The New York Herald Newspaper, December 27, 1861, Page 4

4 FS EM ae SS NEW YORK HERALD. JAMES¢GORDON BENNETT, EDITOR AND PROPRIETOR. OFFICE N. W. CORNER OF FULTON AND NASSAU STS. TERMS cash in advance, M it dy matt will beatthe isk of the sender. “None tut Bank bills current in New York » GE DAILY HERALD. two cent sper copy. $7 per annum. THE WEEKLY HERALD, every Saturaay, at epp9r $8 per Mix cents percopy: $i-per annurs or 8612 he Contine California Ka ouihe foe Th sm eee aon Wedneadoy, at four ceuls per cents, copy, or «Or 82 per ana. ESPUNDENCE, containing important ‘mon THE FAMILY HERALD, ewe, AT a any quarter of the world: tf wed, will be Tiheraity sant fre age vn FoRmGx Connesronnents ane Panricenimiy RequrstaD 70 SAL ALL LETTKKS AND PACK o Meee cag meaaniaian wikia veturn rejected communications. “ADVERTISEMENTS renewea every day; adi Werxty Henatp, Fawity HERAL ca ; is. JOB PRINTING executed with neatness, cheapness and de- erote Volume XXxv1. : isemetfis ine and tn the te eeeeseeeeeeseses NOs 35D AMUSEMENTS THIS EVENING. ACADEMY OF MUSIC. Irving place.—Raovt—Zauru- ‘LAKMOSTATION—SCHOOLMASTER. NIBLO'S GARDEN, Broadw: WINTER GARDEN, ‘Macte Joxe—Laisu Assunan ‘Prov, HexeMann. way.—Lakes or KILLaRNEY— AND YANKEE MODESTY. ‘WALLAGK’S THEATRE, No, 844 Broadway.—Ur at Tue ‘Httis—i0 1 Noppy’s Secret. LAURA KEENE'S THEATRE, Broadway.—Littiy Tox— Rosinson Cevsox. NEW BOWERY THEATRE, Bowery.—Porwax—Yourn Tuar Neve Saw 4 Woman—Tow Cxineus’s Loc. BOWERY THEATRE, Bowery.—Sticewey’s NatioxaL ‘Crncus. BARNUM’S AMERICAN MUSEUM, Broadway.—Day and Evening. —Onviva—Hirrororaaus, WMALB, aND OTHER CU- Miositixs. BRYANTS’ MINSTRELS, Mechanics’ Hall, 472 Broad ‘way.—UN BALLO IN MascukRa. tuyvesant Institute, No. 659 Danoxs, &c. "S_ MINSTRELS Ermiorian 8 SALOON, Broadway.—Peak Fawity Beuw MELODEON CONCERT HA ‘Boncs, Dances, Bunixsque: No. 539 Broadway.— Rigouuerra. DCANTERBURY MUSIC HALL, 585 Bro ANCES, lway.—Soxas, Mons. Ducwanvanav, GAIETIES CONCERT ROOM, 616 BroadWway.—Drawixa Roox ExtertarsMents, Baiets, PaNtomites, Farces, 4c. AMERICAN MUSIC L, 444 Broadway.—Sonas, Bau. Lets, PANTOMIMES, AC.—SCAMPENT. METROPOLITAN CONCERT HALL, 600 Broadway.— Boxes, Dances, Fances. BunLesqurs, &e. CRYSTAL PALACE CONCERT HALL, No. 45 Bowery. — Buxtksaves, Sonos, Dances, Ac.—NiuGae Uv Tue CHIMNEY. PARISTAN CABINET OF WONDERS, 563 Broadway.— Open datly from 10 A. M. U9 P.M. NATIONAL MUSIC HALL, Chathain street.—Burues- QvEs, Songs, Dances, &c. NOVELTY MUSIC HA! 16 Broadway.—1 Sonas. Dances, &e. sarge reapers maa New York, Friday, December 27, 1861. _ ————— a THE SITUATION. ‘The Cabinet at Washington had a long consulta- tion yesterday on the affair of the arrest of Mason 8nd Slidell. It was weighed seriously and grave~ Ty, and although the procecdings are necessarily withheld from the public, we have good reason to believe that the conviction has been come to that the belligerent attitude assumed by the English go- ‘vernment on this question arose from the fact that the despatches conveyed by the Trent under the eharge of Mason and Slidell, tendered to Great Britain a protectorate over the Southern rebel Btates, and, if necessary, to make them a British colonial posession. It is stated on high authority that the whole matter, so far as it has been de- veloped, will be laid before the public ina few days, without reservation, although the final deci- sion of the government will be reserved until the arrival of General Scott at Washington, which he will probably reach to-night. F Some excitement was created in Washington about noon yesterday by some heavy firing being heard across the Potomac, but it proved to be only an artillery practice of General Porter's division. A scouting party of cavalry from General McCall's division yesterday morning towards Dranesville, discovered a party of about 13,000 rebels in that vicinity, The pickets of McCall's force were consequently driven in. The rebels appear to be continually shifting their positions, probably with a view to find out the disposition of the Union army towards engaging in @ general action. “An absurd rumor was abroad yesterday that the steamship Europa called at Fort Warren on Wednesday, on her way to Europe, and that Mason and Slidell had been put on board, but it turns out that the Europa merely putin there to land her pilot. It is unnecessary, perhaps, to add that the steamer took her departure for Liverpool at noon, and that Messrs, Mason and Slidell still rem: in safe keeping at Fort Warren, and are not enjoying the privilege of a journey to Europe. Despatches were received in Washington yester- day from Commander Ridgely, of the steamer San- tiago de Cuba, now cruising off the coast of Texas, to the effect that early this month he captured the English schooner Victoria, of seventy-two tons, from Point Isabel, with @ clearance from the rebel authorities, having run the blockade. The vessel was sent to Key | West. Seven of those on board took the oath of allegiance, and six were detained as enemics of the United States. The schooner Eugenia Smith, on the 9th, was also overhauled, but was permitted to depart, no contraband articles being found on board. The persons of two rebel agents, however: were secured—namely, Thomas 8. Rodgers, of ‘Texas, and J. W. Zacharie, of New Orleans. The papers found clearly implicate them as rebel agents, seeking to make their way to Mexico, thence to other ports. These gent}emen were brought to this city yesterday by the steamer Baltic, en route for Fort Lafayette, having been put on board at Fort Taylor, Key West. From Missouri we hawe news that the rebel Seneral Price had retreated southwards after the army of General Pope had driven the rebel Rains At the latest accounts Rains had one division at Neosho, and the main Portion of the army under Price was moving from Hammondsville to Warsaw, across the river. The last programme arranged for was that he was to proceed from ia, Mo., which he would destroy, and tear up the railroad track; then he was to cross the river and render useless the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad track: after that work is accomplished he designed to go to Leave ‘nworth, burn the city and prostrate the fort; then K. City was to be sacked and | w ansas ‘id in ashes; after h he would take @ turn through Kancag and Iny waste the whole eastern section of the State A new Provost Marshal General has been ap. pointed at the headquarters of the Dopartment ‘| ror. NEW YORK HERALD, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1861. of the Missouri, in the person of Bernard G. Far- rar, The office of the Provost Marshal General is located at present in the city of St. Louis, and all local Provost Marshals of Missouri are ordered to report there at once by letter, in order to com plete the system throughout the State. The Arago arrived at this port yesterday, with Buropean journals of the 11th inst. The Niagara reached Halifax also yesterday, with telegraphic - details of the news received by the Persia, dated on the 15th inst. That portion of it—the largest by far—which relates to the situation of affairs between the United States and England, is of very great importance. General Scott returned to New York on board the Arago. His departure from Paris produced a very lively sensation in England. Previous to quit- ting the French capital the General had a lengthy interview with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, M- Thouvenel, and the Londoa journals intimate that he is the bearer of a measage ‘“‘of momentous im- portance’? from Napoleon to the Cabinet in Wash- ington. This idea was very unpalatable to the English mind, as it gave strength to an opinion then prevailing in that country to the effect that the French Emperor was more than disposed to declare a strict neutrality in case of war between the United States and Great Britain, if, indeed, he would not take sides against the Southern rebel States. The indications in Paris pointed very strongly towards a change in this direction in the policy of Napoleon. The Constitutionnel shows in a powerful article that the bonds existing between France and Ame- rica cannot “be easily broken,” that France has not ‘‘been insulted,” that she will not aid England to “crush down” the United States, and that she must “husband her strength” for her own profit. The Journal des Debats writes to prove that Eng- land secks her own aggrandizement alone by the disruption of the Union, and wants eventually to rule over the South as a free farm, and that France will be deprived of the carrying trade of the neutrals of the world should she go the with Prince Napoleon’s opinions have also, it is said, produced a great change in the mind of the Empe- So, on the whole, we find that John Bull woefully distrusts, at the same moment that he fears, his ally over the channel. An offer of mediation between England and the United States on the part of the Emperor was again spoken of. The war agitation was still at fever heat in into conflict England. England, the anti-American journals in London be- ing greatly encouraged in their cry for blood by the tone of the leading abolition journals of New York, and their report of the position of some of the moneyed classes of this city being adverse to the course of our government towards Mason and Slidell. Troops were being mustered and shipped for Canada, with shot, shells, cannons, sledges and everything requisite for a winter campaign in a Northern climate. War vessels were sti!l leav- ing forthe North American coast, of which the new frigate Emerald was the latest departure from Plymouth. The expedition agrainst Mexico was still in progress on the part of each of the tripartite allies. Meantime the excitement of our Canadian neighbors continues at a prodigious height. All the members of the curling clubs, cricket associations and snowshoe racers are The colored people also are arming in anticipation of When it is considered that the most of this class are runaway slaves, sent to the pro- vinces by underground railroad agents, it seems rather strange that they should now evince a dis. position to take up arms against their friends, and indirectly assist their former Southern masters. Twelve twenty-four pounders, and six cannon of larger calibre, arrived at the fort at Toronto on the 23d inst. Fifty more are to be distributed at Hamilton, London and St. Catharines. We publish in to-day’s paper much valuable and interesting information from late Southern news- papers. The Richmond Dispatch of the 23d inst. a full account of the late battle at Dranes- It acknowledges an inglprious defeat, but soothes itself in the assertion that the battle was fought against great odds. News from Texas of the 2d instant states that Galveston has been evacnated, and the moveable property, public and private, was being removed to Houston. rebels there, no doubt, expect an early visit from the Union naval and military forces. CONGRESS. in the Senate yesterday, Mr. Hale, of New Famp- shire, offered a resolution requesting the Presi- dent, if not incompatible with the public interests; to transmit copies of all despatches which have passed between the United States government and that of Great Britain relative to the capture of the rebel envoys—Slidell and Mason—the documents to be commanicated either in open or secret session, as may be deemed proper. Mr. Hale sup- ported his proposition in a speech of a decidedly warlike tone. Mr. Sumner, of Massachusetts, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Afirs, objected to the resolution. The subject, he said, was now in good hands, and it would be better for the Senate forming themselves into rifle companies. a war. ville. to reserve themselves for facts, and not act. upon a hypothetical ca ‘The resolution was then laid over, under the rule. Notice was given of a bill to pro: vide for the confiscation of every species of pro. perty ofall persons in rebellion against the govern. ment. Mr. Harlan introduced a bill establishing provisional governments in all the seceded States. It was referred. Among the petitions presented was one for the introduction of the homeopathic medical practice in the army; several for an armory at Rock Island, and a number for the emancipation of slaves by the military power. The Senate ad journed ti Monday. No business was transacted in the House of Re. yesterday, no quorum being present The House stands adjourned till Monday. MISCELLANEOUS NEWS. The Niag: from Liverpool on the Mth, and Queenstown the 15th instant, reached Halifax yes- terday, on her way to Boston. The Arago, from Cowes Roads on the 12th instant, arrived at this port yesterday, with Buropean journals of that day. These arrivals complete the details of the telegraphic reports of the Arago and Persia when off Cape Race. Cotton closed flat in Liverpool on the Mth in- stant, but the rates wore not allered. Breadstuffs remained quiet and steady. Consola closed in Vondon on the Mth instant at 910% a 90% for The* | od The full report of the sickness and death of | The Trent Question—A Picasant Sensa- | likely to settle down upon either Hulburt, of Prince Albert is affecting. He was taken ill with @ “feverish cold” on the 3d of December. This attack alternated from mild to severe and vice ‘versa, to the afternoon of the ldth, when the case assumed the character of typhoid fever. The Prince gradually declined in strength until eleven o’clock the same night, when he died tranquilly, surrounded by the Queen and the other members of the royal family, Prussia still continued the preparations for the organization of her navy. Later news had been received in England from India, China, Japan, Australia gnd New Zealand, of which a telegraphic summary appears in the Henaup this morning. By the arrival of the United States transport Baltic we have very interesting intelligence from Fort Pickens, Key West and Havana, Our cor- respondent at Key West sends us some additions) particulars concerning the affair at Pensacola, to- gether with copies of some rebel correspondence’ It will be also seen that two rebel commissioners have been taken from under the British flag by a United States vessel-of-war. These gentlemen have arrived as prisoners on the Baltic. By the arrival of the schooner Prince Alfred we have dates from Nassau, N. P., to the Lith inst., for which we are indebted to Captain John J. Wells. Tho Prince Alfred reports that a United States gunboat arrived at Nassau on the morning of the llth. Prince Alfred paid a visit to the Bahamas in the British war steamer St. George, arriving there on the 6th inst., and leaving again on the 7th. The celebrations on the occasion were grand and enthusiastic. Spealing of the arrest of Mason and Slidell, the Bahama Herald says:—“‘By the end of this week the news will have reached | England. Such an insult, we think, Brother Jonathan will find will not be allowed to pass un- noticed; but we suppose he will, as usual, endea- | vor, by a smooth apology, to wipe it out; for we hardly think, with al his boasts, and elate as he may be with his reeent success, he would deem it prudent to measure his strength with that of England.” Hon. Alfred Ely, representative in Congress from the Twenty-ninth district of this State, who was taken prisoner by the rebels at Bull run on the 21st of July, and since confined in Richmond, has been released from prison in exchange for Charles James Faulkner, and left for home on the 23d inst, General Rosecrans will soon make an advance movement from Romney, Va., and will probably not stop until he connects with General! Banks’ division on the Potomac. The rebels will flee before bim and take refuge in Winchester. The First Kansas cavalry have taken one hun- dred ‘‘contrabands’’ from rebels in Missouri, and sent them to Leavenworth, Kansas, A pedler of secession envelopes, named J. R. Hawley, was arrested in Cincinnati cn the 22d inst., by order of Secretary Seward, and is en route for Fort Lafayette. ‘Thirty of the counties of Kentucky are in posses- sion of the rebels, and cighty are loyal. Apreliminary meeting of officers of volunteer regiments and others interested in regard to our prisoners in the hands of the rebels was held on Christmas Day, at 422 Broome street, for the pur- pose of taking into consideration the means neces: sary to relieve the sufferings of those now in South- ern prisons, A committee of five was appointed with instructions,to appeal to the citizens for aid, All persons wishing to alleviate the enfferings of the Union prisoners will give them practical relief by forwarding blankets and clothing of all kinds to 422 Broome street, where the committee will re- ceive and transmit them to the imprisoned soldiers. In the Board of Aldermen last evening the re- port of the Committee on Markets on the purchase of the Fort Gansevoort property was read. They resommend that the property be purchased for the sum of about $410,000, being the price for which it was offered to the Corporation in 1954, with in- terest since that time, and other expenses now tion Spotled—Another Tremt Affair in the Gulf of Mexico. A very lively and pleasant sensation was created in this city yeaterday by a telegraphic despatch from Boston, stating that the British mail steamer Europa, en route from that port for England, had touched at Fort Warren on Christmas Day, and that it was believed she had gone off with the rebel ambassadors, Mason and Slidell. This news, too, was generally be- lieved; but, instead of exciting any expressions of popular disappointment or patriotic wrath, it was instantly accepted as a matter for public congratulation. By some it was supposed that our Secretary of State, Mr. Seward, under the instructions of the President, had quietly stolen march upon Lord Lyons, and that this was one of the beat jokes that “Honest Abe Lincoln’ had ever put into practice. It was contended that this denouement would instantly change this dreadful affair of tho Trent intoa broad farce, and that the laugh on both sides of the Atlantic would be at the expense of John Bull, asat the awful labors of the trembling moun- tain in the delivery of a ridiculous mouse. But this pleasant sensation was soon.spoiled by the wet blanket of Another telegraphic de spatch from Boston announcing that the Europa had touched at Fort Warren to discharge a pilot. Only this, and nothing more. Accordingly we are constrained to fall back upon this mysterious secretivencss which hides the movements of Lord Lyons and Mr. Seward in this matter from the public eye. Has Lord Lyens put in his ultimatum? Has he announc- ed to Mr. Seward that it is coming? Has he said anything at all to him on the subject? We cannot answer. We suspect, however, that his lordship is working up his case, collecting pre- cedents, collating authorities, decisions and points of law to support the reclamations which he is instructed to demand. He has already discovered that in our Secretary of State he has no neophyte to deal with upon matters of inter” national law, belligerent rights, neutral rights, and the rights and wrongs of an insurrectionary combination calling itself a nationality. There- fore, to plant his requisitions upon a plausible foundation, Lord Lyons must make them appear consistent, proper and right before the impar- tial judgment of the civilized world. Hence, we conclude, the impenetrable mystery which envelopes this affair of the Trent at Wasl:ington- Meantime we have received the intelligence of just such another affair in the Gulf of Mexico. The United States gunboat Santiago de Cuba, as we are informed, in the early part of the present month, overhauled a vessel bound from Matamoros to Havana, under English colors: called the Eugenia Smith, and took from her two passengers, a Mr. Zacharie, of New Orleans, and a Mr. Rodgers (now in Fort Lafayette), emis- sarics or agents of the Jeff. Davis government, and then permitted the offending vessel to pro- ceed on her voyage. We presume that the cap- tain of the United States gunboat had no doubt of the nationality of the Eugenia Smith; for otherwise he would have made a prize of her. Here, then, we have another | Mason and Slidell affair; but, as the belligerent and neutral rights involved are amply em- braced in the case of the Trent, the only effect of this additional case will be to expedite a comprehensive scttlement. It is said that when the news was first com. municated to President Lincoln of the capture of Mason and Slidell, he promptly expressed St. Lawrence; Ogden, of Yates, or Stetson, of Clinton, either of whom is beyond sus- picton of any taint or connection with the lobby. But, inasmuch as there are some eleven days before the assembling of the lawmakers, there may be a complete change in the pro- gramme before then, and Raymond will once more become a prominent candidate. There is, however, to be a reorganization of the lobby, and a new leader to be chosen; and from present appearances there is but little doubt that Greeley will be the chosen one, and the recognized chief. Hence we can safely say to the public that his prospects for the future are encouraging, and there are some hopes that he will make up for past losses, But as to Raymond we are not quite so sanguine, and regret to see that his stock is on the decline; for he really stands in need of the position; and we trust that Greeley will, now that his own success is cer- tain, roll up his sleeves and go to work zeal- ously for the “ Little Villain.” Thus far he has only given him a passive support; has contented himself by simply telling his friends in con- | fidence that Raymond was the best candidate named for the office of Speaker, and was his | first choice. Now this passive support is not just the thing in these trying times, and it is but just that Greeley should work as zealously for Raymond as he has been accustomed to hereto- fore for his special candidates. Besides, if Ray- mond is defeated for Speaker by such men as Ogden or Stetson, Greeley’s profits as chief of the third house will be very much diminished, if not virtually destroyed. Under these cir- | cumstances it is but just that Greeley should do all that lies within his power to secure the election of Raymond to the position of Speaker» on the principle of helping others to help him- self. We trust that this new phase of the contest will not in the least discourage the “Little Vil- lain;” for the tide may yet change in his favor and carry him swimmingly through. The move. ment for the third man may play itself out, as several other projects have already. But in the meantime let him call upon his friends in the Gansevoort and Washington market jobs, and in fact urge upon Grecley’s friends, the mana. gers of the Broadway Railroad project, to all unite and make a determined effort to elect him Speaker, and we have but little doubt that it can bedone. Here lie the hope and strength of Raymond, and if they put their shoulders to the wheel his election may yet be made a sure thing. The English Press Upon America. If there is an institution in the world which claims to be a model of propriety and deport. ment it is the English press. It is, par excel- lence, the British Turveydrop; and most admira. bly it generally sustains the character. Its ordinary issues are so aii that very few people ever think of reading them; and dulness, ac- cording to English notions, is synonymous with respectability. Besides this, the British press never loses an opportunity to remind the public that it is the model, and lectures, in a heavy, stupid way, every newspaper that attempts to be lively and vivacious. By this dulness, by these lectures, and by maintaining its anony- mous character and making a mystery about its editors, the English press has managed to main- tain a reputation which it never deserved, ahd will never enjoy again. Ore by one the different countries with which amounting to $659,150. After an ineffectual effort { the opinion that if demanded by England it | ygland became complicated have been en- ataremonstrance by Alderman Dayton, who pro- nounced it one of the most shameless and disgrace- ful joba that ever characterized this country, the resolutien for the purchase of the property by the. city was adopted. Alderman Dayton essayed to offer a resolution in the shape of a protest, but did hot succeed. A communication was sent from would be a difficult matter to justify a refusal to deliver them up. At all events, the admin- istration need not feel any embarrassment in coming to the decision thus foreshadowed asa measure of peace. The public opinion of our loyal States will gracefully yield to this resti- lightened in regard to the true character of this respectable cheat. Our turn has just come. We are now discovering what other nations have known long before, that the British press is the meanest, falsest and most despicable of the many fine old English humbugs. . Its scholarly Mayor Wood, together with a secession flag which | ttion for the rake of peace with the great | airs and graces have all vanished. It has be- he had received from Major General Dix, and which had been captured in Virginia by the Fifth regiment of New York Volunteers (Duryee’s Western Powers of Europe. Besides, although our loyal people have experienced a high de- gree of satisfaction in the visitation of some come the mere trumpet of the mob and the tool of shabby politicians. Has become so? It has always been so; only, as before it gave all Zouaves), under his command. The flag was dis- | punishment to those arch conspirators, Mason | its harsh words to other people and recerved its played before the Board, and then sent to the Councilmen, ‘ The Board of Councilmen were in session last evening. An ordinance was proposed by Fire Marshal Baker, proposing to prohibit the use of camphene, burning fluid and uncovered candles on vesrels while in port, which was referred to the Committee on Ordinances, A resolution request- and Slidell, for their treasonable offences and designs, we have gained little else by their cap- ture. The principal diplomat of their party, Madame Slidell—a charming lady, of very su- perior political knowledge and experience— has, doubtless, ere this, unfolded the despatches and the instructions of Mason and Slidell before soft sawder for us, we Americans have just dis- covered the fact. It is Jingle exposed. Itis Pecksniff found out. It is Mr. Turveydrop dis- covered to be part knave and part fool. Every once in a while we have had a hint of its true character, gs we saw it doing a dirty trick here or a meanness there; but now the mask is taken ing the Comptroller to inform the Board as to | some one in rapport with the goveyment of | oi entirely, and we find that the great god of whether the Board of Supervisors have complied with the provisions of the act under which the land was taken, and, if so, to report the value that had been set upon that portion of the City Hall Park taken by them. The Board refused to concur with the Aldermen in making the World a Corporation paper, but laid the paper on the table. An effort will.be made to rush the resolution through before the close of the year. The Board concurred with the Aldermen in tlte adoption of a vote of thanks to Major General Dix for his patriotic services. A resolution was con- curred in appropriating $500 each to the Presi- dents of both boards for segyicgs ag Health Com- missioners. A large number of routine papers were acted upor, among them the report of the special committee of the Aldermen on a market site, witich was referred. The Board adjourned to mect on Saturday evening. The foundatfor stone of the new Court House ‘fil Louis Napoleon. Indeed, we are advised from Paris that M. Thouvenel was in possession of the official papers of Mason and Slidell; and if this he so we may say that the object of their mission ias been virtually accomplished, and that, accordingly, we have no further use for Mason and Stidell. That the French government is apprised of the contents of the despatches in question, and that they involve something like the sale of our revolted States to England and France, includ- ing cheap cotton and free trade, we are inclined to believe, from the recent otherwise remarka- ble manifestations of an active sympathy on the part of the French government for the cause of Jeff. Davis and his confederates. It seems that France has been pushing England to make the | most of this affair of the rent, and has been in- the English press, which so many people have long worshipped, is nothing more than a mere chattering monkey. after all. Certain of our American contemporaries, which have always had a great respect for the opinions of the Eng- lish papers, and which hive even gone so far as to imitate them in style and typognaphy, must feel very much grieved at the discovery. The Heraup is glad to say that it has always been the most prominent object of the attacks of the English press, simply because it has always understood, exposed and ridiculed this great British institution. Has the English press ever rebuked American journals for using coarse and vulgar language? Read the extracts which we republish from our English files, and mark what admirable taste is displayed in the choice of words and phrases Progress of erection was laid P8terday tn the Park | timating, in a patronizing way, the propriety of | there. A common scold, furious with passion by Mayor Wood, in the presence of numerous judges, lawyers and others. Eloquent and appro- priate addresses were delivered by the Mayor, Chief Justice Clerke and Mr. Stipervisor Stewart. The architect and engineer hope to finish the build- ing within a year from the present date, which, from its size and convenience, will afford ample accommodation for the judiciary, members of the legal profession and the public. Skating was indulged in yesterday by Many per- sons on the ponds around the Central Park, at Wil- liamsburg and at Brooklyn. Some few Persons took advantage of the ice on the lower pond of the Central Park near Fifty-ninth street; but, as we have received no official returns of the number of visiters, we presume it was not a formal opening of the Park skating season. William B. Moore, the officer who succeeded in obtaining the confession of young Jefferds of the murder of Mathews and Walton, and who caused raising our Southern blockade, ‘and recognizing the Davis confederation, Low arg we to account for this, except upon thie basis of the cheap cot” ton and free trade embraced in the mission and in the despatches of Mason and Slidell? Ac- cordingly, if these propositions are before the French government, and if Hunter and Breck- inridge have gone out to tate the places of Ma- sen and Slidell, what possible advantage is to be gained by the retention of these two last named rebel ambassadors, against the demands of England, seconded by France? The point of honor involved turns upott & legal technicality; and this may be waived fot the present, in view of the suppression of this rebellion. Nay, if our revolted’ States have been offered by Davis to England and France for less than half price, we must allow no quib- his conviction, was yesterday appointed a detect- | ble or pretext to give encouragement to this ive, and detailed to the detective office. ‘The cotton market was somewhat irreguiar yesterday, and the margin between the viows of buyers and sollers was rathor wider, Tho stock was so limited that prices, fluctuated, between the extreme demands of holders and the wants of purchasers. The sales embraced about 400 bales, in small lots, mostly on the basis of 36¢. a 87c. for middling uplands. Good middling and higher grades were scarce and nominal, and, if on the markot,arould command full prices, ‘The flour market was heavy and dull, and for some grades of State and Wost- orn prices fell off about Se. per bbI., while sales wero light. Wheat was heavy and inactive, and vales quit limited, thoush there was no mat change in prices. Corn wae heavy and rathor le sof mixed at 62c. a Tork was steady, ay old and now moss, and at 312 4 814 ¢ do., and at $8 50 a 30 fom, with sales of 650 hhds, ¢ In freights r were toa Suir ox: with Crom store and a w pe was quicta were rather beayy, while gy temptation in England or France until we shall have reduced it to a mockery and a farce, inthe vigorous suppression of this desperate Southern rebellion. Tus Nexr Lecisiarure anp THR Logsy.— The events of the last few days seem to have worked great changes in the prospects of sone of the aspirants for Speaker of the next House of Assembly at Albany. For some cause or other Raymond’s stock has been on the decline fyr two or three days, and it is said that ex- al | Speaker Alvord and his friends have taken new courage from this fact, and are now sanguine of and inspired by bad gin, could use no worse billingsgate than our English contemporaries, Has the English press ever professed any regard for this nation, and spoken of Washington in roa tori? honeyed pod oes shat how says of us, and how it speaks of the Father of his Country. Remember, too, how the clegutit and learned Russell declared that the name of Hamilton was never heard of outside these States. Has | the English press ever virtuously lectured its American rivals because they were controlled by politicians? Pray, what controls the Eng- lish press now—as ever—but the agitation raised by one party to get power, and the coun- ter agitation excited by the Palmerstonians to Keep power? Has ihe English. press ever ad- vist us to be moderate in tone and unpreju- dicedNin debate? Observe how moderately and mildly the English press speaks of this country now, and wih what a perfect absence of all bias, prejudice and passion it calmly discusses the technicalities of international law involved in the seizure o.€ Mason and Slidell! John Bull has Yong since given the lie to hig pretensions, and, instead of the bluff, hearty, honest old buffer e represents himeelf, is re- garded, the world o Ver, a8 a mean, sneaking, contemptible blusteroW, brave towards the weak, but cringing to 1) te strong. The English press is John Buill’s fit €xponent. It reflects him to a shade, and we « ‘an imagine it saying, with ancient Pistol, 1 kiss his dirty shoo, and from Wy heart strings success. But in this we are of the opinion that they the time comes;, for, as far as we can judge of the feeling, this new 1 ‘ment is a rally around some new or third meu, and will be iM find themselves sadly mistaken when | Love the lovely h When this count wos st) ong the English press praised it and proudly « ‘aimed that we were of the old stoc that | our greatness Now that udded splendor to Hngland’s glo TY ON Cot dy Virgin’ e ay he ei i ry recom if, nc eRsaXDo Sin—T eof fe fag, which was found Contented in'n wood, wich & Humber of hich tn tr neneemeeninaisihisieeitisienete we are supposed to be weak, how very changed the tone and the opinion. It is the old, old story over again, however. What man was ever #0 abused by the English press as Louis Napo- leon? What man was ever so praised as Napoleon. when he could write Emperor before his name, and could make himself feared as well as hated? There is no parallel in the history of the press to the emall-beery virulence displayed to- wards this country by the English press except its attacks upon Napoleon and France. This storm, like that, may blow over; but it will leave the same old debt of contumely and abuse to be repaid and avenged by the United States hereafter as that which France cherishes up, patiently awaiting her time for settlement. - Meanwhile, for moderation, instruction and impartiality, commend us to the English press. It is not often that the contrast between precept and practice is so strong as in this case, and we should all profit by the lesson it teaches. Invormation Wantep.—We are decidedly anx- ious to have information about a party of per- haps very respectable, but certainly very silly and unintelligent gentlemen, who were passen- gers upon the steamship City of Washington, on the 19th inst., and who affix their signatures to a series of resolutions published in the Times, after this fashion:— Joha H. Tobitt, ©. ¥. Swan, M.D., ‘Thos. H. Van Tassoll, W. H. Walmaloy, B, B. Daly, ; G. W. Pitoher, F. i Jobn B. Lowe, Francis Whiteley. These nine individuals have been bothering their brains about newspapers, of which they are as ignorant as of the Chaldaic, and have been indulging in all sorts of loose and absurd statements about the Heratp. - Now we have not the honor of the personal acquaintance of these people; we have never even heard their honorable names. Walmsley is unfamiliar to us, Van Tassell is unknown, and we have never had the benefit of the medical knowledge of Swan, M. D. Who in the world are they? Naturally we are the reverse of inquisitive ; but when folks presume to meddle with our business we consider a little curiosity in regard to them quite justifiable. Who are these per” sons, then? What is their genealogy? What countries were blessed in giving them birth? What is their business, their occupations or their private fortunes? Do they smoke, drink or chew? Are their habits moral and their callings respectable? Are they family men or crusty old bachelors? Do they shave or wear beards? Who makes their boots and gets up their linen? Where do they reside, or have they no stated habitations? Are they realities or myths? Can they read and write? We are very anxious about them, and have a right to all the particulars, since they obtrude their noses into our business. Is there anybody who knows anything about them? If so, let that anybody send us word, that we may be en- lightened in regard to these fellows, who, like Dogberry, write themselves down donkeys, on _ board the City of Washington. BOARD OF ALDERMEN The Purchase of the Fort Gansevoort Property—A Secession Flag and Com- munication from the Mayor, é&c. ‘This Board mot last evening, Alderman Freer in the chair, ew THE FORT GANSBVOORT PROPERTY. Aremonstrance, signed by Messrs. C. V. 8. Roosevelt, A.'T. Stewart, King and other wealthy citizens, against the purchase of the Fort Gansevoort ptoperty, was pre- sented by Alderman Dayton, and referrod to the Com- mittoe on Markets. Apetition, signed by Cornelius V. S. Roosovelt and others, praying that the city will take measures to recover the property in question, was referred to the same committee. Mr. Roosevelt sets forth a portion of the opinion of Judge James, and adds that he is advised and believes that an action by tho city, as suggested by the Court, would not be embarrassed by the objections raised in his action (that a private citizen could not sue), and that im such @ proceeding the facts showing fraud and collusion may be fully alleged. Mr. Roosevelt says that he never had any personal or pecuniary interest in opposing the sale in question other than his interest as taxpayer or creditor aforesaid, and he belioves that he rap the interests and feelings of thy communitys With whom it is the univeral opivion that nO Compromise can be made in this matter without a sacrifice of the legal rights, as well as the honor and dignity of the city. He therefore sug- gests to the consideration of the Board, as the title to the property actually remains in the city, that such proceedings may be instituted as are deemed advisable to rocover posstesion and make the samo available for city purposes. Alderman Boour subsequently moved to take from the table the report of the Committee on Markets on the Fort Gansevoort property for a public market. Alderman Daytox—I wish to state that an approach had been made to me by James B. Taylor, who is either the owner or agent of this property. 5 Alderman Boore rose, and, interrupting Alderman Day- ton, said that the present motion was to take the paper from the table, and the time for Alderman Dayton’s ex- planation or for debate had not yet arrived. The Cua (Alderman Freer) directed the vote to be taken on Alderman Boole’s motion, and ralod Alderman Dayton out of order. ‘The report of the commitee was then read. ‘Alderman Fromext moved that the report be laid on the table. Lost by a vM@te of 11 to €. Alderman DaytoX moved to postpone tho consideration of the question until the first wack in January next. ‘The Crair ruled the motion out of order. Alderman Dayton then moved to postpone the matter for one week. ‘This was also ruled out Prosident Gxver (on the floor) moved the previous ques- tion, which was carried. , . Alterman Dayrox, in exp‘aining his vote, said that this was one of the most shameloss ad disgraceful jobs that ever characterized this country, and he voted in tho negative. ;. dorman Froeyt was procecding to explain his voto, when he was called to a point of order by Alderman Cor- uel!l, He then voted in the negative. ‘The resolution for the purchase of the property at the sum of $059,150 was ,adopted by the following vote:— ‘Ayg:—Aldermon Smith, Honry, Prady, Tacmey, Chipp, Cornel!, Freer, Boole, Alien, Pla t, Farley and Genet, Nays—Aldermen Barry, Bagloy, Russell, Nay‘on, Fro- ment, Alderman Davros then m§6®@t that the rules be sus- pended, in order that he might presefit some resolutions on the matter. This was oppused and lost, and his reso- lutions were not presented. A resolution was presented appropriating $7,700 to com- pensate the Fighth regiment for their indebtedness in making arrangements for the seat of war. Lost for want of a constitutional vote, and was then laid over. ‘A SECESSION FLAG CAPCCRRD IN VIRGINIA BY TAR FIFTH REGI- MENT OF NEW YORK VOLUNTEER: The following communication, accom: an: sion flag, which was dis ber, was received from the Mayor:— Maron's Orricr, New York, Dec. 26, 1861, ‘To vax Honoranie TAR Comm — GENTERMER—T have rereived @ con Genergl Dix, a copy of which is anne: ecosnion fiaz, captured in i New York Volunteers Inand, “in compliance with the desire of Major General Dix, {tbecomes my pleasing duty to transmit this trophy o” 8 New York regiment to the appropriate custody of the munt- cipal authorities of the cf which this gallant corps Le- longs. | New York will pre: a proof of the courage of tion to the cause of the Union. picions token, and as an earnest of the restor@ion of praca yy a seces- rel on the floor of the cham- cation from Major OM PANY & ‘th regiment of ee's Zouaves), under his com- this relic with pious care, ae ons, and their patriotic devo- Let us receive it as an aus- And the trinmph of that constitution which is the only eafe- he tre ‘and happiness of our counts By resommend that the. Commun Covtnell in flag, pass resolutions con ting the regiment of 3 York Zouaves for their gallant spirtty and thanking General Dix for his kindly remembranc Heapguanrens, Bativorr, en . Mayor of the city of 'N Hon, Fenwanpo Woop, Mayor of the dy ul, ter. the distersion id. Northampton evintien, have the pleas cles. Ti was discovered, by the Fifth regiment "ol Duiyec'a Zonaves), in Northampton, near the Fenner ere eae gounty from Accornas, aud’way presented fing edo me, feel that Iam making h more app ptable to the txeelgat Fraime x jent servant bea JOHN A. DIX, Major General, er some routine business the Board adjvurued, to y ng. Att meet again this (Fri Hovse or Maxcy.—The fair for the benelit of the House of Mercy, bas just closed, and though well attended, the proceeds are far short of mecting the pressing wants of tho establishment, Mr. James Foster, Jt., 8 very clevor amateur prostidigitateur, on learning that the eum real- fair was not sufficient for the prosent pur- ion, gave & private hich $260 Was rased as Mr. Foster is spoken of as hipow to give an ishment, whieh ‘This is true chari- Ho charity: ror, and lives exhibition for anothar no doubt he w serving of ail praise we hia ty, an: | | | | | | :