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NEW YORK HERALD. —-| made to assassinate Doctor McDonald, of the Late News From Europe. We expect to receive somé tame this morning a | iysterious A' pt to Assassinate Doctor McDonald. On Friday night last, a most singular attempt was Bloomingdale Lunatic Asylum, while he was re- | turning tohis house through Twenty-first street, batch of highly important news from Europe—im- | in the vicinity of Gramercy Park. The Doetor portant to,the political andeommercial world, down | had been in attendance at the sick bed of a to the 4th inst. The steamship Hibernia with this child in Chelsea village, and was returning home news probably arrived at Boston yesterday in time | about dark, when, as he passed the board fence on for the NewYork mail,which left there at 4 o’clock | the north side of Twenty-first street and Abing- in the afternoon. Therefore look out for an Extra igratp. Tho Great Theological Cocktight at an end —ItsLesson and its Moral. Itis very true that we do not need much new confirmation, of the wisdom of the course, adopted | by thejphilanthropic Girard, in the exclusion of sec- | tarian teachers from the walls of that magnificent | institution for the intellectual and moral culture of the orphan youth of his adopted city; but if such were wanted,we have had it in the controversy be- tween Drs. Potts and Wainwright, which has just ter- minated. We could not have a much more man- ifest and instructive exhibition of the melancholy effects of that quarrelsome, schismatic, and angry spirit which distinguishes the controversies between rival theologians. In the persons of these two dis- putants, and in the little arena which witnessed their fight, we have had an incarnation, asit were, of the bigotry, jealousy, envy, malignity, and un- charitableness which so much disgrace many of the professors of Christianity; and an exemplifica- tion of the necessary tendencies of those contrever- sies in which the priesthood take such delight; and which at various periods since the commencement of the Christian era, have deluged whole nations with blood, convulsed kingdoms to their centre, and inflicted on the human race incalculable so- cial and moral evil. Now, then, that the reverend warriors have retired from the field, we will take | the liberty of briefly and calmly reviewing their operations, for their benefit and that of the religious community in general. The subject of the controversy was of the most ludicrous insignificance. But just such has been the character of the disputes which have split the | Christian church into so many fragments. Petty differences about the order of church government —the terms of admission into membership in a par- | ticular religious community—the rendering of a text—nay, often the mere gossip of some weak fool, have more than sufficed to split ecclesiastical | bodies into half a dozen sections. *Perhaps it may | not be amiss to illustrate this by a simple anecdote. Some years ago, an old woman called on a minis- ter in connexion with a branch of the Presbyterian church in this country, and asked his Reverence his opinion respecting some rather tough portions of the Westminster Confession of Faith. The clergyman was in rather an ill humor—for the cler- gy will sometimes, like other men, lose their tem- per—and evinced little disposition to enter on the controverted subject presented to him by the en- quiring and venerable saint. She pressed him. He said he had forgot the passage in question. ‘Have the goodness, then, to get me your ‘confession,’ and I'll point it out?” “Why,” replied the cler- gyman, “I believe I have not got a copy in the house—I have quite used up the one I had, having taken its leaves to wipe my razor on after shav- ing!’ The old lady almost swooned away with horror at this terrible ‘‘confession,” and forthwith went before the church session, and laid agrievous complaint against the minister. The profane priest pleaded that he had merely spoken in jest. But the “eld-rs” thought the “Confession of Faith” quite too sacred a subject for jest, and so the matter went before the “Presbytery.” There one portion of the clergy sided with their brother, and another as violently denounced his con- duct. A reference to the “Synod” followed, and by that time the matter had been blown into a flame which raged throughout the church in all its borders. A stormy debate took place in the Synod —Pottses and Wainwrights are always on hand in such emergencies—the war became furious—per- sonal feeling ran high on both sides—and eventual- ly acomplete division of the church into two near- ly equal portions was the result! Leaving out of view altogether the trivial nature of the difference between Dr. Potts and Dr. Wain- wright, the manner in which the controversy was conducted, was eminently calculated to lower their sacred calling and to cast reproach on christianity itself. There wasagreat and manifest want on both sides of christian feeling. It was indeed real- ly melancholy to witness such bitterness and bad feeling in men, the daily business of whose lives had been to study and teach those holy and refining precepts of self-denial, and charity, and forbearance, and brotherly kindness, which fell from the lips of the Saviour of the world! What a practical denial of their Lord and Master! What a forgetfulness of the dignity of their office! What a subject of tri- umph to the unbelieving and the profane! And how they seemed to revel in this interchange of sarcasm aad bigotry, and ill-will, and mutual animosity, up to the moment when Dr. Potts, throwing off altoge- ther the paltry mask of politeness, refused even to address his opponent in the ordinary manner adopted by gentlemen in their correspondence !— And taking advantage of this disregard of the common civilities of civilized life, Dr. Wain- wright after a final and desperate splutter, retreated froin the disgraceful conflict. On a survey of the whole, we must say that both the combatants have discovered,throughout the entire affair,very little re- gard to the religion they profess to teach, and have incurred a fearful responsibility from the conse- quences of their unchristian conduct. It is impos- sible to estimate the detriment to the cause of mo- rality and religion, which such a spectacle pro- duces. The thoughtless are seduced into the | don Avenue, he wasfired at from the opposite side, the ball striking on the right cheek immediately at | the jaw bone, and traversing downwards it lodged | in the frontal bone of the mouth, immediately un- der the nose, where it remains, the physicians not wishing to extract it. The Doctor states that as the ball struck him, he reared murder, and dropped on his knees; but recovering himself quickly, he turned and saw two men run hastily to- wards the Harlem Railroad. He was aided bya black man and a white woman, who were coming in a cart in the direction in which the two men were running, and hearing the cry ef murder hastened up to him and conveyed him home. They say that they saw the two men run, but could not tell whether they had a gun or any thing in their hands. The Mayorimmediately | on information being conveyed to him, hastened to the house where the Doctor lay, and made inquiries. No one could tell any thing about the matter. The Doctor had no quarrel with any one, nor could his family account in any way for such a murderous attempt upon the life of their protector. All the in- formation obtained by the Mayor he placed in the hands of the active Police Magistrate, Justice Tay- lor, who is pursuing every means to detect the ruffians, who unfortunately are yet undiscovered. The supposition is two-fold—either that the ruffians had mistaken their victim, as Dr. McD. had only moved into that neighborhood a day or two before from Fourteenth street, and few knew of the change; again, it was an unusual hour for him to be abroad. The other supposition is that it was the act of foot- pads, who had been driven to desperation, and had adopted this desperate means to procure money. This is strengthened by the fact that there were two engaged in the deed. A third supposition is, that among the fire companies in that district there have arisen some deadly grudge, and possibly this wasan attempt to get rid of some member of the body who was especially obnoxious. But, for the sake of the character of our firemen, who as a body are as re- spectable and honorable as any in the world—though now and then the conduct of some rowdy volun- teer brings disgrace upon the department—we can- not for a moment entertain this suspicion. Here then is another signal instance of the de- fect of our police and watch system. System! Bah! it is nothing more than a political engine in the hands of a rotten and corrupt city government, who are unwilling, and dare not, advocate its over throw, no matter how many hundreds of lives of our peaceable tax-paying citizens may be sacrificed— how many prowling burglars and robbers may enter our dwellings, and rob and plunder at will without fear of detection or of conviction. When shall we have an end of this curse of our city—the present police and watch department? Members of the Common Council, what do you intend to do in this case? Will you dare to pass either of the po- lice bills which are now before you, ere it isbeyond your power to act? To-morrow night you meet, and we will mark the man who in either Board hesitates to act, or by chicanery retards the pro- gress of the passage of the police reform bill. Doctor McDonald, at the last accounts, was doing well— the wound is not mortal. Newsparen Enterrrisr.—The newspaper enter- prise of which we have given specimens during the last ten days, has created some curious sensations among certain persons of the community, that may ead to some amusing results hereafter. Inthe first place,we have had a vast accession to our circulatien in the city, which is now greater than it ever has been since the establishment of the paper. We have also had a variety of applications from the merchants to advertise for them by the year upon thesame plan which the large journals in Wall street have done, but in almost every instance we are un- der the necessity of refusing to have any thing to do with that kind of business. The only wealthy com- mercial house of any importance that we advertise for by the year is that of Messrs.E. K. Collins & Co., and the only reason we do so for them is the fact that throughout the whole of the moral way, and the persecution which the combined press waged againstus, they stood by us against all threats and allthunders. Inrelation to the commercial patro- nage of the commercial community, we are per- fectly independant of it. We do not care for their patronage ; we care nothing for their advertising, because we have as much as we can possibly find room for, and, indeed, more than we can sometimes get into the paper. That kind of advertising is ge- nerally of the worst description; and we would much rather have the short, sweet, good advertise- ments from the great mass of the traders and deal- ers in stores, and such other members of the com- munity than from any of the banks or Wall street financiers or great speculators, who willrun up bills yearly to a large amount, and then take the benefit of the act, or run away or blow up—specimens. of which we have recently seen. By the by, perhaps when the size of this city increases, and its popula- tion comes to be nearly a million, we shall have to double our sheet in order to meet all the advertisements which will flock to us, the same as the Times does in London; but, at present, we choose to conduct our business upon the most strict and correct principles, and every day we refusea great mass of advertisers, because -they do not come up to our prices—and particularly great com- mercial advertisers, who are worth nothing. opinion, that Christianity is nothing but cant and hypocrisy, and the scoffer at all things sacred and venerable in religion, is hardened in his sad career ot blasphemy and profanity. And yet these are the men—these Pottses and Wainwrights, in the various churches, who are ac- customed to rail at the secular press, as profane, scurrilous, licentious, and immoral! It is from those very pulpits, where Sunday after Sunday, are poured forth the most violent denunciations of rival religionists, that the press is abused and misrepre- sented. It iseasy to explain their hostility to the press. It is quite too honest for them. Imporranr FRoM THE AFRican Squvapnon.—By private advices via England from the African squa- So much upon that point. In the recent extraor- dinary specimens of our enterprise, those who have been most benefitted are the papers of Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and other large towns in the neighborhood ; and yet these papers, with some very inconsiderable exceptions, talk of and publish the very news which we have furnished them, as if it was all obtained at their own expense, without giving any credit to the source from which they had gratuitously received it! The meanness and rapa- city of these provincial journals are quite charac- teristic; but we shall take care, hereafter, in send- ing early news by slips, to distinguish the sheep from the goats, for we can tell them we are only at the commencement of this new system of enter- dron, up to the night of the 30th of November, we | prise, and that although we have given an impulse are informed that Commodore Perry was engaged in an-effert to obtain tho surrender of the murder ers of the crew of the schooner Mary Cutler, from the native tribes inhabiting the coast, near which that unfortunate vessel was taken. The Commodore had been twice ton shore, es- corted by sixteen boats of the squadron, and four hundred marines and light armed seamen, and had held two palavers with the chiefs, but with little prospect of success, although it was known that the murderers were concealed in the town. It was expected that on the Ist of December a landing would be made forthe purpose of inflicting summary punishment by burning the town, when it was thought the negroes would make an obstinate defence. We shall therefore look for the next news from the squadron with somewhat of an anxious interest. Ice at Boston.—There seems to be as much cha- grin as ice in Boston. One paper, noted for its truth and piety, as well as for its sleepiness, says that the harbor will not freeze up again for eight years, beginning with last Sunday morning; and, therefore, the Cunard steamers can continue fo run to that port with perfect safety, notwithstanding Pollock’s Rip is such a dangerous spot. New Yorn Divorce Case 1x Onto.—Mrs. McEl- wain of this city, who recently obtained a divorce in Ohio, is said to be a highly respectable woman, to the movements of the newspaper press in this city, and country, too, for the last eight years, that have surpassed the progress made in fifty years previously, we mean, in the next eight years to sur- pass even our own efforts. We are gradually organizing a system of newspaper enterprize, which will astonish them still more than they have been astonished ; and we are combining the elements of intelligence upon commercial affairs, upon litera- ture, and upon every thing connected with real life, that will outstrip every thing of the kind that ever has been seen in this country in newspaper enterprise and intelligence. “Truty BravtiruL”—The preaching and ser- mons of the Rev. Dr. Whitehouse.—‘ Good proper- ty”—“t Pews in St. Thomas’ Church”—" Not so green”—“ The Vestry”—‘ Sweet looks”— The Ladies’ last Sunday.”” Maryranp Evection.—It appears by the last ac- counts that the Whig candidates for Congress in the first, second, third, fourth and sixth districts are elected, and that in the fifth district the Whig candidate stood an even chance with the opposition candidate. Navau.—Via New Orleans we learn that the U. S. frigate Columbia arrived at Rio on the 20th December from the river'La Platte. The U.S. sloop of war Levant sniled forthe Pacific about the Ist December. At Rio, 20h the U. 8. ship John Adams ‘The Grand American Republican Ball the Park Theatre. There 1s a great deal to be said about this affair. We regard it as one of the most interesting events which have taken place in this city for many years. It marks the dawn of a new era in society in New York. It was the commencement—the first mark- ed and decisive developmeot—of a great nad glo- rious revolution in morals and manners—the Wa- terloo, in fact, of the new regimé—the new dynas- ty of moral worth and respectability in the social life of this great metropolis of the Union. The emotions excited on entering the house were cer- tainly of the most pleasing and exalted character. Every decoration—every quarter to which the eye was turned—presented the subject of patriotic re- flection. The star-spangled banners—the trophies won on the glorious fields of Saratoga, Yorktown, ed defiance to the foes of freedom and America— the portraits of heroes and statesmen who have gone to their reward, and whose memories are as immortal af their deeds—the figure of the old re- volutionary soldier—all were emblematic of the spirit which animated the festive scene, and which lighted up every eye with patriotic enthusiasm. The beauty, the grace, the elegance of the ladies, were quite dazzling. The quiet, unaffected, natu- ral dignity of their demeanor—the propriety of their dress—and the universal cheerfulness which they exhibited—presented a most remarkable. contrast to the affectation, boldness, abandon, and extrava- gance ofattire, which characterize the leaders of so-called fashionable society. ‘Why, I never saw apy of thes2 lovely women before!” ‘I declare, { never saw any of these beautiful girls in Broadway or at the theatres!” “Is it not singular that I never met any of these ladies at the balls?” Such were the exclamations uttered by a few individuals, known as “ men about town,” who had somehow or other managed to in- trude into this company, and who seemed quite like fish out of water in the midst of go much honesty, intelligence, and respectability. Butthere was truth in their expressions of surprise. The la. dies who honored this ball with their presence be- longed not to the old, rotten bankrupt circles.— They were the fair wives, and daughters, and sis- ters of the respectable middle classes—of our in- telligent, honest, opulent and influential mechanics and artisans and store keepers—the true ornaments of our social state—as far superior to the leaders of the ton, as the precious metal itself is to the glitter- ing tinsel. They were specimens of the genuine ornaments of our social life, who are to be found, not in Broadway in gaudy apparel which has never been paid for—not at the theatre—not at the mas- querade, but in the quiet retirement of the domes- tic circle, discharging the duties of honorable ma~ trons and obedientdaughters. Thank heaven, Ame- rica can point to a bright array of such objects of a nation’s truest and loftiest pride. It was a remarkable fact, that of all the gentle- men present, not one possessed the distinctive mark of the New York gentleman of the old school—the button of the Court of Bankruptcy.— None of your corrupt financiers—none of your swindling brokers—-none of your bankrupt merchants —none of your absconding debtors—none of your rascally defaulters—none in fact of your gentlemen whose wives and daughters strut Broadway in silks and satins, and who give splendid suppers in their marble palaces up town, on the proceeds of swind- ling “‘ operations” of all sorts, or the pickings of some Banking or Trust Company, were there. No! But the hard working, honest artizan—the industri- ous mechanic—the man who had grown rich by honorable and successful toil—these were the men who crowded that festive scene. There was only one moustache in the ball room, and that belonged toa silly young man, the son of an honest carman, who has just returned from Europe, and learned enough of its follies and vices to make his father disown him. The music was intoxicating. National airs only were played, and they thrilled every patriotic pulse The ‘Grand American Republican March,” com- posed expressly for the occasion by Professor A. Kyle, excited the greatest possible enthusiasm. It is indeed a most spirit stirring composition, and must become immensely popular. All the arrange- ments were in admirable taste. The greatest good order, and the utmost enjoyment were maintained throughout. Several distinguished naval officers were present. Altogether, the occasion was one full of interest, and full of hope—hope for the par- ty, for the city, and for a reform of our social man- ners. From Auzany.—We have Albany papers of Fri- day. They state that the Governor has nominated Honorable SamvEL BEaRpDsLEY, now a represen- sentative in Congress from the Oneida district, to the vacancy on the bench of the Supreme Court of this State. In the Legislature on Thursday there was not much done. In the Senate the important bill intro- duced by Mr. Corwina, in relation to the Albany County Clerk, Sheriff,and Police Justice, Constables, &c., and pro- viding for a general end material reduction of the fees of those officers, was under consideration, and will, no doubt, pass that body. In Assembly Mr. Burnanx reported from committee, with amendments, the bill relative to the inspection of beef and pork in the city of New York, ‘he bill to amend the act of 1837,in relation to the Assis- tant Justices Courts of New York, was read a third time and passed _The committee of the whole had under consideration the bill for the relief of Harrison Stephens. [We gave the substance of this bill yesteraay.] ‘The committee rose and reported progress on the bill. In the House, Mr. Youngs moved the indefinite postponement of the bill, and the motion prevailed—ayes 48, nays 35. Dgrence or THE Wutas—By a Memper oF THE TWENTY-SEVENTH Concress—The Harpers have just published a spicy pamphlet of a hundred and fifty pages, which will excite a fresh commotion in the political world. It is capitally written, though by whom is a State secret—some say by Boots, others by Fillmore, and some by Kennedy. It has all the sharp bitterness of the first an: the eloquent style of the last, with Fillmore’s sound reasoning,though none of his dullness. We imagine they all had a hand in it, as it is evidently intended to be “by authority,” and probably has been revised at head quarters. A good part of it is made up of racy ex- tracts from the Herald, and this, if nothing else, will give it a tremendous circulation. All the world knows we have always been up to our eyes in Cabinet secrets, and of course, everybody draws on us for all important political information. The book will go like wildfire, and will help on the ex- citement and the fun. Tue Drama anv THE Srace.—On Thursday evening next, Mr. Barry of the Park, will give a lecture at the Society Library Rooms, onthe drama and the stage. He will unveil all their mysteries—un- gown itcompletely. Mr. Barry will introduce agreat variety of interesting anecdote and reminiscence, and if the plan be properly carried out, the lecture will be one of the most intensely interesting ever delivered in this city. Fruit Trees.—To the lovers of good fruit we would say examine the Catalague of P. Doane & Son’s Nursery, located at Smithtown, Long Island. It contains a Jarge variety of Fruit and Ornamen- tal Trees, Shrubbery, &c. of very choice varieties, and offers an excellent opportunity to those who wish to purchase trees, as it is a new establish- ment and the trecs have not been culled, and the prices of nearly all the articles have been greatly reduced from former rates. It must prove a great convenience to persons wanting trees in the mid- dle of the island. These trees are delivered in New York free of expense to the purchaser. We have one of their catalogues before us that shows a very choice selection. We would advise our friends to examine their stock before purchasing elsewhere. We see their catalogues may be had by applying at 88 Wall street. Death ov Ex-Governon Nonie.—The cortes- poudent of the Newark Daily Advertiser says, inteli- gence has reached Washington, through private le‘tars, of the death of Ex.Governor Noble, late Governor of In- cee aps died at his residence at Indianapolis, on the |. inst and Bunker Hill—the cannon which had thunder- | Musical and Theatrical. The Italian Opera 1s no lénger a doubtful-enter- prize—its success is established beyond question. Borghese, the bewitching Prima Nonna, is the reigning favorite; she disarms criticism, and nightly wins new triumphs. The opera of Belisa- rio has been most successful; it is to be repeated for the third time on Monday evening. The Park is'in motion. The friends of the legi- timate drama have hopes of something grand from the management inthis the coup dedésespoir for ex- istence. It is said that the Seguin troupe are on their way from the South to open with English opera. It is also rumored, that an attempt will be made to combine the dramatic talent now on the continent, in order to secure success. ‘The Olympic continues a general favorite. To- morrow night Mitchell produces for the first time, the grand romantic fairy opera of Cinderella, in splendid and effective style. It is to be the grand effort of the season, and in consequence of the very great outlay, and the rush which is expected, the free hst, alias dead heads, is to be cut off—the Press alone excepted. Mitchell has tact and talent, and when roused to action, energy sufficient to ensure Other and older managers might learn a useful lesson or two trom him. The Chatham Circus is dashing away splendidly, with the graceful Levi North and the daring Frank- lin. The Bowery Amphitheatre, emboldened by suc- cess, isbrimful of enterprize; and on Monday night a strong theatrical company, in addition to the pre- sent excellent troupe of equestrians, make their appearance. Palmo’s late company of English vocalists give a grand concert on Monday evening at Concert Hall. Macready was to play at the St. Charles, New Orleans, on the 7th ult., in Hamlet. He wasde- layed one day by the late freshet; his baggage having stuck in the mud somewhere between Griffin, (Ga.,) and Mobile. He returns North im- mediately after the close of his present engage- ment. Hackett made his first appearance as Sir John Falstaff, atthe American, on the same even- ing. Brougham, and the beautiful Miss Clarendon, were at the St. Charles. Wallack took leave of his New Orleans friends on the evening of the 8th, in a lecture, or dramatic olio, at the Amory Hall. He is posting North as fast as the mud will permit him. Ole Bull, fiddled an exclusive engagement of one night at the French Theatre after his return from Mobile. He then started for Havana. Meantime Vieuxtemps is en route to Mexico; while Damareau and Artot are on their return from thence to Ha- vana, Mrs. Hunt, of the Park, was amusing the Balti- moreans with light comedy at the Museum. She returns to join the company at Old Drury in March. Placide is also hastening back from the South on the same errand. Charlotte Cushman, Wheatley and Blake, are playing genteel comedy at the Walnut, Philadel. phia. Blake is announced for a benefit on to-mor- row evening. Kuby, the favorite of the pea-nut venders, and the newsboys, had a benefit atthe American, New Or- leans. He is coming back to de at the Chatham. Blitz, the celerated Thaumaturgist was at Cincin- nati converting live hogs into spermaceti candles, to the great surprise of the lard oil manufacturers. Willis Jones has issued proposals for opening the National Theatre. The Hutchinson Family are at Philadelphia. A Grand Oratorium 1s to be given to-morrow evening, at the Musical Fund Hall, in aid of the funds of the new Catholic Chuch of St. Peters.— The inspired Casella, and the German Monner Chor have volunteered their services. Several of Mozart’s grand masses are to be performed. Meeder’s opera of the ‘ Peri” is to be performed a second time at the Melodeon, to-morrow even- ing. Tickets have been reduced to‘ 50 cents.— Keyzer, the leader of the orchestra of the Boston Academy of Music receives a complimentary bene- fit. Otto Motty has arrived at Boston from Havana. Herr Driesbach, Miss Moore, and their lions were at Baltimore. J.G Bennett, Esq.:— As you are always prompt to notice all careless- ness in our public administrations, Twould | beg to paths attention to the management of the Des- patch Penny Post Office. I have at three different times deposited letters in the exchange box, which have not as yet reached their d stination; as they were not valentines,but business letters—important ones, too, I think you would confer a favor on the public by noticing the fact. Remaining, sir, very respectfully, Your obedient servant, Dd. New York, Feb. 16, 1844, Eprror New York Heratp:— By to-day’s Herald I see the question is asked ar to when the American Republican Mayorality Convention meets. 1 would inform you, for the in formation of your readers, that the time appointed is the 22d of February, at 7 o'clock P. M., at Mili- tary Hall, Bowery. Frienp Bennetr,— f ‘Will thee tell in thy paper how it comes to pase that the United States and the English are making such to do about the Oregon Territory, seeing that neith r of them have any more right to it than hee or me has, or thy triend Webb, to receiving that same legacy twice? Has thee ever heard of either this country or England buving the land of the poor Indian? If thee has, tell us when, and how it was paid. Ve- rily we are a grasping people to quarrel about that which is not ours, nor ever can be, without the consent of the true owners. Perhaps our people in Congress will make a law whereby it shall be lawful to own it, and thus come over John Bull. Thee frequently says in thy paper we are a great ople, and methinks we deserve the title, but 1 hope other countries will not prt at the end of great—rascals! Thy friend, Ovepran Suincue. Fes. 13, 184. James Gorvon Bennett, Esq. :— i Sm :—I send ae the following translation which Ihave just made from the Journal du Havre of the 12th December, 1843. in human life :— \Mehemet Ali, Poshe of Egypt, with « design to ex: flore, the country, adjacent to the White River, selected irom his Marine, Captain Selim, and sent him to Sennaar, ordering the Governor of that Province to equip a proper party for him.” Captain Selim was accordingly provided with all-the sag se ito ‘4, a military escort of two hundred and fift; men, with provisions for seven months, and he took his departure from Kartown. The account of these curious geographical researches is published in the Cairo Gazette. e extract the following passages :— “On Bistsing th Island of Zesankischabour, they found the villages of Makok, of Siam, ef Chalkan, of Josmalin, and of Oschira. The Country very agreeable, and fertile in maize, tobacco, gourds, beans, sesame ; we alto saw alittle cotton grow: In this region the river is in- fested with Higpopet ¢s—an encounter with whom ix dangerous, for they break in pieces or sink boats We saw many of these monsters stretched on tho banks in the hot sun. Captain Selim frequently fired his musket at them—but whether they were too far off or their skins too hard and thick to be penetrated by balls, none of them: were killed gr even (apparently) wounded. Frightened y the report of the gun, they plunged into the rand we lost sight of them. However, the expe- dition continued to ascend the river, passing through a dry and desolate country, sometimes bristling with moun: tains and sometimes immense plains boundless to our view After great fatigue and numerous perils, we arrived among a tribe whowe custom it is to cast all their dead to the waters of the stead of burning or bury: them. For many miles along the front of the villages, It is to me anew scene which are quite populons, the river bore along human bo- dies, some mutilated and some in high putrefaction. All along the river edges and on the bottom where the water was shallow, we saw human remains, on some of which birds of prey were feasting, while a horrible stench in- fected the air! Our boats often, while seeking a passage over the sandy bottom, struck against co! buried partly in the sands ; and then the co: eng dinturb. ed, drifted further down the stream. Nothing cangivean idea of the horror of this spectacle ; and what added to it, ‘was whole flocks of birds of pi hovering over the river and devouring their frightful feast. Gorged with their food, some were unable to rise on ing, and remained stupid on the sandy shore, until the burning rays of the aun had hastened and completed the labor of digestion — But this awful prey was disputed with them by very nu. merous crocodiles. Captain Selim states that he saw one of those terrible amphibious animals go out of the river, bearing a corpse between his jaws, the weight of which did not seem to discompose him. The crocodile carned to the middle of a small island covered with his pew reeds, when he bers nag ba from view, but we heard the noise of his formi jaws cutting and crushing whole limbs. This expedition did not succeed in its whole ob- hee It reached the mountains of Abyssinnia without be- me to discover the sources of the Nile, particularly of that branch called White Nile. The natives said that it would require two years to reach the none. MEIGS. is it, or is it New York, Jan. 29, 1844. ‘To the following facts I would call your notice. It isa cenversation between two cats which Thad the fortune to overhear while they were seated in the shade of my attic window—the moon Was shining brilliantly, her_ silvery light bringing to the view a miserable individual sitting moping on the opposite house top. The two cats are known to be vary semcecsye A E “y Vaintile, I wish to put a question to you, and require a categorical answer, Is that a tom cat or is not, that’s moping on our neighbor’s house top?” kaon answer you with much pleasure, Mrs. Chimneypot, I am anti-dogmatical, therefore will be categorical; I rather think as how he’s got no ears and no tail; it’s my opinion he ain’t no tom cat.” “That’s nothin’ todo with it, Mrs. Chimneypot,” said Mrs. V., with some. asperity, “there comes Miss Catsup, ta young maiden eat here Inade her appearance) we'll ax her. My pretty little dear, is'nt that a tom cat on the *tother side of the way 7 ‘Fes my idea that it aint no cat at all, any how you can fix it,” interrupted Mrs, C. Miss Catsup coughed, looked modestly at the two old ladies and gave itas her opinion “that she thought it mought be atom cat, and then again it mought’at be a cat.” ‘ ‘ _ Asshe agreed with neither, they both pitched into her, called her the hardest names they could think of—charged her as being schismatical ‘and op- posed to the true interest of cats. - Miss Catsup got away, and managed to blow them up at distance—calling them two old_ fools, &e. To which they replied that it was their duty to know if that was a tom cat or not. Mrs Vain- tile scratched Mrs. Chimneypot's nose ; Mrs, C. re- taliated and spat in Mrs. Vaintile’s eye. i He aint got no ears nor yet no tail!” exclaimed Mrs Chimneypot, “that’s nothing to do with the matter.” “Oh, but it is,” replied Mrs. Vaintile; ‘‘who ever seed atrue preper tom cat without ears and no tail? U knows betterer than that.” They were here joined by avery portly and handsome tom cat, to whom they again referred for his opinion. With a suavity BY THE SOUTHERN MAIL. Was! (Correspondence of the Herald.| Wasmincton, Feb, 16—11} A. M. Bloody Dual in Washington—Great Excitement. The whole city isyust thrown into aa excitement 1m consequence of a fatal duel which came off this morning, as Iam informed, between young Mr. May and a young Mr. Cochran, the latter a clerk in the War Department. I am slightly acquainted with Mr. May—he isa handsome young gentleman, the son of Dr. May of this city, and of high respect- ability. He is one of the managers of the Wash- ington assemblies. There are various rumors afloat as to the cause of the duel, which it would be inexpedient to publish until the ‘truth shall be known. I shall probably know all about it in the course of the day. je 5 Captain Stockton’s first grand entertainment will be given to the President and other high function- aries on Saturday. Fripay Evenina, Feb. 16, 1844. The President this day sent into tae Senate the appointment of William Crump, us Chargé to Chili, in place of J. 8. Pendleton, resigned; also Henry W. Watterson, to Buenos Ayres, where there has been no Chargé for some years. ¥ ’ The signature to Gen. Jackson’s Refunding Bill by the President, has created great enthusiasm. Senator Hannegan, a gentleman with a big heart and soul, took the bill to President Tyler for his signature, and brought away the pen which signed the bill. He will doubtless preserve it as a trophy in imitation of Mr. Benton, who in like manner secured the pen which drew the celeprated ex- punging lines. a if In relation to the duel this morning, J have leat ed that young Cochran was a medical student, and the brother of the Cochran who isclerk in the War Department. they fought with rifles, at thirty or forty paces, and Cochran was shot in the head. The report 1s—the truth of which I know not—that Cochran called May a liar and a coward—that May challenged him—and the result you know. of manner and apempous catawaul, he indignantly exclaimed, “That ere a tom cat!” He spat at wim with contempt. Mrs. Vaintile was in high glee.— “Why that thing was not respectable ; he was cut by Steay body; he was cut long ago—he a tom cat! hy, [’m the tom cat—look at me; aint la ictur?”? Mrs. Vaintile was shocked, as was also rs. Chimneypot; but then he was such a beauti- fultom cat—so smooth, so sleek, such ears, and such a long tail, that finally th y consented to let him make love to them; but then a schism oc- curred again who should poeneee his love. For the honor of which, they fought antil both rolled off the house into the yard ; but as cats generally fall upon their feet, they both cut stick to their re- spective homes—the one declaring that it wasa tom cat, and the other that it was not ; but the’ are both satisfied that the sleek gentleman, wit the ears and the long tail, was the devil. Miss Cat- sup, the young maiden cat, cought a cat-arrh in her face, which produced a cat-aract inher eye. She would never attend a catcall again if things were to end with such cat-astrophes. Bozrvz. Fenrvary 16, 1844. Mr. Eprror ;— { am pleased to find that, you have called public attention to the affairs of the Mer- cantile Library Association. It is_melancholy to perceive that this valuable institution, this monu- ment (to use the language of the Annual Report) of the merchants’ liberality, and the clerks’ intelli- gence, is languishing for want of support. No one can tell to what extent its character and usefulness will be impaired, if the clerks of this city do not give to it a more liberal support than they have ex- tended for the last year or two. I perceive that you ascribe its decline mainly to the illiberal poli- cy of former boards of direction. I wish that for the benefit of the present board, and for the guid- ance of the members generally, fe had explained wherein former boards erred. Thave some friends in the board recently elected, who, to my know- ledge, are desirous of receiving sopeestions from judicious persons, which will enable them to re- store the Wibrary to its former prosperous state. My own impression is, that the loss of members the institution has suffered for the last few year: is attributable principally to the vast quantity o' foreign trash, which; for want of an international cop) ae law, has been forced upon the public under the auspices of such names as Dickens, Paul de Kock, &c. Another cause for the withdrawal of names is to be found in the commercial embar- rassments of late years. Perhaps also the violence with which the elections at the Library were for- merly conducted, and the rowdyism which too frequently characterised them, may have induced many to withdraw their names. Be this as it may, Cfor one thank you for taking interest enough in the institution, to call public attention to the con- dition of its affairs. You will add to the obliga- tions under which, asa member of the Association, your friendly notice has placed me, if you allow me the privilege of addressing ree, clerks through your columns. Clerks of New York! It will reflect everlasting discredit upon you, if you permit an institution tounded and supported with great labor by your predecessors, which has for its object the development of your intellect, the in- crease of your knowledge, and the elevation of our character, to languish—possibly to expire— from your shameful neglect. You control its af- fairs, you reap most of the benefits which it yields, and you must sustain it. Mercantite Library. Mr. Eprtor :— 5 a _ Will you call the attention of the public to the importance of a law to protectthe mechanic, manu- facturers,and others, from the numerous frauds prac- tised upon them, by not only the organized swindlers, but by many who consider themselves res] ectable, who live by their wits, occupy a house, an live in astyle that their income will not war- rant? The mode of proceeding is to order the goods to be sent home with the bill receipted with a positive promise of payment; when they get there, the gentleman is out; you are requested to call again, or take the bill to his office ; if perchance he is in, he will request you to callin half an hour, as he has to step to the bank to get the money, or the parties have concluded to have some little altera- tions, or some little additions, and when received, he will pay for all together, The articles are generally sent by a cartman, journeyman, or boy, who being ata loss,go to their employer for instruc- tions. We cannot give instructions in all cases to bring goods back, without the money; there are many articles that people will not pay for until put up. A mechanic cannot make and send an article home, and take it back without a serious loss; for his time is emphatically money. We have abolished all claim against the body for debts, and the Exemption Law orState Blanket has exempted the property of this class from executions. | If these men ask for credit, they could not have it. We, therefore, ask that a law may be passed giving us a lien of ten or fifteen days upon goods sold tor use. where there is no express agreement for credit, and tomake ita felony if the goods are not returned upon application. This is no hardship in com- pelling a man to return that which he buys for cash, if he unexpectedly finds himself unable to pay. The bill recently introduced in the Assembly by the Hon. Mr. Bosworth from this city, has this object in view. Will you, Mr, Editor, second his praltew cry, effort by ug its passage by the -gislature? You cannot do your numerous readers a more acceptable servic A Mecuanic. New York, February 15, 1843. James Gorvon Bennett, Esq., Derenner or Hu- MAN Riguts in tue Ningteenty Century. Dear S1r— _ i _ pray that you will answer.me one single ques- tion, 1n answer to your great friend, and hypocrite, Mr. Webster. Suppose Mr. Girard had been a Jew, or suppose Mr. Rothschild had founded a cha- titable school, for his brethren, and banished Chris- tianity from its walls, would it have been lawful? Your friend and well wisher, i‘ A Canvinist, Successor to your friend Calvin, who caused to be burnt his friend Servetus in 1543, out of pure Christianity. Conrection.—In the case of the People vs. Chas. Radcliffe, which was tried on Friday, the porter house of James Brown was spoken of inthe report of the trial as being ‘a well known resort for English thieves, pickpockets, burglars and counter- feiters.” We are satisfied that this statement was calculated to do injustice to Mr. Brown. On the trial one of the police officers stated he had seen thieves go in and out of the house, but certainly it would be very unjust to censure any public house keeper on that account, as their doors must neces- sarily be open to all, and they cannot of course be supposed to know every person who calls at their house. We understand that Mr. Brown 1s an honest, industrious and respectable citizen, and can refer, asto his character, to some of our most respectable citizens. Amusements. Cuarnam Crrcus'—Hiram Franklin, one of the most remarkable young men of the age, in any profession, takee his first Benefit at this house to-morrow night, and produces a series of novelties of excelling at- traction, North rides in two new acts; Franklin, for the first time, will perform the masterly feat of turning a tri- ple aummerset. and the other varieties of the bill compose a catalogue of richnes never equalled, learn from a corres: Arnociovs Murper 0 ndent that an atrocious murder was committed in the lower part of Johnston County, N. C., a few nights ago, on the person of Mr. Robert Applewhite, of Wayne, by Bras. well Th aman ofcolor. The murderer, who is said to be nearly sixty years of age, immediately ‘fled, and is supposed to have come, with his wife, in the direction of thivelty.Raleigh (W.'C.) Register, Feb. 9. Other particulars will doubtless be found in some of your exchange papers. It is not forme to com- ment. In relation to Mr. Fhelps’ speech in the Senate, upon the tariff, it is enough to say that he felt no interest in it himself—‘argal,” no one else did. Larer.—It is now said that there was no lady in the duel affair, but that the difficulty originate a billiard-room. Ihave heard so many different reports about it that I now regret thatI have written any of them. The seconds were said to be Mr. Ashe of Philadelphia, and Mr. Poedler, of Georgia. The duel was fought at the Chain Bridge, in Vir- ginia, near Georgetown. It is said thatall the par- ues living have fled; but i know not why, as there is no law having vitality to punish any of them. r. Webster’s sermon in the Girard case has created no small amusement here among the mem~- bers of the bar. It is not known when he will “take orders.” 8. B. TWENTY-EIGHTH CONGRESS. FIRST SESSION. Senate. _ Wasuinaton, 16th Feb. 1844. | After some unimportant preliminary business, it was moved and seconded to take up THE TARIFF. Mr. Piretps took the floor for the purpose of pre- senting, as he said, some additional views. He re- garded the tariff as a measure of salvation to the Ceuntry, upon which its whole interests depended, It isimpossible for me to report Mr. Phelps. 1 will, therefore give you a picture of the Senate at this present moment. r Most of the reporters have left their places. beg Tavran and Heywoop are holding a ¢éte a-téte. Mr. Benton is writing a letter. z Mr. ALLEN is talking earnestly with Mr. Dean, C., from Ohio. | y i Mr. Woopnory is palling and laughing across the railing with your friend Blair of the Globe. Mr. Fosrsr is busy writing. Mr. Mixuxr dormitat—like old Homer. Mr. Wurre is folding and sealing letters. Mr. Aruerron is answering a letter from one of his constituents. : : Mr. Bayarv is. overhauling his desk, and put- ting his papers to rights. Mr. Sempne is cornered by a stranger. Ww. C. Rives’ mind seems to wander. Messrs. Woopnripek and Breese are téte-a- téteing. 4 § President Mancaum has just entered with D. D. Barnard, of the House. i Messrs. Arncuer and Uruam have changed their places, but appear to keep the pair, 4 Mr. Bucuanan is reading up his old correspon- lence. Mr. Evans triesto look edified. A Messrs. Sevier and Funron are conversing. Mr. Stvrczon exhibits great fortitude. And Messrs. Atchison, Bagby, Barrow, Choate, Crittenden, Fairfield, ‘Hennagan, Huger, Jarnagin, King, Merrick, Morehead, and Wright, non sunt inventi. A few persons occasionally enter the gallery, but quickly retire again. Ea House of Representatives. Wasuineton Crry, Friday night, ‘eb. 16, 1S44. The journal of yesterday’s proceedings being 30 very tedious, the further reading of it was dispensed witht after the Clerk had gone half way through it. Mr. Winruror then asked leave to introduce the Hon. Joun P. Kexnepy, from Maryland, who was sworn In. 4 : Several Executive communications were then re- ferred to the appropriate committees; among others the report of Captain Stockton about the Prince- ton. The Treasurer’s report of the yearly expenses of the Post Office Department. A report of the va- rious charges, Wc., against Lieut. McLanghlin whilst he was in command of the Florida Squadron, and all the monies that he then received, Wc. A message was received from the President by the hands of John Tyler, jr., informing the House that he had returned the bill (with hia signature) for the refunding of « fine of $1000 to General An- drew Jackson! (This produced considerable ap- plause.) ey ‘The report of the Commissioner of Patents was then received. . Mr. Brown, of Indiana, moved to refer the agricultural part of itto the Agricultural Commit- tee, and the rest to the Committee on Patents, and that 10,000 extra copies be printed. This was opposed by Cave Johnson, 3 giFinally the report was referred to the Co.nmittee on Patents. Mr. Grier then presented a report from two of the select committee, to whom were referred the celebrated Massachusetts resolutions about slave representation. _ He said that six of the committee had voted against amending the constitution as proposed in those resolutions; but that the commit- tee had also passed a resolution to allow each member of the committee to make his own report or view of the case tothe House. Mr. Adams and Mr. Giddings having voted in committee in favor of amendi the constitution so av to ailow no representation for slavery. ‘The report was Jaid on the table. Mr. Cave Jonnson triedto introduce some resolutions for abolishing West Point, but they were objected to. Mr. Stvenance then made a speech on the Report on the Rules, and contended that Congress had full power to abolish slavery in the District of Columbia, The House then took up the Bill to relieve the wives, children, fathers and mothers of those lost in theGrampus. Mr. Barwary moved to recommit the Bill so as to in- clude brothers and sisters. ‘This wastlost. Mr. Frick moved to include minors, brothers and sis- ters. ‘This was lost. Mr. Hate moved to lay the bill on the table. This was lost, 64 to 92. Mr, Weitex moved the previous question on engross- ing the bill, and it was ordered for engrossment. Ayes 110, noes 67. And then the bill was passed A bill was alao passed to relieve John M’Guire. ‘A bill to relieve Joceph Kimball who had done work for the government and never got hie pay. Mr, Cave Jonnson expr his determination to op- ‘and it was laid on the table. Teac Plumer came up. . opposed this, but it was passed. rath Phe had Mr Cave Jonns ‘A bill to relieve Jonathan Bean, came up. his health in the service of his country. Mr. Cave Jonson ond Mr. Hare opposed it. Mr, Brinkernorr said that this man was hearty and strong when he went into the service of the country, and left it quite broken down. ‘The bill was ordered to he engrossed ; 71 to 62. On its fimal passage, Mr. Cave: Jounsox opposed it, and it was lost ; yeas 7: fey Hn Mr. Newton asked leave to withdraw Mr. Goggin’s memorial from the of the Hot use Mr. Gilmer had been appointed tos high official ‘station The House first refused, and then adjourned abont 5 o'clock. lost Tue Duet at Wasutnaton.—The information received inregard tofthis affair is very contradictory. ‘The current reports are stated by our Washington correspondent. It is stated by the Intelligencer that Cochrane was reported to be living on Fri- day evening. Mencuants’ Bane Srock.—It will be seen @at the Board of this institution have decided to purchase from stockholders one fourth of the stock now held by tg SHEN at $100 per share.—Baltimore American, eb. 16. Surnrewe Count or rie Usires Srates, Fel. 14.—On motion of Mr. Sergeant, Ashbet Green, Jr, Exq., of ¥ sun- sylvania, and Loree J. Rowcrants, Esq, of Michign, were admitted attorneys and counsellors of this court. No. 8 —The United States vs Charles Jenkina, etal On) a certificute of division from the Circuit Court of the Uni-\ ted States for the Southern District of New York. On motion of the Atterney General this cause was dismissed, No. 13.—Robert Porterfield, appellant, ve. M. L. Clarke, et.al. The argumentof this cause was continued by Mr, Jones for the appellees, Adjourned till to-morrow,