The New York Herald Newspaper, December 11, 1868, Page 3

* aiscugsion arose upon the reference of a private WASHINGTON PROCEEDINGS IN CONGRESS. The Indian Bureau Transfe? Bill in the Senate. The President’s Financial Schemes De- nounced as Repudiation. u Proposed National System of Military Educa- tion Slighted in the House. Adjournment of Both Houses Until Monday. WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 1868, The Transfer of the Indian Bureau—A Signi- ficant Vote. ‘The proposed transfer of the Indian Bureau to the’ War Department, which went through the House the second day of the session, occupied the attention of the Senate to-day. Though General Grant had even his sanction to the measure in bis annual re- Port, still it was rather coldly received by the Senate to-day and after a long debate referred to the Com- mittee on Indian Affairs. Several very able Sena- tors seem to oppose the measure, or at least they show a determination to examine into ita character closely before allowing it to become law. Its refer- ence, after several speeches pr9and con., to the Com- mittee on Indian Affairs is regarded here as its pro- bable execution, for its friends say that that Commit- tee will never suffer it to come forth again alive. Should this bill fail it will be rather conclusive as te Grant’s power over the Senate. It is the first declaration of Grant’s policy on any subject of’pubiic import, and inasmuch as he has strongiy recommended it in his annual report, a recommen- @ation which carried it through the House in tri- umph, its failure to secure enough votes in the Sen- ate may possibly be an indication as to the harmony that is to exist between the new Executive and the higher branch of Congress. in spite of the sudden check it sustained to-day Iam disposed to believe It will finally pass in the Senate. 4 A Dull Day in the House. The proceedings of the House to-day were ex- tremely duil. Schenck and Washburne seemed to be laboring under the effects of reaction, which natu- rally followed the violent excitement and passion into which they worked themselves yesterday over the President's Message. Bingham’s temper was in no wise improved by the signal de- feat which he gustained yesterday. The House had another opportunity of Jayghing at his exhibition of spleen in a short ren- contre he had with Scofield, of Pennsylvania. A claim, Bingham wanted it sent to the Court of Ciaims, while Scofield favored its reference to tire Committee on Claims. Scofield is somewhat of a ‘Wag and scemed to enjoy Bingham’s uncontrollable Pasmon and loss of temper over so smal! a matter. ‘Whatever little influence Bingham may heve pox- wessed in the House heretoiore he is fast losing. Re was as clearly beaten to-day as on yesterday, notwithstanding the earnestness with which he de- fended his case. The House in Commilttee of the Whole. It is manifest that little, if apy, business will be trensacted before the holiday recess. The bills re- maining on the Speaker’s table at the close of the last sesbion were all disposed of to-day, afier which, for lack of better employment, the House went into Committee of the Whole, for the purptae of listening to buncombe speeches. In the early part of thé day # large number of bills and petitions, mostiy of a private character, were reported from the Mili- tary Committee and disposed of. The action of the House in passing Washburne’s resolution for a jong recess is regarded as an indication that Congress ‘will transact very little business at this session. General Schenck made an earnest appeal to the Hoase for a shorter recess, but it had no effect. The majcrity are feeling 80 good over the election of Gencral Grant that they are disposed to let the Tax Dill, the Tarff bill and other important measures wait for action until the day of rejoicing is pust. They seem to think that in some way or other the election of Grant will regulate ail these matters, without much exertion on their part. Blaine, of Maine, who addressed the House while in Comantive of the Whole, distinctly enunciated this idea, Undignified Scene in the Hense. Since the beginning of the present session the dis- orderly conduct of members, while business is being transacted, has Been a subject of general remark by persons frequenting the galleries. Tne scene pre- wented resembles that of a large, noisy barroom more than the chief Legislature of the nation. Sometimes 41 is impossible for members to hear their colleagues, sitting but a few seats trom them, though they scream at the top of their voices. Speaker Colfax, ‘who has heretofore prided himself upon his ability and success a8 a presiding officer, seems to have iost contro! of the House, and allows members too about as they please. The Alta Vela Case Revived. ‘The Alta Vela cause, which attracted considerable ationtion last session, im connection with Judge Biack and the impeachment trial, was revived to-day by Mr. Pheips, of Maryland, who offered a petition from Black's Baltimore clients, together with a reso- lation on the subject, both of which went to the Committee on Foreign Affuira. Mr. Phelps’ inten- thon is to push the matter before the committee, and WM possivie get some action upon it by the House. Ja this, it is said, he will be assisted by Judge Biaok. General Butler’s Financial Bill. General Butier has decided not to vring in his bil on finances until after the recess of Congress. Revision of the Tariff. The Committee of Ways and Means had a con- ference this morning on the tariff question. It is not probable there Will be any early action on the subject. The Alaska Purchase, Some wretched Bohemian started the story from here recently that in the purchase of Alaska from Russia a corruption fund Was made use of by the agents of the Czar, and it was deliberately asserted that $2,000,000 was spent in securing the passage of the appropriatign. The name of an old and very prominent banker of this city, Mr. Riggs, was intro- duced as @ leading one to whom the money was con- signed to aid in making the Alaska purchase a pop- viar investment. After him came the names of lead- ing papers in the country whose editors or corres- pondents were represented as receiving from Mr. Riggs a certain share of the bribery fund. The editor of one paper in particular, who had all along consistently opposed the Alaska purchase, was put down as having received $20,000, and the corres- pondent here $5,000. Mr. Riggs, who was declared the head and front of the whole proceeding, indignantly denies any connection with the transaction. The whole statement appears to have been manufactured from the lively imagination of @ newspaper acribbier. I am in- formed that the subject is to be investigated by ® special committee, after the recess, when the ‘whole subject wiil be thoroughly investigated. Communication from the Peruvian Govern. te Rear Admiral Turner, commanding the United States naval forces in the Pacific, has forwarded to the Navy Department a letter from General Hovey, United States Minister to Peru, enclosing a copy of a jetter from the Peruvian government, thanking the Tepublice of Chile and Bolivia and the representa- lave of the United States of America and France for thelr generous conduct towards the people in the | South Of Peru who suffered from the consequences of earthquake in August jast. ‘Roar Admiral ‘Turner algg wept to the department Distribution ef Prise Mency. ‘The case of the prize vessel Sea Lion, captured the United States steamers ‘and will soon be ready for payment. This prize was captured i 2aly; 1963, and of the ligt has been delayed by the Of a United States Senater Drake Opposes Universal Amnesty. Senator Drake, it is saia, is bitterly opposed to the proposition of granting general amnesty to those who took part im the late rebellion and is preparing an argument against it, to be published in the State of Missouri. Report of the Lighthouse Beard. The report of the Lighthouse Board has been sub- mitted to Congress, showing its operations during the past year. The report says that particular at- tention has been given to the important subject of “ear signals” as aids to navigation, and to the not jess important investigation as to the best means for lighthouae illumination, with @ view to economy and power. Since the establishment of the light- house organization the number of lights has been doubled; the old system of reflectors which was previously in use has been replaced by the more eifectual apparatus of Fresnel, and the efficiency and economy in every part of the service have materially been advanced. Lard oil is better adapted to burn- ing than any other illuminating fuid which has yet been proposed, The reason for not using petroleum isthe danger arising from its highly inflammable character and explosiveness of its vapor when min- gied with atmospheric air. The Board has intro- duced important improvements in the lamps usually supplied by the makers of the Fresnel apparatus. Among the numerous examinations is light from the combustion of magnesium..From its results it would appear that if this material could be procured in sufficient quantities and at reasonable cost it would probably supersede ail other materials which have been proposed for lighthouse illumination. Improve- ments have also been made in fog instruments. The operations of the lighthouse establishment and the Tequirements of the next year are presented in de- tail by districts, The Antietam Cemetery Society. The Board of Trustees of the Antietam Society held their annual meeting last might at the Ebpitt House. John Jay, of New York, was re-elected president; Thomas A. Boulle, of Maryland, secre- tary and treasurer, and Dr. Briggs superintendent. The executive committee was appointed as fol- lows:—John H. B. Latrobe, of Baltimore; Henry Edwards, of Boston; G. L. Cranmer, of Weat Vir- gina. A special committee, consisting of Mr. La- trobe, General Negley and Colonel Grimshaw, was appointed to take and report tothe Board the evi- dence in the matter of the claim touching the lodge. After the transaction of regular business a pro longed and animated debate was had upon the sab- Ject of the allotment of ground for the burial of the Confederate dead, in accordance with the require- ments of the charter, and the subject was postpontd to the next meeting to allow of conference and ar- rangements by the trustees from Maryland with the authorities of that State, with a view to the set- Uement of the question in a manner mutually satis- factory to ali parties. The Board at a late hour ad- jJourned, to meet at the call of the President, Supreme Court Proceedings. ‘The Supreme Court was occupied most of the day in hearing the closing argument of Attorney Gene- ral Evarts on behalf of the government in the legal tender cases, Argument was commenced m the following con- fiscation cases from Louisiana, which are now re- argued by order of the Court:--No. 35, United States appellant, vs. the steamboat Nina Simms, and No. 44, the steamboat General Beauregard, appellant, vs. the United States, The Governor of Movtanna. Green Clay Smith to-day tendered bis resignation as Governor of Montana Territory. It has not yet been accepted by the President. The Reunion of the Armics of the Ohio and the Tennessee. Quite a large number of army officers will leave here on Sunday next to attend the reunion of Sher- man’s armies at Chicago on the 16th inst: Among them will be General Grant and several officers of his statl, Secretary Schofleld, Generais George H. Thomas, A. H. Terry and Colonel Campbcii. Personal. Henry Wikof, of New York, who has been here for several days, left to-night for New York. Lieutenant Commander H. De Haven Maniey has been ordered to the Hydrographic Ofice in this clty. Hon. John A. Logan, having recovered from tits late indisposition, was ip his seat in the House to- day. THE FORTIETH CONGRE33. Third Session. SENATE. WASHINGTON, Dee. 10, 1868, On motion of Mr. ANTHONY, (rep.) Of 'R. L, resolu- Uons were adopted continuing the special committee to inquire what, if any, corrupt means were used or attempted to be used to infiuence Senators on the impeachment trial, and the committee to revise and Ox the pay of the officers of the Senate, and to reap- point the select committee to whom was referred certain railroad bills; also to create a new standing committee on the revision of the laws of the United States. STANDING COMMITTERS. Mr. ANTHONY then moved to proceed to the ap- pointment of the staading committees, which was agreod to, and thereupon he nominated the following members of committees, Who were elected without dissent:— Porvign Relations—Measrs, Sumner (chairman), Fessenden, Cameron, Harlan, Morton, Patterson, of New Hampshire, and Bayard. Finaness—Messrs, Sherman (chairman), Morgan, Werner, Wiliams, Corbett, Henderson and Morril of Vermont. Appropruitions—Messra. Morrill of Maine (chair- man), Grimes, Howe, Wilson, Cole, Conkling, Buck- aiew. Comemerce—Mesata. Chandiet (chairman), Morri!\, of Vermont, Vickers, Spencer, Keliogg and Corbert. Manufactures—Messre. Sprague (chairuin), Yates, Abbott, Dixon and Robertson. agriculiure—Messra, Cameron (chairman). Cattell, Th Weich and Met 5 Wuttary Affairs and the Milltio—Mesere, Wilson (cuairman), Sprague, Cameron, Morioa, Abvott, Jinayer and Dooiittie. Nucal Affairs—Mesera, Grimes (chairman), An- thony, Cragin, Frelinghuysen, Drake and Hendricks. Judiwiar y—Messrs. ‘Trumbuil (chairman), Stewart, Frelingiuysen, Edmunds, Conkung, Rice and Hen- dricks, Post Offices and Post Roads—Merers. Ramsey (chairman), Conness, Pomeroy, Van Winkie, McDon- | ald, Weich and Dixon. Pubic Lands—Meesrs. Pomeroy (chairman), Stewart, Gsborne, Williams, Tptou, Hendricks ana Warner. Private Land Claims—Mesars. Wilitams (cbair- men), Sumner, Kellogg, Fe and Bayard. Intian Affrirs—Measra, naerson (chairmen), Morrill, of Maine, Ross, Corbett, Thayer, Backalew and Doolittle. Pensions—Mesars. Van Winkle (chairman), Kd- munds, Fowler, Tipton, Davis, Spencer and Sawyer. Revolutionary Claims—Measrs, Nye (chairman), ag Pool, Patterson, of Tennessee,,and Sauls- ury. . Ciiline—Messrs. Howe (chairman), Willey, Fre- linghuysen, Howard, Robertson, Cole and Davis. District of Columbia—Mesare. Harlan (chairman), Suinner, Rice, Patterson, of New Hampshire, Har- rs, Patterson, of Tennessee, and Vickera, Patents and the Patent Office—Messra. Willey rne, and Norton. Public Buildings and Grounds— (chairman), Trumbull, Ferry, Davis and Whyte. Territories—Messre. Yates (chairman), yee pg = avis Fowler, McDonald, Ferry, MeCreery, orton. Pacifie Railroad—Mesars. Howard (chairman), Sherman, Morgan, Conness, ‘y, Stewart, Wil- #on, Harlan and Drake, To Audit and Consrol the Contingent epenece of the Senate—Mesars. Oragin (chairman), Morrill, of Vermont, and Buckalew. #ngrossed Bills—Messrs. Fowler (chairman), Sum- ner and Norton. Mines and Mining—Messrs. Conness (chairman), ba Anthony, Yates, Ross, wury and Revision of the Lais of the United Stater—Mesara. es (chairman), Sumner, Bates, Bayard and pool, Special Commitice on Raitways—Mersers, Sherman chairman), Sumner, Buckalew, Chandler, stewart, hey and Vickers. Corniniltee to inqutre whether any improper means had been used or attempted to be used for influencing (he vole Wf Senaturs Upyn te inpeachinent— Messe. | he was opp | March 2, 1467. , Morrilf, of Maine, Chandler, Stewart and 4 he withdrew The PRestpent then directed the Secretary the calendar of bills and resolutions on the mon ae which were referred to the api MPTION OF SPECIE PAY! UONION IN GEORGIA, Mr. SUMNER also the introduced by him to carry out the Keconstruction acts in Georgia—viz., to resume to a certain extent Se Tececanttiy oes aan amet aving been illegally constitu and on his motion tt was referred to the Committee ic onaeee, o Crip rst ean aay ayo AVE ir, DRAKE, (rep.) of Mo., explained the purpose his resouution in relation to the grades of and lieutenant genera! in the army and ad! and vice admiral in the ged to be to Keep those es in reserve as rewards for extraordinary public ser- vices, and not to leave them open to be reached by regular promotion and accommodation. It was re- ferred first to the Committee on Military Affairs, to afterwards, if favorably reported on ‘by them, to the Commitee on Naval Affairs, THE COPPER DILL. % ‘The House bill to regniate the duties on copper, &c., was referred to the Committee on Mines au Mining. THE INDIAN BUREAU. . When the Honse bill to restore tie Bureau of Indian Affairs to the War Department was reached. Mr. THAYER, (rep.) ol Neb., moved to refer it to the Comunittee on Indian Affairs, and Mr. WILson, (rep. of Mass., moved to refer it to the Commitiee on Military Atfalrs, and remarked that the proposed transfer was favored by several distin- guished generals, Mr. FERRY, (rep.) of Conn., opposed sending it to the Committee on Indian Affairs, becutse to send it there would, he thought, be fatal to tne bili, of whieu he was in favor. Mr. Tipron, (rep.) of Neb., favored the motion to send it wo the Committee ou Indian Alfairs, be- cause he thougnt if any change was to be made in the Indian policy of the government that committee, which had so long had charge of the whole subject, Was the one most fit to deal with it. Mr. MORRILL, (rep.) of Me., thought it should go as a matier of course to the Committee on Indian Affairs, because the subject properly belonged there. The suggestion of the senator from Massachusetts (Mr. Wiison) that the transfer was favored by some of the geaerais did not strike him as avery good reason for maktng such transfer, ‘the recominenda- tion of a general or the fact that by some means ine bill had been reported by the Military Cominittee of the House was not to contro) the action of the Senate; and he would say, further, that it was a question upon which even the generals were divided 1m opinion. * Mr. THAYER, (rep.) of Nev., said that the Sena- tor from Connecticut (Mr. Terry) had given astranger reason for not sending the bill to the appropriate committee—namely, that it might be reported upon unfavorably. if that were to be recognized as a reason for not making the usual refereace of a bill it would be as well to ebolisn ail committees at once. If there was a disposition to rush this bul through he protested against it. He was not sige) to say now how he would vote upon the ii], nor had he any persona! reason for wishing to send to one committee rather than the other, having the nonor to be @ member of each; but he did nov want to see the usage of the Senate departed from in this respect. As to the recommendation of the gen- eral spoken of he would say that he had documents in is Gesk showing that the Lieutenant Genera: had opposed the transier. Mr. SHEKMAN, (Tep.) of Ohto, said he wished to have it referred to the Committee on Military Affairs, for the reason that a similar bill had been referred to the Commiitee on Indian Affairs two years ago and had never been reported at all. ‘The subject was an uuportant one, upon which the Senate had a rigit to expect an early report; and if he could have as- surance that the Commitiee on Indian Atairs would give it proper aud early atrention he would vote for the reference of the bill to that commiitee, otherwise he would not. Mr. TRUMBULL, (rep.) of DL, sald that to refuse wo send to the Commitiee on indian Aifairs this bil), which properly beionged there, Would be to make a reflection upon that committee which he was not eepared winake. As to other similar bul, of whica the Senator from (Mr. Sherman) had spoken, there might be good reasons wily the coin- mittee had not yet reported upon it, Mr. W1.80N, (rep.) Of Mass., said that during the Indian war in Oregon this matter had been fully in- by the indian Comission, which then came to the concipsion that the Indian Bureau ought to be transferred to the War Department and that millions of dollars had been lost to the country by the transfer from the Wer Department to the De- partment of the Interior. Mr. CONELING, (rep.) of N. Y., was lexed to know how to vole. He thought that this was not the proper time to go into the merits of the sabject. ‘The Senate remember that it was @ very importaut one, demanding immediate attention, and although he agreed that technically the Commitice on Indian Affairs was the rone to which the bill should be referred, yet the old maxim that “a child should not ve put to nurse to an unfriendly mother” was good, and he thought it mast be apparent to all men that the tribunal which @ bill proposes to oust of jurisdicuon is not the best one to pass upon it. ir. CONNESS, (rep.) Of Cai., proposed to get rid of the difficuity by a motion to consutute the Com- mittee on Indian Affairs aud the Commitice on Mili- tary re og @ jolot committee to consider the subject and re; Mr. MoRraILt, (rep.) of Me., replying to Mr, Conk- ling’s suggestion that the Comunitwe on Indian Ailairs would not be @ disinterested tribunal, said = Avg ge on ae Adairs, whose juris- ry proposed augment, was not in position to be more iinpartial. Mr. LONKLING denied that he had said that either committee was disqualified to deal with the matter fairly, because of the interest in the result. He had only stated the generally accepted view that a tribunal wiich it is proposed to oust of its jurisdic. tion by a certain bili ts not likely to be the best or wisest tribunal to deal with that measare. While he did not think either of the committees named disqualified, yet if an arrangement could be made uke that proj by Mr. Conuess, by which it should not go exciusively to either, he would pre- fer it. Mr. Davis, (tem,) of Ky., said that he had formerly opposed the transfer to the War b rtment, but he Was now strongly induced to vote for tt, Mr. Consett, (rep.) of Oregon, thought that the transfer would Botresuit in greater economy, wad Bald tiat his experience in Oregon bad satisied him that where there were te most troops there were the most difficulties with the Imdians, Mr. BaNDRICKS, (dem.) Of lad, said he regarded the military service of the United States as the not expensive government Fervice ia the worid, and pre- dicted increased capenaitures instead of ecouomy if the transter to the War Department was made, Mr. PRSSENDEN, (rep.) Of Me., thought it must be clear to every one that the subject of the bill be- longed properiy to the Committee on indian Afairs, aud that to refuge to make the reference would be a regection on the commutiee. He was in favor of sending the bili to the proper coramittee, from which he had no doubt the Senate would in due ume have 8 full and satisiactory report. His own opinion was tn favor of the transfer; put if he conla fied, either by a tepert or in debate, fiat that opinion Was Wrong, ie Would be prepare? to clause it. Mr. DoOLITYLY. (deas.) of Wis., said that some yeare ago a joiat commiuioe having charge of the whole subject had, upou a full examination of it, aided by the testhuony Of army officers and civilians, reported unanimously agalust the proposition to transfer tie Jodian Kurean tothe War Deparément; and, aitaough the trausfer bad been sometimes recommended by military nen, yet the jucgment of the senate biiber- to bad always been agaiust it. .He saw no reason for supposing that the Committee on Indian Affairs desired to avoid ubiitty of Reporting upon the proposition one way or the uther. For himself, osed to the transfer, believing that it would result in increased extravagance; use, while the Indian Bureau remained in the Department of the Interior detailed estimates must be made of each item of expense connected with tt. But it tt were transferred to the War Departinen! they would all come tn under the head “wubststence of the fe &c. He did not deny that abuses existed in indian Bureau, for they wouid spring up ia at td e the ever there was money to be expended; not believe that they would be Teforined by the pro- posed transfer. Mr. SrewaRT, (rep.) of Nev., remarked that the In- dian affairs could not bly be any worse man- aged than at present cited the example of Great Britain in her Sy my colonies, where, he said, she dealt with the Indiaus by her army. Mr. DOOLITTLE denied that she did #0, and said nt jealt with them sitogether by civil agents a jona’ al hapression among the people. that our treatment r iy e je that our nt of ihe Indian was @ national crime, second in mag- nitude only to our treatment of the negro, and ex- the opinion that hould give them less fighting and more justice. Hi the newspapers that the recent battie was with a friendly tribe within @ t reservation, ARMY APPROPRIATION BILL. The Senate then voted upon the motion to refer the bill to the Committee on Indian Affairs, and it was so refer Mr. WiLson introduced a bill to repeal section six of the act making appropriations for the support of the army for the year ending June 40, 1868, approved Referred to the Committee on Miit- tary Affairs, ALD TO MINNESOTA RATLROADA. Mr. Rawswy, (rep) of Minn, introd need a bil wrauting Jandy vo ald iu tie Cos URbON at @ Fall ARTIOLE 15. No distinction shall be made by the United ive franchise in the United States, w: was referred to the same com- 2s. Conness Introduced abil oxtng the compensa a tion for labor for the government of the United States, was iaid on the table and Aaprat Mo be peta afr wana ‘tat aaa Steg e employment of the United States shall receive for a day’s , 88 provided by law, the full wages and as if ten hours Mr. CouR (rep) of Cals troduced. il: to 5 @ bill. vide for the pa MO avenue, which b referred to the Committe on the District Mr, HArnis, (rep.) of La., introduced a bill to pro- vide for,the paving of Pennsylvania avenue with the Nicolson pavement, yhioh was referred to the Com- ir. SURMMAN introduced # Bil to Incorporate the ‘. AN @ bill to incot National Junction Railroad Com , Which was re- ferred vo the Somtaltee on the igi os Porras. road commence at ueduct bridge in Georgetown and run around the clly of Washing. nae to aie ya ~ fe eines ane 18 prohibited exclusive priv ‘any one cor- poration. mn CREDENTIALS OF SENATOR HILL, OF GEORGIA. On notion of Mr, Susman the credentials of Mr. Hill Senator elect from Georgia), with the memorials, &e., relating to them, were referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. ARMING THR MILITIA IN THE SOUTHERN STATES, __,Mr, RICE called up the bi!l to provide for the issue of arms to the militia of certain States lately in re- bellion, which, on motion of Mr. Wilson, was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs. THE PRESIDENTS MESSAGE, Mr, EDMUNDs (rep.) of Vt., called for the unfinished husiness. Some of his friends, he said, and some who were not his iriends, had supposed that he moved to adjourn on Wednesday in order to prevent the readin, of the President's Message. [lis motion had no suc! be on the contrary, he was in favor of havingit read for the benetit of his party, and that the people might see what kind of maa they had at the head of the government, He therefore moved that the Sec- retary be directed to proceed with the reading of the Megsuge. The motion was carried, Mr. CAMERON, (rep.) of Pa., renewed the motion to dispense with the further reading of the Message, but wt the suggestion of other Senators immediately withdrew it, The S&CRETARY then read the Message from the point at which Le had been interrupied yesterday. When he had finished Mr. EDMUNDS Moved to Jay the Message on the table and order it to be printed, which motion was carried, ‘The PRESIDENT presented a communication from the Secretary of the Interior transmitting accounts up to June last of disbursements for incidental and miscellaneous parposes during 1803, PAYMBNT OF THE PUBLIC DEBT. Mr. EDMUNDs said that in view of the extraorat- nary proposition relating to the national debt con- tainedin the President’s Message he would move, onnext Tuesday, that the Finance Committee, unless they shou.d tu the meantime report the reso lution on that subject offered by him on the 2ist of November last, be discharged from the further con- sideration of it and Would move its passage. The resolution affirms that the faith of the United States is solemnly pledged to the payment of the national debt, Mr. SpMUNDS, continuing, gaid that the proposi- tlon of the President was that the people should repudiate the national debt by insisting that the payment of the juterest upon it for a certain number of years shonld be taken as payment of the principal, and thereby dishonor theiuselves forever in the eyes: of all honest men. Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN, (rep.) of N. J.—I do not think it fs proper, sir, thas this Message should pass without having a word said in reference to it; but what | have to say will occupy oniy a little of the tume of the Senaic. 1 ain glad that the Mexsage has been read. ‘hat inuch our respect for the highest oficial position in the nation—our respect for, per- haps, the highest position in the world—re- quires; aud as lo the refiections contained in it upon the legisiative department of the government— alegisiative department which, in harmony and co- operation with the patriotisin of the people, with the exertions of our lamented President and with the exertions of our ever-triumphant general, has suc- ceeded In rescuing and preserving the nation; the leg- islative departigent witich for four years has carried on a contest with obstructions and obstructionistsa— such s legisiative department cannot be dis) by the violent denunciations of the vanquished. ati glad that the Message hea been read, in order wat We may declare before the world that our at- tention has been called to the most extraordinary proposition put forih by the Executive of ths na- tion—a Tindal which, if we were not Sccustomed wonders from taat source, would fill every person here with astomishment—to wit, (as bas been stated) that we shall pay the interest on our national debt for seventeen or sixteen years, and that then the debt shail be rey ed and this young Christian republic be made a hissing and a byword among the nations of the earth, and # which is worth to this young nation just epi on its reer more than that multi} al fold, shipwrecked forever. I am glad, Mr. President, ti it been read, in order we may here declare before the world that we, the accredited representa- tives of the American Peopie, repudiate and reject the repudiating doctrine that Message, in order that we may let the world know that the oa people of this country (however the Chief executive may underrate them) who had the hero- ism to preserve the liberties of the couniry have now the will and the ability to preserve its honor in our Iilimitabie domain, in our waving field, in our exhaustiess mines, in our industrial enterprise—yes, end if aced be, in the tension ana toil of every muscle and the sromerers from every brow, the e honor and the faith of glad, too, that we have tne opportunity of calling the atteution of the public to the iact that if we proceed to oa Tomoy principal of our debt at the same rate that We have been pi it for the last five years, at the 1 twenty ty there will be no debt to tempt us to self-dishonor and self-destruction. No, sir; civil Mberty and equality will not die to tne world by the stab that rept ion would give thet so long as the people are iully and honestly represented here. It is but @ Lttie longer, sir, that we lave to wait; but a little longer. Let us be patient. At the conclusion of Mr, Frelinghuysen's remarks there was suppressed applause in Lue guileries, ADJOURNMENT. Mr. EDMUNDS at once moved to adjourn, which was carried, the [tia geced beg, in accordance with a previously adopted resoluiion, until Monday at twelve o'clock M. \ HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 1868, VACANCIES IN STANDING COMMITTEES FILLED. ‘The SPEAKER announced the following appoint- ments on cornmittces to fill vacancies occasioned by the reviguation of members who were serving on other committees and by other changes:— On Revision OF Laws—Messrs, Meee of Kentucky, Dickey of Peunsylvania, Boydeu of Sorta Carolina, aua Basler of Tennessee. On Klections—Messrs, Pettus of Pennsylvania, and | Stover of Missouri, On Commerce—Mr. Kellogg of Alabama, On Appropriawons—Mr, scolleld of Pennsyl- vania. on Pacific Ravtroad—Mr. Trimble of Kentucky. On Reconstelon—My, Norris of Alabama. On the Mildary— Messrs, Dewees of North Carolina, and Sypler of Lousiana. On Frecduews Afairs—Mr. Bowen of South Caro- ima, On Elucation and Labor—Mr. Whittemore of South Curolina, On Revoiutionary Pensions, &:.—Mesars. Jones of Norin Carolina, Clift of Georgia, and Blackburn of Louiziana. On evotitionary Clatns—Messrs. Dockery of North Carolina, Goas of South Carviina, and Kdwards | of Georgia. On Mileage—Mr, Young of Georgia. On Burolied Billg—Mr, Vallis of Aixbama, On Bcpendtiures tn the Slate Departien'—Messrs, Veda! of Louisiana, Corley of Georgia, and Boles of Arkunsas, On Erpentitures in the Treasury Department— Mesars, Lash of North Carolina, and Tit of Georgia. On Bependitures in the War Deporonent— Mr, French of North Carolina. ' On Expenditures in the Navy Departiven!—Messrs, Buckalew of Alabama, and Gove of Georg: On Expenditures in the Povt Ojics Department— Mr. Newsham of Louisiana. on ndtiures in the Interior Department Messrs. Pierce of Alabama, ani Priuce of Georgia. On Brpenditures on Pudlic Buildings-—Mr. Haughey of Alabama. STAMPING RAILROAD STOCK. Mr. BRAMAN, (rep.) of Mich., introduced a bill to enabie the Holly Way aud Missouri Railroad Com- in Michigan, to have subscriptions to the capl- stamped, &c, Referred to the Committee and Means. MILITARY AFFAIRS. The House proceeded to the business of the morn- ing hour, velag the call of the Committee on Mill- tary Affairs for reports, Several reports were made by Messrs, Garfleid, Boyer, Washbura of Indiana, ives, and $i s ARFTX (rep.) of Ohto, reported back the Senate bill provi for the sale of gue government property at Harper's Ferry, iu West Virginia, which wi as passed, Also the House joint resolution for the sale of the Bergen Heights Arsenal, tn Hudson county, New Jersey, Which was passed. Also to declare and fix the status of the corps of Judge Advocates of the army, fixing the number at tweive, including the Judge Advocate General and Assistant ‘iudge Advocate General, and authorizt the President to fill vacancies with the consent 0} the Senate, which te passed. of Aiso the House authorizing the snie of the Chattan Felling mul property at Chattanooga, Teun., to Southwestern trou Company, which ‘Was pasnod, ino the Jolt reaghution donating condemned can- HERALD, FRIDAY, DECEMBER Il, 1868—TRIPLE SHEET. | amity secured and slavery utterly abolished for the erection of a monument to Major General | and the Union soldiers, at Ivo New York, iit tle e several asylums f Gisabled soldiers. Passed. Also a billy mosnes military reservation at St. Marie, American Baptist Home Mission So- ciety. ae ralitasy tang eae a army off. universities Pinall be eutitied to the full pay of the same as if they were in ot ol ¢ same com- to equalize bounties, which ‘specia) order for the frat Tuesd: January for one hour. NATIONAL SYSTEM OF MILIT; lay in BDUCATION, inhabitants in such State that may be di ted | passed under the previous question, tw have it printed and made a special order. Mr. WASHBURNE, (rep.) of Ill, declared that he not only opposed to the scheme, but was particularly Op} ta order, Woop, (dem.) of N. Y., remarked that this was the most important questions ever one proposed * res and there should be ample time to dis- Mr. Pruyn, (dem.) of N. Y., inquired whether the bili conflicted With or Was an accessory to the Agrl- cultural College bill? Mr. GARFIELD replied that it neither confilcted with nor was accessory to it. He ited to hear the gentleman from Tilinols (Mr. Washourne) pro- nounce against the bill without having had an oppor- tunity to know its provisions, Mr, CHANLER, (dem.) of N. Y., commented upon the absence of provisions in the bill for the edu- cation of naval officers, Mr. PIKE, (rep.) of Me., remarked that the present bene of educat naval ofticers were quite suf- cient Mr. GARFIELD replied that he reported the bill from the Military Committee, which had no jurisdic. tion of naval matters. Mr. CHANLER referred to the fact that Mr. Garfield was chairman of the Committee on Education, aud that under his lead a department of education had been organized, and he heid that he was therefore responsible for not making provision for the educa- tion of naval officers. Mr. GARFIRLD could not consent to go into a dis- cussion of the measure now, but Would only sey that the measure was brought forward by an oficer appointed by General Graut, who had considered the whole subject. Mr. Ross, (dem,) of I, moved to lay the bill on the table, which was agreed to—73 to 40, Mr. GARFIKLD remarked that he congratulated the organ of the incoming adruinistration on the support received from the other side of the House, ir. DopGE, Ley of baa from the sane commit- tee, reported a bil! appropriating $229,848 vo refund to lowa the expense incurred in connection with the raising of troops. Pending the reading of the report the morning hour expired, and the bill went over to the next morning hour for pubiie business. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. The House then, on motion of Mr. SCHENCK, pro- ceeded to the business on the Speakea’s table and dis) thereof as foliows:— ‘he Senaie ewe resolution relating to the ocean mail steamship service between the United States and China, authorized-by act of Congress, approved February 17, 1865. Referred to the Post OMice Com- mittee. ‘The Senate piil in relation to bridges across the Ohio river. After a discussion lasting more than an hour, and participated in princi ally by the Indiana, Ohio and Vennsylvania members, the bill was, on motion of Mr. BincnaM, referred to the Commit- tee on Roads and Canals. Mr. Pugps, (dem.) of Md., aske leave to offer a resolution in relerence to the ejection of American citizens from the guano island of Alta Vela, Ob- ‘ted to, Mr. PHELPs also presented a petition from citizens of Baitimore on that subject, wuich was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Mr. O'NEILL (rep,) of Pa., presented a memorial from the epee Board of Marine Underwriters for the erection of @ lighthouse on the north end of Leaning’s Beach, on the Atlantic coast, off New Jersey, which was referred to the Comunittee on Commerce. RECESS OF CONGRESS, Mr. Washevrn offered his resolution for a re- under ita rebe! lead and the formal installing of that Somat in X, reme executive control would have rit of the Union and reduced our government, as Mr. Webster said the same pernicious would have reduced it in 1830, “to the worst forms of the oid confederation,” in which the “lost cause” would have regained its pienso of State rights and its privilege of eath- aah canning on many of the most precious prin- ciples and priceless WM cmyweapenrtod our constitution. General Grant's elect has averted this great evil— not merely by a tem} triumph, leaving the con- test to be renewed doubtful issue in the end, but with a vic! that removes it ‘rom the list of questions on which parties will divide in the future. The election of 1868 is the last in which the lately rebellious section, even if it could be wholly controlied by rebels, will have sufficient power 1 the electoral vote of the country to make It object either of hope or of fear on the part of organizations Suiving for the government of the Ration. The tendene: been in that direction ever since ahoun’s famous theory of an empire of slave States was destroyed by the admission of California in 1850. The relative power of the two sections has been changing since that date with startling raj idity, even without the intervention of war; aud the ap proaching census of 1870 will disclose tuc fact that the ten rebel States, viewed as one compact power, will no longer have sufficient srengtn to offer temp- tation to the democratic party of North to sacri- fice its oy and its pride for the profit of an alliance with them. The withdrawal of Northern democratic support from these States will give to the loyal inhabitants, who are a clear majority in each one of thei, the power of governing them in the tterest of loyalty, whereby the sectional! and clannish it that has mn thelr bane aud their destruction will* be expeiled, broad, generous national sympathies take ite place. And the effect of thig result on the Norihern demo- cratic party in turn will be to enforce in the end an abandonment of the disloya! attitude by which it has lost its ancient renown. fhe Southern rebels and the Northern democrats, having derived no honor or profit from their persisient co-opera- ton, may find mutual ad and gain by a se- paration in which each, disencumbered of the other, may atone at ietsure for the joimt sins of the dis- creditable maprgees This prospective and peni- tent attitude of the two great Classes of offenders heralds the dawn of that day when Presidential elections will be contested and decided without a melancholy prediction or @ savage Menace OF a dis- solution of the Union, There are few voters now living in this country who ever participated in a Presidential campaign in which the fate of the Union Was not involved, either in the angry threats of po- litical malcontents or in the timid apprehensions of well meaning citizens, cay has now . We have heard the last of that alarm in 1 ‘The Unton was actnally saved by General Grant's victo- ries in the field. The menace of its destruction ceased with his victory at the polls, Second—The recoasiruction laws of Congress bave been vindicated and sustained by General Grant’s election. The State governments erected under those laws will be upheld, and the basis of impartial loyat sul , Without re; to race or color, will be ac- cepted as the permanent rule in the lately rebellious ‘States, as it will at no distant day througout the en- tire Union, This result is certain to be achieved, either through the amelioratioa of prejudice and the conquering force of Justice im the individual states or by the comprehensive influences of a constitutional amendment which shall affect ali the States equally alike. The decision in favor ol the reconstracuon measures must bring peace to the South, and with peace wiil come contentunent and aliuence. The re- beliious element in those States, scciag the hopeless oy of longer resisting the mandate of the nation, whi acquiesce in the decision, if with no beiter grace than merely accepting the inevitabie. And with.thia acceptance wil! begin the real gee oi that sec- tion, in which property will then secure, invesi- remunerative, labor in demand ments inviting an and amply paid. ‘The better minds, even among the rebel leaders, recognize and admit that, as a question of practical statesmanship, it is too late to discuss negro auf- frage; for having been granted, it is 1impossible to recall it. Between originally withholding a franchise from large masses of people and annulling it alter it has been conceded wise men can sce a vast differ- ence—a difference quite literally as great, it may ve, as that between peaceful discussion and bloudy con- flict; so that even excluding from the case the ab- stract and unchanging element of justice which un- derlies it, it is demonstrably impracticable to with- hold suffrage irom the southern negroes now that they have exercised it, without involving conse- quences which would destroy all security for life or property in that section for generations to come. Negro suifrage being, then, of necessity conceded a4 one of tie essent of reconstruction, ceas from Monday, December 21, wo Taesday, the btn of January. Mr. SCHENCK remarked that he felt it useless to attempt toprevent the taking of @ recess, but as he was instructed by the Committee of Ways and Means this morning, he would move an amendment by making the recess from Wednesday, the 23d of December, to Monday, the 4th of January. Mr. WASHAURNE said that as far as he was per- sonally concerned he was entirely indifferent. He ox to be in the city most of the time during gentlemen thought that they could get home at Christmas by Sapouraing on Wednesday, and could get back the Monday after New Yea m thay Would vote for the amendment. He moved previous question. ‘The vote was taken by yeas and on the amendment, and it was rejected. Yeas, 75; nays, 91. Mr. BALDWIN, (rep.) of Maas, moved to lay the resolution on the table. Rejected without division. ‘The resolution as originally introduced was then adopted. REDEMPTION OF LEGAL TENDER NOTES. Mr. Ba. oR), of Pa., introduced a mittee of Ways and Means. directs the Secretary of the Treasury to a to be exchanged for United Siates whenever It shail be demanded at ‘the Treasury in sums not less than $100, and at the following rates of exchange. For the first month, $100 in coin for $135 in notes; for the second month, $100 in coin for $184 in.notes, and soon xt a decrease of one dollar per month until par is reaciued, SENATE BILLS PASSED AND REFERRED. The House again went to the business on the Speaker's table, and di thereof as follows:— ‘The Senate joint resolution in relation to the li- of the De; Passed. ‘The Senate joint reao.ation In relation to coast ue fences was rejerred to the Comunitee ou Military re. ‘the Senate bill to amend the charter of the Na- tional Capital Insurance Company was referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia, The Senate bill for the relief of Miss Emma Wil- son, of the State of Indiana, was referred to the committee on Foreign Affairs, ‘The Senate bill to authorize the Secretary of State to adjust the claim of Gustavus G. Cusiinan for oftice reat while commissioner under the Reciprocity treaty was passed. The Senate joint resolution to ulate the carriage of ngers 1D stcaiuships and vther vesscis Was referred to the Committee on Coiinerce. ‘The Senate bill vo reter the claiins oF Joseph Segar to the Court of Claims was taken up. Mr. BINGHAM, (rep.) Of Ohio, asked that the bill be ed. Mr. SCOFIELD, (rep.) of Pa., moved that it be re- ferred to the Committee on Claims, arguiag that the case of Segar should vot get the precedence of inou- sands of similar claims. Lf one were referred to the Court of Claims all suouid be, Mr. KELLEY, (rep.) of Pa., mentioned an analo- gous case, where tue property of E. A. Whippie, Naval Eng neer, Was taken and used or destroyed wiuie he was at sea m the public service, and || sugested that the bili should be amended by reter- ring that case also to the Court of Claims, Finally after cons.derable discussion the bill was referred to the Commiicee on Claims, ‘The Senate joint resolution respecting the provi- monal governments of Virginia and Texas was re- | ferred to the Reconstruction Commitiee. ‘The Speaker appointed Mr. Hatilton (of Florida) on the Comouttee on Revolutionary Claims, instead of Mr. Yrowbridge, excused. THE RESULTS OF THE ELECTION—REMARKS OF MR, Bl INE, OF MAINE. ‘The House then, at forty minutes past three, went | into Committee of the bf Mr. Hopkins in the | chair, and was addressed by Mr. Biaine, Mr. BLAINE, (rep.) Of Me., said:— Mr. CMAIRMAN—The three Presidential elections wich have resulted in victory to the republican | party are by far the most memorable and motaentous tie history of our country. — The issues at stake, | each time, have been grander, the contest on either side fercer, the verdict in each instance more de- | cisive and tignifcant than ever attended previous | struggles for the control of the national government. | In the lirst victory of 1860 slavery propaganaism re- | ceived its fai blow--the “American people deciding that at all bazaras the further spread of human serviinde into free territory sionid cease. This election was resisted by @ rebellions war, and the war led to the necessity of entirely abolishing the institution whose existence had been merely checked te | the expression of the popular wili. The election 1864 Curned upon the point oF continuing or disvontinuing the bigvdy contest which, up to that time, had with unabated fury and with enormous sacrifice of life and property. The vote of the people demanded the prosecution of the war until the rebeliiou sfould be suppr the eee rou; out the length and breadth of the land. Had the dict then rendered been enforced in the Cabinet | ax faithfully a4 it was in the field the Presi- dential struggle of 1868 would not have turned upon the issucs which actually entered into it, But the unexpected and un; ted course of the Executive, the revived ity of the South- ern rebellion and the manifold attacks on our national character and credit by the democratic ge, the victory of 1568 a8 absoluvely es- sential to conserve and preserve the fruite of our triamph as was the victory of 1864 to secure ¢ prosecution of the war to @ successful conciu- sion, And now that victory, complete and unsullied, passivns engend bill to notes tment of Agriculture. natu mmnary points that have adjudicated and permanently settied Ameri- can people in the election of General Grant to the ney. First The union of the States has been maintained and its perpetuity guaranteed by this election in @ sense and with a force that were never before | enunciated when the question ‘was involved. I do not mean to that the election of Mr. Seymour would have necessarily led to a sepa- | Fratton of the States, though there are not wanting | facts of great significa: u might weil justify such au inference and such a fear. But what ldo mean ie that the triviDph of the democrauc party | also its protection aud its panoply at home. the only remaining source of discontent is the exciu- sion of a small minority of white men froin the polls by reason of nen And here the evit lies in the disloyalty and not in the exclusion; and I know I am safe in saying that the exclusion wil be removed quite as rapidiy as the disloyalty disappears. And the disloyal white men of the South should be quite contented if they acquire suffrage a4 rapidly as-the loyal colored men of the whole country. we not hope that the patriotic conduct of the one class and the softening of unreasonable prejudice towards the other will enable the American people to hold the centennial celebration of our indepe! with no citizen of the republic disfranchised and with the sublime declaration that ‘all men are created equal’? accepted and reatized on the hundredth anniversary of its majestic utterance ? Third—The election of General Grant has settled the financial question. I donot mean that it has adjusted the details, or even foreshadowed the par- ticular measures by which the public debt is to be provided jor and its prompt payment assured, [ only mean that the American je have delibe- solemnly and emphatically recorded their de- in favor of an ¢ of their public forme. wHdly inflating, depreciating and ruining tneir cur- rency, in order \o'prematitely pay Ona, portion of the government bonds, they have declarea with equal emphasis in favor of lightening the public burdens by redur the interest on the national debt as promptly and as rapidly as it may be done with honor, ey have decidéd against all forms of repudiation, “open or covert, threatened or sus- pected,” and in favor of upholding the public faith and maivtaining the public honor Nay, they have gone one step furuer. The question of “in the utmost ing the public debt A accor to the letter and spirit of the contract” is no lon; to be made a subject of controversy or of doubt in the American Henceforth we may do wel! to remember that proud (faery furnished us in the Parliamentary history of Great Britain where, just preceding the eventful battle of Blenheim, the pr bility of Engtand’s defeat be- ing angrily suggested by one of the Com he was answered by the most brilliant man of the day in these eloquent and ever memorable words:— The question of Engiand’s ability to maintain her posit! should not bo discussed, is her owas. Parliament.“ Disewsion fmplies doubt, und doubt breeds disaster. Our business 19 to provide the’ means for the national defence, and let us tw our task. Fourth—With the election of Genera! Grant comes a higher standard of American citizenship, with more dignity and character to the name abroad and more assured liberty and security attaching to it at home. Our diplomacy will be rescued from the suuservient tone by which we have #0 often been humiliated in our own eyes and in the eyes of Europe, and the true position of the first nation of the eurt io rank and prestige will be asserted, not in the spirit of bra- vadp or with the mere arrogance oO! streugih, but with the conscious dignity which belongs to power and with the moderauion whieh t# the trus ornament of justice. And with this vindication of the nights and the rank of our citizensaip avroad Wil come ‘rhat provision of the federal constitution which solemnly guarantecs that “the citizens Of euch Stale shail be enutied to ali the privileges and inmunities of citizens tm the several states’ will not be « dead icter under the administration of veneral Grant, 46 it, in fact has been from the fow uon of the federal government down to this hour. Henceforward it i to be practi ca'ly enforced ihroaghou i our vorders, and every citizen of the republic, hinsell Observant of the law and ofthe rights of others, shall go where it m, Diease him and speak as he may sev fit, unawed by mobs, unarmed by iaurderers, anwenaced in life, limb or estate. With these four cardinal points settled by the peo- ple General Grant's adiuioistration will have high vantage ground from the day of its invuguratioa. Its responsibilities will indeed be great, its power wll be large, t's opportunities wil! be splendid: and to mect them all we have a true and tried man, who adds to his other fv elements of strength tiat of periect trust and Confidence on the part of the peo- ple. And to reassure ourselves of ms executive character—if reassurance were necessary—let ue remember that great military leaders have uniformly eS the wisest, @rmest and best of civil rulers. romwell, William IL, Charles XI, Frederte of Prussia, are not More conspicuous instances in monarchical go' ments than Washington, Jack- son and Taylor have proved in ourown. Whatever, therefore, may lie belore us in the untrodden and a jouded path of the future, whetner it be anclal embarrassment or domestic trouble of another and more serious type, or misunderstand- ings with foreign nations, or the extension of our flag and our sovereignty over insular or continental ons, north or south, that fate or fortune iully offer to our ambition, let us believe with all confidence that General Graat’s adininistra- tion will meet every exigency with the courage, the ability and the conscience which American nation- ality aod Christian civilization demand. BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS. The commitiee rose and the speaker resumed the ts Mr. Cosvny, (rep.) of Ind., introduced a bill to amend the iternal revenue s taxing Whiskey, Referred to tue Committee of Ways and Means. Mr. BUTLER, (rep.) of Mass., introduced @ bill an additional judicial district in Tennessee, Referred to the Judiciary Committee. IN@gRSOLL, (rep.) Of Iil., introduced @ bill sup- the Ni . Referred - the omanttee on Deuking and Currency, poses to remove the limitation on the aggregate of national bank circulation, and leave it nurestricted; to authorize the issue of four per cent gold interest bonds, and to require the subetitution of those for the six per cont bonds kept by tie national banks on deposit to guarantee their currency. Mr. JULPAN, (rep.) of Ind., offered a resotation for the introduction of @ rotary blower to taprove the ventliation of tue hall, Referred to the Committe on Ventilation. Mr. STEWART, (dem.) of N. Y., introduced a bill to reorganize and fncrease the eficiency of the Medical Department‘of the Navy. Referred to the Commit tee on Naval affairs, - ‘The House thea, at four o'clock, adjourned untit Mouday next. ,