The New York Herald Newspaper, December 22, 1854, Page 1

THE NEW YORK HERALD. WHOLE NO. 6693. AFFAIRS IN WASHINGTON. THIRTY-TAIRD VONGRESS. BEOOND SESSION. Senate. Wasarxaton, Dec. 21, 1854. RELIGIOUS LIBERTY ABROAD. Me. Suprit, (dem.) of La., presented » petition in ‘Tavor of Americans abroad beiog privileged to worship, marry, and bury the dead, according to the dictates of their own consciences. HARBOR IMPROVEMENTS, Ne ‘Mr. Srvazt, (dem.) of Mich., presented a bill for the improvement of lake harbors. Referred to the Commit- tee on Commerce. Mr. Foor, (whig) of Vt , introduced a bill for Gnishing the breakwater on Lake Champiain, and argued that Dut $18,000 was necessary to finish what government bad begun; that Lake Champlain, lying between New York and Vermont, and extending into Canada, had « political as wellas commercial importance; that the constitutional objectiona urged against other bills do not apply to this, and that in the event of war it would be indispensably necessary that the works should be com- pleted. Referred to the Committee on Commerce. ‘MEDIATION OF THE UNITED STATES IN THE BUROPRAN WAR. Mr. Suunen, (free soil) of Mass., oftered a resolution that the Committee on Forsign A'faira be directe.l to con- sider the expediency of tendering the mediation of the ‘United States to the governments of Great Britain, France and Turkey, on the one size, and of Russia on the ether, in the hope of withdrawing the existing con- ‘troverny between them from the destructive umpirage of war, so that the blessings of peace may be securod to the people of those nations, and also to the goneral com- merce of the world. ‘Mr. Rusx—Let it lie over. ‘THE PILOT LAWS. ‘Mr. Stivet, (dem.) of La., moved that the Committee om Commerce be instructed to sve what legislation is ne- cossary to prevent a conflict botween the laws of the sevtral States in reference to pilotage. ADJOURNMENT. Mr. Bavarr, (whig) of N.C., moved that the Senate mect to-morrow, and then adjourn till Tuesday—Monday ‘being Christmas day, Agreed to. NAVY YARD AT BRUNSWICK, Mr. Dawson, (whig) of Ga., presented from the Gover- nor of Georgia the joint resolution of the Legislature of that State, for the establishment of » navy yard at Branwick. Mr. Bropurap, (dem.) of Ps., called up the bill pro- viding for the establishment of a court of investigation for claims. Mr? Cass, (dem.) of Mich, hoped that something would be done to relieve Congress to promptly settle clasns, and to prevent fraud. He was not particular how this was effected, but it was indispensable that it should be done. ‘Mr. Wetter, (dem.) of Cal., moved to strike out court, and insert beard of commissioners, because judges, from the nature of their appointments, are permanent, but commissioners are removable. Mr. Browy, (dem.) of Miss., opposed the bdiil maialy on the constitutional objections to the payment of the “TE ibaten, (dom) of Vo., replied to the objecti x i 'a.y Te) objections of Movers. Brown and Weller’ Mr. Prarz, (whig) of Md,, spoke in favor of the bill. . WELIER in support of his amendment. Mr. Crartoy, (whig) of Bel, spoke in favor of the measure. ard w! the necessity of having » primary exemination of ing 80 as to save the tune, labor ant confusion resulting from the present course. Mr. Brown reiterated his objection, and said the court would cost more to suitors than 8 board of com- snissioners or the present mode of settling claims. Mr. Hunter denied this, and spoke of tae Jarge sums — prid by claimants in order to get thoir claims Me. Cuass, (free soil) of Otio, sad the tribunal pro- was nota court—merely a board, similar to the fasters in Chancery, for reporting cases. Tho appoint. ments should be for s term of years, He entered into a Br a of general ee hee yb not ee han to is and said he was in favor of electing the judges Of the federal courts for I'm td terms only. Mr. Borirr, (dem.) of S. C., was in favor of the tri. bvunal, court, or board; particularly as it would be s check against slaim agents. He then eulogised the South Carolina courts and Judge Ruftin’s decisions. Mr. Wsusr ied—The board of commissioners would resemble elective judiciary in the new States, where the elective justices are quite aa distin- guished as those by the governors. Mr. Stuart, (dem.) of Mich., spoke against the amend- ment of Mr. Weller, Mr. Dovdtas, (dech.) of Ill., endorsed his sentiments, and said that nothing sbort of a tribunal with the - aly ae United ites Court, could command hi 7 01 a Weller’s amendment was defeated. Yess 16, nays ‘The bill was passed. Mal IL CONTRACTS, Mr. Jones, (whig) of Tenn., submitted @ resolution —— Postmaster-Genoral to inform the Senate ® contract has been made for the carrying of the-maile from Cairo to New Orleans, as directed by an act of last session; and if not, why? PETITIONS. Mr. Attxy, (dem.) of R. I., presented resolutions from the Legislature of Rhode Island, in reference to pensions and bounty to officers, soldiers and sailors, who served in the war of 1812. In favor of the establishment of a mavy yard in Narragansett bay, and n cheap ocean post- age. Fach were appropriately referred. After a brief executive session, the Senate adjourned. House of Representatives. ‘Wasminaton, Deo. 21, 1854. CORRRIPONDENCE IN THR CASE OF CAPT. GIRSON. ‘The Brnaxer laid before the House a message from the ‘President of the United States, commun'cating the cor- respondence between the Secretary of State and the go- vernment of the Netherlands relative to Capt. Gibson’s case, Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. Mr. Orr, (dem.) of 8. C., exprossed the hope that the covamittee would give the subject their earnest and most considerate attention. It seems that the diptoma- ‘tie efforts of the government to adjust this matter have failed. He trusted the committee would report satan early day, PROTECTION OF UNITKD STATES OFFICERS IN THE EXECUTION OF THE LAWS. On motion of Mr. Staxtoy, (dem.) of Tenn., the Com- ‘mittee on the Judiciary was instructed to inquire whe- “ther farther legislation is necessary for the better pro- tection of officers of the United States and others en- gaged in the execution of the laws thereof, and to report dy ball or otherwise, ‘PUBLIC WORKS IN WISCONSIN. Mr. Macy, (dem.) of Wis., introduced bills for the completion of certain public. works heretofore com- vmeneed in Wisconsin. Referred to Committee on Com- merce. RESOLUTIONS AND BILLS INTRODUCED, MreSmacows, (whig) of N. Y., introduced s resola- tion, which was adopted, instructing the Committee on Commeree to inquire into tne expediency of providing “py law or otherwise for the completion of the breakwa- ter at Plattsburg, and the purchase of a site fo: a post office, custom houre end courts. Mr. Surrn, (dem.) of Va., introduced resolutions, which were adopted, instructing the Committes on Com- ‘merce to inquire into the expediency of purchasing lots and erecting buildings for custom houses, post offices and courts in Alexandria, Va. Mr, Vansant, (dem.) of Mé., introduced a bill for a- milar purposes in Baltimore, which was adopted. Mr. Zoutucorver, (whig) of Tenn., introduced a bill regulating the rights of suffrage in territories of the United States. Referred to the Committee on Territo- a STOCKH—GAS AND WATER FOR GRORGETOWN. ‘The bill authorizing the Corporation of Georgetown to impove special taxes to enable it to subscribe to the tan railroad stocks, light the streets, and sup- ply the intabitants with water, was passed. RUFORM IN THE JUDICIARY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMMIA. ‘Mr. Mar, f Md., from the Cammittee on the Judiciary, len) af oiennn | the courts in the District of Columbia, and reforming and i ing the laws thereof: He showed how ancleat, slow, ex] and jent the present a and ex- that bin 8 to lish all existing 2 ourts —_ se . “yaaa institute others ‘detter enl Mr. Euor, (w i ., replied, defending. the a ying the power of Congress under the constitution, 10 legislate the Judges out of office. He understood people of the District have not been deard he subject, as was usual in the cases of revo- fensd on tne nts,” Unter the speration of the previous juestion. Dill was rushe: read, 4g ; ithout be: Magee enon, Cehig}) uf bean., raised the question hi Ween tone or t to pass the bill without ite "Tho Brean replied that the question was raised too eating, tha guemtion on the pusaag of tho bill, the through the preliminary Our Washington Correspondence. Wasuisaton, Dec. 20, 1854. New Turn in the Know Nothing Question—American Labor Against Pauperism and Free Negroism—Know Nothings in South Carolina—Wise and Virginia—The South Becoming Know Nothing—The Houses of Congress —United States Supreme Court. The final issue which is to decide the fate of theKnow Nothing party as a national organization is at hand. It remains with the order to decide it for themselves. I have taken some pains to inform myfelf in regard to the temper of the leading men here, and many regard this movement of vital importance. The reasons are cogent, and at this juncture of affairs the truco facts should be known. Mr. Barry, of Mississippi, touched the key note of this question when, in opposing it, he said it was an “organization of labor,’ and Mr. Banks in reply echoed this sentiment. The impression is daily gaining ground among Southern men here, that the Know Nothing movement possesses a deeper significance than is noticed on its surface, and they are beginning to open their eyes to this special meaning of the order. They begin to realize that it is not a political movement, and that religious fanatica and political aspirants are at- tempting to make use of this sentiment of American white labor for their own purposes. In short the idea is current among Southern men that this Know Nothing movement iss moverhent of American white Iabor— that this labor, with the instinct of sclf-preservation fs simply resisting pauperism. As I heard a prominent Southern man remark the other day, ‘The same princi- ple which makes Northern men strike against pauperism will make it strike against Africanism, free negroism abolitionism and federalism.” This is true, and it ré mains to be seen if Southern men will array themselves against this movement of Northern labor (for such it undoubtedly is) for mere party purposes. Will the South gratuitously place herself in opposition to the Isboring classes of the South? Heretofore all encroach- ments on the rights of the North have come from the chairt of professors, from the pulpits, from the bench, and from other high places of political influence. Men occupying these positions in the North can advocate free im with impunity, so far as endangering their own interests. Longfellow knows well that his seat at Can- bridge will never be contested by a free negro; Seward well knows that a free negro will never divide honors with bim, and Mr. Beecher never suspects that his pul- pit will be shared with one of these sweet -scented dark- ies. The privi classes of the: North, who alone heretofore have filled the abolition ranks, know from in- stinct and reason that, practically, they will never suffer from the curse of free negroism. lence they have ever omposed the South. How different is {t with labor. © laboring man’s children, only in the event of equality of blacks and whites, will associate with the free ro children. The Northern mechanic would, under the away of Greeley, work side by side with free negro Jabor. son shows that white labor, American labor alone, would suffer from Africanizing the country, and hence Southern men say ‘this labor has always been against tho abolitionized and aristocratic tenden- cies of the Northern whig party, and with the “Southe:n democratic party.’’ As startling as the announcement may seom,the great State of Virginia is Know Nothing, and stranger yet, South Carolina is the same. Alabama is going over like atorrent. Even in the district of the Hon. G. S. Hous- ton of that State, leading democrats are joining the or- der, while an universal sympatby extends to the order from outsiders. In Mississippl the strongholds of the democratic party are giving way. In Georgia the sen- timent is almost unanimous. The people of the South consider this new order a movement of labor to save it- self from pauperism and negroism, and they say to it “God spend.” Gentlemen may disguise it as they please, but such they know to be Southern sentiments, and furthermore they a this sentiment will bo strengthened by the defeat of Seward, and the South like a whirlwind. are not random suggestions, but good wholesome truths, and events now rapidly ‘developing will prove it. f would not be at all surprised to find more than one pto- minent democrat fake this position openly in the House. Understand me. They de not perhaps sanction oF fend the “secrets’’ of the order, or the “oath test,’ or its religious color, if it has any; nor do they surren- der one particle of their const ‘tutional principles—not at all; but they are going to stand by the uprising of Northern labor. They regard this sentiment as Ameri- cap, national and right. My word for it, 60 soon as the question fully and openly takes this shape, which it fs speedily doing, the South will go body aad soul with this American movement; and an address from the Northern laboring classes to the South, setting forth this as the real issue, would meet with an enthusiastic concurrence not equalled before in our political history. Cannot there be an address sent forth from the North, say from & mass meeting in the Park. Could not something be said about Cuba—something like this, to the South, ‘You stand by us in our fight against pauperism in the shape of pauper labor from Europe, abolitionism and frce-negroism, and we will stand by you on the Cuba question.” I believe, from the signs cf the timos in‘ Washingten, such an address from the Northern masses would stimulate a ‘‘caweus’’ here in a week's time, and end in a ‘‘bolt’’ from old parties equal to that in 1850. Southern men say, ‘‘the defeat of Seward will have a great effect towards this end; but an expression of the sectiment of the masses of the North would in the meanwhile prepare the way.” One thing which is being watched at the South is the effect the Know Nothing party will have in curtailing the abolitionized German vote. Southern men are opposed to Sam Hous- ton aa the Know Nothing candidate for the Presidency. His nominatio® will upsct the order at the South en- tirely, The Southern men would prefer some servative man from the North, to Houston or od hi stripe, though they come from south of Mason & Dixon's ine. It is the impression hero that Wise will be defeated in Virginia. The only chance of his election is in his get- ting the whig vote. Asa member from Virginia re- marked the other day, ‘he will be elected by a very large majority, or be badly ‘beaten.’’ It is most likely he w be badly’ beaten—that is, if the American party cecupy in public opinion, in the Old Dominion. the high national grounds I have suggested. This is the true condition of the Know Nothing ques- tion at the South. Brooks, from South Carolina, early last session, made a great speech on this very issue, favoring the American party. Now is the time for him to lead off. Iam told he has talents, courage and popu- larity. I am not yet well enough acquainted with him to speak of his “points,” from my own knowledge. Why don’t Brooks come out? Where ara those Southern rights men who have always resisted the abvlitionized party of the North? Will they Place the South in oppo- sition to the laboring masses of the Northern States, in the efforts of the latter to resist pauperis? Time will tell. The correspondent of the Baltimore Sun, some one lately said, says that labor in this country is to be yet lower, an 8 as the cause the rapidly fperenslay emigration. Very true. Already there are over fifteen thousand families in the city of New York alone, and American labor is now driven unemployed to the very point of starvation itself, by European pauper labor ; and this correspondent to the Baltimore press thinks there will be more of it. No doubt of that. But yet this appeal of American labor for protection from that flood of pauperism which is deluging the land and overflowing all the ave- sues of fndnstry, in denouveed as’ treason, sod the valiant outa is called upon to choke down this American cry for bread. Let Southern men ponder over this. For if they lend thems:ives in opposition to this Northern worement against free negroism and pauper- lem in every shape, they would cestainly receive, as they deserve, the deadly have ever been their truest friends. Let the Southern ple unite with es tna masses —s cn ol thing camp upon this issue, to oppose the pauperising tendencies of abolitionism, and such Mom! tion wit sweep the South from stem to stern. pin gsr Nothing of importance was done to-day in either house of Congress. The Senate went into an executive session in the afternoon, and, as I learned, after a long and exciting debate, rejected the nomination by the Pre- sident of Mr. Grund, Consul to Marseilles In the United States Supreme Court the case _w: gned of the “Propeller Monticello, Johu Wilson{ master and claimant,and appellant, ve. Glibert Mollison, libel- lant.’’ This isa case of collision betweea the propel- lor Monticello and pp pote bce he rags i ron, in September, 1 yy which the latter ani Mine cave wag argued to-day by Be H. Gillett were lost. The case was argu y on the part of the Cape and A. P. Grant, of Os- ‘wego, New York, on the part of the libellants. NELLE, Wasmnartor, Dec. 21, 1854. Our Minéster to Mexico—General Gadeden in Bad Odor— The Monroe Doctrine Violated—The Belmont Corres’ pondence—The Delegate from Kansas, @c., dc. ‘Things are approaching ® crisis with the American Minister near the Mexican government, and Mr. Marcy is sore to the very quick w.th the total inefficiency of his diplomatic course. It seems he has accomplished literally nothing towards obtaining from that govern- ment a recognition of the rights of the American citizens who are now suing for redress of injuries inflicted upon them by Mexico. It may be true that that poor and im- becile government has not the funds with which to pay these indemnities, yet it was the duty of our Minister to require ber to recognise the justice of our claims, theagh unable to pay them, and not permit the claimants to be placed in the false attitude of demanding what wae not their due. The reason assigned for his inefficiency, by himeelf, is that Santa Anna was treated badly, very badly, by the United States, in not ratifying the troaty providing for five millions to be retained A this gov- ernment, out of which to satisfy all claims for indemni- . After this refusal on the part of our ment to aye pay agent for Mexico, the latter to settle own matters of account, f¢ , Mr. Gadaden tells it es Ay 2 his de- mand w governmen: our jaatice. But while Mr. Marcy is sick of his inefficiency and want of determination, and desires to rid the administration of bis diplomatic ale nila the tk Gadaden is even in worse + if possible, the Mexican govornmeat. | | | opposition of those who are now ard | \ | more war steamers, and he will probabl MORNING EDITION—FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1854. This the as T have reason to believe, the Debt fa that if General G. does not desir a eeali Upon him the necessity of changing his locality: Weep ent s the path chalked out by the this lent in his inaugural? correspondence Mr. Belmont, our Minis- ter the Hague, and Mr. Marey, Secretary of State, on the subject of Cept. Gidson’s claim for indemnity from the Dutch government for imprisonment, detention and loss of » will be communicated to Congress to- Belinont—that he bas been maliog: the ffsert soreness: 2 . tations to our government in pe while pbc cnpanct pet aa te ya, es seems, De wee sopra own effo: making adverse re) atations to the Dut Rithorities new delegate from Kansas, (General Whitdeld, ) made bis appearance in the Re; ‘tative Hall yester- day, and was sworn in. General W. is a fi pr wed of manhood, being upwards of nix feet in heigl as an Indian, well florid complexion, anda keen, just the man to win in a new country. straight it features, Wasatnaros, Dec. 21, 1854. Removal of the Museum from the Patent Office to the Smith- sonian Institute—Improvements. As far back as 1846 it was urged in Congress to remove the museum, located in the Patent Office Building to some more convenient site. I learn that during tho pre- sent seasion a bill will be introduced to effect this object, and that the place selected for these national curiosities and mementoes will be the Smithson‘an Institute, in the large hall just finished. This will bea decided im ry vaya as the feeble and infirm in -health will not ave fo travel up several flight of stairs as at present to view them. There have been lags alterations made in the Smith- soni tute dui ¢ present year, and those of a mont useful characters A ow lecture tom hav ‘been fitted up, which will comfortably seat 1,500 persons. It is exceedingly well adapted for hearing as woll as seoing from all parts. lunderstand that it will be opened to. morrow night for the first time, when a lecture will be given. Qa OTHER CORRESPONDENCE. (Correspondence of the North American.} Wasumnator, Dec. 16, 1854. The lariff Bills—Senator a ee Wheeling Bridge je. The most important question on which there is likel to be any action at this session of Congress, 1s the tariff, The indications are daily becoming stronger that the Committee of Ways and Means and a large majority of the ruling party in the House of Represontatives are disposed to carry through some plan for the mate- rial modification of the present system; and the worst rojeet yet iy Pat seems to find geen behid ¢ bill re aummer by the majority of tho Committee of Ways and Moans asa ubstitute for that submitted by the Secretary of the Treasury. Iregret to y that the report accompanying the former bill wi igned by Mr. Havens, of New York, a whig. Mr. Rob- bins, of Pennsylvania, and Mr. Appleton, of Boston, presented another report and bill, which in a whig House would probably be adopted as the basis for whatever ney be done on the subject ¢ plan submitted by the Secretary of the Treasu: to divides the dutiable imports into two schedules, liable 100 and 26 per cent duty respectively, The operations of this bill, as illustrated by estimates based on the im- portations of 1852-3, wonld be as follows:— @ Foroneyear. Av’geof siz years. At 100 per cent amount of or ci duties.......0.+. + $3,827,798 $2,542,039 At25 percent “ ....., 43,881,622 $81,100,978 Totalss.,........++.-++.$47,709,820 $03,643,818 The corresponding results of the bill reported by'the committee would be:— At 100 per cent. $2,642,039 At 20per cent, 24,476,181 At 15 per cent, 2,100,143 At 10 per cent , At 5 percent. 3, Totals......0.... ..+,..$43,767,081 $30,933,311 The present tariff produces— One year. Av'ge for siz y'rs. At 100 per cent - $3,827,195 $2,542,039 At 40, 90, 25, 5 per cent, 54,254,502 88,805,769 Totals. 072.390 $40,907,718 Now, rage production of the ly forty. maillions hy change it? system is only forty mi @ year, wi Certainly the rate of the public expenditure does not re quire it, Mr, Secretary Guthrie spent last year $74,000,- C00, including $24,000,000 us principal and interest of the public debt, and exclusive of the public debt $51,- 000,600. He estimates the expenditure of this year, ex- clusive of disbursements for redemption of debt, at $04,- 845,000, His ascertained and estimated receipts for the year are boa igor But it is manifest that the expea- ditures for year aro under estimated, and the re- ceipts over estimated. Dobbin wants nine et them from this obedient Congress. This will take ,000, Col. Davis asks for four additional regiments of troops, That item will add $1,000,000 to this year’sexpenses. So that the usual and ordinary expenditures will not fall below $70,000,000 for the year. Now the revenue is falling off at the rate of $2,000,000 & month, and the entire de- crease for the year, {fom customs, will be at the present rate, about $17,000,000, and may go to twenty millions. The receipts of the whole year, therefore, cannot be cal- culated at over sixty millions, allowing for full sales of public lands. I think afty-five millions is not below th true mark, There will be then an actual deficit of means arising within the year, and the present surplus of twenty-five millions will be reduced to ten millions on the Ist of July next. The friends of the prptective poliey should exert them: selves to postpone all action on the subject until the meeting of another Congress, when the actual state of the revenue will no doubt require rather an increase than a reduction of duties. But the question to be de- cided (s also one of principle, which must not be disre- garded; we must have protection to home industry. ‘The country is ripe for it, and demandsit. That is the prin- ciple which was recognized in forming the tariff of 184: and which was blinked in the preparation of that 1846. The operation of the tariff of 1842 was beneficent and successful. Ita successor ro to operate passa- Mr, Secretary bly well during the times of high prosperity caused by the enormous foretgn de for our breadstuffs, and by the infux of California gold, but with the reflux of the tide, it has ran pon the shoals, and now lies as helpless as a stranded whale. We must have time for discussion and the arrangement of details. Mr. Atchison ig expected to arrive in Washington next week, and a con! will no doubt take place as to his claims to ve restored to the Presidency of the Senate. I think Bright will be worsted, and that Atchisen will re- occupy hin old chair, But a feeling of smothered indig- nation exists among Senators for the course their late President bas seen fit to adopt relative to the affairs of Kansas. He may be called upon, previous to a re-elec- tion, for an explanation of his speech recommending a border foray into that Territory for {he purpose of frau- dulent and illegal voting. If the speech imputed to him is genuine, it would be highly discreditable to the Senate to place him al its head. Judge bee, eo has arrived in this city, and received the congratulations of his friends, some of which are 8u} i to be rather ircnical than sincere. Senator Johnson, of Arkansae, who has been re-elected for six ears, has also apppeared. Mr. Bell, of Tenn., Generals Houston and ead , Mr. Pearce, and Mr. Benjamin are yet amorg the absentees, ‘The re-argument of the Wheeling Bridge case was con- cluded in the Supreme Court on Friday. The an discuseed was one to est at os ie property of the ¢ com for a contempt of court, 2 not pbeving tha teceeg Ot tas court issued at the spring term of 1862, requiring the removal or elevation of the bridge. The second motion was for a sequestra- tion of the preperty and an attachment against the offi- cere of the compeny, for contempt in disobeying the in- junction granted by Judge Grier last June, to prevent the reconstruction of the bridge at an elovation less than that named in the decree of 1862. Thero was also a motion for the taxation of the costs awarded against fang Tone me Bh the decision of May, 1852, anda motion to ve the injunetion granted by Judge Grier, These motions were argued by Mr. Stanton, of Pitts- burg, for the State of Pennsylvania, and by Mr. Russell, of and of Maryland, ton closed the caseon Hon. Reverdy Johnson, company. Mr. Friday by an able address. The manner in which he bas conducted this long contested and important case, and his iments before the court, have added to his pre- viously high reputation asan advocate. I learn that Mr. Stanton will argue a case the District in Philadelphia next week, connected with the railroad difficulties in Erie, and the result of which may excite sides of that strong feelings among parties on both ai agi * Wasmuxaron, Dee. 19, 1854. The Reported Transfer sr India islands to There is some conversation over a report Read Ay oF British poscsloae in the Went Tadien us an equivalent on an \ for the extraordi ag] sacrifices for the tates this important cession is The United States it determined to annex West Indies, After the acquisition of Cuba and Porto Rico, Haytl would naturally falls to its expansion. After that the policy o! ¢ republic weuli | be directed to the acquisition of Jamaica and the other British islands, means to defend The home eermaent has still am, i er interests require the continuance of pe with the United States. Her manufactures would ruined were her supplies of American cotton to be cut off for a single year; and American grain, in years of European scarcity, may be the only resource of the British population to arrest the horrors of famine. It would be worth while to hazard these vast interests But as some of our ‘diplo. maticagents have had various questions to discuss, and , in this manner, have aroused some prejudices t them, it is best (thinks Mr. Clingman) that a commission should be appointed for that purpose, and that the wisest ‘men, enjoying the highest public’ and consideration, should be its members. Ge Hon, ¥ and the Hon, Howell Dallas, a eg pay iene out musaion, which, if .it tucceedeh woul de more to in- wo! crease our stan inf eld than the whole wees hone (Correspondence of the Pen 5 . Wasmuaroy, Dec, 26, 1854, ‘the KMsas Delegate— ‘The Pres of the ‘Ap- tneennentt, de. General Whitfeld, the delegate from the new Territory of Kansas, after the cu oath had been adminis- tered to ‘him, took his seat in the House to-day. Judging from the sensation he produced hia fel: low-members, it is not at all surprising that’ he was elected to Congress by a vote #0 ov ly large. He is about six feet five inches in his stockings, welland powerfully put together, has a fine, open manly coun tenance, and is in the prime of life—say about forty years old. ‘Tho General ing native of Tennessee, and in ‘a sound national democrat. He took the stump in Kan- sas in favor of the following three issues:—The compro- mise of 1850; the Baltimore platform; and the great prin- ciple em! in the Nebraska bill. “The result is that General Whitfield now occupies » seat in Congress, and his opponent, Mr. Flenniken, has returned to his home in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Senator Atchison has not arrived, although he is dafly looked for, It is understood that on tho election of Mr. the Presidency of the Senate, he addressed a letter to Mr. Atchison, in which he expressed an inten- tion to the office on Mr. A.’s return to Washing- ton. The latter gentleman, in his rep! e- ely di clined to avail hitoself of the eourtes? of Me Bert Mr... Allen, the popular Ne gent at this piace has resigned his office. . A. G. Greenleaf, for man; resident of this city, has been appointed to ie ‘vacanc’ y. Mr. R. W. Latham, Pension Agent at this point, has resigned his office ‘ ah re NeK 4 Congress is striving to improve the currency of this unfortunate District. "Any change would be ais ins provement, for notwithstanding the millions upon mil- fons of specie which are ex in Washington annu- ally, our circulating medium is principally composed of Georgetown and Alexandria shinplasters, and the issues of bogus banks. The Senate had an executive session to-day. Q ‘the Senate in executive sersion this afternoon, con. firmed the following appointments:— Mark W. Izard, Governor of Nebraska. Jacob Sorber, Postmaster at Wilkosbarre, Pa. Thomas M. Pogues, Postmaster at Camden, South Car- olina. Fairman F, Taber, Postmaster at Natchitoches. Jacob C. Martin, Receiver of Publis Moneys at Little » Ark. Our Albany Correspondence. AuBayy, Dec. 21, 1854. ‘The Capitol Improved— Library Convenience for Members —Governor Clark's Military Appointments. The members of the new Legislature will find the in- terior of the Capitol improved, and better suited and fit- ted for public business than ever. The small capacity of the Assembly Chamber haa been a great inconvenience for many sessions. The absence of rooms for commit- tees and private consultation has been an gnnoyance almost insupportable. The miserable Tocatiok and ar- rangements of the public library have been long de- nounced and complained of by both the public at largo andthe members of the Legislature during many past years. But all these, and various other inconveniences, have been obviated, and the Capitol now pre- sents an extremely inviting aspect. The Assem- bly Chamber presents the most extensive improve: ments. A large area has been added by the extension of some twenty feet to the rear—adding rooms and pas- sages for ingress and egress. The chamber js newly “furnished throughout with splendid carpetings, uphol stery, &c., new deaks, chairs, manufactured expressly for the purpose. The decorations of the chamber were committed 1o the excellent taste of the Rev. Dr. John N. Campbell, who has displayed his skill with entire satis- faction, with the exception of green window curtains, to which color the fastidious Know Nothings have the presumption to object; and they threaten presenta- tion of a resolution changing the green curtains for some otkers of a different color, ‘Sam’? thinks he can mus- tor a majority and carry such a resolution through the House. ‘Tho library building is also about complete, and the books, records, and other valuable property, most! arranged. The interior is admirably ranged,’ ana ‘ae splendid specimen of architecture and workmanship, un- equalled anywhere in the State, and but for the fatal error in not furnishing sufficient quantity of daylight, would be a perfect model of a public building. Being only supplied with light from one side, and partially from the roof, gan light, in broad daylight, is necessarily used in many of the alcoves on the westerly si The corridors, one from the ante-room of the Assembly Chamber, another leading from the Court of Appeals room, renders it very convenient for members of the Legislature to consult the library in their search for ai information required concerning any portion of the civilized world. My corrrespondence of yesterday stated that Governor Clark had selected only one of his military staf. I now find, ina Rochester paper of yesterday, a supposition that the following gentlemen will be commissioned, vis: Eenjamin F. Brace, of Madison county, Inspector Gene- ral; Joseph J. Chambers, of Albany, Kagineor-in. Chief; James L, Mitchell, of Albany, Quartermaster General; E. Kendrick, of Albany, Paymaster General; K.’H. Schermerhorn, of New York, J. B. Gale, of Troy, and Jobn Sill, of Albany, aius, and Sam.'G. Thomp- son, of New York, Military Secretary. General Bruce held the same position under Governor Hunt, but left no decided characteristic of his military talent, though he Mag suecenaful in receiving his five dellars por day, in. cluding Sundays, for the two years. Whilst the city of New York, comprising the first military division, and the only complete organization in the entire State,is allowed one Aid and Military Secretary, whose duties are only no- minal, the city of Albany, without even a single regi- ment At for drill or review, has the honor of being repre- sented by four members in Governor Clark’s military fa-° e Commander-in-Chief that is to be has not yet his Adjutant ; and itis understood ¢ names of such competent military men as General Swan, Fullerton, Col. Portley, Col. Cooke, and others, he healtates and leans towards & candidate ‘at Tivoli, Dutchess county. The militia of this State suffered for many years for the want of competency at headquarters, and it may be that igno- al Intelligence. Scrreme Covet oF Tar Usirxp State.—Dxo. 19.— No. 5. Grey P. Webb et al, vs. Leasee of Polly Weather. head. Error to the Circuit Court United States for the middle district of Tennessee. Mr. Justice Grier deliver- ed the opinion of this court, affirnaing the judgment of the said Circuit Court in this cause, with costs. No. 3. Arthurs, Nicholson & Co. ve, Jesse Hart. Error to the Circuit Court United States for the eastern district of Touisiana. Mr. Justice Nelson delivered the opinion of ‘this court, reversing the judgment of the eat Court, with costs, and remanding the cause for firther ceedings to be had therein, iu conformity to law and justice, and the opinion of this court. No. 2. Pierre rribeau et al vs. Joshua B. Brant. Appeal from the Circuit Court United States for the district of Missouri. Mr. Chief Justice Taney delivered the opinion of this court, dismissing the aj with costs. No. 10. Alex- ander M. Lawrence et al. appellants, vs. Charles Minturn. The — of this cause was concluded bbe Bae Hg? he appelisats. No. 28. The propeller Monticello, Jo rt &c., appellant, vs. Gilbert Mollison. The acqument of this cause was commenced by Mr. Gillet for the appel- lant. Adjourned. Jersey City News. ‘Tae Bexser or Sr. Pavi’s Cavncn.—The social tea meeting at St. Paul’s M. E. Church, in South Sixth atreet, on Wednesday evening, Ml attended, and passed off plearantly. Add: delivered by Rev. Messrs, Hare, J. B. Wakely and H. Matteson, pastors of Methodist churches in New York; Rev. Messrs. H. W. MeClure and P. D, Van Cleif, pastors of Reformed be goon ——_ _ 5 City, = oe Peeps of ptist jure! jersey ity. a wes excellent, A bountiful supper was. served. in f ment. The profits of the affair will be about $200, to ve applied to the benefit of the church. Roan Rospery.—Two boys called at Mr. Warron’s feed store, in Newark avenue, on Wednesday, and warted two bundles of straw. While the clerk was get- ting it the boys robbed the money drawer of $15, and escaped detection. EXxcvnston OF THe Morxmovsr Guanp.—This company, commanded by Capt. Joha Sylvester, went out day to Harlem ona target excursion. They numbered thirty-three muskets, and were sccompentod: number of invited guests = Thelr prises wore ‘god valuable, ARRIVAL OF PAUPERS FROM BELGION, ‘Twelve Supposed Convicts put in the Tombs —Their own Relation of the Matter. We published in the Hznaup of yerterday an account of the arrival of the packet ship Rochambeau, Captain Stackpole, from Antwerp, with about one hundred and sixty passengers, twelve of whom are supposed to be convicts, and the remainder paupers. The attention of our city authorities was directed tothe matter by our Consal at Antwerp, who, in a letter to'the Collestor of this port—Mr. Redfield—received some'time before the arrival of the vessel, expressed his belief that » number of her passengers are convicted criminals, and that they were sent here at the expense of the Belgian gov- ernment. On the arrival of the vessel: she was boarded by Sergeant Bell, of the Mayor's office, in com- pany with two or three others, who took twelve of the sup- posed criminals in charge and brought them te the city, leaving the remainder to the care of the Commissioners of Emigration. The twelve were committed te the Tombs to await an examination, which will beheld at ten o’clock this morning. As there appeared to be some uncertainty in regard to the true character of these men, we paid them.a visit yesterday, desiring to obtain an account of the atfair from themselves. They were all confined in colis liko the other prisoners; but so far as their appearance might be considered as expressive of their character, they did not certainly look like criminals. All were provided with passports, with a very few exceptions, and these had certificates of good moral character. Among those with whom we conversed was one named Delahaie, who had served five years in Africa in the French service, ani fifteen in the Belgian army. He had several certifi cates from his officers, and showed us, with the prido of an old soldier, the honorable discharges he had ob- tained after a period of twenty years in the ranks. Among his papers was a recommendation from the Gov- ernorof West Flanders, bearing hif seal and other marks of authority. He had become reduced in circumstances, and being unable to procure relief, he accepted the offer of the government to pay his passage to this coun- try rather than enter a poorhouse in his own. In the same cell with him was another, named Lambert Sou- venir, who had also been several years in the Belgian army. In the cell immediately opposite we found Alexander Joseph Augustus Vandervelde, who was formerly a sub- fieutenant in the same service, and subsequently be- came a travelling agent for a dry goods establishment. In this capacity, however, he did not appear to have sueceeded very well, and having failed in procuring other employment, he came to this country as a last re- sort, the government having offered to defray his ex- penses. At one time, while he was relating his story, he became quite excited and indignant at tho idea of being thrown into s prison immediately on his coming to what he, said he, had supposed was a free country. He would like, he told us, to have been able to show us his certifieater, but they were locked up in his trunk, and that had been taken frdm him. This he regarded outrage, and he asked, with much warmth, if poverty was considered acrime in America, and if » man for no other reason than that he was poor was to be consigned to a_| prison. Through some mistake bis name had not been entered upon the keeper’s book. As we wero leaving him, he expressed his willingness to work at any occu- pation: by which he could make a subsistence. He seemed to be an educated man, and appeared to feel tne degraded position in which he had been placed most keenly. The story of-all these men was the same. The mayors of the different cities from which they came had asked them, on their petitioning for work, if they would not prefer to go to America if they were provided with the means; and they expressed their williagness, under the impression that, once here, they would have no di@iculty in procuring employment. They alao accepted it as the only way in which they could escape the poorhouse, in which some of them acknowledgod having lived a short time previous to their departure. The expense of sup- porting a pauper in the depots de menilicite, as they are called, is from twenty-five to thirty-two centimes per éay, which is equal to about six conts. Whenever it can do it successfully, the Belgian govermment, or rather the communes, never omit an opportunity to save their own treasury by throwing their paupers on us for apport. But they are not the only parties that have pursued this system—it has been carried on by other European governments as well as the Belgian. It remains to be secon, however, whether the pas- sengers by the Rochambean are really paupers; and | we hope the matter will be subjected to a most | rigid investigation this morning. Several years ago, it may be remembered, Last and West Flanders were in a most impoverished condition—that isthe working classes —in consequence of the introduction of machinery as a substitute for manual labor. The typhus fevor raged with fearful violence, too, among the most destitate, and the government, as the only means of relief, presented them with the opportnuity of emigrating to the United States. A few took advantage of it, but the great majority preferred to take their chanees in the land of their birth to leaving it for one in which they would meet none but strangers, the people of which spoke language en- tirely different from their own. All who are now in the city prison told us—and al- though in separate cells, their statements agreed in eve- ry particnlar—that when they went on board the Ro- chambeau, at Antwerp, they wero in charge of gens @armes,or policemen, and from this fact it is probable the suspicions of our Consul originated. When the vessel was boarded by Sergeant Bell he told them that they would have to accompany him to the office of the Belgian consul, who would provide them with money and render them whatever other assistance they might require. ‘This is their statement of the affair, and they expressed their willingness to take their oaths that they had never before been in a prison for any crime or offence. The report published in one of the morning papers, that they attempted to resist the officers in the discharge of their duty, is without the slightest foundation, as Mr. Bell himself informed us. Some of them said that they had, while in Antwerp waiting for the vessel to sail, been lodged in one of the prisons, but they were com- pelled to consent to this, as it was the only shelter open to them. On leaving the Tombs we wemt to the Mayor's office, where we found Sergeant Bell, who told us that they had, while under his charge, conducted'themselves ina most peaceable manner, and evinced their willingness tog) with him wherever he desired to take them. Whil> here we saw another Belgian, named Braeckmans, wh had arrived from Antwerp in the Sarah G. Hyde, an who had been in the city two days looking for employ ment. He had been at the office of tho Belgian Consul, and that official, unable to do anything for him, sent bim to the Commissioners of Emigration, by whom he was again sent, in company with one of their clerks, named Wermerskirch, to th Mayor’s office. Mr.W. had introduced him to the notice of the officials here as a conyict, and told us that Braeck- mans bad acknowledged this himself. When we asked him he said he had never told the clerk anything of the kind, and when brought before him he stoutly denied having made apy such avowal. The clerk replied that he knew he wasa criminal, and that he could tell him as such by his appearance. ‘‘I could tell,”’ said he, ‘‘every con- vict by his looks, and know that this man must have ‘been at Alost’’—one of the Belgian prisons. This terminated our inquirios here, and we know not what became of Braeckmans after we left. Notwith- standing Mr. Wermerskirch’s wonderful perception, we could not see anything in the open and ingengous features of the poor fellow which would lead ua to suppore that he was a eriminal. There were many im the office at the time who looked more like one than he. We next visited the Collector of the Port, Mr. Redfield, who know nothing further than what wes contained in the letter, and that was based entirely upon suspicion. The Belgian Consul was ‘no better informéd, the first inkling which he had of the matter having been obtained from the morning pa- pers. He had been making inquiries of the Mayor, as we bad; but upon this point that worthy official declared himeelf to be a Know Nothing. The examination this morning may lead to more satisfactory results, however. Domestic Miscellany. Governor Price, of Missouri, has commuted the sen- tence of Charles a the Ste. Genevieve wife mur- derer, to thirty years imprisonment in the penitentiary. Evans,late a member of the bar, and once a mem- the Kentucky Legislature, has Been sentenced to one year in the penitentiary for larceny. PRICE TWO CENTS. ° MORE WRE cKs. Information reached the city yesterday morning that; the packet ship St. Patrick was ashore at Barnegat. ‘The St. Patrick is commanded by Capt. Whitman, aad, sailed from Liverpool Nov. 15 for this city, with upwards. of 400 passengers, and consigned to David Ogden. The acsident occurred at 6 o’clock on Tuesday evening, — when the vossel strack the shore two miles south ef” Barnegat. It was very foggy at the time, rendering it fu- possible; to distinguish at any distance, and the wind’ blowing strong north by east. : The passengers were all saved, and arrived up to the city yesterday morning in several fishing schooness. They number 434, sixty of them came up in the Neé Buntline, seventy in the Statesman, sixty-six in the George Moore, fifty-one in the King of the Forest, fiftg-. two in the Empire State, and sixty-nine in the Albert Haley, all Ashing eehooners, which fortunately were ie the vicinity at the time. The St. Patrick was of 806 tons, built at Newburyport, Me., in 1844, and principally, if not entirely owned by Mr. David Ogden, and was insured for $41,000 in this city, equally divided between several offices in Wall street. She had 900 tons of coal, besides salt, irom, &e., valued at $60,000, covered by insurance. Her freight money was not insured. The ship was valued at $44,080. The captains of the schooners report that when they left her, on Wednesday evening, there was every probe- bility of her being a total loss. She was thumping heavily, and had seven feet of water in her hold. & quantity of iron and other cargo had been thrown over just before the Geo. Moore left her. ‘The news was first brought to the city early in the morning by the pilot boat Thomas H. Smith, who saw hee early on Wednesday morning, when she appeared high and dry, with all her spars standing. The pilot boat re- * porta the weather so bad on Tuesday evening and night that it was impossible to reef. The boat was also covered. with ice a foot thick. Tho steam tug Titan, with a lighter in tow, with steams pumps, &¢., were immediately despatched to hor relie® by the underwriters. If the weather kept moderate tt te presumed she will be afloat again. A ship, hailing from Brunawick, Me., was also repect- ed to be ashore yesterday at Moriches, on Long Island, the scene of the unfortunate disaster to the. Franklin, The report is stated to ‘havg come. conductor of the Long Island Railroad, whq . mensage handed to him on the road, directed { «hs of W. 8. Swift & Co., of this city. From this ; ferred that the vessel was the Masonic, from with passengers, daily expected at this port, 0 rived during the afternoon, all safe. ‘The arrival of the 3 o’clock Long Island ti! pected to bring further information regarding but did not. We were informed in the even 4 train from Yaphank, which is immediately ; riches, had arrived without confirming the the time of closing the several marine insu last evening, nothing had reached them su. though they have agents all along the coast, whose be- siness it is to immediately transmit the fact of any éls- aster immediately upon its occurrence. It may probablig: ‘be an error. * Ellwood Walter, Esq., the Secretary of the Board ef ” Underwriters, received a despatch yesterday, dated Ner= folk, Deo. 21, stating that the schooner Adrian, of Say vannah, from Leghorn for New York, was on sherem there, leaking badly. The pilot boat Moses H. Grinnell was also reporte®™ ashore yesterday. We were subsequently informed thet she got ashore on the point of the Hook, but fortunatelg: tucceeded in floating again, supposed without damage. ‘The bark Georgia, arrived yesterday from Dublin, ha® 2 boisterous passage, having experienced heavy westerig- gales during the whole time. She bad her deck house washed awsy, stove her life boat, and lost jib-booms, sails, &c. Sho was thirty-nine days west of Sette Island. The schooner Kingfisher, arrived from Gonaives, expe rienced heavy weather, and lost deck load, split sails, kes, On 16th inst., im lat. 86 10, lon. 73 55, she spoke a brig? from Savannah for Baltimore, under jury masts, having“ been dismasted two days before. "i The schooner Planter, (of Dennis Captain Baker, i. also lost, The ship Lady Franklin, arrived yesterdag> b ‘ | from Liverpool, on the 9th instant, im lat. 41 20, lon. @@ + 30, saw a vessel with # signal of distress flying, and om running down to her discovered it to be the Planter im. “ a sinking condition, with the erew exhausted from thele ~~ exertions in bailing. All hands, six in number, well, .) immediately taken on board the ship, but it blowing very strong at the time they were able to save nothing more than they stood in. The distressed mariners were treated with every kindness by Captain Thompson, af the Lady Franklin, for which they desite publicly to re- turn their warmest thanks. Unfortunately, the Lady Franklin, while in tow in thaw East river, went ashore om Diamond Reef. She was ex-/ pected to be got off next high water. ‘The bark Venus, arrived yesterday from Curacoa, re- ports on Dec. 8, in about lat, 22, Ton, 69, making out @, wreck to the wostward, and on bearing down to withim fifty feet of her, found her to be @ vessel of about 300 tons, apparently British, but could not see her name. She was water-logged, and the sea was making a cleat breach over her. Her main and mizen masts were, standing, aad the main yard aloft; her anchors to the, ~ bow and chains bent. The carved work onthe sterm. represented a crowned Neptune inthe contre. She had& probably been boarded previously, as the mizen masts +» ‘was stripped. The Venus also passed on the 17th, in lat. 37 20, lon, 73 30, aquantity of cotton bales and some pine logs. The Vi reports the death of Daniel Benjamin, af. Curacoa, on the 27th of November, of fever. Twe others—Thos. McCarthy and John Nichols—were left at the hospital there, sick with the fever. ‘The bark Gem of the Sea, arrived yesterday fro.’ Malaga, had suffered by the bad weather, having lost her- foretopgaliant mast, and had most of her sails blowm. away, besides receiving other damage. She bad beem. twenty-seven days to the westward of Bermuda, with» heavy gales. ‘The Gem of the Sea spoke, on the 18th inst., the Bri | tish vessel Helen Maud, of Halifax, bound to this citys, from Jamaica, with loss of most of her sails. OUR MARINE CORRESPONDENCE. Rivermead, Long Island, Deo. 20, 1856 @ ‘TO TMK EDITOR OF THK NKW YORK HERALD, ’ A large quantity of lumber came ashore opposite this; place, on the Sound shore, (about seven miles,) a few days ago, supposed to have been swept from the decker, of a vensol, or to have come from Connecticut. The names Tinker, Dusen and Copeland are marked on somen. of the sticks, OLD SUFFOLK. TELEGRAPHIC. : WRECK OF THR SHIP SUNNY SOUTH, AND THR =‘ SCHOONER VALLONIA, Corvasi, 8. C., Dec. 21, 1854. Advices from Nassau to the 0th inst. report the sche. ? Vallonis, of Halifax, (N.8.,) as having gone ashore om Whale Cay, and afterwards getting off; also of the ship Sunny South, from New Orleans for New York, with = cargo of two thousand bales of cotton, being wrecked off Bahama Bank, on the 26th ult. Twelve hundre® bales of the cotton had been saved in » dry state, but the vessel had gone to pieces, There was no salt at Turk’s Island, and the demand for it at Inagua exceeded the supply—the price waar thirty cents; and tending upwards. Flour was aftr shillings per barrel. . WRECK OF THE SCHOONER 184581. ; Care Istaxp, N: J., Deg. 21, 1866, The schooner Isabel went ashore this morning, oppo~ site Congress Hall; and fs ® total loss. Tho crew clung to the rigging until daylight, when they wore resoucd by, some of our citizens fn a whaleboat, LOs8 OF THE BARK LORETTO PIsH. , Bavrmorm, Deo. 21, 1854, ‘The bark Loretto Fish, Chase, bound to New Orleans * from Turks Islands, with a cargo of salt, wae totally wrecked on Bahame reef. The crow were all saved. aden meer Sareea ances tates Nav Ly on aged 24 oats, ’ j ae i