The press. (Philadelphia [Pa.]) 1857-1880, January 08, 1862, Image 2

ttt Vress.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 1862
EXTRACT FROM THE•LAST SPEECH OF
STEPHEN A. DOUGLAS.—" The conspiracy
to break up the Union Is a fact now known to
all. Armies are being raised, and war levied
to accomplish it. There can be bat two sides
to the controversy. Every man mast be on the
side'of the United States or against it. There
can be no neutrals in this war. There can be
none - bat patriots and traitors.”
YOB SALEItte Idouble-cylinder T ITL011" PR1169
on which thin paper has bean printed for the loot nine
months. It le in excellent condition, having been made
to c.der a year ago, and will bo sold it a bargain. For
terms apply at tide office, or address JOAN W. VOINEY.
417 Coostnut !street, Philadelphia.
THE LATEST WAR NEWS
The most important recent event was the ad
vance made by a portion of General Sherman's
division, under command \of Brigadier General
Stevens, and several Union gunboats, against a
rebel battery, on Now Year's Day. The expedi
tion was fully successful. This triumph is an indi
cation that the rebels are about to suffer new and
still more serious injuries from our South Caro
lina expedition. Charleston and Savannah are
both constantly menaced, and the distance be
tween the former city and our outposts is being
rapidly diminished. The fond hope of the
.Secessionists of the Palmetto State, that
they could remain safely at home during the
progress of the rebellion, watching at a prudent
distance the conflict in the Border States * with
their own shores uninvaded, has proved utterly
fallacious, Their best harbor and the favorite re
sort of their proudest aristocrats has fallen into our
bands. Their railroad communications have been
cut off. Their industrial system has been demo
ralised, anti, in some districts, utterly destroyed.
Thousands of their contrabands have abandoned
them fersver. In insane fury.they have demolish
ed millions'of dollars worth of their property, and
the band of incendiarism, prompted , by motives
different from their own, boo desoldtei some of
their most important thoroughfares. -
The harbor of Charleston has been hermetically
sealed, and her citizens aro kept in a state of fear
ful suspense, hourly fearing that a vigilant army,
near at hand, or secret foes in their very midst:
may overwhelm them in irretrievable ruin. The
little "game cook" State is reaping the fruits of
her folly and wickedness in fomenting the re
bellion almost as rapidly as her moat inveterate
enemies could desire; and, much as she suffers,
each new day, instead of bringing her relief, only
adds to her miseries, perplexities, and dangers.
Generallialleek, in a recent general order in re
gard to the manner of conducting the campaign in
his division, la,ls down the doctrine that while per •
sons, direttly or indirectly, engaged in the service
of the enemy are to be disposed of temporarily ac
cording to the usages of war, by the military autho
titles, they-cannot be thus exempted from civil
punishment. lie says :
et " Treason, as a distinct offence, is de
fined by the Constitution, and must be tried by
courts duly constituted by law, but certain acts of
a treasonable character, such as conveying infor
mation to the enemy, acting as spies, &c., aro
military offences, triable by military tribunals, and
punishable by military authority.
"The fact that those persons who are now car
rying on hostilities against the lawful authority of
the United States - aro rebels and traitors to the
Government does not deprive them of any of the
eights of war so fur as the military au'lloritios are
concerned. In our intercourse with the duly-au
thorized forces of the so-called 'Confederate
States,' and in the treatment of prisoners of war
taken from such force, we must be governed by
the usages and customs of war in like eases. But
the rights no given to such prisoners by the laws of
liar do not, aceoraing to the same code, exempt
them from trial and punishment by the proper
courts for treason or other • offewees against the
Government. The rights which they may very
properly claim as belligerents under the general
rules of belligerent intercourse, commerma
cannot exempt them from the punishitent to which
they may have subjected themselves as citizens un
der the general laws of the land."
The well-informed Kentucky correspondent of
the Cincinnati Gazette, writing from Louisville
under date of January 2, thus corrects a number
of false reports concerning the campaign in that
State :
"The rumors about the movements of the army
at Green river are innumerable, sonsattesal and
ridiculous. Let me correct the errors and state the
facts briefly :
"General Buell has not crossed Green - river
with an army of Sixty thousand men.' in faet,he
hasn't creased Green river with any perceptible
advance, whether of sixty thousand or sixty men.
- 0114 . T1 ain3 Is ITIPOVNI C O e sEiT,WINite
gagieg our forces at Itlunfordsville, with a view of
destroying the railroad bridge. In fact a revels-
DOISSIMOO of eight miles across the river, the other
day, didn't show any traces of Buckner. General
Buell is 410 t in hourly expectation of u battle at
Green ricer, or if he is, he was taking the expeej
tation' very coolly last night, cosily established in
his room at the hotel, wrapped in his dressing gown
and analog his cigar, as if his day's work were
(Line ' and there was nothing in the world to dis
turb him, till ho should repair to his headquarters
to.morrov
" And, finally, our troops at Green river, regular
and volunteer, are not marching forward toward
Bowling Green to meet the enemy;' or, if they aro,
they ore in the somewhat awkward predicament of
not knowing the fact themselves.
- "Seriously, there are but two ways in which a
fight on the Nashville line can become possible.
We most move up and attack the enemy, or the
enemy must move down and attack us.
"A s to the advance, I will simply say that I have
ample reasons for stating that it is an absolute cer
tainty that no general advance or aggressive move
ment on our part, toward Bowling Green, is intended
for at least two weeks to come.'
The Virginia correspondent of the Now Orleans
Delta gives, an account of a select dinner party to
General Beauregard, at which he math the follow
ing remarks
On the 21st of July, at about 31 o'clock, perhaps
4, it seemed to mo that the victory was alrgady
within our grasp. In fact, up to that moment, I
had neveewavered in the conviction that triumph
must crown our arms. Nor was my confidence
shaken until, at the time I have mentioned, I ob
served on the extreme left, at the distance of some
thing more then a mile, a column of men approach
ing. At their head was a flag which I could not
distinguish. Even with the aid of a strong glass, I
was unable to determine whether it was the United
States flag or the Confederate flag At the same
moment I received a despatch, from Captain
Alexander, in charge of the signal station; warning
me to look out for the left, that a large column was
approaching from that direction, and that it was
atippossid to be General Patterson's command coming
to reinforce McDowell.
At this moment, I must confess, my heart failed
use. I came, reluctantly, to the conclusion that,
after all our efforts. we should at last be compelled
to yield to the enemy the nard•fought and bloody
field. I again took the glass to examine the flag of
the approaching column, but my anxious inquiry
was - unproductive of result—l could not tell to
which army the waving banner belonged. At this
time all the members of my staff were absent, hav
ing been despatched with orders to various points.
The only person with me was the gallant officer who
has recently distinguished himself by a brilliant feat
of arms—General (then Colonel) Evans. To hipi
communicated my doubts and fears. I told him I
feared the approaching force was in reality Patter
son's division ; that if such was the case I Amid be
compelled ,t,p fall bask upon our own reserves,
and postpone till the next day a continuation of the
engagement. After further reflection,l directed
Colonel Evans to proceed to General Johnston, who
had usurped the task of collecting a reserve,
and to inform him of the circumstances of the case.
and to request him to have the reservea collected
with all despatch, and hold them in readiness to
support our retrograde movement.
Col. Evans started on the mission thus entrusted
to him. lie had proceeded but a short distance
when it occurred to me to make another examina
tion of the still approaching flag. It had now come
within full view. A sudden gust of wind shook
out its folds. and I recognized the stars and bars of
the Confederate banner. It was the flag borne by
your regiment [here the General turned to Colonel
Hay, who eat beside him], the gallant Seventh
Louisiana, and the column of which your regiment
constituted the advance was the brigade of General
(then Colonel) Early. As soon as you were recog
nized by our soldiers your coming was greeted with
enthusiastic cheers, regiment after regiment re
sponding to the cry; the enemy heard the triumph
ant burns; their attack slackened ; these were in
turn assailed by our forces, and within half an
hour from that moment commenced the retreat,
which afterward became a confused and total rout.
I am gled to see that war stained banner gleaming
over us at this festive board, but I hope never again
to see it upon the field of battle.
It is reported that General Jackson, of the rebel
army, commenced shelling Hancock, Maryland, on
the oth instant, but the result wee unimportant;
and on the night of the fith instant he retired,
leaving only a battery and infantry guard in
eight, His force consisted of ton regiments, end it
is considered probable that he intends to attack
General Kelly's command.
The .Ricknend Dispatch of Timsday contains
the fel:eyeing items :
CHARLESToN, Jan. s.—Reliable intelligence has
been received that the Yankee troops have boon
driven from their position on the main land, and
have sought protection on Port Royal Island and
under the guns of their war ships.
[general Lee, in a despatch to official quarters
here, confirms, substantially, the above report.]
George Twells, political prisoner, who hat been
in eonfinement for some time peat in the oounty
jail, is to have a hearing before Judge Meredith on
the Bth inst., on a habeas carpus asked for by the
prisoner, and granted by the judge.
It was said last night that a despatch bad boon
received hero stating that Gen. Jackson, with ton
thousand men, bad marched into and taken posses
sion of Romney, in Hampshire county, the Yankees
snaking little or no resistance.
A report prevniled in the city last night, that the
enemy, said to be five thousand, had taken p'osses
elan of Htntersville, in Pocahontas county. We
did not learn the particulars.
Boni blanches of our State Legislature met
and organized yesterday; the House by the
election of Jona ROWE, a Union Democrat, as
Speaker, and the Senate by the election of
Ron. Louis W. HALL, as Speaker.
THE PROCEEDINGS of the Board of School
Controllers are not, at best, very entertaining,
and in these days of war and diplomacy wo
must be excused for neglecting altogether tho
doings of the eccentric gentlemen managing
our local educational system. It was not with
out a great deal of regret, however, that we
read the elaborate report given in last Friday
- morning's paper, and felicitously designated
by our reporters, "extraordinary proceed
ings." The confusion and mystery are per
plexing, and we rise from a perusal of the'
whole record with a most indefinite idea of
what it is all about. We' bare a column from
Professors VOCIDES and GERARD on the
one side, and a column from Professor
Menthe on the other. The two first gen
tlemen prepare an - * elaborate indictment
against a number of boys, whose, wickedness,
according to their account, speaks sadly for
our civilization, and charge upon Professor
MAGentE every possible degree of inefficiency
and partiality. Professor MAGUIRE, in a little
better taste, makes a record against his assist
ants, and gives us a disquisition upon gc evolv
ing the thinking faculty " and other interest
ing subjects. Mr. FrrzozaAr.n is troubled to
preserve the good temper of the Board; Mr.
LEECH is as anxious as ever about points of
order; Mr. Rime is facetious ; while Mr.
FiETCHER has a presentiment that the Board
is about to be dissolved. Altogether, it is a
delightful little quarrel ; and all we know is,
that Professors McMunrain and GERARD IMO
been dismissed, and that the High School is
in a most deplorable condition.
This, to us, is , the main trouble about all
these disputes. These gentlemen may write
as much as they please—the Controllers may
entertain themselves with acrimonious discus
sions—but they must not ruin the High School.
Without referring . more particularly to the
facts, few will deny that the High School is
not the efficient educational institution it has
hitherto been. The graduating standard is
not as high as it might be ; the discipline is
bri and uncertain—there is no tone about it.
The very fact of these proceedings being made
public is a humiliating circumstance. How
can these gentlemen expect to maintain the
necessary degree of discipline among the boys
under their care with evidences of dissatisfac
tion and demoralization in their own counsels
paraded in the public newspapers? How can
a scholar be expected to pay due respect to
those who show themselves unworthy of re
spect ? and how can the people bare confi
dence in a school whose professors neglect
the duties of a l class-room for newspaper quar
rels
It is to us a matter of little moment whether
Professor Voones teaches mathematics, or
Professor MAGUIRE maintains discipline—if we
can only be assured that mathematics are
taught, and that discipline is really maintained.
We have no desire to interfere with the
School Controllers or their committees—let
them manage the internal afihirs of our schools
in the manner most pleasing to them—but we
do not wish to see the schools perish while
they clamor and protest and exchange angry
epithets. We aro tired of these quarrels—
heartily tired of the whole system. A sweep
ing reform is necessary ; for as it is now, we
have very little confidence in the Controllers,
the committees, and many of those teaching.
It these reforms are only speedily accomplish
ed, we shall hail it as a gratifying circum
stance, and attribute the good fortune to these
disgraceful and humiliating disclosures.
THE LATEST European intelligence, to the
2ith ult., contains notang of importance, ex
cept that cotton continued to advance in price.
The tone of the English journals is milder than
it.has been for some weeks, but there is no re.
taxation in the preparations for war. The
British Parliament would probably not com
mence its session before the first week in Fe
bruary. ¶he• Ministry, now that their war
fever has been checked, appear literally with
, out any popular measure to submit to the
Commons. So much the better for the real
Liberals—(c few, and faint, but fearless still"
—who intend urging the necessity of a now
and ample measure of Parliamentary Reform.
The Palmerston Ministry are not very popular,
and the action of Mr. SEWARD, in the affair of
the Trent, has deprived them of a grievance
out of which, it is evident, they calculated to
make a great pelitical capital. PALMERSTON'S
face, when reading Lord LYoNs' despatch,
must have been a ludicrous study, in its sm.-
. AariatutniLtlisamointniont_for.C.auussuAnK_ or _
GAvenas.
Treasury Notes
Considerable excitement was caused in
financial circles, in our city, yesterday, by
the announcement that our banks had refused
to receive on deposit all United States Trea
sury demand notes which were not payable in
this city. A special despatch from 'Washing
ton states that the chairman of the Committee
of Ways and Means will report a bill to-day
authorizing an issue of $100,000,000 of these
notes, but providing for their prompt redemp
tion by direct taxation.
Public Amusements.
Tragedy upon the stage seems to be going out of
date einoo it is enacted upon a grinder scale farther
South. It being but a •step from the sublime to
the ridiculous, the Walnut-street management has
taken that step and proved itself wise. Last week,
the " Dead Heart" made an indifferent attraction;
now the bouses'are crowded, and Mamas is patron
ized in the persons of two admirable people—Mr.
and Mrs. Barney Williams. The pieces played by
these delineators of Irish character are light, laugh
able, and lucrative. They aro full of humor and
keen wit—not lees acceptable to the galleries be
cause a little coarse—while the incidents aro stir
ring or domestic by turns, and the characters
familiar and congenial.
Mrs. Barney Williams is more versatile than her
husband. He bas few rivals in fiie portraiture of
the incorrigible Celt—a strange inconsistency of
wit and stupidity, wisdom and ignorance—but she'
is excellent at all broad imitations, caricatures, or
burleequce. She dances and sings equally well', has
a passionate figure, a mobilo and flexible face, and is
brimful-of liveliness and mischief. She has not the
grace and dignity of a tragedienne, but, having no
claim, perhaps no desire, far success in a legitimate
field, is content to amuse the million, 60 long as the
ruifficn will afford to pay.
The Arsenal employees give a ball to-night, as
per advertisement.
George Hood's benefit comes off at the Academy
to-morrow. Tonight Mr Forrest plays Macbeth.
New Publications
From W. P. Hazard we have a neat edition of
"TOM Tiddler's Ground, by Charles Diokens, and
others," published by Carlton, of Now York. 4, In
cidents in the Life of a Slave Girl," published for
her benefit, and edited by Mrs. Child, Is painfully
interesting, and we have received satisfactory as
surance that it really is written by herself, and that
all the incidents are true. For seven years, after
escaping from bard slavery, she was concealed in
the loft of bor: grandmother's dwelling, in a South
ern city, finally escaped to Philadelphia, and settled
down at New York, as household servant in a gen
tleman's family, where she has continued eighteen
years. The noble-minded wife of this gentleman
eventually bought her freedom. As those who do
high deeds cannot bo too widely known, or too
highly honored, we take leave to say that this
generous and humane lady is Mrs. N. P. Willis;
Dilewild, State of Now York. Wo trust that this
book will have a large sale.
Letter from Harrisburg.
[Correspoudence'of Tho Prows.)
Hanutnuunn, Jtnuury 7, 1862
This being the day set apart for the meeting of the
Pent. sy In ania Legislature, that body assembled at the
hour appointed. The House met at twelve 111., and,
after the preliminary dreading the certified returns, the
House proceeded to choose for Speaker, John Rowe, of
Franklin, a Union Democrat, who lied served in 1952
and 1853 tie n member, the Straight Democrats" voting
for Wm. Hopkins, of Washington.
Tho straights" were confident of organizing the
House to suit thcmselyee up to last evening, consequeutlY
a host of familiar faces of politicians of that stamp wore
visible. Berks, Montgomery, Schuylkill, Blair, Cum
berland, and nearly every other county, had delegations
of aspirants larger than their representatives on the
floor, but their hopes fell botany zero when tho Union and
Mira Republicans agreed to take the proposition of the
Union Democrats and accept Mr. Rowe for Speaker. Itt
a lit of spleen, the Democracy met in caucus, nominated
Wm. Hopkins, and resolved that they would innate
with no party that did not agree to meet them
in caucus Five hours before, they bad met informally,
and appointed a committee to see what tortes could be
secured front the Union Democrats. These latter gentle
men, it is rumored, offered the "straights" the chief and
assistant clerkship and door-keeper—such a beggarly
pittance to satisfy the hungry horde who were here to be
eallsiled, that they concluded it was better to take no
bread than such a miserable half I,af.
But even after all this, some of the more sanguine
hoped that such mon as John Scott, of Huntingdon; P.
Frazer Smith, of Chester ; Judge Shanties and Dr. Gross,
of Allegheny; and Judge Ross, of Luzerne, who were
not elected an partisans, would belle the expectations of
their constituently, end veto fur the nominee of the De
mocratic caucus. In this they were doomed to bitter
disappointment. Mr. 'Hopkins got none but the straight
Democrats, (46 in number ' ) and Mr. nOWO got all the
rest. On taking the chair, he delivered a brief, sensible,
and patriotic address, and was then sworn in by Thomas
J. Digham, of Allegheny, a gentleman who has been six
times elected a member of the Douse.
Before proceeding to an election of Speaker, Hr.
Ranch, the Clerk, bad a delicate question to decide. It
appears two sets of delegates were interned from Lu
zone, but the Secretary of the Commonwealth lied °WY
returned one list—the delegation beaded by Judge Wm,
1. Roes—and he very propetly put their mines on the
roll. M.
THE mrss.—PRILADELPITTA, WIDIVESDAY, JANITA.IIY . 8, 1.8i32.
LATEST NEWS
BY TELEGRAPH.
FROM WASICINGTON.
THE PROCEEDINGS OF CONGRESS.
THE BUTLER AND LEHIdAN CONTESTED
ELECTION CASE.
SPECULATIONS ABOUT A FORWARD
MOVEMENT
A SUCCESSFUL RECONNOISSANCE FROM
GENERAL SMITH'S DIVISION
MORE ARRESTS FOR AIDING THE ENEMY.
Special Despatches to "The Press."
• WASIIINGTON, Jan. 7, 1862
A New gxeitement.
Complaint has been made for some time past of
the fact that the Degrees in Washington have, in
many oases, donned the costume of the volunteer
soldiers of the army, and appeared in "full cos
tume " on Pennsylvania avenue, and other streets.
In order to remedy the evil—if it may be so called
—an order was issued by the Provost Marshal to
the patrol, to-day, that all negroes appearing in
such habiliments should be deprived of the same.
The consequence was that a great excitement was
created among the "colored persons "—increased
by tho fact that at an early hour several of thein
had bee'n stopped on the streets and obliged to
tt disgorge."
The first ease we noticed occurred at tho earner Of
Pennsylvania avenue and Sixth street. Here a
pleasant-looking darkoy, on horseback, who was
about crossing to the opposite side of the street, was
accosted by ono of the patrol, who immediately or
dereit him to dismount, and undress himself—he
being clad in a uniform rig—with the exception of
his pants Greatly surprised, Sambo got off his
horse, and after handing his cap to the patrol, en
deavored to got away. At this point he was re
quested to divest himself of his coat, wbioh request
woe immediately complied with, although rather
reluctantly, and in this condition the unfortunate
individual was allowed to depart, thankful, no
doubt, that he had not been obliged to mount his
steed en dishabille.
This course was pursued in the case of a number
of persons—of the color described—during the day,
and the affair was produotivo of tbo greatest mirth
among the passersby. Late in the afternoon colored
puilons" who sported their contraband articles
were scam, and not a few appeared with their
heads done up in coverings of the most outre de
scription.
The order upon the subject of negroos wearing,
military costume was issued shortly after the battle
of Bull Run, and for the first time it is now being
enforced.
AccidenCto a Philadelphian
This morning Mr. Monaca B. Eaamsir, a resi
dent of Philadelphia, who fell and broke his log, at
Willard's Hotel, a few days since, bad that member
amputated in this city. No fears are entertained
but that ho will speedily recover from the opera
tion.
A Movement on Foot
Much excitement was produced in this city this
morning in consequence of the understanding that
a general of a certain division not a hundred miles
from Washington had received orders to prepare
his command for marching within ten days. In
connection with this fact, and the sailing of the .
Burnside Expedition, it is no difficult matter to
imagine that the Government intends to inaugurate
very shortly a movement on a grand and liberal
scale, The interest of the nation demands that the
facts of the case should not be published ; but the
simple announcement is sufficient to awaken the
liveliest interest in the heart of every true lover of
his country.
Remgan Court Martini.
The MO of the prosecution having ended, the
evidence for the defence commenced to-day. Wit.
CLAMPIT, a resident of Washington, but whose
family resided on Mason's Hill, was the first wit
ness called for the defence. Ho and his son were
allowed by Col. to pass through the lines,
upon the urgent representation that his daughter
was very ill, And perhaps might not live. Mr.
CIAMPI; who appreciated Cal. KERRIGAN'S kind
ness, invited him to dinner tho next day, which was
Sunday. Col. KERRIGAN took both their passes
from them, but promised to return them, upon ap•
plication to headquarters, on Monday. On Sunday,
however, the rebels took possession of Mason's Hill,
and Mr. CLAMPIT was obliged to make a precipitate
escape. His son, JORN W. CIAMI'IT, a clerk in the
Interior Department, corroborated the testimony.
Capt. SHAW was introduced to identify Mr.
CIAMPI; as to whether he was the same person who
had passed through the lines without a pass. Ho
wntunahle fade so. although the witness positively
identified SHAW as the man who bed 'delved
them.
Shooting of our Prisoners at Richmond.
Mr. GILLETTE, of the Sevonty-first Now York
Regiment, one of the recently exchanged pri
soners, captured at Bull Run, states that a month
or so since Captain Gnonux C. (Bans, commander
of tho Confederate States prisons, at Richmond,
issued an order that the prisoners of the Union
army, confined in the tobacco warohousos there,
had a right to approach the windows at will ; and
that under no circumstances had the guard a right
to discharge his arm at them, except In ease of re
volt. It well known that previous to this time a
number of their prisoners had been shot by the
guards surrounding the places of their confinement,
for no other offence than that of appearing at the
windows and looking out upon the populace.
Capture of a Rebel Officer.
Last night, Col, HOWELL, of the Eighty-fifth
Pennsylvania Regiment, proceeded about twenty
miles from Washington to a house which was
known to be occupied by a Captain Glum, who
was captured. The latter was an officer of the robot
army, and had not long crossed from Virginia into
Maryland, where his family resided..
There were found in his possession numerous
letters directed to parties both North and South,
and also bundles of clothing, which doubtless ho
intended to transfer across the Potomac to Virginia.
The expedition returned fo Good Hope this morn
ing. They brought with them the prisoner, the pro•
porty, and several loads of forage.
Peruvian Minister to Mexico.
It appears that MiNum. NICOLAS COItPANCIIO,
who recently arrived hero, is not a Peruvian min
ster to the United States Government, but to
Mexico, and will soon leave for that country.
Successful Foragiug Expedition.
The reconnoitring and foraging expedition from
Gen SMITH'S division. sent out to-day, was success
ful, baying captured a largo quantity of forage. It
returned at an early.hour this evening, without
seeing anything of the enemy. The expedition
was accompanied by Col. FRIEDMAN'S Philadel
phia cavalry. Gm. PORTER'S division was under
arms to go to the assistance of Gen. Smase's
division, in case it should meet with any resistanoo
from the enemy.
Col. Harlan Removed.
Col. HAHLAN, of tho Elovonth Pennsylvania
Cavalry, has been removed from the service.
Sword Presentation
The officers connected with the First Regiment
Pennsylvania Reserves lately presented a handsome
sword to Dr. REEn, connected with the regiment.
Financial
The Committee of Ways and Means will report
to-morrow a bill authorizing the issue a a hundred
million dollars in demand treasury notes. A
movement will be made providing for their speedy
redemption on the basis of direct taxation.
The Defences of Pennsylvania. '
This evening a caucus of members of the Penn•
sylvania delegation was hold for the purpose of
considering the subject of fortifications on the
Delaware river. A sub-committee woo appointed
to obtain scientific information, and to report to the
committee for action at a future day. -
Resignation
Capt. SHAW has resigned from his position in
.KEItRICiAN'S regiment.
An Error.
The report that Col. KEItRIGAN has boon plamal
in irons is ontiroly nutria, as ho still remains at his
residenco in E street.
Arrival of a Contraband.
A contraband came into our lines, and was
brought up to Col. DAVIS, at Meridian Hill. He
was at Centreville ono week ago, and says that at
present there is no ordnance in position at that
point. The commissary department is ostensibly
at one•half rations, but really does not amount to
that.
The Navrgation of the Potomac
The Potomac, is filled with floating ice, and if the
cold weather continues three or four days longer,
it will be more effectually closed than it Is now by
the rebel batteries. The King Philip has cone
down for the purposo of keeping the channel open
between the city and Mattawoman's crook.
The Mortality in Berdan's Sharpshooters.
The mortality in REIMAN'S Sharpshooters during
the past few days has excited much remark. As
many as five have died in a single day. The regi
ment is now, however, rapidly improving in health.
e Regular Officers and Volunteers
Brigadier General Onn, and other equally expe
rienced regular officers, earnestly advocate the ex
pediency of placing regular officers in command of
every volunteer company, regiment, or brigade,
wherever the volunteer officers are found to ho in
oapable or unworthy. This will be a groat reform,
and will, of course, necessitate tho promotion of
trained and seasoned privates and subalterns in the
regular service. Mossy of these privates and subal
terns are fitted to lead regiments, and mostof them,
especially the sergeants, qualified for captains and
lieutenants.
The Contested Seat in the First District.
The report of the Committee on Elections in the
First Congressional district of Pennsylvania is in
favor of JOHN M. BUTLER and against' WILLIAM
E. LEntrsar, who occupies the seat in the House.
The minority of the committee, Messrs. WORCES
TER, MENZIES, and BROWN, hove come to a direct
ly opposite conclusion. The subject will be taken
up for consideration next week.
The Finances.
The Committee of Ways and Means has not yet
formally considered the financial scheme of the
Secretary of the Treasury.
The Demand Treasury Notes.
Tho bill matured by the Committee of Ways and
Means, authorizing the issue of demancl_treasury
notes, provides that, for temporary purposes, the
Secretary be authorized to issue, on the credit of
the United States, ono hundred millions of dollars.
of theta, bearing interest not payable generally
without specifying any place or time of payment,
and of such denominations as he may deem expe
dient, not less than five dollars each ; and such
notes, and all other treasury notes, payable on de
mand, not bearing interest, that have been here
tofore authorized to be issued, shall bo moire
blo for all debts and demands due to the
United States, and for all salaries, dues,
debts, and demands owing by the United States
to individuals, corporations, and associations within
the United Stoma, and shall also be lawful money
and u legal tender in payment of all debts, public
and private, and shall be exchangeable in sums not
less than one hundred dollars at any time at their
par value, at the Treasury of the United States and
at the offices of the Assistant Treasurers in New
York, Boston, Philadelphia, St. Louis, and at the
depositories in Cincinnati, for any of the six per
cent. twenty year coupon bonds or registered hoods,
which the Secretary of the Treasury is now or may
hereafter bo authorized to issue, and such treasury
notes shone received the same as coin at their par
value in payment for any bonds that may be here
after negotiated by the Secretary of the Treasury,
and such treasury notes may bo issued from time
to time as the exigencies of the public service may
require. There shall be printed on the back of the
treasury notes which may be issued under the pro
visions of this act, the following words "The
within note is a legal tender in payment of all
debts, public and private, and is exchangeable for
the coupons or registered bonds of the United
States bearing six per cent. interest."
The London World's Fair.
As the Navy Department has no vessel to detail
for carrying to London, as in 1851, the contributions
which Americana may desire to exhibit at the
'World's Fair, the President recommends that au
thority bo given to charter a suitable vessel for that
purpose.
Mileage for the Extra Session.
The appropriation for the compensation and
mileage of members of the House is under the
control of the Treasurer of the United States as
disbursing agent, and he has refused payment of
the claim for extra mileage, whenever presented;
nor has any mileage for the extra session been paid
to any Senators by the Treasury Department, be
fore the recent decision of the Secretary, as has
been erroneously stated.
Late from Annapolis.
The payment of the troops at Annapolis cont.
menced yesterday. All the bars and groceries were
closed, by order of the Provost Marshal, to prevent
the soldiers from obtaining liquor. Despite all the
precautions taken, some of the soldiers succeeded
' in getting drunk, and a murder was the result.
Tho Ira Harris cavalry, under command of Col.
FOREST, and three other cavalry regiments, have
been ordered into winter quarters at Annapolis. A
cavalry school of instruction will ho opened there,
under Gen. llATcrr, a graduate of West Point, and
a most competent officer.
The stabling for the four regiments is now in the
course of construction.
It is believed that the Expedition will be ready
to sail before the close of the week. The men are
all anxious to get away, as they are under the im
pression that they will have soma Mini fighting to
do as soon as they reach their destination.
Important Arrest.
The underground mail to Richmond is gradually
being broken up. Some time ago, information
baying reached Col HOWELL, of the Eighty-fifth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, Gen. CASET'S division,
at Fort Good Hope, Meryland, that a resident of
the neighborkald, alma fifteen miles front Fort
Good Hope, was convoying intelligence and goods
to the eremy, Colonel Ilowrimi sent out a force
to search his house found nothing, but learned that
at Capt. GWINN'S house, about fifteen miles distant,
something might be found. Upon searching his
house two largo boxes wore discovered, oefilaining
a large number of articles, such as clothing, letters,
packages, 4.c., directed to parties in the rebel army.
Capt. Owls's, who was formerly in the rebel army,
was arrested and brought to Washington, where ho
is now confined, preparatory to an examination.
Deaths of Pennsylvanians.
The following deaths among the Pennsylvania
troops have taken place since the last report :
J. W. NICKEHSON, CO. E, Fifty-seventh Penn
x-..i...tcore, at Columbian College; Cuss.
It. Dante, 0.. is, D:r...„
lunteers, at St. Elizabeth Hospital ; Jetta 13. You NG,
drummer-boy, Co. C, Forty-seventh Pennsylvania
Volunteers, at the Soldiers' Retreat, near the rail
road depot; THOMAS EARNER, CO. C, Twenty
third Pennsylvania Volunteers, at camp; hisnxes
TRIFOOS, CO.O, Ninety-sixth Pennsylvania Volun
teers, at camp; CHARLES F. BURNETT, CO. C,
Twenty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, at Camp
Graham; CHARLES BRENER, CO. F, Fortieth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, at camp ; Jens Ramona',
Co. C, One Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, at camp; CBRISTIAN STRIDENRAUCH,
CO. I, Ninety-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, in
camp, at Tennallytown.
Frauds in the Clothing Contracts.
Sense very serious frauds leave again been disco
vered in the clothing contracts. Tho Government
has appointed a board of survey, and they have en
tered earnestly upon their labors. The clothing is
manufactured of the most ilimsy„materials, and the
workmanship is of the most wretched description.
Such clothing would not last the soldiers over two
weeks. Some of it almost falls apart from its own
weight. •
Box after box of it has been torn up by the sur
veyor during the past two days. The loss falls on
the contractors, as none of it has yet been paid for
by the Government. These frauds have led to the
necessity of establishitg a Bureau of Clothing, which
will be recommended to Congress in the course of
the coming week.
The plan is to establish offices in Philadelphia,
Now York, and Boston, with the main depot at
'Washington. The mein office to bo under the charge
of a colonel or lieutenant colonel, and the branch
eflicea to be in charge of a major, and depots at
military posts to be in charge of captains. Under
the present arrangement, General Mews has too
much to attend to. Ho has charge of all the cloth
ing, transportation, forage, camp and garrison
, equipage, and supplies generally.
In the naval and marine departments there aro
branches for the different supplies.
The army has suddenly swelled from seventeen
to six hundred and fifty thousand men, and without
any reflection on Gen. MEWS, who stands above
reproach, a change is required.
From Port Tobacco.
A gentleman who same up, overland, from Port
Tobacco, this morning, represents the roads in a
deplorable condition. The health of the troops was
excellent. The works were rapidly approaching
completion, and, when they aro finished, a large
force under the protection of our batteries can
cross over into Virginia. The rebel batteries are
RS active as ever, and some of them appear to have
been reinforced during the past few days.
The New Appointments to the Army.
All nominations to the Senate, made since the be
ginning of the present session, must first be con
firmed before those appointed can enter upon the
discharge of their duties. '1 bus Brigadiers General
Binsourn. and D'UTACOY, and all nominations for
colonels, majors, captains, lieutenants, Ace., cannot
act until they are confirmed. All persons appoint
ed during the recess, however, continue to not, not
withstanding they have not been confirmed.
FROM MISSOURI.
ST. Loris, Jan. 7.—ln consequence of dispropor
tionate assessments having been made on the So
eefsionists of this city, under Order No. 21, Gen,
"Meek has appointed a now board of assessors to
revise the old list - and make such changes as they
may deem proper. All other proceedings will be
in accordance with the original order, and the
board are enjoined to assess no individual unjustly,
as there will bo no farther appeal from their deal
Mon.
Thorn is no doubt that Wm. A. Rail is elected t.
Congress from tho Third, and Thomas S. Price fron
the Fifth district.
SEDALIA, Mo., Jan. 7.—An express messenge
from Colonel Nugent's regiment, stationed at Was
Point, in Bates county, arrived here yesterday eve
fling, on his way to St. Louis, with important de
spatches to Governor Gamble. Ho loft Bates court
ty on Friday, and reports that Colonel Jennison ha.
burned the village of Austin, in Cass county, it
stead of Rose Bill. Jennison, afterleaving Austit
went in a northeasterly direction.
The Union men in Johnson county wore so ram
exasperated at the outrages that have been COMM!
ted by the Secessionists that nothing but the pr
Bence of the Federal troops will save the townef
Lexington and Warrensburg from being burnt.
The movantents of Colonel Jennison aro kept m 6
but enough is known to warrant the opinim tht
certain notorious rebels in Johnson county, ad
their dupes, will ho bagged.
A Government train of about twenty vogue
and seventy-five mon is reported to have bon
captured about five miles northeast of 0 eorgdom t
by a party of rebels. Tho intelligence WES en
veyed to Col. Thayer of the First Nebraskaßgi
merit, at Georgetown, who promptly despettlul a
pasty in pursuit
HIM THE UPPER POTOMAC.
GENRAL JACKSON RETIRED FROM
HANCOCK
WUPDED DESIGN OF AN ATTACK ON GEN
KELLY'S COMMAND.
FALSE RUMORS.
FRWRICII, Jan. 7.—The latest advices from
Hancn are, that last night Gen. Jackson retired,
lcavinply a battery and infantry guard in sight.
The relt of the shelling has been unimportant.
One red officer was seen to fall from his horse, and
is baled to have been killed. None are reported
woindi or killed on our side, notwithstanding the
extawgant rumors circulating hero about our men
haysgbeen cut up, etc., all of which rumors are
false
Jskan's rebel force consisted of ten regiments,
witha large baggage and supply train, and ton
dityleinked rations. It to not known whore ho
wontbut it is surmised that ho intends to attack
(awd Kelly's command. General Banks' Third
brigw left bore yesterday morning and arrived at
Ilagatown, twenty-six miles distant, at t o'clock
yestday evening. No stragglers wore left along
the ute. This march was performed through
throor four inches tit snow. They would probably
renciflancock by noon to-day. General Lander
has /en assigned to the comma of General
Kell, division, and 'General Williams takes corn
menet Hancock.
Th Connecticut Fifth Regiment returned here
last '.ursday from Hancock, and marched again
within Third Brigade, to which they are attached,
yestday morning. They have not boon attacked,
as wtetated, nor been in a position to be attacked
shammy loft Hancock, yesterday a week.
THE LATEST.
FEDERICI:, Jan. 7.—A1l is quiet at Hancock
FROM CAIR O.
Csto, Jan. 7.—Flag Officer Foote, with the gun
boatessex, Lexington, and Tyler, made a mon
noisome down the Mississippi this morning. He
went ithin two hundred yards of the range of the
rebelatteries. On his return he was fired at by
the nal gunboat Mohawk, to which he replied,
but Ilshots all fell short.
Thfing officer is highly satisfied with the mom.
noissam, and bas examined all points on the river
as mesas two miles to Columbus.
A opateh from Cape Girardeau to-day says
that i detachment of the Seventh Glino's Ca
valry,shile scouting, had captured Major Wil
linms,f Jeff Thompson's band.
Thesurveyor of the port of Metropolis has
seized large quantity of gold lace, morphine, and
other )stly drugs intended for the rebels. The
goods ere from Cincinnati.
From Gem Banks' Command
FRIERICK, Jan. 7.—The Masonic cerebration of
last wdi partook so much of the character of a
milihr affair that it is deemed appropriate to add
the foswing :
Thepron worn by General Lafayette during his
last vit to this country, and which is now the pro
perty ;Dr. Dorsey, P. W. M., has been treasured
as a ared emblem of the Order by its past and
presorowner, and was worn on this occasion by Dr.
Baste of the Third Wisconsin. It had been but
twice übliely displayed since worn by Lafayette.
Win the roll of visiting members was called by
Statorauch to the surprise of all present, Captain
Tayla of the Thirtieth Pennsylvania, responded
for Tcas. He was ono of the gallant defenders of
that hpublie its her struggle for a national exist
ence.
TM following States were represented : New
Empire, Massachusetts, Connectiout. New York,
Penrolvanin, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois,
Wisccsin, Maryland, Virginia, Texas, and Canada.
Colo' Pilaulsby, of the Maryland Home Guard,
presidi at the festival.
Mar regular and volunteer toasts wore also
drankamong which was t , The wives and sweat
heartsf brother Masons, who are tar from their
homes'
A lder from the Twelfth Indiana, at Sharpsburg,
inforn that a portion of the political prisoners ro
contlyent from Williamsport to Washington were
oaptind at Shepherdstown, by a detachment from
that riiment.
On to 2d inst., the pickets of company A, Twelfth
Indian, brought into camp five, prisoners—ono
whitooan, named Jacob Ash, arrested for building
a beamed otherwise aiding the enemy, and four
negro), who were making their escape from 'Vir
ginia. Ono of the latter had been engaged in the
oapa&y of teamster in the rebel army, and the
otherslaim to be froonegroa from Shepherdstown.
They Tort sixty to eighty cavalry encamped near
that rice. There aro also two companies of militia
at Nolan Spring, one mile east of Shepherdstown.
It is °ported by another source that the rebel
picket have been recently strongly reinforced all
along to river from Shepherdstown to Little ti corps
town, early opposite the four locks, above Dam
No. s.lsloat of the pickols aro withdrawn from our
obeerxtion during the day, but return in force after
nightfl.
FIIEERICK, Jan. 6.—Snow fell last night two
and a all inches deep, upon a hard-frozen ground,
and th sleigh belle are merrily jingling this morn
ing
ei was considerable commotion, yesterday,
intelligence
frommilary circles, in consequence of
from lincoek that Jackson had suddenly appeared
° PP fI t l ll l-13FISY4 1 ,'
guns. le e sent word to Gon. Lander to- evacuate
that pleoc or ho would shell us out. Lander re
sponded nat ho should not evacuate, and if Jack
son opens Ere on the town ho would hold him to a
strict actnntability. Jackson responded that ho
should ammo the responsibility, and carry out his
threat. onseguently, ho commenced a steady tire,
which 153 continued up to dark last night, tho date
of the hest despatch up to this time. The enemy's
fire caul but slight damage to the buildings, and
taking i effect upon our troops.
On rwipt of the first despatch, ordors wore sent
to all or brigades and independent detachments to
providstwo days' rations, and for the wagons to
take foNlaya more; also, that all should be ready
to man on short notico. Late at night Gen. Wil
liams' bird Brigade, being the nearest to the point
of actin, took up the line of march. Some heavy
and list artillery wore also forwarded with de
spatch
Genßa.nics' Thireßrigade loft here at 5 o'clock
yestorey. and arrived at Hagerstown, 26 miles, at
yesterday afternoon. •No stragglers were
left abg the route.
Thi march was performed through three and
four bhes of snow, and they will probably reach
Benoit at noon to-day.
Get Lander is assigned to the command of Gen.
Kelly division, and Gon. Williams takes command
at liscock.
'fishiest from Hancock states that all was quiet
there
Thmost extravagant reports prevail of our hay-
Inc lon cut up, which, of course, are all false.
Deo. 7.--The Connecticut Fifth Ito
ginid returned here last Thursday from Hancock,
end narehed again with the Third Brigade, to
whim they were attached, yesterday morning.
The have not Been attacked, ns stated, nor been
in ai position to be attacked since they loft Han
coel yesterd ny week.
Ne 4 York Legislature—The Governor's
Message.
MANY, Jan. 7.—The Legislature mot to-slay.
Thtiovernor's message briefly reviews the present
contian of •the country, and says the State credit
new stood higher ' and the finances are in satis
leery condition. The balance in the treasury in
Sepinber, 1861, was $3,075,000, and the war tax
ha , been reduced from $2,000,000 to $1,500,000,
!of per cent. of the advance made by the State
bang boon returned by the United States Trott-
o recommends that the military drill and tactics
beintroduced into all the State collegiate and ace.
deic institutions; that the State's proportion of
thUnited States war tax be assumed at once. He
rommends lel,•islation to make tho State laws con
foe to those of Congress, to improve the efficiency.
at discipline of the State militia. The aggregate
nYiber of men raised in the State, for the war, has
ken 130,578, of which 89,034 are now in the Sold,
al there are 14,500 now in the State. He mom
ends that the State Treasurer shall receive and
Ours° the volunteers' allotments to their families.
Ho alludes to the harbor defences, urging that
psept measures to obtain Congressional appropria
ins to piovido for the coast defences are noces
ry, recommending that the State proceed at once
hit the work. War with England is deprecated
fraught with untold disasters at this time, when
a Stateis resources are so largely drawn upon to
rerwholm the rebellion. Ho concludes with the
coloration that Ness York will do everything to
retain the Union.
ALIIANY, N. Y., Jan. 7.—llonry J. Raymond
vas elected Spanker of the Home of Assembly
O day.
From Ilarristrorg.
ANtiTANT IiENERAL APPOINTED-PRESIDENT
JUDGE OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY
HAntitstinno, Jan. 7.—C01. A. J. Russell, of
ittsburg, formerly Secretary of State under Go
vernor Johnston, and since the rebellion aid-de
camp to Governor Curtin, has been appointed Ad
jutant General of the State, vice E. M. Boddie re
signed. No better or more fitting appointment
could have been made. Tho Governor has been
fortunate in thus securing for this important posi
tion a gentleman whose long connection with the
departments, both civil and military, has rendered
him thoroughly conversant with their minutest de
tails. This fact, together with his well-known
ability, urbanity of manner and business capacity,
will insure him a highly successful administration,
as is earnestly desired by hosts of friends. Ho en
ters upon the discharge of his duties at once.
F. P. Sterrett has been appointed President
Judge of Allegheny county, vice Judge McClure,
deceased.
The Governor's message will bo sent to the two
Houses at noon to-morrow.
The Lacrosse and Milwaukee Railroad
Company.
11111.w.tuumm, Jan. 7.—judge Miller, in the
United States Court today, ordered a decree in
the second mortgage case against the Lacrosse and
Milwaukee Railroad Company, in favor of the
bondholders at 50 cents on the dollar. There is to
be no sale if the interest is paid In the Land Grant
case, the high numbers are placed on an equal
lion with the low numbers, at 40c. on the dollar.
The bonds are to be first sold for the interest. If
the interest is paid, there is to be no sale of the
road.
Explosion at the Portsmouth Navy Yard.
BOSTON, January 7.—The steam boiler in the
Portsmouth navy yard connected with the Ordnance
department, exploded yesterday, billing engineer
Bridges, demolishing a largo chimney, HO feet in
height, and causing other damage.
The French Princes at Boston.
BOSTON, Jan. 7.—The Count do Paris and Duo
do Chartres arrived hero yesterday.
Destruction of Glass Works nt Pittsburg.
PITTSBURG, Jan. 7.—Philips & Bests' glass works
'ere destroyed by fire this morning. Tho loss is
estimated nt .5125,000, on whirls there is an insu
rance of $lO,OOO.
XXXVIITII CONGRESS--FIRST SESSION.
WASHINOTOY, Jan. 7, 1382
BEN ATE.
Mr. POMEROY, of Hone., and Mr. CHANDLER,
of Mallon, presented petitions for the emancipation of
tinyes.
Mr. CHANDLER also presented a petition for the
exchange of prisoners.
Mr. WILSON, of Massachusetts, from the Committee
on 'Military Affairs, reported back the bill in regard to
tbe nppolutmont of sutlers, silth amendments. Ordered
to be printed.
Mr. HALM, of New Hampshire, offered a resolution
that the Naval Committee be instructed to inquire how
tho practice prevailed in the nary of 'making purchases
through other than the recognized agents, and if any
such Led been made, whether larger prices were paid.
The resolution was agreed to.
He also gave notice that ho should introduce a bill to
punish fraud on the United States Treasury.
Mr. POWELL, of Kentucky, introduced a bill to
abolish the franking privilege.
Mr. DAVIS, of Kentucky, offered a resolution, that the
Secretary of War be requested to report to the Senate the
aggregate number of three-year volunteers, in what
classes they served, stc. Agreed to.
On motion of Mr. SHERMAN, of Ohio, the bill to in
crease the number of cadets at West Plum was taken np.'
The question was on the amendment that cadets be
dismissol it found deflciont in their studieo, and was dis
agreed to.
Mr. TRUMBULL, of Illinois, opposed the passage of
the bill. He believed it was owing to West Point that
the vole has languished as it has. If West Point was
abolished, military tactics would be taught all over the
country H e was opposed to increasing the number of
cadets, especially at this time.
Mr. CLANK, of New Hampshire, said he would not
vote for the bill now; bat ho could not join in the tirade
against West Point. Treason had been Insight more he
the Semite of the United States than in the school at
West Point.
Mr. GRIMES, of lowa, said there never was a greater
mistake than the euprlosition that West Point was a nur
sery for treason. The facts showed the very reverse.
For twelve yenta the leaders of the rebellion had control
of the army, and the GM ernment itself taught rebellion,
by the manor in which it conducted army affairs. He
sold the bill only increased the number of cadets sixty
two. Wu have increased the army largely, and for offi
cers to this largely increased army only propose this
small increase of cadets. Tim increased expense by this
arrangement will only be $36,900. Our volunteers would
rather be cummathal by regular army officers.
litr. LANE, of Rums, said the trouble II AS that there
sees no board to separate the stupid from those who have
brains, and the greatest trouble WO have is the stupidity
of-some army officers and their want of common sense.
Mr. DOOLITTLE, of {Viscount!, thought the best re
form that could he introduced would bo the oncourago
mont of promotions from the ranks of the army. One ob
jection ho had to est Point woo Ito oxclusiyonesa.
Mr. WIDSON, of Masanchusette, was ready to aban
don the bill on the ground of economy. Be thought wo
Amnia immediately begin to economize, and if necessarYi
reduce ell salaries in the army. But on no other ground
would ho vote against the bill.
Mr. NESMITH, of Oregon, said ho was glad to hear
an argument for the sake of economy. We had the
gratifying spectacle of half a million of man ,ready to
make war on the rebels, and another half million wait-
ing to steal something from the Government. He thought
it would be better to emulate the example of Napoleon,
and elevate thieves on the treasury by the neck.
Mr. HALE, of New Hampshire, said the army wan
ready to make war on the treasury. and had made a bril
liant monetary campaign. He said it with shame that
many of the highest officers of the Government are not
exempt from the censure uhich ought to rest on this
army. Ile thought it would yet be necessatY to DlllllBll
thieves on the treasury by death. But wo must practice
economy on these little things. Something must be done
to purge the Government of thieves and robbers on the
treasury, or else we would have a rebellion in the North.
Ito declared that the war was not now against the rebels
on the other side, but against the plunderers on this side,
and called on every man vt ho thought he had a country
to defend, to defend it against blows more deadly than
these struck by the rebels. The peril le at haute—among
ourselves. Ho thought no should immediately lay a tax
of 5.200,000,000, and see to it that it was well and pro
- perly expended.
Tho discussion was continued at some length, when the
Senate refused to pass the bill—yeas 12, nays 25.
Mr. POWELL, or Kentucky, moved to take up the
bill to punish fraud on the Treasury, brought in at the
extra session, but Oct passed, in consequence of a letter
from Quartermaster General bleigs, stating that it could
not be executed.
The bill sins taken up, and recommitted to the Com
mittee on the Judiciary.
On molted: of Mr. WILSON, of Massachusetts, the bill
in relation to the arrest of persons claimed to be held to
service or labor by officers of the army and navy was
token
Mr. SAULSBURY, of Delaware, moved to postpone
the bill indefinitely. Not agreed to :
Yr:as—Messrs. Bayard, Cackle, Cowan, Davis, John
son of Tenuesee, Kennedy, Latham, Nesmith, Pearce,
Powell, Rice, Saulsbury, and Thomson-13.
NAYS—Messrs, Drowning, Chandler, ()lank, Cannier,
essenden, Foster, Orioles, Hale ' Harlan,
Barris, Doolittle,Bowe, King, Lane of Indiana, Merrill, Pomeroy,
Sherman, Sumner, Ten Ey ck, Trumbull, Wade, Wilkin
son, and Wilsor —23.
The bill provides that any officer detaining such par
rons shall be elbscharged from the service of the litt!' e d
States
Oil motion of Mr. CATtLILN, of Vire.hin, tho further
consideration of tho snhieet was PoetVone,l.
Ln motion of far. FOSTER, of Connecticut, the re
port of thu catnnUttee on tho Judiciary on the contested
seat from Kansas was taken up.
The Senate then adjourned.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
A message on read from the President, communica
ting the papers in the Trent affair, heretofore published.
A motion was made referring them to the Committee
on Foreign Affairs.
Mr. VALLANDIG HAM said: I avail myself, sir, of
Ms, tie (11liebt oppottnnity offered, to express my utter
and strong condemnation, as one of the representatives of
the people, of the act of the Administration in surren
dering - Mason and Slidell to the British Government.
For al: creeks, sir, they were hold in close custody, a,
traitors, in a fortress of the Milled States, by order of
the Secretary of State, and with the approval and ap
plause of the piece, of the public men, of the Navy De
partment, of this Douse and of the people of the United
States, with a full knowledgo of the manner and all the
circtunstatces of their capture r and yet, in six days
after the imperious and poreniptory demand of Great
Britain, they It ere abjectly surrendered, upon the mere
rumor of the approach of a hostile fleet. And thus, for
the find time in our nation .1 hiatory, havo wo strutted
insolently into a quarrel, without right, and then basely
crept out of it without honer. And thus, too, for the find
time, has the American eaglo boon made to cower bolero
the British lion.
Fir, a vassal or fettered and terror-stricken press, or
senile end sycophantic politicians, in this House or out
of it, may applaud the act, end fawn and flatter, and
lick the hand whirl, Las thus smitten down our honor
into the dust lint the people, now or hereafter, will de
o uerrible reckoning for this most unmanly surren
der. Bet I do not trust tar evil to speak of ft us's , ' as /
prOpo.,o acme Aar to speak, and I rose only to Pit on re
cord my emphatic protest against ft, and to express my
deep cons lotion that the very war which the other day
might !MVO been molded by combined firmness and sola
rium] la now Inevitable. Sir, this surrender may be no fault
of the Secretary of State, but ho line sown, I fear, the dra
gon's teeth by this his fatal despatch, and armed men
will spring from it. In the mums of God, sir, what does
England want with Mason and Slidell? It was a surren
der of the claim of the right to seize onboard of her ships
under her flag that she demanded, and yet this is the very
thing Ito. Seward pertinaciously refuses, and ho only
condemned Captain Wilkes because he did not enforce
thus asserted right with greater seserity against the of
'fending neutral ship. Why, sir, then by the principles of
this despatch, if is merchant vessel, as at first intended,
Ind been employed to carry these men out from Fort
Warren to England, she might to-day have been arrested
on the high cern, and they dragged from her deck, pro
vided only she was forthwith brought back to the port of
Boston for confiscation. But more than this, England
needs—l do not say wants—war; but the must and will
have it, and this Administration acted fromtho beginning
as if it was their purpose to oblige her in it to the utmost.
Look Into a our diplomatic correspondence; look at your
stone fleet. But let that pass. Who, I ask, among all
flue millions of this country, or men in this House, or
tho Senate, or the Administration itself, in the midst
of the dead calm of security which broods now over
all, has reflected for a moment upon the significance of
the malts of the planing hour 1 A British, man-of-war
to-lay bears to the slimes of England, to he received
there In triumph end with Amite of exultation, as mar
tyre and ben es, the guests of the tempts or rn.4141111, and
the prong. es of her ministers, the very men who, but for
the rnsb net of Captain Wilkes, rind the still rasher en
deralla ruts of the Administration and the country', would
Mx Weeks ago lustre been quietly landed from a private
ship, in quiet and obscurity, as rebels and refugees. All
Europe echoes now with their names,. All Europe will
rise up to do them honor. Ana yet you aurrendered them,
did yon, to escape recognition by England of the rebel
&eh e, and your Secretary of State, with Christian resig
nation or stoic publicist - Thy, calmly remicee that ti e effectual
check and waning proportions of the insurrection, as well
no the comparative unimpet refire, Whelk 15 eighod dispas
sionately, of the persons concerned, happily enable the
Administration, lifter six weeks of experiment, to cheer
fully literate them, and thus to remove this "tetefrinict
canes belli." Sir, give me lease to ray, that the mo
ment they stepped upon the deck of a British man-of-soar,
your prisoners of State whom, the oilier de., you would
have consigned to felon's cells, became indeed the envoy's
and ambaesaulors of a recognized independent State. And
I predict here, to-day, that, in spite of this deep national
humiliation, or rather, perhaps, because of it, and in
spite. too, of the surrender, without protest, of the Mon
roe doctrine—fcr forty years the choicest and proudest
policy of t)ds Government—in less than three months we
will he at wnr with Great Britain, or else, intho mean
time, will have tamely submitted also to the recognition
of the Cold, Berate States and the breaking sip of your
blockrule. Courage, courage, sir, is the first and best of
peacen alters. I know well, of course, sir, that, like all
other similar predictions, for some years past, In regard
to our Public affalis, you will trent this ono also with
scoffing end Incredulity ; but I put it on record hero to
day. "The prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hudetit
himself ; but tan simple pass on and are punished."
Mr. HUTCHINS, of 011ie, congratulated the country
and the Haase that Ilia colleague, who heretofore had
been on the peace establishment, was now on the war
estalilialgnent.
Mr. VALLANDIGIIAM, Interrupting, remarked, on
the war
Mr. HUTKIIINS, resuming, told he did not propose
to discuss whether the surrender of Mason and Slidell
- was proper or improper. He wished very briefly to
comment on the attitude of his colleague on this and other
questions connected with the welfare of tics country.
Mr. YALLANDIGIIA BI rose to a point of order. Ito
had no doubt he would liars the refit liege of replying to
hie colleague, and he thought, without vanity, ho would
be able to take cote of himself. but he could not see how
his position MI other subjects as as pertinent to that now be
fore tho House. The question of Slidell and Mason was
net the lawition of Clement L. Yallandigham.
The SPEAKER requested Mr. Hutchens to confine
himself to the question before the House.
Mr. HUTCHINS, lemming, said he understood his
colleagnele position to be ' that, since tile unfortunate re
bellion broke out, hohasbeen against coercion And in fa
vor of peace. Ito did net understand why it was that his
colleague was so warlike against England and not against
the rebels, who were seeking to overthrow the Govern
ment. It was reported, that so much was 1113 colleague
In Moor of peace, that he asserted Hat before any citi
zens of his district should leave Ohio to fight against the
Poetic they should march over his dead body
Mr. VALLANDIGHAM asked, did not his colleague
know that ho had denounced that sentiment 113 one ho
had Level made, either here or elsewhere t What rea-
Full had lin for picking up and reiterating the floating
einfalers of Le last nix 'Pontiff
Mr. HUTCHINS responded that he Taunt accept the
denial of the gentleman, butt he thought front the policy
advocated by his colleague ' he was Justi fi ed in believing
that his colleague occupied scrams hat tho position to
which lie had aesigned
Mr. KELLOGG, of Monis rising ton point of order,
ant I this controversy was irrelevant to the subject before
the Mouse.
The SPEAKER overruled the point, lint suggested
that the gentleman should avoid personalities,
Mr. HUTCHINS, resuming, said, if his rolleague
would rend an article ',Odell recently appeared in the
Richmond Examiner, ho would find that a war with
England was what the rebels desire. The position of his
colleague on this mid other questions Was liable to the
suspicion that his belligerent course toward England
might tend to the benefit of the rebellious States. lie
colleague with against coercion in one case, but in favor
of war in the other. This suspicion would stand against
hint until ins colleague shall satisfactorily explain him
self.
Mr. VALLANDIGHAM. That is but another of the
same class of (molts.
Mr. HUTCHINS said he may hare iulaunderstood his
colleague. At all events, when acid whore bet his col
league, from the commencement of this rebellion, ever
voted for a measure tending to subdue the rebellion and
to re•estahlish the authority of the United States I The
records of this House scarcely show a vote or speech of
his colleague in which ho did not oppose the ear over
Fin. its commencament Ile believed that was in fair
gatement of the position of his colleague. And now he
would have held on to Mason and Slidell in order that it
might tesult in n war with Croat Britain for the benefit
of the rebels
Air. THOMAS, of as.qs.i.-linsoN, said that this gnat-
Hon involved points of law and some nicety. It was too
much to ASSIIIIIO that this country could tako another
ai or on Its hands, and we must wait. But wo are not
called on to say that the demand of England W 134 manly
and just. It nos unmanly and unjust. - ITi. dentel that,
in capturing Mason end Slidell, an insult to the British
ling and a violation of International tau 1080
and he argued that ne had a light to do whet wosdone
on that occasion. When Om whole matter shall be
calloh And thoroughly consideloa, thin Wktgilt oI
argument of the cis ihiood world 'l/ out! he with
Os. We iota o had but the laid impression, not the
Fol tr, second thought. The question ou the other
side he, not n hat the rule is, but what the tith , should
It oiii he seen and felt that no wrong was done to Eny-
Ln and no insult tittered to her Bag, for nonAvas 131-
tended. Our failings, if anY, hare leaned to virtue's
side, and the departure from the rigor of the intorno-
Sonsl law by Captain Wilkes was from motives of hu
inanity. England has done to 113 a grievous wrong in
making the demand for Mason and Slidell. It was inso
lent In spirit and unjust. England has placed in the
hearts of our people a deep mime of wrong as a time
miler, an cannot respond; but we shall be watching
through the watches of the night to strike the blow of
rigl.•teous retilbution.
Mr. STEVENS, of Pennsylvania, moved the previous
question, under the °Oration of which the documents
were referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
The House then went Into Committee of the Whole
on jho state of the Union on the bill for the payment of
sundry civil expenses.
VALLANDIGUADI thanked Mr. Thomas for the
temper of his speech and its statesmanlike views. It was
in striking contrast with the remarks or his colleague,
(Mr. Hutchins.) If the doctrine announced by the
gentleman from Massachusetts be correct, his speech was
more open to the censure of the Administration than lag
own. Be entered into an explanation of his position,
hurling back tho insinuations that he was giving aid and
comfort to the enemy. ills colleague was nut the proper
one to judge as to his motives.
Mr. WRIGHT, of Pennsylvania, corrected a garbled
report of a speech he recently made on the occasion of
a serenade. The reporter, in saying that he had aecittred
in favor of the extension of slavery, was guilty of an un
mitigated falsehood. Ile was willing to do all In his
power to put down the rebellion. Under the present cir
curnetauces, be would have no controversy with the Ad
ministration for surrendering Mason and Slidell, for wo
have as much on our hands now as we can sustain. Put
if these men had to be surrendered, it should have boon
done under protest, and we should remember that this
nos it question hereafter to be settled with Enalnul. '
In the coupe of a colloquy between Mr. WALLA.N
DIJIIAM and Mr. WRIGHT, the former asked the
latter whether he would be in favor of a nar with Eng
land if she breaks the blockade.
Air 'WItIGHT replied that he would be in favor of
{N Or, abether the blockage were broken by England or
any other foreign Power, for we would thereby be placed
in a petition from which wo could not escape.
Hr. DIVEI7, of New York, did not believe that in stir
rendming Mason nod Slidell our country has placed
itself in an attitude of humiliation. When this pi eased
lug shall be scanned by oilier nations, it would be found
that the only people humiliated are those claiming to be
nadir the Government of the self constituted Southern
Confederacy. They aro already distressed because a
war betacen Great Britain and the United States has
beer, averted. They would like to see this country
crippled ant humbled. It is the wish of their heart.
He spoke of the liberal statesmanship of the Secretary of
Hato, who bad adhered to round International law; and
in conclusion, congratulated the country that we have
escaped war.
Mr. KELLEY, of Pennsylvania, said he had voted for
the resolution of thanks to Captain Wilkes. The [louse
had thus endorsed the act. Not so with the Administras
lion, Ile did not wish to see a sear with England—be
did not feel humiliated by the settlement of the Trent
affair. Let as settle our domestic difficulties, and then
be prepared for future events. But what have we done I
Why are six hundred thousand men in the field 7 Where
is the evidence of a determined war that we have hitherto
exhibited for foreign nations '1 Wo are carrying on the
war upon peace principles, and the main duty performed
during the last seven months has been to prevent deser
tions from the enemy.
This Is a melancholy truth. Let us show something of
the rigor of war. England does not regard international
law, but does regard power. Let the boom of cannon and
rattle of musketry ho heard. Let her hear the shouts of
victors blending IN ills the groans of the dying. Thou
there would be no trouble as to a foreign war. So long
as our atones are acting merely as policemen, to prevent
the escape of those who would dtg our trenches for us. so
long wit foreign nations deprecate our power, and to
that extent elevate their pretentious and demands Ile
contended that we should cat off all the resources of the
rebels
A resolutirn was passed restricting the debate to the
business before the liouse—namely, the bill making ap..
propriations for sundry civil expenses, 'Lchiding those
connected with the Coast Survey, Light blouse Estab-
Ilehment, Patent Office, exploring expeditions, survey of
the public lards, and the Insane Asylum.
Without coming to Pll9 conclusion on the bill, the
committee rose, and the Houto adjourned.
PENNSYLVANIA LEGISLATURE.
HARRISBURG, January 7, len.
HOUSE.
the House of Representatives was called to order at
12 o'clock DI. by E. H. Bosch, Clerk of the House of
1861. Prayer was delivered by Rev. Dir. Cotten.
The decretary of the Commontrealth being introduced
presented the returns of the election of members ; In
cases of contested seats the returns and pretests being
both rend.
Two certificates w era banded in from Luserne county.
One of them declared that Peter Walsh, S. W. Trimmer,
and Wm S. 8099 ' ere duly elected, and the other set
forth that Wm. S. Ross, 11. V. Hall, and Robert F. Rus
set, n ere entitled to seat..
Thu last named certificate, signed by two (:bll-12, iq
clmled the army rote.
31r. KANE, of Fayetto OfiliPti Lt . ., following
resolution :
Resolved, That sc SI
net's- n Judges of Luzern° coun
ty did declaret S.W. Trimmer,Peter Walsh, and
'
Wm S
..
oss are entitled to their setts, that they be de
...area members.
The CLERK declared the resolution out or order.
Mr. KAN} maintained the opposite. -
After debate, participated in by Dles6re DUFFIE'LD,
KANE, El °PRINS, aud others,
Mr. DENNIS, of Plladelphis, nrgned that the clerk
could entertain no business not directly concerning Ste
organization.
The desk refaced to entertain an appeal.
Sir. ELLIOT, of Tioga ' moved that the House pro
ceed to the election of a Speaker. On tins it was finally
decided by the clerk that the yeas and nays should be
celled. The yens were 51, and the nays 41. Nomina
tions were made, and the result of the vote was: For
John Rowe, 63; for Wm. Dopkins, .15; for Thos. W.
Doff:edit, 1; for Wm. B. Ross, 1.
The Speaker elect took the chair, and delivered the fol.
lowing address:
ADDRESS OF SPEAKER 'town
Gentlemen of the House of Representatives: With
feelings of deep sensibility and sincere gratitude, I re
ceive this distinguished mark of your regard and confi
dence. I accept the office your kind partiality has con.
ferred upon me, with the diffidence and appreheredo is
which a knowledge of the arduousness of its duties gene
rally, and of the present peculiar delicacy and responsi
bility of the trust, unavoidably produces.
In the endeavor to meet tho requirements of this sta
tion, and to Arbil the reasonable expectations of this
noose, I shrill depend alone on the zeal, attention, and
fidelity which I shall bring to the discharge of my duties.
Shrinking from no responsibility, however grave, from no
duty', hem ever painfui, I shall endeavor to be equal to the
labor and burden, at least, of this position.
Without zealous cm.operation, and a generous confi
dence, on your pert, I am welt aware that this (their wilt
be wanting in authority, and the proceedings of the
House be without that order and decorum a hick it is the
peculiar province of the chair to preserve and enforce.
Ibis co-operation and confidence, with a largo indul
gence,
I beg at your bands.
seize this occasion to offer you my hearty congratu
leonw.- awn one proud position which our noble old COM..
menus milli holds to-day among her sisters of vie Unto..
She bas been true to the memory of her earlier days.
Her people, her legislators, her Executive, have risen to
the magnitu le of the demands of this crisis In the affairs
of our beloved country. She has known no divided dotty.
Her sons were not the last among the freemen of the
North to take down the muskets of their patriotic fathers
for the preservation of the liberties which they at so dear
a cost aided to win. Her place so for, in this great 0011-
test, lies been In the van, and whoever,grasping the
standord of the Constitution, shall march foremost and
farthest to vindicate the supremacy °Me nation's (awe
and to maintain the integrity of the Union, will, I am
persuaded, find the representatives of Pennsylvania close
by his side.
Again, I thank yon cordially for the honor you have
conferred upon me.
The SPEAKER then invited Mr. Bighorn, of Alleghe
ny, to administer the oath to the members, who were then
all either sworn or affirmed.
On niotton of Mr. DUFFIELD, a committee wag op.
pointed to wait upon the Governor, awl Inform him that
the House was ready to proceed to business.
It w es also weed that the sessions of the House should
be from 11 A. M. to 1 o'clock P. M.
On motion of Dlr. MOORE, a committeo was appointed
to wait upon the Senate.
The 801190 then adjourned
DM!
The Senate was called to order at 3 o'clock F.M. by
LOUI SW. HALL, Speaker.
The credentials of the new members were presented,
red, on motion, the Senate proceeded to the election of
Speaker, which resulted as follows: For L. W. Hall, 21;
lllr Cranford, 9.
E.ENATOUS : I thank yen for the kind partiality which
hos raised me to the dignity of your presiding ellicer.
accept the honor with diffidence in my ability to fulfil
your expectations, but with the determination, BO fur as
In me lice, to gin o to the duties of the positiOn my indus-
It ions and imps' tial efforts, and I claim, as I have no
doubt I shall receive, at your hands, indulgence towards
myself, Is hilst you exercise forbearance end courtesy to
w aids eacli other. I cannot but be impressed with the
lit ellest emotions of pleasure at this generous confidence
on y our part, animating nie anew in the discharge of
public duty; I yet feel how idly I would employ your
tense in felicitating myselt upon the attaiument of civic
honors to this w awful and rugged crisis," when, above
all personal considerations, tile salvation of thu Republic
should engage an our thoughts
Wo meet in stirring tinsel. An epoch in our national
life ie upon no. Es elite of vast importance in quick site•
cession cluster fast, decisive, perhaps of our destiny, per
haps of the destiny of rt anitind For let Oda Government
be overthrown from within Itself. and who can Say hut
that its great underlying principle, the capacity of man
for aelf-government, shall be thrown aside fur the future,
by the people of the world, no a failnro I
Our State is inseparably linked with all the others.
Wu share a common fate. either of disgrace and ruin, or
Permanent power and glory. All otter ,suestions of po
litical economy, or governmental policy, are merged in
the one great halls of national life or death. For what
ore all other intercede worth, without a Government that
can maintain itself I What tether public calamity can be
compared to the national overthrow I Wars have ',kited
our 00111411 p hi times past, waged by the savages of the
forest, and the self-styled •tmistresa of the seas." Pesti
lence has, at various times, wasted us; public credit has
gone down, Mink, succeeding waves of financial rot Osten
ept the social state. Yet, blessed by a benign Gc
mutant, our country has outlived them all. But
where is the hope of resurrection from the geese
of naittenal disintegration I We cannot be too deeply,
anxiously impreased with the conviction that sinless we
conquer In thus struggle all is lost. There can be no peace
unless we conquer peace. If see 8110111.101 en tender the
Oliva branch, :I thought which cannot be entertained for
a single moment, the rebellions States would it isdainfulli
reject it. All the sacrifice that may be undo in this war,
all the treasure that may be expended, all the evils that
are Inseparable front It, awl which the Inimme croakers
for prime are constantly aggravating, are light In coin
pariAm with the untold evils which mould fellow a tri
umplinut rebellion. But if wo could even agree upon a
peaceable separation, bow long would peace continue I
The disloyal I' • ontbern Statea,intoxicated with success,
would be more aggressive, domineering, and unscrupu
lous than ever before. An eternal . conflict of jarring In.
would entail interminable internal wars upon all
our posterity, whilst our weakened, divided, demoralised
condition mould constantly invite the aggressions of the
gi lisping potentates of Europe. If this Government hiss
not the power of subduing a rebellion, it Las not
the pow or of preserving itself. It is now on its
great trial. Now is the time for the solution
of the grand problem. European monarchists point
to this country as the last great exemplification of
the impo.ibility of a permanent Republic. Do they pre
dicate the failure of ore countcy on the mere fact that
civil war exists I What nation In alt history lists been
exempt Dem it I Is it peculiar to republieo7 Then,
w hence the civil sines that,froreher earliest history Inuit
recent reigns, have time and again ravaged and scourged
the British empire'? Why is ft that England, safely
moored in that quiet core of blest tranquillity, a limited
tuonarcby. has been frequently turn from her moorings
and tossed madly in the seas of revolution I If a
monarchy be the symbol of strength and perpetuity,
whence the war of the Roses '1 Why lies the blood of
monarchs in France so often glutted the savage ven
geance of internal factious t Civil war indeed exists.
A war, on mar part, to put down an unnatural, unman,-
ful, matt icutal, hell-turn rebellion. Long plotted, it lets
been hatched at lust into w icked life, and seeks, with
headmen faleeheod, theft, robbery, arson, and murder
as its allies, to dissolve the blofal•bought Union, air '
Priceless heritage from our forefathers. The magnitude
of the contest, the tremendous consequences of disnomfl- I
time, can hardly be exaggerated. But who doubts the
result? Superiority of strength, nnmbers, and resources,.
and the invincible will of a ,mired North must triumph..
As certain as Truthand inetieeeit enthroned In Heaven,.
there ran be but one issue irons this conflict. Tho North
may have to spend pre Basely her treasmest, end her pa
triotic sons pour out their hfia blood like water, bottle•
Government must and wit? beentstatned. Else mr.eneare
auspicious. Hitherto thorebels, immensely inferior to this
loyalists in numbers and aggregate wealth, have far ex
celled us in energy and vigor. Wo were slow to riper°.
Mate the true elate of the case. Nor is it surprising.
True to the Union and the Constitution ourselves, he
reditarily and proudly loving the one anal religiously
venerating the other, we were loth to belleco• iti possible
that men were so loot to the glorious memmies.of the past
and the bright horse of the future, as to recklemiy and
diabolically conspire to overthrow boils Six Immired
thousand free citimms—volunteers—imirehallal on the
battle-field in defence of the Government, rift onA; an evi
dence of strength which the aorta has bevorhefure wit
nessed. Lot monarchists contemtleta the incredibly
abort thee in widish this 1111111011 SO Wlll.li he , hoon raised,
the discipline tow Web It has attained, tho spirt t of un
dying devotion which animates all, and Lam the less ms
of our Itepnblic's strength.
The noble State which honors 119 with seats in this
Mendel Itas been true to leer traditional renown Nero
than 100,000 Penns)lvitnittas are now in the field, dad
er they hate bad au opportunity of facing the fee,
their netlana 110 N 0 Fllfle u them es inert MI in spirit as they
e tbolnintin' , (4l for elacipline. Of such gaitant spirits,
wady to die far their couldry% nag, Pen.mylvAilta may
well be mond. We know that their mama; and deeds
will illustrate the brightest records of this unlaappy war,
and that they will never desert the poet of duty, until
victory wreathe its laurels around their inven t and tho
restored bond of union shall be--
4, Unbroken as the sacred chain of nature
That binds the jarring elements in peace."
The present session will doubtless be one of great im
portance. Whatever public affairs may demand our at
tention (it is needless for me to surmise what they may
be), it becomes us to lift ourselves above all personal
and party interests, and to edt in that grave, dispassion
ate, and dignified manner, which should ever character
ire a legislative body. From my knowledge of the Be.
nate, I confidently anticipate that the peculiar duties of
my position will be rendered light and easy, by your cor
dial co-operation in the maintenance of strict order and
The careful observance of parliamentary rules. Again I
thank you, Senators, for the honor SOU have conferred
upon ma, and doubt not that mutual prude-ace and pa
tience will enhble us to transact the business of the ses
sion pleasantly to ourselves and to the welfare dour con
s tituen ts.
You will be good enough to indicate a Senator to admi
nister the usual oath.
The new Senators were then either sworn or affirmed,
and the Besets proceeded to the transaction or other busi
ness necessary to the organization.
THE CITY.
(FOE ADDITIONAL CITY NEWS, SEE FOURTH PAGE.]
THE POLICE AND FIRE-ALARM TL7,EGEAPTI.—
The annual report of the Police and Fire-alarm
Telegraph has just been completed. The report
shows a vast amount of labor and care, and was
compiled by Operator William Heins, who, on ac
count of his intelligence, and being a most excellent
penman, is each year detailed for this arduous task.
We make the following extracts, showing the work
ings of the telegraph for the last year n which we
compare with the precious report:
Total messages
Missing persons
Lost children
Coroner notified '
Descriptions of new counterfeits
Officers summoned to Grand Jury,
Courts, he 982 1,533
Descriptions of stolen property 1,577 1,909
Stray animals recovered 816 437
Vehicles recovered 233 140
.4178-DIVI.g(AN.
51,081 47,659
1,088 896
2,112 2,672
447 339
.512 301
Missing males
females_ ,
Lost ebildrea—Boys
Girls....
Stray animate—Horses .
ii Cattle.
Mules.
Vehicles—Wagons
" Certs
" Drays
". Sleigh. _..
From the. above we see that there were 3,422
more messages transmitted over the wires last year
than the previous year. It is asignificant feet that
the business of this office has increased each year—
hence the great necessity for increased aocommo- -
dations. The new office is now nearly ready for
occupancy, and has been fitted up in fine style at a
very trifling cost to the city. Neat to the passage
of the loan bill the providing of a new and larger
office for the Police Telegraph was one of the most
important acts of CouncilN.
Of the whole number of messages transmitted
during the last year, only 8,456, or about one-sixth,
have beenalassified as above. The rest are placed
under the general head of miscellaneous in the re•
port, no further divisions being considered neoes
sary. They consist largely of descriptions of lost
children and missing persons—orders from the Chief
of Police for the concentration of a force to prevent
rioting and disorder ; descriptions of criminals, of
all grades, with orders for their arrest; accounts of
murders, fires, and casualities of all kinds, he.,
&c.; besides a large number of private police de
spatches. The following table will show the rata
ber of fires during each month of 1861. .
months. Dell rung. Not 19111 . g. G. Al'm.
January 10 26 1
February 5 10 ..
March 21 • •
April 5 12 ..
Nay .„I2 14 :f
Jung 0 .-
-..1 .. '
Zbly23 ..
Augu5t..,.; ....."4"•• 1.45 10
Septern', ) , - 10 11 -
( 2 - order 11 7 1
November 12 6
f
1 December' 7 13 • . -
110 183
False alarms, nine
In the First district there were 54 fires; Second
district, 53 ; Third district, 49 ; Fourth distriet, 105;
.Fifth district, 8 ; Sixth district, 14 ; Seventh dis
trict, 3—making a total of 291 fires during the past
year. some of these were very trifling.
ANOTHER ALARM. Yesterday morning,
about three o'clock, the fire in Fourth street, above
Chestnut, broke out a second time. The comics
on Mr. Lewis' store, No. 45, was of wood supported
by iron brackets. At the time of the fire on Mon
day evening it burned very stubbornly, and the fire
men bad great diffioulty in suppressing the flames.
Some of the embers smouldered all night, and to
wards morning broke out afresh. An alarm was
promptly sounded by the State House, and the fire
department was soon upon the ground. After about
an hour's labor the flames were most effectually ex
tinguished. No further damage was done.
PHILADELPHIA AND ERIE RAILROAD.—The
lease of this road to the Pennsylvania Railroad
Cowany has been signed. Our readers are already
familiar with the terms of the agreement. The
substance of it is that the Pennsylvania company
guaranties the payment of the principal and inte
rest of $5,000,000 of the bonds of the Philadelphia
and Erie company.
AN OWNER WANTED.—The following articles
are now at the Central Police Station, Fifth and
Chestnut street, awaiting the rightful claimant.
They are supposed to have been stolen: One copy
Moore's Works, bound in calf, Crissy, 1841; 25
volume Shalsspeare, Russia binding. Dearborn's
edition, New York, 1686; one blaok-silk drug.
PREVALENCE OF SMALL-POx•--We are in
formed by Mr. John P Arrison, the efficient and
zealous agent of the Homo Missionary moiety, that
numerous cases of small-pox have lately been
brought tohis notice. He has not been informed,
however, of any of the cases having proved fatal.
The victims of attack have, in the majority of
cases, been children. The disease is said to have
exhibited itself in a family residing in the vicinity
of Front and Christian streets.
FESTIVAL Is AID OF THE VOLVVITEIt RE
FRESHMENT Satootts. This evening, January
Sth, the anniversary of the battle of New Orleans,
the patriotic ladies of Philadelphia, of all de
nominations, intend giving a grand festival at
Sansom-street Hall. Supper will be on the table at
7 o'clock; after which a number of patriotic ad
dresses will be delivered. Ea•tiovernor Pollock
will preside, and speeches will be delivered by
Revs. Brisbane, Brainerd, Hatter, Smiley, Col. J.
W. Forney, and others As the profits are to be
applied to the Volunteer Refreshment Saloons, it is
hoped that the festival will be libdrally patronized.
Tickets to be had at the door.
Tut: following. is the
for the Port of Philadelp]
December 28tb, 1861 :
B,lhhels.
312,2'27. d.
673,917 Ma lt,
356,941 Buckwheat.
35,986 Beaus
23,682 pelt ......
ount of Grain measured
a, for the quarter ending
Corn..
Wheat
Oats ..
11 e ..
Barley
[For The Press.)
When Napoleon (at that time First Consul) heard
of the death of Washington he said " The groat
light of the world has gone oat." In his hand, in
the following order of the day, he thus announced
the decease of the "Father of his Country " to the
Consular Guard and to the armies of France:
"Washington is dead This great man fought
against tyranny ; he established the liberty of his
country. His memory Last always be dear to the
French people, as well as to all the free of both
worlds, and eslecially to the Trench soldiers, who,
like him and his American troops, fight in defence
of liberty and equality. Therefore, the First Con
sul has ordered that, for the apace of ten days,
crepe shall bo hung on all the colons end standards
of the Republic."
Nowhere in Europe was such a public revg,ni
tion of the death of Washington made as recorded
The man who is now the ruling and guiding
spirit of the great French people is known, when
very young, to have studied carefully the career
and political principles of the Emperor, his uncle.
'While in Switzerland, in 1831., he entered as a vo
lunteer in.the military school of:Thins,. having pre
viously devoted himself with.zenh and earnestness
to military affairs. In a work. which he published
on artillery, he displayed such.profiefeacy that the
Canton of Berne eonferred'on him the elMMissiOn
of a captain in the army. rn his reply to the Vico
President, he said, lem proud of being ranked
among the number of the defenders of &State where
the sovereignty of the people is recognized as the
basis ot, the Constitution.! and whore every °Risen
is ready to lay down his life for the-liberty and in
dependence of his country."
Can the holder and advooato of molt principles
as these ever ally himself to a jealous. arieterracy,
for the purpose of crushing a free People- in their
supposed hour of weakness?' Or can the vindicator
of the principles of him who considered. our Wash
ington "the great light of the world;" over iden
tify himself with the despicable, underhand inter
medding of European despots in their miserable at
tempts to hinder the rise and onward progress of
our glorious instituCons?
F.ngland must look further for-an ally in her un
holy schemes, and show a better- C4511y dell with
this country than she now has. (since the.settlement
of the Trent diffieulty,) if she espectatoanaintain
her amicable relations with her- powerail neighbor
" over the way." - G. W. P.
S, 1882
To TOE Eo:rer of TAE POESS.--Dear Sir:—
During the ear of 181f.t, a. eonslltiorable revenue
was derived by putting a stamp tax ou all promis
sory notes. Would it not be welt for some such
measure as :his to be adopted now ?' The burden
would themfall on those) able ta.bear it.
ciiRREHT mercantile adviece from Luna,
fully support the aalicipationspreVimsly exprogsedt
that the-harvest tleie.ycar.,both io Bengal anit the,
northwest provinces, will be the inest knowrofpr, te
very :ung periods. This pros-pee-I, coupled withAlus t
rise in cotton, ha& tweeted, general confidence,
Iu the apace of. forty years Mexico hes, luta so
fewer than gliy•five Zfflerent governments
MAJOR IlretotAzox, who proceeded t% "'chin for
the purpose of aszertainiv' g the fate of leis son,
Captain Reabazon, who was acid to be 'I/caudated by
the Chinon. during the last eampaign,,baareturned
borne. We fear that his journey has. proved, ow
far as his iretteediale object is oci , ncerned, quitrw
fruitlerea.
IwrrEns from Chofoo, in CAI-Po., state no, two
Aniertenn Inissionariee, Messi,-•;, Po or nod Hanes,
bare beep oruelly put to &dab. bS thn rehAs, white
they were trying to niii, Kir
expeotzd flout Tien-tArl. ilitn3s loc k = the.).
1861. 1860
907 780
181 116
2,003 1,668
1,109 1,004
481 -
300 -
Bushels.
. 523
913
242
.. 414
1,194