Newspaper Page Text
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Straljrcrn Cljristian AViitctti.
M ICON,GEORGIA, DECEMBER 12.1876
ABSENCE.
The editor, after getting the outside of this
issue of the paper ready for press, and pre
paring as much copy as was practicable for
the inside, left for Sparta, the seat of the
North Georgia Conference. Almost imme
diately upon his return from the Conference,
he will leave tor Chester, the seat of the
Fouth Carolina Conference, so that he will
be absent for some lime from the office of
the paper —a fact which correspondents and
readers will please keep in mind, in case
any irregularities should threaten their
peace of mind.
FLORIDA CONFERENCE.
We are requeued by Bishop Pierce to state
that the session of the Florida Conference
will begin on Thursday morning, January
11, as published. Brethren will b*arin mind
that Thursday, and not Wednesday, is the
day for meeting
THE SITUATION.
At the time of this writing (December 6tb
p. m.) it is believed that the electoral votes
of South Carolina, Florida, and Louisiana,
have all been cast for the Republican candi
date. This action, however, contribu'es lit
tle to the abatement of the disquietude and
anxiety which for weeks have filled the pub
lic mind, and shed a blight upon the prosper
jty of the country. The methods pursued
by the several Returning Boards, have been
such a-i to incur the scorn and invoke the
denunciation of many of the best men in
both parties; nnd success secured by such
means, can hardly he other than short-lived.
From the school-hoys’ play-ground, all the
way up to the Presidential arena, there is
Dree in the homely maxim. “ Cheating nev
er thrives.” It, may w n a temporary tri
umph, but is destined in the long run to dis
astrous defeat. The prospect now is, that
the debilitating suspense of the past month
is to stretch over the intervening period be
tween this and the 4th of March. This con
flict must ha settled finally in the halls of
Congress. I.et us hope that it may be ac
complisbed to the satisfaction of all parties,
and so as to conserve the peace and pros
purity of the country
in the meantime, it would be just es well
for up, as individuals, to remember that no
amount of fretting on our part will affect the
issue in the least, aud that therefore we will
consult our own interests by dismissing the
subject as well as we may from our minds,
and devo'ing ourselves assiduously to the re
ligious and business duties which claim our
attention, and which perhaps have been suf
fering from recent neglect. Leaving the set
tlement of the Presidential question to the
chosen leader,, and the destiny of the coun
try to the guidance of Almighty God, lei
the rank and file of 'he population, turn
their thoughts and energies in other direc
tions.
MEMORIAL SERVICES AT TRINITY
t iit itni, savannah, ua.
We had marked for insertion the extracts
from an article in the Savannah Morning
News of Monday, Dec. 4, which appear he
low. when we received the following letter
from Rev. G. G. N. MaeDonell, which we
take the liberty of publishing without alter
ation :
Savannah. Ga., Dec. sth, 1870.
My Dear Brother Kennedy: 1 have in
tended writing you a lull account of the Me
morial Seivces, held in Tiinity Church
Sunday last, in honor of our beloved dead,
but I have so many demands made upon my
time that l trust refer you to the published
aucount in the Morning News ofMonday.
In addition to ‘he ministers present, e.s re
ported—Rev. C. B. King, of the Presbyte
rian Church, and Rev. Mr. Harris, Hebrew
Ilabhi were sealed in the chancel.
The occasion was a most solemn and im
pressive one, and will linger long in the
memory of those who were there.
The Communion service which followed
the Memorial exercises was a most solemn
and delightful occasion, and yet sad, as we
missed many dear familiar faces of brethren
and sisters, who had often received with ns
the emblems of the Redeemer’s sacrifice.
The morning service closed with the recep
tion of five members into the fellowship ot
the'Church by Brother Wynn.
My emotions on entering the Church, and
beholding the mournful drapery which
shrouded the pulpit, and other parts of the
house, were deep and tender, and I hastened
to the pulpit, and gave vent to my burdened
heart with tears.
The afternoon services were the most try
ing and affecting. Many prominent mem
bers of other churches and their pastors
were present, and the deepest feeling seem
ed to prevade ‘he entire audience. I hope
that impressions for good were made, deep
and lasting, the fruits of which will be gatlr
ered hereafter.
A> night I preached to a larg- congrega
tion at Wesley Church, and tried to improve
the occasion by directing the ntinds of the
people to some of the important lessons to
be learned from this visitation of God's af
flictive providence. The Quarterly Confer
ence last night was aDo a sad and impres
sive one. Several of our official brethren
spoke with warm and tender emotions of the
virtues aud labors of their beloved pastor.
Resolutions of respect and condolence were
passed which will be sent to the Southern
Christian Advocate for publication.
Bro. Wynn's health has improved very
mucli; but his beloved companion is still
feeble, although slowly improving.
There have been a few deaths from fever
since the close of the epidemic, but the
freezing weather we are having will most
likely destroy all germs of malarial poison.
The city has resumed its usual business
like appearance, and the people are becom.
ing more cheerful and hopeful.
Hoping to see you soon, I remain frater
nally yours, Geo G. N. MacDoneei..
The following is the article from the News,
entire, with the exception of some para
graphs which have already appeared in these
columns:
Yesterday morning and afternoon memo
rial services in Trinity Methodist Church
were and voted to the memory of the members
of Trinity and Wesley Churches who had
died during the recent epidemic, and its
loved and lamented pastor, Rev. E. H.
Myers, D. D., who heroically fell at his post
of duty.
The church was very tastefully decorated
by the ladies in the habiliments of mourning.
The pillars at the altar were wrapped with
black bands from the floor to the ceiling, the
wh'te alternating with the black bands. The
pillars throughout the church were similarly
draped. The pulpit was hung in mourning,
and thegalleriis on either side were likewise
decorated their entire lengths. These mourn
ful decorations showed careful preparation
and taste, and presented a touching sight,
which well reflected the sad feeling of the
large congregation of friends who filled the
edifice.
The services in the morning were conduc
ted by Rev. A. M. Wynn Pastor of Wesley,
and Rev. Mr. MaeDonell, and were of an
exceedingly pathetic charac er. During the
epidemic Trinity and Wesley suffered the
loss of thirty-one members and several Sun
day-school scholars. The remarks were of
a character exclusively appropriate to the
solemn occasion. Tne loss sustained by the
Church and reiaiives and friends in the sum
moniug to another' sphere of so many usetul
members and lotted ones, was dwelt upon
wih deep pathos. To refer to each one
would be impossible, but we cannot forbear
mentioning a few words in regard to the
death of little Ludie Walker, one o 1 ’ the
most promising scholars of the Sabbath
school, who. though but eight years ot age,
possessed ' faith sufficient to remove moua
tains.”
In the afternoon at three o’clock the me
morial services in honor of Rev. Dr. Myers
look place. The church was densely crown
ed, and on the part, of the congregation we
noticed many members of other denomina
tions who had enjoyed the acquaintance of
lie distinguished clergyman, and woo ioved
and admired his Christian character.
Within the altar railing were Rev. Dr.
Ax son, of the independent Presbyterian
Church ; Rev. J. B. Reimensnyder, of the
Lut"eran Church; Rev. Mr. McFarland. of
the First Presbyterian Church ; Rev. Timo
thy Harley, of the Baptist. Church; Rev.
Richard Webb, chaplain of the Seamen’s
Beth-1; Rev. A. M - yiin, pastor of Wesley
Church ; anti Rev. Mr. MacDonell, Presid
ing Elder.
The services were opened by Rev. Mr.
McFarlai and, who read out the hymn, “Fune
ral of a Christian Brother,” which was sung
with grea' fervor, and was followed by an
earnest and appiopnate prayer from Kev.
Mr. Webb.
The congregation then sung the hymn en
titled ‘ Funeral of a Minister,” which was
read with much impressiveness by Rev. Mr.
McFarland.
Scriptural lessons appropria'e to the mo
merit were read by Rev. Mr. Reimensnyder,
and were followed by the singing of the hymn
•‘Jerusalem, my Happy Home.”
Rev. Mr. MacDoneil, the Presiding Elder,
then delivered an eloquent and b-autiful ad
dress apon the general character of the de
ceased brother and pas >or, which was listen
ed to with the deepest a tendon.
He wa- followed by Dr. Axson, who spoke
briefly and feelingly of his connection with
Dr. Myers, an t paid a high tribute to his
Christian character, nobiliiy of heart, anu
rare abilities.
Rev. Mr. Harley next addressid the con
gregation, and paid a glowing eulogy to the
moral worth and u*etui life of the lamented
clergyman. He was followed b. Rev. Mr.
A. hi. Wynn, whose association witu the de
ceased was of the most intimate nature and
who had stood by him amidst the same dan
gers in the dbctiarge of the duties of their
holy offices. Mr. Wynn was very visibly
affected (us indeed had been the ot ier cler
gymen who preceded him) during his ad
dress, and bis voice trembled with emotion
iu speaking ot his beloved co-laborer. He
reviewed the deceased's connection with
Trinity, the zeal and iiielity with which he
had entered upon ms unties on coming here
among a congregation, to the majority ol
whom he was unknown, as a pastor, and how
be had won ail hearts. His comictnon won
the Commission of Iho Methodist Episcopal
Uuurcn, -Soutli, which assembled in Cape
May, in June last, was referred to, and tne
interest that he had manifested in the object
■iwidl upon.
He described the heroic conduct of tb
deceased during the heart-rending scenes
oi the epidemic, his utter unselfishness and
total disregard of all personal interests, his
heart and soul being in the worK of ollevia
ling distress and uiinisteriug to the spinluai
comfort ot the sica and dying.
Mr. Wynn’s remarks had ihe earnest at
tention of the entire congrcga ion Here
viewer! his associations with ms Irieiia and
broiber, aud his language anil voice betosen
ed bow deeply his heart was stirr and, and
touched his in arers to that degree as to (Iras
tears to the eyes of many.
After tins address the congregation sa ig
>ne verse of that beaulilul nymn, ' i Would
Not Live Always,’ and the Doxology, Rev.
Air. Hailey closing the solemn aud impres
sive services with ihe benediction.
FORTY FEET OF DEAD SPACE.
Waen every pew iu a churcu is full we
understand wliy s line persons sit upon ihe
rear benchei; there are no others. But
when half the pews are empty we do not, see
our way to explain the fact that so many
people seem to prefer the rear benches. In
this matter there seems to be a difference
beiweeu town and country congrega ions.
In the country, for the most part, the stna'l
congregation gathers rig it around the pul
pit; iu the ci'y, lor the most part, it scat
ters itself away Iron the pulpit. And it is
particularly true of small city congregations
at night—they get as far from tiie pulpit as
they can. Whether they are trying to get out
of range, or whether they simply prefer, on
such occasions, the door end of the Church,
we do not understand. This we have ob
served : the more fashionable the congrega
tion the closer does it hug the back benches.
Last night, December 3, we addressed a
mixed congregation Methodists, Pres byte
riuns, Baptists, uni some others. The house
was about half full, and the full end was the
end farthest from the pulpit. There was not
a hearer in the “ ameu corners.” As we
looked at our audience over forty leet of
deal space, w< wondered if there iiad been
only a seore of people they would have just
made one straight row right against the wall
and as far off as they could get without go
ing out of doors.
Webster, or some other wise and careful
observer, was accustomed to say that hardly
any public speaker can overcome forty feet
of dead space. It is true, no matter who
said it; true, tf it were never said before
this writing. We doubt if, to speak accu
rately, any man, or woman speaker, ever
did, or can, overcome so much dead space.
No doubt a rarely eloquent man may make
his w iris felt through such dead space, but
he does not overcome it. He has only kept
it from overcoming him. The best orator
who ever moved an audience through forty
feet of dead space, would have moved them
more had they been, at least, thirty feel
nearer to him Ten test is as much space
a? should be toLrated between speaker and
hearer.
To speak at a man forty feet away, peering
at the orator as if conscious of being at a
safe distance, is to speak at a disadvantage ;
to hear so tar off, is to hear at a di advan
tage. The words lose motneirum and heat
going so tar. A man who has no tire, no
sympathy, no magnetism, no oratorical en
thusiasmos. may care little about distance.
But the speaker who has such qualities—
though in small degree-feels himself—and
he cannot help it—at a helpless aud hopeless
disadvantage, wheu rising behind the pulpit
(geueraliy so constructed or placed as to be
itself a nuisance) be looks away off and
strains his eyes to find a gleam of intelli
gent sympathy. This dead space extin
guishes eloquence. It paralyzes the able
speaker and the able heaver.
Very clearly, as the case appears to us,
this dead space must be overcome. It can’t
be overcome while it remains. There is
but one way ; it must eeass to be deal space.
It must he utterly done away with.
How is it to be done? Several methods sug
gest themselves to us. As we are liberally
inclined, and never felt disposed to exhaust
ourself on a side issue, or a non essential
point, we may be allowed to suggest more
than one plan for overcoming dead space.
We do not claim originality or profundity in
the methods we propose.
1. In the first place, as to many communi
ties at least, dead space may he overcome by
filling the house. If the front pews are full,
and all are full, it is easy to propagate the
power of thought uni speech to the last
pews.
There is unbroken connection. The bat
tery in New can report itself in San
Francisco —sending the current across a con
tinent; or in London—diving under the
wide ocean —if the connecting wires are in
place. But not otherwise. The operator
may place his instrument on the shore and
click away, looking sea ward with both his
eyes, but if there be forty feet of dead space
between the battery and the cable, there is
no report in London. One method, then,
is, fill up the house with people.
2. Skillful architects might, if they would,
invent tome adjustable arrangement by which
the rear part ot the house might be brought
SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE.
t
nearer the speaker. Can’t the people be
pushed, or pulled, by some automatic slid
ing wall, whether or no, acro.-s the dead
space till they are close enough to the speak
er for him to look them in their eyes'/
3. If this second plan be rejected as vis
ionary, the speaker might be pulied nearer
his audience —putting the dead space behind
him. Or there might be a pulpit on wheels,
so that it could be rolled across the dead
less costly, the sp-aker might, step out of his
box (called a pulpit) and boldly walk right
up to his audience. He could, as a last re
sort. if he be short of stature, stand upon a
bench. Or, he might plant in the central
aisle a little platform, at convenient distance
from the bolder ones who venture nearest.
If it should be too heavy for the speak-r to
manage alone, special officers (Platfonn-
Bearers” they miget be called) who sbou and
do this office for him.
4. if both ends must remain stationary,
and the preacher be short of statur-, and
the congregation object to his standing on a
bench, and the moveable pulpit or platform
be counted objectionable, there is sd 1 an
other plan that we diffidently suggest—the
people, when they enter the house, might
ke< p on toward the pulpit and begin to fill
up from tlia r end. We do not 6ee. that this
plan is at all visionary or impracticable. It
depends entirely upon the people: they can
get nearer the speaker if they will take a
few more steps. Thus the d-ad spree is
largely overcome by the people them?. Ives
—by just putting it behiud them. We fear
tha' tuis last suggestion will not be adopted.
It is so ea-y—so simple—just walking lo the
front.
But, it none of our plan-, will do, we beg
somebody to invent a m-thod that w.li do.
We are not wedded to our own views in this
matter. But we are tired of speaking at
people from afar off; it is so much better to
-peak io people close by. Aud dead space
injures ihe hearing as much as the sneaking.
. Somehow, speakers and hearers roust be
brought nearer to each other. H.
Oxford.
SHORT LESSONS ON COMMON WORDS.
“Act of Faith.''
The word or phrase, which suggests this
article can scarcely be called common.
Bui the lesson is a good one, and much
needed. We copy it without note or com
ment from Guesses At Truth :
‘ It is quite right there should be an Inqui
sition. It is quite right, there should be
autos da fe Tne more the better, if they
are but real ones. There should beau in
quisition aud autos da fe iu every country
yea in every town, yea on every hearth, yea
in every heart. The evil hitherto has been,
that they have been far too few. Every
man ought to perform autos-da-fen, often
accompanied l>v death, not seldom by tor
ture. Only his autos■ da fe should consist,
in the tlaying of hi? own stubborn, unt eiiev
ing will.
These would be truely autos-da-fe. It is
no act of fai'h for uie to oiler up another as
a victim. On the contrary it is an act of un
belief. It shows I have no faith in uiy broth
er’s spiritu ,1 nature. It shows I have no
faith in the power of God to work upon
his heart and change it. It, shows I hate
no faith in the sword of the Spirit, but ho and
the sword of the fi sh to be mightier.
Nor again, can Faith exist in opposition
to Love. Faith is the root of Love, tiieroot
without which Love cannot have any being.
At times the root may be found, where the
plant has not yet grown up to perfection.
But no hatred, or o her evil, malign passion,
can spring from the root of Faith. Wherever
they are found, they grow from unbelief, from
wa it of faith in man, and from want of faith
iu God.
Moreover, such autos-da-fe would be sure
of effecting their purpose, which otheis
never can. They would be acceptable to
God. They would destroy wliar ought to be
destroyed. And were we diligent in perform
ing them, there would be no need of any
others
This Inquisition should be set up in every
soul. In some indeed it may at times he in
abeyance. The happiest spirits are those
by whom the will of God is done wiibout
effort or struggle. To this aneeTc nature
however, humanity can only approximate,
at.d that too not at once, hut by divers steps
etid stages, at every one of which new autos
da fe arc required. - ’ C.
“Where Is The Money?” By Atticus
G. Haygood, D. D ; President of Emory
College. Macon, Ga.: .1. VV. Burke & Cos.
Price 25 cents per copy, post-paid. We
have received from the publishers a ropy
of this neatly executed pamphlet of -13
pages, written by Dr. Haygood, and pub
lished in this form “ for the good of all con
cerned.” The subject-matter of the pam
phlet is constituted mainly of the leiters
signed John Smith, which were originally
contributed to the Texas Christian Advocate,
but were copied into this paper, and several
other religious journals. Those letters,
however, as they appear here, bavp been re
vised and amplified, and the pamphlet con
tains some additional diapers. The dis
cussion is well calculated to arouse thought
upon the vital subject of endowing our Col
leges. We hope the pamphlet will be wide
ly circulated, and speedily crowned with
fruit.
The National Repository.— N'ew York:
Nelson & Puillips, 805 Broadway. $3.00
a year.
This is anew candidate for public favor,
yet not altoge her new, as it takes the place
in literary circles of the "Ladies’ Ileposi
tury,” now discontinued. The January num
ber gives promise of increased vigor and use
ulness, and of a wider and higher range of
thought. The articles are carefully wriiten
and edi'ed, though several of them are per"
haps, too long; but the reader will not tire
in going through them. The first, from the
pen of the editor, is handsomely illustrated,
and is a deeply interesting sketch o f the jour
uey from Suez so Jerusalem. Dr. Wise gives
an account ol Macaulay’s mother and sister-;
Dr. J. F. Hurst, of the Drew Theological
Seminary, summarizes the character of the
celebrated Norman Maeleod in a fascinating
narrative of his life aud labors; and Rev. W.
H. Daniels begins a capital story about
“That Boy: Who shall have him?” Mrs.
Mary L. D ckinson contributes a critique on
“George Sand,” and two or three others
furnish briefer articles, hut all well worthy
of perusal. Tue Editorial Miscellany is rich
in brief notes about Foreign Affairs, Art,
Nature, Religion, Things Curious and Use
ful, and Books; aud the editor's utterances
Ex Cathedra. To the latter department the
reader will uaturally turn to see what the
editor has to say about the questions of the
day in Church, education, religion, and
politics. His editorials deserve, and will
attract, attention—however surely they may
sometimes try the forbearance of Southern
readers.
The London Quarterly Review, repub
lished by the Leonard Scott Company, 41
Barclay St., New York, presents the follow
ing table of contents for Octobtr : Straw
berry Hill; The Arctic Regions and the Es
kimo; London Alms aud London Pauper
ism ; The Papal Monarchy ; The Suez Ca
nal An International Highway ; Pictorial
Illustrations of Shakespeare; The Turkish
Empire ; The Life of the Prince Consort ;
The Eastern Question and the Government.
NORTH GEORGIA CONFERENCE.
Spauta, Ga., December 6th,1876.
The North Georgia Annual Confemice of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, South,
convened i's tenth annual sessionin the
Methodist church, in theory of Spara, at 9
o'clock, a m.. December 6th, 1876, Bishop
Geo ge F. Pierce presiding. Religioig ser
vices conducted by the BV?op.
The Secteiary of the last Confi rencecalled
the roll.
John W. Heidt was elected Secetary,
and Tims. A. S.-als, Jas H. Baxter, Vm. P.
Lovejoy, and David L. Anderson. ass*‘an‘s.
Nine o'clock, a. m., and one o’ckfk, p.
m.. were appointed as the hours of meeting
and adjournment.
The bar of the Conference was fixe! at a
line cros-ing ihe house at the near fating of
the last, window ‘r r >m the pulpit.
R. W. Bigham. P. E. of Augns'a nstrict,
and Geo H Patillo, pastor of tha fatten,
were appointed a committee on Publ| Wor
ship.
The following were apromted a committee
on Books and Periodicals: H. II C.
A. Mil h-dl, F. G Hughes, Y. H. Thomp
son, and J. C. Hendrix
A commi'fee on the Bible Cause Has ap
pointed, ks fellows: J F. Mixon, ,W. D.
Hea 'n. M. P, -11. and J. I. Wright.
P. M. I’vburn was appointed on th com
mit ce of the Third Year in pheeoffW. A.
Rogers.
On motion, a committee on Frato-jial Re
lation? wa ,j ordered and appoint d,,as fol
lows : W. H. Potter. A G. Haveood, H. J.
Adams. N. Ba-s, and Thos. H Dozier.
W. F, Glenn was appointed on of
the Fund of Special Relief in place of G. J.
Pearce, deceased.
T M. Pace and Carey King were appoint
ed on ;h- Sundey-schooi Board ia pkee of
Geo. M. Nolan and W. (’. Dtrry. f
C. P Craw o'd was appointed a member
of the committee on Education in place of
C, I). McCutcheon.
Bshop Bierce briefly addressed th Con-
ference.
The report from the Beard of Visitors to
Wesleyan Female College was real, and
was, on motion, referred to committee on
Education.
A communication from Rev. Dr. Thos. O.
Summers, General Editor, waspe-adto
the Conference.
A communication from the General Con
in nee Missionary Secretaries wa,- read,
and was, oa motion, referred to Bmrd of
.Mission^.
I)r. J. B McFerrin, General Conference
Missionary Secretary, was introduce!, and
briefly addressed the Conf- renee in relation
to the mis ionary and general interests of
the Church.
The following members of the Soul) Geor
gia Co-ference were, introduced : Dr. J. 0.
A. Clark, Dr. J. W. Hin on, J. W. Burke,
S. S. Sweet, J. B. Wardlaw, J. A. Rosser,
and W. M. 1). Bond : also, W. G. Whidby,
President, of State Union Sunday school As
sociation.
Rev. A. G. Haygood read his report as
President of Emory C-,liege, which whs, on
motion, referred to the committee oa Edu
cation.
It was, on motion, ordered that the Con
ference sit with open doors in the examina
tion of the characters of Elders.
The Bishop called the twentieth
“Are ad the preachers blameless in their
life and official administration?” when the
names o( the following eldars were called,
and their char actors passed: T. F. Pierce,
W. 11. Potter, A. W. Williams, W. W. 0?-
lin, A. T. Mann, J. L Lupo, F. G. Hughe?,
W. F Smith, L. P. Neese, J. Boring,J. F.
Mixon, D. L. Anderson, 1). Kelsey, h. W.
Speer, J. E. Evans. W, P. IlarrisorfNWiVC.
Dunlap, T. H. Timmons, J. H Harris, and
his d-ath announced ; W. F. Cook, W. A.
Dodge, W. M. Crumley, and granted a su
perannuated reia'ion ; J. A. Reynolds, W.
I). Heath, W. R. Branham, A. W. Rowland,
A. G. Haygood, A. Gray, M. F. Malsby, and
granted a superannuated relation ; W. A.
Florence, M. Callaway, C. A Evans,C. W.
Key, 11. H. Parks, F. A. Kimbell, R. A.
So de, B. F. Fariss, W. T. Hamilton, F. P.
Brown, F. B. D,vies, G. 11. Fattillo. J. L.
Pierce, 11. J. Adams, W. T. Caldwell.
Announcements were made. Adjourned,
with benediction by Bishop Pitrce.
Second Day, December 7.
Conference met at 9 o’clock, a. m., Bish
op Pierce in the Chair. Religious exercises
were conducted by Rev. John P. Duncan.
Minutes of yesterday’s session were read and
approved.
The calling of the roll was, on motion, or
dered dispensed wi h for to-day and hereaf
ter. The names of a number of members,
absent nti yesterday, were entered as pres
ent. H. P. Bell, alternate for C. M. Mc-
Clure, lay delegate Lorn the Gainesville
District, appeared and took his seat.
The exhibit of the Southern Methodist
Publishing House, by A. 11. Bedford, Agent,
was read, and on motion referred to the
Committee on Books and Periodicals.
Rev. J. R. Mayson read bis report as
President of LaGrange Female College,
which was on motion referred to the Com
mittee on Education.
A communication from R j v. R. Abbey in
reference to the clahn of the Publishing
Hone against the United States, was on
motion ref rred to a special committee, con
sisting of J. E. Evans, J. Boring, and W.
A. Parks.
The second question, “ Who remain on
trial?” was taken up. and George \V. Du
val. H. M. Q-iillian. John W. Quillian, W.
D. Anderson, .1. L Perryman, V. V. Har
lan. John D. Himmond, Warren A. Cand
ler, Osgood A Thrower, and Elias H. Wood,
were approved by C nnmittee, pissed, and
continued. Elam Chiiutian was discontin
ued at his own request.
The fourth question, “ Who are admitted
into full connection?” was called, when the
following named brethren were called before
the Bishop, addressed by him, the disciplin
ary questions propounded, and then their
cases acted uprn, one by one, as follows :
James E. England, approved by committee,
admitted and elected to deacon's orders;
William E. Shackleford, approved by com
mittee and cntii'ited on trial; Jesse J. Har
ris, already an Elder, approved by the com
mittee and admitted; Thomas J. Edwards,
a deacon, approved by the committee and
admitted; W. H. Trammel!, approved by
committee, admi ted and elected to deacon's
orders; J. W. Lee, approve i by committee,
admitted and elected to deacon’s orders : F.
M. T. Brannon, already an elder, approved
by the committee, and admitted ; E. A.
Gray, approved by committee, admitted, and
elected to deacon's orders ; Thomas K Ken
dall approved by the committee, admitted
and elected to deacon’s orders; A. J.
Hughes, already a deacon, approved by the
committee and admitted; Charles L. Pat
tillo, approved by committee, admitted and
elected to deacon’s orders.
The special committee on the communi
cation from Dr. Abbey, made the following
report, which was adopted :
The Committee to whom was referred the
paper from Dr. Abbey, as a petition from
the Conference to Congress, touching the
claim of the M. E. Church, South, for the
use, etc., of the Publishing House, etc.;
report the paper back to the Conference,
with the addition of the words, “ the equity
of,” and recommend the adoption of the
following resolution :
lierolved, That the Bishop and Secretary of
the Conference sign the'petition as amended,
in behalf of the Conference : aud that the
Secretary forward it immediately to Dr. Ab
bey. Respectfully submitted,
J. E. Evans,
J. Boring,
W. A. Parks.
Dr. Mullally, pastor of the Presbyterian
Church, Rev. J. Lyons, Superintendent of
the American Bible Society, and Dr. F. M.
Kennedy, Editor of the Southern Chris
tian Advocate, were introduced tothe Con
ference.
Rev. J. H. Mashburn. Jr., was granted
leave of absence on account of sickness in
his family.
The first question, “ Who are admitted on
trial?” was taken up, when the following
were admitted : Miles H. Dillard. Asbnrv
W. Qnillian, Wm. J. Wool, and Edwin I.
Smith.
Conference adjourned, with benediction
by Bishop Pierce.
Third Dav, Dec. 8.
Conference met pursuant to adjournment.
Religious sendee conducted by 11. H Parks.
Bishop Pierce took the chair.
The Minutes of yesterday read and ap
proved. The second question, “ Who are
admitted on trial?” was reamed. and the
following were admitted: Selwyn 1,. Smith.
EMas B. Rees, Michael D. Turner Merit J.
Gofer, R bert I, Campbell. Wiliam O
Butler, Oliv r C. Simmons, John 11. Elks
and Nicholas Z. Glenn.
Gibson C Andrews was r9-adm ; tted into
full connection !rom the Free Will Baptist
Church, he having been received into tha‘
Church upon his credentials as an elder in
the M. E. Church, South.
The twelfth question, “ What traveling
preachers are elected to elder’s order? ?”
was ti.kmi up, and the following were ap
proved and elected: Eli Smith. S. P. Jones,
M. L. Underwood, W. P. Smith, John T.
Richardson (made supernumerary, and con
tinued in class of second year), C. C. Carey,
J. S. Embry, George W. Hardaway, I. G.
Parks, John H. Mashburn (continued in
class o! third year), R. P. Martyn, John D.
Gray, and Wiley T. Laine.
The seventh question, “Who are the Dea
cons of one year?” was taken up, and an
swered : R. W. Rogers, G. W. Thomas, J.
W. G. Watkins, W. L. Wooten, W. H.
Speer, W. L. Yarbrough, aud W. W. Lamp
kin.
At this point, Bishop Pierce vacated the
chair, for a session of the Legal Conference,
which was called to order by the President,
Rev. W. 11. Potter.
The Legal Conference having completed
its business, Bishop Pierce resumed the
chair.
The Joi-t Board of Finance then read
their Report in open Conference, announc
ing the appropriations to the claimants on
the Conference, which was adopted.
The twentieth question was resumed,when
the following brethren were called, their
characters p issed : J. W. Stipe, J. W. Ba
ker, W. 11. Branham, Jr., D. J. Myrick, T.
A. Sials, W. G. Hanson, W. P. Lovejoy,
H. C. Cnristian, A. C. Thomas, P. G. Rey
nolds, J. J. Singleton, W. A. Rogers.
Madison Bell, and John P. Duncan, were
granted leave of absence.
Announcements were male, and the Con
ference adjourned with the benediction by
Rev. J. B. McFerrin.
Correspondence.
LETTER FROM DR. McFERRIN.
Mr. Editor: A line from the Conferences
may be acceptable to your readers. Hav
ing attended the Western, St. Louis, Mis
souri, Illinois, 'Tennessee, Southwestern Mis
souri, and Indian Mission Conferences, I
had the pleasure ofheing at the recent ses
sions of the Virginia and North Carolina
Conferences, and am now at the North
Georgia Conference. lain happy to say,
that in all the material interests of the
Church there is a degree of prosperity. The
“ times have been hard” everywhere, and in
all the Conferences, but the brethren have
stood up manfully. The support of the
preachers has. in some cases, been meagre,
hut still the brethren move iorward, trust
ing in God, and the laymen are, to the extent
of their ability, in most instances, sustain
ing their brethren in the pastoral work. It
is a singular fact that notwithstanding the
tightness of the times, there are many in the
older Conferences knocking at the door, ask
ing to be admitted into the traveling connec
tion. It may be that God allows “ hard
times” to come, that he may break the hold
of the heart upon worldly things; that those
who are called to the work of the ministry
may have fewer temptations to enter into
secular employments. Let every man look
well to the reasons why he fails to obey the
call of God; and let those who enter the
ministry, seriously consider the motives that
prompt them to assume the high and holy
calling of a preacher of the gospel. Should
any come in lor a vocation, or enter the
work as a profession, be had better remain
a! home and go to the plow, or work in the
shop, or follow such employment as Provi
dence may indicate. One thing disturbs me
no little : too few of the first-class of the
younger men are inclined to go to new fields
in the Far West. I wish a large number of
those w o can be spared would consent to
leave their nat.ve homes and go where they
are most needed. You are aware, that in
“the regions beyond” “the harvest is great
and the laborers are few.” What a pity
that there should he a surplus in one place
and a serious lack in others, and that those
having charge of these interests cannot
make the proper distribution. It is proper
and just, however, to say that many would
ask to be transferred had they the means
of defraying the expense of removing their
families to a great distance. O, that we had
a full treasury, that the poor might be sup
plied with the bread of life 1
Another serious impediment is, that so
many young preachers encumber themselves
with families before they arrive at such an
age, and acquire such experience, as will
justify their appointment to important posi
tions in the Church ; or, if they be sent,
they are put on short allowance, starved out,
and compelled to leave the work or supple
ment their support by resorting to secular
employments.
But, 1 am on a line of thought I had not
in’ended when I began this letter, and yet i
must be excused, asfthe brethren are now dis
cussing some of the points alluded to in the
foregoing remarks. A young man was just
now rejected because he had a fimily, and
could not be supported. I wish here, and
now, to give it as my deliberate opinion, that
the ministry and the Church are suffering
from premature and unsuitable marriages.
I know that this sentence will be read with in
credulity, and perhaps with displeasure by
many, but I feel it binding upon my con
science to hear my testimony’ on this subject.
There may be, and doubtless are exceptions,
but this in no wise invalidates the rale. My
at’eution has been turned to this matter for
many long years, and I speak what, I think,
I know.
But, back to the Conferences. The Vir
ginia and Norih Carolina Conferences which
I have lately attended, are jnoble bodies
of ministers and laymen. In missionary
matters they are leading off well, and we
are expecting several young men of promise
to offer themselves for foreign work.
Bishop Kavauaugh was present and pre
sided at both these Conferences. He gave
great, satisfaction, especially in the pulpit.
He has a warm heart, and preaches like he
did thirty years ago—only better.
The North Georgia Conference is now in
session at Sparta, Bi-hop Pierce presiding.
The Bishop is laboring under a severe cold,
but is conducting the deliberations with his
usual ability. I spent an ght at the Bishop's
home daring the early part of the week.
Elis fa’her is at the Bishop’s house, where
he devotes him?ell to reading aud writing.
He is wonderfully preserved. Ripe for the
kingdom of heaveu, he is just waiting the
call of the Muster to pass over ; but, while he
tarries, he is busily employed, aud intends,
by God's blessing, to
“ Cease at once to work and live.”
The South Carolina Conference met in
Sparta, in a private house, in ISOG. Geor
gia was then included in the South Carolina
Conference. The house in which the Con
ference convened still stands, and is vitwed
with i:it rest by the members of the present
Conference.
North Georgia is a strong, working, and
successful b dy. Of the proceedings, you
will be tfficially informed.
J. B. McFerrin.
<S 'parta, Ga.. December B th, 1876.
LETTER FROM ORANGEBURG, S. C.
Mr. Editor: Every itinerant Methodist
minister, by the tenure of his office, may be
very properly registered among the annuals
without offending good taste by such floral
c'asifieation, when the mind takes in the
beautiful figure used by the inspired prophet.
•‘Tines of Righteousuess—the Planting of
the Lord.” Not that the itinerant, like the
annual, yields to the first frosts of autumn,
-ml lades and dies out of place and charac
ter, but that by the very genius of our change
ful system, he needs, and must have, official
“ rooting and grounding” to authorize fur
ther growth and development, as each new
year opens before him. We are under an
appointment, as ministers, which by the very
laws of its being is self limiting, the end of
each ecclesiastical year bringing virtual dis
solution of the pastorale in every case. The
edendarfor 1870 embraces within its lines of
registration the beginning and the end of
every regular itinerant, pastorate. We are
all wiihout pastoral work when the year ends.
The year now whirling by us under the mo
mentum of eleven months ot unbroken head
way, will soon complete its circle, and then
conies another South Carolina Annual Con
ference, crowded with its incidents and its
inspiration?, its lessons and its mandates ;
and Ironi iis issues will open the various
fields of labor and toil to which each mem
ber will be expected to go uncomplainingly.
Before the year entirely passes away, you
will plea?e suffer a few desultory jottings,
touching briefly upon the coudition of the
church now under my pastoral care. As
“ news from the churches ’ generally de
mands a premium, when compare and with the
same amount of manuscript touching upon
other subjects, I will risk the chances of this
article going into the waste basket, subject
ing it first, however, to Ihe touch-stone of
your own practiced eye.
This is my third year of pastoral life at
Orangeburg, and I do not hazard a remark
that our brethren who were with us at last
session will not readily endorse, when I claim
for this part of our beloved Zion everything
which seems necessary to fill up closely an
interesting chapter in the biography of min
isterial life. The leavening element, inhe
rent in the faultless doctrines of our Church,
and the obviously efficient. sy?tem of making
appointments, coupled with the inspiration
attending a divinely accredited ministry, by
which the steady growth of Methodism has
proven a wonder to the world, has demon
strated its saving power here also. Since
this station became a separate appointment,
six years ago, there has been by the opera
tion of the various and customary agencies
of the Church, a numerical growth of nearly
one hundred percent. Without presuming
to parade what has been done “under my
pastorate,” it will suffice to remark that the
s atistics now ready for Conference will show
a membership of about one hundred aud
seventy. Each year, under the Divine bless
ing, lias been marked by an appreciable
growth in all of the necessary elements of a
real evangelical Church, so that the outlook
for Orangeburg Methodism is of the most,
hopeful and satisfactory nature. The Sun
dav-scbool is large, and the management
good, and from this source alone the Church
will eoutiuue to take on character, and add
to the number of her membership; while, in
addition to this, Methodism as illustrated
here, has an inalienable hold upon public
confidence, and exerts a moral power that
points sterd.ly to its success in the future. I
know ol no pariah in the interior of the State
where the material for growth and develop
ment offers stronger inducements to conse
crated effort on the part of our ministry. It
i? true that the yearly “ingatherings” on a
station do not compare with the reports from
circuits in point of numbers, but at this place
there has been a permanent growth in the
health and robustness of the Church in all
its departments.
But, 1 must close, and before I do this,
will remark, that this is not a “ farewell
letter” to my charge, for I could unite with
every member of Conference, new happily
situated, in the wish that this was but the in
troductory note to an opening and prolonged
pastorate, but I must carry out the spirit of
my first sentence at the head of this article,
anl that is, that at the close of these annual
terms , I will be subjected. 3 others, to the
chances, or. if you please, the providences,
that enter into the revolutions and general
movements of the great Pint-rant wheel. I
trust that the superior wisdom combin- and in
the work of engineering the complicated and
yet delicate machinery of the Conference
work may be graciously supplemented by the
wisdom of the Master, and that we may all
get the best appointment where an ej e to the
glory of God is recognized as of first impor
tance. Yours, J. B. Campbell.
INDIAN RIVER MISSION, FLORIDA
CONFERENCE.
Mr. Editor: Perhaps a brief account of
our labors on this Mission will not he unac
ceptable to your readers. By “our labors”
I mean the united efforts of all our Christian
people, of whatever name or denomination.
Considering that this is anew country, where
a few years since, the red man held supreme
rule; and where, at present, infidelity, rang
ing from the highest to the lowest order of
skepticism, largely controls and directs the
religious sentiment of the public mind —we
have great reason to bless God that we, his
servants, have been instrumental in doing
any good. Soon after coming here last year
1 found that, inasmuch as there were few
Methodists, in order to do the most good, it
would be necessary to enlist the mutual aid
and support of all other Christians, and in
this way ignoring all denominational differ
ences.
In my visitations I was as often with them
as with our own people. Very soon I dis
covered that the plan was working admirably
well, for in all the congregations to whom I
preached there was a good attendance of the
membership of sister Churches.
Last year we did little more than organize
the Mission. This year, beginning with the
four appointments I had formed, and mate
rially aided by a couple of Union Sunday
schools, and an equal number of prayer
meetings, we entered ou our work quite
auspiciously.
During the second quarter we organized
another society—being the second one on the
mission—and established a Methodist Sun
d .y-school, at the same place. There have
been, during this’year, nine additions by
certificate and on profession of faith. A
number of infants have been baptized. Our
church papers a'as! have no circulation here.
I have failed in every attempt to get sub
scribers. They tell me they have no money.
This, in respect to the present time, is cer
tainly true. AU of our collections are ex
ceedingly deficient. I have done all I could.
There have been no special revivals, but a
gradual improvement of the spiritual inter
ests of the work has been going on. Owing
to the inconvenience of getting here, our
much loved Presiding Elder has visited us
only twice this year. I think the future of
our Church on Indian River Mission is bright.
Yours in Christ, A. A. Barnett.
DECATUR CIRCUIT. NOTTII GEORGIA
CONFERENCE.
Mr. Editor : The remark is often made
by brethren on love feast occasions, “ I can
not allow the season to pass and uo‘ give in
my testimony in behalf of the Master.” This
or its equivalent. Or. if the duty is neglect
ed. we have often heard another class ex
press deep regret at duty neglected and bless,
ing missed. Well, your correspondent feels
somewhat after that fashion as he reads the
Advocate’s abounding reports from breth
ren in all the patronizing Conferences, and
remembers that another year with its oppor
tunities will soon be gone, and that he has
not done what he could by contributing to
the general fund of information and pleas
ure, and of which the humblest member ol
the connection is capable, if he would exer 1
himself.
Some degree of prosperity has been en
joyed on the Decatur circuit. Meetings,
mure or less interesting and profitable, have
been held at all the preaching places. Many
oftlie brethren and sisters have had a spirit
ual benefit and girded up their loins anew
for whatever of conflict awaits them. The
w iter feels thankful that he lias been ena
bled to rejoice greatly, and would feel it an
immeasurable affliction if lie had to go one
hour wiihout the witnessing Spirit, much
more to wade through a meeting with dry
eye?, an uucomforted heart, and now and
then, a sort of spiritual abandon. Apro
pos just here: Some years ago an aged
Baptist, minister attended at one of the hours
a gracious meeting of urine in Richmond
county, at Clarke’s chapel; and, although he
did the preaching and your humble servant
the exhorting, the Spirit was there in convert
ing power ; also, as the Head of the Church
has promised, he poured out such a bless
ing there was not room to contain it; hence
the earthen vessels broke, and shouting
was in order, and respectable. (I think the
old brother’s eyes sparkled, and that he
enjoyed the meeting fully as well as a little
Jew who, in former years, was much with
my own children, did swine’s flesh.) I met
this same brother some weeks afterward,
and he tackled me after this fashion : “Have
you caught that, fox yet ?” No doubt his
hard-shell expanded to its utmost thereat,
and very like felt a warmth and pleasure
that his soul was an utter stranger to ; for I
then and there sat him down iu the porch of
the nineteenth chapter of Acts, which has
inscribed upon it, “ Have ye received the
Holy Ghost since ye believed ?” I wished
then to do with him as Paul did for the
Ephesians, introduce him to Christ and His
Church, but did not have time to wait until
he could dry off.
The Presiding Elder’s office is exercising
brethren in some quarters, as it has done in
times past. Is it a question, so far as the
importance and continuance af the office is
concerned? (May I consider this question
in your columns? Yes? Thank you, not
unless tlie prospective was more inviting.)
Nevertheless, though utiterrified (as Paul
would have wives with their husbands) by
this; and yet, in no sense on a “returning
board” with him, I olaiin the right to give
my opinion of Dr. Evans. In the firrt place
he is a great big man; and, as a little boy
once remarked ol my beard in the presence
of a red headed mother, aint it red ' so of my
Elder, can't he sing 1 And, as truly, can't
he preach ! 1 have carefully weighed him,
this year, and pronounce him the most effec
tire preacher of my acquaintance. He has
just that blending of “ old fogy” and progress
that reaches well nigh all classes ; aud he has
but to get under weigh in the pulpit to con
vince you that he has that well of water
springing up. And I think it due him to
say, although he may put me down for the
Okefennke Swamp mission, or commit some
other grave blunder in ray appointment (not
being able to see me as well as I see him),
since “ rubbing up” against him for ths first
time, that he is one of the most lovable men
I ever knew. And I want all the brethren
of his cla?8, who are passing out from us —a
Branham, a Crumley, Payne, Boring, and
others —to know that they are embalmed in
the affections of their brethren. Aud I hope
this will be read and allowed to pass without
finding a single brother of so small dimen
sions as will allow him to attribute unworthy
motives to this very honest estimate of a
man “ every inch,” and who has a right to
scent the alabaster box that will be broken
at his burial.
As you generally put “book notices” at
the end of your editorials, allow me to call at
tention to at least one among the many pe
riodicals patronized by our people— Arthur's
Magazine. Wh itever its excellences —and it
has them—there is this very grave blemish,
to which I would call the attention of our
young Christians : It is as decidedly the ad
vocate of dancing, and is as bitter toward its
o posers, as to intemperance and its aiders
and abettors. This fact, should be consider'
el in dstermining “what magazine to take
next year.” But my “book-table” must
be short.
I had a chapter ou pastoral visiting,
which I may send at some other time, the
pith of which is, that I am governed in that
matter by my own strength and conscience.
No one's legs shall be put on my body, or
body on my legs; and no “ quarterage” lash
shall force me where the simple voice o
duty fails to carry me. Of course; the sick
must never be neglected, but I will never in
a perfunctory way, ai.d wiih its spirit, visit
the people, lor preachers can just as effec
lualiy disgust as the fashionable Mrs. Trol
jope with her card case.
Jno. A. Reynolds.
COMMON SCHOOLS—And “JUSTITIA.”
Mr. Editor: I have resd “Justitia’s” re
ply to my last article. In it. I find nothing
that has not already been fully discussed by
us. The discussion must come to an end,
because my friend refuses to argue the only
questions at issue in the controversy.
I have no desire to recapitulate the argu
ments. “ Justit.ia” and the writer earnestly
long for a common end —the education of
the people. We only differ as to the means
to be employed. I freely accord to “ Justi
t;a” honesty of conviction ; I claim as much
for myself.
In my late article I invoked the law and
the facts. I “stuck to the text.” 1 find in
“ Justitia’s ” lengthy reply nothing that has
not received due attention. For that reason
only, I will not tax you again with another
article on the subject. Justice.
Burke County , Dec. I, 1876.
VOLUME XXXIX., N
ftcliis of % ©Mi.
GENERAL NEWS.
Memphis, December 1. —The coldest day
of the season. Maximum thermometer 30.
Weather clear.
New Orleans, December I.—The coldest
day of the season. The mercury ranged
from 32 to 42.
A fire broke out early this morning at the
corner of St. Bernard and Claiborne street.
It reached and crossed Esplanade street, and
was still burning at noon. Three blocks
thus far are destroyed. A negro who was
detected setting lire to one of the buildings
during the progress of the conflagration was
shot and instantly killed. Another negro,
also found in the act of committing the same
crime was shot at but missed and succeeded
iii makeing his escape. The fire destroyed
one hundred and twelve houses. The loss is
estimated at $300,000 to $400,000; insur.
ance $200,000. About fifty houses were oc
cupied by a hundred families, who lost nearly
all their effect? and are left destitute, many
of them losing their wearing apparel.
Columbia, December 2.—The Democratic
and Republican Legislatures have occupied
the House of Representatives since Noverr.
ber 30th. both working to secure an advan
tage of the other. The Rephblicaiis are all
colored except four, and neat ly all strangers.
Columbia, December 2, 4:30 p. m.—Two
of the most prominent colored Republican
members (Myers and Hamilton) of Beau
fort, have just deserted Mackey’s side of the
House and were sworn in by the Democrats.
Columbia, December 2. A motion was
made to day in ‘he Supreme Court in be
half of Wallace, Speaker of the Democratic
House, for a mandamus on Mackey, Speaker
of the Republican House, to compel him to
deliver the returns for Governor in Mackey’s
possession to Wallace, as the legal Speaker
of the legal House ; also a motion for quo
warranto on Hayes’ electors ; both caseß to
be heard Monday. The Republicans to
night seated four more members from Abbe
ville county, without hearing protests or con
tests, and while the Democrats were in the
Hall holding certificates of election from the
Board of State Canvassers.
Washington, December 4.—The Senate
met at noon. Committees were appointed
to notify the President and House of Rep
resentatives that the Senate was ready for
business, and at 12 20 a recess for three
fourths of an hour was taken.
The Republican caucus of the House nom
inated Garfield for Speaker.
A caucus of the Senate discussed the situ
ation but deferred action until the electoral
vote of South Carolina, Florida and Louis
iana was decided.
The House was called to order by Chief
Clerk Adams. A motion was made to elect a
Speaker. Mr. Banks appealed from the deci
sion of the clerk that the speaker should be
efocte before the new members were sworn.
The vote was progressing ou the motion to
table the appeal.
The South Carolina Gommittee meet to
morrow and leave for Columbia to-morrow
night. The resolution provides that the
committees proceed to the respective States
to investiga'e the recent elections in these
States, and the action of the returning
boards in reference thereto, and to report
all the facts essential to an honest return of
the votes of electors for President and Vice-
President, and to a fair understanding there
of by the people, and whether the electoral
votes of these State? should be counted.
Columbia, December 4.—The Supreme
Court heard argument the entire day on the
application for a mandamus, requiring the
Secretary of State to deliver the returns for
Governor and Lieutenant-Governor, to
Spe.aker Wallace, and adjourned at 7:30
p. m. until to-morrow, at 11 a. m.
Soon after the Dual House being called to
order, Speaker Wallace announced that as
there were 100 special constables in the House
to eject the Democratic members, and as he
feared such a movement would be resisted
and bloodshed would ensue, he adjourned
the legally elected House to meet at Carolina
Hall. The Democrats then in a body with
drew to Carolina HaU* where they are now
in secret session.
The Republicans then went into secret
session in the State House.
The town is lull of people, and great ex
citement prevails.
Macon, December 4. —Anew route to
Florida, via Brunswick and Fernandina, has
been opened. The first through car from
Richmond to Brunswick passed through
Macon last night.
New York, December 4.—A telegram
from Cameron, Fairfax county, Va., an
nounces the death, in that place of Samuel
Cooper, late Adjutant and Inspector Gener
al of the Confederate army, in the seventy
eig‘h year of his age.
Washington, December 4. —After the us
ual formalities, Mr. Edmunds offered a res
olution, which was laid on tlie table and or
dered printed, setting forth that, whereas
tie constitution provides lor the method of
electing Representatives to Congress, and
recites who are entitled to vote for such
Representatives, and whereas, it is alleged
that in the States of South Carolina, Geor
gia, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi,
the rights of many such persons were denied
and abridged during the late election,
Resolved, That the committee on Prive
leges and Elections be authorized to inquire
whether such rights were denied and abridg
ed, and if so, to wl.at extent, and who have
been affected by such denial and abridgment,
and by what authority such abridgment has
been carried on.
Also that said commit'ee inquire into the
fact, whether any Pr. sidei.tial Electors, in
the late elections were disqualified, and
whether any of them have been interfered
with in their rights and qualifications, and
whether there is any constitutional remedy
therefor; that said Committee employ Clerks
and Stenographers, and he empowered to
take testimony, and administer oaths. Ad
journed.
Columbia, December 5. —The Democratic
House gained two more from the Republi
can House to-day, with certificates from the
Board of Canvassers, making sixty-two, aod
lacking only one of a constitutional quorum.
Both Houses are in session, aud also the
Senate. The troops are being removed,
and special constables now supply their
place.
Washington, December 5.—A special to
the New York Times, dated New Orleans,
yesterday, says, late to-night a number of
the T’ilden electors arrived in New Orleans.
They will all he here to morrow, and re.
ceive certificates of election from McEnery,
who still claims to li&ye been legally elect
ed to the office which Gov. Kellogg now
holds. With these documents they will pro
ceed to Washington, and claiming that they
are the only legally elected electors from
Louisiana will demand that their votes shall
be counted.
Atlanta, December s—The Atlanta and
Richmond Air-Line Railroad was sold to
day at public sale, and was purchased by the
bondho ders of the road for one million six
hundred thousand dollars.
San Francisco, December 5. —A Salem,
Oregon, dispatch says the canvass of votes
shows the Republican majority to be 1,165.
A protest has been filed, signed by Senator
Kelly and eight others, against the issuance
of a certificate to Postmaster Watts, and in
favor of its issuance to the next highest.
The Governor gives notice that lie will hear
arguments on Tuesday. The Republicans
will not argue the matter before the Got-.