The New York Herald Newspaper, February 14, 1862, Page 1

WHOLE NO. 9287. IMPORTANT FROM WASHINGTON Passage of the Treasury Hote Bill in the Senate. SEVEN VOTES ONLY AGAINST YH. WILL. The Legal Tender Clause Retained by a Large Majority. Progress of the House Committee on the Tax Bill. THE SECRETARY OF WAR AT His ‘POST, ae, ae, de. Wasuinaron, Feb. 13, 1862. PASSAGE OF THB TREASURY NOTE BILL BY THE SENATE. The Treasury Note bill, legal tender clause and all, passed the Senate this evening, about: eight o'clock, after ‘@ long debate. “On the motion‘ to strike out fhe legal tender clause in tbe Dill, the vote was 17 yeas to 22 nays. ‘The bill as amended was passed by,80 yeas to ¥ nays, ‘as follows:— Yeas. Anthony, of Rhode Island. ‘Howe, of Wiseonsin. Chandler, of Michigan. Lane, of Indiana. ‘Clark of New Hampshire. ‘Latham, of California. Davis, of Kentucky. McDougall, of California, Dixon, of Connecticut. ‘Morrill, of Maine. Doolittle, of Wisconsin, Pomeroy, of Kansas. Fessenden, of Maine. Foot, of Vermont. Rice, of Minnesota. Sherman, of Ohio. Foster, of Connecticut. Sumner, of Massachusetts. Grimes; of Iowa. “Men Eyck, of New Jersey. Hale, of New Hampshive. Trumbull, of Ilineis. Harlan, of Iowa. . “Wade, of Ohio. Harrie, of New York. ‘ Wilkinson, of Minnesota. Benderson, of Missouri. Wilson, of Massachusetts. Howard, ef Michigan, Wilson, of Missouri. ways. |, of Vermont. King, of New York. Cowan, of Pennsylvania, Pearce, ef Maryland. Kennedy, of Maryland. Powell, of Kentucky, Saulsbury, of Delaware. ‘The amendment madé'by the Finance Committee, pro. viding fcr the payment in coin of interest en bonds, was adopted. ‘The amendment of Mr. Simmons was also adopted, ‘Providing that for -sums of one hundred dollars ana ever, instead of the six per cent bonds, the Secretary ‘hall issue to any holders an equal amount of Treasury motes, Or coupens, or registered bonds, redeemable, at the pleasure of the United States, at any time after two * years, and bearing eight per cent interest, payable semi- -anpually. This amendment will meet with considera- ble opposition in the House, and the Senate will ber perhaps, compelied to recede from it; but there is a + determination on the part: of tne friends of the ad- ministration in both houses to put the bill through as speedily as possible. ‘The Senate having made amendments to the United States Note bill, the House will probably ceneider them to-morrow. PROGRESS OF THE TAX BILL. ‘The Tax Dill still drags its slow length along. The subd- eommittee having charge of the matter are not yet ready toreport. Their skeleton bill is to be printed by Monday, ‘They have agreed upon the rates of excise and internal tax, but have not yet fixed upon anything in reference to * the tariff. PENNSYLVANIA AND THE TAX BILL. A committee from the Pennsylvania Legisiature are here to confer with the Secretary of the ‘Treasury and the Committee of Ways and Means in reference to the adjustment of the rates and objects of taxation to be levied respectively by the federal government and the States. Their object is to avoid levying onerous taxes by both authorities on the same articles. The committee is » Composed of a delegation from the Siate Senate and House of Representatives. - SECRETARY STANTON AT HIS POST. Secretary Stanton was at his post for a portion of to Gay, but is still suffering from his recent illness. NO OFFICIAL NEWS FROM ROANOKE ISLAND OR roRT DONELSON. During ail day the official report of the capture of Roa. noke Island and Elizabeth City, and news from Fort Don. elson have been anxiously awaited, but up to a late hour to-night no despatches have been received, either at headquarters or at the War or Navy Departments. BPYECT OF THE RECENT UNION VICTORIES, News of the recent successes of the Union arms has mot caused more consternation among the rebels than among the opponents of the administration and howlers after General McClellan in Congress. The victories, following each other with such rapidity, are regarded here as eloquent im vin- dication of the course of the President and General commanding, and have taken the striekers allaback. They begin to manifest apprehen- @ions that the war will.be prosecuted with more vigor end rapidity ¢han will suit their purposes, and that it will be closed in sixty days, without the removal of the - only one obstacle which Senator Chandler says has stood in the way for four mouths, and which Congress could remove to-morrow. ‘RAVER AND LAK DEFENCES. ‘The report ofthe Select Committee on the Defences or the great Lakes and Rivers is an able and comprehensive Feview of the whole subject. The substance of the report was briefly stated in the Heraip’s Washington corres. pondence several.days ago. It is accompanied by statir- tical tables, showing the relative tonnage of American ad Canadian bottoms on the lakes, the value of our in, ternal trade, andthe character of the defences recom- mended. GENERAL M’CLELLAM AND THE SECRETARY OF WAR, Whatever speculations may be indulged in coveerning the sphere of duties of the General-in-Chief, it is certain the most cordial and friendly relations exist} between him and she Presideut and the Secretary of War. THY ARMY. Brigadier General Denver has arrived. He has been transferred from the Department of Kansas to Westecn Virginia, where he will.haye @ command under General Rosectans. REORGAMIZATION OF TRE CAVALRY FORCE. ‘The bill for, the reorgsmization of the cavairy branch of ithe army has been submitted to General Stoveman, Chief of Cavalry, and periected, withthe approhation of Gen, ‘McClellan, the Bresidemt and the Secretary of War, 1, authorises the President, a his discretion, to reduce the cavalry force to fifty regiments, by transfer or discharge from service of the sarplus. The bil will be passed, and will greatly promote the offleiency of that arm of the service. MR. SUMVER'S ROFOLUTIONARY SESOLUTIONS. Sqpator Sumner's resolutions declaruory of the rela. tions between the United States and the torfitory once occupied by certain States and now usurped by pretended governments without constitutional or legal right, offered ‘Tuesday, were laid spon the table upon his own motion, in order that they might be called up at any time for slebate, The vote on that occasion was not, therefore, 08 some persons suppose, conclusive, CAUSE OF THE BURSTING OF THR SAWYRR GUN. Capt. Bowdieh, United States Army, commissary at Newport News, has roceived a letter from that point, stating that the bursting of the Sawyer gun at Newport News recently, was owing to the fact that the shell was pet ragsmed home, A NATIONAL CEMETERY. The Howe Committee on Military Affairs have ma- bill. just, $@ piace all this Money itt she hangs ef ihe solders NEW YORK, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1862. PRICE TWO CENTS. — Mn ene tured @ bill providing for a national eemetery for soldiers im the District of Columbia. v THB CASB OV MR. WIKO?¥. v Chevalier Wikoff has been confined in the guard room ‘Spprepriated to the use of the Capitol police, underneath ‘the okt Capitol. Mr. Wikoff said to-day this was a kind of “Capitol” punishment he bad not anticipated. He has been allowed to see no one except his counsel. When asked yesterday by the Speaker what he had to say in answer to the charge of contempt, he replied, “Nothing, “except that, while hoping not to be considered wanting ‘im any respect to the Judiciary Committee or the House, the information which the committee demanded was ro- Ceived, such as it was, under a pledge of strict secresy, which he felt bound to respect.” ‘This arrest has placed the committee in an awkard predicament. It hasex- Posed the fact that they were exceeding the purposes of the resolution authorizing them to inquire into the alleged telegraphic censorship of the press,and were themselves instituting an unwarrantable inquisition. Chevalier Wikoif to-day notified the Judiciary Com. mittee that he had obtained a release from the obligation of secresy he had taken, and was ready to purge himself of contempt by answering the question he had refused to answer. Upon appearing before the committee he stated that the information in regard to the President’s Message, in regard to which he had been interrogated, was obtained from Major Watt, one of the employes at the White House. The committee have not yet reported tothe House, and the Chevalier was remanded to the custody of the Sergeant-at-Arms to await further exami- nation, ‘The investigations of the committee are not to be con- fined to the single subject of this intelligence of the con- tents of the President’s Message, published in the Hxratp in advance, but other duties of a kindred character, and actually involving something more than superior enter- prise, and affecting regular correspondents of other New York journals, are to be inquired into. There is con- siderable wincing in this respect among those whose con- sciences are not entirely clear. Mr. Lincoln to-day had an interview with the Judiciary Committee at his own request. The result of the inter- view has not been disclosed. THE TRANSPORTATION OF TROOPS OVER WESTERN RAILROADS, ‘The Seceetary of War has submitted a reply to a reso. lution of the House of Representatives in relation to payments made for the transportation of troops and mu- nitions of war over any railroad which hag been con structed in wholeor in part by government land grants. ‘The Secretary concluded with @ statement from the Messrs. Meigs, giving a list of all bills for transportation by railroads that have been acted upon by the Depart- ment. RUNNING THE POTOMAC BLOCKADE. ‘The steamer Argo arrived here from Boston this morn” ing, having rum the Potomac blockade under a full head of steam. Twelve shots were fired at ‘the Argo from the rebel batteries, some of which were very cluse. The stearaer is to run between Washington and Budd’s Ferry. THE REMAINS OF SURGEON BELL. remains of Dr. Luther V. Bell, late surgeon of Gen. Hooker’s brigade, were brought to the Navy Yard last night, and placed in the chapel where the body of Eulsworth was laid. The remains were encased in & metallic coffin, and to-day were escorted to the railroad depot by the Massachusetts Congressional delegation, Dr. Nichols, of the Washington Insane Asy- jum and their friends. Mr. Parker, Chaplain of the New Hampshire Second regiment, and Surgeon Foye, also of Hooker’s brig: will convey the ‘body of Dr. Bell to Boston, where 01s death will be lamented in public aad private circles. THE ARMY SUTLERS’ BILL. ‘The House Committee on Military Affairs decided to-day to modify the Senate bill in regard to sutlers of the army in some partiqulars.” A lien to the extent of one-sixth of the monthly pa. of soldiers is to be allowed them. The appointing power is restored, as in existing laws. OfMcers are forbidden to receive presents from sutlers, under penalties decreed by Court Martial. ‘he colonels of regi- ments and councils of administration are to have power @ dikmiss or punish as well as to appoint sutlers. THE PASSAGE OF BRITISH TROOPS THROUGH MAINE: Governor Washburne has, in accordance with a request of the Legislature of Maine, transmitted to Secretary Seward @ certitied copy of a resulve of that body declaring that the letter of the latter tothe Governor of that State, in refereiice to the passage of British troops over the svil of Maine, is enurely satisfactory to the Legislature. THE PROPOSED AGRICULTURAL DEPARTMENT. The House Committee on Agriculture have made a report, strongly recommending the establishment of g separate Department of Agriculture. SERENADE TO GEN. M’CLELLAN. Gen. McClellan was serenaded to-night, at his residence, by the band of the Second cavalry, by direction of the officers of the regiment. THIRTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS. IRS? SESSION. Wasuineton, Feb. 13, 1862. THR CHAPLAIN’S PRAYER. The Chaplain made the following prayer:— Oh, God, we come before Theé this morning to thank Thee for thé tidings borne (o us upon the Southern winds, and to hail it ign of Thy coming to fullill « nation's prayer. Yet, ol awfnl is the moment of victory itself, wrenched bi field, where now they Me, rider and horse, nd and foe, in one red burial blended.” We stand before ‘Thee with our souls full of thoughts unutterable, mingled grief and sadness, with surprise, joy, gratitude, and exultn- : We sorrow for those falien in re in anything that is done beneath kindred and friends no mre shall the #nn, and who wit meet, Yet we bless Thee for e name and deeds of every soldier who has thus taught us the s«ublimity and glory of patriot ice, and who shall live forever honored in the Thon knowest, oh, God, that we are not contendi for Just and rapine, for tyrann: land of may keep th: adth and throughout all its borde for the home of human freedom and the Christian faitt, and therefore we pray Thee give wings to our sucess, and thal every day illustrious with the shouts of triumph, while ( whole people, prostrate before Thee, shall forever utter praises. Amen. APPOINTMENT OF A JAIL WARDEN. Mr. Griuxs, (rep.) of Iowa, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, reported back the bill to appoint o Varden for the jail. NEW YORK CIRCUIT COURTS. Mr. Hannss, (rep.) of N. ¥.,from the Judiciary Com- ‘mittoe, reported back the bill to alter the circuits for the Northern district of New York. ‘THE CONSTITUONAL RIGHTS OF THE PROPLE, ‘Mr. Davis, (Union) of Ky., presented the following se- ries of resolutions: — Tat the constitution ts the fundamental law of the govern- i That the righis of the people are fixed and immutable, and cannat be abrogated by any vlher power than the constiti. tion. ‘That any attempt to abrogate and destroy the rights guaran- tead by the constitution would be iuhuman, unjust and an Outrage upon civilization, Thet there, ts uo power in the constitution to alwagate or degtroy any rights of the pe That any rights and p ges suspended by the exiatence be resumed by the people as if of war, at the end thew haut not been susp ‘That vo State, by any vote of secession, or any other act, can abrogate her rights or obligations, or the obligauons af the Untied States, er people in all their rights, ate republican government. cation of any property or of the unless for acts declared to be eri. the United States to suppress the re- word” in one hand and the “olive nd to restore the States as they were th i) righta.ai loyal citizes minal. ‘That it $8 the duty ¢ belliom; 40 carry the branch’? ix the osher, belare the war. CULTIVATION OF COTTON LANs, Mr. Foswe, (rep.) of Com e notice that he should introduce a bill for the cultivation of cotton on the lands now in possession of the United States. ANEW APLORDONTMENT OF REPRESENTATIVES, On motion of Mr. Powerit, (opp.) of Ky., the bill to fix he number of representatives in the House was taken up. The dill fixes the enmber et two hundred and thirty. nine. Mr. Tremmvnt thought it was better not to alter the number of members in the House. The number had been fixed once, and it was batter not te alter it. After further discussion the bill was postponed until to-morrow. CONFRZENCE ON THE CHUL AND DIPLOMATIC APPROPRIATION MIL. A message was received {rom the House, saying that it disagreod with the Senate's amendments to tite Civil and Miscellaneous Appropriation bill. On moton of Mr. koe, (opp.) of M4.,a conference comm itsee was appointed. TAR TREASURY NOTE MILL. {he Treasury Note bill was taken np. ‘The question was on Mr. Fessenden’s amendment to make the bondi redeemable after five years, at the plea- = of the Unrated States, which amendment wae with- wil. Mr. Cousins P) of Vt., moved to strike out that pertion ofthe DID each soakee Lhe notes a‘ legal tender for private debts.” re Wisse, (£p.) Of Minas, . ws op to the amen! aaent, and if it was adopted hesmoukt vote ageinse tlw ‘He capanteren that it would be unjust, wickedly wm | | The history of the gov and employes of the government, forcing them to take i and then not to protect it after it was im their hand people of husetts wire im favor of the bill asit stands with great unanimity, and he believed that no Dill, except a bill for taxation, would be received with so much joy as this bill, with the legal tender. He (Mr. Wilson) thought the ar, nts of the Senator from Ma\ (Mr, Fessenden) and the Senator from Vermont (Mr. Col- jamer) were rather against the issuing of the notes at all ‘than against the legal tender. If we de not make these notes legal tender, we shall hay ery curbatone ‘broker depreciating the notes, and the soldiers and sailors will be compelled to submit to all sorts of shaves by the brokers. We ought to show the country that we are determined to pritect the credit of the country and carry it safely through. The merchants generally favor the making of there notes a legal tender,and by making them so families of soldiers, when tne little pittance comes from the feld, can get full value for them. He had received a letter from nine merchants, representing forty millions ing the notes ‘a legal fer, and they say they do not know a merchant fn thecity of Bor ® not To Mr. Cottamnn, (rep.) of Vt., modified 80 as to strike out all that portion of dill which makes the notes alegal tender for debts of the United States or any kind of debts, including the amendment of bo commitiee providing that all the interest be paid in coin. Mr Surraax, (rep.) of Uhio, believed that thé necessity for making these notes a legal tend a organ of financial opinion in the country agrees that it is indispensable. Everybody, from the Secretary of the Treasury to all the ers and most of the mer- is of the country,agree that it is necessary. ‘The Chambers of Commerce of New York, Boston, Philadel. phia, Chicago and other cities agree that it is necessary. ‘We have to pay before the Ist day of July three hu dred and three millions two hundred and thirty-five thou- sand dollars, and of this sum one hundred millions are now due this day. How are we going to get this amount? ‘That is a question hardly necessary. We cannot pay our debts in coin, for there is not enough of it in cireula- tion since the banks pended. banks cannot let us have any more money, for we have already taken more than their cap in bonds. Capitalists cannot buy the bonds of the government, for they not get the coin todo so, which is the only thing t government can receive. If the bonds of the gov: ment were now thrown on the market of the world they would depréviate to sixty cents on the dollar, according to the opinion of all financiers, because there is no money to pay the bonds. Then how are we going to pay the soldiers, and the contractors who feed Re armies? The is no otier way than to give them notes which ar near money as possible. He (Mr. Sherman) contended that it was perfectly constitutional to issue these notes. ‘nment settled this question. had issued bills of credit in the war with Mexico, and in the war of 1812. Weare bound, if we pass these notes to the soldiers, to make them as secure and negotiable aswecan, We must either use a sound and safe govern- ment paper currency or use the paper money of all the banks which may spring 3, in the country. Issuing the amount of notes provided by this bill cannot inflate the currency, which will be under the cqntrol of the govern- ment. It was not one-tenth of the amount of the annual duction of the country, which was $1,900,000,000. it, a. fe should vote for this measure as @ temporary neces- sity to carry on the war. Mr. Cowan, (rep.) of Pa., referred to the constitution, aaying that ‘certain powers were ssiegares to the gov- ernment and others reserved tothe States.”’ Another provision in the constitution was that “the not emit bills of credit, coin money or lay pair- ing the obligations of contracts.” He thought that these principles were well settled. He contended that stead of preserving the government, tended to overthrow it. He was opposed to this measure because it impaired all contracts and was unconstituonal, and was abhorrent: to all his ideas of justice. The measure would disturball the rolations of debtor and creditor, and destroy all credit in the country. there was nota judge in the land, but would declare that this measure was not constitutional. He og Cowan) would take the bills of credit and go intothe market and sell them, and if they ‘were not worth more than sixty cents on the dollar he ‘would sell them for that, and act asan honest man should. He declared that this measure was a ‘Charleston’? scheme, and that 1t was abandoning the great charter of the government and the liberties of the people. It was tyranny to compel aman to take five hundred dollars from his neighbor when he ought to have a thousand. He hoped that the legal tender clause would be stricken out. Mr. Coourrie, (rep.) of Wis. regretted very much that this bill was presented befo Tax bill comesfrom the House, He feared there would be a long delay on the Tax Dill in the House, and by that time this money would be ail gone, and we would bo called upon for another hun- dred and fifty million. He believed it was the intention of the framers of the constitution not to have any paper money; but paper money does exist, and has existed so bes that we cannot now carry on the government with gold and silver. He was in favor of limiting this legal tender to debts hereafter contracted. That would ob. viate the objection of bad faith, and would regulate the existing paper currency go as to prevent as much as pos» sible depreciation. Mr. Siumone, (rep.) of R.I., said there was no doubt that the framers of the constitution intended to have a bard money currency; but bank notes were regarded as promiscs to pay, and were in existence at the very time of the Constitutional Convention, and nobody thought then that they were unconstitutional. The difficulty was that a few banks were not willing to take the: notes. He would allot thom to be funded at eight per cent. He thonght if wi would strike out the legal tender pried yy uot depr ciate the notes ourselves, with a provision to make the people glad to take them, it would go well enough. Mr. Bayano (opp.) of Del., argued at some length shat the measure was unconstitutional and also inexpedient, as the notes would be good for nothing. It was simply & forced loan from the.community. ‘The discussion was continued at some length by Messrs. Howard, Willey and McDougall. Mr. Sownmn (rep.) of Mass., referred to the early his- tory of the issue of paper money, It was issued first in this country in Massachusetts in 1702, and made avlegal tender in 1712; in Rhode Island in 1710; in Connecticut in 1709; in Pennsylvania in 17: in’ Delawate in 1730;' in Maryland in 1733: Virginia in 1756, where they were calied Tre: notes, and made # legal tender for private debts; in Carolina in 1748; in South Carolina in 1703, but were not made a legal tender till afterwards. In law, as after wards, they were called bilis of credit. Ho contended that they were considered as bills of credit by the framers of the constitution. He thought it doubtful policy te iseue notes at this time. He thought if we had authority to issue notes at allwe had the right to make thems tender. ‘The question on Mr. Collamer’s amendment to strike out the I tender, &c., was disagreed, as follows:— jessrs. Anthony, Bayard, Collamer, Cowan, Fes- Foot, Foster, Kennedy, King, Latham, Nesinith, , Powell, Saulsbury, Simmons, Thompson and Willey — " eava—Mesars. Chandler, Clark, Dayle, Dizon, Doolitle, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Howard, Howe, Lane of Ind., MeDougail, Morrill, Pomeroy, Kice, Sherman, Sumner, Tea Eyck, Wade, Wilkinson, Wilson of Mass., Wilson of Mo.—z2_ Mr. Simm offered an amendment to allow the notes to be funded two years bonds, bearing eight per cent in- terest. Adopted. Mir. Deotrtre moved to amend so as to limit the legal tender to privute debts hereafter contracted. ted. Mr. Kina, (rep.) of N. Y., offered @ substitute, that the Secretary of the Treasury be authorized to issue, in ox change for coin, Treasury notes to the amount of $150.- 000,000, payable to the bearer at the Treasury, which will be redeomable in coin at the Treasury after five Years, until 1872, when all outstanding would be re deemed, and such notes receivable for all public dues. Section 2 provides that holders of such notes may exchange the notes at the Treasury, for bonds not less than twenty years to run, bearing six per cent interest. Sec. 3. That a direct tax of $15,000,000 annually be made, and the same ix hereby pledged to the payment in coin of these notes, principal and interest, when it be- comes due. Rejected. ‘The bill was reporred to the Senate. in the committee to the first cod to, except that of Mr. Simmons, to allow the notes to be funded at eight per cent bonds, which.was amended to be 7 3-10 bonds, and adopted. Mr. Feaeeypen moved to insert an amendment provid- ing for the deposit at five per cent, which was struck out yesterday. Mesars. Pearce, Sactsncry and Powel. spoke against the bili as unconstitutional. ‘The billas amended then passed—years 90, nays 7— Messrs. Coliamer, Cowan, Kennedy, King, Pearce, Powell and Saulebury. Adjourned at half-past seven o'clock. . 13, 1862. ‘THE WESTERN RAILROADS AND THE TRANSPORTATION OF TROOTS. ‘The House proceeded to the consideration of the joint resolution reported by Mr. Holman, from the Committee | on Government Contracts, authorizing the Secregary of War to pay the Hannibal and 8t. Joseph and Pacific rail- road companies for the transportation of troops, muni- tions of war, &c., but at rates not greater than Ulose re- quired from private individuale. Congress, in granting Jands towards the construction of these roads, reserved the right to transport property or treops to the United States free of charge. Without waiving this principle, it js now proposed to compensate them for their services, on the ground that their ability has been greatly im: ired by the rebellion, aad desiruciion of their bridges, c. ‘Aftef three hours debate the resolution was passed in an amended form ‘Tee companies at be compensated according to the schedules of the of War issued July ‘ast PERSONAL MATIBES, Mr. Our, (rep.) of N. Y., tising toa question of privi- lege, anid that he was toformed this morsing that some nvnarke be*(Mr. Ulin) made yesterday, were construed by Mr. Holman, as ly offensive. This was far from his (Olin’s) intention, and he exceedingiy regretted that dis remarks should have been ro construed. ‘Mir. Horman, (opp.) of Ind., replied that he was uot in his 9.at when the gentieman spoke, ef herwise be should rly and promptly respomuded, nor hed he read the gevtloman'’s remarks, But,as the gentieran had disavowed that they were intended as offensive, aod had #0 stated in courteous terms, he (Mr. flo!men) tad poth- ing more wo ay. THE RANKROIT BILE. On motion 2! Mr. Roscoe Cove ,(tep.) Of N¥., 5,000 eopies oF the Bankrapt bill were ordered w be printed, THE. MAVAL AVPROPRIATION DBL. ‘Ths iTense res ued the consideration of the Naval Ap. charter of versels, stores, laborers aud additional steam ‘vessels having been read, Mr. Hotwan, (opp.) of Ind., meved an amendment re quiring proper oflcers of the navy to be employed in making contracts and purchasing vessels. Mr. Sxvcwiex, (rep.) of N. Y., said such duties were ‘Rot within the sphere of the naval officers. Their edu- ation unfitted them fer it. They did not understand trafficking. » Mr. Loy replied, contending that it would be better {> have the service performed by responsible agents than by irresponsible persons. = Mr. Wrckuirrx, (Union) of Ky., called attention to « ne article, stating that Gen. Zollicoffer’s re! were outrageously treated by the soldiers and citizens, who flocked to see the body, stripped of clothing, the head shaved, &c. In behalf of the Kentucky soldiers he related the facts to show that the statement was utterly false aud without a shadow of foundation. The remains were treated with ceremony and respect, which was acknowledged by the rebels themselves. Mr. Holman’s amendment was rejected. * The original proviso as agreed to is as follo hereafter in all cases where the officers of the be made available, consistently with the public service, in making contracts for the ‘ter of vessels, and the purchase of additional steam vessels, no other person or persons shall be employed; and when any other person or persons thau an officer of the navy sbali be employed, the compensation shall not exceed the sum of $5,000 for allcontracts for purchase or charter in apy one year, made under the provision of this act, and at the same rate for any other shorter time of service. Without concluding the consideration of the bill the committee rose and the House adjourned. THE VICTORY AT ROANOKE ISLAN Oar Fortress Monroe Correspondence. THE UNION VICTORY AT ROANOKE ISLAND—THE RB- CEPTION OF THE NEWS AT THE POINT—ARRIVAL OF TWO WHITE REFUGEES FROM NORFOLE—A PANIC IN NORFOLK—INFORMATION FOR PERSONS GOING SOUTH—A CELEBRATION OF THK BURNSIDE VIC- TORY—THE REBEL FOROR AY SEWALL’S POINT, ETC. Fortnges Monnor, Feb. 12, 1862. Roanoke Island bas been taken. Elizabeth City is in ashes. Our troops cecupy it, and 2,500 prisoners were captured by the victorious General Burnside. This thrilling and startling news was conmunicated to us yesterday afternoon, as the flag of truce, in charge of Captain James Millward, Jr., returned from delivering the rebel prisoners, brought here in the bark Trinity, in charge of Lieutenant Buell, of the Fourth infantry, to Craney Island. Several copies of Southern newspapers: were brought up by some passengers, and immediately @ large and excited crowd gathered at diferent places to listen to the statements of the great engagement and victory of the expedition. Although the aceounts in the rebel newspapers were meagre, and inclined to bedrawn ax mild as possible, still sufficiet facts appear to warrant me in saying that the victory was as complete aa could be de. sired, Enough to say the news of the affair, as given in the “secesh” journals, ired everybody with the greatest confidence in the prowess of the authorities to quell. the present rebellion. Never before has there been such? a truly intense demonstration of joy as on the occasion of the receipt of the Roanoke Island capture. Various stories were told as to the capture of prisoners. Some stated that we had taken 2,600, others,2,700. The Richmond Examiner gives the figures at 2,100, classify- ing O. Jennings Wise as among the killed. Thus far we have only the rebel accounts, and J think Iam not out of the way in asserting that at least one weok will elapse before the officia] report of General Burnside aud Com- dore Goldsborough is received. What! assert here, | do op official authority, and coming events will undoudiedly Dear me out in my starement. ‘A Tumor was in circulation at Norfolk that the defeat at Roanoke Island was owing to the treachery of the North Carolina troops. The work on the Merrimac was stopped eon Saturday last, aud she is now at the Navy Yard, drawing so much water. that she could not get out even if she was ready for sea. While the Express was coming on her usual trip from Newport. News a smail canoe or ‘‘dug out” was ob+ served floating about tho Reads, and on the Express nearing it it was found to contain a man who was drip- ping wet. On being taken on board he stated that he came from Norfolk, where he had been employed in the Navy Yard, and becoming disgusted with affairs in rebeldom, made good his escape. He left Norfolk on Sunday night, at eleven o'clock, and made his way to Sewall’s Potut, where he stole a canoe and trusted to for- tunefor his safety. The cance was swamped three dif- ferent times. ‘The escaped individual is a Russian by birth andeerms avery tman. Provost Marshal Davis took this man to General Woo!, to whom be gave an important statement, after which the Generalsent him to Captain Marston, of the Roanoke, commander of the feet in this harbor, for whom he had some interesting paval intelli- ce. Ateleveno’clock this morning snotherarrivalocourred also from Norfolk, This was likewise a white man, who made his escape from there, having trave led ali last night, and, not being able to find a boat, be secured a plank’ and on that “‘swam from Willoughby’ Point to the Rup Raps,” where he was taken up in an exhausted con- dition avd sent on board of the steamer Roanoke. The news he rings from Norfolk is highly important. A great onic exists there, and reports from Suitulk are hourly expected that Genoral Burnside would be there and attack the place, and then push forward on Norfolk itself. He and other persons state positively, that Go- vernor Wise, Brigadier General, was @ prisoner, and nut sick #3 stated in the Norfolk Day Beol. Mayor Gencral John F.. Wool requests me to announce to | the public, and parties desiring to go South by flag of | truce, that it is not 1a bis power to grant passes for that purpose. Those persons wishing to be transferred be- Yond our lines must have their passports duly authenti- cated by the Secretary of State. ‘This morning two ladies arrived here to go South, bat not being armed with the proper documents, the General was compelied, although reluctantly. to send them back to Baltimore, I must also draw the attention of correspondents to the fact that Jetters destined for the South must not be longer than ‘one page, and confined solely to family matters. To celebrate the gloriovs victory of the capture of Roanoke Island, Company G, Sixth Massachusetts regi- THE EVACUATION OF BOWLING GREEN. | INTERESTING FROM KEY WEST. Our Louisville Correspondence. Lovuuvuie, Ky., Feb. 10, 1862. The Backward Movement of the Rebel Troops—When it First Began—The Rebel Force Sent Against General ‘Thomas—Their Number and How Compored—Their Com- manders—The Heavy Guns of Bowling Green Sent te Columbus—The Small, Rebe Forcei Now at Bowling Green— Number of Men and Composition of Division—Genera Buell Moving—How the Kentucky Ball Appears to be Rolling, de. , de. I wroté you a day or two since, giving you the fullest particulars then at hand of a movement ef therebels from Bowling Greea. Since that date Ijheve come in possession of other information fully confirming all I have previously sent, and establishing beyond reasonable doubt that the rebels have virtually abandoned their stronghold of Bowling Green. The facts, whieh are known ing and well known veracity that their statements are at once belicved. Tadvised you of the movement of certain brigades or rebel troops under General Floyd from Bowling Green as early after the Somersct fight as the 25th of January. ‘This mevement is corroborated in every particular. I named two of the brigades on this march, and am now able to give the full organization of the army sentto oppose General Thomas’ masch upon Eastern Tehnessee by the routes which he is pursuing. It is as follows:— REBEL DEPARTMENT OF THE WEST. Senior Brigadier General, Jony B. Froy commanding, vice Major General G. B. Crittenden, under arrest. ARSE THGADR. Brigadier General com’dg. . . Simon B. Bockaxn. ‘Slag. Major Alexander Cassidy.... Assistant Adjutant General. Captain Thomas Clay Aid-de-Camp. Captain Robert Bi ... «+++ Brigade Quartermaster. Captain Geo, T. 7 . Commissary of Subsistence. ‘Third moe inf’try.Colonel Roger 8. Hansot ird Kentucky reg’t. inf’try.Colonel 5 nm. Fourth « m ue Lad * Colonel Thomas H. Hunt, Tennessee ‘al « Colonel J. B. Palmer. Brigadier General eom’dg. ... Ws. J. Hanpxs. —composed of ‘Two Arkansas reg’ts inf'try - One Mississippi “ — Tennessee ©” Colonel Matt. Martin, FOURIM BRIGADE. Brigadier General com’dg. Joun C. BRYcKINRIDGs. posed of four regimet wnat as of the rebel Ken- — tuckiens rectuited in Burnett's it, SIXTH BRIGADE. Brigadier pe girs com'dg....Jony B. Frorp, u ‘To this force of fourteen rebel regiments of infantry is to be added a detached force of cavalry and artillery, de- tailed for service with this army. It is more than proba- ble that the Fifteenth Mississippi and Fifteenth Alabama, which were in the Somerset fight, will be again gathered together and attached to this force. There two regiments may be reorganized and brought imto the service. The ‘Tennessee regiments in the fight at Mill Springs are to- tally demoralized, and can never be gotten together again. Adding the two last named regiments, the forc® recapitulated will stand as below:— Sixteen regiments of infantry, about: ‘Three squadrons of cavalry... 9,600 2 1/200 Pike -10,700 and about three batteries, or fifteen pieces of artillery. ° A powerful reason for the abandonment of the position is found in the following facts:—About the time of the reconnoissance of General Grant, less than a month since, fo the direction of Columbus, the rebel leaders caused all the heavy siege guns at Bowling Green to be shipped to that point. This was done in auticipation of an attack upon Columbus from the gunboats at Cairo, and is good proof that the vaunted strength of Columbus is not as nearly perfect as the rebels desire, In the meantime tho expodition takes another route, and, taking Fort Henry, seizes the bridge crossing the Tennessee river, and thug cuts off the line of communication between Columbus and Bowling Green. It is stated here now, and was stated a fortnight since by other parties, that the last sixty-four pounder was shipped from Bowling Green anterior to the first of the new year. The smallest of their own make of cannon are all the rebels bave on thetr dozen fortified Lills enciveling Bowling Green. Not @ gun larger than thiriy-two-pounders is mounted on their famous works, afull description of which, by the way, 1 trust to send you in a few days. 8 til avotber indication of che intention to abandon the position is noticed in the weakness of the present, force at Bowling Green. It is stated positively that the force left at Bowling Green is only about six thousand strong. ‘The following is the orgavization of the rebel army at present holding the works of that defeusive position and vaunted Western Manossas:— REBEL DEPARTMENT OF KENTUCKY. Najor General commanding. . At THIRD Acting Brig, General com’g. nesed wholly of the and another regiment from Tennessee, which is re- y without arms and with no means of Felting them. FIrTH BRUGAI B ‘igadier Gen. commanding. HixpMax. —composed of Arkansas regiment infantry Colonel Patterson. Arkansas regiment infantry. Late Colonel Hindmaa. meat, Richardson, Light Artillery, Captain P. A. Davis, arranged an impromptu bop, which, to say the least, was a very fine affair, Numerous ladies, wives of officers and privates, were present, and a general good time was had allaround. Mise iow hanes and 0. ey ag the managers, acquitted themacives very ereditably. number of invited participated in the festivity. By direct and reliable information, { learn that Sewall’s Point is manned by only about two hundred men. The a tk, military and paval, uadoubtedly know these facta, and should act accordingly. | come the rine ARRIVAL OF THE STORESHIP SUPPLY. Cedar Keye—Important 8 United States Gunboat Hatteras—Seven Vessels The United States storeship Supply, Commander Colvo- coresses,from Ship Island January 12, arrived at this port yesterday morning, having on board as prisoners the captains and crews of the steamboats Anna and Lewis, and schooner A. J. Pion, all captured by the gun- boat New London, off Florida. . Subjoined is @ list of her officers:— ‘Surgeon—Win. M. King ‘Paymaster—Coaries H. Eldredge. Acting Masters—Jas. D. Wood, Wm. R. Browa, G. B. Aimy, J. Cald. Captain's Clerk—Geo. P. Colyocorerses. Paymaiter’s Clerk—Wrm. P. Blagrove. ‘The Supply, on the fifth day out, and im latitnde 24 12 north, tongitude 82 31 west, boarded and seized the British schooner Stephen Hart, loaded with rifled cannon: powder, Fhileld rifles, gun carriages, blankets, shoos, &c., all,no doubt, intended for the Southern army. She showed English colors when boarded by the Supply,and had cleared from London for Cardenas, Cuba, on the 2d of last December. The master aud crew elaim to be British subjects. The character of the cargo, the proximity of the vessel to the Southern coast, together with other very suspicious circumstances, caused Commander Coivo. ooresses to seize and bring her into this port for adjudica’ ton. She is the most valuable as well as the most important prize that has been captured since the breaking out of this rebellion, as the cargo alone is insured for $125,000, It is diMeult to understand how a vessel loaded with such a.cargo could lawtully clear from an Englieh port, and we hope our government will look into the matter. ‘Two days before the Supply leit Ship Island the United States steamer Hatteras, Commander Emmons, had re- turned from Cedar Keys, where she had captured a bat” tory of two long eighteen pounder fleld pieces, one six. pounder field picce, and tuck some twenty prisoners, among A jeutenant and thirteen armed soldiers belonging toa Florida regiment. She also burnt several verseis, toro of them largo schooners, loaded with cotton and turpentine, juet reacy for soa. ‘The Hatteras burnt the rajiread depot. cars and wharf, telegraph station, barracks, aid brovght off xome public property. ‘This pice had been 80 long neglected thai it had be. yal place of trade on the west coast of Florida, and severai of the vorsele Geatesyed had pre- vious!y been captured from the poor fisiermen out of West, Tne Supply briogs a large mail from the blockading srauadron. proprianan bil. i The cianse sor the apProprintion of $4,800,000 for the | ‘Fil widest States pteamer Brook iyn bad arrived on the etapion proyions to Lo Suj ply lees ing. Tennessee reg’t infantry ....Colonel Wm. Allison. ‘The whole force, as wil thes be seen, consists of ten be 500—of whom at least the hilis surrounding the city, and the whole force will not amount to over 9,000. ‘The question is, will General Buell give the rebeis time to recuperate their demoralized strength and reorganize a force at Bowlng Green sufficient for its defence, I think not. Movements are already afoot of which I dare lost at arene freee Neeeee bene ment is being made by the three grand divisions of the army in Central Kentucky which will precipitate them upen the doomed stronghold from three different points of the compass, and that one of the three columus ‘will advance upon a point of whose wi th on commander is fully izant. Bowling Green will shortly be ours, and, if divinati of army efficers and well informed men have aught ia them of truth, it ‘Will be eurs without battle, Whatever may now be said of the apparent dilatoriness of army movements in this State, when the etra of General Buell (or General McClellan) is made known by time and the successes it will bring, I venture the assertion that no campaign of late years will havo shown greater skill, tact and fore- sight on the part of any commander than will have been demonstrate! a8 existing im the on of the com- this department. Whether the combination of the men on this part of the great chessboard be the result of General McCielien’s skill or of that of Buell, certoin it is that it Geueral 5 will produce honor for the commaudér and success for ourarms. One of the results of this strategy is found, or will be found, im the abandonment of a position at Bowling Green which the rebels hoped six months of ‘eparation had made impregnable to an attack. ier- the only persons disappointed at this result are those who have been looking forward to s great fight at this point. 1am puzzled to think how your abolition co- temporary of the Tribune—whose correspondent at this place nas diligently posted himself on our force in Ken- tucky, and published his contraband information for the benelit of the enemy—will be affectod by the peace(ul ture of this important point. Your correspondence from Somerset intimated that the Fast Tennessee movement would be directed towards the western limit of that district. This was the apparent course of the whole division of Genera! Thomas, and is the route of a portion of his force; but I learn that two brigades under Sel ‘and Carter are now at London, on the march to Barboursyille and Cumberland jap, intending, possibly, to penetrate the Gap. Cumber- land’ Mountain is occupied by the Teanessce regiment of Colonel Robert Hatten. These aré Middle Tennessceaus, who, like their fellows at Mill Springs, have but little heart iu the matter. There is a rebel at Jackaboro, At the Cumberland Gap we shall have another intrench- ment affair, and, it is hoped, with the same satisfactory result. NEWS FROM KENTUCKY. nrdrne Coransani, Feb. 13, 1862. A gentleman from Green river yehterday reports that 6,000 Unionists had crossed Green river up to the time he tert. Lovisvinum, Feb. 13, 1962. All is quiet dowm the road. General Hindman is re- ported at Bowling Green. It is supposed he is in consnl- tation with reference to an evacuation Sr. Lovis, Feb. 18, 1862. ‘The Cairo correspendent of the Demecrat says that ho - vy cannonading was heard three hours yesterday aftor- noon in the vicinity of Columbus, It is supposed thy rebels were practieing. ‘There bas been no boat from the Cumberlend or Ter- nese ce today. ad *, se THE UNION FLEET AT WORK. Capture of a Rebel Schooner with $65,000 of Cotton on Board. The Union Expedition to Cedar Keys, Florida. Rebel Vessels Destroyed or Captured. 4 THE REBEL FORTIFICATIONS DESTROYED. Probable Fatal Accident to the Com- mander of the Vincennes. THE PORTER MORTAR FLOTILLA. THE SCHOONER WILDER AFFAIR, 3 &e., &e.: Ye steamship Oriental, Captain B. Tazo, from Key ‘West 7th inst., via Port Royal 9th, at half-past eleven A. M., arrived at this port yesterday at two P. M. To Mr. Antonio Lakens, the obliging purser of the ship, weare indebted for memoranda of voyage, passenger list, &c., and for the prompt delivery of our correspond- ence. ‘Mr. Lakens reports the following vessels at Key Weet? ‘Ith inst.:—United States steamships Santiago de Cuba and Florida, gunboat Tahoma, from Pensacola; United States schooner Wanderer, barks J. W. Churchill and Emily Miner. ‘The beacons C and D, on Crocus and Alligator sboals of the Flerida reefs, are down. Captain Benjamin Tuzo, Sr., died on board at Port Royal, 9th inst., of inflammation of the bowels. Our Key West Correspondence. Kay Weer, Jan. 20,1862. Gale at Key West—Its Effect Upon the Camp of the Nimety. Srd Regiment—Street Parade of the Ninetieth— Arrival Of the Santiago de Cuba—News from “Secessia’ —Arrival Of the Lissie Weston, formerly W. C. Atwater, with Three 4 Escape of the Inhabitants in Case of prthon mendes ea Emma—Late News—Expected Arrivat of General Brannan—Sanitary Condition of Key West— Necessity for Cleanliness—Chances of Yellow Pever—De. parture of a Rebdt, dc., dc. From the night of the 224 until the morning of the 25th inst. agale of great violence prevailed at this place. It @ommenced at southeast and ended at northwest, aud ‘was ofa very unusual character for this season of the year. While the wind was to the southward of west it war ac- companied by copious rain, which was most welcome, as it filled the majority of cisterns on the island, and gave us ‘once more a supply of water. Several of the oldest inha bitants pronounce the violence of the wind but little Jes® than that of the hurricane of 1846, when Key West was 8}most submerged. We have been anticipating hearing of many marine disasters, especially with our blockading ficet; but recent arrivals show that the centre of th® storm was about this place; for its violence was pot 50 reat either to the northward or southward of ug, ap: in ull probability it did not extend as far as Pensacola or the mouth of the Mississippi river. ‘The only damage sustained on the island during the storm was to the camp of the Ninety-first regiment. They are located almost directly en the south beach, where they were exposed not only to the full force of the gale, Dut the great rise of water which always follows a strong southerly wind. The consequence was that a ina- jority of the tents went down, and the balance were more or less under water. The camp presented on the morning of the 234 instant # most dilapidated appear- ance, and the men were the picture of “moist, disagreea- ble bodies.” They formed but # poor opinion of the climate from their experience, having been informed that storms never occurred at Key West, ard all they had todo was to make themselves comfortable. The scenes at the camp that night can only be equalled by what must have occurred before Sebastopol when the camp of the Allies was destroyed by # hurricane, Nothing can be imagined more uncomfortable to the occupants» and certainly nothing more ludicrous to a looker on, than seeing the ter part of a regiment chasing their tents in. ‘he heighth uf a severe storm of wind and iain. ‘The camp of the Ninetieth regiment, being on the op- posite side of the island and weil sheltered, suffered but little. Both regiments had been put to much oe ae 16 are . teenie of both regiments is excellent. sagidiy secovering and | trust, in a short time, there will be a ciean bill of health. ust say , for the credit of both regiments, that a more quiet, orderly and well be- haved set of men never lett New York. They have ga'ned the good will of all the inhabitants of the plage, and are acredit to the volunteer regiments of the United States. id upon it they will, when called into active ser- vice, make their mark. We were Cae sy FSomergg | afternoon last, by fom nel Mor, Nineticth, to @ street parade of his Fegimeut. It was a very creditable affair. The men marched and looked exceedingly well, and, as the oid regular army officers stationed here remarked, they Sane oe ee eos worked, to make as fine a regiment as there service. Iam plenred to say the Ninety-first is not inferior tothem. As] am writ- ing, the band of the Ninetieth can be heard ciscoursing delicious mutic. It js the hour of their dress 5 four P. M., which is always witmersed by hund« miring citizens. We have become a lively city since the arrival of these troops, and 1 am inclined to ) whem they are removed, it will be regretted by the majority of our citizens, for eer assisted us to pass many an hour that’ would bave otherwise been monotonous. ‘The officers of both regiments appear determined to bring their men up Jo a proper standard, and, if they only con- tinue as they have commenced, Will have ne difficulty ; for the men apparent'y desire to aid their officers in every way. The principal reaso hy uniform good conduct among these men is can obtain wo liquor. Ido mean to numbor of them desire it; but it fact that if only a few ebtained it, they, by their ence, would tend to demoralize the rest. rule Were adoped in every garrisoued place here, in regard to the sale of liquor, there fow, ifany, complaints regarding the disorderly conduct of dur volunteer soldiers, and our present enormous army — rapidly rise to a condition second to none in the world. ‘On the afternoon of the 25th inst. the United States ba arrived, having left Matanzas u . She brings us the news that the steamer which arrived io Havana, after being chased by the Brooklyn, which fact | mentioned in my last, proves to be the Victoria, from New Orieans, bringing dates from that place to the 18th inst. Here, acain, are we indebted to secession papers for late intelligence, having had no mail from the North ince th. Gib just. The New Oricans oy report a battle in Kentucky, in which the re. claim a victory. Of course they do; we could expect nothing olse. They also say that their force was dat two thousand Ove hundred, against eight thousand of ours. Hore again no dowbt they tell the truth. I was unable to obtain further particulars; in fact the officers had no other iuformatien, y bad not been in Havana for some days. Whatthey btained from Havana papers received in i -* . tanzas during the late gale, nothing of The Bantiage de Cuba renamed bat stow hours: it there. ing con “ in port, sai sane event communicate with the Flag Officer of the Gulf biockading equadren, having important but private dee) atches. @ are yet without inteiligence from Cedar Keys, but may have news any moment, We are led to believe, however, that the place is fact that the Florida None come, est and ite inhabitants are fo gotten by the governimen( and people of the We have to siu'y patience biere, and put ap with many inconvenicnees, Yestorlay we had the monotony varied by the arrival of the schooner Lizzie Weston, of Apalnekiesks, formerly the W.€. Atwater, of New Havem, loaded with threa alee of cotten—a prige to the United States gun Itasca, Liewtonant Caldwell emnand ing. ‘The Lizzie Weeton, or Atwater, cleared from thts plac Wie o