The New York Herald Newspaper, February 21, 1861, Page 1

THE NEW- YORK HERALD. MORNING EDITION—THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1861. WHOLE NO. 8931. THE HEADS OF THE NATION. The President and Vice Presi- dent Elect in New York. Mr. Lincoln’s Reception and Levee at the City Hall. Pithy Speech of Mayor Wood and the President’s Reply. The Rush of the Populace to Greet the Great Rail Splitter, @Ourious Scenes, Incidents and Say- ings Among the Crowd, Mr, Lincoln’s Interviews with Ladies, Merchants, Politicians, Bowery Boys and Veteran Soldiers, THE DINNER AT THE ASTOR HOUSE. Visit of the Lincoln Family te the Museum, THE PRESIDENT AT THE OPERA. The Midnight Serenade in Honor of Mr. Lincoln, The Arrival and Reception of the Vice President, &e., &e., &e. WHAT MR. LINCOLN DID IN THE MORNING. Shortly after eight o’clock A. M. the President elect en- tered a carriage for the purpose of paying a visit to and taking breakfast with Moses H. Grinnell, Esq. Mr. Lin coln was accompanied by Major Sprigg, General Webb, Thurlow Weed and Mr. Judd. The manner in which Mr. Troy (formerly engineer of the Astor House and now one of the special force of the Metropolitan Police) managed to get Mr. Lincoln out of the house without notive was very creditable. While all those anxious to see the Presideat ‘elect were stationed on the stairway in the front of the house, Mr. Lincoln and friends were very quietly walking down the stairs of the Vesey street entrance, and hal been @riven off before even many of the waiters of the hotel ad known he was outof bed. At Mr. Grinnell’s house Mr. Lincoln met about a hundred of our principal merchants. At about half-past ten o’clock the Presidential party returned to the Astor House, entering by the same door from which they had earlior taken their departure. During the absence of the President elect several poli- ticians and others loitered about the corridors of the hotel. Among the party were Messrs. Opdyke, Hoxie, Haws (Comptroller), Barnum, Dr. Ladlow, &e., all of ‘whgm obtained private interviews with Mi.1L. Ano- ther important party also appeared, during the absence of ‘hie paternal relative in the corridor adjoining the recep- tion room, and consisted of the junior sprig of the “wooden” nobility, who marched about full of spirits— ‘not alooholic—biowing @ paper trumpet. Barnum asked ‘the little fellow what his name was, when the juvenile answered through his trumpet “Lincoln,” and off he went again to his own music. ‘The police guard of the Astor House consists of twenty- four officers, selected from the different wards, under the charge of sergeants Wilson of the Harbor Police, and Pee! of the Third precinct. Someo f these officers had charge of the Prince of Wales during his visit here. THE DEPARTURE FOR THE CITY HALL. Shortly before half-past ten o’clock certain gentlemen made their appearance at the door of the reception room, and by the remark of one, as he pulled on his kid gloves, viz., ‘The remnant of the Japanose,” it could easily be understood that they belonged to the Corporation. When Mr. Lincoln appeared there was the usual state of ‘‘flustification” and Dustle that mark the general mode of procedure ‘with our corporative bodies. As eleven o’clock ap- proached, one inquired of another ‘When they were to start?” and the answer was characteristic of the mode of action of another official body—Oh, we are waiting for the Supervisors.” But at length they came, and Super- ‘ptendent Kennedy was informed that all was ready. ‘With his usual secret diplomacy he marched through the crowd at the head of the front stairway, telling the offi. cers to keep the way clear, as the resident was coming. Of course all eyes were taken from him to look for Mr. Lincoln, and the former quietly slipping up the other staircase, at the opposite end of the lower corridor, took the President elect down the Vesey street stairs. But although the crowd inside the hotel were thus ‘ bamboozled,” those outside ‘“warn’t to be,” as one man remarked. They saw a carriage with four dark horses waiting at the Vesey street door, and while that stood there no power of police on earth could per- suade them the President would como out of the front door, There they swood, and cheered every one who made his appearance at the Vesey street door, even the darkey, and the characteristic “hi, hi, hi’s,” were loud ‘and sonorous. When Mr. Lincoln came out he was grect- ed with a lowd cheer, although at least three-fourths of the spectators saw nothing more than the top of the um- brella. The sight of this was all the reward they gained for standing over an hour in the damp slush and soft anow. ARRIVAL AT THE CITY HALL. ‘The carriage containing Mr. Lincoln and party, fellow- ed by another drawn by two horses, pasted from Vesey street along the front of tho Astor House and the wost side. of the Park, entering the latter by the path opposite the Brondway Bank. Of jcourso! the crowd assembled at ‘Vesey street followed, splashing themselves with slush, @nd many of the disappointed ones from the front en- trance of the hote! also rushed to try and get a glimpee of Mr. L. ag he ascended the City Hall stops, At the Gity Hall the steps were literally crowded, leav- ing a narrow passage up the centre. A large number of persons wore on the balcony, and a still larger crowd formed lins on both sides of the path leading through ‘the Park infront of the City Hall. As Mr. Linooln left his carriage the crowd gave a long and continuous cheer, which lasted til! he disappeared within the building. THE RECEPTION AT THE CITY HALL. Here the police arrangements were also admirable. A Woeral distribution of the Motropolitans through the several passage ways and at the ‘head of the different stairs prevented « crowd, and Mr. Ligcoln was enabled to walk from his carriage to the Governor’s room with as Iittle obstruction aa if he were in &is own garden at Springfield. In these ‘Governor's rooms,’’ made tistoric by their use on similar occasions, and by the array of pictures, which recalled the glorious past of the city and country, were the Mayor and a number of gentlemen connected with the manicipal government. Reporters, too, had gathered after running a gauntlet something like the fol- owing: — Can't pest, sir.” “But I'm a reporter.” “Can't help that; our orders are to admit nobody.” “why, my dear sir, I'm on duty as important s# your own. Must pass in, any how. Reporters are not among the nobedies, you know.”” “Well, J'll seo,” says the policeman, somewhat moll) fed. * (, here’e a reporter of the Hanaun,’? We are accordingly ushered along a double line of heavy breasted Metropolitans, and stand face to face with the redoubtable chef de squad. Revorrsr oF Tas Heratp—Sir, want to go in. Where’s your documents. Here, sir (producing them). “ Allright,” responds the Sergeant, and with s sort of ‘Kangaroo jump under the impetus of the stalworth officer's muscles we are landed on the floor of the Governor's Room. ‘The President elect arrived shortly after eleven o'clock. The Mayor took his place behind the rosewood table; Mr. Lineon, attended by the Committee of the Common Council, rested immediately opposite. The appearance of the two men was striking enough for a picture. The chief magistrate of the city, dressed, with his usual good taste, in a suit of black, with his coat “buttoned tightly across his breast, looked upon the Presi- dent elect of the country with an eye that never removed its gaze during the two addresses. The chief magistrate of the country, also dressed in black, a head taller than the Mayor, looked calm and collected, but did not return the steady gaze that was fastened upon him. Thus dis- posed, the Mayor and future President vis a vis, and the spectators gathered in @ circle around, the Mayor spoke as follows:— MAYOR WOOD'S SPEECH. Mr. Lixcous—As Mayor of New York, it becomes my duty to extend to you an official welcome in behalf of the Corporation. In doing so, permit me to say that this city has never offered hospitality to a man clothed with more exalted powers or resting under graver responsibilities than those which circumstances have devolved upon you. Coming into eflice with a dismembered government to reconstruct, and a dissonnected and hostile people to re- coneile, it will require a high patriotism and an elevated comprehension of the whole country and its varied in- terests, opinions and prejudices, to so conduct public affairs as to bring it back again to its former harmoni- ous, pec bate pel Prosperous condition. If 1 refer to this topic, sir, it is because New York is deeply interested. The it political divisions baye serely alflicted her . All material interests are paralyzed. Her commercial greatness is endangered. She is the child of the American Union. She has grown up under its mater- nal care and been fostered by its paternal bounty; and we fear that if the Union dies the present supremacy of New York may perish with it. To you, therefore, chosen under the forms of the constitution as the head of the confederacy, we look for a restoration of fraternal relations between the States—only to be accomplished by peaceful and conciliatory means, aided by wis- dom of Almighty God, Ms To this Mr. Lincoln, calmly and without the slightest mark of trepidation, responded as follows:— SPEECH OF MR. LINCOLN, Mr. Mayor—It is with feelings of deep gratitude that I make my acknowledgment for this reception which has been given me in the great commercial city of New York. 1 cannot but remember that this is done by @ people who do not by a majority agree with me in_ political sentiments. Itis the more grateful because in this recep- tion Igee that, in regard tothe great principles of our government, the people are very nearly or quite unani- mous. Tu reference to the difficulties that confront us at this time, and of which your Honor thought tit to speak so becomingly, and so Lge By) I suppose, I can only say that I finy concur in the sentiments ox- eased by the Mayor. in my devotion to the Union [ Pope I am behind no man in the Union; but as to the wisdom with which to conduct affairs tending to the preservation of the Union, I fear that even too"great confidence may bave been reposed in me. Jam sure I bring a heart devoted to the work. There is nothibg that can ever bring me wil- lingly to consent to the destruction of this Union, under which not only the commercial city of New York, but the whole country bas acquired its greatness, unless it were to be that thing for which the Union itself wus made. I understand a ship to be made for the carrying and preservation of the cargo, and so long a the ship can be saved, with the cargo, it should never be abandoned. This Union should likewise never be abandoned unless it fails and the probability of its preser- vation shall cease to exist without throwing the passengers and cargo overboard. So Jong, then, as it is possible that the prosperity and the liberties of the people can be preserved in the Union, it shall be my purpose at all times to preserve it. Thanking you tor the reception given me, allow me to come to a close. As soon as the applause which followed the last tone of Mr. Lincoln’s voice had subsided, the Mayor observed that those members of the Common Counsil who were to be presented to the President elect would now haye an opportunity to come forward. The members of the Re- ception Committee, who went to Albany, and other Com- mon Councilmen who called at the Astor House, having already passed through the pleasing experience, only a limited number of our metropolitan tax-a it img representatives remained to be receiv ino Abraham’s bosom. Those who sought the intro. duction were trotted out before the President with- out a deal of ceremony, and when tue! had of the Presidential hand seemed highly At least they smiled, or tried to smile, in the most benignant manner possible. A ghastly grin, however, is peculiarly characteristic of a corporation smile on such an oceasion. The chief conservators of the city’s honor, Boole and , Were prominent in the —. Brady was at the first to put up his paw for the Presidential to shake; but Boole looked exceedingly solemn. It was @ matter of serious covjecture concern- ing the netorious Boole as to what change had come over the spirit of his dreams. A satistactory solution of the perplexing problem was found in the remembrance of the sad calamity which befel the ubiquitious and captivating Tommy soon after hig return to his own fair Flowery Land. ome | was at once the life of the Japanese Embassy, the delight of Van Tine and the especial favorite of Boole, whose attentions to him were little leas than those paid to the Tycoon. The news of Tommy's decapitation, so unexpected and 80 sudden, has had a won effect upon Van Tine and Boole, and the idea was humauely entertained that some advisatory or compulsory measures tight be absolutely necessary in order to prevent both of them committing self-destruc- tion, or what the eee call hari-kari. But these fears were lost sight of by the many for the moment, in “f the ents for the ad- mission of ed in from the Park in order to see the President elect. SCENES DURING THE RECEPTION. ‘These may be fairly said to baftie all description, No sooner was the word given that the President was ready to receive the public and to shake hands with all who desired that pleasure, than the corridors of the City Hal! became a sort of menagerie in which a variety of tame and wild beasts struggled for the supzemacy. The doors once the crowd poured in, despite the ef- in all @l imaginable, ‘ ‘thin, old and young, rich and Poor, male and female—though the latter were fow and rar betweeo—it was ome continued heterogenous out- of humanity, such as can be gathered together in no other place outaide of New York. Germans, Irish, Italians, Frenchmen, Americans, republicans, democrate, people of no particular political opinions, old soldiers, young Yankees, all weat to make up the picture. The etyle, too, in which they came into the room was amusing. (Outside, the crowd was roaring and urging like the waves of an angry sea. Policemen were shouting at the wop of their ‘voioes, ‘Ki back,’ “Don’t crowd so,” “Shut ’em oif,’’ “Close that 3” while civilians ‘isoned ia the eddy ing mass would emit ali sorta of frantic ona ive of their misery, such as “Qh, God!’ a my arm!” “Keep my toes, God damn “Here, give me ‘Make room elbows ‘that for this lady;” ‘Paes on;” out of my and & remarks, such as would be forced out of a man only under hi Ree As the crowd came into the room where tl esident clect was receiving the ually ludicrous. fome ould come in ahackwards, others forwards, otbere at an angle 'y five degrees; f landed on all fours, jk the unfortunates, it was a y’—but not by any means a ‘jam satis-factory.”” agreeable impression of the first instalment of New \presaion iment ow Yorkers who thus before his vision, for tollettes were ‘ing bu’ complete, and clothes in anything but a presentable shape. Fat mon— always a nuisance in & crowd—seemed to suf- fer more than anybody felse. Our — reporter counted no Jess than a hundred during the first hour, who looked as if they might have been dragged through a brush fence—hair dishevelled, clothes awry, faces gtim and sweaty and b eyes—that told too ‘plainly of the miseries through which they had passed. Some- thing of an idea of the crowd without may be gathered from the fact that every man who entered the Governor's room vented his satisfaction, astonishment and disgust in one prolonged “Whew!” expressing a sense of relief in this single sigh that is not possible to convey upon paper. Soveral ladies were unfortunate enough to be in this jam, but, as one of them—a stout lady from Lilinois— remarked, she was willing to endvire a “tighter #queeze’? yet for the pleasure of shaking hands with the President of the United States. For an hour this terrible contest of every man to get ahead of his neighbor continued without cessation. Atyr that arrangements were made by which a single file was formed, and all who deeired it were aliowet the oppor tunity of gratifying thomselves + ith a Presidential hake with @ moderate expenditure of patience and comfort. MR, LINCOLN BESIDE THE STATUE OF WASHINGTON, After the city officials and the few invited guests who were favored with an early entrance’ into the Governor's room bad been introduced to him, Mr Lincoln was looking about to find a more favorable spot to reveive the multi- tude outside, when he passed along to the end of the cen ire room, benide Houdon's bronze avatoe of the immortal Washington, at the same time remarking in the mosy character ‘etic manner, ‘1 will plant myself here, and place my bs'ek tn front of the old General.” It was an in- teresting ine tent, and might bo takon # rane s desirous of himself a ' po » hat the Pregident clog pd Washington,” portunity of mak and that he would profit by the a!v'ce of the Hrratp 0a the day of hie arrival, to the foll »wing effect:— If Mr. Linco degires to be thw second Washington 0° this great confederacy, let him come out emphatically in his inaugural in fayor of the Crittenden resolutions ag amendments to the constitution; kt him call an extra session of the new Congress, and in his first message boldly reiterate this and its submission at once to the people tbroughout the States; let him appoint his Ca- Dinet, but not diepose of another office in his gift till this great and overwhelming question is settled 48 Mr. Lincoln stood bere in front of the atatue of Washington, Col. Ward H. Lamon, of Illinois, occupied @ position on the right, and his Honor Mayor Wood « place on the left. Beside the Mayor stood Alderman Cornell, Chairman of the Commen Osenetl Camunitice, snd he as- ree citizens as each was individualy present to the President elect. Arrangements were then effect- ed so that the crowd would enter the Governor’s room by the centre door, th the open rapk of officials and invited — guests, pay their respects to the hero of the hour, andYdey through the western door, down to the vestibule of the Hall, and out to the Park again to mingle with the anxious crowd below. THE INTRODUCTION OF THE POPULACE. At fifteen minutes past eleven o’clock the door was opened, and the public admitted. A tremendous clamor and rush characterized the entree of tho populace. The police carried out their instructions to let im only a limited number at a time, so ag to prevent an unusual rush coming upon the President elect. The crowd com- menced pouring in, and each person as he passed had the privilege of a personal salutation from Mr. Lincoln, and a cordial shake of his hand. At first they came steadily and regularly, when Mr. Lincoln remarked, “Oh, | could stand ie as ick as they come now for six hours!) You you could?’ interrogated the Mayor. ‘Ob, yes! easy enough,” replied the President elect. ; _ As the si of human beings continudd to flow paat, it was curious to notice in the different individuals the varieties of character evinced in their deportment, and the difference in taste displayed in their apparel. It was not strange that, as the day was damp, a large majority carried umbrellas under their arms. Besides umbreilas, some were hugging their shawls, which, iv their struggle to pasn throug the doorway, they had barely rescued from the of the uniformed Metropolitans, Others were swept along with such velocity that they Jost all thought of their chapeau until they found them- selves close beside the President elect. they doffed their hats in the most amusing manner possible. Some cast side glances at him as they | reowre | some stared him full in the face, while every one looked back to have a second glance of him. One man, in a distinct voice, said, emphatically, “Str. Lincoln, I am yery happy to see you,’ at which the President smiled. “Along the tide came, and with it one pious old gentleman, who said, “allow me to present you with the words of Christ,” at the tame time placing in Mr. Lincoln’s hands a document or pamphlet. One individual was profane enough to sug- gest, sotto voce, that when he should open it he might find it to be, instead of select es of Scripture, an appli- cation for office. The shiking of hands continued, occa- sionally two persons coming up at the same time, when Mr. Lincoln would extend both bands. It was agreed that the great rail splitter should shake hands with all who came until twelve o'clock, after which hour be would merely bow to the citizens as they passed. “God bless you, sir,”” was religiously said by an elderly gen- tleman, while another, who followed him, seemed to have an ‘irrepressible coutlict” with his glove, which obsti- nately refused to come off. A desperate final pull, how- ever, relieved his perplexity, and the ardent admirer of the Prince of Rails was permitted to take him by the hand. Another instalment of civilians was let in by the police, and more introductions en- sued. The majority passed without having their names announced, for to go through all that formality would occupy too much time. Indeed many who paseed uring the first half hour were not citizens of New York. They were country people, and being in the city bad embraced the opportunity to gee the President elect, while some, with that object in view, notwithstanding the slect, had come from the surrounding suburbs, But as public officials or well known citizens came for- ward, their mmes were pronounced by the Mayor, Mr. Cornell, or some other member of the commitice. The Health Officer made his appearance, and the Mayor intro- duced “Dr. Gunn.”” After he had Mr. Lincoln observed, “I suppose he is the author of Gann’s Domes- tic Medicine; I believe there is such a work.” “Yes,”” was the reply, ‘he is the same individual.’? ‘The shaking of had been kept up without a mo- ment’s interruption, and it was thought that the Presi- dential arms must’ certainly be tired. The Mayor sug- gested that he could shut off the stream (as the Croton water is shut off, somebody said), if he chose. But Mr. |.Lincoln said, ‘No; let them come on, and I will shake hands with tll twelve o'clock, and after that hour I will be satisfied if they will pass me without shaking hands ‘Then the flow continued to pour on. ‘ Not 20 fast, gentlemen, net so fast,” had to be repeated many times by the Mayor and the Policemen, Comptroller Haws passed in com with ex-Governor Clark, whom he introduced to President. Mr. Lin coin Kindly thanked him for the visit, and the Comptrol: Jer and ex-Governor were carried along with the crowd. One tall fellow with rather short whiskers, as he passed Mr. Lincoln, was heard to say, “Well, he looks like me.” “T did not lock at him,” remarked Olid Abe, ‘but [ take it that he is @ very hatdsome man,” at which there was sled by the Mayor, Magistrate was getting warm, 80, asi yy the Mayor, he took of his overcoat, ahd resumed the shaking of hands with additional vigor. Directly behind @ fat man waddling along with di ty and a spare man, with spectacles on and a ghastly countenance, came a tall lank fellow, who said, in a familiar way and “Friend Abrabam, how ¢o you do; wife and family?’ This fraternal the sigoal for great laughter, Lincoln himself heartily joined. tumultuous crowd in the corriders, every member of which wanted to be admitted before everybody else, was distinctly heard inside, so that the President elect was constrained to obeerve, ‘'] suppose there is a great jam outside.’ ‘Yes,’’ replied His Honor, ‘they will keep you here all day if you stay;” to which Mr. Lincoln re- torted, with a characteristic ‘smilo, ‘+I will stay the two hours out, so as to keep up to the bargain that 1 made.” Every tall man seemed to bave a Tight, on account of his size, to say something as he passed the President elect, while any one who wore a white choker appeared to claim, as a Divine prerogative, that be should quote some appropriate verse of Scripture or offer up @ brief but Leper wip oe en passant, for the prosperity of MrgLincoln and the wisdom of his adminte- tration, Occasionally some one would affectionately whis- per something to him, and the ludicrous spectacle now and then presented by some officcseckers of rather di- minutive stature, as they reached up to put their mouths close to the Presidential ear, caused considerable more while other officeseekers, asl despondent, passed by in silence; and yet their linger ci and backward giances told that they secreuy 6a! fm their hearts, ‘Old Abe, remember me.’’ A beavy woman, more fat than fair, in company with her husband, also more fat than fair, passed at this téeay a word. bhe, possessing more brass than nateee batt, entartonk © pene Rie claims for Presidential favor. that she represented him as having been a member of the Indiana Legislature, on acoount of which she thought he should be remembered in his list of appointments by the Presifent clect. They walked arm in arm—the husband had hold of his wife's arm, and stood with trembling frame and half averted head while she spoke the few words in his behalf. After they had gain a little mdividual of official positions, but the coming crowd rudely but innocently pushed him back in their unavoidable a. ot Ale Indiana ‘etioe- secker, enti nt now, was a time among the ‘crowd, was’ seen shortly after in a perfect state of bewi s every wher pressure at for bis wife, who had tet go his arm in the moment that he seemed to have mustered st to make a little speech:—'‘As & representative of the inhabitants of Staten Island,”’ he said, ‘I give you the hearty congratulations of the people of our island’—at the same time ~ con’s hand in euch a terrific manner that the fow policemen cl rt ready, expecting that services might be calle into requisition Kony moment—‘und to assure you,”” con- tinued the Staten: gentleman, ‘that you have the heartfelt prayers our inhabitants, and their earnest that your administration may be instrumental in reunit- ing the country.” Mr. Lincoln listened attentively, smiled, shook the hand of the speaker, who gave another and a final shake, and the Staten Island gentleman passed on Whee tanperer stoppage bad blockaded the line a eo ran a the rotund indivi- y somewhat, and dual had passed, one upon another." It as the crowd had become so te pensions wie pie, N Tthh the pase with a bow. ‘No,’ "Hes we boa beter stand. 40 what wo and the shaking wae reaumed, Observing people noticed the ludicrous contrast presented by 8 dandy Buglihman and A Dead Rabbit walking side by, side, As they came up the Dead Rabbit got the best of him, and shook Mr. Lin- coln’s hand the first. Ex-Muyor Harper, as he passed, in- voked a blessing on the head of the Premdent elect. Three ladies now appeared, having gone through a tro mendous squeezing in order to reach the room, One of them was excculingly fat, puflng profoundly, and as, she parsed looked up as if Mr. Lincoln might kiss her, as she ad had such terrible experiences in ber eflorta to see him. But be rewarded her the same ns ho did the other ladies, with a gentle thake of the hand. A young man, bewildered, his body sbaking and his eyes roll’ th phrenzy, loudly exclaimed aa he passed, “Mr. President!” Every one in the room burst out into a roar of laughter, which bad the effect of bringing back his wits and restoring eomewhat his equilibrium. Anotber great rush, and on the people came, tumbling over cach other a before,‘ Not so fast, gentlemen, not fo fast,’ was repeated by the Mayor and passed round by the policemen. A little ‘gentieman, somewhat advanced in years, as he caught the band of Mr. Liocola, said, riank the Lord, I have seon another President. | hope you will live a good many years, and I hope His counsel will guide you.” This pious person was followed dy the announcement of @ gentleman from Charleston, who very cordially shook the hand of Mr. Lin Coin, Great laughter was caused by this proceeding, and some ope, unable to contain bimeelf, roared out, “0, he ie @ Sonh Carolinian.”’ The Mayo: supposed ‘that ‘the President aid not consider that out of the pale of bis © people came tumbling was again sug) that evsing, Mr. Lincoln had fore twelve o'clock, and 4 Li) PRICE TWO CENTS. jurisdiction. Mr. Lincoln repli with South Carolinians if they will shake hands with me. ‘That is nota very technical question.” In the midst of the merriment the Charlestonian had 1» jiven place to ap indignant individual, who exclaimed, “"Bloase to take good care of the Collector of , South Carolipa; he is in prison awaiting trial for treason.” ‘This request, coming directly after the cordial greeting of ones Cuetniet, Produced increased ebullitions of er. @ SoeNO was now indeed a merry one. It was five minutes to twelve o'clock. and the announcement was made tbat just as soon as the bell should strike the hour of noon the President elect would cease shaki haads, and merely bow to the people as they passed. is Btate- ment was made to the crowd by the policemen a! the doors, and then there was @ tremendous rush, for every one wanted to have he shaken the hand of ‘The crowd seomed determined to break through the squad of policemen outside, push in the door,and rush in em masse to grasp the hand of the railsplitter. But the police Kept them back, and out df the scene of ex. citement, which was now at its height, emerged another solitary woman whose apparel ly showed that she had gone through an ‘‘irre} ible conflict’? with a con- glomerated mass of “s rude people,” as she called hk al friend was having a few words with Mr. Linco, when the bell in the Par pealed forth the hour of noon. Now the shaking of must cease. The crowd were informed that Mr. would receive the citizens for another hour, but as they must simply bow—not attempt to shake is. This was an uD} it announcement to those su itious people who, in their own minds, had various virtues associated with tho shaking of the hand of a President. Some people, not willing to pass with a - bow, would manmuvre with their hands suggestively, but Mr. Lincoln would say, “They won't let me shake hands,’ and these few words addreased to an individual directly were more pleas! ie a than if be had participated in a fri shake. ‘The Veterans of the War of 1812, some in full uniform, and some simply witn badges, now made their way up in a body, headed by their’ commander, Colonel Ray- mond. The Colonel said, “I must offer to shake hands with you; we are Union men,” and Mr. Lincoln replied “Certainly, I must shake hauds with the Veterans.” And then the old men, all bearing the marks of age and the signs of service, walked ed him, some of them ehaking their heads and saying that it was the last Prosi- dent’s hand they expected to shake. Several more ladies then made their appearance, and of course they would not be permitted to pass with a simple inclination of the head and the formal ‘How d’ye do.” Mr. Lincoln in- stinctively took hold of their hands. ‘You make a dis. tinction in favor of the ladies,” observed the Mayor, “Yes; their bande don’t hurt me,” he ropes. ‘The crowd continued to pour in with Increased eager- ness and momentum. an average fifty people passed in a minute. Nearly every other one ‘umbled with his hands, expecting a shake notwithstand- ing the prohibitory announcement; but Mr. Lincoln said he was in charge of the Mayor and the committee, and repeated every few moments, ‘They wont let me shake hands.” “I’m sorry for it,” moaned a disapointed indi- vidual, All the veterans were not able to keep together before they entered the room, so that every few minutes one would make his appearance solitary and alone, and would be cordially greeted by the President. Old Captain Riell could not restrain himself from saying, “God bless you! stand by the Union and the constitution, and I will Stand by you.” Another simply ejaculated, “God bless you!” and after he had passed shouted, “Hurrah for Lincoln”? At this moment there came along a well known person from the First ward, and, ashe fooked so imploringly, the Mayor introduced “Mr. Wilson.” A smile was passed round, nobody essayed to say anything until one, bolder than the rest, amended by saying ‘Billy Wilson.” ‘The smile was now ¢xchangnd for a hearty laugh at the ex- pense of Billy, But in the meantime the pugilistic repre. sentative from the First ward had passed on and disdained to recognise the sport. Frequently a short fat man and a tail lean man would come up together, and the tall man would be followed by some boys, who generally managed to come in parties of two and three, and the marked con- trasts preeented in this way during the course of the two hours were very curious to witness. One middle aged man was 60 bold as to promise, “If you satisfy the peo: ple this time, Mr, Lincoln, you will receive the unani- mous vote of the next electoral college.” This tempt- ing offer caused much merriment among the people, and Mr. Lineoln aptly remarked, “I think when the clouds look ag dark as they do now, one term might sx Usfy any man.” ‘Turning to Mayor Wood, he said, “If you can ever get the city matters so systematized as to hold your present place with any comfort, you will have a good deal to do.” The Mayor intimated that it was a difficult matter, and the reply was, ‘But you have done a good deal to systematize them already.” ‘0 more ladies came in separately. One of them ex- hibited to Mr. Lincoln a letter, and as he was about to take it from her, she ‘held it fast, merely showing the address. She then went off perfectly satisfied. He, thinking he recognized his own handwriting, sald:—< I'suppose she was showing me a letter which she received from me.” Commander Breeze and Captains Foot and Gansevoort, from the Navy Yard, paid their respects to his Excellency, und said something about their being happy to see him at the Navy Yard. Another of the veterans caught hitn by the sprawling on al) fours, his umbrella and hat considerably in advance of him. He was picked up by xome police- jen, posting with all bis might and main, and after re- covering his balance pi led to pay his respects to the President. Right on his heels followed a woman, who was kindly received and cordially welcomed by the President. Now there entered an exceedingly tall, wiry look- ing individual, who, the moment he entered the straightening himself to the full extent of bis altitude. When he came alongside of he backs together, when Lincoln was found to have a slight advantage. Considerably crestfallen the tall man passed on, the crowd laughing at him as he went. ‘I saw that be was running a tilt with me, and was stretching him- if to make the issue with me,” said the taller Fall splitter, “and | was determined to take him down.’ Speaking on the question of altitude, he added, “I have always said on that subject that there is considerable ‘outcome’ in me.’ Along the Ope man said, ‘J must shake hands with you, because they say I look like you.” To which Mr. Lincoin replied. “1 take it that that settles that you are a good looking man.’’ It was now half-past twelve o'clock, and the noise and bustle outside continued without abatement. A bow zon a8 ho passed, returned by Mr. Lincoln with a ‘How do you do, sir?” was the usual manner of incident or humorous remark re be ious monotony. “I wish to shake hands , 1 ‘comp! 1, baveforbid me shaking hands, but! will with a perton from a foreign nation.’ This considerable laughter. A from hands with Mr. Lincoln, who whispered something in his ear, which seemed to please bim exceedingly. from the country would not be content to go without a little shaking, stating that he had come forty miles to do it. A very flerce lookiity speci- path fin gh te Dy aay c (i atr rut oudly Sah se eee mes ren tae Ps country is Yooking at you.” Next came ‘a representative of divinity, with spectacies, who ejaculated, “Lord biess you and ou firm.” A Bowery boy, when told that he must “pd shake hands with you,’ he said to one fellow, Tpat if you bad «. slater “then 1 could shake with her,” at which “None but ix feet four inches, with his boots off, calculating all the ‘‘outcome”’ that was him. Soon, a short — came along and said, “Abe, how dye do? T hope you will take care of us all.’ ‘You take care of me,’’ said he; and ‘I will do — / duty,’ replied the man. Another gentleman, of the white choker fraternity, naively asked, ‘Is the country sate?” Lincoln retorted, «hope so; you must do it,’ at which the gentleman of divinity shook his finger in an admonitory manner. ‘One o'clock had now arrived, the doors were closed and no more people admitted, Requests had been made to the of. fect that thousands outside who wished ¢» see the President elect and could not gain admittance to the Governor's room, would be highly pleased to have him appear on the balcony. In compliance with these requests, Mr. Lincoln then went out on the balcony, where he was reoted with loud cheers from the multitude below, When silenee was restored he spoke as follows:— Frirxne—I do not appear for the purpose of making « epeech. I design to make no h. I appear merely to see you and to allow you to see me—(cheers)—and I have to say to you, as I have said to audiences fre- quently on the route from my home to this place, that in the sight | suppose I have the best of the bargait (Laughter and applause. “Three cheers for Old Abe. Aseuming that you are all for the constitution, the Vnin—(loud cheers)—and the perpetual liberties of this people, I bid you farewell. (Cheers.) Mr. Lincoln then retired to the Governor's room again, and in company with Mayor Wood walked round and viewed the principal ‘wits, Then, passing out of the ceatre door, down through the vestibule and into the Park, where he bade farewell to the Mayor, Mr. Lixcoln and the memberg of his auite who were with him entered the carriages amid the cheers of the crowd, drove off to the Astor House, Among the jugidents related of Mr. Lincoln during bis ied, “1 will shake hands stay in thie city is ope which i# told by Mr. Goorgo Thompson, of the Mayor’s office. It appears tha! this gentlemaa was selected by his Honor to make any ar. ements with the President elect which his pleasure Might cictate, and, in speaking of the opera last even jog Mr. Thompson suggested that during the ball sce ie the President, if he chose to do 80, could go upon the stage in mask. “No, I thank you,” said Mr. Lincoln g¢0a humoredly, one is enough. The papers say I wear @ mask already”? AFTERNOON SCENES AT THE ASTOR HOUBE. THE RETURN PROM THE CITY HALL. As the Presidentia! party left the City Hall on their return to the Astor House, the crowd, as is usual on such occasions, began to rush and shout, run and chase, with their utmost power. The carriages were driven round to the Vesey street entrance, through which the party entered the hotel, where they arrived shortly after one o'clock P. M. The President elect was so fatigued with the hand-shaking at the City Hall that almost immodi- ately after hisarrival at his rooms he retired to rest, to the, ‘ance of many prominent politicians who bad ‘waiting for an introduction. Among the visiting ‘ty who arrived during the afternoon were Judge Peabody, Ex-Police Commissioner Stranahan, Col. Fre- mont, Gen. Nye, David Webb, Collector Schell, Bimeon Draper, George Opdyke, (Capt. Faunce; of the Harrie Lane, Shepherd Kuapp, and anumber of merchants of this city; 8. Hotaling, Hon. J. R. Briggs, Col. Hazard, Commodore Stringham, Chauncey Shaffer, who intro- duced the Speaker of the, House of Representatives of Massachusetts, &c., &c. ‘Most if not all of the foregoing ultimately succeeded in obtaining an interview with Mr. Lincoln, Col, Fremont had a strictly private interview with him. “During the morning Superintendent Kennedy intro- duced to the President a veteran from Brooklyn, Long Island, named Hon. Joshua Dewey, who had voted for George Washington and at every Presidential eiection since, including that of Lincoln. He is ninety-four years of age, and Mr, Lincoln expressed groat gratification at | the introduction. William A. White, Esq., introduced the Rev. Lyman Beecher, who was accompanied by an elderly lady, to the President elect. They wore both cordially received. Several ladies applied during the day for admigsion to visit Mr. Lincoln, but were informed by the blue.coated guardians that they could not then seehim. Ono elderly lady gaid, ‘Can't I get just one glimpse?” “No, ma’am,”” “Only one; I merely want a glimpse. Now, just do.” “Our orders are positive, ma’am;”’ and so the officer would not relent, and the lady went away without the satisfac- tion of even “one glimpse.” A little girl was very per- severing in trying to obtain a view of the new object of excitement, being on the spot as early as pine o’clock in the morning, and only leaving for a few minutes at a time during the whole day. At last her perseverance was rewarded by Mr. Lincoln having occa- sion to pass along the corridor, when she obtained a full view of him. On the table of the reception parlor was a large and bandsome nosegay of very chotce flowers, rich in color and fragrant in odor. During the whole afternoon the reception parlor was crowded with politicians, merchapts and others. Se great was the anxiety of the curious to get into this room that all kinds of ex ruses and dodges were adopted for the urpose, sometimes successfully, but more frequontly without avail. Cards were sent to any prominent person inside, or the individuals called out into the corridor; but even this kind of work did not always have eitw except the party inside was invested with full powers. The police were sometimes rather puzzled ow to act in certain cases, for one of the Corporation Committee would give orders not to admit any person upon any pretence, and in a minute or two afterwards avother member would bring two or three followers to be admitted, As the two members would perhaps be in- vested with similar powers of action, and it might be dangerous for the M. P. to refuse to obey the orders of either of them, the poor fellows would hardly know what to do, but did their best by doing nothing. During all this time where was Prince Bob? He cer- tainty did not assist his paternal relative in the onerous duties of the reception parlor, but certain frien‘is of his eaid he was engaged in company with Major Sprigg during the best part of the day in other, to him, more pleasing dutiee—namely, that of refreshing his inner man with certain liquid arrangemente. YOUNG LINCOLN DON’T CARE ABOUT BEARS. At about two o'clock P. M. the nurse and the eldet of the Lincoln juveniles, accompanind by officer Dolan of the Second precinct, visited Barnum’s Museum. The young- it Lincoln would not go. * He could see plenty of bears the country he came from, and therefore did not want to see rpum’s."’ So he was left behind, and several persons who could not get the chance of shaking Lincoln by the hand took this opportunity to shake that of his youngest son. Officer Dolan has been dubbed by his jong the ‘Grand Keeper of the Presidential ‘Dut whether the ottes will be busting ia not yet determined, THE VESTIBULE CROWDED. At the head of the main stairway the police had hard work during the whole day to keep anything like a elear seage way, for a8 every person there assembled made up their minds that Lincoln wonid pass that way some tume or other, they persisted in staying and occupying the corridor until after five o'clock P. M. THE ARRIVAL OF THE VICB PRESIDENT. At half-past five o'clock the police cleared @ portion of the main corridor so as t allow the Hon. Hannibal Ham. lin and wife an opportunity to reach their rooms without ‘annoyance a8 soon as they arrived. At ten minutes before six o'clock P. M. a carriage and four drove up to the front entrance of the Astor House and the Vice Pre- sivent alighted, but so quiet was the whole affair ef bis coming kept, that comparatively very few persons were gathered together to receive him, What fow were present made an unsuccessful attempt to got upacheer as Mr. Hamlin passed up the stairway accompanied by General Nye and Colonel E. Allen, of Boston. The following gen tlemen arrived at. the ‘hotel with ‘the Vice President:— Jobn N. Goodwin, C. W. Walton, 8. ©. Fessenden, John H. Rice, F. A. Pike, members of Congress elect from Maine; C. W. Goddard,’ late President of the Senate, Maine: Capt. Gay, U.8.N.; Gol. E. Allen, Col. E. P. King, of Boston. THE RECEPTION OF MRS. HAMLIN, Mrs. Hamlin’s carriage was driven around to the Vesey street entrance, where the lady was received by Charles A. Steteon, Jr., and Mr. Troy, and condueted to the corridor next above the street, rooms 11 and 12 being set apart for the use of the Vice President and lady. Mrs. Follansbee bas charge of the ladies of both the Presidential and Vice Fresdentnl party. ‘AS oon as an 5 mI al their tollet they were escorted to Ag reception parlor, where they were formally introduced to the President and his lady by General Superintendent Kennedy. For about an hour an informal and private Super! : President and Vice-President and their ladies. THE DINNER. At about seven o’clock—one hour later than at first or- dored—the Presidential party sat down to dinner. The dining room was as tastefully decorated as on the pre- vious day, fresh and expensive bouquets being placed in front of each guest. The table, in the centre of which were somo beautiful ornaments in eleven persons, who coneisted of the Pres! Vice President and wife, Mrs. Lincoln’s others, making in all five gentlemen and six ladies. The following is the bill of fare: — CARTE DU DINER. Huitres en coquilles cru. POTAGR. Potage Brunoise, aux @ufs pochés, 801 x, Alose farcies, braisées, sauce au vin de Champagne. riste rao Callies, f x Champignons. Cotelettes d’agnenu, aux petites pommes de terre frite, Te. a Beuw Timbale de Voiaille, la To: Arcade de Perdris, ‘asanctere. Pommes de terre, houiliies, Pommes de terre, au gratin alse. Epinarde, aux wut Petite Poi Merce tale “hie ee Celert, Laitue, H cinen. Canard de Canvas Back. Gatenvs, hla Franca Charlotte Russe, cs é chance, Sninse, H jeléean vis de . Gelée au vin de Bordeaux, Macarona, mande: N Gateaux de Lafayetie. —_ is H ; iv Glace, 3 Maison p' Aston, 20 Févri QO CC TCOE TOOL OE OE POLE DOCETEORLOLELOLE DELETE LEDEDODE THEY START FOR THE OPERA. At about eight o'clock P.M. the President and his suite, fneinding two young Jadies, left the hotel for the Academy of Music, The cortege occupied ten close car- riages. Although several persons were assembied arovnd the Vesey street entrance, the party entered the car- riages with but little expression of excitement on the part of the spectators. As some slight delay occurred, many persons then obtained a good opportunity of soving the President's face and towering form. THE CHILDREN GO TO LAURA KEENE’S. ‘The two jnvenile Lincoln’s, aecompanied by their nurse end officer Doland, paid a visit to Laura Keene's theatre inst evening, leaving the hotel at about eight o'clock. he young gentiemen seemed very anxions to ‘‘be off” cog before the nurse was ready 10 go, the youngest con- \ipually informing her that ‘i would be all over before (hey got there; 60 make haste,’ THE OPERATIC OVATION. ENTEUSIASTIC DEMONSTRATION TO THE PRESIDENT ELECT. ‘The visit of the Hon. Abraham Lincoln, the President elect, to the Irving place Opera House last evening, was the signal for an overtlowing assemby of the fashionable and wealthy citizens of the Metropolis in this popular place of public amusement, The upper galleries in which the gods And demi-gods do mostly love to congregate were not remarkable for a redundancy of numbers, though the attendance of the poorer lovers of the opera, was, on the whole, very respectable. The intrinsic at- tractions of Verdi’s “ Ballo in Meschera’’ are in them selves powerful enough to draw a crowd on all occasions; but the additional fact that the man on whom the eye of the whole civilized world are now fixed, and on whom the hopes of this nation rest, could not fail greatly to imorease the general attendance. Several of the private boxes were crowded, and the congregation of female beauty and fashion could scarcely be excelled in any other city. The outside arrangements for the reception of the Pre_ sidential party on their arrival at the Academy were of ‘he simplest and most democratic kind. Beyond two strong detachments of police appointed to secure orde- and prevent accidents, no preparations were officially made for the reception. There was a fine force of police, commanded by officers Quick and McPherson, of the Twenty-sixth preeinct, detailed to prevent confusion among the hackmen and drivers of public vehicles, and though with all the activity -and attention that these officers could bestow on their commission, en- tire confusion could not be avoided, still supreme order was maintained among the chiotic mass of car- riages and not @ single accident occurred. A force of twenty men, under Captain Cameron and Sergeants M’Oor- Hell and Twaddle, attended to the preservation of order around and about the entrance of the Opers House, and it is right t7 say that both officers and men discharged their onerous duties to the full satisfaction of the entire public. ‘The arrival of Mr. Lincolu’s carriage at a little after eight o’clock was f00on made known by the cheers and plaudits of the large crowd assembled in front of the building. In due course the vehicle was driven up to the landing place, and the President elect, with the ladies and gentlemen of his party, alighted, whilo the people cheered him lustily. Without further ado, he ascended the steps and was soon lost to the view of the outside spectators, who gave him a final and parting salutation as his shadow disappeared. Mr. Lincoln did not enter his box until some timo after the conclusion of the overture to the opera, and after the sivgers’ had appeared on the stage. The place him and his friends was the first private box from the stage on the second tier and on the right side of the house. His entrrnce was made very quietly, and sans ceremonie and it was not until he bad been for along time seated that any one in the body of the building know of bis ar- rival. ‘But as he was expeoted people naturally began to look about for him, and as those who knew the location of his box were perpetually pointing in that direction, there goon began to be a generul movement of eyes to that point, At last, the plain black cravat, the neat shirt collar turned over the neckcloth, the incipient whiskers, and good bnmored face, that sat 80 dewmurely in the box, left no doubt on the public mind that Abraham Lincoln, of Illinois, was among them. All this time the opera singers were doing their best; the chorus chaps were expanding their upwearied lungs to the ex tent of their second class abilities; and thé trumpeters and druemers were blowing and thumping their lnstru- ments in the most approved style. But it was no go at this particular moment. The President elect was the superior attraction for the time being, and the folks had to be content with little or uo attention from their usnally. very attentive auditors. Presently the first nct was brought to a close, and the scene descended amid a perfect storm of enthusiasm, ba of which was no doubt intended for the players and the other biggest half for Honest Old Abe.” ‘The intelligence that Mr, Lincoln was in the honse now began to spread from box to box, and from the lower auditorium to the gallery above, with something like electric speed. Shout after shout of applause arose from the lower boxes and seats, and were taken up and re- echced from those above, "The demonstration of respect and reverence to the chosen President of America at length became so general and enthusiastic that no person present could be said to be a non-participant in it, At first, the object of this genuine outburst of patriotic feeling fat as still as when he first entered, only occa- siovally bowing from his seat; butas this did not seem to gatisfy the clamorous audience he presently arose to his feet, and his tall sinewy form was then seen in ita full proportion, towering above his friends in the box a full head and shoulders, like Saul among his brethren. With his rising the applause and en- thusiasm seemed to have reached its apogee; waved their hat and caps over their heads; the ladies did the same with their handkerchiefs; while the whole noe, without exception, joined warmly in the ap- . The ecene was most animated and exciting, ani one ties most ‘ova- dent elect could not have had so excellent an opportunity of seeing assembled together under other circumstances — and in consideration of the wealth, intelligence and re- spectability of those who were so met together —the de- monstration becomes doubly valuable, and will not, as it should not, be readily forgotten by Mr. Lincolo. On resuming his eeat the wise broke out again and again, from all parts of house, though not so enthusiastically as in the first ‘instance; before the last echoes of the final burst had subsided, the ecene went up and discovered the whole force of the Opera troupe on the stage with their anrolled musical “scrolls, preparing to enchant their audience with the de- servedly beloved national hymn, ‘The Star Spang! ner.” With one of the artistic flourishes of magic baton the harmonious tones of the accompaniment trembled through the orchestral instruments and re- sounded through the house. The audience were inclined to applaud even this firet faint foreshadowing of the an- thom’s stirring strains; but they were prevented by the advance of Miss Hinkley to the front, who, turning to Mr. Lincoln’s box, and yet partially facing the audience, ir, sweet voice first stanza of the popular hymn. The chorus was taken up ina most spirited manner by the whole troupe, and it seemed to want very little to induce every one in the audience to join. Just before tho firet veree was begun there were cries of “All up,” to which the andience unanimously j and all with common consent rose to their feet. ‘Mr. Lincoln and his attendants were about the last to rige, and not long after be was on his feet the chorus was concinded amid rapturous applause, as the wores were echoed :-— ‘The star spangled banner—oh! long may it wave Over the land of the free and the home of the brave. A eplendid Union American banner, biazing full glory of thirty- stars, proecentam with an effect that words oan scarcely wy The enthusiasm and excitement of the people un! ‘and hed Ban- Muzio’s Ts j : : i i E i af Mr. Tancotn did pot remain longer than to the close of formance, He left immediately after, and did not return, though every one thought he . His ture was effected as quietly as his entrance; and thus ends the operatic demonatra- tion in honor of Abraham Lincoln. - ‘THE “TRENADE AT MIDNIGHT. After Mr. Lincoln had left the opera at the Academy of Music, before the performance was concluded, he drove back to the Astor House, and immediately repaired to his apartments, being very much fatigued by the varied experiences of the day. He arrived so quietly, not having been expected so soon, that no crowd had col- lected at the hotel, and very fow was aware that ho had returned at all. The announcement having been made that the Wide Awake Republican Central Committee would march to the Astor House at half past eleven o'clock, for the pur- ose of serenading the President and Vice Presi- ent elect. A crowd began to collect long before leven, and when the serenade commenced, an hour later, several thousands had assembled. Fifty policemen, under command of Captain Jamieson, ssisted by Sergeants Horrigan and Brevoort, were de- ailed to keep the crowd in order, while twenty deteo- ‘ives were distributed among them for the purpew of ooking after the pickpockete. At half-past elevea the po- ice cleared the area tp front of the hotel, leaving a hollow square to be occupied by the musicians, Shortly after. wards cart drove up with the music stauds, were placed in the square, The ing La we aertval ot redeem: y crowd whistling various patriotic airs, and beating time with their feet. They kept in the best of bumor and instantly siezed on whatever might ppen to afford them amusement for a moment. Precisely at 120’clock the musicians arrived on the ground and commenced rs, we ‘stands and notes, amid the humorous sallies midnight assemblage. They numbered forty eight pieces of the Seventh Fegtmont National G band, under the leadership Qra- fulla, and took up a position to tho sidewalk direotly in front of the hotel. In addition t» the gas lamps, four large wile awake lanterns contribut. ed to furmish them light on the oecasion, ‘A sort of an imprompte procession had been formed ot the Republican Headquarters in Broadway, com. posed of the full body of the Wide Awake Central Committor amd delegations from the Union, fOSNUINUKD ON KIGHTH P, 208. |