The New York Herald Newspaper, June 18, 1848, Page 2

NEW YORK HERALD. ! North-West Corner of Fulton and Nassau sts. JAMES GORDON BENNETT, PROPRIETOR AMUSTNENTS TO-MORROW EVENING. BOWERY THEATRE, Bowery—Frupa. Tuaes—Davir ww | Panis, | CRATHAM THEATRE, Chstham sireet—Craos i Come | AGatn—Ockan Lrve—Srinir or Tux WATERS, NIBLO'S, Astor Place—Tunee Dances nv THE ViENNomE Cxtips ex—HAnpsome Hussanp—Muraizs oF Human Lire. GARDEN, Battery—O1n Honesry—Warer | Wircnrs. MECHANICS HALL, Broadway, neat Muverneis—Erwmorian Stxe:ne, &o, — | PANORAMA HALL, Brosdway, near Houston—BaxvaRo's Pamonama OF Tae Misecaar?i” * MELODEON, Bowery—Vinorna Minstasis, ke. TABERNACLE—Srevermarxiscne CONCERT. ‘Broome- Cunurr’s | ‘TO-NIGHT. CASTLE GARDEN—Sacaxp Concert. New York, Sunday, June 18, 1838. _ Actual Circulation of the Herald. June 17, Saturday, Daily... +++ + 20,640 copies. < “ Weekly. | - 10,800 The publication of the /ierald commenced yesterday at 25 minutes past 3 o’clock, and findshed at 25 minutes before & o’clook. State of Europe—Engiand and France. Every steamship that arrives at our shores from Europe, brings us intelligence of additional revo- lutions, additional turmoil, additional fretting of the masses, and of renewed efforts of the people to assert their rights. In fact, Europe is in a tem- pest—a perfect whirlwind of excitement; and every day the question becomes more and more impor- tant—what will France do?—what will be the po- licy of the new republict—on the one side; and on the other, what course of policy will England pur- sue? It is in vain, as regards England, that we have hitherto looked for data on which to form an an- swer to these natural enquiries, up to this time. France, since she has thrown off her monarchy, has, under the guidance of that excellent man, La- martine, shown a wise disposition not to engage an foreign war, and to study earnestly the best means to be adopted to strengthen her position, and to make the republic durable and eternal. The best success has followed the effort. Already she is beginning to experience the blessings of free government, and in this we have the best proof of Lamartine’s sagacity, patriotism, and foresight. In the time of the old republic, a war of propagandism was undertaken against all des- potic countries—immense armies were equipped, and sent into the field againat all Europe, and the final result was, a combination of all Europe against the new republic, and the restoration of the Bourbons. Noman better knew this than Lamartine, and having been placed, as if by the hand of Providence, at the head of the Provisional Government of the Republic of 1848, to rule its desti- nies during the interregnum between the dissolution of the old government and the establishment of the new one, he wisely and patriotically shunned the dangers and excesses which characterized the first republic, and devoted his attention to strengthen his country by peace. This policy has prevail- ed up to this time, and has been attended with com- plete success. The French Republic—but a few months old—is one of the most powerful, 1f not the most powerful, nation in Europe. Her navy and army are equal to any emergency that may arise, and her old enemy—and the enemy of free govern- ment everywhere—England, has not dared to inter- fere in an open manner, directly or indirectly, with her policy. Such has been the policy of France to this day. By the last arrival from England, we have some indications of the policy which England has shaped, and which, from all appearances, she 1s determined to pursue. It is nota direct, open and honest po- liey, such as Russia has marked out; but a mean, pitiful, sneaking and underhand system of petty intrigue and [{Machiavelian decep- tion, which has always characterised her go- vernment, from time immemorial. It is the same system which she has so successfully, thus far, used towards Ireland, and by which she has been enabled to retain her dominion over that island, in despite of the wishes of her people, and in direct contravention of all principles of justice, human and divine. Fearing the power- ful republic—its increase, its stability, and its future greatness—and knowing herself to be power- less to oppose any obstacle in its way, this wicked, atrocious, and diabolical government has embark- ed in a policy which would disgrace the Thugs of India. She dare not meet the republic in the field, and there manfully and honorably dispute the spread of the principles of free government in Europe. The first shock of battle would show her nakedness, and prostrate her. But she can play the assassin—she can stab her enemy in the back, as she has done on former occasions, and as she is attempting to do again; but it will be seen with what success,eventually. The policy which she has determined upon, is to send abroad her agents for the purpose of intriguing with the people and with the governments of the Continental nations, of put- ting the people against the governments, and the governments against the people, of inciting the masses to rise for their rights, and inciting the governments, when the masses have risen, to massacre them, as has been done in Naples. There is not only every probability, but it is almost a moral certainty, that the late dreadful massacres in the city of Naples were the work of this treach erous and mean government, through the agency of its intriguers. At the present time there is no doubt that England has her agents seuttered throughout all Europe, whose missions are of this character; and who, if successful, would deluge Europe with the blood of her people, and re-estab- lish amid carnage and desolation, monarchy in France, and stop the progress of the principles of free government from making further headway in Europe. These are the despicable and underhand means which this assassin government has re- sorted to, to overthrow France, not daring, as we have before stated, to measure lances with the giant republic. Under this state of things, therefore, what ought to be the policy of France? In our opinion she ought to put an end to it by force; and she has the ability todo it. She ought to attack and raze to the ground the citadel of intrigue, and of the intriguers. She has means to do it, which the old republic did not posse: An invasion of England was always a favorite idea of Napoleon; and if he had had the means to effect it, there would be no necessity for repeating it at this time. But the old republic had no navy then, suitable for such an undertaking. The new republic, however, has. Her navy, at the present time, is in the utmost effi- ciency. With her large fleet of steam vessels of war, she could in two or three days embark an army of two or three hundred thousand republican soldiers on the English coast, to whose march to London no impediment could be offered. On its arrival it would be augmented by thousands and tens of thousands of Chartists, and other classes of the borne-down people; and on the arrival of this force in London, | at could destroy, at a blow, the British oligarchy, and emancipate the masses of the English people. This would be a stroke worthy of the great repub- lie, and would effectually relieve it from the dan- gerof English intrigue. A few years ago, such an undertaking would be impossible; but in the pre- sent time it is perfectly practicable, and the Bri- tish oligarchy know it. Hence their cowardly | state of perfection—that the attainments of the pro- fina oF Neworarer Canimny. Now that the | contest for the next Presidency may be said to be fairly opened between the friends of General Tay- Jor on the one hand, and those of General Cass on the other, we may expect the usual ebullitions of abuse and libel, from a great portion of the party press, on both sides the question, throughout the country, In less than two months, the bolting factions of all kinds—the abolitionists, barnburners, ultra whigs, &c.—will be dwindled down to a mere speck upon the political horizon. Already the leading journals of the Atlantic cities and of the Western States, have taken sides either for Cass or for Taylor; but we are sorry to see, among many of them, symptoms of that disgraceful and discreditable disposition to abuse the personal characters of the candidates they are opposed to— conduct which has too long disgraced the ill-con- ducted portion of the American press. In some quarters we observe that General Cass—a man of honor and high respectability, and strictly moral in his character—has been already denounced as “old fuss and fury!” while Gen. Taylor, on the other side, has been denominated “ the old blood- hound!” Among the journals which have set the example, and began this career of infamy and defamation against the opposing candidates, we are extremely sorry to see the commencement made by the leading journals of the Atlantic cities: the Union and National Intelligencer, at Washing- ton; the Argus and Journal, at Albany; the North American and Pennsylvaman, at Philadelphia, and the American and Patriot, at Baltimore. These are already beginning to show, at this early day, some symptoms of that most discreditable abuse which has been too long a feature of the party press of this country. The smaller and less extensively circulated journals, in the interior, following these examples, are yet more violent and more denun- ciatory against one or the other of the two distin- guished and honorable men who are before the country as candidates. We are happy, however, on the other hand, to observe in the midst of this commencement of newspaper abuse and calumny, that the indepen- dent press of the great cities exhibit the purpose of intending to pursue a dignified course in the ap- proaching contest, and to discuss with justice and impartiality the measures put forth by each distin- guished candidate, and to treat with courtesy and propriety the personal character of each of them. We have more to say on this subject at another time. Jounx Van Buren 1n Rocuester.—Some of the Western papers give another speech by John Van Buren, recently delivered at Rochester, upon the present crisis of the barnburner party of this State. This speech is conceived in John’s usual lively and amusing style, embracing a specimen of very re- spectable blackguardism against the old hunkers, with occasional cuts, now and then put forth against the Taylor men. There 18 nothing exceedingly novel in the speech; indeed, we are rather inclined to suspect, from all appearances, and the spint displayed in this speech, that John begins to find out it is rather up hull work to organize anew party upon the narrow platform of the Wilmot pro- viso. He may hold his convention in Utica next week, and endeavor to make a sort of arrange- ment for the next gubernatorial election; but there are evident symptoms that the power of the barn- burners is disappearing. The sudden evaporation and discomfiture of the ultra whigs, in the Clay demonstration attempted the other day in this city, ; . Bowery Tuxatee.—Notwithstanding the exiremely hot weather which we had yesterday and last evening, this theatre was again well filled, Miss Mary Taylor’s bewitching style of acting always insuring large and delighted audiences, The performances last evening commenced with the drama entitled “ The Deserter,”’ which was followed by the more celebrated one of “ The Devil in Paris,” in which Miss Taylor appeared in six different characters, as originally performed by her, with eminent success. Burke as Crequet, the valet to Beausoliel, was irresistivly comical. The entertain- ments of the evening were concluded by a re- petition of that magnificent spectacle of “ Cherry and Fair Star,” in which Miss Mary Taylor a; shone forth in her peculiar element. On n- day (to-morrow) evening, that distinguished tra- aetian J. R, Scott, will again make his appearance on the boards of this theatre, for a limited number of nights, when the grand historical play styled “ Feudal Times, or the Court of James III." will be produced for the first time in this city, on which occasion Mr. Stevens will make his first appearance since his recent severe accident. Niato’s, Astox Pace, BRoapway.—The performances at this house commenced at an early hour last night, that the juvenile portion of our inhabitants might have an opportunity to witness the beautiful and fas- cinating groupings and dancing of les danseuses Vien- noises, in consequence of which the house was not so fullas usual. These little favorites appeared in “ Pas des Fleurs,”’ “Pas Rococo,” and “Pas des Amourettes,”” all of which were received with enthusiastic applause, and deservedly, too, for their percent aes are really astonishing. The laughable piece of “Misories of Hu- man Life ’’ was also performed, in which Mr. dale sustained the character of Ally Croaker, or, in unsurpassed style. So perfect was his persona- tion of a crusty old bachelor, that he kept the house convulsed with laughter, during the whole piece. The part of Mi t, the servant, by Mrs. Maeder, was admirable; also Mrs. Courtney, by Miss Kate Horn, whose appearance only is sufficient to attract a full house. e is always received with applause. The su- Perior management of Mr. Niblo has already placed his theatre in a position equal, if not superior, to any place of amusement in the city. It is the best place to g0, both for the inner man and mental recreation. Cuatnam Tueatre.—At this popular place of amuse- ment, Mr. A. A. Addams, the unrivalled tragedian, ap- peared as Virginius, in Sheridan Knowles’s tragedy of that name, with his usual success, After a favorite Scotch dance by Miss Partington, the perform. ances were concluded with Shakspeare’s play of the Merchant of Venice,” in which Mr. Grattan ably sustained the “character of Shylock. To-morrow night, Mr, Hield takes h’s benefit; and judging from "the popularity which that gentleman has ac- quired during his connection with this theatre, there is no doubt bat he will have a bumper.. The bill for the occasion could scarce be a better one. The pieces selected are the nautical drama called “ Every inch a Sailor,” the laughable farce of « Chaos is Come Again,” and the grand romantic and effective tale of enchant. titled the “ Spirit of the Waters, or the Fire 7” and to those who have never witnessed its per- we would say that a glance at the scenery rth the price of admission. Castix Garpen.—The usual Sunday evening con- cert, will take place at this charming resort this eve- ning. This is just the weather for one to appreciate the cool breezes and fine refreshments to be had at the garden. Tho probability is, there is no finer place of resort in the United States; and we think that thou- sands of our fellow citizens will join us in this belief this day. The garden is open ali day, from sunris the trifling charge for admittance is as nothing, ared with the comforts, physical, and otherwis. 0 beffobtained. Lothian’s brass band pla; pieces of sacred music, with great taste ani nation. Cuausty’s Mixstnets concluded another week of triumphant success last night; they are undoubtedly the most amusing singers we have. They will com- mence another week to-morrow evening. Tux Strvermarkiscue Musicat Comrany will give one of their fine concerts to-morrow evening, at the Tabernacle. The immense success they have met with in the Southern country, during the course of their late §tour, endorses thefvery .favorable opi- nion our citizens formed of them last winter various discrimi- City Intelligence. Tur Weatuer.—The weather, yesterdyay, was real- ly oppressive, the heat being sucli that it was impru- dent to be under the rays of the sun. The thermome- ter stood nearly the same as on Friday, though the morning was one degree warmer, and the evening one degree cooler, making the average precisely the same. The following statement will show that the weather ia bode no good to the various discontented factions breaking away from the two great organized parties of the North. As the great contest progresses, and the spirit of the canvass increases in force and energy, 80 the power and spirit of the discontented factions will fade away and diminish with great rapidity. Tue Case or THE Patrior Mrtrcuet—Orinioxs or THe American Press.—There is but one opin- ios, in the American press, of the base, dastardly, and cowardly proceeding of the English govern- ment towards the patriot John Mitchel. It is an opinion such as we have already expressed—a scathing, scorching one—quite sufficient to sink any respectable nation into the lowest depths of in- famy. The Philadelphia North American, in comment- ing upon it, uses this language :— « ‘The case of Mitchel is one upon which the Ameri- can press should speak boldly and freely ; because it is an outrage, in free England, upon the freedom of the press, besides being a grossly tyrannical assault upon that British freedom which we have always been accus- tomed to look upon with respect, as the first fount of American freedom. If the whole people of the United States should unite in remonstrating with the English government on this act of oppression and barbarism. so unworthy of Enghsh civilization and the British name, they would only give utt rance to a censure which ministerial pride is destined to receive from the indignation of all the civilized world.” We say the people should, through their repre- sentatives, remonstrate with England against this damnable proceeding. They should make her feel that this free country has been insulted by it; that we cannot look on with unconcern, and see such adiabolical proceeding at this age of enlighten- ment—a proceeding which claims vengeance from all free nations. We can see no impropriety in taking such a course; and the British government, if it desire to receive or deserve respect from this republic here- after, will listen to our remonstrance, and not only repair the injury which it has inflicted on the patriot Mitchel, but grant to Ireland what she is entitled to. If she refuse to listen to it, she may regret it. warmer at this time than it has been in the month of June since 1838, except on the 30th of June, 1841, when the thermometer stood at 09 degrees. June, 17, Mo 12M. 3PM. OP. M 1848,.. 77 90 92 1847,. . 63 3% 74 1846. : 66 70 78 78 —showing an average of 18 degrees warmer weather than the corresponding date of any of those years set down. As will be seen by the table, the evening was more pleasant than the day; but it was clear, and, doubtless, without one of those sudden changes to which the cli- mate is subject, to-day will be equally as warm as yes- terday. Hamitton Hevse, at Fort Hamitron.—This beauti- ful house and delightful location, is spoken of in terms of the highest praise. A residence there, so con- venient to the city, must be atreat indeed to those who can enjoy it during the heat of summer, Mr. Clapp is always ready to do the agreeable in his own happy style, and the view of the Bay and Narrows, with Staten Island, New Jersey, and our own vicinity, forms & prospect not to be surpassed. The Hamilton House is a capital rendezvous from whence to goon a pic nic party Distixcuisuep Annivats.—Among the many promi- nent personages at present in our city, is Major Hob- bie, the efficient and able. Assistant Post Master Gene- ral. Heis atthe Franklin House, where also is T. B. Jewett, Esq., of Connecticut. Covrs pe Soxx1t..—Coroner Walters held an inquest yesterday at Bellevue Hospital, on the body of a labor- ing man, named Samuel Martin, who came by his death in consequence of a sun stroke, with which he was at- tacked while engaged at work in the Second avenue. He immediately dropped to the ground on receiving the stroke, and died in three hours afterwards. An unknown femal died in the New York Hospital from the effects of a sun stroke. which occurred at the corner of Reade street and Broadway. The jury in both cases returned a verdict in accordance with the above facts. Arrempr ot Svicips —A man named Edward Reilly, residing at No. 115 Orange street, attempted to commit suicide yesterday morning, by cutting his throat with a razor. He was discovered as soon as the act was com- mitted, and, by the aid of surgeon, the wound was dressed. Ho was taken to the city hospital. Axoter.—A woman named Mary Moran al tempted to commit suicide yesterday, by takin, of black drop. She was taken to the city hospital. where but little hope was entertained for her recovery. Danornovs Sront.—As is usually the case before the 4th of July, the city is filled with fire-works of every description, any of which are sold by the manufacturers to boys, who are perfectly careless about the firing of them. ‘There is a kind of serpent, which, when fired. it is impossible to tell which course it will take, not un- frequently setting fire to the clothing of those passing, Desides which it ia sure that fires occur from thir kind of sport. It would be well for the city fathers toonact some ordinance by which this thing could be prevented. There are very few cities where it is allow- Wesr Porrt Acapemy.—In consequence of the deep interest felt by the public in the permanency and perpetuity of West Pwint Ac- ademy, since the commencement of the Mexi- can war, we despatched a special reporter, on Thursday last, to take notes of two addresses made to the cadets of that institution, by the Hon. Ashbel Smith, of Texas, and Col. Doniphan, of Missouri, members of the Board of Visiters, de- livered on behalf of the Board. Although some op- position may, heretofore, have manifested itself to this Academy, 1t is believed that, since the deeds of noble daring performed by the graduates of this military school upon the various battle fields in Mexico, where unerring science and military skill not unfrequently decided the fate of the day, little or no hostility is now felt to this noble institution in any quarter of the Union. We have just seen and conversed with Major Lander, of Kentucky, one of the board of visiters, who informs us that great unanimity prevailed among the members of the board, as to the utility and great importance of this institution, in a national point of view. Major L. informs us that the discipline, police, and gene- ral management of the academy are in the highest fessors and assistant professors of the academic board, in the various branches of science taught in this school, are of the highest order; and that their Ingh moral bearing, and the rigid moral code adopted by them for the government of the cadets, would do honor to any religious sect in Chnisten- dom. We say of this institution, as an Eng! jurist said of the British constitution—esto per- petua. Mr. Wesster’s Exrecten Sreecu at Baurt- Moaz.—To-morrow evening Mr. Webster intends to deliver a get speech upon the present political crisis, before the friends of General Taylor, at Bal- timore. This willbe a very important affair, and will inform us where Mr. Webster intends to go during the next three or four years. New England will stand still, until the thunder eloyd, edged with lightning, approaches her borders. ed at all. Religious Intelligence. Caexpan ror Juxr.—18, Trinity Sunday ; 24, Na- tivity St. John the Baptist ; 25, lat Sundy after Tri- nity ; 20, St. Peter Apostle and Martyr, The income of most, if not all, of the voluntary benovo- lent societies, whose anniversaries have been held in New York, this spring, has been considerably in advance ofthat of any previous year, According to the statistics of the annual reports, read at the anniversaries, the fol- lowing i: the present financial state of each of the princi pal societies :—American Seamen's Friend Society, $24- 000 ; Colonization Society, $5.650; Board of Foreign Mis- sions of the P yterian Church, $108,586; 19.438; American Anti-Slavery Society for Ameliorating the Condi- $5.395 ; New York Institution of the Blind. $23.643; ‘American Home Missionary Society. $140.407 ; American Bible Society, $254.87 ; American Tract Society, $237.160; American Board of Com- missioners, estimated at $260,000. Total, $1.120 000 Of the societios of the Baptist denomination, we have the reports of but two, as follows :—American and Fo- reign Bible Society, $31,521; American Baptist Home Missionary Society, $26,136, The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland adopted a petition to the House of Lords ainst the removal of Jewish Disabilities, by a vote of 112 to 5. The following missionaries have just sailed for Afticn in the brig Smithfield, Captain Duff. bound for Gaboon river :—Rev. J. M. Preston and wife; Rev. W. T Wheeler ; Mrs. Griewold ; also, John Wesley, a native youth, who came to the United States two years since. ‘and has learned the art of printing. The Rev. Francis Vinton, Rector of Emmanuel Church, Brooklyn, has been elected to the Episcopate of Indiana, oreign Marine Affairs. Suir or tHe Line Vermont.—It is supposed that this great ship of war, which has been for so many year+ (some 30) boxed up at the Charlestown Navy Yard, will be got ready for launching by August or September next. A few of timbers were found to have rotted, but generally she is in good condition. It is probable that she wil: not be employed in any other way than as a receiving ship, the expense of keeping such large ships in commission being very great.—Boston Travel- ler, June 16. Bann Avrorson.—We received, inst night, a letter from the passengers of the bark Autoleon, on her re- cent paraage from Rotterdam to this port, to Captain Cobb, expressive of their fvelings for the great. kind- ness and untiring exertions extended to them while on hoard that vessel. The letter is written in o feeling manner, and is no doubt eet and most sincere regard for Movements of Distinguished Gen. Cass visited the theatre et Buffalo on th ing of the 14th inat., and afterwards home pepe ee the steamer Hendrick Hudson, and arrived at C! land the next day. A RE SA aI TAS TO NL EEOALN ttt CONT tne acinar Ne mnt emmsmonseste wt Sermons atten eno Senn cm , Viste to the Milftary Academy at West Paint | aware of the momentous accession to our country in ~The Encampment of the Cadets—Ad- ee pes SE yp ik vests is on ic. ur various climes dress of the Hon. Ashbel Smith, Col. Donte | (7 i34 Ing needed for support, defence, conve- phan, dic. &c. nience, cor and luxury, A fact hitherto unexam- ‘The annual examination of the Cadets of the United fa on thi heme! has Cee? rt a great way, has facuished enormous quantities of pro- States Military Academy, at Weff Point, was brought | ,. for kato in foreign countries, snd besides this, to a close on Thursday last, on which occasion, the pd [ wb “jae lentes of food, in national ves- field exercises in particular, were of an extremely gra- | Y¢ls, to the starving poor, in a land 3,000 miles from our own shores. Such are the resoui f il, titying character, and elicited the admiration of all | the industry of our people. Our Comntey i Nt es who had the pleasure of witnessing them. The day ty Ans Laveen pie apeg by mighty rivers, suit- ardatadinlhook, able for internal navigation, rendering it eminent) gore Dae fons While the sky was almost | sdupted to commerce, In the bosom of our mountalay less, a fine breeze swept over the beautiful plain, | and hills are repositories of coal sufficient to burn or parade and camp ground, orer the ‘habitable carth—and of iron, to supply Th ber of ext al population. I will not stop to speak of our ric! eee rere a ne large—for what with | ines of silver and gold—the Inexhaustible fisheries on famill 5 very section of the | our coasts—nor of the thousand other bounties where- Union, who had taken up their summer residence with | with a benificent Providence has blessed the country we the worthy and gentlemanly host of the West Point orate Beguine tr the sun. It is indeed a Hotel, and those who were called together by the ex-| labors, the service of our lives to develope its resources amination and attendant exercises—the display of | snd to defend it against foreign aggression, should we beauty and fashion was such as to occasion surprise to | Pe hereafter attacked, Larger populations and oven one who had been used to think of West Point as a sort of retired spot—a pretty rural resort. Among the | discordant in political {ns tutions, heterogeneous in race. they have been held together only by the vigor of ae ge’ Ahad not » fow that were present to share| o*utrovolitan government, or the strong atm of in the triumphs of @ brother, a son, or cousin, or | military force. Such governments must crumble to friend, who had passed the severe ordeal of examina- pleces— they have no permanency, they are destitute of tion, and come out with flying colors. ‘The dear crea. | the clements of adhesion. But broad ais our land, have mo the elements of greatness, but also of perpe- ae u yond any other people on the face of the while good looking young fellows, in cadet grey and | oof, “But ifwo may than’ God, inall humility, for the big buttons, did the agreeable in the best manner ima- | country we occupy, still more have we reazon ginable. to rejoice in the institutions under which we About 8 o'clock, P.M., the officers of the Military | live. Im our form of government we are patticu- Academy, cadets and those sojourning at the hotel, assembled in the chapel, to hear the addresses of the | selves, not derived from others, and that they served asa model to other nations, ‘This force of our example {s revolutionizing all Europe at The cadets took possession of the pews on each side | this momént. The success of free institutions, of self- of the middle aisle, leaving those along the side aisles | Z°Vernment in this country, the staring fact’ of the , ‘American nation carrying on a war, and at the same for the accommodation of the numerous visiters who were present on the occasion. After the execution of several favorite national airs, the Hon. Ashbel Smith rose and delivered the follow- under a single government; but dissonant in language, one in institutions, homogeneous in race, Not only also—for they fairly danced and skipped about for joy lar} that thelr institutions were original with them- Board of Visiters, and Col. Doniphan. broader territories have hitherto been held together tures not only gave tongue to their rejoicing, but feet, wills Harvadt an ars ont pecots, Gy ay opatn Tenguness happy. It was the of the Athenians Hon. Ashbel Smith, of Texas, the President of the time feeding the starving poor of the old world, is pro moting the extension of republican government. with a force and rapidity hitherto unknown. Why, it is but yesterday, as it were, that France swept away the last vestiges ofa monarchy which, with slight interruption, had existed for more than a thousand years, to make way for a republican institution, in the main derived from our own. (Tremendouscheers.) Young gentle- men of the academy, you are now on the threshhold of life; but perhaps the absurdity of monarchy and aristocracy has never struck you adequately, Turn Jour eres to this academy. It is a perfect republic. dard bearer of the | Honors are awarded to those who win them. The ac: d chivalry—the representative of the military | demic staff is composed of gentlemen who have distin- nd ekill—of his immediate fellow citizen guished themselves by their proficiency here, years gone gregate of the whole country. While you oc- | by. Suppose for a moment that the distinctions of cupy ion of high distinction, you will also re. | the academy were awarded, not to merit, but were member that you have assumed vast responsibilities. | Conferred us a birthright—that the officers were select: ‘You have read that in in the palmy days of | d, not for their acquirements, but that the professo that glorious republic, those citizens who had rendered | Sbips were the hereditary birthright of former profes: important services to the State, were supported at the officers, What would be your standard of expense of the same. To bo maintained at the public | Cellence? And yet the absurdity is scarcely greater cost was justly deemed the highest honor, the amplest | than that of heriditary monarchs and aristocrats. reward that could be conferred on a citizen for illustrl- MN ay ef i bi ous public services. In our country, im this, the great- est republic of modern times, and destined, we trust, to obscure the renown of all past ages by a truer glory in the diffusion of the blessings of free institutions over countless millions, a new and a wiser system has been adopted. You have been selected and are main- tained at public cost, mot for what you have done, but what you are todo; not for deeds of great benefit to the State already performed, but for services which you are expected hereafter to render. By entering this academy and decuming the recipients of the thorough instruction here imparted, you have incurred the most weighty and solemn obligations. You have no longer the privilege of common citizens to live and die obscurely. We are in the house dedicated to the service ‘of God. When a child is brought to the baptismal fount here, his sponsors and himself assume vows which consecrate him forever to the ser- vice of God. Here, in these halls of the academy, dedi- cated to the acquisition of military knowledge.you and your friends take vows which bind you forever to the special service of your country. It is true that the bond you signed on admission requires but eight years, but the obligation isin honor and honesty erpetual ; you cannot be absolved from them. Hnnibal was taken to the alter at nine years of age, and there sworn to eternal vengeance t the ene. mies of hiscountry. At th tars of military science you are sworn to be in anespecial manner the defen- ders of your country. For this purpose you are selected from more than twenty millions of people—the eyes of more than twonty millions of people are upon you. Not to perform the duties devolving upon you to the ut- most extent of your abilities,would be essential dishonor —to abandon ‘them wholly, is disgrace. By becoming members of the Military Academy, you soon become members also of that numerous and gallant corps, the officers of the American army.» Those officers, most of them graduates of this Academy, have won imperish ble renown in the war with Mexico, just terminated. Your relation to them is somewhat peculiar, as I shall presently show. In the long range of history, I have read nothing which parallels the campaigns of the Rio Grande and the valley of Mexico. for the brilliancy and rapidity of the victories and importance of their results. Palo Alto, Resaca de la Palma, Monterey. Bue- na Vista, Vera Cruz, Cerro Gordo, Contreras, Cheru- busco, Molino del Rey, Chapultepec, Sacramento, and the city of Mexico; why, these very names, from their number, would confuse the memory. but for the bright glory which gleams over each one of these great battle elds. Rome and Greece, in their most daring and brilliant exploits have been rivalled if not surpassed. Scipio burned his ships on the coast of Africa.to render a retreat of his army hopeless. Not from rashness, but deliberate valor, impelled by the smallness of his com- mand, we see the gallant Scott close his own com- munication with the sea coast. When he left Puebla, the curtain closed on him and his army for nearly two months, We lost sight of them — We trembled, but we were not afraid. We knew the valor of the soldiers, and that that valor was directed by officers of most accomplished science and approved skill. It was to no furious and un- disciplined valor that the thinking men of this coun- try trusted. The science of West Point Academy was there represented in some of her most honored sons, At length. the curtain which had concealed them rose, and unveiled Contreras and Churubusco. Swiftly follow- ed the victories of Molino del Rey. Chapultepec. and the city of Mexico. Beyond these bloody battle fields we beheld the star spangled banner streaming over the great city of the Aztecs—the city of Mexico had fallen before the science and skill which were taught on the very ground whereon we are now standing. We have glowed with enthusiasm on reading the retreat of the ten thousand Greeks to their own country after the battle of Cunaxa—two thousand miles, through deserts and over mountains covered with snow—as recorded in the immortal narrative of Xenophon, their commander. ‘That wonderful retreat was more than rivalled in the ex- pedition of the Missouri volunteers, under the gallant Col. Doniphan, Threo thousand five hundred miles, through trackless deserts, and over mountains covered with eternal snows, that gallant officer brought his com- mand safely to the His was not a retreat, however; his progress was onward, in pursuit of the | of satiating savage vengeance—originating with barbs nemles’ of hls coustry.. I need not you that, | Tians, it parteok of all the flerceness of its origin; bu wherever he encountered the enemy, he was victori. | in the rapid march of improvement in government, in ous. That gentleman, who allows me to claim him as | *cience, in morals and religion, it has become a my friend, has avowed to me the great advantages he | seience—a very complicated one, indeed; indeed, it is derived during his march from the scientific skill of off- | ® combination of all the sciences—the proper officer is cers of his command,who wore graduates of this acade- | not only master of all the precise sciences, (if | may my. Was I not right in saying that these officers of our | Use that torm) from the first elements of plain arith- army have covered themselves with imperishable re- | metic to the most sublime problemsin astronomy —but nown? But wherein is your condition peculiar ? You, | his learning must be varied, indeed, almost infinite. who are now coming after them, have to sustain the | There is scarcely a branch taught in the whole range great renown which they acquired. In the event of | Of learning. from the study of which he may not de- any future war—which God grant may be forever | rive great advantage. He should have a correct know- averted—I say, in the event of any future war, if you | ledge of military, international, and, to some extent, of come short of their great achievements, disgrace will | municipal laws. Indeed, he cannot fail to find ample be your portion. You will be required to come up to | necessity for such knowledge at every step. He has the measure of their glory. The campaigns of Mexico | not only to settle questions of moment of interna- will live in the undying memory of the country. The | tional jaw, arising with neutral nations, and with valor of the actors will be recorded in history and | the citizens of neutral nations, in the preliminaries of chanted in song. Think not that victory and defeat | treaties, in every armistice concluded—in every truce are the sport of chance. War is now a problem on | or capitulation—but a knowledge of diplomacy will also the black board, which science solves. To. You, young -useful, if not i le. And the great ge- gentlemen, the question is, will you learn to solve it? | neral who plans campaigns, should not igno- If you would do 80, you must here lay the foundations | rant of political economy; he should fully un- and acquire much of the knowledge which will enable | derstand the recources of his own, and the you to solve it. But other victories were gained by | enemy's country, the products and supplies, these battles—victories at home over ignorance and | the points from which they must be obtained, as well prejudice. The batteries of Ringgold and Duncan, | as the means and cost of transportation. In addition which mowed down tho ranks of our enemies in| to this ample store of useful knowledge--paradoxical Mexico, mowed down with their uncrring aim the e as it may appear to the superficial observer—the use- mies of this academy, in their own country. (Loud | ful officer should be endued with every Christiaw vir- cheers.) The academy has fought itself into favor at tue. Patient in sufferin, ea rine deat thirst, home; the science, skill, soldierly deportment and valor | fatigue, scorching suns, Plorcing colds, drenching rains, of the graduates of the acadomy, have gained a great vic- 7 or pestilontial diseases ; all must be borne, and not only if ver the prejudices of the ignorant among our own | borne without a murm ut with su heerfulness itizens. But it is nots permauent, final victory; the | as to dispel all gloom from. his companions afd fol- battle is ever to be fought. On you it will devolve to | lowers. He should be generous to the weak hum- continue this battl® against ignorance and prejudice; | ble, magnanimous to the fallen, obedient to superiors, and how great will be your disgrace if you be defeated; | forbearing to inferiors ; exacting proper discipline, , under your immediate auspicos, if | may so speak, | without tyranny or oppression—alive to the best inte- the academy be driven from the high vantage it now | rests of his country, ever making his own interest only holds in the affection of the nation, But, gentlemen, secondary, and ondued with a philanthropy that speaking in behalf of the Board of Visiters, we have no | neither the carnage of the battle-field, nor the savage fear. We have diligently attended the examina- | warfare of enemies, shall steel to the cries of sufferin, © witnessed your field exercises on the and h humanity. Women and childron, helploss infancy and plain; they have filled us with pride and admiration. more heipless age, can never appeal te an American Gontlemen of the graduating class, the Board of Visi. | officer in vain. Remember your country wars with ters embrace you as worthy and capable of the high | nations, not with individuals—she never revenges na- juties you are about to enter upon. a ve intimated, | tional wrongs on private citizens, (Cheers.) ntlemen, that you are, in a peculiar sense, the sons| (Col, Doniphan, at this «tage of his remarks, became of the people; that. by entering this academy, you | so unwell that he was obliged to suspend them for a ort period. On eee a from his faintness, he ob- ed, that it occasioned him greater embarrassment to appear before such an audience than it would to meet the enemy on the battlefield, which drew forth the most unbounded applause, He then resumed as follows:) | Do not deem it arrogant in me to tender some advice, rather personal than professional. In addition to all your attainments, do not ws to adorn your minds with elegant accomplishments of polite literature. No- thing has a more chastening influence than classic learning, ancient and modern, These sublime roductions of genius liberalize the mind elevate he feclings, and give n proper direction to the ambition. They teach you to despise that low and grovelling ambition, or thirat of praise, (the bane of the lower ranks of all professions) that seeks to detract from superiors, to decorate itself with stolon plumage | would not have you unambitious, however—virtuous ambition is ever to be cherished, and by nene more than nsoldier, It is the parent o' noble’ dee [pace ‘to fame and distinction by deeds —not gby detraction; that ambition hich in content with the achievement of gréat ends, and modest! awalts its reward—not that morbid ambition that 1! accompanied to the flold by # hired corps of lottor Cadets of the Military Academy:—Your condition is a pe You are emphatically th 8 of the people. I see assembled in this hall, young men from every Congressional district of this mighty republic. In one point of view, each one of you is the representative of his district. cted as you are, in the The proficiency you have made in your studies, as- sures the Board of Visiters that you have comprehended and will do your duty. * * * * Gentlemen, your career is now before you ; you wi to attain the highest honors of your profession: Rely on yourselves. Sometimes political friends can Pre jou advancement in lineal rank, but it is only eminent services which can give you great and real rank among your countrymen.— Gentlemen, every action of your life, every’ aspir: tion of your heart, should be fér the honor and ad- vancement of your country. Bestowing thus your lives on your country, you will receive a praise that will never decay, a sepulchre that will be most illus- trious—not that in which your bones shall be moulder- ing—your bones may whiten on a foreign strand; they may moulder in Mexico or other lands, or happily be brought home to be entombed in your native soil— yesterday—but your names will be remembered when- ever the discourse is of honor, glory, and patriotism, and your true sepulchres will be in the undying grati- tude, the eternal remembrance of your country. [I'he speaker here made allusion to the burial of Colonel Bg a graduate of the academy, who died in Mexico, and whose remains were buried yesterday with funeral honors, pointing towards alpetomd tery the allusion was understood by all present. Col. Whi pple was amemberf the class that gradu: ted in 1835, and died at Perote about a year , Of disease contracted during the campaign in Mexico. His remains were conveyed to West Point for inte ment in the cemetery, in accordance with his own d: Ha he Clad Mr. Perley Whipple, and Miss Whipple, of Warren, Mass., brother and sister of the deceased, followed his remains to their lasting resting place, to which they were consigned with military honors. Nore by THE cae eeaall Th ENT of the Board then said:—Gentlemen, ‘ou will now be addressed by another member of the joard of Visiters, Col. Doniphan. I will not discredit your intelligence, nor do injusticeto the reputation of the gallant gentloman, by an attempt to inform you who Col. Doniphan {i Col. DoxieHan then came forward, and after making an apology to the audionce, in advance, for any fault which might be observed by them in his mode of de- indisposed, he proceeded as follows :— express the gratification which the Board of Visiters have received from witnessing your examination —not your examination alone, but that of all the classes. I regret that my duties as a member of the Board. and the large number of friends and visiters by whom I have been constantly surrounded, preclude me from pretenting you with an address worthy of your atten. tion, instead of a mere infliction on your patience and test of your politeness, You will, I trust, however, take the will for the deod, look to the feeling which rompts, and not to the feebleness of the execution you have now completed your collegiate course, und are now ready to enter upon the active duties of a profer- sion, that if honorably and zealously pursued, rarely fails to lead to honorable distinction—you have been selected by your country as her peculiar children—you have been educated by her bounty for her interest. and the advantage of your countrymen, and not for the mere purpose of bestowing upon you as in- dividuals, the ‘blossings of this thorough’ course of scientific instructions. That country now looks to you with confidence to fulfil the high’ and ennobling porposes for which you have been educated. Yours js a profession of great labor, although it is a road to honorable distinction—superiority aud renown can only be obtained by industry. Your destiny is to a great extent, in your own hands—you have mas- tered only the elements of your profession. Itis true you have laid the deep foundation of scientific and milita- ry learning, and upon such a basis you can erect the most noble superstructure, You have yet much to learn of military histery, of the composition of armies, of the strategy of war; to learn by what peculiar strokes of genius, great victories have been won, or by what mistake or defect, overwhelming numbers have been #0 often defeated. War was originally a mere means have assumed peculiar and weighty obligations; that you have solemnly dedicated your whole lives to the service of your country. It is pertinent to the occa- sion on which are now assembled, to inquire what is this coflatry to whose service you are dedicated, and what are the ins'itutions to the defence of which, against all forcign attacks, all your studies have reference. all your lives are to be de- the country such as to be worth devoting all tions, to its defence and ad- Are the Institutions—the political insti- tutions under wh'ch we live—so precious to the happi- nese of the twenty millions over which they extend, as to deserve all this watchful care for their defence? It ia wise, I say, to contemplate for a few minutes now, and often in life, that country and thoso institutions of which you aro soldiers We are peculiarly happy in the country which fornjs the territories of this great nation. In extent and physical advantages it is un- equalled, (Renewed cheers.) No nation inan modern times Cd ym Pte! ust a Our country ox! from won regions of North—which have ever boon the eradle of nation: river of population through all the milder and hey ions of the fartile From th frogon loins ot livery, as he was, and had been for several days, quite | Gentlemen of the Graduating Class—By the kind | hospitality of my colleagues, I hiave been deputed to | ates, and my own olservations, satiefy me that many of you will grow weary on our peace establishment, and having formed other and, I hope, happier connections in life, than cold and gloomy old bechelorism affords— (tremendous applause) —from interests—trom conyeni encos, or from uecessity, some of you will retire from thearmy. But your usefulness to your country nevd not be lost. ‘The works projected by the general and State governments, or by the enterprise of corpora- tions, “and private individaals, afford an empleo field for the scientific engineer ; professorehips in colleges—the learned professions—volunteer corps, scientific agriculture, and even the sacred desk, have heretofore re ed valuable accessions from the halls of West Point A wide field of useful- ness is spread before you, in which your energies may be properly rewarded, and your taste gratitied, This institution is to the literary system of this coun- try, what the heart isto the human system. It re- cvives the learning, the discoveries and attainments of all nations through the veins, and having properly di- fe ed and papmiat upon them, sends them forth in ealthful arterial streams to all the other institutions of our country. It thus elevates t! itandard of learn- ing at home. ' Indeed, to use a homely figure, it is the great city clock, by which all the smaller clocks and watches are regulated. But to cay nothing more of the advantages afforded to literature in general, by the lights ef this institution, let us turn for a moment to | that class who denominate themselves utilitarians; who reject or discard every discovery or improvement in science that does not havesome direct and immediate connection with the thrift, the comfort, or convenience of men, What has enlightened science done, and what is she daily doing, to advance these ends? In our almost magic ‘flight from one portion of our splen- did country to another, we scarce stop to reflect how much we are indebted to the midnight labor and vigils of some devotee of science. The rich products of our fertile soil find a distant market, and a rapid and cheap means of transportation, Land has advanced, popula- tion has increased—commerce, wealth and manufac- tures have doubled—cities, towns, and villages, have sprung up. as if by enchantment, under the system of scientific improvement. We view these giant works with astonishment—we admit their utility—we praise the elegant execution of the work—but little of our admiration is ordinarily bestowed upon the labors of the seientifie scholar who first discovered the ap- plication of propelling powers, or made the scientific sur- veys and plans for their construction, A large majo- rity of these works have been furnished with engineers for their surveys and construction, from the halls of this national nursery. If this institution was deemed of great national importance, by Washington, by whose fayor and recommendation it was first established, of how much greater importance of wonders and inventions. ons travel by steam, ow fortunate should we permitted to live in the middle of the nineteenth century. Future ages will be, doubtless, far more ad- yanced—but no uge will ever witness a more rapid pro: gression ; iu none will discovery follow discovery ina more rapid and startling career. Wonderful epoch ! a century is no longer a hundred years; # century of improvement is crowded into ten years of time. Favor- lage! we hold up the mirror of scienco before us, and the whole stream of ancient and modern learning 6000 years, is presented almost at aglance. Con. stantly startling discoveri bursting upon our vision almost lift the curtain that veils the rich store house of futurity. The question is no longer asked how much will yet be discover The question is not, where will discoveries terminate—but the proper ques- tion is, will they ever end? -willthey not be coexten- sive with time? Will not the electric flash that sets the world on fire, illumine some new discovery, as it springs from the great laboratory of the human mind ? This is, indeed, the age of reason—the vast improve- ments in the art of printing, and the rapidity of con- yeying intelligence, have produced a wonderful revolu- tion. Mind triumphed over physical force—the world is now govsenee by intelligence—the impulse that agitates the great capital of Europe, imparts its thrill instantaneously to all others—the sensation in simultaneous. The world is strangely and startingly convulsed—thrones are crumbling—dynasties are tottering to their fall--the iron heel is rob- bed of the power of oppression. Who can tell, in this vast whirlpool of confused elements, what results may be produced? Who can teil in its wild career, but its vortex, widening and deepening, may yet reach our own shores? Who can tell when this threatening voleano may begin to spout forth its burning lava, or from what particular apex? ‘This ig- nitable mass needs but the magic spark to again envel= ope the world in flames. How soon may some meteor, ! more than meteor—some comet come and again arise, which shall roll the lurid cloud of war over the fairest portions of Europe, until the curtain may drop at some second Waterloo? We fondly hope that the murmurs of the threatening volcano may be stilled.and the bright rainbow of peace may span the world. But one truth is clear—we cannot hide it from ourselves. God has decreed that man shall be free—the “ right di- vine” has heard its final knell. But whether this glori- ous consummation is to be attai by the slow and peaceful progression of learning, of civilization, and of Christianity,or the dread ordeal of war and vile nee, He has wisely concealed from man’s feeble vision. But my feelings, perhaps my imagination, have borne mo wide of the object which [ set out to present to you— the excellence of West Point Academy. “The best test of the value of any institution, is to be estimated by its results." The worth of this institution can best be seen by visiting it, and especially at an examination: becoming acquainted with its officers and professor: witnessing reviews, drills, parades, and military ex cises—hearing the classes cxamined—scrutinizing the manner of imparting instr eeing the thorough- | ness of the cours the discipli = tion—the urbanity of its officers and professors, their bright moral deportment and officor-like example. But | without the advantages of a visit the community inay very properly estimate its usefulness by the history of its results, and the war just happily c! Individually , | Ihave had some experience that enables me to judge of the efficiency of many of the officers graduated here. Being connected with the army of the west, under the command of that gallant and accomplished soldier, Gen. Kearny, 1 had ample means of becoming acquaint- ed with many officers who had_ received their military education h not only of the re; rarmy, but in the volunt ithout a military education, myself, and without any actual experience in war, af- ter our separation from Gen. Kearny we were thrown upon our own resources. It was a fearful responsibility, and one that | would gladly have foregone—per-onal danger is a matter of little moment to a soldier, but the lives of a thousand men—young, e, and generous; many of them the sons of my friends and neighbors —the honor of the corps, even the reputation of tho State was in some degree at stake. [ have always deem- ed it very fortunate that we had been for three months with Gen, Kearny and his regulars, Our oficers and men had been drilled by officers of the regular army, before cur departure from Fort Leavenworth; and, like most other volunteer coms mands, we had some officers who had graduated, and some who had been here for several years. ‘To the training received from these sources, I attribute much of the effi y of the column Some of our officers had been similarly drilled in Florida, rendering them more efficient. For myself, | most cheerfully acknow- ledge the great advantages I derived from the skill and attainments who had been more fortunate in their early military education. I feel gratified when I reflect that neither false pride, nor a wanton reck! ni plying to officers of infe as I needed; and I tak with them fully the m: feelings of my country dition. My observation was n column, nor to the army of but, returning home by Saltillo and Monterey, I hod ample means of obtaining correct information of the services of every corps that had been engaged on Gen, Taylor's whole line, Ihave seen regiments and squadrons of regular and volunteer forces, who had been successful above all praise, | saw others, equally brave, who had failed of gaining any reputation. I saw one regiment, equally rave—composed of as good material as any of the moce fortunate—but fallen, dejected; the dark, biack pall of mourning enveloped it—a drapery more melancholy, more sombre, than that worn by the gallant dead. And why were they dejected ? why had they fallen ? braver men never lived—more gallant spirits never rallied be- neath the folds of their country’s flag when the tocsin sounded toarms ; but it was not commanded by Davis, MeKee. Hardin, Marshall, Clay or Fry—ah ! it was not commanded atall. The names of the other regiments are incribed high on the role of fame in letters as brigh and burning asBuena Vista itself. But this js lost, falien forever, for the mere want of official fitness in a single commander. Have you ever contemplated how wide suck « misfortune extends. It is not confined to the wretched commauder—I would to God it we that it is not. [t extends to the galiant yout high hopes and beating hearts, left their happy homes for the hardships and perils of war, It dues not stop hore. However unjustly, the Sstuto is in a degree identified with it. Ah! worst of all, it will bo written i histery of our country. Nor is this atl—it domestic hearth, and inits widening circle it includes the agony of fathers—the crushed and bleeding hearts of mothers Scarce a regiment of volunteers orregulars has failed to sustain the honor of our country in this brilliant war — brilliant from its success, and bril- liant for the magnanimity and clemency with which it was prosecuted—and scarce a corps was without some officers. cither graduated. or partially educated here, But West Point needs no eulogy from me; her sons have pronounced her eulogy—not in words, but deeds. As long ies of Palo Alto, Re la Palma, Monte d Bueun Vis and the gallant ofbers who gained th will need no eulogy, Or. let her worth the results of the campaign into the valle from the first embarkation until the floated from the capital of the most anc cit Axtecs—exhibiting the eagle without its serpent and the enetus exchanged for the arrow and tho olive branch A campaign that will proudly compare with the best campalgns of Marlborough, Frederick, or Napoleon While Vera Cruz, Cerro Gordo, Contreras, Churubnseo, Molino dol Rey, gnd Chapulte corded in Ame- rican history—she will need no eule Tt has fought itself into favor, It challenges the admiration of na- tions abroad; It has put down opposition at home. Even the heartless demagooue has grown ashamed of his opposition, and ceased his querulons eroakings, Proud old institution, the admiration of her f the reproach of her enemies, Hore she stands, firm an unshaken as the granite heights by which she iv sur rounded —esto Berpetee * biography of hor sons hether the gallant survivors, or the lamented lend, {8 her best eule Young gentlemen, [ joint you to that study—emulate them, follow heir bright example living, you will be respected; and should you unfortunately fall, the tears of sorrowing patviollsm wil} oft bhedow your memory, In conclusion, for myself and on behalf of the board, | take this oppor: tunity of exprossing our admiration of tho ¢ agement of the institution, aud to return o f the polite attention of the ofiicery, professors, and in always that the xpe- my own ice wri things into grent Suen, eres We gt ti mt joua folly (as | ppl cadets during our visit, Col. Doniphan then retired amidst the most deafen-