The New York Herald Newspaper, June 26, 1869, Page 4

4 “THE SCAFFOLD. Execution of Hiram Miller, in Vermont. Particulars of the Crime, Trial and Conviction. Condition and Appearance of the : Condemned. HE DIES PROTESTING HIS INNOCENCE. Winpsor, Vt., June 25, 1869. Hiram Miller, convicted of committing a double murder in Ascutneyville, ia this (Windsor) county, on the 2id of July, 1867, was executed to-day in the State Prison at this place in accordance with the sentence of the court before which he was tried. ‘The particulars of the bloody and revolting deeds for which this man has been launched from the gal- lows into another world, dark and eternal, are so appalling in their character, exceeding, as they do, any in the annals of crime in Vermont since the days when the whoops of tne maddened savage ‘mingled with the shrieks and cries of their scalped aud butchered victims and reverberated among its green hills, that they, though repeated, will be of spectai interest on this occasion in connection with an account of the awful but deserved doom of their author. THE SCENE OF THE TRAGEDY AND THE VICTIMS. The tartling tragedy was a neat and substant house, standing on one of the tier of magnificent fa which border the Connecticut The farm lies nearly one mile south of Ascut- mal village im the town of Weathe: river. neyvile, a field, Which 1s in the southeastern portion of Wind- sor county. Ascuineyville lies nearly opposite and about one nile distant from the Vermont Central Ratiroad, which at that point follows down on the New Hampshire side, Tus pleasant and comfortable home was owned by an in- ut, industrious and respected farmer, named Joshua G. Gowing, who occupied it w.th his famiiy, of his wife, Mrs. Abigail Gowing, and two children, a son and daughter, just entering their teens. Gowing wasa@ native of an adjoining town, where he lived til about ten years previous to his untimely death, when he purchased tue farm described and moved to the same with his Mr. Gowing and his wite were nearly equal 1n their respective ages, boih being aoout Mfty-five. They were Lota plain people, M Gowing being the better looking of the two, They had both been hard workers, slaves to toil all their ds Their hands were calloused by manual labor and their faces bore the marks of care and increasing age. Though by their economy and imdustry they had accumulated quite a large estate, they still loved to toil. Among their relatives and friends they were loved and es- teemed for their Kindly, sympathetic, hospitable and peaceful natures. Being home people, their circle of acquaintance was not wide, but there was not one among the number who ever had a just cause to breathe against them an unnetghborly complaint. By the marvellous d tion of a mysterious Providence these two good people were doomed, one quiet summer's night, when wrapped tn refresh- ing sleep, to fail the victums of a swift and fearful death, under the powerful blows of a sharp, heavy axe, in the hands of an assassin, and thus leave their two cl ‘ea to the cold neglect of orphanage. MILLER'S FIRST APY AND HIS SECOND EN- iT TO MR. GOWING, Under the name of Henry Wilson, Miller first came to Mr. Gowing’s during the mmer of 1866, a stranger in pursuit of employme Being tn need of help on lis farm Mr. Gowing employed Miler for a limited time. Miller was faithful to his employer, and at the expiration of the time agreed upon pens was duly paid for his services and he took ms departure. Ths was the last Mr. Gowing saw of Miller til April of the year following, when, unexpected ly, he returned with lus valise of clothe’ and asked for employment again. Remembering Milier’s good ser- vice the r previous Mr. ‘Gowing readily engaged him to work for him seven months fora sum per month mutually agreeable toemployerandemployé. Accord- ingly Miller commenced work, still uoder the name %& of Henry Wilson, as before. He displayed his former faithfajness, and being a robust, strong man, he per- formed the burden of the farm work. By his com- mendable demeanor and apparent concern for the prosperity of Mr. Gowing’s aifairs he seems to have ‘won the latter's confidence, so that he was the trusted receiver of money of his private business matters. Among these Mr. Gowing revealed to him his good fort in possessing about $500 in United States bonds, and also wold him h kept them in his house, being a drawer of a bureau in the parlor. je in all the innocent pride of the conscious of having no enemtes, irrod Miller's cupidity and aroused feare ES ET = bridge spahs a deep ahd precipitous ravine, through which runs a small tributary of the Connecticut, and aiso the only road leading from Ascutneyville to Claremont, N. H., and ia the only bridge across the Connecticut for several miles distant, north or south, Arriving at this bigh bridge at about two o'clock at night the train stopped and Muler alighted, As the train moved on Ritter groped his way down the steep pathway to the carriage road, into which he turned towards Ascutneyviite. MILLER APPROACHES MR. GOWING'S HOUSE AND PERPRTRATES THE DEED, Through the dark, long, covered bridge Miller | passed, Then, leaving the road, he proceeded Straight to Mr. Gowing’s house, across the flelds of corn and grass, and thus saved a mach longer walk | by the common route. Reaching the house tn less thirty minutes probably after leaving the train, he provided himself wath the weapons to aid in adcompiisting his purpose, 4 sled stake, four feet in length, made of heavy lexor ou, and a common wi se, sharp aiid heavy, being sclecied, the assassin and would-be murderer. mounting the piazza in front of the house, stepped to the outside door opening Into the kitchen with the fearful weapons in tis hands by whien ne hoped to lay hold of the paltry sum of $500, and shouted to Mr. Gowing, As Mr. Gowing and his wile aud daughter were sleeping in the turd room beyond the kitchen tt is very likely Miller called sev- | eral times before bis voice was heard. At length Mr. Gowing awoke, and finding tua? some one was at the door exciaimed, “Who's there?” to which Muller responded, “Hitchock; the cows are in your corn.” ‘The girl, who slept in a trundle bed, woke a; with her father, and by this lime Mrs. Gowing lad also become awakened. Hitchcock was the name of Mr. Gowing’s nearest neighbor, whom he was expecting would come to assist him ta mewing that morniug. So on hearing his announcement of Miller, without perhaps dis- covering the voice, Mr. Gowing fastily began dress- dig himself and remarked to his wife that she had better do so, Having put on his pantaloons and vest he walked from his bearoom tirough the dining room into the Kitchen, Whether Miller bad in the meantime stepped within the dvor, which was tre- quentiy left unlocked both night and day, or whether Mr. Gowing on reaching the door opened the same and admitted him does not appear. With- ik & moment after Mr. Gowing had entered the kitchen there w: a sudden and terrtiic noise as of some one straggiing and pulling, and then all uiet, Without even a cry ora groan, ‘Ths “ra 3 the giri termed it, in the’ dark house territied her, and tn her fight she drew tie tothes over her head, as if they might protect und remuined motionle: The disturbance hen, the terrified giri heard Muler groping tus way through the dtamg room to- wards the pe Mrs, Gowing, on hearing the horrible noise in the kitchen, proba vly lose the power eraace, as uad not spoxen a word, but on hearing foo'steps approaching her bed she cried out, “Who be youy? Miller replied by repeating her words, “Who be your’? Then the poor girl, in the Relght of her awlui Cerror, heard a jarriug, muted sound, as of some one pouncing on her mother’s bed, and tia moment more all was silent agam. ‘bar the darkuess of might, witu uo eye upon me that 13 ail ius, tie damnavie ched his two defeuceless vi s without a shriek, a ery of distress or asingie audible groan us Upon Lis ears, But an ear had heard him Wiuieh, though it was that of a little gurl hidden in the bedelotnes and alimost seuseless {rom a terror the cannot be descrived, was nevertheless as though the whole world had stood by and watched him. 1t was the terror of the chita which saved ner jife and wich seut Muller to the gallows. Vor ff he naa kKuown that she Sey ceeeny hit and heard ali iis INeveme: Wud pave doubtless glared the . Rut all th Retina Was oily Villain’s method of clearing the way to his ug the $600 which he coveted. The : wach ‘ollowed the nor t Mrs. Gowing’s bed Was soon broken by Miller's coumenciag to feel Lis Presently he waiked up stairs. aubers tae son of Mr. Gowing was boy Was a aumb imbecile, and though tate of er pj tae In one o! the © sleeping. he migat have beard the noise of Miller’s moyements an the house, le had not the understanding to fear any hari, nor the organ of speech whereby to ex- press What lie saw and heard. Malier knew this, and provaply, aiter assuring himself tuat there was no one eise in tue house bul the boy aad air (tae latter of whom le also considered jacking somewhat in understanding), he went to work ransacking the house ior Mr. Gowmg’s money. Aiter remaming Up stitirs sowe Tune Le came down, and the giri next heard 4im in the parior making a loud nowe. ‘Then he came into the bedroom ugain and suoved tie trundle bed, coutaining the trembling but si teal witness, under the bed, the same as it Was disposed of during the daytime. 3 Was evi- deutly doue iu order to opea a cioset door, which fe position of tke trundie bed had prevented his doing. low long Mailer continued bis search about the house 1s nol KuOWR. UL he ialed to fad the object of all his efor ud desires. Ar. Gowing had, soon after Mille departure, removed Nis money from tue bureau in the parlor and carefully secreted tt Where no Oue but ais daughter was thea iets to reveai. wat Miller’s feeitugs Were on sceme that he was folledt ta lus purpose, aad op thinking of what he Dad done tu gaia that wiici he could nol, can doubtless ouly be compared to those Which agi tated his bose when mounting the seaitoid, te leit the house to Wash away the ‘blood stains upon his clothes aud make a futile effort tw elude devee- Hon aud escape the punisameut which is con- science told him he merited. DISCOVERY OF WHAT HAD HADPE! After the ho Was quiet, and alter Apparition leit che imtud of the girl, she drop- ped to sleep again and did not see the lfe.ess of her parenis till alter the sua was ap, ne ant discovered Lue butcuery, awoxe her. Hitchcock, the neighbor whose name din arousing Mr. Gowing, Was r the tate of ais ueigubors and benold the appalling spectacie as their vodtes laid in the blood Howing ivom tueir gaping Wounds. Mr. Hitchcock came to Mr. Gowlng'’s louse son alter SIX o’Clu¢k in the morning to begin his day’s work. Noiiclug that a remarkabie silence prevatied avout the house and also that the cows were sui standing jo the yard unmilked, he thought something was wrong. Le ingiy stepped upon the piazza, and, opening (ue door ieading tuto the kitchea, was in tie act of entering the same when his eye saw the dead and mangled body of Mr, Gowlug lyiug on the floor immeat at lis feel. Stricken wita horror Ved aud ghastly sight: Mr. him at the taought of enter so he turned away and hastened en iler the first to discov m A frends and was apd the fail horror of the awiul deed was unfolded to their view. Mr. Gowing was found to have received turee wounds on lis head, ciier of which was sui- ficent to have caused d On wie back of lus tead Was a black and bloody bruise, aud also asim t ludicating tuat a huge club . 41 Was split peu crosswise from ear wo The raw and fresa wound Was spread wh 2 and the brains and blood were still had been w the slum temon in nis heart waich A ail the blood, ror aud unspeakable misery which fo lowe MiLd SUPREN DEPARTI Wis PURPC At abont the close of feigned to be affected with a breach of the abdomen yhich antitted him for farther work, and requested Mr. Gow ing to release him from his contract and pay him for the time that he bad worked, tnat he might return to his home, which he sald was in the nortn- ern part of Vermont. Though it was some- thing of a loss to Mr. Gowing to release Miller he nevertheless did 80, aud the latter on re- ceiving his wages went on iis way. But Miller's = pretendea men to work and his expressed desire to return home were mere pre- texts by which he could go to some other place to study upon the heinous purpose which it ts pre- sumed he had then almost resolved upon. The con- summation of this iidden purpose was doubtiess the restless and absorbing subject of his mind. Though be actually had a wile and child in Richford, Ver. mont, @ town on the Canada line, and though he had a slight rupture, for which he wore a truss, he took the cars for Barton, Vermont, a town one hun- dred miies north of Ascutneyville, on the Passump- sic Kailroad, and twenty-five miles south of where his wile resided. Arriving at Barton ne immediately let himseif to work for several montas for a farmer in that pl named Jennis, and on the following day commenced his duties, At tis place be dropped the name of Wil- son for his proper name, Miller, but re. tained his assumed Christian name, Henry, and thus was known as Henry Miller. What object he had in wearing @ false name either at this place or Ascutneyvilie remains without a definite explana- tion even now. It is, however, presumed that ix might have been mtending to abandon his wife and thus assumed an alias to cover his movements. HE GORS FORTH TO DO THE DEED. On Saturday, the 20th of July, having evidently Rene | upon @ plot by which he wee he could secure the prize for which he longed, and pemg fully resoived to attempt the undertaking, whatever the results might be, he suddenty left Mr. Jennis’ for a visit with Gis wife and kindred in Kichford, Pro- curing 4 horse and buggy at @ livery stable in Bar- ton village, he proceeded on his Way and arrived at his cestination during the following Sun- day. sides visiting his wife he called on on several of his relatives, and among them his wife's father, Mr. Shepard Randal. While chatting with him he «poke of buying a smail prece of grouna near by aud building a house upon it. At the sub- ject of paying for the land being suggested ne re- marked, “I have $000 that i can lay my hands on at any time Mr. Suepard, who knew Mier'’s want of capacity in obtaluing money, replied in a doubt. ing manner, “filram, when you get $590 let me count it.” “When L come next Une | will have it, as sare as God ‘an air of confidence, responded Milier, wit At an extremely late hour on the same Sunday night he took leave of his wife and child, and ieft Kichford for Barton, Arriving at the latter piace early on Monday morning he went to his em- ployer, Mr, Jennis, and told him that he bad been to woe lis wife, with Whom he found a letter for him- self from his lawyer in Weathersfield, stating that he (the lawyer) had cojlected an amount of money due tim (Miller) in that place, which he would for- ‘Ward to his address if he (Miller) would send him eight dollars, the amount of his fees. Though Mr. dennis thought it strange thatthe lawy did not deduct his commission from the sum collected, yet as the amount which Miller desired was due him for vices, Mr. Jenni paid him as requested, Mil- iving the money, started oif, apparently 2 post oiflce, to forward the money, bat he returned. Going toa saloon in the village, Miler bougit ® small botie of whiskey, and then proceeded to the railroad deg where he loitered about revolving in his mind the perpetration of a crime Which before the same hour ol tie next day would horrity tie whole land. At seven o'clock in the evening, on the arrival cars for White River took the train. = Re the above piace he took the cars on the Vermont Central for Ascutneyville, There Deine no depot at that piace the trains stop at what 1s calied the High Bridge for passengers wo alight whose destination Bappens Ww ve the village mentioned. This high st | found nearly consumed. oozing out (rom among the broken bones on each side o1 the deep trench, upon the floor, in the door, just in range with the gash, Was a deep cul the widin of Wwe axe blade, showing tuat the axe had been struck with such force through the head that it buried the bit in tae board and us pulled out agam. In every direction were streams of blood streaking across the fluor frou the deep pool which surrounued the head. Tie body was aressed im a pair of pantaioons, a vest and shirt. Near by, at (he side of the stove, lay Mr. Gowing’s shoes and stockings, Marks and tracks of blood across tue floor attracted the horrified spectators through the aining reom into the apartment where tue lamuiy slept. Here the gory couch and the almost naked and lifeless body of Mrs. Gowiug, cut aud bruised, presented a scene stil more sickening and terriilyioy, if possiple, than that whitch wey had just leit. The body was lying in an angular position und nearly crosswise of the bed, with Lue head on the front side. By its side Was @ night dress, as if 1t had been taken Oi by the murdered woman while sittmg up in bed, prepara- tory to dressing herself ; nothing but an under gar- ment, bespattered and sta:ncd with blood, covered the nakedness of tne body. On the head of the corpse were three fatal wounds, tue same 43 in tue rst case. Extending from tbe upper lip of the mouth to the eve Was @ deep gash, reaching back to throat and base of the brain. This wound would admit the whole lade of an axe up to ite eye. Another gash, nearly a3 ba xtend- eu across the side of the face from about the middle of te nose towards the ear, The biood had fowed so profusely trom these wounds as to completely saturate the two thick straw and featuer beds, aud was dripping from tae lower side of the bottom one. The remaining Wound was @ severe bruise in front 4 above the ear, produced by the heavy stake. The hair was drenched with biood. Spots and stains of biood defaced the entire bed, and ligh up on the wall adjacent to the bed were sprinkies of blood which were thrown by the blowsof the axe. Atter hastily examining the dead bodies, Where are the children’ and Who was the assassin that nad done all this’ were the next inquiries which directed the movements of Mr. Hitchcock aad lis companions. The trandie bed was drawn out and tuere the orphan daughter was discovered, unharmed and just awakentog from her morning nap. The boy was then found sate and well. fhe latter, on being shown What had befallen lis parents, revealed unmistakable signs of alarm and grief to fis idiotic motions and jooks. Bat the daughter was overwhelmed in sor- row, Which found expression in tears and in deep and convulsive sobs. in reply to the questions If she Knew who had committed the murders, she promptly said, “Our tured man Henry Wilson.” “He came here last night and vold father the cows were in the corn.’ Sie then described the noise she had heard in the kitchen and at the bed of ber mother, and how Miller had moved around the i how he put her bed under her mother's, otver incidents related subs tandally above, In the meantime the fact of the assassination was spreading like an rm of fire from neighbor to neighbor aL J reached Ascutney vii avery one hurried to the house to behold the scene, The house, Which smetied of blood and death in every apartment, was thoroughly examined. in nearly every room, closet and bureau were found traces of the assassin. The heavy stake was found on the floor in the dining room, with one end beameared with blood and hair sticking to the same. The bureau in the parlor was cut and broken sod two of 118 drawers entirely shattered. Under @ pile of clothes which had been pulled from the bureau Mr. Gowing’s axe was found, covered with biood from end to end. The blade resembled that of @ meataxe after being strick into bloody meat. jJothes closet# and bandboxes up stairs were disarranged, and clothes were strewn about the or, Inthe kitchen a looking glass was found to missing. A candle, which had been only partly burned when the girl and her parents retired, wi On stepping out or the back door leading to the tab containing the water | for the house there were tracks of a man’s boots the-wet ground aroand the tub, and marks of blood here and there, On the edge of the tub was a mark a8 Wuouga some One had placed his boot agatmst It to wash it. On the tower part of one of the doors of * the house were distinct imprints from nails in some one's boots. ‘These marks and tracks of the murderer were al: carefully noted and preserved. The bonds and money which the murderer in his search had overlooked were found uncouched where they had been secreted—within the tucking of the lower bed. CORONER'S {NQUEST—FORTUNATE CAPTURE OF MIL- us LER, It being necessary to hold an Laqnest upon the bodies before they ‘were disturbed, Justice Walter Newel ordered a jury summoned as speedily a3 pos- stble. After duly examining the case and the wit- nesses, of which Mr. Gowiug’s daughter was the ppinolpal. the jury rendered a verdict that Mc. and irs. Gowing had come to their death by blows trons an axe and sled stake in the Lauds of Henry Wilsou. Immediateiy on the conclusion of the inquest, Which Was between seven and eight A, M., constable Heary S. Bowen was despatched to Windsor, which is tive miles norch, with papers for the arrest of Wilson, as Iwill call him for the present, and with orders to telegraph to all leading points a description of the fugitive, and directions to arrest Lim should he make his appearance, Reaching Windsor about half-past eight the constable hastened to the telegraph, but a3 the operator was notin he walked back to tue busi- ness portion of the village to wait till the operator came, He had gone but a short distance when, meeting Mr. Daniel Vavis, a farmer residing about half way between Ascuwmeyville and Windsor, the officer related what had bappened and also the ob- ject of lis conung to town. On hearing the bloody story Mr. Davis told the officer that he had just brought a man to the village whom he had overtaken on his way coming up. Believing that this was te man he Was in quest of the officer begun at once to look around fur him, He had scarcely turned his head when he espied Wusou, whom he had often betore, Walking siowly down Main street seve- rai rods distant, So the odicer immediately started for him at a rapd pace, and, overiaking hiin, &e- costed him. Wilson looked around with Jue diferent curiosity at being addressed, and on seeing Mr. Bowen, whom he knew was an ofticer, he replied, ‘Good morning, Mr, Bowen.”’ The officer responded in a familiar manner, and then began to converse with Wilson respecting what he was dving aud where > had come trom, Wit no apparent alarm or suspicion of what Mr, Bow- en’s object was, Wilson replied to each question, saying he had just come duwno on the traia nat morning; that he had commenced worklug for a neighbor of Mr. Bowen, named ileury Weston, who lived two miles norui of Ascuimeyville, on the road to Windsor, but that he was in pain, and so he was compelled to stop work and come to town tor & truss, By some feigned purpose the oficer induced Wilson to walk back to a store with him, so that if he should resist an ar- rest assistance would be at hand. On reaching the Store Wiison voluntarily walked in and sat down in a chair by the doorway. At this instant, as the offi- cer had aiso stepped 1u the door, some one of the vil- jagers came up and excitedly ed the officer if he had “got any clue to the murderer?” Wilson upon hearing this, without any perceptible astonishment, inquired, “Who's been murdered?” ‘The oflicer looked Wilson straight in the eye and replied, “Mr. and Mrs, Gowing, aud { am going to arrest you for the murder.” Though this announcement fell like a thunderbolt upon the bystauders who heard it, yet Wusoa, with perfect composure, sat in his chair, said not a word and moved not a muscle unnata- raily. ‘fhe warrant was then read to tun and hand- cuits were placed upon him without causing scarcely aiook aud not 2 word of ovjection, There being some delay before the oftiver started for Ascutney: viile with tus prisoner, the latter remamed in the store, the central object of the agitated spectators, ‘To several questions about his cuit or innocence he made a singie reply—‘“I think or be- heve | am not guity of that deed.” Soon after nine A. M, the officer returned to Ascutney ville with his prisoner, Where he Couiined him in a suitable room and proceeded to make preparations for his preliminary trial. . pd brief space of time within which the murderer was captured after his deeds had been discovered, aud the entire absence of ditficulty atteading iis arrest and safe con- tinement, both surprised and gratified the inhabi- tants, who already had become wild with excitement over the tragedy which had bui a few hours before transpired in their uudst PRELIMINARY TRIAL—IMPORTANT LER COMMITTED. Not succeeding in commencing the trial of the ac- cused on the day of his arrest (!uesday), he was lodged for safe keeping in the prison at Windsor that night, and the uext day he was returacd to As- Ville and duly arraigned before Justice John Spattord, of that place. tor trial. In consequence of the throug of spectators the court was held in the village cure’. An opportune meident occurred jusias the examination was betag commenced, by which the prisone: yrrect name Drst came to the knowledge of the Court and the peopie of the vicin- ity, who had uever for a moment supposed that “itenry Wiison” was an assumed name. Among the people tn atrendance was a gentieman from Nuchford, Vt., te home of the prisoner, who, be- ing in Windsor at the time, tad come down with others to lear the trial, ‘fils gentleman had just entered the chureh and was crowding his for @ view of the prisoner, At lust getting a view of him the same moduent that the prosecuung attor- ney rose to stute the case, he remarked, “i know iim; that is Hiram Miller, o¢ Kichtord, Vermont.” the statement of the gentiemanu was announced to the Court, when the name of Henry Wilson was ordered to be erased in the official papers and that of Hiram Miller substituted. ‘Tne stripping off or this mask had no etfect on the customary composure of the accured. The trial proceeded, and by @egrees ali the incidents, circumsiances and discoveries re- lating to the assassination and the movements of the accused were prescated by the attorney for the State. On the second day ot the Uial (¢hursday) the funeral of (ie murdered victims occurred, ‘The ex- amination was suspeuded for the short time ocen- pied by the above services. The largest concourse of people which ever assembled m= Ascuineyvilie parucipated im the solemn and doubly impressive ceremonies of this burial. In order that the vast as- semblage might all have an opportunity of seeing the muruerer of the deceased It was proposed to tie oiticer in charge of Miller that he brmg hun out, and wiule the corpses were being viewed at the close of the services march him around past the cofias and atiow him also to see the work of is hands. Ac- cordingly the oflcer suggested to Miller that he mught go with them and se # bodies if he desired. But Miller declined, saying that he could never look on dead people, und that when his father died he avoided seeing his corpse. Thus is a specimen of of his € tensions aud tabricauions. At the clo: rd day of the trial the wit- ses for the prosecution had all beea examined. ler proceeded, throagh his attorney, to make lis defence. He introduced only one or two witnesses, who testified to nothing which cleared away aay of the donbts or tended to weaken the conclusive and chaching evidence of the prosecution. The case was a clear one Lo the Justice and to the spectators, who had eageriy’ followed the evidence. Every one knew what the decision of the Justice would be, The con- clusion of the case was soon arrived at, when the Justice committed the prisoner to jatl to await a final triat before tie County Court on the charge of mur- der in the frst degree. ‘The profouad siience which had prevailed through- out the church while the Justice was giving tis de- cision Was at the conclusion instantly broken. on every hand men were ueard discussing a speedy upon tue murderer and thus avoid the “law's delay.’ “Lynch him’? was the cry, aad some one Was sent for a rope. The Officers of the jaw endeavored to preserve quiet and to silence those Wino were impatient for vengeance, but they could not. Therefore, in order to save the prisoner from a tate which he doubtless merited, the officers 43 QUICK a8 possible procured a carriage, placed the prisoner in it, handcuted lim and were about start- ing off, Wien those Wav bad gone for the rope to lyneh Miller returned and, surrounding the car- riage, attempted to throw the noose over the prisoner's head, that they, might drag him to luis execution, Fortunatery the noose fell short of Miller's bead, and tn the contusion and commotion the horses were given the rein and the carriage, with the officers and prisoner, quickly moved out of the reacn of the would-be lynchmen, who were not a little enraged at their disappointment. As the Windsor county jatl, located at Woodstock, had lately been ed by fire, Miller was sent to Rat- land anc confined in that jail. This jati being over- filled with prisoners, it was found necessary to con- fine Miller in the dungeon. Miller has oiven com- plained of his fearful quarters at Rutland. besides bemg periectly dark the dungeon was without a floor, and the ground was wet aod muddy much of the time, thus maxing it anything bal a decent Notwithstanding this, however, Mider sus- nlinement INCLIDENTS—MiL- THE PINAL TRIAL AND SENTENCE. The Windsor County Court, Judge Barret prestd- ing, convened at Woodstock oa June 9, 1468. On tae calling of the case of the State vs. Miler the lat- ter promptly appeared for trial. Miller being with- out means, the Suate, a8 1 such cases, furnished bim counse. The same evidence iu the main as that which was presented at the magistrate’s tr introduced by the State Attorney at Woodstoc! aiso some additional circumstantial evidence tained from witnesses summoned from Kic Barton, who had been cognizant of Mile! ments previous to his committing the murder. Mil- ior’s reiatives and iriends rendered lilin no assisi- ance imauy form. The trial was concluded on the lish of July, the jury returning # verdict of guilty, after having beeu in consultation about one hour, ‘The Judge then pronounced the sentence, condem- ing the prisoner to be hanged, and to solitary con- Hnement util the day of his execution, which we Governor fixed tor w-day, THE PRISONER IN HIS CORLL Miller was tiumediately conveyed to the State Prison, at Windsor, where he remained until ins ex ecution. Soon after his imprisonment he commenced reading the Bible, aud up Wo his execution le pured over its Sacred pages a large portion of each day. He also read otier books lurnished him from the prison library. He would Converse freely withevery one Who was admitted to see him. With ali whom he conversed, except the chaplain, a guard was al- ways present. He was never taken from his cell ex- cept on Saturdays, when he was removed to be shaved, He Was aiways orderly and obedient, and hence possessed the lavor of the officers havin charge of him. Being uneducated, lie could not use apen, and when he first entered his cell he read very incorrectly; but he soon learned to read rapidiy and well. ‘The chaplain always wrote his communi- cations to his wife. From his wife and fathers in-law he received their farewell letters but & few days before his death. When conversing about is fate he would sometimes revert to his trial and complain bitterly of the Witnesses, whom he charged with “iying,”? At no time did he ever express a dread or fear of his exectition, but, on the contrary, often wished that was to-morrow.” As the day proached for execution the chaplain length- ed his interviews with the prisoner, and atrove to impress upon his mind the teachings of the Bibie respecting the repentance and confession of sina and Wwe feartul hervalter Which awaigd toss woo neglected that important duty. Though Miller would admit all these things, he would still declare his innocence of all that was charged against him, His feel of readiness for his tate were @ wonder to himself, and he could only Ses it by thinking that it was God who supported . Miller's features were not such as would mark him as a murderer nor as a man inclined to d the rights of others or the laws of the land, With a high forehead, full, round blue eyes, a well cut nose, gracelully mouided lips, covering well formed teeth, with a full, frank face and dark brown hair, he was, on the whole, rather good looking. Inno reaper uniess it might be in his thick, short neck, he possess those characteristics nat ascribed to criminals, His height was five feet six inches and his wrens about 160 pounds, He was thirty- four years age, and was one of a family of eight children, all of which were natives of Richford, Vi., where the majority of hig_relatives now reside. He had been married twice. His first wife deserted him, His second wife, by whom he had @ son Row tive years of age, resides in Richford, CONDITION AND APPEARANCE OP THE PRISONER. During the last hours precediug the execution the appearance of the prisoner was painfully strange aud unnatural On Wednesday evening the chap- lain made his regalar visit, during which Miller selected a portion of Seripture from Second Timo- uy. fourth chapter, frou fourth to ninth verse, which he destred read at the ceremonies of the exe- cution. He retired at the usual hour, but his sleep was restless, and was broken by loua groans and sighs throughout the night, which showed he was agitated and distressed. He complained to the guard of being abused by a visi- tor during the day ious, who he toughs catechised him harshly respecting his guilt and fate, ‘This was the first indication of a serious disturbance of mind since hiscontinement. Stull, he expressed no dread or awe of what awaited him. On 'Thursaay afternoon his uneasiness and agitation continued, and he walked to and fro in his cell most of the tnne duriag the day, expressing a wish to see a citizen of Ascutneyville Who had shown sympathy for him during his trial. Accordingly the gentieman was sent for and had an hour’s interview with the prisoner; but the latter said nothing of importance, und averred his entire ignorance and innocence of the murder, om : In the afternoon the warden of the prison, fearing that Mitier’s restless night would disturb hus fellow convicts under solitary coutiuement tn the adjoining celis, removed him to another cell. Gradually his restlessness diniunished, and avout seven o’ciock in the evening, when the chaplain caine, he seemed to have recovered his calmness. The chaplain’s inter- view consisted of reading tue Scriptures and pray- ing. Miller conversed freely and expressed his entire readiness tor the coming ordeal. Sheriif Stimson having arrived to pertorm the execution, called on the prisover during the chaplin’s visit. Milier greeted him kindly and talked of huis end, with composure. The Sherif urged him to make @ confession, and Miller made his invariable reply, “You are asking too much of me. I have nothing to Say.” Seeing that the prisoner would not tree him- selr of his undoubted guilt the chaplain bade him good night between eight and nine o'clock and left. AS a precaution against any attempt at suicide a light Was placed at the ceil door and a guard was stationed lo watch every movement of the prisoner throughout the night. Miller being tond of smoking, tobacco and @ pipe were furnished him, and he smoked a long while, when he remarked that he very weil. He con- versed with the guard for several hours about his faith iu God and about his wife and little son, His emotions seemed stirred when talking of the latter, and the disgrace that would always fol- tow his chiid in consequence of his death on the gai- lows was his greatest regret. Though not excited, he did not seem ineciined to sleep till after midnigut, Wheu eating a lunch of a piece of cake during the uight and also this morning when eating his break- fast he was, strange to say, quite jocular, The vet- ter fare which had been given him during the day he said astonished his stomach and made tt ache. {u the morning, When a fly lt on his piate of food, “io ‘way dy, or Vl break your wing.’? At clock in the moraing he fell asieep, siept till when he arranged his dress and ate a hearty breagtast with good relish THS MORNING OF THE EXECUTION. Friday morning’s sun rose clear and bright. The execution was the theme at every breakfast table. ‘There Was not a regret expressed that Miller was to be executed, but the immediate presence of the tragical scene caused an unpicasant feeling. There beg no probability of but a very few being admit- ted to see the execution, only & small number of strangers were im town, what there were being Jargely from Ascutneyville, the scene of the murder, and Richford, Millers native town. Miller remained very quiet from the time he rose till about seven o'clock, when the scaifold was brought into the prison yard aud erec Though he could see nothing of what was being done, the notse of carpenters In adjusting and fastening the tumbers were sounds that he knew to be his own death knell and caused him to quake till, itis be- iteved by Chaplain Richford and the warden, his mind was partially deranged. He looked wiid, moved nervously about his cell and made strange expressions. About eight o’ciock the chaplain visited him, but in consequence of the Litver’s condition hie ha but a brief and uusatisfactory interview. ‘Those of Miller’s ac- quaimtances” from Richford were admitted wo the prisoner’s cell, but their visit was also un- Batisfacto Being left aloue he at length reciined on his bed, and afver tossing about some time fell asleep shortly atter ten o'clock, and, with we ex- ception of occasional restiess motion, slept till nearly nova, when he awoke and appeared rational aud calm. ‘A cup of tea was furnisned him, which he drank and seemed to enjoy. The chaplain soon alter entered the cell and rematned with the pris- oner during the remaiming hour, though there was still a strong belief by all that a confession would be made; but such thought had not entered Muller's mind. His acquaintances, who had attempted an interview before, were again admitted, and they with the chaplain besought the culprit, who knew that in a few siort moments he must stand beore his God, to contess his crime but it was in vain, “L have nothing to confess,” was Sull the response. MARCH TO THE SCAFFOLD. At length, us tue moment Of execution arew near, the iron door of the prison was swung open and those who were permutied to wituess tne spectacle were admitted and began to cluster around whe yal- jows. “he number admitted was avout tity, wo of whom were ladies—Mrs. K. F, Gowing, cousin of the murdered victims, and Mrs. Litchileld, of As- cuttmey ville. At four mimutes past one o'clock Shertif Stimson entered the ceil aua aunounced ty the prisoner that everything Was ia readiness, and led iim out, Mil- ler Was dressed in gray colored pants, with black coat and vest, The procession was then formed. Sheruy Stimson and the chaplam walked arm in arm, followed by tue prisoner between deputy sher- ifs Amoden aud Kimball, with the prison sur- geou, and tweive citizens arm in arm im the rear, In this manner the prisoner was escort- ed to the scaffold, which stood in the sou east corner of the prison yard. Upon reaching the scaffokt the spectators took seats, and tue sherin, cuaplain and deputy shertifs, with the prisoner, mounted the ladder and took positions on the plat form. Though a uttle paler than usual there was Was not a perceptible caange in Milier’s appear- auce, and with a step firm and strong he ascended the ladder and took & seat provided for hin on the piatiorm. The chaplaia then read the selections from the Bibie, as requested by Miller, together with others, after which he read in impressive tones a prayer to the judge of ali to have compassion and wercy on whe prisoaer’s soul, While the prayer was veing oifered Miller closed bis eyes and moved his lips as though repeat- ing the words of the chapiain. The Shertif tuen read the death warrant, during waica Miller iwoked steadily forward, with his eyes raised naturally and with scarcely a quiver about his lips. THE EXECUTION. The prisoner then stepped ou the drop under the rope and the vlack cap Was placed upon his head, after which the Suerif asked him ti he nad anything to say, to Which Milier, im a distinct voice replied, “Not anytuing, i think not. Ii there are any nere that 1 have wronged [| ask their forgiveness.” Depaty Sheri? Amsden tuen tghtly bound the hands, arms and legs of Miler and acjusted the noose around his neck, placing the knot under his lett ear, The chapiam ten stepped for- ward, grasped Miler’s hands and in a sviemn voice asked him tf he could say from his heart that he was innocent. Miller rejoined with emphasis, “Yes, sit; Lam. I have a biessed hope in Jesus.’ He then intimated he wished to say something more. ‘Lhe sheriff consented, and Milter, looking around on the spectators sat ‘There are men here who know they have lied about me, and they must look to God for mercy. my God. out, My strength isin Ihave not sti h tayseif; f am worn God hold me, 1 don’t know as I have any- I wish you aii good bye, gentie- ve chaplain and oMcers then bade Miller fare- and the cap was immediately drawn over his when the Sheriff, piacing hia foot apon the spring supporting the drop, said, “The time ts now come for the extreme penatty of the law to be exe- cuted on you, Hiram Miller, and may God have mercy on your soul.” Givinga et goed upon the spring the drop instantly fell, and Miller went down with @ jerk Which jarred the entire scat- fold, With only @ slight rebound of — the ly a8 the rope straightened and solutary motion at Uuntwisting of the rope ali was over, without & Single struggle or movement ol the limbs. ‘The distance from the crossbar to the ground was fourteen feet and the rope was seven Teet long trom the pulley over which it ran through the crossbar to the noose, thas allowing @ fall of seven feet and bringing the feet of the body within SIX inches of the ground. The drop fell at Fcovee fiiteen minutes past one. At the end of eleven Minutes the pulse ceased to beat, and the murderer was with his Maker. The tions of Miller having reqnested that the body be given to them for inter- ment in Brickford, it Was sent by rail this evening to that place, RAILROAD ON THR West Sipe or THR HupsoN River.—The Ail Argus states that the directors of the Albany and New \ork Railroad have resolved to prosecute the enterprise with the energy neces- sary to secure its early completion. A very perfect survey of the Fee has already been made, under the supervision of Mr. Wentz, one of the most accom planed civil engmeers in the country. If the citi- zons of Albany aud those residing along the line of the road will at once and without delay respond to the call for subscriptions fifty-two miles of the road, from Albany to Kingston, can be put under contract im the month of September next, and when com- pleted there will be a continuous line of railway on the west side of the river from Albany to Jersey tty. Efforts are being mace to convoke a general mect+ Ing of the Protestants in Austria and Liungary, (0 express their adtesion ty the mauliest receally pro- Claimed at Woyube NEW YORK HERALD, SATURDAY, JUNK 26, 1869.—TRIPLE SHEET. SINGULAR DEATH IN FIFTH STREET. A Man Dies from the Effects of Potson— y_ Examination Before Coroner Keenan. Singular and somewhat mysterious cases of death have been unusuatly frequent within the last few weeks, and anotuer was added to the tlst yesterday in the person of Mr. Frederick Wettergreen, a maa nearly sixty sixty years of age, who boarded in the family of Mr. Setterberg, No. 219 Fifth street. Mr. Wettergreen, a very worthy and amiable gentleman, Whose business was that of gilding, ailvering, bronz- ing and dipping for the last Phot had been in the employ of the Manhattanj8rass Works Company .cor- ner of Twenty-seventh street and First avenue. For twelve years previously he had been extensively engaged in businessjin Bridgeport, Conn., where he ‘amassed consideravie means, pen aia those in his debt had paid up, Unfortunately, however, Wettergreen, he could not collect his dues, and a year since he settled with hus Bridgeport patrons by taking their promissory notes, &c., and came to New York. Early in the week he went to Bridgeport to collect some money which had been promised hun, and returned on the boat Wednesday morning, reaching ius boarding house at one o'clock in the afternoon. Mr. Wettergreen samplained to Mrs, Setterberg of having no ae ite and feeling somewhat badly, but not in a manner to excite her fears. Soon afterwards he p: from the dining room tn the rear to the front parior, and soon afterwards proceeding to his bedroom, lay down. ‘This was not far from half-past one o'clock P. M., and an hour later a lady came tn and, notic- ing Mr. Wettergreen on the bed, remarked that he looked pale and unnatural. She immediately com- municated with Mrs. Setterberg, and on making an examination they found him to be dead. Coroner Keenao was subsequently notified, and on reaching the house Wooster Keach, M. D., made a post mortem examination on the body, and discovered slight dis- ease of the heart, but at first nothing was discovered to indicate the cause of death. A more thorough examination, however, reveaied the presence of Daraalo acid in pe antag: membrane of Seren inion of Dr. Beach deceased had taken a aeitarathe ata Aty of onda: ie two sons of deceased on beimg questioned concerning the death of their father stated that in the prosecution of his business he used quantities of prussic acid and otuer acids of @ very poisonous character, and believed he had inhaled of these poisons sufficient to cause death, Dr. Beach, however, thinks differently, and believes that a quantity of the poison was taken into the stomach at once. ‘The sons of deceased, who are intelligent and highly respectable appearing oung men, scout the idea that their father commit. d suicide; that he bad a peculiar aversion to that kind of death, and that he nad no good reason for terminating his own existence. It is stated that Mr. Wettergreen had no troubles Geol bs of a pecuniary nature, except that some persons whom he cherished as friends in his more prosperous days had turned their backs upon him when overtaken by adversity. This seemed to lumihate him and make a lasting impression on his mind. The stomach and contents of deceased were taken to Dr. Harris, of the Board of Heaita, and placed in the bands of Professor Chandler, chemist to the Health Board, tor analysis, which will be completed as speedily as possible. A jury has been em- panelled by Coroner Keenan, wito adjourned the tn- vestigation till Monday next, when probably the mystery at present surrounding the vase wiil be dis- pelied.’ As yet there seems to be no cause whatever Jor suspecting that poison had been admintstered to deceased by design. Mr, Wetcergreen, wio was a native of Copenhagen, Denmark, was universally respected and has left a large circle of frieads and acquaintances to lament his death. THE NEW MARKET ON FORTY-SECOND STREET. ‘The new building just finished and which will be opened to the public to-day, aud to be known as Croton Market, is situated on Forty-second street, near Fourth avenue, running through to Forty-third street, and has a frontage on both streets of 150 feet. ‘Ihe front on Forty-second street is two stories in height; the centre portion ts of brick, with a Man- sard roof on each side, which 1s agreeably broken up by dormer windows and ornameatal chimneys. Access to the various stands is obtained by three wide passages running through from street to street and intersected by trausverse passages. ‘Th centre passage 1s twelve feet wide and is to be used for car- riages and carts. Mach stand has a large refrige- rator, Which 1s at once both vrnamental and uselul, being made of ash and black walnut. The market room has an area of 30,000 square feet, divided up into 156 stands, which have been rented by the venders oi every kind of food required byaman. The stands for the sale of meat and fish have large marble siabs on top; and one enterpris- ing fishmonger has made his stand more attractive by the addition of a fountain and basin of goldfish. The principal feature in this market is the number and size ol the skyligits, Makiug it probably the best lighted buildimg in the city. At the same time it 1s also, without exception, the best ventilated; and itisthe intention of the proprictors to make the cleanest market in existence, arrangements having been made by which the whole area of flooring can be flooded aaily, numerous hydrants being provided for that purpose. ‘The second story on Forty-second street ts reached from the main floor by wide, eusy staircases on each side, beneath which are the entrances to the cellar. The cellar is fitted up with large refrigera- tors for the keeping Of meat in large quantities, aud a portion of the space is set apart lor vegetabies and cages for live poultry, 80 that they can be killed when required. The second story Hoor will be used for a restaurant, being admirabiy adapted to that purpose—the close proximity of the new depot soon Lo be erected for the New York and New Haven and New York and Harlem Railroads making it a very desirabie piace for such business. The room is weil lighted, with a high ceiling, making it an agreeabie room, 150x40 feet. Nothing has been omitted in the erection of this building that was necessary to make it what it is— a mode: market, TEMPLE B’NAI JESHUAUN, and Reform—Trouble Church. The question of ritualistic reform is beginning to breed dissension and trouble in this congregation, which has its temple on West Thirty-fourth street, between Broadway and Seventh avenue, with Rev. Dr. Vidaver for its rabbi. There was a meeting of the congregation last Sunday, the object being ihe election of a chasan, a reader, and the adoption of sundry changes of the ritual and the mouification of the present minhag, as recommended by @ joint committee of trustees and members. A report of the proceedings in the Jeirish Messenger, the organ of the orthodox branch of Judaism, mildly sketches the disorder as follows:— Assoon as the meeting was opened for business and the call read, Mr. P. J. Joachimsen moved that the order of the be reversed, the election of chasan taking place first, and he called for the previous question, thus cuiting off det bate at the outset, Alter considerable sparring. between Va. rious members a voto was taken on Mr, Joachimsen's mo- tion, and ft was deciared lost by a vote of 56 yeas and 65 nays, Pending a motion 10 go into Committee of the Whole, several membora addreased the meeting brietly, but in a manner in- dicating that the ground would closely contested, the members in favor of changes being determined to have the various questions brought before the meet- ing, those opposed being desirous of deferring dis- cussion and action, and citing portions of the law of the congregation ih support of their views. Finally, the chatrman, perceiving that It would be tmpossible to have any business transacted at a where the contending par- ties were 40 equally divided and where each was determined not to yield an inch to the other, declared that he deemed it advisable to adjourn the meeting, and some member having moved an adjournment, the motion was carried, and meeting was thus at an end, ‘The fact was that the uproar and turmoil became 80 great that the aid of the pelice was welcome; but even the appearance of the oficial ‘conservators of the peace” could not restore order. When the chairman, Mr. Jacov Becare, declared the meeting adjourned, he and his friends, constituting the re- form Bo withdrew. The resolute defenders of orthodoxy remained, deciared the adjournment out of order, reorganized and elected Kev. J. Kramer Chagan, or reader, unanimously. It mains to be seen whether the reformers will acqui- esce in this action or elect somebody else to the sume position. Orthodoxy in the THE POLICE BOARD. From the induction of Henry Smith as a membor of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners it bas Leen known that the Board proposed to make @ general redistribution of officers of the force, with @ view of increasing its eficiency. For weeks the Board, in secret session, has had the proposed changes under consideration, and, while ail agreed that very great changes were urgently demanded, they couid nos agree upon the captains and sergeants whom it is advisable to transier. Afier numerous conference had been had it was finally agreed tuat each Commissioner should have the naming of a fourth of the officers whose transfer tt was advisable to make. All the Commissioners, with the excep. tion of Mr. Manierre, united upon a list of transfers; but that gentleman at the last momont came in with an unlooked for tion. For some time he has had a personal interest in the elevation of acting Captain Burden to a full captaincy, and tt is under- stood he insists that he shall not consent to any transfers unless the other members of the Commission will vote for the promotion of the acting commander of the First precinct, Messrs. Bosworth and nan, who do not con- sider that gentieman fit for the position, declare that they will not consent to his promotion. Mr. Smith, while generally acting in fall harmony with his republican con/rere, it 1s understood, does not take sides in the matter one way or the other, and consequently there is a deadiock in the Board. Mr. Smith has bis own views to what sergeants should be elevated to the vacancies, and it is not un- likely that no transfers will be effected for some weeks unless the democratic Commissioners form a coalition with Commissioner Smith and sustain him tn the selection of his nominees, A NeW ENGLAND ELOPEMENT.—The quiet town of North Adams was startled on Monday by the an- nouncement that Wm. Potter had eloped with Mra. Edward Madison. Potter leaves a wife and four children; Mra. Madison a husband, but no children. Madison procured the services of deputy State con- atable Ferry, and starting in pursuit succeeded in overtaking the guilty parties in Albany, Potter fused Madison for his interference in the matter, and went on his way towards Cohoes, Madison brought his wife tome on Tuesday evening. Wotier ra" seventy dollars frou his employer, James tyileg. : | COLLEGE COMMENCEMENTS. The General Theological Seminary. The commencement of the above institution was heid yesterday at St. Peter’s church, in Twentieth street, and opened at ten A. M. with divine service. The commencement address to the graduating class was preached by Right Rev. A. N, Littlejohn, D. D., Bishop of Long Island, who ably defendea the sclence of Christian theology from the imputations made against it of want of truth and exactitude of the alleged variance of its dogmas and theories with natural laws, the pretended inaccuracy of ite premises and falsity of ita conclusions. He clearly vindicated its right to be called an exact science, and pointed out its place and relations and the in- fluences now at work tending to modify its form and attitude, The following is an extract from the address:— ° It will be your privilege to puraue the study of theology with some marked advantage in your fa- vor. The progress of events bas arranged its adver- saries in such distinct groups and fixed to them such definite badges that no more blows need be struck In the dark, no more time or strength wasted upon uncertain issues. ‘The itberty of the age has thrown all error into bold relief and given to every delusion a tongue. On all sides we witness the ac- tivity and agitation which truth covets as its pre- cious opportunity. It 1s moreover the marked intel- lectual peculiarity of our time that there ts no long tendency or cherished speculation of the human mind that affects belief that has been so far worked out as to justify an assured conviction of its logical and practicai results, Individualism, Ro- manism, Rationalism, Pantheism, Mysticism and Materialism are no longer alry figures wandering ag aforetime in half shadow. They hang before us ike well drawn portraits glowing with fresh tints of reality. ‘They hang too in the fine gallery of the common thought of the race. Besides we are privileged as never before, to study the law of re- actions in human opinions. One of the most in- structive of ail flelds of inquiry it so opeus that some of the most momentous of their reactions have well completed their cycles and it is now quite sure that cach and all will corroborate the lesson 80 often taught, so seldum heeded, tat no adverse wave trom the outer sea of sectarian thougat strikes the foundation of catholic truth, which its refluent path does not leave behind it some new treasure to be garnered in the storenouse of Christian evidence, Again, it is part of this law of reacttoa and opinion and life, that inteliectuat movements descend trom the few to the many, from the cloisters of thinkers to the busy multitude, while emotional movements embor the moral wants, and the spiritual wants of the soul begin with the many and ascend to the few. This generation has been largely occupied with the former, and there are evi- dent symptoms that the next generation will be swayed by the iatter; if so, then we shall see the great heart of mankind, so long fed on the chai? and husks of the wisdom of this world, break forth from the field of the alien, and with a cry of anguish, as from the lips of @ penitent prodigal, cast ttseif oa the wild flood of sorrowing want, upon the bosom of tne God and Saviour’s revelation, uttering the old confession, *Vather I have signed against iivaven and before Thee, and am no longer worthy tobe led Thy Son,’’ It 13 the strange Providence of the hour that the probability of such a reaction ex- actly coincides with the desire now evident in the vetter circles of theological inquiry to elimimate more and more trom church doctrine the speculative and, therefore, Variable element, and to return to ihe dogmatic simpticities, and, may we not hope, to e all conquering love ol Apostolic surance, One more sign of privilege and cheer for u, young friends, and [shall be done. ‘There are those who are never weary of asserting that not oly is there a guif now opened between tne re- sults of the best scientific thought and the creed of the church, but that it 1s constantly growing wider, 30 that all hope of bridging it ow well nigh lost. They who teil you this tell you an untruth; they bear false witness, whether through ignorance or malice the future will show. Here, then, is a hurried catalogue of the deeper questions of the hour aud a statement of their altitude toward the fandaimeatal verities of our religion; an altitude, as will be seea, of agree- meni, not contradiction, of the unity, not discord, of friendship, not hate Isha aaopt tue words of the most sober, accurate aud profound thinker of our time, Words uttered as a di the tree’ thought of the day:—“The supersttuom which say im ail Known phenomena the action of capricious deities Was not more urational than the superstition which sees tm them notmag bul the acuon of invariable laws. Men have been right and not wrong when they saw a the facts of nature the variability of adjudstment even more more surely than they saw the coustanc) They were right) and not wrong they identified these phenomena with ihe pie- nomena of mind, They were right when they regarded their own falsity o1 contrivance as the nearest and truest analogy by which the coasti- tution of the universe can be conceived and tts order understood, They were right when they regarded its arranzements as susceptinle of change, and when they jooked upon a change of wilt (waether or in man) as the eficient cause 01 other changes: without number and without end. It was weil to feel this by tue force of instinct; 1 Is better still to be sure in the Light of reason, It is an immense gain wo Know as we now do, that the resuit of logi- cal anaiysis does but confirin the testimony of con- sciousness and run parallel with the primeval tradi tions and beliefs, 1b is unspeakably comforting that whea we come to Close quarters with the vision of unvariable law, seated ou the throne of nature, we tind it a phantom and a dream amere nigit- mare of ill-digested thought and of God's great gut of speech abused. We are after ail what we thought o1 ives to be. Our treedom is @ reality, nol @ name. Our faculties have, in truth, tue reiations which they seem to have to tie economy of nacure. Man's action is a real and substantial jon in the constitution and course of things, ‘The laws of nature were not appointed by the Great Law Giver to baile his creatures in the spere of conduct, still less to confound them in the region of beltes. As parts of an order of things to be more than partly un- derstood they are presented under some difficulties, Which perplex the intellect * * * but on the whole they stand in harmonious relations with the luman spirit, ‘They come visibly frou one pervad- ing muna and express the authority of an enduring Kingdom.” * * © * My young brethren * * * let it be the business of your lives to study and to deliver unto men a sctence which 18 the living sap of all knowledge, a science sv trradiated with heavenly light and consciously symmetrical, built upon foundations wit are none other than the ptllars.of the throne of Go ‘The graduating class, numbering twenty-two, was presented to Bishop Potter, of New York, who pre- sided, and who delivered to them their dipiomas, The following are their names:—Kev, sidney b with, A. B, U. M., Michigan: Kev. Mortimer M. Ben- ton, Jr., Kentucky; Kev. Walter Delaiield, B. A,, St. 8. C., New Yor! Henry A. Dows, A. b., C. ew York; Augustus Edgerton, A. M., St. P. U., New York; J. Alexander Gilililan, Minnesota; Hdward C. Houghton, A. B., U. C., New York; Heary Emerson Hovey, B. a., I. C., Vonnecticut; Kev. Frederick 8. Hyde, New York; Peter A 3 aay, A. M., C. New York; Rev. John R. Joyner, North Carolini Reynold M, Kirby, A. B,, H. C., Western New York Charles 8. Knapp, A. B., H. C., New York; Edward Horatio Krans, 6. A.,"McG.'U,, Montreal; Robert Shaw Locke, Be A. St 3. O., New York; Stephen A. MeNulty, A. B, Kn. ©. New York; Joseph Richey, B. A. C., Leonard Kip Storra, M. A., T. €., Maine; Fran Horatio Stubbs, A. B., R. New Jersey; isaac Vaa Winkle, A. M., ©. 0, York; George Herbert ‘atson, A. B., H. New York; J. Bloomfield Wetherill, New York; Vlement J. Whipple, A. B., K. ., New York, ‘The morning prayer was read by the Rev. George B. Draper, D. D., Rev. Dr. Edson and Rev. Dr. she- ton, rst lesson was read by the Rev. Obaries R. Hale, M. A., and the second by the Rev. John P. ee A Bishop Potter, of New York, presided, as- sisted by the Bishops of Pittsburg and Long Island. ‘The sacraruent of communion was administered to the students and congregation. De La Salle Institute. ‘The annual examination of the puptis of the La Salle Institute, situated on the corner of Second street and Second avenue, under the saperintend- ence of Brother Steven, took place on Wednesday evening, 23d inst. Quite a large audience were assembled, prominent among whom we noticed the President of the Board of Education and several officers of the public schools in the district. The pupils acquitted them- seives in the most creditable manner, eliciting the hearty applause of the audience for their proficiency in the aifferent branches, declamation, ora. mit~ sic, &c. Brief addresses were made by Dr, O'Suilt- van, Mr. Larremore and Mr. John Mullally. ‘The first speaker, Dr. O'Sullivan, after some tnct- dental remarks ag to the result of the examination, Spoke of the excellent system pursued by the broth- er, which all present had in common with himself the evidence of judging. In this ‘connection he stated that there were upwards of four thousand boys in the parochial schools of this city who were being educated by the members of the community, and there was a fact of some tmportance connected with this which he was desirous of mentioning, a& there were several gentiemen present connected with and interested in public education, and this Was that the salaries received by the brothers did not exceed four hundred dollars a year each, Ever the brother principal got no more than this amount, although his position corresponded with that of the principal in & public school, whose annual salary amounts to two thousand five li doctor did not wish to mkke ag Bh compart when sons. neither did he wish to understood vocate any reduction in the pay of. - By uite the contrary; but the disp: the two he thought ought to be made known to the public. It 1s true, nowever, that the brothers do not perform this important work for mere recompen other and perhaps higher motives actuated the SU he thought it due that they should receive some adequate compensation in tion to the very important and arduous they performed. Un- fortunatel the pare churches are unabie to pay them any larger salaries. The Doctorinen inerodiced Mr. Larremoro, Pro- sident of the of Education, who delivered an able addr ee in high terms the brothers thelr pupils on the satisinetory resulta of their examination, stating also that it was the first time he ~ the opportunity of being present at tons, on ly followed, and spoke in laudatory terms of their syste of education and ls sucoesatul re- WUle ™