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About Weekly constitutionalist. (Augusta, Ga.) 185?-1877 | View Entire Issue (Jan. 15, 1868)
Proceedings of the Georgia Unconstitutional Convention. REPORTED FOR THE ATLANTA DAILT INTELLI GENCER. Atlanta, Jan. 8, 1867. Convention met pursuant to adjournment, President Parrott in the Chair. Prayer by Dr. Pretty man, Chaplain. The roll was called, and a quorum was found present. About 103 delegates answered to their names, as follows : M< ssrs. Adkins, Akerman, Alexander, Ash burn, Bedford, Ball, Bell, ol Oglethorpe; Bell, of Bank* ; Bowden, of Monroe ; Bowers, Big bee, Bowden, of Campbell ; Blount, Brown, Burnett, Campbell, Catching 1 , Cassey, Ciift- Cbristian, ol Newton; Chatters. Clairborne, Chambers, Cooper, Cobb, of Houston ; Costin’ Conley, Crawford, Crayton, Crumlev, Dinkins’ Dunning, Ellington, Flynn, Foster', of Pauld ing; Gilbert, Goodwin, Goves, Goulding, Gris, fin, Guilford, Harris* of Newton ; Harrison, of Hancock; Higbee, Higden, Hotchkiss, Hous ton, Holcomb,Harland, Hooks,Hudson, Hutch eson, Jackson, Joiner, Jordan, Key, Knox Lee, Linder, Lumpkin, Madden, Maul, Martin’ ot Carroll; Martin, of .Habersham; Mellan,’ McCoy. McWhorter, Moore, of Columbia; Noble, Palmer, Parrott, Prince, Reynolds, Rice, Richardson, Rozar, Robertson, Saflbld, Saulter, Shields, Seeley, Sherman, Smith, ot Carlton ; Speer, Shumate, Supple, Stone, Strick land, Trammell, Traywick, Turner, Walton, Wallace, Waddell. Welch, Whitaker, White head, ot Burke; Whitely, Williams, Woodey, Wooden, Yates. The call of the roll for the introduction of new matter was proceeded with, when the fol lowing resolutions and ordinances were offered and read the first time, to wit: By Mr. Bell, of Banks— A resolution relative to incorporating in the constitution a clause requiring the General As sembly to tester works of internal improve ment. By Mr. Blount— An ordinance to declare illegal, null and void all notes, bonds and executions for the pur chase of slaves ; and further, to make null and void all laws of the State of Georgia made while in a state of rebellion against the United States, by which money lias been raised for the purpose of carrying on and sustaining the late war against the United States, and all notes, bonds, bills and contracts founded thereon. A resolution of welcome to General Meade, and an invitation to himself and staff to seats upon the floor of the convention. An ordinance to declare illegal, null and void all notes, bonds, executions and contracts lor services or hire as substitutes in the Con federate army. An ordinance to declare null and void certain ordinances and resolutions heretofore passed by the people ot the State of Georgia in con vention. Mr. Bowers offered an ordinance in relation to the qualification of civil officers in the State. Mr. Burnett offered an ordinance lor the re lief of the people ol the State of Georgia. Mr. Clift offered an ordinance declaring the relations of the people of Georgia to ermnent of the United States. Mr. Bryant—A resolution to instruct the President to appoint a committee of seven on corporations, ant! a similar committee on reso lutions. Mr. Conley— An ordinance for the relief of the people of Georgia. Mr. Davis—A resolution to prevent the sale of spirituous liquors on days of election. Mr. Ashburn —-Resolutions asking national aid for material purposes, and recommending the railway system, and a recognition of the principle as set lorth by the National Railway League. Mr. lligby—An ordinance to establish home steads. Mr. Holcombe—A resolution to inquire into the authority by which members of this con vention bold their seats. Mr. Hotchkiss—A resolution to appoint a committee of five to wait upon Gen. Meade and inform him of the reassembling of the conven tion, and tendering to him and his staff seats in the hall; and to inform him that the conven tion will be pleased to receive any communica tion which he may desire to make. Mr. Hotchkiss gave notice of a motion to amend the ~lst rule by adding a Committee on Miscellaneous Matter. Mr. Maddox—An ordinance lor the relief of persons holding change bills issued by the Western and Atlantic Railroad. Mr. Richardson—An ordinance for the relief ol the people, and to protect them against fraud practiced upon them by lotteries. Mr. Trammell rose to a point of order, which was sustained by the President, when the lot tery resolution was ruled out of order. Mr. Strickland—A resolution requesting the continuance of the Freedmen’s Bureau. Mr. Trammell—A resolution to amend the 1 order of the clay by adding after the fifth order the following: “ 6th—Resolutions for a second reading and for final action.” Mr. Turner (negro)—A resolution to stay the collection of taxes. Mr. Wallace—A substitute for a resolution offered by Mr. Duuuiug relative to the removal ol the capital. The President decided that a substitute could only be offered when the origiual measure is taken up for final action, and that the forego ing i5 out of order. On motion of Mr. Blount, the rules were sus pended, and the following resolution offered by him was taken up : " Resolved, That a committee of three be ap pointed to wait upon Gen. Meade, and invite him to visit this convention at pleasure. That this convention do welcome hint in behalf ol the people of Georgia, as Commanding Gen eral of the Third Military District.” Mr. Bedford offered 'the following, which was introduced by Mr. Hotchkiss, as a substi tute for the foregoing, which was accepted bv Mr. Blount: “ Resolved, That a committee of live be ap pointed to wait upon Gen. Meade, the com mander of this district, and inform him that the coucention has reassembled according to ad journment, and tender to him and staff the priv ilege ol seats in this hall, and will be pleased to receive any communication he may desire to make.” Mr. Akerman offered the following as a sub stitute for the origiual and substitute: “ Resolved, That Major General Meade and his staff’ be invited to seats on the floor of this convention. “ Resolved , That a committee of live be ap pointed by the President to present the forcgo iQ K resolution to Gen. Meade, and to make it known to him that the convention welcomes him to this military district, and will take pleas ure in co-operating with him (to the extent of their power) in executing the reconstruction acts of Congress.” Adopted. On motion of Mr. Miller, the rules were sus pended, when he proposed to amend the rules of order by striking out the words, “Com mittee of the Whole ” and inserting in lieu thereof the words, “ Standing Committees.” Mr. McCoy offered as a substitute “ Reports of Staudiug Committees,” the same to be in serted as a distinct order. This was accepted and passed. Another unimportant amendment to the rules of order was passed. An ordinance to secure impartial suffrage on the ratification ol the constitution of Georgia was read the second time, and, on motion of Mr. Bryant, laid on the table until to-day. An ordinance in relation to vacating the civil offices of the State or Territory of Georgia, and for other purposes, which, on the 17th day of December, was taken up for a second read ru]e<* ont of order by the President, in r U F ae^a,n by a mistake for a second read infeii refld ’ was * 0n motion, made the special order for to-day. Cn ] led tbe attention of the con tention to the previous disposition of said or dinance, and moved the reconsideration of the action of this day thereon, in order that the i°oTpr a ev“l! g consistent. The motion did The following ordinances were read the second tune and referred, on motion to tv,„ Committee on Bill of Rights, to wit: An ordi nance by Mr. Murphy, to allow each head of a family in Georgia a homestead ; an ordinance by Mr. Stauford, intended as a substitute for the ordinances in relation to homesteads; an ordinance by Mr. Smith, of Coweta, on the subject of homesteads; an ordinance on the tatne subject by Mr. Chstters (negro); an ordi nauce by Mr. Dews on the same subject. The ordinance ol Mr. Bradley (negro) in re- lation to the qualification of voters in this State, and to secure homesteads to certain per sons, was read the second time, and, on mo tion of Mr. Richardson, referred to the Com mittee on Franchise. Ordinances for the relief ol the people of Georma offered by Messrs. Speer, Sherman and Blodgett, were read the second time and referred to the Committee on Relief. An ordinance by Mr. Crawfoid for the relief of creditors in this State was read the second time, and referred to the committee on relief. An ordinance to fix the salaries of officers of the State was ruled out of order. An ordnance to change the Senatorial Dis tricts and reduce the number ot Senators and Representatives in the General Assembly of Georgia was read the second time and referred to the Committee on the Legislative Depart ment. An ordinance to dissolve the Inferior Courts | of Georgia , and an ordinance lor the relief of ! certain debtors, were read and referred to the j Committee on the Judiciary. The following ordinance was ruled out of i order by the President: To give the General Assembly the power to fix the rates of charges of railroads. Several unimportant ordinances were read the second time and either ruled out of order 1 or referred to the appropriate committees, ! when the convention adjourned. Thursday, January 9, 1868. The convention met pursuant to adjourn ment—President Parrott in the Chair. Prayer by the Chaplain, and journal of the previous day read. 1 he first business that occupied the body was the reconsideration ol some unimportant' mat ters of yesterday’s proceedings. The committee appointed to wait upon Gen. Meade made a report through their chairman. The interview was a pleasant on« in every re- j spect, and the committee were impressed with * the belief that the Commanding General of this District would give satisfaction in the discharge of the difficult and delicate duties he had been called upon to discharge. L. N. Trammell submitted a report from the Committee on Privileges and Elections, which was adopted. Report of the Committee on Relief was pre sented (J. E. Bryant rose to a point of order, but was himself declared out of order) by John Harris, of Newton, which was laid upon the table until the minority should make tueir re port, notice being given that the same would be done to-day. Leaves of absence were granted to delegates Edwards and Daley. Report of the Committee on the Executive was presented by J. S. Bigbee ; after the read ing of which the rules were suspended to con sider a motion to print 500 copies of it, and to make it the special ouler for Monday next. — * This elicited some debate, in which R. H. Whitely, A. T. Akerman, T. P. Saffold, C. D. Davis, C. C. Richardson and J. L. Dunning par ticipated, when the latter clause of the motion was laid upon the table. An effort was made to take up the ordinance of G. W. Ashburn, submitted some time ago, to vacate all civil offices of the State. The Chair ruled the ordinance out of order, when the “ distinguished gentleman from Muscogee” appealed from the decision of the Chair, where upon an animated discussion took place be tween A. T. Akerman, J. E. Blount and others, when G. W. Ashburn withdrew his appeal. The roll was then called for the introduction of new matter, when Joseph Adkins offered an ordinance for the relief of the people of Geor gia. G. W. Ashburn (with his pet scheme a little changed in order to again put it forward under the head of new matter) offered an ordinance declaring vacant all the civil offices of the State of Georgia, and absolution attached thereto that said vacancies be filled by the convention. Mr. Trammell rose to a point of order, and declared that this was a resuscitation of the or dinance which previous action has disposed of. G. W. Ashburn replied that it was new mat-» ter! Mr. Trammell dissented, and insisted that it was an “ underground railway ” process by which G. W. Ashburn was endeavoring to keep his scheme before the convention. G. W. Ashburn replied that it was new mat ter, and claimed its reading. The Chair decided that the ordinance was out of order, when G. W. Ashburn appealed from the decision of the Chair. Arguments pro et con here ensued between Turner (negro), Ashburn, Bullock, et al re garding the powers of the Chair to make de cisions, the niceties of parliamentary usage, etc. Turner (negro) hoped the Chair would not decide the ordinance out of order. This con vention had the right to vacate the civil offices in Georgia, and to fill them with loyal men |sensation], and the question may as well be ■ now met fairly and squarely. Bryant, Conley and Bullock were all upon the floor at the same time. Bryant wanted the question laid over for the present. T. P. Saf told said he was out of order, but Bryant thought differently, and continued until G. W. Asburn interrupted him by calling for the question on his appeal. Bryant would not be interrupted—he was in order, etc. Mr. Hol combe regretted the disposition manifested by certain gentleman for the spoils, and was deal ing some sledgodhammer blows upon the fraud and corruption he could plainly see in G. W. Ashburn’s measure, when he wag called to order by C. H. Prince, of New England. Mr. Parrott, (temporarily out of the chair,) thought the ordinance was out of order, and hoped the convention would so decide. Mr. Holcombe made an effort to resume his remarks, but failed. Turner, (uegro) thought the convention was ** getting into a ridiculous condition.” [Laugh ter.] Mr. Holcombe again obtained the floor, and pursued his line of argument until C. H. Prince, of New England, again declared him out of order, but the Chair decided that such was not the case—that Mr. Holcombe was in legitimate discussion of the subject. The denunciations of the measure by Mr. 11. were bold and man ly. He charged that it was a nicely concocted scheme to get hold of the State Treasury and of the State Road ; it was spoils —the “ flesh pots”—that originated the ordinance, and it was his unwavering purpose to offer all the resistance in his power to a transaction so disgraceful. This convention should protect the whole people—the proposed measure would have the opposite effect. TApplause in the lobby, when the Chair stated that such demon strations would not be permitted.) W. F. Bowers, of Hart, offered to read a substitute, which tvas at Once ruled out of order. At this instant, and in the midst of considerable excitement, “ the question”—(that of sustaining the decision of the chair as to G. W. Ashburn’s ordinance being out of orderl — was vociferously called for as if to cry down the “ distinguished gentleman from Muscogee,” who had arisen in all his majesty, and in sten torian tones was replying to the remarks of Mr. Holcombe. [Confusion.] ; The vote on “ the question” being taken, the yeas and nays are as follows : 1 eas —Akerjnan, Angler, Bell, of Banks, Bowden, of Campbell, Bowden, of Monroe, Bigbee, Blount, Barnett, Caldwell, Cooper, Cobb, of Madison, Cole, CraWfbrd, Cot ting, Davis, Dunning, Dutinegab, Fields, Flynn, Fort, Foster, of Morgan, Foster, of Paulding, Gibson, Goodwin, Gove, Griffin, Harland, Har ris, of Newton, Harrison, of Carroll, Higdon, Hotchkiss, Houston, Holcomb, Hooks, Howe, Hudson, Hutcheson, Jordan, Keef, King, Knox, Lee, Linder, Maddox, Martin, of Carroll, Mar tin, of Calhoun, Martin, of Habersham, Mc- Coy, Miller, McWhorter, Moore, of White, Potts, Rice, Robertson, Saffold, Saulter, Smith, of Coweta, Smith, of Thomas, Speer, Shrops hire, Shumate, Trammel, Traywick, Wilbur, Whitely, Woody, Wooten, Waddell—6B. Nays —Adkins, Alexander, Anderson , Ash burn, Bedford, Bentley , Beaird, Baldwin, Beli,of Oglethorpe, Bowers, Bryant, Brown, Bracewell, Bryson, Bullock, Campell, Catching, Cassey, Clift, Chatters, Claiborne , Chambers, Cobb, of Houston, Costin,- Conley, Crane, Crayton , Crumley, Dinkins, Elliugton, Gilbert, Gould ing, Guilford , Harrison, of Hancock. Higbee, Hopkins, Jackson , Joiner, Jones, Lumpkin , Madden, Maul, Matthews, McHan, Minor, Moore, of Columbia, Noble, Palmer, Pope, Prince, Reynolds, Richardson, Rozar, Sikes, Shields, Seeley, Sherman, Smith, of Charlton, Stetrart, Supple, Stone, Strickland, Turner, \Vaitou, Haf/ace, Welch, Whitaker , White head, of Burke, Williams, Yeates—7o. (Ne gros in italics.) j Thus the convention overruled the decision of the President, who then decided that G. W. Ashburn’s ordinance was a matter of a legisla | tive character. From this decision B Cotilev I appealed, when J. E. Bryant moved that the whole matter be laid upon the table R. II Whitely obtained the floor, and oddo«- ed its further consideration. * J. E. Blount also opposed its further discus sion. t ( u C K. RiCh ? rdson ’ oi Maine * wanted to ask . ar } l a question, but the latter would not permit the interference ) Thomas Gilbert and G. W. Ashburn, togetb rnn7T F R- by C T biD T> ed effort ’ to tn wwmvf n‘ OUIIt ’ wl , ie ° Bl c °nley concluded thcChlir hU appea from the decision of G. W. Ashbnrn then withdrew his ordinance, and quiet was restored to the convention The reader will observe from the yea's and nays that the convention is nearly evenly di vided upon the question ot vacating the civil offices of the State. The call of the roll being resumed for the in troduction of new business, G. W Ashburn presented a resolution for the election of a print er to the convention. Also, an ordinance for the relief of the people of Georgia. r. Bell, of Banks, introduced a resolution that no new matter on the subject of relief be introduced after to-day. Mr. Bullock asked for a suspension of the rules to introduce a resolution, upon which he desired immediate action, as the Congress 0 f the United States was now in session The resolution appoints a committee ot seven to memorialize Congress, setting forth the names of Georgians who have prominently aided in reconstruction, and are consequently entitled to Congressional clemency, and to ask that the political disabilities ol ail such be removed Unanimously adopted. This was amended by a resolution creating sub-committees, whose business it should be come to furuish names as above to the main committee. The call of the roll for new business was re sumed. Air. Bi_rbee offered a resolution, in regard to the bill of rights. G. W. Chatters (negro) offered an ordinance that negroes shall enjoy all the privileges of white persons at hotels, railway trains board ing houses, <&c. The Chair ruled this out of order as matter of a legislative character. B. Conley offered a resolution, as follows : Resolved, That the Committee ou Finance be directed to report an ordinance confirming all acts passed by the Legislature acting under au thoi itv of the constitution of 1865, creating*, and issuing bonds for the purpose ot paying the indebtedness of the State, (and for other pui poses) without hereby recognizing the au thority of said Legislature, or the validity of said convention. Referred to Finance Committee, i o Pk' ns sen t in a communication that tie could borrow 840,000 for the use of the con tention, and that he coulffjiave it ready in ten days. J W. C. Lee offered a resolution for the relief of the debtors of Georgia; also, for the relief of tax payers. E. I. Higbee A resolution on the elective franchise question. ■b Jac^ SOn . (near o ) offered an ordinance with the following caption: “Instruction for the Govment ol Millishia for the State of Gor gie.” Mr. Martin, Os Habersham, presented a reso lution requesting the Legislature to inquire into the expediency ot selling the Western and Atlantic Railroad. The rules were suspended to consider a reso lution stopping all sheri ff’’s sales of property, and authorizing the printing of copies of the same, to be sent to all the sheriffs of the State. I Ins was adopted. S,.mes L Dunning offered a resolution to the effect that the Governor of Georgia and the treasurer, having disregarded the order of this convention, endorsed by Gen. Pope, to furnish money iiom the Treasury of the State for the payment of the per diem of members and other expenses, it is unwise to make other negotia tions until the pending question as to where the power lies shall be determined. Referred to Jnnance Committee. A resolution by S. T. W. Minor to relieve Cel n l^ lll ze i n s ot Georgia of their disabilities. Mr. Parrott (out of the chair) offered a reso lution requesting Congress to repeal the Test Oath. It set forth that the Test Oath is not con ductive to the harmony and peace of the United oLites. W. H. Rozar presented an ordinance that all people of the South lately in rebellion had for feited all rights and immunities guaranteed by the Constitution, and that all contracts made during the existence of that rebellion are forever null and void. M. Turner (negro) offered a resolution that absent members of the convention shall not receive pay. This was withdrawn. Leaves of absence were granted to W. W. Dews and L. H. Roberts. A Committee on Corporations was appointed. *’ a ' ton offered an ordinance for the re lief of purchasers of slaves. Dr. N. L. Angier, disbursing officer of the convention, made a report that he had had an interview with General Meade with regard to the payment of the per diem of members, and other expenses ombe convention, that he was cleai ly of the opinion that the money should come out of the Treasury of Georgia, and that he would at an early day take steps to remove all obstacles now in the way. This informa tion was received with loud applause lay the convention. A motion for adjournment then prevailed. Friday, January 10, 1868. Convention met at 10 o'clock—the President in the chair. Prayer bj 7 the Chaplain, and the journal of the previous day read and con firmed. J. L. Dunning offered a resolution to*the ef fect tnat as Gen. Aleade had signified his inten tion to visit the hall of this convention to-day, a committee of three be appointed to receive and conduct him to a seat ou the right of the chair. Ihe rules were suspended for the adop tion of this resolution, and the selection 6 f said committee, which consisted of J. L. Dun ning, O. H. Walton and A. W. Holcombe. The Secretary then proceeded to call the roll for the introduction of new business, when J. R. Parrott (out of the chair) asked for a sus pension ot the rules that he might Introduce a resolution or ordinance to prevent sheriff’s from the levy and sale of property. He stated that said officers, in open defiance of the pre vious action of this body, were exposing at public outcry the property of a helpless peo ple, and continued at some length iu the sup- P ol ' l bt his measure. Permission was granted aud Air. Parrott’s ordinance was read. H. V. M. Miller opposed its passage on the score of hasty legislation. It was an important matter, and should be w T ell considered. He wanted it referred to the Judiciary Committee. J. L. Dunning also opposed hasty and incon siderate action on a subject of so much impor tance. T. J. Speer was opposed to it, but would move that 200 copies of it be printed, and that it be made a special matter for to-morrow. J. R. Parrott urged its adoption. The sheriffs had treated with contempt the authority of this convention, and were seizing and selling the property of the people. He wanted a stop put to it. The ordinance made it a penal offense on the part of sheriffs to disobey, and such action would have the desired effect. If they under stood that a fine or dismissal from office would follow further disobedience of this convention’s instructions, there would be an end to sheriff’s operations. Thomas Gilbert urged its adoption. P. B. Bedford said the people wanted relief— the sheriffs were standing at their door—this convention should restrain them. He hoped the ordinance would pass, and regretted that earlier action had not been taken—much dis tress may have been averted. Aaron Alpeoria Bradley desired to say some thing on the subject. He was in favor of tbe ordinance, but doubted if its simple passage would avail anything. He had talked with able lawyers in the State on the subject. The desired end might be reached in another way &c. UpoD motion, the ordinance was made the special order lor Monday next. J. R. Parrott offered a resolution that all the committees on the constitution have2oo copies of their reports printed. This would have the effect of systematizing all the matter gotten up by them, and a general facilitating of business would be the result. The resolution also made it the duty of the committees to report at as early a day as practicable. J. E. Bryant fancied that he could see in the resolution a purpose to “gag’ members of this convention. He wanted it laid upon the table. * H. K. McCay wanted the resolution amended and— C. C. Richardson rose to a point of order, hut H. K. McCay was permitted to continue.— There was room for improvement, &c. J. R. Parrott desired specially to urtre the passage ot his resolution. It did not propose to “ gntr” any man. There would be ample time and opportunity to discuss the reports ot the committees. J. H. Caldwell could see no necessity tor such a resolution. It would cut off a full and free discussion of the reports of said committees, ar»u he was opposed to that. The gentleman spoke at considerable length. If was a com plete “ dysentery of words and constipation of ideas. He killed a vast amount ot time and t was suggested that he evidently supposed himself 10 a clerical position at a protracted camp meeting. C. D. Davis thought too much time has been wasted m the discussion, and indulged in some sensible suggestions in iavor of the resolution. thought such a measure would facilitate bu siness. The resolution was postponed. , ; ■ Ashburn offered an ordinance on the subject of personal rights—a long, witffiy docu ment—consmnihg about one quire of foolscap ibis was laid upon the table, and 500 copies of it ordered to be printed. A ;J-T A b' ermai1 ' chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary, presented the majority report of that committee, which was laid upon the ta ble, and 500 copies ordered to be printed. R. H. Whiteley desired to make known his dissent, being a member of the committee, from the report made by A. T. Akernaan, and read a minority report, which took the same direction as the other. J. R. Hudson asked to have read to the con vention a letter from one of his constituents whose grievances appeared to be numerous’ lrom the said letter. He was a Union man dunng the war—had been compelled to take Gonferatc money—was now poor, and wanted the onventiou to give relief to persons in his siti ,<tion. W- T. Catching offered an ordinance for tho relief of the debtors of Georgia. G. W. Ashburn offered a resolution that the convention be clothed with the same power as that of the military district commander and the Congress of the Uuited States be petition ed by this body to grant that power. G. W. Ashburn also asked to have read to the convention a private letter from John Sher man, member of Congress. This letter set forth that the Georgia convention should have all the power it wanted from the United States Con gress—that Congress would legislate to any ex tent for the convention’s benefit. The conven tion could make- its demands—they would be complied with. G. W. Ashburn then asked for a suspension of the rules that his resolution might be taken up. R. H. Whitely opposed it. G W. Ashburn insisted that his resolution should be taken up at once. He would not conceal his purpose. It was vitally important to remove without delay all obstacles to recon stiuction, and the passage of his resolution would ultimately accomplish that end. The lules were suspended, when an effort was made to lay the resolution upon the table. J. E. Bryant opposed it. Now was the time to act. He wanted a disloyal State government removed and a loyal one put in its stead. Con gress could and would give this convention the power if a ;ked to do so. He wanted officials who would obey the instructions of this con vention—this representative body of the so vereign people ot Georgia. John Harris, of Newton, wanted to state his position. Several votes cast by him recently had created the impression that he was oppos ed to the removal of certain State officials Such was not the case, and he desired now to place it upon record that he was iu favor of at once removing all officials who are obstructing the reconstruction laws. J. L. Dunning stated that it was a singular coincidence that he now had in his possession letters from three distinguished members ot Gongi ess, all of them asking '•'•what does the convention Want,” to enable it to go on in the good work of restoring Georgia to the Union ? if anj further legislation was necessary—or any more power wanted—it should be prompt ly given for the asking. Mr. Dunning favored the resolution of G. W. Ashburn, and hoped the convention would pass it, thereby asking Gongress for the power now wanted, and winch has been generously proffered by several members. J - H. Caldwell said the country was ‘‘groau ing in agony’’—treason was rampant in the land, and we must suppress it —we must act, and act at once. "l.he resolution was an eminently proper one. This great country must be snatch ed from hands that are pulling it down to de struction, and— Here the Chair announced that Gen. Meade and his staff were in waiting at the door, when the spread-eagle orator” subsided, and the committee went out to conduct the distinguish ed visitor in. The convention arose en masse as General Meade, accompanied by Col. Eraorv, Col. Meade, Captain McKibben, Gen. Dunn, Gen. baxon and Gol. Meline, entered the hall. Upon being escorted to the right of the Chair, Gen. Meade was cordially welcomed by the Presi dent, and formally introduced to the conven i°n. The following is his address in substance: ie desired to thank the convention for its courteous reception of him. He has been sent y the commander-in-chief of the army, at the instance of the President, to execute a military Jill passed by the Congress of the United i~ a .f 8 ' , , a s °ldier, his duty was plain, and he should not travel out of" the instructions em iraced in that bill. As to its legality he *new nothing, and it did not become him to inquire. It was his business to obey instruc tions, and those were to see that its measures were carried out. His position was an embar rassing one in coming among straugers to per oi m difficult and delicate duties. He had no acquaintance with any one in the military dis tucthe had been sent to command. Had never been in it before save merely to pass through. He would endeavor to faithfully per orm his duties, and hoped the whole people would be benefitted thereby, and content with his action when his mission among them had ended. He hoped the convention would be jusi and moderate in its deliberations ; and that it "would frame a constitution which everybody could endorse. The military bill left it option al with the people to aefiept or not the consti tution framed by the convention, and it was his firm purpose to see that they, without in terference, should express their assent or dis sent when it was submitted to them. He did not consider that any action ot the conven tion —its ordinances and resolutions —was legal and binding until the same had been ratified by the people, and approved by the President and Congress; yet, under the peculiar circum stances, and anomalous state of affairs in the fetate, he might give vitality to 6ome measures when it was made apparent to him that the good of the people demanded it. In this con nection Gen. Meade made allusion to the sub ject of relief. Again thanking the convention ‘Or attentions shown him, and indulging the hope that his relations with it might be har monious, Gen. Meade retired to the floor of the convention. These remarks of Gen. Meade were alter nately applauded by the convention and those in the lobby. At its conclusion, the conven tion took a recess of fifteen minutes, to enable the members to pay their respects to him, when each and all were in tnrn introduced by the President. The convention was called to order, when J. I H. Caldwell resumed his speech upon G. W. Ashburn’s resolution. He said the country was in an “ agony of suspense” to be freed from the thraldom of disloyalty. Every loyal heart in the State would pulsate with joy at the pas sage ot such a resolution. The reporter cannot follow J. H. Caldwell in his sublime flights He reared, plunged, and pawed the ground.— He pulled the American eagle all around, and wrapped himself up in the “ stars and stripes,” and thrilled the whole assemblage. G. W. Ashburn rose in support of bis resolu tion, but was called to order by L. N. Tram mell, who in turn was called to order by the Chair, when G. W. Ashburn resumed. He was opposed to delay in the matter. Gov. Jenkins was in the way of this convention, and must be removed. A passage of this resolution would doubtless secure an end so desirable, &c. C. D. Davis, of Walton, wanted to’ say sorae thing. The military bill was the death warrant of civil government in the Slate, and we must not permit any interference from it. We can not dany with the enemy—remove him! He re ‘V l - , to vote upon the resolution—the !, OI T t \ l - lt WOulil secure was wanted at once. n H WaB ,- <I - e ? ounced in bitter terms as a hair-brained politician, and it was the duty ot this convention to remove all such obstacles - He respected Gov. Jenkins for his private worth but fidelity to the people we repreJent demands that the track should be cleared ot him, and let us do it at once. The civil gover - luent of Georgia must go down or this conven tiou must go down. This is inevitable. Wt* cannot make terms with our enemy. His knife is at our throat we canuot temporize—awav with all such. J (Here Gen. Meade left the hall, followed bv those who accompanied him.) G. W. Ashburn attempted to speak, but was ruled out ot order. Likewise J. H. Caldwell. L. N. Trammell opposed the resolution in a speech ot some length, during the delivery of tt hich several attempts were made to interrupt hira. He boldly charged that the Ashburn reso lotion was an effort on the part ot the conven tion to wrest from Gen. Meade the power and authority given to district commanders bv the military bill, and usurp it themselves. 'Such was unquestionably the purpose, else why ask Congress to clothe the convention with"egi«zJ power. He said it was a gross insult to that distinguished soldier, for a want ol confidence in him was plainly implied, and lie challenged a refutation of the charge. He was opposed to the lesolution of G. W. Ashburn, and had a substitute to offer, and such was its character that the true status of the convention would be fixed. There was no dodging it —he would make the issue very plain. Mr. Trammell then read his substitute, as follows: “ Resolved, That onr confidence in the firm ness ability and fidelity of Major General Geo. G. Meade is full and complete; that we hereby expiess our opinion that he comes among us to execute the laws of the United States ; that his powers are ample and complete, and thai he has the. will to effect the restoration of the State to its full relations as a State of the Union.” Mr. Trammell continued to hold the floor in support of his substitute, and he intended to force the convention to either vote it down, lay it on the table, or “ shirk it ” by calling for the “previous question.” It was his firm purpose so compel them to define their true position. If his substitute was voted down, tabled, or evaded in any way, then Gen. Meade would at once understand that the convention would not trust him. If his substitute was accepted, then it would be plain to every mind that their confi dence in Gen. Meade was “lull and complete,” and hence no necessity lor Congress to i>;ive the convention equal power with him. Efforts were made by Aaron Alpeoria Brad ley (negro), J. E. Bryant, C. C. Richardson, C. u. Prince and P. B. Bedford to interrupt Mr. Trammell, but the Chair permitted him to re tain the floor in advocacy of his substitute un til the hour for adjournment had arrived.— Mr. Trammell is entitled to the floor at the opening this morning, and will doubtless press his measure to a solution. Adjourned to 10 o’clock to-day. [From the Charleston News. Another Outrage by Negroes. K MAIL CARRIER FIRED AT BY A GANG OF UNION LEAGUERS—IIE ELIES FOR IIIS LIFE—A NAR ROW ESCAPE. A deliberately planned outrage was perpe trated by a gang of negroes on Tuesday last on the road between Ridgeville, a station on the line ot the South Carolina Railroad, thirty-one miles from Charleston, and Vance’s Ferry, on the Santee river. The mail for the Santee section is taken up on the train to Ridgeville, where it is met by the mail carrier, who rides with it to the places of its destination. On Tuesday morning Alex ander Kopp, the mail carrier, met the train as usual, received the mail bag, and started off on horseback towards Vauce’s Ferry. The morn ing was perfectly clear, and, after he had ridden several miles, Mr. Kopp saw that a gang of negro men were standing near the road This did not a.arm hira, and lie rode on quietly until he approached them, when he gradually 'slack ened his speed. The negroes, who nad been talking together, sepai ated as Mr. Kopp drew nigh, and when he was within a few yards of them they raised their and two of the number fired. One shot passed through the sleeve of Mr. Kopp’s coat, and the other through the mail-bag, but ; Ir. Kopp drew his revolver and attempted, to nre, each cap unfortunately snapping as the hammer fell. Being unarmed and surrounded by a gang of murderous negroes, Mr. Kopp determined to take refuge in flight; and, in a moment, was traveling towards Ridgeville as fast as his horse could run. He met with no further molestation, but reported the facts of the case, which were afterwards communicated by the mail contractor, Mr. Thomas L. Jacques, to General Ilinks, Provost Marshal General of the second military district. As the outrage took place in broad daylight Mr. Kopp could see distinctly by whom he was attacked. The whole gang consisted of ne £r£<^8 ’ or five of them wore the badge oj the Loyal Union League Mr. Kopp saw every one, and will be able, it is hoped, to iden tn v any ot them whom he may meet. Outrages by the negroes are now becoming both serious and frequent. It seems that the country districts will soon be unsafe for any traveler, and there are not enough troops in the United States to guard every mile of road m South Carolina. A thorough and general disarming of the negroes, in every districr where there has been any disturbance, is the only available way of checking the growing evil, and this course is again urged upon the attention of the general commanding this dis trict. No honest negro will object to being disarmed, and in such times as these it is more than ever necessary that every provocation to bloodshed and confusion should be avoided or stamped out of existence. The possession of deadly weaj ons is a prolific cause of murder ous attacks, and, now that the warning has been given, the military authorities must take the responsibility of any outbreak that may arise from a failure on their part to act promptly wisely and well. Later particulars. A hdy who came down from Ridgeville yes terday evening gives some additional parti culars of the attack upon the mail carrier be tween Ridgeville and Vance’s Ferry. The mail carrier, Mr. Kopp. is about eighteen years old. When be reached the negroes, they demanded the surrender of the mail. Mr. Kopp peremptorily refused, and the negroes then said that they would take the mail by force.— Mr. Kopp replied that he was armed and would defend himself, and the negroes then fired.— When Mr. Kopp found that his pistol would not fire, he turned his horse and ran. Two bullets were found in the mail pouch, they not having had sufficient force to carry them through the mass of letters and papers wi ich it contained. There were four negroes in the party. They were all armed, and each of them wore the blue badge of the Union League. French and English Surgery —lt is told of the late Bir Astley Cooper that, on visiting Paris, he was asked by the surgeon en chef of the Empire how many times he had performed a wonderful feat of surgery. He replied that he performed the operation thirteen times.— “ Ah, but, Monsieur, I have done him one hun dred and sixty time. How many times did you save his life ?” continued the curious French man, after he looked into the blank amasement of Sir Astley’s face. “ I,” said the Englishman, “ saved eleven out of the thirteen. How many did yon save ont of one hundred and sixty ?” “ Ah, Monsieur, I lose dem all, but de opera tion was very brVlante .” Accident.—The Bparta Newt says: We were pained to learn that our friend and fellow-citi zen, Mr. Q. F. Pierce, Jr., was accidentally shot daring the Christmas holidays, the ball taking effect in the upper part of his abdomen, bnt fortunately took a favorable direction for his early recovery. We are glad to know that he is > quiet and comfortable. Conservative Meeting in Columbia County. ArrLiNG, Columria Cos., Georgia, ) January 7, 1868. ’ $ In accordance with tho call in the papers sot a meeting of the Conservative citizens of this county, manj|of the most respecta ble citizens met this day at the court house for the purpose of perfecting the or ganization of the “ Columbia County Con servative Club,’ and ratifying the action of the Macon Convention. On motion of Dr. J. S. Jones. Dr. II K Casey was called to the chair and 8. C. Lamkin requested to act as secretary. Ou motion of Dr. Jones, the chair ap pointed a committee of five to report busi ness for the action of the meeting. The chair appointed the foliowing committee: Dr. ,T. S. Jones, John Lamkin, Gen. C. S. Draue, S. A. Gibson and J. N. Heggie. The chairman of the committee, Dr. Jones, handed in the following resolutions, which were read and unanimously adopted: Jxcsolred , That the founders of this Gov ernment never intended that it should be suiieudeted to the control and manage ment of the ne£ro race, but created and placed the same in the hands of the whites \\! it- 1 e it, ought now and forever hereafter remain. That while we are willing to concede to the colored people of the South all necessary*and reasonable rights and privileges, we are of the opinion that the ne gro,so receutly releasd from slavery,w ithout education, and entirely ignorant of the du ties and responsibilities of citizenship, are totally unlit to exercise the elective fran chise; and to place in their hands the ballot box with the right to make laws for the government of the country would be an act ol political madness, unwarranted by history, repugnant to civilization and fatal to republican liberty. We do, {therefore, most earnestly protest against this insane effort now being made to prostitute the government founded by our ancestors to the shame and disgrace of negro suprema cy ; and pledging ourselves to use every legal and peaceable effort to avert the con summation of so great a calamity, we call upon all good citizens to assist and join us in the noble work of preserving our Gov ernment in its original purity. Resolved, That in the recent acts of his Excellency, Andrew Johnson, President of the United States, in relieving the South of certain military commanders w T ho were transcending their authority and oppress ing the people, and in his sound and states manlike expressions of opinion in regard to the same, w r e recognize evidence of true patriotism and justice to a conquered and helpless people. Resolved, That we hereby create and establish the “Columbia County Conserva tive Club,” the officers of which shall con sist of a President, two Vice-Presidents and a Secretary, to continue in office for tw T clve months; the President, or in his ab sence the Vice-Presidents, to have authori ty to convene the club whenever he or they may deem it necessary ; and that each civil district in the county be organized by the selection or such sub-committees as may be necessary. Resolved , That it is the sense of this meet ing that the people of Georgia are under obligations to President Johnson for the decapitation of Gen. Pope, and that w r e, as a part of the people, hereby tender to his Excellency our thanks for the same; and to His Highness, John Pope, we say : “Good bye, John,” and joy go with you, hindquar ters “ in the saddle” and headquarters out side the limits of the State of Georgia- After the adoption of the above resolu tions, Dr. Jones arose and made some very able remarks, urging the people to resist to the utmost the unconstitutional enactments which are now being forced upon the people. On motion of Dr. Jones, Dr. 11. R. Casey was unanimously. chosen President of the Conservative Club of Columbia county. On motion of J. N. Heggie, Dr. J. T. Jones and J. P. Williams were chosen Vice- Presidents, and S. C. Lamkin, Secretary. On motion of Capt. Wm. Johnston, a roll for the record of the names of the members present was prepared, and the Secretary authorized to receive the names of all white male adults who are favorable to the ad vancement of the good work in which wc are now engaged. The meeting adjourned subject to the call of the Chairman. H. R. Casey, Chairman. S. C. Lamkin, Secretary. The Blood op Pocahontas.—Yuba Dam, the clever satirist of the Louisville Courier , is afraid that the blood of Poca hontas will never runout. In a late letter he thus expresses himself on the subject: Asa matter of public interest I hope the next census taker will record the number of the descendants of Pocahontas in a separate column. It should be done in order that the Anglo Saxon portion of our nation may know what a debt of population, gratitude and first families they owe to that eminent squaw. A large number of the beautiful and sprightly ladies of the south claim to be lineal descendants of the daughter of Powhatan. It is a curious fact that the progeny of that angelic savage are mostly females. We rarely’- meet a man who claimis to have Indian blood in his veins. And why it is that our belles are so anxious to have it understood that they are a dilution of Indian, we are at a loss to understand. — They are a hateful and repulsive lot, as blood-thirsty and cruel as tigers of the jungle; and ugly and loathsome as the crocodile of the Nile, and as untamable as the grizzly bear. Because our girls paint, wear feathers and various kinds of wampum, and mani fest a disposition to go naked, they are not necessarily to be classified as a mild type of Indian. We prefer to attribute these eccentricities to a freak of fashion, rather that to a streak of Indian. We shall claim them for our nation until they insist upon hceing corn, tanning skins and fetching the mud and other materials for the construc tion of our-wigwams. It will then be time enough to acknowledge “ Spotted Tail” for a cousin, and “Bloody Snake” for our brother-in-law. What Our Baby Did. —-The other day Nettie was eighteen months old, and she celebrated the event in the following style, with a regularity and promptness which almost defies competition: Ist, Upset a quart of milk on her bran new flannel gown. 2d, Put the hair brush in the slop-tub. 3d, Took a spoon from the table and plastered the carpet and floor with soft lard, and then wiped it off with the clean dress just put upon her4th, did not “ string spools on the cat’s tail”but took another form of expressing her devotion to that pet, by trying to cram it into her father’s boot. sth, Found her way into the pantry and upset the kerosene into a pan of meal that had just been sifted for use ; and to cap the climax, greased her little red shoes with the mixture. 6th, Ate some bread and milk and went off to sleep. These things were done in spite of careful watching and (as we have since learned by experience) is but a fair sample of her every day life. Babies are mischievous! What can a mother do -with three or four little fellows at a time and keep the house in order? We’ve resolved never to find fault If supper isn’t ready just at the right time. [Monroe ( Wti.) Sentinel.
