes hold
ing office in the canvass?
Mr. J.—No sir. I never deceived any
body in my life, let alone the negro; but
lam aware that others have done so to
get office, and possibly tlie gentleman
is one of them. This was all he would
say : but if lie were a good speaker, lie
could intere-t this Senate with facts worse
than tbe above.
.Mr. GRIFFIN, of the2lst, was a mem
ber of the Convention, gave a sueciuai
history of the whole affair as the views of
the Convention as to tbe negroes holding
office.
Mr. GRIFFIN seldom entertains the
Senate with speeches, but we were sur
prised to hear him possessed of oratorical
powers and a gift of speech to enforce his
argument, truly commendable. Want of
space forbids our giving a synopsis of his
remarks. He was greeted with applause
from everybody. He concluded by saying
that be was proud to have his name re
corded in the affirmative, out of 14 on Mr.
Waddell’s resolution, and he would re
cord it again on this resolution.
Mr. CAMPBELL obtained the floor,
and spoke until the hour arrived, when
the Senate adjourned.
HOUSE V
House met. Prayer by Rev. W. orV
Crumly. ~ vV y*BtN
Mrr. liAKItER, of Terrell. amHgjgjtsNa
consider Senate bill lost ySstena»j>?
and amend the usury laws of this Stat*
He ami Messrs. Price aud Crawford, spoke
in favor of the motion.
M r. O’NEAL, of Lowndes, spoke against
the motion to reconsider as follows :
Mr. SPEAKER—The gentleman front
Terrell opened his remarks by saying that
“a full discussion of this bill had been cut
off on yesterday by a call of the previous
question, therefore his motion to reconsid
er this bill.” Front this, I expected the
gentleman would adduce some uew argu
ment favorable to the passage of the bill,
and especially so, as I was fully aware of
the gentleman’s ability to bring forward
in a strong light, everything that might
be said in its favor. But, Mr. Bpeaker, I
have been disappointed, whether from
want of sufficient perception or not, others
• must judge.
Why do the friends of this bill propose
to recommit it? Its ablest advocates are
being heard before the House to-day. Are
they withholding from the House any ar
guments iu favor of the bill, which they
propose to make before the committee? I
suppose not from tlie number of their
speakers and the amount of time each
consumes; therefore I can see no good
reason of recommitting this bill. Why
undertake to do that indirectly which you
cannot do directly ? If there is any new
light to be thrown upon this subject, let us
have it and take the vote directly upon
this bill. This bill proposes to wipe off
our statute book the usury laws, and open
up the way for contracts to pay any
amount of interest, making such contracts
legal and enforceable at law. The law of
Georgia, establishing a legal rate of inter
est, had its existence prior to the birtli of
every member on this floor, and its ene
mies have ever and anon spared no effort
to effect its repeal, but have universally
failed after full discussion in various Leg
islatures, composed of many of our ablest
and best predecessors and forefathers.
Does it become us, most of whom are leg
islators for the lirst time, to reverse the
judgment of our ancestors upon this im
portant subject ? I think not. The very
age of our usury laws raises a slroug pre
sumption in their favor,anil presents them
to my mind as being prima facte .correct.
‘l'he onusprobandi is upon those who pro
pose to change tiie law. Those of us who
favor the law as it now stauds lave all the
while been open to couvictbn. From
whence comes this proposition to repeal
our usury laws? Does it come from the
masses? I think not. In niyopiniou it
emanates from the brokers, bsnkers, mi
sers aud moneyed Shylocks cf Georgia,
and if 1 be correct in tiffs, I ge a step fur
ther and say, that their advocacy of the
bill is a powerful argument against it.
This class of men are interested in advan
cing the rr.l, >v -w it
they had any sort of notion tit-'it a repeal*
of the usury laws would lessen the price of
money, they certainly woultf oppose it,
upon the common principle of self-inter
est. The passage of this bill will open up
tiie channel for tlie bankruptcy of many
gooil men in Georgia, who ate bad tinan
ciers, and upon wtiose helpess families
this law will bring destruilinn. Many
laws have been found essenti:?! to tlie pro
tection of Uie innocent and ill is is one of
the most important. In nost of the
States of this Union, usury aws and acts
establishing a legal rate of nterest have
met the sanction of their wisest legislators
and continue to exist.
In nearly all tiie Northern States they
have an established rate of interest as well
as stringent usury laws ami yet we find
money p entiful there at from four to six
per cent, per annum. The great reason
for the scarcity of money here is to be
found in the unsettled stateof our political
concerns. In my judgment it becomes a
Legislator to favor such lasvs as will dis
courage tlie hoarding and lending of
money and encourage its Investment in
property so as to develope the materia'
interests of the country.
Let us retain the law restricting thi
price of money lent, and thereby encour
age its investment in matufacturirg,
mining, railroads, residences,fee.
Mr. LEE spoke in favor of tie motion."
Mr. BA USSY, of Chathaii, spoke in
favor of reconsideration, lie b one ofthe
new members—is quite a youig man, but
gave in this, his maiden ei'ort in the
House, unmistakable eviileuctjof talent of
high order. He was listened.to throigh-
out witli marked attention.
Mr. MORGAN, also anew mender,
spoke most earnestly in favori>f the reejn
shleration. Mr. M. is a lawyer fnm
Southwestern Georgia, and at the barin
his section stands second to nj) one.
Mr. BRYANT spoke in hvor of lie
reconsideration, congratulating liimielf
that for once lie agreed with Mr. Harder,
of Terrell.
Mr. HUDSON was opposed to rconsid
eration. His main point was fiat the
people demanded no change in tji usury
laws. Mr. H. is very couservat|'e iu all
his legislative acts, studiously wfchful of
the interests of the masses.
Mr. PLATTE, of Madison, driog the
discussion, remarked that he rosej a ques
tion of privilege. The lawyerasaid he,
were having a line time speak \Va3
it fair for the farmers to pay >r their
speeches?
The vote was taken, and result! in yeas
GO ; nays 63.
Mr. HARPER moved to recorder the
bill passed yesterday repeaiingthe act
preventing the sale nf a-Ps liguors
within one-half mile House
in said town. Mr. Harper poeeded to
address the House, when Mr. Diicaa rose
to a poiut of order—that this bi| hiving
been once reconsidered, could ni mw be
reconsidered again.
The Speaker ruled that the Jiinl was
well taken.
Mr. BRYANT said the rule).vas that
the House should meet in the |xft«rnoon
for the sole purpose of readiig bils the
second time, and that the pas?^ e u ' Una
bill was illegal.
Mr. HARPER said he agreed he tccond
time with Mr. Bryant.
Mr. HUDSON stated that he ladjuoved
to take up the bill now underbonadera
tion. He did so as a matter of hvorto the
member from Fayette. He ILcUimed
any intention to take any adviutafe, or
to take a snap judgment.
On motion of Mr. FLOURNOY, toe ac
tion of the House on yesterday was Recon
sidered.
Messrs. Harper and Flournoy dißaina
ed auy intention to reflect upon tie mo
tives of Mr. Hudson.
Mr.,SCOTT moved to amend thelesolu
tion ordering afternoon sessions p as to
read bills the first time. Agreed tu
The following members were s\orn in,
vice negroes declared ineligible:W. B.
Hill, J. C. Wilson, Clarke county :Eliß.
Glover, Jasper county ; John W." Firmer,
Liberty couity.
A special order of the day : A bill jto
levy and mllect a tax for the suppor&of
the government for the politiwl year ISiS.
Mr. TALIAFERRO moved lo strike ole
the ten dollar tax on practitjouers of
physic, and dentistry, and also the
dollar tac on daguerrean and similar ai
tists. Notion not agreed to.
Mr. FLOURNOY moved to strike cut
the for*y dollar tax on billiard tables aud
make it ten dollars. Mr. Hall signified
bis willingness to accept twenty-five dol
lars.
Tljh motion was lost, and the tax re
mails sl'».
Mi. CRAWFORD moved to strike out
the flO tax on bagatelle tables and insert
SJS. Agreed to.
Mr. CRAWFORD moved to strike out
sloas tax on ten pin alleys and insert S2O.
Mr. FRANKS moved to insert S4O.
Mr. Crawford’s motion prevailed.
Mr. CRAWFORD moved to strike out
$M as the tax upon every other table,
stand, or place for any other game or play,
with or without a name, and insert $25.
Mr tiou lost, amt $lO tax retained.
Mr. HARPER, of Terrell, moved to
strike out the section taxing race tracks
SSO. Lost.
Mr. PRICE moved to add to tlie section
taxing sales of spirituous liquors ad valo
rem the following words: “flint nothing
in this section shall prevent the various
incorporated towns in this State from
licensing retailers of spirituous liquors.”
Agreed to.
Mr. SCOTT moved to strike out “capital
stock” in the section taxing banks, rail
roads, express ami insurance companies,
etc., aud insert “ net income.” With
drawn.
Mr. SCOTT moved to insert the follow
ing proviso : “ Provided, that the Macon
ami Western ami Atlanta and West Point
Railroads are not required to pay any
greater or a different tax than is imposed
on any other railroads.”
Mr. BAUSSY moved to refer this sec
tion to tlie Judiciary Committee. The
motion to lefer prevailed.
In the section taxing foreign insurance
companies 21 per cent, on tlie amount of
premiums, ami taxing express companies
doing business in tiffs Slate one half of
one per cent, on their capital stock.
Mr. FLOURNOY moved to strike out
2) percent, in this section, and insert two
per cent.
Mr. ANDERSON moved to insert one
•■per cent.
Hie section was adopted without ameml-
Mi. PRICE moved as a ninth section :
“That no assessment shall be made for
county purposes on the specific tax herein
imposed on practitioners of law, physic
and dentistry.” Adopted.
The returns are to be taken immediate
ly, and taxes to be collected by the 25tli of
December.
Section nine provides that if thessoo,ooo
authorized to be assessed and collected, lie
not, in the discretion of the Governor,
sufficient, that lie be authorized to assess
such additional amount as he may deem
necessary.
On motion of Mr. TUMLIN, of Ran
dolph, this section was stricken out.
Tiie hill was laid on the table for the
present, and the House adjourned to 9
o’clock to morrow morning
[Among the distinguished strangers we
havo seen in tlie lobby for tbe last few
days, is Mr. Shaw, of Stewart, a member
of tlie Legislature of 1865 66, where he
acquired au enviable notoriety as an emi
nently practical legislator. Though a
Northern man by birth and education, he
is intensely Southern in his feelings, boast
ing that for all he is, and all he bus, he is
indebted to Georgia. We were pleased to
see the cordiality with which Speaker
McWhorter greeted his former legislative
associate, and the courtesy with which he
invited him to a seat on the floor.]
SENATE.
Saturday, Sept. 12.
The Senate nietat 9 o’clock, The Presi
dent in the Chair.
Prayer by Rev. Mr. Crumley.
The reading of a portion of the Journal
was, on motion, dispensed with. Thebal
ance read and approved.
Mr. GRIFFIN, (21st,) on the part of the
special committee, on the memorial of the
citizens of Milledgeville, in reference to
removal of capital, asked leave to present
a minority report.
The CHAI R ruled that as the majority
report was not yet read, the reading of the
minority report would not ho in order.
A resolution looking to the establish
ment of poor houses iu tlie various coun
ties of tiie Slate, was referred to the Judi
ciary Committee, with instructions to re
port a biff on the subject.
Mr. CAMPBELL, (colored,) having the
floor, continued lffs unfinished speech of
yesterday in defense of lffs eligibility to a
seat in the Senate. He concluded by say
ing that he knew his doom was certain,
hut claimed tlie right to enter a respectful
protest at the proper time. He made a
very temperate speech and was willing to
peaceably anide the decision of tbe law.
Mr. SMITH, (36th,) was always a Union
nia.. constitutionally a Union man. He
was i Reconstnictioiiist, as the terms pre
sented, lie thought, were Hie heat we could
hope for. The lirst tight ill the Conven
tion was sprung upon tlie words “tlie
right to hold office.” It never was con
ceded by the Conservatives of that Con
vention that the Constitution gave the ne
gro tlie right to hold office. ,
Men of the Convention who stated in
private caucus that they would oppose ne
gro office holding, were here upon this
floor claiming that negroes should be al
lowed seats in tlie Senate. He would lie
recreant to his race, to his wife and chil
dren. to all that lie holds most dßar on
earth, did lie consent to support what will
inevitably end in discord, anarchy, and a
war of races. So help him God ! lie would
never do it.
Mr. LESTER was not aware tliat this
was a question belonging to the Demo
cratic party. He thought it was a matter
involving the interests of the white men of
all parties. The negro has a right to vote
in Georgia, under the new Constitution,
hut that does not convey with it the right
to hold office.
The speaker entered into a very able ar
gument to establish the truth of the prop
osition. He cited authorities to prove that
Congress had recognized the principle
that citizenship, the right to hold office,
the right to vote, and all political privi
leges must be expressly delegated in order
to have effect.
Mr. NUNN ALLY stated that as no oth
er Senator on the Democratic side expected
to speak, inasmuch as Mr. Lester had
been requested to do all the' r speaking, he
would move that the Senator’s lime be
extended. The motion prevailed and
Mr. LESTER proceeded. This was a
question for lire respective States. Con
gress left it there and the Fourteenth Ar
ticle left it there, nor did the Constitution
of the United States say anything about
citizeusbip carrying with it the right to
vote or hold office. If “privileges and im
munities” give the negro these rights in
Georgia , under the Constitution of the Uni
ted States they give the negro the same right
in Ohio.
Mr. HIGBEE interrupted the speaker
[he had done the same tiling several times
before] with a question.
Mr. NUNNALLY moved “ that the
Senator from the 25th district (Mr. Uig
bee) he putin a straight jacket, and Ids
mouth sealed until the debate is over.”
The PRESIDENT decided the motion
to be out of order.
Mr. HUNGERFORD hoped the Sena
tor would uot again be interrupted.
Mr. LESTER proceeded: Mr. Presi
dent and Senators, you are now making
history, and it is right that it should be
made on correct principles, regardless of
in Qounnlanna with ;
constitution of the codntry. Do so, and
- generations t<* come will look back !
upon you as the champions of constitu
tional liberty
Mr. SPEER read his sentiments from a
prepared document. He would vote to
retain the colored members.
Mr. SMITH, (7th). He imped to be able
to harmonize conflicting elements. In
the record of the past there is a marked
silence on this question. The striking
mt of the 10th section left the matter for
future legislatiou. When Mr. Hill said
the Constitution gave the rigiit to the ne
gro to hold office, i said lie was either de
rauged or he intended to tell a falsehood.
That right must be conferred by specific
law. 1 shall vote for tbe resolution. In
casting my vote I do not mean that the
colored man shall not vote, nor do I mean
that I desire them to be put back in
slavery. Let a resolution be introduced
here denying him the right to vote and I
will vote against it to the last.
He complimented Campbell upon the
mild, peaceful and proper manner in
which he had met this question. He
ho{>ed the colored men everywhere would
act likewise. The duty of the white man
was to take charge of the black man, give
him proper counsel and advice, and disap
pointed characters would then lose the
control—peace and harmony would pre
vail.
Mr. HOLCOMBE called the previous
question. Carried.
The maiu question was put, being on
the passage of the resolution declaring the
seats of T. G. Campbell and Wallace va
cant.
The yeas and nays were called.
Those who voted in the affirmative are :
Messrs. Anderson, Burns, Candler, Col
lier, Faiu, Graham, Griffin flith,) Griffin
(21st,) Hicks, Hinton, Holcombe, Jordan,
Lester, McArthur, McCutchen, Moore,
Nisbet, Nuuually, Richardson, Smith,
(7th,) Smith, (36th,) Wellborn, Winn,
Wooten 24.
Those who voted in the negative, are:
Messrs. AdkiDS, Bowers, Coleman, Dick
ey, Harris, Higbee, Hungerford, Jones,
Sherman, Speer, and Welch. Nays 11.
So the resolution was adopted.
Jesolu
p as to
Mr. HIGBEK presented a protest in
behalf of the ousted colored men.
Mr. WINN moved to take up the bill
declaring negroes ineligible to any office
of honor, profit or trust in the State of
Georgia.
Mr. HUNGERFORD, on ike part of
Mr. Campbell, presented a protest against
the action of the Senate declaring (he seats
of Campbell and Wallace vacant
Mr. HOLCOMBE objected. If the par
ty hail never been a Senator, lie had no
right to enter a protest in person or by
another.
Mr. FAIN moved that the protest of
Mr. Campbell, if couched in respectful
terms, be received with the others.
Mr. WINN objected.
The previous question was sustained,
the main question put and carried, and
the protest received and read.
The protest was entered upon the jour
nal.
Mr. CANDLER introduced a resolution
declaring that the candidates in the 2d
and -rttli Senatorial Districts who received
the next highest number of votes, are en
titled to the seats just declared vacant,
and that the Governor he requested to fur
nish the Senate with a list of the election
returns for said districts. The resolution
was adopted.
The rules were suspended and a House
hill read for the first time looking to the
payment of the General Assembly.
Adjourned till Monday morning, nine
o’clock.
HOUSE! OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Saturday, Sept. 12.
The House met pursuant to adjourn
ment.
Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Crumley.
Journal read and approved.
On motion of Mr. HALL the tax bill
was iakari up. 1
The Judiciary Committee reported the
following section and recommended that
it be added to the hill:
“That all Railroad Companies incorpor
ated in this State shall pay one half of
one per cent, on their net earnings.”
“That all Domestic Express Companies,
National Banks, and Domestic Insurance
Companies doing business in this State,
shall pay a tax of one half of one per cent,
on their respective incomes.”
“There shall be no income tax except as
in the sections above.”
Considerable discussion ensued on the
constitutional question involved.
Mr. SISSON moved to refer the whole
to the Judiciary Committee again. Motion
lost.
The vote was (lien taken on the report
of the committee and report adopted.
The bill was then passed as amended.
Mr. HARPER moved to suspend the
rules to take up the bill authorizing the
Governor to borrow money to pay otr the
members of the General Assembly.
Mr. SCOTT wanted information as to
how the Governor proposed to raise the
money.
The vote was taken on this bill and it
was adopted aud ordered to be transmitted
at once.
The special order of the day was then
taken up. It was the investigation of the
eligibility of tlie four colored members,
who claim to have less than one-eighth
negro blood. Committee appointed to in
vestigate were not prepared to report, and
it was, on motion, laid on the tab e, until
the committee was prepared to report.
Mr. PRICE presented a memorial from
Mr. P. C. McCrary, who had lost a leg on
the State Road, auJ who had been re
tained in the service of said road by Sll
periuteudents Robert Baugh and Wal
lace ; said memorial stating that Superin
tendent Hulbert had so reduced his wages
that he could not get along, and setting
forth reasons why he should he retained
at former wages.
Petition read and referred.
Mr. HARPER moved to have a com
mittee appointed to co-operate with a Sen
ate Committee to revise Irwin’s Code.
Mr DUNCAN offered a substitute to
appoint a committee of three to examine
a manuscript revision of Irwin’s Code by
Mr. Platt, of Randolph county, and re
port on it. Tiie vote was taken on the
substitute, and it was adopted. Messrs.
Harper, McCdtchen and Anderson were
appointed.
a hill to amend the charter of the town j
of Americus. Head third timeand passed.
Oil motiou of Mr. FORD, the rules were
suspended and a bill to amend the charter
of the town of Cartersville taken up and
read the third time, and bill passed.
On motion of Mr. TWKKUY, the rules
were suspended and a hill to authorize the
municipal authorities to grant license to
I’awn Brokers, etc., was read third time
and passed.
On motiou of Mr. Duncan, the rules were
suspended, and tiie Senate bill read the
third time to protect planters against the
sale of spurious fertilizers, etc. Bill passed.
On motion of Mr. SISSON, the bill to
incorporate the village of West End was
taken up and reud the third lime, and the
hill passed.
Mr. TOMLIN moved to make the Belief
Bill the special order ol Monday next.
Adopted.
Mr. FITZPATRICK. A hill to author
ize the levy of a special tax for the pur
pose of building a common jail in the
county of Bibb Bill read the lirst time.
Mr. HALL, of Meriwether, a hill to
regulate the rate of tax to he required of
the Macon and Western and Atlanta and
West Poiut Railroads. Bill read a third
time and passed. It repeals a former law.
Several local hills were taken tip and
read the third time and acted upon.
Mr. HALL, of Glynn, moved to sus
pend rules to take up Senate resolution
to authorize the keeper of the public prop
erty at Miiledgeville to arrange for protec
tion of public documents, etc. Rules sus
pended and resolution concurred in.
A bill to change the lines between the
counties of Quitman and Stewart. Bill
read third time and passed.
Mr BARNUM moved the suspension
of (lie rules to introduce the following:
Whereas, The joint resolution passed
by the General Assembly, authorizing J.
W. Burke to execute the State printing,
lias become a law by failure of the Gov
ernor to sign and return the same within
the time specified by law; be it, therefore,
Resolved, by the Senate and J louse of
Representatives, That the Clerk of the
House and Secretary of the Senate he in
structed to turn over the printing at once
to the said J. W. Burke.
Resolution adopted, and ordered to he
at once transmitted.
Several changes were made in the time
of holding Superior Courts in the differ
ent circuits.
Balauce of the session consumed in
reading hills first and second time.
The hour of adjournment having ar
rived, the House adjourned till nine
o’clock Monday morning.
+. ♦
A HAIVTKD IIOIBE.
Queer (Sight* mil Sound*.-OreatlKxeltement
rn the south-eastern portion of the city,
near where once stood the old jail build
it,&, ttud aido near where in ancient days
there was a cemetery, stands a neat block
of houses, all occupied by intelligent and
respectable poopu*. Far the present, we
refrain from giving the locality *i«,
particularity.
A short time ago one of the houses was
rented by a young coupleabout commenc
ing house-keeping. They furnished and
occupied tlie dwelling, anticipating, no
doubt, all tiie comforts and delights which
appertain to a sung and happyJaome. But
all their dreams of happiness were rudely
and suddenly dispelled by ati occurrence
as strange as it is uuaccountalde. A night
or two since the husband was awakened
from his slumbers by a noise. Listening
intently, at an hour when all sounds are
generally hushed, he distinctly heard
three distinct knocks in the lower part of
the house. He arose and went below,
said nothing, and opened the front door.
As he did so a shdowy form appeared to
flit through the window av his side, aud
with a mocking laugh it disapi>eared. He
waited, but saw nothing more, aud finally
retired.
Night before last he was again awak
ened, and saw standing by bis bedside,
the tail, shadowy figure of a man dressed
iu a complete suit of funeral black, with
a gory gash across his forehead. The
figure raised its hand and beck oned. Im
pelled by a power he was unable to resist,
he arose and followed. It backed across
the room until it reached a corner occu
pied by a wasbstand, and there it sudden
ly and mysteriously disappeared.
The feelings of those occupying the
house may beimagiued; the story getting
abroad has raised a great excitement in
the neighborhood. —Saw Republican, Hth.
The Boston Daily Transcript, in a no
tice of Bishop Simpson’s lecture, says:
“The Bishop predicted tliat, in a few
years, here in Boston, we would have
Chinese servants in our houses. Paterfa
milias referred to this at the breakfast ta
ble, this morning, when little Minnie, af
ter a while, came to his chair, and whis
pered, “Oh, pa, won’t it be nice! We
shall have a Chinese servant, and she will
eat all the rats, so we won’t have to keep
a cat!”
MONDAY, SEPT. 14, 1868.
THE \SIIBI K\ PRISONERS.
Report oIG.-ucrnl Mem!.—The Cruel mid Inhuman
Treatment of the Prl-oner* Admitted—'The AAlt
■leastk Tor the Proaeeutton Subjected in Tortures
of all Kliitla to Alake up a f'aae A_:fiiti*i Them.
Major General Meade ha-: made a report
of his action ami that of the military offi
cers under him, in the matter of the ar
rest and manner of treatment of prisoners
charged with complicity in the murder of
Asliburn, 111 Cniumbie Georgia, who was
killed in a brothel on the ROth day of
March.
It will be recollected that some of the
parties thus arrested have published a
statement of tiie cruelties and inhuman
treatment they were mhjocied to whilst
under arrest, and that Reid, one of the de
tectives etnytoyed by General Meade ami
General Grant to “ work up the case,” lias
also recently made an affidavit to tiie
facts, which show that certain persons
among the prisoners wore subjected to
barbarous treatment, under authority
claimed to have been received from tiie
military commander.
Aw a vindication of himself against
these allegations. General Meade lias
asked and received authority to publish an
account of his doings. It appears that tiie
murder of Asliburn, who had been a mem
ber of the Georgia Constitutional Conven
tion, caused a great deal of excitement,
which ultimately assumed tlie form of a
political controversy. It was charged
that General Meade and some of Ids sub
ordinates entered into the pursuit and
trial of the alleged murderers in part for
the gratification of partisans and to make
liolitical capital.
The report, including exhibits, is quite
voluminous, but the gre; t bulk of it is
made up of copies of ordets for arrest, and
returu4 of officers thereon.
The report shows that the civil authori
ties at Columbus had undertaken to ferret
out aud bring to trial the persons that
killed Asliburn, and that liie military
commander, whose headquarters were in
that place, at first commended the action
of tiie civil officers, but afterwards recom
mended that tiie military take the case in
hand. Thereupon Major General Meade
ordereil a military commission to try such
parties as might he arrested aud charged
with tiie crime.
A number of arrests were made, upon
the suggestion of various parties, but es
pecially upon the direction of two detec
tives, VVhiteley and Reed, who were em
ployed by the advice of General Grant,
and at the request of General Meade.
The officer in charge at Fort Pulaski
certifies, officially, that these detectives
“came to tlie fort with tiie prisoners in
charge, with orders to have the sole con
trol of them; consequently L assumed no
authority, except to keep them securely.’
To discover two colored men Wells and
Stapler, were in possession of information
material to the case, the officer says “the
detectives thought proper to operate some
what upon their feelings.” This opera
ting upon their feeling consisted in lath
ering their heads, preparatory to shaving
them; blindfolding the prisoners, ami
placing them in a casement of the fort ;
there the bandage was taken oil’ and be
fore the prisoners’ view there stood a sol
dier ready to tire off a cannon which was
pointed at the accused. Whilst these
threatening operations were going on, the
detectives endeavored to force the prison
ers to make some disclosures about the
murder, but in vain, for tney protested
they knew nothing of tiie killing. They
were then placed in “sweat boxes,” des
cribed as a closet in the walls of (he fort,
a little wider than tiie prisoner’s body,
the door closing within three inches of
his breast, aud the only air admitted be
ing through a few augur-holes in the door.
Heie they were left in 1 He belief that they
were to be kept there thirty days, unless
sooner they should disclose important
facts. They were allowed to remain here
thirty-three hours, during which time
they were nearly suffocated, and again
questioned, hut with uo success.
It is shown, also, that neither of tiie
persons arrested —some twenty odd
were permitted to consult counsel, or con
versenvith anybody, and that they were
thrown into and incarcerated within tiie
prisons indiscriminately. The prisoners
who were confined fora long time, and af
terwards discharged without trial, des
cribe their cells as being some four by
seven feet—others two feet ten inches
wide, and dark ; no ventilation : that they
had bad food, Ae.
Upon the matter of tiie size of cells, the
report includes a letter of one of tiie pris
oners to tiie military officer in charge, set
ting forth that cells had been reduced
from six to two feet; that they could
scarcely breathe in them, Ac., Ac. This
letter, with otic is of like character, was
forwarded to the commanding General,
who shortly after gave instructions that
“it these prisoners will give bonds not to
attempt to escape, or to hold intercourse
with any persons but such as are authoriz
ed by the commander of the Bub-District
ol Georgia, the prisoners can be removed
to the ollieers’ quarters, and be made as
comfortable as is consistent with their be
ing under proper surveillance.”
Another charge of the released prisoners
is that they were arrested without affida
vit, or warrant, or charge, and were not
permitted to confer with counsel or friends
The report upon this point shows that
in tiie lirst instance, and for some days,
tiie order was tiiat the prisoners be not
permitted to converse with any person
whatever, but that at a later peri >d they
were allowed to confer with counsel.
The report allows, further, that after tiie
arrests had been made, namely on the
."»<ft 1 1 of Juno last, General Meade informs
General Grant and the Secretary of War
that upon leaving Washington he was of
opinion that civil prisoners might and
should be turned over to (In* eivil authori
ties upon the admission of the State, but
the developments of the Asliburn murder
case lias modi lied this opinion, and lie
thinks that all military commissions jK.-nd
ing when tiie State is admitted should he
carried out by the military authorities, and
ssks if Congress can take action in the
matter.
hour days prior to the foregoing com
munication, namely 26th of June, General
Meade sent to the Secretary of War the
following communication :
“J deem it of the utmost importance, not
only for the ends of justice, but for my
personal vindication, that the Aslibum
murderers should he tried by military com
mission, and I have accordingly ordered
(lie trial for Monday next. Before going
North, I retained ex Governor Joseph
Brown as counsel for the Government, i
deem Ids services of great importance, not
only for his legal ability, but for the influ
ence bis position in the Slate will give the
prosecution. He has been actively em
ployed during my absence, but to-day, on
my asking him what his fee would he, lie
replied 'five thousand dollars.’ I stated i did
not feel authorized to pay such an amount
without the sanction of superior authority.
He expressed his willingness to withdraw,
and not to communicate any information
lie had obtained.”
General Meade then advises llieemploy-
Governor Brown in view of the
defendants fear that
by saying the evidence is of the most'poS'-
ilive kind, and leaves no ground to doubt
the conviction of the principal actors.—
National Intelligencer ( 3th.
DESTRUCTIVE FIRE AT QIIM \, FLORIDA.
Nine Jluildings Destroyed—Loss Jletivecn
$60,000 and $70,000—515,060 to $20,000
Insurance.
Special Correspondence Savannah Republican.
Quincy, Fla., Kept. 9, 1868.
I have just time to write ere the mail
closes, to inform you of a very destructive
fire, which occurred to night.
About half-past six o’clock this evening
a fire broke out iu the store of Mr. Tbos.
Jones, on Washington street, fronting the
Court House square, destroyiug about nine
buildings—one-third of the business por
tion of the town —among which were the
Commonwealth printing office, Die Post
Office, T. D. Wilson’s livery stable, aud
several dry goods, grocery and drug stores.
The loss is estimated by reliable persons
at $60,000—515,000 to $20,000 insurance.
The lire was caused by the contact of a
light with a barrel of crescent oil, or self
generating gas, which is very explosive.
\\ ill write more particulars to-morrow.
E. J. J.
ANOTHER ACCOUNT.
By a telegram to Messrs Hartridge A
Netl, we learn that a large fire occurred in
Quincy, I'la., on Wednesday night, in
volving a loss of $70,000. The amount of
the insurance held by sufferers is stated at
$13,000. No particulars of the conllagra
tion were given in the dispatch.
ftTWe are glad that the Legislature
has adopted a resolution designating our
friend Burke, of Macon, as State Printer
for the present session. —Monroe Adv., Bth.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 10,
MEETING OK THE HEMOf RATK < M it
TELFAIR KOI XTA ° l
At a large aud enthusiast).* meetinr
the Democratic Club of TANARUS, ' , . .
' '•HI IIJ y
which was called on IheTih u,-i t 0 , Y ’
into consideration matters |
the interest of the party : Alsotu.
for a mass meet ingot the Deum.-ra!
lobe held at Jackson vi lie, on t). '
October, in accordance with puhli*h
tiee, (lie object of the meeting Go -
explained by (’apt. A. T. Burk (li |;
kmsville, tiie following resolute,
passed.
On motion of Col. .1. C. Brown ;i ,
mittecof arrangements of fifteen u
pointed by tiie chair from tiie i,>| v.
districts:
Jacksonville District .1. s. Wan.
(’. Wilcox, Win. Mcßae, S. w. >! a
mon, A. J. Campbell, and |, 1 ».■■!'
hams.
Rond Town District —John BviL Ii
Wilcox, and Win. Ryals. ‘ ‘ ’
Scotland District—A. Curry. Ti ...
Lasliiy, and A. H. Graham.
Lumber City District— M. N. Mcliae p.
ter McArthy, and Banders Mel ;ll |,j'
Said committee authorised to select a
appoint committees in other eouuti,
assist in getting subscriptions and sup,.,
vise a public barbecue to be given hv u
citizens of the several counties cniuposii,
the Ist Congressional District.
On motion, a Committee of Corres|mii,i
once was appointed by the chair *»f tfir,
to invite Public Speakers to address tl
Mass Meeting—Committee, Gol. ,1. <
Brown, Dr. H. L. \V. Craig, and J. p
Wynn.
On motion, Col. Wiley J. Williams
appointed Marshal of the day, piivii,
to select as many assistants as heci arv
On motion, t’ois. C. G. Kibbeo, N
McDutlee, and O. (’. Horn, of Hawkii,
villi*, were requested to procure the a;
tendance of the Democratic Brass li ai |i|
of Macon, for tiie occasion.
On motion of Wm. Ryals, it was order
ed by the chair that the proceedings «>f tlj,
meeting be sent to tiie Journal A Mr-
SKNIfEK and Macon Tcleyraph, with tin*
request to publish them, and oilier paper*
friendly to the cause to please copy.
John McDkarmip, Chairman.
J. D. Wynn, Kec’y.
Jacksonville, (fa.,,Sept. ~th, lsr.s.
From the Albany News, lltli.
111.>104 11 AIK COXAE\TIOX Slum, IDA
URESSIOXAL IHSTKK I .
Pursuant to a call from the Chairman
of the Executive Committee, Second Con
gressional District, a convention as*em
bled at Smilhville, this loth Sept., Istis
On motion of Hon. W. A. Harris, of
Worth, tiie Hon. T L. Guerry, of Quit
man, was made permanent President of
the Convention, and Capt. F. 11. West,
and D. H. Pope were appointed Secreta
ries.
Delegates from tin* following comitii**
answered to their names, as follows ;
Baker —A. I). Hawes, W. D. Ivey.
Calhoun—G W Wooten.
Decatur—Richard Sims, J JI Grillin.
Dooly—lt D Bryan, Jus. Cobb
Dougherty—General G J Wright, I. l
Welch, J W Mayo, B O Keaton, J \\
Armstrong, T A E Evans, M W lump
kins, W A Farly and D II Pope.
Early—T F Jones.
Lee —Gen. Goode Bryan, Phil \\V-|,
Alfred Kersy, Henry Long.
Macon—Col W A Wilus, W W Hill,
R Williams, Major F T Sneed.
Marion —W M Drane.
Mitchell —Major it .1 Bacon, I rael M i
pies,Captain Troupe Butler, John A M
Gregor; Green S Jackson.
Miller—J C DeGratlenried.
Pulaski—Col N McDuffie.
Quitman —Hon T S Guerry, K .1 Moor,*.
Randolph —lt S Jackson, lion K I,
Douglass, Hon W D Kiddoo, lion A Id
der, Wm Taylor, T C Sale, A J Heard.
Sumter— W J Reese, \V Davenport, Jr.
Col M Calloway, G S Durley, J Thome
Hoti A Fort, R L Oliver, S I* Join .
’i errel -J M Simmons, J Maiahall, \V
F Gibson, it II Fletcher, J L l> Perryman,
Col its Weston.
Worth—J Sumner, Hr., Hon. i>.ai■ 1
Henderson, < ’apt It ft Jenkins, < apt .lotiii
It Bosemuil, Hull \V I. Hum, Judge .1 U
Rouse, Win Henderson, Gap! RJ Kuril
Col W A Harris.
Webster —Frank E Burke, \V 11 M r
Lhcw s
The following colored delegates were, I*'*
action of the Convention, invited tosi-i
on the floor, with the right to partieip r
in the proceedings;
Calhoun—Henry Thompson, colored.
Dougherty—George Coleman, Willi*
Duncan, coloied.
Lee— J Berryhill, John Jordan, culm* :
On motion of OoJ. Fielder, Pres- ftepm
ters amt Editors present, were invited I**
take seats on tiie rostrum with the l'hair
man.
Hon. Wm. Jones, of Early, oflercit a
resolution, that each e >unty lie entitled
to two votes in this Convention, for cat
member such county has in Die Douseii
Representatives in this State.
The following resolution was offend t-
Gen. Wright, of Dougherty, and "
unanimously adopted:
“ Resolved, 'That this Convention pr--
ceed to the nomination of a suitable ran
didate to represent the people of Ibis 1>
trict, in the next Congress of the I mi 1
States.”
Col. Harris, of Worth, nominated I L”
Nelson Tift.
On motion of Col. Fielder, of Randolph
the Hon. Nelson Tift was uiianitnoii-.
nominated by acclamation.
On motion, Messrs. Fielder, of 1C
dolph, Harris, of Worth, Sims, of Decatur
Wright, of Domrliertv. and Bacon,
Mitchell, were appoimed a committee t
wait onjlon. Nelson Tift, and notify hi:
of his unanimous nomination tiy tin
Convention.
Gen. Wright, of Dougherty, offer* and i:.
following resolution:
Resolved, That it is the sense of tln-
Con ven lion that the LegislalureofG* «,i
should make, by proper legislation, .
necessary arrangements for holding of I
election for members to repiescnl li
Ktate in the next Congress.
1 his resolution was unanimously a<!
ted.
Col, Fielder, of Randolph, made a :
lion that the Democratic paper- l><
quested to publish the proceedings of and
meeting. His motion was agreed to.
On motion of General Wright, tin
vention adjourned sine die.
J. L. Gukkky, l*r- -1
F. H. West, l u ,
D. U. p0,.,.;//‘Secretaries.
Struck hy Liuhtninci. Mr. Pic-
Pope, son of Jno. Pope, s mil*-- from
city, and near ureen and Howard - I
evening having gone a • ’
a neighbor, ainTfrftWM'fe. 11 -
was returning, and as he passed a 1
of trees by Die roadside, a flash <»!
ning struck one of tbe tree-. Tic
seems to have left the tree aud leap- 1
Mr. Pope, passed bown his back :*■'
leg to the ground. Mr. Pope was of <
knocked down, and remained in-" '
for fifteen minutes, when he re<-' -
gradually, and is now perfectly "
cept the blisters produced in the t' :l n
the electric fluid down hi- tsidy »'c
The hair on the back of hi* ti*-e. /'' r
burned off. It was raining slightlv
time, A narrow escape inde*”
blisters on his person are coniine u '
his head to liisteet. —Atlanta lnt<
**
Cotton. From present api’ 1 "' ;
there can hardly be a doubt that 0-
ton crop in this section of tlcorisia
Florida will not only be cut off on* ‘‘
by the caterpillar aud boll worm 1 ‘ j
ery lock of tbe present crop will ha'- ;
carried to the gin-house, and the n>
it taken to market hy Die Ist of !>•
Within a week from to-day the h
have not lieen picked, will la- P
white, and picking will have t
rapid to prevent loss. —Bainbriay I
12th.
Heavy Cotton.—Our readers sc
member a reference from our p
time since to some fine cotton e r 'J" fl
the plantation of our friend an-_ ■
citizen, Dr. It. A. -M af‘‘j * ' .-l i 1
worms have nearly ruined the■
the Doctor lias sent us a samp.?- . K
ton from sixty-five bolls weig '• (J * I
picked, one pound ami a ‘ a _ ’ u-■ f
weighs one pound and a quart>-i, ■ - j IL |
lie seen at our office. It 1 0 f ~rd- f
dred Lolls, and good ones at tnai, , |
nary kinds of cotton to weig • "
—Columbus Sun, 13 th.