THE 'PRESS, PUBLISHED DAILY <SUNDAYS EXCEPTED.) BY JOHN W. FORNEY. opnoz, No. 111 SOUTH FOURTH STREET, THE DAILY PRESS, EIGHTEEN 'CENTS PER. WEEK, payable to the Carrier. Mailed to Subscribers out of the City at Stony DOLLARA I'ER ANNUM, POOR DOLLARS FOR Six MONTHS, I . Wo DOL LARS FOR THREE MONTHS — IRTRI iably Ia advance for the time ordered. Afar-Advertisements inserted at the emit rates. Stir. Ilues constitute a square. THE TRI-WEEKLY PRESS, Matlea to Subscribers out of the City at FOUR DOLLARS :PER asNopir, io Advance. • GENTS' FURNISHING (:( A IDS. 606. ARCH STREET. 606. lall~i i:►►;j l►) it' "4 Full Asaortment of GENTS' FURNISHING GOODS, IN GREAT . VARIETY GCTERIOR QUALITY, /AD AT MODERATE PRICE= O. A. .IIOFFMANN, Hueccosor to W. W. KNIGHT. 000 ARCH STREET. mi. JairMth am THE FINE SHIRT EMPORIUM, Vol. 1 AND 3 NORTH SIXTH STRUT. JOHN C. ARRISON. (FORMERLY J. BURR MOORE.) IMPORTER AND MANUFACTURER OF IGENTLEMEN'S FURNISHING GOODS IN GREAT VARIETY AND AT MODERATE PRICES. N. B.—Particular attention given to the making of,Shlrte, , Collars, Drawers, &e VINE SHIRT MANUFACTORY. The aubacriber would Invito attention to hie IMPROVED OUT OF SHIRTS, 'Which be makes a specialty in his business. Ala°, con .gitant,ly receiving, NOVELTIES FOR GENTLEMEN'S WEAR. J. W. SCOTT, GENTLEMEN'S FURNISHING STORE, ffo. 814 ORRSTNST STREET, Four doors bviow the ContinentaL ARMY CIOTIIIING, Ace. A. OPPENLIEIMER, • 1131. 011IIRCH Alley, Phll'4Blolls. CONTRACTOR AND MANINAZToIusit OF ARMY CLOTHING Of Every Description. ALSO, HAVERSACKS, PONCHOS, CAMP BLANKETS, KNAPSACKS, and TICKING FOR HOSPITALS, MATIRIA.L BOUGHT POE CONTRACTORS. Allgood! made will be guarantied regulation In else. P B. Orders of any else filled with &match. la 7 3m PAPER HANGINGS. ADELPH I.A: PAPER HANGINGS. ROWELL & BOURKE, CORNER OF FOU.RTH AND MARKET STREETS, PAPER HANGINGS AND WINDOW CURTAIN PAPERS, •Offer to the Trade a LAME AND ELEGANT ASSORT SIENT OF GOODS, from the cheapest Brown Stock to the Finest Decorations. 'N. E. COIL FOURTH AND MARKET STREETS. N. B.—Solid Oren, Blue, and Buff WINDOW PA TERS of every grade. ' fel3-2m SEWING MACHINES. STILL THERE! AT THE OLD STAND, 528 CHESTNUT STREET, second floor, opposite Jityne'a Hall, WHEELER & WILSON SEWING MACHINES.. `The understoed has not removed, but id ready at his Old Office to supply customers, at the lowest prices, with Cory style and quality of WHEELER & WILSON SEWING MACHINES. Machines to hire t also, with tirst-slasa operators, to private families and hotels, by the day, Machine stitching done &ration notice, in any quantity. Machines repaired and operators taught. de264m HENRY COY. 1-*JINGER'S SEWING MACHINES, Pz,r Family Sawing and Manufacturing Parpoir 810 CHESTNUT STREET. I E WILCOX & GIBBS ?MOW SEWING JKAOHINES Jae been greatly improved. making it ' ENTIRELY NOISELESS, IA with Self-adjusting Remmers, are now reedy for wile y FAIRBANKS & EWING, 027-if 718 ORESTNTIT Street. GAR FIXTURES, &c: i n ARCH STREET. C. A. VANKIRK & 00. Iif.S.BI77ACTURZEtS OP CHANDELIERS AND OTHER GAS FIXTURES. Slam, Breach Bronze Fignree and Ornaments, Porcelain d }Sea Shades, and a variety of . . FANCY GOODS • WHOLESALE AND RETAIL, Moue call and examine goods. :!.. deISIP CLOTHESWRINGERS. E GREAT CLOTHES WRINGER. "PUTNAM SELF-ADJUSTING CLOTHES WRINGER" Is warrantee' to be enperior to any other In nee. 'EBY FAMILY SHOULD POSSESS A CLOTHES WRINGER. BROAIII3B, filet. It Is a relief to the hardest part of washing-OW, .14. It enables the washing to be done in one-third lee: It asses clothes from the Injury always given to] wteti4lV A l l t helps to wash the clothes as well as dry them. BELIEVE IT ADVISABLE TO PROOIIEZ ONE OF TILLS KIND, il3Wt. The rolls being of vulcanised robber, will atir hot and cold water, and will neither break nor tear r buttons. 61100/ID. The frame being of Iron, thoroughly gal attired, all danger from rust is removed, and the lie lily to shrink, swell, split, dm, so unavoidable in ooden machines, iN prevented. Klan. The spiral springs over the rolls render this ma. tfue self-adjusting, so that email and large articles, u :11 as articled uneven in thickness. are certain to re• lye uniform pressure, you'll'. The patent fastening by which the machine tightened to the tub, we believe to be superior in elm. icily and efficiency to any yet offered. I" 11 , 111. It will tit any tub, round or square, from one- Of to one-and-s-quarter inches in thickness, without Le least alteration, RETAIL PRICE: N 0.1,110.00 No. 2, 90.00. Agents wanted In every county. Reliable and energetic men will be liberally deal or Bale at the TOODENWARE ESTABLISHMENT" A.H. FRANCISCUS, No. 433 MARKET St. and No. 5 North s NIFTH al3-tutbstmhB Wbolesale agent for PenneYlvinlia DRUGS AND 01113DUCAILS. °BERT SHOEMA.KER & CO., xedhasat Com' Youth and BACK Streets, PHILADELPHIA, 1:101,ESAIX DRUGGISTS, IMPORTERS AND . DIALERS YORBION AND DOMESTIC NDOW AND PLATE GLASS ANIIPICTITAIMB OP -WRITE LEAD AND ZINO PAINTS, PUTTY. km AIMINWS FOR rill CIELBERLTED 'FRENCH ZINO PAINTS eaters and aonommers aupplted at nil atn VW LOW MOSS POE OAEOI CARPETS AND OIL CIAYIES. .I,EN ECHO MILLS, M'OALLUM & CO., , AOTDRERS, IMPORTERS, ADD DEALERS. GOD CHESTNUT STREET, (Opposite Independence Hall.) CARPETINGS, OIL CLOTHS. &o 'e have now on hand an extensive stock of CARPET- 8, of our own and other makes, to which we call .ttention of cash and short-time buyers. felt-3m CARD.—THE SUBSCRIBER RAV ING made arrangements with Messrs. REEVE L. iGHT & 80N will be found at their Now store, No. CHESTNUT Street, above EIGHTH street, North ready to watt on his old friends and customers, on (GAY, the 23d inst., with a new and superior stock ivory description or CARPETING and BEDDING,' oh will be offered at the lowest casrices. A call 3peotfnily solicited. ROBERT B. WALKER. 807 CHESTNUT Street Above ZIORTH Street, North side. WILLIAMSVILLES, WAMSUTTAS, York Premiums. Porostdales, Edward Barrie, Bay Mill, and Other Food makes Shirtino. 10-1 Utica., WalNEtham, andsepperell Meetings. FI W At nearly old prices. Cheap Damask Cloths, Power-Loom Linens. Good Napkins, Fine ALPACASDoyIies. BLACK Fine Colored Alpacas, Prints, Delaines, Cheap Reps. All-wool Reps at Coat. Balmorals—Good Skirts, fall size, $5. Closing out Winter Cloaks and Shawls. Closing out Boys' Winter Clothing COOPER ar CONARD, Jd4.tf 8. &' corner NINTH and NAMUR° Streets. PYRE Sc LANDELL, FOURTH AND •A-di ARCH, la.ve a fine atook of GOODS FOS 'FAMILY CUSTOM. Good Large Blankets. Good Linen Shootings. Good Muslin by the_plece. Good Unehrinking Flannels. • Good Fast Colored. Prints. Good Table Linen and Towels. Good Quality Black Silka. Good Assortment Colored Saks. • Jal CRIB AND CRADLE BLANKETS. Large Crib Blankets. • 4 Pine Cradle Blankets. , • • ETRIt & LANDELL. FOURTH and ARC VIABROIDERIES - EMBROIDERIES tl -■-• —French Needle-worked Bands, Edgings, Insert- Inge, HMO's, Collars, Setts, Skirts, ; a large assort ment of very choice goods at low prices. SHEPPA.RD, TAN HARLINGEN, & ARRISON. fe94wif . 1008 CHESTNUT Street. PRINPED LINENSI . PRINTED "I.I2IENSI !At a small advance en 'the old prices, a large assortment of Printed Linens, 1n new and desira ble patterns, suitable for children's wear, dresses, &o. SHEPPARD, VAN HARLINGEN, & ARRISON, fe9-Swif 1008 CHESTNUT Street. TIOMESTIO MUSLIN'S, SHEETIN GS, he.—All of the desirable makes for sale,. at the lowest cash prices. SHEPPARD, VAN HARLINOEN & ARRISON, fe9-Swif 100 S CHESTNUT Street. PAINTINGS, ENGRAVINGS, ' JAMES S. EARLE . 8; SON, IMPORTERS AND MANIIPACTURBILS 01 OIL PAINTINGS, • ENORAVENOS, PORTRAIT, • PIOTHRB, sad PHOTOGRAPH FRAMs. PHOTOGRAPH ALBUMS. UTUSITE LOOKING GLASS WAREHOOKS AN]) GALLERY OF PAINTINGS. dell-tf SILO CHESTNUT Street, Philadelphia. AOENOY FOR • THE .• SALE OF UNITED STATES TAX STAMPS, No. 57 South THIRD Street; fret dont:above Chestnut A full supply of all kinds of TAX STAMPS constantly on band, and for gale in Quantities to emit. A liberal discount allowed on amounts of 960 and up wards. Orders by Nall promptly attended to. Office Boors frcim 9 A.3L to .1". M. JACOB E. RIDGWAY, . de9-tje9 No. 57 South THIRD Street. Annevvvvvvvvy.ww.neyv, C A •II T . -. 1 •co ...N. FAIRBANKS' SCALES Has induced the makers of Imperfect balances to offer them as " FAIRBANKS' SCALES," 111111 parchment bays thereby, in many Instances, been subjected to fraud and Imposition. Fairbanks' Scales are manufactured only by the original inventors, kT. FAIRBANKS dr CO., and are adapted to every branch of the bualneee, whore a wriest and durable Scales is desired, • - :-BILLIARD TABLES, and hums now on hand a' full snuely finished with the MOORS & CAMPION'S IMPROVD ousuroNs, which ere pronounced by all who have need them to be nape• dor to all others, For the quality and finish of these Tables the mann. Scturere refer to their numerous patrons throughout the Union. who are familiar with the 'bar:toter of their work. annum F. : • L G. ZINC AllWir. ANDVOILET MIRRORS, The but in the world for finish and durability. B. M. S. Tbo.beat brand Silk Finished VELVET RIBBONS. Bole Agent, BENJAMIN M. SMITE. 155 DUANE Street, near West Broadway, feB-3m New York. low DR FINE, PRACTICAL DEN -IST for the last twenty years, 219 VINE St.., below ThLrd, Inserts the most beautiful TE E TH of teut age, mounted on fine Gold, Platina, Silver, Vulcanite, CO. ralite, Amber, &c., at Prices, for neat and substantial Wm*. more reasonable than any dentist in this city or State. Teeth pinged to last for life. Artificial Teeth ro paired to suit. No pain in extracting. No charg es no , til masted all is right. Reference.best famines. jant-nat GERMANTOWN, PA. 625 COLDTHORP &' CO., 62,5 (Late of 16 North. Fourth street,/ Manufacturers of Tassels, Cords, Gimps, Fringes, Curtain Loops,Centre Tassels, Dress Trimmings, Blind Trimmings.. Tapes, Braids, Neck-ties, Military Trimmings. etc. fe3 , lm No. 625 MARICBT Street. Philadelphia. HIGHLY IMPORTANT TO THE LADIES. - - ' GEORGE'S PATENT HAIR-CRIMPER. We take pleasure in informing our numerous friends in Philadelphia that we are now prepared to furnish, immediately, this indispensable article to ovary lady's toilet, either wholesale or retail. On account of the groat rush for the Crimper we have been unable to supply the great demand until now. The single Crimp er, with full clirectlone, will be forwarded to any ad dress free, on receipt of ono dollar and twouty-ftve cents! Wo furnish the Crimper at a liberal discount to the trade. Any lady can wave her own hair beautifully In five minutes. . . Wo have also a large Rapply of the "Blatant Improved Bloat EIT M invite IC Sewing aChinos," for which We orders. ddress H. 0. SUPLEE, • fel9-6t* 537 BROADWAY, NEW YORK. TEA 0 ELEI3II4TED . G U M• M.A.'S T I C Az excellent substitute for Tobacco. Purities the breath, Whitens the teeth, and delightful forohewing. • 'Per sale by all Druggists and Confectioners - Trade supplied by 0. H. BRONSON, Manufacturer's Agent. MUM( 12,5 WALNUT Street, .:.; mmi I, _ .• .• c . N-‹‘,\\ \ ,! /// / '. • , . . 1., ,' . -A1t r7 41,1 -. , ,•'„ilijii/lr' ' • : a f , (....... / ---;--- ,1- ~---- 4 . . ... .1. 4 4- . .i4 V & (4 , \-; , , _, - : , ?-5::t• ''• ' I. ' -:-'-'' :1;i1111 4) - ' dairI1 , 1 1 1- . ' ' ' *fh < .... ,7' . ..v06 I - - - `• ''''' • - •*-N.. ___ _,... . ... _ - , --..-.....,.. 46.. . .-• -'. 1 ---;. 1 + • VOL. 6.-NO. 174. RETAIL DRY GOODS. CLOSING OUT. WINTER STOCK AT AND UNDER COST PRICES.— Saxony Plaids and Poll De Chevron, at 20 eta. Best American Detainee, at 25 eta. All imported Drees Goods at cost prices. These goods are all really cheaper than Calicoes. Plain Silks, rich colors. Small-Sgured Corded Silks, gelid colors. Pisin and figured Black Silks. Very heavy Nro Grain Black Silks. . Rich styles Fancy Silks. All of thesegoods are at last fall's prices. Pretty sty iik% Fancy Silks, 68, 66, 75 eta. • Plain Black Alpacas. Single and double-width Black All-wool Delalnee. Plain Black Matinees, Cashmeres, and Reps. All at last fall's prices. English. Merrimac, Cirmbeco, Sprague, and all the bent makes of Prints lu the market. Pillow Case, Sheeting, and Shirting Muslims, Wil liamsville and other approved makes. 0-8 Waltham and Pocasset, 5-4 Layman, unbleached, all at lees than the agent's eve El. STEEL & SON, Noe. 713 end 715 Nortb TENTH Kreet 102 OHESTIOT SIREEt E. M. NEEDLES. No. 1024 CHESTNUT STREET, Asks the BEECIAL ATTENTION of the Ladles to hie LARGE STOCK of • WHITE GOODS, LACES, EMBROIDERIES, HANDKERCHIEFS, Ste. • • A greater part of his goods have been parehased previous to the RETAI L EDEA ADVANCE, and now being at LESS than whole sale prices. He has JUST OPENED: • 100 dozen broad Hemstitched Edicts., at 30e., and upwards. • SOO dozen carded-bordered all-Linen Hdkrs., at ISe., worth Id cents. . 60 p ieces plain. bu f f, and white Pique. fur Cbildrezee wear. 20 pieces printed and flg'd Piqué, for Children's wear. NOVELTIES IN LADIES' BOWS. Emb'd Mualin, lace trimmed, Am.. received Ovary morning, from 50c. to $5. 1024 CRESTNITT STREET. SPLENDID STOCK ON HAND. All the best makes of Calicoes. All the beet makes of Keeling. All the beet makes of Li uene. All the beet makes of Sheetings, All the best make a of Napkins. Together with Towels, Crash, Diaper Hackaback, Bird ye, Burlap, &c. &c. White Cambric and Jaconet, till line. Nainsooks and Plaid Muslims, fall line. Winter Hoods closing out. Shawls, Plerinoes, closing out, Balmoral Skirts, all prices. Silk and Linen Ildkts, nice assort - Merit. At JOHN STOKES', 7021 ARCH Street. EDWIN HALL & BRO., 146 South SECOND Street, Have reduced the Priceltlof Fanny Silks, Rich Printed Dress Goode, "Choice Shades of hierinoes. Beautiful Colors of Reps or Poplins, Alt-Wool De Lainee, AR kinds of dark dram goods reduced. Also, • Fine Long Brooke Shawls, Open Centre Long Cashmere Shawls. Rich new styles of Blanket Shawls. 4-4 Lyons Silk velvets. pure Silk. TOY GOODS FOR WINTER. Bap. Poplins, French Merinos, eoored Mousseline., Fonlt De Sole*, Foulard Silks. Blanket Shawl., Balmoral Skirt., Black Silk., Fancy Bilks, Black Bombazines, Worsted Plaids, Cheap Delainee, French Chlntze.s, Shirting Fianna% Brooke Shatrpt, Fino Blankets, Crib Blankets. SHABPLESS BROTHERS, CHESTNUT and EIGHTH Streets. LOOKING GLASSES. Mammas IN 11. S. INTERNAL REVENUE. FAIRBANKS' SCALES. The weli.earned reputation of FAIRBANKS & EWING, • General Agents, ADIS& MASONIC RAIL 715 CHESTNUT ST. CABINET. FURNITURE. CA_BINET FURNITURE AND : :BTIA. LIARD TABLES. ' • • MOORE & CAMPION, No. 261 South SECOND Street, In connection with their ostensive Cabinet flruthusaa,ll, Ow Manufacturing a 'superior article of m EVANS & WATSON'S _ SALAMANDER SAE/ STORE. 16 BOOTH FOURTH STREIT.. PHILADELPHIA, PA. A large variety or FIRE-PROOF SAFES always as hand. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1803 INAUGURATION OF THE NEW POST OFFICE. INTERESTING CEREMONIES. .Banquet . f it the Crirawd. I-Xonse. patriotic Speeches of Hon. Montgomery Blair, Hon. Judge Usher, Governor Curtin, Mayor Henry, RIM others. Yesterday afternoon, the new post office, on Chest nut Wed, was inaugurated with appropriate cere monies.. At 2 o'clock, the building was opened to invited guests, and en hour was spent in the inspec tion of its various departments. Among those pre tent were quite a number of ladies. BirgitWe Band enlivened the occasion with stirring music, before and after the ceremonies of the dedication. Orithe platfoim, in the centre of the ground floor, were present the distinguished guests of the occasion— Hon. Dr. Blair, Postmaster General; Gov. Curtin, Itla3 or Henry, and others. Ilayor Henry opened the exercises by calling Mr. A. G. Cattell to preSidc. • Mr. Oattell expressed his gratitude for the com pliment in a short address, and then introduced Mr. 0. A. Walborn, the postmaster. Mr. Walborn said that the object of the present gathering was to inaugurate this building and dedi cate it to the postal service of the country. It was now about to be handed over to the Postmaster General. He was present for the purpose of re ceiving it. After that formality was concluded, the ceremonies would end by raising above the post office the emblem of our nationality. Mr. Blair was received with applause. He spoke as follows : GENTLEMEN AND CITIZ errs OF PHILADVILPFITA.: I feel highly honored in being requested, on the part of the citizens of Philadelphia and the Corn Exchange Association, to be present on this occasion.. The erection of such a building as this is fitly a subject of congratulation for the citizens of this great city. It affords great accommodations as compared with the old post office, and the improvements strike the eye everywhere ; although I may say that even this building, large as it is, with the endless details which are seen here for the public accommodation, will be in a few years just as cramped and as insuf ficient for the uses of the city as the one now about to be vacated. I see, however, that you are dis posed to be satisfied. You know that we are doing the best we can. Be content for the present, with this ; that is all we ask. By and by, I know that this great Government which was instituted by the people and for the people, will yet furnish you with everything you may want and require. • . I think that you have another cause for congratu lation. The money expended here has been well ex pended. The public has got all that has been ex pended for it. This has been, in every sense, a pub lic building. Allow me to say, that it is not to me that the honor of erecting this building belongs. I disclaim all share in having erected it. You are in debted for it to your own indefatigable postmaster, and to Mr. Theo. Adams, under whose superintend ence this work has been done. I have examined it in detail, and believe that it answers the necessities of this intelligent and growidg city.' I come to ao cept it in the name of - the Post-office Department. Thanking you for the honor you have done me, I beg leave to make my bow. At the conclusion of Mr. Blair's address, Mr. A. G. Cattell said : • Sir: This is a proud day for Philadelphia. For many years the people of this city have been urg ing upon the Government that their post office ac commodations were not commensurate- with the magnitude of the postal service of our city. Title fact has been strongly pressed on successive adminis trations, but the realization of our hopes and wishes has been delayed until the present hour. The people of Philadelphia fully recognize that they are indebted to you, sir, mainly for this splen did edifice with all its comforts and conveniences, and its perfect adaptation to the wants of the branch of the Government service, in which we are all so much interested, and over which you pre side with such distinguished ability. As this beautiful building meets every want of the present, and as you have just now given us assu rances that when the growth of our city ahall re quire still greater accommodations we shall have them, I am sure I speak the sentiments of this large assembly and of our citizens generally, in wishing that you may continue Postmaster General for twenty years to come. [Laughter and applause.] You have given us a post office which is an orna ment to our city, equal it not superior to any in our widely extended country, and on behalf of the com mittee charged with the arrangements for this inau guration, and of the citizens of Philadelphia gene rally, I tender to you their grateful sense of the im hortant service you have rendered them, and their eartfelt wishes for your health and prosperity. The band then struck up a patriotic air, and the company proceeded to the roof of the building, wheie the Postmaster General raised a large Rag, amid the shouts of the assembled multitude in the streets. VISIT TO THE UNION LEAGUE ROOMS. After the exercises at the post office buildings had been concluded, the committee of arrangements, accompanied by the distinguished guests, repaired to the Girard House. After a few moments' rest the entire party, in accordance with a previous in vitation, visited the Union League Rooms. Here they were warmly received by the various members of the League, and a pleasant interchange of cour tesies succeeded. The magnificent pictures, .orna ments, furniture, and tapestry, were greatly. ad mired and complimented. The objects of the asso ciation, as well as the manner in which it is con ducted, received the highest encomiums of the visi tors. After an hour had been employed in thus in specting the League, the committee and their guests went to the Girard House to prepare for the eve ning's banquet. THE BANQUET AT THE GIRARD HOUSE. According to previous arrangement, the distin guished guests of the post-office inauguration next repaired to the Girard House in company with the committee of citizens appointed to receive them. Here, at about 6 o'clock, they sat down to an elegant dinner in the main dining-room of the hotel. Two tables were ranged lengthwise the room, accommoda ting over one hundred gentlemen. It is proper to add that the dinner was given principally under the auspi et.s of the Corn Exchange Association, than which our city can boast of no more patriotic or public-spirited organization. The hall was profusely ornamented with American flags, stretched along the entire walls. A splendid picture of Washington, and one of Gen. Scott, adorned with evergreen, held conspicu ous places above the tables. It is needless to say, that the substantial part of the banquet was in keeping with the occasion. At the head table, which faced the other two, sat the distinguished guests of the evening. Mayor Henry occupied the chair, and discharged its duties with that quiet dignity and urbanity which always characterize his Honor. The cloth being removed, the intellectual part of the evening's entertainment commenced. Mr. Henry called the assemblage to order, and spoke 48 follows : SPEECH OF MAYOR HENRY PELLOW•OITIZENS AND GENTLEMEN: The com pletion of a new edifice in the city of Philadelphia, destined for the postal service, which has been long desired and greatly needed for the accommodation of its citizens, affords just cause for congratulation, and we have assembled this evening under these festal circumstances to testify our appreciation of the favor done us by the Federal Government, in providing such means of accommodation, and likewise the energy, perseverance, and the sound judgment which have been displayed in its attain ment. • We have also to extend a welcome to the distinguished gentlemen belonging to the Federal and State Governments, and other citizens who have honored us by their presence on this occasion. I do . not propose to expatiate at this time upon the adaptation 'of the building which has been provided by the Government for our accommodation. Most of us have had an oppor tunity . during the day, through the courtesy of those to whom, its charge has been entrusted, to see for ourselves that it will afford all the facili ties which, at the present time, may be needed for our city. I may say frankly, as a -Philadelphian, that, in my opinion, the Federal Government ought to have been more liberal than it has been. [Ap. plause.] Ido not think that its favors have been commensurate with the position which Philadelphia occupies in the rank of communities in this Union. [Applause.] But, then, gentlemen,' when I re flect that when this • enterprise was commenced the Government felt that it had need of all its resources for an . enterprise infinitely more important to Philadelphia [applause] and whilst, as Philadelphians, we may regret the stinted manner in which the Government has ex tended its favors to Philadelphia, we will never re:- gret it, if the enterprise to whi ch I allude is con summated, as all hope it wilt be. . [Applause.] Per mit me to say that about the same time, or rather earlier in the commencement of this en tellable, the. Federal Government undertook an other enterprise, one which has no reference to local interests, and one whose magnitude, if not beyond all conception, is certainly beyond all adequate expression. It must be said, perhaps with wonder, that in the prosecution of that enterprise there have . been those who have looked askance at the progress it has made. There have been those who have been found to sneer at the materials used, and at the resources called upon. There may be those, perhaps, who may regret to see the consum mation of that enterprise, but it-requires no pro phetic voice to say. that just- as, certainly ias our national emblem was thrown over our new post office to-day, just so certainly, with God , s blessing, will the efforts of the Government to crush' the re bellion meet- wills a successful consummation. [Applause.] And traitors will yet be forced to yield a tribute to the might and majesty of our Government. [Renewed applause.] In the prosecution of the pleasing duty assigned to me, by the gentlemen who have provided the enter tainment, I. take pleasure in proposing to you the first toast of the evening—one which will commend itself to every loyal heart—The President of the United States. A loyal people will sustain him in every effbrt to wo rk out the salvation of our coun try. [Applause.] I will call upon Hon Judge Usher, Secretary of the Interior, to answer. Mr. 'Wilier was greeted with loud applause, and spoke as follows :• SPEECH OF HON. JUDGE USHER. Me. PnisleraT It is now two years since the distinguished citizen, whose health you have just proposed, while passing through this city to the capital, to assume the duties of the Chief Magistrate of the nation, was, by its worthy Mayor, as the ap pointed representative of 600,000 people, ardent and devoted to the Union, tendered its hospitalities. The memories of the past having been alluded to, his mind naturally recurred:to independence Hall, its hallowed productions—the Declaration of Inde pendence and the Constitution of the United States —dear to every American heart. And here, in the presence of the authorities of this city, and its mul titudes of loyal people, he solemnly, assured them that he would, as Chief Magistrate, do nothing in consistent with the teachings of those sacred instru mente. Thedlialrected and disloyal of the nation, who had long contemplated and determined upon die union, actual war against the United against themselves—a crime u n o n , were States—in then factlev most monstrous and unnatural, because our system of government, our Constitution is of that character that all necessary and proper changes thereof may be made by the voice of tlts people, peacefully expressed. The Constitution—the supreme law of the land— the President was, in due time, sworn to protect and defend, which this causeless and armed rebel lion was then seeking to overthrow. In .the prosecution 4. the war for the suppression of 'that rebellion, has be violated the pledges he made here two years ago? 'No, gentle. men, I appeal to you, laying aside all the .animost ties of party. I appeal to .the_deliberate judgment of the whole nation, to declar whether, in its con science, it can be said that the Executive has wan tonly, or knowiugly, or otherwise, violated one jot PHILADELPHIA, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24. . 1863 or tittle of the teachinga of Independence Hall, or the Constitution of the United States. 1 beg gentlemen to reflect, that, whlle some have been free to denounce and accuse him of denial= practised only by the worst of tyrants, these same acta are declared to be legal, and warranted by the Constitution, by the duly conatituted law Officer of the Government; and that nowhere of the moat enlightened jurists of the land, of the bench and the bar, have voluntarily declared that, in their delibe rate judgment, the acts of the President are jus tifiable. AN yet, there is but a conflict of opinion. Is any one so confident in his own judgment—so infallible, that, as a good and lawful citizen, he cannot afford to defer to the properly constituted tribunal, where these grave questions must ultimately be deter mined/ NIUE t the nation be aroused and alarmed with the apprehension that its liberties are sapped and over thrown? Nay I not be permitted to Bay to these casuists, that the soldier in the field, and the gene / ous merchant who pours out his treasure as water for the support of the Government, are quite uncon scious of any violation of the Constitution, in the particular or which they complain.' 1 Am quite sure that their habitual respect for law will induce them to acquiesce in the decision of the highest tribunal in the land, though it be contrary to their cherished and confident opinions. Consider, gentlemen, the appalling difficulties with which the President has been surrounded— diMcultlea growing out of the social relations'of the people of opposing civilizations; embarrassed by the confirmed prejudices of years, such as never afflicted any nation upon earth.' They have been manfully met, and the danger resulting from them passed. While they existed, they were a fruitful source of constant discord. Now Mat they are ended by the proclamation, and the horrors by some an ticipated to ensue therefrom not having been rea lized, that disturbing subject may no more be thrown es an apple of discord among the loyal and hopeful to distract their councils and divert their energies; but all may be united, as it is devoutly to be hoped, in one common purpose—the preservation of the Go vernment and the restoration of its authority throughout all the length and breadth of the land. This will not be done, gentlemen, by continuing dis sensions among ourselves; seeking to cut off New England from the Union, or the establishment of a Northwestern Confederacy, independent of the At lantic States, as sonic have wickedly suggested. What sane man can contemplate such counsels without the deepest abasement and shame? Will Pennsylvania surrender her interest in the million of acres of sliver and gold ; of the mountains of other minerals of scarcely less value found in the territories beyond the proposed Northwestern Con federacy 1 Nay, more: will Pennsylvania ever,con sent to be separated from the Northwestern States, in every hamlet of which her adventurous sone are. to be found? And yet, a little further let us Consi der this subject and see what is due to our faith and the vindication of our honor. The pre sent Congress, with almost entire unanimity, called the army into the field. This was sanctioned by the people, and nearly a million of men have borne arms in defence of the country since the war began. The soldiers were promised their stipulated wages, and pensions to such as should be disabled. Pensions were also promised to the widows end orphans of those who might perish upon the battle-field in the defence of the Government. The entire nation is solemnly pledged to see that this law is executed, at whatever cost. The vicissitudes of the war have already entitled many thousands to this bounty. I do not envy the man who will, for fan instant, hesi tate to redeem hie pledges to these unfortunates.gin this regard, is it probable that these pledgeswill be more likely to be kept by continued dissensions among ourselves? What question of irritation end discord is there now before the people, loyal to the Constitution, that should divide their counsels? May I not be indulged in saying (I say it with all proper respect for gentlemen who seem to apprehend the subversion of the •Constitution,) that if all the people within the loyal States would unite with the President—syleldiug the same heartfelt devotion to the cause in which we are engaged—we should hear of no more alleged violations of the Constitution •, no more arrests,for the plain -reason thitt there would' be no more transgressors. • In conclusion, Mr. President, permit me to say that, since the organization of the Government, no Executive has 'been surrounded with such stupen dous difficulties as has Abraham Lincoln ; and im partial History shall declare that these never lived a man entrusted with authority who was more guile less ADII patriotic than he, whose aims and every Impulse were More for his country's welfare. Let us remember the words of the true patriot and renowned statesman, whose voice is now hushed in death, that in civil war there can be but twoparties, one for preserving the Government, the other for its destruction ; and let us also well remember, and take heed in time, that there is no other name un der heaven, by or through which this nation can be , saved, than that of Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States. Ni-. Usher sat down amid loud applause. Tudge Daher closed amid great applause. The Mayor then said : In the whole course of political. history there never was a doctrine so detrimental to the interests of this Government, and one so pro- ductive of the troubles of the present day as that of State rights. Yet it is wellto cherish and foster a reasonable pride and affection for our own imme diate institutions and our own immo,diate I therefore oiler to you, as the second toast of the evening: "The Stale of Pennsyitiairta—the backbone of the Union—strong, solid, and enduring. She is ever ready to vindicate the nation's rights In I will call upon our honored Governor to make a • reply to this toast. Governor Curtin arena mold' great. uppiausc,-and - Was greeted with threecheers: - &PEEWEE OF GOV. OURTIN. I respond to the toast in compliment to the State of Pennsylvania with great pleasure—with that pleasure which every one of her citizens ought to and does feel, whether in or out of her borders. We, who live here, have long been proud 'of our State. We have boasted of her free people, of her magnificent scenery; of ber vast mineral resources— chief of all, we have boasted of the loyalty of her people. We have felt that she is destined to be a great State in this thne•honored Confederation, and it only requirtd her sons in the field to show that traitors could not, with impunity; attempt to break down the Constitution which binds these States to gether in a great 'nation. When this rebelliop . mat threatened the destruction of our Government,' and the Constitution under which we have had so much glory, power, and individual happiness, Pennsylvania then responded with alacrity as she was summoned to do by the Government. She then knew no States' rights that were not con sistent with the integrity of the Union. First to answer the call of the Federal Government. she would be the last to give up this fight. We are in the heart of this great country, with lines by transit of travel passing over our borders North, South, East and West, with our material productions so necessary to the wealth and prosperity of all that surround us. Gentlemen, we cannot afibrd to be surrounded by enemies. [Applause.] Two hun dred thousand of our people have taken up arms for the defence of the Union. [Applause.] One hundred and forty•three thousand Pennsylvanians are now in the field. [Applause.] Our great State has been placed in mourning by the casu alties of this war, but the widows and orphans are yet steadfait in their loyalty. [Great cheering.] And though there may be a few wretches amongst us who sympathize with the unholy attempt to break up so beneficent a form of government, I de clare it to you, sir, and wish you to convey it to the President, that before God the masses of Pennsyl vania's people are loyal to the core ! [Tremendous applause, lasting some minutes.] Away off in the far South—in Miasisaippi, in Tennessee, In Ken tucky, in the Carolinas, in Florida, in Louisiana. in Virginia and Maryland—the Boil has been moist ened with the blood of our patriotic children! [Great cheering.] Thirty thousand of bur brethren have fallen during 'this war; but when I think of this I am only impelled to say, God bless'our brave people! They will stand by our Government. They will stand true to the traditions so rich in examples of Christian heroism. They always recognize this starry banner [pointing to the flag above him] as the emblem of liberty, progress, and power! • The Governor sat down amid prolonged cheering. The Mayor then aIIOU need the next sentiment: The hew Post Office—The channel through which will flow the stream of a nation's affections, hopes, and fears. May its current never be tainted with the poison of secession and treason. • Hon. Montgomery Blair, the Postmaster General, replied - SPEECH OF MR. BLAIR. Pumtroaryr AND GENTIAMEA: After the thrilling words which have just been uttered by the eloquent Governor of this Commonwealth, in rela tion to the great subject which fills all our heiirts, I fear you will all- feel as I do in coming to speak about the post office—that we are returning to business matters somewhat out of place. at this time and this place. lam gratified to feel that sometimes our fellow-citizens have a good word for us-of the Post Office Department. I hope you all understand that .these words of comfort fall upon grateful hearts, and the smallest favors of this kind aremost thankfully received. [Laughter.] Youknow that whenever anything goes wrong in our Depart ment—whenever a letter does not come to time—the postmaster, and everbody connected with his office, is scolded heartily ; and, therefore, my friends, you must not be surprised if we of the Poet Office De partment treasure this exhibition of your good feel ing towards us with more than ordinary tenacity. And now, gentlemen, let add, to what your Mayor has said, that this post office is not such a post office as .Philadelphia ought to have • not commensurate with this great metropolis that is to save the Union. [Applause.] 'Nothing is too good for Phila delphia. Nothing too good for the city wherein our fathers wrote the Declaration of Independence. But we have done something to mark our satisfaction and appreciation of the citizens of this great and loyal city. It is a cheering sign of the times that, even with this great war on our hands, we have been able to attend to the little amenities of life. We can attend to the postal services of tire people. There is no sign of decay in any part of the land. There is no depression of the popular mind,' no symptoms of degeneracy in any department of, bus ness. Everything is in healthtul prosperity, and the machinery of the Government works smoothly and satisfactorily. Let us hope that this may long con tinue, and the troubles which now darken our poli tical horizon may soon clear away, and peace, pros perity, .and happiness again reign throughout our borders. The Mayor read a telegraphic despatch from J. G. Bryant, architect, of Boston, proposing as his sentiment of the occasion the memory of that old postmaster, Benjamin Franklin. The reading' of the despatch was received with loud applause. The next toast was, "The Day we celebrate." Hon. John A. Hasson, late Assistant Postmaster General, responded. After paying a merited com pliment to the State of lowa, the speaker said it' was but a short time since that peace and prosperity' reigned throughout the land. The masses of the South were drawn into this war. They were deceived. He did not believe that one right could be named which bad been violated. He was notsurprised that those who had suffered most by this war should express no regret. If you go among the toiling millions of this country, you will not find one disloyal heart in ten thousand. This he knew, as he had been amongthem. But go among the tradesmen; and others of that class, and you find a different state of affairs. We should banish from society all men whose bosom le tainted with Seces sion, and teach our children to point at them with the finger of scorn. The speaker closed amidst great applause. - The fifth toast was" The Union—' what God bath joined together, ' let no man put asunder." , This was responded to by Governor Randall, of Wisconsin. ' He hardly knew what to say to the citizens of Pennsylvania as they had spoken them selves through her worthy Governor. Pennsylvania always speaks for herself, and she has spoken to day. She speaks from her schoolhouses and churches. Lately, she has responded from the battle fields, where her sons have 'fallen like heroes. Be thought - we were an impatient people; we cant wait ; we• are anxious to beat time. We can't wait to crush out this rebellion—a rebel lion the largest the world ever saw. We are making war against our own kind of people. We are mad because thii(rebellion was not crushed out within thirty days after it was commenced. After the war broke out we must remember that we had no army nor navy, and an empty treasury. We had to make preparation first, against preparation which had been going on for some time. If there is no hell, there ought to be for such men who robbed the- Government for the purpose of injuring it. What is this Union which God has put together, and which roman shall put asunder] The Conven tion which made the. Constitution of.. the United States„ made-. it as a Government for the whole-. people and not for a minority or . majority.. One . State did not make, but all; therefore One State can not destroy it.. When • evcrything•vvae prosperous and all was happy this rebellion raised its head and sought to overthrow and destroy the Government. The world never looked upon such a seotacle be fore. He thought we were too fault-finding. If the manmade; pi a •brigade Ziappena to rake A failure it is charged upon the President. We are not a military- people, and experiments had to be tried as to who was the most perfect. lie thought the experiments were not yet all tried. We have not yet got all the right men for the right places. Theme were other reasons why he had been slow in crushing out this war. God deals with nations as he does with individuals, for the wrongs they have committed; when Ile has punished ue enough lie will lead our army on to victory, and there will be no failure in crushing out this rebellion. [Applause.] We will not succeed because we are stronger or have the most money, but because we are right. [Ap plause.] In this war we arc all brethren. We strike hands together as friends of one Government and One Constitution, and for that alone thousands of our brave soldiers have died and auflered. The "City of Philadelphia" was next proposed, and was responded to by Alex. G. Cattell. Phila delphia was the home of his adoption, and he loved the city with a love not surpassed by any of her citizens. Among all the cities and towns in the United States, there does not exist a more loyal city than Philadelphia. lie was aware that this was a tremendous conflict in which we are engaged, but the right must ultimately prevail. We never ono permit enemies to surround ue. He had, in conclu sion, to say of Philadelphia what the Governor hail slid of Pennsylvania, that our eons lie on every battle field. "The Army" Was responded to by Col. Ruff. After a few introductory remarks, he thankedhem cordial ly, on behalf of the army, for the mere mention of their name. Of the number of troops furnished the army by ibis State, 60,000 alone were the sons of Philadelphia: He was delighted that our gallant brethren in the field had not bebn forgotten, and he hoped it would not be omitted on future occasions like the present '"The Navy "—The - I:tames .of Farragut, Foote, Dupont, and their:oxeye cempeers, are glowing with the same halolthaegilds thememories of the glo !rious Where of - the service. .. r een(usion -to Traitors . ""was responded to by illon. Gi Adams, of Kentucky. He alluded to the traitors in our midst, and spoke of those who had leagued themselves under the title of Democrats. He said we bad spies in our Government—men who were feeding from it. He hoped we would go on with the work commenced lu Philadelphia of sepa rating the goats from the sheep. We must go on with the good work. There is to be no separation. He knew the Border States were hound to keep to gether in spite of all the rebate in and out of it. The toast, "The Promiie of the Future," was responded to by Judge Kelley. The future of this country, he thought, was wrapped up in the sup port which the people will give to Abraham Lin coln. We hear it said that the Constitution is vlo lated by him. This he denounced as a lie. In every Institution adheres the right of self-defence ; and to maintain its life he thought it the duty of the Administration to crush the serpent when about to sting. [Applause.] The next toast wee the Press—"lnvaluable when rightly used ; a blighting curse when turned to evil. All honor to the fearless advocates 'of Freedom, and everlasting disgrace to the preachers of Dis union and Treason.), Mr. John It. Young, of. The Press, was called upon to respond to this sentiment. lie said : 117 R . MATOE AND GENTLEMEN : I had hoped that Colonel Forney woulo have been present this eve ning.to have spoken in reply to the sentiment which has just been read. His presence was anticipated by the committee, but I may say for him that no thing but the duties of his official position keeps him from this pleasant and agreeable company, and that he would have been gratified to have assisted in the opening of a new post office, for the erection of which he labored with so much energy and so licitude. lam proud to represent the press on an occasion so full of interest and importance as this. People who print newspapers are near ly allied with gentlemen who take charge of the poet office, and; next to an editor of a good moral character, I think the greatest man in the community is a postmaster. We have the same patron saint, if I may be allowed to canonize an illustrious predecessor of the distinguished gentle roan at the head of the table, Mr. Blair—[applause] —one Benj. Franklin, who is remembered to-day as the printer and postmaster of the early Common wealth. The veneratidn I have for Benjamin Franklin makes me feel quite at home among so many gentlemen of the mail-bags. They are our cousins by lineal descent. They are more than cousins by the necessities of business. Without them our news items would never be read—our urgent and eloquent appeals would never be appreciated, and the whole circulation would be confined to the courtesy and energy of the editor and his friends. We have read strange stories in-the mythologies of superhuman beings who held the lightning in their hands and forged thunder and mastered infinity. But I think we excel the gods in our present day. The labors of Hercules were hut the piny of children compared. with the'instance system and a dozen other sys tems of which it is a part. We of the press can properly appreciate it, for it gives us life and strength. If you stand beside a printing-press, at 4 o'clock in the morning. when a daily paper is being printed; and observe its various operations, you. will comprehend this. Inky men hang over the tamed Niagara as it foams out the damp and newly-printed sheets. Inky boys rescue them from its embrace in large bundles,. and bear them away into other chambers. Here they are bundled and tieAl r and labelled and pasted, by anxious men, who look. at the clock eagerly, as they have but five minutes to spare, and time presses; Five minutes of shouting, bustling, swearing, pack ing, and the heavy wagon is heard rumbling along the sheet overhead. All is satisfaction. They. _know that_when once themat_ office places its hand upon t hose thonitititis aid tens of thousands of !meets' they will be delivered, their destination is doomed. The editor is satisfied that his opinions will be read, the printer is satisfied that his type will be printed, and the subscriber, who may be many miles away, goes to breakfast confident that he will find his morning paper folded beside his plate. This satis faction, confidence, and general harmony is em bodied in the post-office system and never more completely embodied than under the administration of the gentlemen I see around me. [Applause.] I look upon the erection of the new post office, Mr. Mayor, in a time like this, as a subject for pride and congratulation. Notwithstanding we live in an.. atmosphere of war—heavy, oppressive, arid dismal —notwithstanding the responsibilities that hang upon us and weigh us down, we can still find time to fosterthe arts of peace. [Applause.] We never pause in our destiny. No war can retard us. We• move on, amid fire and smoke, and carnage . and embattlements, and brave men dying—we build railroads and iron-clads—we dig away obstructions in our bays, and hatter away obstructions in the Mississippi river—[applause]—we form scientific associations and fight battles—and Congress, after passing an act of general conscription, calml pro ceede down the calendar and takes up a bill for the establishment of a national Academy of Sci ences. Carve on your post office, in letters• of deeply graven stone, that in this year of blood and death 1863 the National Government had the cou rage to build a palace in menaced Philadelphia, and that when men were despairing of the Republic at home, and enemies were rejoicing in its prospective downfall abroad, the Government itself, supreme and sublime, in the consciousness of its own strength, went calmly on in its works of' civil pro gress. [Applause.] . We see this feeling in Phila delphia, and we see it everywhere over the Union. Close your book, patient student, and tell ua no more about Roma ! A. greater enemy than Hannibal is at our gates, and we not only make merchandise of his camping ground, but we build railroads and canals and-palaces. You. see it in my own profession. The press is in some respects the echo of a nation's feelings—and- the press of to-lay is as calm and imperturbable as though the land was at peace. lam speaking of its moral. sentiment. You find it ffiacussing, Poland and Mexico, the wedding of dwarfs, the coal trade,' the money-order system, the last novei r the. play, the opera, the tax upon paper. This mighty press. that men love to apostrophize, this vast, crushing, irresponsible, unconquerable monster which , toivers. over kingdoms and parties, and stalks over the world a terror to everything that is false, this "engine" as you call it, is still and calm. It looks upon the war as an incident—as something to be re ported and discussed and placed on.recordi but such. a contingency as fear or dread for the future is never known. This feeling of confidence in one another, and more than all, in our cause, which we saw to day when the flag was unfurled over the new pos office, which we see now as we sit pleasantly togeth er sipping this generous wine,. which attends us in all our business and social relations ;- this feeling, w itch, as an American, I am proud to sue, and as a member of the Press I am proud to aid—This feel ing will in the end be the salvation of our country, and for all time to come will be remembered as the noblest trait in the American character. [Applause.] In the momentous and magnificent future which' is coming upon us so rapidly we all have a great duty to perform. I think I can speak for the press of this country when I say, Mr. Mayor, that in eve ry contingency—in every time of danger—in every measure that looks to the safety of the Republic, it will be found fixed and fervent in its devotion. I speak of the liberal and high-minded press that re presents the honor and virtue of the country. Ido not promise unanimity of speech and phrase, but I do promise you sincerity of heart. There will be differences about men and measures and means, but beneath the contending waves the ceaseless current fs foreverflowing. We desire to see this country become grand and mighty.. Its greatness is our greatness. We are suffering from the war, we will welcome peace—but it is a peacewhich no journalist will ever blush to print on his page in large and exulting type. We are in favor of any measure that may contemplate the fall of our enemies. We of the press must meet it. as well as you who sustain the press. Out of this tumultuous war we must create and strengthen this Republic, and under all must lie the great principle of the age—the principle that will go into history with the century in which we live. You might as well expect the icicles that this February day has entwined around the pillars of the Capi tol to . last forever, as to hope for any per manent compromise or concession. To educate the people of America into these doctrines is the great duty of the press, and I am proud to think, Mr. Mayor, that in this noble work the press of this city —the press of the State—the press of the country— the enlightened and independent press everywhere —in England and Germany, and Italy and Greece, and Holland and America—is fighting this great bat tle of the age to a speedy, glorious, and perpetual triumph. [Applause.] The twelfth toast was • Our Flag.— ' " - "Flag of the brave, thy folds shall fly, The sign of hope and triumph high, When speaks the signal trumpet tone, And the long line comes gleaming on. Then shall thy meteor glances glow, • ' And canering foes shall sink beneath Each gallant arm that strikes below • That lovely messenger of death." This was responded to by Mr. George B. Lincoln, Postmaster of Brooklyn. The last toast was There's in you all that we believe in heaven— Amazing brightness, purity; and truth, Eternal joy, and everlasting love! Atter which the gathering dispersed. . A number of letters were received from distin guished gentlem en. %We make the following extracts: _ _ FROM GENERAL SCOTT NEW YORK February 14, 1863. DEAIt SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge your note on the part of the Corn Exchange and citizens of-Philadelphia, inviting me to be present at the in auguration of the new United States post office on the .23d inst, A visit to Philadelphia.would be most agreeable to me, my obligations to her citizens being many, and of the most pleasing character. .But I cannot travel even a short distance without pain and difficulty. I am, therefore, obliged to decline your courteous Invitation. Very respectfully, yours, WINFIELD SCOTT. Crzo. W. CHILDS, Esq., &0., Eto. . FROM SECRETARY SEWARD. DXSARTSIENT ON STATE, WASHINGTON, February 13, 1863. DEAR .Stn : I give my sincere thanks to the com mittee appointed by the. Corn Exchange and citizens of Philadelphia for their kind remembrance of me in connection with the occasion of inaugurating the new post office in that city. It would afford me much pleasure to meet the loyal men of your great city, but my occupations hers are of such a nature as to forbid me that indulgence at present. With great respect, &c. W'ILLIA.III H. SEWARD, FROM SECRETARY CHASE "It would Inc_give great pleasure to meet the citizens of Philadelphia on that occasion, but °mew duties will make 'lt impossible for mu to 16.1 e Washington." FROM SECRETARY WELLES. "It would give me Pkasutc to be present w ti►e occasion alluded tc., but pressing public duties forbid." FROM THE ATTVRNNY GENERAL "I am couatrathed to delay myself the pleasure Of sharing with you the enjoithenta of the occasioni GENIntAL IiALLEO/4 , • ' , Revels that offictst chiller ptevent Mg accept ance. ' FROM HON. J. COLBAMER, U. SI SEDATE. "I am gratified to learn• that the new imEtU office in Philadelphia is now completed. I put forth:come effbrt in the Senate to effeer this object and am happy to see that It has been' erected. My official duties,will deprive me of the'privilege of' accepting your invitation, and I can orrlySen4 the'Philadel• phians my highest respects and' sinCere eongratulat. 'lions on the occasion." FROM HORAO.E; GREREEY "I long ago decided that I would'xiotsquit my int• mediate post of duty for any purpose•that did not' seem to me essential until the war forte Uuion he• ended. In pursuance of this resolve, Dam obliged! to decline your kind invitation. That your new post' office may soon be in the daily receipt of letters from the capitals of every one of the thirty-four Stater, and that they may bear none other than a United States postmark, is the fervent prayer of "Yours, HORACE GRIELEY." FROM W. C. BRYANT. "If I needed any inducement beyond the kind terms of your invitation, I should find it in the general periotism, which, in the present crisis of our national affairs, animates so large a portion of the people of your city. Reasons of a personal na ture, however, prevent, Sm." FROM EDWARD EVERETT • "It would give me great pleasure to visit your hoepltable city on an occasion of so much interest, 6r.c." FROM GEORGE BIiNOROFT. ," I regret very much my inability to be with you, in Philadelphia, on the 2811 of this month." FIIMIVIIO* KEDTITEDY " I beg you to assure the committee • that I set a hlgh value upon' this testimony of their good ofillsion, and would not fail to acknowledge my gra titude In person, by presenting myself on the occa sion they purpose to me, if I could overcome the ne cessity that keeps me at home.,, FROM DR. 0. W - . "I must content myself with thanking you for the kind invitation, on behalf of the committee you represent, and assure you that I sincerely regret my inability to be with you at the inauguration." PEON 13. J. LOSSING (Extract). "The openine of a new post office in Philadelphia suggests a contrast. Leas than ninety years ago the Met general post office for the budding United States Government was opened in Philadelphia. "Dr. Franklin was Postmaster General, and his salary was Wed at $l,OOO a year. A secretary and comptroller received each $B4O per annum. Franklin was authorized to form a line of posts from Fal mouth, now Portland, in New England, to Savan nah, in Georgia with cross posts, if needed. The mails were carried on horseback, each rider going twenty.five miles and back, travelling night and day. "The whole of the accounts of the general poet office from Nov. 1, 1T76, for almost two years, were kept In a common half-bound folio volume of three quires of coarse paper!" Also, letters from Governor Andrew, of Mum. ; Mayor Opdyke, of New York ; Hon. S. Colfax, Se nators Wilmot and Cowan; Messrs. Yorree, Leh man, and Biddle, of the House of Representatives, and from the postmasters of the principal cities in the United States. CELEBRATION BY TILE UNION LEAGUE. Splendid Collation and Patriotic Addresses. Speeches by Messrs. Dougherty, Milliken, Lewis, M. Russell Thayer, and others. The beautiful club-house- of the Union League was opened yesterday to its members, and was for mally dedicated .to the uses for which it was de signed. The reading-room was arranged with ta bles, and a line collation was spread. The par lor and other rooms were all tastefully decorated, and during the early part of the evening the members and guests spent the time in so. vial and agreeable intercourse, viewing the house, and discussing the various subjects of the day. The pictures of Washington, Scott, and Clay, the window and doors, were ornamented with Sags, while over the door was an appropriate decoration. At 9 o'clock the house was crowded, and the scene was quite picturesque and animated. This is the first time the members of the club- have been assem bled together, and the occasion was one of great in -terest..7- On repairing to the banqueting roPm, Mr. Mc Michael, in a few remarks, introduced Mr. Horace Einney, Jr., who presided in the absence of Mr. Me redith, and read a letter from our distinguished Attorney General. SPEECH OF MR. HORAOE RINNEY, Mr. Binney then !aid I address myself to that honorable man what', the honor of Philadelphia and the support of the Admi nistration—l mean the Governor of Pennsylvania. [Applause.] We desire to welcome you to the home of social learning; we are proud to see you. Our creed is unqualified support of the Government and unqualified loyalty to the cause. You.have served the country faithfully, and have carried intoeffect the principles which our fathers have embodied. It has been truly said that war moves byiron and gold. For your services we beg leave to thank you, and if you have not done all you could, we know that your earnest wish was to aid the Government in this try log hour. I say, in behalf of the Union League, that you will always find a hearty and loyal welcome within these walls. • SPEECH OF GOVERNOR CURTIN Mr. Binney then introduced Governor Omni], who was received with loud applause. The Governor spoke of the difficulties which the country had to encounter in its endeavors to crush this rebellion. Be said he had endeavored- to serve his country, and reflect honor upon the State whose Chief Exeoutive he was. [Applause.] He had served his country as well as he could, and if he had failed to do all that was necessary, it was the fault of the head and not of the heart. In discussing the rebellion and the duty which was demanded of Americans in this crisis, he ably contended that it was the duty of all to labor for the preservation of the Republic. In speaking of our city, he paid a glowing tribute to Philadel phia. Be acknowledged that he owed much to our citizens, both for their support in the field and the able counsels which they had rendered him in the discharge of his arduous duties. He especially complimented our townsman, Mr. William M. Meredith, who, he said, was " a sage, sitting at his side, reedy and willing to give him the counsel which he so much needed and desired. The sup port which he had received from Pennsylvania in his effbrte to crush the rebellion, was warmly eulo gized. In discoursing of the war for the Union,he ar gued that there could be but one party in the North, namely,aparty of unqualified devotion to tlaeGovern ment, and earnest in its determination to crush the rebellion. There can be no division of this country. Providence has so ordered it that in this country , there can be but one Government for one great na tion. This war, he continued, can result in nothing but the complete subjugation of, the rebellion and the -assertion of the supremacy of the Union. The Governor then eloquently depicted the worthlessness of those who, in this hour of our country's peril, fail to give her their unqualified support. There can be but two parties now in the North—those who axe in favor of the Government, and those who are against it. In speaking of the part which our State has taken in the present war he !poke in the greatest praise, and said that be was fully convinced that the masses of the people of Pennsylvania were truly loyal. Neither would our people consent to a dishonorable peace; but the blood of thirty thousand Pennsyl vanians, who lay buried upon our battle-fields, was the mutual pledge that the penple of our State were fully pledged to crush the rebellion at all hazards. In exhorting the audience to their duty in the premises, he said, let us stand by the people of our State, and not by certain disloyal dignitaries in this city, who have not a single sympathy or good wish for the sue eats of right and Government over treason and rebellion. In reference to the " league," and and the objects for which it was formed, he spoke in the highest terms of praise. He would not only encourage the league, and its patriotic members, but he would especially advo cate all agencies which especially aimed at sustain ing the Government and crushing the rebellion. The Governor closed his remarks by a noble tribute to Pennsylvania, and its patriotic endeavors to crush the rebellion and sustain the Government in its struggle for its existence and honor. Rev. Dr. Bellows, President of the United States Sanitary Commission, was then introduced. SPEECH OF REV. DR. BELLOWS. After looking around upon this assembly and heat , ing your Governor speak, it seems as if Vennsylva- Ida alone should conquer this rebellion, and I feel I should not offer New York to • aid in the under heking. 'You number some five hundred or six undred of the most prominent and influential citi zens •of Philadelphia.. This should not be called the Union League or Philadelphia, but simply a Union League or National League, having one in every city. Safety of the Union is the sentiment that should prevail in all our hearts. I thank our Governor, (I call him our Governor); for telling us that the heart of the common people is sound to the core. Minn been said, and even tried, to leave New England out in the cold. You can't do it; her heart is too hot in - the work. [Great applause.] You cannot quench the volcano of Veauvlua. Thank God the people are in earnest in the great work of crushing the rebellion. Their real strength is the secret of unconscious soul. The spirits of our sires declare and so do our posterity, that we have a nation to live for, a nation to establish, and that it must go down unimpaired to the latest genera tion but, gentlemen, I'll not detain you—other gentlemen are to follow and I will leave you. SPEECTLI OF PRESIDENT ICING. Mr. President King, of the Columbia College, N. Y., was introduced. After what had been said, he. had little, to add in concurrence of the noble sen timents of. the Governor, and the well.exprowed: opinions •of the gentlemen who preceded him. In 'flew York they would gladly imitate the example set to them, and co-operate with us in faiior of abso lute and unqualified loyalty to the Government, and the crushing of the rebellion. Let it be under stood that there could be no. compromise. [Cries of "good" and applause.] We do well to distrust all who speak of peace in this time of war. When our country bide us war, we should do so. We have among us persons who profess tobe ex tremely in favor of peace. The man who speaks in defiance of the Government should be etrung up. [Applause.] Talk of peace Peace with whom? Men in arms because defeated at the polls. They rushed to arms - because they could not rule. Why_ attempt to make peace with those, whose gu,sra n t oes in the past afibrd no peaces! . They say, "We mean to conquer you. We must put them down under our feet, and keep them there until they are willing to abide by the decision of the law. We might have a patehed•up peace. It is a naked question of existence—to be or not to be. It is a question whn shall live. For that we ask no permission of anybody. We are in New York very powerless of good. We are governed by the most unqualified rascals that God ever made. They can do whatever they please and call it law. It is tit that in the city of the Hall of Independence we should come here, and learn that our Govern ment must last forever. We carry out your pre cepts. I have taken courage from ..the Words of your Governor.. The heart of the people is sound. Whistle the demagogues to the winds l The speaker concluded amid loud applause. - • SPEECH OF MR. JAMES MILLIKEN. After Mr. King had concluded, Mr. James rout ken was introduced, and bald . MR. CHAIRMAN : , The association which we are assembled here to-night to inaugurate imposes upon each of us a. thoughtful consideration of the objects to be attained, and of the duties we assume to per form. al; Col to tulna tile taunt tal4 l Q4kgta 01 the fundamental articles of our association, stipufortere that "the condition of membership shall be unqtlivii. - lified [loyalty to the Government of the Ifnitall States, and unwavering support of its efforts for thee suppression of the rebellion." This, sir, compre- Sends a duty which in times of peace we are too apt lightly - to regard, but which, in times of rebellion and war, brings with it responstbilitlea that we should not, nay, that we cannot, disregard. • As the dark hour of the night In our.countryis Cory closes in upon us, there arises an Imperative ne cessity for those who are truly loyal to join hands together and pledge themselves, not secretly but openly, not to one another, only, but to the world, to stand by each other, and by . the side of our Go- vernment, until the bright light of the Morning— which will so surely follow the darkness—shan dawn upon us. There is , this day a necessity that patriots should take their places in line, and that, in their forward march, their step should heap harm nious time to the musisof the Union. [Applause.] It woulthe idle for me to detain you with .a refe rence to the theoretical causes of the present rebel lion. It would be tedious - for me to arguewith you the numerous questions which have, from time to , time, been presented as the causes for the present condition of things. It must now Bunke to• know that we have rebellion and' war—"'grim. visaged war Q'—war the moat direful , --a consequence of a rebellion the motif wicked that has occurred under any Government, ancient or modern. Itir dimeo mons are so vast and its cruelties so terrible . tha't the brave even sometimes- hesitate, and' the timid grow sick at heart. It is. this question., and: only this, that we have now to treat A- war' that,. of necessity, carries with it successor failure—awar for the principles of a , great, glorious, and ftee- Government. Shall we sustainthat Government; or shall we permit in its stead anarchy and con fusion? Shall we have one grand nationality oft" States, or a- multitude of petty, notated, incoherent,. and discordant communities?' I am for the Govern mei:t. as it wits bequeathed' to us, and, therefore, have, for the moment, turned aside- from my ac" customed commercial pursuits, and come up-here to record my name as a member of this- Union League," and to raise my voice in wishing: it God speed in its hely mission. [Applause.] I care not what others may think or reel', but when the' Go vernment of my beloved coupry shall consent to part with any portion of its vast domain, or' shall yield one jot of its authority over the whole,•patri otism will die within me, and I shall feel myself an outcast, withouta Government worthy of thename' , anywhere on the face - of . the globe to protect me. [Cries of "Hear, hears"l. In the prosecution of this war, we' have had, hitherto, discouragements, painful and bitter dbe comagementa; but none, air, that have ever, in the slightest degree, disturbed my confidence in thsulti mate success of our cause. When the bright light of the noonday sun has been for too - loniert timeob. seured by portentous clouds, we are' apt to take counsel of our fears, and to begin to question whether there will ever be bright sunlight again. That which. is true of the physical world is also true oPthepoll-- tical; and possibly there are those here to-night who; in their efforts to penetrate the dark<ctouds which have seemed to them forso long - a-time to threaten' the fate of the Union, have sat' them down in sad nests, bereft of hope. To these would sa be of good cheer, for the .fawn is not far distant. Renew' your faith and courage, for in so doing you - will' sustain your Government; -and, more especially, will you sustain that noble and brave army of men who have gone forth to do, if needs be to die; on the field of battle. [Cheers.] Political institutions are not a mere• matter of 'ca price and choice. It cannot be that demagogues can take into their hands and shape the destiny of a na tion. All history teaches that communities, at their best, are only the free and intelligent artificers of a work that is not their• own. Twice within our memory France has overturned her monarchy and: set up a republic; but she could not hold :her ' pur-' pose against the conditions in which she found her self. The Cromwellian Parliament never-dreamed that their republic would- itself bring about the re storation of the Stuarts. Men are but the instru ruents.and when they throw themselves in the way of civilization and God's progress of a nation, they but help onward their own destruction and ruin. , Our country has surviveda war for its existence ; it was baptized in blood and consecrated to freedom. Our Government has successfully resisted a war for its destruction from foes without, and the sacred memories of the past have been the fireside themes through which we have been taught to love our country. And shall the disgrace of a failure to pre serve the Republic rest with the men and women of the nineteenth century? • I will not permit the thought. I turn from it to inquire who among us to-night shall live to hear prattling childhood ask of old age a familiar story of the struggles and of our Government in this fratricidal war? A history of its preservation when assailed by foes from with in, none can tell. But when that day shall arrive, what an honor, what 'a privilege be felt to have lived at this day, and to have espoused the cause of the Government. Then; sir, will come your- full honor, and the honor of all those who, like you, • in this hour of trial, are now throwing the weight•of their influence and position into the scale on the side of the Government. You and they will then be • deemed fortunate, fortunate men. The enemies of our country are not alone those who have defiantly taken up arms against the Go vernment. There are foes to freedom and to free government everywhere, and the midnight assassin is not snore to be dreaded than those who, at home and abroad, counsel, alarm, and cry peace when i here can be no peace. As our great nation calls to its aid the loyal, the chivalrous' the brave, and as it recoils in its eftorts to put forth with more terrible force its mighty power, and the craven-hearted and the cowardly, and those who sympathize with treason, whisper "peace on any terms," this sir, is but the cowardice of treason. 'What ! shall my Government accept an inglorious and disgraceful peace—a peace that will bring with it 'dishonor—a- peace that will lose us the respect of the nations of 'the earth—a -peace that will leave me less than freeman—a peace that shall as a failure of my country's flag? Never! Never! Never! [Tremendous applause.] Rather let us have war, and, added to it, pestilence and famine ; let all suffer, and the patriot die, but ever keep raised high aloft, and proudly' unfurled every where throughout our broad land, the ensign of the Republic, that inviting signal to the oppressed of all lands—the emblem of freedom. [Great cheering.] Let come failure if you will, but never a peace until every traitor in the land shall have unconditionally surrendered and renewed his allegiance to the Go- vernment. To promote this end, I understand, is the sole object of this association, and therefore I am here with you ; I am here to do my duty as best I may, "And leave the issue to a watchful God." HOUSES SPEECH OF MR. FREDERICK FRALEY Mr. Fraley made a brief and eloquent speech. He looked upon this war as a providential war; he had no fear of the result, when he looked upon the ;hope-beaming feces of his audience. He. looked back to the spirit of 1881, when our flag was assaulted before Sumpter's walls. This war will open the material Interests of the country, and our flag .. will wave in triumph over this land, from North to South, from East to Weat, there will be .an area consecrated to freedom. He had raised his hand and voice against the rebellion. Mr. Fraley. con cluded amid great applause, and was followed by. Mr. Lewis. Mn. r . RESIDENT : The necessity Of the present or ganization I consider to have been imperative. Our , Union League may be viewed as a great moral sani tary commission whereby the virus of treason, which. has of late shown itself among us, may be neutral ized, and many good men and true. saved from the? loathsome infection. It was indeed high time to take the matter in band when we heard our Government denounced by prominent politicians because of its partial adoption of measures deemed necessary for its self-preservation ; when we saw every art em-: ployed to bring our own rulers into contempt and to exalt the arch rebel into an object. of admiration ;. when there were even found some men base enough to concoct schemes for ranging 'our own great and true Commonwealth under the rebel.banner. It is not that our home traitors are so numerous, but because of their defiant bearing, and the boldness with which they proclaim their heresies, that it has become necessary to let them Bee and feel their in significance in this loyal community.. Let us re member that it weepy the activity of such unecni pulous minorities, and the inertness of the patriotic masses, that Louisiana, North Carolina, and Vire. nia, were forced to array themselves against the Go. . vernment of the Union. These unworthy eons of their country, lost to all sense of shame, and willing to rise to temporary power on the ruins of the fairest.• fabric of liberiy ever rearedby human hands, are at • this 'moment exerting all their faculties in striving to sap its foundations. They preach anew the ex-. ploded doctrine of the supremacy of State rights,.', the very origin of all our troubles. They denounce • as tyrannical or unsound every military and linen cilfl measure of the Administration, whereby only can we hope to suppress the huge revolt which has . drenched our land in blood. They abuse equally the • just and humane policy ofmompensated emancipa tion, and the bolder and :more necessary one of de.. throning their ebon idol, by declaring the slaves of all traitors In rebellion.free. The arrest of plotters against the nafion's life, and their being mercifully placed for a time where they would be harmless, instead. of their being consigned , to the gallows—as, in some cases, they should have . been—and the temporary suppression of incendiary newspapers, are pronounced, by our self-styled con, servatives B acts of intolerable oppression, and shame-. ful violations of the Constitution. ut for the " whitelivered renegades," who, while holding high . places in our Government;, which they had solemnly, sworn to uphold, were secretly plotting its over throw, and who now wield all power in the rebel lious States, ruling them with a rod of iron—for,. those perjured traitors, who spurn the Constitution. and ridicule its eateguanle, and who persistently avow that . they will never again live under • it, what words. of condemnation have our - new-faogled Union-lovers to utter?. Not one. And what is more atrocious still, these fallen. men among ua, exult in every occurrence which. would seem to give them hope of the ultimate success. of the wrong doers. A momentary pause in the adVance of the eagles of the Republic—a momentary; check to our arms anywhere, is hailed by.themavith. illsuppressed delight. By them all our victories are underrated, all our disasters magnified. Oh monstrous !:Oh !shame to human nature, that there. should be living, in the enjoyment of all the blessings of our beneficent Government, men who rejoice atthe. slaughter of their countrymen fighting for the pre servation of- that Government, and offering up their lives in its defence with the devotion of true martyrs. These miserable men feel no indlgeation.atthe COld.. blooded murders of unarmed loyalists, cotamitted-by the semi-savages who are warring •agatust us, and hear without emotion of the daughters- of fugitives from nameless cruelties, when bearing •to their. famishing parents food, being torn to. pieses. by bloodhounds. , Wean not time, then, my friends, that- we who, glory in the national name and national emblem, many of whom have found protection abroad. under the folds of that resplendent banner—that we who typify, as we well know, the sentiments of more than nine-tenths of the inhabitentanf this fair city, should lift the voice of warning, as well against the parlor traitors who infest the more. refinedwalks of private life, as against their leas eminent and de luded followerv, fit instruments to propagate the glosing Hee' had treason they have been. taught, among their humbler con sere. But do you know, Mr. resident, to, such, a pass has the insolence of this unchecked treason reached, that with all our preponderance of numbers, threats have been used that we should not assemble here in the discharge of our patriotic mission. unmolested? These threats have even been promulgated by a poi , tion of the public press. I, euppoae' there is no mem ber of this League that does not despise them, and feel hie good purposearather whetted than blunted blench an attempt to intimidate t nay more, I am sure there is none who would not defend our right to advocate the cause of ,our country hero or else where, if need be, with the strong arm. But most happy am I to say that, on the great drama of the war, we have every reason to believe the light of victory will soon beam. The "Gehenna of the waters," where rebellion struck her first bloody blow, reels before her impending doom ; the original seat of that twin monster repudiation is even now being encircled by the two elements, the chief ministers of the Divine wrath. All indicates that the rebellion is near its death struggle. When that is past the blatant as well as the smooth-spoken treason-talkers of the North will skulk into obscurity, never again to have their names mentioned except in contempt. That hour is ap proaching ; it may be close at hand. Time pauses not for man's convenience : " The mower mows on thou' the adder may writhe, And.the copperhead coil round the blade of his scythe.' SPEECH OF BEV. J. W. JA.OKSON _ Rev. Mr. .lackeion then addressed the audience, and made a happy speech. He said that he wee enough of a Calvinist to believe that God intended' this rebellion should be crushed, and that this country was intended for one nation, powerful and indivisible. He then paid a glowing tribute to the stars and stripes, and predicted their triumph over foes, domestic gad fOrelgtt, At tile 0002140/oil THREE CENTS. [Great applause.] SPEECH OF MR. LEWIS THE WAR PRESS, (PUBLISHED WEEKLY.) TnR WAR PRERs will be gent to gubscrlbere by mall (Per annum in advance) at $2.00 Five Copieg • • •' 9.00 Ten " •' Twenty" ••17.00 32.00 Larger Cinbe than Twenty will be charged at the lame rate. 81.50 per copy. Th e money must aboays accompany the order. and in no instance can the.teternut Ge ckaaated from, 48 they (d'art very Mk more than the coot of the paper. AD - Postmasters aro requested to act as Agoras for 'MK WAR PRES& ,—To the getter-up of the Club of ten or twenty, an extrsoopy of the Paper will be given. hie address, he remarked that he had anticipated rAplying to a toast to the clergy; but although no such toast had been oirered, he would nevertheless say that ii any of the "League " should die, they should not die without 61 benefit of clergy." His re marks were long and loudly applauded. SPEECH OF DANIEL DOTIGHERTY, ESQ. I have en old and valued friend, one from whom I liSwe received many favors, one who came to my aid in trying moments, to whom I here publicly knoWledge my obligations, and' En whose welfare I will Vev'er cermet° feel th ci liveliest intercet. And yet, thougSlt I have often seen his picture, I never saw him bll once in rev life, and, what may seem still strange!.,:i don't ca re if never see him saain-I mean tire Americau [Laughter.] fin bast been to dt. a - Yorick, An' "he has borne me on his back a thousand timer!" With ht have risen over cities, crossed oceans, looked &Arm on 'noun.. cleaved'the clouds, and on hie broad, espand. ed wings, halt geared into the blue etherial vault, tarried for a tlnie'at his "Mar goo' near the sun,... and then aafely descended tarry home again. But thooe days are gone ; and, thcregle Itrust my friend's' flight may be always onward elf] upward, yet I- no more wish to roam, an 4 for th - tr' future' prefer I he' earth to th e ether. Theiefore, unlike Hecate, I will' not ride in the air to-night. (Laughter and ap: plause.J We, on this venermead annivelavy, fdrtgtlly 1114' augurate the League. It starts uader ' favorable' auspices. Whether itc career shall de for good or evil remaicm to be seen.. I hope that otir children, When we brave gone, will proudly boast their fatherr were its mensters: or it mirrbe the veriest of failures; short-lived, a mockery to ea all, and'a stimdtrig Jibe of after times. We must remember that this house la not opened assn elegant lomeiging place ferhdurs . of ease, nor that its usefulnede is to give a meal to' a bachelor in w - ir.ter, or a married man in summer. The greed object im to link, in tkir bonds of a fiee-long friendship, all who are. true' to theit ccisnhy.' Such an institution is needed - by the hig,hest dictates of patriotism. RealizO• the awful peril ; of the times! Seek not to eaguise the truth! From these days date either the downfall and destrUction of the Republic, or the triumphant vindication of free institutions in America, to be fol- ' lowed by their uprising and spreading throlighout the civiltzed world. The nation has arrived at the• • very crisis of her fate. Either she is to rise with renewed youth the master-spirit of the earth, or else" die and leave her children a blighted name'andheri • tag° of endless misery, slavery, and wee. Admit the danger points to anarchy and despotism. If these are to he averted ; if we would not have our' days embittered ; if we would not that coming gene- • rations shall naive us in our graves; we must bend every energy,. sacrifice all things save honor to con querin this terrible war. We cannot triumph' with our people divided. Therefore, in every way, there - must be presented to the minds of our country men theimpending doom. If a municipal election were at hand- the knaves of the city, yclept•po- Michelin, would be at work day and night' with speech and circular, pamphlet and paper, boa lire and procession, arousingthe citized to their crisis —yet now, a nation is dying, and her children are ' indifferent to tier fate—nay, more -, horror of horrors ' —possessed by the malignant fiend of senseless par- ' • tisan animosities, they are ready to strangle each - other and see the streets of Northern capitals run red with Irrothersrblood ! Unless these animosities are•removed, all is lost. I believe the hearts of the ' masses are right—generous to the core ; if they could . but see where bad men are drawing them—if they but knew thereat - motives and sentiments of traitors who aspire to lead them, they would turn from them • with terror and execrations. The scales must fall from theeyes of the•citizens ; the veil must he torn . asunder; and they must, on both aides, cease their accursed partisan divisions, or behold in the near future the ghastly spectacle of a ruined nation—a despairing people, with horror seated at every hearthstone. [Loud applause.] Let it be our aim to-do all we can, by individual examples,-to banish partisan dissensions. Let our fellow-citizens know that the issue is not the suo cess of a party, butthe stebillly of the Goveniment. Let us seeloout all who-disown sectional affections. Let us claim - as, brothers all who do not limit their love to their city and State; but who believe there . is something "dearer,.sweeter far than all the rest" —who, at home and abroad; claim no prouder name than Americans rapplauseh: and who acknowledge loving allegiance to that sovereignty whose symbol is the stripes and stars. Montinued applause.] lam no adherent of Mr. Lincoln. I opposed his election to the teat L would - scorn to ask a favor of him, and-would notacceptof one if offered. I feel no partisan interest in the success of his Administra tion ;it him donemany acts of which I do not ap prove—more; however, of rilkileeion than commis sion ; but I deem it a duty, a holy duty, to take part in no organized opposition, but to do all I can to counsel, assist, and sustain the constituted an thorities of my country in this war on this hideous and tell-born rebellion. Again., gentlemen, we must demand from our puling> servants, high and low, the exercise of scrupulous-integrity, and strive to see once morepublicvirtue. To-the strictest accounta bility hold -every , official. Punish with the direst penalties the defauiterand defrauder, for if there be a villain more damned than a-traitor, it le he who, under the cloak of patriotism would rob and plunder the bleeding,and. suffering - soldiers of the Union. [Applause.-] If corruption cannot be punished, the nation ip not worth.preeerving. ELoud applause.] Let us, as citizens, resolve no longer to lift the base leaders of corrupt , organizations to offices of honor. Let the high-places of the State-and nation be filled with men famed for integrity and ineliect. Above all, never despair , of , the , &Tallith: [Loud and long continued applausel Our defeats and disasters have flowed from- our - supineness. Reinspired by thc_ glorious:--memories . . of this day, let us hurl contempt and scorn on. the dos/eras who woukl counsel a nation's dishonor by -begging an ignominious peace of armed, bloody, and unrclenttug treason. Proud of our city—lovers of Our State—let the senti ment that sways our-hearts- be;. Our country—may she ever be right; •but right or wzong, our country. ti [Loud applause, amid which: lily. Dougherty re red.] SPEECH OF MR. SCOVET..OP NEW JERSEY. Mr. Scovel said this is the Unmoor plain language. And as I am of western education, and only east ern by adoption, 11118 assembly of grave and rove- rend seignors will pardon• me- foe being a "plain, blunt man who love my country." I am like the Irisman, who, having. more -children then estate, sent the former out in the world Wcaro for them selves. "lily son," said he-to. his eldest born "if . you see a head hit it." So, I. new say of myself, without vanity, that my only , polities] creed is when I see a secession head I hit it. Advancing civiliza tion has driven back the law of force, and since Sumpter saw that drooping and dishonored flag, South Carolina will never present her rattlesnake braves; whether they be called called Brooks or not, with canes rich with gold and bearing this device, " lift. him again." Did I' say civilization advances ? i Ayl and with her new edn ucation,.she would hewthe spurs from the recreant knight who strikes-down free• speech with a brutal blow, But let us not forget that the enemies of the Ile One live. bile Cato and. the.beetaielsens of Rome pro longed the life of Llberty,Cataline and the worst conspired against the liberties of Rome. The ene mies of our Republic. livonot alone on the battle fields of Virginia ; and do not only guard the living graves of our brothers and sonawho are • Aliens and foes in the land of their birth." • • • • - • • • • . They are here at home. They are called " Copper lleads't or "Chunkheads" (by the naturalists,) on account of the thickness. of; their skulls! They wor ship at the shrine of Vallandighare, and consider D. A. Illahony a "bleeding martyr." To them, the flag that float above us to•night, adding lustre to the heavens themselves are a hissing and a reproach. They prefer being partisans for jeff Davis, to being patriots on the side of an honest,.God-fearing Presi dent. Talk about liberty to.them, and they . whisper "arbitrary arrests." POint them to the man gled form of our beloved eountry, at whose suffering side, by a common impulse gathers every patriot, and they. will. shriek "Democracy" with a preternatural ingenuity of error they talk of coercion, when we only ask that the laws of the United States be executed. against every offend ing:citizen of these Unitod States, whether in. Georgia, in South Caroline, or in Maine. They are Submissionists. In 1176 they would have been Cow-boys, 'Skinners, or Hessians. Now they are only. traitors. /end let them mark my words: While they.. attempt murder, they will only commit suicide. • The Government will live, and they will sink deeper than plummet-line- ever wended, leaving no bubble to tell where they went down. They are like the. Gaecon who, paying court to a minister when kicked out of the door, climbed in at the window. But their servility to Jefferson Davis will not save them. Should this Government go down, it will be with untarnished honor—like the Cumberland; with her guns shotted to the tip,. and the old flag at the mast head.; SPEECH. OR HON. 21%.. RUSSELL THAYER. Roe. M. Russell Thayer then spoke as follows : I rejoice, Mr. Chairman, to behold in this gather ing of the friends of the Union, so many men of ac knowledged infillOnee in this community. I rejoice to see here so many mem of intelligence and virtue, who, amid the perils of the present crisis, are willing to abandon all minor political issaues and differ - ences, and to unite their influence, their power r their means, their time, and their personal efforts, to. aid in the great struggle which has for its object thepreservation of eeountry for ourselves and our children to live in. It was the opinion of the great . and good men who. founded the American Empire (I do= not invent the phrase, sir; it Is one re peatedly used by. John Marshall, and with es pecial emphasis in that passage of his great history in which he describes the formation..Af the 'federal Constitution), that upon the perpe tnity of the American Union depend in no amall degree nob only the preservation of republican institutions in this country, but the hopes of consti tutional freedom throughout the world. egnoral Washington himself was of that opinion, /Ir.& de clared in his first inaugural address to Congress, on the 30th April, nee, that upon the success of the ex- • pertinent entrusted to the hands of the Aptitpictus • . people is staked not only the destiny of the republi:',' can model of government, but the preservation' of '•• the sacred fire of liberty itself. Thole arehis own. words. The men who carried the countryomacese fully through the trials and sufferings of.thk.war sef independence weregenerally of, that oydnioft... Cot, „ Lee, himself a Southern man, and Umetriber of Cone .- 1 grew, wrote to General Washington, on the .break ing out of Shayte rebellion, that 'anima it ;was put down, anarchy with all its calamities, Was at hand. I can see no, ground of,' difference in this respect between the success of altlessachueett o ' rebellion, and the success of a Sonthern.rebellion. Until recently the man would b.stve,beextlhought mad who could advocate the opinion that the Anse% . rican Union could be broken Ante diacordant 'frag ments without burying liberty "race, and, eacsdal or der in its ruins. The war against the,.Union how. . ever, (for thus it is that one unnaturel trim ' begets a brood of others,) has glver,,rise.to. a new atiet of .‘ political philosophers, who, in the . bosom of "this': loyal and true-hearted North, beyond.thre sphere•Or' . that - passionate, and. frenzieJiufatuetiert which darkened the understandings of the. Southern peo. ple,l and therefore, without thepeor arouse of that., , , infatuation, speculate withindiffercuce, or ratherir . : should say, with apparent,sallsfarithsa, upon the eX pediency of giving way • before„tho-violence of der r , hellion; of laying dowrrour arnia-inthe presenceof the foe which threatens,eue deduction, and aban doning the defence of.nlbe,Tlnion.' These men affect an admiration for Abele Southernrilliee and a' dis gust for their own _countey..end, its Government. What they lack in strength of, numbers, and in in fluence, they makeup for, in. the prenumption - with", which they declaim their. tumble sympathies and, their pusillanimous. selltintentL 'When the storm, clouds of the nregent dinsistrouti time shall have, cleared away, and our; country shall emerge from, them with new vigor, w.ith, renewed strength, and, with indistructahle maks, history will take up hate • pen, and in the clear, sunshine of that proudt and, prosperous day, write in her eternal record these., vete and unalterable. verdict of posterity agfaciot those who, without the exeuso of paestren, or the temptation of aelfintereet, abandoned, ig,the momens .of her most imminent and deadly, per% the country which gave them birth, v p, de., tided het great struggle for self.presernalion, who would have struck from her hand the, sword which she had drawn to protect her lieper and her life; who sympathized with her enemies, and lent them moral, if not material aid ; ivho,Gontemnietted with unconcern the dissolution of the. Government and the country, and amused themselves with specu lative fancies about the new forms.and alliances of Hie numberless fragments into which their ruined country should be broken. It ie tp not the arts and intrigues of these men, and toinoulonte the sentiment of an unqualified devotion to the Union and a determined support of the. Government in the present contest that this association has been formed. We here lay =de all partisan views and differences to unite our energiea and our influence in .a common eftbrt for the maintenance of the Un ion and the Constitutien,the preservat ion of our country, its' nationality, tie union, and 'its happiness, its power, and its prosperity. 'We welcome as a co laborer with lie in this great cause, all, without dis tinction of party, who are willing to unite with tut upon the principles of active, earnest, vigorous, and eternal hostility to the rebellion. We believe in ne cant's neutrality,UK VOW lire 40 fvr tie f9t4larg
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