The New York Herald Newspaper, December 27, 1861, Page 1

WHOLE NO. 9239. NEW YORK, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1861. NEWS FROM WASHINGTON. A TROPHY FROM THE DRANESVILLE FIGHT, Adjutant MeKane, of tho Pennsylvania Sixtn, which cid gallant service in the Dranesviile fight, brought to the city to-day a fine Maynard rifle, captured from one of the rebels, It was in perfect order, and loaded when taken. ; The Cabinet in Council on the eas ot the guns abandoned by the enemy were found Mason-Slidell Affair. Proposed Call on the President for the Papers Relative to the Case. War Speech of Senator Hale, of New Hampshire. Capture of Rebel Agents on the Coast of Texas. Government Stables ard Horses De- stroyed by Fire. Zarge Force of the Rebels Near Dranesville, &e., &e., &e, Wasumatox, Dec. 26, 1861. TH MASON-SLIPELL AFFAIR. ‘The Trent affhir was the subject of a long and very §rave Cabinet consultation to-day. The utmost secresy ‘has been enjoined in reference to the proceedings, which are known only to those who were present, ‘We have reason to believe, however, that the affair is regarded as by far the most serious and embarrassing of ail the questions with which the administration has been sailed upon to deal. The extent of the demand of Great Britain is as yet only a matter of conjecturo. It has been divulged to none except these who have a right to know it. It is known that the President was opposed to the surrender of the rebel prisoners under any circumstances, bat he is willing to do whatever be shall be convinced is necessary for the public good. ‘An effort bas unquestionably beon made by the Secretary of State to obtain, as an equivalent for the acquiescence ‘of this government to the demands of England, a definite Pledge of the non-interference of the British in our do- mestic war. The hesitation about giving this pledge is regarded as indicative of the determination of England not to bind herself in this respect, but to make the Trent affair the pretext for taking @ second step in offensive action towards this government, In recognizing the revolted States as belli” gerents, she has already taken the first step towards placing herself in a hostile attitude, Even the recog ition of thoir independence would not necessarily bea ‘cause for war, but we would be justifiable in treating it as one. If she hagdetermined to take this course, any com. Pliance whatever on our part with her present demand ‘would not arrest the execution of that determination. It is believed here that the present position of England ig attributable to the despatches which went to England im the Trent, tendering to Great Britain the protectorate over the seceded States, and offering to make them a British colonial dependence. Tt was stated to-night, by one of the highest officers of the government, who is one of the few who are perfectly * informed of all the proceedings in the case, that in a very few days the whole matter would be made public without ‘ny reservatiop. The negotiations will not, however, be closed until after the arrival of General Scott with ad- vices from France. He is expected in the morning. In the meantime, the report prevalent in New York, that Mason and Slidell haa gone on the Europa, takes the President by surprise. He had never heard of it, There is no foundation for the rumor. CONDITION OF GEN. M’CLELLAN’S HEALTH. Genera) McClellan’s health is much improved. He has deen attending closely to business to-day, and will bo in ghe saddle again on Monday next. ATTACK ON GENERAL M’CALL’S PICKETS. Information received to-day from General McCall’s divi- ston is to the effect that early this morning our pickets, extending toward Dranesville, were driven in at the latter place. The rebel forces, it is believed, have been largely reinforced. Hence increased watchfulness on the part of our troops has become necossary. FALSE ALARM IN THE CAMPS, A heavy cannonading was heard to-day across the Po- tomac. It was thought by some that another Dranesville fight was in progress, and an unusual excitement pre- vailed in the divisions of the army nearest to the firing. Allwere disappointed on learning that the firing pro- ceeded from cannonading practice by the batteries of General Porter’s division. "STRONG FORCE OF REBELS NEAR DRANRSVILLE. A scouting party of cavalry was sent out to-day in the @irection of Dranesville. They report about thirteen thousand rebel troops in that vicinity. OPERATIONS OF THE BLOCKADING SQUADRON ON THE TEXAN COAST. Despatches from Commander Ridgeley ,cruising off the coast of Texas, have also been received, from which it appears that early in December he captured the English schooner Victoria, of seventy-two tons, from Pojnt Isa- bel, with a clearance from the rebel authorities, having ran the blockade. The vessel was sent to Key West. Seven of those on beard took the oath of allegiance, and six were detained as enemies of the United States, ‘The schooner Eugenia Smith, on the 9th, was also over- hauled but was permitted to depart, no contrabandarticles being found on beard, The persons of two rebel agents, however, were secured, namely:—Thomas 8. Rodgers, of Texas, and Mr. Zacharie, of New Orleans. The papers found clearly implicate them as rebel agents, seeking to make their way to Mexico, thence to other parts. GOVERNMENT STABLES AND ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-FIVE HORSES DESTROYED BY FIRE. At seven o’clock this evening a fire broke out in the government stables, near tho Observatory, and eleven sheds, in which several hundred horses were quartered, were destreyed. All the horses in two of the sheds were ‘burned. The fire spread with great rapidity, and the hdrses were cut loose as fast as possible and allowed to escape. A wild stampede took place, and several specta tors were run over by the affrighted animals. A drove of them ran down Pennsylvania avenue frantically, and only etopped when completely exhausted. Several were killed or rendered useless by their mad efforts to escape. Some that had been partially burned were shot to put an end to their tortures. The number of horses lost is about one hundred and seventy-five. The stables contained over six hundred horses. Of a ‘ain of one hundred and two horses, belonging to a Massachusetts regiment, only eleven were, it is said, saved. It is supposed the conflagration resulted from carelessness. So quickly were the flames communicated to the various racks filled with hay, that the horses in the stalls were nearly all at the same time suffocated. The scone was sickening and offensive. The remainde, Of the horses not immediately near the fire were either Jooned or broke their fastenings and wildly ran in differ- ent directions, but were pursued by squads df cavalry with a view to their capture. A largo quantity of har- tess and a house occupied as a dwelling by teamsters, wore also destroyed. The inefficieucy of the Washington Fire Depart. ment was again illustrated. A single New York fre company would have subdued the flames before three of the sheds were burned. ‘ ‘This large loss affords an additional argument for the employment of steam fire engines, which has long been ‘contemplated GENERAL SICKLES ON A MILITARY MISSION. Geveral Sickles has gone to New York on some impor- tant military mission. On dit, that: he is to fit out an ex” Pedition for the Southern coast. APPAIRS ON THE LOWER POTOMAC. In the absence of Captain Eastman, Master A. P. Fosters ,of the Stepping Stones, commands the Yankee, Ho ren- dered good service as commander of the Resolute, All is quiet down the river. A schooner arrived to-day from below. She-run the gauntlet of the rebel batteries, and baa four shots through her mainsail. No other da- mage was done. There has been no other arrival for two days, THE PROVOST MARSHAL’S RAID UPON THE GROGSHOPS, ‘Tho Provost Marsha) of this city is making strenuous efforts to break up the barroom lounging on the part of officers, He has issued an imperative order that bar- rooms of every grade shall be closed at half-past nine o'clock in the evening, and gives notice that tho proprie- tors of all such establishments as are not conducted with due observance of this order, without equivocation or subterfuge, shall bo arrested and held in custody, without respect of persona, CURISTMAS ¥ETE OF THE NINTH MASSACHUSETTS REGIMENT. A grand Christmas party was given lest night by the officers of the Ninth Massachusetts regiment. Colonel Case presided at the tables, spread ina large pavilion. Brigadicr General Morell and staff; Colonel Woodbury, of tho Fourth Michigan regiment; Colonel Black, of the Twenty-second Pennsylvania, and Colonel McQuade, of the Fourteenth New York, accompauied by members of their staffs, were among the guests. A number of ladies wore also present. Speeches were made by Colonel Cass, General ‘Morell, Co- Jone! Black, formerly Governor of Nebraska Territory ,and others. Music and dancing closed the entertainment, which was kept up to a late hour. CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION ON BOARD THE VESSELS OF THE POTOMAC FLOTILLA. Christmas was appropriately celebrated on board the Yankte, and other vessels of the Potomac flotilla. THE PRESIDENTIAL EXCURSION ON BOARD THE PEN- SACOLA. The excursion on the Pengacola is now fixed for to-mor- row, but it is hardly probable that the President will find time to participate in it, NO MORE HORSES WANTED FOR THE ARMY. The Secretary of War has directed that no more horses be bought until all now belonging to the govern- ment are in active service. Quartermaster General Meigs having been especially charged to carry this order into effect, the attention of all Quartermasters of the regular “and volunteer army is called to the subject. NO ADDITIONAL CAVALRY REGIMENTS TO BE OR- GANIZED, ‘The War Department bas issued an order that no addi- tional cavalry regiments be organized. Those that have not been mustered into service will necessarily be trans ferred to some other arm of the military service. IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PAYMASTERS, ‘The Acting Assistant Paymasters recently appointed by the Navy Department, will be interested to learn that unless they file their bonds and report for duty immedi- ately, their appointment will be revoked. NOMINATION OF A MARSHAL FOR NORTH CAROLINA, ‘The President has nominated to the Senate Charles H. Foster, of North Carolina, to be Marshal for that district, MOVEMENTS OF HON. ALFRED ELY, Bon. Alfred Ely is still in Baltimore, His brother, who is here, received a despatch from him to-night, announc- ing that he would be in Washington to-morrow. AFFAIRS ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. The Flag Officer of the Pacific squadron, writing from Panama, December 13, says:—All remains quiet at Pana- ma and throughout the Isthmus. The recent recognition of the Mosquera government by the authorities of Panama seems to have tranquillized the public mind and prodnced a general feeling of security not experienced for many years past, THIRTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS. FIRST SESSION. Senate. Wasuinaron, Dec. 26, 1861. ADJOURNMENT FOR THE HOLIDAYS. On motion of Mr. Haus, (rep.) of N. H., it was agreed that when the Senate adjourn to-day it be to meet cn Monday next, and when the Senate meet on that day it adjourn to next Thursday. HOMBOPATHIC PRACTICE IN TRE ARMY. Mr. Grimas, (rep.) of Jowa, presented a petition from citizens of Iowa for the introductiqgof the homeopathic system practice in the army. UNCONDITIONAL EMANCIPATION OF SLAVES. Messrs, SUMNER, (rep.) of Mags.,and Trcmuvis, (rep.) of Ill., presented petitions for the emancipation of slaves under the war power. ARMORY AT ROCK ISLAND. Several petitions were presented for the location of a national armory at Rock Island. ‘THE MASON-SLIDRLL AFFAIR—SPRECH OF MR. HALE. Mr. Hate offered a resolution that the President be re- quested, if not incompatible with public interest, to transmit copies of all despatches which have passed be- tween this government and Great Britain relative to the seizure of Messrs. Mason and Slidell; said despatches to be communicated either in open or executive session as may be deemed proper. Mr. Sumner objected. Mr. Hate said that be had understood from the public press,and those who held more jntimate relations with the administration than himself—though the absence of this intimacy was not his fault,as he was willing to bo as cofidential as any body—that for three or four days past the Cabinet has had under consideration a ‘ition fraught with more evil to the country than anything that had yet marked its history, and that was the surrender of Messrs. Mason and Slideli to Great Britain. By doing this we would yieldall we had gained in the war of the Revolution, and be humiliated to a second rate Power. No man would go farther than timself for peace; but he would not submit to national disgrace and dishonor to obtain snch a peace. He would favor the arbitration of another Power; but if a demand has been made by Great Britain for the surrender of Messrs. Mason and Slidell, war should be declared against her instanter. He would make all honorable concessions for peace; but a peace involving such a surrender would be infinitely worse than war. His friend from Indiana (Mr. Lane) had remarked this morning that his State had now sixty thousand men in the field, and wonld double, that number to maintain the national honor. If this Senate should go home after such a surrender and hu- miliation, it would be subject to the scorn and indignation of the country. He regarded the arrogant demand or Eng- land ag @ pretext tor war. She was determined to humiliate us first and fight us afterwards. Let our cities and vil- lages be pillaged and burned, but Jet our national honor ‘be preserved. Francis the First said, after the battle of Pavia, that all was lost but honor. He (Mr. Hale) would pray thi this administration might not sacrifice our national honor. Thousands would yet come to the field to defend it. if this sur- render was made the administration would meet with such a fire in the rear that it would be hurled from power. If we hada war with England it wonld be for the sme cause that had sent one king tothe block and another homeless and houseless over the world, and one that would appeal to men wherever the English language was spoken. He believed, too, that if Napoleon bad one desire more than another it was to wipe out the stain upon the French arms at Waterloo, A}! over Canada there were thousands of Irishmen who would rush to arms to sustain sucha cause @s ours. Our principles were our great strength, and, if war must come, he would gay let it come, and thauk God that we are the instruments in his hands to work out His own cause. Mr. ScmNER, (rep.) of Mass.,#aid that the Senator (Mr. Hale).had made @ war speech, or what might be termed such. For himeeif he (Mr. Sumner) had rather con- sider this grave and important*question when it was pre- sented in a practical form. The Senator has treated the whole matter as 4 bypothesis. He (Mr. Hale) had said that Great Britain had made an arrogant demand of this government. How did the Senator know this or the country? He (Mr. Sumner) did not know it. The Senator had saia he would favor an arbitration. How did he know but what the administration had considered that. The Senator was too swift in his conclusions. His (Mr, Sumner’s) own belief was thatthe mattor would be ami- cably adjusted, It was in safe hands, and it would be better for the Senate to reserve themselves for facts and not act upon a hypothetical case. ‘The resolution of Mr. Hale was laid over under this le. ra CONFISCATION OF PROPERTY OF REBELS. Mr. Davis gave notice that he should introduce a bill confiscating every species of property of all persons who have bad any connection with the Southern rebellion, either in a civil, military or nayal capacity, PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENTS IN FECRORD STATES, Mr. Hartay, (rep.) of iowa, introduced a bill for estab lishing provisional governments in ail the seceded Statos. Referred. THE FUGITIVE SLAVE LAW. Mr. Howns; (opp.) of Wis., introduced a bill amending the Fugitive Slave act. Referred, ‘Adjourned till Monday, of Representatives. Wasnincron, Dec. 26, 1861. ‘The journal of Tuesday was read. * No business was transacted in the House to-day ‘quorum not being present. Adjourned til) Monday. GENERAL SCOTT'S RETURN. His Reception in this City~What Are His Reasons for Retur ‘The steamship Arago arrived from Havre at half-past five o'clock yesterday afternoon, having on board Lieutenant General Winfleld Seott, who has again returned to his na- tive shore, after a short absence. As scon as (he Arago was telegraphed to be coming up the bay Port Surveyor Andrews immediately proceeded to meet heron board of the stoamboat Tiger, that gentleman being anxious to be the first to welcome back to hia native land tho soldier, Patriotand statesman, After boarding the Arago, Sur- veyor Andrews was cordially greeted by the General, when a spirited and cheerful conversation took place. General Scott expressed the hope, and also the oonvic- tion, that a speody and honorable end would soon be made to the present difficulties bet-veen England and the United States. When the steamship arrived at pier 37 North river it ‘was quite dark; but, notwithstanding, there was quite a large crowd of porsons assembled, anxious to bestow a cordial greeting on their returning favorite; neither did the bitter cold prevent them from waiting upon the pior for the space of two or three hours. A good deal of speculaticn was indulged in, by those persons, as to the probable reason for the sudden return of General Scott, and the most ridiculous and pi@posterous ideas put for- ward regarding tho same. The generality were, of course, of the opinion that the gailant old soldier camo in the capacity of a bearer of important despatches from the French Emperor to our government; the former offering himself as a mediator between England and our country in the Mason and Slidell difficulty. Others agreed that he came back for the purpose of again oftering his services to the government in a minor capacity in this her hour of deepest trouble. Whatever the cause may be for return, the former conclusion seems, at present, to be the moro correct one. When tho Arago was safely ensconced at her pier Gen. Scott was the first to come ashore, supported by M. Hoyt, his son-in-law, and Surveyor Andrews. By the light of the lanterns which were suspended from the gangway the crowd at once recognized the General, when cheer upon cheer of welcome burst forth, to which he respond- od by taking off his hat repeatedly. ‘God bless you, General,” was uttered from every side, and the polico had sufficient work in order to keep off the people from overpowering him with their attentions. The General was then conducted to a carriage, when, in company with his son-in-law, he was driven to the Brevoort House without ostentation of any sort. It is thought that he will remain at the Brevoort Touse for two or three days before leaving for Washington. Last night he despatched a letter to Secretary Seward in- forming bin of bis arrival, MILITARY MOVEMENTS IN NEW YORK, ARRIVAL OF THE SIXTH NEW HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT. The Sixth New Hampshire regiment, Colonel Neison Converse commanding, arrived in this city yosterday from Keene, N. H.,and mustered 1,023 men. They do- parted for the reat of war late in the evening. The fol- Jowing are the leading officers:— Staff Of jonel, Nelson Converse; Lieutenant Colone!, Simon G. Griffin; Major, Chartes Scott; Adjutant, Phin. P. Bixby; Quartermaster, Alonzo Nate; Commis- sary, Eli Wentworth; Sufgeon, Wm. A. Tracy; Assistant Surgeon, Sherman Cooper; Chaplain, Robert Stimson (Universalist); Sergeant Major. Timothy K. Ames; Quar- termaster Sergeant, Albert Kimball; Commissary Ser- geant, John H. Varnly; Hospital Steward, James H. Noyes. dine pany A, Captain Joreph Clark; Com- pony B, Cartain Samuel P, adams; Company C, . H. Bierson; Company D, Captain Samuel D.’ Quarles; Company EF, Captain 0. G. Bort; Company F, Captain Geo! €. Starkweil; Company G, Captain John W. Putnam: Com: pany H, Captain John B. Sanders; Company I, Captain Robert L. Ela; Company K, Captain E. H. Converse. THE FIRST REGIMENT OF MASSACHUSETTS CAVALRY. ‘The First battalion of the First regiment of Massachu- setts cavalry, numbering about 400 men, arrived in New York yesterday forenoon em route for the seat of war. All the men were well mounted and their horses were well caparisoned. Thoy are stout, hardy looking lads, and sit their war steeds gracefully and nobly. About two o'clock they formed in marching order at the foot of Twenty- ninth street, and proceeded through Fourth avenue, the Bowery, Broadway und Cortlandt strect to ’ the Jersey ’ City ferry, wore they took three boats consecutively to “convey them to the railroad cars. A special train was provided for their accorams- dation to carry them to Philadelphia, from whence they proceed to Annapolis, The following is a full list of the officers:— Staff Offcers.—Colonel, Robert Williams, of Virginia; Lieutenant Colonel, Horace Binney, of West Roxbury Major, Greely S. Cortis, of Boston; Quartermaster, cius W. Rnight, of Boston; Surgeon, James Holland, Westfield; Assistant Surgeon, Oscar C. Dewolf, of Ches- ter, Battalion Quartermasters, Edward A. Brackett, of Winchester, and Milton K. Bowen, of Dorchester. Line (ficers.—Coinpany A, Captain Marcus A. Moore, of Waltham; Compeny B, Captain Henry L. Higginson, of Boston; Company C, Captain Atherton H. Stephens,’ of Cambridge; Company PD, Captain Wm. Gibbs, of Wal- tham; Company E, Captain Lucius Redmond: Company F, Captain Oren 8. Shaw, of Boston; Company G, Captain Samuel F. Chamberlain, of Cambridge; Company H, Cap- tain David B. Keith, of Boston; Company I, Captain Cas- per Crownenshield, of Roston, Another battalion of this regiment is expected to ar- rive to-day. NINTH REGIMENT NEW YORK STATE MI- LITIA. Lieutenant Joe. DP. Wickham, of Company G, reached the city yesterday moruing, on recruiting ‘service. The regiment is encamped about four miles from Frederick City, Md. The weather has been very cold but all tho tents are flocred and furnished with a stove, which makes it very comfortable. Sibley tents will be issued ‘to the regiment on the Ist of January. ‘The health of the men bas been much improved since the camp was re- moved from Muddy Branch. All the sick are at the Frederick hogpital, and are well cared for, The ladies of the city pay them every attention and furnish them with many little comforts. ‘An election was held in Company Ton the 2ist instant. Second Lieutenant Classen pro- moted to Firet Lieutenancy, and Second Sergeant Allien elected Second Lieutenant. Surgeon Nordcrist has been very low with typhoid fever, but is rapidly improving. About forty good men will be recruited to fill up the ranks. Congressman bi f Released by the Rebels. (From the Richmond liespateh , Dec. 23.] ‘The profosed exchange of Mr. Faulkner for Mr. Ely having been effected, the latter has been re- leased from bis impriscnment in this city, and will leave for Norfolk this morning on his’ way North. He has paid somewhat dearly for his curiogity in coming out to see the great Lyttle of July 21, apd his entertainment at the *‘rebel capital” was of a different character from that anticipated by the jolly Con- gressmen who left Washington on that auspicious occa- sion. His experience, however, may prove beneficial to him and to others of his class.’ His demeanor while in prison has been such as to win the good opinion of those who haye seen him, though such 4 privilege has never been sought by the writer of this paragraph, and we have consequently no personal knowledge of the individual, How he will deport himself in the hails of Lincoln's Con- gress hereafter is a matter in respect to which we feal no interest, nor do we see how ii can affoct the cause of the South either one way or the other. ARRIVAL OF HON. A. ELY IN BALTIMORE. Batarone, Dec. 26, 1961. Hon. Alfred Ely, member of Congress from New York, arrived here in the steamer from Fortress Monroe this morning, en route for Washington, having been exchanged aga prisoner of war for the late French Minister, Mr: Faulkner. he First Day’s Skating at Central Park this Seaso ‘There was skating on the lower lake yesterday, at Fifty-ninth street and Sixth avenue. This season the Commissioners are more successful than on previous Years, only being twoor three days after the ice on the different ponds in tho neigtiberhood. This short differ~ ence of time is fully made up to the public when five thousand persons can skate at once without accident of any kind through the day. The ice was in very good condition, with the exception of a few holes. At those places the danger signs were conspicuous!y placed, and if any were ‘unfortunate enough to return home with wet feet they were themselves responsible, every pre- caution being taken by the Park officials to prevent such @n unpleasant casualty. The upper lake was but partially frozen, and there is but little chance of skating at present until the weather is more severe. About twenty-five thousand people visited the Park yesterday. Should freezing continue through the night, the lower lake will ho again open for skating to-day, IMPORTANT FROM MISSOURI. RETREAT OF GENERAL PRICE, ETC. Orrervinue, Mo. , Dec. 26, 1861. Toformation, which is supposed to be reliable, has been received here of the retreat of Price southward. The day after the party General Pope sent out to Johnston county drove ip General Rains, Price withdrew. Ra'ns was driven across the river, and the next day marc! od eight miles southward with his whole force, At last accounts one division of his army was at Neo" sha, and the main army, under Price, bad juet left Ham- mondsville on its way to Warsaw. Price says his retrograde movement was in obedience to orders from the President of the Confederate States; but his men generally believe that it was in consequence of General Pope’s advance and Price's fear that a force would be thrown forward to cut off his supplies south- ward,and another force advanced in front, in which oveny his supplies would have been exhausted in a few days, and he would have been compelled to abandon his com- manding position at Osceola. Whatever the motive it is certain that the movement Was a cigadvantageous one for Price; for many of his ‘men, who for months have been expectingto march upon and rive the Union men from the State, will be. disgust- ed and will refuse to follow him out of Missouri. General Halleck’s policy of showing no mercy to law, Jess bands of maurauders and bri’ge burners, and of dealing with the utmost leniency with those who tay down their arms and return to peaceful occupations, will do much to restore peace to the State. PRIME CONDITION OF GEN. POPE'S ARMY. Orrenvitsx, Dec. 26, 1861. The troops are in good condition and anxious for a move, General Pope has received from the troops under his command numberless evidences of their appreciation of his ability. Yesterday a beautiful flag was sent to him, and [ast night he was serenaded by one of our bands, and congratulations innumerable come in on him from every qvarter. General Pope issued an order some time ago making colonels of regiments responsible for the condition, of their regimental traneportation and the good order cf their arms and equipments. This has been rigidly en- forced, and when the order was issued for our last move we wore en rowe in tbree hours, although the order came ‘at midnight. ‘The success of the movement, and the praise and coa- gratulations the troops have received had a good effect on them, and they will move forward when next ordered with still greater alacrity and with sti!) stronger assu- rances of success under General Fope’s command. MORE BRIDGE BURNING BY THE REBELS: QvINcY. III. Dec. 26, 1861. Two spans of a bridge acroas the Chariton river, on the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad, were burned by the rebels last night. ‘Trains cannot cross for some daye. MARTIAL LAW DECLARED ALONG THE MIS- SOURI LINE. Sr. Louis, Dec. 26, 1861. General Halleck has issued tho following general order:— In virtue of the authority conferred in me by the President of the United States, martial law herctofore issued jn this city will be enforced. In virtue éf autho- rity martial by declared, and will be enforced in and about aii the railroads in this State. [tis pot in- tended by this declaration to interfere witb the juris- diction iy the court which is loyal to the government of the United States, and which will aid the m)iitary autho- rities in enforcing order and punishing crimes. Commanders of posts and troops will be held responsi- ble that their commands are ready to move at amo- ment’s warning. Excuse for delay and want of prepara- tions will not hereafter be admitted. NEWS FROM FORTRESS MONROE. Fournse Moxnor, Dec. 25, ‘Via Bautimore, Dec. 26, 1861. ‘There was no good foundation for the report that a skirmish took place yesterday. The 8. R. Spaulding arrived here from Hatteras this morning. She brings no news, Hon, A. B. Bly camo down from Norforlk late this afternoon by a flag of truce. After a visit to headquar- tors he took passage for Baltimore. THE REPORTED DEPARTURE OF MASON AND SLIDELL FOR ENGLAND. . Boeron, Dec. 26, 1861. The steamship Europa stopped at Fort Warren yester- day, and it was rumored, with some appearance of truth, that Messrs, Mason and Slidell were put on board of her. Upon investigation of the rumor* it was ascertained to be incorrect, and arose from the fact of the Europa stopping there to discharge her pilot. ‘The Europa sailed at noon yesterday for Liverpooi. Poth Slidell and Mason remain in Fort Warren, waiting for something to turn up. MOVEMENTS OF COLONEL MULLIGAN. ‘Trexton, Dec. 26, 1861. The brave Colonel Mulligan, whose heroism is in every- body’s mouth, arrived in this city last night, with his family. Ho was visited by our State, military and civil authorities. * HEAVY CANNONADING NEAR GARDNER’S BAY. Srontncton, Conn. , Dec. 26,1861. All day heavy cannonading has been heard in the di- rection of Gardner's Bay. A messenger from Fisher's Istand reports a mysterious light last evening in that vi- cinity. Confiscated Rebel Vessels. TO THE EDITOR OF THE HERALD. Wastunctox, Dec. 23,1861. A bill has been smuggled into Congress by which more money is tobe wasted by that body. It is apparently an amendment to the Confiscation act passed in August last, and it provides that the vessels confiscated ax rebel property shal! be put on the same footing in the division of the proceeds as those of smugglers and fraudulent im- porters were by the act of 1799. The result of this will be that the Treasury, instead of getting the proceeds, will ouly get haif, the other half to go to the Collector, Surveyor and Naval Officer. ‘These gentlemen will get by this some hundreds of thousands of dollars, when they are already well paid, and when every cent of this money is wanted for our soldiers aud the war, What next? P,Q. United States District Court. Before Honorable Judge Betts. Dec. 26.—In consequence of the death of the Honora- ble Solomon G. Haven, partner of Hon. Judge Hall, Judge Petts opened the Court, and as there, was no business ready, 10 was adjourned till Friday Unirep States Disrrict Covrt Carexnar—(Admiralty Cases)—38 , 40, 31, 32, 45. (Jury Cases)—16, 17,2, 3, 6,8. United States Marshal's Office. MORE PRISONERS FOR FORT LAFAYETTE. J.W. Zouchami, of Now Orleans; Thomas J. Rogers, of Texas; and M. 8. Raymon, cf Mississippi, who were brought here by the steamship Baitic, having been cap- tured the Santiago de Cuba, were transmitted to Fort Lafayette. Government Transports. The schooner Wm. C. Meison, lying at pier 18 North river, has been chartered by government, and is now loading oats and hay, ‘The three-masted schooner Wm. Allen, lying at pier 10 North river, is loading provisions for Fortress Monroe. Brooxiyy ART Assocration.—The first reception of this society for the present season took place last night in the assembly room of the Academy of Music. The whole of the building, including the theatre, was lighted up for the occasion, and the attendance was large and fashionable. The collection, though it contained a good many trashy works, exhibited an improvement on that of last year. Amongst the pictures most admired were a Swiss Scene, and some Autum Studies, by the President of the society, Mr. Gignoux; several beautiful Landscapes, by Hubbard; “the First Encampment of the Seventh Regiment,” and ‘eWindsor Castle,” by Gifford; ‘a Scone on the Hudson,’s by Shattuck; a View on the Guadalquiver, by Colman; a Landscape (composition), by Kensett; a Spanish Girl (a study), by G. Hall; the “Flower Girl,” by Pope; “Olden Times,” an interior, by Edwin White: a Sea Coast Scene, by Haseltine; Fort Lafayette, by De Haas; the Pool by the Sea Side, by Wm. Hart; acouplo of Lahdscapes, by A. Wost; portrait of ex-Presidlent Fillmore, by Le Clear; a capital study of Sheep, in the style of Verboeck. hoven, by the Rev. A. A. Willett#, and a beautiful water color sketch, The Pacific,” taken from the ramparts of Panama, by C. Parsons. INTERENTING FROM EUROPE. The Niagara at Halifax and Arago at New York. The Question of War with the United States Still Agitated in Eng- land and France. GEN. SCOTT'S RETURN ON THE ARAGO, His Interview with M. Thouvenel and Re. ported Commission, with a “Momentous Message” from Napoleon. England's Fear of the Emperor's Neu- trality and a French Dread of Eng- land’s Aggrandizement at the South. John Bull Still in a Fighting Fever. The Party and Press Which Support His Cause in New York. Movements of British Troops and War Ships to North America. THE ILLNESS AND DEATH OF PRINCE ALBERT. News from India, China, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, &e., &e. &o, The steamship Niagara left Liverpool at half-past eight o’clock on the morning of the 14thgand Queenstown op the 15th, and arrived at Halifax at half-past one o'clock on Thursday afternoon, 26th instant. The Niagara was boarded off Cape Race, from whence a synopsis of hor news was sent to the press, ‘A despatch from Liverpool of the 16th instant says:— The Ningara did not get away by this morning's tide, 4s intended, owing to the delay in getting stores, &c., on board for troops. ‘The Niagara bas £20,000 in epecie, and twenty-four pas- sengers for Boston and 351 troops for Halifax. ‘The Niagara sailed at half-past seven o'clock on Thursday evening for Boston, where she will be due on Saturday morning. ‘The steamship Australasian, which left Liverpool with 1,265 troops, a fleld battery, large quantities of ammuni- tion, store, sledges, &c., for North" America, also arrived at Halifax on Thursday morning. ‘The Britieh war vessel Cadmus had arrived off "St. Johns to protect vesse’s against another Trent affair. The ship John Jay,from Hong Kong for New York, had put into Singapore leaky. ‘The ehip Coronel, from Deal for New York, had put back, . ENGLAND'S PREPARATIONS FOR WAR, THE ATTITUDE UNCHANGED. ‘The attitude of and preparations by England show no change. THE MILITARY AND NAVAL MOVEMENTS, It is estimated that about twelve thousand troops are to be sent to Canada, to be ready to take the fleld insme- diately on landing. ‘The British government continued to charter all ayail- able steamers. ‘Two batallions of the British Guards were expected to snilon the 18th inst., in the steamers Adriatic and Pa- rana, under the command of Lord F. Paulet. Orders have Been issued for the hasty manufacture of two thousand pack saddles, and a proportionate number of ambulance wagons and cars for despatch to Canada. Col. E. R. Wetherell is gazetted as chief of the staff in Canada, gnd Major Generals Prumley and David Russell are ordered to embark forthwith and join the staff. No additional orders were issued on the 13th inst, for regiments to be held in readiness, No cavalry or horse artillery will go to Canada before spring. ‘The preparations are represented as on a seale which would haveastonished people in anti-Crimean times. SIGNALIZING THE MERCHANTMEN—THE WAR RISKS. English shipowners were adupting a system for their outward bound vessels to communicate to passing English ships that thore was a prospect of war with the United States. ; ‘They had also resolved to form a society for mutual assurance against war risks, EDITORIAL “BOSH” OF THE LONDON TIMES. The Lon‘on Fimes oditorially reports the following story:— During the visit of the Princo of Wales to America Mr, Seward took advantage of an entertainment to the Prince to toll the Duke of Neweastlo he was likely to occupy a hich office—that when he did so it would become his duty to insult England, and he should insult ber accordingly. ‘The London Times accumulates evidence of a long cherished intention on tho part of Mr. Seward to do Eng- Jand an injury. In another leader on the internal affairs of civil war, the Times advises the federal government to make peace in time, before it is committed to a treble war, viz: with the Confederates, the British and its own abolitionists. THURLOW WEED DEFENDS MR. SEWARD. A despatch from Liverpool to Queenstown, of the 15t inst. states that the London Zimes publishes a letter from ‘Thurlow Weed, the main object of whi to defend the American government, and Mr. Seward in particu- lar, from alleged hostile intentions towards Eng- land. He disclaims on behalf of Mr. Seward any unfriendly feelings or intentions towards Eng- Jand, and says that the threat of insulting England which ‘Mr. Seward made to the Duke of Newcastle was mere wile talk or badinage. Mr. Weed says he believes if England’s despatch to Lord Lyons is peremptory in tone if will meet with peremptory refusal. He appeals for moderate counsels on both sides, as the only method of avoiding a collision. ‘The London Times editorially comments on Mr. Weed’s Jetter, and says be has made the cause of his client aud his country considerably worse than he found it. ‘The London 7imes also says England asks nothing from America but that she shall abstain from actual outrage, or that if itis committed that she shall make reasonable repa” ration. If she will do this it is well. If not, the alterna- tive will not come in the desired form of protracted nego- tiation. The command-in-chief of the forces in Canada will re- main in the hands of Sir W. Fenwick Williams. THE KING OF BELGIUM SPOKEN OF AS A / MEDIATOR, A tolographic despatch from Brussels, of the 12th in- stant, to the London Times, says:— ‘There is a rumor in diplomatic circles that mediation in the American conflict will be offered by King Leopold, The Secretary of the British Legation has left for Lon don. ‘The London Post says thero is no truth in the rumor, GENERAL SCOTT’S RETURN HOME. HE BEARS, IT IS SAID, MOST IMPORTANT COMMUNICA- TIONS FROM VRANCE. General Scott’s sudden return home was the theme of much speculation, It was finally reported that he had PRICE TWO CENTS: Some sort of mission from the French government to the Washington Cabinet, . ‘The Loudon Herald’s Paris correspondent says he had 8 long interview with M. Thouyenel’before his departures Tho general impression in financial circles was that ha carried outa momentous communication from the Frencle government. The Paris correspondent of the London Times says tha general belief is that General Scott has gone back with the intention of enlightening the Washington Cabinet as ta (he ideas of the French government. He is doutkless acquaint ed with the opinions of the Emperor, and. that it is not fax vorable to President Lincoln's policy. Genoral Scott wil probably conyince his countrymen that they cannot count on the moral support of France. Something is also said of his boing charged to propose the mediation of the French government, THE EXETER HALL FOLK AND THE PEACH SOCIETY. ‘The United Prayer Meeting at Exeter Hall took place om ‘the 12th instant, as apnonnced, Hon. and Rev. Paptistl Noe) and other ministers participated in the proceedings, and fervent prayers were olfered up for peace. Lordi Shaftesbury dectined to attond the meeting, stating, in his reply to an invitation to do so, that it would be inters preted by the bulk of the press and by Americans as @ cloaked rebuke of the British govornment, and favor the opinion that the country was not united in this serious question. He commended the purpose of the meating, but thought it would be better carried into effect by pri- vate and congregational means, Ata meeting of the Congregational Board resolutions were adopted deprecating hostilities, and calling for are Ditration if diplomacy fails to secure peace. THE ENGLISH ARISTOCRATS OPPOSED TO ARBITRATION. ‘The London Herald (conservative) takes strong grounds against the London News’ arguments in favor of arbitra. tion, and opposes such a settlement in toto. It says nogos Uiation cannot be listened to while Mason and Slidell are retained as prisoners, MORE HONOR TO THE MAIL AGENT OF THE: TRENT. HIS REPORT OF THE AMERICAN INSULT. Commander Williams, Royal Navy, who was in charg@ of the mails on board the Trent, was entertained at dine ner by the Royal Western Yacht Club. Ho gave an account of the affair with tho San Jacinto differing in almost every detail with the accounts pub- lished in the American journals, Ho flatly denied tha statements mado by Licutonant Fairfax, saying ¢hat he parted with him after mutual apologies in casa personal offense ha® been given on either sides As to the seizure “being unauthorized, the San Jacinta was at St. Thomas on the 16th of 17th of October, and when Commander Williams returned to Havana, om the 6th of November, ho found that the San Jacinto had been to Havana from St. Thomas; that she had coaled ‘there, and that two of her officers, passing themeelnes off a4 Southerners in their hearts, had lunched with Mr. Sid-and his family and extracted from them their intended move= ments, Misa Slidell branded one of the officers to his faca with his infamy, tolling him he had been her father’s guest not ten days before. GOVERNMENT APPROVES OF COMMANDER WILLIAMS? conpucr. Commander Williams eoncluded his speech by stating that he had received tho approbation of his governmenta by tho following letter from his immediate chief, whicht he then read amid much applause :— Sourmameron, Dec. 3, 1861. Sm—With reference to your letter of tho tts ultimo, detailing tho circumstances under which Meeers. Mason and siidell, commissioners from the so-styled Confederate States of North America to this country and Franco, with their secretaries, were forcibly taken out of the Trent, contract, steamer, on the 9th of November, in Bakiama Channel, by an armed party, of officers and men from the San Jacinto, United States steamship-of-war, J am commanded by the Lords Com missioners of Admiralty to convey to you their lordshina® approval of your conduct while acting as naval agent on, board the Trenton the occasion in question, and also of the judicious steps you subsequently took for ‘making the maiter known to Lord Lyous and Vice Admira! Mite, aud other British authorities. CHARLES PATRO, Captain of the Superintendents. A SENSIBLE HINT TO THE OFFICERS OF THE TRENT. ‘The Sheffield Foreign Affairs Committee had petitioned the government to visit its high displeasure on Captain Moir and Commander Williams, for having, in the Trent affair, violated the royal proclamation, and thereby show to America that England’s neutrality is strict ang ims partial, THE Wan QUESTION IN FRANCE. TECTION OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS OF THE EM Pine. Acircular issued by the Minister of Commerce to th mereantile bodies, says measures are to be adopted for the protection of merchant vessels in case hostilitics break out between England and the United States. PRINCE NAPOLEON'S POSITION TOWARDS THE REFELS. It was asserted that Princo Napoleon continued to argue against the recognition of tho Southern States, an@ that he was instrcmental in causing General Scott to go to Washington. CONCILIATORY MEASURES OF THE UNITED STATES MINISTER IN PARIS. The Paris correspondent of the London Post asserte that peaceful anticipation prevatied among the Americans in Paris, and says Minister Dayton and Consul Bigelow usedall their influence, combined with that of General) Scott, to inspire conciliatory counsels at Washington. He avserts that the French government desires peace between England and America. NAPOLEON AS A MEDIATOR. The game writer also, in reference to General Scott's return, says it is not impossible that France, if ask ed, may become tho mediator, and at the sama time the Jaws of neutrals may be revised, provided England, according to the wishes of the other Furopeam governments agrees to a modification of the existing code, INSTRUCTIONS TO THE FRENCH MINISTER IN WASH® INGTON. ‘The Paris correspondent of the London Globe says M. Thouyenel’s despatch to M. Mercier, at Washington, is known to have confined the federal Executive to the sim- ple dilemma, ‘(Are the Southerners belligerents or re~ bels?”? They have been flatly refused any rights in the first capacity, and on the second the right of asylum ac- quired by political refugees has been set at naught, and France must make the case of the Trent substantially her own. rr OPINIONS OF THE FRENCH PRESS. The Paris Presse says General Scott’s mission appears: to have been arranged so as to allow him time to fulfil it, before the ultimatum of England is remitted to the federak government, and perhaps to modify the nature of thie step on the part of England. ‘The Pays asserts, on the contrary, that the English ultimatum will bo of an absolute character DEATH OF PRINCE ALBERT. His Hiness and Death Caused by a Gase tro-Typhoid Fev. When the Niagara was leaving Liverpool the fines of Prince Albert assumed such alarming symptoms that the Prince of Wales was suddenly telegraphed for, and went to Windsor at two o'clock on the morning of the 14th inst! Our London despatches of the 15th instant, forwarded, to Queenstown, report :-The Prince Consort died at Wind- sor Castle, from an attack of gastric fever which assumed a typhoid character. ‘The first intimation of the illness of the Prince was hat on Tuesday, December 3, when it was stated that ha had been suffering from a feverish cold. ‘The first bulletin in regard to his condition was issued on Wednesday, December 11. It stated that the Princo was suffering from @ fever, unattended by unfavorable symptoms. On the following days bulletin announced that tha Prince had passed a quiet night, but that his symptoma had undergone little change. A bulletin of Friday, the 3 2th tostant, stated that hit symptoms had assumed @ more serious form. A bulletin issued at nine o'clock on Suturday night was more favorable: At half-past four o’clock yesterday (14th) afternoon a bulletin was issued, as follows:— «(iis Royal Bighness is in # more critical state,” From that hour his symptoms commenced to take a, ‘moet unfavorable turn, and fever of a typhoid character aaa Pree then continued to sink gradually until the [CONTINUED ON EIGHTH PAGE.]