The New York Herald Newspaper, January 1, 1861, Page 1

OLE NO. 8881. «PORTANT FROM WASHINGTON. , “THE MARCH OF THE REVOLUTION Secession Speech of Mr. Ben- jamin in the Senate. Irrepressible Outburst of Approbation by the Spectators. Resignation of Officers of the Army and Navy. Anticipated Hostilities from South Carolina. THE VIEWS OF GENERAL SCOTT. GR. BOLT APPOINTED SECRETARY OF WAR, &., &e. de. OUR WASHINGTON DESPATCHES. ‘Wasnnoton, Dec. 31, 1860, ‘There has been no additional news received to-day by the government from Charleston. The Commissioners are constantly in the receipt of despatcbes, detailing te ‘hem the important movements aud operations going on ‘ their Convention. ‘the Governor telegraphed the Commissicners to-day to know whether the President intended to restore Major Anderson to his command at Fort Moultrie. It appears that the authorities of Charleston had heard that the President bad determined to doso, The Commissioners, it is un- derstood, replied at once that the administration had not ‘and would not restore Major Anderson, and that they ex- pected to Jeave immediately for Charlesion. It is expect- ed that as soon as they return hostilities will commence. ‘The Cabinet have been in session nearly all day, and ‘it is understood that the question now in dispute is in re- gard to reinforcing Major Anderson. The Cabinet are understood to be equally divided, the President doubting the propriety of such action, General Scott’s views are well known upon that sub- ject. He is not only for reinforcing Fort Sumter, but also al) the forts in the South. It is understood he hag recommended this course to the President. This wil ‘Bot, however, be done. ‘The Southern men openly declared to-day that all hope Of adjustment or reconciliation is passed. The feeling ‘and excitement is running very high, and it is predicted ‘that an explosion will occur in either House of Congress im Jess than ten days. The general feeling in both houses to-day is indicative of trouble. Tt is stated, on reliable authority, that several thou- fand men are already enrolled, and large accessions are daily made, doth in Maryland and Virginia, to take pos- session of this capital. They declare that Mr. Lincoln ever sbal) be inacgurated in this city. Many republi- cane bave 0¢en aneured of this, If the present state of things go on, and there is no settlement, rely upon it the Capitol never will be permitted to paes into the hinds of the republicans, ‘The President bad not completed his message up to ad- journment of Congress. It will not, therefore, be sent to them until Wednesday. ‘She President has not in- dicated to a soul outside of his Cabinet what position he wiltake, cr the policy he intends to pursue, One thing, however, is certain, the demand which has deen made to restore the troops to the status quo will not be complied with. F Postmaster General Holt hae beem transferred to thr War Department, and will perform the duties of tha office for the present. ’ ‘The following army officers have resigued:—Prevt Major Wm. 1. Walker and brevet Major H. C. Wayne, of Georgia; Col. A. C. Myers, Capt. John Dunivant and bre- vet Sccord Lient. W. H. Gibbs, of South Carolina. ‘The following waval officers from South Carolina have revigned:—Liente. A. F. Warley, John R. Hamilton, Robert Sekten and W. G. Dozier; Assistant Surgeon Thos. J. Chariton; Midshipmen, Frauels W. Thomas, R. H. Bacot, Jobn 7. ker, John imball and Wm. H. Wiikinson. Wasutvarox, Dec. 21, 1860. ‘The House Committee of Thirty-three to-day had under consideration Mr. Milson’s proposition for a compromise Vine, south of which slavery sball be permitted, an® north of which it shall be prohibited, No vote upon it was arrived at. ‘The electoral vote of Minois was delivered to the Vice President to-day by the messenger, Hon. Leonard Swett, one of the State electors. Mr, Breckinridge remarked that it wag the lat, al) the rest having been previously received. Senator Paker, of Oregon, has arrived here from Tili- nos, and will reply to Senator Benjamin on Wednesday. Senator Cameron is in Springfield, by invitation of the Preadent elect. It is reported that he will go into the Treasury Department, and that Mr. Wilmot will sucseed him in the Senate. All parties are deepondent to-night. But once chance Of a peageadje adjustment remains, that is to amend the constitution by providing for the withdrawal of the dis- sat infied States apon indemnification for their portion of fhe pRblic property and public debt, and providing for continuance of the present commercial relations between the States. The South will agree to this if the North will stipulate to return or pay for fugitive slaves. This would simply amount to political separation and commercial ‘union, and would relieve the Northern conscience of the responsibility of slavery, whilethe faith of the govern- ment would be protected. Col. A. M. Barbour, Superintendent of the Harper's Ferry Arsena), arrived here to-night,on business con nected with bis station. Hon. Peleg W. Chandler, City Solicitor of Borton, and a committee consissing of Mesars. Preble, Batchelder, Web- ster and Mathey, are here on offteial business. They join additional members in New York in a day or two. New Year's eve is being celebrated at the seat of gov ernment by a few free dghts between Union and dieunion champions. A knock down has just occurred at one of the hotels, with fair promise that it would be renewed e # quiet, with the usual abundance of canarde feat og around to gull the credulous Wasmrxotow, Dec, 51, 1860. The seneation today bas been the epecch of Senator Benjamin in the Senate, It ja the talk everywhere, and even republicans acknowledge its logic, force and thrill ing eloquence. For the first time in a number of years the pulleries were cleared by order of the Senate in con sequence of anenthusinstic outburst of applause at ite conclusion Romors that a quasi dictatorship, of military affinities, was to be established by the appoiatwment of Lieutenant General Scott to the vacant post of Secretary of War, ‘created sorne uneasiness in the public mind, which, how- ever, was finally dispelled by the selection of Postmaster General Holt to fll the place. The appointment creates po eurprice, and but very little remark. ‘There was general disappointment in both branches of Congress, and among citizens and strangers generally, in consequence of the non-reception of the President's spe- cial mereage, final touches to which had not been given at the hour of adjournment. It will doubtless be presented cn Wednesday, Frroncous reports bave been transmitted to the public through the newspaper prese, respecting the position of the South Carolina Commissioners toward the Executive. So far from the Commissioners declining to receive the restcration of the status quo a8 satisfaction for the course Major Anderson bad pursued, in causing a violation of the pledges of the government, I am authorized to state that ‘00 exch proposition was mate to the Commissioners by the Preeident. What their course would have been had ench an offer been made is entirely a different matter. The Gommiseionere stil remain bere. They consider the appointment of Mr. Rolt aa Secretary of War a bad omen for a fasiefactory ancl ampecable conclusion of the labors of their mission, (narmuch a@ they regard the sentiments of the new Seerotary of War ar hostile to the interests of outh Carolion. bet «ong op favor of coercive meagurer. The Comm % open have rege ved 00 important intelli gence from home to-day. They await the transmission of the rpecial message of the President and the action of Congress thereon, before they determine their final course of action. They are all in good spirits to, night, and apparently bent upon enjoying at least ong “happy New Year”? in the federal capital prior to the ep- tire dismemberment of the Union. Idle and ridiculous reports relative to an alleged /m- portant and beistercus Cabinet meeting on Sunday fast, also about the return of Secretary Floyd to the Cabinet, and about the issue of orders to Major Anderson t¢ with- draw bis forces frou the Charleston forts to appeite the wrath of the South Cavclinians, were published by some of your cotemporaries to-day. It is almost yeediess to say there is not a word of truth in cither stayment. ‘The intelligent delegate from New Mexico, Mr. Otero, is somewhat amused at the interest some of the leading Politicians take in the affairs of the Territory he repre- sents, They are attempting to coerce it jato the Union 48a State without asking the coneent of its people, who are well enough satisfied with the mode in which they are now governed; and hereupon has arisen a query—if Congress can force a State into the Union, cannot it force one out? And if it can force one out, why make euch & row about a State leaving peaceably? The number of troops said by your Boston correspondent to be enrolled in Massachusetts for active service against the South, is identically the eame as that referred to in the threatening letters to citigsns of Charlestown, Vir- ginia, a8 mentioned in yesterday's despatch—seven thou- and. If these ancnymous letters came from Maseachn- setts, as they probably did, might there not be some truth hidden beneath the mysterious and mischievous mmunications. Accounts from New York, received rough demo- @atic channels, report that the anti-secession feeling ig gaining immense strength there. Accounts from the same Hate, through republicau channels, go further, and after sxborting their friends to stand firm as graninite, say if physical force is wanted to sustain the Union enough can be ‘ent from the Empire State to plant the District of Oolum- lia with fighting men as thick as bulrushes. That the Union sentiment at the North is powerful, daily asaurances are received here from democrats who go with the South all agths except dissolution. Wasnineton, Dec. 31, 1860. The report which prevailed throughout the city this aternoon that Lieut. Gen. Scott had been appointed Sec- ritary of War ad inderim, produced a thrilling effect, and oxtasioned much indignation among the secessionists, who are fully aware that Gen. Scott is in favor of exten- sife military preparations. The truth is, Postmaster Géeral Holt is in temporary charge of the department, ar} to night was attending to the duties there, in com- poly with the chief clerk. Gen Scott has not been either atthe department President’s house to-day. Ioth Secretary Thom} and Secretary Thomas were atthe Cabinet meeting to-day, though rumor had de- clited otherwise. fany reports prevai. with no truth for their founda- tim, and which serve only to add to the already intense exfitement. Jr. Bingham’s bill further to provide for the collection ‘of juty on imports, introduced in the House to-day and regrred to the Committee on Judiciary, looks to the in. erage of the President's power to enforce the revenue sian Hunter intends introducing a resolution, hav ing fm view an adjustment of the property and other quiftions with apy seceding State. dt. Trescott, the Secretary to the South Carolina Com- wuisioners, will leave Washington to-morrow for Charles- tox The Commissioners will remain to await executive an legislative action. THIRTY-SIXTH CONGRESS. BEOOND SESSION. Senate. Wasntncton, Dec. 31, 1860, Tr} galleries were crowded. There was a large crowd abou! the doors. Ladies also were in the lobbies amd on the fitor. Mr.Currenpgy, (opp.) of Ky., offered a resolution that a porton of the gailery be set aside for foreign ministers and thyir families and suites, Mr. Mavis, (opp.) of Miss., objected. He thought there was noteason for it. Mr. Nason spoke in favor of the resolution. Me. Swanp, (rep.) of N. Y., also spoke in favor of its pastage. Agreed to. KPORT OF THE SELECT CRISIS COMMITTEE. Mr. Powtexs, (opp.) of Ky., reported from the Special Committe) of Thirteen that the committee had not been able to agwe upon any general péan of adjustment, He arked thathe journal of the committee be printed. Mr. Dovsras, (opp.) of Tl, said that he wished to speak on jhe subject, but would postpone his remarks until Wednteday. Mr. Cxrmtxpes asked that the Senate would set apart seme day for the consideration of the joint resolution ottered by him. = ‘The resolution was then made the special order for Wednesday. ‘TAP DISPOSITION OF THE NATIONAL ARMS. Mr. Wnsow, (rep.) of Maee., offered a resolution of in- quiry, that the Secretary of War be requested to inform @ Senate what bn we od had been made of the arms deat the national armories; if any had been sokl, and if £0 at what price amd to whom; what number there were in the arsenals and how they were protected. Ob- Jected to and aid over. ‘THE ORGANEATION OF ARIZONA. The Dill to organize the Territorial government of Ari- zona was taken up. Mr. Tremavrt, (rep.) of Til., spoke in favor of the amendment to the amendment, to allow the Mexican law abolishing slavery to continue in force. Mr. Geew, (opp.) of Mo., eaid that hir, Brown’s amend- ment did not change any law, but only proposed to con- Linue an existing law. He-was in favor of leaving the peo- pie free to choose their own laws. ‘THE ADNIRSION OF KANEAS. ‘The epectal order, the Bill providing for the admission of Kansae, was here takea vp, and postponed until Mon- day next. SPHRCH OF XR. PPRNIAMIN ON THR CRIT. Mr. Bexsasax, (opp.) #f La., rose to address the Senate. Re said he had suj that, ere this, he would have had official information of the ition of affairs in South Carohna, but in the absence of it he should assume that he had such information, The South, he said, had re- peated)y warned the North that they ' were driving them to a point that would résult in a separation, and for this they had only been sneered at and maligned. He (Mr. Ben- jamin) wished to epeax in no epirit of reerimination, but to perform his duty. He would call attention to the speech he made four-years ago, predicting this result. Mr. Bergamin here quoted from the 6 he made in 1856, and in which he said the time would come when the Somh would throw the sword into the scale with all the rights of the South, because he did not believe there could be peaceable revession. He said that the words he had then uttered bed proved to be true to-day. Ile would to God that the fears ef civil war then expressed would prove only fears, but from what he had heard, it almost seemed as if the otber side of the chamber desired to bring about a civil war. South Carolina had declared herself separated fram the Union, while other States stand ready to siport Ly , or else to put her down. t is the )) issue, and — there ig no use to disguise \t. We are not’ permitted to gnore the fact that ihe determination to secede is not confined to South Cayclina alone, for next week Missis- sipp!, Alabama and Florida will separate from the Union; a week after Georgia wil) follow them: a little later Louis- sana will secede, and soon after her Arkansas. Now, then, shall we recognise Sonth Carolina as a free and independ- ent State, or shall we coerce by force? He@argued that the peopie of South Carolina had a right to declare them- selves free: it was an inherent, inalienable right. South Carolina bad, by the voice of her people, met in conven- tion, in 1860, and renealed the ordinanee made by ber peo- ple when they met in convention in 1788. Mr. Benjarnin ere quoted from & speogh of Daniel Webster's, in the Rhode Ieland case, to that a convention of the poeple duly assembled had proper authority. He (Mr. ‘ebster) had said that a compact was not binding on one party unless the othar parties to it lived up to it,and that «compact broken by one could be broken by all. Mr. Henjamin here quoted from Mr. Madison to sustain Lis postion. Iie (Mr. Benjamin) said mt no one could find ony article fm the constitution requiring foree to bo used (6 coerce a State. He referred to the old Confede- ration, and said that nine States seceded from it for the express reagen thit the compact between them was not kept, and finallf all the States seceded bnt Rhode Island and orth = Carolina, leaving them as foreign Stater. He claimed this as a precedent iw the formation — of present constitution show the riglit of a State to secede, Who was to be udge if & Chmpact was broken? If a compact was in @ pec¥niary matter, the constitution provided a way to settle’ the matter, bat ff it wat broken politi- cally, the copst#qtion provided no way. He read from the debates of tue convention which formed the consti tution to show that the members of that convention re- fused to make the Senate the judge of, or give the Pre- sident the powcr to veto the action of a state; that they reused te give Congress the power to negative State berielation, and that they ially refused to give any power to coerce atates, Yet when the State con. ventions cam) (o ratify the constitution, complaints were made thet tho States were not sufficiently secure, It must be adthjwed that certain political rights are gun- ranteed (he States, but when these rights are denied where i# the remeay? that Sonth Carolina should pend two #ebe tors here, the majority should refuse to receive but Othe, what yer can compe) that majority to repair the win suppose that aon Carolina should ten withdragy from the Union, who covld say it was a yiolation of the constitution? Suppose, again, that a chy at agg egg red which does not by ty clear to or’ u Dut does ‘clear $0 Sout suppose she is denied access to the Territories? Ie the without any age ge the constitution? If there is none, then the wrong and the mode of redress. from an address delivered by John oes Se in New York, im 1838, in which be said nations themeelves must be the sole judge whether compacts are broken, and also saying ‘that when all frat feeling was gone between the States, —_ it — tos ‘ar Lamy be turn to their original state. . Benjamin) sai tat a sectional President had been elected, who could, with the aid of a sectional Senate, grant all the benefits to and appoint from one section all the officers in the gift of the government, and thus ruin the South, Suppose that South Carolina is in error in believing that wrong bas been done her, still that does not alter the issue whether we shall permit her to withdraw or force her back. In to the Senator from Winconsin (Mr. Doolittie), he Re im) claimed that a citizen was bound to obey his State government. The republi- can Senators say that they will not coerce a State, but enforce the laws against individuals, But how can they ieh ant individual ina State for treason? Where are y to find the ige and to do so, when all the citizens in the State think t he has done right? He fair lockade he; the other. He claimed that neither Congress vor the President had power W go into a State with a military force without the inter- vention of the civil power. Some civil process must pre- cede the military force. He argued that they could not collect the revenue by force. Such threats were only a pretext to cover up the real question, which is no than thie—Shall we acknowledge the of & seceding State or reduce her to subjection war? Mr. Benjamin here read from ‘‘Vattel’”’ to show it the fy of compacts was of no avail, and re- of | Rhadamisc\ us, who pro- mised not to use stecl against a captive, yet smothered him. And you, Senators of the republican party, you assert, and your le assert, that, under a just and fair interpretation of the federal constitution, it is right to deny that our slaves, which, directly or indi- rectly inyolve'a value of $4,000,000,000, are property at all, entitled to protection in the Territories under and by the government. You assert that by a fair interpreta- tion of that instrument, it is to encourage by all possible means the robbery of this property, and to legislate so as to render its recovery as dangerous and difficult as pos- sible. You gay that it is right and proper, under the con- stitution, to prevent our mere transit across asister State to embark with our property on a lawful voyage, without being openly despoiled of it: You assert that it is right and proper to hold us up to the banof mankind, in speecnes and writings, as thieves, robbers, villains and criminals of the blackest dye, because we continue to own property which we owned at the time we all signed the compact. You say it is right that we should be dis- posed to epend our treasure in the purchase and our blood in the conquest of a foreign territory, and yet have no right to enter it for settiement, without leaving behind our most valuable property, under ty of its confis- cation. Your fathers interpreted jtrment to mean safety and peace to all, and you say it is eminently in accordance with the surety tour welfare and 8 to be preserved that our sister States a combine to prevent our growth and development, and be She us be a ben} of — been na = exprees and avowed purpose of accumulating, in dense masses and within restricted limits, a lation which you believe to be dangerous, and’ thereby forc- ing us to sacrifice a property nearly sufficient in value to pay the public debt of every nation in Europe. This con- struction of the instument which was to preserve 01 security and promote our welfare, and which we only signed on your assurance that such was its object, you ‘tell us bow is a fair construction. You don’t to enter our States, you my, to kill and destroy our institu- tions by force. Oh, no. You imitate the faith of Rhadam- iseus, and you simply to inclose us in an em- brace that will suffoeate us. You don’t propose to fell the tree, you ae ae to. You merely propose to girdle it, and let it die, an then, when we tell you we don’t understand this way, and your acting upon it in this spirit, releases us from the obligations which accompany it,’and under no circumstances can we con- sent to live together under that interpretation, and we say we will go, if you will let us go, in peace, we are answered by your leading spokeman, “Oh, no, we cannot do that. We have no objection to {t, person- ally, but we are bound by our oaths, if you’ attempt it, your people will be hanged for treason. We have examined this instrument thoroughly, and we cannot find any warrant in it for releasing ourselves from the obligation of giving you all these beneiits, and our oaths force us to tax you for it. We gin dispense with anything else, but we it, upon our souls, that our consciences will be sorely worried if we do not take your money.” (Laughter ‘That is the proposition of the Senator from Oboe (Mr. Wade) in plain » “We can dispense with anything everything else, but how to get rid of taki ir money we cannot sec.’’ Gouuer,) Now, , this picture is not you biychew dee geimey Stee A one of you, or that it will change the views or the conduct of any of you; all hope of that is gone. Gur committee has re- ported this. aie Sw feasible scheme of adjustment can be devised. day of adjustment is passed. If you xm to make one now, you are too iate. ators, within a very few weeks we part, to meet again ag Senators in one common council chamber of the nation, no more forever. We desire, we beseech you, to let this parting be in peace. I conjure you to indulge in no vain delusion, that duty, or cons€lence, or interest, or honor, impose ‘upon you the necessity of invading our States, and shedding the bleod of our people. You have no possible justification for it. I trust it is from no craven spirit, or any sacrifice of the dignity or honor of my own State, that I make this last appeal, hut from far higher and holier motives. If, however, it sball prove vain—if you are resolute to pervert the go- vernment, framed by the fathers for the protection of our rights, into an instrument for subjugating and enslaving us, then, appealing to the Supreme Judge ‘of the universe, for the rectitude of our intentions we must meet the issue you force upon us 28 best becomos trea. nen defending all that is dear to man. What may be The faie of this horrible contest none can foretell; but this much } wil) say, the fortunes of war may be adverse to your arms: you may carry desolation into our peaceful Jand, and with torch and firebrand may set our cities in flames; you may even emulate the atrocities of those who, in the days of the revolution, hounded on the blood- thirsty savage; you may give the protection of your ad- vancing armies to che furious fanatics who desire nothing more than to add the horrors of servile insurrection wo civil war; you may do allthis and more, but you never can subjugate the free sons of the soil into v: paying trbute to your power; you can never degrade them toe servile and inferior race; never, never. As Mr. Benjamin concluded his speech he was greeted with uproarious applause. All over the galleries there were él 8 and cl , and waving of handkerchiefs and hurrahs, and the greatest confusion and excitement pre- vailed all over the house, Mr, Mason, (opp.) of Va., a8 soon as his voice could be heard above the uproar, moved that the galle- rigs be instantly cleared. ‘This motion was seconded by a number of voices, hisees and whistlings in the gallery. ‘The Present, (Mr. Bright in chair,) ordered the —- at-Arms to clear the gallery. ‘The hisses now again broke out. Mr. Yeux, (opp.) of Florida, moved to adjourn. Mr. Mason hoped that the Senate would not adjourn until the dignity of the Senate was asserted. The ayes and nocs were ediled on the motion to clear the gallery. ‘The motion was carried, and the Sergeant-at-Arms cleared the gallery. ‘The motion to adjourn was lost by yeas, 13: ny ttied Mr. Mason said that he did not intend that the ladies’ gallery should be cleared. Mr. Baker (opp.), of Oregon, here got the floor, but yielded to a metion to adjourn. Adjourned till Wednesday. House of Representatives. ‘Wastirsatow, Deo, 31, 1860, TIE SECRETARY OF WAR ANP THE INDIAN BONDS RORAERY. The Srraxen laid before the House a communication from the late Secretary of War, explaining the reagon why, and justifying his course, in giving cortain aecapt- ances to Russell, Majors & Co., and inviting investiga. tion into all his official acte. Mr. Bocock, (opp.) of Va., moved the communication be referred to the Select Committee to investigate into the abstraction of the Indian Trust bonds. Mr. Contis, (rep.) of own, opposed this course. Mr. Bocock said Mr. Curtis could appear as witness be- fore the committee, and briefly contended that the reso. lution should take that direction, as the Secretary of War says he bas been complicated to some extent as a party to the question before the committee. Mr. Cunnis denied that he had offered himself as a wit- nees, and remarked that the Secretary had made the con- tract with Russell, Majors & €o. without authority of law, and to the prejudice of other parties. Mr. Grow, (rep) of Pa., raised the point that the Sec- retary of War bad no authority by law to communicate to the House at will. Mr. Bocock said he question came too late. When a public officer believes himself falsely implicated in an improper transaction, he has aright to come hero and ask for an investigation. ‘The Sreixem said it did not appear to him that while it i@ made the duty of the President to transmit commu: nications, the heads of di vents could not do so, Mr. Ctesexs, (opp.) of eforred to the act of 1808, to show that it is en) Provided that the Secretary of War shall have t to make communications in regard to contracts. it. Grow did not consider that the law was applicable to this case. The communication was referred to the Sblect Com- mittee on the abstraction of the bonds. THE DIAPOSITION OF THE NATIONAL ARMS. Mr. McPamnsoy, (rep.) of V'a., asked leave, but objec- tion was made, to offer a resolution calling on the Secre- tary of War to inform the House what transfers of can- non or munitions of war have been rerooved from the arsenals sinoe Apri), 1960; what ales of arms had been made subseqnent to that time; to whom, and whether by private or public sale, ‘TH OWJKCTS OF THR FEDERAL UNION. Mr. McKean, (rep.) of N. ¥., asked leave to offor the following —That the several States did not “ordain and establish’! this ment; that it was made by the people of the United States in order to form a more perfect Union, ¢stabiiah justice, insure do- mertio tranquility, provide fa the common de fence, promote the general welfare, and secure the dlersings of terity, bat for such purpose the people withdrew Uberty to themselves and their pe 3 U PRICE TWO CENTS. their several State governments certain powers and i one general government, whose constitu- treaties are the supreme law of the land, ip the constitution or laws of any State to the ding; that we are not thirty-three but cne pation, made such by the constitution, to the world as the American nation; thatany the right of self-preservation, the rigbt to de- fend against enemies from without and traitors arene momen wen te power to do 80. it is its duty to exercise it. ‘ier. AnD, (OFD.) of Tenn., objected to the intro- lution, whep Mr. McKean withdrew it. ‘THE TARDY. ont pen, ae oF hie, Introduced a bill to fur. for the collection of duty on imports, Selerrea to the Judiciary Committee. THR ADMISSION OF UTAH. , Boorxn (delegate from Utah), presented a memo- ‘of the people of that Territory praying to be adinitted into oe Union as a State. Referred to the Committee on ‘THE MOVEMENTS AT CHARLESTON. Mr, Srevens, (rep.) of Pa., introduced a resolution re- the President to communicate to the House, if not incompatibie with the pubiic interests, the condition of |, arsenals and other property at Charleston; any measures has been taken to garrison, an put in condition since it has became evident that Carolina intended to secede; what troops were there then and now; whether bo en have been given to reinforce Fort Sumter since it has been seized by the in- and what orders have been given to the offieers; and whether any vessels of war have been ordered thither since the seizure of the same by the rebels. Mr. Brancn, (opp.) of N. C., objected to the reception of the resolution, us the rules require that such calls on the President for :nformation shail lie over one day. ‘ he geal said that Mr. Branch’s point was wq@l ken. Mr. Srevews moved a suspeneion of the rules. ‘The Srkaksk replied that the motion was not now in order; one hour must first elapse. THR PRESERVATION GF THE UNION. Mr. Pryor, (opp.) of Va., offered the following: — Resolved, That any attempt to preserve the Union between the States ot t ‘eracy by Force would be impracticable and my. a = demanded the previous question, which was or- fered. Mr. Stanton, (rep.) of Ohio, moved to lay the subject on the table. or : ne Mr, Hut, (opp.) of Ga.—I move to adjourn. 1 want to put down this retolution making business. It distracts wee opt ) of Gat ask mM CRAWFORD, (OPP) of Ga,—} colleague to withdraw his motion. ce Mr, Hii—I cannot. Mr. SuxRMAN, (rep.) of Ohio—The previous question has already been ordered. Mr. Hiti—I want al) resolutions touching the condition of the country to have the same reference. Mr. Stayron—If the gentleman will permit me to offer Asubstitute, I will withdraw my motion to lay the reso- Iution on the table. ‘Mr. Hivpman, (opp.) of Ark.—I hope the issue will be Inet directly, a8 certain newspapers and orators have deen talking about coercion. Mr. Hr insisted on his motion to adjourn. Some words of an exciting character passed between Messrs. Barksdale, (opp.) of Miss., and McClernand, (opp.) of Ill. ‘The'only words heard amid the confusion were ‘“‘shirking the question.’ The breeze was not se- rious, and goon blew over. Mr. BaxkspaLs exclaimed~We are ready to meet ou. z ‘The motion to adjourn was negatived. ee question was taken on the motion to table the re- lution. When the name of Mr. Vatiaxnicnam, (opp.) of Ohio, ‘was called, he said—As this inyolyes the direct question of coercion, 1 vote no. ‘The resolution was tabled; yeas 98, nays 55, a8 fol- we: — Yrase Messrs, At of Mass, Adame of Ky., Adrian, Aldrich, allen, Babbit, Beale, Bingham. Blair, Blake. Bray’ ton, Briggs, Bufiveon, Buri Burahim, Cainpbel) Carey, ‘Colfax, Conkling, Cox, Davis of Ind., Dawes, Duell, Edgerton, Eliot, Ely, Et ridge, Farnsworth, Fentcn, Foster, Fouke, French, Gooch, Grow, Hall, Harris of Md, Helm, HA, Howard of jolman, Ohio, + Humphrey, Hutebing, Jun- iin, ’ Kel of Mich.” Kenyon, Kagore, Larrabee, Leach of Mich. Lee," Longné iis Lovejoy, Marston, Martin of Ohio; Maynard, McKeaw, McKenty, Mc" Knight, MePhearson, Montgomery, Moore of Ky., Morris of Pa,, Morris of iil., Morse, Noell, ‘Olin, Palmer, Pendleton, Perry, Peutit, Porter, Quarles, Edwin 'R, Reynolds, Robin™ ton of RB. 1., Robinson of I1.,’ Royce, Sherman, Spaulding, Stanton, Steavens, Stokes, . ‘Thayer, Theaker, Vance, Vandever, Verres, Wade, Walton, Washburn of Wis, Wash’ burne of in, Webiter, Wilton, Window-$6. ha i Avs Mei , Anderson of Mo., Ashley, Avery, Barksdale, Harreth Bosocosk, Branch, Bufeh, Clark of Mo. Clopton, Cobbs sha Cochrane, Craig of Mo., Crawfor Curry, Gurtle, jamette, Dunn, Edmundson, Florence, Gat neett, Gartrel, Hancerman, Harris of Va., Hindman, Hous: ton, Hughes, Jackson, Jenkins, Jones, Leash of N.'C., Lo- “siartin oF Va, Mec McKae, Moore of in, Love, bir Ni Eevee, Pryor, Pugh, Rast, Scott, Si ® » 1 Ws We vai ets, Wel ng Mr. Joun CocuRaxe, (opp.) of N. Y., introduced a reso Jution, whieh was adopted, granting the use of the Hall o Representatives on humiliation aud prayer day, unde the direction of the Chaplain of the two houses. THE NATIONAL CRISIS, Mr. Stevens called up Tesolution above noted. Mr. Sranron proposed » substitute that the Committe on Military Affairs inquire and report how, to whom an for what price, arms have been distributed since Janu ary 1860; and also into the condition of the forts, arsenals dock yards, &c., of the country; whether they’ are sup plied With adequate garrisons, and whether any farthe measures are required to protect the public property ; an that the committee have power to send for persons, pa pers and have leave to report at any time. Mr. STEVENS refused to accept the tubstitute, He wanted the President te speak for himeelf. Mr. Stevens’ question to suspend the rules for the reception of the re- solution was disagreed to, 1 against 62, not two-thirds. Mr. Stanton’s substitute was adopted as an independent resolution. THE SECESEWON OF SOUTH CAROLINA, Mr. Davis, rep. (of Ind..) uxked leave to offer & pream- ble reciting the secession ord.nanee of South Carolina, and concluding with a resolution instructing the Committee on the Judiciary to inquire into the same and report at any time what legislation, if any, has become necessary on the part of Congress in consequence of the position of South Caro Mesers. Lovesoy and Barxspsuk severally objected. Mr. Davis moved a suspension of the rules. Mr. Hormax, (opp.) of Indiana, wished to offer a eub- stitute, asserting that the right of a State to withdraw from the Union is not recognized by the constitution; amd that neither the President nor Congress is invested with authority to recognise any State in any character \only as a State of the Union; that the general government is invested with power to collect revenue, and protect the public property wherever s#uated; that the Commit- tee on Judiciary inquire whether such laws are in force as will euable the government to maintain the property in the severa) States amd elsewhere, and to collect the revenue when an attempt should be made to resist the same; and that the committee inquire whether ip their jon the laws are ineufticient for the accomplishment Of theee purposes. If #0, that they report what mea- sures aré necessary, by the employment of the army and navy, as the exigency of the case may require. Mr. Hit moved to lay the subject on the table. Negatived—42 against 38. Without coming to a conclusion on the subject, the House adjourned till Wednesday. THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONVENTION. Crantasron, Dec. 31, 1860. ‘The Preeiclent stated that the question before the body yesterday, on the closing of the secret session, was a resolm@ion relative to the removal of the lighthouses and buoys. ‘Mr. Chestnut moved that they go Bto secret session. The Convention remained in secret eession till the ad- Journment. REPORTS FROM CHARLESTON. Cuanteetow, Deo. 31, 1860. Strong fortifications have been ordered in and around the harber, to resist any reinforcements that may be sent to Major Anderson Governor Pickens \s in daily receipt of despatches from the South, tendering meu to defend South Carolina from invasion. THE CHARLESTON FORTIFICATIONS. TO THE EDITOR OF THE HERALD, Wasntsarow, Deo. 28, 1860. In reading your paper, as well a8 several others, I find apinaccuracy in the distance given of Fort Sumter from the town of Charleston, Thinking you would like to have the exact distance I send it to you, with several others. Fort Sumter is (334) three and three-cighths miles fre jeston, (134) one and one-eighth miles from Itrie, (XX) three-quarters of a mile to the nearest land, one and three-cigths miles to Fort Johnson and two: and five-eights miles to Castle Pinckney, The last named fort ig one mile from the town, and Fort Johnson is two andja quarter miles from the town. ‘These measuremente are correct, being taken from the iatest surveys made by the United States Coast Survey, AN OFFICER OF THE U. 8. OOAST EURVPY. THE ALABAMA CONVENTION. Wassitxctox, Deo. 31, 1860. The Montgomery Confederation enys the majorig in the Alabama Convention in favor of co-operation will bo 10 t0 16. There are threo classes of eo-operationiets in Alabama. GENERAL WOOL ON THE CRISIS. ‘Troy, Deo. 31, 1860, ‘The Troy Daily Times thie afternoon contains two tet- ters from General Wool, taking strong ground in favor of the Union, and in favor of sustaining Anderson in hie po- sition at Fort Samter, and earnestly urging that a fem etound de adopted to put down rebellion. Hoe deciares that if Fort Sumter be surrendered to the seccesioniete, on by ek bundred —s ee —r 4 news @ venigeanon on all who would betra; ‘pion inte Lhe hande of 118 creme. Py THE LINCOLN REGIME. Our Spr! field Correspondence. SPRINGHIELD, Dec. 26, 1860. The Cabinet Nearly Made Up—Ihe Members Already Se- leced— Foreign Missions—Hoted Arrivals, dc. The developements of the last few days justify the be- lief that the work commenced im good earnest by tho President elect immediately after the meeting of the electoral colleges, some three weeks since, is nearly com- pleted. The long array of names, partly suggested by others and partly booked by himself, with a view to the construction of the Cabinet, bas been carefully sifted. Information as to the antecedents and qiM@itications of the proposed members has been sought and obtained. ‘The claims of the diflerent States and sections have been duly weighed and a partial decision finally arrived at. I say “partial,” because my informa- tion warrants the assertion that certain places in the Cabinet will be held in abeyance until events in the South will have reached a point of culmination, although the probability of a selection of members from th slaveholding States, in addition to Mr. Bates, evidently grows fainter, in view of the bostile attitude lately as- sumed by most political characters from that section mentioned in connection with the Cabinet. The posajbili- ty of a more favorable turn of affairs is pot yet despaired of, and hence room is Jeft for such as might, after all, be found acceptable, As to the component parts of the fractional Cabinet al- ready made up, the country has been apprised, first by the Hxraw’s Springflekt correepondent, and sub- sequently, in an official manner, by the Mis- souri Pemecrat, that the Hon. Kdward Bates, of Missouri, has received the tender of and accepted a place among Mr. Lincoln's constitutional advisers. The post ostensibly assigned to him is claimed to be the Secretaryship of the Interior. But, although the signs confirmatory of that report were strong enough during and immediately after Mr. Bates’ visit to induce my own belief in its truthful- nese, Ihave yetof late receivedsome unmistakeable hints to the effect that it was purposely given out to get certain parties on the wrong scent. I am really all but pereuaded that your Washington correspondent stated tho truth in the premises when asserting that ‘‘the At- torney Generalship was the bona fide position offered to and accepted by Mr. Bates,”? ‘The other memberships already positively disposed of are thé Secretaryship of the Interior and that of the War Department. David Wilmot will hold the former, and John C, Fremont the latter. 1 am confident that the se- quence will substantiate this statement. John C. Fremont has not been heard in reply to the tender of what is but justly due him; but he is expected wo manifest no resistance to the pleasure of the President elect, and the current of popular opinion, that, to all appearances, flows very strong in his favor throughout the free States. Thus we will have— Attorney General..... Secretary of the Interior David Wilmot. Secretary of War...... Jobn ©. Fremont. ‘The head of the Treasury Department will doubtless be procured from among the financial republicans of your city. Either Moses H. Grinnell or Geo. Opdyke will be the man, New England will probably be represented by the Secretary of State, while the Postmaster General and Secretary of Navy will be taken from the South—provided, of course, that suitable material can be obtained from that quarter. If not, New England and the Northwest will each get an additional representa- tive. Although it is well known here that Mr. Lincoln had occupied himself thus far only with this composition of his ministerial council, gossipers have, nevertheless, beep bfisy in distributing other appointments among pro- minent leaders of their party. The foreign missions have for some days furnished the staple of their conjec- tures, Disclaiming all authenticity, I yet subjoin a few of theix “guesses,” in order to show the drift of opinion bereabouts — Minister to London. Wm. H. Seward. Minister to the new kingdom of Italy...Wm. C. Bryant. Minister to Berlin. ¥: Koerner, of Ii! Mr. Koerner not being a politician of national reputa tion, the connection of his mame wiih 80 high a station necessitates an explanation. He is German by birth; has resided in this State for over twenty years. Has held the offices of Supreme Judge and Lientenant Governor, and is an inti mate friend and ardent supporter of the President elect He did yeoman’s service for the cause during the last campaign, and bence may well expect a substantial re ward at the hands of him to, whose elevation to power he contributed eo much. He is said to be a man of great natural parts and profound acquirements; an excellent linguist and a first class lawyer—qualifications which would certainly go a great way towards redeeming American diplomacy from the disgrace into which it has failen 11 Burope, owing to the ignorance and boorishness of some of its present representatives, Among the hotel arrivals of to-day are Chas. A. Morton and ¥. Hoyt, of New York city; F. Metcalf aud J. ¥. Fletcher, of Boston; Abijah Fletcher, from West. ford, Maeeachusetts, and Jas. F. Sherrop, from Phila- delphia. Edward Bates. SprinGrEty, D)., Dec. 31, 1860. Simon Cameron, of Pennsylvania, arrived here yester. day ,and J. P, Sanderson with him. Mr. Lincoln's headquar- ters bave been changed, There are to be no more recep. tions. Cabinct Rumors from Pennsytvania. HARkmBURG, Pa., Dec. 31, 1860. ‘There is strong antagonism to the appointment of Sena tor Cameron to a position in Mr. Lincotn’s Cabinet. Mr. Lincoln telegraphed to Hom. Alexander K. McClure to come to Springfield, and he left for that city to-day. Mr. MoClure is opposed to Mr. Cameron, and the former will meet the latter at Springfield, when it is supposed ‘that a violent rupture will ensue, which it i¢ betiewed will end in the appointment of Hon. Wm. 1. Dayton w place of either of them. Harrisnvra, Pa., Dec. 31—Noon. A despatch received by a citizen to-night announces that General Cameron bas been appointed Secretary of the Treasury, and that he is now in Springfield, and will accept the appointment. The authority for this is deemed reliable. A New Prota Dowxs.—We republished, a short time ago, from the London Musical World, some account of a concert at Rio Janeiro at which the Signorina Elena assisted and won high honors from a very critical au- dience, which included the Emperor and impress of Bra- zi). This prima donna has recently arrived in this city, and it is stated that ehe will make her debut under the auspices of the associated Italian artists. @wnorina Flea pupil of the celebrated maestro Emanuel Gar. cia, and of the Conservatory at Naples. She has sung at Florence, Padua, Naples, and latterly with the famous Medori in Brazil. Her voice is described as a high sopra- no, very sweet, agile and powerful, and her personal at- tractions are of the highest order. Judging by the ac- counts of the artists who are familiar with this prima donna, she must be a jewel of « singer. Acapemy or Mesic.—Tho farewel! benefit of Carl Formes will take place this evening, when “Martha’’ will be given in German at theatre prices. Mme. Johannsen, Mimo. Vor Berkel, Messrs, Formes and Stigelli will sing the leading roles. Personal Intelligence. Hi. $. Glesson, of China; J. 0. Quebec, George Bacon, a De Bantviile, Boston, stopping at the Breyourt joure, Mr. W. A. Waters, of Now York; Mr. Kershaw and wife, and Mré. Head, of Philadelphia, and Mr. Hyllsstead and Wile, of New Orleans, are stopping at the Clarendon jotel. Hon. Charles Delane, of Massachusetts; Charles F. Yond and family, of Hartford; Thomas Watt, of Scot- Jand, Alfred Noxon, of Oreecent, N. Y., aod Judge Sher- man, of Newburg, are stopping at the Fifth Avenue Ho- tel. Dr. Squirer, of Philadelphia; J. K. Hornish and George Wale Or Uk ee indoor Te Boam, Jt., and family, of New, ‘apd D. B. Bxeton, of Ohio, are stopping at the St, N Hote! Col, Laman, of Connecticut; Col, Reynolds and Mr. Coppi ger, of inewnat; W. Hi! Gallaer, of Teunesreo: 3. ‘r H fy stor House. — Gen, Jamer, of Lng ps my | ©. P. Merriman, of Kon- tucky, Mr. H. ‘Benson, uf the United Army: R. J. Lawler, of Texan, 8. 1% . ab aie eet Geren nara ni Metropolitan Bote. dors m 1860. Leading Events in the United States. Railroad and Steamboat Accidents and Fires. Deaths of Revolutionary Patriots or Union Makers, &., OUR DOMESTIC CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS What Oceurred in the United States im 1860. &., &e. JANUARY. Scxpay, 1.—The new year came in cold; thermometer in New York down to within six degrees of zero, In most parts of the Eastern States and the State of New York the mercury went down below zero. At the White Mountains, New Hampshire, it sank to 38 degrees below. Cold weather was also severely felt at the South....4 law expelling all free negroes from Arkansas went into effect in that State. 2.—New Year’s day celebrated, and noted as being more lively than usual. Jack Frost held the mercury in the thermometer down nearly to zero. 3.—The Legislature of New York organized, and the Governor tranemitted his annual message. ‘The Aesem- bly elected Dewitt C. Littlejohn, republican, as Speaker, ‘The newly elected State officers of New York were sworn in at Albany and took their places. 6.—The steamer Northerner, Captain Dall, bound from San Francisco for Portland, Oregon, was wrecked on tho rocks near Cape Mendocino, and became a total loss. Thirty-eight of the passengers and crew were drowned. 10.~An awful catastrophe ocourred at Lawrence, Maes. The Pemberton cotton mills fell with a sudden crash while some seven hundred operatives were at work in the building. About five hundred were buried in the ruins. After a large number bad been taken out, and while the ‘work of rescuing those who were still living was on, the ruins caught fire,end those who were not ¢ to death actually roasted alive. Eighty-oight dead bodies were dug out of the ruins, and nearly three bundred others were more or Jess injured. Subscriptions for re- lief were subsequently started al! over ihe country, and the contributions amounted in the aggregate to nearly sixty-six thousand dollare. 17.—In accordance with the proclamation of Mayor Saunders, which was generally and cordially endorsed, this day was observed in Lawrence, Mass., as an occa sion of fasting and prayer, in view of the catastrophe which occurred in that city on the 10th. It was charac- terized by ageneral suspension of business, as recom- mended by the Mayor, and by exercises in all the churches, The utmost’ solemnity pervaded the whole city. 19.—Shocke of an earthquake were feit at Charleston, 8. C.; Augusta and Macon, Ga., and other points in the Southern States. 26.—The Kentucky and Tennessee Legislatures, accom- panied by a number of the State officors from each State, paid a friendly visit to the Legislature of Ohio, at Couum> bus, the capital. 30.—ighteeu itizens of Mason and Bracken counties, in Kentucky, were expelled from the State on account of entertaining opinions adverse to slavery. FEBRUARY, 1.—The United States House of Representatives, on the forty-fourth ballot, elected William Pennington to the of- fice of Speaker, Mr. Pennington was elected to Con- grees by the people’s party in the Fifth district of New Jersey. He was formerly an old line whig, but as parties now stand he fs @ repubii: He is also a conservative man, with Union principles. The last ballot stood as fol- lows :-— Wm. Peunington, of N. J., American republican. Jobn A. MeClernand, of Ill. demoerat...... John A. Gilmer, of N. C., Southern opposition Seattering... 3.—John W. Forney United States House of Rey man, of Md., was ¢br wentatives, and H. A. Hoff: nt-at-Arms, ‘The House thus completed its ory -A steam boiler ex ploded in the bat factory of Ames & Mouiton, in Brook. lyn, which resulted ia the demolition of a great portion of the building. Six persous were instantly killed, and fifteen wounded. 4.—Aaron D. Stephens, having been tried at Chartes- town, Va., a8 an accomplice of Old John Brown, in his fo- ray at Harper's Ferry, was found guilty of murder. 10.—A tremendous gale occurred in New-York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and the Kastern States, doing an immense amount of damage. A portion of the Point Breene gas works, in Philadelphia, was blown killing two men, Damage to the amount of over $200, was dor property along the Hudson river, 15.—She Post Office Ap jation dill passed the Senate agamended in the House, and the President signed it. The amendment, abolishing the franking privilege was stricken ont. The bill appropriates $4,306,000 for «upply- ing the deticieney in the revenues, and defraying the ex- praee ot the department ending with Jaue, 1869; 000,000 toward the support of the department for the fiscal year ending with June, 1860, anda further sum of $2,400,000 in payment of the salaries of officers and clerks, transportation of the mails, wrapping paper, bags, stamps, &c. Interest at the rate of six per cent per annum, to commence sixty days after t ‘xpiration of the quarter in which the service wes rendered. The interest to be paid ouly to the contractors themselves in full of all dam- ‘ages by reason of failure or delay in payment. No inte- rest is to be allowed on paymeuts for the last quarter end- ing with _— 1859. A sum for this purpose is ap- riated, —The journay men shocmakers of Lynn, Mase., struck nm werease of wages. The strike subsequently ex- ed to Natick, Marblehead, Newburyport, Mi 'y q ill, Sangus, Grafton, South Reading, Salem, Stone- m, Sutton, |. Woburn, Mase; Dover, Farming- Salmon , Seubrook, Northwood, Great Fails, Fails, Hatnilton, N. H., and Portland, Me. The number of shoe” makers engaged in the strike in (he various towns was es- t-mated at about twenty thousand... The equestrian statue of Gen. Washington, tw Clark Mills, was iabegmretea at Woshington city. It ie a size larger than the statue of Jackson, in Lafayette square, by same artist, the per- een of Washington occupying eleven feet of ‘altitude, whilst Jackson's in about nine feet andabaif. The giment, of New-York, a company from Ralti- (one from Alexandria, were present at the inau- Hon. Thomas 8. Bocock, of Virginia, delivered A severe hurricane vinited guratio the imangurative address... New Orieans, and extended through the Mississippi and Ohio valieys, doing considerable damage... one hundred and | twenty-third eunivereary of the birth of Washington was celebrated ino becoming style in ail parts of the country. MARCH, 1.—While workmen were engaged in pulling down the old St. Xavier Catholic church in Cincinnatl, a portion 6f the walis fel! and instantly killed thirteen men. 3.—The Hudson river opened for navigation. 6.—A smal) steamboat named the Alfred Thomas, built torun from Belvidere to Port Jervis, started for Belyi- dere. In trying to get up the faile, above Raston, Pa., she burst her boiler, tearing the boat to pieces and throw* ing the passengers into the river. Thirteen persons wera killed and fifteen others wounded, 14.—The shock of an earthquuke was folt in different parts of Massachusetts. 15.—An earthquake was felt in Carapo city, California, which was £0 severe as to sbake goods from the shelves in stores, 16.—Aaron 1, Stevens and Albert Hazlett, who were engaged with Old John Brown in his raid at Harper's Fer- Ty, were exeented at Charleston, Va.... The Eustern State strikers (boot and shoemakers) inade a groat tira out in procession in Lynn, Mase., numbering ever six thousand, ons thowsand five hvudred of whom were females. Tho spectators wore more than dible that namber, Several ubdred banners were borue by the strikers, and the ty Was decorated in many pinces with flags and stream ers, The proceasion comprised, besides all the strikers of Lybn, several military and tice compenies, with bands of music, and delegations of Indies from Swampscott, Mar- Dichead, Danvers, Saugus, Reoding, Stoneham, Wobwm, Beverly, Salem and other places. 20.—The President sent a mewage to the United States Houge of Representatives, protesting against the action of that body in appointiny inmittee to investigate ru- mored charges of corruption the part of the Exeeu- tive. The President maintained that if specie charges were made, he would be prepered to meet them, AvRIL, 2.—A provisional government for the new territory of Arizona was organized at Toeson by the election of L, &. Owings a8 Governor. Lieutenant Governor, Ygnacia Orrantia;Secrctary of State, James A. Lucas; Comptroller, J, Howard Welle; Treasurer, M. Aldrich; Marebal, Samugh G, Bean; Private Secretary, T. J. Miller. 5.—Frank B. Sanborn, who was sammoned a+ a witnen@ before the Harper's Forry Investigating Commi ties of the United *tater Senate, having refused to appear, was ar rented at Concord, Mase, , but wae subsequently disehare