The New York Herald Newspaper, August 10, 1853, Page 1

THE NEW YORK HERALD. WHOLE NO. 7584. Remarkable Adventures of an American in i ariern Archipelago. A NARRATIVE oF “Hs VOYAGE THERE. WHAT WE SAW ON HIS WAY. His Capture, Orfrageous Treatment, and imprisenment by the Dutch. HOSPITALITY OF THE NATIVES OF SUMATRA, ESCAPE FROM~A DUTCH PRISON, &., &., kd. Our age is an age of adventure, as wonderful as any ever recorded in history. Every part of the world is overrun by explorers, and we daily hear the results of their discoveries in the arctic regions; in the vernal islands of the Pacific; in the interior of Africa, where a torrid san and burning sands offer no barrier to their investigations; away off, above the reach of human vision, on the summits of moun- tains covered with eternal snows; in the profound and sulphurous abysses of terrific volcanoes; in soli tary seas, unknown before to commerce, that great incentive to maritime expeditions, Who can calcu. late the results of these discoveries on the destiny o the world, and more particularly on the destiny of our own country, which has already done so much towards promoting them? Already have the islands of that great ocean which bounds our western limits begun to experience the benefits which generally re- sult from commercial intercourse with our people; and the day,we prophecy,is not far distant when not only the ports of Japan will be thrown open to the enter- prise of our people, butthe most intimate, and we trust the most advantageous, relatious to both parties will be established between gur government agd citi- zens and the princes and governments of the whole eastern archipelago. The Dutch and English have long monopolized the trade of those islands; but events which are at present transpiring, will soon change the aspect of affairs in that quarter of the world, and American vessels must, at no distant day, share the wealth with which those islands abound, We hope, however, when this bright prospect shall be realized, that the natives will not be treated as they have been both by English and Dutch, but that our countrymen, in their intercourse with them, will be governed by principles of equity and fairness. We have been led into this train of remarks by an account of the remarkable adventures of Mr. Gib- son, an American gentleman, who has just returned from Sumatra, where he was imprisoned for nearly two years by the Dutch authorities, on the most un- warranted, groundless, and, as the result of his trial proved, on the most unsupportable charges of high treason against the integrity of their government in that island. The whole history of his escape from prison, and his previous adventures, is so replete with interest that we cannot resist the temptation of giving it to our readers as he related it tous. The importance of the circumstances and transactions in which he played so prominent a part cannot but strike all who read this interesting narrative. We feel confident that it will attract the prompt at- tention of our government tothe matter, of which he has such just cause of complaint, and that some means will be taken fur the redress of so gross an outrage upon the laws of justice and hospitality. In this case the Dutch have acted ina manner that would disgrace even the Japanese. But to our nar- rative. Mr. Gibson, in May, 1861, bought from the govern- ment the U.S. revenue schooner Flirt, with the in- tention of selling her to Geueral Carrera, of Guate- mala. He had previously some understanding with the Chevalier Gomez, who, it may be remembered, was shot in a duel a few months ago, and another Spanish gentleman, in relation to the purchase of it by General C.; but, unfortunately, the movements of the filibusters here had excited the suspicions of our suthorities to such an extent that he found it im- possible to leave port with an armed vessel, and was consequently compelled to abandon the attempt. Failing in this, Mr. Gibson next conceived the idea of taking her to Brazil, and selling ner there. Ac- cordingly, loading her with ice, upon which he might have realized eight dollars a hundred, had he arrived there in seasonable time, he left for that country. Before reaching his des. tination, however, an unpleasant difficulty oscurred on board his vessel, which forced him to put into the Cape de Verd Islands. Previous to this he had oc- cupied the position of passenger, but being deprived by it of his captain, Le had to resame the command ofthe vessel himself. He thea steered for the coast of Brazil, but not finding a purchaser there for his vessel, and none of the inducements which he had hoped for,towards estublishing a trade with the peo- ple, he was compelled to turn his atteution to other quarters, and concluded on making a short ran up the Amazon, in the iuterest of certain parties. Here he ‘was met again by avother difficulty; for, a3 soon as he was preparing to goup that river, he was warned off by the Brizilian war steamer Castalia. Soon alter he assisted a Baltimore vessel, called the Ruth, which was wrecked off Cape St. Roque, on the Brazilian coast. On approaching this vessel he found that it hadgbeen{entirely stripped, and was surrounded by wreckers, who had even cut away her running gear andstanding rigging. At the same time the Flirt, in nearing ber, ran upon the same rock, and was only after great difficuliy got off, From this place our adventarer sailed for the East Indies, after touching at the coast of Brazil. His object in mak- ing that his peint of destination, was a desire to gratify his curiosity regarding the character of the country, its people, aud their manners, customs, &c. Not being particularly pressed for time, and desirous of seeing all that was to be seen ou his way, he de- termined on stopping a few days on the remarkable island of Tristan d’Acunha, the history of which is fullfof the most romantic incideats. This island is situated on the south of the Cape of Good Hope, and was first inhabited by Sergeant Glass, a deserter, who deserted many years ago from the Pandora, a British frigate which went aground on some rocks on the coast. There he lived, like Robinson Crusoe, for three years, sole monarch of all he surveyed, and like him, living upon the fruits with which the islaud abounded, and on the flesh of the wild yoata, of which there ap- pears to have been an immense number. At the end of three years solitary existence in his ocean-bound domain, he determined on going to the Cape of Good Hope in quest of a wife. He accordingly con- structed a stout boat, and, trusting himself to the winds and waves, stecred direct for the Cape, which he reached in safety after a brief voyage. Here he was 80 fortunate as to get a companion with whom he could share his island home,mud after performidg the required religious ceremonies he left the Cape, -and again trusting himself to the elements, arrived ‘In good season at the island. In. course of time his family was enlarged by the addition of seven daugh- ters, all of Whom are now matried, and, according to the latest accounts, living in a mort enyi- able state of domestic bappiuess with their husbands, who were formerly American whalers, Mr. Gibson says that their children, and particularly the females, are among the handscmest that be has geen in the course of his ad- venturous voyage. ‘The population of the island now pumbers mo lesg than oighty four souls, who live in a MORNING EDITION----WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1853. state of blissful ignorance of the vices and passions of the bustling utilitarian world outside. In the centre of the island, a mountain raises its snow crowned summit to the immense height of eleven thousand feet. From the appearances of the land it is probably of volcanic origin, and an extinct crater still remains to strengthen the probability. This crater, strange to say, forms the basin of agon- siderable sized lake, from which the inhabitantspb- tain the most peculiar fish, different in cece Aye any other found in the waters in or about the isl: The scenery is exceedingly beautifnl and diversi- fied. The cultivated ground extends over about two hundred and fifty acres, and is situated on a plateau or piece of table land on the side of the mountain: The costume of the inhabitants tends to heighten the picturesque effect of the scenery, and im- press the visiter with the idea that he has at last found De Foe’s marvellous story realized. The women, and especially the granddaughters, are most expert in the use of the rifle, andcan rival the men in the successful pursuit of game. The arti- cles which these Dianas prize most are powder and fans—strange associates! The inhabitants live principally by fishing and hunting, and exchange in trade with whalers, cheese, potatoes, and other products of the island, for shot, powder, and other indispensable requisites. Mr. Gibson finforms us that he staid three days on this terrestrial paradise, and left it with many regrets, but with the intention of again visiting it, should his good fortune ever lead him that way. It may not be uninteresting to our politi- cal readers to state here that the government is patri- archal, old Sergeant Glass deciding all disputes and difficulties, which, however, are very few. There is no Court of Appeal, and the law’s “ delays” are here mnknown. Blessed island, how happy must thy peo- ple live, who know neither the annoyances of tedious litigations, and for whom the follies of fashion pos- sess no allurements, but who are content with their shaggy goatskin babiliments, coveting only a fan, with which to while away the tedious hours, or mo- derate the summer heat ! It is with equal regret that our voyager felt on leaving ye, that we depart with him in imagination on his distant voyage. After leaving Tristan d’Acunha, Mr. Gibson went as far as 65 degrees south latitude, sailing with the great circle—a new theory which caused consid- erable diseussion among nautical circles, about three years ago. In turning northward again, he stopped at the solitary island of St. Paul’s, which possesses almost as much romantic interest as that which we have just described. St. Paul’s was settled by a Frenchman named La Touraine, about fifteen years ago, and he has continued to inhabit it ever since, if we except the few brief visits which he makes every year to the-Mauritius in a small schooner. When Mr. Gibson landed he was absent, but our voyager left many agreeable evidences of his visit in the hut of the solitary resident. The island of St. Paul's is generally sighted by vessels going to China, and is particularly remarkable from its astonishing resem- blance toa whale. It is situated in south latitude 38deg., and east longitude 88 deg. At that part which might be called the head of a whale, a pillar of rock, or natural needle, rises to the height of one hundred and twenty feet. This might not inaptly be compared to the spout which that animal throws out when swimming on the surface of the water. There isa beautiful cove in this island, large and deep enough for vessels of the heaviest burthen, but the entrance to it isso narrow that a boat of large size cannot get into it. The adjacent waters literal- ly swarm with fish. Our voyager remained here four days, and then turned his prow towards the Cocos islands. These islands obtain their name from the cocoa nu which grows there in the greatest abundance, cocos being the Dutch name for that fruit. The Cocos islands were settled by Captain Ross, an Englishman, his two sons, their wives and children. Some years ago he brought one hundred and fifty Coolies from Java, to assist him in the cultivation of the land. About three times every year he takes aload of cocoa nuts to Batavia. The next island he anchored at was Eugano, which has Jong been rendered famous, or, we should rathef say, infamous, as the resort of pirates. Leaving this, he touched at the island of Nayas, in which he saw wo- men, whose nut brown hair, deep blue eyes and lovely features, exceed in beauty even the far-famed daugh- ters of Circassia. The island of Bali next loomed up from the deep before his vessel. Here he was struck with the contrast presented by the immeuse popula- tion and the comparatively limited dimensions of the island. There are no less than eight hundred thousand human beings here, and they appear to be a brave and energetic people. It is spoken of by Gov. Rapples in his Histo. ry of Java, and deserves particular mention on ac- count of the successful resistaice which its inhabi- tants offered to the Dutch. The Dutch Gen. Van Wyck, was defeated before the native fort of Jaguar Agar, and 3,400 of his men killed, the remainder oy his force being compelled to seek safety in flight, In their last attempt to obtain sovereignty in the island, the Dutch were more successful, and had got the better of the natives. The I'lirt touched on various points on the coast of Sumatra, after leaving Bali, and also at Crockotoa, ce'cbrated for the coral gardens which lie sparkling at the bottom of its pellucid waters. Nothing, Mr, Gibson tells us, can exceed the exquisite beauty of the sight presented by these gardens, and the brilliancy of the various colors which theyjdisplay. He after- wards visited several small islands in the Straits of Sunda and the Java sea, of which he has preserved most interesting and minute details and sketches, besides many important maps aud charts of the coast—bis first officer, Mr. Graham, being an excel- lent hydrographer. These details would fill a targe volume. Here we may state that Mr. Gibson had Another object in view beside the mere gratification of his curiosity, in visiting the East Indies. He was, he informed us,indnced to goto Singapore to obtain infermation concerning certain property of a relative who bad been trading in those seas as commander avd ewner ofa vessel during eighteen years, and who, dying there suddenly, left his property in the hands of the English. It was, az may be supposed, therefore, his interest. to proceed direct to Singa- pore. It was now the season of the northwest mon- soon, which blowing directly io his teeth, deter- mined him on remaining where he was until the northeast monsoon should set in, which would enable him to make the run in two or three days. Ashe was preparing to pass out of the Straits ot Banca, before the favorable monsoon had commenced, and just as he was about entering the Chiva Sea, he was driven back by stress of weather, and forced to come to anchor in the roads of Mintok, on the [sland of Banca. He intended to remain here but afow hours—long enough to geta ie er and some wood. During his , y ‘as kindly invited by Governor Scha pp, the Du hb resident of that place, to partale of the mansion. On this invitation be , n; and duing the thirteen diys of his visit he enjoyed the acquaintance of ail the officers of the plice, and saw the wonderful tin mines for which that island is celebrated. There are, Mr. Gibson says, no less thaa thirteen thousand Chineze employed in these mines, by the Dutch, proprietor of the territory. The cost of the tin there is about five dollars per hundred, or fifteen rupees. This is when it is ready for shipment. The gevern- ment, following out their characteristic Policy of re- striction, have limited the production of these mines to about seventy thousand piculs, each picul being about 125 pounds, The object of this policy is to maintain the high price. The island could produce 200,000 piculs. The net revenue tothe Dutch government last year, from this source, was $2,100,000. The Island of Billiton is the private pro- perty of Prince Henry, son of the present King of the Netherlands, William III. It also produces a great supply of tin, and is under the management of the Baron Van Tuyl, well known in this country, where he has lived many years. During his stay on the Island of Banca, he re, quested to be furnished with a Malay interpreter and secretary to instruct him in the Malay language, which he desired to obtain a knowledge of for his future use. While here, he formed an acquaintance with several officers, some of whom were about to proceed to the Fort of Palembaug, on the Moosee river, in Sumatra, where the interpreter would be of great service to him in his intercourse with the natives. The interpreter and secretary had both been introduced to him by the officers who played the part of his friends, but who, as wil be seen, gained his confidence the better to serve their own treacherous ends. Badoo, the interpreter, was one of the private police of the resident Gover- nor,Schapp, of Banca, and had been furnished to our voyager to watch all his actions. The Dutch, it is well known, are exceedingly jealous of the appear- ance of avy American in that region, and Mr. Gib- son’s being the first American vessel which had en- tered those waters, naturally excited their suspicions, particularly as they had heard of the Cuban move- ment, which at that time was in full blast here, Subject to this espionage he left Banca, accom, panied by five officers and one hundred and twenty men. Various interesting incidents occurred during his passage up the Palembaug. He had two en™ counters with tigers, of which hecaptured one. He also had a brush with some large monkeys, and a sort of semi-human, semi-brute creatures called Orang- kooboos, a hairy, naked race, living in the trees, and communicating with each other in a language which civilized man has found it impossible to reduce to a grammatical system. They have no connection with the Malay inbabitants of Sumatra, but never” theless a sort of commercial intercourse, if a mere exchange can be dignified by that title, exists be tween them. The Malays place red cloth and other attractive articles on the outskirts of the woods in- habited by the Kooboos, and then retire to a dis- tance,{when the savage denizens of the wilds make their appearance and replace those arti- cles with benzoin and camphor, two very valuable drugs. There is another savage race still more degene- rate, called the Orang Gugur. Both are utterly des- titute of chins, almost covered with hair, have little or no calf to the leg, long heels, long arms, receding foreheads, and projecting jaws, like the monkey tribe. In fact, they appear to be more closely allied tothe brute than to the human pest of creation: Their heads, however, are covered wii long, flow- ing hair, which on the femaales grows to a great length, often falling below the waist. It is decorated with ornaments made of the cocoa nut and other articles, Proceeding up the river about one hundred miles, Mr. Gibson came to anchor opposite the Fort of Pa- lerubaug, his place of destination, and was there re ceived with a great show of attention by the resi dent Governor, De Brauw, and his officers. Sump tuous entertainments were given in his honor at the Governor's residence, which were reciprocated by others on board the Flirt. While in this part of the country ht visited various native princes and chiefs among whom were Prince Panzorang, Oswin bin Kassim Bar Kaba, an adherent of the Sultan of Jamba, also the Prince Scherriff Ali, chief of the descendants of Arab settlers in Sumatra. He had also an opportunity of visiting the celebrated Tiang Alam, which signifies Pillar of the World. He is the Chief of the Passumahs, a fine race of people, highly spoken of by Marsden and Rafiles in their ac- count of Sumatra. It appears that this Tiang Alam is a minister of a highly interesting and beautiful princess, called Sahdeah, who is the grand-daughter of a sultan de- pored by the Dutch invaders. On aeeeunt of the fame and surpassing beauty, as well as the strange posi- tion in which this princess is placed, our adventurer was induced to visit her territory. Upon intimating his desire to do so to certain natives, in a short time information was conveyed to him that a prow, a pleasure barge peculiar to this country, was ready to take him to Ogan river, where he could have an interview with this peerless beauty of Sumatra, When he saw her surrounded by her brilliant court. and glittering with jewels, her beauty shining re- splendent amid all the ornaments with which she was decked, our voyager could not forbear express- ing his admiration, at which, of course, the cour- tiers and the fair object felt much pleased. Unfor- turately for him, Lowever, there was among the crowd of spectators one who already regarded him with jealousy. This was Licutenant Nivolson, a commander of one of the Dutch vessels, and who lad made several ineffectial attempts to ingratiate himself jnto the favor, and, it is suspected, the aifec- tions of the Princess, with the view of ultimately becoming Ler husband, and thus obtaining posses- sion of her territories. Finding the interpreter unfit for his office, another was procured from the authorities of Palembang. The name of this one was Kiagoes Lanang, which literally signifies the “ poetical man.” This indi- vidual requested Mr. Gibson to write a letter to the Sultan of Iambee, expressing his desire to visit the capital of that monarch. But the “ poetical man” was also furnished as a spy,as was proved after- wards on Mr. Gibson’s trial at Batavia, where he ap peared as one of the private officers employed in the household of the resident Governor of Palembang. Tn this letter he inserted many inflammatory expres- sions against the Dutch, obviously with a view to implicate Mr. Gibson. It contained considerable abuse of them, and proffers of services and assist- ance from the United States government against tho Dutch. It contained, as may be supposed from this, many inconsistent statements, the absurdity and falsity of which were evident. The principal charge brought against Mr. Gibson by the Dutch authorities there, was tounded upou the contents of this letter, and wes called by the namo of “high treason.” This will, no doubt, appear vory absurd to our fellow citizens, as it is the first time, we believe, they have heard that one of their number owed allegiance to the King of Holland. Besides, Mr. G. was on ind pendent territory, and therefore could not be held “amenable for his conduct while there, a foreign power. ‘This letter was despatched to the Sultan by one of the officers and two guides; but the guides ia this cage were also policemen. Coming to a point up the river called Pulo Carta, the measenger stopped, was arrested with the letter, and carried back a prisoner to the fort. At the same time, Mr. Gibson was enjoying himself of a great feast, which had been given by the Prince Osmin up the country, a short distance from the fort, It may be mentioned and the tin obtained from them is considered su- | Were as an interesting fact, that Osmin, at the perior to any otber in the world, with the exceptio of that procured from one of the adjacent falan’., | acation of Mr.Gibson, hoisted the American flag, taken from the vessel, on the top of @ pole 120 fect named Billiiea, The Dutch goverament is tho solu 4 | igh. This was unquestionably the Gist time th stars and stripes were displayed in this part of Sumatra. Although this was done purely out of compliment to Mr. Gibson, it was considered by the Dutch a mortal offence. Upon arriving on board the Flirt, Commander Nicolson, with twelve marines, came to arrest him; but Mr. G. refusing ta, aceompany unless he produced his ‘warrant, he had to abandon the attempt for this time. Mr. G. threatened to shoot him ifhe persisted, and demanded to know upon what he based his authority. He remained several hours afterwards on board his own vessel, satiefied that he had given no cause for the charges which had been made against him. He addressed a note to the resident Gov- ernor, to know what there had been in his lan- guage or his manner to warrant such a proceeding. At four o’clock in the afternoon of that day, which was March 5,1852, the Assistant Governor of Pa- lembang came with a warrant to arrest him, followed by Nicolson, who was attended by no less than fifty-two of his marines. When Nicolson came on deck he appeared to have no control over his feelings, but cried out in wretched English— “Haul down your flag, you damn Yankee in surrectior -? To this Mr. Gibson replied, that he was accustomed to give orders to Lieutenants, and not to receive them. This cut Nicolson to the quick, for although commander of a vessel, he really held the rank of a mere lieutenant. Then turning to the civil magistrate, Mr. G. said, “ Mr. Storm,” speaking in French, in which the conversation was conducted, “if you have anything to say to me, I will answer you.” Upon which Nicolson drew his sword, and advancing towards him (Mr. G.) said, inas bad Eng- lish as he had used before, “ You dam Yankee Cu- ban thief! I will make you speak to me.” The magistrate now stepped between them, aud requested the “lieutenant” to stand back, where- upon Mr. Gibson sat down on the companion, and afterwards, at the earnest solicitation of the magis- trate, went into his cabin. Before he left, however, he said he would say nothing, and hear nothing, till that drunken lieutenant left the deck of his vessel. After this difficulty, the magistrate told him, with great suavity of manner, that he was sorry he had to request his attendance at the fort as a prisoner, in consequence of a letter which had been sent to the Sultan which contained language inimical to the Dutch government. Mr. Gibson ex- pressed his surprise, but hoped that he would be allowed an opportunity of explaining the matter. During this conversation, Nicolson was engaged ip pull'ng down the American flag, which he tore off the pole, finding it nailed thereto, and flung it into the water, in the view of thousands of the assembled Hatives. Not content with this, however, when Mr. Gibson stepped from the cabin he tore off the brass eagle which stood over the door, and threw it up into the air in the most contemptuous manner, exclaiming in French, ‘This is the way we will sink you d—d Yankees.”’§Mr. Gibson went ashore, having been deprived of an opportunity of making an ex- planation to the Governor, and was at once thrown into acell inthe fort. The resident Governor then called upon him; but he refused to have anything to say to him except in the presence of some of the authorities of our own government. Nicolson was most clamorous to have him shot that afternoon, and in his rage actually tore off his epaulettes, threatening to throw up his commission. After remaining some days in this prison, in an apartment which had been appropriated to the sick of the fort, he was put on board the war vessel Ardjoeno, and sent to Batavia, where he was trans- ferred to the guard ship Boreas, in which he re- mained in close confinement, with two armed seuti- nels at his door. For some length of time he was refused communication with any person except those who were placed over him. Every day of his con- finement he was compelled to appear before a com- mission of judges, appointed to investigate the preliminary circumstances upon which they were to base their charge against him. But after a lapse of time, having meanwhile been refused the aid of couneel, or any per:on to consult with, they allowed him to have an interview with Mr. Reed, acting American agent there ; but itis well known that consuls are not recognized by the Dutch; therefore he could not exercise any official interference in be- half of Mr. Gibson. The charge which Mr. G. makes against him, however, is of a serious character—for it appears that he absolutely prejudiced his case by talking of him in an unjustifiable manner. He said that he had heard reports of Mr. Gibson having boen engaged in selling arms, committing acts of piracy, and other crimes. On the trial at Batavia, nis lan- guage was afterwards recalled, and used to the seri- ous injury of Mr. Gibson. It is also alieged that he said, ‘We have too many of these revolutionary fanatics in America—hang him.” This, Mr. Gibson informs us, was repeated to many of the principal citizens of Batavia, and greatly aggravated the charges against him. When Captain Magruder, of the St. Marys, came to inquire about it, one of the first remarks made to him by the authorities of Batavia was, “‘ Why, his ow n countrymen said that he shonld be hung; and if we had done s0, we would have been supported by the concurrence of the only American representative here.” After an interview with Mr. Gibson, Mr. Reed ex- pressed his sorrow for his rash aud precipitate course; but this regret could not prevent the mischief which had already been done by his imprudence. On the subsequent trial of the case, the legal court of justice in Batavia declared, on the twenty-fifth of February, there was not sufficient foundation to warrant the charge of high treason against him, and ordered him to be set at liberty. Mr. Gibson was thereupon discharged, and en joyed his liberty during two whole days; but, when he was preparing to start, the Governor Genera’ gave directions to the Attorney General to have him re-arrested. On this occasion he was thrown into the worst cell of the Batavian prison, called the Stadsboci. Such was the horrible condition of this cell, that the captain of the American ship Rambler, hearing the condition of Capt. Gibson, went about one o'clock in the morning and roused up the Attorney General, telling him that he would not leave him till better provision was made for the prisoner. ‘This energetic conduct was attonded with the desired result, for Mr. Gibson was immediately after removed to the Weltevreden prison—a healthier location. In this prison he remained about five months. In order to explain the cause of the pro” tracted legal proceedings, it is necessary to make a digression here. It is a singular fact, that all the r 4s who were to appear against Mr. Gibson, being ten in number, weve drowned. They were as follows tommexseln, Paciman Commalsantr9 19 the Army K Ven Ochsee's Cag ' and four others of leower bole, These were ©’ coing in the government prow to visit the secne «i ihe feast given in honor of Mr. Gibson by the Prince Barkaba, from which they ex- d to obtain evidence againat,Mr. G. It hap- I d, however, that the regular steecreman of the prow was sick, and they were compelled to call upon a helf breed, named Valberg, to steer her. This man ad been on board Mr. Gibson’s vessel and re- ceived many favors frou him; mindful, therefore, as it would seem, of the services of his benefactor, and desirous of aseisting him, he took occasion to upset the prow in a rapid part of the stream, drowning every one on board but himself. This occurrence put a stop to the legal proceedings for the time, and qaused the delay of which we have spokoa, Whol PRICE TWO CENTS. months were consumed in the collection of facts and circumstances, from various parts of the Eastern Archipelago, for the purpose of proving the truth of the charges made against Mr. Gibson. After he had remained five months in this penal prison, wait- ing their slow proceedings, he was removed toa well furnished and pleasant apartment; but this leniency was owing to the arrival of the American man-of-war St. Marys. Capt. Magruder, commander of this vessel, hoped at first to effect the immediate liberation of Mr. Gibson. But he could not do any thing more than cause an abatement of the severe treatment to which Mr. Gibson and the eight mem- bers of his crew were subjected. So severe was It, in fact, that twoof his men died under It. Capt. Ma- gruder commenced a correspondence with the Gover- norGeneral, was cavalierly referred to the Hague, and in fact treated him a3 a cypher. We cannot enter into any detail of the various ju- dicial proceedings which followed. Mr. Gibson appeared no less than fifty-three times before the judicial tribunal. There were three preliminary court investigations, and lastly a solemn public trial, which took place upon the fourteenth of February last, and continued for thirteen days. During the continuance of this case, Mr. Gibson, who had been. perfecting himself in his knowledge of the Dutch language, during his long imprisonment, had to act as his own lawyer. The summing up, however, was conducted by Mr. F. Altingruces and Mr. Mathiessen, who had come from Holland expressly to defend the case. Forty-five witnesses were examined upon this trial, which resulted in Mr. Gibson's acquittal, and in awarding him damages to the amount of $32,000 for his detention in prison. Mr.Gibson now considered his sufferings at an end, but was again committed to prison by order of the Governor, and this time was placed under sentence of death. He was now ad- vised by his friends to make his escape, which he succeeded, through their instrumentality, in doing. He escaped from prison on the night of the 24th of April last, and the circumstances attending his escape and flight are among the interesting facts connected with his wonderful adventures. A vessel was in readiness for him at the nearest point on the coast, to convey him to a place of safety. We would mention the name of bis preservers, but are deterred by the knowledge that it would subject them to a fine of $4,000 each, should it be discovered by the Dutch government, and five years imprisonment. Mr. Gibson intends returning soon to the scenes of his persecutions, but it will be under somewhat different auspices, Personal Intelligence. Among the passengera in the steamship Asia, to leave today for Liverpool, are Sencr Larrainzer, (Minister from Mexico to Rome) lady and family; Mr. Whitworth the well known machine maker, and Professor Wallis (Commissioners from Great Britain to the New York Fx- hibition.) Mr. Aston and two Mr. Peels (nephews of the late Sir R. Peel.) Capt. Jiot, one of the directors of the Royal West India Mail Company, and about eighty otkers. Tak Britis Commissioners —The Earl of Edesmere and Sir Charles Lyell have, as our readers are aware, already éeparted for England. Mr. Whitworth aud Mc. Wallis sail in the Asia on Wednesday, thus leaving only ir, Dilke and Profercor Wilson, who intend staying until after the Agri- cultural Fairs have been held, in tie fall. Mr. Treat, the Colleeter recently appointed for the of Belfast, bas resigned, and Hon ate meaber of Congress, has been appoin Ir. Bentick Doyle, E-q., British Consul at Santa Martha, accompanied by his family, ore pasergera in th? schooner Alfaretta, which was at Key Weston the dd inst., bond for this port, ort a, Captain Wm. Metiain B Crocien, Oswezo; Capt ‘offim, United States Navy wo W, Wright, Ex Con 1. Browning, South Caro- and areat the Metropo- ts H a Sissippi; bor gressm <n, Califoruia, and Hon. lira, srrived im tho city yesterd litan, ARRIVALS. From § i z Hon G W Wright, Major Allau a Sberman_ USA, Capt R Im alls, Us Herace Leach, Dé Chapman, WA. slireve, iis Hi yCpenrell E collin, H K€ 1 each and taent, Mrs Pebsl eek i nn Lebdol J F Vandewater, tisury: Te, W TH Read, A Gordon, JM Fisher, JN ed, Daniel Denmark, W Gi, W. Tate, By Sh N CStery. C $n ‘ang Indy, N Fleteher, W Hur Ponss, RC Chany wel bh W Reyas, J C Birg, W 8 Drak T Sellen J Roberts, WIL Koberta, JK bikoman, Mra & " k und infant J K Parry, AC Barry, C Falkner, rad ‘ames Dendill, S Wooster, J T Lang C M Hiwro (ees Ht Manly, J Flotchor, W Willismson, © D Slocum, JC Slocum, John Lacy, Buell, J € Scot P Lansing, Gw Brown, J A Emery, a Cull, Ti G. Ss Sheppard, W” McDougal a) Stanly, J Howard, WH Hogs, J hen, B Pirner. X Chaties, R Danisle and Indy, It rh RK Hoops, LG Walker, A’ N Frey, T Carnott, Jo W Prce,M Holmes, MW Erni, Ded S Trowbridge, Me Carter, HL Massy, and S10 In the steerage. From Charleston, in the Steamship Southorner—Miss c a Joy and lady, J, Todd, Ii Wells, SN neon, Mr Hart, J Dh © Reade, and servant, RH Northrup, 3 ter Wost, A Tapniancon, A Gordon, John in the steomehip Isabol—A Palino, A Y Stoport, M Stern, M Duvicarras, F usan, daugh gon Rolling, Mr Lamar, lady, child and servant, 2 Cruckaiiank snd twos JP Boll and on, JM Borges. M Irineriz and lady, Jose © M Bolorro, Me avbfiele, Soha , Ia Jolin Bastrda, Joh nbati, M Morner, Captain Hor H1 Set mitz, Acn Drower, Mre L PW hiteriit it Lineerkoil, ¢ Sehmtde. DEPARTURES. Bormnda and St Th er, Mian Tago, Mra W ‘apt Knox, JW. How. ) Heim, US Comm bY ¥ jehmond, in ston Ren W R Murray, Baldwin, Wa i Mt lady Jon Don Whitton, Mrs corge City, JK Wise, 1 Wis rand child 1 Creth ney, J Hi Gost ‘ady and thres children. Thomas Jon: on, E Smith, John Whyte, Dennii 1 Francieco, in ship Mandarin—D I Daugliss, Mes Joseph F \twit, 3 rah B Atwill, Miss Eizo B Aiwill, Mire Mery J Atwi #6 A Atwill, Joseph F Atwill, Jr, Mrs Senes aud duu , Misa Jone Our Key West Correspontene, Kev West, Augast 4, 1853. Appointments—Court Martial— Important admirally Court Dreision, he, de Lieutedant Selden, Ucited states navy, bas been ap- pointed inepeo‘or of the Light bouses and floating lights of this di-trict, Te arrived out inthe United States schooner WR. King, en the 224 ultimo. Lieutenant H. G. Wright, Engineer Corps United States army, came paccenger in the steamship James L, Day on the Ist of Augast and will proceed immediately to Gar- don Key Tircegas, to take charge of the fortiasations now in procese of @ ection at that point. The late ap propriation of hundred thoneand dollars belog now available, the w wilt he actively resumed, Captain Vord United States army, hes been oréered w Tempa. to attend @ court martia), convenrd st Fort Brocks by nd of General Childs, Captsia V. ailed in the m Oke, States army, wasin Jirect from Fort Meade, acd reports the ty Court, has, in m late aisston charged by mer- chante, on ral oge 1 into court, shail, in tne tine, be 6 por cent on five thousand dollars, aud on fume above that amoont 2% per cent. Toe legal charge for re shipping cargo shall be 11f per osnt, When the commission merchant in a party interested in the soleage, no charge of commission on salvage rooney shall be altowed. The J ecree may be rail to be final—there beirg ro appesl in this court when the sum iavolved is less than two thousand dollars, ard no salvage pald into the A al alty Court wonld yield a sum wt ‘ho re! + oo the amount, that would gira the comm sri00 bent a fee ae enough onesie lim ty Comerd an appeal, if he desired an the nitiot legality of this law ‘ine higher court, ie deores, decided thet t ARRIVAL OF THE STAR OF THE WEST. TWO WEEKS LATER FROM CALIFORNIA, A Million and a Half on the Wy. Two More Towns Destroyed. POLITICAL INTELLIGENCE. THE BOBBER JOAQUIN. INTERESTING ITEMS. ae MARRIAGES, BIRTHS, AND DEATHS. MARKETS, Sion Sit Site Steamship Star of the West, Capt. EL, Tinklepaug’s, ar- rived at one o'clock yesterday, in 7 days, 19 hours, from Sen Juan del Norte, with four hundred and fifty-three passengers, $557,337 in gold dust on freight, and $500,060 in the hands of passengers. She brings San Franolsee dates per Pacific steamship Brother Jonathan, to three o'clock P. M of 16th ult. The British Royal West India mail steamship Avon wae lying in port, to sail 6th inst. Annexed is the list of treasure on freight, on board the Star of the West :— Awerican Ex. Bk, .$204,000 Spotford ETileston, 6,800 We are indebted to Mr. B.S. Hopkins, purser of the Star ef the West; Mr James A. Gilbert of thy New Dapot ef San Francisco; J. W. Sullivan, of the San Francisco News office; and to the eqpresses of Walla, Fargo & Co., and Berford & Co., for favors and Californis, hag steamship John L. Stevens left San Francisco on the 16th ult., for Panama, having on board nearly « mil- fiom and w half of dollars in specie, consigned as Sol- lows :— Poge, Bacon & Co..8108 C00 J.B, Thomas...... $14 800 Adams & Co, 400 000 Masontray & Co. 82 616 Burgoyne &Co.,., 250.000 Case, Heiser & Co., 20,207 Wels, Fargo & Go, F, Argenti & Co, R. Davidson... Querewu & Job Total ‘The following are the parce pbens:= Jamis Sirouce, CC Williams, J Minturn, P Fowler, Ceptein War 1, Dail Capiatn Wan © srout, Captain BL ‘ing, Geo W Williams, L skinner, Jolin Baxter. J Waten 3 Meade, I Connorand lady, ME Astier, 8 M Hdl, David Hickey, Susapna Hickey, Mary I ma Elie, Thomas Carlin, John Moore, Vaientiae Derailoy ites Mary Richard: and infent, Purser Henry K Angus, f Cathoat, H Dosk. Welis, Fargo & Co, Adams & Co, J Blithsll, Ser- ford & Co, J Nye and lady, 2: D Casteee, It G Parout’ Misa Cone, Mrs Cone avd child, J Jones, G Jones. H Buraa, J.0 Baumlee, H C Gereush, J CJ Casehove, F Hopkins, 4 s Leyton, T kwing, RA @ Homer, G Johas, J Park, R Mol- Ington, G Pritch, PP scbeldt, Mrs Nelson, A H sayer, TS Hasweli M Parberry, Mrs Pexton and child, C Cody, RB Mckiroy, WG Abby, H J Taylor, C Carrier, Johm Cotter. DP MeDonald, L Dewey, J Marks, P Partridge, in, James Lawyer, JB Kiohmond, Mrs Q er, J Lovg J Fairly, J Yard, Misa Story, . RA Eéea, 5 L Porter, G Storer, Mr Rey lady ard servant, H L Cove, Sirs Gardner, J Vincent, f Lrown, Mrs Berrsin, RJ Lewis, Miss B Fanny, hire Crocke:t, J Kennedy, C Gatheut, L Star, V Levally, SS Beredick” H Uhbrick, WJ Young, H Willis, W Robia- tov, PC Filboy, 8 Wood, J U Walker L Fomter. J Juha- sop, J Rist, ofr Maciey, L Clr. DD Boyee, E Curren, A Dierco, L Allen, J Williams, BB Conneil, J Livingstoa, SW Watson, D'R and G W swith, Inge: RK Wiliams, BF Nogent, J Thompson and lady, FE Sweeney, RJ War: xev, S Madison, AH Gearhead, BF Clark, GBulfum, W 8 Coats, AC Coats, H Buron, GT Lawse, E Paradise, D Quillen'P Bierce, 'P Howard, J Carmichael, G Hildeo, 8 Mocre, TCiarlin, J Sews, VC Chandler, J Hallam, JM Noxthup, J Luce, J Jamar, Me Bower, QJ Quett, D Mur- . C Moore, Mr Barz, W Sourlett, MC.rcete, C Barcett, EXarlett, ©’ Biglow, J Foreman L Scarlett Mf Corrass, Y Urruthia, P Rengon, R Wiloa J Potueman, S Seyman, HJ Couchman, © Lawdor, 2 Eastland, fs, Grigsby, Roche, Seeery, Goodman, Millon, Se ayer, J Draper, White, and Osporne; M Harragon, G W re, H Booth, Coble ard sox, W Ol'ver, R Robins, Bi J Brower, J Sileysen, M Bowers, N Swasey, J Muse, "D Johnvom Bamiip, S_ Leverett, P Bissell, Partritta, Scclia, J Dow, J Tyler, Mr McCracken, Mc Halemsn, Mr Birchley, Mr. Stores, Mr. Berney’ V Sweet, W Snith, Mr Cunningham, MrSuow, JSmith, J White. Mr Macnere, J Hosett,abir Madry, Me Cluny, W Sinith, Lafforiett, Sharp, Kvex, J Chambers JH Choinbers, J Comsrock, Sanders ahaid, Johnson, Williams, D Young, KR Burrer, P Rorald, A Russ and’ brocher, Gerrouse, G S’ Weston, Dr Smith, G Crauch, Joa Fay, Stanbecy, J Ward, J Hart, A Paillios, J Paiiips, oven Cushiaan & Faller, J Hickersou, Laue, Keeay, H Finny and two children, R Euis, D Mulnix, D Rodbdics,O A Jewett, C Sicell, J 4 Heros, O. Kear, Wilson J Cauaingham, @ Horine, C Warts, N Evava, 0 Waeeler, K Edge, @ 'Bd- wordr, J Hyco, Biackiidgo Parks, R hives, H tanany O Webb, G Sloan, J Dull, Fasherseli, Mrs Richards a two children, Mr Burbank, C Porier, Stauies, D E Bowen, G Sibley, McCory, SaCortzey, G Douglass, C Vaugho, J Lawson, @ Sabia, Parker, N Blackbora, Blan- chard, Fasrett, Sayse’ G Whitmore, J Andras, H P Taylor, MeCullough, Bol, Plumoader, Bell Burb Brovett, Hatha ‘A Eaton. J Stephens, C ge Avery, G Winston, H Pick. Mealeer, G Tannor, J Cashion, G Bruck, G Lester, Dickinson, C Gailad, G Pomeroy, G Penvyman, G Dallavd, Banners, McKinstry, G Donenn, 'G Isbell, P Riitie, C Nichols, A Fisk, N TRobin-on Cornell, J Poster, C Martin, B Marswell, Pell, C Fry. Thurston, Eoglass, Davis, J Patterson,” R Biythe, Whitney, C Smith, $ Walton, J Steir, CSharp, @ Cano, J Broket, Wescott, € Tayler, Ruth, Crivehti Prosser, Hall, © Rice, GCorie, © Gqia, M Rosewith Justier, J Maynard. @ B Walker, WA Benjamin, H Par- ker, N’Soies, Wm Wilson, J Calbot, @ Lawis, HM Fay, J M Cor ell! J Smither, G Howell, E Maron, H Daven- port J Woods, iow, TBradbury, J P Ctark, J Pooller. A Ha} D Lippencott, 1 D Hold- wan, © H Fiecher r, D wv Brown, W Nobles, J Woodman, FS Aroold TC Cibo, WO Hillon, F Osborae, C Smith, th JGuoup JM Buoniog inclair and Mies Ellen Bruce are starring among the ‘ Provincials.”” Theatricals are well patronized. There are two Ame- rican and cne French theatre, all doing a healthy bust- ness, in San Franoleco. James Collier, formerly collector of San Francisco, has been indicted by the grand jary of the county, for felo- niously uring money belonging to the United States. The country betweea the Calaveras and Mokelumae rivers is thriving in its agriculture, The population bas increased greatly since lest season, The soil seems to er Jers from drouth than that of our Southern plains, Fyuit iy most successfully cultivated. A letter from Captain Love, of the California Rangers states that he has captured the brother of the notorious robber, Joaquin, who has offered, on a promise of being reliased, t2 conduct the Rangers to the place of coaceal- nev’ of Joaquin ood his gang. 4 large number of horse thieves are concesled in the wountaias, back of San Jaan, and between that place and Tulares Valley. ‘The new members of the Land Commission organized the Board on the 6th inst, The membors were all prevent, viz :—Alpheas Folch, Taompgon Carapbell, and R.A. Thompson. V,& Howard, U.S Law Agent, and Robert Greenbow, Associate Law Agent. Gooege Fischer, Secretary and Samuel Marx, Deputy Marelial. Av immense business in the way of mirupg is doing at White Rock, feur miles from Placerville. Rich diggings have also,been discovered in the hills at ie head of Rich Gulch, Oce of the parties sunk a sheipgome thirty fost and took ten ounces of gold from eight’ buckets of dirt. Six months go, where now stan’s the handseme vil- lage of Ione Valley.’ there was noha bouse; now there are geet dwelling hous, bytes, a ehteoh, livery ba scameoto (iy have paid the prizeipal acu interest of ¢ geil, bonds ol, ia Call- fornia avd in New York, amonyring to $LiQ. 000, The summer fires have dons touch dawege tain and valley Large ques of gran, destroyed in various parts ew 8 te The wheat crops in movt of the ogaloaltuyal districts, are suffering from rast. A fire ocourred in Sin Brancirepon the 4, of gels ia a wooden building on ‘46 sou’n ea: corn Kearney etreets, whicis dostroged the Sy" SLL,CO0 worth of progarty New gold diggings have bisa ay, river, The repo: 4was that the mi aver one dollar 49 <0 50 ven more thaa that, with prospects, ~ i tuibing rion lends ix tbe nei F ne ee eee eats Loe, t mentber of wack before the Sacrameeto fColact cousty cut W cig ae hi als ty eee inna » moun- vered at Uapqua, 8 were taking out