The New York Herald Newspaper, January 12, 1861, Page 3

NEW YORK HERALD, SATURDAY, JANUARY 12, 1861.—TRIPLE SHEET. OF SOUTH CAROLINA. ‘On January 1 Governor Pickens received from Mr. Ben- in Mordecai, a citizen of Charleston, a check for 000, for the cause of the State and of the South. ie ee NEAR CHARLESTON, ‘The movements are all ‘around us. p bean sons of > vm ‘encouragement equally courageous are earnestly and silently ‘all that men can towards State in a fion to defend herself against i i i 33 a) ar 3 g THE RESOLUTIONS. Resolved, firet, That this Convention do missioner to to each of the slay int a Com- States wally inviti their operation in the apen y, inv! co- ‘with us of @ Southern confeder pext, <n @ permanent government shall have been organized. ‘hird. That the said Commiszioners be authorized to invite the seceding States to meet in convention, at such time and place as may be agreed upon, for the purpose of forming and putting in motion 5 Jrovisional govern- ment, and go that the said provisional government shall be organized and go into effect at the earliest period evious to the 4th of March, 1861; and that the same vention of seceding States shall provide forthwith to consider and propose a constitution and plan for a perma- nent government for such States, which proposed shai! be referred back to the several State Conventions for their adoption or rejection. Fourth, That eight deputies shall’ be elected by ballot by this Convention, who shall be authorized to meet in Convention such deputies as may be appointed by the other slaveholding States who may secede from the federal Union, for the purpose of carrying into effect the foregoing resolution; and that it be recommended to the said States that each State be entitled to one vote in the said Convention upon all questions which may be voted upon therein; and that cack @uake ound 05 many deputies ag are equal in number to the number of Senators and representatives to which it was entitled in the Congress of the United States. THE DEPUTIES. ‘The following are the deputies elected to represent ‘South Carolina in the Se Convention:—Hon. It. B. Rhett, Sr., Hon. R. W. Barnwell, Hon, James Chesnut, Jr., Hon. C. 6. Memminger, Hon. W. P. Miles, Hon. l. M. Keitt, Hon. T, J. Withers. Hon. W. W. Boyce. SOUTH CAROLINA'S MILITARY STRENGTH AND WEAKN! {From the Charleston Mercury, Jan. 9.) War is imminent. Gencral Scott control of the Vinited States government. War is his trade, and war is now his counsel. The sword is his arbiter, and to now looks. Information has passed ,» from New York to Now man-of-war, fin at- ing to enter our harbor, is brought to by the balls redoubte? What hinders her from turning tail. and going again to sea with her reinforcements’ wil we not have opened war with the United States? not Major Anderson be wered and Nothing, surely, but the strength of our redoubts and their ability to sink her. Are ina condition to do it beyond mal We confess to have ‘no accurate military infor! ‘on the point, It maybe #0; but if not, is there time for delay’ Fi ten (hou. negro laborers can and coukl have been had. Should ‘not be made our chief reliance? Two bun- dred borses (which can be had) can remove a large body of cannon in a day; two or five thousand can throw up large embankment in twenty-four hours. 1s not this the time to do it? Why should not at least thirt placed at the east end of Sullivan's Isiand? It strikes us (not being military men) that thie is our point, and not Fort Moultrie. But if this is ‘not sufficient, why cannot all of our chanoels, except Maftit’s channel, be blocked up for the time being ? Js it not worth it, to maintain our power? Will it cost money to remove hereafter such obstructions’ ‘To be sure it will. But will it not cost many, many valvabie lives, if it i¢ pot done? Unless, indeed, the redoubts we have spoken of are iu a sufficient state of readiness to protect, beyond a doubt, the harbor from all and any at. tacks by sea. Will it not do more? Will it not, for the time, tie our hands, and virtually subject ue to the foreign policy and boatile power of the United States t? Bye have said vefore, we are not military men. We have no accurate Knowledge on the subject. We co not intend to interfere with those who have, and whore ba- (eS But the ten yy sen 'e would simply suggest such ideas ae the emergency. and leave them to xo for what they are worth. In all events, let no cost .lelay Prompt itude and action. Hs MISCELLANEOUS. {irom the Charleston Mercury, Jan. 9.) Jock hat night, when our reporter et the a our vicinity of Feet Sumter and Morris Island, all was quiet in harbor. The guard boats were actively plying,"p hauling every unknown ‘would make ramee in our waters, kept the inels on the of ‘All's well!’ could be heard i & 4 F i Hh £6 i i fi ze uf BE? EESEre g : : —E & fe & t i : i : i F Rot possess very ample resources, nor is she laden with Pa spoils of " aoe Her ion very sparse—not amount 000, thie pop tion would not be able to arm and fortify the State, er patriotic her citizens inight he. It is but right; therefore, that the other Southern States should tender some aid to “ little Florida,’’ thus prevent- ing her secession ordinance from becoming too deeply dyed with blood. WHO COMMANDS FORT MOULTRIK? 1848, and was made Brevet Captain ‘‘for gallant and me ritorlous conduct in the battle of 4 on the 18th of April, 1847.’"_ In March, 1849, he was further promoted to be a Brevet Major ‘for ito- rioug conduct in the of .” He wrote and published in tho same year @ two volume work, enti- tled “The War with Mexico.” On the 2d of March, 1863, it Major Ripley resigned bis position in the army. THE SAVANNAH FORTIFICATIONS. FORT PULASKI. (From the Savannah Republican, Jan 5. We received no communication from Fort ski yes- terday, though we learned from a volunteer whoreturned to the city on brief leave, that all was going on well, and that ma Volunteers were in good spirita, ‘the work of repair! perfect gun carriages is vigorous! Eres: timber and mechanics for that pu: tee irpose sent down by the Samson on her first trip, and in a very short time the entire battery of casemated thiriy- Dy all, will to send amount of reinforce- suis Primtiold the: fortrees, esterday morn- ing hment of volunteers, composed of Sa- another vanuah Volunteer Guards and Oglethorpe Light Infantry, Samson. The tug will leave the city for the fort this merning at ten o’clock. j floated at high tide, even then requiring aid to get hei Saar of the bet epon viuah she wen greed. ee ‘The Savannah Vews of the 7th instant gives the follow- imteresting particulars with regard to Fort Pulaski:— and in a much higher state of effici , than apy one bad Not the casemates, but the quarters offivers and privates, are bomb- originally a. Ifa bed had been artistically pre- for the of receiving, capturing and utterly Babel, it could not have been better de- vised. A shell upon it must be buried in the sand beneath from t) to eight fect, and by the above will tyes, deed, the use chonld not be extinguished and eyes, w ex the shel ) ris re talent tee from San Juan 4’ during the investment of Vera Cruz, will remember that the second morning after the ; if 5 jescent pleasurable excitement, Ives sand; their fuses were generally extinguished, and casualties resulting from their explosion, when they did explode, were but few. A very little work will place the interior of Fort Pulaski in such condition as to remove the men within it beyond the reach of even such casual- ties. soldier, one brecchioading carbine, throwing, in the hands of an expert mat |, Sixteen rifle balls a minute, a Colt’s revolver, and one sabre. ‘The ditch around the fort is being rapidly cleaned out, under the orders of Colonel Lawton—rice field negroes: haying been placed at this work. ¢ LETTER FROM A SOLDIER. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SAVANNAH REPUBLICAN, « You have, doubtless, beard of our successful occupation of this fortress, and the circumstances connectei there- with. Since the first detachments of fifty men each from the “Guard” and “Light Infantry,” and twenty-tive men from the “ Artillery,” a reinforcement of fifty men each from the two first named have arrived, making a total of two hundred and twenty-five men now under arms. They are all in fine spirits, and, considering that many of them have only the rations dealt out by the State, exhibit a degree of patience under their privations which docs credit to their soldier-like fortitude. We are under strict military discipline, and the Adjutant read an order yesterday afternoon from the Colonel in command el A. R. or) that any sentinel caught asleep on his post should be shot. This made some of the men draw a long face, but all render a cheerful obedience to every command, and vie with each other in the prompt and accurate dis: charge of their duties. At daylight the revville is beaten and tho rolls are called. At sunrise a gun is fired. At half-past eight o'clock the guard is changed, before which the-otficer of the day examines the quarters, and sees that they are clean, During the day the wholo force is engaged in drilling or putting the amzaunition in order, moving cannon balls and powder, making car- tridges, bags, &c. At sunset auother gun is fired, and a certain’ number of men from the infantry’ corpa drill every day in the manual of the artfllery, ai this service is the chief means of defence. There is a number of me- chanies at work on the gun carriages, patting them in good working order, and in a few days the fort will be in thorough =, repair. At sunset er gun is fired, and at nine o’clook at night the “tattoo” is beaten, and the rol! called again. You may judge from this round of duties, there is but lit- tle time left tree in the shape of fun, though we do have it, notwitl ing. There scems to be # perfect understanding between the officers and men, and the familiarities which are permit- ted when on “bandbox” duty are entirely ignored. A salute is always respectfully given to a commissioned officer whenever he passes, with a pleasure that shows it is from reapect ag much as from duty. It is aremarkable circumstance that but few men are in ghe hospital. Three men were confined to their rooms yeBterday, but I believe are all out to-day. ‘There is the best feeling imaginable between all the corps bere, and a brotherly sympathy which is gratify- ing. Our corps (i. ¢. C. A. de pres with everything, our cuisine is perfect, and we will not have to fight on empty stomachs. There are many opinions ai privates as to the Propriety, of the step we have in obtaining this fort, but whatever these differences are, they are all sunk fn the propriety of obeying our Gov: ernor’s order, and in maintaining the honor and dignity of the Empire State of the South. FORT JOHNSON. Forr Jouxsox, Savannah River, Jan. 7, 1861. No beat shail be allowed to approach’ Foci Johnson, except by the head of the wharf. Every will halt instantly, upon being so command- ed by the sentinel, and will not advance until express permission be given. ‘The sentinel at the wharf will permit no boats to leave without the permission of Cs officer of the . JOSEPH J , Jr., Commanding. ALABAMA. THE FORTS AND ARSENALS NEAR MOBILE. According to instructions given to the State troops in Mobile, they have taken the fort and arsenal near that city ia a manner, The instructions of Gover- nor Moore were, that these as quiet a manner as possible, aud that the ty should be protected. It was not his intention that this irued as defying the government “powers that be,” but merely as an initiative step to- wards protecting the bay and harbor of Mobile, and to prevent an incursion of the State from the coast, after she shall have resumed ber position of sovereignty among the nations of the earth. Ciothed with the robes of independence, as she shortly will be, by having possession of these forts, the State will be enabled to bid deflance to any foe that may at- tempt to invade her Southern borders. SEIZURE OF FORT MORGAN AND MOUNT VERNON ARSENAL, [From the Mobile Advertiser, Jan. 4) ‘The movement of the Mobile companies on int Ver- non Arsenal, up the river, and Fort Mé , down the bay, kept the city ina ferment of ¢ interest yes terday, and it was not until late in the day that intelli gence arrived that both of those points of federal occu- Wteaeer ae were in the hands of the soldiery of the State of Alabama. ‘These events will create a lively senration throughout the eountry, and we should, even by this time, be in receipt of wi edict a exercise of Executive authority may fulminate Bree tion to the high act of sovereignty of the Governor of the State, Wit ‘attempting to forechadow the. post. tion which the federal May assume, we into utter inaction cord the belief tbat it will be the setzure of ite strongholds in Alabataa, it will of Hike — from Georgia, States. strong array of to icy of coercion thue presented will, we may venture . deter red ope its attempt, and reduce the to the treatings of cy and peace a justment of matters ween the fe | govern: ment, as it at presont exists, and the States which he he Pe me ‘The worst has been dared and missioners of as many confederated States as be should be as one body commissioned by a united aut treating with the government at Washington. The ive of war or peace is furced upon the adminis- tration, and it must decide which shall be transmitted to ite successor. ‘The sudden stroke of policy in Alabama, the coup d’ea/ and effectively hig coup de guerre, was, quiet out in this : Acting under the Governor's orders, eleven o'clock on Thursday night, the following com nies detailed for that service embarked on a steamer for Cadets, Capt. Sands; the Fusiliers, Emrick commanding’ the Independent Rifles, Capt. illery, Capt. Ketchum. Steaming down the bay they arrived at the fort about three o'clock, and quietly occupied it, its only nance sergeant and his fami The fort is now held by the greater portion of the force whieh took jon, about two hundred men being un- der arms. works are being put in more defensible condition. The detachment detailed for the seizure of the Mount Vernon United States Arsenal, located forty-five miles uw) the river, consisted of the Mobile Ritles, Captain ‘Wood. ruff; the Washington Light Infantry, Captain ‘Gracie, and Gardes Lafayette, Captain . They embarked as the detachment for Fort Morgan. They arrived at the Arsenal about daybreak, and bei provided with ladders for the escaladed the wall of the premises at three different points simultaneously, and fermed around the armory in the centre. gorrison, consisting of a squad of about thirteen soldiers E and as man} paper i employes, of course made no resistance, ured before they new of the pre- of an enemy. they not been taken by surprise, er, and had bac Agree) so disposed, might have given some trouble and shed some ‘blood, as the Arsenal is defensible against musketry and their number ‘was more than a third of that of their assailants. The Arsenal contains 20,000 stand of arms, 1,500 barrels (not kegs) of powder, 300,000 rounds of cartridge and other munitions. It is now held by thirty men of the Washing- ‘ton Light Infantry, who are having pleasant picnic duty, we suspect. THE LATEST NEWS. IMPORTANT FROM ‘THE SOUTH. Secession of Florida and Ala- bama from the Union. Capture of all the Forts and Arsenals of Louisiana by State Troops. Refusal of Major Haskins to Give Up the Arsenal Surrounded by State Troops When he Surrendered. Occupation of the Public Buildings of St. Louis by Federal Troops. Confirmation of General Dix as Secretary of the Treasury. er ey ae. Avavsrs, Ga., Jan. R, 1861. The following passed the State Convention to-day: Au ordinance to dissolve the Union between the Stato of Alabama and other States, united under the compact and style of the United States of America. Whereas, the election of Abraham Lincoln and Hanni- bal Hamlin to the offices of President and Vice President of the United States of America, by a sectional party, avowedly hostile to the domestic institutions and peace and security of the State of Alabama, following upon the heels of many and dangerous infractions of the coustitu- tion of the United States, by many of the States and people of the Northern section, is a politieal wrong of #0 insulting and menacing a character as to justify the peo- ple of the State of Alabamo in the adoption of prompt and decided measures for their future peace and security ‘Therefore, be it declared and ordained by the people of the State of Alabama in convention assembled, that the State of Alabama now withdraws from the Union known as the United States of America, and henceforth ceases to be one of the said Uuited States, and is, and of right ought to be, a sovereign, independent Beate. Section 2. And be it further declared and ordained by the people of the State of Alabama in convention assem- bled, that all powers over the territories of said State and over the people thereof heretofore delegated to the go- vernment of the United States of America be, and they are hereby, withdrawn from the said government, and are hereby resumed and vested in the people of the State of Alabama. And, as it is the desire and purpose of the people o Alabama to meet the slaveholding States of the South who approve of such a purpose in order to frame a re- visional as a permanent government upon the principles of the government of the United States," be it also Re~ solved, by the people of Alabama !n Convention assem bied, That the people of the States of Delaware, Mary land, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Miesiesippi, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Ten- nessee, Kentucky aud Missouri, be, and they are hereby, invited to mect the people of the State of Alabama by their delegates im Convention on the 4th day of February next in Mout- gomery, in the State of Alabama, for the purpose of con- sultation with each other as to the most effectual mode of securing concerted, harmonious action in whatever measures may be deemed most desirable for the common peace and security. And be it further resolved, that the President of this Convention be, and he is hereby, instructed to transmit forthwith a copy of the foregoing preamble, ordinance and resolutions to the Governors of the several States named in the said reevlutions. Done by the people of Alxbama, in Convention assem: died, at Montgomery, this Fleventh day of January, Bigh- teen hundred and sixty-one. ‘The preambie, ordinance and resolutions were adopted by ayes 61; noes 11. After the adoption of the ordinance the Hall was opened to visitors. A splendid flag, presented by the ladies of Alabama, was conveyed to the President's stand, and formally pre- sented to the Convention in a handsome and eloquent ad. dress. Mr. Suan, delegate from Tuscaloosa, followed in a feel- ing reference to the ‘‘stars and stripes,’ and then in voked the blessings of Heaven on the new flag. Avenevs Baker, of Eufaula, then returned the thanks of the Convention to the ladies iv moet eloquent terms. The ordinance of secession will be ratified next Mon- day, when it is believed that many other delegates wil! sign it An immense mass meeting is now being held in front of the Capitol, and distinguished co-operation delegates are pledging their constituents as a unit to sustain the action of the Convention. The secession flag presented by the ladies is BOW waving over the Capitol, amidst the ringing of belle, the firing of cannon and the cheering of the paople. ‘The most intense enthusiaant prevails. The city is brilliantly iliuminated to-night from thy capital to the river, while the streets are filled with en thusiastic people An immense crowd assembled in Montgomery Hall, and ‘was addressed by Cougressman Curry and Mr. Matthews, of Mississippi, and others. All the speakers were loudly cheered THE NORTH CAROLINA LEGISLATURE. Raven, Jan, 11, 1861 Poth Houses were engaged yesterday and to-day on the State Convention question, which has become complicated by mixing State constitutional reform with federal mat- ters. Amendments for an open and a restricted Conven- tion were offered, but no vote was taken on any. It is the apecial order for Monday. North Carolina is conservative, and would respond to a proposition for an equitable adjustment of difficalt ies, ‘but will have her rights at all hazards, This is the pub lie sentiment here, REJOICINGS IN GEORGTA. . Avousrs, Jan, 12, 1861. A milute of one hundred guns was fired here to day for Florida, and one hundred more for Alabama. Tousmassme, Fla. Jan. 12, 1861. The Florida State Convention passed the crdinance of secession yesterday by a vote of 62 to 7. IMPORTANT FROM LOUISIANA. SEIZURE OF THE LOUISIANA FORTS AND ARSENALS. ‘New Orteas, Jan. 11, 1861. All the fortifications are ‘wow in possession of the Louisiana troops. The United States Arsenal at Baton Rouge, in command of Major Haskins and two companies, refused to surrender this morning. The arsenal was sur- rounded by six hundred State troops, and a parley was held between Governor Moore and Major Haskins, which finally resulted in the surrender of the garrison at twelve o'clock to-day. ‘There was no opposition in taking the other forts. " ‘The Crusader has uot entered the Mississippi. ‘The excitement continues very great. Returns indicate that the secessionists have a majority n the Convention. IMPORTANT FROM VIRGINIA. PROCEEDINGS OF THE LEGISLATURE. Ricawoyp, Va., Jan. 11, 1861 In the Senate, a joint resolution from the House relative to the preservation of the status quo, was received. A substitute waa o@ered, asking of the President an assurance of the preservation of the absolute skius quo for sixty days, except to repel hostile invasions. This was adopted, and the subject finally referred to a select commikee, ‘The House, after a hot debate, adopted an amendmen to the Convention bill, authorizing the opening of polls, at the time of the election for delegates, to take the sense of voters whether any action of the Convention relative to the federal Union shall be submitted to the people for ratification or rejection, by ayes 77, noes 62. Norvorx, Va., Jan. 12. Before daylight this morning a steamer went to the federal magazine wharf, loaded with powder and left. Hor destination is unknown. IMPORTANT FROM MISSOURI. TBE GOVERNMENT PROPERTY OF ST. LOUIS TAKEN POSSESSION OF BY THE FEDERAL TROOPS. Sr. Louis, Jan. 11, 1961. By order of General Scott, a detachment of forty fede- ral troops, under Lieutenant Robinson, took possession of the Sub-Teasury, Custom House and Post Ofte Building early this morning. Everything is quiet. The rea) object of the appearance of the federal troops at the Sub Treasury office this morning 1a... still involyed in mystery. Crowds of citizens have surrounded the Custom House all day, but more curiosity than excitement was manifested. Many ru- mors prevailed, but nothing of a reliable character can be stated. Everything is quiet at present. SECESSION MEETING IN MISSOURI. Wavertrx, Mo., Jan. 11, 1861. An ultra secession meeting was held hero last night. Resolutions were passed strongly denouncing the St. Louis Democrat and forbidding Its circulation. Abram Lincolp was burned in effigy amid the firing of cannon, cheering, torehlights, music, &c. AFFAIRS AT CHARLESTON. Cuarreston, Jan. 11, 1862. The excitement here has somewhat abated, in conse quence of pacific news from Washington. The enlistment of soldiers goes on, but all is quiet. ‘The Legislature did nothing to day. Henry W. Conner, ® member of the South Carolina Convention, died at six o'clock this evening. He was a banker doing business at Charleston and New Orleans. THE RELEASE OF THE MARION. Cuancestoy, Jan. 11, 1861, Sporrorp, Treston & Co.:— ‘There will be no difficylty about the Columbia. The Marion has been returned by the State. They will pay all damages in full. Sbe leaves for New York on Sunday morning at eight o'clock. HENRY MESSROON & CO. IMPORTANT FROM MISSISSIPPI. THE MISSISSIPPI STATE CONVENTION. Jacksoy, Jan. 11, 1861. Mr. Burt, Commissioner from South Qarolina, is speak- ing, with the “lone star’ flag pendant in the hall. ‘The Convention was occupied this morning in the dis- cussion of unimportant local measures. ‘The following were the transactions of the Couyention in secret session yesterday: — The formal reception of the Commissioners from abroad. The resignation of Mr. Gholeon, Judge of the United States Court. ‘The adoption of a resolution recognizing South Carolina a8 sovereign and independent. ‘Thd adoption of a resolution that the postmasters, of- ficers and agents continue until otherwise ordered. The ordinance was signed at half pastten in the morning. The Convention will probably adjourn to Vicksburg on account of the Legislature wanting the capitol. Mr. Burt's speech wae warmly applauded. ‘The ordinance declares that all laws, regulations and contracts of the United States relative to the mail ser- vice, shall be continued in full force. ‘The Governor bas ordered the military to be in rendi- ness at & moment's warning. A call has been issued for Saturday night to complete the organization of the mili- tary of the State. ‘The churehes are decorated with evergreens, and {he lone star is prominent. REPORTS FROM TEXAS. New Onrnase, Jan, 11, 1862. At the Galveston election on the 8th, the candidates favoring a Southern Confederacy obtained a majority THE PENSACOLA FORTS. Cuarcastox, Jan. 12, 1861. A private deapatch to the Cowrrer says that the federal troops have abandoned all the forts in Pensacola harbor exeept Fort Pickens, where they are concentrate:!, and that three hundred men have left Mobile to surprise Fort Pickens, AN ABOLITION MEETING BROKEN UP IN ROCHESTER. Rocuneren, Jan. 11, 1861. Rey. Mr. May, Susan B. Anthony, and others of that stripe, attempted to bold a meeting here to-night. It was broken up by citizens, and resolutions in favor of the Union were passed and cheers given for General Scott and Major Anderson. A flag bearing the insorip- on, “NO compromise with Mavory,” was not allowed to be surpended across Buffalo strect. The authorities pre- vented @ general riot. THE FREEMEN CADETS IN TROY. Tro, Jan. 11; 1961. The wew volpnteer company, the Freemen Cadets, Captain J. W. Armitage, this evening had a large and en- thusiastic meeting at the Mansion House. The hotel wa crowded to the utmost capacity. This company are sub. ject to the orders of the administration, and expect to see active service, for which they are preparing. MESSAGE OF THE GOVERNOR OF INDIANA. Isptayaroum, Ind., Jam, 11, 1861. Governor Hammo nd’p Message relatce mainly to ib state'of affuire, He says, the law for the protection of the baliot box against fraud is defective. He recom- mends the passage of # law inflicting heavy penalties for He says the strength of the federal government rests in the affection of the people of the several States, and is one of aftection, not of force. An alienation of the affections of the North and South exists, attributable to the agitation of the slavery question at the North, which agitation has been materially intensified by the zealous efforts of a class of political teachers belonging to the ministry. This has Produced ultraism at tho South, resulting in the division of the country into sectional parties. Against these ultraisms of the North and South, it is the duty of the conservative element of the whole country to interpose. This must be done, or disunion is inevitable. The North bas as much interest in the South, in the welfare and progperity of the Sonth, a8 our Southern brethren. The constitution demands that fugitives slaves be returned. Common honesty requires that they should have ful! and equal rights in all the territories. The future condition of the territories, so far as the extension of slavery is concerned, will be ultimately determ. ined, natural laws, climate, soil, productions, &o. ‘The election of Mr. Lincoln has caused the South to believe there is no longer any safety for them or their property in the Union nor the slaveholding States, There can only be permauent peace between the sections when the free States are ready to stop the dis- cussion of the abstract question of morals connected with this subject and look upon it only as a political question. ‘What is most needed is the restoration of kindly fecling. ‘Then we may hope an honest and faithful discharge of all the constitutional obligations toward each other will result in healing the present breach. He points with pride to the fact that Indiana as a State hitherto has fully kept the bond of union with her sister States. Her record is untainted by any act of bad faith. The House to-day passed a resolution to display the American flug from the Capitol dome and fire a salute of thirty-three guns in honor of the Union while the flag was being hoisted. MASS CONVENTION OF WORKINGMEN. Premanuna, Jan. 11, 1861, ‘The mass Conventi@n of Workingmen to-night was an immense gathering. Henry B. SicCarty, President of the Trades Assembly, was called to the chair, and W. K. Moody, of the Typographical Union, made Secretary. Reeolutions expressive of fraternal attachment to the Union, calling on the President to execute the law against ail traitors, were adopved with a most hearty good will. A call for a National Conyeution of Workingmen a’ Phi- lddelphia on the 224 of February was endorsed. ‘Wasanycroy, Jan. 11, 1861. The correspondence between Major Anderson and Gov. Pickens is commented upon in Congressional and diplo- matic circles to-day, and with some severity upon the course pursued by Major Anderson. But those whose comments are most severe know the least about the mat- ter. Thosa who are likely to know most about the facts contend that Major Anderson has acted wisely. His first letter to Gov. Pickens does not exhibit the slightest knowledge, on his part, that the vessel fred into was the Star of the West, conveying him reinforcements and stores; and it is probable that he did not know the fact until it appeared in Gov. Pickens’ answer. This develope- ment probably caused Major Anderson to delay his purposes until be could communicate with the War De- partment at Washington. In order to do this he must so conduct himself towards. the authorities of South Caro- lina as to obtain the right of way across that State. At the expense of a little courtesy he accomplished that ob- Ject, and in a few hours Major Anderéon’s messenger will arrive here by extraordinary express, when we shall have a clearer insight into the matter, It is natural to suppose that Major Anderson was surprised to hear that the vessel fired into was bearing reinforcements, because only a few days since he assured his brother, who visited him at Fort Sumter, that he did not want reinforce- Ments. His brother bar 50 reported vines he returned to this city. All these confirm the theory advanced in this correspondence, that the Star of tho West was not intended for Charleston. The order given to the commander of that vessel to'go to Charleston was ouly intended to exist until within an hour of her depar ture from New York, when the real place of destination was to be named by telegraph. A despatch was sent to that effect, ordering the Star of the West to Fort Mon roe. It was too late; and then the Brooklyn was telo- graphed to leave Norfolk immediately, and intercept tho Star of the West and order the captain to land his troops at Fort Monroe, in Virginia. ‘There is reason to believe that the despatch to Norfoli was intercepted, as the Brooklyn «id not sail untila message was sent to her commander iv writing, when, ‘as the country knows, it was too late to reach the Star of the West and prevent her going to Charleston. This being apparent, the government at once assumed the responsibility, and now take the position that they must sustain (he honor of our flag, so grossly insulted by the evolutionists at Charleston. Report seys that the Fulton has been ordered to go to the rescue of the Star of the West, and conduct hee to Fort Sumter at all hazards; but this is not likely, in view of the approach of a messenger from Major Anderson. ‘The reported preparation of the authorities of Charles. ton to receive the Brooklyn ia, of little consequence if true, os it is well known that she draws too much water to cross the bar in Charleston harbor. Agenticman jast from Charleston saya he does not believe that the Star of the West was intended to go there, believing Geveral Sont the preparation going on there to receive her to send, under such circumstances, 91 hell tke the Star of the West upon such an errand. This gentle man says that when he left, on Sunday, al! the gun wey double shotted for the expevial benelil of the Star of West. Lieut, Talbot arrived here ceeded at once 10 the President with despatches from Major Anderson, The Cabinet were im scesion at the time, ana continued in session until a tate hour, What action the government will ke iu this matter is not known. It is a question of the hig! will be deliberated vpon calmly and dispaswionately. 1b Will probably not be decided before to-morrow. ‘There is one important fact in connection with this mat ter which may have considerable weight ia deciding the poliey to be pursued, and it is this-—Major Anderson autio- rized hie brother to telegraph to the Presifent, after hie interview at Fort Sumter, that he did not wish any reinforcements. He did #0, but the people who had charge of the telegraph refused to send hie despatch. Ir the President bad received thia intelligence the reinforce. ments would not have beon sent, which would have saved all the trouble. The Major now reiterates the same hing. He says he bas ali the force ani supplies that he requires, and can defend himself at all hazard. Dewpatches were received to-day by the Louisiana and Florida Senators, stating that tho forts aud arsenals in their respective States had been taken by authority of the government# of these States. It appaars that the Senators of these States telegraphed some days ago to theie Governors to seize them without delay, and their orders bave been complied with. Governor Fiazpatrick to-day received a deepatch from Alabama, informing him that his State to-day passed the ordinance of secession, and had linked her destiny with South Carolina and Mississippi. The Mississippi delegation to-day received despatches from the Cowvention, urging them to withdraw at facts to be too well posted about armed wooden at two o'clock, aad pro: st importauce, and once from Congress. They may, therefore, determia to leave to-morrow; if not then, certainly on Monday when Alabama and Florida will probably follow. ° Wasinworoy, Jan. 11, 186%, Mr, Thomas has resigned his position in the Cabinet a Secretary of the Treasury, and Gen. Dix, «f New Yorlgy was nominated to the Senate for that place. General Dix was tendered the position of > ecretary of War, but preferred that of the Treasury. The rule ree quiring a reference of nominations tw the appropriatg committees of the Senate ms always courteously euspends edjwhen the nomince ix an ex-Senator, as is Mr. Dix, om the ground that his character and qualileations are suffle ciently known without special investigation, The rug ‘on this occasion was unanimously suspended, and Mr, Dix immediately coufirmed, The members now im the Cabinet are a unit on the present political questions, al those claiming the right of secession having retired. This bas been brought about mainly in consequence of the belief by the loan takers in New York that the trea. sury of the government was in the hands of secessioniate, as advised you in my despatch in the Heat of the st inst. Gen. Dix’s nomination has been mado as much 1 restore confidence in the financial world, especially i@ New York, as for any other reason. No nominations have been made up to four P.M, for Secretaries of War and Interior, Mr. Bolt, ® will be recollected, is only acting Secretary of War, his nomination having never been sent to the Senate. It is said by tome that this has not been dong from a fear that the Senate would net confirm (he wombs nation of Mr. Holt, Several distinguished Secators lige form me that this is‘hot true, James M. Carlisle, of Virginia, will probably be somt. nated for Secretary of the Interior, and Mr. Branch, of North Carolina, is talked of as Postmaster General, is the event that the Prosident sends Mr. Holt’s name to the Senate for Secretary of War. General Dix's appointment will undoubtedly result the removal of Mr. Clayton as first assistant Secretary of the Treasury, hp being chiefly objected to by the loam takers. It is said that Mr. Taylor, Chief Clerk of the New Yorks Post office, will be appointed Postmaster. ‘So thoroughly satisfied are the military authorities of the government that an attempt will be made upon tbh@ ‘Treasury and other valuable government departments ig the District on or before the 4th of March, that a military guard has been placed in them, and a strict watch wily be kept upon the thieves who have so long plundered the government of its treasure. ° The Interior Department is strongly fortified. Ther@ are two millions of dollars worth of bonds remaining there, notwithstanding the demonstration recently mad@ upon that branch of the government. The Alabama Com- gressional delegation have been requested to leave her immediately and return home. Thoy will probably com@ py. Wasmvoroy, Jan, 11, 1861. At a private dinner party yesterday, high words passed between Senator Toombs and Lieutenant General Scott. According to relations in Congressional circles, the cotte versation turned on the sending of troops to Chariestom, when Senator Toombs expressed the hope that the peopla there would sink the Star of the West. The General with much earnestness, asked whether it was possible that he, ag an American, desired such anevent? Mr. Soombe ré- plied aflirmative:y, and said that those who vent the yeas sel there should be sunk with her. General Scott there upon said he was rosponsible for what he said, and dir, ‘Toombs remarked, ‘‘ you know me for twenty-five years, and are aware that I too am responsible. The matter bora ended, but the subject, it is said, is now in the hands of friends. I am authoritatively informed that the Miesiasippi members of Congress will preseut their resignations to the House to-morrow, and the Senators will probably do it to-morrow, but circumetances may postpone such age tion until Monday. A despatch tas been reeoived front Mississippi by the entire delegation from that State urging them to return home immediately, their eervices beimg very much required. A despatch is just received stating that the secession convention of Alabama, by @ vote of seventy-eight ta twenty-two, this evening adopted an ordinance in favor of secession. The twenty-two men finally acquiesced and signed the ordinance. A private letter from Fiorida, dated January 7, says, a number of delegates from West Florida express them- selves to the effect, that if the State should s@- cede without 4 proper general understand- ing, they will secede from the other part of the State, and all west of the Apalachicola river will annex themselves to Alabama. The Argena! at Cata- hoochie has been seized by order or the Governor, under the pretext that @ United States officer was about tore move arms. ‘The House Committee of Thirty-three were called to gether to-day by the Chairman, Mr. Corwin. The atten- dance was good. Mr. Dunn, of Indiana, from the sub. committee appointed at the last meeting to shape certaim Propositions and embrace them ina report, notifed the committee nat he had attended to that duty. Before the report was acted upon, however, a discussion sprang ap on one of the propositions submitted ata previous meeting by Mr. Adams, that it is the paramount duty of every goo citizen to acquiesee in the election of any man elevated to the Presidency in accordance with the constitution and laws. Mr. Wilson, of Virginia, moved to strike oat the word “paramount,” aud to substitute therefor the words “high and imperative.” ‘The resolution then passed as amended by « large vote Mr. Dunn's report was wext taken up. ‘The principal proposition was submitted io the form of an aticndment to the constitution, embracing Mr. \dama? firet plan to prohibit interference with slavery in the slave States; also, another amendment, covering Mr. Adams’ proposition, to admit New Mexico asa State, with with or without slavery. Singular ae it may seem, when a motien wes made to receive the report from the committee, Mr. Adams voted againet it. He was beaten, and then he moved, after some discus#on showing that the commitice was dig- cordant in its views, that they report back to the Housg that an agreement is impossible. ‘This was discussed, but uot voted upon, and lays over for settlement ‘The Convention then adjourned to Monday. Mr. Hunter's speech in the Senate today if received as evidence that Virginia intends ta secede, When Mr. Hunter announced that the South was in favor of peaceable separation, and 4 reconstruction of the Union, Mr. Baker, of Oregow, asked bim if, until uch time, supposing the North woukl consent, he (Hunter) was willing to remain vader the present constitution, and would agree to nae his infiuene@ and position to sustain it? Bo this question Mr. replied that he could not speak for bis State, and could not answer the question any more satiefactorily, Thig ‘answer is taken av decidedly pointing to disunion. Mr. Seward follows Mr. Hunter to-morrow, and tha greatest auxiely prevails among ull parties to know what he is going to say, from the fact that he is to be Premier of the incoming adm'n stration, and therefare whatever he may say on the momentous affairs of the times willl necessarily be received as the authorined promeciqe mento of that government. Tt i believed be will ex- tend the olive branch, What his propositions are is s06 known. He says he has bee addreesed by hundreds from the North to agcertain his views, but he mays be ha not indicated to any one their nature. They will aot be acoeptadle to either extremes and will probably be Cg nounced by both. General Cameron, it i wmderstocd, i pre foring @ letter for publication, im whieh he will define his position, and give his reason for declining a seat in Mr, Lincoln's Qabinete He will show up the venal and corrupt combinationg who have endeavored to injure him. General Camerom did not and does not devire a scat in the Cabinet. Hig position as Senator is infinitely moro agreeable to him. William H. Weeks, State elector of California, bearer of the electoral votes of that State, and C. A. Washburne; editor of the Sen Franciseo Daily Times, also ap eleator of that State, have arrived bore, Timothy Davie, a member of the Thirty-fourt> om CONTINUED ON TENTH PAGE