Evening Star Newspaper, February 19, 1880, Page 1

| THE EVENING STAR. PUBLISHED DAILY, Except Sunday, AT THE STAE BUILDINGS, Ponzeylvania Avenué, Corner 11th Street, by The Evening Star Newspaper Oomnanv. GEORGE W. ADAMS, Pres’t, THE ie aly by carriers, on their own account, at 10 cents or 44 ey cents onth. Gopice at the Foner ens Cae years Bo sis monthy 88. W Sereda te Fost Oniee ‘at Washington, D. 6. Beco) tail matter. eA eceaY PTAR—Pr et ahed Friday_s3 8 [eer B eoies tor 820 bei FS Ail mail sutecriptions must be paid in ad- 0, sent longer than 80 paid for. Vises of aivertising made known on application. Che Loening Star. Ve", 5S—-N, 8,385. WASHINGTON, D. C.,. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19. 1880. TWO CENTS. SPECIAL NOTICES \ DEMOCRATIC ASSOCT- Meeting at Cosmopolitan st. new. at 7:30 “JOHN E. NORRIS, President. [= NATURAL MINERAL WATERS. nthesda, Bedford, Biue Lick, Congress, D2cp pe Siittale “Lithia, Rockbridge Alum, Geyser, Fithorn Gettysburg, Friedrickshall, “Hunyadi polinaris, Pullna, White Sulphur. Jance, polling, na te aaa oy, feb19 1429 PENNSYLVANIA Dk. L. J. KAHN IN FUTURE CAN ONLY Ce consulted at 51 East 10th st., New York. febI5-1w A MEFTING OF THE NATIONAL DEM. = OCRATIC COMMITTEE will be held at Wi lard’s Hotel, Washington, D. 0., on MONDAY, February 23d, 1880, at 13 o'clock in., for the pur- pose of fixing the time and place for holding the he xt Democratic National Convention. FREDERIC 0, PRINCE, Secretary N. D. Committee, Bostox, January 23, 1880. febl2-11¢ THE ANNUAL ELECTION FOR DI- rectors of the NORTHERN LIBERTY MARKET COMPANY will be held at the office of said Company MARCH 8, 1880. Polls open from 1 to5p.m. ‘Transfer book closed February 27th, Ce GEO. W. KING, Seo’y. feb5-4w > _THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE 4 STOCKHOLDERS of the NORT: LIBERTY MARKET COMPANY wi the office of said Company MARCH 3, 1880, 12 m. At which meeting the agreement of January 29, j880, entered into between the Bondholders and the Company will be submitted for ratification. febs-4w GEO. W. KING, Sec'y. IGER CHAMPAGNE. Cr POU Quanity Dar. BOLLINGER CHAMPAGNE. Extra Quauiry Dry. HE MOST DELICIOUS DRY WINE IN THE i MARKET. THOMAS RUSSELL, 1213 PENNA. AVENUE. For SALF BY JanS (eee SPECIAL NOTICE. CONGRESS WATER. d alterative con acid or ‘ hesa, aud tends to destroy the mucous membrane. Ali mineral waters that are dangerous irritunts may be known by an acid after-taste. dec8-3m2 HIAL, NOTICE—A, fresh supply | of FURE NORWEGIAN COD LI OIL at DREW'S Dro Store, corner 9th at. and Pennsyl- vanis sve., at 50 cts. per full pint bottle. oct DRY GOODS. EzEimac, COCHECO, PACIFIC, SPRAGUE, SIMPSON, GARNER, And All the Best Makes of CALICO, 8c. Good Quality CALICO... PFRCALES, in New Designs. GINGHAMS.. COTTONS AT THE LOWEST PRICES. PLAIN AND FANCY HOSIERY. TYLER & CHEWNING, (Late Clerks with Perry & Bro. 918 7th st. .1 febls D*® ¥ GOODS. 713 Market Space. All Winter Goods in stock to be closed at great 8. All Spring Goods left over from last season at than wholesale prices this season. All Domestics to te sold at the lowest cash price; many of them less than the present wholesale price. A new stock of plain and striped SATINS, spring shades for over dresses ayd trimmings. LANKETS, SHAWLS and pay COMFORTS ri JOHNSON, at less than present wholesale ‘GEO. J. febit 713 Market Space. GBr4t BARGAINS IN DRESS GOODS OF ALL KINDS. avd COLORED SILKS. STRIPED SILKS, DAMASSE SILKS. 5 (ERE GOODS for ‘Trimmings. LACE SCARFS, TIES, &¢ Pa ‘A small stock of desirable Ladies’ and Misses? CLOAKS and ULSTERS. “Ten per cent. off all cash sales. JOHN T. MITCHELL, febl4-6t 931 Penna. avenue. D® GOODS AT OLD PRICES. ‘The best yard-wide BLEACHED COTTON at the cid price, 10c. are size pure LINEN TOWELS, 12%c., (old ice. Piaree size pure LINEN NAPKINS, only 8c., (old Price.) Pare white TABLE LINEN, S0c., (old price.) tbe very best OALICO made, (in sbort lengths, ) 4 (Old price. Closing out of all our Ladies’ CLOSES at actual Pure Wool Golored CASHMERES reduced to 250. Golored and Black SILK VELVETS at cost. Sa NA AAS ROTINGHAM EACE, Yor Giriains, 123% 15, PIANO COVERS. Silk, 83.76 to 810. = = = BLACK PEKIN CARTER’S, 711 Market Space. SPECIAL BARGAINS IN BLACK SILKS. Our $1, $1.25 50 BLAOK SILKS are and 81. the 75 and 87c. Every pair of our Large size Double BLANKE’ Black and Colored ©. double width, (pure wool, ) reduced to Ue. (QEOTH, for men and boys" wear, 37, 60, 62, 75c., (old prices. Our large size pure White BRIDAL QUILT! 1.50, (old price.)” Que. Honeycomb White QUILTS, 50, 62, 75, 87c., dp x Gevb “CARTERS, 711 Market Space. 50 3 35 These are all new and desirable goods and are Bold at the above fixures to reduce stock. SHIRTS to order and ready-made. jan28 THOMPSON'S Shirt Factory, 816 F st. n.to. Qumrs THAT WILL GIVE SATISFACTION. The ‘‘Crown Diamond” Shirt, only 50 cents. The ‘‘Senate” Improved Shirt, 65 cents. The ‘Mystery Shirt, made of the very best mas- iin snd twenty-one hundred linen, only 75 cents. ‘The ‘‘Keception” Shirt, made of the BR&T muslin ways’ Ghirte; of the best Cannan and twent 5 of the best muslin an -one bandred linen, 60 cents: 7 at UCTION IN REAT EDUC Suns. THE PRICE cust yoanner, only Si. orders with us for Fine Dress Shirts. ‘e never fail to ve @ perfect fit. Waste to order fo = 5. Dress Shirts ‘* * 7.50 Fine (solid bos. ) to order foi 9.00 stock GENTS FURNISHING for Holiday DUBREUIL BROS., No. 1119 F st. n.w. ; oeneemed & HUTCHINSON, 817 Ninth street n.w.. Give special attention to BEMODELING, MODERNIZING DEFEO- ie TIVE PLUMBING ss SLATE that we | Hendet THE EVENING STAR. Washington News and Gossip. GOVERNMENT RECEIPTS TO-Day.—Internal rev- 197.45; customs, $679,557.00. enator Logan and ives Kelley, Brigham, Sapp, Town- — and Jorgensen called on the Prest ay. SIcNED.—The President to-day signed the commission of George Walker, of New York, to be United States consul genera! at Paris. ‘THE NAVAL TUG Mayflower, now at, Annapo- lis, will be sent to Norfolk to be docked and re- paired. A LETTER FROM GEN. BEAUREGARD was read before the House committee on post offices and ost, roads to-day, stating that he would appear efore the committee on Monday nest, and give his s upon the lottery question. Gex. LE Dvc, the commissioner of agriculture, has made an elaborate statement to the sub- commitice of agriculture charged with an in- Guiry as to the needs of the agricultural depart- ment, detailing at length the necessities of his department and explaining the disadvantages under which the departmeat has labored. Gen, Le Fevre, the chairman of the sub-committee, says that Gen. Le Duc’s statement was emt- nently satisfactory to the committee. Mason FRANCIS S. DonGE, paymaster U. 8. A. recently promoted on account of his action in going to the relief of Capt. Payne’s command, fias been assigned to tempo duty in the oftice of the paym: g in this city. ‘Thr WAR ON THE MOONSHINERS.—A telegram received this morning by Commissioner Raum | trom Collector Patterson at Memphis, Tenn., st “Deputy Collector Cooper reports the struction of two stills and about 4,000 gallons, other material, and the arrest of on and Kelso near the state line, Menry county. His party was surrounded and kept in a house all night out thirty men, but safely at Pari: ¢ of beer he Senate in executive terday confirmed the following no: To be supervisors of census: Georgia— Wm. I, MeWhorter, 2d district; Wm. Clifton, 3d district; C R. Johnson, 4th district; James M. Beards- ley, postr M. Gibson, register of the land olfice ‘at Darda- nelle, Ark. NAVAL ORDERS.—Medical Director Edward Shippen, a member of the board to examine candidates for admission and promotion in the medical corps of the navy, which meets In adelphia, March 1st n Surgeon W. to duty_at_ the Norfolk, Va., nav: Lieut. J. F. Murry, from special dut nd placed on waiting orde Penrose, from the na hospital, S and ordered as a member of the medical examining board, Philadelphia,’March Ist. SGRESSMAN ACKLEN, of Louisiana, expresses if satisfied with the action of the House Tday in directing the judiciary committee to inquire into the motive which prompted him" to make an alleged report from the committee on foreign affairs. He admits thathe made a mistake, but that it will be demonstrated upon further inquiry that his error had not back of it~ any corrupt interest. The judiciary committee will proceed with the inquiry at once. THE COURT MARTIAL, SENTENCES in the fol- lowing cases have been approved by Secretary ‘Thompson: Sergeant Oscar W. Litchfield, marine corps, found guilty of absence from guard and duty without leave, also drunken- ness on duty, and sentenced to one year’s tur- prisonm: partial forfeit of pay and dishon- orable discharge from the service of the United States; John Wilson, George Edwards and John Dorris. seamen, U.S. navy, all found guilty of desertion, and each sentenced to imprisonment. for ont r, partial loss of pay and dishonor- able discharge trom the U.S. service. A GerMay’s Oprnton.—Senator Don Cameron has recelved a letter from a prominent German citizen of Cleveland, Ohio, stating that a memo- rial, protesting against the nomination of Gen. Grant for a third term, is in circulation amo. ig the German element, managed “by a few men,” and that “they will roll up a heavy memorial,” but the avriter alleges that some of the persons signing it “never voted anything but the demo- cratic ticket,” and he closes his letter with the remark that if “we (the Germans) have got to be consulted every time, I think we had better ask Bismarck to come over and rule.” INDIAN COMMISSIONER BARSTOW THE EXCEP- TION.—The Secretary of the Interior’s communi- cation to the Senate yesterday in reply to the resolution calling on him for information as to whether any member of the board of Indian commissioners had been interested in contracts for furnishing supplies to the Indian office states that all of the commissioners except Mr. Amos C. Barstow deny having any connec- tion whatever with such contracts. Mr. Bars- tow says in his letter that he did have a contract to supply stores, which hefurnished at cost prices, business being dull. ANOTHER REJECTED NOMINATION. —The ex- ecutive session of the Senate yesterday after- noon was prolonged to half-past six o'clock by a debate over the nomination of John B. Stickney for reappointment as United States marshal for Florida. This nomination was reported ad- yersely by the judiciary committee some days ago, and its rejéction was advocated by several of the democratic members of that committee and by both of the Florida Senators, on the ground that Marshal Stickney’s past adminis- tration of the office has not been such as to war- rant his reappointment on civil service princl- p'es. Senators Edmunds and Conkling con- tended that the motive for the posed rej tion was merely pouiieays and, despite the dis- claimers of the democrats, an earnest and pro- tracted discussion ensued on this point, which vi terminated by a vote that resulted in Mr. Stickney’s rejection, the majority against confirmation being about two to one. TuE SENATE Exopus ComMITTEE yesterday ex- amined J. B. Syphax, of Arlington, Va., who on Monday last charged Senator Windom with having originated the exodus ovement. Yes- terday it appeared that the basis for his charge was the resolution introduced by Mr. Windom January 16, 1879, in_ regard to encouraging iml- grytion of ‘colored people from states where they do not enjoy the rights of American citi- zens to other states of the Union. ape said unat he knew nothing of the origin of the move- ch which Mr. Windom of this resolution, except that “a man who sweeps the floor of the United States Senate informed him that Senator Win- dom had come to him and requested him toori- ginate something touching the status of the colored people in the south.” Mr. Windom cross-examined him. His first Ce was: “Have they a lunatic asylum in Virginia?” and on being informed by Syphax that they had, in- quired further: “How did you escape from it?” After considerable badinage _ hi assed be- tween the Senator and the witness on the sub- ject of lunacy and lunatics, Senator Windom remarked that he had nothing further to ask the witness, who was thereupon discharged. Hon. A. C. Badger, a prominent North Carolina Tepublican, testified to the effect that there 1s ho just cause for the exodus from North Caro- pecteth posing oo not believe the recol- ot -K1UX days, six or seven ZO, influenced those who are leaving row ment beyond the made in. the suppo! ‘THE RETORT ON THE Carrie Disease.—A good deal of interest is manifested in the report of Assistant Secretary of the Treasury French, Which was read at the last Cabinet meeting. TLe report, which is on the cattle disease known as p.euro-pheumonia, has been asked for from various quarters. It is long and exhaustive. It will probably be sent to Congress the latter part of this week, and when tt tg printed copies can tesecured. One peculiarity about the disease is that it has not been known west of the Alle- gheny mountains, and has not yet en- croached upon the vast cattle interests of the west. To prevent its spread there especially and elsewhere, is the reason Mr. French recom- mends the appointment of a commission on this subject, with legislative powers. The re- rt shows further that the states of New York, Jersey and Pennsylvania are where the has been most prevalent in this coun- In the south it has not Ver COLLECTION OF TAXES IN THE DISTRICT. Answer of the Commissioners to | Questions of the Sub-Committee of the House Distriet Committee. In THE Star of February 9th was published a | call on the District Commissioners by Hon. Nel- son W. Aldrich, a sub-committee of the House | District committee, for certain information as | to the operations and enforcement of existing laws for the collection of taxes in the District. | ‘The following fs the reply of the Commissioners | in full: OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE Dis Hon. Nelson W. Aldrich, Sub-comani Committee on Distadct of Couambia, Sm: The Commissioners have the honor to acknowledge the recat of your letter of the 2sth of January, enclosing eight questions re- lating to the collection of general and special taxes in the District of Columbia, to which you inform us the committee desire fv! and explicit answers before recommending any further legts- lation on the subject. Before proceeding to an- swer these questions, a brief explanatory state- ment will not be out of place. In May, 1876, the late Board of Commissioners, organized under act of 20th June, 1Sz4, finding £rOss errors to exist in nearly all of the assess- ments made by the Board of Public Works, stopped the issue of tax-lien certificates, on the ground that the issue of such certificates would Unjustlyencumber the property of citizens for taxes which they did not owe. And, accordingly, no liencertificates were issued by that board atter that date. The present Board of Comm! ‘was organized under act of ilth June, 187 almost simultaneously with the passage of that. act, viz, on the 19th June, 1878, Congress passed an act directing the Commissioners to enforce the collection of all special assessments made under authority of the 37th section of the organic act of February, 1871, but pro- vided at the same time for the revision of hose assessments in all cases where complaint made, within thirty days, of erroneous and excessive chargt When, theregore, the pres- ent board nnized on the ist July, 157s, the most imp ', &S Well as the most embarrass- ing, duty which demanded their attention was the prompt and proper execution of the act of 19th June, 187s. So numerous were the applica- lions for relief under this act—over 30,000 were filed on the last limited for such applica- uons—that the Commissioners concluded, under advice of thetr attorney, to order the re- vision of //! unpaid assessments included with- in the terms of the act. This course was fen- dered unavoidable also by the methods pre- scribed, and followed in making the original assessments; Which was, to assess, pro Tata, the total cost of improving a street against the various lots abutting thereon. So that, in case of a single complaint of erroneous or excessive charges on any street, every assessment on” that street, whetiler paid or unpaid, was nect rily revised. And if, on_ revision, error was found to exist In any case the whole assessment on that street was thereby vitiated. As errors were found on every street, involving an average reduction of from 20 1025 per cent of the original assess- ments, the same reasons which Influenced the action of their predecessors induced the present board to postpone the is3ue of tax-lien certiti- cates until the revision should be complete and the tax payers furnished with revised and cor- rected bills. Justice seemed to demand this course, as, in the opinion of the Commissioners, it would be manifestly unjust to cloud the titles of citizens with liens for taxes known to be er- Troneous and excessive. No court would enforce the collection of a tax which was admitted by the authority imposing it to be erroneous and unjust. The act of 2ith June, 1879, was a fur- {ber step for the rellef of tax payers, and its third séction Was 4 hecessary sequence to the act of 19th June, isis. The first provided relief from unjust burdens for those who had no! these assessments, and the last gave to those who had paid _ these erroneous taxes. These acts were intended and declared to be measures of relie/, and oe sO interpreted by the Commissioners, it has been thelr single alm so to execute them as to secure to citizens every benefit which they were in- tended to provide. These laws also gave to the Commissioners the largest discretion, and not- withstanding the many complications and per- plexities which they have+caused, they have afforded great relief to individuals, and been fruitful of salutary results as manifested by in- creased satisfaction and confidence among tho tax-paying people, and by the large reduciton of tax arrears, both general and special, which they have accomplished. Question No. 1.—Has any attempt been made since June 27, 1979, to sell the property on which taxes were then in errears, and if 0, with what result? Answer.—The annual sale for the collection of tax arrears was made in November, 1579. With few Sera. however, where the prop- erty advertised was allowed to go to sale, the District of Columbia was the purchaser. The advertised list did not include special assess- ments for the reason that it is impossible to make a correct list of these until the amounts due are ascertained by the revision now in pro- gress. «Nor do the Commissioners think it advisable at this time, when the payment of these asses3- ments is progressing satisfactorily, to enforce collection by sale of the property. They it the wiser policy to await the completion of the revision before recourse is had to this last resort. In confirmation of this view of the case, it may be stated that in a list of about two hun- dred revised assessments heid by the Treasurer of the United States for the sinking fund, and recently transmitted by that officer to the Com- missioners with request to sell about one-half, are found to have been paid. Cee No, 2.—What number of persons filed individually written complaints with the Com- missioners within the sixty days provided for in the act of June 27,1879, that their assessments were erroneous and excessive, and what was the amount of assessments of the persons so complaining? Answer.—The number of_complaints filed un- der the act of 27th June, 1879, as well as under the act of 19th June, isis, were, as already stated, very numerous—almost universal; but the number cannot now be accurately. (Aare as no separate lists were kept; and to make them. would involve the compilation of a complete index to the voluminous records and files of the special assessment division, for the accom- plishment of which, within a reasonable time, the Commissioners have no suflictent force at their disposal. Question No. 3.—Is it true, as publicly stated, that subsequent to October 1, 1879, payment has ‘been accepted of tax-lien certificates and gen- eral taxes, remitting all penalties and interest, or accepting a lower rate of interest than that provided by law, and, if so, by what authority were these abatements nade? Answer.—No payments of taxes under the act of 2ith June, 1879, have been accepted since 1st October, 1879, with six per cent interest, or at a Jower rate of interest than that provided by law, except in cases where, on or before the 1st October, the parties had tendered payment, or had presented themselves to the collector offering to pay, but could not do so, because their accounts could not be revised and cor- rected within the time limited. In all such cases, where the bills were ready for settlement, the Commissioners, under advice of attorney, and in harmony with the true meaning and intent of the law, deemed it right to accept pay- ment as of the ist October. They did not think it just to permit a mere technicality, or thelr own tnability to adjust his accounts, te deprive a willing tax-payer of the relief intended by Congress. It may be further explained here that the Attorney of the District having decided that special assessments, for which no tax Hen certificates have been issued, are not chargeable with interest, payment of this class of assess- ments has been accepted without Interest. The unpaid assessments of this Class amount to $585,639.37. Question No. 4.—What number of special as- sessments were revised between June 27, 1879, and January’1, 1889, in accordance with the pro-. vistons of the act of June 27, 1879, and what was the total amount of such revised assessment, and the amount of drawback certificates issued in the revision? uestion No. 5.—What number of unpaid spe- assessments were revised between June 27, 1879, and January 1, 1880, in accordance with the provisions of the act of June 19, 1873, and essments, and the amount of drawback corte e amount whack certifi- cates issued in the revision? Answers to questions 4 and 5.—For the rea- sons given in answer No. 1 no more accurate and oe to these que3 an follows, viz:—Between the 27th June, reduction by revision. .... $133,019.14 total amount of drawback ‘ebruary, issued to Ist Fe 1880, under acts 19th me 1878, and of sth Sane se # It is proper to add that while some hold: tax-lten refuse bates Question 6.—What was the amount of the assessments made by the territorial mentioned in your recent report to which the attorney for the District advised you should be Included in the revision providea for | by the act of June 27, 1879, and what amount of drawback certificates have been issued in this revision? Answer.—The total amount of assessments which, under the opinion of the attorney re- | ferred to, have been included in the revision. 5, which amount has been reducer to $99,938.78. Of this last amount 92 remain unpaid. Amount ofdrawbacks issued under this revision is $58, 0, Question No. 7.—What amot f tax lien certificates were issued between June 27, 1579, and January 27, 1880, and also what amount of tax lien or other tax;certificates remain unissued at this time, and the reason they have not been issued? Answer.—For the reasons given above no tax 4s $299,816 Hen certificates have been issued since May, | 1876, nor do the Commissioners think it advisa- ble to resume the issue of these certificates until the revision of assessments has been completed. Question No. 8.—We would also lke an esti- mate of the amount of special taxes (including all special assessments, whether certificates have been issued or not) remaining unpaid on the 27th day of January, 1880, and a/so an esti mate of the amount of general and all ot taxes remaining unpaid on the same date? Answer.—The official reports make the fol- lowing exhibits on the subject: General taxes in arrear to ist: July. real estate .. On personal propert Total... se $971,204. The amount remaining unpaid at same date for current year ending 30th June, 1880, is: On real estat $582,711.15 On personal propert, 83,306.24 TOtA).... 2.000 senses ceeeee ee ones! $666, This last sum, howe is not considered as in arrear or delinquent before Ist July, 1830. Most of it will not be due until Ist May, 1 The amount of special assessments, iheluding ments for alleys, remaining unpaid on ist February, 1880, and pledged for payment of S per cent. Certificates, after allowing for reduc- revision of those not yet revised, is SH, This amount does not include the Sum Of $1,040,151.54,with which the United States stand charged on the records of the special as- sessment division. 5, In conclusion the Commissioners, after care- ful review of the whole case, express the con- viction, notwithstanding all that may be said to the contrary, that the’ methods which they adopted for’ the execution of the acts of 19th dune, Is 1 2ith June, 1579, furnished the ouly practicable means for the solution of the many intricate and vexatious problems which the w involved, and tor the accomplishment if ust ends designed by Congress. ults thus far have been favorable; the ayers, aS a rule, evince a willingness to i! just assessments against thelr property, and the burdens which have so long oppres ed them are being gradually lifted. A more hope- ful tone prevalls; and as the revision of assess- ments cannot be completed before ist July next, equity and good policy seem to require g that the relief provided in the first section of the act of 27th June, is sh tinued to that date. If this be done, the Commission- ers believe that the troubles and discontent caused by past errors of administration will soon disappear, and depression and embarrass- ment be succeeded by an era of cheerful pros- perity. They therefore renew their request for prompt and iavorable action on Senate resolution No. 64, the passage of which, they think,will greatly facilitate the collection of all unpaid taxes and assessments. By order of the Board: Very respectfully, J. DENT, President. Washington and the National Dem- ocr: ‘onvention. As yet it is impossible for the Washington committee to do anything more than they have done towards securing for this city the national democratic convention. This for the reason that but few members of the national demo- cratic committee are yet here. Meanwhile they have all been written to, aud the advantages of Washington have been fully set forth, T° “tent delegations are expected to arrive fm Gincin- nati, Chicago and St. Lows '%, the interest of these cities respectivety, Neither Cincinnati nor Chi have responded with any Iberal subscriptton to get the convention. The Chicago democrats say they are too poor, but they will contribute one-third of the expense if the rep- ere will make up the balance. The St. Louis people do not seem to be at all active, in- deed the only two cities making any demonstra- Ulon worth being called so are Washington and Cincinnati. The meagre hotel accommodations at Cincinnati are well known, although tt can Jay claim to a good hall. In the point of hotel comforts Washington far exceeds Cincinnati, and if it gets the convention will provide a place of meeting fully ample for all the requiremeuts of the occasion. Society Notes. The dinner given last evening by the trustees of the Peabody educational fund was in all re- spects worthy of the distinguished company Wno sat around the flower-decked fable in the private dining-room of the Riggs House. Hon. R.C. Winthrop, the president of the board, acted as host on the occasion, and his daughter and Mrs. Gardiner, of Boston, assisted ‘They received the guests inoneof the hand- somest private parlors, near the dining-room. ‘This parlor, as well as the adjoining was adorned with potted plants. The dinner was fixed for 7 p.m. Mr. Winthrop escorted Mrs. Hayes tothe table and shesat at his right, while Mrs. Evarts, who was conducted to her seat by the President, sat on the left of Mr. Winthrop. The others present were the Chief Justice and Miss Waite, Surgeon General, Mrs. and Miss Barnes, secretary and Miss Evarts, Miss Lucy Cooke, Mrs. Hayes’ cousin; Mr. Pea- body Russell, ex-Secretary Fish, Dr. and Miss Sears, Mr. Geo. Ri; Mr. Stuart and his son, Col. Theo. Lyman, Mrs. Fulton, ex-Governor Aiken, of South Carolina, and Mr. Hackley. The party evidently enjoyed theirrepast and con- ipecats for they remained at table untilafter o’clock. Miss Herndon, the daughter of Ee ponerse Herndon, of Alabama, was married last evening to Mr. Richard P. Deshon, of Alabama. It was a private wedding, at the residence of the bride’s parents, 515 13th ‘street northwest. Few were asked in addition to the Alabama delegation in Congress with the ladies of their families and Mr. and Mrs. John Carlisle, ot Kentucky. There were no bridesmaids or groomsmen. ‘The bride wore a fine white muslin very tastefully made, and trimmed with fine valenciennes lace. Her veil was of tulle. The costume, while very sim- ple, was highly becoming. Mr. James B. Eads, of the eet jetties, will leave Washington this evening for St. Leuis to attend the wedding of his daughter, which is fixed for Thursday next. She is to marry Gen. Hazard, an American now en; ina prosperous business in Liverpool. The wedding is to be a grand affair, and one of the noted events of the social season in St. ouls. ‘The Mexican Minister and familly entertained a limited number of friends on Tuesday eve- ning. They informally invite their friends for Tuesday evening of each week.—Secretary Ev- arts continues to receive invited guests on Sat- urday evenings. —This evening at 6 o'clock Mr. Chas. W. Russell will be married at St. Mat- thews’ church to Miss Lucy F. Mosby.—Mrs. ores of Utah, who has been tli with a severe cold and contined to her room for several weeks, has now so farrecovered as to be able to ride.— Miss Rose Gouveneur is now convalescent after an attack of scarlet fever. Mr. Samuel Gouven- eur, her father, has been so much indisposed lately that his family have been, owing to his sickness and having scarlet fever in the house, in a state of quarantine, neither visiting or re- ceiving calls. THE CONGRESSIONAL TRIP TO CARLISLE.—A Congressional delegation and others will leave by special car at 10:40 a.m. to-morrow to visit the school for training Indian youths at Car- lisle, Pa. ‘The visit is made under the auspices of the committes on Indian affairs of the House of Representatives—Gov. Pound, of that com- mittee, having the matter specially in chat Invitations have been issued to the Secret its, General FORTY-SIXTH CONGRESS. ‘Tuurspay, February 19. SENATE.—Vice-President laid before Senate a communication from the Secretary of the Inter- for, transmitting in response toa Senate reso- Tution, information concerning land grant. rail- Toad companies that have not performed the conditions of their grants. Bills were introduced and referred as fol- lows: By Mr. Rollins—To provide additional school accommodations in the District of Columbia. By Mr. Plumb—Concerning details from the army. By Mr. Slater (by request)—To de- clare the meaning of the word “orphan.” By Mr. Maxey—To authorize the Postmaster General to make settlement with postmasters for loss of money order funds, + postage stamps, ket cards an stamped envelopes, pocl registered Jett a lost or Stolen Without fault of postmas- ters, their employés or deputies. . Davis (W. Va.) submitted a resolution directing any heads of executive departments. who have not Gone so to comply with the stat- ute requiring such officers to annually report to Congress the number of employés in their departments, and whether any of them can be dispensed with, or whether any changes can profitably be made. Adopted. Mr. Blair called up the resolution submitted by him yesterday, calling on the District Com- issioners to inform the Senate whether the statute prohibiting appointment of any persona as policemen or watchmen in the District wi has bot served in and been honorably dis- charged from the army or navy of the United States, has been violated. Mr. Whyte moved Its reference to the District committee. The motion was rejected and the resolution was cted. Mr. Conkling presented petition of large num- ber of well-know citizens and firms of New York city, urging propriety ofa bankrupt law. Rererred to the committee on judiciary. Mr. Gordon moved to consider the motion heretofore entered by Mr. Da (W.Y: to re- consider the vote by which the Senate agreed to appoint a committee of 9 to co-operate with a Jike committee of the House in considering the subject of an inter-oceanic canal, Mr. Anthony moved to proceed to considera- tion of the calendar until 1:20. Mr. Gordon’s motion prevailed. The Senate by a vole of 25 to 13, proceed to consider the motion of Mr. (W.Va,) to re- consider the vote adopting the resolution for appointment of special committee on inter- oceanic canal. Mr. Davis explained his reasons for making the motion. The Senate, by & vote of 29 to 25, reconsidered the vote by which the resolution for the ap- pointment of a special committee was passed. Mr. Eaton thougkt the subject should go to the committee on foreig naffairs. Mr. Conkling agreed with him and thought a special committee unnecessary. Mr. Bayard hoped a special ‘committee would be appointed. The subject was of the greatest political and commercial importance and de- ies the exclusive consideration of a com- mittee. At 1:40 p.m., Mr. McDonald called for the reg- ular order, being the * five per cent.” bill. Mr. Morrill spoke against the bill. Messrs. McMillan and Saunders supported the bill, the arguments being similar to those here- tofore employed by other speakers on the mea- sure, HOUSE.—Mr. Bland, from the committee on coinage, welghts and measures, reported a Dill toestablish a mint at St.Louis. Printed and recommitted. Mr. Blackburn endeavored to dispense with the morning hour, so as to proceed immediately with the consideration of the rules, but was un- able to obtain the necessary two-thirds vote, and the House resumed, in the morning hour, the consideration of the bill regulating the re- moyal of causes from state to Federal courts. ‘The morning hour having expired, the bill went over without action, and the House, at 1;30, went into committee on the revision of the rules. The Committee of the whole, having under eensideration the third clause of the 2ist rule, Mr. Stephens asked permission to address the committee for ten minutes, but Mr. Blackburn submitted that it was not competent for the committee to extend the time for debate. Mr. Speer moved that the committee rise for the purpose of having the House extend the time for debate. The House never failed to do itself an injustice when it refused to hear the gentleman from Georgia, (Mr. Stephens.) Mr. Blackburn dented the propriety of thrust- ing anything of a personal character into the pending question. He desired to obtain a vote on the rules, and if one gentleman was it ted to speak, 1t would not be right to preclude another. He inquired whether, even if the com- mittee did rise, it would not take unanimous consent to extend the time for debate? The Chair stated that it would. Mr. Blackburn.—Then, I will object. Mr. Speer thereupon withdrew his motion. The House, by a vote of yeas 117, nays 114, determined to go into committee on the state of the union, to hear Mr. Stephens’ speech, and Mr. Springer took the chatr. Vorinc UNDER A MISAPPREHENSION. — The motion to reconsider the vote adopting Senator Gordon’s resolution to refer the inter-ocernic canal subject to aspectal committee was car- ried in the Senate to-day by a vote of 29 to 25, but several Senators have since stated that they voted under a misapprehension, that, thoughtlessly, they voted aye, thinking they were voting to sustain the resolution. These statements lead Gen. Gordon to believe the resolution will be sustained. A GENERAL ORDER Will be issued by the Post Office department to-morrow cutting down the mail service on all the “star” routes in the country to one service a week. THE TRUSTEES OF THE PEABODY EDUCATION Funp met again this afternoon and were still in session at 3 o'clock. The trustees will dine this evening at the White House. Among others who willbe at the dinner are Secretary Schurz, Postmaster General Key, Mrs. Schurz, Mrs. Key, and Seerctary and Mrs. Sherman. CoLoner M. D. BALL, formerly of Alexandria, and for some few years past collector of customs at Sitka, Alaska, arrived here this morning to represent the wants of the people of Alaska to thegovernment. Colonel Ball is looking remark- ably well. PERSONAL.—Gen. O. O. Mather, auditor of Shelby courty, Ohio, isin the city, the guest of Gen. Benj. Le Fevre, M. C.—W. W. Armstrong, editor of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, is in the city.— Congressman Wait. of Connecticut, 1s in New York.—Mr. W. H. Vanderbilt will sail for Europe in a few weeks———Miss Fanny Ranck, whom it was sald ex-Gov. Tilden was to marry, Was married on Thursday last to Mr. William McGinness, of Rockford, Ill.—bBret Harte has been invited to respond to the toast to “Literature” at the London Royal Academy banquet May 1st.—Dr. William H: (“Bull Africa, and is to be the recipient of a substan- tal testimonial from his brother journalisis. Archibald Forbes, who has wrested the doctor's fonction pre-eminence from him, heads the st with a hundred guineas. DEATH OF BRUMIDI, THE ARTIST.—Mr. Constan- tino Brumidi, the artist, so well known through his work at the east ey to-day at his resi- dence, 921 G street, after an illness of some months. Mr. Brumidt was born in Rome, in 1805, and was nearly 7% years old. He came to this country, an exile from Rome, after the European revolution of 1843, He had at that time an art reputation in It , Which served him a good purpose with Pope Pius IXth in pro- curing his release from prison, but at the same time he was banished from the country. On his arrival in Washington he was employed by Gen. Meigs upon the decorations of the Capitol, and his work, the pictures upon the walls of the room of the House committee of agricul- ture (including Cincinnatus at the Plow) at- tracted much attention, and he has been since engaged upon Povernmnent work almost con- tinuously. His latest and eign most import- ant work, the frescos inside “i dome o1 Gov. MICHAEL Haun, of New Orleans, fell his on morn- his lett His leg fund 699.69. from had reached on Tuesday tir John aceh Astor | Telegrams to The Star. | department to BUYING ARMY SUPPLIES. | Charges of Crookedness. ——_e—___ COLORED REFUGEES IN KANSAS. | An Earnest Appeal for Aid. CABLE NOTES OF TO-DAY. —_-—_ FOREIGN AFFAIRS, S America. . 7 ph in its financial article this morning says: “Argentine government bonds are depressed by the rumor that a telegram has been received announcing the intention of the exechtive at Buenos Ayres to disarm the civil population in view of the approaching presidential contest.” Prince Nichoias to the Powers. Vienna, Feb. 19.—Prince Nicholas, of Monte- negro, has addressed a further note to the powers, stating that he is disposed to enter into hegotiations upon the question of accepting othe Turkish territory instead of Gusinje an lava. President of the Italian Chamber. _RomeE, Feb, 19. = in chamber of depu- tie leet rind president of the Eferr Lasker Not Coming. Lonno ‘The Manchester @trrdian’s London correspondent says that Herr Lasker, the Prusstan national liberal leader and politt- cal writer, Who proposes a prolonged visit to the United States, has written to a friend fn England that he will have to postnone his pro- jecied foreign tour for political reasons. He has been suffering from nervous exhaus rheumatism but {s sufticlently reco tena to his public duties. Czax’s Winter s this morning in ie, commenting on the eat St. Petersburg, nority Of the Czar must er isto be maintained, ndlspensable condition of progress. like this must be punished with erity to crush them, but ia con- e necessary measures the a of gradual retorias he may entertain a reasonable hope that these horrors Ass away are “no special dispatches from St. ¢ this morning concerning the explo- Imperiat Winter Palace on Tuesday evening. ‘ihe only details recelved are con- ed In tel to Reuter’s Telegram Com- already been forwarded in On inquiry at the Russtan t night, we were informed that 's had been received there beyond that iblished (referring to Reuters Tele- s). We understand that the Duke of Edin- burg has received a telegram from the Duchess ot Edinburg, who was in the Winter Palace at the time of the explosion. A telegram from Lord Dufferin, British Ambassador at St. Peters- burg, has also reached the foreign office here, but no details are furnished in either case be- gone the confirmation of the fact of the explo- sion. The Morning Post says: We learn that the Czarina was asleep in another wing of the Pal- ace atthe time of the catastrophe and was not disturhed by the explosion, of which she re- tains in ighorance. Martial Law in_ Constantinople. A dispatch from Constantinople to the Man- chester Guardian says: The Turkish papers say that martial law has been proclaimed here. ‘The measure can only effect the Turkish popu- tion as Europeans are protected by the capltula- Uons. It is understood that a proclamation has been issued with a view to Rr ven ane disturb- ances in carrying out the m! itary reforms. COLORED REFU IES IN KANSAS.. An Appeal for Aid. New York, Feb. 19.—A card appears In the morning papers signed by Benjamin B. Sher- man, president Mechanics’ Bank; Jackson S. Schultz, Sinclair Tousey, Charles Watreus, F. D. Tappen, L. G. B. Cannon, George Biiss, Rich- ard Butler, Thos. a. Acton, J. M. Regua, J. Bishop Putnam, Isaac Sherman, E. D. Morgan, Wm. E. Dodge, appealing for help for the col- ored refugees ‘In Kansas. It states there are already 15,000 to 20,000 of them in the state. They continue to come day by day, arriving ragged and barefoot and without money. Many are sick from exposure to the severe climate, and a number had been frozen to death. They are anxious for work. Gov. S& John says he “has seen no tramps among them.” The appeal continues: “We are gathering up money and supplies for the Irish, which Isrght. Ought we not to remember our starving fellow-citizens in our own country Rey. Mr. Hayde: ree New York, Feb. 19. tal says: Rey. Herbert H. Hay! awaiting further proceedings on the charge of murder, lectured this evening. He wants to raise money to Gefray thecost of his defence. His lecture was attended by a small audience, owing to the storm. ‘The subject was “Cireum- stanual evidence.” A Deserted Wife's Suicide. New Yo! ‘eb. 19.—A_ special from Buffalo, N.Y., says: A married woman, named Diana Booth, 24 years old, committed suicide this y morning by taking poison. She was found lying upon her face in the yard dead, and an empty cup and vial were found near at hand. A physician stated that the vial had contained laudanum. ‘The theory of the deceased woman’s relatives is that she committed the deed while ina fit of despair, caused oy being deserted by her husband, who ts said to be a worthless fel- low, about two years ago. Earl Grosvenor at Niagara. GARA FALLS, CANADA, Feb. 19.—Earl Gros- venor and party are here viewing the ice bridge. They leave for New York to-night and will sail for Europe by the C1 ‘d steamer Gallia. Destructive Fire Wartexstry Depot, Cot Connecticut, , Feb, 19.— The speon factory, comprising a portion of the Booth and Hayden works of this elty, was en- trely destroyed by fire this morning, About 100 hands were employed in this department, which consisted of a four-story brick building, and at the ume contained an unusu- ally Jarge stock of plated ware. The total loss is estimated at $150,000, over $100,000 worth of Ubis being in cee Se and which was lightly insured. The total insurance on build- ing, Machinery and stock ts $82,000, The origin of the fire is Unknow . 19.—Virginia sixes, deferred, do. second series,’ 29%: a do. new ten-forties, 3934; do. bid to-day. 19.—Cotton dull and weak— yur stead; ba: Fe Bese Abel Ciabis jxcaSie: June, 5335 abn," April, : i “steam Oats but a Sat, westormwlite 40007: dos fouthern, 47 wl mixed, 5046. Pen ia 47048. Rye dull, 90099. bnebanged. 1 ‘arin aid without chance, ; fous lower, Lael, ‘Petroleum unchangel Colles anc Das, ft f Coffee firm Sugar steady—A 9%. Whisky Treutia to alverpoul Receipts—t ctive. DON, Feb. 19, 12: ». M.- for neney and. $835 for the account. on Lica Le ae Oat des Alig Re Ree ee 98 7-16 COMMISSARY SUPPLIES. A Charge Apnseet the Subsistence ee partment. New York, Feb. 19.—A Herald special from San Francisco states: A supposed crookedness in the subsistence department of the United States army is being dragged Into daylight here. Itappears that the commissary general at Washington thinks it more to the interest of the government to purchase pork, bacon, hams and lard in Chicago, aud ship them by rail, than to purchase them tn San Francisco. The gov- ernment could purchase here as good pork at a price $6, 50 cents cheaper per barrel, than it costs laid down here; bacon deemed better by the trade for 5 per 100 pounds, and the same brand of eastern hams 1 to 2 cents per pound cheaper. ‘The depot purchasing comm ys he merely forwards the market quotations: to the W pmmissary general, who or- he considers most advan- Y., Feb. careful canvass of 8 13 In favor of Mr. Smyth's con- irmation as superintendent of the insurance gainst ft. Wall Street To-Day. New York, Fi The Post, in its financial article to-day rhe stock exchange mar- | ets continue active and strong. U.S. bonds are strong at the recent large advance. Rali- are higher for all classes, the prince al transactions still being in the Erie, [ron peake and Ohio, and Kansas and Ss Erie first consuls are up to 193; the second consols, Which run 90 years at 6 per cent, are v*,. AS soon as all doubts are re- moved in the minds of the investing public about the regular payment of the interest, on these bonds they should become the favorite investment of the whole list, for no other bond runs so long. In the stock inar- ket the features have been Lake Shore, Erie, th telegraph stocks, Wabash’ and Pacific, Trot Mountain, Chesapeake and Obio; and Ohio Cen tral. ‘There is nothing new about the proposed consolidation of the St. Paul and Stoux City, the St. Paui and Minnesota, and the North Wiscon- sin. Fiem what we hear, however, the new consoldation, which will ‘own not far from eight hundred miles of road, with in due time become a part of the ‘Chicago and Northwestern system, unless the? Chic and Rock Island or the Milwaukee and St. Paul companies shall succeed In getting the property. In the mining list, Sutro Tunnel is up to 31; and Central Arizo Excursionists New Mexico. ATCHISON, Kan.. Feb. 1 large excursion paity from New Mexico embracing a number of ter ritcrial ofticers,members orthe legislature and prominent. citizens, arrived here and_were entertained by a ban On Monday next through trains 4 on to Santa Fe, the territorial capital of New Mexico, The Redbank * Firebug” Acquitted. REDBANK, N. J., Feb. 19.—The jury in the case of Naftel, the alleged Redban’ remained out all night, On Judge Waltong’s ap- pearance on the bench this morning the jury came in and stated to the court: they were un- able toagree. Judge Waltong sed to di se charge them, and an hour la they came in with a verdict of “not guilty.” —_—__+-+____. The District in Congre Inthe House yesterday,on motion of Mr. Hunton, of Virginia ate amendments to the bill making appropriations for the rerormschoo oi the District of Columbia were concurred Lo. Senator Blair's resolution calling for informa- ton as to whether enybody has been appointed on the Metropolitan police who was not honora- bly discharged from the army or navy was adopted in the Senate to- ‘The House District of Columbia committee at to-day’s meeting confined the labors of the ss- sion entirely to the consideration of the new municipal code. Mr. Aldrich, of the committee, is preparing a lution which he will en- deavor to have passed by the House to-day, making some additional inquiries of the District Commissioners as to the collection of taxes, and the manner in which delinquents have been treated. ADDITIONAI SCHOOL ACCOMMODATIONS. Mr. Rollins introduced tn the Senate a bill to provide additional school accommodations in the District of Columbia as follows: B» it tnacted, etc.. That the Commissioners of the District of Columbia be and they are hereby authorized to appropriate and dispose of square numbered 446, in the city of Washington, now owned by safd District, for the purpose of pro- viding additional accommodations for the pub- lie schools, and for this purpose they may set off so much of sald square as may be necessary for a proper and convenient site for a school building, and sell and disy of the residue as hereinaiter provided, or they may sell the whole of said square as shall be deemed best for the interests of the schools. Section 2 provides that so much of the square as is decided to be sold shall be subdivided into convenient Jots, and the sale shall be by public auction, or by advertisement for proposals for purchase, under terms to be prescribed by the commissioners; the latter having power to reject any and all bids, and may advertise the sale from time to time till all the lots are sold. Section 3 provides that if a part of the lot is re- served as a site, the residue shall be sold in lots and the proceeds thereof, or so much as may be necessary. shall be applied to the erection of a sohool building thereon. If no part be set apart for a site the whole square stiall be sold, and the proceeds applied to the purchase of a site and the erection of a school building in that division. But no school building shall be here- aiter erected unless the plan thereof be first approved by the board of school trustees. ‘Any balance remaining from the proceeds of the sale of the square, after the erection of a school building, shall be applied to the purchase of sites and the erection of other school buildiags where the same may be needed. Refered to the District committee. Work of tne House Committees To-Day. But few of the House committees were in ses- sion, and very little business of public interest was transacted. The following is a summary of the committee work to-day: The committee on mines and mining discussed Representative Belford’s bill, providing for the creation of @ bureau of mines at the seat of government, but decided to defer action until the bill upon the same subject now being framed by the land commission, 1s received from the President. The committee on territories, by a vote of 4 ta 2, a to report a bill to territorialize the Indian territory under the name of Oklahoma. The ways and means committee confined its attention to the private calendar. ‘Tne appropriations committee discussed the subject of deficiencies, the object being to select those items which are deemed most urgent, and eel them in a special deficiency appropria- tion. The foreign affairs committee, which has for some time past been engaged in the investigation of Representative Acklen’s case to the exclusion of ail otner business, held a general meeting to~ day, and agreed to report favorably the bill in- troduced in the House by Representative Cox appropriating $5,500 to pay Louis P. Di Cesuola the expenses of his consulate incurred by him while consul at Cyprus. The committee on Pacific railroads received the report of Representative Ellis from the sub- committee to whom was referred a petition asking the repeal of the 22d section of an act to incorporate the Texas and Pacific Rallroad “tirebug,” company, &c., and to declare the rights, fran- chinses and lands granted in said section to the New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Vicksburg Rall- road company forfeited, and that said section be re-enacted In favor of the New Orleans Paci- fic Railroad company. The report favored the ere and was accompanied by a bill em- ying the desired legislation. Representa- tive Ellis was instructed to report it to the House, with a request that it be printed and recommitted. District Government Affairs. ALMSHOUSE REPAIRS, The commissioner and intendant of the Wash- ington asylum, Geo. A. Caswell, has addressed a thatthe health ofiver aud inspector of buildings that the health officer an F OF be directed to inspect the old almshouse in com- pany with the intendant to ascertain what al- terations and repairs are necessary to place the building in good sanitary condition, and that the inspector of buildings be requested to pre- pare plans and estimates therefor. A report aoe this subject will be made by the inspector buildings. VITAL STATISTICS. The mortality in the District for the ending February 14, was 90, or at the rate of 27.53 per 1,000 per annum. Of the decedents 25 were white males, 29 white femaies, 21 males and 15 colored females, showing nual death rate of 24.63 per 1,000 and 33.43 for the colored here were 17 Hon. John Cessna has been chosen chairman of Pennsylvania. committee. white, and 31.57 for the col Marriages reported, 2i—white, 12; ry Political Notes. republican state