The New York Herald Newspaper, December 31, 1848, Page 1

THE NEW YORK HER NO. 5324. Our German Correspondence. Berwin, Nov. 21, 1848. Present Aspect of Affaws in Berlin—Hopelessness of any Successful Resistance on the Part of the People at present— Acquiescence and Assistance of the Central Government at Frankfort—Pro- tests and Petitions from the Different Provinces and Cittes of Prussia, ogainst the Government Measures—Excitement in the Rhine Provinces— Apprehended Disturbances in Silesia—Refusal to Pay Taxes by the National Assembly at Breslaw —Drsarming of the Burgher Guards. The sudden transition from red-capped radical- 3em and mob sovereignty to the dictatorship of a military government, has taken place here, in the couree of the last few days. The reign of the bayonets and cannon has been proclaimed in this city, which, but shortly ago, was the scene of mob manifestations and rows. The outward appear- ance of this capital, at the present moment, resem- bles that of acamp. An army of twenty-five thou- sand men, besides the troops previously stationed here, 1s quartered in the city; and the numerous patriots and troops traversing it, in every direc- ion, the strong guards of soldiers, occupying the gates and public buildings, and the number of eol- diers lounging in the streets, give it an entirely jlitary and warlike air; nevertheless, the pro- eae peace and tranquillity prevail throughout. Nowhere, any resistance or opposition to the measures of the government is offered, nor 1s it probable that any attempt will be made to do so. The means now at the command of the govern- ment, and the military forces ia and around this city, are more than sufficient to render everv resist- ance on the part of the people hopeless. The cer- tainty, also, that the government is determined to follow up the desperate course it has undertaken, would leave every attempt at resistance without the least prospect of success. _ The government here, likewise, 1s backed by the central power at Frankfort, in carrying out the coup d’etat \t has ventured. The rumor circulated that the imperial commissioner, Mr. Bassermann, who was sent here on a spectal mission from Frankfort just before the recent measures of this government were adopted, had declared the acqui- escence of the central power in such a course of policy, is, I am enabled to tell you on the best au- thority, founded on truth. The central power had sent Mr. Bassermann not only to make assurances to tne government here that the measures since carried into effect would be acquiesced in by the central government, but also that the Prussian go- vernment might rely on receiving every assistance from the central power necessary to support those measures. Twenty thousand Hanoverian troops were promised to be sent to reinforce the Prussian troops, if it were required, at a moment’s notice. But the forces of the Prussian army, the greater part of which had been previously concentrated in the neighborhood and around this city, are, it would seem, more than equal to evercome any re- sistance the capital might offer to the measures of the government. Although the last measure, de- claring the capital in a state of siege, created the utmost excitement, and a general rise of the popula- tion at the time was apprehended, still the very suddenness with which the measures of the govern- ment succeeded one on the other, aad the powerful ane brought Imo action against any resistance offered to those measures, prevented and in fact rendered every opposition impossible. Entire pas- siveness was the policy at once adopted by the capi- tal against thoee steps taken by the government to suppress all further revolutionary muvements here. After the prouress made since March last on the couree to li iberty, matters at the present moment appear to be ata stand still. But we will venture to eay that the present state of things cannot lagt long. It is true that all political migbts have been abolished, all political clubs and asseciatione are dissolved, public meetings prohibited, and the press suspended; but the very severity of these measures make their continuance impossible. |The govern- ment will’presently find itselt ina serious dilemma. The public opinion here, I can assure you, as well as in every part of Germany, condemns the policy the Prussian government nds adored im concert with the central power. Physical torce, however it would seem, might be able to maintain that po- licy, without public opinion. But in that the go- vernment will not be mistaken. It is aware that it will be impossible any more to stand against public opimon at present, and that it 1s dependent on it. ‘The addresees sent in from the different provinces of Prussia, asking the withdrawal of the measures adopted by the government,are daily becoming more numerous; many of them formally protest against the course undertaken bythe government Petitions of the authorities of some of the principal cities of Pruesia, to the same effect, have been presented already to the government. Deputatrons from the town councils of Breslau, MagdeSurg, and other cities, have been sent, to urge the government to yield to the many appeals of the country. At the present moment a deputation of the town council of Cologne, which arrived here yesterday, and had an audience with the King, 1s demanding the withdrawai of the measures of the government. Other deputations are expected to arrive soon. The state of the provinces, in consequence of the steps taken by the Prussian government, is alarming in the highest degree. The Rhine pro- vinces, itis believed, will, without a single ex- ception, declare themselves against the policy of the government. According to the latest accounts from Silesia, the excitement prevailing there had much in- creaved, and serious disturbances were expected to teke place at Breslau, the capital of that pro- vince. In consequence of the National Assembly here having resolved to refuse the payment ot taxes, until the measures of the government should be withdrawn, and the mintstry at Brandenburg re- moved, the payment of taxes has been withheld in many parts of the kingdom. The government has been obliged to threaten with coercive mea- sures to enforce the payment. A ministerial de- cree, issued yesterday, orders coercive measnres to be used wherever the payment of taxes is with- held. The legality of the resolution of the Na- tional Assembly, refusing taxes, is denied by the government, as the Assembly had been prorogued by the King, and all the resolutions passed by the branch ot the Assembly which had continued their deliberations 1n this city, have been declared null and void. Since the day before yesterday, the Assembly had suspended its sittings, after it hod been several times dispersed by the Leta and its deliberations interropted. Tne branch o' the Assembly which remained here, consisted of about 250 members, principally belonging to the “Lett.” They are still determined not to leave this city; and it 18 generally believed, since ves- terday, that the King wili dissolve the whole As- sembly, and cause a new election of deputies to be made. The disarming of the Burgher Guard has taken place, in perfect order. The citizens having at first refused to deliver up their arms, wagons were sent through the streets to receive ihe wea- pons, which the soldiers were ordered to demand of the citizens, and, if refused, to force them to surrender. All arms, however, were delivered recalled. Tyrol, itis said, will follow suit, and, in short, nearly all the German part of Austria is decidedly mclined to the same opinion. [t will, therefore, be seen that Sclavonian interests are de- cidedly in the ascendant, and atew months may see Austria, as a Sclavonian empire, taking a deci- ded stand epainet Germany. The Austrian Diet has ae assembled in the Archiepiscopal palace of remsier, and to the great surprise of all,+the Poles and Germans have elected their president in Opposition to the Tchecks of Bohemia. The ex- ecution of Robert Blum, of Leipsic—the demi-god of the radicals of Germany, and the only man capable of disputing the palm with Hecker—has laced Austria in a very different position towards Saxony, and stirred un a teeling of revenge illy calculated to advance German mally The contest of Vienna has indeed been the most fatal one to German interests, aad it is so much more to be regretted as it was undertaken for the third party, tha: nas proved itself uaworthy of the sympathy displaved for its cause, by refusing to stand by these who had taken up the shield for its detence. Hungary seems to play the part of tyrant or victim alternately, and the day has come, I fear, for 18 subjection; the immense force directe: against it, leaves no doubt as to the final result. The Austrian army, in five different divisions, has so completely cut the country off from Europe that but little 1s known of the state of the interior ; but itis said that the Hungarians, rather than yield, will follow the plan of the Russians at Moscow, and burn their own cities, rather than give them totheenemy. But Europe hasbecomeaccustomed to a wide difference betweea the promises and the deeds of the Hungarianggand little fears are entertained either of great conflagrations or hard fighting. Nothing 1s more surprising than the cun- ning policy of Russta, in all these movements,of so much importance to her; instead of jumping right into the heat of the battle, as was supposed she would do, Russia keeps at adistance, and watches the slightest phase of every movement im Europe, without really intervening; she hangs her sympa- thiesin the form of decorations around the necks of Radetzky, Windishgratz and Jellachich, but saves her powder and ball for a more _provitious moment. Russia poasesses the most skilful diplo- matists of any country mm Europe; and while other governments are exalted or humbled by the breeze of the moment, she remains cool and calculating. When the other nations will be exhausted with in- ternal convulsions, her calculations will be made, and nothing will remain to be done but to act, and that will be done with vigor. The Russian tyrant, no doubt, longs to make the plains of Germany the battle field for his serts. It is generaliv supposed in Germany that a secret treaty of alliance be- tween Russia and Austria and Prussia already ex- iste ; but this is doubtful, and party feeling runs so high that it is hard to tell whom to believe. At least one halt of what appears in the journals is absotute falsehood, and com- mon sense is about the only judge that can approach the truth, after wading through the accounts of the same story, given by the contend- ing parties. Onthe whole, therehas been much less cruelty and horror in the various combats al- ready fought, than is generally supposed. Tie horrors committed by the Vienna populace and students, as related by the conservative journals, equals the effort at theatrical effect. as displayed ty the radical sheets in dishing up ‘Windishgratz. he reality isbad enough; but, for the sake of hu- manity, 1t would be weil to remain at that. The Aseembly at Frankfort has had a tragic fate, so far; Lichnowsky and Huswer Auerswald nave been murdered; Blum has been shot; Froebel con- demned to be hung; some half dozen accused of hightreasor, others turned out, etc. It is sad to think that, after all these storms, there is no pros- pect of serene sky inthe distance. The Assembly is now “dragging its slow length along,” and diecussing the question of coine, weights, and measureg, while he contest at Ber- lin is threatening to despatch it without a sigh. The central power here is neither with nor against the King and Cabinet of Prussia ; it opposes two of the measures of the King, and one of the As- sembly, and 18 endeavoring to act the part ot me- diator. The principal political worthies of Frank- fort are travelling to Berlin, and then travelling back again—the result is, thateach one gives a pert favorable to his ona party, denying, point ERR OTE BERT Woe Sus SOMONE AE Meal cron worse confounded. In this dilemma, the whole Parliament has gone to Berlin, in the person of Von Gagern; and the noble character of this true patriot 18 atleast a guaranty that the Frankfort Assembly will arrive nearer the realtrath. The contest in Prussia is one of lite or death for the crownr and were it not for the hasty resolution of the Assembly in Berlin to refuse the payment of taxes, 1t would probably have gained the victorp. This meaeure, tending to pure anarchy, at least ia the opinion of 11s opponents, has produced a strong Teaction, and the very cities that applauded the first movements of the Assemoly against the King, now desert that we and protect the crown and the ministry. In Silesia, where it was supposed thot the King would receive no support, the population are offering voluntary gifts to the government ; the women are even offering their jewels, to their very wedding rings. Indeed, the reaction seems to be gaining ground to so great an extent as to leave little doubt that the King will maintain his position and force the Assembly to meet at Brandenburg, as the Emperor Ferdinand has removed his to a provincial town. The year 1848 will be memorable for the im- mense number of cities placed in a state of siege. To the long Jist that have already figured, Middle Germany now adds Dueseldort and Erlurt ; the shores of the Baltic have Marienwerder; and Gratz, the capital of Styria, has determined not to remain behind all the other capitals of the con- tinent. Experience hag introduced one great im- provement, namely—the declaration of a state ef viege on the mere cian of a bloody contest; thereby avoiding it. This measure is at least on the side of humanity, it prevents a mass of bloodshed and cruelty. The Assembly at Frank- tort have resolved to have a solemn funeral cere- mony, in commemoration of the memory of Rebert Blum. Several members have been appointed to make the necessary ariangements, and the people are expected to turn out In a mass to pay a tribute of respect to their great tribune. Similar ceremo- nies have already taken place at Leipsic, and are expected 1m other cities. They of course all tend to throw gall into the contest between Germany and Austria, and hasten the day of a final rupture. It is said that the wife of Blum, having gone to Vienna to reclaim his body, found that it had been dissected. This must be false; andas the news 18 given by the most violent socialist sheet of Ger- many, it may be attributed to an over-heated ima- ginauion. Indeed, I am of opinion that injustice is done to Blum’s memory by the manner in which the socialists take up his cause. Blum was an ardent republican; but he never was a socialist, and was by no means the leader of the extreme action of the Assembly. His shade may well exclaim, “ Save me from my friends !” Panis, Nov. 30, 1848. Affairs in France. Marshal Bugeaud 1s, at last, elected a member of the Assembly; aleo, the son of Marshal Ney, and Napoleon Bertrand. Jerome Bonaparte, the ex-King of Westphalia, would have been up without resistance. Frankrort-on-THe- Martner, Nov. 26, 1848, Interesting History of German Affatrs. The yolitical condition of Germany has become so perfect a labyrinth that even the wonderful thread of an Ariadne would be altogether power- lese, were it to undertake to lead this ill-fated coun- try toahaven. Circumstances and prospects change £0 rapidly, that to-day has not the remotest idea of what the morrow will bring forth, and Germany, am its politics, may ve literally said to live trom hand to mouth. The Parliament of Frankfort, convened to give a form ard a constitution to Ger- man unity, is obliged to waste its force in efforts to settle the quarrels of parties in the individual + Stites, thereby weakening its influence as a whole, aod conjuring up new enemies on questions that ahoulcl in reality remain foreiga to itsdeliberatione, Tam serry to say that the conviction 1s now forces upon ane, that German unity is impossible, and that a few anonthe will see the total dissolution of the Franktest Assembly. The recent events of Vienna, and the present crisis in Berlin, seem likely to give it a mortal blow. In Avetria, the party Ge to the annex- ation with feaeral Germany has gained a perfect triumph, not with the sabres of Windishgratz or Jellachich, but 1.9 public epinion, |The members of the left--the,ver,V radicals who have raised the terrible storm now ray7ing 10 Austria—have decided that a closer connexion between Austria and Ger- many thana mere treacy of defence and offence, 38 utterly impossible, Triste, the marn port of the chosen, also, had he not positively declised ; as it was, he had many votes. There were but four or five vacancies to fill, and all these elections look towards the election of Louis Napoleon to the Presideticy. I have said, that, under the new im- pulse given to General Cavaignac, it would seem to be impossible that Napoleon could heve the abso. lute majority required ; yet, the manifestations of the many look that way; and I shall not be disap- pornted at his election, nor in his defeat, for the data are not very certain upon which any very ac- curate opinion can be formed. While the govern- ment has all the officers, patronage, Xe. ec, to aesist General Cavaignac, it has the weight of the present state of business to bear up against ; and, under such a pressure, the outs have as great an advantage, perhaps, as the ins, Yesterday, the course adopted by France, to- wards the Spanish refugees, was discussed in the Assembly. Complaints were made against the government, that the refugees arrested on French soil were delivered over to the Spanish authorities, and copies of three papers, found upoa them, forwarded to the Spanish tribunals,for their conviction. These allegations did {not appear to be well sustained ; but it did appear that the French authorities were vigilant upon the borders of the French territory, in presenting armed or- ganizations, with a view to enter upon Spanish ter- litory 3 and that the refugees were generally ordered away from the frontier of France into the interior, but were not?delivered over to the Spanish authorities. The Minister remarked, that, by the laws of nations, they might even de- Adriatic, has refused to be represented in Frank~ fort; and Corinthia, Carmola acd erie tare pe- tittoned to have their members, now 4 Frankfort, liver them te Spain, but that 'rance chose not to doso, although the Spanish retmgees caused France a good deal of trouble, and an extra oe SUNDAY MORNING, DECEMBER 31, 1848. service and expense, All the despatches of the French Ambassador, at Rome, are published ; by which it appears that a new ministry has been formed; that the,Pope is at liberty; but that he was constrained to consent to the formation of the present ministry. The objectofthe new ministry, asim their programme appears. is an Italian contederacy of allthe Itahan states. But I will remark, that next to the Spanish, the Italians are the most incompetent people of this age tor self- government—that as a steady, regular, and firm government, the Spaniards are incapable of any government—monarchial or republican—and in a few centuries, the race, asa nation, will be ex- tinct. Their system of government 1s one of mu- tual oppression, robbery of public funds, assassina- tion, and civil war. The Italians of the present age are much too nearly allied with this Spanish system of government—both people are lazy, idle, and incompetent, to a certain degree, beyond that of most of the other nations of Europe. Yet, in many parts of Italy the peopleghave fought heroic- ally ; and the above remarks are to be limited to certain arts of Italy, and to certain classes of the lower orders of the people—although, among the Bak classes, there is a good deal of bravado; w ich pre‘er to enter into an insurrection to join- ing any army in actual war with the enemies of their country, Had the Italians entered into the war in good faith, asa whole people, and acted, instead of talaing, and passing resolves, and staying away from the scenes of danger, Charles Albert, incompetent as he and his officers were toconduct a campaign, could have prevented Radetsky from entering Milan, or re- gaining his losses. MM. Pyat and Proudhon, the one a Montagnard and the other the chief of So- cialists, have made two attempts, at least, to fight a duel; but the police has restrained them. But the ndidule of their conduct 1s too severe for them to withstand,withouta meeting. Evidently Monsieur Proudhon does not like the odor of guapowder as wellasthat of socialism. The Mo-tagnard shows himeelf ready to accept a challenge,though his had been rejected. Both are members of the Assem- bly. The Mentagnards are socialists ; fight each other more violently, if possible, than they do the tri-colored republic ; aul sould these wild men come into power, they would cut each other’s throats without hesitation. Three new cases ot suicide yesterday ; two or three aday. One half nearly, precipitate themselves from their windows upon the pavement; a considerable number destroy themselves by burning charcoal in their rooms. — The French are excessively nervous. A young girl loses her ‘‘ amant,” as such gentlemen are here called; she commits suicide, because she thinks that she shall be deprived of the means of subsist- ence; another, for wnnt of a small quantity of money adopts the same course; and yet, [ have been through the poorest parts of the city, and have never seen a “nl or a person that -has not been well clothed and had good shoes and stockings to wear. No person in Paris suffers, if 1t 1s known to indi. viduals or theofticers of the city. Paris 1s chari- table—eminently. Hovsron, (Texas,) Dec. 3, 1848. Trade of Howston—Hotels—The Cotton Crop— Po" pulation——Prices of Provisions— Murder, &c. This is the business season, and will so conti- nue during the month of January. The prespects of this place have been checked somewhat by the epidemic which raged the past summer; it com. menced very early, and continued its ravages until mitigated by cool weather. Notwithstanding the disease yielded readily to proper medical treat- ment, great raortality prevailed, particularly among the Dutch population. By the Assessor’s and Collec- tor’s reports, last year, Houston contained upwards of 4,700 inhabitants; out of this number at least one- fourth have been sick, and as near as may be esti- mated, 200 have died. There is no disguising the fact, that a distressing ma'ady has prevailed. The origin is yet a matter of dispute among the ‘‘sa- vans.” Some think it was brought by two sol- diers frem Vera Cruz; a majority are of opinion that it originated here. The bayou immediately in front of the city, is filled with logs to supply a saw- Tie. *VCFy fitdle or Maly ab"Wteaiea as paia fo cleanliness. The streets, yards, dc. are most filthy. These local causes were, no doubt, of themselves sufficient to engender disease, and if imported they certainly encouraged it. Property 1n consequence has depreciated in value; several families and store- keepers are preparing to Jeave, to seek a residence in what they consider a more healthy region. Since annexation, this place has improved; only one brick store existed at that time. Since then twenty-three have been erected, large and commo- dicus, with many convenient and handsome pri- vate residences. The amount ot goods sold last year probably amounted to $1,500,000; this year tales willnotbe as great. Inanticipation of a large crop of cotton last year, merchants beught very heavy stocks of goods; but the low price of cot- ton, in connection with the failure ef the crop the preceding year, impoverished the planters, pre- venting them and the country storekeepers from peying up old accounts, and reduced their means. ‘The consequence has been that most of the Hous- ton merchants have been compelled to ask indul- ence of their creditors at New York and Boston. Hed we a bank here, and their notes been made payable atit, many of the heaviest merchants would have suffered much in credit, for they could not have met their engagements; as it is, I don’t know how it affects them; but after the coming spring, nous verrcns. i The cotton crop this year is large—nearly equal to the past season; prices are ruinously low, and several Jocal causes operate to the injury of this city. The merchants are very industrious, and attentive to their paiticular business; but as yet have done little or nothing to preserve their trade from finding another chanae}. Nothing been done to improve the roads from the inte- rior, and at the rainy season, which is usunily the buriness season, they become almost impassable. As soon as the navigation of the rivers Brazos, Tnnity, &c., is improved, most of the trade will Antutalty find its way to Galveston. The people of the Jatter city are intelligent and enterprising ; qut, from causes beyond their control, Houston 1s, at present, in the ascendant. ; e have six churches—a Catholic, Episcopal, Baptist, Presbyterian, and two Methodist—a!l well attended ; no court house, jail, hospital, or public school ; several hotels, the most conspicu- ous of which aie the Houston House and the Oid Capitol. The former, named after Gen. Houston, has been for seme time the leading house. It is situated in the business part of the town, and kept by Wilson and Fulton. The Old Capitol, an edi- fice erected for and occupied by Congress, 18 situ- ated a tew squares above, and is by far most Be santly Jocated; and when under the care of the owner was well and neatly kept. {t has been taken by Brewster and Kellem, late of the Houeton. ae There are so many religious societies and sanc- tified folks that amucements of all kinds are dis- couraged, and out of favor. It is difficult to get tid of a spare dollar—if one has it-unless it be to spend it at a tea party or fair, to raise money for church purposes. a Rents and EM he high, and many of the luxu- ries of life notto be had. Beef is the only cheap article—sells in market from 2 to 4 cents per Ib. Other meats high : pork 10c.; veal ie. Irish potatoes $3 to @5 per barrel. Vegetables scarce and high. Wood $2 per cord. Milk 10c. per quart. Butter 25 to 40 cents, House rent, from 10 to $75 per month. Store rentsdo. A small jouse, with two rooms and a kitchen. rents for $15 per month, Servants’ wages $10 to $12 for women, $15 to $20 for men. | r The county court is now in session, but its pro- ceedings are without general interest; several divorce cases, assaults and batteries, c. A man by the name of David Alien, an old Texan and one of the Mier prisoners, who, for several years, has been a great rowdy, even in these parts, shot Wil- tam Jones, an Irishman, a tew days since, ina bar-room. Allen had been in the habit of taking from the different drinking and eating houses that he was accustomed to visit, whatever he wanted without paying; if refused, he would draw a pistol upon the proprietor, and help himself to what he wanted. Knowing the desperate character of the man, this had been for some time submitted to. Oa the occasion reterred to, he was refused liquor at the bar, and, as was his custom, presented a pistol ond threatened to shoot the bar keeper. Jones oe friendly to Allen, and a magistiate, endea- vored to pacify him, when poor Jones received a ball in his heart, and died instantly, Court being In session, the grand jury pemeey found a bill for wilful murder against Allen. His trial was fixed for last Monday, but he managed to swear it off till next term. In the meantime, for want of a prison, the sheriff, a very kind hearted and humane eae h a8 him and another man by the name of convicted for an aggravated avsault and and eentenced to three months imprison- , in his awn chamber at the Old Capitol, feast- Fo on the beet the house affords, comfortable le, Xe. Interesting Sketches from Funchal, Unitep States Suir Enre, Funcnat, Oct. 28, 1848. From Fayal, our last port, I addressed letters to several, detailing the more prominent incidents of our cruise from New York to that port, and I have Row an opportunity of continuing the narration to the time of our arrival here. We had a passage of ten days from Fayal to Madeira. But to re- sume my journal from the close of my last letter, when we had just sighted the bluff coast of Fayal. ‘WESTERN ISLANDS. These islands are nine in number. They are sometimes known as the Azores, a name hestowed by the original digcoverers, on account of the num- ber of hawks seen hovering over them. At the time of their discovery they were deemed so im- portant an acquisition to the crown of Portugal, that the reigning monarch went in person to take possession. I should suppose that they contained in the aggregate about 160.000 inhabitants, a num- ber far less than they might be expected to support four hundred years after their original settlement. They are under some degree of cultivation, but are said by those beet acquainted with the subject, not to produce one-tweotieth part of what they might be made to yield under a better administra- tion of government, and a less imvotent race than the present possersores, The pedple appear to be the descendants of F'emish and Portuguese adven- turers, and I am inclii ed to believe, to some extent among the lower classes, from Moors subjugated and transported into slavery. They are artless and inoffensive, and 100 peaceable to chafe under the yoke of bad government. Fettered by the con- tracted colomal policy of the fifteenth century, obsolete among most nations, but still adhered to by, Portugal and Spain with suicidal tenacity, the original inaptitude for political and commercial pro- gress hes grown into an aversion for change. A distinguished writer on chemistry asserts that the civilazition of a people may be measured by the quantity of soap annually consumed, and [ may seek my illustration fromthe kitchen and farmhouse, without off nding the dignity of the subject. The household utensils and the imple- ments of husbandry are those of their forefathers, The cart—the sole vehicle for transportation in town and country—is interesting asa relic of pri- meval times. It 1e{a plain box, lashed to a rovoly- ing axle; a pair ot solid wooden wheels, without tires, are fortified by the heads of large spikes plented round their circumference ; excavating the roads and tearing up the pavements when turned round by sheer force, grating and creaking with the rotation of the axle, it 18 as painful to the oxen ae it is to the eye of the stranger. The walking habit of the females reminds one of the pictures of an auto de fe in Fox’s Book of Mantyrs. It isalong blue cloth cloak, hangin, frem shoulders to feet, without a fold, surmounte by an enormous hood of the same matenal. As the size of this grotesque head-dress is a token of the fashion of the wearer, it will occasion no sur- pure to state that it is measured by yards and not y inches, and 18 only limited by the pecuciary means of the owner, just like the bottoms of the pantaloons in fashion, when I lefthome. As the cleak is worn for the style, it is never dispensed with, summer or winter; and doubtless answers just as well for the one as the other. When fairly wrapped in this envelope, to the tull capability of the garment, the handg, the feet, and the face are invitible; and as they move along with stately steps, you only discover a walking cylinder, topped by the flaps of this expanded head piece; and as the kead turns for observation, without disclosing the face within, you are renunded of a locomotive funne), surmounted by a huge wind vane. The tout ensemble 1s that of a broad-axe sheathed, handle and blade, 1n broadcloth, It is a garb more favor-* able to macquerade thai {6 movements, and may be regarded asan indication that the wearerdoes not care tc be recognised; and this tallies with the suppo- sition that the style was imported trom the coast of Afnca, where it is said that beauty is thought to be no ornament. Although the custom mieht har- monize remarkably well with the morale of a place where the wearers found it convenient to elude the watchful eyes of husbands and fathers, I have not been informed that itis used for. ann aribrer ror and other produce of the islandsis contraband; and as this policy offers a premium for short crops and femine, there has been considerable sucgess in obtaming them. The manufacture and sale of tobacco is a menopoly of the government, and, of course, is largely smuggled. The same is true of the cutting ts valuabe kinds of timber, which, like our live oak, 1s rendered scarce, frem depre- dations. Some other staples are excluded, by the imposinon ot prohibitory duties, where it cannot be assigned to any policy, unless it be a disposi- tion to repress and discountenance commercial enterprise, or a nalrow jealousy of the prosperity cf foreign merchante, who have attempted to in- troduce such articles. A few years ago Mr. Dab- ney imported a cargo of ice, as an experiment. The new article met with a ready sale. The en- Jarged views of the government immediately de- creed a duty of $20 perton. Ofcourse no more ice wes imported. ‘ The fruits uf restriction and monopoly are a aralysis of commerce, scanty revenues, incredt- bly low prices for labor, and a general decline of indust'y. The wages of a woman of all work are aidollaeaemicatns ot a soldier, eight cents a day; and, yet they maintain a tamily, and lay up money. . The inhabitants were formerly compelled by law to confine their trade to the port of Lisbon; but the languithing condition of the islands suggested a relaxation of this restriction, so as to allow of a wider range of commerce. Jn epite of a perverse and sadly misunderstood revenue system, and the character of the people so uncongenisl to mercantile pursuits, still a prolific so1l and genial climate, the central location, ad- vere the fruits of the tropics w.thir four days sail of England, convemience of resort for supplies end refitting, andthe good quality and cheapness of the wines and other produce, all conspire to ccmmand a certain amount of commerce. Fif- teen to twenty thousand tons of wines and fruit are onnually exported to England, anda tair pro- portion to other countries. Besides the exchange of the staples of our country for wines in the regular trade, there isa respectable ready money and bar- ter trade with our whalers, who are encouraged to resort here for refreshments. The geology ct these islands, especially of St. Michael’s, 18 very interesting, and presents the grendest results of voleanic action. The who'e turfece ot the country, and even the bed of the ocean, have been broken up. Mountains, torn {rem their bases, have been hurled into the val- leye, or ewallowed up in the bosom of the earth. About forty vears ago, a submarine volcano, after a violent commotion, Iifted its crater upon the sen, and after a short time, entirely disappeared. The eye is coneequently gratified by the greatest diversity of grand and pleasing scenery, craggy messes cleft and channelled, dizzy preeipices and haunted ravines, are associated with spots of the most soft and qmiet beauty. Con.cal hills, barren and seamed with sharp ridges of Java, lilt their heeds, crowned with extinct craters, to overlook luxurieat slopes clothed wih vineyards, pastures, groves of fruit, and gardesis of aromatic plants. This letter is go long that I will leave my next for a more patticular mention of Fayal Cavaianac’s Tutor —Collt ge sometimes causes tingular copnectionsin this world. M. Vatout was a graduate of thé College of St. Barbe, as wae also General Cavaignac. M. Raspail, who has been nominated to the Presidency by the Socialists, and who is, in consequence, among the least for- midable of the General’s competitors, exercised, tome thirty years ago, at the same college, the functions of instructor in the post of those the stu- dents call pions, and he was the pion to the student Cavaignac. Who would then have foretold to them that they would ever encounter each other in such rivalry, and thatthe poor pion would, one of these days, dispute with the modest scholar for the first power and the highest office inthe go- vernment of France ke Fire at Saco, Maing.—There wasa destructive fire at Suco, on the 22d inst, by which considera- ble property was destroyed. James Fernald lost | building and stock, the latter valued at $3,000; meurapce $1,200. Stacy & Brothers, of Boston, a building, ocenpied by Mr. Hall, who lost $3,000; insured for $2,000, Mr. Brackett, corfectioner, in- surance $300; W. Noyes, printer, insurance $400 ; Noyes & Warren, shoe dealers, loss $1,400, insu- rance $700; L. O. Cowan, Bookseller, &e., loss $8,500, insurance $1,200; Dr. Cushman, druggist, 0e8 $3,000, insurance $2.000; Adams & Whittier, lose $3,500, insurance $2,500. Dr. Bacon owned one of the buildings burned, which was insured for $200, and the Saco Water Power Company one, on which there was no insurance. The following persons were also losers by the burning of fara ture, or damage to goods by water or removal :-= Mr. Hill, Miss_C. Hanson, Messrs. Bowdour, EB. 8. Goodh: F, O. Staples, H. Pike, Mr. Frink, J, Mason, and T. J. Murray. Ho! tor California, [From the New London Chronicle, Deo, 29,] vaTic —The verseln now advertizad and fitting for California from this port are the sbip Mentor, a largeand 1, owned by the Mesers. Brown, in great for- with a large numberof cabin an repgers and a full freight engaged. Int! Geo. W. Brown will embark himeelf, and she will carry out some of the most active and energetic young men in the coun’ She will be capitally manded by Capt. Howal rate whaling master of long #x- perience in the navigation of the Pacific, will be fitted out in complete order.in all respe: Th mack Mary Taylor, of nearly ninety tons burthen, goes out, excellently well commanded alao, and will de manned by s joint-stock company of first rate men, who will not fail of finding gold, either by diga’ or otherwise. before they come back The schooner Velasco. another first rate vessel, will soon with, a joint stock company, of the “right ‘ort,’ from Groton, who will come home “high hook” in the gold line, or we are very much mistaken in the men. The schooner-emack Mount Vernon is also adver- tised, and will rail under equally favorable auspice and next, we bave the schooner Heroine, of whic! staunch vertel there is no danger in saying “ditto.” In addition to there, the # kk Sea Witch, of this port, is fitting out for the “gold coast,” from New York. The ehip Trescott is fitting out at Mystic with tho utmost despatch, by Mr. av ores whose business cha- racter is sufficient guaranty of the energy with which the enterprire will be conducted, ‘The ship will be commanded by 8 man of experience, and if the ad- venturers of the Trescott do not bring home their full thare of the golden fleece, we have overestimated the qualities of the Argonautes. That is all. There is likewiro a large schooner. of something like two hun- dred tons. ‘up to California,” from Mystic. This vereel is fitting out by a joint-stock company and will railroon, Whether other enterprisus of the sort ere in contemplation from this neighborhood, we know not, but we dare say there may be. Success to them all! [From the eens Argus, Dec. 29.] The Troy papers mention. with regret at partinz with an enterprising and valuable citizen, the intended departure for California of the efficient and popular con- éuctor on the Troy and Greenbush railroad. 1). B. Groat, Erq. The Kingston Republican has an account of a part- ing supper given to two young men of that village, P. H, Van Buren and John W. Shaw, who are soon to leave for the same destination They ge, not as gold diggers. put as mechanics, well provided with the toole ef their occupation. Among the incidents of the affair, was the prerentation to the enterprising emi- grants of a pair of revolving pistols, [From the Boaton Courier. Dea 20 ] The bark Carib, Capt. Webb, of New Bedford, cleared yesterday for California, via Sandwich Islands. Capt. Legus, formerly master of the Carib. goes out as mate, and Capt. Paren Howland. of New Bedford, as recond wate, Her crew hipped for a voyage to San for one dollar per month. One of them is countryman, over six feet bigh— ‘able of Yankee growth. She carries out eleven pi She bas a cargo of clothing, bread, dry goods, provi- sions, spades. shovels, brandy, rum, &c.,—in all valued at over $24,000, 4 [From the Boston Transcript, Dec 20] The ship Edward Everett, belonging to the Boston and California Joint Stock Mining and Treading Com- pany, ebipped her crew yesterday, consisting of sixteen men and three mates The foremast men have all heretofore acted as mates, They go the voyage gratis, considering their rervices le: money. Besides these, there are seme eight or ten ip who belung to the com- loyed, during the time the company sre at the mines, in conveying passengers from Pansma to the gold region The company con- nists of 150 effective men, 76 of whom are mechanics, all to be well arme ich with a rifle and re- d accoutrements to act, in case of omergen- t Indians or marauders. Success to the ex- The rules and regulations, to which the company have submitted themselves, are of a charac- ter to insure the utmo:t efficiency in their operations, and correctness in their conduct, Passages in ships to California are now offered for $150. This is dog cheap for a journey of reventeen thousand miles. The brie Acadian, late Halifax packet. has been pur- chared for $5,800, by « company about to proceed to California, y: pedition ! New Orveans, Dec. 1843. The Mexican Spy Company—-One of owr Hard Bargains. Much was said, during the war, of the “ Mexi- can Spy Company.” Its history, which may not be generally known, is briefly this: —When Gene- ral Worth entered Puebla, he found necessity for daring despatch-bearers, well acquainted with the so aed wha ili was at the tite “Uaisgerdill RAEN etake apd bctter perform it than those whe had been accus- tomed to the road? The very man presented him- self in the person of Dominguez. He had been, itis said, for many yeers, a robber, famous for his “ tricks upon travellers” between Vera Cruz and the capital. He was, at the time, either in prison, or had entered Puebla, emboldened by the pre- scence of our troops; certain it 18, that most of those who afterwards composed his band, were taken from the calabooge, where they had been confined principally for robberies and other crimes requiring for their commission much daring, and involving great personal danger. Theee dare-devils were organized into a sort of independant company, and received by General Scott. low they were paid is not clear ; but itis supposed, out of the contributions or taxes levied on the inhabitants. They entered the city of Mex- ico with ourarmy. After the conquest, and before peace was declared, they made one or two journeys ficm the city to the coast, carrying despatches and a mail, and thereby rendering very uselul ser- vice. Of course, on the conclusion of peace, Mexico was no home for them, and they accompanied our army to Vera Cruz, and thence to this city, They were sent to the United States barracks, in the rear of which they have been emce encamped. On their arrival, Domin- guez proceeded immediately to Washington, for the object of obtaining some provision in land or bounty for his men. Nothing was eflected during the Jast session. A visit to their quarters, a few evenings since, shows the greatest discontent and diseatistaction on their part. They charge Domin- guez with having taken and appropriated to his | own use, alarge amount of money belonging to the company. They accuee him of a total neglect of their comfort and interests, and declare that he shall no longer command them. His own conduct gives some color to their charges; for, on his ar- rival in New Orleans, a few weeks since, from Washington, he did not even take the treuble to visit, or ecarcely to inquire after the company. There are ebout twenty women, wives of the cflicers and privates, and they exemplity all their m des of life, in cooking, eating, and living, gene- rally. We find them making “tortillas,” discover their Jarders filled with garlic and peppers ; and notwithstanding they are rationed with pork and beans—not tpeir beloved “trijole”—and other com; cnents of Uncle Sam’s rations, for which they have a boly aversion, it would seem that they by some means contrive to convert the same into their-national dishes. Whether they regret their course OF not, it is useless to mquire now. They have sacrificed all, received and encouraged by us, and, though as precious a set of scamps as Mexico could possibly have produced on the most rigorous search, they bave been our allies—we have pro- fited trom their treason, and I do not see how we are to escape the obligation of providing for them by grants of land, or in some other manner, ‘Ene y have received no pay since June last, and were quite destitute uptil General Brooke, a short time ago, oidered the distribution of clothes among the m—a full euit each, for winter, They probably were never so well clad, and while the garments continue new,will doubtless think this a great county. On the approach of cold weather, these people suflered seriously, and were filling the hoapitals, when the,mediecal officers at the barracks represented their condition to General Taylor, who at once directed the Quarter master to prepare houses for them, supply them with stoves, &c. They are now quite contented, But at best, these are poor, miserable beings, who can- not return to their gent They are very anxious to eett!e on this bank of the Rio Grande; and Lam not sure but it would be the best disposition we could make of them. They would form a hittle colony, and would make as good citizens as hua- dreds of their countrymen who now reside and vote in Texas. It 18 hoped Congress will con- sider their case at an early day. ¥ The interpreter attached to the company gives glowing accounts of their activity and success in plundering on entering the city. The jewellers’ thops rifled, the bankers’ houses and brokers’ cffices robbed, according to his narrative, pro- claim them a truly “independent company. However, he declares that there was active com- petition between themselves and another certain independent company of Americans, so called. The Taylor ¢ neaster, Pa. have used the sur; their ing 500 yards of muslin, which they have given to dies’ Dorcas Society, for the benefit of the poor of the ity. ited States Senate from ud both have been ec members of the House together. TWO CENTS. Sr. Louis, Dec. 13, 1848. Close of Navt gation— Trade— Politics—Balle, §e. The upper tributaries are closed, and the nver opposite the city is filled with running ice, which has rendered the navigation to the mouth much more dangerous than 18 usually the case in a low stage of water, from the fact that the ice covers and obscures the snags, 80 that pilots are unable to see and avoid them Great execution to boats is anticipated from ‘ Polk Stalks’ before the re- tirement of the great impediment which operates at present against safe steamboating on the west- em waters. Active business is at a stand-still, and likely to continue so, till there is a general resumption of the navigation. The mills and porkhouses of the city are the only branches of the trade which are not seriously aflected by the present state of the weather. They are busily at’ work; their supplies of wheat and hogs are met by wagon receipts and drovers from the neighboring country. The mania tor office under the coming adminis- tration of “ Old Zack” is on the increase. The “anxious bench” is crowded ; and, to keep the “old breeches” clique from raising a muss, back teats have been promised. A meeting was held by the “Orginal Taylor i a last Monday evemg, to invite General aylor to visit this city, on his way to Washing- ton, a committee was appointed (a_number of whom are known to be keen for office) to wait upon him at his plantation and press the invitation. he old hero wall, doubtless, respectfully decline acceding to the request. ’ The whigs are up and doing for the spring mu- nicipal elections; the old feud which has ter some time existed between them and the natives has been settled; nor are the democrats asleep. So, notwithstanding the big election, just past, we have some sport in prospect. An ‘upper ten” masquerade-takes place at the Concert Ilall to-night. Late rrom Mexico.— The Spanish brig Gertrude, Capt. ‘dano, arrived yesterday trom Vera Cruz, having sailed on the 6th inst. By this arrival, we have papers trom the city of Mexico to the 2d inst., and from Vera Cruz to the 4th. Tho Monitor Republeicano of the 2d ingt., de- votes its leader to the threatening aspect of Tam- pico. Notwithstanding the protestations of loy- alty on the part of the authorities and principal citizens of Tampico, the editor proclaims aloud that there 18 a nest of traitors in Tampico whose object 1s first to establish the republic of the Sierra Madre, and next to annex the same to the United States. The editor reasons plausibly on the sub- ject, and warns the nation and the government that the question concerns the nationality and in- Hen of the republic—more intimately even than the Texas question—and demands that the govern- ment should make an energetic effort, andgnip the project in the bud. We have details of the military operations against the insurgents of the Sierra. Although the latter are always put to flight, yet no decisive ad- vantage 18 gained over them which promises to put an end to the controversy. It is in some aspects much lke our Florida war, and promises to be endless. The merchants and people of Tabasco are petitioning the government to spare Bruno, the adventurer, who has kept that State in difficulties for many years. The news from Durango, of the ravages of the Indians, 1s of the most misera- ble character, There 1s a report in a Zacatecas paper, of the 2lst ultimo, that General Paredes 1s in San Luis Potosi, lying perdu, and that he is preparing there for a mento. A meeting of claimants upon the Mexican Trea- | sury was called at the palace onthe 7th inst. The Monitor asks it the building 18 large spar to hold them all. A conducta of specie was to leave the city of Mexico on the 2d inst. for Vera Cruz- A plan is on foot to light the city of Mexico with gaz. The papers sull record many robberies and other crimes, but occassionally acts of speedy Justice. Three scoundrela, whose names are giv- en, broke into a house in Guadalajara and mal- treated the inmates. They were arrested. brought hours. ‘The National Guard of the city of Mex- ico 18 repent to be in a totally disorganjzed state. Jt is the subject of numeraus para- staphs in the papers, and is evidently looked upon gs a very eerious matter. We have looked through the papers with some curiosity, to see 1f any mention was made in them of Yankee gold digging in Califorma, but see not one word on the subject. Gen. Carrera, ex-presi- dent of Central America, and of Guatemala, has established his residence in the Mexican State of Chiapas. Look out tor revolutions from this quar- ter. Dates to the 25th of October have been re- ceived from Guatemala. Los Altos and Guatema- Ja are in open war. The troops of the former were defeated in an engagement on the 21st of October, at Sen Andres, with the loss of their commander- in-chiet, and other persons of note. The punish- ment of death has been decreed against Gen, Cor- rea, should he return to Guatemala before the re- establishment of constitutional order, Various tyrannical measures of the ex-president, relating to the treedom ot the press, monopolies secured to himselt or his family, and the like, have been ab- rogated, and new laws passed, better to secure the equal rights of the people. We have no room for the details, Murper or tHe O’Neat Famiy In Overton County.—One of the most extraordinary cases of murder was tried ip our Supreme Conrt a few da: a since, that has ever been brought under legal investigation, Pateey A. Troxdale, Nicholas Stevens ‘m. E. Upton were indicted and convicted in Overton county for the murder of the O'Neal family, consisting of the father, mother and five children, embraci family except Pateey A Troxdale, who wasa daughter ofold O'Neal. The three defendants were all found guilty of murder in the first degree, and sentenced to bung. Upon appeal to the Supreme Coart. a new trial wae grapted, mainly upon the ground that one of the jurors had formed and expresred an opinion as to the guilt of the parties before he was chosen as a juror. It appears from the record that the murder was som- mitted in Overton county, about the Ist of September, 1846. The defendants were implicated solely upon circumstantial evidence. Edward O'Neal, the head of the family, was of violence, and addicted to in- temperance. He iving in the mountains with his wile and six children— they we: surpicion exists 0 the murder having been commit- money. The proof shows that Pateey A Trox- living with ber father at the time; that she irl of easy virtue, end that the family did mot live in the utmort barmony; but no very serious ani- wority is thown to have existed between the daughter ond her father, and none whatever between her and the other memberr of the family. It reems that the defendants, Stephens and Upton, were on the premia- ¢s.in company with Patery, in an out house, on the night of Friday. and nothing is showm to have occurred. afterwards tbrewing light upon the transaction, until Sunday mornirg. when it was discovered that the houre in whieh O'Neal thin discovery wae m vpen exemination t | and thelr five childr other under the floor, sbout two years old, at a fatheron the top, Theb and legs of the old m ‘ere burned cff— the other bodies were much burn’ be skulle of the cbildren were broken and mashed, as fwithanexe, Inthe yard an sxe was found with blocd and hair upen it” Pateey was present when the houre was discovered to be burnt, and in conversation with rome of the witnesses she told where her father #nd mother and brothers and sisters were, and that they lay inthe bole Her account was found to be correct. Several articles of clothing and other chattels were found im an out-heure, having been apparent removed frem the dwelling be: it was burat. There are some of the leading facts in theoase. Such & murder seldom occurs A father and mother, with five children. sre murdered jn cold blood, deposited in a hole under the floor, and fre ret to the ee A daughter is charged and convicted ot thie horrii crime. aided by Stephen d Upton. The Supreme Court have granted a new and we hope that more Nght may yet be thrown upon the horrid transaction. Judge Ti delivered the opinion of the court in the have seldom heard #0 eloquent an opt in our courts —Nashville Union, Dec. 21. Domestic Miscellany. Legislature Pp will assemble at Herrisburg on Tuesday, January 2d. The New Jersey Legislature will convene on the Sth of January. ek the notices of applications to the Legislature of New Jersey, is one for a charter to construct a rail- livered road from Lambertville to New Branswick, via Ringoes and Millstone, with @ capita: of $500,000, There j happy and flourishing Sootch settl in Walton county, Florida, 80 miles Brown University is making an effort toraise $50,020. for » fund, the interest o: 1s te be applied to ite support. The whigs of Louisians are to hold a State conren- tion at Bator Rouge, on the second Monday of May next. for the nomination of candidates for Gorernor and Lieutenant Governor. The Rockford (1) Furum (whig) etrotgly recom. ments W.B Ogden, of Chiergo, fur the U, 5, 3+ gaia, _