The New York Herald Newspaper, January 29, 1851, Page 6

} @ur Washington Correspondence. W asuin@ron, Jam. 25, 1851. ‘The Presentation of 1. Virgina “ Gold Medal” | to General Scott. This day, at eleven o'clock, the Virginia * Gold Medal” was forma'|y presented to General Scott, in the City Hall, ia the preseace of a considerable umber of spectators, \:nong whom were several members ef the Cxtioct, the Virginia delegation @f both houses, and so ue other members of Con- gress. There was a's. o fair sprinkling of beatiful Women in the conuregition. Gen. Scott came forward, accompen'i hy several aids, and in full uniform. Mr. Burs: |i, one of the committee of five sent op by the Vivginia Legislature with this testimonial, made « speech to the General con- cerning his Mexies» ca npaiga, and the pride with which Virginia regard» the heroic deeds of her ehildrea, and theo presented the medal. Gea. Scott replied, com)! se )ting the Old Dominion for her glorious devovieu ‘» the Union, and gratetully accepting this mos ftiatiering evidence of her re~ a@pect, Kc. The sj«cches were in writing, and will be printed otficisi» The medal is 34 inches in diameter, five-»ix ‘reaths of an inch thick, and as, of course, very 1 id rich. On one side is an admirable | + tof the General, with the words “ Wiutirid Scete” im capitals above. ‘The bust stands up... «1 odlong pedestal, flanked by two noble eaules, sprigs of laurel and oak touch- ing their wings, & wuher of flags, (two Mexican banners among them ) guns, pikes, mortars, and field-pieces formmy an appropriate background. On the pedestal is th: following inscription: “ The Commonwealth of Virginia presents this medal to Major General Wiutirid Scout, as a memorial of ‘her admiration for thr yreat and distinguiahed ser- vices of her son wtilst commander-in-chief of the American armies in the war with Mexico, _ On the reverse side in the centre, stands a beau- tiful fluted column, with ‘+ 1812” on the bese, and ** 1845” on the cajisl. A spread eagle, holding an olive- branch iu 1\+ mouth, is on its top, and the column is entwined wish leaves of laurel, inscribed with the words * Vers Cruz, Cerro Gordo, Con- treras, Churubusco, Del Rey, ‘Chapaltepee, Mexi- co.” Above the column are the words “ Fecit Quod Cogitayt;” below, **From Virgimia,” and = Care eee with the coat of stm of the ‘State. the background ure the princi ildings in or near the city of Mexico, the Castle of San Juan, (as we take it,) with the peculiar and strikingly peaked mountains, batteries at work, &c.—tl Whole encircled nv a verv rich wreath of laurel and oak intertwined. The medal is one of great beauty and magnificence, and does ay credit to the exquisite skill and taste of Mr. C. C. Wright, aa old soldier under General Scott, and now of New York. Wasuinaton, Jan. 25, 1851. ‘The President's Levee—Observations in the Crowd, Political ana Phrtosvphical—Movements for the Presidency, § What is a President’s levee? It is a miacellane- us gathering at the White House to see his Ex- eellency. What is the programme? You go up— go in--follow the crowd, till you get to Mr. Fill- | more, shake hands with him, bow to Mrs. F. and Miss F., pass on through the adjoining rooms to the East Room—move round with the current for several turns, or drop off into an eddy, for more deliberate observauon of the fashions, and when | | and even Bodiseo keeps himself uni scarce, pay jealous of the fave: with whieh ‘Henry received. Croswell, of the Argus, the run of the establishment. Steamships are the secret. Good many young office seekers here; and did you mark how mechanically th- officeholders were received? That's the imisforune of office- holders. ir simcerity is reg d as bosh, though no men are more sincere in their desires to be considered indispensable to the government. = BHT and let us go. God bless us—what a dull jusiness ! Affaire at the State Capital, OUR ALBANY CORRESPONDENCE. Avuany, January 25, 1861. Appeal Court Reporter. The failure et the late Governor and Lieutenant- Governor to re-appomt Geo. F. Comstock as re- porter of the decisions of the Court of Appeale— whoee term expired on the 28d of December—or some other whig, has caused, for a small affair, a large amount of bickering between the sections. The law creating the office wasenacted by a united whig legislature, giving the power to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General, all three of these offices being then in their own hands. Mr. Comstock’s term expired while Gov. Fish and Lieut. Gov. Patterson were yet ia office; and as in duty bound to the party they should have supplied the vacancy by the re-appointment of Mr. C., or the selection of some other geutleman of the party. But those gentlemen suffered their terms to expire without filling the vacancy; and! have the autho. rity of a whig paper for the assertion that “ Gov. Fish was willing to re-appoint Mr. C., but Lieut. Gov Patterson swore that no Fillmore man should have the place; und in that determination he per- sisted until he left the office, though he knew tha’ a democrat must, as a consequence, be the succes- sor of Mr. Comstock.”” Thus, a violent stab was by Mr. Patterson upon the party to which he owes all his political importance. Mr. C. came to the city, and by all the influence which he could bring to bear, implored the thea Lieut. Governor who was in the city also, duriog the last week of his official existence, to re-appoint him, but without any effect, and his term expired, leaving Gevernor Hunt, Lieut. Governor Church, and Attorney Gene- ral Chatfield, to fill the vacancy. The gister stated ene reason why the appointment was not made was, because Mr. Chatfield refused to meet Gov. Fish and Lieut. Governor Patterson. This is no reason whatever, because those two gentle- men, consti‘uting a majority, could have ided the question without c iting Mr. Chatfield. After the first of January, the power of appoint- ment departed from the whigs. Thena score of applicants appeared. The candidates, after a con- test of ten days, all withdrew, or were driven off, with the exception of Mr Godwin, a friend of Mr. Chatfield, and Mr. Selden, the favorite of Judge | Gardiner. The contest between them was very | animated. Neitherthe Judge nor the Attorney | General would yield an inch While this state of things existed, Mr. Benedict, a whig gentleman of the House, Introduced a bill amending the law, by making the Governor the speission power, and the Sepate to confirm—thus it cing the office again in the hands of the whigs. ‘his movement drove the other gentlemen to action, and Seiden was fiaally selected by Messrs. | Gardiner and Chatfield, without the approbation | of Governor Hunt. Since then, we have heard nothing of Mr. Benedict’s bill. Mr. Comstock, Jou have enough of it, evacuate the domicile, and depart in peaee. Is that all? That’s all. We will give an account, however, of the levee of Fri- ay evening last, as it passed under the review of¢ acouple of men of some observation. Time—9 o'clock, P.M. The White House, to-night, is like Tara’s hall— there is no inetrumental music on hand. Taking oft those marines is reducing the “levy”? to its deanest proportions. Never mind the music, but @et into the current, and keep your eye on that small door. ahead. Now look sharp—all ht. The Presi- dent, you see, is forutied by Mr. Wallack, the Marshal of the District, who introduces all stran- mye to bis Exceiimucy Wailack weat in strong or old Zack, aud he was remembered for it. Why, [ thought Watiack was a Democrat. Oh! | no—that’s Dug—this is Dick. The family is divi- ded, so that whichever side wins, they can’t lose ia the aggregate--a very judicious arrangement. Dick is the dewtues', but Dug is considered the best politician of the A—The Presiaeat He is cut out exactly for this establishment; the office site upon him «as gracefully as his coat. ‘Wonder if he does not expect a lease of four years | on his own accvuui! B.—Hard to say Parties are split u ‘what is (0 come out o' The prospect appearst be highly favorabie for a scrub race aad five cand - dates. A Union wnig candidate-~1 Union demo cratic candid: Free soil candidate—a Southera ultra, and Gener: out The J’resideat’s in there. Push | not eausfied with being thue ousted, appealed to the Appeal Judges as to whether himself or Selden was the legalized reporter; and was informed that, | as the certificate presented to the judges bore the | signatures of a majority of the gentlemen consti- | tuting the appeinting power, they coaside: Mr. | Selden asthe reporter. Thus stands the matter | at present, although it is said Mr. Comstock in- | tends to apply for a writ of quo warranto to test | the question—upon what grounds, however, is not divulged. | Axvany, Jan. 25, 1351. The Code in Danger. The lawyers in the Legislature manifest a deter- | Miaation to reject a large portion, if not the entire | report, made to the Legislature of 1850 by the | Commissioners on Practice and Pleadings. While | the subject of referring it to a committee was dis- cussed in the Senate, on Thursday, the report was attacked with much force and ferocity by Mesars. Jobnson, Mann, and Schoonmaker. The latter gentleman referred to Mr. David Dudley Field, | personally, as “‘prowling about the Senate cham- | ber,” endeavoring to induce the Senate te appoint a select commitiee to examine the report, and invite his attendance during their sittings, to ex- plain and elucidate any passages which migh £ | be considered obseure or unintelligible. Mr. S quoted the following paragraph from Mr. Field’ pamphlet, distributed on the desks of Senators | and considered it a piece of insolence in Mr. F. to ask ap association with a committee of the Legis- A.—Aud whose caudidate is Scott to be? 5B --Lverybody’s. He i to run oa the Vid Zack plan, withoutapiatform. The free sotlers, to some extent, Seward amoag them, will support him, if he runs without 4 plattorm; but if he has a plat- form, he must cut Seward and company, and that operation will give New York, Ohio, Vermoat, and aseachusetis, dc, to the democrats. But, by running without « platform, the chance: i proved for gatheriug up ail the loose materi: Old Zack did. Seward thinks that Gen. Scot's aplendid stock of military capital will do, without umbrance of « platform. And the under- @tanding is, that the old General is to stick to Chur- | ubusce and Chapultepec, and to eschew all letter wriun, A —That will do. Make your bow to Mrs. Fiil- More aud daughter, and let us pass through this suite of litle rooms of seven by nine, to the East room, for a turn round with the dear people. Ah ! gee that elegant gr yuud- shaped young looking entlerman, with bi able lady upon his arm al ¢ wears the brilliant siat of some royal order. Her Britannic Majesty's representative here, Sir Henry Lytton Buiwer, brother, by a transposition, to Sir Edward Bulwer Lywtoa, and the conafiden- tial adviser of Onatticid down there in Ceatral America. What they are gomg to make out of that busi does not appear; but you see he is completely at home with the President and his family fe 1a the complete diplomat in bis man- mere and address; and in that winoing cordiality of conversation, which settles, often, the knottiest uestions, after oceans ot bloodshed have failed here is some reason co fear he is pulling wool over | the eyes of our cabinet respecting the proceedings of Chattield. But let us paseon Very full house here, to night; but not a great deal of beauty—too much “ paie face,” a8 the lodian would say, or too much paim. Great deal of good tastein the dress- ing: very little gauze; very modest display of jew- etry and artificial head dressug; good warm cle- thing prevails, and but bitie flummery. Qaite a republican exhitition. The indies are, a large pro- rtion, strangere; but all appear to be perfectly at ome. But here comes Gen Houstona—what is he doing here on all oecasons’ B- the hag of the echool house. He is up for 5: “ie has signed the Kowad Rodin. He will probably be the Southwestern independent Union candidate, with “Cuba and acother slice of Mexico,” emblazoned on bis banner, as an offset to * Scott and Canada” in the Norh. Old Sam is making the acquaintance of the aProvle at large ‘This is the piace to catch ‘em. The only wonder is that Seow, Clay and Webster, are not here to- night, for there is somethirg so delightful in the flattering welcomes of every body and the ladies, and especially to men with their prospects, that they may be reasonably looked for on all such agreeable occasions But there are very few mem- bers of either house here to-night. How do you account for that! A.—There isa dinner or two round town; and our M.C.’s are always on hand fora good dinner Generally, they are from the “ rural distriets;” and your men raised among the honest yeomanry of the country have large ® hs for good fare, given ia a@ complimentary wey 3, the circus is in fullt we pledge you there is a quorum of the House at the circus, if not of the Senate. It is edifying to see the gu with which our honorable gentlemen from humug and Buncombe aplit their sides at the gingerbread buffoonery of the clowa ell enougn; but there isa great deal of clap trap in the stuil of our upper ten here in Washing- ton. There are M ©.'s here, sir, who can scarcely read or write, without amy pretensions to edaca tion, refinement, or extra common sease, Who would take the precedence of yourself, in this city, even ‘among those circles ‘iat command your esteem; bet all thiecan be excused en we consider that Washington ve at the } that every member bus a om” to an M. ( Hence the “area of 0 this dependent metro- re is large, and we can look on and eit t to beso. You must yield the w e M.C. Weare at bis mercy, and mast admit his privileges. But what busy lookieg gentleman is thet! B.—Mr. Snethen, late of the National Whig ‘That paper did good service for o'd Zack, and poor Fenton, the publisher, was rewarded A consulate to “ Cowes and a market,” whieh p way sometime: these men ought to be remembered by Mr. lili. re, if be believes in the doctrine of rewards aod ments. | A at come, let ua depart. Reverly Johnson | ooks well after bi e Ohio Seldom you tee a member of ola Zack's cabinet here in these | geys, and not often you see the Austrian minieter, lature:— It was bec early in the houses, and t! With some additional , ine stead of s Joint Select Committee, instructed to call in the aid of the commissioners and sit from day to day. Another sesrion, near at hand. will bring the completed eodes forward again. May we not reason- ably hope that they will no longer be postponed; but thet the Le inl take them up without delay, lature could dispose of the report without ‘‘calung in the aid” of the late commissioner. Senator Stanton, another lawyer, spoke upon the subject, and also alluded to the writings of Mr. Field, in the shape of “five articles,” waich had been distributed among the members. Mr. 8. read the following extract; although bearing heavily upon lawyers, he still felt willing to ac- re ite truth in @ great measure. Mr. ie eo to wait till the majority of the lega 1D become faverebie to ali th wait forever. is & eucred thing to the g and practivers When er portion of its students hange is proposed, they resist it. and their reristance has been, in all a) ad coun- lcoteh lawyer jury, as the z: This is jit @ fault of it. The French codes were resisted 'b influences burdensome, the most unjust, ve found read iste and defenders among that classot lawyers. always the most Bumerous and the most busy. wi spon the part alone, and i that whatever study and reason jose fundamental legal And it is but is right Mr. Stanton, although favorable te law reform in general, to the modifications introduced in the repor( he expressed hunself averse to that portion relating to the rule of evidence ‘There are eight lawyers in the Senate—one quar- ter of the entire body—and, from present indications, they will make @ strong and united effort to pre- vent legalising the report. It was stated, during the debate, thet the commissions had exceeded the power conterred upon the: and tranecended the authority gra the constitution, in attempting to reform the in crimiaal proceedings, and in interfering with the lJong-established rules of evidence. Notwithstanding the opposition of the legal Senators, the report was referred to a joint committee of both houses, the members on the partof the Senate being Mesers. Mana, Stanton and Gedder—the two former whole lawyers, and the latter “half a lawyer,” as remarked by Senator Stanton This morning the resolution fora joiat committer was taken up in the House,and discussed foran hour; but there was not that ferocity displayed against the code by the lawers there, that there was by them in the Senate. After several speeches from the “rural” lawyers, upon the propriety of a reference toa committee of both houses, Mr. Thompson, from the city, ended the debate by stating tbat the “profession were eager for necessary amendments to the existing code, (meaning that part lega- lized in 1348) a gode which, ia his opinion, mysti- fies, rather than simplifies, pract Sna- tor’s resolution was then agreed to, and a commit tee of five members of the Flouse will be announced by the Speaker, on Monday morning, to meet the Senate comm in overhauling the report of the Commissioners Practice and Pleadings, made to the Legislature of 1850 It is certain that ¢ | report will not be adopted nem com, as was that sent inte the Legislature in 1948. The lawyers | will resist its adoption with ali their combined power Ow Curacen Correspondenee Cunacos January 6, 1851 The New American Agent The newly appointed American Commercial agent, Mr. John McKelnay, Jr., of Trenton, N. J., arrived here some three weeks ago, and bids fai, to make himself very popular with the American: who visit the island, as also with the merchants of the place. Sinee the death of the late incum- bent, Col. J. E. Young, (which took place im July last,) an American agent has been very requisite on several occasions Virginia Reform Convention. OUR RICHMOND CURRESPONDENCE. Ricumonp, Va., Jan. 25, 1851. Richmond, its Gaiety, &c.—The Convention—Its Proceedings and its Composition— Mr. Wise and his Cowrse—The Past, the Present, and the Future of Virginia—The Slavery Compromise, &c.—Politics——The Weather. I do not believe there is a town in the Union, of equal population and dimensions, that can rival this, the metropolis of the ‘Old Dominion,” in the gaiety and animation which enlivens it at the pre- sent moment. The State Legislature and the Con- vention to revise the constitution of the State are both in session, and they have drawa together here an,unwonted concourse of learned statesmen, beau- tiful women, and interested and curious spectato! and “ outsiders” generally; the effect of which has been to give an unusual animation to the secial and the business circles of this hospitable and thriving ay. On the 6th instant, pursuant to the adjournment of the 4th of November, the Constitutional Cona- vention ageinassembled Thus far, owing to the fact that none of the committees to whom the va- rious subjects of constitutional reform were re- ferred have reported, but little has been done in the actual discharge of the duties for which the con- vention wasconvened. The first two weeks of the session was consumed in deciding upon a place for the permanent session of the body—the capi- tol being in possession of the Legisleture—and in determining upon a plan for the publication and distribution of its debates and ings, full reports of which are made by the offi- cial t, Mr. William G. Bishop, and his corps of assistants. The Universalist Church, a spa- cious edifice, conveniently located, was, after the rejection of the courteous proter of accommodations im Norfolk, Alexandria, and Petersburgh, selected as the place for holding the sessions of the Con- vention, and has been most comfortably fitted up for the purpose. The debates and pineeeninas, it is decided, are to be published at the expense of State, in a supplemental sheet to be furnished regularly to the subscribere of the six political journale of Richmond, and in an octavo form for binding and preservation. By this means, a full report of the proceedings and debates of the body will be regularly distributed among a majority of the voters of the State, while the publication in book form will secure it a place in public and ee libraries, for future reference. This pre- ninary business being disposed of, the Conven- tion, on Monday last, adjourned over until to-day, with a view of giving the committees ample time to perfect their labors and prepare their reports. Some of them are expected to report on Monday next; and by the close ot the week, the Conven- tion will doubtless be fully engaged in the prose- cution of its arduous and perplexing labors. The Convention is composed of 135 members, and although not an extraordinarily able body, is still far above mediocrity in point of talent. There are quite a number—perhaps a majority—of young men among the members, most of whom upon this Our Harrisburg Correspondence. Harrisaure, (Pa.) Jan 17, 1851. Election for U.S. Senator—How it was browght about—Brodhead and Brewster—General Came- ron and his Ailies—The General's Speech to Mr. Brodhead. “Much remains unsung!” particularly in re- gard othe combinations which brought about the elegtion of the Hon. Richard Brodhead to the United States Senate, and the results which are likely to fotlow his elevation to that high office. That Mr. Brodhead is of the right stripe—a con- sistent democrat, anda Union man, of the Cass and Clay platform—none will deny ; but how, in the name of all the Winnebagoes and Kickapoes in this great State, came it to pass that one so unex- eeyfonable in every respect should have carried of prize? Fortunately, I have it ia m to make all the necessary ex, anations, and fo! benefit ofthe readers of the Herald in general, and posterity Tn particular, shall do so. Let me com- mence at the commencement :— Just three weeks ago, Mr. Brodhead was sitting in the @ffice of that gifted, eloquent, and impetuous gentieren, Benjamin H. Brewster, Esq. Phila- lelphia. After chat! for about oue hour, in a very listless manner, Mr. Brewster turned sudden- y ong and slapped Mr. Brodhead violently on 5 nee. “* My God, Ben!” exclaimed the man of North- am; » grinning a ghastly smile. “Never mind, my friend,” soothingly responded Mr. Brewster. “A thought has struck me. ** Something else has struck me,” was the na- tural response. “(A thought has struck me, Dick,” continued Mr. Brewster. ‘* You must go to Harrisburg, and our chance for the United States Senate.” “* But [ am not a candidate.” “So much the better.” “I have not been spoken of by the press or poli- ticians for the office.” - tomer stil. Will you go?” es.” “Immediately 7” “Yes.” i u 8 of all t rani Fargcon’a ol shoes. When Mr. ‘Brodhead for Dr. Sturgeon’s old arrived at Hariatura, his chances for success ith the exception of twelve, looked rather slim. the democratic members were disposed to sustain in caucus either Ji udge Black or Judge Woodward. These twelve members were pl to sustain General Cameron, caucus or no caucus, and, as Governor Johnston had promised the eatire w! vote to the General, in case of a flare-up, his re- election seemed almost certain. Well, the night for the caucus arrived Nine of the Cameron men staid out of the caucus, while the remaining three joined their unsuspecting brethren, to kick up (to use a westernism) ‘a particular d——d fuss.” The caucus meeting was soon organized, and the ballotting commenced. It became evident that neither Judge Black nor Judge Woodward could be nominated. In this emergency, one of the occasion enter for the first time the arena of the politician and the statesman. There are also in the course, a number of veterans in public life, men not unknown to fame,—such for instanee a3 the President, John Y. Mason, late Secretary of the Navy, Henry A. Wise, the eccentric and the erratic, Jobn M. Botts, of ‘* head him or die” mem- ory &e., &e., just enough to leaven it favorably with their experience and knowledge of parliamen- tary proceedings. There isa deal of what is styled ‘* speaking talent” in the Convention, but judging from the indications thus far, it is possessed by tew of the members to such a degree as to pro- mise much display of brilliant oratory during the session. The peculiar system of electioneering cheracteristie of Virgini: in common to all the southern and southwestern States, which forces the candidate for popular favor “upon the stump” durwg the canvass, is, however, a certain guarantee that every member is competent to the expression of his views and opia- | general acquiescence in the compromi ions with fluency, at least, if not with elegance and precision. This fact and the well known ‘obstinacy and perseverance which 1s almost a characteristic off the V gins, controversialist, renders it certain in view of the many important anddifficult questions that are to be diecussed and decided that the ses- sion of the Convention will be a protracted one. Mr. Henry A. Wise is likely to attract no little attention, not only in V iy ome but in other States, from the course which he seems to have deter- mined to pursue. The regeneration and reinvigora- tion of the old commonwealth, and her awakening from the lethargy in which for years she has slumbered, is his constant theme—his dariing ob- ject—to promote and secure which, he seems pre- pared, if necessary, to uproot the very foundations of the present form of State government. thorough reformer an ultra radical, and may be regarded as the leader—the very head and front of “ Young Virginia,” or the progress and improvement. He is the strenuous ad- vocate for the prosecution of a comprehea- sive eytem of internal improvements, of a thorough and general echeme of public education, and of a complete and entire reconstruction of the jucici- ary, elected in one of the largest slaveholdiog counties in the State. He is the ardent advocate also, of the ** White Basis.” as it is called, or of the apportionment of represeatation according to white population. With his restless, untiring en- ergy —his persevering industry--and his fiery elo- | quence, Mr. Wise may be regarded as the ajax of | the reform party in the convention. The proceed- | ings of the y have not been of acharacter, thus | far, to indicate the standard bearer of the conserva- tive party; but there can be no doubt that Mr Wise will find among the many that cling to the past, and its traditions and recollections, a foeman worthy of his steel. Lause> aller. as There is much in the present condition ef Vir- ‘inia that is little understood or epreciated at the Korth; and indeed which the people of Virginia themselves are only beginning to understand and ep- preciate. * Jt is an ill wind that blows nobody any good,” and the abolition agitation, with all the evils it has produced, and the calamities it still threatens to produce, has had, at least, this bene- ficial effect. By forcing upon the consideration of the Southern people the question of what should | be done te resist the progress, and defend them- selvesfrom the encroachments of northern fana ticiem, it has revealed to them the nakedaese of their land, and lead them to the. ascertainment of the real causes, and the devising of remedies for that deficiency and tardiness ia the developement of all the elemenis of State and national great- ness, which, it must be confessed, has been in too a great degree their characteristic. Hence the gene- rai** arousing,” so to term it. which is row going on among the Southern people, and which is fested in the recent appropriation of $125,000, by | the Legislature of ‘South Carolina, for the establisb- ment of a line of steamships from Charleston to Liverpool in the daily establishment of manufactori Georgia, aud in a hundred other instances. No State has suflered more from the policy of the past, or is more thoro aroused to the neceseity for its abandonmen Virginia. With asoil as fertile, and a clin as genial as the most favored land upon which the sun shines, with her mountains teeming with mineral wealth, literally forcing itself from its prison in the bowels of the earth, to the surface, with a motive power sufficient to propel the ma- chinery of a world, leaping from her hills and gushipg through her ravines, and with an extent of fiver tnd bay —— capacious enough to float the products of Christendom, Virginia has re- mained almost stationary in the march of this Union to power and greatness. Starting in the outeet of this triumphan' progress in the very vas, she has seen her sisters, fer jess endowed by na- ture, outstrip her in the march, umtil gow her post- tion is almost in the very rear guard of the column Her people have, at last, began to realize this state of things, and are now shaking off the chains and shackles with which pride and prejudice have so long encumbered them. |.et but the spirit which is now awakened, animate them foratew ye and the Old Dominion will have resumed again her once proud position in the American Umeon. | So mote it be. Public feeling in He isa Virginia bas subsided into a ensure, end if they are preserved intact, her lo y to the Union ean never be shaken. The recent evidence | of the disposition of the North to sustain the | ugi- tive Slave law, furnished by New York in the case of Long, has had a most beneficial tendency in atrengthening that feeling, and in restoring cor- diality towards the North. A strong sentiment of dislike and distrust of the Northern, and particu- larly of the Eastern people, still existe, and to such a degree, that no Northern man can find employ- ment here in any branch of business, where it i« possible to secure the services of a Southern man, or even of a foreigner. For thie, thanks alone are due to the abolitionists and “higher law” ad- vocates. The political waters here are ina dead calm, with searce a breeze to rutile the eurfa Presi- dent Fillmore is deservedly popular, whige, and in despite of the movement the friends of General Scott, | think is their preferred candidate for the next c The democrats are great edmirers of the gallant | felt, more particularly in Philadelphia, where it is members called upon Mr. Brewster, and solicited his advice. . " “Mr. B, it is impoesible to nominate either Black or Woodward, and if nominated, defeat woulds‘ollow, as a matter of course. How would it do to take up Brodhead 2” “The very man.” - een. . ‘*In two more ballots his nomination is certain.” «*Go ahead, then.” And in two more hailots Mr. Brodhead was no- minated. Here, then, was a fix for Gen. Cameron. His own fate was in his own hands. Under all circumstances, he could count upon the eartire whig vote of the Legislature, and twelve demo- votes, which were quite sufficient to ensure lection. But, then, he had been fighting Black, and Foster, and, Woodward, but not st Brodhead. | three*former were his ene- mies, the latter his Miend; and, more than all, Brodhead had been nominated fairly, and in-ac- cordance with the strict usages of the party. There was not the slightest excuse to get u fight. If he persisted, and was elected, things would be still worse ; for it could only be accom- plished by the self-immolation of his friends, and the consequent success would place him before the democracy of Pennsylvania in the light of a selfish, eoulless disorganizer. With certain success—so far as his re-election was concerned—before him, Simon listened to the promptings of his better nature. He sent for Mr. Brodhead. Mr. Brodhead was not slow in obeying the summons. : “* Mr. Brodhead,” exclaimed the General, on his arrival at his (Simon’s) head-quarters, ** | am glad to see you. You have been fairly nominated by the caucus. When in Congress, I could always rely upon your assistance. You are a good tarifi, man, a good democrat, a Union man after my own | heart, and sound to the core on the nigger question. Yeu will find, to-morrow, that all my friends will go in for your support.” The sequel is already known. Haraisnaren, Jan. 26, 1851 The Reading Railroad—The Lebanon Valley Road —Naw Genral Banking Law, §¢., §¢. The bill relative to the Reading Railroad Com- pany, introduced by Mr. Simpson, of the county of Philadelphia, in the House of Representatives, a copy of which appeared in your columns, after a reference to the Judiciary Committee, was report- ed, yesterday, with a negative recommendation. Only one gentleman of the committee (Mr. Cassi- day, of Philadelphia county) voted in favor of the bill as commutted. An effort was also made to in- troduce the individual-liability principle, by tacking r. Simpson’s L— Lycomine. dividend since the ary, 1860, to which this is ment. di rector OF directors consenting thereto shall be liabie, ig their personal capacity. for the payment of any or allot the bonds due and unpaid on the first day of Jenuary, unless the said director or directors shall protest ayment of w ‘and if & majority ot the board of di any dividend to be pela, the: ae mitting the same, hall be liable for the pi any of the said over due bonds or unpaid obligations matured | 1 have very little hope of the passage of Mr. | Sumpeon’s bili, although theve appears to be a dis- | position to handle the subject, ere the close of the eession, without glov Mr. D. H. B. Browe: read, in hu P whig member from Butler, 10th, a bill which ‘strikes at the root ; a8 nothing short of the re- | peal of the objectional supplement will ever stay the agitation of the subject. The bill isas | follewe:— An Act entitled an Act t ment tothe Act autho porate the Philadelphia peny Le it enacted by the Senate and House of Represen- tatives of the Commonwealth ot Pennsylvania, in Ge neral Assembly met, and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the eame, thet «further sappiement to the Act entitled am act to authorize the Governor to incorporate the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad mpany, approved the second day of February, one ight bundged and fifty, be, and the same is by repealed Very great efforts have been made by those in the interest of the company, to stave off any action, | as its unconstitutionality 18 not denied ; nor was it | at iis passage. It was clearly an ¢x post facto law. The subject of true banking 1s attracting more | than ordinary attention. Petitions are pouring in from all sections of the State, and a great struggle | will be made to carry the project he scarcity of small notes and the lack of silver, is very severely | bringing 25 to 3 per cent premium; and this may | have a tendency to bring about an entire change | in our banking system. The following is a copy of the petition in circulation, which certainly is high- | ly complimentary to New York :— To tHe Brvare avo Howse or Rernesentarives of Pevwevi.vantas— The undersigned, oi county, respect- fully pray for the pase anking Law, based on the deposit of State or United Btates stocks, for the redemption of the notes to be issued under such law The against moneyed monopolies would y obviated by the proposed system. In no idm benk be started without actual capital could the circulation ever exceed the emount of the security placed the hands of the oper autherity for ite redemption. The business of nking would be thus thrown open te all, upon the true republican priseiple, and upon sure and firm foundation Th experience of New York and Ohio, where both 4 for s number of years, superiority of the free or and 3 our petitioners con- dom ‘for ® community to ow of ite neighbors the passage of aGeneral Banking Law, similar tn ite provisions to that of New York, with euch improve mente as the wiedom of your honorable bodies may fuggest, inasmuch as it is almost universally con- ceded that additional by by the aggicultural interests of the Keystone State and intrepid course of your Senator, Daniel 5. Dickinson, and a majority of them, lam as- sured, will his nomination tor the Presidency with the greatest joy and enthusiasm. indeed, | have been told that a movement was contem- , on the part of the democratic members islature, before its adjournment, having for its object, if not the nominaion, at least the ex- pression of the preference of the democratic party of V ia for the nomination of Mr. Dickinson to idency. It ie, any rate, & cempli nen richly the due of that dist ished atatesm: The weather here is truly delightful. W e enjoying a genial at re, and # bright sua ine, more ite to the season of buds and fowers than that of frosts and ag ON The Lebanon Valley lailroad Company, incor- porated at the session of our Legislature, to construct a reilroad between Reading and H burg, have taken up their charter, a sufficient amount of stock hi nf been subscribed. A sure vey has been made of the proposed route, of which the following i lescription — T e Readi utting; ororses the sobuy’ feventy-one feet above water, by a spanning the river Bobuylkill and the Union Thenee it westward, ascending at the rate of twenty-six and « half feet per mile, with inter mediate levels tor five miles, and crosses the [Harris burg turnpike near the first toll gate, and reaches the subordinate valley between South Mountain and éiate Hill, near the village of Sinking Springs, where uadula- | and officers, who advooat | IL. M. ship at the disposal oi | it is to be carried on. | are bein; ted commence and continue until the table Wend othe Surqurtpans are reached, » distance of torty-four miles. leaving Sinking 8; the line continues south of the turnpike, enum bez of small tributer lee of the A urnece, ‘om crorses Milbech at the riding end follows the summit miles of Le! leaving Myerstown two miles to the id Bchaeflrstown ‘ee miles to the left. @ summit the line oresses the turnpike and P North Lebanon, crossing Market treet about between the borough line and Ben: Somin Zellers hotel. t - taken , and Ni eastern slope of the main it to within three It continues om very favorable | is crossed 1 und to Millerstown, where the Quita Sas direction towards feaees the leaving Middletown summit the main westward descent commences at the rate of vaenly 200 feet per mile, and continues, with intermediate levels, seven and a quarter mi to the spire, and the precipitate nlopes dividing the ‘Susqte: spire, jopes div idin, e jwe- ‘lata and table lands ur miles below Harris. length is fifty-six and three-quarter miles, four and es quarter miles than the turnpike and makes the distance to P! bia from Harr! with the Reading raifroad, 11 miles, or seven and a halt miles or sancaster. laying treok, fond dams- ns, $120,531 26, Seking ¢ entire cost of the road $1,462,574 70. The friends of the road are quite sanguine that sufficient stock will be taken to warrant operations next spring. the route by way of Li Abill passed the Senate, yesterday, giving power to the Pequa Railroad and improvernen Companyée sell out their entire interest to the Dauphin and Susquehanneh Railroad Co. A large amount of stock of these two companiesis held in New York, and the direction of its affairs is, also, principally from that quarter. SusQuewaNnna. Interesting from Nicaragua. OUR SAN JUAN CORRESPONDENCE. San Juan pe Nicaragua, Dec. 19, 1860. The Returning Californians— The Duties at San Juan—The Decree, §c., §¢. I avail myself of a direct means of communi- cation by the Victoria, which sails to-day. There is nothing very startling on the coast at preseat, although the great influx of California adven- turers makes it quite a stirring place just now. The attraction in every way produced by the transit of passengers, by this route, is singular. Every thing is on the rise. Lots, or plots of ground, which could be bought a few months since for a song, sell for $200 and $300 each. Every house is filled with boarders; and the only hotel in the place is at. present overflowing. The natives are reaping a st; and [ assure you they make hay whilst the sun shines. The owrers of anything that floats also come in for a share of the *‘dust,” and the * bungoes” which convey passengers from the L: to the British steamer to Chagres, are gathering gold in all shapes trom the toil worn travellers oa their way to the States. The svenes daily presented here are highly picturesque and interesting. As the ‘*bungos” are seen winding round from the mouth of the river, loaded with a very motley looking lot of passengers, you perceive the change which the search for gold has made—torn and worn, wretched in apparel and appearance, many sick, and all wearing the lines of care written on their sunburnt brows. {t atrikes the beholder with wonder that men should be lured from home to sufler the privations too plainly visible in almost every one of the many hundreds at present here. Within one month, no less than 810 passengers have passed through this place for the United States, via Realejo; and this month the number will exceed 1,000. c You will see from this the necessity of an American steamer to convey passengers to a home port, who now have to go to Chagres and pay an exorbitant price for even a deck e. There is necessity, too, of an American Consul at this port. Many cases occur among the passengers where his services would be valuable. At present, the Eng- lish Consul, James Green, Esq , acts as far as pos sible, in lieu of an American agent; but it seems unaccountable to Americans here, that a recog nized government officers has not been appoiated. Mr Laie peg has never been se recognized, it ap- pears, and at present 1s located at Leon Nicaragua. 1 enclose a copy ot a notice issued yesterday, by which you will perceive that the oppress’ve and ndiculous custom restrictions are to be removed after the Ist day of January, 1851. The daties have been paid under protest, in many instances, and will be contested. Here ia the document:— Barrisn Consve. Grey Town, Dec. 850. I, the undersigned. acting under the authority ot his majesty. the King of Mos; uito, wi proval of her Britannic Majesty's governm: issue the following notice -— On the Ist day of January, 1851, the authorities at the port of Grey Town will cease to | versels or goods belonging to citize States, or of Nicaragua and Costa Kies, as tish subjects which msy arrive at this after that date (Signed) JAM er Britannic Majesty's Acting Age! General. The Bremen bark Virginia, arrived at this port esterday, efter a passage of 45 days from Bremen. he was taken up immediately for New Orleans, and will sail soon with some two hundred passe ers. [Everything is chartered as soon as arriv lor the same purpose. The propoeed canal remains in statu ywo. The Joss of the Orus has rather dampened the enter- prise. The steamboat ** Director,” has not suc- ceeded yet, etting up. lenclose a draught of the rapids of the San Juan river, drawn by Capt. E. Meny, who has had much experience on the route. Should anything of moment occur | will forward a letter by the steamer of the 15th, RDP. THE IERALD TO THE EDITOR OF The remarks on the “ English at Ban Jus appeared in your columnr yesterday, over the signature o: “A Pas- renger.”” in eflect deny the disinterestedness of that act, while, at the same time. “the motive for this Kindners” is explained a* follows: —“In order to fave the town, the commander of the Inflexible politely volunteered to take the Americans down to Chagr the Inflexible was influ dictates ot and home sick individuals, lenst. have suffered severe privations. arks of ‘A Passsnger” are very muoh 01 of place, and it would be well if he was taken back from whence he was eo kindly delivered, be apdail such ungrateful to the fate Pervonage, as an American citizen, and anything “English” must be, as « matter of course, connected with something disgraceful or clandestine. If Ameri- cans abroad were treated in like manner by these mi ble English,” they would Ivara « lesson in bumen nature they do not at present seem to under- stand Falk PLAY. New Yor«, Jam 25, 1861 Another Scheme for a Railroad to the Pa- eific, through Canada, The Hamilton (Canada) Spectator of the 224 inst., in commenting on the Canada and Pacific Railroad project, observes that there is nothi novel in the proposition, nor in the mode by whic! Both English and Canadian writers have contended, years ago, that the short- est and cheapest route trom England to the East Indies and China lies through the North American colonies, and the placing as viceroy over the Bri- tish possessions in this quarter of the world, of a member of the royal family, has been suggested time and again. The attempt to revive these schemes at this particular juncture ia, how- ever, oon of attention. The recent dis coveries in California, the immense importance of the trade of the /ast, and the efforts which made by the leading nations of the world to extend their commerce, especially on the Pacific, are quite sufficient to cause an inquiry iato the merits of suggestions which, a tew years ago, were looked upon as visionary and impracticable With- out havisg the work before us, it is impossible to say aught respecting the facts and arguments ad- duced; but, as the subject hes attracted the notice of, and has app ly created some alarm among, our republican neighbors, we are entitled to assume that the author has succeeded in arousing an inte- rest which will test the advantages urged in the scheme. The total cost of the road from Halifax to Paget’s Sound, opposite the Istand of Van- couver, a distance of 2,800 ae estimated at £14,000,000—en average of £5,000 per mile. The truction of the work would afford em- ployment for five millions of poor people from the mother country, who would eventually become useful settlers along the line of road; and, when the immense sums paid annually for the support of pavpere in Ireland and England, is taken fate account, together with this plan of ierting per- menent relief, by undertaking a great national work, and at the same time making a profitable investment, it must be admitted that the propo- sition is entitled to the best consideration of those before whom it is brought. One thing, at least, is certain—no return ever be expected for the Jarge sume now ex led in affording relief to the poor at home; there 0 hopes of eecaping the payment of this annual tribute to pauperism, until the country is relieved of a por- tion of its dense population. How much better would it be, then, to expend the money now paid for saving people trom starvation, ia such a manner as to secure their comfort and prosperity in another portion of the empire? Our Canadian C Quese, Dec. 19,1850. The Progress of Railroads in Canada—State of Trade— Reciprocity with the United States. Railroads are still the great subject of discussion 1m our Canadian newspapers. Our own line from Quebec, to join the Portland and Montreal, at Richmond, has, I regret to say, been delayed ia its Operations, by the corporation demanding that two different routes, which have each troops of friends shall be surveyed at the joint expense of themselves | and the company, and that the best shall be chosen. | The great difficulty in building the road arses from the crossing the St. Lawrence during the winter months. Opposite Quebec, and for thirty miles above, as far up'as the tide runs, there ie no ce bridge, except at very rare intervals—the last wae in 1847—and there had not been ene formany years before. The crossing is accomplished ia Jarge canoes, and is exceedingly difficult and dam- Gerous, on account of the large masses of floating ice, over which the canoes have to be dragged when there is no opening near. Itisindeed extraordinary how dextrous the vovageurs are in the management of their frail barks. ae over an immense cenit of market stufl, and even live stock. lorses are somewhat difficult to manage, I be- lieve; but their lege are tied together, and they are deposited on the bottom of the canoe, feet upwards. Now, there isa party who carry the railroad from the city up the north bank of the river, about forty miles, where there is an ice bridge, always aflording a crossing, and thence to carry it to Richmond. The others say that it would be very expensive on account of the great elevation of the land on the , and wish to cross about nine miles above, which they say is the next best place, and, moreover, one of the narrowest; so that when we shall become rich bove we may be able to build a bridge for it. So our railroad. When the surveys are made, ek will be very soon, we shall kaow more about it. The main line from Montreal to Port- Jand, the government engineer has been lb to see whether the conditions upon which govera- ment tees one half of the nee of con- struction have been complied with. The next in order is the Bytown Prescott, which is about to be surveyed. An American contracti Meeers. Waiker & Chamberlain—who built a portion of the Ogdensburgh Railway, have ot to -construct the road and take payment for one- Cog in stock. This gam Ui school on the . Lawrence, opposite e1 to Bytowa, the capital of ‘the great lumbering ecuntry of the Ottawa. It runs through a very fae country, and the ground, I believe, is very favorable. The con- tract is signed with Messrs. Story & Co., of New York, for the construction of the road from Toronto to some pert on ake Huron, a distance of 90 miles, which it is said will cost some $2,000,000. The great western road to run, trom the Niagara river to the Detroit, in which ye ple, and particu- larly the MichiganjCentral stockholders, are deeply interested, 1s fairly commenced. Advertisements have been issued calling for contracts for a pve of the work. So siand the railroads which have made some progress by the formation of companies. A great scheme is, however,on the tapis, which may yetbe finiched. It is proposed to run a road right up from Montreal to Hamilton, along the lake. It would pass;through twenty prosperous and towns, and twenty fine townships, the muui- cipal bodies of which might be expected to contri- bute towards its constracuon. I think the money might be got; but [ question if the road would pay dire! ide the lake, on which freight canted for fle. Until our fast business travel in winter and summer becomes greater than it is, { think we could do without this road. The efforts of the Canadians should be first directed towar opening up their back country, which is not by navigable waters. The trade returns of the year are being made up; and from what we have already seen of them, we are led to form the most favorable opinions of the state of the country, and the business which it has transacted during the season just closed. So far as this section of the country is concerned, there is no doubt of our abundant prosperity. The lum- ber business—the great trade of the port —has been in a very healthy state, in consequence of the de- mend from your side of the lines for our white pine, which kept up the price. Our traflic with the lower ports, as they are called on the St. Law- rence, and in Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, has been increased toa very great extent. W we sent them more flour provisions, ve received more fish, oil, and coal., than we have ever done before. As you are aware, this trade haa been al- most monopolized by Portland, Boston, 3 New e can York; but we are beginning to bid for it. ship flour from Lake Ontario, direct to Halifax, cheaper than we can send it through your caa and we have, besides ,a preferential duty in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island e now find, too, a ready market for the fish of the lower provinces, in your western ports. rts. Another Ving, tho er result from this ye business, the jians are glad to notice. isa reduction of the rates of freight from the St. Law- rence to Great ree by foreiga vessels being allowed to compete. Formerly the trade was con- fined to the Bnitish ship owners, and like most monopolists, they did not exert themselves, and the consequence was that the vessels were ill manned and officered, and the rates high. This state of things had been considerably altered within a few years bu: the result of this season's trade will totally change the face of matters. We have had a great many smart American ships, with smer* captains, who have taken freights or lower rates than were ever taken before. Timber, which was last year charged 32s. per load, has this sea- son been carried tor 26s., and there is a correspond- ing decrease on other articles. All this is 39 much = to our lumberers, and agriculturists, and pro- lucing classes. The rates of imsurance on the St. Lawrence route have also been reduced th 3 year; enother step towards making our river ag cheap aa avenue for the trade of the west as the Hudson But perhaps the best proof of our prosperity is the immenee increase in our trade with the United States. For many years bach the balance of trade has been entirely against us, and we have anaually shipped large quantities of specie. In 1849 we sent you $438, while during the first nine months of 1560 we have sent you only $34,328, and I have nO reason to suppose that the last quarter's export will exceed any previous. Oar imports of your mauufactures have been increased, but it is as sailing commygees with your imports from our side. Mr. Merritt's retirement from the cabinet is now the political nine days’ wonder. Merritt isa very energetic, persevering man, and asthe prietor of the Welland ci and its principal ire moter, he is entitled to great credit; but he is a vain who dreams great dreams, and cares little t the practical means of carrying them out. Such men may do to lead a mi y¥—to go before thern—but not toact with them. He has resigned, or has been removed, on account of certain great financial changes and reductions which he pounded to a committee of the House last session, whfch not one of his colleagues approved of. icks, the Inspector General, has gone te gton to look afier the iprocity bill. Mr. H. is the beet figure man in the country—actize, ind ious, shrewd, and thoroughly informed on ncial afluirs. If he does not persu legis’ators that it isfor your interest to g re- ciprocity of trade, no one else can. | believe that should the negotiations fail, there will be a cry numediately raised for diflerential dat ef the St. Lawrence r be successful. 1 afraid, because | a free trader in the broadest sense of the word, and dis like all duties, no matter for whose benefit they are imposed. There would be a keen opposition jo itin the upper provinee; but with the protec- ists there and in the lower province, and the anti American feeling everywhere, I think it would be successful. Are you prepared to give up all communication with us! Tie Fiorina Inpians.—A bill has passed both houses of the Legislature of Florida having ia view the removal of the Indians from that State. From a summary of the act in the Florida ‘Repub. (ican we learn that it instructs the Governor te urge upon the President of the United State the ne- cessity of removing the Indians, in falfilment of the treaty of Payne's landing, and, until this can be effected, of maintaining the force and posts de- signated by the Secretary of War in 1812; and also authorises him to raise and equip a regi- ment of mounted volunteers, to consist of ten companies of eighty rank and file each, and to increase the same, if need be, to two regimente. it also invests the Governor with power to use said force to co-operate with any United States troops the President may order to Florida for the removal of the Indians, or, if in his jadgment it may become neceseary, to use them as an inde- pendent force—said troopa to have the same pay and rations as are allowed to United States troops; and that the Governor be required to make applica- tion to Congress to make provision for the payment of the expenses vo incurred. The bill further en- acts that $50,000 be appropriated, subject to the control of the Governor, to provide for the neces- sary supplies and munitions, and authorizes the Governor to pledge the State for the payment of the sum of money #0 appropriated. The bill also provides that if the United States decline or refuse to take prompt steps for the removal of the Indiana, that the Governor is empowered to propose to un- dertake their removal for the sum of $2,000,600, ‘ovided the United States will farnish at Tampa y, cd — other suitable point, means of their ipmen Of students in the senior class of the Ohio, Cotlegs, is 7. junior 18, sophomore 91, a 20-totel él. The sumber athe academy,